Indigo Welcomes a New Orthodontist to the Family
Dedicated to helping patients breathe better, sleep better, and smile brighter
Dby Alisha McMillen
id you know orthodontics can influence facial and airway development at an early age?
Dr. Srishti Mehta, founder of local Indigo Orthodontics, and her partner, Dr. Angelica Herrera, handle all of the regular things orthodontists do, like aligning bites and straightening teeth by using braces, clear aligners, and retainers. But the practice also has a special interest in treatment of sleep and airway health.
“As orthodontists, we can influence the development of the face, jaws and airway, improving issues such as snoring, mouth breathing, and restless sleep,” Dr. Mehta explains.
A busy practice, Indigo Orthodontics was looking for a third orthodontist to join the team. Previously practicing independently in Indiana, Dr. Mohammad Eyad Albaba also has a passion for airway-focused orthodontics.
“I know Dr. Mehta is a leader in the field, so I reached out and learned they were looking for another orthodontist to join their team,” Dr. Albaba says. “I was looking for a busy practice with multiple doctors and diverse cases. And it’s been phenomenal here, learning from the doctors who are both great mentors.”
With three orthodontists on staff, the team is able to treat more patients than ever. “Having Dr. Albaba on board has enhanced our ability to get neighbors in our community the care they need in terms of both smiles and airway health,” Dr. Mehta says. “He is the perfect fit for our office. He came in with a strong interest and expertise in early orthodontic intervention and training in dental sleep medicine. He brings a fresh perspective with a remarkable ability to relate to and work with both children and adults. We’re thrilled to have him on our team.”
The three orthodontists work together to treat all ages, encouraging early interceptive treatment with a child’s first orthodontist visit at age seven. “Identifying issues in younger growing children, much before all the baby teeth come in, can be tremendously beneficial,” Dr. Mehta explains. “A common myth is to wait until all baby teeth fall out to get an orthodontic evaluation … often, the solutions are better when caught and treated earlier.”
With around 30 team members, the orthodontists at Indigo Orthodontics credit their strong and reliable team with contributing to the success of the practice. “With such a dedicated team, operations run smoothly and our patients feel the appreciation and consideration conveyed by the staff every day,” Dr Mehta says. “We just want to help create happy, confident smiles for everyone who walks through our doors.”
Dr. Mehta and her team have been creating happy, confident smiles for almost a decade. To request your complimentary Indigo Orthodontics consultation at the state-of-the-art practice on Grand Parkway, visit indigoortho.com or call 281-201-2087. No referrals are required.
Indigo Orthodontics
281-201-2087
7623 West Grand Parkway S. Richmond, TX 77407 www.indigoortho.com
Making Fort Bend Residents Feel at Home
by Alisha McMillen
Some places just feel like home. Fernando’s is one of those places. A steakhouse with Latin flair, Fernando’s has been the go-to Sugar Land restaurant for celebrations, big and small, for more than 20 years.
“Fernando’s is one of my favorite places. They know what I like and always have our favorite table ready for me and my girlfriends,” says frequent and longtime diner, Mary Favre, a pillar of the Fort Bend community. “It’s all about Fernando’s great attitude and service. He’s a hoot!”
Opened by Fernando Echeverria in 2005, the restaurant offers a fine dining establishment with a relaxed feel. Fernando himself is the cook most nights, but he always makes the time to come out to the dining room to greet his regulars and any new visitors to the restaurant.
Cathy Stubbs, leader of the Cathy Stubbs Team, says, “Fernando is a fixture in our community – he serves his customers with smiles
and laughter, and he knows everyone. When you walk in, you just feel at home. That’s thanks to Fernando himself. He welcomes everyone with the same humor and wit and makes the dining experience fun.”
Fernando, who lives in Sugar Land himself, has welcomed the Stubbs family for years. His restaurant has hosted Cathy’s birthday party and parties for her children.
“My patrons are loyal and consistent. We have a lot of regulars,” Fernando says. “I’ve watched their kids grow up. I saw them when they were just babies 20 years ago, and they later came to celebrate their proms at my restaurant. They just keep coming back.”
The most popular thing on the menu is the El Jefe, a juicy filet mignon drizzled in chimichurri sauce and served with potato puree and asparagus. Fernando also serves the dish with fish and lamb chops. “My favorite thing to cook is the lamb chops. Everyone loves them,” Fernando explains.
Fernando’s is open Tuesday through Saturday nights from 5pm - 9pm.
A fun and unexpected part of the Fernando’s experience that makes his fine dining more down to earth is the big signature wall. In the early days, when Cardinal Daniel DiNardo dined at the restaurant, he asked to sign the wall to
commemorate his visit. It became a tradition. The wall is full of thousands of signatures from diners over the decades.
When Cathy, Fort Bend’s premier real estate agent, welcomes new residents to the community, she has no hesitation in recommending Fernando’s for a memorable meal to celebrate. “Fernando is a representation of the welcoming and warm culture of our county,” she says. “It’s a great place for you to celebrate the purchase of your new Fort Bend home.”
Are you in the market to buy or sell a home? Don’t hesitate to reach out to Cathy and her team. They’ll welcome you with open arms, as is customary in our friendly community.
Fernando operates his business with the same mentality. “I don’t just sell food. I sell a little human warmth. I just want people to leave my restaurant happy.”
On the cover:
“Your neighborhood orthodontist”
Publishers
John & Alisha McMillen
Business Editor Alisha McMillen
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.
Help Keep the Doors Open for Young Dreamers
by Alisha McMillen
Creative Dreams Outreach Center (CDOC) has supported middle and high school students for 20 years. The students who frequent the center are from right here in our own community. Some come from foster group homes, foster families, and single parent families. Some are at-risk youth. Some are on the Autism spectrum.
“CDOC is a place for students to spend their free time after school and during the summer, finding their God-given talent,” says Executive Director Jennifer Pinti. “Through a seven-week summer camp program and after-school program during the school year, students learn creative arts and life skills.”
The center has an art studio, dance studio, sewing lab, computer lab, half-court basketball gym, and three music rooms. Equipped with a commercial kitchen, the center provides lunch for students in the summer, and dinner during the school year.
CDOC was the passion of Jackie Stouffer who started the organization 20 years ago. Following Jackie’s retirement, the staff continued operating the center and serving families. Jennifer now leads the organization’s continued growth and vision for the future.
City of Sugar Land Council Member, Suzanne Whatley, who knew Jackie when she started the organization, is now a part of the CDOC event committee. “I believe in the passion behind this program, so I said I’m in – just tell me how I can help.”
Suzanne is working with the committee to manage two annual events: The 3rd Annual Designer Purse Bingo on September 13th and the 2nd Annual Top Golf Tournament on February 27th.
But the events aren’t enough. At risk of closing its doors, CDOC has launched their Keep the Dream Alive campaign with the goal of raising $175,000 by December. The board has generously committed to match donations up to $30,000, so your donation can really make a difference.
“Students need a place to spend time during summer and after school. Where else would these students be without Creative Dreams Outreach Center?” Suzanne asks.
“We provide a safe space for these students and mentorship to help them determine and achieve their goals. We call our students dreamers,” Jennifer explains. “Help us keep the dream alive. Click on the QR code and give us a chance.”
Creative Dreams Outreach Center 281-208-2018
1730 Staffordshire Road Stafford, TX 77477 creativedoc.org
Jennifer Pinti, Executive Director, Creative Dreams Outreach Center
Suzanne Whatley, City of Sugar Land Council Member and Creative Dreams volunteer
SCAN TO DONATE
A Vibrant Community Deserves a
VIBRANT WEBSITE
by Nicole Grace
The Seven Meadows Homeowners Association board members all agreed. It was time to update their website. They turned to Social Reach Consultancy with a detailed list of their requirements.
“We had many discussions among various board members and we all agreed it was time,” says former Director of the Board, Dan Contreras, who helped initiate the project. “We take seriously the responsibility of sustaining and improving the value of our neighborhood.”
Seven Meadows is an established master-planned community developed in the early 2000s, known for its tree-lined streets, large homes, and familyfriendly environment.
“Our website is our communication channel to our residents, and to new families searching for a place to live,” Dan explains. “We wanted it to be vibrant, dynamic, and easy to navigate.”
“When Seven Meadows approached us, their website outdated, difficult to navigate, and no longer served reliable community resource residents needed,” says of Social Reach Consultancy, Jason Tello. Jason and LuzMarie Garcia, own and run the business together. was to create more than a refreshed design we build a functional digital platform that improved communication, simplified access to key information, and gave the HOA
more manageable system for keeping residents informed.”
They also included a link on the website that provides a listing of all homes that are available for sale in the neighborhood. “We wanted the website to represent our future residents, who are young, energetic, and looking for their first or second home,” Dan adds. “The website design draws in people looking for a green, colorful community with dynamic, updated content that is easy to navigate. Social Reach met all our requirements and it was great working with them.”
Social Reach Consultancy
281-978-1847
302 Cobia Dr., Katy, TX 77494 socialreachco.com
Is the Texas Heat
Taking a Toll on Your Water Heater?
by Nicole Grace
Both the NOAA Climate Prediction Center and the Old Farmer’s Almanac summer weather predictions in Texas forecast warmerthan-normal late summer conditions, with the hottest periods concentrated in July and September. As summer continues to heat up and outdoor temperatures steadily increase, you may be taking cooler showers than normal and not thinking about the problems your hot water heater could be facing in this heat.
Did you know extreme hot weather could affect the pilot light on your hot water heater?
Alan Burkhalter, founder of local Alan’s Plumbing, says, “Poor attic ventilation can lead to excessive heat and attic temperatures in the summer, which will cause the pilot to go out on standing pilot water heaters. We’ve had many calls about this very issue this summer. While increasing attic ventilation will help alleviate this problem, I also encourage clients to consider a tankless water heater. Each type has its pros and cons. We offer some important information to consider regarding the cost, efficiency, and longevity of a new water heater.”
Back in the beginning (30 years ago!), the Alan’s Plumbing team consisted of only Alan and his wife Jennifer. Jennifer answered the calls, and Alan provided service for those calls. Today, Alan’s brother Chris works alongside Alan’s two oldest sons, Beau and Luke, while their youngest son, Jake, does plumbing sales in Houston. This dynamic team includes longtime plumbers Jaime, Christian, and Anthony, with apprentices Nick, Noah, and PJ helping them out. Jennifer still runs the back office with the help of Katie and Katy.
Alan says, “If you’re struggling with your hot water heater or the pilot light, give us a call. We’ll help you weigh your options make the best water heater choice for your household.”
DENTAL Health: Pro Tips for Parents
Compassionate Care for Every Child, Including Those with Special Needs
by Nicole Grace
Jessica Lara learned of Dr. Faisal Khan and his practice, Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental, back in 2019. At the time, her three children were pre-teens and young teenagers. Yahir, her non-verbal son who has Autism, had never had his teeth cleaned before without general anesthesia.
“I found Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental online and called to ask if they helped special needs children. I was happy and thankful to learn that they do!” Jessica said. “I just fell in love with Dr. Khan. He was so kind and convinced Yahir that he could get a cleaning without being fully sedated.”
Now 20 years old, Yahir and his sister, 17-year-old Valerie, still see Dr. Khan for regular cleanings. Big brother, Antonio, who also has Autism, aged out at 21 years old.
When Jessica found Dr. Khan, her family lived nearby in Pecan Grove. The family currently resides in East Bernard, a 50-minute drive from the dental practice. Why make the long drive? “It can be very difficult to get everyone in the car and go places, but we all just feel very comfortable in the office. It is worth the drive,” Jessica explains.
“The office is beautiful and clean. The employees are all very patient, from the dentist to the assistants. I bring his older sister, most appointments with me because Yahir listens to her it even easier. God blessed me with good helpers,” she continues.
“Many individuals with special needs are at higher risk oping dental and oral diseases. We do not recommend routine dental care,” says Dr. Khan. parents of children with special put off taking their child to the dentist for years because they may require more attention than others.”
“We can accommodate most special needs kids in our office,” he continues. “My staff understands that some kids have limitations. Tell us about your child’s limitations, and we’ll do our best to accommodate them.”
While all children yearn for gentle and caring dental care, caring for a special needs patient takes extraordinary amounts of compassion and understanding. Dr. Khan and his team, including Dr. Priyanshi Ritwik, Dr. Khadija Khan, and Dr. Anna Feng, are committed to making your child’s dental care as comfortable and easy as possible.
At Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental, kids of all ages are comfortable with Dr. Khan and his staff. “Kids are my whole life,” says Dr. Khan. “They’re so much fun. Every patient is different – children keep things exciting and fast-paced.”
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
Driving Change BEYOND the Dealership
by Nicole Grace
Classic Chevrolet is embedded in the Fort Bend Community. “I’ve been volunteering since 1983 when I got to Fort Bend County. My parents taught me that helping others was the right thing to do. Every day when my dad asked how my day went, he’d also ask ‘So, who did you help today?’” says Ray Aguilar, who handles community outreach for Classic Chevrolet. “When I joined Classic, I was happy to see the history of volunteerism within the community.”
How is Classic helping in their community?
“I’ve been with Fort Bend Seniors and Meals on Wheels for nine years. Classic has supported our fundraising efforts and Ray has been hands-on, delivering hot lunches to clients in our community. We have several senior centers – six in Fort Bend County and one in
Brookshire – where active seniors can come to participate in activities, like bingo, art, and exercise. Classic Chevrolet helps out a lot, and they’re not just doing it to sell cars. They really want to make a difference in our community.”
- Rick Branek, Fort Bend Meals on Wheels
“Classic has been amazing to our organization for many years. Ray always thinks about us and brings us supplies and donations. He knows what our biggest needs are, like liquid laundry detergent and canned puppy and kitten food. He and his wife have fostered for us. And Classic has even opened their dealership doors to host us for a successful adoption event.”
- Rene Vasquez, Fort Bend County Animal Services
“The American Legion is an organization of veterans helping veterans from all branches of the U.S. military. We give scholarships to students of Fort Bend Schools and send students to Texas Boys State, a week-long summer leadership and civic education program. Classic has helped donate
to these scholarships and activities. They’ve helped us find hole sponsors for our Quail Valley golf tournaments. They’ve invited us to attend their fundraisers, like their chili cookoff. Ray, in particular, gets really involved in helping our community.”
- Commander Jesse Vargas, American Legion
“Classic is a warm, community and family focused business. They’re a true asset to the Fort Bend community. They are also generous and support many nonprofits which l think is very important. From loaning a van to an organization in need to allowing meetings in their space, they go out of their way to be supportive of their neighbors.”
- Gladys Brumfield, Catholic Charities
Best Personal Injury Attorney: James Amaro of the Amaro Law Firm 322 Brooks St. Sugar Land, TX 77478 866-902-6276 O amarolawfirm.com
Best Mediterranean: Fadi’s 716 Highway 6 Sugar Land, TX 77478 fadiscuisine.com
Best Auto Repair: Crissman’s Auto Repair and Service 13743 Stafford Road, Stafford, TX 77477 281-261-2306
We thank you for your continued support of our local business. Since 1986, Crissman’s Auto Repair and Service has been providing quality automotive repairs and exceptional service.
Best Jeweler: Better Bling Studio 2811 N Main St, Stafford, TX 77477 betterbling.com
Best Art/Craft Activity Venue: Fire it Up Pottery Studio 13817 Southwest Fwy., Sugar Land, TX 77478 fireitup-pottery.com
Dog Daycare/Boarding: Texas Doggie Daycare texasdoggiedaycare.com
Stars, Stripes & Liberty July 4, 2026
Sponsored by the Exchange Club of Sugar Land and the Exchange Club of Fort Bend
Photos by Dave Grice
Red, White & Boom July 4, 2026
Constellation Field
Photos by Sugar Land Space Cowboys staff
Tailored Cabinets. Timeless Results
Did you know?
by Alisha McMillen
recessed alcove into a beverage bar. We’ve converted unused space under the stairs into a pantry. The solutions are endless.”
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
Maximize your home’s footprint by tailoring storage and designs to meet your needs in your exact dimensions. By upgrading awkward nooks with built-in bookshelves, converting blank walls into organized mudroom cubbies, or framing structural columns with decorative millwork, you elevate both functionality and property value.
“Custom carpentry can transform and elevate kitchens and bathrooms into personalized spaces that maximize storage, organization and everyday functionality,” says Jen Hayes, owner of Feather & Nest Interiors. “Thoughtfully designed cabinetry, built-ins, and millwork are custom tailored to fit the unique dimensions and needs of each home, creating seamless solutions that standard cabinets cannot achieve.”
The Re-Modelista works closely with Jen to implement designs to increase functionality in the homes they’re remodeling. “Jen is really talented when it comes to taking an unused space or area in the house and turn it into something useful,” Teri, the Re-Modelista, says. “We’ve turned a coat closet into a beautiful, unique custom cabinet. We’ve turned a
Some ways to include custom cabinetry to make your home more personal and unique include: adding built-in bookcases and entertainment centers; building a mudroom with hooks, lockers, a bench, or shoe cubbies to transform a simple entryway; and converting small rooms or awkward cor ners into an office area with a custom-fit desk, floating shelves, and built-in file cabinets.
“Beyond just functionality, custom carpentry adds a level of craftsmanship and beauty that elevates your entire space, adding value and color,” Jen explains. “Carefully selected materials, refined detailing, and finishes create a cohesive, timeless aesthetic that reflects the homeowner’s style while enhancing the appeal and value of the home.”
The Re-Modelista
Your Home Renovation Specialist
Serving Fort Bend County For More Than 10 Years
OFFICE LOCATION
in Feather & Nest Interiors
3711 Raoul Wallenberg Lane Missouri City, TX 77459 832-731-3191 theremodelista.com
