UpClose Sugar Land Magazine - December 2023 by UpClose Magazine

December 2023

Magazine

FLYING

HIGH

FLYING

HIGH by Amy Sharp

n May 6, 1942, the B-17E bomber flown by Navy pilot in command, 2nd Lt. Hugh (Hughey) Wellington Millis, was lost during a routine flight over Florida. Hughey’s nephew, local developer Mark Millis, says, “The plane was routed through Miami and was never found. No damage, no downed aircraft, nothing. Uncle Hughey was a graduate of Rice University with full honors. He intended to go to law school and join the FBI when WWII happened. He then joined the Navy. Uncle Hughey was just 23 years old. Eight crew members and two passengers were lost that day. One theory is the plane may have entered the Bermuda Triangle.” A pilot and aviation enthusiast himself, this year Mark and his wife Laura relocated The Millis Group, Inc.’s corporate headquarters to Sugar Land Regional Airport, dedicating the newly renovated office space and hangar to Uncle Hughey. The Millis Group, Inc. got its humble beginnings back in 1992. Laura says, “Mark and I founded the company together and ran it out of our game room. Back then, you did not dare take kids to work or have dogs barking in the background. I remember when Mark would take an important call, I would have our daughter on my hip walking the driveway until he was finished.” An extremely unique private developer, The Millis Group, Inc. purchases raw land, develops it, and then goes vertical. “Typically, developers sell the land after putting in the streets, lakes, etc., and then a contractor goes vertical (builds houses or commercial buildings),” explains Mark. “We do both, and so much more. The Millis Group, Inc. is our flagship company, overseeing our construction company, utilities company, and home and office building companies.” The Millis Group, Inc.’s very first development was the beautiful, large-acreage community, Shiloh Lake Estates. But the side story here is even more beautiful. During the development, Mark and Laura were led to generously give the adjacent land to Grand Parkway Baptist Church, allowing them

to build their new church. “It’s what we felt in our hearts. It took seven land trades to make it happen, but we did it.” The Millis Group, Inc. companies include Bethany Homes, Inc. currently building custom-designed homes on large-acreage lots with trees and lakes in Royal Lakes Manor Section II and Greatwood Four, LLC currently building custom offices at The Offices of Greatwood. Laura says, “We are entering Phase 2 of the offices with a highly specialized and new design concept. These spaces are unique! It’s very difficult to find custom-designed office space that you can purchase for commercial use. Visit our website or give us a call to learn more about the possibilities!” The Millis Group, Inc. 281-343-1400 22 Jim Davidson Drive Sugar Land, Texas 77498 www.millisgroup.com

FAMILY TIES - the Millis clan at Uncle Huey’s Hangar, Sugar Land Airport

UPCLOSE ~ December 2023 ~ 3

Welcome Dr. Phi Phi! by Amy Sharp

ocal dentist, Dr. Thomas Lomonte, is excited to welcome Dr. Phianh Ma to his general dentistry practice. Dr. Ma is better known to her family and friends as Phi Phi. Dr. Phi Phi grew up in the Bellaire area. She has always loved art, being creative, and helping people. After getting braces in middle school, Dr. Phi Phi thought she wanted to be an orthodontist. “It seemed like a really cool job,” she smiles. In her first year of dental school at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Dr. Phi Phi decided general dentistry was a better fit for her. “It’s just more hands-on.” After graduation, she went on to attend a oneyear AEGD (Advanced Education in General Dentistry) residency in Utah. Dr. Lomonte has been Dr. Phi Phi’s dad’s dentist for more than 20 years. She says, “While I was in dental school, my Dad invited me to visit with Dr. Lomonte at his office several times. He’s a character! He sees lots of families and friends. Each time I visited, I would think, ‘This is the kind of practice I want to be in.’ Dr. Lomonte always makes you feel at home…not

F.L. Y . I

scared to go to the dentist.” As it happened, Dr. Lomonte was looking for another dentist to join his practice, and Dr. Phi Phi is the perfect fit! “She has an outstanding chairside manner,” explains Dr. Lomonte. “She’s friendly and gentle, and she makes people feel at ease. Dr. Phi Phi is trained in the pain-free aspects of modern dentistry and its new technology…something I’ve made the focus of my practice for four decades. We are both serious and passionate about what we do, while fostering a friendly and fun environment.” When she’s not working, Dr. Phi Phi enjoys cooking, traveling, and all things outdoors. At Dr. Lomonte’s office, she practices all aspects of general dentistry, and she is now accepting new patients. Dr. Lomonte says, “Dr. Phi Phi has all the skills to be a great family dentist. I can’t say enough exciting things about her. I’m eager for you all to meet her!”

Thomas M. Lomonte, D.D.S.

“Come in as a patient, leave as a friend.” 281-530-1440 12122 Murphy Rd., Stafford, TX 77477 www.drthomaslomonte.com

FASHION, LUPUS and You!!

n 2004, Monique Bossett lost her mother, Ett Bossett, to lupus. Lupus would strike again in 2016, when Monique lost her daughter, Mishon. Monique says, “I was involved with the Lupus Foundation during my mother’s illness, and was reintroduced through my daughter’s illness. I’m hosting F.L.Y. here in Fort Bend County in honor of my daughter, the strongest person I’ve ever known. Mishon was only 35 years old, and she fought this disease like a true warrior…so strong and determined. If I can do a little of what Mishon did to raise awareness and funds during her fight, it would be a gift.” Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease with no cure and few FDA treatments. It’s estimated that 2 million people live with lupus in the United States. Ninety percent are women, and 64% are women of color. The disease can take a career, can take relationships, and can take a life. Monique says, “As a community, we can help beat lupus with funds for education, research, and support for those living with this cruel disease. F.L.Y. will be held at The Millis Group, Inc.’s corporate 4 ~ UPCLOSE ~ December 2023

by Amy Sharp

headquarters, located at Sugar Land Regional Airport. Laura and Mark Millis most graciously offered their amazing hangar to host this event. This is not a sit down gala. It will be a lively, fun evening with a live auction, a fab silent auction and a few surprises. Mishon was the epitome of fashion, so of course the event has a fashion vibe. I won’t give you all the details, but be ready to come look F.L.Y. with us! Please join us on February 24th for a great time in support of the Lupus Foundation.”

F.L.Y. FASHION, LUPUS and You!! Saturday, February 24, 2024 The Millis Group, Inc. 22 Jim Davidson Drive Sugar Land, Texas 77498

Join us for lots of shenanigans and fashion in support of those battling lupus and those who’s battle has been lost. Tickets are $125. They are limited and will sell out fast. For tickets and additional information, contact Ann Marie Blacketer at AnneMarie@lupustexas.org.

lupustexas.org To advertise, 281-235-0600

13 Dealer of The Year

Years

STRAIGHT!

by Amy Sharp

or every single year they’ve been in business, Classic Elite Chevy Sugar Land has been awarded the prestigious General Motors Chevrolet “Dealer of the Year” award. This program honors 50 Chevrolet dealers from across the country–10 per region–who have gone above and beyond to provide their customers the best possible total ownership experience. That’s a mere 1% of Chevrolet dealers in the United States honored for exceptional performance. It’s the highest honor GM bestows. Classic Elite Chevy Sugar Land has now been the recipient of this award for 13 consecutive years. Locally owned by Tiffany and Jeff Sebastian, Classic Elite Chevy Sugar Land is part of the Classic Elite family of dealerships, including Classic Elite Chevy on Hwy 6 and Classic Elite Buick GMC on the Katy Freeway. Jeff says, “We have 380 to 400 employees at any given time here at Classic Elite Chevy Sugar Land. Our amazing team plays a very important role in the success of this store as we strive to provide an elite, red carpet dealer experience to every single person that walks through our doors. It’s a customer-centered philosophy that’s at the heart of everything we do. This award means so much for this team. It shows an uncompromising dedication to our customers. The Classic Elite Chevy Sugar Land team earned this award...and I’d like to thank each and every one of them. We appreciate everything, and let’s do it again next year!”

Need a new car? December is the standout month for buying, and Classic Elite is the place to go. Tiffany says, “Inventory is at an all-time high, and now is the perfect time to buy. If you have a trade-in or a car to sell, the market is strong. Your vehicle will be worth more than you think, and we are buying cars. I encourage you to visit the location that’s most convenient to your home or office for a free appraisal.” “Thank you so much for trusting us for all these years. We love our customers, and wish each of you a very happy holiday season!”

CLASSICELITE.COM Classic Elite Chevy Sugar Land 13115 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-491-9000 www.classicelitechevysugarland.com

Classic Elite Chevy 8100 HWY 6 South Houston, TX 77083 281- 201-1040 www.classicelitechevy.com

Classic Elite Buick GMC 16835 Katy Freeway Houston, TX 77094 281-579-4300 www.classicelitebuickgmc.com

UPCLOSE ~ December 2023 ~ 5

1st Dental Visit

he National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research reports that up to 42% of children between two and 11 years old have cavities in their baby teeth, and around 20% of those children with cavities do not have their cavities treated. Dr. Shilpa Chandiwal, founder of local Healthy Teeth Pediatric Dentistry, says, “Sometimes, parents simply don’t know that a child has tooth decay. Other times, parents don’t see why cavities need to be treated if the baby teeth will be lost eventually. However, baby teeth that decay and fall out too soon can affect the permanent teeth. If a tooth is lost too soon, an adult tooth might shift into the wrong place and come into the mouth where it’s not supposed to. This can create major orthodontic and dental issues for a child in the future. But these situations can be prevented by simply taking your infant in for dental exams while they are young.” At Healthy Teeth Pediatric Dentistry, cavity prevention is the #1 priority when it comes to infants and children. “This is why we offer free dental exams to children under two without insurance,” explains Dr. Shilpa. “Good oral hygiene starts off at a very early age, and the better an infant’s oral health is, the better it can be as a child and adult. Infant dental exams are fairly quick and easy for both the parents and the children. At the first few visits, infants can be in their parent’s arms while they have their mouth examined. Being in a dental office from the time they are an infant will also help your

by Amy Sharp

child become comfortable with dental visits. Trust me, it’s much easier on both you and me when your growing toddler wants to go to the dentist and doesn’t fight it.” The team of dentists at Healthy Teeth Pediatric Dentistry includes Dr. Shilpa, Dr. Cindy Hurd, Dr. Chanica Veranunt, Dr. Gail Joiner, and Dr. David Lee. Help your child excel by preventing cavities…schedule your infant’s very first dental exam today!

Healthy Teeth Pediatric Dentistry Sugar Land 167 Citadel Way, Suite 100 Sugar Land, Texas 77479 713-955-2100 Katy 5300 Ranch Point Drive, Suite #B Katy, TX 77494 713-234-1002 www.healthyteethpediatricdentistry.com

ANNUAL ENROLLMENT PERIOD OCT. 15 - DEC 7 PLANS CHANGE, SO CAN YOUR HEALTH NEEDS.

Medicare plans change each year. Don’t assume your current coverage is still your best choice. Review your current plan, costs and health needs, then see how other plan options compare.

REACH OUT TO KEREN IF YOU NEED HELP:

KEREN DELAUNE (281) 236-1321 kerendelaune@gmail.com

Understanding the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medigap. Getting access to your doctors, hospitals, and specialists. Identifying the changes in Medicare for 2024. Understanding the coverage gap or the donut hole.

HABLO ESPAÑOL

I DO NOT OFFER EVERY PLAN AVAILABLE IN YOUR AREA. ANY INFORMATION I PROVIDE IS LIMITED TO THOSE PLANS I DO OFFER IN YOUR AREA. PLEASE CONTACT MEDICARE.GOV OR 1-800-MEDICARE TO GET INFORMATION ON ALL OF YOUR OPTIONS. I DO NOT OFFER EVERY PLAN AVAILABLE IN YOUR AREA. ANY INFORMATION I PROVIDE IS LIMITED TO THOSE PLANS I DO OFFER IN YOUR AREA. PLEASE CONTACT MEDICARE.GOV OR 1-800-MEDICARE TO GET INFORMATION ON ALL OF YOUR OPTIONS. THIS IS A SOLICITATION FOR INSURANCE.THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT. NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY.

A portion of the editorial content contained in this publication is controlled and contracted by the advertisers contained herein and is part of their advertisement. UpClose Magazine is not responsible for content of these editorials or advertisements. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.

IT’S TIME TO Wrap The Pipes!

by Amy Sharp

anta Claus is coming to town, and some North Pole temperatures could be ahead of his visit. Houston has gone through freezing Christmas weather before. Back in 1989, we woke up to 20-degree weather, and pipes across the city froze. And not Christmas…but none of us will soon forget February 11-20, 2021, when a historical winter event occurred that set many records, including being the first billion-dollar weather disaster of that year. Master Plumber Alan Burkahlter, founder of local Alan’s Plumbing, says, “Now is the time to take a break from wrapping inside and start wrapping outside. This kind of wrapping will help you save money instead of cost money. The average Houston home has one

water connection point, either on your home’s left or right side. It’s these exposed, outdoor pipes that we’re most worried about. We recommend using foam, self-seal pipe insulation to cover the entire exposed pipe.” It’s also important to consider the pipes in your attic. Losing power inside your home will make these pipes vulnerable too. Alan says, “If possible, your best bet is to shut off all your water and drain it out. Without any water in the pipes, there’s almost no likelihood of pipes expanding or busting in your home. If you leave the water on, you could be playing a dangerous game.” Back in the beginning (about 30 years ago!), the Alan’s Plumbing team consisted of only Alan and his wife

Jennifer. Jennifer answered the calls, and Alan provided service for those calls. Today, Alan’s brother Chris works alongside Alan’s two oldest sons, Beau and Luke, while their youngest son, Jake, does plumbing sales in Houston. This dynamic team includes longtime plumbers Jaime, Christian, Anthony, and brothers Nick and Noah, with Jennifer running the back office and longtime family friend Katie and new team member Katy as the voices behind the phones. “Merry Christmas from all of us here at Alan’s Plumbing!” Alan’s Plumbing

281-261-1064 License M-18995 RMP Alan Burkhalter

WWW.ALANS.PLUMBING To advertise, 281-235-0600

UPCLOSE ~ December 2023 ~ 7

Smile

The Gift of A

New to the neighborhood, this solution, Gene will have the capability of removing and to day, the prosthetic himself, cleaning it at theready end of the make you smile and then inserting it back onto the implants. Not !to

mention, this semi-removable prosthetic was agreeable to Gene’s budget and financial parameters. Once Gene Dr. Ashatogether Patel, D D, FAGD gave the green light, my staff worked with him to come up with a payment strategy, there are 7963 W Gensuring rand Pkwy S, Suite A no financial delays in getting his treatment started.” Richmond, TX 774 At New Smile to Solutions, Dr. Patel places a large the (832) 449–5442 emphasis on continuing education, ensuring her neighborhood, lesolutionsrichmond.com practice stays up-to-date on smi the latest in dentistry, and ready including the latestto advancements in implants. She make you smile ! the capability and skill says, “As dentists, we have set to change a person’s life. My goal is always to Free provide my patients with the very best options and Implant Dr. Asha Pate l, D D, FAGD technology available. Gene’s treatment plan will not only tooth but IExam firmly believe it 7963restore W Grand P kwy S, Sfunction, uite A will also improve his quality of life. Stay tuned to +tX-Reyp Richmond, TX 774 UpClose Magazine this spring to see the final results (832) 449–5442 of Gene’s new look. Through implants, we’re giving smilesolutionsrichmond.com Gene the gift of a smile!” Ofer eepirees 0090290002

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THROUGH

IMPLANTS!

by Amy Sharp

ene is a veteran. He’s had a complicated and difficult dental history. While on duty, the military only offered to extract (pull) Gene’s problematic teeth versus trying to save them. As a result, Gene had multiple teeth extracted over the years. Today, Gene only has a handful of teeth remaining, and they’re severely decayed and broken down. To say the least, Gene is very embarrassed to smile or even speak widely because he doesn’t want others to see the condition of his teeth. Here’s where local Smile Solutions steps in! Founder, local dentist Dr. Asha Patel, says, “After a comprehensive oral evaluation and analysis of his radiographs, I determined that Gene would benefit the most from having his remaining teeth extracted, implants placed on the lower arch for a semi-removable prosthetic, and on the top we would fit a fully removable prosthetic. Lower arch prosthetics are notoriously known to slip out, move around, and not stay in place. They’re more cumbersome and troublesome than upper arch prosthetics. The implants will improve the function and stability of Gene’s lower arch prosthetic, anchoring it into place. With

Free Implant Exam

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El Tiempo Cantina Stafford 12710 Southwest Fwy Stafford, TX 77477 346-350-5016

WWW.ELTIEMPOCANTINA.COM 8 ~ UPCLOSE ~ December 2023

To advertise, 281-235-0600

Next Stop...

It’s What Human Beings

Deserve

“I

t’s truly a blessing that here at St. Michael’s Elite Hospital we can spend time with our patients,” says St. Michael’s Elite Hospital CEO, Diane Hutchings MS, RN, FAACM, CCM. “We can listen to their stories, sit with them, and allow time to heal. That’s why I’m here. To give patients and their families the gift of time. I want them to know their nurse is not rushing to the next patient. When you press the call button, we’re right there. You are the center of our world, and we’re doing our very best to give you what you need. It’s what human beings deserve, and I pray the public feels that warm embrace the moment they walk through the St. Michael’s doors.” With this mindset, Diane has spent the last eight months growing the St. Michael’s leadership team. “I interview every single person before they are hired,” explains Diane. “And I communicate my expectations. I only hire empathetic people who want to work in healthcare, want to be here, and want to WOW our patients. This leadership

team started out young, and I’m supporting their growth. We are all equals, and we support each other in the vision. Every single St. Michael’s employee is responsible for providing the best care a patient ever had. I want to hear patients say they’ll never go anywhere else.” Diane’s leadership team includes Scott Isbell (Safety Officer and Engineering), Autumn Norsworthy (Director of Nursing), Michelle Nichols (HIPPA Officer, Medical Records, Patient Service Representatives), Vincent Tung (Radiology), Matt Mayland (Laboratory Services), and Dr. Karen Richardson (Associate Medical Directors, ER Physicians). “Since we are so small, many of us wear multiple hats,” explains Diane. “This team understands the mission and the priorities. We are a CIHQ (Center for Improvement in Healthcare Quality) accredited hospital, and we are very proud of that. It’s rare that I hear something negative about this team, but when I do, we own it and make immediate changes.” “It all starts at the top. I couldn’t do any of

by Amy Sharp

this without the support of St. Michael’s owners and founders, Dr. Shannon Orsak and Brian Orsak. If they didn’t also believe the priority is excellent patient care in a timely manner, I would not be here. We always make sure our patients are listened to, assessed holistically, and we are always here to help.”

St. Michael’s

Elite Hospital is a participating provider for Medicare and 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

F CUS

Visions of Health and Vitality

by Amy Sharp

hink visions of yard tools and grills and neckties are dancing through your guy’s head? Maybe. But maybe he secretly dreams of the days of yore… when he had a raging libido, tons of energy, and lots of muscle mass. We haven’t found the proverbial fountain of youth yet, but Dr. Lance Campbell, Pharm.D, R.Ph at local Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy has the next best thing. All those things usually written off as a typical mid-life crisis––lower sex drive, fatigue, irritability, and decreased muscle mass––can be symptoms of low testosterone. Dr. Campbell says, “The condition is extremely underdiagnosed. The onset is slow, and before you know it the guy that was once the picture of health and vitality now looks completely satisfied being a ‘couch potato’.” But what do you do if this describes you or your special guy? BHRT (bioidentical hormone replacement therapy) can literally give guys their life back. Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy can prepare a customized formula just for him and follow up to make sure he’s getting the relief he needs. The team at Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy includes Dr. Omar Alkazzaz, Dr. Danny Thai, and Dr. Lisa Mathew. Want to learn more? Schedule a one hour consultation where one of these professionals will explain to you the fundamentals of BHRT, and how it could improve your health. Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy You will have the opportunity to “If our staff can’t make it… discuss any concerns you have, and then you probably don’t need it!” get the answers you really need. Dr. Campbell, his wife Rakel, and their kids Cole, Chloe, Sugar Land • 281-980-2555 Caitlyn, and Claire can’t wait for the holiday season. Dr. Campbell 4760 Sweetwater Blvd. Suite 103 says, “I can’t think of a better gift for you or your loved ones than Houston • 713-668-4833 health and vitality. From my family to yours, I want to wish everyone 6603 Kirby Dr., Houston, TX 77005 out there a very Merry Christmas!”

www.campbellscompounding.com

going on now! SEMAGLUTIDE Semaglutide Holiday GIFT for Yourself or a Loved One

Arlene Tinker, MD EXP 12-31-23

Approved by the FDA for weight loss, semaglutide injections are one of the tools available in my program for individuals that need weight loss help. Many people lose a tremendous amount of weight with it. I offer the injections both as a home program and an in-office program. *some restrictions apply

10 ~ UPCLOSE ~ December 2023

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Sinang Medical & Associates 281-247-5300 1601 Main Street, Suite 210 Richmond, Texas 77469 www.sinanghealth.com

A General Contractor

With QUALITY People

by Amy Sharp

heryl and Sidney have lived in their home since remodel. We trusted everyone 2015. “The different flooring and tile patterns in Teri sent to us. She brought the dining room, kitchen, entryway, and family in quality people. When Your room drove Sheryl crazy!” says Sidney. “We we couldn’t find a wanted to replace it all with the same flooring. subway tile that matched for The kitchen and family room were separated by a a backsplash, we decided to partial wall. We wanted to knock that wall out, open run the quartz up the wall. Specialist up the room, and gut and remodel the kitchen.” The quartz person did an “We had read about Teri Gilberg (better known amazing job matching the as The Re-Modelista) on NextDoor and in UpClose veining from the countertop magazine,” continues Sheryl. “An acquaintance had up into the backsplash. It’s also used her for a remodel. We received quotes from Teri my favorite part of the kitchen! and one other contractor. We really liked Teri. Her budget was Every member of Teri’s team was good, and she was very patient with my wants and suggestions. professional, prompt, and tidy. Teri also She listened to my ideas. I was concerned we wouldn’t have made small suggestions that made a huge enough storage with the loss of the cabinets in the partial wall. difference. For example, in the family room I suggested we remove the kitchen fur down and put cabinets she suggested we raise the doorways about to the ceiling. With the wall gone, I also wanted a bigger pantry. a foot. That simple change opened up the Teri suggested pantry cabinets with rollouts, which I love. When space even more.” I suggested wine slots to the ceiling with space in each one for The estimated timeline for the project was six two wine bottles, Teri’s team asked if I was sure. I was. I wanted to weeks. Teri’s estimate was right on. “We lived in utilize all of the space. We put a lazy susan in the corner cabinet, our master bedroom for six weeks with our two and a spice drawer next to the stove. The island was made dogs and a toaster oven,” laughs Sheryl. “We bigger, and as a result the recessed space for can lights above do recommend Teri. She is awesome!” it was extended to match the island. We put a dog cabinet and a ‘command center’ cabinet next to the fridge with a pegboard The Re-Modelista inside for keys. Teri’s not locked into her own style. She’s a good Your Home Renovation Specialist listener to your ideas.” For materials, Sidney and Sheryl used resources on Teri’s website. Serving Fort Bend County For More Than 10 Years “I can’t imagine trying to do this without a general contractor,” 832-535-2501 • cell: 832-731-3191 explains Sidney. “Teri called, texted, and stopped by daily during our www.theremodelista.com

Kitchen Bath

UPCLOSE ~ December 2023 ~ 11

DENTAL Health: Pro Tips for Parents

Use It or Lose It D

by Amy Sharp

id you know that at the end of the year any dental benefits you have not used are wiped away, and your insurance benefits for the new year kick in? Dr. Faisal Khan, founder of local Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental, says, “There are some dental insurances that run on a fiscal year, but the majority of dental insurances run on a calendar year. This means that on January 1st, any dental benefits you had on December 31st get reset. Very few plans roll over benefits. By using all or as much of your dental benefits before the new year, you could be saving your family money.” Ways to “use it before you lose it” • Most dental insurances allow two cleanings anytime in the year. If you haven’t yet The team at Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental includes taken advantage of your child’s two cleanings, they will be lost come January 1st. Dr. Faisal Khan, Dr. Priyanshi Ritwik, Dr. Annie Zheng, • “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Your child may be eligible for and Dr. Khadija Khan. Don’t wait until next year and preventative services, including sealants. Also, taking care of any dental issues now potentially leave unused dental benefits on the table. helps in preventing problems from getting worse…saving money in the long run. Schedule your child’s appointment at Grand Parkway What may be a simple cavity that only needs a filling, can turn into a crown or even Pediatric Dental today! the premature loss of a tooth. • Stubborn baby teeth causing the permanent teeth to come in crooked can easily Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental be removed, making orthodontics easier and more cost effective for your child in Dr. Faisal M. Khan, DDS the future. 832-246-7255 • Yearly deductibles also reset in January. If you’ve met your deductible and still have 7910 W. Grand Parkway S., Suite 100 benefits remaining, it’s a great idea to use those benefits this year, and not pay the Richmond, TX 77406 deductible again next year. www.grandparkwaypediatricdental.com

Get More from Lone Star Floors

Our team is at your service. Lone Star Floors was founded more than 30 years ago by cousins Mohamed Naser, Ziad Mukhaimer, and Imad Mansour. The company enjoys a long-standing reputation for doing things right. “Always by the book,” says Mohamed. The first step to smart lighting or creating an outdoor living space is to schedule a design consultation. “Our designers help guide you through the selection of products and materials. We’ll put together something you’ll love. Guaranteed!”

Lone Star Floors • 3 Locations • www.lonestarfloors.com Sugar Land: 281-564-1345 10009 Highway 6 South Sugar Land, TX

12 ~ UPCLOSE ~ December 2023

Katy: 281-398-2319 873 South Mason Rd. #300 Katy, TX

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A KW Southwest Experience

Erin and Joseph Lagasca’s Story by Amy Sharp

rin and Joseph Lagasca’s son was just seven months old the way, and made sure we got top dollar for that house.” when the family learned Joseph would be transferring to While preparing for the arrival of their second child, the Lagascas Midland, TX. “I insisted on a neighborhood real estate learned that they would be back in Houston this year. “We called agent to sell our house in Aliana,” explains Erin. “Keller Jamie of course,” says Erin. “We did the majority of our search with Williams Southwest (KWSW) agent Jamie Kastens was not virtual tours the week before our daughter was born. I narrowed the on the list for our relocation company, but she was the one I wanted. choices down to three (without ever having seen them in person), and Her signs were everywhere, and we would see her volunteering in our had Joseph go look at them and pick one. We signed the papers two community. During the pandemic, Jamie had partnered with a small, days before our daughter was born. It was our 3rd new build, and this local woodworking business to make and ship wooden ornaments with time it was different from the others. Jamie kept on top of things with family names. I loved that she was helping a struggling the builder. She kept them accountable and made sure business during a very tough time. I called Jamie to things were being done according to schedule without help us sell the house.” prompting from me. All walkthroughs–including the final “Jamie knew the neighborhood, she knew the area, walkthrough–were with Joseph. I only saw the house once, and she knew the market well. When we needed a two weeks before closing. It was hard not being present landscape person to spruce up the yard before the for all the walkthroughs, but I knew Jamie would not let listing, Jamie had one there the same day. Same thing anything fall through the cracks. Jamie’s passion is helping with a handyman to fix up things in the house that we people, and she was 100% with us all of the time. It felt like couldn’t take care of. Jamie gave us a list of things to she didn’t have any other clients. While moving with a baby do before the photos, and I really appreciated that she under one was not easy, I would do it again with Jamie! came by before the photos to make sure it looked the She made the process so enjoyable, and she is an excellent KW Agent way that she expected. She was with us every step of negotiator. I would hire Jamie a million times over!” Jamie Kastens

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 600 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 ~ December 2023 ~ 13

Let People See You, Not Your ACNE

“I

by Amy Sharp

grew up with acne,” says board-certified Physician Assistant, Vy Ngo, at Heights Dermatology– Rosenberg. “I struggled with it forever. Finally, in my teen years, I saw a dermatologist. Oral and topical medications did not clear it up. I was discouraged. Then I started isotretinoin at age 16, and I’ve never had acne again. That’s when I decided I wanted to do the same for others. I chose dermatology as my career path because I know what it’s like to not feel confident in your skin.” “There’s a detective-like aspect to medical dermatology that I really enjoy,” continues Vy. “For teens and adults with acne, it’s finding the best treatment for them. Many are so discouraged with over-the-counter treatments, they do not ever expect their acne to completely clear up. It’s especially frustrating for teens. They grew up never having acne, and suddenly after a growth spurt, they break out. It affects their self esteem, and it changes their quality of life.”

For mild acne, prescription topical medications applied every day are the mainstay of therapy. “These medications prevent new lesions from popping up,” explains Vy. “For moderate acne, we add in an oral medication in conjunction with the topical. Severe acne is treated with isotretinoin. Our goal is to completely clear up the acne!” For those that experience acne scarring, Heights Dermatology–Rosenberg offers chemical peels, microneedling, and laser resurfacing. Additional cosmetic dermatology offerings include intense pulsed light (IPL), laser hair removal, neurotoxins, and dermal fillers. “My passion is educating patients, and helping patients feel confident in their skin!” says Vy. Heights Dermatology–Rosenberg is a satellite location of the highly-esteemed Houston-area Heights Dermatology & Aesthetic Center. It is under the direction of board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Alpesh Desai. Appointments can be requested at www.heightsskin.com.

Heights Dermatology - Rosenberg • 713-730-2000 • 5219 Reading Road, Rosenberg, TX 77471 • www.heightsskin.com 14 ~ UPCLOSE ~ December 2023

To advertise, 281-235-0600

When You’re Here, You’re ACTUALLY Family!

by Amy Sharp

fia is a respiratory therapist at Houston Methodist, and she also teaches at UTMB. Zain’s a consultant for IBM. This couple has been dining at Aga’s Restaurant, locally owned by Shaukat Maredia and his family, since their son Zakaria was in a car seat. “I eat here at least once a week,” laughs Zain. “And the family comes about every two weeks. Zakaria grew up here. We celebrate every special occasion at Aga’s…graduations, birthdays, anniversaries, and date nights. I’m here so much, one of the waiters once asked me, ‘Doesn’t your wife cook?’ We also come at least twice a week during Ramadan, when Aga’s provides free food to ‘break the fast.’ And it’s not just fruit. It’s chicken, samosas, and more. What’s truly amazing is that Shaukat doesn’t distinguish between who is fasting, and who is not. If you’re hungry, he says, ‘It’s fine, just show up and eat.’ He’s so generous.” Take a look around Aga’s Restaurant, and it looks like the Houston airport. It’s people from all walks of life, a diverse crowd. Afia says, “It’s the best Indo-Pak restaurant in America. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you’re from, Aga’s has something for everyone. I always say it’s an injustice to come to Aga’s and not have the Goat Chops. Zakaria loves the Butter Chicken and Chicken Lollipops. For years, Zain only ordered Beef Nihari: a Pakistani beef stew. But recently, we were turned on to the Karahi, and every kind of Karahi served here is fantastic.” Kharahi is named after the steep-sided, wok-like pot in which the dish is cooked. “The Karahi is brought to the table in the pot it was cooked in, and I highly recommend scraping the sides of that pot with the garlic naan. Delicious! On special occasions, we end our meal with the Mithai Chaat: an assortment of multiple desserts. It’s served with melt-in-yourmouth, pistachio ice cream. It’s so good!” On this particular evening, the family stopped in at Aga’s to eat after Zakaria’s class at Sugar Land

MMA. “We often stop in on nights we are busy,” explains Zain. “Aga’s is a well-oiled machine with an unparalleled level of service. I’ve brought in parties of 50 or 60, and everyone gets their food at the same time. Ninety-nine percent of the staff knows my name, and I know their name and their family’s names. When you’re here, you’re actually family. This is our home away from home!”

832-786-8000 11842 Wilcrest Drive Houston, TX 77031

www.agasrestaurant.com

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HOUSTON METHODIST LEADING CARE where you need us

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