May-June 2022 - Absolutely Brazos Magazine

MAY/ JUNE 2022

Serving Richmond, Rosenberg, Fulshear & Needville

OakBend Medical Center

Central Fort Bend Chamber

Wound Care and Hyperbaric Center

Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels

Introduces Brand New State-of-the-Art

KEEP YOU MOVING

without joint pain

Live life without joint pain.

At Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine in Sugar Land, we know that joint pain affects every part of your life. With treatment plans customized for you, our specialists offer a full range of advanced nonsurgical and surgical techniques. Our expert joint care includes: • Innovative pain control methods • Physical therapy to improve mobility and range of motion • The latest technology, including minimally invasive surgical techniques that help reduce recovery time And, with enhanced safety measures in place, you can rest assured your safety is our priority.

Sugar Land

Schedule an appointment: houstonmethodist.org/jointpain 281.201.0396

40 Years … Still Strong in Song!

A Fort Bend Boys Choir Spring Concert Celebration Nothing but good luck will be happening on Friday, May 13th. Why? The Fort Bend Boys Choir of Texas is celebrating their 40th Ruby Anniversary with a Spring Concert Celebration! Take note of the 7 pm start time of this exceptional event at Christ Church Sugar Land at 3300 Austin Parkway.

support of the Fort Bend Boys Choir of Texas! And if you know of any families with young boys, it is the perfect time to invite them to a choir concert so they can see what their sons could be a part of – a time-honored tradition that not only teaches music but also life lessons such as leadership, self-confidence, etiquette and so much more. Audition information

NEWSWORTHY

can be found on the choir website.

For ticket information, contact the choir office at 281-240-3800 or use the previously mentioned link. More information is available on their Facebook page, too. Attend the Fort Bend Boys Choir’s Spring Concert and be a part of celebrating 40 Years … Still Strong in Song!

Jackson Burke and Jackson Schroeder.

The Town-Training Choir will open the evening followed by the award-winning Tour Choir and a special appearance by Cantabilé, their Alumni Choir of changed voices. Tickets are only $18 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. Purchase tickets at the door or through the website at https://fbbctx.org/product/ spring-concert-tickets/.

This year’s Fort Bend Boys Choir theme – 40 Years … Still Strong in Song!

– is an appropriate one as they navigated safely through the pandemic. When other choir groups were not meeting, the Fort Bend Boys Choir did, following safety protocols including singing while wearing a mask and social distancing in rehearsal. Their diligence and care paid off this year, as they are celebrating their 40th Ruby Anniversary! Over 7,000 boys have participated in this nonprofit organization’s music programs, providing hope and inspiration through song.

This concert is a great way to herald in the spring season while showing your

Promo code: BRAZOS 15 | Expiration date: 6/30/22

MAY / JUNE 2022 l

1

CONTRIBUTORS

{Newsworthy} 1 40 YEARS . . . STILL STRONG IN SONG!

MAY/JUNE 2022 VOLUME 10 | NUMBER 3

{COVER STORY}

A Fort Bend Boys Choir Spring Concert Celebration

14

9 COVID-19 IN THE AUTISM COMMUNITY LIVE ZOOM SESSION

Steve Kursar Auto Enthusiast Page 18

Peter Hotez, MD, Ph.D and Dr. Emily Hotez, Ph.D.

18

10 LA COCINA MEXICAN RESTAURANT BEGINS PLANNING

15th Annual Cinco de Mayo Celebration Benefiting Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels

Historic {Downtown } 12 ROSENBERG

11 “WE ARE FORT BEND” PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT Sarfraz Aly, MD, OakBend CEO Joe Freudenberger and Magdalena Benavides LVN, MHA. Photo by Kelley Sweet Photography.

6 OAKBEND MEDICAL CENTER INTRODUCES BRAND NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART WOUND CARE AND HYPERBARIC CENTER

OakBend Medical Center’s new Thomas Brother’s Wound Care Clinic for wound care and hyperbaric services is one of the few facilities in Fort Bend County to offer hyperbaric oxygen therapy for patients with hardto-heal wounds that are not responding to traditional healing methods. This new and improved facility showcases renovated flooring, soothing classical music and soft lighting, all designed to make patients feel relaxed and comfortable while they heal.

{Column} 14 FORT BEND STRONG Known But To God

18 AUTO REVIEW

2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

2

{Medical Focus}

May 2nd at George Memorial Library

12 FORT BEND SENIORS MEALS ON WHEELS

To Host Friend Day Round Up

26 TEAM UP WITH YOUR DOCTOR FOR BETTER HEALTH Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital

DR. BETTY BAITLAND

Named Child Advocate of the Year

13 LIBRARIES’ SUMMER READING CHALLENGE Starts May 30th

16 FORT BEND RAINBOW ROOM AND FEDERAL MAINTENANCE SERVICES, INC.

The Honorable Pete Olson Contributor Page 14

{In Every Issue} 4 EXCLAMATION POINTS! 20 OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART OF BRAZOS

Announce Partnership for the 11th Annual Pot of Gold Classic

17 MEN WHO COOK

Exceeded Fundraiser Goal

25 FORT BEND CHILDREN’S DISCOVERY CENTER May 2022 Happenings

{Business Briefs} 19 KnILE CENTER

Expanding to New Location

24 CENTRAL FORT BEND CHAMBER Recruits for Leadership Fort Bend, Class of 2023

ON THE COVER: Sarfraz Aly, MD, OakBend CEO Joe Freudenberger and Magdalena Benavides LVN, MHA. Photo by Kelley Sweet Photography.

MAY / JUNE 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

EXCLAMATION POINTS! Associate Publisher, KAY GARRETT

It’s a Special Time of Year To say May and June are busy is definitely an understatement. Time has taken off, and it’s that whirlwind time of year again as we celebrate Mother’s Day, dads and grads and the end of school. These events make us reflect on memories past and present as we celebrate the ones we love.

OakBend Medical Center is our featured cover story. Their new state-of-the-art Thomas Brother’s Wound Care Clinic is now one of the community’s top facilities for diagnosing and treating wound care needs. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is a treatment is used to speed up the Kay Garrett donning her hat for healing process of gangrene, stubborn wounds the Reining Strength Derby Day and infections in which tissues are starved for gala. oxygen. This new treatment aids in the process by supplying oxygen to the wound. Read more on page 6. We are so blessed to have this new technology right here in our Brazos community. Thank you OakBend Medical Center for continuing to provide world class healthcare!

Shopping or dining out with mom, dad or grads? Check out our Historic Downtown Rosenberg districts for some great places. Shop, sip and dine locally. Our small businesses appreciate it!

If you are looking for some fun things to do in our Brazos community, check out our calendar of events at http://absolutelybrazos.com/community-events/.

The Fort Bend Museum, George Ranch Historical Park and the Rosenberg Railroad Museum will be hosting some great events. Visit www.fortbendmuseum.org, www.georgeranch.org and www.rosenbergrrmuseum.org.

I hope you enjoy this whirlwind season and celebrate the ones you love. Love hard; love big.

I would like to wish moms a Happy Mother’s Day, dads a Happy Father’s Day and to all Brazos grads, congratulations on your achievements!

Absolutely yours,

Kay Garrett From being a Mom to Grammie, Kay Garrett enjoys her grandsons Graham and Canon Kiehl.

kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Let us hear from you Send in any family celebration pictures or school happenings to: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com 1. Pictures must be 300 dpi high-resolution.

2. Include the first and last names of each person in the picture in order, with a short description about the event.

4

MAY / JUNE 2022 l TO ADVERTISE: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Vol. 10 No. 3 MAY/JUNE 2022 WWW.ABSOLUTELYBRAZOS.COM absolutely! focus media P. O. Box 1253 Richmond, Texas 77406

PUBLISHER Patti Parish-Kaminski A S S O C IAT E P U B L I S H E R Kay Garrett AC C OUNT EXECUTIVE Gena Horak A RT D I R E C T O R Grace Belleza WEB DESIGNER JOBpage Graphics S O C IA L M E D IA M A NA G E R Natalee Moore I T S U P P O RT A D M I N I S T R AT I V E / S A L E S A S S I S TA N T Kolton W. Kaminski CONTRIBUTORS Steve Kursar Pete Olson

A D V E RT I S I N G I N Q U I R I E S Kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com E D I T O R IA L S U B M I S S I O N S Patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Published by

Free Subscription.

Sign up at www.absolutelybrazos.com.

absolutely! Brazos eZine is published by absolutely! focus media, P. O. Box 1253, Richmond, Texas 77406. Copyright © 2022 by absolutely! focus media. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. absolutely! Brazos eZine does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial, nor do the publishers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. absolutely! Brazos eZine welcomes editorial submissions from its readers.

Sarfraz Aly, MD and Magdalena Benavides LVN, MHA.

COVER STORY Photos by Kelley Sweet Photography

The Thomas Brother’s Wound Care Clinic will aid wound healing by supplying oxygen to the wound. According to the Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Association, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) acts as a bactericidal, stops toxin production and promotes tissue growth to heal difficult wounds. During the procedure, a patient is placed in a compression chamber with increased pressure between 2.0 and 2.5 atmospheres absolute for 60 to 120 minutes, once or twice daily. In the chamber, the patient inhales 100% oxygen. Treatment usually runs for 15 to 20 sessions.

Introduces Brand New State-of-the-Art Wound Care and Hyperbaric Center

O

akBend Medical Center is very excited to introduce its new Thomas Brother’s Wound Care Clinic for wound care and hyperbaric services at 1705 Jackson Street in Richmond, located on the first floor. One of the few facilities in Fort Bend County to offer hyperbaric oxygen therapy for patients with hard-to-heal wounds that are not responding to traditional healing methods, OakBend’s new and improved facility showcases renovated flooring, soothing classical music and soft lighting, all designed to make each patient feel relaxed and welcome.

“OakBend’s highly skilled team of physicians, nurses and wound care specialists have advanced training and unmatched experience in wound healing in Fort Bend County,” said Christina Marquez, director of the new Thomas Brother’s Wound Care Clinic. “We offer some of the newest and most advanced equipment along with sophisticated therapies to treat specific wound care needs.”

Defining Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Hyperbaric oxygen therapy was originally used to treat deep sea divers who were thought to be suffering from the formation of air embolisms due to a too rapid ascent from their deep-sea dive. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been in use for about 40 years, so it is not new to Fort Bend County, but now there is a state-ofthe-art facility, totally updated with the latest technological advances, right here in the heart of the Richmond/Rosenberg community.

6

Conditions Treated

by Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) at OakBend is a treatment used to speed up the healing process of gangrene, stubborn wounds and infections in which tissues are starved for oxygen. OakBend’s patients breathe 100% oxygen inside a chamber that is pressurized at two to three times greater than atmospheric pressure.

Increasing the partial pressure of oxygen allows it to dissolve in the plasma, leaving the plasma supersaturated with oxygen. The increase in tissue oxygenation works to combat bacteria and promote angiogenesis.

Within OakBend Medical Center’s new Thomas Brother’s Wound Care Clinic, there is a monoplace chamber, which is a long plastic tube that resembles an MRI machine. At OakBend, each case is personally evaluated by a Wound Care and Hyperbaric specialist so that the most successful outcome is achieved for each individual patient.

Careful monitoring during the treatment sessions and follow-up by OakBend’s team is always precisely documented.

MAY / JUNE 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

The Technology and Treatment Process Patients have said that OakBend’s hyperbaric chamber looks like a small submarine. It is a hard-shelled pressure vessel made of steel and aluminum with view ports (windows) made of acrylic. The chamber has a human entry hatch, an airtight door to the hatch, and a gurney to lie on so that the patient can comfortably enter and exit the chamber. The patient is attended by a certified HBOT technician who never leaves the patient during the entire treatment process.

To begin the treatment process, patients put on special cotton scrubs, because no metal objects are allowed for safety reasons. HBOT technicians teach patients a specific procedure to “clear” their ears as the dive proceeds.

This is no different than going up in an airplane, where a person chews gum or swallows several times in order for the air pressure to equalize behind their ear drums.

Next, the patient lays on a gurney, and the technician slides the patient into place inside the chamber. Once the hatch closes, the quiet is all encompassing. The technician is visible

What OakBend Patients are Saying About The New Wound Care and Hyperbaric Center

structed to put on an oxygen mask, and the technician adjusts it to fit properly and comfortably. One hundred percent pure O2 is flowing in. The “dive” is just about to begin!

According to Dr. Joe Anzaldua, family practice specialist at OakBend Medical Center, “Chronic wounds include, but are not limited to, diabetic foot ulcers, venous leg ulcers and pressure ulcers. Although often difficult to treat, an understanding of the underlying pathophysiology and specific attention toward managing these perturbations can often lead to successful healing.

Our community now has the best of the best for diagnosing and treating our community.”

Dr. Sarfraz Aly is one of the many physicians at OakBend who utilizes the hyperbaric chamber with the help of his expertise in infection control to treat his patients and get them back to full recovery. through the view port. OakBend’s twoway intercom allows the technician to stay in constant communication with the patient. The patient is then in-

Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Right for You? If a patient has a wound that doesn’t heal properly, this may involve underlying issues. Underlying issues may include health issues, medications and other treatments and lifestyle factors. If the patient is battling a chronic

Intern Kris Celestin.

While Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is not appropriate for all patients, it is an effective therapy for many patients with wounds that will not heal properly.

An individualized care plan by an OakBend physician will determine if Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is the right course of treatment for you.

Some previous patients of OakBend’s new Thomas Brother’s Wound Care Clinic have achieved amazing outcomes and have had had glowing remarks about OakBend Medical Center.

“Wound Care Center is best in the state.” – JB “Have always had great service and friendly staff.” – D “I absolutely love this doctor’s office.” – K

For more information about the Thomas Brother’s Wound Care Clinic, located at 1705 Jackson Street in Richmond, call 281-633-4900 or visit

https://www.oakbendmedcenter.org/service/wound-care-center/.

Diets Role in Healing

Magdalena Benavides LVN, MHA, Regional Director of the wound care unit, oversees the daily operations of the Thomas Brother’s Wound Care Clinic as OakBend cares for countless patients daily. health issue, it can lower the body’s ability to heal. Common health problems that may affect healing, include diabetes, cancer, pulmonary disease, heart conditions, thyroid issues and GI diseases. Along with cancer, chemo and radiation can also have a great impact on the healing of a patient’s wound.

Of all the underlying health causes, diabetes makes up the majority of chronic wounds in patients. A diabetic patient’s wound heals slowly and can worsen rapidly, and therefore, requires close monitoring. Some factors that may interrupt the process of wound healing in a diabetic patient include elevated blood sugar, narrowed blood vessels that leads to decreased blood flow and oxygen, diabetic neuropathy (which causes a loss of sensation in the affected limb), immune system deficiency and infection.

Each year, about 80,000 adults with diabetes undergo a leg or foot amputation. Now, with the help of OakBend’s highly skilled doctors, nurses and wound care specialists, as well as the new and improved medical equipment, physicians hope to tackle the wound before it reaches the point of no return.

Of course, it is important to disclose all prior healthcare concerns regarding one’s wound when seeking wound care treatment. OakBend wound care specialists will check for these factors before deciding on a course of wound care treatment, to ensure the patient has optimal healing.

Along with OakBend Medical Center’s new Wound Care and Hyperbaric Center treatment, a diet plays an immense role in the process of the healing journey. It is necessary to keep the body hydrated, ensuring that one drinks six to eight cups of water a day and follows their physician’s orders. Dehydration can reduce the efficiency of blood circulation causing less oxygen to reach the wounded area. Protein deficiency can weaken the rebuilding stage of wound healing, causing damage to collagen production. Impairment of collagen production can lead to an increased risk of infection, as well as a reduction in wound strength. The main source of energy in one’s body and wound healing comes from carbohydrates and fats.

Cell membranes are created with the use of fatty acids, and one needs to increase intake to ensure proper healing maintenance.

OakBend’s Commitment to Individualized Care Plans Overcoming the factors that contribute to delayed healing are key components of OakBend’s comprehensive approach to wound care and present the primary challenges to the treatment of chronic wounds. When wounds fail to achieve sufficient healing after four weeks of standard care, reassessment of underlying pathology and consideration of the need for advanced therapeutic agents may be undertaken.

“Realizing the importance of a speedy recovery for everyone in our community, OakBend is committed to bringing the most advanced techniques for treating the most complex and slow healing wounds,” said Joe Freudenberger, CEO. “With our brand-new, state-ofthe-art facility, our specialists are even more equipped to implement personalized care plans for each patient.”

OakBend Medical Center’s Thomas Brother’s Wound Care Clinic is a highly specialized outpatient wound care treatment center dedicated to the care of patients with wounds. Since nonhealing wounds rarely result from a single cause, OakBend treats the whole person, not just the wound. OakBend’s approach to wound care is aggressive and comprehensive, coordinating traditional and advanced therapies that aid and accelerate the healing process.

Their team of experienced wound care specialists will assess each patient’s symptoms, determine the underlying cause of the non-healing wounds and customize the most effective treatment plan to stimulate healing. An OakBend wound care specialist will utilize best practices with a thorough patient evaluation and diagnostic testing to determine wound care procedures. An individualized care plan is then developed using evidence-based therapies that are highly effective in facilitating the healing process.

A non-healing wound should be a major concern. OakBend Medical Center’s new and state-of-the-art Wound Care and Hyperbaric Center is now one of the community’s top facilities for diagnosing and treating wound care needs. Don‘t wait! Contact the new and state-of-the-art Thomas Brother’s Wound Care Clinic at 281-633-4900 or https://www.oakbendmedcenter.org/ service/wound-care-center/.

OakBend CEO Joe Freudenberger.

NEWSWORTHY

Peter Hotez, MD, Ph.D and Dr. Emily Hotez, Ph.D. COVID-19 in the Autism Community Live Zoom Session on May 17th Hope For Three Autism Advocates in collaboration with Access Health is honored to announce an intimate session with world-renowned doctors Peter Hotez, M.D., Ph.D., father of an autistic daughter, dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine and codirector of the Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development in Houston, and his daughter, Dr. Emily Hotez, Ph.D. Emily is a developmental researcher and an Assistant Professor of Medicine at UCLA. She currently serves on the leadership team of the Autism Intervention Research Network on Physical Health. As a sibling to her autistic sister, Dr. Emily Hotez is committed to carrying out projects that adapt a neurodiversity-oriented lens toward health-promotion.

Join the one-hour live, informative, and educational Zoom session on May 17 at 2 pm CST. Pre-registration is required at https://www.hopeforthree.org/events/hotez/ for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Peter Hotez, M.D., Ph.D.

LIKE US

@absolutelybrazos

Tag Us as you are Out and About in the Heart of Brazos

MAY / JUNE 2022 l

9

NEWSWORTHY

La Cocina Mexican Restaurant Begins Planning 15th Annual Cinco de Mayo Celebration Benefiting Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels La Cocina Mexican Restaurant and Catering is gearing up for its 15th Annual Cinco de Mayo fundraiser benefiting Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels (FBS). Nearly 300 people are expected to attend the event, held at La Cocina in Richmond on Saturday, May 7th from 5 – 10:30 pm.

“One of the sayings we’ve come to adopt as a team is ‘hunger never takes a holiday’ – and in the past two years, we’ve learned it also doesn’t stop for a freeze or a pandemic. We’ve delivered nearly 800,000 meals over the last two years, and each week the pandemic has continued, we’ve added older adults who have nowhere else to turn for a meal to our programs. The numbers of those in need in our community just continues to rise,” said FBS Deputy Executive Director, Leah Ghobrial. “The generosity and commitment of our local community and businesses like La Cocina ensures that we can continue to support our senior neighbors, despite what challenges may come our way.”

Fort Bend Seniors provides hot, home-delivered meals to nearly 1,300 senior citizens daily, many who live alone and cannot prepare their own meals. In addition, FBS offers older adults meals at seven congregate centers as well as transportation to and from the centers, fitness classes, recreational activities, case management, emergency meals and more.

Andres Novoa first learned about Fort Bend Seniors and its mission to feed local seniors in 2005. Learning that local elders struggle to afford or prepare meals launched one the longest running fundraisers for Fort Bend Seniors, the pandemic’s impact on seniors has only strengthened his commitment.

“The pandemic has been hard for everyone in our community, but

10

Jose Vasquez, Katy Lee, Kristie Phillips, Andres Novoa, Kelly Clinton and Linda Nolty. especially difficult for seniors who already struggle with limited resources and support. We’re blessed to be living and working in a county with such incredible organizations, like Fort Bend Seniors, and filled with generous people who want to give back,” said owner Andres Novoa. “At La Cocina, we are thrilled to be able to host the 15th annual Cinco de Mayo, and invite the community to come out, have a good time, and help us crush hunger among our seniors in Fort Bend County!”

The event will include music, silent and live auctions, raffle drawings, drink specials and delicious Tex-Mex cuisine, all festively decorated for Cinco de Mayo. While the event takes place in Richmond, donations and proceeds will be used to serve seniors across Fort Bend and Waller counties. Everyone is welcome to join the celebration and support a worthy cause.

Individual VIP tickets can be purchased for $150 each, or VIP tables are available ranging in price from

$575 for a table for four to $1250 for a table for 10. If unable to attend the event, contributions and donations are welcome. For ticket purchases, contact Andres Novoa at 281-460-6479 and make checks payable to La Cocina Mexican Restaurant or purchase online at www.fortbendseniors.org. Donations (not tickets) are tax-deductible if donated directly to Fort Bend Seniors.

Fort Bend Seniors is qualified under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Service Code as a non-profit corporation, and as such, contributions are tax deductible. For more information, visit www.fortbendseniors.org.

Submit newsworthy items to Patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

MAY / JUNE 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

NEWSWORTHY

“We Are Fort Bend” Photography Exhibit Opens May 2nd at George Memorial Library Fort Bend County Libraries (FBCL), in conjunction with the Fort Bend County Diversity Over Division Initiative and the Fort Bend Photography Club, announces the opening of a special exhibit, “We Are Fort Bend,” on Monday, May 2nd, in the Bohachevsky Gallery at George Memorial Library, located at 1001 Golfview in Richmond.

The public is invited to attend a reception announcing the winners of FBCL’s “We Are Fort Bend” photography contest on Saturday, May 7th, from 2 to 3 pm, in the gallery. Light refreshments will be served at the reception, sponsored by the Friends of the Library, the Diversity Over Division Initiative, and the Fort Bend Photography Club.

The exhibit, which showcases the people, culture, nature, and places that make Fort Bend County special, will be on display through June 30th.

The photography exhibit features entries from FBCL’s amateur photography contest. Winning photographs were determined by a panel of judges, who made their determinations based on relationship to contest theme, composition, focus, lighting, emotional impact, and creativity.

“We appreciate all the photographers who entered the contest and shared their interpretations of what makes our county a wonderful place to live and work,” said Library Director Clara Russell. “We had many wonderful photos that were entered, and we are honored to be able to share them with the community.”

The exhibit may be viewed in the Bohachevsky Gallery during regular library hours. To view the exhibit online, visit www.fortbend.lib.tx.us and click on the “We Are Fort Bend Photo Exhibit” icon on the lower half of the website.

For more information, call 281-6334734.

MAY / JUNE 2022 l

11

Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels to Host Friend Day Round Up On Friday, May 6th, Fort Bend Seniors (FBS) is hosting a Friend Day Round Up at each of its eight senior congregate locations from 9 am – 12:30 pm. Current center attendees are encouraged to bring a fellow senior, 60 years or older, to enjoy a morning of free activities, lunch and door prizes.

“We have been thrilled to welcome back our former center participants in the past few months and are now excited to welcome their friends and neighbors to join us,” said Rick Branek, FBS Field Operations Manager. “The pandemic caused so many to self-isolate and avoid those social activities they once enjoyed. With numbers of new cases going down, high vaccination rates, and our own safety measures, these seniors can finally socialize, have fun and meet new people in a safe and welcoming environment.” All older adults, age 60+, are invited to attend the event and learn more about the free nutrition and wellness programs available through Fort Bend Seniors.

The congregate – or community – centers began reopening last June after the pandemic forced their closure for over 17 months. All locations are now open Monday through Friday, 9 am to 12:30 pm, and offer activities such as fitness classes, arts and crafts, bingo, lunch and more. For those who no longer drive, door-to-door transportation is made available through partnerships with Fort Bend County Transit and Colorado Valley Transit.

NEWSWORTHY

Carolyn McLean, George Starks, Alton Wilkerson, Lorine Henderson and Anna Wilkerson.

FBS services and programs are offered free of charge and enable local seniors to remain independent and in their own homes for as long as possible. For Friend Day Round Up information, call 281-633-7049 or visit fortbendseniors.org to learn how to donate or volunteer to support the cause. For a list of participating centers, visit bit.ly/FBScenters.

Dr. Betty Baitland Named Child Advocate of the Year

CAFB Board President Nancy Olson, Dr. Betty Baitland and CASA Program Director Metoyer Martin.

Dr. Betty Baitland was recently honored as the Child Advocate of the Year for 2021 at Child Advocates of Fort Bend’s Volunteer Celebration at Sugar Creek Country Club. More than 220 volunteers, community partners and staff attended.

12

“This advocate has gone above and beyond, and her actions will have a long-lasting impact for the children we serve and for our community,” said Child Advocates of Fort Bend Chief Executive Officer Ruthanne Mefford. “Betty has a lifelong passion for children and has dedicated her career to advancing education opportunities and achievement for children and youth across Fort Bend County.

“Betty served as our Board Parliamentarian for five years, Vice President in 2019, President in 2020 and Past President for two terms, first in 2021 and then when we invited her back to serve this year for a second term as Past President,” continued Mefford. “She was an inaugural member of our Voices for Children sustainable giving program and our Education Council where her vast experience and understanding of resources available to children has informed our educational advocacy for children in foster care. She is someone we seek out for advice and to discuss new programming, strategy and fundraising ideas. Betty is a true gem, and we honor her for her passion for CAFB, dedication to the children and her incredible generosity.”

To see a list of all of the honorees or to learn more about volunteer opportunities with Child Advocates of Fort Bend, go to https://www.cafb.org/events/volunteer-banquet/.

MAY / JUNE 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

NEWSWORTHY

Historic Downtown Rosenberg DINE • SIP • SHOP • LOCAL

Libraries’ Summer Reading Challenge Starts May 30th Fort Bend County Libraries presents special reading challenges during the summer to encourage reading among children from birth and up, as well as teens and adults. “Oceans of Possibilities” is the theme for this year’s Summer Reading Challenge. Online registration for the 2022 Summer Reading Challenge, which takes place at all Fort Bend County Libraries (FBCL) locations, will begin on Monday, May 30th, and continue through August 31st. Library programs and activities for children begin during the week of June 6th, and continue through July 30th.

Children from infancy through schoolage are invited to come to the library to read a lot of great books and join in some fun activities to kick off a great summer! Younger children will enjoy the “Summer Reading Challenge for Children,” while students in grades 6-8 can participate in activities for older kids in the “Middle School Summer Challenge.”

Teens in high school can participate with adults in the “YA/Adult Summer Reading Challenge” to complete individual online challenges and win prizes.

There is no charge to join the Summer Reading Challenge, and it is open to everyone, regardless of the county of residence. Participants may register at any Fort Bend County library, or they may register online by going to www. fortbend.lib.tx.us and clicking on the “SRC Sign-Up” image, which will become available on May 30th. When the online registration form has been completed, readers will then have their own online page on which to record their books and reading time.

Reading rewards can be redeemed beginning Monday, June 6th. The last day to pick up awards is August 31st.

Prizes must be collected from the “primary library of use” that the reader indicated on the registration form.

For more information, call 281-6334734 or visit www.fortbend.lib.tx.us.

Open Wednesday - Saturday Rosenberg’s Finest Wine Room

Wine Club

Current Museum hours: Wed-Fri. 10 am - 3 pm Sat. 10 am - 4 pm • Sun. 1 pm - 4 pm Located in Historic DownTown Rosenberg 1921 Avenue F • Rosenberg, Texas 77471 281-633- 2846 w w w. R o s e n b e r g R R m u s e u m . o r g

Boutique Wines Craft Beer

1st Tuesday every month

Bingo

2nd Thursday of each month

1917 Avenue G Trivia Night Historic Downtown Last Wednesday Rosenberg 77471 of each month www.BRvino.com (281) 762-0900 Check Facebook for events!

Jeffrey C. McClellan CPA, PLLC Controller-Accounting-Tax Proudly Located in Historic Downtown Rosenberg

Designs in Fine Jewelry, LLC “Your Hometown Jeweler”

281-725-6085 830 3rd Street • Suite 205 Rosenberg, Tx 77471 www.jcm-cpa.com

Chris Dostal, Owner

281-342-2112 • dostalsjewelry.com 940 Third St., Rosenberg, TX 77471

T

Known But To

hose revered four words are carved into the white marble of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. Sadly, those four words apply to many graves here in Fort Bend County. These forgotten lives have common traits. They tend to be in cemeteries of people of color.

Some are likely the last resting place of slaves. Many are humans who were still denied their basic rights by states clinging to racism with Jim Crow laws after slavery was eliminated in our Civil War. All of these grave sites have been poorly maintained. Some are inaccessible without a chain saw and cutters to fight through dense brush. Many tombstones have fallen over or lie in pieces. Some have fire ants and weeds covering the graves. All of us in Fort Bend should feel concern for allowing this situation to occur.

God

During Black History Month 2022, I sought to do a weekly social media post on African Americans from Fort Bend who made Fort Bend Strong. I started with the first African American in United States history to be elected sheriff of a county, Walter Moses Burton, here in Fort Bend. Sheriff Burton was born into slavery, became our elected sheriff, and served seven years as our elected Texas State Senator. Next on my list was Olympic Gold Medal swimmer and the pride of Austin High, Simone Manuel.

My third posting was about Benjamin Franklin Williams. I learned Williams lived in the Freedman’s town of Kendleton, but there was controversy as to where and when he was buried.

The Texas State Historical Association said the “date and place of his death are not known.” Other sources said he was buried in Kendleton.

The most extreme example of forgotten gravesites was the “Sugar Land 95.” Ninety-five victims – 94 men and one woman – were discovered in unmarked graves during construction of the James Reese Career and Technical Center in 2018. They were victims of the Convict Lease Program. This horrific program used a loophole in the Thirteenth Amendment to imprison freed slaves on false charges, so they could be turned over to the landowners to work the sugar cane fields. The landowners did not care if they worked these “new” slaves to death. Some of the Sugar Land 95 were buried so quickly that their leg irons were still on their bones. The landowners would then get another prisoner from prison and work him or her to death. This practice went on for nearly thirty years.

We are fortunate for our community’s response to the discovery of the Sugar Land 95. Fort Bend ISD sought advice from local experts like Reginald Moore and other interested organizations. A common plan emerged: mark the graves, get DNA evidence to identify the 95, and raise private funds to build a museum and learning center near the eternal resting place of these forgotten people. The Sugar Land 95 showed that we are Fort Bend Strong!

14

MAY / JUNE 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Last month, I found Williams’ grave in Bates Allen County Park in Kendleton. A ratty sign that says “Grave Site” is all that marks where his body lies. A distant sign says, “Newman Chapel Cemetery.” Quite frankly, it is offensive that the final resting place of a true Fort Bend hero has been allowed to fall into such disrepair. His tombstone had fallen over a long time ago.

It was impacted deep into the ground. Most of it was covered with grass and fire ants. After twenty minutes of gently digging around tombstone, I was able to move it slightly. A tiny snake crawled out when I finally freed the stone.

Nick Landowski.

Benjamin Franklin Williams’ grave in Bates Allen County Park in Kendleton.

Williams was born into slavery in 1819. He was sold to slave owners in South Carolina and Tennessee before being sold to a Texas owner in 1859. He used his freedom after the Civil War to spread his Christian faith and serve his fellow countrymen.

He was the first ordained black Methodist minister in Texas, a three-term elected Texas State Representative, and Kendleton’s first U.S. Postmaster General. He died in February 27, 1886. To honor his legacy, I used a soft scrub brush, a bucket of tap water and fifteen minutes of elbow grease to clean Representative Williams’ tombstone. Benjamin Franklin Williams was, is, and will always be Fort Bend Strong!

The story does not end there. One hundred yards from Representative Williams’ grave is another historic black cemetery – Oak Hill Cemetery. There’s a county sign in the middle of a field recognizing Oak Hill, but there are no tombstones visible. For-

tunately, a fellow member of the Exchange Club of Sugar Land, Nick Landowski, had an idea where the cemetery was located.

Nick had been working with interested parties for over ten years to protect this historic cemetery. Nick became an army of one, and the cemetery was swallowed up by the brush. It took Nick and I two attempts to cut through the brush to uncover a tombstone. Five volunteers from Exchange cut an 8’ x 8’ hole in the brush. We discovered almost thirty tombstones, parts of tombstones, or grave markers. My church, Christ Church in Sugar Land, also got involved. Glenn Morrison is a fellow parishioner and president of the Historic Cemeteries of Fort Bend County Preservation Society. Glenn joined Nick and I the next week after we had marked all of the historic artifacts with GPS coordinates. All of the tombstones in Oak Hill are African American, with many born into slavery. There is no pattern to the placement of the graves. There were parts of the brush we could not get through. We uncovered thirty burial locations; there may be thirty more out there waiting to be rediscovered. No one knows.

In a recent article in the Fort Bend Star, the head of the Fort Bend County Historical Commission’s cemetery committee, Robert Crosser, said that over one-half of Fort Bend’s 170 cemeteries are abandoned. Clearly, we have a lot of work to do, together, to address the problem. That’s Fort Bend Strong!

Please do not rush off and take action at our historic cemeteries without first contacting the county for guidance. These are the final resting places of human beings and must be respected. I had to file paperwork with the county to take the corrective actions I have taken thus far. Please contact Nick or me via the Exchange Club of Sugar Land’s website, www.ecsl.org, if you would like to join us on future efforts. I’m always available at pete@absolutelyfocusmedia.com.

As always, stay Fort Bend Strong.

MAY / JUNE 2022 l

15

NEWSWORTHY

Fort Bend Rainbow Room and Federal Maintenance Services, Inc. Announce Partnership for the 11th Annual Pot of Gold Classic Fort Bend Rainbow Room is pleased to announce Federal Maintenance Services, Inc. as the Title Sponsor for the 11th Annual Pot of Gold Classic. “We have been involved with the Fort Bend Rainbow Room since 2010 because we felt it was in our best interest to associate with a program in our local community. Knowing that our financial contributions are an investment that help provide emergency and transitional supplies to Fort Bend County children and adults, our decision was not a difficult one. We will continue to contribute to this fine organization for as long as we are able,” said Tim Garcia, Federal Maintenance Services, Inc. The Pot of Gold Classic will be held at Sweetwater Country Club in Sugar Land on Monday, May 2nd. Lunch and registration begin at 11:30 am. The tournament will kick off with a shotgun start at 1 pm with dinner and awards to follow at 6 pm. Player and team registration is open on the Rainbow Room’s website at www.fbrr.org/golf. Players have the option to register individually for $150, or as a foursome for $600.

The Fort Bend Rainbow Room is grateful to the community for their support of the tournament through spon-

Title Sponsor Federal Maintenance Services’ Tim and Clay Garcia.

sorships and donations. In addition to Federal Maintenance Services Inc., the Rainbow Room is pleased to recognize other notable sponsors including: PJs of Houston, Planned Community Developers, NRG – WA Parish Plant, Always In Season, Dr. Suleman Lalani, Professional Janitorial Services and Rob and Emily Calbert.

All tournament proceeds support the mission of Fort Bend Rainbow Room to provide emergency and transitional supplies to Fort Bend County children and adults involved with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

Visit www.fbrr.org/golf or contact potofgoldclassic@gmail.com for more information.

Check out Community Events Want at www.absolutelyBrazos.com to know what’s going on in your And list your non-profit Community Event for Free! community?

E-mail patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com 16

MAY / JUNE 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

NEWSWORTHY

Men Who Cook Attendees Danced the Night Away and Exceeded the Goal for the Fundraiser Where Children Learn and Grow

ck To a B

Now Registering for Fall

Janice Knight and Chip Sutton.

Lamar Educational Awards Foundation (L.E.A.F.) held its 2022 Men Who Cook fundraiser at Safari Texas in February. While attendees enjoyed the musical talents of Ken Mondshine and the Brotherhood Band, everyone ate their way through the culinary creations of Lamar Consolidated Independent School District’s community and district staff.

The live auction netted over $20,000, and the silent auction helped boost the total raised at this time to more than $115,000. Since Men Who Cook is one of L.E.A.F.’s major fundraisers, its success depends on the wonderful community members who so graciously volunteer their time to prepare their favorite dishes and to the sponsors of the event.

A competition was added this year, and the attendees were given two chips to vote for their best savory and best sweet bites. The competition included 59 cooks. The winner of the Sweet Bite of the Night was Gary Vincek, and the Savory Bite of the Night winner was Tom Hebert.

During the evening, former Executive Director Janice Knight was recognized for her 20 years of leadership for L.E.A.F. “L.E.A.F. has been hit hard by COVID-19 and having such a successful 2022 Men Who Cook draw the same excitement and enthusiasm from the community as it has in years past, bring us immense joy. Having exceeded our $100,000 goal will help the foundation return to a level of grant giving that our teachers and students deserve. We could not have done it without you!” stated Charles A. “Chip” Sutton, President of the L.E.A.F. Board of Directors.

L.E.A.F.’s Board of Directors thanks the community for their continued partnership in making a difference in the educational opportunities for the students and teachers of Lamar CISD. To donate, visit https://www.givergy.us/leafgrants or contact April Nemec at April.nemec@lcisd.org or 832.223.0334.

l

o o Sch

Infants

Mention Ad.

Must be registered by June 30, 2022. Supply fee and security deposit not included in special.

Toddlers Monday 3 & 4 year-old thru Friday 6:30 am Private, Full-Day to 6 pm Pre-K Programs K-5th After-School Programs for Pick-Up from Thomas, Williams, Arredondo, Carter & Hutchison Elementary

814 FM 2977 281-239-2110 Richmond www.gbkidsacademy.com twkaminski@sbcglobal.net 77469 MAY / JUNE 2022 l

17

absolutely AUTO REVIEW

By Steve Kursar

2022 MERCEDESBENZ E-CLASS

T

he 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was recently refreshed with a more dynamic and sportier exterior, redesigned headlamps and taillamps, radiator grille and bumper and even more comfort. It also packs in so much more technology that you may need to study the owner’s manual thoroughly in order to fully appreciate the car.

The E-Class and its predecessor models are the best-selling model series in the history of Mercedes-Benz. Although the very first E-Class mid-sized models were technically produced starting in 1953 and are highly prized today by collectors, the first true E-Class sedans began life in 1993 as “executive cars.”

Those E 320 sedans were both luxurious but could also drive comfortably and travel safely on Germany’s famous Autobahn where an enforced speed limit really doesn’t exist.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class base E-350 sedan comes with an MSRP price tag of $54,950. Under the hood, you’ll find a 255 hp, 2.0 liter four-cylinder inline turbocharged engine mated to a nine-speed transmission. EPA fuel economy estimates are 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.

The next step up is the E-450 with a 362 hp, 3.0 liter sixcylinder inline turbocharged engine that’s also mated to the nine-speed transmission. What makes this model special is that the powertrain is enhanced with the addition of the electric EQ Boost mild hybrid feature which results in improved performance and efficiency. Fuel economy numbers for the E-450 are 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.

The E-Class interior is beautifully appointed as can be expected from Mercedes-Benz. The cockpit boasts some very advanced technology engineered to allow you to keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road at all times. The MBUX infotainment system is powered by a powerful system that incorporates brilliant screens and graphics, a customizable display, learning-capable software and Voice Control with natural language recognition. It takes a bit of learning to master it, but in time the MBUX system becomes second nature.

The top-of-the-line E-Class sedan is the AMG E 63 S which really takes this car into a very different strata. Powered by the iconic handcrafted 603 hp, AMG 4.0 liter, V8 biturbo engine, this AMG sedan gets fast really fast. With a base MSRP of $107,500, the AMG E 63 S is a supercar masquerading as a family sedan.

If you’re shopping for a new luxury sedan that’s a pleasure to drive and is designed to impress, any level of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan will fit the bill.

18

MAY / JUNE 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

BUSINESS BRIEFS

KnILE Center Expanding to New Location

New three-acre campus will feature flexible indoor facilities and outdoor learning opportunities.

Main school house on KnILE Center’s new campus at 902 Richmond Parkway in the heart of historic Richmond.

Founder and Head of School Betsy de Vega of the KnILE Center – a boutique private school and tutoring and youth wellness center serving students in grades one through 12 – recently announced that the school is relocating its campus to a property in the heart of historic Richmond.

Situated near the old campus, the new campus will be located at 902 Richmond Parkway on an historic property that once belonged to Jane Long, named the “Mother of Texas” by Sam Houston to honor her heroic support of troops during the Texas Revolution.

“We are really excited about the opportunities this move opens up for us,” said de Vega. “The historic significance of this property is auspicious, and the amazing outdoor spaces are inspiring.

We knew it was the right location the moment we saw it.”

The colonial-era home on the property will house the main school rooms with offices on the second floor. High school students will have their own space on the property. Three acres of outdoor

space provide plenty of room for gardens, nature walks and outdoor classes, as well as opportunities for future camps and an amphitheater.

“Anxiety is currently the leading mental health issue in the country. It has only been accelerated by COVID, and our students are experiencing that, too,” added de Vega. “Our mission is to build thriving, productive young human beings. By cultivating resilient minds, bodies and hearts, we equip our students for success in both academics and life.

“This new location will serve as a sanctuary where students feel safe and at home. This environment will be the ideal setting for students to discover and grow into their best selves.”

For more information, please visit www.knilecenter.com.

Submit newsworthy items to Patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Ornamental Iron • Wood • Chain Link

281.238.0735 www.Apache-Fence.com

MAY / JUNE 2022 l

19

OUT & ABOUT

Guests joined Co-Chairs Gena Horak and Patti Parish-Kaminski at “Reading Between the Wine’s Party with a Purpose” at Fernando’s to support The Literacy Council of Fort Bend County by donating gift cards as admittance to the party, which featured lite bites and cocktails.

IN THE HEART

OF BRAZOS

Patti Parish-Kaminski and Carole Brown.

Kay Garrett and Sandy Olive.

Nicola Johnson and Adrienne Barker.

Cee Cee Parker, Doug Goff and Terri Stuart.

20

Arlene and Len Rolsen.

Spencer and Stacy Bynes.

Leticia Lowe, Gena Horak and Angie Pfeiffer.

MAY / JUNE 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Several supporters turned out to celebrate the grand opening of the Texana Cafe located in Fulshear. The Texana Cafe is a retail-training center created by Texana with the goal to make and serve exceptional food while supporting meaningful employment for neurodiverse individuals.

Lynn Shimek, Cee Cee Parker and Kay Garrett.

Justin Gustafson and Tricia Turner.

The Texana Cafe Team at the grand opening.

Kevin Barker and Bill Rickert.

Texana CEO George Patterson and Fulshear Mayor Aaron Groff.

Tommy Kuykendall, Mary Rose Zdunkewicz and George Patterson.

Andrew Van Chau and Carrie Roehling.

Linda Harnist, Sheree Prather, Kate Johnson-Patagoc, Beth Duncan and Sue Fagan.

MAY / JUNE 2022 l

21

OUT &

The Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) is pleased to announce the new 2022 Sugar Plum Market Co-Chairs. Due to the overwhelming success of the additional shopping day in 2021, the Sugar Plum Market will offer three full days from November 3rd - 5th. A special Preview Night celebration will be held in the evening of November 2nd. The Market features over 100 vendors at the Stafford Center Performing Arts Theatre and Convention Center. Please contact sponsors@fbjsl.com and/or raffle@fbjsl.com to find out more information or visit www.sugarplummarket.com.

ABOUT IN THE HEART

2022 Sugar Plum Market Co-Chairs Chelsi Oestreich, Monica Hasty, Michelle Monterroso, Leah Henley, Cherie Lyne Bouterie and Ashley Stephens.

OF BRAZOS

Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship hosted a Derby Day Party with a Purpose silent auction with Derby Day hats for their Derby Day gala. All the hats were created and donated by the Fort Bend Junior League. All proceeds benefited Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship.

Noell Myska and Joanne Couch.

Donna Migura.

22

Heather Hernandez Sedillo and Alicen Swift.

Ray Aguilar, Dustin Vacek and Kevin Barker.

MAY / JUNE 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Michelle Vargas.

Noell Myska.

OakBend Medical Center kicked off their Restaurant Weeks with a Brews and Cue event hosted at the Swinging Door. Delicious pairings of local craft beers were provided by a local brewery along with live music.

It was a true Texas evening!

May Tape and Norma Petrosewicz.

Kay and Jim Garrett.

Vicky Tonn, Larry and Christy Willman and Joe Fruendenberger.

Niketa Kurjee and Sydney Davis.

Lana Nguyen, Heather Ekre and Meagan Tape.

The Historic Richmond Association hosted its 5th annual Art Walk and Motor Madness along with Cisco Tucker’s Bark in the Park in historic downtown Richmond.

There were vendors, food trucks, an art walk, vintage cars for viewing, a chalk art area and the ever-popular pet parade.

Lamar Consolidated ISD Art Director Thomas Avenger painting at the Masonic Lodge.

Petunia with owner Alexandria Torres and grandmother Paula Gibson with Maximus.

Nan with owner Donna Kay Tucker and Commissioner Barry Beard.

MAY / JUNE 2022 l

23

NEWSWORTHY

Central Fort Bend Chamber Recruits for the Leadership Fort Bend Class of 2023

Leadership Fort Bend Class of 2022 at the Opening Retreat.

The Central Fort Bend Chamber (CFBC) is recruiting for its next class of Leadership Fort Bend. The Class of 2023, made up of 40 business and community leaders, will be the Chamber’s 36th class and will run from August 2022 through May 2023.

The Leadership Fort Bend program was organized in 1986 under the direction of the Central Fort Bend Chamber and has a long history of developing leaders in Fort Bend County.

“Our Leadership Fort Bend Program is one of the Chamber’s move valuable assets,” stated Kristin Weiss, IOM, Central Fort Bend Chamber President and CEO and Leadership Fort Bend Class of 2009 graduate. “Bringing together 40 individuals with different backgrounds and work experiences enhances our program, grows our network and reach and builds strong and lasting relationships. If you are looking at leadership roles in the community or with the Chamber, the Leadership Fort Bend program is a great investment for your future. Eighty-five percent of our Board and 100% of our Program of Work Chairs are made of Leadership Fort Bend graduates.”

Program participants will grow in awareness and consideration of the challenges and issues facing our community, Fort Bend County and the State of Texas by providing an understanding of how our community functions and fosters healthy dialogue and exchange among participants and county leaders. The program offers skills training, education and new approaches to the study of regional issues. In turn, our participants come out of the program with the desire and background needed to become leaders in Fort Bend County.

Participants will also develop valuable contacts and

24

communication networks within the community. Most importantly, Leadership Fort Bend builds confidence and motivation to become actively involved in promoting positive change for Fort Bend County.

“Leadership Fort Bend helped me to learn more about our past leaders and build a strong bond with current and future leaders of the Fort Bend community,” said Kyle Atchison, Frost Bank, CFBC Board Member and Leadership Fort Bend, Class of 2020 graduate. “I didn’t grow up in the area, so Leadership Fort Bend was a must for me to understand the history of Fort Bend inside and out in order to fully invest myself in this spectacular community. My only regret was waiting so long to apply for the program. If you are working or own a business in or around Fort Bend County, this program is the best investment you can make to help entrench yourself in the community. And, as a bonus, you will walk away with new lifelong friends.”

Leadership Fort Bend is a nine-month program – August thru May – with a two-day Opening Retreat, a two-day to Austin to visit with state Senators and Representatives and a two-day Ending Retreat in Galveston.

For more information on the Leadership Fort Bend Program, visit https://www.cfbca.org/programofwork/.

Go to www.cfbca.org/leadership-fort-bend/ to complete an application.

For more information on the Central Fort Bend Chamber upcoming events, membership information or to view the calendar, visit www.cfbca.org or call the office at 281-3425464.

MAY / JUNE 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center May 2022 Happenings

NEWSWORTHY

Our Voice WonderWeek • May 3 to 7 For over 50 years, the Coretta Scott King Book Awards have recognized the outstanding works of African American authors and illustrators who celebrate African American life and culture.

The award is named for Coretta Scott King, wife and partner of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Her focus on peace, love and social change made her one of the most prominent African American and women leaders of our time. Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center celebrates this prestigious award with a week-long event filled with creative activities, including community action posters and mixed media collages about life’s important moments.

17th Annual Hats, Gloves and Boutonnières – Fort Bend Brunch • May 6 Get ready to don your stylish hats and gloves again! Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center Council is hosting the 17th annual Hats, Gloves and Boutonnières Fort Bend Brunch! This event benefits Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center and will be held from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm, Friday, May 6th at the palatial Sweetwater home of Manmeet and Paul Likhari. Stylish hats encouraged. Register here: https://www.childrensdiscoveryfb. org/may-6-:-hats,-gloves-and-boutonnieres-fort-bend-brunch.

Mr. Leo Puppet Show • May 21 Sponsored by Phillips 66 Here comes the fun! Watch seasoned puppeteer Mr. Leo put on a crowd-pleasing performance created for toddlers.

Children are sure to be delighted as they dance and laugh to this interactive show.

Oh, Bluey! • May 7 Get Ready, Get Set! WonderWeek • May 24 to 28

Meet everyone’s favorite blue heeler pup, Bluey! This adventurous canine from the Land Down Under will be at Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center for one day only, so don’t miss your chance to snap a photo with her and have some tail waggin’ fun!

The race to summer is on! Countdown to summer with new, colorful activities to celebrate the sunniest season of all including designing a fun summer vibes outfit, making wind fans designed to look like fruits and more!

Spring Things WonderWeek • May 10 to 14

Fun Vibes Only WonderWeek • May 31 to June 4

Spring is in full swing! It’s time to celebrate green grass, blooming flowers and light rain! Make water cycle bracelets, learn about electrifying science, and celebrate spring by designing 3-D butterflies.

The sun is out, and summer is here! Bask in our fun vibes with a cheery week which celebrates summer fun, including making scenic postcards, designing flower leis and crowns and more!

Story Time with Peter Pan • May 14

About Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center

Sponsored by Caldwell & Steinbring Dentistry for Children Peter Pan is flying to Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center for a one-of-a-kind story time experience. Let your creativity take you on an imaginative journey to Neverland. Peter will be meeting and greeting, so don’t miss this fun event!

Ranked as one of the “Top 10 Things to Do in Sugar Land” on TripAdvisor, Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center is a Playground for Your Mind™. It is dedicated to transforming communities through innovative, child-centered learning with a vision to spark a passion for lifelong learning in all children. Located at 198 Kempner St., Sugar Land, TX 77498 in the Historic Imperial Market, the Discovery Center offers a multitude of innovative exhibits and bilingual learning programs for kids ages birth to 12 years. The Discovery Center operates as a 501(c) (3) under the direction of a Board of Directors. For more information, please visit www.childrensdiscoveryfb.org or call (832) 742-2800. Can your mind come out to play?™

Plastic Power WonderWeek • May 17 to 21 Plastic - it’s all around us! But did you know it’s recyclable?

That means it can be repurposed into different objects, including creative works of art! Join us for an environmentally friendly week and find out how much fun upcycling can be.

MAY / JUNE 2022 l

25

MEDICAL FOCUS

Team Up with Your Doctor for Better Health at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital When it comes to your health, your primary care doctor is your quarterback.

They have a big-picture view and understanding of your overall health, and they can help you make the right moves to stay healthy.

“A strong relationship with your primary care doctor is key for your health,” said Harika Medi, M.D., internal medicine physician with Houston Methodist Primary Care Group. Building a relationship and partnership with your primary care doctor can help you tackle health problems and stay healthy through the ups and downs of life.

It’s A Team Effort Here are some ways to make the most of your health visits and build a winning relationship with your doctor.

Find a primary care doctor. Look for a doctor who speaks your preferred language and offers convenient appointments in a location near you. Above all, you should choose a doctor you trust who listens and makes you feel comfortable.

Schedule an annual exam. It’s important to schedule an annual checkup even when you feel healthy. Annual checkups make it possible to prevent and detect problems early. “Your doctor may review your plan for managing chronic conditions and recommend screening tests to help you stay healthy,” Medi said.

Identify communication barriers.

Resources are available if you or a loved one struggles with hearing, understanding or remembering what is said in your health visits. Bringing a loved one along to your appointment may help you better understand the information shared by your doctor while providing emotional

26

Harika Medi, M.D., internal medicine physician.

support, if needed. Contact the doctor’s office to let them know if you need help with communication or would like to have a family member or friend join you for your appointment.

Share your health history. Managing your health is easier when you build a relationship with a primary care doctor who knows you and your health history. Your doctor may recommend health screening tests based on your age, personal or family health history, and other factors. “For example, if you have a family history of heart disease, stroke, diabetes or cancer, your doctor may emphasize ways to prevent disease and recommend screening tests to help detect disease early,” Medi said.

Be open and honest. There’s no reason to hold back information because you’re worried or embarrassed. Your primary care doctor is there to support

you in improving your health, not to pass judgment on your decisions. The doctorpatient relationship is ironclad in its confidentiality, with many ethical, professional and legal standards that protect it.

Having open and honest conversations about your health helps the doctor better serve your health care needs.

Talk about mental health. Your primary care doctor can help with mental health concerns, including screening and treatment for depression and anxiety. Your doctor can also connect you with referrals to therapy, counseling or specialized care.

Ask about vaccines. Your primary care doctor can be a great resource to help you understand which vaccines are recommended for you and when to get them. It’s important to have these conversations with your doctor so you can make informed decisions based on the latest medical guidance.

Set goals for your health. If you want to lose weight, quit smoking or make other healthy changes, your doctor can help you get started. Your chances of success improve when you have medical support for making big changes to your health.

Prioritize your health by making an appointment with a primary care doctor. Convenient appointments are available at a location near you throughout Fort Bend County, including Sugar Land, Sweetwater, Brooks Street, Riverstone, Sienna, Aliana and Rosenberg.

Schedule an appointment with a doctor at Houston Methodist Primary Care Group by visiting houstonmethodist.org/ pcg/southwest or calling 281.930.6639.

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

MAY / JUNE 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

What ’s new for

(Click on all titles to subscribe for FREE)

Coming directly to your inbox – the people, places and happenings of your community – now easier to access than ever before!

Sign up to receive your community news

! e e r f y l e t absolu