Sugar Land, TX News (July 28, 2014) - On July 24^th, the nine YMCA youth outreach summer camp sites across Fort Bend County converged on Bates Allen Park (YMCA Camp Cloud) in Kendleton, TX for their annual “Campapalooza” field day and picnic. Almost three hundred fifty Fort Bend County youth participated in a variety of activities and competitions. Thanks to the assistance from six local supporters and donors that participated as celebrity judges for the day; the kids also competed in a talent show. “The event provides a great opportunity for all of the youth involved in our nine Fort Bend County programs to come together for food, fun, and fellowship,” stated Brian Haines, YMCA District Vice President.

The YMCA “Campapalooza” event was created in 2009 by YMCA volunteers and staff in an effort to broaden the life experiences of the youth in YMCA summer outreach programs and to instill a sense of pride for the community that they represent. During the one day event, participants represented their Y sites through a variety of individual and team competitions, as well as a talent show. The children also participated in canoeing and other outdoor activities that they learned at Y Camp Cloud during the summer. The day culminated with a barbecue lunch served up by YMCA volunteers and staff.

Y Talent Show Champs & Judges - (From Left to Right) – Back Row Celebrity Judges – Swatson, Mike Flory, John Willett, Monica Rusch, Marshall Whichard, and Mike Davis. Seated Front Rows – Winning Talent Show Youth from the YMCA’s Taylor Ray Outreach Site.

Each year, the highlight of the Y “Campapalooza” event is the talent show. During the talent show, each YMCA site presented their best talents through a variety of singing and dancing performances. Judges for the talent show were represented by local organizations and businesses that support YMCA programs throughout the year. The celebrity judges for the 2014 contest included Marshall Whichard, Y Camp Cloud Co-Chair; Mike Flory, Y Camp Cloud Co-Chair; Mike Davis, Fort Bend County Parks & Recreation Director; Monica Rusch, Houston Astros and Y Camping Services Board; Swatson, Sugar Land Skeeters Mascot; and John Willett, Y Camping Services Board. After scoring all of the tremendous talent, the judges awarded first place to a team from the YMCA’s Taylor Ray Elementary outreach site from Rosenberg, Texas.

July 29th 2014 Posted to Business News,Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 28, 2014) - Terry High School will hold its freshmen orientation “Fish Camp,” 9 am to noon, Aug. 13, starting in Graeber Auditorium.

Fish Camp is for incoming freshmen and any students new to Terry. Incoming Rangers will have an opportunity to meet with administrators, coaches, teachers, and counselors and see what clubs and organizations they’d like to join. The event is being coordinated by Terry’s Student Council. Parents are also welcome.

The Terry Ranger Reveille for sophomores, juniors, and seniors, 8 am to 11 am and 1 pm to 3 pm, Aug. 12 and Aug. 14. Students can pick up schedules, apply for parking permits, and visit with counselors.

Terry is located at 5500 Ave. N in Rosenberg. Call 832-223-3400 for more information on either event.

July 28th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 28, 2014) - Houston Methodist Primary Care Group is pleased to welcome family medicine specialist Dr. Jessen Rajan.

Dr. Rajan will share a practice with Dr. Adelola Ashaye in Missouri City, located at 5819 Highway 6, Suite 370. Dr. Rajan is board certified in family medicine, and her practice serves patients of all ages, with a special emphasis on preventive care.

Dr. Rajan

“I am thrilled to be a part of Houston Methodist Primary Care Group,” says Dr. Rajan. “The Fort Bend area is an exciting place to live and work, and I am looking forward to establishing long-term relationships with my patients in Missouri City and surrounding areas. I am especially pleased to be affiliated with Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital and to have access to the hospital’s leading technology and excellent staff.”

Dr. Rajan comes to Houston Methodist Primary Care Group from the Lone Star Family Health Center in Conroe. She earned her medical degree at Texas A&M Health Science Center in College Station and her undergraduate degree from University of St. Thomas in Houston.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Rajan, call her office at 281-276-0653 or schedule online at houstonmethodist.org/primarycare.

July 28th 2014 Posted to Business News,Health News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 28, 2014) - Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital gastroenterologist Madhukar Kaw, M.D., recently performed the hospital’s first endoscopic ultrasound procedure, an advanced technology that enables doctors to generate accurate, detailed images of lesions in the digestive tract that are not visible through routine endoscopy.

Endoscopic ultrasound combines traditional endoscopy – in which a small, lighted flexible tube with an attached ultrasound probe is inserted into the upper or lower digestive tract. The scope includes a tiny device that creates sound waves to generate additional close-up images of organs, enabling the physician to see detailed pictures both from the camera and via ultrasound. Endoscopic ultrasound is especially helpful in guiding the physician during the biopsy of organs and lymph nodes.

Dana G. Lewis, R.N., endoscopy charge nurse; Kenneth Isaac, endoscopy technician; Madhukar Kaw, M.D., gastroenterologist; Max Mejia, endoscopy technician; Roderick Carter, endoscopy technician.

Currently, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is the only facility in Fort Bend providing endoscopic ultrasounds.

“Images from a traditional endoscopic camera don’t always allow the physician to detect some early-stage cancers,” says Dr. Kaw. “And routine ultrasounds, because they travel through the body, are typically not helpful until there is a mass of some size. Now we can create both close-up camera and ultrasound images with one tool that enables us to clearly see lesions or abnormalities and to directly guide biopsies for further study. The endoscopic ultrasound has become an integral technology in identifying and staging gastrointestinal cancers including esophageal, stomach, rectum, pancreatic, and bile duct cancers.”

July 28th 2014 Posted to Business News,Health News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 28, 2014) - Sugar Land police are looking for two men who robbed an employee at Domino’s Pizza, 11920 Dairy Ashford Road, on July 21.

The 25-year-old employee said he walked outside at about 2:30 am to place an item in his vehicle as he was closing the restaurant. His vehicle was parked behind the restaurant. While standing near his vehicle, he was approached by two men, who displayed handguns and demanded money from the cash register.

The employee told the men that cash receipts had already been deposited at a bank, so the suspects took a small amount of money from the employee and ran away.

A female employee inside the restaurant witnessed the armed confrontation, locked the door, and called police.

There were no video surveillance cameras around the exterior of Domino’s; however, footage from a nearby business indicates the suspects may have left in a small, red, four-door passenger vehicle with black rims.

The suspects were described as black men wearing dark hoodies and black sweat pants. They were 5 feet 10 inches to 6 feet 1 inches tall and 24-28 years old. They both had thin builds, medium skin tones, and were clean shaven. One had a short military-style afro haircut.

Anyone with information should call the Sugar Land Police Department at 281-275-2540 or Fort Bend County Crime Stoppers at 281-342-TIPS (8477).

July 28th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 24, 2014) - Missouri City residents now have convenient access to Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s leading emergency care capabilities.

The new state-of-the-art Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center opened July 15 in the heart of Missouri City, at 8200 Highway 6 between the Sienna Plantation and Riverstone communities. The center is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week to treat patients of all ages who are ill or injured.

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital celebrated the new Emergency Care Center on July 10 with over 400 attendees. The 9,600-square-foot facility includes 10 private treatment rooms, full-service X-ray, CT, and ultrasound capabilities.

Maime Ballard, Physician Relations; Dr. Jessen Rajan, Houston Methodist Primary Care Group; Dr. Deepshikha Sharda, Houston Methodist Primary Care Group; Dr. Adelola Ashaye, Houston Methodist Primary Care Group.

Most importantly, Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center is staffed by board-certified emergency medicine physicians specializing in emergency care from pediatric to geriatric patients, working alongside specially trained nursing and ancillary staff with extensive experience in emergency care.

“The new Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center gives Missouri City residents a first-class ER right in their own neighborhood,” says Chris Siebenaler, CEO of Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “Patients treated at the new center will have direct, expedited admission to Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital if needed, along with personal assistance from patient representatives in scheduling any necessary follow-up appointments. And the center accepts all insurance plans that are in-network with Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital including Medicare.” (more…)

July 24th 2014 Posted to Business News,Health News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 24, 2014) - City Manager Allen Bogard presented his proposed fiscal year 2015 budget to City Council on July 22. The City’s fiscal year begins Oct. 1 and ends on Sept. 30, 2015.

Based on the priorities and needs identified by City Council through planning workshops beginning in March, the proposed budget totals $324.15 million. Capital projects such as a performing arts center, voter-approved parks projects, and street/drainage improvements represent a large share of the proposed budget. Of the total, $166.32 million is for operations, $144.35 million is for capital projects, and $13.48 million is for economic development.

The increase to the City’s operating budget and general fund is 3.8 percent and 4.6 percent, respectively. The proposed budget includes funding for several high priority City Council initiatives.

The following priorities are addressed in the operating budget:

• Eleven new firefighter/paramedics, two public safety dispatchers, and equipment for implementation of a fire-based ambulance transport system beginning January 2015 are included. The effort is the result of a strategic project to meet improved Advanced Life Support delivery standards that were identified by Dr. Joe Anzaldua, Sugar Land’s medical director.
• Funds are included for implementation of a public safety compensation study that will keep the City’s public safety positions competitive in the local market.
• Two new code enforcement inspectors will allow a more proactive approach to neighborhood code enforcement.
• An additional customer service representative will assist with utility billing calls and payments. (more…)

July 24th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 24, 2014) - The Texas Public Works Association (TPWA) selected the City of Sugar Land to receive a Sustainability Practices Award for achievements in solid waste and recycling.

The award recognizes individuals, teams, or organizations that have made outstanding contributions to promote sustainability in public works.

Sugar Land was recognized for an ongoing public education campaign to make residents aware of solid waste and recycling services intended to reduce waste sent to landfills.

Pictured (L-R) during a recent City Council recognition ceremony are Assistant Public Works Director Dawn Steph, Texas Public Works Association Southeast Branch President Andrea Brinkley, Mayor James Thompson, and Environmental Manager Gabe Reaume.

Sugar Land’s enhanced solid waste and recycling program was implemented several years ago with the goal to increase services and reduce the amount of solid waste sent to landfills. At that time, just 10 percent of waste was being diverted from landfills.

The enhanced solid waste and recycling program now includes automated collections of garbage and recycling, a bulky waste program, and increased recycling services such as a green waste recycling program.

The City designed an education and marketing campaign to ensure residents are aware of the program. The campaign included both traditional and modern advertising including videos, education events, news releases, mailers, etc. The City of Sugar Land has also made use of social media and developed an informative smart phone app to better educate residents.

Through the education campaign and a partnership with Republic Services, the City was able to provide the enhanced services at a savings to taxpayers of $800,000 annually and diverted more than 36 percent of solid waste from landfills in 2013.

To learn more about Sugar Land’s solid waste and recycling services, visit www.sugarlandtx.gov/solidwaste.

July 24th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 23, 2014) - Fort Bend ISD has established Monday, July 28 and Tuesday, July 29 as walk-in registration days where parents may enroll students new to the District at any FBISD school. Schools will hold morning registration from 9:00 am until 12:00 pm, and afternoon registration will take place from 1:00 pm until 4:00 pm each day. Families who are unable to attend the walk-in registrations will need to make an appointment to register students on additional days.

Parents of all students new to FBISD begin the process by completing the New Student Online Registration Process. Parents may complete the process from their home computers or at a computer available on their student’s campus. A link is provided on the District’s website. To complete the process, parents will need an email address to successfully create an account.

To make an appointment to enroll their child, parents who have completed the online process should call the school in which their child will attend. No appointment is needed for the walk-in registration dates of July 28 and 29.

Current FBISD students who have moved to another home within the District and will be zoned to a different school in 2014-2015 are not required to complete the online registration. Parents of rezoned students should call their new campus to make an appointment.

To ensure that registration goes smoothly, families are asked to bring the following documents when enrolling their children in Fort Bend ISD:

• Birth Certificate or its equivalent (for students younger than age 12)
• Most recent report card or grade transcript
• Immunization Records
• Proof of Residence, including a deed, current lease, or mortgage agreement
• A recent utility bill (water, gas, electric)
• A student’s Social Security card or a state-assigned ID number
• A government issued photo ID (TX Driver’s License/ID Card) of the student’s parent or guardian, which provides their FBISD address

July 23rd 2014 Posted to Community News,School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 23, 2014) - Fort Bend ISD has a policy to ensure that each homeless youth has access to the same free public education and related services as every other school-aged student who attends a school in FBISD.

FBISD’s Special Programs Department and campuses work together to improve the educational outcomes for homeless students by addressing areas of enrollment, transportation, academic, social, and psychological needs.

Amanda Hartley, Title I Coordinator in Special Programs, serves as the District’s Homeless Liaison. For information on services provided to our homeless youth, please contact her at 281-634-1355.

July 23rd 2014 Posted to Community News,School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 21, 2014) - At its regular meeting on Monday, June 16, the Missouri City Council recognized the Muñiz family for assisting Missouri City Officer Benjamin Pahl after he was in a motorcycle accident outside their Sienna Plantation home. Officer Pahl presented the family with an additional plaque that recognized them for their heroic efforts to help the injured officer and other public safety and emergency personnel during and after the accident.

On February 19, Officer Pahl left the Missouri City Public Safety Headquarters after a meeting to head home on his motorcycle. After recently being selected to the City’s new motorcycle traffic unit, Officer Pahl had begun riding his motorcycle as often as possible, but that day he accidentally hit a curb while turning into his neighborhood. He was thrown off of the vehicle and hit a street sign.

“After getting past the initial shock of the accident, I was able to reach my cell phone and call 911. Right after I got a hold of the dispatcher, Juan and Synthia Muñiz, neighbors whom I have never met, came to my aid. Mr. Muñiz took my cell phone and spoke to the dispatcher, giving her the information they needed, all the while checking my injuries and summoning extra help,” Officer Pahl said. “Mr. Muñiz held my twisted leg stable, which I had been trying to do myself. Mrs. Muñiz spoke to me and tried to keep me busy. She contacted my wife and informed her of the accident and which hospital I would be going to.”

Image courtesy of Missouri City
Officer Ben Pahl, center, recognized the Muñiz family for coming to his assistance after he was in a motorcycle accident in front of their home.

The impact had caused an anterior dislocation of Officer Pahl’s left knee and a large laceration to the bone on his lower right leg. The high-impact trauma to his knee was both limb and life threatening. Despite needing emergency care quickly in order to save his left leg, Officer Pahl said that until the Muñiz family stepped in, he felt ignored by passing vehicles.

“I remember thinking to myself ‘why isn’t anyone here to help me?’ I’m not sure how long I was on the ground with no help, but it seemed like an eternity,” Officer Pahl said. “While lying on the ground, I heard many people drive past without stopping to help or come to my aid. Mr. and Mrs. Muñiz didn’t wait for someone else to help, they didn’t stop to take pictures or video, they just came to me. That’s all I needed at that moment.” (more…)

July 21st 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 21, 2014) - The Sugar Land Animal Shelter is extending reduced adoption fees of $20 for cats through Sept. 8. The fee includes vaccinations, spaying, and a microchip with a lifetime registration.

All cats and kittens include a sleepover option allowing potential families to try out a pet in their home for three to five days. If it’s a perfect match, just return to Animal Services to finalize the adoption.

The City also hosts adoption events at Petsmart, 16758 Southwest Freeway. Adoptable animals from the City’s animal shelter are displayed on a daily basis. Cats are housed at Petsmart seven days a week, and dogs stay at the store on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

For more information, contact Sugar Land Animal Services, 101 Gillingham Lane, at 281-275-A-DOG (2364).

July 21st 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 17, 2014) - Lamar CISD’s Common Threads program, the Texas Children’s Health Plan and Children’s Dentistry of Texas are sponsoring a back-to-school fair, located at Common Threads, 710 Houston St., Richmond.

The fair will be July 26, from 9 am to 1 pm.

There will be free school supplies for children, grades k-12. Every child must be accompanied by an adult.

Qualifying families can also pick up school clothing, or a voucher to obtain clothing at a future date. Talk to your child’s school nurse for qualification information.

Vaccinations and health screenings will also be provided, as well as nutrition, health, and safety information. Please bring a vaccination record if you plan to have your child vaccinated.

There will also be fun activities, including door prizes, face painting, popcorn, and music.

Clothing and school supplies will be provided to Lamar CISD students only.

July 17th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 17, 2014) - Fort Bend ISD recently launched a new website that contains several new features to help parents, students, and community members access District information in a quick and efficient way. With more than two and a half million visitors last year from approximately 150 countries, FBISD’s website is a vital communication tool for the District.

Some of the new features include:

• Global Icons, representing the most visited webpages, that appear on the top right corner of every page
• A Translate function to assist the District’s diverse population in receiving messages more clearly
• Dedicated Tabs for Community, Parents, Students, and Staff with organized information specific to their needs and interests
• Quick Links for popular webpages
• An Events section highlighting upcoming districtwide happenings
• Announcements and Headlines & Features sections with timely information
• A Search FBISD bar to assist users in locating information quickly

On each webpage, visitors will also find contact information for FBISD departments that will direct them to staff who can answer questions they may have.

As parents and students regularly visit their respective campus websites for information, they will notice periodic upgrades and redesign elements, most of which will occur during Phase Two of FBISD’s new website launch, coming soon.

For optimal user experience, modern browsers (such as Google Chrome, Safari, or Firefox) should be used when viewing the website. To visit the new FBISD website, go to www.fortbendisd.com.

July 17th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 17, 2014) - Attention Fort Bend County residents, there is a “rumble in the bumble!” Teams of three adults are buzzing around preparing for the 5th Annual Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee that will take place on Thursday, September 18, 2014 from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm at the University of Houston-Sugar Land.

Whether you lost your grade-school Spelling Bee and cannot wait any longer to redeem yourself, want to participate in a fun old-fashioned Bee to increase your knowledge, or want to show-off your superb spelling skills, the Bee is for you. For only a $500 team entry fee, a team of three spellers will win a place in our “Honey Hall of Fame” and the braggadocio rights as the “Best Grown-Up Spellers in the County.”

Feeling rusty on your spelling ability? Don’t worry. We will provide each team with a list of words to study prior to the Bee. Also, we are offering spell-agains, mulligans, and stingers for strategic teams to purchase to assist with any difficult words. Don’t “Bee” a “Humble Bee;” “Bee” a “Bumble Bee” and grab two of your co-workers, friends, or family members to join the fun as a team in our Bee.

Sponsorship and underwriting opportunities are available for this event, and they range in price from $5,000 to $75. In addition to regular sponsorships, we are offering smaller sponsorships, such as “Bee a Word Sponsor” for $200. At the $200 level, the sponsor will have a spelling word that is related to their business announced during the Bee as one of the spelling words. Bee a Word Sponsors will receive sponsor recognition on the website, at the event, admission and dinner for two. For $100, a sponsor can be a letter in our “A-Bee-C’s for Literacy” alphabet sponsorship opportunity. Two sponsor opportunities are available for each letter of the Alphabet. “A-Bee-C’s for Literacy” sponsors have the chance to claim the first letter of their business name, last name, children’s name, etc., and have that letter represent their business or their family. The “A-Bee-C’s for Literacy” will be displayed at the event, on the website; will receive admission and dinner for one. (more…)

July 17th 2014 Posted to Business News,Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 17, 2014) - The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) recently announced approximately 1,600 additional winners of 2014 National Merit Scholarships financed by colleges and universities, and among them are five Fort Bend ISD high school graduates.

FBISD’s 2014 Additional College-Sponsored Merit Scholarship Winners are:

• Alexander Aitken – Clements High School, National Merit University of Texas at Dallas Scholarship
• Michael LoPiccolo – Clements High School, National Merit University of Texas at Dallas Scholarship
• Tanner McKerlie – Clements High School, National Merit University of Nebraska – Lincoln Scholarship
• Alay Shah – Hightower High School, National Merit Baylor University Scholarship
• Olivia Wright – Austin High School, National Merit Texas A&M University Scholarship

These Merit Scholar designees join approximately 2,500 other college-sponsored award recipients who were announced in late May. Officials of each sponsor college selected their scholarship winners from among the finalists in the National Merit Scholarship Program who will attend their institution. College-sponsored awards provide between $500 and $2,000 annually for up to four years of undergraduate study at the institution financing the scholarship.

This year, 181 colleges and universities are sponsoring about 4,100 Merit Scholarship awards. Sponsor colleges include 106 private and 75 public institutions located in 44 states and the District of Columbia. This final group of winners brings the number of 2014 National Merit Scholars to more than 7,600. These distinguished high school graduates will receive scholarships for undergraduate study worth a total of approximately $33 million. In addition to college-sponsored awards, two other types of National Merit Scholarships were offered—2,500 National Merit® $2500 Scholarships, for which all finalists competed, and more than 1,000 corporate-sponsored Merit Scholarship awards for finalists who met criteria specified by their grantor organizations.

July 17th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 17, 2014) - Texas shoppers get a break from state and local sales taxes on August 8, 9, and 10 - the state’s annual tax holiday. As in previous years, the law exempts most clothing, footwear, school supplies, and backpacks priced under $100 from sales and use taxes. Given the few exemptions, families can take advantage of the Sales Tax Holiday and purchase back-to-school items for their children, with a possible savings of $8 for every $100 they spend.

For more information on the Sales Tax Holiday/Tax-Free Weekend and to view lists of qualifying sale items (that can be purchased online, by telephone or mail), visit window.state.tx.us/taxinfo/taxpubs/taxholiday/d/.

July 17th 2014 Posted to Business News,Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 17, 2014) - The Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees recently approved four new school leaders. Joining the FBISD school leadership team are: Jennifer Kapral, associate principal at Lake Olympia Middle School; Theresa Bathe, assistant principal at Highlands Elementary School; Yvette Huerta Mendoza, assistant principal at Holley Elementary School; and Julie O’Hara, assistant principal at Ridgemont Elementary School.

Jennifer Kapral most recently served as a program director at Raise Your Hand Texas, a non-profit education advocacy organization that supports public education in Texas. Prior to that, she served as an assistant principal and coordinator/teacher at the International High School at Sharpstown in Houston ISD. Kapral received her Bachelor’s degree in Politics and Philosophy from the University of Pittsburgh and her Master’s in Education Leadership from the University of St. Thomas.

Theresa Bathe has devoted more than 30 years to education, having served as a first- and second-grade team leader, and a fifth-grade Special Education teacher at Meadows Elementary School. She has also worked as an envision Math curriculum reviewer for Scott Foresman Publishing Company. Bathe earned her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Sam Houston State University and her Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Texas A&M University.

Yvette Huerta Mendoza most recently served as a fifth-grade dual language teacher at Taylor Ray Elementary School in Lamar Consolidated ISD. Prior to that, she served as a bilingual teacher at Rosa Parks Elementary School and also completed her student teaching at Burton Elementary School in Fort Bend ISD. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Bilingual Education and her Master’s degree in Administration and Supervision from the University of Houston.

Julie O’Hara brings a wealth of leadership experience to Fort Bend ISD, having worked as a summer school principal, fifth-grade math and science teacher, an At-Risk specialist/testing coordinator, and a math/science instructional specialist for Cypress Fairbanks ISD. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Integrated Science from Grand Valley State University and her Master’s degree in Education Management from the University of Houston.

July 17th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Local educators establish careers in their alma mater school districts

Written by Taylor McLaughlin | Photography by Sylvia Garza

Sugar Land, TX News - For Fort Bend ISD and Lamar CISD educators and school staff, a connection to their home district runs deep, and for those returning to their alma mater, the meaning of community and school pride resonates. These staff members love their schools both past and present and are eager to help build their students into the community’s strong leaders of tomorrow.

Lilian Mason
Head Dance Director
Stephen F. Austin High School
Class of 2008
It wasn’t that long ago when Lilian Mason graduated from Stephen F. Austin High School where she was a captain on the Austin Angels Dance Team. Her love for dancing began when she was 3 years old. She fondly remembers her senior year and their last performance alongside the band. “That final performance was absolutely incredible, and the feeling of dancing right next to my best friends is one that I will treasure for the rest of my life,” Mason shares. She briefly studied elementary education at the University of Texas, but quickly transferred to the University of Houston to pursue a degree in dance. While studying, Mason returned frequently to teach, choreograph, and hold clinics for the Angels.

Becoming the Director
In 2012, Mason followed in the footsteps of her most influential teachers, Betsy Heathcock and Kristina Tarman, replacing Heathcock after her retirement. It was no question that Mason would apply for the position once it opened. She explains that she “already loved everything about AHS - the faculty, the dance program, the traditions, and the students.” It was her first choice.

Now as the director, Mason collaborates creatively with other Fort Bend ISD dance directors. Although she loves to channel different aspects of the job, getting to know her students personally is what ultimately keeps her driven. “As their dance teacher, I get to know them in a more relaxed setting. They can talk to me about real life issues.”

“Every time the dance team takes the field now, I remind them that this opportunity is unique and special.” - Lilian Mason

Rhett Gray
Administrator for Truancy/Dropout Prevention
Lamar CISD
Class of 1978
For Rhett Gray the phrase “no place like home” is not just an old saying, but a daily reminder of why he chose to return to Lamar CISD after his 1978 graduation from Lamar Consolidated High School. Thirty plus years ago, Gray “saw a great opportunity to make a difference in young people’s lives.” He returned to the community that in his opinion “cares about one another and [provides] opportunities for all of us to be successful.” Although other offers came his way, none were as good of a fit as Lamar CISD. (more…)

July 16th 2014 Posted to Community Blog,Sugar Land Education,Sugar Land Inspirations |  Email This Post

Fort Bend Cares, a local charitable foundation, celebrates 10 years of service to disadvantaged youth

Written by Crystal Rawls

Sugar Land, TX News - The first Fort Bend Cares fundraiser almost didn’t happen. Threatening thunderclouds rolled in above the golf green that spring day in May 2005 and organization co-founders and fundraising novices Bob McLendon and Jim Rice considered canceling the event. But McLendon’s faith wouldn’t let the pair quit so easily.

“Bob and I held a brief discussion, and he said, ‘We need to step forward in faith and hold the golf tournament,’” says Rice. “The sky cleared up, and we held the golf tournament netting $15,000. We donated all of this money to the Boy Scouts.”

Local charities are recipients of Fort Bend Cares’ grants

An Act of Faith
In 2005, McLendon and Rice were simply two doting dads trying to do a little more to fund their sons’ Boy Scout troops. But after that first golf tournament, they realized their newly formed organization had the capacity to help so many more.

“As we continued our work, we realized there were many children who were not in Boy Scouts who also were in need in our community and decided that Fort Bend Cares’ mission needed to expand to fill this gap,” says Rice.

Filling the gap required rolling up their sleeves. Bob and his wife Gail spearheaded the organization’s growth, recruiting volunteers, planning fundraising events, and promoting the organization’s cause. Rice admits the early years were a difficult balancing act of raising a family, maintaining a full-time job, and growing a grassroots organization. But the late hours and time-consuming planning was well-worth the effort.

“[It] reminds me of the story of an older man walking along the beach,” muses Rice. “Presently, he came upon a young boy who was busy throwing [dying] starfish that had washed up on the beach…back into the ocean. The old man observed there were more starfish on the beach than the young boy could save and asked him, ‘Do you think you are making a difference by doing that?’ to which the young man replied as he threw a starfish into the ocean, ‘It made a difference to that one.’” (more…)

July 16th 2014 Posted to Community Blog,New to Sugar Land,Sugar Land Inspirations,Sugar Land Worklife |  Email This Post

Miss Sugar Land 2014 brings healing and encouragement through Hands to H.E.A.R.T., utilizing art restoration therapy

Written by Gail G. Collins

Sugar Land, TX News - When Chyna Wheatley was crowned Miss Sugar Land 2014, she wore a luminous, asymmetrical, beaded gown with chandelier earrings and a winning smile. Winning doesn’t always come on the first try, though. Wheatley’s success was the culmination of experience and perseverance from entering six competitions prior. “It was exciting to win, and the previous pageants prepared me to compete,” Wheatley says. Winning Miss Sugar Land qualified her to vie for Miss Texas and Miss America.

Although pageant entrants are gorgeous, they are also well-rounded. They show off their fitness and their talent; they stun in gowns and stand on platforms. Wheatley’s talent is art, painting on stage, and creating images that reflect her faith in overcoming odds. This led to the creation of Heal and Encourage through Art Rehabilitation Therapy (H.E.A.R.T.) or Hands to H.E.A.R.T. Wheatley explains her aim: “Art has a greater purpose, and I am called to raise awareness for domestic violence.”

Wheatley’s art was self-taught, until winning acceptance to Mississippi School of the Arts. Her family is rife with athletes, but her grandmother, an avid gardener, taught 8-year-old Wheatley how to draw a flower blooming from a pot on an Etch-a-Sketch. The child practiced until she could do it perfectly. Then, she drew it on paper, painted it, and gifted it to her grandma. “That first picture is a metaphor for the grounding and growth required to sprout - no matter the circumstances,” Wheatley says. This same determination drives her art therapy program.

Miss Sugar Land Chyna Wheatley is using her passion for art and creativity to help others suffering
from domestic abuse through her
organization, Hands to H.E.A.R.T.

Performance Art
Wheatley moved to Sugar Land to be near family and attend the Art Institute of Houston. She graduates in December and is pursuing a degree in interior design. She wants to meld art and design to develop recovery shelters for those abused both mentally and physically.

While at the institute, Wheatley has played up her focus on domestic violence and art. Setting up an easel in the lobby, she invites people to place their painted hands on a blank canvas, which creates a natural exhibit. “These canvases have often become the background for other performance art,” Wheatley says. “In this way, so many people have participated in portraying this art and creating awareness.” (more…)

July 16th 2014 Posted to Community Blog,Sugar Land Inspirations |  Email This Post

Former Texans linebacker shares his gameplan for a happy, healthy family

Written by Tonya Ellis | Photography by Sara Isola

Sugar Land, TX News - Billy Granville and his wife Gretchen of Sugar Land have always been sports enthusiasts. He played for the Cincinnati Bengals, and she ran the volleyball ministry for Athletes in Action, when they met after college. Little did they know that this interest in athletics would play a big role in how they’d run their family.

“Parenting, in a lot of ways, is like coaching,” explains Billy, who was the captain of his football team at Duke University. “If you coached each player exactly the same, your team wouldn’t be very successful. Each player is uniquely gifted, has specific strengths, weaknesses, and different ways they are motivated.”

Starting Lineup
Parents of six children ranging in age from 10 months to 14, the Granville’s days are action-packed to say the least. Life, 14, and Zoee, 13, attend Fort Bend Christian Academy, and Zion, 12, Macy, 10, and Maximus, 8, are students at Walker Station Elementary School. Champ, their 10-month-old, still stays home with mom.

“Each one of their personalities adds so much flavor to our family,” says Gretchen. “I cherish watching them interact with each other and encourage each other.”

Zion, Zoee, Gretchen, Billy, Life, Macy, Champ, and Max Granville work as a team to stay connected in their busy lives

Typical Days
The Granvilles take part in two sports or school activities each night of the week, with four activities on Tuesdays, so they generally have an early dinner. Afterwards, they have snacks, finish homework, bathe, lay out clothes, prepare lunches, and head to bed. The family, strongly rooted in their Christian faith, is also involved in their church. (more…)

July 16th 2014 Posted to Community Blog,Sugar Land Family Fun,Sugar Land Parenting |  Email This Post

Soak in the summer sun at some of Sugar Land’s delightful outdoor dining options

Written by Cherri Northcutt

Sugar Land, TX News - The lazy days of summer are upon us bringing a slower pace, a more casual attitude, and plenty of sunshine. It’s the perfect time to enjoy some great food and cool drinks with friends. What better way to do that than dining al fresco? Luckily, Sugar Land is home to a number of local eateries offering outdoor dining establishments where you can sample a variety of culinary delights.

The Livingstons take advantage of sunny summer afternoons and late sunsets, and enjoy al fresco dining

Bombay Pizza Co.
636 Hwy. 6, #100
281-242-1131 This local gem offers a unique fusion of Italian and Indian cuisine with pizzas you won’t find anywhere else. Owner Viral Patel says, “Summer is a great time to try the Gateway of India Pizza, with cilantro, mint chutney, tandoori chicken, and crab meat.” He recommends the Indian flatbread rolls. “It’s a party wrapped up in a piece of bread,” Patel says. Filling options include blackened chicken, veggie roll, sweet potato, or masala shrimp. The patio is a welcoming space for children and pets as well. Patel says, “We have a great view, and you can book the patio for parties.” (more…)

July 16th 2014 Posted to Community Blog,New to Sugar Land,Sugar Land Family Fun |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 16, 2014) - Season football tickets will go on sale for Fort Bend ISD’s 11 high schools in August. Tickets are valid for regular season games only (not post-season) and will be valid at Mercer or Hall Stadiums for all home and visitor games for that school. As before, the season ticket entitles you to your assigned seat at home games. When you are a visitor, the ticket will act as general admission to the game, with no assigned seating. After season ticket sales are over, the remaining chair back seats will be sold on a “first-come, first-served” basis. All tickets sold during the football season will be general admission tickets. Tickets sold at FBISD stadiums will cost $8.00 each. For the 2014 football season, parking will be free of charge.

• Online (credit or debit) purchases will be available through a link on our District website at www.fortbendisd.com on August 4. Please note that a convenience fee will be added to ticket purchase when processed online.

• Tickets will be sold (cash or check only) at the Wheeler Field House Box Office located in the FBISD Athletic Office (16403 Lexington Blvd., Sugar Land, 77479), from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday.

• On August 4-15, only season ticket holders from 2013 can purchase tickets for seats they held in 2013.

• On August 18-28, all remaining season tickets will go on sale to the general public on a “first-come, first-served” basis. Season ticket sales for all Fort Bend ISD high schools will end on August 28 when the first game kicks off the 2014 season. (more…)

July 16th 2014 Posted to School News,Sports News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 16, 2014) - The Ladybugs helped to spread joy to patrons in hospice, retirement, and general healthcare at the Richmond Healthcare Center recently in Fort Bend. The group provided fun games and prizes, sang songs, and brought each patron fresh baked pastries and chocolates, Mardi Gras beads, magazines, toiletries, new socks, and other items to help brighten their day. The Ladybugs, a social/civic group in existence since 2007, flutters to local area facilities to offer encouragement, motivation, and lots of hugs and warm smiles. They help the patrons to participate in various activities or entertainment that they provide, and let them know that they are being thought about.

Ladybugs in attendance at this particular event at the Richmond Healthcare Center included (l to r): Dr. Eugenia Blomstrom, Milly Jones, Dee Dee Blomstrom, Velvete Rojubokan, and Ladybugs founder/coordinator, Vicki Latham.

The Ladybugs are now in the process of collecting teddy bears to hand out to handicapped patrons at local area facilities at Christmas time. In order for this to be a success like last year, the group starts their collection in the summer. If you have new or gently used teddy bears that you would like to donate, please contact the ladybugs coordinator, Ms. Latham at [email protected], for information on where to drop off your teddy bear donations.

July 16th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 14, 2014) - The Texas Association of Municipal Information Officers recently named Sugar Land’s citizen newsletter and website as the best in Texas.

Since its inception in 2002, the TAMI awards have served to recognize outstanding municipal government achievements in communications, marketing, and constituent relationships. The program also serves as an important forum for exchanging information and ideas among government professionals.

Judges credited Sugar Land Today and the City’s website as benchmarks for public education and citizen engagement.

Sugar Land Today is an informative newsletter that provides important news and an overview of the many services and programs the City provides its residents. The quarterly newsletter is mailed to all residents and businesses within the city limits, a distribution of approximately 34,000 addresses.

Articles cover important City issues such as flood control, hurricane preparedness, updates on city road projects, finances, major capital investment projects and updates, crime prevention initiatives, partnerships with other municipalities and government agencies, as well as upcoming events, public meetings, and parks and recreation activities. (more…)

July 14th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 10, 2014) - Fort Bend ISD trustee Jim Rice has earned the designation of Master Trustee upon completion of Leadership TASB, a program sponsored by the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB). During the fifth session, June 26-28, school board members in the 2013-14 Leadership TASB class made presentations of their team’s findings following year-long research. Class participants selected topics related to public school boards facing change and selected narrowed research fields for in-depth study. Their research focused on topics that included strategies to deal with school choice, creating advocacy programs that work, meeting the educational needs of all children, loss of local control, and embracing changing culture.

FBISD Board member Jim Rice, right, receives his Master Trustee recognition from Robert Duron, TASB Assistant Director for Governance Services, after completing the year-long Leadership TASB program.

The Leadership TASB class met in conjunction with TASB’s Summer Leadership Institute in Fort Worth. More than 1,000 new and veteran school leaders received extensive training on every facet of effective board governance, heard keynote addresses from renowned education experts, and picked up valuable ideas from district showcases and networking opportunities.

After the graduation ceremony June 27, participants joined the ranks of more than 700 school board members statewide who are Leadership TASB alumni.

The 2014 Leadership TASB class, composed of 31 school board members, represents Texas school districts of all sizes and property wealth. Participants who completed all required elements of the study program earned Master Trustee status, the highest designation recognized by TASB.

TASB is a voluntary, nonprofit association established in 1949 to serve local Texas school districts. School board members are the largest group of publicly elected officials in the state. The districts they represent serve more than 4.9 million public school students.

July 10th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 10, 2014) - Are you looking for a fun way to get involved with your community? Then we are looking for you to “Come on Board.”

The Fort Bend Junior Service League Sustainers will host their “Come on Board” 2014 Membership Coffee for prospective members on Tuesday, August 12, 2014 from 10:00 to 11:30 am at the home of Judy Maddison. Fort Bend ladies who are of the prime age of fifty and older are invited to come and join this great group of ladies.

If you are interested in becoming part of the Fort Bend Junior Service League through Sustainer Membership, then come and learn how meaningful it is to be part of the League and how you can help the Fort Bend community. Don’t worry if you can’t commit to set hours of volunteering, there will be something you can get involved in; whether it is volunteering at the Sugar Plum Market or Spring Fling; helping with raffle prizes, auction items, etc., or helping out at one of the League’s core non-profit organizations. For more information, please contact Mary Favre, Sustainer President, at [email protected].

July 10th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 9, 2014) - Are you interested in making a difference in the lives of children? July 28 to August 1 from 9:00 am until 4 pm daily, Child Advocates of Fort Bend is offering a week-long training class to train volunteers to advocate for abused and neglected children. This is your last opportunity this year to complete the volunteer training class in a single week.

Child Advocates of Fort Bend is a non-profit agency dedicated to providing a voice for abused and neglected children in Fort Bend County. With an army of volunteers, Child Advocates of Fort Bend currently serves more than 400 children each month through its Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Program and Children’s Advocacy Center.

Volunteers must be over 21 years of age, complete an application and interview, and submit to background screening. For more information or an application, please contact Volunteer Services at 281-344-5146 or [email protected].

July 09th 2014 Posted to Business News,Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 8, 2014) - After a months-long search, Missouri City Council members announced at their July 7 regular meeting that former Assistant Chief of Operations Mike Berezin would be sworn in as the City’s new Chief of Police on July 9 at the Public Safety Headquarters.

“Having been with the City for more than 25 years, I consider it an honor to work with my fellow Missouri City employees,” Chief Berezin said. “Council, for as long as I can remember, has always been supportive of my department, and I’m grateful to serve the City as Police Chief.”

Chief Berezin has been serving as the City’s Interim Police Chief since former Chief Joel Fitzgerald left to serve as the head of the Allentown, Pa., Police Department, in January of this year. Well-known for his leadership and exemplary service, Chief Berezin was promoted to his assistant chief position in 2011 and was in command of the Patrol and Criminal Investigation Divisions.

Image courtesy of Missouri City
City Council salutes Police Chief Mike Berezin at their July 7 meeting. Members from left: Chris Preston (At Large Position #2), Jerry Wyatt (At Large Position #1), Floyd Emery (District D), Chief Berezin, Yolanda Ford (District A), Mayor Pro Tem Robin Elackatt (District C), Don Smith (District B), and Mayor Allen Owen.

Throughout his tenure with the City, Chief Berezin has endeared himself to the countless citizens he has met while serving to protect the community. He quickly rose the ranks of the Missouri City Police Department, building his way up every rank in the department and climbing “every rung on the ladder,” as he puts it. Under previous leadership, he has helped the City become ranked one of the top 20 safest cities in Texas by Safe Wise, a company that specializes in security systems; and he helped facilitate the department’s participation in the City’s homeowners’ association outreach program.

Thanking Council for the opportunity to lead Missouri City’s finest, Chief Berezin said: “You’ve always been there to give the department positive critiques regarding enforcement.” (more…)

July 08th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 7, 2014) - It’s finally July, and that means one thing…Parks and Recreation Month is here. The City of Sugar Land’s Parks and Recreation Department invites everyone to meet the staff during its first Eat and Greet. The event will take place at the Parks and Recreation campus on July 26 from 11 am to 3 pm.

Participants may obtain information about classes, programs and services, parks, hike and bike trails, upcoming events, and much more.

Food will be available for purchase, and free activity booths and games for kids will be available throughout this event.

Instructors will be available to answer questions and provide demonstrations about classes offered by the Parks and Recreation Department. Tours of both the Imperial Park Recreation Center and the T.E. Harman Center will be ongoing throughout the event.

The Imperial Park Recreation Center is located at 234 Matlage Way next to Imperial Park and the T.E. Harman Center.

For more event information, contact the Imperial Park Recreation Center at 281-275-2885.

July 07th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 7, 2014) - Want to discover firsthand what it takes to be a police officer, get to know beat officers, and learn more about criminal investigation? Find out by signing up for the Sugar Land Police Department’s Citizens Police Academy and learn about traffic laws, crime scene investigations, and how to respond during an active shooter situation.

The 10-week course begins Sept. 11 and runs through Nov. 20. Students meet once a week at the police department, 1200 State Highway 6 South, from 7 - 10 pm. The curriculum includes weekend courses that include mock building searches and simulated traffic stops.

While learning about the challenges faced by police officers, laws affecting citizens, the judicial system, and emergency management, participants personally interact with officers, detectives, and other personnel in a nontraditional law enforcement setting.

The training program consists of classroom and “hands-on” instruction designed to provide interested Sugar Land citizens with a working knowledge of the SLPD, its personnel, and emergency management operations.

Topics taught during the academy include the following:

• USE OF FORCE / WEAPONS/ SWAT: Students are given instruction concerning the legal use of weapons. Students view various types of weapons used by police officers and learn common language and phrases used by police.
• CITIZENS’ RESPONSE TO ACTIVE SHOOTER EVENTS (CRASE): Learn what to do during an active-shooter situation, how to survive, how to get away, and how to save others. (more…)

July 07th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 2, 2014) - The City of Sugar Land and the Sugar Land Development Corporation have approved an incentive package to support major new plans by Nalco Champion, an Ecolab company, to consolidate its Houston-area offices and centralize its headquarters in Sugar Land, a move that brings in more than $45 million in investments and over 860 new jobs.

Nalco Champion will build a new approximately 133,500-square-foot facility with 1,000 parking spaces. Existing buildings will be reconfigured to maximize office space, accommodate supply chain needs, and create additional space for the expansion of the company’s research and development (R&D) facilities. The new building and parking lot will be located partially on the 18.5 acres Nalco Champion purchased from Johnson Development in 2013. Construction is expected to be completed by early 2016.

Additionally, Nalco Champion will make substantial rail spur improvements to assist City of Sugar Land efforts to gain Union Pacific Railroad approval for the extension of University Boulevard north of U.S. Highway 90A.

The company decided to centralize its headquarters in Sugar Land after a comprehensive evaluation of other regional opportunities.

“Nalco Champion is proud of its long history in Sugar Land and all that the city offers,” said Steve Taylor, EVP and president, Nalco Champion. “We very much look forward to making Sugar Land our home for Nalco Champion and are ecstatic to have the opportunity to welcome so many new employees to this incredible community.” (more…)

July 02nd 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 2, 2014) - On Monday, June 16, Missouri City’s new five-person motorcycle unit officially began patrolling City streets and neighborhoods. Created as a way to stealthily target traffic violators, the new motorcycle unit allows the City’s dedicated patrol vehicles to concentrate on watching City subdivisions and businesses.

Members of the Missouri City Police Department have identified areas within the City where frequent traffic violations occur; members of the motorcycle unit will be used not only as a way for the City to curb rising traffic violations and accidents but also as an educational outreach program.

“The newly formed motorcycle unit offers another opportunity for us to be responsive to the concerns of our community, specifically concerns regarding the safety of our roadways,” Interim Chief of Police Mike Berezin said.

Image courtesy of Missouri City

The five-person unit is made up of Sergeant Tracy Cox, Officer Michael Bukowski, Officer Robert Lawson, Officer Ben Lampe, and Officer Brian Norwood, each of whom have gone through Accident Investigation and Reconstruction School and Victory motorcycle training in Tucson, AZ.

“This unit fills a definite need within the City. Between 2012 and 2013, we saw a 50 percent increase in traffic accident,” Assistant Police Chief Keith Jemison said. “These four officers and one sergeant will be located in various Missouri City neighborhoods and communities, which is where we actually receive most of our calls and complaints regarding traffic.” (more…)

July 02nd 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 2, 2014) - Sugar Land City Council approved a $225,000 contract with Jerdon Enterprise, L.P. for improvements identified in the Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan.

Projects to be constructed this year include:

• buffered bike lanes on Grants Lakes Boulevard, Bayview Drive, and Sugar Lakes Boulevard;
• shared bike lanes on Alston Road; and
• side paths along University Boulevard that connect existing bike lanes to Telfair Avenue.

City Council approved the Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan last year after a recommendation from an 11-member citizen task force. The recommendation was based on significant public input from a variety of activities, including:

• an online survey that resulted in more than 375 responses;
• an online mapping activity that resulted in more than 1,000 comments;
• nine stakeholder meetings;
• a public meeting with more than 50 attendees; and
• an Online Town Hall.

The plan identifies a future network that includes 24 miles of bike lanes, an additional 18 miles of on-street shared lanes for bicycles, and 128 miles of pedestrian and bike paths

The network of pedestrian and bicycle routes will focus on connecting key destinations such as schools and commercial areas. In addition, the plan identifies areas for improved crossings at major barriers such as U.S. Highway 59, State Highway 6, U.S. Highway 90A, the railroad, and the Brazos River.

For more information about Sugar Land’s Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan, visit www.sugarlandtx.gov/pedbike.

July 02nd 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 1, 2014) - With Independence Day just around the corner, the Emergency Department at CHI St. Luke’s Health – The Vintage Hospital urges everyone to practice safe and responsible use of fireworks. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), approximately 8,700 firework-related injuries were treated in emergency departments in 2012.

“Fireworks create a great risk for injury,” says Dr. Darrell Calderon, Section Chief, Emergency Department at CHI St. Luke’s Health – The Vintage Hospital. “Most injuries include burns on fingers, hands and legs, and eye and face injuries.”

The CPSC suggests the following safety steps:

• Make sure the fireworks you want to buy are legal in your area before buying or using them.
• Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees, which is hot enough to melt some metals. Always have an adult closely supervise fireworks activities if older children are allowed to handle devices.
• Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks. Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap. After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding the device to prevent a trash fire.
• Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly. Never try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Soak them with water and throw them away.

“It is important for us to keep our community out of our Emergency Room,” said Dr. Calderon. “Our hope is that everyone has a safe and happy Fourth of July without any incidents,” he concluded.

July 01st 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (July 1, 2014) - Looking for a new volunteer opportunity? The Literacy Council of Fort Bend County needs you. Do you love planning and organizing? They are looking for new faces and fresh ideas for future events. Or is your passion helping others directly? You might be a great fit for the Tutor Training Program. Join the team for happy hour at Fabulous You Boutique in Sugar Land on July 17^th at 6 pm for wine and cheese, shopping, and to find out more about the different ways you can be involved. For more information and to be placed on the guest list, contact Cari Middaugh at 281-240-8181 or [email protected].

July 01st 2014 Posted to Business News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 30, 2014) - Sugar Land is accepting applications for the new Parks, Art, Recreation, Culture, and Streetscapes (PARCS) Board.

City Council approved the creation of the board on June 17. The new PARCS Board expands the duties of the previous Parks and Recreation Advisory Board to include a focus on developing a public art plan, evaluating future funding sources for the arts, and establishing a granting program.

The nine-member board will offer an opportunity for citizens to help guide parks, recreation, and cultural initiatives by providing input, feedback, and advice on projects and programs that enrich the visual and aesthetic environment of the City.

The board will provide guidance for long-term planning, goals, and objectives for parks, recreation, public art, cultural activities, streetscapes, and urban forestry programs.

Citizens selected by City Council will work with the City to develop recommendations that:

• enhance leisure and cultural opportunities;
• preserve natural resources; and
• create a park system that meets the needs of the community by providing green spaces, recreation, art, and culture.

Ideal candidates should possess skills and qualifications related to parks, art, recreation, culture, and streetscapes. Examples include people who have served as a parks, art or recreation advocate; landscape architect; architect; interior designer; urban planner; fine arts professional or educator; arts historian; administrator or curator; business or education leader; or philanthropist.

Applications may be submitted at www.sugarlandtx.gov through July 18 at 5 p.m.

June 30th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 27, 2014) - Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine in Sugar Land offers their annual sports physicals for Fort Bend and Alief Independent School Districts’ middle school and high school athletes. They have been associated with these school districts for more than 15 years as team physicians.

University Interscholastic League (UIL) requires all high school athletes to undergo and pass a physical examination prior to participating in sports.

Physical evaluations include testing height, weight, vision, blood pressure, pulse, ears, nose, throat, heart, lungs, abdomen, spine, and all joints in the upper and lower body. Physicians discuss the athletes’ medical history and consult with them and their parents if further evaluation is necessary prior to releasing them to participate in sports.

D. Dean Dominy, III, M.D., Hand & Upper Extremity, Orthopedic Surgery; Kenneth M. Renney, M.D., Sports Medicine; Jeffrey B. Wood, M.D., Orthopedic Spine Surgery; Eddie T. Matsu, M.D., General Orthopedics, Joint Replacement Surgery; Mark W. Maffet, M.D., Knee and Shoulder Surgery, Sports Medicine; Timothy C. Sitter, M.D., Knee and Shoulder Surgery, Sports Medicine; Vincent C. Phan, M.D., Hand & Upper Extremity, Orthopedic Surgery; Carl A. Hicks, M.D., Joint Replacement Surgery; Ray R. Valdez, M.D., Foot & Ankle, Orthopedic Surgery; David A. Braunreiter, M.D., Sports Medicine, Concussion Management; Anthony J. Muffoletto, M.D., Orthopedic Spine Surgery and Jeffrey A. Kozak, D.O., Sports Medicine, Concussion Management.

“We truly enjoy working with the schools in Fort Bend County,” said Dr. Vincent Phan, orthopedic surgeon and team physician. “I grew up here and actually went to Elsik High School, so it is an honor to come back and support the players. We look forward to continuing to support these school districts.”

Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine in Sugar Land generously donates proceeds that are generated from the physical examinations back to the school’s athletic training programs. In the last five years, this group of physicians has donated more than $250,000 back to local schools. Athletic trainers use this money to purchase the necessary equipment they need for the upcoming school year in addition to what their budget allows. (more…)

June 27th 2014 Posted to Business News,Health News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 27, 2014) - An Independence Day celebration came early for students enrolled in the Bilingual and English as a Second Language summer school program at Burton Elementary School. During the week of June 23, the students completed activities focusing on the importance of Independence Day and what it means to be a proud American. To commemorate their studies, the students took part in an indoor parade, where they dressed in patriotic attire. They also gathered in the school’s cafeteria to perform chants and songs for their parents and summer school staff.

“The teachers and staff did an outstanding job of incorporating Independence Day activities within the guidelines of our summer school program,” said Elizabeth Williams, Summer School Principal at Burton Elementary School. “Students were actively engaged in many hands-on experiences, and just truly enjoyed themselves.”

Pictured (left to right) are: students Jorge Garcia, Juan Monge, and Marissa Magana; Rosy Martinez, Summer School Facilitator; and Elizabeth Williams, Summer School Principal.

June 27th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 27, 2014) - Fort Bend ISD named Chris Morgan as the new principal of Kempner High School. Most recently, Morgan served as principal of FBISD’s Bowie Middle School after serving as principal of Garcia Middle and Walker Station Elementary Schools. Prior to coming to Fort Bend ISD, Morgan was a principal in Irving ISD and began his teaching career 20 years ago.

“I’m very excited about joining the Kempner High School family,” said Morgan. “I am looking forward to working with the incredible staff and continuing the culture of academic excellence that has been established at Kempner. Go Cougars!”

Morgan received his Master of Education in Administration from Texas Women’s University and his Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology from Stephen F. Austin State University. He is currently attending Rice University’s Educational Entrepreneurship and Leadership Program.

June 27th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 27, 2014) - Fort Bend ISD Administrative offices and campuses will be closed the week of June 30 through July 4. The District will resume its summer four-day schedule (Monday - Thursday from 7:30 am until 5:30 pm) on Monday, July 7. This schedule will be in operation through the week of July 28 (August 1 being the last Friday we are closed). FBISD will resume regular work hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm) on Monday, August 4.

June 27th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 26, 2014) - Sugar Land City Council recently approved a resolution adopting revisions to the City’s Financial Management Policy Statements, a document that addresses ten key areas of financial management and provides direction in managing finances.

The statements were first adopted in 2002 and reflect City Council’s vision for the City. They are reviewed and adopted semi-annually. The process takes several months of detailed review by finance staff and the council finance/audit committee, with revisions reviewed by the entire City Council in a workshop setting before adoption.

Rating agencies have noted the policy statements — and the City Council’s willingness to abide by them — as contributing factors in the strong financial management of the city and the resulting AAA rating assigned to the City’s outstanding debt by both Fitch Ratings and Standard & Poor’s.

The AAA on tax-backed debt is the highest rating attainable and results in lower borrowing costs for the city when bonds are issued for capital projects.

June 26th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 25, 2014) - As part of their summer learning experience, students enrolled in Bilingual/English as a Second Language classes at Mission West Elementary School took part in a multicultural festival to recognize and celebrate the diverse population represented in the summer program. Students in 21 classrooms joined school staff and parents in the celebration that featured cultural artifacts and exhibits, spirited song and dance performances, and cultural meals prepared by parents and staff members representing countries from around the world. Participants also wore traditional garments representing their native land.

“The multicultural festival was a rewarding experience for everyone involved,” said Jennifer Spears, Summer School Principal at Mission West Elementary School. “Our students, staff and parents were eager to share various aspects of their cultures and learn about others as well. It was an exciting summer activity for us.”

Shown (from left to right) are: Eryad Bachachi, Summer School Principal Jennifer Spears, Malia Bachachi, Shalimar Bachachi, Nijad Bachachi and Talla Ameen.

June 25th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 25, 2014) - Michael Yaakovian, M.D., is joining Drs. Timothy Oppermann and Ashish Saharia at Methodist Department of Surgery, effective in July.

He comes to Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital from Kaiser Permanente Healthcare in Baltimore, where he was a general surgeon and director of the wound care unit.

Michael Yaakovian, M.D.

Dr. Yaakovian is board certified by the American Board of Surgery. He performs a broad range of surgeries and procedures including colon surgery, breast surgery, gall bladder surgery, hernia surgery, skin and soft tissue surgery, colonoscopies, and upper endoscopies.

“We are excited to have someone of Dr. Yaakovian’s background and skill set join our team,” says Dr. Oppermann. “He is a talented surgeon who recognizes the importance of providing personalized, hands-on care to his patients.”

Dr. Yaakovian is a graduate of Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, and he completed his residency and an internship in general surgery at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, where he also served as a research fellow in trauma/critical care. He later completed a fellowship in minimally invasive surgery at the University of Texas Medical School in Houston and served as an assistant professor of surgery at the school before accepting the position at Kaiser Permanente.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Yaakovian, call 281-275-0860. His office is located in Medical Office Building Three on the Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital campus, 16605 Southwest Freeway, Suite 450.

June 25th 2014 Posted to Business News,Health News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 25, 2014) - Fort Bend ISD is seeking qualified parents to serve on its Language Proficiency Assessment Committees (LPAC) for the 2014 - 2015 school year. Serving on the committee gives parents the unique opportunity to offer input regarding placement, review, assessment, and end-of-year decisions concerning students who are English Language Learners (ELLs).

To qualify, you must be a parent or guardian who:

• has a child actively participating in the English as a Second Language (ESL) program
• is not employed by Fort Bend ISD

There are currently openings on committees at various FBISD campuses. For more information, contact Yunghee Choi at 281-634-1553 or [email protected].

June 25th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 23, 2014) - Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital recently celebrated the official groundbreaking on a new 60,000-square-foot home for Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine.

The state-of-the-art facility – on the corner of Highway 59 and Sweetwater Boulevard – will allow Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine to move from its current location on Highway 6 and Brooks Street to the Houston Methodist Sugar Land campus, with easy access to the hospital and its diagnostic imaging and other services.

Anthony J. Muffoletto, M.D., Orthopedic Spine Surgery; Jeffrey A. Kozak, D.O., Sports Medicine, Concussion Management; D. Dean Dominy, III, M.D., Hand & Upper Extremity, Orthopedic Surgery; Vincent C. Phan, M.D., Hand & Upper Extremity, Orthopedic Surgery; Eddie T. Matsu, M.D., General Orthopedics, Joint Replacement Surgery; Timothy C. Sitter, M.D., Knee and Shoulder Surgery, Sports Medicine; Lindley Cramer, Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Practice Administrator; Carl A. Hicks, M.D., Joint Replacement Surgery; Jeffrey B. Wood, M.D., Orthopedic Spine Surgery; Ray R. Valdez, M.D., Foot & Ankle, Orthopedic Surgery; Mark W. Maffet, M.D., Knee and Shoulder Surgery, Sports Medicine; Kenneth M. Renney, M.D., Sports Medicine and David A. Braunreiter, M.D., Sports Medicine, Concussion Management.

“Orthopedics and sports medicine are among the fastest growing specialties of care in Fort Bend and Southwest Houston, and this amazing new facility will be a tremendous benefit to our patients, bringing all our related services together at one site on the hospital campus,” said Chris Siebenaler, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital CEO.

In addition, the new building will include space for physical therapy, occupational therapy, aquatic therapy, an outside training facility for athletes recovering from injury, a sports medicine urgent care clinic, and a sports performance training program. The building is expected to be completed in the summer of 2015. (more…)

June 23rd 2014 Posted to Business News,Health News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 20, 2014) - Speaking to a packed house on Thursday, June 5, at the City Centre at Quail Valley, Missouri City Mayor Allen Owen delivered his 2014 State of the City Address, highlighting citizen partnerships that have been pivotal to the City’s diverse success and economic development.

Highlighting a range of accomplishments and reflecting on completed goals in his speech, Mayor Owen presented to a wide range of local business leaders such as representatives from the event’s presenting sponsor, Muller Law Group; to area elected officials such as Council members from Missouri City and other Fort Bend cities, Fort Bend ISD Trustees, State Representatives, and Congressmen.

The event was hosted in partnership with the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, a long-standing partner of the City that has been vital in welcoming new businesses to Missouri City and hosting various events highlighting the City’s economic development. Chamber Chairman Glenn Smith was on hand to present several of the day’s speakers, including Mayor Owen. Members of the City’s Senior Planning Council were also honored by Mayor Owen as an example of a partnership the City has developed to benefit residents and promote the City’s core principles of City First, Communication and Collaboration.

“Our story is one that features a diversity of strong partnerships. Every day, City officials and staff collaborate to provide excellent services to citizens, businesses, and stakeholders,” Mayor Owen said. “Utilizing strategic policies and goals, City leaders adhere to an alignment to achievement approach, thereby ensuring continuous progress across all operations, including public safety, fiscal management, infrastructure improvements, economic development initiatives, parks programs, and citizen outreach projects.” (more…)

June 20th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 19, 2014) - Are you looking for something meaningful to do this summer and interested in making a difference in the lives of children? July 28 to August 1 from 9:00 am until 4 pm daily, Child Advocates of Fort Bend is offering a week-long training class to train volunteers to advocate for abused and neglected children. This is your last opportunity this year to complete the volunteer training class in a single week.

Child Advocates of Fort Bend is a non-profit agency dedicated to providing a voice for abused and neglected children in Fort Bend County. With an army of volunteers, Child Advocates of Fort Bend currently serves more than 400 children each month through its Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Program and Children’s Advocacy Center.

Volunteers must be over 21 years of age, complete an application and interview, and submit to background screening. For more information or an application to participate in the Flex Training, please contact Volunteer Services at 281-344-5172 or [email protected].

Gearing up for training (L to R) are: Child Advocates of Fort Bend CASA staff members Carol Thesing, Heather Rashid, and Casey Davis.

June 19th 2014 Posted to Business News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 18, 2014) - The Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees approved a $561,700,652 operating budget for the 2014 - 2015 school year at its June 9 regular business meeting. The FBISD budget reflects an increase in the property values of the District and is designed to provide educational services for a projected 72,317 students. The 2014 - 2015 budget is balanced and fiscally conservative while still supporting Board priorities and instructional programs. The 2014 - 2015 district budgeted cost per student is $7,767 with more than 64 percent of the budget allocated to instruction.

Included in the budget is a minimum of four percent salary increase for all teachers and an increase in the starting teacher salary to $50,000 from $46,500 that the Board approved in April. This budget also provides adjustments to the Teacher Salary Schedule to provide greater consistency in raises as teachers advance in experience. Additionally, the approved budget includes a salary increase for all other staff that is four percent of mid-point. As stewards of taxpayer funds, Fort Bend ISD designed this balanced budget to meet need to be competitive and recruit the best and brightest, while being frugal with taxpayer funds.

Budget includes new positions for the 2014 - 2015 school year
The budget includes the addition of 395 new campus positions – 253 teachers and 142 campus support staff – and 57 non-campus staff to address identified district priorities. Many of the new campus positions address class size, significant special education concerns, and counselor workload. Some positions address the needs of schools with growing enrollments. By adding more outclass teachers, assistant principals, and other supporting jobs, the District will better ensure smooth campus operations at our larger schools. (more…)

June 18th 2014 Posted to Community News,School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 18, 2014) - At its regular June meeting, the Lamar CISD Board of Trustees approved Brian Gibson as the new principal of Velasquez Elementary.

Prior to becoming principal at Velasquez, Gibson served as an assistant principal at Edgar Glover Jr. and Sugar Mill elementary schools in Fort Bend ISD. He also taught 2nd and 4th grades, and served as a campus math specialist in Fort Bend ISD.

Gibson earned his bachelor’s degree at Sam Houston State University and master’s in Education Administration from Prairie View A&M University, where he is pursuing his doctorate in Educational Leadership.

Brian Gibson is named the new principal of Velasquez Elementary

June 18th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 17, 2014) - Since the creation of the City’s new Animal Shelter in the fall of 2013, the assistance provided to the City’s lost and homeless animals has been provided in many interesting and creative ways, many of which were the result of the tireless work the City’s dedicated Animal Control officers provide. One prime example of a creative and strategic animal rescue occurred this May, when Missouri City Staff was able to partner with two dog friendly volunteer agencies to rescue a homeless, broken-legged husky who was found within City limits.

Toward the end of May, Missouri City Animal Control officers found a friendly husky wandering around with a broken leg. Despite his injury, the dog showed no signs of timidity and jumped right into the Animal Control vehicle.

Staff and Animal Shelter volunteers quickly appealed to local husky, sled dog, and Eskimo dog rescues to seek treatment for the dog’s broken leg, which, despite its severity, had not brought the cheerful dog’s spirit down. A group in Carrollton named the Texas Husky Rescue offered to help the dog, but it was unable to provide a means of transportation.

“We immediately sent out pleas through social media and personal contacts looking for transportation for the dog,” Missouri City Animal Control Supervisor Juan Acevedo said. “After hours of searching, miraculously Pilots and Paws, a group of private pilots that fly dogs to rescues, agreed to fly the husky to Carrolton over the weekend.”

Missouri City Animal Control Officer Richard Perez delivered the dog to the ArcolaAirport early one Saturday morning, where the husky was flown by Pilots N’ Paws to his new home in Carrollton. The dog received a new name, Red, was treated and put up for adoption.

Residents interested in visiting the Missouri City Animal Shelter, can contact Acevedo via phone at 281-403-8707 or email [email protected] to set up an appointment.

June 17th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 16, 2014) - At its Monday, June 2, Regular Meeting, Missouri City Council Members heard a presentation on the proposed Fiscal Year 2015 budget and listened to a run down of the previous year’s financial standings. Council will vote to approve the new budget today, June 16, at 7 pm in Council Chambers, 1522 Texas Pkwy.

“The City’s proposed budget is the culmination of months of planning, difficult discussions, continued revisions, and challenging thinking to gauge, prioritize, strategize, and eventually put into action programs and services for the citizens of Missouri City,” City Manager Ed Broussard said. “Adoption of the annual budget is one of the most important actions of the Council each year as it provides a road map to City staff and citizens on what the City will do the next year. It is a connection between the long-range plans of the community and the annual revenues the City expects to collect.”

In the FY 2015 proposed budget, the City will maintain its current tax rate of $0.57375; have total revenue of $38,531,087; and have total expenditures of $39,386,459.

Highlights include: (more…)

June 16th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 16, 2014) - Tickets to Fort Bend County’s largest Independence Day fireworks and family entertainment show are still available. The Star Spangled Spectacular is set for July 4, from 7 - 10 pm.

The festivities will culminate with a 15-minute patriotic display that will light the sky over Constellation Field, 1 Stadium Drive, home of the Sugar Land Skeeters.

Fort Bend Salutes America, a group of regional musicians, will perform patriotic music for the capacity crowd just prior to the start of a pyrotechnic display rivaling any in the region.

It’s a show described as constant action — radiant color combinations like violet/lemon; aqua/pink; and the time-honored tradition of red, white, and blue. Amazing effects such as crossette, twitter glittering, rings, and color-changing chrysanthemums will be mixed in to illuminate the skies in Sugar Land.

The grand finale is intended to be the ultimate crowd pleaser and the most exhilarating part of the display. The sky will erupt with multi-color peonies and thunderous salutes expected to leave the audience wanting more. (more…)

June 16th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 13, 2014) - At the Regular Fort Bend ISD Board Business Meeting on June 9, the FBISD Board of Trustees reviewed a long-range Master Capital Plan presentation to prioritize the District’s capital needs that include: construction, security, technology, and transportation projects, as well as facility and educational adequacy deficiency improvements over the next decade.

The priorities in the Master Capital Plan were developed as part of a three-phase plan and based on significant community engagement for developing a Facilities Master Plan, a Security Master Plan, and a Technology Master Plan. These plans served as guides in prioritizing the immediate and long-range capital needs for the District. The administration also discussed with the Board their recommendation to call a November 2014 bond election for Phase One of the plan in the range of $333.4 million.

Preliminary plans for the Phase One capital needs for the next three years include:

• $279.8 million for construction projects: new construction of elementary schools in Aliana and Riverstone, as well as two other schools; classroom additions, current facility deficiencies, educational adequacy deficiencies, and building system life-cycle needs;
• $34 million for security and safety upgrades: security cameras, security vestibules, window film, security fencing, access control, emergency generators, new emergency notification system, and others;
• $15.7 million for transportation needs: bus cameras, bus global positioning systems (GPS), and new school buses;
• $65.7 million for technology infrastructure: Internet infrastructure upgrade, wide area network refresh, data center SAN and virtualization, data center facilities modifications, wireless network deployment, local area network refresh, and others;
• $18.4 million for land purchases; and
• $19.2 million for other needs: athletic facility life-cycle replacements, white fleet vehicle replacements, energy conservation initiatives and bond support. (more…)

June 13th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 12, 2014) - From 8 am to noon on Saturday, June 14, Missouri City will partner with Missouri City Green and Texas Green Giant to sponsor the next Electronic Recycling event at the Public Safety Headquarters, 3849 Cartwright Road.

The previous electronic recycling event, held on January 11, drew more than 250 residents and 28 City-wide volunteers. Following the success of the previous electronic recycling event, the City has expanded the program to include a data cleansing service for a fee of $10 per hard drive; drives will not be returned to residents.

To view a list of acceptable and non-acceptable recycling donations, visit the Missouri City website at missouricitytx.gov and click on the event’s calendar listing. For more information on the event, visit missouricitygreen.org.

June 12th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 11, 2014) - Sugar Land police are looking for a vehicle that hit a 24-year-old woman traveling in the eastbound lane of Lexington Boulevard near Riverbend Crossing just after midnight today.

When police arrived, the woman was lying face down in the roadway and bleeding from her face. There was a damaged bicycle next to her and a large amount of broken glass on the roadway. The woman couldn’t remember what happened. She was transported by ambulance to Memorial Hermann Hospital in the Medical Center.

Police believe the woman was hit by a vehicle, and the driver did not stop to render aid. Several people who saw the woman in the road stopped to help, but said they did not see the vehicle that hit the woman.

Anyone with information should call the Sugar Land Police Department at 281-275-2020 or Fort Bend County Crime Stoppers at 281-342-TIPS (8477).

June 11th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 11, 2014) - Tucanos Brazilian Grill, a festive, family friendly Brazilian steakhouse, announced plans for a month-long celebration of the 2014 FIFA World Cup™. Tucanos will celebrate Brazil hosting soccer’s world championship with activities for the whole family, featuring a decidedly Brazilian flair. The limited-time celebration will include special World Cup menu items and “tailgate” carryout packages, daily in-restaurant viewing parties, an online social media contest, and the introduction of what may be the next “must-have” World Cup souvenir - the caxirola. The caxirola - created in the image of the caxixi, a traditional Brazilian percussion hand instrument – is a rhythmic noisemaker that has been dubbed the official musical instrument of this year’s World Cup in Brazil.

Tucanos restaurants may be one of the few places where caxirolas will be available since the instruments have been banned from World Cup venues for “safety reasons” due to some fans throwing them at players, coaches, and other fans.

World Cup enthusiasts can get their own caxirola at Tucanos Brazilian Grill in a number of ways:

• Entering a social media contest through Tucanos’ Facebook page
• Attending viewing parties at your nearest Tucanos restaurant
• Reserving carryout orders for special World Cup package meals
• Participating in a youth Soccer Shoot-out on July 12
  (Promotions and special events may vary; caxirola giveaways while supplies last.) (more…)

June 11th 2014 Posted to Business News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 11, 2014) - Fort Bend ISD recently named Laureen Sanford as the new principal of Holley Elementary School. For the past two years, Sanford has served as assistant principal of FBISD’s Meadows Elementary and was assistant principal of Commonwealth Elementary for three years prior to that. She has 14 years in education, all in Fort Bend ISD, and started her career as a third-grade teacher.

“Laureen is an exceptional leader, and I’m excited about the experience and ideas she’ll bring to the Holley Elementary family,” said Dr. Javier Villarreal, FBISD Assistant Superintendent.

Sanford received her Master’s degree in Administration and Supervision from the University of Houston-Victoria, and her Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Houston-Downtown.

June 11th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 10, 2014) - Service days for bulky waste pickup will change for all residents on August 4, 2014.

Bulky waste service is provided once a month for items too large to fit in the garbage cart. Bulky waste does not include construction, demolition, or hazardous wastes.

Some residents will also have a new day for recycling, but collection days for garbage and green waste will not change.

The changes are detailed at sugarlandtx.gov/solidwaste, and residents will receive information by mail that includes a magnet detailing the new service schedules.

Automated recycling service is provided once a week utilizing a City-issued green cart with a wide range of materials being accepted, including:

• all colors of glass bottles and jars;
• newspapers, magazines, catalogs, phonebooks, office paper, school paper, mail, paperback books;
• cardboard, paperboard, and paper bags;
• steel and tin cans (labels are ok);
• aluminum cans, foil, and food trays; and
• plastics #1-5, 7.

Green waste collection is also provided weekly. The green waste program ensures all green waste — grass clippings, leaves, brush, tree limbs, etc. — will be recycled rather than sent to a landfill. Green waste materials should be placed in a reusable container or tied bags; compostable bags are not required.

June 10th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 10, 2014) - From June 15 - 21, Missouri City will participate in the 2014 International Fire/EMS Safety and Health Week. Safety and Health Week is a joint initiative of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) and the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC). The event is coordinated by the IAFC Safety, Health and Survival Section and the NVFC and is supported by a network of fire service, health, and safety organizations.

This annual event aims to improve firefighter safety and health to give all a better chance of survival during emergencies and long-term. Fire departments across the world will take time during the week to increase awareness and action so that safety and health become a priority in all fire departments.

“Missouri City’s Fire and Rescue Services Department is dedicated to living up to our slogan of Service, Honor, Commitment. We cannot say them unless we accept responsibility and are willing to hold each other accountable for their meaning,” Fire and Rescue Services Chief Russell Sander said. “These three words are the hallmark of accountability each member of MCFRS should embrace. We are accountable to our families, each other, and our citizens.” (more…)

June 10th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 9, 2014) - From 6 - 9 pm on Friday, July 4, Missouri City invites citizens to flock to Buffalo Run Park for an exciting day of family friendly activities, patriotic games, delicious food, and the always popular firework show.

The annual Fourth of July Celebration and firework show will once again take place at Buffalo Run Park, 1122 Buffalo Run Blvd. This year’s celebration will include moonwalks, rides, a rock wall, mechanical bulls, a trackless train, and human hamster balls.

Food such as shaved ice, barbecue, funnel cakes, tamales, and crepes will be available for purchase via cash only. The evening will end with a fireworks show at approximately 9:15 pm; parking and stadium seating will be available at Thurgood Marshall High School.

June 09th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News,Uncategorized |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 6, 2014) - Mission Glen Elementary School (MGE) third-grader, Eric Martinez, received a 2014 Academy Star Student award as a “runner up” in the awards program sponsored by EPS Literacy and Intervention’s Academy of Math. The award honors students who have overcome significant challenges to build proficiency in math, as well as teachers who go above and beyond on a daily basis to provide their students with every opportunity to improve their skills.

Pictured with award honoree Eric Martinez are: (from left to right) Assistant Principal Melissa Mehall, Special Education Teacher Chastity Gonzalez and Principal Kari Bruhn.

MGE Special Education teacher, Chastity Gonzalez, has worked closely with Martinez challenging him daily in math through the online EPS Math Academy, and the hard work has paid off. EPS representatives Peter Cleary and Lynne Cook presented Martinez with the award on May 22.

June 06th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 5, 2014) - The UH Sugar Land Transition Team has begun its work in earnest with the appointment of Work Group members. UH System Chancellor Renu Khator has reviewed and invited a diverse group of University and community stakeholders to participate in this important effort. A complete list of the members engaged with each of the Work Groups is included on the website: uhsa.uh.edu/sugarlandtransition.

The Steering Committee, led by Paula Myrick Short, senior vice chancellor for academic affairs for the UH System, reviewed the charge of each of the four Working Groups in an initial meeting with the members. Short emphasized the importance of an open and transparent process, with broad engagement and communication with all stakeholders.

The 19-member UH Work Group, under the leadership of Earl Smith, interim chief health officer at UH, is working toward the smooth transfer of the UH-Victoria nursing program to the University of Houston. Current plans are to make the transfer effective Sept. 1, 2014. The Work Group is identifying the tasks and changes necessary to mitigate the impact on nursing students, faculty, and staff.

The 30-member UH Victoria Work Group, led by Charles Alcorn, director of corporate and foundation relations at UHV, has begun its work to develop a proposal to make UHV a self-sustaining destination university. The Work Group has established subcommittees to envision and recommend realistic goals and plans to achieve the transformation of UHV from a two-year senior university and extension operation to a four-year destination university. A national consulting firm is being contracted to assess the costs required to implement the transformation. (more…)

June 05th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 5, 2014) - Former NFL players are making their way into area classrooms to promote healthy eating habits among students. J.J. Moses, former Houston Texans Kick Returner, and Don Trull, former Houston Oilers Quarterback, recently surprised students at Brazos Bend Elementary School with a visit as part of the Gridiron Legends Fit for Life Program.

Pictured (from left) are Don Trull, PE Teacher Sandra Arreola, Brazos Bend Principal Ida Ford, Assistant Principal Stephanie Viado and J.J. Moses.

Presented by Kelsey-Seybold, the program promotes healthy living and an active lifestyle through a fun-filled, interactive presentation. Moses and Trull spoke to students in grades 3-5 about the benefits of eating a healthy diet and surrounding themselves with positive people. Trull also demonstrated his athletic ability by throwing passes to students throughout the presentation.

June 05th 2014 Posted to Health News,School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 5, 2014) - Kristi Corbitt has been named Fort Bend ISD’s Director of Elementary Curriculum. She began her career in education 10 years ago as a teacher at Seven Hills Elementary in Northwest ISD. In 2009, she was named assistant principal at Walker Station Elementary School and also served in that position at Burton Elementary School prior to receiving her new position.

Kristi Corbitt, Director of Elementary Curriculum

“I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to support and work collaboratively with FBISD teachers and staff in creating a positive learning environment where students can reach high academic goals,” said Corbitt. “In my new position, I will continue to support school staff as we work toward our common goal.”

Corbitt received her Master of Arts in Education in Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Texas at San Antonio and her Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of North Texas.

June 05th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 5, 2014) - Melissa Fields, coach of the Terry High Lady Rangers basketball team, is the 2014 4A Outstanding Coach of the Year in Texas.

Fields received the Dean Weese Outstanding Coach Award from the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches May 16 at the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches Annual Clinic.

The award is named for Texas basketball legend Dean Weese, a member of the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, winning 10 state titles, four national college titles, and four National Women’s Invitational Tournament titles.

The Lady Rangers were 22-10 on the season and reached the Regional semifinals, the furthest the team has ever gone in the playoffs.

Fields is finishing up her 18^th year at Terry and has been in teaching and coaching for 23 years.

June 05th 2014 Posted to School News,Sports News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 5, 2014) - Steve Shiels has been named the Director of College and Career Readiness for Fort Bend ISD. Most recently, Shiels served as the College and Career Readiness Director in Pflugerville ISD. Prior to that, he was a high school lead counselor in Pflugerville ISD and a middle school lead counselor in Austin ISD. He also served as a counselor in the Chicago Public Schools system for several years after working as a case manager and therapist in Illinois. Shiels began his career as an English teacher in Umea, Sweden.

Shiels received his Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Trinity International University in Illinois, and his Bachelor of Arts in Government and Broad Field Social Studies from Lawrence University in Wisconsin.

June 05th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 4, 2014) - Missouri City residents will soon have convenient access to Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s leading emergency care capabilities.

The new state-of-the-art Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center opens July 15 in the heart of Missouri City, at 8200 Highway 6 between the Sienna Plantation and Riverstone communities. The center will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week to treat patients of all ages who are ill or injured.

The 9,600-square-foot facility includes 10 private treatment rooms, full-service X-ray, CT, and ultrasound capabilities.

Most importantly, Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center is staffed by board-certified emergency medicine physicians specializing in emergency care from pediatric to geriatric patients, working alongside specially trained nursing and ancillary staff with extensive experience in emergency care.

“The new Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center gives Missouri City residents a first-class ER right in their own neighborhood,” says Chris Siebenaler, CEO of Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “Patients treated at the new center will have direct, expedited admission to Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital if needed, along with personal assistance from patient representatives in scheduling necessary follow-up appointments. And the center will accept all insurance plans that are in-network with Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.” (more…)

June 04th 2014 Posted to Business News,Health News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 4, 2014) - A new soccer program offered this spring at Armstrong Elementary School is giving young girls the opportunity to get active, while building self-esteem and friendships. Thirty fifth-grade girls take part in the program, meeting once a week after school to play soccer and have fun socializing with each other.

Pictured are participants of Armstrong Elementary School’s soccer program.

Data Specialist Callie Day and Paraprofessional Elsa Villarreal thought of the idea after realizing that the girls needed an afterschool outlet that would allow them to be active and build friendships. With the support of their Armstrong Principal Lori Craig and Student Wellness Coordinator Stephanie Kellam, the idea became a reality. Kellam secured donations of soccer equipment (including soccer balls, goals, cones, bags and water bottles) from UnitedHealthcare, who now serves as the program sponsor. A team manager was selected and second-grade teacher, Vanessa Villalobos, also joined forces with Day and Villarreal in creating positive experiences for the girls. (more…)

June 04th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 4, 2014) - Highlands Elementary School hosted its 23^rd Annual Multicultural Parade of Nations and Festival that welcomed many students, staff, parents, and community members to a celebration of cultures. This year’s theme, “Diversity at Work: Our School was Built on It,” reflects the school’s proud heritage of embracing people representative of cultures from around the world. The theme was prominent throughout the celebration and appeared on t-shirts that were proudly worn by parents and staff.

Parade leaders pictured (from left) with their “Kids Are First” banner are students Mason Soto, Olivia Luhnau, Samantha Uschold, Kayla Moya, Olivia Flores, Josephine Griffith, Trace Hankins, Brady Culberson, Austin Sanchez and Preston Oliver.

The annual event gives participants an opportunity to share in Highlands’ rich culture by taking part in a parade of nations highlighting students and teachers from all grade levels dressed in ethnic clothing, an assembly featuring sing-a-longs and slide presentations, and a festival of cultural foods, games, rides, and other fun activities for families to enjoy.

June 04th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 1, 2014) - Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital celebrated the official groundbreaking for its new six-story patient tower in May.

The new tower – part of a $131 million expansion effort under way at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital – will add 104 beds, primarily for intensive care and medical/surgical patients, and will provide space for future growth as needed. Once the new tower joins the Main and Sweetwater Pavilions on campus, the hospital’s total capacity will reach 347 beds.

“Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital continues to grow to meet the needs of the community,” says CEO Chris Siebenaler. “Our investment in new facilities, like our new patient tower, enables us to continue to expand our service offerings and provide the latest and most sophisticated procedures right here in Fort Bend.”

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Team breaks ground on new six-story patient tower

The new tower should be open for patients in the Spring of 2016.

The patient tower is just one of five major projects included in the hospital’s current expansion plan, which also includes construction of a new 60,000-square-foot facility for Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, expansion and relocation of the Heart Center and a stand-alone Emergency Care Center to serve residents of Missouri City. (more…)

June 03rd 2014 Posted to Community News,Health News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 3, 2014) - Hunters Glen Elementary School students proudly completed their first marathon, which was held on their campus during Physical Education classes. The students ran a mile (an equivalent of four laps around the block) during PE class each day, with many students running more than a mile.

Shown with the Hunters Glen marathon runners are Principal Angela Dow, PE teacher Lewis Rhone (left), and Music teacher Theresa Grayson (right).

“The students didn’t think they could actually complete the entire marathon,” said Coach Lewis Rhone, “but once I explained how the mile could be divided into smaller distances, they were excited to join in.”

Hunters Glen Elementary thanks the marathon sponsors, including H-E-B and BlueCross BlueShield, who helped make the event enjoyable for students.

June 03rd 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (June 2, 2014) - The Sugar Land Skeeters announced today that the club has acquired former Major League outfielder Brian Barton from the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs in exchange for future considerations. The announcement was made by Skeeters Manager Gary Gaetti.

Barton, 32, joins Sugar Land after playing 30 games for Southern Maryland this season, hitting .131 (14 x 107) with two home runs and seven RBI. The California native is currently in his fifth season of Atlantic League play, having spent time with Southern Maryland (2011 - 2014), as well as Bridgeport (2010) and Newark (2010). In his 446 career Atlantic League games, the outfielder is hitting at a .295 (492 x 1669) clip with 218 RBI and 73 stolen bases. Over his 10 professional minor league seasons, Barton owns a .294 (1042 x 3541) average with 182 stolen bases and 508 RBI in 985 games.

Known for his community involvement and charitable efforts, Barton also wrote and published his first book “Mindset” while with Southern Maryland in 2012. The book, inspired by his time spent with troubled youth in the St. Louis area, is intended to encourage thought and self-awareness of influencing factors of the mind while suggesting courses of action to overcome mental weakness. (more…)

June 02nd 2014 Posted to Sports News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (May 30, 2014) - Oakland Elementary School students and staff are enjoying a new playground pavilion thanks to the generous donations and efforts of school supporters. The new structure was funded with donations from the Waterside Estates Community Association, Fort Bend County Mud District No. 118, Oakland Elementary’s Physical Education Department, and the school’s PTO.

Shown during the ribbon cutting ceremony are (from left) Jason Kirby, Fort Bend County Mud District No. 118; students Avery Smith and Gavin Allen; Romain Barski, President of the Waterside Estates Community Association; Wendy Perry, former Oakland PTO Board Member; and (back) Lori Hoeffken, Oakland Elementary School Principal.

The school hosted a dedication ceremony in April to reveal the new playground pavilion. More than 1,100 students joined school administrators and staff, as well as former principal Barbie Herrington, in gathering to give thanks to those responsible for the structure. Fifth-grade Student Council members Gavin Allen and Avery Smith opened the ceremony giving thanks to the special guests. The school choir sang a special song written by music teacher, Tory Randle, with assistance from fourth and fifth-grade choir members; and Principal Lori Hoeffken presented special guests with plaques in appreciation of their contributions. Following the dedication ceremony, guests enjoyed a reception organized by counselor Tonichia Jackson.

Oakland Principal Lori Hoeffken thanks the honored guests.

May 30th 2014 Posted to Community News,School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX (May 29, 2014) - The Friends of the University Branch Library recently presented a check for $3,970 to the University Branch Library to help underwrite the costs of special programming for the library’s Summer Reading Club and for family cultural events planned throughout the year. On behalf of the Friends organization, Kathy Novosad presented the check to Joyce Berger, Youth Services Manager of the library.

Other members of the Friends organization who were also present were Renee Mathews, Israel Kaboga, and Ed Rubenstein, along with staff from the library’s Youth Services department.

The money will be used by the library to help fund family programs, cultural events, and materials not included in the regular budget. Many of the extremely popular programs during the library’s Summer Reading Club are made possible thanks to money donated by the Friends organization.

The Friends organization raises funds for the library through quarterly book sales and annual membership dues. New members are always welcome, and board positions are available for interested volunteers. (more…)

May 29th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (May 29, 2014) - Teachers often wonder how students will respond to classroom lessons and whether they will apply the skills and information they receive to their personal lives. So when Oakland Elementary School second-grade teacher Janet Lavong learned that her student Carson Padilla turned a classroom lesson into a charitable event, she was thrilled.

Lavong presented a study unit on homeless and charitable deeds to her class, and unbeknownst to her, the unit made a big impression on Padilla, who decided to make his “Changers Group” a reality. His charity of choice was the Ronald McDonald House Charities, which provides shelter and support to families of hospitalized children. With the help of his parents and residents of Waterside Estates, Padilla raised $1,200 from the sale of Rainbow Loom bracelets that he made and sold at his neighborhood’s annual garage sale. An area businessman matched Padilla’s amount by $1,000, making the total amount Padilla donated to the Ronald McDonald House, $2,200.

Padilla is shown with his mother, Kerry Padilla at the Ronald McDonald House Charities facility.

“My husband and I are thankful that Miss Lavong helped Carson tap into his charitable side and see that he can help make a difference in the world,” said Kerry Padilla. “He’s already making plans for next year’s charitable event.”

May 29th 2014 Posted to Community News,School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (May 29, 2014) - The inaugural class of the Texas Hospital Association’s Leadership Fellows Program was recently announced in Austin and includes a local health care luminary.

Malisha Patel, Chief Operations Officer at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, was one of 24 hospital executives selected for a year-long program designed to promote the professional development of health care leaders and position them to drive health care innovation. THA’s Leadership Fellows program brings together health care leaders from around the state for a focused study in becoming effective health care advocates for Texas hospitals and the communities they serve.

Malisha Patel

“We are proud of the role we play in serving the health care needs of Sugar Land and today we are proud to have Malisha Patel representing Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital in THA’s Fellows program to ensure we are doing even more to influence the future of health care,” said Greg Haralson, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital CEO.

(more…)

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Sugar Land, TX News (May 28, 2014) - Although Hurricane Season starts in four days on June 1; our region is already experiencing heavy rains and flooding.

According to the National Weather Service, Missouri City and the entire Fort Bend area is expected to experience heavy rainfall and potential flooding throughout the week.

The NWS Storm Prediction Center is forecasting a risk of severe thunderstorms this afternoon and evening across parts of the Gulf Coast. Damaging winds and large hail will be the main threats to citizens, with periods of heavy rainfall and frequent lightning expected as well.

Citizens are encouraged to limit their driving and outdoor activities as much as possible when flooding conditions occur. Various roads throughout the City have already begun to flood, and citizens are encouraged to take alternate routes until the water has receded.

Working to safeguard families when severe weather strikes our area; Missouri City emergency management officials are prepared to respond to any crisis. Officials caution residents to review and update emergency preparation plans and to inspect supply kits and stock up on necessary items such as non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, radios, first-aid kits, cell phones, chargers, maps, and important documents. Additionally, officials advise that gathering pertinent information will help prepare your family for unpredictable emergencies. They also would like to share the useful tips below: (more…)

May 28th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (May 28, 2014) - Tristan Gray, star shortstop for the Elkins Knights’ varsity baseball team, was preparing for his all-important senior season when he dislocated his knee cap in a preseason practice.

Fortunately for Gray, Elkins athletic trainer June Tomlin was at practice that day. She responded immediately, and once Gray was stabilized, she called team physician Dr. Timothy Sitter on his cell phone and alerted him.

When the Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital orthopedist examined Gray, he determined that the injury was not season-ending but would require physical therapy. Dr. Sitter outlined an extensive physical therapy program, and twice a day at school, Tomlin worked with Gray on the appropriate conditioning and strengthening exercises.

When the season started, Gray was back in peak condition, and he proved it by being named co-MVP of District 23-5A and signing a national letter of intent to play baseball at Rice University.

Gray was fortunate to have an experienced, licensed athletic trainer onsite at the time of his injury, one with a direct connection to one of the area’s leading sports medicine specialists. Now, thanks to a unique partnership between Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital and Fort Bend Independent School District, that comprehensive approach to athletic injuries will now be possible across the district. (more…)

May 28th 2014 Posted to Health News,School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (May 28, 2014) - Eight Lamar Consolidated Independent School District seniors each received a scholarship from the Lamar Consolidated Educational Secretaries Association, LCESA, at the group’s annual End of School Year Luncheon at the Fort Bend Country Club in Rosenberg.

Lamar Consolidated High School’s Victoria Cavazos and Chiamaka Ujari, Terry High’s Clayton Gardovsky and Marcella Quinones, Foster High’s Mallory Soto and Alyssa Stone, and George Ranch High’s Tiffany Silva and Alexander Davis will all continue their education with help from the Association’s $500 scholarships.

2013-2014 Scholarship Winners - Front Row: Alyssa Stone, Mallory Soto, Tiffany Silva, and Chiamaka Ujari.
Back Row: LCESA president Melissa Rodriguez, Alexander Davis, Victoria Cavazos, Marcella Quinones, Clayton Gardovsky and LCESA Scholarship Committee Chair Becky Melendez.

Each year, the Lamar Consolidated Educational Secretaries Association awards scholarships to one deserving student at each Lamar CISD high school.

“This is the first year that the Association has been able to award two scholarships per high school and it’s something that we wish to continue,” said Becky Melendez, Scholarship Committee Chair. (more…)

May 28th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (May 27, 2014) - As the Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) concludes its 2013 - 2014 League year, it is pleased to announce that it has raised over $400,000 for the Fort Bend County community this year and over $2.7 million since the League’s inception in 2001. Proceeds were raised through various fundraising events, including Sugar Plum Market, FBJSL Spring Fling, and sales of the League’s second cookbook, “Treasures from the Bend, Rich in History and Flavor.” The League also received funds as a beneficiary of Tucanos Brazilian Grill fundraiser and Sugar Land Town Square’s Taste of Town Square. Additional funds were raised in conjunction with partnering organizations, including David Crockett Middle School, Sugar Land Middle School, and Kempner High School in a collaborative effort with Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital (HMSLH) to benefit the American Cancer Society (ACS). Numerous worthy Fort Bend County charities benefited from the League’s donations. In addition to funds donated back to the community, FBJSL members volunteered over 20,000 hours during the 2013 - 2014 League year.

Front Row (L-R): Treasurer Ashley Joshi-Patel, President-Elect Katrina Sayes, President Debbie Buckner, Past-President Cindy Dempster and Director of Provisionals Mimi Zaybak.
Back Row (L-R): Director of Membership Mindi Zemanek, Director of Member Development Dana Clement, Secretary Soni Karamchandani, Director of Community Relations Heather Carroll, Director of Publicity Caroline Bordelon and Vice-President Hillary Watson.

FBJSL is currently hosting its annual membership drive and invites ladies interested in membership to attend events scheduled for this summer. An informational meeting will be held on June 19th at Flying Saucer located in Sugar Land Town Square at 6:00 pm. A second informational meeting is scheduled for July 17^th at a location to be announced at 6:00 pm. These meetings provide an opportunity to learn about the League and membership volunteer opportunities and requirements. For more information, please contact the Director of Provisionals at [email protected] or visit www.fbjsl.com.

Ladies age 50 and above are eligible for Sustaining membership in the League. Interested ladies are invited to attend the annual Sustainer Membership Coffee this summer. For more information about this event or Sustaining membership, please contact the Sustainer President at [email protected].

May 27th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (May 27, 2014) - Fort Bend ISD recently named Jessica McMullen as the new principal of Schiff Elementary School. Prior to coming to FBISD, McMullen served as principal of an Alvin ISD (AISD) elementary school for two years and as an assistant principal at another elementary school for four years. She was named Principal of the Year in AISD in 2013. McMullen’s goal is to influence academic, social and personal growth of her students, teachers, and other administrators through leadership, instruction, empowerment, and engagement.

“I am truly humbled by the great honor entrusted to me by this wonderful district to lead this amazing family of students, educators, parents, and community toward continued success at Jan Schiff Elementary,” said McMullen. “I absolutely love what I do because I have the unique privilege to make an impact in the lives of children and teachers each and every day, and I look forward to celebrating our achievements in the future that will be the result of the collective efforts by all.”

Jessica McMullen, Schiff Elementary School Principal

McMullen began her teaching career 12 years ago as an elementary teacher in Hudson ISD, with responsibilities including Math Department Chair, Campus Trainer, and District New Teacher Trainer and Curriculum Writer. She also taught at both the middle and high school levels at Hudson ISD, and was very involved with various extracurricular activities and competitions.

(more…)

May 27th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (May 27, 2014) - Dr. Anthony Indelicato was named Assistant Superintendent at Fort Bend ISD’s May 19 Regular Board Meeting. Indelicato is currently the principal at Kempner High School, which he’s led for the past four years. Previously, he worked as an Educational Leadership Specialist at Region 4, as both a principal and assistant principal in Klein ISD, and as an adjunct professor at Sam Houston State University. Dr. Indelicato began his education career as an art teacher.

“Anthony brings successful middle school and high school experience to the Assistant Superintendent role,” said Dr. Christie Whitbeck, Deputy Superintendent. “He has shown strong leadership and collaboration with his peers and community. We look forward to his addition to our team and know that his contributions will help move our district to the next level of excellence.”

Dr. Indelicato received his Bachelor of Fine Arts from Southern Methodist University and a Master of Fine Arts from the University of North Carolina. He received both his Master of Education in Administration and Doctorate of Education from Sam Houston State University.

May 27th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (May 27, 2014) - Next Level Urgent Care recently opened its fourth Fort Bend County clinic in Long Meadow in Richmond, Texas, continuing its mission to provide a cost-effective alternative to emergency room care for a wide range of illnesses and injuries.

“Our clinic, which is located on FM 99 between West Belfort and Bellaire, provides an easily accessible location for people who need medical care quickly,” said Juliet Breeze, MD, Next Level Urgent Care CEO and Medical Director. “Most medical problems do not require an emergency room visit, we provide an alternative solution that can save patients time and money.”

“Our neighborhood clinics, which are designed around patient comfort, provide an alternative for the treatment of non-life threatening complaints that is faster and an average of six times less expensive than a trip to the emergency room,” Breeze added. “Costs vary depending on your plan, but typical copay with us is $25-$75, compared with $150-$500 for an emergency room. Additionally, we don’t charge uninsured patients more than $200 total for a single visit and that includes doctor’s fees, X-rays, stitches, and other services.”

(more…)

May 27th 2014 Posted to Business News,Health News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (May 23, 2014) - After making so many trips to the hospital that their entire family was on a first-name basis with the staff, Frank H. and Linda Marsters, III, established the Marsters’ Nursing Excellence Award at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital. Created to recognize the quality, family-centered care received by their extended family, the Marsters presented the 2014 award to Lori Foster, B.S.N., during Nurses’ Week celebration at the hospital.

The couple’s tie to Memorial Hermann Sugar Land began more than 30 years ago. Raising adventurous twin boys and an asthmatic daughter in Quail Valley, the Marsters made frequent trips to what was then Fort Bend Hospital.

“When I say I raised two boys, I’m not kidding,” laughs Linda as she recalls broken bones, stitches, surgeries, and even one son who required a police search when he hid in the oven while playing hide-and-seek. “The hospital has such a family-like atmosphere that is also very professional, warm, and caring.” (more…)

May 23rd 2014 Posted to Business News,Health News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (May 23, 2014) - Child Advocates of Fort Bend was thrilled to receive a $100,000 grant from the Houston Endowment to be spread over two years for public awareness and age-specific programming. Community awareness of child abuse continues to be very low in Fort Bend County. Many in the community believe that abuse “doesn’t happen here,” particularly with all of the awards and recognition that Fort Bend County has received as one of the top places to live in the United States. Community outreach and education of adults, children, and those individuals who work directly with children is insufficient. Part of the grant will be used to address this issue by increasing awareness of Child Advocates of fort Bend through community outreach projects and educating health care professionals, educators, and childcare providers on signs and symptoms of abuse, their obligation to report abuse, how to report, internet safety for children, parental controls on social media, and what happens when a child is taken into custody in Fort Bend County, among other things. (more…)

May 23rd 2014 Posted to Business News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (May 23, 2014) - The City of Sugar Land will hold a community meeting on June 2, from 6:00 - 7:30 pm, at the Imperial Park Recreation Center, 234 Matlage Way, to discuss possible plans for Gannoway Lake Park.

The 70-acre community park is located near the intersection of Voss and Burney Roads along Oyster Creek and could provide opportunities for passive, nature-oriented recreation.

The property’s potential connection to a network of hike and bike trails, its proximity to several residential developments, and the abundance of natural features on the property could facilitate activities such as hiking, bird watching, fishing, and canoeing.

Area residents are encouraged to attend the public meeting, learn about potential plans for the park, and provide input.

The project is currently included in the City’s Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan as potential parkland.

A conceptual plan for the property is being developed for planning purposes. Feedback from this process will be presented to City Council in the future, and funding for the project will be discussed.

May 23rd 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (May 22, 2014) - The Literacy Council of Fort Bend will host a summer buy one, get one free book sale beginning Monday, June 2, 2014 through Friday, August 15, 2014. Summer office hours are Monday through Thursday 8:30 am – 9:00 pm and Friday 8:30 am – 1:00 pm. All profits from the summer buy one, get one free book sale support the free public programs available through The Literacy Council of Fort Bend County. Programs benefiting include: Basic Literacy, English as a Second Language, GED preparation classes, and US citizenship preparation classes.

There will be a tremendous variety of books, both hardbacks for $1 and paperbacks for $.50, most in fabulous condition. Many look like they have never even been opened so they would make great (and inexpensive) gifts. Offered at the sale will be fiction, non-fiction, biographies, cookbooks, books on spirituality, kids’ books, summer reading books, puzzles, and more. The Literacy Council of Fort Bend accepts gently used book donations year-round, so please think of this organization if it’s time to winnow your collection or if you’re moving.

The summer buy one, get one free book sale will be held at The Literacy Council of Fort Bend County, 12530 Emily Court, Sugar Land. For more information on the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County, including area programs offered, please visit ftbendliteracy.org or call 281-240-8181.

May 22nd 2014 Posted to Business News,Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (May 21, 2014) - On Wednesday, May 14, Fort Bend ISD completed a refinancing of 2004 bonds that will save the District an estimated $15.2 million in interest. With the assistance of the District’s financial advisor, First Southwest, the transaction took advantage of a favorable market and the savings were substantially higher than what was originally projected. The bond refinancing was approved by the Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees in June 2013. Additionally, the District will have the opportunity to pay off $7.7 million of debt early without increasing its debt service tax rate of $0.30.

“We are dedicated to managing our resources in a manner that is proactive, prudent, and conservative,“ said Charles Dupre, Fort Bend ISD Superintendent of Schools. “I am thrilled that this refinancing will save FBISD taxpayers over $15 million in interest, which will help our tax rate remain one of the lowest in the Houston area and allow us to address the district’s growing enrollment without a significant tax increase.”

In addition, through the bond rating process, Standard & Poor’s upgraded the District’s credit rating from AA to AA+. Fort Bend ISD is one of only 15 public school districts in Texas that has a rating of AAA or AA+. According to Standard & Poor’s, the upgrade reflects Fort Bend ISD’s ongoing economic growth and strong financial performance. (more…)

May 21st 2014 Posted to Community News,School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (May 20, 2014) - Three new trustees were elected to the Fort Bend ISD School Board on May 10 and were sworn in during the May 19 board meeting. The three new trustees were elected to serve three-year terms.

The new trustees are:

• Jason Burdine – Position 1, who resides in the west side of the District.
  
  
• Kristin Tassin – Position 4, which is an at-large position.
  (more…)

May 20th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (May 19, 2014) - The 2014 Children at Risk Rankings have been released and Fort Bend ISD is ranked fourth among the 13 large school districts in the Greater Houston area. Additionally, five FBISD schools are among the top 10 schools, and 25 earned an “A” letter grade. Districts and campuses are ranked on student achievement, campus performance, and student growth.

Children At Risk strives to improve the quality of life of children across Texas through strategic research, public policy analysis, education, collaboration, and advocacy. Since 2006, its ranking system has highlighted the successes and need for improvement of local public schools. The rankings not only provide a tool to parents and students, but also provide information to campuses and districts on how they perform relative to their peers and compared against successful models of high-performing public schools.

Children at Risk awarded the top 10 high schools and the top five middle and elementary schools in the Greater Houston Area at an awards ceremony. Five FBISD principals were also honored with certificates commending their schools’ performance and ranking on the 2014 Children at Risk Ranking Lists. Principals Gene Dupont (Colony Meadows Elementary School – 2^nd), Joanna Hagler (Commonwealth Elementary School – 7^th), Julie Diaz (Fort Settlement Middle School – 2^nd); Dr. Jennifer Nichols (Sartartia Middle School – 4^th), and David Yaffie (Clements High School – 8^th) received certificates on behalf of their FBISD schools. Their schools also earned an “A” letter grade based on the Children At Risk rankings. (more…)

May 19th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (May 16, 2014) - For her dedication to the children of Williams Elementary, Nancy Nowak was honored May 8 at the Houston Chronicle’s Salute to Nurses luncheon.

Sponsored by CHI St. Luke’s Health and Houston Methodist Hospital System, the luncheon honored the top 100 nurses in the Houston area.

Nowak, who is retiring at the end of the school year, is the only nurse Williams has ever had, arriving on campus when it opened in 1985.

“To keep from crying, I tell the students I finally passed the (assessment test) and I am moving on,” Nowak said.

(more…)

May 16th 2014 Posted to Health News,School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land parents share tips on common topics we all face.

Need Advice? Have helpful tips to share? This section is where Sugar Land parents help each other out with advice and tips for common kid issues and childhood dilemmas.

How do you encourage your children to eat their vegetables?

“Start them on baby food veggies and different ones. Graduate to fresh veggies and never stop serving it. My grandson eats veggies more than meat.” - Lisa Simon Wimberley

“My 20-month-old eats anything and everything. But the 5-year-old and husband need to be tricked. I make things like cauliflower Alfredo, or mix a ton of chopped or pureed veggies into meatballs - or maybe margherita pizza.” - Lisette Womack (more…)

May 16th 2014 Posted to Babies & Tots,Community Blog,Sugar Land Kids,Sugar Land Parenting |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (May 16, 2014) - The City of Sugar Land’s sixth annual Memorial Day Ceremony on May 26 at Sugar Land Memorial Park, 15300 University Blvd., will pay tribute to those who have shown bravery and honor while serving their country.

The event begins at 10:00 am with a one-hour patriotic musical presentation, onsite exhibits, and activity stations. A presentation of colors, pledge of allegiance, the singing of the National Anthem, and comments by U.S. Rep. Pete Olson will follow.

During the ceremony, the City will acknowledge names that were recently engraved inside the new Veteran’s Memorial at Sugar Land Memorial Park.

The memorial features an obelisk recognizing all branches of the military. On the interior walls are the names of Sugar Land veterans who have died in the line of duty. The etched names will serve as a lasting expression of gratitude from the City of Sugar Land and its community. Any future names will be added as part of the City’s annual Memorial Day ceremony.

(more…)

May 16th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (May 15, 2014) - The City of Sugar Land and the Texas State Guard will hold a full-scale hurricane exercise May 30 through June 1.

Areas of focus will include mass sheltering, evacuation, and hazmat response. Exercise participants will work through scenarios that focus on the following objectives:

• Resource Coordination: determine strengths and weaknesses in the current plan governing on-scene command and control, emergency operations center operations, and coordination of response resources.
• Access Control: review plans for area perimeter control, staging and incident command post security.
• Sheltering and Housing of Pets: ensure the safety of people and animals.
• Hazmat Response: Identify and contain chemical release and ensure the safety of surrounding communities.

The Texas State Guard will provide the necessary manpower to create a realistic shelter operation at Wheeler Fieldhouse in Mercer Stadium, 16403 Lexington Boulevard. Partners supporting the exercise include Fort Bend ISD, City of Stafford Emergency Management, Fort Bend County Red Cross, and Brazos River Authority.

The exercise will result in a large presence of military personnel and equipment, as well as radio traffic simulating a disaster response.

The purpose of the exercise is to provide participants with an opportunity to evaluate current response concepts, plans, and capabilities. The exercise will focus on local emergency responder command and control coordination, critical decisions, notifications, and integration of state and federal assets necessary to save lives and protect public health and safety.

May 15th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX (May 14, 2014) - Join Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital and the Sugar Land Skeeters for this year’s Pink in the Park, Pink Out game in support of breast cancer awareness. The second annual event will be held May 23.

Survivors are invited to register for the pregame ceremony, and the first 50 survivors to register will receive two Picnic Area tickets that include food and drinks. In addition, some 2,000 fans will be given a complimentary gift. During Pink in the Park, all registered breast cancer survivors in attendance will receive on-field recognition during a pre-game ceremony.

There will be no doubt that this event focuses on breast cancer as attendees wear pink and the Skeeters’ players wear pink jerseys. During the game, an auction of the Skeeters’ commemorative pink jerseys will take place with all proceeds benefiting the comprehensive Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Breast Care Center. Last year, $9,500 was raised to support the expansion of the center.

(more…)

May 14th 2014 Posted to Community News,Health News,Sports News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (May 12, 2014) - A local resident is back to mowing his lawn after undergoing two different heart surgeries on the same day— a practice made possible by minimally invasive coronary intervention.

Two Houston Methodist Sugar Land physicians, Yassir Sonbol, M.D., an interventional cardiologist, and Uttam Tripathy, M.D., a cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon, were the first in Fort Bend County to perform a same day hybrid coronary intervention, which is a combination of percutaneous intervention and minimally invasive heart surgery. This allows the patient to have two different heart surgeries on the same day, thereby minimizing the invasiveness of the procedure.

John Strong called his primary care physician, Tayma Shaya, M.D. after experiencing chest pain, a heavy feeling in his chest and trouble walking. He had no previous history of heart problems but did have an elevated blood pressure at times.

Yassir Sonbol, M.D.; John Strong and Uttam Tripathy, M.D.

(more…)

May 12th 2014 Posted to Business News,Community News,Health News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX News (May 9, 2014) - The Sugar Land Skeeters’ right-handed pitcher Tracy McGrady will make his professional debut for the club on Saturday, May 10 against the Atlantic League opponent Somerset Patriots, with first pitch scheduled for 6:05 p.m. CT. Fans are encouraged to tune in to ESPN3, ESPN’s digital platform and carrier of all 70 Sugar Land Skeeters home games this season.

Following the outing, McGrady will be made available to the media at Constellation Field. Media planning to attend are asked to RSVP with MJ Burns at [email protected].

Saturday’s start will mark McGrady’s first regular season appearance of 2014 and the first of his professional baseball career. The 6-foot-8 right-hander is scheduled to start and be kept to a limited pitch count. McGrady officially made the Skeeters Opening Day roster as a Spring Training invitee, tossing 1.0 inning and allowing three hits in his last outing against Alvin Community College in April.

(more…)

May 09th 2014 Posted to Community News,Sports News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post

Sugar Land, TX (May 7, 2014) - Ray Elementary principal Ben Perez is the District 4 TEPSAN of the Year for the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA).

Members from the 20 TEPSA Districts across the state annually recognize colleagues for their outstanding service to the association. Honorees will be recognized at the TEPSA Awards Reception June 11, at the Austin Renaissance Hotel.

“These exceptional school leaders go above and beyond the call of duty to serve their students and colleagues,” said TEPSA Executive Director Harley Eckhart.

Perez, whose career in education spans 18 years, is currently serving as TEPSA District 4 President. He was the 2013 named Lamar CISD Elementary Principal of the Year. He is a graduate of Terry High School.

TEPSA has served Texas Pre-K - 8 school leaders since 1917. Member-owned and member-governed, TEPSA has more than 5,800 members who direct the activities of 3 million PreK-8 school children.

May 07th 2014 Posted to School News,Sugar Land Texas News |  Email This Post