2022-12 UpClose Sugar Land Magazine

Toys for All Family and

This December, the family at Classic Chevy Sugar Land and HWY 6 is once again joining forces with Houston Astros pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. to sponsor the fifth annual Toys For All toy drive to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Houston and other area children and organizations.

Local Classic Chevy owners Jeff and Tiffany Sebastian say, “This is a fantastic event where big brothers and sisters are invited to bring their littles for a fun-filled evening that includes hot cocoa, cookies, and music. Santa Claus and his elves will be making a special appearance. Each little brother and sister will have their photo taken with Santa and receive a toy.”

This year, more kids than ever are expected to attend this amazing event.

Now accepting new, unwrapped toy donations for children ages 1 to 18 at Classic Chevy Sugar Land, Classic Chevy HWY 6, and Carbingo. These toys will brighten up the holidays for the incredible kids at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Houston!

Presented by Classic Chevy Sugar Land, Classic Chevy HWY 6, and Houston Astros pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. Toys for All benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters of Houston and other area children and organizations.

“Join us!” continues Jeff. “We are accepting new, unwrapped toy donations for children ages 1 to 18 to be handed out at the Toys for All event. Donations can be dropped off at Classic Chevy Sugar Land, Classic Chevy HWY 6, and Carbingo. In past years, we’ve noticed the kids really love Nerf guns, footballs, basketballs, soccer balls, and baby dolls. It’s a wonderful way for you and your family to make a difference this holiday season.”

“Jeff and I love that once again we have the opportunity to spread holiday cheer through the Toys for All event,” says Tiffany. “We could not do any of this without the support of the fantastic people of Fort Bend. A big thank you to all of our community partners for once again ensuring this event is a huge success. Happy Holidays!”

by Amy Sharp

Tiffany and Jeff Sebastian, Owners of Classic Chevrolet, with Astros pitcher Lance McCullers Jr.

by Amy Sharp

Cody Bellamy of local All Cool A/C & Heating explains, “Effective January 1st, the federal government is mandating that air conditioning manufacturers change their equipment efficiency testing procedures to meet a new minimum efficiency. The efficiency rating will be called SEER2 instead of SEER. The result? Larger, more powerful (and more expensive!) machines.”

The victim in this mandate is the ever-popular 14 SEER system. Cody says, “For quite some time, the 14 SEER has been the basic standard solution that fits our climate here in Fort Bend County. It’s superbly reliable, efficient, quiet, and easy to work on. We’ve installed many, many 14 SEER systems in recent years with lots and lots of satisfied customers. Beginning January 1st, all air conditioning equipment sold must be a SEER2 match up. We cannot legally sell the 14 SEER after this date. The implication with the new mandate is that the SEER2 equipment will save you even more money. Here’s a little secret: With heating and cooling equipment, the installation expertise is what makes the thing save you money, not the so-called rating. I can get in a car that’s ‘rated’ at 30 miles a gallon. But if I put rocks in the trunk and drive like I’m a stock car racer, it’ll struggle to get 10 miles to the gallon. Same thing here!”

Will the new SEER2 rated systems cost more than the current 14 SEER? “You bet!” says Cody. “It will cost significantly more. If you’ve been putting off purchasing a new system, now is the time. This month (December 2022) is the final month you can legally get the less costly 14 SEER installed in your home. When January hits, you’ll be forced into the new, higher-rated SEER2 systems and the new, higher pricing.”

The good news? Since the 14 SEER is being phased out, this month you can get the best value ever on these incredible systems. Cody says, “There’s no risk. The parts and labor warranty on the 14 SEER is 10 years. The parts will be available for the life of the system, and our service techs know the 14 SEER inside and out. We’re also offering a full $750 trade-in for your old system (no matter how old) and one year of free comfort and performance maintenance. You’ll save big, and I promise, you’ll be happy.”

All Cool A/C & Heating was founded back in 1989 by Cody’s dad, Bryan Bellamy. More than 30 years later, All Cool continues to enjoy a reputation as Fort Bend’s honest and dependable family-owned and operated A/C company where father and son work side by side.

Bryan says, “If you’ve been on the fence about a new system, don’t wait any longer. You only

have until December 31, 2022 to get the affordable 14 SEER system installed, and supplies are already running low. Act now!”

All Cool A/C & Heating (281) ALL-COOL or 281-238-9292 www.allcoolac.com TACLA8300E

“New

are expected to rise 20% to 30% in 2023.”

Bryan Bellamy

I’ll Be Around

by Amy Sharp

“We know that most often, when you need a plumber, you need help right away,” says founder of local Alan’s Plumbing, Master Plumber Alan Burkhalter. “That’s why from the moment you call, you’ll always be our priority. When we come out to your home, we never forget that you’re also a neighbor. For this reason, we remain committed to providing expert, licensed service at a fair price.”

Alan was raised on hard work and honesty. His grandfather was an iron worker on the San Jacinto Monument back in 1936. Alan says, “My grandfather believed in core values and integrity, and he passed these ideals on to us. For the past three decades, I’ve worked with my brother Chris (also a Master Plumber) on pipes and plumbing. Today, my three sons have joined our ranks. Luke is a Master Plumber, Beau is journeymanlicensed and studying for his master plumber license, and Jake is an appren tice close to his journeyman license. Some things just stand the test of time. Here at Alan’s Plumbing, hard work is

all in the family.” Journeyman-licensed plumbers Jeff Johnson and Jaime, and tradesman-licensed Trevor complete this local, plumbing team.

“We are where we are today because of the relationships built by my dad,” explains Luke. “We used to ride these trucks as kids. We learned firsthand from Dad the importance of being polite, pro fessional, and prompt while providing excellent service. Today, my brothers and I are all licensed and experienced mem bers of Dad’s team. We take great pride in driving that ‘Alan’s Plumbing’ truck. We know when our neighbors see that truck, they see a company they can trust. Fort Bend is the heart of our business. We are thankful for your call!”

From dripping faucets, running toilets, and clogged drains to a worn-out water heater, outdated bathroom fixtures, and plumbing emergencies, you can depend on Alan’s for expert, affordable service.

The team at Alan’s Plumbing wish es Fort Bend a safe and happy Holiday Season. “Whenever you call us, we’ll be there.”

Holiday Plumbing Tip

When you’re cleaning up after Christmas dinner, it can be tempting to run a dishwasher cycle while you continue to clean other dishes. Unfortunately, you might be creating more work for yourself by doing so. The dishwasher and the garbage disposal typically share the same drain, so running the disposal or pouring anything into the sink can wind up pushing that waste back up into the dishwasher’s cleaning cycle. Even worse, if your drains become clogged, running the dishwasher could cause the water to back up and flood your kitchen. Wait until you’re done in the kitchen to use the dishwasher!

When life seems to get backed up, we are here to ensure that your home plumbing keeps flowing properly.

Dr. Lance Campbell, Pharm.D., R.Ph. opened Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy back in 2003 with a clear vision. “Before Campbell’s, I worked in a retail pharmacy environment,” explains Dr. Campbell. “No one knew the customers’ names or anything about their life and family. Many were waiting 45 minutes or more to get prescriptions. To me, that model was seriously flawed. That’s why at Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy, we proudly provide out standing customer service with a family feel.”

This is family service with customized medica tions. “What compounding means,” continues Dr. Campbell, “is that your medications are made based on your practitioner’s prescription. The individual

ingredients are mixed together in the exact strength and dosage form required...right here, on-site. No rounding it up or rounding it down. We can com pound prescriptions for a variety of medications in a variety of forms—creams, lozenges, and even lollipops. We can make medications without the fillers you might be trying to avoid (dyes, gluten, etc.). Many children struggle with oral suspension medications like Augmentin. We can add delicious flavors, making the medicine more palatable for children, or anyone that needs it. If you or your kids hate taking medication, don’t worry, together we can find a solution for you. We can even compound medicine for pets!”

For men and women diagnosed with a hor mone imbalance, Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy can prepare all-natural, customized bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) medications. Dr. Campbell explains, “Our progesterone, testosterone, and estrogen are all plant-based; they’re made from yams, and they mimic the molecular structure in your body. We work with your doctor to come up with the formulation, and through com pounding we control both how the medica tion is delivered to your system and its dosage. It’s truly customized medication.”

In the nearly 20 years since Dr. Campbell brought his pharmacy vision to life, not only has his business grown, his family has grown as well. Dr. Campbell and his wife Rakel have four children: Cole, Chloe, Caitlyn and Claire. “Nothing emphasizes the urgen cy to get medications quickly more than when it’s your child that needs it,” says Dr. Campbell. “My team at the pharmacy works hard so that your fam ily can feel their best. Your family’s health is our top priority.” Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy also stocks all commercially available medications, mak ing it your one-stop-shop pharmacy right here in the neighborhood. From the Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy family to yours, “Happy Holidays!”

by Amy Sharp

All In The Family

The holidays are the perfect time to gather together with those that we love and care about, expressing our gratitude and appreciation for them. Local dentist, Dr. Thomas Lomonte, DDS in Stafford, looks forward to it each year.

“My greatest joys, my kids Natalie and Matt, are both adults now,” says Dr. Lomonte. “And I love that we’ve been able to continue many of the same family holiday traditions that I grew up with. We still gather each November to share Italian food and music, drink delicious Italian wine, and take turns mixing and stuffing sausage with my family’s secret recipe. It’s such a special time for all of us.”

When Natalie and Matt reminisce on their childhood, these family traditions with their dad take centerstage, as well as their dad’s dental office. Dr. Lomonte has been practic

DEAR SUGAR LAND

I was born and raised in Sugar Land. I was a Colony Bend Pioneer (now, the Eagles), First Colony Bobcat, and Clements Ranger. My parents attended Texas A&M in the 70s, so I grew up an Aggie, though I ended up attending UT Austin. As a kid, I used to ride my bike to Randalls and then Baseball Fever to buy cards. My parents have lived in the same home off of Williams Trace since 1982. My wife and I have two daughters, Lenny and Arie, and we live in Imperial.

I’m the principal of Clutch City Insurance. We are an agency of 40 brokers, 6 of which reside here in Sugar Land. As we get older, our healthcare becomes an important part of our life. We specialize in helping seniors with understanding their Medicare options. As local reps, we are familiar with the network of doctors, hospitals, and specialists in Fort Bend County. I’m proud to raise my family in the great city of Sugar Land, where there is no better place to Protect Your Loved Ones.

ing at his same location on Murphy Road since 1982. “To say Natalie and Matt grew up in this office would be a very true statement,” explains Dr. Lomonte. “My staff shared in both the triumphs and the growing pains…and we’re all so proud of the people they’ve become!”

A graduate of Lamar University with a Doctorate in dental surgery from the University of Texas Dental Branch in Houston, Dr. Lomonte is a proud native Texan with a traditional Italian flair. Not only has his office watched his kids grow up, he’s watched his patients grow up as well. After 40 years in practice (and count ing!), today Dr. Lomonte sees second and even third generation patients. He takes great pride in the level of care he gives to each of his patients, and he’s committed to staying abreast of all of the latest advances in dentistry. Most importantly, he wants to get to know you and your family. Dr. Lomonte says, “Come in as a patient, leave as a friend. That’s always been my motto. I can’t wait to meet you!”

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

ANDREW CHENG.

by

Mary and Brian Beale’s Story

Brian Beale met Keller Williams Southwest (KWSW) agent Marta Mohan back when they lived in the same neighborhood. “Marta had signs everywhere, lots of clients,” explains Brian. “So when it was time to sell, I reached out to her. She was the nicest person…easy to talk to and not pushy. Marta wanted to know what was important to me, and she gave good advice. We also discovered that her husband Tom went to Florida like me. We’re both big Gator fans!” Mary and Brian started dating in the early 2000s. The couple quickly became friends with Marta and Tom. “Marta has the most positive outlook on life,” says Mary. “There’s not a mean bone in her body. She’s also extremely detail-oriented in her work…which is one of the reasons we work so great together. She learns what you like quickly, and doesn’t show you properties that waste your time. She’s efficient. The house we bought before this one was in Sweetwater. I had some pretty specific requests. For example, I wanted to be close to the club where people congregate. We purchased a French country home. Marta walked me through it and helped me see the potential. She said things

like, ‘Do this, and this space will be created.’ The remodel came out fabulous. That home was a huge find. After the kids moved out, Brian and I were ready to downsize. We were looking in Lake Pointe, but the three stories weren’t conducive to my knee problems and our dogs. I also specifically wanted a small yard. I had no idea this neighborhood was here, but when Marta showed us this house, we knew it was perfect. The bones were there to create our downsized happy place. We’ve finished the remodel, and we

“Marta really should be a marriage counselor,” laughs Brian. “She figures out what the seller wants, what the buyer wants, what the husband wants, and what the wife wants. To date, I’ve done ten real estate transactions with Marta: seven houses and three properties. Every time, we’ve reached a compromise. Marta gets it done. Everyone is always happy in the end…no one feels ignored. We’ve recommended Marta many, many times.”

Longtime friends, Brian and Mary have traveled the world with Marta and Tom. “They’re such a fun couple,” says Mary. “And it’s amazing to watch Marta do business. Even on vacation, she gets the job done.”

Amy Sharp

The Greater Houston Area is experiencing an unexpected surge of both RSV and flu this fall and winter. As a result, hospitals are overflowing. Emergency room wait times are longer than usual, and there may not be a hospital bed available when you need it.

If you find yourself in a situation where you or a family member requires emergency care or a hospital bed, look no further than local, family-owned St. Michael’s Elite Hospital. Founded by Dr. Shannon Orsak and his brother Brian, St. Michael’s Elite Hospital provides high-quality hospital and emergency room care in a safe and comfortable setting. CEO/CNO Jessica Rivas says, “Here, you'll find the same board-certified doctors, staffing, and equipment as any hospital. Onsite available testing includes CT scan, ultrasound, and urinalysis, as well as a full spectrum of blood tests such as complete blood count (CBC), blood glucose, and cardiac panel. What you won’t find is the wait. We guarantee a wait time of five minutes or less in our comfortable, spa-like lobby before admission to a private examination room. If you do require admittance to our hospital, you won’t wait longer than one hour for an inpatient bed. We’ve worked hard to make the process of moving

you to one of our comfortable and roomy hospital rooms as seamless and quick as possible.”

The team of board-certified emergency room physicians at St. Michael’s Elite Hospital sees patients of all ages. They specialize in diagnosing and treating emergency medical needs such as allergic reactions, broken bones, high fevers, and chest pain. They also provide a quick diagnosis and care for patients suffering from the flu or strep throat. In addition to managing health emergencies, St. Michael's Elite Hospital performs confidential testing and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), pregnancy tests, and rapid alcohol and drug testing.

Jessica says, “We are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We are the better, quicker alternative to traditional hospitals. Give us a call when you need us. Walk-ins are also always welcome.”

The team at St. Michael’s Elite Hospital wishes you all a safe and healthy holiday season.

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.”

NEW BEGINNINGS FAMILY LAW

by Amy Sharp

It’s the time of year we all have so much to be thankful for, and we’re looking forward to a new year with new beginnings. Local law firm, Bastine Law Group, is excited to announce some of its own new beginnings, expanding its reach and sharing of information.

Founder and three decades plus attorney, Ronique Bastine Robinson, will begin consulting in divorce matters. Through this service, she will help those who are seeking guidance through the process, but who may not yet be ready to file the divorce, and those who want shepherding through the process, whether that is a person representing themselves or a less experienced attorney. Ronique says, “My goal is to make the process less intimidating and daunting. I want to create a space where litigants feel they can move efficiently through an unfamiliar system with confidence, knowing they have an experienced lawyer as their guide. I also want to give young lawyers who want to do family law, but don’t have as much experience in family law, a seasoned advocate who can help them guide their clients through the maze of a family law motion practice.”

Agom Egbuna

In 30 years, Bastine Law Group has grown from Ronique being a solo practitioner to nearly 20 support staff and professionals. Most recently, the firm welcomed attorney Karen Agom Egbuna to the growing Bastine Law Group family. Ronique says, “A native Houstonian, Karen hails to us as an attorney licensed to practice in New York and newly admitted to the State Bar of Texas. Karen will handle all family law matters, including estate planning, pre and post marital agreements, divorces, child custody disputes, and modifications to existing orders.”

Bastine Law Group now has three locations, including an office in Dallas. “My ultimate goal,” explains Ronique, “is to expand the practice in order to provide more resources to persons who must navigate the family law process, helping them get back to their life and moving forward into their own new beginnings.”

The employees of Bastine Law Group and their families want to wish everyone, “Happy Holidays!”

Ronique Bastine Robinson Managing Partner

Karen

Eight Weeks Postnatal and

Her Body’s Completely Back to Normal

by Amy Sharp

After Kari Vest gave birth via C-section to her third child, she experienced lots of swelling. Kari says, “It was very difficult to walk through the pain and discomfort. I was nervous to leave the hospital. I was also discouraged. I had gained weight…and I had given birth to a 10 pound baby! I texted my friend Jenise with questions. I wanted to know if it was normal to feel this way, and why this was happening to me. I also knew Jenise’s mom had helped her get her pre-pregnancy body back through massage, and I needed details.”

Jenise’s mom is Lymphatic Drainage Massage Therapy (LDT) certified therapist and local True Recovery Lymphatic Massage owner, Delmie DePuma-Aparicio. Delmie explains, “Kari was experiencing both swelling and diastasis recti, a condition that occurs when the rectus abdominis muscles (the six-pack ab muscles) separate during pregnancy from being stretched. Lymph fluid is necessary for the body to heal, but trauma to the body (like delivering a baby) can block the lymph system. Lymphatic massage opens up the lymph nodes, allowing the lymph fluid to flow freely throughout the body. The sooner after delivery that we can start a lymphatic massage plan to help the postnatal body heal naturally, the better.”

Kari says, “Delmie did

Trim Your Trees

BEFORE Spring Hits

my first massage on the day I came home from the hospital. She also recommended I wear a compression band. After my second massage, the swelling was completely gone. I felt so much better. I had my legs and ankles back. I could walk and put on sandals. The belly area (the diastasis recti) took longer, but I stuck with the plan. Today, I’m eight weeks postnatal, and I am completely back to normal. Everything is back intact. I can put a swimsuit on!”

“Delmie is very knowledgeable,” continues Kari. “Each massage felt like a therapy session where I could ask questions. I always left feeling really good about myself. After my experience, my sister did postnatal lymphatic massage after the birth of her baby. It worked the same. She was also back to normal in just a few weeks. We absolutely recommend Delmie and True Recovery Lymphatic Massage.”

by Amy Sharp

“D

uring fall and winter, the root system of a tree grows,” explains Brandon Simpson of local Simpson’s Tree Service.

“During the spring and summer, the canopy grows. Trimming before springtime arrives ensures the tree is ready to grow towards the sun. Trees should be trimmed away from your

house and away from your neighbor’s house. Trimming also keeps your trees compliant with city rules above the street.”

A great looking tree is just one of many reasons to regularly trim your trees. Brandon explains, “Here in Fort Bend County, we experience storms with high winds nearly every year. A properly trimmed tree better allows

the wind to blow through the canopy. A thick and bushy tree does not, and is more at risk of coming down in a windstorm. Thinning out your trees also allows sunlight to pierce the canopy so that your grass grows well. Finally, you don’t want to give rodents a highway onto your roof. Branches hanging on the roof or close to the roof allow all sorts of creatures onto your roof and ultimately into the eaves and attic.”

Simpson’s Tree Service has taken care of Fort Bend County’s trees since 1997. The company is owned by Brandon’s mom, Cammy, and managed by Brandon and his brother Nicholas. “This is a family business,” says Brandon. “We feel so fortunate that we’re able to continue to work together after all these years. We only have one crew, and some of its members have been with us for 15 years. You won’t find a more experienced group of individuals that have worked together longer in the area. We have the necessary insurance and equipment, including proper safety ropes and harnesses, to handle any job…no matter how high or how heavy. Give us a call for all of your tree questions and needs. Estimates are always free!”

Simpson’s Tree Service 281.980.0095

www.SimpsonsTreeService.com

The Right People

To Get The Job Done Correctly

by Amy Sharp

Kate and her husband have lived in their home for 23 years. “Our kids had moved out, and it was time for a facelift,” says Kate. “We wanted to redo the master bathroom and do some painting downstairs. We received bids from two contractors that we put on hold. Both my husband and I were just not sure. When we asked questions about specific things, we were given answers like, ‘We’ll figure it out.’ We didn’t want to be someone’s test case! We decided to give Teri Gilberg (better known as The Re-Modelista) a call after reading about her in UpClose magazine. For everything we asked, Teri said she had a person. We felt we could talk to her, and she understood what we were doing: We wanted a facelift, but we were also on a budget. After meeting with Teri, my husband and I looked at each other, and we both said, ‘I’m with her!’”

“It’s the little extra things throughout this remodel that really impressed us,” continues Kate. “For the bathroom, I had selected a very Mediterranean tile in different patterns. The crew allowed me to lay the tile out in the garage first, so every piece went exactly where I wanted it to go. As we moved through this project, we added on. We loved the work, and we did not want to go through it all again later to finish the rest! We ultimately put in flooring throughout the downstairs and painted nearly every room. I don’t think I’ve ever met a more detailed painter. We first thought we wanted to stain the bannister. The painter consulted with Teri’s foreman Christian in Spanish. I could tell he did not think the stain would work. He suggested priming and then painting so it wouldn’t chip. It’s beautiful. We had him paint the fireplace to match. When he was up high painting a ceiling, I asked if he could replace a light bulb while he was up there. No problem. He was

so invested in completing the look and doing things right, and just so nice and helpful! It was no different with the floor. The crew was very careful to install the floating floor per the manufacturer’s instructions. My husband’s an electrical guy. He was so impressed with Teri’s electrician, he said we’ll be calling him again.”

“Teri has the right people to get the job done correctly in her pocket,” says Kate. “Teri’s price included three hours of consulting with interior designer Louise Ostrander. I had ideas on what I wanted, and Louise added to my thoughts. She also made simple, cost-effective suggestions, like replacing the door handles. Every single person Teri brought in cares and is proud of their work. The quality and attention to detail is excellent. This facelift is exactly what our home needed. We love it!”

DENTAL Health: Pro Tips for Parents

by Amy Sharp

Adecade ago, Dr. Faisal M. Khan opened a small, beach-themed dental office for children on Grand Parkway. “My goal was simple,” says Dr. Khan. “I wanted to make going to the dentist fun for every child. Because let’s face it, if it’s fun for the kids…it’s also much easier for the parents and for the dentist.”

Dr. Khan’s delightfully kid-oriented office became an instant hit with area children. Little patients couldn’t get enough of the in-office movie theater, video games, and colorfully adorned walls featuring fish, octopus, turtles, sharks, and character favorites like Ariel and Sebastian, Jake and the Neverland Pirates, and Moana. Even more than this amazing office, Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental clients fell in love with Dr. Khan’s kind and gentle demeanor.

With a need for more space, in 2021 Dr. Khan moved into a new, state-of-art facil ity featuring the same beach theme. Today, he has an oral surgeon, an anesthesi ologist, and three dentists—Dr. Khan, Dr. Priyanshi Ritwik, and Dr. Annie Zheng–on staff. Each team member has been hand selected to provide the same gentleness and kindness families have come to expect from Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental. Pediatric dentistry, laser dental procedures, minor orthodontics, and oral surgeries with admitting privileges at Texas Children’s are all in the scope of what this team can do.

As Dr. Khan’s practice has grown, so has his family. Dr. Khan and his wife Samiha Zakaria are raising their three children, Zayna, Hamza, and Eisa, right here in Fort Bend County. “I’m always learning,” explains Dr. Khan. “And having kids of my own

has taught me so much more. I understand the nervous ness kids (and sometimes parents) feel about going to a new doctor, no matter what kind. I’m always on the lookout for things that will make my office more inviting and com fortable for children. My staff and I truly enjoy getting to know you and your child. The goal for this practice remains the same as it was ten years ago: To make going to the den tist so much fun, your child will want to come back!”

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

Statue To Honor A Fort Bend County Legend

by Amy Sharp

Abronze statue of Fort Bend County legend Robert C. Brown III is being installed along Brooks Lake in the Lake Pointe Development in Sugar Land.

Bob came to Sugar Land in 1977 to become President of Sugar Land Telephone Company. He was active in the telecommunications industry until the company was acquired, serv ing during his career as both President of the Texas Telephone Association and Chairman of the United States Telephone Association. While his private sector career was impres sive, it was Bob’s philanthropy that became legend in Fort Bend County. Bob could be seen almost every Friday or Saturday night at a charity auction donating thousands of dollars back into the community. In most cases, he won the auction item only to donate it back to the charity to reauction, doubling the charitable contribution. Bob served on over 30 Fort Bend charities and associations with

one condition: They must serve Fort Bend resi dents. The Fort Bend Economic Development Council considered Bob captain of their ship.

He steered this community through turbulent times and the waters of growth for more than two decades as chairman. Bob’s philosophy was that you always support your community, spend your money where you live, and help those who are in need…especially children. He lived life to the fullest and in the service of others.

It was the Fort Bend Economic Development Council that came up with the idea and raised the funds to honor Bob with a statue on Brooks Lake. The statue will be unveiled December 9th at 9am. Bob’s daughters, Trudy Onofrey and Jody Noirot, say, “Our family is humbled by this recognition. Our dad was a wonderful man

that did amazing things. Our family called him ‘the most interesting man in the world.’ We are so proud of all his accomplishments and the kind of person he was, and we’re honored to be his daughters.”

Trudy’s husband is local Bugco Pest Control owner, John Onofrey. John says, “Bob was invested in customer service for the better portion of his life. I learned a lot from him about service to the community and how to treat customers: Do the right thing and treat everyone equally regardless of who they are. My partner Chris Millward and I instilled these same values in Bugco Pest Control when we launched the company nearly a decade ago. I truly believe it’s our commitment to customer service and customer satisfaction that’s made us successful. Thank you Bob. We’re continu ing your legacy.”

by Amy Sharp

We live in a review-driven world. Looking for a place to eat in a new city? Check the Google and Yelp reviews. It’s a phenomenon Lupe and Jaime Garcia couldn’t have imagined when they opened Lupita’s Mexican Restaurant 20 years ago.

Lupita’s Mexican Restaurant enjoys a 4.1-star rating with more than 400 reviews on Google and a 4-star rating with more than 100 reviews on Yelp. A mere five minute drive down Highway 6, the restaurant fre quently sees visitors from the Marriott at Sugar Land Town Square. Jaime says, “I always ask how they found us, and the answer is almost always they came because of the good reviews. We see businessmen and women, families in Sugar Land to visit relatives,

and a lot of the talent in town to perform at Smart Financial Centre. We make sure everyone leaves full and happy!”

The recipes at Lupita’s Mexican Restaurant are all based on cooking methods Lupe learned as a kid. All ingredients are always fresh. The salsa is made from scratch every day using roasted tomatoes. Both the corn tortillas and flour tortillas are handmade. Local favorite chile rellenos fea ture a pan-fried poblano pepper filled with picadillo or cheese, and topped with ranchero sauce and monterey cheese. Jaime says, “It’s a step-by-step process to make it right, so don’t order chile rellenos if you’re in a hurry. It takes about 20 minutes to get them perfect. Lupe’s picky, every thing we serve has to be just right.” Happy Hour runs every day at Lupita’s Mexican Restaurant, and

margaritas can be packaged to-go.

Need this fresh Tex-Mex for your next celebra tion? Lupita’s will cater your party with the best fajitas around. Jaime says, “Holiday parties, fam ily get-togethers, weddings, divorces, funerals… you name it, we’ll bring great food to you.”

“We appreciate Sugar Land and Fort Bend County,” continues Jaime. “You have supported Lupita’s Mexican Restaurant for 20 years. We love the business the great reviews bring in, but we realize the reason we’re still here is you, our local community. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”

At local Sugar Land Health Center, Dr. Steve Harris specializes in disc problems. Dr. Harris explains, “Some of the toughest cases to treat are herniated discs, degener ated discs, sciatica, disc-related peripheral neuropathy, and pain shooting down the arms and legs. For the last 20 years, I’ve utilized spinal decompression to successfully help patients with these conditions find relief. Fifteen months ago, I joined forces with Disc Centers of America…the masters of spinal decompression.”

“People would opt out of surgery if they knew about spinal decompression,” contin ues Dr. Harris. “Surgery can be so inefficient, and the success rate of spinal decompression is strong. It’s a success rate that’s backed by medical research. A study under the direction of Dr. John Leslie at the Mayo Clinic proved spinal decompression to be up to 88.9% effective for neck and back pain. Medical doc tors from Stanford and Johns Hopkins University report an 8.98 out of 10 satisfaction rating among spinal decom pression patients, and 100% of the participants would recommend spinal decompression. With over 500 published papers, Harvard Neurosurgeon Norman Shealy, MD, PhD is the most published author in the history of spinal decompression. Dr. Shealy

said, ‘Thank you to Disc Centers of America doctors for continuing my work and saving patients from unnecessary back surgeries.’”

Dr. Harris moved to the Sugar Land area 40 years ago. He opened Sugar Land Health Center in 1982. In addition to his work as a widely respected chiropractor, Dr. Harris is known for his humanitarian work in our community. He was a charter member of both the Sugar Land Rotary Club and First Colony Church of Christ. As deacon of humanitarian work at First Colony Church of Christ, Dr. Harris’s initiatives included working with residents of Four Corners to organize four clean-ups. During the cleanups, Dr. Harris was boots on the ground, working side-by-side with residents…once in the driving rain. “My philosophy is always to leave it better than I found it,” explains Dr. Harris.

In the summer of 2019, Dr. Harris’s son-in-law, Dr. Zack Brazzell, joined him at Sugar Land Health Center. Together, they offer a wide variety of chiropractic care modalities and associated therapies to help people with pain find relief and improve their overall health. Dr. Harris says, “We’re always looking for ways to improve. Our goal is to deliver the best services available to our patients. If you’re in pain, particularly neck or back pain, a call to us can change your life with relief and results. Call today!”

THERE’S A BETTER APPROACH TO CANCER CARE in Sugar Land

At Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center, we treat every aspect of your cancer. Leading oncologists work with our specialists across disciplines to minimize cancer’s effects on major organs. One comprehensive team — dedicated to your individual care — uses the latest research, treatments and technology to stop your cancer. From infusion and clinical trials to surgery and reconstruction, our innovative care is available in Sugar Land.

That’s the difference between practicing medicine and leading it. Your health and safety are our priority. We are taking every necessary precaution to keep you safe.

The Woodlands Willowbrook

B aytown Tex as Medical Center Clear Lake ECWRSS Postal Customer