Sienna List September 2018

INSIDE

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT I MOLDING MINDS I ALLEY ON THE TOWN September 2018

Community At Your Fingertips

PUTTING

health FIRST

THE

COLLEGE

TRANSITION

inthisissue

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Top 10 Things To Do In September

Community Spotlight

8

Putting Health First

14 16

The List

Molding Minds

The College Transition - tips for helping your child manage their expectations

Alley on the Town

Step Up to the Plate, Houston - a review of restuarants to try around town this September

Sienna List | info@siennalist.com | www.thelist.city | 281-201-5998

September 19th - 9:00 until 10:00am - Recreation & Tennis Center Tots & Crafts - 2701 Cypress Point Drive, 77459

Bring the kids for a morning of crafts along with free donuts for them to snack on.

September 22nd -12:00 until 4:00pm - Recreation & Tennis Center Breakfast & Bingo - 2701 Cypress Point Drive, 77459

Seniors, join old friends and make new ones while playing bingo and enjoying breakfast together.

September 22nd -12:00 until 4:00pm - Quail Valley Center Oktoberfest 2018 - 2880 La Quinta Drive, 77459

Bring in the fall season with a festival that includes dining, drinks and games for the whole family.

October 12th - 7:00 until 5:00pm - Recreation & Tennis Center

Sienna List was developed with the residents of Missouri City in mind. We offer free services for our members; a platform where members can find jobs, business recommendations, events, and more with the click of a button.

It’s easy to become a member of Sienna List:

1 - Visit www.thelist.city Create a user name and 2 - password for your login.

3 - Click the Submit button.

Tots & Crafts - 2701 Cypress Point Drive, 77459

Sign up with a partner and join the rec center for a shrimp boil and friendly competition at this year’s Shrimp Bowl Tennis Tournament.

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Visit TheList.city Now

FBJSL

community outreach

BY JASON LUTHOR

Volunteer Opportunities MANY TIMES, PEOPLE ONLY THINK ABOUT VOLUNTEERING TO HELP OTHERS WHEN THE HOLIDAYS ROLL AROUND. There’s no reason to wait until Thanksgiving if you want to get involved in the community though.

There are plenty of volunteer opportunities that are open throughout the year. The Fort Bend Junior Service League connects residents to the community through one of several volunteer opportunities. These opportunities range from helping serve food to supporting the education of kids living in the area.

If you’re interested in helping children who have had it hard growing up, the FBJSL can connect you with the Child Advocates of Fort Bend. This agency helps children on their way to permanent homes while escaping from abusive ones. Volunteers help put together a variety of activities for kids waiting for a home. They also help the main office in its work to investigate and advocate for victims of child abuse.

For residents interested in supporting the education of local kids, the FBJSL

can link them with the Sugar Land branch of the Houston Museum of Natural Science. HMNS helps to advance knowledge of natural science among both kids and adults. The museum hosts numerous exhibits throughout the year and often needs help with some of the events it hosts.

Volunteers get a chance to learn about science as they’re helping to put together museum presentations in topics from chemistry to Texas wildlife.

Another museum the FBJSL partners with is the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center. A project hosted by the Children’s Museum of Houston, the Discovery Center features six major exhibits in 12,000 square feet of exhibition space. Volunteers take part in several projects meant to support the education of children living around Fort Bend.

Anyone who’s ever gone hungry might want to help with Lunches of Love instead. The FBJSL connects residents with Lunches of Love in an effort to provide a nutritious, delicious sack lunch to children. Many kids go hungry during the holidays and weekends, and Lunches of Love helps to put together meals for them when they’re not in school. Volunteers can help either during the week or on the weekend.

Foods prepared on the weekend are delivered to school counselors, who distribute them to kids on Friday so they can eat on Saturday and Sunday.

The FBJSL also partners with Gigi’s Playhouse in the hope of educating the community about Down Syndrome.

Gigi’s Playhouse puts on national campaigns and education programs meant to inform people about Down Syndrome while also empowering people living with it. The organization offers free programs designed to develop the confidence of those living with Down Syndrome. Volunteers help kids learn to believe in what they can accomplish as students and as members of the community.

ANYONE INTERESTED in one of these programs CAN CONTACT THE FBJSL to participate in its placement program, which places volunteers in one of these organizations.

For more information, visit HTTP://WWW.FBJSL.ORG. September 2018

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TOWN CENTER TRANSPORTATION INC

To w n Ce n t e r Tra n s p o rt at i o n . c o m | To w n Ce n t e r Tra n s p o rt at i o n @ g m a i l . c o m | 2 8 1 . 7 4 3 . 8 9 9 2

Going on vacation? Traveling for business?

Going out to dinner? Let us do the driving!

Speech & OccupatiOnal therapy

Your house to George Bush (IAH) Airport ........................................ 90

We now Offer Ot (Occupational therapy)

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A night out .......................................................................................... $195 *all major credit cards accepted

Mid Size and Full Size Cadillac & Lincoln SUVs

inSurance and Medicaid accepted

Local, family-owned town car company serving Sugar Land and surrounding areas.

5819 Hwy 6, Suite 360, Missouri City 77459 speechandlearning.com • 281.403.2600

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Are You Ready for the Holidays?

Patio Covers • Gazebos • Sunrooms Screened Porches • Outdoor Kitchens Decorative Patios and More

Call today to schedule a free design consultation or visit our website for ideas

281-265-1994 • www.TCPatioHou.com 4

To Advertise, Please Email info@siennalist.com

MEAGHAN BARSAMIAN CoFounder - Publisher @MeaghanBarsamian

SEPT 12th

silver screen FIRST MAN A look at the life of the astronaut, Neil Armstrong, and the legendary space mission that led him to become the first man to walk on the Moon on July 20, 1969.

ALLEN BARSAMIAN CoFounder - Account Manager

As a young New York couple go from college romance to marriage and the birth of their first child, the unexpected twists of their journey create reverberations that echo over continents and through lifetimes.

RACHEL WILLIAMS Graphic Designer

ALLEY LETO Columnist @LifeOfAlley

SEPT 21st

CONTRIBUTORS: JASON LUTHOR Columnist

SEPT 21st

LIFE ITSELF

TOLU FALADE Publication Assistant

THE HOUSE WITH A CLOCK IN ITS WALLS Ten-year-old Lewis goes to live with his uncle in a creaky old house that contains a mysterious tick-tock noise. When Lewis accidentally awakens the dead, the town’s sleepy facade magically springs to life with a secret world of witches and warlocks.

SMALLFOOT A Yeti named Migo stirs up his community when he discovers something that he didn’t know existed -- a human.

SEPT 28th

ALISA MURRAY Columnist @AlisaMurray

September 2018

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HEALTH MATTERS WITH DR. STEVE HARRIS, DOCTOR OF CHIROPRACTIC WHERE PAIN RELIEF COMES NATURALLY WHERE PAIN RELIEF COMES NATURALLY

"Dr. Hanis gave me my life back!"

by Amy Sharp

oni Glen has rheumatoid arthritis. "I was on three medications, and experiencing a lot of side effects because the rheumatoid arthritis drugs are immunosuppressants," says Joni . "I've had back to back sinus infections, vision problems, shingles in my eye, and I under went a tonsillectomy. I also had a lot of aches and pains. I couldn't turn my head while driving. I had insomnia and occasional brain fogs. To get me through, I was using pain relievers, muscle relaxers and getting injections in my back. But worst of all, I had no life. I couldn't go outside with my grandchildren. I couldn't sit on the floor and play a game with them. My husband couldn't understand why I couldn't hold a paintbrush or open a jar of peanut butter."

Joni attended "Dinner with a Doc" with Dr. Steve Harris at Sugar Land Health Center as a favor to her good friend Sandra Osborne. "Sandra is a patient and wanted to see if Dr. Harris could help me. I have a background in healthcare, and when Dr. Harris explained the processes and what he does to make you feel better, it just made sense. One thing he talked about that really stood out to me was old injuries. I, as well as my doctors, always attributed all of my aches and pains to the rheuma­ toid arthritis. Maybe that wasn't the case .. .l had to hear more. I scheduled a consultation with Dr. Harris on the spot!"

Today, Joni has moved from a treatment program to a maintenance program with Dr. Harris. She has reduced her rheumatoid arthritis medications from three to one. She can now drive with ease and spends a lot of time playing with her grandkids. And Joni hasn't seen her rheumatologist or her neu­ rologist for pain since she started seeing Dr. Harris. In fact, her other health professionals have told her she's feeling better than she should! "At my consultation, Dr. Harris made it clear that rheumatoid arthritis is not curable," says Joni, "but that he could help me get a better quality of life. And guess what, he held to his word. He educated me on how my body works, and through a combination of his equipment, his nutritional and exercise rec­ ommendations and his expertise, he gave me my life back!. I just got home from taking my grandkids to the circus where I climbed the stairs to our seats. Before I started seeing Dr. Harris, that was not even possible. I highly recommend Sugar Land Health Center.

Everyone in Dr. Harris' office genuinely cares about you and help­ ing you improve your quality of life!"

Follow us!

YouTube channel: www.yourube.com/DrSteveHarrisDC Facebook: www.facebook.com/sugarlandhealth lnstagram: @sugarlandhealthcenter

www.sugarlandhealthcenter.com

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To Advertise, Please Email info@siennalist.com

New Patient Complimentary Exam and Consultation value-* If you live with pain, we are here to HELP. -$125

281-980-1050

Bring this ad to receive offer.

CODE: GLEN18SIENNA

•Does not Include Medicare or Personal Injury.

X-rays at regular charge.

Sugar Land Health Center

281-980-1050 3425 Hi ghway 6, Suite 101 (behind Mc Donalds near Williams Trace Blvd) Sugar Land, TX 77478

top 10 things to do SEPTEMBER 2018 1

It’s garden time! Right now, you should plant new tomatoes. Plant long-term, frost-tolerant vegetables together.

Frost-tolerant vegetables include beet, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrot, cauliflower, chard, collard, garlic, kale, lettuce, mustard, onion, parsley, spinach and turnip.

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In the herb garden you should snip oregano, dill, thyme, rosemary, basil and sage and freeze in little cubed containers for use all winter long. The mint will make it through any frost so that can stay hearty in the garden and the same can be said of lemon balm.

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Your children are watching what you do and seeing you read maybe just the encouragement they need to pick up that habit! On my nightstand right now is “Z” a novel of Zelda Fitzgerald by Therese Anne Fowler and “The Song of Achilles” by Madeline Miller.

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Pick a room, any room will do, and go through the closets and drawers to begin again boxing up items you are ready to donate. Plan for a date near the holidays to go drop off stuff at Pennywise. Many needy families will shop here during the holidays, in search of gently-used treasures to create their holiday magic. As we are more fortunate we should always try to give back and share things that we no longer need.

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If you have not done it yet you should ask for a CMA and find out what your home is worth. Keeping abreast of the values of your home can help you decide if you should sell and make a profit and also let you know the current market of your investments.

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ten

Planning for the holidays in September is a very smart thing indeed. Take a moment to create a list of those you’ll be buying gifts for, and then begin asking them what things they would like. Having several months to search for deals and run across the perfect gifts is way less stressful than trying to rush and throw your holiday together at the last moment.

Ask the children what they would like to do during Thanksgiving to give back to the community. There’s plenty of opportunity to volunteer in a kitchen, create art and goody bags for veterans or just spend time helping in the community. Ask your local church if they know of any families in need, and perhaps you could work towards giving them their Thanksgiving meal.

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Now that it’s not as hot, it’s time to paint the exterior of your home or fix any repairs that have put on the back burner. I usually replace doorknobs, touch up baseboard paint and give the once over outside to make sure anything that can be improved is addressed.

AUNTIE A’S

the list

BY ALISA MURRAY

WWW.ALISAMURRAY.COM

NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED PORTRAIT ARTIST & AWARD WINNING COLUMNIST.

Creating a menu that can be turned to is vital to save money and teach children how to cook. Starting at around age 11 I began showing the children how to make certain dishes. Now, they are able to create dishes they love, on their own without any stress. The Chicken and Sun-Dried Tomato dish over Linguine has been staple in my house for years and in the fall, it’s delightfully paired with a spot of spinach and mushrooms. It is heavy enough for a supper entree and warms up nicely as a leftover for a lunchbox during the school days. (see recipe below)

As always, spend time with your children even simpler activities such as the birds and music. Just the other day I was floating in my pool and heard the bees buzzing in the garden and then much to my surprise one decided to rest in my hand and drink the water pooled there. I have missed the bees…, but now thankfully they are back, and my yard is a healthier place under heaven because of them!

Chicken & Sun-Dried Tomato over Linguine with Mushrooms

- 12 chicken thighs skinned (salt & pepper both sides) - 16-24 leaves of fresh Spinach - 8 large fresh basil leaves sliced and diced - 1 cup of sliced thin Baby Bella mushrooms - 1/2 cup of cream - 1/2 stick of butter - 2 tablespoons of garlic salt - 7 sun-dried tomatoes - 3 tablespoons of sun-dried tomato infused oil - 1 red onion diced - 1 package of linguine cooked according to the box

Directions: In a pan heat the sun dried tomato oil. Add in the chicken and brown up the meat.

Remove from pan and add in the Sun dried tomatoes, spinach, onions, mushrooms with butter and garlic salt and herb and cook till tender, add back in the chicken and pour in the cream. Let sit simmering under a cover for ten minutes while you finish up cooking the pasta. Drain the pasta and plate it. Scoop chicken and veggies over the pasta and skim over the top to gather and pour the creamy sauce.

September 2018

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community spotlight

PUTTING

HEALTH

FIRST

M

any of us are guilty of maintaining a busy lifestyle and putting others needs before our own. However, research and experience shows the only way we can take care of others is by making sure we care for ourselves first. This month we teamed up with local healthcare providers to help you, your family, and even your pets achieve optimal health this season!

Sugar Land Health Center Dr. Steve Harris has always been ambitious. Shortly after he received his Chiropractic license, he married his sweetheart, Lee, and moved from St. Louis to Houston, to work with his Chiropractic mentor and family Doctor, Dr Pry. “I have seen a lot of things in my 40+ years of experience. But what we are able to do now for chronic pain, disc herniation, sciatica, headaches, pre- and post-surgical back cases, is more and better than ever before.” said Dr. Harris, as the first to offer chiropractic care in Sugar Land. Now the whole family is involved in the health center; Lee manages the Weight Loss Program, their daughter Sophie is head of marketing and administration and her husband Zack Brazzell is getting his doctorate and will receive his license in Chiropractic and join the family practice in less than a year. “We are a family PASSIONATE about health and helping people in our office, in our community and around the world. We feel it’s our mission to love and encourage others,” said Sophie Brazzell. The Sugar Land Health Center family takes pride in providing sophisticated services, a friendly experience, and being a natural source for pain relief. If you are dealing with pain, Sugar Land Health Center is here to help.

281-890-1050

www.sugarlandhealthcenter.com

Pisklak Orthodontics You probably know it’s never too late to begin orthodontic treatment – but when it comes to your youngster’s teeth, did you know earlier may be better than later?

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, kids should have an initial orthodontic screening at age 7. So what makes early evaluation – and potentially, early treatment – so important?

Monitoring your child’s growth patterns can give us the opportunity to intercept certain conditions to make overall treatment easier and possibly prevent future problems. The purpose of early treatment is not just to improve appearance, but to create a healthy environment for permanent teeth to come in.

It’s also important to remember that orthodontics is more than simply straightening teeth. Orthodontists understand the complexity of growth and development and facial form. Treatment plans address issues related to the jaw and the bite, not only movement of teeth. There is a reason orthodontists undertake additional years of specialty training – to learn and perfect their ability in the specialty. To become board certified, orthodontists must undergo rigorous clinical and written examination with certification renewal every 10 years.

Both Dr. Pisklak and Dr. Smith are board-certified orthodontists who are committed to the highest level of patient care. Please feel free to contact our office to schedule a complimentary orthodontic consultation and allow us the opportunity to show you what sets us apart! We look forward to meeting you and having you join our patient family here at Pisklak Orthodontics!

281-403-5599 www.pisklakorthodontics.com

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Solace Psychiatry Clinic

Dr. Prashant Gajwani is a board-certified psychiatrist and is considered a national leader in the treatment of mood disorders. He has been nominated as a top doctor of Houston multiple times. Dr. Gajwani established his private practice in Riverstone in 2015 after spending almost 2 decades in academic medical institutes to provide evidence based comprehensive treatment with the rigor of academic medicine in private practice focusing on, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, attention deficit hyperactive disorder.

Dr. Gajwani and his team of experts at Solace Psychiatry Clinic provide comprehensive psychiatric treatment that is individually tailored to individual needs. Janki Amin LPC-S completed her Master of Arts in marriage & family therapy from Chicago, IL. She provides therapy for individual, couples and families. Kelly Martinez PMHNP-BC is a psychiatric nurse practitioner, graduated from the University of Texas Health Science Center, specializing in treatment of adults with psychiatric illnesses. Sherry Grogan PMHNP-BC also a UT Health Sciences graduate, has years of experience diagnosing and treating the psychiatric needs of children, adolescents and adults.

We believe in providing our clients with cutting edge treatment options, based on latest developments and research - in medications, therapy, non-medication options such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and ketamine for refractor depression.

At Solace Psychiatry Clinic we work closely with you to find the best path for your well-being.

WHAT IS rTMS? Trans Cranial Magnetic Stimulation is a robust FDA-approved treatment for depression. It is a non-invasive treatment done in the office and you remain awake, relaxing in comfortable reclining chair. An MRI strength magnet is placed strategically on the head which delivers magnetic pulses to activate neurons, or cells in the brain, to increase neuronal activity and address the biochemical processes underlying depression. TMS is highly effective in treating depression, particularly in those who may have tried many medications without relief. The client resumes normal activities of daily life after TMS therapy.

Solace Psychiatry Clinic 4502 Riverstone Blvd | Missouri City, TX 77459 www.solacepsychiatryclinic.com

281-778-9530

or email us at info@thesolacecenter.com September 2018

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Sienna Gymnastics & Karate Call today for a free trial class!

ProGramS

Karate • Gymnastics • Tumbling Mom & Me Classes • Birthday Parties Parents Night Out • Summer Camp

281-778-7822

www.siennagymnastics.com

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(continued from page 9)

S.P.A.H. Sienna Plantation Animal Hospital

Sienna Dermatology Dr. Mary Moore , MD, FAAD and Dr. Angel Puryear, MD, FAAD are board-certified dermatologists specializing in medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology for all ages and skin types. They are loved and praised for their gentle bedside manner, thoroughness, and dedication to patients. Both dermatologists take a subtle, natural approach to cosmetic treatments such as Botox® and fillers to achieve beautiful results.

832-342-9700 www.siennadermatology.com

Lynka Smith

Psychiatric - Mental Health Nurse Practioner

It may come as a surprise to some that veterinarians actually work with people just as much, if not more, than they actually work with animals.

Yes, we get to play with puppies and kittens frequently, but in reality we treat many sick pets and we can only get them better via their pet parents. I love this aspect of Veterinary Medicine more than I ever thought I would. I became a veterinarian because I loved the scientific challenge behind it, but working with the people, especially here in Sienna, has been the most rewarding part of this career.

I never was one of those kids who had a dream to be a Vet from the age of 6. In fact, I earned my undergraduate degree without this career in mind at all. It wasn’t until I started working at a Houston animal hospital that I gained an appreciation for this field and the kind of work we do for people. Just like many career choices, you never know how much you’re going to enjoy something until you really jump in and get your hands dirty. I had no idea I would enjoy this career as much as I do. I love working right here in the Sienna community where we’re raising our family.

If you see me around town, please say hello!

Are you looking for someone who really listens to you & values your opinion?

Someone who is willing to work as hard as you to better your mental health? I pride myself on being available to my patients when they need me (we text & email).

I want to be able to provide my patients with what I would want my family to have; care on a more personal level. Feeling like more than “just a number.” To provide these extra services, I do not accept insurance. I provide assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning and medications for mental health issues. If this is what you are looking for, contact me.

832-429-5936 lynka@innerstrengthmh.com

281-778-5244

www.siennaplantationanimalhospital.com September 2018

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Up and Coming

Black to Basics,

BY MEAGHAN BARSAMIAN

Lenoir est Joli

W

hile we have been enjoying the hot dog days of summer, Travis Hamilton has been hard at work making sure we stay warm this Fall/Winter 2018 season.

Without a doubt the collection lived up to the designer tagline…

“aime par beaucoup, par tous, percu.”

admire elegance

Meaning “loved by many, admired by all, perceived elegance”.

The List magazine was invited to cover Fresh off the Rails fashion show last March, and we were lucky enough to snag an invite to see the Negris Lebrum, Black to Basics collection.

Negris Lebrum is inspired by a forbidden love story from the 40’s.

Travis Hamilton, designer/owner of Negris Lebrum brought the collection to Houston with Fresh off the Rails, after coming off of New York Fashion Week just a few weeks earlier to raving reviews.

The stage was set starting with a solo violinist, and as the models walked the music transitioned to a blend of sultry and rhythmic notes. As the name of the collection suggests, it consisted of rich black fabrics of complimenting romantic textures of lace, fur and sequins.

Pants were flattering with fitted waist lines and wide legs. High necklines and lace sleeves were on trend for the collections tops. As well as maintaining more seductive date night staples with plunging necklines along with fitted dresses and jumpsuits. Leaving a lasting mysterious impression, the collection was paired with sunglasses in a mixture of round and oversized shapes with an opaque-ombre lens.

September 2018

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HOUSTON METHODIST CARDIOVASCULAR SURGERY ASSOCIATES

WELCOMES DR. MARVIN ATKINS

Houston Methodist Cardiovascular Surgery Associates is pleased to welcome Marvin Atkins, MD, to the Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital campus. He completed fellowships in both cardiothoracic surgery and vascular surgery, and offers the full scope of surgical and minimally invasive endovascular options to treat diseases of the heart and vascular system.

His level of expertise, combined with access to state-of-the-art technology at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, allows for rapid diagnosis and treatment of heart and vascular conditions with better long-term outcomes for patients.

Marvin Atkins, MD

To schedule an appointment, call 713.352.1820.

Cardiothoracic & Vascular Surgeon

16605 Southwest Fwy., Suite 410 Medical Office Building 3 Sugar Land, TX 77479 houstonmethodist.org/spg

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To Advertise, Please Email info@siennalist.com

molding minds

BY CINDY ALLERMAN

The College Helping Your Children

Transition: Manage Their Expectations

O

ne of my students heading off to college shared her concerns with me about everything from the weather to the challenging classes to making new friends. She concluded that she was even “worried about worrying” when she was in college. Many college-bound students share her fears and anxiety and parents want to help. Here are some tips to assist with this transition:

Develop a Plan: Where will you go for help if needed?

Check out campus health clinics (including mental health), academic support or tutoring centers, campus ministries, peer mentors and academic advisors. In addition, pick out a few interesting clubs to check out where you can meet students with common interests.

And don’t forget to check out the career center early to learn how they can help with internships or even declaring a major.

Be Patient: Transitions are tough for everyone and it takes time to settle in, make new friends and develop a sense of comfort in your new environment. This could take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. Sometimes it seems like you are the only one struggling, but I guarantee that others feel the same way.

Safety and Health: Employ safety strategies such as always attend parties with a group (arrive together and leave together), travel with a friend and use campus safety services such as walking escorts or shuttles. Mental health is also crucial

as many students experience anxiety and depression their first few months in college. Remember to eat well and get some exercise. Fitness centers on college campuses can be amazing.

Time Management: College students spend approximately fifteen hours per week attending classes and may need to develop a study plan to stay organized. A basic rule of thumb is to devote three hours of studying to every hour spent in the classroom. Gather all syllabi from professors at the beginning of the term and write down all assignments and exams in a planner and block out dedicated study times.

Attend Classes & Office Hours: While attendance may not be taken in college, it is essential to attend every class and many times, the tests will include material covered only in the lectures. Sit towards the front and make an effort to get to know your professors by meeting with them during office hours. Professors can be incredible mentors and later on, be able to write recommendations or point out summer internships or job opportunities.

Expect the Unexpected: No matter how much you plan, something is going to come up that you weren’t expecting. Try to work through problems on your own, but reach out for help if you need it. Be open to trying new things as you may also have some incredible experiences.

Enjoy this time and before you know it, you’ll be graduating and moving on to your next adventure. And then you may even wonder what you were so worried about!

Cindy Allerman is the founder of College Journey Consulting LLC. She guides high school students on their college journey by working with them to develop a list of best-fit colleges, explore potential majors and careers, and submit compelling applications showcasing their unique personality and strengths.

She can be reached at 281-778-0928 or cindy@collegejourneyconsulting.com.

www.collegejourneyconsulting.com September 2018

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Alley on the Town

La Lucha Photo by Mia Pham

WRITTEN & PHOTOS BY ALLEY LETO

step up to the plate,

H

ouston is a city known for being a melting pot. There are more than 145 different languages spoken in Houston, making it an incredible city of culture and diversity. With that diversity, there are over 10,000 different restaurants to choose from!! Statistics show Houstonians eat out more times a week than in any other city in America—4.1 times per week, compared with the national average of 3.1.

Houston has one of the best culinary scenes in the country.

houston

International Smoke, was a collaboration vision that award winning Chef Michael Mina and celebrity cookbook author Ayesha Curry had for a restaurant.

Their vision became a Photo by Shannon O’Hara reality in July 2018 when their Houston restaurant opened at CITYCENTRE. International Smoke is described as a global approach to wood fire cooking, grilling and smoking. Flavorful dishes that highlight an array of quality spices and cooking techniques from all over the world. Brunch options may be available in September that will feature a global buffet of interactive stations.

800 SORELLA CT, STE 940 HOUSTON, TX 77024 (713) 714-0126

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MON-FRI 4-11PM SAT 5-11PM SUN 5-11PM

To Advertise, Please Email info@siennalist.com

fusion eats

international smoke

Which leads me to this month’s feature! Super excited to share a round up of some of the new Houston restaurants to visit in September 2018!

Fusion Eats, Owners Julia Sharaby and Chef David Grossman decided after their great success with Fusion Taco’s North Main location in the Heights, to give another location a try.

Fusion Eats opened within the Greenway Plaza development early July 2018. The restaurant features a menu of signature and seasonal “fusion” tacos alongside beer and margaritas, but will also feature a breakfast menu available during the week, along with seasonal salads and more – with all items prepared using David and Julia’s own housemade sauces, marinades, tortillas, salsas, juices and purees.They also host a fun happy hour!

Photo by Fusion Eats 9 GREENWAY PLAZA, STE 150 HOUSTON, TX 77046 (713)422-2882

MON-FRI 7AM-8PM SAT CLOSED SUN 10AM-6PM

superica & la lucha

coming Superica/ La Lucha, Texas-born, restaurateur soon... award-winning Ford Fry is slated to debut his side-by-side restaurant concepts on Sept 10, 2018. The two adjacent spaces will offer their own unique dining experience and have their own distinct flare.

Superica, Superica’s menu will Superica - Photo by Mia Pham feature more of Tex-Mex classics like tamales, fajitas, enchiladas as well as more traditional dishes like ceviche and pozole. The bar will offer Mexican SUPERICA SUN-THUR 11AM-10PM FRI-SAT 11AM-11PM

Restaurants both located at:

1801 N. SHEPHERD HOUSTON, TX 77008

lagers, craft beers, margaritas and wines from Spain, South American and California. Their “Siesta hour” Mon-Fri 3pm-5pm, offers a limited menu of quick bites.

La Lucha, will be a neighborhood bar and lounge with an exposed wood burning hearth and an oyster shucking room. Menu will feature the freshest Gulf Coast-only oysters, shrimp, crab, warm biscuits and satisfying fried chicken dinners.

Along with banana pudding soft serve ice cream. The bar will feature signature cocktails, a variety of bubbly wines, outstanding craft beers and tequila and mezcal drinks.

LA LUCHA MON-THURS 5PM-10PM FRI 5PM-11PM SAT-SUN NOON-TBD

If you would like to be considered to be featured in one of the next publications please email Alley at PR@lifeofalley.com

September 2018

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Y AlALAG VILLAGE

onexhibit

at the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center

A

re you looking for a new and exciting exhibit that your kids can enjoy?

Hoping to encourage your child’s interest in other people, cultures, and geography? Then it might be time to head down to the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center, where an exhibit about the village of Yalalag is currently being hosted. Yalalag – A Mountain Village in Mexico! was one of the Children’s Museum of Houston’s original exhibits.

The Yalalag exhibit was renovated in 2015 and returned to the Discovery Center and now remains on display there. The facelift was designed to give guests a sense of what it would be like to visit the village.

Around the showcase, visitors can learn what the day-to-day life is like in the village of Villa Hidalgo Yalalag. This village is a

Zapotec village that can be found in the Sierra Juarez Mountains, which themselves can be found in Oaxaca, Mexico.

For the average person, a trip to Oaxaca may be out of the question. However, through the Yalalag exhibit, it’s much easier to enjoy a condensed version of a visit. This exhibit is tailored to children of course, so the village is simplified to appeal to them.

However, there’s still plenty to enjoy. Kids get to participate in celebrations that mirror the traditions and holidays celebrated throughout Oaxaca. Children can also

create arts and crafts that celebrate the people of Yalalag.

Guests can walk through this small version of the village, which features a central plaza and market, stores, homes, and restaurants.

The local schoolhouse offers puzzles and activities that kids can go hands-on with, while a visit to the municipal building gives kids a chance to find local artifacts like pottery and traditional costumers.

There’s even a replica of the Yalalag church that includes imagery that highlights the authenticity of the exhibit.

What else can kids look forward to? The VW Bus gives children a chance to ride through Yalalag while the Bajaj Mototaxi takes children on a unique ride. The Bajaj Mototaxi is a special vehicle that’s a cross between a golf cart and motorcycle that’s become popular in Oaxaca. There are also videos of many of the important people, places, and things across the state. The Yalalag exhibit is a great way of introducing kids to a different place and culture.

Anyone interested in visiting the exhibit can head down to the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center. The center can be found at 198 Kempner Street in Sugar Land. First tie visitors will find it just off of Highway 90 and not far from the Sugar Land Regional Airport. Guests can visit from between 10 in the morning to six in the evening between Tuesday and Saturday at a cost of $12 per person. Seniors can get in for $11 and children under the age of one are admitted for free.

For more information about Yalalag or the rest of the center, you can visit www.childrensdiscoveryfb.org September 2018

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health report Should I Be Screened for

Prostate Cancer?

T

he prostate, a male-only organ, is located below the bladder and in front of the rectum, and produces the fluid that transports sperm. Among American men, prostate cancer is more common than any other cancer, with the exception of skin cancer.

“It’s important to consider your personal risk factors and the reasons to do testing when thinking about prostate cancer screening,” said Neel Srikishen, M.D., a urologist with Houston Methodist Urology Associates at Sugar Land. “Screening for prostate cancer, however, may not be right for all men.”

WHO’S MOST AT RISK? Risk factors for prostate cancer include: • AGE: Before the age of 40, the diagnosis of prostate cancer is rare; however, as men age the chance of developing prostate cancer increases.

• FAMILY HISTORY: If you have a close family member — such as a father, brother or son — who was diagnosed with prostate cancer, then you are at a higher-thanaverage risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer yourself. If more than one close family member was diagnosed, your risk is even greater.

• RACE: The risk of developing and dying of prostate cancer is higher for AfricanAmerican men than any other race.

SCREENING TESTS Two tests are commonly used to screen for prostate cancer: • DIGITAL RECTAL EXAM (DRE): The doctor inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel the prostate for any abnormalities in terms of texture, size, and/ or the presence of a lump or nodule on the prostate.

• PROSTATE SPECIFIC ANTIGEN (PSA) BLOOD TEST: A blood sample is drawn and analyzed for PSA, which is a substance

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made only by the prostate. High levels of PSA can indicate prostate cancer, but may also be indicative of non-cancerous conditions such as enlargement, infection, or inflammation.

A PSA test is typically done together with a DRE to help identify prostate cancer. If either of these tests are abnormal, then a biopsy of the prostate must be done to rule in or rule out cancer. There are also newer screening methods that are being developed such as imaging, blood, and urine-based tests which are available and may be helpful in certain situations.

Symptoms of prostate cancer can include difficulty urinating, a decreased flow of the urine stream, more frequent urges to urinate, and blood in urine or semen.

These symptoms, however, can also be due to other non-cancerous conditions, and prostate cancer itself is often diagnosed in men with no symptoms at all.

“Even though prostate cancer can be slow-growing in some men, it can be very aggressive and even lethal in others.

You definitely don’t want to ignore any symptoms, but if you are at risk then you should have a conversation with your doctor about prostate cancer even if you don’t have any urinary symptoms.” said Srikishen.

To schedule an appointment with Neel Srikishen, M.D., or another urologist with Houston Methodist Urology Associates, call 281.276.5280. For a physician referral, call 281.274.7500.

WHO SHOULD BE SCREENED? The American Urologic Association guidelines recommend that men at high risk for prostate cancer consider being screened starting between the ages of 40 and 55. In all men after the age of 55, the decision to be screened or not should be based on shared decision making with their doctor.

“While some medical organizations have taken different stances on who should be screened for prostate cancer and when, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits of the process with your doctor. For example, the PSA test is much more than ‘just a blood test,’ and the decision to be screened or not can have a significant impact on a man’s health and quality of life,” Srikishen said. “Certainly, if you have bothersome urinary symptoms, regardless of your age, you should see your doctor for evaluation.”

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WE MAKE YOUR EXPERIENCE AS PERFECT AS THE MOMENT. Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Sugar Land understands that your pregnancy and childbirth experience is unique to you.

That’s why we offer our support, guidance and expertise from the first weeks of pregnancy through the arrival of your baby — because every mother deserves an experience as perfect as the moment.

Amenities include: • Tranquil, private and family-centered labor and delivery suites • Postpartum care and education, as well as breastfeeding support • Level II special care nursery with neonatal-trained staff to monitor high-risk and premature babies To find an OB-GYN near you, call 281.205.4514.

To register for a Childbirth Center class or tour, visit houstonmethodist.org/events or call 281.205.4514.

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