June 2016 - Absolutely Brazos Magazine

JUNE 2016

Serving Richmond, Rosenberg, Fulshear & Needville

Blushing

Brides Taylor Wleczyk

Lone Star STOMP Fort Bend's

CULTURAL

HERITAGE

Great Gifts for

DADS & GRADS

You’ve spent months balancing your chakras and your diet.

It’s time to be a VIP.

Here, you’ll get the Very Important Pregnancy treatment.

At the new Family Birthing Center at CHI St. Luke’s Health–Sugar Land Hospital, we believe everyone deserves to get exceptional care in an atmosphere that feels more home than hospital.

R Couplet Care R Nurse Navigator R Celebratory Parents’ Meal R Daily Tea & Treat Service R Luxury Linens, Robe & Baby Sleep Sack R Complimentary Valet Sign up to be a VIP and schedule a tour at VeryImportantPregnancy.org/SugarLand

Family Birthing Center

INSIDE FRONT

BeautyBecomesYou.com Get Ready for Summer Specials to help you look your best and feel confident for swimsuit season

Cellfina

Available exclusively at Sugar Land Face and Body a breakthrough procedure to reduce the appearance of cellulite Now $500 off

50% Fat Reduction Offers good through June 30th Call today to schedule your complimentary consultation 281.313.0555

281•313•0555 16926 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77479 Like us on Facebook

BeautyBecomesYou.com

Before

After Two Years

Before

After Two Years

Eric Humble, M.D.

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Voted Top Doc 3 years in a row

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

Ask These 10 Questions To Make Sure Your Dentist Stacks Up 1

6

2 7 3

8 4 9 5 10

Tim Cashion, DDS

Teresa Cody, DDS

mydentist@candcdental.com A $25.00 flat fee for an x-ray & consultation A $74.00 value Low cost way to find out what’s wrong (Does not include cleaning)

Formerly Cashion & Cody Family Dentistry and Orthodontics

17003 SW Freeway, Suite 100, Sugar Land, TX 77479

www.candcdental.com www.candcortho.com

Call us now!

281-377-1944

CONTRIBUTORS

JUNE 2016

|

VOLUME 4

|

NUMBER 7

Joan Frances Contributor Pages 20 & 32

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NEWSWORTHY 24 OAKBEND MEDICAL CENTER

Announces 2016 Patchwork of Life: Mending Lives Stitch by Stitch

IN EVERY ISSUE 6 EXCLAMATION POINTS! 21 COMMUNITY EVENTS 22 SEEN ON THE SCENE Aaron & Moriah Hlavaty.

26 OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART OF BRAZOS

Photo by Fulleylove Photography.

COVER FEATURE

31 COMMUNITY MARKETPLACE

9 BLUSHING BRIDES Real Weddings of Brazos

These five blushing brides – and their beaus – have ties to the Brazos area.

Peruse the pages, view their wedding details and even get some ideas for your big day!

F E AT U R E S 30 DADS & GRADS

Things We Love – Just for Dads & Grads!

COLUMNS 20 HIGH SCHOOL HOT SHOT Meet Amanda Vignes

32 A LITTLE PIECE OF HISTORY Fort Bend County: A Fusion of Culture and Traditions

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

ON THE COVER: Taylor Wleczyk.

Photography by Impressions By Leslie.

SCHEDULE TODAY!

Primary Care.

Where you go makes a differenCe.

Adelola Ashaye, MD Family Medicine

Kerry Laursen, MD Family Medicine

Jessen Rajan, MD Family Medicine Malayalam & Spanish

8330 Hwy. 6, Suite 110 Missouri City, TX 77459

Vandana Khera, MD Internal Medicine Hindi & Punjabi

Deepshikha Sharda, DO Family Medicine Hindi

Now Located in Riverstone 18717 S. University Blvd., Suite 105 Sugar Land, TX 77479

Adrianne Scruggs, MD Internal Medicine

4660 Sweetwater Blvd.

Suite 210 Sugar Land, TX 77479

Houston Methodist Primary Care Group is dedicated to providing high quality and compassionate care to the Fort Bend community. These physicians have extensive training and experience in diagnosing and treating patients with a caring, hands-on, family-oriented approach.

Our practices offer: • Online scheduling • Patient portal for secure communication with your care team

• Same day appointments • Convenient locations

Easily schedule online at houstonmethodist.org/pcg or call 713.394.6638.

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

Summertime: Making Memories Just as June marks the beginning of summer, it also marks a tradition of blissful memories at absolutely! Brazos: our summer wedding issue. I love this issue where we feature the beautiful brides and weddings in our community. Over the years, I’ve heard so many words of wisdom passed down from generations regarding what makes a successful marriage. One of my favorites isn’t necessarily about sustaining a good marriage; it’s about the attitude going in. Winston Churchill said, “My most brilliant achievement was Tim and Patti Kaminski at the my ability to be able to persuade my wife to marry Lone Star Stomp benefiting me.” The Churchill’s were married for more than 56 the Fort Bend County Museum Association. years with Winston preceding his beloved Clementine, mother of their five children, in death.

Personally, I think appreciating what you have goes a long way!

Appreciating Dad is what June is all about! As we celebrate dads this month, take a peek at our Dads & Grads Gift Guide on page 30. You’re sure to find something special to show Dad how much he’s appreciated all year long.

To all of our Brazos Dads, we absolutely wish you a wonderful Father’s Day. Relax, take the day off and make some memories. You’ll be glad you did! absolutely! focus media was honored to receive special recognition for their contribution to the Fort Bend Family YMCA at the organization’s 2016 Annual Campaign event. The Fort Bend Family YMCA was the beneficiary of the 2015 GEMS of Fort Bend event.

Absolutely! yours,

Patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Vol. 4 No. 7 June 2016 4655 TECHNIPLEX DR. STE. 700 STAFFORD, TX 77477 281-690-4242 WWW.ABSOLUTELYBRAZOS.COM

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 CONTRIBUTOR Joan Frances 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

READER FEEDBACK Nice article about Oakbend’s Acute Care of the Elderly (ACE) Unit in the April issue of absolutely! Brazos.

Owen Capocyan Thank you Dr. Capocyan. We loved working with you and OakBend!

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

Published by

Subscription requests are free to West Fort Bend area addresses. Annual paid subscription of $25 required outside West Fort Bend area. 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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Women’s Center

at Sugar Land

Compassionate, Comprehensive Care for Women

Brian R. Heaps, MD

Azeema Moosa, MD

Board Certified Ob/Gyn

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

Achieve the

www.UTPhysicians.com

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

Restore your smile with cosmetic dentistry!

after

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 8

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

Ryan & Gina Callard May 2, 2015

Aaron & Moriah Hlavaty July 25, 2015

Bradford & Danielle Harrison August 28, 2015

Jerry & Beverly Villarreal October 3, 2015

Nick & Taylor Wleczyk November 14, 2015

If you or your children have married within the last year and reside in the Brazos area, and you would like to enter for a chance to be featured in our next Here Comes The Bride, complete the “Wedding Form� at www.absolutelyBrazos.com and e-mail at least 10 high-resolution photos of the ceremony and/or reception to sarah@ absolutelyfocusmedia.com. To guarantee your wedding details make it into our next Here Comes The Bride, place your engagement or wedding announcement in absolutely! Brazos. Photographers are also welcome to submit photos.

Wedding Couple: Ryan & Gina Callard Photo by Lindsay Elizabeth Photography

www.absolutelybrazos.com l JUNE 2016

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Ryan & Gina Callard May 2, 2015

Details

Photos by Lindsay Elizabeth Photography

Bride’s Full Name: Gina Marie Raimondo Groom’s Full Name: Ryan Jon Callard Wedding Site: St. John’s Methodist Church Reception Site: The Swinging Door Rehearsal Dinner Site: Cafe Adobe Videography: Pocket Square Films Wedding Planner: The Bride Officiant: Ben Trammell Gown: Tara Keely Veil: Handmade by Mother of Bride Shoes: Ivory Heels with Pearls, Crystals and Rhinestones Jewelry: Nadri Pearl and Zirconia - Dillard’s Hair: Makeup Texas Makeup: Makeup Texas Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal Formalwear: Men’s Wearhouse Invitations: Designed by Brother of the Bride Andrew Raimondo Flowers: Ivory Roses and White Hydrangeas - Kroger Floral Catering: The Swinging Door Cake: Three-Tiered White Cake - Kroger Bakery Music: MixDoctors DJ Favors: Can Koozies Designed by Brother of the Bride Accommodations: Hampton Inn Richmond Honeymoon: Sandals Whitehouse - Jamaica

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

Your Premier Event Facility

WEDDINGS | GALAS | CORPORATE MEETINGS | SPECIAL EVENTS

Safari Texas Ranch 281.277.7888

11627 FM 1464, Richmond, Texas 77407 www.safaritexasballroom.com | e-mail: events@safaritexasballroom.com www.absolutelybrazos.com l JUNE 2016

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Aaron & Moriah Hlavaty July 25, 2015

Details

Photos by Fulleylove Photography

Bride’s Full Name: Moriah Ann Butler Groom’s Full Name: Aaron Blake Hlavaty Wedding Site: Bethel Church of Houston Reception Site: Minute Maid Park, Union Station Rehearsal Dinner Site: Pappasito’s Cantina Officiant: Nathan Hansen Gown: Weddings By Debbie Veil: Weddings By Debbie Shoes: Pink Paradox London Jewelry: Charming Charlie and Pearl Necklace from Mother Hair: Vance Lee Makeup: Shades Salon Bridesmaid Dresses: Weddings By Debbie Formalwear: Calvin Klein Invitations: Gatherings Flowers: A Particular Event Catering: Aramark Cake: Edible Designs by Jessie Music: Jonny Black Productions Favors: Cracker Jacks Transportation: The Original Trolley & Limousine Company Accommodations: The Westin Houston Downtown Honeymoon: Sandals Ochi - Jamaica

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

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 Check us out on Facebook! www.absolutelybrazos.com l JUNE 2016

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Bradford & Danielle Harrison August 28, 2015

Details

Photos by George Street Bridal

Bride’s Full Name: Danielle Nicole Garcia Groom’s Full Name: Bradford Davis Harrison Wedding Site: Camp Lucy - Ian’s Chapel Reception Site: Camp Lucy Rehearsal Dinner Site: Chuy’s Videography: George Street Bridal Wedding Planner: Kim Hunt Officiant: Katrina Baechet Gown: Essence of Australia Veil: Houston Bridal Gallery Shoes: Guess Hair: April Monroe and Associates Makeup: April Monroe Formalwear: Men’s Wearhouse Invitations: Minted Flowers: Camp Lucy Catering: Best Wurst, Camp Lucy Cake: Sweet Treets Bakery Music: Infinity Sound Lab Honeymoon: Excellence Playa Mujeres - Mexico

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

CAMPBELL GARRETT DISTINCTIVE HOMES

Your Land. Our Expertise.

Plan design service, builder showroom & precision craftmanship...

Campbell Garrett Distinctive Homes makes it easy for you to build the perfect place to call home.

Building throughout Fort Bend County, Houston and beyond!

207 Morton Street • Richmond, TX • Call: 832-865-3444 • www.CampbellGarrett.com

A COLLABORATIVE, INNOVATIVE APPROACH TO NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS AND SPINE CARE. Disorders and diseases of the brain and spine require specialized expertise and a multi-disciplinary approach to diagnosis and treatment.

At Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Neuroscience & Spine Center, our board-certified physicians work together to provide comprehensive, personalized care, designed to help patients return to a productive lifestyle.

We offer expedited appointments, including second opinions, with our highly regarded specialists.

TO BEGIN YOUR PERSONAL TREATMENT PLAN CALL: 281.274.7979 • EMAIL: neuroscience@houstonmethodist.org Our team of neurosurgeons, neurologists, orthopedic spine surgeons and interventional pain specialists treat a wide variety of disorders including:

• • • • • • • •

Alzheimer’s and Memory Disorders Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Back and Neck Pain Brain and Spinal Tumors Epilepsy and Seizures Migraines and Headaches Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Muscle and Nerve Injuries

• • • •

Muscular Atrophy Myasthenia Gravis Neuromuscular Disorders Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders • Peripheral Neuropathy • Sleep Disorders • Stroke

houstonmethodist.org/sugarland Please note, email is not a secure means to communicate personal identification, i.e. social security number, date of birth, financial information, etc.

www.absolutelybrazos.com l JUNE 2016

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Jerry & Beverly Villarreal October 3, 2015

Details

Photos by Sandra Vasques

Bride’s Full Name: Beverly Torres Groom’s Full Name: Jerry Villarreal Wedding Site: Holy Rosary Catholic Church Reception Site: East Bernard Riverside Hall Wedding Planner: Beverly Torres Officiant: Father Bill Bartniski Gown: Organza Ruffle Skirt Ball Dress by Oleg Cassini Veil: David’s Bridal Shoes: De Blossum Collection Jewelry: Hairlooms of Mother and Grandmother Hair: Alyss Mata Makeup: Alyss Mata Bridesmaid Dresses: Casa Victoria Formalwear: Men’s Wearhouse Invitations: Sandra Vasques Flowers: Lucy’s Florist & Tuxedo Catering: Ben’s Chuckwagon Cake: Lucy’s Florist & Tuxedo Music: DJ Allstars Favors: Red Rose Petals, Red and White Crystals Transportation: 2014 Dodge Charger Honeymoon: Corpus Christi, San Juan and San Antonio, Texas

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

Vincent Luan, DDS

Alice Luan, DDS

Katy Jones, DDS

Comprehensive pediatric dental care for infants, children and teens The highest standard of excellence in both cleanliness and dental services

Saturday Appointments Available

80

$

Exam, X-rays & Cleaning for New Patients.

Must present ad. Expires June 30, 2016.

Must be under the age of 13.

Creating Healthy Smiles One at a Time...

Most PPO Insurances Accepted

CALL 281-238-GRIN (4746)

Laughing Gas, Oral Sedation, IV Sedation, General Anesthesia, White Fillings & Crowns FM

to Schedule an Appointment www.childrensdentistryoftexas.com

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MAIN ST

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JAC

1601 Main St. #307 Richmond, TX 77469

Located next to OakBend Medical Center on Hwy. 90

Got Tickets?

Join us on Facebook

facebook.com/AbsolutelyBrazos CommunityMagazine

“Like” Us Today!

Win ticket giveaways to area attractions and events!

Stationery Hot Stamping

Gifts Greeting Cards

Invitations Scanning

Fathers = Boundless Love Cards, Gifts and More...

8030 FM 359 South, Fulshear, TX 77441 Phone: 281-536-4900 www.frecklescentral.com www.absolutelybrazos.com l JUNE 2016

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Nick & Taylor Wleczyk November 14, 2015

Details

Photos by Impressions By Leslie

Bride’s Full Name: Taylor Tondre Groom’s Full Name: Nick Wleczyk Wedding Site: Holy Rosary Catholic Church Reception Site: Needville KC Hall Rehearsal Dinner Site: Ol’ Railroad Cafe Videography: Rhyne Acuff Officiant: Father Jamie Abercrombie Gown: Impression Bridal Shoes: DSW Hair: Visible Changes Bridesmaid Dresses: Alfred Angelo Formalwear: Men’s Wearhouse Invitations: David’s Bridal Flowers: Flowers By Adela Catering: Schulze’s Bar-B-Que Cake: Bessie’s Bakery - Kathy Warnecke Music: Jeannie Bryant Decorations and Rentals: Elegant Occasions Accommodations: SpringHill Suites Honeymoon: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

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JUNE 2016 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.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

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

For appointments call:

832-886-4994

832-886-4774

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

providing loving expert care State-of-the-Art Medical & Surgical Equipment Highly Skilled & Caring Professionals Early Disease Detection Program

to keep your pet healthy & happy

Hours:

Complete Wellness Care Dentistry & Surgery Diagnostic & Medical Care Early Morning Drop-offs

Mon. and Fri. 7am - 8pm Tues. - Thurs. 7am - 6pm Sat. 8am - 1pm

832-363-1227 4716 FM 359 Richmond, TX

www.fcvethospital.com Dr. Michael Moore

Dr. Mark Buvinghausen

Dr. Megan Dunn

www.absolutelybrazos.com l JUNE 2016

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High School HOT SHOT

By Joan Frances

Meet Amanda Vignes

L

amar Consolidated Independent School District sets the bar high for students to graduate with the highest standard of education. With highly qualified teachers, Lamar Consolidated High School takes pride in assuring students learn from a well-rounded curriculum. One senior who has achieved an impressive resume is Amanda Vignes.

Amanda has taken Advanced Placement (AP) classes all of her high school career. Her forte is theater, and she has devoted her four years of high school to perfecting the craft. As an actress, Amanda has participated in play production and set design at school. She was engaged in the University Interscholastic League (UIL) One Act Play and was awarded Best Actress at the district competition last year, as well as Best Actress for her performance at Mustang Playhouse. She was also given Honorable Mention All Star Cast at the One Act Play competition and was a national qualifier at the International Thespian Society competition last summer.

Amanda was vice president of the thespians and a High School Leadership participant.

When asked what being a leader means to her, Amanda said, “To me, it means being able to make a difference in my fellow artists’ lives, and that is priceless. To take part in another person’s artistic process is incredibly humbling. When you are engaged in a process like that, you become part of that person.

As I have watched underclassmen grow over the past two years, they

Amanda have claimed a special place in my heart. They’ve become some of my best friends, and they trust me and come to me for advice both on stage and off. The fact that they trust me enough to make me a part of their lives both professionally and personally means the world to me. Human connection is one of the things that mean the most to me, so being a leader at Mustang Playhouse and the thespians is absolutely priceless.”

One value that Amanda lives by is humility. “Growing up, my parents always taught me to appreciate everything that has been given to me, so as I have gone on this rollercoaster called high school, I have always kept that in mind. I am blessed to have amazing people by my side who have guided me through this journey, and I hope to always have people like them in my life.

They have been absolutely amazing to me, and I never want to take that for granted.

“I have had two major influences in my life, Mr. Thomas Oliver and Ms. Julie McCain. Both of these teachers believe in me and who I am as a student and person. Without them, I would not be the person I am today. I had Mr. Oliver, my Social Studies teacher, at the beginning of my high school career, and he shaped me into a student who wants to learn, who is tolerant and has a deeper understanding for people besides what they simply appear to be.

Ms. McCain taught me during my junior year in her English III AP class, and I learned how to be confident in who I am and in my academic accolades. These two are the dynamic duo. If you take one course, you have to take the other. They are two of my absolute favorite people, and I plan to stay in contact with them as long as possible.”

In the fall, Amanda will attending Fairleigh Dickinson University in New Jersey. She will major in acting but also will work in design. Congratulations on your talent and insightful qualities Amanda, and good luck as you fulfill your dreams.

“Human connection is one of the things that mean the most to me, so being a leader at Mustang Playhouse and the thespians is absolutely priceless.”

– Amanda Vignes

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

EVENTS

Better Balance | Healthy Joints | Strong Bones

Strength & Stability “I have multiple sclerosis. After several sessions, I have better balance and strength.”

June 3rd and 4th, 11 am – 1 pm Tea Parties at the 1883 Historic Moore Home Join the Fort Bend Museum’s annual tea parties at the historic 1883 home of Congressman John and Lottie Moore, located at 500 Houston Street in Richmond. Guests will receive lessons in the history of tea and proper tea etiquette, life in the Moore Home during the Edwardian Period, a tour of the historic house and more while sampling a delicious array of savories and sweets. The cost for this event is $15 for Museum members and $18 for non-members. Contact 281-342-6478 or e-mail javery@fortbendmuseum.org.

– Vickie E.

Power Plate • Increase Circulation • Muscle Recruitment • Whole Body Vibration • Enhanced Metabolism

Bio Density • Strong Bones • Healthy Joints • Better Balance • Increased Bone Density

June 6th, Noon Bookworm Book Club Join in the discussion of Joan Harris’s book Five Quarters of an Orange at the Albert George Library, located at 9230 Gene Street in Needville.

Visit www.fortbend.lib.tx.us.

We can help you!

June 20th, 10:30 am The Arc of Fort Bend Golf Classic Support The Arc of Fort Bend with their Golf Classic event at the Weston Lakes County Club, located at 32611 FM 1093 in Fulshear. Get a team together and enjoy a day of golfing while supporting an amazing organization.

Visit www.acroffortbend.org/golf.classic.

“Helping clients to true wellness is my goal.”

June 24th, 7 – 9 pm Music in the Park Bring the whole family to the Wessendorff Park Gazebo, located at 500 Preston Street in Richmond, for music by Sean Heyl! Bring your chairs, blankets and snacks to enjoy an evening of music. Visit www.richmondtx.gov.

Wanda Kolkhorst Owner, Certified Session Coach Like us on facebook.com/ OsteoStrongRichmond

Call 281-762-0944 1876 FM 359 | Richmond, TX www.OsteoStrong.me

www.absolutelybrazos.com l JUNE 2016

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Seen on the Scene

Catch the

2016 Reading Between the Wines Benefiting the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County April 1, 2016 • Safari Texas Ranch

Wave of

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n F u r Summe at

GKA Gingerbread Kids’ Academy

All-Day Summer Camp Program June 6th – August 19th Monday – Friday 6:30 am – 6:30 pm K-5th Grade 281-239-2110 • www.gbkidsacademy.com

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Photos by Mary Favre and Liz Furman.

Camp

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Manish & Namita Asthana Kay & Barry Beard Lawren Eckhardt & Ray Aguilar Patti & Tim Kaminski Len Roslen, Mary Karr & Arlene Rolsen Jackie & Don Kerstetter Steve Metzenthin with Lillie & Chris Beaux Amy Mitchell & Gordon Berkstresser

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

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Where Children Learn and Grow

Camp

GKA

acky Science •W Adventures • Art & Dance Groovy Games • Wood g • n Worki puters & Movie • Video Games, Com s M y a c dness si • Read ing Librar • Mu Water Days • Splis h s a l h Sp $20 Off week a • Field Registration Trips 2x !

Fee e r with this ad • Much Mo • S u pe

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Conveniently Located Near:

www.absolutelybrazos.com l JUNE 2016

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GREATWOOD SUBDIVISION

76

Bonbrook Briarwood Crossing 9 76 Brazos Y5 HW 2 Town Center Bridlewood Estates Greatwood .

REA RD DIN ITE River Park West G ON RD N N .

ME River’s Run 7/ 297 Summer Lakes M F D. NR The Oaks of Rosenberg TO N BE The Reserve Walnut Creek

RIVER PARK WEST

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Bridget Yeung & Nell Ciancarelli with Lucia & Larry Street David Timmermeyer & Sonal Buchar John & Diana Null Janet Meyer, Bill Statton & Gena Horak Russell & Jamie Hill Alexa Goldstein & Ariana Cruz Nancy & Pete Olson Bob & Pat Hebert Liz Furman & Alicen Swift Ann Smith & Betty Baitland

814 FM 2977 281-239-2110 Richmond www.gbkidsacademy.com tim@gbkidsacademy.com 77469

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Seen on the Scene

NEWSWORTHY

The Lone Star Stomp Benefiting the Fort Bend County Museum Association April 16, 2016 • George Ranch Historical Park

OakBend Medical Center Announces 2016 Patchwork of Life: Mending Lives Stitch by Stitch

Patchwork Committee members Alicen Swift, Libby King, Norma Petrosewicz, Becky Valadez, Joe Freudenberger, Rachelle Kanak, Beth Wolf, Linda Drummond, May Tape, Monica Mondrik, Noell Myska, Donna Jameson, Carolyn and James Steenbergen, Deidre Doggett and Jesse Regalado.

The 2016 Patchwork of Life event is set for Thursday, October 13th at Safari Texas Ranch. This year’s beneficiary is the Emergency Care Center at OakBend’s Jackson Street location. The fundraising goal for this event is $300,000, but the committee led by May Tape, DDS and Beth Wolf hopes to raise more.

The funds raised will bring the most advanced concepts for a healing environment to the Jackson Street Emergency Care Center. Almost 20,000 patients are treated at this location each year. A hospital can be a scary, stressful time – particularly during an emergency. Studies demonstrate that hospitals can reduce stress and improve patient outcomes by creating a warmer setting. By creating this type of environment in the Emergency Care Center, OakBend can better serve the people of Fort Bend County.

The Polly Ryon Memorial volunteers have been named as the honorees for the October event. Each day, the volunteers can be found working throughout the hospital, greeting patients, transporting patients and volunteering in various departments such as pharmacy, obstetrics, outpatient surgery and much more.

Pat Hebert has been named as the honorary chair for the 2016 Patchwork of Life event. Last year, Hebert was named the honoree for the event and was the chair for the first and second Patchwork of Life fundraisers.

Visit www.oakbendmedcenter.org/patchwork-of-life to become a sponsor, donor or to purchase tickets for the event.

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Laurel Wendt & Mike Phillips Regina & Vincent Morales Jennie & Roger Adamson Heather Hernandez & Alisa Merritt Carol Kalinowski, Diane Cario & Larrell Wenzel Donna Kay Tucker & Billie Wendt Janice & Justin Klump Jim & Kay Garrett 8

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Dr. Katia Lemke, DMD 9

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Orthodontic Specialist

• Free Orthodontic Exam & Consultation • Insurance & Flexible Financing Available • Braces for Children & Adults • Advanced Orthodontic Treatment with & Lingual Braces

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281.277.3555 www.lemkeortho.com 4907 Sandhill Dr., Suite B • Sugar Land, TX 77479 Located at Highway 90 & Grand Parkway

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Claire Rogers & Jennifer Farrell Mandi & Chris Bronsell Keith & Ammie Blahuta Suntera Scott & Walleen Williams Carl & Judy Cox Sylvia & John Zerwas Joe & Doris Gurecky with Janice & Bill Knight Wes & Teri Vela

absolutely! Brazos Magazine wants to provide readers with the best community feature magazine possible.

We want to focus on our READERS and mail exclusively to residents who invite us into their home.

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OUT & ABOUT

The Gingerbread Kids’ Academy helped sponsor the Rosenberg Police Explorers Post 2120’s trip to Austin for the Explorer competition. The Explorers group is comprised of youth ages 14 to 20 who wish to “explore” a career in law enforcement and gain leadership skills and community service experience.

The Gingerbread Kids’ Academy appreciates the service these young men and women provide for our community.

IN THE HEART BRAZOS

Jose Ramirez, Tim Kaminski, Davon Ramirez, Sabas Cortez, Alexis Dimas, Gabriella DeLeon, Tomas Ramirez, Billy Hammack and Daryl Segura.

Friends of Child Advocates of Fort Bend hosted Mission & Martinis, an evening with martinis, camaraderie and light bites at the Sienna Plantation home of Fheryl and Grady Prestage. Attendees learned about the mission of Friends of Child Advocates of Fort Bend and enjoyed a spring fashion show.

Peggy Jackson, Alison Haralson and Linda Day.

Mary Favre, Mary Worley and Lisa Moore.

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Fheryl and Grady Prestage.

Dorine Craig and Zeenat Mitha.

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Anne Bulan and Linda Page.

Carol McDonough, Gail Pawlowski and Jessica Kij.

AccessHealth volunteers and staff kicked off the 2016 Heart of Fort Bend with a reception at Fernando’s Steakhouse in Sugar Land. The event is scheduled for Thursday, October 27th at Safari Texas.

Carol Edwards.

Sharonda DeBose, Kay Garrett and Barbara Benes.

Evalyn Moore and Tim Kaminski.

Alexa Goldstein and David Timmermeyer.

Betty Baitland and Hillary Goldstein.

Patti Parish-Kaminski and Cindy Reaves.

On March 21st, the YMCAs of Fort Bend County, which include the Fort Bend, Katy and TW Davis YMCAs, held their 10th Annual Spring Golf Classic and Auction. Over 130 golfers participated in the event, which netted the YMCA a record-breaking $63,000 for its local Annual Support Campaign.

Jessie Parkins, Stella Gaskin, Zharia Clark, Maggie Ochoa, Ed Conner, Barbara Jones, Pam Filip, Martin Morcho, Holly Kaminga, Jess Stuart, Thomas Gonzales, Bill Myers, Rose Gonzales and Victoria, Corrion and Mia Brasher.

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Photo by Bob Daemmrich.

OUT &

Fort Bend leaders recently gathered with others throughout the state at the 6th Annual Republican Party of Texas Austin Legislative Dinner held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Austin.

ABOUT IN THE HEART BRAZOS

Amy Clark, Dan Patrick, George P. Bush, Glenn Hegar, Christi Craddick, Ken Paxton, Ryan Sitton, Tom Mechler, Regina Morales, Greg Abbott and Vincent M. Morales, Jr. Legacy Ford supported the 2016 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (HLSR) by purchasing school art by talented Houston area students and championship wine in the HLSR auctions, helping to provide funds for scholarships for deserving Texas students.

Ron and Juliana Ewer proudly displayed Tough Love by student Marcos Garcia and Pondering on the Prairie by student Amy Yang at Legacy Ford for customers to view.

D&S Antiques & Collectibles Mall •in Historical Downtown Rosenberg•

Enjoy The Sights & Sounds While You Shop Around!

D&S Refinishing & Restoration • Caning • Weaving • Some Reupholstery • Complete Repair and Refinishing Shop • Sewing Machine Repair • Scissor Sharpening Full Line of Howard Wood Care Products Like Us or Follow Us

Wed-Sat 10-5 Sun 12-5 • 801 2nd Street 281-232-0035 or 832-595-9600 Come shop with us, then explore Historic Downtown’s 3 restaurants and 12 other antique & boutique shops.

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Historic Downtown Rosenberg’s BR Vino hosted a reception featuring an art exhibit by local artist Cisco Kolkmeier.

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

Patti Parish-Kaminski and Cisco Kolkmeier.

The volunteers of OakBend Medical Center hosted Power of the Purse to raise funds for the renovation of the hospital’s Skilled Nursing Unit. The event featured lunch and a silent auction of 28 purses. Keynote speaker Sally Baskey brought out her alter-ego Ida Mae Fudpucker to poke fun at some of the guests and encourage them to give generously. With over 100 attendees, the event raised over $17,000.

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

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Amisha Patel, MD

Your Premier Water & Wastewater Services Partner Si Environmental, LLC

• Customer Care & 24-hour Dispatch • Customer Billing & Collections • Valve & Manhole Surveys • Valve Locating & Exercising • Manhole Adjustments & Repair • Smoke Testing & Infiltration Analysis • Flow Monitoring • Televising of Sewer Lines • Trenchless Line Repair • Risk Management Plans

• Pump & Motor Repair • Meter Reading • Welding • Lift Station Cleaning • Tapping & Inspections • Backflow Assembly Testing & Repair • Storm Water Inspection • Landscaping • Concrete • Pre-Treatment Assessments

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Cathey Olenick, Janelle Kucera, Deborah Kappes and Diane Box.

RosenbeRg Ccenter aRpet & FlooRing Since 1958

What’son on your your floor matters.

What’s floor matters!

Donna Ferguson, Sally Baskey and Linda Drummond.

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 JUNE 2016

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Dads&Grads Things We Love - Just for Dads & Grads!

LETTERS TO DAD From first time fathers to grandfathers or whoever you celebrate on Father’s Day, let Freckles help you find that perfect gift.

Freckles Stationery and Gifts, 8030 FM 359 South in Fulshear.

Call 281-536-4900; www.frecklescentral.com.

CLARISONIC SMART PROFILE This Smart-enabled, multipurpose cleansing device cleanses 11 times better than hands alone for smooth, clean skin from head to toe. It provides a powerful, professional cleanse at the push of a button.

Sugar Land Face & Body Plastic Surgery, 16926 Southwest Freeway in Sugar Land.

Call 281-313-0555; www.beautybecomesyou.com.

GRADUATION BLOOMS Send your congratulations and best wishes for the future to that special grad with a custom made bouquet from LC Floral Designs.

LC Floral Designs, 204 Highway 90A East in Richmond. Call 281-342-8839; www.lcfloraldesigns.com.

A CUTTING EDGE GIFT Every dad should have a great knife. This Father’s Day, treat Dad to a new pocket or hunting knife from D & S Antiques’ wide selection.

D & S Antiques, 801 2nd Street in Historic Downtown Rosenberg.

Call 281-232-0035.

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DRIVING IN STYLE It’s just what dads and grads always wanted: a new toy from Texas Direct Auto, the world’s largest independent dealership. With over 2,000 automobiles in stock, Texas Direct Auto is sure to have the perfect gift for Dad. Texas Direct Auto, 12053 Southwest Freeway in Stafford. Call 281-499-8200; www.TexasDirectAuto.com.

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Joyce Long’s

Mario’s

Colonic - Detox - Lymphatic

Wellness Institute

Paint & Body Shop

24 Hr. Wrecker Service • Custom paint • Clear Coat • Expert Color Matching • One Day Service

281-342-2198

1405 Jackson Street Richmond, Texas 77469

www.mariospaintandbody.com

Established 1989

Massage Therapies • Lymphatic Drainage Massage Lymphatic Facials • Reflexology • Infra Red Saunas Relaxing Ion Cleanse Hand & Foot Bath Chinese Cupping • Gift Certificates Colon Hydrotherapy by M.D. Prescription Only (Yours Or Ours) NEW FORT BEND LOCATION!

www.joycelong.biz Rosenberg’s Finest Wine Room

Kyalamlsi Kenne

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

Visit www.brvino.com for events • (832) 595-2881

Open Wed-Sun • Happy hour Wed-Fri 3-7 pm 1919 Avenue G • Historic Downtown Rosenberg 77471

281-498-HOPE (4673)

Brenda Slavinski Lopez, LPC

Ornamental Iron • Wood • Chain Link

2117 Avenue I, Rosenberg, TX 77471 www.fortbendccc.com

We offer services for individuals and families struggling with: • Anxiety • Depression • Panic Disorder • Adjustment Disorders • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

• Parenting Issues • Play Therapy • Child/Adolescent Behavior Problems • Family Relationship Difficulties

281.238.0735

www.apachefence.com

PSYCHIC

Tarot Cards & Crystal Readings Appointments Only

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Responsibility, Efficiently, Consistently.

Private Pre-K Pre-K 1 Ages 3 & 4 Pre-K 2 Ages 4 & 5

After-School programs on-site at Frost, 2417 4th Street, Rosenberg, TX 77471 Hutchison and www.gbhdaycare.com Hubenank Elementary.

Like Us On

Antiques Collectibles Home Decor Specialty Items Live Theatre Events Hall 1909 Avenue G. Rosenberg, Texas 77471 • 281.342.6804

Now Enrolling

CDA Certified Teacher

281.232.9583

Historic Downtown Rosenberg’s Premier Experience

Contact us today to schedule your FREE insurance review or quote

Amber McDonald amber@txins.com

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

MASTER

COMMUNITY

Dog boarding for all size dogs Dog grooming – all sizes

Cell: 713-548-6169 boarding@kyalamikennels.com www.kyalamikennels.com 7111, FM 723 Rd • Richmond 77406

281-344-0095

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Relaxing, healthy country environment for your best friend 281-394-5162

Joyce Long

Internationally Certified Colon Hydrotherapist & Instructor Nationally Certified Massage Therapist # ME0170 Services by appt only.

“Our clients become family and we are here to celebrate their WELLNESS”

A LITTLE PIECE O F H I S T O RY

By Joan Frances

Fort Bend County: A Fusion of Culture and Traditions

W

hen settlers came to live along the Brazos River in Fort Bend County in the early 1820s, the 300 families who received land grants from the Spanish Government had one thing in common: They were all a part of the Anglo-American colonization of Texas. This vague classification did not define the depth of nationalities that began to set roots and share in the multicultural heritage and traditions among the settlers.

By the time the British arrived in the New World, Spanish settlers already inhabited much of Texas. Along with Portugal, Spain dominated New World exploration and settled in Texas for a time. They left a deep mark of cultural diversity. The Spanish language influenced the names for many of the rivers, towns and counties that

Deborah and Michael Loque.

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Dennis and Martha Victori with Marvin Adamek at the annual Czech KolacheKlobase Festival in 2015.

still exist, and Spanish architecture is still prevalent. Natives of Ireland were among the first settlers of Spanishruled Texas. Four signed the Texas Declaration of Independence, and at least 100 were listed on the rolls at San Jacinto. In fact, many Irish were part of the original Old Three Hundred.

When Fort Bend began to grow and plantation economies developed, African American slaves were widespread.

By the 1850s, Fort Bend was one of six counties in the state with a majority African American population. By 1860, Fort Bend’s slave population was 4,127, more than twice the white population of 2,016. After slavery was abolished, many African Americans remained in the Rosenberg and Richmond areas.

By the 1900s, cultures that led to the state’s diversity included Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, Swiss, Syrian, Lebanese, Polish, French, Italian, Greek, Jewish, African American, Belgian, Indian, German, Norwegian, Spanish and Czech Texans. Along with sharing religious beliefs, business practices and traditions, residents took pride in sharing the unique food preparation of these cultures.

Today, numerous cultures commemorate their heritage in some celebratory fashion throughout the area. Early German colonists hosted festivals with beer, sausage, waltzes and polka bands, and the tradition continues today with Wurstfest and Octoberfest celebrations. Tortillas, tacos and enchiladas were a gift from Mexican citizens, and Cinco de Mayo is the day of praise. The Italians brought pizza, pasta and red wine and continue to celebrate during

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religious holidays. Korean and Vietnamese residents brought dishes that are still sampled at Asian-American festivals. The Chinese shared fried rice and egg rolls, and the Chinese New Year is celebrated as a day of thanks.

Greek festivals today boast delectable gyros, souvlaki, lamb, spanakopita, pastitso and more.

One event Fort Bend residents highly anticipate is the annual Czech Kolache-Klobase Festival held in East Bernard. As early as 1882, Czech immigrants came to the Fort Bend area optimistic and determined to start a new life. They settled near Germans and Poles with whom they shared tastes in food, music and politics. Czechs are very loyal to their traditions, teaching the language to their families and remaining devout Catholics.

For the past 26 years, East Bernard has hosted the Czech Kolache-Klobase Festival to share the traditions and food with the public. This year’s festivities will take place from 10:30 am to 8 pm on Saturday, June 11th at Riverside Hall in East Bernard. “Kolache,” which means “pocket,” is the term for the famous circular tart made of double-risen dough with a center topped or filled with a sweet sauce made of cottage cheese, prunes, peaches or other fruit filling.

One of the fastest growing counties in the country, Fort Bend is home to over 685,000 people of many different cultures. Every ethnic community is respected and appreciated. With such remarkable support, sharing its multicultural heritage will continue for years to come.

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