UpClose Sugar Land March 2023

TEXAS We’ll Take

Move Over Montana.

TEXAS

by Amy Sharp

Best Realtors in Texas...

The hit TV series Yellowstone tells the story of the Dutton family and their fight for the land in Montana. But perhaps lovable cowboy Jimmy is the character who gets it right. In season 4, Jimmy moves to Texas…where the land is plentiful, and the small town mentality that cowboys crave exists around every bend.

“I grew up here in Houston,” says local Keller Williams Southwest (KWSW) agent Sapana Patel. “Texas is a big place, and we have room for everyone! Our market is doing very well. Texas is now home to more than 50 Fortune 500 companies. We are the #1 location to move to. Real estate is booming, and we still have land.

There’s still time to buy in Texas.”

Located in the heart of Sugar Land, Keller Williams Southwest has been an integral part of this historic community for more than 30 years. Today, more than 600 KWSW agents service Fort Bend County and the Greater Houston Metro area, where Texas

dreams come true.

Why Fort Bend County? With a population of 806,497, Fort Bend County is one of the best places to live in Texas. There are tons of bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and parks, and most residents own their homes. The schools are top-rated, and the weather is outstanding. Fort Bend County enjoys a richness and diversity that’s rare. You can play here, work here, and eat here. “Agents at KW Southwest are local experts and active in the community,” says KWSW agent Sharon Parker. “We host plenty of open houses every weekend throughout Fort Bend.”

“I love that Fort Bend County is a satellite of one of the largest cities in the country,” says KWSW agent Kimbra Valachovic. “We can easily visit Houston to experience even more activities, like seeing our World Series Champions, the Houston Astros, play. Then we can go back home to the countryside. I grew up in Dallas. People cannot believe I’ve never moved back home. There’s a sense of community here

Israel Flores Shamsha Ali LaDonna Parker Winona Smith

Sapana Patel

Kimbra Valachovic

...and Therefore the World

that you just don’t get in Dallas. It’s a small town mentality with an international feel. In western parts of the county, you can experience the night sky. I love that. You just don’t get that everywhere.”

Keller Williams Southwest’s Agent Leadership Council (ALC) is composed of agents selected from the office Top 20%. The ALC gives agents a voice in the direction, culture, and growth of KWSW, serving as the foundation of the office. KWSW enjoyed a very successful 2022, with a total closed units of 3035 and a total closed volume of $890 million. KWSW agent Brad Countryman was awarded Rookie of the Year for 2022. The Rookie of the Year

award is in recognition of being the top rookie of the Market Center. It goes to the associate who is new in real estate and has completed his first twelve-month period in real estate during the calendar year with Keller Williams Southwest and had the highest closed sales volume. Brad’s outstanding momentum led him to being named the new KWSW Productivity Coach. Congratulations Brad!

Let Yellowstone and the Duttons duke it out in Montana. The place to be is right here in Texas, and no one knows the Fort Bend County landscape better than Keller Williams Southwest. How can KWSW help make your Texas dreams come true?

Pinky Pirani Sharon Parker Reema Malhorta Tosha Hypolite Karine D’Souza

Tonia Nicholas Brad Countryman

by Amy Sharp

Local BUGCO Pest Control owner

John Onofrey owned a home inspection company many years ago. John earned an outstanding reputation for providing thorough home inspection reports in a timely manner to potential home buyers and their real estate agents. Clients were so impressed, John kept getting a repeat request: Could he provide pest control too?

The people asked, and John answered. More than 10 years ago, John launched BUGCO Pest Control together with his friend, Chris Millward. Today, BUGCO Pest Control provides the full gamut of pest control services for both commercial and residential properties, including termite inspections and control. Chris says, “We’re very experienced in working with real estate agents…it’s where we got our start! Wooddestroying insect reports are now required for some home loans. We turn these reports around fast, usually within 24 hours of the inspection.”

If you weren’t aware, March is the beginning of termite swarming season…when winged termite adults fly away from their own colo-

Formosan termites are not native to Texas. They are believed to have been transported to the Houston Ship Channel in wood shoring timbers from China more than 70 years ago. Today, Formosan termites have been detected in 30 Texas counties. Yep, that means where you live too!

nies to create a new colony somewhere else, perhaps in your home. Subterranean termites swarm in the spring, and Formosan termites swarm closer to the beginning of summer. Chris says, “If your home is infested by ter-

mites, it’s important for us to first identify what kind of termites you have, because they’re not all treated the same way. Subterranean termites can be treated inground, but Formosan termites can create a cartridge nest in any structure, including inside your home. Termite ground treatment for Formosan termites would not be an effective approach.”

BUGCO Pest Control provides both active and preventive termite treatment plans. If you do see a swarm, don’t panic…ant swarms are also common this time of year. “Termite and ant swarmers are often confused for one another,” explains Chris. “So the proper diagnosis and treatment plan is important! Like termites, different ant species require different treatment methods. While fire ants make mounds in the yard, others like carpenter ants create colonies in trees and your house by excavating the wood to make smooth tunnels inside of the wood. But they don’t eat it like termites do, they chew through it to create nests. That is why having a trusted, local BUGCO Pest Control Specialist inspect your property is so important whether it’s termites or ants!”

Shrimp Fest is Back!

by Amy Sharp

Those who’ve lived in the area for a while have fond memories of it. Sugar Land Rotary Club’s Shrimp Fest was the family event of the year for many, many years. A night where moms and dads and kids of all ages came together for fun and games…and of course, delicious food.

Sugar Land Rotary President Marvin Marcell says, “Shrimp Fest dates back to 1989. In recent years, the club tried something else–something a little more sophisticated–but we lost the magic of Shrimp Fest. This year, by popular demand, we’re bringing it back. Shrimp Fest is a proven formula, a fabulous spirit that’s 33 years old!”

Shrimp Fest is Sugar Land Rotary’s largest fundraiser. The work force is all volunteer, and no funds are kept…100% of funds raised go back into our community. Marvin says, “Rotary supports various nonprofits throughout the area. We are unique in that we never only give dollars. We also provide volunteer hours to every organization we are involved with financially.”

Organizations supported by Sugar Land Rotary include Santa’s Exchange and the upcoming Sugar Land Arts Fest. You too can support these fabulous organizations and many more by coming out to Shrimp Fest and enjoying yourself. We can’t wait to see you all!

Sugar Land Rotary Club

www.sugarlandrotary.org

Saturday, April 15 ~ 5pm - 8pm

Location: Fluor Corporation

Meal tickets can be purchased in advance and at the door. Bring the entire family for a night of fun and games, peel-and-eat shrimp, and fried catfish. Hot dogs will be available for the littles. Live and bid board auctions include vacations, golf outings, and special dinner packages. Raffle Grand Prize is a whole house generator! Raffle tickets are $100 and include one meal ticket. They can be purchased from any Rotarian.

For meal tickets, raffle tickets, and general information, contact Scott Finley at 281-494-2884. For Shrimp Fest sponsorship opportunities, contact Marvin Marcell at 281-685-5504.

Sugar Land Rotary

President Marvin Marcell and his wife Debbie

A Service Department Filled With Kindness, Respect, and Personal Attention

Tonya Shultz has been a customer of the Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land service department for more than 15 years. She says, “They have always gone above and beyond to treat us like family. Eleven years ago, I was diagnosed with cancer. It was really challenging to go through treatment. But, life goes on…and I had to get my car serviced. As always, the service department team and David Alexander (Fixed Operations Director) recognized me, and they noted my physical changes. When they learned that I had cancer, they proceeded to go over the top to help me. I had three kids under five, and I needed to be separated from the general population. They cleaned the children’s area for me, and let me and my children have it to ourselves behind a closed door. The next time we came in for service, the children’s area was ready for us when we arrived. On the occasion that our car service took longer than a day, Classic Chevy got a loaner car ready for me and moved all my things from my car to the loaner for me. I was in a vulnerable state, and they treated me with such kindness. They were so careful around me and my kids.”

Ten years ago, Tonya’s daughter Ainsley attended Cookie University with the Girl Scouts. She was nervous and wanted to practice her spiel before going out to sell. Tonya says, “I suggested to Ainsley that we ask Mr. David if he would listen to her cookie pitch. Back then, there was a cookie called Thanks-A-Lot. In her cute, little girl voice, Ainsley told David the Thanks-A-Lot cookie would be a great gift to give to customers to say, ‘Thanks a lot!’ David and Classic Chevy Sugar Land have supported Ainsley and Troop 28248 every year since. This year, Ainsley drove the cookies to the dealership herself!”

Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land 13115 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-491-9000

www.classicchevysugarland.com

Classic Chevy Sugar Land and Classic Chevy HWY 6 are locally owned by Tiffany and Jeff Sebastian. “I 100% recommend the service department at Classic Chevy,” says Tonya. “They serve their customers with respect and personal attention. Our service provider Sanchez listens to my concerns, and he repeats them back to me for confirmation. Melissa at the desk is always a joy to visit! A big shout out to Melissa in the service department too! One of the things I love is how Classic keeps up with the maintenance needed and the proper timeline for work to be completed. Before a road trip, I always have Classic Chevy take a look at my car to ensure it’s road ready. People say it’s ‘scary’ to go to a dealer because they have a reputation for up-charging. I’ve never had that happen at Classic Chevy Sugar Land. I fully trust they are providing the best service for my family.”

Classic Chevrolet HWY 6 8100 HWY 6 South, Houston, TX 77083 281-201-1040

www.classicchevyhwy6.com

Jeff and Tiffany Sebastian Owners of Classic Chevrolet

Tonya Shultz

by Amy Sharp

It’s All About Family...

Way back in 1995, cousins Ziad Mukhaimer, Mohamed Naser, and Imad Mansour opened Lone Star Floors with one goal in mind: To give the best quality and experience possible.

“What that means,” says Mohamed, “is that we treat everyone that walks through these doors like family. When you work with us, you’re never just a number. It’s the same with our employees. Many have been with us since the beginning. Part of our family.”

If you have a vision for your kitchen, bath, or floors, Lone Star Floors has solutions. Don’t know what you want? They’ve got the advice, encouragement, and expertise you need. Ziad says, “I really enjoy the design process and love working with customers. I know there’s always new flooring stores popping up, but we believe that good work speaks for itself!”

For over 20 years, Lone Star Floors has been our one-stop-shop for carpet, tile, hardwood, laminate, countertops, lighting, and more. If you have floors, counters, tile, or lighting in your home, there’s only one store with three locations you need on speeddial: Lone Star Floors.

Lone Star Floors • 3 Locations

Sugar Land: 281-564-1345

10009 Highway 6 South Sugar Land, TX

Katy: 281-398-2319

873 South Mason Rd. #300 Katy, TX

Mouthguard With Braces?

Yes!

Woodlands: 832-813-0813

24627 I-45 North Suite # A

The Woodlands/Spring, Texas

by Amy Sharp

Does your braces-wearing child play contact sports? Athletes have a 35-56% chance of receiving an injury to the mouth during their career. In any situation, trauma to the mouth can cause lacerations, knocked out or displaced teeth, or fractures to teeth and or bone. An astounding 5 million teeth are knocked out annually during sport activities. During the course of a lifetime, the cost to replace one tooth–including appointments, maintenance, and surgeries–can be as high as $20K. Add braces to the mix, and the bands and brackets can cause additional trauma when they cut into your child’s mouth, lips, or gums.

“If your child wears braces and plays sports, a custom-made orthodontic mouthguard provided by your dentist is best,” explains Dr. Derek Steinbring of local Caldwell & Steinbring–Dentistry For Children. “Custom guards give the best protection because of the molded, custom fit.”

“Custom-fit mouthguards are made to fit over braces comfortably because they are fabricated to match the exact anatomy and structure of your child’s mouth,” continues Dr. Larry Caldwell. “These mouthguards allow room for the brackets to be unchanged upon impact and prevent lacerations in the mouth. A custom-made mouthguard should stay in its proper position without the need to bite down to

Not only are braces a financial investment, they’re also an investment in care and time by your child. Protect this investment by wearing a custommade orthodontic mouthguard while playing any kind of contact sport.

Questions about custom-fit mouthguards? Contact Caldwell & Steinbring–Dentistry For Children anytime. Drs. Caldwell and Steinbring are always happy to help!

keep it in place. It will outlast boil and bite guards by 5-1.”

Dr. Lance Campbell, Pharm.

D., R.Ph. developed a passion for compounding while he was a student at the University of Houston College of Pharmacy. Dr. Campbell says, “I realized then that compounding was on the cutting-edge of pharmacy. It had the capability of providing patients with so many alternatives to improve their quality of life.” Dr. Campbell became associated with Professional Compounding Centers of America while he was still in school. After graduating and working for several compounding pharmacies, Dr. Campbell opened the first Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy location in the Rice Village area in 2003. In 2007, Dr. Campbell opened his second location right here in Fort Bend County.

What is compounding? “It’s creating a personalized medication for an individu al patient,” explains Dr. Campbell. “We compound medications for many rea sons. We can make medications that are no longer mass produced, but you still need them. Many commercially manu factured medications contain lactose, preservatives, dyes, gluten, sugar, and a variety of other non-active ingredients. We can make medications without these ingredients for individuals who have an allergy, an intolerance, or simply a lifestyle that doesn’t include these fillers. We can also just make your medication easier to use! Medications for kids or pets can be flavored, and we can even change the dosage form. For example, an anti-nausea cream that’s rubbed on the inside of the wrist might be easier to keep down.”

This year, Dr. Campbell and Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy celebrate 20 years. Dr. Campbell’s wildly successful business plan is simple: Make patients the top priority. “I actually

by Amy Sharp

worked at a K-Mart pharmacy for a brief period while I wrote my business plan,” says Dr. Campbell. “I’m glad I did. It was then that I realized the retail pharmacy environment is seriously flawed. Why should patients be expected to wait 45 minutes to have one medication filled? I couldn’t accept that true customer service was a thing of the past, and I knew my compounding pharmacy would be very different. At Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy, my staff takes great pride in providing customer ser -

vice with a family feel.” While the staff at Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy always welcomes the chance to check in with you and see how you’re doing, they’re also happy to mail your medications free of charge.

“Thank you Fort Bend for your continued support,” says Dr. Campbell. “My promise to you is that we will always work hard to help your family feel their best. We look forward to many more years serving this community!”

Come in as a patient and leave as a friend!

A Big Texas smile

by Amy Sharp

ll lifelong Texans agree: Texans love Texas…and they’re not afraid to tell others. We take pride in being part of a large state with great food, a diverse culture, southern hospitality, and the fact that we were once an independent country. Native Texans and transplants alike know their identity comes with a badge of honor. Local dentist Dr. Thomas Lomonte is no different than the rest of us. “I’m proud to be a native Texan,” says Dr. Lomonte. “I grew up in Beaumont, received my undergraduate degree from Lamar University, and my Doctorate in Dental Surgery from the University of Texas Dental Branch in Houston. My kids were raised here, and since I’ve been practicing at this same location since 1982, I’m now seeing second and third generations of patients. It’s a wonderful feeling—a family feeling—when I watch patients grow up and then bring their own kids in to see me. At my office, southern hospitality is standard operating procedure. If experience has taught me anything, it’s that while knowing ‘how’ to do your job is certainly important...it’s getting to know your patients that truly makes the difference.”

Texas is known as the “Friendly State.” And a friend is exactly what you’ll find in Dr. Lomonte. He says, “I often have patients come to me who are afraid…because maybe they haven’t sat in a dental chair for twenty years. I love getting to know these patients, and showing them how stressfree modern dental care can be. No matter the procedure—whether you’re getting a root canal, some fantastic new advances in straightening like Invisalign, or even a cosmetic service like porcelain veneers—it’s virtually painless. When there’s nothing to stress out about, you can actually relax and maybe even have fun!”

Dr. Lomonte would like to extend a warm welcome to you and your family. “Your smile is my number one priority. I want it to be as big as Texas. How can I make you smile today?”

Wellness And Longevity

by Amy Sharp

Delmie DePuma-Aparicio, owner of local True Recovery Lymphatic Massage, has been studying and doing lymphatic drainage therapy for over 20 years. She says, “Research has shown that the lymphatic system is the key factor in longevity, disease prevention, and living a healthy and vital life. Yet, neither the research community nor the medical community (and certainly not the public!) know much about it.”

Our lymphatic system is the “Secret River of Health.” It operates daily in our bodies–virtually unnoticed–working closely with our immune system. Human beings have 600-700 lymph nodes spread throughout the body. Most of them are in the area of our intestines (abdominal area), our neck and head, inguinal (groin), and axillary (arm pits). Lymphatics is where our daily “life and health” battles are won or lost. If the body is compromised in any way, due to trauma, disease, stress, or surgery of any kind, our lymphatic system slows down and does not work smoothly and properly. The body is not getting the vital lymph fluid it needs to heal itself.

How can one improve lymphatic flow in the body? “Unlike the circulatory system, the lymph does not have a pump,” explains Delmie. “It relies on muscle movement to move fluid. This is where lymphatic massages can impact one’s health, wellness, and longevity. Unlike regular massages that focus on the muscles, lymphatic drainage massage therapy uses

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

light pressure and rhythmic movements to encourage lymph drainage and flow. Lymphatic massages help get the lymph flowing to a healthier state and improve the body’s ability to fight injury, infection and disease. By improving lymphatic flow, your body is better able to clear out waste products, toxins, and clean up the dysfunction that causes injury, imbalance, inflammation, and disease. A healthy lymphatic system has a role in preventing and decreasing not only cancer, but heart disease, brain problems, gastrointestinal issues, and much more.”

“Lymphatic massage for longevity and well-being is becoming the therapy the public is needing for healing and long life,” says Delmie.

“The first step is to schedule a consultation. Together we’ll develop a customized treatment plan that maximizes your body’s ability to heal. I can’t wait to meet you!”

“Teri is as invested in your project as you are.”

After Teri Gilberg (better known as The Re-Modelista) did some work in Henry’s sister’s home, Henry knew Teri was the contractor to do his kitchen and master bathroom. “I didn’t seek out any other bids,” says Henry. “I went directly to Teri. The work she did at my sister’s house spoke for itself.”

Henry’s remodel included new cabinets, countertops, lighting, and an undermount sink in the kitchen. In the master bathroom, he wanted the shower completely redone, bringing it down to the studs and installing new tile. The master bathroom would receive all new cabinets and countertops, Henry also wanted the facing on the jet tub refinished.

“Regarding design and colors, I had no idea what I wanted,” explains Henry. “Some ideas I borrowed from my sister, and I also used several of Teri’s recommended vendors. I actually spent a couple months figuring out exactly what I wanted. Teri’s vendors were very helpful in pointing me to certain things, and the design came together. I’d see a color or tile and think, “Yes, that’s the one. There it is.”

Henry works from home. “All things considered, the project went very well,” continues Henry. “Teri and her team were very considerate of the fact that I was working, and how difficult it was to have people in the house from a work perspective. Teri popped in almost daily to check on things, and her communication was excellent. In the past, when I’ve dealt with contractors, lack of communication

by Amy Sharp

was my biggest frustration. Communication is so important, and Teri has it down really well. There’s nothing you can’t ask her. She’s on top of things and provides a project update every evening. You never have to wonder when they’re coming, or what time they’ll be here. I found her time and budget estimates to be spot on. In the budget, there were areas that she recommended I allow room just in case the materials cost extra. She worked hard to make it so there were no surprises. Not being surprised, especially by extra cost, is awesome! Teri is as invested in your project as you are.”

“I love my finished kitchen and master bathroom,” says Henry. “I absolutely recommend Teri. She’s great!”

HEAD OUR WAY

Dr. Shannon Orsak with St. Michael’s CEO/CNO Jessica Rivas

by Amy Sharp

March is Brain Injury Awareness Month, and the Texas Health and Human Services Department is working to bring attention to the issue. “Each year, 144,000 Texans get a brain injury from things like falls or crashes or medical conditions like a stroke,” explains Christine Medeiros, Texas Health and Human Services Department Brain Injuries Program Manager. “Here in Texas, we also see a higher number of brain injuries from car crashes. Through this campaign, we hope to lower these numbers.”

If it happens to you–if a loved one experiences any type of head injury–do not let your loved one fall asleep and head immediately to local St. Michael’s Elite Hospital for a professional medical evaluation. St. Michael’s CEO/CNO Jessica Rivas says, “Skull fractures, concussions, posttraumatic migraines, chronic headaches, and more…we treat them all. Our highly rated facility is fully equipped to provide CT scans, X-rays, and top-tier services to diagnose and treat a variety of head injuries.”

Dr. Shannon Orsak and his brother Brian opened St. Michael’s Elite Hospital as a standalone emergency room back in 2007. That facility was Sugar Land’s very first free-standing ER. In 2019, St. Michael’s expanded to include inpatient hospital services.

Not only does St. Michael’s have the qualified staff and the necessary equipment to treat a head injury, your loved one will also be seen immediately upon arrival. “We guarantee a wait time of five minutes or less in our comfortable, spa-like lobby before admission to a private examination room,” explains Jessica. “With diagnostic testing onsite, our team gets results quickly and discusses the findings with you. We then provide treatment recommendations to manage your head injury, which

Next Stop... St. Michael’s Elite Hospital 16000 SW Freeway (at Hwy 6), Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-980-HELP (4357)

Fun Facts About The Brain

• The myth that we only use 10% of our brain is false. We use all of it, and more than 10% is used while you sleep.

• When you’re awake, your brain generates about 12-25 watts of electricity…enough to power a small light bulb!

may include admission to our inpatient unit. If you do require admittance to our hospital, you won’t wait longer than 30 minutes for an inpatient bed. Otherwise, our team sends you on your way and recommends you follow up with your primary care provider for additional care and treatment.”

At St. Michael’s Elite Hospital, the doors stay open 24/7, 365 days a year. Dr. Orsak says, “In every emergency, head our way. We’re here to help at any time!”

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.”

• About 75% of your brain is made up of water, so dehydration, even in small amounts, can negatively affect how your brain functions.

Drain

The Main

As a homeowner, there’s a good chance you know your way around some common plumbing tools–including plungers, liquid drain cleaners, and maybe even a plumber’s snake–to deal with clogged sinks or toilets. These types of clogs rarely need the expertise of a licensed plumber. However, if you find yourself plunging your toilets and sinks more frequently than you think you should, you might have a blocked main sewer line.

Simply put, the main line is the line that runs beneath your yard. It carries wastewater from your house and dumps it into your septic tank or the municipal sewer system. A blocked main line is a major plumbing problem. “This is a problem you should not attempt to fix yourself,” explains Master Plumber Alan Burkhalter, founder of local Alan’s Plumbing. “Here are some indicators that you might have a clogged main line. If you experience any of these, give a plumber a call ASAP!”

Gurgling. If you hear gurgling from your sink or toilet, that’s a sign that something is amiss with your main line. As clogs build within the line and the water is trying to drain, it can cause bubbling or gurgling sounds.

Drains run slowly. Oftentimes, a drain may run slowly because of a small clog such as hair in the bathtub…these are easy to remove. However, if several of the drains in your home are running slowly, that’s a symptom of a clogged main line.

Foul odor. If your drains smell bad and you haven’t put anything particularly odorous down the sink or garbage disposal, that could be a sign of a clogged main line.

What causes a clogged main sewer line?

“Most of the time, it’s flushing inappropriate items (like feminine hygiene products and disposable diapers) down the toilet, tree root infiltration, or the age and condition of the pipes. Our team can repair your clogged main line by locating the clog and determining what caused it. We

by Amy Sharp

have access to rooters, hydro-jetting, and commercial-grade chemicals to dislodge the clog. If the tree roots have grown into the pipes, it may be necessary to excavate your yard to repair the pipes…and if necessary, have the tree removed.”

Alan’s licensed team includes his brother Chris and his son Luke, both of whom are also Master Plumbers. Alan’s son Beau is journeyman-licensed and studying for his master plumber license. His son Jake is an apprentice close to his journeyman license. Journeyman-licensed plumber Jaime, tradesman-licensed Trevor, and plumbing apprentice Christian complete this local plumbing team.

If you suspect you may have a clogged main sewer line, get in touch with Alan’s Plumbing right away. The longer you wait, the worse the clog will get, and the more expensive it can be to repair.

DEAR SUGAR LAND

My

name is Kaushi Shah.

I grew up in Chicago. I moved to Sugar Land more than 25 years ago when I married my husband Arjun. I love it here. The weather is nice, the area is diverse, and the people are friendly. Our two children, Anjali and Ankit, are both graduates of Clements High School. I feel Sugar Land is more my home now than Chicago.

At Clutch City Insurance, I help individuals like you select their Medicare options. Today, there are so many new Medicare companies and plans out there! If you have Medicare, you could be missing out on extra benefits like groceries, utilities, and even insulin at a lower (or no!) cost to you. I can help you make sure you are tapping into all the extra benefits. If you’re employed, I can assist you in analyzing premiums and copayments to determine if Medicare is right versus your employer coverage. My passion is making sure your coverage is right for your situation.

I’m deeply involved in the Indian community, and I speak both Hindi and Gujarati. If you have any questions at all about Medicare, please give me a call. I’m always happy to help!

Contact Kaushi now at 832.282.3515. kaushi97@gmail.com | www.ccihou.com

DENTAL Health: Pro Tips for Parents

The Best Way to Treat a Cavity? Prevent It From Happening!

by Amy Sharp

We know it, and our kids know it: The most effective way to prevent cavities is regular brushing and flossing. But even with proper oral hygiene, some children may develop cavities. If left untreated, tooth decay can lead to dental pain and loose teeth. In some cases, children may even experience tooth loss. Dr. Faisal M. Khan, founder of local Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental, says, “Fortunately, today we have access to additional cavity prevention services that are both effective and simple to administer.”

The first is dental sealants. “Dental sealants are thin coatings that protect teeth from debris and bacteria that can cause cavities,” explains Dr. Khan. “For kids especially, it can be difficult to thoroughly clean the uneven surfaces of the back teeth with a toothbrush. A sealant forms a hard shield that keeps food and bacteria from getting into the tiny grooves in the teeth and causing decay. Getting a sealant is easy, and it does not hurt. We simply clean and dry the tooth, and then the sealant is painted onto the tooth enamel, where it bonds directly to the tooth and hardens. Piece of cake.”

“A fluoride varnish is an even simpler cavity prevention measure,” continues Dr. Khan. “After a routine cleaning and check up, we paint a fluoride varnish onto the front, back, top, and bottom of the teeth. It forms a sticky covering over the tooth and becomes hard as soon as the saliva in the mouth touches it. Fluoride varnishes come in several great tasting flavors…we’ll ask your child to choose his or her favorite!”

The team of dentists at Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental includes Dr. Khan, Dr. Priyanshi Ritwik, and Dr. Annie Zheng. 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. Dr. Khan says, “We always strive to help children grow up with healthy teeth. With early intervention and preventive services like dental sealants and fluoride varnish, children will have fewer oral health issues as an adult. Taking care of little teeth early is truly worth the effort.”

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

THE ALL-NATURAL, HEALING ALTERNATIVE

by Amy Sharp

At local Balanced Body Functional Medicine, Dr. Julia Ward offers all-natural oxygen therapy. Dr. Ward says, “The hyperbaric oxygen chamber is great for anything from long Covid to autoimmune disorders to IBS to brain injuries. The nice thing is, you don’t have to pick…it’s going to do it all for you.”

Going into a hyperbaric oxygen chamber feels a little bit like going into a mini submarine. “You have a mask on, and you’re breathing 100% oxygen,” explains Dr. Ward. “The pressure is increased all around you using room air, forcing all that oxygen deep into your tissues. Oxygen is the ingredient our bodies need for growth and repair. Plus, after a certain number of hours, it will stimulate your own stem cells.”

The chambers at Balanced Body Functional Medicine are large, medical-grade, steel-sided chambers that go up to 2.2 atmospheres. By comparison, the home, soft-sided, zip-up models found in some medspas only go up to 1.3 atmospheres. “We see exponentially better results with the medical-grade chambers, and they’re extraordinarily safe. Someone can get out themselves within five minutes.”

Balanced Body Functional Medicine is also the only practice in the Houston area offering the more aggressive ozone therapy: oxygen dialysis. Dr. Ward explains, “O3 kills pathogens on contact, revs up your immune system, decreases inflammation, and increases energy production. We set an IV in both arms. The blood is pumped out by a dialysis machine, and the ozone is added directly to the blood. We also run the blood through a UV machine to further remove pathogens. Then the blood is pumped back into the other arm. It takes about an hour. I recommend oxygen dialysis for the acutely sick, those suffering from long Covid, and those

Balanced Body Functional Medicine

with a vaccine injury. You’ll feel immediately better.” For pediatric patients and those with small veins, Dr. Ward offers direct IV ozone therapy, where a small syringe of ozone is injected directly into the vein with a tiny needle.

To learn more about oxygen therapy and which option is best for you, contact Balanced Body Functional Medicine. It’s safe, it’s all natural, and it’ll get you on the road to feeling better!

COMPLEX NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS Treated in Sugar Land

At Houston Methodist Neuroscience & Spine Center at Sugar Land, our physicians collaborate across specialties to diagnose and treat common to complex neurological disorders. With innovative and advanced treatment options, we provide personalized comprehensive care — close to home.

Our team of physicians treats a variety of conditions, including:

• Alzheimer’s disease and memory disorders

• Aneurysms

• Brain tumors

• Multiple sclerosis

• Neuropathy

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• Parkinson’s disease and tremors

• Sleep disorders

• Spinal disorders

• Stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA)

TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

To schedule an appointment, scan the QR code, visit houstonmethodist.org/neuro-sl or call 281.274.7979.