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AUGUST 2010
Must Read!
FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE Page 51
Dr. Andrea Hayes-Jordan
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features 28 Miss Texas 2009 Set to Judge Queen’s Contestant The former champion of Texas pageantry will be bringing her talents to the judges table at the Fort Bend County Fair Style Show and Luncheon.
32 Active, healthy and happy: The Primrose effect Tina and Matt Koenig make a difference in the lives of children every day and love every minute of it.
50 The JEWELS of Fort Bend Meet five exceptional women who make a difference every day with their positive community influence.
51 Fort Bend’s Finest in Medicine Profiles of some of Fort Bend’s finest medical professionals all in one convenient section!
78 Back-to-School It’s that time of year again! Here are some tips for you on how to help your child get ready for another awesome school year!
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Losing your vision is something you cannot afford to do.
Come in by the end of August for a chance to win a back to school laptop. Call for details. Mention this ad and receive 2 entries for the laptop give-a-way with your eye exam.
COVER STORY 14 Dr. Andrea Hayes-Jordan The nation’s first African-American female pediatric surgical oncologist brings hope, encouragement, and a doctor’s love to her patients battling cancer.
departments 18 Focus on Health 20 High School Hot Shot 22 Focus on Finance 23 Fort Bend Headliners 24 Caring for the Community 26 Focus on People 34 Focus Film Review 38 Seen on the Scene 40 Fort Bend New Neighbor 42 Focus Cares 44 Focus Scrapbook
A nd r ea H a ye Pediat s-Jordan, M.D. ric Surg er y
48 Community Calendar 84 Fort Bend Kids Chalkboard 86 Business Buzz 88 Focus Photo Winner 89 Medical Focus 93 Focus on Flavor Dining Guide 96 Living the Sweet Life Photo by MD Anderson Cancer Center fort bend
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P
ublisher’s Preview www.fortbendfocus.com
August 2010 Vol. 6 No. 10
Hello Fort Bend Friends, What a Summer!! As usual, it has flown by yet again. Now is the time when parents start to get their kids ready for school and into a routine. Focus has dedicated a special advertising section to help you do just that. We have pulled together some of the best private schools and daycares in Fort Bend County starting on page 78. A must read this month is our “Fort Bend’s Finest in Medicine” special section on page 51. I believe Fort Bend County will soon be known as the Medical Hub outside the city of Houston. We have some of the best qualified doctors and medical services right here and have listed those for your convenience. One of our residents, who lives in Sienna Plantation, is Dr. Andrea Hayes-Jordan. She is a pediatric surgical oncologist making great strides in the lives of her young patients. Our cover story on her begins on page 14. Don’t miss next month’s issue, where we honor the JEWELS of Fort Bend on our cover.
4655 Techniplex Dr. Suite 400 Stafford, TX 77477 To advertise call
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Call now to reserve your tickets to the annual style show and luncheon at Safari Texas, 281690-4242. Keep emailing us your ideas for cover and feature stories, we love to hear from our readers! Stay Focused!
Lisa Fredrickson
Email: Lisa@Fortbendfocus.com
READERS FEEDBACK Focus on Women Magazine is a proud sponsor for this year’s KOMEN RACE FOR THE CURE
Miss Sugar Land reviews her Fort Bend Focus magazine... Callie Thompson with her parents seeing the Fort Bend Focus cover story for the first time. Photo by Louis Maines.
Thank you to our two Editorial Interns... We have been fortunate this summer to acquire two brilliant college students who committed their time as our Editorial Interns, Lauren Dante and Matt Howard. Lauren is currently in her graduating year at the University of Missouri earning a Bachelor of Journalism in Strategic Communication. Matt will be in his Sophomore year at Stony Brook University, New York, earning Bachelor degrees in Journalism and Economics. Thank you both, and we hope you have learned and experienced the world of publishing from your Focus Magazines Family. Good luck to a successful career ahead!
Direct mailed to subscribers and high value homes in Sugar Land, Richmond, Katy, Missouri City and Fulshear and picked up at demand distribution locations throughout Fort Bend. Single copy $2.95 PUBLISHERS Michael Fredrickson Lisa Fredrickson SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jessica Kij ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Dena Perry April Lambert OFFICE MANAGER Norma Loredo CONTRIBUTORS Bev Carter Will Hardee Don Maines Alisa Murray Nick Nicholson Dr. Peter Osborne Melinda Wood ART DIRECTOR Grace Belleza ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR Joey Belleza GRAPHIC ARTIST Elizabeth Pace EDITORIAL INTERNS Lauren Dante Matt Howard WEB DESIGNER Joey Belleza (JOBpagegraphics.com)
ON THE COVER
Dr. Andrea Hayes-Jordan COVER PHOTO:
THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS MD ANDERSON CANCER CENTER c 2010
Lisa Fredrickson with Lauren Dante and Matt Howard. fort bend
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One year subscription: $25
Who are the Jewels of Fort Bend?
Joyous, Extraordinary Women Enriching Lives
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Safari Texas Ranch - Official Venue Salon Eben & Day Spa - Official Salon
Pamela Printing - Official Printer Tickets & Sponsorship Opportunities �.com 281-690-4242 or www.FortBendFocus.com www.fortbend • August 2010 11
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Texas Direct Auto makes major commitment to higher education
T
exas Direct Auto, located in Stafford, Texas, is proud to announce a major commitment to higher education among students of Fort Bend County. The “Scholarship Stars” program, in sponsorship with the Fort Bend/Katy Business Journal and Fort Bend Focus Magazine, will provide a series of $1,000 scholarships to local students. This is the first program of its type in Fort Bend County, a major community move for Texas Direct Auto and a benefit to local students! Applications will be accepted beginning August 1st and winners will be announced each month in each magazine. Complete details and the application can be found online at www.fortbendstar.com/scholarshipstar.doc. As for Texas Direct Auto, not many people would believe that a business can generate over a half-billion dollars in sales from a single location – but Texas Direct Auto does it from right here in Stafford! One lot with over a thousand used vehicles ranging in price from $5,000 to $150,000. It’s easy to see why Texas Direct Auto is the world’s largest eBay Motors dealer! In less than eight years this locally owned company has grown from an Internet based to a state-of-the-art mega-store located at 12053 Hwy 59 at Nations Blvd. Customers have the option of buying on-line or by visiting the store where numerous associates can help
find just the car you’ve been looking for! Texas Direct Auto has also purchased more cars from individuals than any other independent dealership in the nation. You’ve probably seen or heard their advertisements in the local area. Selection is no challenge at Texas Direct Auto as they have access to just about every make and model available nationwide! They stock more Toyotas than a Toyota store, more Chevys than a Chevy store, etc. No matter if you’re looking for a sports car, a hybrid, an SUV or truck, Texas Direct Auto has them all. They buy the best from across the country. Top quality vehicles purchased from around the nation are made available through the Internet. Volume pricing added to a massive selection offers the customer the best deals possible! With financing available online and on the premises, shopping for your new car has never been easier. Visit us online at www.texasdirectauto. com or call us at 281499-8200. Texas Direct Auto – the car dealer of the future!
SELL US YOUR CAR With over $500+ Million in annual sales, Texas Direct Auto is the Largest Independent dealership in the nation and is the largest eBay Motor’s dealership in the world! Visit us online or come to Stafford just southwest of Houston to see our huge lot and massive inventory that are sure to have exactly what you are looking for in your next car. 12053 SW Freeway, Stafford Texas 77477 • 281-499-8200
COVER STORY
Dr.
Andrea Hayes-Jordan, the nation’s first female African-American pediatric surgical oncologist, remembers writing an essay in the sixth grade stating that she wanted to be “a bilingual baby doctor.” But how could she have known that she would leave California for Texas and find Fort Bend County and Houston to be a perfect place to perform at “the highestlevel possible?” Hayes-Jordan’s latest accomplishment as a pediatric surgical oncologist is publishing a study that shows that an adult surgery adapted for use in young patients increased the survival of children with rare tumors in the abdomen, in the May 20 issue of the Journal of Pediatric Surgery. “This area gives people a place to be excellent at what they do as well as grow in their lives outside of their work,” she says. “I love Sienna Plantation!” she adds, explaining that she and husband Darin Jordan, a former professional football player, “didn’t know anything about Houston when we came here six years ago” for Hayes-Jordan to start working at The University of Texas MD Anderson Children’s Cancer Hospital. “People suggested that we find a place near the Medical Center, but my husband wanted to live in a suburb, where we could have a home with a large backyard our kids could play in and space where they could ride bicycles safely for a few miles,” she explains. “At that time, there was no Fort Bend Tollway, no HEB, no CVS, but there was a lot of promise of things to come.” The doctor’s husband is a “home dad,” she says, and they are proud parents of two children, Jenelle, age 15, and Jonah, age 14. Attending Scanlon Oaks Elementary prior to Baines Middle School, the children “rode their bikes to school, just as their father had envisioned they would.” “We really enjoy being in such a community neighborhood where everybody looks out for each other and each others’ kids,” says Hayes-Jordan. In 2006, she became the first and only
| By Don Maines Photos from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
New Hope for Kids with Cancer
“The kids are my inspiration. Each time I interact with them, I’m renewed with energy to continue working towards a cure.” ~ Dr. Andrea Hayes-Jordan surgeon in North America to successfully perform on a young cancer patient a highrisk adult surgery called hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) or “heated chemotherapy.” Hayes-Jordan extracted as many tumors as possible that had spread to the child’s abdomen before running heated chemotherapy agents fort bend
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through the abdominal area to kill any remaining tumor cells. Since that first surgery, she has continued to perform several HIPEC surgeries each year, giving patients more months and years to live. Patients who received the HIPEC surgical procedure had an overall 3-year survival rate of 71 percent, whereas among
patients who received only standard treatment, just 26 percent survived three years, the study shows. Born on Dec. 30, 1965, Hayes-Jordan grew up in a suburb of Los Angeles, where both of her parents were educators. “I was the oldest of three children, and they put in our heads that education is really critical in becoming what you want to be in life.” When it came time to go to college, she says, “I knew I didn’t want to stay in California. I had never seen seasons change. I had never seen snow fall or leaves fall.” She and her family visited a number of Ivy League universities on the East coast before Hayes-Jordan chose to enroll at Dartmouth College in rural Hanover, N.J., where she earned a bachelor of arts degree in religion while also taking premed courses. “That was an awesome and exciting time,” she says, explaining that although she had always attended the United Methodist Church, “I wanted to challenge my religion and the choice to become a Christian.” By studying other religions and gaining an understanding of them, she says, “I grew in learning and it actually strengthened my faith in Jesus Christ.” She also built upon the Spanish she learned in high
Dr. Andrea Hayes-Jordan wearing her smile of hope.
Dr. Andrea Hayes-Jordan with children, Jonah and Jenelle, and husband Darin Jordan.
school by studying one summer in Granada, Spain, taking classes in Spanish literature, history and architecture. Following graduation, Hayes-Jordan remained in Hanover to study at Dartmouth Medical School and pursue her long-held goal of becoming a medical doctor. Next, she completed an additional two years of training to become one of only a handful of pediatric surgical oncologists in North America. She was planning her wedding at the same time that she was matched with the University of California Davis-East Bay in Oakland, Calif., as the place where she would complete her general surgery residency. “My husband was playing in the NFL (as an inside linebacker),” she says, and he had to weigh the pros and cons of accepting a trade to what was then the Los Angeles Raiders, the New York Jets or the San Francisco 49ers. Although the Raiders offered more money, his wife says, Jordan chose to move with her to northern California and suit up with the 49ers. “It turned out great that he chose San Francisco because he played in the Super Bowl that the 49ers won in 1995,” says Hayes-Jordan. Her husband retired from football after the 49-26 rout over the San www.fortbend
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Diego Chargers in Super Bowl XXIX in Miami. “Now, he looks after the kids,” she says, and that helps enable her to fulfill what she considers her “mission” as a pediatric surgical oncologist. In her quest to fulfill the dream of becoming “a bilingual baby doctor,” Hayes-Jordan says she knows “enough Spanish” to communicate with patients and parents who speak very little English. “I know with absolute certainty that God put me on Earth to prolong the lives of children with cancer,” she says. “I pray every day, and I pray that I will be that vessel every day to help the children.” “I don’t internalize a lot, because I know that God is in charge and that I am not in charge. If the outcome is great, or if it isn’t, I know that it is primarily in God’s hands, and that is one of the things that keeps me going.” “What I do is very rewarding and it’s very emotional at times,” she explains. “I do not detach myself. I’m very involved with my patients. Sometimes I cry with the parents.” It was during Hayes-Jordan’s fellowship in melanoma and sarcoma at M. D. Anderson that she learned that many Continued on page 16
Continued from page 15 regimens for adults with cancer weren’t being translated for use in pediatric patients. Specifically, young cancer patients with multiple tumors in their abdomen were basically destined to die, she explains. “In the past, these patients were told there was nothing else to be done, but now we can add months and often years to the lives of these young patients using this surgery.” The extra time allows patients to experience milestones such as another birthday ,a graduation or even parenthood that they might not have had otherwise. When Hayes-Jordan learned that HIPEC had not been tried on children, she asked, “Why can’t we try this? Maybe it will work.” Thus began a process of registering with the Federal Drug Administration and the National Cancer Institute for a clinical trial to determine first whether the procedure could be performed safely on children, then to discover how effective it would be. “This study demonstrates that the surgical technique is safe and advantageous for patients who have multiple tumors in their abdomen,” says Hayes-Jordan, now an assistant professor in surgical oncology and pediatrics at Children’s Cancer Hospital. Previous studies had shown the synergy created when chemotherapy is heated. In a HIPEC procedure on a child, HayesJordan will spend 10 to 12 hours removing, or debulking, the hundreds of tumors in the patient’s abdominal cavity. Then she will run chemotherapy, heated at 40 to 41 Celsius (104 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit), throughout the cavity while the
Dr. Hayes-Jordan continues to work towards a cure for cancer. patient lies on a cooling blanket to keep the body’s temperature at a safe level. The chemotherapy helps to kill any microscopic cells that are left behind after the debulking surgery. Within one to two months, patients are often fully recovered from surgery and back to their regular activities. Patients ranging in age from 5 to 43 years were included in the study, but those receiving HIPEC ranged from 5 to 25 years old. Results indicated that younger
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center The specialized expertise and services of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center are now available to patients and their families in Sugar Land and Fort Bend County. Conveniently located on the campus of St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital, the MD Anderson Regional Care Center in Sugar Land provides medical oncology and hematology, radiation oncology, outpatient chemotherapy, nutrition counseling and laboratory and pharmacy services to adult patients. MD Anderson also has a radiation treatment center in Richmond that is staffed by two radiation oncologists and a team of radiation therapists, dosimetrists, nurses and staff. In addition, MD Anderson has regional care centers offering medical oncology and radiation oncology in Katy, Nassau Bay and The Woodlands and a radiation treatment center in Bellaire.
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patients had better outcomes from HIPEC than patients older than 18 years. Diseasefree survival was also better for those who received HIPEC in addition to debulking surgery. At one year, disease-free survival was 14 percent for those who only received debulking surgery as compared to 53 percent who received HIPEC. “We really are encouraged that this is going to help many children with abdominal tumors,” said Hayes-Jordan. “We’re sharing this technology with other centers so that they will also be able to help these children. In the years to follow, we hope to try different chemotherapies with the procedure to better the outcomes and decrease any toxicities.” She also plans to extend the study to include cancers that metastasize to the abdominal area. With surgeries to perform, new therapies to develop and cancer patients to care for, Hayes-Jordan is always on the go. “The kids are my inspiration. Each time I interact with them, I’m renewed with energy to continue working towards a cure,” she says. FBF
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on
Health
By Dr. Peter Osborne
Behavioral Disorders in Children – Educate Yourself for the School Year
A
ttention deficit (hyperactivity) disorder (ADD/ADHD), Autism and other neurological behavioral disorders are on the rise. Case in point: In 1950, only a few thousand children were prescribed stimulant medications to treat ADD/ADHD. Today, over 4 million children are taking them. Some research claims that ADD/ADHD affects between 6-20% of children ages 6-12.1 In the United States, an 805% cumulative growth rate increase was recorded for autism between 1992 and 2003.2 The bottom line: The prevalence of behavioral neurological disorders among children is growing at a faster pace than population growth. This means that environment must be playing a major contributory role.3 Toxic Foods: What has changed in the last fifty years to cause the number of treated cases of ADD/ADHD to increase over 2000 times? One answer stands out dramatically - DIET. There have been more changes to the average American diet in the last fifty years than in the last 10,000. Some examples include food processing technologies, chemical additives and preservatives, artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners, hydrogenated fats, and more. All of the above have been shown to negatively affect the chemistry of the brain. Consumption of food colorings in the US alone totals more than 100 million pounds per year. In the past 30 years, soda consumption in children has increased by nearly 300%. Depending on age, the consumption of fast food comprises 25-40% of meals for children. There are an infinite
number of parties, social engagements, school functions and fundraisers, etc. that promote the sale and consumption of foods which have little to no nutritional value. Many parents ignorantly claim that kids are “young enough to burn it off.” So what does all of this have to do with neurological and behavioral disorders? A number of medical research studies have directly linked highly processed foods and food additives to ADD/ADHD and the autistic spectrum disorders. Lower intelligence, lower grades, increased discipline problems, and chemical imbalances in the brain have all been linked to poor diet choices.4,5,6,7 You are what you eat. Toxic Metals: Aluminum, Mercury, Lead, Nickel, Cadmium, Beryllium, and Arsenic are all toxic metals. They can be found in cookware, beverage cans, antiperspirants, processed foods, vaccines and other medications, air pollution, plastics, pesticides, table salt, cigarette smoke, tap water, dental amalgams, fabric softener and much more. At high enough concentrations, these metals can cause a host of different symptoms and diseases. Many of them are known to create inflammation in the brain and spinal cord leading to multiple neurological side effects. Recently, a lot of press has focused in on the link between vaccinations and autistic spectrum disorders. Since 1983, the number of vaccines recommended for our children by the Center for Disease Control has more than tripled. This time frame coincides with the 800% increase in autism diagnoses. Evidence points to thime-
risol (a mercury containing preservative) used in MMR vaccines and flu shots. An independent evaluation of a large study as part of the Centers for Disease Control Vaccine Safety Datalink concluded that children exposed to 3 thimerisol containing vaccines were 27 times more likely to develop autism than children, who were not exposed. Many experts deny the relationship between mercury and autism, however, there is a large body of scientific medical evidence that supports the link.8,9,10 It is beyond the scope and not the purpose of this article to discuss all of the controversial vaccine issues, but you should be aware that mercury exposure poses a very serious health threat and mercury is still being used in flu vaccinations. Consider this foundational thought. Your health is dramatically influenced by your environment. A large part of your environment consists of what you put into your body (i.e. food, medication, vaccines, pollution, etc). Our children depend on us as parents to teach them through dialogue but more importantly through our own actions about the proper care of the human body. If we fail as parents to preserve the future health of our children, then our children will follow and fail in our footsteps. H References: 1. Connors, Keith, M.D. from Duke Med News http://www.dukemednews.org/ news/controversy.php?id=1732 2. http://www.fightingautism.org/idea/reports/US-Autism-StatisticsPrevalence-Incidence-Rates.pdf 3. Craig J. Newschaffer, Matthew D. Falb and James G. Gurney. Pediatrics 2005;115;277-282 4. Schoenthaler S., et al. Journal of Applied Nutrition. 1991;43(1). 5. Zeisel S.H. Advances in Pediatrics. 1986;33:23-47 6. Uhlig T., et al. European Journal of Pediatrics. 1997;156(7):557-61. 7. Kidd P.M. Alternative Medicine Review. 2000;5(5):402-28. 8. Geier DA, Geier MR. Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Part A, 70: 837–851, 2007 9. Bradstreet J, et al. J Am Phys Surg. 2003;8(3):76-79. 10. Kern J, Jones AM. Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Part B, 9:485–499, 2006
DID YOU KNOW?
You have one of the country’s most advanced alternative medicine clinics right here in Sugar Land n Dr. Osborne
• Is a Diplomate and the Executive Secretary of the American Clinical Board of Nutrition • Is the only Board Certified Nutritionist in Sugar Land • Is a member of the ACA Council on Nutrition • Has held teaching appointments at Texas Women’s University and HCC’s nursing program • Lectures nationally to other physicians on the topic: Drug Induced Nutritional Deficiencies
n Town Center Wellness:
Dr. Peter Osborne
• Offers genetic testing to match your lifestyle and diet to your genes • Offers complete laboratory nutritional analysis to identify vitamin and mineral deficiencies • Offers traditional and specialty lab services to assist in patient diagnosis • Offers state of the art Spinal Decompression therapy to prevent back surgery • Offers genetic and laboratory testing to identify gluten sensitivity • Offers chiropractic care
4724 Sweetwater Blvd. Suite 102, Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-240-2229 • www.TownCenterWellness.com Advertorial
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By Melinda Wood
High School HOT SHOT
Stepping up to the Plate
N
icole Gremillion, a 2010 graduate of Elkins High School, has a bright future to look forward to as she starts her freshman year in college this fall. This standout softball player will leave her Fort Bend home to play collegiate softball at Northern Illinois University on a full scholarship. Excited about her upcoming opportunity to play Division 1 softball, Nicole credits her coaches for helping her make it to this point in her life. “My coaches, Tommy Howe and Rabitt Blake are my inspiration,” Nicole said. “They have taught me everything I know about softball and about life as well. They helped me get to college on a full scholarship.” Nicole has played softball for 11 years and has loved every minute of it. For the past four years, Nicole has been the starting pitcher for the Elkins Knights. She also plays outfield and pitches for her summer team called Magic Gold. Nicole plays for the love of the game and enjoys the excitement that comes with stepping up to the plate. “My favorite part [of the game] is the intensity.” Nicole said. “When you are playing top level teams and everyone is so into the game and focused, the intensity is so much higher and makes the game so much more exciting.” Thinking back to all of the games she has competed in, it’s hard for her to pinpoint her favorite play that she has made.
Nicole Nicole (second from left) with her Elkins teammates.
“I can’t really remember one specific time, but there have been many plays where I have dove for game-breaking balls,” she shared. In addition to all of the games and exciting plays, Nicole also will always remember her teammates and the memories they made together. “The most exciting thing [about playing softball] is traveling during the summer with my travel team,” Nicole shares. “We go to places like California, Florida, New York, Colorado, Chicago and more.” She continues on to say, “My favorite memory with my softball team is going white water rafting every year in Colorado with my summer team.” With so many softball commitments, Nicole knows the importance of balancing her responsibilities. “I have a busy softball and school schedule that I go by and I work around
Nicole with her parents, Tracy and Paul Gremillion.
it to fit in time with my friends and family,” Nicole said. In her spare time, Nicole says she likes to hang out with her friends, swim, shop, read and be active. Nicole has a jam-packed summer with softball tournaments in California, Colorado and Chicago. She will also make time for some fun at Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels, and, of course getting ready for college. H
“I have a busy softball and school schedule that I go by and I work around it to fit in time with my friends and family,” Nicole said fort bend
magazine • August 2010
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it’s time
to put your best foot forward.
Dr. Ray Valdez can resolve your chronic foot or ankle issues. Take that important first step today and end your pain this year. Located in Fort Bend County, Dr. Ray Valdez is one of the leading Orthopedic Surgeons in Texas and can help you resolve your foot and ankle pain, as well as many other orthopedic issues. At the forefront of treatment options, research and education, Dr. Valdez utilizes his extensive fellowship training in foot and ankle surgery, specialized experience and use of state-of-the-art technology to give patients quicker recovery times. So you can get back to being pain free faster than ever before. From total ankle replacement and difficult fractures to highimpact sports injuries, Dr. Valdez provides leading orthopedics across Fort Bend and beyond. Let Dr. Valdez help you walk away pain free.
Call 281-494-MOST (6678) for a personal appointment today.
L E A D I N G M E D I C I N E SM 1201 Brooks Street Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-494-MOST MethodistOST.com
on
Finance
Provided by RBC Wealth Management and H. H. “Will” Hardee, AWM – Financial Consultant
Health-Care Reform: High-Income Individuals Face New Medicare-Related Taxes in 2013
T
he recently enacted health-care reform legislation includes new Medicare-related taxes. These new taxes take effect in 2013, and target highincome individuals and families. While additional details and clarifications will become available between now and 2013, here’s what you need to know. Beginning in 2013, the new health reform legislation increases the hospital insurance (HI) tax on high-wage individuals by 0.9% (to 2.35%). Who’s subject to the additional tax? If you’re married and file a joint federal income tax return, the additional HI tax will apply to the extent that the combined wages of you and your spouse exceed $250,000. If you’re married but file a separate return, the additional tax will apply to wages that exceed $125,000. For everyone else, the threshold is $200,000 of wages. So, in 2013, a single individual with wages of $230,000 will owe HI tax at a rate of 1.45% on the first $200,000 of wages, and HI tax at a rate of 2.35% on the remaining $30,000 of wages for the year. Employers will be responsible for collecting and remitting the additional tax on wages that exceed $200,000. (Employers will not factor in the wages of a married employee’s spouse.) You’ll be responsible for the additional tax if the amount withheld from your wages is insufficient. The employer portion of the
HI tax remains unchanged (at 1.45%). If you’re self-employed, the additional 0.9% tax applies to self-employment income that exceeds the dollar amounts above (reduced, though, by any wages subject to FICA tax). If you’re self-employed, you won’t be able to deduct any portion of the additional tax. New Medicare contribution tax on unearned income Beginning in 2013, a new 3.8% Medicare contribution tax will be imposed on the unearned income of high-income individuals (the new tax is also imposed on estates and trusts, although slightly different rules apply). The tax is equal to 3.8% of the lesser of: • Your net investment income, generally, net income from interest, dividends, annuities, royalties and rents, and capital gains, as well as income from a business that is considered a passive activity or a business that trades financial instruments or commodities, or • Your modified adjusted gross income (basically, your adjusted gross income increased by any foreign earned income exclusion) that exceeds $200,000 ($250,000 if married filing a joint federal income tax return, $125,000 if married filing a separate return). So, effectively, you’re only subject to the additional 3.8% tax if your adjusted gross income exceeds the dollar thresh-
olds listed above. It’s worth noting that interest on tax-exempt bonds, veterans’ benefits and excluded gain from the sale of a principal residence that are excluded from gross income are not considered net investment income for purposes of the additional tax. Qualified retirement plan and IRA distributions are also not considered investment income. Together, these two new Medicare-related taxes are expected to provide a major source of revenue to finance other parts of health-care reform. The Joint Committee on Taxation projects that the combined revenue attributable to these two new taxes will exceed $210 billion over the tenyear period ending in 2019 (Source: Joint Committee on Taxation, Publication JCX17-10, March 20, 2010). For additional information about the Hardee Investment Group and the products and services we offer, please visit our website at www.HardeeInvestmentGroup.com. You may also listen live every Thursday from 11 – 12pm on “The Price of Business” 650 am Radio for Will’s most current commentary. This article is provided by H. H. “Will” Hardee, AWM a financial consultant at RBC Wealth Management’s Houston Center and was prepared by or in cooperation with RBC Wealth Management. The information included in this article is not intended to be used as the primary basis for making investment decisions nor should it be construed as a recommendation to buy or sell any specific security. RBC Wealth Management does not endorse this organization or publication. Consult your investment professional for additional information and guidance. RBC Wealth Management does not provide tax or legal advice. RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets Corporation, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC. H
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fort bend
magazine • August 2010
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7/17/09 7:51:29 AM
FORT BEND
HEADLINERS Send your “Fort Bend Headliners” via e-mail to Lisa@FortBendFocus.com. Be sure to send only “high resolution” digital pictures as an “attached” jpg. Make sure your camera is set to “fine” or “high” in the setup screen. Digital pictures that have not been previously published are preferred. Please do not embed jpg in any page or layout program. Articles are subject for editing and space availability.
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Salon Gity’s annual fashion show was a success Salon Gity, a Paul Mitchell Focus Salon in Sugar Land, presented a check for $4000.00 to the Fort Bend County Women’s Center, who reaches out to the entire community to bring awareness of the issues surrounding domestic violence and sexual assault. Salon Gity hosted their 5th annual fashion show “Make Me a Model” that included local celebrities such as John Healey, Fort Bend County District Attorney, Judy Froehlich VP for Paul Mitchell Systems for South Texas and Fox 26 Anchors Sibila Vargas, Kristi Powers, Melissa Wilson, and Natalie Bomke. It was an event full of food and entertainment. Cash prizes in the amount of $250-$500 were awarded to 3 of the 9 makeover models that strutted their stuff on the runway to show off their new look!
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Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital
Caring for the Community Partnership benefits over 3,000 young athletes
A
unique partnership between Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital and the Fort Bend Youth Football League (FBYFL) provides various sports medicine services to benefit the league’s more than 3,000 young athletes and designates Memorial Hermann Sugar Land as the league’s preferred healthcare provider. FBYFL is designed for children ages 5 to 12 and features five levels each of football and cheerleading. The sponsorship agreement provides these youths and their coaches with access to community education, a “fast track for injury” program through the Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Emergency Center, and preferred scheduling with hospital-affiliated specialists. Additionally, FBYFL will receive on-site athletic trainer coverage and access to Memorial Hermann Sugar Land’s Saturday Sports Injury Clinic. “Our partnership with Fort Bend Youth Football League allows us to be intimately involved with many of the communities that support our hospital,” said Jim Brown, chief executive officer. “We hope that every child will be able to enjoy their football or cheerleading experience without injury; however, should injury or illness occur, we appreciate the trust the league has placed in our facility.” Brown’s enthusiasm is shared by Reuben Muhammed, executive director of FBYFL. “Memorial Hermann is the leader in the medical field within the metropolitan Houston area,” he said. “Many of its employees and patients have children or grandchildren who have or will someday participate in the league. It was unanimous among our 18 franchises that Memorial Hermann Sugar Land is the hospital that we’d like to be our official sponsor and preferred medical care supplier.” Advertorial
Celebrating the new partnership between Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital and Fort Bend Youth Football League (FBYFL) are FBYFL Executive Director Reuben Muhammed, FBYFL Director of Cheer Programs Cynthia Scott, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Sports Medicine Coordinator Steven Ramirez, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Chief Executive Officer Jim Brown, and Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Director of Business Development Jennifer Zimmerman.
Muhammed explained that the children involved in FBYFL will not be the only winners. “Coaches will gain hands-on knowledge and skills from professionals in various medical fields,” he said. “The ability to learn CPR, first aid skills, heat and fatigue indicators and other health and safety tips is invaluable.” Steven Ramirez, sports medicine coordinator at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land, works with sports and fitness leagues, clubs, teams and businesses to develop customized sports medicine programs just like this one for FBYFL. Other services offered through the Sports Medicine department include athletic physicals. fort bend
magazine • August 2010
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These physicals, which are more comprehensive than most, include an orthopedist-conducted musculoskeletal screening that tests arm and leg strength, knee tracking and more. They also include heart screenings. If a heart abnormality is detected, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land schedules a next-day visit for the athlete with a hospital-affiliated cardiologist. This provides the athlete with access to advanced screening equipment that can give a more complete cardiovascular report. To learn more about the sports medicine programs offered by Memorial Hermann Sugar Land, please call 281.725.5333. H
Headliners continued from page 23
Bill Austin’s Dance & Gymnastics Studio announced the production of Nutcracker The Musical and its new director We invite you to join us in the Fall at Bill Austin’s Dance & Gymnastics Studio for an exciting year in dance, gymnastics, and the performing arts all under one roof. Monroe Moore Under the new direction of Award winning musical theatre director and choreographer Monroe Moore, 2010-2011 brings a new and exciting time to the Academy of Dance; full of new classes, with an enhanced class schedule, additional programs, new professional instructors, performing opportunities including our annual production of Nutcracker The Musical and our expanded Spring Recital in addition to the performance collaboration with Broadway Bound Youth Musical Theatre Company. Open House will be held Saturday August 21 from 11:00am - 1:00pm. Come meet the faculty, tour the remodeled studio, and find out about the exciting new year! All guests will have the opportunity to register for classes and get information on all the exciting things happening around the studio. Open call auditions will be held for our first annual production of Nutcracker The Musical. Seeking 50 – 75 experienced and inexperienced ACTORS, SINGERS, DANCERS, & TUMBLERS ages 5 through 18 for the first annual collaborative production of Nutcracker The Musical. Auditions will be held Sept 3, 4, & 5. Nutcracker will play for three performances at HBU’S beautiful 1700 seat Dunham Theatre. For more information, questions, to register, and/or any other concerns please call us at 281-565-5327, visit us online at www.billaustinsgymnastics. com or email our studio director at bbymtdirector@aol.com.
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Headliners continued on page 29 www.fortbend
.com • August 2010
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on
People
By Bev Carter
“Three’s Company” love their new home in Sugar Land and had a party to prove it
Jan Smith, Dave Anderson, and Dana Ford are three friends who quit their jobs and moved here from Fort Worth. Dave’s sister Donna came from Fort Worth to cater the party.
H Jan Smith and her new piano, a gift from her father. The party celebrated the piano and birthdays.
Joel Daniel Love, William McQueen, and Gerald Massoud jazz it up with the new piano.
ow many people have friends they can call up and say, “Hey, let’s quit our jobs, move to Houston, and live in a really neat neighborhood in Sugar Land!” Evidently, Dave Anderson, Jan Smith, and Dana Ford were just that bold and about a year ago left Fort Worth to resettle in Fort Bend. As an RN, Jan went to work immediately and Dave and Dana got jobs soon after with their varied former experiences. The house they found in the Edgewater communities was fantastic, fronting on a cul-de-sac with really nice neighbors, and its back on a small picturesque lake. After Jan’s father gifted her with a baby grand piano, which was moved from Tulsa, what better excuse than to throw a party and welcome it to their home? A jazz group played for the evening with various friends sitting in during the festivities. The party was also held to celebrate Dave’s birthday, an occasion which brought Dave’s sister Donna, a caterer, to town to cook for the entire party. The menu included fondue and petite fours in addition to the typical party fare. It was an eclectic guest list, showing that people in Sugar Land can have parties that include their older neighbors, young people, and the Houston art scene. Guests were asked to bring donations of money or food for animal groups. The trio have now lived in Sugar Land for over a year and recently held a celebration dinner at Vargo’s to commemorate their successful relocation. H The roommates had a first anniversary dinner to celebrate their move to Sugar Land a year ago. Dave Anderson had lived in Houston before. Dana Ford, Jan Smith, and Dave Anderson at Vargo’s.
Kelly Williams, Sue and Dick Williams with friend. Sue and I made a West Texas connection.
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Dave Anderson and Bev Carter. I received a fan letter from Dave, inviting me to the party and claiming there were others beside Republicans living in Sugar Land.
Greg and Fran Stewart and friend.
Not only was the guest list eclectic, but the dress was also as evidenced by Jimmy Warner and his Polo boots.
Democrats pledge “Blue Fort Bend in 2010”
I Commissioner Grady Prestage with his parents Dr. James and Jewel Prestage.
The Democrats borrowed a page from the Republicans by having a VIP room and offering handshakes from Bill White for big donors.
City Councilman Wen Guerra, City of Stafford, and daughter Melissa Guerra. J.P. Precinct 2 Joel Clouser, Commissioner Grady Prestage, Bill White Democratic Candidate for Governor, Steve Brown, Democratic Party Chair.
Democratic gubernatorial candidate Bill White and Skip Belt. 240 Dist. Court Candidate Fredricka Allen and Commissioner Grady Prestage.
Candidate for County Treasurer, K.P. George and wife, with Democratic gubernatorial candidate Bill White.
Commissioner Grady Prestage, Congressman Al Green.
Cynthia Bennett of Sienna Democrats Club , Katie Herrington, Janell Holliday.
Democrat State Representative Ron Reynolds and new County Chairman Steve Brown. Me and Michelle.
www.fortbend
.com • August 2010
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By Bev Carter
t was Bill White, Bill White, Bill White everywhere as the Fort Bend Democrats realized their party may have a chance in the governor’s race for the first time in a long while. It’s been even more years since the Fort Bend Democrats really made any county-wide efforts to raise money. Several Democratic clubs have been trying to keep the party alive by hosting smaller fund-raisers but a successful large fund-raiser seemed to be something various county chairs were either not interested in or not up to getting together. However, new county chair Steve Brown made it one the first things on his agenda and the event on June 18, billed as “Blue Fort Bend in 2010” was a huge success. It was held at the Safari in the large ballroom. Most all Democratic elected officials in Fort Bend and in Houston were there, with gubernatorial candidate and former Mayor Bill White as the headliner. The event honored Fort Bend’s longest serving Democratic incumbent, Precinct 2 County Commissioner Grady Prestage. The slate of candidates challenging the Republican incumbents in November were there including: Veronica Torres for District Clerk; Korinthia Miller for County Clerk; Fredericka Allen for 240th District Court Judge; Albert Hollan for 268th District Judge; Harrison Gregg Jr. for County Court-at-Law No. 2 Judge; Milton Flick for Court-at-Law No. 1 Judge; R.J. Blue for Justice of the Peace in Precinct 1, Place 2; Rodrigo Carreon for County Judge; and K.P. George for County Treasurer. Fort Bend is a very diverse county but the local elected officials have not reflected that diversity. County Chair Steve Brown says that is the next thing on his agenda. The Democrats opened a headquarters this year. The grand opening was Sunday, July 25. It is located right before the Brazos River Bridge and next door to the Baytown Seafood. H
Miss Texas 2009
Set to Judge Queen’s Contestant at Fort Bend County Fair Style Show and Luncheon
Miss Texas 2009 Kristen Blair will be serving as a celebrity judge at the 21st Annual Fort Bend County Fair Style Show and Luncheon scheduled for Saturday, August 28th at Safari Texas Ranch.
K
risten Blair, Miss Texas 2009, will serve as a celebrity judge for the Fort Bend County Fair Style Show and Luncheon. The 21st annual event will be held Saturday, August 28th in the Magnolia Room at Safari Texas Ranch. The luncheon introduces and showcases the 2010 fair queen candidates as part of their competition for the 2010 title of Fort Bend County Fair Queen. In addition to the contestants, well-known local personalities will be strutting down the runway. Kristen’s experience in the pageant industry brings much excitement to this year’s event. In 2005, Kristen was named Miss Tri-Cities, and in 2009, she won the title of Miss Texas. With her Miss Texas 2009 title, Kristen went on to place in the top ten at the Miss America pageant. She is currently attending the University of North Texas finishing her BMA in Vocal Performance where she is a member of the UNT A Cappella Choir,
Committee members for the Fort Bend County Fair Style Show and Luncheon prepare for the 21st Annual Fort Bend County Fair Style Show and Luncheon scheduled for Saturday, August 28th at Safari Texas Ranch. Pictured, left to right, are: Front Row – Tammy Osina, Joanne Crouch, Monica Myska and Margaret Kunz. Middle Row – Bambi Lynn, Annie Elliott, Shannon Ferguson, Louise Blair, Judy Deats and Vickie Autrey. Back Row – Erika Fernandez, Christy Keating, Pat Scholes and Ruthie Harper.
Tau Sigma Honors Society and the National Honors Society. Through the Miss America system, Kristen has had the opportunity to earn nearly $40,000 in total scholarships. “We are thrilled to have Kristen participate as a judge in our Style Show,” said Elizabeth Duff Drozd, 2010 Fair President. “The queen contestants will gain so much valuable experience learning from Kristen’s expertise and example.” The fair queen candidates, who are vying for scholarship money, are judged by their presence onstage and in an interview with the judges. Candidates are judged by their showmanship, appearance and poise while onstage. During their interview, queen candidates are judged on their personal activities, personality, appearance and interview skills. A maximum of 15 points are awarded for the style show portion and a maximum of 35 points are awarded for the interview portion.
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Doors for the event will open at 10:30 a.m. to give guests time to enjoy mimosas and appetizers while shopping at the various vendor tables available and browsing the many raffle items on display prior to the style show and luncheon. The luncheon begins at 12:00 noon and the style show begins at 12:30 p.m. Tickets to the Style Show and Luncheon are $50 each and must be purchased in advance. Proceeds from the event benefit the Fort Bend County Fair Association, which helps provide deserving Fort Bend County youth with scholarships to attend Texas universities, colleges and vocational schools. Tickets can be purchased at the Fair Office, online at www.fbcfa.org or from any member of the Style Show Committee. For further information, please contact Joanne Crouch at 281703-7894, Monica Myska at 281-3007854 or the Fair Office at 281-3426171. H
Headliners continued from page 25
All Hands on Deck! American Cancer Society’s Couture for a Cause Escape to Treasure Island Kicks Off with Pirate-Themed Celebration
Custom Furniture • Full Service Design Studio Unique & One of a Kind Accessories & Gifts Sponsors and committee volunteers accept the mission to raise their swords for the Couture For A Cause.
Ahoy Mateys! The American Cancer Society kicked off their 2nd annual Couture for a Cause event on Wednesday, June 23rd with a pirate-themed celebration at a Newmark model home in Sienna Plantation. This year’s theme is Escape to Treasure Island, and the event will take place in a lush, tropical setting at Sienna Plantation’s newest resortstyle water park – The Resort at Sienna Springs. With guests dressed in swashbuckling chic pirate attire, the Sienna Plantation model home was transformed into a pirate’s paradise complete with a pirate ship and treasure chest to mark the spot. Costumed pirates welcomed guests with an array of pirate trickery and a friendly Macaw posed with guests for pictures. There was an array of booty, glamour, grub and ale for all, and the Couture for a Cause committee officially set sail for the big event scheduled for Saturday, September 25, 2010 at The Resort at Sienna Springs. For tickets or event information, contact Sheree Prather with the American Cancer Society at 713-706-5635 or sheree. prather@cancer.org. Join us for Couture for a Cause Escape to Treasure Island and raise your pirate swords to help us in the battle against cancer!
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Sienna Plantation “Stars” as Luxurious Location for Television Sitcom Sienna Plantation has gone Bollywood! An Indian sitcom called Teri Meri Dosti (Your & My Friendship) was filmed in Sienna Plantation in June and will soon be broadcast internationally. Several of Sienna Plantation’s custom, model homes are being featured in the sitcom including homes designed by Fairmont Homes and Huntington Homes. The producers chose to film in Sienna Plantation because the community portrayed the “end vision” of the sitcom integral to their show’s theme. Producers of the sitcom described Teri Meri Dosti as similar to the American sitcom, Friends. Both shows are composed of a young cast that throughout the course of their interpersonal relationships handle conflicts between each other. Imran Abbas, a well-known, popular actor and model in Pakistan, plays the lead role on the show. Although the television sitcom will air over 8,000 miles away in Dubai, the cast and crew were excited to film in the stunning homes and locations in Sienna Plantation. “The custom homes were gorgeous and allowed the crew and actors plenty of room to set up a scene because of the open floor plan design of the homes,” stated Narmeen Lakhani, Publisher and Editor of Sabse Bada Rupaiya, a Houston-based Southasian magazine working with the show’s producer. The producer decided to showcase lavish locations to business tycoons and investors overseas to familiar-
ize them with Houston as an established and thriving city full of opportunities, and Sienna Plantation was one of the prestigious locations. “This was a first for Sienna Plantation,” said Susie Goff, Marketing Director for Sienna Plantation, regarding the opportunity to be featured on an international television show. “We are thrilled that Teri Meri Dosti producers felt that our community was a perfect fit for their show, as well as the opportunity to showcase what Sienna Plantation has to offer to an international audience.” A 7,000-acre community, Sienna Plantation is home to five Fort Bend Independent School District campuses including Fort Bend’s newest high school, Ridge Point High School, opening this August. Sienna also boasts an impressive amenities list including two resort-style water parks, two additional community pools, a lakeside amphitheater, lighted tennis courts, playgrounds, a world-class fitness center and the Camp Sienna sports complex. Sienna’s on-site Director of Recreation and Fun oversees a full slate of classes, sports teams and events for all ages. Sienna Plantation Golf Club offers championship golf, a well-stocked pro shop and fine dining at The Grille. For more information on Sienna Plantation, located near Highway 6 and the Fort Bend Parkway, call 281.778.7777 or visit www.siennaplantation.com. About the Johnson Development Corporation The Johnson Development Corporation is an award-winning residential and commercial land development company involved in premier projects including master-planned communities such as Sienna Plantation, Fall Creek, Riverstone, Woodforest, Tuscan Lakes, Edgewater and Silverlake in Houston, Texas, and Towne Lake, BridgeMill and Lake Arrowhead in Atlanta, Georgia. Established in 1975, known for innovative master planning and, today, one of the largest and most successful land developers in both Houston and Atlanta, The Johnson Development Corporation has cultivated a strong reputation for vibrant, responsible development, with impeccably designed communities. For more information, visit www.johnsondevelopment.com.
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Headliners continued on page 36 www.fortbend
.com • August 2010
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Active, healthy and happy: The Primrose effect
T
ina and Matt Koenig, owners of Primrose School of First Colony, share one common goal: to prepare Fort Bend’s young children for lifelong academic and social successes. Primrose School of First Colony successfully maintains a high academic and moral standard for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years in its child care program and up to age 12 in its after school program. The Koenigs have been the owners of Primrose School of First Colony for five years, and they continue to provide a wellrounded education for young students. “As a parent, I was impressed by the advanced curriculum of Primrose,” Tina said. The accredited Primrose Balanced Learning® Curriculum incorporates a balance of both academic and character development through the use of both teacher-initiated and student-initiated learning. The Curriculum requires study in seven different learning areas: physical development and health, social/emotional development, language and literacy, creative arts and expression, math, science and technology and social studies. These seven areas of study ensure that each child achieves significant academic development. The Balanced Learning® Curriculum is accredited by CITA/SACS CASI, which require a school to meet and continue to maintain seven standards of schooling
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The Koenig family on vacation.
excellence, including Vision and Purpose, Teaching and Learning and Commitment to Continuous Improvement. The high accreditations allow parents to recognize the superior quality of the school. The high standards and drive for excellence that Tina maintains pushed the school to earn these commendable accreditations. “At Primrose School of First Colony, average learning materials and curriculum are not acceptable; we strive for excellence,” she said. “Decisions that we make for the school are always made in the best interest of the children. It is important for us to know that we’ve done our best and given the children all of the tools that they will need to succeed in life.” Tina and Matt first came in contact with Primrose when they were seeking to enroll their son, Brandon, in a preschool. Primrose made such an impression on Tina that she and Matt began to fort bend
magazine • August 2010
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be interested as more than just parents. “Matt and I had always dreamed of owning our own business,” Tina explained. “It dawned on us that we should be a part of Primrose as owners as well as parents.” Despite the fact that there were no immediate opportunities for the Koenigs to start another Primrose school in the state of Texas, one eventually became available for purchase in First Colony allowing Tina to become comfortably immersed in the world of her “cutie patooties.” “We kept meeting with Primrose and eventually, they said there were some existing schools for sale in Texas. Later, they narrowed it down to Houston and eventually, they let us know that the area was actually Sugar Land!” said Tina. “We felt that our path was being laid out for us.” Tina knows that she is helping to make the future of these children brighter. “By providing these children with the optimal balance of academics, character development and play, Matt and I are able to see our influence on these children as we watch them thrive, learn and grow in their own distinct ways.” Tina says. “I love my job!” To contact the Primrose School and learn about the Primrose difference, call 281-565-2707, visit website www.primrosefirstcolony.com or visit the school at 4605 Austin Parkway Sugar Land, TX 77479.
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Two Years/Eight Issues for $15.00 $9.95 (Only $1.25 per issue) Payment Enclosed (Please do not send cash) Or Call With Credit Card Information: 281-690-4242 Bill Me Mail to: 4655 Techniplex Dr., Suite 400, Stafford, TX 77477
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By Nick Nicholson
M
ikael Blomkvist, publisher of Millennium magazine, has made his living exposing the crooked and corrupt practices of establishment Swedish figures. So when a young journalist approaches him with a meticulously researched thesis about sex trafficking in Sweden and those in high office who abuse underage girls, Blomkvist immediately throws himself into the investigation. The Girl Who Played with Fire is the middle installment in a trio of books by the impressive Stieg Larsson. This picture picks up a year after the conclusion of the first film, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. The main character, one Lisbeth Salander (Noomi Rapace), is returning from Stockholm to find her partner, Mikael Blomkvist (Michael Nyqvist) knee deep in the middle of a story on the sex trade. Somehow the two are still connected after their time apart and as fate would also have it, a murder is committed shortly after her return and Salander is pegged as the killer. The story develops around the investigation done by the authorities, as well as the duo of Salander and Blomkvist, and the facts that soon come to light. The chemistry between Rapace and Nykqvist is absolutely impeccable. Both represent the intrigue and confusion necessary to pull of these roles without seeming trite or confused. After reading the trio of books, I am convinced that the director (Daniel Alfredson) did a remarkable job coaxing the performances out of the actors. I simply couldn’t imagine any other actors portraying these parts - which we may be forced to see soon enough. Plans are for an American version of the trio of films to be created soon. Why? Simply because this isn’t an American series? Geez...but I digress. Simply put, this isn’t a film for everyone. The story could be difficult to follow if you don’t pay strict attention to the film. Don’t get me wrong, this is an outstanding film that deserves a nomination at the year’s end. Don’t bring the kids to the theater, go to the restroom before getting to your seat and keep your eyes wide open. You will be pleasantly intrigued by this dark gem of a film.
Lisbeth Salander (Noomi Rapace)
The Girl Who Played with Fire Starring: Noomi Rapace & Michael Nyqvist Director: Daniel Alfredson Company: Music Box Films Now Showing: in Local Theaters MPAA Rating: NR Grade: A
Jan Bublanski (Johan Kylén) and Mikael Blomkvist (Michael Nyqvist)
All photos are courtesy of Music Box Films
Nick Nicholson is the Film and Entertainment Critic for CNN Radio, the Fort Bend Star, Focus Magazine, Pearland Focus as well as Focus on Women. In addition, his reviews can be seen and heard in numerous other print/media outlets in Texas and Oklahoma. Mr. Nicholson is in great demand as a speaker to both public and civic organizations on the subject of film and the entertainment industry. He is the co-founder of the Houston Film Critics Society and is currently the President of the organization. fort bend
magazine • August 2010
34
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Sienna Plantation has made a splash this summer with the grand opening of its third resort-style water park in the Johnson Development Corporation community, The Resort at Sienna Springs. Renowned for its lifestyle amenities, Sienna Plantation’s addition of The Resort at Sienna Springs, which boasts 9,000 square feet of water features with the ability to accommodate 750 guests, is a unique attraction to the master planned community and offers many different amenities designed for all ages. Surrounded by tropical, lush landscaping with a cascading tower waterfall at the center, The Resort at Sienna Springs is divided into specific zones for adults and children. The children’s zones feature two enormous water slides. One is a large, tunnel drop slide for the more adventurous, and the other is a slower, meandering slide. Both slides empty into a plunge pool that features a waterfall. Other amenities for children include a giant lily pad obstacle course and lifesized water cannons that emerge from the pool. A zero entry beach provides easy access for the little ones and features bubbling water jets. Safety is a key component to the park’s design and permanent lifeguard stands are located throughout the park. Eight to ten lifeguards are on duty dur-
ing park hours to insure safety in the over-sized water areas. Adults can enjoy multiple tanning ledges for sunbathing and wooden verandas and custom-made trellises that surround the water park. Comfortable lounge chairs, umbrella tables and convenient vending machines are also included in various areas. “No master planned community has as many water amenities as Sienna Plantation,” said Susie Goff, marketing director. From our multiple pools, slides and splash zones, our water amenities help make Sienna Plantation a unique, family-oriented community. “There’s something for everyone at our resort-style water parks.” Creating a unique water park focusing on amenities was the vision for The Resort at Sienna Springs according to TBG Partners, the firm who built the water park. “Most community pools are built for swim teams with only a few amenities,” said Bill Odle, TBG Partners. “The Resort at Sienna Springs was based 100% on amenities custom designed to appeal to all ages.” The water park has a dual purpose as it features a large plaza area perfect for community events. The park has already been the site of The Grand Wine and Food Affair’s Annual Sienna Sip and Stroll attended by over 4,000 guests. On September 25th, the park will be the site for the American Cancer Society’s Couture for a Cause fashion show and fundraising event. The Resort at Sienna Springs is open to all Sienna residents and is within walking distance of three new neighborhoods located in The Village of Anderson Springs. Models are now open in these new neighborhoods and home prices range from the $180,000’s to the $300,000’s. The Village of Anderson Springs is located near Sienna Plantation’s newest elementary school, Schiff Elementary, and is in proximity to Highway 6. For more information on Sienna Plantation or The Resort at Sienna Springs, located near Highway 6 and the Fort Bend Parkway, call 281.778.7777 or visit www.siennaplantation.com.
Headliners continued on page 45
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Go to www.FortBendFocus.com Pictures are available online for this month only, download now. Compliments of Fort Bend FOCUS.
American Cancer Society’s
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FORT BEND NEW NEIGHBOR Fort Bend’s First Pet Funeral Home For pet owners of Fort Bend County, there is now a first class funeral home for our cherished pets. Long time resident Catherine (“Cay”) Dalrymple recently opened Paws Memorial Service to offer pet parents a new level of aftercare for our furry and feathered family members. Having formerly owned and operated a local boarding kennel, Cay has been involved in the pet care industry professionally for many years. Personally, she just loves animals. Our pets are our best friends. They give us unconditional love and support throughout their life and they break our heart only once. Knowing their passing deserved a respect and tribute befitting a family member, Cay opened Paws Memorial Service with a mission to provide pet parents with that special place to turn to. They are here to support you and to treat your pet with the utmost care and respect -- as if they were their own. Specializing in private pet cremation and memorialization, they are available to meet you at their beautiful Center, your veterinarian’s office or at your home. Located off Alt-90 on the outskirts of Sugar Land, Paws Memorial invites people to come tour and meet them. They offer preplanning and recommend pet owners look into their options in advance whenever possible. Making informed decisions regarding final arrangements is always more difficult when your needs are immediate and you are overwhelmed with emotion. For more information, call us at 281/342-PAWS (7297), or visit their website at www.PawsMemorialService.com.
Dr. Amitabh Shukla has recently moved to Methodist Hospital Professional Building 3, in Sugar Land Although serving the needs of Fort Bend County for over 11 years, Dr. Amitabh Shukla has recently moved to Methodist Hospital Professional Building 3, Suite 210, in Sugar Land, Texas. Dr. Shukla is Board Certified in Adult Neurology, Electromyography, Sleep Medicine, and Vascular Neurology. Dr. Shukla has been appointed Stroke Director at Methodist Hospital Sugar Land as well as Oak Bend Medical Center. Dr. Shukla lives in Sugar Land with his family. He is affiliated with Methodist Hospital Sugar Land, St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital, as well as Oak Bend Medical Center. In addition to Adult Neurology, which includes disease conditions such as headaches, migraines, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, neck pain, back pain, carpel tunnel syndrome, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, TIA, seizure disorder, myasthenia gravis, polyneuropathy, etc., Dr. Shukla is also specialized in treating sleep related disorders such as excessive snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, obstructive sleep apnea and restless leg syndrome. Dr. Shukla is also fellowship trained for neuromuscular diseases and is Board Certified in electromyography/nerve condition study. You can reach Dr. Shukla’s office at 281-565-8005 if you need to schedule an appointment. Dr. Shukla’s web address is www.neuroshukla.com
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FORT BEND NEW NEIGHBOR Unique cuisine from Indian Ocean
First Victoria The Oldest Independent Bank in Texas
As the name says, the unique cuisine of Indian Ocean offers the best of the southwestern coast of India. Famous for its spices, India has been a cultural melting pot for over 2000 years. The merchants and missionaries came and stayed, adding their influence to the region’s culture and cuisine. Over the years, the traditional produce of the coast – vegetables like the yam, potato and jack fruit and fruits like the coconut, mango, banana and pineapple, as well as fish and prawns – have been combined in new and interesting ways in a diverse range of dishes. Indian Ocean’s unique cuisine offers the best of Southern as well as Northern Indian cuisine. Blending aromatic Indian spices with modern cooking techniques, our chefs conjure flavors that are fresh and delightful. We blend Ancient and Modern cooking techniques to perfection. Our chefs make Indian Ocean not only a delicious choice, but also a healthy one, by using minimal oil and no saturated fat. Indian Ocean serves a variety of foods from different backgrounds. Our cuisine ranges from street corner food like Manglore a Bunt’s Kori Roti to more adventurous food like Fish Rava Masala and Bangalore Mutton Chops. Come to Indian Ocean today and try our delicious Indian specialties! Call us at 281-240-0377 or visit us at 3559 Hwy 6 South, Sugar Land, TX, 77478. We’re open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday and Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday.
Step into one of their banking centers to experience the best that banking has to offer. With 143 years of serving the financial needs of Texans, First Victoria has remained true to its heritage and core competencies. First Victoria has successfully weathered every modern historic period of economic challenge including the Great Depression and the Texas banking problems of the 1980’s. Experience and benefit from its Rich heritage, Clear direction and Consistent strength through use of a complete line of banking services including a full service brokerage group, insurance company, and trust department. Free! Free! Free! Still maintaining the concept that free is better, First Victoria still gives free gifts and offers free checking for both personal and business accounts. While many other banks are cutting back or charging for services, First Victoria features cutting edge amenities including a coffee station, an Internet café, office equipment, and coin counters at many of their locations. You will find the management team actively engaged within the community. From Chamber memberships and committees, to boards of many local civic and non-profit organizations, they are proudly there to serve. Although new to the Ft. Bend area, they have 26 banking centers to service the state of Texas. Locally you can experience banking at its best at the following locations: • Cinco Ranch - 5005 S Mason Rd, • Richmond - 8011 W Grand Parkway South (Inside Kroger) • Rosenberg – 24401 Brazos Town Crossing (Inside Kroger)
www.fortbend
.com • August 2010
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FORT BEND
Focus CareS Growing the Vineyard at the Pregnancy Help Center of West Houston
M
ary Lee Mason is a key volunteer with the Pregnancy Help Center of West Houston, valued for her dedication and for the wealth of relevant experience she brings to the center’s work. For three years Mary Lee served as the Director of Hope Pregnancy Center in Killeen Texas while her husband Wayne, an Army officer, was stationed at Fort Hood. Upon his retirement they relocated to Northwest Houston where they actively serve in their church. Mary Lee Mary Lee has most recently become involved in training volunteers and assisting with abortion recovery services. She leads Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat on weekends and is also as a certified facilitator for the “Surrendering the Secret” and “Forgiven and Set Free” abortion recovery programs. Most recently Mary Lee was appointed as the Texas Southwest Region Leader for Operation Outcry, a ministry of the Justice Foundation. And in reaching out to persons suffering from a painful abortion experiences, Mary Lee also serves as a phone consultant with the National Helpline for Abortion Recovery
Mary Lee’s experience and her determination to help others overcome some of life’s most wrenching challenges render her work at Pregnancy Help Center of West Houston a continual series of personal restorations. And these restorations in turn enable the individuals involved to marshal the inner strength to minister to and heal others. Mary Lee’s deep reservoir of faith has conferred upon her the insight that it’s possible to transcend apparent limitations through service, generosity, and compassion. Though Mary Lee had led Rachel’s Vineyard retreats for more than four years in the Killeen area, her first retreat sponsored by our Center will be held on August 13-15. (Due to the overwhelming response, there is already a waiting list to attend). If you are interested in attending a future retreat or think you would benefit from our abortion recovery program, please contact Mary Lee Mason at the Pregnancy Help Center of West Houston at rachelsvineyard@phckaty.org. For volunteer opportunities visit www. VolunteerFortBend.org or call 281-340-1919. H
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magazine • August 2010
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Will You Join Us as We
SWING FOR THE CURE? Methodist Sugar Land Hospital and the Fort Bend Junior Service League have partnered together to SWING FOR THE CURE — a charity golf tournament benefitting Fort Bend residents in the fight against Breast Cancer. All funds raised will be donated to the American Cancer Society and will stay within our community to assist breast cancer patients.
Charity Golf Tournament Benefitting the American Cancer Society
Monday, October 18, 2010 Sponsorship Opportunities Still Available $2500 - Luv Ya Blue - You and a friend golf with Houston Oilers Hall of Fame players Kenney Houston and Elvin Bethea $2500 - Fightin' Texas Aggies - You and a friend golf with Texas Aggies Bucky Richardson and Aaron Glen $2500 - Auction Sponsor - Your company name will appear on live auction bid paddles, silent auction bid sheets and in the program $1500 - Beverage Sponsor - Market your business at one hole. Meet all players and hand out promotional materials. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available online at MethodistSugarLand.com/swingforthecure. For more information: Call: Leena Taneja at 281-274-8097 Email: swingforthecure@TMHS.org Online: MethodistSugarLand.com/swingforthecure
Make a Donation Mail donations to: Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Attn: Leena Taneja 16655 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, Texas 77479 Make checks payable to: MSLH - Swing for the Cure Charge to a credit card by faxing the form below to 281-274-8010 Name: _________________________________________ Phone: _____________ Alternate Phone: _______________ Billing Address: ___________________________________ City/State/Zip: ___________________________________ Amount: ___________ Type of Card: _________________ Card Number: ______________________ Exp.Date: _____ Print Name: _____________________________________
Houstonian Golf & Country Club Thank You to Our Sponsors EmergiGroup Physician Associates Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas Breast Center of Fort Bend Foot Centers of Texas Plastic Surgery of Houston Houston Radiology Associates Chevray Plastic Surgery Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes Founders Bank Total InPatient Services Colorectal Surgical Associates Consolidated Home Health Gen-Tech Construction Greater Houston Anesthesiology Priority Integrated Marketing Texas Spine & Neurosurgery Center Templeton Breast Care Methodist Sugar Land Breast Radiologists Healthy Advice Communications Advance Oncology Sugar Land Oncology CNA Advertising
Authorized Signature: ______________________________
DONATE ONLINE - go to MethodistSugarLand.com/swingforthecure
The Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra Annual End of Season Celebration
Founding Members Sandy Chapman, Marilyn Conger and Becky Walker
Coleman Locke, Hector Agüero, Skip Thompson
David Flores, Marilyn Conger, Charity James, Hector Agüero, Amy Floyd Billasch, Katie Truax, Diana Quam, Secretary; Stacey Tharalson, Laura Agüero, Anne-Marie Suire
Nancy Olson and Jacquie Chaumette Speak about Women in Politics
OakBend Medical Professional Building Ribbon Cutting and Business Blender
Farha Ahmed, Nancy Olson, Jacquie Chaumette
Ribbon cutting marking the Grand Opening of OakBend Medical Professional Building on Williams Way.
Linda Hancock, Sarah Abraham, Betty Adams
Cindy Reaves, Cliff Terrell, Dena Perry
Gail Parker, Marvin Marcell, Jeff Council, Claude Leatherwood
MFAH One Year Anniversary of the Nidhika and Pershant Mehta Arts of India Gallery
Sumant Patel, Ninan Mathew, Ravi Chidambarram
Peter Marzio, Nidhika, Pershant Mehta fort bend
Shantha, AP Raghuthama, Valerie Greiner
magazine • August 2010
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Shantha Raguthaman, Sushila Agrawal
Headliners continued from page 37
It’s that time again....
Parks Youth and Recreation Board of Directors Mike McGrath, Dick Hogan, Jim Kij, Bob Brown, Kolbe Curtice, Mark Eyring, Bill Rohrbach and Linda Shultz.
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Dick Hogan, Scott Lundy, Linda Shultz, Mark Tennant.
Parks Youth Ranch, Inc. Forms a New Advisory Board Members of the newly formed Parks Youth Ranch Advisory Board along with the Board of Directors were recently invited to a reception hosted by The Post Oak Grill in Sugar Land. Those in attendance learned about the history of the organization, viewed landscape and architectural rendering for the Fred and Mabel R. Parks Youth Ranch and met shelter partner agency representative from Arrow Child and Family Ministries. Arrow and Parks Youth Ranch have signed an agreement allowing Arrow to operate the shelter program at the ranch when it opens this fall. Mark Tennant, CEO and Founder of Arrow, spoke about how he came to found his organization, about their operations in Texas and Maryland and how this collaboration between the two non profits would be a model for other communities on how best to address the issue of teen homelessness. The youth ranch located in Fairchilds, TX will provide shelter and care to at risk and homeless youth ages 13 to 17. For more information or to make a donation please contact Linda Shultz at ldshultz@gmail.com or call 281-778-0150.
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Headliners continued on page 47 www.fortbend
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Sugar Land Plastic Surgery Celebrates Their 2nd Anniversary
Sherie Trentacosta, Anh Ngo, Ann Trinh, Dr. Nguyen, Trinh Basarabescu
Rose Herbst, Melissa Smalling, Kristi Soileau, Sharon Bailey
Jesse & Angie Benavidez
Lisa Kilday, Brittany Smith, Less Kilday Brittany Smith, Shelby Christindis, Dr. Nguyen, Ofelia Cornejo
The Woman’s Club of Missouri City Supports of Local Civic Pursuits
Moji & Megan Okundaye
Fort Bend Rainbow Room Awarded $5,000 Grant by Fort Bend Cares
Diane Ware, Fort Bend Museum’s Dew House Project’s Historian, receives a $1,500 donation check presented by Jo Butterfield.
Fort Bend Cares representatives Jill Curtis (left) and Angela Mason (right) with Rainbow Room Executive Director Tonya Lewis.
Sugar Land Superstar Round II Finalists
Keith Eason, (back row, left), Cameron Wilson, Chase Nease, Hayley Beiermeister, (front row, left) and Jenelle Williamson
Lake Pointe Town Center Family Festival
Karen Howell and door prize winners Dorine Craig and Steve Batogower with Wende Lewis-Buckley
Charity Kayak Race at the festival
fort bend
magazine • August 2010
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750 beach balls were released over the crowd to help kick off the festival
Headliners continued from page 45
An Innovative Bilingual Musical – The Tale of Kieu Musical The Tale of Kieu Musical scheduled September 10 – 12, 2010 with five performances at HBU- Morris Cultural Arts Center. It’s a Broadway style musical based on the original Epic Poem in Vietnamese, The Tale of Kieu was written by Nguyen Du (1766–1820), and is widely regarded as the most significant work within Vietnamese literature. The poem recounts the life, trials and tribulations of Thuy Kieu, a beautiful and talented young woman, who had to sell herself to save her father and younger brother from prison. The words and phrases within the poem have been used daily by Vietnamese people for their spiritual values, for motivation, encouragement and to face life’s challenges. There are at least sixty-five scholarly studies of The Tale of Kieu and the poem has been translated in over ten different languages. In addition, a splendid “KIEU GALA” is scheduled to take place at Kim Son Restaurant, Bellaire Blvd, Friday, August 27th, to honor Vietnamese Culture and Community and to celebrate the innovative bilingual production, The Tale of Kieu Musical. The Gala program will include celebrity singers from California, performers from The Tale of Kieu Musical, silent and live auctions, award presentations to Houston Vietnamese citizens who have made significant contributions to the Arts and Culture within the community, and plenty of dancing to the music! The Presenting Sponsor for the evening is Kim Son Restaurant. Many community leaders including the Mayor of Houston, Annise D. Parke, have shown their support for this innovative project. For further information, please contact Worldwide Stage at 281-239-8139, email:worldwidestage@ gmail.com or visit the production website: www.taleofkieu.com.
Headliners continued on page 76
TRanquil SEREniTy
Experience a peaceful country setting like no other at the George Ranch Historical Park. With seven historic venues and countless custom package offerings, the possibilities are as wide as the blue Texas sky.
Weddings • Receptions • Picnics Corporate Events • Galas • Meetings
10215 FM 762 in Richmond www.georgeranch.org (281) 343-0218 events@georgeranch.org PHoTo: Roy KaSMiR August2010_SiteRentals.indd 3
7/8/2010 12:43:29 PM
Morris Cultural Arts Center Houston Baptist University 7502 Fondren Rd., Houston
Fri., Sept. 10 7:30 PM Sat., Sept. 11 2 PM & 7:30 PM Sun., Sept. 12 2 PM & 7:30 PM
Online Tickets:
www.taleofkieu.com
VIP Center: $48 General Seating: $38 Students: $25 / $18
Tickets: (1)281-239-8139
A new musical drama based on the renowned poem, The Tale of Kieu ! The story of Kieu will touch your heart ! Songs, Dance, Martial Arts, scenery and Colorful Costume together bring you a spiritual night of entertainment ! www.fortbend
.com • August 2010
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Community Calendar
Fort Bend Tour Choirboys Emilio Fautsch and Emmanuel Arredondo
ALL MONTH FORT BEND BOYS CHOIR AUDITIONS Auditions for the Fort Bend Boys Choir’s upcoming 29th season are ongoing this summer through midAugust. Boys with unchanged voices should be 8 years old or going into the third grade for the 2010-2011 school year. Call the Fort Bend Boys Choir office for additional audition details and to make a special appointment. Also, ask about Music Magic, their music enrichment program for 6 and 7 year old boys that starts in September! Learn more at www.fbbctx.com or, call at 281-240-3800. ALL MONTH MONDAY, 7 - 8 PM CHRISTMAS IN AUGUST Come learn Christmas carols with the Sweet Adelines, Barbershop style, and perform with us at Christmas time. We will rehearse each Monday evening starting August 2nd at Christ United Methodist Church. Music and learning CD’s will be provided. This is open to every woman of any age in the area who loves to sing. We are the Cradle of Texas Chorus. For more information please call Charlene at 713-774-3975.
PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Events, schedules and information may change without notice. Please refer to the event’s contact person or check the event’s website for more information.
August 2010 ALL MONTH MONDAY - FRIDAY 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM OR 1:30 – 5:30 PM MUSICAL THEATRE CAMP Cool off with us this summer at Fort Bend Theatre’s summer musical theatre camps for ages 5 - 18! Campers will learn acting, singing and dancing, and will perform for friends and family on the final day of class. Each August camp run MondayFriday 8:30am – 12:30 pm or 1:30 – 5:30 pm, with a different show and age group each week. Camps this year include High School Musical 2, Wizard of Oz and Aladdin. The total cost of the camp is $200.00, which includes a non-refundable deposit of $50.00 to hold your child’s place. Camp size is limited and spaces fill quickly. Call 281-208-3333 today to make your reservations, and visit www. fortbendtheatre.com for details regarding specific dates, ages and shows. 4th WEDNESDAY, 1 PM MD ANDERSON SUGAR LAND FREE HEALTH SEMINAR The University of Texas MD Anderson Regional Care Center in Sugar Land will host a free seminar on how to reduce your cancer risk at the Sugar Land Senior’s Program. Attendees will get the facts on cancer, learn how to improve health, make healthy choices and learn about screening exams. Reservations not required. The program is located at 200 Matlage Way in Sugar Land. Open to guests who are at least 55 years old. Call 281-275-2893. 6TH – 21ST THURSDAYS - SATURDAYS, 8PM SUNDAYS, 3 PM Fort Bend Theatre’s summer chill, The Woman in Black Don’t miss award-winning Fort Bend Theatre’s summer chill, The Woman in Black, August 6th – 21st, Thursdays - Saturdays at 8 pm and Sundays at 3 pm at 2815 N. Main St in Stafford. Based on the novel by Susan Hill, The Woman in Black gives audiences an evening of unremitting fort bend
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drama as they are transported into a terrifying and ghostly world. In this thrilling tale, a lawyer hires an actor to assist in recounting a story that has long troubled him concerning events that transpired when he attended the funeral of an elderly recluse. There he caught sight of the woman in black, the mere mention of whom terrifies the locals, for anyone who sees her dies! Tickets are only $13.00 for adults, $12.00 for seniors or students, and $10.00 for children, and are available online at www. fortbendtheatre.com. For group sales or for more information please call FBT at 281-208-3333. 7TH 6:30 PM -12 PM OLD FOSTER COMMUNITY MUSEUM’S ANNUAL BIG EVENT: FISH AND FUN This year will mark the first time the Old Foster Community Museum will host one “big event” fundraiser instead of the usual three…the plant sale, wine gala, and BBQ will be rolled up into ONE! The event for 2010 will be “Fish and Fun”….a huge “all you can eat” fish fry cooked by “Retired” Sheriff Joe Pollock of Burnett County. The event will be at Gordon Ranch, 7715 FM 359 in Richmond. In keeping with all of the past three events, there will be a live auction, silent auction, raffle, plant sale and door prizes. The ticket cost is $45 presale and $55 at the door. All monies raised go toward the continued development and restoration of land and buildings, community service projects, and the scholarship program. For more information, visit www. fostercommunitymuseum.com or email vickietonn@yahoo.com. 12th THURSDAY, 5 - 7 PM FORT BEND PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S REUNION Come to the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce to renew friendships. We will be honoring our Charter Members. Refreshments will be provided. Please RSVP by August 6th to Susan Hargarther at 281-208-1100.
13TH FRIDAY, 6:30PM KOFFEE KLATCH AND JAZZ CONCERT Join us at First Methodist Church Missouri City at 3900 Lexington Blvd. in Missouri City for this event. Tickets of $25 will be presold only. For more information, please call 281-499-3502. 14TH SATURDAY, 8 PM Music Fest 2010: ABBA The Concert For a limited time only, the Women’s Center will pre-sell premium tickets and sponsorships to see ABBA, The Concert, at Music Fest 2010. Individual tickets are $90 each. Avoid purchasing fees, long lines or poor seating by purchasing now! Please contact Anne Budill at 281.344.5756. 22ND 11AM - 7PM HOLY ROSARY CHURCH 74TH ANNUAL BAZAAR Join the Holy Rosary Catholic Church for our 74th Annual Bazaar. We will serving a three meat dinner of barbecue beef, chicken and sausage with potatoes, beans and all the trimmings. Meals served from 11:01am - 2:01pm. Drive-through is available. Live and Silent Auctions, Raffles, Live Music, Booths and Games for the entire family. Plenty of free parking. Come and enjoy the day with your family, friends and neighbors in Rosenberg. For more information, visit www.hrccr.com. 30TH 10:30 AM - 7PM 10TH ANNUAL BACK TO SCHOOL SCRAMBLE GOLF TOURNAMENT The Back To School Scramble Golf Tournament benefitting the Fort Bend Education Foundation will take place at Sweetwater Country Club. For more information, visit our website for more information www.fortbendisd.com/foundation.
Upcoming for September ALL MONTH 9:20AM WOMEN’S MINISTRY OF SUGAR LAND BAPTIST CHURCH BIBLE STUDY Beginning Wednesday, September 1, 9:20am, the Women’s Ministry of Sugar Land Baptist Church (formerly Williams Trace Baptist Church) is offering two Bible Study classes for women, “Jesus, the One and Only” by Beth Moore and a Joy of Living study on “Moses & the Israelites.” Online registration is available for both studies at www. sugarlandbaptist.org. Childcare will be available by reservation. For more information, call the church office at 281.980.4431. ALL MONTH BACK TO SCHOOL WITH FORT BEND THEATRE ACTING CLASSES Fort Bend Theatre launches their Fall Acting classes for ages eight through eighteen. Classes will be held on Saturday mornings beginning September 18, 2010 and ending November 13, 2010. The cost is $200, payable by a $50 non-refundable deposit to hold your child’s place. For more information consult the FBT website at www.fortbendtheatre. com, or call (281)208-3333 today to register. 11TH 6PM TO 9PM STEP INTO SCOUTING Step Into Scouting and discover the endless possibilities the world of scouts had to offer. Connect with others as you visit booths and view demonstrations. Sit back, relax and enjoy the entertainment showcasing scouts’ talents. Scouts welcomes people of all ages, we hope to see you there, Rain or Shine at Sugar Land Town Square! For information contact Tina Scarlatella at 713-292-0268
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SUGAR LAND TOWN SQUARE EVENTS www.sugarlandtownsquare.com Call 281-313-SLTS
Thursday, August 5 7 – 9 pm Thursday Night Jazz in the Plaza Friday, August 6 7 – 9 pm Concert in the Plaza Saturday, August 7 7 – 9 pm Concert in the Plaza Friday, August 13 7 – 9 pm Concert in the Plaza Saturday, August 14 7 – 9 pm Sugar Land Superstar Finale Presented by David Taylor Cadillac Thursday, August 19 7 – 9 pm Thursday Night Jazz in the Plaza Friday, August 20 7 – 8 pm Children’s Concert in the Plaza Saturday, August 21 8:45 – 11 pm Minute Maid Presents Movies Under the Moon Friday, August 27 7:30 – 9 pm Dancing Under the Stars Presented by Fred Astaire Dance Studio Saturday, August 28 6 – 9 pm Experiencing The Joy of the Lord Presented by Quail Valley Church
Honors the
BENEFITING
Magazine
Thursday, September Twenty Three, Two Thousand and Ten ◆ 11:30 am - 1:30 pm Safari Texas Ranch ◆ 11627 FM 1464 ◆ Richmond, Texas
Fort Bend Focus Magazine Hosts The JEWELS of Fort Bend Joyous, Extraordinary Women Enriching Lives
F
Tickets for the raffle are $20 ort Bend Focus Magaeach and are available for zine, the county’s premier pre-purchase or for purchase magazine showcasing people, at the event. The raffle will places and happenings, is feature at least 12 items inpleased to announce their third cluding a three day/two night annual event honoring five exHill Country Getaway donattraordinary women whose coned by Steve and Susan Host; a tributions to our community bus trip to Coushatta Casino make them real gems. Resort for you and 54 guests Fort Bend Focus Honors donated by Coushatta Casino the JEWELS of Fort Bend Resort; a one-month memberis scheduled for Thursday, ship to Lifestyles at OakBend September 23, 2010 with a to increase your overall menpremier Luncheon and Style tal and physical health donatShow honoring this year’s Fort The 2010 Joyous, Extraordinary Women Enriching Lives: Lynn ed by Lifestyles at OakBend; Bend JEWELs – five Joyous, Halford, Carolyn Banfield, Peggy Duggan, Brigit Engleman and Cassandra Wen. Join the JEWELS at Fort Bend Focus Magazine and an array of unique and Extraordinary Women EnrichHonors the JEWELS of Fort Bend on Thursday, September 23, 2010 at fabulous jewelry such as a ing Lives. The five JEWELs Safari Texas Ranch. sterling silver and jade bracefor 2010 are Carolyn Banfield, to serve over 230,000 meals this year, and let donated by Dianne Wilson. Peggy Duggan, Brigit Engleman, Lynn we are honored to assist with this muchFort Bend Focus Honors the Halford and Cassandra Wen. From the needed and worthwhile program.” JEWELS of Fort Bend is open to the Fort Bend Junior Service League to the While the event will be the highlight of public and will be held at Safari Texas Lamar Consolidated Independent School Fort Bend Focus Honors the JEWELS Ranch in Richmond from 11:30 am to District to the Tri Cities Resale Shop, of Fort Bend, the September magazine 1:30 pm on Thursday, September 23rd. these women are all committed to makwill feature a beautiful spread showcasing In addition to the Luncheon and Style ing our community the best place to live, photos and biographies of the five JEWShow, featuring fashions from Dillard’s, work and raise our families. Fort Bend ELS along with sponsors of the event. event sponsors will be treated to a Focus Magazine is pleased to recognize Distributed directly to Fort Bend homes private Champagne Reception with the their efforts while doing something that each month, as well as in rack distribuJEWELS prior to the event sponsored they all feel passionate about: supporttion at businesses and retailers throughby Will and Lena Hardee/Hardee ing our community. out the county, the special Fort Bend FoInvestment Group. Sponsors to date Proceeds from Fort Bend Focus cus Honors the JEWELS of Fort Bend include Emerald Sponsor Safari Texas Honors the JEWELS of Fort Bend section will pay homage to these special Ranch; Ruby Sponsors Alisa Murray will be invested back into our community women and their community service. Photography, J Loggins Jewelers, by supporting a vital organization: Fort “Because of the efforts of the wonderMethodist Sugar Land Hospital, Bend Seniors. This non-profit organizaful, caring individuals who devote so Pamela Printing and Salon Eben tion provides services and resources dedimuch of their time and talent to our phiand Day Spa; Corporate Gems Neil & cated to enhancing seniors’ lives in Fort lanthropies, especially these five women Carolyn Banfield, PB & J Pavement Bend County. Regardless of income, Fort – Carolyn, Peggy, Brigit, Lynn and CasMarketing, Inc., May W. Tape, DDS Bend Seniors provides Meals on Wheels sandra – our community is a better place,” and Texas Direct Auto; and Sapphire to all persons 60 years of age and over. said Fredrickson. “Fort Bend Focus MagSponsors Adbright Healthcare Eighty-five percent of Fort Bend Seniors’ azine is proud to honor their commitment Services Inc., and Mr. & Mrs. Jack clients live at or below the poverty line. to Fort Bend County and be able to give Wendt. Sponsorships range from “Because Fort Bend County has a back to the community that has so gra$1,000 to $7,500 and include magazine large population 60 years of age or older, ciously supported us.” advertising. Individual tickets are we felt compelled to work with this orgaThis year, Fort Bend Focus Honors available for $65. For sponsorship nization to help fund programs for our sethe JEWELS of Fort Bend will include a information or to purchase tickets, niors with the JEWELS event this year,” raffle to further benefit Fort Bend Seniors. contact Fort Bend Focus Magazine said Lisa Fredrickson, publisher of Fort One hundred percent of the proceeds from at 281-690-4242 or visit www. Bend Focus Magazine. “Fort Bend Sethe raffle will benefit Fort Bend Seniors. FortBendFocus.com. ★ niors Meals on Wheels program expects fort bend
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FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE Health Care News You Can Use
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FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE Sugar Land Vein Specialists
Friends & Family LASIK Pricing Is Back! This Amazing Promotion Returns to Sugarland Eye & Laser Center for the Summer Sugarland Eye & Laser Center, Fort Bend’s LASIK specialists, is bringing back their exclusive Friends & Family LASIK special. If you have LASIK during the promotion period, a friend or family member can also have laser vision correction at half-price! “For the past 2 years, we have had great success with this promotion. It allowed us make premium LASIK affordable for everyone. Our center has brought back this promotion for the summer. We want to make sure all Fort Bend Residents can enjoy premium LASIK delivered in a safe and effective manner,” explains Dr. Khokhar. It’s simple. Suppose you have
Simple steps to keep your legs healthy
LASIK. A family member or friend of yours can have LASIK at half-price during the promotion period. Or if you have a friend or family member who has had LASIK with Sugarland Eye & Laser Center, have them refer you so that you can enjoy premium laser vision correction at an amazing 50% off. To see if you are a candidate, call 281-240-0478 or go to www.sugarlandeye.com. You will be able to schedule a free consultation at Sugarland Eye & Laser Center during which you will personally meet with Dr. Khokhar. This promotion ends September 30, 2010. Restrictions apply. See Ad on Page 5
Compounding Corner Pharmacy, Inc.™ Prevention and Treatment of High Cholesterol (Hypercholesterolemia) Hypercholesterolemia is a collective term reflecting high levels of cholesterol in the blood. It in itself, is not the disease, but is a major underlying cause of cardiovascular disease. Heart disease/cardiovascular disease is the number one killer in the United States at 652,091 deaths per year. Elevated cholesterol is due to abnormalities in the levels of lipoproteins in the blood. The type of hypercholesterolemia depends on which type of lipoprotein is in excess with Type IIa and Type IIb being the most common. Risk factors include diet, genetics and the presence of diabetes, hypothyroidism, sedentary lifestyle and obesity. High cholesterol levels are treated with diets low in cholesterol, decreased refined carbohydrates, increased fiber, increased cardiovascular exercise to an extent of thirty minutes or more - six times a week, medication prescribed by your physician and by adding supplements. A major issue that should be discussed is the use of statin medications. While they can have their place in therapy, there are two major issues that arise. The first is the manifestation of muscle pain that especially
plagues men. Patients typically complain of leg pain. The second is the significant drop in coenzyme-Q10 levels. This is particularly of concern as patients with hypercholesterolemia already have low levels of coenzyme Q-10. Coenzyme Q-10 is important for the mitochondrial creation and formation of energy. While all cells have mitochondria, the cells of the heart have a particularly high density. Of course, prevention is the best defense for Hypercholesterolemia. The recipe for success is: Follow the Harvard Study Diet and add a bowl of oatmeal every morning; Get a personal trainer Cardiovascular exercise. We all need the structure; Bio-identical hormone replacement (Menopause and Andropause); Policosanol - 10mg twice daily (Thorne); Fish oil – 1,000mg twice daily (Carlson’s or Thorne); Garlic (Not the cooked kind!) - Garlitrin 4000 once daily (Phytopharmica); Niacin – 2,400mg twice daily (Thorne); Coenzyme Q10 – 300mg once daily (Thorne) For more information, visit www. compoundingcornerpharmacy.com See Ad on Page 1. fort bend
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Our legs are an important part of our freedom. They allow us to move and complete tasks. Often venous disease tends to damage the adequate function of them. These area few tips to improve the physical condition of our legs: 1. Exercise. Regular activity including walking, jogging, bike riding and water aerobics are excellent for your legs. Standing without much movement and without support hose is the worst position for venous health. 2. Elevate your legs. 10 minutes twice a day. This will decrease the pressure of the venous system. When we are in bed our legs are at the same level of our heart. Placing a pillow under our calves or feet will elevate them above that level and blood will flow easier. 3. Flex your ankles. To help contract your calf muscles, flex and extend your ankle 10 times every 10-20 minutes when you are standing or walk 2 minutes every half hour. 4. Good Shoes. When the calf muscles are not allowed to fully contract (flat shoes or high heels) they are inefficient and blood will accumulate in the veins. 5. Weight. Any increase weight will put pressure in the legs and decrease the blood return to the heart. 6. Support Hose. Ultimately, the proper compression stockings will be your best ally. To obtain the proper support hose and in order for the garment to deliver the required pressure, you need to be measured. For more information, call Sugar Land Vein Specialists at 281-240-8400 or visit our website at www.slveins.com.
FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE
SUGAR LAND
S
VEIN SPECIALISTS
SUGAR LAND VEIN SPECIALISTS Sugar Land Vein Specialists is a practice dedicated exclusively to treat venous insufficiency that can cause painful varicose veins, venous stasis ulcers as well as swelling and pain. Our physicians are trained vascular surgeons certified by the American Board of Surgery not only in General Surgery but also a special certification in Vascular Surgery.
Adios veins! Varicose veins are an unfortunate but not uncommon side effect of pregnancy. Normally the veins carry the blood back to the heart against gravity with the help of one-way valves that are located inside the veins. When these valves fail, the blood accumulates and the veins distend, causing painful varicose veins. A young Missouri City mother, Sheri Vossos, suffered these consequences. “I have had a daily battle with leg fatigue for the past 3 years. Houston weather is dreadful in the summer and I have not worn shorts since my 3rd pregnancy due to unsightly varicose veins”. She was treated by Dr. Baltazar with endovenous laser ablation of the saphenous vein (ELAS). This procedure is covered by most insurances and it is done with local anesthesia. “Dr. Baltazar BEFORE AFTER Ulises Baltazar, has given me the self confidence to M.D., FACS, RVT wear shorts again and my summers with patient Sheri Vossos will not be quite as exhausting! I also appreciate his willingness to work with my insurance and give me the best care ever! He did an amazing job and should feel proud that he gives to his patients a renewed sense of self when they look at their legs! He has given my leg new life!” Make you appointment as soon as possible. Insurance companies take up to 4 weeks to approve the procedure. By Helena de la Vega
Ulises Baltazar, M.D., FACS, RVT
Board Certified Vascular Surgeon Graduated from the Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine
FREE Vein Screening Upon Appointment. Call now for your screening appointment.
4660 Sweetwater Blvd, Suite 130 • Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-240-8400 • www.slveins.com www.fortbend
.com • August 2010
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FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE Getting “Back to School Ready” at Richmond Bone & Joint
Little People’s Dentistry … Because Kidz Are People Too! Our practice is a fun place for kids and their families. We offer a child friendly, family friendly, energetic atmosphere where we focus on creating a positive dental experience from start to finish. We want your child to feel comfortable and special that is why we have designed our office to put your child at ease. From the moment your child enters the door, different wonders await them. Will they find Nemo and Dori in the fish tank? What items can they find in the discovery boxes? Or should they skip along the hopscotch into the “Toy Shop” where they will find toys hanging from skateboard-shaped hooks. Maybe, the silly carnival funhouse mirror will cause great laughter or the clown that blows real balloons. From the flat screen T.V.’s in every room to our playstation
towers we have something to amuse kidz of every age. Dr. Bianca, “The Little People’s Dentist”, and her staff work with happy little smiles and their parents, helping children develop good oral habits at an early age, so that one day they will have healthy big smiles. We want to make your child’s visit to the dentist as easy and fun as possible. Every child gets balloons, prizes and stickers! So feel free to contact us with any questions and to schedule your child’s next dental appointment. We are conveniently located at 4706 Riverstone Blvd., Suite 200, Missouri City, TX 77459 (behind Kohl’s in the Offices at Riverstone). Please call Little People’s Dentistry at 281-261-0020 or visit www. littlepeoplesdentistry.com
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As Kids Prepare to Hit the Books……as well as the Field, Court and Track, the RBJC Sports Medicine Team Polishes Health Programs To Ensure Peak Performance As summer winds down, the Richmond Bone & Joint Sports Medicine team of orthopedic physicians, physical therapists and fitness trainers gear up for young athletes. Bringing the latest technology and diagnostic testing to specialized programs designed to keep athletes in peak physical form, the RBJC sports medicine team launches a health initiative unlike any other in the community to improve preventative and post injury care – offering Saturday Sports Medicine Clinics, UIL Sanctioned Athletic Sports Physicals and ImPACT Concussion Testing. Part of the S.T.A.R.S Network of physicians immediately treating injured athletes for a rapid and safe return to sports, the team works to both treat as well as educate athletes on preventing serious injury. Saturday Sports Injury Clinics are held at the Sugar Land and Katy locations and allow young athletes to walk in without an appointment, receive medical attention from an RBJC sports medicine physician (including x-ray and MRI) and physical therapy instruction. The sports medicine specialists then communicate injury status and treatment plan to coaches for the speediest return to activity. The RBJC ImPACT Concussion Test now in use by sports organizers throughout the community puts power in the hands of parents as well, with baseline testing available online. Log onto www.rbjc.com for Saturday clinic times and baseline testing. Or, call (281) 344-1715 to speak with a member of the Sports Medicine Outreach Team and schedule a sports physical.
FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE
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FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE Sugar Land Plastic Surgery John T. Nguyen, MD, FICS www.MyBodySurgeon.com
Today’s Vision The One to See Since 1992, we have helped thousands of Fort Bend County residents see better through our skills in therapeutic and pediatric optometry, medical emergencies, medications for the eyes and visual skills and training.. We even co-manage laser and other types of refractive and cataract surgery. We are independent optometrists with 39 years combined experience. At Today’s Vision Sugar Land you will experience a caring environment where our doctors and staff take the time to listen to your needs and concerns. Dr. Tom Arnold can diagnose and treat a variety of eye problems,
including eye injuries, eye infections, Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), eye allergies and dry eye. As a pediatric optometrist and mother of two small children, Dr. Melissa Moeller understands first-hand the value of early vision development, pediatric eye exams and conditions such as amblyopia (lazy eye). Select from our stock of hundreds of the latest styles of fashion frames from the leading manufacturers. Today’s Vision Sugar Land offers eyeglasses for almost any budget. We look forward to seeing you and your family soon.
Thomas P. Arnold, OD Melissa C. Moeller, OD and Associates Therapeutic and Pediatric Optometrists 15337 Southwest Frwy. Sugar Land, TX 77478 Williams Trace @ Hwy 59
281-242-2020
www.2020sugarland.com
Frank Lee, OD Mary Ghoubrial, OD, and Uyen Tran, OD
Therapeutic and Pediatric Optometrists 8817 Hwy 6 Ste 100 Missouri City, TX 77459
Sienna Parkway @ Hwy 6
281-416-2010
www.todaysvision.com
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Born in Saigon, Vietnam, Dr. Nguyen and his family immigrated to the United States seeking a better life. Growing up in Houston, Dr. Nguyen attended Westfield High School and excelled academically and in extracurricular activities. He ran track and field, played tennis, and discovered his talent in art. Dr. Nguyen attended college at Baylor University graduating with a major in Biology and a minor in Chemistry. He attended medical school at The University of Texas Medical School in Houston and soon discovered his love for anatomy and talent for performing technically challenging tasks. Naturally, Dr. Nguyen chose General Surgery for his residency, one of the most challenging of all residencies. He fully completed his General Surgery residency at St. Joseph Medical Center and earned his board certification in General Surgery by the American Board of Surgery. Dr. Nguyen completed his residency in Plastic Surgery at The Methodist Hospital. His extensive operative experience and training has fully prepared him to offer his patients the latest surgical choices in Plastic Surgery performed safely and conscientiously. As a plastic surgeon, he believes that surgical and non-surgical enhancements should not alter the qualities that make each patient unique but rather highlight the beauty that exists in each individual. At Sugar Land Plastic Surgery, Dr. Nguyen and his staff work closely with patients to individualize each treatment plan. Additionally, safety and patient education is one of their highest priorities. Dr. Nguyen now serves the communities in his hometown of Houston and Sugar Land. www.MyBodySurgeon.com, or call 281-980-8000.
FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE
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FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE
JAVÃNI Med Spa – A Wellness Model
At JAVÃNI Med Spa, Dr. Afreen Pappa works personally with clients on wellness and aesthetic plans to help them live their best life ever. Wellness is defined as “the quality or state of being in good health especially as an actively sought goal” and does not occur without a conscious and consistent effort. Using principles based on Anti-Aging and Functional Medicine, Dr. Pappa works with clients to correct the cause of symptoms and illness through integrative and innovative methods reducing the risks of developing chronic degenerative illnesses that steal both the quality and years of life from so many individuals. Complaints associated with menopause, andropause, thyroid dysfunction, excess weight, adrenal fatigue and undiagnosed food sensitivities are the main reasons
our clients seek assistance. Wellness checkups as part of an overall prevention program have also become popular as many clients seek a more proactive approach to their health care. Having spent her 15 year medical career working in both private practice and in academia at Baylor College of Medicine prior to opening JAVÃNI Med Spa, Dr. Pappa has seen a large share of both acute and chronic illnesses. At JAVÃNI Med Spa our strongest desire is that the current approach to health care will move to a wellness model in the coming years and that our society as a whole will benefit. If you are looking to make the most out of the best years of your life, call us at 281.491.1151 to learn more about our approach to wellness.
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Do Something Good for Your Health: Let Memorial Hermann Help You Establish a Medical Home with a Primary Care Physician
When you’re sick, you need and want a doctor who specializes in you. You need a doctor who looks at the whole you. You need a doctor who can see your documented medical history, recognize your specific healthcare needs and tailor your treatment accordingly. When you’re well, a doctor who knows all about you is just as essential to helping you stay well through preventive healthcare measures. There’s no comparison to the comprehensive care that a primary care physician (PCP) provides. In fact, recent studies show that having a PCP can lead to drastically reduced medical expenses and, more importantly, an improved quality of life. PCPs regularly check important measures of your health, like cholesterol, blood pressure and body mass index. They also make sure you get the right preventive healthcare tests and screenings that are appropriate for your age and medical condition. By establishing a relationship with a PCP, you can receive personalized, coordinated care for all stages of your life. And, if you need specialists or other medical services, your PCP can provide referrals and serve as the centralized base for all of your care. At Memorial Hermann, we believe everyone should have a medical home with a primary care physician to coordinate their medical care. If you need help establishing a medical home with a PCP, please call us at 713.222.CARE (2273). If you prefer to conduct an online search, visit memorialhermann. org and choose the “Quick Physician Finder” at the top right of the page. Now, Memorial Hermann makes it easier than ever to establish your medical home with a PCP.
FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE
Greater Houston Pain Consultants There is no place in life for a life in pain.
Living with pain is daunting and inhibiting, and Greater Houston Pain Consultants, GHPC, are dedicated to compassionate care. Dr. Ioannis Skaribas understands the restrictions your pain can have on you, and he is committed to improving your quality of life. Dr. Skaribas and his staff evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients with any type of chronic pain: back pain, headaches, pain after surgery, and pain from systemic diseases such as Diabetes, Lupus or Fibromyalgia. Our mission is to listen with a sympathetic ear to all of your medical history, and then take a multi-disciplinary approach to relieving your pain. Dr. Skaribas has been serving his patients with state-of-the-art care in comprehensive pain treatments. An expert in pain management, Dr. Skaribas regularly participates in peer to peer education and training of the safest and most effective treatments for pain. His expertise has lead to a dramatic upswing in the quality of life for many patients through various therapies and modalities, not just medication and injections. Our goals are to care for the patient and to 1. Treat the source of pain 2. Give our patients a personalized pain management plan specific to their condition 3. Promote healthy activities and preventative care 4. Return patients to the most functional and productive lifestyle possible 5. Coordinate multidisciplinary approaches 6. Provide cost effective care and minimize reliance on health care resources Please contact us if you are suffering from pain. www.fortbend
.com • August 2010
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FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE Twenty One Years of Continuous Optometric Care-Expanded New Location
Dr. Wedemeyer has been providing personal and quality care to her patients in Missouri City for the last 21 years. Dr. Ring, a therapeutic optometrist has been her associate for the last 10 years. Dr. Wedemeyer, is an optometric glaucoma specialist. The State of Texas issues that license to doctors who have completed many hours of continuing education in the area of glaucoma diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Wedemeyer has all of the latest equipment available to accurately diagnose, treat, and monitor the progression of glaucoma and macular degeneration, two of the leading causes of blindness in the senior community. Dr. Wedemeyer is a board certified provider of specialty care for children with visually related learning disabilities and ocular efficiency problems.
Mental Health Programs Hard Hit by Proposed Budget Cuts
Children whose visual perceptual or eye efficiency skills are delayed will have reading disabilities and perform in school beneath their intellectual ability. She and her therapist have been helping children in elementary school through college level get the help they need to become better students and receive many of the classroom and testing modifications needed to perform to the best of their ability. Dr. Wedemeyer, a contact lens wearer herself, is always up on the latest technology in contact lenses and glasses. Her staff keeps her office filled with the latest designer collection of frames. Dr. Wedemeyer, Dr. Ring, and their staff invite you to drop in and see the new office and check out their eye glass frame selections. Please call for an appointment at 281-499-2600.
Elissa R. Wedemeyer O.D., FCOVD, FAAO
Therapeutic/Optometric Glaucoma Specialist Board Certified in Vision Therapy Reading/Visual Skills Program For the past 21 years, Dr. Wedemeyer has been dedicated to providing the best possible care to every patient, and places a strong emphasis on individual attention and quality time to meet patient needs. • Medical Management of Eye Diseases • Children’s Visual Perceptual Testing and Therapy • Co-Management of Laser Surgery • Contact Lenses • Complete Line of Fashion & Professional Frames • SPORTS WEAR: Swimming Goggles, Sunglasses & High Tech Sports Glasses
281-499-2600
6026 Hwy. 6 • Missouri City, TX 77459 • www.drwedemeyer.com fort bend
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The Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has outlined a nearly $ 90 million cut to the state’s 39 publicly supported community mental health centers, which provide low-cost psychiatric care for poor or uninsured people. Texana Center, headquartered in Rosenberg, is one of the largest of these community mental health centers and will certainly feel the effects from these proposed cuts if implemented. It is estimated that as many as 350 people who currently receive services could lose that opportunity. Cuts would force Texana to start a waiting list for treatment and would most likely result in more people being seen in the local emergency rooms and local jails. According to a state directed, independent evaluation conducted by Texas A & M University, the investment made by state leaders in the crisis mental health system and expanded access to community-based alternatives has more than paid for itself by reducing demand on higher cost systems which include hospitals. “Cutting mental health services won’t save money in the long run. People with serious, untreated psychiatric illnesses will end up in the criminal justice system or in our hospitals, which is far more costly than the treatment received at community mental health centers”, commented Shena Timberlake, Director of Behavioral Healthcare Services at Texana Center. It is a fact that Texas has nearly eight times as many people with serious mental illness in prison as it does in psychiatric hospitals which is why the proposed cuts which include $44 million cut from five psychiatric hospitals eliminating 183 beds affects everyone in the community. Austin State Hospital with its 239 beds currently serves a 38 county region including Fort Bend County and the other five counties served by Texana , and there are no psychiatric hospital beds anywhere in the six county region. Part of the DSHS
FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE
proposed budget cuts include a 12% reduction in State Hospital psychiatric beds which translates to 24 fewer beds at Austin State Hospital. There is little doubt that this would have a damaging effect on mental health services and local communities’ handling of people experiencing a mental health crisis. Timberlake commented, “The earlier we can make a difference in the cycle of mental illness, the better it is for people and the better it is in terms of cost to government. A cut in services of this magnitude will set the mental health system back a long way. This is of particular concern to Fort Bend County as it is one of the fastest growing counties in the nation. However, we are confident our state leaders will ultimately recognize that reducing access to mental health services will have a detrimental effect on the health and well-being of our communities and the citizens of our state.” As a result of the smart investments in mental health services previously made by state leaders, the Community Centers of Texas are in a far better position to respond earlier to mental health crisis, deliver lower cost services, support people toward recovery and ensure best use of taxpayer resources by keeping Texans with serious mental illness out of emergency rooms and the criminal justice system. These cuts would undo a large part of this progress toward better treatment. If ever there were a time to tap the state’s rainy day fund and help all Texans weather this storm—our friends, neighbors and loved ones alike—this is the time! Texana Center is a 501(c) 3 public, not for profit, organization that provides behavioral healthcare and developmental disabilities services to residents of a six county area that includes Austin, Colorado, Fort Bend, Matagorda, Waller and Wharton Counties. Texana Center has its headquarters in Rosenberg in Fort Bend County. Texana serves about 4,000 clients per month in its array of service programs that are located in each of the six counties, covering about 6,000 square miles.
Making Cancer History® in Sugar Land • • • • •
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FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE
David W. Powell, M.D. Dermatology
Methodist Sugar Land Hospital welcomes Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates
Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is proud to announce a new affiliation with Jeffrey A. Jackson, M.D., and M. Faisal Khan, M.D., who have joined Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates. Dr. Jackson specializes in tertiarylevel neurologic care and neurophysiology services, and has been in practice in Sugar Land since 1995. Early in his career, he was selected by Baylor College of Medicine to help lead the installation of the first MRI machine in Texas. He also served on the board of the American Society of Neuroimaging and established an independent MRI center that served the Texas Medical Center. He has been on the medical staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital since its inception and Chief of Staff since 2006. Dr. Khan specializes in a wide range of neurological disorders, including epilepsy, stroke, headaches/migraines, sleep apnea and insomnia, movement disorders, carpal tunnel and dementia. He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is a member of the American Academy of Neurology and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. He has recently completed a sleep medicine fellowship at the prestigious Duke University. Most recently, he was Director of the Neurodiagnostic and Sleep Center at Gulf Coast Medical Center in Wharton. Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates is located at 16659 Southwest Freeway, Suite 131 in Sugar Land (Medical Office Building II). To schedule an appointment with either Dr. Jackson or Dr. Khan, call 281-4946387. See Ads on pages 21, 43, and Back Cover.
Dr. David Powell, a board certified dermatologist, has opened a new practice in Sugar Land providing medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology services. Dr. Powell and his staff are dedicated to providing individualized care to help you feel better about your skin, hair or nails. The practice offers a full range of services including detection, analysis, and treatment of various skin conditions, both medically necessary and cosmetically elected. They are experts in treating all age ranges, from infants and teenagers to adults and elderly. Cosmetically, the practice focuses on proven non-surgical cosmetic pro-
cedures such as Botox®, Cosmetic Dermal Fillers, Laser Hair Removal and other Skin Rejuvenating Laser therapies such as Photo Facials and Chemical Peels. Schedule your complimentary consultation with Leigh Smith to discuss which treatments will work best for your concerns and skin type. The practice is located in the Sugar Land Medical Plaza building in the St. Luke’s hospital complex. David W. Powell, M.D. Dermatology 1327 Lake Pointe Parkway, Suite 400 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 Telephone: 281.494.0050 www.powelldermatology.com
The “SOS PROGRAM” Most of you probably have read or heard about the terrible tragedy at the campsite in Arkansas, last month or so, where the rain and rising rivers caused campsites to be washed away and campers were scrambling for their lives. Many lives were lost that terrible evening! One of the rescuers said, “If only we could have heard the campers crying out for help in the dark and rising waters, quite possibly many of those who died could have been saved.” Some of those campers found the next day were close to where the rescuers had been searching, but the rescuers could not see or hear them. We all remember Hurricanes RITA, KATRINA and IKE. None of us want to be caught unprepared as we were
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during those horrible storms. Call Norma at 281-208-4344 today for a free “SOS PRESENTATION”. Who should participate? Companies – Organizations – Churches – Facilities. The SOS Program is dedicated to “saving lives”. The community can be proud of all who participate in helping those in need with SOS. Emergency information and life saving tools will be available to all who attend. Your COMPANY, FACILITY and/or ORGANIZATION will receive a framed SOS Certificate of Completion. Call today, don’t delay. Someone’s life may depend on you! Compliments of Texas State Healthcare. For more information, visit txstatehealthcare.com.
FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE
We understand that there are two main reasons why patients visit a dermatologist. The first reason is to treat a problem and the second reason is to look and feel better about you and your hair, skin or nails. We also understand that with so many choices and claims of “miracle fixes”, addressing your concerns can be overwhelming, to say the least. It is our job to guide you through the process of addressing your concerns – medical, cosmetic or all the in-betweens.
Our Services: 1327 Lake Pointe Parkway, Ste. 400 Sugar Land, TX 77478
• Skin Cancer detection and prevention • Acne • Rosacea • Eczema and Psoriasis • Hair Loss • Warts • Infection(s) of the skin, hair and nails • Rashes
Located in the M.D. Anderson Medical Plaza Building in the St. Luke’s Hospital complex
Most major insurances accepted for clinical diagnosis.
• Sun Damage • Laser Hair Removal • Photo Facial Skin Rejuvenation • Acne scar revision • Botox® • Radiesse®, Restylane®, and Juvéderm™ Cosmetic Dermal Fillers • Sun damage
• Sclerotherapy for leg veins • Wrinkles • Skincerity™ - Beauty Sleep Redefined • Chemical Peels
“Hometown Nurses Helping Hometown People” Home Healthcare Services
281.208.4344 • Skilled Nursing • Home Health Aide • Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Speech Therapy • Medical Social Workers • Provider Services • Diabetic Management • Injections • IV Therapy • PT/INR Monitoring • Lab Services – Catheter Care and...
See us at: www.txstatehealthcare.com
Specializing in WOUND CARE
Non-Discrimination Policy: This Agency does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, or age in admission, treatment, or participation in its programs, services and activities, or in employment. www.fortbend
.com • August 2010
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FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE David H. Hildreth MD Having trained many of Houston’s top hand surgeons, orthopedic specialist Dr. David Hildreth is now sought out for his cutting edge treatment of some of the most common as well as specialized hand, wrist and elbow injuries and conditions prevalent in our society. Among the first in Houston to offer needle aponeurotomy in the treatment of Dupuytren’s Disease, Dr. Hildreth remains in the forefront of advanced hand, wrist and elbow treatment – now also offering the XIAFLEX injection treatment to Dupuytren’s sufferers. XIAFLEX is the first FDA-approved non surgical treatment for Dupuytren’s contracture – employing a mixture of proteins to break down collagen and relieve contractures. The recovery time of this outpatient injection procedure is much faster and results are encouraging to orthopedic specialists throughout the United States. An associate professor at Weill Cornell University, Dr. Hildreth is board certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery with Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in Surgery of the Hand. He has lead research studies affecting the treatment options available for hand, wrist and elbow conditions experienced by young athletes and the elderly alike in our active society - and today offers minimally invasive arthroscopy, endoscopic carpal tunnel release, and joint resurfacing and replacement. Dr. Hildreth and his Richmond Bone & Joint colleagues were among the first medical specialists on the ground following the devastating earthquake in Haiti. He is committed to helping improve quality of life in the Fort Bend community and in those less close to home. David H. Hildreth MD Richmond Bone & Joint Clinic www.davidhildrethmd.com (281) 344-1715 /(877) 702-MYMD 15035 SW Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 Near Williams Trace Blvd. Sugar Land * Richmond * Katy fort bend
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FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE Your Foot Questions Answered by Advanced Foot & Ankle Specialists The pain in my heel just won’t go away. What can I do? Heel pain is the most common complaint from my patients. It impacts their ability to exercise and sometimes can cause so much discomfort that they are unable to get out of bed. Treatment for heel pain ranges from simple stretching techniques to surgery. Custom orthotics, physical therapy, injections and medication can also help. For those who have tried everything short of surgery a new treatment called shockwave therapy (EPAT) may be the answer. It is applied in the office using special equipment. It is painless and does not involve downtime or anesthesia. AFAS has the only shockwave therapy unit in Sugar Land. It has a high success rate and my patients have been thrilled to avoid surgery. My toenails are dark and brittle. They look so disgusting I can’t even wear flip-flops. How do I get my beautiful nails back? That’s a great question and another example of how I apply cutting-edge technology to revolutionize patient treatment. Your discoloration is likely a symptom of a fungal infection of the toenail, also known as onychomycosis. The disease is characterized by a thickening of the toenail plate, debris under the toenail, a lifting of the leading edge of the nail, a change in nail color and occasionally an odor. Patients complain that toenail fungus is ugly and embarrassing. This condition is often ignored because the infection can be present for years without causing any pain. If ignored, the infection can spread to other toenails, the skin of the feet (ringworm) and even the fingernails. Traditional treatments for fungal nails included topical medications, oral agents (pills) or surgical removal of the nail plate. The topical medications were largely ineffective, and pills may cause liver damage. Removal of the nail was painful and debilitating. Now a patented laser is specially designed to shine through your toenail and destroy the specific pathogens embedded in and under your nail causing the infection. It is painless, highly effective and has no side effects. AFAS is proud to be one of the few physicians in the area to offer this technology. Call AFAS for a no obligation consultation (713) 772-3338 (FEET).
Informed Patients Choose Board Certified Podiatrist
DR. Y BRYAN LEE For All Their Foot Health Needs We Are Pleased To Announce We Now Offer...
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(281) 242-FEET (3338)
Locations in Sugar Land & Southwest Houston
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FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE A Unique and Life Changing Experience Are you sick and tired of feeling sick? Are you tired of doctors calling you crazy or not addressing all of your needs? Are you fed up with taking medication after medication without any benefit? Dr. Osborne and Town Center Wellness may be the answer to your prayers. The average health care practitioner spends very little time with his/her patients. This poses a serious problem for those seeking medical help. A 45 minute office visit to the doctor that includes only 5 minutes with the doctor and 40 minutes waiting is dangerous to your health. At Town Center Wellness, Dr. Osborne spends quality time with each patient without rushing anyone through. A Holistic Functional Medicine Approach Functional diagnostic medicine utilizes cutting edge laboratory testing, meticulous patient examination, and comprehensive history taking to evaluate and treat patients as individuals not as disease states. Functional diagnostic medicine is the future of the health care industry, unfortunately for many, it is not the present. Dr. Osborne has treated patients from around the globe including Brazil, the Netherlands, Puerto Rico, England, France, and South Africa. He has been featured on Fox News multiple times as an expert on food allergies, gluten sensitivity, and nutrition. He is the host of Alternatives for Health and Wellness, the Executive Director for the American Clinical Board of Nutrition, and the founder of www. GlutenFreeSociety.org. You can contact our office @ 281-240-2229 or on the web www. TownCenterWellness.com See Ad on page 18.
Keeping Texans Beautiful Timeless Plastic Surgery- Peter Chang, M.D. Dr. Peter Chang holds two Ivy League degrees and two doctorate degrees. He has specialized training in facial surgery and is considered one of the most educated and well-trained plastic surgeons in the area. “I have committed over fifteen years to training and education to become the best plastic surgeon for my patients.” His PASSIONATE pursuit of perfection and his genuine compassion for patients set him apart and make him the ideal cosmetic plastic surgeon. Dr. Chang’s goal is to offer his patients beautiful and natural results which are truly “timeless.” His vision is to build a CONCIERGE type of practice that caters to each patient and his/her individual needs. At Timeless Plastic Surgery, our patients always come first. Having breast surgery is a personal and intimate decision. Whether it is
a breast augmentation or breast lift the change in size and shape of your breasts will significantly alter your image and boost your confidence. Rest assured that Dr. Chang is an experienced cosmetic breast surgeon. He obtains great results using refined techniques developed over many years. Dr. Chang also treats men for gynecomastia by performing male breast reduction. Habiendo tenido mi cirugía me ha dado un empujo mayor en mi confidance. ¡Adoro mis nuevos senos y cuerpo!! Recomendaría a Dr. Chang y su personal a todos, su atención los detalles y los pacientes es excepcional, se Distingue sobre todos. Mi marido y yo adoramos mi nueva figura. Gracias Dr. Chang. Call Timeless Plastic Surgery now at 281-242-TIME (8463) www.TimelessPlasticSurgery.com
Greg A Linney, D.D.S., Inc. Patient care and customer service are what set the office of Dr. Greg Linney’s practice apart from other dental offices - their key priority is your long-term dental health. Their spacious high-tech facility utilizes the latest tools and technology to provide you with the best oral health care possible. They take the time required
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to assess your oral health status and listen to your concerns. Adults and children are both welcome and able to benefit from the comprehensive range of care offered by their highly trained team. For more information or to set an appointment, call 281-980-1733. Visit our website at www.drlinney.com.
FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE
Keeping Texans Beautiful 30% OFF on Select Procedures (limited time offer) Botox $8/unit (while supplies last) exclusively at
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Come in for a Complimentary Digital Make-Over. Ask about our monthly special!
4660 Sweetwater Blvd., Ste 230, Sugar Land, Tx 77479 office@drlinney.com • www.drlinney.com
281-980-1733 All Major Credit Cards Accepted
*Tooth contouring may be necessary. Individual cases may vary. www.fortbend
.com • August 2010
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FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE Eye Trends @ Town Square With all the preparation that sends students back to the classroom, do not overlook one of the most important; your child’s vision and ocular health. Screening tests performed in elementary school are subjective tests that can not replace an eye exam. In comparison, a thorough eye exam by a professional, tests for depth perception, peripheral vision, astigmatism and eye health. Studies have linked falling grades and poor behavior in some students to decreased visual acuity. Children who squint or frown when looking at objects, rub their eyes, hold printed material at an unusual position may also be having trouble seeing. Vision problems are also likely when children complain of headaches, double vision, eye pain, burning or itching. The most common eye condition in children is refractive error, which indicates a need for glasses or contact lenses to achieve clear vision. Refractive errors include nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. Eye alignment which is
essential to develop normal depth perception and accommodation is also addressed as part of the comprehensive eye examination. As an important safety factor, polycarbonate lenses, which are impact resistant, are always recommended. National panels require these safety lenses for children sixteen and under, especially for those in sports. Protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays can be easily added as transition lenses. Studies have shown that eye sun damage starts as early as exposure. Blocking harmful ultraviolet light can pay off for years down the road as we avoid the formation of yellow fibrous tissue on the white part of the eye as well as cataracts, dry eyes, etc. In summary, an ounce of protection is better than a ton of treatment. Correct your child’s eyes, protect them and give them the tools for success. For all eye care needs, call 281-265-2000. By: Dr. Dana Howard, Eye Trends @ Town Square
EYE TRENDS @ Town Square
The Address for Exclusive Eyewear
Dr. George N. Zaibaq & Associates Therapeutic Optometrists and Optometric Glaucoma Specialists
281-265-2000
www.Eyetrendstownsquare.com
16200 City Walk Sugar Land, Texas 77479 We accept most medical & vision insurances
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Houston Botox welcomes Karen Randon Karen Randon, is a Licensed Massage Therapist with advanced level skill featuring deep tissue, sports, hot stone, maternity and Swedish. Karen is also a Licensed Esthetician specializing in advanced therapeutic skin care to cope with all skin’s natural imbalances and environmental impurities. She is passionate about skin care and recognizes the vital role healthy skin plays in a person’s overall well being. She has the capability to accurately assess, evaluate and manage the client’s skin status based on sound aesthetic skills and knowledge. Karen has a thorough knowledge of therapeutic skin care products and what should be used for different skin conditions. Up-to-date knowledge of recent skin care procedures and technology. Skills in chemical peels, microdermabrasions, Lipo B injections, body wraps with inch loss, hair removal, body and facial waxing, eyebrow and eyelash tinting and teeth whitening, with a knowledge of Botox, Fillers, Lipodissolve and Sclerotherapy. When life leaves you run-down, your body and your beauty pay the price. Turn back time and let your inner beauty shine through. . . with the personalized skills of Jeannettea Williams, R.N. We offer Botox and fillers, treatments to rejuvenate your skin and improve your appearance. “ We pride ourselves on giving you our honest opinion and undivided, one-on-one attention every time.” Don’t despair. . . you’ve still got time to lose those unwanted pounds. LipoB, also known as the “weight loss shot” will help. No need to spend hundreds of dollars, starving yourself on a 500 calorie diet, or taking diet pills that make you jittery. This “super-cocktail” suppress hunger, increases your energy level, and helps your body shed that unwanted fat! Jeannettea herself has lost 16 pounds by combining this shot twice a week with a healthy lifestyle. To reach Karen for all your skin care needs, please call 281-340-2238, or call 713-309-0803.
FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE
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COMPLIMENTARY INITIAL EXAM
Richmond Gastroenterology Associates Opens New Sugar Land Office Dr. Kumara Peddamatham has been serving the Richmond/Sugar Land community for 25 years and has witnessed much growth within the community. This growth has also been reflected in his practice, thus in September of 2009 he welcomed Nitesh Vachhani, M.D.. With the opening of a new office in Sugar Land at Sugar Land Methodist Professional Building in mid-May, they hope to become more accessible to this growing population. Together in practice, Richmond Gastroenterolgy Associates specializes in colonoscopy, upper endoscopy as well as general gastrointestinal diseases, inflammatory bowel disease, liver disease, and diseases of pancreas and gallbladder. Please contact the office at 281-3429530 to schedule an appointment or to enquire about our available services.
(In the Gallery of Salons at The Fountains)
Kumara S. Peddamatham, M.D. Nitesh Vachhani, M.D. Stacy Meuth, N.P-C Diplomate of American Board of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology
Specializing In
Diagnosis & Treatment: Colon Stomach Liver Colitis Pancreas Hepatitis 26 Years of Service Gall Bladder Diseases Colon Cancer Screening Richmond Prof. Bldg Crohn’s Disease 1601 Main St., Ste 401 • Richmond, TX 77469
281 342-9530 www.fortbend
Methodist Prof. Bldg 3 16605 S.W. Frwy, Ste 435 • Sugar Land, TX 77479
.com • August 2010
Doctor’s Center 4911 Sandhill Dr. • Sugar Land, TX 77479
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FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE Fannin Pediatrics opens their second office in the Sienna Village shopping center Looking for a pediatrician in the Sienna area? Need a physical for your child before school starts? Fannin Pediatrics is please to announce the opening of their second office in the Sienna Village shopping center, at the UT Physicians office building. Fannin Pediatrics is a group of private pediatricians (board certified/eligible) which has been in the Texas Medical Center since 1991. We are happy to be providing pediatric care for children and adolescents (from birth thru high school) in Sienna and surrounding communities. Currently, Dr. Victoria Regan is seeing patients in the morning from 9 - 12noon on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays and on Wednesdays in the afternoon from 2 - 7 pm. Dr. Julia Conlon will be joining us in September and then we will see patients full time, Monday thru Fri-
days. Both physicians will continue to see patients at the Medical Center office as well. A graduate of the University of Texas Medical School at Houston and its pediatric residency program, Dr. Regan founded Fannin Pediatrics. She has been voted one of the top pediatricians in Houston for 10 years. She is board certified in pediatrics and is an active member of the Texas Pediatric Society, the alumni association of her medical school, and is a member of the Medical Executive committee at Memorial Hermann Hospital in the medical center. She has privileges at Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital, Texas Children’s Hospital, The Women’s Hospital and Methodist Hospital (TMC). For more information or to set an appointment, call 713-486-1200.
Fannin Pediatrics, PA P
Victoria L. Regan, MD Angela Chia, MD Steve Alley, MD Julia Conlon, MD Christa Filak, MD
UT Physicians Sienna Village
Texas Medical Center
713.486.1200
713.790.9220
8810 Hwy 6, Suite 100 Missouri City, TX 77459
6400 Fannin, Suite 2110 Houston, TX 77030
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Dr. Amitabh Shukla is board certified in Neurology, Electromyography, Sleep Medicine and Vascular Neurology Are you one of the thousands of Americans who suffer from a disease condition referred to as peripheral neuropathy? Peripheral neuropathy is a disorder of the peripheral nerves characterized by tingling or burning sensation, weakness, muscle aches or cramps, difficulties with balance and at times autonomic nervous system involvement characterized by dizziness, sexual dysfunction or change in blood pressure, especially in the upright position. Peripheral neuropathies have generally a gradual onset and slow progression. A typical description of the tingling and numbness is in a “glove and stocking” fashion that is mainly in the lower legs and distal aspects of the upper extremities. Tingling sensation or burning pain are very common symptoms with peripheral neuropathy predominantly due to involvement of the sensory nerves. However, in advanced cases, motor nerves are also involved where weakness and gait difficulties can also be predominant in the clinical presentation. In many cases, a strong family history is noteworthy; however many other cases may not have any underlying cause contributing to the disease. It is important to have a formal neurological evaluation and a careful search for correctable causes such as diabetes mellitus, renal failure, disorder of thyroid glands, exposure to drugs and toxins or heavy metals, like arsenic, lead, mercury or thallium, industrial solvents or pesticides, vitamin deficiencies or any underlying malignancies or tumors which can also be associated with peripheral neuropathy. Dr. Shukla is board certified in Neurology, Electromyography, Sleep Medicine and Vascular Neurology. Dr. Shukla is Stroke Director at Methodist Hospital Sugar Land and Oak Bend Medical Center, as well as neurology member at Methodist Spine Center. You can reach his office at 281-565-8005, if you need to schedule an appointment.
FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE
Amitabh Shukla, M.D. Board Certified in Adult Neurology, Vascular Neurology, Electromyography and Sleep Medicine.
Sugar Land Rehabilitation Hospital Sugar Land Rehabilitation Hospital, a specialized acute rehabilitation hospital located in the heart of Sugar Land, delivers a comprehensive program of medical, nursing and therapy care to address the complex needs of each patient. Our goal-directed approach tailors treatment to help patients: • restore physical function and enhance the skills needed to perform daily activities • build strength and endurance • improve balance and regain mobility • optimize independence Once admitted to Sugar Land Rehabilitation Hospital, we place you with a board-certified physician who specializes in physical medicine and rehabilitation. Along with our Physiatrist, the following teams of individuals are dedicated to helping you attain your highest level of functioning and independence; Consulting Physicians - manage patients’ complex medical needs. Rehabilitation Nurses - deliver individual and compassionate care plans to each patient. Physical and Occupational therapists - involve patients in an intensive and comprehensive treatment program for a minimum of three hours daily, Increasing the patients overall strength, endurance, flexibility and range of motion. Case Managers - carefully coordinate the individual’s stay, develop realistic expectations for recovery and arrange discharge plans. We invite you to contact our hospital to discuss how our services may assist you or your family member by calling 281-276-7574. Sugar Land Rehabilitation Hospital is located at 1325 Highway 6, Sugar Land, Texas 77478.
S
erving the neurological needs of Sugar Land, Richmond and the surrounding communities, Dr. Amitabh Shukla has over 22 years of experience providing compassionate and comprehensive care as well as specialized evidence-based treatments for a wide-range of neurological conditions and diseases: • Headaches, Chronic Pain and Migraines • Alzheimer’s Dementia and Memory Disorders • Neck and Back Pain • Dizziness • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome • Parkinson’s Disease, Tremors • Polyneuropathy
• Myasthenia Gravis • Stroke, TIA • Sleep Apnea and Snoring • Seizure Disorders • Neuromuscular Disease • Multiple Sclerosis
SERVICES AT BOTH LOCATIONS INCLUDE: • Neurological Consultations • EMG/NCV • EEG, Carotid Ultrasound • Quick appointments to suit patient’s and referring physician’s needs. TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS NEW SUGAR LAND OFFICE
Methodist Professional Building 3 16605 Southwest Freeway, #210 Sugar Land, TX 77479 (281) 565-8005
RICHMOND OFFICE
1601 Main Street, #201 Richmond, TX 77469 (281) 341-1500
Fax: (281) 341-1505 • www.neuroshukla.com
All major insurances and Medicare are accepted. Affiliated with Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, OakBend Medical Center, and St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital.
REBUILDING LIVES
Sugar Land Rehabilitation Hospital
• 50 Beds • All Private Rooms • Vital Stim Therapy • JCAHO Accredited • Medicare Certified
For more information, please call (281) 276-7574 www.slrh.net www.fortbend
Sugar Land Rehabilitation Hospital’s physical inpatient rehabilitation facility is designed to help our patients regain their highest level of function and independence. We are dedicated to providing the care necessary to meet medical, physical, psychological, and social needs in an environment that promotes wellness, confidence, and independence. Our program is a comprehensive inpatient medical rehabilitation program; a place where those who have suffered a disabling illness or injury will find the opportunity to rebuild their lives. We subscribe to an interdisciplinary approach in caring for our patients. This means that everyone on our treatment team works together to ensure that our patients receive the best care and maximized recovery. All of our physicians are Board Certified and we recently had a successful Joint Commission survey. Please call for a tour.
.com • August 2010
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FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE Your dream of building a family will come true Cooper Institute for Advanced Reproductive Medicine offers the cutting edge of infertility treatment, including in-vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic injection of sperm (ICSI), testicular aspiration of sperms (TESE), and has achieved among the highest pregnancy rates. C. James Chuong, M.D., a Board Certified Reproductive Endocrinologist, is the Medical Director and Dr. Lynn Farmer is the IVF Coordinator. Cooper provides the highest level of quality control in embryology laboratories supervised by Dr. Li-Wen Yang, a highly regarded senior embryologist. Recent addition of preimplantation genetics diagnosis (PGD) service allows the embryos to be tested for genetic problems before the pregnancy begins. As its sister facility in New Jersey (www.ccivf. com) led by Dr. Jerome H. Check, a world renowned infertility specialist,
Cooper is specialized in patients with advanced age and high FSH. Cooper has developed an extremely efficient and reasonable cost approach for its IVF services. In addition, if the patient is willing to donate one-half of the eggs from retrieval procedures, an extremely low cost cycle can be arranged as most charges will be paid by those who receive the eggs. To register to receive free e-newsletters and discover how Dr. Chuong and his highly experienced team can make your dream of building families come true, please visit www. cooperinstitutearm.com. To make an appointment, please call (713)-771-9771 for one of three locations: Sugar Land: 16651 Southwest Freeway, Suite 200. • Houston: 7500 Beechnut St., Suite 308, or 6624 Fannin St., Suite 1710. See Ad on Inside back page.
OakBend Medical Center – Growing to Meet Your Needs With two hospital locations and several other physician and specialty locations to serve your family’s healthcare needs, and a continuously expanding scope of services, OakBend Medical center is your community hospital. Recently, OakBend Medical Center received the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Get With The Guidelines® Stroke Gold Plus Performance Achievement Award. At this time, there are only eight Gold Plus rated stroke programs in the region with the closest located in the Houston Medical Center. In addition, OakBend has the only accredited cancer program and advanced trauma program.
At the newly constructed, Williams Way Campus, average wait time to be seen in the Emergency Room is 10 minutes. The philosophy of care at OakBend is to ensure that patients have easy access to physicians in convenient locations. The OakBend Medical Group has practices in Richmond, Rosenberg and Sugar Land with physicians standing by to handle your family’s medical needs at your convenience. To find a doctor call the Physician Referral Line at (281) 341-4900. To learn more about OakBend Medical Center, call (281) 341-3023 or visit www.oakbendmedcenter.org. See Ad on Inside front page.
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magazine • August 2010
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Dr. Shel Wellness and Medical Spa hCG is a medical weight loss program that is proving to be one of the most successful diets in decades. hCG is known as “the pregnancy hormone” and is key along with a very low calorie diet to help you mobilize stubborn fat to help you lose 15-30 pounds a month. Most diets that consist of low calorie intake will prove to be successful in losing weight but you lose valuable lean muscle mass along with fat and often times you gain all the weight back. hCG protects your muscles while also permanently boosting your metabolism so your weight loss is easily maintainable in the future. If you have 15 or more pounds to lose and are tired of yo-yo dieting, then our program is perfect for you. Dr. Shel provides personalized guidance and care to all of our weight loss patients and our team of weight loss experts will guide you through the entire process to ensure you reach your weight loss goals along with providing you with the tools and confidence to keep it off. You can experience weight loss of 15-30 pounds a month along with increased energy, improved overall health, and a new you. Call us today for your complimentary consultation! Dr. Shel Wellness and Medical Spa (281) 313-7435 www.drshel.com See Ad on page 23
FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE
FIGHT CANCER Deadliest Cancer Most Common in Texas Often Lethal, Lung Cancer Is Preventable Texas’ deadliest cancer is also one of the most preventable. According to the Texas Cancer Registry, more Texans will die of lung cancer(some 10,625 citizens by their estimate), than will succumb to colon, breast, and prostate cancers combined. In Fort Bend County, 214 people will die in 2010 from lung cancer. With nearly 9 in 10 lung cancer deaths in the United States attributed to tobacco use, physicians at Texas Oncology stand firmly committed to helping more Texans understand how to reduce their lung-cancer risk. Despite a clear link between lung cancer and tobacco, an estimated 19 percent of Texans continue to smoke. “Lung cancer is the second-leading cause of death in the United States, trailing only heart disease. It kills more people than stroke, chronic lower respiratory diseases, and accidents,” said Dr. Caesar Tin-U, medical oncologist at Texas Oncology–Sugar Land. “Because so many Texans die of lung cancer each year, it is crucial that everyone take steps to reduce their risk. The single most important thing they can do today is to stop smoking.” Along with smoking cessation, limiting exposure to secondhand smoke remains at the top of the list of preventive steps anyone can take. Other steps to take include avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals and fumes, as well as having your home tested for elevated levels of radon, which the EPA says is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers.
Medical Oncology & Hematology Arvind Bhandari, M.D.
Caesar Tin-U, M.D.
Robert Furse, M.D.
Sanjay Sethi, M.D.
Lawrence Foote, M.D.
Meghana Bhandari, M.D.
Gynecologic Oncology
Radiation Oncology
Aparna Kamat, M.D.
Vivek Kavadi, M.D.
Texas Oncology–Sugar Land 1350 First Colony Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77479 Ph. (281) 277-5200
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Podiatrist - Foot Specialist Board Certified
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73
FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE
Houston Med Spa
Houston Med Spa, today’s most unique all encompassing medical spa concept. At Houston Med Spa, we combine the latest medical grade products with relaxing techniques for optimal results in a luxurious, sanitized environment. All at a low cost! Our certified medical team will assess your skin and design a customized treatment program for your best results. We specialize in weight loss, anti-aging, acne, skin tags and scar concerns as well as injectable procedures including Botox, Dysport and fillers. Houston Med Spa is proud to announce that we offer SlimLipo, the latest laser assisted liposuction (lipolysys). This affordable out-patient procedure will leave you slimmer and sexier with lasting re-
St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital
sults. We also offer a doctor monitored diet and food program. Houston Med Spa also uses the most advanced lasers for hair removal and vein treatments and the newest IPL for photo facials and other pigment issues. In addition, we offer a full range of primary care services including well woman exam, men’s health issues, pediatrics and all your urgent care needs. Lab and x-ray are here on-site. Our certified medical team will treat with you with the highest level of respect at Houston Med Spa where your results and comfort level are our top priority. We welcome the opportunity to earn your trust and deliver you the best personalized service in the industry. Call to schedule your appointment. 713-808-9876
• SlimLipo • Laser Hair Removal • Laser Vein Treatments • Photo Facial Treatments • Botox & Dysport • Dermal Fillers • Customized Acne & Anti-Aging Treatments • Men’s Skin Concerns • Skin Tag Removal • Chemical Peels • Epiderm Leveling • Microdermabrasion • Professional Product Lines
Shana Na Burgess, Aesthetician
713-808-9876 fort bend
magazine • August 2010
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October 2010 will mark the second anniversary of the opening of St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital. With the core purpose of delivering excellent Faithful, Loving Care, St. Luke’s has touched the lives of over 60,000 patients since opening the doors and has become an integral provider of healthcare to the residents of Sugar Land and the Fort Bend community. The well-appointed facility provides an array of medical and surgical services, including diagnostic imaging, women’s health, orthopedics, emergency care, heart services and intensive care. With a breadth of medical resources, St. Luke’s is equipped to handle a wide spectrum of patients, from obstetric patients to patients with multi-system problems requiring the expertise of an acute-care facility. The affiliations St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital has with Texas Children’s Hospital and M.D. Anderson Cancer Center provides subspecialty care conveniently located in the community. This distinguishes St. Luke’s from any other hospital in Sugar Land. As the Lake Pointe area is growing with the addition of new homes, restaurants, hotels and shops, so is St. Luke’s. Most recently the hospital acquired endoscopic ultrasound technology for the diagnosis and staging of gastrointestinal cancers. St. Luke’s is the only hospital in the Fort Bend community offering this advanced technology making St. Luke’s a premier hospital for the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases. St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital is located at 1317 Lake Pointe Parkway-U.S. Highway 59 and Highway 6. To learn more about St. Luke’s, please call 281-637-7000 or visit our website at stlukessugarland.com.
FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE Back to School: Has Your Child Had an Eye Exam?
The Benefits of Going to a “Pro” Stuart Rimes, DDS, MS
By Nabila H. Jafri, OD
August is probably one of the busiest months in an optometric practice; and it should be, considering it’s back to school time. Children should start the school year with an updated eye exam and a new prescription if needed to see clearly and perform better in their studies. Most people assume that eye examinations are more important for adults due to an increasing chance of age-related ocular conditions. However, eye exams are just as essential for children. Many people are also unaware of the right age to start taking their kids to the eye doctor. Pediatricians will check the basics of vision development in early years of life. If something unusual is noted, you will be advised to take your child to a specialist. If everything is normal, your child should start having regular eye checkups when they start going to school. In many instances, the child may think how they’re seeing is “normal” since they do not know any better. It is very important to look for signs of squinting which may indicate nearsightedness, closing one eye to read which may be a sign of a lazy eye, or an eye turning in or out which is a sign of a muscle problem. Once your child starts having eye examinations, it’s also vital to bring them back annually because as children grow, so do their eyes, and their prescriptions can change very rapidly. Many vision problems can interfere with learning and therefore it is imperative to rule out a vision problem if your child is having trouble in school. Do not miss the chance of bringing your child in for a comprehensive eye exam. Call Eye Trends Missouri City at 281499-2020 for an appointment today! See Ad on Page 7.
Do you feel self-conscious about your smile? Do you cover your mouth when you talk? A healthy smile is among the top aspects of a person’s appearance that impacts self-esteem. If you are unhappy about the “look” of your smile, you should consult a Prosthodontist. But what is a Prosthodontist? They are experts in the restoration and replacement of teeth – they make smiles look beautiful and function the way that they should. Having this advanced training, Dr. Rimes can improve your appearance by fixing broken, discolored or missing teeth and associated structures. Did you know that some dentists perform reconstructive dental work after just a weekend course on a procedure? You should know Prosthodontists receive an extra three years of intense, formal training beyond dental school. People seeking cosmetic or reconstructive dental work should do research before making a decision in order to ensure proper care. As ADA recognized specialists, Prosthodontists are qualified to offer service in stateof-the-art procedures and techniques, such as: cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, complete and removable partial dentures, replacing lost or loose teeth, special needs of geriatric patients, children born with cleft palate or missing teeth, jaw joint problems (TMD), traumatic injuries, snoring and sleep disorders, and maxillofacial prosthetic procedures such as oral cancer reconstruction and continuing care. If you are considering a change to a healthy smile, please give Dr. Stuart Rimes a call at 281-313-1565.
Doesn’t your smile deserve a specialist’s care?
Replacing missing, discolored teeth!
before
after
Restore your smile with cosmetic dentistry!
People seeking cosmetic or reconstructive dental work should do research before making a decision in order to ensure proper care. As ADA recognized specialists, Prosthodontists are qualified to before after offer service in state-of-the-art procedures and techniques, such Actual Patients as: cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, complete and removable partial dentures, replacing lost or loose teeth, jaw joint CROWNS, IMPLANTS, COSMETIC, RECONSTRUCTIVE DENTISTRY problems (TMD), traumatic injuries, BOARD CERTIFIED PROSTHODONTIST snoring and sleep disorders, oral cancer reconstruction and 15958 CITY WALK, SUITE 230 • SUGAR LAND, TX 77479 continuing care. E-mail: srimes@comcast.net
STUART RIMES, DDS, MS
281-313-1565
www.fortbend
.com • August 2010
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Headliners continued from page 47
$122,000 in Grants Help Local Youth For the sixth year, Fort Bend Cares is making a powerful impact on the charities of Fort Bend County. Eighteen worthy organizations who support disadvantaged children and youth of Fort Bend received a check. An additional $7,000 will be given to another local charity. The total given out this year was $122,000. The grant awards were based on formal requests and were evaluated by a group of 35 local citizens who serve on the grant committee. Jill Curtis said, “We are thrilled to have raised so much money again this year. The people in Fort Bend continue to recognize the needs in our community and they react by contributing generously.” This year’s recipients are Big Brothers/ Big Sisters, Casa de Esperanza de Los Ninos, Child Advocates of Fort Bend, Communities in School, DePelchin Children’s Center, East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry, ESCAPE Family Resource Center, Fort Bend Community Partners Rainbow Room, Fort Bend County Women’s Center, Fort Bend Family Health Center, Fort Bend Lawyers Care, Fort Bend Regional Council on Substance Abuse, Me-
morial Youth Needs Eagles
Hermann Foundation, Parks Ranch, Pooh’s Panda Special Academy, S.I.R.E., Soaring Ministry, and the YMCA of the
Greater Houston Area. Sponsorship and volunteer information is available at www.fortbendcares. org
(Left to right) Ruthanne Mefford - Child Advocates of Ft. Bend, Paul Dewey - Big Brothers Big Sisters, Lidya Osadchey - ESCAPE Family Resource Center, Beth Seime - Soaring Eagles, Robin Susman - Memorial Hermann Foundation, Kristen Schlatre - Communities in Schools, Ron Norsworthy - Ft. Bend Women’s Center, Gladys Brumfield – YMCA, Lynda Wiles - E. Ft. Bnd Human Needs Ministry, Jill Curtis - Ft. Bend Cares, Dick Hogan - Parks Youth Ranch, Michele Harris - Pooh’s Panda Special Needs Academy, Julie Crowe - DePelchin Children’s Center, Tonya Lewis - Ft. Bend Community Partners Rainbow Room, Holly Reyes - Ft. Bend Lawyers CARE, Mary Ann Gardner - Ft. Bend Regional Council on Substance Abuse, Crystal Sherrod - Ft. Bend Family Health Center Photo by Mary Favre & Brenda Perry
Richmond Bone & Joint, Supporting local youth in education On June 16, 2010, Richmond Bone & Joint Clinic hosted a ki, and Jessica.” stated Dr. dinner at Sweetwater Country Tom Rivers, RBJC orthoClub for the RBJC Student Athpedic surgeon and commitletic Trainer Scholarship Award tee member. “Each of these winners and their families. The students had a great backawards are given to high school ground, leadership abilities, seniors who have been active in and experience that we felt their high school sports mediexemplified our scholarship cine program and plan to concriteria.” tinue a career in medicine. This The scholarship commityear, the Scholarship Committee members included Dr. (L-R): RBJC CEO Juliet Breeze, MD, Jessica Pospisil, Manvel HS, Nikki Hogan, tee was honored to award three Willis HS, Hallie Clark, Foster HS, Mike Vara, Athletic Trainer, Sports Medicine Rivers, Dr. Michael Kent, Director. Photo by Brenda Perry/Mary Favre scholarships. Hallie Clark, Fosorthopedic surgeon, RBJC ter High School, Nikki Hogan, C.E.O. Juliet Breeze, M.D., Willis High School, and Jessica Pospito major in Athletic Training, will atCheryl Howard, Director of Marketsil from Manvel High School were the tend the University of Texas at Austin. ing, Lisa Pugh, Physician Liaison, Cale 2010 recipients. Jessica will attend Lamar University Cosper, Athletic Trainer/Graphic DeHallie will attend Sam Houston and is seeking to major in Nursing. sign Director, and Mike Vara, Athletic State University and plans to major in “We could not have found three more Trainer/Sports Medicine Director. Physical Therapy. Nikki, who plans deserving students than Hallie, NikHeadliners continued on page 83
fort bend
magazine • August 2010
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.com • August 2010
77
Make sure early vaccinations are on back-to-school list Trendy new clothes and stylish school supplies may be on the back-to-school list, but don’t forget your children’s immunizations. Schools now prohibit children from attending without the proper immunizations. Tiffany Albritton, M.D., practices family medicine with Memorial Hermann Medical Group, Sugar Land. She said re-
Please contact us for additional information:
Westlake Preparatory Lutheran Academy Phone: 281.341.9910 Fax: 281.341.9915 email: glenngerber@lea-hou.org
L
earning Stages
cent changes have added a second chickenpox vaccination for children entering kindergarten and a meningitis vaccination for students entering seventh grade. “If parents wait until August, it will be difficult to make an appointment for their child’s vaccinations and this could delay school enrollment.” Vaccines help prevent or lessen the se-
PreK 3 & PreK 4 (Full Day) Kindergarten (Full Day) Grades 1, 4, and 5 6th Grade 1st2,–3,5th, NEW Extended care options from 6:30AM-6:00PM Program offerings will expand one grade level per year to include separate Middle School and High School programs.
Infants thru Kindergarten • Full day year round school with limited days closed. • Learning Stages is designed to enhance the children’s social, emotional & intellectual development.
A CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER
At Learning Stages, we are able to offer a full day Kindergarten class that focuses on reading and math skills. A full day program also permits a curriculum that includes science, social studies, health, art, Spanish and music.
281-240-0480 • 12780 South Kirkwood, Stafford, TX 77477 fort bend
magazine • August 2010
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verity of infectious diseases and serve as a public health tool to avert their spread. By injecting a minuscule amount of disease-causing germs into the body, vaccinations help the immune system develop antibodies to fight those diseases. Vaccines are responsible for nearly eradicating many life-threatening illnesses once widespread in the United States. Ironically, this may be one reason some parents don’t get their children immunized. Neetee Gadgil, D.O., also practices family medicine with Memorial Hermann Medical Group, Sugar Land, and holds a master’s degree in public health. She said parents sometimes think their children aren’t at risk of contracting infectious diseases because they haven’t seen diseases like polio or smallpox in their lifetimes. “If we all start thinking that way, diseases that have been nearly eradicated will make a comeback. We must continue vaccinating,” she said. Many vaccine-preventable diseases are, in fact, making a comeback. Among them, the Texas Medical Association names tuberculosis and cholera, and Dr. Gadgil adds pertussis (whooping cough) and polio. For a physician referral, call Memorial Hermann at 713.222.CARE (2273). Continued on page 80
Back to School
NOW ENROLLING FOR Infants • Pre-School
Private Kindergarten After-School Programs!
Free Day Fridays Come see why so many kids love our schools. Join us for a free day in any one of our infant– school age classrooms on Friday, August 6th or Friday, August 13th. Please call and reserve your child’s spot in advance to ensure availability. This promotion is only valid for new students at participating Fort Bend Kids R Kids locations.
New Territory 8202 Homeward Way (281) 494-5437
Waterside Estates/Pecan Grove 2000 Waterside Estates (832) 451-1111
Sugar Land** 246 Fluor Daniel Drive (281) 240-5437
Stafford 12475 Sugar Dale Drive (281) 240-1111
North Sugar Land** 11118 Highway 6 South (281) 575-0011
Sienna Plantation 4401 Sienna Circle (281) 778-3600
Greatwood/Canyon Gate 1250 Crabb River Road (281) 343-5437
Across from Mo. City YMCA** 2850 Colonial Lakes Drive (281) 261-6442
Twin Oaks - Richmond** 17317 Bellaire Boulevard (281) 491-4090
Kids R Kids #1- Katy** 21955 Westheimer Parkway (281) 828-2273
www.KidsRKidsHouston.com EXTENDED HOURS FROM 6:00AM – 6:30PM* With Bus Drop Off and Pick Up at Local Schools *Hours may vary at some schools. Call for details. ** Kindergarten program offered at select schools.
www.fortbend
.com • August 2010
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Continued from page 78
BILL AUSTIN’S
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Academy of Dance
Joint production between the Academy & BBYMT Auditions Sept. 3rd, 4th & 5th Performances Dec. 10 & 11 Dunham Theater
Home to
Broadway Bound Youth Musical Theater Company
The 2010-2011 Studio Recital
Saturday, August 21st, 2010 11:00am - 1:00pm
May 2011 Stafford Centre for the Performing Arts
16215 Lexington Blvd. Sugar Land, Texas 77479
Under New Direction!
Snacks • Treats • Meet & Greet • Studio Tour • Information Purchase Dance Clothes & Shoes • Register for Fall Classes
Come meet the new Studio Director, Monroe Moore
Early Bird Special August 2nd - 14th
$
bbymtdirector@aol.com
Pre-pay in full & receive a
50 discount per family
Dance Trends will be at the studio to purchase and order dance shoes & clothing for the 2010-2011 dance year.
For More Information, Please Call Academy of Dance: 281-565-5327 www.billaustinsgymnastics.com
INTERNATIONAL PREPARATORY SCHOOL www.InternationalPreparatorySchool.com
Integrity, Honesty and Service to Others
Grades Pre K through 8th grade
OPEN HOUSE AUGUST 16, 2010 6PM - 8PM NOW ENROLLING FOR THE 2010 - 2011 SCHOOL YEAR For Entrance Testing and Admission Information, please call: 281-208-1403 or visit us at 1717 Dulles Ave., Missouri City, TX 77459 • Fax 281-208-1426 fort bend
magazine • August 2010
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Don’t let busy schedules compromise healthy lunches It’s the time of year again when the kids get ready to head back to school and the slow-going, lazy days of summer come to an end. Families often fall into a pattern of slowdown during the school break, and it can often take some time to get used to the school morning rush once more. During time-crunched mornings, brown bag lunches sent with children to school may not be packed as diligently and with the healthy foods they should contain. To ensure lunches don’t pay the price of busy schedules, consider these tips. • When doing the weekly or monthly shopping at the grocery store, make a list of nutritious and quickly-prepared lunch foods. Also, think about what dinner foods can be transformed into lunch the next day as leftovers (chicken cutlets can be cut up to top fresh salads). Packaged kids’ lunches from the refrigerated section of the grocery store certainly are convenient, but they may be packing more sodium and calories than a child needs. Instead, stock up on crackers, sandwich rolls, low-calorie, low-sodium lunch meats, pre-cooked low-fat chicken nuggets, and even yogurts for fast and nutritious lunch options. • Variety is the spice of life, and no child wants to go to school with the same old peanut butter and jelly sandwich every day. Find out the child’s favorite foods and always keep the pantry stocked with some of these items. Send him or her to school with interesting things, such as a pita bread shell, tomato sauce and shredContinued on page 82
Prmrs_60722_7.25 x 4.75 - Ad #370 - Opn Hs_THIS AD CAN NOT BE EDITED
AN OPEN HOUSE THAT OPENS DOORS. Primrose School students consistently score above their peers on standardized tests. That’s why so many parents partner with Primrose to build a solid foundation for future success. Join us at our Open House and discover the Primrose difference for yourself. What:
Open House
When:
Saturday, Aug. 14th from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where:
Primrose School of First Colony 4605 Austin Parkway Sugar Land, TX 77479
RSVP:
281.565.2707
www.primrosefirstcolony.com Educational Child Care for Infants through Private Kindergarten and After School Each Primrose School is privately owned and operated. Primrose Schools and The Leader in Educational Child Care are trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2010 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved.
60722_Prmrs_OpnHs_Ad_ID_370.indd 1
DANCE STUDIO
5/18/10 2:43 PM
The YMCA is a great place to be all year! FACILITY MEMBERS RECEIVE SIGNIFICANT DISCOUNTS ON PROGRAMS!
ENJOY FREE WITH YOUR FACILITY MEMBERSHIP: • Wellness Center • Year-round Heated Pool • 3 Gyms and Climbing Wall • Kids in Motion and Teen Boot Camp • 85 Group Fitness Classes including Zumba®, Body Combat™ and Body Step™ • Fitness Orientation and Older Youth Strength Training • Childwatch for ages 6 wks to 12 yrs • Reduced fee on Personal Training Sessions
For more information & • Art • Dance to view our virtual tour visit • Cheer www.ymcahouston.org • Tumbling or register online at • Tennis www.registerymca.org • Musical Theatre • Swim Lessons • Swim Technique Classes • Homeschool Programs • Youth Sports • Tae Kwon Do
Get a Jump on the School Year... Register for After School NOW!
Call or see website for schedule
2010-2011 REGISTRATION August 4th, 18th, 19th, 25th • 4-7pm
281-499-3921
3643 Glenn Lakes Ln., Highway 6 • Missouri City
• Stafford Elementary (ages 3-12) • Stephen F Austin Elementary • Beasley Elementary
• Huggins Elementary • Smith Elementary • Jane Long Elementary • William Velasquez School • T. Pink Elementary • Deaf Smith Elementary • Seguin Elementary (bussed to Pink)
Fort Bend Family YMCA
4433 Cartwright Rd • Missouri City, TX 77459
281-499-9622
Robinsdancestudio.com
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.com • August 2010
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T.W. Davis Family YMCA
911 Thompson Hwy • Richmond, TX 77469
281-341-0791
The Walden School
Continued from page 80
You have high expectations... and so do we. • Infants through Pre-Kindergarten • Private Kindergarten through 1st Grade Transportation to Area Schools Kindergarten through Age 13
Visit us online or call about Fall Registration, Enrichment Programs and Summer Camp
www.rightchoiceforkids.org
16103-A Lexington Blvd. (behind First Colony Mall) • 6:15am - 6:45pm
281-980-0022 • www.thewaldenschool.com
Imagine...
a foundation for the future 2009-2010 built on a rock-solid college School starts August 17 preparatory education.
Grades ApplyPre-K–12 now for
281-263-9142 • www.fbba.org 1250 Seventh Street, Sugar Land, TX 77478 fort bend
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ded cheese for a fast and nutritious pizza. Fruit threaded on a skewer mixed with cheese makes healthy kabobs for students who don’t have access to a microwave or other way to heat lunches. Keep a pitcher of homemade smoothies in the refrigerator so your son or daughter can take a filling shake to school for lunch. Smoothies can be as easy as blending together a banana, a couple of scoops of low-fat vanilla yogurt, frozen berries from the freezer section, and a cup of fruit juice. • Take advantage of school lunches once in a while. Many school districts have revamped their lunch menus in recent years, offering increasingly healthy options for students. For example, in the past year Medford public schools outside of Boston, MA hired a systemwide chef as part of its initiative toward healthier lunches. New recipes have been introduced, the staff has been trained in nutritional cooking, and processed foods have been removed. When time is especially of the essence, send your child to school with a few dollars for cafeteria lunch. Even if you don’t regularly partake in school lunches in your household, it pays to have the lunch menu posted for the days when cafeteria food is your saving grace. Chances are there will be something on the menu that appeals to your grade schooler or even middle schooler. French bread pizza day is always a favorite. • Introduce diverse foods. Chef Ann Cooper doesn’t think the learning process should stop in the cafeteria. “Teach kids about diverse foods by encouraging them to understand and ask questions about what they are eating. Introduce kids to seasonal, regional foods so they will understand that different foods grow at different times of the year,” she says. You may find that other cultures rely on foods that make convenient lunchtime offerings. For example, bagel chips or pita wedges dipped in hummus can be nutritious and a fast lunch for families on the go. • Involve the kids with lunch preparation. There’s no reason why an older, capable child can’t be put in charge of his or her lunch -- freeing up Mom or Dad’s time for other morning tasks. Have a talk about what foods you’d like to see eaten at lunch, and then leave it up to your child to take on the task of lunch preparation. H
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Kids R Kids TeachSmart® Board
Kids R Kids Sugar Land has moved into the future of early learning with the addition of the TeachSmart® Learning System! They are now the only private pre-school in Fort Bend that uses this marvelous technological tool that will have your children learning and interacting in a way that has never been used in Fort Bend before. Technology is now an integral part of life and Kids R Kids Sugar Land owners Lonnie and Sue Hudson fully understand this. Sue said that when Lonnie encountered the 60 inch wide smart screen, “He was like a kid in a candy store.” The screen responds to almost any touch, ranging from hands to tennis balls and uses real pictures in its over 1100 enriching learning activities. The board’s activities cover areas of study like literacy, math, science and social studies and have three levels in each activity, allowing students to be continuously challenged in their learning experience. “I love playing on the Smart Board,” says Sydney Duplant, a kindergartener at Kids R Kids. The new Smart Board based learning will be coordinated by Mr. Hughe, who has a Master’s Degree in Education. “The kids are very intuitive with the Smart Board,” he said proudly. Ms. Thibodeaux, one of the kindergarten teachers says, “It’s an incredibly valuable resource for creating engaging learning experiences.” Visit Kids R Kids Sugar Land at 11118 Highway 6 South, Sugar Land, TX, 77498, or call us at (281) 575-0011. H
Guadalupe
RIVERFRONT DUPLEX Each duplex can accommodate four adults and four children or rent both for groups. More pictures at
RioRatonDuplex.com book at
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832-788-2294
FORT BEND KIDS CHALKBOARD
Sponsored by:
The published photos came from Press Releases submitted to Fort Bend Focus by the schools/organizations of these children.
The 2010-2011 Clements High School Stars Dance Team Officers brought home 4 top awards from the Crowd Pleasers Event. Pictured are Victoria Fortenberry, Taylor Rainosek, Christina Dillon, Harley Guel, Anna Busier. (2nd row) Chelsea Harrison, Lauren Castiglioni, Morgan Davis, Katherine Saunders, Nasim Heydari, and Michelle Barth.
Sugar Creek boys six and under freestyle relay team came in first place against their Stingray opponents. The proud winning Gators are from L-R: Shane Pellegrino, Michael Heredia, Jackson Preng and Justin Buchwalter.
Lamar National 12U All Stars beat out Alvin Monday night in Angleton to take the District 18 Title. They will now advance to the Sectional Tournament in Victoria.
Kevin Stransky of Sugar Land was recently presented his Eagle Scout Award at the Boy Scout Troop 1852 Court of Honor.
Congratulations to all the Cimarron Swordfish Swim Team for giving their best efforts in swimming this season! fort bend
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First Colony Swim Team Qualifies Twelve For Zones Team which travels to Atlanta, Georgia to compete in the Southern Zones Meet. Representing the GULF are 11-12 Girls: Kile Carriger and Alicia Finnigan, 11-12 Boys: Michael Lin and Barrett Roberts, 13-14 Girls: Asia Quentin, Delaney Quattlebaum, Kaitlyn Swinney, Madison Varisco and Heather Yeung, 15 & Over Boys: Antoine Marc, Tony Miller, and Brett Pinfold.
Congratulations to Fort Bend Baptist Academy seventh grade students Kassidi Kaminski and Alexis Elder for receiving a medal from the Duke University TIP program for achieving high scores on college entrance exams. They were also recognized in the Duke TIP Annual 7th Grade Talent Search.
The 2010 First Colony Little League 10U National League All Star team, Blue Blaze was recently named. Standing L to R: Manager Alan Ward, John Nork and Coach David Amundson; Middle Row: Alex Mendiola, Alex Plunkett, Jalen Flowers, Ren Polvado, Matthew Ward, Aidan Skipper; Bottom Row: Alex Amundson, Carter Crispin, Spencer Reitz.
Girl Scout Troop 724 sees bloom of Century Plant at Aquarena Center. The Century Plant blooms only once in their life, the blooming spike is so large and grows so fast that it saps all the resources of the plant, which then dies. (L-R) Caitlin Kuykendall, Julianna Russ, Triona Swanson, Hannah Fasching, Kirtana Jasti, and Kalpana Vaidya
www.fortbend
The Sugar Creek Gators swim team won their first two meets, Austin, Marlos, and Robert proudly display their first place ribbons from the medley relay against the Sharpstown Stingrays. .com • August 2010
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Sugar Land’s newest radio personality
Fort Bend Cares names Executive Director Jim Rice, Chairman of the Fort Bend Cares Board of Directors, announced the appointment of Jill Curtis as the charitable foundation’s first Executive Director. Jill has served on Jill Curtis the Board of Directors since the organization’s inception in 2004 and has chaired the Grant Committee for the past two years. She has volunteered extensively in leadership positions at Fort Bend ISD and numerous non-profit organizations such as Fort Bend Education Foundation, Child Advocates, Alzheimer’s Association, and Habitat for Humanity and with local churches. “I am honored to have been selected as the Foundation’s first Executive Director,” said Curtis “and I look forward to working with our Board of Directors and our committed volunteers in an expanded capacity to serve our community.” Fort Bend Cares was founded six years ago by long time residents of Fort Bend County who sought to assist numerous charitable organizations that were addressing the needs of disadvantaged youth in our county. Grants are provided to nonprofit organizations that support children and youth in areas dealing with physical, health, educational, recreational and emotional needs. Since its origin, Fort Bend Cares has bestowed grants totaling approximately $570,000. Jill has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Hotel Management from Cornell University. She and her husband, Sandy Curtis, an environmental attorney with Chevron, have lived in Sugar Land since 1990. They have two children, Alycia, age 21 and Brian, age 19.
CNN650 Radio Houston welcomes Will Hardee as a regular contributor to their affiliate show “The Price of Business” hosted by, you guessed it, Kevin Price! Every Thursday from 11 - 12 pm Will offers his thoughts on current events, financial markets, and macro-economics. Join us weekly in your car, home or office by tuning into 650 AM or by listening to streaming audio through CNN650.com’s “Listen Live” feature. Segments vary week-to-week, so make sure to join us as Will offers his most current thoughts! If you happen to miss us, archived audio clips are available by visiting our website, www. HardeeInvestmentGroup.com. For further information about the
Will Hardee
financial products and services provided by the Hardee Investment Group, visit www.HardeeInvestmentGroup.com. RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets Corporation, Member NYSE/ FINRA/ SIPC. H
Fort Bend County Ranks 5th in nation for job growth according to CNN/Money Magazine Missouri City Ranks #21 in nation on list of 100 Best Places to Live Fort Bend County, Texas climbs to fifth on a national list of counties who experienced the most job growth over the past nine years, according to CNN/ Money Magazine. The county experienced 55 percent job growth from 20002009. The ranking is part of the magazine’s annual “America’s Best Places to Live” special feature. Fort Bend County ranked sixth on last year’s list. In addition, Missouri City, which is located inside Fort Bend County, comes in at #21 on the publication’s “100 Best Places to Live” list for its affordable homes, low taxes and low crime rate. “Recognitions such as these demonstrate what a great place Fort Bend County is for businesses and families to thrive and grow,” said Jeff Wiley, president of the Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council. “Our strong economy, low tax burden, low crime rate and overall low cost of doing business foster a very favorable business climate for those looking to relocate or start a new business -- thus fort bend
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creating new jobs.” Job opportunities continue to increase in Fort Bend County. Most recently, Money Management International (MMI) announced its relocation to Sugar Land bringing an estimated 350 jobs to the county. According to CNN/Money Magazine the county benefits from Houston’s oil industry with engineering and energy firms like Fluor Corporation, Schlumberger Technology and micro-electronics giant Texas Instruments. Plus, healthcare is another up-and-coming sector for the county as Memorial Hermann Hospital and St. Luke’s Hospital opened new cancer treatment centers in 2009 and Methodist Sugar Land Hospital and Oakbend Medical Center also experienced expansion. Fort Bend County is located in the Houston metropolitan area of southeast Texas. For more information about Fort Bend County, including a complete list of its recognitions, visit www.fortbendcounty.com.
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August 2010 Winner “Ithaca Waterfalls” By Linda Day Congratulations Linda, you’ve earned a $40 gift certificate to a Fort Bend restaurant
ENTER TO WIN Fort Bend Focus Magazine is looking for great amateur photos. Think you have a great shot? Any subject matter will be considered, black and white or color, special effects and/or edited are not necessary. A WINNER EVERY MONTH Each month’s winner receives a $40 gift certificate to a restaurant and the winning photo will be published in our magazine. To claim your prize, call Norma @ 281-690-4242. Runner-up photos may be published in our “Readers’ Photo Album.” NO LIMIT TO ENTRIES To submit a digital photo, e-mail the file to Michael@FortBendFocus. com or send a CD or DVD by mail. Digital photos must be HIGH RESOLUTION at least 300 dpi at actual size of at least 4” x 6”. Please make sure to send some basic information about every
fort bend
photo you submit such as: who, where, when, a title, your name and daytime phone number. To submit a print or digital photo by mail, include your name, telephone number and a stamped self-addressed envelope, if you would like it returned. Fort Bend Focus Magazine Photo Contest 4655 Techniplex Dr. Suite 400, Stafford, TX 77477 By submitting an entry, the photographer gives the Fort Bend Focus Magazine the right to use and publish their photograph. There is no contest deadline.
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M edical F ocus Swing for the Cure with Methodist Sugar Land, Fort Bend Junior Service League Methodist Sugar Land Hospital and the Fort Bend Junior Service League are teaming up to host a new charity golf tournament benefiting the American Cancer Society. Swing for the Cure – presented by EmergiGroup Physician Associates – is scheduled for Monday, Oct. 18, at the Houstonian Golf & Country Club in Richmond. All monies raised will stay in the community to help Fort Bend residents who need assistance in their battle against breast cancer. “Swing for the Cure benefits an excellent cause and we’re proud to be associated as the title sponsor,” says Dr. Jeremy Finkelstein, medical director of EmergiGroup Physician Associates, the physicians who staff Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Emergency Department. “Every day, our doctors are on the front line of medicine here in Fort Bend, but Swing for the Cure gives us an opportunity to help on a different level.” In fact, doctors with EmergiGroup Physician Associates treat more than 40,000 Fort Bend patients a year at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. Throughout the Houston area, the boardcertified emergency room physicians with EmergiGroup handle more than 100,000 cases every year – everything from minor illnesses to life-threatening conditions. “Breast cancer is very prevalent in my family history, as well as my wife’s,” says Dr. Finkelstein. “And over the past few years, we’ve lost several young friends to the disease. When family members and close friends die prematurely – especially those who have children the same age as mine – it affects you. You can’t help but become involved with this important cause.” Tournament organizers have already raised more than $115,000 from sponsors and are hoping for a large turnout of golfers to maximize the amount of aid that
Top row Left to Right: Leena Taneja, Sponsorship Chair; Lowell Stanton, Methodist Sugar Land Hospital CFO; Jeremy Finkelstein, Medical Director of EmergiGroup; Parin Shah, Methodist Sugar Land Hospital ER physician; Scott Rivenes, Medical Director of Methodist Sugar Land Hospital ER; Chris Siebenaler, Methodist Sugar Land Hospital CEO and Kaelyn Stolhand, Logistics Co-Chair. Bottom row Left to Right: Melissa Roca, Finance Chair; Sean Sevy, Logistics Co-Chair; Pam Spencer, President FBJSL; Beth Butler, Director of Community Relations, FBJSL; Lisa Nobles, Logistics CoChair and Pat Hogue, Auction Chair.
can be distributed to local cancer patients. “What makes this tournament different from many breast cancer fund-raisers is that the money will be used to help Fort Bend patients in their fight against breast cancer,” said Leena Taneja, sponsorship chair and director of physician relations at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “In addition to their direct medical expenses, breast cancer patients often incur extra costs related to their condition and in many cases, they can’t work for extended periods of time. Swing for the Cure will help provide assistance where needed to ensure that breast cancer patients don’t have the extra burden of where they can find help.” A heartfelt thank you goes out to the EmergiGroup Physician Associates, along with all of our sponsors which include: Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas, Jay Shenaq, M.D., Kelly Dempsey, M.D., Total Inpatient Services, Consolidated Home Health, Texas Spine & Neurosurgery Center, Houston Radiology Associates, Fort Bend Lifestyles and Homes, CNA Advertising, Gen-Tech Construction, Foot Centers of Texas, Greater Houston Anesthesiology, Priority Integrated Marketing, Templeton Breast Care, Sugar Land Oncology, Healthy Advice Communications, Methodist Sugar www.fortbend
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Land Breast Radiologists, Founders Bank, Chevray Plastic Surgery and Colorectal Surgical Associates. Sponsorship opportunities are still available, auction items are still needed along with monetary donations. To participate or for more information, contact Leena Taneja 281-274-8097 or LTaneja@tmhs.org. H
FIRST robotic colorectal cancer surgery performed at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is once again, pleased to bring Leading Medicine to Fort Bend County. Dr. Bartley Pickron performed the first colorectal cancer robotics case at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. During the last decade minimally invasive surgery has influenced the approach used in a variety of operations, and its use and indications continue to expand. Recently, laparoscopic colectomy for cancer has been utilized for its results in decreased postoperative pain, shorter length of hospitalization, earlier return to normal functioning, and increasing Medical Focus continued on page 90
M edical F ocus
Dr. Candice Burnette joins Richmond Bone & Joint
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demand for laparoscopic surgery from patients. However, colon and rectal cancer surgery can be technically demanding, especially rectal cancer because it is performed in the narrow pelvic cavity. Thus, the surgeon needs advanced technical skills for the laparoscopic rectal resection. A minimally invasive surgical approach used for colon and rectal surgery is robotic surgery, performed on the da Vinci® Surgical System. Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is currently one of only a handful of facilities across the country offering this minimally invasive, state-ofthe-art procedure. Using the da Vinci Surgical System, the surgeon operates while seated comfortably at a console viewing a 3D image of the surgical field. The surgeon’s fingers grasp the master controls below the display, with hands and wrists naturally positioned relative to his or her eyes. The system seamlessly translates the surgeon’s hand, wrist and finger movements into precise, real-time movements of surgical instruments inside the patient. Many surgical procedures performed today using standard laparoscopic technique may be performed more quickly and easily using the da Vinci Surgical System. This is because the da Vinci Surgical System delivers increased clinical capability while maintaining the same “look and feel” of open surgery. Traditional laparoscopy has never become widely applied outside a limited set of routine procedures. Only a select group of highly skilled surgeons routinely attempt complex procedures using a minimally invasive approach. The da Vinci Surgical System finally allows more surgeons to perform complex procedures using a minimally invasive approach – routinely and with confidence. A number of procedures that could not be performed using traditional MIS technologies can now be performed using the da Vinci Surgical System. The advanced feature set and extensive EndoWrist® instrumentation of the da Vinci Surgical System enable surgeons to perform more procedures through 1-2 cm incisions. By enhancing surgical capabilities, the da Vinci Surgical System helps to improve
Bartley Pickron, M.D.
clinical outcomes and redefine standards of care. Patients may experience the following benefits: reduced trauma to the body, reduced blood loss and need for transfusions, less post-operative pain and discomfort, less risk of infection, shorter hospital stay, faster recovery and return to normal daily activities, and less scarring and improved cosmesis. Da Vinci’s advanced level of technology takes surgery beyond the limits of the human hand. “This acquisition compliments our goal of extending minimally invasive surgery to the broadest possible base of patients,” said Becky Chalupa, Associate Chief Nursing Officer. “It can be used for a multitude of procedures, including, but not limited to: prostatectomy (removal of the prostate), nephrectomy (removal of the kidney), hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), myomectomy (removal of uterine fibroids), coronary artery bypass, mitral valve repair and colorectal surgery.” Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is initially planning to use robotic surgery for gynecological, colorectal and urological surgeries. The robot has created much excitement for many physicians who are looking forward to being part of the robotics team. “The robotics program is a continuation of Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s commitment to bringing the medical center home to Fort Bend County, as well as finding and applying the most precise, most beneficial surgical techniques to put patients on a quicker road to recovery with better outcomes,” said Dr. Pickron. To make an appointment with Dr. Pickron or other specialists using robotics technology, call Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s physician referral line 281-2747500 or visit MethodistSugarLand.com. H fort fort bend bend
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The orthopedic specialists of Richmond Bone & Joint Clinic welcome Dr. Candice Burnette to the team. Fellowship trained in pain medicine and board certified in physical medicine Dr. Candice Burnette and rehabilitation, Dr. Burnette brings the latest technology in her field - broadening the clinic’s comprehensive scope and level of care. Dr. Burnette will focus on interventional pain management of spinal and musculoskeletal disorders, working closely with the RBJC orthopedic specialists and physical therapy team in establishing individualized programs designed to reduce the need for medication and more invasive procedures for both chronic and acute pain. Among the advanced diagnostic and minimally invasive procedures Dr. Burnette offers patients include discography, electromyography, fluoroscopically-guided epidurals, spinal cord stimulation, nerve blocks, and peripheral joint injections. “Over 80 percent of people in our society will experience some type of back pain in their life. The technology today is really preventing the need for long-term medication, facilitating rehabilitation and more precisely addressing both chronic and acute pain,” said Dr. Burnette. “The scope of specialties represented at RBJC ensure that every part of the patient’s recovery and overall well-being is achieved in a cohesive way. I am excited to be part of such a comprehensive orthopedic group,” she added. Dr. Burnette received her medical degree at Meharry Medical School in Norfolk, VA and her Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation residency training at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York. She completed a Pain Medicine Fellowship at Eastern Virginia Medical School in Norfolk. She is a member of the International Spinal Intervention Society and the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Learn more about Dr. Burnette, visit www.rbjc.com. Or, call (281) 344-1715. H
Rev up your engines with ‘Tune Up For Life’ Ladies and gentlemen, rev up your engines and prepare for a morning of classics – from cars to music to men. Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital is hosting “Tune Up for Life” men’s health expo on Saturday, Sept. 11 from 9 a.m. until noon on the grounds of Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, 17500 West Grand Pkwy. Come enjoy 50s and 60s music while viewing classic cars and the newest vehicles from Legacy Ford in Rosenberg. A fueling station will supply free breakfast for all attendees. Men will have the opportunity to tune up their bodies with free health checks that parallel their car care regimen. As part of the event, they can participate in a scheduled maintenance check that includes non-fasting cholesterol and glucose screenings, a
PSA screening, heart check and more. Be sure to pull into these stations during “Tune Up for Life”: • Check Oil for a free blood pressure screening • Chassis Check for an inspection of joints, knees and back • Gas Emission Check to pick up a free colorectal screening kit to test for colorectal cancer at home This fun expo addresses the silent crisis in the health and well-being of men by increasing knowledge about men’s health issues. It also provides a convenient opportunity for men to participate in health screenings that are proven to save lives. “Tune Up for Life” is free, but registration is required to make sure enough fuel and supplies are on hand. To register, please call 713.222.CARE (2273). H
Preparing for Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital’s Tune Up for Life are Patrick Sexton, General Manager, Legacy Ford; Karen ChittyBoe, Marketing Director, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital; Eloise Lucus, Business Relations Manager, Legacy Ford; and William Riley, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital. (Photo by Larry Pullen Photography)
Comprehensive sports physicals offered at no charge by Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital Just watching teen athletes excel in sports, it’s easy to think they are extraordinarily healthy people. Yet, in reality, they can harbor life-threatening cardiovascular conditions. That’s why Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital and its affiliated physicians provide free, comprehensive sports physicals to both private and public school students in Fort Bend County. Terence Chang, M.D., of Physicians at Sugar Creek, is the family medicine/ sports medicine faculty physician who oversees these UIL-required physicals and the many physicians who, like them, volunteer their time to administer them. “Often times, student athletes will have some underlying medical issue that reveals itself only during exercise or sports participation.” said Dr. Chang. “These physicals give us an opportunity to discuss and investigate these issues to ensure that participation is safe for them.”
Going beyond the average physical During the Memorial Hermann Sugar Land sports physicals, important measures such as height and weight, Dr. Terence Chang blood pressure, vision, pulse, and heart are screened and measured. These physicals, which are more comprehensive than most, also include an orthopedistconducted musculoskeletal screening that tests arm and leg strength, knee tracking and more. “The physicals are very professional and thorough,” said Bill Bufton, athletic director and head boys’ basketball coach at Fort Bend Baptist Academy. “Having the orthopedic screening, as well as the regular physical, gives us the confidence that our athletes are checked out in the best way possible.”
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Additionally, if a heart abnormality in detected, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land schedules a next-day visit for the athlete with a hospital-affiliated cardiologist. This provides the athlete with access to advanced screening equipment that can give a more complete cardiovascular report. Memorial Hermann Sugar Land encourages schools to select the time and location of their sports physicals. Generally they take place at the hospital or the school. The hospital does not charge for the physicals, but sports booster clubs often do so in order to raise funds for their programs. Since 2007, more than $20,000 in services has been donated to area schools as part of the Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital Sports Medicine Outreach Program. To learn more about the sports physicals, or other sports medicine programs, please call 281.725.5333. H
M edical F ocus OakBend Medical Center receives Get With The Guidelines Gold Plus Performance Achievement Award OakBend Medical Center has received the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Get With The Guidelines® Stroke Gold Plus Performance Achievement Award. The award recognizes OakBend’s commitment and success in implementing excellent care for stroke patients, according to evidencebased guidelines. To receive the award, OakBend achieved of 85 percent or higher adherence to all Get With The GuidelinesStroke Performance Achievement indicators for two or more consecutive 12-month intervals and achieved 75 percent or higher compliance with six of 10 Get With The Guidelines-Stroke Quality Measures, which are reporting initiatives to measure quality of care. These measures include aggressive use of medications, such as tPA, antithrombotics, anticoagulation therapy, DVT prophylaxis, cholesterol reducing drugs and smoking cessation, all aimed at reducing death and disability and improving the lives of stroke patients. “With a stroke, time lost is brain lost, and the Get With The Guidelines–Stroke
(L – R) Bhavisha Patel, RN, Stroke Coordinator, Jody Jones-Noirot, Senior Vice President and Jackson Street Campus Administrator, Dr. Amitabh Shukla, Stroke Program Medical Director , Peggy Smith, American Heart Association Representative, Sue McCarty, Vice President and Williams Way Campus Administrator
Gold Plus Performance Achievement Award demonstrates OakBend Medical Center’s commitment to being one of the top hospitals in the country for providing aggressive, proven stroke care,” said Jody Jones Noirot, Oak Bend’s Senior Vice President and Jackson Street Campus Hospital Administrator. “We will continue with our focus on providing care that has been shown in the scientific literature to quickly and efficiently treat stroke patients with evidence-based protocols,” “OakBend is to be commended for its commitment to implementing standards of care and protocols for treating stroke patients,” said Lee H. Schwamm, M.D., chair of the Get With The Guidelines National Steering Committee and director of the TeleStroke and Acute Stroke Services at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. “The full implementation of acute care and secondary prevention recommendations and guidelines is a critical
step in saving the lives and improving outcomes of stroke patients.” Get With The Guidelines–Stroke uses the “teachable moment,” the time soon after a patient has had a stroke, when they are most likely to listen to and follow their healthcare professionals’ guidance. Studies demonstrate that patients who are taught how to manage their risk factors while still in the hospital reduce their risk of a second heart attack or stroke. Through Get With The Guidelines– Stroke, customized patient education materials are made available at the point of discharge, based on patients’ individual risk profiles. The take-away materials are written in an easy-to-understand format and are available in English and Spanish. In addition, the Get With The Guidelines Patient Management Tool gives healthcare providers access to up-todate cardiovascular and stroke science at the point of care.
Meet Sandra Templeton, MD, FACS Dr. Templeton focuses on diseases and surgery of the breast, specifically the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. Dr. Templeton also treats patients with other Dr. Sandra Templeton types of problems including breast pain, abnormal mammograms, changes in the breast skin, or women who are considered high risk for breast cancer.
Dr. Templeton is a graduate of Baylor University and Baylor college of Medicine. She is certified by the American Board of Surgery, a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and a member of the American Society of Breast Surgeons. Although Dr. Templeton is a native Texan who grew up in the Houston area; she has been involved in the Fort Bend community for the past eight years with her husband and three sons.. It’s Dr. Templeton’s goal to create awareness for women and men about fort bend
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the current technologies and procedures in an environment of compassion and understanding. She considers it a privilege to have patients entrust her with their medical care and allow her to be an integral part of their healthcare journey. Sandra Templeton, MD, FACS 281-494-3000 Methodist Professional Bldg. 2 Southwest Frwy @ Sweetwater www.templetonbreastcare.com H
We’re Fast, Fresh, Fun and Full of Flavor! Pitas • Salads • Flat Baked Pitas
Now Open 15810 Southwest Fwy & Hwy 6 Lake Pointe Village
Sugar Land, TX 77478
281-494-PITA
Focus on Flavor ANTONIA’S • Celebrating our 3rd Anniversary! Come in and enjoy our wine and dinner specials and help us celebrate. Famous for our Awe-inspiring Hospitality and Great Food, our reputation is that we are a family oriented, family run business. This has been “Our Recipe For Success.” As we grow, we continue to stay close to our roots, always grateful for what we have, remembering where we came from. Thank you, for choosing Antonia’s for your dining experience. We appreciate your business. Two locations: Antonia’s Cucina Italiana: 2001 Katy Mills Boulevard, Suite. A, Katy, Texas 77494, call 281-644-6000/Fax: 281-6446001. Antonia’s Italian Cantina: 26281 NW Freeway, Ste 950, Cypress, TX 77429, call 281-256-2796 / Fax: 281-256-2790. www.antonias.us.
List your restaurant here, call 281-690-4242
www.fortbend
(7482)
Dining Guide BLUE FISH HOUSE II – SUSHI & GRILL • A very popular restaurant that has been loved by many customers for 8 years. The sushi is extremely fresh! Fish needs to be fresh at a sushi restaurant, and the fish pieces are the perfect size. The amount of fish a customer gets is very satisfying. The beautiful presentation of the dishes and reasonable prices please our customers. Featuring great vegetarian selections; Tofu is a high protein, low fat energy source. Enjoy a wide selection of tofu dishes made with various vegetables and pick your own topping. Located at the corner of Town Center Blvd. North and Texas Drive in Town Center. Casual dining, simple but chic, a very inviting atmosphereforanyoccasion.Formoreinformationcall281-295-0707orwww.bluefishhouse.com.
Express Lunch Starting from $5.50 Happy Hour, Monday - Saturday, 5:00 - 7:00 PM NAPA GRILLE URBAN WINE BAR Combines a warm, cozy atmosphere, excellent wine variety and an exceptional cuisine to provide the ultimate dining experience. Now open and serving lunch & dinner in Sugar Land, just off 59 and Sugar Creek. Come join us for Happy Hour from 4-6pm, $5 select wines. Enjoy live music every Friday night. Napa Grille Urban Wine Bar is also available for private parties. Mon-Fri 11am11pm Sat 5pm-11pm. 14019 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land, TX. Call 281-2772599. For full menu and daily specials visit www.napagrille.net
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Dining Guide
Focus on Flavor
Dine in these places and tell us what you think. Share your REVIEWS Email: Lisa@fortbendfocus.com
CUPCAKE CAFE • New Owner / New Pastry Chef. Come try our huge cupcakes! We have new as well as our familiar flavors. We serve gourmet sandwiches, soups and salads. We offer special feature foods of the day. We can fill that order for your next special event with our cakes and cupcakes. We are located at 16525 Lexington Blvd., Ste. 160, Sugar Land, Tx. 77479. You can contact us by phone: 281-242-2744. Our hours are: Tues., Wed., Fri. 9AM - 8PM, Thurs. and Sat. 9AM - 6PM, Sun. 11AM-3PM. Closed Mondays.
INDIAN OCEAN • Come to enjoy coastal cuisine with fresh fish all the way from India. Serving North Indian favorites and Tandoor Specialties such as Tandoori Pomfret, Lobster, Kababs, Tikka, and chops as well as unique dishes to Indian Ocean. Try the lunch buffet with selections of fresh seafood for 8.99 on weekdays and 10.99 on weekends. Open for lunch 11 am to 2:30 pm and 5pm to 10pm. Closed Mondays. Located at 3559 Highway 6 in Sugarland. 281-240-0377.
10 % OFF
Lunch or Dinner Expires 8/31/2010
CHEF REY • Known for his amazing gourmet cheesecakes, Chef Rey is always professional and most importantly passionate about every dish he prepares. He pays attention to every detail in preparing a mouth watering meal that is presented with style and class. His dedication is evident with every aspect of ensuring each customer is satisfied. Seeking a new spot that offers American Cuisine with professionalism and style together with an ambience that is exquisitely quaint and personal? Then visit Chef Rey’s, 2865 Dulles Avenue, Missouri City, TX 77459. Call 281-403-2900, visit www. chefreynolds.com. Open Thurs. 5-10, Fri-Sat. 5 -11 and Sun 10-4. Restaurant is available for private parties and catering. Gift Certificates available.
ITALIAN MAID CAFE • ‘Where the locals go!’ Gourmet cuisine, priced affordably in the heart of Historic Downtown Richmond. Owners, Chef Alex Ciocca and sister Lanie Alvarez invite you to a unique dining experience. Try our delightful old world sauces over pasta, thick-crust pizza, zesty house salad dressings, flavorful soups, mouth watering desserts and of course, our great house wine. Perfect for business lunches or a romantic dinner. We serve nightly specials including creatively prepared fish, chicken and beef. Pot Roast on Tuesday night. Located 2 blocks North of the Fort Bend County Courthouse on 300 Morton Street. Call for reservations or for more info at 281-344-8955 or 832-433-0032 for catering. www.italianmaidcafe.com.
DUMAR’S MEDITERRANEAN GRILL • It’s a great new place serving middle eastern favorites with an outdoor patio and some of the friendliest service in town. The owner, Mr. Bashar F. Dumar and his wife, Ilham are natives of the Middle-East and make everything fresh daily. The Kebeh Balls, Hummus, Taboulih, Babaghanouj and Baklava. In addition to a full line of Middle-Eastern groceries, Dumar’s also features fresh feta cheeses, several types of brined Olives, Gyro Sandwiches, Greek Salads and Spinach pies. Now serving Beer & Wine. Also, Party trays available. 4518 Hwy 6, Sugar Land. Mon-Thur 10am8:30pm and Fri-Sat 10am-9:00pm, 281-313-1893.
J & L CAFÉ • “Home of the Best Peach Cobbler in Texas” located at 1110 Texas Parkway in Stafford. Serving a homestyle menu that changes daily! Open Tuesday - Sunday 11am7pm. Call us for our changing menu, 281-4999895.
EXTREME PITA • We’re fast, fresh, fun and full of flavor. In addition, we’re EXTREME when it comes to our commitment to creating a unique product bursting with healthy ingredients. Lunch, dinner and late night menu items include our Extreme Club, Philly Cheese Steak, Grilled Chicken, Gyros and Falafel, all served with your choice of different vegetable varieties served fresh or sautéed to perfection right BUY ANY PITA in front of your eyes. We also offer a variety of great tasting & Get the Flat Baked Pita’s, fresh salads, soups and drinks. Mon-Thur: Combo 11am-10pm, Fri-Sat: 11am-11pm, Sun: Noon-10pm, 15810 for FREE SW Frwy., Sugar Land, (Lake Pointe Village) TX 281-494-7482 fort bend
BUY ONE MEAL, GET A LESSER ONE FOR HALF OFF
Excludes meals $9.95 & up, not valid on Sundays or with other offers. Present this coupon. Exp. 06/3/2011 KABOB CAFE • The warm and cozy Kabob Cafe is located at 4635 Hwy 6, corner of Dulles Ave in Sugar Land. We serve over 10 different Kabobs (wraps and entrees). Our Happy Lunch Hour is Monday - Thursday from 11am-2:30pm, Happy Munch Hour from 2:30pm to 5:00pm, and Family Nights with kids eat free on Mondays and Tuesdays. Check us out on Facebook for specials, and our website, TXkabobcafe.com, for menu and directions. 281-903-7373
Buy one entrée and get
ONE SANDWICH FREE
magazine • August 2010
Not valid with other offers
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Focus on Flavor
Dining Guide
KONA GRILL • Kona Grill puts an exciting twist on American cuisine. We prepare over 40 sauces made from scratch everyday, bringing new excitement to an incredible variety of delicious appetizers and entrees. Try our signature Macadamia Nut Chicken, Sweet-Chili Glazed Salmon or our Kona`s Big Island Meatloaf. We also serve award-winning sushi, hand-crafted daily by talented sushi chefs at our elegant sushi bar. Relax and watch our colorful exotic fish in our mesmerizing 2,000 gallon seawater aquarium. Great selection! Great atmosphere! So whether it`s for lunch, dinner or happy hour, escape to Kona Grill! Happy Hour 3-7pm M-F, Reverse Happy Hour 9-11pm M-Sat, 16535 Southwest Frwy (First Colony), 281-242-7000 www.konagrill.com
POST OAK GRILL RESTAURANT & BAR Since 1989 the Post Oak Grill has been a synonym for the highest quality food & service. Imagination & dedication to excellence brings the subtly delicious flavors to our menus which have maintained the Post Oak Grill as a distinctive destination for the perfect dining experience. The Rios Family of Sugar Land, Texas, invite you to enjoy the same quality, service, freshness and atmosphere that you have come to love at Polo’s original Post Oak Grill. Join us for a wonderful culinary adventure featuring the finest center-cut steaks, chops, fresh seafood and international wine list!” Happy Hour Monday to Friday 4pm ‘til 7pm $2 Wells, $3 Domestic Beer, $5 Featured Wine By The Glass, & Appetizers starting @ $3 • 281.491.2901• PostOakGrillSugarLand.com.
FERNANDO’S RESTAURANT Celebrating 6 years in Sugar Land. Expect the unexpected! DINE AND DANCE ON WEEKENDS (FRIDAY & SATURDAY) LIVE MUSIC. Look for new menu items, new events and new hours. Come celebrate with Fernando and join his VIP list at 14135 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land. For reservations call 281-4949087. Closed on Sundays. Visit www.fernandosrestaurants.com.
RAISING CANE’S • We’re all about ONE LOVE - chicken fingers. Our simple menu focuses on fresh, never frozen chicken tenders, warm, buttery Texas toast, creamy coleslaw and crinkle cut French fries. Our legendary Cane’s sauce is made in-house daily and provides the perfect compliment to our cooked-to-order chicken fingers. Don’t forget a cup of our freshly squeezed lemonade or freshly brewed sweet tea for the road. What are ya...chicken? 1529 HWY 6 in Sugar Land. Sun-Thurs: 10:30am-10:00pm, Fri-Sat: 10:30am-12:00am, Phone: 281-980-9860. Stay connected with us on twitter.com/CanesSugarLand & facebook.com/CanesSugarLand. RAY’S GOURMET COUNTRY •
LA COCINA • Is proud to be serving the Fort Bend Community fine Mexican dishes for 13 years. Since our beginning in Rosenberg in 1997, quality and value has been our motto. At La Cocina we understand that to be successful in the food and beverage business, we have to execute a great product and a great dining experience as well as contribute and support our county. We are proud to say that we have raised over $60,000 for “Meals on Wheels.” We invite you to come try our wonderful and exciting new dishes. Call La Cocina for your next event, to-go or catering is available or reserve our banquet room for any occasion. Don’t miss our Breakfast Sat & Sun 8-12, Happy Hour 11-7 pm. 515 FM 359 in Richmond, 281-238-0872 www.lacocinarestaurant.com
A unique concept of a neighborhood bar and grill with a “field to table” menu specializing in recipes made from the highest quality of seasonal and organic inspired ingredients. Daily Specials and menu selections are created based on the local availability of organic fruits and vegetables, Natural Select meats and wild game and seafood. All seafood is purchased direct and filleted in-house to ensure the freshest quality. The restaurant and bar are available for private parties and a catering menu. Located at 8502 FM 359, Fulshear, TX 77441. Call 281-533-0099, www.raysgrill.com.
MANGOLA’S FINE ITALIAN RESTAURANT Serving fine Italian food, exceptional wines in a romantic atmosphere to Southwest Houston and Fort Bend County for over 20 years. Conveniently located at 11786 S. Wilcrest @ Highway 59 S. Open for Lunch and Dinner 7 Days a week. Check out our website www.mangolasrestaurant.com. Call 281498-6790 for reservations or to schedule your special event.
RED OAK GRILL • What happens when All-American cooking collides with the flavors of the Mediterranean? Answer: Red Oak Grill. A family owned and operated restaurant, this eatery offers diners both down-home comfort foods and a taste of the exotic. What’s more, it does so at prices you’ll find very appetizing. Fresh Salads, Wraps, 1/2-lb. Burgers, Chicken Sandwiches, Chicken Fried Steak... they’re all part of the line up. But so are Gyros, Chicken Shawerma, Shish Kabobs, Beef or Chicken Kabobs and Falafel Platters. To start, sharing appetizers of Hummus, Tabouleh, Stuffed Grape Leaves and Spinach Pie is a must. Save some room, though, because the freshbaked Baklava, Eclairs, Cakes and Cookies are unbelievable! Mon-Sat 10 am- 9 pm, Located at 203 Century Square Blvd, Sugar Land, 281-491-2890, www.redoak-grill.com.
FREE LUNCH OR DINNER ENTREE
(up to $15.00) with the purchase of one entree of equal or lesser value. NAPA GRILLE URBAN WINE BAR Combines a warm, cozy atmosphere, excellent wine variety and an exceptional cuisine to provide the ultimate dining experience. Now open and serving lunch & dinner in Sugar Land, just off 59 and Sugar Creek. Come join us for Happy Hour from 4-6pm, $5 select wines. Enjoy live music every Friday night. Napa Grille Urban Wine Bar is also available for private parties. Mon-Fri 11am11pm Sat 5pm-11pm. 14019 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land, TX. Call 281-2772599. For full menu and daily specials visit www.napagrille.net OLD HICKORY INN BARBECUE • More than 40 years in business in the Houston and Fort Bend area, Old Hickory Inn Barbecue is famous for their Old Fashion Hickory Smoked Barbecue and numerous Homemade Side Dishes, made fresh daily. 3 convenient locations, with a drive-through window at the Hwy 6 location. Open 7 days a week, SundayThursday from 11am-9pm, and Friday & Saturday 11am-9:30pm. 3334 F.M. 1092 @ Hwy 6 Missouri City 281-499-8904 / 8000 Hwy 6 @ Beechnut 281983-5020 / 5427 S. Braeswood @ Chimney Rock 713-723-8908. www.fortbend
List your restaurant here, call 281-690-4242
THE FISH PLACE • Great little seafood place located at 3303 Hwy 6 at Williams Trace. Open MonSat 11am-9:30pm and Sun 11am-8pm. You will find all your Cajun seafood favorites including boudin balls, etouffee, crawfish tails, gumbo and poboys. Grab the popular grilled or fried fish tacos to go, or stay for the All You Can Eat catfish and tenders. Call 281-491-0003.
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Living the Sweet Life:
By Alisa Murray www.AlisaMurray.com Nationally recognized portrait artist and award-winning columnist.
Sisters, we ain’t alike and we like it that way!
S
chool is starting again, and my sister has to explain to her boys why their cousins have to wear those uniforms that are scratchy, buy a bunch of school supplies that are expensive and even leave to go to a school at all. I just roll my eyes. Those cousins are my children, and these conversations begin each year at exactly the same time and all have exactly the same ending. They end with absolutely nothing accomplished but a reinforcement of just how different my sister and I are living our lives despite the fact that our childhoods were the same. I would argue that our childhoods were not the same. Presumably, one would think that we would have similar ideas about most things, but as it turns out, you would be wrong. From my sister’s point of view, part of this disparity between us lies intrinsically in the fact that I moved away from home. Perhaps she is right that since we moved to a large metropolitan city, we (Brian and I) have changed. That we parent with a sense of safety issues ever looming that she simply does not think about (notice I think she might need to but who am I to scare her). That because of the change in locale, we have become more influenced by a wide variety of opportunities making our choices more varied and our level of tolerance for differences immense. Maybe so... My sweet sister has two boys. She lives in a home built in the 1800’s with one bathroom and no central a/c or heat. She has chosen to home school her children and believes the best place for them at all times is either by her side, waking or sleeping, or outside roaming around. She has lots of land for them to wander on and find things. They have bees they keep and yard eggs they pick up that have dropped out of their chickens that roam freely. She crochets and first grinds something before mixing something else that eventually after a whole lot of work, turns into bread. She doesn’t believe that three is too old to breast feed and things like play dough and finger paints should be made and not bought. She will not friend you on Facebook unless she knows you personally, and she will report you if you don’t play nice on those internet video games. She can make homemade cakes and Lord can she garden... from seeds! She does not spank. She, like Nana did, thumps, and both of her children know what it’s like to wear a welt between their eyes just like we did as children. This August will roll in just like any other month and there will be no grand rites of passage to the next school year. Those children will not go out and purchase shiny, new red folders, pencil boxes, and tennis shoes. They will not even know a new school year has started unless you told them so. They are schooled year round and all the time in things called life skills, as my sister calls it. I, of course, have two children also, a girl
Alisa’s Sister Elizabeth and a boy. The public school system was a grave disappointment way back in 2004 and so I won my battle over private education with Brian. Ever since we have made that decision, I had been on a quest to find the best school for our family. After hiring and firing quite a few, we settled into International Preparatory School, and if you read my column in 2009, you’d know just how picky I am about who is watching and teaching my babies. Even though I, like my sister, graduated with honors and certainly have quite a lot of knowledge in various subjects, I can’t fathom having all the necessary knowledge in all of the areas that they need, and I believe that giving them a well-rounded education is part of my charge as their mother. I also know that they are the hardest to photograph because I am their mother, and if that is what I do the very best and even with them it is a struggle for cooperation, then how on earth will they learn anything under my direction... such as spelling and literature and my always dreaded...ughhhh math! Back when they were babies, I learned that each child must be parented differently. Maybe that decision was made by me due to the cross the board spankings we got as children. We knew that when somebody did something wrong and no one wanted to take credit for it, then, we all got a whippin’. Sounds like a Bill Cosby stand-up, but true, none the less. I carefully have figured out what makes each of mine children tick, and although it’s more difficult for sure to pick my battles and discipline, I do not parent either of my children the same because as I explain ad nauseam to my sister, they are not the same. Not only are they not the same people, they are not the same sex. I would argue that because of my parenting style, it is very likely that although my two children are living in the same home, they are not experiencing childhood in the same way. This is the most important point of all... the one I have tried to explain to my sister. This then brings up an old list of injuries we each share as children of how different Nana and Daddy treated us versus our brothers. Honestly, we were all treated differently and were lovingly compartmentalized into who was who’s favorite and who was expected to be what when they grew up. Some of which has left some scars along the fort bend
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way on each of us. The list is long...the list can be recited by us both, and the list is resoundingly unfair as you might expect. That is a subject for my Woman 2 Woman column this month in Focus on Women. Ahh, the one thing that we as sisters can absolutely always agree on! Anyway, back to the differences. I adore my children, and I spend lots of time with them. However, I can not sleep with them and maintain a good quality nights’ sleep nor marital life, ahemmmm. So, as lovely as they are, they must sleep in their own beds. I cannot let my children wander around on our property for fear of drive by snatchings and vicious poisonous snakes. I cannot grind wheat let alone understand why anyone would want to when there’s a plethora of gorgeous, ready-to-eat breads just waiting to be bought at Whole Foods. In addition, my babies know all the specialty cupcakes at Starbucks and can ask for their own Frappacinos. Chocolate cake does not come from a box or from me but from Uncle Bruce at Amici restaurant. A vacation is not defined by a road trip to anywhere that involves staying in a family members’ home. We prefer New York City over Disney. At this point, my sister is rolling her eyes. I never said we were more “refined”.... the tone wasn’t snooty... was it? As for picking up eggs out of my yard...uh I’m thinking that would drive away business from the stench and encourage even more wildlife to trespass on the property. I do not have time to crochet, and although I am the biggest cheerleader for the breastfeeder, being a veteran of that myself, even I draw my line at the age of three. I have over 1,000 “friends” on Facebook, half of which I have never even met but who love my work. She thinks this is super weird and dangerous. I tell her it’s just business! So, you see why and how we get into the circular arguments of parenting and how to spend ones time. I love her and admire that she feels she is living in what she calls “off the grid.” To each his own....right? She is an absolutely fabulous mother, as I am too or so I have been told, but we are as different as night is to day, and perhaps we have always been so. Whether Houston made us different or we were different all along it makes no difference. Our styles of parenting and thoughts about education and how to pass one’s time is equal to the other, not better than one or the other, and thankfully at the end of all these discussions, we always can agree at least on that! It is comforting to have her as she is my only sister. Despite the many differences, there is always compassion and love. And truth be told, my nephew enjoys a really good hotel thanks to his Auntie and has learned how to order some room service while my son has learned how to make homemade play dough and Victoria Ann now knows how to crochet! We are all learning... despite the differences! Take Care of You!
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