Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes Oct 2015

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OCTOBER 2015

Seasonal Events CREEPY AND COOL! Professional Resources

PHOTO BY COLEMAN LOCKE

Real People, Real Homes, Real Style‌Real Fort Bend Living www.fortbendlifestylesandhomes.com

10707 Corporate Dr #170 Stafford, TX 77477-4092

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Howdy partner.

Texas Children’s is ranked fourth in the nation and best in the southwest. Lucky for you, we’re right here in Fort Bend.

Our Health Centers and Texas Children’s Pediatrics practices offer convenient access to expert pediatricians, subspecialists and therapeutic and diagnostic services. At Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus, your child can get emergency services at a hospital 100% dedicated to pediatric care.

Whenever you need us, remember, we’re just down the way.

For maps and information, visit texaschildrens.org/fortbend.

Sugar Land Health Center

15400 Southwest Fwy., Ste. 200 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-494-7010

Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus 18200 Katy Freeway Houston, TX 77094 832-227-1000

©2014 Texas Children’s Hospital. All rights reserved. Texas Children’s Hospital is the only children’s hospital in Texas on U.S.News & World Report’s 2014-2015 Honor Roll. MPR1052_082614

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Smile Without Fear.

Actual SmileTexas Patients

Make 2015 The Year You Get The Smile You Deserve.

Two Visit Smile Makeover.

Smile Texas™ was created over a decade ago to offer

a one-stop solution for those in search of a healthy, beautiful smile. We deliver state-of-the-art cosmetic and implant GHQWLVWU\ LQ D VLQJOH RIĂ€FH 7KLV DOORZV XV WR FRUUHFW DQ\ smile imperfection from staining, crooked teeth, gaps and spaces, or chipped teeth. For the most severe conditions, when natural teeth cannot be saved, Dr. Kline offers his DPD]LQJ 7HHWK E\ 7RQLJKW ÂŒ VROXWLRQ 7KLV SURFHGXUH allows Dr. Kline to place dental implants and an entire set RI QHZ Ă€[HG LQ SODFH WHHWK in just one procedure.

Recovery time is minimal and the results look and feel completely natural.

Over the years, many of our guests have told us that Dr. Bret Davis they had simply stopped smiling due to the condition Dr. Rick L. Kline of their teeth. We helped Founder of SmileTexas them conquer their fear and achieve a new smile that allows them to live life to the fullest.

Upper/Lower Teeth-by-Tonight!™

• Providing solutions for teeth that are chipped, stained, uneven, have gaps or are missing through the use of cosmetic, implant, and sedation dentistry. • Thousands of Smile Makeovers (cosmetic or implant cases) completed. • Lost teeth replaced with Teeth-by-Tonight!™ Dental Implants and replacement teeth in one procedure for full upper or lower smile replacement. • Advanced sedation alternatives allow us to complete many treatments in one visit. • All-inclusive fees quoted (no surprises!). • Last Time You Pay policy that provides for the protection of cosmetic restorations even in the event of accident. • Saturday Consultation Appointments.

Call Today To Schedule Your Complimentary Consultation:

281.265.SMILE (7645)

SmileTexas.com Services provided by Texas licensed general dentists. Actual treatment results may vary.

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The barn standing so simple, embraced with time past, an old dwelling full of memories that forever last.

1247 FM 359 • Richmond, TX 77406

281-341-7788

www.plantationfurniture.com

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EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE In your golden years, you should be living a lifestyle that’s nothing short of the gold standard.

Everything we do at Watercrest is designed to help you make the most out of life. With spacious multi-bedroom apartment homes and villas, health-centric programs and amenities, meals prepared by our personal chef, paved walking trails and more, you can live life the way you want. Community is calling at Watercrest at Sugar Land.

ASK ABOUT OUR MOVE-IN SPECIALS TODAY!

1-888-492-7786

SU G A R L A N D 744 Brooks Street, Sugar Land, TX 77478 watercrestsugarland.com

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SIMS LUXURY BUILDERS Presents

LAGUNA IN LAKE POINTE

Time to sell the house‌

URBAN LIVING MEETS LAKESIDE LUXE Award-winning custom homebuilder Christopher Sims presents LAGUNA, a community of nine sleek and thoughtfully designed modern townhomes featuring spacious floor plans and premium appliances, cabinetry and finishes. Walk to dining, shopping, and lakeside recreation.

LagunaSugarLand.com

281.242.7900

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TAKING A LITTLE TIME IN YOUR DAY MAY ADD YEARS TO YOUR LIFE. SO WE MAKE SCHEDULING A MAMMOGRAM EASIER. One in eight women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. And 85 percent of those women have no family history of the disease. At Houston Methodist, we know the numbers may be scary, so we’re here to help you. We offer the latest in breast cancer screening technology and encourage all women to talk with their doctor about scheduling their mammogram.

Scheduling online is easy — go to houstonmethodist.org/online-scheduling or call 281.274.7170.

Houston Methodist Sugar Land now offers 3-D mammography.

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A Hole in One. lot

SWEETWATER COUNTRY CLUB OFFERS A WHOLE LOT OF LUXURY, PERSONAL SERVICE, 36 HOLES OF GOLF, FAMILY, SOCIAL EVENTS, 22 SOCIAL CLUBS WITHIN A CLUB, ATHLETICS, BUSINESS NETWORKING WITH OVER 2,000 MEMBERS, CHILD CARE, INDOOR LAP AND OUTDOOR POOLS, AEROBICS, PILATES, YOGA, BALLROOM, BRIDGE, BRUNCH, GAMES, CAMPS, JUNIOR PROGRAMS, RACQUETBALL, HAPPY HOURS, MEETING FACILITIES, TAKE OUT OR IN-HOME CATERING, BASKETBALL, BANQUETS, INDOOR AND OUTDOOR TENNIS, MASSAGES, PARTIES, FITNESS, TOURNAMENTS, AND OTHER AMENITIES IN ONE EXCLUSIVE CLUB.

No fair weather golfers at Sweetwater!

Golf year round in the new Arnold Palmer Golf Academy!

Indoor simulator, video and indoor putting green.

For the “Hole” Country Club Experience.

SWEETWATER COUNTRY CLUB 281-980-4100

www.sweetwatercc.com

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Radiant

SMILES Actual Patient

New Smiles are Always Welcome Cosmetic | Implant | General Dentistry | Invisalign

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

Dental Implants Will Secure a Radiant Smile and is the Best Method for Tooth Replacement We offer one-stop solutions for your missing teeth. Implant placement and final restoration all done in our office for your convenience.

Keith Von Boeckmann, D.D.S. F.A.G.D., Fellow Academy General Dentistry F.I.C.O.I, Fellow International Congress of Oral Implantologists International Congress of Oral Implantologists

281-499-SMILE (7645) 7435 South Highway 6, Ste. A | Missouri City, TX

www.radiantsmilesoftexas.com

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Presented by FORT BEND JUNIOR SERVICE LEAGUE AND MEMORIAL HERMANN

Preview Night

Thursday, November 5th

6 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Market Hours

Friday, November 6th

9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Saturday, November 7th

9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Stafford Centre Performing Arts Theatre & Convention Center 10505 Cash Road in Stafford, Texas Buy your tickets online:

www.sugarplummarket.com y nniversar 15th A

Schedule your mammogram at the Sugar Plum Market.

Stop by the Memorial Hermann booth to sign up and receive a free gift!

This advertisement generously underwritten by Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes

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My Closet. My Home. My Style.

My Budget. My Life.

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Established 1987 NO PART OF THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE PUBLISHER

DIRECT-MAILED MONTHLY TO OVER 39,000 PREMIER HOMES AND BUSINESSES IN FORT BEND COUNTY Including Sugar Land, Missouri City, Richmond, Stafford Businesses and Trade Professionals (GHBA, ASID members)

facebook.com/Lifestyles.Admin fortbendlifestylesandhomes.com founder and publisher Bill and Linda Anderson

Editor Linda Vaughan Anderson editor@lifestyles-magazines.com

Office Manager Linda Peterson

Contributing Editors Cheryl Alexander • Mara Soloway Kelly Foss • Cathy Gordon • Judy Latta Dr. Lori • Denman Moody Melanie Saxton • Cindy Ziervogel

Social Editor Cari Middaugh

Photographers J. Pamela Photography, Inc.

Production Manager Michael Ogrodowicz

Graphic Designers Todd Anderson • Lettie Rudel

Account Executives Marita Pratt • Kim Zeiner Amy Barker Richards Amy Ahlbrand Robinson Tracy Ray • Joe Welch Donna Sommer • Lisa Adams

ADVERTISING INFORMATION fortbendlifestylesandhomes.com 281.240.2445 Ext. 128 REACH OUR FULL CIRCULATION: Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes Houston Lifestyles & Homes Katy/Fulshear Lifestyles & Homes The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes SUBSCRIPTIONS: $18 per year FORT BEND PUBLISHING GROUP 10707 Corporate Drive, Suite 170 • Stafford, TX 77477 Tel: 281.240.2445 ext. 128 E: editor@lifestyles-magazines.com

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| Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

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FULSHEAR Bois D Arc Lane 3/3.5 - ±3,200 sf Lone Oak Farm is an extraordinary property that backs to Bessie Creek and includes a custom home with amazing features, 2 fenced pastures, outdoor pavilion, barn with 7-stall capacity, tack room and office. The property is located within the Texas Coastal Bird Migration Path.

FULSHEAR Vernon Frost Road ±205 acres Pecan Acres Creek. This unrestricted property is a portion of the famous, Pecan Acres Ranch in the heart of “Polo Country” with over 1,000 pecan trees, rolling pastures, 10-stall barn and historic Bessie’s Creek running through it.

CIN DY BU RNS I WANT TO BE YOUR REALTOR! C B U R N S @ M A R T H AT U R N E R . C O M

Operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc.

|

281.630.8865

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Contents OCTOBER 2015

{72} Transitional Design Takes Dated Home From Drab to Sophisticated Home with a formerly dark and boring interior gets a gorgeous facelift to fit extended family’s style.

Interview by: Cheryl Alexander Photography by: Miro Dvorscak

{26}

HAPPENINGS Mark your calendar for upcoming concerts, activities, and charitable events.

{48} SCENE IN THE BEND! Parties, galas and celebrations. See what the Fort Bend County movers and shakers are doing!

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| Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

{66}

2015 SUGAR LAND SUPERSTAR WINNER The judges and the crowd make Raivyn Hearne the winner.

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CONTENTS OCTOBER FB_Layout 1 9/11/15 9:52 AM Page 24

Contents OCTOBER 2015

The Good Life {108 TRAVEL} Incredible destinations for you to experience. {110 WINE} Winning

In Store Now

Wines come in a great range of prices.

{52 DISCOVERIES} New and unique finds for your home and lifestyles. {54 BOOKS} New releases on decorating, cooking, health and more. {56 FASHION} What to wear now and a look at new styles for the upcoming season. {60 NEW AUTOS} Reviews of the GMC Canyon and Land Rover Discovery Sport.

Home Inspirations Inside &Out

More Features

{80 INTERIOR DETAILS Furniture and Interior Design Trends

{88} HOME IMPROVEMENT Your Dream Outdoor Living Space

Eclectic, modern vibe in 2015.

Trends to transform your backyard.

{86}

{90}

{62}

INTERIOR DETAIL

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Seasonal Events

RESOURCES

RESOURCES

What’s cool & creepy in Fort Bend.

Health & Well-Being {94} Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

{68}

A look at the possible concerns. {102} Low-Back Pain Conservative care may be better than painkillers.

Online Quilt Auction!

Event to raise funds for ovarian cancer research and awareness.

{112 DINING GUIDE} A listing of Fort Bend area restaurants. {118 MEMORABLE WEDDINGS} Newlyweds share their special day.

Community News

{124 BUSINESS BRIEFS} Keep up with the local business climate and its leaders.

{131 AROUND THE BEND} Community groups and people making local news.

{133 CAMPUS} Achievements and activities of area schools and students.

{100} Medical Directory {104} Family Health Resources

{107} Happy ThanksGolfing Classic November event aids homeless families.

{116} Parkway Honors AfricanAmerican Commissioner Thomas Taylor was a Civil War-era official

{117} Mad Hatter Adventure Oct. 30 Major fundraiser for Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels at Safari Texas Ranch

Columns {71} ARTS & ANTIQUES BY DR. LORI Play Dumpster or No DumpsterTM with back-to-school items. {144} Historical Stephen F. Austin brought 300 settlers to the area.

{138} Football Preview A look at some of Fort Bend’s high school football teams and players.

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| Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

{126}

Professional Resources (Real Estate, Insurance, Finance & Law)

{142} Shelter from the Storm Allen Watson makes the most of his second chance

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“An Evening with Ashley Judd” is being supported by Fort Bend Women’s Center Partners in Healing and Hope – PCCA and Balcom Agency.

For more information, call 281-344-5750 or email Anne Budill at abudill@fortbendwomenscenter.org

THE ARC COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Kick-Off hosts Bill and Lise Letendre are pictured with ‘An Evening with Ashley Judd’ event chairs, Lizzie Dragon and Marc DuPont, and representatives from event sponsor, PCCA.

“An Evening With Ashley Judd” To Mark 35 Years of Healing and Hope, Oct. 1 Acclaimed actress, activist and humanitarian Ashley Judd will be in Houston this fall for a very special event.

“An Evening with Ashley Judd” will take place on Oct. 1 at the Junior League of Houston, benefiting Fort Bend Women’s Center. This year marks 35 years of providing healing and hope to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault and their families.

Judd, who has most recently appeared in the Divergent movie series, is known for both box office hits and performances in independent films. However, when she is not making movies, she travels the world as part of her passion for public health. She is a global ambassador for Population Services International, chair of the Women’s Media Center Speech Project: Curbing Abuse, Expanding Expression and a member of the Leadership Council for the International Center for Research on Women.

Judd holds a master’s in public administration from Harvard Kennedy School. She won the Dean’s Scholar Award at Harvard Law for her paper on “Gender violence, law and social justice.” She regularly speaks on these and other social issues at international conferences and before organizations such as the United Nations.

Fort Bend Women’s Center, which was founded in 1980 as a crisis telephone line, has served over 40,000 survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault since its inception. Its current services include residential

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| Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

The Arc of Fort Bend’s webpage, aka SNEAK Community Calendar, was developed to advertise events and activities for persons with disabilities.

Anyone can browse through the community calendar. Agencies, organizations, therapy groups, etc. that serve persons with any type of disability or organizes an event or activity for persons with special needs is invited to register the company and add events to the calendar. SNEAK has the ability to handle reoccurring events, including monthly support groups or trainings.

Fundraising events are discouraged. The website is arcoffortbend.org.

FORT BEND COUNTY PANHELLENIC ALUMNAE ANNOUNCES EVENTS

Ashley Judd

and nonresidential programs; a dedicated support service for sexual assault survivors and an outreach and education program.

Speaking at the kick-off event to launch the event, Fort Bend Women’s Center Executive Director Vita Goodell said, “We are honored to have this opportunity to work with Ashley. While many people know her diverse film and television roles, they may not know her incredible track record as an advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves. I am sure that her compassion and charisma will provide our guests with a truly inspirational and memorable evening.

“Our event is a chance to restate our commitment to working to break the cycle of domestic and sexual violence. We hope this event is an opportunity for other organizations to stand with us, and the survivors we serve, against domestic violence and sexual assault. Together we can bring healing for today and hope for a future free from sexual and domestic violence.”

Fort Bend Panhellenic has announced plans for the upcoming school year and extends an invitation to all National Panhellenic Conference alumnae sorority women in the Fort Bend area to join and be a part of the excitement. For 2015-2016 upcoming events include Fine Arts Performance at Creative Dreams Outreach Center on Oct. 15, Kendra Gives Back to benefit Panhellenic Scholarship Fund on Nov. 10, Women’s Health & Nutrition Seminar in January, a social at Pinot’s Palette in February, Recruitment Workshop on March 5 and a traditional Bunco Party to finish the year. The group is “Focusing on Philanthropy” this year.

Fort Bend Panhellenic hosts two special annual events. A Scholarship Program for active collegiate sorority members and a Spring Recruitment Information Workshop for high school senior and collegiate girls and their parents. Both events directly support girls in the community.

Membership in Fort Bend Panhellenic is open to initiated alumnae of any of the 26 national sororities that make up the National Panhellenic Conference (npcwomen.org). Visit fortbendpanhellenic.org for more information.

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(L-R, front row): Lerleen Hawkins, Raleigh Bailes Sr., Margie Connolly, Dr. Steve Harris, SL Rotary President Dr. Stacy Croft, Jeff Stacy. (Middle row): Rick Smith, Laura Lavigne, Lana Huff, Pam Filip, Ward Pendleton, Chuck Chance, Bill Griffin. (Back row): Greg Pendley, Bouche Mickey, Mitch Rahim, Jeff Tallas, Trent Wayne.

Sugar Land Rotary Fall Classic Charity Fundraiser, Oct. 3 “Escape to the Rain Forest” is the theme of the third annual Fall Classic Charity Fundraiser hosted by Sugar Land Rotary and title sponsor Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land to be held on Saturday, Oct. 3 from 5:30-10:30 p.m. on the indoor tennis courts at

Sweetwater Country Club.

Guests will enjoy a happy hour sponsored

by Silver Eagle Distributors, fantastic food, fellowship, a live auction and bid board (with items including a golf package, hunting package, travel packages, sports packages

and more) and a raffle to win an eight-day package to tropical Costa Rica — hence the theme of the evening. All funds raised will support multiple Fort Bend charities and the Rotary Foundation’s international initiatives.

Don Kerstetter, owner of Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land, says, “Rotary’s annual Fall Classic is their only fundraiser... and we encourage everyone to come out for a great night that will make a difference in the lives of others!”

Each raffle ticket is $100, and also your admission to the event. Sponsorship levels range from $500 to $5,000. Rotarian and event chair Margie Connolly says, “Every dollar you bid during our auction or on our bid board will go toward a worthy cause.

Organizations we support include: Fort Bend Literacy Council, Fort Bend Women’s Center, The Arc of Fort Bend County, Boots and Badges, Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels, and more. Last year’s Fall Classic raised over $100,000, and this year’s goal is set at over $150,000!”

Visit rotaryfallclassic.org to buy a raffle ticket, purchase a sponsorship or make a donation. Raffle tickets and sponsorships are also available at Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land or from any Rotarian.

Fort Bend Boys Choir Fundraising Walk-a-thon, Oct. 3 The Fort Bend Boys Choir is gearing up for its 12th walk-a-thon! Called Walk in Concert with the Fort Bend Boys Choir, this walk-athon will be held on Saturday, Oct. 3rd at 9 a.m. in Oyster Creek Park in Sugar Land.

Participants will complete a 3-mile walk and receive a walk-a-thon T-shirt. Proceeds will help support the Fort Bend Boys Choir’s music programs, including scholarships for young boys in need.

Businesses that would like to support the Fort Bend Boys Choir can contact the office for information about becoming a sponsor for the Walk in Concert walk-a-thon. If anyone in the community would like to help through a pledge or by participating in the walk-a-thon, call the choir office at 281-2403800 for details. You can also find more information at the Choir's website, fbbctx.org, or their Facebook page.

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| Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

A group of boys from the 2010 Walk in Concert walk-a-thon.

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HOUSTON METHODIST SURGICAL ASSOCIATES

WELCOMES DR. ALI MAHMOOD Dr. Ali Mahmood is board certified in colon and rectal surgery with a focus on offering the latest and most advanced laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgical procedures.

Dr. Mahmood provides patients in Fort Bend and surrounding areas with specialized care for a range of surgery needs. His primary interest is in colon and rectal cancer, along with benign diseases such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticular disease, hemorrhoids, fissures, and pilonidal disease. Plus, he is supported by the state-of-the-art technology, resources and staff of Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

Highly respected in his field, Dr. Mahmood delivers individualized, compassionate care, ensuring each patient’s unique needs are met.

TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT, CALL 281.242.3300.

houstonmethodist.org/spg Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Campus Medical Office Building Three 16605 Southwest Freeway, Suite 430 Sugar Land, TX 77479 | 281.242.3300

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Fort Bend Education Foundation Hosts First Sugar Shindig, Oct. 9

The Sugar Shindig Honorary Committee (l-r): Max Cleaver, Kermit Spears, Christie Whitbeck, Phillys Hill, Honorary Co-Chairs Seeju and Charles Dupre, FBEF Executive Director Brenna Cosby, Steven Bassett, Nancy Porter, Long Pham and Beth Martinez.

Born in San Juan, a city in northwestern Argentina, Murua discovered a love of drawing at a very young age. He creates both drawings and paintings, and prefers the medium of oil painting. He has participated in a number of art shows in the Houston area and in Argentina, and currently resides in Houston.

“Argentine Gaucho” by Luis Murua.

UNIVERSITY BRANCH LIBRARY FEATURES ARGENTINIAN ARTIST FOR HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH, OCT. 3 In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, Sept. 15-Oct. 15, Fort Bend County Libraries will feature a talk and demonstration by Argentinian artist Luis Murua on Saturday, Oct. 3, beginning at 2 p.m., at the University Branch Library, 14010 University Blvd in Sugar Land, on the UH campus. The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call the University Branch Library at 281-633-5100.

Murua will share his experience as a selftaught artist. He will also discuss the artistic process as his talent has grown and evolved over the years. His presentation will include a demonstration of his painting.

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| Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

Dulles High School students Jimmie Washington and Niara Hubbard (seated, from left) receive advice on completing their college essays from College and Career Readiness Coordinator Dr. Terry Sheneman.

COLLEGE NIGHTS FOR FBISD STUDENTS, OCT. 5 AND 8 Fort Bend ISD high school students are getting a jump start on their college planning. Nearly 365 students recently attended an FBISD College Application Boot Camp to meet with college representatives and learn about college admission policies, financial aid, college prep courses, and more.

Hosted by the District's College and Career

Enjoy a sweet time at the Fort Bend Education Foundation’s first Annual Sugar Shindig presented by Safari Texas on Friday, Oct. 9, at 6:30 p.m. Shimmy over to Safari Texas for a casual evening of fun and frolic, including a fajita dinner, a dessert auction and dancing to the music of Password. This is camaraderie at its finest as staff from our schools and community members vie for the best cakes made by local bakers. The event is hosted by the Angels of Education Auxiliary, whose mission is to create community awareness for the Foundation’s Grants to Teachers and Schools programs. Have your cake and eat it too at this shindig!

To purchase tickets (adults only) or make donations, visit fortbendisd.com/foundation.

Tickets are $25 per person.

Readiness Department, the event held at Bush and Hightower high schools provided students and their parents with a wealth of information and resources to help prepare for college.

Twenty colleges and universities were represented at the event, including Houston Community College, Stephen F. Austin State University, Texas A&M University at Corpus Christi, Texas State University, Texas Woman’s University, The University of Texas at Dallas, The University of Tulsa, Trinity University, University of Houston and Wharton County Junior College.

The boot camp began with a general information session, presented by college representatives, to provide camp attendees with detailed information and answers to any questions they had. The camp also included a college fair to allow guests to learn more about the college of their choice, and a computer area where students submitted college applications.

Seniors who missed the College Application Boot Camps will have another opportunity to receive college information by attending Fort Bend ISD’s 2015 College Nights. The evening events will be offered: Oct. 5 at Austin High School (3434 Pheasant Creek Dr., Sugar Land) from 6-8 p.m.; and Oct. 8 at Ridge Point High School (500 Waters Lake Blvd., Missouri City) from 6-8 p.m.

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Last year’s Fall Fundraiser brought delicious food items, desserts and other items to your table. This year Kolodziejs Food Service returns to support the fundraising efforts. The Campbell students will sell Texas specialties, dessert treats, tumblers and wrapping items. The items are delicious and can be frozen to last throughout the year. Stock up on treats to help celebrate your holidays.

The Fall Fundraiser will run through Oct. 5. The pick-up of items and reward party for top sellers will take place on Oct. 27. Look for more information at campbellpto.org.

TerriKurkjian Your Specialist FORT BEND HOME

I Just Sold The Highest Priced Home On Record In Missouri City

— 4 Forest Isle Lane — S O LD

CAMPBELL ELEMENTARY 2015 FALL FUNDRAISER, THROUGH OCT. 5

Forest Isle - $2,950,000

FRIGHTFULLY FUN YOUTH EVENTS AT FIRST COLONY BRANCH LIBRARY, THROUGH OCTOBER In celebration of autumn, the Youth Services Department at Fort Bend County Libraries’ First Colony Branch Library will host special activities for families and teens in October. The activities are free and open to the public. The First Colony Branch Library is located at 2121 Austin Parkway. For more information, call 281-238-2800.

On Monday, Oct. 12, 1:30-2:30 p.m, families with children of all ages are invited to attend a “Fall Marionette Puppet Show” featuring exquisitely handcrafted marionettes from the Carranza Puppet Theater.

Families are invited to watch a spookybut-not-too-scary movie together on Saturday, Oct. 17, at 1:30 p.m. Enjoy an animated feature starring the voices of Adam Sandler, Selena Gomez and Andy Samburg. The movie is rated PG. On Wednesday, Oct. 21, from 6-7 p.m., teens in grades 6 and up can attend a “Spooky Maker Faire” where they can get ideas for creepy costume additions for any frightfully fun costume party. Stations will be set up throughout the room with Halloween-themed crafts.

On Monday, Oct. 26, from 5-6:30 p.m., the library will have a “Fall Craft Drop-In and Costume Parade” for families with children of all ages. A children’s costume parade through the library will begin at 5:45 p.m., but families may come and go anytime during the event.

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Missouri City residents will partner with police officers, firefighters and elected officials on Tuesday, Oct. 6 to participate in National Night Out (NNO) and promote community unity and safe neighborhoods.

In advance of the City’s official NNO celebration, first responders will host the sixth annual Pre-National Night Out “Kick Off” gathering at the Police Mini-Station, 1703-A Texas Pkwy., on Saturday, Oct. 3, from 3-6 p.m. Then, on Oct. 6, citizens will kick-off the crime-prevention initiative at 5 p.m. in the Target parking lot, 6000 Hwy. 6 at FM 1092. The Target Corporation is the National Corporate Sponsor of National Night Out. Members of the Fire & Rescue services and the Police Department, including the Dive, SWAT, Bike Patrol and ATV Search Teams, will attend both events to visit with participants and share public safety materials. A ladder truck, police vehicles, tactical equipment, and rescue boat will also be on display.

In advance of the event, residents can register block parties at missouricitytx.gov; by contacting Sgt. Jazton Heard at 281-403-5825, jheard@missouricitytx.gov, or by signing up at Public Safety Headquarters, 3849 Cartwright Rd., on Sept. 22 from 6-8 p.m. Hosts who sign up at Public Safety Headquarters, will receive a free NNO T-shirt.

“We’re looking forward to another great event this year and being able to encourage our citizens to get to know one another and partner with their police officers and firefighters to help keep our streets safe,” said Sgt. Heard, who is community resource officer for the police department.

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FORT BEND PARENTS OF MULTIPLES GARAGE SALE, OCT. 10 Fort Bend Parents of Multiples (fbpom.org), a nonprofit support group, hosts a buy/sell garage sale where members gather with all of their gently used goodies for sale. This year’s sale will be held at Parkway United Methodist Church, 5801 New Territory Blvd, on Oct. 10, from 8-11:30 a.m. for any parents and parents-to-be.

There will be clothing (baby, toddler, children, adult), strollers, toys, books, shoes, costumes, swim gear, car seats, etc. Since the sellers are moms of multiples, there usually are two of everything. It is free to shop and only cash or credit cards are accepted. All sales are final.

KOOKIN FOR KIDS FUNDRAISER FOR TEXAS CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL, OCT. 10 Kookin' for Kids is enrolling grill teams at Chamberlin Ace Hardware now. Your only qualification is to be a happy griller for this open style competition. Join this fundraising event at Chamberlin Ace Hardware on Oct. 10 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. for great food, great entertainment and great fun. And it's all for the kids!

Prizes include 1st/2nd/3rd Place and People's Choice, which will be awarded the grill they are cooking on; additionally,1st place receives $100 Ace gift card; 2nd place receives $50 Ace gift card; 3rd place receives $25 Ace gift card; People's Choice receives $25 Ace gift card.

Contact Chamberlin Ace at 281-4958844 or come by the store at 9440 Hwy. 6 South for more information. Spaces are still available. More details about the event are at acehardwaretexas.com/kookin-forkids#sthash.xiMHlLi4.dpuf.

LAKE OLYMPIA GARDEN CLUB The Lake Olympia Garden Club meets each month for a field trip and meeting.

Members donate to a number of worthwhile organizations throughout the year, and are also asked to bring nonperishable items to each meeting for the East Fort Bend food pantry. Membership includes not only Lake Olympia but the surrounding area. Visitors and new members are always welcome. For information, contact Jo Ann Keene at 281-438-2174 or keeneja@yahoo.com.

Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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“Our pat “Our patients tient ie s des ient deserve er ve the the bes best. t. T That hatt iss wh why hyy they are are our patients.” pattients.” they ~ Sam Cress, D.D.S.~ The “Show Me City” Fire Department will host its open house at Fire Station 1.

Missouri City Fire Department's Fourth Annual Open House, Oct. 10 Missouri City’s Bravest are set to host their fourth annual Fire & Rescue Services Open House on Saturday, Oct. 10 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Fire Station 1, 3849 Cartwright Rd. The event will feature a variety of activities and demonstrations, including a fire safety house; fire extinguisher training for adults; firefighter skills drills for children; exit drills residents can practice at home; and tours of the firehouse and a fire truck.

“We are excited about continuing our commitment to provide fire protection and education programs to the community,” said Fire Chief Russell Sander. “Hundreds of residents and visitors have joined us for these safety events the past three years and we’re looking forward to another successful event this year.” For more information, visit missouricitytx.gov.

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Gifts Galore Greatwood has announced its 13th Annual Fall Gift Show on Saturday, Oct. 17 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Dickinson Elementary in Greatwood. Shoppers will enjoy a shopping extravaganza featuring over 75 vendors with a variety of new merchandise you can’t find in stores, including fall and holiday décor and gifts, yard and home décor, embellished clothing, jewelry, handbags, specialty foods, children and baby items and candles.

Concessions will be available, including breakfast and lunch items provided by local restaurants. Admission is free and strollers are welcome, so come and shop ‘til you drop. A portion of the proceeds benefits Lamar Educational Awards Foundation (L.E.A.F.), a nonprofit community-based organization created to support the educational programs of Lamar CISD. For more information on Gifts Galore Greatwood Fall 2015 Show, contact Staci Hartfiel at Staci@GiftsGaloreShows.com.

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Sixth Annual American Cancer Society's "Couture for the Cause," Oct. 17

Julissa Duran and Amy West, cochairs of the American Cancer Society’s “Couture for the Cause.”

The public is invited to join the sixth annual Couture for the Cause “A White Haute Affair.” Returning as presenting sponsor, Wealth Design Group partners with the American Cancer Society for this exclusive evening on Oct. 17 at the home of Randy and Brenda Bartley in Sugar Land featuring an unforgettably creative fashion show and a dress code of all-white attire.

Julissa Duran and Amy West, co-chairs of the event, have an important message.

Julissa says, “Recently, I’d forgotten to schedule my annual mammogram in January, but wasn’t worried. I’m only 45 and the only cancer in my family was my dad, who had prostate cancer three years ago. In fact, I was serving on the Couture for the Cause committee in his honor! After my mammogram, they called back for more testing. After 5 hours in radiology, I heard the terrifying words: ‘It looks like breast cancer.’

A biopsy confirmed I had invasive lobular sarcoma, stage 2.”

She adds, “I joined this committee last year to help others, but never imagined I’d face cancer myself. After the diagnosis, ACS called to offer me a free wig and invited me to a support group. Volunteering is now so personal. I know firsthand the difference that ACS makes. On April 6, I underwent a 9-hour bilateral mastectomy. I wasn’t ready for this road bump but will continue living every day to the fullest.”

Amy says, “As co-chairs, we’re thankful for ACS, this committee and the support of our stellar community. Cancer shows up unannounced and disregards who you are or what you have planned... no one is immune. Our Couture for the Cause committee is determined to help fight this vicious disease. Never underestimate what your support can do.”

For information or to sponsor, contact Valerie Marun at 713-706-5684 or valerie.marun@cancer.org.

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| Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

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Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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Visit our mystical lighted garden and showroom at the SV Griffin Gallery located in the Upper Kirby District. Design and showroom appointments fill up quickly!

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GREATWOOD SECOND ANNUAL E-CYCLE DRIVE, OCT. 18

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OPENS CONCERT SEASON, OCT. 17

Girl Scout Troop 3035 and Holmes Road Recycling are hosting an E-Cycle Drive on Sunday, Oct. 18 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Rec Center #1, 7225 Greatwood Parkway.

Drive by and donate old computers and electronics so they can be recycled.

Members of the group will unload your car.

Accepted donations include computer equipment, computer monitors, TVs up to 27 inches (larger flat screens also accepted), consumer electronics, small kitchen appliances, blow dryers and flat irons, alarm clocks and radios and fans.

Contact Ken Head at 979-240-3367 or kenhead@outlook.com and Sofia Sheikh at 832-922-2089 or sofie_sheikh@yahoo.com with questions or for more information.

The Friends of the Arts committee at First United Methodist Church in Missouri City will open its new concert season on Saturday, Oct. 17, beginning at 5 p.m.

The program title: "Will You Marry Me? A Celebration of Weddings" presented by the Music Ministry at the church will have a special appeal not only to those who are thinking about upcoming weddings, but also those who are curious about what goes on behind the scenes of a wedding. This program will cause you to remember, to laugh, to anticipate, but most of all to appreciate the sacred moment that is a wedding. The program will be held in the sanctuary of the church located at 3900 Lexington Blvd.

Handicapped parking is available. The concerts are always free to the public, although donations are graciously accepted.

Email FriendsoftheArts@comcast.net or call 281-499-3502 for more information.

SECOND MILE MISSION CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT, OCT. 19 The Second Mile Mission Center has announced their second annual Charity Golf Tournament benefiting the Pat McWaters

Tournament co-chairs Julia Stoner (left) and Susan Waldron.

Health Clinic, a free medical and dental clinic, to be held at Sweetwater Country Club on Monday, Oct. 19.

There will be a noon Shotgun Tee Time, as well as a silent auction reception and dinner to follow the golf tournament. Non-golfing guests are invited to attend the evening events. More information is available at secondmile.org.

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(L-R): Yang Si, Summer Haiyan Song Voice Studio; Zeenat Mitha, celebrity emcee; Beth Arlington, 2014 regatta chair; Isis Smalls, Miss Houston 2013; Varun Gupta, Mr. Bollywood 1st runner up 2014; Eve Ruhlman, executive director; Himesh Gandhi, Sugar Land City Council; The Honorable Li Qiangmin, consul general of the People's Republic of China in Houston; and Eugene Lee, advisory board, Texas Dragon Boat Association.

40

| Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

12TH ANNUAL GULF COAST INTERNATIONAL DRAGON BOAT REGATTA, OCT. 24-25 It’s been nearly a year since there have been sightings of dragons on Brooks Lake, but they are returning soon and will be dancing to boot. On Oct. 24-25 the public is invited to the 12th Annual Gulf Coast International Dragon Boat Regatta from 8:30 a..m.–4:30 p.m. on Brooks Lake at the Fluor Daniels Campus in Sugar Land.

Over 40 teams have already registered, and they include paddlers from all across the United States as well as Canada. Nationally ranked Steers, just off victories at the 12th World Nations Championships in Welland, Canada will be working with our local teams to enhance their paddling experience.

David M. Mandell, executive director of the Texas Dragon Boat Association and his team are planning a weekend of fun and excitement that you won’t want to miss. There is still time for teams and individuals to register to participate. This event is free to the public and a great family event. It is expected that over 5,000 people will attend this weekend regatta. A few spaces are still available for product sales and food vendors. For more information, email Mandell at texasdragonboat@yahoo.com or visit texasdragonboat.com.

COMPLIMENTARY MEALS FOR SENIOR CITIZENS Catholic Charities Mamie George Community Center offers daily complimentary hot meals to senior citizens at Patty’s Café, open Monday through Friday 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Dining is available both inside and outside, with free wireless Internet access. Enrollment in the meal program is required at the Mamie George Community Center, 1111 Collins Road in Richmond. For more information, call 281-202-6200.

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CONCERT ON THE CREEK IN WESSENDORFF PARK, OCT. 30 Richmond’s Wessendorff Park has been seeing more activity with their newest park, now that the Historical Richmond Association has been hosting Movie In The Park nights and a Music In The Park night.

But the city will soon experience its first music festival, Concert on the Creek, a fall Friday night of live music and great food.

Morton Street Music owner and musician, Rob Quarles, has wanted to produce a music festival in historic downtown Richmond for several years. Morton Street Music, LLC was created exclusively to promote and produce live seasonal outdoor concerts and an annual all day music festival in Richmond.

The first of these events will be on Friday Oct. 30 from 6-11p.m. at Wessendorff Park, on Preston St., just north of City Hall and the railroad tracks, between 4th and 6th Streets. The event is free to the public and will offer a variety of musical genres.

Concert on the Creek will feature six bands/artists and four food trucks across this five-hour evening. Go to mortonstreetmusic.com to view theline-up of bands and the food trucks.

The new Braman Winery & Brewery, due to open in new digs before year’s end, will be on site with beverages for purchase and a variety of vendors will round out the festival atmosphere. For more information, contact Robert@mortonstreetmusic.com.

SUGAR CREEK BAPTIST CHURCH MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL, NOV. 1 Fort Bend County is the most ethnically diverse county in America and Sugar Creek Baptist Church in Sugar Land reflects that diversity, with members from over 90 countries. To celebrate the congregation, the community is invited to an afternoon of multi-cultural festivities, including music, traditional attire, and dance on Sunday, Nov. 1 from 4:30-7:30 p.m on the Sugar Land campus in the Commons and Main Worship Center. That will be followed by an evening concert featuring a musical performance by the the Sugar Creek Worship Ministry including multinational renditions of contemporary and traditional worship music. For more information contact Clif Cummings at 281-242-2858, email him at ccummings@sugarcreek.net, or visit sugarcreek.net/let-the-nations-rejoice.

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(L-R ): Sugar Creek Country Club Women’s Association President Rosemary Jodeit, and Market committee members Amelie Hamizi, Judy Childress and Helen Rosenthal.

(L-R): Pam Spencer, SPM co-chair; Alison Haralson, SPM cochair; Catherine Kubala, SPM co-chair; Jimi Cagle, P.F. Chang’s operating partner; Sheila Cooper, SPM co-chair; Monica Henderson, preview night committee; Chasity Munn, SPM board liaison; and Sherri Ebarb, SPM co-chair.

Sugar Plum Market to Kick Off with Preview Night, Nov. 5 Tickets are on sale for the 2015 Sugar Plum Market. The “Let it Snow” themed Market will begin with a VIP Preview Night on Thursday, Nov. 5 from 610 p.m. Preview Night patrons will enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres and be the first to shop the market, which is presented by the Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) and Memorial Hermann.

“Preview Night has become a community event that sells out each year,” said Pam Spencer, Sugar Plum Market co-chair. “Its popularity is due in part to local restaurants providing light hors d’oeuvres and serving staff, making for a festive start to a fun night of shopping. We are so thankful for their generosity in donating to our event and making it such a success year after year.” Tickets are $75 and include Thursday evening advance shopping, a Preview Night drink ticket, light hors d’oeuvres and Market entry Friday and Saturday.

Regular hours for the Sugar Plum Market are Friday, Nov. 6 from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 7 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. The 15th annual market will be held at the Stafford Centre Performing Arts Theatre and Convention Center to benefit local Fort Bend County charities. This year’s market will feature over 100 fabulous vendors from across the state.

Sponsorship and underwriting opportunities range from $250 to $10,000 with many benefits, including Preview Night tickets.

General admission tickets may be purchased at select local Randalls stores beginning Oct. 1 and also at the door during market hours. The 2014 Preview Night sold out, so patrons are encouraged to purchase tickets early. Visit sugarplummarket.com or call 281-636-6272 for more information.

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| Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

Sugar Creek Women’s Association “Holiday Treasures” Market, Nov. 5 The Sugar Creek Country Club Women’s Association continues the longtime tradition of sponsoring its spectacular annual market, “Holiday Treasures,” on Nov. 5 at the Sugar Creek Country Club, 420 Country Club Blvd., Sugar Land. The public is invited to shop from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for a $5 admission fee. The proceeds from this fee will be given to a local charity.

Along with many returning vendors, a number of new vendors have been added for this year’s holiday shoppers. Among the many vendors will be Amici Italian Imports, Collectors Nest, Follow your Arrow Boutique, Baby Mine, A Ari Jewelry, Scentsy and The Pearl Lady. Shoppers can choose from a variety of items including jewelry, children’s toys, clothing, handbags, foods, specialty gift items, home decor selections and holiday decorations. For more information call the Sugar Creek CC at 281-494-9131.

Patrons and supporters enjoyed the festivities at last year’s Texas Size Night of Hope.

Hope For Three Rolls the Dice for Casino Night, Nov. 6 The second annual Hope for Three Casino Night and Hold 'em Poker Tournament is set for Nov. 6 at Sweetwater Country Club. The casual dress affair will be held from 7-11 p.m.

Organizers say the buy-in is low but the stakes are high in the effort to support families living with autism. iHost Poker will once again provide the setting with an authentic Vegas feel with nonstop gaming and professional dealers. You do not have to be a great player to participate; beginners are welcome. Remember, although one may indeed have bragging rights, no one loses at this event. Everyone is a winner, especially families with autistic members.

Entry to roll the dice, sit at the tables and have an opportunity for bragging rights is $100, or Double Down with a 2-for-1 special of only $150. The entry fee for non-gamers is $50. Visit hopeforthree.org/casino-night or call 281-245-0640 for tickets and registration. Participate behind the scenes through sponsorship, underwriting or volunteering.

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The Daughters of the British Empire (DBE) invite the public to attend the 42nd annual British Festival on Saturday, Nov. 7, from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. at 1 Fluor Daniel Drive in Sugar Land.

After an incredibly successful British Festival in 2014 which saw proceeds for local charities rise by over 20 percent the group is working hard to make this year’s Festival the best ever. The Ladies of the DBE are currently making Christmas crackers and cakes, jams, jellies, and hampers laden with goodies. They are collecting trinkets and treasures, silent auction items, lucky dips, dog treats and Christmas trees for the many stands that are synonymous with the Festival. Many of these items are collected throughout the year on trips back to the UK. The fantastic entertainment program will include the Houston Highlander Pipe Band, the Royal Scottish Dancers, the St Thomas Episcopal School Highland Dancers, a vintage car show, children’s entertainers and much more.

The British Festival is a wonderful reminder of quintessential British culture; a glorious part of this culture can be found in the tearoom and the pub. It is an opportunity for the DBE to give back to the gracious American community which has been so welcoming. Proceeds from this year will go to Mountbatten House as well as other local charities. Entrance $5 for 12 years and over. For more information, visit dbetexas.org or call 713-729-4049.

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(L-R): Child Advocates of Fort Bend board president Jim McClellan, CEO Ruthanne Mefford and board member Jim Lockwood.

CHILD ADVOCATES OF FORT BEND CASA CHRISTMAS HOME TOUR, DEC. 11 AND 12 The Fred & Mabel R. Parks Foundation, Child Advocates of Fort Bend (CAFB) staff, committee members, decorators and homeowners are gearing up for the 24th annual CASA Christmas Home Tour, scheduled for Friday, Dec. 11 and Saturday, Dec. 12. Neighborhoods confirmed for 2015 include Sienna Plantation and Imperial.

“Fred and Mabel R. Parks Foundation has had a long-standing relationship with this agency and with our Home Tour. We are so excited that they came forward to kick off the sponsor drive again this year as our Event Underwriter,” said CAFB CEO Ruthanne Mefford.

Proceeds from the Christmas Home Tour help CAFB advocate for the needs of abused and neglected children in this community. Through its two programs, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) and the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC), the agency touches the lives of more than 400 young victims each month.

A Fort Bend holiday tradition, the tour offers guests the opportunity to view beautifully decorated homes in Fort Bend County while helping to raise needed funds to support CAFB’s programs.

Tour hours are 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Dec. 11-12 with a candlelight tour on Dec. 11 from 6-9 p.m. Sponsors and volunteers are needed to support the Home Tour. If you would like to participate, please contact Lisa Moore at 281-344-5108 or lmoore@cafb.org.

For updates on home locations and ticket sales, go to cafb.org/Events/Home-Tour.

Whether or not you participate in the Tour, you are invited to the Special Tour Lunch at Sweetwater Country Club from 11a.m.-2 p.m. on the Friday and Saturday of the Home Tour. Neither reservations nor membership to the club are required. Lunch tickets are $15. A portion of the lunch proceeds supports the Christmas Home Tour.

The wreath raffle, which was new to the tour last year, will take place again this year. Wreaths decorated by each of the decorators on the tour will be raffled during the tour. Images of the wreaths will be available on the website, but guests may view the wreaths in person at the homes. Raffle tickets will be available at all of the home tour homes and at the Special Tour Lunch.

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CAFB staff with CEO Ruthanne Mefford (back row, far right) are already planning their attire for the 2016 Superhero Ball.

CHILD ADVOCATES OF FORT BEND 2016 GALA, APRIL 30, 2016 Child Advocates of Fort Bend (CAFB) invites you to iron your capes, press your best suit or slip into your ball gown and join them on April 30, 2016 in the ballroom of the Sugar Land Marriott Town Square for The Superhero Ball. From the minute you fly into the Marriott, it promises to be a supernatural evening of action heroes, motivating stories, delicious food, and a live and silent auction filled with unique opportunities and exceptional objects.

CAFB recently held The Secret Garden Gala. With the help of event underwriter National Oilwell Varco and presenting sponsors Exchange Club of Sugar Land and Early McClintic & McMillan, it was a record-breaking success. Funds raised will support CAFB’s programs and allow the agency to continue to serve the needs of child victims of abuse in Fort Bend County.

“At the very heart of this event is the belief that every child deserves a safe and healthy childhood. Community participation in our gala fundraiser is a crucial part of our mission to help children and families affected by child abuse,” says Ruthanne Mefford, CAFB’s executive director.

CAFB is a nonprofit agency dedicated to ending child abuse by providing a voice, healing the hurt and breaking the cycle of child abuse. Through its Court Appointed Special Advocates Program (CASATM), Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) and more than 200 trained community volunteer advocates, Child Advocates improves the lives of more than 400 children each month and has served more than 12,600 children since 1991. For information on volunteering call Volunteer Services at 281-344-5146. To learn more about the Superhero Ball, call 281-344-5108 or visit cafb.org.

Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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Scene in The Bend

by Cari Middaugh FOR GALAS, PARTIES, LUNCHEONS Email: cari.fblifestyles@gmail.com

FOR SCHOOL & STUDENT NEWS AND OTHER HAPPENINGS: editor@lifestyles-magazines.com

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Happy Fall y'all! As the seasons change, (or not so much here in Houston!) so does our level of busy-ness with the holidays quickly approaching and the gala season shifting into high gear! It is truly my favorite time of year when I start to feel the cooler weather and begin receiving invitations to all of the fabulous upcoming parties and galas here in Fort Bend. If you have an upcoming event, please be sure and send me your high-resolution photos and include the names of those pictured to cari.fblifestyles@gmail.com.

See you around the Bend...

Cheers!

Cari

Fort Bend Education Foundation Golf Tournament The 16th Annual Fort Bend Education Foundation’s Back to School Scramble Golf Tournament was held at Sweetwater Country Club. Schlumberger presented the event, which was chaired by Claude Leatherwood. Thanks to the generosity of this year’s participants, the event netted $115,500 for the Fort Bend Education Foundation. The 256 golfers who played in the tournament enjoyed lunch from Chickfil-A and an awards banquet at the end of the day.

1) Title Sponsor Schlumberger represented by Jeff Boettiger, Eddie Dore and Chris Barton with Chair Claude Leatherwood.

2) FBISD Superintendent, Dr. Charles Dupre with FBEF board member John Wantuch.

3) Chipping Contest winner Matthew Jarrell with FBEF President Frank Petras .

4) Chair Claude Leatherwood with 1st Place Gross on the Pecan Course Sam Golden, Gary Dante and Stephen Reed with FBEF president Frank Petras.

5) FBEF Board Members Peggy Jackson, Terri Wang, Lynn Halford, Executive Director Brenna Cosby, Pat Houck and Kay James.

6) 1st place overall winners: Vipul Anand, Aquil Khandwala, Harry Munday and Atul Puri.

7) Volunteers Jen Rucchoeft, Karla Vessey and Rita Brown.

610 PIEDMONT ( VENETIAN ESTATES). Spectacular one story on ½ acre with gorgeous views of Lake Venice and pool.

Wonderful floor plan offers 5 bedrooms and 5 baths with large living areas. Outside find a large backyard, pool, and bulkhead. There is nothing like this in Fort Bend, spectacular location. $995,000

6102 MUSTANG TRAIL ( CROSS CREEK RANCH). Exquisitely appointed, this luxurious home has lots to offer. Soaring ceilings, archways, and open rooms repleat with architectural detail. 4 bdrms, study, huge game room with wine fridge & kitchenette, media, 3 car tandem garage.

Huge backyard with room for a pool, compares to NEW! $600,000

7403 FOSTER CREEK. Peaceful Country Living at its Best on 2.36 acres! Spectacular views from almost every room from this unique one story in Fosters Creek. Short commute in-town and surrounded by shopping and conveniences

FROM LUXURY TOWNHOMES TO COUNTRY ESTATES Thinking about moving? Or looking for information on a particular home or neighborhood? Call, email or visit MartaMohan.com.

We can answer all questions or assist you with homes at any price range, and specialize in offering 5-star service.

Marta Mohan CLHMS, ABR, QSC Fort Bend Resident and Specialist

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www.MartaMohan.com • marta@martamohan.com Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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Fort Bend Chamber Leadership Forum The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce recently held an Alumni Reception at Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land for those who have successfully graduated through the Leadership Forum, and also welcomed the Class of 2016.

Release the Beauty Within • Fraxel™ (for wrinkles & acne scarring) • Radiesse • Botox™ • Belotero™ • Restylane™ • Juvederm™ • Sculptra® Aesthetic • Tumescent Liposuction • Sclerotherapy • Microdermabrasion • Focus Laser (for darker skin types with pigment & scarring) • Permanent Makeup • General Dermatology Procedures

1) Lea Ann Gibson and Chris Breaux 2) Cyrstal Harris, Michole Fields and Leala Hall 3) Jonathan Pursch and Malisha Patel 4) The Fort Bend Chamber Leadership Forum Class of 2016 5) Some of the 2015 Alumni Class

New State-of-the-Art Lasers Laser Tattoo Removal (Picosure Laser) Physician Supervised Fotofacial™ Laser Hair Removal (new laser for all skin types) ™

Pamela Carr M.D., P.A. CERTIFIED BY THE AMERICAN BOARD OF DERMATOLOGY DISEASES OF SKIN, HAIR & NAILS

Fort Bend Junior Service League Sustainers Welcome Coffee The Fort Bend Junior Service League Sustainers held a welcome coffee for new members for the 20152016 year. Hosted at the home of Cee Cee Parker, more than 80 ladies enjoyed coffee, fun and conversation.

1) Amelia Appel with Sustainer President Kelli Metzenthin 2) Ruthanne Mefford with Nell Ciancarelli 3) Fran Steele and Betty Adams 4) Cindy Dempster and Liz Furman 5) Linda Woods Wilson, Dorine Craig, Adrienne Barker and Wanda Sdao 6) Vickie Coates with Elsa Maxey 7) Manuela Arroyos and Lori Dunaway 8) Betty Baitland and Linda Pagel

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Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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RESTAURANT NEON SIGN C1040s Bonjour! Salvaged from a restaurant in Oakland, CA, this incredible, two-toned neon sign features a fantastically fun and mischievous-looking chef, complete with hat and mustache. In addition to the original paint and construction, this sign even boasts its original neon tubing, which shows its 70 years in the character and inconsistency of its glow – a good thing to any lover of authenticity. rejuvenation.com

MULTI HAZARD BARGELLO THROW PILLOW Colorful Bargello throw pillows are 100 percent wool and hand embroidered using long stitches to form elaborate geometric patterns. Velvet-backed pillow cover has hidden zipper and feather/down insert. jonathanadler.com

COURTLY STRIPE GOURD It only makes sense that the MacKenzie-Childs pumpkin patch would produce black and white pumpkins and squash! These autumn accents are beautiful additions to your table and home. Get out your cozy sweaters, warm the apple cider, and add a Large Courtly Stripe Gourd to your fall vignette. mackenzie-childs.com

FRIENDLY PHEASANTS These colorful Friendly Pheasants add a festival feel to this season. This fuzzy duo features a colorful, detailed felt physique with a real feathered tail. Bendable wire feet allow you to perch these festive pheasants on a console, mantel, or tabletop. wisteria.com

FIERCE SKELETON DOGS SCENE Guard your haunted house with the two ferocious-looking fidos of this Fierce Skeleton Dog Scene Kit. These wickedly detailed dogs are simply begging to stay at your house. Nothing says “beware of frightful fun” quite like their crocodile-style teeth, spiked ears, and long snouts. Each dog is posable. grandinroad.com

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Fine Leather Furniture for Living Rooms, Family Rooms and Home Theatre townandcountryleather.com

1749 Post Oak Blvd., Houston - 713-621-3366 7930 W. Grand Parkway South, Richmond - 281-239-7632 Coming Soon — 19380 I-45, Spring

Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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Find us on

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in anced Cosmetic Solutions Adv to Free the Beauty With

www.carrderm.com 1111 HigHway 6, Suite 160 call 281.494.0034

REPURPOSING CARDBOARD

PLANT, PICK AND PRESERVE CHILIS

Though paper and cardboard seem common and humble materials, in The Art of Cardboard readers will discover totally unexpected, beautiful and intricate art that can be created using this repurposed and up-cycled resource. Find jaw-dropping cardboard creations from around the world, as well as the process of each art form and tricks of the trade from small clever projects to huge art installations.

Lori Zimmer guides readers through amazing art productions – this is much more than a book about “neat” cardboard designs.

From “Hungarian Hot Wax” to “Red Savina” and from “Scotch Bonnet” to “Elephant’s Trunk,” chilis come in dozens of shapes, colors and degrees of spiciness. Red Hot Chili Grower provides everything you need to grow your own chilis from scratch, with step-by-step instructions for sowing seeds, caring for the plants, harvesting the fruit and troubleshooting common problems.

Award-winning gardening writer Kay Maguire guides readers through different types of chilis, explaining origin, appearance, heat level, sowing, growing, cooking and eating.

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DINING ON A FOOD STAMP BUDGET

RUGS FROM RAGS

When Leanne Brown moved to New York to earn a master’s degree in food studies, she learned that 46 million Americans have to survive on only $4 a day, the amount provided through SNAP (the U.S. government’s food stamps program).

Millions of others, too, live under similar constraints – from students, to grads entering the job market, to young families and retirees. To determine how well one can actually eat on this budget, she took to her kitchen. The result was Good and Cheap, her book of recipes that demonstrates why kitchen skill, not budget, is the key to great food. It’s a resource for those who want to learn, or anyone in need of stretching a tight budget.

Knitting Fabric Rugs introduces an innovative technique for creating stunning designs using large knitting needles and recycled fabrics, such as T-shirts and other garments. Author Karen Tiede came to this art form through her background as a knitter, but was inspired by handwoven rag rugs and bags made from thrift shop clothes. Tiede created her own method of using recycled fabrics that utilized her love of knitting. This book features directions for making 25 rugs, including how-tos for color blending, spiral patterns, freeform designs and more.

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lake front

RIVERSTONE MAJESTIC POINTE GATED COMMUNITY Luxury, sophistication, and elegance along w/superior workmanship are the cornerstones for long time highly regarded custom builder, Sterling Classics homes. This open floor plan with dramatic high ceilings & tall windows features a Media & Game room downstairs along w/cleverly designed views of the gorgeous 75 acre lake from as many rooms as possible.

Over 8300 square feet + a bonus 1386 square feet, 4 car garage, circular drive, & expansive outdoor living space on the water. $2,800,000

new listing

FAIRCHILD MANOR Builder’s custom masterpiece w/special attention to detail. Upscale Millwork w/8� crown molding, travertine.

Quarters w/bed, bath, living room above garage w/its own exit door. Approx 2.5 acres w/pond. Island Kitchen w/Wolf cook top, pot filler, granite, back splash. Lavish Master suite w/his & her toilets, room size closet w/extensive built-ins. Mid-level Study. Carrera double doors. Iron circular staircase with granite lighted steps. $699,000

DECORATE YOUR LIFE In Absolutely Beautiful Things, successful designer Anna Spiro shows readers how to create an interior that is just right. It’s about the mix, she says, not the match, where you’ll find beauty in unexpected places. Along with lavish photographs of rooms she created, Spiro shares many of her secrets from a life in decorating, gives practical details on how to work with pattern and color, and provides a room-byroom guide to furniture choice. With her tips, you’ll learn how to create happy, interesting, layered and uplifting spaces where you live, mixing everything from color and pattern, old and new, square and round, quirky and conservative.

Debbie Marcell, ABR, GRI, CHMS, CNE Certified Luxury Home marketing SpeCiaLiSt

CELL: 281-782-2102 www.debbiemarcell.com debbiemarcell@garygreene.com

Texas Monthly Five Star Realtor 2014, 2015 Emerald Elite Status 2013, 2014 BHGRE Gary Greene Gold 2012

office: 281-980-5050 2323 town Center dr.

Sugar Land, tx 77478

Columbus Day Sale

Enabling All Families & Friends to Share Priceless Times Together, One Game Room at a Time.

LA JOIE DE VIVRE In Bridges of Paris, photojournalist Michael Saint James details his year of living in Paris where he spent his days and nights capturing images from over, on, beside and under the bridges of Paris.

With over 30 years’ experience as a photographer, educator and world traveler, he immersed himself in French culture to search out his authentic artist soul and bring back a treasure to share. The result is a visual feast and the intimate story of the world’s most romantic city. This is the perfect gift for the experienced or armchair traveler, newlyweds or anyone with a special connection to la joie de vivre — the joy of living.

12740 S Kirkwood Kirkwood 6WDĚŤRUG 7; 6WDĚŤRUG 7; sigtheater.com sigtheater .com BILLIARDFACTORY.COM BILLIARDFACTORY.COM 281-494-4567 888-647-6611 | F Four our Hous Houston ton Locations Locations | $867,1 Ę” '$//$6 Ę” +286721 Ę” 6$1 $1721,2 $867,1 Ę” '$//$6 Ę” +286721 Ę” 6$1 $1721,2 Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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Style }file

Lifestyles & Homes } Fashion + Beauty } What’s in store now.

Lulu Frost NecklaceOrtiga Mosaic Statement necklace is antiqued and has shiny golden brass, Swarovski crystals and mosaic stations with amazonite, jade, and pyrite tiles. neimanmarcus.com

Fendi- Thierry Lasry oval sunglasses with wide square acetate frames. fendi.com

Valentino- Valentino Garavani chain shoulder bag in black and light ivory striped nappa. valentino.com

Dolce & Gabbana Skirt- Printed silksatin midi skirt is from the Fall ‘15 runway collection.The print is based on drawings by the designers’ nieces and nephews.

Missoni- Long dress with plunging neckline in front and back, in Missoni exclusive lamé wave fabric. missoni.com

net-a-porter.com

Burakuyan-Bold geometric shapes are taken into a third dimension through contrasted materials. burakuyan.com

Oscar de la Renta- Striking Painted Rosebud fil Coupe gown has full skirt with intricate rosebud appliques. oscardelarenta.com

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Style} file Lifestyles & Homes } Fashion + Beauty What’s in store now.

Doctors Buford and Killyon welcome patients of ALL shapes and sizes.

SPECIALS October & November

$5,000 $5,000 $6,000

The Accident Over forty years ago, aerospace physicist Dr. Max Huber suffered a terrible accident when a routine experiment exploded in his face, resulting in severe chemical burns. Neither science nor medicine could offer sufficient promise of help, so Huber decided to help himself. Twelve years and some 6,000 experiments later — Crème de la Mer was born.

The Formula At the heart of Crème de la Mer is a nutrient-rich, highly potent Miracle Broth™. There is nothing unusual about its ingredients — a blend of sea kelp, vitamins and minerals. It's the way Huber distilled them that made the difference between a good moisturizer and a small miracle, borrowing from the ancient science of fermentation. This intensive, 3 to 4 month process released vital energies, transforming the ingredients into a whole far greater than the sum of its parts.

The Miracle There are those who insist Crème de la Mer has produced astonishing results.

Some might even call it miraculous. In a short time, skin becomes softer, firmer, looks virtually creaseless. Even the driest of complexions are healed.

The Secret Crème de la Mer's Miracle Broth™ is suspended within its extraordinary formula. To activate the broth and release its key ingredients, warm a small amount between your fingertips. As you pat onto clean, dry skin, you will instantly feel the soothing effects of the broth. Smooth over your face, neck, even under the fragile eye area. Apply day and night — for a lifetime. neimanmarcus.com

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Thursday, October 29TH • 10am-6pm

20% OFF DURING HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE (some exclusions apply)

- LITE BITES & DRINKS • Mark Roberts Fairies, Nativities & Ornaments • Custom Holiday Florals and Trees • VSA & Chan Luu Jewelry • Bella Notte Linens & Lili Alessandra Bedding

SCHEDULING IN HOME HOLIDAY DECORATING TODAY! Please call 281.265.2250 to schedule!

2250 Lone Star | Sugar Land, TX 77479 | in Sugar Land Town Square 281.265.2250 F: 1.877.402.0210 www.twentytwofiftyinteriors.com Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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Style }file

Lifestyles & Homes } Fashion + Beauty } What’s in store now.

GOLD CONNECTION JEWELERS Story by Krantz & Ziegler is the most exciting jewelry concept in years. Story takes the story-telling jewelry concept to a new level.

The combinations are virtually endless and so is the versatility. Let the charms and the bracelets tell your story.

281-344-9900 Goldconnection.net 206 E. Hwy 90A, Richmond

Paul Smith Coat-Women’s Beige Herringbone-Wool Coat has shearling collar. lyst.com

Stella McCartney Camel CoatOversized Camel Renee Coat in caramel and chestnut tones. stellamccartney.com

THE MAGNOLIA HOUSE Find the perfect unique gifts at The Magnolia House this year. Jewelry by Waxing Poetic, Chamilia, Sorrelli, and Chan lulu; witches, fairies, elves and Santas by Mark Roberts & Karen Didion; Consuela handbags; Tyler, Aromatizue & Lux fragrances; Clothing by MissMe, Rock Revival, and so much more. Come explore their Wonderland today!

Open 7 days a week. 281-208-9955 6146 Highway 6 at Murphy Road, Missouri City (in Kroger Center) Dolce & Gabbana Wood Bag- Textured leather-trimmed wood shoulder bag references Sicily’s Spanish heritage. net-a-porter.com

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Balenciaga Coat– Wool-blend coat is detailed with the label’s spray painteffect stripes in pink. net-a-porter.com

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Style} file Lifestyles & Homes } Fashion + Beauty What’s in store now.

AVALON - 10 WILMINGTON - $1,095,000 Luxurious custom home situated on greenbelt with exquisite updates & features throughout!

Garage Apt, Pool/Spa & outdoor kitchen!

SWEETWATER - 10 DARTMOOR COURT $698,000 Custom home on private cul de sac lot w/no back neighbors!Plantation shutters, granite countertops,hardwoods & more!

COMMONWEALTH - 4627 S. HAMPTON $610,000 Wonderfully udpated w/travertine floors,faux paint,custom lighting, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and more! Best FBISD Feeds!

COLONY OAKS - 4010 OAK SHADOWS $548,000 Updated 2 bedrooms down floorplan with custom built-ins throughout. Park like backyard with pool & covered patio.

AVALON - 5527 EMERALD POINTE COURT $525,000 Gleaming hardwood flooring, built-in entertainment center, Large game room up, plus a refreshing pool

COMMONWEALTH 3819 SAINT MICHAELS - $469,900 One of its kind w/garage apartment w/living room, bath, kitchenette and a bedroom! Updated home w/granite countertops & much more!

- Sugar Land’s H H Voted Best Realtor 2015

COOBIE Fights For Breast Cancer Awareness COOBIE SEAMLESS BRA, the widely popular bra line designed as a 'One-Size-Fits-All' comfort garment for women sized 32A to 36D, joins the struggle against breast cancer by promoting awareness and education to finding a cure. For the entire month of October, 10 percent of sales from all "pink" bras on the site will go to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, whose mission is to save lives by increasing awareness through education and providing mammograms for those in need.

Coobie is also ideal for women who are recovering from reconstructive breast augmentation. During the sensitive post-operative healing process, you need a bra that molds to your body that won't pinch or bind. Because it is a one-size-fits-all garment, it gently hugs the body giving snug support without constriction during this delicate period.

Comfortable, stylish, supportive and inexpensive, Coobie Seamless Bra is the most versatile cami/bra as it blends the right fusion of style and function to give you support that is natural and flattering. It also has the flexibility to work in tandem with any wardrobe from day to night, when traveling, during your daily fitness routines, yoga or just simply lounging around the house. Each style has the capability to seamlessly work with anything from elaborate tops and dresses to casual tanks, side-out tops and T's. With accessible price points, on-trend colors, all on top of its comfortable integrated support design–the label brings a definitive sense of the timeless and the timely value for the consumer dollar.

Coobie Seamless Bra is available from $18 to $24 at shopcoobie.com and at specialty boutiques nationwide.

Nancy Benevides Owner/Realtor H Houston Association of Realtors Top Producer 2005-2014 H Ranked among the Top 25 Residential Real Estate Professionals Houston Business Journal 2012, 2013, 2014 H 5 Star Texas Monthly magazine Realtor ‘11, ‘12, ‘13, ‘14 H Ranked Among America’s Best Agents 2013 H Houston Association of Realtor’s Client Rating 4.97+ out of 5 Stars H Selling over 3 million each month consecutive years

www.homesalesinsugarland.com 713-203-9975 • Nancy@BenevidesandAssociates.com 16525 Lexington Blvd., Ste. 260, Sugar Land, TX 77479

Let us help you fall in love with your house all over again! holiday

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Furniture & Accessories Ready-Made Christmas Decorations Decorating Demo at 1:00 pm

3644 Highway 6 South | Sugar Land, TX 77478 | 281.242.3336 Visit us on facebook Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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ç By Kelly Foss mycardata.com

GMC Canyon and Land Rover Discovery Sport

GMC Canyon | Starting price: $21,000

B

uying a small pickup truck these days is a lot like walking into your favorite movie theater and ordering a small soda. “Small” doesn’t exist and you’re going to pay more for it than you would like. On the upside, 10 or 12 extra ounces of carbonated goodness is always a plus.

Realistically speaking, small pickups are actually mid-size pickups, and deliver more carbonated goodness than compact trucks of the past ever did. Case in point: the new 2015 GMC Canyon.

The Canyon is the flashier cousin to the Chevy Colorado. Its beefy design reflects power and confidence, not unlike the Colorado, but features more chrome and upscale touches. Ingress does require step-

ping up and in, and that’s where running boards come in handy. The 16-inch aluminum wheels come standard, while the SLT trim gets outfitted with 18-inch polished aluminum wheels.

A number of configurations are available, making it easy to customize the Canyon to your needs. Extended cab or crew cab with either the short or long bed options allow customers to get exactly what they want.

The standard engine is a 2.5-liter I-4 with 200 horsepower and 191 lb-ft of torque.

Also available is a 305-horsepower V6, which allows the Canyon to tow up to 7,000 pounds. Overall ride quality is quite good. It definitely feels “trucky,” but the cabin is comfortable and quiet. Steering feels about

Land Rover Discovery Sport | Starting price: $37,995

T

here’s one thing that’s certain about the Land Rover/Range Rover family of vehicles: they represent status. Drive past any country club and you’ll find an array of Evoques and LR4s stabled in the parking lot. Most of them never see any real off-road action, opting instead for polo jaunts in the country and urban streets lined with upscale dining venues.

However, Land Rover’s newest crossover is harkening back to its heritage, with real-world, off-road capability, and taking back its name: Discovery Sport. This entry-level Land Rover is both competent and luxurious. Status and practicality come together in the Discovery Sport. This mashup of style and ruggedness should turn the heads of everyone who scoffed at the LR2.

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as you would expect in a pickup — not too sluggish, but not that sharp, either. And make no mistake: the Canyon is still somewhat of a beast when it comes to maneuvering in and out of tight parking spaces.

The V6 gets an EPA rating of 17/24 city/highway.

This upscale pickup is nicely appointed on the inside. All finishes feel refined and of high quality. Tech features like a built-in wifi hotspot and a host of apps keep you connected. Connect to your devices via USB and/or Bluetooth. Control everything with steering wheel-mounted controls or with the clean and simple touchscreen. Another nice feature is the standard rear vision camera, helpful in so many ways. The SLT features very comfortable leather seats with contrasting red stitching. These seats maintain a level of comfort that will leave you with fewer reasons to stop and stretch on long road trips.

As full-size pickups get more costly to manufacture, midsize trucks fill a nice gap for those who want or need a runabout-type of truck. The question then becomes, do you load it with so many options that you approach full-size territory as far as price is concerned? I suppose that’s where you can opt to supersize your drink, er, pickup, but that’s for another discussion.

So, if you’re in the market for a nicer truck with a nicer price (as compared to, say, a GMC Sierra) the Canyon may fit the bill. Starting at about $21K, it’s certainly worth a look.

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GLORY CRAFTS Why? For starters, there’s the entry price point of $37,995 — less than the BMW X3 and Audi Q5. Also, the Discovery Sport looks good. It has an athletic stance. Its lines are slick, giving the overall exterior design a very clean, crisp look.

Powered by Ford’s turbocharged 2.0liter engine and mated to a 9-speed ZF automatic transmission, this combination delivers 240 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque. As a true four-wheel drive, this hatchback can scale mountains and wade through 23.6 inches of water. It has 8.3 inches of axle clearance up front and 9.4 inches out back.

Of course, under normal driving conditions, the Discovery Sport’s handling is smooth, solid, and quiet. For city/highway/on road driving, the Discovery sport offers good steering wheel feedback and minimized noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) - not an easy balance to maintain with its rugged capabilities.

This vehicle reaches 0-60 in just over seven seconds, which is a tad slower than some of its competitors, but not really a surprise when you consider this compact crossover weighs a beefy 4,400+ pounds. It rides on a suspension tuned to handle a variety of terrains, aptly named Terrain Response. The driver simply selects the type of surface that they’re driving on, such as gravel, sand or snow, and the suspension adjusts.

Inside, the cabin is generously appointed with Land Rover luxury.

Three trim levels are available: SE, HSE, and HSE Luxury. Standard features include partial leather seats, rear view camera, and a rear parking aid. Scale up to the HSE Luxury model and you’ll get heated and cooled Windsor leather seats, an 11-speaker sound system, and navigation, among other comforts. You’ll also move into the low $50K range with this model. The third row is a $1,700 option, and is best suited to the little ones.

The 2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport offers both status and capability that come together in one very nice, very affordable package.

For information on these and other vehicles, visit mycardata.com.l

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y p e e r C Cool what’s

&

Seasonanlfoerveveernytosne with some fu

in Fort Bend

By Judy Latta utumn is officially here, and this exhilarating time of year brings pleasant temperatures, farm-fresh

A

seasonal delicacies, family-friendly harvest celebrations, spooky amusements, spirited costume parties, and spine-tingling haunted horror. Whether you are looking for festive seasonal bazaars or

PHOTO BY COLEMAN LOCKE

PHOTO BY COLEMAN LOCKE

the creepy and bizarre, Fort Bend County has something for everyone this fall.

The musicians wear Halloween costumes for Hauntcert and invite the audience to dress up as well.

PHOTO BY COLEMAN LOCKE

Clarinetist Marilyn Conger (left) joins violinist Susan Lynch in costume for the Hauntcert at Sugar Land Town Square.

Violinst Becky Walker (left) and double bassist Artemis Herbruger are ready for the Hauntcert.

SEASONAL MUSIC AND DANCE

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PHOTO BY COLEMAN LOCKE

A Classical “Hauntcert”

One of the more cultured events this season will be the Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra’s spooky Hauntcert. Take the family in costume to Sugar Land Town Square on Friday, Oct. 30 at 7:30 p.m. to chill out with live seasonal music from the orchestra. The evening will start with a trunk or treat event for the kids and there will be a costume parade during the intermission. Conductor Dominique Røyem will lead the costumed musicians as they perform popular Halloween favorites, classics, and even songs from video games. Included on the program are Michael Jackson’s Thriller, In the Hall of the Mountain King, The Phantom of the Opera, the theme from Star Wars and more. The Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra is a full-size volunteer ensemble, complete with brass, woodwind, string and percussion instruments. The concert is free of charge. fbso.org

Violinists Becky Walker (left) and Meredith Holtam.

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Haute Halloween: A Michael Jackson Experience On Halloween night, head over to Sugar Land Town Square and let Michael Jackson Impersonator, Danny Dash Andrews, wow you with his performance of MJ’s iconic choreography. From 8-9 p.m., Dash will perform Thriller, Billie Jean, Beat It, Smooth Criminal and other great hits from the ’80s and ’90s. sugarlandtownsquare.com/play/upcoming-events

FAMILY-FRIENDLY

HALLOWEEN CELEBRATIONS Missouri City Tricks and Treats in the Park

Dress up in your Halloween costumes and head out to Buffalo Run Park on Saturday, Oct. 24 from 4:30 -7 p.m.to enjoy an evening of family fun at Tricks and Treats in the Park. This event will kick off with a Monster Mile Fun Run, followed by a Tricks and Treats Trail which will include hay rides, a petting zoo, games, moonwalks, a pumpkin patch, photo station and more. missouricitytx.gov

City of Rosenberg BOO-berg On Oct. 24, the City of Rosenberg will host its annual Halloween BOO-berg event at the Seabourne Creek Nature Park. Children ages 10 and under are invited to come in costume for games and activities at this free holiday celebration. While there, check out the beautiful 164-acre nature park with walking, jogging, and biking trails, wetlands, a prairie restoration area, butterfly garden, and a four acre lake stocked with bass, perch and catfish. ci.rosenberg.tx.us

Sugar Land Town Square Halloween Town Halloween Town will return to Sugar Land Town Square on Sunday, Oct. 25 from 4-8 p.m. Witches, superheroes, princesses and others are invited for this evening of family-friendly holiday surprises. Halloween characters will roam Town Square inviting children to participate in activity stations

and attractions provided by local organizations and businesses. Winners of the costume contest will receive a spook-tacular prize pack.

Admission is free to the community and pets are welcome, particularly if they come in costume. No blood or gruesome horror elements, as Halloween Town is for friendly ghosts only. sugarlandtx.gov

Imperial Farmers Halloween Market The Imperial Farmers Market will offer trick-or-treating, a dog dress-up contest, live music, seasonal food, and face painting for its Halloween market on Oct. 31.

Gundermann Acres will bring a truckload of locally grown pumpkins perfect for carving. imperialsugarland.com/farmersmarket

All Hallow’s Day at the Park Visit the George Ranch Historical Park on Halloween day for All Hallows Day at the Park. Learn about how Halloween was celebrated over the past 100 years with fun historic games and activities, ghoulish ghost stories, a Halloween promenade and costume contest, trick AND treating, and an exciting scavenger hunt around the Park. The event is free with general admission. georgeranch.org

SPOOKY FAMILY SHOWS

Sugar Land Town Center Movie Under the Moon Take your family, friends, lawn chairs and popcorn to the Sugar Land Town Square Plaza on Saturday, Oct. 10 to enjoy a free showing of Hotel Transylvania, a funny animated movie in which Count Dracula runs an upscale monster resort kept secret from the human world. This Movie Under the Moon is sponsored by the First Colony Church of Christ. sugarlandtownsquare.com Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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Fort Bend Theatre Presents The Addams Family, A Musical Comedy The Fort Bend Theater is performing The Addams Family, a musical comedy about Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, who has grown up and fallen in love with a young man from a respectable family. Hilarity ensues when the Addams’ host a dinner for Wednesday’s “normal” boyfriend and his parents. The production runs through Oct. 11. fortbendtheatre.com

SCARY OUTINGS FOR THE BRAVE OF HEART Ghost Tours of Historic Richmond If ghoul hunting is your cup of tea, catch a ghost tour of the city of Richmond historic district. This walking tour includes stops along Morton Street, the old jail, and a hunt for the spirit of Deaf Smith, one of Sam Houston’s scouts during the Texas War for Independence. Tours will take place select Fridays and Saturdays from Oct. 11 through Nov. 1. texastourconnection.com

Eerie Lectures and Tours at Fort Bend Museum Stop by the Fort Bend Museum on Oct. 2 for lectures on Spooks, Spectrals and Spirits; and Mourning Traditions and Graveyard Symbolism. Then, check back on Oct. 29 and 30 for the All Hallows Eve house tour or the Museum ghost tour. fortbendmuseum.org

Ghosts & Grub On Halloween night, the George Ranch Historical Park invites adults and children ages 12 and older for dinner and a spooky tour around the park. Guests will enjoy a delightful dinner at the 1830s log cabin where they will learn about Richmond’s very own local headless horseman story. After dinner, guests will take a candlelight walking tour of the 1860s Ryon Prairie Home, the 1890s Davis Mansion and the 1930s George Cattle Complex to hear ghost stories from the past. This tour will involve more than a mile of walking. Reservations required and tickets are non-refundable. georgeranch.org

5K RunDead Zombie Run Zombie enthusiasts, don’t miss the Houston Zombie run on Saturday, Nov. 7 at Sugar Land Memorial Park. For this spooky event, participants run a 5K course while trying to avoid the ravenous undead.

Runners will have flags that represent their health, and zombies will try to steal those flags. Participants must make it to the finish line with at least one flag or become one of the walking dead. Prizes will be awarded for runners and zombies.

5krundead.com

RedRum Haunt Experience For a truly terrifying experience, check out RedRum in Richmond, the three-part Halloween fright fest. The contagion attraction at RedRum is an outdoor laser tag experience that will test your bravery against hostile, disease-infected foes. The Twisted Circus is a horrifying freak show like no other circus you have ever seen. Deadwood Asylum is a gruesome institutional facility possessed by an unnerving demonic energy. RedRum will operate from Oct. 2 to Nov. 1. redrumhaunt.com l

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FALL FESTIVALS Fort Bend Family Fall Festival

On Saturday, Oct. 10, check out the Fort Bend Family Fall Festival at Constellation Field. This seasonal celebration will include a 5K fun run, entertainment, vendors, vintage car show, art show, petting zoo, face painting, pumpkin patch, pumpkin painting, hay rides, and a dunk tank. There will also be judged chili and gumbo cook-offs. Funds raised will benefit Mental Health America in Fort Bend. web.fortbendchamber.com

Sugar Land First United Methodist Harvest Craft Fair The United Methodist Women will hold the popular Harvest Craft Fair in the Great Hall and Education Center of the church on Saturday, Oct. 24 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

The fair specializes in seasonal items, unique hand crafted art, jewelry, candles, pottery, woodworking and clothes. In addition to shopping, there will be food, a silent auction and a bake sale. sugarlandmethodist.org

Holy Cross Episcopal Church Pumpkin Patch Make plans to take the whole family to the Holy Cross Episcopal Church in Sugar Land for fun, food and pumpkins. The pumpkin patch begins Oct. 9 and is open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through the end of October.

Saturdays and Sundays feature a full menu of activities, including live entertainment, a family photo booth, food and drinks, hayrides, a hay maze, bounce house, coloring station, and face painting. holycrosschurch.com/events/patch

Sugar Land Baptist Church Pumpkinfest On Saturday, Oct. 31, from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. bring the family to Pumpkinfest at the church. Kids can Trunk R Treat, enjoy inflatable games and Bouncy House, and mingle with goats, rabbits, ducks and a mini horse at the Petting Zoo. sugarlandbaptist.org

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2015 Sugar Land Superstar Winner !

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career,” she said. Raivyn has also been inspired by the two brothers from Run-DMC, Rev. Run (aka Joseph Simmons) and Russell Simmons. “It’s not just their music that is meaningful to me. Their jouney of how they got where they are and their wisdom has been a big influence on me, both mentally and phystically.”

Raivyn been an Army reservist since she was 19. The military supports her career: next February, she will perform with the U.S. Army Soldier Show, which is a live, variety performance featuring the Army’s best singers and dancers who earn their spot through a rigorous audition process. After months spent rehearsing and training, the show travels to bases around the world between May and September.

The talented young woman plans to move to Los Angeles after the U.S. Army Soldier Show ends to work at being an independent artist. To see www.danielford.productions

By Mara Soloway Raivyn Hearne peror the Sugar Land Superstar formed A Song for finale in August, Raivyn Hearne You to win the chose to sing A Song for You, Superstar contest. written by Leon Russell. “I sing it all the time. The Donny Hathaway version is one that everybody loves. It’s classic and romantic,” she said. And from now on, she can consider it her good luck charm: Raivyn won first place as the 2015 Sugar Land Superstar, followed by first runner-up Hannah Berkowitz and second runner-up Reagan Johnson.

To get to those top spots, each contestant had to perform a 60-second a cappella audition in April, and from there, 24 contestants were chosen to compete in either Round 1 (June 20) or Round 2 (July 18). Five contestants from each of these rounds moved on to the finale on Aug. 15, which was performed in front of a Town Square crowd that spilled into the street.

A panel of three judges chose the winners of the first two rounds; during the finale, the crowd’s text message votes were also tallied along with judges’ votes.

Entrants had to be full-time residents of Fort Bend County and at least 14 years old. Raivyn, 21, lives in Missouri City, Hannah, 19, lives in Stafford and Reagan, 17, lives in Sugar Land.

Sugar Land Town Square merchants and restaurants and David Taylor Cadillac provided the prizes. The final three contestants each received flowers from House of Blooms. Raivyn also received a three-day Cadillac rental from David Taylor Cadillac; gift cards from Escalantes, The Ginger Mule, singing herself to sleep. Music was an everyGURU Burgers & Crepes, Japaneiros, day aspect of her life, until as a young girl, Jupiter Pizza & Waffles and Town Square; she watch an episode of Moesha that feaand one week of unlimited classes at tured a musical performance by the lead Revolution Studio. actress, R&B singer Brandy Norwood. “I Raivyn grew up singing in church, but wanted to be able to do that. That’s when I her mother says that even as a baby she was started dreaming about having a singing

www.danielford.productions

Raivyn Hearne wows the judges and the overflow crowd in Sugar Land Town Square

(L-R) Emcee Michele Fisher; Reagan Johnson, second runner-up; Raivyn Hearne, winner,; and Hannah Berkowitz, first runner-up.

Raivyn perform her original music and that of others, check out her Facebook and YouTube pages. l

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Online Quilt Auction to Raise Funds For Ovarian Cancer Research And Awareness Bidding open to all for 184 quilts in MD Anderson auction

Tree of Strength by Elizabeth Beck and Jan Cox

By Mara Soloway Photos By Shawn Green and Barbara Lynn fter several successful online quilt auctions in previous years, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is again holding an online quilt auction with donations of quilted artistry. Since 2008, MD Anderson has held an online quilt auction to benefit its Blanton-Davis Ovarian Cancer Research Program; it has been held every other year since 2011. The 2015 Online Quilt Auction will be held from Oct. 21 to Nov. 4. Bidding starts at noon CST on Oct. 21 and closes at 11:59 p.m. on Nov. 4.

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Through research funded in part by this auction, the Blanton-Davis Ovarian Cancer Research Program aims to develop effective screening methods and ultimately a cure for ovarian cancer.

To participate in the auction, bidders are encouraged to visit ovarianquilt.com and click on the “quilt auction” tab located on the upper left part of the page.

A portion of the 184 quilts donated for the auction – the largest number in the auction's history – will be on display Oct. 21-23 from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. at MD

Anderson’s Main Hospital, 1515 Holcombe Blvd. on the second floor at The Park near the Donor Wall.

The quilts vary in different shapes, sizes and color with styles ranging from modern art to traditional. The people who donate quilts have been affected by ovarian and other cancers individually or have a family member or friend who have been affected by cancer. Most of the quilters are from Texas and range in age from 40-70.

The donated quilts came from 33 states as well as the Netherlands.

Once the highest bidders have been determined, they will be contacted and given payment options. When payment has been received, the winner has the option to pick up their quilt on designated dates or have it mailed to them.

Whether quilts are made for pleasure, practical reasons or as creative expression, each has a story behind it. Venetta Morger’s is one of recovery from cancer and anguish from losing family members from it. At 60, Venetta is a long distance runner, a member of The Woodlands Area Quilt Guild and in remission from breast cancer two years after treatment at MD Anderson.

Of Venetta and her eight siblings, five have the BRAC1 genetic mutation that can cause a higher risk of ovarian and breast cancer, include a brother. Four have had cancer. Additionally, her mother died from ovarian cancer 35 years ago.

“In the past five years, my youngest sister was diagnosed with Stage IV ovarian cancer at age 40 and has since passed.

Another sister, at age 50, was diagnosed with Stage IIIc ovarian cancer, who just experienced a recurrence and finished her second round of chemotherapy,” Venetta said. “And a sister, who survived breast cancer, was diagnosed with Stage IV ampullary cancer. She is now in hospice.”

While in the breast cancer support group, Venetta met Pamela Weems, pro-

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What Lies Within by Madelyn Bell

Breaking the Cycle by Sarah Jimenez

“Quilters have incredible hearts — so many donate to lots of charities.”

– Venetta Morger, survivor gram manager for the Blanton-Davis Ovarian Cancer Research Program. “Pamela told me about online quilt auction project. I’m a quilter and wanted to do something to help my family. The Ovarian Cancer Quilt Project is a platform to raise funds for needed research at MD Anderson,” she said.

The Online Quilt Auction has a special category called the Cherrywood Fabric challenge in honor of the company owner who passed away from ovarian cancer. Artists are invited to make quilts from fabric packets the company donates. Numerous other companies, fabric designers and artists also contribute to the auction.

Venetta used Cherrywood Fabric for her quilt titled “Circle of Flowers,” which has a flower in the middle symbolizing her mother, and a flower in each of the four corners symbolizing Venetta and her sisters who have been affected by cancer.

She has been on the auction’s steering committee for six years. “I’m honored to make a difference for women, who with their strength, generosity and heart are raising funds for better treatment and detection of ovarian cancer.”

The Online Quilt Auction also has a presence at the International Quilt Festival held every year in Houston, this year from Oct. 29 to Nov. 1. “This is a great venue for us to create awareness and to edu-

Starbright by The Wanna Bee from the Woodlands Area Quilt Guild

Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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cate women of the symptoms of ovarian cancer,” Venetta said.

In the days before mass production, quilting used to be a necessity and often created in a social setting. While the quilting bee is generally a thing of the past, creating quilts for auction that commemorate a loved one gives quilters a sense of community in a modern way.

“Quilting promotes healing in a number of ways. So many women know somebody who’s had ovarian cancer, living or passed, and friends make quilts in their honor. It's a sisterhood of creating art to express themselves and to commemorate somebody,” Venetta said. “Quilters have incredible hearts — so many donate to lots of charities. It’s really very humbling to know how much they give of their time and their resources.”

The Ovarian Cancer Quilt Project was established to educate the public about the risk factors and symptoms of ovarian cancer through the artistry of quilting.

Experts recommend that women see

their health care provider, preferably a gynecologist, if they experience any of the following unexplained conditions almost daily for more than a few weeks: • bloating, • pelvic or abdominal pain, • difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, • and frequent and/or urgent need to urinate.

The online auction has become more popular each year that it is held and thus more effective at raising funds for ovarian cancer research. In 2011, 153 quilts and raised $39,000. In 2013, 141 quilts were auctioned, bringing in $51,000.

For a sneak preview of the quilts to be featured in the auction, go to Facebook and search for “Ovarian Cancer Quilt Project.”

For more information about the Ovarian Cancer Quilt Project and how to make a donation to the 2017 Online Quilt Auction, call 713-792-2765 or email gynonccommunityrelations@mdanderson.org. l

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ç By Lori Verderame

Dumpster or No Dumpster™?

The back-to-school items edition

D

umpster or No Dumpster™ is a game I developed and play with folks during my TV appearances, at my antiques appraisal events and on my Facebook page. It’s a fun way to help guide them through the process of figuring out what to trash and what’s worth cash!

When you are cleaning out an attic, basement, storage unit or vacant home, and you come across old items that you don’t know the worth of, remember they could have significant monetary value. Get an inhome appraisal first if you have a whole houseful of stuff.

Get ready to play using the five back-to-school items below. Which items would you toss in the dumpster?

1. A Munsters TV show lunchbox, circa 1970s 2. A classroom set of instructional cursive writing panels, circa 1960s 3. A macaroni picture frame, circa 1980s 4. Pokemon trading cards, circa 1990-2000s 5. A United States history textbook, circa 1965 1. Lunchboxes have been highly recognizable collectibles since the early 1930s. When cartoon characters, celebrities and athletes appeared on lunchboxes in the 1950s, they became widely desirable. The Munsters TV show lunchbox from the 1970s featuring characters Herman, Lily and Eddie is a keeper. Value: $175-$250 2. You are cleaning out your Aunt Christine’s house. She was an elementary school

A Munsters lunchbox from the 1970s can be worth from $175 to $250.

teacher and has some of the instructional cursive writing panels that were once posted above chalkboards in American classrooms. Do these items get relegated to the dumpster?

These teaching aids helped children learn to write in cursive letters. Some of you may remember them, but there is a generation of millennials who were never taught cursive writing. With the introduction of personal computers, teaching cursive writing became a thing of the past. Unlike other valuable classroom items, these cardboard alphabet letter forms can go to the dumpster. They aren’t worth much!

3. You have to keep the macaroni picture frame because a child in your life made it with love. Store it for the long term in a plastic storage bag within a plastic tub to prevent insects from it. Value: Sentimental and priceless!

4. Some Pokemon trading cards, circa 1999-2000s, are valuable today, and some perpetuate a longstanding myth.

Here is the real deal: Most Pokemon cards are worth $5 to $50 each. Some Pokemon cards, like the holographic version of Charizard from the first edition printed in 1999, bring big bucks from collectors. This card in excellent condition can command several hundreds to a few thousand dollars.

Another Pokemon card that gets a lot of press is the famous Pikachu Illustrator card. Important to know: this card was purportedly never released in English and never sold. It was a contest prize in Japan. It is believed that fewer than five such cards exist worldwide, and some say that each one is worth $20,000. In my expert opinion, it is not worth $20,000 because no comparable card has ever been sold. If another card like it

hasn’t sold for $20,000 then the illusive Pikachu Illustrator card isn’t worth $20,000.

Don’t buy the hype. Generally, if you find good condition Pokemon cards, keep them from the dumpster.

5. What about the old United States history textbook full of out-of-date information? Like outdated encyclopedias, old history textbooks aren’t worth much to collectors unless they are special editions, series, etc.

Most are best used for DIY or interior design projects, scrapbooking, etc. I’ve seen DIY bookcases made out of a wooden frame and gluedtogether old textbooks and a DIY table base of vintage books with a glass top, too. The colorful maps from these books can be used as a wall display with a vintage look.

Keep playing Dumpster or No Dumpster™ to discover which items are worth holding on to for the long term. l

Dr. Lori Celebrity Ph.D. antiques appraiser, Dr. Lori hosts antiques appraisal events worldwide. Dr. Lori is the star appraiser on Discovery channel. Visit www.DrLoriV.com, www.Facebook.com/DoctorLori, Lori Verderame on Google+ or call (888) 431-1010.

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Transitional Design Takes Dated Home from Drab to Sophisticated

W

Text by Cheryl Alexander Photography by Miro Dvorscak Interiors by Laura Manchee Designs Renovations by Perfecto’s Contracting

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hen a couple has been married for 40 years, life- and homestyle preferences are pretty well-defined and mutually understood. Additionally, when they’re longtime Houstonians, they know which part of town and which neighborhoods they are inclined to call home.

The couple found an area of town they loved that had beautiful trees, quiet streets and a family atmosphere. However, when they began to look at real estate, very few homes that fit their needs were listed in the area.

“We have three children and two grandchildren, so we knew we needed a large home and a large yard,” the wife said.

They eventually found an existing home with a backyard where the grandkids could run and play and an interior floor plan that was a nice fit for their lifestyle, but design-wise it was not suited to their taste at all. The dark, stained wood in every room was overpowering; the granite surfaces in all areas of the house were absolute black with

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Couple sees potential in older home.

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PREVIOUS PAGES: A Dorian Webb chandelier from their former residence finds a new home in the breakfast room and is enhanced with the addition of Murano glass. | The breakfast room reflects the client’s love of nature with artwork by Chicago mixed media artist Dolan Geiman.

THESE PAGES: In the dining room several of the homeowner’s antiques were repurposed including a mirror and wall clock. Red silk panels on the book shelves added texture and pop to the room. The custom rug is by Merida, chair seat fabric by Donghia, drapery shear fabric by Pollack and the chandelier, which features rock crystal accents, is by Robert Abbey. The fireplace was enhanced with a new marble surround and wood beam. | A large arch frames the kitchen and highlights the recessed ceiling. | Tucked under the staircase in the foyer is a Jonathan Adler Addison chair in a custom yellow velvet by Robert Allen with the JA Kismet side table.

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no variation; the three fireplaces were boring and nondescript; faux-painted columns inside the entry and in a theater room were confining; black iron decorative finishes both inside and out were heavy; and every room had contractor-grade niches and built-ins of some sort. In this case, more was definitely too much.

Looking past those things, however, the couple was able to see the home’s potential.

The kitchen has a great view from large windows to the backyard. The breakfast room and living room are open to the space. They knew the grandkids could play in the backyard, and the grownups could easily keep an eye on them; they knew they could comfortably entertain family and friends; and they knew that with some

changes it could be a place where they could feel content.

Commencing on a renovation requires lots of planning and in most cases a team of creative professionals. The couple decided to enlist the assistance of someone with whom they’d previously worked on two other homes: Laura Manchee of Laura Manchee Designs.

“Laura is like the best friend who has exquisite taste in clothes,” said the wife.

“She knows her clients and what makes their lifestyle ‘wearable.’ She’s honest if she thinks something’s not going to work and can get you to stretch a bit outside your comfort zone, which in the end, feels great.”

And because they had worked with Laura before, the couple were familiar Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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with her team. “Laura and everyone associated with her are easy to work with. We trust her implicitly.”

The goals of the renovation were to lighten up the house, divest it of the nonessentials and put the new homeowners’ fingerprint on the home. Along with input from the designer, the couple drew their inspiration from nature to create a warm, cozy beautiful and livable place where friends and family would feel relaxed enough to put their feet up.

They decided to use color and new lighting to brighten and personalize. They began the work in the kitchen, which was the biggest part of the project.

The dark wood cabinets were painted with Sherwin Williams “Interesting Aqua” (SW 6220) and to add color, then Kevin Davis Wall Artisans glazed the cabinets for depth; the island was painted with Sherwin Williams “Moody Blue” (SW 6221); the massive, stained vent hood was replaced with a new custom stainless hood; new granite countertops and new backsplashes were installed; and the breakfast room and living areas were extended so that the space became one cohesive area. In the breakfast room, a floral valance was added and a colorful Dorian Webb chandelier from their former home was installed as the centerpiece. The multi-colored Murano glass in the chandelier provides a fun, festive aesthetic.

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THESE PAGES: The family room fireplace surround was changed to marble with a wood beam to coordinate with the dining area. The rug is by Stark and furnishings from Kravet. | In the powder room, metallic, flocked wallpaper “Fontette” from Osborne & Little covers the wall; vanity is a custom iron base with a cast-iron top; the mirror is also custom. Art and fresh bouquet add additional color. | The kitchen was painted and glazed by Kevin Davis Wall Artisans to brighten the space that was formerly all dark wood paneling. The new backsplash tile has a crackled glazed glass tile and helps lighten up the space, which has only a few small windows for limited natural light.

The custom vent hood is from Vent-a-Hood.

The renovation continued by addressing all of the initial concerns. The fireplaces were replaced with beautiful marble surrounds.

The mantels in two locations were replaced with rustic wood beams. The lackluster lighting was upgraded to suit the couple’s tastes.

All of the home’s primary fixtures and sconces were updated to define the areas they illuminate. Color was added everywhere. Silk panels were added to the bookcases in the dining room for a pop of red.

One grandson’s room became a playful blue; the guest room, a light pink; and the master, a spa blue. Color was also integrated in each

space through the rugs, upholsteries, art and accessories.

Some of the awkward niches and builtins, as well as architectural details that didn’t make sense were completely eliminated. For example, the large faux marble columns were removed from the entry to make it more expansive and welcoming.

The homeowners also embraced a new style in this home – transitional – different from their previous home, which was more traditional. Laura said, “I appreciate that this client was willing to explore new ideas, Their new style mixes contemporary eleFort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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This guest room reflects the homeowners’ feminine side with accents of pink in the bedding, window seat cushions, rug and lighting. A Kravet swivel chair upholstered in a Designers Guild hand-painted fabric is a room highlight. | Stained wood paneling in the library is original to the house. Natural elements are featured in the artwork and upholsteries. Rug by Feizy. Fireplace was updated with Aphrodite granite surround.

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ments with treasured antiques. We integrated some of their antique pieces into a cleaner envelope to create a fresher, more inviting aesthetic.”

Antique chairs were reupholstered in new contemporary fabrics in the dining and breakfast room. Antique tables and consoles were placed on contemporary rugs in more open/less cluttered environments, so those pieces become part of the decoration in the space.

True to her nurturing instincts, the wife’s favorite part of the project was designing her grandchildren’s room — a place just for the kids to enjoy when they stay over. “Believe me when I say that my vision was more than realized,” she said. “Everyone wants to stay in that room. When I go in there, I feel like we actually accomplished what the whole purpose of buying this house was about. It was so much fun watching my boys’ room come together.”

She also favors the powder bath due to its jewel box elegance. The metallic flocked wallpaper with custom lighting, mirror and a custom vanity all come together stylistically. “The paper, the lighting, the sink, the art!

It gleams! When you turn on the light you feel like you are standing inside a work of art,” she said.

The kitchen is the husband’s favorite. He said, “It’s a gathering area where I get show off my cooking skills.”

However, no renovation project is without challenges. The couple’s former home sold much faster than they had anticipated, so they were in limbo for a month before they could move into the new home.

Once they did, they lived out of the master bedroom/ bath, front living area and the husband’s office until the renovation was complete.

With a primary goal of creating a vibrant fun space for the couple and their extended family to enjoy, the spaces in the home had to be flexible and comfortable to accommodate all ages. The fabric and furniture selections now fit the couple’s lifestyle; the open spaces facilitate family get-togethers; and there are plenty of “kid friendly” play areas for the grandchildren.

Though they were initially afraid the house might always feel stuffy, now the open floor plan downstairs flows easily and continues right up the stairs. “The finished project is even more wonderful than our initial vision. We love being in every room. It feels like we are home.” l

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Furniture and Interior Design Trends — A Fusion of Styles Inspiring ideas to create interesting living spaces

By Melanie Saxton ach year, we are treated to a host of trends, many based on offerings from elite brands and top design experts.

Here are some defining furniture and interior accents that can be incorporated into our living spaces.

E

Vanguard’s Brendle Bench in Ripley Crimson makes a statement at the foot of a bed. Finished in Langdon with a Valentino Graphite contrast welt and optional brushed nickel ferrules, it complements the antler accent on the wall.

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Trending, Then and Now As for specific furniture and interior design trends, you’ll find a variety of opinions and a fusion of styles, materials and décor.

According to Zillow Digs design expert Kerrie Kelly, "Unexpected textures and an eclectic, modern vibe found their way in 2015.

Expect to see a more sophisticated look that incorporates gold hardware, natural textures, and a subtle mid-century modern undertone."

The latter part of her statement refers to the mid-20th century design movement ranging from the 1930s through the 1960s that influenced architecture, furniture and home interiors for generations. The popularity of mid-century modern experienced a renaissance after the publication of Cara Greenberg’s 1983 book Mid-Century Modern: Furniture of the 1950s (Random House). Now it has resurfaced again, thanks in part to the television show Mad Men. Since airing in 2007, weekly broadcasts have romanticized the simplicity of that nostalgic era. Check your local showroom floor for the clean lines and classic tapered legs of midcentury modern.

We can count on additional trends, as well — including the use of Pantone’s Color of the Year,

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Marsala. According to Marie Wood, Director of Design, Meridien, “Due to the underlying brown tones in the color, it works very well with neutrals, animal prints, golds and warm tones.” We see this rich, pleasing tone in established furniture collections that have been on showroom floors for years – and are still available. We also find it in exciting new collections available in 2015, including the neutral hues, animal influences, gold tones and overall warmth mentioned by Wood.

The following details may help homeowners incorporate these trending ideas into upholstery selections, accents and furniture style options.

A Nod to Neutrals Neutrals provide the blank canvases on which interior designers create living spaces. Beige, in fact, is confirmed as an ongoing favorite according Michael Boodro, editor-inchief of Elle Décor. Earlier this year he tweeted, “With all the color in Paris this week, beige isn't going away as #Farrow&Ball make clear.”

Wallpaper continues to trend and can provide a neutral backdrop for an entire room. Many sofas on today’s showroom floors are available in neutrals and look splendid against a solid or patterned rug.

Accent pillows and decorative throws can infuse a contrasting pop of color.

Animal Inspirations Animal influences continue to trend.

Exciting splashes of zebra, leopard and cheetah can be found in pillows, throws, rugs and upholstery, often adding an exotic component to a room. Rustic nature elements are also popular – you might be tempted to hang an artful rack of antlers on a wall!

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(Left) “Paula’s Table” is from the Paula Deen Home collection, shown in Tobacco. Also shown is the Upholstered Side Chair and four of “Mike’s Side Chair.” This furniture has been inspired by Paula's life in the South and her home in Savannah. It's all about feeling good, safe and comfortable in one's home. • The Wrigley occasional chair from Klaussner Home Furnishings reinvents the notion of style with a look that is urbane and sophisticated. The sleek profile, tight seat and back cushions, roll arms plus tall tapered fluted legs create a welcoming feel.

The Salon Upholstered Panel Bed by Bernhardt has beautifully upholstered button-tufted headboard, footboard and side rails, with an alabaster finish on feet and a three slat support system with adjustable center support. Also available in standard ivory leather.

Leather sofas and chairs are a perennial favorite, now available from many manufacturers in a variety of colors and textures. Cow prints in classic black and white are also finding more interior use, along with brown and white, and even dappled real hides. More commonly utilized as rugs, “hair on hide” is also an upholstery choice found on sofas, chairs and ottomans.

Mixed Metals Last year saw a resurgence of gold touches throughout homes, and this year is no exception. Gold-inspired sheens have appeared in everything from upholstered panel beds to lamps.

Also this year, a luxurious ambiance of mixed metals such as

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Baker Furniture’s Lola Chaise from the Laura Kirar Collection represents the ultimate in modern elegance, with its angular and multi-faceted design. Its form speaks to the elegance of the Deco Era, while its geometric and complex lines allude to contemporary design. The chaise is an ideal complement for a boudoir or living room.

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Three distinctive chairs from Jessica Charles: (left) The Mamie Chair has a classic silhouette. The sophisticated details, including Geo print and ivory wood legs, make this a favorite accent for living spaces. (center) The Hollans Chair features a muted floral print which lends a romantic touch.

A deep diamond tufted back adds depth while the soft Bisque wood finish complements the dusted mauve fabric. Its narrow width is ideal for fitting in apartments or small houses. (right) The Estate Chair lends understated elegance with its button tufted back and slim tapered legs. An eye-catching graphic print in a muted color complements the medium oak wood finish on the legs.

Hooker Furniture’s Dining Room Sanctuary Rectangle Dining Table, shown in Dune finish on the base and Amber Sands finish on top , offers a neutral creamy, cottage feel. Create your own personal sanctuary where you can experience comfort.

The Woodbury Console Table from Bernhardt Furniture features a fancy face diamond pattern top with metal center inset, metal corner brackets and carved leg posts.

The Curved Back Sofa from the Barbara Barry Collection at Baker is a contemporized crescent sofa.

The back has three loose cushions, a shaped bench seat and a slope arm. The arm actually holds the seat in a crisp, contemporary way. The square tapered legs flare in the back. This sofa was designed to float in a rotunda - or anywhere a room divider might be necessary. Shown in Java.

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iron, steel and even gunmetal are trending, as well as the more common brass.

Michael Boodro announced via Twitter: “Copper continues its strong presence.”

Warm, Saturated Tones Homeowners seldom go wrong when utilizing upholstery options in warm tones, but careful balance creates a pleasing aesthetic. Interior designers often intersperse warm hues with neutral, pastel and cool tones to avoid overwhelming a room. In fact, Benjamin Moore’s 2015 color trends features four color families that encompass this principle – green, blue, blush and berry paints.

As always, fireplace accents on decorated mantels and hearths can provide a focal point. Mirrors, especially oversized, capture and reflect warmth.

Candles, window treatments, chandeliers, artwork and flooring are also effective accents that help wrap a living space in a warm embrace.

Elegance & Whimsy Luxurious textures and sophisticated accents add to the beauty of home interiors, especially when combined with “just the right” furniture.

Showrooms offer options that are not only functional, but also invite homeowners to discover their own personal aesthetic. But there is also an element of fun and caprice on showroom floors today, and 2015 is an opportunity to see alluring design potential through a new lens. A kaleidoscope of wood tones, a virtually unlimited amount of upholstery choices and striking decorative pieces allow homeowners to experiment with style.

It never hurts to consult with an expert who can help separate fads from truly sustainable design. These interior design specialists take into account your personal tastes and blend exquisite – and sometimes surprising – décor into your home environment. l

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SUGAR LAND AND FORT BEND ADVERTISING

THE DUMP STAR FURNITURE Star’s enduring commitment to style and quality at an affordable price is why generations of Texans trust Star to furnish their homes. Having the largest selection of fashionable home furnishings in the state isn't the only reason folks shop here! The talented staff of design experts can help you transform an ordinary room into a space you’ll love. Whether it’s a custom sofa, a fine rug, or an entire home makeover, their complimentary in-store design service will offer you an affordable solution for your next decorating project. starfurniture.com Sugar Land/Fort Bend: 19660 Hwy 59 S. 281-342-7827 Katy/W. Houston: 16666 Barker Springs Rd. 281-492-5494

THE DESIGN FIRM For over 30 years, The Design Firm has been Houston's most acclaimed interior design agency. Synonymous with luxury and sophistication, their philosophy has propelled them to be the watchword of interior design, not only in Houston, but across the U.S. Find them on Facebook, Twitter, and Houzz.

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THE BILLIARD FACTORY The Billiard Factory is a family owned company that remains committed to offering customers a large, diverse product line from the top manufacturers in the home game room industry. They continually search for ways to best serve the needs of their customers through diversity and quality products, as well as superior service. Save 20% on service.

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America’s off-price outlet for high-end furniture, handmade mattresses and fine oriental rugs is right here in Houston. The outlet opens at 10 a.m. every Friday with an everchanging selection of closeouts, overstocks, design samples and one-of-a-kind opportunity buys from top designers. They Dump the frills, pretense and costs of regular stores, and voila!

You get high-end home furnishings at 30 to 70% off price.

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KATY FURNITURE DAVID ORIENTAL RUGS David Oriental Rugs, the most trusted in the rug industry, announces a new arrival of elegant rugs! David's expertise is reflected in the extravagant selection of oriental and vintage rugs with a variety of design options acquired over 30 years. Visit the showroom today and treat yourself to a taste of luxury.

They are located between LBX Lighting and Timberline Flooring.

713-266-7772 3215-3221 Fondren Rd. Second Floor, Houston davidorientalrugs.com

Looking to buy new furniture for your home? Never pay retail again at Katy Furniture. Wholesale to the public with all the most popular brands. Check out their website for the latest specials or visit the store in person. Open Monday thru Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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Plantation Furniture is your store. Plantation Furniture is the small family-owned furniture boutique offering you something other than "as shown." For 34 years they have been furnishing the homes of Fort Bend County. You Design. They Deliver. NOW! 281-341-7788 plantationfurniture.com 1247 FM 359, Richmond

Located at Post Oak and San Felipe, Town and Country Leather has Houston's finest selection of leather furniture, occasional tables, area rugs and accessories. Choose from instock styles for immediate delivery or custom order the configuration and color to suit your home. Check out the curated selection from quality brands like Natuzzi Editions, Bernhardt, Flexsteel and Palliser.

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HALL LIGHTING AND DESIGN All your decoration shopping at one time in one place during this Victoria, Texas showroom’s 8th Annual Christmas Spectacular. Fully decorated trees, an enormous ornament selection, table top designs, unique arrangements, Santas, nativity scenes, even fashion gifts, e.g. necklaces, handbags, rings and watches.

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THE DESIGN SOURCE TWENTY-TWO FIFTY INTERIORS Deck your halls with the help of the TwentyTwo Fifty Interiors Team! The holiday season is fast approaching and the ladies are hard at work preparing for Santa’s big arrival. Their store will be transformed into a Christmas Wonderland for their annual Holiday Open House. For more details about in-home holiday decorating, please call the Twenty-Two Fifty Interiors Team or stop by their Open House on Thursday, October 29, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m!

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Change your bedding and pillows…brighten your room with a splash of white on your bed, or add a different color to your current bedding to create a new look. The Design Source can help you find a new look that makes you smile. Our store has unique wonderful pieces, stop by and see us.

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CRU HOME An historic 100+-year-old home turned lovely little design shop, Cru Home offers everything from one-of-a-kind gifts to interior design services and workshops. You are invited to pay them a visit, shop and stay awhile. Their specialties include in-store and on-site interior consultations and design services, home, holiday and garden workshops, party decorating, home staging, personal shopping and gifting services.

281-969-7605 cruhome.com 6726 Highway 6, Missouri City

Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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Your Dream Outdoor Living Space Follow the trends to transform your backyard

By Merry Wise rends in swimming pools, spas and the entire outdoor living scene have changed. What used to be considered “just a backyard” has been transforming to an outdoor room space for total enjoyment.

From sophisticated sleek to wooded retreat, the trends in design, updates in technology and a plethora of spectacular new materials now combine to create a complete experience.

Zen is in. One of the most elegant trends in pool and spa design is the minimalist, mirrored effect of still water that appears to slip silently into a surrounding deck or vanish over

T

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an edge. These effects can be achieved in a number of ways — from a raised perimeter with the water sheeting down on all sides, to a flat “wetted edge” effect achieved with water slipping into a slot into the deck into piping that is hidden under the deck.

There are some edgy ways to incorporate a spa into this design as well — the spa can appear to float within the pool, or the wetted edge can continue over to the spa and around the edge of the spa. Simple materials in dark or muted colors usually complement this look best, keeping the theme neutral and classy.

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CLOSET FACTORY SERVICE EXPRESS The company specializes in Indoor Air Quality, air duct sanitization and cleaning, using the latest and most powerful industrial strength technology available. They use HEPA negative filters and gas vacuums to clean your vents, returns, duct lines, and all main trunk lines up to the attic. Their sanitization process is according to NADCA and EPA guidelines.

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From simple storage solutions to spectacular room improvements, Closet Factory can enhance your closet, office, media center, pantry, garage and more. Make arrangements for a free in-home consultation with a Professional Design Consultant and be on your way to making life easier and more organized. 281-810-9066 closetfactory.com

WATERSIDE POOLSCAPES With over 20 years of pool building experience, the Waterside Poolscapes team will work with you to design the perfect custom pool and spa. They can design and build for you a complete backyard experience that includes outdoor kitchens, water features, fire pits, patio covers and more. Call today for a FREE consultation.

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HAMRE’S REMODELING & FLOORING Serving Fort Bend County since 1997 Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling Whole House Interior Renovation Mid-Continent Cabinetry Carpet, Wood Floors, Tile 281-494-9200 HamresRemodeling.com 4111 Greenbriar Drive, Stafford

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Kitchen & Bath Remodeling However, a completely different ambience can take your outdoor fun space from zen to zowie with water movement! When space for a pool is not an issue, especially in a country place, some families are opting for their own lazy river water park right in their own backyard! Waterfalls, grottoes, elaborate slides, caves and even rope swings add to the fun of a personal water park.

Misting systems add to the atmosphere of a rustic design. And adding fire features elevate the wow factor at night!

Whether tucked into waterfalls or added as a cozy fire pit surrounded by seating, fire and water together are magic.

Another trend is a bridge across the pool, and this can be fitted with a rain shower splashing water down from hidden piping with tiny holes on either side of the bridge. A pool and spa emphasizing the movement of water, and the joy of moving in water, definitely creates a fun and satisfying environment!

Fire and water together are magic, whether tucked into waterfalls or added as a cozy fire pit surrounded by seating.

Some homes lend themselves best to classic styles, but even these have updates that can be more exciting with newer special water effects. Laminar fountains lend themselves especially well to these pools. A laminar water feature is usually placed at the corners of the pool and shoots a narrow arch of water into the center of the pool, often meeting in the middle from all four corners. These now have color changing light effects that can be gorgeous at night. Other classic sheer descent fountains, bubbler fountains and water cascading down a stepped fountain or from a high columnar arch add the right touch to the classic pool, and all can now be fitted with the light effects. Fire bowls are another dramatic effect to update the classic pool design.

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SUGAR LAND AND FORT BEND ADVERTISING

EZ FLOORS EZ Floors has the flooring and countertops to finish any remodeling project. Luxurious carpet in the bedroom. Elegant hardwood flooring in the living and dining rooms. And timeless tile in the kitchen, bath and entry. They highly value your complete satisfaction with their products and service. Their philosophy is very simple: if you are pleased with your shopping experience, they are confident you will share it with others and continue to use EZ Floors for all your floor covering needs. ezfloorsonline.com 20680 Westheimer Parkway, #150 281-647-0777 1557 W. Sam Houston Pkwy. N, #110 713-465-6741 See website for other locations.

CUSTOM COMFORT A/C AND HEATING Connect to your thermostat your way.

Lennox’ icomfort Wi-FiTM is more than a thermostat. When connected to your home wireless network, it opens up a whole new world of convenience and control, including the ability to monitor and adjust your temperature from anywhere in the world. Call Custom Comfort today and let their expert and professional team help you. 281-342-2512 CustomComfortAir.com

GOLD STAR DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION At Gold Star Design and Construction customer service and quality craftsmanship is their biggest priority. From the smallest project to the largest and most complex remodel, Gold Star will provide professional and sincere customer service. Gold Star specializes in kitchen and bathroom remodels, room additions, home repair, complete interior design and remodels as well as custom cabinets. Call today for your free consultation and estimate.

281-206-7274 or 281-832-5163 goldstardesignandconstruction.com 10815 Warwana Road, Suite 302, Houston

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TEXAS CUSTOM PATIOS They custom design and build patio covers (attached and freestanding), outdoor kitchens, screened porches, room additions, decorative patios, decks and more. The latest trends and products will transform your backyard but maintain your home’s original architecture and add value, beauty and function all year. Well known for their exceptional professionalism, seamless construction and excellent workmanship. Texas Custom Patios is a BBB Gold Star winner. Call for a free consultation or view their project portfolio online.

281-265-1994 texascustompatios.com

SERVICE MASTER SOUTHWEST CABINETS & DESIGNS Visit Cabinets & Designs to experience the infinite possibilities of a high-concept showroom.

For 40 years this family-owned business has specialized in lifestyle designs for home and office.

They are the #1 Wood-Mode Lifestyle Design Showroom, and their mission is to help clients create personalized living and working spaces.

When you visit their showroom, mention seeing their ad and you will receive a complimentary Dexas Flexi Cutting Board.

“Hoarding is a disorder that troubles other people, not me. Oh I have my piles, but I'm not emotionally tied to them. I just haven’t had time to ‘put things away.’ I work long hours and have other things to do. I'll get to it ‘soon’ and then I will ‘clean that room.’ ” If this sounds familiar, give SERVICEMASTER SOUTHWEST a call. They can help with a plan that cleans up that clutter once and for all. 281-242-5777 ServiceMasterSouthWest.com

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We put our everything in every project Professional - Sincere - Real Customer Service

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The choices of materials and addition of outdoor kitchens, outdoor television sets, game areas and al fresco dining arrangements also completely transform the standard backyard into the outdoor room. Glass tile in lush colors — some that glow in the dark and special pebble interior materials for pools and spas — add both beauty and durability to today’s pools. Decking materials run a wide gamut to create just the right effect for the trend you wish to create.

With the wide variety of cooking accoutrements available now for outdoor use, you may find yourself cooking in your regular kitchen less and less and enjoying the outdoors more and more! Everything from BBQ grills to pizza ovens has become standard for today’s summer kitchen, which in our climate becomes a good year-round investment. Elegant outdoor furniture completes the comfort zone, and now a wide variety of game trends are available. One clever addition is an outdoor billiards table that converts to a dining table! Some even convert to ping pong tables.

But one of the most innovative changes in the backyard environment is the electronic equipment available for “touch of a button” convenience.

You can monitor the pool operation and condition while away on vaction, or turn on the spa to be ready for a relaxing evening when the car pulls into the driveway. Similar electronics are available for the other equipment, lighting, etc., around the yard.

The ideal times to create the backyard environment of your dreams, utilizing as many of the trends as your imagination and budget can incorporate, are the fall and winter months.

Designers, craftsmen and builders are able to devote their full attention to your project, and you can take your time and truly create an outdoor paradise.

So, picture yourself in the pool of your dreams, and get started making that dream a reality, surrounding it with a space to make your backyard into a trendsetter! l

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To find a remodeler, please go to GHBA.ORG

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What Are the Risk Factors for Breast Cancer?

A look at lifestyle choices and other possible concerns

A

risk factor is anything that affects your chance of getting a disease, such as cancer. Different cancers have different risk factors. For example, exposing skin to strong sunlight is a risk factor for skin cancer. Smoking is a risk factor for cancers of the lung, mouth, larynx, bladder, kidney, and several other organs.

But risk factors don’t tell us everything.

Having a risk factor, or even several, does not mean that you will get the disease. Most women who have one or more breast cancer risk factors never develop the disease, while many women with breast cancer have no apparent risk factors (other than being a woman and growing older).

Some risk factors, like a person’s age or race or gender, can’t be changed. Simply being a woman is the main risk factor for developing breast cancer — it is about 100 times more common among women than men. And the risk of developing breast cancer increases as you age. About one out of eight invasive breast cancers are found in

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women under 45, while about two of three invasive breast cancers are found in women age 55 or older.

Then there are genetic risk factors. About 5 to 10 percent of breast cancer cases are thought to be hereditary, meaning that they result directly from gene defects (called mutations) inherited from a parent. The most common cause of hereditary breast cancer is an inherited mutation in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. In normal cells, these genes help prevent cancer by making proteins that keep the cells from growing abnormally. If you have inherited a mutated copy of either gene, you have a high risk of developing breast cancer in your lifetime.

Other risk factors are linked to cancercausing factors in the environment. Still others are related to personal behaviors, such as smoking, drinking, and diet. Some factors influence risk more than others.

Here is an overview of breast cancer risk factors related to lifestyle choices, as well as those factors that are considered

unclear or controversial, courtesy of the American Cancer Society.

LIFESTYLE-RELATED FACTORS Having Children Women who have had no children or who had their first child after age 30 have a slightly higher breast cancer risk overall.

Having many pregnancies and becoming pregnant at a young age reduce breast cancer risk overall.

Birth Control Oral contraceptives: Studies have found that women using birth control pills have a slightly greater risk of breast cancer than women who have never used them. This risk seems to go back to normal over time once the pills are stopped. Women who stopped using oral contraceptives more than 10 years ago do not appear to have any increased breast cancer risk. When considering the use of oral contraceptives, women

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should discuss their other risk factors for breast cancer with their health care team.

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| Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

Julie Baldwin, P.A.-C

Hormone Therapy After Menopause Hormone therapy with estrogen (often combined with progesterone) has been used for many years to help relieve symptoms of menopause and to help prevent osteoporosis (thinning of the bones). Earlier studies suggested it might have other health benefits as well, but these benefits have not been found in more recent, better-designed studies. This treatment goes by many names: post-menopausal hormone therapy (PHT), hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and menopausal hormone therapy (MHT).

There are two main types of hormone therapy. For women who still have their uterus, doctors generally prescribe both estrogen and progesterone (known as combined hormone therapy or HT). Progesterone is needed because estrogen alone can increase the risk of uterine cancer. For women who’ve had a hysterectomy, estrogen alone can be prescribed.

This is known as estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) or just estrogen therapy (ET).

Studies have shown that using combined hormone therapy after menopause increases the risk of getting breast cancer. It may also increase the chances of dying from breast cancer. The use of estrogen alone after menopause does not appear to increase the risk of breast cancer.

Breastfeeding Some studies suggest that breastfeeding may slightly lower breast cancer risk, especially if it is continued for 1½ to two years.

But this has been a difficult area to study, especially in countries such as the U.S. where breastfeeding for that long is uncommon. One explanation for this possible effect may be that breastfeeding reduces a woman’s total number of lifetime menstrual cycles. Women who have had more menstrual cycles because they started having periods early (before age 12) and/or went through menopause late (after age 55) have a slightly higher risk of breast cancer. The increase in risk may be due to a longer lifetime exposure to the hormones estrogen and progesterone.➝

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Reshape Your Body in 20 Minutes!

When Diane Rand reached age 50, she got concerned that her weight was slowly creeping higher and her clothes were feeling too tight. As a practicing physician in San Diego, she knew the diagnosis. “Your muscles atrophy as you age, and this slows down the metabolism,” says Rand. “I knew it would keep getting worse if I didn’t correct it.” The antidote? Effective weight training. But, she’d never lifted weights before. Plus, her full-time job as a physician as well as her family life left little time in her schedule for exercise.

Fortunately, Diane read an article about “slow-motion” strength training, a revolutionary new exercise method promising a firmer, stronger, more shapely body from just two 20-minute training sessions per week. Even though the time efficiency and results sounded almost too good to be true, she decided to enroll with a personal trainer at The Perfect Workout, a local company with 39 private fitness studios throughout the United States specializing in this unique approach.

Right away she noticed immediate increases in her muscle tone and energy. After several months she’d also dropped 1 to 2 clothing sizes and was fitting into clothes which used to be too small. “My trainer pushes me in a safe way, and I walk away feeling great after each session,” says Diane. “This is the wave of the future.”

LEAN MUSCLES – THE KEY TO RESHAPING YOUR BODY

The Perfect Workout’s trainers encourage clients to build lean muscle tissue which increases the body’s metabolism, burning extra calories even while you’re sleeping.

Not only does the extra muscle help burn fat and calories, muscle takes up 20% less space than fat. So a fit 140pound person can wear clothes several sizes smaller than an out of shape 140-pound person. Adding muscle and losing fat will make your body firmer, smaller, and more shapely.

Slow-motion strength training involves brief and demanding workouts to get great results. The basic concept? Lift relatively heavy weights excruciatingly slowly (10 seconds to lift, another 10 seconds to lower) for as many repetitions as you can until you’re unable to move the weights anymore. And when you learn to challenge your muscles as deeply as a skilled trainer can teach, it’s impossible to workout much longer than 20 minutes, even if you try.

Dr. Philip Alexander, physician and Chief of Medicine Services at College Station Medical Center, explains that it’s

In 3 months Laura Retana Shelp lost 23.4 pounds and 10½ inches off her waist with improved nutrition and two 20-minute training sessions a week at The Perfect Workout. the intensity of exercise that stimulates greatest changes.

“A slower repetition loads the muscles more effectively and efficiently. It’s harder!” exclaims Alexander. “That’s why it stimulates such a great total response from the body.” Dr. Alexander has tracked hundreds of subjects using slow-motion strength training, noting significant improvements in muscular strength, HDL cholesterol profiles, bone density, and glucose tolerance.

Other research adds more supporting data. Two separate studies by Wayne Westcott, Ph.D., and one study

by Ellington Darden, Ph.D., demonstrate that slow-motion strength training produces 50% to 59% faster improvements than regular weight training. So you’ll not only save time, you’re going to get great results too.

The Perfect Workout has 44 private studios that specialize in one-on-one personal training with the slow-motion strength training method, including these Houston locations: Clear Lake (281) 456-3380, Cypress/N. Houston (832) 497-1121, Kingwood (281) 241-1628, Memorial (281) 724-5147, River Oaks (713) 999-5182, Sugar Land (281) 201-5309, The Woodlands (281) 245-0478

www.ThePerfectWorkout.com

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Personal and Quality Care from Adolescence to Pregnancy to Menopause SERVICES OFFERED • Well Woman Exams • Pregnancy and Delivery • 3D/4D OB Ultrasounds • Birth Control • In-Office Sterilization • Menstrual Disorders • Robotic and Laparoscopic GYN Procedures • And More

Drinking Alcohol The use of alcohol is clearly linked to an increased risk of developing breast cancer. The risk increases with the amount of alcohol consumed. Compared with non-drinkers, women who consume one alcoholic drink a day have a very small increase in risk. Those who have two to five drinks daily have about 1½ times the risk of women who don’t drink alcohol. Excessive alcohol consumption is also known to increase the risk of developing several other types of cancer.

Being Overweight or Obese Being overweight or obese after menopause increases breast cancer risk. Before menopause, your ovaries produce most of your estrogen, and fat tissue produces a small amount of estrogen. After menopause (when the ovaries stop making estrogen), most of a woman’s estrogen comes from fat tissue.

Having more fat tissue after menopause can increase your

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Some factors influence breast cancer risk more than others, and your risk can change over time due to aging or lifestyle. chance of getting breast cancer by raising estrogen levels.

Also, women who are overweight tend to have higher blood insulin levels, which have also been linked to some cancers, including breast cancer.

Physical Activity Evidence is growing that physical activity in the form of exercise reduces breast cancer risk. The main question is how much exercise is needed. In one study from the Women’s Health Initiative, as little as 1.25 to 2.5 hours per week of brisk walking reduced a woman’s risk by 18 percent. Walking 10 hours a week reduced the risk a little more.

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Diet and Vitamin Intake Many studies have looked for a link between what women eat and breast cancer risk, but so far the results have been conflicting. Some studies have indicated that diet may play a role, while others found no evidence that diet influences breast cancer risk. For example, a recent study found a higher risk of breast cancer in women who ate more red meat.

Studies have also looked at vitamin levels, again with inconsistent results. Some studies actually found an increased risk of breast cancer in women with higher levels of certain nutrients. So far, no study has shown that taking vitamins reduces breast cancer risk. This is not to say that there is no point in eating a healthy diet. A diet low in fat, low in red meat and processed meat, and high in fruits and vegetables might have other health benefits.

Most studies have found that breast cancer is less common

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in countries where the typical diet is low in total fat, low in polyunsaturated fat, and low in saturated fat. But many studies of women in the U.S. have not linked breast cancer risk to dietary fat intake.

Researchers are still not sure how to explain this apparent disagreement. It may be at least partly due to the effect of diet on body weight. Also, studies comparing diet and breast cancer risk in different countries are complicated by other differences (like activity level, intake of other nutrients, and genetic factors) that might also affect breast cancer risk.

More research is needed to understand the effect of the types of fat eaten on breast cancer risk. But it is clear that calories do count, and fat is a major source of calories. High-fat diets can lead to being overweight or obese, which is a breast cancer risk factor. A diet high in fat has also been shown to influence the risk of developing several other types of cancer, and the intake of certain types of fat is clearly related to heart disease risk.

Chemicals in the Environment A great deal of research has been reported and more is being done to understand possible environmental influences on breast cancer risk. Compounds in the environment that have estrogenlike properties are of special interest. For example, substances found in some plastics, certain cosmetics and personal care products, pesticides (such as DDE), and PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) seem to have such properties. These could in theory affect breast cancer risk.

This issue understandably invokes a great deal of public concern, but at this time research does not show a clear link between breast cancer risk and exposure to these substances. Unfortunately, studying such effects in humans is difficult.

More research is needed to better define the possible health effects of these and similar substances.

Tobacco Smoke For a long time, studies found no link between cigarette smoking and breast cancer. In recent years, however, more studies have found that long-term heavy

smoking is linked to a higher risk of breast cancer. Some studies have found that the risk is highest in certain groups, such as women who started smoking before they had their first child. The 2014 U.S. Surgeon General’s report on smoking concluded that there is “suggestive but not sufficient” evidence that smoking increases the risk of breast cancer.

Night Work Several studies have suggested that women who work at night — for example, nurses on a night shift — may have an increased risk of developing breast cancer.

This is a fairly recent finding, and more studies are looking at this issue. Some researchers think the effect may be due to changes in levels of melatonin, a hormone whose production is affected by the body’s exposure to light, but other hormones are also being studied.

CONTROVERSIAL OR DISPROVEN FACTORS As with any topic, Internet and e-mail rumors and misinterpretation of studies lead to the spreading of false information about the breast cancer risks of various factors. Based on the available evidence, little if any reason exists to believe that an increased risk of breast cancer is due to antiperspirants, bras, abortion and miscarriage, and breast implants.

Breast implants may be linked to a rare type of lymphoma called anaplastic large cell lymphoma that has rarely been found in the breast tissue around the implants. So far, though, too few cases exist to know if the risk of this lymphoma is really higher in women who have implants.

For more details on any of these factors, visit the American Cancer Society website, cancer.org/cancer/breastcancer/detailed -guide/breast-cancer-risk-factors. l

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ASSISTED LIVING Atria Assisted Living 1401 Soldiers Field Drive Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.494.4200

CARDIOLOGY Methodist Diagnostic Cardiology of Houston, P.A. 16651 Southwest Frwy., #400 Sugar Land, TX 77479 713.776.9500

COMPOUNDING PHARMACY Compounding Shop 11851-A Wilcrest Dr. Houston, TX 77031 281.495.2230 mycompoundingshop.com

DENTISTRY Anderson Dental Group 226 Fluor Daniel Drive 281.242.2040 6911 Highway 6 S., #202 281.498.0106 C & C Dental Timothy Cashion, D.D.S. and Teresa Cody, D.D.S. 17003 Southwest Frwy., Ste 100 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.815.4188 cashionandcodyonline.com Classic Dental Quynh Nguyen, DDS 5211 Highway 6 Missouri City, TX 77459 281-499-4467 A. Ebrahimian, D.D.S. Premier Dental 5814 New Territory Blvd.

Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.277.8787 PremierDentalDrE.com Jeffrey E. Fey, D.D.S. Cinco Ranch Dental 1150 S. Mason Rd #101 Katy, TX 77450 281.693.6300 Bret Davis, D.M.D. Rick L. Kline, D.D.S. 4665 Sweetwater Blvd., #450 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.265.7645 smiletexas.com

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Marlo Griesser, D.D.S. 11577 Highway 6 Sugar Land, TX 77498 281.313.5700 drgriesser.com Minhly D. Nguyen, D.D.S. Five Star Dentists 12125 Highway 6, Ste. D Fresno, TX 77545 281.431.8909 5stardentists.com Pisklak Orthodontics Carrie Pisklak, DDS, MS 6218 Hwy 6, Suite C Missouri City TX 77459 281-403-5599 pisklakorthodontics.com Keith Von Boeckmann, D.D.S. 7435 South Hwy. 6, Ste. A Missouri City, TX 77459 281.499.7645 radiantsmilesoftexas.com

DENTISTRY - PEDIATRIC James R. Stamper, D.D.S. 12000 Wilcrest, Ste. 207 Houston, TX 77031 281.495.8828 stamperkids.com Larry Caldwell, D.D.S. Dentistry for Children 15200 Southwest Frwy. #320 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.565.5437

DERMATOLOGY Pamela M. Carr, M.D., P.A. Board Certified Dermatologist 1111 Highway 6, Ste. 160 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.494.0034 carrderm.com Iris S. Polinger, M.D., Ph.D., P.A. Board Certified Dermatologist The Offices at Lake Pointe 1415 Hwy. 6 South Building C-400 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.491.9278 dririspolinger.com

| Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

David W. Powell, M.D. Board Certified Dermatologist 1327 Lake Pointe Pkwy., Ste.416 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.494.0050 powelldermatology.com

INTERNAL MEDICINE & PULMONARY DISEASES Dr. Benjamin Interiano, M.D F.A.C.P., F.C.C.P 7737 Southwest Frwy. #640 Houston, TX 77074 713.988.1699

EAR, NOSE & THROAT James C. Martin Jr., M.D., P.A. Houston Ear, Nose & Throat Clinic 16545 Southwest Frwy., Ste.100 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.649.7200

FAMILY PRACTICE Deirdre McMullen, M.D. 3281 Rocky Creek Dr. Ste. 500 Missouri City, TX 77459 281.206.0068 Drmcmullenclinic.com

Victor M. Salcedo, M.D Specializing in Asthma, Sleep Disorders, Pulmonary Diseases and Internal Medicine Houston Chest Internists 7737 Southwest Frwy. #570 Houston, TX 77074 713.777.4217

MEDICAL SUPPLIES Alief Medical Sales 11845 Wilcrest (Murphy @ S.W. Frwy.)

Houston, TX 77031 281.530.3232

GASTROENTEROLOGY Stanley H. Stein, M.D., P.A. Fort Bend Gastroenterology 17510 W. Grand Parkway S., Ste. 350 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.762.6300 drstanleystein.com

GENERAL SURGERY Southwest Surgical Associates, L.L.P 16651 Southwest Frwy., Ste. 360 Sugar Land, TX 77479 713.772.1200 17510 W Grand Pkwy S. Ste. 490 Sugar Land, TX 77479 713.772.1200 southwestsurgical.com

OB/GYN The Woman’s Place of Sugar Land Leslie Cohan, M.D. James R. Gullet, M.D. Catherine Holste, M.D. Tracey E. Samuels, M.D. 16552 Southwest Frwy.

Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.242.0767

OBESITY SURGERY T. Jayakumar, M.D., P.A. General & Bariatric Surgery 7737 SW Frwy., Ste. 830 Houston, TX 77074 713.995.1202

ONCOLOGY INFERTILITY/ REPRODUCTIVE ENDOCRINOLOGY C. James Chuong, M.D., M .P.H. Cooper Institute for Advanced Reproductive Medicine Houston: 7500 Beechnut #308 Houston, TX 77074 Sugar Land: 16651 Southwest Frwy. #200 Sugar Land, TX 77479 713.771.9771 cooperinstitutearm.com Fertility Specialists of Houston 4724 Sweetwater Blvd. Ste. 105 Sugar Land, Texas 77479 832.553.5483 After Hours: 713.512.7900

Texas Oncology Cancer Center 1350 First Colony Blvd.

Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.277.5200 texasoncologysugarland.com

OPTOMETRY/OPTICAL Robert Le, O.D. Sugar Land T.S.O. 13879 Southwest Frwy.

Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.277.3100

ORTHODONTICS Scott Huang, D.D.S., M.S. Jane Lu, D.M.D., M.S. Scott and Jane Orthodontics 5418 Hwy. 6, Suite 215 Missouri City, TX 77459 832.539.6388 scottandjane.com

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LIPOTUCK

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PEDIATRIC MedCare Pediatric Therapy MedCare Pediatric Rehab Center MedCare Pediatric Centers for Counseling and Play Therapy MedCare Pediatric Nursing 12371 S. Kirkwood Rd. Stafford, TX 77477 713.995.9292 medcarepediatrics.com

PODIATRY S. Nicholas Desai, D.P.M., P.A. Foot Centers of Texas 16605 Southwest Frwy. Ste. 350 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.240.3338 Y. Bryan Lee, D.P.M. F.A.C.F.A.S. Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists 56 Sugar Creek Center Blvd. #250 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.242.FEET (3338) AdvancedFootDocs.com

PRIMARY CARE – INTERNAL MEDICINE Parul R. Shah, D.O. Board Certified in Internal Medicine 5201 Hwy. 6 S., Ste. 575 Missouri City, TX 77459 281.499.5808

ST. LUKE’S MEDICAL GROUP SUGAR LAND 1327 Lake Pointe Parkway,Ste. 300 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-637-7695 stlukessugarlanddoctorgroup.com

PSYCHIATRY Bernadette U. Onuoha, M.D. Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry 12808 West Airport Blvd., Ste. 250 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.240.1035

going beyond tummy tuck and liposuction Ilene expresses that after having 3 children, and while still maintaining a healthy lifestyle, she just simply couldn’t get the complete results of what she was hoping to accomplish. After her procedure, she states, “My life has changed in a very AWESOME way! I feel sexy again! I am excited about trying on clothes that are form-fitting. I highly recommend Dr. Ahmadi.”

Iveth explains that she was unhappy with what she saw in the mirror after having 2 children. Since going through her surgery, she says, “Dr. Ahmadi did a great job at shaping my waist. I am getting wonderful compliments from friends and family members. I recommend Dr. Ahmadi to anyone looking into getting this surgery done!”

Dr. Ahmadi of Avante Plastic Surgery is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties to provide all aspects of cosmetic surgery.

His Lipotuck combines the benefits of a tummy tuck and liposuction for a result that is superior to either alone. This completely customized procedure removes excess fat and skin from the lower abdomen, smoothes bulges, and creates a naturally curvy figure.

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Peter Chang, M.D. , D.M.D. Ankur Mehta, M.D. Timeless Plastic Surgery Sugar Land Medical Plaza 1327 Lake Point Pkwy., Ste. 300 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.242.8463 timelessplasticsurgery.com

1112 Soldiers Field Dr. • Sugar Land, TX 77479

281.265.2639/BODY lipotuck.com Dr. Ahmadi Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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Azul Jaffer, M.D. 3531 Town Center Blvd. SouthSte. 102 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.980.1111 azulplasticsurgery.com Malik Kutty, M.D. Luxe Plastic Surgery 4660 Sweetwater Blvd., Ste. 150 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.313.0551 luxeplasticsurgery.com

Living With Low-Back Pain A conservative care approach may include chiropractic treatment and less reliance on prescription painkillers

SPEECH/VOICE/ OCCUPATIONAL/ PHYSICAL THERAPY Amy Ahrens, M.S., CCC-SLP Stacy Leyk, M.A., CCC-SLP The Speech and Learning Center 5819 Highway 6 Missouri City, TX 77459 281.403.2600 Stephanie J. White, MA, CCC/SLP Sheba A. Kirmani, MSLP, CCC/SLP Cher Riles, MA, CCC/SLP Sarah Lee, OTR The Speech Enrichment Center 3340 FM 1092 Road, Ste. 150 Missouri City, TX 77459 281.403.KIDS (5437) speechenrichment.com

SPINE ORTHOPEDIC Stanley C. Jones, M.D. Spine Care 7500 Beechnut, Ste. 150 Houston, TX 77074 713.773.2273

SPORTS MEDICINE/ ORTHOPEDICS Arthur F. Chau, M.D., F.A.A.O.S. Fondren Orthopedic Group, L.L.P. 14861 Southwest Frwy.#C-302 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.340.1234 Steven E. Nolan, M.D. Fondren Orthopedic Group, L.L.P. 14861 Southwest Frwy. #C-302 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.340.1234

MEDICAL CENTERS & CLINICS OakBend Medical Center 1705 Jackson Street Richmond, TX 77469 281.341.3000 Sugar Land Medical Center 15300 Southwest Frwy.

Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.274.6600

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| Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

T

he American Chiropractic Association (ACA), in response to recent research calling into question the efficacy of acetaminophen in the management of spinal pain, strongly encourages patients and healthcare providers to consider the benefits of a conservative approach to back pain. According to the British Medical Journal study, the widely used painkiller is ineffective against lowback pain and offers only “minimal shortterm benefit” for people with osteoarthritis of the hip or knee. Similar conclusions were reached in a study published in The Lancet in July 2014, that acetaminophen “does not ease low-back pain.”

“People need complete information about their treatment options,” said ACA President Anthony Hamm, DC.

“Research supports the use of more conservative treatments as a first-line defense against pain. This sensible approach not only reduces healthcare costs, but may also help some patients avoid riskier treatments altogether.”

A “conservative care first” approach to health care encourages emphasis on more cost-effective and safer approaches over potentially addictive medications for pain management and health enhancement.

Conservative management of painful conditions may include chiropractic manipulation combined with exercise and stretching prior to moving on to high-risk procedures. Chiropractic physicians are the highest-rated healthcare practitioners for low-back pain treatments due to their patient-centered, whole-person

Sig 7 100-115 FB Oct 15_Layout 1 9/10/15 5:04 PM Page 103

approach that provides greater interaction and communication for appropriate diagnosis and development of more cost-effective treatment plans.

“There are effective, more conservative treatments that help many patients lessen reliance on addictive painkillers and get back to their normal lives and activities,” Hamm said.

“The services provided by chiropractic physicians are not only clinically effective but also cost-effective, so taking a more conservative approach at the onset of low-back pain can also potentially save both patients and the healthcare system money down the line.”

Numerous recent studies have clearly shown the dangerous overreliance in the U.S. on prescription painkillers. This has tremendously increased Americans’ risk for overuse and abuse of these drugs if taken for long periods, leading to more than 17,000 related deaths in 2010 — more than heroin and cocaine combined.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention calls the abuse of prescription pain medications an “epidemic.”

For those who are currently pain-free, exercise tips, posture recommendations and guidance on injury prevention routinely provided by chiropractic physicians can help people maintain a healthy back throughout their lives. To learn more, visit acatoday.org/backpain.

Back Pain Facts & Statistics Although chiropractors care for more than just back pain, many patients visit them looking for relief from this pervasive condition. In fact, 31 million Americans experience low-back pain at any given time. A few interesting facts about back pain: • Low-back pain is the single leading cause of disability worldwide, according to the Global Burden of Disease study from 2010.

• One-half of all working Americans admit to having back pain symptoms each year.

• Back pain is the second most

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281-495-2230 • www.mycompoundingshop.com Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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Family

Health

A D V E R T I S I N G

TEXAS CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL WEST CAMPUS Offering expanded access to unsurpassed pediatric care, Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus is Houston’s first community hospital designed, built and equipped exclusively for children. Conveniently located

ultrasound biopsy and stereotactic biopsy. Schedule

activity and it becomes as natural as taking your shoes

your appointment online. 281-242-PINK (7465)

off when you get home. Dr. Howard’s family practices

houstonmethodist.org/online-scheduling

CHI ST. LUKE’S HEALTH‒SUGAR LAND HOSPITAL

at I-10 and Barker Cypress, Texas Children’s Hospital

Catch it early! Breast cancer is the second most

West Campus offers inpatient and outpatient services

common cancer in women. Here’s the good news ―

and houses the only dedicated 24/7 pediatric emer-

the earlier the disease is detected, the greater chance of

gency room in Greater West Houston.

survival. CHI St. Luke’s Health-Sugar Land Hospital

For more than 50 years, Texas Children’s Heart Center, ranked #2 by U.S. News & World Report, has

using hand sanitizer when they leave public places, and the first thing they do when they get home is wash their

provides comprehensive women’s services in the fight against breast cancer.

hands. Consider making this your family’s routine.

281-637-7695 stlukessugarlanddoctorgroup.com 1327 Lake Pointe Parkway, Suite 500

DR. ANKUR MEHTA TIMELESS PLASTIC SURGERY Dr. Ankur Mehta has accompanied breast cancer

been a pioneering leader in cardiac care, treating more

The Women’s Center offers compassionate, high-

patients on their journey from diagnosis, to treat-

than 17,000 children with congenital heart defects and

quality comprehensive care for women at every stage of

ment, reconstruction, and to becoming a breast can-

performing more than 800 surgeries annually.

life. The Center’s special breast cancer services include:

cer survivor. Even though he deals with breast cancer

Cardiologists and surgeons are world-renowned lead-

3-D tomosynthesis; screening mammograms; diagnos-

patients on a daily basis, he was not prepared for the

ers in pediatric cardiology, congenital heart surgery and

tic mammograms and breast ultrasounds.

news he received one day: the breast cancer diagno-

cardiovascular anesthesiology, and offer every proce-

St. Luke’s Medical Group Caritas Women’s Care in

dure available for the treatment of pediatric heart dis-

Sugar Land specializes in comprehensive obstetrical

underwent a nipple-sparing mastectomy with implant

eases and defects for children of all ages, including

and gynecological care including education and aware-

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preterm and low-birth-weight newborns. Some of the

ness of the unique functions of a woman’s body. Caritas

services offered include cardiac catheterization, electro-

treats a full spectrum of healthcare services for women:

the true fears, thought processes and concerns of

physiology, diagnostic and cardiac imaging, adult con-

Well-woman exams; routine gynecological care;

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genital heart disease treatment, congenital heart

menopause and gynecological disorders (irregular

speaking to female plastic surgeons, breast cancer

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smears; da Vinci® Robotic-Assisted Surgery; micro-

to different options for treatment.

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surgery for repair of damaged fallopian tubes; precon-

HOUSTON METHODIST BREAST CARE CENTER - SUGAR LAND Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land offers women a life-saving difference. With renowned breast radiologists, the latest in technology and patient-centric focus on personal care and communication, the Breast Care Center is a valuable

sis of his own 28-year-old “little” sister. His sister

After this experience, Dr. Mehta better understood

Today, as a plastic surgeon at Timeless Plastic

ception care; and routine high-risk prenatal care

Surgery, Dr. Mehta has the honor of providing

throughout pregnancy.

“concierge care” to all patients including, but not limited

Schedule a mammogram: ApptASAP.org

to, breast cancer survivors. Dr. Mehta takes his and his

CHIStLukesSugarland.org

sister’s personal experiences and applies it to his patients by trying to understand what they desire

ST. LUKE’S MEDICAL GROUP PERCY HOWARD III, MD Family Health is what Family Medicine and Primary

whether related to the face, body or breasts. “Going through this very personal journey with my sister has definitely made me a better physician,” shared Dr.

community resource that is unmatched in Fort Bend

Care is all about. For the purpose of this article, Dr.

Mehta. 281-242-TIME (8463)

County. At the Breast Care Center, a multi-discipli-

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provides the most comprehensive and compassion-

and quote his mother. “Wash your hands” when given

ate diagnostic and therapeutic services possible, all

as a command or “Did you wash your hands?” when

in one comfortable setting. This means that women

posed as a question. As in medicine, the importance of

SOLIS MAMMOGRAPHY At Solis Mammography, giving women exceptional care means providing a warm, peaceful experience.

undergoing an annual screening can have confidence

washing your hands during your daily lives can’t be

that Houston Methodist breast radiologists have the

overstated. An argument could be made that this simple

With over 20 centers in Texas, Solis is now

expertise to properly evaluate results.

thing might determine whether there is a cold, a sore

open in Katy and Sugar Land. Solis’ staff members are

throat, the flu, a stomach bug or even a skin infection

trained to be gentle, and their specialized breast radiolo-

circulating around family members.

gists are there to give women peace of mind about

The Breast Care Center also employs the most sophisticated technology including 3D mammography, digital mammography, diagnostic ultrasound, breast MRI, molecular breast imaging, MRI guided biopsy,

104

| Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

Hand washing should be taught and practiced by parents so that children learn the importance of this

breast health. 866-686-8117 solismammo.com

Sig 7 100-115 FB Oct 15_Layout 1 9/10/15 5:04 PM Page 105

HILLARY PATUWO, M.D., M.B.A. SUGAR LAND WOMEN’S CARE Breast cancer screening is one of the important parts of an annual physical examination or well-woman examination as a woman’s lifetime risk of developing breast cancer in the United States is 1 in 8. Fortunately, we have seen a reduction in death from breast cancer over the last 20 years due to improved treatment options and earlier detection.

your fertility journey.

many other medications and products. The

713-CallDrK (225-5375) CallDrK.com

Compounding Shop is a member of the Professional

2205 Williams Trace Blvd, Suite 106, Sugar Land

Compounding Centers of America and the

9055 Katy Freeway, Suite 450, Houston

International Academy of Compounding Pharmacists.

The Shop is open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 6

ADVANCED FOOT AND ANKLE SPECIALISTS, DR. Y. BRYAN LEE A fungus infection of the toenail, also known as onychomycosis, is one of the most common dermatologic

p.m. and closed Saturday and Sunday. Come by and see what they can do for you! They now accept all Major Medical and Prescription Insurances, including Medicare Part D, for both compound and legend

disorders affecting the foot. The disease is character-

drugs. Note: Medicare Part D may not cover com-

1) breast imaging, 2) clinical breast examination, and

ized by a thickening of the toenail plate, debris under

pounds. Please call for more info.

3) patient self-screening. The American College of

the toenail, a lifting of the leading edge of the nail, a

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Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends yearly

change in nail color and occasionally an odor.

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screening mammograms starting at age 40. Breast

Historically, treatments for fungal nails included topical

imaging also includes ultrasound, digital mammo-

medications, pills, or surgical removal of the nail plate.

grams, and MRI as deemed necessary by your physi-

Topical medications were largely ineffective. Oral

cian. The college also recommends clinical breast

agents have been known to affect the liver, and blood

“bulking up” like a bodybuilder if they were to start

examination by a qualified physician every year starting

tests need to be monitored to prevent damage.

strength training. In reality, if you’re older than 25, it’s

at age 40 and every 1-3 years between the ages of 20

Removal of the nail plate was painful and debilitating.

much more likely that too little muscle is the problem

There are 3 components to breast cancer screening:

THE PERFECT WORKOUT Many people – especially women – have a fear of

and 39. Breast self-awareness is encouraged for

Dr. Lee is a board certified Podiatrist in the Sugar

rather than too much muscle. The research studies

patients aged 20 years and older and may include

Land area who is offering a new patented laser specially

indicate that adults who don’t strength train lose an

breast self-examination.

designed to shine through your toenail and destroy the

average of a half pound of lean muscle tissue each year

specific pathogens embedded in and under your nail

starting at age 25. Over time, this results in arms and

cers of other types, you should ask your doctor about

causing the infection. The laser does not harm healthy

thighs that are softer and less firm, a slower metabo-

genetic testing for hereditary cancer syndromes, which

tissue or affect your activity in any way. A clinical study

lism, and buying larger clothing sizes. Effective

includes BRCA 1 and 2.

demonstrated that 88 percent of treated patients grew

strength training changes all of this. It increases your

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out a normal looking nail after just ONE treatment. If

metabolism, as well as sculpts your legs and arms. And

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you have a fungal or ugly toenail please call to schedule

since muscle is denser than fat, strength training helps

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a free evaluation for possible laser treatment.

make your body smaller, firmer, and more shapely.

If you have a family history of breast cancer or can-

HOUSTON FERTILITY CENTER The Houston Fertility Center, office of Sonja Kristiansen, M.D., is pleased to announce the opening of their new Sugar Land location at 2205

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specialize in one-on-one personal training with the

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the heart of Sugar Land and servicing all of Fort Bend

pharmacists, the Compounding Shop offers bio-identi-

River Oaks 713-999-5182

and surrounding counties, the Houston Fertility

cal hormone therapy and other customized prescrip-

The Woodlands 281-245-0478

Center offers comprehensive and affordable fertility

tions. Locally owned and operated since 1982, they are

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services by a double Board Certified Fertility

one of the first and most experienced compounding

Clear Lake 281-456-3380

Specialist. Their new Sugar Land location allows you

pharmacies in the Houston metropolitan area. The

Kingwood 281-241-1628

private, modernized care in a tranquil setting with

friendly, multi-lingual staff is certified and licensed, and

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contemporary sophistication.

they specialize in compounding. Providing exceptional

At the Houston Fertility Center, they offer state-ofthe-art services including in-vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), laser blasto-

customer service is their main goal, and they proudly stand by their products.

In addition to bio-identical hormone replacement,

cyst biopsy, preimplantation genetic diagnosis, gender

the pharmacy offers pain management; veterinarian

selection and fertility preservation. Their compassion-

medicine; dental preparation; saliva hormone testing;

ate physician and staff are here to guide you through

nutritional and dietary support; consultation; and

Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

105

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Living With Lower-Back Pain

FORMERLY BIKRAM HOT YOGA MISSOURI CITY

Ex Pro Athlete/Model "CH" Christian Hall tried Afterglow Hot Yoga upon the recommendation from a couple of exteammates. After the first class he was very wiped out and pretty sure he was never coming back, but decided to do as the instructor encouraged, to come back as soon as possible to truly experience the benefits, so he came back the next day and began to experience more than he could have imagined. CH says "I have less joint and back pain, my skin feels and looks better, I find that I have more clarity in my thoughts, my focus and concentration levels have risen. I absolutely love the calm feeling of euphoria and peaceful relaxation that I have after class. Yoga really and truly makes you a better person: Mind, Body and Soul.

I recommend this yoga to everyone to recharge -- everyone should do a 30-day challenge once a quarter to simply 'tune up' your mind, strengthen your body, and calm your soul. I will be doing yoga for the rest of my life after the mental and physical changes that I have experienced...I feel like it has saved my life, my relationship, and my career."

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281.778.1242 facebook.com/texasfreshjuice 106

| Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

common reason for visits to the doctor’s office, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections.

• Most cases of back pain are mechanical or non-organic — meaning they are not caused by serious conditions, such as inflammatory arthritis, infection, fracture or cancer.

• Americans spend a least $50 billion each year on back pain — and that’s just for the more easily identified costs.

• Experts estimate that as many as 80 percent of the population will experience a back problem at some time in their lives.

Tips to Prevent Back Pain • Maintain a healthy diet and weight.

• Remain active under the supervision of your doctor of chiropractic.

• Avoid prolonged inactivity or bed rest.

• Warm up or stretch before exercising or other physical activities.

• Maintain proper posture.

• Wear comfortable, low-heeled shoes.

• Sleep on a medium firm mattress to minimize any curve in your spine.

• Lift an object with your knees, keep the object close to your body and do not twist when lifting.

• Quit smoking. Smoking impairs blood flow, resulting in oxygen and nutrient deprivation to spinal tissues.

• Work with your doctor of chiropractic to ensure that your computer workstation is ergonomically correct. l

Sig 7 100-115 FB Oct 15_Layout 1 9/11/15 11:13 AM Page 107

Happy ThanksGolfing Classic Nov. 23 event aids homeless families in Fort Bend

Send Us Your Nominees!

Here are some ideas to get you started. When submitting your selections be sure to EXPLAIN WHY you chose them.

EMAIL: editor@lifestyles-magazines.com or go to (fortbendlifestylesandhomes.com) and click on “Best Of Fort Bend” and submit your choices online.

Tournament planners (l-r): Robbin Mallett, Beth Butler, Steve Fuqua, Constable Trever Nehls and Mandi Bronsell.

F

ort Bend Family Promise invites area businesses and golfers and to be part of its 11th annual charity golf tournament and help homeless Fort Bend families get back into homes during the upcoming holiday season. The Happy ThanksGolfing Classic will be held at Sweetwater Country Club on Nov. 23.

“We love our tradition of hosting this tournament the Monday before Thanksgiving,” said Tournament Coordinator Robbin Mallett. “It’s usually nice weather and a great chance to get in a last game of golf before the holiday season. But more importantly, it’s a time when we stop to count our blessings and remember those who are not as fortunate. Fort Bend Family Promise serves children every day whose families have literally been sleeping in their cars and have no place to else to turn.

“Fort Bend is an affluent community, so it’s easy to forget that we do have low income families who are struggling and living paycheck to paycheck,” added Mallett. “A crisis, such as a car accident, medical issue or job loss, can cause these families to lose their housing, but with a little help, they can return to indepen-

dence. More than 80 percent of the families in our program get back into permanent housing, typically within 40 days.”

Golf registration is $150 per person. The practice range and lunch are available at 11:15 a.m. The scramble format-shotgun start for the four-player teams begins at 12:15 p.m. with a delicious dinner and awards following the conclusion of play.

Contests, prizes and a great course make this a popular tournament with golfers and those who just want to come out and help homeless families. Register online at fortbendfamilypromise.org/events.

Local businesses are also invited to become tournament sponsors or contribute in-kind services or auction items.

For details, call 832-314-5112.

Fort Bend Family Promise is the County’s only nonprofit agency committed to helping homeless families with children get back to self-sufficiency. The organization pursues this mission by uniting faith communities in a cooperative effort to provide shelter, meals and comprehensive support. Fort Bend Family Promise is supported by 16 area churches. l

“More than 80 percent of the families in our program get back into permanent housing, typically within 40 days.”

Food & Drink BEST Hamburger BEST Craft Beer BEST Enchiladas BEST Margaritas BEST Martini BEST Tacos BEST Steak under $20 BEST Steak over $15 BEST Italian Food BEST Sandwiches BEST Dessert BEST ___________ Community BEST Volunteer BEST Police Officer BEST Fireman BEST Place to Work BEST School Club BEST Bird Watching BEST Golfer (local) BEST Golf shot BEST Hole-in-One BEST Touchdown BEST Veterinarian BEST Homerun BEST Golf Hole BEST Place to walk your dog BEST Teacher/Coach BEST Sales Clerk BEST Clothes Boutique BEST Place to buy a gift BEST ___________

– Robbin Mallett Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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Hill Country Getaway Lakeway Resort and Spa provides relaxation, rejuvenation and recreation

Pool

By Elizabeth Anthony akeway Resort and Spa is nestled in the Texas Hill Country just 30 minutes west of downtown Austin and along the shoreline of beautiful Lake Travis. The award-winning, AAA Four Diamond venue is the perfect location for a successful and invigorating meeting or family time to relax and rejuvenate.

With commanding views of the Texas Hill Country from the shores of Lake Travis, Lakeway Resort and Spa is an elegant destination with contemporary resort amenities. The resort features 175 guest rooms, including spacious 2- and 3-bedroom condominiums. Most rooms feature private balconies allowing guests to enjoy the gorgeous views of Lake Travis and the surrounding Texas Hill Country.

Lakeway Resort and Spa’s featured amenity is the beautiful San Saba Spa with a 24-hour fitness center. The Spa is the ideal retreat for re-energizing while on vacation, enjoying a romantic getaway or unwinding from daily stress. The spacious spa includes nine indoor treatment areas, separate men’s and women’s locker rooms each with a dry sauna, separate elegant men’s and women’s lounges with a private outdoor spa terrace, a couple’s massage room with shower and a spa boutique.

The 24-hour fitness center features strength training, cardiovascular stations and free weights. San Saba Spa offers a complimentary 8 a.m. yoga class every Saturday for hotel guests.

L

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| Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

Lakeway Resort and Spa guests love its swimming complex featuring a pool and slide area especially for kids, heated whirlpool overlooking Lake Travis and the swim-up bar. All pools are located outdoors; select pools are heated during the fall and winter months.

THREE POOL COMPLEX (Heated) The Sunset Pool is the resort’s three-tiered infinity edge pool that cascades toward and overlooks Lake Travis. One of the tiers has a swim-up bar. Five U-shaped areas along one side of the pool let guests sit in the water with friends and enjoy a drink, the cool water and the view. The large kid-friendly pool features wading area, water features and a looping water slide.

The whirlpool with its constant 103-degree temperature is the place to soak a tired body, enjoy a refreshing drink, socialize with friends or meet new ones, and enjoy the view of Lake Travis.

Plenty of comfortable lounge chairs and umbrellas surround the pool. For more privacy or shade, consider renting a cabana by the pool that includes cushioned lounges, ceiling fan, TV, fruit plate, chilled bottled water and WiFi access.

KID ZONE The Kid Zone is one reason why Lakeway Resort and Spa is unlike any other Texas Hill Country resort. It provides a variety of

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Masterson’s Bar

fun kids’ activities, including movies, games, toys, books and arts and crafts. The large inflatable bounce houses with an obstacle course and dual slide are a big hit.

A ping pong and pool table, air hockey and pinball machine and a basketball arcade round out the fun options.

GOLF Four championship Golf Courses offer the golfer a variety of challenges.

Yaupon Rolling fairways take the game past limestone outcroppings, serene water features and picturesque vistas. The front nine is characterized by elevated tee boxes that seem to carry the shot on forever. The back nine is slightly lower in elevation and more secluded with strategically placed water features.

Live Oak The Live Oak Course derives its name from the trees that frame its meandering fairways and shade its tees and ample greens. But no sand here; this course is void of sand traps and bunkers.

Sunset

Condo

Flintrock Falls This gem is the area’s first collaborative design by Jack Nicklaus and Jack “Jackie” Nicklaus II. Opened in 2002, Flintrock Falls is recognized as one of their classic efforts.

The signature Waterfall hole #11 is already giving The Hills hole #7 a run for its money as most beautiful hole in the state.

Falconhead Designed to fit carefully into the gently rolling terrain of the Texas Hill Country, Falconhead can be enjoyed by golfers of all skill levels and features four to six sets of tees per hole so the player can select the appropriate challenge that fits their game.

MARINA A full-service marina is adjacent to Lakeway Resort and Spa. It features a wide range of facilities and water recreation activities, including private charter yachts for groups, seasonal public sunset cruises, ski boats with or without drivers, pontoon and deck boats, wave runners and bass boats with or without fishing guides, and the Texas Sailing Academy.

THE RESTAURANT Lakeway Resort and Spa’s restaurant boasts a sophisticated yet rustic atmosphere with pristine views of Lake Travis. Guests enjoy the impressive marble-topped bar with abundant seating and high-definition televisions. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, the restaurant features the finest ingredients that guarantee delicious food for everyone. Restaurant hours are SundayThursday 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m. and FridaySaturday 6:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Reservations 901-609-3017 lakewayresortandspa.com

Repeat customers and guests visiting for the first time find that the friendly staff and customized programs are what makes Lakeway Resort and Spa the best place to relax, rejuvenate and recreate. The venue is also the ultimate choice for a Destination Wedding with the Vistas Glass Ballroom overlooking the lake.

Visit lakewayresortandspa.com or call 512-261-6600 to learn more. l

Women’s Spa Lounge Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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ç By Denman Moody

author, The Advanced Oenophile

Winning Wines All varieties and a great range of prices

SPARKLING:

WHITE:

Bisol “Crede” Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore Spumante Brut — Made from Pinot Bianco and two relatively unknown grapes, Glera and Verdiso, this is one of my favorite Proseccos. Brilliant light straw color with a bouquet of wild flowers. Fresh and elegant, and simply transcends most of the Proseccos on the market. I know the name is a mouthful, but it’s worth it, as the wine is a mouthful of pleasure! $25 Kim Crawford Fizz Small Parcels Sparkling Wine 2009 — A relatively new wine from this winery known for its excellent Sauvignon Blancs. Crisp and toasty with apple and peach aromas from a blend of 60 percent Pinot Noir and 40 percent Chardonnay. Aged 42 months prior to disgorgement. $27 Gloria Ferrer Royal Cuvee Brut Carneros Late Disgorged 2006 — The Royal Cuvee was first served to King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia of Spain during their first visit to California in 1987. Made in the Champagne method and only in noble vintages. A noticeable step up from the delightful Sonoma County Brut — which is always a good value — and competitive with the big boys. $35

Les Dauphins Cotes du Rhone Reserve White Wine 2013 — “Clean, crisp and fresh” nails this wine. For sipping, with hors d’oeuvres or light appetizers. Pretty label and surprisingly refreshing. $12 Schreckbichl Colterenzio Pinot Grigio Suditol Alto Adige 2014 — From the highest, coolest wine-growing area in Italy, this wine sings, “The hills are alive…”

Attractive peach and honeydew, with rich texture and balancing acidity all the way through the finish. Try with grilled sea bass or chicken pasta. $14 Sequoia Grove Chardonnay Napa Valley 2013 — Eureka! An almost perfect Napa Chardonnay. No malolactic fermentation since the natural acidity is stunning. Citrus and guava with a creamy middle taste and luscious finish. A gem and a bargain. $26 MacRostie Chardonnay Sonoma Coast 2013 — A perennial best value, this wine came from numerous cool-climate vineyards offering distinct complex characteristics. Mostly barrel fermented and aged on the lees for 6 months. To emphasize the gorgeous 2013 fruit, select lots were fermented in stainless steel. For a 32,000case production, this seems like something from a boutique! This winery just gets better and better. $26

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Capensis Chardonnay Stellenbosch Fijnbosch Vineyard 2013 — Certainly the best wine I’ve tasted from South Africa. This seems to be similar to what Jess Jackson and French winemaker Pierre Seilan put together at Verite — producer of some of the best red wines in the world — in Sonoma County. Here, however, it is Jackson’s widow Barbara Banke and South African icon Antony Beck with Chardonnay.

Winemaker Graham Weerts worked at Verite and Stonestreet in California and Mulderbosch in South Africa. The aromatics include peach, apple and pear, and the middle taste exhibits beautiful fruit, luscious complexity and subtle minerality.

Competitive with the best Chardonnays the world has to offer. Only 1,000 cases produced. capensiswines.com $80

RED: Besieged Sonoma County 2012 — A blend of 35 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 20 percent Petite Sirah, 18 percent Zinfandel, 12 percent Merlot, 9 percent Alicante and 5 percent Barbera. Joel Peterson of Ravenswood has produced a winner here. Bold plum and blackberry fruit. Rich and extremely happy with a cheeseburger! $12

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ç By Denman Moody

author, The Advanced Oenophile

Francis Coppola Diamond Collection Claret Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 — Perhaps it’s the vintage, and perhaps it’s that this is the flagship of the Coppola Diamond Collection, but whatever the reason, this is the best offering from the Diamond Collection I have experienced.

Tasted at a “Diamonds on the Diamond” outing with winemakers from Coppola at a recent Astros/Dodgers game, all of the wines were good, but this was the best. And to top it off, the Astros won in a no hitter!!!

Beautiful purple color with aromas of chocolate-covered black cherries, this is a greatly underpriced claret (the early British name for imported wines from Bordeaux).

Could be twice the price and still be a good value! $13.99 Educated Guess Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2013 — Isn’t everyone looking for a good, affordable Napa Valley Cab?

Well, you don’t need to guess on this one!

Aged 12 months in French oak, this wine has ripe black currant and chocolate flavors. “Fun, approachable and foodfriendly.” $20 Kunde Zinfandel Sonoma Valley 2013 — From one of the best wineries still slightly under the radar, this super-sustainable family winery, established in 1904, has produced the best Zin I’ve tasted this year! “A broad tapestry of blackberry and raspberry are seamlessly woven with spicy notes of black pepper.” The winery recommends barbequed ribs or a fancy risotto; for me, burgers and pizzas. 6,000 cases produced. $22 Head High Red Wine 2013 — A very successful blend of 36 percent Malbec, 20 percent Merlot, 20 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 13 percent Zinfandel and 11 percent Grenache from carefully selected

sites in Sonoma county (74 percent), Lake County (14 percent) and the rest Napa County. No thoughts of a specific terroir here, but no matter. This nice, rich, medium- to full-bodied red is a winner.

Grilled flank steak sounds just about right! $30

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DINING GUIDE AMERICAN

The Burning Pear 16090 City Walk Sugar Land • 281/275-5925

Fuddruckers Inc. 11445 Fountain Lake Drive Stafford • 281/240-9414

Café Express 15930 City Walk Blvd.

Sugar Land • 281/980-9222

Guru Burgers & Crepes 2268 Texas Drive Sugar Land • 281/313-0026

Another Time Soda Fountain & Cafe 800 Third Street Rosenberg • 281/232-2999

Cheesecake Factory 16535 Southwest Frwy.

Sugar Land • 281/313-9500

Live Oak Grill 12935 Dairy Ashford Sugar Land • 281/491-5253

Beck’s Prime Sugar Land Ltd. 1822 Highway 6 Sugar Land • 281/242-6300

Chili’s Grill & Bar 15355 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/242-5444

Ray’s Grill 8502 FM 359 Fulshear • 281/533-0099 www.raysgrill.com

BJ’s Restaurant • Brewery 2231 Highway 6 Sugar Land • 281/242-0400

Five Guys 15810 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/277-7755

Black Walnut Cafe 16535 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/565-7800

Flying Saucer Draught Emporium 15929 City Walk Sugar Land • 281/242-7468

Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar 12740 Southwest Freeway Stafford • 281/265-1415

Ruggles Green 15903 City Walk Sugar Land • 281/565-1175 T.G.I. Fridays 2515 Town Center Blvd. N. Sugar Land • 281/494-8400

The Grille at Quail Valley Golf Course 2880 La Quinta Dr. Missouri City • 281/403-5920 Hoggs N Chicks 8817 Highway 6, Ste. 900 Missouri City • 281/778-4644 Willie’s Grill & Icehouse 945 Highway 6 Sugar Land • 281/242-2252 Wings N Things 3375 Highway 6 Sugar Land • 281/242-2999

ASIAN/SUSHI AZUMA on The Lake 15830 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/313-0518

Benihana Grill 2579 Town Center Blvd.

Sugar Land • 281/565-8888 BLU Restaurant I Lounge 2248 Texas Drive Sugar Land • 281/903-7324 Cafe East Chinese Buffet 4645 Highway 6 Sugar Land• 281/491-8181 Cafe Goo Goo Yen 1730 Williams Trace Blvd.

Sugar Land • 281/277-8383 Japaneiro’s Sushi Bistro & Latin Grill 2168 Texas Drive Sugar Land • 281/242-1121 Keeper’s Japanese Restaurant 4654 Highway 6 Sugar Land • 281/242-0389 King Bo II Chinese Restaurant 4707 Hwy. 6 South Missouri City • 281/403-2222 Kublai Khan Mongolian Stir Fry 15830 SW Freeway Sugar Land • 281/565-7277 Orient Cafe 1852 FM 359 Richmond • 281/239-7900

16100 Kensington Dr. #500 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.491.0275

Panda Garden 3563 Highway 6 Sugar Land• 281/265-0303 Pearl Dynasty 19828 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/238-5800 Pei Wei 16101 Kensington Drive Sugar Land • 281/240-1931 P.F. Chang’s China Bistro 2120 Lone Star Drive Sugar Land • 281/313-8650 Pho Mai 16200 Kensington Dr. Sugar Land • 281/491-1528

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Sabai Thai Cafe 2705 Town Center Blvd.

Sugar Land • 281/325-1007 Songkran Thai Kitchen 1101-08 Uptown Park Blvd.

Houston • 713/993-9096 2258 Texas Drive Sugar Land • 281/670-8525 Thai Cottage 4723 Sweetwater Blvd.

Sugar Land • 281/313-0707

BARBECUE Brookstreet Bar-B-Q 1418 Highway 6 Sugar Land • 281/313-4000 7232 Highway 6 Missouri City 281/403-3050 Old Hickory Inn 3334 FM 1092 Missouri City • 281/499-8904 Otto’s Barbecue 11222 Fountain Lake Dr. Stafford • 281/313-6886 Spring Creek Barbeque 4895 Highway 6 Missouri City • 281/499-8222 The Swinging Door 3818 FM 359 Richmond • 281/342-4758 Vasos Bar-B-Q 9920 Highway 90A Sugar Land • 281/242-8585

CAJUN Pappadeaux’s 12711 Southwest Freeway Stafford• 281/240-5533 Ragin Cajun Seafood & Oyster Bar 16100 Kensington Drive Sugar Land • 281/277-0704 Razoo’s Cajun Cafe 12770 Southwest Freeway Stafford • 281/340-1200 The Rouxpour Restaurant & Bar 2298 Texas Drive Sugar Land • 281/240-7689

DESSERT Nothing Bundt Cakes 1531 Texas 6, Suite 125 Sugar Land• 281/491-2253 Inside Scoop 15810 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land• 281/277-0415

FRENCH/ MEDITERRANEAN/ CONTINENTAL/ LATIN AMERICAN Aura Brasserie 15977 City Walk Sugar Land • 281/403-2872 Baker St. Pub & Grill 15970 City Walk Street Sugar Land • 281/494-0774 Churrascos 1520 Lake Pointe Parkway Sugar Land • 832/532-5300 Dumar’s Mediterranean Grill 4518 Highway 6 Sugar Land • 281/313-1893 Fernando’s Latin Cuisine 14135 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/494-9087 Karl’s Restaurant & Bar 503 FM 359 Richmond • 281/238-9300 La Madeleine 2675 Town Center Blvd.

Sugar Land • 281/494-4400 Turquoise Grill 16019 City Walk Sugar Land • 281/937-7447 Zoe’s Kitchen 2260 Lone Star Dr. Sugar Land • 281/277-6215

INDIAN Cafe India 2319 Williams Trace Blvd.

Sugar Land • 281/565-5881 Madras Pavillion 16260 Kensington Drive Sugar Land • 281/491-3672 Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 | 113

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DINING GUIDE The Bombay Palace 15295 Southwest Frwy.

Sugar Land • 281/325-0071

Smashburger 2623 Town Center Blvd.

Sugar Land • 281/491-0380

Shiva Indian Restaurant 2130 Lone Star Dr. Sugar Land • 281/494-2981

Subway Sandwiches & Salads 6260 Highway 6 Missouri City • 281/208-3360 609 Dulles Ave. Stafford • 281/499-5353 16318 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/240-5353 3557 Highway 6 Missouri City • 281/980-5353

ITALIAN/PIZZA Antonia’s Cucina Italiana 4849 Sweetwater Blvd.

Sugar Land • 281/265-4000 Carrabba’s Italian Grill 2335 Highway 6 S. Sugar Land • 281/980-4433 Coal Vines 1550 Lake Pointe Parkway #100 Sugar Land • 281/491-0464 Corelli’s Italian Cafe 3229 Highway 6 S. @ Williams Trace Sugar Land• 281/491-8900 Grimaldi’s 16535 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/265-2280 Jupiter Pizza & Waffle Co. 16135 City Walk Sugar Land • 281/313-1008 Lasagna House 16089 City Walk Sugar Land • 281/277-3400 Mia Bella Trattoria 16535 Southwest Frwy Sugar Land • 281/240-5000 Pepperoni’s PIzza 9 convenient locations www.pepperonis.net Russo’s NY Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen 10350 Highway 6, Ste. G Missouri City • 281/431-6637

MEDITERRANEAN Red Oak Grill 203 Century Square Blvd.

Sugar Land • 281/491-2890 5011 Highway 6, Ste. 100 Missouri City • 281/969-5074

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STEAKHOUSES

MEXICAN Berryhill 13703 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/313-8226 Chipotle’s Mexican Grill 2280 Lone Star Drive Town Square Sugar Land • 281/980-6622 6245 Highway 6 Missouri City • 281/261-6305 Escalantes 15933 City Walk Sugar Land •281/242-1100 Fuzzy’s Taco Shop 4875 Highway 6 Missouri City • 281/261-8226 La Cocina Mexican Restaurant 515 FM 359 Richmond • 281/238-0872 La Escondida Mexican Grill 7270 Highway 6 Missouri City • 281/403-3306 Las Haciendas 12821 Southwest Freeway Stafford • 281/240-3060 Lopez Mexican Restaurant 11606 Wilcrest Drive Houston • 281/495-2436 Lupé Tortilla 15801 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/265-7500

| Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015

Lupita’s 3121 Highway 6 Sugar Land • 281/265-6556

Earl of Sandwich 1930 Highway 6 Sugar Land • 281/240-2408

Pappasito’s Cantina 13750 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/565-9797

Jason’s Deli 15275 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/565-3737

Soto’s Kitchen 2899 Dulles Ave Missouri City • 832/539-1757

Jimmy Johns Gourmet Sandwich 2276 Lone Star Dr. Sugar Land • 281/265-0808

SEAFOOD Fish City Grill 15980 City Walk Sugar Land• 281/494-3474 Catering 281-818-8937 Joe’s Crab Shack 19740 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/344-2100 Pappadeaux’s 12711 Highway 59 S Stafford • 281/240-5533 Pier 61 Seafood, Oyster Bar & Grill 12106 Murphy Rd. Stafford • 281/988-4688

SPECIALTY/ SANDWICHES/ CATERING Buffalo Wild Wings 1401 Highway 6 S. Sugar Land • 281/313-9464

Salata 2170 Town Square Place Sugar Land • 832/886-4582 Schlotzsky’s 15287 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/-565-2867 Murphy’s Deli 13645 Murphy Rd. Stafford • 281/261-8069 13134 Dairy Ashford Sugar Land • 281/494-1960 Panera Bread 1928 Highway 6 Sugar Land • 281/242-7323 Potbelly Sandwich Works 1815 Highway 6 S. Sugar Land • 281/277-2515 Quiznos 11339 Fountain Lake Dr. Stafford• 281/277-2444

Longhorn Steakhouse 16746 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/240-1018 Outback Steakhouse 15253 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/980-4329 Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille 2115 Town Square Place Sugar Land • 281/565-2727 Saltgrass Steak House 19720 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/232-3502 Texas Land & Cattle Steak House 12710 Southwest Freeway Stafford • 281/494-8844 Tradicao Brazilian Steakhouse 12000 Southwest Freeway Stafford • 281/277-9292 Veritas Steak and Seafood 1550 Lake Pointe Parkway Sugar Land • 281/491-2901

TEA ROOM Serenitea Tea Room & Gift Shop 13889 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/491-4588 Teahouse & Coffee Tapioca Bar 4727 Sweetwater Blvd.

Sugar Land • 281/565-5856

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PL AN NOW FOR

Holiday Dining & Decorating A D V E R T I S I N G

THE RED OAK GRILL Welcome to Red Oak Grill, home of the most deli-

BLAZE PIZZA Blaze Fast Fire’d Pizza, the fast-casual artisanal

cious, freshest American Mediterranean food in

pizza concept known for its chef-driven menu and

town. They are a family owned restaurant with loca-

casually hip restaurants opened their first Houston

tions in Missouri City and Sugar Land. They take

area location, in Sugar Land, on Thursday, July 30.

pride in the quality of their food and service. Their

The new Sugar Land restaurant features a thought-

menu consists of a variety of mouthwatering

fully designed 2,300 square foot interior with seating

delights, including roasted shawermas, burgers,

for 60 inside and an outdoor patio. In August, a sec-

hummus, gyros, salads, baked potatoes, and much

ond area location opened in Houston’s Woodlake

more. Beer and wine are also on the menu, and they

Square (9650 Westheimer Rd., near Randalls). Blaze

graciously host daily happy hours, as well as compli-

Pizza is serving up artisanal pizzas that are both fast

mentary wine tasting events. They are incredibly

and affordable. Each restaurant features an open-

excited to introduce weekend brunches beginning in

kitchen format that allows guests to customize sig-

October. What better way to welcome fall and football

nature pizzas or create their own– all for about $8.

than with mimosas and an American Mediterranean

The generously sized personal pizzas ready to eat in

brunch? Also, with the holidays soon approaching,

just 180 seconds. For those with specific dietary

you can count on their catering kitchen to feed your

needs, they offer gluten-free dough and vegan

party guests. They look forward to serving you.

cheese. The Sugar Land restaurant also features a

281-491-2890 (SL) 281-969-5074 (MC)

selection of wine and craft beer.

203 Century Square Blvd., Sugar Land

281-491-0275 blazepizza.com

5011 Hwy 6 South, Missouri City

16100 Kensington Dr. #500, Sugar Land

NOTHING BUNDT CAKES

NO FUSS LIGHTS

At Nothing Bundt Cakes, they take great pride in

Wish you could hire a lighting specialist for all

the care that goes into their baking. They use only

your holiday, event and landscape lighting? You

the freshest and most premium ingredients includ-

can! No Fuss Lights is your outdoor lighting spe-

ing fresh eggs, real butter and cream cheese to

cialist based in Houston. They offer custom out-

ensure the most fantastically flavorful cakes with

door lighting design, installation, maintenance,

rich and moist textures. From your very first bite,

removal, and storage for Christmas displays,

the warmth of nostalgia, along with a fresh and

events and parties, and landscape illumination. In

modern approach baked into each of their hand-

addition to lights, they also offer wreaths, ribbons,

crafted recipes, will gently tug at your heartstrings,

ornaments, lighted archways, and a large selection

taking you back to a time when life was a little

of lawn displays. Contact them today for a free, no-

sweet and time passed by more slowly. With a vari-

obligation quote!

ety of flavors and decorations available in bite sized

281-809-7022 Nofusslights.com

bundtinis, personally portioned bundtlets and their 10 inch decorated cakes, they are sure to make your holidays one to remember with a tradition that will last a lifetime. Trust them, when you show up with a treat this yummy, they guarantee your cake won't be 'round for long!281-491-2253 facebook.com/NothingBundtCakes order.nothingbundtcakes.com/menu/sugar-land 1531 Hwy 6, #125, Sugar Land

ç By Denman Moody

author, The Advanced Oenophile

Davis Bynum Pinot Noir Jane’s Vineyard Russian River Valley 2013 — Davis Bynum produced the first Pinot Noir from the Russian River Valley in 1973 from the Rochioli Vineyard! An unusually hot August and early September accelerated the ripening, and the harvest was completed by midSeptember. All blocks were hand-picked in early a.m., cold soaked and fermented in native yeasts. Aged in French oak (33 percent new). Aromas of cherry fruit, spice and earth. The winery recommends a truffle mushroom risotto or roasted pork with herbs and fennel. $35 Goldeneye Pinot Noir Anderson Valley Gowan Creek Vineyard 2012 — If you’re up for one of the best Pinot Noirs available at any price, seek this one out and buy it. Deep purple color with aromas of lavender and flavors of wild blackberry and dark cherries. “It is the richest and most abundantly fruit-driven of any of our Pinots,” says winemaker Michael Faye. Will just blow you away, especially with something like roasted duck with a dark cherry sauce. $82 Clos Abella Priorat 2009 — Out of over 1,000 wines blind-tasted in Hong Kong for Wine in China magazine, this amazing wine, tasted by a panel of 14 including Anthony Hanson MW and Jancis Robinson MW, was awarded 97 points and proclaimed “Best Wine in the World” for 2014. The Marco families have been winegrowers in Priorat since the 15th century. It is a blend of 50 percent Carignan, 39 percent Grenache and 11 percent Cabernet Sauvignon. This was an “Aha” moment for me regarding Carignan, just as the approximately 50 percent Cabernet Franc was, in the first, almost-perfect Maya (Napa Valley) I tasted. I could only find it in Houston at Truluck’s! $90 Denman Moody is the former publisher of Moody’s Wine Review, which the Washington Post said was “...certainly the best publication in this country for tracking the state of rare and exotic wines.” He was also the contributing editor on rare wines for the International Wine Review in New York from 1984-1990. He is an author, freelance wine writer and wine consultant. Denman is the Texas broker for the wines of Dr. Konstantin Frank, Finger Lakes, N.Y. TheAdvancedOenophile.com.

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Missouri City Honors African-American Commissioner with Parkway IMAGE COURTESY OF MISSOURI CITY

Thomas Taylor became an elected official after the Civil War

Members of the community and the Taylor family join City staff and elected officials at a ribbon cutting of Thomas Taylor Parkway.

T

homas Lane Taylor was a history maker who left a legacy in area communities of a man who would protect, preserve and promote his heritage. In his honor, Missouri City has dedicated Thomas Taylor Parkway, an approximately $2.5 million, Fort Bend County-funded extension of Lexington Boulevard from Texas Parkway to Scanlin Road south of the City Hall complex. The project includes a new traffic signal at Texas Parkway and the Thomas Taylor Parkway/Lexington Boulevard intersection. The extension also includes a bicycle lane.

During the ribbon cutting ceremony in July, Mayor Allen Owen welcomed members of the community, including Precinct 2 Commissioner Grady Prestage, who was instrumental in the completion of the County project. The new extension is an additional east-west corridor for area citizens with convenient access for motorists traveling through the Hunters Glen subdivisions to the western portion of Missouri City and Stafford.

Taylor was the first African-American Fort Bend County Commissioner who served during Reconstruction. His portrait is on display at the Fort Bend County Courthouse in Richmond. Members of

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Taylor’s family, including Fort Bend County Sgt. Eurel Taylor, were present at the ribbon cutting.

A pioneer and a family man, he summoned bravery and courage to forge a political foundation for African-Americans during Reconstruction, when he was elected and served honorably as a Fort Bend County Commissioner in the late 1800s.

Taylor summoned the courage to forge a political foundation for African-Americans during Reconstruction.

A lifelong resident of the region, he established roots as an agriculturist and cattle raiser, prospering and purchasing a homestead in Boone’s Bend in Wharton County.

His grandsons, Chancy and Tom Taylor, still reside on the land.

Taylor’s public service is extraordinary, as he became an elected official during a tumultuous time following the Civil War. In Fort Bend County, the period was marked by conflicts such as the JaybirdWoodpecker War in which two Democratic Party blocs vied for control. A heated debate

during the struggle was whether AfricanAmericans — such as Taylor — ought to have an opportunity to participate in politics. The ensuing divide raged for more than six decades. Ultimately, united alliances emerged encompassing contributions from African-Americans and whites.

Reflecting on the era, one of Taylor’s descendants noted: “In the [JaybirdWoodpecker War], they at least were honest enough to acknowledge that some black men were run out of town, while others resisted. My fifth great-grandfather on my father’s side, Tom Taylor, was one of the local black [landowners] who resisted ‘eviction’ from Fort Bend County.” However, under great duress, Taylor eventually moved his family to Wharton County.

In testament to Taylor’s triumphs, the Wharton County Historical Commission celebrated him and his family in 1986, the county’s sesquicentennial year. A proclamation affirmed that Taylor and his family “have lived in and around the community of Hungerford for 100 years or more, and have contributed to the development of this said community. It is hoped that this family will continue to reside in this area, as their presence influences and enriches the history of the community.” l

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“Mad Hatter Adventure” Oct. 30 Major fundraiser for Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels at Safari Texas Ranch

(L-R): FBS board member Guadalupe A. Cabello; NewFirst National Bank Vice President Melody Hess; FBS board member Joe Gurecky and wife Doris; Legacy Ford owner Ron Ewer; FBS Chief Executive Officer Manuela Arroyos; Mad Hatter committee co-chair Amanda Lopez; and FBS Director of Development Lori Dunaway.

O

n Friday, Oct. 30, Fort Bend Seniors (FBS) Meals on Wheels will host its major fundraising event of the year – the Mad Hatter Adventure – at Safari Texas Ranch, from 6:30-10 p.m., with Texas House member Dr. John Zerwas as this year’s honorary chair.

With the help of generous donors and community support, FBS serves more than 1,000 hot, nutritious meals daily to senior adults, aged 60 and over, who are typically unable to prepare their own meals. Funds raised during the Mad Hatter event will ensure that nutritional and social needs of seniors are met throughout the next year.

“This year’s fundraiser is a bit different from ones in the past. Instead of a midday luncheon and fashion show, we are planning an evening casino night experience,” said Manuela Arroyos, chief executive officer of FBS Meals on Wheels.

“We are more than honored to be the presenting sponsor for Fort Bend Seniors’ Mad Hatter Adventure,” said Ron Ewer, owner of Legacy Ford. “For nearly 10 years, we’ve been supporters of the organization, not only in sponsoring events, but also by enlisting teams of our employees to deliver meals on a weekly basis. We do this because we believe in supporting such a great cause; Fort Bend Seniors takes care of the elderly where they cannot take care of themselves, and we are happy to be a part of it!”

With an eager organizing committee led

by Fort Bend County residents Mandi Bronsell and Amanda Lopez, the Alice in Wonderland-themed event will feature a casino party, a Mad Hatter hat contest, music, dinner, and live and silent auctions.

All proceeds of the event will go towards maintaining the operational functions of FBS, which includes more than home-delivered

meals to homebound adults. FBS also provides daily transportation to and from one of 10 senior centers – for their more ablebodied seniors – which includes lunch and social activities, field trips, exercise and recreational programs, arts and crafts, health screenings and an abundance of additional services and resources.

Sponsorship opportunities beginning at $1,500 are still available. Additional sponsors currently include NewFirst National Bank at the Queen of Hearts level, along with Associated Testing Labs, Mandi and Chris Bronsell, Caskey Realty, and Expert Collision Center, all at the White Rabbit level.

For information about sponsorships, ticket purchases, donating auction items or volunteering, contact Lori Dunaway, director of development, at 281-633-7057 or lori@fortbendseniors.org. l

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Chloe

&

Cody

Text by Melanie Saxton Engagement photos by Nancy Abby Wedding photos by Leslie Cervantez

A sweet sign for the sweethearts. • The groom devised a creative sailboat proposal. • Arrangements of cream hydrangeas, coral carnations, quicksand and amnesia colored roses, green amaranthus, and variegated pittosporum adorn the church.

C

hloe Potter and Cody Duffy grew up 30 minutes from each other, but didn’t meet until a mutual friend introduced them at Texas A&M University. Bonded through their mutual admiration of Aggie traditions, the hometown sweethearts began a journey that culminated at the altar of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in The Woodlands — amidst military regalia and a sword arch!

Cody attended Montgomery High School and Texas A&M, earning a degree in nuclear engineering. He proudly serves the nation as an ensign in the U.S. Navy. At his side is Chloe, who attended The Woodlands High School and Texas A&M, earning a degree in biomedical science. She’s taking graduate coursework in Jacksonville, Florida, where the couple is currently stationed.

Introduction and First Date The same day Chloe and Cody were introduced, they joined mutual friends at Sbisa, a dining hall. Sophomore Cody showed freshman Chloe around the A&M campus. That night they saw The Lion King at a College Station movie theater, and a few days later Cody invited Chloe to the Grill (a place to eat on campus).

They exchanged sports passes for an Aggie football game, and Cody asked Chloe to midnight yell at the game as his date.

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The bride’s bouquet includes soft hues of nude, coral, and blush. • Stained glass frames the gorgeous bride in the church sanctuary. • The mother of the bride uses a hook to close buttons on the gown. • The couple steals a romantic kiss as wind billows the bride’s veil.

Courtship They became a couple in October 2011 and dated for more than two years, filling the days with studies, church, dining and attending Aggie football games. They enjoyed all of the A&M traditions, such as walking under the century tree, pond hopping and receiving their Aggie rings, which happened on the same day! They also camped and hiked at Pedernales Falls near Austin, and drove to west Texas to summit Guadalupe Peak, the highest natural point in Texas. Cody introduced Chloe to sailing and bought a catamaran for weekends on Lake Conroe and Galveston’s waters. Notably, they participated in many regattas and once came in first place.

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Proposal Cody planned an elaborate proposal, giving Chloe riddles and clues to solve that pinpointed the location of special dates! One clue involved the place where Cody first told Chloe he loved her. Another commemorated a special Valentine’s Day dinner. One clue involved stones… and Chloe had to search her memory back to the time Cody was hospitalized with kidney stones!

Finally, Cody asked her to pack for a trip to his grandparents’ beach house the weekend before her 21st birthday. They sailed into the middle of Galveston Bay, and suddenly Cody’s grandfather let out a sail that read, “Chloe, will you marry me?” Cody dropped to one knee and proposed. She said yes, of course, as he slid a beautiful ring on her finger.

They called family, took some pictures and eventually docked at Moody Gardens (rainforest on the beach had been another clue).

The couple toured the rainforest pyramid and went to dinner at Shearns, the restaurant overlooking Moody Gardens and the bay. To Chloe’s surprise, her family and Cody’s family joined them for a celebration dinner. Cody took her to Mardi Gras in Galveston that night. Chloe could not have asked for a more fun and perfect engagement!

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The groom is surrounded by bridesmaids. • The handsome groom dons his Naval uniform. • Holy oils: the wedding included a full mass. • The newlyweds walk back down the aisle under a sword arch.

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Engagement The couple became engaged in March 2014, which gave them about a year and three months to plan their wedding and coordinate coursework and graduation. Cody left for Officer Candidate School in Rhode Island at the beginning of June, and they made all of the major wedding decisions beforehand.

Fortunately, he had month off in August before attending additional Naval training in Virginia. Over Christmas break, the couple went house hunting in Jacksonville, where Cody was being stationed, and found a perfect condo just five minutes from the beach!

Cody began moved into their new home in January while Chloe finished her last semester at A&M. She graduated May 15, 2015 — with the wedding just one week away!

A stunning cake perches atop glass over florals. • Fun beneath a “Whoop!” sign. • The bride envisioned a reception that would glow and feel inviting. • Paper cones were filled with petals to toss at the grand exit.

The Wedding On May 23, Father Tom Rafferty officiated as Chloe’s parents, Mark and Laura Potter, and Cody’s parents, Joe and Jenifer Duffy, witnessed the union of their children.

Attire: The bride wore an ivory droppedwaist Dabra ball gown by Enzoani with a cathedral train, sweetheart neckline, tulle skirt with lace appliqué, ruched waist, pearl beaded belt, and a lace portrait neckline jacket with elbow-length sleeves. The ensemble was completed with a cathedral length sheer veil trimmed in lace and ivory, and peep-toe lace heels. She fulfilled her something old, something new, something bor-

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A beautiful couple underneath a beautiful chandelier • The cake was topped with a single rose alluding to “Beauty and the Beast." • The groom dips his bride amidst a floral cascade.

rowed, something blue items with one blue and gold brooch worn in her hair that had belonged to her Aunt Cheri, who passed away from ovarian cancer. The same brooch had adorned the bouquet at the wedding of one of her cousins. The bride also wore her mother’s blue lace garter that had been worn previously by her grandmother.

Bridesmaids wore floor-length chiffon strapless dresses by Watters, all in the same style with various hues of coral, stone, buff, French vanilla and blush. The groom wore his Navy dress whites and naval officer sword.

Groomsmen wore Vera Wang suits in dark grey with grey vests and ties that matched the color of their coordinating bridesmaid, with black tux shoes.

Bridal Party: Catherine Potter (the bride’s sister) served as maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Kristen Anderson, Sacha Garvin, Collin Baird and Caitlin Conway (all friends since high school). Abby Batula served as flower girl. Austin Woods stood as best man, with groomsmen Daniel Deyo, Hanniel Honang, Kendal Carnley and Sawyer Duffy (friends from high school and college, and his younger brother).

Merrick Russell served as ring bearer.

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Floral and Décor: Arrangements of cream hydrangeas, coral carnations, quicksand and amnesia-colored roses, green amaranthus and variegated pittosporum adorned the church. The bride’s bouquet included blush peonies, coral carnations, cream hydrangeas, quicksand spray roses, green amaranthus and dusty miller. The bridesmaid bouquets were a smaller version of the bride’s. Groomsmen, fathers and grandfathers wore a single quicksand rose boutonniere. Mothers and grandmothers held a single quicksand rose. The bride’s grandmother made buff colored pew bows to adorn the aisle.

Top Wedding Moments: “I was excited and only a little bit nervous to walk down the aisle with my dad. I had been waiting for this moment my entire life!” says the bride. Seeing her groom for the first time was exactly how she pictured it would be. “He looked just as in awe to see me as well,” she notes. Traditional Catholic vows, a first kiss at the altar and their kiss below a sword arch went off without a hitch. The bride also recalls the beautiful music during communion kneeling next to her husband. “The violinist and pianist were wonderful!”

The Reception Augusta Pines Golf Club in The Woodlands was the perfect venue for the bride’s vision of traditional elegance. She wanted everything to glow and feel warm and inviting — no bold stand-out colors, but rather soft, elegant tones of nude, coral and blush.

Floral and Décor: Sheer chiffon curtains made by the bride’s grandmother framed the dance floor. The sign-in table décor included framed photos of the couple’s parents’ and grandparents’ wedding photos placed around the guest book. A black and white poster of the A&M century tree served as the seating chart with table names and photos significant to the couple (instead of table numbers). “If you walk under it with your significant other, you will be together forever, so it was significant to us,” says the bride.

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Accessories ‰ Diabetes Awareness ‰ Alzheimer Awareness Flower arrangements from the church were placed at the bottom of the stairs in the reception area. Centerpieces of cream hydrangea, peach and amnesia roses, blush carnations, green amaranthus, variegated pittosporum and eucalyptus also adorned the tables, as well as sandstone linens, mercury-glass pedestal vases at different heights filled with flowers drooping onto the table, and cylinder vases with rose petals and a pillar candle inside. Table tops also included a round mirror in front of each place setting with a votive candle on top.

Guests’ place cards were tied onto the back of each chair with a nude colored sash and mirrored frames filled with decorative paper. Each guest’s frame had their printed name in a coordinating color with their food choice — allowing the wait staff to know what was ordered without being obvious.

The Cake: “Our cake table was one of my favorite pieces!” says the bride. The cake was placed on round glass on top of square vases filled with wickless candles to create a glow, as well as flowers in the same soft colors.” The four-tiered confection of classic French vanilla, almond and spice cake had amaretto filling and buttercream icing. The topper was a subtle tribute to Beauty and the Beast (the bride’s favorite movie) with a single blush rose under a glass dome.

Notably, the groom’s nickname in high school happened to be Beast! The couple

cut the cake with his naval officer sword, which caused a few “oohs” and “ahhs" from the guests.

Top Reception Moments: The couple’s first dance was to I Cross My Heart

by George Strait, played on a guitar and sung by a groomsman. The bride danced with her father to I Wish I Could by Collin Raye, mixed with the Barney theme song! “I think the dance lessons we took when I was home from college paid off!” says the bride.

The groom and his mother danced to Mom

by Garth Brooks. The best man surprised the couple by singing Brown Eyed Girl with the help of some of the groom’s friends. In tribute to their A&M roots, there were plenty of line dances. The A&M fight song was played near the end of the reception for all of the Aggies in attendance.

The Exit: Guests were provided patterned paper cones filled with rose petals for the them to toss. As they exited, the groom dipped the bride before whisking her away in his decorated truck.

The Honeymoon The newlyweds went “glamping” (glamorous camping) at Paws Up Resort in Missoula, Montana for six days of breathtaking outdoor scenery, hiking, white water rafting and mountain biking. Then it was off to military duties and their new life in Jacksonville with their new puppy Brinkley!l

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For Advertising Information, contact your sales representative or call 281.240.2445 ext. 128 www.fortbendlifestylesandhomes.com Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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Eddie Damian

Jerry Kipping

Leslie Haack

Frederick Black

Bill Conaway

‹Fort Bend ISD Educator Serves as Association State President Eddie Damian, talent management senior consultant in Fort Bend ISD’s Human Resources Department, will serve as President for the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA). Damian and his fellow officers on the Executive Committee were installed at

the association’s summer conference.

“TEPSA members are well represented by their state officers who advocate tirelessly for Texas students and educators at both state and national levels,” said Executive Director Harley Eckhart.

Damian, whose career education spans more than 24 years, has served members on the TEPSA Board and numerous committees for more than 10 years.

‹Foster, George Ranch High Schools Get New Leaders Two veteran Lamar CISD administrators began new leadership positions when school re-opened Aug. 24.

Jerry Kipping is the new principal at Foster High School. He served as principal at Lamar Junior High from 2010 to present.

Prior to leading Lamar Junior High, he served as an assistant principal at George and Briscoe junior high schools and Terry High School. Kipping began his career as a teacher and coach in Corpus Christi. He

Finally... Truth in Advertising Fort Bend Focus states in their media kit that their printed circulation is 25,000 copies per month to affluent homes. However, it does not state the number of homes mailed.

For over two years they had run an ad in the Fort Bend Business Journal stating that they are the only feature magazine direct mailed to almost 40,000 homes every month in Fort Bend’s most affluent subdivisions.

This was a deceptive ad and not truthful.

Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes magazine will gladly provide a postal form 3602 upon request stating how many magazines are mailed monthly.

For ad information call 281-240-2445 ext. 128

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is a graduate of Eastern New Mexico University and has a masters from Texas A&M - Corpus Christi.

Frederick Black is the new principal at George Ranch High School. Prior to taking the helm at the school, Black served as the associate principal and an assistant principal at George Ranch, beginning in 2012.

Prior to coming to Lamar CISD, Black was an administrator in Cypress-Fairbanks, and a teacher and coach in the Alief and Fort Bend school districts. Black is a graduate of Stephen F. Austin University, with two master’s degrees from Prairie View A&M University and a doctorate from Stephen F. Austin.

‹Lamar CISD Adds Two DistrictWide Administrators Lamar CISD named two district-wide administrators in advance of the 2015-2016 school year.

Leslie Haack is the District’s executive director of Secondary Education. The District’s 12 secondary schools, covering grades six through 12, are under her supervision. A graduate of the University of Kansas, she has her master’s from Prairie View A&M University. Haack’s most recent experience was as principal of George Ranch High School, which she opened in 2009. Prior to arriving at Lamar CISD, she was an administrator in Sealy and Katy schools and a teacher and coach in Katy.

She was the District’s Secondary Principal of the Year in 2014.

Bill Conaway is the District’s new director of transportation. A graduate of Texas A&M, he worked as the assistant director of transportation in Clear Creek ISD prior to coming to Lamar CISD. He also served as director of transportation at College Station ISD and worked with several school districts while at Durham Transportation. He began his career in transportation while in college with Texas A&M Bus Operations. He is a past president of the Gulf Coast Association of Pupil Transportation and chaired the Texas Association School Business Officials’ Transportation Research committee for two years.

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Braman Winery rendering.

‹Central Fort Bend Chamber Hosts Breakfast in the Bend at Braman Winery The Central Fort Bend Chamber held its monthly networking event, Breakfast in the Bend, at Braman Winery on Sept. 1. Jeff King and Sean Heyl with the winery welcomed the 100 Chamber members who attended and took guests for a tour around their new building that is projected for completion in late October/early November 2015. For more information, visit bramanbrands.com.

Robert Quarles with Morton Street Music, LLC spoke to the group about a new and upcoming event in Richmond called Concert on the Creek. The event is planned to be produced two times a year, once in the fall and again in the spring and will feature different musical artists from a variety of genres. The first Concert on the Creek will take place Oct. 30 from 6-11 p.m. at the Wessendorff Park located in the historic section of downtown Richmond. Along with the entertainment, a selection of food trucks and other food vendors will be available. For more information, visit concertonthecreek.com.

‹Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital Celebrates Construction Milestone Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital held a “Top Out” Party and beam signing recently. Topping out marks the moment the last beam is put in to place atop a structure and typically signifies the midpoint in the construction process.

“We’re excited to reach another milestone in this project,” said Greg Haralson, senior vice president and CEO of Memorial Hermann Sugar Land. “The new patient tower will provide us the opportunity to take care of more of our community members who trust Memorial Hermann for their care.”

The 155,000 square-foot patient tower is

the centerpiece of the project that will have the capacity to add 90 patient beds to the 81bed hospital. Scheduled for completion next summer, the six-story patient tower is being constructed so that four additional floors can be added at a later date.

On the other side of the campus, work continues on a 100,000-square-foot medical plaza. The medical plaza will provide space for physician offices, outpatient imaging and expanded sports medicine and rehabilitation services. The medical plaza is scheduled for completion by this December.

(L-R): Greg Haralson, senior vice president and CEO, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, Jan Downing, volunteer, and Elaine Prichard, volunteer.

“Memorial Hermann has made a commitment to the community to advance health,” said Haralson. “What we’re doing with our new patient tower and medical plaza will allow us to provide an even greater level of safe, high-quality care to the community for years to come.

‹Former Astro Daryle Ward Joins Skeeters The Sugar Land Skeeters and manager Gary Gaetti announced the signing of infielder Daryle Ward prior to the series opener against Long Island in August. Ward played 59 games with the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs earlier this year, hitting .237 with one home run and 15 RBI. Ward, 40, enters his 17th-season of professional baseball with a .290 career average.

The product of Rancho Santiago College in California was drafted by the Tigers in the 15th-round of the 1994 draft before quickly ascending to the Major League ranks in 1998.

Ward spent 11 years at the big league level with the Astros, Dodgers, Pirates, Nationals, Braves and Cubs. A career .263 hitter in MLB, he has 90 home runs and 379 RBI.

Woman getting mammogram.

‹Low-dose Radiation 3D Mammograms at Houston Methodist Breast Care Center Sugar Land The Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land now offers the latest in breast cancer screening advances – lowdose radiation tomosynthesis, also known as 3D mammography.

“Utilizing advanced breast tomosynthesis technology improves the ability to detect breast cancer at the earliest stages, while using the lowest radiation exposure available in the market,” said Stephen W. Phillips, M.D., medical director of the Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land.

Tomosynthesis provides clearer images and a more accurate screening than traditional mammograms, especially in women who have dense breast tissue. Radiologists pull images from varying perspectives to examine anything suspicious, reducing callbacks for further imaging.

The Genius™ 3D mammogram requires no additional compression and takes just a few seconds longer than a traditional 2D mammogram. The low-dose mammogram is the only breast tomosynthesis system approved by the FDA as clinically superior to conventional mammography. “We are thrilled about offering our patients this low-dose alternative,” Phillips said.

The Breast Care Center offers all-digital mammography, molecular breast imaging, breast ultrasound, breast MRI, ultrasound biopsies, stereotactic biopsies and MRI-guided biopsies. If cancer is detected, the center provides access to clinical trials and the most advanced treatments available, such as chemotherapy and hormone, drug and radiation therapy. Innovative surgical techniques and breast reconstruction surgeries are also available.

For more information, contact Jamie Prinster at 281-275-0586. For scheduling, call 281-242PINK (7465) or visit houstonmethodist.org.

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Professional Resources: Real Estate, Insurance, Finance & Law

RIVERSTONE Four Fort Bend communities are opening the doors to dozens of models this October during the “Treat Yourself to a New Home” event hosted by The Johnson Development Corp. Event-goers can tour models in Cross Creek Ranch, Imperial Sugar Land, Riverstone and Sienna Plantation from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and noon to 6 p.m. Sundays. Plus, visitors can scratch off tour “lotto” cards to see if they have won a prize. More than $20,000 in prizes will be given away. For more information, visit the website. johnsondevelopment.com.

LEIGH MATTSON RE/MAX FINE PROPERTIES Leigh is all about commitment and customer service! Her goal is to make buying or selling a home an enjoyable experience for her clients. With her background in finance and over 13 years of real estate knowledge, she will guide you through a step-by-step process that leaves you in control and making decisions that are best for achieving your goals. Leigh’s past real estate awards throughout the years have proven her dedication to exceptional customer service, being trustworthy and providing professional advice to her clients. Don’t make another move without Leigh!

713-823-6843 Leigh@Mattsonrealtor.com

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AIDA YOUNIS RE/MAX SOUTHWEST Aida is Sugar Land and Fort Bend County's #1 Realtor once again for 2014 with over $80 MILLION in sales for 2014 alone! In her career, Aida has sold over $1 BILLION of real estate, making her one of the top-producing realtors in Texas. She has earned numerous awards in her career, and just recently sold the HIGHEST SALE on record for Sugar Land.

Aida says her secret to success is to work very hard, and always go above and beyond for all her clients.

Her sellers get free staging, and for her buyers Aida can find you homes that are not even on the market!

Please call or visit her website.

713-857-9156 AidaYounis.com

MARTA MOHAN, CLHMS, ABR, QSC Marta Mohan has the energy, knowledge, professionalism and offers the best service possible.

Marta and her team, all experienced Realtors, excel in marketing your home to its full potential. In this ever-changing world, the job of a real estate professional has become more challenging than ever. It requires keeping up with the high-tech world but maintaining relationships with the client at a very personal level, using all the technology to its full potential but most importantly, listening to clients and fully understanding their needs. A great balance of high-tech and high touch!

713-851-8881 MartaMohan.com

718 MOSS HAMMOCK WAY Stunning custom Partners in Building home on oversized lot. Open floor plan, chef's kitchen, private study, dining, wine grotto and 2 bedrooms on 1st floor. Upstairs has 3 bedrooms, gameroom, and huge media room. Outdoor kitchen, large private back yard, climate controlled storage room in garage, great location and FBISD schools. Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty.

Mike Day: 713.213.1702 mday@marthaturner.com marthaturner.com

DEBBIE MARCELL BH&GRE-GARY GREENE Armed with high energy, Debbie’s sincere commitment and dedication to her real estate clients is exemplified in the professionalism, competence, and hands-on personalized service she provides. After several years in the President’s Circle and Gold Status her success rose to an all-time high in 2013 and 2014 with Debbie climbing to Emerald Elite Status which recognizes the top 2% of agents in the BH&GRE Gary Greene network. She was named as a Five Star Real Estate Professional in Texas Monthly for 2014 and 2015. A 27-year resident of Sugar Land active in community service, Debbie has extensive knowledge of the market and is passionate about helping buyers and sellers throughout the county.

281-782-2102 debbiemarcell.com

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Fort Bend County Ranks No. 1 for Incoming Investments in Texas Thriving economy continues to grow each year

JULIA MICKUM EHOME HOUSTON What’s new with Julia? A state of the art website!

It’s the go-to place for the most up to the minute information about homes for sale and what is hot in the Houston area (besides the weather!!) Start and keep your searches and wish lists on this interactive web location! Find real service providers vetted by people you know; meet real buyers and sellers who have recently been wowed by the experienced, ethical, expert… JULIA. She invites you to check out ehomehouston.com! Send her your ideas, suggestions and yes, send your criticisms too! You can help shape the best home finder site on the internet!

Cell: 281-851-2015 Office 281-499-8181 Julia@ehomehouston.com

HOLLY THOMPSON AND KASH GADDI KELLER WILLIAMS Kash and Holly have teamed up to bring years of business expertise to Fort Bend real estate. Kash’s background as President of a marketing company and Holly's career as an Investment Advisor create the perfect business know-how to ensure that both home buyers and sellers receive the most professional service with the highest quality results. They utilize traditional real estate techniques along with innovative tools and technology to get the job done. Whether you want to sell your home, buy an existing property, look into new construction or have commercial real estate needs, Kash and Holly will walk you through the process professionally and worry-free.

Kash Gaddi 832-929-2200 Holly Thompson 281-787-8915

F

ort Bend County ranked No. 1 in Texas and No. 5 in the United States as the area with the most incoming investments, according to a recent report by SmartAsset. The data, aggregated from various sources including the U.S. Census Bureau, showed that the county ranked highly in several further categories, including gross domestic product (GDP) growth, new building permits and municipal bonds.

“We have always said the best way to predict the future is to create it,” said Jeff Wiley, president and CEO of the Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council. “While we have not sought out national recognition, it is a byproduct of a dynamic growth story that has been in the making for close to three decades. Successful businesses that have invested in Fort Bend, such as Fluor Corporation, Schlumberger, Eco Labs\Nalco Champion, Texas Instruments, ALDI and Minute Maid, encourage people to seek work in the county and to live in an area that provides an exceptional standard of living and quality of life. This latest analysis simply reinforces how businesses are flourishing and that the future for new ventures in Fort Bend County is promising.”

The thriving economy in Fort Bend County continues to grow year after year, evident in the GDP increase. The county

ranked No. 10 in Texas with a GDP growth of over $3.5 million from 2013 to 2014, demonstrating that incoming investments are producing jobs and driving the county’s increased employment growth rate of 5.5 percent. Fort Bend also ranked No. 1 in Texas and No. 2 in the United States for the highest number of new building permits granted per 1,000 homes.

Municipal bonds continue to play a big role in Fort Bend County. From 2013 to 2014, the county had a municipal bonds index of 2.13, earning the No. 8 spot in Texas.

These bonds preserve and enhance factors such as mobility, water and safety and are responses to the county’s high growth in employment and residential opportunities.

Fort Bend continues to place in the top 10 in employment growth rate among the largest counties in the nation. It boasts a diverse workforce that attracts a sizable share of major corporations and Fortune 500 companies. Both the economic diversity and growing workforce are direct contributors to the county’s success.

For the full rankings list and methodology, visit smartasset.com/investing/investment-calculator - texas. For additional information about Fort Bend County, visit FortBendCounty.com or call 281-242-0000. l

Incoming investments are producing jobs and driving the county’s increased employment growth rate of 5.5 percent.

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Professional Resources: Real Estate, Insurance, Finance & Law

WATERCREST AT SUGAR LAND Watercrest at Sugar Land, an exquisite luxury community for seniors age 55 and up, is redefining what it means to retire in the 21st century. In order to fit residents’ individual needs, Watercrest offers customizable living options so residents only pay for services they need or want. Additionally, residents at Watercrest can bring their lifestyle with them while receiving all of the enjoyable benefits and luxurious amenities offered within the Sugar Land community.

1-888-492-7786 watercrestsugarland.com 744 Brooks St., Sugar Land

TERRI KURKJIAN RE/MAX FINE PROPERTIES If you are looking for top of the line in client satisfaction, look no further! Terri dedicates herself to doing a superior job throughout every real estate transaction. With Terri as your agent, you will receive top of the line photography, advertising, and great negotiating skills. She has the knowledge and passion to make your home buying or selling experience positive. Terri attributes her success to her genuine caring for each and every client. When you hire Terri, be assured that she will become part of your team and work extra hard to make sure you are satisfied. Whether you’re a buyer or a seller — it’s time to expect MORE. Call Terri!

Cell: 713-582-7911 Office: 281-980-6849 Terrikhomes.com

MERITAGE HOMES A new Meritage Homes neighborhood is open at Harvest Green, Fort Bend County’s newest master planned community, with highly energy-efficient homes starting in the lower $300s. Harvest Green’s unique concept optional backyard gardens and a Farmer’s Market, with multiple lakes and waterways, acres of parkland, walkable trails and a recreation center. Direct access to the Grand Parkway and convenient to Houston’s Energy Corridor.

877-275-6374 meritagehomes.com/houston

NANCY BENEVIDES BENEVIDES & ASSOCIATES LINDA DAY KELLER-WILLIAMS REALTY A true professional, Linda delights in helping people find their dream home. She consistently receives 5 out of 5 client experience ratings on the HAR website. As one satisfied client said, “Linda was very attentive to our requests and questions.

She is very knowledgeable and really cares about her clients. We found the perfect home and couldn't be happier!” Active in the community, Linda volunteers for East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry and is co-chairing the 7th Annual Empty Bowls event to be held April 15, 2016 at Texas Safari. Call Linda Day, “All Day Every Day” for all your real estate needs. 281-851-2273

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TRENDMAKER HOMES Trendmaker Homes’ luxury Townhomes at Imperial are designed to appeal to buyers at every stage of life. Located in Sugar Land, these low-maintenance home designs include open living spaces, first floor master suites and three-car detached garages with rear-entry accessibility; creating an exterior that is as enticing as the indoor space. The new townhomes are only a short walk down the treelined Imperial Boulevard to the community’s Historic District, a weekly Farmers Market and Constellation Field.

Eric Freeman: 281-673-3566 trendmakerhomes.com

Benevides and Associates are proud to announce that after a year and a half of being in business, they have already expanded! They have added an additional 1700 sq ft of office space and recruited two new agents to begin the amazing mentoring process. Each personally selected agent is given specialized training for 6 months in all aspects of real estate. From how to obtain a listing, to marketing, negotiating, and navigating the contracts, they ensure the highest standard of real estate service is provided. Nancy and John Benevides started their boutique real estate agency in the heart of Sugar Land to give people a new standard of highly trained professional Realtors fully equipped to handle your next real estate transaction. Whether that is residential or commercial, they do it all at Benevides and Associates!

713-203-9975 homesinsugarland.com 16525 Lexington Blvd., Ste 260, Sugar Land

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Professional Resources: Real Estate, Insurance, Finance & Law

LAGUNA SIMS LUXURY BUILDERS Urban living meets lakeside luxe! Award-winning custom homebuilder Christopher Sims with Sims Luxury Builders presents LAGUNA, a community of nine sleek and thoughtfully designed modern townhomes featuring spacious floor plans and premium appliances and finishes. Located in Lake Pointe at Highway 59 and Highway 6, these townhomes are just steps from upscale shopping, dining, and recreation along Brooks Lake. For more information call John Marr or visit the website.

John Marr 832-320-2059 LagunaSugarLand.com

GLORY AND WEST CRAFTS RE/MAX FINE PROPERTIES Glory Crafts was given the heavenly name "Glory" at birth, and that has lit the path to her journey and passion to share her faith in God. For three decades, she has helped generations of clients/friends find their dream home and find happiness and peace through God-led transactions. Glory and West, her husband, work together as "The Crowning Glory Team." West, a mortgage banker and Realtor, brings his financial expertise.They have many accolades including Lifetime Achievement, Hall of Fame, Certified Luxury Home Specialist, Texas Monthly 5-Star Realtor, Houston Magazine Super Realtor, Re/Max Ranking 15th in Texas, and a cover feature in Fort Bend Christian Magazine. 832-265-7355 (SELL) glorycrafts@hotmail.com

TDECU In 1955, a group of 10 founded TDECU with $5 each. They then made their first loan – for a $35 refrigerator. Sixty years later, their mission hasn’t changed. They recognized their 200,000th member and made over $1.3 billion in new loans in 2014, while continuing to provide their members with access to affordable, convenient credit.

They’re proud to continue the founders’ legacy and look forward to serving TDECU members for the next 60 years.

808-839-1154 x 4614 TDECU.org/mortgage

LAKE POINTE COMMONS You’ll find unparalleled quality in the homes at Lake Pointe Commons. The standard finishes and fixtures of the homes at Lake Pointe Commons are considered upgrades to most other homebuilders.

Not so with Pelican Builders. Come visit the Model Home Village at Lake Pointe Commons, located just minutes from Highway 59 and Highway 6, the epicenter of Sugar Land’s Town Center, and see what this gated community of 46 single-family homes in the Lake Pointe mixed-use development of Sugar Land is all about. For more information contact Lizz or Chris Sansone or visit the website.

Lizz or Chris Sansone: 281-753-0333 lakepointecommons.com

KERR, HENDERSHOT & CANNON Kerr, Hendershot & Cannon has built a reputation of trust, confidence and success by providing personal attention to clients nationwide for over 25 years. What makes them different from downtown Houston law firms? Primarily, they strive to be your full-service team. That means staying close to each client and handling every case in a personal, responsive way. Their lawyers focus on achieving the outcomes you deserve and doing so in an efficient and professional manner. They focus primarily on business law, health law, construction law, OSHA and family law. For experienced representation, call.

713-766-4382 www.k-hpc.com 1800 Bering, #600, Houston

CATHY STUBBS KELLER WILLIAMS Having a strong presence in the Sugar Land/Fort Bend market for 20 years, Cathy and her team have fine-tuned their service to meet the highest of expectations. Cathy believes in Sugar Land and Fort Bend County and possesses broad knowledge of the local market. As a top producer at Keller Williams she has an impressive list of satisfied buyers and sellers. Cathy is a member of the Keller Williams Luxury Division with an international network.

Superior marketing strategies and negotiating skills make Cathy Stubbs your best choice.

281-340-4120 cathystubbs.com 1650 Highway 6, Suite 350, Sugar Land

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Creighton Jaster

Ali Mahmood, M.D.

‹Creighton Jaster Named Lamar JH Principal The Lamar CISD Board of Trustees approved Creighton Jaster as the principal for Lamar Junior High School.

A graduate of Texas A&M University, Jaster has a master’s degree from the University of Houston-Victoria. Prior to taking the reins at Lamar JH, he served as an assistant principal at Lamar Consolidated High School. Jaster was also a coach, teacher and head of the science department at Briscoe Junior High.

Mahmood grew up in Houston, and after leaving Texas for medical school, residency and fellowship, he returned home to practice medicine. He has been appointed a clinical assistant professor in the department of surgery at Baylor College of Medicine, and as clinical faculty at the University of Texas Medical School at Houston. He serves as a national reviewer of two peer-reviewed journals, and has authored papers on the scope of colon and rectal surgery. He continues to perform the highest volume of colon and rectal surgeries in Fort Bend.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Mahmood, call 281-242-3300. To learn more, visit houstonmethodist.org/spg.

‹Ali Mahmood, M.D., Joins Houston Methodist Surgical Associates One of Fort Bend’s leading colon and rectal surgeons, Dr. Ali Mahmood, has joined Houston Methodist Surgical Associates. Mahmood is board certified by the American Board of Surgeons and the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery. He is the current chair of surgery at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. He also holds a leadership role on the hospital's cancer committee, is a member of the hospital's medical executive board, and was voted Male Physician of Excellence by hospital nurses and staff.

“Joining Houston Methodist Surgical Associates was an easy decision,” he said.

“I've been an active member of Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital's medical staff for many years. They exemplify values that I firmly believe in, the most important being excellent patient care. I enjoy working with the exceptional hospital staff, and feel privileged to work alongside so many highly trained and specialized physicians.”

Mahmood’s primary interest in colorectal surgery is colon and rectal cancer, along with benign diseases such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis. He also offers treatment of common anorectal disorders such as hemorrhoids and pelvic floor disorders such as rectal prolapse and fecal incontinence.

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(L-R): Realtor Sandy McClusky, buyers Johnathan Acord and Lynnsey Tirey, and Nory Mims, sales representative with Perry Homes.

‹Sienna’s Village of Sawmill Lake Welcomes First Buyers The first home sale in the Village of Sawmill Lake in Sienna Plantation did not happen by chance. It was the result of a very determined effort requiring a diligent eye and quick action. And thanks to their persistence and that of their realtor, Lynnsey Tirey and Johnathan Acord are getting the home – and neighborhood – of their dreams.

“We were already sold on the Sugar Land/Missouri City area, but when our realtor showed us Sienna Plantation, we thought it would be perfect,” Tirey said. “It has a great location and is safe and very clean. When one of Johnathan’s friends who happens to live there gave it an enthusiastic thumbs up, we were sold.”

The couple was also sold on Perry Homes, particularly a three-bedroom, open-concept design.

“They really liked this Perry design that we saw in another neighborhood, but they wanted to live in Sienna,” said realtor Sandy McClusky with RE/MAX Fine Properties. “We visited with Nory Mims at Perry Homes and asked if this plan would be available in their new neighborhood in the Village of Sawmill Lake. Lucky for us, it was.”

To ensure Tirey and Acord were able to get the plan they wanted, McClusky carefully watched when homesites were being released to the builders.

“I heard the homesites were being released and Lynnsey and I were there right away, picking out a corner lot with beautiful trees behind it,” McClusky said. “However, this was still so new, the paperwork couldn’t be generated until the next day. Johnson Development and Perry Homes really worked with us to get everything done in April.”

Alvin San Miguel, general manager of Sienna Plantation, said he wasn’t surprised the Village of Sawmill Lake is proving so popular with home buyers.

“Sienna Plantation has a strong reputation for impressive amenities, top-notch schools, beautiful homes and a warm hometown spirit,” he said. “We expected buyer interest to be enthusiastic with the number and variety of these new designs.”

“It’s been very fun picking out everything and watching the home take shape,” Tirey said. “We are very fortunate to build our first home together. And Sienna Plantation is such a great place – we just wanted to be here.”

The Village of Sawmill Lake is the first collection of neighborhoods in a 3,700-acre addition to Sienna Plantation announced last year. Builders have begun selling in nine neighborhoods with prices from the $280,000s. The village features 12 model homes and 500 homesites.

A new amenity center is planned to open in the neighborhood next year and Fort Bend Independent School District has plans to open an elementary school and middle school in 2017, increasing the number of onsite schools in Sienna Plantation to seven.

Located in Fort Bend County, Sienna Plantation is a project of The Johnson Development Corp. For more information, visit siennaplantation.com.

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Land Hospital, Johnson Development, PGAL and State Rep. Dr. John Zerwas.

For more information about the Chamber or its programs, call 281-342-5464 or email ldawson@CFBCA.org.

(L-R): Rep. Rick Miller; Ashlea Quinonez, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital; Congressman Pete Olson, Regina Morales,CEO/president of the Central Fort Bend Chamber; Ron Ewer, Legacy Ford; State Rep. Phil Stevenson; Jeff Haley, Si Enviro.

CHAMBER HOSTS CONGRESSIONAL UPDATE WITH U.S. CONGRESSMAN PETE OLSON The Congressional Update with Congressman Pete Olson hosted by the Central Fort Bend Chamber was recently held at Safari Texas Ranch. Olson has served in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2009 for the 22nd District, which covers Fort Bend County.

The 130 guests in attendance were given an update by Olson on the happenings in

Congress over the past year. Jeff Haley, president of SiEnvironmental and the Chamber’s chair-elect, served as the event emcee.

Topics covered by Olson included the economy, EPA regulations, border security, healthcare and many other issues affecting Fort Bend County. Olson concluded the event by taking questions from the audience.

Presenting sponsors for the event were Legacy Ford and Memorial Hermann Sugar Land. Event underwriters were Sterling McCall Lexus, University of Houston Sugar Land and Wharton County Junior College.

Corporate supporters included Amegy Bank, Fort Bend ISD, Houston Methodist Sugar

(L-R): Rosenberg Parks & Recreation Director Darren McCarthy, Fort Bend Cares Executive Director Angie Wierzbicki, The Pub Fountains owners Bruce and Paula Gingrich, and Fort Bend Cares board members Patty Ward and Thomas Rey.

FORT BEND CARES CONSTRUCTS HEALTHY FUN FOR KIDS IN ROSENBERG With support from The Pub Fountains, Fort Bend Cares extended its assistance to children and youth in Fort Bend County from financial to physical in the form of a new play-

ground in Community Park in Rosenberg.

The NaturePlay playground designed by the playground company Burke for children 5-12, includes slides, climbing features, a sliding pole and more. The new playground, plus a shade structure and benches, were formally approved by Rosenberg City

Mary Cook, Fort Bend County National Day Prayer coordinator, with Senior Police Officer B. G. Curtis, Public Affairs Division Clergy Liaison Unit.

POLICE AND CLERGY ALLIANCE Mary Cook recently received her Police and Clergy Alliance (PACA) badge. PACA is a volunteer clergy organization that assists the Houston Police Department in various community service projects. PACA members mentor students in need of guidance, offer support to victims and their families, and work with the community on a daily basis.

PACA’s mission is to prevent crime, enforce the law and preserve the peace by being active in the communities through volunteer service. For more information, visit HPDPACA.org.

Council in June. In consultation with local playground company, Fun Abounds, Inc., and with the help of community members and Fort Bend Cares volunteers, installation of the new playground and related improvements is set for Saturday, Oct. 24.

“While we are proud of the positive impact we have on improving the lives of children and youth in Fort Bend County through our grants to many nonprofits in the area, it is great to contribute directly to the health and well-being of children in a tangible way through the installation of a playground,” said Angie Wierzbicki, Fort Bend Cares executive director.

As of August, $56,700 of the $65,300 total cost of the project had been raised through generous corporate and individual donors.

For more information, email Wiezbicki at angie@fortbendcares.org , call 832-8192005 or visit fortbendcares.org.

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(L-R): 2015 Cinco de Mayo committee members, Linda Nolty, Cyndia Rodriguez, Loretta Rodriguez, and Angela Vasquez; FBS board member, Joanie Caskey; FBS CEO Manuela Arroyos; owner of La Cocina Mexican Restaurant and Catering, Andres Novoa; FBS board member and Missouri City Fire Chief Russell Sander; Cinco de Mayo committee member, Joe Rodriguez; Cinco de Mayo auctioneer, Shorty Yeaman; (back): FBS board chairman, Ray Aguilar.

LA COCINA PRESENTS $41K+ TO FORT BEND SENIORS MEALS ON WHEELS On Aug. 19, with the backdrop of a Sugar Land Skeeters baseball game, La Cocina Mexican Restaurant and Catering presented a check to Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels (FBS) for $41,775.81, from its annual Cinco de Mayo fundraiser. This May, La Cocina celebrated 10 years of hosting the fundraiser, benefiting FBS with cumulative contributions totaling to more than $260,000.

“We are overwhelmed with gratitude by the support and dedication shown by Andres and Rachel Novoa and the La Cocina staff and volunteers. Their annual Cinco de Mayo fundraising event helps us meet the needs of the elderly in our community,” said Manuela Arroyos, FBS CEO. “This decade-long partnership has been a pleasure, and we were honored to celebrate with the Novoas as they presented us with even more funds to feed our seniors.“ Part of Fort Bend Seniors’ mission is to help seniors remain independent and in their own homes. Therefore, FBS provides homedelivered meals to nearly 800 older adults throughout Fort Bend and Waller counties, who are unable to cook or prepare their own meals.

“I have such a passion for helping feed the senior citizens in our community, and it just always makes me proud to say FBS has no waiting list for their services,” said Andres Novoa, La Cocina’s owner. “I think the best feeling a human can have is to be able to share and give back, and I’m overjoyed I’ve been able to be a part of the FBS mission for 10 years. I will be looking forward to hosting this fundraiser again and again for the next decade!”

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(Top row, l-r): Bill Miller, Sarah Guffy, Kim McFarland, Jan Yurasek, Linda Scott, Carol MacCurdy, Abby Grobe; (4th row): Therese Ferrell, Cindy Leyva, Charlotte Sanguinetti, Berta Toraño; (3rd row): Janice Dufour, Sally Saurmilch, Jenny Howard; (2nd row): Sharon Jenkins, Michelle Lanoux, Evy Fariss, Norma A. Tays; (front row): Cheri Flick, Rachel Gutierrez and Dorothy Cox.

FORT BEND HARRIS RETIRED EDUCATORS HONORS NEW MEMBERS New retirees were honored at the Fort Bend Harris Retired Educators (FBHRE) Oh Happy Day luncheon held in August. FBHRE is the local unit of the Texas Retired Teachers Association. One of their activities this year will be the Children’s Book Project, a statewide service activity to place books into the hands of children who otherwise would not have books of their own.

The Sept. 10 meeting topic is “Auto Theft Prevention” with Sgt. Jay McClellan, Missouri City Police Dept. FBHRE meetings are held the second Thursday of the month at 1 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 431 Eldridge Rd. in Sugar Land. All school retirees are welcome to attend.

Visit localunits.org/fortbendharris to get more information.

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Assistant Principal Jackie Boyd and Principal Melissa Bolding with students at the Popsicle Party.

COLONY MEADOWS ES PLANS A “SUPER” YEAR

Christian (left) and Justin Lee.

Colony Meadows Elementary's “Dynamic Duo,” new Principal Melissa Bolding and Assistant Principal Jackie Boyd, are gearing up for a super year. In July, they hosted a Meet & Greet in the school library for families of CME. Recently, they hosted a Popsicle Party on the playground for all CME students and families. Dressed in a Spiderman costume, Dr. Anthony Indelicato even surprised faculty, staff, volunteers, and students with a “heroic” appearance at the school. Dr. Indelicato's visit pumped everyone up for a super year. Also, every hallway in Colony Meadows Elementary reminds students that they have the ability and power to all be Super Heroes. With their theme in place, students and teachers are celebrating that, "At CME... everyone is a Super Hero!"

Shown with their new backpacks and school supplies are students (from left) Morgan Williams, Lena Moton, Emiliano Ortiz with (back) Dr. Yvette Blake, principal at Lantern Lane Elementary School; Vicki Luna, Fluor community and public affairs coordinator; Barbara Jones, Fluor senior manager of community relations; and Sandra Adair, assistant principal at Lantern Lane Elementary School.

FLUOR HELPS LANTERN LANE ELEMENTARY STUDENTS GO BACK TO SCHOOL To help ensure that students are equipped with the materials they need to begin a successful school year, Fluor Corporation donated 300 backpacks filled with school supplies to Lantern Lane Elementary School. Fluor employees donated more than $38,000 toward their backpack program that benefited students in three area school districts. Lantern Lane Elementary is the only Fort Bend ISD school to receive Fluor backpacks this year.

In appreciation of the generous donation, Lantern Lane Elementary Principal Dr. Yvette Blake presented Fluor Community Relations representatives Barbara Jones and Vicki Luna with a community service award in acknowledgement of Fluor’s commitment to serving others and their community.

“We appreciate Fluor for providing our students with backpacks and school supplies,” said Dr. Blake. “Their generosity will be felt by students and their families throughout the school year as they carry their backpacks to and from school each day.”

Fluor will continue its partnership with Lantern Lane Elementary School throughout the school year as employees serve as tutors, mentors, Career Day speakers, and in other volunteer capacities.

TROOP 1845 BROTHERS EARN EAGLE SCOUT - Justin Lee of Boy Scout Troop 1845 received the rank of Eagle Scout in May, while his older brother Christian (also from Troop 1845) earned his Eagle Scout in January 2014. This is the highest rank awarded by the Boys Scouts of America.

Justin, a sophomore at the Medical Science Academy at Hightower High School, and Christian, a senior at Clements High School, began their scouting journey as Cub Scouts. The brothers started Cub Scouts in Pack 1882 at Commonwealth Elementary School – Christian as a Wolf Cub Scout in 2005 and Justin as a Tiger Cub Scout in 2006. Both completed the Arrow of Light, the highest rank in Cub Scouting.

Their path to Eagle Scout involved numerous camping nights, merit badges, leadership positions and service activities. As part of the Eagle requirement, each boy was required to complete an Eagle project demonstrating both leadership and planning skills.

Christian, in addition to building picnic tables and moving and reassembling wooden shelves for the Gracewood Women’s Shelter, oversaw repairs of their sprinkler system. Justin led a group of friends, scouts and scouters in pouring concrete for a cement walkway at the Gracewood Women’s Shelter.

Since earning his Eagle Scout, Christian has also achieved the Bronze Palm award, while Justin is a member of the Order of Arrow – the national honor society of the Boy Scouts of America.

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(L-R): Kate Munson, Rifaa Tajani, Julia Black, Kathleen Durbin and Julie Black at Texana Center.

LOCAL GIRLS RECEIVE GIRL SCOUT SILVER AWARD Four girls from Girl Scout Troop 28028 Julia Black, Kathleen Durbin, Kate Munson and Rifaa Tajani- of Brazos Valley Community have earned the Girl Scout Silver Award—the highest award a Girl Scout Cadette can earn. The girls showed that they were leaders who are organized, determined, and dedicated to improving

their community by completing a Take Action project that addressed a need in the community and makes a lasting difference.

The girls chose a project with Texana Center, whose mission is focused on creating and delivering life changing services to people needing behavioral, intellectual and developmental care, support and educa-

tion. The girls created additions to the Center’s sensory room which is equipped to provide either stimulation or relaxation through touch, sounds, color and other visual features for adults with more profound intellectual disabilities. Munson and Durbin made 12 portable sensory boards used to enhance small motor skills. The boards also had various textures to touch and experience. Tajani and Black created CD’s with nature sounds and classical music to be played in the sensory room. Research shows that music stimulates the five senses.

The girls also provided rain sticks and tambourines for patient use. The girls enjoyed choosing the music for the CD’s.

Christina Travis-Rivas, Texana Learning Center Manager said, “We were delighted to receive these sensory items for our clients.

They will help encourage learning, motor development, emotional development, language and social interaction skills. We are very lucky to have teens that are so caring.”

Faculty and staff at Austin High School launch the year with a pep rally.

FORT BEND ISD KICKS OFF 2015-16 SCHOOL YEAR WITH DISTRICT-WIDE RALLIES - Excitement was felt throughout Fort Bend ISD as employees gathered for the 20152016 back to school rallies to kick off the new school year. The District hosted 14 mini events August 14–20 to accommodate more than 10,000 employees represented at each FBISD campus and facility. Employees enjoyed inspirational messages, spectacular student and staff performances, video presentations, roll calls of participating cam-

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puses, dance-offs, and lots of laughter and cheer.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Charles Dupre joined board members and members of the Executive Team in welcoming staff and emphasizing their commitment to working together to support employees in various roles in the District.

“We are focused on helping teachers deliver, because the heart of all we do is in

the classroom,” said Dr. Dupre. “And teachers and campus employees can’t do their jobs without the support of bus drivers, cafeteria workers, facilities crews, central office staff and all other employees. We’re one team, and everyone’s job is important in ensuring that our students are successful.”

Relationship and team building were underlying themes throughout the rallies.

Board President Grayle James spoke of the importance of forming relationships with students, saying, “There are many students coming to you this year, some brand new. I encourage you to build positive relationships with your students. Doing so makes all the difference in their educational experience.”

Motivational speaker Aric Bostick kicked off the rally for auxiliary and central office staff at Wheeler Field House.

One of the rally highlights took place when Dr. Dupre encouraged employees to embrace the fact that they represent Fort Bend ISD. “In everything you do, whether on campus or at a neighborhood grocery store, you represent Fort Bend ISD,” he said. Before employees returned to their worksites, they confirmed their commitment to the District and to each other by proclaiming, ”I AM FORT BEND ISD!”

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Board certified Orthodontists specializing in orthodontics for children & adults

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Han Wen Zhang in front of her mural at DePelchin’s Children Center.

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT PAINTS MURAL FOR CHILDREN’S CENTER Han Wen Zhang, a Sugar Land resident and senior at Clements High School volunteered her summer to paint a 24 foot by 6 foot mural at DePelchin’s Children Center in Richmond.

Home to a dozen children, DePelchin’s Richmond campus is a quaint, close-knit community providing regular therapy treatment to its young residents. The mural, painted in the interior gym, features five larger-than-life silhouettes. Facility manager Eva Armstrong stated, “The mural simply brings the blank walls to life!!!”

What rests behind the bold vivid colors, however, is an unexpected cultural memoir. Han Wen cites her inspiration back to childhood days with her grandparents, who kept a small Chinese cut paper collection. “Something about those single-colored shapes evokes a sense of purity,” she said, “I remember sketching designs for the mural then abruptly thinking, ‘THIS is it!’”

At 17, Zhang is already an artist on the rise. A recipient of the Houston Mayor’s Art Scholarship, she met with Mayor Annise Parker in May to present and discuss her artwork. Her winning piece is still on exhibition with the Houston Arts Partners. In her sophomore year, Han Wen gained recognition at the Texas Visual Arts Scholastic Events where her piece earned a Gold Seal Rating, ranking it among the top one percent in the state. It has since been showcased in high schools over Texas. Using her talent to serve the community, she is the logo designer for local rising nonprofit Advocates of Healthy Minds and teaches a weekly pastel painting class at Sugar Land’s Harman Senior Recreation Center. A young entrepreneur, Han Wen is the founder and owner of her registered startup company, Studio Han Wen, where she dabbles with private commissions.

Han Wen’s work will be exhibited at the University Library in Sugar Land throughout October. More of her work can be found on studiohanwen.com. She can be reached at studiohanwen@gmail.com.

Scott Huang, DDS, MS & Jane Lu, DMD, MS

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Adan Hernandez

(L-R): Joshua Bonnette, Ford Hash, Malik Wilson and Anthony Lawn.

TROOP 140 EAGLE SCOUT RECIPIENTS NAMED Sienna Plantation's BSA Troop 140 is celebrating its most recent Eagle Scout recipients. Joshua Bonnette, Ford Hash, Malik Wilson and Anthony Lawn have camped, hiked and canoed with each other since they were 6 years old and in Cub Scouts.

Bonnette's Eagle project benefited the Ridge Point High School Band whose band room was without adequate storage to protect their percussion equipment. Bonnette led a team of band students and Scouts to build storage cabinets for the band's marching percussion instruments. Bonnette attended Ridge Point High School and graduated Magna Cum Laude. He has been awarded the Mirabeau Presidential Scholarship to study Mechanical Engineering at Lamar University.

Hash's Eagle Project benefited the Dulles High School Band where their many trophies, dating back to the 1960s, were piling up on the floor and atop cabinets. Hash led a team to build and install eight trophy shelves in the band hall. Band students and Scout friends cleaned and arranged in chronological order all of the trophies and arranged them on the new shelves for future DHS students to be inspired by the legacy that has gone before them. Hash attended Dulles High School's Math and Science Academy and graduated Cum Laude and is a National Merit Scholar.

He has been awarded the Regent's Gold Scholarship to study Computer Science at Baylor University.

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Wilson's Eagle Project benefited the Star of Hope which supports Houston's homeless community. Wilson organized and held a clothing drive to replenish their diminished winter inventory, coordinating his effort with local churches. Wilson attended Hightower High School's Medical Academy. He has been awarded the Morehouse Academic Scholarship to study Finance as a Pre-Law student at Morehouse College.

Lawn's Eagle Project benefited Quail Valley Middle School. Lawn led a team to construct a kiosk to teach middle school students about computer science, and to teach basic concepts, especially Scratch, an MIT developed tool for learning how to program.

The kiosk was placed in the school's library.

Lawn attended Ridge Point High School and graduated Cum Laude. He has been awarded the Academic Excellence Scholarship to study Computer Science at the University of Texas at Dallas.

FOSTER STUDENTS HONORED AT TOUCHDOWN CLUB OF HOUSTON Three senior Foster student athletes were honored by the Touchdown Club of Houston at the 49th Spring Sports Scholar-Athlete Dinner in May. Foster wrestler Adan Hernandez was named the Male ScholarAthlete of the Touchdown Club for 2015.The dinner was presented by the Bank of River Oaks and was held at the JW Marriott Hotel.

Hernandez was one of four scholar-athletes from Lamar CISD nominated among 18 cate-

gories. The Foster nominees were Lindsey Etzler, who was named the category winner in volleyball, and Kendall Pryor, softball finalist. The Touchdown Club of Houston sponsors the event each year. Students were judged on academic prowess, athletic ability and citizenship, incorporated into extra-curricular activities.

Professor Kris Yee and student Carmen Gaas.

CALVARY EPISCOPAL PREP OFFERS COURSE WITH HBU - This year, Calvary Episcopal Preparatory students in grades 6-12 who have shown great aptitude in English and social sciences have an opportunity to enroll in a dual-enrollment course through Houston Baptist University.

(HBU). The students are taking English 1320: Writing for Wisdom I: Greeks, Romans, and Early Christianity. Calvary currently has 10 students participating in this endeavor and the onsite professor is Kris Yee..

According to the course syllabus, “The Academy at Houston Baptist University exists to extend the challenge and rewards of university style classes to Houston area [high school] students, providing them with the opportunity to earn transferable college credit along the way. Each class is designed to immerse the student in an essential era or theme in western history, literature, philosophy and culture through reading of the original texts that shaped the world. Writing for Wisdom I: Greeks, Romans, and Early Christianity teaches the fundamentals of college reading, thinking, and writing from a classical, Christian perspective.�

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TRAVIS HIGH BELLES DANCE TEAM 2015-2016 Celebrating its 10-year anniversary, the Belles Dance Team consists of sophomores, juniors, and seniors chosen annually by dance audition. More than dancers, the Belles also are student leaders inside and outside the classroom, promoting school spirit and good sportsmanship. The girls also hold

monthly community service projects, such as collecting school supplies for those in need and supporting Lunches of Love by donating decorated lunch bags and ingredients for the children’s lunches. The team’s director is Gina Tolar and assistant director is Katherine McMullin.

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Travis High School Belles Dance Team 2015-2016: (front row, 3-year members, l-r): Lily Hurta, Sherry Zhang, Mikayla Bailey, Jordan Ivanignilio, Lauren Johnson, Krista Guthrie, Kaitlin Bailey, Taylor Davenport, Florencia Caceres, Aashia Wemigwans, Nathalie Alfaro; (center row, 2-year members): Alyssa Oberle, Chioma Dedeibe, Morgan Mitchell, Aleena Macumber, Aqsa Momin, Jordan Greer, Maddie Menke, Maddie Goodwin, MacKenzie Finlayson, Kirsten Hyde, Avery Dawson, Erin Criner, Ella Rodriguez, Casey Ferniz, Kaitlyn Chalmers; (back row, 1-year members): Raegan Levias, Daniella Obou, Mariah St.Germain, Navia White, Sydney Rutledge, AmyJo Farrar, Haley Wisnieski, Marissa Gonzalez, Brinley Peterson, Claire Brown, Crystal Arellano, Morgan Goloway, Brayda Blair, Elvia Barahona and Morgan Dittler.

The Belles’ Dance Officers (l-r): Taylor Davenport, senior lieutenant; Maddie Goodwin, captain; Florencia Caceres, colonel; Sherry Zhang, senior lieutenant; Jordan Greer, junior lieutenant.

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The Belles’ Social Officers (l-r): Kaitlyn Chalmers, historian; Aleena Macumber, chaplain; Krista Guthrie, vice president; MacKenzie Finlayson, secretary; and Kaitlin Bailey, president.

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Friday Night (aNd some saturday) Lights!

A look at Fort Bend high school varsity football

By Anna Saikin Are you ready for some football? Fort Bend high schools and their loyal and fervent fans are! Here’s an overview of this season’s FBISD varsity teams. A full football schedule also can be found on page 141.

AUSTIN BULLDOGS When we met up with the Austin Bulldogs before their first scrimmage, the varsity team was getting ready for the team photographs, wearing new red jerseys.

Their catch phrase — “bring the hammer” — was in full force as each team member pitched in to wrap up their annual fundraiser. Coach Daniel Schreiber anticipates that the Bulldogs will have a strong season. He cited the support of the trainers, dedicated coaching staff, loyal fan base, and, of course, the players’ hard work in the off season as the reason why the team hopes to build on last year’s successes.

CLEMENTS RANGERS When we met up with the Clements Rangers, Coach Keith Knowles was in the midst of a grueling practice.

We spoke with Coach Israel De Los Santos, the head baseball coach and a member of the Rangers coaching staff, who noted the players’ dedication. The Rangers have an older team this year, though many are new to the varsity squad.

As drumbeats from the marching band echoed through the parking lot, the Rangers pushed themselves to complete drill set after drill set under the watchful eye of Coach Knowles.

Players to Watch: Jacob Stoltenberg (SR) running back Alex Gifford (SR) running back Rashawn Slater (JR) outside linebacker Adam Cervenka (SR) tight end

Homecoming Game: Clements vs. Kempner (Mercer Stadium) 9/11 at 7 p.m.

Players to Watch: Orryn Nicholson (JR) running back Andrew Chadderdon (SR) quarterback Griffin Weinstein (SR) defensive back Darius Milton (JR) wide receiver

Homecoming Game: Austin vs. Dulles (Mercer Stadium) 10/23 at 7 p.m.

BUSH BRONCOS The Bush Broncos have demonstrated their ability to dominate in the early season. Coach Allen Aldridge leads an experienced defense, with sophomore Zavier Clark making strong plays as the quarterback. If you attend a Broncos game, don’t leave at halftime! The Broncos are known for keeping the energy up well into the fourth quarter.

DULLES VIKINGS The Dulles Vikings endured a rough season last year, but Coach William Flemming hopes to turn around their nowin record with an older and more experienced team. Players are showing more leadership on and off the field, and the energy was high during pre-season practice. Uptempo beats kept the Vikings in good spirits as they rehearsed the plays for their winning game against North Forest.

Players to Watch: Ben Gansallo (JR) defensive tackle Nick Livingston (JR) defensive end Campbell Cooper (SR) offensive tackle Luke Metzer (JR) quarterback

Homecoming Game: Players to Watch: Otis Lanier (SR) wide receiver Alexander Wade (SR) safety Zavier Clark (SO) quarterback

Homecoming Game: Austin vs. Marshall (Mercer Stadium) 10/8 at 7 p.m.

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Dulles vs. Kempner (Mercer Stadium) 10/9 at 7 p.m.

ELKINS KNIGHTS The Elkins Knights displayed their competitive edge in the season’s opening non-district games. Coach Dennis Brantley and the offensive line led by quarterback Romanon Skinner will work to advance their team in district standings, especially since their ranking has advanced to the top 20 in the State AP Poll.

Players to Watch: Joshua Izi (JR) halfback Troy Burnett (SR) linebacker Romanon Skinner (SR) quarterback

Homecoming Game: Elkins vs. Willowridge (Hall Stadium) 10/9 at 7 p.m.

HIGHTOWER HURRICANES Summer practice has helped the Hightower Hurricanes start the season with two victories. Coach Padriac McGinnis and the offensive line led by Neiko Hollins hope to regain their chance at a state championship that narrowly eluded them in 2012. The Hurricanes have shown their willingness and ability to make explosive plays as they continue to hone their positions during the season.

Players to Watch: Neiko Hollins (SR) quarterback Robert Grays (SR) center, wide receiver Michael Johnson (SR) defensive end

Homecoming Game: Hightower vs. Clements (Hall Stadium) 9/18 at 7 p.m.

KEMPNER COUGARS A winning season was just out of reach for the Kempner Cougars last year, as they lost six games by only 19 points.

Coach Darrin Andrus credits his team with a great attitude and with a large group of younger players, has high hopes and expectations for the 2015-16 season. Sophomore quarterback Alec Carr was hard at work perfecting his offense’s use of the option, and Coach Andrus enthusiastically notes that his team is the only one in the district using plays from Navy’s offense.

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Players to Watch: Jordan Ward (SR) defensive back, safety Colby Usher-Bryant (SR) running back Ferris Green (SR) running back Alec Carr (SO) quarterback Dalton Perez (JR) lineman

Homecoming Game: Kempner vs. Travis (Mercer Stadium) 9/18 at 7 p.m.

MARSHALL BUFFALOS The Buffalos have had a strong start to the season, going 2-0 against stiff competition. Their long history of college recruitment means that they are sure to light up the field when they play. Coach James Williams has led the team over the past five years and has developed talent in both the offensive and defensive lines that are ready to take on new challenges as the season progresses.

TRAVIS TIGERS On our visit the Travis Tigers were hard at work practicing drills after their scrimmage with C. E. King High School. Coach Trey Sissom noted that this year’s team is younger than last year’s in terms of experience because most of the 38 seniors were not on the varsity squad the year before. As the Tigers sweated through practice in the August heat, Coach Sissom and his staff intensely worked with each player to set the roster for the upcoming season that promises to be competitive and exciting.

Players to Watch: Joshua Frenchwood (SR) back end Will Farra (JR) offensive tackle Greg Kimpler (SR) offensive tackle

Homecoming Game:

WILLOWRIDGE EAGLES The Willowridge Eagles have started to a mixed season, going 11 against their first two opponents, but the 1982 State Champions can expect good things this season from seniors Chad Zeno and Rondell Mars. Coach Richard Lazarou continues to strengthen the team’s unity after several years of high coaching staff turnover, aided by junior Jeremiah Sanders and the offensive line.

Players to Watch: Rondell Mars (SR) wide receiver Donald Mitchell (SR) cornerback Jeremiah Sanders (JR) quarterback Chad Zeno (SR) running back

Homecoming Game: Willowridge vs. Santa Fe (Hall Stadium) 10/3 at 6 p.m. l

Travis vs. Hightower (Mercer Stadium) 9/24 at 6 p.m.

Players to Watch: Jeremy Smith (SR) quarterback Jared Scroggins (SR) defensive tackle Adrion Robertson (JR) running back

Homecoming Game: Marshall vs. Santa Fe (Hall Stadium) 10/17 at 1 p.m.

RIDGE POINT PANTHERS Coach Brett Sniffin and the Panthers have high expectations for this season.

The offensive line, headed by seniors Travis Bruffy, Marcus Montemayor and Jack Greene, has demonstrated its leadership during summer practice and will carry the team early in the season as they compete for the district championship.

Players to Watch: Travis Bruffy (SR) tight end Marcus Montemayor (SR) tight end Brandon Chevalier (SR) center Jack Greene (SR) tight end Gabe Jacques (JR) tight end David Packard (SR) wide receiver

Homecoming Game: Ridge Point vs. Bush (Hall Stadium) 10/2 at 7 p.m.

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2015-2016 Stephen F. Austin Angels.

AUSTIN HS ANGELS MAKE A DIFFERENCE On Saturday, Aug. 22, the award-winning Austin Angels celebrated the induction of new members in ceremonies held at Stephen F. Austin High School. The rookie class this year is made up of 24 young ladies from Austin High School. The Austin Angels are the school’s dance team. During the induction ceremony, each inductee recognizes her responsibility to the team as she is officially inducted into the Angels family by her “big sister.”

The Angels realize everything they do and think affects the people in their lives, and their reactions in turn affect others. Therefore, they also believe in community service. One of the goals for the Austin Angels 2015-2016 is Giving Back. The Angels’ adopt-a-family project is just one of many that the Angels could participate in as well as an Angels’ Junior Clinic in the spring for younger girls to learn about dance and what it means to be part of a team.

The Angels also recently held a “back to school” drive. While these drives usually focus on school supplies for kids, the Austin Angels held their event to address the fact that some students do not have “new” clothing to wear to school. The clothing drive was a partnership with Shared Dreams, a program that provides students in need with clothes and basic supplies so they can feel better about themselves. In turn, recipients are better able to focus on school work and being kids. Shared Dreams helps over 4000 FBISD students each year. Since Shared Dreams is run completely on donations, they were extremely appreciative of this donation of over 20 bags of clothing to ensure a high quality shopping experience for their customers.

For more information about Shared Dreams, visit forttbendisd.com/Page/198.

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(L-R): Alvin San Migel, vice president and general manager, The Johnson Development Company-Sienna Plantation; Tiffany Johnson, math/science specialist; Lavanta Williams, principal at Heritage Rose who “clowned around” all day; volunteer student Cecilia, Carrie DeSmith, special education aide; and volunteer student Kaylee.

HERITAGE ROSE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL HOSTS CARNIVAL-THEMED “MEET AND GREET” - To welcome students to the 2015-16 school year, Heritage Rose Elementary School hosted a “Meet and Greet” that welcomed students from all grade levels. The carnival-themed event gave students and their parents/guardians an opportunity to meet school administrators and staff members, and visit with teachers to discuss student expectations, curriculum, and classroom procedures. Families also enjoyed various carnival games and activities (including bean bag toss and face painting), as well as food and drinks.

Heritage Rose Elementary School staff and students thank The Johnson Development Company-Sienna Plantation for sponsoring the event.

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Fbisd varsity Football schedule

austin date

8/28 9/4 9/11

opponent

location

9/26 10/2 10/8 10/16 10/23 10/29 11/5

Klein Forest Mercer Seven Lakes Mercer Hightower Hall BYE WEEK Clements Mercer Travis Mercer Elsik Crump Hastings Crump Dulles Mercer Taylor Mercer Kempner Mercer

date

opponent

bush time

date

7:00 7:00 7:00

8/28 9/5 9/12

6:00 7:00 6:00 7:00 7:00 6:00 6:00

9/25 10/2 10/8 10/17 10/23 10/31 11/6

opponent

location

Alief Taylor Crump Hou Madison Butler Klein Oak Memorial BYE WEEK Willowridge Mercer Ridge Point Hall Marshall Mercer Texas City Mercer Santa Fe High School Elkins Mercer Galveston Ball Courville

clements time

date

7:00 6:00 6:00

8/29 9/4 9/11 9/18 9/26

7:00 7:00 7:00 6:00 7:00 6:00 7:00

10/10 10/16 10/22 10/30 11/5

dulles 8/27 9/3 9/11 9/17

location

10/2 10/9 10/15 10/23 10/30 11/6

North Forest Hall Terry Traylor Elsik Crump Hastings Mercer BYE WEEK Taylor Crump Kempner Mercer Hightower Hall Austin Mercer Clements Mercer Travis Mercer

date

opponent

8/28 9/5 9/11 9/18 9/24 10/1 10/9 10/15 10/23 10/30

Eisenhower Thorne Ridge Point Hall Austin Hall Clements Hall Travis Mercer Elsik Hall Hastings Crump Dulles Hall Taylor Crump Kempner Hall BYE WEEK

date

opponent

date

6:00 7:00 7:00 6:00

8/28 9/4 9/11

date

opponent

7:00 6:00 7:00 7:00 6:00 6:00 7:00 6:00 7:00 7:00

8/27 9/3 9/11 9/18 9/24 10/3 10/9 10/17 10/30 11/5

Pasadena Sam R. Mercer Clear Falls Veterans Mem. Clements Mercer Travis Mercer Elsik Crump Hastings Mercer Dulles Mercer Taylor Hall BYE WEEK Hightower Hall Austin Mercer

time

date

opponent

8/29 9/5 9/12 9/25 10/2 10/9 10/15 10/23 10/29 11/6

Clear Creek Hall Hightower Hall Stratford Hall BYE WEEK Marshall Hall Bush Hall Santa Fe High School Elkins Mercer Galveston Ball Courville Willowridge Hall Texas City High School

6:00 6:00 6:00

8/29 9/4 9/12 9/18 9/24 10/2 10/10

Seven Lakes Tully Katy Hall Taylor Mercer Kempner Mercer Hightower Mercer Austin Mercer Clements Mercer BYE WEEK Elsik Crump Hastings Mercer Dulles Mercer

location

time

date

opponent

time

6:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 6:00 6:00 7:00 6:00 7:00 6:00

6:00 6:00 7:00 7:00 6:00 6:00 7:00 6:00

8/28 9/3

7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00

10/24 10/31 11/6

time

7:00 7:00 7:00 6:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 6:00 7:00

marshall

7:00 6:00

9/18 9/25 10/2 10/8 10/17 10/23 10/31 11/5

time

date

6:00 7:00 6:00 7:00 6:00 7:00 6:00

8/28 9/3 9/10

travis location

location

9/26 10/2 10/9 10/15 10/23 10/31 11/6

kempner time

opponent

Bellaire Butler Lamar Del Mar A&M Cons.

High School BYE WEEK Texas City Hall Galveston Ball Courville Willowridge Hall Ridge Point Mercer Marshall Hall Bush Mercer Santa Fe Hall

7:00 7:00 6:00 7:00 7:00 7:00

ridge point location

location

Katy Taylor Mercer Alvin Memorial Kempner Mercer Hightower Hall Austin Mercer BYE WEEK Travis Mercer Elsik Mercer Hastings Mercer Dulles Mercer Taylor Crump

elkins time

hightower location

opponent

location

Madison Hastings

Hall Crump BYE WEEK Foster Traylor Ridge Point Hall Texas City High School Bush Mercer Santa Fe Hall Elkins Hall Galveston Ball Hall Willowridge Hall

time

7:00 6:00 7:30 7:00 7:00 7:00 1:00 7:00 1:00 7:00

willowridge

1:00 1:00 7:00

9/25 10/3 10/9 10/16 10/23 10/29 11/5

opponent

location

Brazosport Hopper El Campo Hall Stafford Hall BYE WEEK Bush Mercer Santa Fe Hall Elkins Hall Galveston Ball Hall Texas City High School Ridge Point Hall Marshall Hall

time

7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 6:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00

Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | October 2015 |

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Shelter from the Storm

By Mara Soloway ome of the tens of thousands of evacuees from New Orleans who settled in the Houston area post-Hurricane Katrina feel that Houston doesn’t have the neighborhood sensibilities or the cultural energy that are intrinsic to New Orleans. But some who came here from NOLA’s poor neighborhoods found unambiguous reasons to stay: an improved environment for their families with better schools and a sense of overall safety superior to the old neighborhood. A decade later, some even say that the hurricane forcing them to leave their home was a blessing in disguise that offered a second chance.

One of those people is Allen Watson, now a 17-year-old senior at Elkins High School.

He had just started second grade in the NOLA neighborhood of Carrolton the night the hurricane struck.

“I remember it was raining. Me and my three younger brothers and sisters were all sitting in the same room confused,” he said.

“We left at first, then we came back because we didn’t think anything was wrong.” In the middle of the night, he and his immediate family and aunt and grandmother were on the road, with some in one car on the way to Mississippi and some headed to Houston, where they eventually all gathered and stayed, beginning the process of starting new lives.

“My mom brought us together in Houston to be with my grandma and aunt.” Everybody but his immediate family has moved back.

His mom and stepdad agreed that opportunities were better here for the children.

However, for Allen, life here had a rough start: his family and aunt and grandmother lived in one hotel room for months, the adults looking for jobs. Fortunately, he was interested in school and he had enough clothing so he didn’t have to wear uniforms given out by the school. He didn’t want anyone’s pity.

photo by mara soloway

Allen Watson makes the most of his second chance in life

S

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That concern is no longer warranted.

Through the efforts Allen has put into his education, this soft-spoken, bright teen now has earned the respect of educators nationwide and that of his peers. Last year as a junior, he earned the honor of speaking at the national Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) Summer Institute in San Antonio this July. His first-place essay was chosen from 180 essays from around the U.S. He says trip to San Antonio was the best day of his life. “I felt like a celebrity. They liked what I had to say. My relatives at home in New Orleans said I was giving them some hope. They called me king.”

He told his story to thousands of educators, of how Hurricane Katrina gave him a second chance. It was in the classroom back home “that no one cared. My teachers would often get frustrated from the behavior and leave, not only their job, but the uneducated.

Therefore, I cared even less about school,” he told the AVID audience. The hurricane and subsequent relocation were “really a wakeup call for me. I had a second chance at life...

After waiting months to go back to school, I did something I had never done before: I made an A. And not just one: straight A’s.”

Allen entered Elkins by getting accepted into its elite Engineering Academy, which

Allen Watson’s presentation about what the stop sign means to him inspired a teacher to encourage his participation in AVID.

he says helped keep him focused on doing well.

“Over the years, I grew to be something my people from home had never heard of or seen before: I became a successful young black male,” he said in San Antonio. He was in Pre-AP classes, played football and ran track, made the honor roll and belonged to two clubs. “I was definitely thinking about college, I just didn’t know how I was going to get there.”

Enter Allen’s freshman English teacher, Lindsey Tucker, who first introduced him to AVID after she was inspired by a presentation he gave at the end of his freshman year about the metaphor of the stop sign.

“It symbolizes good and bad in my life.

The stop sign is located on the corner where drug deals take place, where people get killed. The stop was always there – I was even raised by one. But every time I thought about doing bad, it stopped me from doing bad,” he explained. “It symbolizes the blood, sweat and tears that it takes to get where you want to go in life.”

Tucker talked to him about AVID. “She told me she could help me get into college and go on college trips. I didn’t take it seriously at first.” He procrastinated getting the AVID form signed by his mother. Once she had signed it, he still didn’t turn it in.

Teacher Alexia Alexopoulos finalized the administrative details, and Allen became part of AVID in his sophmore year.

Alexopoulos is the English department head and AVID coordinator at Elkins, where she has worked for 16 years. She currently teaches English II Pre-AP and AVID IV. “Allen is driven the most when someone doubts him – it is then that he proves that person wrong. He was always been committed to his education and success, but AVID gave him a roadmap to that suc-

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cess. It was through this program that he realized how to achieve the goal he had set,� she said. “I truly see a very bright future for Allen.

He has so much potential, and he has now realized how to truly reach that potential, which will take him very far.�

Another mentor is Tony Slate, who had Allen in AVID II and now teaches at Fort Bend Christian Academy. “I’ve never met a student like Allen. I’m so blessed to know him. He is one of the hardest-working students I’ve ever known. He’s overcome so much in his life and has handled each hurdle with grace,� he said. “Allen’s going to do some big things in life, influencing every person he touches.�

Allen finds that AVID — a college readiness system — helps with organization, scheduling and homework for the AP classes required to be part of AVID. “College students come in and help you with the classes,

and they tell you what they learn. Guest speakers motivate us, tell us the right path to go on.� AVID also offers help with college financial aid, SAT practice tests and one college trip per year.

Allen hopes to attend the University of Georgia in Athens. The atmosphere just feels like home. “I want to go somewhere I haven’t

“After waiting months to go back to school, I did something I had never done before: I made an A. And not just one: straight A’s.� been. I’ve already experienced Texas, I’ve experienced Louisiana. I want go somewhere different so I can learn how to be on my own and become myself without anyone’s help,� he said. “I think I’m ready for college. I’m not a kid any more.�

He will be the first in his family to go beyond high school.

Allen often thinks about where he would be if he hadn’t left New Orleans. “Had the storm not come, I still would have been in school but I wouldn’t have taken it seriously.

The people that were kids when we were coming up before we moved, they all took the wrong path. I would have felt peer pressure to have to have gone along with that.�

Allen is grateful to everyone who helped him get to where he is today. His message to his three younger siblings about finding it within themselves to pursue college and a career is, “Be yourself, don’t forget your roots. Think about what it takes to get where you want. Think about how bad you want and how good it will feel to have it.�

Although the stop sign has meaning to Allen, he’s clearly put himself on the road to success — on a wide-open path full of green lights. l

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Sponsored by

ç By Chris Godbold

The Old 300

Portraits of Old 300 members Jane Long (top left) and Adam Stafford (above). v (top right) The 1936 historical marker for Wyly Martin near his grave in the Dyer-Myers Cemetery in Richmond. v (right) The palmetto leaf hat belonged to C.C. Dyer.

T

he Old 300 are the first settlers brought to Texas under Stephen F. Austin’s contract to bring families to the Mexican province. The contract was initially negotiated by Stephen’s father Moses, and granted the Austins permission to bring 300 families to Texas. The number of men and women who were granted land actually comes to 297. These early pioneers included both men and women; single and married; young and old. Some of the Old 300 acquired land as part of business ventures while many others applied for land where they could live and raise their families.

When applying for land, prospective settlers were asked for what purpose they wanted it. Those who wanted to farm received a labor (about 177 acres) of land, while those who were stock raisers received a sitio or league (about 4428 acres) of land. Those who were both stock raisers and farmers received a sitio and a labor of land. Consequently, most applicants responded that they were both stock raisers and farmers. In addition, families were preferred,so single men could only receive a fourth of the above totals. Other colonization rules prohibited the slave trade and required settlers to live on or cultivate their property within two years or risk repossession of the property. Catholicism was the preferred religion, though this was only loosely enforced.

Some of the Old 300 didn’t stay very long and others never came at all. However, many settlers established generationslong residence in Texas. Austin’s Colony stretched from the Gulf Coast to present day Grimes, Brazos, Burleson, Lee and

Bastrop counties, and east to west from present day Harris County to portions of Lavaca and Jackson counties. The Old 300 lived throughout this area. About 55 of the Old 300 received grants in what would become Fort Bend County.

Other members of the group settled in Fort Bend County after receiving their initial grant(s) elsewhere.

Many of the Old 300 chose land along bodies of water. In Fort Bend County, the Brazos River was popular as was the San Bernard River and Oyster Creek. Other Old 300 pioneers settled on the Colorado River, San Jacinto River, Buffalo Bayou and along several other bayous and creeks.

Wherever they settled, each colonist came to Texas for their own reasons. Some traveled here to get rich; some to escape their past, and still others chose to migrate to Texas to make a new life for themselves and their families. Despite their diverse origins, most of the Old 300 developed shared Texas ties and became the nucleus of the budding Lone Star State.

Bibliography: Spellman, Paul. Old 300: Gone to Texas.

San Bernardino, CA: by the author, 2014.

Ernest Wallace, David M. Vigness and George B. Ward. Documents of Texas History, 2d ed. Austin: Texas State Historical Association, 2002.l

Historical Photos andfacts historical and photos facts courtesy of the Fort Bend County Museum Association, Richmond, TX Association Museum Collection and the Texas State Historical 144

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