The 04-05-23 Edition of The Fort Bend Star

Stafford council meeting on revenue turns heated

By Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

In an hours-long and often combative meeting, Stafford City Council members on March 28 discussed ways the the city could generate new sources of revenues and other

sources of funding, which has been the subject of longstanding rifts within the small community. For decades, Stafford has relied almost entirely on sales taxes to fund its budget and provide city services. But that approach has long been a matter of controversy among the

city leaders and populace.

Last week's special meeting was held largely at the behest of Mayor Pro Tem Don Jones, who has made the city's budgeting the centerpiece of his electoral challenge to Mayor Cecil Willis in the May 6 municipal election. Council members Ken Mathew and

Wen Guerra are also challenging Willis, who favors sticking with the city's "zero property tax" policy. However, Jones arrived about 10 minutes into the meeting. During that period, Willis pointed out that the heads of the city's

Lighting the spark

Inaugural Sugar Land technology festival draws crowds

By Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Sugar Land Town Square was filled Saturday with the sights and sounds of robots, remote-controlled car battles, and people of all ages enjoying innovation of all kinds at the first-ever Innovation Spark Fest.

The event brought folks from all over the greater Houston region and beyond for a celebration of

By Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Fort Bend county commissioners are considering forming a Fort Bend County Public Facilities Corporation, a stand-alone entity that could sell bonds and take other actions to help fund development ini -

ideas and technology that was especially engaging for youngsters.

The featured event of the festival was a pitch competition, much like the one seen on such television programs such as "Shark Tank," in which teams of students from several Fort Bend ISD high schools pitched their ideas for products and services they created, all with a pro-social or environmental bent.

Before a team of judges comprised of several dig -

tiatives across the county. At their March 28 meeting, commissioners voted unanimously to engage the Houston law firm Hunton Andrews Kurth to prepare the initial feasibility documentation for the creation of the entity, which would have to be approved by a later vote by the court.

nitaries, including Sugar Land City Councilwoman Suzanne Whatley, the teams gave their polished presentations in the manner of budding entrepreneurs.

Elsewhere, folks tinkered at tables on their remotecontrolled robot cars to prepare for the threeringed bot competition.

Inside a large see-through plastic box, the combatants battled it out by crashing into each other, hoping to severely damage

Precinct 2 Commissioner Grady Prestage, who initiated the agenda item, said it grew out of his desire to address the needs of the Fresno community, particularly its older section.

"What brought this about is my interest in the redevelopment of the Fresno community," Prestage told

or at least disable their opponents.

Greg Clark and his daughter, Alyson, 10, came from Katy to participate. They have been competing with robot cars for a few months, and were undefeated in the several battles they had by Saturday afternoon.

"I like destruction, and I like working on robots," Alyson said.

In other parts of the plaza, booths featured representatives of several businesses offering goods

County Judge KP George and the rest of the court.

"The Fresno community has a lot of challenges. I'm talking about the old Fresno, not the planned communities, I'm talking about the older part."

Prestage said that one of

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and services related to technology and STEM fields, including companies that teach coding to young students, electronics gear, and others. Many children immersed themselves inside the MakerU, an old school bus repurposed as a makerspace by two retired schoolteachers from Spring. Back on the main stage, after a couple of hours

Sugar Land Town Square. (Photo by Ken Fountain)

HS Baseball: Needville making jump in 4A rankings

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

The Needville Blue Jays have been one of the state’s best teams in Class 4A so far this season, and they are continuing to move up the state rankings as a result.

Needville picked up another win last week, taking down Navasota by a score of 9-4 on March 28 to run their record to 16-2 overall and 6-0 in District 25-4A competition. As a result, the Blue Jays are now ranked 17th in the latest rankings released by Diamond Pro/ Texas High School Baseball.

Camden Babcock had two hits including a three-run triple for the Blue Jays in the win over Navasota, while Cade Ramirez also had a two-run double as part of a six-run sixth inning in Needville’s comeback victory.

With the win, the Blue Jays ran their winning streak to eight games, a run that includes wins over fellow top 25 teams in 24th-ranked Sealy (9-4) on March 21 and 25th-ranked Bellville (6-5) on March 25. The Blue Jays also have a win this season over 19th-ranked Huffman

Hargrave, a 7-4 victory in tournament play on March 3.

Elsewhere in Class 4A, Stafford has lost three straight games following losses to Columbia (14-0) on March 29 and Sweeny (8-3) on March 31. Rhueben Towne had a double and two RBIs for the Spartans (5-8, 3-2), who were slated to play Bay City on Tuesday night.

Class 5A

In the Class 5A ranks, the Fulshear Chargers kept their hold atop District 205A with a pair of wins over Terry last week, winning 105 on March 28 and 16-1 on March 31 to move to 15-6-1 and 6-0 in district play. Foster kept pace with a pair of wins over Willowridge last week, outscoring the Eagles by a combined 32-0 in the two wins to move up to 23rd in the most recent THSB rankings. Ridge Aventurado led the offensive attack with three hits and three RBIs for the Falcons (16-8, 5-1) in a 17-0 win on March 28, while Cooper Schwank struck out 12 batters in five innings of work on the mound. Coleman Briggs (four RBIs) and Schwank (HR, three RBIs) paced the offensive charge

in the Falcons’ 15-0 victory on March 31, and Chase Batten had 14 strikeouts on the mound while allowing just one hit.

Jayden Rodriguez had three hits – including two doubles – and two RBIs for Terry (11-10, 4-2) in the March 28 loss to Fulshear.

The Kempner Cougars split a pair of games with Randle last week, winning 20-9 against the Lions on March 28 before falling 3-2 on March 31. Five players had multiple RBIs for Kempner (5-14-1, 3-3) in the win on March 28, with Lorenzo Gonzales, Nik Hellriegel, and Brian Luna each driving home three runs apiece.

Class 6A

Even though there is a clear front-runner in District 20-6A in 2022 state qualifier Ridge Point, there is a logjam of teams battling for playoff positioning. Six teams are currently sitting within one game of each other as the second half of district play gets underway.

Ridge Point continued to stay atop the district standings with two wins last week, beating Austin 9-1 on March 28 before taking down Travis 10-0 on March

31. JJ Kennett homered and drove in three runs for Ridge Point (17-4-2, 8-0) in the win over Travis, while Parker Martin drove home three runs. Travis Vlasek homered and had five RBIs against Austin, and Martin added three hits of his own.

George Ranch is one of two teams tied for second in the district, beating Dulles 12-4 on March 28 before scoring three runs in the seventh to walk off with a 17-16 win over Elkins on March 31. Lane Walton had a double

and four RBIs for the Longhorns (11-12-2, 5-3) against Dulles, while Cody Ford and Tre Aikens each doubled and drove in two runs of their own. Travis rebounded from the loss to Ridge Point with an 81 victory over Bush on April 1, moving to 9-12-2 overall and 5-3 in district play.

Elkins has thrust itself back into the playoff race with wins over Hightower (7-2) on March 28 and Dulles (3-2) on March 31 prior to losing to George Ranch. Alex Hale

doubled and tripled while driving in all three runs for the Knights (8-12-1, 4-4) against Dulles, and drove in three more runs in the win over Hightower. Gabriel Ghuneim was strong on the mound against Dulles, allowing just two earned runs in 6.2 innings of work with four strikeouts. Clements rebounded from a 2-1 loss to Bush on March 28 with wins over Hightower (3-2) on March 31 and Dulles (14-8) on April 1. Fletcher Garcia had four hits and three RBIs for the Rangers (14-9, 4-4) against Dulles, while Cooper Cgielski had three hits and an RBI. Garcia also had two RBIs in the walk-off win over Hightower, including the game winner.

Hightower is now 10-6-1 overall and 4-4 in district play despite a tough week. The Hurricanes bounced back from the losses to Elkins and Clements with a 9-1 win over Austin on March 1. Austin is now 8-13 overall and 4-4 in district play, with the losses to Ridge Point and Hightower sandwiched around a 12-2 win over Bush on March 31.

HS Softball: District 20-6A standings heating up down home stretch

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

As the high school softball season comes down its home stretch, a perennial power is continuing to thrive, while several other teams had strong weeks last week as they jockey for playoff positioning amidst the beginning of the second half of district play. There is a clear favorite in the district right now in undefeated Ridge Point, which has remained unbeaten in district play.

However, teams such as George Ranch and Travis remain within striking distance thanks to strong play last week. Ridge Point continued to run through the 20-6A competition with a pair of shutouts last week, beating Hightower 15-0 on March 28 before blanking Dulles 12-0 on March 31 to improve to 19-5 and 10-0 in district play while running its winning streak to eight games. Abi Parker, Alexandria Rezak, and Jade Uresti drove in two runs apiece against Dulles, while Uresti and Braelyn

Daniels each homered in the win over Hightower and Reagan Green drove home three runs. Rezak also threw a complete game in the circle against Dulles, and Bailey Gray did the same against Hightower. The George Ranch Lady Longhorns won both games last week, defeating Austin 18-0 on March 28 before winning 2-1 in nine innings against Travis on March 31, moving into a tie with Travis for second place in the district. Zaria Turner pitched all nine innings in the circle for George Ranch (14-8-1, 9-2)

with 14 strikeouts against Travis, while Abigail Dominguez had the walkoff winner. Mariah Garner had the standout offensive performance of the week, going 4 for 4 with a home run and eight RBIs against Austin. Earlier in the week, Travis (10-6, 9-2) took down Dulles 2-0 on March 28. Elkins split a pair of games last week, beating Clements 18-17 on March 28 before dropping a 134 decision to Austin on March 31. Maci Willis had four hits including a double and three RBIs to lead the offensive charge for Elkins (11-11, 5-5) and help maintain a hold on the district’s fourth playoff spot, while Mia Wong had a double with three RBIs and Viviana Vargas homered. Vargas also hurled two scoreless innings in the circle with a strikeout. Hightower snapped a three-game losing streak with a 17-2 win over Bush on March 31, moving to 9-14 overall and 3-8 in district play. Montia Cuba had four hits including a homer for the Lady Hurricanes against Bush, while Talia Bramlett, Hannah Edwards, and Baylee Bonner all also had three RBIs

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

apiece as part of a 20-hit offensive attack. Ayanna Anthony, meanwhile, had seven strikeouts in four strong innings of work in the circle against Bush.

Austin, meanwhile, bounced back from the loss to George Ranch with the win over Elkins on March 31, to move to 8-15 overall and 5-6 in district play to stay within striking distance of a playoff spot.

Class 5A

The Foster Lady Falcons and Fulshear are continuing to battle things out atop District 20-5A, with both teams winning a pair of games last week.

The Lady Falcons were 13-0 winners over Randle on March 28 before defeating Lamar Consolidated on March 31 to improve to 24-3 overall and 8-0 in the district. Ella McDowell again led the charge for Foster with a home run and four RBIs against Randle, while Maddie Carter had three RBIs and Jordan Tosch and Izzy Jacoby drove in two runs apiece.

Sophie Brammer was perfect in the circle, striking out all 15 hitters she faced in the game against Randle.

Fulshear, meanwhile, took out Lamar Con -

solidated on March 28 before beating Marshall on March 31 to improve to 19-8 overall and 7-1 in district play. Freshman Ava Galaviz was the driving force in a 5-3 win over Lamar Consolidated with three hits – including a double and a triple – and an RBI, while Ryan Stratman and Amelia Gutierrez each drove in a run apiece. Alanna Routt was strong in the circle against Lamar Consolidated, striking out 15 hitters in a completegame effort. Terry also stayed hot, taking down Willowridge on March 28 and defeating Kempner on March 31 to move to 12-7 overall and 6-3 in district competition.

Class 4A

Needville’s Lady Blue Jays got back in the win column last week with a 12-2 win over Fort Bend Christian Academy in a non-district matchup. Seven different players drove in runs for the Lady Blue Jays (15-8), with JoJo Cantu leading the way with three RBIs, while Makala Smith led the pitching effort in the circle with six strikeouts in two shutout innings.

SPORTS

HS Hoops awards: Marshall’s Lowe wins Guy V. Lewis award

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Following a standout season on the hardwood, a Fort Bend County boys’ basketball star recently earned some regional hardware for his efforts on the court in leading his team to one of its best seasons in program history.

On March 29, Marshall Buffalos senior guard Jaland Lowe was named the winner of the 2023 Guy V. Lewis Award, an annual award from the Greater Houston Basketball Committee which honors the Greater Houston area’s top boys’ high school basketball player.

The award is named after late University of Houston basketball coach Guy V. Lewis, a College Basketball Hall of Fame coach who led the Cougars’ program from 19561986, leading the Cougars to nearly 600 wins during his tenure and reaching the Final Four on five separate occasions. Lewis beat out nine other

finalists for the award, including Stafford High School’s Glenn Bishop. And in doing so, he became the first Fort Bend County player to win the award since future University of Kentucky star Aaron Harrison (Travis High School) won it in 2013.

Lowe – a four-star recruit who is committed to the University of Pittsburgh – is coming off a season in which he averaged 24.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 4.3 assists along with 3.1 steals and 2.3 blocks per game for the Buffalos, helping lead Marshall to a 35-4 overall record and a berth in the Region III-5A final, where they lost 66-50 against eventual state runnerup Killeen Ellison.

The 6-foot-1 guard committed to Pittsburgh last October, and officially signed with the Panthers in November 2022.

Lowe, a four-star recruit according to both Rivals and 247 Sports, chose Pittsburgh out of 13 offers, which included the likes of Texas Tech, Oklahoma State, George Mason, Boise State, Washington State, Wichita State, SMU, Mem-

phis, and more.

Local stars named to AllState teams Fulshear Lady Chargers senior guard Ese Ogbevire was named to the Class 5A girls’ All-State team after averaging 12.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 2.4 steals per game. Ogbevire was one of the key cogs that helped lead the Lady Chargers to a 33-6 overall record – the most wins in a single season in program history – as well as the program’s first-ever trip to the state tournament.

Also landing on the All-State team was Stafford forward Glenn Bishop, who landed on the Class 4A boys’ team for a second consecutive season after leading the Spartans to a 31-8 record this season and a second straight regional final, where they would lose to Boerne.

In addition to earning the Guy V. Lewis Award, Lowe was also named named to the TABC’s Class 5A All-State team, the second consecutive season in which he has earned the honor.

Ridge Point girls, Fulshear boys moving on in soccer postseason

top-ranked Katy Seven Lakes 1-0 in a Region III-6A quarterfinal, while Fulshear defeated Goose Creek Memorial in penalty kicks to advance.

As the high school playoff soccer field continues to narrow, several of Fort Bend County’s teams are among those still fighting to bring home that coveted state championship to the area.

Last weekend, the Ridge Point Lady Panthers and Fulshear boys’ soccer teams punched their tickets to the next round with hard-fought wins to keep their hopes alive. Ridge Point took down previously-undefeated and

The Lady Panthers are no stranger to some playoff success, having reached the third round of the playoffs on seven occasions and reaching the regional tournament four times. But they have bigger goals after the program’s first trip to state last season, and would not be denied the chance to play for it again.

Kara Canetti scored the lone goal in the match for Ridge Point off an assist from Emma Lovell in the 10th minute of the second half, and goalkeeper Molly Thompson and the rest of the defense made it hold up to hand Seven Lakes its only regulation loss of the season.

It was the 22nd clean sheet

of the season for Ridge Point (21-0-5), which will advance to play Clear Lake (19-2-2) on Friday afternoon. . It is the second straight trip to the regional tournament for Ridge Point, and the fourth overall in program history.

Fulshear boys outlast Goose Creek Memorial

It was equally as tight a match for the Fulshear Chargers, who played Goose Creek Memorial to a 1-1 tie in regulation and two periods of extra time before breaking through in penalty kicks to advance to the Region III-5A quarterfinals. It is the second time Fulshear has made it to the regional quarterfinal round in program history, and the first time since 2019. Fulshear (14-4-5) is slated to clash with College Station (18-4-3) on Friday night.

Marshall's Jaland Lowe was recently announced as the winner of the 2023 Guy V. Lewis Award, given annually to the player voted as the top boys' basketball player from the Houston area. He is the first Fort Bend player to win the award since 2013. (Photo by Landan Kuhlmann)

Landan Kuhlmann SPORTS REPORTER

Ridge Point's girls' soccer team celebrates last Friday night following a regional quarterfinal win over Seven Lakes. The Lady Panthers defeated the Lady Spartans 1-0 to advance to the regional tournament for a second consecutive season. (Photo from Twitter)

Area teachers honored for science education contributions

Two Fort Bend ISD educators have received national recognition for their work in science education, according to a FBISD news release.

Crockett Middle School

STEM Teacher Richard Embrick and the Dean of Instruction for Hightower High School’s P-TECH Health Science Program

Dr. Sharon Delesbore were recently recognized by the National Science Teaching Association (NSTA) during the NSTA National Conference on Science Education in Atlanta in March.

Embrick and Delesbore received the Urban Shell Educator Development Award, which recognizes science teachers who are part of underrepresented ethnic groups in the field.

"Congratulations to all the outstanding NSTA award winners,” NTSA President Elizabeth Mulkerrin said in the release.

“Our teacher awards are one of the highest honors any educator can receive.

of pitches and the tallying by the judges, Team Evo, a group comprised entirely of girls, took first

Each one of them is an exemplary role model for their colleagues and an inspiration for their students.”

Embrick has been teaching for 14 years. He previously received the National NTSA Shell Science Teaching award in 2018.

Delosbore has worked in education for 27 years and as an administrator in middle and high school for the past 15 years. She is an advocate for science education, having received her doctoral endorsement from Kingbridge University through her work with NSTA and the National Science Foundation. She is a product of Fort Bend ISD, having attended Ridgemont Elementary, Missouri City Middle School and Willowridge High School. The NSTA awards program honors K–12 teachers, principals, professors and other science education professionals for their outstanding work and achievement in science education.

prize for their product, a set of flash-card style cards aligned around social, spiritual, intellectual and emotional dimensions. The cards are designed to give people useful suggestions on things they can do

to elevate their sense of well-being.

The team won a $500 prize. Afterward, they spoke at length with a woman business owner about their product.

departments, who were present, did not have specific authority to try to generate revenue and in many cases are prohibited from doing so by state law.

Before Jones's arrival, only Mathews spoke about the agenda item. He said he had long been arguing for the city to move from relying so much on revenue generated by warehouse inventories and put more emphasis on attracting retail businesses to the city.

A member of the public said that the city could generate more revenues through enforcement of property codes and the like. But, he said, the city has long underfunded city staff's ability to do so.

Once Jones arrived, the tone of the meeting shifted. Carrying what he referred to as his "infamous blue folder" of ideas to generate new income, Jones first began by asking the department heads

if they could present any ideas.

When the staff did not respond, Jones offered one of his own - that the city consider repealing the exemptions on sales tax for telecommunications and energy services. He said that could result in a revenue stream of up to $1 million annually.

He acknowledged that this was not a new idea, and Willis later remarked that it was one that been considered and rejected several times by previous Councils. Willis said that the exemption attracts businesses and residents to Stafford. The two engaged in back-and-forth about how many cities in Texas do or do not offer such exemptions.

From that point, the meeting became increasingly heated. Jones pressed the department heads to answer questions about their budgetary needs. The staff members increasingly grew frustrated trying to Jones's questioning.

At one point, Art Pringle, the city's hired attorney, grew so frustrated that the told the full Council that the city had for years subsisting on "vegetables" and not "meat" in its finances. He left the meeting for and extended period, leaving it to assistant city attorney Mary Ann Powell to field questions.

In the second part of the meeting, the Council addressed the city's upcoming Juneteenth celebration, which is being planned by an ad hoc committed headed by Jones. As as the last meeting where the celebration was discussed, there was not a fixed budget. The council put off a vote until a final budget can be presented at a later meeting.

the needs that that part of Fresno needs to be addressed is the lack of new, safe and affordable housing. While the county would not be building such housing, the new entity could act as the conduit for the private sector to develop such projects, he said. "It would give it the shot in the arm that it needs, along with some of the other things that we're trying to do," Prestage said. He added that this kind of entity, which is allowed

under state law, would be like other such entities, such as a housing finance authority, a toll road authority, and special districts.

"This is just a tool in the toolbox," Prestage said.

Once the law firm completes its work, he said, it would come back to Commissioners Court for more discussion and a vote. The intention is for the members of Commissioners Court to serve as the governing board of the new entity, he added.

In response to a question from George, Prestage said the new entity would not be exclusively focused

on Fresno, but would work in areas across the county.

One need that the entity could address is that of transitional housing, particularly for young people who have aged out of the foster care system, Prestage said. Addressing homelessness has become a recent focus for Commissioners Court. "This is a tool that can help solve that problem," he said. Precinct 3 Commissioner Andy Meyers made a point of noting that Fort Bend County would have no financial liability stemming from the actions of the new entity.

Crockett Middle School STEM Teacher Richard Embrick (right) and the Dean of Instruction for Hightower High School’s PTECH Health Science Program Dr. Sharon Delesbore (center) were recently recognized for their outstanding work in science education. (Photo courtesy Fort Bend ISD)

H COURT FROM PAGE 1

H MEETING FROM PAGE 1

H SPARK FROM PAGE 1

Youngsters enjoy some of the STEM-related fun on offer at the Innovation Spark Fest at Sugar Land Town Square last weekend. (Photo by Ken Fountain)

Sugar Land opening third Brazos River phase April 11

The City of Sugar Land will hold a grand-opening celebration for the third phase of Brazos River Park, 18427 Southwest Freeway, on April 11 at 4:30 p.m., according to a news release from the city.

The event will include a ribbon cutting ceremony and brief comments from city officials. Families are encouraged to bring picnic baskets and blankets to enjoy the new amenities and have an evening of fun. The improvements include a covered pavilion with seating, BBQ grills, a large playground and concrete trails. The project is intended to meet the increasing demand for

amenities that promote the health and outdoor lifestyle of Sugar Land residents and attract regional visitors who contribute to vibrant local businesses.

Voters approved funding for the project in 2013. Cost savings were achieved by working directly with a Sugar Land-based playground vendor, Fun Abounds, for the equipment and installation of the playground using American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant funds. Other attractions recently added to the area include a Pump Track that officially opened on March 25 and the Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park that partially opened on March 11. Both areas will be accessible during the event.

All residents are invited to the grand-opening celebration, with the first 100 attendees to receive a voucher for a free cold treat.

For more information, contact Sugar Land Parks and Recreation at (281) 275-2825, or visit www. sugarlandtx.gov/parks.

The third phase of Sugar Land's Brazos River Park includes a new playground and pavilion. The city of Sugar Land will host a grand opening next weekend (Photo courtesy City of Sugar Land)

Sugar Land board OK's purchase of property near

Constellation Field

By Ken Fountain

In a special meeting March 29, the City of Sugar Land's SL4B Corporation board unanimously approved a budget amendment request that will allow for the $3.562 million purchase of a 6.88-acre property near the city-owned Constellation Field which the city has been leasing for overflow parking at the baseball facility. As explained by Devon

Rodriguez, the city's deputy director for economic development, the property had recently changed ownership and there was a short timeline for the city to make the purchase. The budget amendment request includes the purchase amount and 1% in closing costs.

The unpaved property is along Imperial Boulevard across from the Overture apartment complex. Rodriguez said that in the short term, the city would continue to use the prop -

erty for overflow parking for Constellation Field, but owning it would allow for future development opportunities that would enhance the area around the park.

With the purchase, the funding balance for SL4B Corporation's 2023 fiscal year would drop from $12.59 million to $8.96 million. Rodriguez said that the corporation still has development funding in reserve.

The budget amendment will next go to City Council for final approval.

Worship Directory FORT BEND COUNTY

EPISCOPAL

ALL SAINTS EPISCOPAL CHURCH • 281-499-9602

605 Dulles Avenue, Stafford, TX 77477

SUNDAY: 10:30 am Worship Holy Eucharist www.allsaints-stafford.org

CHURCH OF CHRIST

STAFFORD CHURCH OF CHRIST • 281-499-2507

402 Stafford Run Rd. -Stafford, 77477 Stephen Higley, Preacher

713-433-6421

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

MAGNOLIA

Magnolia is a little timid but a whole lot of love! She is very sweet and generous with her kisses. She’ll roll right over and present her belly for rubs with no hesitation!

Pastor

Sunday School/Bible Study - 9:30am

Sunday Worship Service - 10:30am

Wednesday (Team Kids) - 7:00pm

Wednesday (Bible Study) - 7:00pm

Any Prayer needs call 979.553.3049

Special Events-Resurrection (Easter) Weekend www.bbbchurch.org

METHODIST CHURCH

CHRIST CHURCH SUGAR LAND • 281-980-6888

A United Methodist Community

3300 Austin Parkway • Sugar Land, TX 77479

Rev. Dr. Daniel Irving, Senior Pastor

Sunday Schedule 9:30 am Blended Worship 9:30 am Sunday School for all ages 11:00 am Traditional & Contemporary Worship www.christchurchsl.org

Sunday Bible Study 9:30 am

Sunday Worship 10:30 am

Wednesday 7:00 pm www.staffordchurchofchrist.org

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH • 281-240-3195

502 Eldridge Rd. -Sugar Land, TX 77478 Reverend Dr. Fred Seay, Pastor

Sunday Worship In Person 11:00 am / Nursery Available Worship Online on YouTube www.fpcsl.org

Scripture

- ROMANS

Magnolia's first day in fostering went great! She has made new furry friends and has been getting lots of love from the family fostering her. She’s also super smart! Magnolia already knows “sit” and is always eager to learn new tricks. She’s very interested in playing with other dogs and exploring new places. All she needs is a forever family to help her find her confidence. Just feed her treats and tell her she’s pretty to watch Magnolia blossom into an absolutely amazing member of the family!

...ADOPT MAGNOLIA!

“Be

12:12

Sugar Land's SL4B Corporation board approved a budget amendment allowing for the purchase of a property near Constellation Field used for overflow parking. (Photo by Ken Fountain)

Snatch victory from jaws of defeat

Lynn aShBy Columnist

tend to work in the dark, but you’ve certainly witnessed our successes from Georgia to Arizona, Wisconsin to Pennsylvania. Houston is one of our triumphs. Sleaze R Us is a team of experts who turn losers into winners with fake news, recounts, lawsuits and dirty tricks. We dig out the dirt on your opponent -- we call it “oppositional research,” which sounds nicer. We can go back to your opponent’s childhood and twist a minor incident into something humiliating. Did she get arrested for a hit-and-run when she was 17? How can she prove an event didn’t happen? You may ask: Why should you hire us so early, since the

actual elections aren’t till next year? Because there are primaries, debates, fund raising and spots on TV’s talking heads. Also, because if you don’t hire us, your opponents may. which would probably guarantee your defeat. Now as to your campaign. You must start by sowing seeds of doubt about the honesty of the election itself, and that’s easy because our trust in election results and our government in general has fallen to record lows. According to the respected Pew Research Center, only two-in-ten Americans say they trust the government in Washington to do what is right “just about always” or “most of the time.” In 1958, the trust figure was 75 percent. Since 2007, the number of Americans saying they can trust the government “always or most of the time” has not surpassed 30 percent. This lack of trustfulness is strictly along party lines. Today, 29 percent of Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents say they trust their government “just about always or most of the time,” compared with 9 percent of Republicans and Republican-leaners.

The percentages also follow racial lines. Asian (37 percent) trust the government “most of the time” or “just about always,” Hispanic (29 percent) and Black (24 percent) adults all express higher levels of trust in government than do white adults (16 percent). So don’t worry about minorities. They’ll believe anything. Why do Republicans not trust their government?

Easy. Fox News, if, indeed, you can trust Fox News, which is having its own truthfulness problems, but we’ll get to that in a moment. Anyway, get busy even before the election by hinting that the voter count will be false. Stock up on tape showing workers toting boxes of “ballots” voting for you to the shredder. The fact that the tape was made of Amazon employees in Chicago destroying damaged packaging in 2005 doesn’t matter. No one will know. Line up interviews for TV of precinct workers complaining, “I was told to turn away anyone voting for you or I’d be arrested.” Do not let their makeup run or show their script cards. Charge that several thousand votes were cast by dead people. Do not

mention that they voted for Truman. In your campaign, be careful of press conferences, which may have biased reporters asking embarrassing questions, such as: “How do you explain TV footage showing you taking a cash bribe from a Mafia boss?’ You stonewall and keep replying, “That’s fake news. I can explain later.” If that annoying reporter keeps asking the same question throughout the campaign, say, “That’s old news.” There is a story that newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst was backing a particular candidate in a race and, on election night, had his printers set up two headlines. One read: “Jones Wins in a Landslide!” The other headline read: “Fraud at the Polls!” Fraud is the new buzzword for losers, and demands for recounts are the new fallback position. In the Arizona governor’s race, Republican Kari Lake demanded a recount after she lost to Democrat Katie Hobbs by more than 17,000 votes. Lake’s protests are going nowhere. In Houston, Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale spent lots of money backing Republi -

can challenger Alexandra del Moral Mealer against Lina Hidalgo for county judge. Moral Mealer lost by almost 16,000 votes.

Nevertheless, McIngvale joined others in filing a lawsuit against the Harris County Elections Administrator’s Office over the release of election records.

There may be fraud at the polls!

If Americans don’t trust their government, sore losers certainly don’t trust elections. A Marist survey finds that only 60 percent of Americans say they trust the results of the 2020 presidential election. But get this: Among Trump voters, 40 percent say Trump “definitely” won and another 36 percent say he “probably” won the election. Only 7 percent of Trump voters concede that Joe Biden “definitely” won, while another 15 percent say he “probably” won. A Reuters poll found that 53 percent of Republicans believe Trump is the “true president.” They blame his loss to Biden on illegal voting. Older, less educated and more conservative Trump supporters are among the most likely to still believe that Trump won. Another plan: Trump told

a Georgia election official: “All I want to do is this. I just want to find 11,780 votes, which is one more than we have.” Find however many lost ballots you need. Warning: Be careful accusing a company of rigging its voting equipment to change the outcome. Just ask Fox News if it has an extra $1.6 billion to pay Dominion Voting Systems for defamation. Portray yourself as the victim being persecuted by the Deep State, the press and anyone you can call “elite.” Millions of Americans feel they are being manipulated by the “elite.” You don’t have to be specific. Same for “comprehensive immigration reform.” That can mean anything the voter wants it to mean. If you are speaking to a conservative crowd, wear a MAGA cap but not a buffalo head with horns. Addressing a liberal audience? A sombrero. These recommendations should assure you of turning your humiliating defeat into a solid victory. So hire us at Sleaze R Us. Pay in advance.

Ashby mistrusts at ashby2@comcast.net

for the Lamar Consolidated ISD Gene Tomas High School and Ella Banks Junior High Bid Package #1 – Earthwork and Utilities. Project consists of a new High School and Juanior High Facility. The scope of Package 1 includes all earthwork, utilities, and erosion control scopes required for the project. Qualifications/Proposals are due at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, April 19, 2023 at the offices of Drymalla Construction Company, LLC, 608 Harbert, Columbus, Texas 78934, via fax 979-732-3663,

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

FBJSL IS ACCEPTING CAF GRANT APPLICATIONS

We provide grants of up to $5,000.00 to charitable causes serving Fort Bend County with requests to fund a critical need, pilot a program, or expand a significant service to the community. If your agency or organization is interested in applying for a CAF grant, please visit the Request Support page of the FBJSL website (www.fbjsl.org/ request-support). All applications should be submitted via e-mail to brccom@fbjsl.com

LIBRARIES HOST BOARD-GAME NIGHTS FOR ALL AGES IN APRIL

-The Sienna Branch Library (8411 Sienna Springs Blvd in Missouri City) will host Board-Game night, April 17, from 6:00 to 8:00pm, in Conference Room 2A of the library.

EASTER EGG HUNT 2023 SPONSORED BY AMARO LAW FIRM Sunday, April 9, 2023, at Constellation Field. Gates Open at 11:45 a.m. Easter Egg Hunt at 12:15 p.m. First Pitch at 2:00 p.m. Register at Amarolawfirm.com/easter-egg-hunt. Please register by Friday, March 24th to join our guest list.

FORT BEND-HARRIS RETIRED EDUCATORS TO MEET APRIL 13TH

Meeting Thursday, April 13th, from 1-3 p.m. at Sugar Land Methodist Church, 431 Eldridge Rd. in the Venue Room. A representative from FBISD will speak about the upcoming school bond election. Program: Senior Medicare Patrol-Scams. TRTA Day at the TX Capitol will be April 11th-12th. All Fort Bend and Harris County I.S.D. retired public educators are invited. Website: http://localunits.org/FortBendHarris/ 713-206-2733.

CHEF ELLEN SCHWARTZ TO SHARE RECIPE TIPS AT FIRST COLONY BRANCH LIBRARY

Professional chef Ellen Schwartz presents “Picking the Perfect Recipe” at Fort Bend County Libraries’ First Colony Branch Library on Tuesday, April 18, from 6:30 to 8:00pm, in the Meeting Room of the library, located at 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land. Register online (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us). Visit or call 281-238-2800.

AMERICAN LEGION POST 942, 311 ULRICH SUGAR LAND, WILL HOLD A CRAWFISH BOIL

On April 15, 2023, from 12 noon till 5 pm. All Veterans and public are invited. Plates are $12

HOPE FOR THREE WILL HOST ITS INAUGURAL FAMILY FUN FEST Saturday, April 22, 2023. Hope For Three will host its Inaugural Family Fun Fest, presented by Fred and Mabel R Parks Foundation, on Saturday, April 22nd, at River Pointe Church, 5000 Ransom Rd., Richmond, from 10 am to 1 pm. The outdoor festival provides an inclusive opportunity for local families whose children, teens, and adults have special needs. Families must be Fort

GOLF FOR A CAUSE 2023

BENEFITTING THE SANCTUARY

FOSTER CARE SERVICES

April 24 at Sienna Golf Club in Missouri City. For sponsorship and player details, please go to our website at https://www.sanctuaryfostercare.org/golf Questions? Reach out to Jenny Fridge at 713-4834003

ALIEF AARP CHAPTER 3264

Meets the first Thursday of every month at 10:00 a.m. at Salvation Army Church, 7920 Cook Road, Houston, TX 77072. Educational Program/Entertainment at each meeting. Bus Trips every month. The next Bus Trip is on April 26, 2023, to Painted Churches. Seniors 50 and above invited. Call 281-785-7372 for more information.

SUGAR CREEK GARDEN CLUB

BACKYARD GARDEN TOUR Sugar Creek Garden Club. Backyard Garden Tour. On May 6, 2023, 10 am to 4 pm. At Sugar Creek Subdivision. Tickets available at Guard House (Sugar Creek Blvd. at Country Club Blvd.), or at any of the 5 homes featured. Fundraiser for horticultural scholarships and neighborhood beautification.

LIBRARIES OFFER INTRODUCTORY

HANDS-ON COMPUTER & TECHNOLOGY

CLASSES THROUGH APRIL

Fort Bend County Libraries’ Adult Services staff will present a variety of free, introductory computer classes this month. The classes will take place in the Computer Labs of the libraries; seating is limited and reservations are required. To register online at the library’s website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), click on “Classes & Events,” select the library, and find the program. Or call the branch libraries system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734). The schedule for April is listed online.

ONGOING

THE SANCTUARY FOSTER CARE SERVICES

We are a child placing agency that provides wrap around care support for foster children and foster families. We provide free therapy services, 24 hr. crisis intervention, respite/alternative care services and community-based support. For more info, www.sanctuaryfostercare.org

FORT BEND COUNTY LIBRARIES’

ONLINE BOOK CLUB

Online meetings on the fourth Wednesday of every month. Free and open to the public. Registration is required; to register online www. fortbend.lib.tx.us, “Classes & Events,” select “Virtual Programs,” find the program on the date indicated. Participants may also register by calling George Memorial Library (281-342-4455).

SUGAR LAND ROTARY CLUB

Sugar Land Rotary Club, the nation’s oldest community service organization, wants you to be its guest at a meeting that could turn out to be the best fit for getting involved with a local, non-political, humanitarian service organization with a global presence to satisfy your passion. We’re on a quest for new members! Call or email Dean Clark, 469-850-2424, dean7351@gmail.com. We’re a friendly group that meets once a week for lunch.

FT. BEND ACCORDION CLUB

Meets on the 4th Sunday of every month from 2:pm - 4:pm at: CHRIST

CHURCH SUGAR LAND (in the Chapel) 3300 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land, TX 77479 FREE and Open to the Public! We welcome everybody! If you play accordion, beginners to professional and would like to play Call, Text or email: Vince Ramos Cell: 281-204-7716 vincer. music@gmail.com

FORT BEND JUNIOR SERVICE LEAGUE RECRUITING NEW MEMBERS FOR 2022-2023 YEAR

To join, the membership application can be accessed at https://www. fbjsl.org/join/how-to-become-a-member/. FBJSL will also be hosting multiple virtual and in-person recruitment events over the summer where potential new members can learn more about the League. Information regarding attending these events is available at www.fbjsl. org or on the FBJSL Facebook page at www.facebook.com/FortBendJuniorServiceLeague/.

LITERACY COUNCIL OF FORT BEND COUNTY

We enhance lives and strengthen communities by teaching adults to read. We need your help. Literacy Council is actively recruiting Volunteer Tutors to provide instruction for English as a Second Language (ESL) Levels 0-5, three hours a week. For more information, call 281240-8181 or visit our website www.ftbendliteracy.org

JAM WITH SAM

Join Sam Grice Tuesday evenings at 6:30 for a casual evening of music. We play a variety of music including bluegrass, country, gospel and some western. We request acoustic instruments only please. We welcome both participants and music lovers who enjoy listening to good live music. There’s no charge and we welcome beginners and gladly offer gentle assistance. We meet at First Presbyterian Church, 502 Eldridge Rd, Sugar Land. Please call Sam at 832-428-3165 for further information.

THURSDAY MORNING

BIBLE STUDY FOR MEN

Sugar Land First United Methodist Church, 431 Eldridge Road offers a Thursday Morning Bible Study For Men. This group is ongoing and uses a variety of studies throughout the year. The breakfast, coffee and donuts are free. Join us any time! Thursdays, 6:30-7:30 am in Wesley Hall. Call the church office at 281-491-6041 or Mike Schofield at 281-217-5799 for more information.

GIVE A GIFT OF HOPE

Give a Gift of Hope one-time or monthly. Your help provides access to therapies and services children with autism might otherwise go without. Please consider Hope For Three in your Estate, Planned, or Year-End Giving. Register now, or learn more about exciting events: www.hopeforthree.org/events

DVD-BASED ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL

CLASS WITH NO HOMEWORK REQUIRED

Weekly class designed to help you understand and appreciate the Bible by giving you a better sense of the land and culture from which it sprang. The class meets at 9:30 am every Sunday at First Presbyterian of Sugar Land (502 Eldridge Rd.). For more information call 281-240-3195

EXCHANGE

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

MISSOURI CITY AARP CHAPTER 3801

Meets