INSIDE
travel guide
I
the guide
|
h e a lt h r e p o r t
may 2019
Parenting in the
internet
generation
The Graduate
in this issue
410
THE GRADUATE Graduates of the class of 2019
MEAGHAN BARSAMIAN C o F ounder - P ublisher
@MeaghanBarsamian
13
HEALTH REPORT
15
MOLDING MINDS
Cancer Survivors Day
ALLEN BARSAMIAN C o F ounder - A cc ount M anager @allenbarsamian
TOLU FALADE
Mental Health Awareness Month
17
THE LIST
10 Things to do in May
P ublication A ssistant
MARJORIE MCCLENDON G raphic D e signer
@Margiebargie
C ONTRIBUTORS : JASON LUTHOR C olumnist
ALISA MURRAY C olumnist
The List | info@siennalist.com | www.thelist.city | 281-201-5998
FREE Bounce Camp
@AlisaMurray
On the Cover
May 15th | 1:00pm until 2:00pm | Kitty Hollow Park | 9211 Hwy 6, 77459 Get ready for a high intensity workout using the amazing Kangoo Jump boots. Burn calories, build endurance and stamina, and most importantly – have fun!
The Sugar Land Moms Fest 2019
May 19th | 11:00am until 4:00pm | Sugar Land Marriott Town Square | 16090 City Walk, 77479 This event is going to be a day of celebration with hourly Kendra Scott giveaways, free mini blow-out sessions, local business promotions, delicious bites, and more!
Houston GSA Picnic
May 19th | 1:00 until 6:00pm | Community Park | 1700 Glenn Lakes, 77459 Bee Busy Learning Academy invites you to their 1 st Annual Gay Straight Alliance Picnic! Meet and greet GSA members from various schools all over Houston.
Family Fish Camp Clinic
June 1st | 8:30am until 2:00pm | Community Park Lake | 1700 Glenn Lakes, 77459 This is a free family program teaching basic fishing. Fishing gear and bait will be provided, but attendees may also bring their own gear. Be ready to fish for the last hour!
2
To Advertise, Please call (281)201-5998
Malota Family Photography Courtesy of
parent life
PARENTING IN THE INTERNET GENERATION
Let’s face it – the internet is a permanent fixture in the world of parenthood. It cannot be avoided (forever) and can even be a helpful parenting tool at times. However, since the “World Wide Web” went live to the public in 1991, parents have been struggling to incorporate it safely into their children’s lives. Unfortunately, we have generally stayed a few steps behind our tech-savvy kids throughout this process. As soon as we think we have caught up, they learn more and find loopholes into new pathways of danger. For some parents, this can understandably cause feelings of panic and drastic measures of protection. Regardless of how we feel about it, the internet is an integral part of our world and children will be exposed to it at some point (in classrooms, workplaces, by friends and family). It can be an important way to help our children find a place in the interconnected and technology-based world of their future. The internet can be used to enrich their education, open their minds, explore their interests, build their social world, and even pave their career paths. There is no doubt it can be a useful parenting tool, but we need to use wisely.
However, many parents do not hesitate to give their children access to computers, tablets, and smart phones with internet capability that can connect them with strangers from every part of the world. Educate yourself on the potential dangers of internet use if you have not already – exposure to information and pictures that your child is not emotionally ready for, communication with child predators, news coverage that is not age-appropriate, cyber-bullying, mechanisms to share your location with others, human trafficking, and potentially addictive behaviors. Lots of helpful information can be found (thanks to the internet!) on www.safekids. com, www.netsmartz.org, and www.crime-stoppers.org. Plan Ahead Too many parents are backtracking and using “reactive” rather than “proactive” strategies to manage internet use. Why wait until your child is exposed to something dangerous when you can plan ahead to keep them safe? Parents with young children can learn from those who learned the hard way. Use the knowledge you gain to decide on a plan for when and how you will incorporate the internet into your child’s life.
Understand the Dangers Most of us are pretty clear on the danger of talking to strangers. Age and Development Matter
When we consider giving our children independence of any kind, we need to factor in their age and developmental level. Children and teens have brains that are still developing. They have limited understanding of risks and very little self-control. It is not surprising that their curiosity can take them to websites where they don’t belong. This is why parental control is so important. Be sure you are exposing them only to content that is developmentally appropriate. Freedom is Not an Option Internet access is a privilege for children, not a right. It is helpful to instill this from an early age. Because it is a privilege, parents have the right to set up any rules they choose. Rule number 1: Freedom is not an option. It is critical for parents to maintain control over internet use. If children and teens are given access to a door that opens up the world to them, parents have the right to control access to that door and walk through it right alongside. Set Clear Rules and Boundaries Take it one step at a time when introducing the internet to your children. Start with very limited access to age-appropriate and educational websites only. You can always increase access over time, MAy 2019
3
gymnastics and tumbling
gymnastics and tumbling
Reeg R giisstt eer r N No ow w!!
Activities Activities
• Carnival Carnival • Water slides Water slidescourses • Obstacle • inflatables Obstacle courses • Open Gym inflatables • Games Open Gym ....and much more!
as low as $175 per camp Book all camps as low as3 $175 perfor camp as low as $500!
Book all 3 camps for as low as $500!
before and after care available! Lunch and snack can be added
before and after care available!
• • • • • • Games ....and much Ages more! 4-13
Lunch and snack can be added Available 9am-1pm
JUNE
JULY Tuesday, July 2
Available 9am-1pm Tuesday, June 4 Tuesday, June 18 Tuesday, June 25
JUNE
Tuesday, June 4 Tuesday, June 18
Extended Care 9am-4pm
Extended Care 9am-4pm Tuesday, August 6
Tuesday, July 16
Thursday, July 18
JULY
Tuesday, July 23
Tuesday, July 2 Thursday, July 25
Tuesday, July 16
Thursday, July 18
To Advertise, Please 4 Tuesday, Call Now! June 25 call (281)201-5998
832-321-7100
AUGUST
Ages 4-13
Find us!
Find us!
Thursday, August 8
6
AUGUST Tuesday, August 6 Thursday, August 8
Olympiatx.com Tuesday, July 23 info@olympiatx.com
gymnastics and tumbling
6
7100 Knights Ct Missouri City, tx 77459
but taking it away brings a host of complications. Be cautious with websites that are not intended for children, such as YouTube (consider YouTube Kids). Set up passwords and parental controls on all devices (phones, tablets, computers, gaming consoles). All downloads and purchases should be parent-approved. Be sure that all accounts are set up with the highest privacy settings. Finally, set time limits and be consistent with them. Children and teens know when they can push the limits and they lack the self-control to know when enough is enough. Have Candid Conversations Children always respond best to limits when they understand the reasons for them. Talk with your kids about the dangers of the internet. Explain that they may someday come across something scary or inappropriate online and you want them to turn it off and tell you right away. Make sure they understand that the goal is to protect them rather than to
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.
parent life
punish them for curiosity. Explain to your teens the importance of internet privacy, including the consequences of sharing their to evolve to keep them safe while personal information, location, and at the same time connecting them with the world. inappropriate pictures or videos. Supervise Closely Supervision is important whether you have a 5-year-old on a tablet or a 16-year-old on social media. It only takes one click, one message, or one post to cause serious emotional harm to a child. Be sure that internet use is allowed only in public areas of the home. Make it a point to check your child’s internet search history, social media posts, and every app installed on their phone. Just as we should always know where our children are going, we should also know the places they visit online. Though kids may have been afforded more privacy and independence in past generations, the rules of the game have changed. Our children live in an era when both knowledge and danger are at their fingertips. Parenting strategies must continue
It’s easy to become a member of Sienna List:
1 2 3
Visit www.thelist.city Create a user name and password for your login. Click the Submit button.
Visit TheList.city Now
MAy 2019
5
Preschool to 8th Grade
Enrolling for the 2019-2020 School Year 6
Schedule a Tour
To Advertise, Please call (281)201-5998
www.DivineSaviorAcademy.com
MAy 2019
7
TOWN CENTER TRANSPORTATION INC
Town Center Tra ns p ortati on. c om | To w n Ce n t e r Tran s p o rt at i o n @ g m ail . c o m | 2 8 1.743.8992
Going on vacation? Traveling for business? Going out to dinner? Let us do the driving! Your house to George Bush (IAH) Airport ........................................$90 Your house to William P. Hobby Airport ............................................$70 A night out .......................................................................................... $195 *all major credit cards accepted
Mid Size and Full Size Cadillac & Lincoln SUVs
Local, family-owned town car company serving Sugar Land and surrounding areas.
silver screen THE SUN IS ALSO A STAR MAY 17TH Amidst the fervor and flurry of New York City, two teens fall for each other. Will fate be enough to take these teens from star-crossed to lucky in love?
ALADDIN MAY 24th Young Aladdin embarks on a magical adventure after finding a lamp that releases a wisecracking genie.
ROCKETMAN MAY 31ST A musical fantasy about the fantastical life of a piano prodigy named Reginald Dwight who changes his name to Elton John and becomes an international superstar.
DARK PHEONIX JUNE 7th Jean Grey begins to develop incredible powers that corrupt and turn her into a Dark Phoenix. Now the X-Men will have to decide if the life of a team member is worth more than all the people living in the world.
may 2019
9
10
To Advertise, Please call (281)201-5998
MEGAN SIMONSEN
Ilian rodriguez Ilian Rodriguez is graduating from Ridge Point High School, c/o 2019. She is a member of NHS, Spanish NHS, Science NHS, and a threeyear softball player. She volunteers in the Youth Expanding Service (Y.E.S.), is a Panther Kick-Off Mentor to transitioning freshmen and received Outstanding Academic Achievement for four years. Ilian will study mathematics this fall as an Honors College student at University of Houston’s College of Natural Science and Mathematics. Ilian is a gift and a blessing to us and we could not be more grateful to God. Continue being you: a humble, loving, sincere, honest, responsible, funny, special human being with a beautiful soul and big heart. We are SO proud of you! We love you infinitely! Love, Mom, Dad and Luis
Megan Simonsen is graduating from Ridge Point High School on May 25, 2019. Megan began kindergarten at Sienna Crossing Elementary, attended Baines Middle School, and Ridge Point High School. Megan lettered in choir and thoroughly enjoyed being a part of the Ridge Point Choir program all four years of high school. Megan is attending Sam Houston State University in the fall and plans to study creative writing. Her parents, EJ and Dawn, and her brother, Chase are all proud of her and are excited for the next part of her journey. Keep your head up and keep smiling! Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Photo courtesy of TARALOO)
VICTORIA DELOZIER Victoria DeLozier, daughter of Steven and Kelly DeLozier, is a 2019 Ridge Point High School graduate. In addition to taking AP classes, she is a member of the National Honor Society, the Spanish Honor Society and Science Honor Society. Victoria has lived in many places throughout her life, including Texas, California, Louisiana (where she was born), and beautiful New Zealand. She’s had a love of dance since she was three years old, and will soon dance her last recital with Robin’s Dance Studio. She will continue her dance education at the University of Texas at Dallas as a member of the Power Dancers while pursuing a degree in Computer Science. MAy 2019
11
12
To Advertise, Please call (281)201-5998
Cancer
health report
Survivors Day
Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is joining nearly 15.5 million American cancer survivors celebrating the 32nd Annual National Cancer Survivors Day® this year. Also being recognized are the many family members, caregivers and health care providers whose support of cancer survivors help make the celebration possible. “A diagnosis of cancer can generate many emotions but survival is about embracing life and living each day to the fullest,” said Amy SebastianDeutsch, director of oncology services. “You will find our Cancer Survivor’s Day celebration and resource fair filled with laughter, camaraderie, hope, compassion, faith, love and music as we honor cancer survivors for their strength and courage.” Anyone living with a personal history of cancer – starting from the moment of diagnosis – is a cancer survivor,
according to the National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation®. “National Cancer Survivors Day is a great opportunity for cancer survivors, caregivers, friends and family to come together and affirm there can be quality of life after a diagnosis of cancer,” said Clive Shkedy, M.D., medical director of radiation oncology. Additionally, the foundation says that more people are surviving cancer than ever before, thanks to advances in prevention, early detection, treatment and followup care. Cancer, however, does come with many challenges, such as hindered access to cancer specialists and promising new treatments, inadequate or no insurance, financial hardships, employment problems and psychological struggles. “Despite these difficulties, cancer survivors can live active, productive lives with the support of other survivors,” said Shkedy.
Houston Methodist Cancer Center at Sugar Land welcomes all local cancer survivors and one guest to join us as we honor cancer survivors. Find Your Sunshine, the Cancer Survivors Day Celebration and Resource Fair will begin at 10 a.m., Friday, May 31, at the Sugar Land Marriott Town Square. News anchor, ShernMin Chow from KHOU 11 will emcee the event and this year’s keynote motivational speaker is Conor Cunneen an author and two-time cancer survivor. Guests will also be able to have a photo taken at the photo booth, and visit our resource fair. Recognizing the importance of wellness, guests will be invited to participate in a fun activity prior to enjoying brunch. Registration is required. Register online at events.houstonmethodist. org/survivorluncheon-sl or call 281.274.7500. MAy 2019
13
14
To Advertise, Please call (281)201-5998
molding minds
Mental Health Awareness Month May is Mental Health Month, and for many people, mental health issues begin early. From elementary through high school, students face challenges that can be particularly difficult if they stuffer from mental health problems. Recently, schools have been making it a priority to support these students. When young people effectively manage their mental health problems, they’re more likely to do better in school. They become more engaged in different activities and become better problem solves. Students are also less likely to be aggressive toward others when they are in control of their mental health issues, which helps create a positive culture across the school. One way schools are addressing mental health is by promoting collaboration between teachers, students, and mental health professionals. Research by the Cleveland Clinic suggests that collaboration between schools and mental health providers can help improve the lives of students. One way that this can be done is by simply increasing the level of communication between schools and mental health providers in the area. Formal programs may or may not be part of this relationship, but there are simple practices that schools can implement without putting into practice any sort of program. One simple solution may be the use of bridge teams. Students coming into a school who have a mental illness may have an easier time integrating into their new environment with the help of these teams. Bridge teams alert school staff that certain students may need extra attention and care as they join the student body. Addressing the needs of these students can often mean simple changes, like being more
welcoming. The responsibility for supporting these students falls not only on teachers, but the entire staff, and bridge teams help everyone from bus drivers to administrators understand what they can do to better support students with mental health issues. According to youth.gov, a government website designed to help educators improve schoolbased programs, over one-third of school districts provide mental health services to students. An estimated one-fourth of all these programs rely on outside agencies to help provide these services. One example of these programs is the Now is the Time plan, which was designed to help improve access to mental health care. Now is the Time was designed to help identify students at an early age who require mental health support, while also referring these students for appropriate treatment. Teachers also benefit, since the plan includes training designed to help teachers recognize when students need additional support. The plan was also designed to help create a more positive environment for students to learn in. Now is the Time was created to help schools implement changes that lead to better conditions, improved attitudes, and reduced violence. The plan was designed so that agencies like the President’s New Freedom Commission on Mental Health can help schools to come up with plans for identifying students who need mental health care. Schools can draw from plans such as Now is the Time and create plans tailored to their specific situations, and through those plans create a more positive environment for all students. MAy 2019
15
Come Visit Us At The Rainforest Movie Theatre Prizes/Toys After Treatments Monthly Gift Card Giveaways For Patients
Accepting new pAtientS
We see most all PPO Dental Insurance plans and private pay patients.
Dr. John howe, DDS
9201 Sienna Ranch Road, Suite 103 Missouri City, TX 77459 281-778-0060 • Fax 281-778-0184
siennapediatricdentistry.com
Alisa Murray’s Tasty Tempura Prawns with Mixed Vegetables One of the hardest decisions we face when we go to a sushi restaurant is whether to also order the tempura. It is so tasty and for years I was a little hesitant to try to make it at home. I discovered that it’s so easy to do and I make it regularly as an after-school snack so that when we go out to eat, we only order sushi! LOL You’ll Need: 2 boxes of tempura batter 1 small can of soda water Pan with 2” cooking oil hot Fresh prawns shelled and deveined Chopped asparagus, zucchini, sweet potato, onion, red bell peppers Dipping sauce of your choice In a bowl take the tempura batter and pour in the soda water Dip the veggies into the batter and drop into the oil. Let it bounce there for a minute and flip. Once brown, scoop onto a paper towel to drain Repeat ‘til all veggies have been “tempura’d” and then do your prawns so they are nice and hot! Finish by adding a ponzu sauce, soy sauce, or a dipping sauce of your choice.
16
To Advertise, Please call (281)201-5998
1
In the garden you’ll want to plant okra, cucumbers, garlic, chives, basil and sunflowers from seeds. Keep an eye out for weeds and pull often so that does not get away from you. Keep nurturing those tomatoes and strawberries and fertilize as needed.
TOP 10 THINGS 2 TO DO IN MAY
In the herb garden you’ll want to clip mint back and make extracts for baking. Easy to make with vodka and herbs crushed and sealed in a dry and dark place for 6 weeks. Also begin freezing thyme and basil into little cubed treats to add a lovely touch in your homemade lemonades during the summer months poolside.
the list BY ALISA MURRAY
WWW.ALISAMURRAY.COM
7
If you are already on a schedule with doctor’s appointments GREAT! But if you are a little behind…I have found that by booking the annual children’s check ups during the summer months; this staves off the possibilities of them catching the flu. I would never go to the doctor in flu season unless I was already sick.
3
8
4
9
Set aside three days to clean out the garage, checking the bikes and other equipment that may need a little cleaning and TLC. Pump up the tires and get everything in working order for a spontaneous family stroll around the block before things heat up next month!
NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED PORTRAIT ARTIST & AWARD WINNING COLUMNIST.
Now is a great time to spend the afternoon at the zoo. The littles should pack a camera and take turns creating artistic compositions of the animals. Encourage them to frame the animals differently and even zoom in and do something abstract. These could also be turned into really cute calendars for gifting family this holiday season.
On my nightside table… With a few weeks left in Boo Walker’s “A Marriage Well crawfish season you might try Done” and “God-Shaped Hole” your hand at cooking up some by Tiffanie DeBartolo. of those mud bugs! Being from North Carolina I had never tried them before moving here 29 years ago and finally this year I actually CRAVED them! They are delightful If you have not planned the with other entrees such as baked summer camps for the children cod or roasted red snapper. now is the time to get that done. There are plenty of day camps and weekly day only available for the littles that may be apprehensive As always, place that about sleeping away from home. electronics basket close to the kitchen and forbid their use during suppertime! Go around the table and ask each of your family Commit to writing a love members to tell about their day letter each day starting in June for or pick a subject and let everyone one month to your spouse. You pitch in with opinions and can have it bound and add it as a commentary. This will build many very special gift this year under the things in your children, the ability tree! Who knows? It might actually to articulate their opinion and give some insights to the one you defend them is a skill that must be love as to your daily muses about mastered safely in the round table them and the relationship your in. of your home.
5
10
6
MAy 2019
17
Handwriting and Social Skills Summer Camps
inSurance, Medicaid AND MEDICARE accepted
reformat
18
To Advertise, Please call (281)201-5998
Behavioral Consultations by Certified ABA Therapists for Parent/Family Training
Speech and Occupational Therapy for Children and Adults
5819 Hwy 6, Suite 360, Missouri City 77459 speechandlearning.com • 281.403.2600
MAY 2019
19
20
To Advertise, Please call (281)201-5998
Top 10
the guide
driving safety tips for the summer 1. Wear a Seat Belt
rent a car for your summer road The most important of our driving trip. safety tips. By increasing seat belt use, thousands of lives could be 8. Watch Out for People saved annually. In the summer, people go outside. They walk. They run. They bike. 2. Properly Restrain They chase Frisbees into the Children street. They might not be paying Riding in a child safety seat is much attention as they frolic in the natural for young children today. sunshine. As a driver, your job is to Be sure to tighten the belt to watch out for them. remove as much slack and restrict as much child seat movement as 9. Watch Out for Trucks much as possible. ALL the trucks - the ones that have large blind spots and take a long 3. Maintain Your Vehicle time to stop. Either pass the truck The last thing you want during or tuck in behind it. your summer road trip is a vehicle breakdown. At the very least, 10. Carry an Emergency change your oil and oil filter, top off Roadside Assistance Kit washer fluid, make sure your tires Despite your best preparations, are filled and have enough tread, your vehicle still could break down (don’t forget to set the proper during your road trip, or someone TPI!). Check that your windshield in your car could be injured. wipers are in good shape, and perhaps replace belts and hoses.
4. Get New Tires
Your car’s tires are among the most important contributors to vehicle safety. This is expensive, but it could save your life! Be sure your spare tire is in good shape, and that your car's jack and lug wrench are present and accounted for.
5. Check All Lights
They’re all important, so cycle through headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, hazard flashers and reversing lights.
6. Drive defensively
Be aware of what other drivers around you are doing and expect the unexpected.
7. Consider Renting a Car
If you own a vehicle that is not in fight-ready condition or simply does not get very good gas mileage, it may be worthwhile to MAy 2019
21
H EALTH MATTERS WITH DR. STEVE HARRIS, WHERE PAIN RELIEF COMES NATURALLY
I Can Feel My F�Y�!da!.lgain
illye White has been dealing with neuropathy for years. The pain and numbness in her legs had become so bad that she could barely stand in the shower long enough to rinse off. She was unable to feel her feet for over a year. That same pain kept her from getting her own groceries or going to her weekly Bible study. She was surprised when her family doctor suggested she see a chiropractor. Her daughter, a nurse practitioner, did some research and recom mended that Willye make an appointment for a consultation with Dr. Ste ve Harris. Dr. Harris offers a wide variety of chiropractic care modali ties and associated therapies to help people with chronic pain or to help improve their overall musculoskeletal function and health. Dr. Harris opened Sugar Land Health Center in 1982 and has been in practice for over 40 years. Known for incorporating new technology and techniques that complement his safe and holistic approach, Dr. Harris offers gentle and effective chiropractic care. Through his years as a chiropractor, Dr. Harris has developed his own methods and treatments for every layer of the body to promote healing. His natural, non invasive, gentle approach promotes relief from pain and healing. As a retired nurse, Willye appreciated Dr. Harris's holistic approach to treating his patients. She says, "He treats the entire person. Dr. Harris and his entire staff are incredibly friendly and helpful. He told me, 'I can't cure you, but I can make your life better.' I liked that." After a few treatments with Dr. Harris, Willye's flexibility increased to the point that she can touch her toes and she began to feel her feet again. Willye says, "Before I saw Dr. Harris, I couldn't stand for more than three minutes. The pain was so bad, it was like I was standing on sticks. My kids were grocery shop ping for me, and I couldn't go out to lunch with friends because it was too painful to sit that long."
Follow us! I) sugarlandhealthcenter @) @sugarlandhealthcenter You(D DrSteveHarrisDC Check out our new look!
www.sugarlandhealthcenter.com
■
i',_ 11 1. !�_ �_ ,,.!@-.·.-
I-�--->,·· ...,.;.
----
-----
.l�-.
"The neuropathy is there, but it is not like it was," says Willye. "I can grocery shop and put them away all at one time. I look forward to getting out with friends for lunch or a Bible study. I feel like I have more control of my life. Because of Dr. Harris, my quality of life has improved." Willye wants to remind all of us, "We don't have tomorrow, we only have today, and we have to make today the best we can."
New Patient Special Exam & Consultation ( $125 VALUE)
If you live in pain, we are here to help.
Does not apply to Medicare or Personal Injury. X-rays at regular charge. Additional charges may apply. CODE: WHITE19SIENNA Bring this publication to receive the offer.
Sugar Land Health Center 281-980-1050 3425 Highway 6, Suite 101 (behind McDonalds near Williams Trace Blvd) Sugar Land, TX 77478
KEEP YOU MOVING
ECRWSS RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMER
PRSRT STD U.S POSTAGE PAID DENVER CO PERMIT NO. 5377
without joint pain
Live life without joint pain. At Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine in Sugar Land, we know that joint pain affects every part of your life. With treatment plans customized for you, our specialists offer a full range of advanced nonsurgical and surgical techniques, including: • Innovative pain control methods • Physical therapy to improve mobility and range of motion • Latest technology, including minimally invasive surgical techniques • Presurgical education programs for joint replacement We can help you find relief from joint pain — so you can keep moving.
Long Meadows Farm Sugar Land
Sienna Plantation
Schedule an appointment: houstonmethodist.org/jointpain 281.201.0396