April 2021
HOPE Stories of
Stories of Hope Patients share their experiences of healing, recovery and support, thanks to the experienced team at Houston Methodist Neuroscience & Spine Center at Sugar Land.
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Dan Kershner, PT
Robert Sparacino
njury, overuse and chronic medical conditions can cause pain and suffering of the spine, neck and nervous system. If you’re hurting, turn to the experts at the Houston Methodist Neuroscience & Spine Center at Sugar Land. For more than a decade, our multidisciplinary team has helped residents of Fort Bend and surrounding areas lead the healthiest, most active lives possible. Our staff includes: • Neurologists • Neuroradiologists • Neurosurgeons • Nurse practitioners • Orthopedic spine surgeons • Pain management specialists • Primary care sports medicine specialists • Physical, occupational and speech therapists The Neuroscience & Spine Center offers expedited, timely appointments; access to world-class specialists and sub-specialists; customized, coordinated care from a dedicated team that works together on your behalf; and comfortable, accurate diagnostic testing with state-of-the-art technology.
Toby Yaltho, MD Neurologist
Robert Sparacino: From Skeptic to Believer In March 2020, long-time cyclist Robert Sparacino of Sugar Land received the diagnosis that explained why he’d been struggling on the bike in recent months. He was in the early stages of Parkinson’s disease. Houston Methodist Neuroscience & Spine Center physician Toby Yaltho, M.D., a board-certified neurologist who specializes in movement disorders, told Sparacino the news following a series of diagnostic procedures, including a nuclear brain scan. Yaltho started Sparacino on medication and also prescribed another specialized treatment. “Dr. Yaltho suggested I participate in a type of physical therapy called Big ® and Loud ® , which is specifically designed for patients with Parkinson’s,” said Sparacino. “At that point, I was still coming to grips with my diagnosis, and I really wasn’t sure it would be helpful.”
Learn how the integrated care teams at Houston Methodist Neuroscience & Spine Center helped three local patients overcome their challenges.
Over time, h o w e v e r, Sparacino recognized that he would eventually need assist ance with balance and st ability, and he began Big and Loud Therapy in February 2021. But his first
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Mfon Isong, PT, DPT, MPH few sessions weren’t convincing. “When I started, I thought it was silly,” he said. “I didn’t understand how the exercises we were doing could help. But one day I was walking back to my car after a session, and I noticed that my right arm was swinging normally, which was one of the movements I had lost. Right then, I could see real progress. And since then, I’ve had a number of significant improvements in my mobility.” Sparacino credits physical therapists Dan Kershner and Mfon Isong with his development. “They are both very compassionate and understanding but they aren’t afraid to challenge you,” he said. “I’m finding muscles I didn’t know I had! I also like the way they talk to and work with me. They’ve gotten to know me as a person, and they treat me as an individual, not just another patient.” Now, Sparacino is an outspoken advocate for Big and Loud Therapy and his care team at the Neuroscience & Spine Center. “I was skeptical, but I get it now,” he said. “I recommend Dr. Yaltho and Big and Loud Therapy to anyone who is dealing with Parkinson’s.”
Cheryl Kloefkorn: Pain-Free Without Surgery
with the Houston Methodist Neuroscience & Spine Center at Sugar Land.
Music teacher Cheryl Kloefkorn was no stranger to back pain, having undergone surgery years ago for degenerative disc disease. So when the Missouri City resident slipped in a parking lot in December 2018 and injured her back, she knew what was coming.
“Dr. Shah believed that my symptoms would improve with physical therapy,” said Kloefkorn. “I did eight weeks of therapy, working with Monique Dillard and Michelle Heebner and they were fantastic. When my therapy was completed, I was so much stronger, and my pain had disappeared.”
“I had parked my car and was walking to the trunk when I lost my balance,” she explained. “I caught myself from falling, but I knew I had hurt myself. I rested over the weekend but by Monday, I could barely move.”
The therapists taught Kloefkorn how to manage day-to-day tasks – such as vacuuming and unloading her instrument case from her trunk – without putting pressure on her back and causing pain.
A month later, she was still in pain and went to see Jinal Shah, MD, board-certified neurologist
Because of Kloefkorn’s positive experience, both of her parents underwent physical therapy
Michelle Heebner, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT
Cheryl Kloefkorn
at the Neuroscience & Spine Center when they experienced sciatic pain. “My dad was 90 when he went, and he was so grateful for the care and attention he received from the therapists,” she said. “They helped him so much. He is absolutely a fan of Houston Methodist Sugar Land.” In September of last year, Kloefkorn slipped again, and once again, she received physical therapy at the Neuroscience & Spine Center to recover; this time, working with therapists Dan Kershner and Mfon Isong. “When your physical therapists are really good, it makes a big difference,” said Kloefkorn. “And the group at the Neuroscience & Spine Center is top notch. They are really your best bet if you want to live without pain and without an invasive procedure.”
Jinal Shah, MD Neurologist
Monique Dillard, PT, CLT
To Make an Appointment
with a Neuroscience & Spine Center physician, call 281.205.4662 or go to houstonmethodist.org/neuro-sl and click on “Appointment Request Form.” UPCLOSE ~ April 2021 ~ 3
Janice Nkrumah, PT, DPT
Jeffrey Wood, MD Spine Surgeon
Patrick Layhee: Surgery, Therapy Restore Mobility Patrick Layhee never had pain in his neck or back before. But the Sugar Land resident realized there was something wrong when he began having balance, walking and coordination issues. The one-time avid runner – who had successfully completed two half-marathons – slowly shifted his activities in response to his worsening condition. He gave up running, and eventually found even walking from room to room was a problem. “I was constantly looking for something to hold on to so that I wouldn’t fall,” he said. “For example, when I would leave a restaurant, I would plan my route so that I could reach out and hold on to counters or the backs of chairs to brace myself.” Layhee’s primary care physician recommended that he see Houston Methodist Neuroscience & Spine Center at Sugar Land physician Toby Yaltho, M.D., board-certified neurologist who specializes in movement disorders. After a series of tests, Yaltho diagnosed Layhee with cervical
Patrick Layhee
Toby Yaltho, MD Neurologist
stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal canal, between the vertebrae in his neck. That narrowing was compressing Layhee’s spinal cord, creating a condition called ataxia – a lack of muscle control or coordination of voluntary movements, such as walking. Yaltho referred Layhee to Jeffrey Wood, M.D., board-certified orthopedic surgeon at the Neuroscience & Spine Center. “Dr. Wood said my cervical stenosis was serious and could lead to even more significant issues if left untreated,” said Layhee. In November 2020, Wood performed a procedure known as anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) on Layhee. ACDF surgery involves making an incision in the front of the throat to reach the spinal column to remove bone spurs or spinal discs that may be pressing on the spinal cord. After a short recovery, Layhee began physical therapy to regain his balance and improve his mobility. “From the very first day, the physical therapy at the Neuroscience & Spine Center was on target,”
Dan Kershner, PT
said Layhee. “The two therapists I worked with — Dan Kershner and Janice Nkrumah – made a great team. Dan challenged me physically, and Janice worked with me on balance and mobility. Together, they absolutely made a difference.” In total, Layhee had 16 physical therapy sessions, but he supplemented that work by going to a local gym regularly and walking on the treadmill – at first, holding on to the handrails, and later, without any need for assistance. “I was feeling confident so one day I just decided to try and jog,” he said. “So I went into the racquetball court and – hallelujah! – I could run again. Not fast, but I was running!” Layhee credits the multi-disciplinary team at the Neuroscience & Spine Center with his amazing progress. “I have total faith in Dr. Yaltho and Dr. Wood because they really took the time to explain things to me and answer my questions,” said Layhee. “And my therapy team dramatically improved my balance and mobility. Everyone I worked with at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital was caring and compassionate.”
Houston Methodist Neuroscience & Spine Center at Sugar Land 16605 Southwest Frwy., Medical Office Building 3 Suite 115 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.205.4662 houstonmethodist.org/neuro-sl
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To advertise, 281-235-0600
Dr. Baltazar Really
Loves His Job! by Amy Sharp
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orma Gonzales owns local Continental Cleaners 195 with her husband. She’s on her feet a lot, and was experiencing some problems with her legs. Norma says, “I had ugly veins that looked like big bruises on my right leg. I had read about Dr. Ulises Baltazar in UpClose magazine a while back, and I decided to give him a call. I figured he would just give me an injection or something.” A highly regarded vein specialist, Dr. Baltazar is a leader in his field. He has extensive experience working with conditions resulting from vein or lymphatic system issues. Dr. Baltazar is board certified by the American Board of Surgery in Vascular Surgery and General Surgery. He’s a Fellow of the American College of Phlebology and a member of Houston Methodist Cardiovascular Surgery Associates’ Sugar Land Vein Clinic—a practice dedicated exclusively to the treatment of venous insufficiency. “After Dr. Baltazar did his evaluation and looked at my legs under ultrasound,” says Norma, “he told me he sees things like this all the time. My veins had widened through the years. Dr. Baltazar said he could laser the bad veins off so they were not used for blood flow...forcing the blood up the main artery. Dr. Baltazar explained everything to me; he talks passionately about what he does. He assured me this was no problem, and he would take care of me. Dr. Baltazar’s staff is also wonderful. Amanda at the front desk is so sweet, and his nurse Sonia made me feel very comfortable...like a family member. They had to turn off the lights during the laser treatment, and I felt secure and confident. After the procedure, Dr.
Baltazar determined that the laser didn’t quite get rid of everything, and he did sclerotherapy on the remaining veins to reroute the blood and minimize their appearance.” “I’m very happy,” continues Norma. “Today my legs look much better, and I feel great. This was a great experience, and Dr. Baltazar is a very nice guy. He’s so sweet. You can tell he really loves his job. And I love that he is close, right here in Sugar Land. I didn’t have to drive to the Medical Center for treatment. In fact, when Dr. Baltazar heard I owned a local dry cleaning company, he brought his boots in for repair. He’s awesome...I love him!”
Ulises Baltazar MD, FACS, RVT DeBakey Heart and Vascular Center, Vein Clinic 281-240-8400 16605 Southwest Freeway Ste 505 (in the Methodist Professional Building 3)
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Watch our Facebook page for dates and times of when vaccines are available. Then text the word “vaccine” to 888-506-3502.
Continuing the Fight Against COVID-19 by Amy Sharp
F
or more than a year now, local St. Michael’s Elite Hospital has stayed one step ahead of the COVID-19 pandemic. They’ve assisted in setting up COVID19 protocols, and have worked with manufacturers to get help out to our community. As a licensed hospital, St. Michael’s has offered COVID-19 diagnostic testing, treatment, inpatient hospitalization, and emergency care with short wait times. And in the battle to the end the pandemic, St. Michael’s is administering COVID-19 vaccines. St. Michael’s Elite Hospital CEO/CNO Jessica Rivas says, “To date, we’ve administered
more than 700 vaccines to the community. We make the process as seamless and efficient as possible. When a lady came in and explained that her 93-year-old mother may not be able to come in to get her vaccine, I went out to the car and gave her the vaccine there. After Texas opened up vaccines to school teachers and others that work with children, we traveled to Fort Bend Christian Academy and administered 55 vaccines on-site to teachers and other staff at the school. Getting this community vaccinated is a priority here at St. Michael’s Elite Hospital.” So can anyone get a COVD-19 vaccine
Request a rapid result COVID-19 test at 24hrer.com/covid-pre-screen
at St. Michael’s? Jessica says, “We are following the eligibility roll out implemented by the State of Texas. If you are eligible, you can get a vaccine here at St. Michael’s. Watch our Facebook page for dates and times of when vaccines are available. Then text the word ‘vaccine’ to 888-506-3502. You will be asked to select a time slot and answer eligibility questions. If the time slots are gone, please continue to watch Facebook. We plan to order 100 or more vaccines a week, based on response.” For those that think they have COVID-19 or have been exposed to the virus, St. Michael’s continues to provide guidance and testing. Founder, Dr. Shannon Orsak, says, “There is a light at the end of this tunnel. We will support this community in the fight against COVID-19 for as long as we need to. Stay healthy!”
St. Michael’s
bills all insurances. Your insurance MUST pay in-network benefits at the ER of YOUR CHOICE whether the emergency room you choose is “in-network” or “out-of-network.”
St. Michael’s Elite Hospital 16000 SW Freeway (at Hwy 6), Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-980-HELP (4357)
www.24hrer.com
A KW Southwest Experience
The Memon Family’s Story
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by Amy Sharp
ighteen months ago, the Memon family was in the market for a already committed to the lot, so we were second in line. When their deal luxury home. Mrs. Memon says, “We were actually working with fell through, Imran acted quickly and secured the lot for us. He also another agent, when I met Keller Williams Southwest (KWSW) discovered builder incentives we wouldn’t have known about, and agent Imran Bhadaini. I switched agents after meeting Imran. I found helped us with financing. Imran closed a very good deal for us.” him to be very knowledgeable, quick to respond, and gracious in sharing The deal was also contingent on the selling of the Memons’ facts with us.” existing home. Through Imran’s marketing and strong negotiations, “From the very beginning, Imran was instrumental in that home was sold for the highest price in the neighborhood. finding the home we wanted,” continues Mrs. Memon. “He “Both transactions were quick and seamless,” says Mrs. understood what we were looking for, and he convinced us Memon. “And Imran was always flexible, and he was we couldn’t go wrong with a semi-custom home from a mindful in guiding us the right way. After our experience, particular builder. It was actually a builder we had used many of our extended family and friends have reached before, and we were hesitant about closing the deal out to Imran and utilized him. My late husband was also without guidance. It would be a new build, and we had impressed. He was a public figure and pretty popular in some elevation and construction changes we wanted the community. When he posted on social media how to make. Imran seamlessly handled that process. I was impressed we were with Imran, I know lots of others closed also very particular about selecting the land. I liked with Imran after reading it. I’m very satisfied with what we the first lot we saw, and I would not budge. For me, purchased. I absolutely recommend Imran. He will guide KW Agent it was no deal without that lot. Another buyer had you in the right direction.” Imran Bhadaini
281-265-0000 • 1650 Highway 6, Ste 350 • Sugar Land, TX 77478 Your local destination for your real estate needs. KWSW.com provides comprehensive school, master planned communities, and neighborhood information on homes for sale in our hometown.
To advertise, 281-235-0600
UPCLOSE ~ April 2021 ~ 7
Winner Winner We’re here and ready to help.
Spaghetti Dinner! T By Marie Page
by Amy Sharp
he Exchange Club of Sugar Land is very excited to announce their annual Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser benefiting many Fort Bend nonprofits. This fundraiser marks 34 years of service by our local Exchange Club. Spaghetti Chairperson Rick Bell says, “The Spaghetti Dinner is almost older than the club. It’s the event that started our club! This year, we will once again host our Spaghetti fundraiser virtually. On April 17th, we will be broadcasting the fundraiser ‘Live’ at 6pm from the Corvette building at Classic Chevy Sugar Land. It will be a fun evening featuring guest speakers, frequent updates on our
silent auctions, and a local chef cooking spaghetti. I’m also super excited to announce a spaghetti-eating contest featuring local celebrities. This is a can’t miss!” This year’s Exchange Club of Sugar Land top raffle prize is Dinner for a Year. Club President Paul Barnett says, “The winner receives a $50 gift card for every week of the year to a local restaurant. Second prize is Gas for Year: a $10 gas card for every week of the year. Prizes 3 through 10 are various gift cards. As always, the proceeds of the raffle tickets go toward supporting local charities and Exchange Club programs.”
Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land 13115 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-491-9000 www.classicchevysugarland.com
SUGAR LAND
Local nonprofits supported by The Exchange Club of Sugar Land include Child Advocates of Fort Bend, Fort Bend County Women’s Center, Texana, Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels, Fort Bend Council on Substance Abuse, Crimestoppers, YMCA, Literacy Council of Fort Bend, and many others. The club also supports Exchange Cooperative Community Service Projects like Santa’s Exchange which provides thousands of gifts for underprivileged children in association with other Exchange Clubs, Rotary, and Toys for Tots. It’s been a busy year for the Exchange Club of Sugar Land. With still four months to go in their
Classic Chevrolet HWY 6 8100 HWY 6 South, Houston, TX 77083 281-201-1040 www.classicchevyhwy6.com
HWY 6
fiscal year, the club has already exceeded its programs of service over the previous year. Just as they have for more than 25 years, Classic Chevrolet—both the Sugar Land and Hwy 6 locations—is once again the presenting sponsor for this year’s Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser. Owners Tiffany and Jeff Sebastian say, “This is a wonderful opportunity to support the many fantastic nonprofits we have here in our community. We’re happy to be a part of this great event.” Join us for the fun on April 17th, and remember...IT’S ALL FOR THE KIDS!
34th Annual
Exchange Club of Sugar Land
Spaghetti Dinner Saturday, April 17, 2021, 6pm
“Live” from the Corvette building at Classic Chevy Sugar Land View on Exchange Club of Sugar Land Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/exchangeclubofsugarland Silent auction updates, guest speakers, a local celebrity spaghetti-eating contest. Raffle winners will be announced...plus a few other surprises! Raffle tickets cost $100 each and can be purchased from any Exchange Club member, at www.ecsl.org, or at Classic Chevy Sugar Land and HWY 6.
NEW THIS YEAR TUNE IN TO WATCH our local celebrity spaghetti-eating contest.
PRESENTING SPONSOR
Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land GOODBYE DUST BUNNIES...
Trusted homeowners
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everywhere!
HELLO EASTER BUNNY!
Call for your Termite Inspection Today!
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BUGCO Pest Control 281-240-2157 www.bugco.org 9720 Harlem Road #B3 Richmond, TX 77407
Mahoney’s
House Cleaning Services 281-777-1526 www.mahoneyshousecleaningservices.com
A portion of the editorial content contained in this publication is controlled and contracted by the advertisers contained herein and is part of their advertisement. UpClose Magazine is not responsible for content of these editorials or advertisements. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.
F CUS
Customized Medications for Thyroid and Diabetic Patients
E
by Amy Sharp
ndocrinologist Dr. Shreya Parikh founded Sugar Land Endocrine and Thyroid on a philosophy of patient empowerment. Dr. Parikh says, “We treat all endocrinologic disorders. When you are a patient here, we don’t want you to feel helpless, as if the disease controls you. We want you to feel empowered and in control of your own health.” One of Dr. Parikh’s partners in this mission is locally owned Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy. At Campbell’s, pharmacists mix (compound) medications using individual ingredients prescribed by the practitioner and required by the patient. “I’ve been sending patients to Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy for more than 10 years,” says Dr. Parikh. “Sometimes, my thyroid patients struggle with hormone replacement...it’s hard to get the right strength and dosage. At Campbell’s, I can work together with the pharmacist to get the proper dosage for the patient.” “For my diabetic patients,” continues Dr. Parikh, “I often have Campbell’s compound topical creams for neuropathy. The staff at Campbell’s
makes everything so easy. They communicate with me, and they communicate with the patient regarding cost, medication counseling...whatever is needed. I can easily call in refills, and Campbell’s will even mail medications to patients for free. They’re really good!” In addition to customized, compounded medications, Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy also carries all commercially available medications. They accept and bill insurance, and can even compound medicines in flavors and forms that kids love. Founder, Dr. Lance Campbell, Pharm.D., R.Ph, says, “When you walk through our doors, this isn’t a take-a-number then a waitin-line kind of place. We want to get to know you and your doctor. Medication should never be one size fits all!” At Sugar Land Endocrine and Thyroid, Dr. Parikh and her team of experts tailor patient care through a combination of education, medication, diet, cutting-edge therapy, and a state-of-the-art medical record system. Dr. Parikh says, “This profession is a highly personal one. I like to be available to my patients for all of their medical
concerns. I have a registered dietician and certified diabetes educator on staff to ensure each patient is getting the care they need...and I also enjoy really getting to know each of my patients as people!” To learn more about Sugar Land Endocrine and Thyroid, visit www.sugarlandendocrine.com.
Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy “If our staff can’t make it… then you probably don’t need it!” Sugar Land • 281-980-2555 4760 Sweetwater Blvd. Suite 103 Houston • 713-668-4833 6603 Kirby Dr., Houston, TX 77005 www.campbellscompounding.com
Such a Great Experience...Let’s Do More!
A
by Amy Sharp
fter Mona Miles purchased her home, she wanted to rip out the upstairs carpet and put in hardwood floors. Mona says, “I talked to four or five different places. When I went into the Lone Star Floors showroom, I did not feel pressured in any way to buy something crazy expensive. I’m a people person; I feel relationships are really important. I had a really good feeling about Lone Star Floors. They were so helpful in educating me about the different types of floors. Then, when they came out to measure, I really connected with the Lone Star Floors guys.”” “I was so impressed by their work and level of professionalism,” continues Mona. “And everyone was so kind and respectful. The upstairs flooring was such a great experience...I said, ‘Let’s do more.’ In the end, Lone Star Floors fully remodeled my bathrooms, including countertops, cabinets, floors, and glass shower doors. They put in travertine throughout the first floor, redid my bar, and painted my kitchen and dining room. They hung ceiling fans and light fixtures. Whatever I asked for, they took care of. I wanted a certain travertine color in a certain size, and I wanted it to be polished. They tried more than 50 places looking for what I wanted, and when they couldn’t find it, they found the right color and size, and polished it for me. My stairs, they rebuilt every step with hardwood. I didn’t have to compromise on anything, and everything looks amazing...like a brand new house inside. I love it! I highly recommend Lone Star Floors. They really know their stuff, and they make everything
so easy.” Lone Star Floors was opened more than 25 years ago by cousins Mohamed Naser, Ziad Mukhaimer and Imad Mansour. As Mona learned, in addition to flooring, they do full kitchen, bathroom, and home remodeling—including plumbing, shower glass, painting and granite. Visit one of the three Lone Star Floors showrooms today to learn more.
Lone Star Floors • 3 Locations • www.lonestarfloors.com Sugar Land: 281-564-1345 10009 Highway 6 South Sugar Land, TX
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Katy: 281-398-2319 873 South Mason Rd. #300 Katy, TX
To advertise, 281-235-0600
Woodlands: 832-813-0813 24627 I-45 North Suite # A The Woodlands/Spring, Texas
G E T
M O R E
F R O M
LONE STAR
FLOORS
Are Your A/C Condensation Lines
Ready For Summer? T
he water condensation from your air conditioner is acidic. It causes slime and algae buildup in your A/C condensation lines. But do you know the signs of an A/C condensation line clog? Signs of a clog in your A/C condensation line: • A lavatory sink is slow to drain. It may not be your daughter’s hair causing the problem. • A lavatory sink starts filling on its own with sandy water. • You see water dripping outside from the eaves. • The pan under your A/C unit contains water. Luke Burkhalter, Master Plumber at local Alan’s Plumbing, says, “Far too often, we hear how people call their A/C guy for an A/C condensation line clog. The truth is...once A/C condensation leaves your A/C unit, it’s a plumbing issue. The drain for your A/C condensation is tied to your lavatory sink drains. A slow-to-drain or filling lavatory sink is a sign that the clog is below the sink. Water dripping from your eaves is a clog above the sink. When
the pan under your A/C unit starts filling with water, it’s a clog in the primary A/C drain line. All of these clogs should be fixed by a licensed plumber. We can run chemicals and/or cables into the lines to clear them, and we are excited to announce that here at Alan’s Plumbing we now have a jetter. The jetter is the most effective at flushing the line. It leaves the pipes squeaky clean, like a power washer for your drains.” “But you don’t want to wait for A/C condensation lines to clog to do anything!” warns Luke. “These clogs can cause real damage. This is why we do preventive maintenance cleaning service calls for these lines...we service your A/C primary lines BEFORE they clog. If you’ve experienced multiple problems in the past, it might be time to bring the jetter out for a thorough cleaning. The jetter is also an effective solution for flushing kitchen pipes that experience frequent stoppages.” For 25 years and counting, Alan’s Plumbing has been the go-to, honest plumbing company here in Fort Bend. The company was founded by Luke’s father, Master Plumber
by Amy Sharp
Alan Burkhalter. Luke’s uncle, Chris Burkhalter, is also a Master Plumber with Alan’s Plumbing. Luke’s brother Beau is journeyman-licensed and studying for his master plumber license. His brother Jake is an apprentice close to his journeyman license. The boys’ mom Jennifer, Luke’s wife Chelsea, and Katie Johnson answer the phones. The addition of journeyman-licensed plumbers Jeff Johnson and Jaime and tradesmanlicensed Trevor make this the best and most trusted licensed plumbing company in town. To schedule an A/C condensation line preventive maintenance service (or any plumbing service!) call 281261-1064 today.
Alan’s Plumbing
281-261-1064 License M-18995
WWW.ALANS.PLUMBING
UPCLOSE ~ April 2021 ~ 11
by Amy Sharp
A Game Plan for Saving Energy
O
n February 15th, in the middle of one of the worst arctic events ever to hit the state of Texas, ERCOT (Electric Reliability Council of Texas) declared a state of emergency: The state was experiencing a critical lack of power. Of course, most of you know this... if you didn’t live through an extended power outage yourself, you almost certainly know someone who did.
It’s a complex cascade of events that led up to the problem, but most experts agree on one thing: We will likely see an increase in the price of power, especially as we enter the summer months. With that knowledge, it’s time to make a game plan for saving energy this summer. 1. Fan yourself. Using fans to help cool your home means you can raise your thermostat setting by four degrees without reducing your comfort level. Don’t forget to turn off the fans when you leave the room...they aren’t cooling the space, just the people in the space by providing a wind chill effect. 2. Optimize your thermostat. For every degree you raise your thermostat above 72 degrees,
you save up to 3% of your cooling expenses. Setting your thermostat at 78 degrees in the summer can save you up to 10% in energy costs each year. 3. Relax and unplug. Unplug chargers, TVs, computers, and other small electronics when you’re not using them. According to the Department of Energy, it’s an easy way to save up to $100 a year. 3. Upgrade your air conditioner. An air conditioning system upgrade can take summer energy savings to the next level. Look for Energy Star certified systems that have high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings. Brian Jackson, owner of local Jackson Air and Heat, says, “Your A/C system is one of the biggest energy hogs in your home, especially during our hot Texas summers. Upgrading to a new energy efficient system may be just the ticket to saving you money. Here at Jackson Air and Heat, we’re a Trane Comfort Specialist. These systems are made here in Tyler, TX. One of the best performing systems on the market is Trane’s XV20i variable speed air conditioner. This Trane has a 22-SEER
rating, making it one of the industry’s most efficient systems. What that means for you is reduced energy costs and usage. And with 0% financing or instant rebates, plus the Centerpoint rebates currently available, you really can’t go wrong by upgrading to a Trane XV20i. It’s a great way to go green!” In business since 1982, Jackson Air and Heat is the oldest independent Trane dealer in Sugar Land. The company enjoys an unparalleled reputation for honesty and integrity. Give them a call anytime. Brian and his team are ready to help you create an effective, energy-saving game plan before summer arrives! Jackson Air and Heat, Inc. Sugar Land’s Oldest Independent Trane Dealer License #TACLB29585 281-240-1037
www.LicenseToChill.us
A“New”Hall Bath
in ThreeWeeks
“M
by Amy Sharp
y son is a big guy at 6 foot She was very involved and 4,” says Mike. “So we wanted made sure things were to take the tub out of the moving along. I found her hall bathroom next to his foreman Tony to be very Your room, put in a shower for him, and connect knowledgeable, and he’s the bathroom to his room with a pocket a great problem solver. door. When the bathroom door was open Tony was in charge of Specialist to the hallway, it was a straight shot back to the workers, and they see the toilet when you walked into our living know what they’re doing. room. I had read that moving a toilet wasn’t too They get the job done expensive, so I wanted the toilet moved to the side quickly. The crew worked as part of this project.” diligently each day from about “I was looking on NextDoor, and found where another guy 8:30am till 5pm, and cleaned up where was asking about remodeling contractors. I sent him an email they could before leaving. Construction asking who he used and why. He responded to just give him is really messy, and I have a daughter a call. I learned that his project was completed about three with allergies. Teri’s crew did a great job months before, and he worked with and recommended Teri sealing off the rest of the house from the Gilberg (better known as the Re-Modelista). I did get a second dust with plastic.” bid, but I chose Teri based on the recommendation, as well as “Our ‘new’ hall bathroom is the nicest her bid came in at a lower cost.” room in the house!” says Mike. “Now I’m Teri estimated Mike’s hall bathroom remodel—which looking at other things I can upgrade. included repiping the plumbing to move the toilet, removing We do recommend Teri. She is great!” the soaker tub and adding a shower, new flooring, and adding the pocket door to the adjoining bedroom—would take three Re-Modelista: weeks. “Her estimate was right on,” says Mike. “My wife did all Your Home Renovation Specialist the design work for the new bathroom. She has that gift, and Specializes in Kitchen and Bath Remodels Teri helped her pull the materials together. During construction, “She Gets the Job Done!” 832-535-2501 • cell: 832-731-3191 Teri came to the job site every day to check in on things. www.theremodelista.com
&
Kitchen Bath
To advertise, 281-235-0600
UPCLOSE ~ April 2021 ~ 13
Your Teeth Are Not the Worst He’s Ever Seen! by Amy Sharp
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Avoiding THE DENTIST?
ocal dentist, Dr. Thomas Lomonte, D.D.S., says, “So often, people are afraid to come in. Maybe they’ve not been to the dentist in a few years, and they think their teeth will be the worst I’ve ever seen. In nearly all instances, that is just not the case. With a little maintenance and repair, most people’s teeth are actually just fine!” If you’ve been told, or you believe, that all of your teeth need to be replaced, Dr. Lomonte encourages you to come in and see what options you have. “You might just need a few crowns and fillings, and maybe an implant or two,” says Dr. Lomonte. “And don’t let the prospect of an implant scare you. Today’s implants are relatively simple and inexpensive. The technique and materials are so much better than they were even just a few years ago. Modern implants enjoy a success rate of over 95%, and having them done is not terribly uncomfortable. I recently did two implants on a local mechanic. He couldn’t believe how easy it was...and he was fine with taking one Advil.” In practice in his same location on Murphy Road since Come in 1982, Dr. Lomonte is big on smiles. “I know everyone out there wants their dentist to be both quick and painas a patient less. To this end, I stay up to date on the latest in technology and leave and procedures in this constantly evolving field of dentistry. My as a friend! mission is to offer pain free dental solutions whenever possible for
your situation. I want everyone to walk out of my office smiling, each and every time. I promise, your teeth are not the worst I’ve ever seen. And remember...it doesn’t cost you anything at all to see what your options are!”
Thomas M. Lomonte, D.D.S.
“Come in as a patient, leave as a friend.” 12122 Murphy Rd., Stafford, TX 77477 281-530-1440 www.drthomaslomonte.com
Medicare is Tricky, It Requires Personalized Care
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alguni “Fal” Gandhi manages local Medinet Family Care Clinic. Fal is a certified physician in India. Her husband, Bharat Gandhi, MD, and daughter, Priya Gandhi, MD, MPH, are both board certified in internal medicine. Fal says, “We are a family practice. We’ve owned our clinic for more than 25 years. Our youngest daughter is in her third year of residency, and will be joining the practice soon.” “Medicare is hard,” continues Fal. “We don’t have the resources that big hospitals have, and it’s tricky! Many insurance people drop by our office and leave cards. Three or four years ago, I noticed Kaushi Shah from Clutch City Insurance. Kaushi had so much energy, and she always followed up; Kaushi was providing actual personalized care. I consulted with her to better understand Medicare Advantage plans. Ever since, Kaushi has been an asset to our office. When we don’t understand something, she
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sits down with us and helps. We refer patients to Kaushi, and they’re always so happy. Kaushi has so much good information. When a patient is struggling with getting medications covered or home health—or anything— Kaushi comes through. She makes sure a patient’s Medicare policy covers what is needed.” As Past President of the Indian Culture Center, Fal has accompanied Kaushi to speak to senior citizens at the India Association of Senior Citizens. Fal says, “We speak their language. Together, we educate these individuals on health care.” Kaushi speaks both Hindi and Gujarati. At Medinet Family Care Clinic, the staff speaks Hindi, Urdu, and Punjabi. Medicare consultations with Clutch City Insurance are always free of charge. If you or someone
To advertise, 281-235-0600
by Amy Sharp
you know is approaching their 65th birthday, schedule a consultation today. Clutch City Insurance can also help if you’re already enrolled in Medicare and not happy with your plan. It’s very important that YOUR plan meets YOUR needs. One of Kaushi’s more recent clients is Fal’s husband, Dr. Gandhi. Fal says “Bharat turned 65 last year, and Kaushi helped him select primary and secondary Medicare insurance. She reviewed deductibles, copays, coinsurance...everything, and then she helped him apply. Kaushi provided great guidance.” For more information on Medinet Family Care Clinic’s two locations, visit www.medinetcareclinic. com.
Clutch City Insurance Kaushi Shah 832-282-3515 kaushi97@gmail.com
HEALTH MATTERS WITH DRS. STEVE HARRIS AND ZACK BRAZZELL, DOCTORS OF CHIROPRACTIC WHERE PAIN RELIEF COMES NATURALLY
RELIEF WITHOUT SURGERY
Dr.
by Amy Sharp
Vlada Matytsin has been practicing dentistry for more than 30 years. For 25 of those 30 years, she’s experienced back problems. Dr. Matytsin says, “I’m not sure if being a dentist caused my back problems, but it sure does not help. I’ve also been in car accidents, and I used to ski in the mountains in Russia. My seventh neck disc (C7) was herniated and degenerated. Whenever I rotated my neck, I would hear a really creepy noise...it sounded really bad!” Dr. Matytsin practices general dentistry at Sweetwater Dental Studio. As a member of the Sugar Land Rotary Club, Dr. Matytsin For more information, visit www.sweetwaterdentalstudio.com. was acquainted with Dr. Steve Harris, a local chiropractor. “I see Dr. Harris every Wednesday at our Rotary meetings,” says Dr. Matytsin. “And I knew he treated people with chronic back problems. I decided to give and I have zero pain! I now go back to Sugar Dr. Harris a try.” Land Health Center once a month for mainDr. Harris opened Sugar Land Health Center in 1982. In the summer of 2019, he welcomed tenance, to make sure I stay pain free.” his son-in-law, Dr. Zack Brazzell, to the practice. They offer a wide variety of chiropractic care “I absolutely recommend Sugar Land Health modalities and associated therapies to help people with pain find relief and improve their overall Center,” continues Dr. Matytsin. “Everyone health. Through his 40 plus years as a chiropractor, Dr. Harris has developed his own methods there, from the front desk to the doctors, is and treatments for every layer of the body to promote healing. so nice! They make you feel like you’re in the Like most initial consultations at Sugar Land Health right place, that you’re not alone. Dr. Harris Center, Dr. Harris first did x-rays to get a full visual of is a great person! He’s a good Christian man what was going on with Dr. Matytsin’s back and neck. that just wants to help people...a great asset He then put together a treatment plan. Dr. Matytsin to our community.” says, “It was a customized plan that involved lots of different treatments, including impulse adjustNew Patient Special ments, spinal decompression, electrical therapy and laser treatments. Some treatments, such as pressure wave therapy, were done by Dr. Brazzell, and most Exam & Consultation were with Dr. Harris. The doctors recommended I wear a brace designed to support my back. They . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(. .$125 . . . . .VALUE . . . . . . . .) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . were strengthening my spine, opening up space for If you live in pain, we are here to help. my spinal discs, and helping the muscles to relax. At the end of my treatment plan, I had an 18% increased opening of space on my C7 disc...I had avoided sur- Does not apply to Medicare or Personal Injury. gery! My neck sounds much better when I move it,
COMPLIMENTARY
281-980-1050
- X-rays at regular charge.
Dr. Steve Harris and the newest member of SLHC, Dr. Zack Brazzell
Follow us! sugarlandhealthcenter @sugarlandhealthcenter DrSteveHarrisDC Check out our new look!
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- Additional charges may apply.
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Sugar Land Health Center 281-980-1050 3425 Highway 6, Suite 101 (behind McDonalds near Williams Trace Blvd) Sugar Land, TX 77478 UPCLOSE ~ April 2021 ~ 15
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