July 2021
OUR FAMILY, CARING FOR YOURS.
20,000 Smiles and Counting!
by Amy Sharp
W
hen Dr. Srishti Mehta, owner of local Indigo Orthodontics, relocated to Fort Bend County, she had no idea how much she would love this community. Dr. Mehta says, “We moved here when my husband, Dr. Shubham Pant, accepted a clinical research opportunity at MD Anderson Cancer Center. I love the weather and the diversity. The people here are warm and welcoming, true southern hospitality.” In her 16 years of experience, Dr. Mehta has helped more than 20,000 patients with their smiles. Indigo Orthodontics is a Living Magazine “Best Orthodontist in Fort Bend County” award winner. “My aim is to give every patient a unique experience,” explains Dr. Mehta. “I design a smile for the individual. I have fun braces options for kids and unique aesthetic solutions for adults, including Invisalign and InBrace (braces that go on the inside of the teeth).” Indigo Orthodontics is a Diamond Top 1% in the nation Invisalign provider. While many offices offer Invisalign and you can even find aligners online, Dr. Mehta recommends only trusting your smile with an expert in orthodontics and aligner treatment. “It’s much like giving a crayon to a 4-year-old and a 20-year-old. While the child can use the crayon, the adult comes up with much better results.” Dr. Mehta recommends that all children have their first orthodontic checkup by age seven. “Waiting for all permanent teeth to come in is a common myth. There are some skeletal and growth issues that we can treat more efficiently and better when we catch them early. This is also an opportunity to evaluate a child’s airway and any breathing issues. We evaluate the airway, snoring, mouth breathing, and any sleep disordered breathing issues. Our 3D imaging uses minimal radiation to deliver vast amounts of information about a child’s teeth, jaws, and airway. We focus on identifying airway issues and collaborating with pediatric dentists, ENTs, and oral surgeons to promote better airway health. This results in better focus for the child to learn and grow.” Indigo Orthodontics is an all-digital practice (no impressions). It is in network with several 2 ~ UPCLOSE ~ July 2021
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insurances. “I believe a beautiful smile should be an affordable luxury. We transfer the insurance savings to our patients. Our financing options put orthodontic care in everyone’s reach.” Dr. Mehta is a Fort Bend Education Foundation board member. Her children, Anya and Shreya, attend FBISD schools. “I believe in our school district. They do amazing things for our kids!” She also gives back as much as she can by sponsoring schools, swim teams, dance teams and more. In her spare time, Dr. Mehta enjoys cooking, trying new things, and spending time with her girls. Since its inception in 2017, Indigo Orthodontics has grown from a team of three to 15. “Thank you for trusting us with your smile, your most valuable asset,” says Dr. Mehta. “I’m very blessed to live and practice in this community!” Indigo Orthodontics 281-201-2087 7975 W. Grand Parkway S., Suite #130 Richmond, TX 77407 www.indigoortho.com
Come for the FOOD but Stay for the FUN!
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by Amy Sharp
ine months ago, Cabo Dogs Lounge and Grill opened in the midst of the pandemic. Co-founder Heather Pratt says, “It’s been a crazy year. We are super happy to now be open 100%, and the masks are going away. We invite everyone to come out and enjoy what Cabo Dogs has to offer!” This very chill, full-service restaurant and bar has an amazing menu. “Our food is a fusion of BajaMediterranean (Cabo’s best!) and Tex-Mex,” explains Heather. “Our most popular dish is our Taco Trio: a Shrimp Governor taco (shrimp chorizo), a Head over Heels taco (barbacoa beef), and a Pork Carnitas taco (Michoacan, Mexican shredded pork topped with all the good stuff). Our regulars also love the Cortez burger: a minced onion infused all-beef burger with pepper jack cheese, pico, avocado, bacon, and Cabo sauce. We’ve brought back the original Sweet Mesquite buns in both onion and jalapeño cheddar for all of our burgers. I know so many of us have fond memories of that bread!” The Cabo Dogs kids menu includes grilled cheese, chicken tenders, and other kid staples. On Sundays, brunch favorites like Surf & Turf Grits and Churro French Toast are added to this already fabulous menu. Drinks at the Cabo Dogs bar are always made fresh...never from a mix. When you order a margarita, it’s made completely from scratch with fresh lime juice. If you’re wanting to get away from it all, order any Cabo Dogs mixologist-designed drink. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported straight to Cabo! Craft beers and wine are also available. The entertainment at Cabo Dogs includes something for everyone. Tuesday night is bingo night and Wednesday night is trivia. Winners are awarded Cabo Dogs gift cards. Karaoke happens Thursday and Saturday. Thursday is also Ladies Night—half price drinks for the ladies 6pm-midnight. Every Friday, it’s live music. Cabo Dogs features both local bands and traveling bands. “We understand any concerns about safety, and we take it seriously,” says co-founder Chris Morris. “That’s why we’ve installed UV light purification systems in both the front of the house and the back of the house. This system removes 99.1% of airborne pathogens, including viruses. The air is sterile, and it smells good.” “We know people are ready to get out,” adds Heather. “We wanted to create a place where you can chill. We welcome dogs on the patio, and kids inside and out. We look forward to meeting all of you!”
Cabo Dogs Brisket Cook Off
July 17, 2021 11am - 9pm In-house deejay Mark Waedemon will be spinning tunes and hosting karaoke. This party in the parking lot will include street games and a dunk tank where you can “dunk” Missouri City city council members. Proceeds from the cook off will benefit the Moseley boys. Rules to be announced later. To inquire about entering a team, call Cabo Dogs or stop in anytime.
Bring the kids. Bring the dog. Check out the food. Cabo Dogs Lounge and Grill 832-271-6900 7022 Hwy 6 S. Ste. 100 Missouri City, TX 77459 www.cabodogs.com
UPCLOSE ~ July 2021 ~ 3
Fading Away Spider Veins by Amy Sharp
T
hirty-two-year-old McCall Crihfield first saw a dermatologist about the spider veins in her legs. “I had wanted to do something about them for years,” says McCall. “They weren’t painful, but I was very self-conscious. The dermatologist referred me to Dr. Ulises Baltazar. She promised me that he was wonderful!” 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. “As soon as I walked in,” continues McCall, “Dr. Baltazar said, ‘Yes, we can take care of that. No problem.’ He made me feel good about my choice to do a cosmetic procedure. I was very confident in my decision.” Dr. Baltazar recommended a four-part sclerotherapy treatment plan for McCall. Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive and effective treatment that involves injecting a solution directly into the vein. The sclerotherapy solution causes the vein to scar, forcing blood to reroute through healthier veins. The collapsed vein is then reabsorbed into the local tissue and eventually fades. McCall says, “I just visited Dr. Baltazar for my followup after my sclerotherapy treatments. He showed me before and after pictures of my legs. I’m so pleased! It’s a huge difference, and Dr. Baltazar says it’s going to get even better. I’ve always wanted to do this, and I just didn’t know how to go about
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) 4 ~ UPCLOSE ~ July 2021
doing it. Now I can be proud of my legs, just in time for summer. Perfect timing because we’ll be spending a week right on the beach!” “Dr. Baltazar goes out of his way to make you comfortable. He’s so nice and personable. You can tell he enjoys what he does. He’s also very supportive. I’m a teacher, and he is really complimentary of our profession. He respects what I do. His nurse and his office staff also go out of their way to make you feel comfortable. Everyone is so caring...I can’t say enough good things! I 100% recommend Dr. Baltazar.”
Top Price For
YOUR Car by Amy Sharp
H
ave you tried to buy a vehicle lately? You may have discovered inventory is low, another downstream effect of COVID-19. Microchips are needed for the electronic modules that provide power for cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans. Microchips are also integral to smartphones, gaming systems, and televisions. At the onset of the pandemic, sales of home electronics surged, just as auto sales dropped. So automakers cancelled their microchip orders. The problem is: These microchips can take months to be manufactured, and there is only a limited number of highly specialized fabrication plants that make
them. To add insult to injury, one plant caught fire earlier this year, and the winter storm that swept across the United States also temporarily stunted production. The result? When auto sales rebounded at the end of 2020, there just weren’t enough microchips to satisfy demand. New car inventory came to a screeching halt. Jeff Sebastian, co-owner of local Classic Chevy Sugar Land and HWY 6 with his wife Tiffany, says, “The severe shortage of new inventory has driven up the demand for pre-owned vehicles. In turn, the value of pre-owned cars has also increased. If you have a vehicle sitting in your driveway that you no longer need, now is the time to sell it for top price.” At Classic Chevy Sugar Land and HWY 6, selling your vehicle is easier than ever. “You have lots of options,” continues Jeff. “Bring the car to one of our dealerships. We’ll evaluate it and provide you with a
Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land 13115 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-491-9000 www.classicchevysugarland.com
SUGAR LAND
no-obligation purchase price. We can also do it all virtually. Give us a call or go to our website. There you’ll find a tool where you can provide all of the information about your vehicle. We take it from there. We are currently buying all makes and models.” “Jeff and I have three kids of our own,” says Tiffany. “We know how quickly time marches on. As family dynamics change, so do your vehicle needs. If your kids are older, you may no longer need the large SUV. We can buy it at top price and help you find a vehicle that meets your current needs.” The showroom and the service department at Classic Chevy Sugar Land is open Monday-Saturday, closed Sunday. The HWY 6 location is open SundayFriday, closed Saturday. Tiffany says, “We recognize that for many of our clients, weekends are most convenient. That’s why Sugar Land is open Saturday, and on Sunday the HWY 6 location is open and available for all of your vehicle needs.”
Classic Chevrolet HWY 6 8100 HWY 6 South, Houston, TX 77083 281-201-1040 www.classicchevyhwy6.com
HWY 6
A Refreshing Remodeling Experience
by Amy Sharp
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ran and Doug first used Teri Gilberg (better weeks. Everyone was very known as the Re-Modelista) when they had energetic, passionate, a pipe burst back in February. Fran says, and conscientious about Your “We read about Teri in UpClose magazine, doing good work. Teri and and decided to give her a call. She replaced our her foreman were always sheetrock and repainted throughout. We were available. They were very happy with the work, and decided to ask Teri to good at keeping us up Specialist update our master bathroom. Our house is 21 years to date. Teri texted every old. It looked like a 90s bathroom!” evening and told us what The master bath remodel included removing the to expect the next day. We’ve wallpaper and replacing everything except the cabinets dealt with construction people and mirrors. The dark, wood-stained cabinets would be quite a bit, and have been involved in repainted a lighter color to brighten up the room. “For the design, the building process before. We knew what Fran had good ideas and pictures saved of things that we liked to expect, and there were no surprises. We on Houzz,” explains Doug. “Teri recommended that we meet with found Teri and her crew very reliable. This Louise Ostrander of local Decor on a Dime to pull it all together. was refreshing. We never worried about Louise spent time here at the house with Fran, and went with her things getting done.” to ProSource. Louise helped settle the exact colors and materials. Fran and Doug love their finished master She’s awesome.” bathroom. “We are very pleased, and we On Teri’s recommendation and to stick to the budget, Fran and do recommend Teri. Actually, we already Doug bought many of the materials for the remodel upfront at have. This was one of the best remodeling places that Teri recommended, including ProSource and build. experiences we’ve ever had!” com. Doug says, “We purchased faucets, plumbing fixtures, tile and flooring. Teri also sent us to a supplier to pick out a quartz Re-Modelista: Your Home Renovation Specialist slab for our countertop.” During construction, Fran and Doug moved out of their Specializes in Kitchen and Bath Remodels master suite into another part of the house. “We felt very safe “She Gets the Job Done!” 832-535-2501 • cell: 832-731-3191 while they worked,” says Fran. “The project took about six www.theremodelista.com
6 ~ UPCLOSE ~ July 2021
Bath &Kitchen
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Next Stop...
Heat Safety It’s Important!
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by Amy Sharp
t. Michael’s Elite Hospital CEO/CNO Jessica Rivas runs the Houston Marathon every year. “I’ve run five so far,” says Jessica. “And because the marathon is in January, training starts during the summer. I just started training for the 2022 marathon, and here we are...experiencing record heat.” “The most important thing you can do when engaging in an outdoor activity during the summer, both in the water and out of the water, is hydrate,” continues Jessica. “As you become dehydrated, you can start to experience dizziness and heat exhaustion. Lots of people think that to hydrate means to just drink water...but you need electrolytes too. Drink a Gatorade or a Powerade, or if you prefer you can add an electrolyte supplement to your water.” Whether you’re out exercising or just hanging out, Jessica reminds you to be aware of the heat and humidity. “Make sure your body stays cool. I often put a cool rag behind my neck or under my arms. I also recommend running and exercising early in the morning or late in the evening. It’s cooler before the sun comes up and after it goes down. If you do experience symptoms of heat exhaustion, including vomiting, nausea, or dizziness, don’t ignore it. Follow up with your primary care
doctor, urgent care, or an ER, because things could get worse. An electrolyte imbalance can cause a cardiac or neuro event to occur.” While it’s most prevalent in the summer months, heat exhaustion can happen at any time. “Always listen to your body,” says Jessica. “During my 2nd marathon, it was really warm (in January!). At mile 18, one of the guys in front of me collapsed. You could tell he was really hot, and somewhat disoriented. Luckily, he didn’t require CPR. We flagged down a medic, and another runner called 911.” It’s also important to note that your car can be nearly 50 degrees hotter than the outside temperature on a summer day. Never leave kids or pets in the car. “I wish you all a happy summer,” adds Jessica. “But please be careful out there. This heat is no joke!” St. Michael’s Elite Hospital, treats everything from heat exhaustion, allergic reactions, and broken bones to high fevers and chest pain. Most patients are seen by a physician in less than five minutes. St. Michael’s Elite Hospital also provides inpatient hospital services in their concierge-concept hospital. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. St. Michael’s is here for you.
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
Where Smiles are Measured from Ear ...to Ear
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by Marie Page
he upcoming school year is shaping up to be more “normal” than last year. Most kids will be going back to school in person, and many parents are secretly breathing a small sigh of relief. We’re also seeing most extra-curricular activities return in full force. We know what that means! After a full day of school, it’s off to scouts, football, karate, theater…a never-ending list of after-school activities. Do your family a favor this July: Make a trip to Dr. Thomas Lomonte, D.D.S for a dental checkup before the back-to-school rush. Dr. Lomonte sees kids and adults of all ages. Dr. Lomonte says, “We’ve got a treasure box for the little ones, and often they’re more confident after they’ve seen mom, dad, or big brother go through the same thing first. We recommend you start seeing a dentist in preschool, and continue with twice-ayear cleanings throughout childhood and adulthood. This allows us to catch problems early. Your preteen or teenager is becoming more independent and may be making poor food choices. We can make those Come in pearly whites shine again, as well as help you educate as a patient your child on better choices. If you have a recent graduand leave ate, a healthy smile is a must-have before heading off to work as a friend! or college. For smiles that need extra help, our office can help
with products like Invisalign and Colgate’s Optic White Professional Take-Home Kit.” Don’t wait until the kids are back in school, and the chaos sets in. Schedule an appointment to bring your whole family for a special, backto-school visit at Dr. Lomonte’s cheerful, friendly office. “I’m now treating third generations of families. My staff and I love chatting with our patients and their children. If you’re not smiling ear to ear when you leave here, we’ve not done our job. Can’t wait to see you all soon!”
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
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COVID Relief funds are now available. Save up to $50/month on your internet! Visit Windstream.com/covid-relief to see if you qualify. Kinetic by Windstream: Limited-time, non-transferable offer for residential customers that may not be combined with other promotions. Credit restrictions may apply. Subject to availability, Windstream Terms and Conditions (windstream.com/terms), and Windstream Acceptable Use Policy (www2.windstream.net/customersupport/usersguide/accept/accept.html). Details: Must be a new Internet customer who has not received Windstream Internet service within the past 30 days. Must subscribe to select plans to qualify. After 12 months, the standard Kinetic Internet rate applies. Taxes, fees and surcharges are extra and not included in introductory or standard rate. Additional restrictions may apply. Kinetic Internet: Windstream cannot guarantee speeds or uninterrupted, error-free service. Speed availability, capabilities and provisioning vary depending on network and terrain conditions, Internet, website, or network congestion, and customer geographical location. Windstream makes no representations related to download or upload speeds. Windstream assumes no responsibility or liability for interruption of services or service performance differences actual and advertised performance. In select areas, includes Internet transport, Internet access, and unlimited incoming calls. Outbound calls, except for toll free and 911, will be charged at 10 cents/minute. Operator Service and 411 will be charged at tariffed rates. No features or long-distance carrier rates allowed. Internet Speed: Monthly fees may apply. Speeds 25 Mbps and above may be provisioned in a range including a minimum and maximum speed. Windstream will provision customer’s location for the fastest speed available within the available range, at the time of order but cannot guarantee speed or uninterrupted, error-free service. Equipment: Monthly equipment fees may apply. Windstream-provided modems will be capable of in-home wireless networking, but devices supported by in-home wireless networking connections may experience speeds not equal to advertised speeds or the speed referenced in your Internet plan. With wireless networking, actual throughput speed may be impacted by several factors including interference from other equipment or devices at the location, distance from the modem, modem location, types of devices connected, physical obstructions, and time of day. To obtain advertised speed, connecting a device directly to the modem to provide a wired connection is recommended. Modem equipment must be returned upon termination, and if not, Windstream reserves the right to charge for the modem or a $100 fee. Installation/Activation: Activation charge may apply. Plans with speeds 25 Mbps and higher may qualify for free professional installation. Plans with speeds less than 25 Mbps may incur a fee for professional installation. Money-Back Guarantee: If customer cancels new Internet service within 30 days after start of service, all service charges and any modem equipment and install charges, if applicable, related to Internet services only, will be refunded. Modem equipment must be returned upon termination and if not, Windstream reserves the right to charge for the modem or a $100 fee. Emergency Broadband Benefit: To be eligible, customers must meet one of the following criteria: qualifies for the Lifeline program; receives benefits under the free and reduced-price school meal program; received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year; experienced substantial loss of income since February 29, 2020 and the household had a total income below $99,000 for single filers and $198,000 for joint filers during the year of 2020. Kinetic by Windstream is not responsible for program eligibility decisions and cannot make any guarantees of eligibility. For more information, including steps to qualify, visit Windstream.com/Covid-Relief. © 2021 Windstream Intellectual Property Services, LLC. All rights reserved. Kinetic and Windstream are registered service marks or trademarks of Windstream Intellectual Property Services, LLC. All other marks are the property of their respective owners. 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 030164COKSugarLandNonGigJUNE7875x5.indd 1 5/26/2021 8:24:07 PM responsible for content of these editorials or advertisements. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.
A KW Southwest Experience
Avni and Amish Patel’s Story
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by Amy Sharp
eventeen years ago, Keller Williams Southwest (KWSW) 17 years. Sapana knew all the ins and outs, and she worked with agent Sapana Patel was Avni and Amish Patel’s wedding our time difference of eight hours. She found us a townhouse in planner. Avni says, “Sapana is genuine. As our wedding Sweetwater Court. It was exactly what we needed...small and near planner, she was not a salesperson. She was out to do what our extended family. ” was best for us, and to get us the best deal.” “Sapana goes above and beyond the call of duty,” continues Fast forward to today, and Avni and Amish are living Avni. “When we wanted to remodel the upstairs of the abroad. “We still had our home in Telfair,” explains Avni. townhome while still overseas, she offered to help us “You can’t just leave a big house empty, so my parents find someone. Her contacts are invaluable. She knows were helping us take care of it. It was getting difficult people in air conditioning, roofing...anything you need! for my parents to manage. We needed to downsize to A pipe burst in our Telfiar home during the freeze. something we could just lock and go. We contacted Sapana worked it out with our buyers, and she Sapana to help us find something smaller, and to sent someone to clean out the house for us. Then help us sell our Telfair home.” before our arrival at our new townhome, she sent “We described to Sapana exactly what we wanted a cleaning lady to clean it for us. Sapana is nice, in our new home. We even made her go to kind, sweet, and aggressive all at the same time. Midtown to look at places. But Sapana knew what She gets it all done! I wouldn’t trust the buying was right for our family. She’s like the oracle. She and selling of my home to anyone else. Sapana’s KW Agent knows the market and every home in this area a real go-getter, and I have genuine respect for Sapana Patel better than anyone. We had not lived here in her. She knows what she’s doing!”
281-265-0000 • 1650 Highway 6, Ste 350 • Sugar Land, TX 77478 Your local destination for your real estate needs. KWSW.com is home to more than 500 agents whose mission is serving their clients and charitable organizations “giving where we live.” KWSW.com provides comprehensive school, master planned communities, and neighborhood information on homes for sale in our hometown.
www.upclosemagazine.com
UPCLOSE ~ July 2021 ~ 9
F CUS
Pain Relief
by Marie Page
Don’t Get Addicted!
D
r. Lance Campbell, Pharm.D, R.Ph, founder of local Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy, says, “Pain makes it hard to focus. It destroys your mood, and it impacts your entire life. But many people are afraid of taking medication. I know my patients need safe and effective treatments for pain. Here at Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy, we can compound a cream for your individual situation. This means we can deliver pain relief to the specific area where you need it most...without nausea, mental impairment, or social stigma.” “Driving and pain medications are a dangerous combination,” continues Dr. Campbell. “But we all lead busy lives, and sometimes much of it is driving. I’m a dad of four, I know how often most of you are driving to work...and then to football practice, dance class, theater, and more. These compounded creams treat your pain without the risk of drowsiness or addiction. It’s safer for you and your family.”
Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy works with your primary care doctor, orthopedist, or other specialist to tailor your medicine to your specific pain, whether it’s nerve pain, inflammation, throbbing, or chronic pain. They can compound your medication with muscle relaxants, pain relief, or anti-inflammatories in the perfect combination. These pain-relief creams are almost 100% covered by insurance. For your convenience, Campbell’s Compounding offers auto-refills and free shipping. You won’t have to worry about running out of your medicine, or running out to get it! “I became a compounding pharmacist because I wanted to find solutions that really help people,” explains Dr. Campbell. “These compounded, pain-relieving creams are among the most patient-specific forms of treatment we do. There’s no need to live in pain. Schedule a consult with us today!” 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
Let US make YOUR home
SPARKLE
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everywhere! Call for your Termite Inspection Today!
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281-777-1526 www.MahoneysHouseCleaningServices.com 10 ~ UPCLOSE ~ July 2021
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BUGCO Pest Control 281-240-2157 www.bugco.org 9720 Harlem Road #B3 Richmond, TX 77407
by Amy Sharp
Energy Efficiency and Indoor Air Quality
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he world has changed a lot over the past 18 months. Telehealth is now common, and the ability to work from home has expanded to many industries. We also got a lesson in just how crippling a brutal winter storm can be to our area. And we’ve learned a very important fact about our A/C systems: We need them to do more than just heat and cool. Brian Jackson, owner of local Jackson Air and Heat, says, “Let’s start with energy efficiency. We’ve now seen ERCOT (Electric Reliability Council of Texas) declare a state of emergency earlier this year, and in June we were asked to conserve energy during the heatwave. You probably know this, but older A/C systems are energy hogs. Here at Jackson Air and Heat, we are a Trane Comfort Specialist. Many of the Trane variable speed systems, including the Trane TruComfort XV20i, are very energy efficient. They can drive down your energy consumption (and cost) by as much as 60%, an average savings of more than $500 a year. Not only is this cost-effective for your family...but as we put more energy-efficient systems online, maybe we’ll see a decrease in the times we are asked to conserve energy!”
As a whole, we are also more aware than ever of airborne pathogens. Cleaner air can limit our exposure to certain viruses and asthma and allergy-causing particles. Your A/C system can be enhanced to clean the air by installing an Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) product. Brian says, “Available IAQ products include ultra violet (UV) lights, media filters, Air Scrubbers, and the Trane CleanEffects whole house filtration system. These products remove allergens, dust, and viruses...making the air in your home cleaner, healthier, and easier to breathe.” Both Trane and Jackson Air and Heat recommend installing the IAQ products with a Trane XV variable speed system. “By pairing the two,” explains Brian, “you are capitalizing on the best of both. Trane variable speed systems are energy efficient. They do not start and stop at full speed. Instead, the variable speed compressor knows exactly when to vary the operating speed as the outdoor temperature changes. Since these systems run longer at a lower speed, they spend more time cleaning the air in your home when paired with an IAQ product. That’s a win-win!” Customers can save even more by taking advantage of Trane’s current offer of 0% financing or instant rebates, and Centerpoint also has
rebates currently available. Jackson Air and Heat is the oldest independent Trane dealer in Sugar Land. For nearly 40 years, they’ve stayed on top of the ever-evolving world of air conditioning. In today’s world, energy efficiency and indoor air quality are important. Brian says, “We’re always available to answer questions about energy efficiency, indoor air quality, or just air conditioning in general. Feel free to give us a call anytime!”
Jackson Air and Heat, Inc. Sugar Land’s Oldest Independent Trane Dealer License #TACLB29585 281-240-1037
www.LicenseToChill.us
Close To Perfection
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by Amy Sharp
ir Force veteran and current educator Dana Rhodes had a pipe burst during the February winter freeze. “Luckily, I was here,” says Dana. “I was able to catch much of the water in buckets. But the carpet, baseboards, and the bottom of my sheetrock were ruined.” “My initial plan was to coordinate the repair work myself,” continues Dana. “A few years ago, a dear friend had recommended Lone Star Floors. My mom and I stopped into their showroom to look at flooring. Ziad Mukhaimer helped us, and we got an estimate for a tile that looks like wood. I then found a sheetrock person, but it didn’t work out due to some concerns that I had. After a few other struggles, I decided I wasn’t up to searching for different contractors. I remembered that Lone Star Floors had done complete remodels for my friend, so I went back to Ziad and asked him to do everything!” Ultimately, Dana replaced everything in her home except the kitchen and bathroom
showers. “My house was built in 1976. It was time. I bought new vanities for the bathrooms, and Ziad had a plumber put them in. Luis did the sheetrock, and Carlos did the painting. He is meticulous and does a phenomenal job cutting in. My small brick mantel had one broken brick. I asked Ziad if he could pull it out and replace it...it always bothered me when I decorated for Christmas. He said, ‘No,’ but he could build a bigger wooden mantle over it. His woodworking guy Jorge did a fabulous job. I cannot wait to decorate next Christmas!” “While the experience was far from pleasant, I am very blessed by all that transpired. I wouldn’t have an almost brand new home without the winter event. I am thankful for the silver lining! I highly recommend Lone Star Floors. Ziad gets things as close to perfection as possible. He’s absolutely wonderful. For every future project, I will be using Ziad and Lone Star Floors...no question!”
Lone Star Floors was opened more than 30 years ago by Ziad and his cousins, Mohamed Naser and Imad Mansour. Visit a showroom today to see the possibilities in both highquality flooring and kitchen and bath remodeling!
Lone Star Floors • 3 Locations • www.lonestarfloors.com Sugar Land: 281-564-1345 10009 Highway 6 South Sugar Land, TX
Katy: 281-398-2319 873 South Mason Rd. #300 Katy, TX
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
Helping Clients Understand Insurance in Their Native Language
by Amy Sharp
en years ago, Jojo Peebles started working with an independent insurance broker, providing health, life, auto, and home policies. Jojo says, “This is a consistent and growing business. I liked it so much, I became licensed as a broker/agent and opened my own business. Then four years ago, I joined forces
with Andrew Cheng at Clutch City Insurance.” Jojo speaks multiple languages, including Thai, Lao, English, and a little Japanese. “I was not born here,” explains Jojo, “so I had to adapt to the system. For most people, it’s easier to talk in their native language, especially when talking about something as complicated as insurance. People come to me because I truly care about them. I want them to feel comfortable, and I want to make insurance easy to understand. My job is to be here to assist, to help. I walk my clients through the system, and I always tell them to call me first...not the insurance company. I will make sure things go in the right direction.” Why did Jojo join Clutch City Insurance? “Andrew has been doing this for 13 years,” says
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Jojo. “I would see his card in many doctor’s offices. Doctors were marketing for him... people really like Andrew! I started working with Andrew when Clutch City Insurance was really small, just one or two agents. I enjoy it because everyone is supportive and nice, and Andrew is very active and knowledgeable. He pushes agents to be successful.” Medicare, individual health, small group health, life, long-term care, and annuity policies are all in Jojo’s wheelhouse, and consultations are always free of charge. “If you have any questions at all,” says Jojo, “just give me a call or send me a text or email. I’m always happy to help!” Clutch City Insurance Jojo Peebles 281-908-4050 jojo@jojoinsurance.com
Service Once,
by Amy Sharp
Customer For Life! W
hen Master Plumber Alan Burkhalter launched Alan’s Plumbing, he knew customer service was the key to a successful business. Today, more than 25 years later, Alan’s three sons all work for the company, and customer service remains the most important aspect of the family business. Alan’s son and Master Plumber Luke Burkhalter says, “My brothers and I grew up in this business. We started riding the truck with dad and Uncle Chris (also a Master Plumber) when we were eight or nine. We learned that business is earned the old-fashioned way... with a handshake, honesty, great manners, and giving the best price for the work being done.” Outstanding customer service starts the minute you call Alan’s Plumbing. It’s often Alan’s wife Jennifer or Luke’s wife Chelsea that picks up the phone ready to help. Jennifer says, “We do not mind answering questions at all. If you are unsure if it’s a plumbing issue
or not, we can help. I often have people send me photos of what they’re describing so that I can better assist them. If your situation does require that we send out a plumber, we get one to you as soon as we can.” This isn’t one of those “who-knows-whoowns-it” companies that’ll send some stranger to your house. The person that comes out to your home is either a Burkhalter or as close to being a blood Burkhalter as one can get. In addition to Master Plumbers Alan, Luke, and Chris, this team includes Jennifer and Alan’s son Beau (journeyman-licensed and studying for his master plumber license) and their son Jake (an apprentice close to his journeyman license). The crew is complete with the addition of journeyman-licensed plumbers Jeff Johnson and Jaime and tradesman-licensed Trevor. Jeff happens to be married to Katie, a childhood neighbor of the Burkhalter boys. Today, Katie also helps Jennifer and Chelsea answer the Alan’s Plumbing phones.
Luke says, “As a family-owned and operated company, we keep our overhead low and pass those savings on to you. Just as important...we are licensed to do work in the state of Texas, and we ONLY work in Fort Bend. Ever since the February freeze, plumbers are busy. Please make sure you have someone working in your home that is licensed in Texas and can be trusted.” Alan’s Plumbing: They don’t just say they deliver excellent customer service. They deliver. “Our family would love the opportunity to earn your trust. Please give us a call for any and all plumbing issues.”
Alan’s Plumbing
281-261-1064 License M-18995
WWW.ALANS.PLUMBING
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Is Your A/C Cranked Up All The Way To
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Bankruptcy? Bankruptcy ?
by Amy Sharp
uring intense heat waves, A/C saves lives. While it’s true that most of us can’t live without it during the summer months, cool air is a modern luxury. As recently as the 1960s, only 12% of Americans had some kind of A/C in their homes. While heat was an absolute necessity for people to live in cold climates, air conditioning is more of a newcomer on the climate-controlled front. But A/C can also be expensive. If you have an older system or a poorly maintained system, you might literally be throwing money out the window. Bryan Bellamy, owner of local All Cool A/C & Heating, says, “Newer systems that are properly installed are both energy efficient and provide humidity control. Many (if not most!) older systems are single-stage systems. What this means is...a 4-ton system turns on at 4 tons every time the A/C kicks on. The problem is: Homes in this area really do not need full capacity for about 75% of the cooling hours in a year. Here at All Cool A/C & Heating, we recommendbytwo-stage or variable Amy Sharp
speed systems. These systems gauge the outside temperature, and only run at the capacity required to cool your home at that moment. For most of the year, these systems do not run at full capacity….and that translates into money that stays in your pocket.” The selection of your new system is just the start of maximizing energy efficiency when you choose to install with All Cool A/C & Heating. “We can also zone your home,” explains Bryan. “With zoning, you no longer have to pay to heat or cool areas of your home that are rarely used. I also recommend a programmable thermostat. According to the Department of Energy, a programmable thermostat can reduce your heating costs by up to 35% and cooling costs by up to 25%.” Bryan has worked in air conditioning for more than 40 years. His family business is built on honesty, dependability, respect, gratitude, and a tremendous work ethic. “We’re here to help you save money,” says Bryan. “Please enjoy your summer, and stay cool!”
All Cool A/C & Heating (281) ALL-COOL or 281-238-9292 www.allcoolac.com TACLA8300E
DENTAL Health: Pro Tips for Parents
Smile For The Judges!
by Amy Sharp
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even years ago, Chris Dingrando took custody of her grandchildren, Seth and Brianna. Chris says, “Their dental work had been neglected, and their teeth were in very bad shape. I wanted to get that fixed. I found Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental in a quick internet search of pediatric dentists near my home. I’m so grateful and lucky to have found Dr. Faisal Khan.” “The moment we walked in,” continues Chris, “we found the office very friendly and inviting. It’s a beautiful ‘Under the Sea’ theme...not stark white walls with pictures of flowers. My grandchildren immediately felt at ease. There’s a little theater and video games so kids can chill before they go back, although it’s very rare that we have to wait more than a few minutes. When Seth and Brianna saw the surfboard examination beds with TVs, they forgot
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why they were there.” “Dr. Khan is very kind and pleasant. He knows me by name, comes out and shakes my hand, and wants to know how my day is going. When dental work is needed, he’s forthright. Nothing is sugar coated. When Seth needed to see a specialist for a complicated root canal, Dr. Khan helped us get there, and made sure we had what was needed. I’ve never seen him not be friendly. Brianna required sedation when she was very young. Dr. Khan administered the sedative himself, and talked her through it. Kids come out of this place happy, and that’s usually hard to say when walking out of a dentist office! He takes care of his patients, their families, and his staff. His front office crew has been with him for as long as I can remember.” Today, Seth is 17 and Brianna is 12. Brianna is a competitive roller skater, and one of the requirements is she must smile for the judges. “It’s important that Brianna’s teeth are in good condition,” says Chris. “Dr. Khan makes that happen for her. Her smile is something she does not have to worry about when she’s skating. Dr. Khan always goes above and beyond. I consider him a 10-star dentist!”
Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental Dr. Faisal M. Khan, DDS 832-246-7255 7910 W. Grand Parkway S., Suite 100 Richmond, TX 77406 www.grandparkwaypediatricdental.com
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HEALTH MATTERS WITH DRS. STEVE HARRIS AND ZACK BRAZZELL, DOCTORS OF CHIROPRACTIC WHERE PAIN RELIEF COMES NATURALLY
A LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCE
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by Amy Sharp
lnora Conley is a nurse. Back in 2016, she was visiting a client in the country. There were holes in the floor of the trailer, and Elnora fell through to her neck. “I hit my left side, and it affected my shoulder, knee, and foot. I’ve had back pain and left knee problems ever since. My doctor did knee injections, and I was on a lot of pain meds...which I stopped taking because I knew I didn’t want to take them forever. I love to walk, but walking became difficult, even with the injections. I could not complete a block without severe back pain. I did not want surgery. I read about a patient that Sugar Land Health Center helped back in April, and I decided to give them a try. It was the best decision I have ever made!” Sugar Land Health Center was opened by Dr. Steve Harris in 1982. In the summer of 2019, he welcomed his son-in-law, Dr. Zack Brazzell, to the practice. They offer a wide variety of chiropractic care modalities and associated therapies to help people with pain find relief and improve their overall health. Through his 40 plus years as a chiropractor, Dr. Harris has developed his own methods and treatments for every layer of the body to promote healing. “From the first time I stepped in the office,” continues Elnora, “I had such a great feeling. Dr. Harris did x-rays, and explained my treatment plan using both my x-rays and a skeleton chart. It was very detailed, and he was so patient. He also shared the results of other patients. As a nurse, I appreciated it. He took so much time, I felt like I was his only patient that day.” “After my first chiropractic adjustment, I had tears in my eyes because my back pain was so much better. I knew I had found a place where I could get some relief. When I started at Sugar Land Health Center, my left knee was very inflamed and red. After pressure wave therapy treatments with Dr. Brazzell, the redness is gone, and the size has decreased. These are just great doctors. At one of my appointments, I had a headache. I’m not sure what Dr. Harris did, but my headache disappeared. I cried!” Today, Elnora can walk two miles. She can go up and down stairs, which was very difficult before. “Sugar Land Health Center has been life-changing for me. I recommend Drs. Harris and Brazzell, and
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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I will continue to do so. Liz, Jessica, and Sophie that work in the office are also tremendous people. They exude love for their patients. I tell everyone I see...this is a great environment!”
New Patient Special
COMPLIMENTARY Exam & Consultation
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(. .$125 . . . . .VALUE . . . . . . . .) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . If you live in pain, we are here to help.
281-980-1050 - Does not apply to Medicare or Personal Injury. - X-rays at regular charge. - 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 ~ July 2021 ~ 15
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