SEPTEMBER 2016
AccessHealth Enhances Women’s Health Services
Serving Richmond, Rosenberg, Fulshear & Needville
Fort Bend CORPS' Hearts & Hammers It's Fair Time! 80 Years of
TRADITION Home Is Where THE HEART IS
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CONTRIBUTORS SEPTEMBER 2016
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VOLUME 4
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NUMBER 10
F E AT U R E S 12 THE FORT BEND COUNTY FAIR: 80 YEARS OF TRADITION
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With numerous events, rides, food and entertainment, the annual iconic hometown event promises big time fun.
Joan Frances Contributor Pages 14 & 32
19 HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS
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Use these tips and resources to turn your house into your dream home.
Steve Kursar Auto Enthusiast Page 30
NEWSWORTHY
Laura Villegas, RN, WHNP-BC; Kamilah Dixon-Shambley, MD, MA and Caroline Omori, APRN, FNP-BC. Photo by Nesossi Studios.
6 ACCESSHEALTH ENHANCES WOMEN’S HEALTH SERVICES Fort Bend County is fortunate
to have AccessHealth, a vital non-profit community health center improving the quality of life in our community by meeting health care needs one patient at a time. Now, AccessHealth has added a new OB/GYN clinic inside the agency’s main center in Richmond to better serve patients’ needs through all seasons of life.
Emergency Services
15 KENDRA SCOTT GIVES BACK EVENT
16 SUGAR PLUM MARKET Plans the Ultimate Girls’ Night for Preview Party
18 FORT BEND AGGIE MOMS’ CLUB
Awards Scholarships to Local Texas A&M Students
28 THE FORT BEND CORPS Presents Annual Hearts & Hammers Golf Classic
absolutely! AUTO REVIEW 30 2016 HONDA HR-V
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11 OAKBEND MEDICAL CENTER’S PATCHWORK OF LIFE Benefits Jackson Street’s
Benefiting AccessHealth’s Heart of Fort Bend
COVER STORY
Barbara Magana Robertson Contributor Page 12
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COLUMNS 10 HOMETOWN HEROES:
Adriane Matthews Gray
14 HIGH SCHOOL HOT SHOT Meet Tristan Thompson
32 A LITTLE PIECE OF HISTORY The Railroad Museum: Preserving Rosenberg’s History
IN EVERY ISSUE 4 EXCLAMATION POINTS! 23 COMMUNITY EVENTS 24 OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART OF BRAZOS 31 COMMUNITY MARKETPLACE
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EXCLAMATION POINTS! THE INSIDE SCOOP STRAIGHT FROM THE TOP Publisher, PATTI PARISH-KAMINSKI
To Vote or Not To Vote . . . Voting seems to be top of mind with everyone these days. No matter where you go, the topic of voting enters the conversation. So, what better time to launch our annual Readers’ Choice competition? Now through September 30th, go online at absolutelybrazos.com and vote for the Best of Brazos – your favorite in several categories including food, shopping, entertainment, auto services – even margaritas! So go online and vote, and be Kassidi and Patti Kaminski in sombreros. sure to look to see if your favorite won in Who wore it best? Your vote. our December issue! I know December sounds far away, but the holidays are closer than we think. Just this month, the Fort Bend County Fair kicks off celebrating 80 years of supporting youth education, and once the Fair happens, it seems like the holidays are here before we know it. To help you get your home in tip top shape just in time for those parties and out of town guests, check out our Home Is Where the Heart Is section starting on page 19. And if you want to get a head start on your holiday gift shopping, join us for AccessHealth’s Kendra Scott Gives Back on September 12th. A portion of the sales that night benefit AccessHealth’s annual fundraising event “Heart of Fort Bend,” and it’s a great way to have some fun and give back at the same time. With so many conversations centered around voting and choices right now, I hear much debate over whether voting actually matters – does it make a difference and should we actually participate in the process. Just as I have encouraged you to vote in our The Best of Brazos Readers’ Choice election, I encourage you to participate in any election where you have a choice. But take it from another Texas girl retired Supreme Court Justice of the United States Sandra Day O’Connor who said: “As a citizen, you need to know how to be a part of it, how to express yourself – and not just by voting.” So be part of the process, engage, express yourself and of course, vote where you can. absolutely! yours,
Vol. 4 No. 10 September 2016 4655 TECHNIPLEX DR. STE. 700 STAFFORD, TX 77477 281-690-4242 WWW.ABSOLUTELYBRAZOS.COM
PUBLISHER Patti Parish-Kaminski M A NA G I N G E D I T O R Sarah Bearden SENIOR AC C OUNT EXECUTIVE Jessica Kij AC C OUNT EXECUTIVES Nancy Dunbar Jennifer Elliott Molly Ellis Kay Garrett Andrea Rigamonti Suzanne Stiles A RT D I R E C T O R Grace Belleza GRAPHIC DESIGNER Marinela Taylor WEB DESIGNER Joey Belleza PHOTOGRAPHY Nesossi Studios CONTRIBUTORS Joan Frances Steve Kursar Barbara Magana Robertson O F F I C E A D M I N I S T R AT O R Alexa Goldstein INTERN Nicole Witt INQUIRIES 281-690-4242 E D I T O R IA L S U B M I S S I O N S Sarah@absolutelyfocusmedia.com
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ON THE COVER: Laura Villegas, Dr. Kamilah Dixon-Shambley and Caroline Omori. Photo by Nesossi Studios.
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absolutely! Brazos Magazine is published by absolutely! focus media, 4655 Techniplex Dr., Ste. 700, Stafford, TX 77477. Copyright © 2016 by absolutely! focus media. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. absolutely! Brazos Magazine does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial, nor do the publishers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. absolutely! Brazos Magazine welcomes editorial submissions from its readers.
For more information call 281-341-3094 or email development@obmc.org www.oakbendmedcenter.org/patchwork-of-life
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COVER STORY
Enhances Women’s Health Services
Q
Photo by Nesossi Studios.
uality health care is a key determinant in promoting a person’s wellbeing, and Fort Bend is fortunate to have an organization dedicated to excellence in providing integrated health care that is both affordable and accessible.
AccessHealth is a vital non-profit community health center improving the quality of life in our community by meeting our health care needs one patient at a time. And now, to further serve Fort Bend, AccessHealth has added a new OB/GYN clinic inside the agency’s main center in Richmond to better serve the community’s needs through all seasons of life.
Expanded Health Care for Women Along with its new OB/GYN clinic, AccessHealth has added to its dedicated team of providers. Kamilah Dixon-Shambley, MD, MA is an obstetrician and gynecologist who joined AccessHealth in September 2015. She provides prenatal care and women’s health services at the new OB/GYN clinic. She also provides delivery services for AccessHealth’s prenatal pa-
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Laura Villegas, RN, WHNP-BC; Kamilah Dixon-Shambley, MD, MA and Caroline Omori, APRN, FNP-BC.
tients at OakBend Medical Center. AccessHealth began offering OB/ GYN services with Federal Expanded Medical Capacity (EMC) funding and local support from the Fort Bend Cares Foundation. Patient response has been overwhelmingly positive as evidenced by the growing prenatal patient volume, which has already increased by 18 percent. Before adding OB/GYN services, AccessHealth contracted with a local OB/GYN group in private practice to provide delivery services for its prenatal patients. While this arrangement provided coverage, it did not provide the continuity of care that patients desired. Expectant mothers expressed their preference to receive prenatal care with the provider who will also deliver their babies. “As a direct result of adding OB/ GYN services, moms have consistent care with a doctor they trust, and ba-
SEPTEMBER 2016 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com
bies have a better chance at a healthy start to life,” said Carol Edwards, AccessHealth chief executive officer. Dixon-Shambley earned her MD at Georgetown University and completed her residency at Baylor College of Medicine Obstetrics and Gynecology. Effective March 16th, she was named AccessHealth’s Women’s Health Medical Director. Also within the Women’s Health Department is Nurse Practitioner Laura Villegas, RN, WHNP-BC, who received her training from Columbia University. She joined AccessHealth in 2014 and has been providing prenatal care and women’s health care. Caroline Omori, APRN, FNP-BC is a certified family nurse practitioner. She completed her master’s degree in nursing, Advanced Practice Nursing and her bachelor’s degree in nursing at Texas Woman’s University. She provides HIV care as well as adult care in the Missouri City location.
Women’s Services: Affordable Health Care for Women
A Holistic Approach AccessHealth provides prenatal care to a minimum of 110 expectant mothers each month. There were 166 babies delivered last year through the program. Gracie Antunez, AccessHealth patient since 2010, recently expressed her appreciation for the quality of care she received at the new OB/GYN clinic. “At AccessHealth, I received prenatal care from the same doctor who delivered my baby,” said Antunez. “I appreciate that consistency, because Dr. Dixon-Shambley already knew what had been going on with me from the beginning. She was always patient with me, even when I resisted treatment for blood pressure issues. She would remind me that we need to do what’s best for Karenina, and she always remembers my daughter’s name. It’s been a much better experience here than when
Laura Villegas, RN, WHNP-BC and patient Yadira Reyes.
I had my first two children at another facility in Houston. It’s more personal.” Antunez receives primary care services through AccessHealth’s Family Practice Clinic and psychotherapy services through AccessHealth’s Integrated Behavioral Health Program in addition to prenatal care and delivery services. This holistic approach to health care enhances access to services, improves the quality of care and reduces costs.
Providing Assistance
Patient Melissa Taylor and Kamilah Dixon-Shambley, MD, MA.
AccessHealth conducts outreach throughout Fort Bend County to reach expectant mothers, as well as women and girls of childbearing age. Patients are accepted into AccessHealth’s early prenatal care on a presumptive basis, meaning uninsured patients don’t
Dr. Dixon-Shambley’s for Women’s Health: Tips for Being the Best You Can Be All Year Long • Get Moving: Aim for 30 minutes of exercise daily. It will boost your energy, keep your heart healthy and help keep your bones strong. • Stay Hydrated: Aim for 8 glasses of water a day. If you are not much of a water drinker, find ways to motivate yourself – maybe a fun new water bottle! • Stay Rested: Adults need 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night. Develop good sleep habits by maintaining a bedtime routine and minimizing interruptions to your sleep. • Go Green: Try to make sure you are getting something green with every meal. Replace salty snacks with crunchy vegetables, or whip up a smoothie using spinach, bananas and yogurt. • Stay Positive: Take time each day to reflect on the people and things in your life that you are grateful for. This will help to keep your stress level down.
AccessHealth’s team of highly qualified OB/GYN and health care providers offer comprehensive prenatal care including health education and family planning. Their doctors, along with their support team, diligently manage and care for women’s maternal needs, gynecologic care and a vast variety of other obstetric and gynecology concerns. AccessHealth’s Women’s Services quality care includes: • Well-women gynecological care • Routine exams • Pap smears • Family planning • Prenatal and obstetrical care • Illness prevention and treatment • Gynecologic surgery have to wait to obtain health coverage before being seen. Patient resource coordinators assist uninsured patients in obtaining Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Plan (CHIP) benefits within the first few days of their positive pregnancy test. Fifty-three percent of AccessHealth patients are uninsured. Uninsured women are less likely to receive regular prenatal care and thus are more likely to experience adverse maternal outcomes. According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women’s Health, babies of mothers who do not get prenatal care are three times more likely to have a low birth weight and five times more likely to die than those born to mothers who do get care. Early and regular prenatal care gives doctors the opportunity to identify and treat health problems early. AccessHealth provides integrated health care services without regard to income or circumstance to improve the quality of life in Fort Bend County. AccessHealth is a United Way agency, and the main center in Richmond is recognized as a Patient-Centered Medical Home by the National Committee for Quality Assurance.
Contact Cindy Reaves at 281-633-3169 or creaves@myaccesshealth.org about the enhanced Women’s Health Services at AccessHealth. www.absolutelybrazos.com l SEPTEMBER 2016
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Women’s Health Through the Ages
Take charge of your health and set the path for a healthy future. Ages 50 to 59:
Patient Emily Cortez and Caroline Omori, APRN, FNP-BC.
Teens: 1. Yearly Well Woman Checkups 2. Family Planning 3. Sexual Health – practices and sexually transmitted disease (STD) testing 4. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination
Ages 20 to 29: 1. Yearly Well Woman Checkups – includes screening for blood pressure, weight gain, tobacco and alcohol abuse, thyroid levels, breast exam, mental health issues 2. Pelvic Exam and Pap Smears – starting at age 21 3. Family Planning 4. Sexual Health 5. HPV Vaccination – up to age 26 6. Daily Vitamin D 1,000 IU and Calcium 1,200 mg Through Diet or Supplements for Healthy Bones
Ages 30 to 39: 1. Yearly Well Woman Checkups – includes screening for blood pressure, obesity, tobacco and alcohol abuse, thyroid levels, cholesterol, breast exam and mental health issues 2. Pelvic Exam, Pap Smears and HPV Testing 3. Physical Activity – at least 3 hours per week 4. A Balanced Diet 5. Stress Management
Ages 40 to 49: 1. Yearly Well Woman Checkups – includes screening for chronic conditions, blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, thyroid levels, cholesterol and mental health issues 2. Pelvic Exam, Pap Smears and HPV Testing 3. Mammogram 4. Physical Activity – at least 3 hours per week 5. A Balanced Diet and Portion Control 6. Bone Health – weight-bearing exercises, daily Vitamin D 1,000 IU and Calcium 1,200 mg 7. Transition into Menopause – stay active; maintain a healthy diet 8. Stress Management
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1. Yearly Well Woman Checkups – includes screening for chronic conditions, blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, thyroid levels, cholesterol and mental health issues 2. Pelvic Exam, Pap Smears and HPV Testing – every 3 to 5 years 3. Mammogram 4. Colonoscopy – screening for colon cancer every 10 years 5. Physical Activity – at least 3 hours per week 6. A Balanced Diet 7. Bone Health – weight-bearing exercises, daily Vitamin D 1,000 IU and Calcium 1,200 mg
Ages 60 and Up: 1. Yearly Well Woman Checkups – includes screening for chronic conditions, blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, thyroid levels, cholesterol and mental health issues 2. Yearly Eye and Hearing Exams 3. Pelvic Exam, Pap Smears and HPV Testing – up to age 65 every 3 to 5 years 4. Mammogram 5. Colonoscopy 8. Bone Density Screening and Bone Health – weight-bearing exercises, daily Vitamin D 1,000 IU and Calcium 1,200 mg 6. Vaccines – Yearly Flu, Pneumonia and Shingles 7. Keep an Active Mind to Prevent Cognitive Decline – social activity, reading, writing, puzzles, painting and playing music 8. A Balanced Diet
AccessHealth’s Richmond Center Services The Richmond Center of AccessHealth, recipient of the National Committee for Quality Assurance Patient-Centered Medical Home Recognition, offers several health care services including: • Pediatric Medicine • Family Medicine • Immunizations • Lab Services • Behavioral Health & Case Management • Women’s Services • Pharmacy The Richmond Center is located at 400 Austin Street and features expanded hours of operation: 7 am to 7 pm, Monday through Friday and 8 am to noon, Saturdays. For more information, visit www.myaccesshealth.org or call 281-342-4530.
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Brought to you by
Hometown Heroes:
Adriane Matthews Gray By M.G. Angulo
It
may seem serendipitous that some of the very school halls Adriane Matthews Gray walked as a child, she would return to, this time as an adult with one specific mission – to end childhood hunger in her community. Gray, who is a native to the Richmond-Rosenberg area and a graduate from Lamar Consolidated High School, created Lunches of Love in December 2009 to make sure students who depended on the free and reduced lunch program had a nutritious meal during those times when school was not in session. Weekends, holidays, the summertime break – those often beloved periods away from the classroom many students relish – Gray discovered were dreaded days for some students simply because it meant missed meals. Gray asked herself how children in her own community that she cherishes so much could actually be hungry. With a volunteering background through the HOSTS (Helping One Student To Succeed) program and church missions, Gray decided it was time to open eyes and expose a problem that was running rampant – ignored or unseen – through the streets she had known as a child. Richmond and Rosenberg, collectively, are Gray’s home, heart and soul. She and her husband of 15 years, Chris, and her extended family live in the Twin Cities, and if Gray can do anything to serve her home, she will. So what started out as a shocking conversation about local students going hungry transformed into a movement that captured the attention of many in the area, much like a small snowball that rolls downhill and causes an avalanche. “Children are our future. And no child should go hungry!” Gray proclaimed with passion. “I had a small core team of awesome folks and friends who brainstormed on the logistics, and we took off running,” said Gray about forming the non-profit Lunches of Love. “It has been an amazing, life changing decision for me.” Lunches of Love serves 4,000 plus children, and the program has expanded to include 15 Lamar Consolidated ISD schools and two Fort Bend ISD schools. Some of the schools Lunches of Love serves are the very same schools Gray at-
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tended as a child, and dedicating her energy to those campuses and its students is a feeling so enriching that if it could be bottled up and sold, its manufacturers would be rich beyond measure.
Caleb Combs and Adriane Gray with Sarah, Cameron, Lalah and Alanna Combs.
“Volunteering is truly an amazing experience and very rewarding,” Gray said. “I take great pride in knowing that I have helped play a small role in the lives of the children we feed.” Being involved with Lunches of Love is like breathing to Gray, who said she is “one hundred percent dedicated to the non-profit and ending childhood hunger. “I have found my true passion,” said Gray. While she may have created Lunches of Love and serves as its director, Gray is modest about her role. She simply calls herself a volunteer. The vigor of a community, she said, can be found in its volunteers, the men and women who have the drive of worker bees, motivated and undeterred, to get a job done. “There are many programs and projects that would not exist without volunteers,” Gray explained. “Lunches of Love is one of them. We are 100 percent volunteer-based and driven. “In my opinion, volunteers have an enormous impact on the health and wellbeing of communities. It is an educational process; you learn a lot. It also encourages civic responsibility and makes your community stronger and kinder. Volunteering brings people together, and it’s good for you.”
“I take great pride in knowing that I have helped play a small role in the lives of the children we feed.” – Adriane Matthews Gray
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NEWSWORTHY
This year’s Patchwork of Life event, scheduled for Thursday, October 13th at Safari Texas, is dedicated to “Mending Lives Stitch by Stitch” and will benefit OakBend Medical Center’s Jackson Street Emergency Services. Each year, the emergency care center at Jackson Street has at least 20,000 visits by injured or ill patients. These patients are met with physicians with advanced training in trauma life support and nurses with advanced training in trauma nursing and pediatric care. OakBend Medical Center has worked hard to bring the best emergency care to the residents of Fort Bend County and the surrounding areas. The hospital’s emergency care center is a nowait facility, making sure that patients are immediately taken to a room in the emergency center to meet with a staff member. The emergency care center is emergency medicine certified, stroke certified, STEMI certified and has the only Level III Advanced Trauma Center in Fort Bend County. OakBend Medical Center is equipped with the only permanently-based air ambulance in Fort Bend County. Funds raised at this year’s Patchwork of Life event will be used to upgrade the emergency care center’s facility layout and environment, bringing an additional level of comfort to emergency center patients. For additional information or to purchase tickets or sponsorships, visit www. oakbendmedcenter.org/patchwork-oflife-2016 or call 281-341-3094.
www.absolutelybrazos.com l SEPTEMBER 2016
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The Fort Bend County Fair:
80 Years of Tradition By Barbara Magana Robertson
S
Photo by Bill Robertson – Magana Media.
Glen Templeton returns to the Fair as a 2016 headliner.
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In 1984, the Fair’s entertainment lineup included George Strait, who is still one of the hottest acts in country music. “The Fort Bend County Fair has played an important role in the community, not just as an event that brings families and friends together every year, but also in its mission to support education programs and help kids in Texas achieve their dreams,” said Strait. “Congratulations to the Fair on its 80th anniversary!” This year’s Fair entertainment will kick off with Red Dirt music mainstay Stoney LaRue. Known for his highenergy live shows, LaRue has a huge fan base. William Michael Morgan will headline on Saturday, September 24th. Then on Sunday the 25th, the Fair will celebrate Go Tejano Day with several acts leading up to Bobby and Roberto Pulido’s evening concert. Shinyribs, whose unique onstage presence will keep the crowd entertained and rocking, will return to the Fair on Wednesday, September 28th. The Texas Tornado, Tanya Tucker, will take the stage on Friday, September 30th. Tucker has produced 23 Top 40 albums and 56 Top 40 singles, out of which 10 have reached No. 1 on the Billboard charts. Her best-known songs include Delta Dawn and San Antonio Stroll. Country music’s talented heartthrob Glen Templeton returns on Saturday, October 1st. To wrap up the Fair, the iconic Johnny Lee will perform the songs we all know and love. Funnel cakes, turkey legs, handdipped corn dogs and even tamales will be on the menu for fairgoers to enjoy. Wine aficionados can swirl their glasses to an assortment of selected wines in the Grapes on the Brazos wine room. The popular wine venue welcomes novice wine lovers to hone their wine tasting skills in a relaxed atmosphere. There will be plenty of action for
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thrill-seeking fans. The rodeo will pack the newly renovated O.D. Tucker Arena featuring added stadium seating and side action rough stock chutes. The crowd favorite – Mutton’ Bustin – will keep fans cheering, and a high-flying motorcycle specialty act will return during the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association (PRCA) rodeo nights. Photo by Bill Robertson – Magana Media.
eptember in Fort Bend County is Fair time. This year, the tradition of the Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo will celebrate 80 years of family fun. Grab your hat, dust off your boots and head out for good music, great food and a grand time at the Fair. The 80th Annual Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo will run from September 23rd to October 2nd at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds. For many families, the Fair’s 10 day run is more than an event; it is a tradition passed on from generation to generation. “I showed animals here growing up, and all of my kids have shown animals here and participated in Fair activities, like many other generations of families have done,” said 2016 Fort Bend County Fair President Neil O. Yelderman. “My entire life, my mom and dad took me to the Fair at the old fairgrounds on Avenue H. As a youngster, the week the Fair was in town was right up there with Christmas and my birthday for me.” The talented 2016 entertainment lineup has something for everyone to enjoy. “It is a true mix of musical artists that represent a wide range of music. From hot new country headliners to iconic legends, our lineup is jammed with entertainment,” said Cindy Schmidt, Fort Bend County interim fair manager. “Our Fair works hard to bring the best for our fairgoers.”
The Fair’s carnival features rides and games for patrons of all ages.
Mutton Bustin’ is a crowd favorite among the rodeo’s many events.
The livestock arenas will have grand champion moments as Future Farmers of America (FFA) and 4-H kids compete with their livestock projects. These students range from young, first-time competitors to high school seniors who will be showing their livestock projects for the last time. The 2015 Fort Bend County Fair Association awarded 42 scholarships and five Queen scholarships, totaling over $150,000 to youth representing high schools from all over the county. Through the junior livestock auction, art auction, commercial heifer auction and freezer sale, the Fair is committed to helping youth achieve their educational goals. Yelderman continues to look for ways to grow the auctions and be able to give back. “It is our investment in the future, and in my opinion, it is why we do what we do.” Visit www.fortbendcountyfair.com for a full schedule of events and ticket information.
Houston MEtHoDIst suGAR LAnD nEuRoLoGY AssoCIAtEs wELCoMEs DR. RonY nInAn Houston Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates is pleased to welcome Dr. Rony Ninan to the group. Together, these fellowship-trained physicians offer diagnosis and treatment of the most common — and most complex — neurological disorders, including migraines, sleep disorders, epilepsy, dementia, complex spine and peripheral neurological disorders, neuromuscular disorders, stroke, movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, and more. They provide answers and options using the latest technology and therapeutic techniques, backed by the resources and staff of Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. Toby Yaltho, MD Rony Ninan, MD Carisa Liew, DO Eddie Patton Jr., MD Larry Tran, MD
Regain your quality of life. To schedule an appointment with Houston Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates, call 281.494.6387.
Houston Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates 16605 Southwest Frwy. Medical Office Building Three, Suite 600 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.494.6387 houstonmethodist.org/spg
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High School HOT SHOT
By Joan Frances
Meet Tristan Thompson
F
oster High School in Lamar Consolidated ISD is committed to enabling every student to learn a wide variety of skills to take the next step in their future. Students graduate fully prepared to face the world as confident individuals. One senior who has accomplished an impressive resume of achievements is Tristan Thompson. Tristan has earned a solid base in academics during his high school career. He is a member of the National Honor Society and is taking Advanced Placement classes this year. His forte is theater. He is a member of Foster High School’s theater program and the speech and debate program. He sings, acts and has been engaged in several productions at the school each year. This past year, Tristan played the role of Piraguero in the production In the Heights and Tom in the play Gone Missing. In speech and debate, Tristan competes in duet acting, prose and dramatic interpretation. He has traveled on exciting trips to participate in local, state and national tournaments in the company of his teachers and friends. This past spring, they competed at the state level in Austin and advanced to the quarter finals. His troupe qualified for nationals this past summer and traveled to Nebraska. Tristan played the role of Tommy Ross in the group musical Carrie the Musical. They won a superior title for their performance. In June, Tristan traveled with the theater troupe to New York to tour the city and see some Broad-
Tristan way shows. Tristan has gained undeniable respect from his teachers and peers. He lives by the motto, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Tristan said, “I live by this value, because it’s the Golden Rule from the Bible. I treat people with fairness, kindness and compassion, because that is what we are called to do.” Tristan’s favorite teacher is Kathryn Atkins, his teen leadership teacher. “She really built up my confidence and treated us all like young adults. She is a wonderful listener and cares so much about each of her students. She is certainly a role model for every student in her class and is truly a blessing for all who know her. I will never forget how special she made me feel in class.” During his time outside of school, Tristan earned the Eagle Scout rank, the highest achievement in Boy Scouts. Just four percent of Boy Scouts earn
this rank after years of hard work. Tristan learned much from this experience. “My leadership skills were cultivated during my time as a Boy Scout. I held many leadership roles, which lead to me achieving my Eagle Scout rank. The leadership skills I gained have allowed me to be a leader in theater, speech and debate and have helped me grow to be the person I am today. The discipline it takes to achieve success has helped me continue to push forward and to never give up in everything I do.” Tristan had the privilege of auditioning for several universities in Nebraska and was honored to receive callbacks from several schools including Columbia University, Waldorf University, Texas Christian University and Drake University. He is very excited to audition for universities in Texas and surrounding states this December. Tristan plans to major in theatrical education and musical theater. Congratulations on your talent and ambition Tristan, and good luck as you make an impact on the world in your future.
“The discipline it takes to achieve success has helped me continue to push forward and to never give up in everything I do.” – Tristan Thompson 14
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NEWSWORTHY
Photo from www.kendrascott.com.
Kendra Scott Gives Back Event Benefiting AccessHealth’s Heart of Fort Bend
On Monday, September 12th from 5 to 8 pm, enjoy an evening of networking and shopping at Kendra Scott’s CITYCENTRE store located at 816 Town and Country Boulevard, Suite 131 in Houston. Twenty percent of all purchases made between 6 and 8 pm will benefit AccessHealth’s annual fundraising gala, Heart of Fort Bend. “We invite the community out to attend this fun-filled evening in support of our October event,” said Heart of Fort Bend Co-Chair Patti Parish-Kaminski. “Not only is it the perfect opportunity for the community to network and make some amazing jewelry purchases, but it also supports a vital organization in our community.” Chaired by Parish-Kaminski, Holly Kaminga and Richmond Mayor Evalyn W. Moore, funds raised at Heart of Fort Bend will assist AccessHealth in providing high quality, comprehensive health care for residents of Fort Bend County. The Kendra Gives Back event is open to the public, and champagne and hors d’oeuvres will be served. Transportation pick up is available at 4:30 pm at two locations: Sterling McCall Lexus at 10025 Southwest Freeway in Houston and Gingerbread Kids Academy at 814 Minonite Road in Richmond. The cost for transportation is $20 per person. Tickets to Heart of Fort Bend may be purchased by contacting Cindy Reaves at creaves@myaccesshealth.org or by calling 281-633-3169. For more information, visit www.myaccesshealth.org or contact Reaves.
Salman Aly, MD PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN • Board Certified in Internal Medicine • Experienced in Geriatric and Hospital Medicine • Botox, Dermal Fillers, Low T Syndrome • Hyperbaric & Advanced Wound Care For appointments call:
832-886-4774
Sarfraz Aly, MD INFECTIOUS DISEASE SPECIALIST • Board Certified in Infectious Diseases and Internal Medicine • Hyperbaric & Advanced Wound Care • Travel Medicine For appointments call:
832-886-4994
Now Accepting New Patients At Both Locations In Sugar Land And Wharton Sugar Land: 1201 Creekway Dr. • Suite B Sugar Land, Texas 77478 Wharton: 979-282-6151 • 10141 US 59 • Wharton, Texas, 77488
www.absolutelybrazos.com l SEPTEMBER 2016
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NEWSWORTHY
What could be better than a night of shopping with girlfriends, sampling delicious food and drinks and helping to raise funds for some amazing charities? The Sugar Plum Market Preview Night is the perfect girls’ night out! Patrons will enjoy a fun and festive evening and be the first to shop the “Making Spirits Bright” Market. Presented by the Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) and Memorial Hermann, the 2016 Preview Night will be held Thursday, November 3rd from 6 to 10 pm. “This is our sixth year for Preview Night, and we are excited for our guests to experience some big changes to the evening’s festivities,” said Monica Henderson, Sugar Plum Market co-chair. “Our goal is to have the best girls’ night out party in Fort Bend County, all while raising money for our community.” Tickets are $75 and include Thursday
Sugar Plum Market Plans the Ultimate Girls’ Night for Preview Party
Sugar Plum Market committee members Hillary Watson, Heather Allen, Cara Millas, Heather Brown, Tracy Pipes, Taylor Connor, Jessica Miller, Caroline Bordelon, Amy Stine, Danielle Noonan, Jaynee Tierce, Michaela Brady, Stephanie Reilly, Laura McGowen, Danielle Hames and Katie Harris.
evening advance shopping, a Preview Night drink ticket, light hors d’oeuvres and Market entry Friday and Saturday. The Sugar Plum Market will also be
1 in 8 women will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime.
Coming This October
Focus on the Cure To advertise, call 281-690-4242. 16
SEPTEMBER 2016 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com
open for general admission on Friday, November 4th from 9 am to 8 pm and Saturday, November 5th from 9 am to 5 pm. The 16th annual holiday shopping extravaganza featuring more than 100 vendors will take place at the Stafford Centre Performing Arts Theatre and Convention Center. As in previous years, proceeds from the 2016 Market will benefit various Fort Bend County charities. Sponsorship and underwriting opportunities range from $250 to $10,000 with many benefits, including Preview Night tickets. In addition to the Sugar Plum Market’s title sponsor, Memorial Hermann, top sponsors to date include the City of Stafford, Pamela Printing, Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes, absolutely! focus media, Audi Sugar Land, Randalls and H-E-B. A limited number of Preview Night tickets for $75 and General Admission tickets for $12 will be available online at www.sugarplummarket.com beginning September 1st. General admission tickets may be purchased at select local Randalls stores beginning October 1st, as well as at the door during Market hours. Preview Night patrons are encouraged to purchase tickets early, as the 2015 Preview Night event sold out. Email information@sugarplummarket. com or visit www.sugarplummarket.com for more information.
Coming in January
Here Comes the Bride
Where children come first and where we work together with patients and families to provide exceptional medical care for kids in our community. Amisha Patel, MD
Remember the day you said “I do” like it was yesterday.
Accepting new patients from age 3 days to 18 years Well-child checks Immunizations Christin, Dr. Amisha Patel and Jady.
Same day sick visits
www.justforkidspediatrics.com 418 Park Grove Katy, TX 77450
281-492-0774
Have your wedding details and photos published in print and online in our magazine! If you or your children have recently married and you would like to enter for a chance to be featured in our Here Comes the Bride, all you need is at least ten high-resolution photos of the ceremony and reception. It doesn’t matter where the wedding took place, as long as it was in the last year and you or your parent(s) reside in the Brazos area. Photographers are also welcome to submit photos – all absolutely free!
providing loving expert care
to keep your pet healthy & happy
Complete Wellness Care Dentistry & Surgery Diagnostic & Medical Care Early Morning Drop-offs
832-363-1227 4716 FM 359 Richmond, TX Visit
www.absolutelybrazos.com
www.fostercreekvethospital.com Dr. Michael Moore
State-of-the-Art Medical & Surgical Equipment Highly Skilled & Caring Professionals Early Disease Detection Program
Hours: Monday: 7am - 7pm Tuesday: 7am - 6pm Wednesday: 7am - 6pm Thursday: 7am - 6pm Friday: 7am - 7pm Saturday: 8am - 1pm Sunday: Closed
Dr. Mark Buvinghausen
Dr. Megan Dunn
www.absolutelybrazos.com l SEPTEMBER 2016
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NEWSWORTHY
Fort Bend Aggie Moms’ Club Awards Scholarships to Local Texas A&M Students The Fort Bend County Aggie Moms’ Club, an organization of friendship, education, networking and support, recently announced the recipients of the 2016 scholarships and its
Scholarship winners Garrett Arrington, Joshua Grotte, Ryan Brown, Trevor Schnupp, Emma Gaas, Kathryn Gray, Zachary Ransome, Zachary Miller, Daniel Kaufman, Jennifer Kaufman, Amanda Beaver, Megan Bates, Megan Grahmann and Claudia Picou.
Dr. Katia Lemke, DMD Orthodontic Specialist
• Free Orthodontic Exam & Consultation
graduating seniors. The organization seeks to support students through scholarships and donations to campus organizations by participation in fundraising events throughout the year. The moms come together to learn the things their kids don’t tell them, have fun and share the joys and tears of parenting through the college years. The Federation of Texas A&M University Mothers’ Clubs is a unique organization uniting students’ mothers for the purpose of supporting their children and the university they attend. It is the members’ goal to continue to support their students once they graduate high school and embark on their college careers. The local club exists to give back to the community and its students. Monthly meetings and activities are held in order to raise money to provide scholarships for Texas A&M University students who apply and qualify. This year, during their May 16th meeting, the club awarded 24 scholarships totaling $19,000. Scholarships were awarded to Garrett Arrington, Megan Bates, Amanda Beaver, Ryan Brown, Katherine Cornell, Amy Dodson, Emma Gaas, Megan Grahmann, Kathryn Gray, Joshua Grotte, Kristen Henry, Ciara Jasso, Daniel Kaufman, Jennifer Kaufman, Jackson Klein, Zachary Miller, Macey Mulcahy, Cassidy Papso, Claudia Picou, Zachary Ransome, Victoria Rigsby, Trevor Schnupp, Michael Wang and Anjie Zhi. The Fort Bend County Aggie Moms’ Club also honored graduating seniors Matthew Bolen, Marc DeBolt, Alyssa Edgar, Shelby Edmiaston, Victoria Fortenberry, Julia Gaas, James Travis Garcia, Katrina Godbee, Aaron Griffin, Blake Hermes, Katlyn Jonas, Kelsey Kvinta, Matthew McAllister, Corryn Mills, Megan Mulchay, Lauren Nemec, Sarah Norris, Jennifer Scamardo, Kelly Teague, Paige Tipton and Morgan Williams to congratulate them on all of their success and wish them continued good luck. Whoop! If you have a student at Texas A&M University, including the College Station, Galveston and Blinn Team, and are interested in joining, visit FortBendMoms.AggieNetwork.com for more information.
• Insurance & Flexible Financing Available • Braces for Children & Adults • Advanced Orthodontic Treatment with & Lingual Braces
NEW ADDRESS
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281.277.3555 www.lemkeortho.com 6514 Highway 90A, Ste. 200 • Sugar Land, Tx 77478
New graduates Julie Gaas, Travis Garcia, Morgan Williams, Matthew Bolen and Jennifer Scamardo.
SEPTEMBER 2016 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com
H OME I S W H E R E TH E H E A RT I S
Feel Good About Clearing Clutter
S
eptember is the perfect month for making new family memories. It is also great for taking some time to recall previous ones often found in items around the house. From those old baby clothes and toys to books and dusty tech that haven’t been touched in years, these “memories” may be cluttering your home. Spend some time as a family to clear out what you no longer need. For some extra motivation, approach your cleaning with a fresh perspective. Donating your gently-used items will help others while freeing up space for new memories. Get on your way to a cleaner, less cluttered home with these six tips.
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Don’t save the worst for last. Avoid the temptation to leave your messiest catch-all room for the end. Instead, tackle it first and spend extra time thinking about where you can reassign some of the clutter, so it’s not all accumulating in a single room.
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Sort your stuff into piles. In every room, you will find items you need to keep close at hand, others you would like to keep but could be stashed away, things that may have value to others and stuff that simply needs to be trashed.
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Take it one room at a time. Whether you live in a modest apartment or a sprawling, single-family home, overhauling your entire living space at once is an overwhelming prospect. Instead, focus on one room at a time with a timeframe that makes sense for your schedule.
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Give items meaning. Take a cue from stylist, author and television host Emily Henderson, and implement a rule that items you keep should be at least two of three things: functional, sentimental and beautiful. If an item is none of these – like an old food storage container without a lid – toss it. Especially if you are low on space, only hang on to those items that serve two or more roles.
Look for ways to give back. While it sometimes makes sense to resell unwanted items online or through a yard sale, donating is another way to give these goods a second life and help bring warmth, happiness and smiles to others. Through its Glad to Give program, the Glad Products Company makes donating easy. Fill a Glad ForceFlex bag, stretch it and stuff it with just about anything you want to donate. Clothing is one of the best things to donate so others can make better use of the gently-loved items you are hoarding, Henderson said. Unless a garment has been worn in the last four seasons, donate it. Other prime candidates for donating: toys, sports equipment, DVDs and home gadgets.
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Organize what remains. Once you’ve cleared the clutter and determined which items will stay, find attractive ways to create order and manage the mess. You can choose from a wide range of organizational options – everything from shelves and baskets to storage furniture and closet systems – to help make the most of your space and reveal more inviting rooms that make you feel comfortable at home. Visit GladtoGive.com to find resources for giving back, and schedule a free local donation pickup for an organization of your choice. Source: Family Features.
www.absolutelybrazos.com l SEPTEMBER 2016
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Advertorial
H OME I S W H E R E TH E H E A RT I S Finance Home America
Finance Home America, a division of Eustis Mortgage Corp (EMC), is a fullservice, professional mortgage banker offering a host of diverse and flexible loan products that meet the needs of customers. Whether a borrower is interested in purchasing a home, refinancing their current home or renovating their space, Finance Home America is here to help borrowers find the loan options that fit their individual needs. EMC is an established, well recognized mortgage banker and a family owned entity in business since 1956. They offer financing on all types of loans, including FHA, VA, USDA, conventional, jumbo, renovation lending and the Texas Veterans Land Board. This includes primary residences, second homes and investment properties. For homes that have deferred maintenance, unfinished rooms or are in need of TLC, buy “as is” and roll in the costs of the renovations – one loan, one closing! All of the processing, underwriting and closing is performed in Stafford with a staff that has been together for over 20 years. Unlike most mortgage bankers, their operations staff is available to meet with borrowers, Realtors and builders to discuss individual loans and to keep abreast of the many changes occurring in the business. They conduct training classes to clients relating to a vast array of topics, from product guidelines, sharing marketing strategies and designing marketing material to assisting clients in their individual business endeavors. For more information, email mylena@financehomeamerica.com or call 281242-1025.
Building Custom Homes Throughout Fort Bend and Beyond One family has been providing distinctive homes unparalleled in quality, reliability and beauty. Campbell Garrett Distinctive Homes is a family owned building company operating throughout southeast Texas. They offer the perfect solution for those looking to build a new home outside of a traditional community. The company’s Build-on-Your-Lot program is available to landowners with urban or rural property and allows home buyers to build from their plan, select from thousands of Campbell Garrett Distinctive Homes’ plans or work with one of their award-winning designers. The program is the perfect solution for a variety of home buyers looking for a home builder who is a craftsman dedicated to superior construction and attention to detail. Because Campbell Garrett Distinctive Homes understands what it takes to build homes to clients’ complete satisfaction, they developed a step-by-step program to ease the pressures of building a home. They have a one-stop, inhouse design center for interior and exterior designer selections and a personal interior designer who works with each client to make the selection process easier. The Build-on-Your-Lot program is completely comprehensive and designed to help even the most discriminating home buyer. Let Campbell Garrett Distinctive Homes build your new home, a reflection of your unique tastes and desires. Campbell Garrett Distinctive Homes is located at 207 Morton Street in Historic Downtown Richmond. Stop by their office or attend one of their seminars to learn more about their unique custom home build approach. For more information, visit www.CampbellGarrett.com or call 832-865-3444.
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SEPTEMBER 2016 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com
KW Southwest’s Commitment to Clients and Community KW Southwest continues their commitment to the highest standards of client satisfaction and to giving back in their communities. It is evident in their devotion to training and providing quality education for their agents, who are encouraged to build careers worth having, businesses worth owning and lives worth living. Ruhina Ahmed is a perfect example of KW Southwest’s commitment to clients. With over 12 years of experience, she enjoys helping new agents find their confidence. She is also fluent in English, Hindu, Urdu and Punjabi. Because of the diversity in the area, Ahmed’s ability to communicate and assist clients navigate the home buying and selling process is pivotal in helping them feel at home in their new community. KW Southwest also presents an agent each year with the Eagle Award, recognizing those agents who demonstrate leadership through service, courage through adversity and integrity in all things. Gary Steuernagel is a recent recipient, winning in 2013 and 2016. With over 20 years of experience, he makes every effort in his interactions with clients to educate them about the process so they have a better understanding of the negotiations, process and risks of any transaction. His goal is to help clients achieve their goals. On the community front, KW Southwest recently continued their commitment to the BP MS 150, which they have supported for many years. This year, 32 KW Southwest riders entered the 150 mile race to raise over $25,000 dedicated to research and development for treatments and therapies for multiple sclerosis. For more information, visit www. kwsw.com. See ad on page 3.
H OME I S W H E R E TH E H E A RT I S FINANCE HOME AMERICA, a division of Eustis Mortgage Corporation, Family Owned and Operated Since 1956
FHA, VA, TEXAS VETERANS LAND BOARD, CONVENTIONAL CONFORMING, USDA, LOAN AMOUNTS TO $3 MILLION.
Renovation Lending Partner With Finance Home America
AFTER BEFORE
Specializing in renovation loans benefiting homebuyers, Realtors and homeowners who need to renovate due to catastrophic events such as flooding or simply want to update their current home. Borrower chooses the improvements – complete after closing. Enjoy the convenience of one closing for both mortgage AND improvements.
AFTER BEFORE
REALTORS
HOMEBUYERS AND/OR PRESENT HOMEOWNERS
Sell more homes faster-get rid of aged inventory. Introduce these programs as a solution for sellers who have deferred maintenance or unfinished “anything.” Sell homes “as is” and in need of “TLC.” Let the homebuyers select their preferred appliances, flooring, cabinetry, etc.
Remodel any room - kitchen, bathroom, flooring, roof, windows, siding OR add a room and/or addition. Completely reconstruct your home. Buy and renovate OR refinance your current mortgage and renovate. LOVE IT OR LIST IT-FIX UP VS. MOVE UP! Programs for primary residences, second home and investment properties.
Contact Mylena Alred • Office 281-242-1025 • Cell 713-504-1988 Mylena@financehomeamerica.com www.FinanceHomeAmerica.com RMLO NMLS#131851
Processing, underwriting and closing in our TX corporate office: 12603 SW Freeway # 680, Stafford, TX 77477 NMLS#70345
CAMPBELL GARRETT DISTINCTIVE HOMES
Your Land. Our Expertise. Plan design service, builder showroom & precision craftmanship... Campbell Garrett Distinctive Homes makes it easy for you to build the perfect place to call home.
Building throughout Fort Bend County, Houston and beyond! 207 Morton Street • Richmond, TX • Call: 832-865-3444 • www.CampbellGarrett.com www.absolutelybrazos.com l SEPTEMBER 2016
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Advertorial
H OME I S W H E R E TH E H E A RT I S
Grand Mission Estates Touts Ample Selection, Inviting Amenities Highland Homes and Plantation Homes are giving home buyers plenty of choices in Grand Mission Estates, an amenity-rich development in Richmond. Plantation Homes and Highland Homes build in the 50 and 60-foot sections of the community. Plantation Homes offers 11 designs on 50-foot homesites, priced from the $250,000s, as well as 14 plans on 60-foot properties, priced from the $300,000s. Highland Homes’ pricing also is from the $250,000s for the 13 plans offered for 50-foot homesites. Homes on 60-foot properties start from the $290,000s. The builder offers 10 designs in that neighborhood. The designs feature such coveted amenities as open floor plans, expansive outdoor living areas and island kitchens. A wealth of options and designer upgrades – media rooms, extended master suites, hardwood flooring and more – allow buyers to customize their homes to fit their specific needs. Residents of Grand Mission Estates enjoy an expansive pool complex with water slides, a lap pool, a lagoon pool with spray toys and a splash pad. Within walking distance is a second recreation area situated along the lake that includes a pool and playground. Other amenities include a fitness center, basketball court, soccer field, playgrounds, trails and community lakes. Students attend Juan Sequin Elementary, David Crockett Middle School and George Bush High School in the highly regarded Fort Bend ISD. A project of McGuyer Homebuilders, Inc., parent company of Plantation Homes, Grand Mission Estates is conveniently located south of the Westpark Tollway between the Grand Parkway and Highway 6. Visit www.GrandMissionEstatesTX.com for more information.
Models Open Daily! You’ll find everything you’ll need in Grand Mission Estates – elegant homes by respected builders, inviting amenities, top schools and easy access to shopping, dining and employment. Why sacrifice when you can have it all in Grand Mission Estates?
2 Recreation Centers 38 Acre Lake Fort Bend ISD
50’ and 60’ Homesites from the mid $200s
Special Advertising Section
Coming November 2016
'Tis The Season Holiday Entertaining & Dining
GrandMissionEstatesTX.com
To Advertise: 281.690.4242 • absolutelybrazos.com 22
SEPTEMBER 2016 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com
Prices subject to change without notice.
EVENTS
September 3rd and 5th, 12:30 pm Labor Day Backyard Barbecue Celebrate Labor Day weekend with period games and an old-fashioned barbecue at the George Ranch Historical Park, located at 10215 FM 762 in Richmond. Listen to 1930s music, sample handcranked ice cream and play fun games from the past. The barbecue lunch includes beef brisket, mesquite con pollo, cowboy beans, potato salad, cole slaw, fruit cobblers, bread pudding and more! Call 281-343-0218 to make a meal reservation. Visit www.georgeranch.org.
September 10th, 10 am – 3 pm Cars & Crafts in Richmond The Historic Richmond Association presents an afternoon of fun at City Hall on Morton Street in Richmond. Savannah Adkins will perform from 11 am until 2 pm, and there will be food trucks along with the restaurants on Morton Street. Cars are welcome to park. There is no entry fee. Contact historicrichmondassociation@gmail.com.
September 17th, 9 am – 1 pm Friends of the Library Annual Book Sale
September 23rd – October 2nd The Fort Bend County Fair...Uncorked
Discover great bargains at the Fulshear/Simonton Branch Library, located at 8100 FM 359 South in Fulshear. The sale includes gently-used adult and children’s books, magazines, DVDs and videos, all at prices that range from 25¢ for paperback books up to $5 for select hardback books. Funds raised help underwrite the costs of special programming and cultural events at the libraries. Call 281-633-4675.
Enjoy a glass of wine or two at Grapes on the Brazos, the high styled Fort Bend County Fair event at 4310 Highway 36 South in Rosenberg in Building W. There will be several white and red wines to taste, beverages, nighttime entertainment and area restaurants serving heavy hors d’oeuvres. To purchase pre-sale wine tickets, contact the Fair Office at 281-342-6171. Proceeds help contribute to scholarships and other opportunities for the youth of Fort Bend County. For a full schedule of events, visit www.fortbendcountyfair.com.
September 20th, 7 pm Texas Rangers and Their History Dr. Nicholas Cox, a U.S. History professor at Houston Community College and the University of Houston-Victoria, will discuss the formation and history of the Texas Rangers and their effect on the development of law enforcement in Texas. The presentation will be held at the George Memorial Library, located at 1001 Golfview in Richmond. Call 281-342-4455.
RosenbeRg Ccenter aRpet & FlooRing Since 1958
What’son on your your floor matters. What’s floor matters!
Wood Floor Refinishing Wood & Laminate Flooring Ceramic Tile Flooring Counter Tops Commercial & Residential 1006 1st Street • Rosenberg, Texas
WWW.ROSENBERGCARPET.COM • 281.342.5193 September 10th, Noon – 8 pm Veterans Helping Veterans Support local veterans at a fundraising party hosted by the Houston Combat Veterans TX 23-4 at The County Line Bar and Grill, located at 19412 FM 1093 in Richmond. The event features live music, a barbecue lunch, live and silent auctions, a raffle and guest appearances, and proceeds benefit five local veteran servicing charities. Visit http://txcvma23-4.org.
Your Home for General Dentistry • Fastbraces • Extractions • Teeth Whitening • Sports Mouth Guards • Full Smile Makeovers 7417 West Grand Parkway S., • Root Canal Treatment Ste. 140 Richmond, TX 77407 • Tooth-Colored Fillings • Gum Disease Treatment and Prevention (Located next to the Santikos Palladium AVX Theatre) • Replacement of Missing and Fractured Teeth • We see children of all ages
281-232-8300
houstonserenedental.com
Military & First Responder Discounts. We thank you for your service.
Dr. Rachel Perry
New Patient Special
INCLUDING Full Patient Exam Full X-Ray & Regular Cleaning
(Regular Value $333) Some restrictions may apply.
www.absolutelybrazos.com l SEPTEMBER 2016
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OUT & ABOUT
Amidst the twinkling lights of The Swinging Door, the Rotary Club of Richmond inducted new President Rosie Karlberg. Emceed by Jeff Tallas, the event also included an awards presentation, including Angel Spirit to Steve Onstad, Rising Star to Becky Watts and Rotarian of the Year to Eric Junker.
IN THE HEART BRAZOS
Eric Liu, Liz Moreno, Rosie Karlberg and Jeff Tallas.
Foster High School junior Emma Shivers is the Texas FFA Champion in the Senior Prepared Public Speaking Animal Science Division. Gene Editing in Livestock was the topic of her eight-minute speech. She received her award at the 88th annual Texas FFA Convention.
Since the recent Brazos River flooding, Attack Poverty staff and volunteers have spent countless hours cleaning, pressure washing, disinfecting and removing mold infested debris out of area residents’ homes to make them safe to begin the rebuilding process. Brandon Baca, Carlos Sandoval and Asher Baca.
Emma Shivers.
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SEPTEMBER 2016 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com
The Pokémon Go craze has many kids gathering outdoors. Gotta catch ‘em all! Katie Kitto, Brian Wu, Chloe Mills, Riley Carroll and Natalie Helms trapped Pokémon at Fieldstone Park.
Richmond’s Music in the Park expanded to a summer music series. One Friday evening during each of the summer months, a musical artist performed at the gazebo in Wessendorff Park. The series provided a family-friendly atmosphere for locals to listen to a variety of good music.
The Fluor Foundation recently donated $20,800 to the Lamar Educational Awards Foundation (L.E.A.F.) to underwrite science, technology engineering and math (STEM) programs. L.E.A.F. supports creative ideas and classroom projects of Lamar CISD teachers that would otherwise go unfunded.
Janice Knight accepted the to L.E.A.F. donation from Tim Palmore.
Guitarist Sean Heyl.
Over 500 Lamar and Terry High School alumni celebrated a fun evening at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds featuring music by the highly energetic Spazmatics. Old and new friendships were made along with lots of laughs, memories, dancing and conversations.
Michele Beard, Jamie Harris and Sherry Bailey.
Darin and Christine Wheeless with Mark Edwards.
Vicki Seely, Barbara Johnson and Evalyn Moore.
Erica Lynn Martinez, Diana Butinski, Dylan Knight and Rob Tobias.
Stephanie Lockridge, Joslyn Wilson, Kim Bolden and Kristi Council.
Jamie Friedli and Tony Montya.
www.absolutelybrazos.com l SEPTEMBER 2016
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OUT &
ABOUT IN THE HEART BRAZOS
absolutely! focus media was pleased to have Nicole Witt as a bright and helpful summer 2016 intern! Nicole is a sophomore telecommunication media studies major at Texas A&M University.
Lunches of Love’s amazing summer volunteers helped stuff over 4,000 lunches each day!
Marina Roberts and Shelly Munoz.
Ellen Fairfield celebrated the halfway point!
Chloe Mills, Riley Carroll and Brian Wu earned service hours for the National Junior Honor Society at Lunches of Love.
Greyson Simoneaux.
Heather Carroll, Adriane Gray, Ashlyn Carroll and Eden Fairfield.
Fort Bend residents participated in Shop and Dance for Local Veterans featuring vendor booths, a Zumbathon and a yoga session. Army veteran Celso Pacheco, Jr. shared on behalf of Mission22 how the community can make a positive difference in a veteran’s life. Esmeralda and Celso Pacheco, Jr.
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Veronica Evanicky and Cyndia Rodriguez.
SEPTEMBER 2016 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com
OakBend Medical Center employees showcased their July 4th spirit with a Sweets & Treats Bake-Off Contest. The homemade cakes and desserts were designed and prepared by OakBend employees at each of the campuses. Winners received gift baskets, and the entries were devoured by employees.
The City of Fulshear celebrated the Fourth of July with Freedom Fest. A huge crowd filled the streets of Fulshear to celebrate the 4th with music and a fireworks extravaganza.
First place winner Felipa Velasquez.
Judges Eric Steffel, Angela Vargas, Cynthia McConathy and Robert Wolter.
Amy Campbell, Tammy Daniels and Kristi Council.
Second place winner Lois Fitzgerald.
Third place winner Regan Packard.
Brazos Bend State Park and the George Observatory reopened to the public in July after the historic flooding in May. Nature lovers and stargazers came out to enjoy the beauty of this Fort Bend attraction.
Grace and Joey Belleza enjoyed the sights and sounds of the park’s scenic terrain.
Dave and Mandy Lowe.
Adam and David Belleza visited one of three domed telescopes at the George Observatory, which houses the 36-inch Gueymard Research Telescope, one of the largest in the United States.
Carlton Floyd, Kevin Council and Guillermo Castillo.
www.absolutelybrazos.com l SEPTEMBER 2016
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OUT & ABOUT
Fort Bend Cares supporters celebrated the awarding of grants to 29 heroic non-profits serving disadvantaged children in Fort Bend County at Safari Texas Ranch. Through the generosity of event sponsors and other donors, Fort Bend Cares distributed $157,500 to these organizations.
IN THE HEART BRAZOS
Diane Clark and Lynda Wiles.
Liz Furman and Sharlene Jacobson.
Bob McClendon and Jim Rice.
NEWSWORTHY
The Fort Bend CORPS Presents Annual Hearts & Hammers Golf Classic
Andrew Paderanga, Sheena Navarro, Bob Hebert, Bob Brown III, Nell Ciancarelli and Mike Moleski.
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Mary Favre and Greg Haralson.
Angie Wierzbicki, Melinda Henry and Terri Nieser.
On September 19th, the Fort Bend CORPS will host its Annual Hearts & Hammers Golf Classic at Meadowbrook Farms Golf Club in Fort Bend County. This year’s tournament will honor The Honorable Fort Bend County Judge Bob Hebert and one of the CORPS founders, Robert C. “Bob” Brown III. All proceeds from the tournament will benefit the Fort Bend Community Revitalization Projects (CORPS), a 501 (c)3 non-profit corporation. The Fort Bend CORPS’ mission is to revitalize low-income neighborhoods in Fort Bend County by engaging public and private partnerships and community involvement. Monetary donations are used to purchase paint and building materials for volunteer crews and to pay contractors for more extensive repairs beyond the capability of a volunteer crew. The CORPS relies heavily on funding from the private sector, faith based community, foundation grants and in-kind donations from businesses and individuals. In its 17 years of existence, the Fort Bend CORPS has completed over 3,800 repair projects on over 2,500 homes in Fort Bend County. Sponsorships for the annual golf tournament make a difference. Consider a donation to the live auction, tournament sponsorship or by forming a team and having a great day of golf with the Fort Bend CORPS. Visit www.fbcorps.org or call 281-617-7416 or for more information.
SEPTEMBER 2016 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.absolutelybrazos.com
What’s your favorite? Vote through September 30th Vote for your favs in our Readers’ Choice of Brazos’ Favorites, and see who wins the title of absolutely! The Best in the December 2016 issue. Visit absolutelybrazos.com
www.absolutelybrazos.com l SEPTEMBER 2016
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absolutely! AUTO REVIEW By Steve Kursar
2016 HONDA HR-V The 2016 Honda HR-V is all-new and Honda’s first entry into the compact SUV/crossover segment. Its arrival into the game is a little late, but this little vehicle is a sure winner. If you like the way SUVs give you a great view of the road but don’t want to haul around a large vehicle, then the HR-V should be right at the top of your list. It’s remarkably fuel efficient and roomy for its size. And as a Honda, you can expect it to be well made and reliable. Honda has been designing and building efficient and reliable cars since the 1960s. They first got attention in the United States by introducing small, peppy motorcycles that were easy to ride and immediately caught on with young people, because they were fun and affordable. Honda then started marketing small, fuel efficient cars that became highly popular on American highways during the OPEC gas crisis. And while the market for Honda’s Accord and Civic sedans continued to grow, the Japanese carmaker was a bit slow to pick up our love for riding tall on the highway. With a base MSRP of $19,215, the Honda HR-V is only available with one engine option, a 141 hp, 1.8 liter four cylinder
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powerplant. It may not propel the vehicle to a blazing zero to 60 time. But, it is more than adequate, and it does get great fuel economy for an SUV with fuel economy numbers of 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. There is an all-wheel drive model, but don’t expect to take it off-road.
The 2016 Honda HR-V has a dynamic, solid stance and a tapered fascia that gives off a sporty feel as if you’re driving a small coupe. A cool feature for drivers who like to maximize their fuel economy is ECO Assist, which changes the color of the speedometer from white to green when you drive more economically. The interior space behind the front seats is awfully spacious due to a center-mounted fuel tank layout that enables the second row seats to fold completely flat into the floor, creating a more spacious and versatile interior package. The Honda HR-V is the perfect alternative for empty nesters who like driving an SUV but no longer need a large one that fits all the kids. You might miss the children, but you won’t miss the big bill at the fuel pump. Follow Steve Kursar at KursarOnCars.blogspot.com.
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A LITTLE PIECE O F HIST O RY By Joan Frances
The Railroad Museum:
Preserving Rosenberg’s History
The Rosenberg Railroad Museum Gallery is a reproduction of the Rosenberg Santa Fe Depot with the 1972 MoPac Caboose in the background.
The Rosenberg Railroad Museum’s Tower 17 is the only building that was a part of the original railroad structure.
T
here are events in the history of Fort Bend County that are considered pivotal to its growth and expansion. Stephen F. Austin and the Old Three Hundred settlers were the first to see the value in the area’s terrain and climate, and they initiated farming and ranching. Despite contending with Native Americans, wild animals and the weather, the settlers did not give up. When railroads were built through the small towns, prosperity commenced. Transportation of passengers, gold bullion, silver, animals and crops enabled commerce from city to city. For over 129 years, the railroad has been a driving force behind Rosenberg’s growth, and the Rosenberg Railroad Museum is a tribute to its magnitude. In 1883, Henry Von Rosenberg, a Swiss immigrant and the first president of the Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railway (GC&SF), founded the city after his name. In 1873, Rosenberg and the Sealy brothers made plans to build the railroad, bypassing the Houston route and extending to Temple, Texas. The City of Richmond already had the Galveston, Harrisburg and San Antonio Railroad serving the town, so the GC&SF engineers laid the track one mile from the courthouse to avoid the town proper. By 1880, the railroad had expanded to the Rosenberg Junction, a depot was built, and this small town began to grow. In 1883, the railroad bought and platted a 200 acre site with a central square between the Brazos River and
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the railroad. In 1882, the New York, Texas and Mexican Railway was orchestrated by Count Joseph Telfener, an Italian investor and engineer, who was given liberal land grants that the state offered to encourage railroad construction. Nicknamed the “Macaroni Line” because of the pasta diet of the Italian laborers, they completed 91 miles of track to Victoria. As a result of these railroads, Rosenberg became a center for trade and commerce.
Night crew of a train in Rosenberg. Photo from Historic Fort Bend County.
In 1992, a group of insightful Rosenberg citizens took an interest in preserving Fort Bend County’s railroad history. In 1993, committee chairman Judge Larry Wagenbach persuaded the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway Company to donate 1.47 acres of land for the purpose of building the Rosenberg Railroad Museum. Later that year, the first artifact was purchased from an auction at George Ranch, an 1879 business railcar named Quebec. None of Rosenberg’s original
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railroad structures survived except for Tower 17, which was still in service. Several fundraisers were held in an effort to financially prepare for the museum’s building structure, foundation and restoration of the railcar. By 1998, construction began on the museum modeled after the original Rosenberg depot that served the Santa Fe and Southern Pacific Railroads from 1883 to 1917. Rosenberg residents gathered relics such as maps, photographs, lanterns, railroad tickets, badges, tools, locks and keys, brochures, timetables and vintage furniture. The community generously donated these items to the museum in an effort to preserve the memories of the past for the public to see. Thousands of patrons from all over Fort Bend County celebrated the Museum’s Grand Opening June 6 through 8, 2002. A tour began in the depot with a short film, followed by a walk down memory lane as visitors viewed cases of memorabilia, the outside rail car, caboose and finally, a detailed miniature railroad system. With so much to offer the community, the Rosenberg Railroad Museum continues to host festivals in conjunction with Rosenberg’s Historic Downtown District to educate the public and preserve Rosenberg’s history. Located at 1921 Avenue F, the museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday from 1 to 5 pm. For more information, visit www. rosenbergrrmuseum.org or call 281633-2846.
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