January 2014 - Absolutely Brazos Magazine

Serving Richmond, Rosenberg & Fulshear

JANUARY 2014

Gingerbread Kids’ Academy

NEW YEAR NEW YOU GEMS Give Generously to AccessHealth

Opens New Location

WINE

$2.95

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Resolutions

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We Put our Hearts into Caring for Yours According to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease can increase the risk for heart attack or stroke, as well as other heart-related issues.

At St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital, the specialized cardiology team can help in the diagnosis and treatment of heart-related conditions. The team, led by board-certified cardiologists, is dedicated to excellence in cardiovascular care, including diagnostic and interventional heart and peripheral procedures, all while utilizing the latest medical technology. Plus, we’re conveniently located right here in the heart of your community.

Cardiac Services: - Diagnostic Testing - Heart and Peripheral Procedures - Electrophysiological Procedures

- Pacemaker and Defibrillator Implants - Interventional Cardiology - Surgical Services

For more information about the available Cardiology services, call 281-637-7000.

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I chose MD Anderson in Sugar Land - Michelle Williams

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CONTRIBUTORS

JANUARY 2014

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VOLUME 2

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Amy Gross VineSleuthUncorked.com Page 20

NUMBER 2

F E AT U R E S

20 Steve Kursar Auto Enthusiast Page 40

18 THE GEMS OF FORT BEND PROVIDE NEARLY $15,000 TO ACCESSHEALTH

absolutely! focus media Executive Publishers Michael and Lisa Fredrickson presented AccessHealth with proceeds from the Generous, Enthusiastic Men Serving event held in October.

22 PRIVATE SCHOOLS AND AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES Find the best and brightest in private schools and after school activities in West Fort Bend.

28 REJUVENATION AND WELLNESS Tim and Kathryn Kaminski.

Photography by Nesossi Studios.

COVER STORY 8 THERE’S A NEW KID IN TOWN . . .

WITH AN ESTABLISHED REPUTATION FOR CARE For thirty-three years, the name Gingerbread has been synonymous with child care in Richmond and Rosenberg. And now, the Gingerbread name is expanding to include an additional location dedicated to their long-standing mission of caring for and educating young children with the Gingerbread Kids’ Academy.

ON THE COVER: Tim and Kathryn Kaminski’s new Gingerbread Kids’ Academy.

Photography

by Nesossi Studios.

Rejuvenate yourself for the New Year! From medical to aesthetic and holistic remedies, Brazos’ finest providers will help you start the year refreshed and at your best.

NEWSWORTHY 20 STARS INTRODUCES The 9th Annual Girlfriends Giggle

24 ROSENBERG DENTIST MAKES PLEDGE Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center

26 LAMAR CONSOLIDATED HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT

Kumar chosen for University Interscholastic League Congress

39 SECOND ANNUAL READING BETWEEN THE WINES Coming in February

absolutely!

DELICIOUS 20 VINESLEUTH

New Year’s Wine Resolutions: Drink More – and Better – Wine

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40 Joan Frances Contributor Page 44

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MEDICAL & BUSINESS 24 CHAMBER TO RECOGNIZE 2013 AWARD WINNERS January 10th Luncheon

33 MEDICAL FOCUS

absolutely!

AUTO REVIEW 40 2014 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE TDI

COLUMNS 44 A LITTLE PIECE OF HISTORY Morton Cemetery: A Legacy of the Past

IN EVERY ISSUE 6 EDITOR’S POINT OF VIEW 12 SEEN ON THE SCENE 22 COMMUNITY EVENTS 34 OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART OF BRAZOS 42 COMMUNITY MARKETPLACE

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EXCLAMATION POINTS! THE INSIDE SCOOP STRAIGHT FROM THE TOP

Vol. 2 No. 2 | January 2014

Editor-in-Chief, PATTI PARISH-KAMINSKI It’s 2014! Another new year is upon us, and with it, I have high hopes. I’ve always been an optimist, a more “the glass is half full” kind of girl, so I love the new year and of course, the ever popular New Year’s Resolutions.

At the top of my resolution list this year is to highlight even more West Fort Bend residents and businesses doing amazing things in our community. This month’s cover, I must admit, hits close to Kassidi and Kolton Kaminski with The Jungle Book’s home. The cover features the new Baloo and King Louie at Disney World.

Gingerbread Kids’ Academy, a state-of-the-art 10,000 square foot children’s academy that is being built in Richmond. You might recognize the names of the owners as they are long-standing members of our community with an excellent reputation in child care and education. And yes, their last name is also the same as mine. Congratulations to my husband, Tim, and my mother and father-in-law on their new endeavor. Read all about their new center and their plans to insure a bright future for our community’s children on page 8.

My next resolution will be to never go to four theme parks in four days again.

Yes, Tim and I took our children to Disney World over the holidays, and let me just say, Disney is tough on a princess. The princess, of course, being me.

My final resolution – yes, I have discovered that limiting myself to three actually works for me – is to spend more time with family and friends. The “all work and no play” adage is going to be top of mind with me for the coming year. And well, I think taking our Vine Sleuth’s advice on page 20 is also not a bad idea: Drink more – and better – wine!

We wish you many blessings for the coming year, and we look forward to seeing you out and about in Brazos in 2014! Happy New Year!

WWW.ABSOLUTELYBRAZOS.COM

EXECUTIVE PUBLISHERS

Michael & Lisa Fredrickson E D I T O R- I N - C H I E F

Patti Parish-Kaminski SENIOR AC C OUNT EXECUTIVE

Jessica Kij

AC C OUNT EXECUTIVES

Stephenie Cox Susan Dannhaus Jennifer Elliott Kay Garrett Andrea Rigamonti Suzanne Stiles Bonnie Bell Woodrow A RT D I R E C T O R

Grace Belleza

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Ginger Garza

C O M M U N I C AT I O N S C O O R D I NAT O R

Sarah Bearden

CONTRIBUTORS

Joan Frances Amy Gross Steve Kursar

PHOTOGRAPHER

Nesossi Studios

WEB DESIGNER

Joey Belleza INTERN

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Subscription requests are free to West Fort Bend area addresses. Annual paid subscription of $25 required outside West Fort Bend area. absolutely!TM Magazines are published by absolutely! focus media, 4655 Techniplex Dr., Ste. 700, Stafford, TX 77477. Copyright © 2013 by absolutely! focus media. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. absolutely!TM Magazines does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial, nor do the publishers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. absolutely!TM Magazines welcomes editorial submissions from its readers.

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Tim and Kathryn Kaminski.

There’s A New Kid in Town . . .

With an Established Reputation for Care

Gingerbread Kids’ Academy

W

hen it comes to caring for and educating young children, what is the recipe for success? Try a heaping spoonful of thirty years of experience in early childhood development, add in a cup of a healthcare executive with a Master’s Degree in Speech Language Pathology with over twenty-five years of treating children’s language disorders, mix well with a dash of commitment to early childhood development, and you have a winning recipe in the Gingerbread Kids’ Academy.

The Gingerbread Name

COVER STORY

By Patti Parish-Kaminski Photo By Nesossi Studios.

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For thirty-three years, the name Gingerbread has been synonymous with child care in Richmond and Rosenberg.

From their original Rosenberg two-acre location on Fourth Street to their After-School Programs at three Lamar Consolidated ISD schools – Frost, Hutchison and Hubenak Elementary – Gingerbread has been a staple in the community caring for young children. One of the first providers to Lamar Consolidated ISD schools, Gingerbread developed the curriculum for the three After-School Programs. And now, the Gingerbread name is expanding to include an additional location dedicated to their long-standing mission of caring for and educating young children to both prepare them for elementary school, as well as insure their success in a structured learning environment.

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Gingerbread Kids’ Academy’s new 10,000 square foot location at 814 FM 2977 in Richmond will do just that.

With seven classrooms dedicated to educating children, two multi-purpose rooms, a full-service kitchen, six age appropriate playgrounds and a water splash pad, Gingerbread’s new academy will accommodate children from eight weeks to 12 years old. “Our goal is and has always been to provide a family-oriented environment where children learn and grow,” said Kathryn Kaminski, owner and director of the Gingerbread House Daycare Center in Rosenberg, or “Ms. K,” as she is affectionately referred to by the “Gingerbread kids.” And after over thirty years in the industry, she and her husband, Larry, have set their sights on caring for and educating even more Gingerbread kids. “Expanding our Gingerbread family with this new state-of-the-art facility will allow us to care for even more children, which has always been a personal goal of mine,” said Ms. K. Caring for children isn’t just a business with Ms. K; it’s her life’s work. Recently elected as a school board trustee for Lamar Consolidated ISD, she takes children, their well-being and their education very seriously. “In thirty

years, I have seen changes in our society, our environment and educational system that affect early childhood development and children’s education. I am honored to be able to utilize that experience serving as a board trustee to insure our children receive the best possible education in our community.”

Family Focus While creating a family-oriented environment for children is paramount to Ms. K, the expansion of the Gingerbread brand also focuses on family.

Tim Kaminski, co-owner and director of the Gingerbread Kids’ Academy along with Ms. K, is both her son and business partner. In 2011, Kaminski became a licensed childcare director.

Kaminski has taken the lead on expanding the Gingerbread name with the new location that is scheduled to open in January 2014. “This project has truly been a labor of love,” said Kaminski. “We are pleased to be opening our second location in the Richmond/ Rosenberg area. We believe in investing in our community and in the future of our children.”

With Kaminski serving as the new academy’s director, the Gingerbread Kids’ Academy will be the only learning center in the area with a Speech

Language Pathologist on site. In the five years that Kaminski has worked with Gingerbread, that skill set has made a remarkable difference in the quality of care for many Gingerbread kids. “We are able to make early determinations if there are any significant speech, language or developmental delays, and if identified, we are able to make the appropriate referrals out to the various resources in our community for further assessment,” said Kaminski, who has not only successfully identified issues with children, he has personally served as advocates for children needing early childhood intervention (ECI) services. “Insuring that these children get the appropriate help they need is important, and the fact that I am able to utilize my experience as a Speech Language Pathologist to help children and their families is an important asset.”

Advocating for children is a passion Kaminski shares with his mother.

Kaminski serves as an advisory board member for Texana Center, a non-profit that provides services to people needing behavioral, intellectual and developmental care, support and education, as well as an advisory board member for OakBend Hospital. He is a member of the Texas Association for the

The Gingerbread Kids' Academy, scheduled to open in January 2014, is a new 10,000 square foot center located at 814 FM 2977 in Richmond. www.absolutelybrazos.com l JANUARY 2014

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Education of Young Children (TAEYC), and he frequently conducts child care employee training seminars throughout the state. In fact, Kaminski helped develop the new Infant, Toddler and Three-Year-Old Developmental Guidelines for the State of Texas by serving on the stakeholders advisory group for the Texas Early Learning Council. The only privately owned child care center invited to participate on the two-year project, the group authored the suggested guidelines for child care centers, employees, parents, care givers, physicians and policy makers. The Guidelines were published in 2013 with Kaminski listed as a contributor.

Gingerbread Kids’ Academy When the new Gingerbread Kids’ Academy opens in January, it will be

Kathryn and Tim Kaminski at the site of the new Gingerbread Kids' Academy.

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the only children’s academy of its kind in the area. With programs designed around developmental milestones, the goal of the academy is to prepare children for a successful entry into Kindergarten. “Research has shown that children who participate in early childhood programs with a focus on developing social and emotional skills are better prepared for successful entry into Pre-K and elementary school programs,” said Kaminski. “Children should be socially, emotionally and cognitively prepared, which is our focus at Gingerbread.”

While academics and developmental milestones are a priority at Gingerbread, children attending the new location will enjoy the ability to play on state-of-the-art equipment as they grow. Each of the seven classrooms opens up to its own private, outdoor playground featuring age appropriate equipment. Also unique to Gingerbread is the water splash pad where children can enjoy water activities on hot days. “We all know that kids love water, so creating another outdoor sensory experience with a splash pad was something that we knew would be a hit with kids,” said Kaminski, who designed the splash pad area.

The two large multi-purpose rooms will be utilized by the children for after-school programming, which includes a library, computer center, arts and games center and homework assistance center. The rooms will also be available for birthday parties, baby showers, civic organizations such as Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts and parent and staff development training seminars. “Our goal is to offer our multi-purpose rooms to community organizations on the weekends and in the evenings,” said Kaminski, who has agreed to host the 2015 Texana Autism Conference at the new Gingerbread Kids’ Academy. “We want to be a resource for our community, as well as serve as a responsible community partner.”

For more information or to enroll in Gingerbread Kids’ Academy, visit www.gbkidsacademy.com or call 281239-2110.

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Gingerbread Kids’ Academy Grand Opening Celebration Tour the new Gingerbread Kids’ Academy at their Grand Opening Celebration! The Grand Opening is scheduled for Saturday, February 22nd from 10 am to 2 pm, and the community is invited to attend.

Festivities include: • Free backpacks to the first 30 children who enroll • Refreshments • Balloon animals • Special character appearances • 50% off initial registration fee* For more information or to enroll in Gingerbread Kids’ Academy, visit www. gbkidsacademy.com or call 281-239-2110. *Does not include security deposit.

St. Luke’s

Sugar Land Doctor Group welcomes...

Percy Howard III, M.D. Family Medicine

Percy Howard III, M.D. is a native of Huntsville Texas. He spent four years in the Air Force as a medic after graduating from high school. After an honorable discharge from the military, he worked his way through Houston Baptist University where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology. He attended medical school at University of Texas at Galveston and then completed a three year Family Medicine residency program at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. After graduating from the residency program, he worked for Memorial Hospital System for the past eighteen years. In the past nine years, he has been a faculty member of the Memorial Family Medicine Residency where he saw patients and helped train young Family Medicine doctors. He uses a relaxed approach to patient’s visits but emphasizes preventative care to improve long term outcomes. He enjoys caring for patients of all ages but limits his pediatric patients to above ten years of age.

For an appointment call: 281.637.7690

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4:06 PM

S E E N on the Scene

The Central Fort Bend Chamber’s Inaugural Fort Bend Strong Gala

Tommy Kuykendall, Shanta Kuhl and Allen Owen

Laura Lyons & Greg Hicks

Eric & Paula Ryburn

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Margaret & Kevin Patton

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Win ticket giveaways to area attractions and events!

November 9, 2013 • Safari Texas

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Photos by BAC Photography and Design

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S E E N on the Scene

Third Annual Honoring America’s Heroes Gala Benefiting Impact a Hero

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Jessica Garcia & Sergio Loyola

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November 15, 2013 • Safari Texas

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&

Honor the

Geof Nesossi, Jessica Kij, Heather Gobert, S. Scott West, Lisa Fredrickson, Carol Edwards, Michael Fredrickson, Cindy Reaves, Mark Gobert, Dee Koch, Carolyn Banfield, Sandra Billingsley, Doris Gurecky and Joe M. Gurecky.

The GEMS of Fort Bend Provide Nearly $15,000 to AccessHealth

T

he GEMS, along with a few JEWELS, attended the check presentation ceremony to the beneficiary of the first GEMS of Fort Bend event, AccessHealth. absolutely! focus media Executive Publishers Michael and Lisa Fredrickson presented the organization with proceeds from the Generous, Enthusiastic Men Serving event held in October in the amount of $10,000. The event provided AccessHealth with a total contribution of $14,825 from casino chip sales, a wine basket auction prepared by the JEWELS of Fort Bend and additional event donations.

“Supporting important community organizations such as AccessHealth is part of our mission of being community focused,” said Lisa Fredrickson, executive publisher of absolutely! focus media. “Through two of our community magazines, Fort Bend Focus and absolutely! Brazos, we were thrilled to

Three JEWELS supporting the GEMS at the check presentation: Sandra Billingsley, Carolyn Banfield and Doris Gurecky.

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be able to host the GEMS of Fort Bend and provide much needed support to AccessHealth so that they can continue to serve the healthcare needs of our friends and neighbors.”

Event sponsor Geof Nesossi of Nesossi Studios, GEM S. Scott West and AccessHealth’s Cindy Reaves.

Lisa and Michael Fredrickson, along with GEMS Joe M. Gurecky and S. Scott West, made the official check presentation to AccessHealth.

The first GEMS of Fort Bend honored three stellar examples of community service: Joe M. Gurecky, Carl P. Favre and S. Scott West. “Giving back to our community is so important,” said former Rosenberg Mayor Gurecky.

“Community service is how we both maintain and grow our community for future generations. The well-being of our community is in our hands, and we must serve as good stewards and good examples.”

The check was presented to AccessHealth CEO Carol Edwards. “We are very honored and excited to have been chosen as the beneficiary of this wonderful event,” said Edwards.

“These funds will certainly help us

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in continuing our mission to provide quality health care to the entire community. It was a lovely event, honoring three very deserving men, and we were happy to be a part of it.”

The presentation was hosted at the Sugar Land RBC Wealth Management office of Hardee Investment Group, the casino sponsor of the GEMS event.

Guests included event sponsors, the 2014 GEMS and several of the JEWELS of Fort Bend, the Joyous, Extraordinary Women Enriching Lives.

Hardee Investment Group’s Mark Gobert with absolutely! focus media’s Jessica Kij.

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NEWSWORTHY

By Amy Gross

New Year’s Wine Resolutions Drink More – and Better - Wine

I

n my experience as the Vine Sleuth, I have learned a few things about enjoying and exploring wines. And, since January is so often about resolutions, I would like to encourage you to adopt these as your New Year's Wine Resolutions. They are much more fun than your typical New Year's resolutions and will serve you well through the new year.

Resolution Number One: Don't drink wine you don't like.

If you don't like a wine, dump it out or send it back, even if it's an award-winning, 100-point wine that everyone else says is amazing. It might be amazing to someone else, but it has to be good to you for you to like it. And, there are too many fantastic options that will suit you well to settle for something you don't like. You just might need help finding them.

Resolution Number Two: Don't be shy about asking for a taste.

If you don't know what to order, ask for a taste of your top two choices to help you decide. Many restaurants and bars will be happy to let you try a wine or two, provided you have every intention of purchasing a glass or bottle. By tasting, you are sure to end up with a wine you'll enjoy rather than just guessing, and getting it wrong.

Resolution Number Three: Remember grape types or blends you like, together with the areas where the wines are from, to help find more similar wines you might like.

Wines should be an expression of the area where the grapes are grown. Different areas impart different flavors on the grapes. If you can remember, for example, that you like Pinot Noir (that's the grape type) from Oregon or Sauvignon Blanc (another grape type) from New Zealand, that's a huge help in guiding you to other wines you might enjoy with similar characteristics. Start by trying other brands of wine from that same area using the same grapes.

What do you think about these resolutions for the coming year? Do you drink wine you don't like? Are you nervous about asking for a taste? Do you have any wine rules that I've left out that have helped you explore and enjoy wine? Click over to my blog, VineSleuthUncorked.com, and tell me what you think.

Cheers to a new year of drinking better wine!

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STARS Introduces the 9th Annual Girlfriends Giggle STARS proudly announces the 9th Annual Girlfriends Giggle benefiting the Fort Bend County Women’s Center on Thursday, February 6th from 6:30 pm to 11:00 pm in the “Diva Den” at Fluor of Sugar Land, One Fluor Daniel Drive in Sugar Land.

STARS supports the Fort Bend County Women’s Center’s fundraising and direct service efforts through special events and by assisting with agency projects.

Giggle is the ultimate “Girls’ Night Out” for hundreds of ladies each year.

Billed as a Grown Up Girl Pajama Party, the event celebrates female friendships. The evening includes a live DJ, dancing, pajama party, top local restaurant fare, a martini bar, live and silent auctions, boutique shopping, dance lessons and personal indulgences such as manicures, massages and hair styling.

The Fort Bend County Women’s Center is a non-profit United Way Agency whose mission is to assist survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault and their children to achieve safety and self-sufficiency.

Since its inception over 30 years ago, the Women’s Center has provided over 35,000 women and children with a safe harbor and led them toward a violence-free future.

Tickets for Giggle 2014 are available for purchase online at www. fortbendwomenscenter.org or at the Women’s Center office located at 905 3rd Street in Rosenberg. For more information on how to become a sponsor or vendor, call (281) 3445756 or email Anne Budill at abudill@ fortbendwomenscenter.org.

Putting Your Heart in Hands You Can Trust

Complete Design Service

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Come Visit Our 5000 Sq Ft Showroom!

• Custom Drapery & Bedding • Shutters, Blinds & Shades • Solar Screens & Tint • Faux Painting & Murals • Custom Made Furniture • Upholstery & Refinishing • Custom Cabinetry • Tile, Granite & Silestone

Yassir Sonbol, M.D

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CJ’s Quilt Shop Lots of fabric, thread and patterns Classes from beginner to advanced Wide backing fabric for your larger quilts We make custom t-shirt quilts and memory quilts Batting and thread for longarm quilting We offer computerized machine quilting for your projects

OWNERS: Caron Lopez & Candelario Lopez

1405 Avenue I Rosenberg, TX 77471 281.342.9160 www.grandwindows.com

Monday: 10am – 5pm Tuesday: 10am – 7pm Wednesday – Saturday: 10am – 5pm Sunday: 12pm – 4pm

5529 FM 359, Suite E

•

Richmond, TX 77406

(located between Enchanted Gardens and Swinging Door)

832. 222. 2033

Like us on

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Advertorial

• ••

EVENTS•••

N Join o ing Fee Jan ua 1 st - ry 13 th

January 10th, 7 – 10 pm

Fort Bend Republican Party Lincoln-Reagan Dinner 2014 Join the Republican Party of Fort Bend County for an evening of VIP and general receptions, dinner and a live auction at Safari Texas Ranch, located at 11627 FM 1464 in Richmond. For reservations, e-mail rsvpcampaign@gmail.com or visit www.fbcgop.org.

January 10th and 11th, 6 – 9 pm

Fireside Suppers: 1830s Hearthside Cooking Explore 19th century cooking techniques and the intricacies of hearthside cooking at George Ranch Historical Park’s1830s Jones Stock Farm, located at 10215 FM 762 in Richmond. At the end of each cooking lesson, guests will partake of their meal over candlelight with their historical cooking guide, Chef Nick Castelberg. Reservations are required.

Call 281-343-0218 or e-mail education@georgeranch.org.

January 19th – 31st

Winter Family Reading Club The Family Reading Club at Fort Bend County Libraries will take place through March 1st at all branches in the Fort Bend County library system. The sixweek program is designed to encourage families to read, learn and have fun together. Register at www.fortbend.lib. tx.us and click on the “Family Reading Club Sign-Up” image beginning January 18th. Call 281-341-2677.

We are changing the cultural landscape.

Join us.

January 21st, 6:30 – 8:30 pm

Texas Master Naturalist Quarterly Chapter Meeting The Coastal Prairie Chapter of Texas Master Naturalist in Fort Bend and Waller Counties will hold their quarterly meeting in the Bud O’Shieles Community Center, located at 1330 Band Road in Rosenberg. Anyone interested in the Texas Master Naturalist volunteer organization is invited to hear about various opportunities the chapter offers for learning about nature, working together with other naturalists on local projects or teaching in the community. Call 281-633-7033 or e-mail mmcdowell@ag.tamu.edu.

January 25th, 9 am – 1 pm

Fort Bend Master Gardeners Annual Fruit & Citrus Tree Sale Bring your wagon and join the fun at the sale featuring over 50 varieties of fruit trees and berries and over 40 varieties of citrus. The event will take place at Fort Bend County Fairgrounds in Building H. For a list of trees for sale, visit www.fbmg.com. Call 281-6337033.

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theimperial.org | 281.277.7444

JANUARY 2014 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

Private Schools and After School Activities

Advertorial

Imagine Calvary

W The Gingerbread House Learning Center

L

ocally owned and operated for over thirty years, the Gingerbread House Learning Center features two private Pre-Kindergarten programs, on-site after school programs at three Lamar Consolidated ISD elementary school campuses and an emphasis on infant and toddler development.

Conveniently located on a beautiful two-acre campus on 4th Street in Rosenberg, the Gingerbread House Learning Center offers programming for children 8 weeks old to 12 years.

Pre-K 1 and 2 classes are Monday through Friday from 6:30 am to 6 pm.

Both Pre-K programs’ curriculums offer an introduction to reading, writing and essential math skills. The teachers focus on social skills, problem solving, memory skills and preparation for transition into Kindergarten.

The Gingerbread House Learning Center participates in the Texas Kindergarten Readiness System, and their director helped develop the new voluntary Texas Infant, Toddler and ThreeYear-Old Early Learning Guidelines recently adapted by the State of Texas.

The Gingerbread House Learning Center also offers on-site after school care programs at Lamar Consolidated ISD’s Frost, Hutchison and Hubenak Elementary schools. To enroll in one of the Gingerbread House Learning Center programs or one of the after school care programs, call 281-232-9583 or visit www.gbhdaycare.com.

ant to know the benefit of your child attending Calvary Episcopal School and College Prep? It is these golden teachings that go beyond the 3 R’s: Reverence for God, Respect for Others and Responsibility for Self. As if that isn’t enough, Calvary has been taking students to the next level by using a Christian based, individualized learning approach taught by experienced and dedicated faculty since 1956.

Now, imagine your child waking up every morning excited to go to school. Imagine a school setting where the day begins with a chapel service and has a diverse student body dedicated to learning, achievement and service to the community.

Imagine a low teacher to student ratio where students test two or more grade levels higher than the national average in reading, math, science and social studies.

Imagine a setting that offers your child the opportunity to be mentored in the lower grades, and be a mentor-leader in the upper grades. Imagine your child understanding the contents of the Bible and being able to relate how God’s word works in everyday life. Imagine your child fluently speaking Spanish and confidently speaking in front of others. Imagine your child participating in athletics that not only have solid records but emphasize teamwork, responsibility and dedication. Imagine your child experiencing choral music, band and an award-winning art program.

To learn more about the Calvary culture, join their Prospective Student Open House on January 23rd from 7 to 9 pm. For more information, contact Calvary Episcopal School and College Prep at 281-342-3161 or email headmaster@ces-richmond.org.

Reverence for God, Respect for Others and Responsibility for Self.

Welcoming Students from Pre-K (4 yrs) through Grade12 An exemplary and accredited educational environment where your child will learn from certified teachers in a family-oriented Christian atmosphere.

Bring this ad and receive a $100 discount when you register your child.

To catch a glimpse of what it might be like, please attend our

PROSPECTIVE STUDENT OPEN HOUSE Thursday, January 23, 2014 7-9 pm www.absolutelybrazos.com l JANUARY 2014

23

NEWSWORTHY

Rosenberg Dentist Makes Pledge to Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center

BUSINESS BRIEFS

The Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center: A Very Special Project of the Children’s Museum of Houston received another boost in its efforts to raise the last $840,000 need by the end of the year to move forward with the project.

Rosenberg pediatric dentist May Tape, DDS made a significant pledge to the museum for its Science Activity Center where children of all ages can explore physical science concepts and properties of matter. “I couldn’t think of a better way to promote the importance of science among young people than through the museum’s Science Activity Center,” says Dr. Tape. “This venue can be the spark that lights a child’s interest in science.”

While the recent influx of donations to the museum has supporters of the project optimistic, they also are mindful of the deadline to raise $1.6 million in order to move forward with the facility, a museum with a look and feel similar to the Children’s Museum of Houston. “That’s our daily motivation,” says Tracy Golden, capital campaign manager for the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center, who adds her team is seeking another cosponsor of the Science Activity Center.

Chamber to Recognize 2013 Award Winners at January 10th Luncheon

For 103 years, the Central Fort Bend Chamber has been the voice of business and growth in Fort Bend County. In 2013, that voice remained strong in large part because of the volunteer efforts and commitments made by many of its almost 800 members.

The Chamber will proudly recognize 13 of those members at its 2013 Annual Awards Luncheon, which is scheduled for Friday, January 10th at Cindy’s Palace located at 1102 FM 2977 in Richmond. The event, presented by Allegiance Roofing, will also thank the Chamber’s outgoing Board Directors for their dedication and service.

Categories honored include: Business Person of the Year (Won in 2012 by May Tape, DDS), Corporate Sponsor of the Year (Won in 2012 by First Victoria National Bank), Volunteer of the Year, Raymond Saage Award (Won in 2012 by Lisa Matthews, Servpro of West Fort Bend County), Ambassador of the Year (Won in 2012 by Tom Wilson, Reading Road Self-

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May Tape, DDS with Rachel Leaman, campaign co-chair for the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center, and Libby King, campaign committee member for the museum.

Top-level naming opportunities also remain in the museum’s meeting rooms at $100,000 each, as well as naming rights for the TotSpot exhibit for $300,000 and the KidTropolis exhibit for $400,000. “We’re going to make it,” adds Golden. “And when we do, this museum will become the crown jewel of the community.”

The Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center is scheduled to open in Imperial Sugar Land in the summer of 2015, largely mirrored after the award-winning Children’s Museum of Houston.

Six primary exhibits, managed as platforms for learning for children birth through 12 years, will focus on childhood questions such as “How Does It Work?,” “Where Does It Come From?” and “Can I Solve That?”

Those interested in contributing to the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center can contact Tracy Golden at 281-494-0297 or at tgolden@cmhouston.org. For more information on the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center, visit www.fortbendchildrensdc.org. “Like” the museum at www.facebook.com/FortBendDiscoveryCenter.

Storage), Board Member of the Year (Won in 2012 by Kevin Kohl, Silver Eagle Distrubutors), Committee Member of the Year (Shared in 2012 by Katie Yount, McDonough Engineering, and Justin Ring, EHRA), Young Professionals Division Member of the Year (Won in 2012 by Justin Morales, Greenscape Associates), Hispanic Business Division Member of the Year (Won in 2012 by Shirley Jackson, La Casona), Historic Downtown Rosenberg Division Member of the Year (New Award) and Fulshear Area Business Division Member of the Year (New Award). The Chamber will also honor persons or groups from their Stakeholder Cities of Fulshear, Richmond and Rosenberg with Achievements in Economic Development Awards.

Bud Light/Silver Eagle Distributors is a Table Sponsor and SiEnvironmental is a Corporate Supporter of the event. Sponsor tables and corporate tables are available. To sponsor this event, contact Leigh Ann Dawson at 281-342-5464 or ldawson@CFBCA.org.

Reservations for the luncheon are $30 for Chamber members and $40 for prospective members and guests. Event day pricing is $40 for members and $50 for non-members.

Cancellations less than 72 hours in advance and no shows will be charged. For reservations or more information, call the Chamber at 281-342-5464.

JANUARY 2014 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

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NEWSWORTHY

providing loving expert care State-of-the-Art Medical & Surgical Equipment Highly Skilled & Caring Professionals Early Disease Detection Program

to keep your pet healthy & happy

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713.927.2879

Acreage Lots from the 40’s!

Gated Community Lake Lots Available Buy Now, Build Later!

Sales Office open: Sat. 11am - 5pm Sun. 12pm - 5pm

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JANUARY 2014 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

Lamar Consolidated High School Student Chosen for University Interscholastic League Congress

Speech teacher M. Yvonne Eype and Jonathan Kumar.

Lamar Consolidated senior Jonathan Kumar will compete January 7th and 8th in Austin against about 150 other students in the first-ever University Interscholastic League (UIL) Congress competition. “Making it to State in UIL Congress is pretty cool,” Kumar said. “There was a ton of competition at the Regional Tournament.”

“Jonathan has truly illustrated what it means to be a dedicated and talented debater,” said M. Yvonne Eype, Director of Speech and Debate at Lamar Consolidated High. “His determination to excel in all of his events has been an inspiration to all his teammates.”

Congress is an individual contest in a large group setting, modeled on the legislative process of democracy, specifically, the United States Congress. This Congress, like the one in Washington, D.C., will deal with real-world social and political policies. Students submit draft legislation, proposed laws and position statements, prior to the tournament and must research the docket of bills and resolutions coming from other students.

At the tournament, Kumar will caucus with between 15 and 20 other students in committees, deliver formal discourse on the merits and disadvantages of each piece of legislation and vote to pass or defeat the measures they have examined.

The caucuses, which act as the preliminary round, last for eight hours. Between one and six students in each caucus will advance to the finals.

Judges grade each speaker for the content of his speech, the speaker’s argument for or against the legislation and delivery of the information.

Sweetwater Pulmonary Associates Board Certified Pulmonologists,

Sandip Desai, MD and Manpreet Mangat, MD welcome their patients to their new facility.

We will help you breathe better.

SPECIALIZING IN: Dyspnea Copd/Emphysema Asthma Lung Mass Pulmonary Hypertension Pulmonary Fibrosis Sleep Apnea

FREE SUBSCRIPTION www.absolutelybrazos.com absolutely! Brazos Magazine wants to provide readers with the best community feature magazine possible.

We want to focus on our READERS and mail exclusively to residents who invite us into their home. Requests are FREE to all Brazos addresses*.

Accepts Most Insurance • Same Day Appointments Available • Multilingual Office Staff

To Make An Appointment Call 832-255-6632 16959 Southwest Freeway, Suite 100 • Sugar Land, TX 77479

12 Issues a Year Delivered Free * Annual paid subscription required outside the Brazos areas. Call 281-690-4242.

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Advertorial

Rejuvenation and Wellness Rosenberg’s Guru of Detox Wellness Therapies and Colonics Brings Her Focus Back Home

S

ay the name Joyce Long, and chances are that at least one in every five Houstonians know about her awesome hands or therapies. For the last 24 years, Joyce Long’s focus has primarily been her Galleria location. Her free time has been dedicated to wounded warriors and hospice patients at her Fort Bend County location.

Originally from Rosenberg, Joyce knew from a young age that there was more out there beyond the borders of Rosenberg. She has had a vast amount of experiences and has worn many hats through the years. When Joyce developed some health issues in her 20s, she began to educate herself.

Through many hours of training and work, Joyce earned her health, along with many titles and certifications. From Nationally Certified Colon Hydrotherapist Instructor to Certified International Pastoral Medicine Practitioner, it’s no wonder why people all over the world seek out Joyce for her amazing gifts and vast knowledge of health. Most recently, she received several of the U.S. Commerce Association (USCA) Best of Local Business awards for massage in 2011 and 2012 and colon hydrotherapy in 2012. With referrals from 20 doctors and three hospitals, Joyce has built a worldwide clientele.

Now is the time for Fort Bend County to experience the benefits of Joyce’s vast knowledge of internal balance and detoxification through lymphatic massage and colonics. For more information on Joyce Long’s services, visit www.joycelong.biz, and click on the media page tab, or call 713-623-0866 to schedule an appointment.

Timeless Plastic Surgery: The Center of Excellence for Cosmetic Surgery

T

imeless Plastic Surgery provides all individuals with outstanding concierge-like services and procedures. The main goal of Timeless Plastic Surgery is to empower women and men with knowledge, choices and alternatives for surgical and non-surgical treatments. By doing so, patients can make educated choices that reflect their needs and values to achieve satisfaction in all areas of their lives, as well as restore confidence. Timeless Plastic Surgery strives to provide what the patient wants, when they want it, reasonably and safely, with knowledge and skill.

Timeless Plastic Surgery specializes exclusively in all cosmetic surgical and non-surgical procedures such as breast augmentations; breast lifts and reductions; tummy tucks (Timeless Tuck); liposuction; arm, eyelid, face, chin, brow and neck lifts; labiaplasty; rhinoplasty; dimple creation (Timeless Dimple); Botox and fillers.

If you are looking for a compassionate and understanding cosmetic surgeon who has experience, knowledge and skill, call 281-242-TIME (8463) to schedule your free consultation. For more information and to view pages of real patient testimonials and beautiful before and after photos, visit www.TimelessPlasticSurgery. com.

JOYCE LONG’S

A wide variety of Holistic health services since 1989

Colonic - Detox - Lymphatic - Massage Institute Massage Therapies • Reflexology • Colon Hydrotherapy and many other Holistic Treatments 1308 James Street • Rosenberg, TX 77471 by appointment only

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713-623-0866

JANUARY 2014 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

Rejuvenation and Wellness

Advertorial

Timeless Tuck Before

Center of Excellence for Cosmetic Surgery

PLASTIC

SURGERY

After

Peter Chang, M.D.

Ankur Mehta, M.D.

TimelessPlasticSurgery.com 281-242-TIME (8463) 1327 Lake Pointe Pkwy, Ste. 300 • Sugar Land, Tx 77478

Strong Bones

|

Healthy Joints

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UPCOMING

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You deserve a strong pain free lifestyle!

A unique, natural way to improve bone health, balance & strength.

Valentine’s Gift Guide Members Are Seeing Amazing Results for:

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Call Now For Your Appointment 281-762-0944 | 1876 FM 359 | Richmond, TX (Next to Sonic) www.OsteoStrong.me

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Smile Docs Look for them in the February issue!

To advertise, call 281.690.4242.

www.absolutelybrazos.com l JANUARY 2014

29

Advertorial

Rejuvenation and Wellness

A SEA OF SMILES AWAITS!

Protect Teeth with a Proper Mouthguard

O

• Most major insurances accepted • TVs in treatment rooms • Video games in waiting room • After School & Saturday hours • Interceptive Orthodontics • State-of-the-art facility • In office oral and IV sedation • Digital charting/x-rays • Se Habla Español

rganized youth sports have gained tremendous popularity in recent years. More children are participating in some form of team competition. This organized activity is great for both the physical and mental development of children; however, precautions should be taken to ensure safety. Most sports provide or require some form of protective equipment, which varies from activity to activity.

One type of protection that is frequently overlooked is the mouthguard. Athletic mouthguards have been used for years to offer protection to the oral cavity.

Recently, certain custom mouthguards have claimed some protection against concussions. Does your child have an appropriate mouthguard?

The cost of treatment for an avulsed or “knocked out” permanent tooth in the course of a lifetime can range from thousands to the tens of thousands of dollars. This does not take into account the pain involved, the loss of time for both the parent and child and the devastating esthetic concerns. The Academy of Sports Dentistry (ASD) and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) both recommend using a properly fitted custom mouthguard. To evaluate if your child needs a mouthguard or if your child has the correct mouthguard, visit your local pediatric dentist.

Faisal Khan, DDS of Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental is a Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist, Diplomat of Pediatric Dentistry and Fellow in Special Care Dentistry.

Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental is located at 7830 W. Grand Pkwy S., Suite 270 in Richmond. For more information, visit www.grandparkwaypediatricdental.com or call 832-222-TOTS.

Is OsteoStrong Too Good To Be True?

Faisal Khan, DDS, PLLC Diplomat of Pediatric Dentistry Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist Fellow in Special Care Dentistry

Check Out Our Google Reviews and Testimonials Online To See What Our Parents Are Saying About Our Office!!!

p. 832-222-TOTS (8687) f. 832-201-7929 www.grandparkwaypediatricdental.com 7830 W. Grand Parkway S, Suite 270 Richmond, TX 77406 30

O

steoStrong technology is a scientific breakthrough in the fitness industry and in the understanding of physical conditioning. A thousand year old concept – isometric exercise – that increases muscular strength gains in just 12 minutes a week has a lot of people shaking their heads. It does sound too good to be true.

But, didn’t the cell phone sound too good to be true as well?

A non-pharmaceutical option for bone health and strength, OsteoStrong technology is a proven treatment for reversing osteoporosis, osteopenia, fibromyalgia and joint and back pain. This stimulus also creates muscle growth and faster metabolism. It is ideally suit-

JANUARY 2014 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

Rejuvenation and Wellness

New Year, New You!

Advertorial

Complimentary Dermaplanning and Chemical Peel with purchase of any service ($175 value)

Botox • Dysport • Xeomin • Juvederm Radiesse • Restylane • Dermaplaning Chemical Peels • Laser Services Sclerotherapy • Clear & Brilliant Laser

Missi Gibbens, R.N.

713-458-0224

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Erasing Time, PLLC

707 S Fry Rd, (Medical Plaza II), Suite 285 Katy, TX 77450

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14441 Memorial Drive, Suite 6, Houston, TX 77079

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(Located between Kirkwood and Dairy Ashford)

713-829-0972

Providing the greater Houston area with over 25 years of aesthetic experience. ed for anyone from elderly individuals to high-performance athletes. State-ofthe-art cell sensors measure how much force is being produced and therefore track the muscular strength increases.

One-on-one sessions are closely monitored by a trained technician, and clients are given a performance report each week. OsteoStrong is designed for busy professionals who don’t have time for traditional workouts. This unique patented system is designed to safely create the right circumstances in order to trigger your own natural, adaptive response that will not leave you sweaty, fatigued or sore the next day.

It is surprisingly affordable and involves no contracts – just amazing results.

Is OsteoStrong too good to be true?

No! It’s the real deal. OsteoStrong is located at 1876 FM 359 in Richmond. Call 281-762-0944 to schedule your free session. For more information, visit www.

OsteoStrong.me or like them at www. facebook.com/osteostrongrichmond.

See ad on page 29.

Embrace Your Beauty

A

ll women want to exude confidence by feeling and looking their absolute best. Every woman has had that daunting moment in the dressing room when she realizes she has gone up in her clothing size – it happens! Most women are still trying to fit into those clothes that are a bit too tight. Why not do something for yourself and transform your body with a tummy tuck?

Sugar Land Plastic Surgery’s goal is to help women regain their confidence and become enthusiastic about taking care of themselves. Dr. John T. Nguyen helps bring back the reality of looking and feeling beautiful again with the tummy tuck. The tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, corrects diastasis recti by tightening the abdominal wall and removing excess skin and stretch marks; liposuction of the abdomen and flanks recreate a natural looking belly button.

Parenthood is one of the most fulfilling moments in any woman’s life, but the changes the body goes through can leave a woman feeling less than beautiful. The way the curves of a woman’s body are morphed during and after pregnancy sometimes cannot be corrected by the average diet and exercise.

The tummy tuck is a life-altering procedure meant for women of all ages who are looking for a positive transformation.

Dr. Nguyen and his staff strive for exceptional patient relationships and care. Visit Sugar Land Plastic Surgery for a complimentary consultation with Dr. Nguyen and his team, and discover a new and improved you! For more information, call 281-980-8000 or visit www.MyBodySurgeon.com.

See ad on page 7.

www.absolutelybrazos.com l JANUARY 2014

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Advertorial

Rejuvenation and Wellness Sugar Land Face and Body Plastic Surgery

S

ugar Land Face and Body Plastic Surgery would like to invite you to experience their new, state-of-the-art operating room. Prior to opening their operating room, Sugar Land Face and Body Plastic Surgery took the time to make sure all quality checks were in place.

It is important to Sugar Land Face and Body to have their patients feel 100 percent confident that they will be in the hands of a board certified plastic surgeon and an accredited facility. From the new staff, hand selected by Dr. Humble, to the luxurious facility, every detail has been thoroughly combed through to ensure an outstanding overall experience.

Dr. Humble and his staff have made a commitment to providing top quality, affordable care in a safe environment. The staff at Sugar Land Face and Body is committed to providing quality patient care. Sugar Land Face and Body Plastic Surgery’s new in-house operating room allows them to offer a more personal, concierge-oriented experience during the peri-operative period. This endeavor provides patients with the complete plastic surgery experience all under one roof.

Dr. Humble and his staff welcome you to visit their new facility and meet their wonderful staff at 16926 Southwest Freeway in Sugar Land. Come experience first class service and care at its finest. For more information, visit www.beautybecomesyou.com or call 281-313-0555.

See ad on page 1.

Sugar Land Women’s Health Personalized Compassionate Care for Women

• Adult and Adolescent Gynecology • Laparoscopic & da Vinci Robotic Hysterectomy • Minimally Invasive Surgeries • In-Office Procedures: Novasure, Essure, Hysteroscopy • Comprehensive Well Woman Care

Chau Nguyen-Tran, MD Board Certified Chairman OB-Pedi Dept. 2011 - 2013 Female Physician of the Year 2011 Medical Plaza at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land 17510 W. Grand Parkway South, Suite 430 Sugar Land, Texas 77479 713-578-3823 (Office) • 713-578-3827 (Vietnamese) www.chantalnguyentranmd.com

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JANUARY 2014 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

An Easy Way to Add Years to Your Life

W

hether your doctor has recommended that you increase your physical activity, or you just want to keep up with your children, walking is one of the easiest ways to improve your overall fitness. It also can add years to your life! For every hour of walking, life expectancy may increase by two hours, even if you start exercising in middle age.

“Walking is a great way to boost your heart health,” said Majid Basit, M.D., a cardiovascular disease specialist affiliated with Memorial Hermann and the South Texas Medical Clinics. “It creates new blood vessels in the heart and makes the heart a more efficient pump. I recommend walking 20 to 30 minutes at least three times a week.”

Schedule your walk on your calendar and treat it like any other important appointment. Involve an accountability partner. Take the stairs and park farther away from your destination. Download an app to monitor your progress.

There are countless ways to be successful, so just get started.

Walking helps reduce the risk of heart disease by as much as 30 to 40 percent in women. It also improves cholesterol levels and can help lower blood pressure. Physical activity like walking can reduce the risk of stroke by 20 to 27 percent in active individuals, depending on whether they are moderately or highly active.

For more keys to a healthy heart, join Dr. Basit at The Original Girls’ Night Out at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital on Thursday, February 27th from 6 to 8 pm. The event is free, but registration is required. Call 713-222CARE to reserve your place.

See ad on page back cover.

Advertorial

Considerations for Patients Who May Benefit from a Hysterectomy

T

he leading indication for hysterectomy in America is bleeding abnormalities most often caused by uterine fibroids. However, other problems can also require hysterectomy, including uterine prolapse, malignancy, pelvic inflammatory disease and pelvic pain. Methods of hysterectomy, which means to remove the uterus, plus or minus the cervix, range from abdominal, laparoscopic or vaginal to da Vinci robotics. Often times, recovery from the minimally invasive techniques involves small incisions and only an overnight hospitalization.

Whether or not the ovaries and tubes need to be removed at the same time depends on the woman’s age, personal/familial risks of cancer, indication for hysterectomy and personal preferences. The decision to remove the ovaries should involve a detailed consultation with the gynecologist to explain the risks and benefits to the procedure. Discussion should include symptoms of menopause that may result from having the ovaries removed in addition to options of natural lifestyle behavior, bio identical or prescription estrogen replacement therapy.

Before committing to the important decision of a hysterectomy, women should thoroughly understand the procedure, course of recovery and what benefits should result from it.

Sometimes there can be alternative options to a hysterectomy, so explore this with the doctor.

If hysterectomy is the ultimate recommendation, women should be proactive with their questions and concerns. Studies show that a substantial number of women who have hysterectomies report marked improvement of their presenting symptoms in addition to their overall physical and mental health.

For more information and to schedule an appointment, contact Dr. Nguyen-Tran at 713-578-3823.

MEDICAL FOCUS

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Uses Advanced 3D CT Scan Technology for Facial Reconstructive Surgery Bryan Godoy was a fit and healthy 17-year-old who is extremely active and passionate about sports. He had just graduated from high school and was looking forward to starting college when he was accidentally kicked in the face during a soccer game. The bones supporting his left eye and left face were shattered and deformed, pushed inwards by about an inch and pushing his Dr. Jon Mathy and Bryan Godoy. eye and jaw out of place.

“This was one of the worst fractures I have ever seen, even considering cases I have treated following car accidents and in patients who had been bucked in the face by a horse,” said Dr. Jon Mathy, a board certified plastic surgeon with additional subspecialty fellowship training in microvascular surgery and head and neck surgery at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. Because of specialists providing expert facial reconstruction surgery that uses cutting-edge 3D CT scan technology, Bryan’s bone fragments were systematically returned to their anatomic positions.

“We are pleased to provide these services to patients in the Fort Bend community who suffer traumatic facial injuries,” Mathy said. “In the past, patients in our area would have to travel to the medical center for complex facial reconstructive surgery.

Now, they can receive the same level of expert care close to home.” 3D CT scan technology provides Mathy with high-resolution, 3D renderings of a patient’s facial anatomy that he can use to plan individualized treatments to optimize their facial function and aesthetics.

After Bryan’s operation, the Imaging Department at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital performed a fine-cut, high-resolution CT scan of his craniofacial bones. These were stitched together into a 3D rendering that allowed Dr. Mathy to assess the outcome of the operation, including hardware positioning and facial symmetry.

“3D CT scan technology is extremely helpful from a reconstructive and cosmetic standpoint,” said Dr. Mathy. “It allowed me to evaluate Bryan’s facial bones in 3D CT scan rendering of Bryan’s three dimensions to ensure that we had restored the facial bones following surgery functional elements of his face important for vision and with hardware in place. eating. It also allowed me to optimize facial symmetry and aesthetic appearance. For Bryan, we were able to restore his appearance and correct the traumatic disfigurement that he had.”

Bryan is extremely pleased with the results. “I am so thankful for the level of expert care I received from Dr. Mathy and Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital,” said Bryan. “I can look in the mirror and feel good about myself again.”

For more information about Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, visit www. houstonmethodist.org/sugarland or call 281-274-7500. www.absolutelybrazos.com l JANUARY 2014

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OUT &

Honored veterans at The Rotary Club of Richmond’s November meeting received flags from Congressman Pete Olson’s office. These flags were flown over the capital on November 5th.

ABOUT IN THE HEART BRAZOS

Cora Thomas Elementary fourth grader Thomas Clay won an art contest for his freehand rendering of the historic 1897 jail, which is currently the home of the Richmond Police Department. Clay was presented with a miniature replica Richmond police badge lapel pin for his win.

Christian Biernot presented Jim Richard with a flag for his service in the Army.

Mayor Evalyn Moore accepted a flag in honor of her husband, the late Hilmar Moore.

Honored Veterans were Bob Sunday, Harold Mathis, Dennis McAffey, Adam Bartling, Julius Collins, Anthony L. Francis, Jon J. Eiche, Peary Perry and Carl Drozd.

Richmond Chief of Police Bill Whitworth and Thomas Clay show off the first place drawing.

Fort Bend Fencing Academy participated in the Jean Lafitte 8th Annual Classic Tournament. David Filder, Gleb Klepko, Ark Ma, Tiffany Au, Willow Shaw, Michael Willis and Nilay Ghandi were all winners. Congratulations!

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JANUARY 2014 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

Rosenberg’s OCuSOFT®, Inc. hosted a special Halloween event for the local community.

Over 60 children from Kidzville Learning Academy and Little Oaks Learning Center were treated to trick-or-treating throughout the facility, a class on the importance of eyelid hygiene and much more. In the spirit of Halloween, the entire OCuSOFT team dressed up in full costumes to hand out treats.

Mayor Vincent M. Morales, Jr. paid a visit to judge OCuSOFT’s annual company-wide costume contest.

The third place winner was Keisha Whitbey as the Queen of Hearts.

First place winners of the costume contest went to the Building Operations Team as Dorothy and the Wizard of Oz. Pictured are Rose Schraer, Irene Herrera, Monica Gonzales, Mayor Vincent M. Morales, Jr., Yolanda Cisneros, Dorthy Eakins, Kathy Owen, Juan Hernandez, Kathy Benkenstein and Shawn Davis.

Second place in the costume contest was awarded to the Three Blind Mice: Letty Nyberg, Marilyn Parker and Kay Carlin.

Mayor Vincent M. Morales, Jr., Cynthia Barratt and OCuSOFT mascot Molly.

Fulshear residents celebrated pumpkin season at Cross Creek Ranch with live music, a grape stomp, pumpkin decorating and a scarecrow contest at October’s Scarecrow Festival.

It was a fun time for everyone!

Callum and Amelie Seguin made themselves at home in the pumpkin patch.

Scott White came as a scarecrow and greeted people at the festival entrance.

Richie, Sebastian, Sophia and Cezar Quirotman were big fans of The Great Pumpkin Scarecrow.

Admiring the Mysticrow Scarecrow were Samantha, Calista and Miranda Schwab.

www.absolutelybrazos.com l JANUARY 2014

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OUT & ABOUT

The Historic Downtown Rosenberg Division of the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance hosted their second annual Trunk or Treat. Families came out to Historic Downtown Rosenberg for a fun afternoon of face painting, crafts, Halloween photos, a costume contest and a mini pumpkin patch and collected treats from trunk to trunk.

IN THE HEART BRAZOS

Jeff Messer greeted festival goers.

Grayson, Grant and Jana Simoneaux had a blast kicking off Halloween at Trunk or Treat.

The Young Professional Division of the Fort Bend Chamber hosted its 5th Annual Halloween Bash. Festivities included karaoke, a costume contest, great prizes and a spooktacular haunted house.

Shana Ghaya, Carol Jimenez, Karla Vasquez and Maria Martinez.

Brandon Rowe as Breaking Bad’s Walter White and Gilbert Limones as the Tooth Fairy visited at the bash.

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Cheering on the Dallas Cowboys were fans Claudette Bird, Susan Goglia and Jan Munier.

JANUARY 2014 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

The pirate and his mate were Claude and Crystal Hedspeth.

Sheena Stavinoha and Leigh Ann Dawson.

Frost Elementary PTO hosted another amazing Boo Bash with costume contests, lots of games and a haunted house. A new addition this year was the Frost Photobooth featuring a camouflaged skeleton!

PTO Board Members Michelle Colledge, Kris Haines, Rachel Taysome, Heather Carroll, Gloria Couch and Monica Lloyd joined the photobooth fun.

Mackenzie Palmer and Madison Soto.

Students at Calvary Episcopal School and College Prep invited families and community members to share in their annual Veterans Day program on November 11th to honor and entertain local veterans. As a finale, the entire Calvary student body turned and saluted veterans as they sang God Bless America.

Ryan Kitto and Jarrett Douthitt.

The Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance hosted their annual Champagne and Ponies Blender at Pecan Acres Polo Club in Fulshear.

Attendees enjoyed a competitive polo match, food, drinks and a great after party.

Diana Neely and Ty Coburn discussed the various types of beer produced by the Fort Bend Brewing Company.

Eighth graders Brianna Pham, Jensen Jameson, Esmatu Kamara, Sarah Karlberg, Lauren Voyles and Declan Fortune.

Logan, Garrett, Ronald and Trevor Curry.

Dianna Terry, Pam Jones and Kim Stacy enjoyed the beautiful, crisp fall evening.

www.absolutelybrazos.com l JANUARY 2014

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OUT &

Rosenberg’s Legacy Ford hosted the Tinsel & Treasures Art Show and Marketplace benefiting the Texana Center. The event featured vendors, refreshments from area restaurants and a performance by harpist Vicki Latham.

ABOUT IN THE HEART BRAZOS

Legacy Ford’s Ron Ewer and Eloise Lucas welcomed guests to the event, which took place on the Legacy showroom floor.

Evelyn Moore visited with artist Charlie Weiss, who showcased his original painting of Richmond’s Moore Home along with several of his other works at the art show.

Landry Heath and Sharon Lutz enjoyed shopping for holiday goodies.

Bob and Susan Hargarther participated as vendors and visited with Texana’s George Patterson.

Sugar Land Face and Body presented The Glitz & Glam Holiday Soirée featuring a variety of skin care and spa giveaways.

Guests donned their holiday chic attire and enjoyed wine and hors d’oeuvres by BLU. Tiffany Lara and Angela Garza.

Georgia Dragonir, Maggy Horgan, Lin Humble and Michelle Christ.

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Lin and Eric Humble with Allison Grover.

Maria Ramos, Chela Garcia, Amanda Parrish and Ileanna Loubser.

JANUARY 2014 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

NEWSWORTHY

Second Annual Reading Between the Wines Coming in February What a wonderful concoction! Join the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County for the second annual Reading Between the Wines event presented by Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land and Safari Texas. Celebrate your love of literacy with books, wine, authors, food, auctions and more on Friday, February 7th at Safari Texas.

The evening begins with guests enjoying a glass of wine while listening to featured authors speaking about their latest releases. The New York Times Best Selling authors joining the event this year are Linda Castillo, Julia Heaberlin and Paulette Jiles. Guest authors include Nathan Barber, Kathy Duval and Betty Verdino. From there, guests will have the opportunity to purchase books from Blue Willow Book Shop, visit with the authors and have their books autographed. Moving into the main ballroom, guests can enjoy gourmet bites provided by several local restaurants while listening to live music. A live auction, big board and dessert dash are also included in

Heather Reichert, Kelli Metzenthin and Cari Middaugh with Presenting Sponsors Don Kerstetter, Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land and Allison Wen, Safari Texas.

the evening’s events. It will be a magnificent evening of good food, fine wine and entertainment for all.

Sponsorship opportunities are currently available and range from $500 to $5,000. Sponsor benefits include admission to a pre-event reception with the authors, reserved premier seating, complimentary program advertisement and more. Individual admission is $100.

For more information, email Cari Middaugh at the Literacy Council at cmiddaugh@ftbendliteracy.org or call 281-2408181.

BRAZOS • FORT BEND • KATY • MEMORIAL

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absolutely!

AUTO REVIEW

By Steve Kursar

2014 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE TDI T

he 2014 Volkswagen Beetle TDI is a thoroughly modern vehicle that holds a strong resemblance to the car that first hit the road back in 1938. The “Bug” was instantly recognizable, and it went on to become hugely popular worldwide.

But, although times caught up to the original rear-engine, air-cooled model, the iconic shape continues to live on in a new version that is loads of fun to drive.

This Beetle is actually the third generation of the car. In 1997, VW introduced the second generation on the vehicle which they called the New Beetle. Its exterior design was very round and curvy and easy to love. Unlike the original; however, this one had

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a front engine with the truck in the rear. It was highly popular with women and even boasted a small plastic flower vase on the dashboard.

The newest generation Beetle is decidedly more masculine in its exterior design with a lower, wider stance and sharper angles to the sheet metal. It also drives much more like a sports car, which makes sense since it shares a platform with the Audi TT. The interior is remarkable roomy in the front row so don’t expect the rear passengers to be happy on a long road trip.

The base Beetle, with a MSRP of $19,995, is powered by a 170 hp, 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine that gets estimated EPA fuel economy of 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The R-Line Beetle will cost you about $5,000 more and comes with a 200 hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. Both are available with either manual or automatic transmissions.

JANUARY 2014 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

But the real star of the Beetle lineup is the clean-diesel 140 hp, 2.0-liter turbodiesel TDI with an MSRP of $24,195.

If you still think of diesel engines as loud and smelly, you need to test drive a modern diesel. It’s remarkably quiet and refreshingly peppy. And, with fuel economy numbers of 29 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway, you can go two weeks without filling up.

You can easily drive the roundtrip from Houston to Dallas on one tank of fuel.

If you’re shopping for a fun vehicle that will turn heads but not break your budget, the 2014 VW Beetle should be on your list of vehicles to test drive.

Follow Steve Kursur at KursarOnCars. blogspot.com.

In Print • Online • In Person

We’re absolutely enthusiastic over community magazines. They allow us to come into your homes and focus on what’s important to you – your community.

So what’s the power of community magazines? They’re absolutely free, they’re absolutely timely, and they’re absolutely available 24/7 when you want to read them. And best of all, they are delivered right to your door.

Whether you live in greater Fort Bend, Katy, Me m o r i a l o r B r a z o s , absolutely! focus media brings you the power of print – absolutely free, focused on people, places and happenings – focused on where you live.

Reading your community magazine – it’s easier than a click.

absolutely! focus media 281.690.4242 | www.absolutelyfocusmedia.com

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Once Again

Antiques H Collectibles H Fine Gifts, Etc. Enter As Strangers... Leave As Friends!

Once Again brings together dealers, collectors & artisans to provide an all around shopping experience.

Purchasing, Repairs and Upgrades Computer System Maintenance Networking and Workgroups Virus and Spyware Removal Home Media Systems Electronic Recycling Training

“Where The Studio Comes To You” •Family/Portraiture •Wedding •Commercial/Product Located in Fort Bend County

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Hours: Wed – Sat 10-5 • Sun 12-5 Historic Downtown Rosenberg 801 3rd Street Rosenberg • 281-232-3955 www.shoponceagain.com

Historic Downtown Rosenberg Jams, Jellies & Salsas Hand-made in Rosenberg

Boutique Wines & Craft Beer New Outside Patio

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Cosmetic & Family Dentistry We See Kids Too!

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Digital denture, 281-239-3900 1301 FM 2218, Suite 500B better fit & Richmond, TX 77469 design www.smilesmart.com

800 Third Street • Downtown Rosenberg Hours: Wed, Thur, Sun 11-5 • Fri, Sat 11-8 www.AnotherTime SodaFountain.com

Birthdays • Weddings • Baby Showers Rose Rich Largest Party Store with Everything You Need for Your Next Party or Event

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After-School Pick Up from Thomas, Williams & Meyer Elementary

“Where Children Learn and Grow” 281-239-2110

814 FM 2977 Rd. • Richmond , TX 77469

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Fort Bend Fencing Academy Manuel S. Rodriguez - Coach/Owner Instruction in the Olympic Sport of Fencing Beginner to Advanced Levels Mobile: (832) 457-4431 www.fortbendfencingacademy.com Email: manuel.rodrigu0868@sbcglobal.net

Vogelsang Antique Emporium Historic Downtown Rosenberg’s Premier Experience

Antiques Collectibles Home Decor Specialty Items Live Theatre Events Hall 1909 Avenue G. Rosenberg, Texas 77471 • 281.342.6804 Wed-Sat 10 am - 5pm • Sun 1 - 5 pm

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A LITTLE PIECE O F H I S T O RY

By Joan Frances Photos from the Fort Bend County Museum.

“Cemeteries are full of unfulfilled dreams... countless echoes of ‘could have’ and ‘should have’… countless books unwritten… countless songs unsung... I want to live my life in such a way that when my body is laid to rest, it will be a well needed rest from a life well lived, a song well sung, a book well written, opportunities well explored, and a love well expressed.” – Steve Maraboli Established in 1825, Morton Cemetery is the final resting place of more than 2,800 individuals.

Morton Cemetery:

A Legacy of the Past

C

omplete with intrigue and mystery, the fascination with century old cemeteries has a devoted following. Hand-carved tombstones, blackened with age, told and untold stories of birth and death entice the observer to question the purpose of life.

When night falls, the eeriness creeps in, shadows follow and the cemetery comes alive. Death is a part of our history, but it is in life that history is made.

When the first settlers came to the Fort Bend area with their families, they were met with many challenges. Indians, wild animals, weather, rough terrain and the need for shelter were only a few of the dangers of this new world.

Survival of the fittest became reality, and many deaths occurred. Persistence and drive continued to fuel these ambitious people, towns were built and commerce began to improve living conditions. Names synonymous with courage and leadership emerged such as Stephen F. Austin and his original 300 colonists, who set the pace for prosperity by organizing and orchestrating buildings that would safeguard the people.

In November 1821, the first fort was built at the bend of the Brazos River near Richmond by five men from Austin’s colony. This fort kept supplies and served as protection against Indian attack. Near the fort lived a man by the name of William Morton, who was considered the first actual settler in Fort Bend County. He owned a league (4,428

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acres) and a labor (177 acres) of land with his family and started the first cemetery in the area.

In 1825, a critically injured man named Robert Gillespie arrived at the Morton home in need of care. Since he was a Mason, as was Morton, they attempted to save him, but he succumbed on November 7th. Gillespie was buried on the Morton property with a

Morton Cemetery occupies more than 15 acres in Richmond.

handmade brick tomb over his grave, the first known Masonic landmark in Texas. It survived the test of time, deteriorated and eventually was restored by the Masonic Lodge in 1936. This plot of land was the first of many significant grave sites where illustrious pioneers were laid to rest. William Morton disappeared during the flood of 1833. Unfortunately, his body was never recovered.

Nancy, his widow, sold the land to Robert Handy and William Lusk, promoters of the town of Richmond. For the next forty years, the land was bought and sold by several individuals. In 1855, Michael DeChaumes purchased the property and renamed the land DeChaumes Cemetery.

JANUARY 2014 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com

From 1897 to 1943, the Morton Masonic Lodge owned and operated the plot known as Richmond Cemetery Association. Later re-named in honor of the original owner, Morton Cemetery continued to be the final resting place for respected leaders including the Moore family, Jane Long, considered the mother of Texas, Mirabeau B. Lamar, the first Vice President and second President of the Republic of Texas, as well as Walter Burton, a freed slave who was on the Texas Senate. Albert P. and Mamie E. George are also buried there among others.

Today, Morton Cemetery is located on 15+ acres of beautifully landscaped property and is the final resting place for over 2,800 individuals. Morton Cemetery Association maintains the cemetery with peaceful settings and inviting grounds. With so many people sacrificing so much to contribute to the growth of Fort Bend, it is fittingly respectful to take great care in preserving this historical landmark. Dreams that the colonists had that were fulfilled, a wellneeded rest from a life well-lived.

Among the respected leaders buried at Morton Cemetery are John and Lottie Moore.

INSIDE BACK

BREAKING NEW GROUND. IN HEALTH CARE. AND IN SUGAR LAND. Announcing our latest commitment to innovation and to the community: a $93 million expansion of Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital.

In three phases, over the next three years, we are making incredible changes.

Including a 100,000-square-foot professional office building (coming 2014) and a 120,000-square-foot patient tower (coming 2016). Cutting-edge technology, extended sports medicine services and over 160 new staff members are just a few of the many improvements you can expect. It’s better for Sugar Land and better for your health. Visit memorialhermann.org. Memorial Hermann. Advancing Health.

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