The 05-17-23 Edition of The Fort Bend Star

A Fort Bend County jury last week convicted Sheldon Vashawn Magee, 50, of murder and sentenced him to 50 years in prison for the 2009 shooting death of his former girlfriend, according to prosecutors. During the trial, ju-

Wildlife photographer to share experiences at Missouri City library on May 30

Staff Reports

Award-winning wildlife photographer Chris

Narvaez will share his expertise and experience at a special program, “Wildlife Adventure Photography,” at Fort Bend County Libraries’ Missouri City Branch Library on Saturday, May 20, from 2-3 p.m., in the Meeting Room of the library.

Narvaez will share his adventures capturing breathtaking wildlife images from around the world. He will provide tips on preparing for a photography trip, selecting equipment, taking action shots, and enhancing photographs. A member of the Fort Bend Photography Club, Narvaez specializes in action photographs of animals and birds.

Photographers of all experience levels, from amateur to seasoned professional, will gain insight into what it takes to capture an outstanding photograph.

The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call the Missouri City Branch Library (281-238-2100) or the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734)

rors heard testimony from the manager of a Sugar Land hotel that on Aug. 11, 2019, he called 911 after a hotel guest reported that a man was holding a crying woman by the shirt as she tried to get away in the parking lot. The manager testified that she went outside and found Kiva Herrera sitting on the ground and

holding her hands together as if in prayer.

When the manager asked Herrera if everything was all right, the woman told her that she and Magee were having a "misunderstanding."

But, the manager testified, the woman looked frightened, so she backed away to call the police.

Two eyewitnesses testified that they saw Magee holding Herrera by the shirt while holding a handgun. They both testified that they saw Magee point the weapon at her, shoot her, and walk away. When police arrived, a gunshot was heard, according to the press release. The hotel manager told the officers

By Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Land's ethics review board unanimously voted last week to dismiss a complaint that Mayor Joe Zimmerman filed against a member of the city's Planning & Zoning Commission, Sapana Patel. Patel, a Realtor, was one of four P&Z members who

in February voted against a planned redevelopment of the Imperial Char House and surrounding district, resulting in a tie that was effectively a rejection. The next week, a super-majority of City Council voted to overturn the P&Z vote, allowing the proposal to move forward.

The Council had already pledged up to $5 million in reimbursements to PUMA Development, the Houston-

Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

After more than three decades serving the residents of Missouri City, outgoing Police Chief Mike Berezin is heading home.

Well, close enough. Berezin, who this week concludes his 34-year tenure with the Missouri City Police Department, will shortly thereafter begin as chief of police in Dickinson in Brazoria County, next door to Galveston County, where he grew up.

Berezin joined the Missouri City Police Department as a 23-year-old

based firm that plans to redevelop the long-dormant Imperial property into a mixed-used development that would include office space, retails and restaurant spaces, and multi-family housing. The project drew intense interest, including vocal opposition from nearby residents who objected to the number of planned apartments.

Before the final Council vote, Patel posted a video on

rookie policeman in 1989, when he was already married with three children. At that time, the city's police officers and firefighters were cross-trained to perform each others jobs, and he remained in that capacity until in the mid-1990s when the departments were formally separated.

Berezin steadily moved up the ranks from patrol officer to sergeant, crime scene investigator, detective, lieutenant, and assistant police chief. When former Chief Joel Fitzgood left the position in 2013 to return to his home state of Pennsylvania, Berezin was named

her professional Facebook page saying that "big changes" were coming to the area and asked viewers to contact her to discuss their "next move."

In his official complaint, filed in February, Zimmerman said the posting was in violation of Patel's ethical responsibility to her position on the board.

The complaint had a protracted tour through the process of the ethics review

interim police chief until being appointed to the permanent role in July 2014.

Berezin said he was not actively looking for another job. But he and his family often visited his "old stomping grounds" in Galveston County, and when the position in Dickinson opened up, he thought it was time to make a change.

"It's bittersweet," Berezin said of leaving the city where he's worked virtually his entire life. But going back with his wife to a place much closer to where they grew up was an opportunity he felt he couldn't pass up, he said.

"It's time, and it's a good fit," he said.

board, a group of citizens charged with reviewing complaints made against city officials, elected or not. After an initial hearing on February 22 in which they voted that it warranted investigation, the board set a April 25 date to hear from the parties.

At the April 25 hearing, Zimmerman, appearing

Berezin said he's enjoyed his entire career in Missouri City. He credits the attitude of the personnel, who he said have an overriding sense of serving the population with a high degree of professionalism.

He said residents have returned that professionalism with respect. Especially in recent years when relationships between police and the populace around the country have undergone a lot of turmoil, Berezin said Missouri City residents have had overwhelmingly positive attitudes toward officers.

The Marshall boys' track team celebrates after winning the Class 5A state track and field team title. See page 3

Missouri City Police Chief Mike Berezin is leaving after serving the city for 34 years. (Courtesy City of Missouri City)

SEE SUGAR LAND PAGE 5

High school roundup: Ridge Point softball outlasts Heights to earn berth in regional semifinals

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

The Ridge Point Lady Panthers’ softball team has traditionally been one of the region’s strongest teams as it searches for its first state championship. And the Lady Panthers came out on top in thrilling fashion last weekend to keep their state title dreams alive.

Ridge Point took down Houston Heights in a twogame sweep in a Region III-6A quarterfinal last weekend, winning 17-3 on May 11 before coming out on top 8-7 in extra innings on May 12 to move on to the regional semifinals. It is the second regional semifinal for Ridge Point in the last three seasons, and the fourth such

trip in program history. The Lady Panthers (27-7) used a late-inning barrage to take the win in Game 1, breaking open a 3-3 tie with six runs in the fifth inning and eight runs in the sixth to cruise to the victory. Six players had multiple hits in Game 1 for Ridge Point, while Kaila Correa, Braelyn Daniels, Jade Uresti, and Alexandria Rezac drove in three runs apiece. Bailey Gray was strong in the circle, striking out 12 hitters in a complete-game effort.

In Game 2, Ridge Point faced 6-0 deficit in the second inning before clawing back to tie the game in the sixth and forcing extras before Reagan Green walked it off in the eighth inning to send the Lady Panthers on to the fourth round. Green had three hits including the walk-off in Game 2, while

Alysa Perez and Gray had two hits apiece and Uresti

had three more RBIs.

The Lady Panthers are set to face the winner of Deer Park and Atascocita, who were slated to play a winnertake-all Game 3 on Monday night.

But that was not the strong finish of the weekend from Fort Bend County. In Class 4A, the Needville Lady Blue Jays kept their season alive with a regional quarterfinal sweep of Sweeny, winning 30 on May 11 before winning 4-0 on May 12 to punch their ticket to the program’s first regional semifinal since the 2016 season. The Lady Blue Jays (29-8) are set to face off with Calallen (26-6-2) in a best-of-three Region IV-4A semifinal beginning Thursday.

Unfortunately it wasn’t as rosy an end to the weekend

for the Foster Lady Falcons, who saw their season come to an end in the Region III-5A quarterfinals against Santa Fe. The Lady Falcons won Game 1 by a score of 1-0 on May 11 before falling 4-2 on May 12 and 4-3 on May 13 to end their season. The Lady Falcons finished the 2023 season with a 34-6 overall record.

Baseball

It was also a happy weekend for the Ridge Point baseball team, as the Panthers swept a pair of games from Houston Lamar to advance to the regional quarterfinals. Ridge Point, the defending Region III champion, won 4-1 on May

Marshall boys’ track repeats as 5A state champions

By Landan Kuhlmann LKUHLMANN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

As the state’s best track and field athletes converged on the campus of the University of Texas in Austin last weekend, several Fort Bend County teams and athletes were looking to etch their names into the state record books. Ultimately, many of them did that and then some.

Leading the way for Fort Bend County was the Marshall Buffalos’ boys’ track team, which captured the Class 5A state title for a second consecutive year and the eighth time in program history. It is also the fourth championship in the past five years for the Buffalos. Marshall took home the

title by accruing 38 total points at the state meet, narrowly edging out Frisco Lone Star (32 points) to win the state crown. Arveyon Davis led the way for the Buffalos’ individual finishers by winning the state crown in the 100 hurdles with a time of 13.55 seconds in the final. The Buffalos’ 400 relay of Davis, Devin Wilkerson, William Mitchell, and Kameron Williams had a podium finish with a 40.71 in the final to place third, as did their 800 relay of Mason Roseboro, Devin Wilkerson, Kameron Williams, Nolan Richie (3:18.12; third).

In the Class 6A ranks, the Ridge Point boys’ team raced to a fourth place finish in Austin after totaling 36 points at the meet. The

Panthers’ relay quartet of Tylan Johnson, Ashton Bethel-Roman, Mason Dossett, and Cayden Broadnax led the way for the Panthers with a second-place finish in

the 800 relay (1:24.01) and a third-place finish in the 400 relay (40.58).

Stafford’s Andrew Huff was the state champion in the Class 4A boys’ discus for

a second consecutive year with a best throw of 179 feet, 9 inches in the final, and also had a third-place finish in the shot put (56-6.50).

Other shining stars from

the area in Austin last weekend included Travis’ Javaris Bonner finishing third in the Class 6A boys’ 400 with a time of 47.33 seconds, while Terry’s Alexia Washington was third in the girls’ triple jump (40-9.75) and fourth in the long (18-9.75) to cap off her 2023 season.

Below is full rundown of the area’s athletes finished their season at the state meet last weekend, listed by both classification and school:

Class 6A Bush

Amariya Hardeman –seventh in girls’ 200 (24.43) Ridge Point Cayden Broadnax – fourth

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The Ridge Point Lady Panthers' softball team swept Houston Heights last weekend to earn a berth in the Region III-6A semifinals. (Photo from Twitter).

The Marshall boys' track team celebrates after winning the Class 5A state track and field team title, the second straight season the Buffalos have earned the crown. (Photo from Twitter).

Senior Health and Safety Day to be held May 24

Reports

A few months ago in this space, I reviewed a restaurant specializing in Southern comfort food that opened with great anticipation in Missouri City's Township Square. The review was a bit mixed, as I lauded the effort that had gone into bringing a high degree of stylish décor to the concept of an old-fashioned Southern diner. My reaction to the chicken-fried steak sandwich was somewhat muted however.

I had planned to go back for another visit to give it another try. Sadly, that was not to be. Not very long after my piece ran, the restaurant closed. I trust it wasn't due to my review.

Not to be dissuaded, on Mother's Day I brought my mom to Micheaux's Southern Cuisine, another comfort food restaurant not too far away on Highway 6. I'd seen it before but never visited and had it on my to-go list. With the very rainy weather we had all weekend, a little comfort food seemed in order.

We arrived in the early afternoon and I had not anticipated the Mother's Day crowd, which was enormous. The restaurant is in a somewhat large space, but the main dining room is fairly packed with tables, and a line ran literally from the door through the dining room to the cafeteria-style counter.

The restaurant had several Mother's Day specials, but I stuck with the regular menu. It offers a lot of the selections you'd associated with Southern comfort food: baked and fried chicken, meatloaf,

the spot. (Photo by Ken Fountain)

smothered pork chops, oxtails and rice, plus a wide range of seafood dishes, both fried and grilled.

It had been quite a while since I'd had fried catfish, so I went with a double portion with fried shrimp, with collard greens and yams for my sides.

As mentioned, the place was packed, and consequently it was pretty loud. We went to an adjoining room that was a little more sedate, but just barely. The restaurant is tastefully decorated, but without a lot of fluff. There are a few booths along one wall. Some nice semi-abstract paintings are on the walls.

What with the Mother's Day crowd and the fact that we weren't having any of the specials, it took a while to get our food. But it was well worth the wait. The helpings were huge. With fried chicken and shrimp, everything depends on the batter, and it was excellent, with a slight tang that was just right. There was so much food,

in fact, that I decided to take the bread pudding I'd ordered home with me. It,too, was terrific.

I learned that Micheaux's is a family-run establishment, and it feels like it. Unlike that other place which closed, inside Micheaux's you feel like you are among people who really know the culture of Southern food. I'm not sure how long they've been open, but I expect them to remain so for quite a while.

Micheaux's Southern Cuisine

Address: 6850 Hwy. 6, Ste. 200, Missouri City

Hours: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Sunday

Entrée prices: $14.99-28

Kid-friendly: Yes

Alcohol: No

Senior discount: No

Healthy options: Yes

Star of the show: Fried catfish and shrimp

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

On Wednesday, May 24, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Fort Bend Texas A&M AgriLife Extension service will host a Senior Health and Safety Day at the Fort Bend County Fair Grounds, 4310 TX-36 S, Rosenberg. The event will include resources that will help seniors to improve their quality of life.

The event is open to all individuals. Each year, the event provides health, wellness, and safety information to more than 200 seniors. Seniors will have the opportunity to receive a free health screening, learn about protecting their identity, and play Bingo to win prizes.

The service asks that those planning to bring groups contact the office to

In 2016, Berezin played a substantial role in developing President Obama's  Task Force Report on 21st Century Policing, a response to protests against police actions. The report outlined "Six Pillars" which have been widely adopted by police agencies across the nation.

A lot of the concepts outlined in the report were first discussed during the Lyndon B. Johnson administration, but had been sidelined in the wake of widespread civil unrest over civil rights and the Vietnam War. Berezin said he was glad to have participated in an effort to bring them back to the fore. Berezin said the Six Pillars serve as an overall guide, but

Marketing 101

101

have to be adapted each community's unique needs.

He also related how, during a White House event where task force members were going to meet the President, he was pulled aside in full view of all of the participants. It turned out that one of Obama's security detail had begun as a rookie in the Missouri City police department, and he personally introduced Berezin to the President.

Berezin said the Six Pillars serve as an overall guide, but have to be adapted each community's unique needs.

let them know. Questions can be directed to Victoria Zwahr at 281-342-3034. Find ★ RIDGE POINT' FROM PAGE 3

11 before taking home a 3-0 victory on May 12 to move on to the next round. Travis Vlasek had two RBIs in Game 1 to back a ninestrikeout effort from Kellen Gradisar in the first game of the series, while JJ Kennett and Vlasek had two hits apiece in Game 2 to help Jack McKernan earn the win. Ridge Point (29-4-2) will clash with Katy Cinco Ranch (31-4) in a best-of-three Region III-6A quarterfinal series beginning Thursday at Langham Creek High School.

In the Class 5A ranks,

★ MARSHALL

FROM PAGE 3

1 in boys’ 100 (10.61)

Parker Brannon – fourth in boys’ pole vault (15-6.00)

Mason Dossett – seventh in boys’ 110 hurdles (14.16)

Kylah Woods – eighth in girls’ 100 (11.99)

Boys’ 800 relay (Tylan Johnson, Ashton Bethel-Roman, Mason Dossett, Cayden Broadnax) – second (1:24.01)

Boys’ 400 relay (Tylan Johnson, Ashton Bethel-Roman, Mason Dossett, Cayden Broadnax) – third (40.58) Elkins

During Berezin's time with Missouri City, the population has more than doubled, from 36,176 in 1990 to 74,259 in 2020, according to the U.S. Census. With that growth has come a lot of challenges, including for the emergency

Fulshear is moving on to the regional quarterfinals after a thrilling series win over Crosby in the area round. The Chargers dropped Game 1 6-0 on May 11, but bounced back with wins of 7-1 on May 12 and 1-0 on May 13 to secure a trip the regional quarterfinal round for the first time since 2019. Fulshear (26-9-1) will take on La Porte (26-8-1) in a one-game regional quarterfinal at 7:30 p.m. Friday at C.E. King High School.

It was not meant to be for all of the area’s teams, however. The Foster Falcons saw their season come to an end with losses to Barbers Hill on May 11 (4-2) and May 12 (11-10) in the Class 5A area round. Josh

Travis Javaris Bonner – third in boys’ 400 (47.33)

Bryce Johnson – ninth in boys’ 800 (2:00.14)

Class 5A

Marshall Arveyon Davis – state champion in boys’ 110 hurdles (13.55) and fifth in 300 hurdles (37.16)

Mason Roseboro – fourth in boys’ 400 (49.342)

Boys’ 400 relay (Arveyon Davis, Devin Wilkerson, William Mitchell, Kameron Williams) – third (40.71)

Boys’ 1600 relay (Mason Roseboro, Devin Wilkerson, Kameron Williams, Nolan Richie) – third (3:18.12)

Girls’ 800 relay (Jenaia Hunter, Tyeler Moore, Jasmine Harris, Jaden Small) – fourth (1:38.85)

Girls’ 1600 relay (Ciara Douglas, Tyeler Moore, Reece Guillory, Brianna Brinkley) – fifth (3:52.31)

Girls’ 400 relay (Brianna Brinkley, Tyeler Moore, Jenaia Hunter, Jaden Small) – seventh (47.50)

services personnel who are charged with protecting the residents.

Berezin said that there has been a lot of increased traffic that has come with the growth, he believes crime rates in Missouri City are in line with similar cities in the state and country.

Berezin praised City Manager Angel Jones for finally pushing through the recent overhaul of city salaries, including police and emergency services personnel, to make them more in line with competing jurisdictions. The lack of parity in salaries was a chief cause in the rate of vacancies on the force, he said.

Berezin said that while he leaves with some regret, he is hopeful that Missouri City and the police force are in a good position to move forward.

Ramirez doubled and drove home a run in Game 1, while Jackson Low had home run and four RBIs in Game 2. The Falcons finished the season with a 25-11 overall record.

The Needville Blue Jays also saw their season end in heartbreak with a loss to Davenport in the Class 4A area round last weekend. After losing Game 1 6-0 on May 11, the Blue Jays walked off with a 9-8 win in Game 2 on May 12 before losing May 13 to end their season. Ryan Rodriguez had four hits and five RBIs while Colton Stavinoha and Camden Babcock had three hits apiece in the Game 2 win for Needville, which finished the season with a 24-7 record.

Sean Smith – fifth in boys’ 400 (49.345)

Terry

Alexia Washington – third in girls’ triple jump (40-9.75) and fourth in long jump (189.75)

Justice Black – fifth in girls’ 100 (11.84)

Willowridge

Anthony Momon-Lattimore – ninth in boys’ 200 (21.67)

Class 4A

Stafford

Andrew Huff – state champion in boys’ discus (179-9) and third in shot put (56-6.50)

Koi Wedderburn – seventh in boys’ long jump (22-2.00)

Amber Butler – eighth in girls’ 100 (12.44)

Harold Kidd – eighth in boys’ 200 (22.26)

Boys’ 800 relay (Bradley Lowman, Weldon Moffett, Harold Kidd, Chase Williams) – fourth (1:27.59)

Girls’ 800 relay (Kiana Smith, Jazzmine Rhodes, Paige Lewis, Amber Butler) – eighth (1:45.42)

Needville

Maddie Watson – seventh in girls’ 3200 (2:18.96)

Jessalyn Gregory – fourth in girls’ 100 hurdles (15.04)

Reyha Johnson – seventh in girls’ 300 hurdles (47.37)

★ POLICE FROM PAGE

BOYS'

hit

By

Ken Fountain

Houston Methodist Sugar Land to host National Cancer Survivors Day on June 1

Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center at Sugar Land the 36th Annual National Cancer Survivors Day on Thursday, June 1 from 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. with a Cancer Survivors Day Celebration and Resource Fair at at the Houston Marriott Sugar Land in Sugar Land Town Square.

Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center welcomes local cancer survivors and one guest to join the event. Also being recognized are the many family members, caregivers and health care providers whose support of cancer survivors help make the celebration pos-

Staff Reports ★ SUGAR LAND FROM PAGE 1

under subpoena, told the board that someone had forwarded him a copy of Patel's Facebook posting.

He said he believed that since it was related to Patel's business, it could be a violation in view of her position on the P&Z commission. Referring to discussion that had occurred on social media and elsewhere, Zimmerman said an email exchange he had with Taylor Landin, another P&Z member, referring to providing additional training to P&Z

AD H E R E

sible. Themed “Let’s Knock Cancer Out of the Park,” the event will be emceed by KTRK-TV Channel 13 reporter Pooja Lodhia. In keeping with the baseball theme, the keynote speaker will be Dave Dravecky, former Major League Baseball pitcher and cancer survivor.

The event will begin at Guests will also enjoy lunch and a chance to visit the resource fair and learn more about available resources for navigating their cancer journeys.

“A diagnosis of cancer can generate many emotions, but survival is about embracing life and living each day to

members about their rolesin particular, that they are not supposed to consider public comments in their deliberations on particular matters.

In her presentation, Patel said she believed Zimmerman's complaint was in retaliation for her vote against the Puma development plan, which had already received the backing of Zimmerman and the council. She maintained that the Facebook video contained only information that was already publicly known and that it did reference her position on the P&Z board.

the fullest,” Amy SebastianDeutsch, director of oncology services, said in a news release.

“Our Cancer Survivor’s Day celebration is filled with laughter, camaraderie, hope, compassion, faith, love and music as we honor cancer survivors for their strength and courage.”

Anyone living with a personal history of cancer – starting from the moment of diagnosis – is a cancer survivor, according to the National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation.

“National Cancer Survivors Day is a great opportunity for cancer survivors, caregivers, friends and family to come together and affirm there can be

During both their presentations, Zimmerman and Patel said they had been friends of long standing.

The matter was not resolved at the April 25 hearing, pushing it to May 11.

During that hearing, the ethics review board members first heard from Matthew Caligur, an attorney who chairs the P&Z Commission. He explained the basic functions of the P&Z, and added that there is a process by which members who feel they might have a conflict of interest on a particular matter can seek guidance from the city attor-

quality of life after a diagnosis of cancer,” Sindhu Nair, M.D., a board-certified medical oncologist and hematologist, said.

Additionally, the foundation says more people are surviving cancer than ever before, thanks to advances in prevention, early detection, treatment and follow-up care. Cancer, however, does come with many challenges, such as barriers to care from cancer specialists and promising new treatments, inadequate or no insurance, financial hardships, employment problems and psychological struggles.

“Despite these difficulties, cancer survivors can live active, productive lives with the

ney on whether they should recuse themselves. Afterward, Patel made another protracted and sometimes contentious presentation. Clearly frustrated with the time that had gone by since Zimmerman (who was not present at the hearing) initially filed his complaint, Patel pushed forward in truing to introduce what she said was evidence of Zimmerman's retaliation against her. This often led to rebukes from Robin Cross, the attorney who advises the ethics panel, to keep her comments germane to the actual complaint. Despite the combativeness

support of other survivors and their caregivers,” said Nair.

Registration is required for each attendee and limited to one caregiver for each survivor. This event is for adults aged 18 and over. Register

online at join.houstonmethodist.org/survivor-sl or call 281.274.7500. Please note, masks are not required but are recommended. This is a public event and attendees may be photographed.

she made her Facebook posting. Some, however, said the city should take a look at its social media policy.

To my patients:

I am excited to inform you that Dr. Ajay Aggarwal, an experienced pain medicine physician, will be taking over my practice. Dr. Aggarwal is board-certified in anesthesia and pain medicine. Dr. Aggarwal and his team will continue to see you my current location. I am confident he will provide you with the highest level of care.

Daisy and Ashley will stay and continue to provide the same personal and professional relationship you have become accustomed to.

To contact Dr. Aggarwal for appointments and information, please call: 979-285-9995 or 979-245-7246

For medical records of visits prior to June 1, 2023, please email: cathy@yourpaindoc.com

It has been my pleasure to be a part of your care, and I will miss our visits. I wish you all the very best.

Fort

Sincerely, Mark Brown, M.D.

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MY PLACE STORAGE

EDITORIAL Making the grad

Lynn Ashby

Columnist

hot mortar board -- it may seem longer – you will hear me impart some advice that will make your life easier, more profitable and certainly more enjoyable. Here are some words of wisdom: Warn your parents that this afternoon you will be going home with old computers, unread books and clothes that haven’t been dry cleaned since you left as a freshman.

Give your mother a list of meals you like. That means pizza, tacos and beer. You have also been eating dorm food. Please, Mom, no more liver and soggy week-old cabbage.

★ MURDER FROM PAGE 1

exchanged gunfire before Magee ran around the corner of the hotel.

When officers located Magee, he was lying down unresponsive in the grass behind the hotel. They took him into custody and brought him to a patrol car, but he broke away from them and jumped into a lake near the hotel. The officers quickly apprehended him.

The jurors heard testimony that Magee and Herrera had been in a relationship for several years but had broken up just a few days earlier. When she did not return to the apartment they shared, he looked for her and came across her car in the hotel parking lot. Thereafter, she stalked her for several days, according to prosecutors. Prosecutors introduced into evidence the last text message Herrera sent to Magee before

Let’s talk about jobs. After a few months back home sleeping till noon and linked to your iPhone, your parents are going to drop hints like:

“I hear there is an opening down at the pig rendering plant,” or, “Repeat after me:

‘Please pull up to the next window for your order.’” Maybe you will just find a note on your bed with the monthly rent rate for your room.

Don’t say you can’t find a job. America has an unemployment rate of about 3.4 percent, which hasn’t been that low since Eisenhower was president. The Houston Rockets need a team and Texas needs a governor. The University of Texas at Austin recently had an opening for its men’s tennis coach because the former coach was caught receiving $10,000 to get an unqualified player into UT and on his team, and the men’s basketball coach was fired for allegedly beating up his live-in fiancé.

Speaking of coaches, the Texas A&M Aggies may soon be looking for a new head football coach if you can live on $90-million over 10 years.

More about money. The

her death. It read, "God has revealed so much to me. He has also strengthened me!

Strengthened me to know my worth! Strengthened me to walk away and never return to an abusive person such as yourself. You are a 45 year old man and your choice in life is to now stalk me. Where do you think that will end up for you?

I’m taking every step with the law legally to protect myself and eventually justice will be served.”

“Kiva Herrera was a courageous woman who walked away from an abusive relationship. The defendant stalked and terrorized Ms. Herrera as she tried to begin a life without him and he ultimately murdered the woman he claimed to love,” Chief Domestic Violence Prosecutor Sunni Mitchell said in a press release. She tried the case with Assistant District Attorney Lauren Valenti.

“The jury’s verdict ensures that Sheldon Magee will never be able to harm some-

average cost of college tuition in the U.S. for undergraduate students has more than tripled -- 3.15 times -- over the last 58 years. It rose from $4,336 in 1963 to $13,777 in 2020, and that's accounting for inflation. It’s even higher for private universities. Over the past three decades, the average cost to attend a private four-year university climbed to more than three times that of a public institution. I could never figure out why college tuitions keep outpacing everything else. It makes no sense. All they do it to pay professors.

Some of you may have a student debt. Actually, most of you do – 45 million or 60 percent of graduates owe –get this -- $1.76 trillion. That is more than both auto loan and credit card debt and is the second-highest source of consumer debt – being beaten out only by mortgage loans. The average student with loans graduates nearly $25,000 in debt. For Texas it’s even higher: $32,920 for a total of $120.0 billion. A lot of students run up a debt but don’t graduate. Nearly one-third of them. About

one else while also sending a clear message that domestic violence will not be tolerated in this community," she said.

The case was tried in the

16 percent of borrowers are in default. This brings up a worry. That debt doesn’t go away. Only 37.5 percent of people with student debt are younger than 30, the rest are between 35 and 49. Those old codgers are deadbeats: one third of them are in default.

So you’re in debt. Maybe really deep. More than 600,000 borrowers each has more than $200,000 in student debt, and this number continues to rise. But help is on the way -- maybe. President Joe Biden wants to forgive or at least reduce the amount students owe to the rest of us. (Federal student loans account for 92 percent of student debt, and the remaining percentage is private student loans.)

President Biden’s one-time forgiveness plan could cost $30 billion per year over the next decade, according to the U.S. Department of Education. The plan calls for forgiving up to $10,000 per federal student loan borrower, or up to $20,000 for those who have Pell Grants. Sen. Bernie Sanders (campaign slogan: “Yes, there is a free lunch”) wants to for-

434 th District Court before Presiding Judge J. Christian Becerra. Magee was not eligible for probation and must serve at least half of his sen-

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

give the entire amount of the feds’ share which is $1.6 trillion. It gets even better. This debt relief will not be treated as taxable income by the IRS. GOP members of Congress want to forgive zero. The U.S. Supreme Court is supposed to rule on this, so before you go putting up a “Sanders in 24” sign, check its ruling. You ask, “But I’ve been paying off my loanf or 20 years. Do I get a rebate?” That comes under the heading of “tough luck,” but you might check with Sen. Sanders. After more than three years of having your payments put on hold as part of Covid-19 relief efforts, you may have to start repaying your loan. No one has said exactly when that will be, even though the official date is June 30. Here is another possibility: Maybe Mexico will pay for it.

In your senior year you have been counting the days until you would be right here, leaving college behind.

“At last,” you sigh, “no more 8 a.m. classes, no more pulling all-nighters cramming material I should have learned

tence before being considered for parole.

The number to the Fort Bend County Women’s Center Crisis Hotline is (281)

earlier.” So you cry: “I’m out!”

I’ve got some bad news. You are about to go into the real world beyond the hedges and halls of ivy. Awaits you are jury duty, taxes, finding an apartment without rats that you can afford. Going on-line looking for a spouse or just a date. Ladies and gentlemen, you’re not out. You’re in.

Another fate that awaits you as alumni: this school will track you down wherever you are, hounding you for money. The UT students sing, “The eyes of Texas are upon you, you cannot get away. Do not think you can escape them.” They are unknowingly singing about the UT Alumni Giving Program. Finally, assuming you do find work, next year another graduating class will be sitting in these very chairs, all thinking the same thing: “When I graduate, how can I take his job?” You have a oneyear head start. Get busy. Ashby commences at ashby2@comcast.net

342-HELP (4357) and the toll free number to the National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-7233.

THE Arc’ ANNUAL GOLF CLASSIC “PRESENTING SPONSOR” TROY COMPANIES

The Arc is excited to announce their 29th annual Golf Classic is on May 22, 2023, at Sweetwater Country Club! 10:00 am registration and shotgun start at 11:00 am, followed by BBQ dinner and live auction. Register on line at arcgolf23.givesmart.com or call 281-494-5959.

FORT BEND COUNTY HISTORICAL COMMISSION

The FBCHC will hold its quarterly meeting at 3:00 pm, Monday, May 22, 2023 at the Missouri City Community Center, 1522 Missouri City Dr. Author Jane Goodsil will present “Memories From A Bygone Past: Snippets of oral histories from the FBCHC oral history collection”. Free and open to the public.

SUGAR LAND INVITED TO HONOR OUR FALLEN HEROES WHO FOUGHT FOR OUR SWEET LAND OF LIBERTY Memorial weekend is a time of barbeques, bargain shopping, and three days off in a row. But also, a time to stop and honor those who fought and lost their lives so that we may enjoy the freedom to celebrate. May 28th, Sugar Land Town Square .The event starts at 7:30 p.m. FREE TO THE PUBLIC!

SPACE CITY PEN CLUB

“Fountain Pen Exhibit” THROUGHOUTMay, library hours. Missouri City Library, 1530 Texas Parkway - Will.penner84@yahoo.com / 832-633-0595 The forerunners, the birth in 1884, and modern developments of fountain pens are illustrated with pens, anatomical and patent drawings, selected books and magazines, and accessories.

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

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

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

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.

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 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.