UpClose SL Magazine - October 2023

BOOT SCOOTIN’ GOOD TIME

The Finest and Bravest Foundation of Sugar Land is proud to announce the first annual Red & Blue United – A Sugar Land First Responders Tribute. This event is the merger of two great fundraisers–Back The Blue and the Firefighters Gala–into one to raise funds and awareness for all of Sugar Land’s first responders: police, fire, and EMS.

Back The Blue was created in 2017 by entertainment specialist, Gary Becker. Gary says, “Working in entertainment, I got to know many police officers. When you get to know them, you have a new respect for them. You see them as people. At Red & Blue United, you’ll have the opportunity to meet some of our first responders and look through their equipment. Our hope is that like me, the community will better understand these individuals and see them on a different level.”

The Firefighters Gala was created two years ago by Sugar Land City Councilmember Suzanne Whatley. Former Sugar Land Mayor Jimmy Thompson and his wife Gay were the honorary chairs at the inaugural event. Today, Jimmy is excited to serve on the advisory board for Red & Blue United together with Gary. “This is a great event for the City of Sugar Land,” says Jimmy. “We really appreciate all of the community support.”

BOOT SCOOTIN’ GOOD TIME

Aaron Watson To Kick Off Sugar Land’s First Annual Red & Blue United

The featured entertainer at this year’s Red & Blue United is Texas’ own Aaron Watson. Not only has Watson had a long history of sold-out shows across the country, but he has also found a lasting place on country radio…no small feat for an artist without the promotion machine of a major record label. His 2015 release, Underdog, made him the first independent male artist to debut at Number One on the Billboard Top Country Albums Chart with a self-released, independently distributed and promoted album. And another five album releases have cracked the Top Ten. His show at The Smart Financial Centre will feature all of his charttopping singles as well as hits from his latest release, Unwanted Man. Fans will witness why Forbes calls him “one of country music’s biggest DIY success stories.”

Presenting Sponsor for this year’s Red & Blue United is The West Law Firm. The event is co-chaired by KK and Scott West and Debbie and Marvin Marcell. Sponsorships are sold out, but limited individual tickets for the Aaron Watson concert are still available. Gary says, “Parking is free, and you pay no taxes on the tickets. All proceeds benefit The Finest and Bravest Foundation of Sugar Land, a 501(c)(3) organization. We’ll see you there!”

Back L-R: Police Capt. Chris Thompson, Sugar Land City Fire Marshall James Serrano, Vice President Gary Becker, Treasurer James “Jimmy” Thompson, Co-Chair Marvin Marcell, Co-Chair Scott West Front L-R: Police Chief Mark Poland, Fire Chief Doug Boeker, Fire Lt. Scott Bowerman, President Suzanne Whatley, Co-Chair Debbie Marcell, Co-Chair KK West

Story by Amy Sharp

Making OUR Community A Better Place

by Amy Sharp

Did you know that with more than 20,000 combined reviews, local Aga’s Restaurant is the highest rated South Asian restaurant in the United States?

Opened in 2001 and bought by the Maredia family in 2011, this Indian-Pakistani restaurant is a household name among the South Asian population. Walk into the restaurant, and the clientele is as diverse as Fort Bend County. The cuisine is so popular, Aga’s has a seating capacity of 700+…and those 700+ seats are filled every single weekend. The menu is 100% Zabiha Halal and is filled with fresh and delicious vegetarian and nonvegetarian dishes. Aga’s success stems from family and friends recommending the restaurant to co-workers and anyone visiting from anywhere. “We serve all customers with the utmost respect, no matter who you are,” explains Shaukat Maredia. “Hospitality is our specialty. We know you’ll be happy and have a great experience here.”

Through Aga’s Restaurant, Shaukat and his brothers are invested in making our community a better place. It starts with the Aga’s staff, some of whom have been at Aga’s since the beginning. “I realize we would not be this successful if our staff did not enjoy being here,” says Shaukat. “They take so much pride in working here. My late father was very generous to the staff and always appreciated them. We’ve extended that generosity and appreciation, helping out with whatever our staff needs, as my office is always open to them.” That care extends into our community. The Aga’s annual scholarship program is open to all Texas graduating high school seniors. In 2023, Aga’s awarded $25,000 in scholarship funds to ten students. Each year, Aga’s also sets aside a

percentage of profits for charity. “Churches, mosques, temples, and other nonprofits reach out when there is a need. It’s such a great feeling to help our neighbors.”

The Aga’s Restaurant menu includes grilled goat chops, biryanis, sizzling platters, curries and more. Shaukat says, “We process our own meat, ensuring the proper temperature, cut, and a quality product. For individuals new to our restaurant, I often recommend the goat chops or chicken lollipops. I guarantee you’ll like them! But if you’re still not sure what to order, our staff is always very helpful. They’ll walk through what you like and help you make a selection. You’ll have a really good meal without breaking the wallet!” Aga’s offers carry-out and delivery exclusively through UberEats. Have a special celebration coming up? Aga’s Restaurant caters events of any size in their two beautiful banquet halls. Party trays and full-service, onsite catering are also available. Shaukat says, “We staff your catering, from setup to serving appetizers, drinks, and desserts, to take down. We’ll make sure your celebration is extra special.”

Open seven days a week, 365 days a year, the #1 Indian and Pakistani restaurant in the country is right here in our backyard. Check it out today!

Use it or lose it.

When You’ve Already Paid For It, You Should Use It!

by Amy Sharp

Don’t you hate it when you pay for your groceries but forget to put them in the car? Wait a minute…you would NEVER do this! But maybe you’re doing the very same thing with your dental benefits. Dr. Thomas Lomonte, DDS in Stafford says, “Each year, millions of people allow their dental benefits to go to waste. If you’re paying your dental insurance premiums every month, you should be using your benefits.”

“Premiums, yearly maximums, deductibles and the certainty that dental problems will worsen are all extremely important reasons to maximize utilizing your dental benefits,” continues Dr. Lomonte. “Even if you don’t require treatment, regular cleanings are proven to help prevent and detect early signs of cavities, gum disease and other dental problems.” When you do need treatment, nearly all plans have a yearly maximum, which is the absolute most money your plan will pay in a calendar year. But unused money does not rollover and is lost January 1st.

“Delaying dental treatment today puts you at risk for more expensive and extensive dental work down the road,” says Dr. Lomonte. “Plus, if you’ve already had some

work done this year, chances are you have met your deductible…so it pays to have the additional work done before year end. Like the yearly maximum, the deductible also resets on January 1.” As an added bonus, health flexible savings account money can be used to pay for your portion of any dental work. Like dental plans, FSAs are “use it or lose it.”

From parents to kids to grandparents, Dr. Lomonte has been everyone’s family dentist since 1982. Call Dr. Lomonte today to schedule an appointment. If you require treatment, Dr. Lomonte and his team will walk you through the options and help you pick the treatment that works best for your mouth, your smile, your schedule, and your benefits plan. With that beautiful smile, you can be confident that you’re not walking out of 2023 with money left on the table!

REPIPE

by Amy Sharp

To Avoid A Burst

Does brown-tinted water come out of your faucets? Are your sinks and shower heads releasing water at an abnormally low pressure? Have you noticed any leaks? Water spots?

“These are the first signs that it may be time to replace the pipes in your home,” says Master Plumber Alan Burkhalter, founder of local Alan’s Plumbing.

If your home was built before 1980, it likely has galvanized pipes. The brown water that is coming out of your faucets is most likely caused by rust on the inside of your pipes. And if you notice low water pressure from your faucets and shower heads or leak spots on your walls or ceiling, the corrosion in your pipes has eaten its way through the pipe, creating pinholes for water to escape. If you want to know for sure whether or not your pipes are rusting, you can go into your attic and look for brown or reddish rust spots on the water pipes in your attic.

Alan says, “It’s not a question of if these pipes will spring a major leak…they most cer-

tainly will at some point. And with winter on its way and possible freezing temperatures, these pipes are extra susceptible to bursting. But you don’t have to wait for damage to occur to remedy this problem. We can repipe your house, installing new PEX pipe on all of your supply lines before any flooding occurs.”

PEX pipe is made from cross-linked HDPE (high density polyethylene). The HDPE is melted and continuously extruded into a tube to form a high-performing pipe. This pipe will expand if frozen and contract to its original shape when thawed. PEX pipe is clean and rust free. This means it doesn’t corrode, and will not contaminate the water it’s moving and holding. No corrosion also results in an increase in water pressure. And because they do not burst, some insurance companies offer breaks to homes with PEX piping. Alan says, “When we repipe your home with PEX pipe, we haul away all of the pipe we remove. And, as always, whether we replace your fixtures or not, every supply line shut-off valve is changed. For every

job we do, our aim is to leave everything in perfect working condition.”

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 Nick, with Jennifer running the back office and longtime family friend Katie as the voice behind the phones.

If your home still has galvanized pipes, right now is a great time to consider repiping with PEX pipe. “Don’t wait until they burst to take action,” says Alan. “Call us today for a pipe inspection.”

One team One focus YOU

F CUS Nothing Scary Here! Medications Made Just Right.

Dyes and preservatives and allergens…oh my! If you find the ingredients in your family’s medications downright scary, local Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy has a solution for you.

Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy founder Dr. Lance Campbell, Pharm.D., R.Ph says, “Most pills and capsules, whether over-the-counter or prescription, include components other than the actual drug. These compounds, known as ‘inactive ingredients,’ help to stabilize the drug or aid in its absorption, and they can make up more than half of a pill’s mass. However, if you’re extremely sensitive to one of the ‘inactive ingredients,’ it’s anything but ‘inactive’ for you. Commercially manufactured medications commonly contain small amounts of lactose, gluten, dyes, preservatives, sugar, and other possible problematic ingredients. From allergies and intolerance to diets and lifestyle, there are a variety of reasons individuals avoid many of these items.”

“Here at Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy, we can custom make the medication you need without the problematic ingredient(s),” continues Dr. Campbell. “You won’t be scared to take a medication or administer a medication to your child for fear of what it may contain. Even better, the medicine is made in the exact dosage required, and we can also make it easier to use. Have you ever held down a toddler to squirt bitter Augmentin into their mouth? A compounding pharmacist can flavor many medications, making them more palatable without losing their

by Amy Sharp

effectiveness. Very handy for children, elderly patients, and even pets! We can also compound your medicines in different dosage formats…like an anti-nausea cream that’s rubbed on the inside of the wrist so your kids can keep it down.”

The team at Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy includes Dr. Omar Alkazzaz, Dr. Danny Thai, and Dr. Lisa Mathew. Dr. Campbell says, “Everyone here takes great pride in providing customer service with a family feel. We love getting to know our families, and we’d love to get to know you. Wishing you all a safe, not-too-scary Halloween!”

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

Welcome to The Future of Wellness

by

At local Dry Eye & Wellness Center, Dr. Faheem Inayatali has created a wellness retreat under medical supervision. Treatment options include IV therapy, intramuscular injections, NormaTec compression therapy, testosterone replacement, color vision, bio-nutritional scanning, and more.

Need to re-energize or hydrate? Dr. Faheem says, “IV therapy delivers a powerhouse of minerals and vitamins directly into the bloodstream. It’s effective for fatigue, stress, frequent illness, imbalanced hormones, excess toxins, and dull skin. For those with vein sensitivity, we also offer intramuscular injections. Since the muscles have a rich blood supply, intramuscular injections allow the nutrients to be delivered into the bloodstream quickly.”

Today’s athletes love NormaTec compression therapy. Dr. Faheem says, “This is a cutting-edge medical device that harnesses the power of pulsed dynamic compression to enhance athlete recovery. It offers a deep, massagelike sensation which improves blood circulation and relieves muscle soreness…essential for healing the body.”

Are you a male experiencing sexual, physical, or emotional changes? “Decreased libido, increased body fat, and feelings of sadness or depression are just a few of the many symptoms of low testosterone,” explains Dr. Faheem. “Our testosterone replacement therapy delivery methods include topical or nasal gels, injections, a patch, or surgically implanted pellets. Our medical team will guide you in choosing the right therapy to gain back your strength, virility, and confidence.”

Finally, at Dry Eye & Wellness Center, Dr. Faheem focuses on all things eyes, including specialized care

for dry eye, myopia care, and other difficult-to-solve eye health problems. Two state-of-the-art optical wellness options offered include Color My World glasses and bio-nutritional scanning. Color My World glasses allow colorblind individuals an opportunity to greatly widen their range of color perception. Bio-nutritional scanning tests the macular pigment optical density (MPOD) of the eye. Dr. Faheem explains, “This is a noninvasive way to know the lutein and zeaxanthin levels in your eyes. The results will give us information about your risk for developing eye health problems. We’ll be able to see if we need to take action so that you can have healthier eyes!”

Welcome to the future of wellness! Schedule a free consultation with a Dry Eye & Wellness specialist today. Dr. Faheem says, “We’ll get you on the path to a healthier and revitalized life.”

Amy Sharp Dr. Faheem Inayatali

by Amy Sharp

It’s Truck Season at Classic Elite

Does timing matter when it comes to buying a new truck? The short answer is yes. While waiting for the right time to make your purchase can take some strategizing–and some patience–you’ll feel much better when you get the best price possible on your new truck.

In order to make its trucks available to more people and show off its engineering innovations, Chevy has dedicated this season to all things pickups. If you love trucks for their design, their strength, or their help on a work site, you should be excited about truck season at local Classic Elite.

The Chevy Silverado 1500 pickup’s capacity

for hard work is hereditary, an integral part of its family DNA. For generations, Chevy’s fullsize pickup truck has been working on ranches, getting dirty at construction sites, and hauling boats to lake houses…and nothing’s changed about that today. The current production Silverado 1500 handles work and playtime duties with a wide range of powertrain options, including a turbo four-cylinder, two V-8s, and a Duramax diesel. Classic Elite owners Tiffany and Jeff Sebastian say, “When it comes to fuel efficiency, this is not your dad’s pickup truck. This vehicle is 14% more fuel efficient than the average full-size truck’s 22 MPG.”

The local Classic Elite family of dealerships includes Classic Elite Chevy Sugar Land,

Classic

on

6, and Classic Elite

GMC on the

Freeway. Tiffany says, “If you’ve been patiently waiting to purchase the #1 truck in the country, this season you’re in for a real treat. Our available inventory is huge, and qualified buyers could be eligible to purchase a 2023 Chevy Silverado for as little as 0% APR with no monthly payments for the first 90 days. At our dealerships, we take pride in providing our customers with an elite, red carpet dealer experience. We’ll help you find the right ride for your needs. We can’t wait to get you behind the wheel of a powerful pickup of your very own this season. Let’s schedule your test drive today!”

Elite Chevy

Hwy

Buick

Katy

Nicole and Tommy Marino’s Story

by Amy Sharp

When Nicole and Tommy Marino’s family started to outgrow their home, Nicole reached out to Keller Williams Southwest (KWSW) agent Audra

O’Neal to help find a larger house. Nicole says, “I knew Audra was a very successful agent in our neighborhood. I described to Audra what I was looking for, and asked her to let me know if something came up. I did not want to put our home on the market until we found something…I didn’t want to be in a position where I was forced to find something.”

After finding what they thought was the perfect home, Nicole and Tommy put their current house on the market. Nicole says, “As we worked through the process, the price of the home we were buying became unrealistic. Audra thought they were asking too much, and she told me we were not overpaying. She’s a bulldog when it comes to negotiations. We ended up with multiple offers on our current home, and nowhere to go…the situation I had tried to avoid! I remember driving around the neighborhood desperate to find a home. There was a specific floor plan I was hoping to get, but none had come up on the market. Then I drove by a home with that floor plan and saw it was being flipped. I stopped and stepped inside. I called Audra and

said, ‘You’re not going to believe this, but I found the house.’ Audra came over immediately, and we walked it. Then Audra told the flippers to stop. This was the house. Again, she was a bulldog in negotiations. The inspection revealed a lot of issues. Audra decided how much should be taken off the price, and she made it happen.”

When the Marinos were looking for a 2nd home in Galveston, they contacted Audra again. “It was during a time when the market was crazy,” explains Nicole. “Nothing was on the market for long. My husband was with Audra in Galveston looking at homes when a friend who also has a home down there sent me a screenshot of a house ‘For Sale By Owner.’ Audra and Tommy went to the house immediately. The owners were sitting outside, and Audra asked them if they could look at the house. Tommy was so embarrassed! But the couple asked for a few minutes to clean up, and then let them in. That ended up being the house! Again, Audra went to bat for us in a bidding war. She does not back down when something is not right. Audra gets it done, and she’s also very kind and lovable. We’ve become friends, and I highly recommend her.”

Audra spent 10 years with Fort Bend Junior Service League where she worked the bar at Sugar Plum Market. This year, The Audra O’Neal Team is the front bar sponsor at Sugar Plum. Thank you Audra for your commitment to our community!

KW Agent Audra O’Neal

Next Stop...

Another World

Dad was in heart failure. There was so much fluid, and they needed to get it out. They could start right away, and dad would have to be admitted for observation. I panicked because I thought that they were sending him somewhere else. But I was wrong, they could admit dad at St. Michael’s. I was incredibly relieved, and it was not an ordeal to move from the acute ER room to a hospital room. It was actually seamless and quick, with no redundancy in paperwork and excellent communication between the staff. St. Michael’s is another world compared to traditional hospitals!”

by Amy Sharp

Compared To Traditional Hospitals

Local Reverend Fouzi Khawaja is 94 years old. He’s been married to his lovely wife Susan for 57 years. Reverend Khawaja suffers from Parkinson’s Disease. His chronic illness is managed by his doctor.

Reverend Khawaja’s daughter, Ruthy, says, “We have never had to take dad to the ER or urgent care. We always just call his doctor! Dad is the elder in our family. We planned a special week for him, where nieces and nephews and other relatives from all over the United States were coming to visit him on different days. Dad was on top of the world. He’s the strong one, the wise one…the one we receive guidance from.”

By Friday of his special week, Reverend Khawaja was starting to lose his voice. Ruthy says, “He also had more stiffness and swelling in his legs than usual. By Saturday, I started to hear him gurgling with his breathing…it sounded like he was underwater. We called his doctor. The clinic was closed since it was the weekend, but they tried to dispatch home health for a chest x-ray. Unfortunately, home health was fully booked.”

Ruthy and her siblings were unsure what to do. They knew their dad would not want to leave his guests. They also knew he needed medical attention, but the long wait in a traditional ER paired with their dad’s mobility issues plus potential exposure to germs sounded daunting. Then, Ruthy remembered St. Michael’s Elite Hospital, founded by local physician, Dr. Shannon Orsak. “I remembered it being nice and quiet. So we took dad there. He was taken back in short order, triaged, and seen by a physician. They did the chest x-ray and bloodwork.

By mid-afternoon the next day, Reverend Khawaja was ready to go home. Ruthy says, “Dad was able to shower and get dressed at St. Michael’s. He felt good before going back home to his guests. We made the right decision by going to St. Michael’s. When we followed up with his doctor at KelseySeybold the following week, I told him St. Michael’s is a great option for the elderly when the clinic is closed, because it removes the challenges, obstacles, and risks that come with taking a 94–yearold with Parkinson’s and mobility issues to a traditional emergency room. St. Michael’s made this process positive, seamless, and remarkable!”

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.”

This month, Monte’s Tastes + Taps celebrates its one year anniversary! “We opened last year during the Astros playoffs,” says owner Braden Lomonte. “We’re your neighborhood, family-friendly sports bar. Making everyone feel welcome is our specialty.”

Monte’s Tastes + Taps is not only located just down the sidewalk from Lomonte’s Italian Restaurant, it’s an extension of Lomonte’s. Braden says, “My family opened the first Lomonte’s Italian Restaurant in Houston in 1986. In 2006, I opened our location here to be Fort Bend’s neighborhood Italian place. At Monte’s Tastes + Taps, we offer the same great quality and top-notch service in a more casual bar concept. It’s a lot of fun!”

With seven TVs on the patio and 17 TVs throughout, Monte’s Tastes + Taps is the place to catch your favorite sports. “The Astros, the Texans, we play the major games over the speakers,” explains Braden. “We also show UFC fights and boxing matches.”

But it’s more than just sports. This bar offers table service with upscale bar food. The wings and burgers are big hits, and so are the specials. On Texas Tuesday, there’s always a smoked or BBQ special that can be paired with discounted Texas booze and beer. Wednesday is Ladies’ Night, and Thursday is Steak Night. Braden says, “Steak Night is upscale. We offer a nice ribeye...it’s a great cut. Our specials other nights run a full range, from stuffed turkey legs to fresh fish specials. Our salad dressing is made in house from scratch. You will not be disappointed.” There’s live music on the patio every Friday night. The turf area on the patio is a huge hit with families. “We love that

by Amy Sharp

kids have the freedom to run around and play in the turf area. We have something for everyone!”

Happy Hour at Monte’s Tastes + Taps runs 3pm-6pm Tuesday through Friday. The full bar includes specialty drinks, frozen drinks, all your favorite drafts mixed in with rotating local crafts, and a nice wine list. Call-ahead seating and reservations for large groups are available. Bring the kids and enjoy yourself at Monte’s Tastes + Taps!

Monte’s Tastes + Taps

281-232-8296

815 Plantation Drive, #100 Richmond, TX 77406

www.montestastesandtaps.com

“MAKING EVERYONE FEEL WELCOME IS OUR SPECIALTY!”

by Amy Sharp

The Only Family-Friendly Saloon in Town

This year, Scotty’s Saloon celebrates five years. Owners Scott and Dina Mueller say, “We invite you all to come out and celebrate with us. We are the only family-friendly saloon in town!”

Scotty’s Saloon is proud to offer more free live music than ever before. “Eighty percent of the time, we do not charge a cover,” explains Dina. “And we have something for everyone. Families enjoy pool, darts, Buck Shot, the claw machine, and yard games that include cornhole, Jenga, Connect 4, and more. Our ‘backyard’ is large enough that kids can bring the football to toss around. What’s great is…here at Scotty’s you’ll never sit on a bench with a buzzer waiting for a table. We seat you immediately and serve you drinks, and on larger nights when the kitchen is busier, you can enjoy the music and the atmosphere while you wait for dinner…instead of that red buzzer and wait time.”

Dining options at Scotty’s include both the laid back Saloon Bar and Grill and a fine dining experience with Scotty’s Steakhouse Scotch and Prime. Dina says, “The steakhouse is a culinary experience quaintly set in a building that’s more than 100 years old. With fire-grilled steaks and the freshest

seafood, everything is made fresh at time of order. It’s fine dining perfection. Dining in the steakhouse is by reservation only.”

“Bar and grill dining is available throughout our venue,” continues Dina. “Just like the steakhouse, all bar and grill options are made fresh. We offer five different half-pound, signature, fresh-beef burgers that are seasoned and cooked when you order them. There’s nothing frozen or pre-made here.”

The Scotty’s Saloon bar menu includes margarita flights, mimosas, craft beers, fabulous Bloody Marys, and a new and exciting mocktail menu. “Designated drivers and individuals just wanting to enjoy the great music love the Gator Juice Cooler, Raspberry Mint Lemonade, and other fabulous creations from our mocktail menu. We want everyone that visits our saloon to have a great time. We’ll see y’all soon!”

Scotty’s Saloon

Scotty’s Steakhouse Scotch and Prime

(Just minutes from Greatwood!)

713-560-1804

114 Agnes Rd, Richmond, Texas

HAPPENING AT SCOTTY’S SALOON:

OCTOBER 5

COCKTAILS & CANVAS “IT’S FALL YA’LL”

OCTOBER 7

MIDGET WRESTLING

October 13

FRIDAY THE 13TH HALLOWEEN COSTUME PARTY

October 28

FAB 5 LIVE

HALLOWEEN COSTUME PARTY

November 10

JOHNNY LEE LIVE W/ WILL CARTER BAND

NOVEMBER 18

METALACHI LIVE

Over the course of her three-decade career, Founder and CEO of local Catalyst Solutions Consulting, Debbie Ortiz, has raised more than $64 million for various nonprofit organizations. Today, she’s catapulted that experience into helping organizations sustainably realize their true potential.

“Most people don’t like fundraising,” explains Debbie. “But capital campaigns and major gift identification and donor cultivation are what I love most. I have a degree in education, so I also like to train and coach. I work with a nonprofit’s staff to develop the skills necessary to carry on development for the organization without me.”

Most recently, Debbie served as Chief Development Officer, Interim CEO, and COO of AAMA in Houston. Prior to that, she was with Fort Bend Regional Council on Substance Abuse where she was responsible for all fund development activities including its gala. Debbie has many years experience in youth-serving and recovery organizations. At Catalyst Solutions Consulting, Debbie works with Texas nonprofits. Reach out today to see what she can do for your organization!

Healthy Food That’s

Delicious, Convenient, and Affordable

by

Do you find it difficult to eat healthy? It doesn’t have to be! With a dine-in cafe, weekly meal plan options, and a Grab ‘N’ Go cooler, Clean Eatz cooks up fresh, healthy and affordable options that fit everyone’s lifestyle. Not only are these meals good for you, they’re also delicious.

Clean Eatz is locally owned by Donald French Jr. and his wife, Mary Browning. Donald says, “Mary and I searched for a business we could own together that fits our healthy lifestyle; a business that fits our beliefs. Clean Eatz checks all the boxes. The food is good, the people are pleasant, and the service is great. You can eat our food and feel good about it. Most meals are under 600 calories and contain the right balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates.”

Lunch and dinner menu items at the Clean Eatz cafe include fresh-made burgers, wraps, flatbreads, “meltz,” build-your-own bowls, smoothies, and more. You’ll also find amazing snacks and fat bombs. “If you have a sweet tooth, these fat bombs are better for you than a candy bar!” says Donald.

Need fresh, healthy meals at home? The Clean Eatz weekly meal plan service is flexible and convenient. You’ll have a personal chef preparing every meal for you at a cost that you can afford. How does it work? Each week, five different and exciting entrees and one breakfast option are offered. Order as many as you like in any combination by Sunday, and your meals are ready for pickup Sunday or Monday. Discounts apply when you order 10 or more standard meals. Donald says, “These meal plans involve no commitment and no subscription. Order only the meals you want each week. Our entrees are always fresh, never frozen. If you don’t get around to eating them that week, all meals except for salads can be put in the freezer for later use.”

Speaking of the freezer, the Clean Eatz Grab ‘N’ Go cooler, located inside the cafe, is chock-

full of healthy frozen entrees, pizzas and more. “These are ready to go for you, anytime,” says Donald. “Stock up, and you’ll have healthy options on hand for when you don’t feel like cooking. Grab ‘N’ Go meals last four to six months in the freezer. And like all of our food, the Grab ‘N’ Go meals are made fresh in our on-site kitchen. They are not shipped to us from a central kitchen.”

Clean Eatz is open 11am to 7pm on weekdays and 11am to 3pm on weekends. Weekly meal plan orders can be placed by visiting www.cleaneatz.com. Gluten-free options are available. Ready to enjoy healthy food that’s both delicious and affordable? Check out Clean Eatz today!

Clean Eatz

346-309-2141

2705 Town Center Blvd. N Sugar Land, TX 77479

www.cleaneatz.com

Amy Sharp

“These meal plans involve NO commitment and NO subscription.”

Stops here. The buck

“Everything starts and ends with me,” says Keeper’s Japanese Restaurant & Bar owner, Keeper Lin. “The good and the bad, I take responsibility.”

Keeper is a graduate of the University of Taiwan National College of Marine Science and Technology with a major in the Department of Fishery. He went on to earn a degree in Computer Science from UT Tyler. Unable to envision a lifetime behind a computer, Keeper took a chance. Guided by his true passion–fish and everything marine–he sought out and completed three years of apprenticeship at one of Houston’s most accomplished sushi restaurants. With that experience, an impeccable work ethic and family support, Keeper opened his first sushi restaurant, Kaneyama, in 1994. Ten years later, in 2004, Sushi King opened its doors in the Upper Kirby District of Houston. This very successful venture secured Keeper a respected place among the sushi chef community, suppliers, and Japanese food aficionados. He then transitioned a new venture to his hometown, Sugar Land, and opened Keeper’s Japanese Restaurant & Bar in 2011 with his wife, Bell. “This restaurant is 100% Bell and I, and it belongs to our community,” says Keeper. “It’s casual… we want people to come and enjoy a great meal at a reasonable price. And this restaurant has my name on it, because the buck stops here.”

Each day, Keeper visits the fish suppliers. Quality control is important, and Keeper personally selects only the best fish to be served at his restaurant. Keeper and his chefs meet daily and operate on the principles of cleanliness, speed, quality, and outstanding customer service. Keeper says, “Chefs Freddy and Juan have been with me since Kanyama. The three of us wear a special uniform signifying our dedication to this craft of nearly three decades across the three restaurants.”

The menu at Keeper’s is a delicate mix of tradition and excitement. Shiso Hasami–a shrimp “sandwich” between shiso leaves–is a very popular traditional dish. New on the menu is a shrimp and scallop entree: sauteed shrimp and sea scallops tossed with asparagus and jalapeno in a garlic sauce. Don’t miss the Toro Kama Sashimi. Toro (fatty tuna) sashimi comes from the collar of bluefin tuna. It is difficult to find this delicacy, and you can get it at Keeper’s! Need a drink? Keeper’s fall cocktail highlights include a Fig Margarita, a Spiced Cranberry Mule, and a Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini.

“People have treated me well,” says Keeper. “I feel very fortunate and blessed for the owners and chefs who trained me all those years ago, and I appreciate my wife very much. I’ve had a lot of luck in my life, but I believe doing the right thing is important in bringing luck. Time passes so quickly, and I’m always striving to do the right thing. I’m so grateful for everything in my life.”

Keeper’s Japanese Restaurant & Bar

281-242-0389

4654 Highway 6 South, Sugar Land, TX 77478

www.keepersushi.com

by Amy Sharp

You CAN’T Express These Flavors. You HAVE To Experience Them!

by Amy Sharp

Did you know that in the 1940s a large population of Chinese people immigrated to India? This blending of cultures resulted in an aromatic and savory cuisine. Irfan Motiwala says, “You can’t express these flavors. You have to experience them!”

Alings Chinese Bistro was established in 2011 by Irfan, his wife Hsiaolin, and sister-in-law, Lin Yan. “Our family owned a restaurant in Bombay,

where my sister became very passionate about cooking,” explains Lin. “Hsiaolin helped our uncle in the kitchen, learning the different sauces and dishes. At Alings, we offer traditional Indo Chinese cuisine that’s nostalgic of Bombay, and we’ve incorporated some of Hsiaolin’s creations as well!”

Kick off your Alings flavor adventure with the Chicken Lollipops appetizer…succulent, slow-

fried marinated drumettes served with a tangy, sweet and spicy sauce. The signature entree is the Chili Chicken: chicken breast sautéed with fresh cilantro, chilies, and onions and served with fried basmati rice. Irfan says, “Basmati rice is a delicacy that only grows in the foothills of the Himalayas.” New on the menu this month is the Sugar Land Shrimp: shrimp sauteed in cilantro and garlic and tossed in a sweet chile BBQ sauce. If you’re vegan or vegetarian, Alings is your paradise. The Gobi Manchurian (crispy cauliflower florets with scallions and cilantro tossed with a spicy sauce) is merely one of many, many menu options for you.

The architectural centerpiece at Alings Chinese Bistro is the “wok,” a marvel of lighting in the shape of a wok that changes from cool blues to warm oranges and reds as the restaurant fills with patrons. “It turns red when we’re busy cooking with flames.” smiles Lin. “Customers love to sit under the wok!” This restaurant finds joy in giving back to our community. Most recently, Aling’s hosted fundraisers for The Faris Foundation and Homeless Pet Placement League.

Ready to experience the bold flavors of Alings Chinese Bistro? With dine-in, outdoor seating, carry-out, delivery, and catering all available, access to this fresh, unique cuisine is super convenient. You will not be disappointed!

Alings Chinese Bistro

281-242-0432

6542 US ALT-90, Sugar Land, Texas 77498 www.alingschinese.com

The Pho Shack owner Danh Le has always loved to cook for his family. In 2017, he had a crazy idea. Despite never working in a restaurant in his life. Danh decided to open one. Together with his brother Nhan Le, Danh signed the lease for The Pho Shack in Sugar Land. Danh came up with the menu…and the rest is history.

“I had only ever cooked pho in a small pot,” laughs Danh. “So my strategy was to buy two 200 quart pots and go with the flow. I filled the pot, and wrote down the ingredients I put in. I then tasted and adjusted the ingredients, writing down the changes. I did this again and again until it tasted right. I thank the Lord I found the right combination!” Danh’s broth is slow-simmered for 14 hours, and it’s amazing. The Houston Press named The Pho Shack a “Hidden Gem,” noting this broth as a standout.

AHidden GEM SKIP

When you order pho at The Pho Shack, it’s “Build Your Own.” Your pho starts with Danh’s famous broth, and is served with gluten-free noodles, your choice of meats, onions, cilantro, and optional sides of bean sprouts, lime, basil, and jalapeño. All items at The Pho Shack are fresh and made to order. Meats are of the highest quality. Popular entrees include char-grilled items with your choice of protein (colossal shrimp,chicken, beef filet mignon, or pork), vermicellis, rice plates, sandwiches, and wings. In addition to The Pho Shack in Sugar Land, Danh operates The Pho Shack Express locations in Blodgett Food Hall and Fair Food Co in Houston, College Station and OPEN SOON a TO GO location in Memorial Houston partnering up with the Toast Breakfast in Sugar Land. It will be open 24 hours serving up delicious Asian eats and American fusion breakfast. On top of all that he’s building another concept in Bellaire. Last month, Danh hosted “Pho With Friends” at The Pho Shack. Sponsored by Financial Advisor Eddie Zuniga and several area businesses: Carmelo’s Mexican Grill, Dr. Robert Le Texas State Optical, Chiang Law Firm, Christopher Meyer Law PLLC, F3, Soaring Phoenix Dance Team, Inflatable Adventure and Beyond, Big 6 BBQ and Egghause. This event was an afternoon

The Late Night Fast Food!

The Pho Shack offers carryout and delivery until 1am every day of the week. This fresh, made–to-order, delicious food will satisfy all of your late night cravings!

of food and fun for families. Proceeds benefited FBISD’s Walker Station Elementary and Brazos Bend Elementary. “It made me very happy to see everyone having fun! I’d love to do this every year. If you have an idea to help our community, please let me know. The awesome sponsors and The Pho Shack are all in!” says Danh.

The Pho Shack offers dine-in, carryout, party tray catering, and delivery within a five mile radius. Open seven days a week, dine-in is available 11am until 9pm, and carry-out/delivery is available until 1am at the Sugar Land location and 2am at The Pho Shack Express locations. What does this mean? When you have the latenight munchies, fast food is not your only option. You can order fresh and delicious food from The Pho Shack all day, every day. What a deal!

The Pho Shack

832-886-4902

5022 US-90 Alt A, Sugar Land, Texas 77498

www.thephoshack.com

FAJITAS Y MARGARITAS. Simple! It’s That

by Amy Sharp

Kevin and Ric Kiersh aren’t strangers to the area restaurant scene. They’re the minds behind Red River BBQ & Grill (Katy and League City) and Red River Cantina in League City. Each restaurant is a celebration of the Kiersh family heritage. The brother’s great-grandmother, Maximina “Momie” Machaen Groce, was born in Guadalajara, Mexico. The brothers grew up enjoying the recipes handed down over the years from Maximina as well as many other family members. This May, Ric and Kevin brought the fabulous Red River Cantina right here to Richmond.

At Red River Cantina, you’ll find fabulous Tex-Mex with a little flair. The ingredients are always fresh, the beef is high grade, and everything is butchered on-site. Fresh corn and flour tortillas are made right before your eyes. The full bar is known for its margaritas and extensive tequila selection. General Manager Shane Swope says, “Fajitas and margaritas, it’s that simple! But we don’t stop there. We have a little something for everyone, including ahi tuna, red fish, and salmon. We offer a nice wine list.”

Red River Cantina has the only dine-in patio in Richmond. Hand painted murals, handmade tables, authenticate artifacts from all over the world, a high-end tequila locker, and more adorn the restaurant. Kids and adults alike enjoy the turf cocktail waiting area. “We offer cocktail service while you wait,” explains Shane. The three large indoor seating areas allow for the seating of many large parties and families. All areas, including the patio, can be reserved for semi-private parties. A separate curbside entrance allows patrons to easily pick up this outstanding Tex-Mex to enjoy at home. Happy Hour runs 2:30pm until 6:30pm seven days a week and includes drinks and bar bites.

Shane says, “Not only is the food great, but I believe our staff also sets us apart. We don’t hire based on a resume. We hire personality and heart…things you can’t teach. We have fun here. It’s not unusual to see and hear a cook singing in our open kitchen. We’re proud of what we’ve created, and we invite you all to join us in the fun!”

Red River Cantina accepts reservations through OpenTable and over the phone.

Red River Cantina

346-279-1192

9220 West Bellfort Boulevard

Richmond Texas 77407

www.redrivercantina.com

Fabulous Fresh and Full of Flavor

by Amy Sharp

When Pier 36 owner Jimmy Cantu was a kid, he spent afternoons at his parents’ seafood restaurant. Jimmy says, “I would mess around the kitchen, learning to cook, and shucking oysters.”

After graduating from the University of Houston College of Restaurant Management, Jimmy worked for Pappas for 10 years. In 1997, he opened Pier 36 in Needville together with his parents, Pete and Olga…a Gulf Coast seafood restaurant with a slant to Cajun. Seventeen years ago, the family moved the restaurant to its larger location here in Richmond. A second location opened in Fulshear in 2018.

Everything on the menu at Pier 36 is made from scratch. The fried food recipes hail back from Jimmy’s parents’ restaurant. The coleslaw is his mom’s recipe. Jimmy laughs, “Mom still comes to the restaurant. She walks around and visits with our longtime customers… and she always tries the coleslaw to let us know if it was made just right!” Regulars come back again and again for

the full-service Gulf Coast oyster bar. The fresh whole flounder, fresh whole red snapper, and Gulf of Mexico shrimp are famous, fresh, and full of flavor. During crawfish season, Pier 36 serves the best in town. Not in the mood for seafood? Try the really nice, hand-cut ribeye. And don’t forget the kids. Every kids’ meal at Pier 36 comes with cotton candy…a fun evening out for the entire family! Happy Hour runs Monday through Friday 3pm until 7pm.

Jimmy and his wife Ann were both born and raised in Richmond/Rosenberg. Jimmy has served on several area boards, including Lamar Educational Awards Foundation, Access Health, and Richmond Rotary. He’s involved with the Fort Bend County Fair, Central Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, and Katy Fulshear Chamber of Commerce.

“We would love to have your family join us for some fresh, Gulf Coast seafood,” says Jimmy. “Except on Sundays, when the restaurant is closed. I give my staff that day to spend with their own families. It’s important!”

The Taste of Authentic

2 SUGAR LAND LOCATIONS

by Amy Sharp

Chai and his wife Ting came to this country from Bangkok, Thailand back in 1987. Chai loves to taste new foods and cook them in his own style. Ting is always by his side…tasting his creations and helping develop new recipes. The couple founded Thai Cottage 26 years ago with an intention to introduce Thai food to the United States. Today, Thai Cottage has seven Houston area locations, and the couple has developed three sister restaurants. Their tasty food and great services have gained the approval of Thai SELECT, a mark of certification awarded by the Royal Thai Government to guarantee the authentic Thai taste of restaurants overseas. Lucky for us, two of Chai and Ting’s concepts–Thai Cottage and Silom Station–are located right here in Sugar Land!

In the tradition of Thai people, the portions at Thai Cottage are large enough to share family style. Favorite entrees include Panang Curry, Red Curry, and Pad Kee Mao…also known as

“Drunken Noodles.” These flat rice noodles are pan-fried with garlic, onions, tomatoes, bell peppers, egg, and fresh basil. Entrees are served with your choice of shrimp, beef, chicken, pork, or fried tofu. With a full bar and eclectic Mixed Drink menu, Thai Cottage is the perfect spot for after work, out with friends, or date night.

Local Silom Station is an all-day cafe serving authentic Thai street food. All items on the “Dunch Set” menu are served with a house starter and the dessert of the day. Try the Crispy Pad Thai…it’s just like Pad Thai, except made with crispy wontons instead of rice noodles. The Massaman–chicken or beef in a slightly sweet coconut curry– is extremely popular, as is the Crying Tiger: a Thai-style, charbroiled rib-eye steak served with spicy tamarind sauce.

In addition to the fabulous food, Sit N Sip is also located within Silom Station. Enjoy specialty teas and coffees freshly brewed all day, every day in this cozy ambiance. Need a snack? All breads and pastries are homemade on-site.

All Thai Cottage sister restaurants–Thai Cottage, Silom Station, Rim Tanon (Richmond Ave. in Houston), and Time For Thai (Texas Medical Center and Houston Tunnel System)— offer full service catering, including party trays, lunch-box-style meals, and buffet lines. Thai Cottage is proud to support our local communities through its community care program. Organizations can apply for event support through the Thai Cottage website.

When you think of Thai, think of Chai and Ting’s authentic recipes at local Thai Cottage and Silom Station. You’re sure to be impressed!

Mention this article and receive a complimentary Mixed Drink with your order of an entree at Thai Cottage - Sugar Land!

*Must be 21 years of age

*Offer expires 11-30-23

Silom Station

281-340-0707

222 Hwy 6, Suite 500

Sugar Land, Texas 77478

www.silomstation.com

Thai Cottage

281-313-0707

4723 Sweetwater Boulevard

Sugar Land, Texas 77479

www.thai-cottage.com

“Recently 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,” says Arlene Tinker, MD, founder of local Sinang Medical & Associates. “Many people lose a tremendous amount of weight with it. I offer the injections both as a home program and an in-office program. I prefer the in-office program for guidance and education. Because one of the side effects of semaglutide injections is nausea, the product I use combines semaglutide with vitamin B6. The B6 reduces nausea.”

Dr. Tinker combines traditional medicine with functional medicine to achieve optimal results. Her weight loss programs are different because she focuses on longterm weight loss. “I don’t want you to yo-yo or rely on meds for the rest of your life,” continues Dr. Tinker. “Excess weight is a manifestation of the unhealthiness inside of you. Your health requires more than just calorie restriction. My programs focus first on wellness. Then once we have

the weight off, we continue the focus on education. The fact of the matter is: You know you’re overweight, and you continue to eat. Why? You have to learn about your relationship with food. You have to understand why you’re overweight. My program meets you at the point of your weakness. For many, the weakness is control and cravings. I can recommend all-natural supplements and plant extracts that deal with those cravings.” For patients not interested in semaglutide injections, Dr. Tinker has other weight loss approaches available. She is currently accepting new patients. Schedule your visit today by calling 281-247-5300 or visiting www.sinanghealth.com.

Sinang Medical & Associates

281-247-5300

1601 Main Street, Suite 210 Richmond, Texas 77469 www.sinanghealth.com

Choose Gum This Halloween!

“Sugar-free gum sweetened with xylitol is actually healthy for the teeth!” explains Dr. Shilpa Chandiwal, founder of local Healthy Teeth Pediatric Dentistry.

“Dental cavities occur when natural bacteria present in the mouth feed on the sugars we eat that remain on the teeth,” continues Dr. Shilpa. “These bacteria multiply and produce acids that attack the teeth and form cavities or decay. However, the bacteria are unable to feed on xylitol. Studies show that xylitol effectively decreases acid-producing bacteria by up to 90%, and it also keeps the bacteria from adhering to teeth which decreases plaque. And the benefits don’t stop there. Chewing gum exercises the mouth muscles, which stimulates the production of saliva. An increase in saliva helps to flush the food eaten from the mouth. There are just so many benefits to xylitol gum!”

A sweet treat that’s good for the teeth? Consider handing out sugar-free, xylitol gum to all the trick-or-treaters this Halloween! “I know that’s not realistic,” laughs Dr. Shilpa. “My suggestion to parents is to allow their kids to treat themselves to the candy they collect for one day. If at all possible, choose the chocolate over the sticky candies like Skittles, Starburst and taffy.

by Amy Sharp

Then make sure the teeth are brushed before going to bed. Don’t allow your child to hide the candy to enjoy all year long. Give it away after splurging this one night!”

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. With two convenient locations, Healthy Teeth Pediatric Dentistry is in-network with most insurances and offers convenient office hours, including Saturday appointments. Dr. Shilpa says, “I wish you all a fun and safe Halloween! Enjoy these special moments with your children.”

for Sugar Plum Market!

The signature event for the Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL), Sugar Plum Market, is an upscale holiday shopping market with over 100 fabulous vendors from all over Texas. All proceeds benefit Fort Bend County nonprofits.

Fort Bend Junior Service League was chartered in 2001 by a small group of women determined to make a difference in Fort Bend County. The first market opened its doors to a few hundred local patrons. Twenty-two years later, the Sugar Plum Market continues to be hosted by an ALL-women volunteer force and welcomes over 6,000 patrons annually. Since its inception, the market has raised over $4.0 million thanks to its loyal patrons, participating vendors, FBJSL members who organize and staff the market, and many generous sponsors, especially presenting sponsor Memorial Hermann Sugar Land.

Sugar Plum Market kicks off with a special Preview Night on Wednesday, November 1st. Limited tickets are now on sale for $100. Each Preview Night ticket includes a complimentary drink ticket, bites of holiday cuisine sure to remind you of the joys of the season, plus an exclusive shopping bag and entry to ONE general market shopping day. General market shopping days are November 2nd, 3rd, and 4th.

FBJSL would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the following 2023 sponsors: Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, Momentum BMW, Trustmark National Bank, The Audra O’Neal Team, Pierce Built Homes, The Sansone Group at Re/Max Fine Properties, Roadrunner Moving & Storage, Brandani’s Restaurant & Wine Bar, Hoffman Insurance Group, PB&J Pavement Marking, and NextLevel Urgent Care.

TickeTs:

2023 Sugar Plum Market Co-Chairs

Front Row: Monica Hasty, Andi Wallis, Cherie Lyne Bouterie

Back Row: Michelle Monterreso, Candace Amini, Holly Barker

22nd Annual

Sugar Plum Market

November 1st through November 4th, 2023

Stafford Centre

Preview Night

Wednesday, November 1st

$100 - Limited tickets available

General Market Shopping Days

November 2nd, 3rd, and 4th

General Admission tickets are available for pre-sale online at sugarplummarket. com for $12. Tickets will be sold at the box office during the market for $15.

Tickets can also be purchased in bulk. Give them as gifts or bring your office team! Valet parking is available for $15 via cash or credit card, as well as free general parking.

Please contact tickets@ sugarplummarket.com for questions or to inquire about bulk ticket orders.

(Left to Right)

New Smiles!

look for different presentations when it comes to illnesses,” explains Dr. Patel. “Symptoms can include oral inflammation that does not subside or resolve with dental treatment, enlargement of the jaw bone, pain and swelling, tingling/burning sensation, mouth sores that don’t heal, and much more. Oftentimes, the primary site of cancer is elsewhere (the breast, lung, colon, kidney, etc.), and it’s metastasized to the oral cavity. Our job as dentists is to screen the mouth for abnormalities and refer patients for a biopsy when necessary. It’s our part in early cancer detection and prevention.”

Smile Solutions opened its doors to patients and our community on September 26th. It offers care credit financing and is currently accepting new patients. Schedule an appointment today at smilesolutionsrichmond.com.

New Health!

by Amy Sharp

On September 25th, the Central Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce hosted the ribbon cutting for Smile Solutions: a new, charismatic general dentistry practice founded by accomplished dentist, Dr. Asha Patel.

Dr. Patel recently moved from Florida to Fort Bend County to raise her family. She’s a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD) and was voted one of Tampa’s Top 20 Dentists in 2019. Patients love her friendly smile and positive attitude. “My goal is to always find a viable solution for your problem,” says Dr. Patel. “I offer fair treatment plans, and I want to build trust. I want you to know in your heart that you’re receiving the very best care.”

Smile Solutions

Dr. Asha Patel, DMD, FAGD 832-449-5442

7963 W. Grand Parkway S. Suite A, Richmond, TX 77407 smilesolutionsrichmond.com

Get More from Lone Star Floors

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!”

Did you know that your dentist plays a part in prevention? October being Breast Cancer Awareness month, Dr. Patel encourages patients to come in for oral health screenings. “We have been trained to Sugar

The Kitchen is The

Gathering Space in The Home New

by Amy Sharp

Do you remember the kitchen in the house where you grew up? Chances are, it was a simple cooking area segregated from the dining area to hide the clutter and dishes left behind after preparing the meal. In today’s houses, that has changed. Kitchens are the new, primary gathering space in the home.

In her 10+ years of coordinating remodeling projects in Fort Bend County, Teri Gilberg (better known as The Re-Modelista) has watched this shift in kitchens. Teri says, “When people build or remodel kitchens today, communal gathering is just as important to the design as functionality. Often, kitchens are much bigger than they used to be. In addition to cooking spaces, countertop seating and a kitchen table around which people can gather and talk while cooking and eating together become a priority when redesigning a kitchen. Often, the formal dining room gets transformed to make the kitchen bigger, because families find they are spending more time together in the kitchen than ever before!”

When you’re ready to remodel your kitchen into a beautiful gathering space, Teri is Fort Bend’s go-to contractor for making it happen. “It all starts with a visit to your home,” says Teri. “Maybe you already have ideas on how to redesign the kitchen, and maybe you don’t. I can help either way! I can also assure you of this: No idea is too crazy. Tell me what you’re thinking, and we’ll walk through it from an architectural and structural standpoint. We’ll find a kitchen design solution that works for you and your home.”

When you work with The Re-Modelista, all projects are turnkey.

Teri explains, “This means that once we have the plan in place, I do the rest. I provide you with a turnkey cost and budget. If you need assistance selecting design elements, I work close ly with local vendors, includ ing Christine D’Amato at Pro Source and interior designer Louise Ostrander, to help coordinate colors, tile, hardware, countertops, etc. for the kitchen of your dreams. I provide contractor discounts to online vendors for plumbing fixtures, light fixtures, and more. I coordinate all contrac tors for you. I try my very best to have work happening at your house each day. This way, we finish in the shortest time frame possible.”

It all starts with a phone call. Contact Teri today to explore how you too can transform your kitchen into the primary gathering space in your home.

The Re-Modelista

Your Home Renovation Specialist

Serving Fort Bend County For More Than 10 Years

832-535-2501 • cell: 832-731-3191

www.theremodelista.com

Early Detection Starts With Your ANNUAL MAMMOGRAM

The recommended age to start your annual mammogram is 40. Schedule yours today.

At Houston Methodist Breast Care Centers, our board-certified experts use the latest imaging technology to provide you with cutting-edge breast screenings — such as 3D mammograms — to detect even the smallest lumps and abnormalities with accuracy. We offer:

• 10+ convenient locations across Houston

• Online scheduling with readily available appointments

• Expanded hours available at most locations

• Access to medical records and test results through MyChart