March 2013 - Absolutely Brazos Magazine

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MARCH 2013

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Richmond’s Rosanna Pace Miss Rodeo Texas2012

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CONTRIBUTORS

MARCH 2013

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VOLUME 1

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NUMBER 4

Brian Simmons Writer Page 8

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26 Miss Rodeo America 2012 MacKenzie Carr with Miss Rodeo Texas 2012 Rosanna Pace at the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame Inductions in October 2012.

COVER STORY 8

RICHMOND’S ROSANNA PACE BRINGS HOME THE CROWN Miss Rodeo Texas 2012 and Fort Bend County native Rosanna Pace has nurtured her passion for rodeo for over a decade. Carrying on the tradition of Miss Rodeo Texas, Pace promotes the sport of rodeo and her love for Western heritage wherever she goes.

F E AT U R E S 22

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS Find your home and make it your own! These resources will help you turn your house into your dream home.

MEDICAL & BUSINESS 10

25

BUSINESS BRIEFS Chamber Recognizes Champions at Annual Awards Luncheon

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CHILD ADVOCATES OF FORT BEND Announces 2013 Gala Plans

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TWO VOLUNTEER LEADERS Honored by the Fort Bend County Historical Commission

COLUMNS 14

HIGH SCHOOL HOT SHOT Angie Gonzalez: The Art of Time Management

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A LITTLE PIECE OF HISTORY Welcome to Needville: A Country Casual Town

RIBBON CUTTINGS

NEWSWORTHY 11

GET READY For the First Annual Plop Drop

12

ACCESSHEALTH Gears Up For Community Challenge Sporting Event

Nick Nicholson Entertainment Editor Page 26

Joan Frances Writer Page 28

IN EVERY ISSUE 6

EDITOR’S POINT OF VIEW

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SEEN ON THE SCENE Photos from Brazos charitable events

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COMMUNITY EVENTS Fun events the whole family will enjoy

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OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART OF BRAZOS A few snapshots of people, places and happenings

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COMMUNITY MARKETPLACE

NEW TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD 19

REVOLUTION STUDIO

FILM REVIEW 26

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28

Linda K. Eaves Writer Page 14

BEAUTIFUL CREATURES

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ON THE COVER:

Rosanna Pace Miss Rodeo Texas 2012 Photo by John McCain

BACK PAIN? NECK PAIN? The Spine Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is the comprehensive, coordinated option for you in Fort Bend County.

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EXCLAMATION POINTS! THE INSIDE SCOOP STRAIGHT FROM THE TOP Editor-in-Chief, PATTI PARISH-KAMINSKI It’s March and in the greater Houston area, that means it’s time to rodeo! While Fort Bend has already kicked off the rodeo season last fall, rodeo is top of mind with many this month because of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™. So, what better time to bring you a story of a hometown girl who will be appearing at the Rodeo as Miss Rodeo Texas 2012? For those of us who attend the Fort Bend County Fair every year, Rosanna Pace is a familiar face. This Richmond native served as Junior Fair Queen and was ultimately named Fair Queen.

Patti Parish-Kaminski I had the opportunity to interview Rosanna when she with May W. Tape, DDS. was crowned Fair Queen in 2006, and she spoke of her ambitions to compete for Miss Rodeo Texas. This young lady has realized her dream and now, strives to inspire young people by showing them through hard work, you truly can accomplish anything. Rosanna, you make us proud.

Speaking of pride, there is a great deal of pride in our community. This was especially evident when I attended the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance Awards Luncheon.

The Chamber recognized community leaders for their steadfast efforts toward making our home a very special place to live, work and raise our families. Richmond Mayor Hilmar G. Moore was honored with a Lifetime Service Award, and Fort Bend County Judge Bob Hebert was honored with a Legislative Leadership Award in recognition of their commitment to Fort Bend. Numerous other awards were presented including the Business Person of the Year, which, for the first time in its 15 year history, was awarded to a female. May W. Tape, DDS was the recipient of this award, and it was welldeserved. I know the gentlemen who served on the selection committee, and I have only one comment: Way to go guys!

Spring is also the time to tackle those home improvements. With our Home Is Where The Heart Is feature on page 22, we bring you the resources – and ideas – to make your house your dream home. So, if your “honey do” list is getting longer and longer, call on some of these resources to help you get the job done.

My team and I are out and about in Brazos attending community functions and visiting with friends, neighbors and businesses. If you are hosting an event or would just like to say hello, please let us know and invite us to stop by. We’d love to visit with you and hear about what you are doing out and about in Brazos.

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Rosanna Pace at the Miss Rodeo Texas pageant just after being crowned on June 21, 2012.

COVER STORY

By Brian Simmons

Richmond’s

Rosanna Pace Brings Home the Crown

R

osanna Pace woke up the morning after she won Miss Rodeo Texas 2012 last June.

The day before didn’t quite seem real.

The Richmond native looked over to see her crown. It was still there.

“It was a dream of mine that came true,” Pace said. “It was 10 years in the making.”

The Miss Rodeo Texas pageant is an annual scholarship contest in which participants are judged based on horsemanship, a speech, interviews and modeling. Pace’s victory came after a long year of studying, practicing, working out and speech therapy. After failing to win in 2011, Pace, who would be 23 and in her last year of eligibility the next June, was told her voice was what needed improvement.

In 2009, Pace was walking her mare through a gate when the horse spooked, knocked Pace down and ran over her, hitting her in the jaw. Pace’s jaw hurt, but she didn’t see a doctor immediately and figured the pain would go away eventually. She started overcompensating

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when she talked and developed a lisp.

The issue wasn’t obvious to the people around Pace at first as she worked toward the Miss Rodeo Texas title. After the 2011 competition, her first try at the pageant, Pace went right to work with a speech therapist. “She was 110 percent dedicated,” said Avery Scott, Pace’s friend and the Miss Rodeo Texas 2008 winner. “Losing that first year made her drive to win so much more. She spent all her free time working to win. The speech pathology was extra on top of everything else the other girls had to work on.”

Pace was working on a master’s degree at Texas A&M and student teaching at the time as well. “I had to overcome the speech problem if I wanted to win,” Pace said. “It’s something I still concentrate on. It’s something that’s always going to be a bit of a problem.”

Pace’s dream of winning Miss Rodeo Texas started when she entered the Junior Fair Queen contest at the Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo in 2002.

She didn’t win that year, but came back to grab the title in 2003. Two years lat-

MARCH 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

er, she was named Fair Queen.

The horsemanship portion of the Miss Rodeo Texas pageant came naturally for Pace, who has had a passion for rodeo for as long as she can remember. It was the fashion and modeling that was a challenge.

“When I first started, I didn’t have a clue,” Pace said. “I had to learn how to do the hair, the makeup and how to model. I had to work on the speeches and interviews.”

In the interviews at the Miss Rodeo Texas pageant, judges asked contestants questions in three different categories: horsemanship, personality and appearance. The participants were also asked what the pageant calls “extemporaneous questions.” Pace was quizzed on everything from professional rodeo knowledge to how many times a horse’s heart beats per minute.

As Miss Rodeo Texas, Pace represented the state at the Miss Rodeo America pageant at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas in December. The pageant was in conjunction with the National Finals Ro-

“I want to inspire people and show them that through hard work, you can accomplish anything.” – Rosanna Pace deo. The whirlwind event took place over seven days, during which contestants’ cell phones were confiscated and contact with the outside world was non-existent. The 31 participants, who each won their respective state competitions, tested, interviewed, performed dance routines, gave speeches and rode horses. Pace took the third runner-up spot and was pleased to finish in the top five. “That was the hardest and most rewarding experience I’ve ever had,” she said.

Each year’s Miss Rodeo Texas, who wins $15,000 in scholarships, a trophy saddle, a trophy buckle and fur and mohair jackets among other prizes, spends most of her year-long reign on the road, making appearances at rodeos, fairs, schools and civic events. Pace plans to rack up 40,000 miles by June. The Foster High School graduate is scheduled to appear every day during the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo and then make stops at the Houston and Austin rodeos as well throughout February and March.

Carrying on the tradition of Miss Rodeo Texas, Pace promotes the sport of rodeo and her love for Western heritage wherever she goes. “I’m just a simple girl,” Pace said. “All of a sudden, you’re a celebrity. I hope I inspire others to follow their dreams.”

Growing up in Fort Bend County, Pace always wanted to be around horses and the rodeo. When she was two years old, Pace’s mother signed her up for ballet. The young girl cried for a pony instead, received one and started barrel racing two years later.

She showed animals at the Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo for years and always looked up to the Fair Queen. Pace won that title herself on her first try in 2005 and even rode a horse while carrying the American flag that year, something she had to convince people she was able to do.

Pace also wants to get her Women’s Professional Rodeo Association card and to continue barrel racing. She recently started taking up breakaway roping as well. “I live, breath and eat rodeo,” Pace said, “I can’t imagine life without it.”

Pace plans to stay involved in pageants by helping girls who have the same goals she did 10 years ago. “I had a lot of former Miss Rodeo Texas winners encourage me,” Pace said. “I want to inspire people and show them that through hard work, you can accomplish anything.”

Scott continues encouraging Pace as she goes throughout the year. “I told her to enjoy every minute of it,” Scott said. “In some ways, it’s a long year, but when it’s over, you feel like you didn’t take in all those special moments. So I told her to make sure she does.”

Pace’s reign as Miss Rodeo Texas 2012 ends in June, but the memories of this Richmond girl’s time representing the state and Western heritage will last a lifetime.

Seven years later, Pace returned to the county fair as Miss Rodeo Texas. “It was great to get to see people who knew me as a little girl,” Pace said. “I was able to say, ‘I did it, and it was because of you.’

I said I would come back as Miss Rodeo Texas some day. I wouldn’t be where I am without this community that is involved in agriculture and horses and without the FFA and supportive teachers I had.”

Pace is just nine hours away from finishing her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction. She already has a bachelor’s degree in communication from Texas A&M. While she had to move to San Antonio and take a year off from school to carry out her duties as Miss Rodeo Texas, Pace plans to take classes again in the As Miss Rodeo Texas, Pace carried the fall and then return to Fort American flag for the Bend County and teach juNational Anthem at nior high or high school. the 2012 Fort Bend County Fair.

“When I go into schools, I tell kids that education is the key to life,” Pace said.

“You’ll have endless opportunities in life. I tell them, ‘Find your passion – what you want to do for the rest of your life.’”

Pace barrel racing with her mare HJ Smokin’ Delta Flame in Rockdale, Texas.

www.absolutelybrazos.com l MARCH 2013

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BUSIN E S S BRI E F S

Chamber Recognizes Champions at Annual Awards Luncheon

T

he Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance (CFBCA) held its annual Awards Banquet at Safari Texas Ranch in Richmond on Friday, January 11th. Several community leaders were honored with awards including May W. Tape, DDS, a pediatric dentist with a practice in Rosenberg, who was the recipient of the Business Person of the Year. Selected by a committee of previous winners including former Rosenberg Mayor Joe M. Gurecky, Tape was the first female in the Chamber’s history to receive this honor.

“We had our work cut out for us when we agreed to serve on the selection committee for the CFBCA in Business Person of the Year,” said Gurecky.

“We discussed the qualifications of many candidates, all of whom merited this distinguished honor; yet the discussion seemed to center around this one special person – Dr. May Tape – whose enthusiasm and generous sharing of time, talents and treasure stood out like a beacon in the night.”

Additional honorees at the annual luncheon included Corporate Spon-

Business Person of the Year May W. Tape, DDS and Lindsey Tape.

Richmond City Manager Terri Vela and Richmond Mayor Evalyn Moore.

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Chamber Board Chair Joe Freudenberger, Board Member of the Year Kevin Kohl, Ambassador of the Year Tom Wilson, Committee Member of the Year Katie Yount, Legislative Leadership Award winner Judge Robert Hebert; Business Person of the Year May W. Tape, DDS; Committee Member of the Year Justin Ring, Raymond Saage Volunteer of the Year Award Winner Lisa Matthews, Young Professionals Division Member of the Year Justin Morales, Hispanic Business Division Member of the Year Shirley Jackson and Gilbert Limones, representing Corporate Sponsor of the Year First Victoria National Bank.

Committee Members of the Year Justin Ring and Katie Yount.

Young Professionals Division Member of the Year Justin Morales with Rosenberg Mayor Vincent M. Morales, Jr.

sor of the Year, First Victoria National Bank; Raymond Saage Volunteer of the Year Award, Lisa Matthews, Servpro of West Fort Bend County; Ambassador of the Year, Tom Wilson, Reading Road SelfStorage; Board Member of the Year, Kevin Kohl, Silver Eagle Distributors; Committee Members of the Year, Justin Ring, EHRA, and Katie Yount, McDonough Engineering; Young Professional’s Division Member of the Year, Justin Morales, Greenscape Associates and Hispanic Business Division Member of the Year, Shirley Jackson, La Casona Mexican Restaurant.

The Chamber also presented two special, one-time awards. The first honored late Richmond Mayor Hilmar G. Moore, who served in that post for a believed national record 63 years before his passing at age 92, with a Lifetime Service Award.

Moore’s wife and current Richmond Mayor, Evalyn, accepted the award on behalf

MARCH 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

of the Moore Family.

The Chamber also recognized Fort Bend County Judge Robert “Bob” Hebert with a Legislative Leadership Award. Hebert spearheaded an effort that ultimately reauthorized the National Flood Insurance Program for another five years, thwarting a proposal by the Senate Banking Committee that would have mandated the purchase of insurance for all areas protected by a levee, including areas in the 500-year floodplain for a 500year levee. Such a provision would have been economically devastating to Fort Bend County residents and businesses located behind FEMA accredited levees built and maintained by local taxpayers.

Chamber President Shanta Kuhl; Legislative Leadership Award Winner County Judge Robert “Bob” Hebert and Chamber Board Chair Joe Freudenberger.

Hispanic Business Division Member of the Year Shirley Jackson.

Board Member of the Year Kevin Kohl.

NEWSWORTHY

Get Ready for the First Annual Plop Drop

Boutique & Tasting Room The Volunteer Services Council of the Richmond State Supported Living Center (RSSLC), formerly the Richmond State School, is proud to announce a new family fundraiser: The First Annual Plop Drop!

The Plop Drop will take place at the George Ranch on Saturday, March 23rd from 11 am to 4 pm. Family and friends will enjoy a fun-filled day of activities, music and food. Enjoy playing Poo-Poo PuttPutt, participating in the Cow Pie Toss, jumping on Balloon Fun Jumps or taking a Snake Train Ride. There will be clowns, face painting, a fish pond, Duck Pull, Petting Zoo, Horseshoe Tournament, Chicken Plop and riding demonstration by the individuals in the SIRE Program (Therapeutic Riding Program). The main event will be the Plop Drop, and Plop Drop squares will be sold for $25 each or 5 for $100. There will be two $1,000 prizes awarded to Plop Drop participants. Only 400 squares are available, and a live and silent auction will also be featured during the event.

Admission is free to the event; tickets are available for purchase for activities, food and beverages. Special seating VIP tables of eight are available for $1,000 and VIP individual admission is $100 and includes food and beverages. Event and activity sponsorships are available from $250 to $15,000.

The Richmond State Supported Living Center is a community for adults living with intellectual disabilities located in Fort Bend County and serving a nine county area.

The Volunteer Services Council is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization committed to enriching the lives of the individuals residing at RSSLC. For more information, call 281344-4286 or visit www.goVSC.org.

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Misty Alnahaoi & Yenny Saravia

Doris & Joe Gurecky

Ron & Jennifer Roberts

Doug & Laura Butler Allison Wen & Lisa Fredrickson

Barbara Meeks & Gary Pearson

NEWSWORTHY

S E E N on the Scene

Super Ball Event XII Benefiting American Red Cross

Barb & Randy Maffett

AccessHealth Gears Up For Community Challenge Sporting Event

Nancy Kiebler, Carol Edwards, Chris Thompson, Juan Martinez, Ben Anders, Barbara Benes and Pam Cobb.

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MARCH 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

Chris & Lillie Breaux

Kiri & Karen Seliger

The event committee is putting together a one-of-a kind, family style event to support AccessHealth in providing quality healthcare in the Fort Bend community. The day will include softball and volleyball tournaments, an “Ace” raffle, concessions and various children’s activities. Presenting or Grand Slam sponsors include the Methodist Hospital System and the TW Davis Family YMCA. Community Health Choice will be a Home Run sponsor for the event.

The event will be held on Saturday, March 9th with the softball tournament being played on both the T. W. Davis Family Y fields in Richmond and the Travis Park fields in Rosenberg. Rosenberg Mayor Vincent Morales will throw the first pitch at the Travis Park Fields in Rosenberg, and Richmond Mayor Evalyn Moore will throw the first pitch at the YMCA Fields in Richmond. There will be maximum number of 12 teams for softball and 8 teams for volleyball. Slots are filling quickly!

AccessHealth is a private, not-for-profit community health center that serves Fort Bend, Waller, Wharton, Austin and Colorado Counties. AccessHealth is dedicated to excellence in providing integrated health care services to improve the quality of life in the communities it serves without regard to income or circumstance.

AccessHealth is a United Way agency.

For additional information regarding the tournament or the services of AccessHealth, please contact Cindy Reaves, Community Relations Specialist, at 281-633-3169.

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By Linda K. Eaves

High School HOT SHOT Angie Gonzalez: The Art of Time Management

C

avalry Episcopal senior Angie Gonzalez has perfected the art of time management as she combines school work and activities, community volunteer work, and a 30-40 hour per week job to help pay for college.

Starting in her junior year, Angie has worked 30 to 40 hours per week at the Greatwood Chick-fil-A to help pay for college. “My biggest obstacle was time management. I wanted to be able to work and still excel in school. It was a struggle for me because I thought it would be really easy, but I realized that I wanted to focus on school and still be able to participate in my outside activities and be able to work.”

This semester Angie earned all A’s and a higher GPA. At Chick-filA, she recently got a second promotion as assistant manager of service.

“It’s a really cool experience. At first I was a team member, and after six months I got my first promotion.

Time management really helped me a lot.”

Last year Angie qualified for state in TAPPS (Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools) Spanish competition and will compete again this year. She is also a member of Student Council and has served as its president, vice-president and secretary and has been president of National Honor Society two years.

Angie

At Cavalry Episcopal, Angie is president and coordinator of PALS (Peer Assistance Leadership Service). A favorite project is Mix It Up Day where children are encouraged to make new friends and increase their social boundaries.

“Too many times social boundaries prevent students from working together, being friends and forging relationships.

Whenever you start building relationships in elementary school, it really improves motivation for school and motivation to excel in other things outside of school. It’s a national campaign that we’re trying to get started locally.”

Students are seated with peers they

don’t know and are encouraged to talk to each other. They are taught the harmful effects of bullying and intolerance.

Angie is also involved with an outside school activity, Youth in Philanthropy. Last year she received a $500 scholarship for her work. “I volunteer with Fort Bend Family Promise, Child Advocates and the Women’s Shelter.

There are so many non-profits in our community. It really helps me connect that back to my school, because then we can help them out.”

Angie would like to attend either Baylor University or Texas A&M and major in nursing or biology for a career as a neonatal nurse practitioner.

Her advice to underclassmen is to take advantage of the opportunities available. Learn how to time manage, take school seriously and work hard to get a high GPA. “I’m very blessed to attend Cavalry Episcopal mostly because I get the opportunity to become a firstgeneration student to attend college in my family. That’s one of my biggest achievements, so when I graduate, I’m definitely going to be proud of that.” Angie added that it is a great joy to have received help and support from the faculty to achieve this feat.

Congratulations to this hardworking senior whose future looks so bright!

“My biggest obstacle was time management.

I wanted to be able to work and still excel in school.”

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MARCH 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

NEWSWORTHY

Child Advocates of Fort Bend Announces 2013 Gala Plans Child Advocates of Fort Bend (CAFB) invites you to dive under the warm blue ocean to experience Treasures Under the Sea Gala on May 4th in the Ballroom of the Sugar Land Marriott Town Square beginning at 6 pm. Immerse yourself in an elegant evening of delightful treasures, ocean spectacles and unpredictable shipwrecks.

Paired with a delicious dinner, melodies from the band Funksion, and a dynamic live and silent auction, the night is expected to be one-of-a-kind.

CAFB is thrilled to have Carole and Bob Brown serving as Honorary Chairs for the Treasures Under the Sea Gala. “The work Child Advocates of Fort Bend does has such tremendous impact on so many children and their families. Carole and I are honored to be part of this event,” said Bob Brown. The presenting sponsor for this exciting event is Exchange Club of Sugar Land.

“At the very heart of this event is the belief that every child deserves a safe and healthy childhood. Community participation in our Gala fundraiser is a crucial part of our mission to help children and families affected by child abuse,” said Ruthanne Mefford, executive director at Child Advocates of Fort Bend.

Want to join in the fun? Sponsorship and underwriting opportunities are now available and range from $1,500 to $10,000.

Individual tickets are available for $125. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, donating an auction item, volunteering or

Child Advocates of Fort Bend Program Assistant Lianna Estrada; 2013 Board President Mark Magee; Executive Director Ruthanne Mefford; Events Specialist Lisa Moore and Honorary Chairs Carole and Bob Brown.

attending the event, call 281-344-5108 or visit www.cafb.org for more details.

Child Advocates of Fort Bend is a non-profit agency dedicated to providing a voice, healing the hurt and breaking the cycle of child abuse in Fort Bend County. Through its Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program, Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) and more than 200 trained community volunteer advocates, Child Advocates touches the lives of more than 400 children each month.

Letosha Gale, M.D. Family Medicine Our newest dOctOr will see yOu nOw. South Texas Medical Clinics, part of Memorial Hermann Medical Group, is a uniquely advanced team of primary care doctors and specialists. Our singular focus is to practice evidence-based medicine while delivering the highest level of collaborative, quality patient-centered care.

To schedule, call 281.344.0207.

South Texas Medical Clinics Brazos Town Center 7607 Town Center Blvd. in the Target wing Rosenberg, TX 77471

Memorial Hermann Medical Group benefits: • Electronic Medical Records let your doctor instantly view your medical records, including test results and medications, to ensure your coordinated, optimal care.

• Patient Portal allows you to actively monitor your health, complete paperwork, refill prescriptions and communicate directly with your doctor.

www.absolutelybrazos.com l MARCH 2013

15

MedCare Milestones

NEWSWORTHY

3rd annual

Spring Bling Thursday, March 21, 2013

Prize for Best Bling Ensemble

$ 30 Per Ticket Includes Food, 2 Indulgences and Bling Raffle Ticket

Bring all your girlfriends to the ultimate girl’s night in!

Come prepared to get pampered for a cause and shop for clothes, jewelry and home décor. Additional indulgences and drinks can be purchased for a minimal cost.

Purchase tickets by calling 713-773-5123 or visit www.medcaremilestones.org.

All proceeds to benefit MedCare Milestones, directly aiding children in need locally & around the world.

2013 Spring Bling Participants & Sponsors

16

MARCH 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

Examining artifacts at an Old Foster Community Museum desk are Rene Lamb and Vickie Tonn.

Two Volunteer Leaders to Be Honored by the Fort Bend County Historical Commission Rene Lamb and Vickie Tonn are this year’s recipients of the Fort Bend County Historical Commission’s annual Heritage Award. The prestigious award will be presented during a public reception on Tuesday, March 5th scheduled for 7 pm at Safari Texas in Richmond. The two Fort Bend County residents are officers of the Old Foster Community Museum board of directors.

In announcing the recipients for 2013, Historical Commission Chair Bert Bleil noted that Lamb and Tonn were chosen in recognition of their organization’s achievements “as an all-volunteer grassroots organization.” Tonn is in her third term as president of the board, while Lamb is secretary and former interim president. Lamb is also the remaining charter member of the board, which organized in 2003. “These volunteers exemplify the spirit found throughout Fort Bend County,” Bleil said.

Both recipients have prior histories of civic involvement. Their diverse roles with the Foster museum include fundraising, awarding of scholarships, acquisition of museum properties and general management. Fort Bend County Judge Bob Hebert will present each honoree with a Heritage Award trophy. This will be the fifth year for the award. Last year’s recipient was Sugar Land historian Bettye Anhaiser.

The Heritage Award, Bleil noted, was created to recognize the accomplishments by persons or organizations that resulted in the preservation or promotion of historical and cultural assets within the county.

Advertorial

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ith spring renewal just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to make yourself a priority. You deserve to experience a state of total wellness with energy and vitality.

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Utilizing my 8 Steps to Complete Wellness can help you achieve and maintain your health goals. I want to empower you by educating you about the importance of balancing hormones with Bio-Identical hormone replacement, optimizing your thyroid, eliminating food sensitivities and allergies, reducing stress, replenishing your nutrients and modifying your lifestyle to lead a happy, healthy life. Balanced hormones, optimized thyroid, healthy weight, positive body image, reduced stress, and the right nutrients will lead you to GET YOUR LIFE BACK. Hormonal imbalance is very common for both women and men of varying ages. In women, progesterone can start

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17

EVENTS March 11th, 2 pm

Original Children’s Opera Daniel and the Dreamcatcher

Bring Your Family and Friends for a Fun Filled Day of

Activities, Music and Food!

Free admission for all to the event Tickets available for purchase for food, activities and beverages

• Event and Activity Sponsorship Opportunities Available from

$250 - $15,000 • Special Seating VIP Tables of 8

$1,000 • Plop Drop Squares Only 400 Available!

$25 each • VIP Individual Admission Includes special food & beverages

$100 If you are unable to attend, please consider donating a cash gift or auction item

281-344-4286 • www.goVSC.org

{

Garden Club of Richmond’s Annual Caladium Bulb Sale These “fancy-leafed” caladium bulbs are available in Red Flash, Carolyn Wharton Pink and White Christmas.

Bulbs can be pre-ordered until March 15th and will be available for pick-up the first week of April at Joseph’s Store, 202 Morton Street in Richmond. Prices are $25 for 25 bulbs, $50 for 50 bulbs and $90 for 100 bulbs. Call 281-342-8528 or 281-342-2684 to order.

March 2nd, 2 pm

Quilt Historian to Speak on Antique Textiles from Civil War Era

conce"s GOTTA HAVE HARP

HOUSTON CHAMBER CHOIR Sunday, March 3

ROSENBERG SYMPHONIC BAND Saturday, March 9

gallery

St. Patrick’s Day, Sunday, March 17

film

SCULPTOR JIM ADAMS

Friday, March 8

THE WIZARD OF OZ Saturday, March 16

CENTER FOR THE ARTS 823 3rd Street, Rosenberg 77471

at the corner of 3rd and Avenue G, just one block off Highway 90A

theimperial.org 281.277.7444 18

March 1st – 15th

MARCH 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

In conjunction with the exhibit, Lincoln: The Constitution and the Civil War, which is on display at George Memorial Library until April 4th, Fort Bend County Libraries presents “History of Civil War Quilts” in the Meeting Room at George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview in Richmond.

The program is presented by Ellis Bennett, an award-winning quilter.

Call 281-341-2677.

March 9th, 7:30 am

OakBend Annual Stroke Awareness Walk Join the OakBend team to help raise awareness about stroke and stroke prevention at Seaborne Creek Nature Park, 3831 Highway 36 South in Rosenberg. Contact sclark@obmc. org or call 281-633-4030.

Fort Bend County Libraries’ Bob Lutts Fulshear/Simonton Branch Library will present a performance by Houston Grand Opera’s “Operas to Go!” of Daniel and the Dreamcatcher in the Meeting Room of the library, located at 8100 FM 359 South in Fulshear. The free program is presented with the generous support of the Friends of the Bob Lutts Fulshear/Simonton Branch Library. Call 281-633-4675.

March 20th, 6 – 7 pm

Historic Richmond Association Monthly Meeting The public is invited to attend Historic Richmond Association’s meetings on the third Wednesday of every month at the Italian Maid Café on Morton Street in downtown Richmond. The organization supports Historic Richmond’s businesses and the community through historic preservation, community improvement and the promotion of the City of Richmond. For more information, call 832-752-9645.

March 23rd, 9 am – 4 pm Gifts Galore Greatwood Spring 2013 Gift Show

Gifts Galore Greatwood invites shoppers to the 11th Annual Spring Gift Show at Dickinson Elementary in Greatwood, 7110 Greatwood Parkway. The event features over 75 vendors with a variety of new merchandise. A portion of the proceeds benefits Lamar Educational Awards Foundation (L.E.A.F.), a nonprofit community-based organization created to support the educational programs of Lamar CISD. Contact Staci@GiftsGaloreShows.com or visit www.facebook.com/ giftsgaloregreatwood.

SUBMIT YOUR CALENDAR EVENTS.

E-mail editor@absolutelybrazos.com. Include the event date, time, location and a short description of the event.

Revolution Studio

The Studio of Richmond, Inc.

• Lenox China, Reed & Barton

Revolution Studio owners Kim and Mitch Syma.

• Crystal • Fine Jewelry • Fine Engravable Giftware • Baby Gifts • Collegiate Gifts • Stationary & Invitations Mon-Sat. 10 am-5:30 pm 301 Morton Street • Downtown Richmond 281-342-4808 | By Appt. 281-381-1865

Through Karate & Tae Kwon Do classes We focus on Self Confidence, Academic Success, Concentration & Focus, Respect, Discipline, Self Control, Self Defense, Stranger Danger & Character Development • • • • • •

Classes for Ninjas (ages 4-7) Juniors (ages 8-12) FREE Bully Prevention Workshops Teen/Adult Self Defense and Fitness Classes Adult Personal Safety Seminars Kickboxing Classes

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Frank’s Nursery

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Grand Pkwy. (99)

222 FM 359 281.513.5566

FM 359

Revolution Studio, Sugar Land’s first premier indoor cycling studio, is now open in Town Square. The boutique studio combines the popularity of indoor cycling with a full body workout component to offer riders a complete exercise experience. “Our mission is to create a community focused around our fitness philosophy, which combines the benefits of cardio and strength training while connecting the mind, body and spirit,” says Kim Syma.

The studio has 35 bikes, immaculate locker room facilities and classes 7 days a week. Each 50-minute class is designed to burn fat, tone muscle and build endurance all while leaving clients 500-800 calories lighter. Revolution Studio instructors incorporate motivational music and inspirational coaching into every ride. The cycling “sanctuary” is dimly lit with candles to set the mood for riders to escape the day and enjoy a physically and emotionally rewarding cycling experience.

“We drew inspiration from our combined 20 plus years in fitness. Kim was a UT cheerleader and has a strong background in dance choreography, which is how rhythm comes into play in our classes,” says Mitch Syma. “I bring the strength conditioning aspect to our workout, drawing from my experience as a personal strength and conditioning coach for the United States Air Force. Together, our experiences allow us to create a fun, effective, full body workout, one that feels less like a workout and more like a party on a bike.”

To join the revolution, visit www.revolution-studio.com or stop by the studio at 2125 Lone Star Drive. For more information, call 281 313-0662 or visit www.facebook.com/revolutionstudiocycling.

• Antique Opalescent Glassware

Hwy 90

www.absolutelybrazos.com l MARCH 2013

19

OUT & ABOUT

In celebration of the Super Bowl and to promote school spirit, Austin Elementary students and teachers participated in a hall decorating contest. The second grade team theme was "A Soup-er Tailgate."

Students collected soup cans and other canned goods to be donated to the Helping Hands food pantry. Pictured are Bryce Boyd, Rylea Broussard, Nathan Andrade, Luna Balle, Riley Emlert, Brady Dever, Analiese Restrepo, Ellery Davis and Kiley Garcia.

IN THE HEART BRAZOS

The Kindergarten Team at Austin Elementary won 1st place in the Super Bowl hall decorating contest for their decorations. Shown here are excited kindergartners Walker Thompson, Jordan Tosch, Madison Triana, Nick Blyth and Michaelle Ugochukwu showing off their winning wall.

Debbie Marcell and Doris Gurecky were all smiles at the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance annual Awards Banquet.

20

MARCH 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

Cheryl Stalinski, Fulshear Mayor Tommy Kuykendall and Mary Meier attended the January 11th Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance annual Awards Banquet.

The artists of the Texana Learning Center hosted an Unveiling Ceremony and Reception on January 23rd to showcase their work.

The opening of the Texana Learning Center at Rosenberg has provided an opportunity to significantly expand the art program and enlarge the range of art related activities for the center. The event was a "sneak peek" at the paintings, collages and sculptures of the artists created by clients of the Learning Center.

Board Chair of the Texana Center Dianne Wilson and Sugar Land artist Karen Shaw attended the unveiling.

Texana artist Lyle Woodruff showed off his work at the exhibit.

Guests Donna Kay Tucker and Robin Miller enjoyed the art exhibition.

Texana artists Rafika Milledge, Abel Ramos and Belinda Muth.

Marcia and James Vogelsang enjoyed lunch at the Ol’ Railroad Café in Rosenberg.

Congratulations to Rosenberg’s BR Vino who celebrated their one year anniversary in February. Pictured are Patti Parish-Kaminski and BR Vino owner Mike Mercado toasting their successful first year in business. www.absolutelybrazos.com l MARCH 2013

21

H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S

Advertorial

Grand Windows & Interiors: A Charming Showroom with a Huge Selection

A Place to Call Home Discover Tejas Lakes, Fort Bend County’s best kept secret west of the Brazos.

Tejas Lakes is a gated acreage community just eight minutes south of US 59.

Acreage lots are available starting in the 40s.

If you are looking for wide open spaces and big blue sky, Tejas Lakes is for you. Nestled in the countryside of Fort Bend County in the acclaimed Needville School District, Tejas Lakes is your place to call home. Tejas Lakes is just minutes away from the big city amenities, yet it feels like a world away.

Inside its private gates, Tejas Lakes proudly offers a variety of acreage home sites, private streets and a central water system. Underground utilities include electric, phone, cable, high speed internet and natural gas. Lake lots are available on the breathtaking 25 acre lake. Enjoy a playground area, wide open green spaces, secured entry gates and much more. Tejas Lakes allows buyers to buy now, build later and choose their own builder.

Tejas Lakes is a remarkable place to call home. Visit Tejas Lakes today! From US 59, exit Highway 36 and go south 8.5 miles to Jeske Road. Turn left onto Jeske road, and Tejas Lakes will be on the left. Tejas Lakes sales office is open Saturday 11 am - 5 pm and Sunday 12 - 5 pm.

For more information, call 713-927-2879 or visit www.TejasLakes.com.

Come Discover

Gated Community Lake Lots Available Buy Now, Build Later!

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

www.TEJASLAKES.com 22

MARCH 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

8.5 mi

Acreage Lots from the 40’s!

Grand Windows & Interiors welcomes you to visit their huge window fashion and design showroom, a charming French Quarter-like shop set with a wide variety of selections in several vignettes showcasing shutters, drapery, hardware, shades, blinds, bed ensembles, tile, granite and silestone. Let Grand Windows & Interiors’ experienced team help you get your 2013 projects completed in style and on budget.

At Grand Windows & Interiors, you can sit down, talk about your expectations, organize your ideas and get projects you want accomplished off the wish list and start to enjoy them with your family. Grand Windows & Interiors’ 20,000 fabric samples are sure to inspire you if you are looking for custom drapery, bedding, re-upholstery or custom furniture. Gorgeous draperies and custom bedding are their specialty, and they are the leading draper in the area. Find beautiful examples of their work at www.grandwindows.com.

For 30 years, Grand Windows & Interiors has been providing clients with the newest and most innovative options available. Their dedication to providing impeccable installation and following through with clients’ after-the-sale needs has allowed Grand Windows & Interiors to emerge as a leading industry in the Gulf Coast region.

For a consultation or for color, murals, staging or interior design, or if you need a one-stop-shop for affordable window treatments and motorization, visit Grand Windows & Interiors at 1405 Ave I in Rosenberg.

Shop hours are 9 am - 3:30 pm Monday through Friday. To schedule an appointment outside of shop hours or on Saturday, call 281-342-9160.

See ad on page 24.

H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S

Advertorial

Let Us

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We invite you to meet with us to discuss your design ideas and our process to complete your project. We want to be your kitchen and bath designer.

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Making home renovations and large purchases such as new countertops and new cabinets can be a confusing and time-staking endeavor. You need guidance from people who have experience, and will take the time to help you filter through your many choices and help you make these important decisions. Mark Carter and Mike Stevens opened the doors of The Kitchen and Bath Showroom at 928 FM 359 to do just that.

For Mark and Mike, “The People to Know, The Place to Go,” is not just a slogan, it’s a philosophy. They offer some of the industry’s best products and top-notch service. Installers of cabinetry, countertops, tile and flooring, they offer step-by-step design services from start to finish. From sitting down in the beginning to map-out your kitchen or bath design and decide what your needs are to placing the last tile, Mark and Mike will help you every step of the way. If you are the do-it-yourselfer, they can offer products and advice to help you complete your home improvement project. No matter how large or small your project, you just can’t beat their personal service.

Remodeling is a major decision for most people, and Mark and Mike know you have many options to look at when searching for a contractor. Their personal service and design assistance along with their professionalism makes them a leader in the kitchen and bath remodeling arena. Stop by The Kitchen & Bath Showroom for your next project at 929 FM 359 in Richmond.

For more information, visit www.theshowroomtx.com or call 281-633-2655.

www.absolutelybrazos.com l MARCH 2013

23

Advertorial

H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S Texas Custom Patios: Creating Stylish Outdoor Living Spaces

Texas Custom Patios is the Houston area’s premier designer and builder of stylish outdoor living spaces. The company is a family-owned residential remodeling contractor specializing in designing and building custom projects to enhance outdoor living such as patio covers, outdoor kitchens, sunrooms, fireplaces, screened porches, pergolas and decorative patios. They have completed over 700 projects in the Houston area since 2004.

Texas Custom Patios provides a turnkey custom design project. Their specialty is building projects that look original to the home, including room additions, guest houses, decks, outdoor kitchens and custom patios.

You will know exactly what you are getting when you choose to work with Texas Custom Patios. Detailed designs include rendered views showing the completed project on the back of your home. If you would like a detailed explanation of the process they use from design to completed construction, please visit their website where they will walk you through the steps. There is also a huge photo gallery with hundreds of pictures of completed projects to give ideas for your dream backyard.

Texas Custom Patios serves much of the Greater Houston area including Cypress, The Woodlands, Fulshear, Katy, Missouri City, Richmond, Rosenberg, Pearland, Spring, Sugar Land and Tomball.

Contact Texas Custom Patios today to schedule your free design consultation at 281.265.1994 or visit www.texascustompatios.com.

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281-265-1994 TexasCustomPatios.com 24

MARCH 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

Complete Design Service

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BUSINESS BRIEFS

The Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance Recent Ribbon Cuttings

Thursday, January 10th Independence Title Company 29810 FM 1093, Ste. A, Fulshear, TX 77441

Thursday, January 17th Pepperoni’s of Fulshear 8510 FM 359, Fulshear, TX 77441

Friday, January 18th National Entertainment Discount Service Company 22502 Smokey Hill, Katy, TX 77450

Friday, January 25th Ingrid Graphics Richmond, TX

281-633-8473 www.integrity-tire.com

921 E Highway 90A • Richmond, TX 77406

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Up to 5 qts Includes Tire Rotation

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Not valid with any other offers or promotions.

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Winterize Your Car

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www.absolutelybrazos.com l MARCH 2013

25

FILM REVIEW

By Nick Nicholson

R

ichard LaGravenese is back in the director’s chair helming the supernatural love story Beautiful Creatures, the first novel from the best-selling series of the same name by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl. The film opens up with its teen star, Ethan Wate (Alden Ehrenreich), suffering from the same recurring dream. A young woman is waiting for him on a Civil War battlefield. As he desperately attempts to reach her, he is killed by a lightning bolt crack ala Groundhog Day…over and over again. The danger of this strange dream world, however, is preferable to Ethan’s waking existence in Gatlin, South Carolina, a small, conservative Southern town that hasn’t caught up to the 21st century. It is a place where nothing ever

changes and nothing ever happens. Trapped at home with a father who has completely withdrawn since the sudden death of Ethan’s mother, Ethan yearns for a life he can only read about in books.

But Ethan’s mundane world is shaken with the arrival of Lena Duchannes (Alice Englert), the beautiful and enigmatic niece of Macon Ravenwood (Jeremy Irons), the reclusive owner of gothic Ravenwood Manor. Ethan finds himself immediately drawn to Lena, even though destruction seems to inexplicably follow her and it becomes apparent that she is a Caster, with powers beyond her control. The town, led by conservative Mrs. Lincoln (Emma Thompson), wants her banished.

Even Gatlin’s all-knowing librarian, Amma (Viola Davis), is afraid history may repeat itself – a history of family secrets and a curse that looms for Lena – as she approaches her 16th birthday. It is that time when a Caster is chosen by the forces of either the Light or the Dark. But Lena’s fate may already be sealed by the curse that draws both herself and Ethan into a tangled web of spells and peril from which there may be no escape.

Alden Ehrenreich as Ethan Wate and Alice Englert as Lena Duchannes in Beautiful Creatures.

At first glance, Beautiful Creatures seems quite similar to a number of the tweener film series that have hit the big screen, most notably that of the Twilight genre. Yes, there are similarities, but one could come to expect that with a film focusing on young requited love. The direction of the film and pacing was sufficient, but what stood out more than anything was the chemistry of the cast. With the leads being such young performers (Ehrenreich and Englert), it makes perfect sense to throw the brilliant Jeremy Irons into the fray. The cinematography is really quite lush, and I found the action sequences to be more than enough to keep those in the audience interested.

The story is fresh and should make for the perfect date movie.

Beautiful Creatures Starring: Alden Ehrenreich, Alice Englert & Jeremy Irons Director: Richard LaGravenese Company: Warner Now Showing: In Local Theatres MPAA Rating: PG-13 Grade: AJeremy Irons as Macon Ravenwood and Viola Davis as Amma.

Photos Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures.

Nick Nicholson is the Film and Entertainment Critic for CNN Radio, the Fort Bend Star and absolutely! focus media. In addition, his reviews can be seen and heard in numerous other print/media outlets in Texas and Oklahoma. Mr. Nicholson is in great demand as a speaker to both public and civic organizations on the subject of film and the entertainment industry. He is the co-founder of the Houston Film Critics Society and is currently the President of the organization.

26

MARCH 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

C O M M U N I T Y

MARKETPLACE Hernandez

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24 Hr. 281-342-2198

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We appreciate your vote of confidence.

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raysfurniture@sbcglobal.net Living Room - Dining Room - Bedroom - Mattresses www.absolutelybrazos.com l MARCH 2013

27

By Joan Frances

A LITTLE PIECE O F H I S T ORY

Welcome to

Needville A Country Casual Town

Main Street Needville, 1923.

T

exas history is defined by the early settlers. Stephen F. Austin became legendary because of the accomplishments of the “Old 300.” In 1821, an empressario contract was granted to him by Spain to settle three hundred families in Spanish Texas. When Austin headed out to find land for his colony, he followed the Brazos and Colorado Rivers.

Fifty-seven of the three hundred families received land in what is now Fort Bend County.

The attraction to Fort Bend was the promise of inexpensive land at only twelve and a half cents an acre. Colonists moved from Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama.

Some sailed from New Orleans and Mobile to the Texas port cities of Brazoria and Matagorda. If a family farmed, they would receive 177 acres. If they raised stock, 4,428 acres were allotted. Colonies were established along the Brazos River, communities grew and businessmen set out to establish new towns.

Fourteen miles south of Richmond in Fort Bend County is the small town of Needville. August Schendel, a German immigrant from Washington County, with his wife, Louisa, and two children,

28

purchased a 160 acre tract of land in 1891.

The following year, Schendel opened a general store, built a home and a cotton gin and named the area Schendelville. In 1894, Schendel applied for a post office using the name Needmore as a joke, because the place needed more of everything.

There was already a Needmore, Texas, so Schendel settled on the name Needville.

The early settlers of Needville were mostly of German and Czech heritage. As time went on, Schendel platted the town and began selling lots. The first school was opened in 1897. By 1914, there were three general stores, two cotton gins and a movie theater in the town boasting a population of about 100.

Needville’s economy was mainly farming and ranching but in the 1920s and 1930s, oil, natural gas and sulfur were discovered in the area. In 1918, the Galveston, Harrisburg and San Antonio Railroad was built through the community enhancing trade and transportation. The greatest benefit to the city came when Highway 36 was paved and opened for traffic in 1932, allowing residents to commute to Rosenberg and Richmond.

Today, the population of Needville is approximately 2,823 according to the 2012

Dixie Saloon, 1915.

MARCH 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

census. The community has a country casual feel with charming old and new homes in neighborhoods lined with trees and grass. Downtown Needville is a historic area comprised of renovated buildings with merchants of hardware, antiques, offices and restaurants.

This innovative city is known for hosting events to stimulate local business.

The Needville Harvest Festival, founded in 1983, is held every October. This is a non-profit organization with the proceeds of the festival benefiting the development of Harvest Park, the Community Center and funding scholarships for local high school students. The Creekside Hunting

City Café and Meat Market, 1920-1930.

and Fishing Show held every spring on the campus of Creekside Christian Fellowship is a free event hosting exhibitors of hunting and fishing equipment, dog clinics, shooting competitions and demonstrations. The Needville Citywide Garage Sale is on a Saturday every March and September. Pickers from all over Fort Bend and Houston come to find treasures and explore the city. With so much to offer visitors, Needville makes a great destination point. Stephen F. Austin would be amazed.

D&S Antiques & Collectibles Mall •in Historical Downtown Rosenberg•

More than 15 Independent Dealers Dealer Spaces Available

Enjoy The Sight & Sounds While You Shop Around!

Wed-Sat 10-5

Sun 12-5

•

801 2 nd Street

•

281-232-0035 or 832-595-9600

3 Sisters Quilt Shop

D&S Refinishing & Restoration

(inside D&S Mall)

•Historical and Vintage Fabrics and Notions

• Caning • Weaving • Some Reupholstery

Beginner Quilt Classes for all Ages and Styles of Sewing!

• Complete Repair and Refinishing Shop • Sewing Machine Repair Like Us or Follow Us

3sistersquiltshop @gmail.com

Achieve the

Ultimate Smile!

People seeking cosmetic or reconstructive dental work should do research before making a decision in order to ensure proper care. As ADA recognized specialists, Prosthodontists are qualified to offer services in state-of-the-art procedures and techniques, such as: cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, complete and partial dentures, replacing lost or loose teeth, jaw joint problems (TMJ), traumatic injuries, snoring and sleep disorders and oral cancer reconstruction.

Replacing missing teeth in one day! before

after

Restore your smile with cosmetic dentistry! after

before

Implant Dentures in one day!

Stuart Rimes, DDS, MS

Crowns, Implants, Cosmetic, Reconstructive Dentistry Board Certified Prosthodontist

281-313-1565 15958 City Walk, Ste. 230, Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.RimesDDS.com | e-mail: dr.rimes@comcast.net

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one of THe

ToP 100

HOSPITALS in THe naTion.

As one of Thomson Reuters’ 100 Top Hospitals,® we’re setting a higher standard for healthcare.

Every year, Thomson Reuters conducts a quantitative study to determine the top 100 U.S. hospitals delivering exceptional care–care that saves lives, decreases the length of patient stays and minimizes complications. For the second consecutive year, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital made this prestigious list. We’re honored to be recognized a long w ith Memor ia l Hermann Northwest, Southeast, Southwest, Katy and The Woodlands hospitals.

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