NEW AND EXPECTANT MOMS INVITED TO COMMUNITY BABY SHOWER,AUG. 2

Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Sugar Land invites new and expectant moms – along with their partners and babies – to the annual Community Baby Shower from 10 a.m.-2 p.m on Thursday, Aug. 2, in the Brazos Pavilion Conference Center on the Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital campus.

The event will feature demonstrations on how to safely use baby carriers, presentations on the importance of safe sleeping practices, and a Sugar Land police officer will speak about car seat safety. In addition, lactation consultants and counselors from the Childbirth Center will be available to talk one-on-one with moms and provide guidance and support.

“This is a great opportunity for new moms to speak directly with someone who understands their concerns,” said Donna Timmer, lactation consultant. “There will be great discussions and information provided at this event; it’s been a very beneficial experience for our attendees in previous years.”

Timmer says attendees are welcome to stop by any time during the shower. Demonstrations will be repeated several times throughout the event, and light refreshments will be provided. Attendees can also participate in several drawings.

“This is a fun event, but it’s also a great outreach program,” Timmer said. “Our goal is to celebrate new and expectant moms, as well as help them learn techniques they need to know in order to care for their newborns. Sometimes a mom gets home from the hospital and realizes that she needs additional support or information, and we’re here to help.”

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital hosts its annual Community Baby Shower in recognition of World Breastfeeding Week. Visit events.houstonmethodist.org/babyshower-slfor more information.

Visit houstonmethodist.org/childbirth-slfor more information about Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Sugar Land, or call 281-274-7080. Visit the Facebook page at fb.com/methodistsugarland for the latest news, events and information.

___________________________________________________________________________________

AUDITIONS ONGOING FOR THE FORT BEND BOYS CHOIR “BOY … CAN THEY SING!”

If a boy has a talent and desire to sing, he should definitely audition for the Fort Bend Boys Choir of Texas for its 37th concert season! Many opportunities exist for young boys with an unchanged voice to audition for this nonprofit boychoir organization. They need to be at least eight years of age or going into the third grade.

The Fort Bend Boys Choir offers a quality music education for young boys and currently is holding auditions by special appointment. Parents are encouraged to fill out an online audition form on the website at fbbctx.org. Boys who pass the audition start the 2018 fall season in late August, with weekly rehearsals on Thursday evenings from 6:30-7:45 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Missouri City, 3900 Lexington Blvd.

Scholarships and payment plans are available as well as carpool assistance for choir families. Call the Fort Bend Boys Choir office at 281-240-3800 for additional details about the organization and to make a special audition appointment. For boys ages six and seven, inquire about the choir’s Music Magic program starting at the end of September.

___________________________________________________________________________________

YOGA AND MEDITATION DEMONSTRATION AT SUGAR LAND BRANCHLIBRARY, AUG. 4

Fort Bend County Libraries’ Sugar Land Branch Library will present a special introductory program, “Stress Relief & Relaxation through Sahaja Yoga Meditation,” on Saturday, August 4, from 10:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m., in the Meeting Room of the library, located at 550 Eldridge.

Sahaja yoga meditation instructor Lata Nair will provide an overview of Sahaja yoga meditation and its mental, physical, and emotional health benefits. Learn how to quickly relieve anxieties, tensions, stresses, and everyday worries by tuning into one’s inner being and bringing balance and peace to one’s life with guided meditation.

Nair will demonstrate the meditation technique, and those attending the program will have an opportunity to participate.

Refreshments are provided courtesy of the Friends of the Sugar Land Branch Library. The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call 281-238-2140

___________________________________________________________________________________

LAKE OLYMPIA GARDEN CLUB

The Lake Olympia Garden Club meets at 9 a.m. the third Friday of the month from September through April at Lake Olympia Club House.

Members donate to a number of worthwhile organizations throughout the year, and are also asked to bring nonperishable items to each meeting for the East Fort Bend food pantry. Membership includes not only Lake Olympia but the surrounding area. Visitors and new members are always welcome.

For more information, contact Jo Ann Keene at [email protected] or 281-438-2174.

___________________________________________________________________________________

SIENNA INVITES PUBLIC TO SHRED PAPERS, DISCARD ELECTRONICS
AUG. 4

Sienna Plantation is hosting “Shreducation,” an event where the public can shred documents and recycle electronic devices, beginning at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 4, at the community’s new Thornton Middle School, 1909 Waters Lake Boulevard. During the free event, people can purge unneeded papers, old cell phones, hard drives and more. Two ProShred trucks will be on-site with a 4.5-ton capacity as well as a Technocycle electronics recycling truck. Also on hand will be DJ Rico, complimentary popcorn and watermelon, Southern Ice Cream, Bahama Buck’s shaved ice, The Melt grilled cheese truck, Loam Agrinomics and a Captain Planet dunk tank. The event will continue until 3 p.m. or until the trucks are full. Learn more at siennaplantation.com.

___________________________________________________________________________________

LEARN JOB-SEARCH SURVIVAL TIPS AT GEORGE MEMORIAL LIBRARY, AUG. 6

Fort Bend County Libraries’ George Memorial Library will present a free, two-part series of “Job-Search Survival Tips,” beginning on Monday, Aug. 6, from 5:30-8:30 p.m., in the Meeting Room of the library, located at 1001 Golfview in Richmond. The series will continue on Thursday, Aug. 9, at the same place and time.

The two-part series is designed to help all job-hunters. The tips that are presented can help any applicant plan a more efficient job hunt and make a more favorable impression. By developing an organized plan of action, the applicant is able to experience a more efficient job hunt with an increased chance of success.

The sessions are free and open to the public. Registration is not required, and late arrivals are welcome. For more details call 281-342-4455.

___________________________________________________________________________________

AHFC JUNIOR HURRICANES (JHSL) REGISTRATION FOR FALL NOW OPEN

The Junior Hurricanes Soccer League (JHSL) is led by professional United States Soccer Federation (USSF) licensed staff and is designed for boys and girls who want to play and have fun in a safe and developmentally appropriate environment. The JHSL program is being offered at multiple locations and in conjunction with CFSA at the Schiel Road Complex. The season begins in September. AHFC is now partnering with New Territory to offer New Territory Thursday Night Academy, a five-week skills program. Email questions to [email protected], visit albionhurricanes.orgor call 713-939-7473 for more information.

___________________________________________________________________________________

GET SEVERE-WEATHER PREPAREDNESS TIPS AT SUGAR LAND BRANCHLIBRARY, AUG. 11

Get helpful information and tips at Fort Bend County Libraries’ Sugar Land Branch Library on Saturday, August 11 in the Meeting Room of the library, located at 550 Eldridge Rd.

Mansi Mehta, project coordinator with Texans Recovering Together, will present a two-part program “Hurricane Preparedness and Stress Management.” From 10:30-11:15 a.m., Mehta will present “Hurricane-Preparedness Tips” to keep in mind before, during, and after a storm, for individuals who decide to evacuate and for those who choose to remain at home. Learn how to prepare your home and family for a hurricane or other severe weather event. Get tips that will help you minimize damage to your home and property, and that will maximize the personal safety of your family during and after a storm.

Mehta will provide lists of items to pack for evacuation and of supplies to have on hand if remaining at home. Find out what tasks can be completed before a storm hits, such as identifying an evacuation route or determining methods of communication with family and friends.

From 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m, Mehta will present “Stress-Management Tips and Strategies.” Learn how stress affects people differently, including the physical and mental effects. Discover how specific personalized strategies – such as goal-setting, self-care, and breathing techniques – can help one manage stress more effectively. This interactive presentation allows for audience participation, sharing, discussion, and reflection.

Texans Recovering Together is a crisis-counseling program made possible by a federal grant given to the Region 4 Education Service Center.

Those attending this workshop may also wish to participate in the “Hurricane Harvey Artistic Expression” workshop at the library from 1:30-4:30 p.m. This family arts-and-craft activity is designed to provide an artistic outlet for survivors of Hurricane Harvey to express themselves through various mediums, such as painting, drawing, writing, collage-making, and much more. The artistic pieces created in this workshop may be submitted to become part of a special event marking the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Harvey. A project of Fort Bend Recovers… with Creativity, “The Harvey Exper­ience – One Year Later” anniversary event will take place on Aug. 25 at Constellation Field in Sugar Land.

Refreshments and materials for this workshop were made possible by the Friends of the Sugar Land Branch Library. The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call 281-238-2140.

___________________________________________________________________________________

FBJSL WELCOMING NEW MEMBERS FOR 2018-2019

The Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) has begun its membership drive for the 2018-2019 League year. Provisional membership is available to women ages 21 to 50 years. Recruitment efforts are in full force and there is still time to join. FBJSL is hosting events for prospective members to learn more about the organization. Informational meetings will be held on Aug. 9 at 9:30 a.m. at Bean Here Coffee in Missouri City.

Visit fbjsl.orgfor additional information.

FBJSL members will have the opportunity to provide direct service to the following agencies: Child Advocates of Fort Bend, Lunches of Love, Houston Museum of Natural Science–Sugar Land, GiGi’s Playhouse, Reining Strength and Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center. Members also may choose to serve on the Sugar Plum Market committee or as an advisor for the Fort Bend Teen Service League (FBTSL), a mentoring project of FBJSL.

FBJSL is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, to developing the potential of women and to improving the Fort Bend County community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable as well as providing an atmosphere of friendliness, goodwill and camaraderie for all members. For additional information about joining, email [email protected].

The “Then and Now” program will feature Memoirs of Teaching with Rita Drabek (left) and Mary Willis.

__________________________________________________________________________________

SUGAR LAND HERITAGE FOUNDATION FRIENDS BACK TO SCHOOL SOCIAL,AUG. 9

The Sugar Land Heritage Foundation (SLHF) Friends will host a member event on Aug. 9 from 6-8 p.m. at the Sugar Land Heritage Museum, 198 Kempner St. SLHF Friends will meet for a “Back to School Social: Then and Now” program featuring engaging talks that include: Lakeview 100 years with Chuck Kelly; Company Town Years and Going Forward with Dr. Wayne Emerson; Memoirs of Teaching with Rita Drabek and Mary Willis; and What’s New at Fort Bend ISD with Grayle James, FBISD Trustee

“We are very excited to host our second Social in the new Museum space. Becoming a Heritage Friend is sharing history of the past and making new history together, connecting then and now.” said Daphne Ring, Heritage Friends Chair.

Heritage Friends is an auxiliary committee within SLHF for anyone 21 and older. For a minimal donation, friends can support the foundation operations and museum expansion. This group’s main purpose is to bring together SLHF advocates, learn more about Sugar Land’s rich history and promote the museum. One hundred percent of annual dues go to support the SLHF.

The Heritage Friends socials are free for members; guests are welcome with a $20 donation. Heritage Friends memberships are available for $55 per person and $100 for any two new members. The membership can be paid online or at the socials and is tax-deductible. The next event will be on Dec. 13 and will feature a discussion about the History of the Char House Cross and a musical performance.

___________________________________________________________________________________

GEORGE MEMORIAL LIBRARY’S “ART & CULTURE” SERIES FOCUSES ON RENAISSANCE ART, AUG. 11

Fort Bend County Libraries’ George Memorial Library will have an educational series focusing on “Art & Culture” this summer. The next program in the series, “Art & Culture: Renaissance Art,” will take place on Saturday, Aug. 11, from 1-3 p.m., in the Meeting Room of the library, located at 1001 Golfview in Richmond.

In this segment in the series, former architecture professor Sheba Akhtar will talk about Renaissance Art, from the Early Renaissance period’s rebirth of classicism in 1400 to the High Renaissance period of Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael (1490s to 1527). Learn how Florence, Italy, became the “Cradle of Renaissance Art” and how the Medici family of merchants and bankers influenced the period by becoming patrons of Florentine art. Akhtar will also discuss the art of Masaccio, Donatello and Brunelleschi.

Akhtar received her Master of Architecture degree from the University of Pennsylvania and taught art and architecture history for 20 years. She has practiced as an architect in the United States, England, Scotland, Jordan, and Pakistan. She is the author of “Of Colour and Form” and numerous articles on art and architecture.

The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call 281-342-4455.

___________________________________________________________________________________

COMPLIMENTARY MEALS FOR SENIOR CITIZENS

Catholic Charities Mamie George Community Center offers daily complimentary hot meals to Fort Bend senior citizens at Patty’s Café, open Monday through Friday 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Dining is available both inside and outside, with free wireless Internet access. Enrollment in the meal program is required at the Mamie George Community Center, located at 1111 Collins Road in Richmond. For more information, call 281-202-6200.

___________________________________________________________________________________

VEL LEWIS PARTNERS WITH FORT BEND EDUCATION AND EDISON ARTSFOUNDATION, AUG. 12

Vel Lewis, a local resident of Sugar Land and international contemporary jazz artist, joined efforts with Fort Bend Education Foundation and Edison Arts Foundation to establish an Instrument Fund program benefitting FBISD students enrolled in music programs.

The goal of the Instrument Fund is to eliminate barriers for youth interested in music and provide eligible students the opportunity to have their own instrument. Beyond that, Lewis seeks to empower gifted, disadvantaged students to pursue the musical arts. Through a select series of concerts that Lewis will produce in Fort Bend, funds will be raised to purchase instruments for select students. During concerts, students will also be given the opportunity to join renowned jazz artists on stage.

Lewis started learning organ/piano at the age of 10 and is now a world-recognized jazz artist. Today, he can be found in Sugar Land and surrounding areas directing school music groups, providing in-home music instruction, performing at local events and collaborating with artists while performing nationally and internationally and recording/composing his own work. He recently said, “I want to give back to the community and inspire younger generations with music.”

Local residents are encouraged to support the kickoff concert event at the Safari Texas Ranch on Sunday, Aug. 12, at 3:30 p.m.Lewis will be joined by Gianna Welling (internationally recognized soul, jazz and R&B vocalist), and Michael Paulo (influential pop, soul and contem­porary jazz saxophonist) for a memorable evening. The concert will be accompanied by an exquisite dinner prepared by an executive chef. To purchase tickets, go to bit.ly/VL_FBStudent.

___________________________________________________________________________________

FORT BEND ART CENTER, UPCOMING EVENTS

The Fort Bend Art Center has announced its line-up of art happenings at its new facility located at 2012 Avenue G in Rosenberg.

Aug. 11 – Hot Summer, Cool Nights Art Extravaganza, from 6-9 p.m., featuring live music by The Bronco Band, food truck, an after-hours peek at the ALFB Members and Made W Butler Art Galleries, studio artists in action with live demos, whiskey tasting compliments of local craft distillery 512 Whiskey. This event is free and open to the public.

Sept. 8 – Antique & Art Car Show will feature a live DJ, a 50/50 raffle supporting Lunches of Love and more prizes. Presented by the Rosenberg Arts Alliance. For more information, contact [email protected].

Oct. 13 – Bark in the Park, Antiques and Art Dog Parade will feature a costume contest and other man’s best friend activities, vendors, food trucks, art cars, demonstrations and more. Call 832-535-0718 or visit rosenbergtx.gov/autumn-arts-festivalfor
more information.

Nov. 3 – Fort Bend Art Center Art Show and Sale. Local artists will compete for ribbons and prizes.
Call 832-945-2882 or visit artleaguefortbend.orgfor more information.

The Fort Bend Art Center is a multi-arts center managed by members of the Art League of Fort Bend. The center functions as a shared-space for artists and art enthusiasts to create art, exhibit art work and experience art through art shows, exhibits and learning opportunities. Art studios are rented by over a dozen artists-in-residence, and visiting artists may provide classes by renting one of the instructional workshop rooms.

The Fort Bend Art Center was established in November 2017 by the Art League of Fort Bend, and held its grand opening event last February. The Center is open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m, and Sundays from 1-5 p.m.

___________________________________________________________________________________

SUBURBAN SUGAR LAND WOMEN, UPCOMING EVENTS

The following events and projects are upcoming for the Suburban Sugar Land Women (SSLW):

AUGUST:

Adopt Schools – Donate ongoing services and resources; Adopt A Spot Quarterly Clean Up; 4th Satur­day – Annual Appreciation Reception; and Children/
Youth Development and Educational Opportunities. Email [email protected] more information.

SEPTEMBER

4th Tuesday (25) – National Voter Registration Day in Fort Bend ISD. Willowridge High – Elise Leaks Harmon; Lamar High School, Lamar CISD – Shirley Sewell; and Stafford MISD at Stafford High – Mable Scott Austin.

Elementary Math Workshop for Parents. For more information email [email protected].

Sept. 29 – Youth and Parents Financial Literary Empower­ment. Email [email protected] for more information.

___________________________________________________________________________________

MUSICAL STORYTELLING PERFORMANCE OF “HARRIET TUBMAN” AT FIRST COLONY BRANCH LIBRARY, AUG. 13

Fort Bend County Libraries invites families to a fun, interactive performance of Git’ On Board! The Life of Harriet Tubmanon Monday, Aug. 13, beginning at 2 p.m., in the Meeting Room at the First Colony Branch Library, located at 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land.

Take a musical ride on the Underground Railroad to meet the heroic Harriet Tubman and learn of her early experiences as a slave. Highly acclaimed musician and storyteller Hope Shiver engages students in discovering how Tubman led fellow freedom-seeking slaves to hiding places on their way to safety in the North. Shiver interweaves Tubman’s poignant story with spirituals and work songs, allowing students to discover the lyrics of such songs as Swing Low, Sweet Chariotand Git on Board, which often contained hidden messages for slaves preparing to escape to freedom.

This performance is made possible by a grant through Young Audiences of Houston. Intended for families with children of all ages, the performance is free and open to the public. For more information, call 281-238-2800.

___________________________________________________________________________________

SIENNA PLANTATION FARMERS MARKET, FOURTH SUNDAY

Fresh produce, locally sourced spreads and condiments, and other foodie favorites can be found each month at the Sienna Plantation Community Farmers Market. The market happens 1-5 p.m. the fourth Sunday of each month at the train depot parking lot near the amphitheater, 9600 Scanlan Trace, in Sienna Plantation. In November and December, the market is planned for 3-7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 17, and 3-7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 15.

Launched in 2016, the market typically attracts more than three dozen vendors each month providing baked goods, beverages, meats, prepared foods, olive oils, honey, vegetables, spices, flowers and more. Learn more at siennafarmersmarket.com.

___________________________________________________________________________________

HOUSTON GLASS CLUB SHOW, AUG. 17-19

The 44th Annual Vintage Glass & Antique Show and Sale will be held Aug. 17-19 at the Fort Bend County Fair grounds in Rosenberg. The focus will be on American glass made from the early 1900’s through the 1960’s. Sponsored by The Houston Glass Club, dealers carry a wide variety of colorful 1930’s depression era glass and elegant glass (Heisey, Fostoria, Cambridge, etc.) from the 1920’s forward among their high quality glassware. Mid-century glass, another popular collectible, will be available throughout the show. American-made kitchenware, pottery and dinnerware are also featured. With more than 30 dealers from across America, you’ll find a cross section of America’s glass heritage combined under one roof.

A second building full of beautiful and one-of-a-kind general line antiques is right next door to the glass building. From primitives, silver, linens, jewelry, postcards, furniture and European collectibles, you can choose items to match your glass purchases to create a distinctive look you can call your own. Designers can select items that clients will love. From plain to fancy, common to rare finds, the Houston Glass Club Show truly excites the imagination to develop your own distinctive style through vintage glass and antiques.

Delicious sandwiches, cakes and other food items will be found at the on-site concession (watch for all the generous portions of chocolate and coconut cakes being carried throughout the show). Also don’t miss Leigh Ann Winter from Texas Silver Mercantile who will be onsite to repair damaged glass, silver and costume jewelry items. This is a rare opportunity to get that special family heirloom restored. Information on joining the Houston Glass Club will also be available.

Show times are 2-7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 17; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 18; and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 21. Fort Bend County Fairgrounds is located on Hwy. 36 in Rosenberg. Admission is $10 on Friday (good all weekend), $6 on Saturday and Sunday with free parking. For more information, call 281-240-0382.

___________________________________________________________________________________

H.O.P.E (HELPING OUR PARENTS EXCEL) AUTISM RESOURCE FAIR, AUG. 18

Hope For Three Autism Advocates is hosting a resource fair including a variety of providers, therapists, nutritionists, and professionals. The fair will take place at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, East Tower Conference Room on Saturday, Aug. 18, 10 a.m.-noon. Interested providers may register by emailing [email protected] by calling 281-245-0640. For more information, visit hopeforthree.org.

___________________________________________________________________________________

SCOTT GRAHAM TO ENTERTAIN AT LOVING FRIENDS DINNER, AUG. 21

Loving Friends will meet for dinner and entertainment on Tuesday, Aug. 21, at 5 p.m at Quail Valley City Cr., 2880 La Quinta Dr., Missouri City. Scott Graham, a local Houstonian and renowned pianist will entertain the group.

Scott’s repertoire embraces the sounds of yesterday and today as he has mastered a variety of styles, including, classical, pop, top 40, jazz and country.

Loving Friends is a social group – not a grief support group – of men and women who lost their spouses but want to move on with their lives in fellowship and friendship. The group meets monthly for dinner and entertainment at Quail Valley City Center and also hosts monthly lunches at area restaurants . If you have lost a spouse and want to make new friends in a social environment, Loving Friends is for you. The cost for the monthly dinner meetings is $23 inclusive and reservations are required by calling 281-208-3124. New guests are always greeted with a warm welcome.

___________________________________________________________________________________

“THE HARVEY EXPERIENCE – ONE YEAR LATER” EVENT, AUGUST 25

Fort Bend Recovers – the official long-term recovery committee of Fort Bend County – is planning an event to honor the survivors of Hurricane Harvey and acknowledge the journey the community has made and will continue to make. Fort Bend Recovers …with Creativity will present “The Harvey Experience – One Year Later” to mark the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Harvey. The free event will be held on Saturday, Aug. 25, at Constellation Field in Sugar Land from 12-2 p.m.

The Harvey Experience will be an exhibition, a creative and positive opportunity to share original visual and performing works of art created and submitted by Fort Bend County residents of all ages and backgrounds whot have been impacted by Harvey. Fort Bend Recovers is calling for residents to tell their Harvey story through performing arts, literature, visual arts and others such as animation and digital arts.

Organizers feel it is important to remember what happened during Hurricane Harvey so that people can learn from the experience, learn about themselves and the community, and facilitate healing.

The deadline for submissions is Aug. 1. For more details, visit fortbendrecovers.org/with-creativity.

___________________________________________________________________________________

MISSOURI CITY PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT SUMMER PROGRAMS

The Parks & Recreation Department has a program agenda that is fun for all ages. Visit mctxparks.comfor more information and a full schedule.

Fencing Classes: 5-6:30 p.m. every Tuesday at the Community Center, 1522 Texas Pkwy.

Ladies Cardio Tennis: 9-10:30 a.m. every Tuesday and Thursday at the Recreation and Tennis Center, 2701 Cypress Point Dr.

Group Piano Classes: 2nd-3rd grade lessons – 4:45 p.m. on Wednesdays; 4th-5th grade lessons – 5 p.m. on Thursdays at the Community Center.

Tots & Crafts: 9-10 a.m. every other Wednesday morning at the Community Center.

Summer Tennis Camp: Interested participants can register by calling 281-403-8629 or emailing [email protected]. The camp runs weekly from June 25- Aug. 10 at the Recreation and Tennis Center.

___________________________________________________________________________________

GREAT GROWN-UP SPELLING BEE, SEPT. 20

The Literacy Council’s ninth annual Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee, presented by CenterPoint Energy and Houston Federal Credit Union, is a fun, casual evening of friendly competition between teams slated for Thursday, Sept. 20, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Quail Valley Golf Course & City Centre. This year’s event is co-chaired by Emily Rhodes and David Timmermeyer.

Sponsorship and underwriting opportunities are available for this event, ranging from $750 to $1,250. Don’t have great spellers? Call 281-240-8181 to sponsor a team. Smaller sponsorships are also available, including “Bee a Word” sponsor for $200 and choose a word to be used in the Bee. For $100, a sponsor can select a letter in the “A-Bee-C’s for Literacy” alphabet. Opt to claim the first letter of your business, child, family or pet’s name. “Bee a Word” sponsors will receive admission, dinner and drink tickets for two, recognition on the website, and recognition at the event. “A-Bee-C’s for Literacy” sponsors will receive admission and dinner for one, recognition on the website and recognition at the event.

Spectator Bee tickets are available for $50 and include admission to the Bee, dinner and a drink ticket. Watch neighbors, co-workers and friends compete against one another to win a coveted spot in the “Honey Hall of Fame.” There will be a raffle for a chance to win a Texas Hill Country Weekend Getaway that includes two nights at a B&B in Fredericksburg and a Lexus loaner car for the weekend. For more information, visit ftbendliteracy.orgor call 281-240-8181.

___________________________________________________________________________________

SUGAR LAND HERITAGE HIKE, SECOND SATURDAY

Presented each second Saturday of the month, trained guides will lead tours through a beautiful, historic neighborhood and share stories about the people and events that shaped Sugar Land’s history.

As an added bonus, the Sugar Land Heritage Foundation is now partnering with the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation to include the 1918 Sugar Land Auditorium on the walking tour. Participants will have an opportunity to view the interior of this restored historic building.

Walking tours begin at 10 a.m. and conclude at 11:30 a.m. The group will depart from the SLHF office, 198 Kempner Street (next to the historic Char House).The cost is free for children under 12; $5, teens; and $10, adults. Proceeds benefit the Sugar Land Heritage Foundation and the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation. Reservations are appreciated but not required. For more information, visit slheritage.orgor call 281-494-0261.

___________________________________________________________________________________

COASTAL PRAIRIE QUILT GUILD QUILT SHOW AND AUCTION AT STAFFORDCENTRE, SEPT. 7-8

The nonprofit Coastal Prairie Quilt Guild of Texas will hold its biannual Quilt Show at the Stafford Centre on Friday, Sept. 7 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 8 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The $10 admission fee covers entry both days.

Approximately 200 quilts made by guild members will be displayed to view and purchase. This is a judged show and prizes will be awarded. There will be demonstrations by member quilters. On Friday at 1 p.m. Quilts of Valor will have a presentation and award quilts to several veterans. On Saturday at 11:30 a.m. the Live Quilt Auction will be held. There will also be raffle gift baskets for $1 a ticket.

The show also will include a large vendor mall offering fabric, notions, and craft supplies and an “eye-spy” game for younger visitors and other attractions. The Artisan Market will feature small quilts, doll quilts, table runners, baby quilts and bags for holiday gifting.

The Stafford Centre is located at 10505 Cash Road in Stafford. Parking is free.

___________________________________________________________________________________

FORT BEND PARTNERSHIP FOR YOUTH SEEKS ADULT MENTORS

The mission of the nonprofit Fort Bend Partnership for Youth is to reduce youth involvement with the juvenile justice system by establishing positive relationships between youthful offenders and volunteer adult role models from the community.

The juveniles are referred by the Fort Bend County Juvenile Probation Depart­ment. There are so many children in need of a listening ear and encouragement. Come forward and be that person for someone in need… you may be the only one! Mentors must be 21 years of age and willing to give a minimum of an hour a week.

For more information about the program or to make a tax-deductible donation, contact Susan Bearden at [email protected] call her at 281-633-7317.

___________________________________________________________________________________

FORT BEND BRASS QUINTET TO PERFORM AT GEORGE MEMORIALLIBRARY, AUG. 26

Live music by talented local musicians in the Fort Bend Brass Quintet will be featured at Fort Bend County Libraries’ George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview in Richmond, on Sunday, Aug. 26, from 2-3 p.m., in the Meeting Room of the library.

The group will play a variety of musical pieces arranged for a brass quintet, from jazz and Dixie to swing and contemporary. Reminisce with old favorites like Back in the Saddle Againor Alley Cat, sway to the mellow sounds of the St. Louis Blues, or tap your toes to Dixie Bachand more.

The quintet features two trumpets, a French horn, a trombone, and a tuba. The musicians have more than 100 years of combined musical experience, including performing with the Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra. The performance is free and open to the public. For more information, call 281-342-4455.

___________________________________________________________________________________

QUAIL VALLEY GARDEN CLUB MEETING, SECOND THURSDAY

Since 1972, The Quail Valley Garden Club has provided community service efforts including beautification, scholarships and education in Quail Valley, Missouri City and Fort Bend County. The QVGC Member Meeting is the second Thursday of each month from 9:30-11 a.m.

For information, visit quailvalletygardenclub.orgor email [email protected].

___________________________________________________________________________________

GOLF “FORE” STUDENT SUCCESS TO BENEFIT THE FORT BEND EDUCATIONFOUNDATION, AUG. 27

Plan now to golf “fore” education in the Fort Bend Education Foundation’s 19th Annual Back to School Scramble golf tournament, scheduled for Monday, Aug. 27, at Sweetwater Country Club.

Schlumberger is presenting the Back to School Scramble, chaired by Chris Barton and Jeremy Alberty. Chick-fil-A is providing breakfast. The entry fee includes breakfast, golf and cart, beverages, lunch reception and special gifts. Sponsorship opportunities are available starting at $2,250, along with Foursome Teams $1,000 and individual entries $275.For more information and sponsorship opportunities, call 281- 634-1111 or email [email protected]. More information about the foundation is at fortbendisd.com/foundation.

___________________________________________________________________________________

SUGAR LAND GARDEN CLUB SUMMER LIBRARY TALK, AUG. 28

The Sugar Land Garden Club will host its annual summer library talk on Tuesday, Aug. 28 starting at 1:30 p.m. at the Sugar Land Branch Library, 550 Eldridge Road. “Diversity of Ferns” will be presented by Darla Harris, president of the Texas Gulf Coast Fern Society.

In this show and tell presentation, Harris will bring many of her favorite ferns, both ground-hardy and tropical. She will discuss the highlights of each plant and provide all the vital details on its requirements for light, water and soil. She will pass around the plants for attendees to get a close view of each fern.

As an avid grower of ferns for more than 30 years, Harris has collected more than 450 different varieties. She enjoys the challenge of growing both tropical and hardy ferns in the Houston area climate, but her passion is learning how the ferns grow in nature and then attempting to duplicate this environment in the residential setting.

Harris’ latest accomplishment is opening her own fern nursery, Fern Plantation Nursery in Magnolia, where she has more than 150 different ferns and adds more all the time. All meetings of the Sugar Land Garden Club are free and open to the public. For further information, visit sugarlandgardenclub.org.

___________________________________________________________________________________

FORT BEND COUNTY FAIR MUSICAL LINEUP, STARTING SEPT. 28

Thirteen musical artists will be performing on the Brazos stage during The Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo’s 10-day run from Sept. 28-Oct. 7. “Our lineup features a mix of Texas Music, traditional country music, Tejano Music, and something for everyone to enjoy. We are thrilled that some artists will be returning, and others will be making their debut, but it is sure to be a good time for all,” said James Duke, 2018 Fort Bend County Fair President.

Kicking off the Fair will be the Turnpike Troubadours on Friday, Sept. 28. The group continues to be one of the most sought-after acts. Micky and the Motorcars, an Austin-based alternative-country group will be opening. Koe Wetzel will be playing for his first time at the Fair on Saturday, Sept. 29. Wetzel brings a strong mixture of southern rock energy and East Texas charm. The duo from the Panhandle, Shotgun Rider, will be opening.

On Sunday, Sept. 30 the fan favorite Siggno will headline the day. The Grammy-nominated band has been a powerhouse in packing in the Sunday crowd. Inicio and Elida Reyna y Avante will also be performing. On Wednesday, Oct. 3 the ‘80s throwback band Spazmatics will be making its Fair debut. Dressed like over-the-top nerds, the Spazmatics put on a great show for people of all ages.

John Conlee will kick off the second weekend of the Fair on Friday, Oct. 5. The legendary country singer has performed to audiences of all ages with his unique voice. Randall King will be opening.

Parker McCollum will headline on Saturday, Oct. 6. The talented singer/songwriter from Conroe is one of the hottest acts in country music and is making his first appearance at the Fair. Parker will bring his style of alternative-country to the stage with the Drew Fish Band opening.

Jake Hooker and the Outsiders will close the Fair on Oct. 7. Hooker is a staple on the dance hall circuit.

The 2018 fair’s theme is “County Fair is our Favorite Time.” Tickets will go on sale later this summer. Visit fortbendcountyfair.comfor more information and full concert schedule details.

___________________________________________________________________________________

GOLF “FORE” AUTISM, OCT. 15

Hope For Three Autism Advocates and Timewise have announced a partnership aimed at raising awareness and supporting children with autism in Fort Bend County.

Join the fun for the third annual Golf “Fore” Autism presented by Timewise on Oct. 15 at the Sweetwater Country Club. Individuals and business partners will enjoy the opportunity to network, a day of golf, creative and fun games, dinner and awards ceremony.

Register a team of four or as an individual by going to HopeForThree.org/Event/Golf. Opportunities are available to volunteer or sponsor the charitable tournament. Funds raised provide children with autism access to life-changing therapies and services they might otherwise go without.

Win a year’s worth of gas, courtesy of Timewise. Chances are $20 each and there is no limit to how many you can purchase. A drawing will be held at the event, but you do not need to be present to win. Take a chance on “ausome” kids. To learn more, visit HopeForThree.org/Timewise.

For more information, call 281-245-0640 or visit HopeForThree.org.

___________________________________________________________________________________

ARTS WORKSHOPS AT MAMIE GEORGE COMMUNITY CENTER

Catholic Charities offers a Creative Aging program to help bring the arts to seniors in Fort Bend County. The program at the Mamie George Community Center runs Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. and offers classes on painting, crafts and mixed-media art and invites an intergenerational mix of volunteers and friends. The program’s focus is on the seniors’ creativity, providing enriching experiences, and social opportunities. For more information, call
281-202-6200.