Issuu

Magazine

October 2026

Your

Fitness

Their Mission

A Couple

on a Mission

by Alisha McMillen

artners in life and in business, Darren and Melissa Stewart are committed to helping their local community get fit, on each individual’s own terms. “Whether you want to run collegiately, or just run with your grandchildren, we want to meet your purpose,” Darren says. “Everyone has a reason for wanting to get in shape—maybe it’s to get off medication or to run a marathon. We want to help you get there.” Together, Melissa and Darren have 17 years of personal training experience. They are opening their own personal training studio, Mission-Driven Fitness, right here in Sugar Land to be close and convenient for their clientele. “We wanted to create our own positive gym culture,” Darren explains. “No one should experience anxiety going to the gym.” “People can be uncomfortable in a big-gym atmosphere,” Melissa continues. “We provide a solid, professional environment where everyone feels comfortable … somewhere people want to keep coming back to.” The company name, Mission-Driven Fitness, was born from the couple’s own faith, along with the fact that they are always on an individual mission with each client. It is no coincidence that MissionDriven starts with the same letters as Melissa and Darren. “Our mission is personal,” Darren says. “We offer our clients ‘Fitness with Purpose.’” Impressively, Darren has run two of the Abbott World Marathon Majors in Sydney and just this month in Chicago. He plans to run in London next April and has hit the qualifying time for Boston. Melissa often travels with him to run in other marathon events. She ran the 5K in Australia and has run three half-marathons. “We have clients in their teens and early 20s, all the way up to their 80s,” Melissa explains. “We create personal plans for each individual based on their individual fitness level and goals. Everyone has an idea of what they can do, but we’re here to help them really figure out where to begin and where to go from there.” “We have to help you find your starting line before you run the race,” Darren continues. “We like to start slow and work our way up. We’ll help you find your purpose for getting fit—that’s why we call it ‘Fitness with Purpose.’” Mission-Driven Fitness is planning a Grand Opening event in January. But you don’t have to wait until then to get started. Visit missiondrivenfitness.com to set up your free consultation session today.

FIT to Get You

Mission-Driven Fitness 346-704-1468 16525 Lexington Blvd, #200 Sugar Land, TX 77479 Mission-DrivenFitness.com

Lifestyles & Living kw sw ®

Giving Season:

When Our Community Shows Up BIG he last quarter of the year is big in Fort Bend. Big hearts. Big community spirit. Big giving. Over the years, Cathy and her team have supported dozens of these nonprofits in different ways. “Every community has its own vibe. When you’ve lived and worked in a community for more than 30 years—raised your family, built friendships, and created a successful business—you become part of that energy. A big part of our community’s energy is giving, caring, and being ready to support each other,” Cathy explains. “Our community shows up big for a good time and a good cause.” Here are just a few of the events the Fort Bend community continues to show up to support, year after year. • The Sanctuary Foster Care Services strives to achieve permanent sanctuary and healing homes for children and families from hard places. Their annual gala is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 3rd at Bayou Place in downtown Houston. They also host a Family Fun Run on Nov. 7th at Brazos River Park. • East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry has a food pantry, financial assistance program, and children’s school supplies program. Its annual gala occurs in spring, but supporters show up in the fall for the OutRun Hunger 5K & Family Walk, this year on Oct. 3rd. • Red & Blue United supports Sugar Land’s first responders. This year’s event, Liberty Takes Flight, occurs Oct. 8th at a private hangar at the Sugar Land Regional Airport.

• Gigi’s Playhouse offers free therapeutic, educational, and research-driven programs to individuals of all ages with Down syndrome. Their 2026 gala will be held Oct. 17th at Houston’s Bayou Place. • Fort Bend Women’s Center offers safety, healing, and hope for survivors. Their Healing & Hope Luncheon is Oct. 22nd in Houston. • The Fort Bend Education Foundation provides opportunities to enrich and enhance the quality of education for all FBISD students through its grant programs. The foundation’s Sugar Shindig will be at Safari Texas on Oct. 23rd. • Fort Bend Junior Service League, an organization of women, is committed to promoting volunteerism and developing the potential of women. The organization’s annual Sugar Plum Market is scheduled for Nov. 4th 7th at the Stafford Centre. • The Arc of Fort Bend County ensures opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to maximize their quality of life. Their annual event, Best in the West, occurs at George Ranch Historical Park on Nov. 21st. • Child Advocates of Fort Bend provides critical services to children who have experienced abuse. Their annual gala takes place each spring. One of their most anticipated fundraisers, the Christmas Home Tour, returns Dec. 4th and 5th, allowing guests to tour four beautiful private homes in the community.

The Arc of Fort Bend County’s Best in the West, Cathy Stubbs and Carter Stubbs

The Finest & Bravest’s Red & Blue United Event, Mayor Carol McCutcheon, Cathy Stubbs, Sapana Patel

Child Advocates of Fort Bend Christmas Home Tour, Betty Baitland, David Lanagan, and Pat Somers (photo credit: Favre, Furman and Kij)

The Finest & Bravest’s Red & Blue United Event, S. Scott West and KK West

Photo by Kelley Sweet

by Alisha McMillen

“It’s so rewarding to be a part of this generous community,” Cathy says. “Join us in Fort Bend. Let us help you find your perfect home and become a part of the support.”

The Sanctuary Foster Care Services Annual Gala

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

Out and About in our Community this Fall! Fall is the beginning of event season! On page three, the Cathy Stubbs Team helps you learn about nonprofit events happening this quarter. Check out the community events St. Michael’s Elite Hospital will be in attendance at on page six. It’s almost time for the Sugar Plum Market— read all about it on page five. Learn about the first-ever Clements Homecoming Parade, open to the public, on page 10. And find out all about the Houston Ballet’s Nutcracker Market on page 12.

Publishers John & Alisha McMillen Business Editor Alisha McMillen Layout and Design Night Sky Creative Account Executives 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.

SIDELINED BY TWO BACK SURGERIES, SHE FOUND HER STRENGTH IN PILATES

“I

by Alisha McMillen

had two spinal fusions, and as I was recovering, I tried weight training to build strength and it just wasn’t working well for me,” says Elizabeth Perez-Montes of Studio Pilates International, Missouri City. “Pilates changed my life. I do it every single day, and if I can do it, anyone can.” Elizabeth always wanted to own a business, and she became so passionate about Pilates, it was the perfect business to immerse herself in. “When I came across Studio Pilates International and saw the statement ‘Changing the Way the World Works Out’ on their website, I knew I wanted to learn more,” Elizabeth explains. Studio Pilates didn’t have any locations in the Houston area, so Elizabeth traveled to a Minnesota studio to try it. “I really loved it,” she says. “Pilates helps with joints, posture, core, and general toning.” Soon, Elizabeth, her husband, Edison, and her daughter, Ely (short for Elizabeth), were proud franchise owners of the Houston area’s first Studio Pilates International, conveniently located in Missouri City’s Township Square. Trainers Ashley, Madee, and Chelsey round out the local team. “All of the exercises were designed by physical therapists and every movement is done with intention,” Elizabeth explains. “We’re here for everyone—beginners, intermediate and advanced participants, people who are injured or in recovery. Because our trainers work one-on-one with each guest, they can make modifications to meet their specific needs.” Studio Pilates International, started in 2002, is based in Australia with 135+ franchises around the world. Jade and Tanya Winter, an Olympic swimmer and a physical therapist, set out to deliver the ultimate toning workout 4 ~ UPCLOSE ~ October 2026

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Elizabeth and Ely

with Reformer Pilates classes that combine personalized guidance with the energy of a fun group environment. “Everyone from Studio Pilates International has been incredible. They were here for two weeks before our opening, and they attended opening day. They’re so supportive,” Elizabeth says. Elizabeth and Edison have been settled in Sienna for five years. They have five grown children—four sons and one daughter. Studio Pilates in Missouri City offers classes seven days a week. “We’re creating our own family here at the studio,” Elizabeth explains. “It’s great to see our class attendees building friendships and bonding.” Studio Pilates International, Missouri City 346-368-3518 3334 FM 1092 Rd #405 Missouri City, TX 77459 studiopilates.com/studios /missouri-city/

by Alisha McMillen or a quarter of a century, the Sugar Plum Market has been Fort Bend’s favorite holiday kick-off event! Celebrating its 25th year, this year’s event honors its past markets with a ‘Once Upon a Sugar Plum’ theme. “We wanted to go big this year. Our whole theme honors our past themes and traditions,” says Lindsay Rolph, past-president of the Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL), the market’s presenter. Title Sponsor Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital and Valet Sponsor Momentum BMW both return in 2026, helping to bring much-needed funds to local organizations in the Fort Bend community. Previous grants have contributed to educational programs, food pantries, assistance for women and children, literacy programs, and many other charitable needs. The 2025 Sugar Plum Market earned $317,000. “We are excited to offer our event’s legacy … to remember what the Sugar Plum Market was founded upon,” says FBJSL’s current president, Michelle Vargas. “I don’t think we ever believed we’d be doing such a spectacular market 25 years later.” The market will feature 10 trees, all with nods to themes from the past. The biggest tree honors the event’s 25th anniversary. “We’re bringing back the Fashion show this year.

Top Row: Molly Kolle - Sugar Plum Market Co-Chair, Holly Barker - Sugar Plum Market Co-Chair, Jacquetta Madgett Sugar Plum Market Co-Chair, Melissa Bolding - Sugar Plum Market Co-Chair, Ursula McLendon - Sugar Plum Market Co-Chair, Stacey Schwab - Sugar Plum Market Co-Chair Bottom Row: Monica Hasty - Director of Technology, Lindsay Rolph - Past FBJSL President, Michelle Vargas - FBJSL President, Hanni Nelson - Vice President, Michelle Monterroso - Sugar Plum Market Liaison

It will honor our past co-chairs with a Legacy Walk and Walk of Fame,” Jacquetta Madgett, Sugar Plum Market Co-Chair, explains. A 100% volunteer-run event, it takes more than 250 volunteers over 6,000 hours to put on the event. Preview Night Celebration Tickets are on sale now for the popular Preview Night Celebration for $100 per person. Guests will get a first look at vendor booths, catered bites, and a cash bar.

Tickets:

Get your tickets at

sugarplummarket.com/ticketboxoffice

Preview Night Celebration - $100

Fashion Show “Our FBJSL members are our models for the show, and all of the clothes are provided by our featured vendors,” Michelle says. “The Fashion Show was how the Sugar Plum Market began. It all started with a Fashion Show and small market.”

Wednesday, November 4th, 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. (Limited ticket availability - get your tickets today!)

General Market This year’s vendor count sits at just over 108 booths. Vendors include: jewelry designers, boutiques, hand-crafted items, holiday items, local team gear, food vendors, and more! A cash bar and concessions, including bites from Chick-fil-A Sugar Land, will be available. And Saturday, the magic arives with Santa in attendance.

General Market Hours

“The Fashion Show will sell out. The market tickets will sell out,” Michelle stresses. “We see up to 8,000 visitors at the market every year. Get your tickets today so you don’t miss out on the fun!” Don’t miss the extra-special sparkle at the 25th anniversary of the Sugar Plum Market! Sponsorships are still available. Visit sugarplummarket.com for details. To advertise, 832-567-9712

25th Anniversary Fashion Show - $40 Friday, November 6th, 6 p.m.

$12 Pre-Sale; $15 Box Office Bundled tickets $100 for 10 attendees, Pre-sale only Thursday, November 5th, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Friday, November 6th, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday, November 7th, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Photos with Santa Saturday, November 7th, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Sugar Plum Market November 4 - 7, 2026

Stafford Centre Performing Arts Theatre and Convention Center 10505 Cash Road, Stafford, TX 77477 sugarplummarket.com

UPCLOSE ~ October 2026 ~ 5

Here for Your Emergencies. Here for Your Community. by Nicole Grace t. Michael’s Elite Hospital is here for you help them discover why St. Michael’s is a great in an emergency, and is also proud to be a resource for them in an emergency.” big part of the community. “We want to be • Yappy Hour will be held at Pawm Springs Dog pillars of the community, supporting our local Park at Sugar Land Memorial Park October 29th organizations. We are here for Fort Bend,” says Lauren from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. St. Michael’s is sponsoring a Stai, marketing liaison for the hospital. hydration station at the event. “Staying hydrated is an important theme for us at St. Michael’s Here are some of the community events St. Elite Hospital,” Lauren says. “Every cell, tissue, Michael’s Elite Hospital is involved with. Represenand organ in your body needs water to function tatives will be in attendance at these events to share correctly. And staying hydrated can help you avoid the St. Michael’s vision and answer your questions. a visit to our hospital!” • The Annual Badges & Bogeys Golf Tournament, • The Sugar Land Fall Fest was held at Sugar Land hosted by Assist the Officer, Inc. (ATO), is Town Square on September 19th. “St. Michael’s scheduled for Monday, November 16th. ATO is Elite Hospital contributed as an activity sponsor,” a nonprofit organization that supports Houston Lauren explains. “It was a great opportunity for us Police Officers and their families. “We’re always to get to know residents in our community and here for our hometown heroes and their families,” Lauren says. • St. Michael’s will be the presenting sponsor of this year’s Sugar Land Christmas Tree Lighting on November 20th at Sugar Land Town Square. • Spring will bring the city’s International Art & Kite Festival at the Crown Festival Park. St. Michael’s will sponsor a hydration station. • In another hydration station sponsorship, St. Michael’s Elite Hospital will participate in the city’s summer kickoff event, Food Truck Friday, in June at Sugar Land Memorial Park.

We’re here for our

hometown heroes! • Firefighters • Law enforcement • EMS • Nurses • Educators You’ll be seen quickly and receive outstanding care.

The St. Michael’s name has been trusted by its Fort Bend neighbors for nearly two decades. “At St. Michael’s, we have a strong commitment to fast, compassionate, and highquality emergency care,” says the hospital’s CEO, Sean Johnson. “We’re dedicated to putting you and your family first— 24/7. Come visit us out in the community to learn why you should visit us if you ever need emergency care.” St. Michael’s Elite Hospital 281-980-4357 16000 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77479 24hrer.com

ANNUAL ENROLLMENT PERIOD OCT. 15 - DEC 7 PLANS CHANGE, SO CAN YOUR HEALTH NEEDS.

Medicare plans change each year. Don’t assume your current coverage is still your best choice. Review your current plan, costs and health needs, then see how other plan options compare. Kaushi Shah English | Hindi Gujarati (832) 282-3515 kaushi@ksinsurances.com

Keren Delaune English | Spanish (281) 236-1321 kerendelaune@gmail.com

Lucia Zhang | 张穗英 English | Mandarin | Cantonese (281) 745-2288 suiyingzhang@yahoo.com

Cindy Posas English (832) 704-5112 cindycase3@gmail.com

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.

6 ~ UPCLOSE ~ October 2026

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Bumps, Bangs & Gurgles?

by Nicole Grace

Don’t Get Spooked. Call the Pros!

on’t let strange sounds coming from your plumbing scare you. Unusual plumbing sounds typically point to underlying issues like high water pressure, trapped air, partial clogs, or worn-out hardware. Here’s what your pipes may be trying to tell you when they are making abnormal sounds. Common Plumbing Sounds and Their Meanings • Banging or Knocking (Water Hammer): This can be caused when fast-flowing water is abruptly stopped or changes direction, sending a shock wave through the pipes. It can also mean pipes are loose and striking against wall studs. • Whistling or Screeching: These sounds can be triggered by high water pressure rushing through a restricted opening, a partially closed valve, or a worn-out faucet washer. • Gurgling or Bubbling: Hearing this may indicate trapped air or a partial blockage in your drain or main sewer line, forcing air bubbles to push back up through the

standing water in traps. It can also point to a blocked or improperly sized plumbing vent. • Low Rumbling or Vibrating: This sound is often heard near a water heater and caused by heavy sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank, which overheats and boils trapped water. Vibrating near toilets often points to a worn fill valve diaphragm. • Humming: This is usually a sign that your home’s main water pressure is set too high. (Ideal pressure sits around 60–70 PSI). • Ticking or Tapping: You may hear this when metal pipes expand and contract as hot water runs through them, rubbing against wooden framing or wall joists. When to Call the Pros If banging sounds are coming from inaccessible areas, the sound is getting progressively worse, you have an old plumbing system, or you suspect a hidden leak, call a professional plumber for evaluation. “We’re here at Alan’s Plumbing to make sure spooky sounds don’t turn into serious

problems,” says Luke Burkhalter, son of the namesake of the company, Alan Burkhalter. “If a sound continues and you’re unable to find its origin, or the fix is bigger than a doit-yourself project, call us to come out and take a look.” For 30 years, Alan’s Plumbing has been the go-to, honest, licensed plumbing company here in Fort Bend. 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.

Alan’s Plumbing

281-261-1064 License M-18995

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

UPCLOSE ~ October 2026 ~ 7

Classic Chevrolet

Honors Judge

Hebert’s Legacy of Community Service

“I

endeavors,” Ray explains. “During disasters, he looked to Classic to help wherever it was needed.” “He loved his community, his family, golf, red wines, and cigars. I miss the evenings sitting in his backyard, drinking wine and smoking cigars,” Ray says. “He didn’t care about parties—he just invited people to have good conversations with.”

by Nicole Grace

ve known Bob for 25 years,” says Ray Aguilar, who handles community outreach for Classic Chevrolet. “Over the years, we worked together for the community through many disasters, and Bob’s humility during those times was honorable—he always passed the glory and attributed the success to everyone else involved.” For 15 years, Judge Robert E. “Bob” Hebert served the Fort Bend community through what county officials called “an extraordinary period of growth and change” up through Hurricane Harvey in 2017. After his death at the age of 84 in August, the former judge is remembered in the community for his leadership, generosity, and public service. With Classic’s similar commitment to the community, Ray worked closely with Judge Hebert over the years. “He made difficult

decisions that needed to be made as a judge,” Ray explains. “Any time something happened in our community, he was there.” “His answer was always yes to the community. There was never a need that he didn’t respond to, especially when the need was for those most vulnerable, like our county’s seniors, children, veterans, adults with special needs,” Ray continues. “If it was cold, he found a way to provide blankets. If it was hot, he found a way to provide fans and a/c units.” As important as his community was to him, his family was the center of his world. He and his wife, Pat, raised three children together. “Bob adored his family. He deeply loved his wife, three daughters, and his sons-in-law. And they, in turn, are very loyal to their father,” Ray says. As for Classic’s relationship with Judge Hebert, “He was a customer, and a loyal supporter of Classic’s community

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

Fort Bend County’s Emergency Operations Center Has a New Name:

Robert E. “Bob” Hebert

Emergency Operations Center

he county lost a great champion for its community in August when Judge Robert E. “Bob” Hebert passed away. Judge Hebert’s commitment to the county, especially during emergencies, led Fort Bend to honor him by renaming the state-of-the-art Emergency Operations Center for him. The naming ceremony occurred on September 24th and attracted civil servants from across the county. Current Fort Bend County Judge Daniel Wong spoke, as well as Pct. 1 Commissioner Vincent Morales. But the most moving message came from Judge Hebert’s daughter Shelley Hebert Hannes, as a representative for his loving family. Shelley entertained the audience with a story about how when other kids were planning sleepovers, “Dad was running fire drills in our home,” she remembered. “Dad taught us that when people need help, you show up. That’s the legacy we move forward with.” Judge Hebert was known for his servant’s heart. He stewarded major infrastructure projects, expanded public services, and navigated severe challenges like Hurricanes Ike and Harvey with steady resolve. Even in retirement, he continued serving his neighbors, notably leading Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels. Fort Bend County promises “His profound legacy of leadership and devotion to family and community will never be forgotten.”

UPCLOSE ~ October 2026 ~ 9

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newsletter

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10 ~ UPCLOSE ~ October 2026

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DENTAL Health: Pro Tips for Parents

Balancing Halloween Treats With by Nicole Grace

Healthy Smiles

he month of October can bring cooler weather, football, pumpkins … and candy! Halloween means swengeet treats are all around us. During this time, it’s inevitable that children will consume sweet and gooey treats with added sugar. Dr. Faisal Khan, owner of Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental and Memorial Pediatric Dentistry, says, “Halloween candy doesn’t have to be your enemy. There are ways to avoid the cavities and other problems that can come along with consuming higher than normal sugars and sweets.” The Spookiest Sweets in Your Halloween Haul “Sticky candies like caramels, gummies, and taffy are worse for the mouth because they stick to the grooves in your teeth and linger in your mouth longer, giving more time for decay to develop,” Dr. Khan says. “Hard candies and lollipops can also get stuck in the teeth and, when left too long, can start the deterioration process, leading to cavities. And jawbreakers sit in the mouth for a long time, resulting in exposure to sugar for a longer period of time and their extreme hardness can crack or chip tooth enamel.” He says sour candies can also cause problems. “They contain sugar and are both sticky and acidic, so they break down tooth enamel faster, making teeth more prone to decay,” he explains. Smile Approved Treats Here’s good news for chocolate lovers. “Chocolate is better for your teeth because it dissolves off the teeth more quickly,” Dr. Khan explains. “Dark chocolate has less sugar than milk chocolate and contains natural compounds that fight mouth bacteria, so your best choice is dark chocolate.” Protect the Pearly Whites from Halloween Bites The best way to avoid dental problems as the result of eating a lot of Halloween candy is simple. “Brush your teeth immediately after eating candy to help prevent cavities from forming,” says Dr. Khan. Remember that baby teeth, even though they will fall out, still need to be taken care of. A child’s teeth save space for their adult teeth to grow into later, and healthy mouths mean fewer issues as they age. “With younger children, parents may need to help finish their child’s brushing job to be sure they are brushing each corner of the mouth,” Dr. Khan continues. “Braces or expanders also make it difficult to brush around the hardware and can increase the risk of cavities.”

To advertise, 832-567-9712

Chomp with Confidence this Halloween Though Dr. Khan provides advice on how to handle Halloween candy, he doesn’t want families to worry so much that they don’t enjoy the holiday. “One night of candy doesn’t cause cavities—it’s the weeks of grazing on the haul that can cause problems,” says Dr. Khan. “Teeth can handle a sugar hit and recover; what they can’t handle is being bathed in sugar all day, every day, for a month. So the real strategy isn’t prohibiting candy completely. It’s managing the aftermath.” At Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental’s two offices, Dr. Khan is joined by Dr. David Tang, Dr. Priyanshi Ritwik, Dr. Anna Feng, and Dr. Khadija Khan, along with an oral surgeon and an anesthesiologist, in providing all aspects of pediatric dentistry, special needs dentistry, and minor orthodontics. Dr. Khan and his teams at Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental and Memorial Pediatric Dentistry wish you and your family a fun and safe Halloween.

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 Dentistry Dr. Khan, Dr. Tang 281-822-6600 791 Town & Country Blvd., Suite 210 Houston, TX 77024 memorialpediatricdds.com UPCLOSE ~ October 2026 ~ 11

His Garage, Her Craft Room, Their Backyard Retreat

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.

by Nicole Grace

hat started as a project to protect their vehicles turned into several impactful projects for Linda and David, including the addition of a porte-cochere, increasing the footprint of the current garage (and adding a lift storage system), building a stand-alone craft room (complete with air conditioning), and turning the backyard into a private oasis. Richmond residents since 1991 and married for 57 years, Linda and David raised three girls in Pecan Grove. They’re now proud grandparents of four grandchildren and pet parents to their dog, Trixie, and their 75-year-old Cockatoo, CT. Linda also feeds a local family of ducklings. The couple had used The Re-Modelista (Teri Gilberg) for several interior renovations, including updating their 2½ bathrooms, so they knew who to call to do the garage and backyard work. “I told Teri I didn’t want it to look like an addition. I wanted it to look like it had always belonged there,” Linda said about the new porte-cochere and bigger garage. “When the team was working on the garage, Teri asked if there was anything else I really wanted to do. My top choice was a craft room.” Teri came up with a plan to add onto the garage, setting aside a space to make Linda’s dedicated craft room. “I’ve been a crafter all my life. I can’t think of anything I love more,” she explains. When the garage and craft room were completed, Linda took a

close look at her backyard and wasn’t happy. “There was a koi pond, but we had let it go. We didn’t have grass and it was all dirt and tree roots,” Linda explains. “I had long curtains in my living room so I didn’t have to see the yard.” Linda wanted grass for Trixie, nice walkways, and some Adirondack chairs around a fire pit. “I wanted a place to sit on the porch and eat breakfast with a cappuccino,” she says. “When the project was complete and I walked out back, my knees got so weak I felt like they were going to buckle. I started crying with happiness. I’ve never felt such emotion.” Teri’s subcontractors replastered the pond, created a nice walkway to the craft room, added grass, and gave her the desired fire pit and sitting area. The couple was so happy, they removed the long curtains so they could look outside whenever they wanted to see their beautiful backyard. “David got his wish—a bigger garage, lift, and extra storage. And I got my craft room,” Linda says. “I’m running out of projects, but I’ll definitely use Teri again. She’s incredible … so accommodating. I couldn’t put together a better team. They are absolutely the best.”

The Re-Modelista Your Home Renovation Specialist Serving Fort Bend County For More Than 10 Years NEW OFFICE LOCATION in Feather & Nest Interiors 3711 Raoul Wallenberg Lane Missouri City, TX 77459 832-731-3191 theremodelista.com

To advertise, 832-567-9712

UPCLOSE ~ October 2026 ~ 13

UpClose Magazine Asked. You Answered.

n UpClose Magazine’s first-ever newsletter distributed in August, we polled our readers to find out what they wanted to hear about most in the pages of the magazine. The topic you wanted to learn about most was community events (36% of readers), followed closely by referrals from neighbors to reliable businesses (34%) and new Fort Bend businesses (31%).

“You can see that the response was very closely split between the three topics,” says John McMillen, publisher of UpClose Magazine. “We were happy to hear that we’re already covering the topics our readers want to hear about and will take this information to heart in our future issues.” Community Events The October issue is chock full of information about community events. Read the Cathy Stubbs Team article, the St. Michaels’ Elite Hospital article, and even the information about the first-ever Clements Homecoming Parade being held October 18th. And don’t miss the center spread article about the county’s building dedication to Judge Robert E. “Bob” Hebert. Referrals from Neighbors to Reliable Businesses Read about how Linda and David hired the Re-Modelista again and again for their home projects. This time, they used her for a garage/ craftroom/backyard project!

Feedback Summary Community Events

36%

Referrals from Neighbors to Reliable Businesses

31%

New Fort Bend Businesses

34%

New Fort Bend Businesses Check out our cover article—Mission-Driven Fitness is opening a brand new personal training studio right behind First Colony Mall. World Coins & Collectibles (WOCCO) recently opened their doors at Hwy 59 and Williams Trace. “UpClose readers—we want you to know we heard you and will keep providing you with the information that you love reading about,” John concludes. “And we’re always here if you want to reach out about anything.”

DESIGN INSPIRATION

2026

Step into your own SPA!

Lone Star Floors • 3 Locations • lonestarfloors.com Sugar Land: 281-564-1345 10009 Highway 6 South Sugar Land, TX

14 ~ UPCLOSE ~ October 2026

Katy: 281-398-2319 873 South Mason Rd. #300 Katy, TX

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Woodlands: 832-813-0813 24627 I-45 North Suite # A The Woodlands/Spring, TX

G E T

M O R E

F R O M

LONE STAR

FLOORS

Beyond Gold and Silver:

Coins That Tell Our Story by Alisha McMillen

Store Manager Chase and Owner Bryan

“C

oins are more than just gold and silver. They’re a part of our history,” says Bryan Castro, owner of World Coins & Collectibles (WOCCO) in Sugar Land. “We love talking to our customers, both buyers and sellers, about the stories that are attached to certain coins or the art of collecting coins.” To start WOCCO, Bryan brought some coins with him from his home country of

Colombia. But most of the store’s collection comes from the customers in the community who have visited his shop. “In Colombia, I was exporting precious metals to Dubai and the United States. But here my main business is buying and selling cherished coins and other collectible items, like Federal Reserve bills and silver and gold certificates. “We have confederate money, silver libertads (Mexican coins), lunar calendar coins, and our special edition gold coins celebrating the United State’s 250th anniversary,” Bryan explains. He has a Spanish gold coin from 1685, another gold coin from 1769, a kilo of silver from Australia, a 2026 American Buffalo one ounce proof coin, and a 2026 American Eagle gold coin proof set, as well as collectible sports memorabilia. “I just love old coins,” Bryan stresses. “When you see a coin, you see its history. You know that these coins were used during wars and other significant historical events.”

While Bryan loves meeting his neighbors in the store, much of the time, his store manager, Chase, is the one behind the counter helping the customers. “We see coins from all different countries,” Chase says. “People love seeing all of the different collectibles we have and it opens up a lot of conversations.” “We always put our customers first,” Bryan explains. “We try to offer the best prices, and we take time to have great conversations about our customers’ memories around the coins they’re selling.” The shop is set up to be a comfortable space to share stories and have in-depth discussions. It has comfortable sofas and chairs and Bryan and Chase allow their customers to take their

time. “We also have special equipment that shows the purity of coins. We don’t keep products in the store that are not of good quality,” Bryan adds. A new business open only a few months, WOCCO maintains a 4.8 average score on review sites such as Google and Yelp, and Bryan and Chase are dedicated to keeping that score high. “Our reviews are good and are growing,” Bryan says. “In just a few months, we have 80+ reviews. We’re happy

to know our customers are having good experiences. We just want them to get to know us. We try to help educate them on coins, but we also learn a lot from them.” WOCCO 832-647-5100 15229 Southwest Fwy Sugar Land, TX 77478 wocco-usa.com

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