April 2016 - Absolutely Brazos Magazine

APRIL 2016

Specialized Care Close to Home:

OakBend’s ACE Unit

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CONTRIBUTORS

Trish Johnson Contributor Page 8

APRIL 2016

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VOLUME 4

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NUMBER 5

8 Myles Mellor Contributor Page 22

22 Joan Frances Contributor Pages 24 & 48

24 Steve Kursar Auto Enthusiast Page 28 The common area of OakBend Medical Center’s ACE Unit.

COVER STORY 8 OAKBEND MEDICAL CENTER’S ACE UNIT: Providing Specialized Care for Our Elderly – Close to Home Fort Bend County’s only Acute Center for the Elderly (ACE) Unit for patients 65 and older helps alleviate the stress that comes with health care issues for patients and their families. The unit’s highly skilled staff, warm atmosphere and group physical therapy provides patients with an environment conducive to healing.

12 TICKETS ON SALE FOR 4TH ANNUAL READING BETWEEN THE WINES Benefiting Literacy Council of Fort Bend County

23 KEY REALTORS

11 HATS AND HOOVES

Health Care News You Can Use

40 TEXAS ROAD TRIPS

The Lone Star State has plenty of destinations suitable for the whole family. Fun is just a short road trip away!

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Will Be Blazing on May 7th

16 GET READY TO DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY

2016 Classic Boogie Prom Night Fundraiser Benefiting the Fort Bend Women’s Center

COLUMNS 24 HIGH SCHOOL HOT SHOT Meet Sarah Nguyen

18 4TH ANNUAL CHILDREN’S ART WALK

38 KIDS’ CORNER

20 WILD WEST BREW FEST

48 A LITTLE PIECE OF HISTORY

Hosts Children’s Art Contest

22 TANK SCHOTTLE LOSES 83 POUNDS

Through Special Olympics Texas Programming

25 FORT BEND AGGIE MOMS’ CLUB Raises Funds for Student Scholarships

Meet the Finest in Brazos

29 MEDICAL FOCUS

Patrick Biron Birons Youth Sports Center Page 38

NEWSWORTHY

Set to Impress While Giving Back

F E AT U R E S

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39 5TH ANNUAL RUN TO ATTACK POVERTY

5K and Kid K Presented by OakBend Medical Center

BRAIN TEASER 22 IT’S SPRINGTIME!

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Co-Dependency: Affluenza Explained

The Legacy, The Legend, The Texas Cowboy

absolutely!

AUTO REVIEW 28 2016 TOYOTA TACOMA

IN EVERY ISSUE 6 EXCLAMATION POINTS! 14 SEEN ON THE SCENE 26 COMMUNITY EVENTS 42 OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART OF BRAZOS 47 COMMUNITY MARKETPLACE

EXCLAMATION POINTS! THE INSIDE SCOOP STRAIGHT FROM THE TOP Publisher, PATTI PARISH-KAMINSKI

Road Trips and the Wisdom of Care Like clockwork, each April our kids ask us the following question: What are we doing for summer vacation? You would think by now – knowing the query was coming – we would have a definitive answer prepared, but alas, the question always prompts much in depth and at times, heated, discussion. There have been many summers when traveling our great state was our vacation, and Texas never disappoints. This summer, Texas has Patti Parish-Kaminski and so many options, and we are sharing a few in Texas Stacey Sembrick enjoying LEAF Foundation’s Men Who Cook.

Road Trips on page 40. And remember, while you are out and about on vacation this summer, be sure to take a picture and send it to us. We’d love to hear about your family vacay.

If sticking close to home is more your speed this year, we can help. From Reading Between the Wines for wine lovers to the Wild West Brew Fest for beer lovers to the Run to Attack Poverty for our friends who run, there’s plenty going on in our area. We hope to see you while we are out and about enjoying all that our amazing community has to offer.

Fortunately for us, a plethora events and activities are not the only thing unique about our community. One of the most amazing – and unique – facilities our community boasts is OakBend Medical Center’s new ACE Unit. The only Acute Care for the Elderly (ACE) Unit in Fort Bend, the dedicated staff of the ACU Unit is making a huge difference in the lives of our most valued community members.

Tim and I have had the privilege of visiting and supporting the unit – we’ve even had a couple of friends recover there – and we couldn’t be prouder to have this facility caring for our elders right here in our community.

Theologian and philosopher Abraham J. Heschel said, “A test of a people is how it behaves toward the old. It is easy to love children. Even tyrants and dictators make a point of being fond of children. But the affection and care for the old, the incurable, the helpless are the true gold mines of a culture.” Thanks OakBend for your wisdom and dedication helping make our community a gold mine of care for our older members.

Absolutely! yours,

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PUBLISHER Patti Parish-Kaminski M A NA G I N G E D I T O R Sarah Bearden SENIOR AC C OUNT EXECUTIVE Jessica Kij AC C OUNT EXECUTIVES Jennifer Elliott Molly Ellis Kay Garrett Andrea Rigamonti Suzanne Stiles A RT D I R E C T O R Grace Belleza GRAPHIC DESIGNER Marinela Taylor WEB DESIGNER Joey Belleza PHOTOGRAPHER Mary Favre CONTRIBUTORS Patrick Biron Joan Frances Trish Johnson Steve Kursar Myles Mellor O F F I C E A D M I N I S T R AT O R Alexa Goldstein INQUIRIES 281-690-4242 E D I T O R IA L S U B M I S S I O N S Sarah@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

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ON THE COVER: Ashley Valdez, Dr. Owen Capocyan and Joe Freudenberger.

Photo by Mary Favre.

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absolutely! Brazos Magazine is published by absolutely! focus media, 4655 Techniplex Dr., Ste. 700, Stafford, TX 77477. Copyright © 2016 by absolutely! focus media. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. absolutely! Brazos Magazine does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial, nor do the publishers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. absolutely! Brazos Magazine welcomes editorial submissions from its readers.

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COVER STORY

By Trish Johnson Photos by Mary Favre

ACE Unit: Providing Specialized Care for Our Elderly – Close to Home Dr. Owen Capocyan with patient Velma Bernard and Cyril Amoin, RN.

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llness, medical traumas and surgeries create stress and take a physical and emotional toll not only on patients, but on

the families of patients as well. Add into the mix that your loved one is elderly, and the situation can become even more complex. Physicians agree that for elderly patients and their families, the physical and emotional stress related to health care issues is often intensified.

To help alleviate that stress, Fort Bend County’s OakBend Medical Center has opened the only Acute Care for the Elderly (ACE) Unit in the county. Opened in December 2014 and located on the third floor of OakBend Medical Center at 1705 Jackson Street, the unit cares for patients 65 years and older, who at an initial assessment in either the admitting offices or in the emergency room, can benefit from the ACE Unit, according to OakBend’s Dr. Owen Capocyan. “When we assess patients,” Capocyan explained, “we are screening for cognitive function, depression and the amount of activity involved in their daily living.”

Specialized Care

Patient Howard Cameron working with therapist Stacey Smith.

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A board certified family practice physician with fellowship training in geriatrics, as well as experience in hospice and palliative care, Capocyan is a native of the Philippines where

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he attended the University of Santo Tomas in Manila. After coming to the United States in 2000, he completed his residency at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Odessa, Texas, where he also trained in geriatrics.

“With the ACE Unit,” Capocyan said, “our goal is to have our patients in the hospital for 3.5 or fewer days, 40 percent shorter than on average for the elderly. The ACE Unit helps us preserve or even improve physical and cognitive functionality in the elderly during their stay.”

According to Capocyan, each weekday morning begins with a meeting of a geriatrician, pharmacist, nutritionist, speech therapist, nurse and case manager or social worker.

“We assess each patient’s physical function and mental state, as well as their medications. We go over their doctor’s orders, and if necessary, make recommendations to their doctor.”

The OakBend unit has been named a NICHE (Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders) site recognizing OakBend’s ongoing commitment to geriatric nursing care, and because the unit is dedicated to the elderly, the staff have advanced their skills to the highest level to provide specialized care to the elderly patients in the community.

Ashley Valdez, RN.

The common area of OakBend Medical Center’s ACE Unit.

A Unique Healing Environment As Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of OakBend Medical Center, Joe Freudenberger participates in the continuum of care for this special population by keeping his finger on the pulse of the ACE Unit. “As the only unit of its kind in Fort Bend County, the ACE Unit is specifically designed with the elderly in mind to engage patients and their families in the healing process by providing a warm, optimistic environment resulting in better outcomes.”

Design features of the unit, Freudenberger noted, include non-glare, wood-look flooring in place of the traditional shiny tile to help eliminate the fear of slipping and to encourage patients to get out of bed and move around the unit. Additionally, contrasting tiles in the floor near walls and other obstacles also give patients more confidence while walking through the unit.

“The entire floor is designed to make the elderly feel more comfortable and to speed their recovery,” said Capocyan. “We have the family living room, where patients can visit with their families outside of their hospital rooms, and their families can be involved in their care. We have designed the lights specifically for older eyes, because visual perception in the elderly is different from that of younger patients. The furniture is lower, which provides a level of comfortability for the elderly and also helps to prevent falls.”

With a communal dining room on the unit, patients are encouraged to get out of their beds and interact with others three times a day, including with friends and family. “The recommendation is for patients to be out of their beds at least one hour a day,” Capocyan said. “Even if they spend a half hour out of their beds for each meal, that means the patients will be out of their beds for 1.5 hours a day.”

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Preparing for the Future

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akBend Medical Center CEO Joe Freudenberger, who holds an MBA in Finance from Tulane University, explains the success of the hospital’s Acute Care for the Elderly (ACE) Unit as a result of careful planning and operation.

“Down to the smallest detail, the ACE Unit was designed with the elderly in mind,” he said, pointing out a few of the fine details incorporated into the unit’s design: Dr. Owen Capocyan and OakBend Medical Center CEO Joe Freudenberger.

“Another feature that aids in the healing process is group physical therapy,” added Freudenberger. “This therapy is conducted multiple times each day in the unit’s common area.

This space has an open floor plan and offers multiple seating areas around a central fireplace, television and aquariums.

The social aspect of this activity is very important as it promotes optimism, which engages the patients and ultimately leads to better outcomes.”

Positive Outcomes With three double-occupancy rooms and seven single-occupancy rooms, the ACE Unit is at capacity at 13 patients, Freudenberger said. “Since we opened, the ACE Unit has operated at near capacity. At times, we have a waiting list of patients waiting for a room to become available.

“Patient response to the ACE Unit has been overwhelmingly positive,” Freudenberger added. “We’ve received many comments about the care our patients received while here and what an impact the environment makes. Family and friends who visit the unit have an equally positive response.”

And it’s not just the patients who are singing the praises of OakBend’s ACE Unit. “We received a great compliment from The Joint Commission during their most recent accreditation visit,” shared Freudenberger. “The surveyors praised the ACE Unit for creating an environment that is the most conducive to healing.”

Freudenberger cited a testimonial from former Rosenberg Mayor Vincent M. Morales, Jr. in which Morales said, “I spent nine days in the ACE Unit at OakBend. From the minute I arrived, everyone was so nice and extremely helpful. I saw many patients come and go during my time there, and they treated everyone like that. Thanks to OakBend, I was able to get early treatment, which has helped me get to where I am today. It’s a blessing that we have a quality, communityminded hospital so close to home.”

“I’m confident we’ll continue to grow,” Capocyan said of the ACE Unit. “This unit is something I would never have dreamed I would be able to work in. I’m really excited about our results and our future.”

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Nurse’s station lowered to desk level, encouraging patient engagement and family involvement.

Indirect lighting replacing fluorescent lighting, providing a softer, warmer environment.

Patient dining area where families may join patients for meals.

Group physical therapy several times daily in common area.

Fireplace and aquariums in common area providing a warm, inviting space for families to visit with their loved one.

Warm, wood-look flooring instead of stark, shiny, slippery tile.

NICHE staff designation, for Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders.

According to Freudenberger, an expansion of the ACE Unit is included in the hospital’s Vision 2020 Capital Campaign.

The expansion will provide for six additional patient rooms, increasing the capacity by almost 50 percent.

Vision 2020 will also take the signature concepts of the ACE Unit throughout other patient areas of the hospital, including the Emergency Center, Medical/Surgical floors and the Skilled Nursing facility. The projects included in Vision 2020 will bring the most advanced concepts for a healing environment to OakBend, creating a space that inspires optimism, encourages healing and provides the highest quality healthcare for the people of Fort Bend County.

Brittany Phillips and Jacob Diaz.

OakBend Medical Center is committed to serving the residents of Fort Bend County and surrounding communities at all locations, which include three hospitals, four emergency centers, five outpatient imaging centers, six outpatient surgery departments and 12 physician offices at six convenient locations throughout the county and surrounding areas.

For more information, visit oakbendmedcenter.org or call 281-341-3000.

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NEWSWORTHY

Hats and Hooves Will Be Blazing on May 7th The second annual Derby Day Party will be held on Saturday, May 7th at Safari Texas. Funds raised from the event will benefit Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship, a 501(c)3 organization, and its programming for individuals with special needs.

The Reining Strength team estimates that over 90,000 Fort Bend County residents could benefit from therapeutic horsemanship programming. The services are appropriate for people of all ages with a wide variety of common diagnoses, including anxiety, autism spectrum disorders, cerebral palsy, CVA or stroke, Down syndrome, intellectual and learning disabilities, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury and many others.

“We have developed special relationships with local physical therapy groups and the Boys and Girls Club of Fort Bend County. Clients from each of these diverse audiences have unique and specific needs that a therapeutic horsemanship program can effectively address,” said Heather Hernandez, M.Ed., executive director of Reining Strength. “Recently, a therapeutic riding client’s mother was sharing with us how impressed she was that for the first time, her sevenyear-old son is able to sit up on his own in a chair and stand upright while walking. Both she and the child’s therapists attribute this success to riding.”

The second annual Derby Day Party marks a new tradition the organization seeks to build upon as it grows and further establishes its roots in Fort Bend County, having celebrated their first anniversary as a 501(c)3 in December 2015.

For tickets and more information, visit www.reiningstrength.org.

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Mary Karr, Ph.D. Award-Winning Memoirist and Poet

Tickets on Sale for 4th Annual

Reading Between the Wines Benefiting Literacy Council of Fort Bend County

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ne of the most anticipated Fort Bend fundraisers of the year, the 4th Annual Reading Between the Wines benefiting the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County, returns to Richmond’s Safari Texas Ranch on Friday, April 1st at 6:30 pm.

Presented by The Fred and Mabel R. Parks Foundation, this year’s Reading Between the Wines will feature New York Times best-selling memoirist and poet Mary Karr, Ph.D. While at Reading Between the Wines, literary and wine enthusiasts will enjoy presentations from acclaimed authors, a generous selection of outstanding wines and expertly prepared cuisine from local restaurants and caterers.

Individual tickets for Reading Between the Wines are $125 and can be purchased at www.ftbendliteracy.org. Sponsorship packages including reserved seating, select bottles of wine, meet and greet and photo opportunity with Karr and more also can be purchased at the website and are available starting at $500.

Proceeds from Reading Between the Wines, co-chaired by Helen Bow and Gena Horak, will benefit the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County. For 28 years, the organization has strived to fill gaps in literacy services for those in need, have the capability to learn and the desire to move forward in life.

For more information, contact Nicola Johnson at 281-240-8181 or at njohnson@ftbendliteracy.org.

The planning committee for this year’s Reading Between the Wines: Sonal Bhuchar, Mike Dacey, Mary Gayle Brindley, Cynthia Bartholomew, Nicola Johnson, Pat Hebert, Kelli Metzenthin, Lawren Eckhardt, Gena Horak, Helen Bow and Nancy Olson.

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Mary Karr, Ph.D., an award-winning poet and New York Times best-selling memoirist, will be the featured author at Reading Between the Wines. She is the author of the critically acclaimed, best-selling memoirs The Liars’ Club, Cherry and Lit. Her latest book, The Art of Memoir, is a master class on the fastest-growing literary genre. A television series based on The Liars’ Club and Lit is in development with Showtime starring Mary Louise Parker as Karr and produced by Sarah Timberman.

In Karr’s The Art of Memoir talks, she brings a wealth of knowledge that comes from teaching literature and writing for nearly three decades and writing three critically acclaimed memoirs that are routinely named as the best in the genre. Anchored by excerpts from her favorite memoirs and anecdotes from fellow writers’ experience, she lays bare her own process.

The Liars’ Club won prizes for best first nonfiction from PEN (The Martha Albrand Award for nonfiction), the Texas Institute for Letters and was a finalist for The National Book Critics Circle Awards. It chronicled her hardscrabble Texas childhood with enough sass and literary verve to spark a renaissance in memoir, cresting the New York Times best-seller list for more than a year.

Cherry, her ecstatically reviewed account of a psychedelic adolescence and a moving sexual coming-of-age, followed it into best-sellerdom. Hailed as “the memoir of the season,” Lit chronicles Karr’s brazen battle into adulthood, taking readers on a journey into awe while tracing her search for the solid family she never had.

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Seen on the Scene Mission of Love Honoring Reverend Drew Wood Benefiting Catholic Charities’ Fort Bend Services February 4, 2016 • Sugar Land Marriott

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Anna Marie Raun & Linda Drummond Sharon & John Harry Jack & Arlene Kluepfel Jessica Kij & Gladys Brumfield Jose & Adriana Vega Cheryl & Don Brady Marlene & Al Sander Rubin & Melissa Alvarez Nieves & Veronyka Gonzalez 9

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Summer Camp Registration Begins April 1st

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Conveniently Located Near:

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GREATWOOD SUBDIVISION

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NEWSWORTHY

Seen on the Scene It’s a Musical Kind of Night Hollywood Style!

Benefiting the Fort Bend Boys Choir of Texas February 6, 2016 • Safari Texas Ranch Lodge

Get Ready to Dance the Night Away at 2016 Classic Boogie Prom Night Fundraiser Benefiting the Fort Bend Women’s Center

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Vita Goodell, Ray Aguilar, Della Leonard, Don Kerstetter and Carolyn Silva dressed and ready for Boogie 2016.

Pull out the powder blue suits, bell bottoms and big hair for Classic Boogie 2016 Prom Night presented by Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land and benefiting the Fort Bend Women’s Center. Mark your calendar for Saturday, April 2nd and boogie the night away at the Stafford Centre from 6 to 11 pm.

Boogie 2016 highlights include live music by THE FAB 5 Band, which was recognized as the Best Cover/Tribute Band award winner five years in a row, amazing silent and live auctions, a Texas-style barbecue brisket and chicken dinner and desserts provided by Another Time Soda Fountain of Rosenberg.

Fort Bend Women’s Center and the Classic Boogie 2016 Committee are grateful for the generosity of this year’s current sponsors: Presenting Sponsor Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land, Tuxedo Sponsors Exchange Club of Sugar Land and Slimdrill International and Ball Gown Sponsor Geospace Technologies. Corsage Sponsors include absolutely! focus media, Allen Boone Humphries Robinson LLP, AOI/Andre Orban and Mindy Gross, Bud Light/Silver Eagle Distributors, the City of Stafford, CommunityBank of Texas, Early McClintic & McMillan LLP, HCSS, Houston Federal Credit Union, Kroger, Old Main Street Bakery, the Roberta K. Randall Charitable Foundation and Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey.

Please join in support of the Fort Bend Women’s Center. Individual tickets are $75 and can be purchased online at www.fortbendwomenscenter.org/get-involved. For sponsorship opportunities and more information, contact Angela Parker at amparker@fortbendwomenscenter.org or 281-344-5750.

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Jason & Tama Keller John & Diana Null Eric Mortimer Bonnie Bell, Alan Ligh & Julia Keenan Simon & Lani Leech Gustavo Volpi & Chin Wen Su Alexa Goldstein & Sarah Bearden Terri & Matt Cannon Saji & Reena John 9

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Seen on the Scene 11th Annual Road Trip Through the Wild Wild West Benefiting Fort Bend Cares

4th Annual Art Walk Hosts Children’s Art Contest

February 6, 2016 • The Flour Building

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Artist Terrye Philley.

Calling all Fort Bend County students! Arts Fulshear is hosting a Children’s Art Contest in conjunction with the 4th Annual Art Walk on Saturday, April 23rd from noon to 5 pm at Cross Creek Ranch in Fulshear. Artwork entries must reflect the theme “What I Love about Texas” and may include both 2-D and 3-D representations, including 2-D acrylic, charcoal, collage, crayon, mosaic, oil pastel, chalk pastel, pencil, pen and ink, watercolor, mixed media and photography. Three-dimensional entries may include wire, ceramics, soap carving, wood sculptures and mixed media.

Contest entrants must be residents of Fort Bend County or be zoned to a Fort Bend County school. Students may submit individual entries, or teachers may submit as many as 10. Submissions will be displayed at the 4th Annual Art Walk. The Art Walk will offer inclusive opportunities such as art demonstrations, hands-on art activities, a children’s art contest and several different musical and visual performances throughout the day. In addition, the Art Walk will have a great selection of food truck and winery offerings to tempt the taste buds. Admission and parking are free.

Reflective of Arts Fulshear’s vision, this event shares a commitment to the wellbeing and creative growth of the community by providing local access to the arts. As a non-profit organization, Arts Fulshear provides and supports art and cultural events, art education and public art.

For more information or to register as an artist, visit www.artsfulshear.org Blake Mecham painting at the or call 281-533-4109.

Art Walk.

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Jake Messinger & Courtney Wright Karen Johnson & Cheryl Brown Gail McClendon & Cameron Mason Ira & Hillary Goldstein Jeff Bodle & Alvin San Miguel Jill Curtis, Walt White & Angie Wierzbicki Dorothy, Myron & Clara Goforth Tracey & Jim Shaw Alan & Pat Houck Kory Enders & Tory Williams Charlene Rogers & Stephanie Silvia 11

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Teresa & William Reading Michael Black & Caron Marble Kerrie & Trever Nehls Amin & Gina Abdula Albert & June Steele Taylor Smith with Alexis & Scott Breeze Darren Williams & Carrie Dolezal Ajmal & Asma Rahim Bailey, Jeff & Terry Weiner Jim Brown & Heather Bright Tyler & Kathlyne Woods

Event Program

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Exceptional

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Seen on the Scene

NEWSWORTHY

Boots & Badges Gala Benefiting Behind the Badge Charities February 13, 2016 • George Ranch Historical Park

Wild West Brew Fest Set to Impress While Giving Back

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Photo by Karen Ali.

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Entering its fifth year, the Wild West Brew Fest (WWBF) has expanded from 43,000 square feet in its first three years to 143,000 square feet in its fourth year. “Within this massive space, you will find over 150 brewers featuring over 550 craft brews,” said David Loesch, event chairman. This year’s festival set for Friday, April 22nd and Saturday, April 23rd will feature various “zones,” including a game tent sponsored by Grace Care Centers of Katy with over 12 taps provided by 8th Wonder Brewery, a VIP tent provided by the Ballard House, food and a DJ providing great tunes all day long.

In addition, an authentic beer garden provided by No Label Brewery and Light it Right featuring a custom tap wall with over 15 taps and open-air seating will provide a unique gathering space for patrons. WWBF will also include a brewing contest, best dressed volunteer contest and “best bites” contest in the VIP area.

The event itself is great for bringing tourism into the city of Katy. Over 17 states were represented at the 2015 event, which also had visitors from as far as the Netherlands.

WWBF is put on by the Rotary Club of Katy and is 100 percent volunteer driven, with 100 percent of the net profits donated. In 2015, the event brought in $113,000, which was given to several charities in the local area bringing the total amount given away in its four-year existence to over $250,000. “Thanks goes to all of our sponsors, volunteers, team members, the Rotary Club of Katy and our patrons, for without them this event would not happen,” said Loesch.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.wildwestbrewfest.com.

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Janet Chobatar, Callie Teegardin & Darlin Johnston Laura & Rob Thompson David Plant, Ashley Plant, Rhonda Kuykendall, Karen Van Holten, Kim Stacy & Danial Van Holten Cyndia Rodriguez & Elizabeth Duff-Drozd Jaime & Maggie Jaramillo Bobby & Margaret Kunz with Brenda & Mark Mullinix Chris & Mandi Bronsell 7

APRIL 2016 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

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Evelyn Traylor, Margie Connolly, Mike Andrade & Tracy Walker Troy Nehls & Brett Beach Esmeralda & Celso Pecheco Maggy Horgan & John Healey Iris & Amy Mitchell with Gordon Berkstresser Sylvia & John Zerwas Vanessa & Chris Morales Kay & Jim Garrett Anavell & Frank Yeverino Freddy & Amanda Lopez

Relocation Guide

• Commemorative Books • Event Programs • Relocation Guides & Directories 17

Call 281.690.4242

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Effective

We are more than just magazines.

NEWSWORTHY

BRAIN TEASER

By Myles Mellor

It’s Springtime!

Tank Schottle Loses 83 Pounds Through Special Olympics Texas Programming

Derek “Tank” Schottle before and after his weight loss.

Across 1 Yellow spring flowers 8 Wake someone up 9 Cry of a lamb 10 Place where people stay overnight 11 Touch or sight for example 13 Tree 14 Type of poem 15 Churchyard tree in “Romeo and

Juliet” 16 Upbeat 18 Brought into the world 21 Full of leaves 22 Areas of water that ice up in winter

and melt in spring 25 Just developed 26 Playful fish 27 Street, for short

Down 1 Girl’s name 2 Clean and healthy, like ___ air 3 Not inside the house 4 Spring flowers that are often purple 5 “The ___ Ranger” 6 Spring has more ___ days

than winter 7 Making fresh again 12 Direction on a compass 13 Shape of a rainbow 17 What a painter paints on 19 ____ his arms for his sweetheart 20 Fresh water that helps the

flowers grow 21 Young boy 23 Part of a tennis game 24 Word used to show “I get it” See answers on page 39.

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APRIL 2016 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

Derek “Tank” Schottle of Sugar Land went for the gold at the 2016 Special Olympics Texas (SOTX) Winter Games, a statewide competition in bowling, powerlifting and volleyball, which was held in Austin February 5th through 7th for more than 2,500 athletes from across Texas.

Schottle, a member of Lamar Consolidated ISD’s SOTX team, has become a role model for Special Olympics athletes because of his commitment to fitness and sportsmanship and for his love of life. Through his involvement with SOTX, Schottle began a lifestyle change in October 2014, increasing his exercise and eating a healthier diet, resulting in an 83 pound weight loss.

Over the past 15 months, Schottle has shared his challenges on Facebook, encouraging others as he documents his extensive involvement in sports and his fitness journey. Schottle’s Facebook followers acknowledge what an inspiration he has been to them to not give up on their dreams. He treats his Special Olympics teammates the same way, providing encouragement and leading by example.

In last year’s SOTX statewide volleyball competition and after shedding 73 pounds, Schottle and his Lamar ISD teammates claimed second place in the championship match. “It was a lot of hard work to get that far, and I am blessed for that,” Schottle said. “Losing the weight has really paid off. I work out every day, I love to play sports, I do my best, I look great, and I feel healthy now.”

For more information, visit www.sotx. org/wintergames.

PROFILES

7 Tips for a Fast, Easy Move Take the stress out of move-in day with this list of best practices from Bill Powers.

Meet the Finest in Brazos

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Protect delicate plants from damage by making funnel-shaped cardboard protectors.

Make sure all of the rooms are clean before placing furniture into them.

Before moving furniture into a room, decide how you want it arranged.

To prevent items from being misplaced, draw up a floor plan of the house and label each of the rooms on the plan.

To keep helpers from tracking in dirt during their many trips into the home, lay down packing blankets or drop cloths over carpeting or floors.

When moving a large or heavy piece of furniture upstairs, lay it on its back on the stairs. Have two people underneath push it and one person above to steady it.

Air rooms out by opening all of the windows.

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Source: www.hgtv.com

Hometown America, Inc.

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Kristin Lytle

Hometown America, Inc. 4665 Sweetwater Blvd.

Suite 105 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-414-3059 www.har.com/kristinlytle kristinlytle@aol.com

he highest compliment for a job well done is when clients and colleagues recommend you for the Five Star Real Estate Agent Award featured in Texas Monthly.

As part of an in-depth research process, Real Estate agents are evaluated by their customers and Real Estate industry professionals based on customer service, integrity, market knowledge, communication and negotiation skills, closing preparation, helping clients find the right home, marketing the home being sold and overall satisfaction. The Five Star Real Estate Agents are evaluated in the local market and are scored highest in overall satisfaction. This list represents less than 3% of the Real Estate agents in the local market.

For six years in a row, Kristin Lytle, Broker Associate with Hometown America, Inc., has received recognition as a Five Star Agent. “Thank you to all of my clients and colleagues for the confidence and trust you have placed in me. I am honored to once again receive this prestigious recognition,” said Lytle.

As a Real Estate professional with 15 years of experience, Lytle assists buyers and sellers in all of Fort Bend County, and her record speaks for itself: More than 90% of her transactions over the years have been referrals from satisfied clients and friends.

Active in the community where she lives and works, Lytle has twice been nominated for Fort Bend County Woman of the Year, and she has worked with multiple community initiatives including Sugar Land Planning and Zoning where she served as a commissioner. “Supporting our community is important to me because, with community involvement, we create a great place to live and raise our families.”

www.absolutelybrazos.com l APRIL 2016

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By Joan Frances

High School HOT SHOT Meet Sarah Nguyen

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oster High School in Lamar Consolidated School District strives to educate all students “by ensuring access to a superior education through inspired leadership among parents, teachers, administrators and staff, allowing the students to achieve their full potential.” Seniors graduate with a well-rounded knowledge through academics, sports and electives. One senior who has achieved success in academics, extracurricular activities and leadership is Sarah Nguyen.

Sarah has taken Advanced Placement classes during most of her high school career. She is a member of the National Honor Society and the recipient of the Excellence in Biology Award. Sarah’s high grades were recognized on the Academic Honor Roll. She is a member of the Foster Interact Club, and last year, she contributed as the secretary. The benefit of the International Action Club is to introduce students to service projects and leadership skills.

Sarah is also an active member of the award-winning debate team at Foster. Weekends are spent debating at tournaments all over the state and with the National Forensic League competition in the summer.

Sarah enjoys the friendships she has made with other students from all over the area. She said, “The wonderful friends I have made during my time at school, along with the debate tournaments, will be something I will never forget. Everyone works to accomplish the same goal. We en-

Sa r a h courage each other, laugh together and enjoy learning from one other. It makes all of the work worthwhile.” One value Sarah lives by is commitment. “To be committed to something is to follow through, work hard and learn from the outcome, whatever it is.”

Sarah is a member and student advisor for Powerful Opportunities for Women Eager and Ready for Science, Engineering and Technology (POWERSET). POWERSET provides a path to a career in science and mathematics for high school females. Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) is designed to connect motivated students with career opportunities.

They meet people working in STEM majors and participate in educational field trips. Sarah is committed to this training program. She said, “This organization opens doors for females in a male dominated market. I find this is so fulfilling, because I can lead by encouraging my peers to think outside

of the box and to choose something they can be passionate about. The possibilities are endless in this range of subjects, and the work force is encouraging more female involvement.”

Sarah is also an Aerospace Scholar, a recognition she obtained through the Nuclear Energy Institute.

Sarah’s favorite teacher at Foster is Tamara Wright, who teaches science. Sarah said, “Mrs. Wright has a passion for this subject that is interesting and motivating. I really appreciate all of the unique activities she creates to increase our understanding of the course. She has such a positive attitude and is always available before and after school to tutor or mentor. I appreciate her encouragement to take a different path, work at a goal and follow through with the commitment.”

In addition to her school dedication, Sarah is engaged in volunteering during her free time. Having completed over 124 hours of community service, she has spent time at Friends of North Rosenberg, helping the less fortunate. She also volunteers at Common Threads, a donation site for clothing to aid people during difficult times. She is active in her church and helps at the Fort Bend County Fair.

Sarah will attend college in the fall at The University of Texas at Austin and will major in biology.

Congratulations on your individuality and commitment Sarah, and good luck as you begin the next chapter of your life.

“To be committed to something is to follow through, work hard and learn from the outcome, whatever it is.” – Sarah Nguyen 24

APRIL 2016 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

NEWSWORTHY

CAMPBELL GARRETT Fort Bend Aggie Moms’ Club Raises Funds for Student Scholarships

DISTINCTIVE HOMES

Your Land. Our Expertise.

Carol Gaas, Jayne Nemec, Sally Berlocher and Lynne Clark.

The Fort Bend Aggie Moms’ Club is conducting their Fifth Annual Raffle, which raises funds to provide scholarships to deserving Fort Bend students attending Texas A&M University, College Station or Galveston campuses and Texas A&M-Blinn TEAM students.

This year’s first place prize is a 2016 Toyota Corolla provided by Fort Bend Toyota. Second place prize is one week of timeshare time at a resort destination valued at $2,100 donated by Tony and Eileen Scarmado. Destinations are subject to availability and include Lake Tahoe, Nevada, Chandler, Arizona, Branson or Otter Rock, Oregon.

Third place prize is a round of golf for four at Golf Club of Houston valued at $700, which includes green fees and range balls. A cart rental is $20 per person, and the prize is valid Monday through Thursday only. Fourth place prize is a beauty themed gift basket valued at $700 donated by Grant’s Hair Fashions.

Fifth place prize is a Houstonian Trellis Spa package valued at $500. Winners need not be present to win, and the drawing will be held on April 9th at the Texas A&M campus during Parents’ Weekend.

For more information regarding scholarships provided by the Fort Bend Aggie Moms’ Club, visit fortbendmoms.aggienetwork.com. For more details on the raffle and to purchase a ticket, call Jayne Nemec at 713-306-9451 or Carol Gaas at 832-746-7739.

Plan design service, builder showroom & precision craftmanship... Campbell Garrett Distinctive Homes makes it easy for you to build the perfect place to call home.

Visit us at www.CampbellGarrett.com 832-865-3444 207 Morton Street • Richmond, TX

RosenbeRg Ccenter aRpet & FlooRing Since 1958

What’son on your your floor matters.

What’s floor matters!

Wood Floor Refinishing Wood & Laminate Flooring Ceramic Tile Flooring Counter Tops Commercial & Residential 1006 1st Street • Rosenberg, Texas

WWW.ROSENBERGCARPET.COM • 281.342.5193 www.absolutelybrazos.com l APRIL 2016

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EVENTS April 1st, 6 pm – Midnight Raising Dollars for Scholars Take 2 The Needville Education Foundation presents an evening of dinner, dance and auction at KC Hall, located at 13631 Highway 36 in Needville.

Tickets are $25 and include dinner by Schulze’s BBQ and music by DJ Jody Tekyl. The event will raise funds to support educational grants within Needville ISD. Call 979-793-4308 or visit www.needvilleisd.com.

April 10th, 11 am – 4 pm 3rd Annual AutoRama at the Ranch

April 2nd, 1 – 7 pm 4th Annual Crawfish Boil and Pig Roast Benefiting the Vincent Morales Campaign Vincent M. Morales, Jr. will host his annual event at the Morales Party Barn, located at 5030 Bryan Road in Rosenberg, to help raise funds for his campaign for Fort Bend County Commissioner of Precinct 1. The event will feature freshly cooked crawfish and a pig roast provided

by Meat House BBQ. Other attractions include The Nigel Edison Band, Styx Lounge and a Kid Zone sponsored by Gingerbread Kids’ Academy.

Contact Mindy Cernosek at moralescampaign@yahoo.com or 832-797-1331 to register.

The George Ranch High School Band Booster Club’s (GRBBC) community-wide fundraiser is a unique car show featuring over 100 sports, classic, muscle, exotic, tuner, sport compact and low rider cars, as well as motorcycles. Visit with car owners, enjoy live music and tasty food from food truck vendors and much more. All proceeds directly benefit the GRBBC band students and program.

Contact president@grhsband.org.

April 16th, 9 am 1860s Quilting Bee A quilting bee is in full swing at The George Ranch Historical Park’s 1860s Ryon Prairie Home, located at 10215 FM 762 in Richmond.

Come try your hand at quilting on the communal quilt or bring your own projects to work with others. Cost is included with general park admission. Call 281-343-0218 or e-mail info@georgeranch.org.

April 23rd, 9 – 11 am The State of Autism 2016: A Family Forum

Photo from www.brvino.com

Hope For Three wants to give families, friends and the community the tools they need to support individuals living with autism at a free event at Santikos Palladium, located at 7301 West Grand Parkway South in Richmond. Attendees will receive information about living with autism from autism experts in the fields of insurance, public policy, applied behavior analysis, first responders, speech therapy, special education and neurology. To register, visit www.hopeforthree.org or call 281-245-0640.

Photo from www.georgeranch.org.

April 2nd, 7:30 – 10:30 pm BR Vino 4th Anniversary Celebration Celebrate BR Vino’s 4th Anniversary with great company, food, wine and beer at 1919 Avenue G in Rosenberg. Local rockers Leftooright will provide live entertainment.

Visit www.brvino.com or call 832-595-2881.

April 9th, 11 am – 5 pm RailFest 2016 Rail fans young and old are invited to this 7th annual family-friendly celebration at the Rosenberg Railroad Museum, located at 1921 Avenue F in Rosenberg. An all-out celebration of the Railroading Heritage of Fort Bend County, RailFest 2016 features a model trail layout show, museum open house, trackless train, balloon artist, kids’ area with fun and games, live music, great food and much more!

Call 281-633-2846 or visit www.rosenbergrrmuseum.org.

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April 30th, 9 am Photography Day at the Park Bring a camera and discover the wonders of spring at The George Ranch Historical Park, located at 10215 FM 762 in Richmond. Guided photography walking tours will be offered at 9 am and 4 pm.

Call 281-343-0218 or visit www.georgeranch.org.

APRIL 2016 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

t n e t t A

s! d e w wly e N ion Coming June 2016

Blushing Brides Submit your info today and have your wedding details and photos published in print and online in our magazine.

If you or your children have recently married and you would like to enter for a chance to be featured in our Blushing Brides, all you need is at least ten high-resolution photos of the ceremony and/or reception. It doesn’t matter where the wedding took place, as long as it was in the last year and you or your parent/s reside in Brazos area.

Photographers are also welcome to submit photos.

Contact: sarah@absolutelyfocusmedia.com or visit www.absolutelybrazos.com. www.absolutelybrazos.com l APRIL 2016

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absolutely!

A Ua T bO s oR l uEtVe Il E yW !

ABy U TSteve O RKursar EVIEW

2016 TOYOTA TACOMA T he 2016 Toyota Tacoma mid-size pickup truck is all new inside and out, yet it retains a familiar quality that fans of the best-selling truck will appreciate. The front fascia has a new grill and rear tailgate that features the stamped Tacoma logo. But the truck’s profile is remarkably similar to the previous model. Don’t be fooled though, this third generation Tacoma is more capable, loaded with technology and better fuel economy.

The first Toyota Tacoma appeared on United States highways back in 1995 as a compact pickup and grew to midsize stature when the second generation truck debuted in 2005. The Tacoma is by far a more popular Toyota truck than its

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larger, full-size brother the Tundra.

The newest Tacoma is all about toughness and capability. All models now get the same higher, tougher suspension package that used to be reserved only for 4x4 models, a good indicator as to what Toyota wants to do with the new truck. The 2016 off-road versions are decidedly beefier, and gone is the single cab, low suspension trim that was popular with pickup buyers looking to save some money.

The base 2016 Tacoma gets the 159 hp, 2.7 liter four-cylinder engine that carries over from the previous generation model with no changes. It’s a proven, time-tested engine that is mated to a new six-speed automatic transmission delivering EPA estimated fuel economy numbers of 19 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. The new Tacoma does get a new, sophisticated 278 hp, 3.5 liter V6 engine to replace the venerable 4.0 liter. A lot of serious Toyota engineering went into giving this powertrain the ability to deliver 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway – even better fuel economy than the smaller four-cylinder engine.

APRIL 2016 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

The interior is completely redesigned to keep you connected hands-free through the Entune system and to keep your devices wirelessly charged with the iQ wireless system. There is also far more insulation, a multi-layer acoustic windshield, a sound-absorbing headliner and a floor silencer pad to make for a much quieter ride. Every new Tacoma comes standard with a GoPro camera mount affixed to the windshield.

The new 2016 Tacoma is sure to win over new buyers looking for a smaller truck that’s easier to maneuver than a full-size pickup, yet is still capable of hauling a serious load and going offroad with ease.

Follow Steve Kursar at KursarOnCars. blogspot.com.

Medical Focus H e a l t h Care News You Can Use

F E AT U R I N G

Stuart Rimes, DDS, MS Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Just for Kids Pediatrics C&C Dental UT Physicians Women’s Center at Sugar Land UT Physicians Urogynecology Center Larry Caldwell, DDS OakBend Medical Center Fulshear Foot and Ankle Lemke Orthodontics Sugar Land Face and Body Plastic Surgery

www.absolutelybrazos.com l APRIL 2016

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Medical Focus

Advertorial

Stuart Rimes, DDS, MS Teams with The Art of Skin MedSpa for Customized Care The Art of Skin MedSpa is taking a new adventure in the skin and health care industry with Stuart Rimes DDS, MS and Nisa Dadjoo DDS, MSD. Not only are teeth important, but facial care is also important. The combination of these two services produces one amazing outcome. Come and enjoy the whole experience for yourself.

Are you looking for advanced skin care treatments designed to help look and feel your best? The Art of Skin MedSpa offers a wide variety of skin care treatments including HydraFacial, SkinPen, chemical peels, dermaplaning, Botox, fillers and medical grade products. The Art of Skin MedSpa is committed to helping people achieve their unique beauty goals, whether it is a major exfoliation or serious hydration. They offer complimentary, no pressure consultations to guide patients in deciding what procedures will best achieve their goals.

The Art of Skin MedSpa’s mission is to offer the highest quality services by creating customized, state-of-the-art treatment plans. Owner and lead aesthetician LaDonna Marie wants everyone to know, “We thank our clients for their amazing loyalty as we make this move. Our location may have changed, but our commitment to service and quality remains as strong as always. We’re committed to unlocking your skin’s potential and uncovering your true beauty.”

Stuart Rimes, DDS, MS is a prosthodontist dental practice offering dental implants, aesthetics and reconstructive dentistry at 15958 City Walk, Suite 230 in Sugar Land Town Square. For more information or to schedule a free consultation, call 281-3131565 or visit www.rimesdds.com.

Salman Aly, MD PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN • Board Certified in Internal Medicine • Experienced in Geriatric and Hospital Medicine • Botox, Dermal Fillers, Low T Syndrome • Hyperbaric & Advanced Wound Care For appointments call:

832-886-4774

Sarfraz Aly, MD INFECTIOUS DISEASE SPECIALIST • Board Certified in Infectious Diseases and Internal Medicine • Hyperbaric & Advanced Wound Care • Travel Medicine For appointments call:

832-886-4994

Now Accepting New Patients At Both Locations In Sugar Land And Wharton Sugar Land: 1201 Creekway Dr. • Suite B Sugar Land, Texas 77478 Wharton: 979-282-6151 • 10141 US 59 • Wharton, Texas, 77488

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APRIL 2016 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital: Leading Medicine Since opening its doors in 1998, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital has been a key health care provider for residents of Fort Bend and surrounding counties. A pioneer in the advancements of medicine, Houston Methodist Sugar Land has grown into a world-class hospital with a new bed tower opening this year to bring the hospital to 347 beds and 20 operating rooms.

With Centers of Excellence in cardiology, neurosciences, oncology, orthopedics, urology and women’s services, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital brings the physician expertise, skill and up-to-the-minute technology of the world-renowned Houston Methodist to Fort Bend and surrounding counties.

Patients and their families have come to know Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital for delivering quality services through compassionate, personal care with first-rate technology. Houston Methodist Sugar Land employees display integrity, compassion, accountability, respect and excellence in their daily interactions with patients, and FORTUNE magazine named Houston Methodist on its “100 Best Companies to Work For” for 10 consecutive years.

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is located at 16655 Southwest Freeway in Sugar Land. For a referral to a physician at Houston Methodist Sugar Land, please call 281-274-7500.

Learn more at houstonmethodist.org/ sugarland, and for the latest news, events and information, visit FB.com/ methodistsugarland.

Medical Focus

Advertorial

houston Methodist gynecologic oncology associates

Dr. Tarrik Zaid has extensive training and experience in gynecologic cancer, including the completion of a fellowship in gynecologic oncology. In partnership with Houston Methodist Gynecologic Oncology Associates — and supported by the leading-edge technology and highly skilled professionals at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital — Dr. Zaid provides compassionate, individualized care for the treatment of uterine, ovarian, cervical and other female reproductive system cancers.

This is the Houston Methodist level of cancer care — from diagnosis to survival — where technology and compassion are leading to a cure. to schedule an appointment, call 281.275.0880.

Medical Office Building Three 16605 Southwest Frwy., Suite 450 Sugar Land, TX 77479 houstonmethodist.org/spg

Achieve the

Ultimate Smile!

People seeking cosmetic or reconstructive dental work should do research before making a decision in order to ensure proper care. As ADA recognized specialists, Prosthodontists are qualified to offer services in state-of-the-art procedures and techniques, such as: cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, complete and partial dentures, replacing lost or loose teeth, jaw joint problems (TMJ), traumatic injuries, snoring and sleep disorders and oral cancer reconstruction.

Replacing missing teeth in one day!

Dr. Stuart Rimes

before

after

Restore your smile with cosmetic dentistry!

before

after

Stuart Rimes, DDS, MS

281-313-1565

Crowns, Implants, Cosmetic, Reconstructive Dentistry Board Certified Prosthodontist

15958 City Walk, Ste. 230, Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.RimesDDS.com • e-mail: dr.rimes@comcast.net

We are now in network with your insurance www.absolutelybrazos.com l APRIL 2016

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Advertorial

Medical Focus Why Schedule Well-Child Checks?

A child’s yearly check up is important. Even healthy children need regular preventative services, such as vision and hearing screens. A yearly checkup is a good opportunity to reassess a child’s growth, development and risk for various conditions.

Well-child visits can help find and treat health problems before they become serious.

They also allow parents and children to ask questions about the child’s health and establish a relationship with a primary care physician. A well-child visit will encourage children to stay healthy and make healthy choices.

Just for Kids Pediatrics is committed to putting children first, working together with patients and families to provide exceptional medical care for kids in the Katy area.

They pride themselves on providing compassionate, comprehensive services to children from birth through adolescence. From routine checkups to immunizations, Just for Kids Pediatrics is equipped to handle all of a child’s health needs.

When parents choose Just for Kids Pediatrics for their child’s primary medical care, they can feel confident they are working with professionals who are qualified, experienced and caring. They do this by equipping parents with the support and resources needed to make the most educated decisions about their child’s health. Parents will feel confident in the Just for Kids Pediatrics team’s ability to meet and exceed all of their expectations.

Just for Kids Pediatrics is located at 418 Park Grove in Katy. For more information, call 281-492-0774 or visit www.justforkidspediatrics.com.

Where children come first and where we work together with patients and families to provide exceptional medical care for kids in our community.

Accepting new patients

from age 3 days to 18 years Well-child checks Immunizations Same day sick visits www.justforkidspediatrics.com 418 Park Grove

Katy, TX 77450

281-492-0774

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Amisha Patel, MD

APRIL 2016 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

Progress in the Fight Against Oral Cancer Sadly, oral cancer has continued to grow at an alarming rate. It is the only cancer that has risen each of the past seven years, affecting over 42,000 people this year. This cancer not only deforms, it kills. Most oral cancer is found in later stages such as stage 3 or 4, which has a much worse chance of survival.

Why is it found so late? For one thing, the screening protocol to detect oral cancer, which relies on vision and palpation, has not changed in 120 years. This is unacceptable, but fortunately, technology has advanced so that detection of oral cancer can be found earlier than ever. This advancement is based on fluorescence, or how the soft tissue of the mouth looks under certain types of light.

Here is how it works. A dentist performs a visual exam using standard white light and palpation. Then, filtered lenses are worn by the dentist and a specially made LED flashlight is scanned around the mouth. Skin that is abnormal will fluoresce a certain way. If the screening reveals an abnormality, it can be rechecked in two weeks. If still present at that time, a biopsy may be called for.

This proactive approach is critical to find cancer early. Until recently, people have only used their eyes and touch for oral cancer screening. Now, with advancing technologies, they have the ability to discover these irregularities in much earlier stages.

For more information or to schedule an appointment at C&C Dental, call 281242-0241.

See ad on page 3.

Medical Focus

Advertorial

Women’s Center

at Sugar Land

Compassionate, Comprehensive Care for Women

Brian R. Heaps, MD Board Certified Ob/Gyn

Azeema Moosa, MD

Michelle Wong, MD

Board Certified Ob/Gyn

• Adult & Adolescent Gynecology • Minimally Invasive Surgery/Robotic Surgery • Reproductive and Pelvic Health Issues

Board Certified Ob/Gyn

• Well Woman Care and Preventative Health Screening • General & Complex Obstetrics & Gynecology

17510 West Grand Parkway South, Suite #550 • Sugar Land, TX 77479

Call 713.486.1250 for appointments

www.UTPhysicians.com

Suffer No More Coming May 2016 Millions of women suffer from extremely heavy periods. Every month, they fear that they will have an embarrassing incident, be unable to leave the house due to the need for frequent trips to the bathroom and possibly even miss work. These women may never seek treatment, because they think it is “natural” and part of normal life.

This condition, also known as menorrhagia, is actually a medical condition and has several treatment options. One basic treatment option is the use of birth control pills.

Although most people associate birth control pills only with preventing pregnancy, they are used for a variety of medical conditions, including heavy periods. Another option is an intrauterine device (IUD), which can make menstrual periods extremely light.

This small device can be placed during a simple office visit.

For women who are completely done with childbearing, a popular solution is endometrial ablation. This is a minimally invasive procedure that neutralizes the inner lining of the uterus. This simple procedure can be performed in the office, surgery center or operating room. Recovery is quick, and most people are able to return to work within a few days.

A final treatment option for those women who are done having children is a hysterectomy, a procedure to remove the uterus. This is the only guaranteed way to completely stop menstrual periods. This procedure can be performed using advanced, minimally invasive techniques and will completely cure heavy menstrual periods.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call UT Physicians Women’s Center Sugar Land at 713-486-1250 or visit UTPhysicians.com.

absolutely!

Pet Friendly

Veterinarians Groomers • Pet Stores Boarding Services Animal Adoption Organizations To Advertise: 281-690-4242 www.absolutelybrazos.com

www.absolutelybrazos.com l APRIL 2016

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Medical Focus

Advertorial

Urogynecology Center

Caring for women with pelvic floor disorders...

Nina H. Dereska, MD

Dr. Nina H. Dereska

Common conditions treated:

H H H H H H

Loss of bladder or bowel control Pelvic organ prolapse Bladder emptying problems Painful bladder problems Urinary tract infections Female Sexual Dysfunction

is fellowship-trained and board certified in Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery (FPMRS) and Obstetrics & Gynecology. Urogynecology combines expertise in urology and gynecology to provide women with comprehensive care for conditions such as prolapse, incontinence, pelvic pain and other pelvic floor disorders.

Urogynecology Center

Dr. Dereska and her compassionate staff will allay your fears and educate you about the latest technology in testing and treatments so you can get back to living your life.

Services include:

H H H H H H H H H

Multichannel Urodynamic Testing Cystoscopy Pessaries Pelvic floor physical therapy Sacral and peripheral nerve stimulation Botulinum toxin bladder injections Interstitial cystitis therapy Surgery for pelvic organ prolapse Surgery for bladder or bowel incontinence

17510 W Grand Parkway S. Suite 590 Sugar Land, TX 77479 Conveniently located in the Medical Plaza Memorial Hermann Sugar Land

Appointments and Information:

713-486-1530

www.UTPhysicians.com

Coming May 2016

absolutely!` Senior Living Health Care • Therapy and Rehabilitation Centers Senior Adult Activities • Retirement Communities In-Home Services • Assisted Living Facilities To Advertise: 281-690-4242 • www.absolutelybrazos.com

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APRIL 2016 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

Staying Healthy Through Mid-Life and Beyond Nina H. Dereska, MD, FPMRS is a highly skilled and board certified urogynecologist and pelvic reconstructive surgeon. Dr. Dereska’s practice includes diagnosis and management of urinary incontinence (stress incontinence, urge incontinence, mixed incontinence), overactive bladder, bladder emptying disorders and other bladderrelated issues. Dr. Dereska treats pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic fistulas utilizing multiple modalities – both surgical and non-surgical options tailored to each patient’s needs.

As women age, they can experience pelvic issues that disrupt daily living.

Dr. Dereska’s years of experience and advanced training can help restore a woman’s active lifestyle. She thoroughly reviews treatment options with each patient that include medical and surgical management of pelvic floor dysfunction.

Dr. Dereska often utilizes medical robotics for surgical cases that help minimize pain, hospital stay, blood loss and scarring. Her goal is every patient’s goal – to get them back to their normal daily activities with family and friends.

In addition to providing compassionate patient care, Dr. Dereska serves as Assistant Professor Dept. of Ob/Gyn & Reproductive Sciences at The University of Texas (UT) Health Medical School. Dr. Dereska’s office is conveniently located in the Memorial Hermann Medical Plaza in Sugar Land and offers complimentary valet parking. She and her dedicated staff strive to make each patient experience as stress-free as possible and look forward to ensuring that women stay healthy and active through mid-life and beyond.

UT Physicians Urogynecology Center is located at 17510 W. Grand Parkway South, Suite 590 in Sugar Land. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 713-486-1530.

Medical Focus

Advertorial

Your Child’s First Dental Visit New parents often ask, “When should my child first see a dentist?” The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatrics both agree that children should visit a pediatric dentist by age one.

National studies have shown that preschool-aged children are getting more cavities. More than one in four children in the United States has had at least one cavity by the age of four, and many children get cavities as early as age two.

Comprehensive initial exams for children under the age of two are always complimentary at the office of Larry Caldwell, DDS Dentistry For Children.

At the initial one year visit, Dr. Caldwell and his staff will discuss how to care for an infant’s or toddler’s mouth; oral habits, including finger and thumb sucking; how to handle dental emergencies and accidents that could damage the face and teeth; bottle feeding and nursing as it relates to decay; teething and eruption of teeth and the link between diet and oral health.

Dr. Caldwell recommends the first cleaning and X-rays between the age of two and a half and three years. When preparing a child for his first visit, use fun and positive words. Dr. Caldwell and his staff have expertise in handing the special needs and circumstances of all children. A positive dental experience is accomplished through efficient teamwork and a gentle patient approach. It is Dr. Caldwell’s goal to not only meet parents’ expectations of their children’s dental experience, but surpass it.

For more information, call 281-565kids (5437).

Dr. Larry Caldwell and Dr. Derek Steinbring

Larry Caldwell, D. D. S. AND ASSOCIATES

Specializing in Dentistry for Children and those with Special Needs Oral Health Education • Sealants • Intravenous Sedation High Speed Digital X-Rays • Ora Verse Anesthesia Reversal Laser Soft Tissue Removal • Accepting New Patients

A Special Place for Special People Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry 15200 SW Freeway • Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.565.KIDS (5437) • www.larrycaldwelldds.com

April Is Occupational Therapy Month Occupational therapy (OT) is the only profession that helps people across their lifespan to do the things they want and need to do through the therapeutic use of daily activities, commonly known as occupations.

OT practitioners help people of all ages to live life to its fullest by helping them promote health and prevent – or live better with – injury, illness or disability. Whether young or old, occupational therapy is designed to benefit the patient. It might be as simple as helping children with disabilities to participate fully in school and social situations, helping people recovering from injury to regain skills or providing supports for older adults experiencing physical and cognitive changes.

The OT programs at OakBend Medical Center focus on improving fine motor skills of the hand and arm, allowing for improved ability to complete the activities of daily living. Their therapists’ first priority is to foster the greatest activity level possible and encourage the patient to utilize the affected extremity as soon as possible. This facilitates an increase in the patient’s independence level.

OakBend offers therapeutic exercises, orthosis and splint fabrication (fitting and training), pain management, functional activities of daily living training, scar management and mirror therapy.

OakBend’s therapists believe that providing hands-on individualized and goal oriented treatments product positive results. To find out more about OakBend Medical Center’s occupational therapy services, visit www.oakbendmedcenter.org or call 281341-3000.

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Medical Focus

Advertorial

Life is Too Short to Live with Heel Pain

We offer both surgical and non surgical treatments for all foot and ankle problems.

Dr. Jeanna Mascorro, AACFAS Podiatry Foot and Ankle Surgery

281-391-1212

7609 Tiki Drive, Suite D Fulshear, TX 77441 www.fulshearfootandankle.com

Caring for you, closer to home.

We accept all insurances.

We see all ages.

Tiffany Scott, Dr. Jeanna Mascorro, Sheyla Perez and Nicole Peaco.

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APRIL 2016 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

Many people suffer with heel pain daily, and it is one of the most common problems seen at Fulshear Foot and Ankle. If left untreated, it can continue to get worse and linger for years or possibly a lifetime.

The good news is most patients require non-operative treatment. The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, or inflammation of the band in the arch of the foot. Plantar fasciitis is typically seen in people with abnormally low or high arches. Plantar fasciitis is also caused by walking or standing on hard surfaces and wearing non-supportive shoes or going barefoot.

Stretching every day and wearing shoes with support are important. For women, shoes with a heel or wedge are best – one to two inches only. It is best to avoid flats. Supportive running tennis shoes are recommended and will likely require an over the counter insert in them.

Some patients may also have a heel spur, or bony growth, at the fascia insertion into the heel bone. This is due to tension and pulling of the fascia and does not actually cause the pain. The inflammation of the fascia itself is what causes pain.

Other causes of heel pain are less likely but must be considered. They include a stress fracture, tendonitis, arthritis, cyst or nerve irritation. In children, heel pain is likely caused by Sever’s disease. Whatever the cause, it is important to be evaluated and start treatment as soon as possible to begin living pain free once again!

For more information, call 281-3911212 or visit www.fulshearfootandankle. com.

Medical Focus

Sugar Land Face and Body Plastic Surgery Offers Medical Spa with Breakthrough Procedures

Lemke Orthodontics: Creating Healthy, Beautiful Smiles A great, beautiful smile is the best way to make a good first impression, and it’s never too late to get the smile of your dreams!

Dr. Katia Lemke said, “My passion for aesthetic dental solutions led to me to earn my specialty degree in orthodontics with research in ceramic braces. I am therefore one of the few providers of Incognito braces in Houston and its vicinity.

“Nothing improves your appearance, attitude and confidence like a great smile, and I want to make it easier for you to get a beautiful transformation. We treat patients with patience, kindness and understanding. Children love the welcoming atmosphere and the friendly and gentle touch of this orthodontist and her staff. We offer flexible hours for school kids and working adults. I also offer a range of aesthetic solutions like clear braces, Invisalign and Incognito.

“Age seven is the best time to evaluate a child. A thorough examination will show existing or potential problems, such as cross bites, crowding and other problems. It’s always good to know in advance. I love getting to know my patients and designing the best path to straightening teeth, closing spaces and achieving their great smile. As a specialist, we’ve got a range of solutions for straighter, healthier smiles – and happier kids.”

Greet your future with a beautiful smile. Dr. Lemke stated, “I know adults who prefer nearly invisible ceramic braces and kids who like brackets shaped like stars or footballs. Your smile should express your personality!”

For more information on Lemke Orthodontics, visit www. lemkeortho.com.

When you look in the mirror, do you like what you see? Dr. Eric Humble believes “rejuvenation is about making your internal vision a reality so you can enjoy your life with joy and confidence!” Offering an in-house certified surgical center, as well as a cutting edge medical spa, Sugar Land Face and Body Plastic Surgery is a single destination with a full range of solutions, including Botox and filler injections, facial rejuvenation, body contouring and surgical procedures.

Dr. Humble is a double board certified plastic surgeon and envisions Sugar Land Face and Body becoming the pre-eminent facility in the Sugar Land and the Greater Houston area for personal transformation through the medical arts of plastic surgery and skin correction techniques. Dr. Humble’s med spa offers an exclusive and breakthrough procedure called Cellfina, the only FDA approved, minimally invasive procedure clinically proven to improve the appearance of cellulite for at least two years. Performed by Dr. Humble in the office, Cellfina combines a proven approach with innovative, proprietary technology to treat the primary structural cause of cellulite – the connective bands woven throughout fat in the thighs and buttocks. These tight bands pull down the surface of the skin, creating the puckering seen on the surface of the skin. Similar to a rubber band under tension, once released, the treated skin bounces back to smooth itself out in as little as three days.

For more information or to schedule a complimentary consultation, call 281-313-0555 or visit www.BeautyBecomesYou. com.

See ad on page 1.

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K

r e n or n

C Bir ’ rick t s a id By P

o

Co-Dependency: Affluenza Explained

W

ith all of the headlines focused on “affluenza,” it is important for all parents and caregivers to

consider what might lead to such circumstances. Their legal defense that the child’s upbringing was “too affluent” for the youth to be held accountable should be laughable, and yet, it gets through court. Luckily, there’s a “vaccine” for affluenza if we practice purposeful parenting.

While the term affluenza was purposely picked for its headline potential, the real issue in that court case and many others is what psychologists diagnose as a dysfunctional family exhibiting co-dependent relationships. Co-dependency can have many manifestations, but in this sense it means that the child becomes more attuned to the parents emotions than vice versa, and the parental sacrifice reaches unhealthy and destructive levels. Let’s translate that mumbo jumbo.

I have an eight-month-old, and since being born, he has been 100 percent dependent upon my wife and me. Some would say that our focus and dedication to caring for his needs – at all hours of the night, I might add – is unhealthy for us, but it is necessary and normal for his developmental stage. He’ll grow out of it.

Co-dependency is when this cycle and a one-sided relationship between the parent and child is never broken, even after infancy. Once the child matures to higher maturity levels, it is up to parents to, for lack of a better phrase, cut the cord. Children aren’t infants, but if they are treated as such, they are never forced to deal with negativity or accountability on their own. For a child

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in a co-dependent relationship, instead of the child altering his behavior to fix his problems, the parents or another person are expected to alter their behavior to achieve that end.

The easiest way to avoid this is to allow logical consequences to happen with the child instead of swooping in to save him, as well as to ensure that the child respects the time and attention his parents dedicate to themselves and their other relationships. In reality, accountability can only be taught if a person is forced to feel and internalize the emotions that go along with reasonable punishments.

It’s natural for a parent to never want their child to hurt or feel sad, but those emotions are critical for their development. I like to say we “manage and minimize” disappointment and sadness,

APRIL 2016 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

meaning we don’t try to ignore or pretend they don’t exist. By allowing my sons to go through those emotions, acknowledging their reactions and talking about how to deal with them, we are preparing them to do all of that on their own.

Don’t let the pendulum swing too far in the opposite direction either. Children need to feel that their parents empathize with their emotions.

For my three-year-old son, it’s important for him to realize that while I love him infinitely, that does not meant that he always will get 100 percent of my attention immediately when he wants it.

Sometimes when I am talking to Mommy, he has to say excuse me and just wait. If he chooses to drink all of his juice in the first 43 seconds of the car ride, I’m not stopping to buy him more.

He can wait until we get home, since he chose to drink all of the juice we had and I warned him not to. It’s easier said than done, I know, because the one sure way to ruin a good plan is to add a screaming child. But, with a little commitment, both my sons and I can avoid the affluenza bug.

If you have a topic or question you’d like covered or simply want more information, e-mail Patrick Biron at patrick@absolutelyfocusmedia.com.

5th Annual Run to Attack Poverty 5K and Kid K Presented by OakBend Medical Center Registration is now open for the 5th Annual Run to Attack Poverty 5K and Kid K on Saturday, April 23rd in Richmond. OakBend Medical Center is the presenting sponsor for the fourth consecutive year.

This year’s event organizer Rose Pickens expects another successful year for the family-focused, health-based event. “We are anticipating 600 participants, as well as more than 200 volunteers to be a part of this year’s 5K and Kid K.” “We believe the community comes together in an unprecedented way each year for the Run to Attack Poverty,” said President and CEO of Attack Poverty Richard Logan.

Joseph Freudenberger, CEO of OakBend Medical Center, stated, “We are proud to support Attack Poverty. The community and its wellbeing is the core of our mission, and we are proud to be a part of this Run to Attack Poverty.”

It will be a day filled with food, fun, fitness, fellowship and family activities. This year’s event will include a chip timed 5K beginning at 8 am followed by an awards celebration, cheer extravaganza and the Kid K starting at 10 am. The run and walk will begin and end at the North Rich-

NEWSWORTHY

Richard Logan and Joseph Freudenberger.

mond Neighborhood Resource Center, located at 1305 Clay Street in Richmond. Registration for the 5K is $30 and $10 for the Kid K before April 7th.

For more information, call 713-261-0010. Visit https:// runsignup.com/Race/TX/Richmond/RuntoAttackPoverty to register.

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Guadalupe

RIVERFRONT DUPLEX Each duplex can accommodate four adults and four children or rent both for groups.

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It’s Springtime!

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Texas T

he Lone Star State is home to a plethora of thrilling activities suitable for the whole family. Here are just a few stretching from Galveston to San Antonio. Now, round up your friends and family, and hop in the car. Fun is just a short road trip away!

Upcoming Events at Six Flags Fiesta Texas With more than 60 amazing rides, slides, shows and attractions including nine exhilarating coasters, Fiesta Texas is the perfect day-cation getaway that is always close to home.

This Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 8th, Six Flags Fiesta Texas invites moms and everyone who loves them to enjoy a day filled with laughs, good times and incredible family memories.

Whether your mom is a daredevil or prefers to just relax, she will find non-stop fun on jaw-dropping, giant mega-coasters like Iron Rattler and classic family rides like Crow’s Nest. Mom’s little rug rats will love the kooky kids’ rides and all the zany characters from their favorite cartoons.

The park will celebrate Memorial Day from Thursday, May 26th through Monday, May 30th. Look high in the sky at aweinspiring roller coasters like the Superman Krypton Coaster to see what good, old-fashioned American ingenuity can achieve.

Then, climb aboard as Fiesta Texas’ legendary collection of roller coasters deliver non-stop modern thrills. There is fun for the whole family on fan-favorite spinner classics like the Hustler.

And, the littlest speed demons will be dazzled by the wildly creative rides made just for tykes, the majority of which are located in the Kidzopolis area.

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Crawl, Climb and Fly with Amazing Butterflies Transform into caterpillars and experience a life-size, interactive maze packed with amazing facts and the fun navigation of blind alleys in Amazing Butterflies, a special exhibition at the Houston Museum of Natural Science (HMNS) at Sugar Land running through May 15th. Visitors experience the challenges of being a caterpillar as it morphs into a beautiful butterfly through a hands-on maze of larger-than-life leaves, grass and trees.

Along the way, discover the ways caterpillars move, what they eat and how other creatures help them achieve their transformation.

“Butterflies are considered by many to be the most beautiful and interesting of insects,” said Adrienne Barker, director and chief development officer of HMNS at Sugar Land. “One of the most amazing things about this insect is how they transform from caterpillars to butterflies. It is a remarkable occurrence in nature.”

Learn to crawl like a caterpillar by slipping into a set of caterpillar legs and using teamwork and locomotion to sprint for the finish line. See why carpenter ants in Panama defend metalmark caterpillars from parasitic wasps and other predators, and feed a caterpillar its lunch through team games and contests.

Once the transformation from pupa to butterfly is complete, practice flapping giant butterfly wings while avoiding spider webs that lurk around every turn. The “Nectar Food Path Puzzle” and “Squeeze and Sniff” stations explain how butterflies find food by sight and smell. Finally, mark your progress as a butterfly by stamping a souvenir garden card at eight stations before zooming out of the maze as a butterfly on “The Monarch Monorail” mini zip line.

Amazing Butterflies is produced by Minotaur Mazes, Seattle, based on an exhibition created for the Natural History Museum in London, United Kingdom with their scientific input and interpretation.

This exhibition is locally sponsored by the Fort Bend Junior Service League and the City of Sugar Land Tourism.

APRIL 2016 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

New at SeaWorld San Antonio The world’s largest marine park, SeaWorld San Antonio will treat guests this spring and summer to the return of their popular dolphins in an expansive new naturalistic habitat, a new way to experience Aquatica and a variety of special events.

“The 2016 season is going to be exhilarating and full of new adventures that every member of the family will enjoy,” said SeaWorld and Aquatica San Antonio Park President Dan Decker. “We’re especially excited about the debut this spring of Discovery Point, one of the largest capital investments in the park’s 27 year history.”

Discovery Point, the most highly anticipated of the 2016 additions, features a new realm within SeaWorld showcasing bottlenose dolphins. Standing on the habitat’s sandy shores, guests can observe dolphins cruising the surface, or from an underwater viewing area, they can see the energetic animals playing beneath the waves. In addition, guests who wish

Aquatica, SeaWorld’s Waterpark™, is a whimsical waterpark with up-close animal experiences, high-speed thrills and sandy beaches.

Image from www.seaworldparks.com.

to come nose-to-nose with these amazing marine mammals will have the opportunity to reserve an unforgettable opportunity to swim with dolphins for a separate fee.

Entry into SeaWorld’s highly acclaimed waterpark Aquatica previously required the purchase of a two-park ticket. But new this season, guests can purchase a separate ticket just for this park.

Providing even more reasons to visit,

SeaWorld is enriching its strong lineup of special events – all of which are included with SeaWorld park admission. The “Seven Seas Food Festival” sets sail weekends in April and May. Guests can sample and sip their way around the park, enjoying craft beers, wonderful wines and global fusion food. “Summer Nights” offers special evening entertainment and later closing times.

MASSIV: The Tallest Water Coaster in the World First it was the longest river ride, then the longest torrent rivride to Galveston Island,” said Ron Sutula, general manager for er ride, then the tallest waterslide. Now, Schlitterbahn is buildSchlitterbahn Galveston Island. “It’s a massive anniversary presing the world’s tallest water coaster and putting it in the awardent to all of our guests and is going to be a blast to ride!” winning Schlitterbahn Waterpark on Galveston Island.

Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston Island has been named Called MASSIV, the German word for massive, the water the world’s best indoor waterpark for eight straight years from coaster will be in place in time for the waterpark’s 10th Annivertheme and waterpark enthusiasts worldwide. MASSIV will be sary celebration this summer. Schlitterbahn Galveston Island is twice as long as any waterslide in the park and the tallest slide. home to more thrill rides than any other Schlitterbahn Waterpark, making it the perfect home for this record-breaking ride.

Not only will MASSIV be the tallest water coaster in the world, but it will also have a number of other innovations, including a translucent section that will make riders visible from the river below, four uphill sections with six blaster jets and a triple-drop ending into a landing pool – a never-done-before thrilling finale to the ride.

The exact height of the water coaster will be announced later this spring.

MASSIV utilizes Master Blaster technology, which was invented 22 years ago by Schlitterbahn’s Wizard of Water Jeff Henry. This technology was licensed to WhiteWater West, which is the company constructing MASSIV. An artist’s aerial rendering of MASSIV. “We are thrilled to be bringing this iconic Image from www.schlitterbahnnews.com. www.absolutelybrazos.com l APRIL 2016

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OUT & ABOUT

The Fort Bend County Executive Committee recently hosted Wine from the Heart at the Fort Bend Country Club. The event benefited the American Heart Association and its mission to build healthier lives free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.

IN THE HEART BRAZOS

Chris Bronsell and Larry Willman.

Claudia Wright and Dave Scott.

Joe and Doris Gurecky.

May Tape and Adrienne Barker.

Lila Smith and JoAnn Hartfiel.

Ann and Jeff Council.

The Community Scholarship Steering Committee for the Investment in Youth Luncheon met at the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce to plan for the 19th annual event.

Members assisting with the Fort Bend Youth in Philanthropy luncheon include Dewan Clayborn, Shirley Brown, Lisa Brettmann, Stacie Bynes, Jenny Smith, Dee Koch, Beth Wolf, Angela Cox, Jessica Jia, Mandi Bronsell, Farrah Gandhi and Patti Parish-Kaminski.

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APRIL 2016 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

Calvary Episcopal Preparatory (CEP) Upper School students recently attended the 41st meeting of the Houston Area Model United Nations (HAMUN) at the University of Houston. Almost 900 students met at HAMUN, with each student representing a UN committee member on behalf of an assigned country. CEP students represented Sierra Leone and Benin. Students researched topics ranging from cyber espionage to human trafficking to global health initiatives, and in their committee meetings, they debated and crafted resolutions to present to the UN general assembly.

Photos by Mary Favre and Liz Furman.

The Fort Bend Women’s Center’s 12th Annual Girlfriends Giggle fundraiser was an exciting evening for guests to mingle, enjoy some pampering and check out the latest in health, beauty and fashion.

Davette Stegman, Hailey Maierhofer, Lizzie Richey, Hussain Mehdi, Chase Ligon, T.J. Collom, Priscila Janer, Luiza Amaral, Angelo Paca, Monica Pena, Morgan Meek, Wesley Williams and Reese McBride.

Vita Goodell and Michele Fisher.

Students at Frost Elementary School celebrated Valentine’s Day with lots of fun, crafts and of course candy!

Conner Kamp, Gabriel Andaverde, Riley Kitchens, Mia Huckman, Vanessa Flores, Ben Wu, Dylyn Wilson, Abby Black and Samantha Doherty.

Pat Houck and Liz Furman.

Star Jones and Meichelle Bernard.

Kate Martin and Samantha Hornbeck.

Gabe Kohn and Simon Hornbeck.

Nancy Malke and Sandy Kelley.

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OUT &

Austin Elementary School students celebrated their 100th day of school by dressing up and participating in special activities.

ABOUT IN THE HEART BRAZOS

Kinder teacher Bridget Helmcamp with students Leighton Lara, Lilyann Herbst, Carlee Hein, Cerenity Aguirre, Sydney Pesek, Lucas Wright, Simeon Silva, Jake Dulin, Peyton Crouch, Penelope Mandujano, Alexa Cortemelia, Liana Lara, Brooke Snow-Henry, Dominic Caruso, Ethan Bernal, Emma Givens, Colby Cross and Miles Lowery.

Kinder teacher Amy Lemos with students Elizabeth Arcement, Lyla Kean, Kendall Williams, Jeanaliz Garcia, Lily O’Dell, Brooke Prince, Abby Blackmon, Emmalee Hoffman, Khloe Daniels, Emalee Marchesano, Dominic Soza, Alex Janakos, Parker Allen, Noah Brito, Aiden Hartley, Liam Dirks, Bentley Hughes and Cole Carrejo.

Students at The Goddard School in Richmond celebrated Valentine’s Day with festive classroom parties.

Lacie Sechelski and Paisley Bennetsen.

Art teacher Mary Jean DuVal recently inducted several new members into Calvary Episcopal Preparatory’s chapters of the National Art Honor Society and the National Junior Art Honor Society.

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APRIL 2016 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

Sarah Nguyen, Anya Gerdes, Hailey Maierhofer, Ryanne Dobbs, Angelo Paca, Joey Cook, Simon Harper, Monica Pena, Reese McBride, Nicole Sampson, Leo Wall and Mary Jean DuVal.

Child Advocates of Fort Bend held their annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner to recognize volunteers and thank them for their service. Celebrating 25 years, Child Advocates of Fort Bend uses specially trained volunteers and staff to advocate on behalf of abused and neglected children.

Photos courtesy of Sue Lockwood.

Ruthanne Mefford, Jenny Joseph, Lianna Estrada and Fiona Remko.

Cynthia Barratt, Dana Clement and Krystal Vann.

Jerry and Brenda Tomasello.

Kay Garrett and Wendy Calvert.

Farha Ahmed, Jarret Nethery and Sue Lockwood.

Gillian and Tom Cooke.

Fort Bend resident Cyndia Rodriguez recently conducted a free introductory Zumba class at the George Memorial Library supporting Vincent Morales for County Commissioner Precinct 1.

Working out together were Carly Capper Talamantes, Ariana Cruz, Carol Jimenez, Cyndia Rodriguez, Janie Castillo, Anabel Gomez, Shelley Collier, Yasmin Olivares, Alexa Goldstein, Veronica Munoz, Cherie Vasquez and Marinela and Caleb Taylor.

More than 120 people packed the lobby of OakBend Medical Center for the Central Fort Bend Chamber’s Breakfast in the Bend, attracting business owners, elected officials and community leaders to network and hear updates on developments coming to Rosenberg that will garner more business in the coming years.

Randall Malik with the Rosenberg Development Corporation educated the group on the 143 acre Rosenberg Business Park that will be located at FM 2218, along with the Paragon Outlet Mall at the intersection of Reading Road and Interstate 69.

Jeff Haley, Randall Malik, Regina Morales and Joe Freudenberger.

www.absolutelybrazos.com l APRIL 2016

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OUT &

The Fort Bend Museum hosted an opening reception of the new exhibit Fran Knueppel: A Retrospective, which ran through March 5th.

ABOUT IN THE HEART BRAZOS

Barbara Johnson and Judi Vernon with Alycia and Tom Gorman.

The Central Fort Bend Chamber kicked off its educational Working Lunch series on Thursday, January 21st at the Rosenberg Civic Center with Derek Finley, CFP of WJ Interests, LLC. The presentation was entitled Big Changes to Social Security and Medicare. Nearly 50 attended to learn more about those changes and future impact on benefits.

Brian, Keely, Jack and Reagan Knipling.

Debra and Earnest Sharp.

Melody Hess and Robin Rosen.

Fran Knueppel and Shereen Sampson.

Brandon Arns, Derek Finley and Farrah Gandhi.

Amber Killian, Caroline Martin and Jessica Avery.

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APRIL 2016 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

Joyce Long’s

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1st Tuesday Wine Club 2nd Wednesday BINGO 2nd Friday Karaoke Music on the Patio/Wine Room

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Texas Insurance & Financial Services, Inc. has been serving the needs of friends and neighbors since 1977. We represent dozens of local and national insurance companies and offer customized insurance packages, including:

Commercial Insurance Life & Health Insurance Umbrella Coverage Workers Compensation 9006 Main Street • Needville, TX 77461 979-793-2827 • www.txins.com

MARKETPLACE

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A LITTLE PIECE O F H I S T O RY

Images from The End and the Myth.

By Joan Frances

T

he word “cowboy” conjures up the image of a strong, burley, unshaven cattle rustler chewing tobacco and wearing a wide-brimmed hat and chaps. His home is outdoors next to a roaring fire, and in the morning, he sips strong coffee and waits for the sun to come up to continue his cattle drive through hundreds of miles of country. These glamorized images are etched into our minds because of mythological folklore and the magic of the movies, but they are a far cry from the reality of the cattle business. Life was tough for the Texas cowboy.

By the end of the Civil War, there were an estimated five million cattle roaming freely in Texas. The golden age of the cowboy lasted for 20 years from 1866 to 1886. During this time, a steer worth $4 in Texas sold for $40 in the north, which advocated the trip hundreds of miles to deliver 1,000 to 2,000 cattle for a substantial profit. A cowboy’s best friend was his horse. They were virtually inseparable, working together to herd the cattle for long hours of the day and night.

Two major events kept the cowboy busy all year: the roundup and the long drive. Roundups were held in the spring and often in the fall. Cattle were herded to a central location, where they were branded, castrated and dehorned. The long drive entailed a 20 hour day, driving the animals from one watering place to the next, protecting them against predators and stampedes and redirecting strayed cattle. Farmers and Indians resented the cattle drive, because they trampled

A trick roper nimbly stepped in and out of a small rope circle as he twirled a larger one over his head during a rodeo in 1925.

48

Singing cowboy Gene Autry strumming a tune while sitting astride his horse Champion.

their crops. As a result of the animals overgrazing, plant life was damaged. Texas Fever, a fatal disease, spread through longhorn cattle during cattle drives, forced the government to implement quarantine laws and limited transport to Kansas and other states. Outlaws stole cattle, often attacking by surprise, and killed anyone who was in their way. All of the risk and time awarded these brave souls a salary from $25 to $40 a month.

The cowboy in Fort Bend County lived a different lifestyle.

Around 1890, the railroads expanded across the plains and new trails emerged, making travel and transport easier for the cowboy and eliminating the need for long cattle drives.

Ranch owners began fencing the land using barbed wire to disclose the landowner’s boundaries and to keep the cattle safe on the land. This put an end to the open-range cattle industry as the working ranch cowboy began to evolve. His job, while still necessary, was lessened to riding a haymow, mending fences, calf roping and applying medicines to sick cattle. Semi-annual roundups still occurred where cowboys representing several ranches rendezvoused to round up all of the cattle they could find in the area. They herded cattle to a central place and drove them back to a home range.

Cowboys were also given the job of branding all of the livestock. As early as 1838, Fort Bend County was registering brand and earmarks to designate ownership of livestock.

Metal brands were created with anything from initials, numbers or pictures to identify the owner. Branding was important to ranchers. A rancher could claim any non-branded livestock found on the property.

The Texas cowboy will always be considered a legend. Today’s Texas cowboy still rides a horse but pulls a horse trailer behind his pick-up. He uses a small airplane to survey the land but still wears the clothes outfitted over 100 years ago.

His legacy and style will continue to live on for many years to come.

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