UpClose Magazine - August 2026

August 2026

Magazine

theDoc

Edition

A New Mobile Clinic.

A GREATER Community Impact.

by Alisha McMillen

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apital Health & Wellness, owned by brothers Dr. Salman Aly and Dr. Sarfraz Aly, has quietly operated its United Community Foundation (UCF), a nonprofit organization that expands healthcare access to Fort Bend and beyond, for several years. After seeing patients at the foundation’s Unity Clinic in Rosenberg for a few years, they are now taking healthcare out into the community with a new mobile health unit.

“Quality healthcare should be available to everyone, regardless of where they live or their circumstances,” says Dr. Salman Aly. “Our Mobile Health Unit allows us to bring compassionate, preventive care directly into the communities that need it most.”

The initiative will bring preventive and primary healthcare directly to underserved communities across Harris, Fort Bend, and Wharton Counties. It is designed to reduce barriers such as transportation, distance, and limited access to healthcare by delivering services where people live, work, and gather. The unit will partner with schools, faith-based organizations, community centers, libraries, and local nonprofits to provide convenient, community-based care.

“The Unity Clinic mobile health unit reflects UCF’s commitment to improving health equity by expanding access to quality healthcare and strengthening community partnerships throughout Southeast Texas,” Dr. Salman says.

Fort Bend County Proclamation On June 17, Dr. Salman Aly and Dr. Sarfraz Aly received a Proclamation from Fort Bend County Judge Daniel Wong recognizing their outstanding

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by Alisha McMillen

dedication, compassionate leadership, and unwavering service to the Fort Bend community through UCF/Unity Clinic.

The proclamation reads, in part: This honor reflects years of selfless commitment to improving the health and well-being of underserved individuals and families in Fort Bend County and beyond. Through their vision, kindness, and tireless efforts, Unity Clinic has become a beacon of hope, providing quality healthcare and changing countless lives across Fort Bend County.

Their (Dr. Salman and Dr. Sarfraz’s) leadership exemplifies what it means to serve with compassion, integrity, and purpose. This recognition is not only a celebration of their remarkable achievements but also an acknowledgment of the lasting impact they continue to make every day.

Your Trusted Local Clinics are Still Here for You “Capital has been a trusted name in medicine in Fort Bend County for years,” says Dr. Salman.

“We want our patients and the community to know that we are a practice that focuses on health, wellness, anti-aging, well-being, and prevention of conditions that can make life more difficult.”

Additionally, Capital offers specialties in internal medicine, infectious disease, and wound care, right in the heart of Sugar Land.

“With a successful and firmly established primary care location in Sugar Land, we made the decision to provide primary care to people who are currently challenged with finding appropriate care for themselves and their loved ones,” Dr. Salman says. “There’s a huge need in our community for primary care.”

upclosemagazine.com

Five organizations in one Sugar Land location 6903 Brisbane Ct #100 Sugar Land, TX 77479

Always accepting new patients at all locations Capital Health and Wellness Primary Care 832-886-4774 cima-docs.com Capital Infectious Disease Associates 832-886-4994 cida-docs.com The Wound Docs: Capital Advanced Wound Care 979-488-9438 cawc-docs.com Allure Aesthetics 346-309-4955 allureaestheticsmd.com United Community Foundation 281-853-5555 ucftexas.org NEW! Aliana Primary Care: Capital Health & Wellness Primary Care Providers 832-827-1555 16803 W Airport Blvd., Ste 290 Sugar Land, TX 77407 Other locations open now: Bay City, Wharton, and Telfair And coming soon: Needville, Sweeney, and Richmond/ Rosenberg, which will include nonprofit access

Lifestyles & Living kw sw ®

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Big-City Medicine.

Fort Bend Convenience.

by Alisha McMillen

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id you know? U.S. News & World Report evaluated 514 hospitals in Texas and ranked hospitals in the Austin, DallasFort Worth, Houston, McAllen and San Antonio metro areas.

The number one hospital in Texas is Houston Methodist Hospital.

We have our own Methodist Medical Center right in the heart of Sugar Land to serve our community’s medical needs, along with Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, a Level IV Trauma Center, St Luke’s Sugar Land, and OakBend Medical Center just down Highway 59. This means our community has more than 800 hospital beds ready for our residents when they need one … and they are all part of the most trusted hospitals in Houston, which has the largest medical center in the world.

The world-renowned University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, which has been ranked number one in the nation for cancer care by the U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Hospitals” survey for more than a decade, is in the process of building its newest campus, a 470,000-square-foot facility, in Sugar Land,

bringing a range of cancer services and UT MD Anderson’s unparalleled patient experience closer to those living in Southwest Houston and the surrounding areas.

“Living in Sugar Land for almost 30 years, I’ve seen the medical care in our city develop into something to be proud of,” says Cathy Stubbs, leader of the successful and respected Cathy Stubbs team. A Realtor specializing in Fort Bend County neighborhoods for more than three decades, she knows everything there is to know about Sugar Land’s amenities and benefits.

Cathy feels extremely fortunate to live and work in not only one of the most beautiful communities in the world, but one with the best medical care available.

“My husband and I chose to raise our children – one daughter and one son – in this community for so many reasons. The amazing medical care available to my family was one of those reasons,” she says.

With almost 520 physicians to choose from and an active primary care access rate of 1 primary care physician for every 1,181 residents (better than the national average), the county has countless professional buildings conveniently located throughout the city.

Texas Children’s Hospital, the number one children’s hospital in Texas, according to U.S. News & World Report, offers pediatric practices throughout the county, so residents can see the best pediatricians without driving into the city.

The area also boasts multiple rehabilitation hospitals, several stand-alone ERs, urgent care facilities and clinics, and support services like pharmacies, including several specialty pharmacies and compounding pharmacies, and medical supply stores. Everything is at your fingertips in minutes.

“Excellent healthcare is just one of the great reasons to move into Fort Bend County,” Cathy concludes. “Let us find the perfect home for your family. My associates and I love seeing the smiling faces of so many new homeowners in our community.”

Cathy Stubbs Team | www.cathystubbs.com | 281-967-6149

On the cover:

Meet Fort Bend County’s greatest physicians and healthcare workers in this issue of UpClose Magazine.

Publishers John & Alisha McMillen Business Editor Alisha McMillen

Top row - Andrew Cheng, Clutch City Insurance, Dr. Salman Aly, Capital Health & Wellness, Liaquat Khowaja, UCF’s Unity Clinic, Dr. Sarfraz Aly, Capital Health & Wellness, Dr. Amy Gandhi, Capital Health & Wellness, Dr. John Pozzi, Sugar Lakes Family Practice Middle row - Dr. Faisal Khan, Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental, Lauren Stai, St. Michael’s Elite Hospital, Dr. Karen Richardson, St. Michael’s Elite Hospital, Sean Johnson, St. Michael’s Elite Hospital, Tracy Jones, Silverbelle Assisted Living, Dr. Jeff Jones, Silverbelle Assisted Living Front row - Dan Brown, Isaiah 40:31 Fitness, Misty Cey, RYS Nutrition, Dr. Mohammad Eyad Albaba, Indigo Orthodontics, Dr. Angelica Herrera, Indigo Orthodontics, Dr. Srishti Mehta, Indigo Orthodontics, Nittasha A. Naidu, Elsun MedStaff & HR Consulting

Layout and Design Night Sky Creative Account Executives Lindsey Blumenthal John McMillen Gina Pizzini Writers Alisha McMillen Nicole Grace Photography J. Thomas “Jay” Ford UpClose Magazine is published monthly, landing directly in your neighbors’ mailboxes.

For information on having your business featured in UpClose, call

832-567-9712 john@upclosemagazine.com A portion of the editorial content contained in this publication is controlled and contracted by the advertisers contained herein and is part of their advertisement. UpClose Magazine is not responsible for content of these editorials or advertisements.

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.

St. Michael’s Elite Hospital Celebrates a New Season of Care

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uly 10th marked a new season for St. Michael’s Elite Hospital. Already trusted by local community members for its 24/7 emergency care, no-wait policy, and VIP-level care, the hospital is honored to continue offering exceptional service to our community, now under the management of ProCare Health.

“While our ownership has changed, our commitment to fast, compassionate, and highquality emergency care remains the same. We’re dedicated to putting you and your family first — 24/7,” CEO Sean Johnson says. “We were thrilled to be able to celebrate our new ownership directly with our community at the July event. It was great to have so many partners and community members come out and share in our great news!”

The event, which offered a food truck, sweets table,

by Alisha McMillen raffle, hospital tours, and opportunities to visit with many of the hospital’s great partners, was kicked off with a ribbon cutting by officials from the Fort Bend Regional Partnership.

“We are thankful to our partners, which included The Tox, City Ambulance, Jet Set Pilates, and more, for managing tents in the unpredictable Southeast Texas weather to offer specials and advice to our great community members,” says Lauren Stai, marketing liaison for St. Michael’s Elite Hospital. “Enchanted Air Balloons and Tacos el Tony helped make the event festive and welcoming. We were thrilled to see so many partners supporting us during this exciting time.”

The hospital is committed to keeping new and returning customers happy. “When people are experiencing a medical emergency, they want to be seen quickly by experienced medical professionals,”

Sean explains. “We see happy, repeat visitors who often see the same physicians who have helped them for years.”

One of those friendly, familiar faces is Dr. Karen Richardson.

“Patients get a lot of hands-on care that is fast but thorough,” Dr. Richardson says. “You get great, experienced doctors who genuinely care about their patients.”

St. Michael’s Elite Hospital is proud to be an integral part of the Fort Bend community. “We are focusing on big outreach projects within our community,” Lauren explains. “We want to be pillars of the community supporting our local organizations, and this celebration was just one step in nurturing our great relationships with our neighbors.”

St. Michael’s Elite Hospital 281-980-4357 16000 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77479 24hrer.com

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DENTAL Health: Pro Tips for Parents

The Practice Parents Wish They’d Found Sooner

by Nicole Grace

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hen Kaila and Kenny moved their family to Fort Bend last year, they quickly started researching pediatric dentists in the area for their four children, Kamari (8), Knight (7), Kamaia (4), and Kenji (2).

“We’ve seen a lot of pediatric dentists in the past. We took two of our kids to Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental and we liked them best. It was just lovely,” Kaila says. “They did a thorough job and didn’t rush the process. Hands down, Grand Parkway Pediatric is the top dentist we’ve ever seen.”

Having three kids of his own makes founder and owner Dr. Faisal Khan more understanding of children’s needs. “Kids are my whole life,” he says.“My own kids visit the office all the time.”

Dr. Khan and his teams at both Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental and Memorial Pediatric Dentistry are committed to making kids’ trips to the dentist comfortable and anxiety-free.

“At other dentists, when there was a problem, they wanted to use general anesthesia to make it easier to work. We didn’t want that. We wanted someone who would try something different,” Kaila continues.

At their recent visit, Knight and Kamaia needed work done.

Instead of using general anesthesia, Grand Parkway Pediatric was able to offer oral sedation. “Kamaia is very shy, but they took the time to walk her through the whole thing,” Kaila says.

“They didn’t get frustrated with the kids,” Kenny adds. “They did a good job and took care of them.”

The kids love the waiting area with its arcade and mini movie theatre. “Our kids enjoyed watching movies and Kenji loved playing games in the arcade,” Kaila explains. “And the office staff was great. They were all nice, helpful, and worked with us on payment. It can get quite

To advertise, 832-567-9712

expensive with this many kids, and they give options of ways to pay.”

“One of the greatest things was there was no criticism for needing work done.

Other dentists were more critical. At Grand Parkway Pediatric, they just tell you the plan, do the work, and provide a new plan of how to keep the teeth healthy in the future,” Kaila says.

At Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental’s two offices, Dr. David Tang, Dr. Priyanshi Ritwik, Dr. Anna Feng, and Dr. Khadija Khan, along with an oral surgeon and an anesthesiologist, join Dr. Khan to provide all aspects of pediatric dentistry, special needs dentistry, and minor orthodontics.

Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental Dr. Khan, Dr. Ritwik, Dr. Khadija, Dr. Feng 832-579-0960 7910 W. Grand Parkway S., Suite 100 Richmond, TX 77406 grandparkwaypediatricdental.com Memorial Pediatric Dental Dr. Khan, Dr. Tang 281-822-6600 791 Town & Country Blvd., Suite 210 Houston, TX 77024 memorialpediatricdds.com UPCLOSE ~ August 2026 ~ 5

Beyond Staffing: Elsun Helps Healthcare Employers Retain Global Talent

by Alisha McMillen

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ittasha A. Naidu has been in the HR industry for two decades. She built Elsun MedStaff & HR Consulting from the ground up, starting with offering expert healthcare staffing and HR consulting solutions.

“While consulting, I noticed a massive, often overlooked gap in how companies handle international talent. Logistics get them here, but culture is what keeps them here.” says Nittasha, CEO of the company. “Our Bridgeway Group specializes in Cross-Cultural Training and Destination Services (DSPs). We help internationally relocating professionals and their families navigate the ‘unwritten rules’ of moving to America, from corporate workplace etiquette to local school systems and daily social norms.”

With more than 19% of the workforce—more than 32 million employees—being immigrants to our country (according to USAFacts), cultural integration has become a very important step required to retain employees.

Nittasha further explains that 40% of early assignment exits are due to cultural friction and $1.25M is the estimated cost of a failed international hire.

“Our mission is simple: bridging the gap between moving and thriving,” Nittasha says. “We help HR leaders and corporations protect their talent investment, while also helping the relocating families feel at home in our country.”

“We’ve built five Core Curriculum Modules designed to cover life, not just work. We aren’t just helping people relocate; we are ensuring immigrant families and corporate transfers don’t just survive, but truly adapt,” she continues.

Nittasha grew up right here in Fort Bend County … Sugar Land to be specific. Raised with an entrepreneurial spirit, Nittasha used her background and elite professional pedigree, including a Master’s in Healthcare Human Resources and almost two decades of industry experience, to create her own company.

Nittasha loves having her home base in Sugar Land, even while serving hospitals and clinics

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To advertise, 832-567-9712

from New York to California, and multiple locations in between. Elsun finds the best employees for the job and helps employers retain those employees for a longer time period.

“Blending HR strategy with a recruiter’s heart, we strategize with all our placements.

When businesses have problems with recruiting and retention, we identify where the problems are and provide solutions that work,” she concludes.

Elsun MedStaff & HR Consulting Bridgeway Group 713-330-9206 info@ElsunStaffing.com ElsunStaffing.com

It Starts with HAPPY EMPLOYEES

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lassic Chevrolet has it figured out.

They have learned that having happy employees trickles down, resulting in better customer care and happier customers.

“We take care of our employees and, in turn, they take care of our customers,” says Ray Aguilar, who handles community outreach for Classic Chevrolet.

Changes in Business Hours

“We care about our employees and their time off with their families,” says John Aldridge, Classic’s general sales manager. “We recently changed our business hours to close earlier, which allows our employees to get home to their families earlier. It also ensures our customers don’t get stuck in the dealership until midnight. They can be home in their new car in time for dinner.”

Classic Chevrolet now closes at 7PM Monday through Friday, and at 6PM on Saturdays. They are closed all day on Sundays.

Enhanced Management and Sales Training

“We are helping our employees get back to basics with our training programs, reminding them about friendly greetings and to learn the detailed needs and wants of their customers,” John explains. “We are also making sure our sales staff has the tools they need to be product experts by offering daily training, Monday through Friday.

We want the transaction process to be as smooth and as quick as possible.”

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by Nicole Grace Company Softball Tournament for Teambuilding

This summer, team members from all three Houston-area Classic dealerships came together to get to know each other through a little healthy rivalry at their first softball tournament.

Donna Daniel from HR was the scorekeeper and Controller Ulises Duran was the announcer for the tournament. “We had four teams who played all day in front of stands full of other employees and guests. People brought their families and even their dogs. It was a display of great sportsmanship,” Donna explains.

The tournament was so successful, Classic plans to do it again. But next time, they’ll choose fall or spring when the heat is more bearable. “We may even do a bowling or basketball tournament – something in the air conditioning!” Donna says.

Personal Healthcare Brought to the Dealership

“We brought in a mobile dental practice to conduct regular cleanings,” says Patty Werner from HR. “They set up private rooms. People who haven’t been to the dentist in years got their teeth cleaned. The clinic even worked with our insurance. They’re coming back in November to set up more six-month cleanings.”

They also have a visiting nurse with Memorial Hermann, who comes out twice a week to go over health topics specific to the employee to help them navigate their overall

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healthcare. “She’s an RN and runs everyone’s A1C, helps with organizing medications, finding specialists, and even helps set up appointments,” Patty explains.

“We also have employee appreciation lunches to show our team how important they are to having a successful business,” Ray explains.

“Our owners, the Durant family, are dedicated to treating both employees and customers in such a way that makes us feel like one big family.”

“Our welcoming employees combined with an inventory of over 1,400 vehicles on property keeps bringing people back to Classic,” John says. “95% of the time we have exactly what customers are looking for. With our transparent transactions, customers can ‘Relax and Enjoy the Difference.’”

Classic Chevy Sugar Land 13115 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-491-9000 classicchevysugarland.com Classic Chevy 8100 HWY 6 South Houston, TX 77083 281-561-9900 classicchevyhwy6.com Classic Buick GMC 16835 Katy Freeway Houston, TX 77094 281-579-4300 classicbuickgmckaty.com

Thewith Comfort of Home the Support You Need

by Alisha McMillen he first thing you notice is the needed assisted living, but they didn’t like three-acre lot and canopy of oak the idea of moving into a sterile, impersonal trees outside. As you enter the community,” Dr. Jones says. “I started thinking controlled access home, you’ll see about how we could provide a clean, nice place the impeccable design in the community living for them to age in place.” room and dining room (accommodating up Silverbelle fulfilled its prophecy. Recently to 16 residents and their opened in late July, Silverbelle families) and the high-end already has its first residents, kitchen with a dining bar including 93-year-old friends where residents can watch Mary and Marlene, as well as the kitchen team at work.

Harell, 94. One family member You’ll also find personal commented, “Here at Silverbelle, touches. Each bedroom is they encourage them to get out designed by the residents of their rooms. It’s more like a and their families to make home. It’s a bit further of a drive them feel at home. As you than where she lived before, but stroll through the hallit’s definitely worth the drive.” ways, you’ll see a resident’s Mary herself loves sitting grandfather clock and among the trees in the big another resident’s grandbackyard. “I love it here. I just mother’s sewing machine love the land around me. I’m an lining the hall, offering more familiarity to outdoor person. I lived in the country,” people making the transition into assisted liv- she says. “And the food is great!” ing or memory care.

“There is just something “People in this position have already had to unique and special about give up so many of their personal belongings. Silverbelle. It’s an honor and a We want to be sure they feel at home here,” says privilege for people to entrust Tracy Jones, one of the owners of Silverbelle us with their loved ones’ Assisted Living in Richmond. “We don’t want care,” Tracy says. this to be a hard move. We want it to feel like an elevated move.”

Tracy and her husband Dr. Jeff Jones wanted Silverbelle Assisted Living to make Silverbelle a unique living space. They 832-600-8886 noticed that seniors thrive in nature and more 4702 Silverbelle Court home-like environments. “A lot of my patients Richmond, TX 77406 in my previous pain management practice silverbelleassistedliving.com

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To advertise, 832-567-9712

Additional Features of

Silverbelle • Every room has a view to the oak trees and expansive yard • Bathrooms are fully wheelchair accessible with zero entry shower • 6:1 caregiver/resident ratio • Shared activity room with puzzle table for playing games and a community library with books and games • Fully fenced and secure backyard • Resident security services include fall detection and call buttons, and cameras throughout • In-home salon services, such as haircuts, hair washes, general grooming • In-home providers for primary care, physical therapy, and occupational therapy • Lighting design encourages the body’s natural sleep cycles

Open House

Thursday, August 13th Ribbon cutting at 11am, followed by open house until 6pm

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Congratulations to Fort Bend’s Best!

Best Karate Studio:

Safety America 281-980-3030 2595 Cordes Dr, Sugar Land, TX 77479 karatesugarland.com Magazine

Best A/C and Heating:

UpClose Magazine and the Fort Bend Independent are excited to announce the latest round of winners of the Best of Fort Bend County for 2026.

Taurus Mechanical, Inc. 832-731-5256 TaurusHVAC.com

Best Funeral Home:

Settegast Kopf Company @ Sugar Creek

Thanks to everyone who voted in this round.

Please vote in future rounds for your favorite neighborhood businesses!

Best Home Builder:

Pierce Built

Look for more Best of Fort Bend Winners in future issues of UpClose Magazine, and in the Fort Bend Independent!

Best Insurance Agent:

Jeremy Adams-State Farm

Also offering Birthday Parties!

TACL B018036E

Residential A/C & Heating O 40 years in business O Voted best A/C and Heating in Fort Bend

O Locally owned and operated O A/C check up and repair O Residential maintenance

Best Karate School

and installation

John R. Theriot Brayden Theriot Cell (832) 731-5256 281-980-3030 2595 Cordes Drive Sugar Land, TX 77479

(281) 242-6858

jtheriot4@comcast.net

karatesugarland.com 10 ~ UPCLOSE ~ August 2026

Fax & Business

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TaurusHVAC.com

From Leaks to Lifelong Loyalty:

Why One Physician Keeps Calling Alan’s

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semi-permeable membrane to remove up to 99% of contaminants, including dissolved salts, heavy metals, and microorganisms.

“Using a water filter takes out what’s not supposed to be in water,” says Beau Burkhalter, son of the namesake of Alan’s Plumbing, who has been working with his father at the business since he was just a teen. “There is a large amount of chlorine added to water to make it clean. And you definitely can feel it on your skin.”

“The Alan’s team provides good work, they’re friendly and well-mannered, and over the years, they’ve proven to be trustworthy, dependable, and thorough,” Dr. Pozzi explains. “They’re also reasonably priced. We haven’t hesitated recommending them to our friends.”

Before finding Alan’s two decades ago, Dr. Pozzi had an unsatisfactory experience with another plumber. “But we tried Alan’s and never went back,” he says.

For 30 years, Alan’s Plumbing has been the go-to, honest, licensed plumbing company here in Fort Bend. Alan’s Plumbing works like a well-oiled machine.

Alan and his brother, Chris, work alongside the team of plumbers that includes sons Beau and Luke (youngest brother Jake does plumbing sales), longtime plumbers Jaime, Christian, and Anthony, and apprentices Nick, Noah, and PJ.

by Nicole Grace

he last time Alan’s Plumbing was out for a problem at our house it was a slow drain,” says local physician, Dr. John Pozzi of Sugar Lakes Family Practice. “But they’ve been doing work for us since my kids, who are now all adults, were small.”

Dr. Pozzi and his wife, Mona, moved into their Sugar Land home in 1994. For two decades, they have reached out to Alan’s for all of their plumbing needs.

“Alan’s recently installed an on-demand water heater and water softener, plus a reverse osmosis filtration system in our kitchen,” Dr. Pozzi explains. “They replace the filter for us every six to nine months.

We are very happy with the system. You can see how dirty the tap water is just by looking Dr. John Pozzi, at the dirty filter.”

Sugar Lakes Family Practice Reverse osmosis (RO) is an advanced water purification process that uses pressure and a

Alan’s Plumbing

281-261-1064 License M-18995

WWW.ALANS.PLUMBING To advertise, 832-567-9712

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Nutrition + Strength:

The Foundation of Total Health

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by Alisha McMillen

an Brown and Misty Cey have dedicated their careers to helping people improve health through evidencebased nutrition and strength training. Dan is the owner of Isaiah 40:31 Fitness, where Misty serves as the gym’s registered dietitian, creating a unique partnership that helps members build healthier, stronger lives.

Together, Isaiah 40:31 Fitness and RYS Nutrition provide a whole-person approach by combining professional fitness coaching with practical nutrition guidance to help people reach their goals safely and sustainably.

“Eating real, nutritious food contributes to every aspect of our health,” Misty says. “Nutrition affects our energy, strength, recovery, heart health, blood sugar, and so much more. Small, consistent changes can make a tremendous difference over time.”

“Having a registered dietitian as part of the gym is the perfect combination of fitness and nutrition,” Dan says.

“You can work out six or seven days a week, but if you’re not fueling yourself properly, you’re limiting your results.”

The nutrition side of the business works with many major insurance plans, making professional nutrition counseling more accessible than many people realize.

“Many people qualify for nutrition counseling through their insurance for conditions like obesity, prediabetes, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and more,” Misty explains. “For many of our patients, there’s little or no out-of-pocket cost. We love helping people access care they didn’t know was available.”

Together, the fitness and nutrition teams aren’t focused on creating bodybuilders—they’re focused on helping people become stronger for everyday life.

“Strength training helps with everything you do,” Dan says. “Whether it’s carrying groceries, playing with your kids or grandkids, hiking, traveling, or simply staying independent as you age, being stronger makes life easier. Research consistently shows that strength training improves bone health, reduces injury risk, and builds confidence.”

“Exercise changes more than your body,” Misty adds.

“It improves confidence, energy, resilience, and overall well-being. When someone is helping guide both your fitness and nutrition, you’re setting yourself up for longterm success.”

Whether you’re just getting started, working toward weight loss, managing a health condition, or training for an event like HYROX or DEKA, the goal remains the same: helping every client become healthier, stronger, and more confident.

RYS Nutrition Isaiah 40:31 Fitness 515-321-3497 4715 TX-36 Unit 8 Rosenberg, TX 77471 rysnutrition.com isaiah4031fitness.com

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“Dr. Mehta introduced me to a whole new world!”

After the surgery, Dr. Mehta recommended traditional braces to help make ample space in Alanna’s mouth. “Dr. Mehta and my oral

by Alisha McMillen surgeon wanted to save as many of my teeth as he team at Indigo Orthodontics is passionate about airway health. Founder and possible. She is confident we can broaden my owner Dr. Srishti Mehta, Dr. Angelica Herrera, and Dr. Mohammad Eyad Albaba smile,” she says.

Alanna was so impressed with Dr. provide a unique perspective in airway-focused orthodontics.

Mehta, she brought her six-year-old “As orthodontists, we can influence the development of the face, jaws, in for his first visit last December. and airway improving issues such as snoring, mouth breathing, and “Dr. Mehta recommended that his restless sleep,” Dr. Mehta explains. tonsils and adenoids be checked, and “I assumed my level of hard was everyone’s level of hard. I was so exhausted. we eventually had them removed,” she When we’re not breathing well, we’re not sleeping well,” says Alanna Partin of says. “If there’s any gift I can give to her experience with a toddler and a colicky baby, when no one was sleeping well. my children’s athleticism, it is to ensure “Both of my sons had tongue ties, which made it difficult for them to eat and their air cavity is functioning well.” sleep. My education and experience is in exercise and health, so I started learning Indigo’s three orthodontists work about how airway health can affect your overall health.” together to treat all ages, encouraging “I’ve been to dentists in the U.S. and in Canada and no one told me I was Alanna Partin, Indigo early interceptive treatment with a tongue tied or that my tongue was too big for my mouth. I had severe sleep Orthodontics patient child’s first orthodontist visit at age apnea and experienced poor and interrupted sleep.” Alanna explains. “Dr. Mehta seven. “A common myth is to wait until all baby teeth fall out to get an orthodontic introduced me to a whole new world.”

Dr. Mehta referred Alanna to a surgeon who completed evaluation … often, the solutions are better double jaw surgery to bring the jaws forward. “When when caught and treated earlier,” Dr. Mehta I woke up from jaw surgery, it was like breathing explains. through a fire hose instead of breathing through a Indigo Orthodontics straw, which was what I was used to. Once I could 281-201-2087 breath well, it released stress and my neck and body 7623 West Grand Parkway S. started unwinding,” she explains.

Richmond, TX 77407 www.indigoortho.com

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Educate beneficiaries on the various options available when moving into Medicare and the differences between them Help navigate the Medicare system through education and continued customer support Familar with many group retiree and government programs such as TRS, VA, and Federal Employee Retirement System

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I DO NOT OFFER EVERY PLAN AVAILABLE IN YOUR AREA. ANY INFORMATION I PROVIDE IS LIMITED TO THOSE PLANS I DO OFFER IN YOUR AREA. PLEASE CONTACT MEDICARE.GOV OR 1-800-MEDICARE TO GET INFORMATION ON ALL OF YOUR OPTIONS. I DO NOT OFFER EVERY PLAN AVAILABLE IN YOUR AREA. ANY INFORMATION I PROVIDE IS LIMITED TO THOSE PLANS I DO OFFER IN YOUR AREA. PLEASE CONTACT MEDICARE.GOV OR 1-800-MEDICARE TO GET INFORMATION ON ALL OF YOUR OPTIONS. THIS IS A SOLICITATION FOR INSURANCE.THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT. NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY.

To advertise, 832-567-9712

UPCLOSE ~ August 2026 ~ 13

8 Signs Your Website

I

Needs a Refresh

s your website helping your business grow or costing you customers? Social Reach founders Jason Tello and LuzMarie Garcia share eight signs it’s time for a refresh.

1. L ow Conversions: If your site isn’t generating leads or sales, your messaging or calls-toaction may be missing the mark.

2. P oor Navigation: A confusing layout drives users away. Simplify your structure so visitors find what they need instantly.

3. O utdated Design: An aging look damages your credibility. Refresh your visuals and content to reflect current professional standards.

4. L agging Behind Competitors: If your site fails to match the quality of your competitors, you are effectively handing them your customers. Elevate your online presence to command the trust your business deserves.

5. F rustrating Mobile Experience: Mobileunfriendly sites lose traffic. Ensure your site

is seamless across all devices.

6. S low Performance: Site speed is critical. If pages take too long to load, you’re losing visitors before they even arrive.

7. I nvisible in Search: Weak SEO and slow performance make it impossible for new customers to find you on search engines.

8. B usiness Evolution: Your services and audience change; your website should too. Ensure your site accurately reflects your business today.

Your website has only seconds to make an impression. Don’t let an ineffective site hold you back—visit socialreachco.com to take our Five-Second Test and start your transformation today.

Social Reach Consultancy 281-978-1847 302 Cobia Dr., Katy, TX 77494 socialreachco.com

Welcome to the NEW UpClose Community Calendar

ADD YOUR EVENT TODAY!

UpClose Magazine launched our new website last month and we’ve added a brand new community calendar!

Our hope is that all of Fort Bend County’s nonprofit and important events will appear in the calendar to provide our readers with an up-to-date tool to plan their schedules.

It’s easy to add your event – just click on the Add Your Event button at the top of the page!

Visit upclosemagazine.com/ upclose-calendar to get started.

Approval for calendar events is at the discretion of UpClose Magazine publishers.

UpCloseMagazine.com 14 ~ UPCLOSE ~ August 2026

upclosemagazine.com

Re-Modelista DesignerSpotlight

Classic Interior Design Never Goes Out of Style

Did you know?

The Re-Modelista provides three hours of design services by a professional designer on every project at no charge!

Whether you’re struggling with design, or you have a great idea that you’re just not sure how to complete, complimentary design services will bring your remodel to life in a way you're sure to love.

T

he Re-Modelista, Teri Gilberg, and Jen Hayes of Feather and Nest Interiors have worked on many projects together.

In her words, Jen shares why she believes in the value of classic interior design, as used in the home pictured here.

Designer Jen Hayes

There is a reason that the most admired homes share a common thread. They aren’t designed around passing trends. Instead, they embrace timeless principles that have proven their beauty through timeless and sophisticated design choices. Classic interior design is more than a style, it is an investment in elegance, craftsmanship and the art of living well.

In today’s online design culture, where social media introduces a new “trendy” look almost weekly, homeowners often find themselves questioning whether their homes will feel dated in just a few years. Classic design offers an alternative. It values permanence over novelty and refinement over excess, resulting in interiors

that remain beautiful long after trends have faded.

Classic interiors are rooted in balance, proportion, thoughtful detailing, and carefully curated furnishings that create spaces to feel effortless rather than overdesigned.

Designing with longevity in mind is not only financially smart, it is also one of the most sustainable choices a homeowner can make.

A well designed space should still feel current ten years from now all while adding value to your home. The addition of new artwork, a change of throw pillows, or the addition of a sentimental memento can easily refresh a space while preserving its timeless foundation.

This flexibility is what allows classic homes to remain relevant and curated.

Perhaps the greatest luxury of all is a home that continues to welcome family and friends year after year without feeling outdated. A home where holidays are celebrated, children grow up, and traditions are passed from one generation to the next.

Classic interior design creates spaces that become part of those memories.

The Re-Modelista Your Home Renovation Specialist Serving Fort Bend County For Now offering More Than 10 Years powderNEW OFFICE LOCATION coated in Feather & Nest Interiors garage 3711 Raoul Wallenberg Lane flooring!

Missouri City, TX 77459 832-731-3191 theremodelista.com

To advertise, 832-567-9712

UPCLOSE ~ August 2026 ~ 15

ECWRSS Postal Customer

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DALLAS,TX PERMIT NO 3116

LEADING ORTHOPEDIC CARE KEEPS YOU MOVING When an injury puts you on the sidelines, your Houston Methodist orthopedic team puts expertise into play. We’ll customize a minimally invasive treatment plan to get you back out there — doing the things you love.

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For you.

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houstonmethodist.org/orthopedics 281.690.4678