Serving Richmond, Rosenberg, Fulshear & Needville2022OCTOBERSEPTEMBER/ Focus on the Cure Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar MammogramsLand Save Lives Focus Non-Profitson Home & Hearth
At Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center, we treat every aspect of your cancer. Leading oncologists work with our specialists across disciplines to minimize cancer’s effects on major organs. One comprehensive team — dedicated to your individual care — uses the latest research, treatments and technology to stop your cancer. From infusion and clinical trials to surgery and reconstruction, our innovative care is available in Sugar Land. That’s the difference between practicing medicine and leading it. Your health and safety are our priority. We are taking every necessary precaution to keep you safe. Medical Center
THERE’S A BETTER APPROACH TO CANCER CARE in Sugar Land
houstonmethodist.org/cancer-sl281.274.7500 The Woodlands B aytownWillowbrookSugarLand Clear Lake Katy-West Houston Tex as
Pol. Ad. Pd. For by Supporters of Trever Nehls.
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One hundred percent pro-business, Trever believes government should support businesses, the lifeblood of our economy. As County Judge, he will work directly with business to streamline burdensome government regulation and processes making Fort Bend a sought-after county to attract business growth and investment.
ith a life dedicated to service since the age of 19 in the US Army National Guard defending our freedom in Iraq, Afghanistan and Kuwait and protecting our citizens as a law enforcement professional in Fort Bend, Colonel Trever Nehls now stands ready to lead Fort Bend as County Judge.
Cutting waste, unnecessary spending and lowering the tax burden on Fort Bend residents is a priority for Trever. As County Judge, he will use his experience managing county and corporate budgets to streamline expenses.
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The Nehls family: Parker, Madison, Kerri, Trever and Wyatt.
My goal is to unite Fort Bend residents and officials with an aim to work towards a Fort Bend future. It’s my extensive leadership experience that will bring that goal to fruition. We must work together in the best interest of Fort Bend County.”
A Safe, Secure Community Serving 30 years in law enforcement and as the former Fort Bend County Precinct 4 Constable, Trever knows what it takes to make Fort Bend County safe. As County Judge, he will use his decades of experience to make certain our law enforcement professionals have the resources they need to keep our community safe.
ElectionDayNov8th
HHHHH Pro-Business
Cutting Unnecessary Spending
Early Voting: October 24th – November 4th www.TreverNehls.com
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SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com2 ON THE COVER: Clive Shkedy, M.D., Brendolyn Herbert, Michelle O’Shea, M.D., Sindhu Nair, M.D., Natasha Bradley and Patrick Prath, M.D. Photo by Kelley Sweet Photography. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 VOLUME 10 | NUMBER 5 {COVER STORY} {Feature} 10 absolutely! BRAZOS CARES ABOUT COMMUNITY It’s back to fall fun in Brazos, and we talked with some of our local non-profits to see what is on their calendars for the next few months. We share their highlights and upcoming events, so get out your calendars and get ready to be out and about in the heart of Brazos! 24 FOCUS ON THE CURE Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a great time to educate yourself and your loved ones about breast cancer awareness and detection. 30 HOME & HEARTH Tips and resources to turn your house into your dream home. 36 SCARY GOOD Healthy Halloween recipes for your kids {Newsworthy} 9 FRIENDS OF GEORGE MEMORIAL LIBRARY Plan Book Sale for Libraries’ Anniversary Celebration 23 CULLINAN CONSERVANCYPARK Announces 2022 Photo Contest 32 FORT BEND COUNTY FAIR 2022 Entertainment Lineup 33 LIBRARIES SPECIAL-EDITIONRELEASECARD For 75th Anniversary 34 CITY OF RICHMOND First Fridays Continue with New Location and Hours 38 MEMORIAL HERMANN SUGAR LAND Holds Interactive Workshop with Area Students FORT BEND COUNTY FAIR Queen Candidates’ Enrichment Day 6 HOUSTON METHODIST BREAST CARE CENTER AT SUGAR MammogramsLANDSaveLives Featuring a spa-like environment that helps patients feel comfortable and at ease, Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land offers the full continuum of care –from diagnosis to treatment and beyond – all conveniently located in one place. {Column} 28 FORT BEND STRONG Why September is My Favorite Month 39 AUTO REVIEW 2022 Chevrolet Silverado {Historic Downtown} 32 ROSENBERG {In Every Issue} 4 EXCLAMATION POINTS! 35 OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART OF BRAZOS Clive Shkedy, M.D.,Brendolyn Herbert, Michelle O’Shea, M.D., Natasha Bradley and Patrick Prath, M.D. Photo by Kelley Sweet Photography. CONTRIBUTORS The PeteHonorableOlson PageContributor2828 Steve Kursar Auto Enthusiast Page 39 39
POLITICAL FOR BY RAY AGUILAR CAMPAIGN, JOHANNA COMPEAN, TREASURER.
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Accessible, Responsible Governance
Establishing a long-term plan that will ensure our mobility and drainage infrastructure is adequately prepared for both growth and weather emergencies is a priority for Ray.
“I’ve been to every city in this county and served in different capacities from delivering meals to seniors, bringing supplies to flood victims, to building young leaders through chamber leadership programs. I truly give a damn. As a Commissioner, I can find out what the need is, have the conversation and do it. And that makes a difference in people’s lives. That’s a heartfelt concern for me – to make a difference – and as Commissioner for Precinct 4, I can make a difference.”
Alex, Diana and Ray Aguilar with Sara and Nathan Hackley.
“As a Commissioner, I’m my constituents’ employee – I work for them, so listening to their concerns and needs is my job. When I say I’m going to do something, I’m going to do it. I believe in being accessible and having open lines of communication. My door will be open, and if a citizen has a concern and can’t come to the office, we’ll go to them.”
“My vision is to be a collaborator – to be a resource. I will bring people together regardless of politics. My vision for Precinct 4 is to inspire people to go back to taking care of each other – not to be polarized by a party. I believe in a future that is all inclusive, consistently strategic and delivered with excellence – by partnering with the people.”
Making a Difference
Public Safety Ray will work closely with our first responders to provide them with the tools, skills, equipment and fair compensation they require to best serve and protect our community and develop positive relationships in our neighborhoods.
Taxes & Spending
www.rayforfortbend.comEarly Voting: October 24th – November 4th M E E T R A Y P R I O R I T I E S ElectionDayNov8th
A Collaborative Vision
Eliminating unnecessary spending and utilizing grant funds most efficiently in our communities is a priority for Ray. He believes in putting tax dollars where it belongs – investing in our communities. Preparing for the Future
Absolutely yours, Kay Garrett
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com4 EXCLAMATION POINTS! Associate Publisher, KAY GARRETT absolutely! Brazos eZine is published by absolutely! focus media, P. O. Box 1253, Richmond, Texas 77406. Copyright © 2022 by abso lutely! focus media. All rights reserved. Reproduction without per mission is strictly prohibited. absolutely! Brazos eZine does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial, nor do the publishers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. absolutely! Brazos eZine welcomes editorial submissions from its readers. 281.728.1204 WWW.ABSOLUTELYBRAZOS.COMabsolutely!focusmediaP.O.Box1253Richmond,Texas77406 Vol. 10 No. SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER5 2022 PUBLISHER Patti Parish-Kaminski ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Kay Garrett ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Gena Horak ART DIRECTOR Grace Belleza WEB DESIGNER JOBpage Graphics SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Natalee Moore CONTRIBUTORS Jeffrey M. Kralik, Ph.D. Steve Kursar The Honorable Pete Olson ADVERTISING INQUIRIES Kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS Patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com Free Subscription. Sign up at www.absolutelybrazos.com Publishedby READER’S FEEDBACK Hello! My daughter, Caytlin Handley, is shown several times in the article on Texana Cafe. The article is wonder ful and we thank you for featuring this very important place that gives our young adult children a safe place to learn valuable skills and be contributing members of the community. Many thanks! Carey Handley It’s Harvest Time Who is ready to enjoy some cooler temps and a crisp chill in the air? After the summer we have experienced, I am more than ready. I am ready for fall football, shorter sunlit days, cooler evenings, the changing colors of the leaves, and of course, my all-time favorite; pumpkin spice-flavored treats that are found everywhere during this sea son. Fall marks a time of magnificent seasonal changes. Take a minute to appreciate the beauty of harvest time! On the cover of this issue is Houston Meth odist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land stress ing the importance of getting your annual mam mogram. Teamwork and compassion enable the Houston Methodist Breast Care Center to help women overcome their cancer diagnoses. The heart of the Houston Methodist Breast Care team is an experienced, multi-disciplinary team that works together to develop an individualized care plan that meets each patient’s unique needs. The message is clear: Don’t put off your mammogram. Again this year we are featuring our Focus on Non-Profits section. Fort Bend County has so many great non-profits that benefit our community. Please check out this section on page 10 to see how you can get involved, donate or become a sponsor. Our non-profits truly are the heart of Fort Bend. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Our Focus on the Cure section has some informative articles to help educate you and your loved ones about aware ness, detection and treatment options available in our community.
Enjoying harvest time in Fort Bend County is easy! Festivals and events abound this time of year, and one of my favorites is the Fort Bend County Fair. It’s a full ten days of rodeo fun, entertainment and activities for all ages. The Needville Har vest Fest is another great weekend event and family friendly. If you are looking to support one of the many non-profits in the area, see our calendar listing for up coming events. Your support is greatly appreciated by each organization. I hope you will take full advantage of all the entertainment and events right here in our BrazosDon’tcommunity!forgettovote for your Brazos Favorites at www.absolutelybrazos.com. I look forward to seeing everyone out and about in Brazos!
kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com
Diana Neely and Kay Garrett enjoyed a delicious lunch at the Texana Cafe’ in Fulshear, a nonprofit serving exceptional food from exceptional people.
• Established an efficient online process to order vital records • Consistently operated the office under budget • Safeguarded records through digitization projects • Protected citizen’s homes through the free Property Fraud Alert program • Established online appointments and ability to view wait times per location • Conducted process improvements on every level in the organization • Established priority services for veterans and senior citizens Pol Ad Paid for by the Laura Richard Campaign, Doris Gurecky, Treasurer Early Voting: Monday, October 24th to Friday, November 4th Election Day: November 8th “My mission is to continue to provide excellent customer service while being vigilant and efficient with your tax payer dollars.” ~ Laura Richard, Fort Bend County Clerk “ The People’s Clerk ” The Richard Family: Trey, Laura, Maggie and Katie. lrichard@lauraforcountyclerk.com | www.LauraforCountyClerk.com@LauraRichardForCountyClerk As Your County Clerk, Laura has:
compassionate,” said Herbert. “She has such great relationship skills; she really becomes your friend. She put me at ease from the very first day and made herself accessible to answer any questions I had throughout my treatments.”Herberthad surgery in late March to remove her tumor and surrounding lymph nodes. “I was up and out walking the next day, trying to get my exercise in,” she Hebertsaid.later began 24 radiation treatments with board-certified radiation oncologist Clive Shkedy, M.D. and completed those sessions in early July. She continues to see Sindhu Nair, M.D., board-certified hematologist-oncologist with Houston Methodist Oncology Partners at Sugar Land, for ongoing care.
“I never expected to get that news,” Herbert said of her diagnosis. “It was a bigFortunately,shock.” both Herbert and Bradley had a full team of experts by their side – the physicians, nurses and staff at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. Herbert skipped her annual mammograms during the COVID-19 pandemic. But in early 2022, she decided it was safe to return to the hospital. When her exam revealed a lump in her breast, Herbert was referred to Michelle O’Shea, M.D., board-certified surgeon with Houston Methodist Breast Surgery Partners at Sugar Land, for further evaluation. A follow-up MRI discovered another, smaller lump, though a biopsy later determined that only the first one was cancerous.Herbert was scared, but O’Shea gave her strength. “Dr. O’Shea is so Compassionate,PersonalCare Collaborative Approach is Powerful by Kelley Sweet Photography
COVER STORY Photos
After diagnosis and throughout treatment, team members share information and ideas to ensure that every aspect of care is being considered and included. Along the way, physicians and staff provide ongoing guidance and help, with specially trained nurse
Sindhu Nair, M.D., Brendolyn Herbert, Clive Shkedy, M.D., Michelle O’Shea, M.D., Natasha Bradley and Patrick Prath, M.D.
Mammograms
“The heart of the Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land is an experienced, multi-disciplinary team that works together to develop individualized care plans that meet each patient’s unique needs,” said O’Shea. “This includes everything from surgery, radiation and chemotherapy to nutrition, physical therapy, emotional support, financial assistance and a survivorship program.”
Save Lives
eamwork and compassion enable the Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land to help two local women overcome their cancer diagnoses.
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Brendolyn Herbert was in good health. She exercised every day and watched her diet. With no family history of breast cancer, she never worried that it might one day impact herNatashalife. Bradley was healthy, too, and like Herbert, she had no family history of breast cancer. But breast cancer found both women, and like so many others, they quickly found themselves in a fight for their lives.
“It’s been a journey, but I’ve been fortunate to be surrounded by people who are so caring,” she said. “Everyone at Houston Methodist Sugar Land treated me like royalty, and I will always love them for that. They treated me, the person, rather than just my specific cancer, and this made the difference for me.”
Those specialists are supported by the latest and most sophisticated 3-D mammography technology and fellowshiptrained breast imaging radiologists.
navigator Rose Gonzales facilitating appointment scheduling, serving as an information resource and connecting patients to valuable services.
“Our collaborative approach is powerful,” said Shkedy. “It is entirely possible to defeat breast cancer, but you can’t do it alone. It takes a team of dedicated people working together. From that first moment of diagnosis, we are standing by our patients’ sides to help them regain their health and rebuild their lives.”
“Having everything a patient needs under one roof is a major benefit for our patients and gives us an advantage in diagnosing breast cancer at the earliest stages, which provides the best chance for complete recovery – all at one location close to home,” said Nair.
Clive Shkedy, M.D., Patrick Prath, M.D., Natasha Bradley and Michelle O’Shea, M.D.
Natasha Bradley had gone in for a well-woman checkup in late September 2021, and had her first-ever mammogram. She had noticed changes in her breast months before but assumed that they weren’t serious.
In addition to comprehensive care, Houston Methodist Sugar Land is accessible and convenient. Everything a patient needs is available on the hospital’s campus with easy access and free parking.
So, Bradley underwent two different regimens of chemotherapy with board-certified hematologist-oncologist
The Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land offers the full continuum of care –from diagnosis to treatment and beyond – all conveniently located in one place. Cancer-Free and Feeling Good
From Screening to Treatment –All Under One Roof
When her care team reviewed the details of her breast cancer, they confirmed that starting treatment with chemotherapy would protect her survival from an aggressive plum-sized tumor and potentially allow her breast to be saved by shrinking the tumor before surgery.
Patrick Prath, M.D., one prior to the new year and one after.
The Breast Care Center’s spa-like environment helps patients feel comfortable and at ease.
The decision to finally seek a doctor’s opinion saved her life – because by the time of her mammogram, her cancer had progressed to Stage 3. “Everything moved very quickly after that diagnosis,” said Bradley.
Both Herbert and Bradley have a strong message for other women: Don’t Clive Shkedy, M.D., Brendolyn Herbert and Michelle O’Shea, M.D. put off your annual mammogram.
To schedule a mammogram at the Breast Care Center, call 281.805.9103 , or go to houstonmethodist.org/breastcare-sl .
“No matter what’s going on in the world or what you have going on in your life, get your mammogram done every year,” said Herbert. “Early detection will save your life.” and staff at the Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center at Sugar Land.
“I would recommend Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center at Sugar Land to anyone,” she said. “The doctors and nurses all treated me so well. Everyone was just phenomenal, so kind and empathetic. “Best of all, I am cancer-free. I feel like a new woman now,” she said.
“At the beginning of that second regimen of chemotherapy, Dr. Prath told me that the tumor had basically disappeared,” said Bradley. “I couldn’t believeChemotherapyit.” was challenging, but her care team made it as easy as possible. “Dr. Prath was amazing,” she said. “He would come in and check on me, and he was always so compassionate.”AftergivingBradley’s body a chance to recover from chemotherapy, O’Shea removed what was left of the tumor –a growth now roughly the size of a pin head – along with nearby lymph nodes and other tissue during surgery. Two weeks later, Bradley began radiation therapy.Eventually, she would receive 35 radiation treatments with Shkedy, one every day, five days a week, for seven weeks, ending in late July.
“Make sure you go and have your annual check-up,” said Bradley. “Don’t self-diagnose like I did.”
Patients benefit from: • A calm, spa-like setting including robes and private changing rooms • Complimentary, reserved parking conveniently located in Sweetwater parking garage • A dedicated team that communicates effectively and coordinates care efficiently, which allows patients to begin treatment immediately • Full-time breast radiologists dedicated exclusively to breast care • A full-time, dedicated oncology nurse navigator to help guide patients and their families through the entire treatment process • Full-service, coordinated care with the physicians
The Message is Clear: Don’t Put Off Your Mammogram
“Cancer screening guidelines recommend an annual mammogram for women ages 40 and above,” said Prath. “Getting a mammogram is an important part of good breast health management and should be part of your health care priorities.”
Donations of used books, DVDs, tapes and CDs are always welcome, and may be taken to the library during regular busi ness hours. All contributions are tax-deductible. Membership applications will be available for people who would like to join the Friends of George Memorial Library.
People who love books, people who love bargains, and peo ple who need to get rid of some spare change will find a lot in common at the Friends of the Library Book Sale, where they will discover adult and children’s books, magazines, DVDs, videos and much more -- all at prices that are hard to beat!
The Friends of the George Memorial Library will also be re leasing a commemorative book bag for the library system’s 75th anniversary. These special-edition, reusable book bags will be available for $3.
In conjunction with Fort Bend County Libraries’ (FBCL) 75th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday, October 8th, the Friends of the George Memorial Library will have a major Book Sale from 10 AM to 2 PM, at the front entrance of the library, located at 1001 Golfview in Richmond.
Fort Bend County Libraries’ 75th Anniversary Celebration will take place from 10 AM to 3 PM, on Saturday, October 8th, at George Memorial Library in Richmond. Featuring an excit ing line-up of performances and exhibits, the event will have free activities and fun for the whole family in the Bohachevsky Gallery and in the Jodie E. Stavinoha Amphitheater behind the library.The complete schedule of events can be found on the Fort Bend County Libraries website, www.fortbend.lib.tx.us, or on the FBCL Facebook page. The event is made possible by the Friends of the George Memorial Library. The event and its activities are free and open to the public. For more information, visit www.fortbend.lib.tx.us or call the library system’s Communications Office at 281-6334734.
Friends of George Memorial Library Plan Book Sale for Libraries’ Anniversary Celebration
NEWSWORTHY
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l 9 Where Children Learn and www.gbkidsacademy.comGrow twkaminski@sbcglobal.net 281-239-2110814 FM Richmond297777469 (From Williams, Thomas, Carter & Phelan Elementary)thruMondayFriday6:30amto6pmRegistration Fee With this ad. Must be registered by October 31, 2022. Supply fee and security deposit not included in special. ToddlersInfants 3 & 4 yr. old Full Day Pre-K Programs K–5th ProgramsAfter-SchoolforPick-UpNowRegisteringforFall $75 OFF
Proceeds from the book sales and annual membership dues help to underwrite the costs of special programming and vari ous cultural events at the libraries.
About the FBCL 75th Anniversary Celebration
ADVERTORIAL SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com10 F all means back to school and back to fall fun with community events. So, what’s happening with our valued community organizations this fall? What are their plans for the coming months, and what fun things can we add to our fall calendar?Wereached out to several local organizations to find out what fun and fabulous activities are on their fall calendars, and most importantly, how we as a community can support their efforts. In this special feature, absolutely! Brazos Cares About Community, we highlight several local non-profits and share a calendar of upcoming events. We hope to see you out and about in Brazos doing what we all do best – supporting our community while having a great time!
ADVERTORIAL SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l 11
@absolutelybrazos Fort Bend Junior Service League and Sponsors “Jingle All the Way” to the 2022 Sugar Plum Market T he Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) and Memorial Hermann Sugar Land (MHSL) invite the community to join them as they “Jingle All the Way” into the holiday season during the 2022 Sugar Plum Market. This year’s market will again be held at the Stafford Centre Perform ing Arts Theatre and Convention Cen ter, November 3rd – 5th, with a special preview night to be held the evening of November 2nd.
FBJSL is grateful to the commu nity for supporting their charitable efforts through the Market. In addi tion to their title sponsor MHSL, FB JSL is pleased to recognize other no table sponsors, including: the City of Stafford, Sterling McCall Toyota Fort Bend, Amy & Gary Becker Foundation, Kendra Scott, H-E-B, The Sansone Group at RE/MAX Fine Properties, The Audra O’Neal Team, Trustmark National Bank, PB&J Pavement Mar keting, Inc., Stewart Title, Allen Boone Humphries Robinson LLP, Sugar Land Town Square, Cardinal Realty Man agement, J Squared Interior Designs, Legacy Ford, Molson Coors Beverage Company, and Pamela Printing.
Last year’s Sugar Plum Market raised a record-breaking $375,000, which benefited 30 charitable organi zations in Fort Bend County.
Sponsorship and underwriting op portunities for the Market are still available to both businesses and indi viduals. The Market is also seeking do nations for their Premium Raffle. Visit www.sugarplummarket.com for more information. For the latest news and updates, follow @sugarplummarket on Facebook and Instagram. See ad on page 19.
ADVERTORIAL SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com12
. See ad on page 15.
The newest expansion of autism services is in Fulshear where the Chil dren’s Center for Autism quietly began serving children at their third location in the summer of 2020. The program has their main location in Rosenberg and a second location in Sugar Land.
See ad on
Cast offers a theatrical season every year from January to October with five shows, including but not limited to melodramas, thrillers, dramas, historical and comedies, as well as a separate Christmas production that runs for the first three weeks of December. Single tickets are available for each production, with discounts for seniors, students and groups of 20 or more. Season tickets and flex passes are also available. For more information, visit www.casttheatrical.com, call 832-8893808 or email boxoffice@casttheatrical.com
Fort Bend County’s longest-running community theatre provides an environ ment where friends and families work together on all aspects of production, where patrons of all ages enjoy attending theatre productions together, and where actors and volunteers of all ethnic backgrounds, ages and experiences work together and learn from each other. The theater empowers the community by holding all audi tions open to the public and providing numerous volunteer opportunities for all skill types: Box Office, Costumes, Hair and Make-Up, Lighting and Sound Opera tors, Props, Set-Construction, Props and Stage Management
T exana Center has expanded its au tism services significantly over the last 17 years. Now with over 10 unique programs, there is an option for almost everyone and any age to help them un lock their potential.
AutismExpandingCenter:ServicestoMeetNeeds
ADVERTORIAL SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l 13
Cast Theatrical Theatre in Downtown Rosenberg K nown as “the best-hidden gem in historic downtown Rosenberg,” Cast The atrical Company continues to enrich the lives of Fort Bend County and sur rounding areas with high-quality theatrical productions. Established in 1989, Cast was founded by Bill Long and a small troupe of actors who provided the opportu nity for a local outlet for performing arts and involvement in Rosenberg. Located on the second story of The Vogelsang Antique Emporium, the charming black-box theater is known for its top-tier acting and intimate atmosphere.
Texana
The Children’s Center for Autism typi cally serves children ages 3-8, using applied behavior analysis treatment. An individualized treatment plan is created by a Licensed Board Certified Behavior Analyst to teach the child how to interact and learn from their family, community and educational en vironments.TheCenter for Advancement is the latest program created by Texana and provides classes and training for young adults with autism and/or intellectual disabilities. Classes include Social Connections Club; Computer classes for skills like coding and video editing; dance classes teaching various styles of dance; and art classes where students can create wood art pieces that can be displayed in their home. This program is all about letting students explore their strengths and prepare them for independent living and employment in ourTexanacommunity.Fulshear campus is also home to the ever popular Texana Café, a retail-training center where students can get hands-on training as well as learn to make and serve exceptional food and coffee. The Café is open to the public Monday to Friday 8 am to 3 pm. For more information and other pro grams, visit www.texanacenter.com or email info@texanacenter.com. page 17.
ADVERTORIAL SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com14
Hands-On, Minds-On Learning Opportunities Onsite and Beyond
amed “2019 Best Local Museum” by Fort Bend Star and listed as one of Sugar Land’s top attractions by TripAdvisor, Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center – A Very Special Project of Children’s Museum Houston, is a Playground for Your Mind™. It is dedicated to trans forming communities through innovative, child-centered learning.Converting the historic Imperial Sugar mill into a museum for the community, the Discovery Center serves families with children ages 12 and younger by present ing a wide array of learning opportunities through ex hibits and special events all year round. Last year, the Discovery Center welcomed more than 60,000 visitors of whom more than 6,600 received free admission through the “Open Doors” program, which ensures access to lowincome families. The Discovery Center also served an ad ditional 6,400 people through its extensive afterschool and parenting outreach programs delivered in schools, com munity centers and events all around Fort Bend. The Discovery Center houses five exhibits which use Building Blocks for Learning rubric, ensuring alignment with national learning standards and 21st century skills.
Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center Enriches Fort Bend Families with
See ad on page 11.
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Kidtropolis, USA focuses on civic engagement, economics, math and literacy; How Does it Work? explores physics and simple machines; Amazingly Immature, based on the best-selling KLUTZ® book series, fosters STEM learning through quirky challenges; Cum Yah Gullah, created in partnership with Penn Center, explores African American culture of the Sea Islands of Georgia and South Carolina; and Tot*Spot provides developmentally appropriate expe riences for infants and toddlers. Get involved by visiting www.childrensdiscoveryfb.org Support the Discovery Center by donating, volunteering or becoming a member.
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l 15 1909 Avenue G, Rosenberg, TX 77471 Historic Downtown Rosenberg Box Office: CASTwww.casttheatrical.com832.889.3808THEATRICAL COMPANY
CAST performs in the WM Long Theater, named after founder Bill Long, within the historic Vogelsang Building.
Live Community Theater in Fort Bend County Since 1989 CAST is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit, theatre arts organization producing live stage productions in Rosenberg for local and wider audiences in Greater Fort Bend County and surrounding areas. CAST has been Rosenberg’s resident community arts organization since 1989, founded by a small troupe of amateur actors, whose vision was to provide easy access to theatrical productions for the enjoyment of the local community and visitors to Rosenberg.
ADVERTORIAL SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com16 927 3rd Street, www.fortbendhope.orgRosenberg NeverLearningWhereEnds! Call Today to 346.702.3806Volunteer! ESL for Adults Afterschool Program 1st - 6th GED Class Citizenship Course Email: leslie@fortbendhope.org
Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital Announced as Healthy Lifestyles
ReiningHorsemanshipTherapeuticStrength
Presenting Sponsor of 2022 Picnic for the Park C ullinan Park Conservancy is proud to announce Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital as the 2022 Presenting Sponsor for Picnic for the Park, sched uled October 7th, 2022, at 11:30 AM. The event will be held at River Pointe Church and proudly presents longtime supporters and advocates of Cullinan Park, Doug and Susie Goff, with the Nina Cullinan Award.
See ad on page 12.
By partnering with horses, Rein ing Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship (RSTH) helps people re alize their individual potential through customized equine assisted services. Reining Strength is a non-profit in Fort Bend County and a Premier Accredited Center through the Pro fessional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International. They provide therapeutic horsemanship programs for people ages two through adults, who have physical, cognitive, social or emotional needs. There are a wide variety of people who can benefit from therapeutic horsemanship. They include, but are not limited to, indi viduals with a diagnosis of Anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, CVA or Stroke, Down Syndrome, Intellectual Disabilities, Learning Dis abilities, Multiple Sclerosis, PTSD, Spina Bifida, Traumatic Brain Injury and various Genetic Syndromes.
In an effort to promote healthy lifestyles in our community, Memorial Hermann has partnered with Cullinan Park to support continued fundraising to enhance Cullinan Park and the outdoor nature experience the park offers to all. Studies show that being outdoors can improve health both physically and mentally, and the medical providers at Memorial Hermann want to support and promote outdoor experiences in nature to our community as a healthy lifestyle.
For more information about Cullinan Park or to sponsor Picnic for the Park, please visit www.cullinanparkconservancy.org.
The theme for the presentation will be “Get Outside!” Memorial Hermann ad ministrators and medical professionals will provide an exciting array of healthy information about living in and discovering nature and the wonder it provides us all. The community is invited to join us at the 6th annual Picnic for the Park and to get outside at Cullinan Park!
Reining Strength offers group and private riding lessons. Client lessons are taught by a Certified PATH Inter national Instructor and are available Monday thru Friday. The fall session starts September 12, 2022.
Reining Strength loves volunteers! They are the backbone of Reining Strength. You’ll never find a more re warding volunteer opportunity. There are so many ways to help – volunteer during lessons, help in the office or join the Derby Day Party commit tee. The best way to learn about what RSTH does is to come see them in ac tion. Schedule a tour at the Reining Strength facility, located at 7126 FM 359 Road in Richmond, Texas, 77406, or visit the RSTH website for more in formation on touring, giving, or volun teering at www.reiningstrength.org or call 832-451-6874. See ad on page 18.
T he Art League of Fort Bend (ALFB), a 501c3 nonprofit organization, began in 1957 with the vision of providing a community place where artists of all ages and stages could come to create, study and exhibit their talents. The mission is to encourage artistic development and cultivate an appreciation for the arts through education, exhibitions and community outreach.
ADVERTORIAL SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l 17 Check out our menu and more details at texanacafe.com 7440 FM 359 S, Fulshear, TX 77441 ▪ 1 mile North of Downtown Fulshear
The ALFB is completely run by member volunteers. Members host art walks, book signings, workshops and demos and participate in downtown Rosenberg’s events, including Chocolate Walk and Holiday Nights. Members also provide community displays for Attack Poverty, the Fort Bend History Museum, Pecan Grove Country Club, the Sugar Land Airport and the George Memorial Library.ALFB membership is open; information is available at www.artleaguefortbend.org.
Created by exceptional people
The Texana Cafe is a retail training center, created by Texana, with the goal to make and serve exceptional food while supporting meaningful employment for individuals with autism or intellectual
FBAC hours are noon to 5 PM, Wednesday to Sunday. See ad on page 22.
disabilities.SERVING EXCEPTIONAL FOOD SOUPS ▪ SALADS ▪ SANDWICHES COFFEE CREATIONS ▪ SWEET TREATS
Two annual ALFB art shows qualify artists to participate in the regional Lone Star Art Guild annual exhibit. Many award-winning artists show and sell their artwork on the walls of the FBAC.
In November 2017, the ALFB was given an opportunity to occupy space at 2012 Avenue G in historic downtown Rosenberg, and the Fort Bend Art Center (FBAC) was born. The FBAC contains 6,000 sq. ft. of gallery space, artist studios, classroom and office space and a gift shop. Artists meet, display, create and sell their work and provide education in this space. Instructors offer a variety of art classes and guitar lessons. Over 30 gallery member artists display paintings, drawings, photography, textiles, jewelry, sculptures, glass and ceramics. Gallery displays change quarterly, so there is The Art League of Fort Bend and the Fort Bend Art Center always something new to see! The gift shop boasts an eclectic variety of gifts.
Fort Bend Hope Where Learning Never Stops
Lynette Evertson, another longtime volunteer, lives for the “Aha moment.” “It’s so exciting to see the look on their face when they understand a new concept,” she said.
F
ort Bend Hope is a happy place where learning never stops! On an average day, one can hear the laughter of children as they continue learning after school, and the sound of adults learning to speak a new language, getting a GED or becoming US citizens. Fort Bend Hope (FBH) is solely focused on education and offers these programs for children and adults as they believe education is the key to breaking the cycle of generational poverty. Education is much more than facts and figures; education equals choices and opportunities. Education is the key to unlocking the American dream.
At Fort Bend Hope, the volunteers are game changers. FBH wants the com munity to be involved. Contact them today to impact someone’s future. For more information or to volunteer, call 346-702-3806 or email leslie@fortbendhope.org. At Fort Bend Hope the learning never stops!
See ad on page 10.
See page 16.
The Great Pumpkin Round Up: Fall Fun at The George Ranch T he George Ranch is a great place for families to visit anytime of the year, but there’s something very spe cial about the Historical Park when the weather turns a bit cooler. That fall feeling is captured in a picturesque way when two semi truckloads of pump kins, gourds and squash arrive from Floydada, Texas, to create the Great Pumpkin Round Up at the ranch. Inspired by the eighteen-year tradi tion at the Dallas Arboretum, local de signer Lucas Chavez creates a magical pumpkin display that will take your breath away. Last year, Chavez de buted the Great Pumpkin Round Up by creating a unique design surrounding the George Ranch House that included a western chuck wagon, training car riage and antique plows, and this year, there’s even more pumpkin fabulous to enjoy in his original fall-inspired cre ation.The perfect place for visitors of all ages to take that unforgettable fall pho to surrounded by pumpkins that climb structures and cascade to the ground in whimsical designs, the Great Pumpkin Round Up debuts October 15th and is available for visitors to enjoy every Sat urday this fall through November 26th. The experience requires purchase of a regular admission ticket to the George Ranch Historical Park and includes the added fun of children’s games at the Ranch House. Come for the photos and awe and stay for a day of outdoor fun. Bring a picnic, tour the historic homes and explore what life on the prairie was like decades ago. To purchase tick ets, visit www.georgeranch.org.
ADVERTORIAL SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com18
To make this possible, Fort Bend Hope depends upon the generous spirit of their volunteers. From helping a child with their homework to working with an adult who is studying for his citizenship, there are countless opportunities to get involved at FBH. FBH prides itself on providing a great emotional return on the volunteer’s investment of time. Kendall Boyd, a longtime volunteer, said, “I always take more home with me than when I arrived with because of the energy and excitement the children have.”
ad on
The Needville Harvest Festival 2022 T he 38th Annual Needville Harvest Festival will bring two days of fall fun to Harvest Park, located at 3001 Violet Street, on Friday, October 14th and Saturday, October 15th. Admis sion will be free this year! Gates will open at 5 PM Friday for an evening of music, the annual barbecue cook-off, fajita and margarita judging.
See ad on page 13.
New this year, the Caboose exhibit has undergone some serious changes. Start ing in February, the museum had contractors out to help renovate and restore the car’s interior. From the freshly painted walls and floors to the reupholstered furni ture, the 1972 Caboose looks almost brand new. The exhibit now has interpretive signs and will celebrate its completion in December, also marking its 50th birthday.
Saturday beginning at 7:30 AM, the fun continues with crowd favor ites, such as the annual Talent Show, Little Miss and Mr. Contest, Queen’s Contest, lawn mower races, an expand ed BBQ cook-off with a KidzQ, a live auction, and new this year, is a magic show by Paul Driscoll. The Kidz Zone is sure to keep young ones entertained. Mason and Friends Polka music will be playing Saturday from 11 AM to 4 PM, and the raffle drawing will take place at 6:30 PM. There will be plenty of activities for people of all ages. Make plans now to participate in some of the fun-filled contests or to just come out and have a great time.
The Rosenberg Railroad Museum
ADVERTORIAL SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l 19
The Needville Harvest Festival, Inc. is a non-profit 501c3 organization that operates Harvest Park and presents the annual family-friendly festival.
There are so many cool things to see and do at the museum! Whether you are a train fan or just looking for a fun and educational outing, the museum has some thing for everyone. Check out their upcoming events planned for the fall as well as some new exhibit improvements.
Kicking off their fall season on September 10th is Discovery Day, where every one receives free admission.
See ad on page 22.
Hopes are high that this year’s festi val will be a record-breaking success. Wearing a mask and social distancing will be Visitencouraged.www.needvilleharvestfest.org for a complete schedule, contest rules and much more. For additional infor mation, call 281-468-9314.
C lang, Clang – All Aboard! The Rosenberg Railroad Museum (RRRM) is busy getting ready for an amazing fall festival season!
The Education Station offers a large model train exhibit room, children’s play room, a classroom for Scout Merit Badge classes, Wig-Wag Fridays for preschool ers, and exhibit enrichment classes. School field trips and group tours are always welcome by appointment.
On Saturday, October 8th, RRRM will host their ever-popular Fall Fun Fest, an annual fall fundraiser benefiting the museum. Rounding out the month of October, RRRM will have a Halloween Family Fun Day on Saturday October 29th.
The Rosenberg Railroad Museum is a hidden gem nestled in Historic Downtown Rosenberg. For more information, visit www.rosenbergrrmuseum.org or call 281633-2846 to learn more.
“All proceeds from the Harvest Fest go right back into the improvement and maintenance of the park, which is for all of the community to enjoy,” said President Chris Janicek. Janicek said the all-volunteer Har vest Fest committee is comprised of “some of the most hard-working, dedi cated individuals you’ll find anywhere.”
21000RiverFriday,BenefittingPicnicwww.OakBendmedcenter.org/patchwork-of-life281-341-3094fortheParkCullinanParkOctober7th•11:30AMto1PMPointeChurchSWFwy,Richmond,TX77469
See ad on page 14.
ADVERTORIAL SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com20
September 2022 Art and Antiques Walk Benefitting Art League of Fort Bend
Chaired by Gay Thompson and Cee Cee Parker and presented by Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, join supporters for the 2022 Picnic for the Park honoring Doug and Susie Goff for their continued support. Enjoy a picnic lunch, featured guest speaker, Nina Cullinan Award Winners and the 2022 photo contest winners.
OctoberBenefittingThewww.Cullinanparkconservancy.orgMousetrapbyAgathaChristieCastTheatricalTheatre7th–October23rd,Fridays and Saturdays 7:30 PM; Sunday Matinee 2:30 PM 1909 Avenue G, Rosenberg, TX 77471 A true classic by the grand dame of mysteries. A group of strangers is stranded in a boarding house during a snowstorm, and one of them is a murderer. Murder, mystery and intrigue from the foremost mystery writer of her time. For more information and tickets, email boxoffice@casttheatrical.com; 832-889-3808 www.Casttheatrical.com
Saturday, September 10th • 10 AM to 3 PM Fort Bend Art Center 2021 Ave G, Rosenberg, TX 77471 Come out for a colorful day! Members of the Fort Bend Art Center will be setting up booths along Ave G in Rosenberg with lots of gift items for the upcoming holidays. The event is free. www.Artleaguefortbend.org
OakBend Medical Center’s Patchwork of Life Event 2022 O akBend Medical Center is ex cited to announce the 10th an nual Patchwork of Life fundraiser will take place completely virtually, via computer. This is an opportunity for the Fort Bend County community to honor and support the only remaining independent non-profit hospital in the Greater Houston Area. Mark your cal endars for Thursday, October 6th from 6 pm to 9 pm to share this fun evening with OakBend by participating in this amazing event from the convenience of your living room. There are four sponsorship levels to join the party. Each sponsorship level comes with a delicious dinner delivered to your home on Thursday, October 6th.
Golden Threads Sponsor: $10,000-Per sonal chef VIP dinner with wine for 12 served in your home. Community Fabric Sponsor: $5,500-Chef-prepared VIP dinner with wine for 8. Patterns of Hope Sponsor: $3,500-Gringo’s Mexi can Kitchen fajita meal for 8 and a pitcher of margaritas. Stitches of Love Sponsor: $2,500-Mixed BBQ dinner from Rudy’s for 8. As the only independent, non-profit hospital in the Greater Houston Area, OakBend is committed to providing exceptional, compassionate healthcare to the people it serves, regardless of their ability to pay. Community sup port plays an important role in helping OakBend meet the needs of our com munity. OakBend is honored by the continued support of the community and corporate partners. Funds raised from this year’s event will go toward the purchase of upgraded medical equipment.Forsponsorship opportunities or to donate an auction package, contact patchwork-of-life/https://www.oakbendmedcenter.org/at.
Benefitting OakBend Medical Center Thursday, October 6th • 6 PM Virtual Event: At-Home Live Streaming Patchwork of Life is an annual fundraiser benefitting the last remaining independent non-profit hospital in the Greater Houston Area.
October 2022 Patchwork of Life
Events Events
Community Community
October 15th – November 26th • 9 AM to 5 PM George Ranch Historical Park 10215 FM 762 Richmond, TX 77469
BenefittingArtwww.RosenbergRRmuseum.orgLeagueFallShowArtLeagueofFortBend
Benefitting Fort Bend History Association Saturdays
Benefitting Fort Bend County Non-Profit Organizations and Agencies
Book Signing Fair
November 2022
Benefitting Rosenberg Railroad Museum October 8th • 10 AM to 4 PM Rosenberg Railroad Museum 1921 Ave F, Rosenberg, TX 77471 Family fun with bounce houses, train rides, face painting, model train layouts, games and prizes. Food trucks and vendors will also be on site. General Admission $10; Children under 2 free. info@rrm.org; 281-633-2846
BenefittingTexianwww.GeorgeRanch.orgMarketDaysFortBendHistory Association
Fall Fun Fest – May The Steam Be With You
Sugar Plum Market
Benefitting Needville Harvest Park Friday, October 14th • 5 to 11:30 PM Saturday, October 15th • 7:30 AM to 11 PM Needville Harvest Park 3001 Violet Street, Needville, TX 77461 Enjoy BBQ Cook-off, talent show raffle, car show, Polka music, Queen contest, Little Mr. and Miss Contest and a magic show by Paul Driscoll. Entry is free but donations are accepted. 281-468-9314 www.Needvilleharvestfest.org
Chairs Cherie Lyne Bouterie, Monica Hasty, Leah Henley, Michelle Monterroso, Chelsi Oestreich and Ashley Stephens continue to focus their efforts on raising much needed funds for agencies and programs serving the needs of Fort Bend County through the Sugar Plum Market as the Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) enters its 22nd year. Since its inception, FBJSL has raised over $3.7 million for area non-profits. Sponsor information is available at sponsors@sugarplummarket.com. Preview Night Tickets $75; General Admission and Pre-Sale $12; At the Door $15. www.SugarPlumMarket.cominfo@sugarplummarket.com
The Great Pumpkin Round Up
A fabulous professionally designed display of fall pumpkins, gourds and plants. The perfect backdrop for photos and a great way to welcome autumn! Included with Park Admission –Adults $15; Children $10; Children under 4 Free Info@georgeranch.org; 281-343-0218
October 22nd • 9
Saturday, November 26th • Noon to 5 PM Fort Bend Art Center 2012 Ave G, Rosenberg, TX 77471 Local authors and illustrators will be showcasing and signing their books. Admission is free. For more information, call 832-945-2882. www.Artleaguefortbend.org
38th Annual Needville Harvest Fest
May 2023
ADVERTORIAL SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l 21
Preview Night: Wednesday, November 2nd Market: Thursday, November 3rd to Saturday, November 5th Stafford Centre Performing Theatre & Convention Center 10505 Cash Road, Stafford, TX 77477
Saturday, October 8th • Noon to 5 PM Fort Bend Art Center 2021 Ave G, Rosenberg, TX 77471 Award-winning art will be on display at the Fort Bend Art Center. Admission is free. www.Artleaguefortbend.org
AM to 5 PM George Ranch Historical Park 10215 FM 762 Richmond, TX 77469 A great outdoor event featuring cowboys, cannons, history and fun! Imagine life 200 years ago with a special roping and cattle shows, hands-on activities, battle re-enactments home tours and more. Admission Adults $20; Children $15; Children under 4 free. Info@georgeranch.org; 281-343-0218 www.GeorgeRanch.org October 2022 Derby BenefittingDay Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship May 6th • 3:30 PM Marriott Sugar Land Town Square 16090 City Walk, Sugar Land TX 77479 Reining Strength’s primary fundraiser, Derby Day chaired by Noell Myska and Alicen Swift continues to focus efforts on raising much needed funds to ensure that resources are available to help clients make great strides. For tickets or sponsorships, info@reiningstrength.org; 832-451-6874
The George Ranch Historical Park is located at 10215 FM 762 in Richmond, TX, 77469. See ad on page 10. BBQ Cook-Off Kidz FestivalQ Fun Run Food
TheOctoberSaturday,22ndatGeorgeRanchHistoricalPark
T exas is known for wide-open spac es and the equally wide-open way its residents celebrate their heritage. Here in Fort Bend County, those two ideas will come together once again during Texian Market Days, held at the 23,000-acre George Ranch Histori cal Park, Saturday, October 22nd from 9 am to 5 pm. When an authentic working ranch plans a celebration, the result is a uniquely wide-ranging event where visitors young and old can all find some thing to embrace. History, food, crafts and demonstrations come together in a day-long celebration of what makes Texans, well, Texans. Food trucks, craft vendors and en tertainment will be on site in addition to visitors being able to venture out to explore the ranch. Activities of all types will unfold throughout the day – old-time games, historic home tours, riding team shooting demonstrations, plus cowboy roping and wrangling. Fo cus on one or two activities, or sample them all as the day unfolds and you travel through Texas time. What are you doing on October 22nd? Bring the entire family to “The Ranch” and make it a Saturday to re member. To learn more or to purchase tickets, visit www.georgeranch.org
Expanded
KidzRacingVendorsLawnMowersZone,Bubbles& More Leo’s Puppet Show Paul Driscoll Magic Show Friday, October 14th 5 pm - 10 pm Saturday, October 15th 7:30 am - 8:30 pm& 2022JohnRaffleDeere4by4Gator HarvestNeedvilleFestival www.needvilleharvestfest.org • 281.468.9314 Harvest Park • 3001 Violet St.• Needville FREE ADMISSION 501(c)(3) 38th Annual Arts Crafts Vendors Queen’s Contest Little Mr. & Miss Contest Talent Show Car Show DJ & Mason and Friends Polka Music & Much More
ADVERTORIAL SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com22
Texian Market Days Returns
“We had a dramatic increase in the number of nature pho tographers at the park this year beginning in February when up to 40 photographers at a time were out on the pier shooting photos of the Bald Eagles and Ospreys that regularly fish the park’s White Lake. We are excited that so many new people have discovered the beauty of Cullinan and hope to see a lot of great entries in this year’s contest,” said Cullinan Park Conser vancy President Robbin Mallett. Thanks to Photo Contest underwriter Oxbow Advisors, up to 20 entrants will win Cullinan online store credits, and one Grand Prize Winner will receive a $200 cash prize plus a full-day outing with acclaimed Houston wildlife photographer and bird ing guide Greg Lavaty anywhere in the Sugar Land, Houston, Galveston or Brazoria area.
Winners will also see their photos published in the November/December issues of Fort Bend Fo cus and absolutely! Brazos Magazines. Photographers may submit up to five total photos in the fol lowing categories: Osprey/Bald Eagle; All Other Birds; Wildlife; Flora (trees, flowers, plants) and Landscape. To encourage young photographers, the Conservancy has an “18 and un der” category so youth and teenagers can be judged with their peers.There is no fee to participate, and winners will receive both bragging rights and prizes. Anyone is eligible to participate, but photographs must be taken at Joseph S. and Lucie H. Cullinan Park, just north of Sugar Land Regional Airport on Highway 6 in Sugar Land. The photos may be taken at any time of year. For complete details, visit www.cullinanparkconservancy. org/contest. The Conservancy was created in 2010 to advocate for, enhance and protect the natural beauty of the 754-acre Cullinan Park. Located in Sugar Land, it is one of the largest nature parks in the greater Houston area with two lakes, miles of shady pedestrian-only hiking trails and abundant wildlife.
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Cullinan Park Conservancy Announces 2022 Photo Contest
NEWSWORTHY
2021 1st Place in the Youth Landscape Category “Winter Path” by Ethan Liaw (14 yrs) of Sugar Land.
2021 1st Place in the Bird Category “Nice Catch” by Trevor Gatus of Houston. 2021 1st Place in the Wildlife Category “Needham’s Skimmer” by Roger Hutchison of Missouri City.
Cullinan Park Conservancy (CPC) invites photographers of all levels to submit photos to its annual photo contest. The con test is held in conjunction with the Conservancy’s sixth annual “Picnic for the Park” luncheon to be held on Friday, October 7th at River Pointe Church in Richmond. The contest opens August 1st, and the deadline for entering is Friday, September 16th.
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OCTOBER 2022 l
• Achieve and maintain a healthy weight. (People with breast cancer who are overweight or obese should limit highcalorie foods and beverages and increase physical activity to help with weight loss.)
• Quit smoking (or never start smoking).
H ealthy lifestyle choices are linked to a lower risk of some cancers and other health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and osteoporosis.
• According to the American Cancer Society, the benefits of eating fresh fruits and vegetables outweigh any health risks linked with pesticide residue.
It’s Never too Late to Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle
Getting regular screening tests (and treatment, if diagnosed) lowers the risk of dying from breast cancer. Screening tests can find breast cancer at an early stage, when the chances for survival are highest.
Being physically active, achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol and to a lesser degree, eating fruits and vegetables and not smoking are linked to a lower risk of breast cancer. Other guidelines are good for your overall health and may be linked to a lower risk of other types of cancer.
Adapted from the American Cancer Society’s Diet and Physical Activity Guidelines for Cancer Prevention and the U.S. Surgeon General’s Report on Smoking [30,335,373].
• Organic plants are grown without the use of conventional pesticides. Conventional fruits and vegetables may have low levels of pesticide residue.
• Avoid alcohol. For those who choose to drink alcohol, limit to less than 1 drink a day for women and fewer than 2 drinks a day for men.
Focus on the Cure
Organic Foods
• Fruits and vegetables (both organic and conventional) are part of a healthy diet. Buying fresh (or frozen) conventional produce and thoroughly washing and rinsing before eating is always a good practice.
• Choose 100 percent whole grain foods, such as 100 percent whole grain breads and cereals, brown rice, millet and quinoa.
• Eat at least 2 1/2-3 cups of vegetables and 2 cups of fruit every day. Eat a variety of vegetables and fruits. Include dark green, red and orange vegetables, as well as legumes, such as beans, lentils, peas and soy foods.
Everyone should aim to:
• Be physically active (get regular exercise).
Some people prefer to eat organic foods. However, people who eat organic meat, dairy, fruits and vegetables don’t appear to have a lower risk of breast cancer than people who don’t eat organic foods. Organic Fruits and Vegetables
Breast Cancer Screening
Healthy Lifestyle Choices
• Limit or avoid red meat and processed meat, such as beef, bacon and sausage. Choose chicken, fish or beans more often.
Although not all the behaviors listed below are linked to a lower risk of breast cancer, they are good for overall health.
• Limit or avoid sugar-sweetened beverages. Choose water or unsweetened beverages more often.
• Limit or avoid highly processed foods and refined grain products, such as fast food, ready-to-heat foods, snack foods and candy.
• Research shows organic foods are no more nutritious or better for you than foods farmed by conventional methods.
Learn more about breast cancer screening at https://www. komen.org/breast-cancer/screening/. / TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com24 Source: https://www.komen.org/breast-cancer/risk-factor/lifestyle/
• Being active, eating a balanced diet and making healthy lifestyle choices can be physically and mentally rewarding at any point in life.
SEPTEMBER
• Everyone can benefit from a healthy lifestyle.
• Eat “good” fats (polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats). These are found in foods such as olive and canola oil, nuts and natural nut butters, avocados and olives.
What is the purpose of a screening mammogram vs. diagnostic mammogram? A screening mammogram is done when you have no symptoms of breast cancer. The purpose is to find cancers in an early stage before you can feel a lump. If an irregularity on a screening mammogram is found, you may be asked to come back for further testing. A diagnostic mammogram may be ordered after a screening mammogram shows a questionable area, if you feel a lump in your breast or have other symptoms.
Creating A Comfortable Experience
Getting Your Results
Preparing For Your Mammogram
Understanding Mammogram Technology
SEPTEMBER /
OCTOBER 2022 l 25
Your Breast Cancer Screening Questions Answered
Who will review my images? Board-certified breast radiologists are specially trained to interpret breast mammogram results. How will I get my results? Once reviewed by a doctor, you can view your results in the patient portal. The lead technologist will call you to share findings and schedule further testing, if needed.
What is a 3D mammogram? A 3D mammogram, also called tomosynthesis, is the latest, most advanced technology to detect breast cancer with the greatest accuracy. 3D technology uses a low dose of radiation, yet allows for more targeted views that help find small cancers.
W hen life is busy, it’s easy to put everyone else’s needs before your own. But it’s important to make time for yourself — and your annual screening mammogram. If you’re not sure when to start getting mammograms or what to expect, we’re here to help.
Sandra Templeton, M.D. Houston Methodist Breast Surgery Partners at Sugar Land
Sandra Templeton, M.D., board-certified surgeon with Houston Methodist Breast Surgery Partners at Sugar Land, answered some common questions women have about getting mammograms.
What happens during a screening mammogram? The technologist will ask you some questions related to your health, including birth control, family history of breast cancer and any symptoms you may be experiencing. These questions are important to help make sure we’re doing the right type of mammogram. Next, you’ll be asked to stand in front of a 3D mammography machine, and the technologist will take two different X-ray views of each breast. Are mammograms painful? Some women may find the breast compression to be uncomfortable or painful, but the experience is different for everyone. The compression takes about 10 seconds for each image, and our technologists are trained to listen to you and make the experience as comfortable as possible.
Focus on the Cure Mammogram FAQS:
What does it mean to have dense breast tissue on a mammogram? Density refers to how much fibrous tissue is in the breast. Having high density on a mammogram makes it more difficult to see a mass. In some cases, a breast ultrasound may be ordered in addition to a mammogram for women with high breast density. What if I get called back for a second mammogram? Getting called for a second mammogram doesn’t mean you have cancer. It means more information is needed to see what’s going on. When you come in for a diagnostic mammogram, a breast radiologist will meet with you to share the results and answer your questions.
When should I start getting screening mammograms and how often? Your doctor may recommend annual mammograms starting at age 40 if you have an average risk for breast cancer. Ask your doctor about your risk for breast cancer and the screening schedule that’s right for you. Why should I get an annual mammogram? Getting regular mammograms makes it possible to detect breast cancers when they are small and easier to treat. It’s also helpful to be able to review your mammogram history and track any changes in the breast over time. What do I need to know about scheduling my mammogram? It may be helpful to avoid scheduling a mammogram the week before your period, when breasts may be more tender. However, it’s important to get in for a mammogram whenever it works with your schedule. What should I wear for my exam? Life is busy, and it’s okay if you show up as you are for your mammogram. Wearing a two-piece outfit makes it easier to remove your top for your mammogram, and it’s best to avoid wearing deodorant, powders or lotions. You’ll be offered wipes to remove deodorant, if needed. Does my insurance cover a mammogram? Most major insurance plans cover an annual screening mammogram, but it’s important to call and verify your coverage.
are decreasing in the
Did You Know? Female breast
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com26 Focus on the Cure
Approximately 12.9 percent of women will be diagnosed with female breast cancer at some point during their lifetime, based on 2017–2019 data. Prevalence of This Cancer In 2019, there were an estimated 3,771,795 women living with female breast cancer in the United States. cancer rates United States. key topics cancer this video from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) looks at trends in the United States.
death
in
surveillance,
Highlighting
Rate of New Cases and Deaths per 100,000
The rate of new cases of female breast cancer was 128.3 per 100,000 women per year. The death rate was 19.9 per 100,000 women per year. These rates are age-adjusted and based on 2015–2019 cases and deaths. Lifetime Risk of Developing Cancer
Click the video below: Source: html/breast.htmlhttps://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/
Y
• Dense breast tissue can make it more challenging to read mammograms. If a radiologist has difficulty reading your mammogram due to dense breasts, they may call you back to undergo further testing, such as an ultrasound or an MRI. So, now what? What is going to happen at the next appointment? Well, most likely you will get a diagnostic mammogram – meaning more pictures will be taken so that any areas of concern can be looked at more closely. Most likely, a radiologist will be on hand to advise the technologist on the detailed images that are needed. You may also get another imaging test, such as an ultrasound of the breast, which uses sound waves to make pictures of the inside of your breast in the area of concern. In some cases, you might need a breast biopsy. Even if you need a biopsy, it doesn’t mean you have cancer. Most biopsy results are not cancer, but a biopsy is the only way to find out. There are different types of breast biopsies, some of which are done using a small, hollow needle, and some that are done through a cut in the skin. The type needed depends on things like how suspicious the area looks, how big it is, where it is in the breast, other medical problems you might have and your personal preferences. Waiting for appointments and the results of tests can be frightening, especially if you were told the results of your first mammogram weren’t normal. You might have strong emotions, such as disbelief, anxiety, fear, anger or sadness during this time. That’s okay. Most often, breast changes are not cancer and are not life-threatening. Talking with a loved one or a counselor about your feelings may help. Talking with other women who have been called back after a mammogram may help. If you do have breast cancer, and you’re referred to a breast specialist, use these tips to make your appointment as useful as possible. Make a list of questions to ask. Take a family member or friend with you. They can serve as an extra pair of ears, take notes, help you remember things later and give you support. You might also want to take notes. If someone uses a word you don’t know, ask them to spell it and explain it. Ask the doctors or nurses to explain anything you don’tRegularunderstand.mammograms can be lifesaving. All screening tests can catch breast cancer earlier in its course of development, helping you to get the treatment you need as quickly as possible.
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l 27
• The pictures taken at your appointment might not have been clear or didn’t show some of your breast tissue, so they need to be retaken.
ou are doing everything right. You always go for your scheduled mammograms. Then, out of nowhere, you get the call. “We found an abnormality on your mammogram. You’ll need to come back for further screening.”
You start to sweat, your heart starts racing and you might even feel the need to cry. Slow down. Don’t panic. Did you know that, according to the American Cancer Society, one in 10 women (and men) get asked to come back for more tests, such as a repeat mammogram or ultrasound? This does not mean you have cancer. It just means a closer look is needed. This is a good thing. Healthcare professionals want to catch every little detail as early as possible. So, take a breath, calm down and schedule your follow up tests. Call your doctor and see how quickly you can get more testsKnowscheduled.thatthere are lots of reasons that you may be called back in:
• The radiologist, the doctor who reads the mammogram, may have seen something suspicious, such as calcifications or a mass (which could be a cyst or solid mass). This may be more likely for first-time mammogram patients since the radiologist does not have any past imaging for comparison.
Called Back For Another Mammogram? Don’t Panic!
Dr. Steve Thomas OakBend Medical Center
Focus on the Cure
The final resting place of the Sugar Land 95 at sunset. The famous Battle of the Berg Trophy. and Technical Center. All of the graves were unmarked. The cemetery is now called the Bullhead Camp Cemetery, and it is located at University Drive and Cha tham Avenue. Drop by when you have a chance. Tour information is available on the Fort Bend ISD website at brutalwereThesewww.fortbendisd.com/Page/143976https://once-forgottenhumanbeingsnotperfect,likeallofus,buttheirliveshelpedmake
Fort Bend Strong
love September in Texas! The Friday Night Lights of Fort Bend high school football are shining brightly all over our county. The Battle of the Berg between Lamar Consolidated and B.F. Terry gets things rolling on September 2nd. By the end of September, Katy will be undefeated and beginning to think about their eleventh Texas state title – no surprise. The huge surprise will be the utter smack down my Rice Owls will put on the Southern California Trojans in Los Angeles on September 3rd. I will bet all the cash I can find on my Owls. The game will be over after halftime. The Trojan Marching Band has never defeated my MOB (Marching Owl Band), and it ain’t happenin’ in 2022. It is not even close. September football and marching bands are Fort Bend Strong
Why September is My Favorite Month
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SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com28 Labor Day is the only federal holi day in September. It occurs on the first Monday of the month. Congress passed a law in 1894 to recognize the contribu tions union workers made to America’s prosperity. In Fort Bend, we need to modify our Labor Day 2022 celebration to honor the contributions of the Sugar Land 95 and other Convict Lease slaves who made our sugar refinery and our home town thrive after the Civil War. Since the owners of the sugar refinery only leased the convicts from the local prison, the owners did not care if the convicts lived or died – work them to death and get another. Ninety-five vic tims (94 men and 1 woman) were dis covered in February 2019 during con struction of the James Reese Career
The third Friday of every September is a very somber remembrance of Ameri can heroes that, sadly, most of us for get: National Prisoner Of War/ Missing In Action (POW/MIA) Recognition Day. This is a day I celebrate because God blessed me with a friendship that will exist forever. I met Vietnam POW Sam Johnson while I served in Congress, and I have the eternal honor to call him “dear friend.”Sam was one of the best fighter pilots
29 Sam and Shirley Johnson: A kiss 7+ years in the making. A family welcomes a hero home to Texas. Father Hidalgo. Nancy and Pete Olson. My daughter Kate with Colonel Sam in the Capitol Complex. in history of the United States Air Force. On April 16, 1966, while flying his 25th combat mission over North Vietnam, he was shot down and captured. For nearly seven years, he was tortured daily. Sam resisted his barbaric Vietcong guards so fiercely that he was removed from the Hanoi Hilton to Alcatraz. There, he with stood 42 months in solitary confinement in a three foot by nine foot concrete box. The bright lights in Sam’s cell were never turned off. He was severely beaten if he spoke English. The enemy permanently disabled his right hand because that was the hand that dropped weapons on North Vietnam. The ultimate war fighter became a crippled, 120-pound walk ing skeleton when he was released on February 12, 1973. He was so repulsed after seeing himself in a mirror for the first time in seven years that he feared being reunited with family. How could they love this hideous creature? God made sure Sam had nothing to fear as this photograph of Sam coming home to Texas to hold his wife, Shirley, and his children, Gini, Beverly and Bob, clearly shows. We lost Sam on May 27, 2020. I still miss him. POWs and MIAs will al ways make Fort Bend Strong. One of the oldest holidays Texans celebrate is our first rebellion for inde pendence from a foreign nation. It is not the battle of the Alamo or Goliad or San Jacinto. It was a “Grito de Delores” – a cry for action to the citizens of the town of Delores, New Spain to rise up and break away from Spain. The Grito was delivered by Priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla on September 16, 1810. Father Hidalgo was betrayed and executed by the Spanish on July 30, 1811. His cour age started the fires for a free Mexico, which led to Mexico’s true indepen dence in 1821. Back then, Texas was part of Mexico. That is why Texans cel ebrate Diez y Sies de Septiembre. That’s Fort Bend Strong
Finally, the best day I will ever have in my life is September 25th. On that day in 1993, I watched this tall, blonde, intel ligent, gorgeous woman walk down the aisle at Brentwood Presbyterian Church to join me in Holy Matrimony. Nancy and I will celebrate our twenty-ninth anniver sary this year. We’re still laughing and our love only grows. Enjoy this September because every day is Fort Bend Strong!
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l
Financing Available In our warehouse, we carry setting materials and special buys on flooring. For a FREE in home estimate, call: 281-762-9999 We have everything you need.
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com30 HomeHearthand Guide to Home Living Home and Hearth ADVERTORIAL
I deal Carpet and Flooring is a locally owned and operated home im provement business with over 30 years of experience. Ideal offers flooring, counter tops, backsplashes and bathroom/shower remodeling. Our design specialists are here to offer their expertise to help you en hance the beauty of your home.
Ideal Carpet and Flooring invites you to visit with their knowledgeable team to discuss and plan your next home improvement project. For more information, visit www.idealcarpetandflooring.com or call 281.762.9999 for a complimentary in-home estimate. 1116 East Highway 90A • Richmond, TX 77406 idealcarpetandflooring.com
Ideal Carpet & Flooring is a locally owned and operated home improvement business with over 30 years of experience.Our design center carries a variety of styles and quality products that are unique and up to date with most current trends.
Ideal Carpet and Flooring
Ideal’s design center carries a variety of styles and quality products that are unique and up to date with most current trends. Additionally, they use only the highest quality setting materials and installation meth ods to ensure that the job is done to last and impress. In their on-site warehouse, they carry setting materials and special buys on flooring. So, whether you want a professional installation, or you are a do-it-yourselfer, they have everything you need. Quality products, superior installation, personal service, and customer satisfaction has been the key to their success for over 30 years.
281.238.0735 Ornamental Iron • Wood • Chain www.Apache-Fence.comLink
Timeless Color
In the world of design, what’s old inevitably becomes new again, and a similar pattern is inspiring today’s on-trend color palettes for home decor. The latest styles reflect reviv ing and comforting colors influenced by heritage and romance, lending to a look that is familiar in an individualistic way.
Source: HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams / Family Features
“The Vintage Homestead Color Collection offers an effort less look that reveals the importance of being hopeful to find stability and balance,” said Ashley Banbury, HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams senior color designer. “Our 2023 Color Col lection of the Year revives elements from the past that are per fectly paired with vintage, comfortable and classic colors.”
A cohesive color scheme can allow the various elements to stand on their own while working in harmony for an intentional design. For example, the HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams 2023 Color Collection of the Year includes a combination of familiar tones that have been thoughtfully curated by design experts who borrow color and design concepts from the past for a hopeful future and a sense of belonging. Hues like Poetry Plum and Hot Cocoa evoke warmth and depth, while moderate shades like Restrained Gold and Glamour offer fresh ways to incorporate mid-range neutrals. Meanwhile, soft tones like Nat ural Linen and Cool Beige offer subtle color for lighter, brighter spaces. Mixing and Matching of Eras: A new take on retro design is emerging in which eras are blended and new and old furnish ing work side by side. To get this look, you’ll craft a space that marries historical and contemporary design, celebrating both the old and new. To design for longevity, incorporate pieces that are ambiguous in era and stand the test of time.
A versatile color choice like Darkroom, the 2023 Color of the Year from HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams, is an allur ing shade that is classic enough for heritage interiors but also modernly retro for a throwback-inspired aesthetic. It’s a neutral perfect for creating an eclectic yet modern look inside and out. Indoors, use it on the walls to offset more earthy brown and taupe tones in your furnishings and textiles.
Striking a balance between old and new can take many forms, as these styles show: Heritage Revival: An interest in reviving the past is evi dent in design trends like a remerging appreciation of antiques and vintage elements, such oversized furniture and traditional shapes. To capture this style, your design should focus on con trasting old and new for a mix-and-match look.
Get inspired to combine the past with the present for a com forting design, visit www.hgtvhomebysherwinwilliams.com
Reimagining classic, familiar tones allows you to achieve a design motif that is equal parts reminiscent and refreshing.
Using color to evoke feelings and emotions is hardly new but combining a carefully curated color palette with other design elements can allow you to create a look that pays homage to the past while breathing new life into your living space.
Comforting Color Fill Your Home with Balance and Hope
Vintage Homestead: Reviving design elements from the past with mixed patterns, classic shapes and vintage decor adds up to comfortable and comforting design. With this trend, prints and patterns encompass a range of styles, reinforcing how interiors connect to fashion. Mixing classic elegance with sleek vintage shapes is refining the concept of polished com fort. To achieve the look, curate pieces in heritage shapes and patterns, along with retro accents. Be sure to incorporate vin tage lighting and glass, as well.
With more people living their everyday, working lives at home, many homeowners are discovering the contentment that comes with slowing down. Often that means looking to the past to find comfort for moving forward. Whether living through the romance of rural lifestyles, the comfort of home or the nostalgia from far-off times, some of to day’s most beloved design aesthetics celebrate the past, pres ent and future while bringing balance, hope and comfort for you and your family to embrace.
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l 31 Home and Hearth
Blending Past and Present
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com32 NEWSWORTHY
To close out the 2022 Fort Bend County Fair, a legendary country music duo, the Bellamy Brothers, will take the stage on Sunday, October 2nd. Howard and David’s career as the Bella my Brothers have been recording hits and entertaining crowds for over 40 years. With 14 number-one hits like “If I Said You Had A Beautiful Body (Would You Hold It Against Me),” “Red neck Girl,” and “For All The Wrong Reasons,” it will be a great way to wrap up the fair’s run. Make plans to come out and enjoy live music and all the things the Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo offers. All concerts are included in the ticket price. Visit www.fortbendcountyfair. com
Fort Bend County’s favorite son, Jon Stork, is returning to Fort Bend County Fair 2022 Entertainment Lineup our fair on Thursday, September 29th. Stork, raised in Beas ley, Texas, continues to tour throughout the United States. In 2021, Stork took the Fair’s stage and packed in the fans. “I look forward to returning and making memories at what is my hometown fair,” said Stork.
On Friday, September 30th, the award-winning vocal group Shenandoah will be in concert. Known for their country hits such as “Two Dozen Roses,” “Church on Cumberland Road,” and “Next to You, Next to Me,” the band recorded nine stu dio albums and placed 26 singles on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart. With a Grammy and an Academy of Country Mu sic Award, Shenandoah is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Country music power-hitter Sammy Kershaw will be per forming on Saturday, October 1st. Kershaw’s unique vocal skills helped make the ‘90’s a shining decade for country mu sic. Sammy grew up in the Cajun country of Louisiana on a diet of crawfish and country music. His platinum albums were propelled into the record books by hits such as “She Don’t Know She’s Beautiful,” “I Can’t Reach Her Anymore,” “Na tional Working Woman’s Holiday,” “Love Of My Life,” “Cadillac Style,” “Don’t Go Near The Water” and “Haunted Heart.”
From September 23rd to October 2nd, artists representing the Texas Music scene, Traditional Country and Latin Music will be taking the stage. “Our fair’s entertainment lineup brings great artists who will deliver a good time. We are ready to have a full fair, with family fun, and enjoy the live concerts and all the fair has to offer,” said Chase Raska, 2022 President, Fort Bend CountyKickingFair.off the Fair on Friday, September 23rd, will be the pride of Stephenville, Texas, Giovannie and the Hired Guns, making their debut. These Texas Music trend-setters are one of Amazon Music’s 2022 “Artists to Watch” and are on a coastto-coast summer tour, including stops in Nashville, New York, Los Angeles, Seattle and Portland.
The Bellamy Brothers. https://www.fortbendcountyfair.com/events/2022/secrettoSecretto.
Entertainment picks up again on Wednesday, September 28th, with Cat Spring, Texas native Carson Jeffrey. Carson will be debuting his musical talents with his full band show. Carson has been touring all over Texas and Oklahoma this summer.
The Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo has released the 2022 entertainment lineup. Eight musical acts will be in concert, pro viding crowd-pleasing entertainment throughout the fair’s run.
The iconic honky-tonk favorite, Kevin Fowler, will be taking the stage on Saturday, September 24th. The “Beer, Bait and Ammo” singer and Texas Music mainstay always draws a huge crowd. Fans adore and follow Kevin throughout his tour. This performance will be Kevin’s fifth appearance at the Fort Bend County Fair. On Sunday, September 25th, Secretto will be bringing their Latin sounds to the stage. From cumbia to Tejano, the popular five-member band from Edinburg, Texas will fill the air with their skilled accordion sounds. The pride of the Rio Grande Valley, Secretto, has been on tour from Texas to Indiana.
For
Libraries Special-EditionReleaseCardfor75thAnniversary
DINE • SIP • SHOP • LOCAL Historic Downtown Rosenberg Current Museum hours: Wed-Fri. 10 am - 3 pm Sat. 10 am - 4 pm • Sun. 1 pm - 4 pm Located in Historic DownTown Rosenberg 1921 Avenue F • Rosenberg, Texas 77471 281-633www.RosenbergRRmuseum.org2846 1917 Avenue G HistoricRosenbergDowntown77471BoutiqueWinesCraftBeerOpenWednesday - Saturday www.BRvino.com (281) 762-0900 Check Facebook for events! Rosenberg’s Finest Wine LastTriviaofWineRoomClub1stTuesdayeverymonthBingo2ndThursdayeachmonthNightWednesdayofeachmonth Jeffrey C.CPA,McClellanPLLC Controller-ACCounting-tAx Proudly Located in Historic Downtown Rosenberg 281-725-6085 830 3rd Street • Suite 205 Rosenberg, Tx www.jcm-cpa.com77471 Designs in Fine Jewelry, LLC Chris Dostal, Owner 281-342-2112 • dostalsjewelry.com 940 Third St., Rosenberg, TX 77471 “Your Hometown Jeweler” NEWSWORTHY In recognition of its 75th Anniver sary in 2022, Fort Bend County Librar ies (FBCL) will release a limited-edition commemorative library card during Na tional Library Card Sign-Up Month in September.FBCLcards are free to all Texas resi dents. New library users who apply for a FBCL card for the first time in Septem ber will automatically receive the spe cial-edition anniversary library card. To apply for a library card, visit any FBCL location. One of the follow ing forms of a valid, unexpired photo ID must be provided to show proof of identification: a valid, unexpired govern ment-issued photo ID, passports from any country, or any state driver license. If the photo ID does not include a cur rent address, bring a separate document to validate this information (mail, utility bill, etc. from the last 30 days).
Current FBCL cardholders, who would like to receive a special limitededition library card, may pay a replace ment fee of $2 to receive the anniversary card. The new card will have a new bar code number, and their existing account number will change. more information on how to get a library card, visit www.fortbend.lib.tx.us or call the library system’s Communica tions Office at 281-633-4734.
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com34 Vote online at absolutelybrazos.com • August 2 to September 16 Vote for your favs and see who wins! NEWSWORTHY
Richmond Farmer’s Market continues the first Friday of the month with new hours and a new location. Attendees will now find the market at the City of Richmond’s Old Fire Station lo cated just over the Brazos River bridge at 112 Jackson St. (corner of 2nd St.) from 4:30 to 8:30 PM. The Richmond Farmers Market is ongoing offering fresh produce from local growers and artisan goods, as well as some prepared foods. This market is being managed by lo cal community volunteer and advocate Jessica Huang, who shared, “I’ve en joyed seeking out the variety of offerings like microgreens, hot sauce, vegetables and plants. I am looking forward to shar ing this market with our community and would love to hear the community’s in City of Richmond First Fridays Continue with New Location and Hours put. I can be reached at Jessica@FarmersMarket.Love.”
Richmond’s First Friday events also brings Movies At Wes sendorff Park the first Friday of the month at dark. “It has been a goal of the city team to bring events to our community which introduce people to historic downtown Richmond and a chance to shop local. Wessendorff Park also provides a grassy theater bowl for perfect viewing of the movie under the stars,” City Manager Terri VelaAllshared.2022monthly movies are recent animated films with food trucks on site for food purchase, Rotary Club of Rich mond popping free popcorn and the city providing free water for all attend ees. Everyone can bring their own food and drink should they choose. Support local in historic downtown Richmond the first Friday of the month, 4:30 to 8:30 PM, and come ready to ex plore a movie under the stars!
Heather Hernandez Sedillo, Wes Hudson and Ammie Blahuta
A flag raising ceremony was held at Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship in Richmond. The ceremony was performed by the American Legion of Sugar Land, Post 942. Ray and Diana Aguilar donated the flagpole and flag.
Noell Myska and Kyle Atchison
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l 35
IN HEARTTHE OF BRAZOS OUT & ABOUT
American Legion members Jesse Vargas, Mike Valasco, Leo Villafranco and Ralph Villarral with SedilloHernandezHeather , Ray, Diana and Alex Aguilar and Sara Hackley
Mandi Bronsell with Constable Chad and Amy Norvell
RD and Heather Sedillo, Ray, Diana and Alex Aguilar and Sara Hackley
In bowl, stir together chicken, grapes, celery, yogurt, salt and pepper. Scoop three equal portions onto serving plate. Shape each into oval. Top each with upside down avocado half. Decorate each avocado half to resemble Roz’s face. Using sharp paring knife, trim each pretzel twist to create horn-rimmed glasses lens by cutting off double loop section of each pretzel twist and discarding or enjoying as snack, keeping single loop portion, which will become one lens. Two lenses are needed per RozPlaceHead.two pretzel lenses on each avocado to form glass es. Add pretzel stick to each side of avocado to form arms of glasses. Push four pretzel sticks into top of each avocado to form hair. Add strawberry slice, trimmed to look like lips for her mouth, and place blueberry on lower left side of face to form mole. time: 15 minutes •
Servings: 3 1 Cup Cubed, Cooked Chicken Breast 1/2 Cup Dole® Green Grapes, Halved 1/4 Cup Chopped Dole Celery 1/3 Cup Nonfat Plain Greek Yogurt 1/4 Teaspoon Salt 1/4 Teaspoon Pepper 1 1/2 Dole Avocados, Halved, Pitted and Peeled 6 Whole-Wheat Pretzel Twists 18 Whole-Wheat Pretzel Sticks 1 Dole Strawberry, Sliced 3 Dried, Sweetened Blueberries Disney/Pixar.©2020 Roz. SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com36
RozChickenStuffedHeads Prep
I ntroducing kids to unfamiliar flavors doesn’t have to be a frightful experience. Getting creative and taking cues from some beloved characters may be all it takes for families to explore produce in a new way and discover how delicious, satisfying and enjoy able fresh fruits and vegetables can be. A passion for produce may begin with America’s favorites, like bananas, apples, citrus, celery, carrots and broccoli, but that’s just the beginning. Whether it’s their angry names and tough exteri ors, or simply a fear of the unknown about taste and preparation, dozens more diverse and exotic fruits and vegetables like dragon fruit, horned melon and Brussels sprouts are often the sources of produce paranoia.Aninitiative from Dole, in collaboration with Dis ney and Pixar’s Monsters, Inc., is helping to take the scare out of specialty fruits and vegetables and widen America’s produce horizons. That’s because, like a good book or the characters in a beloved film, you can’t judge a fruit or vegetable by its appearance; na ture’s true beauty often lies within. The campaign offers character-inspired recipes, serving suggestions, digital and social activations, family-friendly activities, fun trivia and influencer part nerships that celebrate the not-so-scary world of the planet’s more unusual fresh bounty. One easy way to introduce new flavors is by trying a variation of a familiar fruit or veggie. For example, there are more than 500 edible banana varieties in the world. You might sample a red banana or a Manzano, or even an ice cream banana, with a taste resembling vanillaThesecustard.funand kid-friendly Green Slime Nacho Cups feature plantains, for example, a member of the banana family with a different taste and texture than everyday yellow bananas – more firm and starchy like a potato. Increase your family’s produce intake even further with a Slippery Slimy Smoothie and Chicken Stuffed Roz Heads, which call for green grapes, cel ery, avocados, strawberries and blueberries. Find more recipes, visit www.dole.com/Disney
Scary Good FEATURE Take The Fear Out of UnfamiliarTryingProduce
• Servings: 2 (8 ounces
Source: Family Features
1 1/2
1 Tablespoon
Prep time: 5 minutes • Cook time: 20 minutes Green Starting to Turn Yellow Dole® Plantain, Peeled and Thinly Sliced on Bias Teaspoons Canola Oil Teaspoon Salt, Divided Dole Avocado, Halved, Pitted and Peeled Lime Juice Clove Garlic, Minced Cup Thinly Shredded Dole Purple Cabbage
1
1/2
1/2 Cup Dole® Spinach 1 Dole Banana, Peeled and Frozen 1/2 Cup Dole Green Grapes, Frozen 1/3 Cup Cucumber, Diced 1/2 Cup Dole Pineapple 1/2 Cup Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk 1/2 Cup Nonfat Plain Greek Yogurt 5 Ice Cubes Slippery Slimy Smoothie SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l 37
In blender, blend spinach, banana, grapes, cucumber, pine apple, almond milk, Greek yogurt and ice cubes until smooth. Pour smoothie into two glasses and serve.
Green Slime Nacho
Prep time:10 minutes each)
Cups
• Servings: 4 1
Preheat oven to 375 F. Toss plantain slices with canola oil and season with pinch of salt. On parchment paper-lined baking sheet, arrange slices in single layer with no Bakeoverlapping.18-20minutes, or until crispy and lightly gold en. Cool completely and set aside. Using spoon, scoop flesh of avocado into small bowl and mash, reserving one half avocado shell. Stir mashed avocado with lime juice, garlic and remaining salt. Stir in slaw, reserving some for garnish. Scoop into reserved avocado shell and smooth top with back of spoon. Stick reserved cabbage shreds out of avo cado mixture to look like hair. Serve slime nacho cups with plantain chips.
1/4
1
The candidates attended an after noon at a Kentucky Derby-themed din ner held at the Ol’ Railroad Café. Sashes and being social with a delicious meal al lowed the candidates to apply what they learned in the morning workshops. Fort Bend County Fair’s Queen Scholarship Committee, past Fair Queens, board members and staff participated in fes tivities.The queen contestants receive schol arships and prizes as part of the compe tition. The 2022 Fort Bend County Fair Queen will be crowned on September 23rd, 2022. For more information, visit www.fortbendcountyfair.com or call the Fair Office at 281-342-6171.
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com
38
Kilee Reyna, Bailey Helmcamp, Madison Sifuentes, Rianna Crocker, Mallory
Rodriguez, Hailey Tollett, Skylin Bromonsky, Brooke Vaughn, Madison Malek, 2021 Fair Queen Meadow Votis, Estella Westermann, Tristen Drury and Cassidy Watts.
Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital staff with area high school students who participated in the event.
High School students from Lamar CISD and other local area school districts received hands-on health care training at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital. The students participated in a program called the Hands-On Health Care Work shop. As part of the program, students got the opportunity to participate in in teractive health care simulations, includ ing suturing, practicing CPR, inserting IV catheters and playing a game that simu lates robotic assisted surgery.
Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Holds Interactive Workshop with Area Students from a Memorial Hermann cardiologist, surgeon, obstetrician and critical care doctor.“The Lamar CISD Career and Techni cal Education department is excited to partner with Memorial Herman for this educational experience,” said Dr. Kayse Lazar, Executive Director of Career Tech nical Education (CTE) & College, Career, & Military Readiness (CCMR). “These are the kind of real-world, hands-on oppor tunities the District seeks to provide for our students so they can make informed post-secondary decisions. These Health Science students had the opportunity to see what happens on a day-to-day ba sis in the healthcare field because of an amazing business stakeholder willing to invest in our students.”
NEWSWORTHY
“Through Hands-On Health Care, stu dents get a hands-on simulation to learn exactly what doctors and nurses do on a daily basis and that gets them interest ed in health care,” said Dr. Majid Basit, a cardiologist with Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital. “The reason we’re doing this is to excite our youth of to day so they can become the health care workers of tomorrow.”
The students received instruction
The event was such a success Dr. Basit hopes to continue the Hands-On Health Care Workshop next summer.
The Fort Bend County Fair’s Queen Enrichment Day took place in downtown Rosenberg. The 2022 Fair Queen Can didates and 2021 Fair Queen Meadow Fort Bend County Fair Queen Candidates’ Enrichment Day
Votis were part of the day’s events that offered life skills and business etiquette. The day began with a group workshop on interview techniques and social me dia safe practices. Breakout sessions soon followed with public speaking exer cises, make-up tutorials, health and nu trition information, fashion tips, etiquette enhancement and hair 101.
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 l 39
The new Silverado is still a great truck with even more choic es for buyers. It’s a fun time to visit a Chevrolet dealer show room.
2022 CHEVROLET SILVERADO
T he 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 light-duty pickup en tered the new model year with a significantly updated version that offers buyers more choices, more technol ogy and more premium touches. The new Silverado features an elevated exterior design and a new, expressive interior with enhanced technology. The iconic pickup is still as capable as it’s ever been, but for the 2022 model year, buyers have the opportunity to choose exactly what they want their truck to be.
AUTOabsolutelyREVIEW
Along with leather seats and real wood inserts, the Silverado High Country is the only Chevrolet pickup to offer GM’s new Super Cruise technology, the industry’s first true hands-free driver-assistance technology that can be used on more than 200,000 miles of compatible roads in the U.S. and Canada. Su per Cruise allows the pickup to drive itself down the highway, to even change lanes hands-free, although the driver must con tinue to stay alert and keep their eyes on the road ahead.
The first-ever Silverado ZR2 was developed after competing on some of the most grueling, toughest off-road courses to of fer race-proven off-road performance that customers can buy right from the showroom floor. Powered by a standard 420 hp, 6.2L V-8 engine mated with a 10-speed automatic transmis sion, the ZR2 sits on a lifted suspension designed specifically for this truck. The new ZR2 is distinguished by several aesthet ic cues, including a new black hood insert, a unique grille with integrated lighting, ZR2 badges, and off-road 18-inch wheels.
The new interior features a redesigned, sweeping horizontal instrument panel that makes the cabin feel more spacious, along with a new, more functional center console. The 13.4-inch-di agonal color touchscreen and new 12.3-inch-diagonal configu rable digital instrument cluster brings the new Silverado interior on a par with most luxury vehicles costing much more than the new pickup. Both Google Assistant, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capabilities are now standard giving the driver seam less connectivity with their smartphone. Every trim features a new front fascia, which emphasizes the truck’s stability and strength with a wide, planted stance while new daytime running lamps have been programmed with animated walk-up and walk-away functions. But, the two most impressive available trims are the luxurious High Coun try equipped with the new Super Cruise technology and the all-new ZR2 designed from the ground up to take you rockcrawling and desert racing.
By Steve Kursar
To Advertise: 281.798.4910 • kay@absolutelyfocusmedia.com Holiday Entertaining & Dining • Bakeries • Caterers • Restaurants • Boutiques • Gift Shops • Retail • Contractors • Home Décor • Interior Designers • Home Improvement • Furniture • Garden • Florists • Photographers • Event Venues • Entertainers 'Tis The Season Deadline: October 15th Community Community Story & Ad Click Thru to Client Website Special Advertising Rates PLUS A Free Story Advertise Your Business In Our Special Holiday Issue Coming November/December 2022
