Fulshear Living Monthly_June 2026_1-32

FULSHEAR LIVING monthly

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100YEARS CELEBRATING

BY SCOTT REESE WILLEY swilley@texaslocalmedia.com

Louise McGhee celebrated her 100th birthday on Wednesday at the Irene Stern Community Center in Fulshear surrounded by friends and family.

Her fellow seniors gifted her money and presents and the Fort Bend County Meals on Wheels program gave her a bag of goodies as well.

Fulshear Mayor Don McCoy attended the celebration and presented Louise with one of the “challenge coins” he had made when he became

mayor. The coins are stamped with “The Old 300,” a reference to the original 300 settlers in Fort Bend County, “Fulshear Texas” and “1824,” the date Fulshear was founded. McCoy said he had only 300 such coins made and awards them to people on special occasions.

He also presented Louis with a lapel pin in the shape of a heart, noting that “FulsHEAR Texas” has the word “Heart” in it.

McCoy’s younger brother, Fulshear Police Capt. Mike McCoy, also stopped by to congratulate Louise on

her special day.

Shonda Thomas, senior center manager, presented Louis with a bag of goodies on behalf of the center.

“Together we gather to celebrate an incredible milestone — 100 years of life, love, wisdom and memories,” she told those gathered around Louise.

“Reaching 100 years is more than a birthday: it is a journey filled with strength, perseverance, and countless moments that have touched so many lives. You have witnessed history, overcome challenges, and inspired generations through your kindness

and resilience. Your life is a reminder that every year brings lessons, blessing and cherished memories.”

Louis was born May 21, 1926, in West Virginia, the daughter of a coal miner.

She was born during the Roaring Twenties, three years before the Great Depression hit.

Calvin Coolidge was president at the time of her birth, bread cost about 9 cents a loaf and a new car could be purchased for about $400.

She and husband Acie had three children — Cornell, Rena and Myron.

Louise earned a bachelor’s degree in education from West Virginia State University and her master’s degree from Baylor.

She taught school for years but her biggest accomplishment was being a stay-a-home mom who raised three healthy, well-educated children, she said.

Louise has six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

At 100, Louise is still quite spry and has no need of a walker or cane. Her mental capacity is quite sharp as well, and she has a hearty laugh.

She said she has lived a normal life and has done nothing extraordinary to explain her longevity.

“I exercise when I want to exercise and I eat what I want to eat,” she explained.

She attributed her long life to her life-time of faith in the Lord Jesus.

Fort Bend County Libraries’ mobile WiFi hotspots are now available to hold

Fort Bend County Libraries has offered its patrons a limited number of mobile WiFi hotspots for years, and now, patrons can place them on hold — just like books.

For those without Internet access, mobile WiFi hotspots are an ideal solution, allowing WiFi-enabled devices, such as tablets, laptops, iPads, and smartphones, to connect to the Internet, essentially anywhere a cell signal is available. Up to 15 devices can be connected to a hotspot.

One mobile hotspot hold is allowed per library card, and patrons can search the library’s catalog for the phrase “mobile hotspot” to determine which branches have mobile hotspots available.

Once a patron who placed a hold receives notification that a mobile hotspot is ready, the patron has 10 days to pick it up from the service desk. Mobile hotspots will not be placed on the public hold shelves for pickups.

To check out or hold a mobile hotspot, the library user must be a resident of Fort Bend County with a full-service or homebound library card. The library user must also present a valid government-issued photo ID to retrieve the mobile hotspot.

The mobile hotspots are available for a seven-day checkout period; however, if kept beyond the lending term, their Internet access capability will be deactivated, preventing them from working while overdue.

Mobile hotspots can be checked out like any book by visiting any Fort Bend County Libraries branch, and they can be returned like books, too, in the book drop at the same library from which they were checked out or at the service desk of that library.

For more information on the hotspots, call any branch in the Fort Bend County library system, or the library system’s Communications Office at 281633-4734, or visit www.fortbendlibraries.gov.

Richmond recognizes Nivens

The City of Richmond spent time Monday recognizing Lamar Consolidated ISD Superintendent Dr. Roosevelt Nivens for being named as 2026 National Superintendent of the Year by the American Association of School Administrators (AASA), one of the highest honors in public education.

“Dr. Nivens has served as Superintendent of LCISD since 2021, leading one of the fastest-growing school districts in Texas and guiding continued academic growth, innovation and opportunities for students,” the city said in a social media post. “Beginning his career as a classroom teacher, Dr. Nivens has demonstrated a deep commitment to student achievement, leadership development and a strong belief that every student should feel seen, supported, and encouraged to be able to reach their full potential.

“The City of Richmond recognizes the im-

portant partnership between public education and local government and celebrates the positive impact Lamar CISD continues to have on the Richmond community. Congratulations Dr. Nivens and Thank YOU for your leadership, service and dedication to the students, families and communities served by Lamar Consolidated Independent School District!”

Also at the meeting, the city recognized Chris Jackson for his 10 years of service with the city’s water distribution team.

Jackson, the city’s utilities crew chief, was presented a 10-year plaque from Mayor Becky Haas. He was born and raised in Richmond and “approaches every job earnestly and with personal responsibility for a job well done. He takes great pride in keeping everything working the way it is supposed to be working for all residents and businesses.”

19TH ANNUAL CINCO DE MAYO BENEFIT RAISES MORE THAN FOR MEALS ON WHEELS PROGRAM

$132K

BY SCOTT REESE WILLEY swilley@texaslocalmedia.com

Paul and Crystal Kropf of Richmond know first-hand how important the Meals on Wheels program is to Fort Bend County senior citizens. They and members of their roofing company, Final Touch Roofing on Rosenberg, helped deliver hot, nutritious meals

to the elderly folk for several years.

“They appreciate the meals, they certainly do, and they tell us,” Crystal said.

The Kropfs were among 300 kind-hearted donors who attended La Cocina Mexican Restaurant’s 19th annual Cinco de Mayo celebration benefit last month.

More than $132,000 was raised for Meals on Wheels — a record amount, organizers

said.

“This year’s Cinco de Mayo fundraiser was everything we hope for when we bring this community together,” said Meals on Wheels program CEO Doug Simpson.

“ A record amount raised, a full house at La Cocina, and a beautiful evening outside — all of it in support of seniors in Fort Bend and Waller Counties who count on us every

single day. The need is real — 1 in 6 seniors in this country faces hunger, and for many of the neighbors we serve, our daily delivery is the only face-to-face contact they receive. Events like this one remind us why we do this work.”

Simpson said the Meals on Wheels program is grateful to HEB for presenting the benefit and La Cocina for hosting the event year after year — “and to every person who showed up and gave generously. Together, we delivered!”

Andres Novoa, owner of La Cocina, was equally thrilled with the turnout and the record money raised.

“Giving back to this community means everything to me, especially supporting Meals on Wheels and the seniors who depend on it,”

Novoa told The Herald. “La Cocina has been part of the Pecan Grove community for over 20 years, and this event is our way of paying it forward. It’s only possible because of the incredible generosity of our supporters, sponsors, volunteers, and loyal patrons. I’m truly grateful to everyone who comes together each year to make a difference.”

La Cocina Mexican Restaurant and Catering hosted its 19th Annual Cinco de Mayo Fundraiser on Saturday, May 2, at the restaurant’s Pecan

Grove location.

A line had formed outside long before the doors opened at 5:30 p.m.

The event featured a live auction, bucket raffles, “Pay What You Pull” for a Burberry handbag, and La Cocina’s signature Tex-Mex cuisine. Besides presenting sponsor HEB, other sponsors: Staff Force Personnel Services, OCuSoft, and The Newton Real

Estate Group.

Live auction winners were David and Dan Howard, Staff Force Personnel Services, Legacy Ford

Texan Hyundai, Patty Newton, E P Compean Funeral Directors, Roy Cordes, Jr., Tessie O’Guinn, Mike Johanson, Tori Johanson, Chip Bryant, Dan Cheek and Anthony Artino. What began as a small event in 2005, raising $16,000 after owner Andres Novoa learned about the growing need to support

homebound seniors, has grown into the organization’s most impactful annual fundraiser, raising more than $800,000 to date.

The event continues to help ensure local seniors have access to nutritious meals and essential support services.

“We are incredibly grateful to Andres and the entire La Cocina team for their unwavering commitment to our seniors,” Simpson said.. “For nearly two decades, this event has not only raised critical funds but also brought

our community together in a powerful way.

Andres’ generosity and leadership have made a lasting impact on the lives of the seniors we serve.”

Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels delivers daily meals to homebound seniors across Fort Bend and Waller counties, many of whom live alone and are unable to shop for or prepare food. In 2025, the organization served more than 369,000 meals and supported over 2,100 seniors through the home-delivered meal program, 6 senior centers, and transportation—at no cost to those served.

tax-deductible.

Founded in 1974, Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of seniors through nutritious meals and human connection. The agency provides nutritious meals, daily wellness checks, and social engagement to seniors in Fort Bend and Waller counties ensuring that no senior is left hungry or isolated.

Learn more or donate at www. fortbendseniors.org.

“Rising costs and reductions in government funding over the last 12 months have made community support more important than ever,” Novoa explained. “We’re proud to continue this tradition and invite everyone to come out, enjoy a great evening, and crush hunger for seniors in our community. Our seniors need us more than ever!”

Missed the benefit but still wish to help Meals on Wheels? Contact Novoa at 281-460-6479 or Meals on Wheels at 281-233-7049, or visit bit.ly/cinco2026. Donations made directly to Fort Bend Seniors are

And the winners are... Lamar CISD announces 2025-2026 district teachers and support staff members of the year

More than 700 educators, staff, and community members gathered at the Houston Marriott Sugar Land with one shared purpose: to celebrate the Lamar CISD individuals who make a difference in the lives of students and staff.

Lamar CISD honored the 2025–2026 Teachers and Support Staff Members of the Year, recognizing the staff members who lead with purpose, serve with heart, and create environments where students feel seen, supported, and empowered to succeed.

Across the district, student success is not driven by one role. It is built through the collective impact of educators, mentors, and staff who show up each day ready to support, encourage, and uplift students. From the classroom to behind-the- scenes roles, each honoree represents the culture that defines Lamar CISD.

One of the most powerful moments of the night came with historic recognition. For the first time in district history, one of the top honors was awarded to an elementary support staff member in custodial services.

Her work begins long before the first bell rings, preparing a safe and welcoming space for students, but her impact goes far beyond the campus walls. Through daily interactions, consistency, and care, she helps create a learning environment where students feel valued and supported—often in ways that go unseen, but never unfelt.

Her recognition serves as a reminder that those individuals helping shape the future of students are not always in the classroom — but their impact is just as meaningful.

“In Lamar CISD, our people are the change makers,” said Superintendent Dr. Roosevelt Nivens. “These individuals inspire and bring out the best in those around them and show us all what a daily commitment to student success looks like.”

Following a campus nomination and district selection process, the following individuals were named district winners for the 2025–2026 school year:

• Elementary Teacher of the Year: Crystal Mitchell, Lindsey Elementary School (Special Education Resource & Inclusion)

• Secondary Teacher of the Year: Andrew Murray, Banks Junior High School (CTE: Principles of Engineering)

• Elementary Support Staff Member of the Year: Lilian Gomez, Hutchison Elementary School (Custodial Services)

• Secondary Support Staff Member of the Year: Karinda Sowell, Reading Junior High School (Campus Testing Coordinator & Cheer Sponsor)

• Rookie of the Year: Emma Boyce, Tomas High School (Math)

After the ceremony, the honorees reflected on the recognition and the work that led them there.

“I honestly feel overwhelmed,” Murray said. “I was just grateful to be in the room, and to hear my name called was just beyond anything I really thought about or imagined.”

For Boyce, the moment marked a full-circle milestone early in her

career. “Less than a year ago, I was walking across the stage to get my degree, and now I’m helping students walk across the stage to get a high school diploma,” she said. “It’s amazing.”

Mitchell shared that her decision to join Lamar CISD was rooted in the district’s commitment to students. “We’re given the opportunity to empower kids, to empower the next generation, to think boldly and think innovatively,” she said. “I just wanted to be a part of it.”

From first-year teachers beginning their careers to experienced staff shaping campus culture, each honoree reflects a shared commit-

ment to excellence, compassion, and the belief that every student deserves the opportunity to succeed.

The event was made possible in part by key sponsors including Brazos Valley Schools Credit Union, Gulf Coast Educators Federal Credit Union, and Legacy Ford in Rosenberg, which participated in the event and helped recognize district honorees. Additional sponsors included Physicians Premier ER, Layne’s Chicken Fingers, Lawn Greetings – Fort Bend, Houston Methodist Sugar Land, Portillo’s, Relentless Ink, South Tejas Gems, A Tropical Haven, Texas Regional Bank, and Texas Roadhouse.

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Fort Bend County Master Gardeners grow in numbers

Fort Bend County Master Gardeners recently added 22 certified Master Gardeners to their ranks this spring.

Bud O'Shieles Community Center hosted the graduation celebration on May 13 welcoming new gardeners with diverse backgrounds, from an oil industry retiree, a recent graduate of the University of Houston, a registered nurse, a retired school teacher and a retired police officer. They come from throughout the county from Rosenberg to Missouri City and Needville to Weston Lakes. Their love of gardening brought them together for eight months of classroom instruction plus volunteer service. "The class as a whole contributed 2,424 hours," said Master Gardener Nancy Utech, who welcomed the more than 60 people to the ceremony.

"This journey was not always easy," continued Utech. "Some of you wondered if you could keep going; how you would fit in volunteer hours while working full-time or already juggling so many responsibilities, how you would pick up your kids from school, care for your families and still make time for this program.

"Like butterflies, you discovered your wings. Like bees, you worked tirelessly; sharing ideas, building connections and getting ready to pass on your knowledge to the Fort Bend community. You came into this program with seeds of possibility and through perseverance and hard work, those seeds are now blooming," said Utech.

The newly certified Master Gardeners, in alphabetically order, are: Judy Bodson, Judy Carley, Joyce Carter, Tina Cray, Alexandria Davis, Coach Jalon Debbs, Susan Fink, Alicia Hunter-Lynch, Debbie Jones, Anna Lee, Gus Lynch, Calina Moon-Kumula, Elissa Roesch, Martha Rushing, Esther Salazar, Julie Sawyer, Jackie Daniels-Sharkey, Kim Smith, Su Tang, Simon Tsai, Shekhar Vaidya and Nina Williams.

Judy Carley and Debbie Jones talked about the class' journey, what they learned and how they became a team. The program included a skit by the class and a Class Power Point Presentation.

Mentors to the class during their studies were Master Gardeners Peg d'Hemecourt, Shelly Beck and Ashok (Kumar) Vakamudi. D'Hemecourt introduced the graduating Master Gardeners to the audience and Beck and Vakamudi presented them with their certificates, aprons, name tags and T-shirts.

Beck also spoke about the accomplishments of the class during their road to certification.

"You are an impressive class. I love to see how you have all bonded as friends and how well you work together. I am excited to see the positive impact I know you will have on our organization and our community, and I look forward to working with each and every one of you. Congratulations and now, get growing!"

For information about Master Gardeners and how to become one, visit Who Are Master Gardeners? - Fort Bend County Master Gardeners.

YMCA of Greater Houston launches campaign to better serve Fort Bend County

Meaningful investment will focus on construction of a new Richmond facility and updated amenities for the community to enjoy

The YMCA of Greater Houston has launched its T.W. Davis Family YMCA Capital Campaign, a multiphase effort to strengthen and reimagine a longtime community resource serving Fort Bend County.

Phase 1 of the capital campaign will focus on the core building of the T.W. Davis Family YMCA, including construction of a more than 36,000-square-foot facility in Richmond.

“This campaign represents a meaningful investment in the future of this community,” said Stephen Ives, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Houston. “For decades, the T.W. Davis Family YMCA has been a place where people of all ages come together to build healthier lives and stronger connections. Through this capital campaign, we are positioning the nonprofit as an organization actively meeting the evolving community’s needs while ensuring access and impact for generations to come.”

Phase 1 represents an investment of approximately $16.6 million, inclusive of building and campaign-related costs. The campaign has already secured $11.96 million toward the project, including a $2.5 million contribution from Fort Bend County and $1 million from the City of Richmond.

Future phases will further expand amenities and services at the T.W. Davis Family YMCA.

Planned features include a modern lobby, a welcome area, a gymnasium, wellness and group exercise studios, a dedicated youth program space, locker rooms and outdoor gathering areas. These updates are designed to create a more welcoming, functional and

accessible environment for members and program participants, Ives explained.

The Richmond Y has been closed since March 2020 due in part to the Covid-19 pandemic but also due to its age.

Plans call for the present building to be remodeled and the 19-acre property updated with modern athletic and recreational fields and facilities, lobby and common areas, child watch and kids adventure room, multipurpose rooms, intergenerational facilities, gymnasium, as well as multipurpose group exercise studios, lockers, aquatics, administration offices, outdoor pavilion, outdoor trails and much more, said Jess Stuart, community outreach coordinator for the YMCA of Greater Houston.

The campaign's fundraising efforts are being led by a dedicated Capital Campaign Steering Committee, chaired by Dr. Jacquie Baly, an entrepreneur, professor, and philanthropist committed to improving community health and wellness resources, Ives added.

The committee also includes former Fort Bend County Judge Robert E. “Bob” Hebert, who brings decades of public service

experience to his role as honorary chair.

"Fort Bend County has grown significantly in the last 20 years, and this campaign will deliver an improved T.W. Davis Family YMCA that meets the needs of our expanding community,” said former Fort Bend County Judge Bob Hebert. “We are all working together to make good things happen in Fort Bend.”

Dr. Jacquie Baly, president of BalyProjects LLC. and former Sugar Land councilmember said some of the most meaningful milestones aren't personal — “they're shared with the community we call home.”

“The T.W. Davis Family YMCA Capital Campaign is about investing in families, in futures and in the strength of the Fort Bend Community,” she said.

The YMCA of Greater Houston will keep the community updated on the project's progress as the campaign moves forward. For more information and the latest news, please follow us on Facebook @ TWDavisFamilyYMCA. For more information about the YMCA of Greater Houston, please visit www. ymcahouston.org.

OTHER KEY UPGRADES INCLUDE:

• Expanded parking

• A wellness center on the second floor with walls of glass to let in natural light and provide visitors with a view of the outdoors

• Expanded lobby to include more seating, coffee bar and deli counter.

• Six pickleball courts

• Heated outdoor swimming pools

• Remodeled ball fields with turf instead of sod to keep maintenance fees down

• Two tennis courts

• Parking spaces for food trucks, a common request by visitors.

• A mini-pitch, which is a small soccer pitch surrounded by raised walls so that the ball rebounds and is always in constant play.

• Outdoor restrooms (In the past, visitors playing outside had to go inside to use the restroom)

• A separate free-standing building for day camps.

• Roll-in sporting equipment, such as softball backdrops, soccer goals, etc.

Epsilon Omega holds Founders Day meeting

The Epsilon Omega Chapter with Delta Kappa Gamma held their Women of Founder's Day meeting at Long Acres Ranch in Richmond and also introduced officers for 2026-27. Serving as officers are October Smith, president; Julianna White, first vice president; Kimberly Rychlik, second vice president; Trey Terrell, recording secretary; Denise Adams, communication; Linda Lambert and Kimberly Lybarger, treasurers; Doris Tomas, parliamentarian and past president.

DKG is an international society for key women educators. Their mission is to promote personal and professional growth of women educators and excellence in education. Epsilon Omega, Chapater 144, is from Area IV and represents Needville, Richmond and Rosenberg female educators.

Refreshments of chicken salad sandwiches, chips and cookies were provided by the hostesses for April: Holly Haynes, Jeannette Malasky, Barbara Baethe, Karen Mumphord,

Elaine Krause, Andrea Richard, Shannon Hood, Carolyn Fields, Catherine Clark, Pam Polk, Rosemary Anthony, Karin Gisi, Pam Hobson, Ida Jurkowski, and Jacqueline Schneider. The Thought of the Day was a quote by John Quincy Adams: “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader" and was read by Holly Haynes in honor of the Women of Founders Day and educators. The 12 female educators who established

DKG in May 1929 are Annie

Mamie Sue Bastian, Ruby Cole, Mabel Grizzard, Anna Hiss, Ray King, Sue King, Helen Koch, Ruby Lomax, Cora martin, Lalla Odom and Lela Lee Williams.

The 2026 Chapter Achievement Award was presented by Beverly Richard. This year’s recipient is Denise Adams who serves as the organization's communications officer. Raffle tickets were sold with proceeds benefitting the scholarship fund.

Prairie Perchers count 82 bird varieties at Seabourne Creek Nature Park

This year marked the 30th anniversary of The Great Texas Birding Classic and the Texas Master Naturalist - Coastal Prairie Chapter’s sixth year participating in the "Big Sit" tournament category.

The Tournament is held between April 15 and May 15, with teams across the state participating in bird counts in various tournament categories.

https://tpwd.texas.gov/events/great-texas-birding-classic

“Each year, our goal is the same: to "see" or "hear" as many birds as possible from within a predetermined 50-foot diameter circle,” said member Kerry Padilla.

“Each year, we set up our count circle between the wetland pond and the prairie restoration area at Seabourne Creek Nature Park. The location of the count circle inspired our team name, the ‘Seabourne Prairie Perchers.’ "

This year, members scheduled their count for

Friday, May 1, but when the weather forecasted thunderstorms and flooding, they decided to

reschedule for Saturday, May 2. This particular cold front ended up working in the group’s favor. Migrating birds were met with strong headwinds on Friday afternoon and overnight into Saturday, forcing them to land.

“When we began our count at 7 a.m. Saturday, we had a lot of bird activity in the park,”Padilla said. “Within an hour, we saw 50 species, and by 10:30 a.m., we reached 73. We finished our count at 8 p.m. with a total of 82 species, matching our team's previous record from 2021.

Participating in the Great Texas Birding Classic raises funds to support bird conservation and habitat projects across Texas, Padilla added.

“For our chapter members, it's an event we look forward to every year,” Padilla noted.

“We all enjoy spending time outdoors, and this event lets us do that together while supporting bird conservation. It's a win-win for the birds and for us.”

OakBend Medical Center demonstrates commitment to community with updated financial assistance policy

In alignment with its mission to provide exceptional, compassionate health care for our community, regardless of ability to pay, OakBend Medical Center has a Financial Assistance Policy for patients with a demonstrated inability to pay for services. The policy reaffirms OakBend's dedication to ensuring access to quality care for individuals facing financial constraints.

Recognizing the diverse economic landscape of our community, OakBend Medical Center has developed a Financial Assistance Policy to better serve patients who demonstrate an inability to cover medical expenses. This program, meticulously crafted with the community's well-being in mind, offers support to individuals and families based on specific criteria, including household income, the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines, and OakBend’s Financial Assistance Policy.

WE UNDERSTAND THAT HEALTHCARE SHOULD BE ACCESSIBLE TO EVERYONE, REGARDLESS OF FINANCIAL CIRCUMSTANCES.”

—

JOE FREUDENBERGER, CEO, AT OAKBEND MEDICAL CENTER

"We understand that healthcare should be accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances," stated Joe Freudenberger, CEO, at OakBend Medical Center. "Our Financial Assistance Policy reflects our ongoing commitment to prioritize patient care and alleviate financial burdens for those in need."

OakBend Medical Center encourages individuals seeking information related to the Financial Assistance Policy to reach out to the dedicated

team in OakBend’s Patient Access Department. Patients and their families can connect with a knowledgeable representative by calling 281-6334074.

The institution's steadfast dedication to providing comprehensive healthcare services underscores its role as a cornerstone of the community. Through initiatives such as the Financial Assistance Policy, OakBend Medical Center remains steadfast in its mission to serve with compassion

and excellence.

OakBend Medical Center’s mission is to provide exceptional, compassionate health care for our community, regardless of ability to pay. As the last remaining independent, nonprofit hospital in the Greater Houston area, OakBend is committed to excellence and meeting the needs of all patients. The hospital provides inpatient and outpatient surgical specialties, a catheterization lab, emergency care, wound care, imaging, laboratory, cardiopulmonary, and nutritional education. OakBend also stands apart with unique programs and facilities, including the county’s only No-Wait Hospital Emergency Room, a hospital-based skilled nursing facility, and a permanent hospital-based air ambulance.

For more information about OakBend Medical Center and its services, visit https://oakbendmedcenter. org/.

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AWARDS FOUNDATION RAISES MORE THAN $273,000 AT

LEAF’s annual benefit raised more than $273,000 for LCISD classrooms. Guests embraced the event’s signature Hawaiian theme with island-inspired attire, tropical décor, and live entertainment from luau dancers that created a festive atmosphere throughout the evening.

2026

‘SurfS

Despite rainy weather, the Lamar Educational Awards Foundation (LEAF) raised more than $273,000 during its annual “Surfs Up” fundraiser held at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds. Proceeds from the event will directly support classroom grants and student scholarships across Lamar CISD.

The annual fundraiser welcomed approximately 2,400 attendees, including Lamar CISD staff, district partners, community members, and supporters for an evening dedicated to investing in students and educators across the district.

Guests embraced the event’s signature Hawaiian theme with island-inspired attire, tropical décor, and live entertainment from luau dancers that created a festive atmosphere throughout the evening.

The evening’s program, led by emcee Commissioner Dexter McCoy of Precinct 4, featured auction host Don McCoy, Mayor of Fulshear, alongside auctioneer Clay Kaminski, a local insurance entrepreneur who guided one of the event’s most anticipated traditions.

A highlight of the evening, the Surfs Up cake auction raised more than $105,000 alone. The auction featured 35 custom cakes created by campuses, departments, and community partners, showcasing creativity and community support across Lamar CISD.

The highest bid of the night reached $10,500 for a cake created by the Banks Junior High School team and baked by Cheryl Koteras of Human Resources. The winning cake, purchased jointly by the Green Track campuses and First Financial Bank, featured layered flavors including a dense brownie base, marshmallow, dulce de leche, praline pecans, and a chocolate ganache finish.

“We are always inspired by the way our community comes together for this event,” Kameela Lewis, Executive Director of LEAF, said. “‘Surfs Up’ reflects the

collaboration, creativity, and generosity that continue to support students and staff across Lamar CISD.”

Guests also enjoyed live entertainment from The Emotions, whose performance kept the celebration going throughout the evening.

The success of the event was made possible through the continued support of sponsors and community partners. This year’s presenting sponsors included PBK and RockIT Consulting, along with additional supporters from across the community who continue investing in opportunities for Lamar CISD students.

“Surfs Up brings people together in support of students and staff across Lamar CISD,” Lorin Pargoud, Managing Senior Principal at PBK and Vice President of LEAF, said. “It’s exciting to see campuses, community partners, and employees rally around a shared purpose that directly benefits classrooms and scholarship opportunities.” Lorin Pargoud, Managing Senior Principal at PBK and Vice President of LEAF, said.

The event remains a powerful reminder of what can happen when a community shows up for its schools.

With strong support year after year, LEAF continues its mission of enriching education and creating opportunities that make a lasting impact. Visit https://www. lamareducationalaf.com/ to learn more about LEAF and how to get involved.

WCJC geology surveys wild west

By COLBY PRIMEAUX Special to the Herald

Wharton County Junior College geology professor Peter Anderson has spent the spring semester not only showing his students the great outdoors, but helping them understand it.

“The goal is to make more geologists,” Anderson said. “We want to show geology isn’t as unapproachable as it seems. This can be a career.”

The semester began with a dozen WCJC Pioneers exploring the Old West, with Anderson leading students in January, along with a contingent of students from the University of Houston and the University of Kansas, to Elephant Butte Lake State Park in New Mexico to study the migration of the Rio Grande River.

Students collected core samples to gather sediment and rocks for geochemical analysis and used drones to generate 3D photomosaics of the topography, enabling accurate and detailed remote research in the future.

The expedition included a visit to the Kilbourne Hole, a three-kilometer wide extinct volcano system which interacted with water between 20,000 to 80,000 years ago, resulting in an explosion that created a collapse structure, or caldera, bringing pieces of the Earth’s interior to the surface.

In addition to scientific research, students learned how to work alongside people they did not know as well as resilience in the cold and rugged terrain of New Mexico, Anderson said.

Some students were able to adapt to the expedition’s conditions better than others.

“We’ve had students sign up thinking this would be just a hiking trip, not realizing they’d have to learn to do science,” Anderson said. “We’ve had others, even

Helping Hands to host annual Feast on Fashion fundraiser

Rosenberg Richmond Helping Hands will host its third annual Feast on Fashion on June 26 at Safari Texas Ranch.

The luncheon and fashion show will begin at 11 a.m.

Runway sponsors are Classic Chevrolet-Sugar Land and Consolidated Home Health.

Bring friends and family and enjoy fashion from local boutiques, shopping, raffles, silent auction and much more.

though we told them what to pack, show up with just a sleeping bag and a cheap, thin tent.”

Students participating included Santos Osuna, Damon Burnes, Canaan Allen, Cameron Ero-Hughes, Gabriel Heimann, Rafael Herrera, Havel Hernandez, Makynzie Flores, Dakota Hall, Jacob Molina and Esmerelda Garcia along with geology professors Anderson and Kornelia Oostingh.

This expedition was just the beginning to the Pioneers’ adventures this year.

Anderson, who has taught at WCJC since 2018, led 21 students on a six-day trip to Longhorn Caverns State Park, Big Bend National Park and Enchanted Rock State Natural Area March 7-12 over spring break.

The trip was a joint venture by the WCJC geology department and Anderson’s student organization, the Adventure Sports and Outdoor Club.

“The shared goals were learning through experience,” Anderson said, “both in a scientific sense about the geology, paleontology, stellar processes, cave processes and river processes, but also applicable skills around camping, hiking and outdoor pursuits across Texas.”

There may still be the possibility of a coastal camping trip in Galveston in the works, as well as several summer activities.

The department, which had approximately 200 enrollees in geology courses this year, relies heavily on grants to make the larger trips possible.

The New Mexico trip was made possible by a $1 million National Science Foundation grant, for which 2026 is the third of four years. Anderson’s hope is the NSF grant will be renewed, leading to more partnerships with U of H, and eventually, WCJC leading their own expeditions with other community colleges.

It's time to grab your friends and enjoy a stylish midday break of fashion, fun, and philanthropy at Safari Texas in the beautiful Magnolia Ballroom. Feast on Fashion features the latest looks and from beloved area boutiques, all modeled in a lively runway show you won’t want to miss.Guests will enjoy a delicious luncheon, beverage service, a silent auction, a raffle, and our featured boutique pop-up shopping – before and after the fashion show—with fabulous finds for women, men and teens. There truly is something for everyone, and no one goes home empty-handed! Most importantly, your attendance helps make a difference. All proceeds support the programs and daily operations of Rosenberg-Richmond Helping Hands, furthering our vision that no child goes to bed hungry and ensuring local families have access to food, clothing, and hope when they need it most.

To reserve seats, become a sponsor or for inquiries regarding the event or making a donation, contact Becky Watts at Becky@ roserichhelpinghands.org | 713.542.0706. Learn more about our mission at www.roserichhelpinghands.org.

WCJC history instructor to attend teaching institute

Wharton County Junior College Instructor of History Paul Villa will spend this summer in Gettysburg, Penn., as a member of the American Battlefield Trust Summer Teaching Institute. Villa earned a scholarship to attend this year’s institute, which focuses on the Civil War, the American War for Independence and the War of 1812.

“The summer teacher institutes are designed to provide educators with the knowledge and experience to bring the events of these conflicts to life in the classroom,” Villa said. “I’m pretty excited about this opportunity.”

Villa, who retired from the Reno Police Department in Nevada, has taught history at WCJC since 2023.

The institute is open to educators across the nation. This year’s group will meet from July 9 to July 12 and attend symposia and tours related to three major American conflicts.

“Since I will be meeting with educators from all over the country, it is always profitable to share teaching approaches and experiences, especially as it relates to topics that are of particular interest to the instructor,” Villa said. “Finding new ways to ignite an interest in my students about our national history and heritage is something I am always searching for.”

DRAWS HUNDREDS TO ROSENBERG Butterfly Celebration

More than 400 people joined Fort Bend County Master Gardeners last month to participate in the 2026 Butterfly Celebration.

Perfect, cool weather in the Demonstration Gardens on Band Road in Rosenberg followed a very rainy Friday. "It was a perfect day for the Master Gardeners to show the community many forms of gardening," said Shelly Beck, Butterfly Celebration co-chair. "Master Gardeners answered questions and offered suggestions for their visitors."

"Children loved learning about pollinators, chasing giant bubbles, and having their faces painted," said Beck. "The Master Gardener Youth Activities team helped children make coffee filter flowers and butterfly rings – all while teaching about butterflies and bees and their importance in our world."

"The Scavenger Hunt had two different searches – one for readers and one for non-readers," said Beck. The children had fun and really liked the prizes at the end of the hunt.

A new activity for children was chalk-coloring butterfly outlines on the sidewalk. "We had some great little artists!," Beck said.

"Dividing Lilies and educating visitors on true lilies versus all other lilies was a lot of fun," she added. Using lilies, Master Gardeners demonstrated how to increase plants in a garden or share their plants with others via division.

Master Gardeners provided information on Rainwater Harvesting and DIY Drip Irrigation. The presentation concluded with a drawing for a Rain Barrel. The lucky winner was Vic Moena.

Beekeepers brought hives for visitors to see how the bees work and to smell the honey. Several people took advantage of the big bee statue photo op, too.

Indoors, Master Gardeners were showing caterpillars, chrysalises, and emerging butterflies. There were several other insects and butterflies on display in resin and on boards. EarthKind Landscaping was also a big topic.

Master Gardeners put together seed packets to give to visitors who could select their preferred variety, and were also given a free packet of zinnia seeds. Master Gardener Sue Yoder said the community enjoyed the opportunity to take home free seed packets and free "pass-along plants" grown and donated by the Master Gardener group. At the pass-along plants booth, visitors were able to select up to three of the available plants for free.

A new addition to the Demonstra-

tion Gardens is the Tree Trail. All the trees planted were selected because they will do well growing in Fort Bend County. Stacey Earley, Tree Team chair, said "Tree Bingo was a runaway hit. We gave away six trees, and countless stickers for Bingo."

While there weren't formal tours of the Tree Trail, Master Gardener Larry Fleming spent the morning on the trail answering questions and sharing information about trees so that raffle winners could pick the right tree to take home.

Native milkweed is so important to Monarchs and several Master Gardeners grew milkweed for the Butterfly Celebration. "Master Gardeners shared information on why we should grow native milkweed and gave each family a native milkweed to take home," said Beck. Milkweed was also available for purchase. Master Gardener Nancy Schoepf, who co-chaired the milkweed project with Master Gardener Mary Parkhouse,

said they gave away or sold approximately 450 milkweed plants to the public. "The public was truly excited to go home with both purchased and free milkweed," said Schoepf. "I even sent two milkweed caterpillars home with the plants."

Monarch Ambassadors carried 5-foot kites or wore Monarch butterfly costumes to add a special touch to the event.

Beck said, "Master Gardeners, as always, were friendly and well-prepared to answer questions and explain in-depth facts about butterflies and other pollinators, as well as the plants that attract them. While our Butterfly Garden and Backyard Pollinator Gardens focused entirely on pollinators, all the gardens include

pollinator plants. Many visitors were surprised to learn our Demonstration Gardens are open to the public seven days a week during daylight hours. Wednesday mornings are workdays in the demonstrations gardens for MGs who are always willing to talk and share information with visitors."

The gardens are located on four acres at 1402 Band Road in Rosenberg, starting behind the Bud O'Shieles Community Center building. They're right next to the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds.

The celebration ended with the release of newly hatched butterflies. One special release was a butterfly sitting on a six-year-old’s finger before heading off to the Butterfly Garden.

New construction, electrical programs coming to TSTC-Rosenberg

Texas State Technical College will introduce Building Construction and Electrical Construction programs this fall at its Fort Bend County campus to help meet growing workforce demands in the region.

The Building Construction program will offer a Building Construction - Craftsman certificate of completion and the Electrical Construction program will offer an Electrical Construction certificate of completion.

“The landscape of Fort Bend County is not just a collection of buildings; it is a living blueprint of the future,” said Bryan Bowling, provost at TSTC’s Fort Bend County campus. “Our mission is to

‘Place More Texans in Great Paying Jobs,’ and we fulfill that promise by re-

sponding when industry speaks.”

Shawn McNeil, program team lead of both programs, said students can take advantage of great opportunities.

“Students in the Building Construction program will gain proficiency in OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) 30-hour training, safety standards, plan reading, estimating, tool operation, project management, and training on forklift, skid steer, and scissor kit operation,” he said.

“Students in the Electrical Construction program will gain hands-on experience in residential, commercial, and industrial wiring, blueprint reading, electrical calculations, and theory,” he said.

Jim Janek, an instructor in the Building Construction program, said

it is an exciting time to educate students at TSTC.

“I bring hands-on experience in construction, from design of jobs to management of a construction company,” he said. “This makes me an effective trainer for the next generation of workers. The key is translating my industry experience into teachable moments, allowing students to learn by doing.”

Through a partnership with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), students who complete the Electrical Construction

program can have the 4,000-hour work requirement waived for the residential wireman license, providing a faster pathway to licensure and career entry.

Keysha Fonteneaux, an instructor in the Electrical Construction program, said her professional experience offers a strong background in the electrical trade.

“My experience spans both handson fieldwork and code compliance, including electrical installation, troubleshooting, and ensuring work is performed safely and in accordance

with quality standards,” she said. “My goal is to foster an engaging learning environment that mirrors workplace expectations and prepares students to enter the workforce with confidence

and professionalism.”

Registration for the summer and fall semesters is now underway at TSTC. For more information, visit TSTC.edu.

Libraries’ annual summer reading challenge underway

Among the array of pressing topics analyzed in Fort Bend households, concerns about literacy rates and general reading skills are at the forefront of more current daily discussions.

According to the organizations Literacy Texas and the National Center for Education Statistics, Texas has the fourth-lowest literacy rate at 81%, with 19.0% of adults lacking basic prose literacy skills. The state also ranks fourth lowest in the number of libraries, with 3.2 per 100,000 residents.

Evidenced by its free collection of supportive programs and services, reading and literacy support has always been prioritized at Fort Bend County Libraries.

Thus the need for the library system’s annual Summer Reading Challenge is in the spotlight.

“Unearth a Story” is the theme for the 2026 Summer Reading Challenge, which is divided into categories: youth, middle school, and young adult/adult, with prizes varying with each group. There is no cost to register online or in person at any of the libraries in the system.

Online registration for the 2026 Summer Reading Challenge begins on Monday, May 25, and continues through August.

That’s right, you can start the

challenge anytime during the summer months!

The challenge runs from June 1 through August 31. To complete the challenge, participants must log their summer reading hours or the books they read completely at any of the 11 county libraries or online at fortbend.beanstack.org.

In the February 2026 report, “Child Reading Literacy and the Role of Public Libraries: A Review of Secondary Sources,” the Institute of Museum and Library Services found, among other key points, that “[p]ublic libraries play an important and multifaceted role in the literacy ecosystem […] acting as resource hubs that offer reading literacy materials for children and caregivers, as direct service providers of programs like summer reading, and as conveners of other community organizations devoted to improving children’s reading literacy.”

Fort Bend County Libraries has been infusing the local literacy ecosystem for decades. Just last month, the system was recognized and honored by Fort Bend County Judge Daniel Wong, who emphasized that Fort Bend County Libraries’ “mission to bring people, information, and ideas together remains the cornerstone of our progress, fostering a diverse community where minds are

expanded, and lives are enriched.”

Beyond serving as a reference and independent learning center, Fort Bend County Libraries also functions as an educational introduction for preschool-aged children by continuously enhancing preschool programs, book collections, audiovisual materials, educational toys, and story kits. Notably, initiatives such as the Summer Reading Challenge also significantly aid Fort Bend County Libraries’ efforts to encourage and foster literacy development and growth.

The 2026 Summer Reading Challenge is open to everyone, regardless of their county of residence, making it one of the easiest and most beneficial ways to add free and wholesome recreation to summertime enjoyment. Coinciding with the three-month-long reading challenge are complementary library activities for youth and young adults taking place throughout the library system. These activities are listed online at www.fortbendlibraries.gov in the events calendar.

YOUTH

The Youth Summer Reading Challenge | Ages: Newborn-grade 5 Younger children (newborn to grade 5) are encouraged to read or listen to as many books as they can, and they will earn rewards based on the total number of books they read or have read to them. For the first five books read, the child will receive a bookmark. The rewards

continue with a color-on door hanger for 10 books, a color-on tote bag for 15 books, and a reading trophy for the first 20 books read. For every 20 books read, the participant’s name will also be written on a cut-out shape of a dinosaur to be displayed in that branch library. Drawings for puppets will take place weekly. The names of readers who complete the goal of reading 20 books or more will be entered into a drawing for gift cards donated by the Friends of the Library organizations. One winner from each library location will be selected in a drawing that will take place in early September.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

The Middle School Summer Reading Challenge | Grades 6 - 8 Exciting free activities are planned, while area readers in grades 6-8 participate in the Middle School Summer Reading Challenge by logging online the time they spend reading. Upon completion of 10 hours (600 minutes) of reading, readers will receive a mystery prize. After completing 20 hours (1200 minutes) of reading, they will receive a trophy. The names of participants who complete 20 or more hours of reading will be entered into a drawing for a $25-gift card (donated by the Friends of the Library) that will be awarded to one lucky reader at each branch library, in a drawing that will take place in early September.

TEEN/ADULT

The Teen/Adult Summer Reading Challenge | High School & Adults Young adult and adult participants will also log their reading time, aiming for 1,000 minutes to complete the challenge. The completion prize, while supplies last, is a “Libraries are Life” notepad, which can be picked up at any Fort Bend County library. In addition, the names of participants who log at least 1,000 minutes of reading time will be entered into a drawing for a Libraries are Life Note Organizer that will be awarded to one reader at each branch library in a drawing that will take place at the end of August.

An ultimate grand prize will be awarded to one reader from throughout the library system. Participants in the Teen/Adult Summer Reading Challenge who complete the program by logging 1,000 minutes of reading time will be entered into a drawing for a 32GB Fire HD 8 tablet, which will be awarded to one winner in the library system at the end of August.

HOW TO REGISTER

Register at any Fort Bend County library or online at www.fortbendli-

braries.gov by clicking on the “SRC Sign-Up” image, which will become available on May 25. Once the online registration form is completed, readers will have a personal online page to record their books and reading time.

Participants may also register and log their books and reading time by downloading the free Beanstack Tracker app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Reading rewards can be redeemed beginning Monday, June 1.

The last day to pick up awards is August 31. All prizes can be picked up at the Adult Reference Desk at any Fort Bend County Libraries branch.

The Summer Reading Challenge is sponsored by Fort Bend County Libraries, the Friends of the Library organizations that support the county library system, and by the Collaborative Summer Library Program, a consortium of states working together to provide high-quality children’s summer-reading program materials for public libraries.

For more information, call the branch library nearest you or the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734).

5 Miles My Way

In-person sign-up day for 5 Miles My Way from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 27, at 727 Pitts Road in Richmond. Pecan Grove Volunteer Fire Department hosts its annual fundraiser on Independence Day each year, starting at the Pecan Grove clubhouse on Plantation Drive.

Participants may bike, skateboard, roller blade, skates or walk the route. Proceeds benefit the fire department.

Popular Richmond retreat open day and night

BY DAVID STAYSHICH Special to The Herald

On Main Street in Richmond, between Fifth and Sixth Street ,is a beautiful garden that contains the largest oak tree in Fort Bend County. It is the First Baptist Church Prayer Garden, which is open to anyone day and night. While the property is owned and maintained by the church, visitors are welcome.

About 20 years ago, a church

member donated funds to landscape the property under the tree. Since then, it has been carefully maintained by a dedicated crew of church members. In addition to the awesome oak tree are pathways around the garden, a life-sized cross, a prayer labyrinth, a church memorial of past members and pastors, and several benches.

While many people are not aware of the Prayer Garden others come here regularly — some on a daily ba-

sis — to pray, to meditate and to enjoy the quiet. It is also a popular setting for wedding, graduation, family and miscellaneous photo opportunities.

In addition, each year, First Baptist Church conducts an Easter sunrise service in the Prayer Garden.

The church considers the prayer garden a gift from God to be shared with the city of Richmond. Everyone who visits the garden is encouraged to do so in a quiet, respectful manner.

When life hands you lemons, open a lemonade stand

Haygood Elementary School second-grader Luis Chavez, 8, spent one day last month selling lemonade out of his stand in front of SI Environmental in Rosenberg. He was among 18

young entrepreneurs who took part in national Lemonade Day in central Fort Bend County.

Lemonade Day teaches the fundamentals of entrepreneurship, including business skills, financial literacy, teamwork, social and emotional learning, goal setting, and responsibility. With the guidance of mentors, participants learn how to plan, launch, and operate their own lemonade stand businesses. Along the way, they gain valuable lessons in setting goals, creating a plan, and seeing it through to achieve success. After repaying their initial investment, participants keep their profits and are encouraged to spend some, save some, and give some.

The Central Fort Bend Chamber

of Commerce hosts the event each spring in the Rosenberg, Richmond, Fulshear, and Needville communities.

This year’s event is presented by Si Environmental, with support from dedicated sponsors and community partners who are committed to empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs including Frost Bank, Brazos Valley Schools Credit Union, NewFirst National Bank and Texas Regional Bank.

Luis said Saturday’s event was the first time he opened a lemonade stand, and he looked forward to doing brisk business.

If the heavy traffic on Reading Road in front of SI Environmental was any indication, Luis should do well in his first business venture.