2015 03 sl 1 3

HERE

Magazine

TEXAS...

IN

March 2015

HERE TEXAS...

IN

WE HAVE PRETTY STRONG OPINIONS

ABOUT WHAT MAKES A TRULY GREAT CHILI.

WHO HAS THE BEST CHILI IN FORT BEND H

?

ere in Texas we have pretty strong opinions about what makes a truly great chili.

Now it’s almost time to put it all on the line at the 5th Annual Classic Chevy Sugar Land Chili Challenge. Don Kerstetter of Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land says, “Our 2014 Chili Challenge raised $20,000 for the Sugar Land Police Officer’s Association... that’s $7,000 more than last year! Presenting the check to Officers Brett Hayes, Lauren Stockholm, Harris Johnston, and Charles Krachala was a pleasure and a privilege. Now it’s time to challenge ourselves and our community...can we beat that record in 2015? I know you’ve been perfecting your chili recipes and I can’t wait to taste the competition!”

5th Annual Classic Chevy Sugar Land Chili Challenge on May 7, 2015 from 4-8pm Ready to throwdown with your own super-secret recipe or with Dad’s kicking concoction? Bring your Spicy, Specialty, Texas or Bean to the 5th Annual Classic Chevy Sugar Land Chili Challenge on May 7, 2015 from 4-8pm for a chance to win cash, trophies, and serious bragging rights. Teams need to submit the $50 entry fee per category or tent space. You’ll need to register in advance by calling Classic Chevy Sugar Land at 281-9694132 or emailing Patty Werner pwerner@classicchevysugarland.com. Then bring the heat or the sweet…three gallons of your best chili for the competition (which must be cooked on-site in accordance with Health Department regulations) along with decorations for your booth. Can’t choose between your favorite recipes? There’s always room for more chili. You can enter in as many categories as you wish!

Who says family dinner has to happen around the kitchen table? You won’t find a better combination of good eats and great fun anywhere in town! Mark Kolon, General

www.classicchevys

Sales Manager, says “We’ll have a live band, kids’ games, a bouncy house (monitored in previous years with the able assistance of members of the Stafford High School JROTC), fire trucks, live entertainment...and gallons of amazing chili. We’ll also have a panel of celebrity judges including Mayor Jimmy Thompson (or his representative), Mark Hartman, Lead Pastor of Sugar Creek Baptist Church, and Susie and Doug Goff...but the most important is always YOU! A $2 donation for admission (benefiting the Police Fund) will get you into the event for all the chili you can eat...and don’t forget a pocket full of dollars to vote for your favorites! Classic Chevy Sugar Land will cover all expenses for this event, so all money raised will go to the Sugar Land Police. We hope you’ll enjoy dropping by and seeing why we invite you to ‘Relax and Enjoy the Difference’ at Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land!”

Let’s join with Mayor Thompson and all our local favorites in supporting this delicious Sugar Land annual event...community fun for the whole family!

For additional information please contact Patty Werner, Cindy Dies or Mark Kolon at Classic Chevy: pwerner@classicchevysugarland.com, cdeis@classicchevysugarland.com, mkolon@classicchevysugarland.com

DO YOU? SHOP FORT BEND

281-491-9000

13115 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478

sugaland.com

UPCLOSE ~ March 2015 ~ 3

Like No Other Doctor I’ve Known!

“W

hile I was sitting at my desk, my feet would swell badly,” says Karen Bankert. “A co-worker told me his wife sought treatment for her varicose veins from a wonderful local Vascular Surgeon, Ulises Baltazar...so I made my first appointment with him about a year ago. I had already been to other doctors on and off, but none of them gave me an answer like Dr. Baltazar. He told me with a gentle smile, ‘I know you won’t want to hear this, but welcome...you’ll be a lifelong patient!’”

“Dr. Baltazar explained what no other doctor had told me. I suffer from a chronic genetic condition called venous insufficiency. Other doctors promised that simply zapping

a vein would fix the problem, but it kept coming back. Dr. Baltazar explained that the problem will reoccur and that on my left leg venous insufficiency affects my deep veins.

There’s no way to operate on those. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, and wearing compression stockings at least four times a week will help me live an active life.”

“Seeing Dr. Baltazar is such a pleasure. He’s laughed with me and cried with me. When Dr. Baltazar tells you the truth, you appreciate it. He cares about his patients more than any doctor I’ve known. I also noticed a big difference in the way he made sure the environment was completely sterile before using a laser to collapse a vein. I told him I’d had the procedure done before by other doctors...but never with such attention to detail. Dr. Baltazar is the best doctor I’ve ever known.”

“As part of my maintenance care, I go for checkups and it’s like visiting family. I walk in and they greet me by name.

We talk about our lives and families. Dr. Baltazar is so concerned about catering to his patients that I’ve seen his staff order out lunch because he’s seeing patients on their lunch break...and working through his own! I feel so good knowing he’s there to take care of me!”

If you have venous insufficiency like Karen, faulty valves in your veins allow blood to flow backwards and pool, leading to discomfort and more serious problems. Dr. Baltazar says, “Venous insufficiency can lead to varicose veins and can be associated with potentially lethal clots in the deep venous system called deep venous thrombosis (DVT). As Karen discovered, I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all treatment. We might consider scelrotherapy, phlebectomies, or time-efficient, in-office laser vein removal. However, some larger veins can’t or shouldn’t be destroyed. The Greater Saphenous veins, for example, can be used for heart bypasses or to replace other faulty or blocked arteries in our body. We may treat those with lifestyle changes, compression stockings, and careful monitoring. My professional and personal success is based upon the quality of care I offer each and every patient...not the quantity of veins I treat!”

Ulises Baltazar MD, RVT, FACS now affiliated with the renowned Methodist Cardiovascular Surgery Associates 281-240-8400 16605 Southwest Freeway Ste 505 (in the Methodist Professional Building 3) 4 ~ UPCLOSE ~ March 2015

Get In the Zone and Conquer the Cage!

is how we do it...

T

by Sarah Warburton

ired of being just another number at a big-box gym? Ready to trade in a “same-old, same-old” workout that delivers minimal results? Unleash your inner athlete and celebrate real changes at DropZone Fitness Sugar Land, a cutting edge gym where “everybody knows your name!”

Owner of DropZone Fitness homegrown right here in Sugar Land, Michele Tandy-Gutierrez says, “When I was designing DropZone, I knew we had to add a ‘Rage Cage.’ It might sound intimidating, but it reminded me of my six-year-old son’s indoor playscape. The Rage Cage is essentially a big jungle gym for adults! In one of our year-round ‘Cage Classes’ you’ll work out five days a week with a group using ropes, doing pull-ups, using kettlebells, and having a blast!”

You don’t have to choose between an aerobic workout, boot camp, sports-training, plyometrics, or weights...DropZone Fitness Sugar Land offers the best of every fitness discipline 24-hours a day! Achieve your goals by rotating between boxing on the heavy bag, throwing and catching weighted balls on the rebounder, climbing combat ropes, swinging kettlebells, customizable machines that work two (or more!) muscles, or sweating on the water rowing machine or the treadmill. Your wristband “credential” works like an EZ pass so you can unlock the door, check yourself in, and fuel up with protein snacks or drinks around the clock…making DropZone like a fully tricked out personal gym complete with your own support staff!

You and your health come first at DropZone Fitness Sugar Land. Michele says, “We only hire qualified personal trainers with the proper credentials. They are also friendly and always happy to answer your questions and help you customize your workout. Our specialties are weight management (whether you want to slim down or bulk up), body sculpting, and youth sports performance. Knowing you individually means even more than greeting you by name...it means we can recommend routines and machines that will help you reach your goals.”

Drop the excuses and get ready for the next best thing in fitness...results! Michele says, “Our ‘Fit Fam’ is also active on Facebook...and you can get a ‘sneak peak’ of the Rage Cage there. Look for me on Instagram and Twitter as @CheleFit for a taste of all we have to offer. Contact me at 281-937-7514 or michele@dropzonesl.com for information about our upcoming Cage Classes and Youth Sports Performance training.”

Ready for a gym that caters to you? Drop everything and run to DropZone Fitness Sugar Land. This new family-style boutique gym will celebrate a Ribbon-Cutting ceremony on Friday, March 13 and the Grand Opening on Saturday March 14. Be the first of your friends to conquer the Rage Cage and “win” at fitness!

DropZone Fitness Sugar Land 281-937-7514 19875 Southwest Freeway Suite 290 Sugar Land, Texas www.dropzonesl.com

UPCLOSE ~ March 2015 ~ 5

HEALTH MATTERS WITH DR. STEVE HARRIS RELIEVING YOUR PAIN AT ITS SOURCE

Relieving Your

Pain from Auto

Accident Injuries

Vannessa’s Story

“I

always say that a few aches and pains remind you that you’re alive,” says local mom Vanessa Reed. But after Vanessa’s car was hit from behind in a fender bender, she started having sharp shooting pains down the back of her thighs.

Walking from the car park to her lawyer’s office was agony. She says, “I didn’t get results from my regular doctor. Then in late October my lawyer recommended that I visit Dr. Steve Harris at Sugar Land Health Center...and I was ready to try anything!”

Vanessa couldn’t just take a few pain pills and hope for the best. She’s always on the run at work and at home! She says, “I have two active kids...and having them on sports teams means that I’m a ‘team mom.’ The pain I felt was impacting my ability to parent them, and pills always give me ‘medicine-head.’ Dr. Harris was very understanding and accommodating as he identified my issues and directed my treatment.” Luckily, chiropractic treatment is non-invasive, non-surgical, non-narcotic...and effective!

With over thirty years of experience in advanced chiropractic techniques, Dr. Harris practices soft tissues techniques used by only 150 people anywhere in the world. Vanessa says, “At my first visit Dr. Harris started with my x-ray. He showed me problems that had been there even before the accident aggravated them. Dr. Harris gave me adjustments, did soft tissue work, and also used an oscillator. He has a Triton DTS disc decompression machine and a strong, hot laser machine, but I didn’t need them. At my most recent visit, Dr. Harris considered my x-rays and congratulated me on my recovery and spine straightening.

Now I spring out of bed every morning and I feel better than I did even before the accident!”

“Years ago I had a single visit to a chiropractor, so I didn’t know what to expect from Dr. Harris. He and everyone at Sugar Land Health Center are so nice and incredibly knowledgeable. I’ve been extremely pleased with their service. As someone who’s very sensitive to medication, it’s wonderful to know I can get effective treatment without it!”

6 ~ UPCLOSE ~ March 2015

www.upclosemagazine.com

New Patient Special Free Exam and Consultation ($115 value) We take great pleasure in offering a professional and friendly experience at Sugar Land Health Center in Sugar Land.

Call us today at

281-980-1050.

We are here to HELP. Does not apply to Medicare or Personal Injury.

“If you’ve been suffering from chronic pain, visit Dr. Harris. I know why he comes so highly recommended…he delivered more than I ever expected!”

Sugar Land Health Center 281-980-1050 3425 Highway 6, Suite 101 (behind McDonalds) Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.chiropractor-sugarland.com

FOR

BUILT BUILT

SUMMER. LIFE.

Anthony & Sylvan builds pools that families love.

For more than 40 years in Texas, Anthony & Sylvan® Pools has offered the perfect balance of gorgeous pools crafted to last a lifetime. So no matter what you desire, our local, licensed designers and builders work with you step by step

to design and create the pool of your dreams. And it’s all backed by a lifetime warranty. Anthony & Sylvan Pools are built for life and that’s a lifetime of wonderful summer fun.

Call our friendly design consultants today at 281.916.1690.

AnthonySylvanSugarLand.com

UPCLOSE ~ March 2015 ~ 7

A New Solution Reveals Your

W

True Beauty

hen you look in the mirror, do you like what you see? Dr. Eric Humble says, “Rejuvenation is about making your internal vision a reality, so you can enjoy your life with joy and confidence!”At Sugar Land Face & Body Plastic Surgery with its in-house AAAASF certified surgical center, board-certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Humble has created a single destination with a full range of solutions from injectables to facial rejuvenation, breast augmentation, and body contouring all under one roof. Also under the same roof is Dr. Humble’s cutting-edge medical spa.

Dr. Humble and his staff share a philosophy of caring for their patients. “Simply put...everyone should leave our facility feeling better than when they walk through our doors,” says Dr. Humble.

Your journey of transformation begins with a complimentary consultation. “We have technology and solutions you might not find anywhere else like the new Fractora Skin Resurfacing treatment,” says Marty Knesek, R.N, Lead Injectionist at Sugar Land Face & Body. “During our consultation, we’ll chat about your concerns and I’ll explain the range of treatments available and educate you on their possibilities. Knowing what to expect during and after a procedure helps patients relax and achieve their optimum results.”

You can get the effects of three different treatments in one single procedure with the advanced fractional radiofrequency treatment Fractora. “Essentially,” says Marty,

“Fractora offers the benefits of a resurfacing treatment to reduce wrinkles and lines, as well as rejuvenating your skin to improve texture, tone and radiance, and it also helps with discoloration.

Additionally, Fractora stimulates the skin to produce more collagen and elastin, literally making skin look younger.

It’s phenomenal to offer many results from a single procedure...so patients are more comfortable and recover with less downtime. Since Fractora is appropriate for all different skin tones, it really opens up possibilities for anyone who wants to slow the effects of aging and restore the youthful look of their skin.”

With nearly nineteen years as a registered nurse, Marty has a gift for connecting with patients and a passion for the work she does at Sugar Land Face & Body. She says, “I was an OB nurse for fourteen years, until a doctor introduced me to aesthetics. I’ve been so lucky to work with Doctors Lin and Eric Humble. Coming to a spa with advanced treatments like Fractora is thrilling...but it’s the level of medical expertise and the depth of caring demonstrated by the doctors and all our staff that really makes Sugar Land Face & Body a one-of-a-kind med spa!”

When you behold yourself in the mirror, you deserve to look and feel beautiful. Pamper yourself and restore your glow with the wide variety of spa services and packages available at Sugar Land Face & Body.

Sugar Land Face & Body Plastic Surgery and Med Spa 281-313-0555 | 16926 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77479 | www.beautybecomesyou.com

UpClose Magazine Reminds you to Get Involved Support the American Cancer Society www.cancer.org 2015 Couture for the Cause Twitter: @couture15cause Instagram: @coutureforthecause Facebook.com/coutureforthecause On The Cover 5th Annual Classic Chili Challenge Publisher Gina Pizzini Editor Gina Pizzini Business Editor Sarah Warburton Layout and Design Night Sky Creative Account Executives Sara Adams Sharon Ballint

Support Local Business & Community Organizations 5th Annual Classic Chevy Sugar Land Chili Challenge on May 7, 2015 from 4-8pm benefiting the Sugar Land Police Officer's Association

Something funny’s going on at Fort Bend Theatre, in this awardwinning comedy about a shy and awkward foreigner’s adventure in the wilds of rural Georgia. It’s amazing how people reveal their innermost secrets and devious plots to a stranger they think knows no English...but does he? Like our FACEBOOK page for a chance to

Writers Steven Devadanam Joelie Key-Tissot Stacey Keith Amy Sharp Sarah Warburton Photography J. Thomas “Jay” Ford UpClose Magazine is published monthly and direct mailed to 150,000 homes.

For information on having your business featured in UpClose, call Gina Pizzini at 281.235.0600.

WIN FREE TICKETS

A portion of the editorial content contained in this

“The Foreigner!”

advertisers contained herein and is part of their

to

publication is controlled and contracted by the

advertisement. UpClose Magazine is not responsible for content of these editorials or advertisements. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without the written

8

p.

consent of the publisher.

Tracking Down Innovative Technology & the Latest in “Must-Have” Beauty Solutions

To read an issue online:

www.UpCloseMagazine.com

F CUS

Meet Dr. Campbell dly n e i r F Your orhood hb Neig ounding p Com macist.

Phar

The Perfect Blend of Customization and Convenience

E

by Amy Sharp

ver wonder exactly what compounded medicine is and why you might need it? Dr. Lance Campbell, Pharm.D., R.Ph. at Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy in Sugar Land sat down with us to shed some light on the benefits of compounded medicine.

“Compounding allows a medication to be personalized for an individual patient,” says Dr. Campbell. “The ability to create these personalized medications allows us to help patients with a wide variety of needs. Sometimes it’s as simple as a medication that is difficult to find or has been discontinued. This often happens when not enough people are using the drug and it becomes unprofitable to continue mass-producing it. But what about the few people benefiting from the drug? Compound pharmacists can recreate it! Even if you are the only person in the world taking the medication, you can have it thanks to compounded medicine!”

Commercially manufactured medications commonly contain lactose, preservatives, dyes, gluten, sugar and a variety of other nonactive ingredients. Dr. Campbell says, “From allergies and intolerance to diets and lifestyle, there are a variety of reasons individuals avoid many of these items. But when you need the medicine, a compounding pharmacist can create a personalized formulation to give you the treatment you need while leaving out the problematic ingredients.

A great example is compounded pain-relief medications that won’t afflict you with side effects like drowsiness, impaired driving, or upset

10 ~ UPCLOSE ~ March 2015

stomach...so you can conquer your pain without compromising your safety!”

And sometimes you just want your medication to be easier to use!

“How many parents have held down their toddler to squirt bitter Augmentin into their mouth?” asks Dr. Campbell, “Did you know a compounding pharmacist can flavor many medications...making them more palatable without losing their effectiveness? Very handy for children, elderly patients and even pets! We can also compound your medicines in different dosage formats...like an anti-nausea cream that’s rubbed on the inside of the wrist so your kids can keep it down.”

And at Campbell’s, it’s not just compounded medicines that are easier! “I know how important convenience is in today’s world,” says Dr. Campbell. “We’re proud to be a pharmacy that can take care of you and your family across the board. From specialized compounded medications to blood pressure medications to prenatal vitamins to antibiotics, I can work closely with you to fill your family’s needs.

We accept major prescription and insurance plans and Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy stock all commercially 281-980-2555 available medications.

“If our staff can’t make it…

Get all of the medicine then you probably don’t need it!” you need at one friendly 4760 Sweetwater Blvd. Suite 103 neighborhood stop!” www.campbellscompounding.com

www.upclosemagazine.com

MAKING ALL THE RIGHT MOVES

Y

by Sarah Warburton

ou don’t have to choose between having your stuff moved by a couple of neighbor kids or going with a large impersonal company. Make the right move with Two Men & a Truck where the friendly, personal service you want comes with the professionalism you need. Teddy Gryska and Marcus Jones, co-owners of our Sugar Land location, say, “From packing to moving to unpacking, we’ll take you anywhere you want to go...locally, long distance, or across the country. We handle the logistics of moving your items from place to another... and remove your worries!”

Our own “Two Men” got their start in Alabama. Teddy was earning his MBA at the University of Alabama and helping run his family business...but he wanted to strike out on his own. Marcus had over seven years experience with Two Men & a Truck, the largest moving franchise in the US with international locations including Canada, England, and Ireland. During Teddy’s apprenticeship with Two Men & a Truck, he and Marcus realized they had a shared vision for a location in Southwest Houston. Teddy says,

“We knew we were the perfect team to bring Two Men & a Truck to Sugar Land.”

Over the past year, this business has been moving up! Credit goes to the “Grandma Rule.” Teddy says, “We treat every customer like we would want our own grandmother to be treated. We only hire good people we’d welcome into our own home. If you’re moving out of state, we’ll guarantee the time we pack you up, only your belonging will be on the truck, and the only stops will be food, fuel, and rest...so you’ll know when we’ll deliver your things.

You won’t have to sit around an empty house for days or worry that a box will get lost or misdelivered. We pay attention to detail, communicate, and really care about you and your belongings.”

“Call us anytime for a free estimate,” says Marcus. “We also sell boxes and everything you need to get packed. If you order over $100 worth, we’ll even deliver them right to you. We’ll do anything we can to make the entire process easy and worry-free!”

281-240-9200

12703 Capricorn Street Ste 900, Stafford, TX 77477 US DOT 2436959 | MC 840371-C | TXDMV 006768139C

UPCLOSE ~ March 2015 ~ 11

NoFears,No Tears, Just FUN!

W

hen it comes to your kids, you’d do anything to ease their fears and see them smile. You might use “monster-be-gone” room freshener spray under the bed or leave a night light on after dark...but how do you erase a child’s fear of the dentist? Mrs. Rivera says, “About eight years ago, my oldest son had a lot of dental work done...and it was a bad experience. Afterwards, he got scared if we even mentioned going to the dentist. I think it was my sister who first suggested we try Little People’s Dentistry. From our very first visit, we all loved Dr. Sanchez right away! Now Daniel is fourteen and he and his brother, tenyear-old Nathan and his six-year-old sister Rebeca actually want to go the dentist...even before it’s time for their appointment. I never imagined that would happen!”

Little People’s Dentistry is the only dental experience Rebeca has known...so she has always thought going to the dentist is awesome! Her mom says, “About a month ago Rebeca had her very first dental work, some fillings, and she was even excited about that experience! I thought she would be at least a little upset, but Dr. Sanchez made her feel comfortable. Rebeca was so happy and smiling when she got her tokens and prizes at the end. I feel good knowing that they enjoy taking care of their teeth. Dr. Sanchez and her team have been wonderful!”

A “kid-at-heart” as well as the energetic mom of her own two children, baby Gemma Belle and big brother Diego, Dr. Bianca Sanchez says, “It’s not unusual for kids to fear the unknown or to pick up on

a parent’s fear of dental work...but I promise that at Little People’s Dentistry, we’re all about the fun! From the frozen custard signs to the movie posters, hopscotch, and California theme...I drew on favorite moments from my own childhood. We clean teeth with tools like Mr. Whistle, Mr. Bumpy, and Mr. Thirsty and hand out goodie bags and tokens for prizes and games. Our patients love our coloring contest and the chance to win big prizes!”

Little People’s Dentistry “Because Kidz Are People, Too.” 281-261-0020 4706 Riverstone Blvd., Suite 200 (behind Kohl’s in Riverstone) www.LittlePeoplesDentistry.com

A FREE 8” One Topping Pizza with any purchase of $25 or more Offer Valid for Dine In, Carry Out or Delivery. Please print this coupon and present to the cashier. One coupon per person. Offer not good with any other special offers.

Expires 03-31-2015

Order online, call in, or drop by one of our local stores at your convenience. We are always glad to hear from you at Pepperoni’s.

First Colony (281) 265-5555 Sienna (281) 778-7888

Greatwood (281) 545-3333 Pecan Grove (281) 239-6565

12 ~ UPCLOSE ~ March 2015

Fulshear (281) 533-0000 Riverstone (281) 261-6665

Katy (281) 394-5565 Rosenberg (832) 595-0550

Montrose (713) 526-0202 ing Firethorne !

Com Soon (281) 392-3900

Next Stop...St. Michael’s!

Is it a MEDICAL EMERGENCY? Did you know?

Your insurance benefits may change year by year...and your insurance company may hide those changes in the fine print. Usually, there are different levels of co-pays required for a visit to a doctor’s office, an urgent care, or an emergency room. However, only YOU determine whether your symptoms constitute an emergency and only YOU choose where to go. According to Texas law, if you THINK your symptoms will cause harm without treatment...that IS an emergency. And 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.” Dr. Orsak says, “St. Michael’s is one of the few licensed, free-standing ER facilities with Joint Commission Accreditation, ACR certified radiology suites, and CLIA certified labs. We are in-network with AETNA and also accept more than 200 insurance plans, including Cigna, Blue Cross, United, and Humana. Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, fifty-two weeks a year, St. Michael’s Emergency Room is always ready to help your family with the highest standard of care!”

Making a Life or Death Decision

W

hen emergencies happen, local families overwhelmingly choose St. Michael’s Emergency Rooms. But with healthcare options popping up on every corner, how do you decide whether to seek emergency care or to go to an urgent care facility? Understanding the difference between your choices can truly save your life!

An urgent care center serves as an afterhours substitute for your doctor’s office, not as an alternative to emergency care. If you go to an urgent care clinic, the only staff may be a nurse practitioner, untrained in triaging critical trauma patients. If you have a lifethreatening emergency, you could end up

being re-directed to EMS or 911…and more time will be lost. The wait at an urgent care can be quite long, depending on how many other patients have arrived. If you need labs, x-rays, or diagnostic tests, you may have to wait for hours or visit a different facility. If you’re having a stroke or a heart attack, if your child is suffering from meningitis, a concussion, or a

mysteriously high fever, you need St. Michael’s Emergency Rooms...where seconds count and your family comes first!

If you are ever in doubt, the safest choice is always an emergency room. Dr. Shannon Orsak, Co-founder of St. Michael’s Emergency Rooms, says, “Emergency rooms

are equipped to provide fast, across-theboard, life-saving care. As Sugar Land’s first free-standing ER, St. Michael’s has nine exam rooms (including specially designated pediatric rooms) an on-site X-ray, Ultrasound and CT, an on-site diagnostic lab and a team of ER-trained doctors, nurses and technicians available around the clock and capable of handling any emergency for patients of all ages. We designed every aspect of St. Michael’s to offer the very best care... without the wait so common at hospitalbased ERs!” At this time St Michael’s due to governmental bureaucratic decisions is unable to participate in Medicare, Medicaid, or Tricare.

St. Michael’s Emergency Rooms 16062 SW Freeway (at Hwy 6) Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-980-HELP

9000 Westheimer Houston, TX 77063 713-343-0911

26226 I 45 N. Spring, TX 77386 281-419-2911

www.StMichaelsER.com

UPCLOSE ~ March 2015 ~ 13

DETOX TRIO ORGANIC TEA=

A NEW YOU!

P

eople may choose Detox Trio to jumpstart a successful weight-program, get glowing skin and a flat tummy... but all those are side benefits. The primary purpose of Robin Anthony’s products is to eliminate nasty parasites from your system! One woman wrote, “Yesterday I went to the bathroom like I normally do in the morning since starting the Detox Trio. I noticed in my stool clear white round shapes with specks mixed in. Today I passed two clear white round shapes. At first I thought it was the paper for the toilet seat cover, but that was still intact on the toilet! I wanted some type of answer...and my search turned up hookworm eggs. I expected to pass some things with the detox, but imagine having something come out of you that isn’t something you’ve eaten recently. All I can say to the skeptics is the product really works!”

It can be hard to believe you’re walking around with parasites in your system. You don’t necessarily feel them, and you don’t see them. It’s a case of “out of sight, out of mind.” However, there are multiple symptoms. Things like gas, bloating, constipation, an inability to lose weight, craving alcohol and sugar, having rashy skin, teary eyes, itching and crawling sensations all over your body...and dozens more! In fact, there’s a 90% chance your body is infested with parasites.

Maybe you still don’t think you could have parasites. Mike sure didn’t think he did! He got Detox Trio to jump start his weight loss goals. Then one fateful day he looked down after using the

14 ~ UPCLOSE ~ March 2015

restroom and saw a huge dead parasite that he just passed! He was dumbfounded. He took a picture and sent it to Robin in total shock. Detox Trio vanquished his cravings for bread, wine and sweets and helped him lose weight...and it worked by eliminating parasites from his system! Parasites in your system make you seriously crave sugar, soda and junk food. Conquering them with Detox Trio will spark your weight loss.

You need every tool available to conquer tricky parasites and reclaim your best health. Happy customers have been calling Robin’s Organic Tea Leaves the “Detox Trio Booster.”

Combining the Detox Trio with Organic Tea Leaves and a cleaner diet can give you feeling of a new you. One woman wrote, “I have been taking the Organic Tea Leaves now for about six weeks twice a day. I no longer suffer joint pain, so I can finally exercise without pain...and have lost 15 pounds. If you don’t get a good night’s rest, you’re on edge, especially if it’s recurring. Thanks to the Organic Tea Leaves my mood is better, my hot flashes cooled off, and I can sleep throughout the night. My energy, my libido, and my diabetes are improving! Thank you so much, Robin!”

Are you ready for a makeover from the inside out? You can banish parasites and reclaim your life with Robin Anthony’s Renu Herbs.

RENU HERBS 713-541-4372 888-644-3727 (HERBS) 8785 S Gessner Rd, Houston, TX 77074 www.renuherbs.com

www.upclosemagazine.com

Secrets the Pros Know

SAT

SUN

MON

TUE

WED

THU

FRI

It’s Hard To Stop A Trane

103 102 102 101 102 108 113 80 80 80 79 78 82 84 HUMID

73

HUMID

72

HUMID

72

HUMID

74

HUMID

83

HUMID

80

HUMID

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It’s Hard To Stop A Trane

D

o you ever find yourself wondering what doctor your doctor goes to for medical care? Or who does your hairdresser’s hair? On some level, we suspect that the services our professionals use must be the very best. So here’s the “insider secret” from top air-conditioning & heating installation and repair guru, Brian Jackson of Jackson Air & Heat. Install a variable speed Trane XV20i air conditioner with TruComfort ™ Technology. It’s what he uses in his own home and his whole family agrees that it’s amazing!

“TruComfort ™ systems are as innovative as they are reliable,” Brian explains.

“They run at the exact speed necessary to keep your home comfortable. The unit is whisper quiet, removes humidity--which is essential to anyone who has survived one

of Houston’s ‘dog breath’ summers--and consumes a lot less electricity than your old energy-guzzler. But here’s the part that I really love. I can control the system from anywhere with my phone.”

Even if you aren’t ready to replace your existing unit yet, it’s good sense (and good cents!) to have Brian and the professionals at Jackson Air & Heat come out to tune it up. “An annual tune-up will save you money on your electric bill,” Brian says. “But it will also prolong the life of your equipment. A lot of potentially costly repairs can be nipped in the bud before they become a problem. If your family is playing ‘thermostat wars’ because no one is comfortable, that’s usually a sign that your equipment is struggling to do its job.”

The time to invest in a new air conditioning system is never when Fort Bend’s temperatures are already hovering near the triple digits. The time to prepare is NOW.

That why Jackson Air & Heat makes it easy with 0% financing or up to $2000 in instant rebates.”We want you to receive maximum value for your hard-earned money,” Brian says. “We’ve been in Fort Bend County for thirty three years now and are proud to be EPA and NATE certified, repeat winners of the “Award of Excellence” from the Better Business Bureau, endorsed by SugarLandNetwork. com and recipients of the Angie’s List Super Service Award. Most of our new customers come from referrals we receive from satisfied customers. You are literally the reason we are here. That’s why your comfort is our business!”

Jackson Air and Heat, Inc. Sugar Land’s Oldest Independent Trane Dealer License #TACLB29585 281-240-1037

We See Perfect Indoor Weather In Your Forecast

UPCLOSE ~ March 2015 ~ 15

TIME TO

UPGRADE

FIRST FROM COACH TO

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281-499-6067 1206 Hagerson Road Sugar Land, TX 77479 Personal Training Studio and Fitness Center

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My goal is to make you look and feel beautiful! I am a licensed Esthetician and Make-Up Artist specializing in facials, chemical peels, threading, and full body waxing. I also am a Specialist in Image Skin Care Products which effectively help treat and prevent aging, promote hydration, balance acne-prone skin, and also illuminate uneven skin tones. Please contact me to receive your unforgettable experience! www.facebook.com/ faceitbyjocelyn 832-278-3644

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Capotano 281-832-0152

As a professional stylist for almost thirty years, Charise is motivated by her love of the beauty industry and her commitment to her team members and loyal clients. She enjoys haircutting and styling to bring out everyone’s inner beauty. Keeping up with the latest trends, she will do her best to keep you updated.

She says, “Hair is my art and I love the process of transforming someone from start to finish.” A Native Texan, she’s proud to be your hairstylist!

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First Colony Commons

MIRACLETREATMENTS

If time and money are not on your side try this home upgrade that pays off!

W

hen you put your home up for sale, the first impression is the only impression that matters! But how do you decide which rooms need an upgrade to be “market-worthy” and how much to spend? Jonee and Paul Barnett say, “Real estate agents recommend Miracle Method Surface Refinishing because they know that buyers don’t just buy a home, they buy a kitchen. But no one wants to do a major remodel before moving.

That’s where we come in. In just a few days, we can make your kitchen and bathrooms look brand new!”

Sure, if you had a limitless timeline and an infinite budget, you could build a new kitchen “from scratch.”

Paul and Jonee But would you be pricBarnett ing your home right out of the market? Jonee says, “Giving your kitchen a Miracle Method facelift can change the way people think about your entire house. Miracle Method transforms tile, cultured marble, Corian®, Formica®, Wilsonart® and other laminate countertops.…without ripping

them out. Our work comes with a five-year warranty to protect your investment...and that warranty is transferrable to your homebuyers!”

Quick fixes before selling always pay off. Mammoth makeovers, not so much. And let’s face it, if you’re getting ready to sell your home, you’re also getting ready to move. Do you have time for a complete overhaul? “You can get a big change without a big hassle,” says Paul. “All surface damage to tiles, tubs, and counters is cleaned, filled and sanded before we refinish. The ceramic tile in your shower, your tub, your sink, and counter can all be given a stylish enameled look, or finished with Natural Accents™ for the multicolor appearance and texture of stone...and you’ll still have plenty of time to get everything staged for your first prospective buyers!”

The prettier the kitchen, the quicker the sale of the home. Jonee says, “Just remember, you don’t have to wait until you’re ready to sell to get a bathroom or kitchen that looks like new. We’re always ready to change your ‘old’ kitchen into a ‘new’ one you’ll love. Call us for a free consultation!”

Miracle Method Surface Refinishing 281-240-2284 603 Murphy Road (by appointment only), Stafford, TX www.miraclemethod.com/houstonsw

What’s Draining

Your

We’re

Chasing Leaks for

Fix a Leak Week March 16–22, 2015

Bank Account?

by Joelie Key-Tissot

H

ow would you feel if a stranger entered your home to do their laundry, take a shower or use your dishwasher several times a week on your dime? Having a leak is like giving water (and money) away. Don’t let leaks drain your bank account!

Mark your calendar for March 16-22, National “Fix-A-Leak-Week.”

The average U.S. family household leaks waste 10,000 gallons of water per year. That’s the equivalent to 270 loads of laundry! 10% of American homes have leaks that waste up to 90 gallons of water a DAY. Is your home one of them? Does your water meter show usage after a 2-hour period when no water is being used? Walk around and look for the culprits! A faucet that leaks one drip per second

uses enough water for 180 showers.

A showerhead leaking at 10 drips per minute equals 60 dishwasher loads!

Some leaky toilets are completely silent. Put a drop of food coloring in your toilet tank and if the color shows up in the bowl within 15 minutes with no flushing, you have proof of a leak!

If you DO find a leak on your FixA-Leak-Week walk-through this year, don’t panic...just call Alan’s Plumbing.

Every time you call, you’ll be helped

by Alan Burkhalter, his brother Chris Burkhalter, his wife Jennifer (on the phone), and their sons Luke and Beau.

Is the problem one of your faucets?

Alan says, “Almost all faucets come with lifetime warranties (on the part, not the labor) from the manufacturer. Send us a quick phone snapshot of your faucet

so we can identify your brand for you.

You’ll save money on the part and I’ll save time fixing it...and stopping that leak will save you money!”

As a small business owner and the father of three sons, Alan believes in keeping an eye on your bottom line.

Choosing a family-owned and operated company keeps your costs low and your money local, and you’ll get great service from folks you can trust to stop those leaks from draining your bank account!

Your Hometown Plumbers Alan’s Plumbing

281-261-1064 License M-18995

ALANS-PLUMBING.COM

UPCLOSE ~ March 2015 ~ 19

A Strong, Healthy Smile...

Amy Sharp On Your Timeline and Your Budget

“M

ore than half of adults are not happy with their smile.” says Dr. Thomas Lomonte, D.D.S. of Stafford. “Yet I hear people say all the time that they just can’t afford to fix their smile right now. I’m not sure where this concept of ‘fix it right now’ came from, but chances are whatever is going on with your teeth did not happen overnight...and you don’t have to fix it overnight either!”

At Dr. Lomonte’s office, you can get a smile makeover on a schedule that works for you. Dr. Lomonte says, “Come in and let us take a look at what’s going on. Whether you are looking to straighten or brighten your smile, close a gap, or create a younger, natural, more attractive look, I can help you find a solution that works for you and your budget... and some options are quicker and easier than you ever imagined!

Even if you need a full-mouth-

Come in as a patient and leave as a friend!

makeover with implants or crowns or veneers, you don’t have to “bite the bullet” and get it all done at once.

Dr. Lomonte says, “I don’t believe in making things confusing or convoluted, so we always lay out the best choices for you...with no fine print or hidden surprises. We offer financing and payment plans and we can workup a timeline that will allow you to budget. Everyone deserves a strong healthy smile and I’m here to make that happen.”

“Seeing my patients is a privilege I never take for granted.

Getting high-quality dental care doesn’t have to be expensive, unpleasant, immediate, or cost you time off from work or sleepless nights. We want you to love your beautiful smile... and love the process of getting it! All of us at this office believe in enjoying life, especially the time we spend with our patients.

We invite you to come in as a patient...and leave as a friend!”

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

Our PassiOn is getting yOu back tO yOurs.

At Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, we know that with so much to enjoy in life, you can’t afford to waste time suffering through joint pain. That’s why we build your treatment around the latest minimally invasive techniques. Our joint replacement specialists have the knowledge and expertise to enable a faster, less painful recovery that helps you get back to doing what you love.

Schedule an appointment online with one of our joint specialists at houstonmethodist.org/orthopedics or call 281.690.4678.

1201 Brooks Street | Sugar Land, TX 77478 20 ~ UPCLOSE ~ March 2015

www.upclosemagazine.com

Spring g

3

Into a

Home Makeover with

Simple

Steps

by Sarah Warburton

T

he birds are singing, the weather is gorgeous, and you’re thinking about getting your house ready for springtime. Whether you’re getting ready to put it on the market or you just want to lighten and brighten your home, Teri Gilberg, aka the Re-modelista, makes it easy to turn drab into fab! She says, “Getting a big change starts with a few simple steps!”

1. Just changing up your cabinets will freshen up your whole kitchen or bathroom...the most-used rooms in every home! Teri says, “We can replace or resurface your cabinets... or we can repaint them. We can switch out the hardware or add a touch of whimsy by painting the insides of your cabinets a different color. A half-bath is a great place to experiment with a bold splash of color or patterns.”

2. Replacing one big surface like a countertop helps make a dramatic change quick and easy. Teri recommends granite countertops.

She says, “Granite’s beautiful mottling and variety of colors and patterns make an impact. It’s super-durable and heat-resistant, adds value to your home, and is often much more affordable than you might think!”

3. Add a splash of style to any kitchen with a custom-created backsplash. Teri says, “We can redo your existing backsplash or create one designed to express your personal style.

Revitalize your home with a happy, updated palette and you’ll be ready for a spring fling! Call the Re-Modelista for a consultation. She’ll give you a range of options and easy tips to make your space bloom with beauty.

As a Floor and Decor Pro Installer now partnered with P&B Lone Star Services, Teri will help you navigate your choices to get the most value for every design dollar you spend. She says, “I’ll coordinate getting the materials, scheduling the contractors, managing the work, and making sure you approve the final look...all with one eye on quality and the other on the bottom line. We make big changes easy. Give us a call and we’ll spring into action to make your dreams come true!”

Re-Modelista: Your Home Renovation Specialist “She Gets the Job Done!”

832-535-2501 or 832-731-3191

www.theReModelista.com

On a Scale of One to Ten,

This Dentist is a Twenty!

W

hen George Craddock received a double-lung transplant in 2005, the drugs which prevented rejection of the transplant also suppressed his natural immune system. “As a result,” he says, “I was more susceptible to infection and my dental health suffered. My own dentist of thirty years had moved away, but as I looked for another dentist who could do the caliber of work needed, I couldn’t find one who would even call me back with a plan.

Finally I found Dr. Zahra Cook...and I knew she had the willingness and the ability to handle even a complicated case like mine!”

“Following a full exam and 3D x-rays, Dr. Cook came up with a plan to replace my upper teeth with a full implant denture...and her office called me right away! Over time Dr. Cook extracted my natural upper teeth, a bridge, and a previous (failed) implant and began prepping my jaw for new implants. She is amazing and I always feel welcome and well-cared for. After my jaw healed, we placed the implant posts and soon afterwards completed the procedure. I retired my temporary denture, snapped in the new one, and walked out with my new teeth. I’d been looking forward to my first meal–a delicious platter-sized chicken fried steak–and I delighted in every bite!”

“This wasn’t a walk-in, walk-out, new teeth in one day, one-size-fits-all experience. Every step was professionally planned and performed and I’m confident these are dentures to last a lifetime. In fact, I expect to eat wedding cake at my granddaughter’s wedding...and she’s only four years old right now!”

Dentures can become loose over time, and can even lead to bone loss. Dr. Cook says, “For a patient like Mr. Craddock, it’s imperative to determine the condition of the jaw to create a strong, stable base for implants. Now we have an on-site Cone Beam Computed Tomography, or CBCT...a specialized x-ray machine that produces precise, detailed 3D images of teeth, jawbones, nerves and soft tissues. Now that Mr. Craddock’s bone is rebuilt and his overdenture is anchored to titanium implants, it won’t slip...and I know he has a strong, healthy smile!”

In addition to the advanced technology available in her office, Dr. Cook has the advanced training to perform advanced procedures including implants and res22 ~ UPCLOSE ~ March 2015

www.upclosemagazine.com

torations, extreme makeover dentures, TMJ treatment, and more. She is a Fellow of the International Congress of Implantologists (FICOI), a Fellow of the Las Vegas Institute of Advanced Dental Studies (LVIF), and a recipient of the elite Master of the Academy of General Dentistry (MAGD) award, earned by less than two percent of all general dentists....but it’s the accolades of her patients that make her smile.

On a scale of 1 to 10, George Craddock rates Dr. Cook a 20, along with her team of assistants, hygienists, office personnel, and her husband (and business manager) David!

He says, “At Dr. Cook’s office, you get a whole new family! Thanks to my great experience, my son and daughter-in-law who live in Waterside Estates are part of the family at Dr. Cook’s office, too!”

Zahra Cook, DMD Advanced Cosmetic Dentist 281-342-8481 1536 FM 359 Rd Richmond, TX 77406 www.cookdental.com

Before

Partial Talo Tarsal Dislocation After

Internally Stabilized / Corrected

A

nyone who suffers from heel pain knows how miserable it can be. There have even been studies showing a possible causal relationship between depression and chronic pain in this part of the body.

It is a condition people frequently describe as “debilitating.”

Your heel pain could be caused by a number of issues like bursitis, plantar fasciitis, flat feet, heel spurs...but there’s one place to find the right diagnosis and treatment! Dr. Vargas of Foot & Ankle Associates has made it his life’s mission not just to alleviate foot, ankle and heel pain, but to fix the underlying causes. “The body works on a continuum,” Dr. Vargas explains. “A misalignment is

CURRENTLY NO WAITING LIST! EARLY INTERVENTION IS IMPORTANT. START THERAPY TODAY.

“Speech therapy isn’t something we ‘do’ to people. They do the work, while we guide them and cheer them on. Whether your child says ‘wabbit’ instead of ‘rabbit’ or your parent struggles to locate the right words or to understand what you’re saying...we’re here to empower all our patients to communicate with confidence.”

A byProven Solution to Heel Pain Luke Worth caused by an inward rotation of the hindfoot, which occurs when the heel bone and the ankle bone slip out of alignment. Aside from heel pain, this misalignment can also affect other parts of the body and cause knee issues, hip issues and back issues. If the foundation is faulty, the whole body is vulnerable to ligament and tendon tears along with a host of related ailments. Medication, injections and over the counter shoe inserts usually only offer partial or temporary pain relief, because they don’t address the underlying problem... the structure and function of the foot itself.”

With Hyprocure, you can enjoy a real and permanent solution to faulty foot mechanics.

The minimally-invasive procedure is quite simple: a small stent is placed inside a naturally-occurring space between the ankle and heel bones. End result? Your quality of life is beautifully restored to you. Dr. Vargas says, “The HyProCure is a stent placed in the foot like an ‘implantable orthotic,’ to help improve foot biomechanics or function and eliminate the need for orthotics. The procedure takes less than ten minutes, is completely reversible and has been performed on patients of all ages, from children to adults... and all activity levels including long distance runners, basketball players, ballerinas and more!”

“Published studies around the world bear out the same fantastic results that my patients are experiencing for themselves,” says Dr. Vargas. “There is no need to suffer.

Come see us and feel like yourself again.”

Marco A Vargas DPM, FACFAS Foot and Ankle Associates 888-784-5335 Sugar Land 281-313-0090 17510 W. Grand Parkway South Houston 281-313-0080 7105 Lawndale Street www.thefootpros.com

Bastine & Associates

The family law firm that cares about families

-

Divorce Child Custody Adoption Child Support Modifications Name Changes Voluntary Paternity Wills Juvenile Law Business Law

Ronique Bastine Robinson

281.240.7979 281-746-3053

www.BastineLaw.com 12603 SW Frwy Suite 571 Stafford, Texas

12808 West Airport Blvd. Ste 332, Sugar Land, TX 77498

www.speechtherapyunlimited.com

UPCLOSE ~ March 2015 ~ 23

All the World’s a Stage...

Are You Ready for the Show?

F

or over 25 years one award-winning theater has been the training ground for actors who are now on Broadway, television series, movies, and have Disney contracts. We aren’t talking about the downtown theater district...we’re talking about Fort Bend Theatre, here in our own backyard! Executive Artistic Director Tarra McCain says, “We take enormous pride in presenting fantastic entertainment for the community...as well as offering acting classes, summer camps, and opportunities for actors to hone their craft.”

Originally, Fort Bend Theatre started as a safe place for kids to come and learn about the arts. Decades later, many of those young dreamers credit this beginning with their professional acting success. Today both Fort Bend Theatre and Tarra herself have won numerous awards for costume design, set design, and youth performances from Texas Non-Profit Theatres. Tarra says, “Every season I try to find a great musical, a play with characters that our actors can really explore in depth, and children’s plays that are based on a good, classic story. Ultimately, each season is crafted to please our audience, challenge our actors, and offer opportunities to create something wonderful.”

Without the hassle of a long drive or paid parking, you can enjoy an unforgettable evening. Get excited about seeing a big musical like “Young Frankenstein” (August 1-3) at the Stafford Centre or visiting Fort Bend Theatre in their home, the Rudy-Katz Building, recently designated as an historical landmark by the Stafford Historical Society and given an elegant facelift with new flooring, seats, and (soon) new curtains. Here you’ll enjoy an outrageous, character-driven comedy like the award-winning classic-to-be “The Foreigner” (April 10-May 3rd) or a beloved children’s story like “Disney’s Cinderella Kids” (June 6-28) or “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe” (July 4-25). Tarra says, “We also have an ‘Action-Reaction Troupe’ of professionallytrained actors between the ages of 8-18. Our A.R.T Players will perform ‘Anne of Green Gables’ (March 20-29) and ‘Little Princess Sara Crewe’ (May 15-31).”

Get in on the act with professional acting classes for all ages...and the uber-popular Summer Musical Theatre camps at Fort Bend Theatre.

Executive Artistic Director Each camp runs four hours a day for one week. Tarra says, “Kids Tarra McCain walk in on Monday and by Friday they put on a musical showcase.

Popular selections include ‘Annie,’ Cinderella‘,’ and the guaranteedto-be-repeated ‘Frozen, The Snow Queen.’ I love seeing how even the shyest kids blossom and gain confidence singing, acting, working the lights, creating costumes, and more! Our youngest acting student has been a four-year-old camper and our oldest has been a seventy-seven-year-old, whose adult grandchild bought him acting classes to fulfill a lifelong dream.”

We do have a special “insider’s tip” for our readers. Fort Bend Theatre’s Summer Camps sell out year after year...but members get priority sign-up weeks in advance. Visit www.fortbendtheatre.com to purchase your annual membership (a steal at $25 - and it’s tax-deductible!), get tickets for the current show, register for classes, and for camps (once they are open for general admission).

May 15-31

August 1-3

July 4-25

Something funny’s going on at Fort Bend Theatre, in this awardwinning comedy about a shy and awkward foreigner’s adventure in the wilds of rural Georgia. It’s amazing how people reveal their innermost secrets and devious plots to a stranger they think knows no English...but does he? Like our FACEBOOK page for a chance to

WIN FREE TICKETS to

“The Foreigner!”

June 6-28

281-208-3333

March 20-29

www.fortbendtheatre.com 2815 N. Main Stafford, TX 77477

“It’s A Game Changer!”

by Amy Sharp

T

hat’s what Sugar Land residents, Tim and Anne Lootens say! “Our new outdoor living area has changed where we spend our time. We can cook full meals outdoors, watch sports on our 60 inch TV, swim, and just enjoy family and friends! It’s also a place for our three daughters to hang out and socialize. We love that they can have a great time right in our backyard!”

Tim and Anne’s home already had a pool but it was falling apart.

Tim says, “We were in the market for bids to create our dream outdoor living space. Our kids go to St. Laurence and I was serving as treasurer for the Booster Club when an email came through from Kryshon Bratton inquiring about a Bratton Pools sponsorship sign for the St. Laurence gym. I love to support local companies, so I contacted her about bidding on my project. Her husband Michael came out. I could tell he was an honest guy and his bid was fair. So we went with them!”

In addition to ripping out the old pool and putting in a new one, Tim and Anne also wanted a full outdoor kitchen, pergola and fire pit. Tim says, “I would absolutely recommend Bratton. They do great work...but on top of the good work, Michael wants you to be 100% happy, and he will not stop until you are. He and his wife

are long term residents of our community and they’re very accessible. Michael always answers his phone. If you text, he gets back with you right away. Any big project is bound to have glitches, but they’re always on top of it. Michael’s responsiveness is a character trait I truly appreciate!”

“Tim and Anne’s project is a great example of how our process works,” says Kryshon. “When you contact us for a bid, we go out to your home, take a look at your space, and get a feel for what you want. Then we come up with 3D plans where you can really see your ideas come to life. Every pool we build is custom. We have no set designs. What I love is that through the designs, we really see the personality of our clients shine through!”

Tim says, “When we started this project, we had ideas about what we wanted construction-wise as well as ideas about how it would change our family’s social life. Working with Bratton Pools, we really feel we accomplished everything we wanted. A total game changer!”

Bratton Pools 281-988-7700 www.brattonpools.com

UPCLOSE ~ March 2015 ~ 25

GRAND WINDOWS & INTERIORS Transforming 2015 from Bland to Grand!

W

hether you’re moving into a new home or creating a 2015 update of your current one, the window fashion experts at Grand Windows & Interiors can translate your personal style and transform your space through window treatments, custom drapery, color consultation, cabinetry, upholstery, granite, tile, and more!

Ft. Bend resident, David says, “We needed the perfect designer to showcase our new 5000 square foot home with all its window features.

At Grand Windows & Interiors Caron and Joni drew up concepts and showed us fabrics and we loved their inspired ideas for our transitional style. Perhaps the best example is the window in our great room. Caron and Candelario customfabricated a dark wooden cornice with hammered metal accents to top the drapery. This was designed to match the wood, stain and style of the mantel set into the stones of our fireplace, but it’s perfect from every angle, even from the second story! Then we added cream sheers and coffee-colored linen drapery with raised embroidery and tiny embedded sparkles. It’s an elegant yet warm design, visible from the moment you step through the front door.”

“Like most couples, we spend our evenings in the master bedroom reading or watching television with our dogs. Our master bedroom sitting area has a floor-to-ceiling bay window designed

in three angled sections, so the heavy wooden curtain rods also had to make a challenging curve. We chose Hunter Douglas Roman Shades for a soft look...blackout-lined so the early light won’t wake us up! The drapery is a rich masculine shade with a subtle floral design in raised embroidery similar to the graphic design on the drapery in the Great Room. In our study Caron found window treatments that echoed details of our library shelves, complemented the piano, and harmonized with the rest of the home. No detail escaped her attention!”

“Working with Grand Windows was wonderful!

Before we even moved in, Caron walked through the home during construction to examine the design features, granite and wood, measure the windows, and start the design process. We chose ‘Ruffled Clam’ as a foundation color in many of the downstairs rooms. Its unique shade of brown, grey, olive, and mauve was tricky to match. Caron provided color consulting that inspired our drapery, furniture, and area rugs selections. In less than three months we were ready to entertain family for Thanksgiving and we were proud to open our home for a Christmas party to rave reviews from our friends!”

“We want to make your everyday living, extraordinary,” says Caron. “You can take your home from bland to grand in 2015...come see us for a complimentary design consultation!”

Grand Windows & Interiors 281-342-9160 1405 Avenue I, Rosenberg, TX 77471 Mon-Fri 9-3:30 or anytime by appointment grandwindows101@yahoo.com www.GrandWindows.com

LOMONTE’S Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria

Dine In • Take Out • Delivery

Let us cater your next event!

To be featured in the upcoming issue of the UpClose Dining Guide or suggest your favorite place please email Dining@UpCloseMagazine.com or call 281-235-0600.

281-232-8290 815 Plantation Drive Richmond, Texas 77469 www.lomontesrestaurant.com

Lupita’s Mexican Restaurant Deep in the heart of Tex Mex at Lupita’s Mexican Restaurant, recently named as one of Houston Chronicle’s Top 100 Restaurants in Houston.

Southeast corner of Hwy 6 & Williams Trace

281-265-6556

www.LupitasSugarland.com

Authentic Texas-Style for Three Generations 281-530-9382 • 11534 S. Wilcrest at W. Belfort, Houston, TX 77099 www.houston-bbq-catering.com

The French understand that eating is about more than food... it’s about enjoying life.

Craving crawfish? Tis the season...

We’re Back!

Voted #1 Seafood in Ft. Bend County!

Treat Yourself to Our Daily Blackboard Specials!

Aura Brasserie ~

281-238-4800 • 1410 E Highway 90A # 200, Richmond, TX 77406

aurabrasserie.com

www.pier36seafood.com

281-403-2872 15977 City Walk, Sugar Land Town Square

UPCLOSE ~ March 2015 ~ 27

40 Years of Cracks...

Raised and Levelled

by Amy Sharp

“M

y home is about 40 years old,” says Jim Simmons of Spring, “and the driveway runs about 90 ft from the street to the back of the house. Over the years, tree removal and erosion caused a lot of cracks and voids under the concrete. I had signed up for Angie’s List and decided give them a shot. Based on their reviews, I chose highly-rated Southern Concrete Raising...and I am completely happy I did!”

“I was stunned when the Southern Concrete Raising crew showed up 15 minutes early...even better than ‘on-time!’ So many contractors show up late that I hadn’t even moved my car out of the driveway yet. That kind of promptness is unheard of in this day and age! Kevin, my on-site supervisor, was extremely knowledgable and professional. He walked me through the process, showing me why my driveway was cracked and sinking and explaining how they would raise and level it. I really liked hearing the details...learning exactly Jim Simmons: where my money would be going.

"I chose highly-rated I received an estimate and the work Southern Concrete proceeded. They did exactly what Raising...and I am they said they would do and cleaned completely happy I did!” everything up perfectly. At the end I

was told the job actually went smoother than expected...so my price was $50 less than the estimate! Amazing!”

“I spoke with Rich Faust, the owner of Southern Concrete Raising, several times on the phone. He is both detail and customer oriented and very accessible. Each time I called, he either answered the phone, or got back with me very Rich Faust of Southern quickly...another characteristic Concrete Raising you just don’t see much anymore!”

Southern Concrete Raising maintains an A rating with both the BBB and Angie’s List….and with Jim! Rich says, “Our work at Jim’s house is a perfect example of why everyone should consider concrete raising over concrete replacing. It’s faster, less intrusive, more versatile, cleaner and much less expensive. Plus, we identify and fix the underlying issues instead of blindly replacing concrete that will only fail again.”

Whether your property is commercial or residential, give Southern Concrete Raising a call. They fix your sinking concrete without sinking your budget!

Why Pay To Replace Your Concrete When You Can Ra se It For A Fraction of the Cost?

Before

After

Municipal • Commercial • Residential

We Raise, Level & Stablize Sidewalks, Driveways, Patios, Pool Decks & More...

1Home 5%Floors off

713.331.0521

Email: sales@southernconcreteraising.com

southernconcreteraising.com

www.

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When You Need a Helping Hand For years Kay and her husband both worked and took care of their house and yard in Quail Valley. She says, “When my husband passed away two years ago, I felt overwhelmed and I knew I needed help. About five months ago I read an article about Professional Maid Service and Sal Lucatero’s picture was there. I called him up the next day! He was lovely and answered all my questions. It was a relief to know Professional Maid Service is bonded and insured. I told him I’d like to have the same folks come every time if possible and he assured me they could usually do that, barring an unexpected illness. Working with a company and knowing that I could call Sal at any time gave me complete peace of mind. In fact, Sal told me, ‘If your team misses something, just let me know and they’ll

come right back.’”

“Every single time I have called, Sal has answered the phone himself in just the nicest way. There’s a reminder call the day before my cleaning and my team is never late. The customer service is beyond belief...Sal’s doing things right and his prices are so reasonable. You also save money because they bring all their own cleaning supplies.”

“I love my team--Veronica, Jill, and Maria. They’re always pleasant and efficient...and so accommodating. When the ladies come they ask if there’s anything special or out of the ordinary to be done this time. Cleaning my own home from the ceiling fans to the floorboards would take me days and leave me physically exhausted. They get it done in just hours! While they clean the house, I work in the yard. After they’re done, it’s easy to maintain. The Professional Maid Service has been a blessing!”

“In my entire life I’d never had a

I WOKE UP

LIKE THIS D

o you create a first impression that’s fleeting? Whether you’re just waking up, back from a workout, or stepping out in your finest ensemble, you can make a gorgeous impression to last throughout Infinity.

Deborah Akers, a Certified Expert of Permanent Makeup here in Sugar Land, enhances Mother Nature and gives your natural beauty the staying power to bloom throughout your day.

Have you ever thought about waking up with perfect make-up? Deborah will point you in the right direction. Using a wide spectrum of colors with modern technology, Deborah can permanently apply brows, lips, eyeliner, and even desired beauty marks. One look and you’ll be convinced how natural this procedure can be!

She also offers navel piercing with a unique selection of jewelry.

Celebrate your personal triumphs and express your true beauty! Deborah has given Breast Cancer patients the opportunity to create their ideal, natural-looking areola. All procedures are performed

cleaning service...and now I wonder, ‘What was I thinking?’ Life’s too short!

Professional Maid Service has been such a positive change for me. I’ve recommended them to my next-door neighbor and I’d be happy to recommend them to anyone!”

Sal Lucatero and Max McCammond, co-owners of Professional Maid Service say, “If it can be cleaned, we can clean it. Call us for regularly scheduled cleanings or for special help for special occasions.”

Professional Maid Service 281-342-6500 www.professionalmaidservice.com

flawless

privately under the Spring Special most sanitary condiBrows or tions with the finest Eyeliner for quality equipment in an extremely relaxing $100.00 atmosphere. Supplies exp 4-15-2015 are individually packed and sterilized for each client and needles are disposed of at the end of each service.

Deborah says, “I love using my skill and talent to bring joy to each client. Seeing the nent makeup will allow you to appear renewed confidence in her eyes makes me so thankful for the ben- flawless throughout the day when you swim, shower or even cr y without efits of permanent makeup!”

Permanent make-up will allow you smudging or re-applications. Yo u’ll to, “be out the door quicker,” while look fresh and radiant...all day long! avoiding “make-up mishaps.” Do you suffer from sensitivities or allergic NEW LOCATION reactions? Never worry about which 16701 Creek Bend Dr. #100 makeup to buy and risk applying again! Sugar Land, Texas 77478 Deborah’s artistic abilities and one 281-830-7985 hundred percent waterproof perma- InfinityMakeup.com

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or

homef sale Texana Plantation Richmond, Texas $650,000

Spectacular Home sitting on a oneacre lakefront lot. Offering one of the best views in Lake Texana!

French style, fenced-in entry courtyard with Koi pond, massive interior entry, hardwood flooring, sky lighting, large gourmet Island Kitchen with a walk-in pantry, private utility room. Quaint Game/ Family Room with French doors.

Wonderful Master bedroom and bathroom retreat, solid wood interior doors with Italian solid brass hardware. Breathtaking views of the end of the lake. Gazebos, water fountains and unique environmental attractions around every corner to enjoy.

Giesla Lazar Lazar Properties

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HS Anderson Properties Giesla Lazar brings a strong, 20-year successful career in Real Estate, Marketing, Advertising and Client Service.

281-690-0842 Giesla@lazarproperties.com

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Heat,

Bringing the

Keeping

Their

T

hat’s the way one local HVAC company tackles every job to keep their customers completely comfortable. When one Missouri City mom, Kody Messer, smelled gas in her home, she called the gas company right away. She says, “They said we had a small leak in one of our upstairs furnaces. Since it was winter and our baby son sleeps upstairs, we didn’t wait at all. My husband looked online and found an HVAC company with good reviews...but our experience wasn’t good at all! Their salesman was really pushy and said the only solution was to replace the whole furnace. He didn’t give us a good explanation and he quoted $14,000! I called my brother and he recommended All Out A/C and Heating for a second opinion. Thank goodness we called All Out A/C!” “Bryan Bellamy had someone out here within an hour. I always find it a little scary to have a repairman or serviceman at the house, but the technician from All Out A/C was so nice and polite that I was completely at ease. He didn’t have the part needed to fix the furnace on hand, but he was able to get it up and running safely so we’d be comfortable overnight...and there was no extra charge! He acted like it was a pleasure to make sure we’d sleep comfortably. The next day he replaced the gas lines and the bill came out under $400. The technician from All Out A/C was really honest about what needed to be done to fix the current problem and

Cool

what precautions we needed to take year by year to maintain the furnace. We feel so confident about the way All Out A/C took the time to explain everything. I won’t ever call anyone else!”

In any comfort crisis, there’s only one number you need to know: 281-238-9292. Call All Out A/C and Heating to take advantage of a 30% discount on any new system offered... but don’t wait! This deal’s only good through March with mention of this article. “If you know your air conditioner will need replacing,” say Bryan Bellamy aka “Mr. A/C” and Chance Kamp of All Out A/C and Heating, “now is the best time of the year to do it! In addition to off-season discounts, we also have options that include 100% financing with approved credit. Make the call that will save you money and keep you comfortable...all year long!”

281-238-9292 License #TACLB8446E

www.alloutacandheating.com

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