Winter Issue 2008  

Sugar Land News
 


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Students Win Awards in Technology Contests

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 16, 2008

Students from two Fort Bend ISD high schools were among more than 100 winners named in the Texas Computer Education Association’s (TCEA) 2008 Student Technology Contests. The contests invited students to use technology to create entries in the following categories: Digital Audio, Web Design, Digital Graphics, Multimedia, Desktop Publishing, Digital Video, and Animation. Winners from FBISD (in the 9-12 grade-level category) included:

Hightower High School – Michael Sherman, Sheena Shayesteh, and Travis Nguyen (2nd place in the Multimedia-User Interactive/Branching division for their project titled, The American Revolution)

Dulles High School – Cayman Nava and David Hsu (2nd place in the Web Publishing Design division for their project titled, Introduction to the game of Go)


Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council Donates Proceeds

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 16, 2008

The Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council donated more than $370 to help fund community health and fitness campaigns.  The proceeds were raised during MYAC’s annual “Big Day Out” celebration.  MYAC’s 2nd Annual “Big Day Out” at Oyster Creek Park provided an opportunity for families to learn about balancing healthy lifestyles with the busy day-to-day demands of work, school and everything in between.   The afternoon featured a community walk/run benefiting Shape Up Sugar Land and a “healthy lifestyle fair” that included Fort Bend Fit, 24 Hour Fitness, The Methodist Hospital, Sugar Cycles and many more.

Shape Up Sugar Land, a grass roots community group, plans to use the money to increase awareness of the benefits of good physical health and proper nutrition. The nonprofit organization is comprised of community and business leaders and has been instrumental in helping Sugar Land win “Fittest City in Texas” titles four years in a row.

MYAC is a City-appointed youth leadership group that empowers high school students from various backgrounds to become active members in the community by participating in the community and local government.

For more about MYAC, e-mail myac@sugarlandtx.gov.  Go to shapeupsugarland.org for more about SUSL.

 

Photo Caption: Sugar Land Mayor David Wallace and members of the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council present Shape Up Sugar Land with a check donating the proceeds of the 2nd Annual “Big Day Out” to Shape Up Sugar Land.  Pictured (L-R) are MYAC members Asia Khan, Carissa Gilbert and Rebecca Lee; Wallace; Margie Connolly and Leigh Mattson, of Shape Up Sugar Land; and MYAC member Marc Sabbagh.


Boys Selected to Compete in the Arsenal International Soccer Festival

Missouri City – Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 16, 2008

Marlon Connor and Jamie Flynn from the Missouri City United Soccer Association will be joining three other previous MCUSA players selected to play with the U11 Texas Flying Eagles.  As members of the team, the boys will be traveling to London, England in late July to compete in the Arsenal International Soccer Festival.  They will lodge at the Royal Holloway University in Egham, Surrey during the 10 day tournament which includes soccer teams from all over the world.  The pair play together locally on MCUSA's U10 Hawks coached by JD Shaw.  For more information on their trip or to become a sponsor for the team, visit their website at texasflyingeagles.com.


Art Attack Rolls On!

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 16, 2008

After months of working and designing, Sartartia Middle School (Fort Bend ISD) art students put the final details on their entry in the 21st annual Orange Art Car Parade. The event featured over 250 Art Cars, 200,000 plus spectators and media from all over the world, making Houston ground zero of an international phenomenon. It also made a dream come true for art teacher Brenda Tomasello, who at open house this school year, mentioned “if anyone one happens to have an extra car or golf cart, we would like to have it to decorate and enter in the parade”.  Miraculously the Deao family just “happened” to have a car to donate.

The students have worked as a team, used design skills and have been problem solving throughout the entire project.   The car was entitled “Art Attack” and was made almost completely from recyclable materials.

 

Pictured: Ms. Brenda Tomasello and Ms. Erica Hischke


Serial Bank Robbery Update

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 15, 2008

 

The Sugar Land Police Department believes the same man is responsible for several bank robberies in the Houston area, including one in Sugar Land. 

Known as the “Red-Gloved Bandit,” the suspect is described as a black male, about 30 years old, weighing 220 to 240 pounds, 6 feet to 6 feet 2 inches tall, with an athletic build.  The suspect wore gloves and a baseball cap in each of the following robberies: The Compass Bank, 11770 University Boulevard, in Sugar Land was robbed May 9.  The IBC bank, 10570 State Highway 6, in Fort Bend County was robbed March 19.  Anyone with information should contact Fort Bend County Crime Stoppers at 281-342-TIPS (8477) or Sugar Land Detective Kelly Gless at 281-275-2934.


Sidewalk and Road Improvements Bond Project

RosenbergSugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 15, 2008

At its May 6 meeting, City Council approved a Resolution to award a contract for $171,898.54 to Trinity Civic Contracting, Inc. (Trinity), a Rosenberg business, to fund sidewalk and road improvements on Reading Road and Mahlmann Street.  Trinity, the low bidder recommended by TRC Engineers, was one of seven bids received for the project.  

The sidewalk improvements project, one of four quality-of-life Bond Projects approved by voters in November 2006, will improve pedestrian routes to neighborhood schools, and is expected to be completed this summer before the beginning of the fall school year.

Other 2006 Bond Projects underway or close to completion include: upgrading and expanding the City’s 911 Communications Center; and the construction of restroom facilities at four city parks.  Questions regarding the sidewalk and road improvements project may be directed to the City’s Planning Department at 832-595-3500. 


SLPD Partners with Citizens Through E-Policing

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 15, 2008

Sugar Land’s newest tool in its arsenal to fight crime is an online collaboration intended to strengthen community partnerships.  Known as “E-Policing,” Crime Prevention Officers plan to expand an e-mail alert program intended to notify citizens on a regular basis of crime trends, safety tips and other important information. 

Each crime prevention officer is responsible for a portion of the City known as a beat, and through e-policing, they will address local issues to help citizens stay safe and informed.

To sign up for e-policing, go to www.sugarlandtx.gov, choose “Police Department” from the “Departments” menu, then select “E-Policing.”  Citizens may also contact 281-275-2951 for more information.


Mother’s Day Benefits Concerts

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 14, 2008

The eve preceding Mother’s Day was filled with angelic, harmonious music as four area harpists blessed the Sugar Land and Katy areas with their musical talent.  The May 10th Mother’s Day Benefits concerts were organized as a tribute to mothers and to promote awareness of and to raise funds for Pregnancy Resource Center in Sugar Land and Rosenberg and Pregnancy Help Center of West Houston in Katy.  The centers offer hope, encouragement, and life to those experiencing difficult pregnancies.  To learn more about Pregnancy Resource Center, you may contact Dorris Irving, Executive Director, at 281-325-0205. 


ACSI Art Festival

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 14, 2008

Students at Southminster School participated in the Association of Christian Schools International Art Festival at Clear Lake Christian Academy on Friday, April 18.

Students submitted art work for the school wide competition, the artwork of sixteen students ranging from Kindergarten to 5th grade was selected for the regional competition.  The regional winners include: Red Ribbon (Excellent) Gracie Christie, Annika Overstreet, Sarah Wang, Riona Saha, Sofie Caruso, Madison Wakefield and Claire Mullings; White Ribbon (Good) Morgan Pahl and Taylor Knight; Bronze Medal Donovan Gionis and Sadie Jenkins; Gold Medal Brynne Jacobs, Daniella Baltazar and Victoria Baltazar.  Special congratulations go to Michelle Guerra for winning one silver medal and two gold medals.  We are so proud of all of our artists and their hard work!

 

Medal winners pictured from left to right are Teacher Marty Dial, Daniella Baltazar, Brynne Jacobs, Victoria Baltazar, Michelle Guerra, Donovan Gionis, Sadie Jenkins and Parent Volunteer Liz Guerra.  


Womens' Club of Missouri City Awards Scholarships

Missouri City – Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 13, 2008

The Women's Club of Missouri City ended the year on a high note, honoring six graduating seniors and also the Habitat for Humanity programs at Dulles and Elkins High Schools.  President, Nancy Thurmond, welcomed members and guests, congratulating the club's membership on raising over $10,000 during 2007-08.  In the last six years, the WCMC Legacy Scholarships with recent presentations awarded $31,000 in scholarships to Missouri City seniors.  Honorees this year from Elkins High School were Justin Cornett,  Jessica McLellan, Piarose Siatong, Ivette Soto, and Justin Thomas.  The scholarship recipient from Dulles High was Zoya Alam.  The Habitat for Humanity programs at Dulles and Elkins High Schools were awarded $2000 each.  Students represented from Dulles were Brittany Bathe, Michael Rosner and Ryan Kercheval, with Dulles sponsor Kay Slack Beard. Students represented from Elkins were Alex De Sosa and Bianca Tankersly with Elkins sponsor Frank Pye.

 

The Women's Club of Missouri City presented the Elkins High School Habitat for Humanity group with a $2000 check at its meeting on May 6th.  Shown L-R are WCMC president Nancy Thurmond, member Milly Smith, and students, Bianca Tankersly and Alex De Soso with sponsor Frank Pye. 


U13 Revolution Ends Season Proudly

Missouri City – Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 13, 2008

The Missouri City United Soccer Association proudly announces their U13 Revolution boys team recently finished up their absolutely fantastic Spring season of competition in the Houston Youth Soccer Association.  In addition to placing second at the West Houston Tax Time Tournament in April, the team also came in first as part of HYSA's Division 2 bracket.  The team finished with a record of 9-1-1 scoring a season high of 53 goals while only allowing a total of 7 from their opponents.  Adding to that, 4 players from the U13 Revolution coveted 4 out of the top 5 spots for individual goals scored in Division 2.  Players garnering that special recognition were Kirby Guidry (12), Alexis Ramirez (6), Ali Elsaadi (6), and Anthony Paz (6). 

 

Shown with their proud and winning smiles are top (l-r) Coach Kip Guidry, Vilvesh Srinivasan, Cesar Garcia, Ali Elsaadi, Daniel Duenas, Coach Ed Chavez, Daniel Hernandez, TJ Bonnington, Alexis Ramirez, Ross Lasris, and Coach Art Duenas; bottom Anthony Paz, Kirby Guidry, Chad Chavez, Rence Troiano, James Owens, Taylor Burell, Leonardo Ayala, and Ricky Chien.  Not pictured are Josue Baltazar and Esteban Franco. 


Ribbon Cutting for All-Tex’s New Location

Richmond-Rosenberg – Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 12, 2008

Long-time member of the Rose-Rich Chamber of Commerce, All-Tex Networking Solutions, Inc., moved to a new location recently.  They are now at 1815 Mons Avenue, Rosenberg.  The Ribbon Cutting was held on 5/6/08 at 11:30 am. 

 

Front row: Joy Dowell, Gena Ricklefsen, Darren Rastegar, J. Harley Johnson III, Ginger Johnson, Frances Hausler, Cathy Borowiak, Russell Hill, Kristin Ferguson.  Others not listed.


The Rockets Finish Spring Season

Missouri City – Sugar Land News

Posted May 12, 2008

Some of the littlest players from the Missouri City United Soccer Association, also known as "The Rockets", recently finished up their Spring season by smiling proudly for their parental cameras.  The boys had fun playing soccer together while learning basic skills, sportsmanship, and team play from Coaches Roger Williamson, Carl Boutte, and Gerard Matthews.  

 

Pictured from l-r are Jared Benton, Jaydn Whitsett, Camryn Matthews, Isaiah Calagon, Kyle Boutte, and Darius Robinson.


Ladybugs Spread Cheer

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 12, 2008

Ann Mathur, Vicki Latham and Chanel Simone at the Greatwood Retirement Facility

The Ladybugs, a social/civic organization in Sugar Land, recently visited the Greatwood Retirement Facility to spread cheer to the elderly ladies there for Mother’s Day.  They held a special raffle to see which residents would win beautiful pot plants, corsages, and delightful toiletries.  The group also passed out beautiful Mother’s Day cards, delicious candies and home baked cookies.  The elderly ladies all beamed with delight when they received the nice gifts and expressed their appreciation to this special group.  If you would like to be a Ladybug and give something back to the world, or just interested in socializing and having fun, contact Ms. Latham at 281-384-4006. 


Missing Runaway Girls - FOUND

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 11, 2008 - Updated 5/12

The Sugar Land Police Department is searching for three missing girls believed to be runaways.  They have now been found and are safe.

   

Ashley Mann, 15 (left), Kyla Davenport, 14 (center), and Lauren Watson, 13 (right), were last seen in Sugar Land early this morning (5/10).  A vehicle they were believed to be in was found disabled in a parking lot near Austin and Capitol in downtown Houston this morning.  Anyone with information about the girls should contact SLPD at (281) 275-2525.


Bank Robbery

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 11, 2008

The Sugar Land Police Department is investigating a robbery that occurred today (5/9) at 4:40 p.m., at the Compass Bank, 11770 University Boulevard. 

A man demanded money from a teller and left with an unknown amount of cash.  The suspect was described as a black male, about 30 years old and 6 feet to 6 feet 2 inches tall.

Anyone with information should contact Fort Bend County Crime Stoppers at 281-342-TIPS (8477) or Sugar Land Detective Kelly Gless at 281-275-2934.


First Colony Swim Team Masters Make a Splash at Open Water Swim

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 11, 2008

Six members of FCST Master recently swam in the Rice Aquatics Open Water Carnival at Twin Lakes in Manvel, Texas. 

 

Swimmers and their events included (left to right) Audrey Earley – 2 mile, Mike Engelking – 1 mile, Nathalie Dulac - 1 mile, Jean-Claude Dulac – 1 mile, Karl Schuler – 1 mile and Carin Landeck – 1 mile.  Congratulations to the following swimmers that won their age group: Audrey Earley, Mike Engelking and Carin Landeck.

The mission of FCST Masters is to promote fitness, health, wellness, competition, and love for the sport of swimming to all levels of adult swimmers. Our goal is to meet every swimmer at their current level and help them achieve their competitive or fitness goals.

For more information about First Colony Swim Team Masters Program visit swimfcst.com/swimfcst/


Local Poets Join McAuliffe Middle School’s Poetry Month Celebration

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 11, 2008

In celebration of Poetry Month, McAuliffe Middle School welcomed local poets Donna Garrett and Se7en (pronounced seven) to the campus to recite some of their original works and lecture students on the art of poetry. Garrett and Se7en entertained questions from the students and asked students to share some of their own poetry.

 

Pictured (from left) are: student Jabar Simmonds, poets Donna Garret and Se7en, student Robinique Lilly (who shared a poem she wrote honoring her cousin) and Library Media Specialist Nekisha Perkins.


Art Contest Winner Named at Sugar Land Middle School

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 11, 2008

Sugar Land Middle School students and staff (and especially art teacher, Beth Agar) are celebrating the success of eighth-grader, Han Wu, who was named winner of the Texans Against Crime creative art contest. Sponsored by the Sugar Land Police Department (SLPD), the contest invited middle school and high school students to create artwork that could be used for promotional purposes, including t-shirts and posters, in spreading awareness of the Texans Against Crime (TAC) event. TAC was formed by the East Texas Crime Prevention Association and replaces National Night Out in encouraging residents to meet their neighbors and show support for fighting neighborhood crime. Han’s picture will be printed on posters and displayed throughout the Sugar Land area during the SLPD’s crime prevention campaign in October.

 

Shown congratulating Han is SLPD Crime Prevention Officer, Todd Zettlemoyer. [photo, SLMS Police Art, provided by Sugar Land Middle School]


Teacher Appreciation Week at Travis Elem.

Rosenberg - Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 11, 2008

During Teacher’s Appreciation Week, the men and women who educate children are recognized for their service.  At Travis Elementary, one teacher has just returned to serve the children of Rosenberg, after a stint of serving her country.  Chief Operations Specialist and Travis Elementary 5th-grade teacher Jessica Myers has just returned to the classroom after a 9 ½ month deployment to the Middle East.

Upon her return, Travis principal Kevin Winter presented her with a frame containing Myers picture and a flag flown over the Kuwait Naval Base. Myers had the flag flown especially for Travis in honor of their support for her and her comrades. The flag is on display at the school.

 

Travis Elementary principal Kevin Winters presents a framed United States flag to Jessica Myers.


Teacher Association Banquet

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 11, 2008

Two members of the staff at Smith Elementary took top honors at the annual Lamar Classroom Teacher Association Banquet.  Smith 5th-grade teacher Ruth Ann Maus was named Elementary Teacher of the Year, while Smith teacher aide Ingrid Ireland earned Elementary Paraprofessional of the Year honors.

Foster High English teacher Karen Nutt took home Secondary Teacher of the Year honors. Lamar Junior High’s Becky Melendez, secretary to an assistant principal, earned Secondary Paraprofessional of the Year.

Other awards were also given to several deserving teachers, paraprofessionals, and staff members of Lamar CISD. 

 

Caption ( l to r) Lamar Classroom Teachers Association Elementary Paraprofessional of the Year Ingrid Ireland, Elementary Teacher of the Year Ruth Ann Maus, Secondary Teacher of the Year Karen Nutt and Secondary Paraprofessional of the Year Becky Melendez.


Sugar Land's Cutest Baby Contest, in Partnership with Sugar Land Magazine

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 10, 2008

Sugar Land's Cutest Baby Contest was held today.  Winners will be announced soon! 

Image


Terry High Students Receive Gold Medals

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted 5/9/08

Terry High’s Catherine and Colleen Seitz (Hospitality Services Management Event) received gold medals for making the top 20 in the nation out of 160 other teams (320 students) and 13,000 other DECA students at the DECA International Career Development Conference in Atlanta.  Terry students Ariana Rosales and Caitlin Woodfin also made it to Atlanta to compete. All the competitors are students of Robyn Burkhart.

 

Robyn  Burkhart, Ariana Rosales, Colleen Seitz, Catherine Seitz, Caitlin Woodfin at the Georgia State Aquarium.


Lamar CISD Students Meet Governor Perry

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted 5/9/08

Gov. Rick Perry today honored the Fall 2007 University Interscholastic League (UIL) state champions in athletics, academics and music.  Among the champions honored were the Class 4A Division I Football Champions, the Lamar Consolidated Mustangs.

Approximately 500 students, coaches and superintendents traveled to the state Capitol to celebrate the accomplishments of individual and team champions. Texas Education Agency Commissioner Robert Scott, UIL Director Bill Farney and Assistant Director Charles Breithaupt were also part of the celebration.


Campbell Elementary Students have Lemonade Stand

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted 5/9/08

Seven friends at Lamar CISD’s Campbell Elementary decided it would be fun to have a neighborhood lemonade stand. When they tallied up the profits, they had earned $7. After contemplating what to do with the money, one of the entrepreneurs, Will Dolan, suggested they donate it to people who need it. His mother, Betsy Dolan, thought it was a great idea and told the kids about the Common Threads program. The children really liked the idea and even donated some of their gently used uniform shirts to the program.

 

Shown with their lemonade stand are: front row: Brynn Johnson and Jeevan Arianayagam; standing by the lemonade stand: Will Dolan and Maria Gleason; behind the lemonade stand: Arianna Arianayagam, Shayden Johnson and Abbey Engler.


Videoconferencing Enhances Learning

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted 5/9/08

Blue Ridge Elementary School presented a Writing PALS Videoconferencing Distance Learning event that allowed fourth-grade students in Tahseen Qureshi’s homeroom class to apply TAKS (Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills) writing strategies in writing classroom essays. Blue Ridge set up their videoconferencing station in the school’s READ 180 Computer Lab. There, students were able to share their essays that were written about an important person in their lives with their Writing PALs from Willowridge High School, who were set up in their school’s library. The event helped motivate fourth-grade students to perform well on the writing section of the TAKS test.

 

Shown reading his essay is fourth-grader, Martir Diaz. photo, BRE DistanceLearning


Dulles Sophomore Earned Eagle Scout Recognition

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted 5/9/08

 

Faisal Hassan, a 16-year-old sophomore student at Dulles High School, was recently awarded the Eagle Scout recognition, and has earned 25 merit badges. He is a member of Scout Troop 797, Houston, TX. In addition, Faisal is a member of the Sugarland Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council, is active in the YES (the Youth Expanding Service) Program, is a member of the Dulles Debating Team, and is a member of the Fort Bend Tennis Team.  


City Issues Two Proclamations and Announces Winner of Theme Contest

Rosenberg - Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted 5/9/08

Mayor Joe M. Gurecky issued two proclamations at the City’s regular Council meeting on May 6 declaring May 5-11 as “Building Safety Week” and May 18-24 as “National Public Works Week.”  Rebecca Covell, Marketing and Public Affairs Director, announced the winner of a city-staff contest to develop a theme for the City’s 125th Anniversary.  “Rosenberg…A True Texas Community 125 Years in the Making” was selected as the official anniversary theme.  The theme’s author and winner was Nelda McGee, Assistant Manager of the City’s convention Center.  McGee was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation by Mayor Gurecky and the contest prize of $125.

    

(left) Building Safety Week:  L-R, Mayor Joe M. Gurecky, John Brown

(center) National Public Works Week: L-R, Mayor Joe M. Gurecky, Kenneth Jansky

(right) 125th Anniversary Theme Contest:  L-R, Mayor Joe M.  Gurecky, Nelda McGee, Rebecca Covell


Literacy Council Honors Tutors

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted 5/9/08

The tutors of the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County were honored at the 2008 Tutor Appreciation Brunch held Saturday, April 12, 2008 at Pecan Grove Country Club.

Mayor Wallace was the key-note speaker and student speaker, Rosemary Porciuncula, spoke on behalf of the students describing their appreciation to their tutors.  Tutors were honored for various levels of service.    

To learn about LCFBC, please visit ftbendliteracy.org or call 281-240-8181 for more information.

         

(left) Tutors volunteering 15 years or more:  Ed Tye and Mina Fong.

(right) Mayor David Wallace with student speaker Rosemary Porciuncula following her presentation.


OakBend Laboratory Receives Accreditation

Richmond - Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted 5/9/08

OakBend Medical Center’s Clinical Laboratory has been awarded an accreditation by the Commission on Laboratory Accreditation of the College of American Pathologists (CAP), based on the results of a recent on-site inspection.

Surya Kantipudi, Laboratory Director was advised of this national recognition and congratulated for the “excellence of the services being provided.”  OakBend’s Laboratory is one of more than 6,000 CAP-accredited laboratories nationwide. The CAP laboratory Accreditation Program is recognized by the federal government as being equal to or more stringent than the government’s own inspection program.

 

Photo left to right: Back row - Chu Ofor, Daylis Karwowski, Jon Cheek; Middle row - Janice Barnes, Kristal Orellana, Susan Murray; Front row - Ed Uthman MD, Surya Kantipudi. New


National Day of Prayer Observed

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted 5/9/08

 

Many churches, businesses, and schools observed National Day of Prayer with prayer events.  Nearly 450 gathered at Town Square to pray for our nation and altogether more than 700 gathered at city halls in Fort Bend County to pray.


U14 Quest Boys Team Takes First Place

Missouri City - Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted 5/9/08

Representing the Missouri City United Soccer Association, the U14 Quest boys team took first place in last weekend's Sylvan Beach Tournament in Deer Park.  The team ended with a perfect record of 4-0 while scoring 14 goals and allowing only one from their opponents in the four game round robin format. 

 

Proudly displaying their trophies and smiles are front (l-r) Ronald Romero, Marco Albarran, Erick Marcia, Fermin Yanez, Gabrile Bentacourt, and Jordan Martinez; standing John Garza, JT Fuesilier, Christian Reyes, Coach Joe Perez, Mario Esquivel, David Herrera, Juan Hernandez, Ian Voohries, Josue Parada, and Team Mom Lucy Albarran.


Three Lamar CISD Schools Honored by the Texas Education Agency.

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted 5/9/08

Bowie, Ray and Travis elementary schools were all honored as 2007-2008 Title I, Part A Distinguished Performance schools. Out of the thousands of schools in Texas, only 134 received this honor, with only 14 in the Greater Houston area.

The schools were recognized at a reception at the Region IV Service Center in Houston.

     

(left) Bowie Elementary teachers Stephanie Kolacny, Kim Etheridge and Jackie Schutz, with principal Rick Amick.

(middle) Travis Elementary teacher Nancy Valdez, Lamar CISD Executive Director of Elementary Education Dr. Eva Reed, and teachers Rebecca Geary and Rhonda Rodriguez, in front of principal Kevin Winters.

(right) Ray Elementary teachers Tracey Wittneben, Deanna Keene and Sherry Michna with principal Diane Parks.


Student Selected To Visit Nasa This Summer
Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted 5/9/08

 

Elizabeth Wong of Clements High School in Sugar Land will travel to NASA's Johnson Space Center (JSC) in Houston, Texas, this summer to participate in a one-week summer
internship. Nominated by Kyle Janek she has been selected as one of 350 high school juniors from across Texas to be part of High School Aerospace Scholars (HAS). They have been working to complete 10 Web-based assignments during the school year. They will apply what they have learned during the year, which will challenge them to work as part of a team to design a mission to Mars. The weeklong experience at JSC includes a tour of JSC facilities and briefings by noted NASA employees including astronauts. These students and teammates will conclude their experience by presenting their proposal at a luncheon to their parents, members of the Texas Legislature, Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Rotary NASA, and JSC senior management.


10-year old Wins Fencing Award

Missouri City - Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted 5/9/08

 

A member of the Fencing Club that holds classes at the Missouri City Community Center has won a top fencing award for the Southwest Region. 10-year-old Morgan Davie came in first and won a gold medal in the 2008 North American Cup competition in the Southwest Section, which includes Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas and Mississippi.  The event was held  in Portland, Oregon.  She competed in both epee and foil competitions, and will advance to the U.S. Summer National Competition in July, which will be held in San Jose, California.  The Fencing classes are one of many offered by the City's Parks and Recreation Department. All residents and others may sign up for the programs. For more information, contact Recreation Specialist Jennifer Milam at 281-403-8500.


Hundreds Turn Out for Missouri City Health Fair
Missouri City - Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted 5/9/08

 

Over 300 people turned out for the Fifth annual Missouri City Health Fair to learn about many new products and services offered by 30 vendors showcasing the latest of both. Cosponsoring the event along with Missouri City was the Office of State Senator Rodney Ellis.  The City's Parks & Recreation Department offered a special Nintendo Wii demonstration, featuring tennis, bowling, boxing and other virtual sports contests. Large, yellow cloth bags, printed with the City's community events for the year, were seen filled with free samples, along with health care and fitness products, such as complimentary pedometers, eyedrops, and even fresh apples given to the hundreds of participants showing an interest in improving their health.  


Sugar Land Team Walks for Arthritis

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted 5/9/08

2008 Houston Arthritis Walk is the Arthritis Foundation's annual nationwide event that raises awareness and funds to fight arthritis, the nation's leading cause of disability. It is a tremendous opportunity to help improve the lives of the 46 million men, women and children doctor-diagnosed with arthritis. The Sugar Land "WALKER TEAM" walked in honor for the ones with arthritis.  The Walker Team together raised funds to support the Arthritis Foundation research, public health and public policy efforts to improve the lives of people with arthritis.

 

(left to right) Leigh & Lauren Mattson, Stacey Cain, Sam Walker, Deborah Scott, Gordy Walker, Lucas Cain, Rosa Briant & Michelle Walker. Dogs Lucy, Spike and Milo.  (Dogs can get arthritis too!)  Photo made by Joanna Garcia/JTG Studio with permission to use.


System to Enhance Emergency Notifications

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted 5/9/08

Sugar Land has acquired a state-of-the-art emergency notification system to quickly communicate with citizens by residential, business or cell phone as well as e-mail, text message or devices for the hearing and speech impaired.  The system will allow citizens to register unlisted numbers for emergency contact through the city’s Web site - www.sugarlandtx.gov.

Built for cities, towns and counties, the Connect-CTY service allows local government to reach thousands with one phone call.  The service is a web-based solution that allows authorized staff members to send messages via the public telephone networks, as well as by text and e-mail. And, if no computer or Internet connection is available, emergency calls can be made using any telephone to access the Connect-CTY service.

Primary residential and business phones in Sugar Land will be automatically included in the system.  The City will soon begin collecting e-mail addresses, cell phone and unlisted landline numbers to also be included in the Connect-CTY communication service.  Citizens will be able to add their emergency contacts through a link on the City’s Web site.


Sugar Land Regional Airport Among Best in Nation

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted 5/9/08

Aviation International News (AIN) ranks Sugar Land Regional Airport’s Fixed Base of Operation (FBO) the fifth best in the nation.   SLRA was the only City-owned FBO to make the prestigious list, finishing ahead of many nationally known airport operations. 

SLRA was the only city-owned FBO to make this year’s survey.

Sugar Land Regional Airport is the fourth largest airport in the greater Houston area and the foremost general reliever airport in the southwest sector.


Fireworks & Fun for 4th of July Celebration

Missouri City - Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted 5/9/08

Missouri City’s newest park is the new location for this year's spectacular 4th of July celebration. The City’s 24th annual July 4th Celebration will be held at Buffalo Run Park for the first time. It has been moved to a new area with plenty of room for all the planned fun and entertainment.  Attractions this year include face painters, balloon artists, magicians, a stilt walker and, of course, lots of good food, fun and a spectacular fireworks display.      The park will be closed to motorists beginning at noon on the 4th of July. Guests are invited to park at the high school and walk to the park. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs. However, coolers are not allowed.  The City's Parks and Recreation Department is currently seeking vendors for the 4th of July event, especially food vendors with a "cajun" flare. For more information, contact Jennifer Milam at jmilam@missouricitytx.gov.


Fire Station No. 1 Wish Granted by Houston’s 106.9 The Point

Rosenberg - Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted 5/9/08

Fire Chief Kathleen Hutchens has reported the City’s Fire Station One will get some new furniture thanks to Volunteer Lieutenant John Arnold’s call to Cox Radio’s 106.9 The Point (KHPT-FM) to participate in their “Point to Your Dreams!” program.

The program asked listeners to submit a 50-word essay describing a dream they would like fulfilled, either for themselves, family, or an organization. 

Volunteer Lieutenant Arnold reported his essay explained that “Station One has old furniture that’s been around a long time. Due to budget restraints, the Department has never had the opportunity to purchase comfortable furniture for the firefighters. I wanted something the firefighters could relax on and something that would make the station more of a home; many times we have families visiting the station and right now there is no place for them to sit.”


Support of Troops Earns Sugar Land Pro Patria Award

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted 5/9/08

Sugar Land’s support of employees serving their country in the United States military earned the City a Pro Patria Award.  Police Sgt. Trever Nehls, currently serving in the U.S. Army as a major in the 451st Civil Affairs Battalion, nominated Sugar Land for the prestigious award.  The Civil Affairs Battalion is responsible for economic development efforts, including working with civilians and rebuilding schools. 

The Texas Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) chose Sugar Land from among 100 state nominations. The Pro Patria Award is given to employers that have institutionalized programs and services to go above and beyond lawful expectations in supporting their employees serving in the Guard and Reserves.    


City Volunteers Recognized

Rosenberg - Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 5, 2008

Mayor Joe M. Gurecky and Rosenberg’s City Councilman recognized the City’s 113 volunteers at their annual Volunteer Appreciation Banquet held April 30 at the Rosenberg Civic and Convention Center.

Stanley Kucherka was honored for his 46 years of service on the Parks and Recreation Board and 14 years on the City’s Image Committee. Others recognized include Elizabeth Conway for 14 years on the Police Support Services Division, Joe Grillo, Jr. for 12 years on the Planning and Zoning Commission,  Dr. William Hester for 15 years on the Animal Control Shelter Advisory Board, Bertha Nell Kelm for 19 years on the Parks and Recreation Board, Anton Kostak for 18 years on the Parks and Recreation Board, Mary Kubenka and Mary Mendoza for 12 years on the Police Support Services Division, Ernie Rodriguez for 16 years on the Parks and Recreation Board, Janie Warstler for 15 years on the Parks and Recreation Board, Christy Willman for 11 years on the Image Committee, and Benny Wleczyk for serving for 18 years as the City’s representative on the Fort Bend Subsidence District.  Three area high school representatives who volunteer on the City’s Image Committee were recognized and include: Mandy Cupit from Lamar High School, Brandy Lowrey, from Foster High School, and Catherine Seitz from Terry High School.


Cheerleaders off to College

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 5, 2008

Cheers to five Foster High School seniors who will be taking their cheerleading skills to the collegiate level in the fall.

 

(from l to r) Jenna Wells will be cheering the Bearkats at Sam Houston State University; Lauren Lev will be rooting on the Hilltoppers of St. Edwards University in Austin; Ali Ping will bring spirit to the Bobcats of Texas State University; Julie Christiana will encourage the Baylor University Bears to “Sic ‘em; and Danielle Hope will flash the “hook ‘em”

sign at the University of Texas.


Lemonade Day

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 5, 2008

 

Lemonade Day is a community-wide event hosted by Prepared 4 Life through which children learn how to start, own, and operate their own lemonade business.  Amegy Bank of Texas is the title sponsor and Jeff Bagwell is the official spokesperson for Lemonade Day 2008.  Trenton (age 9) and Winston Roy (age 4) are Sugar Land residents who operated their business at Kroger on Sweetwater.  It was a fun, educational activity in which these “lemonade chefs” enjoyed serving their customers as they learned how to be successful entrepreneurs.  Thank you to everyone in our community who helped to make their first business endeavor a wonderful success!


5th Grade Pride Day

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 5, 2008

 

The entire fifth grade class from Lantern Lane Elementary recently held their "Fifth Grade Pride Day" at school by wearing their custom designed class t-shirts and participating in activities for a day of fun.  Students took turns signing each other's shirts which were designed by fifth grader Nicholas Garner.  Each year, a contest is held among the students for the design of the shirt with the subsequent purchase and printing donated by Lantern Lane PTO.  Up and onward for the Yellow Jackets and the Class of 2015! 


Cinco de Mayo Celebration

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 5, 2008

Students and staff at Ray Elementary got an early start on Cinco de Mayo, with a visit from Los Arrieros Mariachi group.

  

(left) Ray teacher Deana Cantu and student Abigail Lopez show the crowd the Macarena.

(right) Ray student Lisette Longoria provides the dance steps as assistant principal Ben Perez looks on.


Thanks Rosenberg for Making “Spring Cleanup” a Success

Rosenberg - Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 5, 2008

Rosenberg’s annual citywide cleanup event, a project of the City’s Image Committee, was held Saturday, May 3 and has been deemed a success by Kenneth Jansky, the City’s Public Works Director. Rosenberg’s Spring CleanUp is funded by the City as a public service for Rosenberg residents.  City staff manned both collection centers from 8 am to 5 pm during the one-day event collecting approximately 1,100 cubic yards of trash from approximately 650 residents.

  

(left) City staff unload trash and distribute to rolloffs.  (right) Filling rolloff. 


Forbes Includes Sugar Land Among Nation’s Top Suburbs

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 5, 2008

Sugar Land’s selection as a “Top Suburb to Live Well” adds to a growing list of national accolades that include America’s third “Best Place to Live,” the nation’s fifth “Safest City,” one of the “100 Best Places for Young People”, and more.

The latest recognition came from Forbes.com’s compilation of the best standard of living suburbs for the country’s 15 largest cities.  An analysis of data compared school quality, crime rates, income and education levels and homeownership rates for every incorporated and unincorporated town, city and village within 25 miles of the major city.


Hospitals Earn VHA Leadership Awards

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted May 5, 2008

VHA Inc., a national healthcare alliance, has awarded four Memorial Hermann hospitals a total of six 2008 VHA Leadership Awards for Clinical Excellence for meeting or exceeding national performance standards for clinical care in specific areas from the third quarter of 2006 to the second quarter of 2007. 

Memorial Hermann Southeast Hospital and Memorial Hermann Northwest Hospital were recognized for being ventilator associated pneumonia (VAP) free for 12 consecutive months.  Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital and Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital received recognition for being VAP free and bloodstream infection free for 12 consecutive months.  All hospitals were honored at VHA’s Leadership Conference in Philadelphia on May 4. 


GT Class Helps Alex’s Lemonade Stand

Sugar Land, Texas News

Posted April 30, 2008

It started as a math project in Keri Allen’s fourth grade GT class.  In the end, students at Campbell Elementary not only learned math, but also about how good it feels to give.