MARCH 2013
HOME
Is Where the Heart Is
Home Transformations
Designing with Dina
Getting Graduates
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Student Outreach High School Hot Shot
COLTON TADLOCK
+ OUT & ABOUT in the Heart of Pearland
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© 2013 Texas Children’s Hospital. All rights reserved. PFW370_011013
OB/GYN care for every woman.
Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women has opened its first community OB/GYN practice, bringing its renowned expertise to the Pearland area. Women will have access to advanced and comprehensive care close to home from Baylor College of Medicine physicians who provide routine and subspecialty services. Plus, all our mothers-to-be gain instant entry to deliver at the Pavilion for Women, where they and their baby have access to a full range of specialized care all in one location. Already a member of your community through Texas Children’s Pediatrics, we’re excited to expand our care for women and children with OB/GYN services. To schedule an appointment, call 281-412-4335. Visit women.texaschildrens.org/pearland to learn more.
Obstetric and gynecOlOgy Outpatient services nOw in pearland.
Primrose Schools Summer Camp – ®
Passport to Adventure! From the great outdoors and virtual travel to music and dance, Camp PrimroseSM is your family’s passport to adventure and fun this summer! Exciting field trips, creative activities and fun adventures with friends will help Explorers play, laugh and learn their way through an unforgettable summer. Customize your adventure by selecting specific camp weeks or join us all summer long!
Start planning your summer adventure now – CampPrimrose.com
Join Primrose Schools’ summer camp for a chance to win a $1,000 American Express Travel gift card!* For more details, visit CampPrimrose.com. *No purchase necessary.
Primrose School of Pearland 713.436.4120 | PrimrosePearland.com Primrose School of Pearland Parkway 281.997.8855 | PrimrosePearlandPkwy.com
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.
Primrose School of West Pearland 713.436.0404 | PrimroseWestPearland.com
CONTRIBUTORS
F E B R U A RY 2013 I VOLUME 4 I NUMBER 3
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COLUMNS 10
FOCUS ON FINANCE With Investments, Diversifying Is Key
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FOCUS ON COMMUNITY On the Go
29
HIGH SCHOOL HOT SHOT Colton Tadlock: Developing Character and Leadership
32
LIVING THE SWEET LIFE Challenge Number Two: Write Love on Your Heart!
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MEDICAL & BUSINESS Dina Holleron. Photo by Lana Rawlinson Photography.
COVER STORY 6
HOME TRANSFORMATIONS: DESIGNING WITH DINA Meet Pearland’s own “Design Diva” Dina Holleron. Dina absolutely loves transforming home interiors into HGTV worthy spaces while retaining clients’ style and comfort.
9 30
RIBBON CUTTINGS
29
BUSINESS BRIEFS Pearland Chamber Hosts Day in Austin
NEWSWORTHY 12
32
Brian Covault Texas Community Referral Network Page 14 Courtney Bajusz Writer Page 24
Sally Mercer Out & About in the Heart of Pearland Page 26 Nick Nicholson Entertainment Editor Page 28
Linda K. Eaves Writer Page 29 Alisa Murray Alisa Murray Photography Page 32
BRAZORIA COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY Reaches Out and Saves Lives
FILM REVIEW F E AT U R E S 15
24
HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS Find your home and make it your own! These resources will help you turn your house into your dream home. STUDENT OUTREACH KEEPS STUDENTS ON DIPLOMA TRACK Since 2007, Pearland Independent School District’s Student Outreach and Attendance Office has been helping at-risk students change their minds about the value of education.
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BEAUTIFUL CREATURES
IN EVERY ISSUE 4
PUBLISHER’S PREVIEW
12
SEEN ON THE SCENE Photos from Pearland charitable events
26
OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART OF PEARLAND A few snapshots of people, places and happenings
31
ON THE COVER: Dina Holleron Photo by Lana Rawlinson Photography
COMMUNITY EVENTS Fun events the whole family will enjoy pearland
magazine • March 2013
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EMERGENCIES A R E U N P R E D I C T A B L E . YOUR CHOICE O F A N E R S H O U L D N ’ T B E .
Emergencies are never convenient. Neither is deciding where to go for emergency care. When choosing where to go, choose St. Luke’s Community Emergency Center – Pearland. This free-standing emergency department of St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital has board-certified physicians who provide the care you may need. So, don’t wait for an emergency to find us. For more information, visit StLukesEmergency.com.
Community Emergency Center generated at BeQRious.com
11713 Shadow Creek Parkway Pearland, TX 77584 713-793-4600
P
ublisher’s Preview MARCH 2013 Vol. 4 No. 3
Dear Pearlanders,
EXECUTIVE PUBLISHERS Michael & Lisa Fredrickson
I am so excited to be the new
E D I T O R- I N - C H I E F Patti Parish-Kaminski
publisher for Pearland Focus. I can’t
PUBLISHER Susie Ainsworth
believe that it has almost been two years since I began working with this
AC C O U N T E X E C U T I V E S Melissa Huckabee Jessica Kij
wonderful family-owned company. It is my pleasure and honor to be a part of such professional and award winning publications. Pearland Focus has been publishing in Pearland for
Pearland Focus publisher Susie Ainsworth.
three years – 2013 started our fourth year. Jessica Kij has been the publisher for Pearland from the beginning and has been a wonderful role model for me as I take over the reins. Pearland Focus is growing. As you know, we are now monthly. As we grow and continue to support local businesses and people, we need your help. I’m calling all Pearland writers. If you like to write as a hobby or are a professional writer, we need you! If you like to be out and about in Pearland and know what’s going on in our community, we need you! If you are a mom, grandmother, aunt, uncle, father or grandfather who wants to share all of the awards and achievements of your children, we need you! Please submit items for our Out & About pages. We also want to partner with local businesses. We are everywhere, because we are your source for information covering people, places and happenings. Pearland Focus is the voice of Pearland. When you have an event, invite us to it! If you have something going on with your business, send me a press release. We offer so many avenues for residents and business owners to share your information. We are community focused, and we want to hear from you!
CONTRIBUTORS Courtney Bajusz Brian Covault Linda K. Eaves Sally Mercer Alisa Murray Nick Nicholson A RT D I R E C T O R Grace Belleza GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Chris Hernandez Jesse McPeek C O M M U N I C AT I O N S C O O R D I NAT O R Sarah Greeson A D M I N I S T R AT I V E D I R E C T O R Erin Sanders PHOTOGRAPHER Lana Rawlinson Photography WEB DESIGNER Joey Belleza (Jobpagegraphics.com) INQUIRIES 281-690-4242
Send me an email, I’d love to hear about you!
TOLL FREE 1-888-430-7469
Happy spring, everyone!
E D I T O R IA L S U B M I S S I O N S editor@pearlandfocus.com
Susie Ainsworth Publisher
Published by
susie@pearlandfocus.com
ATTENTION COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS Submit your news and events to susie@pearlandfocus.com. pearland
magazine • March 2013
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4655 TECHNIPLEX DR. STE 400 STAFFORD , TX 77477 281-690-4242
WWW.PEARLANDFOCUS.COM Subscription requests are free to all Pearland and Friendswood addresses. Annual paid subscription of $25 is required outside the Pearland and Friendswood areas. Pearland Focus Magazine is published by absolutely! focus media, 4655 Techniplex Dr., Ste. 400, Stafford, TX 77477. Copyright © 2013 by absolutely! focus media. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Pearland Focus Magazine does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial, nor do the publishers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Pearland Focus Magazine welcomes editorial submissions from its readers.
713-436-3688
281-412-4777
713-433-5437
12015 Broadway St., Pearland, TX 77584
1820 Pearland Pkwy., Pearland, TX 77581
2430 County Rd. 90, Pearland, TX 77584
www.krkshadowcreekranch.com
www.kidsrkidspearland.com
www.krk13pearland.com
www.pearland
.com • March 2013
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COVER STORY
Photo by Lana Rawlinson Photography
By Susie Ainsworth
Shellie Davis and Dina Holleron work on a design project.
Home Transformations
Designing with Dina W
e have all watched the HGTV shows like Property Brothers, Love it or List it, Design on a Dime, Kitchen Cousins and now, Cousins on Call, and they make home renovations and upgrades seem so simple and easy that anyone can do them. But, the fact is, home remodeling jobs, whether it’s a kitchen, bathroom or a master bedroom, take both a long time to do and the right people to do them to ensure that your house turns out like the ones you see on HGTV. What we don’t see is the effort that goes into transforming those homes on shows off camera. It is significant. We have our own “Design Diva” right here in Pearland, someone who can change a room in your home within budget and make your jaw drop at the end of the project. She is Dina Holleron, owner of The Designer’s Niche. Dina has been an interior designer for 14 years, and she absolutely loves taking a space, improving and updating it and incorporating your style and comfort.
pearland
These statement chairs were already owned by the client, but she wanted to feature them in her home’s entry for pizzazz and a punch of color.
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“Too many people have called me after trying their own ‘as seen on HGTV’ designs, and they are very frustrated because they cannot seem to achieve the look they want, even with inspirational pictures and shows,” explained Dina. “Design goes deeper and is much more time consuming than a 30 minute interval on TV. It requires knowledge of scale, placement and use of color to achieve depth in a room along with lots of time and budgeting. That is what I’m trained to do on all levels, and we also have teams of people to help get the job done.” Dina graduated with honors from the Art Institute of Houston. You can see some of Dina’s most recent work in the Pearland/Houston area on both her Facebook page and on her website www.thedesignersniche.com. From her work, you will see Dina’s expertise as a designer and notice that her rooms look as good as the ones seen on HGTV.
Defining the Need Dina’s first priority is to listen to her client’s needs and budget. “I enjoy the challenge of making things work if the client asks me to, even if I don’t particularly love a piece,” she said. Dina recognizes that need for her client’s stamp on the room and tries to ensure that happens every time. “I hear too often that, designers will insist a client start from scratch, making them spend a lot more money than they ever planned, or the client’s personality is not in the finished composition of the room,” she explained. “I’ve personally inherited disgruntled clients like this and have managed to make their space theirs. I do not force my own design style on clients. I use my style to help enhance theirs.” All remodeling jobs require some money to accomplish their goals. To stay on budget, clients may have to pick and choose the most important items on a wish list. Another way to reduce a budget is to help out by painting walls or other tasks that the client can handle. “But, don’t take on jobs that are out of your capabilities; get the experts for the difficult jobs,” said Dina. Dina helps clients stay on budget by proposing items within her client’s level of spending, and she gives the client complete control over what they are ready to
Testimonials
What Dina Holleron’s Clients Say About
“W
orking with Dina was a great experience that relieved me from the stress of my move when I downsized. To know you have someone with the talent to work in your best interest was amazing, and she improved my home through her vision, talent and ability to arrange my existing furniture and accessories to make it warm, comfortable and beautiful. And, by doing all of the work herself, Dina was affordable. If additional items were needed to complete my décor, she bought it and gave me her discount price and travels around looking for the perfect piece. Dina saved me both time and money. I just cannot say enough about Dina and The Designer’s Niche. I would highly recommend Dina for any job you have. Every time someone comes to my little home, many compliments come with them!” – Wilma Couch
“D
ina comes into your home with such enthusiasm and love of her work. I’m not sure she even considers this a job at times. Her ‘can-do,’ positive attitude is so contagious! Dina used most of my own items but re-positioned them. That was incredible! She doesn’t concentrate on selling you her items; rather, she concentrates on being creative and has her own unique style of making your home look like a show home. One of the most remarkable techniques that she has is her ability to use paint colors, shading and stenciling to completely alter the look of your home. I continue to use Dina because of her experience, skill and creativity – she has a designer’s eye.” – Adrienne Davis
A client wanted to liven up her living room with high style. Dina used fabrics, color and furniture pieces to achieve this look. www.pearland
.com • March 2013
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For more information about Dina Holleron or The Designer’s Niche, call 281-323-3630 or visit www.thedesignersniche.com A client wanted to lighten and brighten her bedroom to make it highly transitional and elegant. Custom bedding and headboard were also created to accent the room.
purchase and when. She also said that the client is in control of the amount work she does for them, so they can budget her services into their project.
Comprehensive Services Dina’s services include complete décor and design, consulting by the hour, custom millwork, custom windows and upholstery, faux finishing for walls, ceilings, cabinets and furniture, new construction and remodeling specification, painting and handiwork services and one-day makeovers. “We do so many things that we are pretty evenly dispersed with remodels and updates both large and small, décor and drapery, and painting and faux,” she said. One of her favorite projects to do is one-day makeovers, which would be perfect for getting your home ready for a party. “They tend to be popular because
we can usually get a room decorated to at least 90 percent completion on a shopping spree, and some clients have so much stuff, they don’t need us to shop. We just stay at their home for the day and refresh everything they already own, making everything feel new.” In Dina’s experience, the most common rooms that are remodeled are kitchens and baths or powder baths with adding hardwood floors as a close second. “Times and styles change, and if something begins to look old and worn out, even if it’s still functional, it begins to feel undesirable,” Dina explained. “There are a lot of materials out there that look new and fresh that don’t cost a lot that give a home a fresh, 10-plus years of ‘newness,’ which in turn appeals to more people and adds value.” How can Dina help you? She has the resources to get any job you want done without you having to research everything yourself. She saves clients time and effort,
The Designer’s Niche refaced cabinet doors and added granite and fixtures to give this kitchen a fresh yet timeless feel.
so they can focus on what is most important for them. She can bring a team together who can transform an entire house or just one room. She can update your master bedroom, game room, family room or any room that needs attention. She can also update draperies or help with colors to make your home look amazing. In the end, when the project is complete and her clients are satisfied, it’s the relationship that Dina builds with clients that is most precious to her. “I want my clients to completely love their transformation, and I want them to feel like they had a blast working with me and know that I worked very hard for them.” Dina’s biggest compliment is referrals, which she gets often. But she also enjoys seeing “clients’ faces when they finally see a room pulled together. Their expressions are priceless to me. I love when they trust me to the end and are completely blown away with the results.”
A client wanted to transform her unused formal dining area into a cozy reading room that she could enjoy regularly. pearland
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BUSINESS BRIEFS
Thursday, January 10th Crimson Blue Tours and Travel www.crimsonbluetours.com
Recent Ribbon Cuttings
Thursday, January 10th Pho Ahn Asian Bistro 2705 Broadway, Suite 137, Pearland, TX 77581
Friday, January 11th Deep South Barrels 2817 Miller Ranch Road, Suite 333, Pearland, TX 77584
and the Jessicas. And the Victors, Michelles and Davids. We believe a bank is only as successful as the people it serves, so we make sure to put our customers first. If your current bank isn’t as considerate, consider a new bank.
11201 Broadway Pearland, TX 77584 5208 W. Broadway Pearland, TX 77581
www.pearland
.com • March 2013
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on
Provided by Texas First Bank By Jason Alderman
Finance With Investments, Diversifying Is Key
E
ver wonder why Mom and Pop stores sell wildly unrelated products side by side, like umbrellas and sunglasses, or Halloween candy and screwdrivers? Customers probably would never buy these items on the same shopping trip, right? That’s exactly the point. By diversifying their product offerings, vendors reduce the risk of losing sales on any given day, since people don’t usually buy umbrellas on sunny days or sunglasses when it rains. The same diversification principle also applies in the investment world, where it’s referred to as asset allocation. By spreading your assets across different investment classes (stock mutual funds, bonds, money market securities, real estate, cash, etc.), if one category tanks temporarily you may be at least partially protected by others. You must weigh several factors when determining how best to allocate your assets: Risk tolerance. This refers to your appetite for risking the loss of some or all of your original investment in exchange for greater potential rewards. Although higher-risk investments like stocks are potentially more profitable over the long haul, they’re also at greater risk for shortterm losses. Ask yourself, would you lose sleep investing in funds that might lose
money or fluctuate wildly in value for several years, or will you comfortably risk temporary losses in exchange for potentially greater returns? Time horizon. This is the expected length of time you’ll be investing for a particular financial goal. If you are decades away from retirement, you may be comfortable with riskier, more volatile investments. But if your retirement looms or you’ll soon need to tap college savings, you might not want to risk sudden downturns that could gut your balance in the short term. Diversification within risk categories. From a diversification standpoint, it’s not prudent to invest in only a few stocks. That’s why mutual funds are so popular: They pool money from many investors and buy a broad spectrum of securities. Thus, if one company in the fund does poorly, the overall impact on your account is lessened. Many people don’t have the expertise – or time – to build a diversified investment portfolio with the proper asset mix. That’s why most 401(k) plans and brokerages offer portfolios with varying risk profiles, from extremely conservative (e.g., mostly treasury bills or money market funds) to very aggressive (stock in smaller businesses or in developing countries). Typically, each portfolio is comprised of
various investments that combined reach the appropriate risk level. For example, one moderately conservative portfolio offered by Schwab consists of 50 percent interest-bearing bond funds, 40 percent stocks and 10 percent cash equivalents. Usually, the more aggressive the portfolio, the higher percentage of stocks it contains (i.e., higher risk/higher reward). 401(k) plans and brokerages. With these, you choose the fund closest to your planned retirement date and the fund manager picks Another possibility is the so-called “targeted maturity” or lifecycle funds offered by many an appropriate investment mixture. As retirement approaches, the fund is continually “rebalanced” to become more conservative. Although convenient, this one-sizefits-all approach may not suit your individual needs. For example, you may want to invest more – or less – aggressively, or may not like some of the funds included. These may seem like complicated concepts, but the Security and Exchange Commission’s publication, “Beginner’s Guide to Asset Allocation, Diversification and Rebalancing,” does a good job explaining them at www.sec.gov. This article is brought to you by a partnership between Visa and Texas First Bank and was authored by Jason Alderman, who directs Visa’s financial education programs. For more information, follow Texas First Bank on Facebook, Twitter and You Tube or visit us at www.texasfirstbank.com.
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magazine • March 2013
BUSINESSES
10
Marta Molina, M.D.
Mathews Ninan, M.D.
Family Medicine Friendswood
Family Medicine Pearland
Jason Wang, M.D. Family Medicine Friendswood
Leading vein clinic in southeast Texas Your veins should be amazing too. Know the common signs of vein disease: • Achiness, tiredness • Heaviness, soreness • Skin changes • Itchiness
Our newest dOctOrs will see yOu nOw. Memorial Hermann Medical Group is a uniquely advanced team of primary care doctors and specialists. Our singular focus is to practice evidence-based medicine while delivering the highest level of collaborative, quality patient-centered care. MHMG Pearland 3203 East Broadway Pearland, TX 77581 281.485.8876
MHMG Friendswood 1650-B East Winding Way Friendswood, TX 77546 281.996.7788
Visit mhmg.memorialhermann.org to watch videos of our doctors, and to schedule your appointment!
Examples of skin changes from vein disease
New Shadow Creek Location Now Open!
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As featured on Great Day Houston
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281.485.3828
www.mypearlandcosmeticdentist.com www.pearland
.com • March 2013
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S E E N on the Scene
Corks & Canvas Event Benefiting The Visual & Performing Arts in Pearland
Angie & Jazzlyn Vargas
Jake Ainsworth
Margo Green & Joan Moody
Sharon & Zachary Simmonds
Rayne & Kirra Randolph
Sue Allen
NEWSWORTHY
Brazoria County Humane Society Reaches Out and Saves Lives The Brazoria County Humane Society (BCHS) is a no-kill, non-profit animal rescue organization dedicated to saving animals. They receive no federal, state or local funds. They rely solely on donations, volunteers and foster families. Shirley Tinnin began rescuing animals in December 2004 and has assembled a small group of volunteers to help make BCHS work. There is also a network of foster families that house and care for some of BCHS animals. pearland
magazine • March 2013
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January 12, 2013 • Pearland Recreation Center
Fay & David Watson
Cindy Sosbee, Naomi Stevens, Peggy Paul, Phyllis Chaney & Mayor Tom Reid
Alison Klein
The animals in their adoption program come from death row at area kill animal shelters. They also take in animal cruelty/neglect cases. Many of the intake animals require costly medical care to restore them to health. To help cover these costs, they depend on the public for donations. Every shelter dog and cat has a story. Most animals in shelters are simply there because of a little bad luck, usually as a result of “people problems” like divorce, foreclosure and lifestyle changes. As you read this, thousands of dogs and cats of all breeds, sizes, ages and personalities are waiting for new homes to start a new chapter in their lives. Since the start of Brazoria County Humane Society, thousands of rescued animals have been adopted and placed in wonderful, loving homes. BCHS wants to continue their dedicated work but the economy has taken a toll on the organization and has made it difficult. There are a few key ways that you can help keep their cause and passion a reality: 1. Volunteer: this is the foundation of the organization. 2. Sponsor a pet. 3. Be a foster parent. 4. Donate monthly. Brazoria County Humane Society’s shelter is located at 6219 FM 1128 in Manvel. Visit www.brazoriacountyhumane.org or call 281-489-3000. Their off-site adoptions are held every Saturday and Sunday at Pearland’s Petsmart and Petco stores. BCHS’s motto is “Saving animal lives one adoption at a time.” They invite the public to get involved in any way they can. Please come by and visit the wonderful animals and see if that special pet is there awaiting you and your family.
www.pearland
Jimmie Sue Siptak & Nathan Reynolds
First Christian Academy Intelligence Plus Character...
OPEN HOUSE March 2nd, 11am-1pm Preregistration for 2013 -14 School Year
Registration Coupon
NCI Vendor!
No Registration Fee No Tuition 4th & 8th Wk PreK3-K & Private School (gr.1-12th)
pearland focus
Ella, Cynthia & Jenna Stanaland
the Goal of Education • Private, Non-denominational Accredited School located in the Heart of Pearland • Quality College Prep Curriculum & Small Classes, Degreed Teachers • Summer & Holiday Programs and Field Trips for all ages • Authorized to Issue I -20s for International Students
281-412-5182 4205 W. Broadway, Pearland, TX 77581 www.1stchristianacademy.net
.com • March 2013
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FOCUS ON COMMUNITY
By Brian Covault Founder and President of TCRN
On the Go
I
t seems like we are always on the go, and convenience plays a bigger part in our lives now more than ever before. In fact, we live in a world of “now.” The ability to get things quickly and when we want them holds more significance in our day-to-day activity. Because so many subscribe to the philosophy of “easier is better,” Texas Community Referral Network is answering the call.
Smart phones make up more than 70 percent of the cell phone market, and it is said that, within the next two years, nonsmart phones will no longer be manufactured. This predicted outcome is a result of low demand, the costs associated with manufacturing these phones and a shrinking market share. Everyone seems to be gravitating toward smart phones because of the vast amount of information they provide and all of the capabilities that go along with them. New to the Android and Apple app markets is the free, downloadable TCRN app!
pearland
Simply visit the app store, hit search, type in TCRN and then go. You can install your free app and have the power of TCRN at your fingertips 24/7. The app makes it quicker and easier for people to access the community website they live in or one of the other seven TCRN divisions. It is very easy to navigate and has a mobile version of our websites to display information in a better format for your handheld device. On the app you will find our dynamic Business Directories for each TCRN division, which feature only trusted businesses that you can rely and depend on to provide the best products and services. Browsing the directory is simple, as is browsing other features like community events. The TCRN Preferred Customer Card will be phased out because the free mobile app can be used to take advantage of Preferred Customer offers. No more worrying about stopping by somewhere to get a card, replacing a lost one or forgetting it. Now it will be right on your phone all of the time. You can get the app anytime, anywhere! For those who already have a card, cards will still be accepted, but TCRN businesses will no longer have the cards. New users can download the free app. To use your app and get unlimited savings that do not expire, each participating TCRN business has an “offer” icon next to their listing on the mobile app. Just click the business listing, click “offer” at the top of your screen, and the TCRN logo and the offer for that particular business is ready to show. You can even click “I just used this offer!” TCRN is committed to bringing you the best your community has to offer and connect you with savings opportunities and family events, making it fun and easy. Have a great March!
magazine • March 2013
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H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S
The Buzz On Interest Rates An exciting secret is spreading like wildfire throughout the housing market. This secret has prompted many perspective buyers to take interest in purchasing homes that were not options before, all because of their price point. The secret is that interest rates have dropped to a historical low. Now, qualified buyers are able to purchase their dream home at a very attractive rate. These historically low prices will benefit those who decide to invest in this wonderful opportunity. Homeowners have a tremendous advantage. The money received from selling their homes could prove to be very prosperous for them. This money can be used as an investment to purchase an exclusive property. Regrettably, some believe that they are losing when they sell their home, but in fact they are winning. This approach gives the seller an opportunity to be in the perfect position to purchase a better home with a much lower interest rate. Furthermore, none have guaranteed that these low rates will remain. This knowledge has alerted many aggressive buyers to invest. These impressive interest rates coupled with Louis Vargas’ successful sales techniques have given buyers a unique opportunity. Vargas works tirelessly to ensure his client’s expectations are exceeded. To find out more about how Louis Vargas can help you buy your dream home or sell your current home, call ReMax Top Realty at 713-876-1706. Don’t miss this opportunity!
SOLD IT! RECEIVE $500 IN CASH if your home does not sell in 90 days
• One hour design and staging consultation at no cost to you • Professional Photography and Videography • Custom Brochures and Flyers of your Home • Custom Website Designed for your Listing Foreclosure Specialist Call for Foreclosure Listings
Louis Vargas
713.876.1706 lvargas@remax.net www.pearland
.com • March 2013
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Advertorial
H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S Five Star Floors
Named Best Pest Control Company 2010 & 2011 by Pearland Journal
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Protecting Your Most Valuable Investment A termite is an insect with six legs and a three segmented body: a head, thorax and abdomen. When an infested piece of wood is broken open, you will see what looks like a maggot with legs. Termites can be categorized into two groups by their nesting sites. The most common here is the earthdwelling termites that make tunnels in the ground or build tubes above the earth, called subterranean termites. Termites are most abundant in the south and southwest parts of the country. The Gulf Coast is known as the “termite belt.” Since termites try to avoid light and open air spaces, termites and the destruction they cause can be undetected. Termites destroy over five billion dollars in property annually, which equates to over two million homes across the U.S. Termites are destructive because
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they live long lives, their colonies are selfrepeating, and they have a constant supply of food. Subterranean termite season begins in March, which means it’s time to have your home checked. Conducive conditions for termites to infest buildings include: • Wood to ground contact • Foundation cracks • Uneven drainage • High landscaping covering slab • Debris against the house • Joints between porches and foundations • Pipes and insulation By inspecting your home or property at least once a year, you can hopefully prevent costly damage. Set up an appointment for Killum Pest Control to check on your most valuable asset- your home! Contact Eric Melass at contact@ killum.com or 888-297-9993.
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Your home says a lot about you, and your floors are the stage where your family’s life plays out. What do your floors say about you? At Five Star Floors, helping you select the perfect flooring is a passion. “When deciding on flooring, it’s important to consider your lifestyle,” said owner Mike El Kilani. “If your children have left home, you might not want the same floor as a couple who’s just starting their family.” Many things should be considered. Do you want to make a dramatic statement in your foyer or have a tranquil look in your bedroom? Are you looking for the permanence of stone for your outdoor kitchen? Where should the carpet end and the hardwood floor begin? What about your tub surround in the powder room? What will it cost? Whether your design ideas are etched in stone or just a general notion of what you like, whether you’re renovating or building from scratch, the experts at Five Star Floors will take time to listen to your ideas. They will ask questions about your needs, your vision and your budget then present you with choices. Finally, they will follow through with quality workmanship and attention to detail and back it all up with their own one-year installation warranty on top of the manufacturer’s guarantees. “Customer service is our hallmark,” Mike said. “We know you have a choice when it comes to flooring companies. That’s why we go the extra mile to make sure we sell you a floor you can love now and for years to come at a price you can feel good about later.” Bring your dreams and let the Five Star team help you make them a reality. “We’ve been told that we pamper our customers,” Mike said. “Once someone comes in with an idea, we search local design centers until we find all the choices they might like. Then, we walk with them through the design process.” For more information, call 832-736-9595 or visit www.fivestarfloors.com. See ad on Inside Back Page.
H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S Things are Replaceable, You are Not Treating Customers with Care and Respect A-Better Plumbing Company, locally owned and operated, is guided by one key business factor: “Servicing customers as if they will be our long term client.” That is why when a customer calls for the first or the tenth time, A-Better Plumbing Company treats them with the same care and respect. They believe that every time they have contact with the public, they are placing their name and reputation on the line. So what does this mean to you as a potential customer? It means that you will receive the fairest pricing for the services that you require, you will be dealing with qualified and licensed individuals and you will be able to count on a timely completion of services promised. Just as you trust your doctor for your health needs and condition, A-Better Plumbing Company wants customers to trust them with their plumbing needs. Here are some tips A-Better Plumbing Company gives residents: Water – Keep your water and gas service line entries watered to protect from cracks, especially during drought conditions. Irrigation Systems – All backflow preventers should be tested annually to avoid cross contamination. Efficiency – Test your toilet tank water by adding red food coloring to check for any leaks, ensuring its efficiency and saving you money. A-Better Plumbing Company received the 2011 and 2012 Angie’s List Super Service Award. For more information on services or if you need a free estimate, call 281692-1684 or find A-Better Plumbing Company on Angie’s List. See ad on page 23.
Most of us readily purchase insurance to cover our cars and our homes. But what about insuring ourselves? Life insurance is probably the most overlooked insurance product there is and by far the most important when the need arises. Read on to learn the most common reasons we hear why people think they don’t need life insurance, and why it may be wise to think again. I have it through my employer. Be sure to read your policy. Some employer provided policies cover only accidental death or may have very low limits of coverage. And, if you find yourself unemployed at some point, you may lose your coverage altogether. Life insurance is typically less expensive and easier to obtain if you’re healthy. Purchasing permanent life insurance can alleviate the worries of being tied to a job to maintain your coverage and more importantly, maintain your insurability. I’m single or my kids are grown now. Singles and empty nesters often think they don’t need life insurance, and sometimes they’re right. But if you have people who depend on you or don’t want to burden anyone with your final expenses, you should consider it. It’s always difficult to lose someone you love – financial worries make it worse. Although life insurance can’t replace us, it can help our loved ones cope while going through a difficult time and help those left behind maintain the family’s quality of life. For more information on Craig Slater Agency, contact 281-997-7575.
You’ve got a family doctor and a family attorney. But do you have a family insurance professional? The time to choose the right insurance professional is before you need one. Call Craig today and experience his unique brand of personalized service that has made him one of Pearland’s leading agents.
Craig Slater Agency 281-997-7575 www.pearland
.com • March 2013
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Advertorial
H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S
• Residential / Commercial • Offices • Commercial Lawn Services • Complete Floor Care • Commercial Windows • Extensive Training & Quality Control
2010 Recipient of Blue Ribbon Award
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(US Chamber of Commerce) (Pearland Chamber of Commerce) Members of Pearland & Alvin Manvel Chamber of Commerce
281.489.8614 $30 OFF FIRST CLEANING $20 OFF $10 OFF
2nd Cleaning Referral Fee
With Coupon Only
A & A Cleaning Services When Mona Chavarria first started A & A Cleaning Services, her mission was clear: provide quality residential cleaning services that exceed customer expectations. Almost fifteen years later, A & A has expanded its wide range of services to include residential cleaning services, commercial cleaning services, janitorial supplies, professional commercial lawn care services, window cleaning and carpet cleaning for both residential and commercial businesses. Locally owned and operated, A & A Cleaning Services is highly invested in the Pearland community. “I believe it is important to give back to the community that has given so much to me,” says owner Mona. “That’s why I give so much of my time and money to various local organizations in community service.” One of the many organizations that A & A supports is the Adult Reading Center in Pearland, which provides instruction to adults with low literacy skills. Mona is a board member and a past Chairwoman of the Annual Red Hat Literacy Luncheon, which raises money for the center. A & A Cleaning was awarded the Business of the Year by the Pearland Chamber of Commerce. In 2010, A & A received the prestigious Blue Ribbon Small Business Award from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. A & A was recently presented a resolution by the State of Texas House of Representatives for demonstrating the degree to which a successful business can make a positive difference in the community it serves. To find out more about A & A, visit www.aacleaningservices.com.
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HomeTown Bank: Where Dreams Are Built Are you looking to purchase a new home? Is it time to refinance? Are you dreaming of a home renovation? With money to loan and the will to help, the best place to borrow is right at home! At HomeTown Bank, dreams are built — one family at a time. HomeTown Bank offers an extensive variety of loans to fit your needs including commercial property, single family homes, condo loans, construction loans, property-rehabilitation loans, investment properties, second homes, home equity loans, home improvement loans, lot loans and a first-time homebuyers program that only requires a 10 percent down payment. Customers can always count on experiencing the advantage of local focus that a community bank takes pride in embracing. All loan decisions, underwriting and servicing aspects of the loan are maintained right here, close to home. “Other banks make their decisions about loans, for example, in headquarters far from the people they serve, but HomeTown bankers make those decisions based on their knowledge and needs of the nearby community,” said President and CEO, Jimmy Rasmsussen. Our newest branch in Pearland is open daily to answer any questions you may have about the loan process. Sean Murphy, Vice President and Branch Manager, began his banking career in 2003. Donna Rizzo, a veteran of over three decades in banking, has just recently joined the HomeTown team as Vice President. HomeTown Bank is a member of FDIC and is an Equal Housing Lender. Visit HomeTown Bank today at 2651 Pearland Parkway. Call 281-4128000 or visit www.htbna.com and discover the HomeTown Advantage!
H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S
C op OM en E I a N Ho & g new TO e CO me t a ac D FF Tow FRE cou AY, EE n E nt, M Ban UG k !*
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(281) 412-8000
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Diane Mireles Tapped as Manager of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gary Greene Pearland Office Diane Mireles, a top-producing Realtor with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gary Greene’s Friendswood office, has been tapped as manager at the company’s Pearland office. “We are pleased to have Diane Mireles lead the team at our Pearland office. She is successful, experienced and has a solid reputation,” said Mark Woodroof, partner with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gary Greene. With 20 years of success in residential real estate, Mireles said she is looking forward to her new position and working with the Pearland real estate agents. “My goal for the
If you’re looking to buy a home or sell your property, we invite you to visit us online at www.GaryGreene.com or give us a call. Diane Mireles
Pearland Branch Manager
281.819.9200
2251 County Road 94, Suite 101 Pearland, TX 77584
Continued on page 21 www.pearland
.com • March 2013
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Advertorial
H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S
Full Service Interior Design Showroom Brown Interiors: More Than Just a Home Furnishings Showroom
• Furniture • Home Furnishings/Accessories • Faux Painting
• Interior Design Consultations • Finish Selections • Space Planning in Remodels • Color Selections
281.412.5305 • www.browninteriors.com 2640 E. Broadway, Ste. 114 • Pearland, Texas 77581
Need an Update or an Upgrade? Wondering what to do about your tired old flooring? In need of a fresh new look for your home? Floor Gallery of Pearland has the answers! With 20 years of experience, Floor Gallery of Pearland can show you how to improve the look of your home. Floor Gallery of Pearland opened its doors in the summer of 2005 with the vision of providing the highest quality flooring materials at an affordable price. Floor Gallery is a place where you can explore a vast array of carpet, ceramic, granite, laminate and wood flooring options in a comfortable and informative environment. Whatever your flooring fantasy, release your inhibitions and let Floor Gallery take you there. Floor Gallery can help you start every day off in style. Let your inner chef explore new cooking techniques on our fascinating array of granite and Silestone countertops. Cozy up to the heartwarming elegance of beautiful hardwood floors, or snuggle up on down-soft carpets. Imagine escaping to your spa bath, newly restyled in natural stone or expertly installed porcelain tile. If your deepest desires send you spiraling in the direction of a new staircase, then wind your way to Floor Gallery at 10621 Broadway St. Suite 109 in Pearland next to Panera Bread Company. For more information, call 713-436-7051 or visit www.floorgallerypearland.com.
Advertorial
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Brown Interiors provides a complete interior design and home decorating service for Pearland/Houston residential properties. Their services save you time and money, because all of the stress and work of sourcing and organizing your project is taken care of by the designers at Brown Interiors. Brown Interiors specializes in unique, charming accessories and beautiful, custom designed rooms. Their goal is to work with you to create an atmosphere that reflects your personal style and respects your budget. With long-established relationships with 75 vendors, Brown Interiors chooses only to work with manufactures that are reliable, produce quality product and offer premium collections of home goods. Brown Interiors invites you to stop by their local showroom to be exposed to a wide selection of lighting, furniture and home accessories that will transform your home or business into a space that is uniquely yours. Services include new home construction consultation, faux painting, custom draperies, space planning, finish selections in remodels, bedding and home furniture and furnishings. Clients who want superior service and quality products choose Brown Interiors for all their design needs. Discover Brown Interiors, where design is more than a process; it’s a unique experience. For more information, visit www.browninteriors. com or call 281-412-5305.
H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S
Floor Gallery Carpet
1.69 sq. ft.
$
Installed 1/2” padding, moving furniture and takeaway old carpet included.
Granite Counter Tops
33 sq. ft
$
Hand Scraped Wood Floors
4.99 sq. ft.
$
Installed with Molding
Laminate Floors Starting at
2.99 sq. ft.
$
Wood
4.99 sq. ft.
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3/8” Installed All Trims Included
Installed All Trims Included
Certified Installers & Free In-Home Estimates
Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed Immediate Installation & References Available
(includes 1/2” bullnose) FREE stainless steel Mon - Sat sink with 60 sq. 10am - 7pm feet or more.
713.436.7051
Sun 12pm - 5pm
Tile
3.49 sq. ft.
$
Installed. 12x12, 13x13.
10621 Broadway St., Ste. 109 • Pearland at 288 & 518 (Next to Panera Bread)
Continued from page 19 office is expansion. I have seasoned agents who are dedicated and successful at what they do,” Mireles said, “and I’ll be looking for more team members who can help us increase our market share in the area.” Mireles said the office will focus on building relationships in the community and raising awareness of the office as the place to go for acquiring new properties, selling homes and delivering superior service. The Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gary Greene Pearland office is located at 2251 County Road 94, Ste.101 in Pearland, and their phone number is 281-7232888. Mireles and her team can be reached at 281-819-9200. For more information about Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gary Greene, visit www.GaryGreene.com.
Celebrating
35
Years of Service
Protect your most precious assets and discover
The Mercer difference.
281.485.2471 • MercerInsuranceAgency.com
Auto • Home • Life • Business • Recreational
New Horizons Roofing Specialists: Committed to Excellence New Horizons Roofing Specialists, a local family-owned company, has been servicing the roofing needs of Pearland and surrounding area residents and business owners for 18 years. They have earned a reputation over the years as one of the best roofing companies in the area. With an experienced, professional staff who is fully-insured and manufacturer’s certified, New Horizons Roofing Specialists is qualified to address any roofing issue. Proudly specializing in hard to find roof leak repairs, New Horizons Roofing Specialists offers guaranteed quality products and service. They are committed to getting your Continued on page 22 www.pearland
.com • March 2013
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Advertorial
H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S Continued from page 21
We Specialize in Hard to Find Leaks New Horizons Roofing Specialists Serving the community Since 1996
Certified Contractor
Fully Insured
Re-Roofs New Construction Emergency Repairs Maintenance
FREE DAMAGE INSPECTION & ESTIMATES
281.489.1717
Pearland, Texas 77581 • www.nhrsroofing.com
roofing project done right the first time and to provide quality work, so they often develop long-term relationships with customers. New Horizons Roofing Specialists provides all labor, material, tools, equipment and the proper insurance for all roof repairs, re-roofs and roof maintenance. Services include tear-offs/re-roofs/ new installations, repairs and maintenance, replacement/installation of skylights and solar power ventilation, repairs/installation of siding-plank and gutters and 24/7 emergency service. New Horizons Roofing Specialists is a member of the Better Business Bureau, Pearland Chamber of Commerce, Roofing Contractors Association of Texas and GAF Certified Weather Stopper Roofing Contractor. Let a representative from New Horizons Roofing Specialists come meet with you and show you how a commitment to excellence has earned them a fantastic reputation as one of the best
Your New Outdoor Living Room! Patio Covers • Outdoor Kitchens • Screened Porches Decorative Patios • Sunrooms • And More!
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281-265-1994 TexasCustomPatios.com Advertorial
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Email: lisa@fortbendfocus.com
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H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S roofing companies in the area. Call New Horizons Roofing Specialists today at 281-489-1717 to schedule your free, no obligation roof damage inspection and estimate.
Sergio Reyes Law Office is a Pearland general practice law firm serving Brazoria, Galveston and Harris counties. Sergio Reyes, Jr., has been in the private practice of law since 1992. Prior to starting his practice, Reyes was an Assistant Regional Counsel for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. While in private practice, he served as Assistant County Attorney in Matagorda County and was appointed as Associate Municipal Judge for the City of Bay City. From time to time Reyes was appointed as Special Judge to preside over the Matagorda County Court. His experience in public service as well as private practice has served to provide experience in dealing with different areas of the law. Areas of practice include: • Criminal Law • Personal Injury (Accidents) • Family Law • Immigration • Will and Probate Licensed in 1991, Sergio Reyes, Jr., has over 21 years experience handling legal matters in Brazoria, Matagorda, Galveston and Harris Counties. Sergio Reyes Law Office prides themselves in always keeping their client’s best interest in mind and going the extra mile to procure the best outcome for clients. Let Sergio Reyes Law Office help you with your legal concerns. Their job is to give you peace of mind while dealing with overwhelming legal issues. Sergio Reyes Law Office is conveniently located at 3528½ E. Broadway Street in Pearland, across from the old Pearland High School. Call 281-4853600 to schedule an appointment.
A-Better Plumbing Company
“Serving and saving your community for 19 years”
Full service plumbing company commercial and residential
• Repair, new construction (residential & commercial) • Water heater sales and installation • Free estimates, no trip charge • Complimentary water heater check-up with any service call
281-692-1684
$25 off
ANY SERVICE CALL
Pearland Focus
Sergio Reyes Law Office: Helping with Legal Matters Since 1992
Licensed & insured, MPL#18439
SERGIO REYES, JR. ATTORNEY AT LAW
Serving our clients’ legal needs for over 20 years.
• Criminal • Personal Injury • Family • Immigration • Wills Attorney Sergio Reyes, Jr. with his staff.
281-485-3600 Not Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. www.pearland
Fax: 281-485-5553 • E-mail: reyesatty@att.net 3528 1/2 E. Broadway, Pearland, TX 77581
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Advertorial
Student Outreach Keeps Students on
Diploma Track By Courtney Bajusz
Susan Aguilar, a student helped by Student Outreach, accepts her diploma during a graduation ceremony at the PACE Center in May 2012. Photo by Courtney Bajusz.
T
he numbers speak for themselves: A high school completion rate increased from 94.1 to 97.4 percent. Approximately $500,000 was saved in classroom funding through increased attendance. More than 1,000 student conferences were held and nearly 500 homes were visited in 2011 and 2012 to reach at-risk students. But, the results are far more than figures on a page. The 563 recovered students represented by these percentages and dollars – students helped by Pearland Independent School District’s Student Outreach and Attendance Office – now have the chance to land solid jobs and secure promising futures. Established in 2007, Student Outreach has not only turned students’ lives around but has also freed administrators and teachers to do what they do best: focus on classroom instruction. “Students win because they are learning. Teachers win because they are teaching. And parents win because their children will be on the path to graduation and ultimate success in life,” Susan Holloway, Student Outreach coordinator, said. How does Student Outreach help Pearland ISD? Because Texas school funding
is tied to daily attendance, schools win through financial stability. “And the community wins by having access to an educated workforce,” Holloway said.
A National and Local Challenge According to the Alliance for Excellent Education, about 7,000 students nationwide drop out of school every day. Without a diploma in hand, these individuals will earn about $260,000 less than a high school graduate in their lifetime. Not only does dropping out impact a student’s career potential, but it also impacts society. The impact of dropouts trickles down to every student at every desk. In Texas, school budgets are based on average daily attendance, and schools with low attendance receive less money for classroom needs. Who are these at-risk students? Often, they are teens who have difficulty transitioning to high school or simply students who are disengaged socially and academically. Whatever the case, they don’t see the long-term rewards of completing their high school education before earning a paycheck. pearland
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A Mission to Remove Barriers Student Outreach summarizes its mission in four words: “Don’t let students leave.” It supports student engagement and academic success by working with campuses to monitor attendance – one of the clearest early signs of at-risk students. “Disengagement starts in middle school, but we look at attendance beginning in elementary,” Holloway said. After observing telltale frequent absences and/or failing grades, Holloway and her crew of three – Anthony Vereen, Robert Galan and Robin Berryhill – collaborate with counselors and other school staff to discover the root of the disengagement. The reasons for disengagement are as diverse as students themselves. Sometimes students need clothes, school supplies, tutoring intervention or even a tank of gas to get to school. Recently, the team took turns driving to and from Rosenberg, transporting a student to school to earn her last remaining credits. In some cases, students may drop out to support a financially strapped family. “They see the short-term reward – earning money now – rather than what it
means long-term not to earn a diploma,” Holloway said. Homelessness also plays into the picture. In 2011-12 alone, Student Outreach reached out to approximately 113 homeless and unaccompanied Pearland students who needed the “four R’s”: reading, writing, arithmetic and a roof. Once critical needs are met, barriers to attendance are often removed as well. “We use different methods to reach different students. We take all the barriers away that prevent students from attending and finishing school,” Holloway said.
Door-to-Door Recovery Student Outreach is unique in that it combines homeless education, attendance and dropout prevention/recovery under one roof. The team’s efforts compare to those of Houston ISD’s Grads Within Reach program, which sends out community members each fall to visit potential dropouts at their homes. Unlike HISD, however, Student Outreach Office staff visit homes themselves, building relationships with students and their families. The search often begins by contacting community members, other school districts and law enforcement agencies to find the at-risk students. Crisscrossing Pearland in a district van, the team visits homes to check on students who have missed school frequently. They also look for students out and about in the community from 9 am to 2 pm – daytime curfew. In 2011-12, Student Outreach conducted more than 1,000 student conferences and nearly 500 home visits, mostly within the 180-day school calendar. During that time, the team also participated in 100 court hearings. The hearings, another dropout prevention tool, address students who fail to attend and parents who contribute to their absence. According to the state’s compulsory attendance law, “failure to attend school” means absence on 10 or more days (or parts of days) within six months, or three or more days (or parts of days) within four weeks. After a court hearing, the local justice of the peace may order attendance, counseling, parenting workshops or other measures for students and parents. “We use court as an intervention resource. In some
situations, it even assists with runaways as a legal method of getting students to return,” Holloway said.
Faces of Success Although Student Outreach’s intervention methods vary, the individual stories often have the same ending: success. Mickenzie Rapp is one such success story. During her senior year at Pearland High School (PHS) in 2009-10, Mickenzie was facing trouble at home because of her parents’ divorce. At her wit’s end, she decided to quit school and run away. Her grandparents, living in Florida at the time, intervened. “We picked her up, but we had no idea what to do, nobody to help us,” Don Rapp, Mickenzie’s grandfather, said. “We were just lost. I told her, ‘You have to finish. You can’t get anywhere without a high school education.’” Directionless, they wound up in Student Outreach, where Holloway suggested the PLATO® (Programmed Logic for Automated Teaching Operations) credit recovery program, a challenging but flexible computer option for students needing to earn their last few credits. The Rapps bought a home in Pearland, and Mickenzie dived headfirst into PLATO®, supported throughout by Student Outreach and PHS staff. In spring 2010, she earned her diploma with the rest of her class. “Without the program, Kenzie would probably be on the street. Student Outreach has been a life changer for us,” her grandfather said.
Now living with her grandparents in Florida, Mickenzie has earned a community college license in daycare work and been working at a daycare for the last year. “Thank you for putting me on the program and helping me graduate. If I didn’t have a diploma, it would be hard for me to get a job,” Mickenzie said. Zachary Novark, another at-risk student, shuffled from home to home after starting his senior year at PHS. After a number of unfortunate events, Zachary found himself at the home of Advanced Academics director Margo Gigee and her husband. Gigee referred him to Student Outreach, and together Gigee and Holloway helped Zachary get school clothes and new glasses. A competitor on PHS’s Academic Decathlon team, Zachary continued to take regular and Advanced Placement courses, bumping up his grades to mostly A’s and B’s during his final semester. He graduated in June 2011. Today, Zachary has completed his freshman year at the University of Houston and is planning to become a high school history teacher. “I’m exceptionally grateful for all Pearland ISD did to help me through admittedly one of the hardest years of my life. My diploma means a lot to me, because it represents monumental effort put forth not just by myself but by several Pearland ISD employees. These individuals are dedicated to providing educational opportunities to every student in the district, even those who have fallen off the beaten path,” he said.
Mission Possible
As members of the Pearland ISD Student Outreach team, Robert Galan, Susan Holloway and Anthony Vereen help to keep students engaged in school. Photo by Exie Rosas. www.pearland
.com • March 2013
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Student Outreach measures its success not by the miles added to the van’s odometer but by interventions with students like Mickenzie and Zachary – interventions that have motivated students to return to class, engage in learning and embrace a brighter future. Over the last five years, hours of hard work have resulted in 563 at-risk students deciding to complete their education, choosing diplomas over dropout status. For Holloway, changing minds begins with reaching hearts. “The kids are our customers. We are only as successful as our students,” she said.
OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART
PEARLAND
Barbara Mercer and Dale Pillow enjoyed a Sunday afternoon by playing Bunco with dozens of other ladies for the annual Bunco event hosted by the Women in Leadership Society of Pearland.
Dawson High School’s Lauren Hubbard recently won a $7,500 Dr. Pepper scholarship by creating a video that included a Dr. Pepper bottle along with her career goals. As one of five finalists in the competition, Lauren traveled to North Carolina for the finalist competition at the ACC Championship Bowl, where each student threw footballs from five yards away into an eightfoot Dr. Pepper can. Although Hubbard did not win the finalist competition, the scholarship committee tripled her award because judges were impressed with her video, which showcases her work with the DHS Eagle Television program and her dreams of becoming a news anchor. Pictured is Lauren with her mother, Mary Hubbard.
Professional Women Business Club held its social at Panera Bread Company this past January. On hand were Mary Margaret Eberhart, Kirra Randolph, Kristin Novilla, Patrice Thurston, Susan Chapman, Renita Scroggins, Sally Mercer, Vickie Elizardo and Mary Yost.
Mardi Gras: Bunco on the Bayou was the theme for Women in Leadership Society’s January 20th Bunco event. These women spared no expense to get into the spirit. Contest winners were Robbie Crump, Yvonne Guy, Carole Durham, Sandi Miller, Julia Rhodes, Sarah Deterling, Mindy Jo James and Terri Turbeville.
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The Pearland Lady Oilers Varsity Basketball team went undefeated in the 2012 Lady Gander Tip-Off Classic in Baytown. Great job Lady Oilers! Pictured are Jasmine Butler, Elyse Bell, LaNeetra Guillory, Savannah Kuon, Kaila Chizer, Head Coach Donna Vacek, Sierra Morish, Stacey Barnett, Alexis Rodriguez, Journey Hawkins, Taylor James, Assistant Coach Andre Stokes, Miranda LeJune, Chelsea Cervantes, Keara Hudnall and Nikki Valencia.
The Pearland Lady Oilers Junior Varsity basketball team took first place in the Sam Rayburn Junior Varsity Tournament in January. They defeated Baytown Sterling in the championship game 52-24. Pictured are Coach Victoria Robinson, Alyssa Nicholas, Payton Long, Meredith Bell, Alyssa Denham, Ashley Draper, Dara Hoffpauir, Shelby Moore, Ibe Ugo, Loreal Preze, Kayla Copeland and Emareya Lyles.
The Silverlake Wal-Mart, a Campus Education Improvement Council business partner, recently awarded $1,500 to Challenger Elementary through its Local Community Contribution Grant Program. The funds will help update playground equipment. Pictured are Wal-Mart Manager David Frederick, Principal Lisa Nelson and Assistant Principal Brooke Newell.
SUBMIT NEWSWORTHY
E-mail editor@pearlandfocus.com. Include story and a photo with complete names of people pictured.
www.pearland
.com • March 2013
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FILM REVIEW By Nick Nicholson
R
ichard LaGravenese is back in the director’s chair helming the supernatural love story Beautiful Creatures, the first novel from the best-selling series of the same name by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl. The film opens up with its teen star, Ethan Wate (Alden Ehrenreich), suffering from the same recurring dream. A young woman is waiting for him on a Civil War battlefield. As he desperately attempts to reach her, he is killed by a lightning bolt crack ala Groundhog Day…over and over again. The danger of this strange dream world, however, is preferable to Ethan’s waking existence in Gatlin, South Carolina, a small, conservative Southern town that hasn’t caught up to the 21st century. It is a place where nothing ever
changes and nothing ever happens. Trapped at home with a father who has completely withdrawn since the sudden death of Ethan’s mother, Ethan yearns for a life he can only read about in books. But Ethan’s mundane world is shaken with the arrival of Lena Duchannes (Alice Englert), the beautiful and enigmatic niece of Macon Ravenwood (Jeremy Irons), the reclusive owner of gothic Ravenwood Manor. Ethan finds himself immediately drawn to Lena, even though destruction seems to inexplicably follow her and it becomes apparent that she is a Caster, with powers beyond her control. The town, led by conservative Mrs. Lincoln (Emma Thompson), wants her banished. Even Gatlin’s all-knowing librarian, Amma (Viola Davis), is afraid history may repeat itself – a history of family secrets and a curse that looms for Lena – as she approaches her 16th birthday. It is that time when a Caster is chosen by the forces of either the Light or the Dark. But Lena’s fate may already be sealed by the curse that draws both herself and Ethan into a tangled web of spells and peril from which there may be no escape.
Alden Ehrenreich as Ethan Wate and Alice Englert as Lena Duchannes in Beautiful Creatures.
At first glance, Beautiful Creatures seems quite similar to a number of the tweener film series that have hit the big screen, most notably that of the Twilight genre. Yes, there are similarities, but one could come to expect that with a film focusing on young requited love. The direction of the film and pacing was sufficient, but what stood out more than anything was the chemistry of the cast. With the leads being such young performers (Ehrenreich and Englert), it makes perfect sense to throw the brilliant Jeremy Irons into the fray. The cinematography is really quite lush, and I found the action sequences to be more than enough to keep those in the audience interested. The story is fresh and should make for the perfect date movie.
Beautiful Creatures Starring: Alden Ehrenreich, Alice Englert & Jeremy Irons Director: Richard LaGravenese Company: Warner Now Showing: In Local Theatres MPAA Rating: PG-13 Grade: AJeremy Irons as Macon Ravenwood and Viola Davis as Amma.
Photos Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures.
Nick Nicholson is the Film and Entertainment Critic for CNN Radio, the Fort Bend Star and absolutely! focus media. In addition, his reviews can be seen and heard in numerous other print/media outlets in Texas and Oklahoma. Mr. Nicholson is in great demand as a speaker to both public and civic organizations on the subject of film and the entertainment industry. He is the co-founder of the Houston Film Critics Society and is currently the President of the organization. pearland
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High School HOT SHOT
By Linda K. Eaves
Colton Tadlock: Developing Character and Leadership
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n o t l o C
olton Tadlock serves as company first sergeant (C/1SG) for the Pearland High School Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC) and has won many awards. Colton has known since junior high that he wanted to go into the military, so joining JROTC seemed like a natural fit for him. Colton is most proud of the first place he earned in the Cadet Challenge Medal, an annual physical fitness competition among all the cadets. “I worked really hard for this, working out every day trying to get my run down and increasing my pushups. This was my favorite competition.” JROTC participates in many community service projects around the
Pearland area. Once a year they pick up trash on their assigned street. They help with parking at the Brazoria County Fair and other events in the area. “As a member of the Color Guard, we have organizations that call on us to present the flag at their parties and different functions. It’s really cool,” said Colton. Since joining JROTC, Colton has grown as leader. “Starting from freshman year, I was put in charge of people I didn’t always know, and that can be kind of nerve-wracking, having people look up to you and expect you to know how to do stuff. You just have to stick with what you know and do your best. That was really tough – coming out of my shell and learning to help other people and lead them,” he said. “C/1SG Tadlock is an outstanding member of the Pearland High School JROTC,” said Pearland High School JROTC instructor Sgt. Major Bruce Grant. He is in his third year in the program, and he has served as squad leader and platoon sergeant in his first and second year in the program. “C/1SG Tadlock has distinguished himself as a leader academically, physically and within the context of JROTC. He has earned numerous awards and decorations for academics to include the Honor Roll Ribbon and the Academic Distinction Ribbon. Fitness awards include JROTC Athletics Ribbon, Raider Team Ribbon and the National Fitness Award. “He has also earned the SAI Leadership Ribbon, Summer Camp Ribbon, Cadet of the Marking Period Ribbon and the
Pearland Service Ribbon. C/1SG Tadlock is a member of the Color Guard and the Raider Team and has participated with both in numerous drill meet competitions. “C/1SG Tadlock is dedicated to the program and his education. He is a motivator in his class and on the teams. He is dependable and responsible, always willing to get the mission accomplished.” Colton would like to attend Texas A&M University and join the Corps of Cadets, then commission as an officer in the military. He is the son of Buck and Shawn Tadlock.
“Colton is a motivator in his class and on the teams. He is dependable and responsible, always willing to get the mission accomplished.” www.pearland
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BUSINESS BRIEFS
Pearland Chamber Hosts Pearland Day In Austin
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epresentatives of the Pearland Chamber, city leaders, concerned business owners and citizens traveled to Austin on February 27th and 28th to meet with members of the state legislature and key state agencies to ask for support on issues affecting the city’s rapid growth. The legislative program, which seeks to educate and involve the local citizenry regarding the activities of the Pearland Day in Austin Committee and of legislative actions that affect the community, was coordinated by the Pearland Area Chamber of Commerce. This year marked the 6th event and focused on seven specific issues affecting our community, including transportation/infrastructure, tax policy, natural resources, healthcare, education, economic development and catastrophic insurance. The Pearland delegation presented these Pearland specific issues to Gulf Coast legislators as well as to state agencies. The mission of the Pearland Day in Austin event has remained the same over the years and is to increase the general awareness among state legislators, agencies and staff about Pearland as a large, fast-growth community in the Houston metropolitan area; establish two-way positive working relationships with them; communicate needs and is-
Members of the Pearland Day in Austin Committee John Hoss, Commissioner Port Freeport; Jim Johnson, Pearland Chamber; Walt Sass, Weisser Engineering & Surveying Co and 2013 Chairman of Pearland Day; Charles Eastland, Cobb, Fendley & Assoc. Inc.; Woody Owens, City of Pearland; Gary W. Bucek, San Jacinto SBDC; Ravi Raj Yanamandala, Geotest Engineering, Inc. and Julio Vazquez, Third Coast Terminals; Cheryl Kepp, Pearland Chamber; Felicia Harris, F. Harris & Associates, PLLC; Carol Artz-Bucek, Pearland Chamber; Mary Starr, Prudential Real Estate and Nancy Dalton, Pearland Chamber.
sues of particular interest affecting the Pearland community and educate and involve the local citizenry regarding the activities of the committee and legislative actions that affect the community. This event has been successful in achieving success since 2007. Safety and mobility messages are continually expressed by the citizens of Pearland; therefore, one of the key del-
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egation visits was to the Texas Transportation Commission. Delegates also called on administrators and staffers in the Office of the Governor for Economic Development and Tourism, Secretary of State, Texas Health and Human Services Commission and the Texas Department of Insurance. This legislative program has produced some remarkable results in the five years since its inception due to determined business leaders and local residents interested in a better community and who are willing to participate by taking Pearland’s concerns to Austin. The Pearland Chamber takes pride in advocating for the members of the organization as well as for business and industry in the community. Thankful for those community leaders who take time out of their busy schedules to help take our message to Austin, citizens interested in the Chamber’s legislative program may call the chamber at 281-485-3634 for more information.
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March 2nd, 6 – 8 pm Daddy Daughter Date Night Pearland Parks and Recreation invites princesses ages 4 to 14 and their fathers to a night of dancing, photos and dessert at A Princess Ball, held on Bailey Campus, 4717 Bailey Road. Tickets are $30 per royal couple and $10 per additional sibling. Space within the kingdom is limited. Register at www.pearlandparks.com or call 281-412-8900.
EVENTS
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March 30th, 1 – 3 pm Easter Egg Dive
March 9th and 23rd, 8 am – 12 pm Pearland Old Townsite Farmers Market Support local families by browsing local produce and products such as honey, coffee, salsa, tea and soaps at Zychlinski Park, 2243 Grand Boulevard in Pearland. Visit www. pearlandoldtownsitefarmersmarket.com.
March 4th, 12 pm Young Life Golf Tournament
March 23rd and 24th, 10 am – 4 pm 19th Annual Paws in the Park
Register now for Young Life Brazoria County’s 9th Annual Golf Tournament at Golfcrest Country Club in Pearland. Hosted by Kenny and Linda Crockett, the tournament will include opportunities to win $15,000 cash, a set of Cleveland Irons and more. Following the tournament will be a silent auction and dinner. Visit www.brazoriacounty.younglife. org or call 281-997-0200 to register.
Man’s best friend is sure to enjoy this paw-some event! Join Pearland Parks and Recreation at Pearland’s Independence Park, 3919 Liberty Drive for the H-E-B Plus! Pet and Owner Fun Run followed by the national Dock Diving competition. Demonstrations planned throughout the weekend include fly ball, agility, obedience and grooming. Call 281-412-8900. Find event details at www.pearlandparks.com.
Children ages 3 to 10 will splash around for eggs at Pearland’s Recreation Center and Natatorium Activity Pool Easter Egg Dive! Floating eggs will fill the pool, and prizes will be given to all participants. Registration is limited for each age group. Visit www.pearlandparks.com.
SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS
E-mail editor@pearlandfocus.com. Include the event date, time, location and a short description of the event.
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Living the Sweet Life:
By Alisa Murray www.AlisaMurray.com Nationally recognized portrait artist and award-winning columnist.
Challenge Number Two – s we are working on being the best we can be this year together, I have broken down three ways I see people living. One is to live a life filled with panic and anxiousness, stirred by worry and stemmed from not loving oneself and trusting that each of us has a true purpose. The second is to live life filled with a reflection of what we want the world to think we have and to say what we think others want to hear instead of finding one’s true path. The last way is to love oneself and to love one another, and in doing so, everything else will indeed turn out right.
A
Father Mike and Alisa Murray.
The facts are in, folks. We live in a world that is full of both good and evil and somewhere in between. I know it, you know it and even animals know it. Hate is a powerful thing. Hate is evil. The opposite of hate, of course, is love, and there is a sinister dichotomy to the ebb and flow of the universe that literally sways and lies in the arms of these two ways of life. It was when I discovered the
Write Love on Your Heart!
continuum of this love/ hate thing that I finally understood why people make bad choices. Most of the time, we are confused about only one thing: ourselves. This explains murders, wars and the way we as humans walk away from each other in need and act as if bad things don’t exist. I believe that if I ever were to get the chance to sit and talk to all the people who have done really bad things, that the one thing I would find as a common denominator would be self-hate. There is no other explanation for all the wrong in our world. To me, this makes perfect sense. The answer to all the evil in our world is that at the deepest point in the heart of a soul, something changes and in that transformation, the soul has truly turned in on itself. So one asks, “How do we change it? How do we begin again with renewal of our spirit and fill ourselves with hopes and dreams and love?” The answer is that it starts with you. As we look to a new year, a new Valentine, a year filled with so much, we should feed our spirits with love. Take time for yourself to be in the moment, and think on who the most important people are in your life. Are you loving them? I’m not asking if you are you providing for them, disciplining them and getting along with them. Doing all of those things is what is expected. I am asking you to actively find a way that is absolutely nothing more or less a way to show them love. It is a contagious thing. Perhaps Father Mike stated it best in a sermon I was attending over the holidays concerning rules pearland
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and following a life in Christ. He explained that in the Bible, there are over 700 laws and rules for us to follow. Going even further, the word “heart” is mentioned over 800 times. Father didn’t think that this was a coincidence, and neither do I. The idea that one follows the law and has hate in one’s heart is a fake kind of love…a Pharisee kind of love. God never wants us to follow a law only because failing to do so creates a consequence. Rather, we should as humans desire to become transformed and want to do good towards one another because it is the right and just thing to do. Father Mike explained that our spirit fills and is at home in our hearts. “Live a life that transforms you; it spreads and transforms humanity. We all desire to see a world transformed through mercy received and given, grace received and given, and of course, love received and given. All of these things are done by the heart in our daily lives and through our interactions with one another. The spirit lives in the heart and that is the place where life with God begins.” Simply put, living a life in Christ is to do so with a consciousness towards love. The road to a world filled with love starts with each of us first loving ourselves so that we can see goodness and grace and mercy and love back. If you write love on your heart, you will reflect love on others. You cannot do this fully until you can love yourself, and then as you give love, all of the rest will take care of itself. Finding your purpose and passion in life first starts with love. Take Care of You!
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