August 2014 - Fort Bend Focus Magazine - People • Places • Happenings

AUGUST 2014

Ready, Set, Graduate!

A Chautauqua Talk Sugar Land Mayor

BILL LITTLE

Back to School

Labor Day GETAWAYS + absolutely! $2.95

Finest in Medicine

Sugar Land Med-Ped

EXCELLENCE IN PRIMARY CARE Our mission is to provide total family health care in a friendly, caring setting.

Sugar Land Med-Ped Clinic strives to provide complete family care for newborns, children, adolescents, adult and geriatric care. We are a full service primary care facility located in the heart of Sugar Land since 1992.

Our philosophy of “putting our patients first” and “continuity of care” means that we will always strive to get you into the office as soon as possible to see the doctor in case of sickness and that our doctor continues to follow his patients on admission into the hospital, should the need arise, as well as throughout their stay. This ensures coordinated monitoring of your health at all times, be it newborn hospital visits, normal developmental well baby checks, post ER follow ups, annual adult physicals or geriatric acute care in long term facilities.

281.491.2555

3533 Town Center Blvd. South, Ste # 100, Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.Sugarlandmedped.com

SERVICES OFFERED

Sugar Land Med-Ped

Complete Physicals Women’s Health Care Pediatric Well Checks Sports Medicine Minor Office Surgery Weight Management School & Summer Camp Examinations Traveler’s Advice Immunization

Subodh Bhuchar, MD Dr. Subodh Bhuchar is Board certified by the American Board of Family Practice as well as the American Board of Pediatrics.

He has been in practice in the Sugar Land area since 1992. He moved here after completing his residency in Pediatrics in New York, NY at North Shore University Hospital, a Cornell University affiliate program, and his Family Practice residency in Lubbock, TX at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. He is affiliated with all of the area hospitals, including Memorial Hermann Sugar Land, Methodist Hospital Sugar Land, Kindred Hospital Sugar Land and Memorial Hermann Southwest.

Dr. Bhuchar has served as Chief of Staff and Chief Medical Officer of Kindred Hospital Sugar Land. From 2002 to 2003, he served as Chief of Staff at Memorial Hermann Fort Bend and Medical Director of the In-Patient Care team.

He also serves as Director of Physician Networks for Memorial Hermann Sugar Land and as an advisor on various hospital committees.

An outstanding physician, Dr. Bhuchar has been recognized often with several awards ranging from Chief Resident and Resident Phy-

sician of the Year during his Family Practice residency, Physician of the Year at Memorial Hermann Fort Bend, to Best Physician Communicator, and Best Bedside Manner at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land.

Dr. Bhuchar believes in sharing his knowledge and inspiring young individuals who wish to pursue a medical career. Towards that goal, he provides mentorship and is also a preceptor to medical students and nurse practitioner students from the University of Texas Medical School and the Baylor College of Medicine. He has served in a leadership capacity on many non-profit organizations, serving as the President of the Indian Doctors Association, Fort Bend Medical Society and the Indo American Charity Foundation.

Once a week, Dr. Bhuchar also conducts a radio talk show on AM radio called Open Forum. He has also served on the Board of Directors of Fort Bend Cares and the Indo American Forum, non-profit organizations, serving underprivileged and underserved populations in Fort Bend. He resides in Sugar Land with his wife Sonal Bhuchar and has three grown children.

Nina Ali, MS, FNP-C As a family nurse practitioner, Nina Ali collaborates with the staff at Sugar Land Med-Ped Clinic to provide efficient and individualized patient care. She helps patients manage acute and chronic illnesses by conducting physical exams, performing diagnostic procedures and prescribing medication. Additionally, Nina educates patients on illnesses and practical measures they can take for overall well-being.

Sugar Land Med-Ped’s Caring and Friendly Staff

Make sure your child’s immunization record is updated for this upcoming school year.

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW!

Azenett Alvarez, Nicki Sanchez, Rosa Ayala, Inez Luera and Ivette Sanchez.

Sugar Land Med-Ped Clinic has a very well-qualified staff of front office personnel, nursing, billing and insurance specialists, all of whom come together to make your visit to the doctor a simple and pleasant process.

Front Office Personnel greet you upon check-in, verify your insurance coverage as accurately as possible and help you check-out with follow-up appointments, school and work notes, lab requisitions, results and/or referral issues.

Nursing Staff help you get ready for the doctor, record your vital signs, give immunizations and assist in nursing care. They also assist with referrals to specialists and follow up on lab and test results.

The Billing Office is in house and most issues can be resolved expediently with our billing specialist, who can also set up payment plans and help clarify insurance problems.

Our Physicians are highly qualified and together have more than 20 years of experience in Pediatrics and Family Medicine. They are committed to providing the best possible care, both as outpatients and inpatients.

Our staff knows our patients and their needs well. We have watched our families grow over the years. We work hard to ensure a high level of medical care.

INSURANCES ACCEPTED We accept most major insurances.

We are happy to care for our elderly and accept Medicare.

281.491.2555

3533 Town Center Blvd. South, Ste # 100, Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.Sugarlandmedped.com

Certified for excellence in diabetes management.

CALL US FOR INFORMATION ON WEIGHT MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS.

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ENDORSED: by the American Medical Association.

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ENDORSED: by United States Pharmacopeia (USP).

EXPERIENCE: Our staff is ACPE-accredited in primary basic training in compounding techniques in compliance with USP <795>.

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EXPERIENCE: Our pharmacists are ACPE-accredited in Risk Level I,II and III aseptic compounding in compliance with USP <797>.

EXPERIENCE: Technicians undergo weekly competency assessments for: geometric dilution powder mixing, capsule weight variation, troche weight variation and observational audits for capsule, troche and topical cream compounding techniques.

EXPERIENCE: All of our staff are highly trained, ACPE-certified and state registered compounding experts, each with years of experience. This is not a teaching pharmacy. There are NO students making your prescriptions... Ever.

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QUALITY ASSURANCE: Digital scales are directly linked to lab computers, which verify and record the weights as well as calculate percent error.

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http://www.compoundingcornerpharmacy.com/ 1730 Williams Trace Blvd., Ste. K, Sugar Land, TX 77478 • 281-494-7777 fort bend

magazine • August 2014

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COVER FEATURE AUGUST 2014

F E AT U R E S 32 SMILING IN THE FACE OF TRAGEDY After a tragic loss, Dr. Samuel E. Cress gives Mary Sullivan a reason to smile.

55 absolutely! FINEST IN MEDICINE Health Care News You Can Use

COLUMNS 30 HIGH SCHOOL HOT SHOT Meet Carina Henry

36 FOCUS ON FINANCE Never Enough

38 PREPARING FOR DIVORCE: PROTECTING YOURSELF, YOUR FAMILY AND YOUR ASSETS Thoughts from Chad Pinkerton

42 THE LAND OF ENCHANTMENT Southwestern culture offers nature, cuisine and art to remember

Sophia Posey, International Preparatory School; Alexa Butler, Southminster School and Kolton Kaminski, Fort Bend Christian Academy.

76 THE MAKING OF FORT BEND A Chautauqua Talk with Sugar Land Mayor Bill Little

Photography shot on location at Fort Bend Christian Academy

by Nesossi Studios.

80 LIVING THE SWEET LIFE Supersizing Your Sweet Life!

17 absolutely! BACK TO SCHOOL Get the kids organized and ready for the new school year.

18 ORGANIZING TIPS FOR BACK TO SCHOOL SUCCESS 20 IS YOUR CHILD KINDERGARTEN READY? 22 READY, SET, GRADUATE!

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • August 2014

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CONTRIBUTORS

Lisa Giesler, CPO www.atimeandplace4.com Page 18

AUGUST 2014

|

VOLUME 10

NEWSWORTHY 29 LADYBUGS SPREAD WINGS OF CARE

To Richmond Healthcare Center

46 FORT BEND CARES

Grants Over $160,000 to 22 Area Charities

47 FORT BEND FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS Fall Luncheon

50 ALOHA TO THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR. . .

Golf “Fore” Student Success

51 READING BETWEEN THE WINES

|

NUMBER 10

Meet “Under the Mistletoe” for Charity

54 THE 5TH ANNUAL AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY COUTURE FOR THE CAUSE Co-Chairs Break Ground for Upcoming Fashion Show

F A M I LY N I G H T AT T H E M O V I E S

Tim Kaminski Gingerbread Kids Academy Page 20

20

absolutely!

DELICIOUS

Vicki Ikeler Contributor Page 22

71 SUMMER TRAVEL TIP:

22

A Corkscrew on an Airplane?

Joan Frances Contributor Page 30

72 BACK TO SCHOOL NUTRITION BREAKS

30

73 RECREATE A RESTAURANT CLASSIC

Serve Porterhouse Pork Chops with Steakhouse Butter

absolutely!

AUTO REVIEW

Will Hardee Hardee Investment Group Page 36

36

38

IN EVERY ISSUE 10 PUBLISHER’S POINT OF VIEW

Chad Pinkerton The Pinkerton Law Firm, PLLC Page 38 Christopher Hill Contributor Page 40

74 2015 GMC YUKON DENALI

Co-Chairs Announced

52 FBJSL AND SPONSORS

18

40 Zeenat Kassam Mitha Cultural Correspondent Page 42

42

34 SEEN ON THE SCENE

Lara Bell absolutely! focus media Page 44

68 OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART OF THE BEND

44 Amy Gross VineSleuth/Wine4.Me Page 71

77 AMATEUR PHOTO CONTEST 78 COMMUNITY CALENDAR OF EVENTS

71 Stephenie Cox absolutely! focus media Page 72

40 DIVERGENT BEARS MUPPETS MOST WANTED

72 Steve Kursar Auto Enthusiast Page 74

T R AV E L

74 Jonathan Fausset Contributor Page 76

44 LABOR DAY FUN!

Favorite destinations for the last hurrah of summer

76 ON THE COVER: Fort Bend Christian Academy students Kolton and Kassidi Kaminski.

Photography by Nesossi Studios.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • August 2014

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Alisa Murray Alisa Murray Photography Page 80

80

TAKE THE FIRST STEP

IN ELIMINATING

JOINT

PAIN

Contact a Memorial Hermann Joint Center. And start living pain free.

Staying active is key to staying healthy.

Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why Joint Center specialists use the most advanced treatments to get you moving again. From new prescription options, to minimally invasive surgical interventions, our affiliated body of experts is ready to help you find the best path to the life you want to live.

Call 713.272.1888 or visit jointpain.memorialhermann.org for more information or to make an appointment.

EXCLAMATION POINTS! THE INSIDE SCOOP STRAIGHT FROM THE TOP

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief, PATTI PARISH-KAMINSKI

Vol. 10 No. 10 August 2014

Change is Good

4655 TECHNIPLEX DR. STE 700 STAFFORD, TX 77477 281-690-4242

At my house, perhaps the three most dreaded words in the English language are “back to school.” Of course, it all depends on who you ask. I personally love the idea of getting back into a somewhat normal routine after the lazy days of summer. Change is good.

As always, the new school year brings both change and anticipation, and we’ve Kassidi and Patti Kaminski visiting the done our part to help you and your kids be University of Texas. prepared. Our absolutely! Back to School section features the best and brightest in Fort Bend schools and after school activities, helpful tips for kids from Kindergarten to high school seniors, and of course, information on the best holiday all year long – the Texas Sales Tax Holiday TaxFree Weekend. Get those shopping lists ready for August 8th through 10th, and shop ’til you drop!

Change, a time of transition, describes the past few months here at absolutely! focus media. After working with Michael and Lisa for over five years growing, building, defining our four award-winning, monthly community magazines, over the summer I purchased the company and now serve as the publisher. Right here with me is Jessica Kij with her nearly ten-year tenure at Fort Bend Focus, who now serves as our associate publisher. It’s an exciting time for us all as Michael and Lisa pursue other interests, and absolutely! focus media is poised for growth and success. In fact, we recently won seven national awards and one local award for our magazines, and the best is yet to come. Yes, change is good.

I’m sure Lynn Povich, the first female Senior Editor at Newsweek magazine, has seen her fair share of change in her role in the publishing world, and she shares my sentiment that change is good. Povich said, “Change is often rejuvenating, invigorating, fun . . . and necessary.” I couldn’t agree more.

Best of luck to all of our students on the new school year. It will be rejuvenating, invigorating, fun, and of course, necessary. Work hard and finish strong. At absolutely! focus media, we certainly will.

Stay focused!

editor@fortbendfocus.com

A S S O C IAT E P U B L I S H E R Jessica Kij M A NA G I N G E D I T O R Sarah Bearden AC C O U N T E X E C U T I V E S Stephenie Cox Susan Dannhaus Jennifer Elliott Kay Garrett Juliet Hubbell Michelle Johnson Andrea Rigamonti Suzanne Stiles Bonnie Bell Woodrow A RT D I R E C T O R Grace Belleza GRAPHIC DESIGNER Ginger Garza WEB DESIGNER Joey Belleza PHOTOGRAPHER Nesossi Studios CONTRIBUTORS M.G. Angulo Lara Bell Stephenie Cox Jonathan Fausset Joan Frances Lisa Giesler, CPO Amy Gross Will Hardee Christopher Hill Vicki Ikeler Tim Kaminski Steve Kursar Zeenat Kassam Mitha Alisa Murray Chad Pinkerton

E D I T O R IA L S U B M I S S I O N S editor@fortbendfocus.com Published by

READER FEEDBACK

Anthony Cameron

PUBLISHER E D I T O R- I N - C H I E F Patti Parish-Kaminski

INQUIRIES 281-690-4242

www.FortBendFocus.com Facebook.com/FortBendFocus Ticket giveaways to area attractions and events.

I read Fort Bend Focus every day! I love hearing about what’s going on in my surrounding community.

WWW.FORTBENDFOCUS.C0M

Hi Sarah, I wanted to let you know that I viewed our wedding photos and announcement and am absolutely in love with it. Thanks again for all of your help. We truly appreciate all the time you put in. Thanks!

Kim Kobos

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • August 2014

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Subscription requests are free to all Fort Bend addresses. Annual paid subscription of $25 required outside the Fort Bend area.

Fort Bend FocusTM Magazine is published by absolutely! focus media, 4655 Techniplex Dr., Ste. 700, Stafford, TX 77477. Copyright © 2014 by absolutely! focus media. All rights reserved.

Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Fort Bend FocusTM Magazine does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial, nor do the publishers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Fort Bend FocusTM Magazine welcomes editorial submissions from its readers.

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HUNTERS CREEK VILLAGE Hedwig Street 6/6.5 - 8,827 sf ±30,000 sq. ft. lot | quarters | pool Susan Boss | 713.823.6992

SUGAR LAND Maranatha Drive 5-6/5.5+ - 8,543 sf very special property on ±6.56 acres | 3rd floor flex space | elevator | barn with 3 stalls Cindy Burns | 281.630.8865

SUGAR LAND Highway 90A 4/3.5 - 7,602 sf lovely traditional home on Alkire Lake Cindy Burns | 281.630.8865

MISSOURI CITY Westpoint Drive 4-5/3.5 - 4,892 sf private retreat | backs to Oyster Creek Cindy Burns | 281.630.8865

RICHMOND Forest Mill Lane 4/2.5 - 2,905 sf nice updated home in West Oaks Village Ron Aga | 832.423.6973

SUGAR LAND Lake Pointe Parkway 3-4/3.5 - 3,265 sf live in the heart of Sugar Land Carrie Summers | 281.773.4404

RICHMOND Retreat Boulevard 4-5/4.5+ - 8,059 sf stunning ranch estate on ±1.5 acres Cindy Burns | 281.630.8865

SWEETWATER Beacon Hill 6/7.5 - 12,585 sf Robert Dame-designed home Cindy Burns | 281.630.8865

KATY Gadwall Drive 4-5/3.5 - 3,971 sf large open floor plan | lots of windows gourmet kitchen | media room | 3 car garage

Welcome Home Operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc.

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I chose MD Anderson in Sugar Land - Michelle Williams

When I had breast cancer, the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading care was right here.

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 and clinical trials. They customized a plan just for me.

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absolutely

Back to School Private School s & A f t e r S c h o o l A c t i v i t i e s

F E AT U R I N G

Photography shot on location at Fort Bend Christian Academy by Nesossi Studios.

Organizing Tips for Back to School Success Is Your Child Kindergarten Ready?

The Kensington School Fort Bend Christian Academy Ready, Set, Graduate!

The Briarwood School Safety America The Goddard School Southminster School Sugar Land Gymnastics, Dance and Karate LearningRx International Preparatory School Dance Works Studio Brilliant Sky Toys and Books

Evan Posey, Alexa Butler, Kassidi Kaminski, Tommy Hawkins and Sophia Posey.

Fort Bend Christian Academy students Kolton and Kassidi Kaminski with Southminster School students Alexa Butler and Tommy Hawkins.

Evan Posey, International Preparatory School; Kolton Kaminski, Fort Bend Christian Academy and Sophia Posey, International Preparatory School.

absolutely! Back to School

Organizing Tips for Back to School Success

By Lisa Giesler, Certified Professional Organizer

M

any families are in a frantic rush by now to get the kids ready for school and college by shopping for school supplies and clothes. The truth is many do not know what is in their cluttered cabinets and closets. The items that I find when organizing are clothes with tags still on from two years ago, several brand new packs of markers, packs of paper and the list go on.

The cycle of wasting time and money shopping for new supplies continues each year until the clutter becomes overwhelming. How does this happen? For some people, it feels easier to buy more than to face the task of decluttering, but at some point, you need to get organized for the new school year.

Here are five tips to help you – and your kids – get ready for the new school year.

Go through all of the spaces that contain school supplies, and bring them to one location.

1 2

Discard the dried up markers, broken crayons, used up notebooks, torn backpacks, etc.

3

Make a list of everything you have, and then, make a list of materials your child needs for the coming school year.

Stock Up Tax Free

4

Go through your children’s clothing and determine what items they didn’t wear. Find out why.

Remember, it doesn’t save money to buy clothes on sale that your children are not going to wear. Also, keep in mind that too many clothes can be overwhelming to your child, and you may notice they always grab the first outfit on top or in front. Then, either donate the unused clothing or store for another child.

5

Take your lists of school materials and clothing needed, and buy only those items on the list. And remember, the Texas Sales Tax Holiday Tax-Free Weekend is August 8th through 10th and applies to most school supplies under $100.

Now you are ready – and organized – for the new school year. For more organizing tips, visit www.atimeandplace4. com.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • August 2014

18

According to the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, many school supplies if priced less than $100 are tax exempt during the Texas Sales Tax Holiday Tax-Free weekend August 8th through 10th including: • Binders • Book bags • Calculators • Cellophane tape • Blackboard chalk • Compasses • Composition books • Crayons • Erasers • Folders; expandable, pocket, plastic and manila • Glue, paste and paste sticks • Highlighters • Index cards • Index card boxes • Legal pads • Lunch boxes • Markers (including dry erase) • Notebooks • Paper • Pencil boxes and other school supply boxes • Pencil sharpeners • Pencils • Pens • Protractors • Rulers • Scissors • Writing tablets Visit http://www.window.state.tx.us/ taxinfo/taxpubs/taxholiday for more information on tax exempt items.

absolutely! Back to School

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MONTESSORI METHOD + 21ST CENTURY SKILLS + BRAIN BASED LEARNING The Kensington School’s mission is to integrate the Montessori philosophy with 21st century skills development practices and cutting-edge educational approaches to offer a program that is fun, addresses the needs of the whole child, and prepares our graduates to enter elementary school with a sound academic foundation.

info@TheKensingtonSchoolTX.com • www.TheKensingtonSchoolTX.com • (281) 232-4400

fort bend

magazine • August 2014

19

absolutely! Back to School

Is Your Child ? y d a e R Kindergarten

By Tim Kaminski

M

aking sure that your child is Kindergarten ready is an important step in the overall success of his or her longterm education. But making certain that your child is ready is more than just purchasing school supplies and new sneakers.

Before you pack your little one off to Kindergarten, there are some basic skills that will help him have a successful entry into the education system, all of which can be addressed by enrolling three and four-year-olds in a public or private PreK program that focuses on 10 key milestones to insure your child is Kindergarten ready.

1.

Social and Emotional Development

Through age-appropriate social and emotional development, the child develops a sense of self and personal control.

He is able to follow rules within a classroom type setting and engage with his peers in group activities without being disruptive. The child is aware of his own feelings and the feelings of his peers.

2.

Language and Communication

The child is able to understand and follow two to three step instructions. He uses communication to initiate conversations with his peers and to gain new information about his environment.

3.

Emergent Literacy Reading

The child is able to identify up to 20 upper and lower case letters of the alphabet. He is able to sound out single

sight words with pictorial support, and identify those words in stories. The child can reenact parts of a story after it has been read to him.

Literacy 4. Emergent Writing

The child is able to write his name with some accuracy, and he can independently write some letters upon request. The child may use some scribble drawings to convey a meaning to a story.

5. Mathematics

The child is able to rote count from one to 30. He has a basic understanding that items and things can be counted. He understands that the order sequence of counting is always the same and can use a verbal word problem to add or subtract one to five items. The child should also be able to name and recreate common shapes.

6. Science

The child is able to observe and describe the common properties of different objects, such as fruits and vegetables. He is able to use basic tools for measuring and learning about objects.

The child is able to talk about changes in the environment, such as weather and

seasons, and he is able to discuss cause and effect from experiments.

7. Social Studies

The child is able to discuss the similarities and differences between people.

He is able to organize his life around events, time and routines, and he can identify the roles and responsibilities of community workers, such as policemen and firemen. The child should also be able to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.

8. Fine Arts

The child is accustomed to using a variety of art materials and activities for sensory experience and exploration. He should be able to use art for self-expression and be able to show appreciation for other peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s artwork. The child should also be familiar with participating in music and dramatic play activities.

9. Physical Development

The child is able to run, jump climb and pedal. He shows signs of improved eye hand coordination and is able to cut using scissors. He also understands personal safety and hygiene.

10. Technology

The child is able to identify rudimentary parts of a computer, such as a mouse and key board. He is able to use basic software programs to navigate through an activity on the computer.

By focusing on these 10 key milestones, parents can easily determine whether their child is prepared to succeed in Kindergarten. For more information on the Texas Pre-Kindergarten Guidelines, visit the Texas Education Agency website at http://www.tea.state.tx.us/ index2.aspx?id=2147495508&menu_ id=2147483718.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com â&#x20AC;˘ August 2014

20

absolutely! Back to School The Kensington School: A 21st Century Montessori

T

he Kensington School was developed by a group of educators and youth developers who saw the need for an early childhood education center in the Sugar Land/Richmond/Houston area that draws on the best practices of Montessori education and combines them with a focus on 21st century skills and technology. The center prepares students to start elementary school with an edge no matter where they go to school, and in the long run, it prepares them for college and careers of the future.

The Montessori approach is a proven and compelling model. Early childhood education centers should also integrate technology and incorporate cutting-edge educational practices, such as brain-based learning. This combination will prepare students for the education demands of the future, which will require critical thinking, collaboration, creativity and communication. Children in the Sugar Land/Richmond/Houston area should also have access to the same rich offerings in after school and summer programming that can be found in areas such as Silicon Valley.

Finally, families should be engaged in their children’s education, which is why the Kensington School offers sessions such as Do It Yourself Montessori Activities for the Home and reading circles. The founders of The Kensington School have Masters degrees in teaching and education and years of experience in teaching. They have trained other teachers, developed curriculum for other childcare centers and youth programs and operated summer youth camps. They welcome you to stop by to see their immense passion for education and for the success of your children.

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact The Kensington School at info@TheKensingtonSchoolTX.com or 281-232-4400.

See ad on page 19.

Advertorial

Discover the Fort Bend Christian Academy Difference

F

ort Bend Christian Academy (FBCA) has an exciting story to tell. Beginning with seven students in 1987, the school has grown to almost 900 students in grades Pre-Kindergarten through 12. It is strategically located on 35 acres in the heart of Sugar Land, one of the fastest growing communities in the United States. A full-curriculum Christian school, Fort Bend Christian Academy is at the forefront of private educational providers in the Houston/Sugar Land area.

Passionate about students and their future, FBCA faculty and staff are committed to influencing this next generation of leaders through a stringent academic curriculum that results in producing young men and women of integrity. Upon graduation, FBCA students are thoroughly trained and equipped to enter the finest colleges in Texas and the nation. In fact, 100 percent of the graduates of the class of 2014 were accepted to college, most to their first choice school.

FBCA offers challenging, college prep academics, competitive award-winning sports (2007-14 State Softball Champs or State Runner Up, 2013 State Baseball Champs) and fine arts programs (2011-2014 TAPPS State Art Champions), local/ national/global service learning opportunities and varied co-curricular options. You are invited to tour the elementary, middle and high school campuses and discover for yourself the Fort Bend Christian Academy difference.

FBCA is located at 1250 Seventh Street in Sugar Land. For more information, visit www.fortbendchristian.org or contact the Admissions Office at 281-263-9142 or admissions@fortbendchristian.org.

Award Winning Academics, Athletics, Arts

2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 TAPPS 4A Art State Champions

PK-12 | Apply NOW for 2014-2015 281-263-9142 | 1250 Seventh Street, Sugar Land, TX 77478 @FBEagles | fort bend

/FortBendChristian | www.fortbendchristian.org

magazine • August 2014

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absolutely! Back to School

Ready, Set, Graduate!

Top

s r o i n e for S

List

By Vicki Ikeler

H

ello Class of 2015! This is the time you have looked forward to since entering high school – you are now a senior! To help you get your senior year off to a great start, there are several things that you need to consider.

Here is your Top Ten List on making your senior year the best ever:

1.

You are not finished! Senior year does, indeed, count. Do your best. No senior slide allowed. Your grades remain very important.

2.

Meet with your counselor to be sure you are scheduled to take everything necessary to meet graduation requirements. No surprises!

3.

If you have not yet taken the required tests for your schools of interest or if you are trying to better your

scores, sign up for the first SAT or ACT available in the fall. This will allow you to have your scores back in time for priority deadlines for admission and scholarship consideration.

4.

August 1st is the first date for submitting admission applications. Get your essays written and your resumé information gathered so that you are ready to go. Early application is a plus as it indicates early interest. Likewise, it gets you in line for earlier housing consideration.

5.

Continue to visit school campuses and local offices of admission representatives to investigate schools of interest. Try to narrow your list to five schools. Almost every school to which you apply will require an admission fee.

That can become expensive! Save that money for textbooks or other expenses.

6.

Secure letters of recommendation to accompany your applications.

You should choose at least one teacher who knows you well. Likewise, it is helpful to have an employer, a coach, a youth minister or some other adult who can speak to your character and work ethic.

7.

Complete your resumé.

Be sure to include information about your academic performance, extracurricular and volunteer activities, honors or awards and work experience. You will need to calculate hours spent per week in each activity, as well as the number of weeks per year you devoted to them.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • August 2014

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8.

Try to submit all of your applications online. This saves time and is much more efficient. Whether you are using the Texas Common Application, The Common Application or a school’s own application, try to complete and submit all necessary information before November 1st.

9.

Once you have submitted your applications, request an official transcript be sent to the school or schools to which you have applied. Likewise, request your test scores be sent to the schools you have selected in order to complete your application requirements.

College Board (the SAT) and American College Testing (ACT) will then send them electronically on your behalf.

10.

Investigate scholarship opportunities available to you.

For example, your parent’s business or professional organizations, your church, your place of work or volunteering and local organizations or businesses. College is expensive. Do your part.

Senior year is a time to celebrate but not before you graduate. Do what you need to do, and take care of business.

Then, you can enjoy every minute of your special year.

absolutely! Back to School

Advertorial

Gymnastics

281-240-0999

NURTURING SPACES DESIGNED FOR THE FUN OF LEARNING.

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Tour your local Goddard School and experience why it’s the best preparation for social and academic success.

Goddard Systems, Inc.’s program is AdvancED accredited.

SUGAR LAND • 281-491-0313 9722 U.S. HIGHWAY 90A

-----------LEARNING FOR FUN. LEARNING FOR LIFE.®

GoddardSchool.com

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The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc. Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, Inc. program is AdvancED accredited. © Goddard Systems, Inc. 2014

fort bend

magazine • August 2014

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Advertorial

absolutely! Back to School

The Briarwood School: Empowering Students with Learning Differences

T

he Briarwood School is a private school for Pre-K through 12th grade students of average to above average intelligence who present learning differences that include dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, attention deficit and similar language-based challenges. While specializing in the remediation of dyslexia and other learning disabilities, Briarwood also helps students identify their strengths and gifts, both of which will emerge as underpinnings for successful careers.

Students who enter the Lower School program are immersed in research-based remediation programs designed to address their specific learning needs. In small classes that support personalized instruction, students quickly recognize that they will become confident and strong in skills that previously were nonexistent.

Briarwood prides itself in preparing students for college by incorporating critical thinking, self-awareness and advocacy skills throughout all of their classes. Briarwood’s Upper School courses support a transcript that will afford students opportunities to pursue a myriad of post high school options.

Students transition to Briarwood from public and private schools and remain until their learning challenges have been addressed in a timely manner. Following Briarwood, students enter other schools with confidence that the strategies they have learned will continue to foster their strengths as they pursue other educational environments.

Some students choose to remain at Briarwood to complete their high school education.

A school that stays abreast of the latest research specific to learning differences, Briarwood’s teachers are provided ongoing professional development and are highly qualified to address students’ specific learning challenges through a diagnostic-prescriptive approach delivered through direct instruction. Visit www.briarwoodschool.org or call 281-4931070 for more information.

The Real Deal

W

hat makes Safety America different than all of the other martial arts schools around? Self-defense!

They don’t just talk about teaching it, they actually teach it.

Hands on, real-life, street, self-defense! Let’s face it, we live in a dangerous world today, and when you give your child the gift of self-defense, you are arming him with the tools to help keep him safe for a lifetime.

It all starts with kids four-years-old, believe it or not.

They call them “Little Ninjas” at Safety America. When you watch them practicing their “stranger danger” defense techniques, you will understand why. “They know when and where to strike, what to yell and when to run,” said Bob Gifford, an eighth degree black belt. “These kids are smarter and faster than you think, and when you train them properly, you increase their chances for escaping a bad situation.”

Gifford has been teaching martial arts for the past 40 years and has several successful karate schools all around Fort Bend County. He taught the Stranger Danger classes for the Sugar Land Police D.A.R.E. program for 10 years, so when it comes to kids, he knows what he’s doing. “It’s all about building a child’s confidence, and it takes time, practice and a mom’s dedication to bring him to class regularly. I have seen the personality of many kids change over the years from shy and withdrawn to self-assured and confident, carrying a whole new outlook on life.”

Come and visit any of Safety America’s four locations and try a free class. Call 281-980-3030 for more information.

See ad on page 19.

www.briarwoodschool.org TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • August 2014

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absolutely! Back to School

Advertorial

Go Back to School with The Goddard School Located in Sugar Land

F

or over 25 years, The Goddard School® has been a trusted name among parents and families. Their proven educational approach is developed by experts and ensures that children have fun while learning the skills they need for long-term success in school and in life.

At The Goddard School located in Sugar Land, highly trained teachers nurture children into respectful, confident and joyful learners. Additionally, their F.L.EX.® (Fun, Learning Experience) Learning Program provides child-focused, play-based lessons that encourage a lifelong love of learning.

This program is based on research that shows children experience the deepest, most genuine learning when they are having fun.

Nothing is more important than the health and safety of children. That’s why The Goddard School considers the security of children in all they do.

From every detail of classroom and playground design to high standards of cleanliness, the safety of the children is always the first priority. Diligent hiring practices ensure that The Goddard School has the best staff, and teachers are thoroughly trained in safety and wellness principles.

The Goddard School’s Educational Director and teachers are committed to open and daily communication, informing parents about their child’s daily care, activities and accomplishments.

The Goddard School offers regularly scheduled conferences throughout the year to discuss progress and behaviors with parents.

Stop by The Goddard School, located at 9722 Highway 90A in Sugar Land, any weekday from 9 am to 5 pm.

For more information, contact 281491-0313 or e-mail SugarLandTX@ GoddardSchools.com to schedule a tour.

See ad on page 23.

Southminster School More than a school…it’s a family!

Serving children ages 18 months - 6th grade.

Space is limited. Reserve your spot today.

4200 Cartwright Road • Missouri City, Texas 77459 281-261-8872 • www.southminsterschool.org

What is Being a Southminster School Mariner All About?

M A

Mariners have manners because saying “please” and “thank you” matter. “A man’s manners are a mirror in which he shows his portrait.” – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe Mariners are accountable for their thoughts, words and actions. “Your beliefs become your thoughts, your thoughts become your words, your words become your actions, your actions become your habits, your habits become your values, your values become your destiny.” – Mahatma Gandhi Mariners have respect for the Lord, their school, friends, teachers, and themselves. “Tolerance implies a respect for another person, not because he is wrong or even because he is right, but because he is human.” – John Cogley Commonweal Mariners aren’t afraid to use their imaginations and think “outside the box.” “The man who has no imagination has no wings.” – Muhammad Ali Mariners are noble, socially aware, and committed to serving others. “In the end you should always do the right thing even if it’s hard.” – Nicholas Sparks Mariners are enthusiastic. Anything worth doing is worth doing well. “It’s faith in something and enthusiasm in something that makes life worth living.” – Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. Mariners have a responsibility to do their best, live their best and be their best.

“The price of greatness is responsibility.” – Winston Churchill Together, we work together to serve the Lord and adhere to the code listed above to make Southminster School a home to all people. Southminster School serves children ages 18 months to 6th grade. Visit www.Southminsterschool.org for more information.

R

I N E R

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magazine • August 2014

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absolutely! Back to School

Advertorial

Sugar Land Gymnastics, Dance and Karate Expands to Sienna

T

hree years ago, Robert Gifford purchased the Bill Austin Gymnastics and Dance facility, which is located next to the Sugar Land Ice Center in First Colony. Gifford named the new center Sugar Land Gymnastics, Dance and Karate (SLG). Since then, enrollment has skyrocketed and continues to climb. Gifford explained, “We have reached the 1,000 student mark, and available spots in our program will now be limited.” The reason for his success? “Quality. When you have quality instruction and a quality curriculum housed in a quality, state-of-the-art facility, word spreads quickly.”

Last August, Gifford opened a second multi-purpose facility in Sienna. The 7,000 square foot facility offers gymnastics, cheerleading, tumbling, summer camp, birthday parties and Safety America Karate.

SLG’s head coach, Coach Mei Liu, competed as a member of the Chinese National Team and is a USAG certified national judge. She also has 26 years of experience and has coached levels four through seven State Champions. Gifford said, “We don’t believe in screaming at the kids. Positive reinforcement will get us there, and we will have a bunch of fun along the way.”

Mom-and-Me classes at SLG starts kids off at eighteen-months-old and builds skills at each and every level. SLG also offers competitive girl’s team programs, as well as recreational classes and tumbling. For more information, call SLG at 281240-0999 or visit www.SugarLandGymnastics.com.

See ad on page 23.

As Featured on KHOU’s Great Day Houston.

®

Unlock Your Einstein!

Come Learn About the Science Behind LearningRx

Our research-based programs consist of customized mental exercises, one-on-one with a personal brain trainer over 12-40 weeks.

LearningRx.com/sugar-land 14015 SW Freeway, Suite 10 Sugar Land, TX 77478

Come in today to get answers!

281-302-4088

COGNITIVE ASSESSMENT

$50 OFF

EXPIRES 8/31/14

• READING PROBLEMS & DYSLEXIA • ADHD & ATTENTION ISSUES • STRUGGLING STUDENTS • COLLEGE STUDENTS

Other Area Locations: Spring-Champions 832-698-2450

Cinco Ranch 281-394-5533

Houston Central 713-839-8885

Huntsville 936-295-4579

Clear-Lake 281-819-4200

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

The Woodlands 832-482-3082

.com • August 2014

26

Train the Brain at LearningRx

L

earningRx Brain Training Center offers clinically proven programs for children and adults who struggle with learning, memory, reading, thinking quickly or paying attention.

“LearningRx does for the mind what a physical trainer does for the body,” said Syndee Howgate, Executive Director of the center. “We make the brain stronger and faster by strengthening the underlying brain skills that are responsible for how we grasp and process information. Our methods get more dramatic improvements in brain performance than any other program on the market today, including tutoring.”

Many of the company’s clients are struggling students, although brain training, as Howgate explained, is an entirely different process than tutoring. “Tutoring reteaches information but doesn’t address the reason the information didn’t ‘stick’ in the first place. Our programs address the root cause by changing the way the brain thinks, reads, learns, focuses and remembers. When core brain skills are stronger, learning is easier.”

LearningRx Brain Training Center also helps people diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), dyslexia or autism. In fact, according to Howgate, four out of 10 clients who start the program on ADD medications report being able to reduce or stop medication altogether.

The programs are also designed for people who do not have diagnoses but are simply frustrated by some aspect of their mental performance at school, work or in life. These include adults who want to perform better on the job, victims of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and senior adults who want to delay cognitive decline.

For more information, visit www.

LearningRx.com/Sugar-Land or call 281-302-4088.

absolutely! Back to School International Preparatory School Pre-K 3 thru 8th Grade: Excellence, Diversity, Communication and Enrichment

P

arents have several choices when it comes to their children. Those who visit the International Preparatory School are looking for a fresh philosophy and a renewed energy in teaching.

Smaller class sizes rank as the number one concern. Why? This provides individual attention for students who require more support in some areas while addressing the needs of the gifted child. This all translates into a school where both the teachers and administration set common expectations in an open, interactive, understanding and energizing manner.

Parents want a safe environment that maintains a high standard of discipline and respect. Emphasis on a well-rounded education makes participation in extracurricular activities an integral part of the everyday curriculum. Studies demonstrate that healthy competition, be it through math or chess clubs, lead to a higher motivation in learning.

Going to school should be an adventure. That adventure begins now at age three with a creative learning environment, which continues through elementary and middle school. The curriculum aspires balanced academics while developing a strong social, physical and moral aptitude.

The International Preparatory School is the choice many parents make for their children as it provides an environment that fosters the gifted and accelerated student as well as the under-confident. If you have great expectations for your child, come by and experience the vibrant atmosphere at the International Preparatory School for yourself.

Join the International Preparatory School staff for their 2014-2015 Open House on August 18th from 6 to 8 pm at 1717 Dulles Avenue in Missouri City.

For more information, call 281-2081403 or visit www.ipspanthers.com.

Advertorial

Integrity, Honesty, and Service to Others

INTERNATIONAL PREPARATORY SCHOOL Pre-K3 – 8th Grade

Currently Registering for the 2014-2015 School Year Available After School Programs:

For More Information

Call: 281-208-1403

Homework Assistance • Art • Voice Guitar • Piano • Chess Club Private School Interscholastic Association Academic Competitions After School Program available until 6:30 pm.

www.ipspanthers.com 1717 DULLES AVE. • MISSOURI CITY • TX 77459 • FAX 281-208-1426

Sugar Land’s Exclusive Specialty

Toy Store Where Education and Fun Come Together!

• Best Toys Handpicked from World Over!

• Toys for Special Needs Kids • Complementary Gift Wrapping • Free Art and Craft Classes on Tuesdays & Fridays at 10:00 am • Free Storytelling Sessions • Monthly Game Nights Find Your Way to Play!

Coming Soon!

Most Awaited Homeschooling Packages and Tween Section 16160 City Walk • Sugar Land Town Square • 281-242-TOYS (8697) www.toystoreshouston.com fort bend

magazine • August 2014

facebook.com/BrilliantSkySugarland

27

Advertorial

absolutely! Back to School Dance Works Studio: Taking it to the Next Level

W

hether you are in the market for a beginning dancer wanting to learn to dance and improve on technique and skill level or a seasoned dancer wanting to take it up a notch in competitive dance, Dance Works is the studio for you!

Although Dance Works has been in business for over 20 years, the new location and ever-evolving non-competitive and competitive programs keep the studio new, fresh and exciting! No matter what program your child is in, Dance Works is ready to take your dancer to the next level. The new studio has a sprawling 13,000 square feet that houses many talented teachers with all different types of educational backgrounds from dance company members to performers to degreed Dance Educators.

Dance Work’s mission is to provide a positive atmosphere where your child feels comfortable learning and constantly improving with a staff dedicated to developing talent at both the recreational and competitive level. Their interest lies in building more than just a dancer; the studio aims to build character as well with a focus on self-discipline. They also want to ensure that there is a wholesomeness to the selections of music and costumes.

If you have an interested dancer – new or advanced – and are looking for the perfect dance studio packaged up with a big pink and zebra bow, you have found it!

Visit Dance Works Studio at 7246 Knights Court in Missouri City. For more information, call 281-208-7114 or visit www.majestics.net.

Find Your Way to Play at Brilliant Sky Toys and Books

B

rilliant Sky Toys and Books encourages learning through play.

Enter a world where every toy is curated with a lot of thought and for its uses rather than popularity. They believe that the right playthings give children a gateway to physical, emotional and cognitive development. Brilliant Sky’s toy experts can help choose the most suitable toy for any age, need or preference. They love what they do and can find something fun for everyone!

Brilliant Sky Toys and Books hosts many fun, enjoyable events and activities throughout the year. Join them on Tuesdays and Fridays at 10 am for a free craft class for ages two and up.

Their popular Family Game Nights are on the last Friday of every month at 6 pm, and all they ask for you to bring is your fun, competitive spirit. Come and find your way to play!

Brilliant Sky Toys and Books is located at 16160 City Walk in Sugar Land Town Square. The store offers complimentary gift wrapping and curb side pick up. Call 281-242-TOYS and get a drive thru service! For more information on current events such as storytelling, author book signings and special sales, visit www.facebook. com/brilliantskysugarland.

See ad on page 27.

TO ADVERTISE Call 281-690-4242 or visit www.FortBendFocus.com TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • August 2014

28

NEWSWORTHY Arts EducaPon for Youth

Ladybugs Spread Wings of Care to Richmond Healthcare Center

YOUNG AUDIENCES of HOUSTON

WWW.YAHOUSTON.ORG

Scheduling (713) 520-­‐9264

SCHOOL PERFORMANCES SCHOOL WORKSHOPS GRADES PK-­‐12

Ladybugs attending the event at the Richmond Healthcare Center included Dr. Eugenia Blomstrom, Milly Jones, Dee Dee Blomstrom, Velvete Rojubokan and Vicki Latham.

The Ladybugs recently helped to spread joy to patrons in hospice, retirement and general healthcare at the Richmond Healthcare Center in Fort Bend. The group provided fun games Providing arts education and prizes, sang songs and brought each patron fresh-baked programs since 1956

pastries and chocolates, Mardi Gras beads, magazines, toiletries and other items to help brighten their day.

The Ladybugs, a social/civic group in existence since 2007, flutters to loearning tages nc cal area facilities to offer encouragement and motivation and lots of hugs A Child Development Center and warm smiles, while helping the patrons participate in various activiEnrolling for the ties or entertainment that they provide.

2014-2015 School Year Their efforts to spread good cheer and joy let individuals in healthcare faciliInfants – Pre-K ties know that they are being thought about.

• Curriculum Based Program The Ladybugs are now in the pro12780 South Kirkwood • Texas School Ready (Between Hwy 59 & Hwy 90) cess of collecting teddy bears to dis• TEA and CDA Certified Teachers tribute to handicapped patrons at local www.learningstages.com area facilities at Christmastime. Last year’s initiative was a huge success, and the group starts collecting bears during the summer. To donate new or gently used teddy bears, contact Ladybugs’ Coordinator Vicki Latham at Feature a Southern Ice Cream Cart at your next event! vmlatham@yahoo.com for information Also available: on where to drop off teddy bear dona★ Ice Cream Truck Rentals tions. ★ Sundae Parties For more information about beLargest coming a Ladybug and volunteering, Selection of contact at vmlatham@yahoo.com or Ice Cream request membership through meetup.

Great For www.southernicecreamtx.com com.

L

S

,I

.

Since 1992

281-240-0480

Let them eat ice cream!

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13755 Greenland Dr., Stafford

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magazine • August 2014

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High School HOT SHOT

By Joan Frances

Meet Carina Henry

C

lements High School has a reputation for graduating the highest caliber of students, and Carina Henry is one of them. The quality of teachers and curriculum at this school prepares a student for college life and beyond. Carina took full advantage of the many opportunities presented to her, and as a result, she is prepared for the next chapter in the book of her life.

Carina grew up in Fort Bend Independent School District for 12 years.

Her dad, Neil, mom, Melinda, sister, Marisa, and brother, Sean, supported Carina in all of her endeavors. Since middle school, Carina was a member of the band with talent to play any instrument in the percussion family, including the timpani, xylophone, cymbals, triangle, snare drum, bass drum, tambourine, maracas, gongs, chimes, celesta and castanets.

As a member of the marching band all four years of high school and section leader as a junior and senior, Carina attributes growth in leadership to the commitment it takes to be a part of the marching band. “Everyone in the band has potential to be leaders because of the long hours and constant strive for perfection. Fellow band members care for, support and encourage each other,” said Carina. Marching band entails grueling discipline in the summer

Carina heat, and the students acquire a close connection and build strong friendships that last throughout high school.

Clements High School is home to many great teachers. Carina’s most influential teacher was Christine Badillo, who taught Pre-AP World Geography to Carina as a freshman and Human Geography Culture to her as a junior. The one event that Carina enjoyed most was her involvement with Model United Nations. With Christine Badillo’s encouragement, Carina participated in Model United Nations competitions in Houston as a junior and Boston as a senior. The competitions challenged Carina to solve problems dealing with foreign issues, and she enjoyed meeting other scholars from schools all over the area.

Carina is also involved with the Girls Scouts and is working on achieving a Gold Award, similar to an Eagle Scout Award given to the Boy Scouts. This leadership-based achievement requires a total of 80 hours of community service.

For the past five years, Carina worked with Camp Colony Creek through Christ United Methodist Church to teach young girls how to earn badges by learning about the history and raising of the flag, science and rocket building, as well as

painting and crafts. Since January, Carina has worked part-time for Ninfas Mexican Food Restaurant as a hostess. This summer, Carina is employed as a caregiver.

Strong values are an important asset for leaders. Carina shared, “It is important to be honest. Treat others as you want to be treated.” Carina believes honesty is essential in every facet of life, from friendships to teachers and especially family because, in Carina’s words, “Honesty fosters communication.”

In a class of over 600 seniors, Carina placed in the top 15 percent and graduated cum laude. Carina was also a member of six honor societies: National Honor Society, Music, Art, Science, History and English.

Carina was awarded a scholarship from Chevron Canada BU, and this fall, Carina will attend the University of Texas in Austin where she will major in business with a finance energy tract. She will focus on energy management taking courses in geology, petroleum and gas law.

With quality education, credible teachers and strong family support, Carina is poised to be a huge success in the path she has chosen. Congratulations, Carina, and good luck as the next chapter begins.

“It is important to be honest.

Treat others as you want to be treated.”

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

– Carina Henry .com • August 2014

30

Advertorial

Smiling in the Face of Tragedy

By M.G. Angulo

O

n May 31st, 2013, Mary Moore Sullivan’s world changed. For an excruciating moment, it stopped, and getting it revolving again was no easy feat.

Amid the scores of news reports that flooded local media, Sullivan learned one of her four children, 24 year-old Anne Sullivan, died along with three other fire fighters in what the Houston Fire Department called the deadliest fire in the 118 years of the department’s history.

Anne, a lively woman from Sugar Land who dreamed of being a fire fighter, had only been on the job for about a month before the fatal blaze. The news of her death was shared across the nation and hit hard for many family members, friends and supporters in Fort Bend County and beyond.

“I miss her so much,” Sullivan said. “She was my daughter and my best friend. She is missed by so many other people as well – those who knew her and those who didn’t know her but knew her story.”

Despite the deep and heavy loss eating away at her, Sullivan knew she had to continue living and putting one foot in front of the other. The typical tasks that filled her days were still there waiting to be completed, so Sullivan steeled herself against the pain and decided to keep moving forward – including returning to her dentist for a followup visit.

Mary Moore Sullivan Photo by Nesossi Studios

Two days prior to Anne’s death, Sullivan had a routine checkup with her dentist Dr. Samuel E. Cress who owns a practice in Sugar Land. Anne’s passing, however, put a hold on Sullivan returning for her follow-up appointment.

Several months later, when Sullivan decided to finally return to Dr. Cress, she was still mourning the loss of her daughter but doggedly determined to keep living. “I have three other wonderful children I needed to be a parent to,” Sullivan said.

Unbeknownst to her, this wasn’t going to be a typical followup visit. In fact, this appointment proved to be an important milestone to Sullivan’s road to recovery because Dr. Cress offered Sullivan the Elite Smile.

Elite Smile is essentially a high-quality porcelain restoration procedure that can customize a person’s smile. Stained, cracked, crooked, worn and decaying teeth can be transformed into a dazzling natural-looking Hollywood smile. “Dr. Cress told me, ‘There’s not a lot I can do for you – I can’t bring your daughter back, and I can’t take away your grief – but I can give you a beautiful smile,’” Sullivan said.

Sullivan, a woman who loves to laugh, smile and talk, admitted she was self-conscious about her teeth because of their deteriorating state. She was missing a tooth, another was dead, and she battled chronic pain and decay. “And I’m one of those people who brushes, flosses and keeps my regular dentist appointments,” Sullivan said. “I just have bad teeth.”

After two painless and simple Elite Smile procedures, Sullivan said she had another reason to continue to push forward.

“After Anne’s death, I received cards from people I knew and people I didn’t know,” Sullivan said. “I got letters from people who Anne treated as an EMT who wanted me to know how Anne impacted their lives.”

Just like those cards, Dr. Cress’ offer is one that reminds Sullivan to keep living. “Our service men and women, both at home and abroad, are our heroes,” said Dr. Cress. “I can’t imagine a greater sacrifice than what Mary has endured in the loss of a child in the line of service. My goal was in some small way to help give Mary, a beautiful, vibrant woman, back her smile.”

“It was a huge gesture,” Sullivan said. “This was a kind thing for him to do, and I love my new chops. What’s really amazing is that Dr. Cress has only been my dentist for a year,” Sullivan added. “It’s not like I had been a patient of his for 20 years or something. He just heard about my loss and wanted to help in the only way he knew how.”

Dr. Cress’ gift wasn’t just about having a more captivating smile, though, Sullivan said. “What he did for me is helping me go on,” she said. “His gift was a reminder that I can’t give up on things now, that I have to continue living. To have someone be that nice to me means so much, and now that I have this beautiful smile, I’m trying to smile more.”

For more information about Dr. Cress and how the Elite Smile can change your life, visit www.cfdsm or call 281-565-4100.

Transform Your Smile to Today!

Elite

• Celebrating 23 years in Landscape Design and Installation • 13-year FIRST COLONY and FORT BEND COUNTY resident

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S E E N on the Scene

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Presented by the Hardee Investment Group and RBC Wealth Management

FOCU$ on FINANCE

Never Enough

I

t seems like every time I turn on the TV, radio or read the paper, there is always a negative response to economic news. I started thinking about this, and it drew me back to the 2008 financial problems. When the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) was first proposed in the fall of 2008, it was ridiculed. When quantitative easing starting, it was ridiculed. Amazingly, even as the Federal Reserve lowered interest rates to zero percent and pumped billions of dollars into the financial system to stave off a depression, all we heard from the experts was fears of inflation.

For a while, it seemed as if President Obama was on course to brutalize and destroy big banks and corporate America.

We all heard ObamaCare would bankrupt the country. Even good news in the energy world about large new oil and gas shale discoveries was met with negative views on fracking and global warming. What’s happened to the optimism of America? Why all of the negative reporting?

Fast forward the events mentioned above to present day.

In spite of the naysayers, inflation is low, the stock market is at an all-time high and America is once again becoming a dominant force in energy, which brings a strong economy with it. By the way, unemployment continues to decline, the deficit is slowing and our balance of payments has materially changed. How did you invest your wealth over the last six years?

It’s hard to be a successful investor when you let news headlines and emotions drive your decisions. If you had listened to all of the above news, you’d have missed a great time to invest in America. There will be many more periods of uncertainty in the future. How you react to them will be key to your financial success or failure. Buying low and selling high sounds easy, but when prices are low, news is usually bad.

Good news can come with a high price.

Let us help you understand how your emotions can affect your investment decisions. Call us today at 713-853-0879 or visit us online at HardeeInvestmentGroup.com to learn more about the driving emotions behind investments: greed and fear.

The views presented herein are solely those of H.H. “Will” Hardee, and do not necessarily represent the views of RBC Wealth Management. Current status of issues discussed in this letter is subject to change based upon market conditions and industry fundamentals. Clients should work with their Financial Advisor to develop investment strategies tailored to their own financial circumstances. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. The name Hardee Investment Group refers to a group of Financial Advisor working in the Houston, Texas office of RBC Wealth Management. The Hardee Investment Group is not a separate legal or corporate entity. All services offered and all memberships referenced in the presentation refer to the services offered or registrations held through RBC Wealth Management. RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets LLC, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC. RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets LLC, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC.

Trust and Confidence If you are tired of second guessing your investment decisions, we can help.

Since 1977, we have been providing families and business financial guidance that is always In The Client’s Best Interest.

Hardee Investment Group

Hardee Investment Group (713) 853-0879 • (800) 838-0757 www.hardeeinvestmentgroup.com

© 2012 RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC.

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PREPARING FOR DIVORCE: PROTECTING YOURSELF, YOUR FAMILY AND YOUR ASSETS Thoughts from Chad Pinkerton of the Pinkerton Law Firm, PLLC

T

tives, friends and neighbors. You and your lawyer should pick the timing of your actions and control the release of information.

• Know your finances – including your assets and liabilities – and know which financial institutions are holding your money and how much is there. Set some money aside for the prosecution of your case. Divorces cost money. Winning costs more.

• Refrain from the active use of social media. Online postings of messages, texts, photos and even re-purposed content can be a case killer. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and the rest of those sites create evidence, and it’s always bad.

• Collect your thoughts on what you want, and define what a “win” is for you. Time with your children? The family residence or vacation homes? Stocks and 401k assets?

Items of art, furniture or family heirlooms that are especially meaningful to you? What about your pets? Decide in advance what you want, and share that with your lawyer.

The steps you take before your plans for divorce are revealed can save you time, heartache and money. Once the romance has ended, the reality of a business negotiation takes over, and that is something for which few spouses are fully prepared. Don’t go it alone. Engage a professional. And, if you need additional information, feel free to contact my office in Houston. I wish you happiness and security.

he emotional impact of divorce can tear families apart, damage long-standing friendships and put the financial health of both spouses at risk, not to mention the toll it takes on a couple’s children, impacting them for the rest of their lives.

To put it bluntly, divorce is a nasty business for most couples. While it is possible to be fair and still be tough when dealing with issues of family law, my job is to represent my clients, many of whom struggle in the early stages of their divorce because they didn’t prepare themselves for the process.

If you are contemplating a divorce from your spouse, allow me to offer a few suggestions that can fortify not only you, but your case.

• Prepare yourself mentally. There will undoubtedly be low points as the process unfolds, and you may benefit from private, confidential discussions with a professional counselor, therapist or a trusted member of the clergy. I suggest you seek this counsel before you initiate divorce proceedings.

• Do your homework. The selection of a capable lawyer experienced in family law is essential. Once you have done your research and spoken with the attorney about your case, I suggest you put your lawyer on retainer well in advance of your filing. Give your lawyer time for advance planning so that there is no need for a “rush to the courthouse.”

• Be cautious about sharing your plans with rela-

LAWYER. WARRIOR. “Voted one of the TOP 10 Lawyers in Texas.”

– TOPS in America

Chad Pinkerton, The Pinkerton Law Firm, PLLC Principal Office at 5020 Montrose Boulevard, Suite 550, Houston, TX 77006 713-360-6802 • ChadPinkerton.com

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! y l e t u l o s b a Let our awards speak for us HERMES •

2014 Platinum Winner: Fort Bend Focus 100 Most Fascinating Things About Fort Bend

• 2014 Gold Winner: Fort Bend Focus First Annual Focus Favs • 2014 Honorable Mention: absolutely! Memorial Memorial’s Model Gardener Kelly Emberg • 2014 Honorable Mention: absolutely! Brazos Lunches of Love

MARCOM •

2013 Platinum Winner: Fort Bend Focus 100 Most Fascinating Things About Fort Bend

• 2013 Gold Winner: Fort Bend Focus Fort Bend Focus Honors the 2012 Jewels of Fort Bend • 2013 Gold Winner: absolutely! focus media Marketing/Promo Campaign/Branding Refresh

TEXANA •

2013 - 2014 Platinum Winner: absolutely! Brazos Media of the Year Award

BRAZOS • FORT BEND • KATY • MEMORIAL

www.absolutelyfocusmedia.com 281.690.4242

• Hermes Creative Awards is an international competition for creative professionals involved in the concept, writing and design of traditional materials and programs, and emerging technologies.

• MarCom Awards is a creative competition for any individual or company involved in the concept, writing and design of print, visual, audio and web materials and programs.

• Texana Center’s Media of the Year Award received at the organization’s 4th Annual Reaching for the Stars Awards Ceremony.

F

amily Night at the Movies used to mean traveling to the theater, but today the expansion of movie formats means that you can watch movies almost anywhere.

Since the mid-summer crop of “blockbusters” has been a tad underwhelming, we thought it would be a good time to look at a few films soon to be available for streaming and rental to discover a few perfect for Family Night at the Movies.

By Christopher Hill

Disney 2014

ollywood produces a lot of post apocalyptic futures.

Similar to Hunger Games, Divergent is yet another to showcase a bleak future for mankind. Here, Chicago is a walled off city where people are divided into factions featuring shared human traits. For over 100 years, this system has held peace, but for some unexplained reason, one of the factions has decided that a balance of power is not enough.

Thrown in the middle is young adult Beatrice Prior (Shailene Woodley), who must choose her faction and live with her decision. The coming of age theme is present throughout as she fights hard to win approval and respect inside her new faction.

Despite financial success, Divergent seemed to fly under the radar screen. It should not have. It is a solid movie night candidate for those with older teenagers, especially if you have girls. The premise is unique in the genre, more than just a Hunger Games knockoff. The storyline intrigue will hold your interest, and for a few hours, Divergent serves as an enjoyable escape.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Release: August 5th

H

D

isneynature brings bears to life in this spectacularly filmed feature. Highlighting a grizzly bear mother in the coastal and mountain ranges of Alaska, the film features her journey with her newborn cubs. While the storyline is cliché and rather vanilla, visually the picture is stellar. Seeing the Alaskan countryside in full panoramic glory definitely invites you to contact your travel agent.

Sure, it would have been nice if the film was more educational, but that’s a nit pic. The film moves along at a solid clip, and at only 77 minutes is a perfect film for your younger family members.

MPAA Rating: G Release: August 12th TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

Disneynature 2014

Summit Entertainment 2014

H

ow can you not love the Muppets? At their best, the Muppets are witty, self-deprecating fun. At their worst, they remain solid entertainment.

In 2011, they returned to the big screen in what was the best family film of the year. Is the follow up Muppets Most Wanted as good? As the Muppets say in the opening song montage of the film, “The sequel is never as good as the original.” It may not be as much nostalgic fun, but so what? It is great to have a Muppet film, and this movie is perfect for a night in with the family. Fantastic performances from Ricky Gervais, Tina Fey and scene-stealing work by Ty Burrell all add to a comedy worth “Mana Mahna-ing” about.

MPAA Rating: G Release: August 12th

.com • August 2014

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By Zeenat Kassam Mitha

The Land of Enchantment

S

ome of the best things about going home are appreciating nature, enjoying the arts and devoting a part of my life to what I believe is the reason for our existence. It is easy when God’s beauty is in your backyard.

Now when I visit, for a moment I forget that another type of world exists. Home is New Mexico, the Land of Enchantment. In particular, home is Albuquerque and Santa Fe, where much of my youth was spent. My parents moved to Albuquerque in 1977 and have settled hundreds of people there as part of their community service; hence, they have made it their permanent home. Therefore, my visits to New Mexico are often.

Each time I reminisce and leave feeling blessed to have had such an extraordinary place to grow up.

Southwestern culture is about lifestyle, nature, cuisine and art. Some of my favorite memories include camping and hiking trips in the Sandia Mountains, spending evenings at Albuquerque’s Old Town, biking the mountain trails, weekend trips to Jemez Falls, going up in a hot air balloon during the world’s largest balloon fiesta, visiting museums, driving up the Sandia mountains and riding the tram to the Sandia Peak and having a breathtaking view of God’s glory that lay below. This was the same tram we took when we went skiing in the winter and didn’t want to drive up to the ski lodge. We lived at the base of the mountain, seven miles from the tram, so getting to 10,378 feet was minutes away.

I am writing this while in Santa Fe, and I remember the fond memories of this city from as far back as 35 years.

I went there often in my youth. As an adult, I try and make this pilgrimage once a year. I spend my time here wisely as there is much to do and so little time.

Watching Don Pasquale at the Santa Fe Opera: Zeenat Mitha with Sarah and Rahim Kassam.

Everything from walking around Santa Fe Old Town to visiting art galleries, restaurants and museums still gives my soul that feeling of warmth and awe.

The Georgia O’Keefe Museum and The New Mexico Museum of Art are a must-see. Not much further is white water rafting. I particularly like to take in the Santa Fe Playhouse and Santa Fe Opera during the June to August season. This trip, I enjoyed two outstanding performances at the Santa Fe Opera, Carmen and Don Pasquale. More than 50 percent of the audience of approximately 85,000 comes from outside of New Mexico from every state, as well as from 25 to 30 countries. The Santa Fe Opera House is a vision of beauty. The opera festival here has taken its place among the world’s leading opera festivals. During the winter, Santa Fe has a lovely ski resort with a great ski school for children and adults.

I have several favorite restaurants in Santa Fe, but the top two on my list are Restaurant Martin and Geronimo.

At Restaurant Martin, Chef Martin Rios and his wife, Jennifer, grow their own herbs on the premises and create an outstanding dining experience with a spectacular ambiance. Featured in the 2008 season of Iron Chef America, Chef Rios has also won the Robert Mondavi Culinary Award of Excellence. Restaurant Martin has also been a semi-finalist for five years for the James Beard Award.

Geronimo offers an exceptional culinary experience. The restaurant atmosphere is elegant and offers romantic

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.com • August 2014

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dining with great service. Geronimo is a Mobil Four Star and AAA Four Diamond rated restaurant. Other Santa Fe restaurants at the top of my list include Compound and Fuego.

In Albuquerque, I thoroughly enjoy the dining experience found at Farm and Table. The seasonal dishes are fresh and filled with flavor, and the service is exceptional. The others at the top of my list include The Grove, Scarpas, Jennifer James 101, Nick and Jimmy’s and Farina Alto.

For hotels in Santa Fe, you may want to consider The Eldorado, La Fonda on the Plaza, La Posada de Santa Fe, Hotel Chimayo de Santa Fe, Buffalo Thunder Resort and Casino or The Doubletree.

For hotels in Albuquerque, you may want to consider The Hyatt Regency Albuquerque, Embassy Suites, Hotel Albuquerque, Andaluz, Hyatt Tamaya Resort, Sandia Resort and Casino or the Holiday Inn Albuquerque Airport.

Growing up, my life revolved around faith, family, friends, service and nature.

As I look back, I now understand why coming back home has its privileges. It inspires me to continue the same trend with my family. The wonderful thing about traveling to New Mexico is that it is only one state away from Texas, and there is something for every age group.

It is a quick flight and an easy drive to visit the Land of Enchantment!

TO SHARE YOUR IDEAS

for upcoming cultural stories and events, contact Cultural Correspondent Zeenat Kassam Mitha at zeenat@fortbendfocus.com

Beautiful Views From Your Future Colorado Home Site

You may have dreamt about a retirement house in Colorado or just a vacation home. You may want to consider a master planned development that offers much needed utilities. This beautiful waterfront lot with picturesque mountain views in Pagosa Springs is close to the family-owned Wolf Creek Ski Area and the mineral springs that made Pagosa Springs famous. This lot is approximately .24 acres in the Pagosa Lakes development that has all utilities as well as several fishing lakes, a golf course and other amenities. $89,000

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TRAVEL

By Lara Bell

I

Labor Day Fun!

know school has just started for most, but Labor Day is literally the last hurrah of summer. Since there is a three-day weekend coming up at the end of this month, we rounded up some of our staff favorites for fun weekend getaways. All you have left to do is pack a bag, and enjoy!

Lakeway Resort and Spa Cap off your summer with a Labor Day Weekend stay at Lakeway Resort and Spa where families can enjoy sunset sailing cruises, poolside movies, fun in the resort’s Kid Zone and more. Just a short drive from Houston, Lakeway Resort and Spa is the ideal spot for a Labor Day Weekend getaway, where fully redesigned guest rooms create a modern living space built with families in mind.

But it’s the outdoors that keep families busy with three outdoor pools including a kids’ pool with new water features like giant hoses and pop fountains that will have the little ones entertained for hours. When the afternoon heats up, the Kid Zone is an indoor oasis with fun-filled activity

and separate bedrooms.

The expansive property located at 63rd Street and the Seawall provides every guest with beautiful waterfront views of Galveston beach. Enjoy private balconies, themed outdoor pools, whirlpool hot tubs, a tennis court, a fitness center, a barbecue/picnic area and meeting facilities.

Make your Labor Day unforgettable with the Victorian’s three-night special. Guests can stay Friday through Sunday for just $200 per night plus taxes in a one-bedroom condominium.

www.victoriancondo.com

areas featuring arts and crafts, board games, video games and lots of space to run and play. While kids play the day away, adults can find time to relax by the adults-only pool, relieve stress in the San Saba Spa or enjoy dinner for two at Masterson’s Steakhouse.

www.lakewayresortandspa.com

The Victorian Condo-Hotel Resort & Conference Center The Victorian is the island destination for visitors who seek the comforts of home with the amenities of a hotel.

Only steps away from the Gulf of Mexico, each condo features furnished living and dining room areas with sleeper sofas, full-size baths, equipped kitchens

Muffie the Clown provides facepainting fun at The Woodlands Resort.

The Woodlands Resort Labor Day weekend will be full of fun activities at The Woodlands Resort. First, there will be all of the excitement of floating their brand new 1,000 foot lazy river. Plus, there will be live entertainment all day Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Poolside around the Forest Oasis Waterscape, kids will find face painting, crafts, hula hoop contests, snow cones, water limbo, a balloon artist and more throughout the day. Muffie the Clown, DJ Mike and Puffy the Pinecone will also be on hand to celebrate the last summer fling, and every evening features s’mores and a dive-in movie.

www.woodlandsresort.com

Lakeway Resort and Spa.

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La Toretta Lake Resort & Spa For Labor Day Weekend 2014, the more families play at La Torretta Lake Resort & Spa on Lake Conroe, the more they save. The AAA Four Diamond lakeside Texas resort is wrapping up summer with its “Play More, Save More” savings, valid Labor Day weekend, where guests can save 20 percent on a two-night stay and 30 percent off a stay of three nights or more.

The all-suite resort on Lake Conroe offers families an amazing water park with multiple pools, Lay-Z River Rapids and twisting water slides, miniature golf, 18 holes of championship golf, and new this year, paddleboats, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards on Lake Conroe available for rent by the hour.

Just steps from the resort’s Aqua Park is the Breeze Buster pool, Splash Scape pool with in-water playground and the Pollywogs pool for small children.

When out of the water, families can enjoy La Torretta’s miniature golf course, lighted for night play, five lighted, hard-surface tennis courts, indoor racquetball courts and a spacious fitness center. Clubs, racquets and balls are provided at no charge. Or, relax on the resort’s private white, sandy beach where kids can build sandcastles and enjoy the lakeside view.

www.latorrettalakeresort.com

and newly appointed Executive Sous Chef John “JJ” Earnest now at the helm of Market Street Kitchen restaurant and Market Street Bar, the playful, modern American menu with regional accents continues to evolve with creative entrees and numerous small plates. On the beverage side, an extensive wine selection with bottle, glass or flight offerings is complemented by both traditional and contemporary cocktails plus artisan microbrews and beer imports.

Concert goers will love the proximity of Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, just steps away and a wealth of other dining, shopping and entertainment offerings within walking distance of the hotel and along the Waterway.

www.marketstreetthewoodlands. hyatt.com

Lone Star Court Austin’s new retro-inspired boutique hotel and its restaurant, The Water Trough, are now open in the Domain and are garnering lots of buzz.

Lone Star Court is an upscale motor court concept by Valencia Group. The hotel has an aesthetic that’s authentically Austin from the furniture in the rooms to the Hill Country-inspired outdoor environment. Lone Star Court has 123 retro-inspired guest rooms featuring 50s-style colorful Smeg refrigerators, oval braided rugs, sliding barn

Hyatt Market Street, The Woodlands Sneak Away Summer Sundays at the Hyatt Market Street, The Woodlands, and you’ll be treated to 30 percent off the Hyatt daily room rate.

With just 70 rooms, this chic, pocket-sized property is big on surprises with snazzy interiors, an intimate rooftop pool (a great place for alfresco dining and drinks) and a large fitness center all in a premier location overlooking the bustling Market Street shopping and dining district. With recently promoted Executive Chef Andrew Kramer

The poolside view at Lone Star Court.

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magazine • August 2014

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A Hyatt Market Street, The Woodlands room.

doors, linoleum floors and snacks in an antique Coca-Cola bottle crate, in addition to high-tech amenities.

The hotel features live music by an outdoor fire pit and a dipping pool reminiscent of Hill Country swimming holes. Most days, the barbecue grill is smoking. Lone Star Court’s full-service restaurant, The Water Trough, has a Texas-centric menu and full bar featuring signature cocktail “The Chill Cowboy,” along with other creative cocktails. The hotel also features an on-site food truck court anchored by Lone Star Court’s signature food truck, The Feed Store.

www.lonestarcourt.com

NEWSWORTHY

Fort Bend Cares Grants Over $160,000 to 22 Area Charities

Walt White, Lisa Rickert, Ratha Liladrie, Angie Wierzbicki and Robert Coffman.

The Seiko Nation is progressively connected by a drive for relentless innovation. Landon Donovan shares Seiko’s passion for progress.

With winning moves, on the soccer field and off, Landon chooses LE GRAND SPORT KINETIC. It never needs a battery change because it’s powered by the movement of your body. When you’re not wearing it, it goes to sleep. Put it on, the hands return to the correct time. With a perpetual calendar, it’s another way Seiko puts progressive watchmaking into motion. SeikoUSA.com

2735 Town Center Blvd N, Suite E Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-491-2930 • www.zeeneez.com MON - SAT 10-7; SUN Noon-6

Rodney # 1 Lerner

Top Producing Team in Sugar Land #1 Producing Team 2012 & 2013

Commercial / Residential Licensed Broker Associate Houston Association of Realtors Ranks by ALL previous clients 4.97 out of 5 stars Top 25 Residential Real Estate Team 2012 & 2013 – Houston Business Journal 30 years experience

Call Rodney: 16525 Lexington Blvd, Ste 260 Sugar Land, TX 77479

When you are buying or selling a home, you want an experienced, competent agent that provides -

Answers, Guidance & Service.

That’s exactly what I’m offering.

713-705-1859 rdlrealty@aol.com

Rodney is the agent who has negotiated property sales and leasing on behalf of:

And many others!

Hire Rodney and put his expertise to work for you.

The numbers are big. Over 20,000 disadvantaged children and youth in Fort Bend County will be helped in some way through $160,110 in grants to 22 area non-profits. Fort Bend Cares assembled the charities, volunteers and key sponsors for its annual grant reception on Monday, June 9th at Silver Eagle Distributors in Rosenberg to give out the awards.

Everyone was on hand to celebrate Fort Bend Cares’ work the last 10 years in the community, ultimately granting just over $1.2 million since inception. The organization’s thorough grants process still remains at a unique grass-roots level, engaging almost 40 community volunteers. Grants Committee Chairperson Robert Coffman said, “The committee did a lot of research and had to make many tough decisions. They are diligent so as to ensure their recommendations to the Board of Trustees have been examined carefully and thoughtfully.”

Some of the local non-profits that received grants included Pooh’s Panda Special Needs Academy for summer camp and childcare for children with special needs and their siblings and Knowledge First Empowerment Center for its drop-out prevention program and GED prep classes for those who have already dropped out of school.

The Rosenberg Railroad Museum was awarded the Founders Grant, now in its second year. The grant is named after cofounders Dr. Robert McClendon and Jim Rice. It will help the museum provide free educational programming and field trips for Title 1 schools in Fort Bend.

“So many valuable organizations do so much important work in Fort Bend County assisting the children, youth and families that may need help, and ultimately strengthening our community as a whole,” said Fort Bend Cares Executive Director Angie Wierzbicki.

Board Chairperson Walt White added, “We are excited to be able to support these dedicated charities by helping to bridge the gap. We couldn’t do it without our business sponsors, individual donors and volunteers. And we can’t wait to increase the support to the hard-working non-profits next year.”

Broker Associate TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • August 2014

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Fort Bend Cares raises money for the grants through a variety of events and individual contributions. Its signature event, “Road Trip,” is scheduled for Saturday, February 7th, 2015 at Fluor in Sugar Land and brings in the most funds. The organization is looking for sponsors and volunteers for this event and other activities. To get involved, contact Wierzbicki at 832819-2005 or angie@fortbendcares.org.

For a full list of grant recipients and more information on Fort Bend Cares, visit www.fortbendcares.org.

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Fort Bend Friends and Neighbors Fall Luncheon

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Sugar Land Town Square . Houston/ Sugar Land Hwy 59 & Hwy 6 . 918-935-3254

Shirley Panetti, Monica Lehrer, Dr. Shelena Lalji, Marsha Sachs and Melanie Hartshorn.

thevintagepearl.com

The ladies of Fort Bend Friends and Neighbors Social Club are planning their Fall Luncheon on Wednesday, September 17th. Doors open at 10:45 am at Sweetwater Country Club, located at 4400 Palm Royale Blvd. in Sugar Land.

The September luncheon will serve as the annual membership drive and activity sign-up for the organization. Fort Bend Friends and Neighbors Social Club activities include canasta, bridge, bunco, wine tasting, movie outings and monthly coffees.

The luncheon features speaker Dr. Shelena Lalji (Dr. Shel), founder and medical director of the Dr. Shel Wellness & Medical Spa in Sugar Land. Dr. Shel has been inspiring and educating women and men on how to live their best life possible for nearly 20 years. The style show features Glorious Styles by Gloria Soto from Fredericksburg. Glorious Styles is a portable boutique specializing in seasonless and timeless styles for all women.

Deadline for reservations is Thursday, September 11th. For more information, email vpluncheons@fbfn.org.

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Special Advertising Section Coming September 2014

Home Is Where the Heart Is • • • • • •

Banks Developers Financial Institutions Furniture and Décor Home Builders Home Improvements

• • • • • •

Insurance Interior Designers Landscape Architects Pool and Spa Services Real Estate Yard Maintenance

To Advertise: 281-690-4242 www.fortbendfocus.com TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • August 2014

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NEWSWORTHY

Aloha to the New School Year . . .

Golf “Fore” Student Success

Say “aloha” to the new school year on August 25th at Sweetwater Country Club at the Back to School Scramble Golf Tournament. Pictured are committee members Allan Holley, Chair Claude Leatherwood, Kyle Dawson, Carol Scott, Sue Chiang, Peggy Jackson, Mary Ahner, Ron Bailey, Lina Sabouni, Carol Evans, Kay James, John Wantuch and John Haskew.

Gorgeous Hill Country Home Site Waterfront Lot in Comal County Just 20 minutes from San Antonio and minutes from the Guadalupe River in Spring Branch, this 1.72 acre lot is your Hill Country dream come true!

Amazing views on the hillside lot that features a meadow with waterfront along Spring Creek, The Crossing at Spring Creek, an acreage home site community, is the perfect place to build your Hill Country getaway. The community offers all underground utilities, paved, county maintained roads, plus a beautiful 10+ acre owners-only park with scenic hiking trails, a swimming pool and pavilion and a playground.

REDUCED $82,500

Plan now to golf fore education in the Fort Bend Education Foundation’s (FBEF) 15th annual Back to School Scramble golf tournament scheduled for Monday, August 25th at Sweetwater Country Club.

Schlumberger is presenting the Back to School Scramble chaired by Claude Leatherwood, and lunch is provided by Chick-fil-A. Entry fee includes lunch, golf and cart, beverages, dinner reception and special gifts. Sponsorship opportunities are available, along with Foursome Teams for $1,000 and individual entries for $275.

The Education Foundation touches every school in Fort Bend ISD. Since its inception, the Education Foundation has awarded over $4 million through its grants to teachers and schools. These grants enable teachers to provide innovative classroom projects for which tax dollars are not available and they help new teachers with zero years teaching experience to outfit their new classrooms.

Community participation in the annual Back to School Scramble helps make the FBEF mission a reality – to enrich and enhance the quality of education for all Fort Bend ISD students. All proceeds from the Back to School Scramble benefit the Fort Bend Education Foundation.

For information about the Back to School Scramble, contact Carol Evans at 281-634-1111 or carol.evans@fortbendisd. com or visit www.fortbendisd.com/foundation/.

For Sale By Owner

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Reading Between the Wines Co-Chairs Announced The Literacy Council of Fort Bend County is pleased to announce the cochairs for the third annual Reading Between the Wines. Dana Sitton and Bonnie Stewart will chair the February 6th, 2015 event at Safari Texas Ranch in Richmond.

The event, which is presented by Safari Texas, will again include a fascinating slate of New York Times Best Selling authors, live music, exciting live, big board and dessert auctions, food from several area restaurants, and of course, wine. This year the event will celebrate the 200th anniversary of the quotation by Thomas Jefferson, “I cannot live without books.”

Watch for an upcoming announcement for the Preface Party in September to kick off the event, meet the co-chairs and maybe even an author or two.

Presenting sponsorship opportunities and all other levels are available ranging from $500 to $7,500. Sponsor benefits include admission to a pre-event reception with the authors, reserved premier seating, complimentary program advertisement and more. Individual admissions are $100.

Contact Cari Middaugh at the Literacy Council at cmiddaugh@ftbendliteracy. org or 281-240-8181 for more information about sponsorships, admission or volunteering at the event.

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Grand Fedrick Harris designed 2-story home nestled on quiet cul-de-sac in the heart of First Colony. Home features both formals+family rm; rich hardwood flrs; cook’s kitchen w/gas cook top, tile flrs & huge island; secluded 1st flr master retreat+master bathrm has whirlpool tub w/glass block window, separate shower, his & her closets. 2nd flr offers spacious game rm+bonus rm, 4 bedrms, 2 baths & computer area. Serene tropical backyard w/ivy covered pergola. Zoned to EXCELLENT schools!

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Co-Chairs Bonnie Stewart and Dana Sitton prepare for the upcoming Reading Between the Wines at the Telfair HEB Wine Department.

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NEWSWORTHY

FBJSL and Sponsors Meet “Under the Mistletoe” for Charity

Laura Taylor and Sheila Cooper, Sugar Plum Market; Jamie Hill, Pamela Printing; Debbie Buckner, FBJSL; Ann Smith, Pamela Printing; Catherine Kubala, Sugar Plum Market; Patti Parish-Kaminski, absolutely! focus media; Kaelyn Bujnoch and Leena Taneja, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital; Bernice King, Mercedes-Benz of Sugar Land; Travis Van Horn, Trustmark Bank; Sherri Ebarb and Stephanie Van Horn, Sugar Plum Market.

The Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) and Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital (HMSLH) invite the community to join them as they meet “Under the Mistletoe” for the 14th annual Sugar Plum Market. The event will again be held at the Stafford Centre Performing Arts Theatre and Convention Center Friday, November 7th and Saturday, November 8th. Preview Night has been set for the evening of Thursday, November 6th.

Last year’s Market raised a record

$223,000 which was given to 17 local Fort Bend charities. The Sugar Plum Market committee appreciates the community’s role in its success and welcomes the continued support for the 2014 Market. “Mercedes-Benz of Sugar Land has always been committed to supporting the Fort Bend community, and we applaud the excellent work being done by the Fort Bend Junior Service League. I am very pleased that we will have the ability to reach out to so many local charities through our second annu-

The Andreason Law Firm Now you don’t have to drive to Houston for experienced Estate Planning.

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al sponsorship of the Sugar Plum Market,” said Kenneth Enders, owner and president of Mercedes-Benz of Sugar Land.

Sponsorship and underwriting opportunities for the Market are available ranging from $250 to $5,000 with a variety of benefits suited to both individuals and businesses such as event signage, website and program recognition, plus Preview Night tickets with early sponsor entry.

In addition to the Sugar Plum Market’s title sponsor, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, top sponsors to date include the City of Stafford, Pamela Printing, Mercedes-Benz of Sugar Land, Trustmark Bank, absolutely! focus media, HEB and Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine.

General Admission tickets are $10, and Preview Night tickets are $75. Both will be available for purchase September 1st. For information on sponsorship opportunities, visit www.sugarplummarket. com or call 281-636-6272.

The 5th Annual American Cancer Society Couture for the Cause Co-Chairs Break Ground for Upcoming Fashion Show

NEWSWORTHY

Plans are well under way – literally – for the 5th Annual American Cancer Society Couture for the Cause. The Couture for the Cause co-chairs and committee are breaking ground to construct what is going to be a fabulous, fun and chic fashion show event over a swimming pool, scheduled for Saturday, October 18th, at the home of KK and S. Scott West.

Couture for the Cause Co-Chairs Jill and Jim Gibson, Amy and Dan Johnson, Cari and Scott Middaugh and KK and S. Scott West invite supporters to join them for a party with a purpose, A Night in Versailles, Masquerade Style! Already joining the team are Tara and Rick Ray of Wealth Design Group as the Couture for the Cause Presenting Sponsor for the second year in a row. Other sponsors to date include the Durham Families, Toni and Mike Baches, Johnson Development, Massage Heights Voss at Sugar

S. Scott and KK West, Jill and Jim Gibson, Dan and Amy Johnson and Cari and Scott Middaugh.

Land & Katy, The West Law Firm, Yard Card Greetings, The Millis Group, Inc., Tamara Osina-Felinski, DDS, EOR Energy Services, LLC, Champion Counseling, NewFirst Bank, Amy and Dan Johnson and Veronica and Edward Sessom.

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Houston’s fashion and event producer Lenny Matuszewski will produce the runway show, which will feature couture fashions presented by models whose lives have been touched by cancer. Empire Faces will provide make-up services, and Milagro Salons will provide hair salon style.

Did you know that no single nongovernmental, not-for-profit organization in the U.S. has invested more to find the causes and cures for cancer than the American Cancer Society? Events like Couture for the Cause help fund research and education programs for the American Cancer Society.

Sponsorship opportunities are available for Couture for the Cause starting at $500. Tickets to enjoy the show are $100 per person. This is a limited space at the event, which also features a Champagne and Diamonds raffle featuring a gorgeous diamond donated by J Loggins Jewelers. Wine connoisseurs can replenish their cellars with wines from the Wine Pull or honor/memorialize a loved one who has been affected by cancer. Small bites will be provided by local restaurants, and drinks will be served by Black Tie Company, including special Signature Cocktails.

Visit www.coutureforthecause.org, www.facebook.com/coutureforthecause or contact Valerie Marun at 713-7065684 or valerie.marun@cancer.org for more information.

GUIDE TO

absolutely! Finest in

Medicine Health Ca r e N e w s Yo u C a n U s e

Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Gives Back to Fort Bend ISD

D. Dean Dominy, III, M.D., Kenneth M. Renney, M.D., Jeffrey B. Wood, M.D., Eddie T. Matsu, M.D., Mark W. Maffet, M.D., Timothy C. Sitter, M.D., Vincent C. Phan, M.D., Carl A. Hicks, M.D., Ray R. Valdez, M.D., David A. Braunreiter, M.D., Anthony J. Muffoletto, M.D. and Jeffrey A. Kozak, D.O.

H

ouston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine in Sugar Land offers their annual sports physicals for Fort Bend and Alief Independent School Districts’ middle school and high school athletes.

They have been associated with these school districts for more than 15 years as team physicians.

University Interscholastic League (UIL) requires all high school athletes to undergo and pass a physical examination prior to participating in sports. Physical evaluations include testing height, weight, vision, blood pressure, pulse, ears, nose, throat, heart, lungs, abdomen, spine and all joints in the upper and lower body. Physicians discuss the athletes’ medical history and consult with them and their parents if further evaluation is necessary prior to releasing them to participate in sports.

“We truly enjoy working with the schools in Fort Bend County,” said Dr. Vincent Phan, orthopedic surgeon and team physician. “I grew up here and actually went to Elsik High School, so it is an honor to come back and support the players.”

Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine in Sugar Land gener-

ously donates proceeds that are generated from the physical examinations back to the school’s athletic training programs. In the last five years, this group of physicians has donated more than $250,000 back to local schools. Athletic trainers use this money to purchase the necessary equipment for the upcoming school year.

“Partnering with this physician group has allowed me the ability to buy better rehab equipment for those students who get hurt on the field,” said June Tomlin, athletic trainer at Elkins High School. Other local high schools have used the money donated for things such as Under Armour game shirts and practice t-shirts for student athletic trainers, braces for the athletes, winter jackets for student athletic trainers, rehab equipment, team plaques and student athletic trainer field trips.

Performing physical examinations is just part of being the team physician. Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine physicians support coaches, athletic trainers and players throughout the school year, according to Randy Cunningham, head coach at Travis High School. “With the help of these physicians, we can rest assured

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magazine • August 2014

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that our athletes are in good hands and are receiving the care they need and deserve,” Cunningham said.

“It is a privilege to work hands on with an exceptional group of athletic trainers and coaches,” said Dr. Timothy Sitter, orthopedic surgeon and team physician. “I thoroughly enjoy the relationship that we have developed with the Fort Bend ISD and Alief ISD staff and look forward to continuing to work together in the future.”

On Saturday, August 9th, Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine will host Extracurricular Pre-Participation Physicals and Health Expo from 9 am to noon at Wheeler Field House, 16403 Lexington Boulevard in Sugar Land. Orthopedic, sports medicine and cardiology specialists will be on site to provide additional clearance as needed.

The cost is $20 cash for ages 12 to 18.

Be sure to also bring the UIL Physician Evaluation form, which can be printed off at houstonmethodist.org/student-physicalssugar-land. Students receiving a physical will also receive a free t-shirt. For more information, call 281-340-6420 or e-mail athletictrainer@houstonmethodist.org.

See ad on Back Cover.

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absolutely! Finest in Medicine Kidney Cancer Diagnosis Surprises Gundy

When Glenn Gundy sought emergency care for abdominal pain, he never imagined he would receive an unrelated diagnosis of kidney cancer. “This is often how smaller tumors are found,” said Zachary Mucher, MD, a Memorial Hermann affiliated urologist who sees patients in Sugar Land and Wharton. Gundy met Dr. Mucher, the on-call urologist at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, named one of the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals™ in 2014 by Truven Health. “Dr. Mucher informed me that the CT scan and ultrasound showed a tumor on my left kidney and asked if I wanted to see the images,” said the 57 year-old Fluor employee.

Gundy soon learned he was a candidate for a partial kidney removal. “Mr. Gundy was a good candidate for robotic partial nephrectomy because of the size and location of his tumor,” explained Dr. Mucher. After his hospital discharge, Gundy researched the procedure and local urologists. He kept coming back to Dr. Mucher. “There was something about him, his bedside manner, his level of confidence and assuredness, that seemed right for me and my family,” said Gundy.

Two weeks later, Gundy underwent the surgery and a two-night hospital stay.

“Two weeks after the surgery, I was walking a mile a day,” said Gundy.

“This robotic procedure was perfect for Mr. Gundy’s condition,” said Dr. Mucher. “The 360-degree wrist motion provided by the da Vinci® robot allows me to suture more quickly. This is important because it minimizes the time you clamp off blood flow to the kidney, helping to preserve kidney function.”

For more information, visit www.memorialhermann.org.

See ad on page 9.

Dr. David H. Korfin Provides Personalized Treatment Plans for Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Surgery David H. Korfin, DPM, FACFAS is board certified in Foot and Ankle Surgery by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. He received his doctorate of Podiatric Medicine in 1982, graduating from Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine. Dr. Korfin has been in private practice in the Fort Bend/Houston community since 1984. He specializes in reconstructive surgery of the foot and ankle, including endoscopic heel surgery, bunions and hammertoes along with treatment and management of sports injuries, trauma, wound and diabetic foot care. Dr. Korfin’s practice provides care to patients of all ages with a special interest in helping athletes maintain foot and ankle health to effectively pursue their athletic goals.

Striving to provide a personalized treatment plan, Dr. Korfin utilizes state-ofthe-art medical and surgical techniques all within a warm, caring and compassionate environment. He offers his patients cutting-edge surgical techniques such as endoscopic heel surgery, laser surgery and the use of dissolvable pins and fixation techniques.

Dr. Korfin’s office is located in the Sugar Land Medical Plaza (attached to St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital) at 1327 Lake Pointe Parkway, Suite 510 in Sugar Land. For more information, visit www.drdavidkorfin.com or call 281.313.FEET (3338).

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

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Dr. Ankur Mehta Provides Surgical Excellence at Timeless Plastic Surgery With roots in Sugar Land, Dr. Ankur Mehta provides “Concierge” plastic surgery for the community he loves. Dr. Mehta has had the opportunity to operate with many well-known and respected plastic surgeons in the community, including but not limited to those at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) at Galveston, MD Anderson and St. Joseph’s Medical Center. Dr. Mehta attends many of the annual plastic surgery meetings, keeping him up to date on some of the latest innovations and trends in plastic surgery.

Dr. Mehta is skilled and experienced in all aspects of cosmetic surgery including breast augmentations, liposuction, facelifts, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), Timeless Tucks (abdominoplasty with liposuction), breast lifts, Botox, Xeomin and dermal fillers. Dr. Mehta’s bedside manner, close communication, surgical experience and knowledge leave his patients feeling comfortable, informed and understood.

When asked about the ultimate goal as a plastic/cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Mehta stated, “To safely achieve the patient’s desired look with surgical excellence. I want my patients to feel self-confident about their physical appearance, and I want my patients to feel like family when they step into Timeless Plastic Surgery.

Every patient is unique and special, so it is important that they are shown that individualized attention and care.”

To schedule a complimentary consultation, call 281-242-TIME (8463). For more information and to see real patient photos and testimonials, visit www.TimelessPlasticSurgery.com.

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281-313-FEET (3338) 1327 Lake Pointe Pkwy, Ste 510 • Sugar Land, Texas 77478 Located in the Professional Building attached to St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital

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“

Call today and take the first step to walking in comfort!

• Diplomate, American Board of Podiatric Surgery • Board Certified Foot & Ankle Surgery • Certified Wound Care Specialist • Serving Fort Bend for over 25 years • Fellow, American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons • Past President & Current Member of the Harris County Podiatric Medical Society.

• Member of the Texas Podiatric Medical Association • Member of the American Podiatric Medical Association • Preferred Provider for most Private Insurance Plans

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Dr. Greg A. Linney, D.D.S., Inc: Making Patients Smile for 30 Years Dr. Greg Linney and his staff set themselves apart by focusing on customer service and long term dental health. The doctor and his friendly staff take the time to listen to all of your oral health concerns. Equipped with a spacious, high-tech facility, they utilize the latest tools and technology to provide patients with the best in oral health care and cosmetic dentistry.

Dr. Linney’s office now offers patients OralID, which provides a way to examine for early cancer detection. OralID uses a fluorescence light technology that allows Dr. Linney to identify oral cancer, pre-cancer and other abnormal lesions at an earlier stage, which could help save lives. By merging patient care with technology, Dr. Linney and his staff are able to provide the best care available while focusing on each patient’s individual needs.

Dr. Linney has been making people smile for 30 years and through Lumineers

by Cerinate, he can restore a person’s smile without reducing tooth structure in only two visits with no shots and no drilling! Just imagine having a lasting smile without ever bleaching again.

Get the smile you have always wanted. Call Dr. Linney’s office and let him help you get the smile you deserve. Greg A. Linney, D.D.S., Inc. is located at 4660 Sweetwater Boulevard in Sugar Land. For more information, visit www.drlinney. com or call 281-980-1733.

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Dr. Michael Koop Provides All of the Care You Need for Vision Problems Is your vision slowly worsening?

Are you bothered by glare at night or in bright sun? You may be suffering from cataracts. Come see Dr. Michael Koop at the Texas Eye Institute to find out if it is time for new glasses or cataract surgery.

The Texas Eye Institute employs the latest techniques including small incision, stitchless surgery and the newest technology lenses that can correct astigmatism (Toric) or give distance and near vision (ReSTOR).

Are you ready to be freed from glasses and contact lenses? Do you want to wake up in the morning and read the alarm clock without your glasses or go to bed at night without removing your contact lenses?

Visit the Texas Eye Institute for a free LASIK evaluation with their experienced and caring staff. Dr. Koop is a board certified ophthalmologist with 14 years of experience. He has performed over 5,000 cataract and vision correction procedures including LASIK, PRK and astigmatism correction surgery. Dr. Bobbie Casey has over six years of experience in Optometry and is Glaucoma certified. She is trained in evaluating multiple eye conditions and is skilled at LASIK assessments and contact lens fitting.

The Texas Eye Institute offers convenient locations at 4977 Sweetwater Boulevard in Sugar Land and 7710 Beechnut, Suite 100 in Houston. For more information, visit www.txeye.com or call 281242-8841.

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Advertorial

Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists Offers PinPointe Technology and Quality Care For more than a decade, the team at Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists has been treating patients with every type of foot problem. Adults, children and seniors choose Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists for personal, quality care.

With multiple board certifications in foot surgery, Dr. Bryan Lee uses the most current techniques to reduce downtime and heal with minimal scarring.

Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists has one of Sugar Land and Houston’s only PinPointe lasers, effective for treating stubborn, unsightly nail fungus. The laser does not harm healthy tissue or affect activity in any way. A clinical study demonstrated that 81 percent of the treated patients grew a normal looking nail after just one treatment. This result is better than the success rate for prescription pills or creams, which require prolonged use and expose patients to risks of dangerous side effects.

With two convenient locations, Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists will get you back on your feet! Visit www.advancedfootdocs.com or call 281-242-FEET (3338) for more information.

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Have One or More Missing Teeth?

Have you delayed treatment because of the high cost? Dental implants have been a revolutionary breakthrough for people with missing teeth, but the high cost has prevented some from seeking care.

Well, great news!

Several times a year, C & C Dental hosts a dental implant course taught by Dr. Todd Engel, an international speaker and lecturer who founded The Engel Institute. One of the highlights of the course is live treatment on patients. Class size is limited, but if you are selected to participate, the cost savings is huge. Normally, a dental implant is priced at about $2,000. Patients for the course pay only $699! Each and every patient is seen by a licensed dentist and is overseen by Dr. Engel himself. The facilities at C & C Dental are brand new and state-ofthe-art.

Here is what one patient had to say about his experience: “I kept putting off getting an implant because of the price. The course was a great experience, very professional. I even returned for another class.

Now, I have two implants and paid less than the going price for one!”

Call C & C Dental at 281-2420241 for a free screening to see if you qualify for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

See ad on page 4.

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Regain Your Vitality!

Do you want more energy, improved focus, better sleep and increased sex drive? Have you been told that brain fog, hot flashes, night sweats, depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, low energy, low libido and weight gain are simply part of the aging process? Are you ready to start living a life full of vitality?

If you answered “yes” to any of the questions above, then you are one of many people who are becoming advocates for their wellbeing. The integrative wellness movement is rapidly gaining more attention as people like Oprah, Dr. Oz and Dr. Weil teach you to take charge of your health so you can age gracefully and feel your best by achieving complete well-being.

It is Dr. Shel’s mission to help you by giving you the time, understanding and care you deserve to get to the root of your symptoms to enjoy a life full of health, happiness and vitality. Dr. Shel Wellness and Medical Spa provides the answers and complete care you deserve. Treatments such as Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement, Weight Loss, Nutritional Testing, Gluten and Allergy Testing and Treatment and Detoxification have been life-changing for thousands of Dr. Shel’s patients and can be for you, too.

If you want to regain your vitality, call today to schedule your complimentary consultation. The Dr. Shel Wellness and Medical Spa team wants to learn about your goals, customize a wellness program for you and help you to get your life back.

For more information, call 281313-7435 or visit www.drshel.com.

See ad on page 3.

Advertorial

Brian R. Heaps, MD, FACOG Board Certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist

Welcoming new patients at

UT Physicians Women’s Center in Sugar Land 17510 West Grand Parkway South, Suite #550 Sugar Land, TX 77479

Call 713.486.1250 for appointments www.UTPhysicians.com Caring for You Above All UT Physicians Women’s Center in Sugar Land welcomes its newest provider, Dr. Brian R. Heaps, a Fellow of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Defined by his dedication to his patients and the delivery of the highest quality care, Dr. Heaps is pleased to be working in the Fort Bend community.

Dr. Heaps is motivated by the great trust that his patients have in him to take care of them during the most important phases of their lives. In fact, one of his greatest honors is being involved in the delivery of a couple’s child. As a board certified Ob/Gyn, Dr. Heaps understands that the delivery of a baby, however, is often only one aspect of what matters most in women’s care.

Knowing this, Dr. Heaps has worked to become proficient in the evaluation of common issues and has worked to become skilled in their medical and surgical treatments. He has been trained and is committed to minimally invasive surgery, including laparoscopic and robotic assisted surgery.

Through his work as the Director of Medical Informatics and Chair of Ob/Gyn and Pediatrics at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, Dr. Heaps has led the way in teaching fellow physicians and caregivers. His care for patients and his dedication to medicine has served as a foundational motivation to succeed.

Above all, Dr. Heaps is honored to serve those with whom he comes in contact.

Dr. Heaps’ office is located at 17510 West Grand Parkway South, Suite 550 in Sugar Land. For a consultation or appointment, call 713-486-1250.

fort bend

magazine • August 2014

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Advertorial

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Sugar Land Plastic Surgery Announces Lake Pointe Surgery Center Opening Sugar Land Plastic Surgery’s philosophy has always been to put patients first.

From patient education to the best technology science has to offer, their mission is to provide first class cosmetic services in a safe, welcoming environment. The Sugar Land Plastic Surgery office is truly a labor of love as evidenced by the level of attention to detail throughout the property. Patients always experience first class service at Sugar Land Plastic Surgery, both for the comfort it provides and the added services offered through their clinic.

Sugar Land Plastic Surgery has experienced tremendous growth since moving into its new office in March of 2013, and the staff at Sugar Land Plastic Surgery is pleased to announce the opening of Lake Pointe Surgery Center. Their brand new surgery center is conveniently located next door to the office and is fully equipped to perform a broad range of outpatient surgical procedures.

Much like Sugar Land Plastic Surgery, Lake Pointe Surgery Center is dedicated to delivering the utmost quality in a comfortable and convenient environment. The center abides by its mission to continue to exceed patient expectations and guarantee satisfaction by offering unparalleled services and procedures in a state-ofthe-art facility. The entire team is thrilled to start operating next door this summer!

For more information, visit www.mybodysurgeon.com or call 281-980-8000.

See ad on page 7.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • August 2014

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Enhancing the Lives of Children Every Day MedCare Pediatric Group, LP has been paving the way for Pediatric Therapy and Nursing in the Houston area for over 20 years and has become a widely known, easily recognizable choice for home health and outpatient services. MedCare offers comprehensive therapy and nursing services for patients birth to 21 years-old in the home or in one of five outpatient rehab clinics conveniently located around Houston, including Stafford. MedCare provides a range of services including occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy and private duty nursing. With MedCare’s dedication to the highest standards of care, patients’ lives are enhanced every day.

MedCare’s daily focus is care.

The organization was founded with a singular motive: to help children.

The MedCare team is dedicated to improving the health and functional abilities of children with special medical and developmental needs.

MedCare exists to provide relief and care for children and families.

The MedCare team believes in providing first class services for pediatric therapy and nursing. They strive daily to provide honest, experienced, professional, ethical, topnotch service for children in need.

MedCare partners with families to shoulder the responsibility and make a difference in the lives of children through individualized physician directed care in homes or at their facilities.

MedCare works hard to reach communities in need of quality care and convenient access to pediatric therapy and nursing services, and they strive to build strong community partnerships with physicians, hospitals, schools and related organizations with a passion for helping children grow and achieve their highest potential. For more information, call 713-995-9292 or visit www.MedCarePediatrics.com.

absolutely! Finest in Medicine

Dr. Huma’s Med Spa Now Open in Sugar Land Summer is that magical time of year with longer days, kids home from school and body-baring clothes to stay cool in the Texas heat. For some, it is an opportunity to show off their summer beach bodies, and for others it is a nightmare. Trying on a swimsuit in the department store mirror is more painful than getting a root canal!

Cellulite is the curse of women everywhere, and creams do not seem to help much. Finally, there is a solution: CellulazeTM. The latest breakthrough helping women fight the war against cellulite, Cellulaze is a laser, in-office procedure that literally removes unwanted cellulite forever.

Cellulaze is performed under local anesthesia. A small laser is gently inserted under the skin to break the fibrous bands that give the appearance of cellulite. Once these bands are broken, the chances of cellulite being visible to the eye again is very slim, and a definite improvement can be seen even after just one treatment.

Come in for a free consultation with Dr. Huma Haider, and let her explain how Cellulaze might be right for you. Dr. Huma is a board certified M.D. who specializes in laser procedures, as well as a Sugar Land resident, mother and dedicated philanthropist. Her gentle hand and keen eye for beauty and attention to detail make her a true leader in her field.

Dr. Huma’s Med Spa is located at 1531 Hwy 6 South, Suite 225 in Sugar Land. For more information, call 1-855-4DR-HUMA or visit www.

HoustonLaserMedSpa.com.

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Internationally Certified Colon Hydrotherapist & Instructor Nationally Certified Massage Therapist # ME0170 Services by appt only.

Massage Therapies • Lymphatic Drainage Massage • Lymphatic Facials Reflexology • Infra Red Saunas • Relaxing Ion Cleanse Hand & Foot Bath Chinese Cupping • Gift Certificates Colon Hydrotherapy by M.D. Prescription Only (Yours Or Ours)

NEW FORT BEND LOCATION!

1308 James Street • Rosenberg, TX 77471 fort bend

magazine • August 2014

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281-344-0095 www.joycelong.biz

absolutely! Finest in Medicine

Advertorial

Comprehensive, compassionate and cutting edge care for women of all phases.

Minimally Invasive & Robotic Surgery Adolescent Gynecology Routine and High Risk Obstetrics Wellness Exams & Contraception Evaluation & Treatment of Pelvic Pain Treatment of Menopausal Symptoms Preconception & Infertility Counseling Ann Bertles, MD Board Certified Ob/Gyn

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832.437.9690 (p) | 832.437.9694 (f) 23232 Kingsland Blvd., Ste. E, Katy, TX 77494 www.myobgynofkaty.com

Elissa R. Wedemeyer O.D. FCOVD, FAAO

Therapeutic/Optometric Glaucoma Specialist

Dr. Wedemeyer is dedicated to providing the best possible care to every patient, and places a strong emphasis on individual attention and quality time to meet patient needs.

• Medical Management of Eye Diseases Dry Eyes, Glaucoma, Kerataconus, FREE Eye Infections • Contact Lenses 2 Year Single Vision, Multifocal, Toric, Scratch warranty Gas Permeable, Refractive Therapy on your lenses • Nutritional Supplements for Age Related when you bring in this ad.

Macular Degeneration and Dry Eyes • Sunglasses for Sports and Fashion • Complete Line of Fashion and Designer Frames Medicare and Most Medical Insurance Plans Accepted

First Class Service at Sugar Land Face and Body Plastic Surgery Sugar Land Face and Body Plastic Surgery offers the following surgical procedures conveniently onsite: breast augmentation and lift, implant exchange, tummy tuck, mommy makeover, face lift, rhinoplasty, blepharoplasty, otoplasty, liposuction and body and neck lift.

While surgical procedures are an important part of helping patients look and feel their best, Dr. Eric Humble believes that rejuvenation, like health and wellness, does not start with surgery but instead is founded in nutrition, lifestyle and attitude. “While surgery can be the catalyst for creating a healthier lifestyle, there is more to overall health and wellness, and rejuvenation is an important part of that process.

Rejuvenation helps one see on the outside the way they feel on the inside,” said Dr. Humble. “I still remember the first face lift patient I operated on. After her operation, she began exercising, changed her diet and renewed her love of life. As a plastic surgeon, my reward begins with my goal of bringing out my patients’ love of life.”

With integrity and honesty, Dr. Humble consults with each patient in depth to find the best ways to enhance his or her facial features or body shape. In an effort to reach the optimum, most natural results, Dr. Humble gives his expert recommendation on each individual case, even if the course of action means a less invasive – and less expensive – method to achieve the desired aesthetic look.

For more information, call 281-313-0555 or visit www.BeautyBecomesYou.com.

See ad on page 11.

COMING OCTOBER 2014 Special Advertising Section

Breast Cancer Awareness

281.499.2600

To advertise: 281-690-4242 www.absolutelyfocusmedia.com

6026 Hwy 6 • Missouri City (corner of Hwy 6 & University) www.drwedemeyer.com TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • August 2014

64

absolutely! Finest in Medicine

Advertorial

About CHI St. Luke’s Health CHI St. Luke’s Health Sugar Land Hospital is eager to announce that they will soon be the first and only hospital in the greater Houston area and the fifth hospital in the world to be equipped with the next generation da Vinci Xi Surgical System – providing surgeons with superior real-time visualization, greater dexterity and precision during minimally invasive robotic procedures.

CHI St. Luke’s Health is dedicated to a mission of enhancing community health through high-quality, cost-effective care. In partnership with their physicians and community partners, they are committed to excellence and compassion in caring for the whole person while creating healthier communities.

CHI St. Luke’s Health is comprised of six facilities, including CHI St. Luke’s Health–Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center, a world-class quaternary care facility that is home to the Texas Heart® Institute, which was founded in 1962 by Denton A. Cooley, MD. Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center was the first hospital in Texas named a Magnet Hospital for Nursing Excellence, receiving the award three times.

CHI St. Luke’s Health is a part of Catholic Health Initiatives (CHI), one of the nation’s largest health systems. Headquartered in Englewood, Colorado, CHI operates in 18 states and includes 89 hospitals, including four academic medical centers, 23 critical-access facilities, community health services organizations, accredited nursing colleges, home health agencies and other facilities that span the inpatient and outpatient continuum of care.

Visit www.stlukestexas.com for more information.

See ads on page 2 and 37.

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Dr. Elissa R. Wedemeyer Celebrates 25 Years as an Optometrist After practicing in Stafford for one and a half years, Dr. Wedemeyer began her private Optometry Practice in January of 1991 in Missouri City, right across the street from her current location. As her practice has grown with the growth of Missouri City, so has the scope of practice for Texas optometrists.

A license of Optometric Glaucoma Specialist allows Dr. Wedemeyer to treat patients with many of the eye conditions that were traditionally only managed by ophthalmologists. Patients can now be cared for conveniently in her office without the usual wait of busy surgeons and medical clinics. Dr. Wedemeyer can remove corneal foreign bodies, treat abrasions, eye infections, dry eyes and glaucoma. She has all of the high-tech equipment to diagnose and track the progression of glaucoma, macular degeneration and other diseases of the eyes.

Dr. Wedemeyer is trained in fitting the new contact lens designs to help correct irregular and diseased corneas, as well as healthy patients requiring vision correction. Her office provides the latest designs and materials for eyeglass lenses and top quality frames.

Dr. Wedemeyer stays abreast in all aspects of vision care, which include counseling her patients about nutrition and dietary supplements. Diabetes, hypertension, arthritis and autoimmune diseases have a direct effect on the eyes and vision. Dr. Wedemeyer maintains a supply of high quality eye vitamins and tear supplements conveniently in her office.

Dr. Wedemeyer and her staff are happy to answer any of your questions. Her office is located at 6026 Hwy 6 in Missouri City at the entrance to Riverstone. For more information, call 281-499-2600 or visit www.drwedemeyer.com. fort bend

magazine • August 2014

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Advertorial

absolutely! Finest in Medicine LASIK Myths and Facts

As with facts, there are myths that come along. When it comes to LASIK, the theory that rumors travel faster than the truth holds true. The best clinic delivering exceptional LASIK treatment – and clearing up any myths – is the Sugarland Eye & Laser Center in Houston.

LASIK Facts: • It takes just three minutes on average to treat an eye.

• The patient is not at risk if he or she blinks, sneezes or coughs during surgery. Good clinics have eye tracking technology that constantly track the movement of the eye to deliver the laser beam.

• Laser is ultraviolet light. Only a fraction of this light is required during surgery.

• A laser is a harmless wave of light that does not cause vision distortions or blindness.

• The right age for this treatment is 21 years, and there is no upward age limit.

• Patients affected with presbyopia have been found to respond to LASIK better than conventional treatments that use intraocular lens technology.

• Most patients can return to work and start driving one day after surgery.

Myths: • Laser is a hot wave of light. Laser is as cool as cool can be!

• There is a smell that emanates when laser beams are focused of the eyes burning. The smell emanates from the carbon atoms from the laser beam.

• Laser eye surgery changes are permanent – no.

• One cannot have any type of eye treatment such as cataract surgery after refractive eye surgery. Patients can have any type of eye treatment and even a second refractive eye surgery.

• Complications can cause blindness. Today, there has never been a case where a patient became blind due to a LASIK surgery.

For more information on LASIK, call Sugarland Eye & Laser Center at 281-240-0478.

See ad on page 5.

The Center for Craniofacial & Dental Sleep Medicine What is the difference in dentistry? Ask Dr. Samuel Cress, and his answer is simple: “Technology, education, experience and exemplary patient care.”

For nearly twenty years, Samuel E. Cress, D.D.S., Director of The Center for Craniofacial & Dental Sleep Medicine, has been a visionary in the field of Craniofacial Pain and Dental Sleep Medicine treating not only his patients for their general and cosmetic dental needs but utilizing the state-of-the-art DNA (Daytime Nightime Appliance) technology to treat the symptoms associated with Sleep Apnea.

“Certain disorders, including Sleep Apnea, Sleep Bruxism, TMD and chronic pain have a direct bearing on the practice of dentistry,” explained Dr. Cress. “Therefore, gaining a working understanding of Craniofacial Pain and Dental Sleep Medicine greatly enhances what dentists can offer their patients who need help in these areas.”

The new DNA appliance technology has made a difference in over 350 of his patients’ lives providing relief from Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Now, Dr. Cress is utilizing the latest technology in porcelain restorations to help make his patients’ smiles even more beautiful and long-lasting: Elite Porcelain Restorations®.

“Elite Porcelain Restorations create much more than just a beautiful smile. They are the highest expression of today’s dental technology in strength and vitality. The Elite Smile en-

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

hances an individual’s own beauty and quality of life,” said Dr. Cress.

Crafted by Arrowhead Dental Labs, the makers of the successful DNA appliance, each smile is meticulously crafted by Arrowhead technicians to meet the specific aesthetic and functional needs of the patient. “As a result of this custom process, Elite Porcelain Restorations have enabled me to achieve remarkable outcomes that were not possible using other dental porcelain restorations.”

Because of this customization, Elite Smiles are as unique and distinctive as the individual for whom they are made. “I only prescribe Elite Porcelain Restorations using e.max® material,” said Dr. Cress. “Elite conveys warm, naturally magnificent smiles that enhance a person’s youthful appearance and improves overall health.”

And, Dr. Cress speaks from personal, as well as professional, experience. A firm believer in “practice what you preach,” Dr. Cress has had his own smile transformed with Elite Porcelain Restorations. “The promise of the Elite Smile experience is simple: you will receive the confident, youthful, natural-looking smile you’ve always wanted.”

Take Dr. Cress’ advice: “Transform your smile today to Elite, and experience the difference. I did.”

For more information, visit www.cfsdm.com or call 281565-4100.

See ad on page 33. .com • August 2014

66

PROFILES

LEGAL

EAGLES

COMING SEPTEMBER 2014 ALLOW US TO SPOTLIGHT YOU TO YOUR COMMUNITY As an attorney, you’ll want to be seen in our special Legal Eagles’ section. Bring new clients to your firm, and distinguish yourself among the top attorneys in the area with this unique opportunity to showcase your skills.

Our PROFILES are the ideal format to inform readers about your advanced training, specialties, client-friendly environment and community involvement.

To advertise: 281-690-4242 www.absolutelyfocusmedia.com

OUT & ABOUT

Fort Bend residents showed up in large numbers to support Texana through their Pay It Forward event at Ruggles Green in Sugar Land. The party on the patio featured the sounds of Electric DJ Entertainment, and a portion of sales went to support the work of Texana.

IN THE HEART

OF THE BEND

Teresa Cox and William Reading.

Tracey and Jim Shaw.

Zeenat Mitha and Betsy De Vega.

Regina and Vincent Morales, Jr.

Patti and Tim Kaminski.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com â&#x20AC;˘ August 2014

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Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center held an Open House and Celebration welcoming guests to the new state-of-the-art facility.

The center is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week to treat patients of all ages.

Scott Stover and Jeremy Finkelstein.

Armando Saenz and Keri Schmidt.

Alina Gonzalez and Brenda Fallon.

Ray Aguilar and Rene Casonova.

Doris Funderburk and Marsha Barnham.

Mick Cantu and Chris Siebenaler.

Stephanie Tamborello and Derrick Perkins.

Nicole and Richard Guillory.

Jessica Gilbert, Amy Saenz and Leena Taneja.

fort bend

magazine â&#x20AC;˘ August 2014

Melissa Moriarty and Linda Day.

69

OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART

Raindrop Turkish House invited neighbors and friends to celebrate with a meal and break the fast during Ramadan.

Mehmet Okumus and Sheila Jackson Lee with Gordan and Sylvia Quan.

OF THE BEND

Brooke’s Boutique held its first Designer Trunk Show event in June at the new Missouri City location. The upscale consignment shop celebrates fashion and great finds.

Can and Carla Abiloglu.

Ike and Zeenat Mitha.

Yvone and Sulma Chirinos.

Art and Patti Rascon.

Friends of Fort Bend Cares gathered for a fabulous summer social at CRU Home including summer spirits, munchies, modeling and door prizes.

Terri Nieser and Sue O’Hara.

Angela Mason and Mary Rey.

Colleen Flint and Heather Gobert.

Angie Wierzbicki and Gail McClendon.

Gina Beam, Cecile Reynolds and Kelly Holman.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • August 2014

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By Amy Gross

Summer Travel Tip: A Corkscrew on an Airplane?

W

ith the Texas summer heat at its hottest this month, there is no doubt many of you are planning an escape or two. If you are flying and intending to enjoy some wine at your accommodations, here’s an important tip for you regarding corkscrews and air travel.

Sometimes I carry my luggage on the airplane, and sometimes I check it. Regardless, I almost always carry a wine key or corkscrew with me on all of my travels. What? How do I do that? Can you fly with a corkscrew or wine key?

Why yes, you can.

If you want to take a corkscrew in your carry-on luggage on a domestic airplane flight, here’s the secret: You must carry a wine key that does not have an extending blade. Take a look at these two wine keys:

Yes

No

One has a folding knife to cut the foil, whereas the other has small blades that fit around the top of the wine bottle and do not have protruding blades.

The wine key with the protruding blade may not be carried in your carryon luggage. The wine key whose blades do not protrude may be carried in your carry-on luggage. To keep things simple, pull the wine key or corkscrew out of your bag, and set it on top of your bag at security, as you would liquids, so the TSA agents can identify what you are carrying without question.

So, to review, this wine key is not okay to carry on an airplane:

No

BRAZOS • FORT BEND • KATY • MEMORIAL

This wine key/corkscrew is okay for you to carry on an airplane:

we are hiring exceptional people Email resume: editor@fortbendfocus.com

Yes

NOW fort bend

magazine • August 2014

Following this tip will help you breeze through security, and enjoy wine at your destination without having to buy yet another corkscrew when you arrive.

Cheers, and happy travels!

71

Back To School

absolutely!

DELICIOUS

By Stephenie Cox

Nutrition Breaks

B

ack to School is upon us and with that comes the stress of the demands to excel at everything from academics, sports, dance, music, social time, etc. In an effort to offset that a bit, I have stepped back from the rat race. I still expect my kids to offer their best in all they do, but it does not need to be at a high-paced, stressful speed. Paring down and prioritizing a few things such as family time and health and wellness is part of that. It is impossible to meet the demands of the day without preparing ourselves with nutrition geared towards fueling our bodies and exercise.

I grew up in a family that ate better than most because my mom was a vegetarian, but we still had lots of dairy, cakes and cookies around. We all ate the same thing without listening to our bodies’ needs. I remember no matter what class I had after lunch during school, I was checked out and half asleep at my desk. Today, I understand that as a blood sugar crash.

I am careful to watch my intake of foods and sugar content that will spike and drop my blood sugar levels. I more focused on eating a diet that allows for sustained energy throughout the day.

Each of us has a different make up with foods we should and should not eat for our maximum potential.

If we really tuned in, we would hear and feel what our bodies are saying about what we are eating.

As a parent, I feel I can offer my kids a better nutrition by teaching them to listen to their bodies’ needs. For example, asking them, “How do you really feel after drinking that chocolate shake?”

So what snacks should we send in our kids’ backpacks if we are cutting out the high sugar fruit gummies or snack bars? Changing the mind set from “snack time” to “nutrition break” is a game changer. What helps sustain energy and focus throughout the day? Here are a few foods I plan to incorporate into our daily plan:

Fresh fruit is always a good choice to satisfy a sweet tooth. There are all sorts of neat containers that fruit can be carried in, and fruit packs a nutritious punch. You could pack a different fruit each day to avoid snack boredom.

A word on dried fruits: they are more concentrated in sugar than whole fruit.

They have more fiber and nutrients than sweeteners.

Be careful when purchasing dried fruits to see that they do not contain added sugar.

Not just for kids’ lunch boxes, string cheese and other portioned cheeses such as The Laughing Cow Wedges or Mini Babybels are the perfect complements to an apple, pear or bunch of grapes. These low-calorie protein packs are satisfying enough to carry you through to your next meal.

They are the perfect filling, portable snack to save you from a desperate trip to the vending machine. Pick up bars that are about 200 calories or less each, such as Luna Protein bars, In Kind bars or Honey Stinger bars to stash in your bag. Try to choose bars with less than 10 grams of sugar, and check to make sure the protein content is higher than the sugar content.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

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Individually portioned packages of peanut butters and almond butters such as Justin’s Nut Butters are easy to stash in your bag and come in tasty flavors like honey peanut and chocolate almond. Pair with a few whole grain pretzels or fruit, and you have a satisfying treat.

Eggs really are one of nature’s most perfect portable foods. Packed with protein and antioxidants, they satisfy your hunger and improve your health.

Pre-boil eggs, and keep them in your fridge, or try Eggland’s Best HardCooked Peeled eggs for a no muss, no fuss snack or meal.

Jerky (beef, turkey, chicken, buffalo and salmon) makes a great snack because it’s low in fat, lean, savory and high in the chewiness factor. You can find a wide variety of flavors from teriyaki to barbecue.

Almonds, peanuts and cashews are a great nutrition break. They offer many health benefits. Try roasted soy nuts for a complete protein snack. For a little extra heat, try the wasabiflavored ones.

Serve Porterhouse Pork Chops with Steakhouse Butter

E

veryone loves eating out, but with grilling season in full swing, there is no better time to recreate a restaurant classic in your own backyard.

“You can ‘wow’ your guests at your next backyard gathering by making one of my favorite restaurant-worthy meals at home – like Dry-Rubbed Porterhouse Pork Chops with Steakhouse Butter,” said Ray “Dr. BBQ” Lampe, chef and author of the recently released cookbook, Pork Chop. “The steakhouse butter is extra savory, and it perfectly complements the juicy, tender chops coated in a tangy, mildly-spiced dry rub.”

Serve these pork chops with traditional restaurant fare – like a baked potato and creamed spinach – and follow Lampe’s tips for pork chop perfection: Preheat the grill and cooking grate completely; it will help for even browning and cooking.

Ask your guests if they prefer their pork chops cooked medium or medium-rare.

To get your pork chops to the preferred internal temperature, grill them like a steak – between 145°F (medium-rare) and 160°F (medium), followed by a three-minute rest, and use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

For a smoky flavor, add a handful of soaked wood chips to the fire right before you add the chops. For a gas grill, place soaked wood chips in a single sheet aluminum foil packet with four to six holes on the top. Place packet, holes facing up, directly on the grate, off to one side.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Visit www.PorkBeinspired.com for more recipes to keep your grill hot.

absolutely!

DELICIOUS

Recreate a Restaurant Classic

Dry-Rubbed Porterhouse Pork Chops with Steakhouse Butter Yield: 6 servings Prep time: 1 hour Cook time: 8 to 10 minutes

For butter, two hours before grilling, heat mediumsized skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons butter and melt. Add shallots, garlic and salt. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until shallots are 6 Porterhouse Pork Chops, about 1 inch thick soft. Transfer to medium bowl and let cool for 15 minutes.

Steakhouse Butter: Add remaining butter, parsley, lemon juice, pepper, 1 stick butter at room temperature Worcestershire sauce and thyme. Using fork, mash 1/4 cup shallots, finely chopped and mix until fully blended.

1 clove garlic, crushed Lay out a piece of wax paper (approximately 121/2 teaspoon kosher salt by-12 inches) and form butter into an 8 inch-long log 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped shape in center. Roll butter up in wax paper and twist 1/2 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice ends tightly to form an even round log of butter. Place 1/4 teaspoon white pepper in refrigerator for one hour or until firm. This can be 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce made up to two days ahead of time.

Pinch of thyme For rub, combine salt, sugar, chili powder, onion,

Wax paper garlic, pepper and coriander in small bowl. Mix well.

Sprinkle rub liberally on both sides of pork chops. Let Dry Rub: rest for 15 minutes.

2 teaspoons kosher salt Prepare grill to cook directly over medium-high 2 teaspoons raw sugar heat. Place pork chops on cooking grate and cook for 4 1 teaspoon chili powder to 5 minutes until golden brown on bottom. Flip chops 1/2 teaspoon granulated onion and cook another 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic on second side and cooked to internal temperature 1/2 teaspoon black pepper between 145°F (medium rare) and 160°F (medium).

1/2 teaspoon ground coriander Remove from grill and let rest for 3 minutes.

Unwrap butter and cut it into 12 equal-sized medallions. Serve each pork chop with a medallion on top.

Source: Family Features fort bend

magazine • August 2014

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absolutely!

AUTO REVIEW

By Steve Kursar

2015 GMC YUKON DENALI

T

he 2015 GMC Yukon Denali is an all-new version of GM’s near-luxury full-size SUV. This new Yukon has a more powerful engine that gets better fuel economy than last year’s model, as well as all of the technology bells and whistles that you would expect. It’s a vehicle that Texans have been thirsting for, and it’s set the bar much higher than the competition. If you need to haul the entire soccer team to the game or all of the grandkids to Splashtown, this new Yukon is for you.

Back in 2008, when gas prices reached $4 a gallon, full-size SUV owners started bailing out of their behemoths, and automakers started making plans to remove them from their lineup. The panic subsided when

gas prices eventually floated downward; however, in the meantime, most full-size SUVs remained stuck in time.

General Motors has beaten all of their competitors to the punch by bringing out 2015 full-size true body-on-frame SUVs based on their all-new pickup platform. The GMC Yukon offers more luxury than its Chevy cousin, the Tahoe, without the hefty price tag of its cousin, the Cadillac Escalade.

The 2015 GMC Yukon Denali interior comes standard with premium, leather seats and gorgeous Java Burl poplar genuine wood inlays. Access to the third row is a breeze thanks to the second-row power-fold and tumble bucket seats. And now, the third-row seats fold flat thanks to the push of a button. The premium Bose comes standard, and if you want to keep the back row passengers quiet, opt for the Blu-Ray entertainment system with a nine-inch LED screen.

Power for the new Yukon Denali comes from the largest of GM’s all-new EcoTec3 lineup

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of engines, the 420 hp, 6.2 liter V-8.

It’s a monster of an engine. But due to technology that deactivates cylinders based on demand, the engine still gets respectable fuel economy with 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway in 2WD configuration and 14 city/21 highway with 4WD. The suspension is controlled by the Magnetic Ride Control System that makes constant adjustments to smooth out the road ahead.

If you need that Texas-sized luxury SUV that can get you just about anywhere, the new GMC Yukon Denali is a must see. It has set the latest standard for quiet elegance that will get you noticed by the sophisticated eye.

Follow Steve Kursur’s reviews at KursarOnCars.blogspot.com.

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s! d e w wly e N ion

Coming January 2015

Real Weddings Submit your info today and have your wedding details and photos published in print and online in our magazine.

If you or your children have recently married and you would like to enter for a chance to be featured in our Real Weddings, all you need is at least ten high-resolution photos of the ceremony and/or reception. It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t matter where the wedding took place, as long as it was in the last year and you or your parent/s reside in Fort Bend.

Photographers are also welcome to submit photos.

Contact: sarah@fortbendfocus.com or visit www.fortbendfocus.com. fort bend

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Photos courtesy of the Sugar Land Heritage Foundation.

THE MAKING OF FORT BEND

By Jonathan Fausset

A Chautauqua Talk with Sugar Land Mayor

Bill Little R

ecently, I had the opportunity to edit a video of one of the Chautauqua Talks, a historical speaker series hosted by the Sugar Land Heritage Foundation and the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation. The series focuses on the history of Sugar Land, and this segment was with the second mayor of Sugar Land, Bill Little. Little was instrumental into developing Sugar Land into an incorporated city by helping it emerge from a company town. Little spoke with great fondness and easily found good humor in the history of Sugar Land. Below is a synopsis of the Chautauqua Talk featuring Little.

Bill Little was raised in Sandusky, Ohio and was invited as a young man by his uncle to take a look at Galveston as a place to settle down. Intrigued with the area, Little began working in the accounting department with Sugar Land

Bill Little and T. E. Harman.

Industries in February of 1957. He became mayor in 1961 and served two terms after serving one term as one of the first city council members of Sugar Land under Mayor T. E. Harman. At that time, the positions of city council members were known as aldermen. It wasn’t until 1981, when a special city election was held, that the city’s government was changed to a mayor-council government, which is what the city has today.

There were drastic differences between being a company-owned town and

becoming an incorporated city in 1959.

One of the most interesting changes was simply the trash pick up before and after Sugar Land’s incorporation. As a company town, owned and run by Sugar Land Industries, the garage man came six days a week. He would come inside residents’ houses, take the trash out of the pails and would even pick up any kitchen scraps that were in the sink, bag them up and take them out to the truck. There was no effort in taking trash out to the curb twice a week, the way we do today.

Something else the new town needed was a building inspector for all commercial and residential structures. The City of Sugar Land researched and ad-

Sugar Land’s retail district.

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opted the Southern Standard Building code. Part of that code was to employ a civil engineer as a building inspector.

In 1961, Hurricane Carla hit the Texas coast, and some of the speculative homes along Highway 90A lost their roofs. This prompted the city to insure that the homes built within city limits were solid and safe structures that would stand through all kinds of weather.

In the early days of Sugar Land, there was a fire department comprised of men who volunteered from Imperial Sugar and others from Sugar Land Industries. The phone would ring to notify firemen of a fire in two places. One was the fire station, and the other was in the power plant next to the factory, where workers would blow a whistle a certain way that signaled what neighborhood the fire was in. This rudimentary communication told the volunteers where to go. This was later replaced by a telephone system that was exclusive to the firemen. The telephone rang differently and relayed an address to the fire. This changed when the city began staffing the fire departments and quartering staff at fire stations.

Little’s remarks shared only a few of the examples of how Sugar Land has changed from where it began as a company-owned town. It was quite a venture taking a town out from under a company to stand on its own, and without the work and dedication of a select few, Sugar Land would not be at the heart of one of fastest growing counties in America.

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August 2014 Winner “A Boat Panteth for Water”

By Lien Lau Congratulations Lien, 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 $50 gift certificate to a restaurant and the winning photo will be published in our magazine. To claim your prize, call Susan at 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 Sarah@ 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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EVENTS All Month Open Auditions for the Fort Bend Boys Choir Boys ages eight and up who love singing and have an unchanged voice are encouraged to audition for the Fort Bend Boys Choir. Rehearsals begin in late August on Thursdays at the First United Methodist Church Missouri City, located at 3900 Lexington Boulevard. For boys ages six and seven, inquire about the choir’s Music Magic program. Call 281-240-3800 or visit www.fbbctx.org.

August 2nd, 10:30 – 11:30 am Wacky Science Program Bring your family out to wrap up the library’s summer programs with a bang! Entertainer Mick Corley presents scientific principles in an interactive, humorous show at the Sugar Land Branch Library, located at 550 Eldridge Road. All ages are welcome. Call 281-238-2140.

August 6th, 13th and 20th, 2 – 4 pm Summer Movies at the Library

August 9th, 1 – 3 pm International Food Festival

Enjoy a series of animated, family films about an inseparable pair of frightfully fun monsters, as well as family-friendly craft activities related to the films. This summer movie series will be held at the Mamie George Branch Library, located at 320 Dulles Avenue in Stafford. Call 281-238-2880.

The University Branch Library will host an International Food Festival of dishes prepared by patrons at 14010 University Boulevard in Sugar Land. Ten different cultures will be represented: American, Chinese, French, Mexican, Indian, Japanese, German, Italian, South American and Middle Eastern/Mediterranean. One entry will be accepted for each category on a first-come, firstserved basis. Attendees are invited to learn about the different foods and cultures and to sample the dishes. To enter a dish, call 281-633-5150.

August 7th, 11:30 am Senior Foodies Are you a food enthusiast who enjoys meeting new friends? Senior citizens ages 50 and up are invited to enjoy a delicious meal with great company at La Escondida, located at 7270 Highway 6 South in Missouri City. Upon arrival, guests will be escorted to the designated seating area, and individuals will each purchase their own meal. For reservations, call 281-403-8637.

August 4th, 6 – 7:30 pm Introduction to Watercolor Painting for Senior Citizens Watercolor artist Jan Hampton will provide a basic introduction to painting with watercolors for senior citizens who are considering starting a new hobby.

Those attending the program will learn about basic watercolor materials and six painting techniques at the First Colony Branch Library, located at 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land. All class materials will be provided. For reservations, call 281-238-2800.

Kick off the weekend by jamming out with family and friends to some great music at Missouri City’s City Hall, located at 1522 Texas Parkway. The free concert features a performance by Latin pop band Mango Punch. Call 281-403-8637.

The Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) Sustainers will host their “Come on Board” 2014 Membership Coffee for prospective members at the home of Judy Maddison. Fort Bend ladies who are 50 and older are invited to attend. Contact Mary at sustainerpresident@fbjsl.com or visit www.fbjsl.com.

August 15th, 8 pm Music Fest 2014

Presented By:

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECH Water Treatment Specialists

Every Saturday, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, rain or shine 198 Kempner St. at Imperial Sugar Land

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Two experts from Fort Bend ISD will discuss teacher expectations for parents of kindergartners, elementary and middle school students at the Missouri City Branch Library, located at 1530 Texas Parkway. The discussion will include information on immunizations and a handy bibliography, as well as a fun back to school craft for children. Call 281-238-2100.

August 12th, 10 – 11:30 am Fort Bend Junior Service League Sustainers Membership Coffee

August 8th, 6:30 – 8:30 pm Summer Concert Series

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

August 9th, 2 pm Parents’ Back to School Survival Guide

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It’s a blast from the past as five classic rock legends join forces to put on one incredible show in the Happy Together Tour at the Stafford Centre Theatre, located at 10505 Cash Road. Music Fest is a fun, unique event for attendees to come together in a relaxed atmosphere while supporting the programs and services provided by the Fort Bend Women’s Center. Visit www.fortbendwomenscenter.org or call 281-344-5756.

EVENTS August 15th – 17th 40th Annual Houston Glass Club Vintage Glass and Antique Show and Sale Browse American Depression Era glass, kitchenware, pottery, antiques, furniture, linens, jewelry and more at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds, located at 4310 Highway 36 in Rosenberg. Food and drinks will be on site as well. Admission is $10 for all three days or $6 on Saturday and Sunday. The event runs from 2 to 7 pm on Friday, 10 am to 5 pm on Saturday and 11 am to 4 pm on Sunday.

Visit www.houstonglassclub.org or call 281-240-0382.

August 16th, 10:15 am – 2:30 pm Free SAT Practice Test Session Representatives from Kaplan Test Prep and Admissions will conduct a free practice SAT test at the University Branch Library, located at 14010 University Boulevard in Sugar Land. Students will take a full-length practice SAT test to gain experience and become better prepared for the actual test. The session is free; reservations are required. To register, call 281-633-5150.

August 16th, 2 – 4 pm Bountiful Gardens Series: Composting and Vermiculture Attend a special gardening program at the Sienna Branch Library, located at 8411 Sienna Springs Boulevard in Missouri City. Fort Bend County Master Gardener and Compost Specialist Sam Guardiola will provide an overview of composting and vermiculture, the composting process of using worms, microbes and bacteria to turn organic waste into a nutrient-rich fertilizer. Call 281-238-2900.

SUGAR LAND TOWN SQUARE

CALENDAR OF EVENTS www.sugarlandtownsquare.com Call 281.313.SLTS August 23rd, 11 am – 12:15 pm Craft Your Heart Out Whether a beginner, semi-seasoned or expert crafter, come to the Missouri City Branch Library, located at 1530 Texas Parkway, for a fun-filled hour of learning and sharing skills in knitting, crocheting and more. The club meets the fourth Saturday of each month, and each session features a guest crafter. Call 281-238-2100.

Giving Spirits Concert

August 25th, 10 am – 5 pm Back to School Scramble

Live Music

Play in Fort Bend Education Foundation’s 15th Annual Back to School Scramble golf tournament at Sweetwater Country Club, located at 4400 Palm Royale Boulevard in Sugar Land. Presented

by Schlumberger, the event benefits the students of Fort Bend ISD. The entry fee includes lunch, snacks and beverages, golf, cart and a reception dinner and raffle after the tournament.

E-mail carol.evans@fortbendisd.com or call 281-634-1111.

Friday, August 1st 7:30 – 9:30 pm

Back to School Splash Bash Saturday, August 2nd 11 am – 4 pm

Friday, August 8th 7:30 – 9:30 pm

Sugar Land Superstar Saturday, August 9th 7 – 9:30 pm

Crossing Borders Friday, August 15th 7:30 – 9:30 pm

Movie Under the Moon August 28th, 10 – 11 am Digital Photography for Beginners

Saturday, August 16th 7:30 – 9:30 pm

The Sienna Branch Library, located at 8411 Sienna Springs in Missouri City, presents an introductory program reviewing the major components of photography and the various functions and capabilities of a digital camera. Learn how to use free, online photo editing tools to create special photo effects. Participants are encouraged to bring a USB flash drive containing a picture to edit.

Reservations are required. Call 281-238-2952.

Opry on the Square Friday, August 22nd 7:30 – 9:30 pm

NOLA Nights Saturday, August 23rd 7:30 – 9:30 pm

Dancing Under the Stars Friday, August 29th 7:30 – 9 pm

Submit calendar events at www.fortbendfocus.com

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By Alisa Murray www.AlisaMurray.com Nationally recognized portrait artist and awardwinning columnist.

Living the Sweet Life:

Supersizing Your Sweet Life!

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t takes time to become what we already are. Think on that for just a moment. Life moves through seasons, and with each one, it is sometimes a joyous time while others quite stressful.

We spend our lives moving through various states of being, and the key to a fulfilled life is recognizing the changes that great days are coming again. Being excited about our life, particularly when we have achieved many things and are no longer moving at a rapid pace or are facing a darker time, is not always easy. Knowing what needs to be uprooted, and likewise, what must be nurtured, is sometimes not so crystal clear. This summer season marked the end of my sister’s marriage and a year of her living with me. For her, the changes are bright for a fresh start at a real life, and a chance to significantly alter raising her boys in a more positive place.

Consequently, I was listening to Pastor Osteen recently, and he was discussing how God can and does supersize our lives. Basically, his premise was that each one of us has a predestined cup filling over of potential and prosperous planning that our Heavenly Father has stored up for us. When we feel like our lives are empty, gearing towards depressed, or more precisely that we have already hit our mark in life, gearing towards successful and stagnate, we haven’t even really begun yet. God always has more in store for us. How refreshing to always know there is more we can expect from our lives!

Similarly, the book that I was reading in the moment coincided with this thought but on a different level. Same message, different path so to speak. Tibetan Buddhism teaches that we each must tend to our gardens in life, and by weeding out what is not good or no longer working, we free ourselves to be what we already are.

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Alisa Murray and her sister Elizabeth Hargett.

This is a great message in a few ways. For me, it resonates that despite doing the cancer calendars for 10 years and traveling to India a few years back, I still can hope for and expect grander opportunities to give back to my community. These have not been revealed to me as of yet, but God does in fact have a larger plan for my life to impact the lives of others. He clearly has placed me in a position to create art, and use my talent to make a difference. My life and yours always has the potential for more.

For my sweet sister who has suffered much and has been brave enough to flee to a new life, it means the hopes and dreams are just awakening to her. Her life is just beginning, and she need only be open to the possibilities! God has in fact planned for her divorce, and He provided her a place to move to and will, of course, provide more opportunities that hopefully someday include a new husband worthy of her love.

If you look at what you have done and where you want to go in life, it is amazingly clear that God does indeed have a method to the madness. The process of discovering our greatest potentials is the journey that takes us to the next place of prosperity. Each person has been given an undeniable potential to receive pureness, consciousness, peacefulness and love. Each of us becomes wiser as we go through this life and are given more and more – something to think about when we go through the tough times. One success leads to yet another. You must be willing, though, to pull weeds and rest up for God’s next big thing to supersize an already wonderful life!

Take Care of YOU!

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