Dr. Roosevelt Nivens this week named the 2026 AASA National Superintendent of the Year. The announcement was made during the National Conference on Education, hosted by AASA, The School Superintendents Association.
The announcement marks the second time in its history the award has gone to a Texas-based superintendent, and the first Texas winner since 2001, when then-Houston ISD Superintendent—and later U.S. Secretary of Education—Rod Paige was awarded the top national honor.
“This is a truly unbelievable moment, and I’m incredibly grateful and humbled,” Nivens said in a news release. “When I think of my own journey growing up and the incredible impact that dedicated, passionate educators made in my own life, it makes me thankful every single day that I’m able now to help pay that forward and lead a team in Lamar CISD that’s having that same kind of impact on future generations.”
Now in its 39th year, the National Superintendent of the Year program is co-sponsored by AASA, Corebridge Financial and Sourcewell, recognizing exceptional superintendents for their outstanding leadership and dedication to advancing public education in their communities.
In December, Nivens was named one of four finalists from across the country for the prestigious award, after being named the 2025 Texas Superintendent of the Year by the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) in September 2025.
Lamar CISD is currently the fastest-growing district of its size in Texas and has been designated a hypergrowth district due to the large number of new homes and families moving to the area. This school year, the district serves more than 49,000 students at 57 campuses, with enrollment forecasted to grow to nearly 70,000 within a decade.
“The landscape of public education is evolving, and Lamar CISD is evolving right along with it, leading the way with innovation, integrity, high standards of accountability, and plenty of joy and heart as well,” Nivens said.
By Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM
Early voting began Tuesday in the March 3 primary elections, including local Congressional races in the 2026 midterm elections as well as state and county-level races. Early voting continues through Friday, February 27. Any runoff elections will be held on May 26. On the federal side, there are primary elections in both the Democratic and Republican parties for the U.S. Senate seat long held by Republican John Cornyn, who is facing stiff challenges from primary contenders Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and U.S. Rep. Wesley
Hunt of the Houston-centered 38th District. On the Democratic side, the main contenders are U.S. Rep.. Jasmine Crockett of the Dallas area and Texas Rep. James Talerico, who represents part of central Texas.
The three Congressional House districts that represent parts of Fort Bend County also have primary elections. They are the 22nd District seat held by outgoing Republican Troy Nehls of Richmond, the 7th District now held by Democrat Lizzie Fletcher of Houston, and the recently redrawn 18th District, which includes much of the Fort Bend territory that was
Black History Month celebration set for Feb. 21 at George Memorial Library
Community
Reports
On Saturday, February 21, from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., the George Memorial Library in Richmond will host a Black History Month Celebration. At 10:30 a.m. in the Children’s Area, author Sanyu Ntanda will have a book reading and a craft activity. Sanyu is a UgandanAmerican children’s book author based in Houston. She draws inspiration for her children’s books from her formative years spent in both Ghana and Uganda. Her debut children’s book, Jama and the Search for Courage (for ages 4-8 years), was published in February 2025. She is also the author of Riding With Mama (for ages 4 years and below) and the Jama and Family Coloring & Activity Book (for ages 3-9 years). At 10:30 a.m. in the Computer Lab, genealogist lecturer Ari Wilkins will offer a Family-History Research presentation: Scaling the 1870 Brick Wall in African American Research. For many, researching before 1870 is a hurdle in African American research. Learn about sources and strategies to trace ancestors back into
the Antebellum Era. Seating is limited for this program, so registration is required.
At 1 p.m. in the Bohachevsky Gallery, RAD Crew Productions will perform The Rad Hip-Hop Show! - A highly entertaining show that teaches the true essence of Hip-Hop by breaking down the positive side of the culture. The show is a comedic and educational performance that inspires the audience by teaching them the elements of the culture. The elements include: MCing, DJing, graffiti, and breakdancing. The audience will learn the origins of Hip-Hop and will receive an in-depth breakdown of each element in a fun, exciting way. Afterward, a few volunteers from the audience will be able to learn and demonstrate some common breakdancing moves, and they are then encouraged to show off their own favorite moves.
At 2 p.m. in the Bohachevsky Gallery, Sarah Anderson, a Heritage Diet Curriculum Coordinator, will offer “A Taste of African Heritage” Cooking Demonstration. She will share insights into the cultural history and nutritional benefits of traditional
foods, along with a live cooking demonstration. Learn how heritage foods connect culture, wellness, and community through time-honored ingredients and cooking traditions. “African diaspora” is the term commonly used to describe the mass disper-
sion of peoples from Africa during the Transatlantic Slave Trade. These African ancestors landed in regions that featured different foods and cuisines, as well as other cultural influences. They combined these local influences with their own foods
and knowledge to create the unique dishes now found in African heritage cooking.
At 3 p.m. in the Bohachevsky Gallery, “Cowboy Larry” Callies will speak about The Black Cowboy Museum. Callies opened the Rosemberg mu-
seum on Juneteenth in 2017 to honor and preserve the history of Black cowboys. The museum has received significant acclaim, attracting more than 20,000 visitors from all over the world and being featured in major publications like the New York Times and Ebony magazine. Most notably, Netflix featured the museum and Callies in its docuseries High on the Hog. Through his museum, Callies ensures that the contributions of Black cowboys, including his own ancestors, are brought to light and celebrated.
All day, in the Bohachevsky Gallery, photographer Brian Edwards, Jr.’s photography collection will be on display all day. Brian, a Houston-based photographer and filmmaker, brings the rich narrative of Black cowboy heritage to the forefront with his exhibit, “On My Way Home: Everything the Light Touches.” Edwards, who grew up in Dayton, a town with deep roots in this tradition, has captured the essence of this often-overlooked aspect of American culture. George Memorial Library is located at 1001 Golfview Drive, Richmond.
HAR: Area housing market shows signs of balance in January
Staff Reports
The regional housing market kicked off the new year with familiar signs of adjustment, as inventory expanded, homes spent more time on the market and demand remained steady, according to the Houston Association of Realtors.
According to HAR's January 2026 Housing Market Update , single-family home sales declined 1.0 percent from a year earlier, with 4,999 homes sold compared to 5,047 in January 2025, marking the fewest transactions recorded since January 2023. Pending sales rose 8.5 percent year-overyear, signaling continued buyer interest. Home prices were mixed during January. The median home price edged down to $322,045, its lowest level since January 2024, when it stood at $320,000. The average price rose 2.8 percent to $416,722, driven largely by more activity in the luxury market.
The luxury segment –comprised of homes priced at $1 million and above and representing just 4.2 percent of all homes on the market – was the strongest-performing sector, with transactions up 15.5 percent year-overyear. Activity slowed in the $250,000 to $499,999 price range, which accounted for more than half of all home sales in January.
As inventory expanded, homes averaged 66 days on the market, up from 61 days the previous year. That marked the longest average days on market since
NIVENS FROM PAGE 1
“It’s an honor to represent and lead Lamar CISD, and the reality is that our success is created by the work of so many dedicated, talented people across our district, teachers and staff, parents and community partners, together with our awardwinning board of trustees, who play such an important role in making our district shine,” he said.
Nivens has served as the Lamar CISD Superintendent since 2021. He also currently serves as President-Elect of the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA). Previously, he served as the Superintendent of Schools for Community ISD in a rapidly growing part of the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The son of two educators, his public education career is centered around advocating for and supporting the very best educational opportunities for all students. He began his career as a teacher and coach in Dallas ISD, and served as an assistant principal, principal, and later as
The regional housing market began 2026 with familiar signs of adjustment, according to the Houston Association of Realtors. File photo
February 2020, when homes averaged 68 days. “Right now, buyers have more choices and a bit more time to make decisions, while sellers are adjusting to a market that’s becoming more balanced,” said HAR Chair Theresa Hill with Compass RE Texas, LLC - Houston. “With rates expected to ease a little this year, buyers who have been waiting on the sidelines may start to feel more confident and enter the market. That should help maintain demand and create additional opportunities for sellers throughout the year.”
Housing Market Overview
Sales of all property types across the Greater Houston area declined 2.2 percent year-over-year in January, with 6,045 properties sold.
Assistant Superintendent of Achievement and Organizational Management in Lancaster ISD.
Lamar CISD Board of Trustees President Jacci Hotzel, along with other trustees and district leaders, traveled to Nashville to support the superintendent and be there for the announcement. Hotzel offered congratulations on behalf of the trustees and thanked Dr. Nivens for his dedicated leadership and bold vision for the district’s future.
“Dr. Nivens is a superintendent who leads with a servant’s heart, but also with the big-thinking mindset necessary for the continued success of our schools and students,” Hotzel said in the release.
“Lamar CISD is growing at an amazing rate,” Hotzel said.
“Dr. Nivens talks often about the incredible responsibility that comes with that growth, and how important it is to build on the success we’ve experienced—both for the future of our community and for our students. We’re blessed to have him leading our school district, and we’re excited to be building Lamar CISD’s future together.”
While there were more transactions of country homes and lots compared to last year, activity slowed across all other property types. Total dollar volume slid 1.6 percent to $2.4 billion.
The number of active listings of all properties was 15.7 percent above the 2025 level, with 54,589 available properties.
Single-Family Homes Update
Demand for single-family homes was relatively consistent in January, with sales 1.0 percent below last year’s level. Buyers purchased 4,999 homes during the month, down from 5,047 a year earlier.
The median price declined 0.9 percent to $322,045, while the average price increased 2.8 percent to $416,722. The average price per square foot
VOTING FROM PAGE 1
in the 9th District long held by Democrat Al Green of Houston. In the Democratic primary, Green is challenging incumbent Christian Menefee, the former Harris County County Attorney who last month won a special election to fill out the remainder of the seat’s term.
Primaries are being held in all statewide and Texas House of Representative races, including for governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general (being vacated by
RENEWAL FROM PAGE 1
followed, a second reading of the agreement renewal did not have to be voted on because the earlier reading did not pass. The vote to reject the agreement renewal followed an incident Friday morning when a gas leak was reported at the intersection of Sienna Parkway, one of the city’s busiest thoroughfares, and McKeever Road. In a video posted later that evening Mayor Robin Elackatt. Elackatt said that after arriving at the scene, emergency workers determined that a 6-inch gas line had been struck. Fort Bend County hazardous materials teams were
slid to $171, the lowest level since January 2024, when it stood at $169. Good news was continued improvement in affordability due to year-over-year dips in mortgage rates and median prices. The monthly mortgage principal and interest payment in January 2026 was $1,561.26, assuming a 20 percent down payment on a median-priced home based on monthly interest rates as reported by Freddie Mac. In comparison, the January 2025 payment was $1,722.81. As a result, homebuyers of a median priced-home in January 2026 paid $161.55 less monthly or almost $2,000 ($1,938.56) on an annualized basis. Houston housing affordability has improved in 15 of the past 18 months. Active listings of singlefamily homes rose 16.6
Paxon), comptroller, the heads of state commissions, election board and judicial races.
In Fort Bend County, the most-watched race will undoubtedly be that for Fort Bend County Judge, who acts as the county’s chief executive officer and presides over Commissioners Court. The race takes on extra drama this year as incumbent KP George, who originally was a Democrat but last year announced his switch to the Republican Party, is vying for reelection even as he faces a felony money-laundering trial set for March 10, fol -
dispatched to assist with air monitoring, Elackatt said.
“The City has determined that the leak was caused by a construction crew in the area,” he said, identifying the crew as a subcontractor of Ezee Fiber, a firm which provides fiberoptic internet service. Sienna Parkway was closed in both directions near the site of the leak, he said. The city coordinated with CenterPoint Energy to repair the gas line, he said.
Elackatt said the city immediately stopped all active Ezee Fiber right-of-way work permits within the city limits. He asked residents who live outside the city’s annexed portion of Sienna to contact Fort Bend County officials.
“This gas leak further high-
percent from a year earlier to 34,570 available properties. Housing supply expanded to 4.7 months of inventory, up from 4.2 months in January 2025. The National Association of Realtors reports a national average of 3.3 months. Broken out by housing segments, single-family home sales performed as follows:
• $1M and above: increased 15.5 percent (209 transactions) HAR also breaks out sales figures for existing single-family homes. In January, sales were flat, with 3,422 closings compared to 3,433 a year ago. The average sales price rose 3.8 percent to $428,152, while the median price was unchanged at $320,000.
Townhome/ Condominium Update
It was a slow start to the new year for the townhome and condominium market. Sales declined 25.9 percent year-over-year, with 269 units sold compared to 363 last January. The aver-
lowed by a misdemeanor trial in May. George is facing four challengers on the Republican side. Another five candidates are competing on the Democratic ballot.
On Commissioners Court, longtime Precinct 2 Commissioner is running for reelection on the Democratic side, facing several challengers. The Precinct 4 seat now held by Dexter McCoy is wide open as McCoy vies for the Democratic nomination for County Judge.
After last year’s countylevel redistricting of county precinct and voting precincts,
lights the issues with public safety along Sienna Parkway caused by housing density and limited roadway capacity,” Elackatt said in the video.
“The City of Missouri City demands that Sienna/Johnson Development and its affiliates, Sienna HOA, and Fort Bend County come to the table and help address these issues.
In a separate item during Monday’s regular meeting, the council unanimously passed an amendment to the city’s infrastructure design manual, last adopted in 2019, with additional requirements for right-of-way permits for all public utility companies. City Engineer Vincenzo Corazza told Council that “subsurface utility engineer-
age price fell 8.6 percent to $226,343, while the median price declined 11.9 percent to $185,000, the lowest level since February 2021. Inventory levels continued to expand, reaching a 7.6-months supply, up from 5.5 months a year earlier.
Houston Real Estate Highlights in January
• Single-family home sales declined 1.0% year-over-year.
• Days on Market (DOM) for single-family homes went from 61 to 66 days.
• The single-family median price declined 0.9% to $322,045.
• The single-family average price rose 2.8% to $416,722.
• Single-family home months of inventory expanded to a 4.7-months supply, up from 4.2 months a year ago.
• Townhome and condominium sales were down 25.9% with 269 units sold. The median price declined 11.9% to $185,000, and the average price was down 8.6% to $226,343.
• Total property sales declined 2.2% with 6,045 units sold.
• Total dollar volume was down 1.6% to $2.4 billion.
Editor's note: The HAR report, lightly edited, is used by permission. Find the full report at har.com/ content/department/ newsroom?pid=2218.
many voters may not be familiar with their current voting lines. Information on voting precincts, sample ballots, and polling elections can be found at fortbendcountytx. gov/government/departments/ elections-voter-registration. The League of Women Voters of Texas offers a nonpartisan voters guide for U.S. Senate and state elections at lwvtexas.org. Physical copies of the guide can be found at area libraries. Information on local races can be found at the interactive website vote411.org.
ing” that companies previously would provide upon request by the city would now be mandatory. Among the facets of that engineering is the use of ground-penetrating radar to facilitate the location of gas pipes and the like. In response to a question from Council member Joanna Ouderkirk, City Manager April Jones said the new requirements apply only to the portion of Sienna within the city limits, not to the portion that still lies with the city’s extraterritorial jurisdiction.
Videos of both meetings can be found at
On Saturday, February 21, from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., the George Memorial Library in Richmond will host a Black History Month Celebration. File photo
EDITORIAL
The tide is out
GTT, for you newcomers who did just that, GTT was what pioneers wrote on their cabin doors in places like Tennessee and Alabama which meant “Gone To Texas.” They did then and they still come, but not so many these days. Maybe the bloom has worn off our beloved state (Motto: Shoot Friendly). Perhaps word got out that neither the Astros nor UT made the playoffs. It could be that Muslims are no longer welcomed by our governor. ICE has deported thousands among us and have kept a lot more from coming in to swat mosquitoes. On the other hand, they are missing out on a lot: sunsets on the seas while sipping a margarita (OK, they can do that in Acapulco), but not the thrill of Rodeo Houston, Friday Night Lights, watching our attorney general getting impeached.
So the bad news is that not as many people are moving to Texas. The good news is that not as many people
Iwas adopted at birth. I have never met my birth mother, and I do not know who my birth father is. For most of my childhood, this sat quietly in the background of my life as a fact I understood but did not yet feel. It wasn’t until middle school that my adoption shifted from something I knew to something I became and was forced to confront. As a little girl, I was inseparable from my mom. She was safety in its purest form. I measured comfort by her presence and love, by the way she showed up for me in ordinary moments. But somewhere between childhood and adolescence, something between us fractured. In sixth grade, I began pulling away from her and by the end of middle school we seemed to clash constantly. At the time, I blamed independence. I told myself I was just growing up. In reality, I was growing unsure of where I belonged. The comments started subtly. “You don’t look like your mom.” “Your mom is so fair, so you must look like your dad.” It always felt easier to nod than to explain that
Lynn Ashby Columnist
ASHBY2@COMCAST.NET
are cheering for the Red Sox, wondering why we hold open the elevator door for them or not putting beans in our chili. Nevertheless, the head counts are in for this change. Not to burden you with statistics, but to simply explain why the For Sale sign in your front yard has been there since Halloween. For openers, the first U.S. Census of Texas in 1850 counted 212,592 folks. That included 154,034 white inhabitants and 58,558 “colored” (that was the unfortunate term used) inhabitants. It didn’t include the Native Americans I think because any census counters sent there never returned. The state qualified to have exactly two members in the U.S. House of Representatives, but just like all the other states, two senators. Today
we have a population of more than 31.7 million (including Native Americans) and 38 representatives, but still only two senators.
In more recent times, Texas was booming with newcomers in 2022, when the state’s population increased by 219,000 new residents from other states. Last year, though, that number dropped to about 67,000 – a 70% decline. Over all in 2025, Texas added a total of 391,243 people. This marks the slowest growth rate since 2021. Even so, it was the most of any state. One major reason for the lower figures was the 48% decline in international migration, which dropped from 319,569 immigrants in 2024 to 67,475 newcomers in 2025. It’s easy to see why our international population fell by so much. Our southern border is closed and Gov. Greg Abbott has run off all our foreign professors. There are other reasons fewer folks want to come here, and I’ll give you five: 1. We’re full. 2. We’re running out of water. 3. And electricity. 4. Our public schools are being deliberately starved for funds. 5. Our state leaders are nincompoops – accent on poops.
So the flow of newcomers is slowing down, but before we start offering free housing, these new figures are relative – and most of your relatives are already here –so let’s remember, again, that more people are moving here than to any other state. For the last three years, more than 1,200 people have been moving to Texas each day. For years the total increase was one half births over deaths, one half were immigrants. Today it’s about one third births over deaths, two thirds immigrants. Clearly we need more sex in our lives. Our population is second among the states to California which, for the first time in its history, California is losing population. At this point you may be thinking, “I don’t care. My job on the pig-rendering line is safe.” Sure, now there are fewer outsiders who will want your fantastic job. On the other hand, or piggot (that’s a pig’s foot but you knew that), the run on ham sandwiches and BLTs may be slowing down.
If you feel there are actually a lot more people around, that’s because you live where more are arriving. As we have noted, the largest growth in
the state is in the Metroplex, south down I-35 to the AustinSan Antonio area and here in the Houston six-county region. Vast parts of Texas are losing population, mostly in West and South Texas, but it’s pretty widespread. Around half 9or sometimes more than half) of the 254 counties have lost their population in recent years. Just between 2022 and 2023, 75 of the state’s counties shrank in population.
Another point: despite the best, or worst, efforts of Abbott and Attorney General Ken Paxton, Texas is definitely DEI – diversity, equity, and inclusion. Take that, UT and Texas A&M regents. Fort Bend County, for example, is statistically one of the most ethnically diversified counties in the nation. This leads us to, what else, food. Bloomberg Businessweek reported: “Houston boasts a deep diversity that makes it one of America’s most enticing culinary cities.” If you want proof, Google “Houston area restaurants.” There are around 10,000 of them, so be specific. You want Afghan cuisine? ISSI or Taliban? With shrapnel sauce? What flavor of napalm do you prefer to cook
Finding belonging
I was adopted. So I agreed and told them I just had a tan and looked like my dad. What I did not know was every time I agreed and hid who I truly was, something inside me shrank. I have dark hair and tan skin; my mom has blonde hair and green eyes. I am a Hispanic, Jewish girl raised in a white family in a predominantly white neighborhood. Even in a diverse school, people often gravitate toward those who look like them. I felt trapped between worlds where I was not fully mirrored at home, or reflected anywhere else. I envied girls who shared their mother’s eyes, their smiles, their obvious belonging. I longed for that visible connection.
As a middle schooler, my thoughts were dramatic and unforgiving. I began to internalize narratives that were never spoken aloud.
The girl whose birth father did not know she existed. The accidental child. The second option. The one who did not quite match. I interpreted difference as deficiency. I mistook uniqueness for not belonging. Without realizing it, that insecurity hardened into misplaced anger. I lashed out at my mom constantly and found myself crafting a wall between us. Funnily enough I did not resent my mom, but I resented the parts of myself that felt out of place. She became the safest target for emotions I did not know how to process. We are strikingly similar in personality: the same humor, the same energy, the same intensity. We are also both strong-willed and quick to react. Arguments escalated easily. Voices rose. Feelings lingered unresolved. Beneath every conflict, however, was something I could not yet articulate. This feeling that I was not enough surged through me and started to control my every action.
High school deepened that insecurity. I became hyperaware of my appearance, my differences, and how I compared to others. I searched
for validation in places that could not provide it. By junior year, I reached a breaking point and made decisions I regret. I found myself unraveling emotionally and mentally exhausted. I was terrified to let my mom see that version of me because after all, she was my mom. She had been my guide and here I was letting her down. How could this woman who had overcome so much in her own life raise a daughter who could not even handle high school? I did not want to confirm the story I had long told myself. I did not want to disappoint my mom. I did not want to let her down or ask for help which was a big mistake.
Of course she found out.
But she did not leave. She did not withdraw her love. She did not reduce me to my mistakes and did not shame me for my actions. Instead, she stepped closer. She listened without accusation. She offered guidance without judgement. She helped me piece myself back together when I felt fragmented. In my lowest moments, she remained a constant and someone for me to lean on.
It was then that I began to understand something that had always been true: my mother never saw a mismatch. She never saw a second choice or a burden. She saw her daughter. The child who made her a parent just as profoundly as she made me a daughter. I once believed she deserved a child who looked exactly like her. A sweet little blonde girl with bright pink cheeks and freckles. But now, I recognize that belonging was never about appearance. It was about commitment and choosing one another through conflict, through misunderstanding, and through growth. My skin color means nothing, and my hair is irrelevant to her love.
She loves me as much as any mother could love their child even though I do not look like her. For all she cares, I could be neon pink with glitter polka dots, and her love would remain unchanged. Today, I no longer see myself as the girl who did not quite fit. I see a young woman shaped by resilience, reflection, and unconditional love. My connection with my mom extends beyond biology or resemblance. It is rooted
your Ukrainian steak? Service may be a little slow since most of the waiters, buspeople and cooks are in an ICE warehouse outside Dilley. Earlier I listed five reasons prospective newcomers might not want to write GTT on their condo door, so to be fair here are five reasons to come to Texas: 1. You’ll have a lot in common with your neighbors: “youse guys,” “fuhgeddaboudit,” “Go Mets!” (Do you ever think the Border Patrol is watching the wrong river?) 2. Cheaper housing, but don’t use a real estate agent who shows you around a neighborhood in a glassbottom boat. 3. Pro-life is the law, and Roe v. Wade is not a debate on how best to get across the Rio. 4. Great selection of food (see above) and 5. We have an election coming up in November. To vote, take along the passport issued to you at the Texas consulate back in Chicago. So welcome to Texas. We’ll hold the elevator door open for you.
Ashby migrates at ashby2@ comcast.net
in years of shared laughter, difficult conversations, stubborn debates, forgiveness, and unwavering support. It is strengthened by our mistakes and our clashes. It goes further than a simple mother daughter connection. We are Eva and Allyson Morris, daughter and mother. She is not only my mother. She is my safe place, my person, and my rock. She is who steadies me when I forget who I am. It took distance, mistakes, and maturity to recognize the depth of what we share. But now that I do, I understand something clearly: I was never an outsider in my own home. I was always her daughter. And she was always my mom. That will never change.
Morris is a Ridge Point High School student, class of 2027, a varsity tennis player, and an active member of JCC Maccabi Houston.
If you are a Fort Bend County high-school-age student (public, private, charter, or homeschool) who might be interested in becoming a Youth Columnist, please send an email to editor@fortbendstar.com.
‘Giving Voice’ concert set for Friday at The Fort Bend Church
Community Reports
Houston Grand Opera will present the seventh annual Giving Voice concert, presented this year through a newly formed partnership with The Fort Bend Church, on Friday, February 20 at 7:30 p.m. at the church campus located at 1900 Eldridge Rd., Sugar Land.
The Giving Voice concert series began in 2019, when internationally celebrated tenor Lawrence Brownlee set out to create a platform that would honor Black voices in opera. This year’s event will mark both the centennial of Black History Month and the 250th anniversary of the United States with a program of arias and songs performed by a group of outstanding operatic soloists and ensembles.
“Giving Voice is such a special night of joy and community,” Khori Dastoor, Houston Grand Opera General Director and CEO, said in a news release. “We launched this annual celebration with Larry Brownlee to shine a light on the extraordinary beauty and power that Black artists bring to our stages each season. The concert also creates meaningful opportunities for HGO to connect with audiences across the Houston region, in spaces beyond the Wortham Theater Center. We are thrilled to begin a new partnership with The Fort Bend Church for this year’s Giving Voice, and grateful to be welcomed into their spiritual home.”
“Hosting Giving Voice at The Fort Bend Church is an extraordinary blessing,”
Reverend Byron C. Stevenson, Senior Pastor and Founder of The Fort Bend Church, said.
“As we commemorate the centennial of Black History Month and approach the 250th anniversary of our nation, this concert provides a powerful opportunity to honor the enduring legacy of Black artistry. It also allows us to celebrate the hope, resilience, and God-given gifts that continue to shape our future. We are grateful to partner with Houston Grand Opera in welcoming our community for a night of inspiration, unity, and
praise.”
Soloists performing at Giving Voice include mezzo-soprano J’Nai Bridges, who performed the role of Lucinda in HGO’s 2023 worldpremiere opera Intelligence, which has been nominated for a 2026 GRAMMY Award for Best Opera Recording; baritone Donnie Ray Albert, whose many roles at HGO include Porgy in the company’s iconic 1976 production of Porgy and Bess and Lord Capulet in Romeo and Juliet in 2022; bass-baritone Michael Sumuel, whose recent HGO
roles include Porgy in the company’s record-breaking fall 2025 production of “Porgy and Bess” and Sharpless in another blockbuster, “Madame Butterfly” in 2024; and Tyler Martin, an award-winning flutist and member of the HGO Orchestra.
Also performing as soloists are three members of HGO’s Butler Studio program for young artists: soprano Elizabeth Hanje, tenor Demetrious Sampson, Jr., and bass-baritone Sam Dhobhany. Joining the soloists is the esteemed Kevin J.
Miller on piano. The concert will feature performances from The Fort Bend Church Music Ministry; Voices of Houston, a choral ensemble dedicated to the performance and practice of the Negro Spiritual; the Houston Ebony Opera Guild, which showcases African American choral/opera singers from round the nation; and the HGO Chorus.
Conducting throughout the evening will be Keith Eason, Minister of Music for The Fort Bend Church; Christopher Carter, Founder and Artistic Director of Voices of Houston; and Gregory D. McDaniel, Artistic Director of the Houston Ebony Opera Guild. The evening will be emceed by Emmy and Gracie Award-winning journalist Linda Lorelle, former anchor of the evening news at KPRC, who now serves as CEO and Executive Producer of Linda Lorelle Media, a multimedia production and communications firm. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit HGO. org/GivingVoice or call the Box Office at 713-228-6737.
Soprano Elizabeth Hanje, a member of Houston Grand Opera’s Butler Studio program, will be one of the featured artists at HGO’s ‘Giving Voice’ concert at The Fort Bend Church in Sugar Land on Feb. 20. Photo by Michael D. Bishop, courtesy Houston Grand Opera
Eva K. Morris Youth Columnist
LEGAL NOTICE
Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a Mixed Beverage Permit (MB) with a Food & Beverage Certificate by Mike Jack Enterprises LLC, DBA- Miles And Memories Social Lounge to be located at 3230 S. Main Street, Stafford TX 77477
Owner of LLC is Michael L Jackson, Sr
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Scott M. Brown & Associates Expands Operations with New Sugar Land Office, Extending Family Law Services Across Fort Bend County
SUGAR LAND, TX — Scott M. Brown & Associates, a Texas family law firm with established offices in Angleton, Pearland, and League City, proudly announces the opening of its new Sugar Land office, further expanding its commitment to serving families across Fort Bend County.
The new office is conveniently located at 12808 W. Airport Blvd., Sugar Land, Texas 77478, and is now open and accepting new clients. Residents may contact the office directly at 281-393-4184 to schedule a consultation.
The Sugar Land office marks a strategic expansion for the firm, which has experienced continued demand for family law services throughout the greater Houston and Gulf Coast regions. This new location provides families in Sugar Land and surrounding communities with convenient access to experienced legal counsel in divorce, child custody, child support, and complex domestic litigation.
“Expanding into Sugar Land is a natural next step for our firm,” said Scott M. Brown, founder of Scott M. Brown & Associates. “We already serve families throughout Brazoria and Galveston Counties from our offices in Angleton, Pearland, and League City. Establishing operations in Sugar Land allows us to better serve Fort Bend County families with the same level of focused, hands-on advocacy we’ve provided for decades.”
Scott M. Brown brings more than 25 years of experience in family law and is board certified in Divorce and Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Fewer than one percent of attorneys in the State of Texas hold this certification — a distinction that reflects advanced training, substantial trial experience, and peer-reviewed expertise in the field.
The Sugar Land office will serve clients throughout the area, including Meadows Place, Townewest, Covington Woods, and nearby communities. By establishing a physical presence in the city, the firm aims to reduce barriers to access while offering continuity of representation in cases that often involve long-term personal and financial consequences. Scott M. Brown & Associates limits its practice exclusively to family law, an intentional focus that allows the firm’s attorneys to dedicate their full resources and experience to one of the most complex areas of the legal system. The firm represents clients at all stages of family law proceedings, from initial filings through post-judgment enforcement and modification, combining measured counsel with disciplined courtroom advocacy. With multiple offices across Texas and extensive experience in state and local family courts, the firm’s expansion into Sugar Land reflects a broader commitment to serving growing suburban communities with sophisticated legal representation typically associated with larger metropolitan firms.
The Sugar Land office is now open and scheduling consultations. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Scott M. Brown & Associates at 281-393-4184.
Sugar Land invites artists to join mural competition
Community Reports
The City of Sugar Land is calling on local and regional artists to bring creativity, culture, and community spirit to life through a Mural Art Commission. This Request for Proposal (RFP) invites artists living or working in Sugar Land or Fort Bend County to submit proposals for a sitespecific mural celebrating family, community, and togetherness, while capturing the excitement and global energy of professional soccer. Selected artwork will debut during the International Art & Kite Festival at Crown Festival Park on March 21 and later be installed in a highly visible public location within the city. Artists will design and paint a 36-inch fiberglass soccer ball, transforming the threedimensional form into a bold, engaging work of public art. Designs should draw inspiration from the sport of soccer and the global excitement of international competition while remaining original and reflective of Sugar Land’s distinctive culture, environment, and people.
Selected artists will be provided with a scheduled opportunity to prime and prep the 36-inch fiberglass soccer ball in advance of the live painting session. This preparation period is intended to support high-quality execution during the public installation and allow artists to focus on detail, storytelling, and engagement during the festival. For complete RFP, visit www.sugarlandtx.gov/ SoccerMuralRFP.
Important Dates:
• Submission Deadline: February 22 at 7 p.m. (CST)
• Finalist Notification: March 4
• Final Proposal Due: March 13
• Live Artwork Installation: March 21 during the Sugar Land International Art & Kite Festival • Final Reveal: TBD Artists must submit all required materials by the deadline to: civicarts@sugarlandtx.gov For questions or additional information, please contact: civicarts@sugarlandtx.gov.
Staff Reports
A Fort Bend County judge recently sentenced a man to 25 years in state prison after the man pleaded guilty to continuous sexual abuse of a young child, according to a news release from the Fort Bend County District Attorney's Office.
Jason Alfred Sanderson, 39, a Dominican immigrant, was charged after the child reported the crime to a trusted adult, according to the release.
An investigation by the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office and Hillsborough County, Florida Sheriff’s Office revealed that Sanderson began sexually abusing the child victim in 2022 in Hillsborough County, Florida and that the abuse continued into 2023 in the Katy and Richmond areas of Fort Bend County.
During the investigation, Sanderson was interviewed by investigators with the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office and admitted to the sexual abuse in both jurisdictions. Sanderson is expected to face criminal charges in Florida.
“Children inherently trust the adults in their lives to protect them from harm. Jason Sanderson violated and weaponized that trust. It is my hope that the sentence gives
strength and power to this family and the young child," lead prosecutor Elizabeth
“It’s a good day when we can get a significant sentence without having to expose the ence of a trial,” Fort Bend County District Attorney Brian Middleton said in the release. “The defendant will be 65 years old when his sentence expires, and our neighborhoods will be free of this threat for Sanderson was prosecuted in the 268 th District Court before Presiding Judge Steve Rogers. Continuous Sexual Abuse of Young Child is a first-degree felony punishable by 25 to 99 years, or life, in prison, without the possibility of parole. The sentence will be served day-for-day by Texas law.
Child Advocates of Fort Bend can be contacted at 281-344-5100 or through the website, www.cafb.org.
Sanderson,
Approximately 100 couples took part in the "From Sugar Land, With Love" mass wedding event in the Council Chambers of Sugar Land City Hall on Saturday, which happened to be Valentine's Day. Municipal Court Judge Matthew Montes officiated the nuptials. The event, which was offered at no cost to couples, was moved indoors from the plaza of Sugar Land Town Square because of inclement weather. A similar event was held at Fort Bend County's William Travis Building in Richmond. Photos by Ken Fountain
Eric Garcia and Nora Ramirez check in at Sugar Land City Hall after registering to take part in the
"From Sugar Land, With Love" event.
Groom Drew Parks and bride Reyna Lazo walk down the aisle in the Sugar Land City Council Chambers.
The full gathering of couples wait for the official nuptials to begin. Sugar Land Municipal Court Judge Matthew Montes begins officiating the nuptials.
couple exchanges vows.
Couples exchange rings at the event. A couple exchanges rings.
Newly wed brides toss their bouquets following the ceremony.
Deadline is noon every Friday. Limit entries to the “5 Ws” Who, What, When, Where, and Why. Email to editor@fortbendstar.com FOR NON- PROFIT EVENTS
FORT BEND COUNTY HISTORICAL COMMISSION MEETING
The Fort Bend County Historical Commission will hold its quarterly business meeting at 3:00 pm, Tuesday, February 17 at the Gus George Police Academy Classroom 1, 1521 Eugene Heimann Dr., in Richmond. The Commissioner of the Year Award for 2025 will be presented to Ana Alicia Acosta, who will also provide a presentation on the Texas Treasure Business Award Program, sponsored by the Texas Historical Commission.
ONGOING
ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE CLASSES AT GPBC
In conjunction with the Literacy Council of Fort Bend Bend County, Grand Parkway Baptist Church will offer ESL classes on Tuesday nights from mid-August 2025 through May 2026. We are located at 12000 FM 1464, Richmond, across from Austin High School. Our students speak several languages and encompass many faiths, all are welcome. For more information call 281-277-2200 and ask for ESL information. You may also email ESL@grandparkway.org
EMMY-NOMINATED FORT BEND BOYS CHOIR HOLDING AUDITIONS
The Fort Bend Boys Choir is seeking talented young boys who like music and singing. If know of one, encourage him to audition for our award-winning and Emmy-Nominated Fort Bend Boys Choir! No experience is necessary and boys should be around eight years of age or older with an unchanged voice. Auditions are by special appointment at the First United Methodist Church Missouri City, 3900 Lexington Blvd., Missouri City, TX. Visit the Fort Bend Boys Choir’s webpage at www.fbbctx.org or call (281) 240-3800 for more details about auditions. Benefits as a choir member include greater self-esteem and selfconfidence, better work ethic and a sense of belonging and community. A boy’s voice has an expiration date so it is important to audition when boys’ voices are still unchanged. Auditions are free!
AMERICAN LEGION POST 942
311 Ulrich Street, Sugar Land meets the fourth Tuesday of each Month at 7:00 pm. All Veterans are welcome.
LOVING FRIENDS IS A GROUP OF WOMEN AND MEN WHO ARE WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS THAT MEET MONTHLY FOR LUNCH, FRIENDSHIP, AND SOCIALIZATION Lunches. are planned for the fourth Tuesday of the month at various local restaurants. Please contact Bobbie Tomlin at {281} 967-0718 For more information about us and to learn about this month’s planned lunch. We hope to meet you soon.
QUAIL
VALLEY GARDEN CLUB
The Quail Valley Garden Club is very busy, not only with meetings, but with some fun “stuff” for our members and the community. Please find our fall schedule of events that the QVGC will be involved with this fall leading up to the holidays. FBJSL IS ACCEPTING CAF GRANT APPLICATIONS
We provide grants of up to $5,000.00 to charitable causes serving Fort Bend County with requests to fund a critical need, pilot a program, or expand a significant service to the community. If your agency or organization is interested in applying for a CAF grant, please visit the Request Support page of the FBJSL website (www.fbjsl.org/request-support). All applications should be submitted via e-mail to brccom@fbjsl.com.
FOSTER CARE SERVICES
SANCTUARY
THE
We are a child placing agency that provides wrap around care support for foster children and foster families. We provide free therapy services, 24 hr. crisis intervention, respite/alternative care services and community-based support. For more info, www.sanctuaryfostercare.org
ALIEF AARP CHAPTER 3264
Meets the first Thursday of every month at 10:00 a.m. at Salvation Army Church, 7920 Cook Road, Houston, TX 77072. Educational Program/Entertainment at each meeting. Bus Trips every month. Seniors 50 and above invited. Call 281785-7372 for more information.
SUGAR LAND ROTARY CLUB
Sugar Land Rotary Club, the nation’s oldest community service organization, wants you to be its guest at a meeting that could turn out to be the best fit for getting involved with a local, non-political, humanitarian service organization with a global presence to satisfy your passion. We’re on a quest for new members! Call or email Dean Clark, 832-987-4193, sugarlandrotaryclub5890@gmail.com We just started a new evening club also. Contact me for more info.
Space Cowboys to host National Anthem singer auditions
Community Reports
The Sugar Land Space Cowboys will host auditions for singers and musicians to perform the National Anthem at Sugar Land home games in 2026 on Tuesday, March 3 from 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Auditions will be held at Constellation Field and all participants must sign up to audition in advance by filling out a form found at milb.com/sugar-land/forms/2026anthem-auditions.. The Space Cowboys are looking for traditional renditions of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” sung acapella or instrumental and performed in 90 seconds or less. Auditions will be on a first come, first
sing basis. Performers with previous National Anthem experience may submit a video of their live performance in lieu of attending the audition, and video submissions are preferred for those who have previously performed the National Anthem live due to an anticipated large turnout for in-person auditions. Applications must be submitted by Sunday, March 1 at 5 pm. Though auditions are intended for individuals, groups can reach out to Garret Randle at grandle@astros.com with questions. For a second consecutive season, the Space Cowboys will open the season at Constellation Field when they take on the Round Rock Express on Friday, March 27.
FT. BEND ACCORDION CLUB
Meets on the 4th Sunday of every month from 2:pm - 4:pm at: CHRIST CHURCH SUGAR LAND (in
