June 2013 - Fort Bend Focus Magazine - People • Places • Happenings

JUNE 2013

Dr. John T. Nguyen’s

SAVANNAH

BERRY

New Sugar Land Facility: Elegant, Modern, State-of-the-Art

Takes on THE VOICE

REAL

Weddings

FORT BEND $2.95

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

FATHER'S DAY

Gift Guide

Congratulations, Graduate!

You deserve a reward!

Head to your new job in a new Classic Chevy!

Go to college in style in a new car from Classic Chevy!

And HEY, Mom and Dad, wouldn’t a new Classic Chevy make a GREAT graduation gift?

WE GIVE AWAY ONE FREE CAR EVERY MONTH! REGISTER TODAY! Visit classicchevyhouston.com

13115 Southwest Freeway (at Highway 90-A) • Sugar Land 281-969-4132 • 877-284-0644 • classicchevyhouston.com HOURS: 8-8 Monday-Friday, 8-6 Saturday SERVICE HOURS: 7-6:30 Monday-Friday, 8-5 Saturday VISIT US ON FACEBOOK! www.Facebook.com/ ClassicChevySugarLand

Compounding Corner Pharmacy, Inc. ®

THE ONLY PCAB-ACCREDITED COMPOUNDING PHARMACY IN FORT BEND COUNTY

www.compoundingcornerpharmacy.com

The Gold Standard for compounded medications in

Fort Bend County

• A ccredited • E ndorsed • E xperienced SPECIALTIES

Photo by Nesossi Studios

Bio-Identical Hormones • hCG • MIC B-12 • Glutathione Tri-Mix • Hydroquinone • T3 • Veterinary • Fertility • Libido Dermatology • Pain Management • Autism

For the discerning patient:

Shannon Maguadog, Pharm. D. Compounding Specialist/Owner

• DISCOUNTS: We offer 20% off 90 units of capsules, mL’s of cream, troches, etc., 35% off of 180 units and 40% off ≥360 units.

• SAME DAY PROCESSING: Most medications are finished the same day. Anything ready after 6:00pm will be ready at 9:00am the next business morning.

• TESTING: We regularly test our products for potency, sterility and endotoxins.

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

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

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

.com • June 2013

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fort bend

magazine • June 2013

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WHAT’S YOUR WELLNESS WORTH? Would you like...

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281-313-7435 www.drshel.com SPECIALS • $10/Unit Botox • 40% OFF Cellulite Reduction • $100 OFF Radiesse & Juvederm • $150 OFF Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement & hCG Pkg.

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Dr. Shel’s mission is to help patients reclaim their lives by looking and feeling their ABSOLUTE BEST.

www.twitter.com/drshel www.facebook.com/drshel

We’re taking mammograms to a whole new dimension.

3 - D MAM MOG R AM S

Now available at St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital According to the American Cancer Society, the early detection of breast cancer saves thousands of lives each year. One of the newest tools in this effort is 3-D mammography, or tomosynthesis, which is now available at St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital.

3-D mammograms allow physicians to take images from different angles, providing sharper, better quality results and a reduction in “false positives.” The new technology is recommended for women with dense breast tissue and allows physicians to view images with pinpoint accuracy in order to detect smaller tumors earlier.

See if a mammogram is the answer for you.

Call 281-637-7001 today for an appointment.

StLukesSugarLand.com Highway 59 one block north of Highway 6 at Lake Pointe Parkway | 1317 Lake Pointe Parkway, Sugar Land, TX 77478

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F E AT U R E S 22 SAVANNAH BERRY

Fort Bend’s Shining Star Competes on The Voice

COVER STORY

24 ROAD TESTED TRAVEL APPS

Check out these mobile apps that can help make a vacation stress-free and fun.

June 2013

25 REAL WEDDINGS OF FORT BEND June is the most popular month for weddings. Get a look at these blushing brides and their gorgeous celebrations!

51 SUGAR LAND WINE & FOOD AFFAIR Photos from three of the affair’s most popular events.

76 FATHER’S DAY GIFT GUIDE

Let’s face it – shopping for Dad isn’t easy. Forget the tie and golf balls – find a fabulous gift from a local retailer in this handy gift guide.

COLUMNS 20 FOCUS ON FINANCE Eve of Destruction

70 HIGH SCHOOL HOT SHOT

Briana LaChapelle: Having a Ball!

80 LIVING THE SWEET LIFE Go ahead and RAOK them!

John T. Nguyen, MD, FACS, FICS Photo by Alisa Murray Photography

16 DR. JOHN T. NGUYEN’S NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY

Meet this month’s recipient on page 71!

Sugar Land Plastic Surgery’s new building reflects the practice’s persona developed by Dr. John T. Nguyen – clean lines, modern design, upscale amenities and impeccable attention to detail – nestled along Brooks Lake.

fort bend

magazine • June 2013

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CONTRIBUTORS

JUNE 2013

|

VOLUME 9

NEWSWORTHY 46 SUGAR LAND SKEETERS Sign Kody Clemens

48 FORT BEND CHRISTIAN’S Baseball and Softball Teams Take State

65 FORT BEND CARES

Surpasses $1 Million Given In Less Than Ten Years

FILM REVIEW 36 FAST AND FURIOUS 6

NEW TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD 50 DEFINE BODY & MIND

H O M E T H E AT R E 54 IDENTITY THIEF SAVING HOPE: Season One LAVERNE & SHIRLEY: Season Six

|

Linda K. Eaves Writer Page 16

NUMBER 8

16

absolutely!

AUTO REVIEW 20

64 2013 LEXUS LS460

MEDICAL & BUSINESS

Nick Nicholson Entertainment Editor Pages 22, 36, 54 & 57

66 MEDICAL FOCUS

Medical news you can use from Fort Bend’s finest in medicine

Will Hardee Hardee Investment Group Page 20

22

IN EVERY ISSUE

Melissa Horn Beginner Geek Page 24

10 EDITOR’S POINT OF VIEW

24

40 SEEN ON THE SCENE Photos from Fort Bend County charitable events

60 OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART OF THE BEND A few snapshots of people, places and happenings

Amy Gross VineSleuthUncorked.com Page 58

58 Steve Kursar Auto Enthusiast Page 64

72 AMATEUR PHOTO CONTEST A winning shot by a local photographer

64

74 COMMUNITY CALENDAR Fun events the whole family will enjoy

Lauren Benoit Writer Page 70

57 BATTLE EARTH

70

absolutely!

DELICIOUS

Alisa Murray Alisa Murray Photography Page 80

58 VINE SLEUTH

White Wine Myths

80

59 absolutely! DELICIOUS LISTING

ON THE COVER:

John T. Nguyen, MD, FACS, FICS Photo by Alisa Murray Photography

fort bend

magazine • June 2013

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

6

2 7 3

A $25.00 flat fee for an x-ray & consultation A $74.00 value Low cost way to find out what’s wrong

8

(Does not include cleaning)

4 9 5 10

Tim Cashion, DDS

Teresa Cody, DDS

mydentist@windstream.net

Formerly Cashion & Cody Family Dentistry and Orthodontics

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

www.candcdental.com www.candcortho.com

Call us now!

281-206-4482

EXCLAMATION POINTS! THE INSIDE SCOOP STRAIGHT FROM THE TOP

Vol. 9 No. 8 June 2013

Editor-in-Chief: PATTI PARISH-KAMINSKI

4655 TECHNIPLEX DR. STE 400 STAFFORD , TX 77477 281-690-4242

Hello Fort Bend Friends,

WWW.FORTBENDFOCUS.C0M

“Summertime and the living is easy” – or at least life slows down just a bit! Gerschwin’s words ring as true today as they did in 1935 as we still look forward to the arrival of summer. With our longer, warmer days and less hustle and bustle, now is the perfect time to get out and about in the Bend and enjoy what our community has to Lisa Fredrickson and Patti Parish-Kaminski offer. Take a look at our Community Events on page 74. Whether it’s outdoor concerts in Sugar Land Town Square, shopping Saturday mornings at the Farmer’s Market at Imperial or learning origami, you’ll find something fun to fill your summer days.

Summer is also the perfect time to focus on you. Dr. John Nguyen has built an incredible contemporary, state-of-the-art facility to help you do just that. From cosmetic surgery to skin care, Dr. Nguyen and his staff at Sugar Land Plastic Surgery can help make you – and your summer – beautiful. Read all about his practice philosophy and his new facility on page 16.

Are you loving The Voice this season? NBC’s reality talent show is a big hit in our home, and we love Missouri City’s Savannah Berry. Read all about Savannah’s journey on the hit television show, and learn what’s next in store for this talented young lady.

June is traditionally the month of when we think about weddings, and in Real Weddings, we feature six gorgeous weddings with ties to Fort Bend. From destination weddings to hometown celebrations, see all of the details that made these events extra special.

Last but not least, Happy Father’s Day to all of our dads. And, if you’re looking for a gift to make Dad’s day extra special, check out our Father’s Day Gift Guide starting on page 76.

Hope to see you out and about in the Bend this summer!

Absolutely! yours,

Editor@fortbendfocus.com

Facebook.com/FortBendFocus

EXECUTIVE PUBLISHERS Michael & Lisa Fredrickson E D I T O R- I N - C H I E F Patti Parish-Kaminski SENIOR AC C OUNT EXECUTIVE Jessica Kij AC C O U N T E X E C U T I V E S Susan Dannhaus Kay Garrett Andrea Rigamonti Brittany Smith A RT D I R E C T O R Grace Belleza GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Ginger Garza Christopher Hernandez C O M M U N I C AT I O N S C O O R D I NAT O R Sarah Greeson A D M I N I S T R AT I V E DIRECTOR Erin Sanders WEB DESIGNER Joey Belleza PHOTOGRAPHER Alisa Murray Photography CONTRIBUTORS Lauren Benoit Linda K. Eaves Amy Gross Will Hardee Melissa Horn Steve Kursar Alisa Murray Nick Nicholson INTERN Bunty Keo

Ticket giveaways to area attractions and events.

INQUIRIES 281-690-4242

READER FEEDBACK

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

Patti, It is far too often that readers are quick to have their opinions heard as they criticize an article that they may read.

The reader can become even more enraged when the article they are reading is based on the author’s opinion verses a researched study or cumulative synopsis. I would just like to take a minute of your time to tell you that this is not the case when I read Nick Nicholson's movie reviews. I count on his professional movie reviews to guide my choice for what we will and will not invest our time and money in. His synopses are always intriguing without giving away too many of the details of each movie he reviews. He manages to draw me in to each character, affording me a glimpse of their personalities and their surroundings. His latest reviews from the Worldfest International Film Festival has drawn me into the AMC Theater on Dunvale. It is with great fortitude that Nick manages to use his expertise in the field of entertainment to enlighten and entertain our family. Thank you for always keeping his reviews in your magazine. His movie reviews are always accurate and concise, and I look for them in every issue of your magazine. Thank you for giving us Mr. Nicholson.

- Donna Hansen, Sugar Land Resident fort bend

magazine • June 2013

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Published by

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. 400, Stafford, TX 77477. Copyright © 2013 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.

Celebrates and Honors all Fathers s l a i c Spe

coolsculpting- buy 2 areas, get one free ulthera- face and neck treatment $3000 skin care- 15% off

281•313•0555 16926 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77479 Like us on Facebook

Eric Humble, M.D.

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

BeautyBecomesYou.com MyLuxuryMedSpa.com

Residential Landscape Design & Installation • Flagstone Patios • Butterfly Gardens • Texas A & M Horticulturist

Fr e s h * L o c a l *

Fam i l y- O wn e d

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

Tod d & Sabr ina Farb er, Own ers

• Celebrating 21 years in Landscape Design and Installation • 11-year FIRST COLONY and FORT BEND COUNTY resident

garden-guy.com fort bend

281-208 - 4400 • magazine • June 2013

12

SCAN TO GO TO OUR FACEBOOk pAGE

fort bend showcase

Kathy Park Carter 832.704.0111

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Elaine Lam 832.858.1098 Circle of Excellence

Introducing you to your new home…

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Carrie Summers 281.773.4404 Circle of Excellence

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Crestbend Drive - Rivercrest

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N Horseshoe Drive - Sugar Land

5/6 – 2.9+ acre estate - Master down - Elevator Susan Boss 713.823.6992

5/4.5+ – 1+ acre on golf course - Resort-style pool Kathy Park Carter 832.704.0111

4/2.5+ – Contemporary home on Alkire Lake Kellie Geitner 713.213.2011

Grants Hollow Lane - Richmond

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3/2 – Terrific family home zoned to good schools Formals - Island kitchen - Wood floors - Area pool

6/5.5+ – Outstanding waterfront home - 2.35 acres 8,500 sq. ft. - Boat dock - Putting green - Pool/fountain

4/2.5 – Well-maintained family home in Heritage Colony Formal dining room - Large master - Deck - Cul-de-sac

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4-5/4.5+ – Incredible custom showcase home Courtyard entrance - 2 masters - Balcony - Pool/spa

3/2 – Recent construction one story home - Study Formal dining room - Private master suite - Patio

4/3.5 – Charming home in desirable Riverstone Recent construction with upgrades - Game room

WWW.MARTHATURNER.COM | 832.500.8300

fort bend

magazine • June 2013

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All of our doctors will see you now.

Richmond Bone & Joint Clinic is proud to serve the Fort Bend community.

Come visit our doctors in Richmond and Sugar Land.

We practice evidence-based medicine while delivering the highest level of collaborative, quality patient-centered care.

We cover the entire range or orthopedic care and musculoskeletal conditions, including: • General orthopedics • Pediatric orthopedics • Spine surgery

• Orthopedic sports medicine • Sports medicine • Pain management

15035 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.344.1715

Visit mhmg.memorialhermann.org to schedule an appointment.

1517 Thompson Rd (FM 762) Richmond, TX 77469 281.344.1715

• Hand / Wrist / Elbow • Joint replacement • Podiatry

John T. Nguyen, MD, FACS, FICS

New Facility Reflects Persona of Sugar Land Plastic Surgery

N

estled lakeside along Brooks Lake in Sugar Land is a sleek, contemporary building clad entirely in Egyptian limestone that immediately catches the eye. It is upscale, exquisitely beautiful and flawless in design. This attention to fine detail and elegance comes naturally to the building’s designer and owner, Sugar Land Plastic Surgery’s Dr. John T. Nguyen.

Dr. Nguyen personally attended to every detail of his new state-of-the-art medical office and attached surgical center located on Creek Bend Drive that features six treatment rooms, a procedure room and a comprehensive surgical suite. But attention to detail is nothing new for this highly acclaimed plastic surgeon. “The design for our new office focused on ensuring patient safety and comfort,” said Dr. Nguyen. “My design team and I wanted to create an elegant and modern facility that met the highest standards in the industry.”

In a short five years of impressive growth, Dr. Nguyen has established a reputation for compassionate care, patient safety and a constant strive for perfection. “Our new building reflects our practice’s persona – clean lines, modern design, upscale amenities and impeccable attention to detail. One look at our new office and one can see that it is not the typical Sugar Land red brick box. The building is a work of art clad entirely in Egyptian limestone, Italian flooring, and custom wall coverings all coordinated to create an elegant and modern facility.”

Sugar Land Plastic Surgery’s new state-of-the-art facility located at 16614 Creek Bend Drive.

COVER STORY

By Linda K. Eaves fort bend

magazine • June 2013

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Beyond the beautiful façade, Dr. Nguyen’s new office functions as a state-of-the-art medical facility built to the highest safety standards set by the State of Texas Department of Health. When it comes to patient safety, no expense was spared, no compromises were acceptable. “I made every effort to insure that with our new building, we met or surpassed every industry standard. We will be capable of performing a multitude of procedures safely and efficiently in our surgical suite. Additionally, the new facility is equipped to offer the latest in skin care and laser treatments,” said Dr. Nguyen.

Sugar Land Plastic Surgery’s new home is only a few blocks away from Interstate 59 and Highway 6. While the building itself is breathtaking, the beautiful, serene lakeside setting is equally as impressive. Guests can stroll along the walking path surrounding the lake or relax on the facility’s lakeside patio. The building also features a spacious general lobby area, as well as private waiting areas for family members and patients. WIFI is available along with a private and accessible parking area.

Philosophy of Excellence Dr. Nguyen completed two residency programs, one in general surgery and the second in plastic surgery. With this

extensive training, he brings valuable experience to his operating room and is well-known for providing exemplary care for his patients. Dr. Nguyen believes that surgical and nonsurgical enhancements should not alter the qualities that make each patient unique but rather highlight the beauty that exists in each individual.

The “patient-centered” approach at Sugar Land Plastic Surgery is also personified in the knowledgeable and caring staff members. They are passionate about their work and are dedicated to meeting the individual needs of each patient.

While patient care and safety is a priority for Dr. Nguyen, patient education is equally as important. “I feel a responsibility to help educate not only my patients, but anyone considering plastic surgery,” shared Dr. Nguyen who has volunteered to provide patient education for the community via media and speaking engagements. “Whether patients choose me or other very well respected plastic surgeons in our community, what matters most is that patients gain useful knowledge to help them make sound decisions or to simply learn about plastic surgery.”

Dr. John T. Nguyen

Photo by Anthony Rathbun www.fortbend

.com • June 2013

17

The Consultation The first step to a surgical procedure with Dr. Nguyen includes a personal consultation. “It is important that we discuss a patient’s desired changes and expectations, review their medical history and current health, and make an assessment on whether the procedure(s) in question are right for

The caring team of Sugar Land Plastic Surgery: Ofelia Cornejo, Heather Novosad, Amber Vega, Lea Marchesano, Therese Landa, Dr. John Nguyen and Tina Ngo. Photo by Anthony Rathbun

Dr. John Nguyen with patient Robin Franklin.

Photo by Alisa Murray Photography.

that individual,” said Dr. Nguyen. “I encourage patients to ask specific questions about the procedure so that they are fully prepared, mentally and emotionally for surgery, and we discuss the results that can be achieved with the aid of photos and/or computer imaging.” Dr. Nguyen emphasizes that cosmetic surgery is truly elective in most cases, and therefore, patients should

never feel pressured or rushed into surgery. “Less can often be better when it comes to cosmetic surgery,” said Dr. Nguyen.

Visit Dr. Nguyen and his staff at Sugar Land Plastic Surgery’s new office located at 16614 Creek Bend Drive.

For more information, visit online at www.MyBodySurgeon.com or call 281980-8000.

Patient Testimonials In the world of plastic surgery, it’s all about results. So what do Dr. Nguyen’s patients have to say about him and Sugar Land Plastic Surgery?

“W

ow! I had a face/neck lift and no one noticed. But wait.

None of my friends have told me lately that I look tired. My family has stopped asking me, ‘What is wrong?’ and ‘Why do you look so sad?’

“I came to Dr. Nguyen, and he listened. I am 60 years-old and did not want to wake up from surgery and look 40. I wanted to look refreshed like I just came back from a relaxing vacation. I think I got everything I asked for.

“Thank you, Dr. Nguyen and your staff. You patiently met with me and answered all of my questions. I never felt pressured and never was made to feel that my feelings were frivolous.” - D.R.

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“I

was always scared to move forward in any way shape or form in the direction of changing my natural looks. Dr. Nguyen not only made me feel comfortable and confident throughout the whole procedure, but my results came out to look more natural than my natural self . . . if that makes any sense! He is a perfectionist and an artist. He also will not alter your look if it isn’t in your best interest, or you don’t need it. Some doctors will try to get you to upgrade, go bigger and try to make more money off you, whereas Dr. Nguyen is more about the art of it and making people feel better about themselves than when they walked into the door. He also stays in touch with his patients to make sure they are still happy, and this is also reassuring!” – Laura

magazine • June 2013

18

Prepared by the Hardee Investment Group and RBC Wealth Management

FOCU$ on FINANCE

Eve of Destruction

A

funny thing happened on the way to financial Armageddon.

The stock market evidently took a wrong turn and didn’t fall off a cliff. When you look back, you scratch your head and ask yourself, “Why didn’t this happen?”

2012 was a year of great uncertainty and anxiety. It was a year of politics with a presidential election. That means two different views, two sets of accusations and a lot of high profile media exposure. Month after month of constant bombardment is a form of brainwashing. Our anxiety continued to build. This was directly measured in the sale of firearms in the last months of the year. Also, we had dire predictions of a fiscal cliff, a debt ceiling and sequestration. Let’s not forget a potential increase in taxes from 15% to 40% for dividends and capital gains. Add it all up, and it’s a very scary picture.

What’s an investor to do? Sell everything and hide?

Hindsight is 20-20. The S&P 500 was up 13% in spite of all the dire predictions. Sir John Templeton famously said, “Bull markets are born on pessimism, grow on skepticism, mature on optimism and die on euphoria.” Last year was a classic example of this. In retrospect, it was easy to say, hard to do.

In our past articles, we have used greed and fear as learning tools. Emotion is the greatest destroyer of wealth known to man. Fear of the unknown caused many investors to see only what couldn’t be done. In reality, housing is recovering, jobs are increasing, corporate profits are up, and America is back as the low-cost producer of energy. The next decade could be a lot of fun.

There always seems to be a financial “Armageddon” or a reason not to invest each year. There’s a lot of information

out there, and most of it is intimidating. Information is not knowledge. Let us distill this information into actionable knowledge for you. Visit us online at HardeeInvestmentGroup.com at your convenience. While you’re there, take a moment to request a copy of our Family Emergency Workbook so you’re more prepared for the next “Armageddon” or familial emergency.

The views presented herein are solely those of H.H. “Will” Hardee, and do not necessarily represent the views of RBC Wealth Management. Current status of issues discussed in this letter is subject to change based upon market conditions and industry fundamentals. Clients should work with their Financial Advisor to develop investment strategies tailored to their own financial circumstances.

Past performance is no guarantee of future results. The name Hardee Investment Group refers to a group of Financial Advisor working in the Houston, Texas office of RBC Wealth Management. The Hardee Investment Group is not a separate legal or corporate entity. All services offered and all memberships referenced in the presentation refer to the services offered or registrations held through RBC Wealth Management. RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets LLC, Member NYSE/ FINRA/SIPC.

Peace of Mind

Are you experiencing mental numbness regarding your finances during these challenging times? We can help implement financial strategies for managing and building long-lasting wealth. Let us do the work. Since 1977, we have been providing families and businesses guidance that is always In The Client’s Best Interest.

Hardee Investment Group

Hardee Investment Group (713) 853-0879 • (800) 838-0757 www.hardeeinvestmentgroup.com © 2012 RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC.

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magazine • June 2013

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r a t S g in in h S ’s d n e B t For Competes on

The Voice

y r r e B h a n n a v Sa

By Nick Nicholson

B

efore The Voice. Before Team Blake. And even before Safe and Sound, Savannah Berry had an audience in Missouri City, Texas that thought she was the most talented singer in the world.

G

Photo by Mark Guerro

rowing up as a product of the Fort Bend Independent School District, Savannah was quick to point out her two biggest influences were her grandmother and her middle school choir teacher, Karen Clark, at Baines Middle School. “I loved singing for my grandparents especially their favorites,” Savannah commented. “Between Patsy Cline, the Judds or LeAnn Rimes, I always had them smiling.” Berry went on to comment about her beloved Middle School Choir Teacher who was so memorable. “Ms. Clark was always so excited and supportive about music. Her class was so important to me, and even now, she is so encouraging to me and that means a lot.”

But it wasn’t so much the admiration and devotion of her family and friends in Fort Bend County that made Savannah Berry fort bend

a singing sensation. It’s what happened on the internet that allowed the world to discover Savannah Berry. But, like most "overnight success" stories, there were years of dedication and commitment that came before. Savannah, now 18, has been performing live since she was eight-years-old. It all began when her grandmother first brought her on stage to sing with her at a Saturday night Opry in Houston.

For some artists, it becomes obThe Voice, vious to everyone around them that Photo by they are destined for the stage before Trae Patton they have even realized it themselves.

Eighteen-year-old Savannah Berry is that type of singer.

When Savannah was in the sixth grade, she got the idea that it would be fun to videotape her performances of songs and post them on YouTube for her family and friends to enjoy. She was surprised when her very first YouTube video, Somewhere Over the Rainbow, received a flurry of encouraging responses from people that she did not know. Her new fans would leave Savannah’s YouTube posts requesting that she perform requests of some of their favorite songs. With each posting Savannah left for her audience on her YouTube channel, Savannah Sings, her following grew and grew and finally, just took off.

magazine • June 2013

22

Between her dad and her manager, Randy Miller, Savannah received enough encouragement to audition for season two of The Voice.

Proving that not everything was simply a bed of roses for her, she didn’t make the cut. “My experience auditioning for The Voice in season two was so critical to my development,” she remarked. “I had no idea how the show worked and was hesitant about the process, so I wasn’t completely focused on how to make the process work for me.” Savannah went on to remark that the process of auditioning really helped her grow and learn the ins and outs of competition.

In 2011, the Academy of Country Music (ACM) and Dick Clark Productions discovered Savannah and invited her to perform a video duet with the country music superstar group Sugarland. Savannah enthusiastically accepted and joined Sugarland’s Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush backstage at Nashville’s legendary Ryman Auditorium, home of the Grand Ole Opry. They performed the duo’s number one hit Stuck Like Glue, and the video was released in March 2011 to promote the ACM Awards telecast.

Savannah was invited to attend the ACM Awards show in Las Vegas where she joined Sugarland for her first ever walk down the red carpet. To cap off the dream come true series of events, she was invited to perform at the ACM Awards All Star Jam, which, as an unsigned artist, is a very rare occurrence. She was honored that night to be on the same stage as Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, Sunny Sweeney, Toby Keith, Sara Evans and Dierks Bentley.

The social media savvy country star has an extraordinary ability to connect with her audience on stage as well as online. Savannah performs regularly, solo and with her band, throughout her home state at opry’s, rodeos and clubs. She has also dedicated some of her time performing at the Country Music is Love benefit concert for City of Hope alongside Thompson Square, Josh Thompson, Chris Cavanaugh and Brett Eldredge.

In the summer of 2012, Savannah independently released her first CD of original songs that she wrote with two of Nashville’s brightest songwriters, Zac Maloy, who penned Carrie Underwood’s Temporary Home, and Kevin Griffin, who wrote Sugarland’s Stuck Like Glue. Even with all of these incredible memories and performances, Savannah knew she had unfinished business.

Savannah happened to catch some information online about the upcoming fourth

season of The Voice but was disappointed she missed the Texas auditions. Fortunately, that didn’t matter. With encouragement once again coming from her dad and manager, she set out to audition in Los Angeles, and she made it! “Working with Blake Sheldon was an absolute dream come true,” Savannah said excitedly. “Blake was such a strong believer in me and so supportive. I am just so thankful that I had the opportunity to learn from him.”

With so many performance oriented reality shows, particularly shows that include a wide range of good to bad ability, there was a certain amount of curiosity concerning The Voice. When asked about the talent level of The Voice, Savannah was quick to point out that it isn’t like other performance venue shows. “When it came to the talent level of the competitors on The Voice, it became apparent quickly that there were no poor singers at all,” Savannah remarked. “Everyone was so talented and seri“My time on ous about their craft, the show will stay it was just exciting to listen and learn with me forever, and from each of them.”

I am so fortunate Although Savanto have had the nah competed well and made everyone opportunity.” proud, her stay on The Voice lasted un- Savannah Berry til mid-April. “I had a blast and am so excited to have made it as far as I did and have the experiences that I did.

My time on the show will stay with me forever, and I am so fortunate to have had the opportunity.”

When it comes to the young aspiring singers, Savannah has some excellent advice for everyone. “My thoughts would be to always be yourself, study hard and listen to all kinds of music – not just one genre.” She went on to say that it is critical to learn as much as you can as you pursue your dreams. “Create your own sound, and better yet, learn to play an instrument. Be creative and never forget where The Voice, Photos by Trae Patton you came from!” www.fortbend

.com • June 2013

23

Imagine ... Straight teeth — No braces!

Road Tested Travel Apps

By Melissa Horn

I

t’s summer and that means the summer travel season is in full swing. However, it’s not too late to start thinking about the perfect getaway. Smartphones and tablets make excellent travel companions. Here are a few useful mobile apps, available for both Apple and Android, that can help make a vacation stress-free and fun.

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Trip Planning

The top-rated Evernote app organizes anything imaginable, including travel-related information like itineraries, into digital notebooks which can be accessed anywhere on any device. Researching locales? Use Pinterest to visually search for locations, and pin favorites to a Pinterest board for future reference. Once a destination has been chosen, Kayak can find the best deal on flights, and TripAdvisor provides reliable reviews of hotels and attractions.

Road Trip

Hitting the road? The Mad Libs (Apple only), Road Trip Scavenger Hunt and License Plate Game HD apps are a cure for backseat boredom. Gas Buddy will keep the gas tank full, and the Sit or Squat app will find a bathroom when it’s needed most. AroundMe is a must have app for finding restaurants, ATMs and supermarkets near a current location. Summer travelers can also rely on Google Maps to get them where they are going and Roadside America (Apple only) to find interesting and unique stops along the way.

The Destination Explore a city with the City Maps 2Go app and never carry around a paper map or guide book again. HearPlanet turns a smartphone into an audio tour guide. It’s like having a tour guide in your pocket. Urban Spoon will find great local eats, and the Wi-Fi Finder app will point travelers to a city’s hotspot locations. Share travel adventures with family and friends with photo sharing app Instagram. And, for a more personal touch, Postagram will turn a vacation photo into a real postcard and send it to anyone in the U.S., Canada or Europe.

Take the tedium out of trip planning, and get the most out of your summer vacation this year with the help of some useful and fun technology.

fort bend

magazine • June 2013

24

Robert & Carissa Wojehowski May 7, 2011

Ricardo & Elissa Gonzalez July 7, 2012

Luke & Courtney Wallace October 13, 2012

Scott & Sarah Ralph January 26, 2013

Robert & Lauren Benoit March 2, 2013

James & Kristen Dodd April 6, 2013

If you or your children have recently married and you would like to enter for a chance to be featured in our next Real Weddings, all you need is at least ten high-resolution photos of the ceremony and/or reception. It doesn’t matter where the wedding took place, as long as it was in the last year and you or your parent/s reside in Fort Bend. Complete the “Wedding Form” at www.FortBendFocus.com and email photos to grace@fortbendfocus.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.

Real

Weddings

Bride Courtney Onofrey Wallace Photography by Katie Lamb Photography www.fortbend

.com • June 2013

25

Photography by Momento Photography

Robert & Carissa Wojehowski May 7, 2011 Photography by Momento Photography

Details

Bride’s Full Name: Carissa Capra Groom’s Full Name: Robert J. Wojehowski, Jr. Ceremony Site: Saint Fransiscus Catholic Church – Aruba Reception Site: Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino Rehearsal Dinner Site: Madame Janette – Aruba Photography: Momento Photography Wedding Planner: Juney Jones – Renaissance Aruba Officiant: Father Ray Nares Gown: Winnie Couture Veil: Custom Made, Beautiful U – Houston Shoes: Benjamin Adams Jewelry: Winnie Couture, Nordstrom Hair: Maggie Salon – Aruba Makeup: Tiffany Vaccaro Bridesmaid Dresses: Butter By Nadia Formalwear: Men’s Wearhouse Invitations: Passion Paper Flowers: Renaissance Aruba Catering: Renaissance Aruba Cake: Renaissance Aruba Music: Renaissance Aruba Favors: Men’s Fedoras, Women’s Beach Hats Accommodations: Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino Honeymoon: Aruba

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magazine • June 2013

26

Photography by Agape Studio House

Ricardo & Elissa Gonzalez July 7, 2012 Photography by Agape Studio House

Details

Bride’s Full Name: Elissa Cristina Prado Groom’s Full Name: Ricardo Jose Gonzalez Ceremony Site: Holy Rosary Catholic Church Reception Site: Holy Rosary Gathering Hall Photography: Agape Studio House Videography: A&A Video Productions Officiant: Father Christopher Plant Gown: Ventura Bridal Veil: Alfred Angelo Hair: Albert Luiz Salon Makeup: Albert Luiz Salon Formalwear: Al’s Formal Wear Invitations: Al’s Formal Wear Flowers: Flowers by Laura Ventoza Catering: Lola Catering Cake: Cakes by Margaret Music: Javier Prado and Family Favors: Vintage Garden: Tea and Honey Honeymoon: Belize

fort bend

magazine • June 2013

28

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

Photography by Katie Lamb Photography

Luke & Courtney Wallace October 13, 2012 Photography by Katie Lamb Photography

Details

Bride’s Full Name: Courtney Lee Onofrey Groom’s Full Name: Luke Joseph Wallace Ceremony Site: Flat Creek Estate and Vineyard – Marble Falls, Texas Reception Site: Flat Creek Estate and Vineyard – Marble Falls, Texas Photography: Katie Lamb Photography Videography: Stelly Weddings Officiant: Chuck Barnard Gown: Vera Wang from Casa de Novia Bridal Veil: Vera Wang Shoes: Vera Wang Jewelry: J. Loggins and Swarovski Hair: Your Makeup Expert Makeup: Your Makeup Expert Formalwear: Men’s Wearhouse Invitations: Elegant Custom Invitations Flowers: Petal Pushers – Austin, Texas Catering: Flat Creek Estate and Vineyard Cake: Michelle’s Patisserie – Austin, Texas Music: Divisi Strings & Altared Wedding Productions DJ Favors: Personalized Wine Glasses Transportation: Shuttle Buses Honeymoon: Capella Resort in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

fort bend

magazine • June 2013

30

Designing Your Dream Ring… any shape any size any color any time

Fort Bend’s Custom Jeweler 14015 Southwest Freeway at Sugar Creek

281-242-2900 www.jloggins.com

HOURS: TUES-FRI. 10-6 • SAT. 10-3

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1945 Lakeside Plaza, Ste 112 (Across from Target)

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• Applied by licensed experienced stylist • 1 Single extension per natural lash (no clusters/flares) • Specialize in eyelash extensions • Eyelash extensions will give you longer, thicker, fuller lashes • No need for any more mascara • Maintain the highest industry standards

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281.491.4911 originaltrolley.com www.fortbend

.com • June 2013

31

Photography by Lindsay Elizabeth Photography

Scott & Sarah Ralph January 26, 2013 Photography by Lindsay Elizabeth Photography

Details

Bride’s Full Name: Sarah Elizabeth Ford Groom’s Full Name: Scott Gregory MacDonald Ralph Ceremony Site: Briscoe Manor Reception Site: Briscoe Manor Rehearsal Dinner Site: The Swinging Door Photography: Lindsay Elizabeth Photography Videography: Ryan Key – POP Video Wedding Planner: Lesli Hirsh – Briscoe Manor Officiant: Robert B. Stanbery, III – Uncle of the Bride Gown: Enzoani Veil: Cousin’s Veil Shoes: Cole Haan Jewelry: Pearls – Gift from Grandmother Hair: Kathy Lineberger Makeup: Renee Gonzalez Formalwear: Al’s Formalwear Invitations: William Arthur Flowers: Flora Bella Designs Catering: Behind The Bash Cake: Susie’s Cakes Music: Scott Graham – DJU Productions Favors: Becky’s Sweet Treats Accommodations: Sugar Land Marriott Town Square Honeymoon: St. Lucia

fort bend

magazine • June 2013

32

Rustic Charm at its Best

Experience a peaceful country setting like no other at the George Ranch Historical Park.

With seven historic venues and countless custom package offerings, the possibilities are as wide as the blue Texas sky.

Weddings • Receptions Picnics • Corporate Events Galas • Meetings Signature Events at our Historic Sites

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.com • June 2013

33

Photography by Philip Thomas Photography

Robert & Lauren Benoit March 2, 2013 Photography by Philip Thomas Photography

Details

Bride’s Full Name: Lauren Beth Dante Groom’s Full Name: Robert Alexander Benoit Ceremony Site: Lost Mission in San Antonio Reception Site: Lost Mission in San Antonio Rehearsal Dinner Site: Aldaco’s Mexican Cuisine Photography: Philip Thomas Photography Videography: Ourweddingvideo.com Wedding Planner: Schwartz & Woodward Officiants: Reverend Preston Greenwalt Gown: Maggie Sottero-Olivia Veil: Finger-Tipped Veil Embellished with Scattered Crystals Shoes: White Strappy Heels Adorned with Crystals Jewelry: Dillard’s Hair: Pure Posh Salon Makeup: Pure Posh Salon Bridesmaid Dresses: Black Cocktail Dresses of the Bridesmaid’s Choosing Formalwear: SuitMart Invitations: The Paper Connection Flowers: Alamo Plants and Petals Catering: Page Barteau Catering Cake: Cakes by Cathy Young Music: DJ-Philip Chancellor of 5150 Productions; Ceremony-Monte Vista Strings and Tim Kaminski Favors: Photo Booth Pictures and Mini Fruit Pies Transportation: A-1 Limousine & Sedan Service Accommodations: JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Honeymoon: Los Cabos, Mexico fort bend

magazine • June 2013

34

Dante-Benoit Wedding M

iss Lauren Beth Dante and Mr. Robert Alexander Benoit were united in marriage on Saturday, March 2, 2013 at 6:00 in the evening at Lost Mission Chapel in San Antonio, Texas.

The Reverend Preston Greenwalt officiated. Following the ceremony, dinner and dancing were hosted by the bride’s parents in the reception hall at Lost Mission. On the eve of the wedding, the groom’s parents hosted a rehearsal dinner at Aldaco’s Mexican Cuisine.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gary Dante of Missouri City, Texas.

She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Selwyn Dante of Houston, Texas and the late June Lustberg Dante and the late Mr. and Mrs. Archie Rayford. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Benoit of Centralia, Missouri. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Benoit of Centralia, Mr. and Mrs. Cecil Nutt of Clark, Missouri and Mr. Alex Benton of Houston, Texas.

Given in marriage by her parents and escorted by her father, the bride wore a gown designed by Maggie Sottero. The fitted A-line gown featured embellished lace visible through sheer tulle overlay.

The three-tiered lace and tulle train was accented by hand sewn organza flower motifs. To complement her gown, Lauren wore her sister’s finger-tipped wedding veil embellished with scattered crystals.

The bride carried an exquisite bouquet of white mini callas with ivory and sahara roses and pearl embellished stephanotis.

Lindsey Dante-Smith served as her sister’s Matron of Honor. Serving as bridesmaids were the groom’s two sisters, Justina Auck and Mary Benoit, along with Kara Newton, Taylor Reed and Sarah Tibbs.

www.fortbend

.com • June 2013

35

Photos by Philip Thomas Photography

The bridal party each chose their own black cocktail dresses and carried lovely bouquets of pale pink roses, peonies and soft pink mini callas. Serving as Best Man was the groom’s brother, Mitchell Benoit.

The groomsmen included Sayre Auck, Jared Benoit, Alex Berry and Devon Bowne.

Lauren graduated in 2007 from Elkins High School in Missouri City, Texas. She earned her Bachelor of Journalism degree with an emphasis in Strategic Communication from the University of Missouri. Lauren is a Development Officer with the University of Missouri Health System in Columbia, Missouri. Alex is a 2007 graduate of Centralia High School.

He graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture Systems Management from the University of Missouri. Alex is a row-crop farmer in Centralia. The couple resides in Centralia, Missouri.

Photography by McKerlie Photography

James & Kristen Dodd April 6, 2013 Photography by McKerlie Photography

Details

Bride’s Full Name: Kristen Marie Marlatt Groom’s Full Name: James David Dodd Ceremony Site: St. Laurence Catholic Church Reception Site: Riverbend Country Club Rehearsal Dinner Site: Gringo’s Mexican Photography: McKerlie Photography Wedding Planner: Mother of the bride, Michelle Marlatt Officiant: Father Reginald Samuels Gown: Impression Bridal Veil: Impression Bridal Hair: Gallery of Salons Makeup: Gallery of Salons Bridesmaid Dresses: Bill Levkoff Formalwear: Al’s Formalwear Invitations: American Wedding Flowers: Nora Anne’s Catering: Riverbend Country Club Cake: Bessie’s Bakery Music: DJ’s Unlimited Favors: Candy Buffett Accommodations: Marriott Town Center Honeymoon: Maui

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magazine • June 2013

36

When Experience Matters, Get Local Decisions Faster.

Bruce Mercer

Executive Vice President / Regional Lending & Sales Manager

Susan Tomchesson

Thomas Danik

Vice President / Loan Officer

Senior Vice President / Loan Officer

Craig Brooks

Senior Vice President / Private Banking Manager & Loan Officer

When a timely decision on your loan matters, turn to your local, experienced lending team at First Victoria.

Our team of Relationship Managers takes the time to get to know you, your business and what it takes to build a solid financial future. They share over 150 years of combined commercial banking experience and are right here in Fort Bend to make decisions and loans—faster.

So call on the experienced lending team at First Victoria to lend you a hand.

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A historic wedding venue

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Located in the heart of historic downtown Richmond, the classically elegant 1883 Moore Home is the perfect setting for a day time ceremony in the shade of the 60-year-old magnolia tree or a candle-lit evening gathering of up to 250 guests.

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www.fortbend

.com • June 2013

37

twitter.com/FirstVictoria www.firstvictoria.com

FILM REVIEW

By Nick Nicholson

T

iming is everything. Like the timing belt in a car, a tweak here and a tweak there makes all the difference in the world. Nothing could be more accurate when it comes to the Fast & Furious film series. The studio keeps putting them out, they make tons of money and are just down right entertaining. Although each film is different, they are eerily the same.

Although the formula is still there, it’s the tinkering here and there that keeps the franchise fresh and exciting for the moviegoer.

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson returns as Hobbs, the DSS agent who travels the world with his team seeking the prey for their mission. After asking for help, Hobbs and the team travel to London in order to foil a hijacking scheme that has been masterminded by a former special ops soldier, Owen Shaw (Luke Evans). Should Dom and his team be successful on their mission, full pardons await for everyone on the crew. Michelle Rodriguez returns to the series as Letty, who was left for dead earlier in the series. She seems the perfect bait as she currently works with Shaw.

taposition with the dialog is brilliant.

With Lin’s direction and Chris Morgan’s script, the film contains the balance necessary to have enough of each without feeling forced or overwrought.

Some of the writing is well done, but the script also provides the majority of the “you can’t be serious” moments such as the explanation of Letty’s return. Please be sure to keep Cathy Bates out of the screening room! Don’t get me wrong. This film isn’t incredible, but it is a popcorn summertime action film if there ever was one. For what it is, the picture is pretty dog gone entertaining.

The cards are truly stacked against Hobbs as the team comes to the conclusion that Shaw really is ahead of them every step of the way. In one of the most spectacular stunt sequences I have seen in a long time, the action is edge of your seat palpable as the Formula One cars stack on top of each other and flip around like leaves in the wind.

Justin Lin is once again the director in the series, and he doesn’t disappoint. His vision of the action and jux-

Luke Evans and Vin Diesel

Dwayne Johnson

Fast & Furious 6 Starring: Vin Diesel and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson Director: Justin Lin Company: Universal Pictures Now Showing: In Local Theatres MPAA Rating: PG-13 Grade: B Photos Courtesy of Universal Pictures

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

magazine • June 2013

38

The MOST Complete

ORTHOPEDIC CARE in FORT BEND COUNTY D. Dean Dominy, III, M.D. Hand & Upper Extremities

Kenneth M. Renney, M.D.

Sports Medicine

Jeffrey B. Wood, M.D.

Diseases & Deformities of the Spine

Eddie T. Matsu, M.D.

General Orthopedics, Joint Replacement

Mark W. Maffet, M.D.

Knee & Shoulder Surgery, Sports Medicine

Timothy C. Sitter, M.D.

Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas

Knee & Shoulder Surgery, Sports Medicine

Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas (MOST) physicians are

Hand & Upper Extremities

recognized as some of the finest board certified physicians in the specialty of orthopedics. They provide comprehensive, world-class orthopedic care under one roof right here in Fort Bend County —

Vincent C. Phan, M.D. Carl A. Hicks, M.D.

Joint Reconstructive Surgery

Christopher K. Smith, M.D.

Adult & Pediatric Orthopedics

from sports medicine to joint replacement, hand and wrist to ankle

David A. Braunreiter, M.D.

and spine care. They perform on a higher level, so you can, too.

Ray R. Valdez, M.D.

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

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Sports Medicine Foot & Ankle

Diseases & Deformities of the Spine

Four Convenient Locations:

 1201 Brooks Street  Sugar Land, Texas 77478  1327 Lake Pointe Parkway, Suite 425  Sugar Land, Texas 77478  18400 Katy Freeway, Suite 200  Houston, Texas 77094  2500 Fondren, Suite 209  Houston, Texas 77063 281-494-MOST (6678)  MethodistOrthopedics.com  MOSTappts@tmhs.org

Proud Sponsor of Deacon’s Dugout for the Sugar Land Skeeters

S E E N on the Scene

33rd Annual Crawfish Festival Benefiting the Oyster Creek Rotary Foundation

Merdarius, Stephanie & Merlin Roberts

Bryce & Rick Ellis with Dylan Weiss

Jim Rice & Floyd Emery

Heath Hunhicats, Myron Jackson & Winnie Florendo Larry Burns & Ted Reese

James Gordon, Elissa Wedemeyer & Glenn Adams

Ken & Betty Vanway

Ohiana Negrete, Helen Liang & Dawson Stamper

Ivan & Jo Butterfield

S

ummer Camp at

Sugar Land Gymnastics • Ages 4 to 10 • Boys & Girls • Family Discounts • Register for 1-Day or All Summer

Jedi Sword Fighting • Gymnastics Giant 20’ Slide • Ninja Hide & Seek Stranger Danger Seminars • Moonwalk Dodge Ball • Arts & Crafts • Games & Movies fort bend

magazine • June 2013

Sugar Land Gymnastics 16215 Lexington Blvd.

281-240-0999 SugarLandGymnastics.com Not a Licensed Day Care Center

40

April 13, 2013 • Stafford Centre

Grady & Fheryl Prestage with Linda Prestage

Bill Smith & Bryan Anderson

Joshua & Meaghan Biles with Kelli Wallock & Chris Brod

Joan Johnson, Sue Morse & Jackie Wohlfahrt

Patrick Hardy with Norman & Gerri Chandler

Alyssa Edwards, Myrsine & Austin Howard, Blake Edwards & Chad Howard

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Lisa Moore & Anne Bulan

Alisha & Jill Curtis

Dawn & Brian Covault

John & Sharon Dimicelli with Brigit & Andrew Engleman

Sonal Bhuchar with Troy & Jill Nehls

Roxanne D’Ascenzo & P.J. Meyers

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Bunion Pain?

You No Longer Need To Suffer • Outpatient Surgery Using Local Anesthesia • Minimum Disability - Able to walk same day • State-of-the-art Medical & Surgical Technology • Dissolvable Pins and Fixation Techniques

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“

S E E N on the Scene

Treasures Under the Sea Gala Benefiting Child Advocates of Fort Bend

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

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

May 4, 2013 • Sugar Land Marriott Town Square

Michelle Fisher & Ivan Mefford

Darnell O’Neal & Katina Scott

Bobbie & Jim McClellan with Ruth Anne Mefford

Vincent & Regina Morales

Kim & Sam Cress

Johnathan Rivas & Kaitlyn Corbin

Troy & Morgan Aderhold

Hansa & Naren Patel

Rhinoplasty

A Father Nose Best!

Peter Chang, M.D. and his Concierge Care Team

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S E E N on the Scene

Hats, Gloves & Boutonnieres Benefitting Fort Bend Children’s Discover Center

Renu Narang, Asha Dhume, Aparna Rae & Seema Sanghi

Susan & Nell Ciancarelli

KK West & Debbie Marcell

Susan Buddeke & Cyndy Garza

Charlene Pate, Debbie Fash & Dorsey Shriver

Jan Leaman, Peggy Jackson & Lynn Halford

Elsa Maxey & Fiona Cunningham

Debbie Buckner & Cindy Dempster

Become a Sinusitis Success Story Do you suffer from pain, pressure or other symptoms of recurring or persisting sinus infections? Ask your doctor about balloon sinus dilation technology – the life-changing new treatment for recurrent sinusitis. www.HoustonENT.com

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May 8, 2013 • Home of Paul and Manmeet Likhari

Marianne Hettig, Sharon Medford, Lori Shirley & Lara Millis

Jasdeep Lamba & Nicky Singh

Ann Smith & Betty Baitland

Preet Munday & Shelena Lalji

Teresa Dornhorst & Kay Martin

Debi Roberts & Judy Bartay

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Karen Chitty-Boe & Sonal Bhuchar

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Sugar Land Skeeters Sign Kody Clemens Kody Clemens, son of legendary pitcher Roger Clemens, signed a contract with the Sugar Land Skeeters for the 2013 season.

Kody Clemens, an eighth-round draft pick of the Houston Astros in 2005, is familiar with the independent league team.

He served as his father’s catcher in the second of the Rocket’s two starts for the Skeeters last summer.

“Kody showed me a lot last year.

He’s played different positions, he’s always been a good hitter and you know his pedigree and his bloodline are solid,” Skeeters Manager Gary Gaetti said.

“When he came to catch last year, he looked really good behind the plate. For me, he looked good enough to take a chance on and to be our guy to catch.”

You can catch Kody and the other Skeeters all summer long. Log onto www.sugarlandskeeters.com.

281-242-FEET (3338) Call Today to schedule your visit

Certified Provider

We Treat Many Common Foot Problems Including:

Dr. Y Bryan Lee Informed patients choose Board Certified Podiatrist Dr. Y Bryan Lee for all their foot health needs.

LOCATED AT

56 Sugar Creek Center Blvd. #250 (Sugar Creek Offices) Sugar Land, TX

• BUNIONS • NEUROMAS • HAMMERTOES • INGROWN • HEEL PAIN TOE NAILS • ACHILLES TENDON • AND MUCH PROBLEMS MORE

KILLS TOENAIL FUNGUS

Kody and Roger Clemens on the field as Sugar Land Skeeters.

Say Goodbye to Toenail Fungus NEW! FDA Approved Patented Laser Technology

PinPointe is a quick, safe, and painless procedure that involves no anesthesia. It’s usually effective after only one treatment.

8200 Wednesbury Ln. #210 (Wednesbury Medical Building) Houston, TX

www.AdvancedFootDocs.com fort bend

magazine • June 2013

46

Debbie and Kody Clemens.

GASTROINTESTINAL CARE CONSULTANTS, P.A. CERTIFIED DIPLOMATES OF THE AMERICAN BOARD OF INTERNAL MEDICINE AND GASTROENTEROLOGY

MADHUKAR KAW, M.D.

TOJO THOMAS, M.D.

This

Father’s Day…

• Heartburns and Ulcers • Colon Polyps, Colon Cancer Screening • Crohn’s Disease & Ulcerative Colitis • Irritable Bowel Syndrome • Viral and Non-Viral Hepatitis • Pancreatitis, Gallstones • Gastrointestinal &Pancreatic Cancers • Unexplained Abdominal Pain Procedures: EGD, Colonoscopy, ERCP, Endoscopic Ultrasound, Endoscopic Treatment of Reflux TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS: 1400 Creekway Dr., Ste. 201B Sugar Land, TX 77478 12121 Richmond Ave., Ste. 424, Houston, Texas 77082 Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9.30 am - 5.30 pm

Medicare/Medicaid Patients and Private/Commercial Insurance Accepted.

APPOINTMENTS: 832-379-8603

…wrap the gift of f light.

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

Minimally Invasive & Robotic Surgery Adolescent Gynecology

Anson Aviation will help you discover a brand new way of life.

We’re based at the award-winning Sugar Land Regional Airport.

Call 281-242-2555 or visit ansonair.com.

Routine and High Risk Obstetrics Wellness Exams & Contraception Evaluation & Treatment of Pelvic Pain

Let them eat ice cream!

Treatment of Menopausal Symptoms

Feature a Southern Ice Cream Cart at your next event!

Preconception & Infertility Counseling

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www.myobgynofkaty.com Ann Bertles, MD, Board Certified Ob/Gyn www.fortbend

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N E W S W O RT H Y

Fort Bend Christian’s Baseball and Softball Teams Take State

On May 14th, both Fort Bend Christian Academy’s Varsity Baseball and Softball teams won the 2013 TAPPS 4A State Championships at the state playoffs at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor.

Coach Kelly Ferguson Carroll’s Lady Eagles won their fourth state title in the 4-0 win over Fort Worth Christian School. Lizzy Fox pitched an outstanding game, striking out twelve and allowing only three hits. In addition to Fox, Haley Meinen, Jessica Zak and Kelsey Roberts were named to the AllTournament Team.

Members of the Lady Eagles Softball team include Kelsey Roberts, Morgan Kornegay, Lauren Lazenby, Kendall Brown, Hannah Hawley, Parker McCarley, Katherine Krehmeier, Hayley Dryden, Jessica

Zak, Jennifer Hudler, Elizabeth Fox, Madison Gould, Mady Hill, Lauren Brown, Haley Meinen and Maggie Beckman. The team is coached by Head Coach Kelly Ferguson Carroll and Assistant Coaches Kelli Jacoby and Rachel Webking. Managers for the team are Emily DeBuck, Brooke Hallaman and Amanda Williams.

Coach Jesse Roman led the Eagles to their first State Championship game with a tense 12-11 victory over Midland Christian School. With a commanding lead for the first half of the game, the Eagles had to battle back in the sixth inning with four hits to secure the state championship title.

Named to the All-Tournament Team were Joe Lyall, Jack Thomas, Perry Hawley and Roe Medlin.

Members of the Eagles Baseball Team include Taylor Smith, Joe Lyall, Parker Smith, Brock Bartley, Ethan Stanley, Luke Pope, Rowe Medlin, Seth Hine, Perry Hawley, Tony Obeid, Trent Bohny, Hunter Ranly, Duncan McNair, Jack Thomas, Shea Hine, Michael Clines, Garret West, Ty Stubbs, Gunner West and Ryan Choi. The team is coached by Head Coach Jesse Roman and Assistant Coaches Mathis Huff, David McDaniel, Rob Thorborrow and C. Creighton Hoke. Team Managers are Lauren Ogden and Riley Russell, and Trainer Leslie Humphrey served on both championship teams.

Congratulations to the Fort Bend Christian Academy 2013 TAPPS 4A State Softball Champions and State Baseball Champions!

Achieve the Ultimate Smile!

People seeking cosmetic or reconstructive dental work should do research before making a decision in order to ensure proper care. As ADA recognized specialists, Prosthodontists are qualified to offer services in state-of-the-art procedures and techniques, such as: cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, complete and partial dentures, replacing lost or loose teeth, jaw joint problems (TMJ), traumatic injuries, snoring and sleep disorders and oral cancer reconstruction.

Replacing missing teeth in one day! before

after

Restore your smile with cosmetic dentistry! after

before

Implant Dentures in one day!

Stuart Rimes, DDS, MS

Crowns, Implants, Cosmetic, Reconstructive Dentistry Board Certified Prosthodontist

281-313-1565 15958 City Walk, Ste. 230, Sugar Land, TX 77479 | www.RimesDDS.com | e-mail: dr.rimes@comcast.net fort bend

magazine • June 2013

48

Beautiful Views From Your Future Colorado Home Site

Serving All of Fort Bend

10% OFF

Entire Purchase!

Frank’s Nursery

Besets Pric in ! n Tow

Not valid with any other offers or sale items. Must present this coupon to be valid. Exp. 6/30/13

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• Outdoor Home Decor • Landscaping • Design • Installation

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281-342-3211 You may have dreamt about a retirement house in Colorado or just a vacation home. You may want to consider a master planned development that offers much needed utilities. This beautiful waterfront lot with picturesque mountain views in Pagosa Springs is close to the family-owned Wolf Creek Ski Area and the mineral springs that made Pagosa Springs famous. This lot is approximately .24 acres in the Pagosa Lakes development that has all utilities as well as several fishing lakes, a golf course and other amenities. $89,000

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Mulch & More

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Sugar Land Welcomes DEFINE Body & Mind Houston’s most transforming workout studio has arrived in Sugar Land.

DEFINE Body & Mind helps clients develop strength, length and balance with their three signature classes – DEFINE

body, DEFINE mind and DEFINE revolution – now being offered at their new location at 16525 Lexington Blvd.

DEFINE’s signature 60-minute body class incorporates yoga, Pilates, bal-

GrowinG older doesn’t mean the options for enjoyinG life have to shrink.

Owner Elizabeth Whitehead.

Don’t struggle with aging. Find a solution.

From the vibrancy of independent living to the support of assisted living and memory care, we offer senior living solutions for all the places you’d still like to go. Call or visit us today to learn more.

THE HAMPTON MEADOWS PLACE Assisted Living Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care 11919 W. Airport Blvd.

Meadows Place, Texas 77477 1-855-563-3274

THE TERRACE AT FIRST COLONY Independent Living 16900 Lexington Boulevard Sugar Land, Texas 77479 1-877-634-8946

Facility No. 000474

brookdale.com ALL THE PLACES LIFE CAN GO is a Trade Mark of Brookdale Senior Living Inc., Nashville, TN, USA. ® Reg. U.S. Patent and TM Office. TEXAK-ROP01-0513 SC

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magazine • June 2013

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let condition and core work to tone and sculpt the entire body. DEFINE mind is a soothing, 60-minute class focused on gaining flexibility, refreshing the body and calming the mind. DEFINE revolution is their take on indoor cycling, a 45-minute rhythm-based full-body workout on the bike.

The mission at DEFINE Body & Mind is to educate people on how to become their absolute best. They believe that physical strength, length and balance impact both states of mind and being.

DEFINE creates an atmosphere that inspires results, fosters community and gives back to others in order to achieve sustainable health and happiness.

Owner Elizabeth Whitehead is a Rice University graduate, and she has been an athlete her entire life. As a child, she was a gymnast and later began to race triathlons. In looking to bring balance into her own workouts, Whitehead found DEFINE and since becoming a client, she is now a studio owner and instructor.

DEFINE Sugar Land is located at 16525 Lexington Blvd next to CVS. Email SugarLand@DEFINEbody.com to learn more about their unique concept to fitness.

The Grand Tasting at Sugar Land Marriott Town Square April 26, 2013

www.fortbend

.com • June 2013

51

Sugar Land Wine & Food Affair Sip & Stroll at Imperial Sugar Land • April 27, 2013

fort bend

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Sugar Land Wine & Food Affair Bistro Brunch at Sugar Land Town Square • April 28, 2013

www.fortbend

.com • June 2013

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e

e m o h

tr a e h

t

ase

e Rel

Saving Hope: Season One

By Nick Nicholson

E1 Entertainment

DVD

Identity Thief Universal

J

ason Bateman and Melissa McCarthy lead an all-star cast in this hilarious blockbuster hit. Unlimited funds have allowed Diana (McCarthy) to live it up on the outskirts of Orlando. There’s only one glitch: she’s financing her shopping sprees with an ID stolen from Sandy Patterson (Bateman), an account rep who lives halfway across the U.S. With only one week to hunt down the con artist before his world implodes, the real Sandy Patterson is forced to extreme measures to clear his name.

Laverne & Shirley: Season 6 CBS Paramount

S

et in the 1950s, this half-hour situation comedy revolved around the friendship between brighteyed, naive and demure Shirley Feeney and brassy, tough-talking, street smart Laverne De Fazio. Two bottle cappers for Shotz Brewery, the duo dated an array of questionable men, tolerated their dippy, loony neighbors Lenny and Squiggy, and forever pursued to make all their dreams come true.

W

hen tragedy strikes Chief of Surgery Charlie Harris (Michael Shanks), he leaves Hope Zion Hospital in chaos and his fiancée and fellow surgeon, Alex Reid (Erica Durance), in a state of shock.

Now trapped in a coma, Dr. Harris wanders the halls of the hospital in spirit form as Alex and the rest of the staff make courageous decisions to keep hope alive. This set includes two episodes not seen on television amongst a number of other bonus features.

Camperi’s 13246 Murphy Road #400 Stafford, Texas 77477

Office Furniture New & Used Modular Systems • Workstations Conference • Seating • Desk

281.499.6900 www.camperisofficefurniture.com fort bend

magazine • June 2013

54

“I used to have trouble just getting out of bed, but after my quick treatment, my pain is gone and I feel amazing. The procedure was even covered by my insurance!”

— Kat Roebuck, Lake Jackson patient

Specialist in dentistry for children from 6 months to 17 years of age Friendly, gentle and caring staff Offering Oral and I.V. Sedation Now offering reversal to dental numbness Most major insurances accepted

Cool Braces!

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Now Offering Orthodontic Services!

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From March 1st to June 8th

gallery

JUNE

ARTIST REG STARK

film

Friday, June 7

SOUND OF MUSIC (c. 1965)

Saturday, June 8

conce!

THE AMERICAN SONGBOOK:

DAYS OF

SONGS OF GERSHWIN AND PORTER

GIVEAWAYS In celebration of our first 100 — and our next 100 — issues — Fort Bend Focus is giving away a prize every day.

Post daily on our page at www.facebook.com/fortbendfocus for daily drawings to win!

Giveaways run March 1, 2013 through June 8, 2013.

Contest rules at www.fortbendfocus.com Must include email address to be eligible to win.

Friday and Saturday, June 14 & 15

CENTER FOR THE ARTS 823 3rd Street, Rosenberg 77471

at the corner of 3rd and Avenue G, just one block off Highway 90A

theimperial.org 281.277.7444 Gorgeous Hill Country Home Site Waterfront Lot in Comal County Just 20 minutes from San Antonio and minutes from the Guadalupe River in Spring Branch, this 1.72 acre lot is your Hill Country dream come true!

Amazing views on the hillside lot that features a meadow with waterfront along Spring Creek, The Crossing at Spring Creek, an acreage home site community, is the perfect place to build your Hill Country getaway. The community offers all underground utilities, paved, county maintained roads, plus a beautiful 10+ acre owners-only park with scenic hiking trails, a swimming pool and pavilion and a playground. $89,000

For Sale By Owner

281.728.1204 fort bend

magazine • June 2013

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re

at e h t

e e m o h eleas DVD

R

By Nick Nicholson

Battle Earth Inception

C

onfirmation of extraterrestrial life appears on television screens across the world as a massive spacecraft breaks through the atmosphere on a crash course into the Atlantic Ocean. A young paramedic, Greg Baker, signs up to fight for his planet against the invaders. Baker joins Special Forces’ members as the squad medic as they escort a classified package by chopper over enemy territory.

When their chopper is shot down, they find themselves surrounded and outnumbered. Desperate to return to his wife’s side and haunted by nightmares, Baker find that his role in the war has quickly become much larger than he could have ever imagined. The mysterious package may be the key to turning the tide of the war, and possibly to saving all of humanity, but Baker must decide whether to protect it or sacrifice it to ensure his own survival.

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

Kurt M. Andreason, Attorney-at-Law Board Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in Estate Planning, Probate Law and Commercial Real Estate.

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

26 years experience in Texas

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B y Amy Gross

White Wine

Myths Summer vacation is here, and it is time get toasting!

Heritage Baptist Church a place to call home Schedule of Services SUNDAY Sunday School.................. 9:30am Sunday AM Worship...... 10:45am Bible Classes.................... 6:05 pm Sunday PM Worship...... 7:00 pm WEDNESDAY Bible Study....................... 7:00pm Awana Bible Clubs........... 7:00pm

For all of you out there who shy away from the refreshment of whites and pinks, I’ve got a few white wine myths and misconceptions to dispel. If you think that white wines are for lightweights and those who like sweet wines, then please read on. Are you guilty of saying – or thinking – any of the following?

Riesling is way too sweet for me Once upon a time, I thought all Rieslings were sweet, too. And then, I discovered some deliciously dry ones.

Rieslings can be sweet, dry or somewhere in between the two, which makes it a great grape for discovery.

What most Rieslings typically do have, though, is crisp acidity, that element that makes your mouth water just a touch as you take a sip. That same element is what makes them an excellent thirst-quenching summer wine and also a perfect food wine. But, don’t think you must drink Rieslings with food only. Rieslings are often great for drinking without food as well.

Pink? No way!

I don’t like white Zinfandel

Dr. Charles A. Murphy, Sr. Pastor

281-403-4994 www.hbctx.org 2223 FM 1092 Missouri City, Texas 77459

Pink wine has come a long way from what we saw in the 1980s in the United States. Just like not all Rieslings are sweet, pink wine does not mean sweet wine. Rosés can be can be bone dry or a tad sweet or absolutely sweet and fruity, but not the sweet and fruity of the past.

And, rosés have definitely stepped up in stature as winemakers have begun to craft glorious layered rosés, using blends of Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Malbec, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, Syrah, Tempranillo and yes, Zinfandel. The color is pink because the wine does not have as much skin contact with the grapes as its fort bend

magazine • June 2013

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red cousins. Rosés also typically pair well with food, due to their acidity, and they are a perfect way to enjoy the sunset.

All Chardonnays taste the same Chardonnay also has great variety when it comes to flavor. Some Chardonnays are buttery, oaky, creamy and toasty, and some are crisp and clean, letting the fruit run the show. This difference is made by either letting the wine age in oak barrels or in stainless steel.

Oak imparts the flavor of the wood onto the wine, whereas stainless steel lets the flavor of the grapes shine, resulting in a crisper, cleaner flavor. Some winemakers choose to age completely in one surface or another, whereas some may use a blend of wines aged both ways, resulting in a softer oak influence. For summer especially, I prefer Chardonnays aged in stainless for a refresher.

There are so many fantastic and refreshing white and rosé wines at every price point for you to enjoy at picnics, and parties, and even while dodging the heat by staying indoors in the air conditioning we love here in Houston.

Click on VineSleuthUncorked.com for some specific recommendations to enjoy. Cheers to a refreshing summer!

absolutely!

DELICIOUS LISTING CERTIFIED GREEN RESTAURANT RUGGLES GREEN 15903 City Walk Sugar Land Town Square, 77479 281-565-1175 www.rugglesgreen.com Ruggles Green, a locally owned and operated restaurant, offers a healthier, better tasting menu done in a sustainable way. Ruggles Green serves local, allnatural and organic menu items. They specialize in gluten-free and vegetarian options all in a family-friendly atmosphere including a gorgeous landscaped patio and a private room for special events.

Their extensive menu features salads, sandwiches, burgers, tacos, pizzas and pastas, as well as organic and biodynamic wine and beer. Relax and “un-wine” at the greenest restaurant in Texas.

Summertime Fun at The Victorian Year-round attractions and events on the Island are enjoyed by all.

The new Galveston Historic Pleasure Pier, with roller coaster and other amusement park rides.

Moody Gardens Tropical Rainforest and Aquarium pyramids.

Schlitterbahn Galveston Water Park, indoor and outdoor water park.

Got Tickets?

Historic homes to tour. Nature tours. Planes and trains museums.

Join us on Facebook

Ask about our weekly special (7 nights) from $1400.99 inclusive (room rate, fees and tax)

Stay at The Victorian in a spacious and comfortable condo suite.

One bedroom condo, with bunk beds, sleeps 4 adults and 2 children, minimum two-night stay.

Two nights (2) rates from $470.99 inclusive (room rate, fees and tax)

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Win ticket giveaways to area attractions and events!

6300 Seawall • Galveston • TX • 855.209.5641

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John Paul II Back & Bone Health Center Dr. Magdalena M. Sevilla in the same office provides chiropractic rehabilitation protocols. Dr. Magdalena has successfully treated sports injuries, plantar fasciitis, headaches and back pain. She has special interest in nutrition, personal injuries and worker compensation injuries.

Cesar A. Sevilla M.D. Board Certified, American Board of Orthopedic Surgeons. General Orthopedic Surgery. Total Joint Replacement. Children and adult fractures. Knee Arthroscopy.

Shoulder surgery. Non surgical treatment of back pain. He trained and served in US Army for more than 6 years.

Together in home like atmosphere we will bring our best of conventional and alternative medicine and do every effort to treat your condition without surgery.

Same day appointments available, most insurances accepted. Hablamos Español, Mowimy po Polsku.

15200 Southwest FWY STE 285, Sugar Land TX 77478 • 832-344-7757 • www.backandbone.com www.fortbend

.com • June 2013

59

OUT &

Houston Advertising and Marketing agency Marion Montgomery, Inc. recently unveiled their new name, MMI Agency, and showcased their new building in Downtown Houston with an Open House.

ABOUT

Laura Deraps, Kelly Leeker and Bene’ Eaton.

IN THE HEART

OF THE BEND Jeff Duncan, Daniel Cadis and David Oshman.

On April 9th, Ogle School of Hair Skin Nails in Stafford celebrated 40 Years of Excellence with a ribbon cutting, tours of their new campus and a Trend Vision fashion show.

Ale Bonilla and Melissa Hurt.

TCRN recently held a networking event at Guru Burgers & Crepes, a locally owned restaurant in Sugar Land Town Square. Guests enjoyed menu tastings and great weather on the outdoor patio.

Regina Yu, Amanda Sanchez, Michelle Merchant and John Blair.

Kendrick McCleskey and Minerra Juarez.

Deborah Perez, Kyle Atchison, Gwen Jones and Barbara Willhouse.

fort bend

Cherith Hope, Ashley Sanchez, Brittany McDonald and Vesse Brewer.

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C&C Dental in Sugar Land hosted a “Wines of the World” tasting event In April.

Guests enjoyed sampling wines from different countries, as well as some tasty appetizers while mingling.

At Dr. Shel’s Annual Mommy Makeover Luncheon, Dr. Shel and a panel of judges selected one lucky mom from Sugar Land to win a laser facial, laser hair removal package, an autographed copy of Dr. Shel’s book I Am Woman and much more.

Yvette Ingersoll and Linda Case.

David and Stacy Howdeshell.

Gina Abrams and Nicole McLemore.

Cheryl Jablon and Melissa Benson.

Teresa Cody and Tim Cashion.

Matt Krause, Katie Jepson, Shelena Lalji, Maribeth Milosevich and Dana Vogenthaler.

Maura McNealy and Debbie Elder.

Sheri Harrelson and Johanna Avila.

St. Michael’s Emergency Room recently celebrated their Grand Opening at their newly expanded Sugar Land location on Highway 6 and US 59.

Brian Orsak, Pete Olson and Shannon Orsak showed off the Harley Davidson themed treatment room at the Grand Opening event.

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OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART

Pet lovers gathered for the Grand Opening of Texas Direct Auto’s Dog Park in Meadows Place. Families enjoyed hot dogs for lunch while their furry friends munched on dog treats compliments of Texas Direct Auto.

Nemo Nguyen and Frappe.

OF THE BEND

Rachel Cochran and Laurie Breimayer.

Child Advocates of Fort Bend recently held a Gala Sponsor Party at the home of Pat and Brad Somers to recognize and thank their Gala sponsors.

Pam Collins and Lisa Soland.

Ruth Anne Mefford and Jim McClellan.

Albert and Marilyn Glover.

Lisa Moore, Mary and Carl Favre with Brad and Pat Somers.

fort bend

Irene Wisner, Seema Sanghi, Shefali Jhaveri and Satin Sanghi.

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absolutely! focus media intern Bunty Keo, a graphic design student at Houston Community College, recently showcased his student portfolio at West Loop Auditorium along with his colleagues. The absolutely! focus media Art Department team attended to show their support.

Pim Ormrod and Carolyn Tan.

Sharon Hendry, Bunty Keo and Grace Belleza.

Chris Hernandez and Bunty Keo.

Cure & Co., a cancer wellness boutique and studio spa, hosted a grand opening event to showcase their services. From swimsuits to skin care, Cure & Co. has it all for cancer patients and survivors.

Sasha Klein and Francesca Kling.

Gail Parker and Dorothy Gibbons.

Wade and Sasha Klein, Irma Klink, Nancy and Pete Olson.

Martha Turner Properties agents, staff, families and friends rode in the BP MS 150 bicycle race from Houston to Austin on April 20th and 21st. The BP MS 150 is a two-day fundraising cycling ride organized by the National MS Society: Lone Star and is the largest event of its kind in North America. “It was a blast,” said Ashton Martini, team captain. “We’re going to do it again next year. “ Judy Cohen, Mary Ann Piamonte, Ashton Martini, Donna Bigby, Kevin Stokes, Sherry Folsom, Mike McFarland, Javier Gautier, Michael McFarland, Linda Brewer, Myrna Fair, Greg Fair, Angie Villarreal and Gary Ramsey.

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By Steve Kursar

absolutely!

AUTO REVIEW

LEXUS LS460

T

he Lexus LS has been the flagship of the Lexus brand since its introduction. As a luxury vehicle, it has tended to conduct its business in a modest fashion in comparison to its more showy competitors. Relying on quality instead of flash has been the way of the LS. Well, that was then, and this is now. The 2013 Lexus LS460 is ready to turn heads on the highway, as well as the country club, because style is in, and humility is out.

Back in 1989, when Lexus came into being in the US market, the LS was its very first model. It was definitely subdued in the styling department although the fit and finish was superb and the engineering quality second to none. I bet that you’ll find a lot more 90’s era Lexus LSs on the road than its German competitors. And yet, the Lexus LS, although it has its legion of diehard fans, doesn’t garner the respect it deserves among car aficionados. Granted, it isn’t as exciting to drive as some of its European counterparts, but the build quality continues to amaze. fort bend

The first thing you’ll notice with the new 2013 Lexus LS is the aggressive front fascia with its bold new Lexus styling that’s migrated across the Lexus brand. Bright LED lighting makes a point of highlighting the sharp angles in the grill. This car can no longer hide in the shadows.

The interior continues to be one of the best in the luxury segment with luscious leather and real wood. On the technology side, the LS features the Remote Touch system, which allows you to control many vehicle systems (climate, audio, phone controls, navigation, etc) with a joystick located within easy reach on the center console. This is one high-tech feature that’s easy to master.

The 2013 Lexus LS460 is powered by a 386 hp, 4.6-liter V8 that delivers EPA-estimated fuel economy of 16 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. Mated to an eight speed automatic transmission, the LS will get you from zero to 60 mph in just under five and a half seconds. With a starting MSRP of $71,990, the LS460 is a veritable steal compared to other cars in the luxury segment. The F Sport Performance Package will bump up the price about another $10,000 and will give you a much better feel of the road.

Either way, hiding in plain sight is no longer an option.

Follow Steve Kursur at KursarOnCars.blogspot.com.

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Excitement was in the air as 31 charities and numerous sponsors and volunteers gathered at Classic Chevrolet when Fort Bend Cares presented grants totaling $155,000, which brought the organization to a total of $1 million plus given. Now entering its ninth year, Fort Bend Cares continues to make a powerful impact on the disadvantaged children and youth of Fort Bend County.

To date, Fort Bend Cares has distributed approximately $1,050,000 in designated grants. The grant applications are evaluated and put through rigorous analysis by a group of local community volunteers who serve on the grant committee. Board of Trustees Chair Rick Conley said, “The grant committee has the deep appreciation of our Board.

Reaching one million dollars in our relatively short history is a milestone that we celebrate and thank the many volunteers, supporters and sponsors that helped get us to this point. Now, on to the next million dollars!”

The highlight of the event came when Dr. Robert McClendon presented the newly instituted Fort Bend Cares Founder’s Grant named after the co-founders Dr. Robert McClendon and The Honorable Jim Rice. This grant was presented to Knowledge First Empowerment Center, an organization that provides academic services, tutoring and after school programs. During his presentation of the Founders Grant, Dr. McClendon praised Knowledge First Empowerment Center for the wonderful impact that the founders of this organization have already made on the youth of Fort Bend County and challenged them to use the proceeds from this grant to continue their fine work.

“We are thrilled to be able to support so many dedicated organizations that are doing valuable work in Fort Bend County,” said Laura Richard, Executive Director. “The people and businesses in this community recognize the needs of children and they give generously.”

Visit www.fortbendcares.org. for a list of grant recipients and more information on Fort Bend Cares.

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MEDICAL FOCUS

Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Opens New Sports Medicine Fellowship Program Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas (MOST) and Methodist Sugar Land Hospital are now offering an accredited primary care sports medicine fellowship program, designed to provide new physicians with the in-depth training needed to care for today’s athlete. The program will begin this year with one fellow and is expected to grow in the future, said Dr. David Braunreiter, board certified primary care sports medicine specialist, who will manage the fellowship David Braunreiter, M.D. for MOST. Primary care sports medicine is a rapidly growing specialty, driven by the advance of highly competitive youth sports and an increase in the number of adults participating in physically demanding activities such as running, swimming, skiing and more. “The need for sports medicine has grown beyond its roots in professional and college athletics,” said Dr. Braunreiter. “Primary care sports medicine physicians provide much more than orthopedic injury management, which is what most people think of when

they hear ‘sports medicine.’ In addition to orthopedic injury management, primary care sports medicine physicians are also involved in the management of a wide range of medical conditions as they pertain to the athletic environment, including concussions, asthma, blood pressure, diabetes, epilepsy, illness/infection and overall safety of participation. Our fellowship program will provide advanced training – beyond the regular medical training primary care physicians receive – to equip our trainees with knowledge needed to help active and athletic individuals recover from medical conditions and injuries and participate in good health.”

In addition to providing specialized training to participants, the fellowship program will enable MOST to extend its already extensive sports medicine services.

“The fellowship program will give us additional resources to see patients on a regular basis as well as improve our community outreach,” said Dr. Braunreiter. “For example, our fellow could conduct educational seminars on relevant topics, provide medical coverage for tournaments, games and practices, handle pre-participation physicals and even conduct field research.”

Dr. Braunreiter has directed sports

medicine fellowship programs twice before, and he is excited about the opportunity to do so again on behalf of MOST and Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

The program at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital joins a similar fellowship program started recently at Methodist Willowbrook Hospital. Participants in both programs will work with physicians and orthopedic surgeons throughout Houston in treating all level of athletes, and will be involved in hands-on learning in training rooms and on the sidelines for a wide range of high school, college and professional sports teams.

“It’s important to remember that our fellows will already have completed fellowships in their primary specialty, so they are physicians who are undergoing additional training to improve their knowledge of the sports medicine specialty,” said Dr. Braunreiter. “MOST has highly experienced and skilled physicians with a wide range of sports medicine expertise, and working with them will be an extremely valuable experience for our fellows, which in turn will translate into even better care for patients.”

For an appointment with Dr. Braunreiter, or one of the MOST physicians, call 281-494-MOST (6678).

Dr. Shirley Penkar Joins Southwest OB/GYN Southwest OB / GYN is pleased to announce the addition of Dr. Shirley Penkar. Penkar is a Houston native, having grown up in The Woodlands. Her interest in science led her to attend college at Rice University where she obtained a B.A. in Biology, as well as in Economics.

She then went on to receive her medical degree from The University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in Dallas.

Penkar completed her residency training at Parkland Hospital/UT Southwestern in Dallas, one of the busiest ob-

stetrical programs in the country; the hospital performs fifteen thousand deliveries each year. She has received extensive training in high risk obstetrics and also has an interShirley Penkar, M.D. est in minimally invasive surgery.

Penkar received the Three Star award fort bend

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and the Excellence in Colposcopy award during her chief year of residency. She later served one year as Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at UT Southwestern.

Penkar will be practicing both obstetrics and gynecology when she starts seeing patients on August 19th, and she is currently accepting appointments.

For more information on Southwest OB/GYN or to schedule an appointment, visit www.swobgy.com or call 713-774-5131.

Dr. Vincent Wang Returns Home to Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Dr. Vincent Wang has joined the staff at Texas Spine and Neurosurgery Center, located on the campus of Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. He will also serve on the medical staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

Dr. Wang joins Methodist Sugar Land Hospital from the University of California San Francisco, where he was an assistant clinical professor in neurological surgery. His major clinical focus is spinal surgery and the use of minimally invasive techniques for complex surgical cases.

Dr. Wang has performed numerous spinal reconstruction surgeries on patients with spinal cord/nerve compression and spinal instability due to tumor, infection, trauma and degenerative causes.

Dr. Wang grew up in Sugar Land and is a graduate of Clements High School. He

earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Houston and his M.D. and Ph.D. from Baylor College of Medicine. He was a member of the Alpha Omega Medical Honor SoVincent Wang , M.D. ciety and received multiple awards, including the National Research Service Award. After medical school, he performed his residency training at University of California San Francisco and was later named to the school’s teaching staff. He also had an active clinical practice focusing on spine and neurotrauma in San Francisco.

The addition of Dr. Wang will support

Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s goal in continuing to expand their neuroscience program and enable the hospital to serve more patients in Fort Bend and surrounding counties. “Dr. Wang is an excellent physician and surgeon with a clinical background and patient-oriented approach that fit perfectly with our philosophy,” said Dr. Rajesh Bindal, founder of Texas Spine and Neurosurgery Center and medical director of the Methodist Sugar Land Neuroscience Center. “He will play a major role in the growth of our spine care and neurosurgery practice here as we continue to expand our capabilities. We welcome Dr. Wang back to Sugar Land.”

To make an appointment with Dr. Wang or another Methodist Sugar Land Hospital physician, visit MethodistSugarLand.com or call 281-274-7500.

MD Anderson in Sugar Land Brings Gynecologic Oncology to Community Michael Bevers, M.D., and Nicole Fleming, M.D., have joined The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center’s Regional Care Center in Sugar Land, bringing the area a new level of expertise for treating gynecologic cancers.

Bevers and Fleming, both gynecologic oncologists, lead a multidisciplinary team in Sugar Land. The collaborative and specialized team approach ensures that each patient receives the highest level of cancer care from physicians and advanced practice nurses who specialize in uterine, endometrial and ovarian cancers, and rare vaginal and vulvar cancers. Gynecologic oncologists are unique not only because of the cancers they treat, but because they perform surgery as well as oversee chemotherapy or other therapies.

Bevers, Fleming and the team offer a range of minimally invasive procedures, including robotic-assisted laparoscopy, for appropriate patients with cervical, endometrial and early-stage ovarian cancers. This surgical innovation has revolutionized care for many patients

Michael Bevers, M.D.

Nicole Fleming, M.D.

with gynecologic malignancies while improving quality of life, and is now available to more patients.

“We care for patients with many types of gynecologic cancer, as well as patients with pre-invasive disease. Further, we are available to provide a second opinion on suspected cancers,” Bevers said. “We believe that the patient is an important member of her care team, and we work to ensure that she and her family fully understand her treatment plan.”

Fleming added, “Until now, women in this community have not had access to the type of multidisciplinary care we provide. Our team approach to cancer care www.fortbend

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allows us to help our patients through their initial diagnosis, surgery and additional therapies that follow, including access to clinical trials. We continue their care with close surveillance up to several years after their initial diagnosis. We are involved in every aspect of their cancer care.”

As MD Anderson faculty members, Bevers and Fleming also hold academic positions in the Department of Gynecologic Oncology. They are part of a team of five specialized surgeons now at the Sugar Land Regional Care Center. They join John Papadopoulos, M.D., who specializes in genitourinary surgery, Mark Zafereo, M.D., who specializes in head and neck surgery, and Susan Hoover, M.D. who focuses on breast surgery.

Bevers also leads a gynecologic oncology team at the MD Anderson Regional Care Center in Katy.

The Sugar Land center is among four regional care centers bringing MD Anderson’s standard of care into the surrounding Houston community. It is located on the campus of St. Luke Hospital’s Sugar Land campus.

MEDICAL FOCUS

Exceptional Senior Living Starts Here In Fort Bend County, Brookdale® provides a continuum of care that’s been making a difference in the lives of seniors for more than a decade. At The Terrace at First Colony and The Hampton Meadows Place, you’ll find elegant senior living solutions designed for all the places you’d still like to go.

Independent Living | The Terrace at First Colony Independent Living enables seniors to trade the burdens of home maintenance for an active lifestyle that offers Exceptional Experiences Every DaySM. Residents enjoy the freedom to live life as they choose, while we take care of everything they need.

Assisted Living | The Hampton Meadows Place Designed for those who require some help with routine activities of daily living, Assisted Living offers an ideal blend of convenience and support, enabling us to deliver personalized care with Respect for Individual PreferencesSM. Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care | The Hampton Meadows Place Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care provides specialized accommodations and programs designed for those with memory disorders. Our highly trained associates implement a four-step

plan each day to help residents achieve Daily Moments of SuccessSM. In addition to multiple lifestyle and care options, residents at every level enjoy fabulous amenities, such as restaurant-style dining, weekly housekeeping, scheduled transportation, on-site salon services and transferrable community fees. What’s more, we offer a variety of award-winning programs to enrich residents’ dayto-day quality of life.

Come see what our exceptional blend of hospitality, service and care means for you. Call or visit today to learn more. For The Hampton Meadows Place, call (281) 240-1707. For The Terrace at First Colony, call (281) 903-2000 or visit brookdale. com for information on all Brookdale communities.

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a time to REMEMBER 2013 Fort Bend Independent School District Graduates You’ve ou’ve worked hard to get to this point. The place where you feel as if your life might really begin.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t come back and visit from time to time.

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By Lauren Benoit

High School HOT SHOT Briana LaChapelle: Having a Ball!

Photo courtesy of Portrait Innovations

B

riana LaChapelle is a senior at Fort Bend Christian Academy. A devoted basketball player and student, Briana plays hard on the court and works hard in the classroom. She has left her indelible impact on Fort Bend Christian Academy by setting multiple school records on the basketball court.

Briana’s impact on the Lady Eagles Basketball team has been tremendous. She holds the school record for career steals, as well as career assists, and she ranks third on the school’s scoring list in both points and rebounds. This year, Briana made first team All-State meaning that she is one of the top 10 female players in the state of Texas.

As a senior, Briana could not imagine a better final season as a Lady Eagle. The Lady Eagles went 41-4 for the season and were the state runner’s up, claiming the title as the second best team in the state.

The Lady Eagles were proud winners of the District Championship, Bi-District Championship, Area Championship and Regional Championship. For the majority of the season, the Lady Eagles were undefeated and won their first 39 games of the season. “It hurt to lose that 40th game,” said Briana. “But the success that we had during the season made up for it and playing for the State Championship Title was a good way to end my last season.”

Throughout her high school career, Briana has stood out as a talented player. She has earned first

Briana

team All-District titles since her sophomore year and was ranked on the second team All-State roster as a junior.

As both a junior and a senior, she has been awarded the Defensive Player of the Year for her team, as well as the Coaches award for her sophomore, junior and senior year.

Briana’s basketball accolades are numerous, and her love of the game is apparent. Briana has been playing basketball since she was four and has played the position of point guard and shooting guard. For her freshman, sophomore and junior year, Briana played the position of point guard and was excited to finally be able to play shooting guard during her senior year. “A point guard has to get the ball up the court to allow the shooting guard to make a shot,” said Briana. “Everything is on you as a point guard, and you need to know what you are doing to be an effective point guard.”

During her four years of high school, Briana faced some challenges in her basketball career. In four years, she moved schools and had three different basketball coaches.

For her freshman year, Briana went to Elkins High School and played on the freshman team that won the District Championship. When Briana moved back to Fort Bend Christian Academy for her sophomore year, the team was going through some growing pains and greatly benefited from Briana’s skill on the court. Jon Froelich, the team’s coach, began coaching the team the following year and helped the team make it to the state playoffs during her junior year.

After her successful run as a basketball player in high school, Briana would like to major in kinesiology and become a trainer in the NBA or start her own physical therapy practice. “I realized that I didn’t want to play basketball professionally, but I still wanted to participate in the sport,” said Briana. “Therefore, being a trainer or having a physical therapy practice is my dream.” She will be attending McCook Community College in Nebraska in the fall to fulfill her dream.

Briana graduated at the top of her senior class with a 4.67 grade point average out of a possible 5.0 grade point average. At McCook, Briana will surely make a positive impact as she did at Fort Bend Christian Academy.

With her humbleness, caring ways and work ethic, Briana will achieve all of her dreams. Good luck, Briana!

“Being a trainer or having a physical therapy practice is my dream.”

- Briana LaChapelle fort bend

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S DIRECT AU A X

June

Emily Pfeiffer

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Emily Pfeiffer Congratulations to Emily Pfeiffer, a senior at Clements High School, for being selected as Texas Direct Auto’s “Scholarship Star” for June! Jessica DeMarr, Director of Business Development, presents the $1000 Scholarship. At Clements High School, Emily is a member of National Honor Society and holds leadership positions as Head Drum Major of Clements High School Marching Band and in Peer Assistance and Leadership Services (PALS).

She has received numerous awards for academic and leadership achievements including the John Wooden Award for Outstanding Leadership and Girl Scout Gold Award. Emily volunteers her time with organizations including Child Advocates of Fort Bend County, Fort Bend County Animal Shelter, Fort Bend ISD Shared Dreams and Habitat for Humanity.

After high school, Emily plans to attend Texas A&M University to pursue a degree in Human Resources.

Emily was selected as part of Texas Direct Auto’s commitment to educational excellence through the “Scholarship Stars” program. Application details are listed at www.fortbendfocus.com.

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June 2013 Winner “Cute”

By Bob Calbert

Congratulations Bob, you’ve earned a $50 gift certificate to a restaurant!

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

A WINNER EVERY MONTH Each month’s winner receives a $50 gift certificate to a restaurant and the winning photo will be published in our magazine. To claim your prize, call Sarah at 281-690-4242. Runner-up photos may be published in our “Readers’ Photo Album.”

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

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

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

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magazine • June 2013

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In Print • Online • In Person

We’re absolutely enthusiastic over community magazines. They allow us to come into your homes and focus on what’s important to you – your community.

So what’s the power of community magazines? They’re absolutely free, they’re absolutely timely, and they’re absolutely available 24/7 when you want to read them. And best of all, they are delivered right to your door.

Whether you live in greater Fort Bend, Katy, Me m o r i a l o r B r a z o s , absolutely! focus media brings you the power of print – absolutely free, focused on people, places and happenings – focused on where you live.

Reading your community magazine – it’s easier than a click.

absolutely! focus media 281.690.4242 | www.absolutelyfocusmedia.com

EVENTS June 1st – 27th Fort Bend Theatre Presents The Little Mermaid

June 1st, 8 – Noon Garage Sale

Don’t miss Fort Bend Theatre’s production of Disney’s beloved classic, showing Tuesdays through Thursdays at 10 am and Saturdays and Sundays at 3 pm. For tickets, visit www.fortbendtheatre.com.

Fort Bend County Libraries Summer Reading Clubs Register at any Fort Bend County library or at www.fortbend.lib.tx.us. Call 281-341-2677.

“Dig into Reading” for Children The Children’s Summer Reading Club encourages children from infancy through elementary school to read as many books as they can and earn rewards. There is no charge to join.

"Beneath the Surface" for Young Adults The Young Adult Summer Reading Club is free to youth going into sixth grade or higher. Earn rewards based on the total number of hours logged. Free activities from game days to movie nights are also planned.

Adult Summer Reading Club Adults of all ages are invited to read or listen to books throughout the summer. Weekly drawings will take place at each branch for readers who record their reading activity.

June 1st, 8 – 11 am Kids Fish

Browse for treasures at 1522 Texas Parkway in Missouri City. All proceeds benefit Missouri City Green and the Mayor’s Youth Commission, and payments of cash or checks will be accepted.

Booth spaces can be purchased for $20 at the Recreation & Tennis Center. Call 281-403-8633 or email eghee@missouricitytx.gov.

June 10th, 6 – 7 pm Landscape Gardening in the Texas Heat

Enjoy a morning of fishing for ages 16 and under at Missouri City Community Park, located at 1700 Glenn Lakes Lane.

Bait and fishing equipment will be provided as well as free snacks. All fish caught can be measured for size.

Call 281-403-8367 or visit www.missouricitytx.gov.

Fort Bend County Master Gardener Tricia Bradbury will discuss gardening in Texas at Mamie George Branch Library, located at 320 Dulles Avenue in Stafford. The program is free and open to the public. Call 281-238-2880.

June 1st, 6 – 9 pm Daddy and Daughter Date Night

June 11th, 8 am – 9:30 am State of Higher Education 2013

Join Missouri City Ballet for dinner and a movie at Laeral Dance Academy, located at 7746 Hwy 6 in Missouri City. The evening will also feature a DJ dance, photo booth, keepsake craft and more. Tickets are $50 per couple and $20 for each additional ticket. All proceeds benefit the 2013 season for Missouri City Ballet. Call 832-387-MCB1 or visit www.missouricityballet.org.

Hear key speakers Dr. Fena Garza, President Houston Community College-Southwest; Betty McCrohan, President Wharton County Junior College; Richard A. Phillips, Associate Vice Chancellor/Associate Vice President University of Houston Sugar Land and Dr. Elton Stuckly, President Texas State Technical College Waco at Sweetwater Country Club, located at 4400 Palm Royale Boulevard in Sugar Land. To register, visit www.fortbendchamber.com/events or call 281-566-2152.

June 15th – 16th, 8 am Texas Amateur Athletic Federation (T.A.A.F.) Tennis Tournament

Presented By:

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECH Water Treatment Specialists

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

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This Region 1 Tournament features events for all ages at Recreation & Tennis Center, located at 2701 Cypress Point Drive in Missouri City. Participants must pre-register. Call 281-403-8629 or email bbarker008@gmail.com.

EVENTS June 22nd, 6 – 9 pm Professionals Appreciation and Vendor Blender Event

SUGAR LAND TOWN SQUARE

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

All business professionals are welcome to an evening of live entertainment, raffle and door prizes, chicken and waffles and networking at Urban Café, located at 1110 Fm 2234 Road in Stafford. The event will benefit the National Breast Cancer Foundation Inc. For tickets, visit www.vendor-blender-zvents.eventbrite.com.

www.sugarlandtownsquare.com Call 281.313.SLTS

Paradise on the Plaza

June 27th, 7 – 8 pm Origami Demonstration

June 23rd, 7 am Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Triathlon This short sprint triathlon is for ages 10 to 80 with many first-timers.

Participants will begin with a 300-meter dualstart pool swim followed by a 10-mile bike ride and a three-mile run. Call 281-242-7700 or visit www.slfinishlinesports.com.

June 27th, 3 pm Black-Light Puppet Workshop for Teens Master puppeteer Jean Kuecher

First Colony Branch Library, located at 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land, will host a free marionette workshop for teens in grades 6 and up. Master puppeteer Jean Kuecher will show students how to make their own 3D hand puppet.

Reservations are required. Call 281-238-2815 or visit www.fortbend.lib.tx.us.

June 27th, 11:30 am – 1 pm 12th Annual Flo Berkman Awards Luncheon The 12th Annual Flo Berkman Awards Luncheon honors those who have supported the Rainbow Room’s mission to provide for abused and neglected children and adults in Fort Bend County.

Call 832-451-2883 or visit www.fbrr.org.

Fort Bend County Libraries’ University Branch presents “Paper with a Twist” in the Small Meeting Room of the library, located at 14010 University Blvd in Sugar Land. Learn how to make whimsical shapes such as a leaping frog, a flying crane or even a blade of grass! Hear about the history of origami, and see other origami creations on display. This class is for older teens and adults.

Call 281-633-5100.

June 28th – 30th Weekend to Remember® Marriage Getaway

Giving Spirits Concert Series Friday, June 7th 7:30 – 9:30 pm

Sugar Land Superstar Presented

by David Taylor Cadillac Saturday, June 8th 7 – 9:30 pm

Opry on the Square Friday, June 14th 7:30 – 9:30 pm

A series of speakers will show you how to pursue a marriage that really works through stories of their own breakthroughs and blunders. The getaway takes place at Sugar Land Marriott Town Square and will leave you with encouragement, hope and practical tools to build and grow your relationship. To register, visit www.familylife.com/weekend.

June 29th, 9 am – 12 pm Tune Up for Life – Men’s Health Event Rev up your engines and join Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital as they team up with the Sugar Land Skeeters and Classic Chevrolet to present the 3rd annual Tune up for Life, a men’s health event. Come enjoy rock ‘n roll music while viewing classic cars and tune up your body with over 20 free health screenings at Constellation Field, located at 1 Stadium Drive in Sugar Land.

To register, call 713-222-CARE or visit www.memorialhermann.org.

www.fortbend

Saturday, June 1st 7:30 – 9:30 pm

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Movie Under The Moon Saturday, June 15th 8:30 – 10:30 pm

Music in the Plaza Friday, June 21st Saturdays, June 22nd & 29th 7:30 – 9:30 pm

Dancing Under the Stars Friday, June 28th 7:30 – 9 pm

Submit calendar events at editor@fortbendfocus.com

Father’s Day

Gift Guide

GIVE DAD THE GIFT OF THICK, FULL HAIR THIS YEAR

Things We Love – Just for Dad!

Receive $100 off a Hair Regrowth package that includes a hair regrowth laser, hair boosting supplements and hair loss testing. Valid through June 30th at Dr. Shel Wellness and Medical Spa, 1437 Hwy 6, Suite 100 in Sugar Land.

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

DISCOVERY FLIGHT WITH ANSON AVIATION A $250 value starting at $120! The package includes one hour of flying time with a certificated flight instructor in a new aircraft from Anson Aviation’s modern fleet. You will take off with your instructor from Sugar Land’s convenient Regional Airport and fly the airplane yourself! Anson Aviation. Call 281-242-2555; www.ansonair.com.

RIDE IN STYLE Get Dad on the road this summer in a truck from TexasDirectAuto.com. With thousands of vehicles in stock to choose from, you’re sure to find a ride that Dad will love! Texas Direct Auto, 12053 Southwest Fwy in Stafford.

Call 281-499-8200; www.TexasDirectAuto.com.

SURPRISE DAD WITH CYCLING CLASSES Revolution Studio, Sugar Land's premier indoor cycling studio, delivers an effective full-body workout in just 50 minutes. Surprise dad with a gift card, cycling gear or Revolution Studio apparel.

Revolution Studio, 2125 Lone Star Dr. in Sugar Land Town Square.

Call 281-313-0662; www.revolution-studio.com.

BEAUTIFUL SKIN REVEALED Take 20% Off on Obagi Products for your Home Treatment Regimen. Forever Young Skin Care by Linda, Gallery of Salons, 11333 Fountain Lake Dr. in Stafford.

Call 713-269-9955; www.lindasforeveryoung.com.

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PICK SOMETHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR FOR GOOD OLE’ DAD!

SPRUCE UP DAD’S OFFICE

Give Dad a new backyard for Father’s Day! Purchase a Garden Guy gift certificate in any amount and give Dad the backyard of his dreams.

Garden Guy. Visit www.garden-guy.com or www.facebook.com/GardenGuyHouston.

This Father’s Day, give Dad a pair of elegant petrified wood bookends from the Houston Museum of Natural Science Museum Store. The polished fossilized wood resembles a geode and is heavy enough to support his many leather-bound books. Houston Museum of Natural Science.

Call 713-639-4665; www.museumstore.hmns.org.

HIGH PERFORMANCE PAMPERING The Aveda Men collection is tailored to men’s essential need for high-performance skin, scalp and hair management featuring Aveda Men Pure Performance Shampoo, Conditioner & Grooming Clay.

Salon Eben & Day Spa, 15510 Lexington Ste. G in Sugar Land.

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

GOODBYE RAZOR, HELLO LASER! In appreciation of Father’s Day, Timeless Plastic Surgery would like to offer all hairy fathers 50% off Laser Hair Removal for the month of June. Call or visit Timeless Plastic Surgery's website to schedule your appointment today!

Timeless Plastic Surgery, 1327 Lake Pointe Parkway, Suite 300 in Sugar Land.

Call 281-242-TIME (8463); www.TimelessPlasticSurgery.com.

SURPRISE YOUR DAD WITH NEW OFFICE FURNITURE Looking for office solutions?

Camperi’s mission is to provide a wide selection of high quality, functional, new and used office furniture in which you can take pride. Camperi’s Furniture, 13246 Murphy Rd. in Stafford.

Call 281-499-6900; www.camperisofficefurniture.net.

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FATHERS DAY ROLEX SPECIAL! Treat dad to a $500 cleaning, oiling and adjusted movement plus band and case polish and full appraisal ($900 value).

Offer good until June 29, 2013. Must use certificate by Sept. 30, 2013. There will be a charge for any additional parts or labor. J Loggins Jewelers, 14015 Southwest Fwy in Sugar Land.

Call 281-242-2900; www.jloggins.com.

FREEZE YOUR FAT AWAY WITH COOLSCULPTING Give Dad this clinically proven, FDA cleared, totally non-surgical treatment. All fathers receive 30% off CoolSculpting treatments throughout the month of June. Call for your free consultation!

Sugar Land Face and Body Plastic Surgery, 16926 Southwest Freeway in Sugar Land.

Call 281-313-0555; www.BeautyBecomesYou.com.

HEALTHY HAIR FOR DAD

CELEBRATE FATHER’S DAY

FDA approved with patented laser technology to help you grow stronger, healthier hair. Clinical strength, at-home convenience.

Royal Oaks Medical Spa N Skin Care Clinic, 1400 Creekway Dr, Ste 401A in Sugar Land.

Call 832-886-4256; www.royal-oaks-medical-spa.com.

Come celebrate Father's Day on Saturday, June 15th at 9:30 am with a 45-minute DEFINE revolution class that is rhythm-based to some of his favorite bands including ZZ Top, The Rolling Stones, Aerosmith and many more. DEFINE Body & Mind.

Register at www.definebody.com or sugarland@definebody.com.

LOVE YOUR EYEWEAR Providing the best eyewear and service available, Advanced Eyewear’s optician is trained in all aspects of frame and lens choices, including the latest in breakthrough technology, to provide you with the best possible vision and meet your fashion and lifestyle needs. Advance Eyewear, 736 Hwy. 6 S, Ste 101 in Sugar Land. Call 281-240-0810.

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MAKE DAD’S HEART RACE Wherever great sports cars gather, Corvette is front and center.

Corvette has carved a permanent niche into the sports car landscape, yet it defines state-of-the-art technology and modern efficiency. Classic Chevrolet of Sugar Land, 13115 Southwest Fwy at Hwy 90A. Call 281-491-9000; www.classicchevysugarland.com.

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Is Growing - Come Grow With Us!

Win a set of four tickets to a Sugar Land Skeeters Game!

Like us on Facebook to join our Top Fan Contest! facebook.com/TCRNHouston

WANTED: Summer Interns

LEARN

We are looking for High School Seniors or College students who want to learn about the exciting world of magazine publishing. Class credit available.

• Writing • Editing • Developing Story Ideas • Event Planning • Promotion • Email Marketing

Contact Patti Parish-Kaminski editor@fortbendfocus.com

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By Alisa Murray

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

Living the Sweet Life: Go ahead and RAOK them!

T

he past few weeks have been horrific. From Stony Brook to the bombings in Boston, to the recovered kidnapped women held against their will for years and years, it seems that everywhere we have really bad people amongst us. Here are some facts according to me: I figure at least 20% of our population has some sort of mental illness, but about 5% are certifiably crazy. Crazy does not mean just plain mean and evil; that’s something else. There are plenty of people we all know who are a little kooky, and their kookiness makes them fun to be around.

Mean and evil is different. Mean and evil is that kid in Toy Story who figured out a way to burn his toys with a magnifying glass and the sun. Or, it’s the sinister mind of someone who just hates because…well, that is the way they are built. There will always be in every group some individuals who are just plain mean.

Nana used to say, as did Granny, “Two wrongs don’t make a right.” This little piece of worldly wisdom could have come in handy as I watched the TV. However, I, like most of you, got caught up in the display of stupidity and found myself getting angrier and angrier and angrier. What I wanted to do was to write on my blog a public display of distaste for terrorism and what can be done to abolish it in its entirety from my – not YOUR – country. I spent a good half a day just plain crazy with hate and found myself plotting ways to lash back verbally at the random act of senselessness that I had witnessed here, in what I wanted to believe, if not for myself but for the sake of my children, was and still is a safe place to live. And then, I spoke to Father Mike. Yes, Father Mike and I had a few words and what he said sent

Alisa and her RAOK (Random Acts Of Kindness) card.

me spinning back to my center space.

Funny how Godly people will always do that.

“You see God was there in Boston.”

Yes, that is what I heard Father Mike say. As I listened to him, I thought, “You are not making any sense!” As Father explained it, “The people who ran to help comfort those who had been injured had heard God’s voice. They were acting through his will to help, to support, to be kind.” They were not responding with another wrong. We spoke further about it, and I remembered Jesus. You know how he was betrayed by Judas and in the end, Judas hung himself. What I most liked was he “got it” in the end without Jesus having to do a thing, and I stopped hating. “It isn’t very becoming” anyway, as Nana would also say.

I have a RAOK card. This stands for Random Acts Of Kindness. Father Mike actually issues these out to us, and we carry them wherever we go. My norm is not to particularly pass them back out because often times, I think I will need to give it to someone who can learn a les-

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son from it. Then, there are the beneficiaries of my RAOK that wouldn’t know what to do with it if I were to give it to them anyway, but they need me none the less. Take for example that squirrel scampering across Highway 6 this week. No, he was not a lucky squirrel.

I RAOK chose not hit the crazy beast as he went through six lanes of traffic to get to what…another pecan tree? Same was true of a not so smart little bird who, for whatever reason, has chosen the busiest door on my house to build her nest and must fly out every day when I open it no less than 50 times! I shall not do anything less than to accommodate her desire to hatch her babies there this spring.

In fact, I find it quite an honor that she actually chose me to share that moment with. Then there was that teacher whose tone in her email got a little too sassy for me, and I chose to RAOK her by biting my tongue and being kind.

So, I have been holding my RAOK card for a while silently helping those who, in my mind, might not be able to help themselves. I am issuing it out right now though. I give my RAOK card to all those people in our society who make me feel real uneasy. I give it to the now dead mother of that boy who stormed into the school and murdered those babies. I give it to Judas because I have always secretly hated him for betraying my Lord, and I give it to those terrorists who want everything dead because they are most definitely in the 5% or the 20% of the human race. I feel much better now. How about you?

Take Care of YOU … and OTHERS!

BACK PAIN? NECK PAIN? The Spine Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is the comprehensive, coordinated option for you in Fort Bend County.

For back and neck pain, there’s only one premier choice — Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Spine Center. Whether you’ve had pain for just a few days or several long years, you’ll find everything you need to diagnose and treat your condition in a convenient location, with access to premier spine specialists and a complete range of treatment options.

Getting started is easy. We will guide you through a customized treatment plan, with expedited access to world-class neurologists, neurosurgeons, orthopedic spine surgeons and interventional pain specialists.

Plus, physical therapy, occupational/hand therapy, and the most advanced imaging and surgical technologies in the world are available on-site.

Stop enduring pain. Call or email today and begin your personal treatment plan. 281-313-BACK (2225) or SpineCenter@tmhs.org.

16655 Southwest Freeway • Sugar Land, Texas 77479 281-313-BACK (2225) • MethodistSugarLand.com

facebook.com/MethodistSugarLand @MethodistSLHosp