February 2024
Magazine
The Dry Eye Guy
DROPLESS
CUTTING-EDGE
February 2024
DRY EYE TREATMENT
The Dry Eye Guy
Dropless
Dry Eye Treatment DR.
by Amy Sharp
Faheem Inayatali, founder of local Dry Eye & Wellness Center, is a key opinion leader for dry eye disease. He says, “We do not conduct eye exams for glasses or contacts. We specialize in dry eye disease and wellness. This is leading medicine, the future of eye care.” Do Not Play Tug-of-War With Your Body Around the world, dry eye disease is treated with artificial tears or medicated eye drops. Dr. Faheem says, “This method is commonly prescribed without truly taking the time to understand the root cause of the disease. The body and eyes are linked with one another, and in our office we often end up diagnosing underlying conditions. In order to get to the core cause, it’s important to know how your body is functioning, and also how structures such as your eyelids and tear glands are behaving. An individual with chronic dry eyes often has tears that are of poor quality…which may have been due to inflammation. Our exploratory diagnosis includes an in-house hormone analysis, bloodwork, and antioxidant levels. Your body is likely in a game of tug-of-war with your eyes, which needs to be in balance to achieve sustainable symptom relief.” Thirty-three percent of adults suffer from dry eye disease. Dry Eye & Wellness Center sees patients from all over the world who enjoy a 94% success rate of relief. “We focus on the restoration and rehabilitation of all structures around the eye,” explains Dr. Faheem. “Our array of dropless treatment options Dr. Faheem Inayatali includes radiofrequency for dry eye, intense pulse light (IPL) treatment, Lipiflow thermal pulsation, and low-level light therapy. We put together a comprehensive plan that’s best for your specific type of dry eye disease.” Dry Eye and Wellness Center also offers advanced platelet-rich plasma (PRP) eye drops for patients who have developed corneal inflammation from severe dry eye disease. Dr. Faheem says, “This technology uses patients’ own growth factors to create drops to heal dryness that do not contain preservatives or additives. It has been around for over 20 years. However, it’s largely inaccessible. We have a team that can create them for you right here in the office within a couple of hours.” Maintaining Success “Our goal here at Dry Eye & Wellness Center is to make you forget about your eyes,” continues Dr. Faheem. “The unique experience we provide for our patients includes memberships plans, IV hydration, massage therapy chairs, and compression therapy. You’re provided with a hydration and nutrition plan (that includes sleep!) to maintain your success. We recently expanded to include cutting-edge wellness and aesthetic services inside the office. Not only will you forget about your eyes, we’ll help you elevate your well-being and appearance in the process!”
FREE
Tear Film Analysis Stop the bandaid approach from OVER-THECOUNTER eye drops. Get to the ROOT of dry eye disease. Book your complimentary consultation now. Dry Eye & Wellness Center is proud to be the only standalone dry eye clinic in the Houston area. Consultations can be scheduled by visiting dryeyeandwellness. com or calling 281-800-9050. Dry Eye & Wellness Center 281-800-9050 13440 University Blvd #130 Sugar Land, Texas 77479 www.dryeyeandwellness.com
Aga’s Restaurant is locally owned by Shaukat Maredia and his family. As part of the generous check presentation, Shaukat was given a behind-the-scenes tour of CAFB by CEO Ruthanne Mefford and Development Director Lisa Moore. Sugar Land City Councilman Naushaud Kermally also joined the tour.
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Share The Love by Amy Sharp
n December 18, 2023, Aga’s Restaurant & Catering made a $25,000 donation to Child Advocates of Fort Bend (CAFB). Aga’s Restaurant is locally owned by Shaukat Maredia and his family. As part of the generous check presentation, Shaukat was given a behind-the-scenes tour of CAFB by CEO Ruthanne Mefford and Development Director Lisa Moore. Sugar Land City Councilman Naushaud Kermally also joined the tour. Shaukat says, “My father taught me that charity begins at home, with family, neighbors, and community. Charity does not see color or religion, and that we should always remember that somebody needs our help…that we can make a difference in someone’s life. I grew up in a small village in South Asia in a home that was smaller than my current living room. I came to this country with $900 in my pocket. What Fort Bend County has given me and my family is beyond imagination. I do whatever I can to make this community a better place. I can feel the good energy here at CAFB, the power. I’m so thrilled and honored to be a part of this.” CAFB serves child victims of sexual abuse, physical abuse and neglect through a one-stop, comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach. It operates two nationally affiliated programs: Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) and Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC). Child Advocates of Fort Bend In its cozy, nature-themed facility in 281-344-5108 • www.cafb.org Rosenberg, CAFB meets these children where they are…making them feel comfortable and safe. Since its launch in 1991, CAFB has served more than 22,000 children. Last year, nearly 4,000 families and children were served. All CAFB services are free of charge. “Councilman Kermally and I know a lot of people,” continues Shaukat. “Our goal is to raise awareness. CAFB is transforming lives. This organization makes Fort Bend County a better place. I plan to raise a lot of money for them, and I encourage other local businesses and individuals in our community to learn more about CAFB. To facilitate this, I will be organizing free dinner events at Aga’s Restaurant where CAFB
can come out and speak to business owners. Together, we can make a huge impact in the lives of these children and families.” A VOICES FOR CHILDREN behindthe-scenes tour of CAFB can be scheduled by contacting Lisa at lmoore@cafb.org or 281-3445108. Tours are held once a month.
Feel The Love
Share a fantastic meal with your loved ones this Valentine’s Day at Aga’s Restaurant: the #1 Indo-Pak restaurant in North America.
832-786-8000 11842 Wilcrest Drive Houston, TX 77031
www.agasrestaurant.com
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Shrimply Delicious for Your Special Valentine’s Dinner by Alisha McMillen
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ort Bend favorite, Pier 36 Seafood Restaurant and Oyster Bar, invites Valentine’s couples to visit one of their two locations to celebrate over a special dinner. “Our restaurants offer a great ambiance for your special date night with their casual and chic atmospheres,” says owner Jimmy Cantu. “We have a couple of fun restaurants to serve our Fort Bend Valentine’s couples!” Come to either location early to experience Happy Hour, from 3pm until 7pm Monday through Friday. Enjoy the large menu, with a wide selection of seafood options, many with Cajun flavorings. There are also beef and chicken menu items for landlovers. “Everything on the menu at Pier 36 is made from scratch,” says Jimmy. “I’ve been shucking fresh oysters and cooking our family’s seafood recipes since I was young, spending afternoons at my parents’ seafood restaurant.” The family’s longtime recipes, like whole-fried catfish, seafood gumbo, and crawfish etouffee, have become customer favorites, along with newer menu items, like ceviche, crabmeat stuffed mushrooms, and grilled tuna. “And everyone loves our fresh oyster bar,” explains Jimmy. “Many of our customers have been dining with us for so many
years, we consider them family. We’ve been open in Richmond for 18 years and in Fulshear for six years.” “Valentine’s couples can start with a couple dozen oysters or a couple of crab cakes, followed by a couple of bowls of gumbo, and a catfish or tilapia meal with a couple of filets,” Jimmy says with a laugh. “It’s all about couples on this special day…and we have a couple of restaurants to make sure you enjoy the night celebrating as a couple.”
So Delicious, You May Want to Go Twice… Try Both Fort Bend Locations! Pier 36 Seafood Restaurant and Oyster Bar Richmond 281-238-4800 1410 E Highway 90A # 200 Richmond, TX 77406 Fulshear 281-346-8379 8502 FM 359 Fulshear, TX 77441 www.pier36seafood.com
HELP FILL THE EMPTY BOWLS
E
IN OUR COMMUNITY
by Amy Sharp
mpty Bowls is a grassroots effort by artists and craftspeople in cities and towns across the country to feed the hungry in their communities. Our local Fort Bend Empty Bowls benefits East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry (EFBHNM). “What we do at EFBHNM,” says Development Director Stacey Williams, “is serve the basic human needs of families in our community in a temporary financial crisis. We see new families each week, and it’s often not who you would expect. Grocery store prices are rising, and so many of our neighbors are affected by job loss, a change in family dynamics, and other unexpected situations that leave them in need of assistance.” In 2023, EFBHNM assisted 18,748 adults and 16,841 children experiencing food insecurity. Now in its 15th year, Empty Bowls–EFBHNM’s largest fundraiser of the year–will be held June 14, 2024 at Houston Marriott Sugar Land. Dinner includes a simple meal of appetizers, delicious soups, and bread. This year’s Empty Bowls title sponsor is Houston Methodist Sugar Land. Local restaurants, including Avenida Brazil Churrascaria, Texas Biergarten, and B.B Italia, will be providing the soup. Various sponsorship opportunities are still available. Empty Bowls attendees always look forward to selecting a bowl (for a nominal donation) handcrafted by members of the Fort Bend community. EFBHNM Executive Director Vickie Coates says, “This fundraiser is fun, and it takes a village. We invite everyone in the community to join us this spring to paint a bowl for Empty Bowls. No artistic experience required!”
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To advertise, 281-235-0600
Paint a Bowl for
Empty Bowls Wednesday, February 7, 5pm - 8pm Thursday, February 8, 10am - 1pm Wednesday, February 21, 5pm - 8pm Wednesday, March 6, 5pm - 8pm Wednesday, March 20, 5pm - 8pm Thursday, March 21, 10am - 1pm Learn more about Empty Bowls sponsorship opportunities or sign up to paint a bowl by visiting www.humanneeds.org/ empty-bowls. East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry, Inc. 281-261-1006 435 Stafford Run Stafford, Texas 77477 www.humanneeds.org
! e r o m A s ’ t a h T
by Amy Sharp
An Evening Of Romance At Corelli’s Italian Cafe
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t’s been nearly three decades since Corelli’s Italian Cafe opened its fun, casual Italian concept in Sugar Land. Along that journey, Corelli’s has been awarded “BEST ITALIAN” by customers as well as newspapers and magazines in both Sugar Land and Fort Bend County. Whether you’re dining with your sweetheart, your daughter, or your entire family, this casual atmosphere will steal your heart away this Valentine’s Day. You’ll begin your journey when you step through the front doors of Corelli’s. Here, classic movie posters translated into Italian gaze out over cozy booths and red-and-whitecheckered tables. We spy Donnie Brasco… can you spot some of your favorites? When the weather’s mild, you’ll also have the option to dine al fresco on Corelli’s charming Italian patio. The next step in your journey is the amazing food. Corelli’s motto remains, “Cooking fresh for you daily.” Families and friends gather here for fabulous entrees, like the mouthwatering lasagna, spaghetti tossed with the restaurant’s fresh homemade sugo
rosa sauce with Corelli’s famous meatballs, or the ever-popular Creamy Chicken Pesto. One of many offerings for the carb-conscious is the Salmon Florentine, served on a bed of spinach with artichokes and sun-dried tomatoes and complemented with a white wine lemon butter sauce. It’s Valentine’s Day, so don’t miss out on Corelli’s desserts. The cheesecake and tiramisu are some of the best in Houston. Made in-house, both are a labor of love. For private get-togethers of up to 28, the Corelli’s wine room paired with this fabulous Italian cuisine is “Perfetto!” Corelli’s will work with your budget to create an incredible experience for your private party. Experience the warm and fun ambiance of Corelli’s Italian Cafe this Valentine’s Day. We think, “That’s Amore!” Corelli’s Italian Cafe 281-491-8900 3229 Highway 6 @Williams Trace Sugar Land, Texas 77478 www.corellis.com
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UPCLOSE ~ February 2024 ~ 5
You Can Be Attractive and Single, But Your Teeth Cannot
Dental Implants Could Help You Find Love
during or after the procedure. Any soreness after the procedure can be resolved with overthe-counter pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Once the implant is set and you have healed completely, we work with you to create a crown that matches the size, shape, and color of your remaining teeth. With your new ‘tooth’ in place, no one is the wiser. It’ll look and feel like a strong, natural tooth. You’ll be able to squeeze your teeth tightly, eat everything, talk, laugh happily, and even kiss!” The first step to “perfect” dating teeth is a consultation where Dr. Patel wll perform a dental exam, 3D scans, and a review of your medical history. Once she’s determined your oral health, the Smile Solutions team will assist you with finding the right treatment plan for both your teeth and your budget. Dr. Patel says, “Please don’t hesitate to contact our office with questions about dental implants. We always love to help!”
by Amy Sharp
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id you know that social experiments regarding the effect of “bad teeth” have been conducted on dating websites? In the experiment, an individual creates two separate dating accounts. Both accounts have identical settings…likes, friends, and almost exactly the same photographs. The only difference is that one account features the prospective dater with discolored and missing teeth, while the matching profile has a “perfect smile.” The results are staggering. The “perfect teeth” profile receives as much as 60% more attention than its “bad teeth” counterpart. Teeth really do matter in the dating world! But what can you do to perfect your smile? Dr. Asha Patel, founder of local Smile Solutions, says, “Dental implants are a great option for many individuals with broken or missing teeth. Unlike other tooth replacement options, implants are specifically designed to mimic the look, function, and durability of natural teeth. I know what you’re thinking, ‘Implants must be painful!’ The truth is… with today’s technology, most patients who receive a dental implant report little to no discomfort
Smile Solutions Dr. Asha Patel, DMD, FAGD 832-449-5442 7963 W. Grand Parkway S. Suite A, Richmond, TX 77407 smilesolutionsrichmond.com
DESIGN INSPIRATION
home interior design trends
2024
Design trends come and go, but Lone Star Floors is here to help you to make your home a space you can always grow with—even when your style changes.
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 creating an updated living space is to schedule a design consultation. “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
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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
www.upclosemagazine.com
G E T
M O R E
F R O M
LONE STAR
FLOORS
Celebrating Five Years
SUGAR LAND
CELEBR ATIN G
YEAR S
in Sugar Land
During This
Month of Love
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by Alisha McMillen
hen April and Chris Muller opened the Arthur Murray dance studio in Sugar Land in February of 2019, their goal was to get people on their feet and dancing. As they celebrate the studio’s fifth anniversary this month, the couple is thrilled with the studio’s warm reception into this community. “Chris and I were once the only instructors in the studio teaching lessons,” says April. “In five years, we’ve grown to have a great team of instructors, offering dozens of different types of dance, including waltz, salsa, country 2-step, swing and more!” February is the perfect month to get started at Arthur Murray. “Valentine’s Day is a great day to start creating your own traditions, maybe even creating an anniversary event that you yourself will celebrate for years to come,” says April. “Couples are always looking for a unique way to spend this special day, and what’s more special than dancing the night away with your Valentine?” Located in the U.S., Canada and many other countries, Arthur Murray Dance Centers have been teaching dancers for more than 110 years. April and Chris first got involved with dance at Iowa State University, where they each joined the ballroom dancing club for social opportunities. The couple eventually became dance partners. competed together, and later started teaching together at the Arthur Murray studio in Cypress before opening the Sugar Land location. You don’t need a partner to get started. Arthur Murray has dance classes for both singles and couples. “Dance is a great social activity, and it’s also a great way to express your emotions,” says April. “We offer a new student special to help dancers get started: $40 for an introductory sample lesson where you can try any of the dances that interest you. The majority of our students are dancing for fun and for social reasons. There are opportunities available for those who want to take it further, however, with many of our dancers being recognized nationally
over the last five years. Ninety percent of our dancers have never danced before, so we start at the beginning and help them achieve their goals however large or small.” Arthur Murray Sugar Land’s mission is to provide our community with a high-quality dance experience in a nurturing environment… the perfect activity to enjoy on Valentine’s Day and beyond. Arthur Murray Sugar Land 713-899-3606 16525 Lexington Blvd., Suite 170 Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.arthurmurraysugarland.com
Anniversary Celebration! Saturday, February 24th
Social Dancing and Performances 7-9pm
Call 713.899.3606 to RSVP
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Need a Love Potion? by Amy Sharp
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hocolate, oysters, candlelight, red roses…you’ve tried them all. Now it’s Valentine’s Day, and you’re running out of options to rev up your lackluster love life. Is it her? Is it him? “It may be both!” says Dr. Lance Campbell, Pharm. D., R.Ph. of local Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy. “In both men and women, hormones are the force behind your sex drive. Aging results in a natural drop in progesterone and estrogen in women, and an often unwanted drop in a man’s testosterone levels. When everything else has been tried, perhaps it’s time to look at what is UNSEEN. Time to have your hormone levels checked by your doctor.” For men and women diagnosed with a hormone imbalance, Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy can prepare all-natural, customized bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) medications. Dr. Campbell says, “Our progesterone, testosterone, and estrogen are all plant-based; they’re made from yams, and they mimic the molecular structure in your body. These are not the hormones of the 1940s that were created from horse urine and were more potent than what the body produces. These are all-natural and biologically identical to what your body makes. Through compounding, we control both how the medication is delivered to your system and its dosage. This is truly customized medicine.” The team at Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy includes Dr. Omar Alkazzaz and Dr. Lisa Mathew. Want to learn more? Schedule a one
DEAR SUGAR LAND
hour consultation where one of these professionals will explain to you the fundamentals of BHRT, and how it could improve your health. Dr. Campbell founded Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy more than 20 years ago. He and his wife Rakel are proud parents to Cole, Chloe, Caitlyn and Claire. Dr. Campbell says, “I love my life with Rakel and the kids, and I also realize that a successful marriage takes work. If you’ve unsuccessfully tried everything to rekindle the flame, hormone replacement therapy could be the answer you’ve both been looking for! My team and I would love to help put the romance back into your relationship this Valentine’s Day!”
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
WE’RE HERE TO ANSWER YOUR MEDICARE QUESTIONS. MONDAY THRU FRIDAY | 9 AM - 5 PM
MEDICARE
Did you know that of the over 24,000 Medicare agents in the state of Texas, three of the best live right here in Fort Bend County? Cindy Posas, Keren Delaune, and Kaushi Shah are all founding members of Clutch City Insurance. They’ve been helping Sugar Land and Fort Bend County seniors navigate Medicare for many years. You won’t find too many agents out there that know more about the Medicare system than these three. Whether you’re a current Medicare beneficiary or preparing to celebrate your 65th birthday, give them a call.
Our agents speak: English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Chinese Mandarin, Cantonese, Taiwanese, Hindi, Gujarati, Thai, Lao, Tagalog, German, and Portuguese.
KAUSHI SHAH
KEREN DELAUNE
CINDY POSAS
(832) 282-3515 KSHAH@CCIHOU.COM
(281) 236-1321 KDELAUNE@CCIHOU.COM
(832) 704-5112 CPOSAS@CCIHOU.COM
A portion of the editorial content contained in this publication is controlled and contracted by the advertisers contained herein and is part of their advertisement. UpClose Magazine is not responsible for content of these editorials or advertisements. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.
Booze and Boobs T by Amy Sharp
he Classic Elite family of dealerships, locally owned by Tiffany and Jeff Sebastian, was honored to sponsor the third annual Booze and Boobs held on January 16th at Marmo. Founded by Star Hand and Chloe Di Leo, Booze and Boobs is a ladies-only, all-pink-attire event where every dollar raised goes to support The Rose. The Rose is a Houston-based, nonprofit breast care organization dedicated to saving lives through breast health services, advocacy, and access to care for all. It provides mammograms, diagnostics, ultrasounds, biopsies, and more to women regardless of ability to pay. Star has been involved in raising money for cancer for 23 years. “My family and my husband’s family have been impacted by cancer in many ways,” explains Star. “Three years ago, we created an event where every dollar goes to charity. Booze and Boobs has no overhead. Every dollar raised goes to support The Rose. I’m very excited about the way this event has grown over the past three years. A huge thank you to Classic Elite and all of our sponsors this year!” “Love fills our hearts for all the incredible ladies who attended our pink event supporting The Rose,” continues Chloe. “Despite the harsh weather (Houston was frozen on January 16th!), your presence meant the world to us. We extend our deepest gratitude and appreciation for your unwavering support. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!”
All dresses designed by Isabel Lopez of Isabel Original International.
Tiffany says, “Jeff and I were humbled to once again be a part of Boobs and Boobs. We’ve all been touched by breast cancer, either personally or through family and close friends. Events like Booze and Boobs are important because they raise both funds and awareness. Like Star, I look forward to an even bigger event next year. Together, as a community, we are saving the lives of many women.” Illustrated by www.gavileveaux.com This year’s Booze and Boobs sponsors included Classic Elite, Marmo, Hal Martin’s Watch & Jewelry Co., My Drink Bomb, Gentle Ben, Iconstrux Design+Build, The Roula & Ryan Show, Star & Ivan Hand, Gina & Benny Gates, Gena & Paul Horak, Holly & Darron Clay, Kerri & Graham Ross, H Investments, The Ghost Foundation, Timeless Vodka, Lamborghini Winery, Coco Vodka, and House of Blooms. While the event has wrapped, you can still help by visiting TheRose.org and donating in honor of Booze and Boobs.
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
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DENTAL Health: Pro Tips for Parents
Sealed with a Swish (of Your Dentist’s Hand) for Valentine’s Day
T
by Alisha McMillen
reat your teeth with as much care as your heart this Valentine’s Day. Dental sealants protect teeth against tooth decay and can stop unwanted cavities from forming. Sealants are thin, plastic coatings painted on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. Application is simple and painless. “Tooth decay affects patients of all ages, from children to adults,” says Dr. Faisal Khan, founder of local Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental. “For the healthiest teeth, the best time to apply sealants is when patients are ages five to 14.” When applied properly, dental sealants can provide many long-lasting benefits. Studies show that 42% of children between ages two and 11 develop dental cavities in their primary teeth. “Sealants are a quick and easy way to Dr. Priyanshi Ritwik, Dr. Annie Zheng, and Dr. Khadija prevent cavities children get in their permanent molars,” says Dr. Khan. With the right care, dental sealants can protect the recipient’s teeth for Khan, prefer to apply sealants early instead of filling years. “The CDC states that dental sealants prevent 80% of cavities for two cavities later. “It’s such a quick and easy, pain-free years after application and continue to protect against 50% of cavities for up process that will make children more comfortable and require less dental work in the future…and sealants are to four years,” explains Dr. Khan. The effectiveness of sealants can be easily evaluated at regular dental covered by most insurance companies. It’s a win-win!” check-ups. If sealants have been chipped or worn away, the dentist or dental Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental hygienist can quickly repair damaged sealants simply by adding more sealant Dr. Faisal M. Khan, DDS material. 832-246-7255 An alumnus of Montefiore Medical Ctr/Albert Einstein Medical School 7910 W. Grand Parkway S., Suite 100 and a fellow at Albert Einstein Medical School in Special Care Dentistry, Dr. Richmond, TX 77406 Khan has been a longtime proponent of sealants. He and his team, including www.grandparkwaypediatricdental.com
Early Intervention Brings Big Smiles… for Patients and Parents
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by Alisha McMillen
hen parents think of orthodontic care, they often envision teens in metal braces. But did you know the recommended age to first visit an orthodontist is actually seven years old?” “Early intervention is key,” says Dr. Srishti Mehta, founder of Indigo Orthodontics in Richmond. “Palatal expansion is required for some patients. If identified and treated early, it can reduce the need for extractions or prevent impacted teeth.” A palatal expander is a piece of hardware that can make the upper jaw wider and help to reduce crowding in abnormally narrow arches. “Ideally, a palatal expander is used while the patient is still growing,” explains Dr. Mehta. “Expansion occurs when the growth plate or suture in the middle of the palate is stretched, and the two halves are pushed apart. As the two halves are spread, new bone is added.” Required treatment isn’t always so comprehensive. Sometimes, younger patients can spend a short
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time in early braces to correct larger problems later. And if the early evaluation identifies impacted teeth or issues with baby teeth, removing them early can help permanent teeth emerge better without an orthodontic appliance at all. Indigo Orthodontics offers a free consultation to determine what, if any, steps need to be taken to begin the orthodontic process. Dr. Mehta and Dr. Angelica Herrera, both highly-skilled professionals with years of experience, create treatment plans together after the consultation has been completed. “Not every patient will need early treatment,” says Dr. Mehta. “But the consultation will offer peace of mind for parents either way. Children that don’t require treatment are monitored through our follow-up recall program. Followup evaluations are also free and give us the best opportunity to intervene at the right time. That’s how much I value early intervention.” What happens if you missed the memo about early intervention? Don’t worry, the office treats kids, teens, and adults. Indigo Orthodontics is a Diamond Invisalign provider and can treat many orthodontic issues for teenagers and adults with Invisalign. Call now to schedule your complimentary Indigo Orthodontics consultation – no referral needed.
Indigo Orthodontics 281-201-2087 7623 West Grand Parkway S. Richmond, TX 77407 www.indigoortho.com
LEADING IN BUSINESS | FORT BEND
GROWING With KW Southwest
N Jana Hayes
Build careers worth having, businesses worth owning, lives worth living, experiences worth giving, and legacies worth leaving.
by Amy Sharp
ew year, new opportunities. Chad St. Jean has served as the Keller Williams Southwest (KWSW) Team Leader for more than a decade. Under Chad’s leadership, KWSW has grown and prospered. This year, as an Operating Partner at KWSW, Chad is expanding into new opportunities, and one of KWSW’s own, Jana Hayes, is taking over the reigns as Team Leader. Jana began her career at KWSW back in 2014. Jana says, “I knew no one back then. I’m from the Czech Republic, and I had no local contacts except my husband and his family. Behind the outstanding leadership, mentorship, tools, and resources here at KWSW, I found success in a short period of time.” That same year, Jana was named the KWSW Rookie of the Year. Today, 10 years later, Jana still holds the record for Rookie of Year GCI (gross commission income) at KWSW. By 2015, Jana was a KWSW Top Producing Agent and was awarded the “Top 20 under 40 Rising Star in Real Estate” award by the Houston Association of Realtors. That same year, she became a Productivity Coach (PC) for KWSW. Jana is credited with
building one of the most successful PC programs in the nation. In 2020, she was asked to take over as Team Leader at Keller Williams Signature in Katy. In three years, Jana grew that marketplace from 230 agents to 580. This year, the opportunity arose for Jana to return to KWSW as Team Leader. “I’m very grateful and honored to be back home,” smiles Jana. “This is where I started as a brand new agent. Everything I know, I learned from Chad and watching the many successful agents I’ve met and had the opportunity to get to know here at KWSW. I grew under their wing. Now, I want to lock arms with our agents and help them crush it in 2024 and beyond. Why? Because I’ve been there. I was once the new person here at KWSW, and I’m very passionate about coaching others into reaching their full potential.” “As Team Leader, I will continue the unique culture KWSW has to offer,” continues Jana. “Mentoring others into lives worth living and businesses worth owning. That’s what this is all about!” Interested in growing your career at KWSW? Visit kwsw.com/careers to learn more!
Interested in growing your career at KWSW?
Visit kwsw.com/careers to learn more!
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 “We give where we live.” KWSW.com provides comprehensive school, master planned communities, and neighborhood information on homes for sale in our hometown.
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Laugh and the world laughs with you, snore and you
sleep alone
by Amy Sharp ilent nights. Do they exist only in your daydreams? If snoring has driven you or your spouse to sleep on the couch, Dr. Thomas Lomonte, D.D.S. has the solution for you! Snore Guard® is an FDA-approved prescription solution that can bring back silent nights. Dr. Lomonte says, “As a dentist, I’ve seen the way jaw position impacts your airway. The Snore Guard® features Air Flow Technology™ that helps prevent the jaw from receding. The tongue then seeks out an opening between the upper and lower portion of the Snore Guard® instead of dropping back into the throat. The result? The airway stays open, and snoring is greatly reduced.”
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On the market since 1989, Snore Guard® enjoys a 95% reported success rate for reducing snoring according to the American Sleep Association. Dr. Lomonte says, “Whether you’re the one snoring or the one listening, you’re losing sleep. Fatigue can lead to headaches, concentration problems, hypertension, depression, and cardiac disease. Sleeping pills, earplugs and nose strips are all expensive attempts to treat the surface problem: the noise. But snoring starts with the position of your jaw and tongue at night. Snore Guard® has a proven track record, and it’s approved by the FDA. I want my patients to live long, healthy lives...and Snore Guard® can help!” It’s estimated that more than 90 million people in North America snore. A quick visit to Dr. Lomonte’s office on Murphy Road—where he’s practiced since 1982—fixes the issue in one visit. “We can custom-fit your Snore Guard® chair side,” says Dr. Lomonte, “without sleep studies or other delays. You may not have had silent nights for the holidays, but I’m confident we can get you back into your own bedroom this spring! Both you and your spouse will sleep in heavenly peace
from here on out.”
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
SNORE NO MORE
Hunter Douglas Showcase 281-342-9160 1575 Patton Road, Rosenberg, TX 77471 Mon-Fri 9-5 or anytime by appointment www.GrandWindows.com www.GrandWindows.net
Leap Into A Grand New Home Thursday, February 29th - 4:30 pm-7:30pm Candelario and Designer Caron Lopez invite you to drop by to see the new Grand Interiors & Window Fashion Hunter Douglas showcase and more. Discover new fabrics and receive special discounts…all while enjoying live music, bites and libations, and live painting. Special guests include locally owned Sara Appliance who will be showcasing a state-of-the-art range to explore. Attendees will also have the opportunity to visit with professional organizer, author, and speaker, Lisa Giesler. This is a can’t-miss, kid-friendly, free event! ©2024 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners.
12 ~ UPCLOSE ~ February 2024
To advertise, 281-235-0600
Next Stop...
Everyone Loves St. Michael’s!
by Amy Sharp
F
or 12 years and counting, I’ve been interviewing Fort Bend County residents and writing articles about local St. Michael’s Elite Hospital right here in UpClose Magazine. Consensus is: Everyone loves St. Michael’s! During this time, I’ve also had my own visits to St. Michael’s Elite Hospital. Once with a toddler whose tooth pierced through his lip during a fall. Another with a preteen with an extremely painful middle-of-the-night tummy issue. In each instance, St. Michael’s took us
back quickly, and they diagnosed and treated with great efficiency. This December, I landed back at St. Michael’s twice, both times with my 86-year-old father. Bringing in an individual who struggles to speak for himself and limitedto-no mobility truly showed me the passionate, personalized, and efficient care St. Michael’s Elite Hospital provides. During the first visit, I forgot to bring my Dad’s walker. He cannot stand at all without the walker, and even with it experiences great difficulty moving from wheelchair to bed and vice versa. I panicked when the St. Michael’s personnel needed him to move to the bed. But the anxiety was unwarranted. St. Michael’s brought in extra hands and a safety belt, and as a team they safely moved my dad to the bed (and back to his wheelchair at the conclusion of the visit). At both visits, we were taken to an exam room immediately, and Dad was seen by a physician
within minutes. In fact, I was still filling out paperwork during the examinations! Also in both instances, the doctor was able to treat quickly. We were finished in about an hour… immensely helpful, especially with an elderly patient. No time was wasted, and we weren’t trapped for hours in a waiting room filled with sick people. Instructions for follow-up care were provided to me before we left. St. Michael’s then went above and beyond by placing a call to the nurse at Dad’s assisted living facility to explain his follow-up care to the people that care for him daily. This phone call included an invitation for the facility to call St. Michael’s back anytime with questions. This tiny act of kindness–a simple phone call–was a huge relief for me in knowing everyone was on the same page for my father’s care. Would I take Dad back to St. Michael’s again if the need arises? Absolutely. St. Michael’s Elite Hospital was founded nearly 20 years ago by Dr. Shannon Orsak with a mission to provide excellent, holistic patient care in a timely manner. Today, under the leadership of CEO Diane Hutchings MS, RN, FAACM, CCM, that mission remains exactly the same. And as a result? Everyone loves St. Michael’s…including me!
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
Service, Quality,
or Price? by Amy Sharp
I
f you had to pick two, which two would you pick? Service and quality? Quality and price? Master Plumber Alan Burkhalter, founder of local Alan’s Plumbing, says, “Here at Alan’s Plumbing, we strive for all three!” Think about it this way: If you want a good meal, it takes some time to prepare and cook it. When you’re in a hurry, you might go to a fast food restaurant, but the food isn’t nearly as good as it could have been if freshly prepared. You may have spent a small amount of money, but it’s a relatively unappetizing meal. Alan says, “My guys and I have been doing plumbing work here in Fort Bend County for a long time. We’ve seen the work performed by ‘fast food’ contractors. The result is very similar to a lowquality meal, The price wasn’t that much less, and the quality is never as good.” A long time indeed. Back in the begin-
ning (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. Alan says, “A friend recently told me that he saw a plumber who does it all at rock bottom prices. His strategy? He purchases the materials for his jobs at a bargain store. My friend could not believe it. I laughed, because I could believe it. The boys and I have seen his work, and we’re often called in to repair it.”
14 ~ UPCLOSE ~ February 2024
To advertise, 281-235-0600
by Amy Sharp
“The truth is,” continues Alan, “people often forget how fast you did a job. But they do remember how well you did it, and they tell their friends. We strive to provide good work, and you’ve told your neighbors. For that, we thank you, Fort Bend County!” Get it right the first time. From plumbing emergencies and remodels to hot water heater installations, water pressure issues, and leaky pipes, choose quality, service, AND price. Choose local Alan’s Plumbing. Alan’s Plumbing
281-261-1064 License M-18995 RMP Alan Burkhalter
WWW.ALANS.PLUMBING
A GOOD
Working Relationship
With Your Contractor
V
by Amy Sharp
onia and her husband moved into their home project. When we remodeled back in 1991. “The house was built in the bathroom, I saw her 1983,” explains Vonia. “And up until 2019, every day. This time, if Your everything in it was original.” there was a day I didn’t That first remodel in 2019 was a bathroom. see her face-to-face, she Vonia had read about Teri Gilberg (better known always communicated by as The Re-Modelista) in UpClose magazine and text. Remodeling an older Specialist asked her to bid on the bathroom. “Teri was very home is not a perfect clear. She understood what I said, and she addressed science. There’s always it. Her pricing was very detailed. I knew exactly where surprises, and you and the my money was going. I believe it’s important to have a contractor have to adjust to get good, working relationship with your contractor, and I liked how to where you need to be. With Teri, it’s Teri and I worked together to get the bathroom done. In 2020, I a meeting of the minds. Teri understands got a quote for Teri to do our kitchen. This time, I did not get any what you want and need, and does the best other bids. That project got delayed due to Covid, but we finally that she can to give that to you. She does not got it done this year.” leave until the last little bit of what you want In Vonia’s kitchen, she believed she absolutely knew what she fixed is fixed.” wanted. “I wanted a light, Floridian kitchen with blue accents “My finished kitchen is really beautiful. It and shaker cabinets. Teri sent over samples, and I did not see a makes me so happy. I’m already planning to thing. I shopped her vendors, and still nothing stood out to me. have Teri remodel the other two bathrooms Then I was reading Architectural Digest one evening and saw when the time is right!” John Legend’s beautiful new home. His kitchen is slick and sleek with a European look. I told Teri to bring the samples back. I knew The Re-Modelista exactly what I wanted, and she had it! I wanted the sleek, clean Your Home Renovation Specialist wood cabinets the Legend home had. My countertops aren’t as Serving Fort Bend County For More Than 10 Years wild, but that kitchen was my inspiration!” 832-535-2501 • cell: 832-731-3191 “What I like about Teri the most is she personally monitors your www.theremodelista.com
&
Kitchen Bath
UPCLOSE ~ February 2024 ~ 15
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.
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