Scan with your Smart Phone or Tablet for more details.
Introducing SPHIER Emergency Room. We provide communities with the highest quality emergency care:
• Treatment for everything from life threatening to minor problems • Board Certified/Board Eligible Emergency Physicians • On-site laboratory • Ultra-sound • CT scan • X-ray
Riverstone
Quail Valley Lake Olympia Lake Olym
pia Pkwy
Ft. Bend Toll Rd
6
1092/ Mu rphy
SPHIER Emergency Room
We are currently serving the community of Katy, Texas. Please look for our new location at Sienna Plantation – Spring of 2013. At Sphier Emergency Room, we’ve designed our facilities with the patient in mind, and introduced a whole new SPHIER of Emergency Care.
Oilfield
Sienna Pkwy
8721 Highway 6 Missouri City, Tx 77459
6
Sienna
ALWAYS OPEN www.sphier.com | 8721 Hwy 6, Missouri City, Tx 77459 | 832-321-1000 | info@sphier.com © 2012 Sphier Emergency Room. All rights reserved.
SOME OF THE BEST MEDICAL ADVICE YOU’LL EVER RECEIVE IS HOW TO GET HERE.
When it comes to hospitals in Sugar Land, you have lots of choices. But only one hospital carries the St. Luke’s name. At St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital, you’ll find a commitment to excellence plus many of the services you may need, delivered with our own special brand of caring called Faithful, Loving Care®. Discover what makes us different. We’re here for you.
StLukesSugarLand.com
Highway 59 one block north of Highway 6 at Lake Pointe Parkway 1317 Lake Pointe Parkway, Sugar Land, TX 77478 | 281-637-7000
generated at BeQRious.com
Katrina Katsarelis | EDITOR’S NOTE
Confessions of a Sugar Land Magazine FUNatic Finding joy in the job while striving for excellence and innovation I confess I’m one of those people who jumps out of bed each morning, excited to go to work. My job is not always easy, but it is always interesting, fun, and entertaining. Before moving here and starting Sugar Land Magazine, I worked in the marketing departments of some of Silicon Valley’s high-tech companies. Although I worked for some great companies and met many talented people, I rarely got a chance to stretch my creative wings and find the joy in my job. Marketing semiconductors or speech recognition software just wasn’t very exciting or creative to me, no matter how I tried to spin it. At Sugar Land Magazine, however, I get the pleasure of working with adorable kids, amazing families, inspirational people, community leaders, crazy co-workers, and sometimes even an occasional celebrity. Best of all, Our production team every day is different during a recent “thinking and I can always find cap” brainstorming session a way to add a smidge of fun into everything we do. Case in point: Our wild and crazy brainstorming sessions. This is where we come up with every possible Sugar Land idea we can for the upcoming issue. (Okay, I admit the photo is a wee bit staged. We don’t brainstorm with margaritas, but we really do bring our dogs to work sometimes.) Another way we make our workplace fun is by looking for any reason to dress up, accessorize, or have a contest. Halloween, Crazy Christmas Sweater Day, Royal Wedding Princess Day--you get the picture. (If you follow us on Facebook, you’ve seen the wacky photos posted on our FB page.) Even though we like to have fun, we still maintain a ‘work hard, play hard’ atmosphere and everyone at Sugar Land Magazine strives to take their job to the next level through excellence and innovation. From up-and-coming design techniques, to Sugar Land photo pictorials, to heartfelt stories of triumph, our goal is to produce a superior publication that’s like no other. Keeping Sugar Land Magazine free to our community is important to us as well, and is only possible because of the local advertisers who have financially supported our dream for the past seven years. We hope our passion and dedication for this community is evident throughout the pages of the magazine. We genuinely want you to be as proud of your hometown magazine as we are. Do something fun today!
Katrina Katsarelis Editor-in-Chief & Publisher editor@sugarlandmagazine.com
P.S. If you have a great story idea, we would love to hear from you. Email editor@sugarlandmagazine.com and tell us!
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 9
BACK PAIN? NECK PAIN? The Spine Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is the comprehensive, coordinated option for you in Fort Bend County. For back and neck pain, there’s only one premier choice — Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Spine Center. Whether you’ve had pain for just a few days treat your condition in a convenient location, with access to premier spine specialists and a complete range of treatment options. Getting started is easy. We will guide you through a customized treatment plan, with expedited access to world-class neurologists, neurosurgeons, orthopedic spine surgeons and interventional pain specialists. Plus, physical therapy, occupational/hand therapy, and the most advanced imaging and surgical technologies in the world are available on-site.
Stop enduring pain. Call or email today and begin your personal treatment plan . 281-313-BACK (2225) or SpineCenter@tmhs.org.
16655 Southwest Freeway • Sugar Land, Texas 77479 281-313-BACK (2225) • MethodistSugarLand.com
Connect with us.
STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS
Celebrating Families in Fort Bend County
Katrina Katsarelis
Matt Katsarelis
Bonnie Cerny
Publisher/Editor-In-Chief Creative Director
Publisher
Sales Director
Valarie Brown
Julie Dold
Kirsten Ham
Accounting/ HR Manager
Editorial Coordinator
Editorial Coordinator
Liz Rector
Lindsey Fojtik
Jason Lehecka
Editorial Coordinator
Lead Graphic Designer
Staff Photographer
Daneen Rivera
Morgan Gomez
Taryn Arbeely
Production Supervisor
Accounting/ HR Coordinator
Sales Representative
Roxy Ventura
Melissa Evans
Tammi Rogers
Customer Service Representative
Customer Service Representative
Distribution Representative
AWARDS Association of Free Communit y Papers (AFCP) 2011 Newspapers Fighting Cancer Award “Andrew E. Shapiro Foundation,” Best Ad Copy Writing, Single Ad – Color Tex as Communit y Newspapers Association (TCNA) 20 06 -2011 Winners of dozens of TCNA Awards including, General Excellence, Best Community Service, Best Feature Story, Best Original News Story, Best Original News Headline, Best Advertising Headline, Best Original Ad, Best Original Ad Color on Other Stock, Best Banner (Cover), Best Media Kit, Best Feature Photo Full Color,Best Website, Best Automotive Ad, Best Self Promotion, and more. Better Business Bureau Houston Winner of Distinction 2008 and 2009, Pinnacle Award -2007 Fort Bend Chamber Business Showcase Expo, Best Presentation - 2007 TO ADVERTISE Call 281-579-7944 for advertising rates, information, and closing dates. Email us at sales@sugarlandmagazine.com or visit SugarLandMagazine.com. SUGARLANDMAGAZINE.COM Find thousands more resources, articles, and information online at SugarLandMagazine.com. TO SUBSCRIBE A subscription costs $16 annually for four quarterly issues. Call 281-579-7944. PHOTO & ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS We enjoy publishing Fort Bend-related items and photos from the community. Please do not send material protected by copyright. Email items to editor@sugarlandmagazine.com. Contact us Our publishing headquarters for Sugar Land Magazine, Katy Magazine, and Cy-Fair Magazine is located at 605A Park Grove Dr., Katy, TX 77450. Email editor@sugarlandmagazine.com or call 281-579-7944.
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jeannine Benoit, Taryn Burnett , Julie Dold, Tonya Ellis, Kirsten Ham, Jennifer Heath, Katrina Katsarelis, Erica Lynn Martinez, Tabitha Paul, Crystal Rawls, Megan Richards, Andrew Soares, Phillip Sulak
Megan Richards
Tonya Ellis
Jennifer Heath
Office Assistant
Contributing Writer
Contributing Writer
Contributing Photographers Jason Lehecka , Megan Rogers
Crystal Rawls Contributing Writer
© 2013 Sugar Land Magazine™ All Rights Reserved. No part of our online or printed magazine may be scanned or reproduced. Sugar Land Magazine has an 80,000 printed circulation.
The Community & Family Magazine for Sugar Land, Texas
SLM
Contents
Sugar Land Magazine™ | WINTER 2013
Cutest Kids Cover Contest The 2013 Winners & Finalists Sugar Land’s Cutest Kids Cover Contest winner Alisa Glancy
Cutest Kids Cover Contest
General
Sugar Land’s Cutest Kids Cover Contest winner Addisyn Stevenson
46 Inspirations
Cutest Kids Cover Contest
Education
47 Special Section Healthy Fort Bend Kids 13 Ways to Stay Healthy in 2013 • 26 Learn the basics to keeping your kids healthy this year
Red Carpet • 84
Ask the Doctor •30 Your questions answered by Fort Bend area experts
University of Houston Alumni Club • 58 Group strives to connect, promote, and support Disney Crusing • 62 Disney magic close to home Wide Open Spaces • 68 Tips for beautifully filling a spacious home Birthday Fun Guide • 82 Start planning the ultimate party Red Carpet • 84 Scenes from the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance’s Celebration Ball
Everyday Heroes • 88 Victim to Victory • 78 Tabitha Paul hopes to encourage abused women Everyday Heroes • 88 Local men and women help make a difference in the lives of others
Preschool Detective • 100
Tough Talks • 32 Finding the best way to talk to teens about alcohol, drugs, and sex
How to be a Preschool Detective • 100 Find the perfect preschool for you and your child
50 Fun Healthy Activities • 34 Keeping kids moving and healthy in Fort Bend
Velasquez Elementary • 104 Wildcats are raising the bar and defining their expectations School Scoop • 106 News from Fort Bend area schools
Pediatric Dentistry • 40 Fort Bend pediatric dentists offer tips for kids’ dental care Health Bulletins • 44 News from Fort Bend’s medical community
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 13
Born prematurely, the Questell triplets received constant care at the Newborn Center until they were strong and healthy enough to breathe on their own.
More than 2,500 infants are cared for each year at Texas Children’s Newborn Center, making us one of the most active neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) in the nation. That means no matter how complex a baby’s condition might be, our neonatal and pediatric specialists have the experience necessary to treat each patient. Research shows that babies treated in hospitals with a highly experienced staff have better outcomes. And better outcomes mean healthier lives, right from the beginning. To find out more about how we’re contributing to the health and wellness of children’s lives through neonatal care, visit texaschildrens.org/newborncenter.
© 2013 Texas Children’s Hospital. All rights reserved. TCNC036_121812
Right from the beginning
Sugar Land Magazine™ | WINTER 2013
Fort Bend People
66
54
Contents SLM
In Every Issue Editor’s Note • 9 Staff • 11 Calendar • 20
Survivor Addison Marshall
Ribbon Cuttings
Stephanie Jaye Evans • 54 Sugar Land author channels local inspiration Addison Marshall • 66 Catching up with local leukemia survivor
Author Stephanie Jaye Evans
94
56 Ribbon Cuttings • 56 Scouting News • 96 Notes and News • 97 Biz Chat • 108 Advertiser Index • 110
Where to find
Sugar Land Magazine
Seen in Sugar Land Magazine - Capturing Various Community Events
See page 111 for all of the area establishments that carry Sugar Land Magazine.
Pictorials Sugar Land Sweeties • 16
Wedding spotlight • 60
Cute Pets • 76
Sweet Deals • 113
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 15
Camilla
Photo by L&L Photo graphy
Carlo
Brylee
Levon phy e Photogra
Ada
pon a Lifetim
Collin & Conner
nce U Photo by O
Photo by
Marc Shar p
Duncan
Emma
Shane
Justin, Sophia, & Byron
Photo by Picture Peo
ple
Brayden
Kiara
Addison & Aiden
Ariz
We’re on the lookout for more Sugar Land sweeties for our upcoming issue! Send your best shots to editor@sugarlandmagazine.com. Please do not send photography protected by copyright.
Ask These 10 Questions To Make Sure Your Dentist Stacks Up 1
6
2 7 3
8 4 9 5 10
Tim Cashion, DDS
Teresa Cody, DDS
mydentist@windstream.net A $25.00 flat fee for an x-ray & consultation A $74.00 value Low cost way to find out what’s wrong (Does not include cleaning)
Formerly Cashion & Cody Family Dentistry and Orthodontics
17003 SW Freeway, Suite 100, Sugar Land, TX 77479
www.candcdental.com www.candcortho.com
Call us now! 281-815-4193
18 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Calendar Aubrey West enjoyed dressing up at our Cutest Kids Cover Contest photo shoot
SPLASH into Fort Bend Events and happenings around the area
20 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 21
Ella
For more up-to-date Sugar Land events, visit SugarLandMagazine.com.
22 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
BEYOND MANAGEMENT AT PrinCiPAl MAnAgeMenT grouP of HousTon, firstclass community management services are just the beginning. We offer lifestyle products and services, unparalleled in the industry, designed to improve your life. • Expert 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year maintenance services • Discounts and savings on the products and services you use every day • Personal concierge services to save you time • Family-friendly programs promoting health, safety, and “green” living
11000 Corporate Centre Dr., #150 | Houston, Texas 77041 (713) 329-7175 | www.pmghouston.com
Delivering unsurpassed management andPrincipal lifestyleManagement services to communities worldwide. Group of Houston
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 23
24 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
SUGAR LAND MAGAZINE’S SPECIAL ISSUE DEDICATED TO HELPING FORT BEND FAMILIES STAY HEALTHY
Healthy Kids INSIDE THIS SECTION
13 Ways to Stay Healthy in 2013
Tips to keep your Sugar Land child healthy, page 26
TE
Dean
R
W
ST KI
Tips and tricks for talking to your teen, page 32
DS
CU
Tough Talks
INNE
50 Healthy Activities for Kids
Help your sweetie find fun and healthy activities in Fort Bend, page 34
Pediatric Dentistry
Fort Bend dentists help your kids smile even brighter, page 40
Ask the Doctor, 30 Health Bulletins, 44
Dean Marino likes being healthy because it helps him run faster
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 25
Healthy Kids Daya stays healthy by riding her bike and eating lots of carrots
Ways to Stay Healthy in Tips to make sure your child has a great start this year Written by Julie Dold
26 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
There’s more to keeping your Fort Bend sweetie healthy than covering their mouth when they cough. Keeping children physically, emotionally, and spiritually healthy are all ways to help shape them into strong adults. Sugar Land Magazine has come up with 13 great tips to help your sweetie stay healthy this year. One of the best ways to ensure your child follows these tips is by setting an example yourself. Practicing what you preach is always best.
Healthy Eating
Eating right is one of the most obvious things when it comes to staying healthy, however, when parents are running children from soccer practice to ballet, it can almost seem impossible to eat correctly. One of the best ways to encourage healthy eating is by bringing kids along to the grocery store to pick out dinner and then have them help with the cooking process. Children are much more likely to eat something if they helped prepare it. Teaching kids about the food pyramid and the importance of each food group is also very important and helpful. Make sure your child drinks plenty of water as well. “Limit high calorie, high sugar drinks. Encourage your child to drink water, low fat milk, and eat fruits,” says Director of Nursing Rochelle Chamberlain, RN, MSN of SPHIER Emergency Room.
Cleanliness
Maintaining good hygiene is important to staying healthy. Teaching children the importance of hand washing, teeth brushing, and bathing is best maintained when taught at a young age. Children do not always realize just how many germs they pick up throughout the day. Always be sure to tell children to wash their hands after using the restroom, petting animals, and before eating. Also, if you ask your child to bathe daily so it washes all the germs off, you better be doing so as well. A good role model is key to a successful child.
Exercise & Activity
An active lifestyle is encouraged at any age. Enrolling in a Mommy and Me class is a great way to bond with your child and show them that exercise is important to you, which in turn will help them grow to be more active. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services, children should exercise or be active at least sixty minutes per day. Limiting TV and promoting fun outdoor activities is a great way to get kids up and moving. “Exercise that is fun is also important, particularly for younger children, exercise that incorporates play!” claims Awakened Yoga Studio owner Grace Kubecka.
Emotional Health
As adults, we may not think kids have emotional problems, but in reality dealing with school, friends, and body image are all hard issues to handle. Staying emotionally healthy is extremely important when growing up. Look out for signs of depression, low self-esteem, and bullying, especially in children 12 and up. Be positive, encouraging, and listen if your child tells you something is wrong. Never write them off just because they are young. Spending time together is a great way to help kids stay positive. The more time you spend together, the more likely you are to notice if something is wrong. If you notice any emotional issues in your child, encourage them to talk to a school counselor, pediatric psychiatrist, or psychologist.
Lifelong Learning
From reading a book to teaching what sounds a dog makes, parents are kids’ first teachers. Education is all around you, so look for everyday opportunities to teach your children. “If we go beyond helping children to master basic academic skills, we can support their development as happy, confident, well-rounded children,” Lisa Cameron owner of Primrose School of Sugar Land and Primrose School at Waterside Estates says. Be sure to review children’s homework and back up the school with what they need from you for your child to be successful. By teaming up with their school, children can really get the education they need and deserve.
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 27
Children should visit the doctor at least seven times for well-child checkups between the ages of 1 and 4
Well-Child Checkups & Vaccines
Vaccinating your child is one of the best ways to help protect them against serious illnesses. Polio and chicken pox were once considered major issues until vaccines were created. “Getting vaccines at an early age protects children when they are in environments such as daycares and schools where germs and diseases can easily spread,” shares Chamberlain. To help prevent serious illnesses and ensure your child is healthy, be sure to take them for all their shots and well-child visits. When you visit your pediatrician be sure to bring along a list of questions so you can ensure your child is as healthy as can be.
Happy Time
Spending quality family time together is extremely important in shaping a child in a healthy way. If they see how important it is to their parents to make time for them now, they will be encouraged to do the same. Children can help establish family rules, be part of family meetings, and plan outings together. Also, eating dinner together and asking open ended questions is a really good way to show your child that you care. “We make it a point to eat dinner and pray together every night as a family,” says Cutest Kids Cover Winner Addisyn’s mom, Amber Stevenson.
and the TV Turn off your child to e g encoura 60 minutes of ast get at le ctivity a day ra outdoo
Good Night’s Sleep
Getting a good night’s sleep is important at any age, but especially for a growing child. The National Sleep Foundation recommends newborns receive 12–18 hours, infants 14–15 hours, toddlers 12–14 hours, preschoolers 11–13 hours, school-age children 10–11 hours, and teens 8.5-9 hours. If a child loses out on sleep, they will be tired and cranky throughout the day and not able to focus as easily on daily tasks. By establishing regular bedtimes and following standard bedtime routines, children can count on consistency. Children need sleep to help their bodies cope, but also to keep their brains sharp and alert.
Musical Importance
Music can be influential in a child’s life from the beginning. When parents sing to their children it helps them develop the fundamentals of speech, rhythm, and phonemic awareness. If your child is at least 3 years old, enrolling them
28 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Toddlers and pre schoole need at rs least 11 hou sleep pe rs of r night
in music lessons will benefit them. “Second-grade students with four months of piano keyboard and math software training scored higher on proportional math and fractions tests than students learning with just the math software,” says Colony Music Studio owner, Swee Leng Rapatz.
Socialization Skills
You can begin teaching vital socilization skills the moment children are born. Mothers (and fathers) are encouraged to make eye contact with newborns during feedings, and hopefully they will maintain that lesson throughout life. Encourage children to make friends at school, during play groups, or at any family get togethers. “It’s important for children to socialize with other children because it teaches them how to share and care,” says mother of three, Shumelle Taylor. “By socializing with adults, your child’s vocabulary increases, their processing skills improve, and they learn how to trust and respect adults.” You can practice socialization skills with your children at home by role-playing together. Also, encourage them to shake hands when they meet someone new and to not be shy about it. Teaching good socialization skills will help children be more confident than their peers who haven’t yet developed these skills.
lucky as they are helps them to be thankful for all they have. Jill Davis Duban, Director of Common Threads at LCISD, is constantly amazed at what an impact volunteerism has on kids. “They [student volunteers] always tell me how much fun they have and how much it opens their eyes to what the needs are with their own schools,” shares Duban. “I train the kids to show respect and grace to each of our clients as they help them with clothes, school supplies, shoes, and backpacks.” Whether it’s helping mow a neighbor’s lawn or volunteering at a local shelter, kids can help make a difference and in return are helping themselves.
Teeth b rushing and flossing should st art as soon as your child’s fi rst baby tooth co mes in
Healthy Teeth
Teeth brushing and flossing should start as soon as your child’s first baby tooth comes in, as well as scheduling that first dental visit. “We encourage all parents to share with your child about their first dental visit,” says Gretchen M. Jetton, DDS Dentistry for Children. “Let them know that their first encounter is sure to be fun and exciting.” According to Dr. Jetton there are four main reasons why children should maintain healthy teeth; it allows proper chewing, aids in normal speech development, provides space for future adult teeth, and it allows the muscles and the jaw bone to develop correctly. It’s vital to your child’s health to schedule those six month visits.
Giving Back & Volunteering
Helping others is a great way to boost self-esteem and it really helps kids put their lives into perspective. Recognizing that others are not as
A Solid Spiritual Life
Children thrive when they’re connected to something bigger than themselves. Be sure to set aside regular time for church, prayer, and scripture. Also, make sure children are aware of the family’s morals and values. “Our children grow physically, emotionally, mentally, and yes, spiritually, over their childhood years,” says Julie Crocker, Director of Children’s Discipleship at Sugar Creek Baptist Church. “Taking time to focus on the growth of spiritual health, like any other area, allows a child to develop a healthy perspective on the world around them.” SLM JULIE DOLD enjoys being on the editorial team at Sugar Land Magazine and is going to make sure she incorporates these healthy tips into the life of her new baby, Emery.
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 29
HEALTHY FAMILIES
Your family’s medical questions answered by Fort Bend area experts Bleeding Gums
My child’s gums bleed when they brush. What does this mean?
Plaque that is not properly removed can lead to gum irritation, resulting in bleeding during the time of brushing. This condition is called gingivitis, which is the first stage of gum disease and is reversible with proper oral hygiene. It is recommended that parents supervise their child when daily oral hygiene is performed. The American Dental Association strongly suggests that all individuals brush twice daily, floss between all teeth daily, maintain a balanced diet, and schedule regular dental visits to ensure a lifetime of healthy gums and teeth. - Dr. Gretchen Jetton, dentist at Jetton Dentistry for Children
If you have a question for our panel of experts for ASK THE DOCTOR, email editor@ sugarlandmagazine.com
Insect Allergies
What is the best way to treat insect bites and how do I know if my child is allergic?
Signs and symptoms of an insect bite result from the injection of venom or other substances into your skin. The severity of the reaction depends on your sensitivity to the insect venom or substance, and whether you’ve been stung or bitten more than once. Most reactions to insect bites are mild with some itching or a stinging sensation with mild swelling. A delayed reaction may cause fever, hives, painful joints, and swollen glands. Signs and symptoms of a severe reaction include nausea, facial swelling, difficulty breathing, abdominal pain, and low blood pressure. Try applying a cold compress to ease pain and swelling or apply a topical hydrocortisone ointment. - Dr. Vikas Kancherla, medical doctor at Allergy & Asthma Associates
Reducing the Grind
How can I stop grinding my teeth at night?
Many people grind their teeth simply from variations of stress and anxiety, which most commonly occurs during sleep But, it is even more likely that grinding can actually occur from an abnormal bite or from missing or crooked teeth that have allowed your bite to collapse over time and place stress on individual teeth and your jaw joints. Grinding can also be an acute symptom of recent dental work or trauma where the joint can be inflamed, or if a new dental restoration is not fitting correctly and may need some minor adjusting. A complete evaluation by your dentist can allow you to be fitted for a night guard to protect your teeth from grinding during sleep, or even to consider orthodontic treatment to re-establish a more functional bite that will naturally protect your bite and reduce the potential of long term deterioration of your teeth. Additional ideas to help reduce anxiety-related grinding are to cut back on caffeine, don’t drink extensive amounts of alcohol prior to sleep, and cut down on gum chewing as it can wear down your joints. - Dr. Dwight Peccora, dentist at Fort Bend Dental Associates
Special thanks to our panel of Fort Bend, health and medical experts: Dr. Gretchen Jetton, Dr. Vikas Kancherla, and Dr. Dwight Pecorra. To find out how to become part of our medical panel, email editor@sugarlandmagazine.com.
30 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
HEALTHY FAMILIES
Special thanks to Janice and her daughter Marissa Hopkins for participating in Sugar Land Magazine’s “tough talks” photo shoot.
How to navigate through tricky topics like alcohol, drugs, and sex
Fort Bend parents and counselors discuss the best ways to talk to teens about difficult issues Written by Katrina Katsarelis and Andrew Soares
When 16-year-old Tricia* heard her mom say “we need to talk about sex,” she felt sick to her stomach. Hearing her mom utter the word ‘sex’ was bad enough. Discussing the subject in detail was not going to happen. Tricia told her mom she had several homework assignments to finish and quickly retreated to her room. *Names have been changed to protect subject’s identity
32 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Talking to teenagers about uncomfortable topics such as sex, alcohol, and drugs is never easy, but there are things parents can do to help open a dialogue, and keep it open. Experts say these talks should not be just one-time events, but a series of open discussions where both parents and teens are allowed to express their opinions, values, and insights. One of the best ways to get your teen talking is to ask their opinion on a topic and then listen intently. But a surefire way to get them to freeze up is to bring up an embarrassing topic, and then proceed to lecture them in a one-way rant, not allowing them to have input or an opinion on the subject. “It is extremely important to maintain honesty and be open when talking to your child about these things and the consequences that come along with them,” says Janice Hopkins, a Sugar Land mom whose daughter attends Dulles High School.
Getting Teens Talking
Many parents use movies, song lyrics, or real life examples to get their teens talking. While watching a movie together that involves cocaine use, for example, a parent may want to ask the teen what they thought about that character and his drug use. One parent used a movie’s sex scene (that came on unexpectedly) to broach the subject of teens having sex with her daughter. When you’re out shopping and see a teen mother, use this as a teaching tool to discuss how hard it must be to have a baby at a young age.
these issues.” In a nutshell, teens with involved, communicative parents, who’ve established family values and clear, consistent consequences, are better equipped to resist negative temptations. “Adults should be honest and straightforward about these issues. I think the most effective way to talk with kids is to start early at home and to continue talking with them throughout their lives,” says Kipping.
Starting a Dialogue
It’s never too late to begin a dialogue, and many Fort Bend parents say the car is a great starting place for some of these tricky conversations. “What do you think about Lindsey Lohan going to rehab?” Not only is it a relatable topic, but it’s a nonconfrontational and a low key place to have a talk. (You’re not sitting eye-to-eye at a table so it’s less threatening for them.) Another benefit of the car is that teens cannot easily scoot out of the room if the topic gets too embarrassing for them.
One-on-One Time
It’s a good idea to schedule regular outings with your teen over lunch, coffee, or frozen yogurt to visit and encourage open communication. Even though they may not seem to want to spend time with you, the fact is they still yearn for your love and acceptance and need you very much.
Deflating Peer Pressure
We all know a teen’s social group heavily influences their style of clothing, musical tastes, and involvement with drugs, sex, and alcohol. This is why it’s so important for parents to stay connected and keep the lines of communication wide open. Just because they’re getting older and more responsible, you should still know who their friends are, who their friends’ families are, and what your teen is doing. Parents are still vitally important in guiding, informing, and modeling appropriate behavior which helps teens combat peer pressure. Believe it or not, they are still listening to you and watching you.
“I know many smart and wonderful kids fall prey to some of these tough issues.”
Kelle Kipping, a student counselor at Foster High School agrees. “I think the most effective way for kids to say no is to have a strong core value system that is ingrained in them from their families,” she says. “I know many smart and wonderful kids fall prey to some of
- Kelle Kipping, student counselor at Foster High School
Staying Close and Connected
Studies show the more parents talk openly to their kids, the lower the risk of them doing drugs and having illicit sex. It’s also important for parents to remind teens frequently that you are open to discussing any topic—no matter how uncomfortable and embarrassing. Staying in touch with teens through regular family meal times and outings helps maintain a strong connection. When you make time with your teen, take the opportunity to ask them about their week, discuss current events, talk about their problems, and tell them how much you love them. SLM
Tips for Getting Your Teen to Talk... Don’t lecture. Ask their opinions then listen Ask open-ended questions Talk to them in a car or at an off-site location
Use scenes in movies and TV to help start a dialogue Know their friends and your teen’s whereabouts Remind them they can talk to you anytime about anything
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 33
HEALTHY FAMILIES Kids will love learning at Iron Cross Gymnastics
#
1
Sign your sweetie up for a basketball lesson at Upward Basketball
#
9
Fun Activies for Kids & Families
Help your kids stay healthy and active this winter season Written by Jennifer Heath
Don’t forget to tell them Sugar Land Magazine sent you
#
#
11
13
Photo courtesy of Arabella Hawkins
Kids will love learning how to golf at the Housonian Golf & Country Club
34 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Your little girl will love dressing in tutus and ballet slippers
1 2
Let your sweetie flip, jump, and bounce out their energy at Iron Cross Gymnastics. 281-342-4766
3 4 5
Tiger-Rock Martial Arts is the perfect place for your kiddo to kick away. 281-491-4949
6 7
Help strengthen your little one’s mind, body, and social skills at The Little Gym. 281-277-5470
8 9 10 11 12
Sugar Land Little League is the perfect place for your little guy to meet other baseball enthusiasts
Kids will have a great time developing their motor skills, sports skills, fitness, and coordination skills at Great Play. 281-277-0475
Awakened Yoga will help awaken your child’s inner strength. 281-491-0221 Ice skating at Sugar Land Ice and Sports Center is a fun and unique way to help your child stay strong and healthy. 281-265-7465
Contact the Sugar Land Parks and Recreational department and volunteer your family to help at a local charity event. 281-275-2329
#
15
Tennis is a great sport for children of all ages
Fort Bend Family YMCA is the perfect place for the whole family to enjoy active playtime. 281-499-9622 Boys and girls will love dribbling or cheering at Sugar Creek Baptist’s Upward Basketball and Cheerleading. 281-274-7441 Enjoy a family game of disc golf at Imperial Park. 281-275-2885 If your sweetie is at least 5 years old let them learn to golf at Houstonian Golf & Country Club. 281-340-7280
#
17
Your dog will love running around with your kiddo at Pawm Springs Dog Park
Your kiddo will love working out their arms while practicing archery at City of Sugar Land – Imperial Park Recreation Center. 281-275-2885
13
Get in tip top shape with dance classes at Laeral Dance Academy and Performing Arts Center. 281-969-7054
14
Bring out the inner fish in your child by jumping into a class at the Houston Swim Club in Sugar Land. 281-313-7946
15 16
Batter up! Let your sweetie hit, catch, and throw at Sugar Land Little League. 281-242-0709 Dribble away at First Colony Youth Basketball Association. board@fcyba.com
#
22
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 35
36 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
17 18 19 20
Get your sweetie involved with other tennis fans at Fort Bend Tennis Services. 281-980-4219
21 22 23 24
Step, plié, and tap into fun at the Fort Bend Academy of Arts and Dance. 281-403-3200
25
Select from a variety of classes including music, art, and sports at Gymboree Play and Learn. 281-208-4302
26 27
Your little one can stretch their legs on a family hike through Brazos Bend State Park. 979-553-5102
28 29
Keep your sweetie active at Victory Sports. 281-240-2437
30 31 32
Break out the pom-poms and enroll your sweetie at United Cheer. 281-302-5321
Blue Tiger Martial Arts teaches children of all ages and skill levels. 281-239-6401 Let the older kids enjoy a day at the BMX track at Lost Creek Park. 281-275-2885 Your sweetie will have fun climbing and running around at Sugar Creek Baptist’s Playscape. 281-242-2858
Get the kids and the family dog and take a run at Pawm Springs Dog Park. 281-275-2885 Experience a wide variety of curriculum at the Sugar Land Dance Center. 281-491-7530 Your sweetie will go crazy with excitement when you sign them up for equestrian lessons at Sienna Stables. 281-778-7433
Take a trip to your local HEB and have your sweetie pick out their favorite healthy treat. 281-494-3690
Put on the knee pads and helmet and take a bike ride through Sugar Land Memorial Park. 281-2752885
Tumble, laugh, and learn at Sugar Land Gymnastics. 281-240-0999 Fitness and fun make a great mix at the Martial Arts Fitness Academy. 281-969-8644
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 37
33
Get your little one moving at the Wiggles and Tickles music class at City of Sugar Land – Imperial Park Recreation Center. 281-275-2885
34
Hockey is a great game and workout for girls and boys at Sugar Land Ice and Sports Center. 281-265-7465
35 36
Hit a home run at Sugar Land Girls Softball Association. 281-494-1085
37 38 39
Let your sweetie have some crazy fun at Stomping Grounds Playland. 281-313-3800
40
Bounce off the walls, literally, at the trampoline clad Sky Zone Houston. 713-292-5000
Soccer is not only fun, but a great way for your sweetie to stay active
Have your sweetie learn the meaning of TEAM by participating in Eclipse Soccer Club. 281-261-5600
Get your sweetie outdoors and fly a kite at Oyster Creek Park. 281-275-2885 New Territory kids will love bumping, setting, and spiking on a recreational volleyball team. 281-565-0616
#
36
38 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
41 42 43 44
Create live art with your friends at BSG Paintball. 281-682-9356
45 46 47
Your cutie can twirl or tumble at Wilson’s Dance and Tumbling. 281-344-1700
48
Dust off those awesome bowling shoes and head to AMF Stafford Bowling Lanes for a family night out. 281-491-2856
49 50
#
Play a Star Wars themed game of tag at LaserZone USA. 281-277-2900
39
Embark on a scavenger hunt at Brazos Bend State Park. 979-553-5101 The Stafford Centre provides an opportunity for Sugar Landians to enjoy the arts in their own backyard. 281-208-6900 Sign your daughter up for a recreation volleyball team
Sign your child up for a fun, safe, and convenient sport through i9 Sports. 832-631-7529”
Get the whole family moving by having a family scavenger hunt
Broaden your child’s dance horizons with the addition of some exciting new classes at Dance Du Coeur. 281-565-0005
Your sweeties can learn discipline and self-defense at Lone Star Karate. 281-513-5566 Open year-round and climate controlled, Sea Star Swimming School and Gymnastics is a great way to stay active in cold temperatures. 281-403-7946 JENNIFER HEATH enjoys signing her two boys up for several great activities each year.
#
43
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 39
Healthy families
40 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Once baby teeth grow in, kids should brush their teeth morning and night
Taking Kids to the Dentist Fort Bend area pediatric dentists offer tips on starting and keeping kids on track with good dental care Written by Tonya Ellis
The days of dreading trips to the dentist are over for today’s kids. Increases in pediatric specialists make dental care for little ones just plain fun. Movies, toys, and games, are common additions to a pediatric dental practice, as are toothpastes that come with cool f lavors like bubble gum, chocolate, or cotton candy. “There are times when our patients are crying as they leave the office, but not because they had a bad experience. They just don’t want to leave,” exclaims Dr. Amber Callis of Villalon Callis Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics.
Rise of Pediatric Dentistry General dentists train for four years, but pediatric dentists add on an additional two years of specialty training to learn the best ways to treat developing smiles and make kids comfortable. Dr. Nasha Hunter a pediatric dentist in Sugar Land says pediatric dentistry is on the rise because of changes in our eating habits. “Kids are drinking more juice, and are eating more processed food, which have added sugar,” she explains. “One in four kids between the ages of 3 to 5 have cavities.”
– the cavities are already there,” explains Callis. “Parents usually do not know that they should be flossing every day for their preschooler, and it’s a total shock.” “There are many great reading books, such as The Berenstain Bears book Visit the Dentist, which explains to your child what to expect at their first dental visit,“ says Gretchen M. Jetton, DDS Dentistry for Children.
“There are times when our patients are crying as they leave the office, but not because they had a bad experience. They just don’t want to leave”
Baby Teeth Care
Baby teeth fall out, so some parents think keeping them clean is not a big deal. “Ninety percent of parents say ‘Oh we haven’t started brushing yet,’ at the child’s first dental visit,” says Tepphanie Thach, a pediatric dentist at Little Smiles of Sienna.
Once teeth grow in, kids should brush teeth morning and night. Start - Dr. Amber Callis of Villalon Callis Pediatric Dentistry their flossing as soon as you see teeth poking through, which is around ages 2 or 3. By age 2, fluoride toothpaste can be used to strengthen teeth. Too much fluoride can be harmful, so The First Dental Visit discuss the proper amount with your dentist. Children should visit a dentist when their first tooth comes in, or at least by age 1. Seeing a dentist at an early age is If your child doesn’t like to brush, let him choose the crucial to prevent cavities, says Callis. “When a child comes toothbrush advises Callis. “Make it part of their regular for their first visit at 4 and 5 years old, it’s already too late
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 41
Ella
INNE
R
CU
W
ST KI
DS
routines,” says Callis. “Make it fun by incorporating a funny song or counting game while brushing.” Dentists also recommend children get protective sealants on their teeth when back molars come in to prevent cavities.
TE
Juice and Junk Food = Cavities
Cavities are caused by poor hygiene and eating habits. Fail to treat them in baby teeth, and you’re asking for trouble, agree dentists. “The tooth stays in until you’re 12,” explains Thach. “If your child’s 2, you’ve got 10 more years with a cavity that is going to grow.”
To prevent cavities try and help your ki ds steer clear of sugary food s and drinks
Experts agree that a cavity does not just stay with the one single tooth. As the tooth deteriorates from the cavity it goes into the nerve, which can then create an abscess. If a tooth becomes infected and removed too early a child’s speech and eating can be greatly affected.
Keeping Teeth Healthy
To prevent cavities Jetton recommends keeping your kids away from sugary foods and drinks. “Frequent consumption of sugary snacks and drinks may lead to frequent acid attacks, increasing the risk of tooth decay,” she says. She also encourages parents that have had positive trips to the dentist to inform their children about the experience. Pediatric dentists can start some simple orthodontic procedures as early as age 8 to ensure a beautiful smile, and limit or eliminate time spent in braces. Starting early on dental care helps kids develop good habits that will last a lifetime. That’s something to smile about. SLM
allis Villalon C Dentistry Pediatric odontics and Orth like a re o m ls e fe than a d n u ro playg ce ffi o l denta
Let your child know they are going to the dentist to get their teeth cleaned to be healthy, not as a punishment Role-play visits to the dentists with dolls or toys with younger children Don’t tell your child too many details about the dental visit. Mentioning needles and shots could add to the anxiety level Relax. The pediatric dentist and staff are trained to keep children comfortable and will go over each step in the process
TONYA ELLIS has three children who like getting good reports at their pediatric dentist.
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 43
Healthy Families Healthy families
Health Bulletins Health-related news tidbits for Fort Bend families
Protection against Influenza
Everyone who is at least 6 months of age should get a flu vaccine this season. It’s especially important for people who are at high risk of developing serious complications if they get sick and their caregivers. Flu vaccines are offered in many locations, including doctor’s offices, clinics, health departments, pharmacies, college health centers, as well as by many employers, and even in some schools.
Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital presents “Road Trip to the Orient” Fundraiser
Fort Bend Cares, a charitable foundation, announced that Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital is the presenting sponsor for its February 9 dinner dance fundraiser. Visit memorialhermann.org or call 713-222-CARE.
Dental Visits for Children
Jetton Dentistry for Children believes early dental education is the key to establishing good oral hygiene habits that will lead to a lifetime of healthy smiles. Sparkles the Tooth Fairy and Dizzy the Dental Dragon enjoy delivering fun filled, hands-on dental education programs geared towards preschool through first grade. Call Becky at 281-232-7556.
Methodist Sugar Land’s New Community Resource Directory
Methodist Sugar Land Hospital launched a new community resource directory, designed to provide Fort Bend residents and surrounding areas with information about support groups, charitable organizations, and other providers of important health and human services.
Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women Offers Donor Milk
Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women, one of the nation’s premier facilities for women’s fetal and newborn health, is now offering pasteurized donor breast milk to breastfeeding mothers of healthy newborns who need supplementation during the important early days of the baby’s life.
New Hybrid Operating Room is the First in the Nation
Methodist Sugar Land Hospital has completed construction on a new hybrid operating room that is the first of its kind in the nation. The hybrid OR incorporates advanced technologies with traditional surgery capabilities to offer patients a new range of diagnostic and treatment procedures that can streamline care, reduce recovery time, and complications.
Got health news? Email us at editor@sugarlandmagazine.com 44 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Alisa Glancy stays healthy by riding bikes with her family
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 45
Sugar Land Magazine reviewed hundreds of photo entries for our 2013 contest and selected 12 Winners who were invited to attend our Cutest Kids photo shoot. The Winners are featured on various pages throughout this issue.
Alisa Glancy
With big blue eyes, adorable blonde hair, and a sweet disposition it’s no wonder why 2-year-old Alisa was chosen as one of our Cutest Kids Cover Winners. Alisa loves dancing, swimming, and coloring at Sienna Montessori School. Her favorite family activity is riding bikes and she enjoys reading Fancy Nancy. She is the younger sister of 5-year-old Arina and the daughter of Zhanna Glancy.
46 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Addisyn Stevenson This Cutest Kids Cover Winner’s funny, outgoing, and caring personality really showed at our photo shoot. Addisyn enjoys cheering, swimming, playing kickball, and dancing. Six-year-old Addisyn is currently attending Simonton Christian Academy where she loves learning about the Bible and math. She is the little sister to 10-year-old Caleb, and the daughter of Dennie and Amber Stevenson.
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 47
CU
Za’Mor Turner
Za’Mor is a model in the making. This 4-year-old enjoys playing football with his family and friends. He is the younger brother of Kendra and Darius. He is the son of Shumelle and Roderic Taylor.
INNE
R
INNE
ST KI
Olivia
W
R
CU
Za’Mor
TE
DS
W
ST KI
DS
TE
Olivia Cope
Six-year-old Olivia’s spunky personality and dreams of being a model really showed at our shoot. Olivia is the younger sister of Zach and Jaxon, and is the daughter of Geoff and Jill Cope.
48 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Aubrey West
With darling strawberry curls and freckles, 5-year-old Aubrey really made an impact on our team. She is very much a girly girl. Aubrey is the younger sister of Calla and Alex and is the daughter of Alison and David West.
CU
R
Dean Marino
ST KI Ella
W
This handsome and outgoing 6-year-old is the son of Tammy and Anthony Marino. Dean can usually be found running around with his older sisters Isabella and Sofie, and younger brother Luca.
R
TE
Dean
INNE
Victor Hernandez
With a sweet personality and charm, Victor, age 3, is the definition of a loveable child according to parents Tiffany and Victor Hernandez. He loves watching Toy Story 3 with his older sister Iliana.
DS
W
ST KI
DS
TE
INNE
INNE
R
CU
CU
W
R
INNE
ST KI
Victor
Aubrey
W
CU
TE
DS
ST KI
DS
TE
Ella Green
Four-year-old Ella’s sparkling eyes and sweet smile made her a great candidate for our cover. Ella enjoys being a big sister to her brother Austin, and is the daughter of Amber and John Green.
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 49
R
CU
Daya Reis
Two-year-old Baylor is one big boy with an adorable smile. He loves chasing his big brother Kellen. His favorite family activity is swimming. He is the son of Stephanie and Ryan Gradisar.
Daya’s big eyes, adorable bob cut, and silly personality helped her stand out at our cover shoot. This active 3-year-old is the big sister of Rohan. She is the daughter of Avina and Bryan Reis.
ST KI
TE
INNE
W
Isabella Payne
At only 3 years old, Isabella loves to go shopping and dreams of one day being a princess. She is the younger sister of Ralynn and Ravae and daughter of Richard and Kriselda Payne.
ST KI
Luca
INNE
R
CU
Isabella
R
W
INNE
DS
TE
Baylor Gradisar
ST KI
Daya
W
INNE
DS
CU
W
R
CU
Baylor
TE
DS
ST KI
DS
TE
Luca Marino
Two-year-old Luca is outgoing, friendly, and has amazing blue eyes. He is the younger brother of Isabella, Sofie, and Dean and is the son of Tammy and Anthony Marino.
50 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 51
Cutest Kids Cover Contest
The Finalists
Congratulations to the following adorable Sugar Land kids who came very close to being named as winners. Thank you for participating and we hope to see you next year!
Alex Hsieh
Anna Isaicu
Avery Hutson
Cason Wilkinson
Christian Pike
Dylan Jones
Emily Harms
Gabriel Li
Grayson Scott
Hailey Lewis
Keilyn Sanford
Photo by Laura Watson Photography
Alaysia Beverly
52 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Photo by Kellianne Barron Photography
Lian Hintz
Lynnea Moore
Ryleigh Kemp
Scout Hohenberger
Zane Van Avery
Preston Sheheane Photo by Picture People
Kennedy Smith
Zoey Hartke
Your child’s educational foundation is crucial for his future success. Kids ‘R’ Kids understands brain development, so added a supplemental program to our award-winning curriculum called the BRAIN WAVES Curriculum to maximize your child’s learning opportunities and development during his formative years.
On behalf of all Kids R Kids locations, we’d like to thank our parents and grandparents for voting Kids ‘R’ Kids the 2012 Consumer Choice Award Winner for Child Care Centers in Greater Houston.
We thank our community for this prestigious recognition!
Ask about our Brain Waves program at any of our 11 Fort Bend locations.
KidsRKidsFortBend.com
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 53
Fort Bend People
After winning the William F. Deeck-Malice Domestic Grant for Unpublished Writers, Stephanie Jaye Evans was finally able to publish her book Faithful Unto Death
Local author’s mystery novel showcases Sugar Land’s scenery
Faithful Unto Death
may be purchased on amazon.com in paperback or Kindle format.
54 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Author Stephanie Jaye Evans’ book channels local inspiration Written by Jeannine Benoit
Sugar Land’s beautiful scenery, upscale communities, and family atmosphere appear to be an ideal location where nothing can go wrong… or so it seems. When Bear, a minister, reluctantly finds himself unofficially engaged in a murder investigation, who knows what will happen next. No need to worry though, this is only the outline for Stephanie Jaye Evans’ first book Faithful Unto Death. Readers are sure to recognize and enjoy reading about local Sugar Land landmarks and roads as the mystery unfolds.
Instinctual Path
Coincidentally, Evans was a minister’s daughter and grew up in a loving home, similar to Bear’s daughter in the book. A Sugar Land native for over 22 years, her passion for writing started early. She received a B.A. from Abilene Christian University where she won literary contests, composed poetry, and did commercial copy writing for radio. “I was always going to write a novel,” says Evans. “I finally started when my life changed.”
A typical day for Evans involves walking her two favorite pugs, Tommy and Mr. Wiggles, and spending time with her family. She spends at least 3 to 4 hours a day writing and has never missed a deadline. Evans credits her husband Richard When Evans isn’t for believing in the book from writing she’s busy the beginning and developing a spending time with spreadsheet system to keep her her pugs Tommy and Mr. Wiggles writing schedule on track. Her sister and brother-in-law were also supportive of her writing efforts.
A Job Well Done
After raising three sons, Evans went back to school and earned a M.L.S. from Rice University. During graduate school, Evans was inspired by her professors to complete the novel as her capstone project and won the 2010 William F. Deeck-Malice Domestic Grant for Unpublished Writers. “This is my Cinderella story,” explains Evans. “I gave a 42-second thank you speech at the awards ceremony at Malice, and was discovered by agent Janet Reid.” The agent was so impressed by what Evans had to say that she helped make her a published author only one year later.
Local Inspiration
interesting stories,” shares Evans. The Sugar Land setting aptly demonstrates that, despite appearances, people are not perfect.
Evans garners inspiration from her family, friends, and the people she meets. “I love to talk to strangers and hear their
Evans has received several accolades for her mystery novel. Faithful Unto Death was selected as a Fresh Pick by Fresh Fiction and featured in the Houston Chronicle’s Ultimate 2012 Summer Booklist. Fort Bend Council for Literacy invited Evans as their author for “Read between the Wines.” Local groups including the Sugar Creek Rotary Club have also recognized Faithful Unto Death. The Texas Library Association even invited her to be on their mystery and thriller panel.
Never Give Up
Evans has already begun writing her second book in the murder mystery series and it is expected to be released in March. She is very passionate about helping other writers achieve similar success by completing and publishing a novel. Her advice for up-and-coming authors is simple, “Stop thinking about it and start writing,” exclaims Evans. “Set a goal and don’t give up.” SLM JEANNINE BENOIT is a medical speech pathologist who loves to read and spend time with her family.
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 55
Welcome There’s no place like Fort Bend
RIBBON CUTTINGS
Sugar Land Magazine extends a warm welcome to the following new businesses in the Fort Bend area! A Plus Chemical Free Cleaning Services, LLC
3 Sugar Creek Center Blvd., Suite 147, Sugar Land | 713-283-3089 | apluscfcs.com
Bombay Pizza Co.
636 Hwy. 6, Suite 100, Sugar Land | 281-242–1131 | bombaypizzaco.com The Spot
16305 Kensington Dr., Suite 270, Sugar Land | 832-500-4099 | thespothangout.com
Imperial Performing Arts
823 Third St., Rosenberg | 281-277-7444 | theimperial.org The Crescent
11353 Sugar Park Ln., Sugar Land | 281-276-2050 | cantexcc.com Fajita Pete’s
741 Hwy. 90A East, Richmond | 832-595-0411 | fajitapetes.com
NEW Fort Bend Businesses! Request a basic web listing or post your job openings on SugarLandMagazine.com. It’s free! Email editor@sugarlandmagazine.com for more info. 56 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
DON’T FORGET
to tell them you saw their ribbon cutting photo in Sugar Land Magazine!
Fort Bend Groups
UH Alumni Association - Fort Bend Alumni Club enjoys hosting happy hours, golf tournaments, and fishing tournaments
Written by Taryn Burnett
University of Houston Alumni Group Helps Locals Stay Connected Sometimes whether you live “inside the loop” or outside can make a difference with staying connected in the Houston area. The University of Houston Alumni Association-Fort Bend Alumni Club is bridging the distance, connecting Cougar alumni from Fort Bend County to their peers and the main campus. Whether you graduated from UH in 1979 or 2009, the club welcomes you to join their group at monthly gatherings and share their Cougar pride throughout the year.
58 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Club Pr Lowrie esident Jo hn UH g hopes to h row elp
Created in the late 1990s, the Fort Bend Club is a close-knit group of about 40 people that strives to connect UH alumni in the county, promote student scholarships for area seniors, and support UH System-Sugar Land programs and activities.
No Boundaries
Current club president John Lowrie served as the club’s vice president for six years and was nominated last year to replace out-going president Patty Godfrey. He notes that though the club is called Fort Bend County, you don’t have to be a Fort Bend County resident to be involved. “Our club has boundaries, but they aren’t really boundaries because we are all on the same university team,” says Lowrie. “We want to help the university grow.” The club is also interested in helping with educational outlets in the community, including serving as legacy participants in the Annual Scholarship Awards Dinner, which was held at the Sugar Land campus in September. “I like to see things happen down in Sugar Land,” claims Lowrie, not only referring to the expanding Sugar Land campus but also to the overall growth that Fort Bend County is experiencing.
Funding Education
Scholarships are a significant part of the club’s existence and the club awards an average of $15,000 a year to graduating high school seniors from Fort Bend County schools. Individual scholarships are typically $1,000 each and the application process includes a short essay on why applicants want to attend UH and why they feel that getting a college degree is significant. Applications are due on March 23 and can be found through the “For Students” section on the Houston Alumni website. To help raise scholarship funds, the club hosts two major events each year, The Cougar Saltwater Open Fishing Tournament and The Bill Yeoman Scholarship Golf Tournament. The fishing tournament also benefits the UH School of Communication Alumni Association and is typically held on the first Saturday in June.
Though raising scholarship funds is a huge part of the club’s purpose, there is still plenty of time for fun. The club is a regular presence at UH football game tailgates, especially for the homecoming game and Tailgate Championship Competition. “The football games are where the action is,” says Lowrie.
Every Third Thursday
Happy Hour Pappasito’s in Sugar Land 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
March 25
The Bill Yeoman Scholarship Golf Tournament Sugar Creek Country Club in Sugar Land
June 9
The golf tournament, held at the Sugar Creek Country Club, helps raise more than 80% of funds for the club and its scholarships. The seventeenth annual event will be on March 25.
Connecting for Fun
Upcoming Events
The Cougar Saltwater Open Fishing Tournament Pelican Rest Marina in Galveston
rk dent Ma Vice Presi omes you to lc e w Cowan ng next outi the club’s
The club’s tailgating team is a five-time winner of the Tailgate Champion award and Tailgate Cook Champion award, and is led by Tailgate Cook Chair Kevin Godfrey. In 2011, Godfrey even had the opportunity to cook for the crew of ESPN’s College GameDay. The club also meets monthly for a happy hour event in Sugar Land. If you are interested in becoming a part of the UH Alumni Association Fort Bend Alumni Club then come to the Pappasito’s in Sugar Land every third Thursday of the month between 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. SLM TARYN BURNETT is a freelance writer and photographer who shares her home with her husband and their two rescue dogs.
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 59
WEDDING SPOTLIGHT
WEDDING COLORS Café and Rustic Orange BRIDESMAIDS Laura Cavender and Crystal Rios
Jason and Krystal Munoz’s wedding was held on November 3. The bride is the daughter of Charles and Marsha Harper. The groom is the son of the Alfie Driver and Elmo Munoz. Krystal is a Registered Dental Assistant at Advanced Dentistry, and Jason is a Financial Advisor for Edward Jones Investments. The couple resides in Sugar Land.
GROOMSMEN Levon Munoz and Julian Munoz FAVORITE MOMENT “Making a dream come true by being married on a tropical island surrounded by our closest friends and family members.” HONEYMOON Italy
Photography by Tropical Pics., Inc.
PHOTOGRAPHER Tropical Pics., Inc. BOUQUET FLOWERS Burnt orange tropical bouquet by Barcelo Bavaro First FIRST DANCE “Good Morning Beautiful” by Brad Paisley WEDDING & RECEPTION LOCATION Barcelo Bavaro Palace Deluxe in Punta Cana TOTAL COST $75,000 Krystal an dad Ch d her arles
The Munoz’s first dance was “Good Morning Beautiful” by Brad Paisley
Sugar Land Magazine will be featuring a local couple’s wedding in each issue. If you would like us to spotlight your Fort Bend wedding, email editor@sugarlandmagazine.com. We will need permission from your photographer.
60 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
SUMMER LEARNING NOW ENROLLING! SUGAR LAND • 281-491-0313 GoddardSchool.com The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc. Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, Inc. program is AdvancED accredited. © Goddard Systems Inc. 2012
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 61
Disney Magic began sailing out of Galveston, Texas in September of 2012. The ship has 11 passenger decks and a crew of 950
Austin Hanson, who inspired Friends for Good to publish the Green Beans and Guacamole cookbook, and local Chef Robert Del Grande
Texas welcomes....
Disney Magic Sugar Land families can now set sail on the happiest voyage on earth--just an hour’s drive from home Written by Katrina Katsarelis
|
Photography Courtesy of Disney Cruise Lines
Ahoy Matey! Disney Cruise Line has officially set sail out of Galveston and will have many sailings in 2013 before the Magic heads back home to Florida for 2014. Disney Magic has 4, 6, 7, and 8-night cruises that sail out of Galveston to various Caribbean destinations including Cozumel, Key West, the Cayman Islands, and more. There is also an 8-night Bahamian cruise, and a 14-night Transatlantic Cruise to Spain, Portugal, and the UK coming this year.
The Disney Magic can accommodate 2,713 passengers
There are plenty of family activities onboard including an outdoor sports deck, several pools, a waterslide, a splash zone, and an arcade
62 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Photo by Juile Soefer
Fort Bend Travel
Pleasant Surprises at Every Turn
When you sail out of Galveston on the Disney Magic, you’ll quickly notice the same world class customer service amenities the company is known for. I was pleasantly and constantly surprised with the ship’s ongoing focus on passenger comfort, fun, and entertainment. From the moment your family walks through the door until you disembark, you can’t help but notice the royal treatment. The moment you step on the ship, an announcer welcomes you by name as the crew cheers. In true Disney form, the crew is well trained in providing a memorable onboard experience that is warm and personal to each guest. The staff- toguest ratio is three guests to every one crew member, so passengers are tended to very well.
Family Friendly Amenities Galore
Parents will love Disney Magic’s staterooms that come with two bathrooms - a wonderful bonus when cruising with children. There is also a divider curtain between the master bed and the kids’ sleeping area to allow parental privacy. I was very impressed with their super savvy germ control techniques; the friendly greeters give each guest a large hand wipe as they enter one of the six eateries onboard. And like the Disney Parks, everything on Magic seemed to be kept impeccably clean. The food was delicious, plentiful, and there was no waiting, Disney cruises are different in that you keep your same servers even as you rotate restaurants.
Disney’s Kids Clubs
There are character appearances, photo opportunities, and a delightful Prince and Princess Dinner where kids dress up on formal dining night.
All of Disney’s Kids Clubs are supervised by trained crew members and offer kids age-appropriate fun, giving moms and dads some together time. Oceaneer Club (3-7 years)
A vibrant, colorful indoor play area with dress up, toys, games, and supervised activities throughout the day.
Oceaneer Lab (8-12 years)
A fun ‘mad-science’ type of learning center full of activities and imaginative children’s events.
Edge (11 -14 years)
An interactive play space replicating the ship’s bridge with TV, video games, crafts, and more.
Vibe (14 -17 years)
A supervised trendy retreat for making friends, watching TV, playing video games, surfing the web, and more. There is also a Little Mermaid themed childcare center, Flounder’s Reef, for ages 3 mos. to 3 years
All clubs, except Flounder’s Reef Nursery, are included in the price of cruise.
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 63
A 7-Day/6-Night cruise on the Disney Magic starts at $2,930 for a family of four, gratuities not included
Disney Magic Cruises from Galveston
6, or 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruises to various ports in • 4,Cozumel, Mexico, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, and Costa Maya, Mexico
Western Caribbean Cruises to various ports in Key West, • 8-Night Florida, Costa Maya, Mexico, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, and Cozumel, Mexico
Bahamian Cruises to Castaway Cay, Walt Disney World • 8-Night Resort (Port Canaveral, FL), and Key West, Florida Eastbound Transatlantic Cruises to Castaway Cay, • 14-Night Funchal (Madeira), Portugal, and Gibraltar, U.K.
Note: Disney Wonder will also sail out of Galveston in October for two 7-Night Western Caribbean cruises to Falmouth, Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, and Cozumel, Mexico and in December for two 4-Night Western Caribbean cruises to Cozumel, Mexico. (Please verify as dates, availabilty, and locations are subject to change.)
Visit disneycruise.disney.go.com. 64 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Ship Time Fun
There are numerous port adventures passengers may purchase including speed boating, snorkeling, beach tours, swimming with dolphins or stingrays, and more
From family-fun theme parties to Broadway-style live performances to character appearances, there is always something magical going on during the cruise. The ship is designed to have many onboard activites for all ages. In addition to several pool and play areas for kids, there are nine ‘adults only’ retreats, relaxation areas, and lounges if you need some grown up time. Every day in your room you’ll receive a Personal Navigator that includes the day’s activities, shows, character appearance times, movies, parties, dining options, and other special events of the day. The Buckaneer Blast was the most spectacular theme party of the cruise and included a live show with sword fights, flying characters, and a fireworks extravaganza like no other.
Dine & Play and Babies Travel Lite One of my favorite things about the Disney Magic is a program called Dine and Play. The Kids Club crew members appear at the restaurants toward the end of dinner and happily round up any wiggly or impatient children, giving mom and dad some couple time to enjoy dessert or maybe a cocktail. In their quest to think of everything, Disney Magic also offers the Babies Travel Lite program. Instead of buying, packing, and hauling all those baby items on the ship, Disney lets you pre-order your items and has them waiting for you in your stateroom when you arrive.
Paradise on the Ports Disney has partnered with many well-known Caribbean excursion providers to give passengers ample opportunities for sightseeing and adventure. Too many to list, Magic guests can choose from active excursions like snorkeling, scuba/snuba diving, swimming with dolphins, ATV rides, bike tours, and ocean kayaking to name a few. Guests wanting a more relaxing vacation can choose from the many “resort beach breaks” and can do nothing at all, but relax in a lounge chair sipping a tropical drink. SLM KATRINA KATSARELIS is the editor-in-chief & publisher of Sugar Land Magazine. She also serves as the company’s travel writer.
METHODIST SUGAR LAND NEUROLOGY ASSOCIATES Personal attention, high-tech care for your peace of mind Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates offer diagnosis and treatment of the most common — and most complex — neurological disorders. From sleep apnea, migraines, epilepsy and dementia, to complex spine, peripheral neurological disorders and neuromuscular disorders, the physicians at Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates can provide answers and options using the latest in technology and therapeutic techniques, backed by the resources and staff of Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. Regain your quality of life. Call Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates today.
Larry Tran, M.D., Eddie L. Patton Jr., M.D. and M. Faisal Khan, M.D.
Board-certified neurologists with a special emphasis on neurophysiology, neuromuscular disorders and sleep medicine.
Located on the Methodist Sugar Land Hospital campus in Medical Office Building Two, Suite 131.
Call 281-494-6387 to schedule an appointment.
Medical Office Building Two • 16659 Southwest Freeway, Suite 131 Sugar Land, Texas 77479 • 281-494-6387 MethodistSugarLandDocs.com
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 65
Fort Bend People
Following up with
Sugar Land Magazine catches up with local leukemia survivor two years after we first shared his story Written by Jennifer Heath
After battling acute lymphoblastic leukemia Addison Marshall is now leading a normal life as a freshman at A&M University Addison became good friends with hosptial staff while being treated
Addison was able to meet NFL player Tim Tebow and other Denver Bronco players, courtesy of the Make-a-Wish Foundation
66 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Addison continued to work hard academically and athletically while going through treatments
Valerie Marshall first introduced Sugar Land Magazine readers to her Football Fighter in our winter 2011 issue. During spring football her son Addison began having sharp pains in his ribcage. The family first chalked it up to rough football, but the pain didn’t subside. After an initial X-ray and blood work, doctors at MD Anderson Cancer Center learned that Addison had three broken ribs, but he didn’t get injured from playing sports.
and friends allowed him to be normal,” she says. “Not all schools would be that supportive of him. I’ll go to my grave with gratitude.”
Inspiring Others
His senior year, the football team and coaches nominated Addison for the High School Football Rudy Award. The prestigious award is given to one inspirational high school football player in America. The honor, now renamed the They diagnosed him with acute lymphoblastic leukemia Inspireum Award, awards a $7,500 scholarship check to the (ALL) and found that his spleen was 93% full of cancerous recipient. “My mom told me my coach nominated me for cells, which had become swollen and some award, and I didn’t think much broken his ribs. “I was just in disbelief of it at first,” Addison shares. “It was an at first,” Addison recalls. “You think honor just to be nominated, but once I it can’t happen to you. You think the “I just kept staying won, I was just in disbelief. I read some doctors are all wrong, it’s just disbelief.” of the other stories and all the kids’ positive and finding stories just break your heart.”
A Fighting Chance
the good in whatever
Addison continued to work hard The family began sessions of I could. It’s never as academically and athletically. He chemotherapy, hospital stays, and graduated in the top 10% of Foster trying to find normalcy in a chaotic bad as you think.” High. He continued having a good routine. Doctors told the family - Addison Marshall outlook, no matter what obstacles Addison had an 80% chance of making continued to come up. “I kept thinking a full recovery. However, if he relapsed, that other people were going through his chances dropped to 50-50. things a lot worse than what I was dealing with,” he says. “I “Addison relapsed within nine months,” shares Valerie. “It just kept staying positive and finding the good in whatever I was then in his brain and spine.” could. It’s never as bad as you think.” The Foster High School student began fighting for his life. He refused to give up, he refused to feel sorry for himself, Future Success and he refused to sit back and not take control of his Addison is now studying kinesiology at A&M and wants situation. Addison continued his intense workout routines. to become a physical therapist after college. He continues He became a stickler for healthy eating, and he vowed to having monthly tests to ensure his body remains cancerreturn to the football field before the end of his high school free. As for Valerie, she continues to fight for pediatric career. cancer patients. She travels to Washington, D.C., at least His senior year, Addison asked his doctors to remove his port, the vital tubing that brought the powerful chemotherapy drugs to his body. He knew he wouldn’t be able to get back on the football field with the apparatus still connected to his body. The last half of the last football game of his senior year, Addison was finally able to run onto the field to play on special teams for the Foster Falcons. “I will never forget being in the stands and praying,” Valerie recalls. “I was so worried.” Valerie knows that Addison’s dedication to healthy eating and strong exercise played a vital role in his comeback. “The chemotherapy and radiation saved his life, but his coaches
once a year to talk with congressmen about ways to help drug companies put more research dollars toward finding a cancer cure.
“The silver lining in all of this is that his strength has given me strength,” Valerie says. “It would be rather unproductive of me to sit around and worry and do nothing. I don’t want there to be a next generation of kids with cancer, so I feel it’s my duty to step up and help out where I can.” SLM JENNIFER HEATH is the mother to two boys, Landry and Ryan.
Follow Up story
Addisons battle against ALL was first profiled in Sugar Land Magazine’s winter 2011 issue.
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 67
Fort Bend Homes
Decorating tips and tricks for furnishing large Texas homes and open floor plans
By Katrina Katsarelis
Wide Open
S p ac e s
68 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Space Filling Furnishings
E
An oversized sectional and billiard
table easily fill the ample floor space of this expansive second
floor game room.
Everything is bigger in Texas and that goes for spacious Texas homes. Thanks to a healthy economy, available acreage, and low interest rates, many Sugar Landians are buying a lot of space for not a lot of money. The challenge for Texas homeowners then becomes furnishing large open floor plans in a way that is functional, beautiful, and pleasing to the eye.
Hang ‘Em High
Dark, wrought iron accents and stair rails placed near the top of the room help fill what would otherwise be an overabundance of wall whitespace.
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 69
DefiningMomemts
Pillars, beams, furniture layout, and area rugs help define each specific room in an open concept floor plan.
Connect Rejuvenate Entertain
70 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
From Stark to Warm Homeowners can add
warmth to a previously
bare and stark room, by starting with a conversation area and adding warm lighting, bursts of color, greenery, and rich accent pieces.
Bold Bravado High contrast
colors and bold
patterns work well to fill the gaps in Texas’ larger than life living areas.
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 71
Architectural Accents
Some of the larger Texas homes are built with distinguished architectural accents such as arches, crown molding, pillars, and multi-level ceilings.
NOW OPEN 5425 Hwy 6 Ste D • Missouri City
281-969-7548 NO CREDIT CHECKS...
EVER!
NOW GET IT
** EFIT OF
HER BEN
ICE ’S SERV AARONPLUS!
OT JUST AN
FURNITURE • ELECTRONICS • APPLIANCES • COMPUTERS
GUARANTEED LOW PRICES!† 800.950.7368 Aarons.com 2000 LOCATIONS NATIONWIDE!
Like Us
on Facebook!
†LOW PRICE GUARANTEE applies to identical merchandise (such as, but not limited to, brand, make, model, warranty and features and accessories) in stock and available today comparing Aaron’s retail price to any other local store’s advertised retail price or comparing Aaron’s total cost of lease ownership to any other local store’s advertised total cost of rental or lease ownership valid on the day you purchase or lease from Aaron’s. Claims for $100 cash must be made on the day of your purchase or lease and requires a copy of the offering local competitor’s advertisement or price ticket for such identical merchandise. The low price guarantee does not apply to website prices, limited-quantity sales, pricing errors, mail-in offers or rebates, competitors’ service prices, clearance, out of stock and open-box items. “Local” stores are within a 25 mile radius of the Aaron’s store requested to price match. Please see store or go to Aarons.com for additional details. ** 120 DAYS SAME AS CASH: For Lease agreements longer than 6 months, pay off your merchandise in 120 days or less and pay only the Everyday Low Price, plus tax and ASP on any scheduled payments.
72 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Tall Walls High ceilings are the hallmark of tradi-
tional two story Texas homes. That’s why many decorators will pull in elements such as above-window draperies and wall art to bring the eye up and help balance the room.
Media Room Retreats This homeowner turned a family room into a two-tiered, spectacular media mecca.
The Sky is the Limit
A custom mural is the focal point of this homeowner’s expansive Mediterranean dining hub.
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 73
Great Space Fillers
Area rugs on walls Area rugs on floors Arm chairs Armoires Benches Chaise lounges Chandeliers Club chairs Étagères Floor pillows
Footrests Floor lamps Murals Pedestal tables Plants and shrubs Sideboards Sofa tables Urns Wall mirrors
Katrina Katsarelis is the editor-in-chief and creative director, and enjoys writing and designing home pictorials and features for Sugar Land Magazine.
74 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Lukewarm Luxury
Transform a cold, all-white master bath to a warm sanctuary using rich paint color, luxurious fabrics, and exquisite marble. Final touches such as accent pieces and greenery make the room functional and livable.
Reward Yourself
The Houstonian Golf & Country Club proudly introduces Club Membership* offering a membership experience like no other. Club Membership provides access to the area’s finest resort amenities including fitness facilities, two family style pools, tennis courts, Trellis, the Spa and dining facilities. Reward yourself with Club Membership and join now with our holiday incentives. *Club Membership does not include access to the golf facilities.
Scan for Membership information.
www.houstoniangolf.com 281.340.7280
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 75
pet corner
Owner Susan Brame
Cute Sugar Land Pets Owner Philomena Ned
Owner Sheri
Barney
Henney
Owner Janice Hoppe
We’re sniffing around for more cute pet photos for our next issue! Send your best photos to editor@sugarlandmagazine.com. Please do not send photography protected by copyright.
Owner Christine Pepe
Sparky
Sydney Owner Lynette McQueen
Penny
Owner Rhonda Grazian
Owner Stephanie Honsberger
Bella
Dusty
Owner Chelsea Mollere
Kitty
Luna
Owner Kelly Theisen
Chester
Owner Elsy
Yazi
Gus
Sensory learning, neuromuscular activities, and spatial awareness, otherwise referred to as,
The Little Gym helps children reach their greatest potential. From 4 months through 12 years, classes promote development and build confidence during each stage of childhood.
Call or schedule a free introductory class online.
The Little Gym of Sugar Land www.tlgsugarlandtx.com (281) 277-5470
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 77
My Story
“The decision he made that night not only affected his life, but ours too.” -Tabatha Paul
EDITOR’S NOTE: We would like to thank Tabitha Paul and the Fort Bend County Women’s Center for sharing this story of hope and faith. If you have an inspirational story you’d like to share, email editor@sugarlandmagazine.com. This photo is a representation of a domestic violence victim.
78 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
m o r F Written by Tabatha Paul
By sharing my story I hope to encourage other women who are involved in an abusive relationship
Over two years ago, my children and I were victims of family violence. When you are abused by someone you love, it is traumatic on so many levels. Many people don’t realize it but there can be financial, emotional, psychological, and physical abuse. Fear and anxiety can be overwhelming and powerful. Having no one else in your circle of friends to share your feelings with can give you a sense of loneliness and helplessness, but through the power of prayer, I was able to find help.
A Reason for Staying
I stayed because I wanted my family to be together. I stayed because I thought it was better for the kids to be with their father. I thought things between us would get better with the help of God. Then one day my pastor, Terence Johnson of the Higher Dimension Church in Houston, said in a sermon, “You knew it was a Ford Focus when you got in it. Buckle up!” I then realized what I was dealing with was not going to change. To hear our daughter say that she was tired of daddy leaving us made me open my eyes and see that the decision to leave was not just for me. I decided to end our dating relationship.
The Night that Changed it All
Three months later, my former partner broke into my home and held everyone in the household hostage, including the children. He slapped me, shot at me, and even turned the gun on himself at one point while in front of our 2- and 4-year-old. While the police were outside and 911 was on the phone, I kept praying and begging him not to do this in front of our children. He finally handed the gun over and
started saying he was sorry, he loved us, and he didn’t want to go to jail. Luckily, everyone was able to walk out of the house together and he was arrested that evening. A bond of trust was definitely broken that night. I hated that my children had to experience such a traumatic event and they still remember it like it was yesterday. It breaks my heart that they have become very fearful when they hear similar noises to the sounds they heard that night. That night, he made a decision that not only affected his life, but ours too.
An Answer to Prayer
My prayers were answered with the assistance of the Fort Bend County Women’s Center. They taught me that the abuse was not about me at all, but about him needing to be in control. Regardless of what I was in need of, my case manager at the Women’s Center could point me in the right direction for resources. The group meetings helped me realize I was not alone and that by helping myself I was also helping my children. The Women’s Center, my church, my family, and support from my friends all helped me claim victory over my previous situation.
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 79
City Living Suburban Setting Renovated Apartments 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartment homes in the heart of Sugar Land. Select your new home from five luxury communities. We have the right apartment to fit your lifestyle.
Foundations at Lions Head
Foundations at River Crest
15700 Lexington Blvd, Sugar Land Texas, 77478
855-438-2392 www.foundationslionshead.com
1700 Rivercrest Drive, Sugar Land Texas, 77478
855-451-0614 www.foundationsrivercrest.com
Foundations at Edgewater
Foundations at Austin Colony
855-425-1124 www.foundationsedgewater.com
855-428-6283 www.foundationsaustincolony.com
2222 Settlers Way Blvd, Sugar Land TX, 77478
1800 Austin Colony, Sugar Land TX, 77479
Regency at First Colony
225 Fluor Daniel Drive, Sugar Land Texas, 77479
855-425-1132 www.regencyfirstcolony.com
Winthrop Management’s Sugar Land communities offer the perfect address for those who appreciate quality and attention to detail. You will find excellence inside and out with beautiful surroundings and extraordinary amenities.
“Building Community”
Conveniently located and professionally managed. Winthrop offers all the planned social activities and community features suited for today’s lifestyle.
It’s the Little Things that Make a Difference. Just Ask a Mom.® “It wasn’t until after we became part of the Primrose family that we
realized and appreciated what an awesome decision we had made! As new parents, we thought we were looking for child care. However, what we got is an incredible educational foundation for our children. Education starts the day your child walks into Primrose. Primrose has been an exceptional experience for our family while providing positive first memories for our children.
”
Nicole, Primrose School of Sugar Land Parent
Primrose School at Waterside Estates
281.342.2900
PrimroseWatersideEstates.com Primrose School of Sugar Land
281.277.8585
PrimroseSugarLand.com
Educational Child Care for Infants through Private Kindergarten and After School
The Right Foundation to Build Active Minds, Healthy Bodies and Happy Hearts®
Each Primrose School is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools and The Leader in Educational Child Care are trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2012 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved.
80 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Standing Strong
The decision to stay or leave a situation can be difficult because you struggle between your heart and mind. The harsh words, cruel actions, and physical pain of an abuser are hurtful. I heard so many excuses made by those who had never experienced an abusive relationship. The fear is still there, but through prayer I know I can handle anything. Today my family stands strong to let everyone know that there is help to get out of an abusive relationship. Choose to live abuse free and to love and be loved the way God intended. SLM
8 Clues you’re in an abusive relationship 1. Embarrasses you with put-downs 2. Controls what you do, who you see or talk to or where you go 3. Tells you that you’re a bad
parent or threaten to take away or hurt your children 4. Prevents you from working or attending school 5. Acts like the abuse is no big deal 6. Destroys your property 7. Shoves you, slaps you, chokes you, or hits you 8. Threatens to commit suicide Find these and more tips at thehotline.org
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 81
Kids & FUN
If their birthday isn’t your sweetie’s favorite holiday, it probably ranks in the top three. Make party planning fun by involving them in the process. Let your sweetie help pick themes, colors, or even a favorite game. But most of all, choose an incredible venue that will allow both you and your child to enjoy the party and create lifelong memories. We’ve compiled a list of Fort Bend parent’s recommendations to get you started.
AMC Movie Theatre 4919 S. Main St. 3301 Town Center Blvd. S. 281-277-5858 amctheatres.com AMF Stafford Lanes 4919 S. Main St. Stafford 281-491-2856 amf.com Build-A-Bear Workshop First Colony Mall 16535 SW Fwy. 281-565-2327 buildabear.com Chuck E. Cheese’s 2303 Town Center Dr. 281-277-3283 chuckecheese.com Great Play of Sugar Land 4646 Hwy. 6 Sugar Land 281-277-0475 greatplay.com
See ad on page 36
Gymboree Play & Music 52011 Hwy. 6 S., #300 Missouri City 281-208-4302 gymboreeclasses.com GYMTEX 4502C Hwy. 6 832-876-9888 gymtexgym.com
Iron Cross Gymnastics 225 Gonyo Ln., #202 Richmond 281-342-4766 ironcrossgymnastics.com See ad on page 83
Laserzone 4125 Hwy. 6 281-277-2900 laserzoneusa.com
See ad on page 83
Pinot’s Palette 16170 City Walk 713-893-0923 pinotspalette.com
Sweet and Sassy 2268 Lone Star Dr. 281-240-2060 sweetandsassy.com
Young Chefs Academy 2309 Williams Trace Blvd. 281-242-2665 youngchefsacademy.com
The Little Gym 357 Hwy. 6 Missouri City 832-235-2235 thelittlegym.com
See ad on page 61
Sienna Stables 8255 Camp Sienna Trail Missouri City 281-778-7433 siennastables.com
Tiaras and Tutus 817 Third St. Rosenberg 281-238-8503 tiarasntutus.com
The Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land 13016 University Blvd. 281-313-227 hmns.org
Painting with a Twist 3569 Hwy. 6 281-491-9200 paintingwithatwist.com
Sea Star Swim School and Gymnastics Center 4000 Cartwright Rd. Missouri City 281-403-7946 seastarswimming.com
Sugar Land Ice and Sports Center 16225 Lexington Blvd. 281-265-7465 sugarlandice.com
See ad on page 77
“The best birthday present I’ve ever gotten was a Barbie dream house from my dad.”
Stomping Grounds Playland 15415B SW Fwy. 281-313-3800 stompinggroundsplayland.com
- Aniyah King
82 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Denotes Sugar Land Magazine Advertiser
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 83
Fort Bend Scene
Jennifer and Jeremy Heath
Heather and Vincent Finnegan
Gilbert Limones and Marisa Borrego
Margaret and Kevin Patton
Sugar Land ‘s
RED CARPET Scenes from the 2012 Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance’s Annual Celebration Ball Cirque du Chambre held at Safari Texas Ranch
Lorenda and Gary Finnegan
Jan and Dr. Douglas Thibodeaux
Linda Picard and Mike Flory
Matt and Katrina Katsarelis
Tom and Denise Crayton
84 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Don and Cheryl Brady
Steven and Lisa Matthews
Barbara Meeks and Gary Pearson
Cece and Darrell Jarnopp
Julie and Steve Sams
Gloria and Abel Abila
Christy and Christopher Hill
Joseph and Ellan Freudenberger
Tom and Cristy Jennings
Justin and Erin Ring
Mark and Angela Cowan
Amber McDonald, Kevin Patton, and Veronica Munoz
Gary and Cecilia Martin
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 85
Evelyn Traylor, Jacquie Baly, Teresa Reading, and Asma Rahim
Belinda Guiterrez, John and Alicia Casias
Terri Darrell and Chris Oliver
86 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Robert Ybarra and Cheryl Ballard Ybarra
Vince and Heather Finnegan and Lorenda and Gary Finnegan
Megan Rogers, Roxy Ventura, Taryn Arbeely, Matt and Katrina Katsarelis, Valarie Brown, Melissa Evans, Daneen Rivera, and Kirsten Ham
Special Event?
If you would like us to photograph your special event for Sugar Land Red Carpet, email editor@sugarlandmagazine.com. To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 87
Fort Bend Inspirations
Local men and women do what they do best –
save lives Written by Crystal Rawls
Police Officer Brennan Echols was named the 2012 Officer of the Year by his peers
88 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
When the world is falling apart, heroes are the ones who put the pieces back together. They don’t shy away from disaster - they run toward it - risking their lives to save those who cannot save themselves. As of May 2011, there were 14,340 police officers; 4,230 firefighters; 3,420 emergency medical technicians and paramedics; and 44,600 registered nurses in the HoustonSugar Land-Baytown Metropolitan Division, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Sugar Land Magazine has chosen four individuals to feature that represent the thousands of heroes walking among us every day, making sure we are safe, binding our wounds, or rescuing us from disaster.
Through the good days and bad, Echols keeps his family as his first priority. “You take one day at a time and do the best you can do. Every day your main goal is to go home no matter what.”
“You take one day at a time and do the best you can. Every day your main goal is
Police Officer Brennan Echols
Law enforcement is in Brennan Echols’ blood. The son of a 28-year veteran of the Missouri City Police Department, there was never any question that young Echols would follow in his father’s footsteps. In 2007, at just 21 years old, Echols joined the Sugar Land Police Department‘s patrol division.
to go home no matter what.” - Brennan Echols
“The longer I’m in law enforcement the more I realize I do want to promote and make a career out of this; work my way up through the ranks,” says Echols, who joined the Police Department’s Impact Team in 2010. “I enjoy making a little bit of a difference here and there. Putting people in jail, stopping crimes, catching burglars, that’s all rewarding to me, and it’s fun at the same time.” Diligent in his service, Echols was named the 2012 Officer of the Year by his peers. “It was a very rewarding day in my career. Out of a department of a couple hundred officers, they chose me.”
Fire Inspector/Investigator James Serrano, Life Flight Pilot Darrel Creacy, ER Nurse Krista Mabry, and Police Officer Brennan Echols enjoy making a difference in the Fort Bend community
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 89
90 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Krista Mabry treats each patient like a new friend
ER Nurse Krista Mabry
ER Nurse Krista Mabry wears a necklace with a silver charm in the shape of Africa, a reminder of the weeks spent there as a medical missionary. “It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but very much worth it,” says Mabry of her work in Africa. “It was an amazing experience.” Mabry discovered her passion for nursing at the age of 15 and entered a nursing assistant program in high school. After graduation, she studied to become a Licensed Vocational Nurse, and eventually a Registered Nurse, all while working full time at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital. “I was terrified,” recalls Mabry of her transfer to ER nurse in 2007. “But it was close to home and I wanted to learn. Now I never want to leave.” Working the 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. shift, Mabry treats each patient as a new friend but admits some days are a little harder than others. “It’s not frowned upon to cry in our line of work,” she admits. “The first time I did CPR on a child, I cried all the way home. But you get tougher.” Nominated by her peers for the Nursing Excellence Award in 2009, Mabry is currently studying for her Bachelor’s in nursing and hopes to continue her studies to become a nurse practitioner.
“It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but very much worth it.” - Krista Mabry To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 91
Darrel Creacy has been awarded United States Air Medals for saving lives
Life Flight Pilot Darrel Creacy
In 1976, a helicopter demonstration determined 10-year-old Creacy’s fate. As soon as he could, at the age of 18, Creacy joined the Coast Guard and toured the world. Still fascinated with aviation, he earned a degree in professional aeronautics and a minor in aviation safety through the Coast Guard’s Pre-commissioning Program for Enlisted Personnel. Creacy was awarded two United States Air Medals for saving lives during and after natural disasters. So, it was a natural fit for Creacy to join Life Flight in 2008. “Saving people seems to be what God has put me here to do,” he says. “The most satisfying part of my job is the fulfillment of helping those in need; the bad part is not being able to save everyone.” During the course of his day, Creacy arrives at work by 5:30 a.m. for a 12hour shift. “My job is something like a firefighter. I inspect the helicopter, clean it, and do administrative work until we get a call,” says Creacy. “The most I have flown in a day has been five flights, which makes for a long shift.” Recently, Creacy was able to transfer Representative Gabrielle Giffords and her husband, astronaut Mark Kelly, to the Memorial Hermann TIRR facility. “We do really neat things.”
“Saving people seems to be what God has put me here to do.” - Darrel Creacy 92 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
“One of the biggest rewards of my job is the amount of fire loss that my co-workers and I have prevented.” - James Serrano City of Sugar Land Fire Inspector/Investigator James Serrano
James Serrano always knew he wanted to serve, but as an 18-year-old college student, was unsure of where to start. “I remember the day I got my calling. I was at a stoplight in downtown Richmond … asking God what I was going to do with my life,” he shares. A few minutes later, Serrano got his answer. “I drove up on a car accident. A car had struck a tree.” Quick-thinking Serrano approached the car and stayed with the elderly couple inside until the emergency personnel came. He worked alongside the firefighters and paramedics to help the couple. The next week, Serrano signed up to be a volunteer firefighter. He soon graduated from both the fire and police academies. In 2003, he joined the City of Sugar Land’s Fire Marshall’s Office as a fire inspector/ investigator. “One of the biggest rewards of my job is the amount of fire loss that my co-workers and I have prevented. It is amazing what we have accomplished,” says Serrano. “One of my closest friends who was a fire marshal … would always tell me we can save more lives if we can prevent fires from happening and provide the fire protection needed in buildings and homes to keep a tragedy from occurring. I still believe that to this day and always will.” SLM
James Serrano is proud of the amount of fire loss he has helped prevent
Crystal Rawls is a freelance writer and marketing specialist at Fluor. To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 93
SEEN In Sugar Land Magazine
A Night to Remember The Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance’s 2012 Celebration Ball, which was themed “Cirque du Chambre,” was a huge hit with guests. The night was filled with dancing, cocktails, live and silent auctions, and a delicious dinner.
Fun for All Guests enjoyed food tastings, cocktails, a live band, and an auction at Mercedes-Benz of Sugar Land at the Taylor Sears Champion the Cure for Cystic Fibrosis Gala.
94 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Out and about at various events, grand openings, and soirees across Sugar Land Select Photography by Megan Rogers
Network Nites Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce celebrates its recent ribbon cutting of Sugar Land MedPed Clinic with Dr. Bhuchar.
A New Punch Title Boxing Club of Sugar Land/Missouri City jumpedstarted their Power Hour with a Ribbon Cutting open to the community. To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 95
Scouting News
Troop Visits Florida Keys
We love our Fort Bend scouts Troop Visits Florida Keys
Boy Scout Troop 1631 enjoys the reefs and shipwrecks off Islamorada in the beautiful Florida Keys during their SCUBA fun at the Florida High Adventure Sea Base. The troop prepares for a different high adventure destination each year, and enjoys many local destinations. Troop 1631 is chartered by the Fort Bend Optimist Club in Sugar Land, and is affiliated with the Sam Houston Area Council.
Desai Earns Gold Award
Desai Earns Gold Award
Girl Scout Krisha Desai of Rainbow Stars Service Unit-Troop 721 recently completed her Girl Scout Gold Award. Desai’s project benefited the Interfaith Ministries (IMGF). It was a Healthy Living Clinic for Refugees in conjunction with Refugee Week Health Fair. The Gold Award is the highest achievement a Girl Scout can earn, symbolizing outstanding accomplishments in the areas of leadership, community service, and advocacy.
Boy Scout Troop Visits Sugar Land Mayor
Boy Scout Troop 1631 recently visited with Mayor Thompson to help obtain their First Class rank. This particular requirement for scouts is to visit and discuss constitutional rights and obligations as a U.S. citizen with an elected official, judge, attorney, civil servant, principal, or teacher.
Girl Scouts Share Accomplishments with Brownie Troop
Greatwood Junior Girl Scouts from Troop 3033 recently visited with Brownie Troop 29170 and shared the different ways they were able to earn their Bronze Award.
Michael Sallean
Graham Preston
Local Scouts Receive Eagle Scout Award
Michael Sallean and Graham Preston have been awarded the Eagle Scout Award which is the highest achievement earned in Boy Scouting. Sallean designed and created a park at the Rosenberg Railroad Museum. Preston attained his Eagle Scout Award by designing and installing new shelving in the Band Hall at Stephen F. Austin High School.
Boy Scout Troop Visits Sugar Land Mayor
Girl Scouts Share Accomplishments with Brownie Troop
Do you have scouting news? Email it to editor@sugarlandmagazine.com. Please do not send photography protected by copyright. 96 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Notes & News Tidbits from the Fort Bend Community
NRG Energy Donates to Literacy Council
The Literacy Council of Fort Bend County was recently awarded $5,000 from NRG Energy. The grant will go towards the GED program for adult literacy. The Literacy Council has changed many lives through its mission of ending intergenerational cycles of illiteracy.
Fond Farewell to Mayor Moore
City of Richmond Mayor Hilmar Moore passed away on Tuesday, December 4 at the age of 92. He was appointed mayor in 1949 and served until his death. He is believed to have been the longest serving mayor in the nation.
Teaming up for Fort Bend Meals on Wheels
First Victoria Bank and the Sugar Land Skeeters teamed up with Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels to help alleviate senior hunger in Fort Bend County through the Brown Bag Project.
Fluor Announces Beneficiaries for its Golf for Greater Houston Tournament Fluor Corporation announced that Blessed Be Hope for Three, Second Mile Mission Center, Kids’ Meals, and Fisher House will be the beneficiaries of its 2013 Golf for Greater Houston charity golf tournament.
Sugar Creek Resident Honored with Hadassah’s Women of Courage Award
Debbie Levine will be honored with Hadassah’s Women of Courage Award this February. Levine is the founder of Women of Courage and the honoree of the award that is now celebrating its 9th year of recognizing extraordinary women who have focused on important issues and gone the extra mile to make a difference in the lives of others.
News to Share? Email Us editor@sugarlandmagazine.com
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 97
Za’Mor
W
R
CU
ST KI
DS
TE
INNE
Za’Mor Turner’s favorite thing about school is learning and playing with his friends
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 99
Education
How to be a
Preschool
Detective Find the right preschool that fits your family’s and your child’s needs Written by Kirsten Ham
Children develop independence, coordination, orderliness, concentration, and self-discipline at Sugar Creek Montessori School
Students at Primrose School at Waterside Estates are encouraged to learn through play
W
When the time comes to choose the right preschool, a little detective work will go a long way in selecting the preschool that best fits your child. Fort Bend parents and teachers share some tips for getting your child’s academic career headed in the right direction. Ages birth to 5 years is considered one of the most critical time frames in the development of an individual’s brain. Experts implore parents to not settle and to research their preschools thoroughly before making a decision. “There is a huge difference between babysitting and education,” explains Nina Patel with Kids ‘R’ Kids North Sugar Land. “It is critical
for the future of a child to be put into a program that has a curriculum that concentrates on developing all aspects of the child.”
Scope out Schools
An easy check online can reveal citations and reports regarding a specific school. If there are red flags, it’s important to discuss these with the director of the school and provide them the opportunity to clarify. “Getting to personally know the people at the schools is critical,” says Marsha Akers, curriculum director for Primrose School at Waterside Estates. “Will these individuals partner with you as a parent?”
100 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Aubrey enjoys learning by reading about Raggedy Ann, coloring, and writing
To find out if a school is as good as it seems on paper, parents are encouraged to tour at least four schools and compare environments. Patel adds, “Looking online is a great way to start, but you cannot get a real feel for a school unless you visit.”
Enrolling Students
Inquire about what you will need in order to enroll, and gather those resources well in advance of enrollment. Talk to administration ahead of time to find out how the school handles enrollment and what you need to do. Some parents even go to the extent of waiting in line overnight to make sure that their children are accepted into the preschool of their choice. You will also want to make sure if the school’s enrollment timing is suitable for you and your child’s schedule.
Play vs. Learning
A primary concern of any parent is how their child will be learning. Although there are many approaches, most experts agree that nurturing a child’s imaginative side brings the greatest amount of learning and success. “For young children, play does not go against learning,” explains Akers. “Children are active learners trying to make sense of their world. They do this through play.” Teachers often encourage students to play with words by making them into games such as creating rhymes, alliterations, or even a dramatic play. “Through play, children learn problem,-solving skills, patience, turn-taking and empathy,” says Karen Rombach of Southminster Presbyterian School. “Parents need to seek out a preschool program that offers both open-ended, unstructured play and active play while maintaining a balance.”
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 101
Questioning Curriculum
It is important to compare schools’ philosophies since every school varies in their approach to learning. Be prepared to ask specific questions about curriculum, activities, and learning stations. “Our F.L.E.X. Learning Program provides the optimal environment for the social and academic development of young children,” explains Gina Vu with The Goddard School. “We focus on academic, social, creative, and child-centered development to provide a well-rounded experience and ensure children become confident, joyful, and fully prepared students.” A well-rounded program is imperative for a child’s development and ensuring that they are well prepared to advance to the next level of education. “The most important aspect of a preschool is how they prepare our children for Kindergarten and the outside world,” says Sasha Udengaard, mother of 5-year-old Logan. “It gets them ready to follow rules and be in a social environment.” Udengaard also points out that a child’s preschool experience is teaching them what school will be like. “If they attend a school where they are miserable, they might not enjoy school later on,” she adds.
Find licensing reports at dfps. state.tx.us. Search by zip code under ‘Child Care Licensing.’ Student Interaction
When visiting, take note of how the kids are interacting with one another. Pay attention to how certain behaviors and interactions between the children are handled by the staff. Ask yourself if the preschool’s values and discipline style align with yours. Picture your child or children in the environment, interacting with the other kids there. Determine if your child would easily fit into the current student environment.
First Instinct
Part of your evaluation will be based on comparisons, facts, and referrals and part of your selection will be based on intuition. “If something feels off or you don’t really like the school or you aren’t comfortable, chances are your child isn’t going to be either,” advises Udengaard. Let yourself be guided by your own values and the needs of your child, take your time and you’ll find the perfect preschool for your family. KIRSTEN HAM enjoys being on the editorial team for Sugar Land Magazine and teaches a preschool class at her local church.
SUGAR LAND
PRESCHOOL GUIDE
ABC Academy 9914 Belknap Rd. 281-242-2988 Brazos Montessori 4022 Angel Springs Dr. 281-980-9830 Cambridge Montessori School 6380 Highway 90A 281-491-2223 Casa-Dei-Bambini 20211 S. University Blvd. Missouri City 281-261-2272 See ad on page 90 Childtime Learning Centers 4935 Sandhill Dr. 281-494-4800 Cornerstone Christian Academy 2140 First Colony Blvd. 281-980-0842 See ad on page 61 Creative Learning Academy 2255 Williams Trace Blvd. 281-265-3555 New Territory Early Learning Program 1200 Walker School Rd. 281-565-1070 Education Station 3111 Highway 6 281-980-1112 Faith Lutheran Preschool 800 Brooks St. 281-242-4453 Fellowship Christian Academy 16425A Old Richmond Rd. 281-495-1814 Fort Bend Christian Academy 1250 Seventh St. 281-263-9142
102 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
The Goddard School 9722 US Highway 90A, #111 281-491-0313 See ad on page 61 Holy Cross Preschool 5653 West Riverpark Dr. 281-633-2000 Kids ‘R’ Kids Fort Bend Several locations kidsrkidsfortbend.com See ad on page 53 Primrose School of First Colony 4605 Austin Pkwy. 281-565-2707 See ad on page 112 Primrose Schools Sugar Land 1315 Soldiers Field Dr. 281-277-8585 Waterside Estates 1810 Lewisville Dr. Richmond 281-342-2900 See ad on page 108 Shady Oak Christian School 503 Main St. Richmond 281-232-2251 Southminster School 4200 Cartwright Rd. Missouri City 281-261-8872 See ad on page 51 St. John’s School for Little Children 400 Jackson St. Richmond 281-342-7971 Sugar Creek Montessori School 615 Dulles Ave. Stafford 281-261-1000 See ad on page 24 The Towne Creek School 3311 Williamsburg Ln. Missouri City 281-499-8030 Please see ad on page 103 Denotes Sugar Land Magazine Advertiser
Preschool Detective Clues Is this the right environment for my child? Will this school develop all aspects of my child? Does the school have a well-planned curriculum for different age groups? What is the student to teacher ratio? Does the preschool match my value system? Is the school accredited and licensed?
W Qu ith al A ity E Pe d rs uc on at al ion To uc h
INFANTS THROUGH KINDERGARTEN AFTERSCHOOL AND SUMMER PROGRAMS An opportunity for students to reach their full potential; to attain a self esteem that will prepare them for future school success. 28 years of children’s programming Degreed, experienced teachers School readiness curriculum Small teacher to student ratio Special instruction in: Spanish, P.E., Computer and Science
Bring this ad in to receive a discount on your registration fee! SLM
For more info: visit thetownecreekschool.com 3311 Williamsburg Ln. Missouri City, TX 77459 TEL: (281) 499-8030
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 103
CAMPUS SNAPSHOT The school was named after William “Willie” Velasquez, a Presidential Medal of Freedom winner, who encouraged Hispanics to register and exercise their right to vote
‘‘
“We set high expectations from the first day. We’ve been able to keep a great team of teachers together and are blessed with very supportive parents.” - Heather Patterson, Principal
Students are successful at Velasquez because they know their teachers truly care
Velasquez has been rated an Exempary school since it opened
Author and teacher, Ron Clark visit with Velasquez teachers
Named an Exemplary School six years in a row, Velasquez Elementary is a glittering example of an enthusiastic learning enviornment Written by Phillip Sulak | Photos Courtesy of Velasquez Elementary
Gitter. It’s hard to walk anywhere in Velasquez Elementary without ending up with at least a few sparkles on your clothing. The motto for Heather Patterson, the Richmond school’s principal, may as well be “It don’t mean a thing, if it ain’t got that bling!” The glitter, the pink, the never-ending sequins are all a sign of Patterson’s seemingly endless enthusiasm. The enthusiasm spreads around the building, infecting the teachers, students and volunteers alike. “My personality is to be loud and proud,” says Patterson, “I also think it is welcoming to visitors. They know right away, Velasquez isn’t like any other school. Besides, sparkles make everything better!”
104 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Principal Heather Patterson School Colors Red, Black, and Gray MASCOT Wildcats Current Enrollment 687 Year Opened 2006 Location 402 Macek, Richmond SCHOOL DISTRICT Lamar ISD
Rules for Success The Essential 55 Patterson credits “relationships” for making the school successful. Teachers set expectations high, but because the students know that the teacher truly cares, they are willing to do what it takes to succeed. “If the students don’t think you love them, they won’t produce.” Patterson also credits “The Essential 55,” which was instituted at the school by Beth Dow, who opened Velasquez in 2006. The Rules act as a classroom management program and as a social contract between students and staff. Patterson said these “Grandma’s Rules,” cover everything from making eye contact to congratulating classmates when they do something good, from how to cover your mouth when sneezing to hand-washing procedures, and more.
Top Educational Practices Patterson said taking care of teachers, including providing the best training and using the best educational practices, is also essential in making the school successful. Velasquez teachers are frequent applicants – and winners – of grants from the Lamar Educational Awards Foundation (L.E.A.F.) In seven years, $121,504 has been awarded to the school, providing opportunities that would otherwise go unfunded. Winning grants include technology, such as iPads for classrooms, visits from dramatic troupes and authors, as well as field trips. This year, Velasquez second-grade teachers wrote a winning grant that will take the grade group to Moody Gardens in Galveston. PHILLIP SULAK is the Communications Coordinator for Lamar CISD.
• Rated ‘Exemplary’ all six years • A National Blue Ribbon School • Took the entire 5th grade class on a college visit
• L.E.A.F. winners
MORE AMAZING ACCOLADES
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 105
SCHOOL SCOOP News from Fort Bend Schools
Kids for Kindness Club
Campbell Elementary
Celebrating International Day of Peace Campbell Elementary Art teacher, Deborah Holzhuter, had Campbell students create a “pinwheel of peace.” Each student was able to place their pinwheel in the school’s front circle drive to show their efforts to promote the International Day of Peace.
Siebenaler Signs Letter of Intent
Sugar Land resident and former Lamar Consolidated standout Dylan Siebenaler has signed a national letter of intent to play golf for Texas A&M University. Siebenaler was recruited by a number of wellknown Division 1 golf programs across the country, but he decided to stay close to home and play for the Aggies.
Terry High School
Student Wins Honorable Mention Students Partake in IronKids Fun Run Fort Bend ISD students recently participated in the UnitedHealthcare Activate for Kids training sessions to help prepare for the IronKids Fun Run. Students spent the past year learning about healthy eating and participating in numerous activities designed to help get them in shape.
Ashley Escamilla from B. F. Terry High School won honorable mention in the Latino Art Beat Contest. The exhibit included over 2,000 art pieces. Shown with Escamilla and her entry is THS Art Teacher Joan Batts. Principal at Terry High is Dr. Vera Wehring.
106 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Stephen F. Austin HS
Angels Honor New Members and Directors Stephen F. Austin’s award winning Austin Angels celebrates the induction of new members in a ceremony held at Stephen F. Austin High School. The rookie class this year is made up of 15 young ladies from Austin High School. The Austin Angels are the dance team at Stephen F. Austin High School.
Angels Induction Day
High Schools Raising Money for the Cure The staff and students at George Ranch and Lamar Consolidated high schools raised funds for the Susan G. Komen Foundation to help fight breast cancer. The schools raised more than $3,500.
School News to Share? editor@sugarlandmagazine.com
Art Contest Winner
Lamar Consolidated & Needville
Receiving Dictionaries
The Rosenberg Rotary Club recently donated dictionaries to every third grade student in the Lamar Consolidated and Needville school districts. Rosenberg City Manager Jack Hamlett, the city’s Chief Financial Officer Joyce Vasut, and Lamar CISD Executive Director of Elementary Education Laura Lyons, all members of the Rotary, delivered the new dictionaries to students at Williams Elementary.
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 107
Biz Chat
News from Fort Bend Area Businesses
Invisalign Provider Gary Hilsher, D.D.S.
Pool & Spa Combos Start at $29,995
Gary A. Hilsher DDS has been in practice over 30 years, offering a variety of dental services, including, cosmetic dentistry; bleaching; restoring damaged teeth; digital X-rays; cleanings; and INVISALIGN® - the most advanced treatment for achieving straight teeth without metal brackets and wires. Properly aligned teeth function better, are easier to keep clean, and may help prevent other problems later in life. Call to schedule a free consultation today and be on the path to have the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted!
Get a jump start on transforming your backyard to an outdoor paradise now so you can enjoy it well in time for spring. Richard’s Total Backyard Solutions takes your desires, wants, and needs and incorporates them into a stunning customized design for your family. Richard’s Total Backyard is currently offering a pool/spa combo starting at just $29,995. For a limited time, they are also including their Free Landscaping Package valued at $3,000 with any pool/spa combo.
281-265-3567 | drhilsher.com | See ad on page 115
713-777-7665 | richardstbs.com | See ad on page 6
Sugar Land Plastic Surgery to Open New Facility
Physician Directed Weight Loss Center
Dr. John T. Nguyen and staff of Sugar Land Plastic Surgery are opening a new state-of-the-art facility in spring 2013. The new facility will help provide the most positive, luxurious consultation, surgical, and spa experience enhancing patient centered approach. The beautiful lakeside location, modern design, and latest technological features demonstrate the dedication to patients and commitment to quality patient care, safety, and concierge service. Follow their progress on Facebook! 281-980-8000 | mybodysurgeon.com | See ad on page 31
Sugar Land Wellness and Weight Loss is a medical office committed to your health. One size does not fit all, so they offer three separate weight loss options. They include NeuroAssist, MediFast, and OptiFast. Each plan offers unique benefits and advantages. They also have an i-lipo laser which spot treats troubled areas that exercise and weight loss cannot correct. Call to set up an appointment and design an individual plan to weight loss and wellness. 832-494-7469 | sugarlandwellness.net | See ad on page 45
108 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
Advertisement
Hottest Fitness Workout Sweeping the Nation
Awakened Yoga Offers 35 Classes
Title Boxing Club’s POWER HOUR group fitness classes have over 60 heavy bags. This explosive total body boxing and kickboxing workout can burn up to 1,000 calories or more per workout. People of all ages and fitness levels are encouraged to go “Bell to Bell” in these fun and energizing classes where the “First Shot is Free.” Try a free trial class where experienced trainers will demonstrate techniques for a safe and effective workout.
It’s more than the poses… these are yoga classes that will awaken you… body, mind, and soul! Yogi’s will breathe, build strength and flexibility, and then leave feeling energized, empowered, and peaceful. They offer over 35 classes per week ranging from gentle to athletic, including heated and non-heated classes, pilates, prenatal, and kids yoga. Classes will help stretch, strengthen, and promote blissfulness. Babysitting available three days a week. Located in Sugar Land Town Square.
855-235-2235 | titleboxingclub.com | See ad on page 36
281-491-0221 | awakenedyogastudio.com | See ad on page 39
Date Night at Pinot’s Palette
Innovative Thinking & Total Child Development
It’s a new year and if you still haven’t had a chance to (Paint. Drink. Have Fun.) then now is the time to come in. Pinot’s Palette is starting the year with the popular Pet Project, where painters can come in to paint a custom portrait of their pet. They are also bringing back Date Night and introducing Teen Night. For a more intimate setting be sure to check out their private party room. For an updated calendar, visit their website. 713-893-0923 | pinotspalette.com/sugarland | See ad on page 61
Walk into Sugar Creek Montessori and you’ll notice the differences almost immediately. In a Montessori classroom, every exercise, every method and every piece of equipment takes advantage of a child’s inherent desire to learn. Children are free to work in groups or on their own. They may sit at a table or move about the room. Here, the curriculum and teachers’ roles are all carefully designed to honor self-paced growth while encouraging social cooperation. Call for availability and to schedule a tour. 281-261-1000 | sugarcreekmontessori.com | See ad on page 24
If your business would like to be featured in Biz Chat, email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 109
SUGAR LAND Magazine Advertiser Index APARTMENTS Del Webb Sweetgrass
pg. 70
Winthrop Management
pg. 80
delwebb.com/sweetgrass
See ad for locations
ATTORNEYS Travers & Travers
20501 Katy Fwy., #124 Katy 281-492-2166
2526 Fifth St. Stafford 281-499-9684
Auto Check Complete Car Care 3702 FM 1092 Missouri City 281-499-1000
Colony Car Wash
2323 Settlers Way 281-265-9274
Texas Direct Auto 12053 S.W. Fwy. Stafford texasdirectauto.com
pg. 64
20211 S. University Blvd. Missouri City 281-261-2272
Kids ‘R’ Kids
See website for locations kidsrkidsfortbend.com
Primrose School of First Colony 4605 Austin Pkwy. 281-565-2707
pg. 74
pg. 86
pg. 111
pg. 19
pg. 90
pg. 53
The Towne Creek School
3311 Williamsburg Ln. Missouri City 281-499-8030
Young Leaders Campus
6508 Hwy. 90A 832-559-8710
pg. 112
pg. 61
pg. 103
13303 S.W. Fwy. sugarcreek.net/marriageprep
pg. 98
pg. 105
Minuti Coffee
pg. 111
Stomping Grounds Playland
pg. 111
15415 S.W. Fwy. 281-313-3800
COSMETIC SURGERY David Altamira, MD, FACS
16701 Creek Bend Dr., #100 713-271-9000
pg. 48
5819 Hwy. 6 S., #230 Missouri City 281-499-3541
Gary A. Hilsher, DDS
pg. 115
Gretchen M. Jetton, DDS Dentistry for Children
pg. 23
17320D W. Grand Pkwy. S. 281-232-7556
Larry Caldwell, DDS and Associates
pg. 18
15200 S.W. Fwy. 281-565-5437
Orthodontique
pg. 37
Quynh Tan, DDS, MS 19875 S.W. Fwy., #250 281-937-7633
Villalon Callis Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
Ben Villalon, DDS Amber Callis, DDS, MS 103 Fluor Daniel Dr. 713-272-0036
pg. 5 & 42
Dr. Y Bryan Lee 56 Sugar Creek Center Blvd., #250 281-242-3338
Foot Care Associates
Dr. Sloan Gordon, DPM, FACFAS 1327 Lake Pointe Pkwy., #520 713-988-6600
pg. 12
pg. 45
pg. 87
Lorelei Capocyan, MD
pg. 8
17510 W. Grand Pkwy. S., #220 281-201-1338
MedCare Pediatric Group, LP
See ad for locations 281-564-3300
Eddie L. Patton Jr., MD M. Faisal Khan, MD Larry Tran, MD 16659 S.W. Fwy., MOB 2, #131 281-494-6387
pg. 81
pg. 112
Jeffery Alford, MD 16651 S.W. Fwy., #100 832-494-7469
The Speech and Learning Center
5819 Hwy. 6, #360 Missouri City 281-403-2600
The Spine and Sports Center Benoy Benny, MD 1250 Creek Way Dr., #200 832-564-4897
Town Center Pediatrics
Dawn M. Lord, MD 3521A Town Center Blvd. S. 281-494-2255
pg. 45
pg. 103
University of Houston Sugar Land
1400 Universty Blvd. sugarland.uh.edu
pg. 3
pg. 18
pg. 57
pg. 83
Pinot’s Palette
pg. 24
Ronda’s Interior Design Studio
pg. 77
pg. 65
Twogether Maids
pg. 81
Emerus Hospital
pg. 111
Excel Urgent Care
pg. 111
Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital
pg. 116
17500 W. Grand Pkwy. S. 281-725-5000
110 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
LODGING Best Western Sugar Land Inn
pg. 111
Hilton Garden Inn
pg. 111
6330 E. Riverpark Dr. 281-232-0680
Aliana
alianahouston.com
Associa
11000 Corporate Centre Dr., #150 Houston 713-329-7175
pg. 114
pg. 23
PHOTOGRAPHERS Megan Rogers Photography
pg. 87
Pixel Studio Productions
pg. 51
meganrogersphotography.com
Cornerstone Christian Academy
pg. 51
Southminster School
pg. 61
4200 Cartwright Rd. Missouri City 281-261-8872
615 Dulles Ave. 281-261-1000
RE/MAX Fine Properties
Dorothy Yee 4500 Hwy. 6 713-826-2373
pg. 72
RESTAURANTS 59 Diner
12550 S.W. Fwy. 281-242-5900
HOSPITALS
6840 Hwy. 6 281-403-3660
pg. 14
REALTORS pg. 24
16000 S.W. Fwy., #100 281-277-0911
Texas Children’s Hospital
Sugar Creek Montessori School pg. 24
Texas Shutter Company
20220 Hempstead Rd., #1 Houston 832-748-8837
pg. 4
1317 Lake Pointe Pkwy. 281-637-7000
2140 First Colony Blvd. 281-980-0842
pg. 80
314 W. Milam Wharton 979-532-1624
St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital
PRIVATE SCHOOLS pg. 75
Mahoney’s House Cleaning Services
281-777-1526 mahoneyscleaningservices.com
pg. 2
15331 S.W. Fwy. 281-277-1055
GOLF & COUNTRY CLUBS
281-340-7280 houstoniangolf.com
SPHIER Emergency Room
8721 Hwy. 6 Missouri City 832-321-1000
ORGANIZATIONS
Painting with a Twist
The Houstonian Golf & Country Club
pg. 10
NEW HOME DEVELOPMENTS
pg. 36
16170 City Walk 713-893-0923
16655 S.W. Fwy. 281-313-2225
722 Bonaventure Way 281-491-7777
Great Play of Sugar Land 4646 Hwy. 6 S. 281-277-0475
Methodist Sugar Land Hospital
15400 S.W. Fwy., #200 281-494-7010
EDUCATION
832-437-4034 twogethermaids.com
Physical Therapy Care & Aquatic Rehab of Fort Bend pg. 74
1500 Jackson, #400 Richmond 281-344-8900
Sugar Land Wellness & Weight Loss Program
pg. 24
HOME SERVICES pg. 86
Medinet Family Care Clinic
Sterling L. Carter, PT, MS, CSCS 1449 Hwy. 6, #260 281-240-3140
3569 Hwy. 6 281-491-9200
Gastroenterology Associates of Texas, PA Gregory L. Shannon, MD
12371 S. Kirkwood Rd. Stafford 713-995-9292
Sterling Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation
EVENT & BIRTHDAY VENUES
DOCTORS & MEDICAL SERVICES
Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates
COFFEE HOUSES 1535A Hwy. 6 281-265-3344
Tim Cashion, DDS Teresa Cody, DDS 17003 S.W. Fwy., #100 281-815-4193
15200 S.W. Fwy., #200 281-201-8463
CHURCHES Sugar Creek Baptist Church
pg. 17
Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists
281-277-8585 281-342-2900
9722 Hwy. 90A, #111 281-491-0313
DENTISTS
4666 Hwy. 6 281-265-3567
Primrose Schools of Sugar Land & of Waterside Estates pg. 80
The Goddard School
13135 Dairy Ashford Rd., #530 281-980-8000
Fort Bend Dental Associates
CHILDCARE CENTERS Casa dei Bambini Montessori
pg. 31
C&C Dental
AUTO DEALERS & SERVICES Auto Central Car Care Center
Sugar Land Plastic Surgery John T. Nguyen, MD, FACS, FICS
BLU Restaurant/Lounge 2248 Texas Dr. 281-903-7324
pg. 111
pg. 90
Centercourt Pizza & Brew
pg. 111
Freebirds
pg. 111
7425 Hwy. 6, #100 Missouri City 832-947-0440 24401 S.W. Fwy. Rosenberg 281-232-4432
Don’t forget to tell them you found it in SUGAR LAND MAGAZINE
Hoggs ‘N Chicks
pg. 111
Jade Ly Asian Bistro
pg. 111
Texan Grill
pg. 111
8817 Hwy. 6, #900 Missouri City 281-778-4644 5022K, Hwy. 90 281-313-3300
13134 Dairy Ashford 281-491-1131
The Cheesecake Factory
16535 S.W. Fwy., #2000 281-313-9500
Wendy’s
16710 S.W. Fwy. 281-277-1661
pg. 38
pg. 111
SENIOR LIVING & SERVICES Eagle’s Trace
ericksonliving.com/careers
pg. 90
Shopping Aaron’s
5425D Hwy. 6 Missouri City 281-969-7548
pg. 72
SPORTS & RECREATION Awakened Yoga
pg. 39
Iron Cross Gymnastics
pg. 83
2230 Lone Star Dr. 281-491-0221 225 Gonyo Rd., #202 Richmond 281-342-4766
LA Fitness
5402 Hwy. 6 Missouri City 281-208-8310
Personal Trainer Jeremy Smith 713-885-4848
pg. 111
pg. 77
Sugar Land Parks & Recreation pg. 37 234 Matlage Way 281-275-2885
The Little Gym
pg. 77
Title Boxing Club
pg. 36
3571 Hwy. 6 281-277-5470
4823 Hwy. 6 S. Missouri City 855-235-2235
SWIMMING POOLS Richard’s Total Backyard Solutions 1701 Hwy. 6 S. Houston 713-777-7665
pg. 6
VISION CARE Sugarland Eye & Laser Center 736 Hwy. 6, #101 281-240-0478
pg. 7
Want to be in the Resource Guide?
Become a Sugar Land Magazine advertiser. Email sales@ sugarlandmagazine.com or call 281-579-7944
To advertise, call 281-579-7944 or email sales@sugarlandmagazine.com sugar land magazine • 111
After school. Totally cool. Before and After School programs for school-age children A variety of exciting activity ‘Zones’ designed to keep your child happy and engaged
Primrose School of First Colony
(Under New Ownership) 4605 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land, TX 77479
281.565.2707
PrimroseFirstColony.com
Educational Child Care for Infants through Private Kindergarten and After School Each Primrose School is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools and The Leader in Educational Child Care are trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2012 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved.
112 • sugar land magazine Visit SugarLandMagazine.com for Fort Bend jobs, events, news and more.
H ME & Garden celebration
th th 6 1 t o h c a r p a r m i l m 7 o r f
Fun is in full bloom at Plant yourself at Aliana’s Model Home Village and enjoy a veritable bouquet of cooking demonstrations, gardening tips, and shopping for your home. Don’t miss out on all the fun, fabulous food, prizes and more!
For a full schedule of events and information about our 13 prize drawings, visit alianahouston.com. 290
45
6
Grand Parkway
N
llway Westpark To Clodine Rd.
64 FM 14 Harlem Rd
99
6 W. Bellfort W. Airport
SUGAR LAND
Chef Hosea Rosenberg, Top Chef Season 5
W E F I R ST E ON KEN D LY !
Sam Houston Tollway
10
59
10
The Galleria
Downtown Houston
59 288
610
610 90
RICHMOND 90
59 First Colony Mall
Sam Houston Tollway
288 Randy Lemmon, KTRH GardenLine
W E F I R ST E ON KEN D LY !
99
Aliana’s Model Home Village is on W. Airport at the Grand Parkway. Ashton Woods • Coventry • Darling • Highland • J.Patrick • Meritage • Onyx • Perry • Plantation • Ryland • Trendmaker • Village Builders As with any financial decision, buyers are encouraged to do their own due diligence when selecting a home builder. Developer does not guarantee or warrant the obligations of, or construction by, such Builders, or the availability or pricing of homes. Prices, specifications and details concerning homes are established by the Builders and are subject to change without notice. All rights reserved. “ALIANA” and “Handcrafted for Living” are trademarks of the Aliana Development Company. © 2013 Aliana Development Company
AMONG THE
NATION’S BEST IN MATERNITY CARE
We’ve been recognized by HealthGrades® for delivering some of the nation’s top maternity care. Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital has received the HealthGrades 5-Star rating for maternity care. That means we’re delivering care resulting in more healthy and happy families.