Fort Bend Christian Magazine | August 2014 by Fort Bend Christian Magazine

Inside this Issue: It’s Back to School in Fort Bend!

FORT BEND

Fa m i l y Fr i e n d l y Ne w s w i t h a n E t e r n a l Pu r p o s e August / September 2014 • Complimentary

Back to School in Fort Bend

Students Travel to Rome

Beating Cancer www.FortBendChristianMagazine.com • For Advertising Information, Call (281) 497-6455 August / September 2014

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I urge you, ﬁrst of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 “I strive not to be a success, but rather of value”

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President/Publisher-In-Chief FORT BEND

Volume I, Issue 1

Students on the Trip of a Lifetime

Back to School in Fort Bend

10 Back-to-School and Cancer-Free! 12 Local Christian Student Highlights 13 GiGi’s Top 10s for Graceful Living 15 Pastor Profile: Dr. Keith Robinson 17 The Buzz About Fort Bend 18 Christian Business Profile: Final Touch Roofing 21 Confused about Obamacare? 27 Are All Politics Dirty? Our Mission Statement:

“Our mission is to have a magazine devoted to His glory, provide cutting-edge stories important to today’s Christian, promote Christian-Judeo values we find important, and editorial content that your entire family can enjoy.” President / Publisher-in-Chief Joseph Menslage joseph@fortbendchristianmagazine.com Publisher Malicia Garcia mali@fortbendchristianmagazine.com Editor Melanie Saxton melanie@fortbendchristianmagazine.com Assistant to the Publisher Hannah Menslage hannah@fortbendchristianmagazine.com

For advertising information, contact Joseph Menslage at (281) 497-6455 or email joseph@fortbendchristianmagazine.com

© 2014 Fort Bend Christian Magazine. All rights reserved. No part of this publication or website may be distributed or reproduced without prior written consent of the publisher. Advertisements and or editorial content published in Fort Bend Christian Magazine does not necessarily reflect the views of Fort Bend Christian Magazine. To SUBSCRIBE: send a check or money order for 30.00 for a 12-month subscription to Fort Bend Christian Magazine, 650 West Bough, Suite 150-170, Houston, TX 77024. For EDITORIAL or calendar submissions, please mail them to Fort Bend Christian Magazine, 650 West Bough, Suite 150-170, Houston, TX 77024. CUSTOMER SERVICE

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Greetings! We are excited to debut Fort Bend Christian Magazine, which brings you “family-friendly news with an eternal purpose.” Like our sister publication, Katy Christian Magazine, our mission is to share inspirational stories of faith made possible by the support of our Christian advertisers. We’re thankful for the generous support we’ve received from our readers and advertisers in Katy and look forward to serving readers in Fort Bend for years to come. To learn more about Fort Bend Christian Magazine, visit our website at www.FortBendChristianMagazine.com or like us on Facebook. Joseph R. Menslage President/Publisher Fort Bend Christian Magazine joseph@fortbendchristianmagazine.com

Letter From The Publisher We’re excited to debut Fort Bend Christian Magazine this month. Inside our magazine, you will find stories about people of faith, helpful insights for Christian living, and news and information from right here in Fort Bend! As a parent, you are undoubtedly caught up in all things “back-to-school” this month. This issue has some inspirational school-related stories, including a wonderful trip to Italy by Pope John III High students, a “good news” story about assistant principal and cancer survivor Joshua Martinez, and student profiles from Fellowship Christian Academy. We also feature a local business, Final Touch Roofing, and are happy to share their message of values and community involvement. Enjoy our inaugural issue, support Christian business, and please share your news with our editor in chief, Melanie Saxton by emailing melanie@katychristianmagazine.com. Malicia Garcia Publisher Fort Bend Christian Magazine mali@fortbendchristianmagazine.com

Letter from the Editor-in-Chief Hello to our new readers! Our magazine provides a wonderful opportunity for people of faith to share their stories. We publish hyper-local features, but also strive to include national articles of interest to us all. This time of year has us focusing on our blessings, which come in many forms. We feature a chaplain like no other, plus back-to-school news and much more! Melanie Saxton, Editor-in-Chief Fort Bend Christian Magazine melanie@fortbendchristianmagazine.com

Introducing Our Photographer We are pleased to introduce talented photographer Nikki Guest, who specializes in family, senior, and wedding photography. You’ll see a sampling of her photography in this issue’s Furry Friends of Fort Bend column. Connect with her at www.nikkiguest.com or www.facebook.com/photographybynikkiguest.

Meet our Summer Intern Olivia Ensley is a spending the summer in Katy on break from Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas. She was the founder and President of Creative Writing Club at White Station High School and associate section editor of the White Station Scroll Newspaper. We welcome her onboard and appreciate her keen eye.

Meet our Etiquette Expert GiGi Lewis is a renowned etiquette expert who has been changing kids from “alarming” to “charming” since 1995. As founder of Club Etiquette, she teaches etiquette, personal development and Cotillion at over 20 Houston locations. Learn more at www.clubetiquette.com.

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Students on the Trip of a Lifetime By Melanie Saxton How nice to usher in a new school year with memories of a trip to Rome! Recently a total of 41 Pope John XXIII high school students, faculty, and families, as well as Father Bruce Noble, traveled to Rome to witness the canonization of Popes John Paul II and John XXIII (the school’s patron). The school had initially planned a summer trip to Rome, but moved the date up to coincide with the event in Italy on Divine Mercy Sunday, April 27. The high school campus binds many communities together and is home to students from all parts of Fort Bend, Katy, Cy-Fair and Houston. During the last school year, 150 of the 375 student body lived in Fort Bend County, with at least 75 commuting from the Sugar Land and Richmond/Rosenberg area. 132 students had Katy addresses. The school has similar enrollment for 2014/2015.

ture of the major basilicas of the Eternal City, and the Christian bond of fellow Catholics from all over the world. We asked them to report back on this incredible journey.

International Crowds

The Vatican announced that delegations from more than 100 countries and at least 24 heads of state were expected to attend. Vatican Radio put the crowds at some 800,000 in the square, roads and gardens around the St. Peter’s area. CNN reported that another 500,000 followed the proceedings on giant screens set up around Rome. The crowds were enormous and filled the streets of Rome before dawn as people vied for a good view. A small group of students actually camped out the night prior to the canonization in St. Peter’s square with millions of others. Emer “Camping out to get a good spot for the canonization was both decis is the the best and worst experience ever!” says student Kara Chrisprem topherson. She attended because she knew it would be a once in a lifetime opportunity and enjoyed visiting Assisi and St. Francis’ • CT Basilica. “I witnessed Italian culture first hand and learned about • Te all the churches, and how St. Francis received the stigmata,” she • Ad • Av adds.

The Itinerary The travelers were led by Principal Tim Petersen and enjoyed visiting religious sites throughout Italy: 1.) Venice, where Blessed John XXIII was patriarch, 2.) Assisi, where he contemplated and planned the Second Vatican Council, and 3.) Rome, where he served as Pontiff and called the Second Vatican Council. During the course of the trip students prayed the Liturgy of the Hours, had an evening Mass, times of reflection, and meditation. Theology teachers Mr. Tim Caruthers (and his wife Jessi, a doctoral candidate at the University of St. Thomas) and Mr. Mark Baker assisted with the selection of sites based on their connection to Pope John XXIII and the history of Italy. Any student or family member was able to attend the trip as long as they could afford the cost. Upon arrival, the group reveled in the culture, the architec-

• Ca

Student Recollections

SPHIE

Lauren Lathrop looked forward to all the fun and amazing experiences, and wasn’t disappointed. “My favorite part was seeing SPH all the different countries come peacefully together with their flags to see Pope John XXIII’s canonization,” she says. She also found that clothes are more expensive in Italy. Rachel Hamrock felt especially blessed because she attended both John Paul 11 Junior High and Pope John XX111 High School – and was able to witness the canonizations of such great men of faith. Her favorite memory was visiting Florence and experiencing European culture. Nichol Perez wanted to be able to look back and recall the

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date that she attended a historic canonization in beautiful Italy, rode a gondola and visited a coliseum. “I learned a lot about the artwork inside of St. Francis’ Church and Michelango’s artwork inside the Sistine Chapel… and the proper way to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain,” she says.

Pope John XXIII High School is a college preparatory located at 1800 West Grand Pkwy N, Katy, TX 77449. Visit them online at www.pj23.org.

More Than Just a Vacation Maddie Vuyk, a junior, was moved by the spiritual component of the journey. She commented, “The greatest part about this trip was that it did not just simply soothe my constantly aching travel sweet tooth, but was a beautiful way in which I was able to experience first hand the art, history, and tradition at the seat of my faith. This was not just a school vacation with a series of educational tours along the way, but a true pilgrimage. The canonization of my school’s patron combined with witnessing his incorruptible body and the massive number of faithful that his actions touched gave this trip a deeper meaning to which all descriptions seem to fall short.”

Back at Home The students are still talking about their time spent at the Vatican and are now gearing up for a new fall semester. We wish them well during the 2014/2015 school year and also look forward to sharing their upcoming adventures.

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Back to School in Fort Bend Calvary Episcopal Preparatory Academy

of award winning medals and recognition at the Houston Livestock and Rodeo Show and Fort Bend County Fair. In addition, CEP drama club capped off the year with Seussical the Musical Jr. with 52 participating students at sold out performances. The school also participates in PSIA for lower and middle school and TAPPs for High school in all categories, sending many students to state.

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Calvary incorporates Christian character education, Bible class, Spanish, and library lessons. Calvary is an international school and is now accepting registration for Pre-K through 12th grade for the 2014-2015 school year. To schedule a tour of the campus call 281-342-3161 and bring this ad for $100 off the registration fee. Visit www.ces-richmond.org for more information.

Fellowship Christian Academy 16355 Old Richmond Road Sugar Land, TX 77498 281-495-1814 While outstanding academics are a trademark for Calvary Episcopal Preparatory’s reputation of excellence, its pride as a Christian school is how they treat each other and grow in their understanding of God’s expectations for them. Calvary incorporates Reverence for God, Respect for others, and Responsibility for self into every aspect of the educational experience. In addition to a rigorous and accelerated academic environment, the Calvary experience includes service learning, leadership opportunities, and enrichment programs for student creativity and expression. These programs include a successful athletic department, visual and performing arts that encompass a Thespian Troupe, a National Arts Honor Society, and competitive band. The 2013-2014 year began with an undefeated volleyball and basketball season and was followed up with successful seasons in football, track and golf. Throughout the year the Calvary art department took its share

Fellowship Christian Academy (FCA) provides a place for children to grow and to learn while surrounded by God’s love. The early years of a child’s life are the years that shape their future; therefore, the curriculum is carefully selected and developed to enrich the spiritual, intellectual, emotional, and social development in each child. Since 1976, FCA has provided a safe and loving environment where children are encouraged to develop spiritually as they grow cognitively, socially and physically. Many of our teachers have over 25 years of teaching experience. Age appropriate environments and classes are offered beginning at the age of 18 months and grow children through 7th grade.

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Back-to-School and Cancer-Free! By Holly Chervnsik In the flurry of preparing for back-toschool, one local is especially grateful to be on campus. Fort Bend resident Joshua Martinez, an assistant principal at Janowski Elementary in Houston, is a devoted husband of 33 years and father to four grown children. We are privileged to share his medical journey as he faced a cancer diagnosis – and successful treatment.

Foreshadowing Faith Joshua’s faith played a large role in his life before his diagnosis, and an even bigger part during his treatment and recovery. “The Lord was prominent throughout my battle against cancer, but even a few weeks prior to my diagnosis his work was evident, although I would not realize it until later,” he says. As an educator he enjoyed reading in the summertime, and in May 2012 his search for books seemed especially difficult. Nothing piqued his interest until he discovered “The Question of God: C.S. Lewis and Sigmund Freud Debate God, Love, Sex, and the Meaning of Life” at his local library. Chapter nine addressed the subject of death was as impactful as anything he had ever read. Lewis stated that we as Christians probably don’t believe that

heaven is as great as the Bible depicts it, since death scares us. “It caused me to deal with my beliefs about the afterlife in a much more profound way than ever before,” says Martinez. Little did he know that the Lord had just given him an introduction to a real life lesson. He was about to tackle the possibility of death, up close and personal.

A Son’s Recommendation His son, while in medical school, encouraged both Martinez and his wife Berta to get colonoscopies as a precaution due to their age. When the results came back with a diagnosis of colorec-

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tal cancer for Martinez, he says, “I knew immediately that I would be going to MD Anderson.” Less than a month later, he was seeing Dr. Sunil Patel, oncologist at the MD Anderson location in Katy. The initial diagnosis was given after a colonoscopy in June. Martinez recalls getting the phone call and gathering the family afterwards to pray that it wasn’t cancer. “I was in denial and convinced that there was not definitive evidence that I was sick, and that an ultrasound would prove it,” he notes. Following a very painful ultrasound he asked the doctor when he would know if it was malignant or benign. “At that moment I realized my confusion (or denial) as both the doctor and my wife looked quizzically at each other. The doctor said clearly to me, “You have cancer.”

The Great Physician Martinez held back tears until exiting the medical facility. Then his wife hugged him and reminded him that God is the “Great Physician,” and that they should trust Him. That was only the beginning. “This was, above all, a spiritual experience,” explains Martinez. “And I can point to a number of times where the Lord used my family, healthcare team, and situations to reveal His merciful love to me. Being in this situation now is also an answered prayer as I

have the opportunity to share my story.”

A Hero at Home and Beyond Martinez has been busy over the past year and a half with his cancer treatment. Since July of 2012, he has undergone chemotherapy and radiation, followed by surgery to remove part of his colon, and an additional six months of chemotherapy intravenously. Today Martinez is cancer-free and says he owes it all to God and His ambassadors – meaning the medical professionals who treated him and his family and friends who ministered daily. His wife was with him every step of the way, attending all appointments to take notes and helping to change their diet at home to speed up his recovery. Each time he had a chemo treatment, one of his daughters gave him a different superhero t-shirt to let her Dad know he was her hero. He still wears the shirts on a regular basis as a reminder of the battle he went through, and that he is survivor.

Back to School Now Martinez will tackle the new school year with a clean bill of health, which has caused his family, church and campus family to rejoice. His testimony is that God, indeed, is the “Great Physician” and works through prayer and the efforts of a supportive earthly team.

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Local Christian Student Highlights Lauren Gonzales

Macie Goglia

Classification: 7th Grade Fellowship Christian Academy

Classification: Kindergarten Fellowship Christian Academy

Lauren has been an extraordinary student at Fellowship Christian Academy since she was 2 years old in our Preschool program. She is the daughter of Isaac and Heather Gonzales of Sugar Land. She was the valedictorian of her 5th grade class in 2013 and continues to excel in academics. Lauren’s hobbies include helping others, rescuing animals, running, and exercising. Her favorite subjects in school are Science and Math. She also loves P.E.! Lauren’s ambition in life is to help people and animals who don’t have homes. She also strives to help rehabilitate injured animals. Lauren has a great love for the Lord and her favorite scripture is Philippians 2:3, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.”

Macie has been a student at Fellowship Christian Academy since she was only 7 weeks old! She is the daughter of Matt and Lyndsie Goglia of Rosenberg. Macie enjoys playing dress up with her friends, being outside, going to the playground, playing games, and swimming. Her favorite subjects at school include Music, Art, and Reading. Macie’s favorite song to sing in chapel is called “Absolutely Nothing” (the lyrics say “What can take His love away? Nothing, nothing, absolutely nothing!). She loves to sing and dance for the Lord! Macie says that her best talent is jumping really high! When she grows up, Macie wants to be a Princess – even though she already is God’s little Princess!

Leah Marut Classification: 8th Grade Cornerstone Christian Academy Gifted creative writer Leah Marut finished 3rd place in a state wide writing contest through the Texas Christian School Interscholastic Tournament. This rising scholar received state recognition as part of the Duke TIP seventh-grade talent search. Leah scored a 1590 on the SAT, was given the opportunity to participate in the Center for Summer Studies, made the Dean’s List (93 average or above) all four terms, and is a member of National Junior Honor Society. Leah serves as a member of Student Body Council and is a a self-taught guitarist and member of the CCA Cougar Band where she has played the flute for the last three years. She and her family attend the Sugar Land Vineyard Church. Fort Bend Christian Magazine will be highlighting local Christian students each issue and we need your help! We’re currently accepting nominations for outstanding elementary, middle school, and high school students to be featured in Fort Bend Christian Magazine. To nominate yourself or someone else, please send an email to joseph@fortbendchristianmagazine.com with a short bio and photo. The students bio should include their name, school, grade, church, and life goals. If applicable, please include information about sports, hobbies, and activities as well.

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GiGi’s Top 10s for Graceful Living By GiGi Lewis “But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach; and it will be given to him.” James 1:5 (World Bible Translation). We can all use back-to-school etiquette and organizational tips, which over time become lifelong habits. 1. Be prepared the night before to make the morning go smoother. Sign all papers. Pull all clothes. Allow plenty of time for your child to dress and eat in the morning. 2. Be on time for carpool. Don’t make the driver wait. 3. If your child rides a bus, teach them bus courtesies, such as no pushing, how to handle when someone is sitting next to a friend they want to sit with, etc.

4. Create a landing spot for backpacks; papers in, papers out. Make it a habit to clean these out daily so that they don’t become overwhelming. Allow extra time to fill out the plethora of forms that arrive that first week by not making unnecessary plans. It could relieve stress.

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7. Disconnect electronics such as TV and video games for a while. Encourage your child to read, color, work with printed learning games, etc. This actually encourages children to problem solve and gives them the gift of learning enjoyment. 8. Have a few meals together as a family. In my 25 years of teaching etiquette and communication skills, I have observed the breakdown of an ability to carry on a simple conversation. HR people hire me to teach that very thing to the new hires so that they can represent the company with poise instead of only via electronic communication. Many opportunities occur for parents to encourage conversations at the dining table with a little bit of mindfulness. 5. Ease into the new sleeping schedule at least a week or two before so that the first week of school is a good experience. Set alarm clocks. Have school-age children set their own alarm clocks to get up in the morning. Praise them for prompt response to morning schedules and bus pickups. Talk to them about the benefits of being rested. 6. Remind your children of common courtesies in the classroom and beyond. Do a little role-playing. Some of those courtesies are waiting your turn, raising your hand, no blurting, following school and class rules, and being kind on the playground. Encourage them to name some of the courtesies before you do.

9. Be proactive in encouraging good mental, physical and spiritual health for your children for at least a month before the first school day. They will arrive at school better prepared to learn by already having these things in their everyday lives. 10. Review required homework that is sent home for at least the first week or two. If children know you are interested and that there is an accountability factor in place at home, it will help to jump start them into healthy homework habits.

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Assisting Those in the Media

h ri s

ARE WE STILL ONE NATION UNDER

to minister to others with emergency psychological first aid and interventional care.

Seldom do we meet a chaplain with such a multifaceted career. Dr. Keith Robinson, a retired dentist who resides in Fort Bend, once specialized in maxillofacial prosthodontics and dental oncology. For over 30 years he has also been involved in the media. Concerned with social issues, he produced and hosted the emmy-award winning TV series, “The Brutal Truth,” “The Brutal Truth: A Violence Documentary,” and “The Brutal Truth: Protecting the Family from Violence.” His first local radio show was titled “Now that Makes me Mad” – a forum for his listening public to voice their issues. He is a former nationally syndicated talk show host of “America Talks Health with Dr. Keith Robinson,” as well as a bestselling author and vice president and executive editor-at-large of USAfrica Online, a respected international news organization. Today he is the founder of AlleyGrin Productions, a company that produces videos and television shows that “move the soul.” But perhaps Robinson’s most important role is that of a chaplain. He has served as Corps Commander of the Houston Regional Community Chaplain’s Corps. Chaplaincy allows him

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exposed to human suffering and horrific trauma that overloads their normal coping mechanisms. Although the viewing audience may not realize it, many in the media cover unimaginably tragic events day in and day out, including homicides, suicides, kidnappings, drownings, tornados, hurricanes, school shootings, and line of duty deaths in police organizations. Robinson has received extensive training in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) as well as specialized training in issues unique to the lives of those in the media. When these gruesome assignments take a toll, Robinson responds with emergency psychological care (not psychological counseling or psychiatry) to help address overloaded emotional systems and to help people understand the symptoms. The goal is to help regain control of their lives and resume one of the most difficult professions around.

Community Collaboration Robinson has established working relationships with crisis response teams, Homeland Security, FEMA, Kidnap and Ransom response organizations, police, fire, military, and other crisis response organizations. “Our chaplains are equipped to understand the lives, fears, requirements, and sensitivities of a broad range of media professionals,” he explains. His company, PTSD Media Solutions, is always on call, and like other first responders, his team is ready to deploy to any place needed.

Ministers in the Workplace Robinson is often asked, “What exactly is a chaplain?” He explains that a chaplain is a minister in the workplace, while pastors care for people primarily inside churches. Chaplains are constitutionally guaranteed confidentiality (Lemon v. Kurtzman) so that all matters that transpire between an individual and a chaplain are protected. “We help all people, irrespective of race, gender or religion, and we are not there to convert anyone to any specific religion. Our responsibility is to walk next to people who are experiencing symptoms and help them,” explains Robinson. “And when questions about the spiritual side of life come up, we are the right professionals to address those questions.” Learn more about Dr. Robinson and his professional services at www.ptsdmediasolutions.com.

My values are traditional Texas values, faith, family, freedom, and the rule of law.

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August / September 2014

The Buzz About Fort Bend Enjoy the Buzz About Fort Bend! Our August/September Social Column is brought to you by SuburbanBuzz, a website development and online marketing company. Contact them at info@suburbanbuzz.com, 281-615-9032, or visit www.suburbanbuzzmarketing.com.

Judge Robert Kern, Tran Pham Rich, Cookie Joe, and Congressman Pete Olson celebrated Texas Independence Day at the annual God Bless Texas event. Cookie Joe’s Dancin’ School donated $1,000 to the Exchange Club of Sugar Land.

The Fort Bend Junior Service League 2014-2015 Board of Directors look forward to a productive year. (Front, l-r) Ashley Joshi-Patel, Katrina Sayes, Debbie Buckner, Cindy Dempster Mimi Zaybak. (Back row) Mindi Zemanek, Dana Clement, Soni Karamchandani, Heather Carroll, Bordelon and Hillary Watson.

Greater Houston Partnership recently unveiled its Houston: The City With No Limits campaign at NRG Stadium. Katy, in particular, was tapped for content to include in campaign messaging, and the Katy Area EDC participated in focus groups during the effort¹s research phase. Pictured (L-R) are Paul Hobby, chairman of the board of GHP and Jamey Rootes, chairman of the campaign task force Photo Credit: Greater Houston Partnership / David Brown.

Gallery Furniture and the community of Long Meadow Farms broke ground on the new Gallery Furniture Fort Bend/Grand Parkway on Tuesday, June 3. The store is expected to open in late November/December.

Second chance at life / Second chance at style: Chris Peacock launches his local Redemption Clothing line, aiming at physically fit and fashion-forward people with a spiritual theme – the good and evil battles within ourselves.

Two horsewomen, DeeDee Buck and Tajana Mesic, rode in the City of Fulshear’s July 4th Freedom Fest parade.

August / September 2014

For Advertising Information, Call (281) 497-6455 • www.FortBendChristianMagazine.com • 17

Christian Business Profile: Final Touch Roofing By Ann Baker In a highly competitive industry, reputation is everything. Meet Paul Kropf, owner of Final Touch Roofing. In 1993 he opened his business in Houston, then relocated his corporate office to Rosenberg in 2007. Over two decades he has built a clientele based on fast response and expedited job completion. Expert residential roofing, repair, inspection and remodeling services are his hallmarks – along with siding, gutters, skylights and patios. “We carry both worker’s comp and liability insurance,” says Kropf noting that because the State of Texas doesn’t require licensing, some residential roofing companies do not carry insurance. His portfolio of commercial work includes apartment buildings and churches. The company’s service areas go well beyond Rosenberg and include Bryan/College Station, Atascocita, Spring, Katy, Houston, Pearland, Needville and more.

Corporate Values “Our commitment to excellence shows through in our work, our service, our employees, and our many happy customers,” says Kropf. His business rates A+ with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and has consistently high rankings on Angie’s List. Kropf serves as an executive vice president on the Roofing Contractors Association of Texas (RCAT) board as well as RCAT’s Houston chapter. He also served on the Houston BBB roofer advisory council board and is a member of the Central Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce.

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August / September 2014

Giving Back

All in the Family

Since 2005, Kropf ’s team has been working with Habitat for Humanity. In 2007 they began taking care of the roofing jobs for Fort Bend County’s Habitat for Humanity, including labor and material. Final Touch Roofing also participates in the Helping a Hero Organization through fundraising and the installation of three roofs, free of charge. Last year Kropf created a “give back to the community” project with the Sugar Land Policeman’s Association. “We look forward to these types of projects every year, and are continually looking for ways to expand on these programs,” says Kropf.

Kropf has multiple roofing crews, and his sons Zak and Nik, his wife Crystal, his brother Hughes, as well as his nephew Ted Durrett, have helped grow the family owned and operated business. They are members of Joy Lutheran Church in Richmond. “Our focus is beauty and quality performance to ensure years of trouble-free service,” Says Kropf. Final Touch Roofing is located at 2518 First Street, Rosenberg, TX 77471. Call them at (281) 341-5779, email finaltouchroof@ earthlink.net, and visit the website at www.finaltouchroofing.com.

Credentials and Awards

“We are a Master Elite Contractor for the GAF Shingle Corp., a highly sought after award that displays just how exceptional we are,” explains Kropf. Only contractors who demonstrate 1.) proper licensing, 2.) adequate insurance, 3.) commitment to training to ensure quality installation, and a 4.) proven reputation for quality roofing services can attain this status. These stringent requirements allow only 3% of all roofing contractors qualify as Master Elite contractors. “We won all three GAF Excellence awards for multiple years, which are Consumer Protection Excellence, Training Excellence, and Installation Excellence. Only nine contractors in the entire state of Texas won all three awards in 2012,” says Kropf.

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Working hard to save the Citizen’s valuable time and money “I’ll continue my tradition of welcoming your suggestions as we strive to better serve you”

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August / September 2014

Confused about Obamacare? By Emory Guest Have you experienced a big change in your life? You might be able to obtain health insurance without medical underwriting. That’s right! Certain life events might qualify you to sign up for health insurance. Examples include: • Marriage or divorce • Birth or death in the family • Moving or change in your employment • Graduating and losing coverage you had through school • Turning 26 and losing your parent’s coverage *You have 60 days from a life event to get covered.

What Makes it Different this Time? Answer: A little something called The Affordable Care Act or “Obamacare”. We are currently living through the most significant regulatory overhaul of the U.S. healthcare system since the passage of Medicare in 1965. For most of us, the bottom line is that it gives us the opportunity to purchase health insurance from private insurance companies regardless of our existing health conditions. In Texas, citizens use the Federally Facilitated Marketplace (FFM) to learn, compare, and purchase individual policies. You can call the toll-free number (800-318-2596), go to the Marketplace website (www.Healthcare.gov), or work with an insurance agent who is registered in the FFM. An annual enrollment period has been established between November 15 and February

15 of each year with coverage beginning the following 1st of the month, but not before January 1st. Purchasing coverage through the Marketplace outside of this annual open enrollment period is limited to only those who qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, like those described in the opening paragraph of this article.

Affordability In order to keep coverage affordable, everyone would have to buy insurance. Therefore, the law included the controversial Minimal Essential Coverage Mandate combined with a tax penalty provision designed to compel all U.S. citizens to participate. In order for individuals to comply with the law and avoid making an Individual Shared Responsibility Payment (ISRP), you must have minimal essential coverage or an approved exemption at all times beginning January 1st, 2014. Minimal essential coverage

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You Can Get an Exemption in the Following Cases

includes individual market policies, job-based coverage, Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP, and TRICARE. Health plans that don’t meet minimum essential coverage don’t qualify as coverage in 2014. If you have these types of plans as your only means of coverage, you may have to pay the ISRP. Examples: coverage only for a specific disease or condition, workers’ compensation, and plans that offer only discounts on medical services.

• • • • • • • •

Uninsured for less than 3 months of the year The lowest-priced coverage available to you would cost more than 8% of your household income You don’t have to file a tax return because you have a low income. You’re a member of a federally recognized tribe or eligible for services through an Indian Health Services provider You’re a member of a recognized health care sharing ministry You’re a member of a recognized religious sect with religious objections to insurance, including Social Security and Medicare You’re incarcerated and not being held pending disposition of charges You’re not lawfully present in the U.S.

Or, you may qualify for a “hardship” exemption if If you can afford health insurance but choose not to buy it, you will be asked to pay the ISRP fee on your annual tax return for that year. The fee in 2014 is 1% of your yearly income or $95 per person for the year, whichever is higher. For 2016, it’s 2.5% of income or $695 per person, whichever is higher. If you’re uninsured for just part of the year, 1/12 of the yearly penalty applies to each month you’re uninsured. If you’re uninsured for less than three months, you don’t have to make the payment.

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• • •

last 24 months that resulted in substantial debt You experienced unexpected increases in necessary expenses due to caring for an ill, disabled, or aging family member You expect to claim a child as a tax dependent who’s been denied coverage in Medicaid and CHIP, and another person is required by court order to give medical support to the child You were determined ineligible for Medicaid because your state didn’t expand eligibility for Medicaid

Non-Hardship Exemptions If you’re applying for an exemption based on: coverage being unaffordable; membership in a health care sharing ministry; membership in a federally-recognized tribe; or being incarcerated, you have two options for filing for an exemption. You can claim these “non-hardship” exemptions when you fill out your 2014 federal tax return, which is due in April 2015. Or, you can submit an exemption-specific form quickly which gives you time to reduce the penalty should your exemption request be denied. In case your exemption is not approved, forms are available from www.Healthcare.gov or by calling (800) 318-2596. Emory Guest, CFP® is an agent registered with the Federally Facilitated Marketplace (FFM) and is the owner of Cinco Ranch Financial and Guest Agency. To obtain more information about this and other topics, check out www.CincoRanchFinancial.com, www. GuestAgency.com or email him at emory@cincofinancial.com.

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August / September 2014

Are All Politics Dirty? By Gary Gillen Politics is what one has to go through to get to Government. You might say it is the road that leads to seeing your vision for your community—whether that be a neighborhood association, municipal utilities district, city, school district, county, state or nation—put into place. And politics is something we love to hate. I was in a meeting recently when one member of the group said, “I just hate all the dirty politics.” I asked what she considered “dirty politics.” When she had no answer I asked her if an advertisement that compares one candidate to another such as voting record, community involvement, education and the like would qualify as “dirty politics?” She replied that in her opinion it would. Another member of the group said he thought comparison ads were fair game as long as they are honest. Then he reminded the group of a cowardly and dishonest anonymous letter that was sent out during a recent Sugar Land race smearing a candidate

with thinly veiled bigotry and racism. The group agreed that the letter qualified as dirty politics in several ways. First, the author and whoever may have helped send it weren’t courageous enough to put their names on it. Second, the content of the letter was misleading and dishonest. Finally, the letter personally attacked the candidate. The sad thing about that incident is that Sugar Land is really better than that. Most people do not take the time or know how to really research candidates in elections. And it is impossible for a candidate to meet every voter in his voting area. That leaves political advertising. Whether it is a newspaper advertisement, radio or television ad or a direct mail piece, the candidate must introduce

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himself and, often, differentiate himself from the other candidates. We all agree, I think, that saying something that is untrue about your opponent would be dishonest and “dirty politics.” Comparison ads, however, if done honestly can actually educate the voter. Let’s say you are a candidate for a position. You have lived in the voting district for 28 years. Your opponent moved into the district in order to run 6 months ago. Is it fair to compare the years you have lived there to the time your opponent has lived there? I think it is fair because it is a provable fact. Or perhaps you have voted in the Primary Election of a particular party for 20 years. Your opponent has never voted in that Party’s Primary election but claims to be a staunch member of that Party. Would it be fair to point that out? Again, I think it is, because a voting record is public information. Many voters are unaware that their voting record is available to the public. Anyone can see the elections in which you have voted but not your vote. I think we can all agree that candidates who use comparison ads should compare themselves with their opponents honestly. But what if a candidate is dishonest about whom they are? In a recent race in Fort Bend County one candidate claimed to be a conservative, even telling some people she was a Republican. A check of the Texas Ethics Commission website and the Federal Elections Commission website showed that this “conservative” had contributed thousands of dollars to President Barack Obama, thousands of dollars to the Fort Bend Democratic Party, thousands more to Democratic Clubs and a whopping $15,000 to Emily’s List – the organization dedicated to electing pro-choice Democratic Women. One wonders how the prominent Pro-Life Catholic Republicans who supported her felt when this information was discovered? The voters would probably not know about this hypocrisy were it not for political advertising. The General Elections are to be held in November. Traditionally the campaign season begins after Labor Day. As your mailbox begins to fill up with political mail take the time to look at the pieces. Decide for yourself if the information appears honest, useful and appropriate. When you receive a comparison advertisement look at the comparisons. Are they comparing relevant facts? Do they cite the source of the information and is it provable? Every year you are told that this is the most important election of your life. Many believe this one is. Take the time to educate yourself about the issues and the candidates. Then share what you learn with your friends and family. Our future depends on it. Gary Gillen owns and operates Gillen Pest Control and Gillen Political Strategies in Richmond. He is the only person in history to have served on both the Richmond City Commission and Rosenberg City Council. He was also the Chairman of the Republican Party of Fort Bend County 2006-2007.

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August / September 2014

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August / September 2014