UpClose Magazine - November 2026 by Digital Publisher

S E D I T P E P f o R E POW Magazine

November 2026

The

raise IGF-1 levels. Results may include visceral fat reduction and improvements in lean muscle preservation, reduced liver fat in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) contexts, and favorable changes in triglycerides. “Tesamorelin may also increase collagen, resulting in better skin, better hair, and better health,” Dr. Aly states. BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound-157) is a synthetic 15-amino-acid peptide derived from a protein found in human gastric juice. “Some benefits from BPC-157 may include musculoskeletal recovery, joint pain relief, gut health, and wound and tissue repair,” Dr. Aly explains. GLP-1 for weight loss. GLP-1 is a short chain of amino acids produced in your gut after you eat. “GLP-1 is obviously the most-discussed peptide in recent months,” Dr. Aly says. “It acts as a signaling molecule to stimulate insulin secretion, slow down stomach emptying, and signal fullness to your brain.” In addition to these impactful peptides, Allure Aesthetics still offers the services clients have been using for years. “NAD (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide), often called the ‘Fountain of Youth,’ can help with immunity and inflammation, and has anti-aging benefits.” Allure also offers Botox and fillers, Tixel sculpting and resurfacing, and Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) for both males and females.

UNDERSTANDING PEPTIDES:

THE NEXT CHAPTER IN WELLNESS

eptides. You’ve heard the buzz. But what are they, really? And how do they contribute to your personal wellness? “Peptides are short chains of amino acids—the building blocks of proteins— that act as chemical messengers in the body, instructing cells and organs on how to function,” says Dr. Salman Aly, medical director of Allure Aesthetics and Capital Health & Wellness (primary care). “They can regulate hormones, act as biological signals, such as telling skin cells to produce collagen and elastin, and control body functions by orchestrating immune responses, encouraging tissue repair, and stimulating pain relief, like endorphins.”

by Alisha McMillen

You’ll find these powerful peptides at Allure Aesthetics. Glow peptides are an injectable or topical peptide combination for skin rejuvenation, anti-aging, and tissue repair. “We’ve seen good results in improving skin firmness, smoothing fine lines, boosting hydration, speeding up postprocedure or workout recovery, and promoting hair/nail vitality,” Dr. Aly says. Tesamorelin is a synthetic peptide analog of human growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog that stimulates the pituitary gland to produce natural growth hormone and

“At Allure Aesthetics, we care about your mental health, sexual health, longevity, energy, and confidence. We care about your overall wellbeing,” Dr. Aly states. “We offer state-of-the-art aesthetic procedures and services that help our patients get and stay healthy.” Dr. Salman shares space with his brother, Dr. Sarfraz Aly, medical director of Capital Infectious Disease Associates and Capital Advanced Wound Care. Originally from Sugar Land, the brothers enjoy serving the people of the community where they grew up. Allure Aesthetics 6903 Brisbane Ct #100 Sugar Land, TX 77479 allureaestheticsmd.com 346-309-4955

Lifestyles & Living kw sw ®

CHEERS TO AN ENDURING SOCIAL SCENE IN FORT BEND

Photo by Kelley Sweet

by Alisha McMillen

ave you heard of the Sugar Land Social District? It’s a place, right in the heart of Sugar Land, where you can enjoy your favorite drinks outdoors while exploring the city’s best dining, shopping, and entertainment. It connects the energy of Sugar Land Town Square and First Colony Mall, creating a fun, walkable experience that supports local businesses and celebrates community.

The Sugar Land Social District Monday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to 2:15 a.m. Sunday, noon to 2:15 a.m.

In the Sugar Land Social District, visitors may responsibly enjoy alcoholic beverages outdoors from participating establishments, consistent with Texas state law and City ordinances. It includes participating restaurants in Sugar Land Town Square and the outdoor section of First Colony Mall. It officially launched in December 2025, but received a boost in attention—and participation—with the many World Cup events scheduled in the district over the summer. “Sugar Land is known for its family appeal—it’s the perfect cozy city with its own list of impressive amenities, but residents can also enjoy the perks of being just a 15-20 minute drive to the big city. Sugar Land is the perfect place to raise your family, with children’s activities, sports teams, lots of green space, and great schools,” says Cathy Stubbs of the Cathy Stubbs Team. “Now there’s added appeal for young people without children who may not always think about living in the suburbs, and even for parents looking for a fun date night experience. It’s the Sugar Land Social District, which is just one more way the city is showing that it caters to everyone in our diverse community.” Major cities and smaller towns alike are exploring, debating, or implementing open-container social zones, and Sugar Land was an early adopter of the idea. Adults aged 21 and older can walk outdoors with alcoholic beverages in designated,

marked cups purchased from participating local establishments. Drinks must be disposed of when exiting the boundary, and standard TABC guidelines apply. Some of the popular establishments participating in the social district are diner favorites Flying Saucer, B.B. Italia, Fish City Grill, Jupiter Pizza & Waffle Co., Japaneiro’s, P.F. Chang’s, Vino & Vinyl, The Rouxpour, Bar Louie, and Little Woodrow’s. “Sugar Land is the community that has it all. The Sugar Land Social District is one more local perk that residents can enjoy, in addition to the amenities residents have been enjoying for decades,” Cathy says. “Join us in Sugar Land. Let us help you find your perfect home, where you can work, play, and enjoy a fun night out on the town.”

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

Publishers John & Alisha McMillen

The publishers of UpClose Magazine, John and Alisha McMillen, would like to encourage our readers to donate this month, as you are able, to one of the many organizations that help provide meals to Fort Bend families in the month of November.

Business Editor Alisha McMillen Layout and Design Night Sky Creative Account Executives John McMillen Gina Pizzini Writers Alisha McMillen Nicole Grace

East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry humanneeds.org Catholic Charities catholiccharities.org/mgcc

Photography J. Thomas “Jay” Ford UpClose Magazine is published monthly, landing directly in your neighbors’ mailboxes. For information on having your business

Rosenberg Richmond Helping Hands roserichhelpinghands.org

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.

PRESENT ED BY

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FALL IN FORT BEND:

A SEASON TO COME TOGETHER

A Sixth-Generation Fort Bend County Native Celebrates Community, Tradition, and Giving Back by Nicole Grace For attorney James Amaro, being a sixth-generation Fort Bend County native carries a sense of responsibility. Growing up among hardworking families who looked out for one another influenced the values he carries today as a husband, father of three, and founder of Amaro Law Firm. “Growing up in Fort Bend taught me that community isn’t just about where you live. It’s about the people around you and the responsibility you have to one another,” says James. “I want my children to be proud of where they come from, but also recognize that being part of a community means contributing to it.” That philosophy has guided Amaro Law Firm through two decades of growth, including this year’s grand opening of its expanded headquarters. The milestone reflects the dedication of its team, the trust of its clients, and a continued commitment to the Fort Bend community. For James, the Fort Bend County Fair is an opportunity to share a childhood tradition with his own children while celebrating the community that shaped him. This fall, he joined his family and the firm’s team aboard their parade float, continuing a tradition that brings generations of Fort Bend families together. Their efforts earned first place in the commercial category for the fifth consecutive year and the Overall Outstanding Float award for the second consecutive year. Beyond the Fair, Amaro Law Firm sponsors family celebrations at Constellation Field, including October’s Halloween Town and the upcoming Sugar Land Holiday Lights, featuring a 40-foot Christmas tree and ice rink. Through Project Backpack, the firm distributed more than 750 backpacks filled with school supplies, partnering with local schools and community organizations and hosting its own

Photo Credit Alex Lopez

distribution event at its Sugar Land office on historic Brooks Street. Education is particularly meaningful to James, whose college education was made possible through academic scholarships. This year, the firm awarded $2,500 scholarships to Fort Bend graduates Dylan Campbell, attending MIT, and Camden Mitchell,

attending Howard University. The scholarships recognize students who demonstrate the firm’s number one core value, “Be used and useful to others,” through advocating for others. “I know firsthand what it means when someone invests in your future,” James says. “When we support students, we’re doing more than helping with the cost of school. We’re recognizing their potential and encouraging them to carry that same spirit of service forward. That’s how you build something that lasts beyond any one person or generation.” As Fort Bend continues to grow and change, James Amaro remains committed to the values that shaped him: caring for others, investing in the next generation, and helping build a community future generations can be proud to call home.

Amaro Law Firm 713-864-1941 Sugar Land: 322 Brooks Street Houston (Principal Office): 2500 E. TC Jester Blvd., Suite 525 www.amarolawfirm.com For more information: fortbendvip@amarolawfirm.com

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Lighting the Tree and Brightening the Community by Alisha McMillen t. Michael’s Elite Hospital Sugar Land is proud seasonal shopping and nearby dining will to be the presenting sponsor of the 2026 also be available. Sugar Land Christmas Tree Lighting. With The highlight of the event is the a dedication to supporting its community, ceremonial lighting of Sugar Land’s iconic St. Michael’s will be onsite to introduce themselves to Christmas tree that stands front and center community members. of the Sugar Land City Hall building. Free “We are working to be pillars of the community parking is available at Mercer Stadium, supporting our local organizations, and this event with complimentary shuttles running offers the perfect way for us to nurture our great continuously to Town Square from 4:30 relationships with our neighbors,” says Lauren Stai, p.m. to 9:30 p.m. the hospital’s marketing liaison. St. Michael’s Elite Hospital is Visit Sugar Land Town Center on Friday, Novem- committed to keeping new and returning ber 20th to participate in the exciting holiday activi- customers happy. “When people are experiencing ties. Guests can write letters to Santa, sip delicious a medical emergency, they want to be seen quickly hot chocolate, and experience creative face painting. by experienced medical professionals,” CEO Sean Families can capture special holiday memories at one Johnson explains. “We see happy, repeat visitors who of the illuminating photo opportunities throughout often see the same physicians who have helped them the event. The whole group can gather in front of for years.” the mainstage to watch talented performers rejoice “Everyone at St. Michael’s is excited to take with festive music and holiday cheer. And, of course, part in this exciting event that is so important to

Sugar Land Christmas Tree Lighting 2026 Friday, November 20, 2026 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. Sugar Land Town Square 2711 Plaza Drive, Sugar Land, TX 77479 Free admission

Dear Sugar Land, The Medicare system is changing. Give us a call if you are affected by:

our community of Sugar Land,” Lauren concludes. “It will be a fun, all-ages event to kick off the holidays in a festive way. Be sure to stop by our booth at the event—we’ll be there to answer all of your questions.” Get ready for an evening full of smiles, laughter, and special Christmas magic! St. Michael’s Elite Hospital 281-980-4357 16000 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77479 24hrer.com

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Driving Holiday Cheer Throughout the Community

“N

by Nicole Grace

ovember and December offer great opportunities for us at Classic Chevrolet to help our community,” says Ray Aguilar, who handles community outreach for Classic Chevrolet. “With Thanksgiving and Christmas, and the many deserving groups in Fort Bend, we have a great time joining together to help our neighbors.”

Operation Thanksgiving,” Ray explains. All collected canned goods and non-perishables are donated to local area food pantries to help families in need during the holiday season. Toys for Tots has brought hope, joy, and the spirit of Christmas to millions of children across our nation, and specifically for our community, throughout Fort Bend County. “It’s a well-known and dependable program,” Ray says. “We collect toys to donate to the campaign to ensure every child has a gift for the holiday season.”

bags even contain a small Christmas trinket to brighten the day of the recipient. “It’s so important to support your community all year long, but the holiday season brings an

American Legion Raymond Freeman Post 942 in Sugar Land collects donations of new toys, gift cards, and cash, which are all distributed directly to local children and families during the American Legion’s Annual Christmas Toy Giveaway held at the post.

Operation Thanksgiving is an annual holiday food drive hosted by the Missouri City Police Department and Missouri City Fire & Rescue Services. “We pack a Classic Chevy box truck to the brim with provisions to donate to

Fort Bend Animal Shelter has a year-round food and supply drive that ramps up as the holidays approach. “We collect and donate food and supplies, like unopened wet or dry adult dog and cat food, soft treats, and cat litter,” Ray explains. “We also donate cleaning items, including laundry detergent, paper towels, and Clorox wipes.” Secret Santa Drive by Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels collects holiday gifts for area senior clients in Fort Bend and Waller counties. Each client receives a large, reusable holiday-themed shopping bag packed with a new, gender-neutral towel set, and items like calendars for the upcoming year, toiletries, a flashlight or nightlight, jar openers, large-print activity books, and slip-proof socks. Some To advertise, 832-567-9712

added need to help our neighbors feel special and seen,” Ray says. “All kids and seniors should enjoy gifts for Christmas, and everyone should have a full, nutritious meal on the table at the holidays.”

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

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Avoid Holiday Plumbing

DISASTERS Before They Start

he holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and spending time with loved ones. But it can also be a time when plumbing emergencies strike unexpectedly. “Holiday celebrations mean more guests are at your home, which can put a strain on your plumbing system,” says Alan Burkhalter, owner and namesake of local Alan’s Plumbing. “Prepare your home now to avoid holiday emergencies.” Be prepared: First things first, familiarize yourself with where the main water shut-off valve is in your home. Turning off the water quickly can help prevent further damage in case of a burst pipe or major leak. Inspect your drains and garbage disposal: “The first rule of using your kitchen sink is to never put grease down any drains,” Alan says. “Grease and oils can solidify in your pipes and cause blockages.” You should also avoid throw-

by Nicole Grace

ing fibrous or starchy foods, like potato peels For 30 years, Alan’s Plumbing has or celery, down your drain, as it could jam the been the go-to, honest, licensed plumbdisposal. ing company here in Fort Bend. Alan and his brother, Chris, work alongside How to handle excessive use of toilets and the team of plumbers that includes sons sewer lines: “Make sure no toilets are running Beau and Luke (youngest brother Jake or leaking when flushed,” Alan says. “Most does plumbing sales), longtime plumbimportantly—ensure all of your visitors know ers Jaime, Christian, and Anthony, and that flushable wipes are, in fact, not flushable!” Nick, Noah, and PJ. “Be sure to reach out to us ahead Water heater maintenance: “Sediment can of time to ensure your plumbing is accumulate in your water heater over time, in good shape for your guests,” Alan reducing its efficiency,” Alan adds. “Flush your concludes. “That way, you can focus tanks to be sure your water heaters are per- on what really matters—spending time forming properly. This is especially important with family and friends.” if you will be having extra guests over the holidays, taxing your water heating system from the extra use.” Alan’s Plumbing The experienced and thorough team at Alan’s Plumbing can help with all of these tasks.

281-261-1064 License M-18995 RMP Alan Burkhalter

WWW.ALANS.PLUMBING

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DENTAL Health: Pro Tips for Parents

Meet the Dentists Behind Your Smile by Nicole Grace

t 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. UpClose Magazine asked your trusted dentists some fun, get-to-know you questions that we thought you, their patients and future patients, would find interesting. Dr. Faisal Khan, Owner Coffee, tea, or soda? Coffee. Morning person or night owl? Morning person. Favorite food? Pizza and donuts. Weekend hobby? Chilling with my kids … and Detroit Lions football. Best vacation? Disney cruise with the kiddos when they were little.

Dr. David Tang, Memorial Pediatric Dentistry Coffee, tea, or soda? Coffee. Italian. Segafredo. Morning person or night owl? I love sunrises, but I am also a night owl. I love an afternoon nap. Weekend hobby? Dogs! I train them and teach agility. Best vacation? Road trip to Banff, Canada through Colorado, Yellowstone, and Glacier National Park. Dream travel destination? Alaska.

Dr. Anna Feng Cats, dogs, or something else? Dogs!! If I could have a river otter, I would love that, but until then, I’ll have Cavapoos! Best vacation? Hiking in Rwanda with Silverback gorillas. Dream travel destination? Swimming with orcas in Norway. What is a fun fact about you that most people at work do not know? I never went to the dentist until I was four years old, and I had to go under general anesthesia to have six silver crowns and have teeth extracted. My goal for all children and parents is education and prevention! It’s a full circle now.

To advertise, 832-567-9712

Dr. Khadija Khan Coffee, tea, or soda? Tea. Morning person or night owl? Morning person. Favorite food? Asian or Mediterranean. Favorite movie? The Shawshank Redemption If you could have any superpower, what would it be? Seeing the future. Weekend hobby? Spending time with family and trying new restaurants in Houston. Best vacation? Sicily and Sardinia, Italy. What is your best “dentist” tip? Don’t rinse your mouth with water after brushing with toothpaste.

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 ~ November 2026 ~ 9

Creating Beautiful Experiences That Bring People Together

by Nicole Grace

iki Stripling is gearing up for the holiday season. It’s one of her favorite times of year when she gets to help families, friends, and businesses share in the joy of the season at events and parties. And what would a party be without a food spread that people talk about for weeks? Owner and creative curator for Bee A Little Cheesy, Miki has been providing joy in the form of food for her own family and friends for years. She loves creating her own personal spreads for intimate family events with her mom and two daughters. “I learned a lot of my cooking skills from my mom. She loves to cook,” Miki says. “And my girls have inherited the gene too. We love to prepare for events together.” Bee A Little Cheesy handles events of all sizes—their biggest event so far has been for 300 guests. “As a women-owned, family-run business, the heart of our business has always been in the details,” Miki says. “Over the years, we’ve had the honor of serving everything from intimate tea parties and baby showers to NFL events, large corporate functions, weddings, and engagement celebrations. No matter the occasion, every graze table we design is uniquely customized with the client’s vision in mind—no two are ever the same.” “Food, people, faith, community—these are the values that Bee A Little Cheesy was built on. From a cozy gathering with close friends to a grand, elegant celebration, we’re equipped to make your experience seamless and delicious,” Miki continues. “We listen, we plan, and we create with purpose because your event deserves something as one-of-a-kind as you are.” Be A Little Cheesy offers more than charcuterie, including customized menus, elaborate grazing tables, desserts, and event presentation. “We offer more than beautiful food—it’s about creating meaningful experiences, building relationships, and taking the stress out of hosting,” Miki explains. Make your next gathering unforgettable with Bee A Little Cheesy! From

stunning spreads to delicious bites that bring people together, they turn any event into something worth celebrating. Follow Bee A Little Cheesy on Instagram and Facebook for a taste of their latest creations, and start dreaming up the perfect spread for your next event. Bee a Little Cheesy 281-409-4107 info@beealittlecheesy.com www.beealittlecheesy.com

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Saddle Up for a Cause! Celebrating 48 Years of Best in the West

by Alisha McMillen

his month, The Arc of Fort Bend County is hosting its 48th Annual Best in the West, one of Fort Bend County’s premier fundraising events. The Arc of Fort Bend County ensures opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to maximize their quality of life within our community. “Whether it’s a parent navigating special education services for their young child, or a sibling stepping into the caregiving role for their adult brother or sister with a disability, The Arc is here for them through every stage of life,” says Karri Axtell, CEO of The Arc of Fort Bend County. “We provide guidance and opportunities to connect with others who understand the journey.” The community will gather on Saturday, November 21st at the iconic George Ranch Arena for a dinner of delicious BBQ, warm cookies from Tiff ’s Treats Stafford, and a dance headed up by a popular live band, Cooper Wade & Unclaimed Freight. Guests can participate in exciting silent and live auctions, as well as a photo booth and bid board.

48th Annual Best in the West Saturday, November 21st 6 p.m. - 11 p.m. George Ranch Arena 10215 FM 762 Road Richmond, TX 77469 Tickets BestInTheWest26.givesmart.com

Some of this year’s live auction items include: • Three-night stay in Fredericksburg • One-week stay in Costa Rica • A condo in Lake Las Vegas

and buy raffle tickets for a chance to win a brand new 4-passenger VCart cruiser. There is also a popular Wine Pull, with some bottles valued at almost $100. Sponsorships and individual tickets are still available. Don’t miss this fun chance to get decked out in your finest western wear and dine and dance for a cause.

This year’s auction will once again feature Fort Bend’s auctioneer, James Patterson. Attendees can also bid on hundreds of silent auction items

The Arc of Fort Bend County 281-494-5920 407 Julie Rivers Dr. Sugar Land, TX. 77478 arcoffortbend.org

Coins That Tell Our Story

Studio Pilates International, Missouri City 346-368-3518 3334 FM 1092 Rd #405, Missouri City, TX 77459 studiopilates.com/studios/missouri-city/

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WOCCO 832-647-5100 15229 Southwest Fwy Sugar Land, TX 77478 wocco-usa.com

Thanks to SPOT, Shelter Dogs Find Love and Forever Homes by Nicole Grace ort Bend County Animal Services often has more than 200 dogs in residence, even though the shelter was designed to house no more than 90 dogs at a time. The sad truth is that the shelter cannot keep all of these dogs indefinitely. It is not a no-kill shelter out of sheer necessity, but the dedicated shelter employees work hard to help place as many dogs as possible in loving homes. Enter Stacey Jones and Saving Pups of Texas (SPOT). Stacey has been in the rescue world for more than 15 years. A 501c3 rescue, SPOT rescues dogs from euthanasia lists at local animal shelters, as well as abandoned dogs. Stacey keeps close tabs John and Alisha with Sully on the dogs brought into local shelters, at the shelter desperately trying to help these animals find their forever homes. One of those dogs, Churro, caught the eye of Alisha McMillen, publisher of UpClose Magazine, when she was scrolling through social media. His sweet smile and long, gangly legs just spoke to her, especially after the McMillens lost their big, goofy, gangly lab earlier this year. After living in the shelter for more than four months, Churro was in his last days—the shelter just couldn’t continue to house him with zero interest from adopters. With the help of Stacey, the McMillens became SPOT fosters and brought Churro into their home. They and their six-year-old golden retriever, Scout, fell in love with Stacey Jones and one of her him and quickly turned from fosters into adopters. They lucky rescues re-named him Sully. Sully has a goofy smile. His tongue lazily hangs out of the left side of his mouth. He went through something traumatic before he came to the shelter and, eventually, the McMillen home. He’s missing at least five teeth on that lower left side of his mouth (including his canine), has a notch taken out of his tongue, and a big scar on his nose. But you would never guess that Sully had hard times. He’s happy, curious, and the most playful dog, even though he was labeled ‘dominant’ in the shelter. “At Saving Pups of Texas, we identified a gap in the rescue ecosystem for dogs that were severely abused, neglected, behaviorally challenged, or injured and without shelter or care. We realized our mission was to help these dogs, often ignored by other rescues because of their complex needs, by providing the support and care they require,” Stacey says. “Our origin story is one of determination and unwavering dedication to the cause of the voiceless.” “Members of SPOT carry the torch of change, fueled by the belief that every dog, regardless of their past traumas or conditions, deserves a chance at life filled with love, care, and the warmth of a forever loving home,” she continues. “We’re often the last line of defense for dogs that are hanging onto life by a thread.” Off to the vet with Stacey

To advertise, 832-567-9712

At home with the McMillens

Freedom ride!

The organization welcomes both donations and fosters to help them achieve their goals. “Join us at SPOT as we turn our compassionate visions into realities—one paw, one dog, one loving home at a time,” Stacey says. “A dog’s love is the purest thing you’ll ever know. Become a foster hero. Open your home and save a life.” Saving Pups of Texas (SPOT) SavingPupsofTexas@gmail.com 4771 Sweetwater Blvd., PMB 368 Sugar Land, TX 77479 SavingPupsofTexas.org

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Mark Your Calendar for one of our biggest issues of the year!

An awe-inspiring panorama of 2,000 flags flying in solemn formation to honor Fort Bend’s heroes.

FIELD OF HONOR

Location: University of Houston Sugar Land Campus 13850 University Blvd. (Just look for the flags. You can’t miss them!)

When: Open to the public Nov. 7th through Nov. 13th, day and night

January - Better Health

Get in touch now to be featured in this special issue.

832-567-9712

John@UpCloseMagazine.com 14 ~ UPCLOSE ~ November 2026

Ceremonies: * Nov. 9th, 6:30 p.m. - honoring first responders * Nov. 10th, 6:30 p.m. - honoring hometown and personal heroes * Nov. 11th, 6:30 p.m. - honoring our veterans Presented by the Exchange Club of Sugar Land

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EXCHANGE SUGAR LAND, TEXAS

FIELD OF HONOR

Re-Modelista

The Home Renovation Expert Fort Bend Trusts

Teri recalls gutting the family room and kitchen above to create a beautiful “dream kitchen” and gathering area perfect for holiday celebrations and everyday life.

“The kitchen is the heart of the home,” Teri says. “You can create a gorgeous and comfortable place for everyone to gather around the food being served at your events.”

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.

Make room for all of your guests, even the littlest ones. The Re-Modelista renovated this upstairs attic area to make it a usable bunk room for the visiting grandchildren.

Renovations That Make the Holidays Merrier by Alisha McMillen

ver the years, the Re-Modelista (Teri Gilberg) has renovated many homes, just in time for big, holiday gatherings. She says, “Maximizing your space to accommodate your family and friends is one of the best gifts you can give yourself.” Call the Re-Modelista to make your entertaining dreams come true. Her clients keep calling her back again and again to do more work. “I listen to my clients to help them bring their visions to life … for when they have visiting guests and when it’s just them enjoying their great, new space!” she says. 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

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PAID

DALLAS,TX PERMIT NO 3116

THEY PERSONALIZE MY PRIMARY CARE Your Houston Methodist primary care physician takes the time to get to know you and your unique goals. That’s how we personalize your health care at one of more than 40 clinics throughout the Greater Houston area. And with same-day appointments, you can get the care you need, when you need it. That’s the difference between practicing medicine and leading it. For you.

Same-day appointments available houstonmethodist.org/pcg 713.441.7265

1093 59 Aliana

Brooks Street

99 Sugar Land Sweetwater Rosenberg

6 Riverstone Sienna Sienna Plantation