February 2012 - Fort Bend Focus Magazine - People • Places • Happenings

FEBRUARY 2012

Zoe Lalji: Author, Philanthropist and Fort Bend Fifth Grader page 36

Len & Arlene Rolsen

A Love Story Inside: Seen on the Scene page 26 Things We Love Gift Guide page 58 Living The Sweet Life page 80 $2.95

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID DALLAS, TX PERMIT NO 2337

Sugar Land Wine & Food Affair Formerly The Grand Wine & Food Affair

April 18 - 22, 2012

SugarLandWineAndFoodAffair.com www.facebook.com/sugarlandwineandfoodaffair Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management Producing Partner and Beneficiary

Compounding Corner Pharmacy, Inc. ®

THE ONLY PCAB-ACCREDITED COMPOUNDING PHARMACY IN FORT BEND COUNTY

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Photo by Nesossi Studios

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• EXPERIENCE: All of our compounding staff are highly trained, ACPE-certificate earned and state registered compounding experts, each with years of experience. We are not a teaching pharmacy and do not have students rotating through our pharmacy.

• ACCREDITED: We are the only accredited compounding pharmacy in Fort Bend County.

281-494-7777 • 1730 Williams Trace, Ste. K, Sugar Land www.fortbend

.com • February 2012

1

I chose MD Anderson in Sugar Land - Michelle Williams

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My team of experts in Sugar Land focused only on me and my cancer. They guided me through advanced MD Anderson treatment options including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, clinical trials, and support services. They customized a plan just for me.

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I chose MD Anderson in Sugar Land. Find Your MD Anderson today.

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w w w .D r S h e l . c o m Photo by Alisa Murray Photography

25th Anniversary Sales Event!

Come see our new Design & Drapery Gallery for Savings in Style!

J & L Distributors 707 Avenue E Stafford TX 77477

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M-F: 8:00 - 6:00 Sat:: 10:00 - 5:00 Evenings By Appointment

Save $50 off your next Hunter Douglas purchase of $500 or more! Save another 5% on all custom fabric purchases through February 28, 2012.

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In addition to a variety of blinds, shutters and shades, we have custom draperies and bedding, decorative pillows, fabrics, drapery hardware and more to help you with your design needs.

Come in for YOUR free in-store design consultation.

Michael-james Russo Interior Design Consultant, Window Coverings Specialist

281-403-6733 Ext 305 mjrusso@jlblinds.com 27023

fort bend

magazine • February 2012

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F E B R U A R Y

2 0 1 2

COVER STORY

14 Len and Arlene Rolsen: A Love Story

Faith, trust and a mantra to never give up has resulted in a successful 57-year marriage for this Fort Bend couple.

pg

61 Len and Arlene Rolsen.

42 Focus Interview pg

pg

20

58

FEATURES

Araya Chocolate of Katy brings sweet treats to Fort Bend.

44 Playing and Sharing Music with Others is the Signature of the Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra

Twenty years and two name changes later, the symphony volunteers’ love of music and the community’s support is the driving force of the organization’s continued success.

58 Things We Love: Fort Bend’s Valentine’s Day Gift Guide

20 Romancing Your Décor

Use these simple decorating tips and fall in love with your home all over again!

22 Texana’s West Campus Awarded Prestigious LEED® Green Building Certification

Learn about the green and sustainable strategies implemented at this new facility.

36 Zoe Lalji: Author, Philanthropist and Fort Bend Fifth Grader

Find the perfect gift for that special someone!

61 Valentine’s Day Eats and Treats

Make it a date to remember ... eat something sexy and enjoy some chocolate fondue!

62 Red Carpet Ready: Fort Bend’s Ricky Rico Joins the Cast of Television Show A star is born! Ricky Rico hits prime time in the new CBS show Rob.

76 Persistence Not Perfection

Learn how this talented 11 year-old is making her mark in the community. fort bend

Tips on how to stick with your New Year’s resolution to get in shape!

magazine • February 2012

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CONTRIBUTORS

F E B R U A R Y

2 0 1 2

14

IN EVERY ISSUE

18

10 Publishers Preview

A few words from our publisher.

18 Focus on Finance

Why you should be financially optimistic in 2012.

pg

20

73

24 Focus on Health

Does going gluten free help with weight loss?

26 Seen on the Scene

Photos from charitable events around the Bend.

29 Fort Bend Headliners

The latest news and happenings.

38 Fort Bend New Neighbors Find out who is open for business in Fort Bend.

40 Focus Film Review

Nick Nicholson reviews We Need to Talk About Kevin.

46 Business Buzz

What’s happening in the world of business in Fort Bend.

50 Focus Photo Winners Winning shots by local photographers.

24 70 Community Calendar

Find events the whole family will enjoy.

72 Fort Bend Kids Chalkboard

Special news and achievements from Fort Bend’s youth.

40

73 absolutely Delicious! - NEW From the farm to the table, Ray’s incorporates fresh, local ingredients.

42

78 Focus Favorites Resource Guide

Looking for a service provider?

Find one here!

53

80 Living the Sweet Life

You’re invited – to Alisa’s Birthday Bash!

61

53 Focus Cares

Gail McClendon is recognized for her commitment to Fort Bend’s underprivileged children.

68

54 Focus Scrapbook

A few snapshots of people, places and happenings.

76

63 Medical Focus

Medical news you can use.

68 High School Hot Shot

Meet Theodore Rodriguez: musical master.

ON THE COVER:

Len and Arlene Rolsen.

Photo by Nesossi Studios.

80 fort bend

magazine • February 2012

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Linda K. Eaves Freelance Writer Page 14 Will Hardee Hardee Investment Group Page 18 Sophia Vassiliou Sophia Designs Page 20 Dr. Peter Osborne Town Center Wellness Page 24 Nick Nicholson Entertainment Editor Page 40 Claudia Richter absolutely! Katy Pages 42, 62 & 74 Whitney Hensler Freelance Writer Page 53 Stephenie Cox absolutely! Memorial Page 61 Lauren Dante Freelance Writer Page 68 Jason Hodge Medical Fitness Pros Page 76 Alisa Murray Alisa Murray Photography Page 80

WHY THE BEST TIME T O F I N D A H O S P I TA L I S BEFORE YOU NEED ONE.

You may not need a hospital now, but some day you might. Choosing the right hospital can make the critical difference. St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital is a full service, acute care hospital, delivering quality care in Sugar Land. We offer many of the services you might need, backed by a name you know and trust, and delivered with a special brand of caring, we call Faithful, Loving Care®. Don’t wait until you need us to find us. We’re here for you.

StLukesSugarLand.com

Highway 59 one block north of Highway 6 at Lake Pointe Parkway 1317 Lake Pointe Parkway, Sugar Land, TX 77478 | 281-637-7000

generated at BeQRious.com

P

ublisher’s Preview

www.fortbendfocus.com

February 2012 Vol. 8 No. 4

Hello Fort Bend Friends,

4655 Techniplex Dr. Suite 400 Stafford, TX 77477

February is the month of LOVE.... I love Fort Bend, I love my friends, I love providing our community with the very best monthly magazine out there. What else can I say, I love my life!

To advertise call281-690-4242 TOLL FREE 1-888-430-7469

So when we looked around for a couple to emulate my feelings, we had to choose Len and Arlene Rolsen. They are IN love with one another, as well as loving what they do, their community, and their family and friends. Read this touching cover story on page 14 including the Rolsen’s secrets for a happy marriage.

To help you find that special someone the perfect gift this Valentine’s Day, Fort Bend Focus has put together a special gift guide full of gift ideas found right here in Fort Bend.

Direct mailed to subscribers and high value homes in Sugar Land, Richmond, Katy, Missouri City and Fulshear and picked up at demand distribution locations throughout Fort Bend.

Single copy $2.95

Michael & Lisa Fredrickson.

You’ll also read about fifth grader Zoe Lalji. This young lady loves writing and has written a book for young readers. You can read about this little local author and her first book on page 36.

We hope you love reading this issue of Fort Bend Focus, and we look forward to hearing from you!

Stay Focused!

Publishers Michael Fredrickson Lisa Fredrickson Managing Editor Patti Parish-Kaminski Senior Account Executive Jessica Kij Account Executives Robyn Miller Mary Doetterl Office Manager Norma Loredo

Lisa Fredrickson

Lisa@Fortbendfocus.com Michael@Fortbendfocus.com

READERS FEEDBACK Awesome...

Patti, Thanks for the well done article. I feel very honored that Focus would do it. Thank all your staff for the great way they cover our community.

Linda Hancock Reason to Smile...

The light you shine will warm the hearts of many and give them reason to smile. Your generous gift deserves a multitude of thanks.

Thank you, Fort Bend Focus, for your gift of love!

Fort Bend Junior Service League Happy Reader...

Dear Editor, I enjoy your magazine very much. Everytime I went to pick up my medicine at Ed’s Pharmacy, I would get your magazine. Looking forward to receiving it at home! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Sincerely, Ann Teltschik

Comment on YouTube...

ForeverCrim has made a comment on The Jewels of Fort Bend 2011: Fort Bend Focus Magazine shows why Fort Bend County is a great place to live, work and play! The JEWELS make us sparkle... Thanks to all who contribute to our community in so many ways.

Thankful...

Lisa, thanks for including Missouri City’s Dec. 9 Snowfest in the 12 days of Christmas in your December issue. This is a new time, location and also an expanded event for us and we were nervous about residents and others being aware. The Focus coverage will be a big help.

Barbara Brescian Director of Communications City of Missouri City

“Like” Us Today!

Ticket giveaways to area attractions and events.

Contributors Stephenie Cox Lauren Dante Linda K. Eaves Will Hardee Whitney Hensler Jason Hodge Alisa Murray Nick Nicholson Dr. Pete Osborne Claudia Richter Sophia Vassiliou Art Director Grace Belleza Art & Production Consultant Joey Belleza Graphic Designers Elizabeth Pace Debi Beauregard Web Designer Joey Belleza (JOBpagegraphics.com) Photographers Alisa Murray Photography Nesossi Studios The views and opinions expressed by our advertisers and columnists do not necessarily reflect those of the publishers and their staff.

Facebook.com/FortBendFocus fort bend

magazine • February 2012

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One year subscription: $25

How Do You Pick A Dentist?

Ask These 10 Questions To Make Sure Your Dentist Stacks Up Does your dentist have an intra-oral camera?

Does your dentist still use a drill?

1 Does your dentist check for cavities with a precise laser?

With a painless laser, we can detect cavities 2 earlier than the eye can see them.

The laser scanner can detect new cavities years before any other means of cavity detection.

Does your dentist recommend extractions for crowded teeth?

3 Give your child a full smile for life.

No Extractions-Orthodontics with convenient, no hassle after school appointments as late as 6:30 p.m.

Does your dentist offer before & after work appointments?

6 An intra-oral camera is so small it fits in your mouth and displays your teeth on a 20” TV. The doctor can see your teeth magnified at 50 times!

Low cost way to find out what’s wrong

A $25.00 flat fee for an x-ray & consultation A $74.00 value

Does your dentist have movie goggles for your viewing pleasure?

7

Movie Goggles? Yes, a big screen TV right in front of your eyes while you are getting your dental work done. A movie passes the time quickly and takes you far away from the dental chair.

Does your dentist offer 12 months no interest?

8

We work with our patients to provide easy payment options with no interest. This frees you from using those high interest credit cards.

Call us now!

Before & After work appointments that fit into your jam-packed schedule. Appointments start as early as 7:30 a.m. and as late as 6:30 p.m., and of course, appointments on Saturday.

4

Does your dentist have an internet cafe?

281-206-4482

9

Check your email and surf the net on brand new iMac computers while you enjoy a cup of gourmet coffee.

Does your dentist have digital x-rays?

Instant Images the size of a computer monitor. 5 Remember those old x-rays that were 1” x 2“ ?

Imagine the difference looking at a clear image 16” x 16” with all the software abilities that go along with computers. We can magnify a suspicious area and basically see inside the tooth. An added benefit for you is 1/10 the radiation needed.

Does your dentist have a movie theater?

10

No Kidding! What could be more fun than waiting in a 10 chair movie theater? If you don’t feel like checking your email at the internet cafe, come into the theater and recline and relax. This is not like the dentist when you were a kid!

Coming soon in our new facility.

(formerly Cashion & Cody) Family Dentistry and Orthodontics

17003 SW Freeway, Suite 100, Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-206-4482

www.cashionandcodyonline.com www.cashionandcodyorthodontics.com

TEXAS DIRECT AUTO

DIAMOND SPONSOR FOR THE FORT BEND JUNIOR SERVICE LEAGUE CHARITY BALL 2012

T

exas Direct Auto, the nation’s largest independent car dealership located in Fort Bend County, is supporting this year’s Fort Bend Junior Service League’s (FBJSL) Charity Ball and Casino “Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend.” The event is scheduled for Saturday, March 3, 2012, at the Sugar Land Marriott Town Square. Guests will experience “a night at the diamond.”

This elegant gala will be an unforgettable evening enhanced by a sumptuous dinner, sensational music and dancing, casino games, a fabulous live auction, as well as a bid board and silent auction.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Lunches of Love and the FBJSL Community Assistance Fund. Debbie Buckner, Co-Chair of the Ball stated, “We are excited to have Texas Direct Auto as a Diamond Sponsor of the 2012 FBJSL Charity Ball ‘Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend.’ Their generous support, along with that of presenting sponsor Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital and numerous others in the community, will help Lunches of Love continue to provide meals to children in need in the Richmond/Rosenberg area and will enable the organization to increase the number of children they are able to feed.”

Lunches of Love, a community outreach program of First United Methodist Church Rosenberg, is committed to helping end childhood hunger in Rosenberg and Richmond by providing a free nutritious sack lunch Monday thru Friday during extended school holidays, including Christmas break, spring break and summer.

Lunches of Love feeds children in need and those qualifying for the state’s free or reduced lunch program. Many children living in families facing food insecurity rely on school lunch as their only meal of the day; without Lunches of Love, these children would go hungry when school is not in session. Lunches of Love was launched during Christmas break 2009 and has quickly expanded

during that time, growing from initially feeding approximately 150 children each day to serving approximately 1,100 children each day during summer 2011. Funds from the Charity Ball will be utilized to sustain their current program as well as expand their program to reach even more children. For more information about Lunches of Love, visit www.lunchesoflove.net.

Fort Bend Junior Service League

Charity Ball Diamonds are

a Girl’s Best Friend 2012

Come experience the glamour and glitter of the Fort Bend Junior Service League 2012 Charity Ball and Casino “Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend.” Purchase your tickets now and help provide nutritious lunches for these children! For your convenience, you may order tickets online at www.fbjsl.com.

A variety of sponsorship and underwriting opportunities are available from $500 and up. For more information on sponsorship opportunities, to become a sponsor, or to purchase tickets, please visit www.fbjsl.com or contact Charity Ball CoChairs Mandy Boudreaux, Debbie Buckner, Jessica DeMarr or Audra O’Neal at charityball@fbjsl.com.

Presenting sponsor, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, has led the way for a growing number of individuals and businesses eager to join the team. Top sponsors include Texas Direct Auto, Ameriprise Financial Services, Shayne & David Newell, and Sweetwater Radiology.

SELL US YOUR CAR There’s an easier way to sell your car.

WE PAY MORE. WE PAY TODAY. Fast. Easy. Fun. Yes! It’s true.

12053 SW Freeway, Stafford Texas 77477 • 281-499-8200

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SPRING 2012 DROUGHT RE-DESIGN Allow Todd Farber, owner of Garden Guy, Inc. to re-design and install a well-planned, water-smart landscape, with a variety of height, texture and color — Texas native plants that will withstand the heat and GROW more beautiful with time.

• Celebrating 20 years in Landscape Design & Installation • Garden Guy guarantees all plants for one full year • B.S. in Horticulture from Texas A&M, 1991 Sabrina & Todd Farber

• 10-year FIRST COLONY RESIDENT

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Contact Us 281• 208 • 4400 www.garden-guy.com

COVER STORY

By Linda K. Eaves Photo by Nesossi Studios

Len & Arlene Rolsen

A Love Story I

n an age when some marriages last only few days, Len and Arlene Rolsen could give young couples a few lessons for a happy one. Both were born in Cincinnati, Ohio and were married there on September 11, 1954. They credit their successful 57-year marriage to love, trust and sticking together through good times and bad. “God is the center of our marriage,” said Arlene. “Len is the wind beneath my wings. He is my lover, friend and confidante.” fort bend

magazine • February 2012

14

The Rolsen clan: First row Karlen, Kaylen, black poodle Teddy and white poodle Tucker.

2nd row Len, Arlene, Kennan, Nancy, Ken Rolsen and Karen (Rolsen) Midlo.

“Arlene is my center point,” said Len. His words of advice: “Stick with it – don’t give up, and learn to give and take.”

The gregarious Arlene complements Len’s quiet strength and gentleness evident in his acts of kindness when welcoming people into their home. Arlene is a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker United in Sugar Land. After 45 years of service, Len retired as CFO from Viceroy, a wholly owned subsidiary of General Electric Company.

In the fall of 1953, they met at a dance held at Len’s college, Xavier University, during which Arlene was elected homecoming queen. Len left the dance alone because of all the hoopla of her being selected and photographed.

They laughed at that shared memory.

They met again in January 1954. “I saw him, once again at a dance, from across the room. His eyes, his kind smile and gentleness made him stand out from the crowd, and it still does,” she said.

Humble Beginnings Although they live in an upscale neighborhood, they were not born with a silver spoon in their mouths. Len worked long hours. “It was the way we were brought up.” said Len. “Do the best job you can. When you gave your word, you followed through.”

“Life was not always a bed of roses.

Len taught me early on that sometimes we had to do what was called FHB –

family hold back. That meant we were low on money, and I had to learn how to make ends meet until the next paycheck.

When we were first married, we lived in an apartment. To afford the rent, Len took out the trash and mowed the lawn.

We learned early on never to go to bed upset with each other and that a good night kiss was something we both looked forward to, and still do.”

“We bought our first home for $14,500 in Mason, Ohio. Soon after, Len’s mom moved in with us, and I learned how to make Len’s favorite dishes,” said Arlene.

“She was a great joy and shared so many wonderful stories about Len when he was a ‘perfect little boy.’” Over the next years while working full time, Len received his bachelor and master degrees from Xavier University.

The Rolsens had wanted to start a family right away, but son Ken arrived five years later in 1959 followed by daughter Karen in 1961.

Len received a wonderful job opportunity, and the family moved to Avon, Connecticut. “We loved our time in the East. Ken learned to ski there, a sport he still enjoys. When we first moved to Connecticut, we did not know anyone.

The people seemed aloof, but when Len’s mom passed away, folks came to provide food and offers of help for our family.”

Len also spent some time working for GE in Singapore and helped start a plant in that country. www.fortbend

.com • February 2012

15

Once again, Len’s job offered the family an opportunity to “bloom where they were planted,” (one of Arlene’s favorite sayings) and they moved back to Ohio, this time to Brecksville, a town close to Cleveland. There, Arlene began her career in real estate. “It’s never been a job. It’s always been a joy, one I would like to continue doing until the magic is gone.”

After many wonderful years in Ohio, in 1984, after the marriages of both children, Len and Arlene had the opportunity to begin a new life in Sugar Land, Texas. Arlene’s father, Elmer Koch, came to Texas with them and was part of their lives until his death at 103. “He was such a joy and had such a positive attitude, never seeing anything half empty, always half full. Len was so good to my dad, watching football and talking politics with him and always making him feel so special. My love for Len grew even more as I watched the way he cared for my dad,” said Arlene.

Faith and Family Arlene and Len are members of St. Laurence Catholic Church. “Our faith has been what has really kept us together.

The prayer that has helped me the most is a simple one – Jesus, I trust in You. We always start each meal with a prayer, and that’s when we pray for our family and friends. When we attend Mass and take Communion, we stand side by side.

Being next to Len at this time gives me a wonderful feeling of togetherness.”

“As members of St. Laurence, we enjoy doing a Communion Service for the seniors at Greatwood Retirement Residence. It is such a joy to be with these wonderful seniors, I sometimes forget we are seniors also,” laughed Arlene.

For their 50th wedding anniversary, the couple renewed their wedding vows.

A priest friend of theirs, Father Richard Gonser, requested and the couple received an Apostolic Blessing from his Holiness Pope John Paul II. A copy of the Blessing hangs proudly in the couple’s home.

“Through the years, Len has always been there for me. He’s always been extremely supportive in anything I’ve wanted to do. He doesn’t say a lot, but when he speaks, we all listen. Much more

so than with me,” she said with a laugh.

“To this day it’s important that he sign all the holiday cards for the family.”

“We really didn’t do much traveling when were younger,” shared Arlene, “but when we moved to Texas, we began traveling with friends and have so enjoyed seeing much of the world. Our most favorite places were a beautiful sunset in Tuscany and a sandy beach at sunrise in Tortula.”

Impact a Hero

Len and Arlene’s Secrets for a Happy Marriage God is the center of our marriage.

Learn to give and take.

Never go to bed mad.

Kiss each other goodnight.

Stick with it.

Bloom where you’re planted.

An organization that is close to the Rolsen’s hearts is Impact A Hero which provides emotional and financial support for our most severely wounded and disabled heroes and their families.

After learning about the group from Jim Hoelker, the Rolsens wanted to do something to thank these heroes.

“For years, we have had a Christmas party as a way of thanking all the wonderful friends, clients and folks we have come to know since moving here to Texas. We decided to ask the guests if they wanted to donate gift cards, checks, clothes or toys to help make the heroes’ holidays a little brighter. Over the few years we have been doing this, our friends have been so responsive to our appeal that each year the donations have grown. We had the best year ever having collected $15,000 in checks and gift cards this past year.”

Arlene always wears a red, white and blue wrist band with Impact A Hero printed on it on her left arm.

“When people ask what it’s for, it allows me a chance to make them aware of Impact A Hero,” she said.

The Golden Years Arlene and Len have six grandchildren – twins Courtney and Kristen Lundgren who are grown and living in Katy, and SPC. John K. Lundgren who has returned from duty in Afghanistan and is now stationed at Fort Drum, New York. Kennan, Karlen, and Kaylen Rolsen live in Ohio. “We so enjoy being with our grandkids and look forward to our times together.”

The couple enjoys eating out with friends, playing cards, reading, traveling and hanging out with their adopted rescue poodle, Mickey.

Arlene volunteers with several other organizations -- Mamie George Foundation, Child Advocates, Achieve Fort Bend, Women’s Council of Realtors, Exchange Club of Sugar Land, and Theresians International.

“We have been blessed with so many good friends since we moved here, and we plan on spending our remaining years, God willing, as residents of Fort Bend County.” H FBF

IMPACT A HERO

I

magine waking up every day without one or more of your limbs, with severe burns or even being paralyzed. For hundreds of War on Terror wounded veterans, these new physical realities will be with them for the rest of their lives.

Impact A Hero is a non-partisan 501(c) (3) organization created to provide a simple mechanism for individuals and corporations to help provide emotional and financial support for our severely wounded/ disabled War on Terror veterans and their families. Donations are taxdeductible.

Severely wounded and disabled War on Terror veterans have special challenges every day. They must adjust to their new circumstances, and they need our help. Emotionally, our wounded heroes need to know that every American appreciates the sacrifices they have made. Financially, our wounded heroes deserve every American’s support to help pay for every day living expenses, not to mention their new special needs such as retrofitting a house for a wheelchair.

Programs include Impact A Hero Day at sporting and entertainment venues, Impact A Hero Emergency Financial Aid and Impact A Hero Mentoring.

To learn more, please visit www.impactahero.com. H fort bend

magazine • February 2012

16

Rolsen grandchildren Courtney and Kristen Lundgren with PFC John K. Lundgren III.

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12/19/11 1:34 PM

on

Finance

Provided by the Hardee Investment Group and RBC Wealth Management

2011- The Year that Wasn’t

R

ip Van Winkle would have been proud of this past year.

For the year, the S&P 500 basically ended unchanged. Sounds kind of boring. It was anything but sleepy. After being up over 8% through April, it proceeded to drop greater than 19% by October, only to recover unchanged by year end.

This is a microcosm of a bigger picture, which basically has the stock market unchanged since 1998 leaving investors running in quicksand and wondering what to do.

Hope Springs Eternal January ushers in new hope and views for the coming year. New money flows for 401(k)s, pensions and bonuses search for new investments. Money managers start anew and aggressively invest hoping to outperform their benchmarks in January. If they do so, they can effectively index their benchmarks, take the next 11 months off and still collect their bonuses.

Here are four reasons to be optimistic for 2012:

1. Re-birth of the “Rust Belt”This is the best kept secret is the reindustrialization of the United States. Michigan 2012 is no longer your father’s Buick.

2. Oil and Gas - For the first time in 62 years, the U.S. was a net exporter of petroleum products.

Additionally, we are now producing more oil than we have in the last decade. We may ultimately become a net exporter of natural gas. This is very good for American business, particularly the “Rust Belt.”

3. Jobs - If my first two points happen, jobs will follow. These jobs pay very well.

4. If all the above take place, that means more tax dollars and less unemployment payments.

More productive people make for a better country.

I mention these four trends not because I’m overly optimistic or naïve. I’m not. I’m a seasoned, crusty 37-year investment veteran.

During this time, I’ve observed big money is made by identifying

long-term trends and sticking with them. With all the pessimism surrounding us today, it may very well pay to start “waking up” and looking forward to tomorrow.

The New Year brings plans to get in shape. Do you want to shape up your financial future? Call us today at 713-853-0879 or visit us online at www.HardeeInvestmentGroup. com to learn more about how we can help you become financially fit.

This article is provided by H. H. Will Hardee, AWM, a Financial Advisor at RBC Wealth Management’s Houston Center office, and was prepared by or in cooperation with RBC Wealth Management.

The information included in this article is not intended to be used as the primary basis for making investment decisions nor should it be construed as a recommendation to buy or sell any specific security.

RBC Wealth Management does not endorse this organization or publication.

Consult your investment professional for additional information and guidance.

RBC Wealth Management does not provide tax or legal advice.

RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets LLC, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC. H

Do you want...? a Financial Advisor who knows your situation and investment preferences? a single contact with global resources? a trusted advisor whose focus is on minimizing your investments risk?

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Advertorial

fort bend

magazine • February 2012

18

The MOST Complete

ORTHOPEDIC CARE for FORT BEND COUNTY Kenneth M. Renney, M.D.

Sports Medicine

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from sports medicine to joint replacement, hand and wrist to ankle and spine care. They perform on a higher level, so you can, too.

To schedule an appointment, call 281-494-MOST (6678) or email MOSTappts@tmhs.org.

Make an appointment on our website by using your smartphone QR reader.

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By Sophia Vassiliou

Romancing Your Décor

Whether Valentine’s or any day, what better time to be inspired by reds, whites, and pinks? You can’t find colors much more symbolic of love than those!

Sure, you can do a red pillow here or a pink throw there, but why not go all out and wallpaper a focal wall with a vibrant pattern, paint your walls a striking red, or cover a chair in pink or white fabric? After all, this is the holiday of love and romance, so why not fall in love all over again with your home?

Make a Love Wreath

Gather, wrap, and wire – it’s as simple as that. Look for heart shaped grapevine wreaths at craft stores. Using real or faux berries, cut in six to eight-inch lengths, and bind several short bunches together with Flora tape. Secure the berries to the front of the wreath by wrapping with wire or stick bunches in front of the grapevine wreath. Berries are at their peak now, so welcome your guests with a bright wreath made with love.

Ange Arm Chair

It doesn’t have to be a romantic day to enjoy a great chair. Add a little bit of art and romance to any room or patio with Fermob’s Ange Chair. The seat reads: “Nose to nose, face to face, mouth to mouth, heart to heart” in French. Choose from all 20 Fermob colors. A great gift for someone special, and a fantastic focal chair for indoors or out. Find them at Fermob USA through gardencentersofatlanta.com or fermobusa.com.

Set the Scene for Romance Try a “Pouf”

One piece of furniture and a pouf – you have changed the look of a room. Design your own romantic pouf using the texture, style and color you desire. Etsy.com offers choices of styles, fabrics, and sizes for this new look in any room. A pouf can also serve as an ottoman, footstool, child’s seat, floor pillow, side table, meditation chair, or just a fun piece of extra seating. That’s what makes a pouf so wonderful - they are multi-functional furniture.

Need a little inspiration for your table setting? Use any great piece of porcelain, crystal, or glass to float one simple flower from the garden or your florist for each place or for the table’s centerpiece. Make it your own creation. Cut out all sizes of hearts from old cards or patterned paper and scatter on the table. Simple white plates work with bold color napkins. Use red or pink candles of any size for added color and voila! – hearts and flowers with a new twist.

Seeing Red

This is a great time to visit pinks and reds, which are synonymous with fun and warmth. A great wallpaper pattern, red shade, or pink door are classics all year long. Accessories in vibrant reds are ravishing!

For more decorating tips, visit Sophia at www.sophiadesigns.com. fort bend

magazine • February 2012

20

Show her your love with our featured Valentine Lagos bracelet Heritage Baptist Church a place to call home

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Schedule of Services SUNDAY Sunday School.................. 9:30am Sunday AM Worship...... 10:45am Bible Classes.................... 6:05 pm Sunday PM Worship...... 7:00 pm

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4840 Sweetwater Blvd, Suite B (at rear), Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-265-1561 www.andreasonlawfirm.com

26 years experience in Texas www.fortbend

.com • February 2012

21

Texana’s West Campus Awarded

Prestigious LEED® Green Building Certification

T

exana Center’s West Campus has been awarded LEED® Silver established by the U.S. Green Building Council and verified by the Green Building Certification Institute.

The U.S. Green Building Council's LEED green building certification system is the foremost program for the design, construction and operation of green buildings.

This is the first LEED Certified project in west Fort Bend County and encompasses two buildings; a Service Center for Texana staff and Learning Center for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and green space between the two buildings.

Texana Center achieved LEED certification for energy use, lighting, water and material use as well as incorporating a variety of other sustainable strategies.

By using less energy and water, LEED certified building save money for families, businesses and taxpayers; reduce greenhouse gas emissions; and contribute to a healthier environment for residents, workers and the larger community.

George Patterson, Texana C.E.O. said, “As careful stewards of public funds, we believe that our stewardship should extend not only to the people we serve but to the community at large.

Constructing ‘green’ buildings is not only environmentally friendly, but it will save money in utility and maintenance costs that can then be used to enhance patient services.”

“The green building movement offers an unprecedented opportunity to respond to the most-important challenges of our time, including global climate change, dependence on nonsustainable and expensive sources of energy and threats to human health,” said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO & Founding Chair, U.S. Green Building Council. “The work of innovative building projects such as Texana Center’s West Campus is a fundamental driving force in the green building movement.”

If you would like to visit the Texana West Campus, please contact Andi Wallis at 281.239.1427. H fort bend

magazine • February 2012

22

LEED certification of Texana’s West Campus was based on a number of green design and construction features that positively impact the project itself and the broader community. Some of these features include: • Light reflective paving which helps to reduce heat island effect.

• Interior lights are set up on timers, photo cells and occupancy sensors.

• Water-efficient planting and drip irrigation system.

• Low flow faucets.

• Recycled building materials.

• Reflective roof materials to prevent absorption of excessive heat.

• No CFCs (ozone-depleting chemicals) were used in refrigerants.

• High efficiency mechanical systems to achieve a 28% reduction in energy costs.

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23

on

Health

By Dr. Peter Osborne

Gluten Free Diets – Do They Help With Weight Loss?

M

any people today are going on gluten free diets. You can find extensive gluten free sections in Kroger, HEB, and Whole Foods. Gluten has been in the national spot light receiving recognition on Discovery Health, CNN’s Larry King, Oprah, and more.

So What is Gluten?

Gluten is a protein found in the following grains: wheat, barley, rye, and oats. It is also found in processed foods derived from wheat, barley, rye, and oats.

Breads, cereals, and pastas are rich in gluten. Other foods and/or food additives can be derived from gluten containing grains. Examples include soy sauce, gravies, soups, whiskey, and modified food starch. Traditional medical thought is that the protein gluten interacts with some people’s immune systems causing an autoimmune reaction which damages the intestine. However, newer research is identifying that the protein gluten is only part of the problem. Some scientists argue that many grains (including corn) can create similar reactions.

So what is gluten sensitivity?

It depends on who you ask. Many people use the term gluten sensitivity interchangeably with celiac disease (an autoimmune intestinal disorder). Some call gluten sensitivity a food allergy or intolerance. Both are correct to some degree.

Gluten sensitivity causes celiac disease, but not all people with gluten sensitivity develop celiac disease. This is where the problem in traditional diagnosis can

occur. The only way to confirm whether or not a person has celiac disease is to perform an intestinal biopsy. If the results reveal villous atrophy (flattening of the intestinal folds) then celiac disease is diagnosed. If the results are negative, then both celiac disease and gluten sensitivity may be dismissed. Newer research is finding that gluten sensitivity exists independently without causing celiac disease. There are more than 190 different disease conditions, syndromes, and symptoms that have been linked to gluten sensitivity in scientific studies.

Some common conditions include thyroid disorders, seizure disorders, migraine, bone loss, and irritable bowel syndrome.

Diagnosing Gluten Sensitivity & Celiac Disease The proper tools must be used to accurately diagnose gluten sensitivity. Relying solely on a biopsy can delay a diagnosis for several years. I have personally seen cases of celiac disease where up to 8 biopsies were performed before a diagnosis was made. Genetic testing offers the greatest degree of accuracy and when combined with a patient’s history and examination a diagnosis can be made early and accurately. However, the greatest tool is patient improvement. If a person starts to feel better on a gluten free diet, it doesn’t matter what blood tests or biopsies reveal. The proverbial proof is in the pudding.

Gluten Free Diet for Weight Loss The gluten free diet is being used by

thousands as a weight loss aid. Unfortunately, many in the medical profession are falsely proclaiming that gluten free diets for weight loss are dangerous and can lead to nutrition deficits. All untrue.

A gluten free diet can be very helpful for weight loss. Think about it. If we want to fatten up cows, pigs, chickens, or other farm animals, what do we feed them? GRAIN. Look at the obesity trend in the U.S. It is most definitely on the rise. This increase parallels an increase in grain based foods in being used as staple foods in the U.S. Diet.

A common day of eating for most Americans is grain loaded: Breakfast – Cereal (with milk from animals fed grain), bagels, toast, donuts, granola bars, etc.

Lunch & Dinner – Sandwich, pizza, spaghetti or pasta, rolls, rice, and corn.

Desert – Cake, cookies, ice cream (from cows fed grain based diets).

Are you fat or overweight?

Excessive grain causes obesity in animals and in humans. Excessive grain causes inflammation and contributes to a host of different chronic degenerative diseases. Do you fit these categories?

If so, it is time to look at gluten as a potential culprit. All that being said, can a gluten free diet be used to lose weight?

Absolutely!

Gluten Free Expo is Coming…

Want to learn more about gluten?

Join us on Feb. 14th for the Glutenology Houston Gluten Free Expo. We will have experts in gluten sensitivity, food, cooking lessons and much more. For more information on tickets, go to www.

HoustonGlutenFreeExpo.com. You can also visit www.GlutenFreeSociety.org to learn more. H

DID YOU KNOW?

You have one of the country’s most advanced alternative medicine clinics right here in Sugar Land n Dr. Osborne

• Is a Diplomate and the Executive Secretary of the American Clinical Board of Nutrition • Is the only Board Certified Nutritionist in Sugar Land • Is a member of the ACA Council on Nutrition • Has held teaching appointments at Texas Women’s University and HCC’s nursing program • Lectures nationally to other physicians on the topic: Drug Induced Nutritional Deficiencies

n Town Center Wellness:

Dr. Peter Osborne

• Offers genetic testing to match your lifestyle and diet to your genes • Offers complete laboratory nutritional analysis to identify vitamin and mineral deficiencies • Offers traditional and specialty lab services to assist in patient diagnosis • Offers state of the art Spinal Decompression therapy to prevent back surgery • Offers genetic and laboratory testing to identify gluten sensitivity • Offers chiropractic care

4724 Sweetwater Blvd. Suite 102, Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-240-2229 • www.TownCenterWellness.com Advertorial

fort bend

magazine • February 2012

24

Meet Our New Window Treatment Expert MARLYS PARKER • 20 years experience providing custom window treatment solutions in Houston

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Coming in the March Issue Special Advertising Section

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www.fortbend

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Seen

on the

Scene

Go to www.FortBendFocus.com

Grand Opening Churrascos Sugar Land

Benefiting Casa de Esperanza Sunday, November 27, 2011 • Churrascos, Sugar Land

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Neil Banfield, Marilyn Glover, Chris Beaux & Carolyn Banfield

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Check out our full collection of photos at www.FortBendFocus.com and get your photo made into a wonderful souvenir to commemorate the event.

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Seen

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Winter Wonderland Gala

Benefiting Richmond State School Friday, December 3, 2011 • Safari Texas Ranch

Cindy Jones & Jean Scott

Susan & Brent Broussard

Mike & Barbra Trotter and Barbara & Gilbert Fitzgerrell

Pam Smith & Gloria Henrichsen

Tim & Claire Weatherby

Janice VanPelt & Ninfa Vasquez

Doris Gurecky, Tracey Shaw, Jacquie Chaumette, & Diane Wilson

Jeff & Ann Council with David Davis

Aarti & Raj Narsinghani

Janice & Paul Knight

Jody & David Noirit

Kevin Kimball, Kim Deerman, Alicia Deerman, Kevin Deerman, Cassey Schmid, Mark & Tracey Schmid and Judy & Mike Schmid

Sonny & Rashmi Sharma

Pankaj K. Shah, David Cross, Artie Dmello, Susan & Randy Briones, & David Choa.

Check out our full collection of photos at www.FortBendFocus.com and get your photo made into a wonderful souvenir to commemorate the event.

FORT BEND

HEADLINERS Send your news via www.FortBendFocus.com.

Deadline for submission is on or before the 10th of the month for the next month’s publication.

All submissions are subject to the publisher’s approval, editing and space availability.

Specialist in dentistry for children from 6 months to 17 years of age

Rose-Rich Helping Hands’ Hearts and Hands Gala

Friendly, gentle and caring staff Offering Oral and I.V. Sedation

Join an evening of fun, music and dining at Safari Texas in Richmond. Helping Hands’ fundraiser of the year will be held on Saturday, March 3, 2012, beginning at 6:00 PM. The Gala will feature a sit down dinner and dance, silent auction, live auction and raffle. Funds from this event are used to supplement the food and clothing donations received from the community.

Returning as Mistress of Ceremonies will be Miss Laura Reynolds of KILT radio. Music will be provided by Ken Mondshind and Brotherhood. Judge Jim Richards will serve as auctioneer. Tickets are $75 per person or $750 per table of ten.

Sponsorships are available and include priority seating and program acknowledgement. Chair persons are Donna Hyde and Karen Davenport. For more information, call 281.232.4904, e-mail hhfoodnb@comcast.net, or visit www. roserichhelpinghands.org.

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Family & Friends

Don’t miss Fort Bend Theatre’s performance of the hilariously outrageous production Nunsense at 2815 Main Street, Stafford, January 27 – February 5, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm and Sundays at 3 pm. Sister Julia, Child of God, has accidently poisoned the fifty-two bingo-playing nuns that help run a leper colony on an island south of France. With no funds for the burials, five of the nineteen surviving nuns must find a way to overcome this disaster. What follows is a sidesplitting story that will have you begging for more! Tickets are $12 for children, $14 for students and seniors and $15 for adults. Visit www.fortbendtheatre.com or call 281-208-3333.

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on the

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Holiday V.I.P. Party

Celebrating 2011 CASA Christmas Home Tour Sponsors Sunday December 4, 2011 • Home of Mark & Laura Millis

Lisa Moore, Anne Bulan & Aly Tomasello

Laura & Claude Leatherwood

Tracey Shaw, Betty Baitland & Sue Lockwood

Tom & Kimberly Noble

Jim Shaw & Ruthanne Mefford

Laura & Mark Millis

Joan Soland & Pam Collins

Cari & Scott Middaugh

Albert & Marilyn Glover

Pete & Sharon Medford

Diana & John Null with Tracy Pipes

Pete & Nancy Olson

Kim & Sam Cress with Patty Greene

Kelly & Russ Buettner

Gayle Culak & Jim McClellan

Janice & Pat King

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Headliners continued from page 29

Vangellow Recognized as U.S. Kids Golf Top 50 Kids Teacher Deb Vangellow of Sugar Land is among the class of the Top 50 Kids Teachers for 2011, as announced by U.S. Kids Golf.

Vangellow has been a junior golf instructor for 22 years and is currently an LPGA Master Professional at Sweetwater Country Club, where she has been for 17 years. This is the third time that she has been named a Top 50 Kids Teacher by U.S. Kids Golf.

“I am so pleased to be listed among such fine junior golf leaders across the country and am grateful to U.S. Kids Golf not only for the recognition, but for the longtime relationship with a terrific product line,” Vangellow said. “I feel fortunate to do what I do every day, and junior golfers continue to inspire me and remind me of this daily.”

The award, in its eighth year, recognizes golf professionals across North America who focus much of their time and energy on developing young golfers in their communities. The instructors are judged on several criteria, including percentage of time devoted to kids programs, creativity, communication and efforts to grow the game.

“The Top 50 Kids Teachers represent a group of professionals who are dedicated to helping kids develop their skills and their love of the game,” said Dan Van Horn, founder and president of U.S. Kids Golf. “We are pleased to recognize their talents and commitment.”

The 2011 Top 50 Kids Teachers were recognized Friday, January 27, at the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando.

EYE TRENDS @ Town Square The Address for Exclusive Eyewear

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281-265-2000 | www.drzaibaq.com 16200 City Walk, Sugar Land, Texas 77479 We accept most medical & vision insurances

Headliners continued on page 35 www.fortbend

.com • February 2012

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absolutely! focus media’s

Focus on the Holidays Party Wednesday, December 21, 2011 • The Imperial Theater

Grace Belleza, Liz Pace, Patti Parish-Kaminski & Debi Beauregard

Susie & John Ainsworth

Michael Fredrickson, Nancy & Pete Olson with Lisa Fredrickson

Edward Crowell & Timothy Boaz

Delfino & Norma Loredo

Brent Milam & Lara Bell

Matthew & Jennifer Babisak

Jessica & Jim Kij

Robyn Miller & Jacquie Chaumette

Kristen Kij & Mark Hendricks

Michael Epps & Sarah Ware

Claudia & Pete Richter

May & Lindsey Tape

Taryn Budd, Laura Davis, Dario Beistegui & Sarah Hepler

Check out our full collection of photos at www.FortBendFocus.com and get your photo made into a wonderful souvenir to commemorate the event.

Allison, Allen & Sharon Hilburn

Maureen & Chuck Fredrickson

Scott & Terri Bieber

MedCare Milestones invites you to their second annual

Spring Bling

Jessica & Jason Hodge

Saturday, March 24, 2012 | 4 pm – 10 pm Faith Lutheran, 800 Brooks Street, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Bring all your girlfriends to the ultimate girl’s night in!

Come prepared to get pampered for a cause and shop for clothes, jewelry and home décor.

Jennifer Elliott & Mary Doetterl

60 Per Ticket Includes Food, 2 Indulgences and Bling Raffle Ticket $

Prize for Best Bling Ensemble Additional indulgences and drinks can be purchased for a minimal cost.

All proceeds to benefit MedCare Milestones, directly aiding children in need locally & around the world.

Purchase tickets by calling 713-773-5123 or visit www.medcaremilestones.org.

Grace & Joey Belleza www.fortbend

.com • February 2012

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Seen

on the

Scene

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The Founders Ball

Benefiting Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation Saturday, January 7, 2012 • Safari Texas Ranch

Jackie & Don Kerstetter

Subodh & Sonal Bhuchar

Tracee & Jeff Tallas

Pete & Nancy Olson

Steve & Kelli Metzinthin

Jessica Kij & Robyn Miller

Don & Merle Smithers

Jacquie Chaumette & Nell Ciancarelli

Jack & Donna Molho

Himesh & Farrah Gandhi

Jamie & Russell Hill

Lisa Cox & Jim Browne

Ike & Zeenat Mitha

Dick & Pat Hogan

Linda Topp & Bridgit Yeung

Steve & Keron Weathered

Andrew Blair & Ann Finley

Dana & Jackie Atkinson

Keith & Stacy Borgfeldt

Donna & Jeff Hine

Check out our full collection of photos at www.FortBendFocus.com and get your photo made into a wonderful souvenir to commemorate the event.

Headliners continued from page 31

THINKING ABOUT QUITTING? LIGHT THIS UP INSTEAD.

Josh Pressley

Atlantic League MVP Josh Pressley Named Skeeters First Player The Sugar Land Skeeters have announced that they have signed former Atlantic League MVP Josh Pressley as the organization’s first player. Pressley comes to the Skeeters from the Five-Time Atlantic League Champion Somerset Patriots.

“We’re excited to have a player of Pressley’s caliber,” said Gary Gaetti, Manager of the Sugar Land Skeeters. “Josh with his experience and leadership is the kind of guy that we are looking to build our organization around. He brings a strong bat to the middle of our lineup, which we’re glad to have.”

Pressley, a designated hitter and first baseman, comes to the Skeeters with career stats in the Atlantic League of .308 batting average, 310 runs scored, 594 hits, 121 doubles, 96 home runs and 378 RBIs in 545 games played from 2007 through 2011. He is a five-time Atlantic League All-Star.

Pressley, who has family in the nearby Houston community The Woodlands, wanted the opportunity to play the 2012 season with family in the crowd.

“Playing in Sugar Land will provide me a chance to spend time with family while also enabling them to be a part of my journey as a professional player,” said Pressley. “To be part of organization like the Skeeters is something that I am excited about.”

For more information, visit www.

SugarLandSkeeters.com.

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Headliners continued on page 39 www.fortbend

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Zoe Lalji: Author, Philanthropist and Fort Bend Fifth Grader

Z

oe Lalji is a very talented 11 year-old girl who has the distinct title of being one of the youngest authors in Fort Bend – a distinction that makes Fort Bend proud to have such an amazing, gifted young lady live in our community.

Zoe has attended The Honor Roll School since first grade and is currently in the fifth grade. Zoe is a Greek name that means “life.” When you meet Zoe, you will see why this name is perfect for her. Zoe carries in her heart, her mind and her spirit, the “Essence of Life.” Zoe’s proud parents, Drs. Ayeez and Shelena Lalji, said, “Zoe has had a love for writing since she was 5. She began writing songs and short stories at that age, and we just kept encouraging her to keep it up.” Both her parents are doctors in Fort Bend and are very strong supporters of the community.

Zoe began writing her recently published book called Zoe’s Adventures: The Chamber of Life about a year ago.

“It started with just my love for writing, and before I knew it, it developed into a book and got published.” Zoe is very excited about her first book, and she has already begun working on the outline for the second one. “I want this to be a series that young readers like myself really enjoy and learn from.” Her series will fort bend

all be about her character “Zoe” who is a 10 year-old imaginative girl who is constantly on a quest for adventure and helping others. In this book, she stumbles upon a mysterious chamber with ten doors and off she goes on an adventure to exotic places such as Egypt, Africa, India and many more. She even goes back in time and meets Martin Luther King, Jr. Her journey is filled with life lessons and amazing stories. Children her age will be immersed in this book and enter a magical and mysterious adventure they won’t forget.

Zoe strongly believes in helping others– her fellow students, her school and her community. She is currently on Student Council at The Honor Roll School, has received the Citizenship Award along with medals for art competitions, and is a volunteer in her church. She has also been a part of community service and the green team at school. She hopes to create a unique kids’ organization (hopefully nationwide) where youngsters take leadership roles in ensuring education for underprivileged children around the world. With that in mind, Zoe has decided to donate 100% of her profits from her first book signing to two charities. The first charity is The Aga Khan Foundation (www.AKDN.org) which works with underprivileged people around the world in the areas of health, education, rural development and civil society. The second

magazine • February 2012

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Meet Zoe Lalji Author of Zoe’s Adventures: The Chamber of Life

“I want this to be a series that young readers like myself really enjoy and learn from.”

Zoe Lalji will be signing her first book, Zoe’s Adventures: The Chamber of Life, at The Honor Roll School (THRS) Book Fair on Tuesday, March 6th from 12:15 to 1:15 and 2:00 to 3:00 and Wednesday, March 7th from 12:15 to 1:15 and 2:00 to 3:00. The Book Fair will be held in THRS gymnasium.

Please come and bring your children to support Zoe so they too can be inspired and be great readers! For more information about Zoe Lalji or her book, visit www.zoe4life.com.

- Zoe Lalji

charity is CASA (www.casaforchildren. org) which helps abused children right here in Fort Bend. “I have always wanted to make a difference in this world, much like my character in the book. Hopefully, with this book, I can donate a lot of money to these wonderful causes, help children and perhaps even inspire other kids my age to do the same,” said Zoe. Zoe is very passionate about writing.

She describes writing as “entering into a mystical world with creativity and adventure, where you can be whatever or whoever you want from a little girl to a dragon.” She says that her favorite part is that she enjoys traveling with the story. She feels like she becomes one with the book. Writing allows her to express the deepest parts of herself and she finds it to be breathtakingly magical.

Zoe is described by her friends and teachers as being responsible, respectful, honest, a loyal friend, studious, loving, and imaginative. Zoe never ceases to surprise those who meet her. One such surprise was experienced by 150 Fort Bend residents in 2009 when Zoe was 9 years-old. Her parents were hosting an event for Texas Governor Rick Perry at their home. One hundred and fifty guests were present, and the Governor was scheduled to arrive in a few minutes. Zoe went to her parents and told them that she would like to make a speech in front of the Governor and all of the guests. She said she wanted to “represent all the children of society today.” Literally minutes later,

Zoe had her speech written, and she was ready to go. Somehow, Zoe can put her thoughts on paper like not many children her age. Her speech turned out to be the highlight of the evening.

Zoe is very appreciative of life and all its gifts. She feels truly blessed to have her loving parents, her sweet 8-year-old

brother, Zade, and her great teachers thus far at The Honor Roll School who have all taught her so many valuable lessons in life. Zoe is artistic, creative, intuitive, intelligent, and simply never ceases to amaze those around her. You will be in awe of this young author when you meet her. H

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FORT BEND NEW NEIGHBORS

Comfort Keepers Opens Office in Sugar Land

The Papadopulos’ Bring Their Passion to “Primrose School of First Colony”

Comfort Keepers®, one of the world’s largest in-home care franchise networks, opened its newest office in Sugar Land recently. The local office is independently owned and operated by Demetrius and Arecia Flenaugh of Sugar Land and serves Stafford, Richmond, Missouri City, Rosenberg, Fulshear and Needville.

Over 675 locally owned and operated offices around the world provide in-home care services for aging adults, new mothers and others needing assistance with daily activities.

Comfort Keepers enables adults to live safely in their own homes by offering companionship and personal care services, such as trips to the doctor, meal preparation, light housekeeping, errands, shopping and even Alzheimer’s and Dementia care. Personal care such as bathing, toileting, transferring, and feeding is also provided.

Demetrius is a 20 year U.S. Army Veteran and his wife Arecia, who is currently active duty deployed in Afghanistan, have a passion for helping others. After spending the better part of the last 20 years moving from one assignment to another, they decided that moving to Sugar Land provided an excellent opportunity to grow their family and serve their community.

“Keeping individuals engaged in life mentally, emotionally, physically, and socially can make a difference in their wellbeing,” said Demetrius. “This is why we have made it our mission to provide seniors in our community the opportunity to live safely at home, in familiar surroundings, and work with them through our Interactive Caregiving Philosophy.”

The caregivers, referred to as Comfort Keepers, hired by the local offices, take everyday activities and transform them into opportunities to communicate with and engage their clients. Comfort Keepers are selected after a rigorous interviewing process including national background checks and personal and professional references.

For more information about Comfort Keepers, please call (281) 340-2078, visit www.comfortkeepers.com/office-871 or drop in the office located at 14090 SW Freeway, Suite 300, Sugar land, TX 77478. H

fort bend

Estela and Sotirios have passionately served families in Pearland since 2002, as owners of Primrose School of Pearland.

They have committed themselves to being community partners by giving back to Estela & Sotirios Papadopulos, owners of Pearland. Over the Primrose Schools of Pearland and First Colony. years charity donations, youth organization sponsorships, and educational sponsorships have always been a priority to them both.

The Papadopulos’ quest of providing quality early childcare and education led them to open Primrose School of Pearland Parkway in 2007 and Primrose School of West Pearland in 2010. “We have the same educational goals for Primrose children that parents do,” says Estela, owner of the Primrose School of First Colony. “We want our children to have active minds, healthy bodies, and happy hearts - to love who they are and what they do. Our goal is for each child to develop into a well-rounded individual prepared for learning and enjoying life,” she notes.

Primrose Schools’ proven curriculum prepares children for elementary school. A family of more than 240 private preschools, Primrose School is the nation’s leader in providing consistent, high-quality early childhood education and child care services.

Parents choose Primrose because of its proven value in preparing children for success in school and in life. Nationally recognized assessment tools and our own research with Primrose parents show that Primrose Pre-kindergarten and Kindergarten students are advanced in social skills and concept knowledge, and therefore are more ready for school than many of their peers.

Primrose and the Papadopulos’ believe that with the right foundation anything is possible for your child. To learn more about the many lifelong benefits of enrolling your child at Primrose School of First Colony, please visit www.primrosefirstcolony.com or call 281.565.2707. H

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magazine • February 2012

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Headliners continued from page 35

Join the Skeeters Family Skeeters Launch Host Family Program

Host family mom Sandy Keyes with Lancaster Barnstormers Tommy Everidge.

The Sugar Land Skeeters are currently seeking community members that are interested in becoming a host family for a Skeeters player during the Inaugural 2012 baseball season.

“Our host family program is extremely important to the entire baseball operation,” said Michael Kirk, Director of Baseball Operations. “By hosting a player, you give that player, who is otherwise many miles away from their home environment and loved ones, a sense of home during the course of a long season.”

Hosting a player gives fans the rare opportunity to get involved with the Sugar Land Skeeters on a personal level, as one of the players will be an “adopted member of the family” during his time here in Sugar Land. All that is required to be a host family is a private bedroom and use of a bathroom, washer/dryer and kitchen for a Skeeters player. Any other amenities provided will be greatly appreciated by the player.

“Many players have become like an extended member of our family,” said Linda Davidson, a Host Family member of the York Revolution. “We have stayed in touch with many of the players. Year in and year out, hosting a player in the Atlantic League has been a positive experience for everyone involved.”

For information about the Sugar Land Skeeters Host Family Program, please contact Michael Kirk at 281.240.4565. Interested families can also send an email to hostfamily@SugarLandSkeeters.com.

Headliners continued on page 41

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By Nick Nicholson

Ezra Miller and Tilda Swinton.

er, building to a haunting climax that, no matter how you see it, no matter who or what you might think is to blame, leaves you thinking. This film will chill you to the core with everything that it suggests and never shows the viewer. If there is a negative to take away from the film, it’s merely about how easy and typical it has become to blame the mother for the sins of the child. How some things never change. H

We Need to Talk About Kevin Starring: Tilda Swinton and Ezra Miller Director: Lynne Ramsay Company: Oscilloscope Pictures Now Showing: In Local Area Theatres MPAA Rating: R Grade: A

All images Courtesy of Oscilloscope Laboratories

T

he threatening underside of domestic life that no one ever talks about comes to the fore in the gripping, provocative psychological suspense of We Need To Talk About Kevin, a film that tunnels beneath the skin of a mother and son on a dangerous collision course from birth. What emerges is an original portrait of parenthood’s uncertainty, guilt and most harrowing fears, all from within the deeply subjective POV of a mother’s most unsettling memories. As Eva Khatchadourian tries to come to grips with her past, her malevolent offspring and what he has wrought, she falls into the thin cracks between innocence and evil, nature and nurture, love and abject horror.

Based on Lionel Shriver’s bestselling novel and directed by visionary filmmaker Lynne Ramsay, the story is brought to life by an ensemble cast headed by Oscar winner Tilda Swinton (Michael Clayton) as Eva, in the most exposed and psychologically complex role of a career made up of bold choices. Joining Swinton are rising newcomer Ezra Miller (City Island) as the

bone-chillingly unappeasable Kevin, who his mother knows like no one else; and Academy Award nominee John C. Reilly (Chicago) as Franklin, the light-hearted man Eva marries impulsively, only to find their son enlarging a rift between them.

Winner of Best Film at the London Film Festival, the story is told via an intense, time-bending style, flashing forwards and backwards, from Kevin’s birth to Kevin’s snowballing misdeeds to Eva’s acceptance of her current role stoically taking her licks as the town outcast and object of fury. It stays steadfastly in Eva’s inner world, through a maze of pop songs, hazy memories and indelibly shocking moments, engaging all the senses and a volatile mix of emotions. But all along, the tension keeps ratcheting tighter and tight-

Tilda Swinton and John C. Reilly.

Nick Nicholson is the Film and Entertainment Critic for CNN Radio, the Fort Bend Star, Fort Bend Focus, Pearland Focus as well as Focus on Women. In addition, his reviews can be seen and heard in numerous other print/media outlets in Texas and Oklahoma. Mr. Nicholson is in great demand as a speaker to both public and civic organizations on the subject of film and the entertainment industry. He is the co-founder of the Houston Film Critics Society and is currently the President of the organization. fort bend

magazine • February 2012

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Headliners continued from page 39

Fort Bend Empty Bowls Event To Benefit East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry

INTERNATIONAL PREPARATORY SCHOOL Pre-Kindergarten – 8th Grade

Register Now for the 2012-2013 School Year

InternationalPreparatorySchool.com Integrity, Honesty and Service to Others

Connie Esposito, Event Chairperson; Allison Wen, Owner, Safari Texas and Vickie Coates, Executive Director, EFBHNM with handpainted “empty bowls.”

East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry (EFBHNM) will be hosting the 3rd Annual Fort Bend Empty Bowls event on Friday, March 23, 2012 from 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. at Safari Texas Ranch. Guests will be served a meal of soup and bread as a reminder of families in Fort Bend County who don’t have enough food to eat. The soups will be provided by some of the best restaurants in the area. Hand-designed soup bowls which have been donated by local professional and amateur artists will be on display. The evening will also include live entertainment, silent and live auctions, along with a special style show featuring fashions from Tri-City Churches Resale Shop.

All proceeds from the Fort Bend Empty Bowls event will benefit East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry. Services provided by EFBHNM have been helping families in crisis for 21 years. The Food Pantry and other Emergency Assistance Programs at EFBHNM assist over 3,000 Fort Bend residents each month who are struggling to make ends meet.

Tickets to the event are $25 per person. Sponsorship opportunities are available. To purchase tickets or to find out more about Fort Bend Empty Bowls, contact Connie Esposito at Connie@HumanNeeds.org or 281.261.4902.

Headliners continued on page 45

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41

Focus INTERVIE W

By Claudia Richter

Carla Susi & Stefano Zuillian

l

Owners of Araya Artisan Chocolate

Carla Susi and her husband Stefano Zuillian, along with sister Silvana Susi, opened Araya Artisan Chocolate two years ago.

Since that time, they have doubled their business and educated customers on the sweet and savory aspects of chocolate in its purest and highest quality form. They have also let their passion for the art lead them in new and exciting directions. I recently visited with them and had the opportunity to ask some behind the scenes questions. Once you know their secrets, you may never look at a box of grocery store, mass-produced chocolates the same way again!

FBF AC

What attracted you to making hand-crafted chocolates?

Our passion is for chocolate and creating unique and beautiful things to indulge. Chocolate is a versatile ingredient that can be combined with unusual flavors, and thanks to the new techniques, is more fun to play with colors and patterns that were unimaginable before.

FBF AC

What is your favorite part of the business?

Our favorite part is to create new chocolate flavors. We enjoy looking for the perfect combinations, and then, bringing in the chocolate to balance everything out.

FBF AC

How many different flavors do you have, and what are the most

popular?

When we started the business, we had 17 flavors. Now, almost two years later, we have 35 different flavors. The most popular is the Pink Salt, a dark chocolate cream with a hint of salt from the Himalayan Mountains. Our clients prefer this one because the intense flavor of the dark chocolate enhanced with the salt is such a unique experience.

FBF

What would you say is the most unique part of what you do?

AC

AC

FBF AC

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Hand-painting our chocolates. In a world full of conventional, machinemade chocolates, our chocolates stand out for being carefully hand-crafted in very small batches with premium ingredients and no additives, preservatives or artificial flavors. Creating unique and unconventional chocolate flavors to place in artistic, limited edition boxes makes an authentic custom gift for someone special.

I noticed you use honey instead of sugar in your chocolates. Why? When preparing our chocolates, we prefer to use natural ingredients to reduce the calorie count, and honey adds healthy nutrients and great taste as well. We also use agave for some of our flavors.

Do you import all of your chocolate from Venezuela?

All of our products are made with Venezuelan chocolate. We do not import it; the distributor of Chocolate El Rey is here in Texas, and we buy directly from them.

FBF AC

Is Venezuelan chocolate considered as the best in the

world?

The Venezuelan cocoa is known as one the best in the world by chocolate connoisseurs. Venezuelan chocolate has strong flavor notes and aroma that last longer in the palate. It has a unique balance of tartness, acidity, and bitterness as well that makes it even more special.

FBF

Savory ingredients work so well with chocolate, are many people surprised by this? fort bend

magazine • February 2012

42

In our two-year experience, we found that savory chocolates is what people are looking for, especially gourmet combinations that are unusual. When preparing our chocolates, we use real fruit purees, premium liquors, and gourmet ingredients to create strong natural flavors that do not overwhelm the chocolate.

How would you describe Araya chocolates to someone who has never tried them before?

An ultimate gourmet experience that begins with the delicious aroma of fresh chocolate, follows with eye-catching colors and finishes with an amazing texture and flavor that melts in your mouth and lasts in your palate.

Do you have any special recommendations for Valentine’s

Day?

Yes, for that special person, give fresh premium chocolate locally handcrafted in Katy! Our new flavor for Valentine’s will be Rose Petal. We have a selection of beautiful Valentine boxes with heart shape chocolates, and also a gorgeous 4 tier box of 36 pieces to try one of each of our creations.

FBF AC

On what other occasions do your chocolates make good gifts?

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Playing and Sharing Quality Music with Others is Signature of the Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra Celebrates 20 Year Anniversary

The Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra during its first season in 1992-93.

D

espite demanding jobs as retailers, bers a nice turnout – and the rain – at one amphiprogrammers, teachers and more, the theater performance. “We moved indoors in the volunteer musicians of the Fort Bend middle of the concert, retuned and finished the Symphony Orchestra (FBSO) relish the chance concert,” said Choi. “There were no chairs so to relax by playing music together. The pleaseverybody stood, but it was a good atmosphere ure of playing and sharing music with the comas we were very close to the audience.” munity is just what Kai Yuen Choi envisioned Another memorable venue was the historic when he founded the orchestra in 1992.

Grand Opera House in Galveston. FBSO per“Even if I’m really tired or had a bad day, I can formed there with Ballet Forte in May 1998, the go to rehearsal, play music and feel better,” said first season under conductor John Ricarte. violinist and graphic designer Becky Walker, one In 2007, FBSO moved to the 1100-seat of three current musicians who joined FBSO durStafford Centre for regular season concerts. ing its 1992 inaugural season.

Championed by FBSO President Amy Floyd Twenty years and two name changes later, that Billasch, this move has led to a growing love of music still drives the orchestra’s existence. group of season subscribers and sold-out Though Choi has moved on – he now leads worship concerts. “Moving to such a fantastic perat Chinese Baptist Church – he’s excited for FBSO. formance venue gave FBSO a renewed viMarilyn Conger, Becky Walker and Sandy Chapman, original members of the Fort Bend “That’s my baby that’s now a grown-up adult.” tality and allowed us to provide a top-quality Following its February 19th concert of music Symphony Orchestra. (Photo by Coleman Locke) musical experience for guests and members from around the world, FBSO will hold a special alike,” said Billasch. “We are extremely 20th anniversary celebration. More information is at fbso.org. grateful to Mayor Scarcella and the City of Stafford for their support.”

Violinist Sandy Chapman, another 20-year member, attributes her Another move signaling FBSO’s commitment to quality was the 2008 longevity with FBSO to it being a worthwhile organization. “Any time hiring of music director Dr. Hector Agüero. “Hector has you play good music you uplift and spur people’s emotions,” said really improved the quality of our music,” said Conger.

Chapman. “FBSO has really enhanced the cultural climate of Fort “He’s also done a good job mixing popular and clasBend County.” sical music and that attracts audiences.”

Early on, FBSO relied almost entirely on donated services. RehearsConger appreciates Aguero’s special touches als took place at a member’s Gymboree child development center in that appeal to younger audiences, like wearing Sugar Land. “We had to bring our own folding chairs and stands and Halloween costumes at last year’s Hauntcert conmove the gym equipment,” recalls clarinetist and 20-year member cert. FBSO’s policy of free admission for children 12 Marilyn Conger. Now rehearsals occur most Tuesday evenings at First and under, when accompanied by an adult, also helps.

United Methodist Church in Missouri City.

“I’m really proud of how we’ve come along and how we’re making a For many years, concerts attracted a loyal following averaging 200 to 300 name for ourselves,” said Conger. “I’m especially pleased that we’ve enguests. Performances venues varied, but often included churches, schools dured and grown when professional orchestras around the country have and the George Memorial Library Amphitheater in Richmond. Choi rememstruggled to maintain their audience base.” H fort bend

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Headliners continued from page 41

Men Who Cook Slated for February 18th Who is Fort Bend County’s “top chef?” Find out at the Lamar Educational Award Foundation’s (L.E.A.F.) annual Men Who Cook presented this year by Andy Sanford, Ryan O’Hara and Diana Alexander of RBC Wealth Management. Men Who Cook will feature the culinary treats of 49 “celebrity” cooks along with dancing and auctions.

The event will be held February 18 at 6:30 p.m. in the Texas Ballroom at Safari Texas Ranch. Jeff Council will be the auctioneer for the evening, and the Billie Ledbetter Orchestra will provide the evening’s musical entertainment.

Proceeds from the evening are used to support the creative ideas and classroom projects by Lamar CISD teachers that would otherwise go unfunded.

L.E.A.F. also offers scholarship to graduating Lamar CISD students and

Men Who Cook L to R, (behind counter) Scott Glass, WCJC; Janice Knight; Chip Sutton, Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson; Shirley Kocich, Bank of America. (Front) Eloise Lucas, Legacy Ford; Ed Bailey and Marc Bollom, Gilbane; Vickie Autrey, Amegy Bank; Kevin Gardner, Rice & Gardner Consultants; Rick Blan, PBK; Kenny Kucherka, Amegy Bank and Terry Crockett, NewFirst National Bank. to paraprofessionals working on their teaching certificates. In eleven years of existence, L.E.A.F. has invested more than $1.42 million into LCISD schools.

Tickets for the gala are $60. For

Headliners continued on page 48

Far Away Places 1-3 page ad_Layout 1 1/1/12 8:48 AM Page 1

Sunday, February 19, 2012

Dr. Héctor Agüero

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Music Director

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Aliana Announces Grand Opening Celebration For New Model Home Village

Aliana, one of the newest masterplanned developments in Fort Bend County, has announced it will host a two weekend grand opening event in celebration of its new Model Home Village. On March 3 & 4 and March 10 & 11, 2012, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., guests are invited to tour 11 brand new, fully-furnished, model homes all conveniently located within the village - built by a roster of highly regarded builders in the Houston area.

Setting the homes in the village apart from other models in Fort Bend County is the addition of themed backyard living areas. In Houston, the temperate weather lends itself to outdoor entertaining for much of the year and outdoor kitchens are increasingly becoming a popular addition

in a growing number of homes, adding a practical extension to the family’s living area.

Each of the new model homes in Aliana will feature an outdoor living area with a distinctive design and theme, such as “Dolce Vita,” “Stir-Fried Asian,” “Sports Bar,” and “Zen Garden,” among others.

Guests will also be able to register for a special “Keep Me” card that entitles them

to receive a $5,000 credit toward upgrades for a new home purchased from any builder in Aliana. This credit will be valid from the beginning of the grand opening event through December 31, 2012.

With access to major roadways, Aliana is conveniently located west of Houston, on the Grand Parkway (State Highway 99) at West Airport. For more information, visit www.alianahouston.com. H

Fort Bend County Women’s Center Announces New Director of PennyWise Resale Centers

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281-238-4719

Joy B. Dowell has been appointed the new Director of the Fort Bend County Women’s Center PennyWise Resale Centers.

Joy has served on the Fort Bend County Women’s Center Board of Directors for 7 years and was appointed Chairman in 2009. Joy was instrumental in the opening of the Stafford and Mission Bend PennyWise Resale Centers and helped to remodel the Richmond store in 2004, which earned her “PennyWise Volunteer of the Year” in 2004.

Prior to accepting her new position, Joy served as the President/CEO for Shape Up Sugar Land, Vice President of the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance, District Manager for JCPenney’s and was the owner of Annabelle’s, a women’s clothing boutique, for many years.

281-239-6193 fax

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Joy is a graduate of the Rice University NonProfit Leadership Continuing Education program, Fort Bend Chamber Leadership program and is currently enrolled in the Fort Bend ChamJoy B. Dowell ber’s Non-Profit Leadership Class of 2013. She has received numerous awards for her achievements in both the non-profit and profit sectors over the past 15 years.

Joy lives in Sugar Land with her husband, Dennis. They have 4 children and 8½ grandchildren. H

State of the County 2012 with Fort Bend County Judge Robert Hebert A Collaboration Between The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce and The Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance

Judge Bob Hebert

The 2012 State of the County with Fort Bend County Judge Robert Hebert will be presented by the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce and the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance on Friday, February 10, 2012. The luncheon will be held at Safari Texas Ranch, 11627 FM 1464, Richmond, from 11:30 am – 1:00 pm.

Fort Bend County Judge Bob Hebert will give a comprehensive presentation on the State of the County with highlights on budget and financial challenges, the completion of the Fort Bend County Justice Center and future plans for the “Old Courthouse.”

Judge Hebert will also review local mobility projects including updates on the Grand Parkway, Westpark and Fort Bend Parkway Toll Roads.

Available sponsorships include: Event Presenter Sponsorship available for $2,000; Event Underwriter Sponsorship available for $1,000; and Corporate Tables available for $400.

Individual member reservations are available for $30 and individual nonmember reservations are available for $40. Register and pay online at www.

FortBendChamber.com, contact Farrah Gandhi at 281-566-2152 or email Farrah@fortbendcc.org. H

Memorial Hermann Named One of the Nation’s Top 15 Health Systems Memorial Hermann Healthcare System was the only hospital system in Houston and one of only two in Texas named one of the nation’s top 15 health systems by Thomson Reuters, a leading provider of information and solutions to improve the cost and quality of healthcare. The prominent award is based on criteria such as clinical outcomes, patient safety, patient satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Researchers from the Thomson Reuters 100 Top Hospitals® program analyzed the clinical quality and efficiency of more than 300 health systems to identify the top 15.

“We are extremely delighted and proud to receive this distinguished recognition,” said Dan Wolterman, President and CEO of Memorial Hermann Healthcare System. “This award was based on objective public data – not reputation – meaning that our keen focus on patient safety and quality differentiated Memorial Hermann from any system in Houston, and placed us among the top healthcare systems in the nation.

“This award is a game-changer and a true testament to the outstanding clinical staff at Memorial Hermann,” Wolterman continued. “Such recognition makes a strong statement that Memorial Hermann cares about quality clinical outcomes, patient safety, and exceptional patient care experiences while maximizing the cost efficiencies of care. This allows Memorial Hermann to deliver value in the care we provide our patients.”

Memorial Hermann was among the Top 5 healthcare systems in the nation with revenues in excess of $1.5 billion.

U.S. health systems with two or more short-term, general, non-federal hospitals; cardiac and orthopedic hospitals; and critical access hospitals were assessed in the study. Researchers looked at eight metrics that gauge clinical quality and efficiency: mortality rate, 30-day readmission rate, adherence to clinical standards of care (evidence-based core measures published

www.fortbend

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by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services), and HCAHPS patient survey score (part of a national initiative sponsored by the United States Department of Health and Human Services to measure the quality of care in hospitals).

The study relied on public data from the 2010 Medicare Provider Analysis and Review (MedPAR) data and the CMS Hospital Compare data sets.

Last year, Memorial Hermann stood out from other Houston health systems racking up numerous awards for quality and safety, including: • Four Memorial Hermann hospitals were listed among America’s 50 Best Hospitals by HealthGrades®, the leading independent healthcare ratings company. They are ranked among the top 1 percent in the nation. They include Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital, Memorial Hermann Southeast Hospital, Memorial Hermann Northwest Hospital and Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Hospital. They were the only Houston-area institutions to achieve this distinction.

• Six Memorial Hermann hospitals were listed among the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals® by Thomson Reuters and were the only ones in the Houston area to earn this recognition. Collectively, Memorial Hermann Southwest, Memorial Hermann Southeast, Memorial Hermann Northwest and Memorial Hermann The Woodlands were awarded in the teaching hospitals category.

For the second year in a row, Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital was recognized in the medium community hospitals category. And Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital was awarded in the small community hospitals category.

Researchers from the Thomson Reuters 100 Top Hospitals program have analyzed and reported on the performance of individual hospitals since 1993. The top health systems were announced in the January 16 edition of Modern Healthcare magazine.

To learn more, visit www.memorialhermann.org. H

Headliners continued from page 45

Texana Gala Committee Is Hard At Work For “Reaching For The Stars 2012”

Back row: Tom Larsen, Eileen McDowell, Annie Watts, Patrick Sexton, Lyle Woodruff, Caryl Woodruff, Connie Harmon, Cee Cee Parker, Carmen Hernandez, Melanie Heathcock & Lisa Matthews. Front row: Eloise Lucas, Franco Albarran and Carlos Hernandez.

Fort Bend Aggie Mom’s Club to Raffle Off 2012 Chevy Malibu From Classic Chevrolet

Front row: Anne Pencak, Sharon Jamison (in car), Debbie Cortez, Suzette Peoples, and Elizabeth Alexander. Back row: Pam Dishberger, Linda Casey, Krista Smith, Jan Myers, Jeree`Nelson, Stephanie Rammrath, and Denise Burger-Garton.

The Fort Bend Aggie Mom’s Club is selling raffle tickets for a 2012 Chevy Malibu LT furnished by Classic Chevrolet-Don Kerstetter. The tickets are $100 each, and only 500 (maximum) will be sold.

The drawing will be held on March 31, 2012 during Parent’s Weekend at Texas A&M University, and the winner does not need to be present to win.

There is a 2nd place prize: a guided

fishing trip for 2 in Rockport; and, a 3rd place prize: Sugar Land Skeeters baseball tickets (11 games total) which include the inaugural season opening day.

The proceeds from the raffle will be used to help fund scholarships awarded to Fort Bend Aggie students.

For information regarding purchasing raffle tickets, please contact Stephanie Rammrath at srammrath@comcast.net.

Prepare for launch, as we set off for another galaxy at Texana Center’s Reaching for the Stars 2012 Gala.

Legacy Ford is in full command as the Presenting Sponsor for the event to take place on Friday, April 13 at Safari Texas Ranch.

Franco Albarran is returning for a second year as the Gala Chair. He has a great committee that is already hard at work preparing an evening of great food, fabulous entertainment and superb company. But, as if that is not enough, there will be a chance to bid on unique items in the live and silent auctions.

The event will benefit the Texana Center’s behavioral healthcare and intellectual and developmental disabilities services and programs.

This year’s Honorary Chairs are Commissioner James and Mary Jo Patterson who have worked tirelessly to improve the lives of people in Fort Bend County with intellectual disabilities. They are supported by a group of distinguished community leaders who have agreed to serve on the Honorary Committee: Farha Ahmed and Zubair Ashraf, Don and Darla Farmer, Don and Celia Olson, Randy and Gail Parker and Larry and Lucia Street.

Commissioner James Patterson, one of Fort Bend County’s outstanding auctioneers, has also agreed to lend his persuasive skills as he guides guests through the live auction. Back by popular request is Yvonne Washington who will entertain guests with a fabulous mix of music to dance the night away. As always, Texana is also planning a surprise for the audience – so don’t miss out!

Table sponsorships begin at $1,500 and individual tickets are $100 each.

For information about sponsorship or tickets, contact 281.239.1311. To purchase tickets online, visit www.texanacenter.com.

Headliners continued on page 51 fort bend

magazine • February 2012

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February 2012 Winner “Gondola in Motion ”

By Matt Diehl Congratulations Matt, you’ve earned a $50 gift certificate to a restaurant!

ENTER TO WIN Fort Bend Focus Magazine is looking for great amateur photos. Think you have a great shot? Any subject matter will be considered, black and white or color, special effects and/or edited are not necessary.

A WINNER EVERY MONTH Each month’s winner receives a $40 gift certificate to a restaurant and the winning photo will be published in our magazine. To claim your prize, call Norma @ 281-690-4242. Runner-up photos may be published in our “Readers’ Photo Album.”

Please make sure to send some basic information about every photo you submit such as: who, where, when, a title, your name and daytime phone number.

By submitting an entry, the photographer gives the Fort Bend Focus Magazine the right to use and publish their photograph. There is no contest deadline.

NO LIMIT TO ENTRIES To submit a digital photo, e-mail the jpeg file to Michael@ FortBendFocus.com. Digital photos must be HIGH RESOLUTION at least 300 dpi at actual size of at least 4” x 6”.

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Headliners continued from page 48

Fort Bend Regional Council Holds Third Annual Helen Cordes Award Luncheon Fort Bend Regional Council on Substance Abuse, Inc. honors Linda Schoonmaker The Fluor Corporation, Roberta K. Randall Charitable Foundation and Marion and David Young present the Third Annual Helen Cordes Award Luncheon on February 23, 2012 at the Safari Ranch in Richmond, Texas.

The award luncheon is held in honor of an individual who has given their time, experience and expertise to Fort Bend Regional Council (FBRC). The Honoree for 2012 is Linda Schoonmaker, a partner in the labor and employment department of Seyfarth Shaw LLP. Schoonmaker is a dedicated community volunteer who served on FBRC’s Board of Directors from 2004 to 2010 and as the Board President from 2006 to 2008. She is steadfast in her devotion to FBRC’s mission, programs and projects and is a trusted partner in substance abuse prevention in our community.

Community Garage Sale at Sugar Land Methodist Church on March 24th Spring cleaning might be more fun if there’s a monetary reward. Market your gently-used ‘wares’ at Sugar Land Methodist’s annual Community Garage Sale.

The sale will be held from 8:00 am until 1:00 pm on Saturday, March 24th in the Great Hall and the Great Hall parking lot.

Proceeds from the sale of booths benefit the ministry and missions of the church’s youth choir, One Voice. Booths must be purchased ahead of time through the church office.

Don’t like the merchant end of the garage sale business? Donate your items and help a great cause. Profits from the sale of donated items also benefit One Voice.

You may bring your donated items to the Great Hall beginning Thursday, March 22nd. Pick-up of large items can be arranged.

For more information contact, Kip Johnson at 281-491-6041 or visit sugarlandmethodist.org/music/students.

Headliners continued on page 55

The Helen Cordes Award Luncheon was founded on the community achievements of Helen Cordes who served on the Board of Directors of Fort Bend Regional Council from 1991-1997 and was the President of the Board from 1992-1995.

During that time and long afterward, Cordes served FBRC with a passion for its mission and inspired that same passion in so many who were privileged to work with her. In recognition of Cordes’ leadership and long years of dedicated service to FBRC, the Helen Cordes Award was established.

Your sponsorship of this event would provide immeasurable support as the FBRC fights the debilitating effects of substance abuse in our schools and community. For more information, contact Irene Wisner at iwisner@fortbendcouncil.org or 281-207-2409.

Presenting Sponsor Barbara Jones, Fluor Corporation; Lisa Poynor, FBRC CEO and Presenting Sponsor Roberta Avery, Roberta K. Randall Charitable Foundation.

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See this month’s photo contest winner on page 50.

Focus Readers’ Photo Album February Runners-Up to our Amateur Photo Submission

“Our Little Pumpkin”

By Dana Shumate

“Mt. McKinley-The Invisible Mountain”

By D. Hamilton

“The Emerald Humming Bird”

By Nirdesh Oswal

“Brotherhood and Leadership”

By Carmen Harris

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By Whitney Hensler

FORT BEND

Focus CareS Gail McClendon: Committed to Children

A

s an adult, Gail McClendon had always felt “Gail was involved in the setting up of the orcalled to help disadvantaged children who ganization from day one,” said Jill Curtis, the Exshe feels are often “forgotten” by society, but ecutive Director of Fort Bend Cares. “She did evdidn’t have the “time or finances to become involved.” erything from recruit volunteers to go out in the “I [also couldn’t] find anything I felt I could wholly community and make innumerable contacts. Her commit to,” said McClendon. role encompassed virtually everything we did.”

The opportunity to make a commitment to an Although McClendon has since gone back to organization she felt passionate about arose in work as a full-time nurse at her husband’s family 2004 when her husband, Dr. Robert McClendon, practice and says her role in the organization has helped found Fort Bend Cares, a foundation that “lessened,” she is currently involved in coordinatgives grants to organizations throughout Fort Bend ing the Silent Auction for this year’s annual dinCounty that work with underprivileged children. ner party, Road Trip to RIO, which takes place on Gail McClendon Originally established to help the Boy Scouts, the February 11th at Fluor in Sugar Land. foundation has gone on to give away approximately “I like knowing that kids are receiving help $720,000 in grants to numerous organizations across the County. that may otherwise not occur,” she said. “There is a special “I think in our society here in Fort Bend County we tend to forplace in my heart for those kids who have not had a great get that there are kids out there that do not have the advantages childhood. I want to be a small part of making their life better we do,” McClendon said. “The kids can sometimes fall through in some way.” the cracks, especially in an environment where we don’t see their McClendon’s work, which Curtis described as the “blood needs. I tend to feel like they’re forgotten kids.” and guts” of the organization, has had a lasting impact on McClendon served as Operations Director for Fort Bend Cares both those she has helped and those who work with her. “The for the first five years, during which she was in charge of coordiamazing thing is, honestly, Gail has the most giving, generous nating the foundation’s annual dinner party which, coupled with heart,” said Curtis. “Truly, you will never find a more compasan annual golf tournament, raises the bulk of the funding for the sionate soul who continually commits her time, talents and foundation. As Operations Director, McClendon recruited voluntreasures to the service of those less fortunate.” teers, solicited corporate and individual sponsors, and oversaw For more information about Fort Bend Cares, visit www. the execution of the event, including decorations, entertainment, fortbendcares.org or call 832-392-1983. Tickets for the February and all logistics.

11th Road Trip to RIO can be purchased on the website. H

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Chamber Young Professionals One Year Celebration

Jan-Michael Jenkins, Ray Aguilar, Catherine Duyka, David Crowl & Joel Perez.

The Fort Bend Junior Service League Sustainers Welcomed Mrs. Texas to their December Meeting

Santiago Garza, Carlos Bortoni & Crissy Nolan.

Evelyn Traylor & Abby Tracy.

Alex Velasco, David Romain, Ryan Becker, Andrew Mulder & Carlos Lonsdale.

Michole Fields, Kristin Wernecke & Charlotte Young.

Celebration of a Century

International Social Group for Adults Christmas Party Dinner

Mayor Allen Owen salutes Doris Johnson at her 100th Birthday Celebration. Ms. Johnson’s daughter, Kay Farah, at right, joined the party.

Photo courtesy of Missouri City.

ISGA members attending the Christmas Holiday Party were Robert & Vicki Latham, Linda Amaru, Antony Wu, Debra Hulen, Tanya & Jim Shearer with Juliet & Goke Olabisi. fort bend

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Headliners continued from page 51

Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels Teams Up with Gillman Subaru for “Most Meals” Contest

Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels recently joined forces with the local Subaru dealership, Gillman Subaru of Houston Southwest, to compete in Meals On Wheels Association of America (MOWAA)’s “Most Meals” Contest as part of Subaru of America, Inc.’s “Share The Love” Holiday Event. MOWAA plans to award $150,000 in “Most Meals” grants to Meals On Wheels programs throughout the country that recruit dealership employees to volunteer, deliver meals in Subaru vehicles, and engage community members in the fight to end senior hunger.

As part of the competition, Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels partnered with Gillman Subaru of Houston Southwest during the holiday season to help load up the volunteers’ cars with meals that were delivered to home-bound senior adults.

“We are excited to partner with the Gillman Subaru group again for the Subaru ‘Share the Love’ Program,” said Manuela Arroyos, Chief Executive Officer of Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels.

“Over the past two years, we have been awarded over $3,000 from this program through the Meals on Wheels Association of America and look forward to future partnerships with Gillman Subaru in an effort to raise much needed funds to help feed the many senior adults in our community who look to us for a daily meal.”

“The employees of Gillman Subaru of Southwest Houston are always happy to be a part of the “Share the Love” Program,” said Wally Elostaz, General Manager of Gillman Subaru of Southwest Houston. “It is always fun to come out and help Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels with the meal distribution in Sugar Land.

Working alongside the agency’s volunteers and staff gives us an opportunity to give back to the community while also promoting Subaru and the ‘Share the Love’ Program.”

“Most Meals” grants awarded by MOWAA to select participating Meals

Saba Barari-Gillman Subaru; Kristin Weiss-Director of Development at Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels; Issac Goodall-Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels; Wally Elostaz-General Manager at Gillman Subaru; and Jesse Coreas-Gillman Subaru are ready to load up the meals for the homebound senior adults in Fort Bend County.

On Wheels programs will range between $500 to $5,000. The country’s economic downturn has made it more difficult to raise money to continue feeding the community’s homebound seniors adults. If awarded funds, Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels will use the monies to continue to provide daily nutritious meals to the senior adults in

Fort Bend and Waller counties.

For more information on or to donate to Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels, please contact Kristin Weiss, Director of Development at FBS, at 281-633-7057 or kweiss@fortbendseniors.org. To volunteer, please contact Susan Whitacre, Director of Volunteers at 281-633-7063 or susan@ fortbendseniors.org. H

TCRN-Sugar Land

Chili Cook Off Saturday Feb 18, 2012, 2pm-5pm Sugar Land Town Square Plaza

TCRN-SugarLand.com

For Details or to Register Visit:

www.TCRN-ChiliCookoff.org www.fortbend

.com • February 2012

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Local Photographer Wins First Place American Red Cross Super Ball XI Sponsor Party

May W. Tape & Jonathan Willman.

Debi Beauregard, Fort Bend Focus staff member, participated in the Northwest Houston Photography Club’s January photo contest. Her entry, “Winkelmann, Texas” was awarded first place in the Open category.

Pete & Vivian Douglas with Ron Ewer.

Child’s Advocates of Fort Bend Christmas Home Tour

Kayla Matthews & Janet Hilton.

Eileen Akerson, Bud Smith & Terri Stuart.

Stephen F. Austin High School Annual Varsity-Alumni Men’s Soccer Scrimmage This year’s match was dedicated to Jamie Chapman, a 2009 AHS graduate and former Varsity soccer player. Jamie was involved in a car accident on November 24th and remains hospitalized with severe brain injuries. Colin Chapman, his brother, opened the match with a message about the accident and Jamie’s battle back to health. Colin’s message was followed by a moment of silence in prayer.

The Chapman Family accepting the #3 jersey. fort bend

Greatwood resident Vicki Latham participated in the Christmas Home Tour again this year by performing as a featured harpist.

absolutely! Memorial Holiday Soiree

absolutely! Memorial Magazine staff members recently hosted a Holiday Soiree at Memorial Forest Club. Pictured are Hallie Keller, Andrea Rigamonti, Lisa Fredrickson, Stephenie Cox, Suzanne Stiles, Lara Bell, Jennifer Elliott and Amy Gross. magazine • February 2012

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F O R T B E N D ’ S VA L E N T I N E ’ S D AY G I F T G U I D E

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Call 281-499-0936; lmtradingus.com.

WHY GLUTEN FREE DIETS FAIL...

Looking for a gluten free lifestyle? A major reason people fall off of their diet is lack of variety and food ideas.

Glutenology- Health Recipes for the Gluten Free Warrior will keep the ideas coming. Order your copy today.

Call 281-240-2229; www.glutenfreesociety.org.

VALENTINE’S DAY SPECIAL

BEAUTIFUL SKIN Protect your loved one with our Antioxidant Daily Face Protectant. This unique formula combines broad spectrum sun protection, microscopic sponge technology, powerful antioxidant components and a hydrating complex for extraordinary skin protection and rejuvenation. Available at Sugar Land Plastic Surgery.

Call 281-980-8000; www.MyBodySurgeon.com.

Show her your love with our featured Valentine sterling silver Lagos bracelet with triple “X” caviar design. Limited quantity at a special price of $295. Open Tuesday – Friday 10am to 6pm and Saturday 10am to 3pm.

J Loggins Jewelers, 14015 Southwest Fwy. in Sugar Land. Call 281-242-2900; www.jloggins.com.

SWIRLED WITH LOVE Give a unique gift this Valentine’s Day with a Gigi’s Love Box filled with decadent Gigi’s Cupcakes. Available in store and online at www.GigisCupcakesUSA.com. Located at 15850 Southwest Freeway, Suite 100, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Call 281-565-6108; Facebook.com/GigisCupcakesSugarlandTexas. fort bend

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FREE LATISSE WITH EVERY PROCEDURE LATISSE® solution is a prescription treatment for hypotrichosis used to grow eyelashes, make them longer, thicker and darker. Eyelash hypotrichosis is another name for having inadequate or not enough eyelashes. Timeless Plastic Surgery, 1327 Lake Pointe Parkway #300, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Call 281-242-TIME (8463); www.TimelessPlasticSurgery.com.

KING OF HEARTS WARM THEIR HEARTS

The Mark Roberts King of Hearts Fairy is a magnificent celebration of love. For the more whimsical at heart, the Valentine Elf is sure to delight.

This is the first Elf made for St. Valentine’s Day, so he may be hard to find! Visit Interiors Market, located at 2625 Town Center Blvd., Sugar Land.

Call 281-980-2070; www.interiorsmarkettx.com.

Give those you love the gift of countless memories around the fire with a custom fire pit from TexasCustomPatios.com. Make every event an ‘outdoor event’ with family and friends.

Call today for a free design consultation.

Call 281-265-1994; TexasCustomPatios.com.

LOVE YOUR SKIN AGAIN Clarisonic MIA is a sonic facial brush that leaves skin clean, fresh and refined. Purchase any Clarisonic in February and receive a FREE VISIA skin complexion analysis! (Value $125) Dr. Shel Wellness and Medical Spa, 1437 Hwy 6, Suite 100, Sugar Land 77478.

Call 281-313-7435; www.drshel.com.

LOVE IN THE FAST LANE Give the gift of speed this Valentine’s Day from TexasDirectAuto.com.

With thousands of vehicles in stock, you’re sure to find a ride that you will love! TexasDirectAuto.com, 12053 SW Freeway, Stafford, Texas 77477. Call 281-499-8200; www.TexasDirectAuto.com.

LOVE YOUR EYEWEAR Providing the best eyewear and service available. Our optician is trained in all aspects of frame and lens choices, including the latest in breakthrough technology, to provide you with the best possible vision and meet your fashion and lifestyle needs. Open Tuesday – Friday 8:30am to 5pm and Saturday 9am to 3pm. Advance Eyewear, 736 Hwy. 6 S, Ste 101, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Call 281-240-0810. www.fortbend

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F O R T B E N D ’ S VA L E N T I N E ’ S D AY G I F T G U I D E

Love

things we

PICK A GARDEN GUY GIFT CERTIFICATE FOR VALENTINES Make someone’s landscaping dreams come true. Gift certificates starting in amounts as small as $150. Visit www.garden-guy.com or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ GardenGuyHouston.

THE GIFT OF PURE RELIEF Luxurious care for hands and feet. Pamper your loved one with the gift of smooth and nourished skin. A touching gift for hands and feet. Salon Eben & Day Spa, 15510 Lexington Blvd., Ste. G, Sugar Land.

Call 281-980-5160; www.Salonebendayspa.com.

LOVE YOUR RIDE! The Camaro isn’t just a performance car, but an extraordinary presence in a new age of precision. The all new Camaro is efficient and technologically savvy – 21st century on every level.

Classic Chevrolet of Sugar Land, 13115 SW Fwy @ Hwy 90A. Call 281-491-9000; classicchevysugarland.com.

BEAUTIFUL SKIN REVEALED Take 20% off on Obagi Products for your Home Treatment Regimen.

Forever Young Skin Care by Linda, Gallery of Salons, 11333 Fountain Lake Dr., Stafford, TX 77477.

Call 713-269-9955; lindasforeveryoung.com.

TIMELESS EYEWEAR Stop by our optical boutique to view new spring collections including Fendi, Prada, Gold & Wood and more! Make an appointment today with one of our therapeutic optometrists.

Most insurances accepted and gift cards available to make the perfect gift. Eye Trends @ Town Square, 16200 City Walk, Sugar Land, TX 77479.

Call 281-265-2000; www.drzaibaq.com.

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Sexy

Eat Something

By Stephenie Cox Cinnamon: Among the spices considered useful for producing “heat” within the body, cinnamon has been measured to increase appetite, both physical and mental.

Vanilla: Vanilla’s power is in its aroma. The hypothalamus, the gland that controls memory and emotion, jumps into action, evoking feelings connected with vanilla’s powerful scent. Dropped into bath water, vanilla will transform the body into a sensuous mind-tease.

Chile Peppers: Peppers have the ability to release endorphins triggering feelings of pleasure. Each of the hundreds of chile varieties produces a different level of heat and subtly unique flavor.

Chocolate: Known as “nourishment of the Gods,” chocolate contains flavonoids – antioxidants from the same “family” as those touted in green tea and red wine. In fact, studies show that the antioxidant activity in one serving of cocoa is higher than that of either tea or red wine. The darker the chocolate, the more potent antioxidants it contains.

Wine: A glass or two of wine kicks off any romantic interlude. Wine relaxes and helps to stimulate our senses. Drinking wine can be an erotic experience…let your eyes feast on the color of the liquid…savor the taste on your lips. All in moderation, of course! H

Chocolate Fondue is a

Valentine’s Day Treat!

I

t’s well known that chocolate is a staple of Valentine’s Day fare. Fondue is one of the many ways chocolate can be enjoyed. Small slices of fruit, cake or cookies can be carefully dipped into the warm chocolate bath and enjoyed as part of a Valentine’s Day celebration.

Recipes for chocolate fondue originated in the 1960s, when the chocolate was enjoyed with bits of pastry and fresh fruit.

Etiquette states that the fork used to dip the food into the fondue pot should then be used to transfer the food to an individual’s plate. The food should not be eaten directly from the dipping fork.

Also, one should only dip the food once and not take a bite and then dip again.

To make chocolate fondue at home, simply mix chocolate chunks or chips over a double boiler with one tablespoon of butter and a small container of room-temperature heavy cream. The butter and the cream serve to keep the melted chocolate smooth and prevent the chocolate from seizing up. Serve a variety of dipping foods, like pound cake cubes or slices of cantaloupe or pineapple. Of course, fresh strawberries and chocolate always are a good match. H Source: www.metrocreativeconnection.com www.fortbend

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Red Carpet Ready Fort Bend’s Ricky Rico Joins Cast of Television Show

By Claudia Richter

F

ort Bend viewers who tuned in to the new CBS situation comedy Rob, which aired on January 12 in the 7:30 pm time slot, may have noticed a familiar face among the cast: Alexander Elementary fifth-grade student Ricky Rico. Rico joined the cast after testing against other actors for the role. He actually replaced an actor who had been originally chosen for the part. The show decided Rico was the right choice. Other cast members include title character Rob, played by Rob Schneider, Cheech Marin, Lupe Ontiveros, Claudia Bassols, Eugenio Derbez, and Diana Maria Riva.

The premise of the show revolves about a man who marries into a MexicanAmerican family.

Rico is a natural when it comes to acting. He has the personality, drive and ambition that seems to open doors for him, and it runs in the family. His fam-

Rob Schneider and Ricky Rico. ily was chosen to participate in NBC’s Great American Road Trip, a reality show that aired in 2009. Since then, he has racked up numerous television commercials and signed with an agent, the same agent who represented Jonathan Taylor Thomas of the popular show Home Improvement. “She loved him right away,” says mom Erica Rico about Ricky’s agent. Erica is a local celebrity herself as a co-host of Houston’s 93Q Morning Zoo radio show. “She told us that Ricky had something really special about him and more charisma than any of the other child actors she has ever represented.”

Now Ricky is ready to hit the Red Carpet after being picked up for more episodes and being asked to attend the premiere and press junkets. He especially loves having the catered food on the set, a dressing room with his name on the door and his own designated parking spot. Erica says that she prefers his acting to be during the summers only so that he can still have a normal school life. Ricky is an avid reader, and enjoys science and social studies, but like many his age, ranks recess

Ricky with cast mates Lupe Ontiveros and Cheech Marin. fort bend

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and lunch at the top of his favorites list.

He also stays busy with baseball, soccer, football, fencing and taekwondo.

One thing he misses while he is away from home is the friendly people in Katy.

He is a very giving child and likes to help others. He donates ten percent of his earnings to the Snowdrop Foundation to help their fundraising efforts to support patients and families at Texas Children’s Cancer Center.

Ricky is lucky to have a very loving, close family, and it would be a surprise to no one if they ended up on another television show in the near future. In the meantime, he still has his chores around the house and homework to keep up with. That is, until Hollywood starts calling, and he heads out there to make sure his dressing room is just the way he left it, with his name and a star in big letters on the door. H

Ricky Rico enjoys having his very own dressing room on the set of Rob.

M edical F ocus Hamilton Vein Center Chosen to Participate in Study for New FDA-Approved Vein Treatment The treatment of varicose veins has The Hamilton Vein Center Advantage reached another milestone with the FDA The Hamilton Vein Center opened in spring 2010 in Sugapproval of the ClariVein® procedure – the ar Land with the mission to bring minimally invasive procefirst-ever non-thermal ablation treatment dures out of the confines of the hospital setting and into the for enlarged veins caused by venous recomforts and convenience of a doctor’s office. All procedures flux disease. This treatment, created and are performed on an outpatient basis with the rare exception distributed in the in extreme cases. While many hospital U.S. by Vascular groups and surgeons offer vein treatDr. Carlos R. Insights, was first ments in addition to a host of other Hamilton III BSN, approved for use in treatments, treating veins is all the IBCLC Europe and has been Hamilton Vein Center does. Medical performed there for Director Dr. Carlos R. Hamilton III the past two years with treis an ultrasound specialist who uses mendous results. In the U.S., ultrasound as a tool to diagnose vein ClariVein® is currently covered by disorders and perform image-guided Medicare and is undergoing scrupuprocedures – technical skills many docClariVein® Occlusion Catheter lous studies to evaluate outcomes of tors who perform vein treatments do efficacy and patient satisfaction, innot have. He has performed 10,000+ cluding an exclusive prospective, multi-center trial from six procedures – more than anyone in the greater Houston area. sites across the country. The Hamilton Vein Center, with loPatients of the Hamilton Vein Center are also treated to the cations in Sugar Land and Bellaire, has been chosen as one best support care by a friendly, professional group of physiof the six and is looking for volunteers to participate in the cians’ assistants, ultrasound technicians, registered nurses study. and administrative personnel.

Heat is off and the results are on Freedom from the restrictive bureaucracy of hospitals has As with minimally invasive heat ablation procedures enabled Dr. Hamilton and his team to forge relationships such as VNUS Closure™, ClariVein® collapses and seals with the forerunners of the minimally invasive vein treatshut the diseased portion of the vein wall. The only differment industry, like the makers of ClariVein®. The Hamilton ence is no heat is used. Instead, the sclerotherapy solution Vein Center was asked to participate in the ClariVein® study Sodium Tetradecyl is injected through an infusion catheter because Dr. Hamilton has performed more ClariVein® proand dispersed as a tiny wire rotates along the vein walls. cedures than any doctor or vein treatment center in Texas.

The combination of the rotating and the fluid break down Due to high demand and need for convenient, efficient the wall, collapsing it. Once this happens, blood is redirected vein treatments, the Hamilton Vein Center embarked on its through the deeper, healthier veins and healing of the afexpansion plans with the recent opening of a second locafected area begins. Over time, the body naturally absorbs tion in Bellaire. A welcome addition to the staff there is Dr. the collapsed vein.

Phylliss Chappell who brings over 30 years of medical and Because no heat is used, it is not necessary to numb the radiology experience to the Bellaire office. area with a local anesthetic. This means no pre-procedure To participate in the ClariVein® study or for more inforsticks, which can be uncomfortable for some. It also elimimation, contact the Hamilton Vein Center at 281-565-0033. nates the risk of thermal heat injury to surrounding areas Medicare patients preferred but not required to take part. H – which means risk of nerve injury is eliminated as well.

Benefits of the ClariVein® procedure • Greatly reduced pain levels during and post procedure • Minimal bruising • No downtime • Fast recovery • Comparable results to VNUS Closure™ and other ablation procedures

www.fortbend

GOT SOMETHING NEWSWORTHY? Send your news via www.FortBendFocus.com.

Deadline for submission is on or before the 10th of the month for the next month’s publication. All submissions are subject to the publisher’s approval, editing and space availability.

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M edical F ocus

Panel of heart experts: Dr. Imran Mohiuddin,Vascular Surgeon; Dr. Sherman Tang, Interventional Cardiologist; Dr. Kesavan Shan, Diagnostic Cardiologist; Dr. Uttam Tripathy, Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgeon; Dr. B. Keith Ellis, Interventional Cardiologist; Dr. Earl Mangin, Interventional Cardiologist; Dr. Tapan Rami, Electrophysiologist, and Dr. Mahesh Ramchandani; Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgeon.

Free Heart Smart Seminar and Screenings No one wants to think about the frightening possibility of facing a heart attack or a stroke. But if more people — family members, bystanders and the victims themselves — understood the warning signs better, they may help save more lives.

“Both a heart attack and a stroke can send warning signals hours, days, even weeks ahead of time,” says B. Keith Ellis, M.D., board certified interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Chest Pain Center. “Chest pain that’s triggered by exertion and relieved by rest may be an early predictor of a heart attack. In women, older adults and people with diabetes, symptoms may come and go, are

often vague and may not be recognized.”

Too many people wait too long to get help, and more damage is done with each passing minute. The good news is new clot-busting heart attack drugs administered within one hour can stop a heart attack in progress. Stroke medication can stop and even reverse brain damage if given within three hours. “If you suspect either a heart attack or a stroke, seek emergency care immediately,” says Dr. Ellis.

Methodist Sugar Land Hospital has demonstrated the highest level of expertise in treating heart attack patients.

Because of this expertise and delivery of care, Methodist Sugar Land Hospital has received Chest Pain Center Accreditation

from the National Society of Chest Pain Centers (SCPC). The SCPC evaluation focuses on adherence to the following criteria: • Reducing the time from onset of symptoms to diagnosis and treatment.

• Treating patients more quickly during the critical window of time when the heart muscle can be preserved.

• Monitoring patients when it is not certain that they are having a heart attack to ensure that they are not sent home too quickly or needlessly admitted to the hospital.

A key component of the hospital’s accreditation is the speed with which heart attack patients are treated with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in the Cath Lab. “PCI is critical to opening up the blocked artery and re-establishing blood flow,” says Dr. Ellis. “The quicker that we can identify patients who are having heart attacks, transport them to the Cath Lab and begin the PCI, the better chance we have of saving lives and limiting damage to the heart.”

To learn more about heart attack and stroke, please join us for a free Heart Smart Seminar & Screening on Thursday, February 23 from 6 – 8 p.m. at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital – Conference Center. To register, please call 281-2747500 or email SLRSVP@tmhs.org. Refreshments, door prizes and free screenings provided for those attending the seminar. Free screenings include a free blood pressure screening and a lab test gift certificate that includes testing for glucose and lipid profile including cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL, LDL, VLDL and risk calculation. H

National Wear Red Day® Celebration at the Fort Bend YMCA To help local women learn The Heart Truth®, The Fort Bend County Chapter of The Links, Incorporated is hosting a National Wear Red Day® Celebration at the Fort Bend YMCA on February 3, 2012 from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM and again from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM. Heart health literature will be available at both sessions.

National Wear Red Day is a day when Americans nationwide wear

red to show their support for women's heart disease awareness.

The Fort Bend County Chapter of The Links, Incorporated’s activities are in partnership with The Heart Truth, a national awareness campaign warning women about their risk of heart disease. The campaign is sponsored by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), U.S. Defort bend

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partment of Health and Human Services (HHS), in partnership with The Office on Women's Health (OWH) and other organizations committed to the health and well-being of women.

For more information about women and heart disease, including materials about women and heart disease, please visit http://www.hearttruth.gov or call the NHLBI Health Information Center at 301-592-8573. H

Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Celebrates New Services With Physician Office Staff Performance Achievement Award • Chest Pain Center Accreditation • National Committee for Quality Assurance for the Spine Center and their Surgeons “We enjoy attending these luncheons and finding out the latest and greatest about Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

Knowing this information allows us to be better informed for our physicians, office staff and our patients. It is wonderful to be a part of a hospital that is evolving and receiving many awards and accreditations. It was very important to learn about the recent stroke accreditations and the Chest Pain Center accreditation, a designation reserved for hospitals that demonstrate the highest level of expertise in treating heart attack patients,” said Peggy Ruiz with Diagnostic Cardiology of Houston. “Our physicians rest assured knowing our patients are receiving the best care with the latest state-of-the-art technology all in one convenient place and so close to home” “It was so exciting to hear that Methodist Sugar Land Hospital continues to bring leading-edge services home to our patients,” said Yasmine Santiago with Dr. Mickey Bush’s office. “Methodist Sugar Land Hospital has made it so much easier for our doctors and patients to access quality care in our community.”

For more information on Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, visit MethodistSugarLand.com or for a physician referral, call (281) 274-7500. H

Peggy Ruiz, Anna Ruiz, MA and Jennifer McCammon, RN.

Methodist Sugar Land Hospital (MSLH) celebrated another successful year of delivering Leading Medicine to the Fort Bend community by hosting a special luncheon for the often “unsung heroes” of medicine – office managers, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, medical assistants and other professionals who keep physician offices running smoothly and provide the first level of patient care.

More than 190 people attended the event, which included brief presentations on new Methodist Sugar Land Hospital services and innovative offerings for patients, physicians and the community, followed by a Q&A with hospital CEO Chris Siebenaler.

“Physician office staff members play a critical role in every patient’s treatment process,” Siebenaler said. “We are honored to celebrate the hospital’s leading technology and services and to share our excitement for the future with them.”

Office staff members were pleased to learn that MSLH continues to add services, including: • 6th floor expansion - Orthopedic and neurosurgery.

• 4 additional state-of-the-art operating rooms.

• A 4th MRI - The industry’s most powerful whole body 3 Tesla MRI technology that improves patient comfort.

• Robotics - da Vinci SI Surgical Ro-

Mayra Gaitan and Cintya Chavez.

bot to use real-time fluorescence imaging technology.

“We were pleased and excited to learn that Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is the first in the region to offer the groundbreaking technology—da Vinci® SI Surgical System—to our patients and the community we serve,” said Cintya Chavez with Dr. Henry Pham’s office.

“Not only will it further enhance MSLH’s established surgical robotics program, but it will also result in improved outcomes for our patients.”

Office staff members also learned about the recent accreditations and awards that MSLH has received, including: • Stroke Silver Plus Yasmine Santiago and Diana Buban. www.fortbend

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Memorial Hermann Acquires Richmond Bone & Joint Clinic Purchase Strengthens Hospital’s Orthopedic Presence In Southwest and West Corridors Memorial Hermann has acquired Richmond Bone & Joint Clinic (RBJ) in a move that further strengthens the organization’s orthopedic network and adds additional specialty clinics to its growing roster, as well as builds on the hospital’s groundbreaking clinical integration initiative to bring medical staff physicians together in a common commitment to quality care and accountability.

“As a hospital system, we are preparing for the onset of healthcare reform,” said Dan Wolterman, President and CEO of Memorial Hermann. “A critical component of that process is identifying physician groups that align with Memorial Hermann’s culture of emphasizing safety and providing the high quality care that our patients have come to expect.

“Memorial Hermann Medical Group has been strategically leading the way in identifying talented, respected and clinically-integrated physician groups like Richmond Bone & Joint Clinic,” Wolterman continued. “As a result, MHMG is experiencing tremendous growth. We are pleased to have a high-caliber group such as RBJ join the Memorial Hermann

family. It represents a win-win for both Memorial Hermann and our patients.”

RBJ, one of the most highly-regarded orthopedic groups in the Houston region, offers an extensive range of orthopedic specialties such as general orthopedics and sports medicine, pediatric orthopedics, spine surgery, hand and wrist and foot and ankle replacement, pain management, and rehabilitation. The group is comprised of physicians nationally known for contributing to advances in orthopedic medicine through published articles, research studies and innovative new treatments.

“This is a mutually-beneficial partnership,” said Juliet Breeze, M.D., CEO of RBJ. “We will bring our extensive clinical expertise and knowledge of orthopedic medicine to Memorial Hermann and help to grow its orthopedic presence, particularly in the southwest region near its Sugar Land and Southwest hospitals.

Moreover, we are aligning with one of the most innovative and clinically-integrated healthcare systems in the country. Our network of doctors and patients will benefit greatly being teamed with a system

Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Expands Surgical Robotics Program

John Boon, M.D. and Henry Pham, M.D. In 2010, Methodist Sugar Land Hospital (MSLH) was the first to bring robotic surgery to Fort Bend County, and recently, MSLH expanded on that technology with an upgrade to the da Vinci® SI Sur-

gical Robot which includes fluorescence imaging technology.

The da Vinci SI Surgical Robot allows surgeons to see and assess anatomy better than the naked eye, further enhancing the unmatched vision, precision and control of surgical robotics.

The robotic system is guided by a surgeon and uses a minimally invasive technique, which entails smaller incisions and less damage to surrounding tissue compared to traditional surgery. Surgeons are able to perform major surgeries through dime-sized incisions, which require only one or two stitches to close. As a result, patients can return to their normal activities in one to two weeks and are at much lower risk of developing infection. fort bend

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that is so forward-looking when it comes to medicine and quality care.”

More than 15 physicians at the newly named clinics – Richmond Bone & Joint Clinic at Memorial Hermann – will align with other Memorial Hermann affiliated physician groups like UTHealth’s Department of Orthopedic Surgery to deliver safe, high-quality and results-driven orthopedic care to patients living in and around Richmond, Katy and Sugar Land.

“Our patients will receive the same personal and progressive care they’ve come to expect from their trusted physicians and clinical staff,” added Dr. Breeze.

RBJ is already a member of the Memorial Hermann Information Exchange (MHiE), an innovative program that significantly improves transitions of care, safety and quality by putting patient health data at the fingertips of authorized caregivers. MHiE, the first health information exchange of its kind in Houston, utilizes a secure, encrypted electronic network to integrate and house patients’ digital medical records so they are easily accessible to its members. H

This new upgrade is instrumental in the treatment of renal tumors which may spare kidney cancer patients an increased risk of life-long dialysis. Using the recently acquired da Vinci SI Surgical System, Dr. John Boon and Dr. Henry Pham, board certified urologists on staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, can remove the tumor affecting the kidney and leave the healthy tissue. Patients can then often avoid the increased risk of organ failure that results from having a single healthy kidney.

“We are pleased to be the first in the region to offer this ground-breaking technology to our patients and the community we serve,” said Dr. Boon. “Not only will it further enhance our established surgical robotics program, but it will also result in improved outcomes for our patients.”

“Precision is the word that best summarizes surgical robotics,” said Dr. Pham. “With increased visibility, bet-

ter instruments and a highly-trained team, we can do the best job with the bonus of minimal disturbance to the rest of the body.”

Using sophisticated techniques and specialized tools such as fluorescence imaging and high definition monitors, surgeons in many specialties can perform major surgeries with the most accuracy possible. The surgeon’s skill, complemented by the robot’s precision, offers benefits to patients undergoing surgery in a growing number of specialties.

“This new acquisition complements our goal of extending minimally invasive surgery to the broadest possible base of patients,” said Becky Chalupa, Associate Chief Nursing Officer. “It can be used for a multitude of procedures, including, but not limited to: prostatectomy (removal of the prostate), nephrectomy (removal of the kidney), hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), myomectomy (removal of uterine fibroids), coronary artery bypass, mitral valve repair and colorectal surgery.”

“The robotics program is a continua-

tion of Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s commitment to bringing the medical center home to Fort Bend County, as well as finding and applying the most precise, most beneficial surgical techniques to put patients on a quicker road to recovery with better outcomes,” said Dr. Pham.

To make an appointment with Dr. Boon, Dr. Pham or other specialists using robotics technology, call Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s physician referral line 281-274-7500 or visit MethodistSugarLand.com. H

Methodist Sugar Land Spine Center Achieves National Recognition The Methodist Sugar “Methodist Sugar Land Spine Land Spine Center has been Center brings together a comrecognized for its delivery plete spinal care program in one of superior low back care by physical location, eliminating the the National Committee for time-consuming and frustrating Quality Assurance (NCQA), routine of multiple referrals and making it the first back pain appointments for patients who are center in the state to receive in pain,” said Dr. Bindal. “We are the honor. proud to receive this honor from The NCQA’s Back Pain Recthe NCQA because it validates ognition Program is designed to our patient-centric approach and commend physicians who demour commitment to delivering the onstrate that they meet specific highest quality medical care.” standards for the quality care Methodist Sugar Land Hosof patients with low back pain. pital CEO Chris Siebenaler Dr. John Park, Neurosurgeon; Dr. Rajesh Bindal, Neurosurgeon; The NCQA also individually said the Spine Center is leading Dr. Anthony Muffoletto, Orthopedic Spine Surgeon and Dr. Jeffrey Wood, Orthopedic Spine Surgeon. recognized the center’s physithe way for patients in the Fort cians, Dr. Rajesh Bindal, NeuBend and surrounding areas rosurgeon; Dr. Anthony Muffoletto, Orthat a “less is more” philosophy is the who need consistent, quality care for thopedic Spine Surgeon; Dr. John Park, right approach in treating low back pain,” low back pain.

Neurosurgeon and Dr. Jeffrey Wood, Orsaid O’Kane. “The Back Pain Recognition “Dr. Bindal and his colleagues, Dr. thopedic Spine Surgeon.

Program identifies physicians who avoid Muffoletto, Dr. Park and Dr. Wood – “For a person with back pain, the right needless imaging and procedures that along with all the staff who support the clinician can make the difference between don’t help patients.”

Spine Center – are helping our patients living with back pain, as opposed to sufMethodist Sugar Land Spine Center live more productive, higher quality lives fering from back pain,” said Margaret E. opened in the May of 2010, led by Dr. through their care and expertise,” SiebeO’Kane, President, NCQA. “By earning Bindal as medical director. naler said. “We are proud of the excelrecognition, the Methodist Sugar Land Dr. Bindal leads a multi-disciplinary lent work they are doing and especially Spine Center has demonstrated that the team of physicians and health care profespleased that their efforts are being recogcenter provides effective, evidence-based sionals from the full range of key spinal nized nationally.” care to its patients.” care specialties, including: The Spine Center is located on the The Back Pain Recognition Program • Imaging/diagnostics Methodist Sugar Land Hospital campus was developed to help clinicians and prac• Neuro radiology with easy access off Town Center Boultices support the delivery of high-quality • Neurology evard. For more information or to schedcare. The program is built on evidence• Neurosurgery ule an appointment at Methodist Sugar based, nationally recognized clinical • Orthopedic spine surgery Land Hospital’s Spine Center, please call standards. “Evidence-based guidelines • Pain management 281-313-BACK (2225) or email Spinehave shown in a number of instances • Physical medicine and rehabilitation Center@tmhs.org. H www.fortbend

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High School HOT SHOT

By Lauren Dante

Theodore Rodriguez: Musical Master “I learned that there is a time to work and a time to have fun, and you need to have both.” - T.J. Rodriguez

T

heodore Rodriguez, known to his friends as T.J., is a senior band member at Lamar Consolidated High School. T.J. became interested in band at a young age, and could not wait to one day be a member of the Mustang Marching Band. His wish came true, and T.J. became a member, and eventually a leader of the band.

When the Lamar band played at T.J.’s elementary school, he was mesmerized by their talent and immediately chose band as his first, and only choice, for a middle school elective. For his instrument, T.J. chose the alto saxophone. He originally wanted to play the trumpet, but his dad persuaded him to choose the saxophone because it sounded more “jazzy.” T.J. is grateful for his dad’s persuasion and cannot imagine playing another instrument.

Some of T.J.’s favorite saxophone players are Charlie Parker and Eric Marienthal because of their wonderful influences on jazz music.

As soon as T.J. became a freshman in High School, he immediately joined the band and started attending marching band practices. “Everyone in the saxophone section of the band was so welcoming, nice and friendly,” said T.J. “I quickly realized that the band was a giant family and we would all hang out together, even after practice was over.”

For the first football game, T.J. was

T.J.’s family posing together at the senior night football game. Pictured are father, Ted, sister Rabel, T.J. and mother, Gina.

e r o d o e Th

so excited to march on the field as a member of the Mustang Band. As only a freshman, T.J. was the 2nd chair in the top band, and his skills would only improve through the rest of his high school career.

T.J. thoroughly enjoyed his sophomore year of marching band as the band progressed to the Area Marching Competition and almost made it to the State Marching Competition. As a Section Leader for the saxophones and the 1st chair saxophone, T.J. qualified for the Region and Area band, which he would continue to qualify for during the remainder of his high school career.

Due to T.J.’s obvious talent, he became a Junior Drum Major for his junior year.

During his role as a Junior Drum Major, T.J. learned a lot about being a leader of his peers. “I knew that I had to be more responsible and set a good example with my actions,” said T.J. “I learned that there is a time to work and a time to have fun, and you need to have both.” T.J. was very successful as a Junior Drum Major and could not wait to try out for a Drum Major position for his senior year.

T.J. was appointed a Drum Major with two of his peers for his senior year. At the first football game of the season, T.J. was very nervous about leading the band and not just marching with the band. However, he was extremely proud to be a leading

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the band that he used to march with every week. The marching show was challenging, but the band placed in the top three at the Edna Marching Contest. T.J. learned that being a Drum Major is very different than marching, but he enjoys doing both. “I love to perform,” said T.J. “And performing on the football field, whether as a drum major or a marcher, is one of the greatest parts of being in band.”

The Mustang band received a huge honor this year as they were chosen to perform at Carnegie Hall. In April, the band will travel to New York to perform a concert at the venue. T.J. cannot believe that he will be performing at this incredible venue and is looking forward to traveling to New York in the spring.

In addition to his achievements with the band this year, T.J. qualified individually for the All Region Jazz band.

In his All State Jazz Tryout, T.J. was ranked #14.

Even though band keeps him busy, T.J is an honor student and ranked #28 in his class of 492 students. He is a member of the National Honor Society and will compete at the UIL competition for Computer Science in the spring. T.J. enjoys building computers and learning about computer systems.

Also, he works part-time at Panda Bistro as a driver.

In the future, T.J. would like to attend the University of Texas and major in Engineering. Eventually, he would like to work as an engineer in the Air Force or Navy. As a dedicated and respected leader by his peers as well as a hard-worker, we wish T.J. much success in the future. H

ATTENTION : Fort Bend High School Seniors

CONGRATULATIONS! Xiao Yu Anthia Liu

Congratulations to Xiao Yu Anthia Liu, a student at Trinity University and 2011 graduate of Stephen F. Austin High School, for being selected as Texas Direct Auto’s “Scholarship Star” for February! Frank Carranza, General Manager, presents the $1000 check. While attending Austin High School, Liu participated in various academic and extracurricular activities including National Honor Society, Speech and Debate, Spanish Club and Theater Club. Liu attends Trinity University where she studies Psychology and Film and Television Production. Liu was selected as part of Texas Direct Auto’s commitment to educational excellence through the “Scholarship Stars” program. Application details are listed below.

Register now and win a

1,000

$

SCHOLARSHIP! Find complete details and forms at

www.fortbendfocus.com

www.fortbend

.com • February 2012

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riendly

Fridge F

Display

Me

February 2012

1st WEDNESDAY 7:00 PM THE COASTAL PRAIRIE QUILT GUILD The Coastal Prairie Quilt Guild will host Jenalia Moreno as a guest speaker.

Jenalia is an award-winning Houston Chronicle reporter and is the director of the film Stitched which will be shown that night. For more information, visit cpqg.org.

3rd & 24th FRIDAY 9:30 AM FAITHFUL MOMS Faithful Moms is a Christian based organization of mothers who come together for fellowship, camaraderie and support in a safe, positive environment. At Faithful Moms, we provide childcare, crafts, guest speakers, food and an opportunity to build lasting relationships with other Christian mothers. Semester dues are $50. For more information, call 281-342-3437.

4th SATURDAY 9:00 AM -10:30 AM ROSE PRUNING WITH THE MASTER GARDENERS The general public and Master Gardeners are invited to participate in a “Hands-on Rose Pruning and Trimming Program.” Bring your pruners and gloves and learn how to care for your roses. Master Gardeners and Rose Rustlers will provide training. Rose Pruning training will be in front of the Bud O’Shieles Community Center located at 1330 Band Road, Rosenberg. For more information, call 281-341-7068 or visit www.fbmg.com.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Events, schedules and information may change without notice. Please refer to the event’s contact person or check the event’s website for more information.

11th SATURDAY 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM ANNUAL FRUIT AND CITRUS TREE SALE The Fort Bend Master Gardeners will hold their Annual Fruit and Citrus Tree Sale at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds - Barn H. For more information, call 281-341-7068 or visit www.fbmg.com.

11th SATURDAY 11:00 AM SUGAR CREEK GARDEN CLUB FRIENDSHIP LUNCHEON Sugar Creek Garden Club Friendship Luncheon, Auction and Raffle will be held at Sugar Creek Country at 11 am with the luncheon to follow the auction and raffle. There will be something for everyone including “Twilight” the clown for the children’s tables. For reservations or more information, call Connie Bingham, 281-494-5065.

11th SATURDAY 2:00 PM FORT BEND COUNTY LIBRARIES PRESENT BUFFALO SOLDIERS In recognition of Black History Month in February, Fort Bend County Libraries’ First Colony Branch Library will present a program on the Buffalo Soldiers and their role in American history. Dressed in a traditional Buffalo Soldiers’ uniform, a representative from the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum in Houston will present a brief film on the history of the Buffalo Soldiers. He will also read actual testimonies left by the soldiers themselves depicting their daily life. The program is free and open to the public.

For more information, call 281-238-2800.

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14th TUESDAY 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM THAT CRAZY LITTLE THING CALLED LOVE LECTURE What is love and why does it delight and confound us? Science writer Kayt Sukel will examine this age-old question using a neurobiological lens to delve into the intricate dance between the brain and our environment, shedding light on humanity’s oldest mystery. This unique experience includes the lecture, buffet dinner, wine service and author book signing. $45 members, $55 nonmembers, adult event only. Advanced ticket sales only. For more information, visit www. store.hmns.org.

17th FRIDAY 1:30 - 5:00 PM BLOOD DRIVE - GULF COAST REGIONAL BLOOD BANK Fort Bend Toyota is sponsoring a blood drive benefiting The Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center on February 17 from 1:30 - 5:00 PM at 20465 Southwest Freeway (Hwy 59 @ 99), Richmond. To schedule an appointment, visit www.giveblood.org and log on to Digital Donor. Please use sponsor code B240 or contact Nick Landoski at 281.341.5900.

18th SATURDAY 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM GATOR PALOOZA FAMILY FESTIVAL Sienna Crossing Elementary is hosting its annual Gator Palooza Family Festival! There are activities for everyoneinflatables, game booths, confetti eggs, Bingo, bake walk, golf cart rides, mechanical bull rides, silent auctions for fabulous items, and much, much more! Buy a delicious lunch or dessert from one of the food vendors and plan to spend the whole day at Sienna Crossing!

For more information, visit www.scepto.org.

Send your events via www.FortBendFocus.com.

Deadline for submission is on or before the 10th of the month for the next month’s publication.

All submissions are subject to the publisher’s approval, editing and space availability.

www.fortbendfocus.com

Sugar Land Town Square Events

11TH VALENT INE’S DA TE NIGH FEATUR T ING BIG BAND M SATURD USIC AY 7:00 P M– Dance an d romance 9:00 PM th live perfo rmance fr e night away! Enjo om high-e ya cians pla nergy mu ying a va siriety of B music as ig Band Fred A F instructor staire Dance Stud OF io s dance th OK roughout the ev O C PM ening in th and ILI e Plaza.

CH – 5:00 e chili deco S h 18t I GRA 00 PM ampl ve Zy ook 2: RD to s ish. Li the c e MA RDAY laza d or iv U e P vorite team f . Rece SAT to th 5 a m

e a$ .co er a ur f Com for yo regist @txcrn ts with o e vot sic. T ail info e ticke Fort mu , e-m ampl to the ow off ven s tion inb se dona nd Ra . e m B Roo

Community

CALENDAR Send Your Event

ONGOING WEEKLY EVENTS: 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd THURSDAYS 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM URBAN HARVEST FARMERS MARKET AT SUGAR LAND TOWN SQUARE Vendors will have a variety of fresh and local produce and other items available for purchase.

The market runs weekly. For more information, visit www.UrbanHarvest.org.

3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th FRIDAYS 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM FITNESS IN THE PLAZA Join us each Friday morning for Fitness in the Plaza featuring FREE Boot Camp with Jon Hood from Rush Fitness and Zumba with Abby Dvorsey! Boot Camp from 9 – 10 a.m. followed by Zumba from 10 – 11 a.m.

Submit your request and get the next issue of Fort Bend Focus delivered to your mailbox!

Get your copy - Subscribe Now

Go to www.FortBendFocus.com and request a FREE Subscription.

-OR-

Fort Bend Focus Magazine wants to provide readers with the best community feature magazine possible. We want to focus on our READERS and mail exclusively to residents who invite us into their home. Requests are FREE to all Fort Bend & Katy addresses*.

Name:____________________________________________________ Address:__________________________________________________ City: ________________________________ Zip: _________________ Signature: _________________________________________________ Request Date: _____________________________________________ E-mail: ___________________________________________________

12 issues a yearDelivered Free!

Mail completed form to: 4655 Techniplex Dr., Ste 400, Stafford, TX 77477 * Annual paid subscription required outside the Fort Bend or Katy areas. Call 281-690-4242. www.fortbend

.com • February 2012

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Fort Bend Kids ChalkBoard The published photos came from Press Releases submitted to Fort Bend Focus by the schools/organizations of these children.

Fort Bend County Alumnae Panhellenic is preparing for its annual Sorority Recruitment Workshop for girls who are high school seniors or collegiates and their parents, held at Christ United Methodist Church, 3300 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land on Saturday, February 25 from 10am to Noon.

Pictured are collegiates who have benefited from the workshop. (Top row) Kaitlyn Engle, Texas A & M University, Delta Delta Delta; Taylor Nielson, University of Alabama, Alpha Gamma Delta; Hannah Mougel, University of Kansas, Delta Gamma; Haley Ostrander, Texas Tech University, Chi Omega; Shannon Profy, University of Alabama, Phi Mu; Kayliegh Wong, Texas State, Zeta Tau Alpha; Megan Greene, University of Georgia, Delta Zeta and Eryn Roche, Oklahoma University, Pi Beta Phi.

Please Note : Submitted news must include complete captions, including names, to be considered for publishing.

Seventh and eighth grade students from Briscoe Junior High competed in a Spelling Bee. The winners are: Devin Lemaster‚ Runner-Up; Mikel Jopio‚ 1st Place and Elaine Tee, 2nd Place.

Fort Bend Christian Academy Varsity Lady Eagles played at the Toyota Center in Houston on January 14th. Pictured are (first row) Julia Tape, Brianna Mahan, Claire Mills, Clara Pardue, Michelle Forbert and Briana LaChapelle.

Coach Cieara Watts, Manager Shirley Zhang, Kassidi Kaminski, Sarah Amend, Morgan Urich, Jennifer Andersen, Maggie Mantel, Bailey Wood, Leah Dibble, Lexy Sanford, Dilora Ezenwukwa, Lillian Reed, Trainer Leslie Humphries, Emily Wilkins and Katie Dibble. Back row Coaches Brad Simmons and Jon Froelich.

Lamar Consolidated High School senior Morgan Pierce received a $500 scholarship from Eric Edmunds of The Edmunds Foundation. Pierce qualified for the scholarship by writing an essay about Nanotechnology. She plans to major in Psychology at either Texas A&M University or Texas Tech University. Pictured are Eric Edmunds and Morgan Pierce.

Foster High School’s Art Show winners show off their work. Pictured are (front row) Lauren Millard, Alessandra Jara, Christy Beltz, Christina Zhang, Jolie Peloquin; Fariha Rashid, Annie Morelli, Lamar CISD Superintendent Dr. Thomas Randle, Janet Ajasa, Jose Galicia, Kelsei Wright, Lamar CISD Director of Fine Arts Ram Estrada, Jennifer Eaves, Natalie Parsons.

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!

DI N I N G O U T | RESTAURANT PROFILES | LOCAL RECI P E S

absolutely

Delicious

D I N I N G G U I D E TO FORT BEND RESTAURANTS

F E AT U R I N G

Ray’s Gour m e t Countr y

R E S TA U R A NT REVIEW

FROM THE FARM TO THE TABLE,

Ray’s Incorporates Fresh, Local Ingredients

By Claudia Richter

Ray’s Gourmet Country 8502 FM 359 Fulshear, TX 77441 281.533.0099

K

nown for their signature fresh game dishes and perfectly prepared fish, the philosophy at Ray’s is to let the natural flavors of the food shine without overly complicated preparations and heavy sauces.

By using fresh, locally grown ingredients whenever possible, the menu at Ray’s Gourmet Country has an extensive selection of sophisticated choices that include customer favorites, seasonal specialties and new creations.

Chef Soren Pedersen has been at Ray’s since it opened four years ago. Trained in his native Denmark, he has acquired a following of diners from Fulshear and the greater Houston area who appreciate his organic take on cuisine. For him, there is no satisfaction greater than a busy night when everything clicks, and he has a dining room full of happy people.

The atmosphere at Ray’s is comfortable, both casual Soren Pedersen is the Danish-born chef that opened and dressy, depending on the with Ray Salti four years ago.

fort bend

The atmosphere at Ray’s is comfortable, both casual and dressy, depending on the occasion, and exudes a friendly, neighborhood feel that keeps folks wanting to stay put for a really enjoyable experience.

occasion, and exudes a friendly, neighborhood feel that keeps folks wanting to stay put for a really enjoyable experience.

This formula has translated into much success for Ray’s as people are becoming more conscious of the environment and where their food is coming from. I have tried numerous dishes at Ray’s and found the food to be exceptionally flavorful and masterfully prepared. I was especially enamored with an exquisite rhubarb tart that I will be watching for Chef Pedersen to include on the menu again. Ray Salti is also a congenial host and makes you feel welcome in his restaurant.

On my last visit, I noticed a wonderful selection of

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SEAFOOD

!

DINING OUT | RESTAURANT PROFILES | LOCAL RECIPES

Blu Water Fish Market 6127 Hwy 6, Missouri City 281-969-8431

We’re serving up a boatload of sensational sandwiches, big and tasty tacos, savory salads, and rockin’ rice bowls. Here, you’re the captain.

Create the entrée you crave and pair it with one of our sweet or spicy sauces. Come discover a new kind of fresh, fast, and affordable seafood restaurant today. Visit www. bluwaterfishmarket.com.

absolutely

Delicious

DINING GUIDE TO FORT BEND RESTAURANTS

F E AT U R I N G Restaurant Reviews, Local Recipes and Feature Stories on some of Fort Bend’s Finest Dining Establishments

Diners enjoying the natural, farm fresh goods at Ray’s Gourmet Country.

Valentine’s Day choices. I would recommend the Lobster Bisque with White Truffle Crème Fraiche or the Frisee and Radicchio Salad with Ray’s own Ceasar dressing and caviar to start, and the Filet Mignon on Wild Mushroom Risotto and Dried Cherry Demi-Glace for my entrée. The other entree that caught my eye was the Gulf Snapper on Lobster Mashed Potatoes with Gala Apple Slaw and Chive Butter Sauce. The sides all sound wonderful. They include: House Fries with Black Lava Salt, White Truffle Macaroni and Cheese, Grilled Asparagus with Shaved Asiago, and Butter Steamed local Broccoli. Of course, on special occasions the dessert is just as important as the main course.

You might try the White Chocolate Souffle, OrangePecan Tart with Sweet Crème Fraiche and Caramel or a Symphony of Strawberries in a variety of Belgium Chocolates. There is also a Prefix menu to consider.

Just knowing that the fish you are eating was not farm-raised, and the chicken and other meats and vegetable come from a local farmer’s market add a great component to feeling satisfied that you got a great meal for a great value. I also love the little drive to the country to get to Ray’s and the quaint, quiet atmosphere of the neighborhood in Fulshear. H www.fortbend

Each advertiser in the Dining Guide receives a FREE LISTING with your Logo and a 60 word story in each issue.

To Advertise, Call 281-690-4242

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Persistence t o N

Perfection

By Jason Hodge

I

t doesn’t take long for us to fall off the bandwagon of trying to get in shape. It’s tempting to try, fail, and then give up. After all, we didn’t live up to our own expectations, but your expectations may have been unrealistic.

Having goals and working hard to achieve them is a great thing, but often times, our body doesn’t do what we expect it to do.

People do not accidently get in shape.

The Big Picture Most people tend to look at New Year’s Resolutions as a one-time, succeed or fail type goal. Either we do perfect (never skipping a workout, losing 3 pounds a week, fitting in to our skinny jeans in a month, etc…) or we give up hope. The biggest problem with this mindset is that it never really has a chance to succeed.

It’s the equivalent of two people entering a marriage thinking they will never have an argument. The road to a successful marriage contains good days and bad days too, and achieving a healthy body and lifestyle is not much different. Sometimes you will win, and sometimes you will lose, but the key to success is how many times you are willing to get back up and try again.

Relentlessly Persistent When pursuing your ideal body and lifestyle, you simply cannot give up trying. It’s not a choice. The people who achieve the results you are after do not allow “giving up” to be an option. The moment you entertain the idea of quitting, you’ve already lost. The battle you are facing is not physical; it is mental. If you can win this mental battle, the body will eventually be forced to change. You

may have an off week, a tragic life circumstance, or maybe even an injury, but when you are relentlessly persistent, you will get back on track the first chance you get. The reason most people give up is because they are heading down a dead end road, but they didn’t realize failure was inevitable. Do not let that prevent you from trying though, because there are some things that you can look for to make sure you are on the right track.

The Essentials There are thousands of different things that are promoted as “healthy,” so make sure you choose wisely.

Long Term vs. Short Term Remember that achieving a healthy body and lifestyle is a gradual progression. While things that promise short cuts can be tempting, the reality is that it often leads to failure in the long term.

Achieving and then keeping results is as much mental as it is physical. Practicing willpower and learning how to overcome obstacles is just as important as learning how to exercise properly. Without this physical and mental foundation it will be very difficult to achieve the body you want over the long term. fort bend

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Balance Your program should have a healthy balance of exercise and nutrition. Any program that promises that you can do just exercise, a pill, or a special diet and not worry about anything else is sure to be a dead end road. Your program should either include exercise and nutrition or prepare you to have both components as a part of your long term strategy. Your program needs balance for long term success.

Structure People do not accidently get in shape. Any good game plan will be consistently progressive over time. If you are just randomly doing things or jumping from one diet to another, you will never make progress. Any good plan involves something you can stick with for the long term.

If you’ve already burned out from your New Years’ Resolution or have a history of burning out, put this article in a place where you can keep re-reading it. There was a reason you decided to lose weight at first, remember? Don’t give up! This is a daily battle that you can win with persistence. H

FIND YOUR NEXT CAR Search new and used car inventories online - easy, simple, fast

Scan with your smart phone to launch website See some of the ads in print in the Star every week. www.fortbend

.com • February 2012

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FOCUS FAVORITES... Your Community Resource Guide Accounting & Bookkeeping Books With Integrity 281-978-6916 www.bookswithintegrity.net Sandra@bookswithintegrity.net Assisting small businesses with bookkeeping & payroll. Services range from onsite training to fullcharge bookkeeping. Have your receipts or Excel data turned it into a valuable resource for your business. Already have a set of books? We can ensure they are set up properly. Using QuickBooks?

Let us assist you with utilizing all the software features available to optimize your bookkeeping process. We provide accuracy, professionalism & enthusiasm, allowing you to focus on big-picture issues. (07/2012)

Acupuncture LIFEnhance Acupuncture Clinic 713-661-8822 www.acupuncturetx.net www.lifenhanceclinic.com wendy4chz@yahoo.com Health insurances accepted. Our clinical services include acupuncture, acupressure, massage, evidence-based botanical medicine, dietary supplements, and special diets. We treat: Headaches (Migraine, Facial, Sinus, Muscle Pain, Trigeminal Neuralgia), Neck Pain, Shoulder Pain, Back Pain, Joint Pain, Chronic Pain due to Trauma, Bell’s Palsy, Infertility (IVF/IUI) Support, Menopause, Cancer Support, Stress/Depression, and Weight Management. We accept many health insurances. (05/2012)

Advertising/Printing/Graphics Focus On Women Magazine 281-690-4242 www.fowmag.com lisa@fortbendfocus.com Finally, the magazine that you have been waiting for. A new publication showcasing one of the best and brightest resources – our women. Full of interesting, thought-provoking stories. Focus on Women is a celebration of today’s women – their lives, their passions and their spirit. (10/2010)

Children Sports/Gymnastics, Tumbling & Cheer GYMTEX Gymnastics & Cheerleading Inc 832-876-9888 www.GymtexGym.com gymtex@gmail.com One free morning gymnastics class for new students

10 months to 5 years old. Call to reserve a spot! Ten years in Fort Bend has allowed GYMTEX to provide families with children ages 3 to 18 quality gymnastics and cheerleading training in a safe, fun and clean environment. Not only does GYMTEX produce state champions, but they build your child’s character! Take advantage of Olympic caliber gymnastics equipment, an indoor rock wall, rope-net climbs, 40 foot trampoline and a giant foam block pit and more! Change your child’s life today with classes at GYMTEX and produce a champion for life! (06/2012)

Dentistry Texas Urban Smile 281-277-1545 www.texasurbansmile.com sara@texasurbansmile.com We care for your dental, oral health and beauty. To help you smile, we use top-of-the-line digital, low radiation x-rays, intraoral cameras, and much more.

We have practiced general, cosmetic, implant and orthodontic dentistry for over 20 years. For your satisfaction, we offer a free consultation, $299 Zoom Whitening, $999 Bicon Short Implants, $2400 Invisible Braces and much more. Don’t wait! These deals will end soon. Call us and talk to one of our friendly staff and make an appointment today. (02/2011)

Estate Planning and Probate Andreason Law Firm 281-265-1561 www.andreasonlawfirm.com kurtandreason@andreasonlawfirm.com With over 25 years experience in Texas, Kurt M. Andreason can meet your estate planning needs with everything from basic wills and disability planning documents to sophisticated estate planning strategies, including family limited partnerships, life insurance trusts and other recognized methods of estate tax reduction. Convenient Sugar Land location. Handicap Accessible. Board Certified in Estate Planning, Probate Law and Commercial Real Estate. Listed over 10 years in Best Lawyers in America. (11/2010)

Finance/Wealth Management Hardee Investment Group 713-853-0879 www.HardeeInvestmentGroup.com HardeeInvestmentGroup@rbc.com With over 85 years of collective experience, the Hardee Investment Group is your ultimate financial planning resource. Our team is comprised, of five diversified professionals, working primarily with family wealth and businesses up to $100 million. Our Group has been awarded national recog-

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nition by RBC Wealth Management, the National Association of Board Certified Advisory Practices, the Houston Business Journal and Barron’s, a sister publication to the Wall Street Journal, for our award winning service and advice. (10/2011)

Horseback Riding Sienna Stables 281-778-7433 www.siennastables.com The premier Southwest Houston area Equestrian Facility offers horseback riding lessons for youth and adults in both English or Western styles.

Other activities include kids’ camps, birthday parties, special events and therapeutic riding. For the horse owner, horses can be boarded and or trained by professionals. Sienna Stables also hosts many styles of horse shows. Nestled among centuriesold shade trees in Sienna Plantation this little slice of heaven is conveniently located in Fort Bend. (11/2010)

Jewelry Designs In Gems® 713-995-7975 www.designsingems.com brucejsnider@hotmail.com Custom Designs - Hand Made Jewelry by Designs In Gems® since 1984. “Distinctive originals redesigned from your sentimental existing gold and stones.... We make the next generation’s keepsakes.” Custom Jewelry Designer - Bruce J. Snider M.S., G.G.- GIA. Gemological Laboratory Appraisals. Graduate Gemologist - Gemological Institute of America. Listed: Jewelers Board of Trade, Member: BBB. 16180 City Walk (Town Square - Sugar Land) by appointment. (11/2010) J Loggins Jewelers 281-242-2900 www.jloggins.com For all of your jewelry needs. Come view a large selection of beautiful pieces by various designers. Expertise in original design and construction with an emphasis on providing the best in quality and value sets J Loggins Jewelers apart from all of the rest. Take advantage of the wide array of services including simple solders, repairs in all precious metals, repairs of some fashion and base metals, heirloom restorations, makeovers, engraving, watch battery replacement, restringing and appraisals. (05/2012)

To advertise, go to www.fortbendfocus.com and click on “Focus Favorites.”

FOCUS FAVORITES... Your Community Resource Guide Marketing & Advertising The Marketing Department 281-277-7272 www.tmdtexas.com hspencer@tmdmainstreet.com cspencer@tmdmainstreet.com TMD is a friendly retail environment where small business owners can shop for affordable marketing ideas to help grow their business. The owners, Howard and Christie Spencer, will take the time to get to know you and understand your business - at absolutely no cost to you. This free consultation results in customized marketing strategies designed to fit your needs and budget. We’ll help you sell more -- to more people, more often, for more money! (03/2011)

Medical Services Synicare Medical 281.378.8040 • Fax: 888.397.1240 synicaremedical.com synicaremedical@yahoo.com Synicare Medical is focused on providing highquality service and customer satisfaction - we will do everything we can to meet your expectations.

We specialize in durable medical equipment and medical supplies. We accept all private insurance and strive to meet the needs of every patient in a professional and caring way. If there are any comments or questions, please feel free to contact us.

(12/2011)

Orthodontics Pisklak Orthodontics 281-403-5599 www.pisklakorthodontics.com info@pisklakorthodontics.com Carrie W. Pisklak, DDS, MS, is a respected provider of orthodontic care in your community. Located in Missouri City, Texas, the practice’s top priority is to provide you the highest quality orthodontic care in a friendly, comfortable environment. Dr. Pisklak utilizes the latest technological advances, such as clear braces and Invisalign Teen, along with the latest in computer technology to ensure that you receive the most effective care possible. (10/2010)

Pediatrics MedCare Pediatric Group, LP 713-995-9292 www.medcarepediatrics.com info@medcarepediatrics.com MedCare has been providing quality healthcare services to area families since 1991. Our mission is to enhance the lives of children, and our dedi-

cated team carries out this vision with the utmost care & compassion. In addition to our caring team, MedCare reaches out to families in the community through our non-profit foundation, MedCare Milestones. Our MedCare services include Home Health Nursing & Therapy, and 3 Outpatient Rehab facilities located in Stafford, Northshore, & Spring. (01/2013)

Pest Control/Exterminator Integrated Pest Management Inc. 281-341-1761 Fax 832-451-1949 www.integratedpest.biz ipmi@comcast.net Locally owned and operated servicing Fort Bend County for 29 years, Integrated Pest Management’s knowledge and friendly staff can answer all of your pest questions. A convenient retail store located on Hwy. 90 next to the Women’s Center retail store, we are open Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. Stop by to check out our collection of snakes, exotic bugs and rodents. Save money by purchasing the materials yourself and let us educate you on how to apply them. Better yet, let us do the job for you. Thanks, Bob, Frank, Shirley, Daniel and Phil. (03/2011)

Podiatry and Cosmetic Elite FootCare of Texas, Inc. 832-539-1620 www.elites-of-texas.com admin@elites-of-texas.com Podiatric & cosmetic medical facility providing advanced foot/ankle care in a compassionate & caring environment, located in Fort Bend. Dr. Shepherd will make sure you are comfortable, satisfied & well-informed about your healthcare through the diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Services include general & cosmetic foot care, with treatments to make feet comfortable and beautiful such as: foot facials/spa and detox, toe nail bleach, treating hyperhydrosis (sweaty feet) and Stiletto Rx (high heel comfort). (03/2011)

Resale Shops PennyWise Resale Centers Benefitting Fort Bend County Women’s Center 281-344-5770 www.fortbendwomenscenter.org Are your closets and home overfilled with unwanted, usable items? Declutter your home and donate your lightly used home furniture, housewares, clothing, appliances, computers and electronics, shoes and jewelry. We accept everything from jeans to wedding gowns and designer wear.

PennyWise Resale stores (Richmond, Stafford and

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Mission Bend) depend on the community’s generous donations, and all proceeds assist survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault and their children. Shop for unbelievable savings. (09/2011)

Roofing Ameristar Roofing 281-238-4230 www.ameristarroofing.com ameristarroofing@gmail.com Ameristar Roofing is your full service roofing company, No job is too small or too big. We are a certified “Shingle Master Co” with Certainteed which authorizes us to offer 3, 4 & 5 star extended warranties. We are fully insured and bonded for your safety. At the end of every job we perform a QUALITY CONTROL INSPECTION. Our company belief is, THE CUSTOMER IS ALWAYS RIGHT. We want your recommendation because of our reputation! THANKS, JOE RANGEL, REUBEN STAFFORD & JOHN YATES, MANAGING PARTNERS. (10/2010)

Transportation The Original Trolley & Limousine Company 281-491-4911 www.originaltrolley.com otrolley@comcast.net The Original Trolley Company brings back a sense of nostalgia for groups who are looking for a truly unique transportation experience. The Trolley Company presently has three trolley cars ready for hire. The Trolleys are fully air conditioned and heated, mahogany trimmed, bar set up accommodations and have a trolley brass bell.

Visit our website at www.originaltrolley.com to view our large gallery of photos. If a trolley is too large for your group, we have added a 120 inch stretch Limousine. (10/2010)

Vacation Rio Raton Duplex 832-788-2294 www.rioratonduplex.com New Braunfels - Guadalupe Riverfront on River Rd. (outside New Braunfels city limits). First-Class riverfront duplex. Minutes to Schlitterbahn or tube the Guadalupe.

Also convenient to Fiesta Texas, Sea World, Gruene Hall, Natural Bridge Cavern and Canyon Lake. 2 units available - each unit sleeps 8. See pictures and rates, and email your dates from webpage. (10/2010)

By Alisa Murray www.AlisaMurray.com Nationally recognized portrait artist and award-winning columnist.

Living the Sweet Life:

Come Meet my Dream Team and Be Fabulous in 2012!

Inspire Fitness Four workouts and a BMI assessment Lisa Geisler Three hours of organizing and planning

W

ell y’all, it’s February again, and guess what? It’s my birthday! Over the past few years, many of my readers and clients out in Sugar Land have asked me who do you use for this or that, and even more have asked how do you do all of that! LOL! I started thinking about what a wonderful way to share what I call my Dream Team and include you in 2012 happenings. I decided to throw a birthday party for me!

Well, it’s really for you, though, because as I contacted all of my posse, every single one of them were eager to meet my readers, share what they do and offer all sorts of free goodies to you for attending!

I have gathered my Dream Team: they are all professionals that range from fitness and beauty to medical doctors and business builders ... from those that lift my spirits and even my chest line! Each one of these wonderful friends and colleagues continues to improve my life, and I want to introduce you to them. I also want you to visit my studio. I have been shooting for years in our community and began painting again last year. Many of you read the column each month, and every one of you needs portraits of your family or commissioned art for your home. There are countless clients that first found me as a reader of this column and then, picked up the phone and called me for a session.

I want to become your portrait artist, and I want you to meet me and see the work that I have dedicated my life to creating.

I am excited because this year is going to be amazing! Throughout this year, I am challenging myself to be the best me I can be in all areas. I am working out, I am allowing for down time to just think and be a mother, and I am grateful. I want to share that journey with each of you and allow you to share with me your experiences as well. Throughout this

Here’s a sneak peek at what I have in store for you!

Laila Narsi TheMindfulself.com Sarah Lindstrom Stella and Dot jewelry Renew Laser Complimentary peels and Beauty for all attendees Milagro Complimentary cut and color Summer Sanford Image consulting and closet organizing Bodies by ATUN 3 laser hair removals for all attendees Alicia Garza Spring trend demos in creating the most current eyes and lips year, I will be inviting you to events and lectures that will inspire you and help you develop yourself.

In addition, I will be hosting my own show on YouTube and featuring a blog that documents my work. I will be hosting a series of lectures in our Montrose studio and our home studio in Sugar Land that offer opportunities for you to create your Sweet Life in 2012! There will be art shows and coffee talks where we gather to intimately discuss marketing and business strategies, and I will assist you in developing the best you!

The party is where it all begins on February 24 from 2:00 until 6:00 pm at my home studio. Please call 713-5982207 or Facebook me, Alisa Murray, and let me know you will be attending. There are over $1000 worth of fabulous items in swag bags for every attendee in addition to door prizes that are over the top!

Rocco Prostar Creative consultation in finding the true you Magnolia Nails Complimentary and Spa eyebrow waxing and mani/pedi’s Dr. Shel Wellness $100 off HCG and IPL & Medical Spa Skin Rejuvenation/ Laser Facials Ana Vasquez Mineral makeup and Glycolic peels Linda Lopez One hour massage The Design Consultation and Source showroom specialty pricing Focus on Women Complimentary copy Magazine of the latest issue Lake Pointe Dental Complimentary ZOOM teeth whitening JCD Financial 50% off tax return/ Services, Inc. complimentary month with a signed contract The Body Elite Complimentary two week bootie camp

Take Care of You!

Alisa Murray $200 gift certificate to every attendee plus a $500 photo package and frames fort bend

magazine • February 2012

80

MARCH 3-4 & 10-11 11 A.M. - 4 P.M.

Think outside the ordinary model home showcase.

Spring is in full swing at Aliana, with the grand opening of our brand new Model Home Village, featuring a showcase of new floor plans, finishes and exciting ideas for outdoor living. The area’s top builders have saved their biggest surprises for the backyards, each handcrafted in an elaborate theme – for everything from summer cookouts to alfresco entertaining. Enjoy the free food, 290 45 59 giveaways and fun for the whole family.

6

10 Grand Parkway

N 64 FM 14

6

610

10

Downtown Houston

59

llway Westpark To Clodine Rd.

Harlem

99

The Galleria

288

610

59

W. Bellfort

W. Airport Road

SUGAR LAND

90

RICHMOND 90 99

Sam Houston Tollway

59

288

The Model Home Village is located on W. Airport Blvd. at the Grand Parkway.

As with any financial decision, buyers are encouraged to do their own due diligence when selecting a home builder. Homes in the Aliana Community are constructed and sold by home building companies (“Builders”) not affiliated with Aliana Development Company, the developer of such community or the developer’s affiliated companies (collectively, “Developer”). Developer does not guarantee or warrant the obligations of, or construction by, such Builders, or the availability or pricing of homes. Prices, specifications and details concerning homes are established by the builders and are subject to change without notice. All drawings are preliminary and subject to change, and are for presentation purposes only. Further, said drawings are scanned images only and are not for computation or construction purposes. These drawings may or may not incorporate information and/or data provided to consultants relative to engineering and drainage, flood plains and environmental issues and should not be relied upon for any purpose. No warranties, expressed or implied, concerning the actual design, location, and character of the facilities shown on any maps are tended. Additionally, no warranty is made to the accuracy of the information contained herein. Copyright 2012 Aliana Development Company. All rights reserved. “ALIANA” and “Handcrafted for Living” are trademarks of Aliana Development Company. Information last updated 1/12/12.

For a list of events and prizes, visit

alianahouston.com

Home is where the Heart is...

JOIN US FOR A HEART SMART SEMINAR RIGHT HERE AT HOME FORT BEND COUNTY

Our panel of heart experts includes: Dr. Imran Mohiuddin Vascular Surgeon

Dr. Sherman Tang

Interventional Cardiologist

Dr. Kesavan Shan

Diagnostic Cardiologist

Dr. Uttam Tripathy

Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgeon

Dr. B. Keith Ellis - Moderator Interventional Cardiologist

Dr. Earl Mangin

Interventional Cardiologist

Dr. Tapan Rami

Electrophysiologist

Dr. Mahesh Ramchandani

Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgeon



Methodist Sugar Land Hospital

YOUR HEART HEALTH BELONGS WITH METHODIST SUGAR LAND HOSPITAL When it comes to matters of the heart, you don’t need to travel far to receive the best heart care in the area. All the services you need are right here at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. Our highly skilled doctors use state-of-the-art technology and surgical techniques, so you can get back to what really matters. Trust your heart to the experts at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital — your home for cardiac care.

Come meet our panel of multispecialty doctors who will discuss: • Heart disease • Signs and symptoms of a heart attack • The importance of seeking treatment right away when having a heart attack • State-of-the-art technology and surgical techniques at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital

HEART SMART SEMINAR Thursday, February 23, 2012  6-8 p.m.

Methodist Sugar Land Hospital - Conference Center To register: call 281-274-7500 or email SLRSVP@tmhs.org Refreshments  Door prizes

FREE SCREENINGS FOR THOSE ATTENDING:  Cholesterol/glucose lab test gift certificate  Free blood pressure screening

16655 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, Texas 77479