Fort Bend Christian Magazine | Oct. / Nov. 2014

FORT BEND

Faithfully Serving Sugar Land, Missouri City, Richmond, Rosenberg and Stafford October / November 2014 • Complimentary

GiGi’s Top 10’s for Graceful Living

Therapy Dogs of Houston Hospice

Financial Focus on Higher Education

Pastor Profile: Loreto DiCesare of Church on the Rock

2014 Christian Voter’s Guide

Millions Mobilized in Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Korean War Veteran Rings the Bell

www.FortBendChristianMagazine.com • For Advertising Information, Call (281) 497-6455 October / November 2014

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President & Publisher-In-Chief FORT BEND

Volume I, Issue 2 6

Therapy Dogs of Houston Hospice

10

A Homeschooling Journey

12

Passion for Humanity

14

An Awakening

16

Pastor Profile: Loreto DiCesare of Church on the Rock

18

Financial Focus on Higher Education

22

As I See It: Dirty Politics and the End of Non-Partisan Races

25

GiGi’s Top 10’s for Graceful Living

30

Gracelets: Wear Your Bible

35

Korean War Veteran Rings the Bell

38

Millions Mobilized in Walk to End Alzheimer’s

42

2014 Christian Voter’s Guide

44

Local Christian Student Highlights

45

The Buzz About Fort Bend

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.”

Joseph Menslage , President / Publisher-in-Chief joseph@houstonchristianmagazine.com Malisia Garcia, Publisher & Business Development Manager mali@fortbendchristianmagazine.com Melanie Saxton, Editor-in-Cheif melanie@fortbendchristianmagazine.com Kris Prewitt, Senior Account Executive kris@fortbendchristianmagazine.com Hannah Menslage Assistant to the Publisher hannah@fortbendchristianmagazine.com

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

Greetings! How exciting that October is upon us (and November is just around the corner). It’s a new season filled with opportunities to raise awareness for causes near and dear to our heart. This issue features inspirational stories, from cancer survivors to Christian entrepreneurs who make a difference in our community.

As families, we all look forward to strengthening our relationship with the Lord, whether through worship or volunteering for those in need. Enjoy a word from Pastor Loreto DiCesare and glimpse into the diverse congregation of Church on the Rock in Sugar Land. Also read all about the wonderful (and precious) therapy dogs who bring joy to hospice patients. These uplifting features will warm your heart!

Please support local Christian businesses that make our magazine possible – and available to you at no charge! Also, we want to hear from you! Please share your news with our editor in chief, Melanie@fortbendchristianmagazine.com, for consideration in upcoming issues.

Joseph R. Menslage President/Publisher Fort Bend Christian Magazine joseph@houstonchristianmagazine.com

Letter From The Publisher We are so pleased to share our second issue of Fort Bend Christian Magazine… and we couldn’t do it without our wonderful magazine family. From our sales professionals to our talented photographer to our wonderful writers, we work hard to share Christ’s message through the trials and triumphs of others.

I hope you read our publication from cover to cover and share it with friends, family and coworkers! Please let us know about your own family-friendly news so that we may consider it for publication. We’ll need your photography, as well! It is an honor to publish heartwarming and inspiration stories from the community, and what we have seen so far is utterly amazing.

Our hope is that our magazine editorial moves hearts and minds closer to God. Every journey blesses us richly, so keep it coming! Now more than ever, please pray for the Christian families and businesses in our area that they may be a light unto others and a beacon for the kingdom.

Malisia Garcia Publisher Fort Bend Christian Magazine mali@fortbendchristianmagazine.com

Letter from the Editor-in-Chief Hello to our readers in and around Fort Bend! We’ve been busy gathering community news of interest to Christians, from our social column to an informative homeschooling article, and much more!

As cooler weather heads our way, we’ll soon be spending time around the Thanksgiving dinner table. Our etiquette expert GiGi Lewis shares insightful tips to help kiddos freshen their manners (and a few pointers for Mom and Dad, as well). We’ll post these articles and much more at www.fortbendchristianmagazine.com and on our Facebook page. Please follow along and join the fun!

A special “thank you” to our advertisers who light up each page with their family-friendly businesses. And as always, we thank YOU – our wonderful readers! May God bless you this fall and throughout the months to come!

Melanie Saxton, Editor-in-Chief Fort Bend Christian Magazine melanie@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.

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October / November 2014

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The Therapy Dogs of Houston Hospice

By Karla Goolsby

Don’t be surprised if you spot a wagging tail and hear the patter of paws trotting along hallways of Houston Hospice. There are furry volunteers afoot in a place that emphasizes life – even the last precious remnants of life. In the midst of the largest medical center in the world, this 1920s estate welcomes patients, families and volunteers from Fort Bend, Harris, Waller, Wharton, Montgomery, Matagorda, Austin, Colorado, Brazoria and Jackson counties.

A “Tail” of Love 10 years ago the pet therapy program began with volunteer Ann James and her docile Golden Retriever, Chrissy. When Chrissy laid her head in an elderly neighbor’s lap, Ann realized her dog was a natural therapy pet. She found a certification program through Faithful Paws, a ministry of Bellaire United Methodist Church, and recruited friend and fellow Golden Retriever owner Lynn Hoster. After training and certification, Chrissy and Lynn’s dog Dixie inspired more dogs to join in.

The Importance of Comfort I shadowed Chris Chisholm and Jazz, her rescued Cavalier King Charles Spaniel this past June. Chris said, “I’m so glad you’re writing this story!” The volunteer training at Houston Hospice alleviated her own fear

Photo Credit: Lehane Richards

of death, and she has a new understanding of the importance of comfort.

Judy Anderson and Casey, her Bichon Frise, were also in attendance. Judy said, “Sometimes patients are unresponsive, but their families are helped.

The visits bring them happiness at a very stressful time.” As we walked the halls, every soul flashed broad, unabashed smiles at the dogs — the kind that spring from real joy.

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Because Jazz instinctively knew what to do, the mother had a few more precious moments with her little girl.

Amazing Responses Next I trailed along with Loretta Uzick and her well dressed Yorkshire Terriers, Cricket and Skyler. Cricket has volunteered one year and Skyler is a puppy in training. Loretta loves meeting new people and has the gift of gab. But more important is the gift of listening, which she learned through volunteer training classes. “The dogs get me in the door, and sometimes families and patients will open up and talk,” she explains.

As I walked through the inpatient unit, family and friends of patients stopped Loretta constantly. A woman from San Francisco who was visiting her brother showed us her iPhone filled with photos of with Jazz snuggled next to her brother’s legs.

Photo Credit: Ann James Photo (top), Lehane Richards (right)

Instinctive Compassion On their very first visit, Chris and Judy entered the room of a five-yearold who had been unresponsive all day. Chris asked the mother if she could place Jazz on the little girl’s bed. Jazz began licking the girl’s hand… and the hand moved. Then Jazz began licking the little girl’s face. The child opened her eyes and her mother asked, “Do you like the dog honey?

Isn’t he pretty?” The little girl responded!

When it was time to leave, the mother followed Jazz into the hall and walked sobbing into Chris’s open arms. The child died that night.

Volunteers at the Heart of Hospice My final ‘walk along’ was with Cassie Chiaro and her Yorkie Vala, and Brenda Chan and Andie, her Gold Retriever mix. Cassie and Brenda met during Houston Hospice volunteer training, hit it off, and became partners. Together with their dogs, they visit almost every week.

As we neared the exit, we paused at a bench where Mindy Fleisches and her teenage son, Michael Mescon, were resting after hours of being at their loved one’s bedside. When they looked up wearily, Cassie and Brenda invited them to pet the dogs. Michael lifted Vala to his face and asked if he could keep her. Mindy stroked Andie’s soft golden fur and said, “Thank you. I feel better.” This perfect moment illustrates the purpose of Houston Hospice therapy dogs and their owners.

Karla Goolsby is a Communications Specialist at Houston Hospice. Learn more at www.houstonhospice.org.

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A Homeschooling Journey

By June Summerfield

Fort Bend resident Helen Reyneke will tell you that homeschooling is not a cookie cutter, one-size-fits-all experience. People home school for many reasons and have different learning philosophies and teaching styles.

Reyneke, a mother of two, shares the adventures of homeschooling Philip, her firstborn, throughout 11 years. Academic success was something she wanted for her son, but it was not her success or defeats that mattered in the end.

“It was never something that was supposed to work for me… but for Philip,” she says. And it did.

Why Homeschool?

Homeschooling “success” is different for everyone based on why they homeschool and their goals. Reyneke pulled Philip out of first grade during spring break of 2003 not because the school was bad or because he did poorly, but because he got on the bus at 7:45am and didn’t get home until 4:10pm. That’s a long day for a 6 year old and Reyneke was not ready to be an “empty nester.”

Philip was a micro preemie (born at 25 weeks weighing 1lb 8oz) and biologically 4 years old when he started kindergarten – by far the tiniest student. He had constant chronic lung infections from kids coughing and sneezing in class. In addition, Reyneke felt she could do a better job than the school on academics… and was afraid she’d lose her child to the world if he remained in public school.

Mastering Independence As a preteen Philip didn’t know when he was “schooling” and when he was playing. Sure, there were subjects he didn’t like, but some things he loved so much that he continued working even if “school” was done. Using Veritas Press, a very challenging Classical education program, things went according to plan. But at 13, the student started questioning the teacher’s ways.

Philip said, “Mom, you are micro managing my life to the last second. Please, just give me your list of what you want me to do and I promise I will do it on my own schedule.” Relinquishing control was difficult, but created an independent learner.

A Wonderful Young Man

Who would have guessed that by God’s grace the preemie would grow to over 6 feet tall? The piano playing his mother felt distracted from Philip’s studies led to a passion for classical music and an ability to teach beginner lessons to 5-8 year olds.

All those Boy Scout Troop 320 meetings produced an Eagle Scout. At 15 Philip was accepted to Lone Star College’s dual credit program. At 17 he was awarded huge academic scholarships at all the universities he applied to, choosing UH’s Honors College because it gave him the closest to a full ride and also accepted his 39 credits from Lone Star towards his degree. We congratulate this remarkable young man and his “Tiger Mom” for their many achievements!

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Passion for Humanity

By Summer Hoover

It’s a horrible topic (nearly unthinkable), but the fact is that human slavery still exists. In fact, there are more slaves today in the world than there have been at any other point in history. The number is estimated to exceed 28 million, and roughly half of those are children.

You might think that this atrocity only occurs on the other side of the world, but an estimated 14,500 to 17,500 adults and children are trafficked into the United States every year. Major port cities take on the brunt of this horrific industry, and Houston is no exception.

In fact, Houston is the number one trafficking hub in the nation.

Evil Among Us If you’re unfamiliar with the term, human trafficking is the buying and selling of a person for forced labor, and it most commonly leads to sexual exploitation. It is an evil that doesn’t discriminate based upon age, gender, race, or religion and can rob the life of anyone. Victims are literally bought and sold as sex objects to be abused by multiple men and women each day. Neighborhoods, nail salons and massage parlors are often fronts for brothels, and these brothels can be found even in the nicest Houston suburbs.

According to freeourcity.org, an organization dedicated to fighting against human slavery, there are “approximately 200 active brothels in Houston” and “Houston is home to more strip clubs and illicit spas than Las Vegas.”

Christians Stepping In Chilling, isn’t it? But the bottom line is, Christians are among the greatest enemies of human traffickers because we care so deeply and feel compelled to take action. A host of organizations and volunteers are fighting against human trafficking in and around our cities. Victims are being rescued. Lives are being changed. People who once felt hopeless

now have futures before them. Awareness is a key factor in diminishing and hopefully eradicating human trafficking. Once healed from the abuse, many former victims are able to once again have normal lives.

You Can Help… On a Bicycle!

Families can help by participating in the first annual MS150 Recommended Bike Ride on November 15. Starting at Simonton Community Church in Simonton, JUST RIDE For A Just Cause will kick off November 15 with breakfast at 7:30. The ride has something for everyone, including a scenic ride for the less experienced, to more challenging routes for the avid rider. These well-planned routes range from 11 to 73 miles providing the rider with opportunities to ride at a comfort or challenge level.

The ride begins at 8:30 a.m. with a staggered start (longest distance

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October / November 2014

Resources Proceeds from Just Ride help support Redeemed Ministries and Restore Her, two non-profit organizations that provide direct aftercare support for victims of commercial sexual exploitation in the greater Houston area. Many in the community have already donated their time and energy into making this event possible, including ten churches and fifteen private businesses. Pictured is the Just Ride for a Just Cause Planning Team: Top Row, L-R: Cathy Sturm, Lution Hill, Cheryl Aronson. Bottom Row, L-R: Aaron Pichon, John Crowe, Dave Marstiller.

Sign up for the ride at http://passionforhumanity. net. Also visit www.redeemedministries.com, http:// freeourcity.org, and http://stillcreekranch.org to become educated about human trafficking.

riders leave first). Lunch is provided for all participants with breakpoints every 10 – 15 miles. Refreshments will be provided at all breakpoints to keep riders hydrated and energized. Police will provide escorts through major intersections with mechanical and medical support at the rest stops. SAG vehicles and Ride Marshall support also is included. The course closes at 3:00 p.m.

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An Awakening

By Karen Rice

When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I reacted like most who receive this diagnosis. The first thing came to mind was a “death sentence.” I found out, however, that it was truly an “awakening” for me.

Gaining Perspective I asked God, “Why would you do this to me? What have I done in life that was so bad to have this placed upon me?” But then I decided to seek out the positive. There had to be a reason for it all.

I was about to face a new beginning and find new hope. I thought about the “gift of life” and knew I would develop strength from this experience. I would do and see more with a whole new perspective.

Struck by Lightning Twice?

I wasn’t happy with the way I looked after surgery, nor did I like the neuropathic pain I endured each day. But I decided to snap out of it. I had to snap out of it again after being diagnosed with another cancer (colon) a few years later. It took me by surprise, sort of like being struck by lightning twice. What were the odds of battling two different cancers in one body? I even made jokes, like “What am I, the cancer carrier?” I cried inside and sought, once again, the positive side of an illness.

And so the bottom line is this: There are individuals who are no

GiGi Lewis, Steve Dyer, and Melanie Saxton meet with Karen Rice

longer among us… and I still have my life. Who am I to complain? Even with all the struggles, I still feel truly blessed.

Putting Words to Experience I believe when you survive a disease as horrible as cancer, it’s for a reason – perhaps to share, encourage others, or just lead by example. For me, it is writing. One day during a surgery, I experienced something of a miracle – as if I went to the other side. Compelled to write it down, I turned that experience into a poem called “Peace.” I never anticipated

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October / November 2014

becoming an author, but I placed that poem and many others into a book entitled “True Simple Poems of Life, Faith and Survival.”

I later wrote a children’s book and am working on my third. Hopefully anyone who reads my poems gets out of them what I placed in all of them.

They are from the heart, as real as any could ever be. I wish to make a positive impact on someone who is ill so they can develop the strength to embrace life in a whole new way. That’s what I’m all about now, inspiration through words.

Living Proof My life is a testimony that you can survive cancer not once, but twice, providing you catch it in time, have faith and allow that faith to direct your path. I’m not saying all will be easy, for I’ve had my moments from the beginning. But remember, there is always a purpose. Had I not gone through it, I would have never produced inspirational words to bless others.

By the way, my breast cancer wasn’t found by a mammogram. It was detected by an ultrasound.

Either way, you must be tested, and no matter the outcome… be strong, deal with it, and believe.

Note from the Editor

About Karen Rice

As a two-time cancer survivor and author, Karen wants nothing more than to lift up women who face seemingly impossible odds. You can find her books on Barnes & Noble and Amazon.

We were so inspired by Karen’s journey that several of our magazine columnists met with her, including GiGi Lewis, Paige Holsapple and Steve Dyer. What an honor to shake the hand of this lovely woman of God and learn more about her positive outlook. Please pray for Karen’s continued health and healing.

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Pastor Profile: Pastor Loreto DiCesare of Church on the Rock

By Ann Baker

When Pastor Loreto DiCesare speaks of Church on the Rock (Iglesia Sobre La Roca), it is with gratitude for many blessings. “God has done miracles opening a big door for our church in Sugar Land,” he says. At first a small group of faithful men and women prayed for a special piece of land, then the whole church family joined in.

A few days later they learned the land had been sold. But that did not defeat their faith, and miraculously the land became available once again. This great victory permitted the congregation to see day by day the construction of a temple of the Lord with a capacity for seven hundred members.

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and HE gave me the passion for music.” Pastor DiCesare played the organ and put together choirs to sing praises for many years.

Another blessing was, and is, his perfect partner for life, his lovely wife Nora. The couple married in 1955 and had three children, Carlos, Gracie and Samuel. In 1963 they took a leap of faith and traveled to America, the land of freedom, dreams, opportunities and a new language.

Daughters Claudia and Rebecca were born and for many years the family

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ARE WE STILL ONE NATION UNDER

Pastor Loreto DiCesare

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Personal Testimony On a very cold day, July 13, 1935, Pastor DiCesare was born in the city of Mendoza, Argentina, surrounded by the breathtaking beautiful Andes Mountains. One night as a little boy he cried to his father, saying, “I don’t wont to die and go hell!” His father shared the gospel with him and that night he received Jesus Christ as his Savior. The Holy Spirit gave him complete peace, and life was never again the same! “God’s presence was with me always,” he says. “I asked the LORD to use me for his Glory

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October / November 2014

worked toward establishing a place of worship in the Spanish community.

Pastor DiCesare was ordained and joined Church on the Rock in 1988.

Amazing Outreach As an evangelist pastor and elder, he traveled around the world preaching the Gospel and working in crusades with Rev. Billy Graham in Houston and Amsterdam, and with Evangelist Alberto Mottesi in various countries. The Lord showed him a vision of “Cadena de Oracion” — a human chain of believers praying together around the world in one voice!

Eventually Fellowship Christian Academy joined Church on the Rock, and together these ministries became a light in the community, serving as a school for over 100 children. The church campus is filled

Church on the Rock, 16355 Old Richmond Rd in Sugar Land, TX

with learning, laughter and praise all week. But there is still much to do and build: a home for the elderly, a Bible school, and a home for children without a mother or father.

Join in Fellowship!

All are invited to services at 16355 Old Richmond Rd., Sugar Land, TX 77498. Call 281-568-7622 and learn more about the exciting church outreach at www.islr.org.

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

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Financial Focus on Higher Education

By Peter Horton

Can we avoid “cramming” for college savings?

This article (courtesy of Edward Jones) helps parents focus on the future — and tuition expenditures.

It can be expensive.

The average cost for one year at an in-state public school is $22,261, while the comparable expense for a private school is $43,289, according to the College Board’s figures for the 2012–2013 academic year.

And these costs will probably continue to rise.

Still, there’s no need to panic. Your child could receive grants or scholarships to college, which would lower the “sticker price.” But it’s still a good idea for you to save early and often.

To illustrate the importance of getting an early jump on college funding, let’s look at two examples of how you might fund a college education. A 529 plan is one way — but not the only way — to save for college. (The following examples are hypothetical in nature and don’t reflect the performance of an actual investment or investment strategy.)

Example 1: Suppose you started saving for your child’s college edu-

cation when she was 3 years old. If you contributed $200 a month, for 15 years, to a 529 plan that earned 7% a year, you’d accumulate about $64,000 by the time your daughter turned 18. With a 529 plan, your earnings grow tax free, provided all withdrawals are used for qualified

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higher education purposes. (Keep in mind, though, that 529 plan distributions not used for qualified expenses may be subject to federal and state income tax and a 10% IRS penalty.)

Example 2: Instead of starting to save when your child was 3, you wait 10 years, until she turns 13. You put in the same $200 per month to a 529 plan that earns the same 7% a year. After five years, when your daughter has turned 18, you will have accumulated slightly less than

$15,000.

Clearly, there’s a big disparity between $64,000 and $15,000. So, if you don’t want to be in a position where you have to start putting away huge sums of money each month to “catch up” on your college savings, you’ll be well advised to start saving as early as possible — specifically, during the first few years of your child’s life.

Of course, given all your other expenses, you may find it challenging to begin putting away money for college. And with so many years to go until you actually need the money, it’s tempting to put off your savings for another day. But those “other days” can add up — and before you know it, college will be looming.

Consequently, you may want to put your savings on “autopilot” by setting up a bank authorization to move money each month into a college savings account. And, as your income rises, you may be able to increase your monthly contributions.

Save early, save often: It’s a good strategy for just about any investment goal — and it can make an especially big difference when it comes to paying for the high costs of higher education.

Peter L Horton is an Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Please contact him at peter.horton@edwardjones.com or 281-491-0244 if you have any questions.

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October / November 2014

WINTER BASKETBALL LEAGUE For Boys and Girls Accepting registrations beginning September 2nd-November 8th.

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Boys & girls in K-2nd grade Same as PARC league The PARC Gymnasium * Saturday mornings with an 8 game season

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Do You Prepare More for Family Vacations Than You Do for College?

Having fun with your family is important. But nothing is more vital than your child’s future. That’s why at Edward Jones, we can help you put together a strategy to save for college.

For a free, personalized college cost report, call or visit today.

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Using our education funding tool, we can estimate future expenses at more than 3,000 schools and then recommend a financial strategy based on your unique needs. True, vacations are great. But graduation ceremonies are even better. www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

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October / November 2014

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As I See It: Dirty Politics and the End of Non-partisan Races

By Gary Gillen

Statement one: “He supports Affirmative Action, raising taxes and amnesty for illegal immigrants.”

Statement two: “He’s a Tea Party Republican.”

In our last issue I discussed political advertising and what constitutes “dirty politics.” If you read the two statements above, both sound honest and provable, right? In fact, both statements were used in a recent race for City Council of Missouri City, but not in a way you might first imagine.

It is entirely plausible that a liberal Democratic candidate might state publicly that he supports all three issues in the first line when appealing to the party faithful. The second line, too, might be a position a conservative Republican candidate would publicly state when addressing like-minded supporters.

Misleading Voters But what if the target audience of each message was reversed?

This is precisely what happened in the recent election for City Councilman. In mail pieces and automated phone calls sent to Republican voters, the first statement was used to deceptively describe sitting Councilman Danny Nguyen (a Republican) as a liberal. This led some to believe he intended to raise taxes and give amnesty to people who broke our laws to get here. None of it was true.

The second line went to Democratic households who, presumably, would not support a member of the Tea Party. They were led to believe that Danny Nguyen is an extreme conservative.

This dirty shadow campaign succeeded in ousting a sitting Republican City Councilman who, I am told, served the citizens well.

Aut

Evading Election Laws The sender, in violation of Texas law, is a mystery. In Texas, political communications must carry a disclaimer so the recipient knows who funded the message. I personally reviewed several political mailers in this race and they did not have the required political disclaimer. We cannot tell who sent them. The automated telephone calls did not identify who originated the call. Voters who might otherwise consider the source could not verify the accuracy or honesty of the message.

These vicious and mean spirited campaigners hid behind secrecy and counted on votes from a deceived (or gullible) electorate, not trusting the outcome of an honest campaign. They obviously believed they couldn’t win without breaking the law and lying. In their view, the end justified the means.

This is not the way good people win elections. And it doesn’t bode well for truly “non-partisan” political races in Fort Bend County (now a thing of the past). This wake up call for voters teaches that we should never, ever accept statements at face value without doing a little homework.

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October / November 2014

Obama Supporter

Fort Bend County Democratic Party Chairman Don Bankston, in a letter addressed to “Dear Democrats” stated, “We have some excellent Democratic candidates” for Fort Bend School Board and City of Missouri City races. In the race for Missouri City Council, “Chris (Preston) is a strong Democrat and supporter of President Obama.” It is Chris Preston who beat incumbent Danny Nguyen, a Republican casualty of the above-mentioned illegal advertising.

Now let’s revisit the words of Fort Bend Republican Chairman Mike Gibson. He said the GOP “did not actively engage in the campaign because the local races were non-partisan.” Sounds like a decision the Republicans of Fort Bend County should reconsider.

That’s just how I see 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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GiGi’s Top 10s for Graceful Living

By GiGi Lewis www.clubetiquette.com

Come Lord Jesus, be our guest. Let this food to us be blessed. Amen.

With Thanksgiving fast approaching, now is a great time to brush up on holiday etiquette. My Top 10 Tips will get you started!

1. Have your children participate. Let them plan the Thanksgiving holiday and help decorate, set the table, and shop for food.

2. Hosting 101: The secret to entertaining with ease is to plan, plan, plan… and anticipate, anticipate, anticipate! From the menu to sprucing up your front lawn, a guest truly feels special when they notice that you made a special effort for them. Count out your place settings and pull them out in advance. Prep ahead of time so that you can relax and enjoy your guests. As the old saying goes, “Guests want a hostess, not a ghostess.”

3. Good Guest Basics: If you are invited to someone’s Thanksgiving dinner, R.S.V.P. in a timely manner with a head count. Don’t ask to invite someone else. Clue your children in on basic table manners and tell them not to explore the host’s home (including the refrigerator) without permission.

4. Basic dining manners: Common mistakes are putting a used utensil back on the table instead of on the plate, picking up any item that has fallen to the floor, and using fingers instead of a knife or piece of bread to get your food onto a fork. Children should keep a napkin on their lap throughout the meal.

5. Role-play: Make manners fun by anticipating your child’s challenges and making a little game of it. For example, many children feel awkward when being introduced to new people. If your children are young

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enough, have them practice introductions with a teddy bear, then graduate to practicing with you. This can take five minutes. Encourage them to ask at least one question to begin a conversation. Teach them appropriate and inappropriate questions.

6. Hostess gifts: A gift can be as simple as holiday napkins. Two main things to ask yourself when selecting a hostess gift are: 1.) Food is not a hostess gift. And remember that your super duper family recipe is inappropriate here, unless preplanned by you and the hostess. 2.) Is the gift something that they would really use?

7. Sit down dinners: Wait for the host or hostess to take the first bite.

You don’t want to be nibbling when everyone else’s heads are bowed to say a blessing.

8. Taste a bit of everything: Etiquette books state that it is fine to refuse certain foods at the table. But the common practice here in the south is to try a little of everything. Encourage your child not to say, “Ewww, I don’t like this.” Establish how they should handle foods they dislike before attending the event.

9. Offer to help: As a guest, remember to help clean after the meal.

10. Thanksgiving is a time of thankfulness: Remember to verbally thank all participants, including your own family members. Then write a family thank you note afterwards for the hosts. Optional: Slip in a snapshot of the day. If you want to know more about how to write a powerful thank you note, contact me at etiquettechick@gmail.com.

From my home to yours, have a blessed and safe holiday season.

October / November 2014

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Gracelets: Wear Your Bible!

By Melanie Saxton

Meet bracelet designer Kara Johnson. Her “Gracelets” are an out-pouring of love for God and a way to help others come to know undeserved, unfailing and unending grace. “This jewelry enables you to “wear your Bible!” she explains.

Hope and Healing Kara’s story is less about her and more redemption, healing and the plans God has for us all. Her New England childhood was spent in a broken home. She never attended church. Through her troubled teen years she sensed something was “missing” that nothing else seemed to fulfill.

She jokes that the Lord brought her to Houston in 1999 for a job in the middle of the Bible Belt to get her attention. She started attending church because it seemed to be the right thing to do as a new wife and mother. Up until that point she tried to fill in the holes and heal from such a tragic childhood.

In 2001, she met and fell head in heals in love with Jesus. That’s when the true healing and redemption began. He began to patch the holes and Kara overflowed! She wanted to share her newfound faith with her friends, family, neighbors, mailman, Starbucks barista and the lady at the drive-thru window.

When her enthusiasm seemed to be a bit overwhelming to others, she realized that actions often speak louder than words. That’s how the

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October / November 2014

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a devotional tool and daily reminder to keep our hope in the Lord. According to Kara, “My bracelet themes are created as life events touch my heart. The Hope Bracelet was created during a time of great struggle and desire to hold onto the hope and peace that only God could offer me.”

Kara hand strings each with genuine crystal quartz, mother of pearl, freshwater pearl, cat’s eyes beads with an antiqued gold adjustable clasp to fit all hearts and wrist sizes.

concept “wearing the Bible” came about.

Growing Gracelets Kara first experimented with jewelry design in 2001 by twisting crosses out of wire. She once saw a bracelet that told the story of Jesus using beads as symbols, and it opened vast new possibilities for sharing concepts of love, healing, redemption, grace and truth.

For instance, the Hope Gracelet pours through multiple scriptures as

A Woman of Action Kara learned about human trafficking in 2010 and was heartbroken.

“Houston is the capital,” she says. Many ignore the dark and evil atrocity, but Kara trained with Home of Hope and Chrysalis Mentoring to help trafficked and at-risk girls. Through mentoring she learned what the phrase “God uses all things for good” really means. “I was able to relate to the brokenness in these girls and the deep emptiness and need for healing. AND I HAVE A CURE!” she says.

She created a Purity Gracelet to declare a woman’s worth and value.

Kara wanted to breathe this concept into girls. “Studies show girls who have pledged purity with a ceremony of its significance and who are supported by others in doing so are more likely to keep that pledge,” she says. “THAT is the beginning of healing in this sex-saturated, instant-gratification and tolerant culture.”

Girls can make the pledge with or without a bracelet from her website. “I’m praying for 100 girls to take this challenge — to be a light and shine like stars among their generation!” Kara encourages girls to share stories after taking the pledge.

Get Involved!

Learn more about Gracelets and Kara’s missions at gracelets.com, chrysalismentoring.com and homeofhopetexas.com.

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October / November 2014

Korean War Veteran Rings the Bell!

By Holly Chervnsik

While October is a month in which we spread breast cancer awareness, we recently learned of Tom Stewart, an 84-year-old who battled another type of cancer. Exactly one year ago this Sugar Land resident was diagnosed with prostate cancer.

“There was disbelief,” Stewart says of the diagnosis.

“While colon cancer claimed loved ones on both sides of my family, I wasn’t aware of any with prostate cancer.” He chose MD Anderson in Sugar Land for radiation treatment and was advised by his doctors to avoid stress and worry… if possible.

Once he accepted the diagnosis as real, he turned it over to God. “He took good care of me when I was a green horn 2nd Lieutenant on the 38th parallel during the Korean War,” says Stewart. Regardless of outcome, he knew God was still in charge and would handle it.

Thankfully, Stewart’s family members are Christians and gave him total support while maintaining positive attitudes. As a deacon at Sugar Creek Baptist, he also relied on his church family for prayer and emotional support. Today he shares his experience through testimonials and in one-on-one conversations. “I always stress the need to have your PSA checked ROUTINELY by your doctor,” he adds.

Korean War Veteran Tom Stewart celebrates his final treatment at MD Anderson in Sugar Land

Stewart’s faith never wavered, and neither did his routine. As much as possible he continued to bowl, golf, ride his bike and work out throughout his treatment. As a way to count down to survivorship, Stewart collected his coffee cups from each appointment and marked each with the number of remaining treatments from 39 down to one. He brought he whole stack to his final treatment at the end of July 2014 and was

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October / November 2014

able to ring the ceremonial bell to celebrate being cancer free!

But his inspirational journey isn’t over, not by a long shot. In fact, post-cancer, Stewart shows no sign of slowing down. Last month (September) he competed once again in the 26-mile “Pineywoods Purgatory” – a premier cycling event featuring rides ranging from 25 to 102 miles. Stewart has now participated over the past 16 years with his family in the hills above Lufkin (his hometown).

While it gets a little tougher each year, he believes there is nothing more important than maintaining a healthy lifestyle and continuing to challenge himself.

He attributes the success of his treatments to MD Anderson, from his oncologist Dr. Shalin Shah to his medical team to his fellow patients who became fast friends. We are so happy to report the good news of Stewart’s treatment and his journey of faith. May we all be as brave and proactive in the face of a cancer diagnosis!

Tom Stewart rings the bell at MD Anderson in Sugar Land

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Millions Mobilized in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s

By Melanie Saxton

This past Labor Day, a special class of caregivers did not get a day of rest. HBO’s “The Alzheimer’s Project” shares that 70 percent of people with Alzheimer’s live at home, cared for by family and friends. 10 million Americans provide 8.5 billion hours of unpaid care to people with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias.

Those stricken with the disease eventually require roundthe-clock attention.

Often described as “a long goodbye,” Alzheimer’s is an irreversible disease with no known cure. It erodes memory, changes personality and impairs reasoning… inside an otherwise healthy body. In general, those with Alzheimer’s live an average of 8 to 10 years after diagnosis, although that number varies from three to 20 years. “It’s not uncommon for the caregiver to die before the patient,” says Bill Couturié, who directed the HBO project.

The Facts The Alzheimer’s Association website shares statistics that may seem overwhelming. An estimated 5.4 million Americans live with the disease – a number that may triple by 2050 according to researchers. In Texas,

Committee volunteers Helen Curd and Kerry Dannecker with Mayor Thompson

340,000 are living with Alzheimer’s, a number that may increase to 400,000 by 2020. One in eight people aged 65 and older have Alzheimer’s, as do nearly half of people aged 85 and older (43 percent).

This disease demands our attention. “We must make the fight against Alzheimer’s a global priority. It’s up to every one of us to learn more about the disease and join the fight,” says Marisa Ramon, Outreach Coordi-

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October / November 2014

October / November 2014

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The Fort Bend Walk to End Alzheimer’s kicks off with registration at 8 a.m. on October 18 at Constellation Field.

Each year over 700 walkers form teams with family, friends, coworkers, neighborhood groups, and churches. This “family friendly, elder friendly, stroller friendly, dog friendly” event raises funds and awareness.

The “walk for a cure” serves as a memorial for loved ones who have died.

nator for the Alzheimer’s Association, Houston & Southeast Texas Chapter.

October 18: Making a Difference Beyond the daunting facts, there is hope. Every year, people walk to support Alzheimer’s care, support and research.

This “walk for a cure” is a memorial for loved ones who have died. It honors those living with the disease. Some walk to recognize a selfless caregiver. In short, every footstep has personal significance.

The Mayor’s Proclamation

On August 26th, Mayor James A. Thompson and the City of Sugar Land issued a proclamation in support of the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Walkers from Sugar Land, Katy, Cy-Fair and the greater Houston area join hundreds of cities across the globe in raising awareness for Alzheimer’s disease while encouraging citizens to get active in the ongoing battle.

Walk to End Alzheimer’s committee volunteers Helen Curd and Kerry Dannecker (pictured with Mayor Thompson) were on hand to receive the proclamation on behalf of the Alzheimer’s Association, Houston & Southeast Texas Chapter.

How to Get Involved

Visit www.alztex.org/walk for additional information on how to register for the Walk or make a donation. You can also contact Jennifer Giambi at jgiambi@alz.org or 713-314-1319 for more details. The Alzheimer’s Association is the center for help and hope. For care, support and local resources call the toll-free helpline at 1-800-272-3900.

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2014 Christian Voter’s Guide This issue, we’re highlighting our endorsements for local, regional, and state-wide races. We believe that Christians have the opportunity to make a difference in the political process and we encourage you to participate by voting, volunteering, or getting involved.

Member, State Board of Education, District 7 David Bradley

US Representative, District 22 Pete Olson State Senator, District 17 Joan Huffman

Justice, 1st Court of Appeals, Place 3 Russell Lloyd

State Representative, District 26 DF “Rick Miller

District Judge, 240th District Court Thomas R Culver, III

Judge, County Court at Law #4 RH “Sandy” Bielstein

District Judge, 268th District Court Brady G Elliott

District Clerk Annie Rebecca Elliott

District Judge, 328th District Court Ronald R “Ron” Pope

County Clerk Laura Richard

State Representative, District 27 David Hamilton

Justice, 1st Court of Appeals, Place 5 Laura Carter Higley

District Attorney John Healey

State Representative, District 28 John Zerwas

Chief Justice, 14th Court of Appeals Kem Thompson Frost

County Judge Robert E “Bob” Hebert

State Representative, District 85 Phil Stephenson

Justice, 14th Court of Appeals, Place 4 Marc Brown

Judge, County Court at Law #1 Chris Morales

Member, State Board of Education, District 4 Dorothy Olmos

Justice, 14th Court of Appeals, Place 7 Ken Wise

Judge, County Court at Law #2 Jeff McMeans Judge, County Court at Law #3 Susan G Lowery

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Local Christian Student Highlights Austin Huang

Zoya Luttrull

Classification: 8th Grade Cornerstone Christian Academy

Classification: Middle Grades True Knight Home School Academy

If you spend any time around Cornerstone Christian Academy, Austin Huang will be mentioned as a stellar student in the classroom and on the basketball court and track. He was accepted into the illustrious Duke TIP program, been named to the Dean’s List (93 average or above) all four terms, is a member of National Junior Honor Society and scored in the top five percentile in the country on his Stanford Achievement test.

As a member of the CCA Cougar Band he played percussion for the last three years and is an active member of First Colony Church of Christ. Austin’s favorite thing to do after school is to go play basketball. After graduating high school, he hopes to attend Stanford university.

Zoya is a special student at True Knight Home School Academy. She usually has a very positive attitude. She loves reading and has a keen interest in foreign languages. Every free moment you will find her with a book. She is teaching herself Russian, because it is the language of her ancestors. Mathematics is her least favorite subject. On Sundays, you will find her at The Bridge Fellowship in Sugar Land with the rest of her family. Zoya loves the Lord above all things. Her favorite scripture is John 14:18, “I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.”

Chase Ligon Classification: Junior Calvary Episcopal Preparatory Chase Ligon is originally from New Orleans, Lousiana. He now lives in New Territory with his parents and 6 siblings. He is well known as the active Student Council Vice President and Vice President of the choir. Chase is also known as an outstanding student, gifted speaker and known for his willingness to help. One of his most recent accomplishments is that Chase took 6th place in Persuasive Speech at State TAPPS. He is also active in the Fort Bend Youth In Philanthropy program, numerous service/volunteer events through Calvary, and active in his church, Outside of the school he is a gifted athlete; he enjoys football, track, and field. Chase has received many college invitations, but he already knows what he wants to do upon graduation from Calvary. He wishes to attend LSU, Baylor, or UT as a pre-med/kinesiology major.

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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The Buzz About Fort Bend Enjoy the Buzz About Fort Bend! Our October/November 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.

On Saturday, August 16, Autism Speaks held the 2014 Houston Walk Now Kickoff.

Crowds converged at Reliant Arena to walk for a good cause!

For the first time in Calvary Episcopal Preparatory history an International Junior Thespian Society has been established with 14 honorary inductees. (L-R): Alex Dewey, Delaney Harris, Reese McBride, Sydney Smith, Joey Cook, Ms. Paula Smith, Isabel Beale, Micah Servantes, Mandy Richardson, Kendall Sullivan. Ryan Mullen, Ethan Buechner, Max Evans, Mia Rios. (Katie McClellan not pictured).

Hope for Three “Strikes Out Autism” at their April event at Constellation Field. President Darla Farmer thanks the volunteers and families who make a tremendous value and impact in the community.

Almost 3,000 women attended the 13th annual Metamorphosis Women’s Conference in Houston, one of the largest and most successful mega women’s conference in the U.S.

Congratulations to Houston Hospice nurse Diane Hayner RN, who was awarded the prestigious Good Samaritan Foundation’s Bronze Excellence in Nursing Award September 3, 2014 at a luncheon ceremony at Houston’s Royal Sonesta Hotel.

Sugar Land Superstar winner Jasmine Rogers joins Zach Person and Reagan Johnson, who placed 2nd and 3rd. Congratulations to all contestants who performed at the Grand Finale in August.

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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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