January 2017 - Fort Bend Focus Magazine - People • Places • Happenings

JANUARY 2017

Dr. SHEL Empowers Women from the Inside Out New Year’s

RESOLUTIONS

Around the Bend

New Year, NEW YOU

absolutely Kid Friendly

BEST in the WEST

{Seen on the Scene}

Here Comes the Bride

FORT BEND WEDDINGS

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.

That’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.

One of a kind, Heart Shaped Burmese Sapphire and diamond ring set in platinum from Loggins’ Precious Gems collection.

For Valentine’s Day and every day...

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Our Gallery showroom will allow you to see and operate a variety of window coverings in a large selection of fabrics and colors.

Drop by and see Mary or email her at mary@jlblinds.com.

Mary O’Connor

©2016 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners. 3934489

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • January 2017

2

Ask These 10 Questions To Make Sure Your Dentist Stacks Up 1

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2 7 3

8 4 9 5 10

Tim Cashion, DDS

Teresa Cody, DDS

mydentist@candcdental.com A $25.00 flat fee for an x-ray & consultation A $74.00 value Low cost way to find out what’s wrong (Does not include cleaning)

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17003 SW Freeway, Suite 100, Sugar Land, TX 77479

www.candcdental.com www.candcortho.com

Call us now!

281-377-3402

Primary Care.

SCHEDULE TODAY!

Where you go makes a differenCe.

Adelola Ashaye, MD Family Medicine

Nader Ayub, DO Primary Care Sports Medicine

Kerry Laursen, MD Family Medicine

Jessen Rajan, MD Family Medicine Malayalam & Spanish

Sienna Plantation 8330 Hwy. 6, Suite 110 | Missouri City, TX 77459

Vandana Khera, MD Internal Medicine Hindi & Punjabi

Deepshikha Sharda, DO Family Medicine Hindi

Riverstone 18717 S. University Blvd., Suite 105 Sugar Land, TX 77479

Remilekun Dosumu Agbe-Davies, MD Internal Medicine

Adrianne Scruggs, MD Internal Medicine

Sweetwater 4660 Sweetwater Blvd., Suite 210 Sugar Land, TX 77479

Houston Methodist Primary Care Group is dedicated to providing high-quality and compassionate care to the Fort Bend community. Our physicians have extensive training and experience in diagnosing and treating patients with a caring, hands-on, family-oriented approach.

• Accepts most major insurance plans • Patient portal for secure communication with your care team • Convenient locations • Same day appointments • Easy online scheduling Schedule online at houstonmethodist.org/appointments or call 713.394.6638.

JANUARY 2017

27

{COVER STORY}

{Features} 17 HERE COMES THE BRIDE

Don’t miss these five blushing brides with Fort Bend ties and their gorgeous celebrations!

27 10 ESSENTIAL WEDDING PLANNING

TIPS AND TRICKS

Follow these stress-free tips for every step of the wedding planning process.

30

FORT BEND CHRISTIAN ACADEMY THEATRE DEPARTMENT’S HISTORIC STATE WIN

For the first time in history, a group of outstanding theatre students earned the title of State TAPPS One-Act Play Champions.

33 absolutely! KID FRIENDLY

Start the year off with a plan. Find the best and brightest in private schools and after school activities to meet your child’s needs.

49 NEW YEAR, NEW YOU

Rejuvenate yourself for the new year!

Fort Bend’s finest providers will help you start the year refreshed and at your best.

{Columns}

Dr. Shelena Lalji Photography by Larry Pullen.

14

DR. SHEL WELLNESS & AESTHETIC CENTER: Empowering Women from the Inside Out The new year is the perfect time to make changes to the entire person – both inside and out. An expert in the fields of wellness, anti-aging and aesthetics, Dr. Shelena Lalji is devoted to empowering both men and women by improving both their inner and outer well-being with compassionate, customized care.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

28 FOCUS ON HEALTH

No Grain, No Pain 32 HIGH SCHOOL HOT SHOT

Meet Ross Trivisonno 39 KIDS’ CORNER

Nighttime Fears and Things That Go Bump

46 COMMUNITY CULTURE

New Year’s Resolutions Around the Bend 56 HOMETOWN HEROES:

Larry Guerra

80 LIVING THE SWEET LIFE:

Hello Again January! .com • January 2017

6

CONTRIBUTORS

JANUARY 2017 VOLUME 13 | NUMBER 3

Dr. Peter Osborne Origins Healthcare Centers Page 28

{Newsworthy}

28 Joan Frances Contributor Pages 32 & 56

42 READING BETWEEN

THE WINES EVENT

Announces Honorary Chair

32

Mary Gayle Brindley

44 THE PUB FOUNTAINS

Presents Fort Bend Cares’

© 2016 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc., Village Roadshow Films North America Inc. and Ratpac-Dune Entertainment, LLC. Photo by Barry Wetcher.

12th Annual Road Trip Fundraiser

45 FORT BEND

JUNIOR SERVICE LEAGUE

Accepting Scholarship Applications

{

47 THE FORT BEND

AGGIE MOMS’ CLUB

Scholarship Application

48 COLLATERAL BEAUTY

Is Now Open

57 TEXAS BAR FOUNDATION

Awards Grant to

Child Advocates of Fort Bend

61 SUGAR LAND GIRL SCOUT

Earns National Service Award

{Brain Teaser} 47 WINTER CLUES

Zeenat Kassam Mitha Cultural Correspondent Page 46

46

47 Christopher Hill imagination monkey Page 48

48

Development Officer

Steve Kursar Auto Enthusiast Page 58

63 MEMORIAL HERMANN

SUGAR LAND HOSPITAL

Receives Texas

58

Ten Step Redesignation

Alisa Murray Alisa Murray Photography Page 80

64 HOUSTON METHODIST

SUGAR LAND HOSPITAL

Earns Sixth Consecutive

39

Myles Mellor Contributor Page 47

59 ACCESSHEALTH

Appoints Chief

Commissioner Andy Meyers

}

Family Night At The Movies

{Medical Focus}

60 KCAM RECEIVES ANNUAL

END OF YEAR DONATION

From Fort Bend County

Patrick Biron Birons Youth Sports Center Page 39

Will Smith as Howard and Keira Knightley as Amy in Collateral Beauty.

80

“A” Grade for Patient Safety

66 OAKBEND NAMED FINALIST

Hospital Charitable

Service Awards

{Business Briefs} 62 JOHNSON DEVELOPMENT

ON THE COVER: Deborah Duncan, Dr. Shelena Lalji and Cynthia A. McConathy.

Photo by Nesossi Studios.

Lands Six Projects on Most Active List

58 2017 TOYOTA PRIUS .com • January 2017

10 EXCLAMATION POINTS! 60 SEEN ON THE SCENE

absolutely! {Auto Review}

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

{In Every Issue} 68 AMATEUR PHOTO CONTEST 70 OUT & ABOUT IN

THE HEART OF THE BEND 78 COMMUNITY EVENTS

8

BeautyBecomesYou.com

Monica Hand, Janna Carandang, May Akbari, LaDonna Marie, Dr. Eric Humble, Taylor Feldman, Vanessa Rodriguez, Katie Taylor and Kaylyn Moehrig.

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Like us on Facebook

EXCLAMATION POINTS! Publisher, PATTI PARISH-KAMINSKI

Putting on a Fresh Face – and Making it Last Happy 2017 Fort Bend! It’s a new year, and I, for one, am ready! Fort Bend Focus has a fresh, new look for 2017, and we are excited!

We love putting a fresh face on our magazines – especially on Fort Bend Focus as 2017 begins our 13th year of bringing you the people, places and happenings in our community. Now that’s a milestone to celebrate!

This year will be a year of celebration at Fort Bend Focus. This October marks our Tim, Kolton and Patti Kaminski. tenth year of giving, and we are hosting another amazing signature event where we will once again give back to our community that has given us so much. To date, through our signature events alone, we have donated nearly $170,000 to area non-profits, and we are proud to once again shine the spotlight on our amazing community organizations. Stay tuned for details as Fort Bend Focus shines in 2017 with 10 years of giving!

To help you shine and be your best in the new year, our New Year, New You section has some amazing ideas to help you rejuvenate, refresh and even reinvent.

From tips on beauty, nutrition, wellness – and even weight loss – you will find some great ideas to help you create a new you for the new year.

Resolutions are a big part of our New Year’s tradition, and in this issue, we’ve asked some community leaders what they resolve to accomplish in 2017. Check out what they had to say on page 46.

Each year, I tend to make the same resolutions, but for 2017, I have decided to change it up. I resolve to focus on the things that are important to me on a daily basis – faith, family, friends and health – and not take anything for granted. This past year has taught me that our lives can change in a moment, and my determination as a woman, as a mother, as a community servant is stronger than ever.

Attorney and speaker Cavett Robert said, “Character is the ability to carry out a good resolution long after the excitement of the moment has passed.” Yes, 2017 is going to be exciting for Fort Bend Focus. We are determined to make it so – every day.

Happy New Year to all of our advertisers, readers and Fort Bend friends! We are thankful for you and extend our sincere wishes for a healthy, prosperous and focused new year!

Vol. 13 No. 3 January 2017 4655 TECHNIPLEX DR. STE 700 STAFFORD, TX 77477 281-690-4242

WWW.FORTBENDFOCUS.COM

PUBLISHER Patti Parish-Kaminski 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 OUNT EXECUTIVES Nancy Dunbar Jennifer Elliott Molly Ellis Kay Garrett Andrea Rigamonti Suzanne Stiles A RT D I R E C T O R Grace Belleza GRAPHIC DESIGNER Marinela Taylor WEB DESIGNER Joey Belleza CONTRIBUTORS M.G. Angulo Patrick Biron Joan Frances Christopher Hill Steve Kursar Myles Mellor Zeenat Kassam Mitha Alisa Murray Dr. Peter Osborne O F F I C E A D M I N I S T R AT O R Alexa Goldstein INQUIRIES 281-690-4242

Stay focused,

E D I T O R IA L S U B M I S S I O N S Sarah@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Published by

READER FEEDBACK Hi Sarah, I just saw the December issue and wanted to thank you again for including three images from the recent lighting ceremony at Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land in Out & About in the Heart of the Bend. We truly appreciate your support!

Best, Christine Rigamer TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • January 2017

10

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© 2017 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.

fort bend

magazine • January 2017

13

COVER STORY

By M.G. Angulo

The Lalji Family: Ayeez, Shelena, Zoe and Zade.

Compassionate, Customized Care

Empowering Women Inside Out from the

A

woman’s role in our society has transformed tremendously over the decades, allowing women to showcase their abilities in the home, in their careers and throughout their communities. Unfortunately, a woman’s health often takes a back seat to her demanding schedule and her desire to take care of those she loves.

“Women need to take their health into their own hands and find a physician who is a woman’s advocate, one who gets to know the patient as a person and not just a number,” said Dr. Shelena Lalji, who has more than 20 years of experience as a board certified OB/GYN, author, national speaker and educator.

Considered by many to be an expert in the fields of wellness, anti-aging and aesthetics, Dr. Shel, as she is known to

her patients and colleagues, is devoted to empowering women by improving “both their inner and outer well-being.”

At her practice, Dr. Shel offers women both wellness and aesthetic services so they can look and feel confident. “Feeling your absolute best is an integral part of our philosophy of care,” she said. “I strongly believe in the art of beauty and the science of wellness as key ingredients for a balanced and vital life.”

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • January 2017

14

At the Dr. Shel Wellness & Aesthetic Center in Sugar Land, patients are provided with relief from their ailments though customized, individualized care. “Understanding our patients, their symptoms, their inner and outer wellness goals and helping them achieve those goals is always our main priority,” said Dr. Shel.

KHOU’s Great Day Houston senior producer and host Deborah Duncan knows first-hand the quality of care that lies within Dr. Shel’s hands. After the birth of her son, Duncan noticed a substantial change in her body. She was fatigued but could not sleep. She also endured hair loss and depression, but when she reached out for help, the doctors she met with only wanted to treat her symptoms, not correct the underlying cause of her symptoms.

Then Duncan met with Dr. Shel and everything changed. To understand why Duncan was experiencing such a dramatic change in her quality of life, Dr. Shel performed lab work, which confirmed her suspicions that Duncan had hypothyroidism.

“Having a lab on the premises is so convenient,” Duncan said. “Dr. Shel rebalanced my hormones, nutrition and gut and literally saved my life. The hormones and detoxification helped to

reduce inflammation in my body that made me look puffy and improve my weight and symptoms so I could feel great again!”

Because she strongly believes in using natural over synthetic hormones, Dr. Shel offers bio-identical hormones, which are biologically identical to what the body produces and are recognized by our body’s receptors. Duncan also took advantage of Dr. Shel’s Intravenous (IV) Vitamin Therapy – a method of feeding essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other natural substances directly into a patient’s bloodstream – and Vanquish ME, which can treat body fat around the abdomen arms, legs and hips without any surgery or downtime.

“These services are the sure way that my body can instantly receive vitamins and essential nutrients, so I can keep up with my fast-paced life,” Duncan said. “And Vanquish ME helped to reduce the fat in my mid-section.

“There are so many cool, innovative procedures available in Dr. Shel’s office that can help you feel great from the inside out, and it’s all done under one beautiful roof. Dr. Shel is constantly on the lookout for the latest techniques and technology that can yield the best results for a better you.”

Wellness & Aesthetics: The Ultimate Combination Dr. Shel believes you should look and feel your best.

By offering both aesthetic and wellness services, Dr. Shel Wellness & Aesthetic Center is your one stop shop for inner vitality and outer rejuvenation.

Health & Wellness • Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy • Low Testosterone Therapy for Men • Thyroid Optimization • IV Vitamin Therapy • Weight Loss / Detoxification • Yeast Overgrowth (Candida) • Adrenal Fatigue / Chronic Fatigue • Gluten / Food Sensitivities • Nutritional Testing & Supplementation • Sexual Health / Vaginal Rejuvenation

Injectable & Fillers • Botox / Xeomin • Juvederm • Radiesse

• Voluma™ XC • Belotero

Skin Tightening • Ultherapy • Exilis Ultra ®

• 4D Laser Facelift

Fat & Cellulite Reduction Photo by Nesossi Studios.

• CoolSculpting® • TightSculpting

• Vanquish ME • Laser Cellulite Reduction

Skin Rejuvenation • Pearl / Pearl Fractional • Microneedling with PRP • Laser Skin Rejuvenation Dr. Shel and patient Deborah Duncan.

Other Aesthetic Services

Validating Her Patients Dr. Shel’s success with her patients lies in her approach to their health. At her practice, general or broad treatments are never the go-to answer, and a patient’s concerns are never dismissed. When a woman complains of mood swings, fatigue, weight gain, low libido and depression, often the culprit is hormonal imbalance, primarily because of declining progesterone levels, especially for women in their 30s. This unfortunate trend can continue to worsen into their 40s and then, of course, during menopause.

“Women need to be validated and not made to feel that it is all in their head,” Dr. Shel said. “Once we diagnose and correct the imbalances, women once again feel vibrant, energized, sexy and full of life.”

Dr. Shel Wellness & Aesthetic Center specializes in more than hormones. From a range of services such as weight fort bend

• IPL Photofacial • Hydrafacial

• BLU-U Acne Treatment • Chemical Peels • Hair Regrowth • Laser Vein Removal • Laser Hair Removal • Skin Tag Removal

Visit www.drshel.com or call 281-313-7435 for a free consultation.

Dr. Shel’s insightful book guides readers through a journey of self-discovery and awareness of women’s health issues by focusing on preventive and integrative aspects of medicine. Visit www.drshel.com to order.

magazine • January 2017

15

My team and I focus on the root cause, diagnose why our patients are feeling as they are, really listen to them and get them feeling their best naturally and holistically.” – Dr. Shel

Photo by Nesossi Studios.

loss, sexual health and gut health to a plethora of aesthetic services such as laser skin tightening, rejuvenation, Botox, fillers, body sculpting, feminine rejuvenation, laser hair and vein removal, Dr. Shel Wellness & Aesthetic Center can easily be considered the only stop a woman needs if her desire is to regain control of her health and confidence.

“We are very complicated beings, and at my practice, we treat those complicated issues comprehensively. We no longer have to accept low energy, weight gain, low libido, hair loss, depression, mood swings, insomnia and many such symptoms as part of aging,” Dr. Shel stressed. “We can truly work on getting our lives back.”

said. “I have recommended Dr. Shel to people who have been on the insurance ‘roller-coaster’ of testing with no diagnosis and no results. When you give your body what its needs to be balanced and whole, the results are amazing and sometimes even miraculous.”

Her approach to medicine is not just popular with patients but other physicians around the world as well. Dr. Shel regularly speaks and trains at national and international medical and aesthetic conferences and has been featured for her expertise on many television shows including the NBC, CBS, KPRC and KHOU Morning News, Latina Voices and KHOU’s Great Day Houston to name a few. And as the author of I Am Woman: Our Journeys to Health, Happiness and Harmony, Dr. Shel guides readers through a journey of self-discovery and awareness of women’s health issues by focusing on preventive and integrative aspects of medicine.

“She is genuine in her desire to help patients achieve optimum health,” McConathy said. “Dr. Shel helps the patient to identify deficiencies in the body, hindrances to health and works with the patient to set goals for excellent overall health. Dr. Shel wants all of her patients to be healthy and feel their best inside and out.”

Men Need and Deserve the Same Attention Patient Cynthia A. McConathy receiving an IV vitamin infusion under Dr. Shel’s care.

A Modern Approach to Medicine Dr. Shel believes the traditional approach to medicine – prescribing scores of medications to ease symptoms while ignoring the root cause – is synonymous with placing a BandAid on health issues. The medical philosophy she practices at her office is drastically different, because it centers on diagnosing and treating the underlying cause of a problem. “My team and I focus on the root cause, diagnose why our patients are feeling as they are, really listen to them and get them feeling their best naturally and holistically,” she said.

Dr. Shel’s philosophy is the primary reason Rosenberg Mayor Cynthia A. McConathy sought her services. For the past five years, McConathy has been going to Dr. Shel’s practice for IV vitamin infusions to combat fatigue, allergies and exposure to the seasonal cold and flu, because Dr. Shel’s approach is in line with McConathy’s desire to take a “holistic approach to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.”

“It saddens me to hear how the medical profession sometimes fails people at their time of greatest need,” McConathy TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

Dr. Shel feels very strongly about offering the same standard of excellent, comprehensive care to her male patients.

She has treated hundreds of men over the years with nutrition, testosterone replacement, gut health, IV therapy and aesthetics to help them feel energized, revitalized, sleep better, gain muscle, lose weight and get their libido and motivation back. Men, too, partake in many aesthetic treatments, which give them the added confidence they are looking for.

For more information on Dr. Shel Wellness & Aesthetic Center, call 281-313-7435 or visit www.drshel.com.

Dr. Shel conferring with patient Trent Vann. .com • January 2017

16

Here Comes the Bride

Gabriel & Alison Whitehurst May 25, 2014

Jason & Kelly Rankin October 10, 2015

William & Stephanie McKeever June 20, 2016

Michael & Carson De Fries July 23, 2016

Timothy & Kayla Wilcox September 18, 2016

If you or your children have married within the last year and reside in Fort Bend, and you would like to enter for a chance to be featured in our next Real Weddings, complete the “Wedding Form� at www.FortBendFocus.com and e-mail at least 10 high-resolution photos of the ceremony and/or reception to sarah@absolutelyfocusmedia.com.

To guarantee your wedding details make it into our next Real Weddings, place your engagement or wedding announcement in Fort Bend Focus.

Photographers are also welcome to submit photos.

Groom and Bride: William and Stephanie McKeever.

Photo by More Than An Image Photography.

Gabriel & Alison Whitehurst May 25, 2014

Details

Photos by Eb+Jc Photography

Bride’s Full Name: Alison Nicole Hodgson Groom’s Full Name: Gabriel Arlen Whitehurst Wedding Site: Belltower Chapel & Garden Reception Site: Belltower Chapel & Garden Rehearsal Dinner Site: North Richland Hills Recreation Center Videography: Tennison Visuals Wedding Planner: Erika Jobe Officiant: Ben Connelly Gown: Ivory Beaded Drop-Waist Gown with Sweetheart Neckline Veil: Chapel Length Veil Shoes: Navy Blue Peep-Toe Pumps with Black Beading - Caparros Jewelry: Earrings Borrowed From Bride’s Mother and Sapphire Necklace Given By Groom Hair: Local Stylist - Fort Worth, Texas Bridesmaid Dresses: Navy Formalwear: Navy & Ecru Flowers: Local Florist - Trophy Club, Texas Catering: John Pizzoloto Cake: Stir Crazy Baked Goods Music: Joel Stroder Favors: Dark Chocolate Hershey’s Kisses Transportation: Red Mustang Convertible Accommodations: Omni Fort Worth Hotel Honeymoon: Santa Fe, New Mexico

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • January 2017

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Your Premier Event Facility

WEDDINGS | GALAS | CORPORATE MEETINGS | SPECIAL EVENTS

Safari Texas Ranch 281.277.7888

11627 FM 1464, Richmond, Texas 77407 www.safaritexasballroom.com | e-mail: events@safaritexasballroom.com fort bend

magazine • January 2017

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Jason & Kelly Rankin October 10, 2015

Details

Photos by Complete Weddings

Bride’s Full Name: Kelly Michelle Gilson Groom’s Full Name: Jason Dean Rankin Wedding Site: Safari Texas Ranch - Pecan Tree Patio Reception Site: Safari Texas Ranch - San Antonio Room Rehearsal Dinner Site: “I Do BBQ” at Bride’s Parents’ Home Videography: Complete Weddings Wedding Planner: Sohini Tomar Officiant: Rev. Garry Moon - Family Friend Gown: Champagne Strapless A-Line Gown With Pearl & Crystal Shirred Bodice With Multi-Layered Tulle Overlay Skirt Veil: Vera Wang Candlelight Walking Veil Shoes: Nina Kelisha Jeweled T-Strap Rhinestone Sandals Jewelry: Bride’s Mother’s Rhinestone Hair Comb Hair: Envogue Salon Makeup: Salma Hirani Matron of Honor Dress: Marine Strapless Satin With Bias Pleat and A-Line Skirt Formalwear: Jos. A. Banks Invitations: Zazzle Flowers: House of Blooms by Pat Houck Catering: Safari Texas Ranch Cake: A Cake Above Cakes by Abbey Lewellyn Music: Complete Weddings Transportation: Cadillac CTS Honeymoon: Dominican Republic TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • January 2017

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Always Beautiful AlwaysBeautiful Lucas Chavez Owner

LcFloralDesigns.com • 281.342.8839 • 204 Hwy 90A East • Richmond, TX 77406 fort bend

magazine • January 2017

21

William & Stephanie McKeever June 20, 2016

Details

Photos by More Than An Image Photography

Bride’s Full Name: Stephanie Lynn Malloy Groom’s Full Name: William Joseph McKeever Wedding Site: St. Laurence Catholic Church Reception Site: Sugar Land Marriott Town Center Rehearsal Dinner Site: Grotto Ristorante Videography: Filmstrong Wedding Planner: Bride; Ashley & Company - Kelly Nail Officiant: Father Drew Wood Gown: Whittington Bridal - Essence of Australia Veil: Whittington Bridal Shoes: Badgley Mischka Jewelry: Whittington Bridal - Mariell Hair: Beauty by Crystal Anne Makeup: Beauty by Crystal Anne Bridesmaid Dresses: Nordstrom Formalwear: Men’s Wearhouse Invitations: Bering’s Flowers: Post Oak Florist Catering: Sugar Land Marriott Town Center Cake: Susie’s Cakes & Confections Music: Essen Entertainment - DJ David Settle Favors: Homemade Candle and Matchbox Transportation: Monarch British Limos Accommodations: Sugar Land Marriott Town Center Honeymoon: Excellence Resort Punta Cana, Dominican Republic TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • January 2017

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Debuting 2017

Modern MOMS FRESH FINDS:

Food, Fashion FITNESS

&

Weighing In: Making Cents Out of Diet DOLLAR$

Get Gorgeous Tips for Looking YOUR BEST

PROFILES: Fabulous Fifties & SASSY SIXTIES The ABC’s of Fitness

{ AEROBICS to ZUMBA }

To advertise, call 281.690.4242 absolutelyfitandfab.com

Michael & Carson De Fries July 23, 2016

Details

Photos by Meeker Pictures

Bride’s Full Name: Carson Marie Catalano Groom’s Full Name: Michael Christopher De Fries Wedding Site: Briscoe Manor Chapel Reception Site: Briscoe Manor Rehearsal Dinner Site: Briscoe Manor Officiant: Richard De Fries - Father of the Groom Gown: Maggie Sottero Veil: Giselle Hair: Hair by Charise Makeup: Jocelyne Bejarano Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal Formalwear: Men’s Wearhouse Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas Flowers: Senterpiece Flowers Catering: Behind the Bash Cake: Cakes by Gina Music: The Royal Dukes Transportation: Jordan Limosine Accommodations: Marriott Sugar Land

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • January 2017

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Dr. Katia Lemke, DMD Orthodontic Specialist

• Free Orthodontic Exam & Consultation • Insurance & Flexible Financing Available • Braces for Children & Adults & Lingual Braces

NEW ADDRESS

281.277.3555 www.lemkeortho.com 6514 Highway 90A, Ste. 201 • Sugar Land, Tx 77498

Photo by Nhan Photography

• Advanced Orthodontic Treatment with

713-528-4719 1811 S. Shepherd Dr., Houston, TX 77019

www.WhoMadeTheCake.com

The Original Trolley & Limousine Co.

281.491.4911 originaltrolley.com

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Each duplex can accommodate four adults and four children or rent both for groups.

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magazine • January 2017

25

Timothy & Kayla Wilcox September 18, 2016

Details

Photos by Shelby Tsika Photography

Bride’s Full Name: Kayla Destin McDaniel Groom’s Full Name: Timothy James Wilcox Wedding Site: The Springs in Katy Reception Site: The Springs in Katy - Stonecreek Hall Rehearsal Dinner Site: Las Alamedas Videography: Sean Goodwyne Officiant: Jeffery H. Smith Gown: Nolan’s Formal Wear Veil: Borrowed From a Friend Shoes: Dillard’s Jewelry: Bastian Inverun Pearl Earrings Hair: An Albert Luiz Salon & Spa Makeup: An Albert Luiz Salon & Spa Bridesmaid Dresses: Nordstrom Formalwear: Matching Shirts from Macy’s and Polka Dot Tie Invitations: White Lace Design - Etsy Flowers: Multiplicity Catering: Tastefully Yours Events Cake: Bride’s - Edible Moments; Groom’s - Jennifer Jones Music: DJ Mike Ramirez Favors: “Watch Our Love Brew” Burlap Sacks Filled With Coffee Beans Transportation: Groom’s Car - 328i BMW Accommodations: Hyatt Regency - The Woodlands; Majestic Colonial - Punta Cana, Dominican Republic Honeymoon: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • January 2017

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Essential Wedding Planning Tips and Tricks 1 6 Guests come first. Get a grip on the approximate number of guests you will invite before settling on a venue. This will ensure there is ample space for your crew. As a rule of thumb, allow for 25 to 30 square feet per guest. That may seem like a lot, but it’s not if you count the space you’ll need for the tables, bustling waiters, the band and a dance floor.

Get organizationally focused. In a three-ring binder, compile all correspondences with vendors, notes and photos or tear sheets from magazines you want vendors to see. Set up a special email address dedicated to your wedding, and store important vendor numbers in your cell phone.

2 3

Take it one step at a time. Put together a wedding planning schedule, and do things one by one – in a logical order – so you don’t take on too much too fast and end up with everything snowballing around you. Don’t hire any vendors before you have confirmed your date, don’t design your cake before you have envisioned your flowers, and don’t book a band before you have settled on a space.

Investigate wedding blackout dates. Know ahead of time if your wedding date falls on the same day as a trade conference, charity walk or other local event that could affect traffic and hotel room availability.

Listen to Mother Nature. Heed the weather and other potential annoyances. Guests have been known to skip out early from hotter-than-hot summer tent weddings and improperly heated winter loft receptions.

Bugs also swarm in certain areas during certain seasons.

Consider renting pest control tanks to alleviate the problem or including bug repellent in guests’ gift bags.

4

Check your credit. Take advantage of the high cost of weddings, and sign up for a credit card with a rewards program. Whether it gives airline miles or great shopping deals, consolidating all wedding-related purchases to this card will help you accumulate thousands of rewards points, which could be used for your honeymoon.

5

Pay it forward. Let one vendor lead you to another.

Your wedding photographer can tell you which florist’s blooms really pop, and your reception manager should know which band packs the dance floor.

7 8

Classify your cash. Start budget planning by making a checklist of the crucial details, like the music, your wedding gown, the invitations, the flowers and the photographer, and assign a number to each – one being the most important and three being the least. Invest your money in all of your number ones, and cut corners on your number threes. For example, if a designer gown and fabulous food are what really matter, you may have to choose simple invitations and smaller floral arrangements.

9

Call the fashion police. Don’t go dress shopping on your own. All of the gowns will start to look the same after a while, and it will be harder to recall which style you really loved. But be careful about who you do bring. If your mom or sibling can’t make the trip, ask a friend who is truly honest. This is the time when you really need to know which dress looks best.

10

Be realistic with your time. When it comes down to the last month of planning, look at your to-do list and cut three things, but not crucial things that you just don’t feel like doing, such as picking a processional song or confirming final details with all of your vendors. Eliminate only the over-the-top tasks like handpainting “Just Married” signs or baking cookies for all of the welcome bags. Cross them off and make a pledge not to think about them again.

Source: www.theknot.com fort bend

magazine • January 2017

27

FOCUS ON HEALTH

By Dr. Peter Osborne

No Grain, No Pain

T

he following is an excerpt from Dr. Osborne’s new book, No Grain, No Pain.

Maybe you’ve been told that your pain is “all in your head.” Perhaps you’ve tried a variety of different therapies and prescription drugs without success. You’re tired, you’re hurting, and you’re fed up.

It happens to countless Americans every year: patients go to doctors’ offices seeking relief and leave with a handful of prescriptions. Those medications work for a time, then stop – or they may never work at all. Millions of people risk becoming dependent on painkillers, never realizing that the very drugs they are taking to fight pain are actually interfering with their body’s own natural healing process, making them feel sicker and more depleted every day. What if there was a better option to combat pain? What if it didn’t involve drugs at all, but rather a way of healing your discomfort and pain from the inside out?

This alternative approach is known as functional medicine, and it’s a methodology that’s gaining more adherents among both doctors and patients alike. Functional medicine focuses on identifying the root causes of disease rather than treating the symptoms, in order to implement meaningful prevention and treatment methods. This approach encourages a true partnership between patient and doctor. The goal is not just to return the patient to health, but also to teach him or her how to remain healthy and prevent disease, and in the process become less dependent on the doctor. It’s obvious that change is needed. Americans spend billions of dollars a year

on medical treatments and medications. Why, then, do we remain among the world’s sickest people?

Some of it is due to the fact that most doctors spend very little time with patients. Medical schools don’t train physicians how to ascertain the origin of disease; instead, they are taught to eliminate symptoms with drugs that manipulate the body’s chemistry. I’m not saying that this kind of medicine (and doctors who practice it) isn’t well intentioned. But I do think there’s a different, better way. Each person has a unique set of genetics and biochemistry, and an equally unique set of environmental and lifestyle factors, all of which interact with one another.

In my book No Grain, No Pain, I convey the principles of health from a functional medicine viewpoint. Instead of relying on synthetic drugs, functional medicine seeks to understand a patient’s overall medical history, lifestyle and environmental factors using specialized lab tests, as well as a comprehensive physical evaluation. In part 1, I simplify the science of why grain causes pain. We discuss how inflammation is at the root of all pain. You’ll learn how to escape what I call the “cycle of pain” and avoid “gluten-free whiplash.”

You’ll also come to understand the link between your brain and your gut, as well as the role that grain plays in obesity and other metabolic diseases. Then, in part 2, we’ll move on to the actual 30 day program, which will help you rid your diet of grain and other problematic foods and make other lifestyle changes, so you, too, can start feeling better and living pain free. Read on!

Get your copy today at www.NoGrainNoPainBook.com.

DID YOU KNOW?

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

• Is the only Board Certified Nutritionist in Sugar Land • Is a member of the ACA Council on Nutrition • Is a Doctor of Pastoral Medicine • Has held teaching appointments at Texas Women’s University and HCC’s nursing program • Lectures nationally to other physicians on the topic: drug induced nutritional deficiencies

n Origins Healthcare Centers

Dr. Peter Osborne

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

7616 Bradford Place #110, Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-240-2229 • www.DrPeterOsborne.com TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • January 2017

28

2nd Annual

Delight your taste buds with creations from Fort Bend’s favorite food establishments!

Appetizers, Entrées and Desserts from Behind the Bash, Dekkers, Gringo’s, Saltgrass, Pier 36, Edible Moments, The Sweet Tooth, Lamonte’s, The Swinging Door, The Rouxpour

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magazine • January 2017

29

T

“When we were awarded first place in state, it was a surreal experience,” student Levi Loveless said. “It never would have happened without our theatre teacher pushing us to become better actors and to really take this play seriously.”

FBCA High School Principal Joshua Gettys added, “It is an incredible time to be a member of the Fort Bend Christian Academy Theatre Program and High School! I could not be more Kelsey Brown, Juror 4; Ethan Walker, Juror 8; Olivia Goodman, Juror 7; proud of our students Tolu Akinpelu, Juror 1; Christa Skaria, Juror 5; Michael Pozzi, Juror 3; and Mrs. Thompson for Isabella Hernandez, Juror 12; Hayden Roberts, Juror 2; Kendall Payne, Guard; Kolton Kaminski, Juror 11; Baylee Morales Clemente, Juror 10; the ways in which they Levi Loveless, Judge; Luke Thurston, Juror 9; crew members Fisher have represented them- Galvin and Alex Somarriba and Taylor Font, Juror 6. selves and our school.

God has given our students many will be used as multi-purpose space talents, and it is inspiring to witness for art, sculpture, jewelry making, intheir hard work, commitment and perdustrial design and other varieties of severance come to fruition in this acmediums. It will also be utilized for complishment.” showcasing the arts on the FBCA camThe future looks bright for the pus, providing space for collaborating FBCA Theatre Department. In Deschool, university and community art cember 2016, FBCA completed conexhibitions, lectures and symposiums, struction on a new, state-of-the-art Vibuilding unique sets and backdrops sual Arts Pavilion at the Seven Oaks for drama performances, establishing Campus. The pavilion encompasses a robotics club to increase educational approximately 7,000 square feet and opportunities for engineering students and providing upper level experiences for middle and elementary art classes.

Upcoming FBCA performances include the children’s theatre play Miss Nelson Is Missing! on February 17th and 18th, and on February 24th and 25th, Theatre 3/4 will perform two evenings of student-directed one-act plays.

For more information about the Fine Arts Program at FBCA, contact Celebrating their state win were Cameo Green, Olivia Goodman, Amanda Ajim, Taylor Font, Kolton Kaminski, Tolu Asade, Ethan Walker, Michael Pozzi, Levi Loveless, Kendall Payne, Luke Thurston, Fisher Galvin, Christa Robert Sanders at 281-263-9175 or at Skaria, Hayden Roberts, Tolu Asade, Baylee Morales Clemente, Alex Somarriba, Lana Thompson, Isabella rsanders@fortbendchristian.org.

Hernandez, Kelsey Brown and Grace Beecroft. he Fort Bend Christian Academy (FBCA) Theatre Department advanced – for the first time in school history – to the TAPPS (Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools) One-Act Play Championship, and their outstanding performance earned them the title of State TAPPS One-Act Play Champions.

Kolton Kaminski received the Honorable Mention Cast Award, and both Ethan Walker and Kelsey Brown received All-Star Cast Awards. “I could not be more proud of this group of students and the hard work they put into making this play come to life,” said Drama & Theatre Arts Teacher Lana Thompson.

The cast performed Twelve Angry Jurors, a play about a jury forced to reconsider its nearly unanimous decision by the single dissenter who sows a seed of reasonable doubt. The story begins after closing arguments have been presented in a homicide case, as the judge is giving his instructions to the jury. The twelve jurors must unanimously decide on a verdict of guilty or not guilty.

“They started this year with the goal to advance, and they came together to form a chemistry onstage that allowed them to fulfill that goal,” Thompson said. “I am so incredibly grateful to have been a part of it all and watch them, step by step, create this world onstage.”

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • January 2017

30

Photo by Robert Sanders and Sarah Fiore.

Fort Bend Christian Academy Theatre Department’s Historic State Win

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magazine • January 2017

31

High School HOT SHOT

By Joan Frances

Meet Ross Trivisonno

A

senior at William P. Clements High School, Ross Trivisonno has accomplished much more than most students his age. His commitment to academics is admirable, and his work in the Global Studies Academy (GSA) and in extracurricular activities sets him apart. Ross has spent his high school career devoted to making the world a better place to live.

Ross is the secretary of the GSA student council and a director of competition for Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA).

Ross is also a member of the English Honor Society, National Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society and the University Interscholastic League (UIL) Current Issues and Events team. Since his freshman year, he has been a member of Model United Nations (UN) and has served as a delegate to eight regional and state-wide conferences.

“My philosophy is that you need to work hard, persevere and have goals to be successful in life,” Ross said. “One of the many things that

Ross Trivisonno as a member of the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council with former Sugar Land Mayor James Thompson.

Ross Clements has instilled in me is a powerful sense of hard work and dedication to certain activities that I’m passionate about, whether it be politics, DECA, Model UN, the Global Studies Academy or my coursework.”

Being in the GSA has amplified Ross’ open-mindedness for new ideas, cultures and experiences — another value that he aspires to personify every day. His leadership abilities are inspiring. “Being a leader is more than just a role but an experience for both me and those I represent, since the best way to learn is to teach and guide others. As secretary of the GSA, I have the dream job of serving as both the administrative leader of the council, as well as the editor-in-chief of World News Breakdown, a monthly current events newsletter.”

In addition to his extensive school involvement, Ross is an Eagle Scout and is engaged in political activism. He has volunteered at the Democratic National Convention, served as a staffer to several political campaigns at the presidential and local levels and has

worked with the Houston Sierra Club’s Political Action Committee to spread environmental awareness in the political circuit by influencing legislative platforms of local politicians.

Ross’ high school experience has been very gratifying. “I have the pleasure of going to school with some of the best and brightest students in the Houston area, and I have always tried to surround myself with peers who challenge me. As the saying goes, ‘If you are the smartest one in the room, you are in the wrong room.’”

If Ross had to choose one high school teacher who has had the largest impact on his life and future career aspirations, it would have to be his freshman World Geography and Advanced Placement Human Geography teacher Christine Badillo.

“Her non-stop positivity and passion for the world around her shines through, and she can truly make any student love geography! Through my participation in Model UN and UIL Current Issues and Events, Mrs. Badillo has been more than just a teacher; she’s been a mentor and inspiration to me and so many other students.”

Ross is unsure where he will attend college next fall, but he would like to double major in political science and business and possibly attend law school in the future. Congratulations on your incredible achievements and commitment to humanity Ross. Good luck as you continue to make the world a better place for everyone.

“Being a leader is more than just a role but an experience for both me and those I represent, since the best way to learn is to teach and guide others.” – Ross Trivisonno TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • January 2017

32

PARENTS’ GUIDE TO

absolutely

Kid Friendly Private Schools & 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

Fusion Academy Montessori Kids Universe Fort Bend Christian Academy Gingerbread Kids’ Academy The Walden School Creating Healthy Eating Habits

fort bend

magazine • January 2017

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Advertorial

absolutely! Kid Friendly Fusion Academy: A Revolutionary Way to School

Fusion Academy is a revolutionary, accredited private middle and high school where positive relationships and one-to-one classrooms unlock academic potential. This allows them to personalize and customize curriculum for each student’s unique strengths, interests and learning style.

Fusion Academy’s supportive staff and campus environment provide a safe space for students to flourish emotionally, socially and academically. It includes a state-of-the-art recording studio and a mixed-media art studio for students to express their creativity. Students complete all of their homework on campus in the Homework Café® before they leave for the day.

Classes are offered at three levels: essential, college prep and honors. From algebra to yoga and everything in between, Fusion Academy has over 450 courses to choose from. Students can enroll full-time, take classes for credit or utilize tutoring services. Outside of academics, Fusion Academy partners with outside therapeutic professionals to support students’ emotional health and help foster a balanced life.

While it’s impossible to put students into categories, Fusion Academy generally serves students with the following backgrounds: attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), accelerated and gifted learners, dyslexia, dysgraphia and learning differences, social challenges and social anxiety or students with challenging schedules. Students who attend Fusion Academy have one thing in common: Traditional school isn’t working.

Join Fusion Academy for a summer semester! Catch up, get ahead or try something new! Find out more at www.FusionSummer.com.

Fusion Sugar Land is located at 13440 University Boulevard, Suite 260. For more information, call 281-207-9506 or visit www.FusionSugarLand.com.

believe. achieve. lead.

Open House for Prospective Students February 12 | 2-4 pm

281-263-9105 | fortbendchristian.org/RSVP 281-263-9175 | 1250 Seventh Street, Sugar Land, TX 77478 TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • January 2017

34

Montessori Kids Universe Leaves Kids and Parents Smiling Montessori Kids Universe, an authentic Montessori pre-school offering programs for children ages six months to six years, opened its doors on November 7, 2016. Led by Head of School Dr. Rebecca Deurlein and a team of educators experienced in childcare and trained in Montessori, the school introduced its Montessori curriculum enhanced by its one-of-a-kind Reggio Emilia science and art enrichment program to Sugar Land.

Being brand new, the school attracted attention for its clean environment, healthy, organic, made-fresh-daily lunches and its commitment to high standards and excellent care. Parents have noticed the difference in the level of care and are thrilled with the results.

“We could not be happier,” said a toddler mom. “We feel so grateful to have found a school that our son loves. In one short week, he bonded with the staff and smiled when he got to school.”

The pre-school is open year-round with a special summer camp that will leave kids and parents smiling. Learning never stops as each child moves at his or her own pace and teachers work to take students to a higher level. The DaVinci Kids enrichment program is the only one in Fort Bend County and ensures that all kids learn through hands-on, creative methods with proven results. Teachers emphasize cooperation, respect, responsibility for oneself and kindness, something that impacts children their entire lives.

Montessori Kids Universe is located at 2600 Cordes Drive off Lexington and Highway 6, across from First Colony Mall. For more information or to schedule a tour, call 281-299-5187 or visit www.MontessoriKidsSugarLand.com.

absolutely! Kid Friendly

Montessori Kids Universe ...

Because your kids deserve the best!

An environment of high standards.

At Montessori Kids Universe, we offer the smallest teacher:student ratios you’ll find, after school learning enhancement programs, and uniforms that reflect the pride in our school. No other pre-school operates at our caliber or holds as high a standard as we do.

Mixed age classrooms.

The Reggio Emilia art and science program.

Montessori-trained teachers using Montessori methods.

Individual education plans.

Registering now for our Summer Program!

Smiles, laughter and the joy of learning all summer long.

An emphasis on cooperation, manners and self-responsibility.

All of this means that a quality Montessori education gives you your best value and return on investment.

Mention this ad for $ 500 OFF Tuition

Dr. Rebecca Deurlein

281.299.5187

Head of School

2600 Cordes Dr. Sugar Land, TX 77479 MontessoriKidsSugarLand.com fort bend

magazine • January 2017

35

Advertorial

absolutely! Kid Friendly

Fort Bend Christian Academy

Where Children Learn and Grow

Get an Early Start to Your Child’s Education

Celebrating 30 years of service to Fort Bend County, Fort Bend Christian Academy (FBCA) exists to glorify God through excellence in college preparatory Christian education. FBCA is a Pre-Kindergarten through grade 12 private, college preparatory Christian school located on a 35-acre campus in the heart of Sugar Land. With an enrollment of 800, students attend over 100 area churches and are active members of the Fort Bend county community.

Students at FBCA receive an academically challenging course of study with curriculum designed to provide a superior spiritual and intellectual environment. An Honors Degree Program, Advanced Placement options and dual credit classes are offered at the high school level, and middle school students with accelerated educational development may also participate in an honors curriculum. Spiritually, academically and professionally qualified, all teaching staff are certified educators, many possessing a master’s degree or higher.

FBCA boasts small class sizes, uniforms, a hot lunch program, before and after school programs, as well as enrichment classes, clubs and strong community service involvement. With competitive, state championship athletics and an award-winning fine arts programs, 100 percent of FBCA graduates are accepted to college, most to their first choice school, and include National Merit scholars, military service appointees and recipients of numerous scholarship offers.

For more information about FBCA, contact the admissions team at admissions@fortbendchristian.org or call 281-263-9143.

See ad on page 34.

I’m Ready to Learn!

Coming February 2017 Special Advertising Section

Quality, Affordable Early Childhood Education Programs

Love Is in the Air

Convenient Access to Hwy 59 281-239-2110

To advertise call,

Valentine’s Gift Guide Listing

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TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

fortbendfocus.com .com • January 2017

36

absolutely! Kid Friendly

Monday thru Friday 6:30 am to 6:30 pm

Infants Toddlers 3 and 4 year-old Private, Full-Day Pre-K Programs K-5th After-School Programs for Pick-Up

from Thomas, Williams and Arredondo Elementary Conveniently Located Near:

FM

magazine • January 2017

37

2 76

fort bend

GREATWOOD SUBDIVISION

FM

Bonbrook Briarwood Crossing 9 76 Brazos Y5 HW 2 Town Center Bridlewood Estates Greatwood REA D. DIN ER River Park West G NIT RD O N .

N River’s Run ME 7/ 297 Summer Lakes .

FM RD The Oaks of Rosenberg ON NT E B The Reserve Walnut Creek

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There is much to celebrate with the dawning of a New Year. This past year, the Gingerbread Family of Learning Centers celebrated the two year anniversary of the Gingerbread Kids’ Academy in Richmond, and this March, they will celebrate their third anniversary and the beginning of the 36th anniversary of The Gingerbread House Learning Center in Rosenberg. The Gingerbread Kids’ Academy and Gingerbread House Learning Center have developed an environment where children can learn and grow. The programs are designed for children ages eight weeks to 12 years and offer a variety of activities throughout the year.

Research has shown that in order for a child to be successful in school and life, they must begin with a strong foundation in learning. Gingerbread has designed a curriculum that includes an emphasis on reading, writing, science, math, discovery and exploration, as well as social skills development. The infant and toddler programs focus on the development of both gross and fine motor skills along with basic language development. The three to five-year-old PreSchool and Pre-K programs focus on academics, peer relationships and preparation for entry into kindergarten and elementary school. The Gingerbread AfterSchool programs, located onsite at Frost, Hutchison, Hubenak, Arredondo and Bentley Elementary, as well as onsite at the Gingerbread Kids’ Academy and Gingerbread House, offer homework assistance, arts, crafts, games and sports and the values based Junior Achievement Program.

A new year means new beginnings. The Gingerbread Family invites you to come by for a visit. Both locations are now accepting enrollments for the 2017 school year. For more information, contact Tim Kaminski at 281-239-2110 or e-mail twkaminski@sbcglobal. net.

814 FM 2977 281-239-2110 Richmond www.gbkidsacademy.com twkaminski@sbcglobal.net 77469

CRABB RIVER

Gingerbread: Affordable Quality Early Education in Fort Bend County

Advertorial

absolutely! Kid Friendly

Advertorial

Now Accepting 2017 Registrations www.rightchoiceforkids.org

Infants through Pre-Kindergarten Private Kindergarten through 2nd Grade

You have high expectations... and so do we.

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“I have been blown away by the progress my son has made in Summer Camps Mrs. Paula’s kindergarten class. She allows Ryan to explore learning, •Soccer & T-ball while patiently helping him organize, regulate and work with others.

•Gymnastics If only all kindergarten teachers were like Mrs. Paula!” – Parent Testimonial •Tae Kwon Do

•Piano Lessons •Kumon •Ballet & Jazz

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281-980-0022 • www.thewaldenschool.com

Planting the seeds of creativity Voice and Piano lessons Location: Sugar Land

For information, please call:

(516) 521-2216 Or email:

centuryfineartstexas@gmail.com Artistic Director: Dominique McCormick -20 years experience teaching voice and piano in the United States and France, Queens College and Paris Conservatory -Doctorate in Voice from CUNY Graduate Center- New York NY -Performed in over 300 productions of opera and oratorio nationally and internationally

The Walden School NAEYC Accredited Parent testimonials say it all: “I have been blown away by the progress my son has made in Mrs. Paula’s Kindergarten class. She allows Ryan to explore learning while patiently helping him organize, regulate and work with others. If only all kindergarten teachers were like Mrs. Paula!”

The Walden School is a dynamic NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) Accredited school, welcoming infants through Kindergarten, and is highly endorsed, providing a strong foundation for future success in elementary education. The program is rich in multi-method teaching practices with innovative science and nature-based studies, literature-centered reading and exceptional math instruction.

With a child-centered program with leading curriculum, the first and second grades promote growth with individualized instruction and maximum direct teacher-to-student interaction. The Walden School offers a great summer camp program through fifth grade. Children can learn through field trips, reading and math lab, swimming, gymnastics, taekwondo and more.

Visit the Walden School, located behind First Colony Mall at 16103-A Lexington Boulevard in Sugar Land, and meet the director Mike McGilvray, 2012 Administrator of the Year, along with his experienced staff. Hours are 6:30 am to 6:30 pm, Monday through Friday.

For more information, visit thewaldenschool.com or call 281-980-0022.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • January 2017

38

er n r Co iron

sB’ y Patrick B d i K

Nighttime Fears

and Things That Go Bump

D

arkness holds a special place in the hall of horrors that everyone keeps in their minds. For a number of reasons, nighttime becomes a spark for fears people never knew they had. And with young children ages two through about 10, dealing with these fears is a skill that needs to be learned and a phase that needs to be passed.

As a normal part of development, children begin to develop an imagination. This is a beautifully poetic phase for a parent. They see their child playing independently, building and manipulating whole worlds and creating characters, conflict, heroes, resolution and more.

This stage is critical, since the ability to conceive and appreciate that which can’t be seen or felt is crucial for developing empathy, complex moral decision making and pretty much everything that makes one a civilized human in society.

But for a young child, this newfound “superpower” of imagining things that aren’t there can create nightmares, fears and things that go bump in the night.

For a young child struggling with nighttime fears, there are a few key things parents can do. First, distinguish between what the child is imagining and how that imagination makes him feel.

Take steps to disprove what he is imagining, but never diminish or brush aside how those fears make him feel. Ac-

knowledge that the fear is very real, and that’s okay. But what scares the child is not. A parent’s job is to teach their child how to prevent and deal with it in the future.

Next, in a world where movies and television are becoming more and more realistic, it can be difficult for children to distinguish the difference between fantasy and reality. In many ways, this fear of the unknown is exacerbated, because while a young mind has the ability to imagine something, it hasn’t developed enough to rationalize what is real and what is not. Keep in mind what the child is experiencing during the day, and either remove certain stimuli that might be hard for the child to understand or take the time to speak about what is real, what is not and how the adults in the child’s life are there to keep him safe.

Finally, imagination is a result of a lack of stimuli. Put another way, no child has imagined a monster under his bed while watching a movie on an iPad or reading fort bend

magazine • January 2017

39

with Mom and Dad. When a child is left with no distractions, his mind naturally begins to wander to keep itself occupied. In darkness, this usually journeys towards the scary and evil. Try to structure both the child’s bedtime routine and sleeping space to give him things to actively think about, as well as reassure him. My son has a fish tank in his room, and the noise, light and moving fish help keep him distracted. We also leave the bathroom light on and his door open.

Finally, a night light that casts moving stars on his ceiling gives him something to focus on.

In truth, everyone is afraid of things.

Everyone struggles to control their imagination, focus on what is real and keep the “monsters” at bay. A parent’s job is not to keep their kids from ever being scared, but rather, show them that even Mommy and Daddy can get scared of things. Sometimes, fear is good and keeps us safe. There are real fears they should listen to and some they should try to conquer. The more information, truth and empathy a parent can provide, the better decisions children can make with their fears, and the more they will realize that they aren’t alone and that the darkness doesn’t hold as many unknowns as they thought.

absolutely! Kid Friendly Source: Family Features Photos courtesy of Getty Images.

Creating Healthy Eating Habits

W

hen it comes to eating, it can be difficult to find foods that kids can enjoy while also introducing them to valuable nourishment and health principles. Instead of giving in to ice cream for every meal or forcing children to eat something their taste buds don’t agree with, there are tasty recipes like Chicken Noodle Soup, Cinnamon-Sprinkled French Toast and Flower Salad that can quench their appetites without giving up nutritional value. These fun recipes can give kids a chance to help in the kitchen, learning important life skills while spending quality time with family.

To find more fun, kid-friendly recipes that include both taste and nourishment, visit culinary.net.

The Classic Kid-Favorite When mealtime hits and bellies start growling, turn to a classic to keep your kids full and satisfied. Chicken Noodle Soup has always been a favorite among children, so keep tradition alive in your family with this scrumptious recipe.

Chicken Noodle Soup

Recipe Courtesy of the National Chicken Council

Broth: 1 2 1/2 4 2 2 6 2 1 1/2 1

Chicken (3 pounds), liver discarded Quarts cold water Carrots, peeled and cut into bite-size pieces Onions, peeled Celery stalks with leaves, cut into 4 pieces Cloves garlic, peeled Fresh thyme sprigs or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme Teaspoons kosher salt Teaspoon whole black peppercorns

Soup: 1 1 1/8 1/8 2 2

Cup small pasta, cooked Cup frozen peas, thawed Teaspoon salt Teaspoon pepper Tablespoons fresh dill, chopped Tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

To prepare broth: In large pot over high heat, bring chicken and all remaining broth ingredients to boil. Reduce heat to low; skim surface of broth to remove foam. Let simmer 1 1/2 hours, skimming occasionally, and turning chicken. Add more water if necessary to keep chicken submerged.

Remove chicken with tongs and cool. Strain broth through fine sieve. Discard celery, herbs and spices. Reserve onions and carrots. Remove any excess fat from top of broth with spoon.

Pull chicken meat from bones and discard skin and bones.

Dice chicken and reserve. Quarter cooked onions, if desired.

To prepare soup: In large pot over high heat, return strained chicken broth and bring to rolling boil. Add reserved onions and carrots. Reduce heat to low; stir in reserved chicken meat, pasta and frozen peas, cooking until warm. Season with salt and pepper. Ladle soup into bowls and top with dill and parsley. .com • January 2017

40

Flower Salad

Recipe Courtesy of Ellie Krieger

Flower: 1 9-10

1/2 1 2 1

Cuties clementine Thinly sliced strips red bell pepper, cut in 1-inch pieces Grape tomato Celery stick, cut to 3 inches Small leaves romaine lettuce Piece English cucumber, unpeeled, seeded and cut to 1 1/2 inches then thinly sliced

Dip: 2 1/2 1/4

Connect Kids with Food for Healthy Habits More than nine in 10 millennial moms think it’s important for their kids to learn about where their food comes from, and more than three-quarters of those moms actively do things with their kids to help learn just that. Building healthy habits is the top reason moms cite for encouraging more learning when it comes to food, according to research conducted by Ipsos on behalf of Cuties – the sweet little clementines. Even when the weather is colder outside, recipes like this Flower Salad can help encourage kids to eat healthy for a lifetime.

Tablespoons plain Greek yogurt Teaspoon honey Teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Peel clementine and separate sections almost all the way, leaving attached at the base. Place on plate with base down. Place piece of red bell pepper between each citrus section, and half tomato in center to form flower.

Place celery and lettuce leaves underneath as stem and leaves. Arrange cucumber slices below to represent grass.

In small bowl, stir together yogurt, honey and lemon juice. Serve dip in dish alongside flower or in a mound underneath cucumber slices.

Nutritional information per serving: 76 calories; 0.5 g total fat; (0.3 g saturated fat, 0.2 g poly fat); 4 g protein; 15 g carbohydrates; 2 g fiber; 2 mg cholesterol; 21 mg sodium.

A Memorable Morning Meal Whether it’s before school or after sleeping in on a Saturday morning, breakfast is a popular meal for children of all ages. Next time you and your family rise and shine, go with this recipe for Cinnamon-Sprinkled French Toast to keep the whole gang happy.

Cinnamon-Sprinkled French Toast

Recipe courtesy of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) 2 2 1/2 2 1 4

Large eggs Tablespoons fat-free milk Teaspoon ground cinnamon Slices whole-wheat bread Teaspoon soft margarine Teaspoons light pancake syrup

In flat-bottomed bowl, crack eggs.

Thoroughly whisk in milk and cinnamon. Dip bread slices, one at a time, into egg mixture, wetting both sides. Re-dip, if necessary, until all egg mixture is absorbed into bread.

Meanwhile, heat large, nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add butter. Place dipped bread slices in skillet. Cook 2 1/2-3 minutes per side, or until both sides are golden brown. Drizzle with syrup. Serve when warm.

fort bend

magazine • January 2017

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Nutritional information per serving: 190 calories; 8 g total fat; (3 g saturated fat); 10 g protein; 19 g carbohydrates; 2 g fiber; 215 mg cholesterol; 250 mg sodium.

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Plans for the 2017 Reading between the Wines event are well on their way!

This year’s featured author is best-selling author Candace Bushnell. Set for Friday, March 31st at Safari Texas Ranch in Richmond, Reading between the Wines is co-chaired by Helen Bow and Gena Horak. Nancy Olson will serve as emcee for the evening.

Mary Gayle Brindley is this year’s Honorary Chair. Brindley served on the board of directors for the Literacy Council from 1997 to 2009 and was the chair in 2001.

She now serves on the Advisory Council and is an active participant on the Reading between the Wines committee. She is incredibly enthusiastic in all aspects of the Literacy Council’s fundraising efforts and in many other Fort Bend County non-profit organizations. No task is too big or too small. Her family and her community are her passions.

“My years of service on the board of directors were truly the most gratifying of all my years of being involved in the Fort Bend community, because I know in my head and heart the gift of literacy is the most genuine gift we could give to those who need it,” said Brindley. “There are countless benefits from providing adult literacy, but the one I like best is that it creates and restores confidence and dignity, because at the end of the day, it’s a hand up instead of a hand out.

I am incredibly honored and flattered to be the Honorary Chair of the 2017 Reading between the Wines.”

The Literacy Council of Fort Bend County is so grateful to Brindley for her efforts in working with the agency and thanks her for her contributions to the

Helen Bow, Mary Gayle Brindley and Gena Horak.

community. She is the perfect honoree for the Literacy Council’s 30th Anniversary and this year’s Reading between the Wines.

Sponsorship opportunities are available and range from $500 to $15,000.

Benefits include admission to a VIP party, reserved premier seating and more.

Individual tickets are $125 and include live music, wine, a “restaurant stroll” featuring tastes from local chefs and restaurants, the opportunity to bid on exciting auction items, music and dancing! Book clubs have the opportunity to attend at a special book club rate of $1,000 for a table of 10 guests.

For more information about Reading between the Wines or The Literacy Council of Fort Bend County, contact Events Coordinator Emily K. Stuart at estuart@ftbendliteracy.org or 281-2408181.

Submit newsworthy items Sarah@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

fort bend

magazine • January 2017

43

Photo by Robbin Mallett.

NEWSWORTHY

The Pub Fountains Presents Fort Bend Cares’ 12th Annual Road Trip Fundraiser Ready for some tropical fun? Join presenting sponsor The Pub Fountains for Fort Bend Cares’ 12th Annual Road Trip to the South Pacific on Saturday, January 28th at 6:30 pm.

Also supporting this fun in the sun event are diamond sponsors Fairmount Santrol and Grant Thornton LLP and titanium sponsors Silver Eagle Distributors and Fluor.

The Fluor Building, located at One Fluor Daniel Drive in Sugar Land, will be transformed into the South Pacific complete with palm trees, tiki huts and Polynesian dancers! Emcee Khambrel Marshall of KPRC Channel 2 will keep the evening flowing while auctioneer Fort Bend County Sheriff Troy Nehls conducts the live auction bidding. Throughout the evening, guests can sample culinary delights from 12 local restaurants, play a hand or two of blackjack or Texas shootout, try their luck at the wine and spirits pull, check out the silent auction, buy a raffle ticket and more. Money raised from this event supports non-profit organizations that strive to improve

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

Cheryl Brown, Terri Nieser, Jann Talley, Bruce Gingrich, Angie Wierzbicki and Melinda Henry.

the lives of disadvantaged children in Fort Bend County. What a great way to kick off 2017!

Sponsorships are available from $1,000 to $15,000. Individual tickets are $75 and $50 for young professionals aged 35 and under if purchased before January 13th. Ticket prices increase to $85 and $60 respectively after January 13th.

For more information or to become a sponsor, visit www. fortbendcares.org, email angie@fortbendcares.org or call 832-819-2005.

.com • January 2017

44

Fort Bend Junior Service League Accepting Scholarship Applications

Tax Accountants

Auditors

Consultants

The Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) is offering two scholarship programs to assist women in Fort Bend County who desire to further their education: The FBJSL Volunteer Scholarship and The FBJSL New Beginnings Scholarship.

The FBJSL Volunteer Scholarship applicant must be an outstanding Fort Bend female high school senior who has completed at least 100 hours of high school community service, has a minimum GPA of 2.5 and desires to pursue higher education in the 2017-2018 school year.

The FBJSL New Beginnings Scholarship applicant must be a Fort Bend woman who has a specific degree or career advancement goal in mind and who has had a significant break in her education following high school graduation, completion of her GED or last full-time semester at an accredited college, vocational school or university.

Michelle Beeson, Kavita Self, Laura Taylor, Dana Clement, Courtney Kilfoy, Karen Young, Avanthika Mahendrababu, Markisha Venzant-Sampson, Kalpana Vaidya, Becky Zachary and Audra O’Neal.

FBJSL awards up to four Volunteer Scholarships at a value of $1,000 each, and up to one New Beginnings Scholarship will be awarded at a value of $2,000. The deadline to submit applications is Wednesday, February 1st.

Qualified scholarship applicants can learn more about these programs and obtain a copy of the application by visiting www.fbjsl.org/scholarship-programs. All applications and supporting documents must be sent to brccom@ fbjsl.com.

It’s Tax Time . . .

Are You Prepared?

Call 281.242.3232 or

e-mail info@cpa-tx.com for a free consultation.

Submit newsworthy items Sarah@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

fort bend

130 Industrial Blvd., Suite 130 Sugar Land, TX 77478 Toll Free 888.812.5999 www.cpa-tx.com magazine • January 2017

45

New Year’s Resolutions

By Zeenat Kassam Mitha

C

MMUNITY

Culture

N

Around the Bend

ew Year’s resolutions are a wonderful way to begin 2017! Resolutions are about new beginnings and being hopeful and persistent. They also serve as an incentive for impactful personal change. I have always thought that it is not the level of the change that matters, but the act of acknowledging the change and taking one step at a time towards it.

My resolutions for 2017 are to spend more time with my family and loved ones, eat less sweets and carbs, and simplify my life to do more of what makes me happy such as traveling, community service and giving back to families in need.

May good health, happiness, peace and prosperity be part of every member of our Fort Bend community!

We asked some community leaders about their New Year’s resolutions. Here’s what they had to say: “Be more compassionate to those in need and more understanding of views other than or different than my own.”

– Mayor Joe Zimmerman Sugar Land

“My resolution is the same I made for Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. I resolve to be better than I was last year by increasing good deeds and good behavior.”

– Hillary Goldstein

“My New Year’s resolution is to have fun in 2017! Life is too short, and I do not want pressures to get to me. I am just going to enjoy everything that comes my way.

I have actually already started!”

– Fernando Echeverria “My New Year’s resolution is to stay balanced spiritually, physically, mentally and socially, while using my gifts and talents to serve others and our community.”

– Terri Wang

“Try to eat healthier. Try to enjoy the little victories more, and remember that life has a way of balancing itself, so don’t get too high with the big wins or too low with the losses.”

– Rehan Alimohammad TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

“My resolution for the New Year will be to maintain a progressive and forward thinking relationship with the constituents of Fort Bend County Precinct 2. We have a lot of projects coming up in the future that I believe will really benefit the country.”

– Commissioner Grady Prestage Fort Bend County, Precint 2

“My resolution is to spend more time with family and enjoy simple things like having a picnic or home cooked dinners.”

– Judge Maggie Jaramillo 400th District Court

“I will take time and patience to learn to find joy in the little things and not to let problems bring me down.”

– Rashmi Sharma

.com • January 2017

46

NEWSWORTHY

Across 1 He’s white and often has

a pipe and a carrot for a nose 5 Drink holder 7 Have some burgers 8 Fireworks 9 Make a ___!

11 You can get money from it 13 Women’s soccer star ___ Hamm 16 Frozen water 17 Pickup ___ 18 Getting on in years 20 Like an open fire 23 They take you up

and down a mountain 25 Pull along 26 Alternative word 27 Where you can see things

you might want for Christmas

(2 words) See answers on page 55.

fort bend

magazine • January 2017

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Down 1 You can ride on it over

the snow and get pulled by dogs 2 Away from home 3 White candy that is

soft and spongy 4 These kids get presents from

Santa (opposite of naughty) 5 These nuts get roasted in winter 6 Send a letter 10 ___ gotta be me!

12 They make everything brighter 14 Where it’s ___ 15 They travel on snow

down the mountains 19 English princess, Lady ___ 21 Sound people make when

they are surprised and happy 22 Couple 24 Enjoyment 26 Ouch!

BRAIN TEASER

Every year, the Fort Bend Aggie Moms’ Club raises funds throughout the year to award scholarships to deserving students attending Texas A&M University – College Station, Galveston or Blinn TEAM. The Scholarship Program seeks to recognize and reward Texas A&M University students who are proficient in academics, involved in purposeful activities outside the classroom with emphasis on campus-sponsored organizations, leadership and service and demonstrate a commitment to help fund their own college education.

Applicants must be a resident of Fort Bend County with a permanent mailing address within Brazos ISD, Fort Bend ISD, Kendleton ISD, Lamar Consolidated ISD, Needville ISD or Stafford MSD. In addition this year 2016-17, school districts, which our Adopt-AMoms’ members live will be included in the scholarship process. This includes Jenks School District, Burbank Unified School District, Huron School District, and Denali Borough School District.

The applicant must be enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours at the time of the application and be classified as a sophomore, junior or senior student in good standing for the fall semester following the award. Applications must be postmarked by Saturday, February 11th or received by Monday, February 13th.

Incomplete or late applications will not be accepted or considered.

For more information and to download the application form, visit https:// fortbendmoms.aggienetwork.com.

Also, new on the website is the Patsy Armbruster/Southerland Aggie Leadership Scholarship. The application deadline is Wednesday, February 1st.

By Myles Mellor

Winter Clues

The Fort Bend Aggie Moms’ Club Scholarship Application Is Now Open

By Christopher Hill

Surrounding him are his business partners Whit (Edward Norton), Claire (Kate Winslet) and Simon (Michael Pena), who care for him but are torn by his ongoing detachment. Their once soaring business, built around the mind of Howard, is now teetering.

When their efforts to return him to their reality are consistently thwarted, they seek to sell the business. But they need a fully present Howard – or they need to present him as someone mentally incapable of voting for or against a deal.

For his part, Howard is deeply immersed in anger and frustration over losing his daughter. He begins to write letters, not to people in the world but to the forces of nature that have ruined his life. He writes to “Time” in anger for stealing his daughter’s time and the shared experiences that will not happen. He pens a note to “Love,” simply saying goodbye because he could love no one more and will no longer love again. Finally, he writes to “Death” for not taking the bargain he offered – his life for hers.

T

he holiday season is a time of joy for many but a time of deep reflection and sorrow for others. Grief can take many forms, but none can be deeper than the loss of a child. When a parent’s light of the world goes out, those who remain are cast adrift. Collateral Beauty focuses on the journey of Howard Inlet (Will Smith), a brilliant marketing executive decimated by the death of his six-yearold daughter.

Will Smith as Howard and Helen Mirren as Brigitte in Collateral Beauty.

Will Smith as Howard and Jacob Latimore as Raffi in Collateral Beauty.

When these letters are discovered, his partners hire actors to play the roles of the villains in Howard’s life – the entities he is writing to. Those actors not only present a counter to his letters, but they also allow his business partners to discover a sense of humanity they had consciously left behind.

The story is predicated on loss. In their own way, everyone in the film is losing something, and all are dealing with the three ghosts of lives past.

This is an outstanding cast with a deep

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • January 2017

48

Will Smith as Howard and Keira Knightley as Amy in Collateral Beauty.

canvas to explore. Will Smith again delivers a genuine and honest portrayal of a man on the brink – a man on the verge of the end with no understanding of how or any desire to emerge.

The viewer feels his downward spiral.

It is a performance worthy of awards.

Throughout the narrative, he plays off the actors presented, either to bring him back from the edge or to push him over. The soliloquies with Death (Helen Mirren), Love (Keira Knightly) and Time (Jacob Latimore) are all understated but powerful.

This is not a perfect film. There are some odd choices, especially near the end of the film where the need of movie producers to provide a twist to every story is simply unnecessary. Just the story of this man and his struggle is enough. The strong performances of the cast, but most importantly of Smith and Naomie Harris (Madeleine), bring home an account that forces the viewer to examine how deep their own spiral would be and if they could ever find clarity in a world that no longer mattered.

If you need something quiet and moving, Collateral Beauty is an enticing alternative. It is an emotional journey that focuses on death, time and love – and discovers hope.

Collateral Beauty Now Showing: In Local Theaters Rated: PG-13 Language: Mild Swearing Sexuality: None Violence: None © 2016 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc., Village Roadshow Films North America Inc. and Ratpac-Dune Entertainment, LLC. Photos by Barry Wetcher.

New Year, New You

FEATURING 5 Ways to Create Healthy Days Salon Eben & Day Spa Dr. Peter Osborne Sugar Land Face and Body Plastic Surgery Discover Wellness Dr. Shel Wellness & Aesthetic Center Sugar Land Plastic Surgery Elite Doc Health and Beauty

REJUVENATION & WELLNESS Special Advertising Section

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magazine • January 2017

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New Year, New You Ways To Create Healthy Days

R

ing in the New Year with a resolution that you can stick with. Contrary to popular belief, overall health is more than just being free of disease or chronic illness.

Other factors, such as access to fresh foods, neighborhood walkability and public safety, to name a few, can help cultivate more healthy days.

Respondents to an Aetna Foundation survey said local aspects have a large effect on health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also acknowledges that a person’s zip code is a good indicator of an individual’s health and longevity.

However, there are small, everyday steps one can make for a fresh, healthy start this year, such as these five easy tips.

1

Incorporate 30 minutes of exercise. Forty-nine percent of Americans say they exercise to improve their overall health, according to the survey. To beat the rush, head to the gym early in the morning. Although it can be difficult to visit your local gym or recreational center before sunrise, getting at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day can not only start the day off strong, but also help you feel more energized and aid in maintaining a healthy weight. Other ways to get daily exercise include taking part in sports, riding your bike on a path close to home or walking in a neighborhood park.

2

Drink more water and plan meals. It’s easy to splurge on food and drink during the holiday season, but the new year is a good time to swap candy canes and pumpkin pie for fruits, veggies and water. Planning meals ahead of time can help you incorporate healthier food options into your diet. Drinking water throughout the day instead of sugary sodas and juices helps your body regulate temperature, lubricates and cushions joints, protects the spinal cord and sensitive tissues and helps prevent weight gain.

3

Step away for small breaks. Your overall health also includes your emotional health and well-being. More than eight out of 10 Americans surveyed said their mood and stress level has an equal impact on their health as the food they consume. Life can get busy and overwhelming as you jump back into a post-holiday routine, but simple acts like taking a few deep breaths, standing and stretching or taking a walk can help calm the mind and relieve stress.

4

Put your smartphone and body on sleep mode. The amount of sleep you get can have a direct impact on your mood and health. Sixty-four percent of respondents said they need at least eight hours of sleep to have a healthy day. Add reading a few new books to your yearly goals to help you unplug from electronics an hour or more before going to bed, and ensure you get the rest you need.

5

Get involved. More than nine out of 10 Americans said they are willing to take action to create a healthier environment. Using a strong support system of friends and family, you can help each other ensure 2017 is a healthy year. Organize ways to stick with your resolutions as a group, such as scheduling a weekly walk, planning a neighborhood recycling contest, registering for a fitness event or signing up to volunteer.

More than what happens in the doctor’s office impacts your health. Incorporating these small changes can help you achieve your goals and lead to a healthier and happier 2017. To learn more, visit HealthiestCities.org.

Source: Family Features Photo courtesy of Getty Images.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • January 2017

50

New Year, New You

Coming FEBRUARY 2017

Filling the Nutrient Gap with IV Vitamin Therapy Nutritional deficiencies are a widespread problem that affects countless people.

Deficiencies in key vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other nutrients are associated with many chronic diseases and symptoms including fatigue, insomnia, weight gain, poor memory, recurring infections, migraines, muscle and joint aches and much more.

Unfortunately, we live in an age of processed, genetically modified and nutritionally deficient foods. As people age, their bodies become less able to absorb the nutrients from the foods and supplements they ingest. Environmental toxins and prescription medications can also deplete bodies of vital nutrients, and poor gut health prevents people from properly absorbing them. For these reasons and more, it is vitally important to supplement diets with critical nutrients for health.

IV Therapy is a method of feeding vitamins, minerals and other natural substances directly into the bloodstream. The major advantage of this is bypassing the digestive system, which enables a patient to receive 100 percent of the nutrients.

Even with a healthy gut, the stomach has a threshold of how much it can absorb, making it impossible to receive larger therapeutic doses of nutrients without bypassing the digestive system. The body can begin to use these nutrients instantly, since there is no wait time for the vitamins to pass through the digestive system.

IV therapy is a versatile treatment that can include formulations for a variety of conditions including boosting energy, enhancing the immune system, recovering from illness, relieving migraines, preventing disease and much more.

To learn more about the services offered at Dr. Shel Wellness & Aesthetic Center, visit www.drshel.com or call 281-313-7435.

See Cover Story on page 14.

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Like us on Facebook & Stay Connected fort bend

magazine • January 2017

51

New Year, New You

Advertorial

No Grain, No Pain

In his book No Grain, No Pain, Dr. Peter Osborne conveys the principles of health from a functional medicine viewpoint. Instead of relying on synthetic drugs, functional medicine seeks to understand a patient’s overall medical history, lifestyle and environmental factors using specialized lab tests, as well as a comprehensive physical evaluation.

In part one, Dr. Osborne simplifies the science of why grain causes pain. He discusses how inflammation is at the root of all pain. Readers will learn how to escape what Dr. Osborne calls the “cycle of pain” and avoid “gluten-free whiplash.” They will also come to understand the link between the brain and gut, as well as the role that grain plays in obesity and other metabolic diseases.

Then, in part two, Dr. Osborne moves on to the actual 30 day program, which will help readers rid their diet of grain and other problematic foods and make other lifestyle changes, so they, too, can start feeling better and living pain free. Read on! Published by Simon & Schuster, this new book is currently available at www.

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.com • January 2017

52

Ring in the New Year with a New You From Sugar Land Face and Body Plastic Surgery

One of the hallmarks of the Sugar Land Face and Body experience is the personal analysis that Dr. Eric Humble and his staff provide each patient, the goal of which is to arrive at the best solution for that patient alone. People come with their goals, and Sugar Land Face and Body develops a plan to address those needs and wants in the way that best serves the patient and provides the highest level of personal satisfaction. The variety of tools and techniques available to Dr. Humble and the staff make it possible to customize literally every patient need.

One of the newest – and amazingly effective – treatments Sugar Land Face and Body offers is the Vampire Facial. Kim Kardashian brought it to national attention, and it is available now at Sugar Land Face and Body. Dr. Lin Humble, wife of Sugar Land Face and Body founder Dr. Eric Humble, has employed this technique and found it to be her personal favorite of the less invasive techniques at the center. She has dubbed it her personal “fountain of youth.” The Vampire Facial is essentially a three-step process that “reminds” the body of what it is able to do naturally.

Combining the restorative healing functions of the body with the introduction of the plasma-rich platelets (PRPs), the factor-rich “reminder” allows the reintroduction of collagen and fatty tissue to produce smoothness, and the “vampire effect” begins right away. There is an immediate and noticeable difference, but the long-term effects are evident within two to three weeks of the procedure.

For more information, visit www. beautybecomesyou.com or call 281313-0555.

See ad on page 9.

New Year, New You

Advertorial

AS SEEN ON

Discover Wellness: Weight Loss That Works

Discover Wellness brings one of the newest advancements in natural health and healing to Houston area residents. Their team helps patients reverse health challenges such as excess weight, diabetes, sleep apnea, thyroid disorders, high blood pressure, fibromyalgia and autoimmune issues using an advanced technology system.

Weight gain can be caused by a variety of factors, including digestive issues, blood sugar handling, inflammation, toxins and hormones. Discover Wellness helps clients lose 20 to 40 pounds or more in only 40 days – guaranteed! Using a doctor supervised program, Discover Wellness awakens and resets patients’ metabolism and hypothalamus and balances their hormones without pre-packaged meals, exercise, chemicals, hunger, chemicals, drugs or surgery.

Discover Wellness has locations in Cypress and Missouri City. The Missouri City center is located at 5425 Highway 6, Suite A-300. Contact them to schedule a free review of their customized and exclusive fat burning technology system.

For more information, visit www. discoverwellnesshouston.com or call 281-969-8059.

Joyce Long’s

Colonic - Detox - Lymphatic

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“Our clients become family and we are here to celebrate their WELLNESS”

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Advertorial

New Year, New You Experience Aveda at Salon Eben & Day Spa

In a time when society places a high value on appearance, coloring hair has become a commonplace experience. When getting your hair colored, using healthy products is just as important as choosing a fitting color. Chemicals in most hair dyes sometimes can be damaging and leave hair malnourished. Strong chemicals mixed with unnatural ingredients sometimes cause hair to become brittle, greasy and full of hapless split ends. This is why when choosing a brand of hair dye, it is imperative to choose products composed with natural ingredients such as Aveda.

Aveda products come from a long line of all-natural, plant-based ingredients, which are known to be high-quality, eco-friendly and significantly healthier for hair.

While Aveda products are sold at most high-end salon and retail stores, having a professional stylist color hair can significantly increase the quality and prevent unnecessary damage from misuse of products.

Salon Eben & Day Spa is a family-owned, professional salon that has been using Aveda products for over 25 years. With their experienced staff, relaxing atmosphere and use of all-natural Aveda products, hair will be left healthier, happier and with the least possible adversities from hair coloring.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 281-980-5160 or visit www.salonebendayspa.com.

See ad on page 51.

Achieve Results and Gain Confidence with Sugar Land Plastic Surgery Staying healthy and looking good is a common goal for most women. Sometimes, a hectic lifestyle and a stressful job make it nearly impossible to maintain the ideal body. Also, women often gain or maintain resistant fat in undesirable areas regardless of what they do. Over time, this can be very discouraging and severely impact their body image.

There are many options available to help address unwanted fat. By far, the most effective and reliable is liposuction. The procedure is safe, affordable and can target the difficult, stubborn areas that no amount of diet and exercise can. At Sugar Land Plastic Surgery, Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. John T. Nguyen has seen first-hand, time and time again, how liposuction can make such a remarkable and immediate difference in the appearance of the body, especially in the stubborn areas. This extra help gives patients so much motivation and confidence that they achieve further fitness and live healthier lifestyles.

The Sugar Land Plastic Surgery team offers complimentary consultations with Dr. Nguyen. With your commitment and Sugar Land Plastic Surgery’s help and support, achieve the results you have been working so hard for.

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

See ad on page 7.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • January 2017

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Elite Doc Health and Beauty Now Open in Sugar Land Naz Keshwani, MD, recently announced the grand opening of Elite Doc Health and Beauty med spa at 4665 Sweetwater Boulevard, Suite 200 in Sugar Land. Elite Doc Health and Beauty’s primary goal is to render professional services including quality skin care and anti-aging at affordable costs. Certified clinicians are experts in the specialized therapeutic procedure.

Within the last 30 years, Keshwani gained notoriety and national ranking in the top five percent of providers for Botox injections, including Bellafill and Radiesse, within the Houston market.

Keshwani opened Elite Doc Health and Beauty with a continuing commitment to individual service for women and men who are concerned with their health and beauty.

Keshwani is a family practitioner who completed his medical schooling and internship in Birmingham, England from 1972 to 1979. Keshwani did a three-year residency in a family practice in Fort Wayne, Indiana from 1979 through 1982. He became board certified in family practice in 1982 and has constantly remained so certified.

His life and business partner is Rozmin Keshwani, who is a licensed Xray technician and has been intensely involved in all of the business aspects of the medical practices, as well as the aesthetics practice. The Keshwanis have owned multiple walk-in clinics and med-spas since 1983.

For more information, visit www. elitedochealthandbeauty.com or call 832-446-3206.

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Answers to the puzzle on page 47. fort bend

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By Joan Frances

Hometown Heroes:

Larry Guerra

In

Fort Bend County, people generously give their time to helping the less fortunate. One such resident is military veteran Larry Guerra, who has devoted his time to the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post #4010 in Stafford.

The charter for the post was granted by the state of Texas on October 2, 1966 and was named after Frank Cangelosi, the first soldier from Stafford who died fighting in World War II. Eligibility for membership is open to all veterans who served honorably in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force or Coast Guard and served in any foreign war, insurrection or expedition.

At 72 years young, Guerra has lived a very busy life. He joined the Marines at age 21 and spent 13 months in Vietnam. After Larry Guerra. sustaining a serious injury and recovering, Guerra was awarded the Purple Heart. He traveled back to Texas and married his wife, Angie. They have two daughters and four grandchildren. Guerra and his family eventually moved to Stafford to work for Texas Instruments as an engineering technician.

“After I retired, I had a buddy who volunteered and worked with the VFW Post,” said Guerra. “He would talk about how fulfilling it was and encouraged me to help too.

When he died suddenly, I decided I wanted to take his place.” Guerra has ardently filled his friend’s place for the past five years.

Every second Thursday of the month, Guerra travels with a group of men, ladies and students to the Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Houston to bring food to the patients. “We buy Church’s Chicken and give it out until all of the food is gone. Everyone loves that chicken. It is a good change from the hospital food.

“I see all ages, young and old, all nationalities and all kinds of injuries. Several of the vets are sick, and they get free hospital care there. Some of the men and women are there from the war with injuries from guns and bombings. We give them all special attention and make sure each veteran knows we appreciate all they have done for America, and they are grateful that we support them.”

Guerra and his group distribute food to 30 to 40 patients and visit with each one. ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corps) high school students and an officer from different schools in Fort Bend Independent School District rotate all year long. Guerra said, “The kids learn so much by helping out. They see firsthand the damages war can do, but they also see how proud the injured are to be American citizens.

The kids will do anything to help the veterans feel appreciated.”

In addition to graciously donating his time at the hospital, Guerra helps with the fundraisers at the post. His family is involved as well. “We have a barbecue cook-off and a fish fry every year to generate money to buy the food. The community donates money and items for a big garage sale as well. When people find out it is for our veterans, they step up to help in any way they can. It is so fulfilling and enjoyable to help my fellow veterans.” Guerra is a member of the American Legion in Sugar Land and the Disabled American Veterans in Rosenberg. The community thanks Guerra for all he does – past, present and future.

“It is so fulfilling and enjoyable to help my fellow veterans.” – Larry Guerra

Ray Aguilar, Larry Guerra, Patti Parish-Kaminski and Jeff Sebastian.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • January 2017

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NEWSWORTHY

Texas Bar Foundation Awards Grant to Child Advocates of Fort Bend The Texas Bar Foundation recently awarded Child Advocates of Fort Bend (CAFB) a $5,000 grant. These funds will be used to support the Multidisciplinary Team Enhancement Program (MEP).

MEP began in late 2015 as a way of identifying children who are victims of abuse and would otherwise fall through the cracks of the child welfare system.

CAFB is the only agency in Fort Bend County exclusively dedicated to providing critical services, all free of charge, to abused and neglected children and their non-offending family members. A CAFB Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) staff member reviews all state intake reports of child abuse, assesses whether they meet criteria for sexual abuse or severe physical abuse and, if so, refers the case to CPS and law enforcement. The CAC acts as a coordinating entity amongst CAFB partner agencies ensuring that all parties are informed, and abused children are receiving the help that they need to overcome the trauma they have endured.

For 25 years, CAFB has been providing a voice, healing the hurt and breaking the cycle of abuse and neglect in Fort Bend County. Through its Court Appointed Special Advocates Program (CASATM), CAC and more than 200 trained community volunteer advocates, CAFB improves the lives of more than 400 children each month and has served more than 14,000 children since opening its doors in 1991.

For more information on CAFB or to become a volunteer, visit www.cafb.org or call 281-344-5258.

Salman Aly, MD PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN • Board Certified in Internal Medicine • Experienced in Geriatric and Hospital Medicine • Botox, Dermal Fillers, Low T Syndrome • Hyperbaric & Advanced Wound Care For appointments call:

Sarfraz Aly, MD INFECTIOUS DISEASE SPECIALIST • Board Certified in Infectious Diseases and Internal Medicine • Hyperbaric & Advanced Wound Care • Travel Medicine For appointments call:

832-886-4994

832-886-4774

Now Accepting New Patients At Both Locations In Sugar Land And Wharton Sugar Land: 1201 Creekway Dr. • Suite B Sugar Land, Texas 77478 Wharton: 979-282-6151 • 10141 US 59 • Wharton, Texas, 77488

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absolutely!

AUTO REVIEW

By Steve Kursar

2017 TOYOTA PRIUS T he 2017 Toyota Prius gets 54 miles per gallon. That’s not a typo. The new Prius really does get extraordinary gas mileage. This all new, fourth generation hybrid continues to push the fuel efficiency envelope by giving its owners the ability to drive and drive before having to pull into a gas station and fill up. And with improved batteries that take up less room, the new Prius is now just as roomy as other non-hybrid compacts.

The very first Prius hit American highways back in 2000. It was awfully cramped inside, but it did get fuel economy numbers over 40 miles per gallon, which was phenomenal at the time. It didn’t gain much of a following, but the second generation Prius, which came out in 2003, found a huge popular following when gas prices soared to over four dollars a gallon.

All of a sudden, large SUVs were out, and everyone wanted a Prius. But Prius sales dropped once gas prices did the same.

This latest generation 2017 Prius was designed from the ground up to achieve startling fuel economy, and every aspect of the car was engineered around saving weight and improving aerodynamics. With a base MSRP of $24,685, all models of the Prius are powered by a 1.8 liter, four-cylinder gasoline engine and two motor/generators that are mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

The new Prius optimizes weight and space by replacing the old, bulky, nickel-metal hybrid battery with the lighter and more compact, lithium-ion hybrid battery. This allows the battery to be stored under the rear seat, thereby freeing up more room in the rear cargo area. When driving, the transition from gas to battery mode is now seamless, which is another huge improvement in the new Prius.

There are two driving modes, Normal and Power. The latter is for those times when saving fuel is not a priority. But the Prius is always ready to help achieve optimal fuel economy by gently coaching the driver through instrument displays that, if chosen, show just how efficiently you are driving. With an 11.3 gallon gas tank, the Prius may only need to visit a gas station every couple of weeks.

If you think a 2017 Toyota Prius might be in your future, now is the time to shop for one. Remember, when gas prices are low, it’s a good time to get a great deal on a Prius.

Follow Steve Kursar at KursarOnCars.blogspot.com. .com • January 2017

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MEDICAL FOCUS

AccessHealth Appoints Chief Development Officer Janice Koshy, MD After serving as director of marketing and development and development officer for AccessHealth, Cindy Reaves has been promoted to chief development officer of the non-profit health center. A native of Fort Bend County, Reaves has 20 years of experience in the non-profit sector, the last 14 years working in the health care field in Fort Bend County.

AccessHealth Chief Executive Officer Carol Edwards said, “Cindy has been instrumental in developing our fundraising events as well as bringing in new foundation supCindy Reaves. port and community support of our organization. I know she will continue building awareness of our programs and services to help increase access to quality, affordable health care for all.”

Reaves was at OakBend Medical Center for nine years prior to joining AccessHealth, spending time as both development representative and then marketing manager. She also served as vice president of membership services for the Rosenberg Richmond Area Chamber of Commerce, handling membership sales, community events and advertising. Reaves is currently involved in the community as a member of the Rotary Club of Richmond, the Central Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce and the Fort Bend Junior Service League.

For more information about AccessHealth, e-mail Sharonda DeBose at sdebose@myaccesshealth.org or call at 281-633-3144.

Farheen Tariq, MD

Infectious Disease Specialists Board Certified in Infectious Disease and Internal Medicine Management of Hepatitis B and C Travel Medicine Outpatient Infusion Therapy - OIT

For Appointments Call:

832-886-4994 NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS IN SUGAR LAND 1201 Creekway Drive, Suite B • Sugar Land, Texas 77478

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NEWSWORTHY

Seen on the Scene Jingle Tree Benefiting the Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land

KCAM Receives Annual End of Year Donation from Fort Bend County Commissioner Andy Meyers

Photo by Debi Beauregard.

November 15 and 17, 2016 The Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land

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Andy Meyers, Ana Villaronga-Roman and Alfredo Gisholt in front of Meyers’ Untitled painting on paper.

Fort Bend Commissioner Precinct 3 Andy Meyers attended the Opening Reception of For the Love of Paper, the KCAM Contemporary Art Museum Fort Bend’s first international art exhibition showcasing the large works on paper by Mexican artist Alfredo Gisholt. On this occasion, Meyers presented Museum Director Ana Villaronga-Roman with a $2,500 donation from Fort Bend Charities, a charity he founded to help non-profits in his precinct.

“Commissioner Meyers understands the importance of supporting the arts and Fort Bend County’s only art museum. He realizes the benefits the arts bring to the economic development of our area, the future of our community, as well as the significance the arts have on our children’s education,” said Villaronga-Roman. Meyers founded the Literary Fine Arts Show and Parade almost at the same time as Villaronga-Roman founded KCAM. “Not every child will grow up to be an athlete. Some are born with innate artistic talents that must be fostered and strengthened,” said Meyers. “Our community should recognize that and help support it. I urge others, residents and businesses as a whole, to consider giving to our many art organizations during this time. KCAM is there for us to enjoy, visit and learn. We owe them our thanks and support.”

An exquisite curvature of works on paper created by Gisholt at KCAM’s request, For the Love of Paper runs through Sunday, January 15th at KCAM, located at 805 Avenue B in Katy. “Empowering expression on paper is what Alfredo’s work is. The abstraction that occurs takes paper beyond its limits,” said Mariana Valdes Debes, an art psychologist and curator active in Mexico City and Houston who is in charge of traveling the exhibition later in 2017.

For more information, visit kcamfortbend.com.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

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Jared Middendorf & Brooke Todor Tom & Jackie Wilcox Adrienne Barker Anne Bulan & Irene Wisner Leanne & Tim Stubenrauch Gay Thompson & Susie Goff Seeju Dupre with “Elvis” David Parker & Jim Kij Sunny & Rashmi Sharma

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NEWSWORTHY

Sugar Land Girl Scout Earns National Service Award 10

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Judy Maddison Marilyn Jones & Nancy Olson Tracy & Josh Pipe Laura Thompson, Kavita Self & Wanda Sdao Caron Marble, Cee Cee Parker & Jessica Kij Terri Wang & Syndee Howgate Kelli Metzenthin & Sandra Billingsley Nili Patel, Michelle Donnelly & Krista Sayre Pat & Allen Houck Tracey Shaw Judy & Mark Kisner

Katie Hyde, a senior at Logos Preparatory Academy in Sugar Land, earned the Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest honor in Girl Scouting. The award recognizes girls in grades nine through 12 who demonstrate extraordinary leadership through sustainable and measurable community service projects that require a minimum of 80 hours to complete. Less than five percent of Girl Scouts earn the award.

To earn the award, Hyde built eight sets of horse jumps for the therapeutic riding program at Southern Breeze Equestrian Center. As part of her project, she met with the equestrian center manager, designed the horse jumps, shopped for wood and supplies and solicited donations from two local area hardware stores.

Hyde’s team consisted of more than 17 people, including 10 employees from Lowe’s who helped construct the horse jumps during a summer workday.

Hyde is an active member of Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council’s (GSSJC) horse program and is also a member of the council’s parade team where she represents Girl Scouts while on horseback.

“I love spending time with and riding my horse, so I wanted others to have that same opportunity, despite any physical or mental challenges they might have,” said Hyde. “Earning my Gold Award taught me about leadership and serving my community, especially since this was the 100 year anniversary of the Gold Award.”

After graduating this spring, Hyde will attend Texas A&M University to major in animal science and minor in wildlife and fisheries management.

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BUSINESS BRIEFS

Seen on the Scene Best in the West Benefiting The Arc of Fort Bend County November 19, 2016 • George Ranch Arena

Johnson Development Lands Six Projects on Most Active List

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Houston-based Johnson Development Corp. is the area’s busiest, with more projects on a recently released list of most active communities than any other developer. Johnson Development had six communities on the list released by the Houston Business Journal, including the No. 1 development, Riverstone. Other Johnson communities listed are Sienna Plantation, No. 2; Woodforest, No. 4; Cross Creek Ranch, No. 6; Harvest Green, No. 8 and Harmony, No. 11. Projects were ranked according to their annual new home starts for the 12 month period ending in September 2016.

“Builders have confidence in Johnson Development, as evidenced by the more than 2,100 homes they started in the six communities on the most active list,” said Doug Goff, chief operating officer for the company. “We have a long history of creating desirable communities that offer a prime location, top schools and impressive amenities that combine for a vibrant development where people want to live.”

Projects of Johnson Development are often ranked among the nation’s top-selling. Most recently, four developments were listed among the best-selling communities in the United States, according to a mid-year report released last summer by Robert Charles Lesser & Co. (RCLCO). Johnson Development was the only developer to have that many communities ranked among the 30 top-selling developments.

Johnson Development has 14 communities under active development in Houston. The company is also developing Viridian and Trinity Falls in Dallas-Fort Worth and Lake Arrowhead in Atlanta. Learn more at www. johnsondevelopment.com.

Photos by Mary Favre and Liz Furman.

Johnson Development has six projects ranked on a list published by the Houston Business Journal on the area’s most active communities, including No. 1 Riverstone.

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TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

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MEDICAL FOCUS

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital Receives Texas Ten Step Redesignation

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11 Members of the perinatal staff at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital Megan Oggero, RN, Margaret Cotlar, RN, Melissa Brunke, RN, Jennifer Bernhardt, RN, Julie Fonseca, RN, Ann Kingrey, RN, and Susan Isaac, RN.

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Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital was again designated as a Texas Ten Step facility by the Texas Department of State Health Services. The program encourages breastfeeding as the preferred feeding method for newborns and infants. Memorial Hermann Sugar Land has been designated a Texas Ten Step facility since 2011.

Based on the World Health Organization (WHO)/UNICEF’s Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding, the program aims to assist birth facility’s support of breastfeeding mothers before, during and after delivery, encourages them to identify breastfeeding resources for the mother after she is discharged and assists facilities in improving on national performance measures such as the Centers for Disease Control’s (CDC) Breastfeeding Report Card.

“There are many long-term benefits of breastfeeding to both baby and mother,” said Ann Kingery, RN, IBCLC certified lactation consultant at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land.

“This redesignation acknowledges our commitment to support breastfeeding and give our new moms and their babies the best possible start.”

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land joins a growing number of Texas birth facilities that are supporting new mothers and their decision to breastfeed. The goal of the Texas Ten Step Program is to increase breastfeeding initiation rates to 82 percent. Texas Ten Step facilities are asked to address 85 percent of the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding, be designated as a Texas Mother-Friendly Worksite, evaluate their breastfeeding policies, maternity care practices and educate all health care staff routinely with evidence-based courses.

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land is also a recipient of a 2016 Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, the nation’s highest Presidential honor for performance excellence. Memorial Hermann Sugar Land is located at 17500 West Grand Parkway South in Sugar Land.

For more information, call 281-725-5000.

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MEDICAL FOCUS

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital received its sixth consecutive “A” for patient safety in the Fall 2016 Hospital Safety Score ratings program. The Hospital Safety Score is an elite designation from The Leapfrog Group that sets the highest standards for patient safety in the United States.

Developed under the guidance of Leapfrog’s Blue Ribbon Expert Panel, the Hospital Safety Score uses performance measures from a broad range of government and industry organizations, including the American Hospital Association, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, among others.

More than 2,600 U.S. hospitals are rated twice each year on 30 measures of publicly available safety data. Surveyed hospitals receive a letter grade based on how well they protect patients from errors, injuries, accidents and infections while in the hospital. Grades are calculated by top patient safety experts, peerreviewed, fully transparent and free to the public.

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital was one of 844 hospitals nationwide — less than one-third of those sur-

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Earns Sixth Consecutive “A” Grade for Patient Safety

Anna Floyd; Maria Socci, RN; Monica Salinas, RN; Jackie Trotter, RN; Ann Prather, RN; Chris Siebenaler, CEO; Damon Smith, RN; Pauletta Blackstock, RN; Diane McGraw, RN, Quality Director; Tanuja Parmar, RN; and Brooke Taylor, RN.

veyed — to earn an “A” grade in the Fall 2016 survey results.

“Protecting patients from harm is the most important charge for any hospital,” said Leah Binder, president and chief executive officer (CEO) of The Leapfrog Group. “We recognize and appreciate ‘A’ hospitals’ vigilance and continued dedication to keeping their patients safe.”

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s ongoing patient safety efforts include the development of detailed protocols and best practices focusing on a wide range of safety risks, along with in-depth training, ongoing communication and regularly scheduled audits, to ensure that staff members are aware

of — and are following — proper safety processes.

“Patient safety is central to our mission, and we are proud of our results,” said Chris Siebenaler, CEO at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “Our success depends on the daily actions of our physicians, nurses, technicians and other staff members, and our ‘A’ grade from the Hospital Safety Score survey shows that we are making a significant difference in keeping our patients safe while under our care.”

For more information about Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, visit houstonmethodist.org/sugarland or call 281-274-7500 for a physical referral.

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and request a FREE Subscription.

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Joyous, Extraordinary Women Enriching Lives

MEDICAL FOCUS

OakBend Named Finalist for Hospital Charitable Service Awards

OakBend Medical Center’s Titiksha Vats, Ben Steiner, Jeana Manrique and Katie Degen.

OakBend Medical Center has been named one of 26 finalists across the country for the Hospital Charitable Service Awards.

OakBend, the only Texas hospital to be named a finalist, was nominated for the hospital’s Delivery System Reform Incentive Payment (DSRIP) program.

In 2012, OakBend Medical Center began participating in the DSRIP program. Within the program, OakBend has nine projects: Chronic Disease Registry, Increase Access to Primary Care Providers (PCPs), Expand Specialty Care Access, Patient Experience, Patient Navigation, Breast-Feeding, Wellness, Medication Management and Behavioral Health Patient Navigation. � Chronic Disease Registry: The purpose of this project is to identify and target the at-risk chronic disease population and to move towards decreasing their inappropriate utilization patterns. Once identified, they are educated and encouraged to self-manage their health care, thus improving their quality of life as well as their inappropriate utilization of healthcare services.

Increase Access to PCPs: Currently, OakBend provides high-quality, affordable care to residents of Fort Bend County regardless of their ability to pay. However, access to primary care appointments is limited. As a result, many patients are cared for exclusively in the emergency department. This setting is not designed to provide comprehensive assessment, disease-specific education, preventative care and coordination.

Expand Specialty Care Access: The increase in access to specialty physician services across a wide range of clinical specialties will result in a decrease in preventable readmissions, because effective disease management and access to care reduce the incidence of acute conditions. The purpose of this project is to increase availability of specialty care physicians to improve quality of life, as well as decrease inappropriate utilization of health care services.

Patient Experience: OakBend is establishing a patient exTO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

perience program where patients feel safe, have their voices heard and are empowered. This concept will involve staff education on communication skills and will be in line with the other initiatives that are designed to create an environment that promotes excellence, operational efficiency and quality patientcentered care.

Patient Navigation: Traditionally, a hospital’s care of patients ends the instant the patient is discharged. This project will offer targeted patient populations assistance in coordinating their care. In addition to helping individual patients, this project will allow all providers across the spectrum of care to utilize their resources more efficiently, delivering care to patients in the most appropriate setting.

Breast-Feeding: OakBend will educate and train patients and staff on the health benefits of breastfeeding, as well as evidence-based strategies to enhance breastfeeding. The training will incorporate the development of educational materials in both Spanish and English.

Wellness: This project involves hiring and training of wellness staff, care coordination, development of educational materials, outreach to community of services offered in bilingual availability, access to or expanded transportation services as well as coordination for transportation, reminder calls to recipients regarding appointment times, eventually a help line for access of services offered, and printed educational materials in multiple languages. This project also has a focus on lowering inappropriate emergency department utilization.

Medication Management: OakBend implemented a formal Medication Management Program that serves patients from admission to discharge and expands the use of electronic medication reconciliation and computer physician order entry.

OakBend is continuing to expand utilization of electronic medication reconciliation among providers, 100 percent of front line staff members now utilize electronic medication administration and other medication related documentation. OakBend also continues to expand the education provide on medications to the patient upon admission and across the continuum of care.

Behavioral Health Patient Navigation: OakBend’s Behavioral Health Patient Navigation program was established to provide care management and navigation services for at-risk patients in need of crisis stabilization services, behavioral health services and substance abuse services. OakBend’s behavioral health navigator continues to identify behavioral health and substance abuse patients in the inpatient and emergency setting. The navigator links the patient to resources to treat and manage their condition or behavioral health crisis.

“We are excited to have been named a finalist for this award,” said Joe Freudenberger, chief executive officer of OakBend Medical Center. “Our DSRIP program is an ongoing work in progress and continues to look for ways to expand our services to the community. This nomination affirms we are heading in the right direction.”

For more information, visit www.oakbendmedcenter.org. .com • January 2017

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January 2017 Winner “Lost Lake, Whistler, Canada”

By Jomy Joseph Congratulations Jomy, you’ve earned a $50 gift certificate to a restaurant!

ENTER TO WIN Fort Bend Focus Magazine is looking for great amateur photos.

Any subject matter will be considered, black and white or color, special effects and/or edited are not necessary. The entry must not have previously appeared in any publication.

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, e-mail Alexa at alexa@absolutelyfocusmedia. com or call 281-690-4242.

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 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 Grace@ absolutelyfocusmedia.com. Digital photos must be 300 dpi HIGH RESOLUTION at size of at least 10” wide.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

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Shines

Giving

Coming October 2017

OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART

OF THE BEND

Flower power! Alexandra Zody, Nancy Olson, Patti Parish-Kaminski, Tricia Zody, Robyn Boyle and Karen Harris stepped up to the flower bar at Deep Roots TX Floral Studio in Sugar Land for a lesson in floral design. Deep Roots is a full service floral studio owned by the Zody’s that offers design classes, so bring some snacks and a bottle of wine or two and enjoy – all while creating your beautiful custom floral arrangement!

Child Advocates of Fort Bend hosted its 25th Christmas Home Tour Sponsor Party in the home of Paul and Manmeet Likhari.

Paul and Manmeet Likhari.

Bridget Yeung and Ruthanne Mefford.

Jim McClellan and Marhia Coane.

Albert and June Steele.

Jim and Tracey Shaw.

Pat and Brad Somers.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

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The Literacy Council of Fort Bend County’s 7th Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee raised more than $40,000 to support the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County’s six programs. City of Sugar Land Mayor Joe R. Zimmerman welcomed the audience of over 250 to the Insperity Club at Constellation Field. Nineteen teams competed to win a spot in the coveted Honey Hall of Fame and bobble head bee trophy.

Shayne Newell, Melody Pakeltis and Keyshala Petitt.

Lawren Eckhardt.

Vincent Morales Jr., Allissa Battocletti and Holly Kaminga.

Steve Waters, Olivia Ross and Burke Watson.

Darla Fanta, Margie Connolly and Rebecca Deurlein.

Grayle James, Beth Martinez and Diana Sayavedra.

Fort Bend residents supported an event benefiting educating children and women at the Pratham Luncheon and Tootsie’s Fashion Show held at The Junior League of Houston.

Ash and Leena Shah.

Asha and Pankaj Dhume.

Zeenat Mitha and Marie Goradia.

Soha Haque and Manisha Ghandi.

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OUT &

Sandersen & Sheffer, PLLC spread holiday cheer with live entertainment and giveaways at their Holiday Open House. Guests contributed items to benefit Lunches of Love.

ABOUT IN THE HEART

OF THE BEND Ariana Cruz and Sara Hickey.

Chris Hall and Sherri Scheffer.

Alan and Jonika Sandersen.

Maggy Horgan and Alexa Goldstein.

The Honorable Ron Pope, The Honorable Brenda Mullinix and The Honorable Judge David Perwin finalized 15 adoptions including the adoptions of three children from the foster care system in celebration of National Adoption Day on November 18th. Fort Bend County’s 328th, 387th and 505th District Courts joined courts across the country in opening their doors to complete adoptions and celebrate all families who adopt.

Cousins Kingston Reusch and Marvin Rojales Jr. with Caleb and Mykah Taylor had fun at the photo booth while visiting the Fort Bend Discovery Center.

Ella Hope Jones and 14 other children and their families celebrated National Adoption Day.

Betsy Rohleder, Daphne McCadney, Belinda Joseph, Sandra Lewis and Henry and Riley Joseph.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

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More than 3,000 people turned out for the first-ever Harvest Fest, which featured a host of fall activities, including pumpkin carving, a pie-eating contest, bobbing for apples and a farmers market, held in the master-planned Harvest Green.

Remington and Anthony Reilly decorated their perfect pumpkins.

Oscar Cervantes celebrated after winning the pie-eating contest.

Morgan Pinkleton and Daniel Yiu visited one of several food trucks.

Jaxson and Cody Graham pretended to drive a tractor.

Loggins Jewelers’ Annual Toys for Tots Holiday Party featured music, hors d’oeurves and a special discount on merchandise for guests who brought an unopened toy benefiting Toys for Tots.

Stephanie Saa and April Kincade.

Antione Parker.

Elizabeth Kerr, Aidan Blancas and Bay Berger.

Jack Molho, Jennifer Blancas and Susan Sanders.

Jessica Kij and Donna Molho.

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OUT &

Toys for Tots, The Exchange Clubs of Sugar Land and Fort Bend, Sugar Land Rotary and Second Mile Mission partnered in a joint community service project to provide thousands of toys for Fort Bend County children during the holiday season.

IN THE HEART

OF THE BEND

Photo by Sue Lockwood.

ABOUT

Rick Smith, Carlos Perez, Carolyn Tarver and Jonathan McCoy.

Child Advocates of Fort Bend recognized Shirley Brown and Mary Allen, who have served as Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers to seven children who had been in the foster care system for 11 years, the second longest case in Child Advocates of Fort Bend’s 25 year history of serving children.

Shirley Brown, Allison Edwards and Mary Allen.

Sugar Land Face and Body Plastic Surgery hosted its Annual Forever Glam Wonderland Holiday Soiree featuring treatment and procedure giveaways, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.

Lauren Burleson with Monica and Rick Beaver.

Eric, Lin, Talan and Kaalan Humble.

Alexandria Diskin and Janna Carandang.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • January 2017

Sylvia Carpenter, Nancy Sadowski and Susan Chaluh.

Taylor Feldman, May Akbari, Monica Hand and Kaylyn Moehring.

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The Indo American Forum of Fort Bend celebrated the spirit of the holidays with its Boots, Bangles & Bindis Gala at Safari Texas Ranch. The year’s theme signified the persevering spirit and diversity of India.

Shefali Jhaveri, Hansa Patel and Sashi Jajoo.

William and Teresa Cox Reading.

Kolbe and Gwen Curtice.

Rita and Lavin Mediwala.

Kelli Metzenthin and Irene Wisner.

Nilesh and Jasmin Patel.

Mary Favre, Brenna Cosby, Cheryl White and Jessica Kij.

Gordon Burkstresser and Amy Mitchell.

Sonal and Subodh Bhuchar.

Preet and Harry Munday.

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Geetha and Ravi Radhakrishnan.

Malisha and Bhavesh Patel.

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OUT & ABOUT

Friends of Fort Bend Cares hosted its annual fun and delicious Cookie Exchange at the home of Jill Curtis. Guests brought a favorite cookie in multiples of one dozen and took home an equal number of cookies to take home.

IN THE HEART

OF THE BEND Linda Delgado and Nancy Pritchard.

Lois Keonig and Gail Pawlowski.

Jeanne Lonati, Karen Nemessi and Lynn Wisler.

Patty Ward and Jill Curtis.

Fort Bend residents supported the Helping A Hero.org National Gala at the Hilton Americas saluting wounded heroes and celebrating 10 years of providing specially adapted homes, emergency needs support, recreation activities and conducting marriage and caregiver retreats.

Sunny Sharma and Lee Greenwood.

Rashmi and Rajan Sharma.

Zeenat Mitha and Rhonda Walls Kirby.

Zakia and Suleman Lalani.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

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Join Our Exceptional Team!

absolutely! focus media Now accepting resumés for

Account Executives

For a detailed job description, and to submit your resumé, visit www.absolutelyfocusmedia.com.

EVENTS January 7th, 10:30 – 11:30 am Morning Dance Party

January 12th, 6:30 – 8 pm Hope For Three Volunteer Mixer

Kick off a Saturday morning with a dance party! Shimmy your little ones ages five and under to the Sienna Branch Library, located at 8411 Sienna Springs Way in Missouri City.

Call 281-238-2900.

Hope For Three will host a volunteer mixer at Off the Vine Bistro, located at 2865 Dulles Avenue in Missouri City. Organizers invite the community to join them for an evening of fellowship and fun.

Light refreshments will be provided.

Call 281-245-0640 or visit www.hopeforthree.org.

January 7th, 2 pm Children’s Special Program: Karate Demonstration

Children grades one through five are welcome to join this karate demonstration self defense class put on by Safety America. The class will be held at the Sugar Land Library, located at 550 Eldridge Road.

Call 281-238-2140.

January 21st, 2 – 4 pm Coupon Kristen’s Coupon Class Come learn how to save money from the master herself! Kristin Holt from the show Extreme Couponing has more than eight years’ experience teaching others how to save money.

This class for adults will be taught at the Missouri City Branch Library, located at 1530 Texas Parkway in Missouri City.

Visit www.fortbend.lib.tx.us or call 281-238-2100.

January 10th, 7 pm Music and History of the West African Kora Fort Bend County Libraries will host a performance and talk at the Sienna Branch Library, located at 8411 Sienna Springs Boulevard in Missouri City. Sean Gaskell will give an educational demonstration of the kora, an ancient 21-stringed harp from West Africa. His performance will feature traditional songs, as well as some of his own personal compositions.

Call 281-238-2900.

January 21st 2017 Founder’s Ball January 18th, 7 pm Culinary Club: Salad Wars

This year’s Founder’s Ball theme, In High Gear, is guaranteed to be an evening of supersonic fun! The event takes place at Safari Texas Ranch, located at 11627 FM 1464. Proceeds will benefit the mission and goals of the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation.

For tickets, call 281-313-0752 or contact info@slcaf.org.

Do you love to cook or have always wanted to try? Join the Culinary Club at the University Branch Library, located at 14010 University Boulevard in Sugar Land!

This is an adult class only.

Call 281-633-5160.

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

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

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EVENTS January 26th, 11:30 am Senior Foodies Enjoy an afternoon of good food and great company at the Cheesecake Factory, located at 16535 Southwest Freeway in Sugar Land.

Senior Foodies is for ages 50 and over.

To RSVP, call the Missouri City Rec and Tennis Center at 281-403-8637.

January 2017 Entertainment Lineup

January 28th, 2 – 3 pm Library Zoofari

www.smartfinancialcentre.net

Bring the whole family out to the Wild Things Zoofair at the Missouri City Branch Library, located at 1530 Texas Parkway in Missouri City. Learn about exotic animals and enjoy a complete petting zoo.

Call 281-238-2100.

Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land debuts with a dynamic entertainment roster featuring high profile performers throughout the month of January.

Located at 18111 Lexington Boulevard in Sugar Land, the indoor performance venue opens to the public on Saturday, January 14th.

January 26th, 2 – 3 pm Computer Class Word Basics

Jerry Seinfeld

Computer applications can be stressful, but not to worry – the University Branch Library is here to help! This class is located at 14010 University Boulevard in Sugar Land.

Call 281-633-5163.

Saturday, January 14th 7 and 10 pm

Don Henley

Sunday, January 15th 7:30 pm

January 28th, 10:30 am – Noon Learn Line-Dancing Basics Get on your dancing shoes and come out to this groovy class! Retired librarian Virginia Harrell will teach basic steps to popular line dance songs at the Sugar Land Branch Library, located at 550 Eldridge in Sugar Land.

Call 281-238-2140.

Dirty Dancing – The Classic Story on Stage Friday, January 20th 8 pm

January 29th, 6:30 am 9th Annual Memorial Hermann USA Fit Marathon

Saturday, January 21st 2 and 8 pm

The 9th Annual Memorial Hermann USA Fit Marathon, Fort Bend Kia Half Marathon and C & C Dental 5K starts and finishes at the University of Houston Sugar Land campus, located at 14000 University Boulevard.

To register, visit www.usafitmarathon.com.

Sunday, January 22nd 2 and 7:30 pm

Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds Wednesday, January 25th 8 pm

Reba McEntire

SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS E-mail events@absolutelyfocusmedia.com.

Include the event date, time, location and a short description of the event.

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Friday, January 27th 8 pm

Kristin Chenoweth

Saturday, January 28th 8 pm

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

Living the Sweet Life:

Hello Again January!

W

ell my darlings, it’s finally here: another New Year! I don’t think I could be happier than I am right now. Last year was filled with so many things – very few good and lots of very very bad – thus leaving me anticipating 2017 for quite some time. Why is it that January always puts us into that frame of mind?

There’s the changing of the actual year, which encourages change. With anything new, especially a whole year before us, we always seem to want to challenge ourselves, which then leads us to those pesky resolutions we try to bother with. I though have decided that January marks a new beginning. I will not be making lots of crazy goals that I will then have to lament come mid-year having not accomplished them. Nope, not this ole’ Auntie A. This year, I am going to breathe!

I am going to spend less time doing and lots of time thinking. I am going to enjoy each day as if it were my very last.

I am not going to do one thing about my weight or pressure myself to exercise. And if that far-off notion were to strike, then I guess I reckon I might have to stretch!

I am going to write and take note of all around me. I am going to make the decision to be unavailable for 30 whole days in a row. God only knows what mischief I will get into!

I am going to access every room in my house and remove everything that no longer suits me. As my “stuff” piles high, I will scoot it closer to the door, and then I will kick it out! I promise.

After all, I will be turning 47 next month, and my first book is coming out too. It’s time to be in my moments and enjoying each one of them.

The children are growing, and soon they will be gone!

So January, I think I may have accidentally done what I hoped I wouldn’t do to you! Yes, I just made some crazy goals, and yes, I will be frazzled come June if they are not either finished or well on that way. It’s called living! Those who move forward have to in order to accomplish. I am truly sorry dear January.

You are definitely in the hot seat!

Hope each of y’all have a wonderful January.

Take Care of YOU!

alisa@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

“I though have decided that January marks a new beginning.

I will not be making lots of crazy goals that I will then have to lament come mid-year having not accomplished them.

Nope, not this ole’ Auntie A. This year, I am going to breathe! “ TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

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complex neurological conditions —treated in sugar land.

At the Neuroscience & Spine Center at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, our physicians collaborate across specialties to diagnose and treat common to complex neurological disorders.

With innovative and advanced treatment options, we provide the most comprehensive care close to home.

Our team of physicians treats a variety of disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease and memory disorders Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) Back and neck pain Brain and spinal tumors Epilepsy and seizures Headaches and migraines Multiple sclerosis (MS) Muscle and nerve injuries

Muscular atrophy Myasthenia gravis Neuromuscular disorders Parkinson’s disease and movement disorders Peripheral neuropathy Sleep disorders Stroke

For more information, visit houstonmethodist.org/sugarland-neuro, or to schedule an appointment, call 281.274.7979.