SugarSide Magazine – Issue #1 (May 2026)

SUGAR SIDE MAY 2026

STORIES FROM NEW TERRITORY

Fighting for Lela

STACY ZWERNEMAN’S JOURNEY THROUGH DIAGNOSIS AND HOPE

in this issue:

CHARLENE AVERY-TUREK A life dedicated to animals in need THE SUMMER CAMPS EDIT Sports • Arts • Outdoors • STEM • More IN THE KITCHEN WITH TARI OSAISAI A Nigerian fish roll recipe

From the

EDITOR N

early four years ago, my family and I arrived in New Territory and quickly realized something special about this place. The tree-lined streets and basketball hoops in most driveways are certainly part of the charm. But the people - it is the people who make this neighborhood what it is.

I have always been curious about people’s stories.

Before moving to Texas, I spent five years publishing a magazine in the Seychelles Islands.

What stayed with me most was how often a simple conversation or a social media post would leave me thinking: that is a story worth sharing.

SugarSide grew from that same feeling.

It has been on my mind for a while, even before I could fully define it, shaped by conversations, by

moments, and by the sense that there are so many stories here worth telling.

A neighborhood is made up of hundreds of them: the families who have lived here for years, the businesses that serve the community, the students growing up here, and the neighbors whose paths cross every day.

This first issue is a beginning. A way to introduce the idea and start building something for this community - one story at a time. Inside, you will find a little bit of everything: families, businesses, summer plans, and the people who make New Territory what it is.

For now, we are starting digitally while we explore the possibility of printing future editions. The goal is simple: to learn more about this community and help neighbors learn more about each other.

It also feels fitting that our first issue arrives in May. As a mother raising two boys here, a Mother’s Day edition makes this beginning especially meaningful.

There is more to come. For now, I am simply glad you are here.

— Marie-France Watson

In this issue

Artist spotlight - Ms Zamora

34 NT college kids

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Cover Story Stacy & Lela

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Summer Kids’ Camps

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29

Danielle West Photography

Understanding Autoimmune Encephalitis

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Student Services Board

42

May’s upcoming events

42

Meet Ruby

18

NT cats and dogs’ best friend, Charlene

39

Tari and a Nigerian fish roll recipe

on the cover Stacy and Lela Zwerneman, photo taken by Danielle West Photography SugarSide is published by Equator Line Media | sugarsidemagazine@gmail.com SUGARSIDE

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Cover Story

A

M THER’S FIGHT

Stacy Zwerneman’s journey through uncertainty, advocacy, and hope in the face of a rare diagnosis.

Photo: Danielle West Photography

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A family like any other On the surface, life in New Territory for Stacy and Craig Zwerneman looked much like it does for many families. Three daughters. School runs. Activities. The steady rhythm of everyday life.

Stacy never imagined she would build her life here. After moving frequently as a child, she spent her high school years in Sugar Land and was certain life would take her somewhere else, a different city, a different ZIP code.

“And here we are,” she says with a smile. “I love it now.”

Her eldest daughter, Lela who turns 13 this year, has always stood out.

“She’s something very special,” Stacy says.

“She’s brilliant, super creative… she has this musical talent that doesn’t come from me.”

Lela could hear a song once and figure it out on her own. Piano came naturally. So did reading and writing, both far beyond her years.

But alongside that brilliance, there were early signs that something wasn’t quite right.

When things didn’t add up It started with very subtle signs.

Around kindergarten, Lela began to struggle in ways that were hard to explain. At the time, it

“A child who once devoured books began to struggle with basic spelling.”

pains, and the natural adjustments of childhood.

But something felt different.

“She would go from zero to 100,” Stacy recalls,

Stacy, Craig, and their daughters Photo: Danielle West Photography

“just like that. And you’d think, what just happened?”

There were moments that were confusing, even frightening. Behaviors that didn’t quite make sense. Emotions that seemed to overwhelm her.

When the pandemic hit, something unexpected happened. Removed from everyday exposure to illness, Lela improved.

Looking back, it would become an important clue. At the time, it felt like relief, as if a rough phase had simply passed.

“We thought she had just grown out of it,” Stacy says.

was easy to attribute the changes to life transitions, including a new sibling, growing SUGARSIDE

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Regression after the pandemic When life returned to normal, the improvements faded, and the changes came back. This time, they were impossible to ignore.

By third grade, the shift was dramatic.

A child who once devoured books began to struggle with basic spelling. Her handwriting changed, letters uneven where they had once been steady. Simple math, once easy, became difficult.

At Brazos Bend Elementary, Lela’s teacher worked tirelessly to support her, finding creative ways to help her feel safe and continue learning. But even with that support, something deeper was unfolding.

At home, the family watched as Lela struggled to contain emotions that seemed to take over without warning.

“It was like she wasn’t herself,” Stacy quietly recalls. “You could see it… it just wasn’t her.”

intensified, and as physical changes began to appear, it became clear that something more was at play.

“We knew it was medical,” Stacy says. “We just didn’t know what.”

Eventually, a neurologist began to connect the dots, identifying patterns and possible triggers: infections, immune responses, a body reacting in ways it shouldn’t.

It’s called Autoimmune Encephalitis When the words finally came — Autoimmune Encephalitis — they did not come gently.

Stacy already knew what it meant.

A close family member had lived through it.

“I remember seeing the words and just feeling sick,” she says. “I knew how serious it was.”

Searching for answers What followed was a long and complicated journey through appointments, tests, and uncertainty.

At first, the focus leaned toward behavioral or psychological explanations. But as symptoms

“When the words finally finally came Autoimmune Encephalitis they did not come gently.”

Lela during treatment at the hospital.

Autoimmune Encephalitis, (AE) is a condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the brain. It can affect behavior, memory, cognition, and emotional regulation, often in ways that are sudden and severe.

For Stacy, the diagnosis was both an answer and the beginning of an entirely new battle.

Fighting for treatment Treatment was not straightforward.

The care Lela needed was complex, and expensive.

One of the key therapies, IVIG (intravenous immunoglobulin), involves infusions made from the plasma of thousands of donors, designed to help regulate the immune system.

But accessing it meant navigating a system built on checklists, and Lela’s condition did not fit neatly into those boxes.

“You’re fighting for your child, and at the same time you’re fighting insurance,” Stacy says. “It’s constant.”

Despite medical recommendations, approvals were delayed or denied. Each step required persistence, documentation, and, often, escalation.

Eventually, Lela received her first treatment in the hospital, before insurance approval was secured.

“Her father and I just said yes. We’ll figure the rest out later,” Stacy remembers.

Because when it comes to your child, what is the alternative?

The weight of it all The impact extended beyond medical care.

There were younger siblings at home to support. A household to hold together. A child who needed constant care, attention, and understanding.

And through it all, uncertainty.

“You don’t have the luxury of stopping,” Stacy says.

“You just keep going.”

Stacy had to step away from her tutoring business to focus fully on Lela’s needs and adjusting life as necessary to meet the demands of a journey she had never anticipated.

“There were younger siblings at home to support. A household to hold together. A child who needed constant care, attention, and understanding.”

Stacy and her three girls.

Photo: Danielle West Photography

The anchors Through it all, Stacy and Craig have not carried this alone.

Her family, based in Austin, have been a constant source of strength. They have created a space where she can exhale, where she can process what she is going through without needing to explain it.

“They just show up,” she says. “Sometimes before I even ask.”

Closer to home, friends have done the same. A phone call is often all it takes before someone is at her door, ready to sit with her, or simply to lighten the weight of the day.

That circle of support has extended into the wider community.

Through an effort known as Lela’s Pack, friends came together in a show of support and awareness. T-shirts were worn across the community, a visible reminder that Lela was not facing this alone.

“I didn’t realize how much it would mean,” Stacy shares. “Seeing those shirts around the neighborhood… it meant everything to her, and to me.”

In the middle of everything, these moments have mattered.

They have provided not just help, but a reminder that even in the hardest seasons, no family stands entirely on its own.

“Through it all, Stacy and Craig have not carried this alone”

Photos Top - Stacy with her friends, Erin and Tara Right - Stacy’s family in Austin

intensified, and as physical changes began to Lela’s Lela’s Pack Pack in the in the neighborhood neighborhood

Finding a Way Forward Today, there is progress.

Treatment is ongoing. It is not immediate, and it is not simple. But there are moments, real, meaningful moments where Lela thrives.

“She’ll say to me, ‘I don’t want to do this, (take her medication) but I know I need it,’” Stacy shares.

“She understands now.”

That understanding, from both mother and daughter, has clearly become part of the healing process.

With the right support system in place, from doctors to therapists to school, life has begun to find a new rhythm.

At WIDE School, which Lela currently attends, that support has made a meaningful difference. The school understands what Lela is going through and works with her, adapting when needed and creating a space where she can continue learning.

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“Seeing those shirts around the neighborhood… neighborhood…‌ it meant everything to her, and to me.”

More than a diagnosis For Stacy, this journey has become more than a personal fight.

It has opened her eyes to a wider reality, one where families navigate complex systems, advocate tirelessly, and often do so without the fraction of support they need.

“I realized I’m only able to speak up because I 7

have support,” she says. “There are so many families who don’t.”

That realization has led to something more. A growing commitment to advocacy, awareness, and change for families affected by Autoimmune Encephalitis.

Stacy is now working alongside her father to help shape potential Texas state legislation aimed at addressing gaps in access to treatment.

“Stacy is now working alongside her father to help shape potential Texas state legislation aimed at addressing gaps in access to treatment. ”

It is a complex and unfamiliar process, but one she has stepped into with determination.

She welcomes the support of those with legal expertise who can help move this work forward.

Looking ahead For now, the focus is on progress.

Treatment continues, with good weeks, hard weeks and everything in-between. The goal is remission, a point where Lela will no longer need ongoing treatment and can move forward without it.

It is not a straight path, but it is one they are walking with more understanding and hope than before.

At its heart, this is a story about a mother who has learned to navigate uncertainty, advocate fiercely, and show up, every single day.

And through it all, Stacy holds on to what she has always known about her daughter.

“She’s gonna do big things in life.”

Taking Lela’s fight to the Capitol.

Taking Lela’s fight to the Capitol 5

Photo: Danielle West Photography

to my

MOM

Lela shares a few words for Stacy

Dear Mommy, You are the best mom I could hope for, and no one can take your place. There is only one you! Your kindness, gratefulness, al the things that make you the wonderful mom you are, can never be duplicated by anyone else.

Happy Mother’s Day!!

Your favorite daughter, Lela

What makes your mom special?

What makes my mom special is that she works so hard to make sure I am free of my chronic i lness.

Every time I turn around, she is usualy working on something to help me. My mom is the best mom I could ever wish for!

What do you love doing together?

Me and my mom love to garden together. Well, at least I love to help her. I go to the garden store and pick out so many beautiful flowers! I recently got my mom into audio books. We listen to them every day on the way to school.

If your mom was your age, do you think you would be friends?

Yes, we definitely would become friends. My mom told me she liked the same animals as I did when she was younger!! We both played with our stuffed animals too. We wouldn’t just become friends, we would be best friends.

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learning about the world O N E M O NT H AT A T I M E

F R O M E T SY blue/green edition pink/purple edition

Taskmaster Planner introduces kids (7-10 years) to meaningful days each month what they are, why they matter, and how they can take part

Along the way, they learn to plan their own time.

– Simple monthly layout – 5 observance days, clearly explained – Designed for kids to use independently

Print it. Hand it over. Let them lead.

kids camp S

ummer is just around the corner, bringing with it a fresh opportunity for kids to explore new interests, build confidence, and make lasting friendships.

Whether they are trying something for the first time or building on a passion, summer camps offer the perfect space to learn, create, and grow.

Browse through our selection of camps below to find the right fit for your child. Simply click on each photo to access more details, including flyers and registration information.

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kids

ATHLETICS/SPORTS

camp Summer Soccer Camps Age range: 6-16 Dates: from June 1st/ 8th /15th /22nd Duration: week-long/ 9am - 12pm Location: Sandhill Field

SOCCER

Led by a UEFA A licensed coach, this summer camp delivers a structured, professional training experience inspired by top European football methodologies. Players develop technical skills, tactical awareness, and game confidence through highlevel drills, small-sided games, and competitive match scenarios.

Lead Through Athletics Age range: K-9th grade Dates: from June 1st - August 7th Duration: daily to full summer Location: 4 Quarters Gym, 1646 Blaisdale Rd Ste 1100

BASKETBALL

High-energy basketball training combines skill development, team challenges, and competitive play in a dynamic camp environment. Beyond the court, campers engage in leadership activities, hands-on STEM projects, and a full schedule of diverse summer experiences.

Ninja-Kid Warrior Age range: 4-13 Dates: from June 1st - August 10th Duration: daily or weekly/ 9am to 3pm Location: 2595 Cordes Drive, Sugar Land

NINJA-KIDS SUGARSIDE

Campers tackle obstacle courses and warped walls while enjoying a high-energy, action-packed environment. Each day blends structured activities with free play, including engaging classes, games, skill-building sessions, and team-based challenges.

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kids

CREATIVE ARTS

camp Dance Du Coeur Age range: 3-11 Dates: from June 8th - August 8th Duration: Mondays-Thursdays/ 9am - 12pm and 1 - 4 pm Location: 19875 Southwest Freeway

DANCE

High-energy dance camps featuring themes like K-Pop Demon Hunters, Moving with Bluey, and jazz and hip hop in a fun, engaging environment. Each camp blends movement, games, and creativity while building confidence and performance skills, ending with a showcase for family and friends.

Inspiration Stage Age range: 4-16 Dates: June and July Duration: week-long camps/ 8am - 12pm and 1-5pm Location: Sugar Land Town Square

THEATRE

Choose from 20 exciting theatre camps where creativity, confidence, and performance skills come to life through full musical productions. Campers build acting, singing, and teamwork skills in a fun, high-energy environment where imagination thrives and every performer shines.

iWRITE Age range: 9-12 Dates: from June 15th- 18th Duration: week-long/ 9am - 3pm Location: SheSpace – 2799 Katy Freeway

WRITING SUGARSIDE

Campers learn to create compelling characters and craft dynamic storylines, building strong plots with engaging conflicts and resolutions. Through sensory writing, editing, and creative activities, they develop storytelling skills while bringing their ideas to life through words and art.

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kids

CREATIVE ARTS

camp Cordovan Art School Age range: 5-16 Dates: from June 1st - August 11th Duration: Full Day or 1/2 Day / extended care available Location: 3219 Hwy 6, Sugar Land

MULTI-MEDIA

Award-winning art camps where creativity comes to life through a wide range of mediums, from painting and drawing to clay and mixed media. Campers explore fun, themed projects in an engaging environment, building artistic skills while expressing their imagination and creating unique works.

Gordon Education Age range: 9-17 Dates: June 8th through to July 17th Duration: week-long camps/ 8am - 3pm Location: Various locations in Houston

FILM MAKING

Hands-on filmmaking camps where campers create historical, narrative, and documentary films while exploring storytelling and real-world themes. Participants write, direct, and collaborate on original projects, developing creative, technical, and storytelling skills from concept to screen.

Sugar Land Art Centre Age range: 5-14 Dates: from June 1st - August 6th Duration: half or full days/ 9am to 12pm or 1 to 4pm Location: Sugar Land Art Center, 104 Industrial Blvd. Suite Q

ART & LEGO SUGARSIDE

Creative camps combining art and LEGO-based activities, offering a fun and engaging environment. The art camp has different themes every week and campers get to use paints, clay, watercolor and more to experience many mediums!

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kids

GENERAL/ OUTDOOR

camp Sticky Fingers Cooking Age range: 4 and up Dates: from June 1st - 4th and 8th - 11th Duration: Four-day camps/ 3 -4pm Location: The Seth Building, 6920 Brisbane Ct, Sugar Land

CULINARY

Hands-on cooking camps where campers explore globally inspired recipes while building confidence and essential kitchen skills. With a dash of S.T.E.A.M. and a pinch of culture, they learn to cook through engaging, hands-on experiences using plant-forward, 100% nut-free recipes.

Hill Country Fishing Age range: 7-15 (boys and girls) Dates: June 2nd through to August 01st Duration: Monday to Thursday/ 9am - 1pm Location: Austin, Georgetown, New Braunfels, (+2 more)

FISHING

Hands-on outdoor camps where young anglers learn fishing fundamentals, water safety, and environmental awareness.

Guided by expert instructors, campers build skills from knottying to casting techniques in a fun, supportive environment that encourages confidence and connection with nature.

iCODE Age range: 5-17 Dates: from May 25th - August 7th Duration: week-long/ 9am to 4pm Location: 4899 Highway 6, Suite 113C, Missouri City

STEM & CODING SUGARSIDE

Technology-focused camps where students build digital skills while learning to navigate the online world safely and responsibly. Through guided projects and collaborative activities, they develop creativity, teamwork, and problemsolving skills while creating and exploring with modern tools.

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Neighborhood Volunteer

Charlene Avery-Turek the story of

A life dedicated to animals in need

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I

t took more than three weeks to get Buster Brown off the streets.

During that time, he was seen running across New Territory and beyond, through neighborhood streets, near busy roads, and even as far as Telfair and the area around Aliana. He was constantly on the move.

While most people saw a dog on the run, Charlene Avery-Turek saw a situation that wasn’t going to resolve itself.

She began reaching out, connecting with residents, tracking sightings, and piecing together his route. Feeding stations were set up where he returned most often. Trust had to be built slowly.

Morning after morning, before sunrise, she showed up with food, slip leads, and a plan.

Then, one cold morning, along with Carol Hill, another new Territory resident and with the help of an experienced volunteer trapper, Buster Brown finally went into the trap.

“I’ve never been so relieved to get that dog off the street,” she tells SugarSide, in tears.

That moment says a great deal about the kind of person she is.

Because in New Territory, when an animal is in trouble, Charlene is one of the people who shows up.

Nearly 20 years ago, not long after moving to New Territory, the first stray animal found its way to her home. Then another. And another.

“I’ve always been a magnet for animals,” she says.

“This is not a one-person job” What started with feeding an injured cat and helping a small kitten quickly became something more. Through neighbors and early

Charlene and Buster Brown

community groups, she was introduced to others doing the same kind of work, quietly helping, organizing, and learning as they went.

That is how it began.

What many people do not see is what this work really involves. It is not a single act of kindness, but an ongoing system of care built on time, coordination, and trust. Traps are set late at night or before sunrise and checked early in the morning. Animals are transported to veterinary clinics, sometimes across long distances, then brought back to recover in spare rooms, garages, or wherever space is available.

“It takes neighbors coming together,” she

explains. “This is not a one-person job.”

That effort has grown into something more connected, though still entirely volunteer-led.

Today, New Territory has its own informal network of residents who help reunite lost pets, care for community animals, and support one another in the process.

Through trap, neuter, vaccinate, return, she helps prevent overpopulation while allowing these animals to remain in the areas they know.

It is steady, ongoing work that requires patience, resources, and consistency.

“Helping does not end with a single rescue.

It becomes part of everyday life” Some of that work traces back years. Early community members like Betty Lozada helped introduce trap and neuter practices in the neighborhood. Others, including the late Gail Cooper-Evans and Laurie Angert Walker, built the early communication channels that allowed neighbors to connect, share information, and respond quickly when animals were in need.

Today, that network continues through people like Amanda Dailing and Janie Hollywood, who help coordinate efforts, scan found pets, and respond when animals are spotted. It is not formal, but it is effective.

Through local social media groups, neighbors share sightings and coordinate in real time. A found dog might be scanned for a microchip within minutes. A missing pet can be back home within hours.

“We have our own little network,” she says. “And we do it every day.”

Helping does not end with a single rescue. It becomes part of everyday life. Much of her time is spent caring for community cats, animals that are not owned but still rely on someone to ensure they are fed, monitored, and protected.

Charlene speaking in front of City Council Photo: William Ferguson

As her work deepened, it extended beyond individual rescues into advocacy. What began at the neighborhood level has grown into something much broader. Today, she follows and engages with decisions made at both the city and state level, understanding that policies around animal welfare directly shape what happens on the ground.

That shift came when it became clear that many of the challenges she faced were not just about individual animals, but about systems. One example of that work came when she began advocating for changes to how the city approached community cats. At the time, trap, neuter, return practices were not permitted under city ordinance. Rather than accept that, she began speaking up. She attended meetings, worked with others, and brought forward data and real experiences from the community.

“I went to every meeting that I could,” she says.

Those efforts became more structured. She met

“...many of the challenges she faced were not just about individual animals, but about systems. ” with city and shelter officials, built relationships, and contributed directly to the language that would shape local policy. She worked closely with local leaders, including her city council representative, Sanjay Singhal, to ensure community concerns were heard and understood.

“I personally helped write parts of the ordinance,” she explains.

After two years of persistence, the change was adopted. Trap, neuter, return is now permitted.

Often referred to as TNVR, the approach is simple in concept but powerful in impact. Cats are humanely trapped, spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and then returned to the area where they were found. Instead of contributing to overpopulation, they help stabilize it, preventing new litters and reducing the number of animals entering already overwhelmed shelters.

“That was one of my most shining moments,” she says. “It was a fight, but it mattered.”

This is not just policy on paper. It shapes the work she does every day. It allows her to care for community cats in a way that is both humane and sustainable, and it gives others in the community a practical way to respond when

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animals are in need.

Her work with city and shelter officials continues. Advocacy is simply part of what she does. What happens in meeting rooms ultimately shapes what happens on the streets.

Her message to the community is simple but important. Responsible pet ownership can prevent many of the situations she encounters every day. Microchipping pets, keeping collars on, securing fences, and bringing animals inside during extreme weather are small actions that make a significant difference.

Taking the time to understand a pet’s needs before bringing it home matters just as much.

“These small things,” she says, “they matter more than people realize.”

And yet, she does not dwell on what has gone wrong. She focuses on what can be done. In New Territory, stories like Buster Brown’s do not happen by chance. They happen when a community comes together and refuses to look away.

If you would like to support animal welfare efforts in New Territory, start small. Share a post. Check a gate. Help a neighbor. Stay informed.

It all adds up. And sometimes, like it did for Buster Brown, it means bringing them safely back home.

Editor’s note: Charlene mentioned many individuals across the community and city levels who contribute to this work. While we are not able to name them all here, one thing is clear: it takes a collective effort to ensure animals are cared for and protected.

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Business Profile daniellewesthoustonphotography.com

Thr ugh Thr ugh her her Lens Lens DANIELLE WEST MATTERS MOST

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ON

CAPTURING

WHAT

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After building a career in law in Canada, Danielle West is now a photographer bringing a thoughtful, deeply human approach to capturing family life, one moment at a time.

SS: What brought you from Canada to Sugar Land?

DW: My husband works in pediatric cancer research and was recruited by Texas Children’s Hospital. It’s not the kind of work you say no to, so we go where it takes us.

In Canada, I was actually a lawyer for about 17 years. I loved it, but starting over in the U.S. legal system would have meant going back to the beginning, and that’s a long road.

Photography had always been something I did on the side, so I decided to take the leap and build something of my own.

SS: That’s quite a shift. How has the transition been for you and your family?

DW: It’s been really good. Americans are incredibly welcoming, which makes a big difference. And when you have kids, it’s easier to build connections through schools and activities.

Of course, there are adjustments. Cultural differences, the climate. We definitely traded skiing winters for something very different. But you learn to adapt. You find new ways to enjoy where you are.

SS: You mentioned photography was always part of your life. What drew you to it?

DW: I’ve always been creative. In high school, I painted and drew, and I even considered art school at one point. I ended up studying psychology and then law, but I never left that creative side behind.

Photography became that outlet. I’ve been doing it for over a decade now. I love the creative process, but I also love working with people. That’s why I focus on families, kids, babies, even pets.

SS: Your work focuses on family, maternity, and newborn photography. Why those moments?

DW: Because those are the moments that matter most. I’m really interested in connection, the relationships between people.

Photography gives you a way to capture that in a very real, very lasting way.

SS: You’re a mother yourself. Does that influence the way you capture families?

DW: It shapes everything. I create the kind of images I would want my own children to have of us, moments they can return to. I want them to

“The photos people care about most are the ones that feel real.” have images of me looking at them with love and of the small, everyday moments that might otherwise go unnoticed.

I think as a mother, you become very aware of how quickly time moves. You start to understand just how important those moments are.

So when I’m working with families, I’m not just thinking about how the photo looks. I’m thinking about what it will mean to them years from now.

SS: On your website, you say you’re “not big on trends.” What does timeless photography mean to you?

DW: There are always trends. Stylized setups, props, themes that come and go. They can be

fun, but they don’t always last.

For me, it’s about connection. It’s about capturing those small, authentic moments between people.

I’ll guide families through little prompts or games, something that makes them laugh or interact naturally. That’s where the magic is. A parent whispering something kind to their child.

A shared joke. A look.

Those are the images people will care about years from now.

SS: Family photoshoots can sometimes feel stressful. How do you navigate that experience?

DW: Preparation is a big part of it. I ask families questions beforehand, what their kids like, their personalities, the dynamics.

During the session, I adapt. A five-year-old who loves Paw Patrol is going to get a very different approach than a teenager.

It’s also about reading the room. Sometimes I take pressure off the parents by stepping in and directing things. Sometimes it’s about making a child feel like they’re the star of the show.

“Those small, everyday moments are the ones that matter most.”

Photos of the Zwerneman sisters with Bailey (top) and Pepper taken during our cover photoshoot

(left and bottom photos) daniellewesthoustonphotography.com

The goal is to create an environment where people can relax, because that’s when the real moments happen.

SS: You’re often behind the camera capturing very intimate family moments. What is that like for you?

DW: It’s incredibly rewarding. I love building relationships with clients. They often become friends. And one of my favorite parts is seeing their reaction when they view their photos for the first time.

When you see someone tear up because of an image, because it means something to them, that’s everything. Those photos become part of their daily lives. They ’re on their walls, on their phones. They become part of how they remember their lives.

SS: Is there a particular experience that has stayed with you?

DW: I volunteer with The Heart Gallery, that photographs children in foster care who are waiting to be adopted and tells their stories.

It’s incredibly meaningful work, but also very emotional. These kids just want to be seen, to be chosen, to be loved. If a photograph can help create that connection, if it helps a family see a child and say, “That’s the one,” then that’s something really special to be part of.

SS: What do you hope families feel when they look back at your photos years from now?

DW: The connection, the love, the little moments that made up their everyday lives.

Because those are the things that stay.

To see more of Danielle’s work, visit: daniellewesthoustonphotography.com

the the

COLLEGE chapter chapter

The College Chapter checks in with New Territory college students as they navigate life beyond home. In this issue, we hear from Max at Penn State and Savanna at the University of Alabama.

Are you an NT student studying in the U.S. or abroad? We’d love for you to share a bit of your story.

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why journalism why journalism

I've always been interested in people and what motivates them, who is behind their success, what obstacles they've had to overcome to get to where they are, etc. This major will hopefully put me in a position to share encouraging stories with others, which will hopefully give others hope and inspiration.

favourite thing favourite thing about about college college

I have a few favorite moments. One was making it to the college football playoffs my freshman season. It was such an amazing experience to be part of and to share with my teammates.

This past season, we played our bowl game at Yankee Stadium, which was also really cool — getting to play in such an iconic venue.

Overall, my favorite part of college is the opportunity to be around so many people my age. My teammates are a lot of fun, and it’s really nice being around guys who share similar work ethic and goals. Getting to know other athletes and students has also been great.

I love the freedom of stepping outside my door and always having someone to hang out with or talk to. I realize I may never be in a situation like this again once I graduate.

what he what he misses misses most most about about home home

I miss my dog Bob and my family. I also miss the warm weather in the winter. The snow was fun at first, but I'm not sure I will ever get used to how long it stays cold in PA.

tip for tip for getting getting ready ready for for college college

I would say my biggest tip is learning how to clean up after yourself (laundry, dishes, etc.) without a parent constantly reminding you, because in college no one is doing it for you, and the mess can quickly spiral out of control!

Max Granville

College: Penn State University, PA Year: Sophomore Major: Journalism

I’d love

Savanna Lenardson

College: University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL Year: Sophomore Major: General Business, going into entrepreneurship or marketing why journalism why journalism I chose my major because I started taking business classes in high school and quickly realized I loved it.

favourite thing favourite thing about about college college

My favorite thing about college has been meeting new people and learning more about who I am.

are you are you involved involved in in any any activities? activities?

I’m involved in Greek life as a member of Delta Gamma

what does what does she she miss miss most most about home about home I miss my family, friends, and pets the most.

tip for tip for getting getting ready ready for for college college Don’t be afraid of rejection because it’s just redirection.

to give a shout out to Lenards my mom on, and , Kim to my D sister/g e lta Gam randma , Barbra ma Grassan them a , wishin Happy M g other’s Day!

Health

understanding

Autoimmune Encephalitis Contributed

Imagine your child suddenly waking up one day not knowing who you are, refusing to eat out of fear of being poisoned, going into a rage at the suggestion of getting dressed, failing math and spelling tests for the first time, reading only picture books, and when you ask him/her to draw a clock, this is what he/she drew:

Your child’s brain is on fire.

Autoimmune Encephalitis (AE) is a condition where the body's immune system, meant to fight infections, mistakenly attacks the brain (autoimmune), causing it to become inflamed (encephalitis).

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WHAT GOES WRONG IN THE BODY? The immune system is made up of three major components: B-Cells, T-Cells, and antibodies.

When an invader like an infection enters the body, B-Cells identify the invader as “bad” or “good” and call in the T-Cells to destroy anything labeled “bad.’

All of us are aware of what this destruction process feels like - fevers, sore throat, runny nose, or feeling crummy when we are sick.

This is inflammation the body creates to make a hostile environment for the invader. When the invader is successfully destroyed, the B-cells call off the attack and then make an antibody identifying the invader as “bad” so it is immediately destroyed the next time it invades the body.

In autoimmune conditions, this process is scrambled: B-cells erroneously label the body’s own healthy tissue as "bad" and constantly call for a T-cell attack. In AE, this attack happens in the brain, causing continuous inflammation that disconnects neural pathways and blocks signals responsible for communication. These disrupted signals manifest in ways that impact nearly every part of a child’s life altering their behavior, personality, sleep, coordination, cognition, sensory processing, memory, movement, and autonomic functions like blood pressure control and sugar regulation.

WHO GETS AE? AE is a rare condition affecting 1 out of ever 100,000 individuals. AE affects people of all ages but the most common forms primarily impact children and young adults. Females are affected four times more often than males. AE occurs across all racial and ethnic groups, with a slight increase in African Americans.

in WHAT DOES AE LOOK LIKE? AE can look dramatically different from one

child to the next, which is part of what makes it so difficult to recognize. The hallmark is AE symptoms come on suddenly with no warning and usually no triggers. Common symptoms include sudden onset of: ·Personality or behavior changes including aggression, irritability, or emotional outbursts ·OCD-like behavior such as paranoia, obsessions, food aversions, or need for routine ·Developmental regression, school/cognitive difficulties, speech impediments ·Seizures or involuntary jerking movements, writhing or tics ·Sleep disturbances or insomnia ·Hallucinations, delusions, and suicidal thoughts/behavior (a life threatening emergency) AE can also cause catatonia or coma in severe cases.

“AE can look dramatically different from one child to the next, which is part of what makes it so difficult to recognize.” recognize.”‌

Young children are more likely to present with seizures, movement problems, and uncharacteristic tantrums. Teenagers more often have psychiatric symptoms that are frequently mistaken for a mental health crisis.

While sometimes triggered by viral infections like herpes, chicken pox, or the flu, often there is no identifiable trigger.

AE is diagnosed through a multitude of diagnostic tests including clinical picture, lumbar punctures, EEGs, brain MRIs, and blood tests looking for either inflammation in the brain, seizure activity, or presence of antibodies targeting the brain.

WHY IS AE SO HARD TO DIAGNOSE? Because AE symptoms often resemble psychiatric illnesses, behavioral disorders, or even drug use, children and teens are frequently misdiagnosed, delaying treatment for years. A child is often sent to a psychiatrist, disciplined at school, or labeled

“A child is often sent to a psychiatrist, disciplined at school, or labeled as oppositional before a medical cause is considered.” as oppositional before a medical cause is considered. This is why parents need to be aware

that sudden onset of symptoms could point to a non-psychiatric cause and push for a complete work up looking for brain inflammation.

There are also hundreds of antibodies that can cause AE. Not all have been identified yet which makes diagnosing AE difficult. Most children with AE have normal tests. Normal tests do not always mean nothing is wrong.

WHAT CONDITIONS ARE SIMILAR TO AE? AE belongs to a class of conditions called neuroinflammatory diseases that also cause inflammation in the brain. The four most common conditions that can look like AE are: Infectious Encephalitis: Similar presentation to AE but caused by a virus or bacteria (e.g., West Nile Virus, Herpes).

PANS/PANDAS: Pediatric Acute Neuropsychiatric Syndrome and its subset, PANDAS (associated with Strep), are highlighted by the sudden onset of OCD-like behavior following an infectious trigger. PANS often spares cognition and is rarely associated with seizures.

Lupus: Systemic lupus erythematosus can cause brain inflammation (confusion, seizures, psychosis) but is also associated with systemic signs of inflammation throughout the body like joint pain, fevers, rashes, and kidney problems.

Psychiatric Disorders: AE overlaps with conditions like OCD, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. The hallmark that separates AE is the sudden, dramatic onset of symptoms, while psychiatric illnesses usually have a more gradual onset.

HOW IS AE TREATED? AE is treatable, especially when caught early.

The goal is to quiet the immune system and reduce brain inflammation using immunosuppressant medications like high-dose steroids, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), and Rituximab. These are given as IV infusions, typically monthly or twice a year. When

diagnosis is delayed and AE is not caught early, it can take years to treat and becomes difficult to send into remission. AE can relapse. While most children recover, there is a subset whose AE becomes a life-long chronic illness.

Because AE impacts so many different parts of the brain, a multitude of support medications are also needed including antiseizure medications, antipsychotics, sleep aids, migraine meds, and other medications specific to a child’s deficits.

Children with AE also require therapy services to relearn lost skills, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, brain biofeedback, and counseling. Peer support groups and camp programs can also be life impacting for kids living with chronic illnesses.

A major obstacle contributing to treatment delays are insurance denials. Because AE is rare, pediatric treatment protocols are often not included in

“When diagnosis is delayed and AE is not caught early, it can take years to treat and becomes difficult to send into remission.” insurance company formularies and treatments that are included are extremely expensive. Both of these reasons lead to high denial rates. The Texas Legislature and Sugar Land’s own Dr. Suleman Lalani are working hard to change laws to protect

Early Signs Parents Shouldn’t Ignore Sudden, dramatic personality changes or emotional instability Sudden onset of OCD-like behaviors New onset seizures Sudden onset of involuntary movements or loss of motor skills Rapid decline in school performance Confusion, memory loss, or altered consciousness following an infection kids with rare autoimmune illnesses from unethical insurance denials. denials.

Delaying treatment by even 30 days is associated with significantly worse outcomes.

Early treatment reduces long term brain damage, shortens hospital stays, and improves chances for a full recovery.

WHAT ARE THE LONG-TERM IMPACTS OF AE AND WHAT SHOULD FAMILIES KNOW? Even after clinical recovery, AE can result in lasting deficits. Research shows 45% of children have cognitive impairment, 70% experience academic difficulties, and 92% require ongoing rehabilitation services. About one-third will continue to experience

psychiatric symptoms like anxiety and depression years later.

“A major obstacle contributing to treatment delays are insurance denials.”

How can you support families affected by AE? Offer concrete help like meals, house/yardwork, watching siblings, etc Show up for the family or the child, just acknowledging what they’re going through is huge.

Offer emotional support to parents and siblings Explain the impact of chronic illness and AE to your children.

Plan activities in an environment the child can handle. Learn their triggers and limits.

Participate in AE advocacy

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Most children with AE develop neurosensory processing deficits.They are continuously bombarded with sensory input they cannot regulate. This leads to overstimulation, exhaustion, and is a major contributor for outbursts. Kids with AE thrive more in quiet, calm environments.

AE can be devastating for families. The unpredictability of the illness, severity of symptoms, and frequency behavior outbursts make it extremely hard on parents and sibling.

Siblings often bear the brunt of the outbursts and do not understand what is going on.

Counseling services for the entire family can be highly beneficial.

In school, children often need individualized education plans, reduced course loads, and ongoing neuropsychological support.

Families with AE need a lot of community support. The most important thing you can do is to acknowledge the struggle and impact AE has on the family. Offer concrete help, check in on the family often, and support the siblings.

Plan outings/playdates including the child in an environment they can handle. Learn their triggers and limits. Explain AE and the impact it has on the child to your children. Kids with AE worry about losing their friends. You can also learn about AE and participate in local advocacy. These small steps will mean the world to families affected by AE. With treatment and support, children living with AE like Lela can experience normal lives and become independent happy adults.

Join Lela’s Pack here

Find out more about AE

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Artist Spotlight

O N L Y

Y L N O

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M II N M N UU TT EE SS

Maya Zamora helps her students find confidence through art

E

ight hundred students pass through her classroom. Over the course of a week, every child at Brazos Bend Elementary (BBE) will sit at one of Maya Zamora’s tables, pick up a pencil, a brush, or a marker, and be given something different in a structured school day: space to create.

It is a quiet kind of responsibility and, in its own way, one that carries weight.

For many of those students, those 45 minutes are where the rules loosen, where there is no single right answer, and where the pressure to get it right gives way to expression and curiosity.

As the school’s only art teacher, she carries all of it: the energy of the youngest learners discovering creativity, the hesitation of older students who have already decided they are not good at art, and the delicate task of reminding them otherwise.

“...those 45 minutes are where the rules loosen, where there is no single right answer, and where the pressure to get it right gives way to expression and curiosity.”

Ms Zamora, as many students and parents know her, grew up in Brownsville, Texas, a city along the border, before moving to attend the University of Houston. What began as a college move became something more permanent, as she built her life in Houston and, three years ago, stepped into the BBE art room.

But that is not where her art journey began.

“I started creating art when I was in elementary, and I had a great elementary art teacher,” she recalls. “Then in middle school, I shifted more toward dance and theater. I was very into fine arts in general.”

For a time, it was dance that took center stage.

It was serious, competitive, and something she planned to pursue beyond high school, until it wasn’t.

“I completely broke the top part of my foot. I was in a wheelchair. I had to relearn how to walk,” she says. “So I just shifted toward visual arts. I took AP art, and my teacher told me, you just need to continue this.”

It was not a dramatic shift, but a natural transition from one form of expression to another.

Teaching, too, was always part of the picture.

Both of her parents were educators. Her life, as she puts it, had always been shaped by classrooms, by guidance, and by people who showed up and made an impact.

Now, she does the same in her own classroom, where the approach is intentional, with no pressure to replicate, no insistence on perfect outcomes, and encouragement to explore.

“It’s a calming space,” she says. “There’s no sense of someone telling you this is the right way to do it.”

That philosophy is not accidental. It is a response to what she sees happening as children grow.

“You’ll realize kids are really creative,” she explains. “Usually around third grade is when they start limiting themselves, because there’s

a right and wrong way to do a lot of things.”

In her classroom, she challenges that.

“I never want to put their artwork into a bubble and say this is what it’s supposed to look like,” she says. “I want to teach them how to be an artist instead of copying my example.”

If a flower is meant to be blue but a student chooses purple, that choice is respected on her watch. If a drawing does not match expectation, it is not seen as failure, but as a different perspective.

In that space, she continues to encourage her students, reminding them that creativity is not something reserved for a few, but something that belongs to all of them.

“I never want to put their artwork into a bubble”

The contrast between her classroom and the rest of the school day is not lost on her.

Students move from subject to subject, often with clear answers, clear expectations, and constant evaluation. By the time they arrive at art, many are carrying that weight.

“When they come to us, it’s only 45 minutes,” she says. “But that’s their time to be a kid.”

It is a simple statement, but it carries meaning.

In that time, they draw aliens, astronauts, princesses, and patterns. They experiment.

They try without knowing if it will work. And that matters.

Outside of the classroom, her own creative practice is quieter, but still present. She sketches in notebooks, designs digitally, takes photographs, and visits museums when she can, often taking advantage of the city ’s free museum days on Thursdays. She stays connected to other artists, sharing ideas and gathering inspiration.

For now, in this final month of the school year, her focus remains where it has always been: on her students. On those 800 children who rotate through her classroom each week, each one carrying a different level of confidence, curiosity, or doubt.

But change is around the corner.

A glimpse into Ms Zamora’s own creative practice, from sketchbook doodles to photography.

This summer, she is moving to Tyler, Texas, where she will begin a new chapter teaching middle school digital art. It is a shift she is both excited about and ready for.

“I’m really pushing myself to try something different,” she says.

There will be fewer students, a new age group, a new medium, and a new challenge. But the core of what she brings will remain the same: the belief that creativity is not about getting it right, the understanding that expression matters, and the commitment to making sure every child leaves the classroom believing they are capable of creating something of their own.

And for the hundreds of students who have passed through her classroom, that lesson will last far longer than 45 minutes.

“Creativity is not something reserved for a few, it belongs to all of them.”

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Student Services Board

This space is dedicated to the teens and college students in our community who are building skills, taking initiative, and offering their services right here in New Territory, and nearby neighborhoods.

From babysitting and tutoring to pet care and coaching, these small (free) ads connect local families with reliable, familiar faces — all with parent-approved listings.

Text only: 346-467-8357

Backyard

SOCCER

with Reece Watson

AHFC ECNL/RL | AHS Varsity | Seychelles U17 National Team

*only serves NT residents and homes

30 minute technical training sessions for 4 -12 year olds New Territory | weekends only

Have a student-run service to share?

We’d love to hear from you.

Ask a parent or guardian to reach out for submission information. sugarsidemagazine@gmail.com

Culinary

Kitchen I N

T H E

W I T H

‌

Tari Osaisai

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T

ari Osaisai has called New Territory home for the past 10 years, bringing with her a rich mix of cultural experiences from Nigeria, New York, Canada, and Texas. Originally from Nigeria, she came to the U.S. as a child and spent much of her life in the Bronx before eventually moving to Texas after living in Canada.

Today, Tari works in category management within supply chain for a healthcare hospitalist system. She is happily married with children, and she and her husband recently celebrated their wedding anniversary. Outside of work and family life, Tari enjoys gardening and reading, especially historical Chinese novels.

Food as Family, Comfort, and Joy “Food is life. Food is family. Food brings us together,” Tari says. “For me, cooking is therapy and a huge source of joy. I love the excitement of trying a new meal or the

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satisfaction you get after a good meal. Food is comfort. Food is our relationship with the earth and the earth to us.”

A Beloved Nigerian Snack The dish Tari shares is Nigerian Fish Roll, a savory pastry that comes in both fried and baked versions. For this recipe, Tari chose the baked variety. Fish roll is the kind of snack that fits almost any moment — it can be enjoyed anytime, though it’s especially known as a street snack and a favorite at parties and fast food eateries.

For Tari, the dish also carries a sweet childhood memory. She remembers looking forward to Fridays in elementary school because fish roll was served for lunch. That simple tradition made the dish feel special and memorable, and it remains a comforting taste from her past.

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Baked Nigerian Fish Roll TIME: 1HR 30 MINS

|

DIFFICULTY: MODERATE

Ingredients For the dough -4 cups flour -2 sticks butter -1 egg -1/4 cup water -Salt, optional if using salted butter

For the filling -1 small onion -2 tomatoes -Multicolored bell peppers -Garlic -1 filleted mackerel fish -1 Knorr seasoning cube -Olive oil -Pepper, optional

Directions

Serve

Make the filling fore the main meal Wash the fish, then fillet and debone it.

Season it with your preferred spices — Tari likes paprika, salt, and onion powder. Chop the onions, tomatoes, and garlic.

Bake the fish with the tomatoes, onions, and chopped garlic at 400°F until fully cooked.

Once baked, sauté the onions and bell peppers in a pan. Add the baked fish and tomatoes, then stir in seasoning, spices, and pepper to taste.

Make the dough In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, butter, egg, and water. Mix until the ingredients come together to form a dough.

If you have time, chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Resting the dough makes it easier to roll out.

Assemble the rolls On a flat surface, roll out the dough and fill it with the fish mixture. Roll it over, seal it, and cut into your desired size.

Place the rolls on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.

Nigerian fish roll is typically eaten as a snack or appetizer before the main meal. It is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with tea, juice, or a cold drink.

For a Texas-style twist, Tari suggests serving it with iced tea, lemonade, or even a simple side salad.

Insider Tips Tari says the ingredients can be found at any grocery store in Texas, making this dish easy to recreate at home. If you can’t find one ingredient exactly as written, a few substitutions can work depending on what’s available.

One step not to skip: letting the dough rest. It makes rolling and shaping much easier and helps create a better texture.

Paw-sonality

Ruby 1.5 years old Our family yearned for a four-legged member to join in our fun and add that extra special spark that only a pet can give, but wanted to wait until it felt just right, despite our kids asking daily. Only a few short months ago I was scrolling online and came across Ruby’s picture posted in need of a new home, and my heart skipped a beat.

We just knew that she was the one! We were happy to be able to adopt her from another local family and assured them that she would be well loved, as she certainly is!

Haley Borne

Clingy adventurous loving

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SS: What would be your ideal job?

Ruby: I would be the top neighborhood security guard in defense against all flying and crawling creatures. Not a single insect or lizard makes in past my swift skills!

SS: What is your favorite thing to do?

Ruby: I fancy chasing ice cubes that fall from the freezer and meowing until my humans put my leash on and let me sit outside in the backyard in the sun, keeping close eye out for sneaky bugs of course.

SS: Your biggest oops moment.

Ruby: My humans seem to not like when I knock over the potted plant next to one of the windows and dirt goes everywhere. But clearly it’s one of my backyard viewing hideouts (remember, enemy critters) so they really should find a new spot for the dumb plant.

SS: Do you have a favorite snack?

Ruby: I’m quite particular, but I will lick a Delectables Squeeze Up the second it is opened for me.”

SS: What does your ideal day look like?

Ruby: I like to start my day off by running full speed into my big humans’ bedroom and jumping on top of the dresser to loudly meow about how my food bowl urgently needs to be refilled. Once that is done, I spend my time following my humans all around the house and watching their every move. I sit at windows to patrol the outside and am always waiting for doors to open so I too can enter every new space. I need my daily outside yard time. I love playing with my 3-year-old human’s toys; they’re quite fun to hit and watch skitter loudly across the floor and underneath the couches. Of course, I’ll take the occasional nap on the dining room chairs, but not for too long. My environment really needs to be under my control. Once evening comes, I just want to cuddle my humans, and I watch over them when they sleep. They seem to like to do that when it gets dark. Strange.

SS: What do your humans have to say about you?

Ruby: Cute but mischievous; obviously one of the best things that’s ever happened to them.

SS: Is there something they do not know about you?

Ruby: Despite my sweet looks and admitted lack of experience, I know I have what it takes to be a true street cat, a legend, a leader of the block. But alas they underestimate me and do their best to keep me securely leashed or indoors. It’s a shame, I could make a real reputation for myself. Put some respect on my name!”

SS: If you had a catchphrase it would be?

Ruby: Pet me and tell me I’m pretty.

May

EVENT CALENDAR 1-3 2 9 16

Little Shop of Horrors https://www.inspirationstage.com/

experience the hilarious and acclaimed cult classic (musical) at Inspiration Stage (tickets on sale)

Grand Opening - Sticky Fingers Cooking of Houston West Register here

kids explore international food stations, create their own smoothies, enjoy fun games, crafts & giveaways (free event, must register)

Mother’s Day Market https://www.sugarlandtownsquare.com/

Sugar Land Town Square (* must RSVP)

Howey’s Water Safety Festival https://www.sugarlandtownsquare.com/

an interactive, family-friendly experience all centered around water safety and drowning prevention. (open to public)

Editor’s Note: Are you organizing or do you know of an event in New Territory happening in June?

Let us know!

Email sugarsidemagazine@gmail.com