Fifty-four members of the Wessendorff Middle School Colt Beginner Band participated in their first solo and ensemble contest on March 31. All seven small ensembles came away with first-division medals.  Fifty-seven soloists also garnered first-division medals. Their lowest rating earned was a pair of second division soloists who were awarded ribbons for their efforts. The band wishes to thank Lamar CHS band director Jason Levin and Lamar JH band directors John Barton and Tammy Disharoon for their assistance in preparing for this contest. Timothy Zamora is the band director at Wessendorff.

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The City of Richmond, Texas is undergoing a transformation in its business and residential landscape. Recognized as one of Texas’ founding communities, settled before Texas became a state, Richmond is building on its historic past and welcoming future growth. As the national economy continues to rebound, Richmond moves ahead of the curve by analyzing its current economic environment, adding new businesses, and undertaking quality of life enhancements to the benefit of its residents and the local community.

Richmond, the seat of Fort Bend County, has long been seen as a quiet historical community numbering approximately 12,000 residents. The City, however, is strategically placed for business expansion as well as residential and recreational enjoyment. (more…)

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Presales begin April 28 for Waterside at Riverstone, one of three new neighborhoods opening in the Fort Bend community this spring.

The enclave will feature 18 homesites, with most bordering a lake or central park. Fedrick, Harris Estate Homes is the exclusive builder, with designs from its Royal Villa series of floor plans ranging in size from 3,600 to more than 6,000 square feet. The homes will feature tiled roofs and stucco, stone and brick exteriors. Prices will start in the upper $600,000s, with a 5,500-square-foot model opening in August. (more…)

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Rahul Nagvekar, an 8^th grade student at Quail Valley Middle School’s GT Academy, won the Texas State Geography Bee and will now advance to the national competition in Washington, D.C., in May.

As a sixth grader, Rahul placed 3^rd in the competition and then placed 2^nd as a seventh-grader.  He has been coached each year by his father and two GT Academy teachers and Geography Club sponsors, Lawrence Anderson and Lisa Dennis-Francis. (more…)

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Seven Fort Bend ISD teachers are recipients of 2012 Fund for Teachers grant awards for professional development projects they designed and submitted for funding. Fund for Teachers awards fellowships for self-designed, professional growth opportunities for PreK to 12^th grade teachers who recognize the value of inquiry, the power of knowledge, and their ability to make a difference. Since 2001, Fund for Teachers has awarded more than $15.9 million in grants, up to $5,000 for individuals or $10,000 for teams, to nearly 4,500 teachers. Earning individual grant awards were Naomi Brown and Lily Ann Graff-Archuleta. A team grant was presented to teachers Brooke Wilson, April Davis, Kelly Caldwell, Destiny Parker and Tawanna Evans. (more…)

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Tomoe Yokoda VonGruenigen, Director of Ryukyukoku Matsuri Daiko – Texas Branch (RMD), President of the Okinawan Cultural Association of Texas (OCAT), a performer of Kaminari Taiko, and a Sugar Land resident led RMD through two mesmerizing performances at the 2012 Japan Festival in Hermann Park, Houston. Both performances began with an Eisa procession from one end of the festival to the other. The processions included four flag bearers and 20 drummers in colourful costumes who, with perfect synchronization, led the growing crowd to the stage. The choreography, created in Okinawa, is a dynamic blend of traditional Eisa and Karate while the music is a captivating blend of traditional folk music and modern rock music. (more…)

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The Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) was pleased to present Helen Chuong and Jillian Ross with college scholarships in the amount of $1,000 each for their outstanding volunteer efforts in Fort Bend County.  The recipients were chosen from a highly qualified pool of applicants from public, private and parochial schools throughout Fort Bend County.  The winners stood out among the other candidates as leaders in their schools as well as in their various volunteer efforts.

Helen Chuong of Bush High School contributed over 300 hours of community and school service throughout her high school career.  She served as a youth counselor at the Chinese Community Center.  Her passion to help others extended to her volunteer work with the River Pointe Church where she assisted special needs and physically impaired children.  Helen also volunteered with The Arc of Fort Bend Special Needs Conference in various roles. Helen is a talented pianist; fluent in three languages; a competitive swimmer and dancer.  She has received the University Interscholastic League Award, National Honor Society and the National English Honor Society Awards.  Helen plans to attend the University of Texas at Austin majoring in architectural engineering. (more…)

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Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) proudly accepted a check from William B. Travis High School athletic trainers in the amount of $800. The League will use the donation from Travis High School and that of other partnering organizations, including Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, to further the community’s fight against breast cancer. FBJSL is working with the American Cancer Society in an ongoing, collaborative effort to provide financial support for programs and services designed to improve quality of life, provide access to early detection and treatment, and diminish suffering for Fort Bend County breast cancer patients. (more…)

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The YMCAs of Fort Bend County, which includes the Fort Bend, Katy and TW Davis YMCAs, recently held its 6^th Annual Spring Golf Classic and Auction, sponsored by Fort Bend Toyota and Sterling McCall Lexus, on Monday, March 26th.  Over 130 golfers participated in the one day event held at Pecan Grove Country Club in Richmond, which netted the YMCA over $50,000 for its annual Partners Fundraising Campaign.  “We are extremely pleased with the community support this year and even more excited about the number of youth and families that we can support with the proceeds,” stated Bill Myers, YMCA Golf Tournament Chair and TW Davis Y Board Member.      (more…)

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At their April 2 meeting,Missouri CityCouncil Members Proclaimed the week of April 22 through April 28 as “National Crime Victims’ Rights Week” inMissouri City. Since 1981, the national Office for Victims of Crime has observed National Crime Victims’ Rights Week by promoting victims’ rights and honoring crime victims and those who advocate on their behalf. Police Chief Joel Fitzgerald, praised Toni Slusser, the City’s Crime Victim Liaison, for the work she does for crime victims. He said she “is very caring and a lot of the needs of victims would go unmet without her efforts.” In addition, Council Members proclaimed April “National Sexual Assault Awareness Month”.  This year’s campaign encourages the concept of respect. Individuals and communities should respect one another in order to prevent sexual violence and they also should foster relationships that are consensual, respectful and informed.

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At their April 2 meeting, Missouri City Council Members proclaimed April “Autism Awareness Month” in the City to increase understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Autism is a complex developmental disability that causes individuals to have issues with social interaction and communication. Symptoms usually start before age 3 and can cause delays or problems in many different skills that develop from infancy to adulthood. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 88 children have been diagnosed with Autism or a related disorder. Darla Farmer, President of Hope for Three, pictured above, accepted the proclamation. She founded the Fort Bend-based nonprofit organization to raise awareness and provide educational and financial support to families with children diagnosed with ASDs. Mayor Allen Owen, who is pictured with Farmer; and every Mayor inFortBendCountyare supporting Hope for Three’s community initiative.

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The Fort Bend Medical Society Alliance hosted its “Red Ties & Rubies” WATCH Preview Party on February 3 that welcomed business and communty members for an evening of entertainment and networking to help spread awareness of the roles the Alliance and Fort Bend ISD School Health Advisory Committee play in promoting WATCH Week.

Held annually in March, WATCH Week is devoted to teaching students about the five risk factors (Weight, Activity, Tobacco, Cholesterol and High Blood Pressure) for heart attacks and strokes. The Fort Bend Medical Society Alliance has partnered with FBISD for the past 10 years in promoting the campaign throughout FBISD schools. (more…)

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For the second consecutive year, Fort Settlement Middle School student Sivateja Tangirala has been named winner of the Houston PBS Spelling Bee. The eighth-grader competed against 54 top spellers representing 1,040 schools in 42 Texas counties. As winner of the Houston PBS Spelling Bee, Tangirala will go on to represent the Southeast Texas Region in the Scripps National Spelling Bee, to be held May 27-June 1 in Washington, D.C.

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Pigtails and piles of dirt.

That was the scene recently at Missouri City’s Buffalo Run Park, where a local Girl Scout group helped rebuild a special garden—a habitat garden for butterflies.

Girl Scout Brownie Troop 19274 planted flowers and shrubs on Saturday, March 31, to restore the Butterfly Garden left dry from last year’s drought.

The 12 girls, ages 8 and 9, spent much of their morning at the garden, replenishing the vegetation and their friendly bond. (more…)

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Lake Olympia Middle School seventh-grade student, Samuel Melvin, won first place in the 7^th grade category of the Earth Day Houston Art Contest. His winning work of art featured an illustration of two hands holding our planet surrounded by images of fish, plants, animals and trees. As winner of his division, Melvin earned a U.S. savings bond and recognition at an awards ceremony hosted by Air Alliance Houston. His artwork will be framed and displayed at The Greater Houston Convention Visitors Bureau and at Houston City Hall during the Houston Earth Day Celebration on April 7. (more…)

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Fifty-one Fort Bend ISD secondary school students were named winners of the 10^th annual Fort Bend Regional Texas History Day Competition, held, March 3 at Sartartia Middle School. The competition welcomed students from Fort Bend ISD, Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, and Fort Bend County home-schooled students. The contest required students to choose historical topics related to the theme “Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History” and conduct extensive research through libraries, archives, museums, oral history interviews and historic sites. After analyzing and interpreting their sources and drawing conclusions about their topics’ significance in history, students present their work in original papers, websites, exhibits, performances and documentaries. The winners will go on to compete at the Texas History Day Competition, which will be held May 4-5 in Austin, Texas. (more…)

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FCST swimmers traveled to Orlando, Florida on March 19^th-25^th to compete at the NCSA Junior National meet.  Ten swimmers made the trip and numerous came home with record breaking swims!

Congratulations to Brett Pinfold for qualifying for the USA Olympic Trial meet by swimming to a 51.47L in the 100 Free. Brett will be FCST’s eighth swimmer to qualify for Olympic Trials and travel to Omaha, Nebraska in June. Brett’s 100 Free time also qualifies him for the US Open meet. In addition, Brett achieved a new Short Course Junior National time in the 200 IM with a time of 2:10.39L. Brett’s accomplishments don’t end here he also walked away from the meet with FCST team records in 8 events as well as a new GULF record in the 50 Back with a time of 27.61L. (more…)

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Congratulations to the 23 swimmers who competed at the Texas Age Group Swimming state meet (TAGS) in The Woodlands on March 9th-12th. The meet was fast and FCST swimmers stepped up to the challenge and had some great racing over the four day meet.

Congratulations to Chris Yeager for achieving his first USA Swimming Sectional time by swimming to a 9th place finish in the 13-14 1000 Free with a time of 9:56.07. Chris’ 1000 Free, as well as his 1650 Free which he placed 8th overall were new USA Swimming AAAA times. In addition, Chris placed 16th in the 500 Free and had 100% best times at the meet. (more…)

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Austin and Travis High School theatre departments will represent Fort Bend ISD in Area competition for their respective UIL one-act plays after recently advancing at the District level.  Both schools will compete with other area high schools on Saturday, April 14, at George Ranch High School in Lamar Consolidated ISD. Under the direction of Bradly Cummons and Jennifer Minor, Austin High School will present “The Imaginary Invalid” by Molière.  The play centers around a fearful but miserly hypochondriac who divides his time between summoning his doctor to care for his ailments and trying not to pay the resulting bills.  The cast earned several awards at the District level, such as Best Actor for David Herrera and Best Actress for Courtney Russell.  Cody Kenner was named to the All-Star Cast, while Nora Hunt and Kathryn Victory were named to the Honorable Mention All-Star Cast.  Zanira Ghulamhussain won an award for Outstanding Technical Achievement. (more…)

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Throughout the months of April and May, Fort Bend County Libraries’ First Colony Branch Library will exhibit a collection of artwork depicting Central and South America. The exhibit may be viewed in the display cases of the library, located at 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land.

The exhibit is courtesy of Consuelo Forray, a member of the Youth Services staff at the library. The collection includes paintings that Forray has done herself, as well as pieces she has collected over the years from places she has lived or visited. Most are landscape paintings done in oils and acrylics, and feature scenes from Ecuador, Panama, Chile, and El Salvador.             (more…)

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Hope for Three awarded its very first scholarship to Matthew G., age 7 years, a Texana Center client who has autism spectrum disorder. Because of this grant Matthew will be receiving in-home Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services for six months.  The grant will pay in-home therapists who will work with Matthew weekly to do assessments, ongoing treatment and program development and staff training by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.

Kate Johnson-Patagoc, Director of Texana’s Specialized Children’s Services commented “We are thrilled that Hope for Three was able to help Matthew and his family with this scholarship. Intensive ABA is the most proven effective treatment for autism. Unfortunately this can be expensive in the short term and out of reach for some families, but the payoff in the child’s progress is huge! Texana Center could not be more pleased that Hope for Three is able to help children this way”.          (more…)

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The Houston Business Journal (HBJ) recently named Sugar Land among the healthiest employers in the region.

Sugar Land was awarded second place for employers with 500-1,499 employees at HBJ’s first Healthiest Employers awards luncheon on March 1. Verizon Wireless edged out Sugar Land for first place.

Indiana-based Healthiest Employer LLC ranked the companies based on their culture and leadership commitment, communications and marketing, foundational components, report and analysis and strategic planning. The scores were then divided into categories based on the size of the company for HBJ’s Healthiest Employers list. (more…)

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The Girls Varsity Soccer Team at Ridge Point High School has advanced to Area competition in the UIL District 46-4A state-qualifying playoff games after defeating Houston’s Booker T. Washington team 7-0 on Friday, March 30.  The Area game will be played against Brazosport High School on Tuesday night at 7:00 pm at Hopper Stadium (800 W. 2^nd Street, Freeport, 77541).

The Lady Panthers ended their inaugural season of varsity play with a record of 14-5 and are the first varsity sports team from Ridge Point High School to reach the state playoff level.  Led by coaches Susanna Schroeder and Michele Janke, the team is mainly comprised of freshman and sophomore players, with one junior on the squad.

In Friday’s game, Madison Grover and Nicole Dupin each scored 2 goals, and Zoey Pawlik, Sara Bartzak, and Jaylyn Sampson each scored one.

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Antoinette Reading Junior High in Richmond celebrated its first ever “No Place for Hate/Bully Free Week” on March 19-23 by taking the bully by the horns. The school counselors planned several activities for the week, including mix it up at lunch where students were asked to sit with other students with the same birthday month, bully free lessons during advisory, and a contest for students to design an original T-shirt special to RJH to bring awareness to Bullying and the long lasting effects it has on students.  The winner was 7^th grader Megan Hudson. Attached is a photo of some 6^th, 7^th, and 8^th grade students, and staff proudly displaying their t-shirt which reads “Take charge trample the bullies”.

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Denim destination sold 4.8 million pairs of jeans last year

Denim destination and specialty retailer Buckle announces that it will be opening a newly remodeled store at First Colony Mall in Sugar Land, TX on Monday, April 2.

Known for its unique mix of on-trend clothing, shoes, and accessories, Buckle caters to style-conscious men and women who seek to express their individuality through fashion. Buckle carries a wide selection of fits, styles, and finishes from leading denim brands, including the
company’s exclusive brand, BKE, along with Big Star, Big Star Vintage, Rock Revival, MEK Denim, Miss Me, Buffalo, Reclaim, Silver Jeans, 7 for all Mankind, and Division E. To help guests complete their looks, Buckle offers tops, footwear, and accessories from popular lifestyle labels including BKE Boutique, Buckle Black, Affliction, RVCA, Sinful, Daytrip, Archaic, Roar, OBEY, 7 Diamonds, Billabong, Hurley, Fossil, and Fox. In all, Buckle represents more than 100 fashion brands in its stores and online at buckle.com. (more…)

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Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital honored its top physicians during a celebration of National Doctors Day with a Casino Night at Coal Vines in Sugar Land on Wednesday, March 28. Recognizing the importance of family members, the hospital opened up the event to physicians’ and their spouses.

Named 2012 Outstanding Female and Male Physicians, was Crystal Kelly, M.D., Internal Medicine and Anesthesiologist Jefferson Riddle, M.D. (more…)

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Chung Hon Michael Cheng of Sugar Land, Texas, won first place at the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) Junior Composition Competition.

Cheng, 14, is a freshman at Clements High School in Sugar Land. Born in Hong Kong, he has played piano since age four and composed since age six. He owes his musical accomplishments much to teachers Ann Witherspoon, Nancy Chin and Cindy Tan. In 2008, he passed the prestigious ABRSM Grade 8 Piano Exam with distinction, and in 2011, passed the Grade 8 Theory Exam with a perfect score. He was won numerous awards as a pianist and was the national second place winner of the MTNA Composition Competition in 2011. (more…)

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The Girls Varsity Soccer Team at Ridge Point High School will be vying for a chance at the state title as they play their first bi-district game in the UIL District 46-4A state-qualifying playoff games at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 30, at Barnett Stadium (6800 Fairway, Houston, 77087).

The Lady Panthers ended their inaugural season of varsity play with a record of 14-5 and are the first varsity sports team from Ridge Point High School to reach the state playoff level.  Led by coaches Susanna Schroeder and Michele Janke, the team is mainly comprised of freshman and sophomore players, with one junior on the squad.  (more…)

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Blue Ridge Elementary School recently held a dedication ceremony to celebrate its new Freedom Shrine donated by the Exchange Club of Sugar Land. The Freedom Shrine contains a collection of 30 historical documents, including the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States, which will help educate students on the importance of historical events that have taken place throughout American history, while helping them gain a better appreciation of their forefathers who helped found our great country.

Dierdre Holloway, principal at Blue Ridge Elementary School, welcomed guests to the event and gave a brief history on the Freedom Shrine. Following was the posting of colors by students Barry Wilson and Jarryd Allen and performances by sixth-grade student Erin Davis, who sang the Star-Spangled Banner; the 6th Grade Band, the Showstoppers Dance Team, Blue Ridge Cheerleaders, and the 1^st Grade Choir. (more…)

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First Colony Middle School announced its 6th, 7th and 8th Grade Science Fair winners whose entries included the research and study of physical, biological and social sciences.

Pictured are several of the winners including (front row, l. to r.) Shubhanker Das (Static Friction), David Black (Up, Up and A Weigh), Uishru Iyer (Impact of Light Intensity), Chris ZumMullen (Defying Gravity), Nandan Marwaha and Baonan Ji (Trash to Gas) and Mithul Kandathiparampil (How To Make An Aircraft Invisible to Radar). Standing in the back row (l. to r.) are Emily Bohnsack and Emma Yarrow (Adhesive Bandages), Jordan Pulsifer (Which Common Household Food Item Is The Most Effective Fertilizer), Renee Yu and Keerti Rao (Anti- Bacterial Cleaner Test) and Allyson Ho (Starches in Formation).

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Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) has begun its membership drive for the 2012 – 2013 League year.  Provisional membership is available to women ages 23 and older.  Women interested in learning more about the League are encouraged to attend our annual Bring-A- Friend social at PF Chang’s in Sugar Land on Thursday, May 24th at 6:00 p.m. Two informational meetings will also be held on July 12th and August 7th at a location to be announced.

Along with events such as Charity Ball and Sugar Plum Market, FBJSL members will have the opportunity to provide direct service to the following agencies: Child Advocates of Fort Bend, East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry, Fort Bend Community Partners Rainbow Room, Fort Bend County Women’s Center, Fort Bend Seniors, Houston Museum of Natural Science-Sugar Land, Literacy Council of Fort Bend County, Lunches of Love, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land and Fort Bend Teen Service League (FBTSL), a mentoring project of FBJSL. (more…)

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Bush High School’s Navy JROTC Drill Team competed against 15 other top drill teams in the state and placed second at the Texas State Championship Navy JROTC Academic, Physical Fitness and Drill Meet. This achievement qualified them for the Navy JROTC National Championship Meet for the seventh-consecutive year. Bush will be among the top 24 Navy JROTC drill teams from across the nation to compete at the National competition will be held at the Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Florida in April.

At the state competition (which included military drill, academic exams, physical fitness events and a battalion personnel inspection), the Bush NJROTC cadets, commanded by Cadet Commander Aubrey Brent, earned the following awards: (more…)

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Last year, synthetic running track surfaces were installed at Ken Hall Stadium at Hightower High School and at Elkins High School. The American Sports Builders Association (ASBA) recognized both facilities with a “Distinguished Outdoor Track Facility Award” for Excellence in Design and Construction.  Victor Quiroga with Fisher Tracks, Inc. presented the two awards on behalf of ASBA to Dr. Timothy Jenney, FBISD Superintendent, and the Board during the March 26 Board of Trustees Meeting. Pictured (from left to right) are: Victor Quiroga with Fisher Tracks, Inc.; Susan Hohnbaum, FBISD Board President; and Dr. Timothy Jenney.

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The Fort Bend Women’s Shelter will be the recipient of a $1,300 donation from the Houston Chevelle Club. The money was raised at the club’s second annual car show, Ribs and Rides, held on Saturday, March 24th at Otto’s BBQ and Hamburgers in the Fountains shopping center. More than 70 vehicles were on display from the early 1900s to modern day muscle cars. While the majority of cars were from the 1960s and 1970s, there was something for every car enthusiast.

“The Shelter is the only resource in Fort Bend County for abused women and children who have nowhere else to turn,” stated Eric Christie, Houston Chevelle Club president. “While car owners like to show off their cars, it’s always more special when we can give back to the community. We hope the donation will help the Shelter expand their programs and services in assisting survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault and their children.” (more…)

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Missouri City’s Parks & Recreation Department continues to garner impressive awards for innovative projects and exceptional employees. During the March 19 City Council meeting, Recreation Superintendent Shane Mize was recognized for winning the Southwest Region Young Professional of the Year Award from the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA).

The prestigious award is given to a professional 35 years old or younger from the states of Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana and New Mexico who demonstrates the qualities and skills needed to attain positions of leadership in their field through participation in professional organizations, such as NRPA, their contributions to advancing the field, and their creativity in creating or managing programs.     Mize, along with 18 other regional and network winners, will compete for the National Young Professional of the Year Award during the NRPA’s National Congress in October. (more…)

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In a speech competition that drew more than 190 students who won local qualifiers, the four entrants from Southminster School all were medalists and earned superior ratings.   Fourth-graders Annika Overstreet and Jasmine Wright won gold medals in poetry and fable/folklore, respectively.   Third-grader Dylan Thomas was silver medalist in poetry for his division, and Ryan Michlewicz earned silver in fourth-grade Bible verse.   (more…)

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Fort Bend County Libraries is saving county taxpayers’ money by using email and telephone notifications rather than mailing out letters. Patrons may receive notices by email, telephone, or text message about books they have requested or that are overdue. By sending out notices electronically, the library saves money on the costs of paper, printing and postage, which helps preserve the environment as well.

Library patrons can manage their online library account by clicking on “My Account” on the library’s webpage. To verify or add a telephone or email account to the record, simply go to “Contact Information and Preferences,” then “Preference for receiving library notices,” and select “email address,” “telephone,” or “TXT messaging” from the drop-down list to choose the format by which library information notices should be received. Patrons who opt to receive text messages will need to ensure that their cell phone number is included on their library record and indicate which cell phone provider they use by selecting a choice from the drop-down menu. Standard text-messaging rates apply, based on the patron’s cell-phone plan.             (more…)

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Infielder Alex Cintron and Pitcher Bobby Livingston Ink Deals

The Sugar Land Skeeters announced today the signing of Major League infielder and Sugar Land resident Alex Cintron and left-handed pitcher Bobby Livingston to the inaugural roster.

Cintron, originally drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks in 1997, adds nine years of Major League Baseball experience and over 20 years of professional baseball to a stellar roster for 2012. Born in Humacao, Puerto Rico, Cintron, 32, collected over 2000 at-bats, 222 RBI, 565 hits and 33 home runs with five years in Arizona, two with the Chicago

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Barbara DiBlasi Marlin, ABR, GRI of Prudential Gary Greene, Realtors was recently installed as the 2012 president of the Ft. Bend Chapter of Women’s Council of Realtors.

She will serve a one-year term as president and will be responsible for presiding over monthly Board and business resource meetings. Marlin has been active in the organization for five years and has held the positions of membership chair, vice-president of membership, and president-elect.  She has been a Realtor for six years. (more…)

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During the recent Great Texas Warrant Roundup, some Missouri City residents learned that crime—even the minor type—doesn’t pay.

In its fifth year participating in the statewide initiative, Missouri City cleared 400 warrants and netted $81,121 in cash and cash bonds. With the amount of jail time served, known as face value, the City’s roundup effort totaled more than $163,603.

“The successful Warrant Roundup program was a team endeavor,” said Cathy Haney, Director of Municipal Court Services.  “It showed us what can be done with a collective approach on the part of the Police Department, Court staff, 911 Dispatch, Communications and Public Works Departments working together to make the effort a success.” (more…)

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March is designated National School Social Worker Month in recognition of the many contributions of these professionals to our students and staff. Fort Bend ISD is proud to join school districts throughout the nation in saluting its social workers. The District currently has 14 social workers; six assigned to the Student Support Services Department and eight to the Special Programs Department’s Title I division.

Some of the many services provided by the Student Support Services social workers include: consultations with school staff, individual student counseling, crisis intervention, interagency coordination, as well as after-school tutorials and other campus-based student enrichment projects. District social workers also facilitate the Truancy Diversion Program and work with partners to provide resources for shelter, food, and outside health care services to students and their family members.  (more…)

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Briscoe Junior High’s Mike Semmler is Lamar Consolidated ISD’s 2012 Secondary Principal of the Year and Velasquez Elementary’s Heather Patterson is the 2012 Elementary Principal of the Year. Both were honored by their peers Friday at a meeting of the District’s administrators.
Semmler has been principal at Briscoe since 2006. Prior to taking the helm at Briscoe, Semmler served as an Assistant Principal at Foster High School and Briscoe, as a Technology Trainer for LCISD and as a science teacher at Wessendorff Middle School.

Semmler has his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of South Dakota, where he was an All-Conference football player. He also coached for one year at his alma mater. (more…)

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Sixty-two students from seven Fort Bend ISD high schools (including Austin, Clements, Dulles, Elkins, Hightower, Kemper and Travis) were represented at the Texas Forensic Association State Meet, held March 1-3 at Amarillo High School. After competing in various divisions, three
FBISD students now hold championship titles. Dulles High School student Amyn Kassam placed first in Lincoln-Douglas Debate and the Kempner High School team of Eric Diep and Brandon Daniels earned first place in Public Forum Debate. FBISD now holds two championship titles in Public Forum Debate since its 2009 debut at the TFA state competition when a Clements team became the first to hold the title. (more…)

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The Fort Bend County Juvenile Probation Office has been awarded a $64,258 grant by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD) as part of TJJD’s Prevention and Early Intervention Initiative, which is providing demonstration grant funding for programs and services across Texas that prevent or intervene in at-risk juvenile behaviors leading to delinquency, truancy, dropping out of school, or referral to the juvenile justice system.

Under the direction of Chief Juvenile Probation Officer Michael Meade, the department has implemented the “Saved by the Bell”  truancy/delinquency reduction program that has been in effect as a pilot program from 2008 until 2011, serving six schools within the Fort Bend ISD.  In December 2011 the department expanded Saved by the Bell to include a specialized truancy magistrate and enough juvenile probation officers to facilitate all of the Fort Bend ISD.  This grant will add an additional Saved by the Bell juvenile probation officer to administer the same proactive case management strategies together with meaningful sanctions to other school districts within Fort Bend County. (more…)

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Sienna Plantation Aquatics (SPA) traveled to Austin for the New Year’s Classic Meet from January 20th through the 22nd. There were a tremendous amount of great swims! Chris Bready received his first sectional cut in the 1650 Free, while Kamren McKinney-Lyons received his first TAGS cut of the season in 50 breast. As a team, SPA achieved 20 New BB Times, 8 new A Times, 6 new AA times, 1 new AAA time, 1 new AAA Time, 6 new TAGS cuts, and 2 new sectional cuts. We would like to also recognize the following swimmers who made it to finals at the meet: Jacey Hinton, Justin Mercier, Chrissy Byler, Chris Bready, Zach Ortiz, Juan Tapia, Jose Tapia, Kenedy Thaman, Anthony Aranda, Darrin Asphall, Brandon Ewer, Brynna Hamm, Savannah Maier, and Carley Wood.

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More than 300 dads and daughters enjoyed a memorable event on Sat., Feb. 11, at Missouri City’s 16th annual Dad & Daughter Dance. The theme for this year’s event was “Princess Ball” and the lovely ladies were treated to an evening fit for a princess, including dinner, dancing and a ride in a horse-drawn, lighted carriage that came with blankets to ward off the evening chill. The pre-Valentine’s Day evening of fun was a special opportunity for the girls to spend a night out with dad. Most dads said the evening was a magical moment that will last a lifetime.

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Standard & Poor’s recently upgraded Sugar Land’s water and sewer revenue bonds from AA to AA+, a sign of strong financial management that translates to taxpayer savings. Fitch Ratings also assigned an AA+ to Sugar Land.

The ratings will affect the scheduled sale of $22 million on Feb. 21 for numerous water and wastewater projects throughout Sugar Land.

Bond ratings reflect a City’s creditworthiness and are based on economic base, financial indicators, outstanding debt and management policies and practices. (more…)

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On Saturday January 28 and February 4, Brownie Troop 19394 ventured out on their first outing. Troop 19394 consists of 2nd graders from the Richmond/Ft. Bend and Katy areas.  The girls began working on their first Skill Building Badge – My Best Self by attending smile school at Dr. Larry Caldwell pediatric dentist office in Sugarland.  They followed that up with learning about the Life Flight helicopter and touring Sugar Land Fire Station 6.  According to the girls, the most exciting part of the weekend was sitting in the helicopter.  Thanks to all who made this possible for Brownie Troop 19394.

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Baines Middle School hosted an Author Visit on January 18 that welcomed Gary Soto. The event was coordinated by Laura Downes, Library Media Specialist at Baines.

Soto is the author of 11 poetry collections, most notably New and Selected Poems, which was named a 1995 finalist for both the Los Angeles Times Book Award and the National Book Award. During his visit to Baines, Soto read excerpts from copies of his books, including Nerd Landia, Accidental Love, Local News and Hey 13! He also reminded students that like any profession, writing takes dedication and commitment. (more…)

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Lantern Lane Elementary School fourth and fifth graders recently took part in a bullying prevention discussion, hosted by School Safety Specialist Dwight Stewart of the Texas School Safety Center. Stewart spoke on the issue of bullying and reminded students about the consequences they can face if they choose to bully someone. He also offered the students advice on having positive interaction with their peers, whether in person, on the Internet or through various forms of social media, including Facebook.

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Middle School students throughout Fort Bend ISD experienced a high-impact, energizing day of learning at the second annual Middle School PAL (Peer Assistance & Leadership) Conference, held at First Colony Middle School. This year’s theme was, “Taking Action Together.” The event gave eighth-grade PAL students the opportunity to take part in various motivational activities, led by renowned motivational speaker and success trainer. Aric Bostick.

Bostick and PAL sponsors welcomed students to the conference by forming a receiving line, where they extended “high-fives” to students as they entered the gym. Students then took part in line dances to get them energized and geared up for the day’s events. (more…)

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Fort Bend ISD lunch menus will see minimal change resulting from the recently announced new federal nutrition standards.  As part of the 2010 Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has established new and improved nutrition standards for school lunches.  Fortunately, Fort Bend ISD’s Child Nutrition Services will only need to make small adjustments to its menus to comply with the new standards because the District already follows a more nutritional meal plan for its schools.

Child Nutrition will offer additional whole grain products and will increase the number of servings of fruits and vegetables.  The District will implement these changes in the 2012-2013 school year, a year ahead of when the regulations are mandated to go into effect.  The new federal standards mark the first major change to school meals, on a national scale, in more than 15 years.

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Fort Bend ISD has been awarded the Energy Star certification for 16 campuses, which immediately qualified for the distinction.  As part of a Board of Trustees initiative, the District investigated the Energy Star Program and submitted building and utility data to determine compliance with energy codes and standards.  The District expects more campuses and facilities to be awarded the certificate as the process continues.

Energy Star is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy with the aim to help businesses and individuals save money and protect the environment through energy efficient products and practices. (more…)

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Fort Bend ISD has reduced its operating costs by 25 percent over the last three years due to a diligent focus on process improvements.  After conducting a thorough review of expenditures across all departments, District leaders targeted three main areas that could benefit from increased efficiencies:  facility maintenance, custodial services and energy expenses.

“The effort required to make this happen and the savings that have been realized would not have been possible without the hard work and determination of the 550 employees in our facilities maintenance and operations division,” said Ben Copeland, Chief Auxiliary Services Officer.  “They have made the organization leaner and more responsive, and have increased efficiency.”

These significant operating cost reductions are part of the District’s continuous efforts in improving processes and procedures, as well as being fiscally responsible.

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Students at Campbell Elementary had a different kind of day.  Students, teachers, and parents arrived in their 1950’s wear: poodle skirts, bobbie socks, leather jackets, sunglasses, ponytails and slicked- back hair.  It was “bring a pair of socks to school day.”  We were donating socks to LCISD’s Common Threads.  But there was more… our gymnasium was transformed into a soda fountain/dance floor.  We had a hula hoop contest.  We did the limbo.  We did a freeze dance.  We played games.  We had so much fun at “The Hop.”

A special thank you to Houston area disc jockeys who shared part of the day with us:  Michelle Fisher, Tim Tuttle, and Kevin Kline.  They were exciting and made the day very special!  Also, a HUGE thank you to Mr. Curtis Clark, father of Courtney Clark, who brought over his 1968 Ford mustang for the day.  (more…)

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William P. Clements NJROTC/NNDCC Unit selected Cadet Kiana Farokhpour as the January Cadet of the Month.  Cadet Farokhpour is a 9th grade student, which classifies her as a Naval Science I Student.  Cadet Farokhpour possesses characteristics exceptional to her peer group. In addition her unmatched drive and determination   sets her apart.  She stated, “Coming to Clements is probably one of the greatest decisions I’ve made; but it comes second to joining NJROTC.  I’ve met and made outstanding friends, I’ve learned many characteristics of becoming a good leader, and it changed me for all the better.”  She has learned all the required knowledge (chain of command, orders to the sentry, etc.), and when in uniform she emulates a recruiting poster picture.  Additionally, Cadet Farokhpour is the only female on the Armed Drill Team. She looks at spinning the 9.5 lb weapons as just another challenge.  Kiana closed her statement with, “I now live by the Navy Core Values, Honor, Courage and Commitment, and now there is nothing I can’t handle.” She is the daughter of Gity Haghkhah and Von Farokhpour.    Cadet Farokhpour will receive the Cadet of the Month Ribbon, Cadet of the Month Certificate, and a free uniform day pass.

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Six athletes from B.F. Terry High School were named to the THSCA 2011 AAAA Academic All-State Football Team. Named to the second team are Kelechi Amushi, Miranda George and Shawn Whitehair. Named to the Honorable Mention team are Isaac Cox, Ronald Irving and Cody Williams.

“These athletes have made the choice to consistently excel both in the classroom and on the field,” said Campus Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Tim Teykl. “Strong character, outstanding class rank and GPA, along with a fine standardized exam score, are just a few of the incredible accomplishments by these youngsters.”

Amushie, #24, started at defensive back and was a captain on the varsity football team. He also earned District 23-AAAA honors (Academic All-District Football Team and all-District Defensive Back). Cox, #54, started at offensive tackle. He also earned District 23-AAAA honors (Academic All-District Football Team and All-District Offensive Line).

George, football manager, also earned District 23-AAAA Academic All-District Honors. Irving, #77, played offensive line and was named to the District 23-AAAA Academic All-District Football Team. Whitehair, #58, played offensive line and was named to the District 23-AAAA Academic All-District Football Team. Williams, #8, quarterback, was also named to the District 23-AAAA Academic All-District Football Squad.

The athletes chose a teacher to pose with them in the official picture, an educator that played a positive, significant part in their life at Terry High. Williams chose Ms. Johni Thiebaud, Amushie chose Ms. Shana Wenzel, Cox chose Mr. Larry Sanders, George chose Coach Kevin “Doc” Roberts; Irving chose Mr. Neal Huebotter and Whitehair chose Mr. John Troutman.

Since THSCA has begun recognizing Academic All-State football players in Texas, The Terry Rangers have placed over 85 athletes on the list. Terry was named a MetLife National Breakthrough School in 2011. Principal at Terry High is Dr. Vera Wehring.

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Missouri City will soon take part in a Statewide Warrant Roundup, allowing offenders to settle their fines without going to jail. Payments will be accepted in person, by phone and online beginning Feb. 11 until March 4.

The roundup takes place Feb. 25 through March 4. Individuals who do not settle their fines risk arrest by the Missouri City Police Department at their homes, schools and businesses. (more…)

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Students at Jones Elementary School celebrated the 100th day of school on January 30 by taking part in various activities to benefit students, as well as the community. Students celebrated with a 100th Day Parade, an appearance by Zero the Hero, and various classroom activities.

The school also set a goal of raising $100 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, but through the generous donations of students, staff and parents, the school surpassed its goal by raising $750. The school also collected more than 100 pounds of food items to benefit the East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry. The event was coordinated by Reginald Taylor, math specialist.

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Service is available to all FBISD students currently enrolled in K-5 and K-6 grade elementary schools

Fort Bend ISD’s Extended Day Program (EDP) provides full day service during Spring Break to all K-5 grade students who are currently enrolled in the district. Programming is also available for sixth-grade students attending K-6 grade campuses. The EDP Spring Break program will operate March 12-16, from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm. (more…)

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Medical Reserve Corps is celebrating its 10 year anniversary! MRC was established in the U.S. Office of the Surgeon General after the 9/11 attacks as a civilian-based volunteer organization trained to prepare for and respond to emergencies and disasters. We need Fort Bend County residents over the age of 18, or 16 with an adult, with all types of skills to ensure that our 560,000 residents are safe. You get a t-shirt and we make your badge at the first meeting! Here are our opportunities to get involved in February. Please contact Christine Rabe at christinem@homelandpreparedness.org or 832-385-9632 to sign up for the trainings or for more information.

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Texana announces their First Annual Fundraising Golf Tournament, the Texana Tee Off, scheduled for March 19, 2012 at the Weston Lakes Country Club in Weston Lakes near Fulshear.  The tournament is open to the public and is expected to be a good time for all who participate.  The Texana Tee Off is being chaired by Mary Rose Zdunkewicz, the Mayor of Weston Lakes, assisted by co-chairs J.C. Whitten and Anthony Francis.

Current planning of this 18 hole scramble tournament includes; lunch, dinner, live auction, raffle, as well as other fun and games. The live auction has an autographed basket ball from former Harlem Globetrotter, Reggie Dixon, who will be on hand to show a few tricks, a beach house getaway, Houston Rocket tickets with parking pass, a flag with certificate that has flown over the State Capitol and more. (more…)

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With spring right around the corner, the City of Sugar Land is already making plans for its upcoming event season.

Kicking off the event season this year is the third annual Cultural Kite Festival on Saturday, March 3, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Sugar Land Memorial Park, 15300 University Blvd.

Activities will include a kite museum, kite-making workshop, kite flying lessons and competitions, walk-around entertainment and cultural performances. There will also be food and refreshment booths with cultural cuisine available during the event.  Extra parking and shuttle services will be accessible at the UH Sugar Land Campus, 14000 University Blvd.  This year’s event promises extremely beautiful and diverse kites along with cultural entertainment. (more…)

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The Sugar Land Skeeters have announced that they have signed major league veteran outfielder and designated hitter Jason Botts and recent Houston Astros prospect and outfielder Drew Locke.

“The Skeeters are excited to have two more great bats to add to our team,” said Gary Gaetti, Manager of the Sugar Land Skeeters. “Botts and Locke both see the ball well. Expect to see strong production from our lineup.”

Botts, a 6’5” 250lb switch hitting outfielder from the Dallas/Fort Worth area finished last season in the New York Mets organization with the Triple-A Buffalo Bisons. He made his major league debut for the Rangers Sept. 4, 2005 against the Baltimore Orioles. He was called up three more times for a total of 93 games. He comes to the Skeeters with career stats in Triple A of .290 batting average, 612 runs scored, 1033 hits, 233 doubles, 127 home runs and 618 RBIs in 1009 games played from 2005 through 2011. (more…)

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Junior Troop 29223 was awarded their Girl Scout Bronze Award on October 11th, 2011.  A ceremony was held at Parkway United Methodist Church.

Front Row (L-R) Lauren Rabinowitz, Natalia O’Ryan, Savannah Wahlgren, Karson Weigl, Haley Lumbert Back Row (L-R) Julie Giardina (Leader), Grace Wahome, Hannah Cummings, Christine Bonaparte, Cameron Joiner, Madison Giardina, Damariz Serrano, Cynthia Joiner (Co-Leader)

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Brownie Girl Scout Troop  #29170 participated in a year-long service project.  Dickinson Elementary  in Greatwood  collects used drink pouches to be recycled.  Instead of having kids throw away all those Capri-Sun, Kool Aid and other drink pouches in the trash, they put them in a specified can where every two weeks, Troop 29170 empties the can, removes the straws, squeezes out any left-over juice and wraps them in stacks to be recycled.  It’s a dirty job but….it’s helping our school be green!

Natasha Prociuk, Olivia Moss, Kalyssa Wheeler, Elizabeth Valdez, Iris Ngo, Anna Claire Morris, Alison Brown, Maddy Roberts, Ryah Landry, Kate Kukura and Amber Richards.  Also part of the service project but not shown are Paige Cartwright, Addy Elliott & Grace Wood.

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Has anyone looked familiar on recent episodes of American Idol? Maybe someone singing in Galveston and advancing to the next round of competition in California? Then maybe you know Foster High School student Arielle Degueure.

The Richmond resident has been featured in a few snippets of the program as it airs footage from the early audition process. She originally auditioned in August with a cast of thousands in Houston. From there, she was one of only about 250 that were asked to audition again in Galveston.

(more…)

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Fort Bend ISD Board President, Susan Hohnbaum, sponsored a recent day-long leadership seminar as part of the FBISD Junior Student Leadership Program. The seminar was the third in a series of six that will be offered to the leadership class this school year. The session gave students the opportunity to meet with leaders of the Fort Bend County Juvenile Detention Center and the Fort Bend County Justice Center to learn about their roles in the community.

During their visit to the Fort Bend County Juvenile Detention Center, the leadership class met with Brian Fraser, Detention Superintendent; and Frankie Hill, Assistant Superintendent; who explained their roles at the center and shared details on how the center operates. The students also toured of the facilities. (more…)

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As filing for local city races opened on February 6th, Himesh Gandhi was on the steps of City Hall to make official his run for Sugar Land City Council, At-Large Position 1.

Filing makes the campaign official but Gandhi has been working hard for some time to gain broad citizen support.  The Gandhi campaign recently held a heavily attended kick-off rally at the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, with many elected officials, past and present, and community members in attendance.

“This is an exciting time to live in Sugar Land, one of the premier cities in Texas.  We are on the threshold of a new era of expanded growth and success as exciting as any we have seen in the past two decades. I am passionate about contributing to the prosperity of Sugar Land. As a member of the Sugar Land community for over twenty years, I have witnessed firsthand our City’s ongoing success, due in large to the careful planning, expertise and wisdom of city leaders,” says Gandhi.

As the next At-Large Councilman, Gandhi will focus on strategically moving Sugar Land forward through financial accountability, quality development and an emphasis on city services and public safety. As a partner in a Sugar Land law firm, Gandhi has a solid legal background and extensive business experience in Sugar Land and Fort Bend County. He has been an active participant in Sugar Land government, serving as a member of many committees. Currently, Gandhi serves on the Sugar Land Planning and Zoning Commission and was a member of the recent Redistricting Committee.  He has also served on the Sugar Land 4B Corporation for economic development and on the Building Standards Commission.

In addition to his community service for the City of Sugar Land, Gandhi is a graduate of several Sugar Land citizen awareness programs including Sugar Land 101, the Sugar Land Citizens Fire Academy, and the Sugar Land Citizens Police Academy. (more…)

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Planned Community Developers, Ltd. (PCD) will soon welcome Gem & Bead Gallery to its ever-growing list of retail tenants in Sugar Land Town Square. Gem & Bead Gallery is a family-owned and operated store specializing in the sale of beads, necklaces, gems, fine jewelry, rocks and other accessories.

Scheduled to open in February, Gem & Bead Gallery will be located at 16230 City Walk and will occupy 2,028 square feet of retail space. In addition to a large sales floor, the store will feature a classroom space where an instructor will teach beading and jewelry making. This will be the store’s third location – Gem & Beads Gallery currently has one storefront in Houston and one in Miami. (more…)

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Santhosh Sivarajan, a Sugar Land resident, has received the Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP) award for the second year in a row for his exceptional contributions to the technical community.  The Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP) (http://mvp.support.microsoft.com/)  is the highest award given by Microsoft to those it considers the best and brightest from technology communities around the world who actively share their technical expertise with the community and with Microsoft. (more…)

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The Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) continues to improve Fort Bend County by providing trained and effective volunteers to worthy charitable organizations through their volunteer and fundraising efforts. As a leading organization in Fort Bend County, FBJSL impacts the community with over 300 dedicated volunteers who will collectively donate more than 20,000 hours of service this year. Proceeds from various events and fundraisers have made it possible for FBJSL to raise more than $2 million for worthy charities in the Fort Bend community since its inception in 2001. “It is so rewarding to see how our members impact our community on a daily basis through their numerous and varied service efforts. Additionally, with the success of the 2011 Sugar Plum Market and the upcoming 2012 Charity Ball, we are so proud that FBJSL has reached and will surpass a significant milestone of having raised over $2 million for numerous agencies in our community”, said FBJSL President Catherine Kubala. (more…)

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Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital was the site of the Jan. 25th Sponsor Reception held by Fort Bend Cares to recognize sponsors for the Road Trip to RIO – The Ultimate Lounge Experience.  Fort Bend Cares is a charitable foundation that gives monetary grants to qualified 501©3 nonprofits that support the  physical, heath, educational, recreational and emotional needs of disadvantaged children in Fort Bend County.

The event brought together corporate and individual sponsors, non profits who had received grants from Fort Bend Cares in 2011, and Board members and volunteers affiliated with Fort Bend Cares. It provided an opportunity for the non profits to thank all the sponsors who provide the financial resources and for the sponsors to express their appreciation for the invaluable work done by each of the grant recipients
BLU, a newly reopened restaurant located in Town Center, provided a delicious array of appetizers.

Jill Curtis, Jim Rice, Scott Breeze

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Get ready to experience the glitter and glamour of the Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) 2012 Charity Ball and Casino ~ “Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend,” on Saturday, March 3, 2012, at the Sugar Land Marriott Town Square. This elegant gala, presented by Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, will be an unforgettable evening enhanced by a sumptuous dinner, sensational music and dancing to Password, casino games, a fabulous live auction, as well as a bid board and silent auction. Proceeds from the event will benefit Lunches of Love and the FBJSL Community Assistance Fund (CAF).

There will be a glittering menu of packages that will surely score a home run!  Here is just a very small taste of the live auction packages you can expect to see: (more…)

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It’s common knowledge that the health craze has hit Texas and there are gyms on many corners. However, there is one group of dedicated Sugar Land men and women taking work-outs to a new level and building friendships and health benefits expected to last a lifetime.

This group of professionals from diverse fields and age groups are training at Lifetime Fitness, Sugar Land, for Ironman Triathlon competitions in the area.

An Ironman Triathlon is one of a series of long-distance triathlon races organized by the World Triathlon Corporation consisting of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike and a marathon 26.2-mile run, raced in that order and without a break. Most Ironman events have a strict time limit of 17 hours to complete the race. (more…)

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The award winning B.F. Terry High School Varsity Choir sang the National Anthem for the Harlem Globetrotters when they performed at the Toyota Center Saturday, Jan. 28. The choir, under the direction of Ms. Rhonda Klutts, was also asked to sing last year, one of only two Houston-area choirs invited to perform for the national touring basketball team. From left, front row, Maria Carillo, Danielle Lopez, Bryson Baugus, Eric Gonzales, Alex Dy Cruz and Naylea Villarreal; back row, James Ives and Jacob Castro. Photo by Lindsie Lev.

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The Art Club at B.F. Terry High School meets Mondays after school, and the sponsor is Ms. Joan Batts. Officers are, from left, Treasurer Navdeep Kaur; President Shannon Rodriguez; Secretary Lorena Morin and Vice President Caley Grover. Students recently competed in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and are completing three-dimensional art works in any medium.

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FORT BEND ISD – Fort Bend ISD’s Student Health Advisory Committee (SHAC) members will take part in the Second Annual Darling Dash Memorial 5K Run and 1K Family Run/Walk on Sunday, February 26, from 8:00am to 10:00am, at Sweetwater Country Club (4400 Palm Royale Blvd., Sugar Land). SHAC members will form a team to walk and run in the race and serve as volunteers to help recruit participants.

Runners and walkers of ALL levels are welcome to participate in the Darling Dash. Registration completed online or postmarked by February 15 is $25 for adults (13 years and older) and $10 for youth (12 and younger). The registration fee after February 15 until race day is $30 adult and $15 youth. Post race refreshments will be provided. Awards will be presented to the top two male and female overall time; and to the top three male and female runners in six age categories: 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60-plus. The fundraiser event will benefit the “As One Foundation.” (more…)

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The Fort Bend ISD Building Utilization Committee met on January 31, 2012, and has two additional meetings scheduled in the next 30 days. The committee is reviewing the latest demographic data and growth trends within the District and will recommend any changes in school attendance areas to the Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees in March 2012. (more…)

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At a recent presentation at the Fort Bend Family YMCA’s outreach program site at Mustang Park Community Center in Fresno, TX, representatives from Wal-Mart presented the YMCAs of Fort Bend County with a check for $40,000 from the Wal-Mart Foundation’s State Giving Program.  The Walmart Foundation State Giving Program gift will help subsidize the operations of the seven YMCA Outreach Program Centers in Fort Bend County that are operated by the Fort Bend, TW Davis and Katy YMCA locations.  “We are so happy to partner with the YMCA in Fort Bend County to help ensure that children who are most at risk get the attention they need to help them grow and succeed in life,” said Todd Manley, Regional Vice President for Walmart. (more…)

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Fort Bend County’s new tactical, armored response and rescue vehicle is expected to enhance the safety of SWAT officers throughout the region.

Known simply as the Bearcat, the newly realigned Fort Bend Regional SWAT Team will utilize the vehicle for deployments throughout the county.

The Bearcat, which carries up to 10 people, can traverse a variety of terrains. The vehicle has been utilized by police for barricaded situations, high-risk warrants, active shooters, dignitary transport and more. (more…)

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Local bakery brings unique dessert concept to community.

One-of-a-kind Nothing Bundt Cakes − purveyors of nostalgic yet refreshingly modern Bundt cakes − is spreading its wholesome goodness to Sugar Land. The newest bakery is located at 1531 Highway 6, Suite 125 in Mody Plaza between Highway 59 and Fluor Daniel.

Nothing Bundt Cakes reintroduces an old family favorite – the Bundt cake – with a fresh, clean look that appeals to all ages. Each cake features custom concept cake decorations that are smart, contemporary and fun, customized to enhance any occasion. Nothing Bundt Cakes offers customers a wide range of cake selections, from Bundtinis – single serving cakes – to the larger Bundts that serve up to 18 people and tiered cakes, which serve up to 26 people. (more…)

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Fort Bend ISD has reopened the application process for entry into high school academies for the 2012-2013 school year. Current eighth and ninth-grade students who are interested in attending a high school academy are asked to complete and submit an online application for the academy of their choice. The deadline to apply is February 24. (more…)

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The Foster ProStart Management team ranked 3rd place in the 2012 ProStart Regional Competition held January 21 at the Humble Civic Center. They advance to State competition with a final score of 81.3 percent. The team’s highest-scoring area was Visual Display, with a score of 93 percent. The team consists of Team Captain Victoria Bowman, Diontre Journet, Colton Coyle and Akila Rogers. (more…)

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The “Show Me City” recognized Hightower High School’s football team, the Hurricanes,
for reaching the Class 5A Division I Finals at the City Council meeting held on Tues., Jan. 17. Following a winning regular season, Southlake Carroll came from behind three times to edge Hightower 36-29 in the Class 5A Division I state championship game played in front of nearly 43,000 at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington on Dec. 17. (more…)

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History will be made this spring when the Sugar Land Skeeters launch their inaugural season, bringing minor league baseball to Fort Bend County.  To mark this epic event, a Grand Opening Gala entitled “History in the Making” will be held at Constellation Field on Saturday, April 14, 2012.  This very special, one-time event benefitting the Sugar Land Heritage Foundation and Skeeters Youth Foundation will usher in a new era of Sugar Land history in style.  Wearing black tie or vintage jerseys, one thousand guests will be treated to a first look at the newly completed $35 million Constellation Field, located at the intersection of Highway 6 and US Highway 90A, one week before Opening Day.

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The Skeeters are set to host an open audition for game day entertainment at Constellation Field. The auditions will take place Saturday, Feb. 18, at the Imperial Theathre in Sugar Land Town Square from 8:30am-5 pm. Those who audition will be competing for the opportunity to work for the Skeeters in key positions and the chance to perform at Historic Opening Day on April 26 and other games throughout the season.

“With the opening of a new ball park comes the opportunity to give a stage and an audience to all forms of entertainers,” said Tom Gorman, Executive Producer for the Sugar Land Skeeters. “Not only are we trying to fill traditional baseball positions, like public address announcers and national anthem singers, but we are also looking for all sorts of entertainers and personalities. We are very curious to see what talents Sugar Land and the greater Houston area can bring to the stadium.”

(more…)

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The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department stocked Eldridge Lake with 500 rainbow trout on Feb. 1, adding to the bass, catfish and perch fingerlings that have been stocked in the past.  Trout are a cold-water fish that thrive when temperatures drop.

Sugar Land residents are welcome to fish the lake; however, all state fishing regulations apply – check www.tpwd.state.tx.us for up-to-date information. (more…)

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On Friday, January 27, 2012, Congressman Pete Olson was at Clements High School presenting a Humanities Texas Award; during his tour of the campus he requested to speak to the cadets.  He reflected on the units’ distinguished accomplishments and the value of the program to our nation’s future.  He answered cadets’ questions concerning the proposed Oil Pipeline and Protect IP Act 2011, just to list a few.  First year cadets were astonished to see Congressman Olson; amazed that he would find time in his busy schedule to visit them. However, the cadets that were in the program last year have great appreciation for Congressman Olson. Last year when the Navy elected to close the unit; Congressman Olson came to the rescue.  He wrote congressional letters, made phone calls, made personal visits and somehow convinced the Assistant Secretary of the Navy to visit Clements campus. (more…)

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Foster High School is home to the Regional Champions for Academic Decathlon. The team won the Region crown after competing January 20-21 in Porter. The team advances to the State Academic Decathlon Tournament, February 24-25 in San Antonio.

In addition to the team title, Foster won the Super Quiz Combined and was 2nd in Super Quiz Relay.Lamar Consolidated High finished 5th in the team standings. Foster’s Michael Duncan was the top scorer at the meet, with 8,673 points. Duncan placed first in the Honors Division, for students with Grade Point Averages (GPA) between 3.75 and 4.0. Foster’s Neil Byers was 2nd in the Honors Division.
Foster’s Laurel Toskey had the highest score in the Scholastic Division (GPA between 3.0 and 3.75) and Brad Killingsworth placed 3rd.
Foster’s Katelyn Byers was 4th in the Varsity Division (0.0 to 2.99 GPA). (more…)

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The David Crockett Middle School Parent Teacher Association, administrators, and counselors recently held the 5th annual Eighth Grade Career Day. The event invited various professionals from a variety of career fields to speak to students about what it takes to succeed in a globally fueled and competitive job market. Houston Dynamo Account Specialist Reyna Gonzalez kicked off the event and ESPN radio announcer Carl Dukes was the Keynote Speaker. (more…)

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Fort Bend ISD students are among 230,000 Texas students who will benefit from a $100,000 grant from the State Farm Youth Advisory Board to Junior Achievement (JA) of Southeast Texas. State Farm Agent, Darryl Mayo, presented the grant award to Rick Franke, president of JA of Southeast Texas, during a check presentation on January 26 at Ridgegate Elementary School. The grant will help fund JA’s financial literacy service-learning project, “What A Difference A Day Makes,” which allows high school students to serve as role models to younger students in their communities while sharing important knowledge about financial literacy, entrepreneurship and free enterprise. (more…)

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The Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees named Mike Hejducek as the new principal at Scanlan Oaks Elementary at its January 23 Board meeting.  Hejducek is an experienced educational leader and has served in public education for 23 years.  He most recently had served as the Head of Lower School for Grace School.  Prior to this role, he opened Scanlan Oaks Elementary in 2004 as its first principal and also served FBISD as an assistant principal and art teacher. (more…)

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Four Fort Bend ISD students have been selected by the United States Department of Education as candidates for the United States Presidential Scholars Program. Each year, up to 141 students are named as Presidential Scholars, one of the Nation’s highest honors for high school students. In honoring the Presidential Scholars, the President of the United States symbolically honors all graduating high school seniors of high potential.
The following Fort Bend ISD students have been selected as candidates for the United States Presidential Scholars Program: (more…)

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The first ever baseball game to be played at Constellation Field will feature two Sugar Land High School teams, Fort Bend Independent School District’s William P. Clements High School and John Foster Dulles High School, on Saturday, April 21.

“It is only appropriate that the community’s stadium open with two Sugar Land high schools playing a baseball game,” said Matt O’Brien, President of the Sugar Land Skeeters. “This event is the first of many community events that will take place at the stadium.” (more…)

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Sugar Land  and South West Houston’s premier swim club—First Colony Swim Team is beginning our 2012 Swim Clinics!

1. Winter Clinic—7 sessions Tuesday/Thursdays starting February 14.

2. Spring Clinic—7 sessions starting  Monday, April 2nd (more…)

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The Breast Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital (MSLH) welcomes Maria Socci, RN, to our Breast Care Team. Maria will serve as our Breast Care Navigator, a resource expert who will help guide breast cancer patients through the emotional and complex journey from diagnosis through survivorship.  Socci is a registered nurse with specialty training in oncology. (more…)

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Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land and the Fort Bend County Women’s Center want to know, “Are you ready to ‘See the USA in Your Classic Chevrolet’ at the Women’s Center’s annual 50’s and 60’s bash, Boogie 2012”? Tickets are available online at www.fortbendwomenscenter.org or by calling the Women’s Center’s office at 281-344-5750. This year’s event will be held at the Stafford Centre on Saturday, March 31, from 6:30 to 11:30 p.m. (more…)

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Sugar Land residents may soon receive phone calls asking about their satisfaction with City programs and services.

The City is continuing its citywide, every two-year telephone survey program conducted by Creative Consumer Research, an independent research firm based in Fort Bend County.  The statistically valid and random telephone survey will take about three weeks to complete and will be conducted beginning the last week in February.

“We conduct this survey every two years,” said City Manager Allen Bogard.  “We are proud of the level and quality of services and programs our residents currently enjoy, but we want to ensure that we continue on the right track.  Our citizens’ feedback is very important, and I respectfully ask our residents to take 15 minutes to answer the survey questions, if called.” (more…)

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