November/December 2020 - Absolutely Brazos Magazine

NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER 2020

Serving Richmond, Rosenberg, Fulshear & Needville

DINE SIP SHOP LOCAL

When Baby Comes Early

Historic Downtowns

Readers’ Choice Nearly

Votes

As Seen In

Ronaventure: A Frugal Foray

The Corona Chronicles A Digital Mini-Magazine Covering the People, Places and Happenings of Fort Bend

By Patti Parish-Kaminski, Publisher COVID has clipped all of our proverbial wings when it comes to travel. So, you can imagine how excited I was when Tim Kaminski suggested we take a trip for his birthday!

Of course, traveling is different now, so he put some stringent parameters in place. And yes, I’m unaccustomed to stringent parameters – unless I make them.

Nevertheless, I was excited.

How bad could traveling really Drinking wine from a moustached Dixie cup – night one of my be right now? We discussed Ronaventure. taking all of the necessary precautions and being smart about our excursion. And I was prepared with Lysol spray, hand sanitizer, wipes – you name it. I had ample supplies to clean an entire plane if necessary.

First rattle out of the box, Mr. Kaminski brought up the luggage issue. We were flying to Denver, so naturally I needed fall clothing – and accessories. Now I’m an accessory girl. I seriously could travel with a steamer trunk solely for accessories.

But I took one for the team on this one and packed in two small bags that I – really Mr. Kaminski – could easily carry on the plane without checking luggage. It took military precision, but I did it, and I did it with a smile.

Of course, one of my strategically packed bags got flagged during the security screening. It was the miniature can of Lysol spray that nailed me. When the officer removed it from my bag, I queried, very loudly, “So if get sick because I cannot properly sanitize my airplane seat, you are going to cover my medical bills and lost wages, right Officer Ramirez?” Well, you know what happened next. He very quickly gave the aerosol canister right back to me.

We flew on points, which meant Southwest Airlines and the frantic 24-hour pre-check in and cattle car boarding system.

We had to wear a mask during the plane ride, but that’s just safe – and smart – so no issue there. And there was no alcohol service on the plane, but I could live with that. In case you’re wondering, no, you cannot bring your own glass of wine on board either. We won’t discuss the particulars of how I learned that.

But again, it was a trip, and my attitude was stellar. Now

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Mr. Kaminski had discussed with me previously that we were doing this little jaunt on a “budget.” When we checked into our hotel in Denver, the word reared its ugly head, but it wasn’t necessarily a bad hotel; it was simply not what we – mostly me – were accustomed to. Again, I persevered with a smile and drank my wine out of the complimentary paper cup that sported a moustache. It was kind of like camping I suppose.

The next day we traveled to Pagosa Springs, and the fall scenery was gorgeous. I was in high spirits still sporting an amazing attitude because I only had to stay one night in the subpar accommodations. I took my wine and my complimentary moustached paper cup as a precaution, but I was certain the next leg of our “trip on a budget” would be better.

We had an amazing day, and when it came time to check into our next home away from home, this budget thing got real.

Upon check-in we were provided with a complimentary cocktail valued at $4 from the hotel bar. Y’all know I love a good gift with purchase, so I was still optimistic. The smoke was oppressive as we headed to our room, and to be consistent, the room was equally as pungent and filthy. At this point on our frugal foray, I was done. I had lasted nearly 48 hours.

I quickly took charge – admittedly with a less than stellar attitude – and promptly relocated us to the Wyndham.

Yes, things were clearly looking up; I had a credit card.

We had a wonderful birthday weekend and even did a little Happy Birthday Tim! Sporting my new Beth Dutton shopping. I bought shirt in the beautiful fall Colorado foliage. the cutest t-shirt. It said, “Sorta Sweet, Sorta Beth Dutton.” I’m a huge Yellowstone fan, and yes, I love Beth. I may or may not have channeled her as I promptly got us out of the previous hotel reservation with a full refund and into the Wyndham at a last minute discount rate, but a girl’s gotta do what a girl’s gotta do when things get tough.

I donned my new shirt the last day we were there and proudly modeled for Mr. Kaminski. His reply? “Definitely spot on with the Beth Dutton part. Not so sure on the sorta sweet part though.” Lord I’ll miss that man.

Free Subscription Emailed To Your Mailbox Weekly www.FortBendFocus.com

{Features}

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 VOLUME 8 | NUMBER 5

Ronaventure: A Frugal Foray

Patti Parish-Kaminski Publisher Page 1

Check out the 2020 winners

1

25 ’TIS THE SEASON

Did You Gain The Quarantine 15?

Historic {Downtowns }

6 WHEN BABY COMES EARLY: HOUSTON METHODIST CHILDBIRTH CENTER AT SUGAR LAND OFFERS OUTSTANDING CARE FOR HIGH-RISK PREGNANCIES AND PREMATURE BABIES

For moms-to-be in Fort Bend,

Houston Methodist Childbirth

Center at Sugar Land provides

the best possible care for any

birth, including those

considered high risk.

1 THE CORONA CHRONICLES

11 5TH ANNUAL READERS’

CHOICE ABSOLUTELY!

THE BEST OF BRAZOS’

FAVORITES

{COVER STORY}

CONTRIBUTORS

2 ROSENBERG 9 RICHMOND

{Newsworthy}

9 FOSTER ANNOUNCES NATIONAL MERIT SEMIFINALIST Brian Wu

25

Travis Johnson DotFit and APEX Certified Nutrition Specialist Page 25

10 FORT BEND COUNTY FAIR

Jr Livestock Auction

{In Every Issue} 4 EXCLAMATION POINTS! 23 OUT & ABOUT

IN THE HEART OF BRAZOS

DINE • SIP • SHOP • LOCAL

Historic Downtown Rosenburg

BUILDINGS

Designs in Fine Jewelry, LLC

Historic Downtown Rosenberg’s PREMIER EXPERIENCE

Open Wednesday - Saturday Rosenberg’s Finest Wine Room

“Your Hometown Jeweler” VOGELSANG ANTIQUE EMPORIUM CAST THEATRICAL COMPANY OL’ RAILROAD CAFE BR VINO WINE ROOM

1909 AVENUE G • ROSENBERG, TX 77471 281.342.6804 www.VOGELSANGANTIQUES.COM

Boutique Wines Craft Beer Chris Dostal, Owner

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

Wine Club

1st Tuesday every month

1917 Avenue G, Historic Downtown Rosenberg 77471 www.BRvino.com

(281) 762-0900 Check Facebook for events!

Ornamental Iron • Wood • Chain Link

281.238.0735 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 l

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EXCLAMATION POINTS! Associate Publisher, KAY GARRETT

The Holidays of 2020!

The 2020 holidays are almost here. This year has definitely left us all wondering what the holidays will be like with social distancing, masks and limited events.

However, this year more than ever we should treasure the time we have with our families. ’Tis the season of family and loved ones putting them first on your list.

Try some of these fun ideas. Create a new family tradition, cook and eat together, volunteer as a family and get active together by going on evening walks around your neighborhood checking out the Christmas lights.

Carving out family time will allow you and your family a season with more calm and joy. Here’s to 2020!

In this special holiday issue, our cover story highlights Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Sugar Land. The hospital’s Childbirth Center and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) offers unparalleled roundthe-clock care close to home. With experienced, caring nurses and a wide range of specialists, the Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Sugar Land gives moms-to-be the peace of mind and confidence they need. Read more on 6 page.

One of our traditions at absolutely! focus media is revealing and congratulating our winners of our Readers’ Choice Favorites. Our online survey was a tremendous success again this year with thousands of Brazos readers taking time to vote for their favorites! from food to shopping to entertainment. Check out the winners on page 11.

Holiday time in our Brazos community in the past has been filled with so many events in our charming Historic Downtown districts. However, this holiday season will look a little different with virtual events or limited festivities. This year more than ever our local businesses need your support, so please dine, sip and shop local this holiday season!

During this holiday season, I want to thank all of our advertisers, readers and subscribers. Each and every one are the reason we are able to do what we do: bring you the people places and happenings in our community. We wish you all a very blessed Thanksgiving and a very Merry Christmas! We look forward to seeing and hearing from you in 2021!

Vol. 8 No.5 November/December 2020 281-690-4242 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 A RT D I R E C T O R Grace Belleza

Kay Danziger and Kay Garrett were the Auction Chairs for the OakBend Medical Center Patchwork of Life virtual gala event this year benefiting OakBend’s Surgical Center.

A big shoutout to all who donated to make the event a tremendous success!

S O C IA L M E D IA M A NA G E R Natalee Sembrick 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 CONTRIBUTOR Travis Johnson Patti Parish-Kaminski INQUIRIES 281-690-4242

olutely!

An abs

E D I T O R IA L S U B M I S S I O N S Patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Merry

Christmas to You!

Absolutely yours,

Kay Garrett kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

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WEB DESIGNER Joey Belleza

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242

ON THE COVER: Shaeequa Dasnadi MD Neonatal Program Director; Cristina Martin RN, MSN, RNC-OB Perinatal Director; Theresa Walters RN, BSN, RNC-NIC NICU Manager and Hanae Geneta RN, MS, RNC-NIC NICU charge nurse.

Subscription requests are free to West Fort Bend area addresses. Annual paid subscription of $25 required outside West Fort Bend area. absolutely! Brazos Magazine is published by absolutely! focus media, P. O. Box 1253, Richmond, Texas 77406. Copyright © 2020 by absolutely! focus media. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. absolutely! Brazos Magazine does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial, nor do the publishers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. absolutely! Brazos Magazine welcomes editorial submissions from its readers.

Achieve the

Ultimate Smile!

Crowns • Implants • Cosmetic • Reconstructive Dentistry • Board Certified Prosthodontist

Replacing missing teeth in one day!

before

after

Restore your smile with cosmetic dentistry!

before

after

We are now in network with your insurance.

281-313-1565

Stuart Rimes, DDS, MS 15958 City Walk, Ste. 230 Sugar Land, TX 77479

www.RimesDDS.com • e-mail: info@rimesdds.com

As ADA recognized specialists, Prosthodontists like Dr. Rimes 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 • Oral Cancer Reconstruction

Stuart Rimes, DDS, MS NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 l

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Members of the NICU care team.

Photo was taken in July 2019.

When Baby Comes Early

Baby Valor.

Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Sugar Land Offers Outstanding Care for High-Risk Pregnancies and Premature Babies

P

regnancy is supposed to be a wonderful time for moms-to-be. Planning for your baby’s arrival – and dreaming of the day your little bundle of joy is born – are the best parts of the experience.

But what happens if medical challenges interfere?

Sometimes, pregnancy can cause serious issues that threaten the health of both mom and baby, including hypertension (high blood pressure) and gestational diabetes. In some

COVER STORY

cases, labor must be induced early to protect mom – even if baby isn’t quite ready for life outside of the womb.

Fortunately for moms-to-be in Fort Bend County and surrounding areas, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is uniquely positioned to safely provide the best possible care for any birth, including those considered high risk.

The hospital’s Childbirth Center and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) offer unparalleled round-the-clock care – close to home. With experienced, caring nurses and a wide range of specialists, including obstetricians, maternal-fetal medicine specialists, anesthesiologists, neonatologists and pediatricians, the Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Sugar Land gives moms-to-be the peace of mind and confidence they need.

The Importance of a NICU In years past, women with early deliveries would have their newborn transferred to the Texas Medical Center while they recovered at Houston Methodist Sugar Land, primarily due to concerns for the baby. Now Houston Methodist Sugar Land’s NICU is capable of providing complex, round-theclock care for infants born at less than 32 weeks gestational.

“Houston Methodist Sugar Land’s NICU is on the journey to become a Level III NICU, which will be a tremendous benefit for moms-to-be in Fort Bend, but especially critical for those with high-risk pregnancies,” said board-certified neonatologist Shaeequa Dasnadi, M.D., medical director of the Houston Methodist Sugar Land NICU. “Many times, those risks lead to labor being induced early to protect mom’s health, and that means the baby is premature. Being close to home removes a great deal of the stress, time and travel involved for parents, especially if the baby remains in the NICU for several weeks.”

A First Time Mom’s Experience Like most first-time moms, Houston Methodist Sugar Land employee Taylor Diaz didn’t expect to have any issues with her pregnancy. However, after a few months, her blood pressure began rising enough to cause concern that she came to the Obstetric Emergency Department, but she felt reassured because there were board-certified OBs. And then, as her due date grew closer, it became a critical health issue.

High blood pressure is a common condition during pregnancy. According to the Centers for Disease Control and

What Makes the Childbirth Center at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Special?

Our unique amenities include: • Tranquil, private and family-centered labor and delivery suites.

• Dedicated obstetrical (OB) emergency rooms for rapid maternal assessment.

• 24/7 access to on-site board-certified OB-GYNs with specialized training in emergency care for moms and babies.

• NICU with 24/7 on-site neonatology providers to monitor high-risk and premature babies.

• Postpartum care, education and breastfeeding support.

See the difference for yourself!

Visit houstonmethodist.org/childbirth-sl to take a virtual tour!

under control so she could go home, but it spiked again the next day.

At that point, her doctor, Lauren Swords, M..D., OB-GYN at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, told her that she would need to be induced as soon as possible – for her safety as well as her baby’s.

“I was really upset when I found out that I needed to be induced,” recalled Diaz. “I had hoped to get to at least 37 weeks. I just wasn’t mentally ready to deliver so soon.”

Dr. Lauren Swords Maternal Medical Director

You and Your Baby are Safe!

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital has taken significant steps to ensure that moms and babies are safe from COVID-19 throughout their stay, including:

The Diaz family.

Photo courtesy of SEEM photography.

Prevention, approximately one in every 12 pregnant women will experience serious hypertension. It is one of the leading causes of preterm delivery.

When Diaz was 35 weeks pregnant, her blood pressure was high enough for her to be admitted to Houston Methodist Sugar Land. Medication helped get her blood pressure

• Mandatory masking and social-distancing guidelines for all physicians, employees, visitors and patients.

• Implementing a single visitor rule.

• Screening all patients and visitors upon arrival with temperature checks and exposure questionnaires.

• Following the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control for frequent testing of employees.

• Our staff and physicians wear recommended personal protective equipment while providing patient care.

• Performing extensive sanitation processes to disinfect all equipment and surfaces throughout each day.

Meet our New OB-GYNs! Making your childbirth experience the best it can be requires proper care and attention. The doctors at Houston Methodist Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates at Sugar Land provide personalized, compassionate guidance and support – from that exciting first visit through the special day of delivery! To schedule an appointment with Dr. Rosalyn Miller or Dr. Elizabeth Mosier, visit houstonmethodist.org/obgyn or call 281.882.3130.

Dr. Rosalyn Miller

Dr. Elizabeth Mosier

Because she didn’t realize she would be induced that day, her husband David had not accompanied her to the doctor.

She was admitted to the hospital before he could arrive, and she entered the Childbirth Center alone. But that didn’t last long.

“The nurses just embraced me from the first minute and did everything they could to help me feel better,” Diaz said.

“They were absolutely amazing. I shed a lot of tears because I was so worried, but they were right by my side the whole time, comforting me.”

Complicated by COVID-19 Diaz was induced on Thursday, April 9th at 6 pm, and after nearly 24 hours of labor, baby Valor was born on April 10th at 4:09 pm. Even though she was born about five weeks early, Valor was healthy enough to go home as soon as Diaz’ hypertension was under control.

And while Diaz was happy that she and Valor were safe, her experience wasn’t exactly what she expected due to safety precautions put in place to protect patients from COVID-19.

“It was difficult because I had always thought my mom would be with me when I gave birth, but it just wasn’t possible due to the limit of one visitor,” she said. “And after Valor was born, David and I still couldn’t have visitors to our room. The nurses said that moms were getting more rest without visitors popping in, and they were better able to bond because their babies weren’t being passed around for everyone to hold. They helped me to see things from a different perspective.”

Plus, Diaz said, staff members were extremely diligent in following safety protocols. “I always felt safe,” she said.

“Everyone was always wearing the proper protective equipment.”

On Easter Sunday, Diaz and Valor were discharged. But at her first visit to the pediatrician two days later, Valor was diagnosed with jaundice. It was back to the hospital – this time, for Valor to be admitted to the NICU.

Dr. Shaeequa Dasnadi, NICU Medical Director.

“Having a quality NICU so close to home is a real blessing,” said Lauren Swords, M.D., OB-GYN at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “When your newborn is in the hospital, you are under so much stress. I can’t imagine having to drive to the Texas Medical Center every day to see your baby.”

Happy and Healthy Fortunately, Valor’s stay in the NICU was a short one.

Today – despite the rocky beginning to her life – she is healthy, happy and growing quickly.

“I am so grateful to everyone in our Childbirth Center and NICU for the care we received and the compassion we were shown during such a challenging time,” said Diaz. “I saw first-hand how supportive nurses and physicians make the difference, and it makes me proud to say I’m an employee.”

Learn More The Childbirth Center at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital offers both in-person and online childbirth education classes, along with virtual and in-person tours, to help you feel more comfortable with your experience. To learn more or to schedule a class, call 281.205.4514. To view the virtual tour, visit houstonmethodist.org/childbirth-sl.

NEWSWORTHY

Foster Announces National Merit Semifinalist Brian Wu

DINE • SIP • SHOP • LOCAL

Historic Downtown Richmond

BRANDS CARRIED

McKenna Quinn William & Son Brackish Dubarry Habsburg Purdey Brian Wu.

Foster High School announced that senior Brian Wu was named a 2021 National Merit Semifinalist. He scored in the top 1% of the 1.5 million high school juniors across the United States who took the Preliminary SAT last October.

The next step of this highly competitive program is to become a finalist. Winners will be announced next April and will receive scholarships starting at $2500.

Wu will be evaluated on SAT scores, academic transcript (difficulty level, depth and breadth of subjects studied, as well as grades earned), extracurricular and community involvement, leadership positions and a 1500 word essay. Additionally, students must be enrolled in their last year of high school and plan to enroll in full-time college next fall.

At Foster, Wu played tennis and cofounded ping-pong club. He is a member of Asian-American Student Association, French Club president and Workforce in Training. This year he will serve as President of National Honor Society and Vice President of Student Council.

He completed 160+ hours required for Service Cord last summer volunteering at Los Alamos National Lab’s Science Museum, Pajarito Environmental Education Center, Lunches of Love and taught vacation bible school at St. John’s and Faith United Methodist Church.

Senior year, Wu is taking a full course load. By graduation, he will complete 16 AP courses, and he will also earn French, Social Studies and STEM-Mathematics endorsements.

281-342-3819 202 Morton Street www.josephsvintageguns.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 l

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Fort Bend County Fair Jr Livestock Auction Sold! The Jr Livestock Auction hosted by the 2020 Fort Bend County Fair Association generated $378,100 for F.F.A. and 4-H livestock exhibitors. While the

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auction total is not final, the reality of being able to exhibit animals and have an auction during a pandemic took tumultuous efforts by the exhibitors, the fair board of directors, parents, volunteers, staff and the buyers. Compression Components of Texas, Fort Bend Buyers Group, and Fort Bend County Commissioner Vincent Morales paddled their way to be the three top buyers at the 2020 auction.

In August, the board of directors announced the Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo was officially canceled due to COVID -19 except for the Livestock Show. The livestock auction, just as the 12 livestock shows prior, had to be approved by Fort Bend County elected and health officials. The auction buyers are typically treated to a reception with a meal, social time and a picture with the exhibitor and livestock project they purchase. Due to COVID-19, none of the buyers’ incentives were applicable. All buyers were there with one mission: to support the youth of Fort Bend County.

One hundred eighty-eight lots were purchased at the auction, either by buyers in person or online.

The Commercial Heifer Auction raised over $166,550. The Freezer Sale’s totals are still being tallied, but early calculations show over $59,000 being generated.

NEWSWORTHY

Megan Dale of Clements High School F.F.A. sold her Market Goat to Gringo’s owner Heather Carroll.

A bit of history was made, as the Jr. Livestock Auction was held in the O.D. Tucker Rodeo arena for the first time in the Fair’s history. Commissioner Vincent Morales, Millis Group, Inc, Compression Components of Texas, 4B Ranch, Fort Bend County Commissioner Andy Meyers and Fort Bend Charities, S.O.L.E. Sister Buyers Group, Brown & Gay Engineers, Huegele Holdings, Michael & Shannon Triplett, Michael & Debora Thelen, Pediatric Dentists of Katy, Davis Brothers Construction, Smokin Bayou Boys, Arenosa Development, Morales Ranch and State Senator Phil Stephenson all committed to purchasing a Grand or Reserve Champion lot.

Visit FortBendCountyFair.com for more information on the Fort Bend County Fair.

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.absolutelybrazos.com

5 thAnnual

Favorite BBQ: Witt Pit BBQ 2516 1st Street Rosenberg, TX 77471

FOOD

Favorite Fast Food Whataburger 13 Locations in Fort Bend

2020 This fall, we invited readers to our website to take an online survey to tell us who their favorites are in Brazos in nine different categories:

• FOOD • HEALTHCARE • SHOPPING • AUTO • ENTERTAINMENT • HOME IMPROVEMENT • PROFESSIONAL SERVICES • PETS • SCHOOLS

Favorite Wine Bar: Unwine’d Wine and Cheese Lounge 310 Morton Street Richmond, TX 77469 Favorite Specialty Restaurant: Ninja Japanese Cuisine 1800 Farm to Market 359 Richmond, TX 77406 Favorite Delivery Door Dash doordash.com Favorite Frozen Treats: Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers 20450 Southwest Freeway Richmond, TX 77469

Local foodies spoke up loud and clear voting for their favorite eateries – yum!

Favorite Bakery: Hummingbird Bakery 503 Farm to Market 359, #180 Richmond, TX 77406 Favorite Healthy Eatery: Trough Juice Bar 107 S. 3rd Street Richmond, TX 77469 Favorite Grab & Go HEB Meal Simple 8 Locations in Fort Bend

And boy, did they come through!

With 3,000 votes, readers voiced their opinions on their favorites.

Take a look and see who won this year’s absolutely! The Best Readers’ Choice of Brazos’ Favorites!

Voting for the 2020 absolutely! The Best of Brazos Readers’ Choice Awards was conducted online at absolutelyBrazos.com from August 1 to September 30, 2020.

The results were collected and tabulated using crowdsignal.com.

In the event of a tie, all winners are listed.

Favorite Brunch & Caterer: Sandy McGee’s Restaurant & Catering 314 Morton Street Richmond, TX 77469 Favorite Steakhouse: Anthonie’s Market Grill 9108 Farm to Market 1489 Fulshear, TX 77441 Favorite Burger: Ol’ Railroad Café 819 2nd Street Rosenberg, TX 77471

Due to the current restrictions please call for hours of operation 310 Morton Street l 281-253-4431 (rear down the alley) www.oneunwined.com unwine’d wine and cheese lounge NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 l

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Our Readers Voted for The Best of Brazos

1410 E. Hwy 90 @ FM 359 • Richmond 281.238.4800 8502 FM 359 Rd S • Fulshear 281.346.8379 Open Monday - Saturday Both locations

Voted Favorite Seafood & Happy Hour

Thank you to our loyal friends and customers for your continued support!

- Jimmy Cantu

Full Service Catering & Private Room at Fulshear Location Favorite Italian Restaurant, Pizza & Martini: Lomonte’s Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria 815 Plantation Drive, #180 Richmond, TX 77406 Favorite Food Truck: The Sauer Kraut Food Truck thesauerkrautfoodtruck.com Favorite Pub: Dry Creek Social Club 3333 Farm to Market 359 Richmond, TX 77406

202 Morton Street josephscoffeeshop.com

Favorite Coffee Bar: Joseph’s Coffee Shop 202 Morton Street Richmond, TX 77469 Favorite Seafood & Happy Hour: Pier 36 Seafood & Oyster Bar 1410 E Highway 90 Alt, #200 Richmond, TX 77406 Favorite Margarita & Mexican Food: Gringo’s Mexican Kitchen 24108 Southwest Freeway Rosenberg, TX 77471

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Thank you to our customers for all your support and love of coffee!

ESPRESSO l LATTE & MORE

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.absolutelybrazos.com

Our Readers Voted for The Best of Brazos

CARE SERVICES HEALTH

When it comes to healthcare, check out these Brazos’ favorites from doctors to dentists.

Favorite Hospital: Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital 16655 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77479 Favorite Doctor: Salman S. Aly, MD 6903 Brisbane Court, Suite 100 Sugar Land, TX 77479 Favorite Dentist: TIE Tamara S. Osina, DDS 1320 Thompson Road Richmond, TX 77469 Sun: 4 – 9 pm | Mon – Thurs: 5 – 9:30 pm | Fri & Sat: 5 – 10:30 pm

Full Bar with Live Music • Dine-In Patio Dining • Pick-Up • We Cater • We Deliver

AND Larry Caldwell, DDS 15200 Southwest Freeway, Suite 320 Sugar Land, TX 77478 Favorite Orthodontist: Garrett & Boyd Orthodontics 24004 Southwest Freeway, Suite 502 Rosenberg, TX 77471

Favorite Dermatologist: Rosenberg Dermatology 5219 Reading Road Rosenberg, TX 77471 Favorite Plastic Surgeon: Sugar Land Face & Body 16926 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77479 Favorite Wellness Center: Dr. Shel Wellness & Aesthetic Center 1437 Highway 6 Suite 100 Sugar Land, TX 77478 Favorite Spa Massage Heights 1875 Hwy 6 Suite 500 Whole Foods Shopping Center Sugar Land, TX 77478 Favorite Eye Care: Richmond Eye Experts 7770 W Grand Parkway South, B-1 Richmond, TX 77406

Check Out Our Menu Online

www.lomontesrestaurant.com 815 Plantation Drive #180 Richmond, TX 77406 281-232-8290 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 l

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Our Readers Voted for The Best of Brazos

SHOPPING

Thank you for voting for us!

’Tis the season to shop ’til you drop!

Check out these favorite shopping spots.

Favorite Shoe Store: Famous Footwear 2 Locations in Fort Bend Favorite Spirits Store: 1st Choice Liquor of Richmond 1800 Farm to Market 359 Richmond, TX 77406 Favorite Antiques Shop: Once Again – Antiques, Collectibles, Fine Gifts 801 3rd Street Rosenberg, TX 77471 Favorite Grocery Store: H-E-B Texas Grocery 8 Locations in Fort Bend

Favorite Auto Repair: Expert Collision Center 3501 BF Terry Boulevard, Building D Rosenberg, TX 77471 Favorite Auto Dealer: Legacy Ford 27225 Southwest Freeway Rosenberg, TX 77471

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Favorite Gift Shop: TIE Treasure Hunters Gallery 304 Morton Street Richmond, TX 77469 AND Taking A Chance Boutique & Things pinterest.com/ takingachanceboutique Favorite Health Food Market: Pavlock Farms 210 Huntington Road Rosenberg, TX 77471

“A family owned business with great selections of Liquor, Beer, Fine Wines and Spirits”

1800 FM 359 • Richmond, TX 77406 • 281.232.9555 Bring this coupon in for

5% Off your total purchase of liquor.

10% Off your total purchase of wine.

Minimum purchase of $20 to receive discount Expires 12/30/2020

Favorite Bargain Shopping: Pennywise Resale Store 501 E Hwy 90 Alt Richmond, TX 77406

ER AUTO S VICES

Favorite Jewelry Store: Chris Dostal’s Designs in Fine Jewelry 940 3rd Street Rosenberg, TX 77471

Favorite Auto Services: TIE Richmond Tire & Automotive 1041 Farm to Market 359 Richmond, TX 77406 AND

When it comes to auto services, car enthusiasts aren’t shy about voting for their favorites.

Integrity Tire & Auto 921 E Hwy 90 Alt Richmond, TX 77406

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.absolutelybrazos.com

Our Readers Voted for The Best of Brazos

We repair all makes and models. We handle ALL insurance claims and guarantee with a written lifetime warranty. We also offer FREE ESTIMATES on site. Don’t feel the pressure of letting your insurance decide where you should get your vehicle repaired!

Check out our reviews on Google, Yelp and Facebook.

Winner 5th Year in a Row Come visit us at our newly renovated 12,000 sq. ft. facility:

3501 BF Terry Blvd. #D • Rosenberg, TX 77471

FOR ALL YOUR BODY SHOP NEEDS! Si hablamos español!

281-342-1809

EXPERTCOLLISIONTX.COM NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 l

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Our Readers Voted for The Best of Brazos

RTAINMENT ENTE

Favorite Live Entertainment: TIE Dry Creek Social Club 3333 Farm to Market 359 Richmond, TX 77406 AND

From theatres to outdoor recreation, readers got serious about voting for their favorite entertainment!

Scotty’s Saloon at OTP 114 Agnes Road Richmond, TX 77469

Favorite Kids’ Entertainment: Fort Bend Museum 500 Houston Street Richmond, TX 77469

Favorite Movie Theatre: Star Cinema Grill Richmond 22125 Farm to Market 1093 Richmond, TX 77407

Favorite Event Facility: Safari Texas Ranch 11627 FM 1464 Richmond, TX 77407

Favorite Man Cave: Lone Star Saloon 102 S 3rd Street Richmond, TX 77469

Favorite Sports Recreation: Brazos Bend State Park 21901 Farm to Market Rd 762 Needville, TX 77461 Favorite Fitness Gym: TIE T.W. Davis Family YMCA 911 Thompson Road Richmond, TX 77469 AND 9 Round Fitness 7 Locations in Fort Bend Favorite Country Club: Pecan Grove Plantation Country Club 3000 Plantation Drive Richmond, TX 77406

2020

It’s a Sweep!

Winner All 3 Magazines 2 Years Running

11627 FM 1464 l Richmond l 281.277.7888 l safaritexasballroom.com 16

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.absolutelybrazos.com

Our Readers Voted for The Best of Brazos

VOTED B& U P E T I FAVOR TAINMENT NTER E E V I L

BRB Pool Repair & Service LLC IMPROVEMENT HOME

From appliances and flooring to landscaping and design, check out readers’ go-to services for making their homes beautiful.

Favorite Pool Services: BRB Pool Repair and Service 1114 Inwood Drive #3 Richmond, TX 77469 Favorite Garden/Landscaping Company: Frank’s Nursery LLC 302 Farm to Market 359 Richmond, TX 77406

Professional & Personal Pool Service Family Owned and Operated Since 1978

Our services include: • Repair or Replacement of All Pool Equipment • FREE Delivery of Pool Supplies to Your Home • Maintenance & Weekly Cleaning Service • Leak Detection

www.brbpools.com

281-342-2426

Winner 5 Years In A Row! NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 l

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Our Readers Voted for The Best of Brazos Favorite Carpet/ Cleaning Service: The Cleaning Authority 226 Farm to Market 359 Richmond, TX 77406

Celebrating Our 20th Year

Ideal Carpet & Flooring is a locally owned and operated home improvement business with over 30 years of experience. Our design center carries a variety of styles and quality products that are unique and up to date with most current trends. In our warehouse, we carry setting materials and special buys on flooring. So, whether you want a professional installation, or you are a do-it-yourselfer, we have everything you need.

Favorite Plumber: Steinmetz Plumbing, Inc. 1646 Blaisdale, #1900 Richmond, TX 77406

Favorite Home Improvement and Flooring Store: Ideal Carpet & Flooring 1116 E Highway 90 A Richmond, TX 77406

1116 East Highway 90A • Richmond, TX 77406 281-762-9999 • idealcarpetandflooring.com

SSIONAL SERVICES PROFE

Whether it’s building a home or ordering flowers, leave it to these favorite professionals!

Favorite Financial Services: Jeffrey C. McClellan, CPA 830 3rd Street #205 Rosenberg, TX 77471 Favorite Custom Home Builder: Campbell Garrett Distinctive Homes 207 Morton Street Richmond, TX 77469

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AND

Favorite Heating/ Air Conditioning Services: Mandery Mechanical 2803 Decros Point Richmond, TX 77406

Financing Available

Favorite Developer: Johnson Development Corporation 13131 Dairy Ashford, Suite 210 Sugar Land, TX 77478 Favorite Real Estate Agent: TIE Kristin Lytle 1449 Highway 6, Suite 380 Sugar Land, TX 77478 AND Helen Van Slyke 427 Richmond Pl Drive Richmond, TX 77469 Favorite Real Estate Company: Van Slyke Real Estate, LLC 427 Richmond Pl Drive Richmond, TX 77469

Favorite Interior Designer: TIE Portilla Home & Garden 823 3rd Street Rosenberg, TX 77471

The Design Firm 13013 Southwest Freeway Stafford, TX 77477 Favorite Appliance Store: The Home Depot 5 Locations in Fort Bend

Favorite Salon and Spa: TIE Nuance Salon & Spa 2726 Mercantile Drive Rosenberg, TX 77471 AND Hollywood Nail & Spa 503 Farm to Market 359 #170 Richmond, TX 77406 Favorite Bank/Credit Union: TIE Wells Fargo 13 Locations in Fort Bend AND NewFirst National Bank 5 Locations in Fort Bend Favorite Florist: LC Floral Designs 204 Hwy 90A East Richmond, TX 77406

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.absolutelybrazos.com

... for voting us “Fort Bend’s Favorite Developer” once again!

2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 & 2020

Houston . Dallas/Fort Worth . Atlanta . Austin NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 l

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Our Readers Voted for The Best of Brazos

Kristin Lytle is

TEXAS PROUD! • Proud to be a Native Texan.

• Proud to be part of Fort Bend community for 35 years!

• Proud Texans & Astros Fan!

Client Comments:

Kristin Lytle, Broker Associate

• “Kristin has proven to be the best of the best” • “Kristin is Top Notch” • “Kristin went above and beyond to make sure we understood the home buying process” • “The best service and excellent communication throughout the process”

• HAR Platinum Agent Broker.

• Celebrating almost 20 years with more than $100 million in total listing and sales volume.

• 10 Year recipient of Five Star Professional Award • HAR Client Experience rating of 4.99/5.0.

See ratings & reviews at www.har.com/kristinlytle

T ha n k y ou f o r voting for me!

Email to KristinKLytle@gmail.com • 281-414-3059

Making Memories, Beautifully Place Your Holiday Orders Today!

Lucas Chavez Owner

Photo by Nesossi Studios.

281.342.8839 • lcfloraldesignsshoppe.com 204 Hwy 90A East • Richmond, TX 77406 20

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.absolutelybrazos.com

Our Readers Voted for The Best of Brazos Favorite Attorney/Law Firm: Duff Drozd Law 210 Main Street Richmond, TX 77469 Favorite Insurance Agency: TIE Kevin Patton Janice Vyoral State Farm Insurance State Farm Insurance 2204 Thompson Road 1900 Avenue G AND Richmond, TX 77469 Rosenberg, TX 77471

Thank you

PET SERVICES

for voting for us!

Best Attorney/Law Firm With the holidays around the corner, have your four-legged friends taken care of at Brazos’ finest!

210 Main Street | Richmond, Texas 77469 281.341.1718 | edufflaw.com

Favorite Pet Store: TIE PetSmart 5 Locations in Fort Bend AND Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming Richmond 9711 Mason Rd, Suite 100 Richmond, TX 77407 Favorite Grooming: Brazos Bend Animal Hospital 721 FM 359 Richmond, TX 77406 Favorite Veterinarian: Foster Creek Veterinary 4720 FM 359 Richmond, TX 77406 Favorite Day Care/ Boarding Services: Pecan Grove Kennel 4612 Richmond-Foster Road Richmond, TX 77406

providing loving expert care State-of-the-Art Medical & Surgical Equipment 2017

2017

2017

2019

Highly Skilled & Caring Professionals Early Disease Detection Program

to keep your pet healthy & happy

Hours: Monday to Friday: 7am - 7pm Saturday: 8am - 12pm Sunday: Closed

Complete Wellness Care Dentistry & Surgery 832-363-1227 Diagnostic & Medical Care 4720 FM 359 Richmond, TX 77406 Early Morning Drop-offs www.fostercreekvethospital.com NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 l

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Our Readers Voted for The Best of Brazos

SCHOOLS

Where Children Learn and Grow Our readers don’t trust their kids to just anyone.

From preschool to college, check out their favorite child care and educational facilities.

Favorite Day Care: Gingerbread Kids Academy 814 FM 2977 Richmond, TX 77469

Celebrating our 6 Year Anniversary

Favorite Private School: TIE Gingerbread Kids Academy 814 FM 2977 Richmond, TX 77469 AND Little Fishers Preschool 2011 Austin Parkway Sugar Land, TX 77479 Favorite College: University of Houston at Sugar Land 14000 University Boulevard Sugar Land, TX 77479 Favorite Technical School: Texas State Technical College 26706 IH-69 South Rosenberg, TX 77471

Attention Readers: Are there some categories for your favs that you would like to see in our 2021 absolutely! Brazos Favs Readers’ Choice Awards?

Let us know! E-mail your favorite categories to Grace@absolutelyfocusmedia.com.

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Infants, Toddlers, 3 & 4 yr. old Full Day Programs K–5 After School Programs Afternoon Pick-Up Arredondo, Carter, Thomas, Williams & Meyer Elementary

Early Childcare Assistance Accepted Gingerbread Kids Academy 814 FM 2977 Richmond, TX 77469 6:30 am – 6:30 pm

281-239-2110

www.gbkidsacademy.com twkaminski@sbcglobal.net

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.absolutelybrazos.com

OUT &

The Fort Bend History Association hosted the Sunset Music Series on the front lawn of the Moore House in Richmond. Mariachi Tradicion de Jalisco performed favorites for the socially distanced crowd.

ABOUT IN THE HEART

OF BRAZOS

Mariachi Tradicion de Jalisco’s youngest member Napolean thrilled the crowd with his vocals.

Mira Fereg and Cristian Welsh.

Fort Bend History Association Executive Director Claire Rogers and husband Ron Rogers enjoyed the al fresco event.

Emily Sherer, Jim and Nancy Wenzel and Justin Sherer.

Anastasia Estrada and Adelina Almaraz.

The class of 2021 Foster High School ProGrad hosted a Krispy Kreme fundraiser to welcome kids back to school. Seniors donned masks and gloves to safely deliver 189 dozen doughnuts before Lamar Consolidated ISD’s first day of school.

Forty-four boxes of doughnuts were donated to local first responders and educators.

Alexa Feliciano, Taylor Clark, Kiley Smink and Kelly Rivas.

Ethan Kappes and Brian Wu brought Kai O’Donnell 10 boxes to share with his neighbors.

Ira Goble and Caitrina Kearns delivered doughnuts to Richmond Fire Station #3.

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 l

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OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART

OF BRAZOS

Congratulations to the Fort Bend County 2020 Fair Queen Caroline O’ Driscoll.

Kristi Chapman, Ray Aguilar and Robert Wolter answered the phones to accept donations during the Patchwork of Life virtual telethon benefitting OakBend Medical Center.

The Foster High School Drumline celebrated quarantine birthdays with car parades and “Happy Birthday” played on pots and pans.

Zane Richter, Zamar Soto, Ben Wu, Henry Williams on Zoom, Jonathan and Christopher Moore and Marcel Tremblay.

Kay Danziger enjoyed a walk and the fall weather while strolling with her cats Boo and Coco.

Kierra Martinez and Jae’lynn Rojas attended Fort Bend Hope, a non-profit in downtown Rosenberg that mentors and helps with virtual learning.

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Mike and Jolyn Lee with Kyle and Diana Neely attended the first Aggie football game of the season with their new masks.

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.absolutelybrazos.com

, Tis the Season

Did You Gain The Quarantine 15?

How to get rid of those extra pounds and maintain before the holidays!

By Travis Johnson DotFit and APEX Certified Nutrition Specialist

S

ince the middle of March, many of us were under statewide restrictions, and we all started to be a little less active. Gyms were closed. Parks were closed.

Trails for running and biking were closed. So, if you gained weight during this quarantine, you were not alone. This weight gain has been recently been referred to as “The Quarantine 15.”

All of our habits changed quite a bit as we went from hustling and bustling to spending a lot more time at home.

Spending time at home had its benefits as some of us were more productive when it came to work, and we were able to spend more time with the family. It kind of reminded me of how it was in the 90s. If you did get out, you saw more people outside walking the neighborhood. We spent time eating at home and enjoying the company of the kids. It was kind of refreshing.

On the other hand, this refreshing time of enjoying being at home for a bit helped all of us move a lot less, which caused many of us to gain weight. It was not hard to abandon our active lifestyle and healthy eating in exchange for binge watching Netflix and snacking on everything we could get our hands on.

But with the holidays quickly approaching, we need to get back on track and start focusing on making changes again.

It’s extremely important to focus on living a healthier life by being active and eating healthy, as studies show that being overweight and out of shape makes us more prone to disease, as well as other health issues. This worldwide pandemic that we have had to deal with since the start of 2020 has really shed more light on being healthy. This virus had and continues to have a terrible impact on everyone in one way or another, but many who are unhealthy, overweight and out of shape were highly susceptible to catching the virus. So now, we need to focus on living a heathier lifestyle.

Here are a few ways we can get back on track and focus on making changes in our body:

1

Get moving and stay moving.

Start by just getting in a walk every day after dinner. If you typically are more active, then slowly get started back to being as active as you were before. Find something you enjoy doing, like playing tennis, riding your bike, jogging or just playing outside with the kids. Just find something active to do on a daily basis.

Travis Johnson, DotFit and APEX Certified Nutrition Specialist.

2

Be more mindful of your food intake.

3

Limit your alcohol consumption.

4

Get a nutrition specialist.

Food plays a huge part in the changes our bodies make.

At times it may be easier to just get take out, but it might be healthier to cook a quick healthy meal at home. Plan out your dinners for the week and go grocery shopping accordingly. If you are prepared for your weekly meals, you will do better at watching your portion sizes.

A poll on WebMD showed that 21% of Americans and 17% internationally blamed weight gain on alcohol consumption. Also, per WebMD, alcohol in moderation (one or two drinks a day) is associated with less weight gain. Drinking four or more drinks a day are associated with an increased risk of obesity.

So, be mindful of your alcohol consumption to minimize your risk of gaining weight.

I hear it all the time: “My food is fine,” or “I eat healthy.”

I also hear how hard people are having reaching their goals.

Once someone finally gets started with their own personalized meal plan, they are more likely to reach their goals. If you have a nutrition specialist, create a plan just for you. It will be individualized, and it will be easier to follow and maintain.

These tips will help you and your family get back on track to reaching your goals. This is the best time to get fit and stay fit as maintaining a healthy weight should also help lessen our stress levels – especially during the stressful holiday season.

Visit https://fitfor18.com/nutrition-fitness-training/ for more information and helpful tips.