February 2013 - Absolutely Brazos Magazine

Serving Richmond, Rosenberg & Fulshear

FEBRUARY 2013

Richmond’s New Mayor

ROMANCING

Moore:

Your Home VALENTINE'S DAY

GIFT GUIDE

The Legacy Continues

Who Is Fort Bend's

TOP CHEF?

+ SUMMER

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FUN GUIDE

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CONTRIBUTORS

FEBRUARY 2013

|

VOLUME 1

|

NUMBER 3

10

14

28

COVER STORY

F E AT U R E S 16

26

SUMMER FUN GUIDE Summer is the time for kids to kick back, relax and have fun! Peruse the pages and get a jump-start on your summer plans.

THINGS WE LOVE: VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT GUIDE Find the perfect gift for that special someone!

HOME 10

ROMANCING YOUR HOME Prepare your home for a fabulous Valentine’s Day with a few new, dynamic changes.

4

NEWSWORTHY 20

WHO IS FORT BEND COUNTY’S “TOP CHEF?” Find out at Men Who Cook

25

LITERACY COUNCIL ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP Blue Willow Bookshop for Reading Between the Wines

Lauren Dante Writer Page 14

Joan Frances Writer Page 28

IN EVERY ISSUE

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RICHMOND’S NEW MAYOR MOORE: THE LEGACY CONTINUES On December 17, 2012, Evalyn Wendt Moore was sworn in as the first female mayor in Richmond’s history. Asked by City Commissioners to fulfill her late husband’s term, the new Mayor Moore concentrates on fulfilling Mayor Hilmar Moore’s vision and legacy: making Richmond a great place to live, work and raise a family.

Caron Lopez Grand Windows & Interiors Page 10

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EDITOR’S POINT OF VIEW

18

COMMUNITY EVENTS

22

OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART OF BRAZOS

MEDICAL & BUSINESS 12

BUSINESS BRIEFS Recent Ribbon Cuttings

COLUMNS 14

HIGH SCHOOL HOT SHOT Joshua Okonye: Field of Dreams

28

A LITTLE PIECE OF HISTORY A Rich History in Richmond

FEBRUARY 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

ON THE COVER:

Richmond Mayor Evalyn Moore with the bronze statue of her late husband, Mayor Hilmar G. Moore, at Richmond’s City Hall.

Photos by Nesossi Studios

BACK PAIN? NECK PAIN? The Spine Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is the comprehensive, coordinated option for you in Fort Bend County.

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Connect with us. www.absolutelybrazos.com l FEBRUARY 2013

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EXCLAMATION POINTS! THE INSIDE SCOOP STRAIGHT FROM THE TOP Editor-in-Chief, PATTI PARISH-KAMINSKI Now that we are one month into 2013 and despite the fact that we fell of the fiscal cliff, our optimism shines bright in Brazos. There’s so much our community has to look forward to in the coming year, and absolutely! Brazos is so excited to be a part of all that is going on in the West Bend.

Speaking of major happenings, for the Patti, Kolton, Kassidi and Tim Kaminski at first time in 63 years, the City of RichFish Creek Falls in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. mond has a new mayor. Same last name, same philosophy of service, same vision but a new face. With the passing of Texas icon Mayor Hilmar G. Moore, his wife, Evalyn Wendt Moore, was sworn into office in December. I had the privilege to attend the new Mayor Moore’s swearing in ceremony, as well as interview her during both a difficult and hopeful time, and let me just say, the citizens of Richmond are in good hands. Excellent choice, Commissioners Dostal and Gillen.

February is the month of love, and for us girls, Valentine’s Day is always something we look forward to. To help our gentlemen out and steer them in the right direction, take a look at our Valentine’s Gift Guide on page 26. Some of my personal favorite places are in there – hint, hint!

One of the most exciting happenings in February will be with our sister magazine Fort Bend Focus. This month, Fort Bend Focus celebrates our 100th issue of bringing the people, places and happenings to Fort Bend. It is a major milestone for absolutely! focus media, and now, we begin to work on bringing you 100 issues of absolutely! Brazos. We’ll get there – with your help – and we will celebrate big!

Let us know what you and your neighbors are up to in Brazos, and Happy Valentine’s Day! absolutely! yours,

Vol. 1 No. 3 | February 2013 4655 TECHNIPLEX DR. STE. 400 STAFFORD, TX 77477 281-690-4242 WWW.ABSOLUTELYBRAZOS.COM

EXECUTIVE PUBLISHERS

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

Patti Parish-Kaminski AC C OUNT EXECUTIVES

Susan Dannhaus Kay Garrett Melissa Huckabee Jessica Kij Michelle Moore Henry Pineda, Jr. A RT D I R E C T O R

Grace Belleza

A RT & P R O D U C T I O N C O N S U LTA N T

Joey Belleza

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Chris Hernandez Jesse McPeek

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

Sarah Greeson

A D M I N I S T R AT I V E DIRECTOR

Erin Sanders

CONTRIBUTORS

Lauren Dante Joan Frances Caron Lopez

editor@absolutelybrazos.com

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Subscription requests are free to West Fort Bend area addresses. Annual paid subscription of $25 required outside West Fort Bend area. absolutely!TM Magazines are published by absolutely! Focus Media, 4655 Techniplex Dr., Ste. 400, Stafford, TX 77477. Copyright © 2013 by absolutely! Focus Media. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. absolutely!TM Magazines does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial, nor do the publishers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. absolutely!TM Magazines welcomes editorial submissions from its readers.

The story goes that one day Moore attended a Lions Club luncheon and was asked by a group of friends if he was interested in serving the unexpired term of the current mayor who had just resigned.

Moore indicated he would like some time to think it over. His friends urged him to think fast because he was being sworn in at 4 pm that very day. That day was in September of 1949.

COVER STORY

By Patti Parish-Kaminski Photos by Nesossi Studios

The Future of Richmond

Richmond’s New Mayor Moore:

Legacy

The

Continues

O

n Tuesday, December 4, 2012, an era ended in Richmond, Texas. Hilmar G. Moore passed away at age 92 after being hospitalized for a lengthy illness. But Moore wasn’t only an esteemed resident, community servant and philanthropist for Richmond; Moore was the mayor of the town of 12,000 for over 63 years. He is believed to be the longest serving mayor in the United States and won 32 consecutive elections including the most recent election held in May 2012 when he ran unopposed.

So how did this sixth generation cattle rancher, World War II veteran, businessman and Native Texan become a Texas legend and revered public servant for over 63 years? And, what happens to the City of Richmond now?

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FEBRUARY 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

Fast forward 63 years of Mayor Moore’s “no nonsense, hands-off” approach to governing the city and the residents he so deeply cared about, and you will find a city that has grown by nearly 10,000 in the six decades under the mayor’s watch. And, on another historic afternoon at 4 pm, another Richmond resident was asked to take the oath of office and serve out the unexpired term of the late Mayor Hilmar G. Moore: his wife, Evalyn Wendt Moore.

Standing in Richmond City Hall with her hand on her husband’s Bible, Evalyn Wendt Moore became the mayor of Richmond on December 17, 2012 at the historic hour: 4 pm. “When I agreed to serve, I asked if I could be sworn into office at the same time as my husband,” said Moore, who was sworn in by Fort Bend County Commissioner Richard Morrison with Richmond City Commissioners Bill Dostal and Gary Gillen looking on.

Moore was approached by some of the city officials regarding her husband’s unexpired term shortly after his passing. “They didn’t ask me if I would serve initially,” said Moore, “but inquired that if the discussion came up, would I consider fulfilling Hilmar’s term.” Moore was

Evalyn Moore being sworn in as Richmond Mayor by Fort Bend Commissioner Richard Morrison on December 17, 2012.

The late Mayor Hilmar Moore with Evalyn in Vienna, 1987.

agreeable, and city officials held a private meeting where the commissioners decided to appointed her as mayor. After the meeting, she was called and notified that she had been appointed. “I had more time than Hilmar had to consider the idea. The commissioners gave me a couple of days to really think about it because I had other factors I needed to consider.” Moore was then on the OakBend Hospital board and would soon serve as incoming president. As an elected Richmond official, she could no longer serve on the board.

“It made me sad that I wouldn’t be able to continue my service for the hospital, but it was such an honor for both Hilmar and myself to be considered to complete his term that I told the commissioners I would be honored to do so.”

The New Mayor Moore Richmond City Commissioner Gary Gillen felt Moore was the perfect choice for the city. “Agreeing to serve so soon after Hilmar’s passing shows her love for our community. I have had the opportunity to get to know Mrs. Moore during my time as a City Commissioner, and I can think of no one as able to continue Mayor Moore’s legacy.”

While the new Mayor Moore has her own list of priorities for serving Richmond, fulfilling Hilmar’s vision for the city is at the top of her list. As his closest confidant for the past 28 years, she knows the drill. “Before my first city meeting in January, I was delivered my brown envelope on Friday afternoon. I remember for years that Hilmar’s brown envelope would be waiting on him the Friday before the Monday meeting that outlined everything that would come before the council. I reviewed all of the items that would come before the council and was ready for my first meeting.”

The first female mayor of Richmond, Evalyn’s first meeting was literally the day she was sworn into office. During her brief remarks, she expressed her gratitude for giving her the opportunity to serve and honor her husband, and she gave tribute to her husband and his vision for Richmond. “Hilmar’s vision for our city was pretty simple,” she said.

“Hilmar wanted Richmond to be a nice place to live, work and raise your family. He said many times – and he was quite serious on the matter – that Richmond and Houston received their charter from the Republic of Texas in 1837 at the same time. Houston is Houston but due to farsighted mayors like himself, Richmond is a nice place to live.”

Forging Ahead Now, with a year and half left on her term, Mayor Moore will work with the city on some of their greatest challenges which include changing the city charter. “The city’s annexation rights are under home rule,” explained Moore. “We don’t have annexation powers. Groups have to petition to be a part of Richmond.” According to Moore, there are areas the city would like to annex but under their current charter, they cannot.

Mayor Moore feels that water is one of the greatest challenges facing the city today. “Water is a critical issue that Richmond will be working on along with the other mayors in the county. Richmond is facing growth just like the rest of the county, and we will need to plan ahead to keep up with the services our residents will need.”

Working with neighboring cities was part of her husband’s tenure as mayor.

Former Rosenberg Mayor Joe M. Gurecky worked with Mayor Hilmar Moore for the 12 years he was in office. “Not only our community, but also the State of Texas lost a great statesman with the passing of Hilmar Moore,” said Gurecky. “I always considered the City of Richmond as our ‘Sister City’ and May-

or Moore as a true municipal partner.”

“It is really important to me to keep a wonderful working relationship with our neighbors, especially Rosenberg,” said the current Mayor Moore. “We are neighbors, and we both have limited resources so we have to work together.”

Many of the city and county officials have reached out with offering support for Richmond’s new mayor. The current mayor of Rosenberg, Vincent M. Morales, Jr., attended Mayor Moore’s swearing in and is looking forward to continuing the sister city’s relationship. “Rosenberg and Richmond are sister cities – our livelihoods, our quality of life, and our communities depend on one another for their continued success. I truly feel that the more we work in cooperation with each other, the more efficiently we can each lead our respective municipalities. I am excited to work with Mayor Moore to continue to build the partnership between our two towns for the betterment of the entire RichmondRosenberg area.”

Though she has some big boots to fill, Mayor Moore is ready with sage advice learned from her husband. “Hilmar believed in being accessible. Just like Hilmar, I will be available to listen to any and all of our resident’s concerns. Our home phone number is listed in the phone book. Anyone who has a concern is free to call, and their concerns will be taken seriously. We are public servants; Hilmar felt strongly about that, and I do as well.”

I asked the new Mayor Moore to sum up what she felt her husband’s greatest legacy was, and what she hopes her legacy of service to the citizens of Richmond will be. “Hilmar’s greatest legacy was his dedication to serving. He served his family, his friends, and most importantly, the citizens of Richmond. Despite his different endeavors, his main dedication was to the citizens of Richmond, and this dedication to service was his greatest bequest to all of us, especially his family. He felt to whom much is given, much is expected, and he lived that. In his honor, I will continue to live that philosophy as well.”

“We are public servants; Hilmar felt strongly about that, and I do as well.” ~ Mayor Evalyn Wendt Moore

www.absolutelybrazos.com l FEBRUARY 2013

9

H O M E F E AT URE

By Caron Lopez

Your Home

Let your flirtations this Valentine's Day cross the threshold by bringing romance into your home.

With a few new, dynamic changes in a room, you can prepare for a fabulous Valentine's Day.

Let's start with color. When surrounded by red, it is proven that one's heart beats a bit faster. It definitely is the color that demands attention and the color of the day. Place a soft red throw in your most comfortable seating area or add a couple of red accent pillows. Complete with a single red rose, and don't forget a trueto-heart love note. Cuddle up and watch your favorite movie.

Chocolate is a favorite at Valentine’s Day, but consider the color chocolate in a plush comforter, pillows and silky sheets for the master bedroom. Toss a couple of deep red decorative pillows for a beautiful bed and romantic evening. Add some chocolate dipped strawberries to the bedside table.

Creating an enticing ambiance in the home is easy by dimming the lights. Add a chandelier in the bathroom or in the bedroom. A lighting store will have both pricey and not so pricey choices. Candles are a less expensive alternative but equally as sensuous. Grouping scented candles in a variety of heights and types around a bubble bath and adding a basket of aromatic oils, soaps or bath salts will create a

Pink is for babies, but it is also for babes. Pink sets a mood that calms, soothes and brings on gentle feelings.

Set the table in pink and silver all on a crisp white tablecloth. Try out some new recipes that you cook together and serve pink champagne.

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FEBRUARY 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

spa-like retreat. For your evening of pampering, don’t forget the warm towels and a comfortable robe. A towel warmer is a nice indulgence and is readily available in freestanding and wall-mount styles.

Set the mood of relaxation. Destress your home by cleaning and removing clutter. First, stash the stacks of bills, papers and magazines. Strip down the room to bare essentials, and add back only a few striking items. You probably have everything you need to create a new look by using a few choice accessories from other rooms. If you find you need to buy something new and fresh, start with a vase of large, bright flowers or introduce a new fabric color with a table runner, pillows or even drapery. Accentuate the bed with beautiful hardware and bed curtains above or beside the headboard. Select a sumptuous drapery for a seating area and draw it back with a tassel.

Remember, it’s the thoughtful yet flirtatious items that are key in your new romantic retreat. It’s riches from the heart that make this Valentine’s Day memorable, not the money you spend.

Have fun, be creative and express your love.

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BUSINESS BRIEFS

The Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance Recent Ribbon Cuttings

Wednesday, December 5th • Renae’s Salon 1410 East Highway 90A, Ste. 500, Richmond, TX 77406

Thursday, December 6th • Well Child Pediatrics 26440 FM 1093, Ste. 350, Richmond, TX 77406

Kevin Patton, Kevin Patton State Farm; Rebecca Lazarou, Calvary Episcopal School; Marcia Hopkins, Renae’s Salon; Tom Wilson, Reading Road Self Storage; Joe Messina; Garreta Kipp, Renae’s Salon; Ann Messina; Ron Reiger; Renae Melchor, Renae’s Salon; Ashley Sanchez, Renae’s Salon; Karin Mendez, Renae’s Salon; Bobby Messina; Kelly Shelton, Vista Bank Texas; Eric Edmunds, The Edmunds Foundation; Doris Messina; Kay Garrett, absolutely! Brazos Magazine; Lisa Matthews, Servpro of West Fort Bend County; Mike McCroskey, MACRO Remodeling & Restoration and Blake Greer, Greer Wealth Management.

Mohan R. Bathula; Donny Abraham, HealthOne 24 Hour Emergency Care; Charlie Braun, bizINTOUCH; Debbie Guillen; Eric Edmunds, The Edmunds Foundation; Janet Scudder, Eagle Strategies; Ara Vind; Melissa Evans, Sugar Land Magazine; Dr. Shaila Ja Kancherla; Dr. Sri De Vi Muppidi; Taryn Arbeely, Katy Magazine; Andrea Stevens; Vasundhara Bhatula; Yasmin Ryel; Tony Francis, Alicia Casias Nationwide Agency; Mike McCroskey, MACRO Remodeling & Restoration and Mike Roller, RE/MAX Realty West.

Friday, December 7th • Dahill – A Xerox Company 77 Sugar Creek Blvd., Ste. 250, Sugar Land, TX 77478

Wednesday, December 12th • Fish Place 24004 SW FWY, Brazos Town Center Rosenberg, TX 77471

Kelly Shelton, Vista Bank Texas; Eric Edmunds, The Edmunds Foundation; Erica Tirado, First Victoria National Bank; Ray Aguilar, Classic Chevrolet; Rick Mailand, Dahill; Steve Packard, Dahill; Tara White, Dahill; Sean Bralley, Dahill; Darrell Rowland, Dahill; Scott York; Deadra Williams, Dahill; Tom Wilson, Reading Road Self Storage; John Lumley, Employers Resource; Wendy McAdams, Dahill; Larry Finch, Dahill; Alan Gretschmann, Dahill; Lisa Matthews, Servpro of West Fort Bend County; Justin Sandy, Dahill and Mike McCroskey, MACRO Remodeling & Restoration.

Lisa Matthews, Servpro of West Fort Bend County; Liz Moreno, Fort Bend County Women’s Center; Cathey Pitts, SIG McDonald & Wessendorff Insurance; Tom Wilson, Reading Road Self Storage; Alicia Casias, Alicia Casias Nationwide Agency; Anna Holguin, Marriott Springhill Suites Rosenberg; Anil Gupta, Fish Place; Evelyn Jackson; Matt Ontiveros, Marriott Springhill Suites Rosenberg; Michelle Moore, absolutely! Brazos Magazine; Ely Emtiaz Arshad, Fish Place; Tony Field, Reading Road Self Storage; Cynthia Bartholomew, Fort Bend Habitat for Humanity; Eric Edmunds, The Edmunds Foundation; Janet Scudder, Eagle Strategies; Crystal Hedspeth, National Entertainment Discount Service, Inc.; Charlie Braun, bizINTOUCH; Kelly Shelton, Vista Bank Texas; Blake Greer, Greer Wealth Management; Mike McCroskey, MACRO Remodeling & Restoration; Scott York; Darrell Karnopp, NationStar Mortgage and Ray Aguilar, Classic Chevrolet.

Downt own St udio

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13

High School HOT SHOT

By Lauren Dante

Joshua Okonye: Field of Dreams

J

oshua never thought the football field would make all of his dreams come true, but with his determination and perseverance, Joshua’s dream of playing college football is now a reality. Throughout his high school career, Joshua has improved his football skills while excelling in school.

Joshua is an honors student, and his schedule includes honors and Advanced Placement courses, which have placed him in the top ten percent of his graduating class. Academics have always been a priority for Joshua, and they are evidence that Joshua is much more than just a good football player; he is the complete package with both brains and brawn.

As a seventh grader, Joshua began playing football. He was on the lowest level team as a lineman. Joshua’s goal was to be a starter and play on the toplevel team. By the time he was in ninth grade, Joshua had been moved to the positions of receiver and corner. However, he was still on the B Freshman team.

Joshua knew that he had the potential to be a good player, but he was not being given the opportunity to showcase his talents. “Not being able to start during my ninth grade year taught me that I was really going to have to work hard to get where I wanted to go,” said Joshua.

“I knew that I was going to have to get out there and try my hardest if I was going to reach my goals.”

Joshua’s goal of playing college football began to seem more like a reality after he started at George Ranch High School. Joshua really connected with the coach and he played a new position, safety, during his tenth grade season.

Although the position was not his favorite, he worked at it and played where his team needed him the most. As safety,

14

a u h s Jo Joshua got the first interception in their first game against Ridge Point.

With a new head coach for Joshua’s junior year, the dynamics of the team changed again. The offense and defense were rearranged, and Joshua began playing the position of corner again. “The coach knew that I really wanted to play corner,” said Joshua. “My hits were fluid, and I was a better fit for corner than safety.” Joshua proved to be a better fit at corner when he made the first interception to be run in for a touchdown in the schools history. He ran 92 yards to score the run. In the spring of his junior year, Joshua received his first scholarship offer and was the first football player at the school to receive such an offer.

In the summer before his senior year, Joshua was invited to the Nike Training Camp in Dallas. At the camp, Joshua played against top high school football players. He was able to measure his

FEBRUARY 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

abilities as he competed against other elite players.

For the 2012 season, George Ranch began playing on the varsity level.

George Ranch won their first varsity game, and they lost games only by a few points. The team was ranked the number one defensive line in the district.

Individually, Joshua had a stellar senior year. In the game against Terry High School, Joshua was paired with a notable receiver. Terry had the number one offensive line at the time, and Joshua knew that he had his work cut out for him. During the game, Joshua kept the player to zero catches. After Joshua’s outstanding performance, he was contacted by Wake Forest University. Joshua received a football scholarship from Wake Forest, a Division One school. “It felt great to reach my goal and commit to college,” said Joshua.

“With this opportunity, I will continue to move forward and reach my goals.”

Joshua will be majoring in Health and Exercise Science.

With his remarkable grades and tremendous work ethic, Joshua will be a wonderful asset to Wake Forest University. We all look forward to watching you on television next fall as a Demon Deacon. Good luck!

Joshua (Number 20) as a star player for George Ranch High School.

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SUMMER FUN GUIDE

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Finding the right help is essential to unlocking your child’s true potential. Let us show you how Educational Coaching can make a difference in your child’s learning experience!

No child should feel like a failure at school!

Ask us about our summer camps!

Betsy de Vega Owner/Learning Specialist

281-682-4573

245 Gonyo Lane • Richmond, TX 77469

www.knilecenter.com

Through Karate & Tae Kwon Do classes We focus on Self Confidence, Academic Success, Concentration & Focus, Respect, Discipline, Self Control, Self Defense, Stranger Danger & Character Development • • • • •

Classes for Ninjas (ages 4-7) Juniors (ages 8-12) FREE Bully Prevention Workshops Teen/Adult Self Defense and Fitness Classes Adult Personal Safety Seminars

T ry a Free Class Today

99

Valentine’s $ Special One Month Plus Uniform

16

Frank’s Nursery

Blaisdale

FEBRUARY 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

Gateway America

Lone Star Karate Hwy 90

Grand Pkwy. (99)

www.LoneStarKarate.com

FM 359

222 FM 359 281.513.5566

nILE Center is the premier Educational Resource in the Sugar Land/Richmond area. KnILE Center works with children of many capacities, from children with learning concerns to children who want an edge.

There are two cornerstone programs to choose from. Our private school, KnILE Prep Academy (4th – 12th grades), is a private boutique-style, virtual college preparatory school that utilizes proven innovative systems that prepare children for their educational careers. KnILE Center is here to make a difference – to equip the next generation of leaders to be independent and self-reliant, critical thinkers.

EduCoachNow is KnILE Center’s one-on-one educational enrichment program for ages 5 and up. This program is different from traditional tutoring methods in that it combines cognitive training skills with enhanced organizational, study and testing methods. The net result is a student who can attack and process any subject much more effectively than if he or she worked with a traditional tutor. KnILE Center’s services are customized to the child’s needs and abilities. They strive to increase the child’s self esteem and provide the best tools needed to bring back the love of learning and unlock students’ potential.

For more information, visit www. knilecenter.com or call 281-6824573.

Advertorial

Show her your love with our featured

Valentine Lagos bracelet

Lone Star Karate Stands Up to Bullying

K

arate is one of the best gifts parents can give their child to prevent bullying. Shawn Vicknair, owner and Chief Instructor at Lone Star Karate, explains, “One of the biggest reasons parents bring their children to Lone Star is to help with bullying.”

The traits learned from karate like confidence, discipline, respect, selfcontrol, self-defense and developing leadership have proven to reduce the likelihood that a child will be bullied or become a bully.

Confidence helps prevent a child from becoming an easy target for bullies. Self-discipline allows a child to manage his or her behaviors so as not to provoke a bully. A warning sign of bullying is a low self-image and a loss of self worth. Karate teaches children to have self-respect and to expect to be respected by others.

Many victims of bullying do not recognize that their own behavior can trigger bullying.

Karate also teaches self-control, which allows children to control their own behaviors that may stop a negative situation. Karate students learn various self-defense techniques that will help if bullying escalates to physical violence. Bullies lack empathy and ignore the feelings of others. Karate can prevent bullying by helping bullies develop the capacity for empathy in fellow students.

Next time you are looking for an activity for your child, consider Karate, which can proactively change your child. Lone Star Karate is located at 222 FM 359 at Hwy 90 in Richmond. For more information, call 281-513-5566.

Limited Quantity Special Price

Sterling silver bracelet with triple “X” caviar design.

295

$

Fort Bend’s Custom Jeweler 14015 Southwest Freeway at Sugar Creek

281-242-2900 www.jloggins.com

HOURS: TUES-FRI. 10-6 • SAT. 10-3

Watch & Jewelry Repair on Premises

Your New Outdoor Living Room!

Patio Covers • Outdoor Kitchens • Screened Porches Decorative Patios • Sunrooms • And More!

This Year resolve to

Spend more time outside!

Call today

to schedule a free design consultation.

281-265-1994 TexasCustomPatios.com

www.absolutelybrazos.com l FEBRUARY 2013

17

EVENTS

February 4th

Tuesday, 5:30 – 6:30 pm Healthy Teeth Pediatric Dentistry Meet and Greet Join Healthy Teeth Pediatric Dentistry for light bites and free goody bags at 4907 Sandhill Drive Suite E in Sugar Land.

Dr. Shilpa Chandiwal will be on hand to provide pediatric oral hygiene information to parents and children.

Call 713-955-2100.

February 8th

Friday, 5:30 – 10:30 pm “Reading Between the Wines” The Literacy Council of Fort Bend County invites you to an event featuring New York Times best-selling authors Leila Meacham and Taylor Stevens along with guest authors John DeMers, Stephanie Jaye Evans and Crystal Allen. Enjoy food and wine from local vendors. Visit www.ftbendliteracy.org or call 281-240-8181.

Dr. Malik Kutty

Guadalupe

RIVERFRONT DUPLEX Each duplex can accommodate four adults and four children or rent both for groups.

More pictures at

RioRatonDuplex.com book at

18

832-788-2294

FEBRUARY 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

February 8th and 22nd Friday, 9:30 am – 12 pm

Letosha Gale, M.D. Family Medicine

Faithful Moms Join other mothers for fellowship, camaraderie and support in a safe, positive environment. Childcare, crafts, guest speakers, food and an opportunity to build lasting relationships with other Christian mothers is provided. All meetings are held in the Chapel at Faith United Methodist Church, located at 4600 FM 359 in Richmond. For more information, text 281-330-8260 or email joannahemphill@gmail.com.

February 12th Tuesday, 10 am

African-American Family History Research Library staff from the Genealogy and Local History Department at Fort Bend County Libraries will present the introductory program “African-American Genealogy 101” in the Computer Lab at George Memorial Library, located at 1001 Golfview in Richmond. The program is free and open to the public. To register online, visit http://www.fortbend.lib.tx.us/, click on “Calendar” and select “George Memorial.” Call 281-341-2608.

Our newest dOctOr will see yOu nOw. South Texas Medical Clinics, part of Memorial Hermann Medical Group, is a uniquely advanced team of primary care doctors and specialists. Our singular focus is to practice evidence-based medicine while delivering the highest level of collaborative, quality patient-centered care.

To schedule, call 281.344.0207.

South Texas Medical Clinics Brazos Town Center 7607 Town Center Blvd. in the Target wing Rosenberg, TX 77471

February 24th

Sunday, 3 - 5 pm Aggie Ring Wraps Trunk Show Patent pending Ring Wraps are a matching pair of custom made 10K yellow gold diamond ring wraps containing .60 carat total weight of common prong set round brilliant cut diamonds meticulously sculpted to fit snug against the modern Aggie ring for women. Stop by Southern Sister Designs located at 817 Third Street in Rosenberg for this exclusive trunk show featuring the newest Aggie trend. Call 281-232-7737.

Memorial Hermann Medical Group benefits: • Electronic Medical Records let your doctor instantly view your medical records, including test results and medications, to ensure your coordinated, optimal care.

• Patient Portal allows you to actively monitor your health, complete paperwork, refill prescriptions and communicate directly with your doctor.

ABSOLUTELY! WE’RE HIRING NOW! SUBMIT YOUR CALENDAR EVENTS.

E-mail editor@absolutelybrazos.com.

Include the event date, time, location and a short description of the event.

Exceptional Readers. Exceptional Clients.

EXCEPTIONAL SALES PROFESSIONALS. Join Our Team! Send resume to lisa@fortbendfocus.com www.absolutelybrazos.com l FEBRUARY 2013

19

NEWSWORTHY

Who is Fort Bend County’s “Top Chef?”

Acreage Lots from the 40’s!

Gated Community Lake Lots Available

Front Row: Chip Sutton of Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson; Ed Bailey, Gilbane; Janice Knight, Carolyn Banfield, Doris Gurecky, Gurecky Manufacturing Company and Lorin Pargoud, PBK. Back Row: Mark Magee, Amegy Bank of Texas; Charles Carter, UnitedHealthcare; Ryan O’Hara, BOSC Inc; Jeff Hailey, SiEnviro and Mike Swierka, Perdue Brandon Fielder Collins & Mott.

Buy Now, Build Later! like us on Facebook

www.TEJASLAKES.com

DEDICATED TO

HOPE HEALING ANDRECOVERY • Long Term Acute Care • Inpatient Rehabilitation Featuring Quality Measures, Managed Care & Family Education

Kindred is pleased to Announce these Appointments

Lorene Perona,

RN, MS, ACHE as President and CEO

Dr. Laura Griffin,

APRN, ACNP-BC, DNP as Chief Nurse Executive

1550 First Colony Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-275-6000 • www.KindredHospitals.com

20

FEBRUARY 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

Find out who Fort Bend’s “Top Chef” is in February at the Lamar Educational Award Foundation’s (L.E.A.F.) annual Men Who Cook, presented by SiEnviro. Men Who Cook will feature the culinary treats of 49 “celebrity” cooks, along with dancing and auctions. The event will be held February 16th at 6:30 pm in the Texas Ballroom at Safari Texas Ranch. Jeff Council will be the auctioneer for the evening, and the Ken Mondshine and the Brotherhood Band will provide the evening’s musical entertainment.

Proceeds from the evening are used to support the creative ideas and classroom projects by Lamar CISD teachers that would otherwise go unfunded. L.E.A.F. also offers scholarship to graduating Lamar CISD students and to paraprofessionals working on their teaching certificates. In 13 years of existence, L.E.A.F. has invested more than $1.69 million into LCISD schools.

Tickets for the gala are $60. For more information regarding L.E.A.F. or to purchase tickets, contact Janice Knight at 832.223.0334.

Rustic Kuts

Furniture and Western Decor One of a kind unique rustic furniture, western art, mantles, bedding kitchen/bath accessories

Come see our new Boutique • Silver Jeans • Scully Jackets • Rancho Estancia • Corral Boots

Open

Tues.-Sat. 10:00am to 5:30pm Sun. 11:00am to 5:00pm

281-232-6033

Like us on Facebook

828 Third Street • Historic Downtown Rosenberg

www.RusticKuts.com

www.absolutelybrazos.com l FEBRUARY 2013

21

OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART

Christmas in Rosenberg on December 1st featured the talent of performers Amanda Monteith, Katelyn Campbell, Addie Ralph, Hannah Bohnsack, Whitney Porter and Madelyn Williamson.

BRAZOS

Southern Sisters Designs, one of downtown Rosenberg’s active merchants, held a fashion show during Christmas in Rosenberg.

Models Kaleigh Hein, Morgan Satterwhite, Taylor Cisneros and Jana Simoneaux wowed attendees with their fun fashion.

Cute as a button Toni Marie New helped bring in the Christmas cheer as she sang Christmas songs for an audience at the annual Christmas in Rosenberg event.

Scott and Keith Sawyer rested from strolling the sites at Christmas in Rosenberg.

Beverly Cowen and Liz Melton slowed down to enjoy wassail and cookies provided by Red Queen’s Attic.

Shoppers enjoyed the fabulous holiday decorations and Christmas treats inside Red Queen’s Attic Antiques, including JoAnn and John Walthers.

22

FEBRUARY 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

Christmas carolers Marcie Doss, Jason Sweatt, Erika Waldorf, Gavin Doss, Taylor Sweatt, Addison Doss, Kiley Ritchards, and Aedin Waldorf were all smiles in their costumes, courtesy of Richmond Historical Association, for Historic Downtown Richmond’s Miracle On Morton Street.

Among the families who enjoyed Miracle on Morton Street on December 1st were Steve, Mary, Ashley and Brandon Budd.

Kyle Capel and John Myers of Foster High School’s leadership program attended Miracle on Morton Street to help the post office provide letters available for the children to write to Santa.

The leadership program is an annual summer training program sponsored by the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance to introduce high school kids to foundations of leadership skills.

The First Annual Christmas Tree lighting in Downtown Richmond was attended

by Commissioner Bill Dostal, Terri Vela, Commissioner Gary Gillen and Glen Gilmore, among others.

Many families kicked off the Christmas season at Fulshear’s Christmas Tree Lighting on December 1st, including Amanda, Landon, Travis and Annabelle Hill.

Erin and Shawn Hearon enjoyed the various holiday sights and activities at Fulshear’s Tree Lighting event.

www.absolutelybrazos.com l FEBRUARY 2013

23

OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART BRAZOS

Members of Rosenberg City Council joined City staff and project team members on Tuesday, December 18th to officially break ground on Fire Station No. 3 which will be located at the corner of FM 2977 and August Green Drive and will house an additional fire crew and pumper for the City of Rosenberg. Construction of the station is expected to be complete in Fall 2013. Pictured are Lynn Foster, LDF Construction; Lisa Andel and Ray Holliday, BRW Architects; Rosenberg Fire Chief Wade Goates; Councilors Cynthia McConathy and Tom Suter; Mayor Vincent M. Morales, Jr.; Councilors Juan Salazar and Dwayne Grigar; former Rosenberg Fire Chief Kathy Hutchens; Melissa Peña, Project Manager and Donald Robson, LDF Construction.

Students at McNeill Elementary donated 1,000 pounds of food to the Student Council Can Drive during the holiday season. The food was donated to Helping Hands.

Pictured are Student Council officers Meggie Wang, Emma Martinez, Caitlyn Gutierrez, Kayla Cruz and Katie Freer.

The McNeill Elementary National Elementary Honor Society conducted a toy drive for the women’s center during the month of December. The students collected 300 toys that found homes this holiday season with children in need. Pictured are Honor Society officers Meggie Wang, Princess Ajibola, Alexia Partouche, Melissa Schmidt, NEHS advisor and Lex Pham.

Project L.E.A.R.N. (Let’s Eliminate At-Risk Needs) family literacy program Director Paula Bauer and L.E.A.R.N. Parent Educator Kristie Allen handed out a book to Paola Navarro, a fifth grader at Travis Elementary.

Dennis and Doris Dahse and Shirley Connally were also on hand at L.E.A.R.N.’s annual Christmas party to represent the Fort Bend County Retired Educators Association, which donated books to all the children in Project L.E.A.R.N.

24

FEBRUARY 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

NEWSWORTHY

Literacy Council Announces Partnership with Blue Willow Bookshop for Reading Between the Wines The Literacy Council of Fort Bend County is thrilled to announce a partnership with Blue Willow Bookshop for all books sales at the inaugural event Reading Between the Wines on February 8, 2013 at Safari Texas Ranch.

The Literacy Council has two New York Times best-selling authors speaking at the event, Leila Meacham author of Roses and Tumbleweeds, and Taylor Stevens, author of The Informationist and The Innocent. Other guest authors include Houston food icon, John DeMers, and local Sugar Land authors, Stephanie Jaye Evans and Crystal Allen.

“We have worked with Valerie Koehler and Blue Willow Bookshop in the past and have looked for opportunities for a repeat performance,” said Brenda Bowman, Executive Director for the Literacy Council. “This is the perfect partnership for two organizations passionate about authors, books and reading, and they will make book sales very easy for our guests.”

Participants may either pre-purchase books prior to the event or purchase the evening of the event. To pre-purchase, go to the Blue Willow Bookshop website at http://bluewillowbookshop.com/event/readingbetween-wines. Books that are purchased prior to the event will be at will call ready for guest pick-up and author signings the night of the event.

For ticket sales, sponsorships or more information about Reading Between the Wines, visit www.ftbendliteracy.org/ or call 281.240.8181.

Larry Caldwell, D.D.S. AND

ASSOCIATES

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

A Special Place for Special People Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry 15200 SW Freeway • Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.565.KIDS (5437) www.larrycaldwelldds.com Check us out on Facebook!

MedCare Milestones

3rd annual

Spring Bling Thursday, March 21, 2013

Prize for Best Bling Ensemble

$ 30 Per Ticket Includes Food, 2 Indulgences and Bling Raffle Ticket

Bring all your girlfriends to the ultimate girl’s night in!

Come prepared to get pampered for a cause and shop for clothes, jewelry and home décor. Additional indulgences and drinks can be purchased for a minimal cost.

Purchase tickets by calling 713-773-5123 or visit www.medcaremilestones.org.

Brenda Bowman, Executive Director of the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County and Valerie Koehler, owner of Blue Willow Bookshop.

All proceeds to benefit MedCare Milestones, directly aiding children in need locally & around the world.

2013 Spring Bling Participants & Sponsors www.absolutelybrazos.com l FEBRUARY 2013

25

B R A Z O S VA L E N T I N E ’ S D AY G I F T G U I D E

Love

things we

A GIFT TO MAKE YOU SMILE Start this New Year off with Sparkles™ - A unique and delicate sparkling wine!

Sparkles™ is gentle, uplifting and fragrant. Braman Winery, 3333 FM 359 in Richmond.

Call 281-762-1375; www. bramanwine.com.

BEAUTIFUL SKIN FOR YOUR VALENTINE Take 20% off Obagi Products for your home treatment regimen.

Timeless Plastic Surgery, 1327 Lake Pointe Parkway #300 in Sugar Land. Call 281-242-TIME (8463); www.

TimelessPlasticSurgery.com.

DON’T LET YOUR HANDS AGE YOU Revision’s Lumiquin hand cream plumps, rejuventates and revitalizes your hands so they appear significantly younger and more beautiful! This potent blend of anti-oxidants and extracts are proven to correct dullness, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and more! Sugar Land Plastic Surgery.

Call 281-980-8000; www.mybodysurgeon.com.

SOUTHERN SISTER DESIGNS One-of-a-kind cuffs handcrafted from vintage leather belts and vintage spoons hand stamped with “mama tried” and embellished with Swarovski crystals ($26). Custom orders are available. Southern Sister Designs, 817 Third Street in Historic Downtown Rosenberg. Call 281-232-7737; www. southernsisterdesigns.com.

26

FEBRUARY 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

I AM WOMAN Are you experiencing symptoms of fatigue, weight gain, mood swings, depression and more? If so, I Am Woman will speak to you and start you on a path of healing. Dr. Shel Wellness and Medical Spa, 1437 Hwy 6, Suite 100 in Sugar Land.

Call 281-313-7435.

LET’S COWGIRL UP! Shopping for unique western wear and décor? Look no further. Rustic Kuts furniture western decor and boutique has it all. Rustic Kuts, 828 3rd Street in Historic Downtown Rosenberg. Call 281-232-6033; www.Rustickuts.com.

D&S ANTIQUES AND REFINISHING VALENTINE’S DAY SPECIAL Show her your love with our featured Valentine sterling silver Lagos bracelet with triple “X” caviar design. Limited quantity at a special price of $295. Open Tuesday – Friday 10 am to 6 pm and Saturday 10 am to 3 pm.

J Loggins Jewelers, 14015 Southwest Freeway. in Sugar Land. Call 281-242-2900; www.jloggins.com.

SKIN CARE SYSTEM Luxe Plastic Surgery offers the Jan Marini skin care system – a complete set of products that makes other individual products unnecessary.

A special pigment blending agent evens skin tone, and for a limited time the Jan Marini retinol is included free. (Jan Marini MD system, $350) Luxe Plastic Surgery.

Call 281-313-0551.

Give the gift of an antique piece of furniture that has been refurbished to its original beauty!

D&S Antiques & Collectables Mall, 801 2nd Street, Ave E in Rosenburg. Call 281-232-0035.

BEAUTIFUL EYES IN ONE PERFECT PACKAGE This perfect gift includes Obagi ESLASTIderm™ Eye Cream or Eye Gel, Obagi ELASTILash™ Eyelash Solution and Obagi’s Jewelry Travel Case, all for $99. Sugar Land Face and Body Plastic Surgery,16926 Southwest Freeway in Sugar Land. Call 281-313-0555; www.BeautyBecomesYou.com.

www.absolutelybrazos.com l FEBRUARY 2013

27

By Joan Frances

A LITTLE PIECE O F H I S T ORY

A Rich History in

The Brazos River in Richmond, Texas.

L

iving in this world today, we take so much for granted. We wake to electricity and fresh water, stoves, microwaves and shopping at our fingertips. Chores are making beds and feeding the dog a can of food. We open the refrigerator to an array of ready made meals to satisfy the palate.

About two hundred years ago, Americans were traveling on this land for the first time searching for food, shelter and a place to call home. Our heritage began with the explorer, the motivator, those with the foresight to dream big.

Fort Bend County was considered the land of opportunity, and as the population grew, people traveled to a small city called Richmond.

When the early settlers headed north from Galveston, they were impressed by the beautiful land and rivers surrounding them. It was an easy task to find an area to build a home and business.

Only about fifteen miles from Houston, the City of Richmond was established in 1837 by Robert Eden Handy and business partner William Lusk. The name came from Richmond, England and was incorporated by the Republic of Texas as the seat of government for Fort Bend County. The city began building the

28

Richmond

framework with a church and newspaper; land was four cents an acre. Beautiful plantation homes were constructed where well-known residents lived including, Erastus (Deaf) Smith, General Sam Houston’s scout, Jane Long, the mother of Texas and Mirabeau B. Lamar, the father of Texas education.

By 1851, this community had a brick court house, two stores, a Masonic Hall and an Academy. Then, in 1855, the Buffalo Bayou, Brazos and Colorado Railroad came to town. Richmond continued to prosper as a market center for the region’s cotton plantations with easy passage into and out of the city. By 1859, the settlers of Richmond made this city one of the richest counties in Texas.

Before the Civil War, Richmond became a thriving “cattle empire.” Cotton, corn, livestock, hides, sugar and molasses were shipped from the town. The population was growing and virtually unaffected by the war. The power brokers resided in the city. Many emancipated slaves moved to Richmond to begin life again and took control of the local politics. In 1888, the famous Jaybird-Woodpecker War ensued.

The wealthy white Democrat Jaybirds

A 19th century plantation: the Moore Home.

FEBRUARY 2013 l TO ADVERTISE CALL 281.690.4242

sought to gain control of the government from the Woodpecker officials that held office as a result of the black vote for the Republican ticket. Many people became bitter enemies as a result of this feud.

Conflict lasted for a year; hostilities and huge set backs resulted. Lives were lost on both sides, and the city became an armed camp where the “Battle of Richmond” was fought. Fighting took place around the courthouse, the National Hotel and the McFarlane residence. Finally on August 17, 1889, the Houston Light Guards arrived to establish martial law. A reorganization of the government occurred and the Democrats once again controlled Richmond. They dominated Fort Bend politics for the next seventy years.

The McFarlane residence in the late 19th century.

Today, the citizens of Richmond are at peace with one another. The community is culturally diverse and prospering with nearly 13,000 residents. The city is easy to get around and conveniently desirable to Houston commuters. Reminders of its history still remain with the oldest known churches, cemeteries and Masonic monument in the state, as well as many of the original buildings that are still in use.

With such a rich history, Richmond is a great place to live.

Coming February 2013

Most Fascinating Things about Fort Bend PEOPLE • PLACES • HAPPENINGS

C e l e b r a t i n g O u r 1 0 0 th I s s u e

fortbendfocus.com INSIDE BACK

one of THe

ToP 100

HOSPITALS in THe naTion.

As one of Thomson Reuters’ 100 Top Hospitals,® we’re setting a higher standard for healthcare.

Every year, Thomson Reuters conducts a quantitative study to determine the top 100 U.S. hospitals delivering exceptional care–care that saves lives, decreases the length of patient stays and minimizes complications. For the second consecutive year, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital made this prestigious list. We’re honored to be recognized a long w ith Memor ia l Hermann Northwest, Southeast, Southwest, Katy and The Woodlands hospitals.

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