October 2013 - Absolutely Brazos Magazine

Serving Richmond, Rosenberg & Fulshear

OCTOBER 2013

Meet the

GEMS

FOCUS ON

THE CURE

of Fort Bend

Halloween

TREATS

$2.95

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

Cross Creek Fall Festival

We’re taking mammograms to a whole new dimension.

3 - D MAM MOG R AM S

Now available at St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital According to the American Cancer Society, the early detection of breast cancer saves thousands of lives each year. One of the newest tools in this effort is 3-D mammography, or tomosynthesis, which is now available at St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital.

3-D mammograms allow physicians to take images from different angles, providing sharper, better quality results and a reduction in “false positives.” The new technology is recommended for women with dense breast tissue and allows physicians to view images with pinpoint accuracy in order to detect smaller tumors earlier.

See if a mammogram is the answer for you.

Call 281-637-7001 today for an appointment.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month!

St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital invites you to take charge of your health by scheduling your annual mammogram.

StLukesSugarLand.com Highway 59 one block north of Highway 6 at Lake Pointe Parkway | 1317 Lake Pointe Parkway, Sugar Land, TX 77478

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• ACCREDITED: We are the only accredited compounding pharmacy in Fort Bend County.

281-494-7777 • 1730 Williams Trace Blvd., Ste. K, Sugar Land www.absolutelybrazos.com l OCTOBER 2013

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• Evaluation and treatment for different lung diseases such as Dyspnea, COPD/ Emphysema, Asthma, Pulmonary hypertension, Pulmonary fibrosis, Chronic Cough, Pleural effusion and Lung Transplantation

• Pre-operative evaluation • Disability evaluation • Occupational health evaluation • Minimally Invasive Procedures including Ultrasound Guided Bronchoscopy and Electromagnetic Navigation Bronchoscopy to Diagnose Lung Cancer

• Bronchial Thermoplasty designed to reduce asthma attack frequency and severity

• Sleep Evaluation for sleep apnea, Insomnia, fatigue and other sleep disorders

• In-house Labs, Radiology & Sleep

PULMONOLOGY CRITICAL CARE

SLEEP MEDICINE

J. Georges Youssef, M.D. Call 713-781-4600 for an Appointment Most insurances are accepted.

Same day appointments are available.

Two locations to serve you!

Main Location: 1429 Hwy. 6 South Sugar Land, Texas 77478 Second Location: 7777 Southwest Fwy, Suite 860 Houston, Texas 77074 4

Lab Testing

OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

J. Georges Youssef, M.D. Board certified in Pulmonary Diseases, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine Dr. Youssef has admitting privileges at Memorial Hermann, The Methodist Hospital, St. Luke’s Hospital and Kindred Hospital.

Dr. Youssef completed Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Medicine from The Stony Brook University Hospital in New York and Pulmonary Transplant Fellowship at The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in Pennsylvania. He relocated in the Houston-Sugar Land area after 10 years of private practice in Arizona.

Dr. Youssef has strong roots in the community and is looking forward to serving all of your Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine needs.

CROSS CREEK RANCH

FALL HOME TOUR FESTIVAL

OCT. 5-20

FESTIVAL EVENTS – FREE ADMISSION –

Tour professionally decorated model homes. Each home will surprise you! Forget Pinterest and Martha Stewart! Bring your cameras

and let your imagination flow!

CROSS CREEK RANCH ART MARKET

More than 30 art vendors and festive food booths!

Sat. Oct 19 . 11am-4pm

4th Annual FULSHEAR SCARECROW FESTIVAL

The popular 4th Annual Fulshear Scarecrow Festival returns Saturday, October 19!

Enjoy kid-friendly games, pumpkin decorating, live music and a stroll through a collection of full-size scarecrows.

for more details

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HigHland . lennar . newmark . Perry Homes . Trendmaker . Village Builders Custom Home Builders: aVanTi . darling . HunTingTon . ParTners in Building . Taylor orrison www.absolutelybrazos.com l OCTOBER 2013 m5

COVER STORY October 2013

F E AT U R E S 39 FOCUS ON THE CURE

From detection to recovery and even breast reconstruction surgery, find vital information every woman needs in breast cancer education.

40 CURE AND COMPANY

Offers products and pampering for cancer patients

44 absolutely! PRETTY IN PINK

See what local retailers have to offer to support Breast Cancer Awareness.

FILM REVIEW 30 PRISONERS

Hugh Jackman, Melissa Leo and Jake Gyllenhaal star in a gripping film centered on missing six-year-old girls and one father’s actions to find them.

Joe M. Gurecky, Carl P. Favre and S. Scott West.

Photography by Nesossi Studios.

12 THE GEMS OF FORT BEND: MEET THREE GENEROUS, ENTHUSIASTIC MEN SERVING These men have dedicated their time to volunteering and giving back to the community, and each one will be honored at a premier event featuring dinner, live entertainment and a “chips for charity” casino benefiting AccessHealth.

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OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

CONTRIBUTORS

OCTOBER 2013

|

VOLUME 1

|

Patti Parish-Kaminski absolutely! focus media Page 14

NUMBER 11

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MEDICAL & BUSINESS 36 MEDICAL FOCUS

Meet Dr. Brett McRay

NEW TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD 53 J. GEORGES YOUSSEF, M.D. Opens New Sugar Land Office

NEWSWORTHY 37 OAKBEND MEDICAL CENTER Honors Community Pillars of Inspiration

47 COWBOY UP 2013

Partners with Texas Farm Bureau Insurance

30 Linda K. Eaves Writer Page 40

absolutely!

DELICIOUS 54 SPOOKY HALLOWEEN DRINKS Ideas everyone will love

40

57 SWEET TREATS

Steve Kursar Auto Enthusiast Page 52

For Halloween

50 CROSS CREEK RANCH FALL HOME TOUR FESTIVAL Showcases Best in Holiday Décor

Nick Nicholson Entertainment Editor Pages 30

COLUMNS

52

60 A LITTLE PIECE OF HISTORY

absolutely!

AUTO REVIEW 52 2014 JEEP CHEROKEE

IN EVERY ISSUE 10 EDITOR’S POINT OF VIEW 32 SEEN ON THE SCENE Photos from local charitable events

48 OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART OF BRAZOS

A few snapshots of people, places and happenings

56 COMMUNITY EVENTS Fun events the whole family will enjoy

ON THE COVER: Joe M. Gurecky, S. Scott West and Carl P. Favre.

58 COMMUNITY MARKETPLACE

Photography by Nesossi Studios.

8

Joan Frances Writer Page 60

Jester State Prison Farm

OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

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Another wAy we’re leAding medicine: introducing dr. tArriK ZAid Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is pleased to welcome Dr. Tarrik Zaid to Houston Methodist Gynecologic Oncology Associates. Dr. Zaid has extensive training and experience in gynecologic cancer, including the completion of a fellowship in gynecologic oncology.

Dr. Zaid joins the experts at Houston Methodist Gynecologic Oncology Associates in providing compassionate, individualized care for the treatment of uterine, ovarian, cervical and other female reproductive system cancers. This team of leading physicians is supported by the state-of-the-art technology and caring, knowledgeable staff at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

Call 281.275.0880 today to sChedule an appointment.

Medical Office Building Three 16605 Southwest Freeway, Suite 450 Sugar Land, Texas 77479 281. 275 . 0880 methodistsugarlanddocs.com

Join us for

Trunk or Treat on 10/27

Women’s Apparel, Jewelry & Accessories L.A. Idol • Silver Denim Consuela • Lollia Circle E Candles • Cowgirl Justice Big Buddha • Corral Boots Lane Boots • Liberty Black Boots Miss Me Jeans • Vera Bradley Infant & Children’s Apparel Home Décor & Gifts Monogramming Available

281.232.7737

www.southernsisterdesigns.com

817 Third Street • Historic Downtown Rosenberg Open Tues - Sat 10:00am - 5:00pm & Sun 1:00pm - 5:00pm www.absolutelybrazos.com l OCTOBER 2013

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EXCLAMATION POINTS! THE INSIDE SCOOP STRAIGHT FROM THE TOP Editor-in-Chief, PATTI PARISH-KAMINSKI The calendar says fall has arrived.

My internal temperature gauge says otherwise. Other than the fact that we are still fighting heat, humidity and mosquitoes, I love the arrival of fall. Even though my kids no longer don costumes and go trick-or-treating, my house is full of candy, there are pumpkins on my porch and Tim still puts out the ghostly – really ghastly – Deanna McDonald, Patti Parish-Kaminski and Halloween decorations in our yard.

Ann Smith at Texana’s Changing Lives Breakfast.

What’s not to love?

I also absolutely! love our GEMS of Fort Bend, who will debut this month with a very special event on October 24th benefiting AccessHealth. These three Generous, Enthusiastic Men Serving have so much in common. They are Godly men, they are dedicated to helping others and they absolutely! love Fort Bend. Yes, I am absolutely! in love with our GEMS, and I hope you will enjoy getting to know them beginning on page 12.

October also brings us Breast Cancer Awareness, and with all of our community magazines, it is important to us to shine the spotlight on such an important issue affecting so many. Our special Focus on the Cure section begins on page 39, and it is full of valuable information to share with your friends and family.

As we are in the midst of gala and festival season, we are out and about in Brazos quite a bit. If you are involved with an organization and would like for us to attend and cover it, please e-mail me at editor@absolutelybrazos.com. And, if you see us out and about, please say hello! We love meeting new friends in our community.

If you are looking to spend some quality time with the kids making sweet treats for Halloween, check out our Spooky Halloween Drinks and Sweet Treats features.

Fun to make and even more fun to eat!

Be safe this Halloween, and remember, ladies, get those mammograms!

Vol. 1 No. 11 | October 2013 4655 TECHNIPLEX DR. STE. 700 STAFFORD, TX 77477 281-690-4242 WWW.ABSOLUTELYBRAZOS.COM

EXECUTIVE PUBLISHERS

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

Patti Parish-Kaminski SENIOR AC C OUNT EXECUTIVE

Jessica Kij

AC C OUNT EXECUTIVES

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

Grace Belleza

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Ginger Garza

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

Sarah Bearden

CONTRIBUTORS

Linda K. Eaves Joan Frances Steve Kursar Nick Nicholson

PHOTOGRAPHER

Absolutely! yours,

Nesossi Studios

WEB DESIGNER

editor@absolutelybrazos.com

Facebook.com/AbsolutelyBrazos Ticket giveaways to area attractions and events.

Joey Belleza INQUIRIES

281-690-4242

READER FEEDBACK Attached is a sweet note we received while passing out our lunches one day and I wanted to pass it on to you, too. Thank you so very much for including us in both absolutely! Brazos and Fort Bend Focus Magazines last July. We received many, many new volunteers this summer because of your article. We are 100% volunteer based – no paid staff – so we are always so very grateful for a wonderful opportunity to get our name and face out in the community. A big thanks to you and your staff for a wonderful article – we appreciate you and your support!

Together we can end childhood hunger in our community!

Best Regards, Adriane Gray, Lunches of Love

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OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

E D I T O R IA L S U B M I S S I O N S

editor@absolutelybrazos.com

Published by

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

Join

Generous, Enthusiastic Men Serving

Carl P. Favre

Joe M. Gurecky

S. Scott West

CASINO DINNER LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Thursday, October Twenty Four, Two Thousand and Thirteen 6:30 - 10 pm Benefiting Imperial Center for the Arts 823 Third Street Rosenberg, Texas

Special Thanks to Our Official GEMS Contributors Marquise

Safari Texas Ranch

Trillion

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Imperial Center for the Arts Nesossi Studios Pamela Printing RBC-Hardee Investment Group Texas Direct Auto

Brilliant Cut

Gurecky Manufacturing Services, Inc.

Corporate Gem

Mr. and Mrs. Neil Banfield Carl and Mary Favre Roberts, Markel, Weinberg May W. Tape, DDS The West Law Firm

Tickets & Sponsorship Opportunities

281-690-4242

www.absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Fort Bend Focus and absolutely! Brazos Magazines Host the GEMS of Fort Bend

Generous, Enthusiastic Men Serving

F

Photography by Nesossi Studios

or the past five years, Fort munity by supporting AccessHealth.

Bend Focus Magazine has hostAccessHealth, formerly Fort Bend ed a stellar evening honoring the Family Health Center, is dedicated JEWELS of Fort Bend – the Joyous, to excellence in providing integrated Extraordinary Women Enriching health care services that are affordLives. From 2008 to 2012, twentyable and accessible to the commufive Fort Bend women were honored nity at large. as JEWELS in an exclusive annual “These men are role models for event that raised nearly $100,000 our community,” said Lisa Fredfor six community organizations. rickson, publisher of absolutely!

Today, this tradition of shining the focus media. “Our GEMS have not spotlight on community servants only helped build our community The GEMS of Fort Bend: S. Scott West, while benefiting area non-profits through their leadership, service Joe M. Gurecky and Carl P. Favre. continues with Fort Bend Focus and and generosity, they have helped absolutely! Brazos Magazine’s new initiative: the GEMS of mold it into a remarkable place to live, work and raise our Fort Bend. children. We are humbled by their giving spirits that exemThe GEMS of Fort Bend’s debut is scheduled for Thursplify the true meaning of the word service.” day, October 24th, and the event honors three Generous, EnJoin the GEMS of Fort Bend – Carl, Joe and Scott – on Octhusiastic Men Serving: Carl P. Favre, Joe M. Gurecky and tober 24th for a fun-filled evening of entertainment provided S. Scott West. Featuring live entertainment and a “chips for

by Imperial Arts, a casino, cocktails and a seated dinner – all charity” casino, the event will be held at the Imperial Center to help make health care accessible to everyone in Fort Bend. for the Arts located in Historic Downtown Rosenberg, and Tickets are available by contacting absolutely! focus media best of all, the proceeds will be invested back into the comat 281-690-4242.

The West Law Firm Community Involvement: Director Fort Bend Lawyers Care Council of Resources Fort Bend County Women’s Center Development Board Memorial Hermann Hospital Sugar Land

S. Scott West

Triple-Board Certified Trial Lawyer 12

1600 Highway Six, Suite 450 Sugar Land, Texas 77478

281.277.1500 • westfirm.com

OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

Congratulations to the

GEMS of Fort Bend

WEDDINGS | GALAS | CORPORATE MEETINGS | SPECIAL EVENTS

A Gem of a Venue

Safari Texas Ranch 281.277.7888

11627 FM 1464, Richmond, Texas 77407 www.safaritexasballroom.com | e-mail: events@safaritexasballroom.com www.absolutelybrazos.com l OCTOBER 2013

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Generous, Enthusiastic Men Serving

GEM of Fort Bend

Joe M. Gurecky

By Patti Parish-Kaminski

F

armer, machinist, entrepreneur, statesman all describe this GEM of Fort Bend who was born and raised in the small, rural community of Fairchild as the son of a share cropper. Fort Bend County native Joe M. Gurecky has never called anywhere else “home,” and home, or Rosenberg, is definitely where this GEM’s heart belongs.

“Doris and I built a ‘starter’ home in Rosenberg in 1958, and we still live in that home today. Even though in the early part of our marriage I worked in Houston, I never thought of living anywhere else,” said Gurecky, who enjoyed a 27 year career with N. L. Baroid, an oilfield service company located in Houston. Even though he traveled to Houston daily along Highway 90A, this GEM stayed close to his roots. “My family ties and my ability to farm part-time for myself factored into why we stayed in Rosenberg,” recalled Gurecky. “To teach us entrepreneurship, my dad let each of my brothers and I farm a bit of the family farm. We rented land from my dad, used his equipment and paid for the oil and gas. What we made off of our crop, we kept as a profit.”

Another lesson learned from his dad, Joe J. Gurecky, was the love of machining. “Growing up, my dad would buy a new piece of farm equipment and immediately start making alterations to improve the equipment and function. As a kid, we learned if something wasn’t working like we thought it should, we could adjust it to make it better.”

Joe J. Gurecky raised his five children as true American entrepreneurs though he was the first generation born in America. His father, Frank Gurecky, came from Europe as a talented journeyman blacksmith, and today, Gurecky has his grandfather’s blacksmith training certificate, written in German, proudly displayed in his office. Gurecky’s maternal grandfather, Vojt Stavinoha, was instrumental in the early 1900s in building a Catholic church in Needville and a lifeline for the community: the Fairchild Dance Hall. “In those times, the hall was more than just a recreational place; it was a civic center. People met there to hear the local and world news as there were few radios and no televisions in their homes.”

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OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

Stavinoha also formed a co-op with area farmers to build two cotton gins so the farmers could control the ginning of their own cotton at harvest time. “There was a lot of entrepreneurship in my family way before my time,” said Gurecky. “Dad was self-employed his entire life, yet he and Mom raised us five siblings and was able to purchase a 100 acre black land farm..”

Entrepreneurship wasn’t the only asset that Gurecky gained from his rural roots. In rural Fort Bend County, he found his lifelong partner and love while going to school with her at Needville Junior High School. “For the first few years, I just aggravated her,” Gurecky said about his early years with Doris. “She sat in front of me with a beautiful Western coat with tassels, and I would pull her tassels. It was just puppy love until the end of our junior year in high school.”

Both Doris and Joe, born one day apart, graduated from Needville High School in 1956. Doris attended Southwest Business School in Houston, and Joe attended Taylor Vocational Tech School. After about six months, Gurecky had the opportunity to work for N. L. Baroid taking his brother’s position, who had been called into military service.

The Gurecky family: Blair Koepke, Joe Gurecky, Kylie, Jacob and Kellen Dorman, Doris Gurecky, Blake Koepke, Luke, Tama and John Dorman and Pam and Ken Koepke.

Gurecky spent 17 of his 27 years at N. L. Baroid in manufacturing management, and his family spirit of entrepreneurship served him well when in the early 1980s, a severe recession in the petroleum industry hit the Houston area. “We had overbuilt,” recalled Gurecky. “All companies in the petroleum industry were laying off people.” At the time, he was the Manufacturing Manager supervising a 200 employee shop. He was instructed to lay off 160 of the employees. “There were only 40 of us left; we called ourselves the ‘Fortunate 40.’”

Even though he was able to retain his job, the layoffs weren’t over. Gurecky was asked to reduce his 40 member team to 12; his new position as Material Distribution Manager was being moved to North Houston and his role would change. “I told Doris, ‘I’m a nuts and bolts guy; I like manufacturing.’ So, Doris and I decided to start our own business.”

This decision was based on an industry trend that Gurecky had foreseen. “There was a huge philosophical change in manufacturing, a philosophy on which we founded Gurecky

Manufacturing. The big companies were beginning to utilize on a ten-member committee to fund the center. “We raised job shops instead of hiring employees as a cost-saving mea$2.5 million from people and businesses in our community sure They were letting the mom and pop shops build what to help build our facility.” The George Foundation funded a they needed.” challenge grant of $2.5 million, and if the community could Though as Gurecky said, “We had nothing to offer but a meet it, they would donate the grant for a total of $5 million part-time job,” he hired several of his colleagues and started bringing technical education to Rosenberg. “I don’t have a colGurecky Manufacturing in Rosenberg. “It was tough, but it lege education,” shared Gurecky. “I strongly support any type turned out to be a Godsend,” said Gurecky. “Did I see it all of education, and I’m very proud to have been a part of bringcoming? No, but I knew there was going to be a huge corpoing this educational initiative with Wharton County Junior rate change of philosophy regarding contractors. Even today, College and the Texas State Technical College to Rosenberg.”

I manufacture parts that I built over 50 years ago.”

Even though Mayor Gurecky has officially retired after he Gurecky’s ability to foresee and plan for the future served elected to not run for a seventh term, he remains involved in him well as he entered his life of community service. In his community with a focus on 1995 with Gurecky Manufacturing running well, he ran for education. In 2005, Gurecky Rosenberg City Council, District 4 and was elected twice to was appointed to a six-year serve two-year terms. “I was a political activist before I beterm by Governor Rick Perry came a councilman,” said Gurecky. Back in the early 1990s, to the Texas State TechniGurecky, along with five colleagues, formed a taxpayer coalical College Board of Regents tion. “We weren’t watchdogs. We were just interested in our and was reappointed for a local government and questioned why some things were hapsecond six-year term in 2011. pening.” The five-person coalition grew to over 100 members He is also a foundation board who attended council, school board and commissioner’s court member for Wharton County Regent Gurecky at the 2013 Graduameetings.

Junior College. Gurecky also tion Ceremony at Texas State Techni“I always felt that I needed to give back,” shared Gurecky served as the Board President cal College-Marshall. regarding the catalyst for public service. “I wanted to make a of OakBend Medical Center contribution to our community and fulfill my personal desire and is currently on the board of the Polly Ryon Foundation, to give back.”

Gulf Coast Medical Foundation, Fort Bend Seniors Meals on In 1999, Gurecky ran for Mayor of Rosenberg and was Wheels and NewFirst National Bank. If you attend virtually elected as the City’s 28th mayor. After 12 years of mayoral any community event from L.E.A.F’s Men Who Cook to the service, he is the longest continuously tenured mayor of the Holy Rosary Bazaar to the Fort Bend County Fair, you will City of Rosenberg, and though his role was at times controversee Gurecky Manufacturing as a supporter. sial, overseeing and contributing to the growth of Rosenberg Despite his many professional and community achieveis one of the former mayor’s proudest achievements. “Watchments, perhaps Gurecky’s greatest legacy is that of hard ing the city change and being a part of the amazing growth of work and family. He often shares a Czech phrase reminiscent Rosenberg is what I enjoyed most about being mayor.” of both his work ethic and his heritage: “Bez práce – nej sú One of the City’s greatest achievements during Mayor kolá e, which translates to ‘Without work, there are no koGurecky’s tenure was the building of Brazos Town Center. laches.’”

“It was unheard of for the government to partner with the “My parents raised us with a good work ethic, a responprivate sector in Rosenberg. Other Fort sibility to serve and a determination Bend cities were doing it, but Rosenberg that anything is possible. You can have never did. The council and I felt so the American dream if you’re willing to strongly that Brazos Town Center was work at it.” a risk worth taking, yet the taxpayers of Both of the Gureckys, Joe and Doris, Rosenberg never had to pay one cent for have instilled this virtue of hard work the development.” Today, the 550 acre and service in their two children and six Brazos Town Center is the 30th larggrandchildren to continue the Gurecky est entertainment/shopping center in legacy. For his determination, his forethe United States with 112 tenants and sight for the future and his willingness boasts $3.5 million in annual sales tax to serve and share of his time and talrevenue to the City of Rosenberg. ents with others, absolutely! Brazos and Mayor Joe M. Gurecky, Rosenberg Police Chief “I’m very proud of the Fort Bend Fort Bend Focus Magazines are proud to Robert Gracia and NewQuest Properties Steve Technical Center that we were able to honor Joe M. Gurecky as a GEM of Fort Alvis signing agreements for the building of Brazos build as well,” said Gurecky, who served Bend.

Town Center.

www.absolutelybrazos.com l OCTOBER 2013

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OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

Time to make Dollars and Sense of your Investment Portfolio If your current portfolio is not the gem you wish it was, we should talk. Continued market uncertainty is no reason for a lackluster view of the future. Let us do the work to help your investments make sense once again.

Congratulations to the 2013 GEMS of Fort Bend! The service you provide to our community is just as, if not more, precious than gems alone. Thank you for making Fort Bend a better place for all of us to live.

There’s Wealth In Our Approach.™

Hardee Investment Group Hardee Investment Group (713) 853-0879 www.hardeeinvestmentgroup.com © 2013 RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC.

www.absolutelybrazos.com l OCTOBER 2013

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Generous, Enthusiastic Men Serving

GEM of Fort Bend

Carl P. Favre

By Patti Parish-Kaminski

W

hat does Sir Winston Churchill and Fort Bend County resident, attorney and community servant Carl P. Favre have in common? A shared philosophy of service. “A quote by Sir Winston Churchill says it all,” according to this GEM of Fort Bend. Churchill said, “We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give.”

“I know Churchill’s words to be so true,” said Favre. “As a person of faith, I do believe that we all have been blessed and are called to share our blessings with others.” This passion for helping others began during a transformation in Favre’s life, a period of self-discovery that was years in the making.

As a young man, he graduated with a Civil Engineering Degree from the University of Texas at Arlington and began his career designing airports at Houston’s Hobby Airport. He had married in college in 1973, and by 1976, Favre decided to put himself through law school at the University of Houston while working his full-time job. In 1977, he was blessed with his first son, Christopher Jude.

Joy was put on hold shortly after coming home because infant Christopher began to have breathing problems. He was admitted to a Neo-Natal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), and after a series of invasive tests, multiple misdiagnoses and 10 days in the hospital, Chris’ condition continued to deteriorate. Feeling hopeless and desperate, Favre returned to the Catholic roots of his childhood and began praying for his son’s recovery. He promised God that he would read the Bible, cover to cover, if only his son were spared. “After this prayer of negotiation, the very next day, Chris got better. The doctors simply did not know what the problem was. In the end, they felt it was likely newborn pneumonia. Chris has never been sick since.” Yet, Favre forgot the vow made in desperation in the NICU of Texas Children’s Hospital.

Shortly thereafter, Favre and his family moved to Rogers, Arkansas, where he continued law school at the University of Arkansas. With a young family, Favre obtained a broker’s license and supported his family as a real estate broker in Ar-

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OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma while in school. He became a real estate broker for a small company, and sold a wide range of property from chicken farms to lake lots. “I loved real estate sales and the challenge of negotiations, but I wasn’t willing to give up pursuit of my law degree.”

Favre’s love of real estate and law was the foundation of his future career. He was hired directly out of law school by Exxon in 1980. “I started in litigation, and my first assignment was in New Orleans,” said Favre. Shortly after arriving in New Orleans, his second son, Nicholas Carl, was born. In 1982, Favre was sent to Colorado to help with the development of a new town for the workers of Exxon’s oil shale project. Unfortunately, after only six weeks, Exxon projected that the price of oil would plummet to around $10 per barrel and closed the project reassigning Favre to Houston.

Favre spent the next five years as senior counsel for Exxon’s subsidiary, Friendswood Development Company. While working for Friendswood, he became board certified in commercial and residential real estate law. At Friendswood, he served as counsel for the master planned communities of Kingwood and Clear Lake City, getting back to the professional combination that he loved: real estate and law. He left Exxon in 1987 and joined Sugarland Properties, Inc. as general counsel. “The development of raw land into a community is something that I always enjoyed,” said Favre, who later became a partner as Sugarland Properties grew into Planned Community Developers, Ltd. In his new role in a growing, thriving community, Favre was part of the team that developed and built much of First Colony including Sugar Land Town Square. “I consider my small role in building such an amazing community as a great professional accomplishment. We were able to participate in building a community that we live in, work in and that we love so much. I feel a great deal of pride at being a participant in helping building this community and making Sugar Land one of the best cities in the United States to live and work.”

Amelia Favre Plexico, Carl, Melissa, Christopher and Juliette Favre with Hector Betancourt.

By 1991, Favre had divorced and despite his professional success, he felt something was missing in his life. “After my divorce, I really did some reflection on my life – about who I was and what I wanted to do,” said Favre. “On the outside, I had it all, but on the inside, I was miserable. I realized the missing component in my life was a personal relationship with God. I rededicated my life and began the transformation of my spiritual life, as well as service to others. I also prayed that a Godly woman be brought into my life.”

Carl, Zoe and Mary Favre on top of Bald Mountain in Utah.

Favre’s prayers were answered at a church dance in 1992 when he met Mary. “From the moment we danced, I knew she was the one,” said Favre. He took her out the next day for brunch and told her that he wanted to see her again. Unfortunately, Mary’s schedule at the time didn’t allow for a relationship. “She told me that she was sorry, but she had committed to facilitate a 36-week, intense Bible study.” Mary was leading the class of only 12 individuals, and the curriculum included reading the Bible from beginning to end. “She told me there was one spot available, and if I really wanted to see her, I could join the study.”

Favre finally made good on that promise made years ago, and he read the Bible cover to cover. In 1994, Carl and Mary were married, but their journey getting to the altar encountered a few obstacles. “I asked Mary to be my wife in December of 1993, and right after we became engaged, she was diagnosed with breast cancer, and I was diagnosed with testicular cancer. Through that ordeal, we realized that every day is a blessing, and our priority in life should be to strive to do His will.”

Favre’s commitment to the community he loves and helped build includes serving numerous organizations, often from behind the scenes. His humility or “quiet service” comes from his intense desire to simply help those in need. Though he serves on four boards currently including the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, Sugar Land Heritage Foundation and Skeeters’ Deacon’s Dugout Foundation, the organization that truly

has his heart is the Parks Youth Ranch. “The Parks Youth Ranch is a unique facility,” said Favre. “There’s really nothing like quite like it, and yet, and it is my hope that it will be a model for other youth facilities because we are making a difference in children’s lives.” The Ranch provides housing and resources for homeless teens and works at securing them a permanent or foster home. “Usually, we have only 90 days to give them a positive and nurturing environment along with counseling. Helping a homeless child, now that’s important.” shared Favre. “We feel the same way about other charitable organizations that are focused on improving the welfare of women and children. Those are the kinds of organizations we feel the greatest desire to help.”

Favre has made it a priority to instill the value of giving to his three children: Christopher, Nicholas and Zoe. “At times during our children’s lives, we have given them financial support, and I tell them, ‘Don’t pay us back.’ Instead, we ask that they give the money we gave them to a charity or someone in need.”

Favre truly believes in the philosophy that it is much better to give than to receive. “The irony of it all is that the Bible says the more you give, the more you will receive.” Proverbs 11:24-25 states, “There is one who scatters, and yet increases all the more, and there is one who withholds what is justly due, and yet it results only in want. The generous man will be prosperous, and he who waters will himself be watered.”

Carl, Landon, Amber, Briley and Nicholas Carl Favre.

“Our community has many charitable organizations that do an excellent job of supporting people who are in need and helping them through a personal crisis,” said Favre. “You get a sense of well-being that is hard to describe when you think you’ve made a difference in someone’s life. ‘Pay it forward’ is what Mary always says, so if we can share our blessings with others, we will have a fulfilled life.” For his humility in service, his dedication to community and his willingness to share his blessings with so many, absolutely! Brazos and Fort Bend Focus Magazines are proud to honor Carl P. Favre as a GEM of Fort Bend.

www.absolutelybrazos.com l OCTOBER 2013

19

Gurecky Manufacturing Service, Inc.

2013 GEM of Fort Bend Joe M. Gurecky and Doris Gurecky

Honors the 2013 GEMS of Fort Bend

2420 3rd Street, Rosenberg, TX 77471 281.342.5926 www.gurecky.com

20

OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

HEADACHE TREATMENTS AS UNIQUE AS EACH PATIENT. THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PRACTICING MEDICINE AND LEADING IT. The Headache Center at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is committed to providing advanced, personalized care to help chronic headache patients get back to a life without pain. Receive expedited access to our world-class team of headache specialists. They will provide coordinated and comprehensive care starting with an accurate diagnosis and a unique treatment plan to help alleviate and prevent chronic headaches.

Schedule an appointment and stop enduring pain. 281.276.8999 or headachecenter@houstonmethodist.org 16655 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, Texas 77479

houstonmethodist.org/sugarland

Generous, Enthusiastic Men Serving

GEM of Fort Bend

S. Scott West

By Patti Parish-Kaminski

S

mart, aggressive, tenacious are characteristics often associated with attorneys. And, when you meet S. Scott West, you immediately recognize those traits.

But once you get to know this GEM of Fort Bend and his legacy of service, you recognize traits that are not normally associated with a personal injury trial lawyer. West is compassionate, insightful and downright tender. But make no mistake about this GEMS’ sensitive side; he’s above all else a passionate fighter and protector.

Born and raised in Houston, West’s childhood experiences laid the groundwork for his role as a protector, his steadfast determination to fight for the underdog and his sensitive side. Man of the house by age ten, West attributes the development of these traits to his mother. “Whatever God gave me in the spirit of giving, caring and fighting for the underdog came from Him through my mother. Momma is very tender and emotional. She sacrificed most everything she has ever had for her children. She’s non-confrontational and accommodating — until someone crosses one of her children. Then, you better find shelter.”

From an early age, West knew that he wanted to be a lawyer, but he also knew that he needed an undergraduate degree first. While in high school, he got a copy of the Texas Blue Book, a legal directory of attorneys. “I started looking at the background of lawyers and found that most had business degrees. I wanted to be different,” said West. His undergraduate choice was a logical one given his childhood fascination with how things work. “One Christmas when I was a young boy, I wanted tools. Momma got me plastic tools, and I threw a fit. I wanted real tools.”

From taking electrical outlets out of the wall to removing the oil pan from under his mother’s Buick, young West was intrigued by all things mechanical. A good student, he was able to graduate high school with two much-needed partial scholarship/grant offers: one from The University of Texas at Austin (UT), and another from Massachusetts Institute of

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OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

Technology (MIT). “I borrowed money from my grandfather and took a bus to Cambridge, Massachusetts to tour the MIT campus,” recalled West. West ultimately chose UT because he felt Austin would provide a more diverse social and academic experience.

In 1985, West graduated from UT with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. He began his career on a project for a subcontractor for the Air Force and then moved to Hallettsville for a year to run one of father’s manufacturing companies. He returned to Houston and worked as an engineer during the day and attended law school at night.

West designed a device that is used at fast food restaurants throughout the world today. “I designed the window opening mechanism that is used at drive-thrus. I sold the patent rights and that money put me through law school.”

West graduated from South Texas College of Law in 1989 and began his career at a prominent personal injury law firm in Houston. He quickly became a valuable asset to the firm litigating complex cases and prosecuting claims for catastrophic losses by doing what his momma taught him: fighting for the underdog.

It was at this firm in 1990 when he met a young paralegal. “I was Scott and KK West. in trial with my boss, and during the trial, he lost his paralegal – she was fired.

He found a new paralegal to interview, but my boss didn’t make it to the office, so I interviewed her for him.” This new

The West family: Gunner, KK, Scott and Maddi West, Grayson, Matt and Tiffany Slataper and Garret West.

Garret, Scott and Gunner West in Hawaii.

paralegal impressed West, and she was hired. That paralegal was named KK. In 1992, Scott and KK were married. By 1996, Scott had become a named partner in the firm, and KK had given birth to twin boys, Garret and Gunner, joining their sisters Tiffany and Maddi. KK had left the legal profession to become a fulltime mom.

In 1997, Scott and KK started The West Law Firm out of a small office in Houston. They often worked 20 hours a day for the better part of a year to prepare one of his most complex cases for trial. The defendant was a formidable opponent: General Motors. “It was a bunch of General Motors lawyers against me,” said West, “and I loved it.” This did not deter West’s passion for fighting for justice. “After a full day of jury selection in East Texas, enough money finally was offered to settle the case for my client, a young boy paralyzed by a defective seat belt system. We settled that case, and shortly thereafter, moved into a new office in Sugar Land. It truly was a David and Goliath victory, and one I will never forget.

KK was right there with me, and our kids slept on that office floor many nights.”

With a number of impressive victories under his belt that now included personal injury and commercial litigation, West continued to represent causes that made a difference in people’s lives. “The first commercial case I tried was very important to a small manufacturing company in north Houston. One of their distributors had gone into competition with them in direct violation of their contract. We won the case and received a large monetary verdict along with a perpetual injunction to prevent other companies from competing with my client.” This was yet another David and Goliath victory for West and his client, who he still stays in touch with today.

With the relocation of The West Law Firm closer to home, West began supporting the community where he had chosen

to now work, live and raise his family. “Fort Bend County is special because of the sense of family, community, responsibility and pride. The overall spirit of excellence is unmatched by any community I’ve ever experienced,” said West.

The organizations that have West’s heart are naturally organizations that help the underdog, organizations such as the Fort Bend County Women’s Center where West was honored as Board Member of the Year in 2009. “Unfortunately in our society, many times women and children are the ones who end up being underdogs. I want to help those who can’t help themselves, which is why the Women’s Center is so important to me.”

West has served on the Women’s Center’s Council of Resources since 2006, and as a Board Member from 2008 – 2010. He has also served as a Board Member of Fort Bend Lawyers Care since its inception in 2007, an organization dedicated to providing legal services for individuals who cannot afford them. “Legal rights are vitally important,” said West. “I care about rights, I care about justice. That’s important to me.”

In addition to his board service, West participates in legal clinics for Fort Bend Lawyers Care, which help people from guardianship issues to adoptions to property rights, and he has served in event leadership roles with his wife, KK, who he says has inspired him to serve his community.

“Unquestionably, my wife’s spirit and unfailing hospitality inspire Scott West with grandson Grayson Slataper. many in our community – including me.”

As West has cited his wife as an encourager and inspiration, he does the same to instill leadership and service to his children. “Leadership is done by example,” said West. “That means when nobody is watching, what are you doing? Are you doing it the right way? Or, are you only doing it the right way when someone is watching?”

West’s legacy is that of a fighter – fighting to protect the underdog and fighting for those who cannot fight for themselves. And, his philosophy of service is equally as straightforward: “Do what you can, and don’t stop there. Whatever God’s gifts to you are, you should share with other people.

Whatever you don’t share is wasted.” For his ability and passion to fight for those in need and his willingness to share his gifts with so many, absolutely! Brazos and Fort Bend Focus Magazines are proud to honor S. Scott West as a GEM of Fort Bend.

www.absolutelybrazos.com l OCTOBER 2013

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OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

We congratulate the 2013 GEMS of Fort Bend.

Thank you for all that you do to give back!

Carl & Mary Favre

Mary and 2013 GEM of Fort Bend Carl Favre

We Salute You 2 0 1 3 G E M S of F ort B e n d

Your contributions to the community make Fort Bend a place worth living!

w w w. r o b e rt s m a r k e l . c o m www.absolutelybrazos.com l OCTOBER 2013

25

Congratulations

2013 GEMS of Fort Bend!

Your work in the community is truly appreciated by all!

5501 Ave. I (FM 1640) • Rosenberg

281-341-7733 • www.tapedds.com

May W. Tape, DDS

2013 GEMS of Fort Bend Thank you for your numerous contributions to our community!

Neil & Carolyn Banfield 26

OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

www.absolutelybrazos.com l OCTOBER 2013

27

Please Join Our Sponsors: Marquise Safari Texas Ranch

Trillion Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Imperial Center for the Arts Nesossi Studios Pamela Printing RBC-Hardee Investment Group Texas Direct Auto

Brilliant Cut Gurecky Manufacturing Services, Inc.

Corporate Gem Mr. and Mrs. Neil Banfield Carl and Mary Favre Roberts, Markel, Weinberg May W. Tape, DDS The West Law Firm Thursday, October Twenty Four, Two Thousand and Thirteen 6:30 - 10 pm Imperial Center for the Arts 823 Third Street Rosenberg, Texas

Be a part of this special event honoring the GEMS of Fort Bend.

To purchase tickets, sponsorship opportunities or for more information,

call 281-690-4242 28

OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

www.absolutelybrazos.com l OCTOBER 2013

29

FILM REVIEW

By Nick Nicholson

Y

our family is – or should be – your most prized possession.

That being said, what would you do in order to protect them? What if one day you realized your child was missing? That is the nightmare that has become all too real in Prisoners.

Directed by Denis Villeneuve and starring the wonderful talents of Hugh

Jackman and Jake Gyllenhaal, Prisoners contains an incredibly well-written script and a cast of virtual all-stars who each carries their own weight throughout the film.

Jackman stars as Keller Dover, whose six-year-old daughter has come up missing along with one of her girlfriends. Jake Gyllenhaal returns to a role in law enforcement as Detective Loki and quickly locates the best clue in the story – an old mobile home – and apprehends the driver, Alex Jones, brilliantly played by Paul Dano. However, Loki’s case doesn’t hold water, and the detective is forced to release his suspect. As the frustration continues to build, Dover concludes that every hour gone by creates a lesser chance that his daughter will be found alive. He looks deep inside of himself to find the courage that, if his daughter is going to live, it is entirely up to him to find her before it is too late.

Prisoners is a whodunit unlike any that I have seen in a number of years.

As each scene passes, the audience is left to decide how best to put the pieces of the mystery together. What is truly unique about Prisoners is that Ville-

Hugh Jackman as Keller Dover and Maria Bello as Grace Dover in Prisoners.

neuve has mastered the art of the cat and mouse game. He keeps the audience on its toes throughout the entire film, and the solution does not come into focus until the very end. Guess as much as you’d like, but this one is tough. The film is expertly shot by Roger Deakins, who is arguably the finest cinematographer alive today. With Prisoners’ brilliant script, wonderful acting and simply gorgeous visuals, look for multiple Oscar nominations out of this film as the award season draws near.

Prisoners Starring: Hugh Jackman, Melissa Leo and Jake Gyllenhaal Director: Denis Villeneuve Company: Warner Now Showing: In Local Area Theatres MPAA Rating: R Grade: A+ All photos courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures.

Photos by Wilson Webb.

Viola Davis as Nancy Birch, Jake Gyllenhaal as Detective Loki and Terrence Howard as Franklin Birch in Prisoners.

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

30

OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

Larry Caldwell, D.D.S. AND

ASSOCIATES

Specializing in Dentistry for Children and those with Special Needs Oral Health Education • Sealants • Intravenous Sedation High Speed Digital X-Rays • Ora Verse Anesthesia Reversal Laser Soft Tissue Removal • Accepting New Patients

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Complete eye health care for all ages Treatment of eye diseases Immediate care for eye emergencies Full line of fashion and budget eyewear LASIK evaluation and co-management Specialists in contact lens fit and comfort Most insurance plans accepted

Dr. Larry Wilkinson & Associates 4000 Avenue I ✦ Rosenberg Therapeutic Optometrists

281-342- 4664 visiontrends.com Family Owned and Operated since 1949

When was the last time you had your eyes examined? Call us. www.absolutelybrazos.com l OCTOBER 2013

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S E E N on the Scene

Fort Bend County Fair Style Show and Reception

Louise Blair, Joanne Crouch & Elizabeth Duff Drozd

Teresa Reading, Diana Collins, Sharlene Jacobson & Lauren Richard

Shannon Ferguson & Azalia Sadiq

Loren Carver & Dawn Hopkins

Margaret Kunz & Sandy Campos

Ana Jalomo, Annie Elliott & Lyn Wicke

Geraldine Whitt & Deanna Clapsaddle

Mandy Barbour & Megan Blair

A Younger Yet Natural Looking You

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Botox • Dysport • Xeomin • Juvederm Radiesse • Restylane • Dermaplaning Chemical Peels • Laser Services Sclerotherapy • Clear & Brilliant Laser 21720 Kingsland Blvd., Ste. 303 Katy, TX 77450

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Georgia Sloan, R.N.

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Providing the greater Houston area with over 25 years of aesthetic experience.

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OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

Honoring the Fort Bend County Fair’s 77th Anniversary • August 16, 2013 • Safari Texas Ranch

Kelly Klein, Amy Miller & Noell Myska

Jennifer & Charlene Rogers

Jennifer, Deb & Jessica Ellefson

Judy Bowe & Nancy Schultz

Carl Drozd & Susan Sillavan

Pat Scholes & Vickie Autrey

Lisa Reese & Brenda Duran

Jamey Crane & Kurt Freeman

Lauren & David Zietz

Enchanted Events: Sat., October 5 - Scarecrow Workshop Sat., October 12 - Pumpkin Palooza Sat., October 19 - Fall Fairy Festival Sat., October 26 - Backyard Birding with Houston Audubon Society Sat., November 2 - Tailgating, BBQ, and Wine with John DeMers Sat., November 9 - Creating Colorful Fall Containers Sat., November 16 - Easy, Elegant Holiday Entertaining with Elizabeth Stone Fri., November 22 - Enchanted Evening @ Enchanted Gardens Sat., November 23 - Enchanted Evening @ Enchanted Forest Sat., November 30 - Oh Christmas Tree!

Sat., December 7 - Holiday Decorating and Gift Giving Sat., December 14 - Pictures with Santa @ Enchanted Gardens Sat., December 21 - Pictures with Santa @ Enchanted Forest

Go to www.myenchanted.com for more information.

• Outstanding selection of flowers, shrubs and trees • Fun and educational events and seminars • A knowledgeable, friendly staff

• Custom landscaping services • Handmade pottery & beautiful statuary • Gift shops full of unique finds

Enchanted Forest

Enchanted Gardens

Enchanted Landscapes

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33

S E E N on the Scene

2nd Annual Back-to-School Fashion Show & Brunch Benefiting Lunches of Love

Bobbie Sue Woodfin & Jenna Broxson

Kay Danziger, Eileen Wildy & Sondra Urbano

Kathy Cartwright & Shelley Richards

Melony Barran & Katrina Sayes

Nicole Hawker with Emma & Sharon Dimicelli

Dana Clark & Candace Bruce

Joy Rosenbaum, Dawn Till & Liz Harden

Cynthia Preas, Julie Tinker & Amanda Dickson

Achieve the

Ultimate Smile!

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

Replacing missing teeth in one day! before

after

Restore your smile with cosmetic dentistry!

before

after

Implant Dentures in one day!

Stuart Rimes, DDS, MS

Crowns, Implants, Cosmetic, Reconstructive Dentistry Board Certified Prosthodontist

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

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OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

Cheryl Kramer & Janet Marlow

August 17, 2013 • Another Time Soda Fountain and Imperial Center for the Arts

Shelley Ellis, Kristin Dowling & Paityn Cox Rebecca Rodriguez, Lesa Mohr & Debbie Olmsted

Ellen Fairfield, Saige Sowa & Gabrielle Moch

Carole Allen, Harriett Pritchett & Iris McNair

Ester Wleczyk & Arlene Rivenes

Leona Hausler, Linda Band & Shirley Hyatt

Natalie Nichter-Ramirez, Mackella Rohan & Jana Simoneaux

Logan Cartwright & Carley Richards

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Not all customers will quality for all offers and incentives. Pictures for illustration purposes only. See dealer for details.

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MEDICAL FOCUS

Meet Dr. Brett McRay

You deserve a strong pain free lifestyle!

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

Members Are Seeing Amazing Results for:

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providing loving expert care

to keep your pet healthy & happy Complete Wellness Care Dentistry & Surgery Diagnostic & Medical Care Early Morning Drop-offs Dr. Michael Moore 36

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

Hours: Mon. - Fri. 7am - 6pm Sat. 8am - 12pm

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OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

The office of Dr. Stuart Rimes is pleased to welcome Brett McRay, DDS to the practice. Dr. McRay offers invaluable expertise in all facets of contemporary comprehensive dentistry. His dental postgraduate studies and experience have allowed him to competently serve patients in specialized areas of laser dentistry, aesthetics, implantology, clear aligner orthodontics and sedation.

Dr. McRay is originally from Houston and now calls Sugar Land home with his wife who is also a dentist. He is committed to higher education having graduDr. Brett McRay ated with honors from Texas State University and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University with Bachelors and Masters degrees respectively. After working several years with NASA, Dr. McRay attended the University of Texas School of Dentistry in Houston earning his Doctorate in Dental Surgery in 2010. He also completed a one year advanced dental residency with the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston and Memorial Hermann Hospital. Since graduation, he is furthering his commitment to continuing education by seeking his Fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry.

Dr. McRay is passionate in showing patients how to improve their smile through innovative techniques using the latest technology to provide quality dentistry to adults of all ages. His dental philosophy centers on each patient through outstanding patient education, comprehensive care and clinical knowledge.

Drs. Rimes and McRay have expanded their brand new office and now offer Friday hours for treatment. Get the smile you’ve always wanted. Call 281-3131565 to schedule a consultation with Dr. McRay or Dr. Rimes for your comprehensive dental needs today!

NEWSWORTHY

Sweetwater Pulmonary Associates

OakBend Medical Center Honors Community Pillars of Inspiration

Sandip Desai, MD and Manpreet Mangat, MD

OakBend Medical Center is proud to honor five outstanding women whose lasting contributions to the Richmond/ Rosenberg communities have made them legends in Fort Bend County.

Join OakBend in honoring Billie Wendt, Carolyn Banfield, Carole Brown, Donna Kay Tucker and Ann Council at OakBend Medical Center’s “Patchwork of Life ...

Putting the Pieces Together” event on Thursday, October 17th from 6:30 to 9:30 pm at Safari Texas Ranch.

All proceeds from the event will benefit OakBend Medical Center’s new Acute Care for the Elderly (ACE) Unit, the first of its kind in Fort Bend County. The ACE Unit will be dedicated to the serving only geriatric patients, utilizing the most recent research on geriatric care to design the unit and manage its operations to prevent the loss of physical and mental abilities in the elderly when hospitalized.

“OakBend’s 4th floor Jackson Street ACE unit will showcase a home-like setting with uncluttered hallways and rooms and a peaceful quiet zone for patients and visitors,” said Joe Freudenberger, OakBend Medical Center CEO. “Few things are more meaningful and important than investing time and resources in supporting the area in which we live,” said Pat Hebert, event chair.

“These women are outstanding role models who share passion, vision, integrity and heart, while continuing to uplift our communities.”

OakBend Medical Center’s “Patchwork of Life . . . Putting the Pieces Together” will include a dinner and live auction. Tickets to the event are $150 and sponsorship opportunities range from $1,500 to $10,000. For tickets and sponsorship information, call Katie Thompson at 281-341-3023 or e-mail kthompson2@obmc.org.

Board Certified Pulmonologists,

welcome their patients to their new facility.

We will help you breathe better.

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

Chronic Cough Pleural Effusion Support For Smoking Cessation In Office Pulmonary Function Test and Spirometry

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

To Make An Appointment Call 832-255-6632 16959 Southwest Freeway, Suite 100 • Sugar Land, TX 77479 Intersection of Sweetwater Blvd & Hwy 59

Sandip Desai, MD

w w w.sweetwaterpulmonary.com

Manpreet Mangat, MD

DARTS ON THE PATIO

THE BAR

KARAOKE WED. 9:00

The Grove Tavern 832-363-3363

HAPPY HOUR OPEN DAILY 1pm-2am 1410 E. Hwy 90, Richmond, TX EVERYDAY Like us on (between FM 359 and Harlem next to Pier 36) 1pm-7pm www.absolutelybrazos.com l OCTOBER 2013

37

Complete Design Service • Beginner Karate and Self Defense Class (ages 4-12) • Adult Bootcamps • Kickboxing and Conditioning Classes

Fall Special $99

• Free Personal Safety and Bullying Seminars

www.LoneStarKarate.com

Frank’s Nursery

Blaisdale

Gateway America

Lone Star Karate

Grand Pkwy. (99)

FM 359

222 FM 359 281.513.5566

Hwy 90

Come Visit Our 5000 Sq Ft Showroom!

Come Discover Owner Financing Available

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

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Gated Community Lake Lots Available Buy Now, Build Later!

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

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OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

8.5 mi

Acreage Lots from the 40’s!

OWNERS: Caron Lopez & Candelario Lopez

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

October is

Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Educate yourself and your loved ones about awareness and detection.

Learn about treatment options available in our community.

www.absolutelybrazos.com l OCTOBER 2013

39

FOCUS ON THE CURE

Cure and Company Offers Products and Pampering for Cancer Patients

By Linda K. Eaves

L

ike many endeavors, the idea for Cure and Company was born of necessity – a place for cancer patients to relax and be pampered while shopping for products to make them feel beautiful.

Irma Klink is a breast cancer survivor and wanted to do something to help cancer patients, but she wasn’t sure what. Her family carries the BRCA1 gene. At 32 years-old, daughter Sasha knew it wasn’t a matter of if, but when it would happen. “Honestly, I thought it would happen when I’m forty,” said Sasha.

She recalls watching a movie during which the word cancer was mentioned.

“I thought, oh my God, I haven’t given myself a breast exam. I felt like it was God who grabbed my hand and put it exactly where that lump was.”

When Sasha was tested, she was told she’s young, it’s probably just a knot, and it should go away, but her gut told her otherwise. She got checked again, and the biopsy was positive.

She had 16 rounds of chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, reconstruction and a hysterectomy as a preventative measure.

After she was diagnosed, Sasha and her mom went shopping for a wig. “I had very long hair and was very proud of it. I was more upset that I was going to lose my hair at one point than going through chemo.”

Although the highly recommended wig store had many wigs from which to choose, the atmosphere was depress-

Sasha Klein and her mother, Irma Klink.

ing. “We walked in, and it was gloomy, dark and dreary to me. We started cracking jokes so we wouldn’t cry.”

“While I was trying on a wig, I said to Mom: ‘Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a cool one-stop-shop – like a Sephora – for people going through cancer?’ She said, ‘Oh my God, we need to create a Sephora for cancer patients!’”

Cure and Company has been open a few months. “We’ve seen all ages, from a 17-year old to an 80 year-old. We understand when someone tells us their hair hurts or how their skin gets so dry, or how a 30 year-old woman can have hot flashes.”

The store has the look of a chic boutique with its hot pink velvet couch and chandeliers and stocks mastectomy bras and bathing suits, Lindi Skin Products, wigs, hats, prosthesis and

more. It also has a spa room. “We have everything here that helped us,” said Sasha.

Patients get pampered. They receive a hand massage, a wig sitting, makeup and have coffee while hanging out. “We book our clients for 45 minutes to an hour because we want to give them one-on-one time.”

Sasha gives free facials, and Irma teaches how to make a turban and how to draw eyebrows. “When you look good, you’re ultimately going to feel better. When you feel better, it trickles down to everyone around you. It turns into a little party when women bring their friends.”

Irma and Sasha give helpful hints about organizations, websites and how to make things easier while going through chemo. They also get useful information from clients such as an organization that cleans your home while you undergo treatment.

Often, people come in just to talk.

“One of our client’s husbands came in and broke down crying. He said, ‘Thank you so much for helping my wife.’ That made me cry – it was the best feeling in the world,” shared Sasha.

Sasha and Irma’s Cure and Company is more than a boutique. “People open up when we share our experiences. We convey personal stories on how we went through it, and how we were helped. It’s brought me closer to my husband and closer to God,” said Sasha.

Cure and Company is located in Sugar Land near First Colony Mall.

“When you look good, you’re ultimately going to feel better. When you feel better, it trickles down to everyone around you.” – Sasha Klein 40

OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

www.absolutelybrazos.com l OCTOBER 2013

41

FOCUS ON THE CURE Lowering Your Risk of Breast Cancer

B

reast cancer is the second most common cancer among women, second only to lung cancer. One in eight women is expected to develop breast cancer in her lifetime, and a recent survey by the Society for Women’s Health Research found that 22 percent of women named breast cancer as the disease they fear most. The specter of breast cancer makes it no surprise that women are eager to seek various ways to reduce their risks of developing this potentially deadly disease.

Though cancer treatments continue to evolve, there remains no cure for breast cancer or any other types of cancer. However, there are steps men and women can take to reduce their risks of developing breast cancer. In fact, the National Cancer Institute says avoiding breast cancer risk factors is the best path to prevention.

Avoid exposure to radiation. Repeated exposure to radiation therapy used to treat illnesses like Hodgkin’s disease can increase a person’s risk of breast cancer.

Maintain a healthy weight. Obesity increases the risk of breast cancer, particularly in postmenopausal women.

Get your exercise. Exercising four or more hours a week can lower breast cancer risk. Exercise need not be heavy lifting at the gym. Any moderate physical activity, from cycling to walking, can be effective.

Eat a low-fat diet. The Women’s Intervention Nutrition Study from the National Cancer Institute found that the highest rate of breast cancer reduction was among a group of women who ate a low-fat diet.

Reduce alcohol consumption.

Various studies have indicated that women who drink alcoholic beverages may develop cancer at a higher rate.

Women who consume two to five drinks daily have a greater risk of developing breast cancer than those who abstain from alcohol.

Weigh the risks of hormone replacement therapy. There are mixed reviews on hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, for postmenopausal women.

There may be a link between long-term HRT and breast cancer, particularly when estrogen and progesterone are used in combination.

Use of SERMs and aromatase inhibitors. Selective estrogen receptor

modulators, or SERMs, are drugs that act like estrogen on some bodily tissues but block the effect of estrogen on other tissues. Aromatase inhibitors decrease the amount of estrogen made by the body. Women with a high risk of breast cancer may benefit from taking a SERM or aromatase inhibitor.

Increase fruit and vegetable consumption. Carotenoids are cancer-protective pigments found in a vast number of fruits and vegetables. Researchers at New York University found women who had higher blood carotenoid levels had a significantly smaller risk of breast cancer than women with lower levels.

Go sparingly on antibiotics. Only take antibiotics when they are truly needed. New evidence suggests that the more often a woman takes antibiotics, the higher her breast cancer risk.

Breastfeed your children. Lactation can suppress ovulation and the body’s production of estrogen, which has been linked to higher levels of breast cancer.

Although there is no cure for cancer, there are a number of different ways women can reduce their risks for breast cancer.

10% of October’s proceeds will go towards Breast Cancer research.

281.239.8601 Come visit our unique salon and talented stylists for a beautiful, new, you!

Luscious Massage and Spa 832.361.8358 819 3rd Street, Historic Downtown Rosenberg facebook.com/downtownstudiosalon Monday closed • Tuesday - Thursday 10am - 7pm • Friday 10am - 5pm Saturday 10am - 3pm • Sunday by appointment

42

OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

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OakBend Medical Center - New Territory

4907 Sandhill Drive, Suite A Sugar Land, TX 77479 OakBend Medical Center's Digital Mammography offers clearer, sharper images that can be easily enhanced, reducing the need to take multiple exposures. Grab your mom, your daughter, your sister, and your friend to enjoy a full special pink manicure following your annual digital breast screening. Let OakBend take care of you, inside and out!

Scan this with your smart phone to visit our website. www.oakbendmedcenter.org Connect with us.

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Purchase a one-of-a- kind 3.12 carat ruby ring with 1.75 carats of diamonds.

Don’t monkey around with your health ... or jewelry!

J Loggins Jewelers, 14015 Southwest Fwy in Sugar Land.

Call 281-242-2900; www.jloggins.com.

Wear this Benedictine Blessing Bracelet to remind yourself that you have a mission to make the world a better place. Together, we hold in prayer a future that is cancer free. Buy pink and support Breast Cancer research.

Twenty-Two Fifty Interiors, 2250 Lone Star Drive in Sugar Land Town Square. Call 281-265-2250; www.twentytwofiftyinteriors.com.

Make pink personal with the Tyler tote from Jon Hart Designs. Add initials, selected emblems or your name for a minimal charge. Also available in 14 other colors.

Shop all that Jon Hart has to offer at Luggage & Leather, 16069 City Walk Drive in Sugar Land Town Square.

Call 281-491-1811.

For the month of October, Rustic Kuts Furniture, Western Décor & Boutique will donate 10% of sales from Circle E Candles to the Breast Cancer Awareness Program.

Rustic Kuts Furniture, Western Décor & Boutique, 828 3rd Street in Historic Downtown Rosenberg.

Call 281-232-6033.

44

OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

Breast Cancer Awareness Sweaty Bands are handcrafted in the USA and feature a unique non-slip hold.

Portions of each purchase are donated to Susan G. Komen.

Southern Sister Designs, 817 Third Street in Historic Downtown Rosenberg.

Call 218.232.7737; www.southernsisterdesigns.com.

SEPTEMBER 27th - OCTOBER 6th, 2013 FREE LIVE CONCERTS WITH FAIR ADMISSION

Did You Know?

Breast cancer is a disease that claims the lives of so many people. Although many deaths cannot be prevented due to the severity and late stage of the breast cancer, early diagnosis goes a long way to improving mortality rates and sending individuals into remission faster. Knowing the symptoms of breast cancer can help women and men improve their chances of surviving the disease after diagnosis, as the earlier the disease is diagnosed, the better a person’s chance at survival.

Not every person experiences symptoms of breast cancer. That’s because, in its very early stages, breast cancer may not exhibit any symptoms, or if a tumor is present, it may be too small to detect during a breast self-exam. Furthermore, there are different types of breast cancer, each of which may have its own distinct symptoms. Some of these symptoms may mimic symptoms of more benign conditions as well, making it difficult to determine if symptoms are indicative of breast cancer or another ailment.

But even though the following symptoms will not necessarily lead to a breast cancer diagnosis, it’s still important to visit your doctor for further clarification if any of them appear.

• swelling of all or part of the breast • skin irritation or dimpling • breast pain • nipple pain or the nipple turning inward • redness, scaliness or thickening of the nipple or breast skin • a nipple discharge other than breast milk • a lump in the underarm area • changes in the size or symmetry of breasts • presence of unusual lumps

Fri: 9/27 Joe Nichols

iger

& Katie Arm

77th Annual “Celebrating Our Western Heritage”

Sat: 9/28 on Aaron Wats hnson

The Cody Jo Keane Band & Brian

Daily Activities

Sun: 9/29

DAY GO TEJavAaiNraOy Rio &

Emilio N zales y Jimmy Gon Mazz po ru El Super G

Wed: 10/2 hs The Triump

Fri: 10/4 Joe Diffie

son

& Dale Wat

FREE

ADMIS

SION Carnival to A School LL Ag’Tivity Barn ‘til 6pmKids Petting Zoo Openin on g Pony Rides Day Live Music – Texas Stage Wade Henry Show Kidz Celebration Show Livestock Exhibits Home Economics Exhibits Shopping Food

Special Events & Competitions for all Ages BBQ Cookoff Oct. 4 & 5, 2013

Sat: 10/5 n Wade Bowe

Carr Pro Rodeo PRCA Championship Rodeo Nights October 4th & 5th

Will Hoge & Twins The Rankin

PRCA Bull Riding Bash & Mutton Bustin’ Sunday, Oct. 6, 2013

Sun: 10/6 e Johnny Le

WINE EVENT

Grapes on the Brazos Sept. 27 to Oct. 6, 2013

& MANY OTHER GREAT BANDS!

October 5th

TOUGH ENOUGH TO WEAR PINK In support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month

FORT BEND COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS • 4310 Highway 36 South • Rosenberg, Texas 77471 Purchase Tickets: www.fortbendcountyfair.com or 281-342-6171 Complete Schedule of Events: www.fortbendcountyfair.com www.absolutelybrazos.com l OCTOBER 2013

45

FOCUS ON THE CURE

When Breast Cancer Hits Home

Ankur Mehta, M.D. Timeless Plastic Surgery

D

r. Ankur Mehta has accompanied breast cancer patients on their journey from diagnosis, to treatment, reconstruction and to becoming a breast cancer survivor. Even though he deals with breast cancer patients on a daily basis, he was not prepared for the news he received one day. “I remember everything about that phone call even though it was so long ago,” said Dr. Mehta. “I was a plastic surgery resident at the time and was on the way to the operating room when my dad called my cell phone. I hurriedly answered some of his questions except for his last question, which was, ‘Can you come with us to your sister’s doctor’s appointment today?’ I could sense something was not right. Then, as the words left my dad’s mouth, my heart began to pound, I sank down in a chair, shook my head in confusion and tried

46

to comprehend how my 28 year-old little sister, my free spirited, happy-golucky, beautiful little sister, could have just been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Soon after her diagnosis, this brave 28 year-old, underwent a nipple sparing mastectomy with implant reconstruction.”

It wasn’t until his sister’s journey that Dr. Mehta better understood some of the true fears, thought processes and concerns of women fighting this fight.

Dr. Mehta has spent countless hours speaking to female plastic surgeons, breast cancer patients and breast cancer survivors to better understand what the perceived consequences were in regards to different options for treatment.

Dr. Mehta always knew his sister would defeat her breast cancer, but he worried what the diagnosis and treatment would do to her strong spirit and bright aura. “My sister’s spirit only became stronger and her aura brighter!” said Dr. Mehta. The loss of a breast, such as by partial resection or mastectomy, is just the beginning of the reconstructive and emotional healing process. The female breasts are symbolic of a woman’s pride, power and self-worth. When a woman is fully confident, she will radiate from within, achieving goals and building stronger relationships with family, friends and loved ones. Many surgeons have typically been taught that the goal is to

OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

treat the cancer first, just get it out, and worry about the cosmetic aspect later. A patient, however, thinks differently about this defining characteristic of the female body – the breasts.

Although the cancer operation should never be compromised for cosmetic outcome, a harmonious balance between cancer treatment and reconstruction can be achieved.

Today, as a plastic surgeon at Timeless Plastic Surgery, Dr. Mehta has the honor of providing “concierge care” to all patients including, but not limited to, breast cancer survivors. Dr. Mehta takes his and his sister’s personal experiences and applies it to his patients by trying to understand what they desire whether related to the face, body or breasts. In regards to breast reconstruction, Dr. Mehta focuses on secondary aesthetic breast reconstruction.

Simply put, this is the art of creating a more beautiful breast after cancer removal and initial reconstruction. The main objective of secondary aesthetic breast reconstruction is to produce a more natural and proportioned counterpart to the opposite breast.

Since her diagnosis, Dr. Mehta’s sister remains cancer free, has recently gotten married and has moved to Germany where she continues to make the most of every minute of her life. “Going through this very personal journey with my sister has definitely made me a better physician,” shared Dr. Mehta.

NEWSWORTHY

Cowboy Up 2013 Partners With Texas Farm Bureau Insurance The Parks Youth Ranch Board of Directors is pleased to announce Texas Farm Bureau Insurance as the Presenting Josh Stanka, Sam Morris, Roger Camp, Pat Somers, Mark Eyring, Joe Sponsor for Cowboy Up 2013!

Chirco, Kavita Self, Shannon Bloesch, Karl Drefke and Bill Rohrbach.

Since 1952, Texas Farm Bureau has been protecting members’ moments – the big, the small and the everyday.

As part of the Texas Farm Bureau Insurance Companies, live auction and much more. their mission is twofold: to help their members manage the A variety of sponsorship and underwriting opportunities, financial risks of everyday life and successfully recover from from $250 to $10,000, are available. General admission tickany insured loss through prompt, professional and personal ets are also available for $75 each. Mosey on over for a very service based on high ethical standards and fairness; and special Wild West hoedown - y’all won’t want to miss it! to build and manage a financially strong, efficient and memFor more information on sponsorship or general admisber-oriented organization that supports the objectives and sion tickets, please visit the PYR website at www.parksygrowth goals of the Texas Farm Bureau parent organization. outhranch.org or contact Parks Youth Ranch Executive DirecKarl Drefke with Texas Farm Bureau says they are “proud tor & Cowboy Up Co-Chair, Shannon Bloesch (smbloesch@ to support the Parks Youth Ranch mission of providing an parksyouthranch.org) or Cowboy Up Co-Chair, Kavita Self emergency shelter, counseling and (kavitaself@gmail.com). life-changing services to at-risk and homeless youth in Fort Bend County.”

The Fred and Mabel R. Parks Youth Ranch (PYR) opened its doors in March 2011 to address a gap in services for homeless youth. PYR is a 20-bed emergency shelter located in Fort Bend County that is able to accommodate 10 boys and 10 girls, ABOUT ages 7 to 17, referred by Texas Department of Family and Protective Services and by the local community. Cowboy Up 2013 is scheduled for Saturday, October 12th at The Benefiting Presented by F o r t B en d J u n i o r S e r v i c e L e a g u e & George Ranch Historical Park Arena, F o r t B en d C o u n ty Ch a r i ti e s H o u st o n M e t h o d i s t Su g a r L a n d H o sp i t a l with all proceeds from the event goPreview Night ing towards meeting these needs Thursday, November 7th 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm and providing “Home for Today, Hope for Tomorrow!”

Friday, Saturday, November 8th Local support includes Fort Bend November 9th 9:00 am to 9:00 pm 9:00 am to 5:00 pm County District Attorney John Healey and his wife, Theo, as Honorary 10505 Cash Road in Stafford, Texas Co-Chairs and Fort Bend County For more information please visit Commissioner James Patterson as www.sugarplummarket.com. the event auctioneer. The unforgettable event will feature live music by This advertisement generously underwritten by absolutely! Brazos Magazine Kim and Bill Nash from Nash3, BBQ with all the fixins’, dancing, cash bar,

WILD

www.absolutelybrazos.com l OCTOBER 2013

47

OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART

Common Threads held a Back to School Drive on August 10th.

Over 800 people were serviced with clothes and backpacks.

Emma Pustejovsky and Madison Palmer helped families find back to school clothing.

BRAZOS

Helping to keep things running smoothly were a variety of volunteers including Olivia Salazar, Chrysantha Davis, Julia Chavarria, Marissa Soza, Sandra Vautrain, Morgan Loser, Eric Skinner, Noah Joe, Caroline Jennings, Madeleine Hope, Lori Salazar and Karin Loser.

Faith United Methodist church hosted Vacation Bible School for area kids in late July. This year’s theme: Kingdom Rock.

The Crusader group collected money for Faith-Full Kids as their service project of the week. Faith-Full Kids provides a backpack of food to kids on the weekends at several local schools. Karleigh Schlicht, Taylor Schooler, Erin Coco, Ally Millonzi and Anna Brooks assisted in counting money.

48

OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

Davis Stotler, Kai O’Donnell, Owen Mathis, Mackenzie Randoph and Abigail Broughton enjoyed a fun week singing, playing games and making crafts.

The Central Fort Bend Chamber conducted a Congressional Update Breakfast with Congressman Pete Olson at Del Web Sweetgrass in Richmond.

Visiting after the breakfast were friends Tim Kaminski, Kevin and Margaret Patton and Veronica Munoz.

Courtney Diepraam and Kimberly Hays attended the breakfast.

On August 29th, Calvary Episcopal School and College Prep unveiled their new library theme. This long-standing Calvary tradition was not just a simple library make-over. Librarian Mandy Casey, along with alumni and parent volunteers, transformed the standard library into a literary wonderland designed to captivate the students for the entire academic school year.

Hannah Hennessey rode into Whoville as Samantha Schmid and Donnie Fondon giggled with excitement.

absolutely! Focus Media staff enjoyed dinner at Ray’s Gourmet Country in Fulshear with advertisers and friends.

Chef Denver Kao created a spectacular menu featuring Ray’s farm to table cuisine.

Tim Kaminski and Joe Freudenberger.

Zach and Bella Irwin as Thing 1 and Thing 2.

Mary Servantes as The Cat and the Hat.

Candelario and Caron Lopez with Leena and Pravin Taneja.

Patti Parish-Kaminski and Lin Humble.

Michael Fredrickson, Laura Freudenberger, Katie Tyler and Mitch Syma.

www.absolutelybrazos.com l OCTOBER 2013

49

N E W S W O RT H Y Call For a FREE Estimate

R

dri g u e z

C O N S T R UCTION One call does it all!

Cross Creek Ranch Fall Home Tour Festival to Showcase Best in Holiday Décor

Fourteen magnificent, new model homes, each decorated with special touches for the holidays, will be open to the public during the Cross Creek Richard, Jimmy & Johnny Rodriquez Ranch Fall Home Tour Festival, OcAll Types of Remodeling tober 5th – 20th. Visitors can pick up • Bathroom/Kitchen • Concrete Work holiday decorating ideas for everything • Room Additions • Carports from wonderful dining room table set• Tile • Window tings to eye-catching stair rail arrange• Carpet Replacement ments. For three weekends, families • Wood • Roofing can tour each model home in Cross • Floors • Framing • Painting • Metal Buildings Creek Ranch, just minutes west of the Grand Parkway off FM 1093, where • Drywall • Insulation event organizers promise “a festive holiday photo opportunity in every home.”

• Fencing • Barn Restoration From creative floral and table ornaments to decorated mantles, visitors are certain to come away with a number of quick and easy holiday decorating tips.

NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL The Fall Home Tour Festival, which kicks off several October events in the RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL west Houston community, is open on Saturdays from 10 am – 6 pm and SunRichard 281-239-9521 days from noon – 5 pm. “Our design teams are working to create that one Jimmy 832-344-7721 special place in every home that will capture the essence of the holidays,” said Insured • Bonded Johhny 712-962-9475 Cross Creek Ranch General Manager Rob Bamford.

WWW.RODRIGUEZCONSTRUCTIONONLINE.COM Along with the Fall Home Tour Festival, Cross Creek Ranch will host the Art of Living Festival featuring more than 30 art vendors and food booths on Saturday, October 12th from 10 am – 4 pm. The community will also host Gorgeous Hill Country Home Site the 3rd Annual Oktoberfest Triathlon on Sunday, October Waterfront Lot in Comal County 13th followed by the 4th Annual Fulshear Scarecrow Festival on Saturday, October 19th, where families can enjoy kid-friendly games, pumpkin decorating, live music and a Just 20 minutes from stroll through a collection of full-size scarecrows.

San Antonio and These and other events along with popular amenities minutes from the and a convenient location have helped the 3,200-acre Guadalupe River in master-planned community in Fulshear consistently rank Spring Branch, this as one of the nation’s top sellers. Cross Creek Ranch 1.72 acre lot is your offers homes from the $200s from award-winning buildHill Country dream ers presented in the Houston area’s largest model home come true! collection with spacious, fully furnished homes by HighAmazing views on land Homes, Darling Homes, Lennar Homes, Newmark the hillside lot that features a meadow with waterfront along Homes, Perry Homes, Trendmaker Homes and Village Spring Creek, The Crossing at Spring Creek, an acreage home Builders. Its gated, custom-home neighborhood, The site community, is the perfect place to build your Hill Country Lakes at Cross Creek Ranch, offers homes from the getaway. The community offers $650s to $1 million with lake views from custom homeall underground utilities, paved, builders Avanti Custom Homes, Huntington Homes, Partcounty maintained roads, plus a ners in Building and Taylor Morrison Homes. A project of beautiful 10+ acre owners-only The Johnson Development Corp., Cross Creek Ranch’s park with scenic hiking trails, a approach to “sustainable” living has led to the planting swimming pool and pavilion and of more than 30,000 trees since 2006. Close to half of a playground. $89,000 its 1,000 homes are adjacent to native landscape, designated trails and parks. For more information, visit www.

For Sale By Owner crosscreektexas.com.

281.728.1204

50

OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

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By Steve Kursar

absolutely!

AUTO REVIEW

2014

JEEP CHEROKEE

T

he Jeep Cherokee is back! It’s an all new 2014 model that’s awfully sleek and stylish. It also handles likes a car instead of a rough off-roader, and it boasts amazing fuel economy for a mid-size SUV. But don’t let that fool you because it’s still a “Trail Rated” Jeep and will safely take you places that most of its competitors wouldn’t dare think of going.

Jeep introduced the first Cherokee way back in 1984 when the brand was owned by American Motors, and it continued as a successful SUV model even after Chrysler bought the brand in 1987. The original Cherokee was a boxy, rugged SUV that found itself on the cutting block when Daimler-Benz

52

bought Chrysler in 1999. The new German owners brought in the Jeep Liberty as a replacement, and the Cherokee name lived on only in foreign markets. Fast forward to 2013, and the Cherokee is back, and the Liberty is history.

Showing up in dealerships this autumn, the 2014 Cherokee shares the same platform as the popular new Dodge Dart. This car-based platform gives the new Cherokee the handling and driving comfort of a car, as well as excellent fuel economy. The base Sport model, with an MSRP of $22,995, is equipped with the 184 hp, 2.4 liter four-cylinder engine that’s mated to a nine-speed transmission delivering an estimated 31 mpg. If you need more power, opt for the 271 hp, 3.2 liter Pentastar V6 engine.

But since this is a Jeep, it must be capable of getting you through tough conditions, and it can. All new Cherokees feature the Jeep Selec-Terrain traction control system that promises you better control in difficult conditions. Just select any of the five customized modes: Auto, Snow, Sport,

OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

Sand/Mud and Rock, and the Cherokee adjusts itself to get you through safely. If you need a Cherokee that can rock crawl, then the “Trail Rated” Trail Hawk has to be on your shopping list. For less than $7,000 over the base Cherokee, the 4x4 Trail Hawk exemplifies everything that is a rugged, go anywhere Jeep. Standard equipment includes Jeep Active Drive Lock with locking rear differential, skid plates and signature red tow hooks.

Whether you need a Cherokee to get you to the mall or up a mountain, there’s one for you. I just think it’s great to have the Cherokee back on the block and on the road.

Follow Steve Kursur at KursarOnCars. blogspot.com.

J. Georges Youssef, M.D. Opens New Sugar Land Office Board certified Pulmonologist and Sleep Medicine physician Dr. J. Georges Youssef welcomes patients to his new office on Highway 6 in Sugar Land. Dr. Youssef completed Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Medicine from The Stony Brook University Hospital in New York and Pulmonary Transplant Fellowship at The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in Pennsylvania. He relocated in the Houston- Sugar Land area after 10 years of private practice in Arizona.

Dr. Youssef has admitting privileges at Memorial Hermann, The Methodist Hospital, St. Luke’s Hospital and Kindred Hospital. He has strong roots in the community and is looking forward to serving Fort Bend’s Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine needs.

Specific services provided by Dr. Youssef include: evaluation and treatment for lung diseases such as Dyspnea, COPD/Emphysema, Asthma, Pulmonary Hypertension, Pulmonary Fibrosis, Sleep Apnea, Insomnia, Fatigue and other sleep disorders, Chronic Cough and Pleural effusion; pre-operative evaluation, including lung-volume reduction surgery, Lung Transplantation and Gastric Bypass; Disability and Occupational health evaluations; minimally invasive procedures including Ultrasound Guided Bronchoscopy and Electromagnetic Navigation Bronchoscopy; Bronchial Thermoplasty for Asthma; and sleep evaluation including home and lab sleep studies.

In addition to standard tests of pulmonary function and spirometry, Dr. Youssef offers Cardio-Pulmonary Exercise and Pulmonary Stress testing. Lab services including chest x-rays, ct’s and nocturnal pulse oximetry are also available.

Dr. Youssef accepts most insurances and same day appointments are available. Call 713-781-4600 or visit 1429 Highway 6 South.

Saturdays, Sundays, and Thanksgiving Friday

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DELICIOUS

Spooky

Halloween Drink Ideas Everyone Will Love

W

hether you’re planning the ultimate Halloween bash or just want something fun to enjoy with the family, try these frightfully delicious drinks.

The Spooky Smoothie is a flavorful combination of vanilla milk and Greek yogurt, which is blended with ice and topped with whipped cream. The fun is all in the orange-tinted Limited Edition TruMoo Lowfat Vanilla Milk, so make sure to serve it in a clear glass. And ghosts will rise from the dead for the chocolaty Monster Mash Mudslide.

Both of these tasty concoctions feature TruMoo, which is made with 35 percent less total sugar than the leading chocolate and vanilla milk competitor and has no high fructose corn syrup. That’s one thing that won’t scare you this Halloween season. For more information, visit www.facebook. com/TruMooMilk.

Monster Mash Mudslide

Spooky Smoothie

Ingredients • 4 cups TruMoo Lowfat Chocolate Milk • 10 chocolate wafer cookies, coarsely broken • 1/2 cup frozen non-dairy whipped topping, thawed • 8 mini chocolate chips or mini chocolate candies (orange/brown color recommended)

Ingredients • 3 cups Limited Edition TruMoo Lowfat Vanilla Milk, orange color • 1 1/2 cups lowfat vanilla Greek yogurt • 5 cups ice cubes • 1/4 cup fat free whipped cream • Candy corn for garnish, optional

Preparation In blender, blend chocolate milk and chocolate wafer cookies until smooth. Heat mixture in saucepan or microwave until just heated through.

To serve, pour chocolate milk mixture into 4 glasses. For each serving, spoon a large, upright dollop of whipped topping to resemble a ghost. Insert chocolate chips or chocolate candies into dollop for eyes.

Serves Yield 4 servings Notes, Tips & Suggestions To enjoy a cold mudslide, do not heat in saucepan or microwave.

Serves Yield 4 servings.

Monster Mash Mudslide

54

Preparation Spooky Smoothie In blender, combine vanilla milk, yogurt and ice cubes. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.

To serve, pour into serving glasses. Top with whipped cream and candy corn.

OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

Source: Family Features. TruMoo.

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includes dinner, live music by Third Coast Swing, and auction of artwork by local artists and services from nearby businesses. Cash bar will also be available. *All proceeds will benefit Fulshear arts.

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•••••• •••• ••••

EVENTS•••••••• •••• ••

October 4th – 5th, 11 am

October 12th

Teams will fire up the pits in pursuit of the Grand Champion BBQ team title at the Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo, located at 4310 Highway 36 South in Rosenberg. Kicking off the culinary competition on Friday, teams will compete for the best pot of pinto beans, beef chili, seafood gumbo and stew. On Saturday, teams will compete in Brisket, Ribs, Chicken and Fajitas categories. Visit www.fortbendcountyfair.com.

Strap on your spurs and join Parks Youth Ranch as they party with a purpose. Presented by Texas Farm Bureau Insurance Company, the event benefits Fred and Mabel R. Parks Youth Ranch. Tickets include a scrumptious barbeque dinner, a performance by Kim and Bill Nash, dancing and a live auction. Visit www.parksyouthranch.org or call 832-390-4797.

October 5th, 9 – 11 am

October 18th, 7 pm

Join the Fort Bend County Master Gardeners in their four acres of demonstration gardens and attend an informal garden talk on Butterfly Gardening at 10 am in the Butterfly Habitat. Park in front of the Agriculture Center, located at 1402 Band Road in Rosenberg, and take one of the sidewalks to the area behind the building. Visit www.fbmg.com or call 281-341-7068.

Join neighbors and friends at a fun-filled, entertaining evening featuring art from student artists and special guest speakers at Safari Texas Ranch, located at 11627 FM 1464 in Richmond. Bid on the work of local artists and services from nearby businesses. All proceeds will benefit Arts Fulshear. Tickets include dinner and live music. Call 713-416-6837 or visit www.artsfulshear.org.

October 5th, 5:30 – 8:30 pm

October 24th, 6 – 8 pm

Enjoy all the fried catfish you can eat at the home of Terry and Lisa Raska, located at 3238 Klosterhoff Road in Rosenberg. Sit back as head fry cook Neil Banfield and his team serve Fort Bend's finest dinner! All proceeds will support L.E.A.F. For reservations, visit www.leafgrants.org or call 832-223-0334.

Fort Bend County Women’s Center and Classic Chevrolet will unveil plans for Boogie 2014 in the Classic Chevrolet Showroom at 13115 Southwest Freeway in Sugar Land. Activities will include a fashion show, Corporal Klinger Wannabe Contest, appetizers and drinks. Call 832-435-1322 or email jbreckon@fortbendwomenscenter.org by Friday, October 18th.

October 11th, 12 – 1 pm

October 26th, 9 am

Championship BBQ Cookoff

Fort Bend Master Gardeners

Lamar Educational Awards Foundation (L.E.A.F.) Fish Fry

Friends for Life Fundraiser

Cowboy Up

Young at Art Preview Dinner and Auction

Classic Boogie M*A*S*H Bash

30th Annual Texian Market Days

The Pregnancy Resource Medical Center of Fort Bend County will host its annual Friends For Life fundraiser at the Pecan Grove Plantation Country Club, located at 3000 Plantation Drive in Richmond. To reserve a seat, call 281-232-2375. Visit www.prcfortbend.org.

October 12th, 6 pm

Rosenberg Railroad Museum Presents The Circus Comes to Town Rosenberg Railroad Museum’s annual gala will feature circus-themed, live entertainment and live and silent auctions at Safari Texas, located at 11627 FM 1464 in Richmond. Proceeds from the event will support program operations for the Museum. For tickets, contact 281-342-5926 or doris. gurecky@gurecky.com. For more information, visit www.rosenbergrrmuseum. org/gala.

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Bring the whole family to discover more than 150 years of Texas history!

Texian Market Days features hands-on activities, battle re-enactments, live entertainment, food, craft vendors and more. The festival is executed by the Fort Bend County Museum Association and held on the grounds of the 480-acre George Ranch Historical Park, located at 10215 FM 762 in Richmond. Call 281-343-0218 or visit www.texianmarketdays.com.

October 26th, 10 am – 4 pm Second Annual Fall Craft Show

Committee members Joe Gurecky, Lisa Rickert, Doris Gurecky, Marcia Vogelsang and Honorary Ring Masters Nancy and Pete Olson.

OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

St. Mark’s Episcopal Church will present their second annual Fall Craft Show at 7615 FM 762 in Richmond, across from George Ranch. The family-oriented craft show will feature many home and small business vendors, as well as games and entertainment for children. Admission is free. Visit www.stmarksfortbend.org or call 281-545-1661.

absolutely!

DELICIOUS

Sweet Treats for

Halloween

H

alloween is a time for costumes and candy.

Americans spend roughly $6 billion per year on Halloween candy. After Christmas, Halloween is the country’s second-biggest commercial holiday.

Although many people like the convenience of buying bags of pre-made candy, they will not have control over the amount of sugar or the other ingredients that are being put into these confections. This Halloween, make your own sweet treats to hand out or share at Halloween festivities.

Chocolate Lollipops All it takes is a mold, heating device and some chocolate candy melts to make delicious and eyecatching homemade lollipops. A visit to the craft store will yield all of the ingredients you need. Some kits feature squirt bottles that can be filled with chocolate, heated in the microwave and then easily squirted into the candy molds.

Chocolate Bark Create a healthy and delicious mixture of ingredients by melting dark chocolate and adding in nuts, dried cranberries, raisins, sunflower seeds or anything else you can think of. Pour the mixture on a piece of wax paper and allow to harden in the refrigerator. Then, cut into chunks and enjoy.

Cake Pops A revolution in dessert, cake pops can be made in two ways. The first method is baking a cake and then crumbling it up into a bowl.

Then, a container of cake frosting is added, making the mixture moldable. The mixture is then formed into balls, which are put on lollipop sticks and dipped into melted chocolate. The second cake pop method is to purchase pans or special waffle-iron-type devices that turn batter into balls while cooking. Then, the cake balls are put on sticks and covered in frosting or chocolate.

Candied Fruit Caramel-covered apples are an autumn tradition, but you also can dip bananas into chocolate or pieces of pineapple for a pseudohealthy treat.

Source: MetroCreativeConnection.

www.absolutelybrazos.com l OCTOBER 2013

57

Mario’s

Locally Owned 33 Years

Paint & Body Shop

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Now Enrolling Private Pre-K Pre-K 1 Ages 3 & 4 Pre-K 2 Ages 4 & 5 CDA Certified Teacher

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Boutique Wines & Craft Beer New Outside Patio

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Happy hour Wed-Fri 3-7pm

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- Nelson Mandela

By Joan Frances

A LITTLE PIECE O F H I S T ORY

“It is said that no one truly knows a nation until one has been inside its jails. A nation should not be judged by how it treats its highest citizens, but its lowest ones.”

Jester State Prison Farm

W

hen settlers came to the Fort Bend County area to live, cities sprang up and the government was orchestrated. Post offices, hotels, saloons and the mercantile grew to accommodate the growing community. With the good, came the bad. Law enforcement was created, and prisons were built to house the criminals. In 1885 and one of the oldest facilities in the area, Jester State Prison Farm opened.

Originally known as the Harlem Plantation or Harlem Prison Farm, it was the second prison farm purchased, owned and run by the State of Texas.

For $25,000, the state contracted 2,500 acres of land from William Guion and harvested sugar cane through the railroad using convict labor. This farm was so successful that by 1890, it was out of debt and valued at $200,000.

R.J. Ransom was in charge of the prison until his death in 1895. Two other tracts of land were started and named Harlem I Unit and Harlem II Unit. In 1908, the state purchased the

Riddick Plantation next door to the Harlem Property. By 1925, the prison farm encompassed 5,005 acres of land with 260 prisoners. They worked the sugar plantation and also a brick and garment plant, all very successful.

In the 1950s, the name of the facility was changed to Jester State Prison Farm for the Governor Beauford H. Jester. Today, they are individually referred to as Jester I Unit, Carol Vance Unit (Jester II), Jester III Unit and Jester IV Unit.

Early prison life was deplorable.

Prison scandals, unsanitary living conditions and abuse were perpetrated by guards and prison officials. Mysterious deaths of convicts were common knowledge. In 1927, a new law was adopted which permitted a nine member Texas Prison Board to oversee the prisons, to set policy and to hire a general manager to direct the system. The first brick building on the premises was built in 1933, which improved living conditions.

In 1996, Carol Vance, chairperson

Old buildings of the Harlem Prison Farm.

60

OCTOBER 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

of the Texas Board of Criminal Justice, requested state officials to implement the InnerChange Freedom Initiative program. Founded by Charles Colson of the Prison Fellowship Ministries, these faith-based rehabilitation sessions are devoted to those inmates classified at the minimum security custody level and who are expected to be released within three years. Fifteenhour days are spent studying the Bible and Christian beliefs. The program is operated with no additional cost to the Texas taxpayers.

The World Voice in the Wilderness Ministries, a group of motorcycle riders, came to Richmond to reach out to the prisoners and other neglected and forgotten people at the Vance Unit.

They preached the ministry and gave advice during a Prison Crusade. Johnny Moffitt, the director of this program, is committed to assisting prisoners all over the state to find a spiritual path to follow before leaving confinement.

Prisoners refer to Vance as a “Cadillac Unit,” and visitors remark that it feels more like a Bible College than a prison. On September 15, 1999, the Jester II Unit was officially renamed the Carol Vance Unit in honor of this innovative woman who had the compassion to encourage criminals to prepare for leaving prison with strong Christian and moral beliefs.

Today, Jester Prison Farm is a very different place. What once was 5,000 acres of working farm land now is just 960 acres surrounding the prison walls. Homes, schools and businesses fill the acreage with construction crews continuing to build.

INSIDE BACK

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