July-August 2023 - Absolutely Brazos Magazine

Our sports medicine specialists can help keep your body in motion.

At Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, we know every movement matters. Our board-certified sports medicine specialists in Sugar Land offer:

• The latest imaging and technology

• Advanced nonsurgical treatments

• Minimally invasive procedures

• State-of-the-art physical and occupational therapy

Whether you’re suffering from simple aches and pains or dealing with a complex injury, we can get you back on your feet — and keep you moving.

Gildardo Ceballos at OakBend Medical

Photo by Kelley Sweet Photography.

EXCLAMATION POINTS!

Associate Publisher, KAY GARRETT

Summer is Sizzling!

Wow! This year’s summer heat is definitely one for the record books! I love summer and the great outdoors, lazy days filled with sunshine, trips to the beach, relaxing by the pool and adventures at the park. However, with these extra high temperatures, going anywhere without air conditioning is next to impossible. Although it is hot as heck, you can still find me sitting by my pool or out fishing somewhere. I hope you are out enjoying something fun this summer, despite the record heat!

July 4th will be heating up, and what could be more exciting than celebrating our nation’s birth right here in Fort Bend! George Ranch Historical Park, the City of Rosenberg and the City of Needville will each host a July 4th event, perfect for friends, family and fun. For information on these events, see page 22.

Summer is sizzling and so is fishing! While Kay Garrett was fishing in Matagorda Bay, she caught a 20” trout!

OakBend Medical Center’s Jack and Billie Wendt Acute Care for the Elderly (ACE) Unit has officially reopened bringing a new sense of normalcy to the healthcare facility. The ACE Unit was specifically designed to cater to the unique needs of elderly patients and provide exceptional care while having a home-like atmosphere. This multidisciplinary approach provides a team of experts, from physical therapists, nurses to dieticians and physicians, all working together to create an environment for mobility and independence. We are so lucky to have OakBend Medical Center’s ACE Unit right here in our community! To find out more about OakBend’s ACE Unit and all it has to offer, read our cover story on page 6.

I hope your summer has been filled with family, friends and most of all, fun. Happy 4th of July to all of our Brazos community. Thank you to all servicemen past and present for the sacrifice you make each day to keep us safe and our country free!

Absolutely yours, Kay

Garrett

kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

READER FEEDBACK

Dear Tim and Patti,

Our 2023 Derby Day Party was more than we could have imagined! Without supporters like you, we would not have been able to hit our record-breaking numbers. This year we raised over $340,000! Thank you for generously donating the case of wine for our Pier 36 private dinner.

Thank you for all that you do!

R.D., Heather, Kaitlin, Dana, Stephanie and Gaby Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship

Vol. 11 No. 4

JULY/AUGUST 2023

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School Safety with Fort Bend County Superintendents

The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce’s Education Division will host School Safety with Fort Bend County Superintendents on Friday, August 4th from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm at the Chamber office, located at 445 Commerce Green Blvd. in Sugar Land.

School safety for the students, staff and faculty in Fort Bend County is a priority for Superintendents Dr. Roosevelt Nivens, Lamar Consolidated ISD; Dr. Christie Whitbeck, Fort Bend ISD and Dr. Robert Bostic, Stafford MSD. Moderated by Jim Rice, Education Division Chair, Rice & Gardner Consultants, Inc., the program is designed to share what each district is is doing to ensure the safety of all. This event is sponsored by DBR Engineering, Dearborn & Creggs, Jamail & Smith Construction, LP, Pfluger Architects and VLK Architects.

Registration and sponsorships are now open for Fort Bend Chamber members. The Event Sponsor is $500 and includes seating for five, company logo on marketing materials and social platforms and recognition during event. Individual member reservations are $25 and include an individual reservation at the event. Details of upcoming events can be found at www. FortBendChamber.com or contact Rebekah Beltran Rebekah@fortbendcc. org.

The Education Division of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce is under the leadership of Chair Jim Rice, Rice & Gardner Consultants, Inc. The Education Division’s passion is building awareness and connections between the business sector, community leaders and education. By keeping its members engaged with current events impacting education on a local and national level, the division’s goal is to create opportunities for individuals to invest in education.

Explore the forest canopy – indoors! At the museum’s newest handson exhibition, visitors roam from tree to tree as they discover the many habitats that trees provide for animals large and small. Climb through large treehouses, become an animal tracker, get face-to-face with wildlife of all sizes, move your feet on the forest-sound dance floor, and more!

May 26 – September 4

For tickets and information, visit hmns.org/treehouses This exhibition is proudly supported by Fort Bend Junior Service League

Dr. Roosevelt Nivens, Lamar Consolidated ISD

Dr. Christie Whitbeck, Fort Bend ISD

Dr. Robert Bostic, Stafford MSD

ACE Unit Reopens

COVER STORY

By Tanya Sterling

Photos by Kelley Sweet Photography

OakBend Medical Center’s Jack and Billie Wendt Acute Care for the Elderly (ACE) Unit has officially reopened its doors, ushering in a new sense of normalcy to the healthcare facility. The ACE Unit, specially designed to cater to the unique needs of elderly patients, is dedicated to providing exceptional care while promoting a home-like atmosphere and involving families in the care process. With a multidisciplinary approach that includes a team of experts, including physical therapists, nurses, dieticians, pharmacists and physicians, our ACE Unit aims to create a care environment that enhances mobility and independence, reduces hospital length of stay, reduces readmissions, optimizes overall well-being and ensures patient comfort and dignity.

A Legacy Serving Fort Bend’s Elderly

As it reopens, the ACE Unit carries on its legacy of operating with specific goals in mind, all centered around improving the quality of life for elderly patients. OakBend’s ACE Unit strives to counteract functional decline and immobility, two common challenges faced by seniors in hospital settings. Additionally, the ACE team is dedicated to preventing or reducing falls, skin breakdown and delirium, which can greatly impact the health and recovery of elderly patients. By prioritizing patient safety and timely discharges to home, our ACE Unit provides a care approach that strategically addresses the unique needs of older adults.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of OakBend Medical Center, Joe Freudenberger, reminisces about the genesis of the unit.

“We were doing some research on the approach to improve hospital care for the elderly and found some persuasive research suggesting that shorter lengths of stay helps all patients, but especially the elderly, lose less functional capacity. In lay terms, when you lay around in bed, your muscles weaken, and that includes your heart and lungs. Getting folks to walk, engage in activities and socialize helps mitigate some of the loss of capacity that comes from being hospitalized,” said Freudenberger. “There are actually nursing protocols developed at a number of institutions, most notably Harvard Medical School, called Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders (NICHE) protocols, which guide us in this model of care.”

Dr. Gildardo Ceballos and OakBend Medical Center Chief Executive Officer Joe Freudenberger.

Personalized Treatment Plans

The newly reopened unit’s approach enables patients to benefit from personalized treatment plans, which are regularly evaluated and adjusted by the healthcare team to meet the patient’s evolving needs.

Our ACE Unit care team is led by Dr. Gildardo Ceballos, a board-certified Internal Medicine specialist, whose excellence as a physician is only matched by his compassion. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Dr. Ceballos provides comprehensive care to patients aged 18 and older in both outpatient and hospital settings. He, along with his wife and son, are proud residents of Fort Bend County.

“When elderly patients first arrive at our Acute Care for the Elderly Unit, they may be experiencing an acute illness, injury or exacerbation of chronic conditions. It’s important to recognize that every patient’s situation is unique, and some individuals may experience limitations in their recovery due to the nature of their conditions or other factors,” said Dr. Ceballos as he reflected on how he and his team approach each patient’s care upon entering and exiting the unit. “Additionally, the support and resources available in the Acute Care for the Elderly Unit setting has been shown to influence the patient’s outcome for the better. The ACE unit does many positive things for the patient, and one of those is the marked difference in dignity and independence between their arrival and departure from our ACE Unit, a differ-

Five Tips for Navigating Senior Care

Caring for the elderly can be rewarding yet challenging. Here are five valuable tips to navigating senior care.

Communication is key: Maintain open lines with loved ones, healthcare professionals and support networks. Listen, address concerns and involve them in decisionmaking.

Promote a safe environment: Ensure a hazard-free living space by removing dangers, installing handrails, lighting and non-slip mats. Regularly assess and modify their home.

ence that makes a far bigger impact than one might realize to the recovery of the patient.”

Designed Specifically for the Elderly

Fall prevention is a top priority in ACE units, and the design of OakBend’s ACE Unit reflects this commitment. Handrails are strategically placed throughout the unit, and non-skid flooring surfaces help prevent falls. The unit is equipped with senior-friendly features, including elevated toilets, grab bars, emergency pulls in bathrooms and large, easily readable clocks and signage.

Encourage healthy habits: Foster exercise, balanced diet, hydration and mental stimulation through activities, hobbies and social engagement.

Medication management: Organize schedules, assist with refills, ensure compliance and keep records of medications, allergies and emergency contacts.

Seek professional assistance: Consult OakBend’s expert team, including geriatricians, dietitians, physical therapists, pharmacists, case managers and trained nurse managers. They specialize in the unique needs of the elderly, providing personalized support for wellbeing and quality of life.

At OakBend, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care for seniors and helping them age with grace. Our Acute Care for the Elderly (ACE) Unit is committed to the well-being and holistic care of the elderly, ensuring they receive the compassion and attention they deserve.

For more information, visit www.oakbendmedcenter.org to learn more about our dedicated team of professionals.

Dr. Gildardo Ceballos.

The physical therapy area in the Jack and Billie Wendt Acute Care for the Elderly Unit.

The beds are lower and designed for increased mobility, while night lights ensure patient safety. For those requiring extra supervision, video monitoring is available, and thicker mattresses help prevent pressure ulcers.

Creating a warm and welcoming environment is crucial as the ACE Unit reopens, and its physical space contributes to patient comfort and well-being. The OakBend ACE Unit achieves this by incorporating a home-like ambiance with modern furnishings, indirect lighting, classical music, a comfortable family gathering area with large fish tanks and a peaceful atmosphere. The unit also offers opportunities for socialization through a communal dining room, where patients can enjoy three meals a day while interacting with fellow patients and visiting family members.

Physical therapy plays a vital role in the recovery process for elderly patients. Patients are encouraged to walk at least twice daily, and physical therapy sessions are available both in group settings and one-on-one. These sessions take place in an open common area, allowing families to actively participate and support their loved ones during their rehabilitation.

“On a personal level,” said Freudenberger, “my father was hospitalized a few times in our ACE Unit, and I saw firsthand the benefits of the model.”

Medication education is another essential aspect as many elderly patients take multiple prescribed medications. The medical team and pharmacists collaborate and review each patient’s medication list, ensuring the prevention of harmful drug interactions. Educating patients about their medications enhances their understanding and enables them to avoid any complications associated with their treatment.

An Engaging, Communal Environment Promoting Healing

The physical environment of the ACE Unit distinguishes it from other units. The unit features non-glare wood-look flooring, modern furnishings, handrails, indirect lighting and a warm, non-institutional color palette. The open floor plan fosters interaction between patients, their families and clinical caregivers. A lower nurse’s station facilitates better communication and engagement.

Patients experience numerous benefits that enhance their recovery process in the ACE Unit. Ambulation, or the ability to walk independently, plays a crucial role in their rehabilitation journey. With multiple physical therapy sessions, including group exercises in the common area, admitted patients have the opportunity to improve their mobility and interact with others.

Staying physically active and socially connected is essential for individuals of all ages, especially for older adults. Regular physical activity benefits the heart, aids in weight loss and helps alleviate chronic pain. Strength and resistance training can also improve bone and muscle strength, counteracting the effects of frailty often associated with aging. Additionally, maintaining social connections has a positive and significant impact on seniors’ overall wellness. Thus, for seniors undergoing surgery or hospitalization, seeking treatment at a facility that encourages social interaction is crucial.

“On a personal level,” said Dr. Ceballos, “these items make me the most satisfied with the existence of the ACE Unit: Improved patient care that enhances patient outcomes and quality of life and that offers medical professionals, such as myself, an opportunity to use a multidisciplinary approach to patient care that includes more comprehensive and holistic practices.”

The OakBend Medical Center ACE Unit partly owes its existence and ongoing enhancements to the generosity of the late philanthropist and community leader Billie Wendt. Mrs. Wendt, who served as a life member on the Polly Ryon Hospital Board of Trustees, made significant contributions to Fort Bend County, including OakBend Medical Center. In recognition of her and her late husband’s lifelong support, the ACE Unit was renamed the Jack and Billie Wendt Acute Care for the Elderly (ACE) Unit in 2016. This honor reflects their past commitment to the community and their dedication to providing excellent healthcare for the elderly.

OakBend Medical Center is proud to offer a NICHE facility and is the only ACE Unit in Fort Bend County. For more information or to contact the newly reopened ACE Unit at OakBend Medical Center, please call 281.341.3000 or visit https://oakbendmedcenter.org/ace-unit/

Eleojo Oyebode, RN and Ruizine Garcia, RN at the ACE Unit’s Nursing Station.

The home-like ambience of the OakBend ACE Unit offers a comfortable family gathering area for socialization.

The pandemic changed so much in our community, and that’s especially true with our Non-Profit Organizations. As fall approaches, let our community know what’s going on with your organization – and how we can help – with this special issue featuring significantly reduced rates for all Non-Profits.*

the drunken cyclist

By Jeffrey M. Kralik, Ph.D. www.thedrunkencyclist.com

Summer is upon us, and for me, that means it is wine-drinking season. Okay, it is always the season to drink wine in my house, but I needed some sort of tie-in to summer, because summer is a great time to ramp up our wine-themed tastings and parties. The kids are out of school, the boss might be on vacation, and well, no one really does any work in the summer months, so we might as well pop a few corks.

Since as long as I have been into wine, we have hosted get-togethers, dinners and tastings centered around fermented grape juice. Over the years, I have learned the five simple steps to hosting the “perfect” wine event.

Determine the degree of seriousness. In other words, are you wanting more of a party with a slew of wines to try? More of an actual tasting, as you hope to learn more about wine? Or are you interested in hosting a more formal affair so that you can get your “wine geek” on?

Choose a theme. It can be simple or complicated, but the theme is absolutely the next step. Some examples are:

Price: Select a relative price range – under $15, $2040, over $30 – and leave it at that.

Variety: Compare the same variety – Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon – from different regions or vintages.

Region: Gather different wines from the same relative spot on the globe. It can be as general as “France” or as specific as “Burgundy Grand Cru.” (No need to invite me to the first one, but you must invite me to the second.)

Food Pairing: “Barbecue Wines,” “Wine with Oysters,” or “Korean Cuisine.” A word of advice: Don’t bother with that last one; I have been trying to figure it out for years.

Of course, you could come up with something else or combine two or more themes, such as “German Rieslings under $30 to pair with Korean BBQ.” Don’t laugh, that was actually one of my tastings. I also strongly suggest tasting the wines “blind” which does not involve blindfolds, but rather placing each wine in a numbered paper bag and not revealing the identities until the end of the tasting. It adds a bit of mystery into our otherwise drab existence.

Determine the number of guests. Each standard 750ml bottle contains 25 ounces of wine, which means you could have eight pours of three ounces each, about half the “normal” pour one gets in a restaurant. So, if you want to have more than eight people (don’t forget to include yourself!) at the tasting, you are going to need a second bottle of each wine.

Select the wine glasses. Ideally, all of the glasses would be the same, and you would have enough so that each guest could have two glasses, so as to compare wines side-by-side. I often try to provide two glasses per couple, since I assume they are not averse to sharing glasses, but these days, you never know.

Food selection. If you want to be merry, you can’t just drink, you also have to eat, so providing some sort of food at the event is essential. My advice? Keep it relatively straight-forward and avoid overly spicy or vinegar-laden dishes since both will detract from the wine. It is a good idea to have the food ready and available from the start of the event. Consuming a bunch of wine on an empty stomach is something I tried in college; that did not go so well.

That pretty much covers it, but some additional considerations include:

Have a dump or spit bucket. I know it sounds pretty disgusting, but I consider it essential to any tasting. No one may use it, but you should have it just in case.

Don’t fret too much about glasses. Wine geeks (like me) tend to freak out about the quality of the glasses, but you probably don’t want to be friends with them anyway. As long as you have enough glasses, and they are all pretty much the same, you should be fine.

Don’t be afraid to farm it out. Have your guests each bring a bottle that meets the tasting criteria. I have also had wine dinners that were potlucks, and everyone brought a dish. It all depends on how much control you need to have.

Still overwhelmed? Consult a professional to help you. I happen to know a good one: me.

Reach me at jeff@thedrunkencyclist.com.

Have fun. Remember: Wine is a beverage. A beverage.

Medical Focus

Health Care News You Can Use

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Performs First New Heart Failure Monitoring Device Implant in Fort Bend County

tell the nervous system how to regulate heart, kidney and vascular function. These effects reduce the heart’s workload and help it pump more efficiently, helping to restore balance to the autonomic nervous system and improve the symptoms of heart failure. Barostim plus heart failure medications have been shown to improve exercise capacity, quality of life and help patients return to their daily activities.1

“The cardiology team at Houston Methodist Sugar Land is steadfast in our commitment to give our patients access to the latest cardiovascular innovations to treat heart failure,” said Tripathy. “This device allows us to provide more treatment options for patients who are already on medications for heart failure. We are excited to offer this treatment and to witness the improvements of our patients’ quality of life.” Since the first procedure, Tripathy has also completed a second successful Barostim implant. Both patients have an improved quality of life measurement from the heart failure standpoint.

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is the first hospital in Fort Bend County to perform a successful implant of Barostim Baroreflex Activation Therapy™, an FDA-approved heart failure device to use neuromodulation. The device is implanted into the wall of the carotid artery, sending electrical pulses to special sensors in the heart that are responsible for transmitting blood pressure information to the brain.

The procedure took place at Houston Methodist Sugar Land and was performed by Dr. Uttam Tripathy, board-certified cardiothoracic surgeon. The patient had a history of heart failure and difficulty with breathing and walking. Since receiving the implantable device, the patient is now able to walk to the park and attend games with his daughters.

Unlike other heart failure device therapies like pacemakers or defibrillators, Barostim does not require hardware in the heart or vasculature. It works by electrically stimulating baroreceptors – natural sensors located in the wall of the carotid artery – that

Heart failure is a chronic, progressive condition in which the heart muscle is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs for blood and oxygen. Essentially, the heart can’t keep up with its workload. People with heart failure often experience shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in lower extremities, weakness and the reduced ability to perform physical activity. In the US, heart failure is estimated to affect 6.9 million adults and is expected to increase by 24% to nearly 8.5 million by 2030.2 Overall, heart failure is associated with a four-fold increased risk of death and six to nine times increased risk of sudden cardiac death.

Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center is a nationally recognized leader in the diagnosis and treatment of heart disease. The Heart & Vascular Center offers a variety of specialty clinics and programs to treat a wide spectrum of cardiovascular diseases and disorders, including coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, peripheral artery disease, adult congenital heart disease, heart tumors and valve disease. Building on the legacy created by Dr. Michael E. DeBakey, the center’s cardiologists and surgeons are worldwide leaders in clinical and scientific trials, innovation and education that benefits current and future physicians and patients.

Visit houstonmethodist.org/sugarland to learn more about Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

Dr. Uttam Tripathy

A Healthy Start to the School Year

As a new school year approaches, it is crucial to prioritize our health and well-being. Here are a few simple yet effective tips to ensure a healthy start to the school year.

1. Eat a Nutritious Breakfast: Kick start your day with a balanced breakfast that includes whole grains, fruits and proteins.

2. Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is essential for concentration and overall well-being.

3. Get Enough Sleep: Adequate sleep is vital for cognitive function and physical health. Aim for at least eight to nine hours of sleep each night.

4. Stay Active: Regular physical activity boosts your mood, enhances concentration and reduces stress. Engage in activities you enjoy, such as sports, dancing or simply taking a brisk walk.

5. Practice Good Hygiene: Maintaining good hygiene habits helps prevent the spread of illness. Wash your hands frequently, and cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

6. Manage Stress: School can be demanding, but it is crucial to manage stress effectively. Find healthy ways to relax and unwind, such as reading, practicing deep breathing exercises or spending time in nature.

7. Stay Organized: Maintaining a well-organized schedule can reduce stress and ensure you stay on top of your tasks.

8. Foster Positive Relationships: Surrounding yourself with a supportive network creates a conducive learning environment and promotes emotional well-being.

Remember, your well-being is a priority, and taking care of yourself enables you to thrive academically and personally. Here is to a healthy and fulfilling year ahead!

For more information or an appointment with Dr. Tracy Stammann of OakBend Medical Group, call 281-238-7870

Houston Methodist Sugar Land: Leading Medicine in Fort Bend and Beyond

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is committed to leading medicine by delivering the Houston Methodist standard of unparalleled quality, safety, service and innovation to patients in Fort Bend County and surrounding areas. With more than 1,000 affiliated physicians and 2,500 employees, Houston Methodist Sugar Land offers access to the most innovative care available, including comprehensive cancer care; neuroscience and spine care; orthopedics and sports medicine; heart and vascular care; women’s services; bariatric and digestive care; and advanced imaging — all backed by a focus on healing people today and offering hope for tomorrow.

Since opening in 1998, Houston Methodist Sugar Land has continually expanded to meet the community’s needs. Today, the campus houses:

• Three patient care pavilions with 347 beds and 27 operating rooms.

• Three medical office buildings, with a fourth opening this year.

• Centers of Excellence in cardiology, neurosciences, oncology, orthopedics, urology and women’s services.

Houston Methodist Sugar Land also offers a stand-alone emergency center near Sienna and specialized physician offices throughout Fort Bend County, including primary care offices serving First Colony, Brooks Street, Aliana, Riverstone, Sienna and Rosenberg.

What really sets Houston Methodist Sugar Land apart is its patient-centric operational philosophy, one built on a strong sense of mission and a deeply ingrained commitment to Integrity, Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Excellence – the Houston Methodist I CARE values. These values guide the staff’s daily interactions with patients, family members and each other, as well as provide a strong foundation for their focus on personal, individualized care.

As Fort Bend grows and health care moves forward, Houston Methodist Sugar Land will continue to invest in the community’s health and well-being, ensuring that residents have a first-class choice for medical care.

For more information about Houston Methodist Sugar Land, visit houstonmethodist.org/sugarland or call 281.274.7500 to find a physician near you.

Fun in the Sun Now Could Mean Problems Later

Summer is upon us and many of us are looking forward to enjoying some “fun in the sun.” Spending time outside is a great way to be physically active, reduce stress and spend time with loved ones. Without properly protecting your skin from the sun, you are inadvertently increasing your risk of skin cancer. Let’s not forget about other undesirable physical signs of sun damage: wrinkles, discoloration and leathery appearing skin. Your skin is your largest organ. Show it some love!

Staying out of the sun completely is the best way to avoid sun damage; however, for most of us, this is not practical. So, if you plan on going outside, use precautions:

• Always wear a minimum SPF 30 sunscreen. Apply it every day. Make it a habit just as you do with brushing your teeth. Be sure to cover all exposed areas. Don’t forget your ears, eyelids, lips and back of hands. Apply every two hours while outdoors. Apply more frequently if you perspire or get wet.

• Avoid sun in the middle of the day from 10 am to 4 pm when the ultraviolet rays which cause skin damage are strongest.

• Wear protective clothing when outdoors for long periods. A long-sleeved shirt, pants and a wide-brimmed hat will protect your body against the sun’s harmful effects.

Genna Lubrano, MD is with the OakBend Medical Group. To request an appointment, call 281-497-0296

Fort Bend Rheumatology Associates: Specialized Care and Therapies in One Convenient Location

For over 17 years, founder and CEO of Fort Bend Rheumatology Associates (FBRA), J. Edward Hernandez, MD, FACR, has specialized in the treatment of autoimmune diseases that affect the muscles, bones, joints, ligaments and tendons – diseases that can cause pain, swelling, stiffness and potentially cause joint deformities. His philosophy of patient-centered care focuses on specialized services in one convenient location, which has led his practice to grow to include two additional board-certified MDs, two Physician Assistants, an in-house lab, a suite for in-house infusion therapy, two locations and an onsite Physical Therapist.

FBRA’s expert team of medical specialists treat: Ankylosing Spondylitis, Antiphospholipid Syndrome, Giant Cell Arteritis, Gout, Psoriatic Arthritis, Raynaud’s, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Scleroderma,

Sjogren’s Syndrome, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Vasculitis. On-site patient services include Physical Therapy to improve mobility and restore the use of affected joints, specialty labs for in-house blood draws and ultrasound guided joint injections to assist doctors with targeting the precise site of joint pain.

FBRA’s in-house infusion suites offer a comfortable setting to provide immunotherapy for various rheumatic diseases and hydration therapy that delivers fluid and vitamins directly into the blood stream via an IV. Several immune boosting, energy increasing, anti-inflammatory and hydration therapies can be administered based on a patient’s needs.

New to FBRA is Dr. Nasha Nensey, a board-certified rheumatologist who recently graduated from the fellowship program at Baylor College of Medicine. She

joins Dr. Hernandez and Dr. Ryan Valicek. FBRA is located at 7616 Branford Place, Suite 320 in Sugar Land and 208 Oak Drive South, Suite 100 B in Lake Jackson. For more information or to make an appointment, visit www.FortBendRheumatology.com or call 281.980.1742.

J. Edward Hernandez, MD, FACR

48th Annual Houston Glass Club Vintage Glass and Antique Show and Sale

The Houston Glass Club is pleased to announce its 48th annual Vintage Glass and Antique Show and Sale. The show begins on Saturday, August 19th from 9 am to 5 pm and continues on Sunday, August 20th, from 10 am to 4 pm. The event will be held at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds, located at 4310 Highway 36, just south of Houston in Rosenberg.

“Glass is more delightful and sightly than any other material at this day known to man,” could be a quote from a modern-day glass collector. Actually, it is part of Neri’s introduction to his Art of Glass book written in 1611. Sponsored by the Houston Glass Club, dealers carry a wide variety of depression era glass and elegant glass from companies such as Cambridge, Fostoria, Heisey, Tiffin and Imperial. American made kitchenware, pottery, and dinnerware are also featured.

The Houston Glass Club Show remains one of the toprated and respected shows in the United States with dealers displaying rare and hard to find pieces. These dealers buy all year with this particular show in mind knowing that the patrons have discriminating tastes and expect the best and most unusual glassware to be there.

NEWSWORTHY

There is also a wonderful general line antique show in the second building so attendees get two shows in one! Dealers carry a wide range of general line antiques including furniture, linens, estate and costume jewelry, silver, quilts and a myriad of other items. There is truly something for everyone! You never know what will appear at a show, and as all collectors know, that is what makes collecting such an adventure. There is also a glass repair booth on-site to repair damaged glass, silver and costume jewelry items.

Admission is $7 for both days. Food concessions are available onsite and will be catered by the Crazy Cookers featuring pulled pork, burgers, nachos, frito pies, sweets and treats. The food is delicious and many customers make dining part of the show experience.

So don’t forget on August 19th to 20th to head south to Rosenberg, Texas for the 48th Annual Vintage Glass and Antique Show and Sale. Exit Highway 36 off of Highway 59 South to the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds where free parking is available and all buildings are air-conditioned. For more information, please phone 281-240-0382

Show Hours

A wide variety of depression era glass and elegant glass from companies such as Cambridge, Fostoria, Heisey, Tiffin and Imperial will be available at the 48th Annual Houston Glass Club Vintage Glass and Antique Show and Sale August 19th - 20th in Rosenberg.

Tax-Free Weekend!

It’s time to do that back-to-school shopping with Texas Sales Tax-Free Weekend. This year the annual sales tax holiday begins Friday, August 11th goes through midnight Sunday, August 13th.

According to the Texas State Comptroller, the sales tax exemption applies only to qualifying items bought during the sales tax holiday. But exactly what are qualifying items? Most clothing, footwear, school supplies and backpacks sold for less than $100 qualify that are purchased from a Texas store or from an online or catalog seller doing business in Texas. And the buyer does not need to provide the seller with an exemption certificate. The exemption applies to each eligible item sold for less than $100, and there is no limit to the number of qualifying items you can buy.

According to the Comptroller, items that do not qualify for the tax exemption include:

• Items sold for $100 or more

• Clothing subscription boxes

• Specially-designed athletic activity or protective-use clothing or footwear

• For example, golf cleats and football pads are usually worn only when people play golf or football, so they do not qualify for the exemption.

• Tennis shoes, jogging suits and swimsuits; however, can be worn for other than athletic activity and qualify for the exemption.

• Clothing or footwear rentals, alterations and cleaning services

• Items used to make or repair clothing, such as fabric, thread, yarn, buttons, snaps, hooks and zippers

• Jewelry, handbags, purses, briefcases, luggage, umbrellas, wallets, watches and other accessories

• Computers

• Software

• Textbooks

• Certain baggage items

For a complete list of qualifying items and more information, visit https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/publications/98490/#:~:text=11%20%2D%2013%2C%202023&text=The%20 Comptroller%20encourages%20all%20taxpayers,the%20annual%20Tax%2DFree%20weekend.

Texas Sales Tax-Free Weekend

Gingerbread: Quality Early Education in Fort Bend County

With summer in full swing, it is not too early to turn our attention to a new school year. This year, the Gingerbread Family of Learning Centers celebrated their nine year anniversary of the Gingerbread Kids’ Academy in Richmond and the 42nd anniversary of The Gingerbread House Learning Center in Rosenberg.

The Gingerbread Kids’ Academy and Gingerbread House Learning Center have developed an environment where children can learn and grow. The programs are designed for children ages eight weeks to 12 years and offer a variety of activities throughout the year. In addition to their exceptional education programs, the Gingerbread Centers have implemented enhanced safety and health protocols that include daily temperature checks of students who enter the building and hourly cleaning schedules for high touch areas in the centers. During the pandemic, both locations stayed open to care for the children of essential workers in our community.

Research has shown that in order for a child to be successful in school and life, they must begin with a strong foundation in learning. Gingerbread has designed a curriculum that includes an emphasis on reading, writing, science, math, discovery and exploration, as well as social skills development. The infant and toddler programs focus on the development of both gross and fine motor skills along with basic language development. The three to five-year-old Pre-School and Pre-K programs focus on academics, peer relationships and preparation for entry into Kindergarten and elementary school. The Gingerbread after-school programs, located onsite at Bentley, Frost, Hutchison, Hubenak, Arredondo and Gray Elementary, as well as onsite at the Gingerbread Kids’ Academy and Gingerbread House, offer homework assistance, arts, crafts, games and sports.

A new school year means new beginnings. The Gingerbread Family invites you to come by for a visit. Both locations are now accepting enrollments for the 2023-2024 school year.

Contact Tim Kaminski at twkaminski@sbcglobal.net or 281-239-2110 for more information.

Construction Starts on Fire Station in

Cross Creek Ranch

The Fort Bend County Emergency Services District #4 has started construction of a permanent fire station within Cross Creek Ranch. Located along W. Cross Creek Bend north of Morgan Spur Road adjacent to Chrysalis Preschool, the 9,715-square-foot facility will have two bays and will house an engine company that is staffed with four firefighters/EMTs around the clock. Estimated to cost $6,746,432, the station is expected to be complete in June 2024. Johnson Development donated the land for the fire station.

“This, of course, is a great benefit to the thousands of people who make their home here in Cross Creek Ranch, but also to the region,” said Rob Bamford, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Cross Creek Ranch.

The station will have six dorm rooms and three bathrooms. There will also be four pantries located near the kitchen, giving each shift their own pantry. The kitchen will be open to the living room and dining room. There will also be a strength and conditioning room. Rainwater will be collected onsite for irrigation.

“This station is esthetically pleasing to the community and will blend in very nicely,” said Fire Chief Gilbert “Herc” Meier, Jr. “The fire station will be built to the standard that the department has set in place which includes a state-of-the-art alerting system for our fire fighters, a patio where they can congregate and get fresh air along with a strength and conditioning room where they can focus on physical fitness. Most importantly, this great location allows us to take care of the Cross Creek Residents quickly. We are excited to be a part of the neighborhood. We hope you never need us, but we are here if you do.”

Martinez Architects designed the station and Bass Construction, based in Rosenberg, Texas, is building the facility.

The district opened a temporary fire station in Cross Creek Ranch in January 2022. “We are excited that we will be in our permanent home in the neighborhood soon,” Meier said.

Fort Bend County Emergency Services District No. 4 DBA Fulshear Simonton Fire Department covers 106 square miles with an estimated population of 77,000 residents. The cities of Fulshear, Simonton, Weston Lakes and outlying areas of Katy and Richmond are served from five stations located throughout the district.

Cross Creek Ranch has been ranked among the nation’s 50 top-selling master-planned communities for 12 consecutive years. There are more than 5,300 homes in the 3,200-acre community, which is planned for approximately 6,000 homes upon completion. Eight builders offer homes in Cross Creek Ranch priced from the $300,000s to $1 million-plus. Learn more at www.crosscreektexas.com

Helping break ground on a permanent fire station in Cross Creek Ranch are, from left, Fire Chief Gilbert “Herc” Meier, Jr., Brandi Crone, Jacob Rice, Ricardo Martinez, Daniel McJunkin, Robert Pechukas, Tommy Kuykendall, Precinct 1 County Commissioner Vincent Morales, Fort Bend County Emergency Services District No. 4 Board President Ed Krenek, Kim Stacy, Bob Bass and Buck Bass.

Richmond

July 4th at the Ranch

Saturday, July 1st 9 am - 5 pm

George Ranch Historical Park

10215 FM 762

Wrangle up the family for a Texas style 4th of July celebration at the George Ranch Historical Park! Join us at the 1930s Ranch House for a picnic and ice cream social featuring crafts, games, music, sack races and hand-turned ice cream. Pack a picnic lunch and join us for all the fun in the yard!

Buy general admission tickets today by visiting https:// www.georgeranch.org/event/park-admission.

Needville

Freedom Festival

Saturday, July 1st 12 pm - 11 pm

Harvest Park

3001 Violet Street

Celebrate America and come out for the Freedom Festi val! Live music, kids’ bike parade right after opening cere monies, food trucks, kids’ activities, mutton bustin’, cornhole tournament, lawnmower, go-kart and mini bike races plus vendors and a silent auction. A fireworks show will be the grand finale. It will be a day full of celebration and fun.

For more information, visit www.cityofneedville.com.

Rosenberg

Annual Family 4th Celebration

Tuesday, July 4th 6 - 10 pm

Seabourne Creek Nature Park

3831 Highway 36 South

It’s all about patriotism, family and fun when Rosenberg hosts the Family 4th Celebration at Seabourne Creek Nature Park. This free event runs from 6 to 10 pm. Food vendors will be lined up selling cold treats and patriotic eats. The Jam Band will perform on the main stage from 6 to 9 pm.

The much-anticipated fireworks show will end the evening – don’t miss the spectacular show! Come early for the best spots, and don’t forget to bring blankets, lawn chairs and bug spray!

For more information, visit www.rosenbergtx.gov or follow on Facebook @RosenbergTXGov

There’s so many ways to celebrate our nation’s birthday right in our own back yard. So, pack up the kids, and enjoy some family fun July 4th style!

absolutely AUTO REVIEW

By Steve Kursar

2023 Chevrolet Traverse

full-size SUV Chevy Tahoe. The Traverse is powered by a 310hp, 3.6 liter V6 engine mated to a nine-speed transmission. EPA estimated fuel economy numbers are 18 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, pretty decent considering the size and weight of the Traverse.

It’s the surprisingly roomy interior that is really impressive. The High Country trim comes with second row bucket seats with an optional bench seat back there in case you need it. Cargo space behind the third row is more spacious than you might expect.

The 2023 Chevrolet Traverse a three-row large crossover for those new car buyers who want a big family mover but don’t want a minivan or the extra-large SUV. The new Traverse looks large, can easily carry seven passengers but drives a lot smaller than it looks. We were amazed at the feel of this crossover. If you don’t need to venture off-road, but still have a crowd that needs to get to school and team activities, this may be the big crossover you’re looking for.

The really big, built-on-truck-frame SUVs are always going to be popular in Texas. But they’re big, and like their pickup truck cousins, they can ride a little rough. But, they’re tough as nails and have gobs of space. Of course, they still make me cringe when at the pumps filling them up. In lieu of the dreaded minivan, the big/full-size crossover segment might be the best fit out there for family moving. Almost every automaker seems to agree with this notion, because they all have one in their line-up. The question is which big crossover to pick? My instinct is to always go with a model that’s been around a few years and has worked out its kinks, like the venerable Chevrolet Traverse.

A base 2023 Chevrolet Traverse comes with an MSRP

The kind of safety tech features that so many new car buyers demand in their next vehicle is provided through Chevy Safety Assist, which comes standard with the High Country trim. There’s also an awfully convenient 120 volt power outlet behind the front center console to power up a laptop.

Chevy Tahoe shoppers would do themselves a favor by checking out the Traverse before pulling the trigger on a new sale. The Traverse drives more smoothly, is more fuel efficient, and it’s considerably more affordable.

Cilantro

HeySweet Lifers! I love cilantro! I use it in all meals starting with on my eggs for breakfast, in my pasta dishes and with every meat. I tried growing it over the past several years, and every time I tried, it would look real nice for about two weeks, and then it would either bolt or die. I had pretty much given up on growing it, figuring that it’s just too hot here to make to really take off. And then, something really wonderful happened. I looked in the most ridiculous place, behind my pool where there’s always shade, and there I found a sea of cilantro! It was like an explosion of the herb starting growing in a large space and where most would have found this annoying. I was, and still am, nothing short of ecstatic! I was like, huh, you want to grow here? Well, be my guest!

The herb, as you can see, can be quite finicky to get started, but once you do, look out! It is a member of the carrot family, and carrots love to grow under tomatoes for those of you following a companion planting process in your gardens. They like a bit of shade and/or dappled sunshine to be at their best. It is one of the oldest herbs, and it is thought to have started in the Mediterranean area. There are many who believe it actually originated in the Nahal Henar cave in Israel. Its seeds are called coriander, and they have been found in the Egyptian tombs – even that of King Tut! Coriander is also mentioned in the Bible in Exodus and in the first cookbook ever written by Apicius, De Re Coquinaria, written in 14 A.D.

Culinarily speaking, cilantro seems to have a love or hate fanfare. Some people say that it tastes like soap, and others love it making for an interesting discussion point at the dinner table. Cilantro is chock full of many necessary nutrients for optimum health rich in Vitamins

A, E, K and folate. Additionally, it contains calcium, iron and potassium. This herb is among the “big four seasoning” in Thai cooking and works well with soy sauce and harder produce, such as pineapple, cucumbers and mangos. It is also a big must have in Mexican cooking used in marinades on ceviche, a must have ingredient for salsas and menudo soup should never be lacking a generous handful atop diced jalapeño and quest fresco!

By Alisa Murray www.alisamurray.com

Medicinally, cilantro and coriander have been used for millennia in holistic medicine for treatment of insomnia, indigestion and gas and gut problems. The herb has been shown to be effective in assisting the body to flush our heavy metals, often a side effect of chemotherapy. It also is an effective aid in treating and killing salmonella due to the antibacterial compound dodecanal found in its’ leaves. Most recently there has been some promise for assisting with diabetes treatments.

As you can see, cilantro or coriander is another one of those herbs that packs a punch and should be a staple in all of our gardens. A few things I like to do with mine is to puree it with garlic and olive oil and freeze into cubes for dropping into soups and salad dressings. I also love to take dried and crunched cilantro and add powdered garlic, smoked paprika, ground ginger and a pinch of brown sugar and rub on pork and chicken. Any way I use it I love it as cilantro is one of my most favorite herbs!

Keep on growing!

Hats off to longtime Fort Bend County Fair supporter Sandy Scott as she recently retired from her Fair duties. Scott officially stepped down after serving over 20 years on the Fair Scholarship Board in addition to serving as a Fair Board Member, Past President and Lifetime Director. Fair President Kim Williams presented Scott with an award of appreciation for her commitment to the organization. Thank you, Sandy Scott, for a lifetime of service and dedication to Fort Bend youth!

OF BRAZOS

OakBend Medical Center held its Second Annual Power of the Purse Bingo at Pecan Grove Country Club. Guests played 10 rounds of Bingo including a bonus “Black Out” game to win designer purses. It was a sold-out event with proceeds benefitting OakBend’s Nuclear Medicine program.

Caylin Boyd, Sandy Scott, Kim Williams and Dave Scott

OakBend doctors got in the game! Tracy Stammann, MD, Paola Torres-Ortiz, MD and Gena Lubrano, MD

Team members from OakBend’s Perinatal Floor Eliana Vazquez, Stephanie King, Christina Zavala, Aleshia Levi-Toler, Victoria Scott and Victoria Longoria enjoyed the event.

The lucky winner of the Louis Vuitton bag was Yolanda Richard!

The Texana Center’s Texas Correctional Office on Offenders with Medical or Mental Impairments (TCOOMMI) Team and staff from the Rosenberg Clinic were proud to support the Fort Bend County Mental Health Awareness walk in May.

Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship held its 9th Annual Derby Day Party at the Sugar Land Marriott raising over $340,000! Chaired by Noell Myska and Alicen Swift, fabulous fascinators, haute hats and bold bow ties were all the rage for this fashion forward event. All funds raised support the mission of changing lives through equine assisted services.

Desmond Davis, Alisha McCarver, Kara Janecek, Brittany Martinez, TrayNeisha Sanford, Benny Charles, Judge Juli Mathew, John-Robert Brionez and Ashley Avila

Participating in the walk were Kara Janecek, Dr. Connie Almeida and Alisha McCarver

Janice and Pepe Vyoral.

Tom and Peggy Hernandez.

Ali and Teri Milos.

Caroline Champion and Noell Myska

Caroline Champion, Lisa Bennet, Meagan Gonzales, Denise McCall, Lisa Mauricio, Shay Jefferson, Laura Espinosa, Tere Jackson, Portia Willis and Adam Gonzales

Heather Hernandez Sedillo and Shelby Peterson

The Derby Day Committee: Heather Hernandez Sedillo, Fran Zwick, Phyllis Wolfe, Liz Wilcox, Sara Self, Kelly Andel, Reagan Blankenship, Alicen Swift, Noell Myska and Alisa Franks