March-April 2023 - Absolutely Brazos Magazine

MARCH/ APRIL 2023

Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship

Covering Richmond, Rosenberg, Fulshear, Needville & Katy

Medical FOCUS

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CONTRIBUTORS

{Feature} 12 MEDICAL FOCUS Health Care News You Can Use

MARCH/APRIL 2023 VOLUME 11 | NUMBER 2

{COVER STORY}

{Columns} 10 THE DRUNKEN CYCLIST I’ll Be the Judge of That

Patti Parish-Kaminski Publisher Page 6

6 Jeffrey M. Kralik, Ph.D. thedrunkencyclist.com Page 10

10 Steve Kursar Auto Enthusiast Page 18

18 AUTO REVIEW 2023 Lexus ES 20 FORT BEND STRONG

18 The Honorable Pete Olson Contributor Page 20

Fort Bend Women Make Fort Bend Strong!

23 THE SWEET LIFE GARDENER Garlic

Volunteer Darlene Migura, client Skylar Raby riding Whinny, volunteer Barbara Katsenes and instructor Kaitlin Kristiansson.

{Newsworthy} 5

6 REINING STRENGTH THERAPEUTIC HORSEMANSHIP: Putting Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities in the Winner’s Circle

Advocating for individuals with intellectual disabilities is a family legacy for the Hernandez family, and with their commitment in founding Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship, a Premier Accredited Center through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship, International (PATH Intl.), they are continuing their commitment providing equine assisted services for people ages two and up – children and adults – who have physical, cognitive, social or emotional needs. And is this small but mighty organization making a difference in Fort Bend?

You bet they are, and that’s straight from the horse’s mouth.

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9TH ANNUAL “READING BETWEEN THE WINES” Dominique Sachse to Headline Fort Bend Literacy Council’s Fundraising Event March 31st 25TH ANNUAL INVESTMENT IN YOUTH CELEBRATION The George Foundation Celebrates Youth April 19th

16 SUGAR LAND ARTS FEST Ticket Sales Officially Open

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Alisa Murray www.AlisaMurray.com Page 23

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{In Every Issue} 4 EXCLAMATION POINTS! 26 OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART OF THE BEND

{Historic Downtown} 19 ROSENBERG MARCH/ APRIL 2023

Covering Richmond, Rosenberg, Fulshear, Needville & Katy

17 KATY ISD NAMES NEWEST ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS After Youngbloods and Faldyns 22 RAILROADS AND AMERICAN POPULAR MUSIC Debuts at Rosenberg Railroad Museum 24 NATIONAL CHARITY LEAGUE STAR CHAPTER Recognizes Senior Class of 2023

ON THE COVER: Peggy and Tom Hernandez, Richard “RD” Sedillo and Heather HernandezSedillo with equine staff members Iceman and Tinkerbell.

Photo by Kelly Sweet Photography.

MARCH / APRIL 2023 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

5K Run & 1 Mile Walk

Saturday April 1, 2023 No Label Brewery 5351 1st St, Katy, TX

Registration at 7:30am • Run starts at 8:30am-11:30am

Fun for the Whole Family!

5K Run, Food, Beer, Playground, Raffle, Face Painting, Live Music, and more…

Register & Learn more about Annabelle:

www.annabellesamazinggraces.org Contact: shelley@annabellesamazinggraces.org

**All proceeds will go to The Bow Foundation to support research to help find a cure for the GNAO1 mutation**

EXCLAMATION POINTS! Associate Publisher, KAY GARRETT

Spring has Sprung!

Spring showers, windy days, budding trees and flowers bursting with color sprang early this year, and I’m loving it! The fresh air and fragrant smells of Springtime renews my soul, inspires my spirit and brings the wonder of new beginnings into my life. I hope this Spring is an inspiration for your soul and a magical time for renewal as well. Springtime in Fort Bend County is always bursting with activities, and this year is no different. From galas to community fun events, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Our cover featuring Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship (RSTH) is a heartwarming story about a lifelong Kay Garrett, Patti Parish-Kaminski and advocacy for people with intellectual Noell Myska donning hats at Reining disabilities. Co-founded by Tom and Strength’s Derby Day Party 2022. Don’t Peggy Hernandez and their daughter miss this year’s event on Saturday, May Heather Hernandez-Sedillo in 2014, 6th at the Sugar Land Marriott!

RSTH was embraced by the community and has seen phenomenal growth each year. They credit their amazing donors and volunteer base for their success and the community for embracing them. For more information on how to get involved or volunteer, read more on page 6. Fort Bend County is so fortunate to have this nonprofit organization putting individuals with intellectual disabilities in the winner’s circle.

Our Medical Focus section is one not to be missed. There you will find articles from physicians to specialists throughout our community ready to help you with all of your medical needs.

Brazos is buzzing with great happenings this Spring! Mark your calendar now for the Wine Walk in Historic Downtown Rosenberg, or an evening out at the everpopular Fort Bend History Association’s Lone Star Stomp at the George Ranch Historical Park. And, of course, don’t miss the Derby Day Party benefiting Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship on Saturday, May 6th. There truly is something for everyone to enjoy this Spring. I hope to see you all out and about in Brazos!

I’m enjoying this early Spring weather, and I hope you are too! Wishing you a happy Spring, a fun Spring Break and a Blessed Easter!

Absolutely yours,

Vol. 11 No. 2 MARCH/APRIL 2023 281.728.1204 WWW.ABSOLUTELYBRAZOS.COM absolutely! focus media P. O. Box 1253 Richmond, Texas 77406

PUBLISHER Patti Parish-Kaminski A S S O C IAT E P U B L I S H E R Kay Garrett AC C OUNT EXECUTIVE Gena Horak GRAPHIC DESIGN Pamela Printing Company WEB DESIGNER JOBpage Graphics S O C IA L M E D IA M A NA G E R Natalee Moore CONTRIBUTORS Jeffrey M. Kralik, Ph.D. Steve Kursar Alisa Murray The Honorable Pete Olson Patti Parish-Kaminski A D V E RT I S I N G I N Q U I R I E S Kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com E D I T O R IA L S U B M I S S I O N S Patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Kay Garrett kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Attention Brides If you would like to have your wedding considered for our next bridal section, please visit our website at absolutelybrazos.com for submission details. We would love to share your special day!

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MARCH / APRIL 2023 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

NEWSWORTHY

Dominique Sachse to Headline Fort Bend Literacy Council’s Ninth Annual “Reading Between the Wines” The Literacy Council of Fort Bend County is excited to announce Dominique Sachse as the featured speaker at its “Reading Between the Wines” on Friday, March 31st at Safari Texas.

Co-chaired by Helen Bow and Kirin Wells, the event is sponsored by The Fred and Mabel R Parks Foundation. The Literacy Council of Fort Bend County’s signature fundraiser benefits adult literacy education programs and services.

Since 2013, the organization’s event has raised more than $1 million to invest in programs, including English as a Second Language, High School Equivalency/GED Exam Prep and United States Citizenship and Civics courses.

Sponsorship opportunities between $500 to $5,000 are available for “Reading Between the Wines.” The event features a restaurant stroll promoting the best menu items from local chefs and restaurants along with live music, a live auction, super silent auction plus a dessert auction.

A YouTube sensation since 2014, Sachse is currently nearing the 2 million subscriber mark. Sachse passionately creates content for women in their prime to live their best, most beautiful life. She recently retired from her evening news anchor post at KPRC-TV after 28 years to focus on promoting her new book Life Makeover - Embrace The Bold, Beautiful, and Blessed You. For more information about sponsorship and volunteer opportunities for “Reading Between the Wines,” visit the www.ftbendliteracy.org/reading-between-the-wines.

Where Children Learn and Grow

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Featured speaker at the March 31st “Reading Between the Wines” Dominique Sachse.

814 FM 2977 281-239-2110 Richmond www.gbkidsacademy.com twkaminski@sbcglobal.net 77469

COVER STORY

T

Richard “RD” Sedillo, Heather Hernandez-Sedillo, Peggy and Tom Hernandez.

By Patti Parish-Kaminski Photos by Kelley Sweet Photography

hree thousand three hundred volunteer hours. Over 300 clients.

Eighteen equine staff members – the official title for this organization’s valued horse team members – with only five staff instructors, one mental health specialist and 151 volunteer slots to fill each week.

And that’s just one year in review – 2022 – for Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship. This small but mighty organization co-founded in 2014 by the Hernandez family has not only run for the roses toward their goal of serving children and adults in Fort Bend County and the Greater West Houston area with their passion for horses, service and individuals with special needs, they are putting their clients in the winner’s circle with help from one of man’s best friends: horses.

Putting Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities in the

Winner’s Circle Lifelong Advocacy

In 2014, Tom and Peggy Hernandez, along with their daughter Heather Hernandez-Sedillo, co-founded Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship (RSTH). Advocating for individuals for intellectual disabilities was nothing new for the Hernandez family. In fact, one might say it is a Hernandez family legacy.

“Dad has a 60-year-old brother, David, who has an intellectual disability, so my parents and grandparents were lifelong advocates,” shared Heather. “Starting Reining Strength was a natural fit for our family – it’s Granny and Grandpa’s legacy.”

While caring about individuals with physical, cognitive, social or emotional needs was always a part of Heather’s life, she had also always loved horses and that love continued in her professional career.

Her family had a ranch and when the mineral rights on the property gave the Hernandez family an opportunity to do something good, they knew what arena

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Team Reining Strength: Jellybean, Gaby Stephens, Dana Peterson, TJ Hernandez, Heather Hernandez-Sedillo, Richard “RD” Sedillo, Corinna Glueck, Kaitlin Kristiansson and Maxine.

MARCH / APRIL 2023 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

needed their help. Heather, with her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Baylor University and her Master’s in Community Counseling from Texas Tech University, was on faculty in the Animal Science Department at Texas Tech where she served as the Co-Director of the University’s Therapeutic Riding Center.

But there came a moment one day that it became crystal clear that founding an organization to provide equine assisted services was her calling.

“I was at the Waco Center for Youth one day,” shared Heather.

“There was a little boy who had seen his mother commit suicide, and he was suffering from selected mutism.” Selected mutism is an anxiety disorder characterized by a person’s inability to speak.

“The child hadn’t spoken since, and it had been over a year. He snuck away from the group and went into one of the horse’s stalls.

He put his arms around that horse and told him his story. I was just blown away. That horse was the catalyst for him to begin speaking again. I knew right away this is what I wanted to do – to help people with horses. That experience is what sold it for me.”

The Birth of Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship Raised in Fort Bend, Heather returned home to embark on a new journey: founding with her parents, Tom and Peggy Hernandez, a Premier Accredited Center through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship, International (PATH Intl.), to provide equine assisted services for people ages two and up – children and adults – who have physical, cognitive, social or emotional needs. That center became Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship.

Volunteer Allen Carr, client Eddie Knight riding Keke the pony, Equine and Facilities Manager Richard “RD” Sedillo and volunteer Fran Zwick.

RSTH began on FM 359 in Richmond and began to grow rapidly. “The community really embraced us,” said Heather, who serves as Executive Director and credits their growth to their amazing volunteer base. “We rely heavily on volunteers; we have to fill 151 volunteer slots each week. We’ve built an amazing core base with many volunteers who have been here since the very beginning. We have many retired individuals, some stay at home moms, professionals who come after work and some high schoolers. We are also a core placement for Fort Bend Junior Service League, which has been really great helping out day to day but also helping promote us in the community.”

RSTH’s very first volunteer, Fran Zwick, “loves every minute helping at Reining Strength.” And she must because she still volunteers with them nine years later. “I could use my hands to clean house, or I could use them to help someone else. Every time I leave here, my heart is full, and I have a big smile on my face.”

Therapeutic Horsemanship and Equine Assisted Learning

Equine team member Morales with Executive Director Heather Hernandez-Sedillo.

At the time, she was dating a life-long equestrian from New Mexico who was an accomplished trainer in the racetrack industry. She invited Richard “RD” Sedillo to come with her to help realize her dream. “He said yes,” said Heather, who credits RD as a vital part of RSTH as the Equine and Facilities Manager.

“RD is instrumental in training our instructors and students, conditioning our equine staff and keeping them healthy. Because of his veterinary experience, he’s also able to serve as our vet tech, which saves us so much on vet bills.”

By 2017, the Hernandez family relocated their growing organization to their permanent home, 7126 FM 359 Road in Richmond, a process that took several years but was well worth the effort. Today, RSTH provides both therapeutic horsemanship for ages two thru adults to assist with physical and cognitive needs, as well as equine assisted learning, which is all on the ground, not on horseback, but working with the animals.

Heather explained that therapeutic horsemanship assists with a multitude of issues, including individuals with Downs Syndrome, cerebral palsy and Spina Bifida, at risk children and youth and survivors of abuse and trauma. RSTH currently partners with Child Advocates, GiGi’s Playhouse, Houston Methodist Hospital, Park’s Youth Ranch and Arms Wide Post Adoption Services.

“The physical part of therapeutic horsemanship is a horse moves you in three planes: side to side, back-to-back and rotationally,” said Heather. “This works to strengthen the core and helps with balance. Clients who use wheelchairs to hold them up after riding and increasing their core strength can now sit up on their own. That’s life changing because they can now sit up at the table to eat. This translates into daily living skills.”

Horses provide input into the body, which assists with autism. “A horse’s input that is concussive or rough is grounding like a strong hug,” explained Heather. “In children with autism who have sensory overload or meltdowns, these episodes decrease for several days after riding.”

MARCH / APRIL 2023 l

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help them let go, move forward and deal with their symptoms. I admire Methodist for investing in their employees, for seeing a need. This year, the Sugar Land hospital is joining us in the program, and we’re very excited.”

Going for the Gold

Equine team member Morales with client Andres Cortez.

For non-verbal clients, therapeutic horsemanship “ties into the spinal chord and brain.” According to Heather, “The movement primes the body. Moms tell me kids who are non-verbal make sounds the whole way home – babbling away – because they get bi-lateral stimulation to the brain from the horse.”

Equine assisted learning is a ground-breaking program that Heather is excited to offer at RSTH, and it’s a field she knows a little something about having recently co-authored a textbook for the industry. The Comprehensive Guide to Equine-Assisted Activities and Therapies is the first peer-reviewed textbook of its kind, and it’s used in universities across the country including, Texas A & M University and Texas Tech University.

In 2002, RSTH began an equine assisted learning program with Houston Methodist West Hospital nurses as support for nurses and healthcare professionals who had struggled since COVID. A nurse researcher conducted research during the six sessions measuring compassion, fatigue and PTSD, with the data showing improvement. “It was eye opening spending time with the nurses and hearing their stories about all that they experienced through COVID,” said Heather. “Our program provided ways to

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Many barns compete in rodeos and shows in or near their home towns, so why not the riders at RSTH? Until five years ago, the only opportunities for these kids to compete in shows were to travel: Fort Worth, Houston and the area and state Special Olympics.

“RD and I are both Special Olympics Equestrian Coaches, and we take our riders to both Fort Worth and the Houston Livestock and Rodeo Top Hands Horse Show but not everyone can always travel,” said Heather.

Enter long-time volunteer and supporter Noell Myska. “I asked the question, ‘Why can’t these kids rodeo at the Fort Bend County Fair?’”

Myska called on Fair Director Claudia Wright, and the Old 300 Horse Show open to PATH Int’l certified barns was born at the Fort Bend County Fair.

The show classes are based on skill level, and winners receive ribbons and belt buckles. The show is run by about 50 volunteers, and sponsors donate the prizes and lunch.

Myska has helped organize the event every year, a volunteer position she has no plans on passing the reins. “These kids are amazing. I’ve seen doctors tell parents ‘no’ too many times – tell parents their children will never do this or that.

And then I’ve seen these same children prove them wrong after riding a horse.

That’s the magic of Reining Strength.”

Healing Hearts and Hooves While volunteers are at the core of RSTH’s program, their equine staff is their strength and greatest need. “We have 18 equine mouths to feed and care for,” said Heather, who shared the cost of hay went up 30% and grain up 33% per bag in the past year.

One hundred percent of the equine team members are donated, either the horse itself is donated or the funds to purchase the animal is donated. And there is a retirement plan in place for these valued team members. “We have one horse that’s now 22,” shared Heather.

“And they let us know when they are ready to retire.”

Their team ranges from Mikey the miniature horse to Panchita the miniature spotted donkey to Iceman a registered paint and pinto horse, an equine team as diverse as RSTH’s clients.

And while RSTH always needs funds to help care for their valued team members, they also need help spreading the word.

“Our clients come, and they stay,” said Heather. “We hate to turn people away, because we know the health benefits of therapeutic horsemanship, and the value it brings to our community – plus, the value of belonging to something. Our clients tell us ‘I belong to Team Reining Strength – They are my barn family.’ You bet we are.’”

Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship is located at 7126 FM 359 in Richmond. For more information, visit www.ReiningStrength.org or to volunteer, e-mail volunteer@ReiningStrength.org.

Each Derby Day in May, Reining Strength does what all horse lovers do – throws a Derby Day party!

The organization’s only fundraising event, the annual party features all things Derby: a ladies’ hat contest, a men’s boots and bowties contest, a simulcast of the Kentucky Derby, mint juleps, a Derby-sized silent auction, a live auction, a horse game, dinner, a wine and whiskey pull and much, much more!

Don your Derby best and spend the afternoon cheering on your fan fav all while supporting Reining Strength.

Sponsorships range from $500 to $7,500 and tickets are $125. For this year’s Derby Day details and sponsorship opportunities, visit:

MARCH / APRIL 2023 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

www.ReiningStrength.org/derby-day

25th Annual Investment in Youth Celebration The Community Resources Division of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce will host the 25th Annual Investment in Youth celebration on Wednesday, April 19th from 11:30 am to 1 pm at Safari Texas Ranch.

In partnership with The George Foundation, the Youth in Philanthropy (YIP) program brings together juniors and seniors from across Fort Bend County to grow as leaders and experience how nonprofits support our community. Students commit to six Saturdays during the school year to work side-by-side with local nonprofits who strive to make Fort Bend County better. The students then have the opportunity to designate grant awards funded by the Foundation to participating organizations based on the students’ experience and connection to their mission.

This year marks the 25th year impacting students. Nearly 200 students, representing five school districts and 25 high schools served 40 nonprofits while supporting the Fort Bend community during this year’s program. Collectively, these remarkable students provided 7,200 hours of community service, which is a testament to the character of these young men and women.

NEWSWORTHY

As these students embark on their next journey, the community is encouraged to support their higher education goals by contributing to the YIP Scholarships. All scholarship donations will go directly into the scholarship fund distributed to local YIP students. Additionally, scholarship donors and guests of the community are invited to attend this program celebrating students who successfully completed the program. The event expenses are un-

derwritten through the generosity of the Foundation permitting all funds from ticket and table sales to be allocated towards the scholarship fund.

Registration is open and donations are being accepted. Details of upcoming events can be found at www.FortBendChamber.com or contact Juliette Nessmith at 281-566-2161 or juliette@fortbendcc.org.

There’s a destination right around the corner that celebrates

YOU!

March 11 to 18 *Open Monday, March 13

Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center is the ultimate family destination where there’s something new to do and celebrate every day of Spring Break.

Embark on a daily escapade filled with thrills, hands-on activities, shows and interactive performances. Plus, enjoy five galleries of action-packed fun!

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832.742.2800 198 Kempner St., Sugar Land, TX 77498 www.childrensdiscoveryfb.org/event/destination-celebrationww MARCH / APRIL 2023 l

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the drunken cyclist

By Jeffrey M. Kralik, Ph.D.

www.thedrunkencyclist.com

I’ll Be the Judge of That

J

ust about anyone who has lived in this region for longer than a minute knows that the month of March means Rodeo in Houston. Of course, there is much more to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo than just the rodeo events. There are the concerts, the rides, the food and the crowds. There is also, for the last twenty years, the wine. Since 2004, Rodeo Uncorked! International has strived to be one of the finest wine competitions in the United States.

For the past seven years, I have been a judge for the competition, which has grown into one of the largest wine competitions in the world, judging around 3,000 wines every year. The judging for the event occurs in November for the following March’s Rodeo, takes place over three days, and involves hundreds of volunteers, including over 100 judges.

PricewaterhouseCoopers oversees the entire process, which is a “double-blind” competition. Essentially, the judges only know the wines by a four-digit number and the category in which they were entered (e.g., “New World Pinot Noir Under $15” or “Old World Oaked Chardonnay $25-35”). The judges are divided into panels of five and each panel, on average, has 8 to 10 flights each day of 10 to 12 wines per flight, or approximately 100 to 125 wines each day. (It must be noted that judges are required to affirm that they will spit out the wine rather than swallow so as not to become inebriated, and boy, is that important!)

Each judge – the judges are a mixture of wine professionals, journalists and consumers – is tasked with evaluating each wine on its own merits and consider how it represents the category, giving it one of four designations: Gold, Silver, Bronze or No Medal. Briefly, a Bronze medal is awarded to wines that are good, varietally correct and a wine that we would serve, say, at a party or large gathering. A Silver medal should be awarded to those wines that are excellent, wines that you serve for a momentous occasion or when you might be trying to impress. Gold medal wines are those that are so outstanding that you are

tempted to keep it all for yourself and maybe, just maybe share it with a spouse.

No medal? Well, either the wine was mis-categorized, had some inherent flaw, or you simply regretted ever put-

ting in your mouth.

After tasting through the flight individually, the panel then discusses each wine, and the judges declare which medal they have awarded the wine. If all five judges give a wine a “Gold” then it actually receives a “Double Gold.” Yes, I realize that double means “two of something,” and here it is five, but I didn’t make the rules. A relatively straightforward calculation determines the other medals awarded if the group does not come to a consensus (e.g., a wine that receives a gold, three silvers and a bronze is awarded a silver medal).

After all of the medals are determined for a particular category or class, the panel then awards a “Class Champion” and a “Reserve Class Champion” or the best and the second best wines in the category.

But it does not end there.

After all of the categories have been judged, several “Super Panels” are assembled to determine the “best of the best” including the best: White Wine, Red Wine, Value Wine, Texas Wine and Feature Region Wine. This year the feature region was Australia. These flights can be rather imposing. On one of my super panels, we had to choose the five “best” wines from a flight of 65 wines, all of which had already been awarded either a Gold or a Double Gold and included all varieties and price ranges. Yeah, that took a while.

A lot of time and effort goes into the wine competition every year, culminating in the Wine Auction, which was held on February 26th, and with some winners ending up in the Wine Garden during the Rodeo. I strongly recommend popping into the Wine

10 MARCH / APRIL 2023 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Garden as you visit the Rodeo this year, as the menu (https://www.rodeohouston.com/Portals/0/PDFs/2023_WineGarden_Menu.pdf) has a few gems. Here are my suggestions, including the Wine Garden bottle price:

Bubbles: NV Gloria Ferrer, Sonoma Brut, $36.

Always a favorite of mine.

Gold Medal.

Red: 2019 Catena Zapata Malbec, Lujan de Cuyo, $42. A great Malbec at a reasonable price. Double Gold Medal.

Rosé: 2021 DAOU Rosé, Paso Robles, $28.

I love me some pink, and DAOU does a fine job. Double Gold Medal.

Texas Wine: 2019 Becker Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Texas, $42. Chosen as the top all-around winery – no idea how that is determined. Gold Medal.

Chardonnay: 2021 Chalk Hill Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast, $36. One of the first spots in Sonoma for Chard.

Double Gold Medal.

Splurge: NV Le Chemin Du Roi Brut, Champagne, $146. Chosen as the top wine overall in the entire competition! But only received a Gold Medal?

MARCH / APRIL 2023 l

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Advertorial

Medical Focus Health Care N ews You Can Use Houston Methodist Sugar Land Now Offering Incisionless Surgery to Treat Swallowing Issues Patients with a disorder of the esophagus that makes swallowing difficult now have a local option for advanced endoscopic surgery that can provide relief.

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital surgeon Aman Ali, M.D., recently performed the first-ever peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) procedure in Fort Bend County to treat a patient with achalasia, a disorder caused by nerve damage to the esophagus. People with achalasia have difficulty swallowing food and liquids and often will regurgitate undigested food.

Without treatment, achalasia becomes progressively worse and can be life-threatening, because it increases the risk of choking or pneumonia from aspiration of food into the lungs.

The traditional treatment for achalasia is a surgical procedure called Heller myotomy, which involves multiple incisions on the abdomen. The POEM procedure is a non-invasive approach to esophagogastric myotomy, using a flexible endoscope inserted through the mouth into the esophagus. Once in place, the physician makes an incision in the esophageal mucosa, which is the inside layer of the esophagus. Then, through this incision, a submucosal tunnel is created to expose the tight lower esophageal sphincter muscle. The surgeon then cuts this muscle at the lower esophageal sphincter, which is called a myotomy, making it easier for food and liquid to pass through.

“Because we aren’t making incisions to the skin and muscles in the abdomen and chest area, the patient heals more quickly and has less post-operative pain,” Ali said. “It’s a more effective approach to treating achalasia than traditional open Heller myotomy or even minimally invasive laparoscopic Heller myotomy.”

Patients typically spend one night in the hospital and undergo a swallow study before being released.

Ali’s patient for that first procedure was 79-year-old Beatrice Pickard of Friendswood, whose achalasia had progressed to the point where she couldn’t eat or drink anything without vomiting.

“I was really sick, but I was afraid of having surgery,” Pickard said. “When I saw Dr. Ali for the first time, he immediately put me at ease. He really listened to me and didn’t dismiss my symptoms. I felt very comfortable with him, especially because he took the time to explain how the procedure works and what I would experience.”

Pickard’s procedure was successful and following a short hospital stay, she returned home. “I never had any pain of any kind,” she said. “It was easy.”

After surgery, Pickard was on a liquid diet for several weeks and has now progressed to a soft diet. After her next follow-up visit, she expects to be back to eating solid foods.

Prior to the introduction of POEM to Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, patients would have to travel to the Texas Medical Center for the procedure. Now, Ali plans to use POEM to treat both achalasia and another condition called gastroparesis, which affects the stomach’s ability to empty properly.

“This is an advanced treatment that has direct benefits to the patient,” Ali said. “Our operating room and endoscopy teams have worked hard to make it possible for us to offer this procedure here at Houston Methodist Sugar Land, and we plan to utilize it whenever possible to help local patients improve their quality of life.”

Pickard said she would recommend Houston Methodist Sugar Land to anyone who is struggling with achalasia. “Trust your body,” she said. “It’s telling you something is wrong and you need to find someone who can take care of you. If it weren’t for Dr. Ali, I would still be having trouble.”

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Ali, call 281.275.0211.

Visit houstonmethodist.org/sugarland to learn more about Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

Beatrice Pickard and Aman Ali, M.D.

12 MARCH / APRIL 2023 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Medical Focus

Advertorial

Seven Pregnancy Myths and Truths About Pregnancy from OakBend Medical Center Myth: I can now eat for two.

Truth: For the first trimester, you only need an

additional 300 calories a day, and during the second and third trimesters, you only need an extra 500 calories a day.

Myth: It’s okay to have an occasional glass of wine.

Truth: There is no safe amount or type of alcohol

during pregnancy, and even moderate intake can lead to lifelong problems for your baby.

Myth

Myth: Don’t dye your hair.

Truth: Today’s hair dyes have shallow doses of

chemicals, but if you are worried, look for a semi-permanent vegetable dye.

Myth: Don’t exercise.

Truth: You should exercise 20 to 30 minutes per

day, 4 to 5 times per week, but avoid exercises that can lead to falling, such as horseback riding or skiing.

Do not drink coffee.

Myth: Expensive creams can help avoid stretch

is usually fine.

Truth: There is no proof that any cream or oil will

Truth: Small amounts of coffee, like one cup a day, Myth: Do not take a hot bath.

Truth: Make sure the water is not too hot, and

avoid spa baths as they make your temperature rise, which may lead to overheating, fainting or dehydration.

marks.

prevent stretch marks, which most likely will fade in time.

You should know about a few more myths, so make an appointment with your OakBend OB/GYN today. For more information, visit www.oakbendmedcenter.org.

MARCH / APRIL 2023 l

13

Medical Focus

Advertorial

Fort Bend Rheumatology Associates: Specialized Care and Therapies in One Convenient Location For over 17 years, founder and CEO of Fort Bend Rheumatology Associates (FBRA), J. Edward Hernandez, MD, FACR, has specialized in the treatment of autoimmune diseases that affect the muscles, bones, joints, ligaments and tendons – diseases that can cause pain, swelling, stiffness and potentially cause joint deformities. His philosophy of patient-centered care focuses on specialized services in one convenient location, which has led his practice to grow to include two additional board-certified MDs, two Physician Assistants, an inhouse lab, a suite for in-house infusion therapy, two locations and an on-site Physical Therapist.

FBRA’s expert team of medical specialists treat: Ankylosing Spondylitis, Antiphospholipid Syndrome, Giant Cell Arteritis, Gout, Psoriatic Arthritis, Raynaud’s, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Scleroderma, Sjogren’s Syndrome, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Vasculitis.

On-site patient services include Physical Therapy to improve mobility and restore the use of affected joints, specialty labs for in-house blood draws and ultrasound guided joint injections to assist doctors with targeting the precise site of joint pain.

FBRA’s in-house infusion suites offer a comfortable setting to provide immu-

notherapy for various rheumatic diseases and hydration therapy that delivers fluid and vitamins directly into the blood stream via an IV. Several immune boosting, energy increasing, anti-inflammatory and hydration therapies can be administered based on a patient’s needs.

New to FBRA is Dr. Nasha Nensey, a board-certified rheumatologist who recently graduated from the fellowship

program at Baylor College of Medicine.

She joins Dr. Hernandez and Dr. Ryan Valicek.

FBRA is located at 7616 Branford Place, Suite 320 in Sugar Land and 208 Oak Drive South, Suite 100 B in Lake Jackson. For more information or to make an appointment, visit www.FortBendRheumatology.com or call 281.980.1742.

Specialists in Autoimmune Diseases Affecting the Muscles, Bones, Joints, Ligaments & Tendons Treating: • • • • • •

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Ryan Valicek, MD

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Sugar Land Location 7616 Branford Place, Ste 320 281.980.1742

Lake Jackson Location 208 Oak Drive South, Ste 100 B 979.487.2903

14 MARCH / APRIL 2023 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Nasha Nensey, MD

Medical Focus

Advertorial

Houston Methodist Sugar Land: Leading Medicine in Fort Bend and Beyond Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is committed to leading medicine by delivering the Houston Methodist standard of unparalleled quality, safety, service and innovation to patients in Fort Bend County and surrounding areas. With more than 1,000 affiliated physicians and 2,500 employees, Houston Methodist Sugar Land offers access to the most innovative care available, including comprehensive cancer care; neuroscience and spine care; orthopedics and sports medicine; heart and vascular care; women’s services; bariatric and digestive care; and advanced imaging — all backed by a focus on healing people today and offering hope for tomorrow.

Since opening in 1998, Houston Methodist Sugar Land has continually expanded to meet the community’s needs. Today, the campus houses: •

Three patient care pavilions with 347 beds and 27 operating rooms.

•

Three medical office buildings, with a fourth opening this year.

•

Centers of Excellence in cardiology, neurosciences, oncology, orthopedics, urology and women’s services.

Houston Methodist Sugar Land also offers a stand-alone emergency center near Sienna and specialized physician offices throughout Fort Bend County, including primary care offices serving First Colony, Brooks Street, Aliana, Riverstone, Sienna and Rosenberg.

What really sets Houston Methodist Sugar Land apart is its patient-centric operational philosophy, one built on a strong sense of mission and a deeply ingrained commitment to Integrity, Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Excellence – the Houston Methodist I CARE values. These values guide the staff’s daily interactions with patients, family members and each other, as well as provide a strong foundation for their focus on personal, individualized care.

As Fort Bend grows and health care moves forward, Houston Methodist Sugar Land will continue to invest in the community’s health and well-being, ensuring that residents have a first-class choice for medical care.

For more information about Houston Methodist Sugar Land, visit houstonmethodist.org/sugarland or call 281.274.7500 to find a physician near you.

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TO ADVERTISE: call 281.798.4910 or email: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com MARCH / APRIL 2023 l

15

NEWSWORTHY

SUGAR LAND ARTS FEST TICKET SALES ARE OFFICIALLY OPEN! Presented By:

APRIL, 1 &2 st

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The Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation (SLCAF) announces the opening of ticket sales for the second annual Sugar Land Arts Festival (SLAF), presented by PrimeWay Federal Credit Union.

This year’s event will be held on April 1st thru 2nd, at the Smart Financial Centre Plaza, and now is a fantastic opportunity to get limited-time “early bird” online tickets through the official website.

“Early bird” tickets are now available at just $8 each at www.sugarlandartsfest. st already started com. “So, if you haven’t to hear about the Sugar Land Arts Fest, nd get ready!” said Bridget Yeung, Board Member of the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation and Co-Chair of the 2023 Sugar Land Arts Fest. “The $8 ‘early bird‘ tickets are limited in quantity, so get yours before they sell out!” /SugarLandArtsFest The Sugar Land Arts Festival, presented by PrimeWay Federal Credit Union, is a two-day event showcasing @SLArtsFest the cultural and artistic diversity of Sugar Land and beyond, where attendees can experience high-quality visual and performing arts while enjoying handselected wines, delicious food and live music.

The City of Sugar Land is again partnering with the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation to celebrate this second annual event on an even bigger and better level, meaning this arts festival expects to be, one more time, the top event on the region’s calendar.

Sugar Land, Texas is known for hosting some of the best events in the region, and we look forward to you joining us! So, let’s get together and celebrate the arts in Sugar Land. Are you going to join us? We ART excited to see you there!

Be the first to know about entertainment, schedules and more by following the SLAF on social media: @SugarLandArtsFest and subscribe at www.sugarlandartsfest.com.

To get tickets and for more general information, please visit www.sugarlandartsfest. com.

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16 MARCH / APRIL 2023 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Katy ISD Names Newest Elementary Schools After Former Educators

NEWSWORTHY

Katy ISD’s newest elementary schools will soon proudly display the names of four former educators and District leaders.

David and Terri Youngblood were approved as the namesakes for Elementary 45 and Russell and Cindie Faldyn for Elementary 46.

The Youngbloods have been dedicated to the field of education for decades and have demonstrated a passion for students, staff and the community of Katy ISD through a collective 77 years of service.

Throughout his career in Katy ISD, David served as a teacher, a swimming coach and the District’s first diving coach, an assistant principal and associate principal. He also founded the Katy ISD Summer Swimming Recreation Program, which has taught thousands of children in the Katy area how to swim. Terri was hired at Katy High School in 1977 and was instrumental in the development of Katy ISD’s vocational, career and technical curriculum during her 40 years with the program. During her time in Katy ISD, she served as a vocational teacher, Katy High School’s Career & Technical Education (CATE) department chair, and as a sponsor for the Future Business Leaders

of America. Terri also taught ESL classes through Katy ISD’s Community Education Program, as well as summer school.

Likewise, the Faldyn’s have been a fixture in the Katy ISD school community for as long as most can remember. They have contributed a combined 66 years of service to support public education.

A graduate of Katy ISD, Russell’s passion for Katy brought the Faldyns back to his hometown in 1999. During his career in education, Russell served as a teacher, assistant principal, associate principal, hearing officer, elections administrator and the District’s director of community education. In 2017, he accepted the principalship at Miller Career & Technology Center (MCTC), where he supported students in growing their passion and skills for the various careers within our community. During Cindie’s 32 years in public education, she served as a teacher at numerous campuses and as a science instructional coach.

She was recognized as a 2006-2007 Campus Teacher of the Year and was named the first Katy ISD Math Lead Teacher.

Both the Youngbloods and Faldyns continue to be active in the Katy ISD community.

Terri and David Youngblood - Namesakes for Elementary 45.

Cindie and Russell Faldyn - Namesakes for Elementary 46.

Check out Community Events at www.absolutelybrazos.com

Want to know what’s going on in your community?

And list your non-profit Community Event for Free!

E-mail patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com MARCH / APRIL 2023 l

17

absolutely AUTO REVIEW

By Steve Kursar

2023 LEXUS ES

The 2023 Lexus ES is a midsize four-door vehicle that is the best-selling sedan in the luxury carmaker’s lineup. Now, in its seventh generation, the Lexus ES has a dedicated following who continue to remain loyal to the model even as SUVs and crossovers gain in popularity. It’s a testament to the constant redesign and engineering by the Toyota/Lexus team that keeps the ES such a wanted vehicle.

Legend has it that when the Lexus brand was about to launch in 1989 with only the LS 400 sedan in its lineup, dealers demanded a second car to help build the showroom. Lexus quickly pivoted and introduced the ES, essentially an upscale Toyota Camry with many Lexus luxury features. Although it was downplayed by the automotive media for its bland driving characteristics, the ES quickly dominated the midsize luxury segment due to its reliability.

The 2023 Lexus ES has grown into a dynamic driving machine with several variations. A base ES comes with an MSRP price sticker of $42,590 and is powered by a 203 hp, 2.5 liter inline four–cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed transmission.

EPA estimated fuel economy numbers are pretty impressive at 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.

It’s when you move up into the various trims that the 2023 ES avails that you get a real feel on what this car can offer. The ES 350 brings more power under the hood with a 302 hp, 3.5 liter V6 engine that is a mainstay in the Lexus powertrain arsenal. You’ll get a lot more power and sacrifice only a bit on fuel economy getting 22 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. And keeping with Toyota’s leadership in hybrids, there’s a Lexus 300h model that gets terrific gas mileage numbers of 43 mpg city and 44 mpg highway.

The F SPORT design option was introduced on this seventh-generation Lexus ES to appeal to a younger and more diverse buyer looking for more aggressive sedan styling and unmatched performance perfected on the track. It is now offered on all three powertrains.

As with all Lexus models, it’s the interior that continues to draw in buyers with buttery leather and real wood inserts, along with the latest automotive tech. The Lexus Interface multimedia system features the latest display featuring higher resolution and smartphone-like, anti-glare technology.

If you’re shopping for a new luxury sedan, the 2023 Lexus ES is a good place to start.

18 MARCH / APRIL 2023 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

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Fort Bend Women Make

Fort Bend Strong!

Since 1987, every March has been Women’s History Month in the United States. This is a month dedicated to the contributions women have made to society, history and culture. All of us have one woman who should be honored – our mother.

My mother celebrated her 84th birthday last month. She is the best mom ever! She smiled and encouraged me to follow my dreams, even when those dreams appeared a bit crazy. She had a big grin when I told her that I was not going to use my Computer Science degree from Rice University. At the very last minute, I was going to the University of Texas School of Law. Three years later, I announced that I was going to graduate from law school, pass the Texas Bar Exam, and fly warplanes for the U.S. Navy. My mom never flinched.

After four years in the Navy, I married my soulmate, my Romance, my Nancy. Like my mom, Nancy never wavered when I changed our plans. We had been married for seven months when I left for a six-month deployment to the Persian Gulf. I came home expecting a few months of rest and relaxation with Nancy in Hawaii where we were stationed. The Navy had different plans for us – I was ordered to report to Washington, D.C. three weeks after coming home.

Nancy and I were reunited three days before Christmas 1994. After our two children were born, I gave my Romance another surprise – we were moving back to my Texas home so I could run for Congress! I was elected to Congress in 2008 and spent most of twelve years in Washington, D.C., away from Nancy, Kate and Grant. My Romance never faltered. Like my mom, my Nancy’s love for me has always been pure. Whatever success I have had in my life is because of my Nancy and my mom.

We Texans all have a common mother, Jane Long. Jane was given land grants in Fort Bend by the Father of Texas, Stephen F. Austin. On December 21, 1821 at Bolivar Point, she gave birth to possibly the first child born in Texas to an American mother.

She became known as the “Mother of Texas.”

The town of Richmond was built on land Long owned. The Mother of Texas died on December 30, 1880. Befitting Jane Long, the “Mother of Texas’,” the stature of being the grave in Morton Cemetery in “Mother of Texas,” Long Richmond, Texas. is buried in Richmond’s historic Morton Cemetery with a Texas flag proudly flying beside her 24/7/365. The Mother of Texas was Fort Bend Strong!

Arizona Fleming is another Fort Bend woman we all need to celebrate during Women’s History Month. She was born in Richmond on March 3, 1884. An African-American, she grew up in a Fort Bend County where white racists resented former slaves who could now vote and were nearly three times the population.

Black men like Benjamin Franklin Williams and Walter Moses Burton were elected to powerful positions. Enraged, the racists devised a way to stop the black vote. Since the majority of Texans were Democrats, these evil men, called Jaybirds, formed a club to control the Democrat primary elections. They banned African-Americans from participating in Democrat primaries, effectively denying African-Americans a voice in Texas elections. The Jaybirds called themselves a “private club” instead of a “political organization.” This false distinction allowed the racist Jaybirds to freely and openly discriminate against black Americans.

20 MARCH / APRIL 2023 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Willie Melton and Arizona Fleming with attorneys J. Edwin Smith and James Nabritt on the steps of US Supreme Court Building. Photo courtesy of the Fort Bend Museum.

Fleming made it her life’s goal to end this hideous practice. She teamed up with a wealthy black farmer from Kendleton, Willie Melton, to challenge the Jaybirds in federal court. Their case, Terry v. Adams, went to the United States Supreme Court. Flaming WON, 8-1! The personal cost of justice was high. Fleming spent her entire savings to make Texas and America better. She died penniless. Assessing the cause of her poverty, Fleming said, “I’d do it all over again.” Arizona Fleming was Fort Bend Strong!

The Fort Bend County we love would not be that way without Polly Ryon, Lizzie Davis and Mamie George. Polly was Lizzie’s mother, and Mamie was Lizzie’s daughter. Their property on FM 762 had been part of a land grant from Stephen F. Austin. The family became successful farmers and ranchers. That all changed on September 12, 1923

Albert and Mamie George.

when Mamie

and her husband, Albert, were in charge.

Oil was discovered on their Fort Bend Ranch. Their wealth grew dramatically.

Mamie and Albert died with no heirs.

Their only child died as an infant, and the niece who lived with them died in an automobile crash. They used their pain of loss to make Fort Bend County strong; they created The George Foundation “for the use and benefit of the people of Fort Bend County.” To date, The George Foundation has given us $270 million.

That’s Fort Bend Strong.

I never chatted with anyone who knew Jane Long, Arizona Fleming, Polly Ryon, Lizzie Davis or Mamie George. I have been blessed to talk with people who knew Fort Bend heroes Anne Sullivan and Sonal Bhuchar. Anne was killed fighting a fire in Houston on May 31, 2013. Four firefighters died with her, making it the worst day in the history of the Houston Fire Department. She lived her entire life in Fort Bend. I knew her mom, Mary, who was the nurse at the intermediate school both of my kids attended. Anne was 24 years old when she left us.

The mural in the foyer at Anne McCormick Sullivan Elementary School.

Shortly after that horrific day, Mary and I worked toward a common goal – to have an elementary school named after Anne. Anne McCormick Sullivan Elementary School opened in 2016.

The entry foyer at Anne’s school is a museum of her life. Check out the mural of Anne, a fire truck, an adult Dalmatian and two Dalmatian puppies. If you look closely at the adult Dalmatian, one of its spots is shaped like a heart.

My dear friend, Sonal, was 58 yearsyoung when she lost a gallant fight

Sonal Bhuchar. against cancer. She was a trailblazer in Fort Bend County. Sonal was from Mumbai, India. She came to Texas with her husband, Subodh, in 1984. That’s when she took over and made Fort Bend County better. Her life was devoted to our children. She was elected to the Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees and served six years on the Board. She was the Board President for two years. While on the Board, she pushed through several initiatives like the Student Leadership Program, the Legislative Advocacy Program and the International Festival. She helped children who had been abused with her involvement in Child Advocates of Fort Bend. I remember Sonal’s joy of life and infectious smile. She spent nearly two hours at our home helping Nancy get dressed in formal Indian clothing for a traditional Indian wedding. Sonal and Anne made us and continue to make us Fort Bend Strong!

Who do you know from Fort Bend that we should honor, celebrate and remember during Women’s History Month?

Please let me know – pete@absolutleyfocusmedia.com. I may include your honoree in one of my Fort Bend Strong columns.

MARCH / APRIL 2023 l

21

NEWSWORTHY

New Limited-Time Exhibition Railroads and American Popular Music With the new year comes a new limitedtime exhibition for the Rosenberg Railroad Museum (RRM) titled Railroads and American Popular Music. This exhibition is the first to be created by the Museum’s new Curator, Jesse Otto, Ph.D., and is set to replace the beloved Lionel Model Train Exhibit that has been in place since October of last year. An official exhibit opening took place on Saturday, February 11th, 2023.

The first three panels of this exhibition examine the various ways that railroads have shaped American popular music. The fourth panel tells the story of Huddie Ledbetter’s experience with railroads in Fort Bend County leading to the creation of a classic American song. The final part of the exhibition consists of 16 small panels detailing the TV show Soul Train along with 15 railroad themed American songs.

Ornamental Iron • Wood • Chain Link

Jesse Otto holds an MA in History from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, and in 2021, he earned a Ph.D. in American Studies from the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa. His graduate work focused on music industry history along with museum studies and historic preservation. He joined RRM in August 2022 and is excited be part of the team.

The Railroads and American Popular Music Limited-Time Exhibition will be on display until the end of October 2023. For more information, visit:

www.rosenbergRRmuseum.org/limited-time-exhibit

281.238.0735 www.Apache-Fence.com

The Rosenberg Railroad Museum is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the preservation and education of railroading in Fort Bend County.

22 MARCH / APRIL 2023 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Garlic H

ey Sweet Lifers! I don’t think there’s anyone except my great Aunt Melda Lee who doesn’t like garlic. I shared a recipe with her years ago for my collards, and I had barely gotten garlic out of my mouth as one of the ingredients when she twisted up her face and grimaced! I know many people steer clear of using garlic for fear of smelling like it, but the benefits of this herb far outweigh the occasional “perfume” left in its aftermath.

Garlic was believed to have first appeared in central Asia and then spread worldwide. It has been cultivated since antiquity and can no longer be found as a wild species. Today the heirloom varieties are all the rage, and the levels of intensity are anywhere from mild to very pungent. Garlic is part of the lily family along with onions, leeks, shallots and chives.

Medicinally, garlic is one of those herbs that every garden needs and every medicine cabinet should have. It was used during the bubonic plague and during World War I as a poultice that saved many soldiers’ lives. It has an antibiotic effect, as well as the ability to stimulate the immune system. For this reason, it is excellent in both treating infections, as well as boosting our bodies. The components of garlic are volatile oils, selenium, scordinin, vitamins A, B, C, E and allicin. When taken regularly, it acts as an anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, blood pressure regulator and fever breaker. Because of these responses, garlic is used to treat high blood pressure, assist in

By Alisa Murray www.alisamurray.com

Type 2 Diabetes, to clear infections, particularly of the ear, nose throat and lung, and fungal skin issues. The herb also beaks down clots and adds protection for and assists in the treatment of cancers of the stomach and colon. It packs a big punch!

Culinarily speaking, I cannot imagine cooking without it.

Garlic added to just about everything makes it so much better!

From eggs for breakfast to toast with soup for lunch to infused aioli with fried artichoke hearts, oh how garlic makes my tastebuds sing! To be honest, I don’t think there is one main recipe that I cook without it.

Garlic is also very easy to grow. Separate the cloves, dig a hole about two inches deep and place five to six inches apart.

Cover with soil and water, and soon you’ll see the green stems shoot right up. It can be harvested, and the cloves can be dried to use in cooking year round. What’s more your roses will love you for planting garlic near them. One year I had a bag of cloves that were already peeled, and they had started to go bad, so I tossed them out into the garden under my roses, and they started blooming! Snakes hate the smell, too, so if you’ve got a snake slithering around, a sprinkle here and there will send those guys sliding onto some one else’s yard!

My favorite ways to utilize garlic medicinally is to make a little oil and rub on the bottom of my feet. First, peel several cloves, smash them and let stand for 10 to 15 minutes. On the stove top, place a cup of olive oil and the cloves, and let them steep for 30 minutes. Cool and then place on the feet wrapping them twice with socks overnight. This will help break up any mucus and start the antibiotic properties of fighting infection.

My favorite way to eat garlic is to take a giant head and slice the top off, sprinkle with a dash of salt, top with a large pat of butter and wrap in foil. Place in the oven for 30 minutes until soft. Squeeze the creamy cloves out of the husk, spread on toast points and add either smoked salmon or a dollop of cream fraise and caviar. Delicious!

I do hope you’ll consider adding garlic as one of your go to herbs in your garden, and at the very least, include it in your daily diet. Not only will you find your dishes to be tastier, but your heart and immune system will thank you, too!

Keep on growing!

MARCH / APRIL 2023 l

23

National Charity League, Inc., Star Chapter Recognizes Senior Class Of 2023 For Achievements On Sunday, February 19th, National Charity League (NCL), Inc., Star Chapter presented the Senior Class of 2023 at its annual Senior Recognition Ceremony. This formal event included family and friends, dinner and dancing and took place at The Westin Houston. The evening honored each of the eighteen members of the graduating class for their accomplishments and their contributions to our community.

“The Class of 2023 has completed a six-year program designed to foster the mother-daughter relationship through active community service and instill a sense of compassion and drive to serve those in need within our community,” said Jackie Lanier, NCL, Inc., Star Chapter President. Over the past six years, these young ladies, alongside their mothers, have contributed over 3,500 volunteer hours at 35 local charities, including The Westview School, Neighborhood KidZ Club, Citizens for Animal Protection (CAP), Interfaith Ministries (Meals on Wheels), The Ballard House, Katy Christian Ministries (KCM), Fort Bend Women’s Center, The Krause Center, The Monty Ballard YMCA, Brookwood, Willow River Farms and Texas Children’s Hospital.

In addition to serving their community through volunteering, these young ladies were honing their leadership skills by holding various board or liaison positions within the chapter, organizing class retreats as well as planning and leading annual

NEWSWORTHY

chapter-wide social and philanthropy events, including: Holiday Philanthropy Fair, Mother-Daughter Tea and even hosting last year’s Senior Recognition of the Class of 2022. They have also been expanding their cultural awareness by attending the ballet, the symphony, the opera and musical theater.

“The last two years presented its own unique set of challenges with the pandemic. Volunteering and meetings were different; however, the girls continued to fulfill their responsibilities and seemed to have a greater appreciation for their involvement once restrictions were eased, and they were able to get out in the community once again. It has been a privilege and a pleasure to watch the girls grow into confident, young adults. We are very proud of them and who they have become.

Whatever they choose to do, we know they will be prepared to serve, lead, and be successful,“ Jackie Lanier, NCL, Inc. Star Chapter President, said.

The seniors honored were: Amy Abke, Taylor Burke, Caroline Chapman, Lauren Dorsett, Sarah Drury, Kennedy Hatten, Emily Johnson, Brett Ashton Kelley, Ellery Kovacs, Grace Lanier, Racquel McCauley, Tanvi Patel, Abigail Patton, Sophie Prothro, Brynn Smith, Kaelyn Sweeney, Marie Wadlington, Diane Weber.

The Star Chapter wishes these accomplished young women great success in their future endeavors!

First Row: Abigail Patton, Grace Lanier, Taylor Burke, Caroline Chapman Second Row: Brynn Smith, Emily Johnson, Sophie Prothro, Kennedy Hatten Third Row: Sarah Drury, Ellery Kovacs, Kaelyn Sweeney, Tanvi Patel, Marie Wadlington, Lauren Dorsett, Racquel McCauley Fourth Row: Amy Abke, Brett Ashton Kelley, Diane Weber Photo by: Kim Schaffer Photography

24 MARCH / APRIL 2023 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

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OF BRAZOS

Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) members Kelsea Lake, Jennifer Semeyn, Barbara Marlin and Jessica Gregory presented a $1,000 Community Assistance Fund (CAF) grant to the Creative Dreams Outreach Center. Creative Dreams was awarded the grant to help provide meals to students in Fort Bend County. The organization accepts financially disadvantaged and foster youth ages 13-18. They provide opportunities for free mentoring, academic tutoring and lessons in art, dance and music. In addition, Creative Dreams Outreach Center provides clothing, hygiene products and a hot meal every night to students in need.

Bingo and wine is always a hit at Rosenberg’s BR Vino on the second Thursday of each month. Cheers to a good time or should we say BINGO!

Fort Bend County Commissioner Vincent Morales, Precinct 1, and Patti Parish-Kaminski at the inaugural Ultimate “Tailgate” Party benefitting the Homeless Pet Placement League. Two hundred guests attended the event that raised over $40,000.

Congratulations to chairs Eileen Akerson, Vivian Douglas and Vicki Stevenson and entire the “Tailgate” committee!

Alisa Calabrese, Bruce and Vicki Stevenson, Kim Feldhoff and Wanda Kolkhorst.

26 MARCH / APRIL 2023 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Cindy Bilski, Lynn Shimek, Nancy Esparza, Kathy Lubbeck and Kay Garrett.

It’s rodeo time! The Lamar/Needville Go Texan Metro Committee’s 30th Annual Boot Scootin’ Ball was held at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds benefitting scholarships for youth in the Lamar and Needville ISD. The Ball featured dinner, both live and silent auctions and a dance with music by the Horizon Band. It was a boot scootin’ good time for a good cause!

Enjoying the ball were Tarang and Vicki Patel, Tommy and Rhonda Kuykendall, Rose Herbst, Dustin Vacek, Alicen Swift, LeAnn and Wagus Kurjee and Laura and Rob Thompson.

Amy and Larry Amacker.

Michelle and David Koerth.

Kelley and AJ Martinez with Noell Myska.

Kay and Jim Garrett.

Kim and David Feldhoff.

Bruce and Vicki Stevenson.

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