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A SENSE OF HOME Page 06
ALSO INSIDE 5 Money-Saving Tips for Teens pg.05 The Benefits of Sleepaway Camps for Children and Teens pg.08
Growing our team of experts in
OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY Houston Methodist Welcomes Dr. Elizabeth Mosier Elizabeth Mosier, MD, joins Rosalyn Miller, DO, at Houston Methodist Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates in Sugar Land. Together, these board-certified OB-GYNs provide the full range of care, including: • Adolescent and adult gynecology • Low- and high-risk obstetric care • Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery • Well-woman exams Backed by the advanced technology of Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, both doctors are committed to providing comprehensive care to women of all ages so they can live full and healthy lives.
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Elizabeth Mosier, MD Obstetrics and Gynecology
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DEAR DOCTOR DEAR DOCTOR: My doctor suggested that I should get screened for colorectal cancer when I turn 50. Is that really necessary?
The Young People Issue Since these symptoms may overlap with other gastrointestinal problems, screening is important. Screening options
There isn’t a best option when it comes to screening for polyps or colorectal cancer, but you have several choices. “Screening options like stool tests, colonosDEAR READER: copy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, or CT colonography Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of can- have their advantages and disadvantages. You should cer-related death for both men and women. Colorectal consult with your doctor to see which is right for screenings are recommended for adults between the you,” said Agarwal. ages of 50 and 75. More than 90% of colorectal cancer occurs in people age 50 and older, and that risk increases Treatments for colorectal cancer as you get older. Treatments range from surgery to chemotherapy and “Colorectal cancer doesn’t always show symptoms. You could have precancerous polyps or colorectal cancer and not even know it,” said Amit K. Agarwal, MD, FACS, a colon and rectal surgeon with UT Physicians.
radiation therapy. Your treatment options will vary based on what stage the cancer is in and where it is located. “Surgery is often the choice for earlier diagnoses while chemotherapy and radiation therapy are usually the option for late stages,” said Agarwal. “The more complex the cancer, the more advanced the cancer treatment needs to be.” It’s important to review all of your treatment options, including the possible side effects, with your doctors to help make the decision that best fits your needs.
Other risk factors may also increase the possibility of colorectal cancer. “If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or have an inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn’s, your risk is much higher,” said Agarwal. “Lifestyle factors, such as overconsumption of processed meats, low physical activity, and tobacco or excessive alcohol use, also affects your risk.” Eating a balanced The death rate from colorectal cancer has been dropping diet, quitting smoking, and lowering alcohol consump- in both men and women for several decades. This is likely to due to early detection from screenings, in addition to tion can improve your overall health and lifestyle. improvements in colorectal cancer treatments. Signs and symptoms Here are some warning signs: • Change in bowel movements – constipation, diarrhea. or narrowing of stool sizes • Abdominal pain or discomfort – cramps, bloating, gas, or feeling full • Rectal bleeding – stools may appear bloody or dark red • Weakness or fatigue – unexplained weight loss, vomiting, or nausea
Amit K. Agarwal, MD, FACS, sees patients at UT Physicians Colon and Rectal Clinic located at 17510 W. Grand Parkway South, Suite 450, Sugar Land, TX 77479. To schedule an appointment, please call 713-486-4742. UT Physicians is the clinical practice of McGovern Medical School at UTHealth.
CONTENTS FEATURES
05
5 Money-Saving Tips for Teens
06
A Sense of Home
08
The Benefits of Sleepaway Camps for Children and Teens
10
Jigsaw Puzzles - Perfect for ‘Me’ and ‘We’ Time This Winter
MONTHLY DEPARTMENTS
03
Community Profile
Young Adult Programs at the Sienna Branch Library
Dear Doctor Sponsored By
UT Physicians at Sienna Village
Sienna Plantation News is a Community Magazines LLC publication.
ADVERTISING INFORMATION Contact Denise R Williams, Publisher communitynews@entouch.net www.siennaplantationnews.com 281.750.2979
COMMUNITY PROFILE YOUNG ADULT PROGRAMS AT THE SIENNA BRANCH LIBRARY FOR TEENS IN GRADES 9-12
YA Game Nights – Mondays, Mar 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 6:00- teens in grades 9-12 a taste of the interviewing process. 8:00 pm, Young Adult Room. Teens in grades 9-12 can
Teens should register online or by calling 281-238-
test their gaming skills and challenge other teens to
2950; library staff will contact each individual to set up
video games, board games, and card games. Snacks
a time for the “interview.” Teens should bring a resumé
will be provided through the generous support of the
if they already have one and come dressed for success.
Friends of the Sienna Branch Library.
Registration required.
YA “Ace the Interview: A Mock-Interview Workshop” – Thursday, Mar 12, 10:00 am-12:00 noon, Young Adult Room. Library staff will conduct mock interviews to give 3
Continued on pg. 09
SUN, APR 12 9A • 11A
GREGG MATTE, PASTOR MALCOLM MARSHALL, CAMPUS PASTOR NORMAL SUNDAY SCHEDULE 8:30A • 9:45A • 11:15A 4309 SIENNA PARKWAY HOUSTONSFIRST.ORG 4
sienna campus
time to buy a car, go to college or rent an apartment.
5 MONEY-SAVING TIPS FOR TEENS
3. Never start the month without a plan: At the start of the month, sit down and list everything you will need to pay for in the coming weeks. Think about how much you have, what your paycheck will be and do the math to make sure you have enough to cover it. This doesn’t have to be complicated, just a simple list on your phone so it’s always with you. Check in with your monthly plan every week or so, and make sure everything’s on track. 4. Sort out needs vs. wants: Here’s the tough part. Your favorite band is coming to town, and all your friends want to catch the show. But your phone needs a new battery, your car has a flat tire and insurance is due. It’s tempting to raid your savings account so you can do it all. Remember, your spending plan will be meaningless if you don’t stick to it. There will be times when you’ll need the conviction to
In 2018, the average college graduate faced $29,200 in
your credit report almost right away. It takes seven years
student loan debt - the highest it’s ever been - according to
before that disappears from your credit history. That can
a new report by the Institute for College Access & Success.
mean paying higher interest rates, being turned down for a
Recent data from TransUnion shows that more than half
loan or not getting hired for a job. Being smart with money
of people ages 18 to 24 who have a credit card are carrying
helps you avoid the credit trap.
Compare prices online, wait for a sale or download a digital
2. Be a saver - it’s never too early to start: What’s the best
ask for ice water; then put that money into savings. Smart
a balance. Teens need help making sound money decisions. One
way to avoid using credit cards? Build a savings cushion, so
financial literacy program pairs teens with volunteer
when unexpected costs come up, there will be no need for
mentors to create hands-on financial learning. Money
a credit card. Any time money comes in - your paycheck,
Matters: Make It Count, created by Boys & Girls Clubs of
babysitting money, birthday cash from grandma -first pay
America and Charles Schwab Foundation, is celebrating
yourself. Tuck some of it away, and watch those dollars add
its 16th anniversary. Young people have gone through the
up. Someday, that money will be there for you when it’s
program a million times since it started.
say no but make room in your budget for the fun things too. 5. Stretch your dollars: You work hard for your money. Let it work hard for you! Before you buy, shop around. coupon. If you’re grabbing lunch, skip the beverage and money moves like these can leave you with a little extra and make it easier to balance your needs, wants and savings. Creating good financial habits early in life can help you achieve your goals. Parents or teens who’d like to learn more can check with their local Boys & Girls Club, or visit the Money Matters page on BGCA.org.
Tamara Johnson served as a former ambassador for
We focus on you, so you can focus on the more important things...
the program in Santa Fe. Johnson, who earned college scholarships and now practices family law, credits the program for giving her the foundation she needed to take on the responsibilities of adulthood. As a result, she’s debt free.
Drs. Sonhui Chung & Alain Tran of Eye Connection would like to invite you and your family to our office to meet Dr. Chung and the staff; you will also receive special savings on eyewear & eyecare products!
“While I was an ambassador, so many adults told me how they wished they had started as early as I did in getting the money thing right,” said Johnson. “I would tell any teenager if they have the opportunity to take part in Money
EYE CONNECTION
Matters or any other financial literacy program, take it.
for you and your family
You’ll learn simple steps for saving, and your future self will thank you!”
Glasses • Contact Lenses • LASIK Co-Management • Pediatrics
Johnson Offers Her Top Five Tips. Sienna Office 8880 Hwy 6, Suite 200 • Missouri City, TX 77459 Phone: 281.778.2020
1. Respect the power of credit: You know how adults are always saying a bad decision can haunt you for years? That’s
www.youreyeconnection.com
definitely true with credit. Bad money habits, like maxing out your credit card or making late payments, will show on 5
The Cox family (Left to Right: Cohen, Christi, Mark, Caden, Kipton. Photo by Richard Carson)
A Sense of Home
wife Stacey, offer to watch our kids for date nights or when we are gone for week-long events with the student ministry. That is special to us since we are so far from our families,” Mark says.
by Aimee Gomez
Mark leads the church’s student ministry, called The HUB, and disciples Mark Cox quickly felt at home when he moved from across the country to
students and fosters community among the students. The way that Mark leads
Sienna Plantation to serve as the Minister of Students at the Sienna Campus
this ministry is influenced by his own
of Houston’s First Baptist Church.
student minister from his youth.
Mark, his wife Christi, and their three sons, Kipton, Caden, and Cohen, moved
“He would lead me in a devotional at
in September 2018 from Ohio where Mark served as the Lead Pastor of Access
Starbucks before school and it inspired
Church. He discusses how his family felt welcomed by this new community.
me to do the same,” Mark explains. “He created an environment where
“We have found that Sienna people are welcoming and friendly, “Mark says “I
the students could connect with each
love how the schools have taken care of the kids. The kids started late, so it was
other about their faith journey. I found
a big deal that our teachers were attentive to our kids’ needs.”
it is important to do that based on the struggles that teenagers go through.”
Mark explains how the Sienna Campus has also been supportive in this transition. “One of the ways that our church has come around us is that we have had
Mark shares with students in The HUB on a Sunday (Photo by Richard Carson)
several families, including Sienna Campus Pastor Malcolm Marshall and his 6
Mark listens to The HUB students (Photo by Richard Carson)
The HUB Sienna after their All-Nighter event
Mark has found, after meeting with school counselors, that students are
are,” Mark explains. Mark, as well as Christi, partners with the students’ families
struggling with anxiety now more than ever.
and are intentional about being available for questions parents may have. Church members Mike and Marian Denney have a daughter Emma in the student ministry
“Students are feeling very high expectations from their academics. Counselors
and Mike explains how the Cox family has walked alongside them.
said that students feel like if they fail, they feel that life is over. They want to give up,” Mark explains. “We are finding that students are experiencing
“Whenever I’ve had questions about Emma or my faith in general, Mark and
crushing anxiety and they don’t know how to cope.”
Christi have been available and are always encouraging. We are very fortunate to have the Cox family at Sienna,” Mike says.
Mark explains how parents can guide their students through this struggle with anxiety.
Recently, Mark started having some great conversations with students who were asking really heavy questions about where the Bible and real life intersect.
“Help your child understand that true peace can only be found in Jesus.
Many students had friends who wanted to get in on those conversations but
Also, press into your relationship with your kids,” Mark says. “Give them
won’t attend church. Mark decided to record these conversations in a podcast
the opportunity to be open about their struggles. Create a home where
called No Running in Church so students can share them with friends and have
grace is plentiful. Be careful of expectations that you put on your students.
a safe place to ask those hard questions.
Generationally, they are walking through some of the hardest times possible.”
Mike Denney explains the impact the podcast has on his daughter Emma’s faith.
Mark leans into this struggle by being present and building relationships with students. He creates events such as taco night at the Cox family home where
“I know Emma appreciates the truthful way in which Mark explains the faith,
students can cultivate relationships outside of the church setting and know that
and I believe that his willingness to not shy away from the hard questions has
they are not alone.
been the difference between Emma diving into The HUB as opposed to
“I have tried to give students a sense of belonging. That is why it is not just Bible
just staying on the fringes,” Mike says.
study. I want the students to have a sense of home and that they can be who they
Mark sees some great things in the student ministry’s future.
STUDENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES — AND EVERYBODY ELSE — ARE INVITED TO EASTER SERVICES ON SUN, APR 12, AT 9A AND 11A
“Over the next couple of years, the energy level is going to go through the roof! There will be more events where students can connect with each other. There will also be opportunities
• At the Sienna Campus of Houston’s First (4309 Sienna Parkway).
for students to serve not just the community but around the world,”
• Visit HoustonsFirst.org or text SIENNA to 41411 for more information.
Mark explains. 7
UPCOMING EVENT The HUB Sienna Dodgeball Tournament Sun, Apr 5 @ 5-8p Baines Middle School 9000 Sienna Ranch Rd Missouri City, TX 77459 Free registration at the door! Visit HoustonsFirst.org for details.
THE BENEFITS OF SLEEPAWAY CAMPS FOR CHILDREN AND TEENS
As a parent, you worry about your child’s future. Will they be confident enough
For example, Cheley Colorado Camps, a traditional sleepaway camp celebrat-
to weather life’s ups and downs? Will they find happiness and success? How
ing its 100th year, is designed to give children a chance to slow down, learn
will they navigate their future challenges?
about themselves, connect with nature and explore new things in a relaxed, supportive environment.
According to research by the American Camp Association (ACA), a traditional sleepaway camp - where a child or teen spends 1-4 weeks away from home -
According to Brooke Cheley-Klebe, camp director and fourth-generation
helps them experience growth and development beyond a specialized day
Cheley family camp leadership, “Parents and campers tell us the camp experi-
“camp” or class.
ence was life-changing. It is not only a mechanism for growth, but an experience that shapes their life in a positive way for years to come.”
Rather than spending a week learning computer coding or at a hyper-focused sports camp, a sleepaway camp develops qualities that last a lifetime.
Expanding horizons
Enhanced self-development
Being away from home means your child leaves their comfort zone. Sharing
It may seem hard to let your child spend so much time away, but camp can be
tries is also a completely new experience.
space with kids they’ve never met, from different backgrounds, states or coun-
a huge boost to their confidence, independence and resilience. It also builds
Exploring challenging activities expands your child’s world, which can be fun,
social-emotional skills to benefit them through adulthood.
exhilarating and self-affirming. If your child or teen has never ridden a horse or gone rafting, these activities may stretch their abilities beyond what they
• Confidence comes from doing. A child who must do things on their own, without
thought they could achieve. Cheley campers partake in dozens of outdoor
a parent nearby, learns they can accomplish much more than they thought.
activities, crafts and more.
• Becoming self-reliant and developing a feeling of competence comes from attempting - and sometimes failing - until they succeed.
Trying a variety of new things changes a child’s idea of what they’re capable of - much more than camps focusing on one subject - fostering curiosity, perse-
• Learning to persevere through discomfort helps a child feel like they can handle
verance, a love of learning and inner confidence.
anything, creating resilience.
Connecting with nature
A camp experience that builds independence, self-reliance and confidence is a
As young people increasingly spend time indoors, they lose opportunities to
huge gift - and parents can give that gift to their children by finding a camp that
connect with nature and appreciate the beauty around them. Spending time
boosts a child’s sense of self.
outdoors improves young people’s ability to live in the moment. 8
develop better social skills while reading each other’s non-verbal cues, like facial expressions and body language. Face-to-face interaction is the only way to develop those skills. Lifelong friendships Kids at sleepaway camp bond with other campers in a deep, lasting way. Sharing the camp experience creates a sense of community, fostering lifelong friendships. In the ACA research, children and teens said making new friends was the best part of camp. They - and their parents - said social skills learned from camp helped them develop friendships at school, long after camp ended. While you may initially feel reluctant to send your child to camp, giving your child this gift can be life-changing. To learn more, visit Cheley.com.
Affinity for nature was one of the top benefits of camp found in the ACA study.
Happy 10th Anniversary
Sleeping under the stars and exploring the outdoors foster an appreciation for nature that can’t be achieved any other way.
For ten years, Sienna Plantation News has connected
Unplugging from technology
health care providers, local, and national businesses with the residents of Sienna Plantation, a top-selling
Sometimes it seems like technology and social media have taken over, espe-
community nationwide, and one of 2019’s top five selling
cially for young people. Giving up technology for weeks may seem impossible,
master-planned communities in Texas. The team at
but the results are astonishing. A decrease in anxiety and an increase in happi-
Sienna Plantation News, a Community Magazines, LLC
ness are noticeable in most campers when they unplug.
publication, look forward to serving Sienna for the next decade and beyond.
In the ACA research, teens and children who unplugged reported learning how to live in the moment. They stopped worrying about the past or future, instead focusing on their present experiences.
Our first cover, March 2010
Putting down technology means learning to look other people in the eye. They
Continued from pg. 03 Teen Tech Week: BITE (Build It Then Eat) Devices – Thursday, Mar 12, 3:00-4:00
Free ACT Practice-Test Session – Saturday, Mar 21, 10:30 am–3:00 pm, Meeting
pm, Young Adult Room. Create a sweet switch or tasteful tablet with snack supplies,
Room. A representative from Princeton Review will administer a practice test to
and then enjoy eating an “electronic edible”.
college-bound students in grades 9-12. This practice test will prepare students for the actual ACT test. The scores on this practice test will only be shared with the student;
Young Adult Advisory Council: Giant Post-It Note Mural – Friday, Mar 13, 2:00-
they will not be sent to any educational institutions. Bring two #2 pencils, and a
4:00 pm, Young Adult Room. In celebration of Youth Art Month, teens in grades
non-graphing calculator if available. Registration is required; sign up by going to the
9-12 are invited to help create new artwork for the Young Adult Room. Participants
library’s online events calendar (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us) or by calling the library.
will express their creativity and expand their imagination by using sticky notes to design a mural for the room. Earn volunteer hours, meet other teens, and get to
Young Adult Advisory Council – Wednesday, Mar 25, 4:00-5:00 pm, Young Adult
know the library!
Room. At this monthly meeting, teens are invited to express ideas, organize upcoming activities, and suggest new programs that would be of interest to young adults at the
Young Adult Book Club – Wednesday, Mar 18, 4:00-5:00 pm, Young Adult Room.
library. Earn volunteer/service hours and meet new friends while helping to shape the
Teen readers in grades 9-12 will have the opportunity to meet with others who share
future of library services for teens.
the same love for great books and have a lively discussion on the reasons a book or its characters were liked or disliked. In March, readers are invited to talk about
Fort Bend County Libraries’ Sienna Branch Library is located at 8411 Sienna Springs
Challenger Deep, written by Neal Shusterman.
Blvd. All programs are free and open to the public. For more information, see the Fort Bend County Libraries website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), or call the Sienna Branch Library (281-238-2900). 9
JIGSAW PUZZLES PERFECT FOR ‘ME’ AND ‘WE’ TIME THIS WINTER
During the chilly days and cozy nights at home this winter, there’s no better
complete your puzzle at your own pace and reminds you to pause and take a
time to rediscover the simple pleasures and quiet joys of indoor activities that
moment to slow down every so often.
help you relax and reconnect with family. Over the holidays, through winter break and beyond, families everywhere are eager to unplug, get away from
“We” time
screens, and spend quality time together.
In the Ipsos study, 7 out of 10 (69%) respondents who puzzle saw it as a family tradition activity, and 59% said that they like to do puzzles while they’re on
One great activity to help you do that is puzzling, which you can enjoy alone
vacation or over holiday break.
or with friends and family. Did you know that 1 in 2 Americans puzzle at least once a year? A study conducted by Ipsos on behalf of Ravensburger found that
Jigsaw puzzles can be a fun and effortless way to reconnect with family and
American adults puzzle for a number of different reasons - from millennials
friends of all ages. When everyone gathers around the table to puzzle together,
looking for an escape from their digital world to seniors who like activities
it offers opportunities for relaxed conversations and connection with each
that help them stay mentally fit. Perhaps also not surprisingly, 3 in 4 of those
other, away from the formality of a meal or structured activity. You may learn
surveyed said that they puzzle most during the winter months.
something special and new from one of your loved ones during a casual “side conversation” while working on a jigsaw puzzle together. From piecing together
Here are a few of the benefits of taking a little time in your day to work on a
the riddles in an “escape the room” puzzle to your own customized puzzle of
jigsaw puzzle.
a treasured family photo - Ravensburger offers collaborative puzzles that are
“Me” time
perfect for family time.
It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, especially after
Working on puzzles allows everyone to unplug from technology, slow down
the holiday season has wrapped and the coldest winter months set in. This time
and live in the moment together. In fact, 84% of those surveyed said that they
of year, it’s more important than ever to be checking in on your self-care habits
usually puzzled together with others.
and creating a sense of wellness in your life. Jigsaw puzzles provide a relaxing,
Why do people like to puzzle, whether alone or together? Those who regularly
tactile and meditative outlet that is sure to keep the winter blues at bay. You
puzzle said that their main reasons are relaxation (59%), fun (57%), stress
can choose a picture that is sure to bring you joy once it’s completed - from a
relief (47%), and brain boosting (42%) - all of which are especially important
beautiful piece of art or a cultural icon such as a 3D replica of a double-decker
to maintain during the short, cold winter days.
London bus - puzzling gives you the opportunity to bring your favorite things to life in a fun new way.
No matter your age, you can open up the experience of puzzling to your friends and family this winter and beyond to take a break from your tech-fueled lives
The results are all positive - puzzling helps you de-stress, improves your
and enjoy spending time together. Kids, teens, parents and grandparents can all
memory, and boosts your problem-solving skills.
puzzle together - no user manual, batteries or complicated directions required!
Puzzling on your own lets you choose how often and for how long you enjoy the activity. Leaving a puzzle in progress on a kitchen or dining room table lets you 10
STRUGGLING WITH BACK OR NECK PAIN? Living with back or neck pain can be difficult. Whether you’ve experienced pain for a few days or a number of years, you want answers and effective treatment, and you want them now. The Houston Methodist Neuroscience & Spine Center offers access to world-class specialists and subspecialists, including: • Neurologists • Neurosurgeons • Orthopedic spine surgeons • Pain management specialists • Physical and occupational therapists • Primary care sports medicine specialists Our team of board-certified physicians and rehabilitation therapists will work together to provide the comprehensive, personalized care you need to help you return to a productive life. Expedited appointments and second opinions are available.
STOP ENDURING PAIN. Request an appointment online at houstonmethodist.org/neuro-sl or call 281.274.7979.
11
CARING FOR YOUR LITTLE CHAMPION For the moments that make you smile or take your breath away, UT Physicians understands the unique care that each child needs. From routine screenings to specialized ser vices, you can count on us to provide the latest treatment options that fit your family ’s needs. We’re focused on your child’s wellbeing. With a network of over 2,000 providers and more than 100 locations, you can find quality care close to home. Visit UTPhysicians.com, or call 888-4UT-DOCS to schedule an appointment.
