AUGUST 2011
Fort Bend’s Finest in Medicine
page 37
Inside: Seen On The Scene page 26
Back To School page 67
Focus Favorites
page 92
Compounding the Answer:
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• ACCREDITED • ENDORSED • EXPERIENCED Shannon Maguadog, Pharm. D. Compounding Specialist/Owner
281-494-7777 • 1730 Williams Trace, Ste. K, Sugar Land
ACCREDITED
www.compoundingcornerpharmacy.com
ENDORSED
American Pharmacists Association
The American College of Apothecaries
The National Community Pharmacists Association
National Alliance of State Pharmacy Associations
The International Academy of Compounding Pharmacists
The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy
The National Home Infusion Association
The United States Pharmacopeia
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Experienced EXPERIENCED
Compounding Corner Pharmacy regularly tests its compounded medications for potency, sterility and endotoxins. View some of our test results and see for yourself!
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AWARD WINNING CARE
OakBend Medical Center is proud to offer award-winning patient services to people throughout the Fort Bend community. With two convenient locations, we guarantee that firstclass care is always within reach. • OakBend is Fort Bend County’s Only Accredited Cancer Center • We received the American Heart Association/ American Stroke Association’s Get With The Guidelines® Stroke Gold Plus Performance Achievement Award • Our Advanced Trauma Care Center (Jackson Street) is equipped to handle everything from minor to life-threatening emergencies • OakBend’s Labor & Delivery Department received the Texas Ten Step Program Award and features a Level II Nursery with 24-hour physician coverage
JACKSON STREET CAMPUS 1705 Jackson Street Richmond, TX 77469 Phone: (281) 341-3000
• Our Respiratory Care Department has ranked in the Top 15% in the U.S. for 5 years running • We offer Advanced Wound Care and Hyperbaric Treatment • Our brand new Grand Parkway location features a full-service Emergency Room, Texas Sports Medicine Institute, and will soon be home to an additional OakBend Medical Group location
WILLIAMS WAY CAMPUS 22003 Southwest Freeway Richmond, TX 77469 (At US Highway 59 and Williams Way Blvd.)
Phone: (281) 341-2000
• Our Senior Care Center is designed especially for older adults experiencing mental, emotional or behavioral problems with 24-hour care available by the Psychologists and Geriatricians on staff These are just a few of the reasons you should choose OakBend Medical Center for your family’s healthcare needs.
PHYSICIAN REFERRAL: (281) 341-4800 www.oakbendmedcenter.org
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If you’re looking for award-winning care, contact OakBend Medical Center today.
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features 22 Golden Girl of Senior Swimming Makes a Splash Former Fort Bend resident Yenny Van Dinter returns to the National Senior Games to take home the gold in not one, but three swimming events.
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37 Fort Bend’s Finest in Medicine
Learn about an array of medical services and providers located in Fort Bend, and find the right fit to meet your medical needs.
37
62 The Jewels of Fort Bend
Meet five exceptional women who will be honored for their dedication to volunteering in the community. These ladies are truly Fort Bend’s treasured gems!
62
67 Back to School
It’s that time of the year again! Get the kiddos ready for another amazing school year with this compilation of Fort Bend schools and extracurricular activities.
67
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www.fortbend
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COVER STORY
14 Compounding the Answer: One Patient at a Time Pharmacist Shannon Maguadog serves Fort Bend’s residents with a precise, customized service pharmaceutical compounding. Maguadog’s passion and knowledge for the field has led him to open the only compounding pharmacy in Fort Bend to earn a PCAB Accreditation - a prestigious qualification for the country’s best compounding facilities.
Departments 18 Focus on Finance
80 Focus Photo Winner
20 Focus on Health
82 Fort Bend Kids Chalkboard
24 Focus Film Review
84 High School Hot Shot
26 Seen on the Scene
86 Business Buzz
28 Fort Bend Headliners
88 Medical Focus
30 Focus Scrapbook
92 Focus Favorites - Resource Guide
35 Focus Cares
94 Focus on Flavor Dining Guide
78 Community Calendar
96 Living the Sweet Life
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ublisher’s Preview www.fortbendfocus.com
August 2011 Vol. 7 No. 10
Hello Fort Bend Friends, What a HOT Summer!! Speaking of hot, we here at Focus Magazines have been on fire, bringing you the very best in Fort Bend County. Now is the time when parents start to get their children ready for school and into a routine. Focus has dedicated a special advertising section to help you get ready to start the new school year. We have compiled some of the best private schools and day cares in Fort Bend County starting on page 67. A must read this month is our “Fort Bend’s Finest in Medicine” special section on page 37. I believe Fort Bend County will soon be known as the Medical Center 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. Our cover story this month takes an in depth look at Compounding Corner Pharmacy – the only pharmacy in Fort Bend County that is accredited by the Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board (PCAB). Our cover story begins on page 14.
4655 Techniplex Dr. Suite 400 Stafford, TX 77477 To advertise call
281-690-4242
TOLL FREE 1-888-430-7469
Michael and Lisa Fredrickson
Single copy $2.95
Don’t miss next month’s issue where we honor the JEWELS of Fort Bend on our cover. Call now – 281.690.4242 – to reserve your tickets to the annual style show and luncheon at Safari Texas. We can’t wait to see you there. Keep emailing us your ideas for cover and feature stories. We love hearing from our readers!
Lisa Fredrickson
Lisa@Fortbendfocus.com Michael@Fortbendfocus.com
MANAGING EDITOR Patti Parish-Kaminski SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jessica Kij ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES April Lambert Norma Cavazos
CONTRIBUTORS Will Hardee Alisa Murray Nick Nicholson Dr. Peter Osborne Brian Simmons Melinda Wood Wayne Chandler Mary Favre Liz Furman ART DIRECTOR Grace Belleza
This teacher remembers, how sweet...
ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR Joey Belleza
Lisa – Thank you for including several pictures and updates on Kathryn in the last few Fort Bend Focus magazines. I was Kathryn’s 3rd grade teacher at OCE for the second half of the year. This was my first permanent teaching job and “KK” help make it a fun few months. Your daughter was a sweet and fun third grader and I enjoy seeing these recent pictures and getting updates on her life.
Scan this QR Code with your smart phone to launch website.
PUBLISHERS Michael Fredrickson Lisa Fredrickson
OFFICE MANAGER Norma Loredo
Stay Focused,
READERS FEEDBACK
Kathryn Kluge’s third grade OCE teacher Sandy Jordan with her twin daughters Allison and Madeline. Thanks for sharing your family with us, Sandy, and it was great hearing from you!
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.
Thank you for a fantastic magazine and sharing about your family. Sandy Jordan
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Elizabeth Pace WEB DESIGNER Joey Belleza (JOBpagegraphics.com)
ON
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COVER
Shannon Maguadog, Pharm. D.
PHOTO BY Nesossi Studios
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The views and opinions expressed by our advertisers and columnists do not necessarily reflect those of the publishers and their staff.
Ticket giveaways to area attractions and events.
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Meet the JEWELS of Fort Bend
Joyous, Extraordinary Women Enriching Lives
Cari Middaugh Pat Hebert
Doris Gurecky
Judy Schmid
proudly announces the 2011
Lucia Street
Luncheon & Style Show
Safari Texas Ranch BENEFITING
The Literacy Council of Fort Bend County
Thursday, September Twenty Two, Two Thousand and Eleven 11:30 am - 1:30 pm Safari Texas Ranch ◆ 11627 FM 1464 ◆ Richmond, Texas
MISTRESS OF CEREMONIES
Nancy Olson
Special Thanks to Our Official Jewels Contributors Alisa Murray Photography - Official Photographer J Loggins Jewelers - Official Jeweler Pamela Printing - Official Printer
Safari Texas Ranch - Official Venue Salon Eben & Day Spa - Official Salon May W. Tape, D.D.S. - Official Entertainment Sponsor
Tickets & Sponsorship Opportunities ◆ 281-690-4242 or www.FortBendFocus.com
Texas Direct Auto Along with HISD Shows Students it is “Cool to be Smart” Texas Direct Auto, the nations largest independent car dealership, continues to show their community involvement by donating a car for the HISD’s “Cool to be Smart” recognition program. The program, just launched in April, is designed to show it is “Cool to be Smart “ by encouraging more students to take Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses. To reward the students’ efforts, HISD will give away a car, as well as college scholarships, laptop computers and other prizes. Texas Direct Auto will be providing a car to be awarded at a special ceremony this month. Jessica DeMarr, Director of Business Development, states, “We are excited for the opportunity to assist in motivating these young adults in excelling to their highest potential. Not only is it ‘cool to be smart’ but these classes are an investment in their academic careers. It shows them that true reward can come with dedication and hard work instilling a sense of pride and accomplishment once completing a course.” To be eligible for the drawing of the car, students must have graduated in 2011, and earned a 3 or higher on at least 5 AP exams, a 4 or higher on at least 5 IB exams, or a combination of both. HISD had approximately 9,000 students enrolled in these courses in 2011 with 21,861 exams taken. In 2010, 16,556 exams were taken with about 40% scoring at least a 3. HISD hopes to continue to substantially increase these numbers with the new incentive program and the exams now provided at no cost to the students. According to Superintendent of Schools Terry B. Grier, by giving incentives, HISD is encouraging their students to take rigorous
courses such as the AP and IB to be better prepared for higher education and wants students to know it is “Cool to be Smart.” Students who score high enough to receive college credit on 5 AP or IB exams could possibly enter college with a semester of classes already accomplished. “Houston ISD is very grateful to Texas Direct Auto for supporting our efforts in ensuring that HISD students receive rigorous instruction. This generous donation will provide one qualified student the opportunity to win a car, which is both rewarding and exciting for all involved”, says Esti Arriaga with HISD.
It’s Cool to be SMART! One lucky HISD Student will win a car courtesy of Texas Direct Auto.
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Compounding the Answer: One Patient at a Time By Brian Simmons
W
Shannon Maguadog, Pharm. D.
hen pharmacist Shannon Maguadog reflects on the origins of why he is a compounding pharmacist, he thinks about a gorilla and a water gun. Dr. Maguadog, founder and owner of Compounding Corner Pharmacy in Sugar Land, was in his first year of pharmacy school at the University of Houston when a compounding pharmacist came to speak to his class. The pharmacist told a story of how he had been contacted by a zoo about a gorilla suffering from an infection in both eyes. The gorilla, which was at risk of going blind, had to be tranquilized four times a day so that it could receive eye drops. The zoo staff was worried the frequent tranquilizations would accidentally kill the gorilla, and they needed a new plan of action. The compounding pharmacist had an answer. He made five gallons of the eye drop solution, filled a Super Soaker with it and sprayed the gorilla in the face four times daily. “He said he cured the gorilla, had fun and got paid to do it,” Dr. Maguadog said with a laugh. “At that point, I said, ‘Sign me up.’ I like to think outside the box and color outside the lines. That idea was extremely appealing to fort bend
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me and cemented what I wanted to do.” The problem-solving mindset that inspired Dr. Maguadog continues every day at Compounding Corner Pharmacy located at 1730 Williams Trace Blvd.
The definition – and distinction – of compounding A compounding pharmacy creates prescription medications that are not commercially available based on a physician’s order, Dr. Maguadog said. These medications are tailored to an individual’s needs on several different levels. The case might be that a baby needs a medication that is only available in pill form. The practitioner then prescribes a liquid, or suspension, version of the drug and sends the prescription and the patient’s parents to a compounding pharmacist. In other situations, a compounding pharmacy might be needed to formulate a medication that is discontinued, specially formulated with specific regard to a patient’s allergies or is a formulation that simply does not exist. “It starts with a special need that can’t be met by the standard process,“
“You get more bang for your buck,” Dr. Maguadog said. “It’s not how much medication you take, it’s how much gets inside the cell to the site of action.” Dr. Maguadog said. “The patients we get typically have gone through the system and tried everything. These patients have fallen through the cracks, and we are their last-ditch effort.” Compounding pharmacy - produced drugs can also be prescribed in an effort to minimize side effects. A topical pain medication combination might be prescribed for an elderly patient suffering from a localized injury or arthritis. The topical medication attains a higher amount of the medication at the site to which it is applied without tearing up the patient’s stomach, an issue which many elderly patients face. Dr. Maguadog also gave the example of a B-12 shot Compounding Corner Pharmacy produces. Typically, only one percent of cyanocobalamin, the most common form of B-12, converts to the active ingredient, methylcobalamin. Compounding Corner Pharmacy makes the active ingredient itself, which human cells absorb better. “You get more bang for your buck,” Dr. Maguadog said. “It’s not how much medication you take, it’s how much gets inside the cell to the site of action.”
Compounding the answer The formulas for the compound medications have different sources, Dr. Maguadog said. Sometimes a physician knows the exact percentages of the specific drugs a patient needs in a compound. Other times, the doctor may be out of options with which he’s familiar and asks the advice of a compounding pharmacist. The pharmacist then shares with the physician what has worked in the past in similar cases or contacts the Professional Compounding Centers of America (PCCA), an association of nearly 4,000 independent pharmacists that serves as a resource for its members. “When something comes up, PCCA has a staff of consultant pharmacists and Ph.D.s,” Dr. Maguadog said. “We consult with them and ultimately plan several courses of action the practitioner can choose from.” Compounding Corner Pharmacy also offers bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, a process in which hormones lost in menopause for women and andropause for men are replaced. www.fortbend
.com • August 2011
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The bio-identical hormones compounded by Compounding Corner Pharmacy most often are a combination of: estradiol, estriol, progesterone, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone, cortisol (Hydrocortisone), T4 (Levothyroxine) and T3 (Liothyronine or Triiodothyronine). “We make bio-identical hormones that are individualized and tailored to the patient’s specific needs,” Dr. Maguadog added. “This minimizes side effects and maximizes therapeutic outcomes. The hormones are available in sustainedrelease capsules, transdermal creams and sub-lingual troches (dissolvable lozenges).”
Making the grade Compounding Corner Pharmacy is unique in that it is the only pharmacy in Fort Bend County that is accredited by the Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board (PCAB). There are only 11 PCAB-accredited pharmacies in Texas and just more than 100 in the nation.
The Compounding Corner Pharmacy highly trained staff are (left to right): Ronald Bee, Catherine Ayers, Linda Ehlig, Dr. Shannon Maguadog, Jason Witzel, Connie Graves and Marielena Garza.
PCAB-accreditation is more than just a title -- it represents a standard of safety, efficacy and quality. Compounded medications inevitably vary from pharmacy to pharmacy because different pharmacies make drugs differently. Pharmacies are regulated at the state level, Dr. Maguadog said, but there are varying levels of purity, grade, potency
and product quality in compounding. “In theory, (the compound) will be right wherever you go,” Dr. Maguadog said. “Unfortunately, that does not work out all the time.” PCAB was founded by entities in the medical field that desired a set of standards for compounding pharmacies across the United States. These organi-
Top Five Reasons to Use a PCAB-Accredited Pharmacy 5. Endorsement -- PCAB is endorsed by trusted entities in the medical field, including the American Medical Association, American Pharmacists Association and the American Veterinary Medical Association. 4. Ethics -- PCAB adopted the Code of Ethics for Pharmacists and encourages the pharmacies it accredits to do the same. This code includes principles such as integrity, compassion, competence and confidentiality. 3. Training -- Pharmacies accredited by PCAB are required to be trained in compounding regularly. Each staff member at Compounding Corner Pharmacy is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) in the primary basic training program in compounding techniques. The pharmacists are ACPE-accredited in Risk Level I, II and III aseptic compounding. 2. Efficacy -- This term refers to a drug‘s effectiveness. Through standardized methods of compounding required by PCAB, pharmacies can ensure the medications they compound are effective and meet a patient’s needs on a personalized level. 1. Safety -- Dabbling in compounding pharmacy is dangerous, Dr. Shannon Maguadog said, thus pharmacies that are serious about taking on the responsibility must uphold strict safety standards. PCAB-accredited pharmacies go through a rigorous process in which they prove they do everything the right way and have standards for continuous quality improvement. fort bend
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zations include the American Pharmacists Association, the American College of Apothecaries, the International Academy of Compounding Pharmacists and the United States Pharmacopeia, among others. These standards include rules regarding sterility of the pharmacy’s facilities and the potency and purity of the medications produced. A surveyor visits the pharmacy applying for accreditation and informs the pharmacist of the changes that need to be made. A pharmacy must also have the correct fixtures, software and put together an extensive operations and procedures manual. This is just the beginning of becoming PCAB-accredited, a process that is appropriately grueling, Dr. Maguadog said. “You have to refine, refine and refine until you get it right. If you do it right, it takes up to two years.” Compounding Corner Pharmacy earned accreditation in 2008 and must be reaccredited in October. When PCABaccreditation began five years ago, Dr. Maguadog said he knew he wanted his pharmacy to meet the board’s standards. “We wanted to prove we offered the highest quality product available,” he said. “That builds trust with physicians and patients. Getting the accreditation is going the extra mile to show you’re serious about getting it right every time.” Human deaths stemming from compounding mistakes in incidents in California and Midland serve as examples of what can happen when certain standards aren’t met. Twenty-one horses died when too much selenium was put in a compound given to horses at a polo tournament in Florida in 2009. “Compounding pharmacy is a valuable service, but if it’s not regulated, it can be dangerous,” Dr. Maguadog said.
A standard of excellence The Compounding Corner Pharmacy staff prides itself in attention to detail. The staff members are personally trained
on-site and are all sent to PCCA for standardized courses in compounding techniques. Each staff member has years of experience, Dr. Maguadog said. While he values teaching students about compounding, to consistently maintain the highest standards, he opted not to have them rotate through his pharmacy. The pharmacist gives back in other ways, but felt he needed to do all he could to not compromise the efficacy and safety of the medications his staff compounds. In addition to his work in the pharmacy and spending time with his wife and four (soon to be five) children, Dr. Maguadog serves in the community through St. Laurence Catholic Church and School, public speaking at pharmacy student organizations and donating blood regularly.
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Dr. Shannon Maguadog and his wife, Gloria, with their children Teresa, Phillip, Trinity and Daniel.
Dr. Maguadog, who earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Dallas and a doctor of pharmacy degree from the University of Houston, was born on a military base in Guam to a father who was a sergeant in the Army. Frequent moves during his childhood years taught the future pharmacist to make friends easily. He credits that background for how comfortable he is with communicating today, be it in front of pharmacy students or consulting with customers whose specific medication needs are met daily at Compounding Corner Pharmacy. For more information on Compounding Corner Pharmacy, visit www.compoundingcornerpharmacy.com. Customers wanting to know if their compounding pharmacy is PCAB-accredited, visit www.pcab.info or click on the PCAB logo on Compounding Corner Pharmacy’s website. n FBF
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TACLB27392E
on
Finance
Provided by RBC Wealth Management and H. H. “Will” Hardee, AWM – Financial Advisor
Storm Flags Flying
H
ere on the Gulf Coast, we prepare for hurricane season every May. It’s not something we look forward to. We’d rather be planning our summer vacation to the beach or a Caribbean island. But, it’s what you do to prepare. Investing is much of the same. An old adage on Wall Street is sell in May and go away. This saying came about decades ago as traders in New York City would sell their positions in anticipation of spending the summer in the cooler environs of the Hamptons. This was well before electronic trading and cell phones. However, there is a great deal of truth that still guides human nature today. There are documented seasonal tendencies such as the best six months and the worst six months of the year. According to the Stock Trader’s Almanac, May through October has historically been the worst six month period of each year. If you had invested $10,000 in the Dow Jones Industri-
al Average on May 1st and sold October 31st of every year since 1950, you would have lost $300 total over the past 61 years The above example is not an investment recommendation. However, a wise investor, just like a wise vacationer, plans for a hurricane this time of year, even as they go about their everyday business. The most recent good period, November 2010 through April 2011, produced a very nice gain in the Dow Jones Industrial Average of over 15%. May, on the other hand, has not been very kind to investors so far. With the specter of potential European debt defaults and heated political rhetoric on the U.S. debt ceiling, it promises to be a very hot summer indeed. Don’t despair, just prepare. The average American cannot afford to retire on just their savings. They must invest to accumulate wealth. Our goal is to help you prepare for your future even as the “storm flags are flying.” If you’d like to learn more about
the “good” period of investing, how we help manage “hurricane season” or strategies designed to accumulate and maintain wealth, contact us at www.hardeeinvestmentgroup.com.
The views presented herein are solely those of H.H. “Will” Hardee, and do not necessarily represent the views of RBC Wealth Management. Current status of issues discussed in this letter is subject to change based upon market conditions and industry fundamentals. Clients should work with their Financial Advisor to develop investment strategies tailored to their own financial circumstances. The Dow Jones Industrial Average covers 30 blue chip U.S. companies selected by the editors of the Wall Street Journal. The Dow represents about 25 percent of the NYSE market capitalization and less than 2 percent of NYSE issues. Market indices are not subject to charges such as investment advisory fees or other expenses of the type typically charged by Investment Companies, and are not available for direct investment. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. The name Hardee Investment Group refers to a group of Financial Advisors working in the Houston, Texas office of RBC Wealth Management. The Hardee Investment Group is not a separate legal or corporate entity. All services offered and all memberships referenced in the presentation refer to the services offered or registrations held through RBC Wealth Management. RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC. H
Tired of just seeing the grey clouds? Let us show you the silver lining. There are plenty of opportunities to be had, even in a down market. If you haven’t uncovered them yet, let us help. We can introduce you to some new strategies and products that may brighten up your financial outlook.
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© 2011 RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC. 11-HC-363_7.25x3.125 Create ad 5.indd Advertorial
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7/1/11 8:24 AM
I chose MD Anderson in Sugar Land - Michelle Williams
When I had breast cancer, the world’s leading care was right here. My team of experts in Sugar Land focused only on me and my cancer. They guided me through advanced MD Anderson treatment options including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, clinical trials, and support services. They customized a plan just for me. Having MD Anderson in my community kept me close to my two boys and close to home. I chose MD Anderson in Sugar Land. Find Your MD Anderson today.
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Health
By Dr. Peter Osborne
Thyroid Disease –
Can Gluten and Vitamin Deficiency Be to Blame? Thyroid Disease and Dysfunction Classic signs of thyroid hormone deficiency include fatigue, memory loss, cold hands and feet, muscle and joint pain, depression, high cholesterol, and constipation. Over the past several years, I have seen a large influx of patients that had been placed on thyroid hormones to treat the above symptoms. The problem with this approach is that it doesn’t actually address why the body is not making enough thyroid hormone in the first place. What you should know about Thyroid Hormone Production: Thyroid hormone production is under the influence of a chemical called thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). TSH is made by the pituitary gland. When circulating levels of thyroxine (T-4) are low, TSH sends a message to your thyroid gland to start producing more T-4. The building blocks your body uses to make T-4 come from food constituents that we obtain from the diet (tyrosine – an amino acid from protein and certain minerals – iodine, zinc, etc). Once your body makes T-4, it must be activated by other nutrients (vitamins and minerals) into something known as T-31. T-3 is the active form of thyroid hormone that works to increase the body’s metabolism. However, certain nutrient deficiencies and stress can lead to a reduction in T-3 and instead the production of Reverse T-3. This form of T-3 is not as effective
and leads to symptoms of hypothyroidism. Unfortunately, Reverse T-3 is cannot be distinguished from T-3 in traditional thyroid lab reports and this is a common oversight by many physicians. Once T-3 is made it will attach to the nucleus inside your cells and increase the body’s metabolism appropriately. Once again, however, certain nutrient deficiencies can decrease the responsiveness of our body’s cells to T-3, causing symptoms of hypothyroidism. For these reasons lab reports commonly performed by physicians that look at TSH, T-4, and T-3, can be misleading. A simplified diagram of thyroid hormone production is listed below: TSH Stimulates the thyroid gland to make T-4 T-4 Converts to either T-3 or Reverse T-3 (RT3) RT3 is inactive. Normal T-3 attaches to the cell nucleus Once attachment of T-3 occurs the body’s metabolism increases
Gluten Sensitivity and Thyroid Dysfunction Gluten sensitivity is a common cause of thyroid dysfunction. Gluten exposure can trigger an autoimmune reaction (Hashimoto’s disease) that disrupts normal thyroid hormone production. (For more on this visit www.GlutenFreeSociety.org) and visit the Glutenology tab. There are also many other environmental
Glutenology - Recipes for the Gluten Free Warrior
factors that can effect thyroid hormone production. Oral contraceptives and estrogen containing medications have been shown to reduce the conversion of T4 to T33. Many herbicides and pesticides contain estrogen mimicking compounds known to effect thyroid hormone production. Soy foods and sodas can cause a reduction in thyroid hormone. Certain food allergies and selenium deficiency are linked to autoimmune thyroid dysfunction3,4. Heavy metal exposure through air, water, dental fillings etc. have been linked to poor thyroid function. Remember that thyroid disease is never just as simple as taking a medication whether it is bio-identical or not. Thyroid dysfunction has a cause. An astute physician will take an active roll in care and seek to perform a comprehensive exam and laboratory work up that will identify the cause. Keep in mind that your body has the ability to make its own thyroid hormone providing that all the essential nutrients necessary are present in the diet or through supplementation, providing that the environment is conducive to the expression of good health, and providing that the individual is properly educated in the care of his/her body. Many patients that come to me initially are taking some form of thyroid medication. Many were instructed that the medication was a life long necessity. And in many it is very common that the medication becomes unnecessary. For more information, contact Dr. Osborne at 281-240-2229 or visit www. TownCenterWellness.com H Moncayo R, et al. The role of selenium, vitamin C, and zinc in benign thyroid diseases and of selenium in malignant thyroid diseases: Low selenium levels are found in subacute and silent thyroiditis and in papillary and follicular carcinoma. BMC Endocr Disord. 2008 Jan 25;8:2. 2. Pansini F, et al. Effect of the hormonal contraception on serum reverse triiodothyronine levels. Gynecol Obstet Invest 1987;23:133. 3. Mazokopakis EE, et al. Effects of 12 months treatment with L-selenomethionine on serum anti-TPO Levels in Patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Thyroid 2007 Jul;17(7):609-12. 4. Negro R, et al. The influence of selenium supplementation on postpartum thyroid status in pregnant women with thyroid peroxidase autoantibodies. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2007 Apr;92(4):1263-8. Epub 2007 Feb 6. 1.
World renowned gluten free expert Dr. Peter Osborne has just published Glutenology - Recipes for the Gluten Free Warrior. The book contains 146 true gluten free recipes. It is the first book of its kind to delineate between “traditional gluten free” and true gluten free foods. In addition to gluten free, many of the recipes in the book are dairy and sugar free as well. To order, contact the Gluten Free Society at www.glutenfreesociety.org/ healthy-gluten-free-recipes.
Advertorial
fort bend
Dr. Peter Osborne
magazine • August 2011
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Yenny
By Wayne Chandler
A Golden Girl of Senior Swimming
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our years ago, Fort Bend Focus Magazine featured an amazing Lake Olympia senior citizen, Yenny Van Dinter, when she claimed silver medals in the 50-yard, 100-yard and 200-yard breast stroke swimming events in the National Senior Games in Louisville, Kentucky. Last June 28th and 29th at these same senior games in Houston, Yenny, now 77, once again took medals – gold medals in fact – in these same three events in the 75 to 79 year-old category. These National Senior Games attracted more than 10,000 athletes with 686 of those registered for swimming in the games at University of Houston. Most of the other senior events were held at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston. It was a sweet homecoming for Yenny, who since the 2007 games, has retired and moved to Deming, New Mexico. She got to win the gold in front of friends in the Greater Houston area. In the 200-yard breaststroke event, Yenny took five seconds off of her time, coming in at 3:54.85, against 14 other swimmers. This performance was some 30 seconds faster than her nearest competitor and faster than many of the men’s times in this same category. She won handily in the 50-yard and 100-yard events too, as she has continued to improve her personal marks . Yenny, the energizer bunny, and longtime friend, Pamela Gulbrandson, a former oil company executive in Houston, have
August 2011
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stayed physically fit through a highly disciplined routine which Yenny started in the Fort Bend YMCA on Cartwright Road. She worked out four mornings a week there, and she has continued to do so in Deming. Yenny has also competed at big national and international swim meets since leaving this area. These senior games are held every two years, and two years ago in Palo Alto, California, Yenny swam her way to a silver and two bronze medals. In October 2010, Yenny competed in the Huntsman Senior World Games in St. George, Utah, which involved 240 other master swimmers from throughout the world. She won three gold medals in these same three events and set two Huntsman World Games records. She swam the 50-meter free style just for fun and won a bronze! Last April, Yenny competed in the U.S. Masters Spring Nationals Swim Meet in Mesa, Arizona, with 1,800 swimmers, age 19 to 90. Yenny, in her age group, brought home gold in the 50 and 200-yard breaststroke events, and silver in the 100-yard event. Yenny notes that all of these events, including the National Senior Games which originated in 1985 in St. Louis, Missouri, have been extremely rewarding physically, emotionally and socially. She has made friends with swimmers from virtually every state in the nation. The overall games have showcased thousands of physically fit seniors who are setting examples for all age groups. Some competitors, in their late 90’s have received standing ovations when they finish some of these long events, even minutes after their rivals finished. Yenny plans to compete in the next senior games in 2013, in Cleveland, Ohio. She became a poster girl at the Fort Bend YMCA. She’s a golden girl now in the national spotlight. H
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By Nick Nicholson
T
he long awaited Rise of the Planet of the Apes is upon us and releases in early August. This latest installment is set in present day San Francisco and no, it isn’t a remake. This film is the prequel to the series of films that came out so long ago (1968) starring Charlton Heston and Roddy McDowall. The film is simply a cautionary tale that blends both science fiction and fact into a hubris that yields a higher level of intelligence in apes. The film centers on genetic research and the possible development of a cure for Alzheimer’s. As is typically the case, the research is performed on monkeys in the hopes of creating a benign virus that can transgress the brain tissue in order to restore full functionality. After the research program is shut down, there is but one chimp left, and the researcher decides to raise that single surviving chimp at home. The chimp is unbelievably intelligent, and he continues to evolve and mutate, moving from sign language to actual speech. Eventually,
this chimp ends up causing an uprising with his brethren. What happens soon after that is a battle for supremacy between man and beast. There are certain film series that folks feel just should be left well enough alone. For many years, it was always my opinion the Planet of the Apes franchise fell into that category. With the delightfully poor Mark Wahlberg edition having done nothing but bolster my original thought, I heard groans from critics all across the land when word came out of this new film. After having seen what I have, I will be the
first to tell you I love to admit when I am wrong. The visual effects on this picture are amazing. The folks at WETA Digital utilized similar technologies created for Avatar while making this picture. You won’t see any actors dressed in ape suits in this version. The apes are photo realistic and, quite frankly, very scary. There is rather high number of homages to the original series of films, which will clearly provide smiles to the faces of those fundamentalists out there. For instance, newscasts in the film recount the launch of the Icarus space craft, captained by Colonel Taylor. Taylor, you may remember, was played by Charlton Heston in the original film. The chimp’s mother in this film is named Bright Eyes, which is what Dr. Zira called Colonel Taylor in the original film. This is clearly a link to the past (or future, depending upon how you look at it!) The chemistry of the performances is wonderful and the story is definitely suited for the wellmannered audience. As you can expect with a Planet of the Apes film, the end is both dreary and bleak, which most definitely keeps the door open for another film down the road. Rise of the Planet of the Apes is definitely worth seeing. Stop monkeying around, and go check it out! H Rise of the Planet of the Apes Starring: James Franco, John Lithgow & Brian Cox Director: Rupert Wyatt Company: 20th Century Fox Now Showing: In Local Theatres MPAA Rating: NR Grade: APhotos courtesy of 20th Century Fox.
Nick Nicholson is the Film and Entertainment Critic for CNN Radio, the Fort Bend Star, Fort Bend Focus, 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 2011
24
Methodist Family Medicine Group LET OUR FAMILY CARE FOR YOUR FAMILY!
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Each of our physicians has a strong commitment to improving the health and well-being of the Fort Bend community. Methodist Family Medicine Group is also supported by the leading technology and expertise of Methodist Sugar Land Hospital and its medical professionals and physicians. Call 281-275-0800 or email FamilyMedicine@tmhs.org to schedule your appointment. Same-day and Saturday appointments are available with most physicians. Located on the Methodist Sugar Land campus in Medical Office Building Three.
Family Medicine Group 16605 Southwest Freeway, Suite 400 Sugar Land, Texas 77479 281-275-0800 • FamilyMedicine@tmhs.org MethodistFMG.com
Go to our website now to make an appointment by using your smartphone QR reader. Follow Methodist Family Medicine Group on Facebook.
Seen
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Photos by Mary Favre & Liz Furman
A Celebration of a Statesman
Mayor Joe M. Gurecky Thursday, June 23, 2011 • Safari Texas Ranch: Magnolia Room
Fort Bend County Mayors: Jimmy Thompson, Allen Owen, Hilmar Moore, Joe Gurecky, Vincent Morales & Leonard Scarcella
Joe Gurecky & Kathy Hutchens
Joe Gurecky & Olga Marie Kulcak
Tim & Patti Kaminski with Doris & Joe Gurecky
Front: Jacob Dorman. 2nd row: Luke & Kylie Dorman, Joe & Doris Gurecky, Tama & John Dorman. Back: Ken, Pam & Blake Koepke
Joe & Doris Gurecky with Regina & Vincent Morales
Mike O’Connell & Joe Gurecky
Mary & Carl Favre
Joe Freudenberger & Joe Gurecky
Pat Hebert & Lucia Street
Joe Gurecky & Gail Parker
Sandra Startz & Joe Gurecky
Evalyn Moore, Billie Wendt & Ann Council
Merle & Don Smithers
fort bend
magazine • August 2011
26
Debbie & Marvin Marcell
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For more information, call 281-690-4242. Doris Gurecky with Neil & Carolyn Banfield www.fortbend
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FORT BEND
HEADLINERS Send your news via www.FortBendFocus. com. Deadline for submission is on or before the 10th of the month for the next month’s publication. All submissions are subject to the publisher’s approval, editing and space availability.
Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee Community Challenge Attention Fort Bend County residents! The Literacy Council of Fort Bend County would like to challenge the community to participate in the 2nd Annual Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee. Whether you lost your grade-school Spelling Bee and cannot wait any longer to redeem yourself, want to participate in a fun, old-fashioned Bee to increase your knowledge or just want to get away from the office for a few hours on a Friday, the Bee is for you! For only a $500 team entry fee, a team of three spellers will win a place in our “Honey Hall of Fame” and the braggadocio rights as the “Best Grown-Up Spellers in the County.” Roberts Markel, a prestigious, Tex-
as-based law firm, has already secured their team of “Spelling Bees.” Mark Rabe, Jack Turano and Lyndsay Weber comprise the Roberts Markel team, and they are determined to dominate the Bee. “We are not scared of the competition,” said Carl Favre, Roberts Markel’s team coach. “We are looking forward to competing against other local businesses and our neighbors to The Spelling Bee team from Roberts Markel is “bzzzy” see who can earn the title of the studying spelling words so that they can “bee” prepared for ‘Best Grown-Up Spellers in Fort the Spelling Bee on August 26. Front Row: Jack Turano and Brenda Bowman, Executive Director, Literacy Council of Fort Bend County.’” It will not be an Bend County. Back Row: Lyndsay Weber, Mark Rabe and Carl easy feat to beat this tough team Favre. of lawyers, but someone in Fort Bend County should be able to give them a “run for their honey.” and all proceeds benefit the life changing Sponsorship opportunities range from programs of the Literacy Council. $100 to $5,000. As a sponsor at the $100 If you are interested in competing level, donors will choose a letter in our Aagainst other local spellers, or just want to Bee-C’s for Literacy Alphabet. Businessout-spell the Roberts Markel team, please es will claim the letter of their business call 281.240.8181 or visit www.grownupand have that letter represent their busibee.com. See you at the Bee on August 26, ness. The “Literacy Alphabet” will be on 2011! display at the event. There are other variHeadliners Continued on page 36 ous opportunities to sponsor this event,
Literacy Council of Fort Bend’s 2nd Annual
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For more information, please contact the Literacy Council at 281.240.8181 or visit www.grownupbee.com. fort bend
magazine • August 2011
28
Houston Community Bank, N.A.
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Czech Heritage Day in Historic Downtown Rosenberg
Chamber for Young Professionals Meeting
Jason Griggs, Angie Sanders, & Elliot Wood.
Caroline Egan, Andi Wallis & George Patterson.
Wolfram M. Von-Maszewski & Bill Butler.
Rosenberg Mayoral Reception For Vincent Morales Hosted by Bob and Marcia Vogelsang at Vogelsang Antique Emporium showcasing the Railroad Museum in Historic Downtown Rosenberg.
Emmie & Rebecca Rautio.
Rae Taylor & Jerry Hoover.
Annelise & Lisa Rickert, Bill Benton & Bill Rickert.
Arthur Zarosky. Tom Suter, Bob Vogelsang & Lupe Uresti.
Kelly Knake, Vincent Morales & Mike Mercado.
Texas Educational Support Staff Association Administrator of the Year Lamar CISD’s Executive Director for Community Relations Christy Willman was named the Administrator of the Year at the annual summer conference. Congratulations Christy! fort bend
magazine • August 2011
30
Marcia & Bob Vogelsang.
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The Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land Join us for FREE admission to the Museum, birthday party treats, and a few surprises! www.FortBendChristian.org/BirthdayBash
Fort Bend Baptist Academy is now
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3rd Annual Sugar Land Bash Harley Davidson Raffle Winner Linko’s Little Print Shop Ribbon Cutting
A 2011 Harley-Davidson, generously provided by Republic Harley-Davidson, was given away in the raffle drawing, along with more than twenty other items from TCRN-Sugar Land businesses at the BASH.
Guests attending Linko’s Little Print Shop Ribbon Cutting include Angie Sanders, Vincent Morales, Eloise Lucas, Chloee Peyton, Linda and Kino McHaney, Elizabeth Renteria, Alicia Casias, Tom Wilson, Yazmin Aleman and Daryl Segura.
Craig Slovak, Minda Harris, Trish & Kevin Kline, Brian Covault, BASH Winner Amy Mitchell & Michael Garfield.
3rd Annual Sugar Land Bash CRAWL at Char House Bar & Grille
Carrie & Michael Garfield.
Fort Bend Friends and Neighbors Executive Officer Installation
Tiffany & Matt Parrott, Jennifer & Steve Kinne, Kim & Pam Kinne and Ethan & Missy Rasei.
The Ladybugs Visit Seniors for Father’s Day The Ladybugs visited the Silverado Senior Living Facility for Father’s Day. Pictured are Vicki Latham, Debbie Hulen, Kamelah Sisk, Akilah Sisk & LaRob Whitman. This group visits the elderly, mentally challenged and sick and also holds events such as teas and garden parties. Contact Vicki Latham 281-384-4006 for information. fort bend
magazine • August 2011
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Board of Directors Paula Ruskan, Gail Grace, Nancy Frank, Anne Beatty, Rhonda Lowery, Debbie Jackson, Gayle Daniel, Mary Schordock, & Charlotte Guettner.
Directors are Helene Snyder, Tricia Tompson, Elaine Aleman, Fran Ward, Norma Smith & Bet Cooper.
Bank of Fort Bend is changing its name to Texan Bank. Same friendly folks, but now locally owned, with even more capital, higher lending limit, and a Friendswood location opening soon.
Open your CD today! 281.276.1800
Heritage Baptist Church a place to call home Schedule of Services SUNDAY Sunday School................. 9:30am Sunday AM Worship ..... 10:45am Bible Classes ................... 6:05 pm Sunday PM Worship ..... 7:00 pm
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281-403-4994 www.hbctx.org 2223 FM 1092 Missouri City, Texas 77459
Experience a peaceful country setting like no other at the George Ranch Historical Park. With several historic venues and countless custom package www.georgeranch.org/rentals 10215 FM 762 in Richmond (281) 343-0218 • events@georgeranch.org Mention this ad to receive a free 2 hour photo shoot and 10% off facilities when you book your wedding by August 31, 2011! www.fortbend
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Richmond Rotary Club Meeting 2250 Interiors & Gifts Celebrates its One Year Anniversary with Champagne & Cupcakes
Jeniffer Hartman, Stephen Cox, Lee Cox & Kasey Doggett.
Diane DuBroc, Jenny Lichtenstein & Lauren Caldwell.
Virginia Valentine, Kendra Benson & Jackie Bergdoll.
Cherie Vasquez & Alicia Casias.
Texana Volunteer Receives Frank M. Adams Award Toni Kennedy & Sylvia Rowehl.
Teena Caldwell with Victor & Emiley Hendrix.
Vietnamese Delegation Visits Missouri City to Learn About Business Opportunities
A delegation of senior Vietnamese officials and business leaders visited Missouri City to learn about economic development and local government. The dignitaries also toured key parts of the “Show Me City.” Some City Council members and staff also met with the group, including Mayor Allen Owen (center at the podium), Councilman Danny Nguyen, second person to the left of Owen, Councilman Floyd Emery, first person from the right, and former City Manager Frank Simpson, second from the right. Photo courtesy of Missouri City.
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magazine • August 2011
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Mary Ernestine Butler, Texana Choir Director, was awarded the Frank M. Adams Award at the Texas Council of Community Centers 26th Annual Conference. She was selected from applications submitted by community centers, like Texana, from all over Texas.
FORT BEND
Focus CareS Mark Fitzsimmons: Model Mentor Mark Fitzsimmons was hesitant when Chuck Bertrand approached him and told him about HOSTS, a reading mentoring program at Austin Elementary that was desperately in need of volunteers. “I didn’t feel I had the time, and I didn’t know if I could help kids,” he explained. Mark committed to one 30 minute session a week, but it wasn’t long before he became “really addicted to it,” ultimately volunteering each school year, an hour at a time for four days a week, before heading into BMC Software where he works as a mainframe programmer. Mark describes volunteering as “the highlight” of his day. “I enjoy working with all of the kids. For one hour, I’m not thinking about myself, and I feel I’m actually helping them in a small way, even if it’s just showing them a smiling face and encouraging them. What could be more satisfying than donating just a little time and helping a child, especially with something as
Mark Fitzsimmons important as helping them to read?” “There was a boy who couldn’t read a single word, not even the. In March, he read a little book for the first time by himself. Then, instead of playing a game, he read three more books. You
could have knocked me over with a feather. I was the happiest person in Houston that day,” Mark exclaimed. “I don’t think he had a learning disability. My guess is that he was not read to at home. He just needed a little one-onone attention.” “I think, as a parent, you really want all kids to do well, not just your own. Since my kids are grown and gone, the HOSTS program is an excellent venue for somebody like me, an empty nester, who would like to contribute. When the school year ends, I anxiously look forward to the next. If I did not work full time, I would volunteer even more. The program is terrific.” For more information about the HOSTS program, contact Amanda McAuley at (832) 223-1000. For other volunteer opportunities in Fort Bend County, visit www.VolunteerFortBend. org or call 281-340-1919. ★
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Headliners Continued from page 28
BILL WAS HERE when he discovered that the thrill of hanging 10 has nothing on hanging around Cloud 9.
Blessed Be Hope for Three Inc. President Darla Farmer (center) and Advisory Board members Mary Ann Gardner and Joan Soland.
“Hope for Three” Announces its First Annual Luncheon
“When I see the beaches from my Skyhawk, I realize that the people down there don’t know what they’re missing.” – Bill Bradley, Cessna Owner
Anson Aviation will help you discover life in a brand new way of life. We’re based at the award-winning Sugar Land Regional Airport. Call 281-242-2555 or visit ansonair.com.
The Andreason Law Firm Now you don’t have to drive to Houston for experienced Estate Planning.
Kurt M. Andreason, Attorney-at-Law Board Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in Estate Planning, Probate Law and Commercial Real Estate. 4840 Sweetwater Blvd, Suite B (at rear), Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-265-1561 www.andreasonlawfirm.com
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magazine • August 2011
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Blessed Be Hope for Three is a newly formed 501(c)3 non-profit organization established to bring Autism Awareness to the Fort Bend County community. As part of its debut, the organization is hosting a “Lite Lunch and Dazzling Desserts” on August 11th from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. The inaugural event will take place in the Sweetwater Estates at the home of Jim and Sharon Wilson. Renowned Chef Reynold Darthard (Chef Rey) will lend his exquisite talents by preparing an extraordinary menu for the event. Inspired by the Montgomery triplets of Richmond, Hope for Three saw the need to initiate communication within the community and provide knowledge on the evolving set of educational, health and financial challenges for families with children diagnosed on the autism spectrum. Coping with the distressing diagnosis of autism for any child can be devastating; multiply those stresses and imagine if you will, the financial and overwhelming daily experiences a family with multiples endures. Hope for Three’s “Lite Lunch and Dazzling Desserts” will feature a delicious lunch from Renowned Chef Reynold Darthard (Chef Rey), exciting prizes and phenomenal guest speakers sure to offer a fun and informative afternoon. Chef Rey will also introduce a new signature line of nutritional cheese cakes and will donate a portion of all sales proceeds to Hope for Three. Ticket cost is only $40 and may be purchased by contacting Darla Farmer at 713-858-7965 or email darla@ HopeforThree.org. All ticket sales and contributions are tax deductible. Visit www.HopeforThree.org. Headliners Continued on page 63
FORT BEND’S FINEST IN MEDICINE Health Care News You Can Use
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Advertorial
Fort Bend’s Finest In Medicine Prostate Cancer: What You Can Do About This Silent Killer
Vivek Kavadi, M.D. Texas Oncology– Sugar Land
Zachary Mucher, M.D.
Texas Urology Specialists– Sugar Land
By Vivek Kavadi, M.D. and Zachary Mucher, M.D. For many Texas men, prostate cancer can be a silent killer. It is the most commonly diagnosed cancer for men in the state and country, and one of the leading causes of cancer deaths among men. However, this is a cancer that often shows no symptoms, and if left undetected, can silently attack its victims with no warning signs. In 2010, more than 217,730 new cases of prostate cancer were diagnosed in the United States. In Texas, the expectation is that more than 16,000 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed in 2011, with an estimated 1,789 deaths. While these numbers are alarming, there is a degree of good news about prostate cancer as it relates to preventive measures men can take, available screening options and successful early detection and treatment. In fact, if prostate cancer is detected and treated early and before the cancer spreads, patients have a nearly 100 percent chance of survival after five years.
Prevention
Treatment
Prevention of prostate cancer is based on a set of good lifestyle choices, which can also reduce the risk for several other types of cancers and health conditions. Healthy eating is paramount to healthy living, with nutrition, weight management, and regular exercise all essential elements. Several studies have also pointed to regular exercise as a key preventive measure for reducing prostate cancer risk. Being overweight or obese can further complicate prostate cancer, so maintaining a healthy body weight is important.
Prostate cancer, depending on the stage, may be treated by different members of the cancer care team — urologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists. Physicians will determine the most appropriate treatment for each patient, but possible treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy.
Early Detection
It is essential that men discuss with their physicians the risks and benefits associated with prostate cancer screening and make informed decisions about testing. Cancer screening is highly encouraged on a regular basis to help detect cancer in its most treatable form. While it is important to develop an individualized schedule for prostate screenings, in most cases, screening should begin at age 50 as part of an annual exam. Men at high risk (African American men and men with a family history of prostate cancer before age 65) should begin testing at age 40. Prostate screenings should include the prostatespecific antigen (PSA) blood test and a digital rectal exam (DRE).
Symptoms
Although symptoms may not always appear, there may be warning signs. Possible symptoms include: a frequent need to urinate, especially at night; difficulty controlling urination or bowel movements; painful or burning urination; blood in the urine or semen; difficulty having an erection; painful ejaculation; frequent pain or stiffness in the spine, hips, ribs, and other bones; and weakness or numbness in the legs or feet. Advertorial
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Understanding and Reducing Risk
With the rising numbers of prostate cancer diagnoses – and the clear benefit of preventive measures, available screenings, and early detection and treatment – it’s essential that men understand their risk and take steps to reduce it. It’s also critically important to remember that leading-edge treatment offers patients heightened survival rates, especially when cancers are detected early. Spreading awareness is essential to the cause, so please encourage everyone you know to reduce their risk and avoid becoming another victim of this silent killer. Dr. Kavadi is a radiation oncologist at Texas Oncology–Sugar Land located at 1350 First Colony Boulevard, and Dr. Mucher is a urologist with Texas Urology Specialists–Sugar Land, located at 17510 West Grand Parkway, Suite 420 in Sugar Land, Texas. ★
Fort Bend’s Finest In Medicine Sandra Templeton, MD Dedicated to Excellence, Passionate about Your Care
Breast Care in a Comprehensive and Caring Manner Diseases and surgery of the breast, specifically the diagnosis and
Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed with breast cancer, have an abnormal mammogram, or simply feel a lump, Dr. Sandra Templeton is a leading breast surgeon who specializes in the personalized care and treatment of women with breast diseases. You will be personally evaluated by Dr. Templeton and an individualized treatment plan based on your specific needs will be created. Equally important, you will be provided prompt access to treatment to assure the best possible outcome. Dr. Templeton loves teaching her patients about their illness giving them empowerment and comfort through knowledge. She specializes in minimally invasive procedures and newer breast surgeries that have a more cosmetically pleasing outcome, including the nipple sparing mastectomy, a mastectomy where all of the skin, nipple, and areola are saved. Dr. Templeton has been a board certified general surgeon for more than ten years. She is a fellow of the American College of Surgeon and a member of the American Society of Breast Surgeons. She taught at Baylor College of Medicine, her alma mater, from 2005-2008 prior to returning to private practice. Dr. Templeton’s commitment to excellence and patient centered care were recently recognized when she was named a Houston area “Top Doc” by HTexas magazine. Dr. Templeton collaborates with other doctors in multidisciplinary cancer care conferences at Methodist Sugar Land, Memorial Hermann Memorial City, and OakBend Medical Center to continually improve the outcomes of her patients. For more information, contact Templeton Breast Care located at 16605 Southwest Freeway #220, Sugar Land, TX 77479 or call 281-494-3000. ★
treatment of breast cancer
Sandra Templeton, MD, FACS
NEW SERVICE!
CELLULITE REDUCTION TONE & TIGHTEN SKIN
Certified Xtreme Lashes and NOVA Lash Professional • Specializing in one by one www.fortbend
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Advertorial
Fort Bend’s Finest In Medicine
Attention All Businesses
Is Your Child a Mouth Breather? Orthodontics for children is not just about looks but about function as well. A child who doesn’t breathe well won’t sleep well…and that will affect their performance in school, their general health, and the state of their mouth. With a dental check up from Dr. Sanchez and Dr. Radford, they can tell if your child is getting quality sleep. One of Dr. Sanchez’s six-year-old patients was over weight, diagnosed with allergies and ADHD, and breathed heavily through his mouth. When she reclined him for his exam, he couldn’t breath at all. As a dentist, Dr. Sanchez could see his bite was incorrect and then, she looked for the underlying cause. His tonsils were so enlarged that the tonsils and uvula blocked his airway. To compensate, he consistently had his lips apart and was pushing his tongue forward to open his airway. Once his tonsils are removed by his ENT, he should sleep better, be able to reduce his medications and then, she will make an orthopedic appliance to correct the position and shape of his the jaw. Come in for an exam and Dr. Sanchez and Dr. Radford will do an x-ray and detailed medical history review to see if the airway is obstructed which can possibly lead to orthodontic problems. Once the problem is corrected by the medical doctor, the doctors can use functional appliances to return the jaw to it’s proper position and shape, so it won’t continue to cause facial or dental abnormalities. Both doctors are seeing patients for braces on Fridays and Saturdays. For more information, contact Little People’s Dentistry located at 4706 Riverstone Blvd. Suite 200, Missouri City, TX 77459 (behind Kohl’s in Riverstone). Call 281-2610020 or visit www.LittlePeoplesDentistry.com. ★
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To get started, go to www.fortbendfocus.com and click on “Focus Favorites.” For more information, call 281-690-4242 See Focus Favorites on page 92.
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Fort Bend’s Finest In Medicine
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Advertorial
Fort Bend’s Finest In Medicine Pediatric Eye Care in Sugar Land
Lake Pointe Dental
Dr. Melissa C. Moeller is a 1997 Magna Cum Laude graduate of the University of Houston College of Optometry. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from Baylor University in 1991. Prior to beginning her studies in optometry, she worked for several years as a research assistant at the Department of Psychiatry at the Dallas Veterans Administration Hospital where she co-authored many papers on the roll of neurotransmitters in the brain. During the course of her studies at the University of Houston College of Optometry she co-authored a number of papers as well on binocular vision. In addition, Dr. Moeller is the recipient of numerous awards including the Bernell Clinical Optometry Award, the Vistakon Award of Excellence in Contact Lenses and Clinical Letters of Excellence from the UH faculty in pediatrics and primary eye care. Her internship included studies in Pediatric Ophthalmology with the staff of Houston Eye Associates and the Hermann Eye Center. In 1997, Dr. Moeller joined Today’s Vision with her partner, Dr. Thomas P. Arnold, and their associate, Dr. Jocelyn Horiszny. Today’s Vision Sugar Land is one of the most highly regarded optometric practices in Fort Bend County. The Doctors of Today’s Vision Sugar Land proudly credit their success to their comprehensive team approach to patient care. Dr. Moeller brings her training in pediatric vision care with an expertise on conditions affecting children, such as amblyopia to the practice. She has also developed an extensive contact lens practice in both children and adults. When not practicing optometry, Dr. Moeller enjoys spending time with her husband, Gerry, and their two children, William and Marie. For more information, call 281-242-2020 or visit www.2020sugarland.com. ★
Lake Pointe Dental & Specialty is Sugar Land’s only high-tech, multispecialty dental spa dedicated to the dental specialties of Cosmetic Dentistry, Orthodontics, Periodontics, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery and treatment for TMJ disorders. We pride ourselves on quality care and exceptional service to ensure every visit is as comfortable and worry-free as possible. We invite you to relax in our serene, spa-like environment while your smile, and your outlook, are transformed. Our on-site specialists and the latest in advanced digital technology are able to merge the beauty of art and the precision of science to improve the lives of our patients one smile at a time. Our specialists work hand-in-hand to create customized treatment options tailored for our patients. From functional procedures like the removal of wisdom teeth under sedation or straightening teeth with braces or Invisalign, to cosmetic services like in-office teeth whitening or a complete smile make over, our team of doctors cover the full spectrum of dental expertise necessary to achieve a result you will be proud of. We accept most major dental insurances and offer easy “No Excuse” payment plans with 0% interest. At Lake Pointe Dental, smiles are our specialty. Call (281) 242-4433 today to schedule a consultation, and/or visit us online at www.LakePointeDentalUSA.com for a complete list of services and a virtual tour of our facility. Lake Pointe Dental is located at 1437 Highway 6 S. #200, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Contact (281) 242-4433 or visit www.LakePointeDentalUSA.com. ★ See Ad on page 3.
Frank Lee, OD Mary Ghoubrial, OD, and Uyen Tran, OD
Thomas P. Arnold, OD Melissa C. Moeller, OD and Associates
Therapeutic and Pediatric Optometrists 8817 Hwy 6 Ste 100, Missouri City, TX 77459
Therapeutic and Pediatric Optometrists 15337 Southwest Frwy. Sugar Land, TX 77478
Sienna Parkway @ Hwy 6
281-416-2010
www.todaysvision.com
Advertorial
Williams Trace @ Hwy 59
281-242-2020
www.2020sugarland.com fort bend
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Fort Bend’s Finest In Medicine Tired of Shaving and Waxing? Amerejuve Offers a Non-Invasive Hair Removal Alternative with the Latest Advanced High-Tech Laser Technology Laser hair removal has become the latest craze in getting rid of unwanted hair. In North America alone, up to 22% of women have excessive or unwanted facial hair. Men, too, now are feeling compelled to rid themselves of unwanted body hair, as influenced by popular culture and appearance concerns. Whether undesirable body hair be undesirable for cultural, social, cosmetic, or psychological reasons, rest assured there are adequate methods for hair removal. Laser hair removal has become well established and an effective treatment for unwanted body hair. Recently, Amerejuve added an additional laser to their already large laser collection, allotting clients more options in laser hair removal therapy. Amerejuve offers its clients the latest available technology to treat all skin types and pigmentations. With multiple laser treatment options, Amerejuve is able to customize a unique laser treatment plan specific to meet individual requirements needed to eliminate the embarrassment of unwanted hair. Amerejuve’s lasers are also versatile. Not only can they be used for laser hair removal, but they are capable of treating pigmented and vascular lesions and wrinkles as well. Schedule your complimentary laser hair removal consultation by calling Amerejuve at (877) 9MEDSPA or (713) 960-6262, or visit the Amerejuve website at www.amerejuve.com for more information. ★
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Advertorial
Fort Bend’s Finest In Medicine
at Sienna Village Primary and Specialty Medicine Family Medicine
Pouran Yousefi, MD
General Medicine
Carman Whiting, MD
• Well woman examinations • Routine, annual or sports • physicals • Chronic disease management • Pediatric and adolescent care • Acute/ same day care
Geriatrics & Palliative Medicine
Ashish Asawa, MD • Preventive Care • Immunizations • Annual physical exams • Chronic and acute illness
Faith Atai, MD • Chronic and acute health • problems • Cognitive evaluation • Functional assessments • Medication reviews • Symptom control
Cardiology & Non-Invasive Imaging
Simbo Chiadika, MD • Cardiology consultation • Nuclear cardiology • Stress testing • Echocardiograms • Vascular studies • Holter monitoring
Open Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri (8am - 6pm) Open Mon – Fri (7am – 6pm) / Sat (8am – 1pm) Wed (8am - 7pm) / Sat (8am - Noon) Call for an appointment or to learn about Call for an appointment or to learn about manyother otherspecialists specialists in in the the clinic many clinic
8810 Highway 6, Suite 100
Next to HEB in the Sienna Village Shopping Center
713-486-1200 www.UTPhysicians.com/SiennaVillage • Hygiene Assistance • Meal Preparation • Light Housekeeping • Medication Reminders • Joyful Companionship • Low Hourly Rates
Senior Homecare By Angels Licensed • Bonded Insured
Advertorial
• Errands • Up to 24-Hour Care • Temporary or Long Term • Weekends, Holidays • Respite for Family Caregivers
...Because ...There’s No Place Like Home! 19901 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77479
281-207-1259 fort bend
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Back to School Physicals: Not Just for Kids Anymore Readying your child for their first day back at school typically includes a medical check-up to ensure they are healthy and prepared for the academic year. However, children are not the only ones who benefit from an annual checkup. Parents should take the opportunity to schedule their own physical examination during their child’s back to school check-up. As a parent, maintaining your health is essential to meeting the demands of your own career while juggling the responsibilities of being a parent. During your physical, some common assessments may include: medical history, vital signs (blood pressure, respiratory rate, heart rate, and temperature), heart and lung exam using a stethoscope, abdominal exam, neurological reflex, joints of the extremities and possibly specific blood chemical analysis. Your completed physical can provide you with peace of mind that you are in good health or allow you to address any identified concerns. In addition, it is an opportunity to establish a doctor-patient relationship that will lead to better and more efficient care during future medical visits. As the new school year begins, take time for back to school physicals for your children and an annual checkup for yourself. Dr. Ashish Asawa is an internist with UT Physicians at Sienna Village and a faculty member with The University of Texas Medical School at Houston. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Asawa, please call 713-4861200. Dr. Asawa is located at 8810 Highway 6, Suite 100, Missouri City, TX 77459. ★
Fort Bend’s Finest In Medicine Magnets: Providing Cutting-Edge Therapy for Depression By Kimberly Cress, MD Many people who struggle with depression now have a different treatment option that can help them lead a more productive and successful life without depression. TMS Serenity Center, under the direction of Dr. Kimberly Cress, now offers an innovative and effective treatment for depression. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) was FDA approved for treatment of depression in October, 2008. TMS is a safe alternative for those who have not found relief from other anti-depressant therapies or have experienced side effects from medications. TMS uses a magnet similar in strength to the one used in an MRI. The pulsed magnetic field stimulates nerve cells within the area of the brain thought to control mood. When these nerve cells
are activated, they release chemicals (neurotransmitters) that are naturally found in the brain, ie. serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. These are the same chemicals provided by anti-depressant medications, but with TMS, there is not the risk of traditional side effects seen in anti-depressants. Individuals stop medication due to side effects such as sexual dysfunction, weight gain, nausea, sweating and sedation compared to little to no side effects with TMS. Over the past year, Dr. Cress has treated many patients suffering from depression with TMS and dramatic improvements have been seen as a result of this revolutionary treatment. After TMS therapy, Shellie said, “TMS has given me a life that I have dreamed of since I was twelve years old – the ability to feel true joy and happiness and the energy to express it.”
And Shellie is not the only one. Lisa experienced similar results. “After years of being so depressed, it feels so good to be the person I once was. Being able to interact and react to situations with a whole new attitude and outlook is just fantastic!” Nigel sums up his experience at the TMS Serenity Center. “After struggling with depression for so many years, TMS has been a miracle. I am so excited about the new me!” TMS was ranked by CNN as one of the top 10 health innovations of 2009. The TMS Serenity Center located at 4545 Sweetwater Blvd. in Sugar Land is proud to be the first in our area to provide this alternative treatment for depression. For more information, please contact the TMS Serenity Center and Dr. Kimberly Cress at 281.240.4322 or visit tmsserenitycenter.com. ★
Are You Suffering from Depression? Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) may be the answer for you. Benefits of TMS • No Weight Gain
• No Sweating
• No Nausea
• No Fatigue
• No Anxiety
• No Traditional Side Effects Seen with Medication
Kimberly Cress, M.D.
281- 240 - 4322 4545 Sweetwater Blvd., Sugar Land, TX 77479 | www.tmsserenitycenter.com www.fortbend
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Advertorial
Fort Bend’s Finest In Medicine Fertility Facility Launches a Building Families Campaign By C. James Chuong, M.D., Medical Director Cooper Institute for Advanced Reproductive Medicine With the increasing numbers of late marriage and late start of the family, more and more women have been told that they are unable to bear children because they have reached premature menopause or they can only produce old or damaged eggs. They may receive donor eggs, as long as they are healthy, to carry a pregnancy and willing to take on the responsibility of parenthood. Patient’s friends or relatives are occasionally brought in to donate eggs, but most patients prefer an anonymous donor. In addition to using the traditional paid donors, Cooper has developed an affordable approach: the Egg Sharing Program. Some women are in need of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) to become pregnant due to tubal blockage or low sperm count. If they do not have ovulation problems, and are willing to donate half of their eggs from retrieval procedures, they can be matched with a recipient. The recipient will pay a portion of the IVF charges for the donor, and there will be no egg donor compensation fee of $5,000 as in the traditional paid donor program. Cooper selects only those donors who are otherwise healthy, bright, are free of genetic and communicable diseases, and deemed psychologically healthy. The egg donation process allows a child to be biologically related to the intended father and gestated by the intended mother. Joining the world in celebrating the recognition of IVF in treating human infertility by the Nobel Prize Committee recently, our best wishes go to those who want to become parents. For more information, contact the Cooper Institute for Advanced Reproductive Medicine located at 7500 Beechnut St., Suite 308, Houston, TX 77074, call (713) 771-9771 or visit www.cooperinstitutearm.com. ★ See Ad on Inside Back page.
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
Advertorial
magazine • August 2011
For beautiful, natural results, consider Dr. John T. Nguyen of Sugar Land Plastic Surgery. Dr. Nguyen is fully trained in reconstructive and plastic surgery as well as the latest techniques in cosmetic surgery. Services available include breast augmentation, lift and reduction, liposuction, Botox™ treatments, tummy tucks and more. 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. Dr. Nguyen strives to achieve natural aesthetic enhancements that do not alter the qualities that make each person unique, but rather enhance the beauty that exists in each patient. Dr. Nguyen and his staff work closely with patients to individualize each treatment plan. Each and every staff member is dedicated to providing you with excellent, personalized care and service to make your consultation and surgery as comfortable and pleasant as possible. For patient convenience, Sugar Land Plastic Surgery offers financing through Chase Health Advance, Care Credit and My Medical Loans. Dr. Nguyen and his staff invite you to schedule a complimentary consultation today. Please visit www. MyBodySurgeon.com for more information and a complete list of procedures available or call 281-980-8000. Sugar Land Plastic Surgery is located at 13135 Dairy Ashford, Ste. 530, Su gar Land, Texas 77478. ★ See Ad on page 9.
6400 Fannin, Suite 2110 Houston, TX 77030
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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 today sought 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 latest in minimally invasive injection therapy to Dupuytren’s sufferers. The recovery time of this outpatient injection procedure is much faster and results are encouraging to orthopedic specialists throughout the United States. 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 led 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, among the first medical specialists on the ground following the devastating earthquake in Haiti, remain committed to helping improve quality of life in the Fort Bend community as well as those less close to home. For more information, contact David H. Hildreth MD at Richmond Bone & Joint Clinic located at 15035 SW Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478, near Williams Trace Blvd. Call (281) 3441715 /(877) 702-MYMD or visit www. davidhildrethmd.com. ★
NEW LOCATION
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Advertorial
Fort Bend’s Finest In Medicine Seven Things Young Men Should Do Now to Protect Against Cancer
Dr. Greg Linney, D.D.S. Cosmetic and Family Dentistry
Dr. Greg Linney and his staff set themselves apart by focusing on customer service and long term dental health. The doctor and his friendly staff take the time to listen to ALL of your oral health concerns. Equipped with a spacious high-tech facility, they utilize the latest tools and technology available to provide patients with the best in oral health care and cosmetic dentistry. By merging patient care with technology, they are able to provide the best care available while focusing on each patient’s individual needs. Dr. Linney has been making people smile for over 25 years, and through Lumineers by Cerinate, he can restore a person’s smile without reducing tooth structure – and in only two visits with no shots and no drilling! Just imagine having a lasting smile without having to ever bleach again!! Get the smile you have always wanted – just call Dr. Linney to get your FREE digital LumiSmile makeover, and find out about monthly specials that will help you get the smile you deserve. Call today at 281-980-1733 or visit www.drlinney.com. Dr. Greg A. Linney, D.D.S., Inc. is located at 4660 Sweetwater Blvd., Sugar Land, Texas 77479. ★
Men in their 20’s and 30’s might feel invincible, but lack of knowledge and lifestyle choices in their young adult years could greatly increase their chances of developing cancer. The dangers of tobacco, overeating, heavy drinking, and a sedentary lifestyle are already well-documented, and new research indicates that unsafe sex is responsible for many infections that could lead to cancer. The reluctance of many men to visit a doctor or undergo annual physical examinations prevents their best chances for early cancer detection and effective treatment. Cancers, such as HPV-related genital cancers, testicular, lung and colon cancers, can occur in young adult men and may be caused by harmful habits that typically begin in the late teens
Get That Sizzling Summer Smile! Ask about our Lumineer Special for August Get Straighter, Whiter Teeth. Without removing healthy tooth structure.* Actual Patient
Actual Patient
Before
After
TRUST
ME
TO
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SMILE.
• LUMINEERS®. Technology so advanced it makes you smile. • Painless with no shots, no drilling. Come in • You’ll be smiling in practically no time. and receive a • LUMINEERS. They couldn’t be more perfect. FREE Lumineer
GREG A. LINNEY, D.D.S., Inc. 4660 Sweetwater Blvd., Ste 230, Sugar Land, Tx 77479 office@drlinney.com • www.drlinney.com
Consultation & FREE Digital Lumismile.
281-980-1733 All Major Credit Cards Accepted *Tooth contouring may be necessary. Individual cases may vary.
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Fort Bend’s Finest In Medicine and early 20’s. Texas Oncology–Sugar Land recommends the following seven things young adult men can do to prevent cancer: 1. Exercise regularly. 2. Eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting intake of red meat or high-fat foods. 3. Avoid tobacco smoke and using any form of tobacco. 4. Avoid heavy consumption of alcohol. Men should either abstain from alcohol or limit alcohol use to the equivalent of no more than two beers a day. 5. Avoid unsafe sexual practices. 6. Be aware of changes or unusual symptoms that could point to a problem. 7. Participate in regular physical examinations and screenings. Texas Oncology – Sugar Land is located at 1350 First Colony Boulevard in Sugar Land, Texas. For information, call 281-277-5200 or visit www.TexasOncology.com. ★
Before
It’s All About Results Timeless Plastic Surgery Center of Excellence for Cosmetic Surgery Peter Chang, M.D. Plastic surgery is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you’ll get. Don’t rely on how the outside package appears; it’s the contents that are important- IT’S ALL ABOUT RESULTS. Dr. Chang is proud to show you what you can expect by displaying HUNDREDS of his results and testimonials, not just a few. Dr. Chang believes that cosmetic surgery should be affordable for everyone. His practice is highly efficient, and he wants to pass on the savings to you. Timeless Plastic Surgery is located next to the St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital. Can you think of a safer place to have your procedure? Dr. Chang ALWAYS gives his personal cell number to ALL surgical patients so they can have access to him 24/7 after surgery. This is what he calls “Concierge Care.” Dr. Chang prides himself in being safe, honest and giving his patients the best. He has already dedicated 18 years of his life in education and training as evidenced by his two Ivy League degrees, two Doctorate degrees, and two surgical residencies. It’s as if you were getting TWO doctors for the price of one. Call us for a FREE consultation and become a TIMELESS beauty. Timeless Plastic Surgery is located at 1327 Lake Pointe Parkway, Suite 300, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Visit www.TimelessPlasticSurgery.com or call 281-242TIME (8463) . ★
Got Tummy?
Before
30% OFF
TIMELESS TUCK After
on select procedures The “Timeless Tuck” is a perfect blend of liposuction and a tummy tuck to rejuvenate the entire torso.
TIMELESS TUCK After
Free Consultations* • Concierge Care • Surgical Excellence • Beautiful Results
Timeless Plastic Surgery Center of Excellence for Cosmetic Surgery
1327 Lake Pointe Pkwy., Ste. 300, Sugar Land, TX 77478 (Next to St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital)
PETER CHANG M.D.
281-242-TIME (8463) • www.TimelessPlasticSurgery.com www.fortbend
.com • August 2011
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Advertorial
Fort Bend’s Finest In Medicine Fact and Fiction of Varicose Veins! There are some urban myths tangled with true facts that resonate among varicose vein patients. Through scientific research, Sugar Land Vein Specialists will clarify some of these myths. Varicose vein and family history … FACT Forty-two percent of patients with varicose veins have direct relatives with venous disease. It is more common in females than males with a ratio 1:10 in patients younger than 30 and 1:3 in patients older than 70. Crossing your legs will result in varicose veins … FICTION While crossing your legs often and for long periods of time will compress the veins resulting in increased venous pressure that may result in varicose veins, it has never been scientifically proven. There are non-surgical treatments for varicose veins … FACT There are few substances that seem to inhibit the inflammatory chemical that damages the veins. Among them are MFPP (Daflon) and OPC (Pycnogenol). Although they can slow the process, they rarely will stop varicose veins. It is safe to have other surgical procedures at the same time as varicose vein treatment … FICTION Performing combined surgical procedures with endovenous laser treatment increases the chances of deep vein blood clots. Recent papers show that 4 weeks after laser venous ablation of varicose veins, the healing process is not complete; however, scar tissue is present within the vein. As long as there are no blood clots, the patients have no activity restrictions and may be suitable for other interventions. Nevertheless, every doctor needs to decide when they are comfortable performing additional procedures. For more information, contact Sugar Land Vein Specialists at www.slveins.com.H
SUGAR LAND
S
VEIN SPECIALISTS
SUGAR LAND VEIN SPECIALISTS 4660 Sweetwater Blvd Suite 130 Sugar Land, TX 77479
281-201-1588
• The practice dedicated exclusively to the treatment of varicose veins. • Quality time in every single visit. • Most insurance companies cover varicose vein treatment. • Our goal is to make every patient feel comfortable and safe. • You will always be taken care of by the same physician, no need to reintroduce yourself to the doctor on call. • We are the vein clinic of choice in Fort Bend County.
BEFORE
AFTER
FREE Vein Screening by Appointment.
Ulises Baltazar, M.D., FACS, RVT Board Certified Vascular Surgeon, Registered Vascular Technologist Fellow of the American College of Surgeons Registered Physician in Vascular Interpretation Graduated from the Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine
www.SLVeins.com • Visit our website and find us on Facebook Advertorial
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Dr. Braunreiter Joins Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas (MOST) welcomes Dr. David Braunreiter. Dr. David Braunreiter is dually certified in Family Medicine and Sports Medicine. He completed his fellowship in Sports Medicine at The Cleveland Clinic and has served as team physician for the Houston Dynamo Major League Soccer team for the last five years. Dr. Braunreiter has also served as the team physician for the Houston Texans, University of Houston and many Fort Bend and Houston area school districts. “It’s an honor to join the outstanding staff at Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas,” said Dr. Braunreiter. “My focus on sports medicine fits perfectly with the culture and history of MOST, and I am looking forward to being part of the team.” Dr. Braunreiter graduated from the Medical College of Wisconsin and performed his residency at Deaconess Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri. He also completed a Fellowship in Primary Care Sports Medicine at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio before returning to Houston to begin his practice. Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas features one of the largest groups of board-certified and fellowship-trained specialists in Sugar Land. MOST physicians provide general and sports-related orthopedic care, including sub-specialties in hand and upper extremity, foot and ankle, sports medicine, total joint replacement and diseases and deformities of the spine. Dr. Braunreiter will continue to see patients at his Lake Pointe address, as well as at MOST located at 1201 Brooks Street, Sugar Land, Texas 77478. For an appointment with Dr. Braunreiter, or one of the MOST physicians, call 281-494-MOST (6678). H
Fort Bend’s Finest In Medicine Rediscovering Health, Peace and Balance in Life Anand Vyas, Ph.D., LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor), also known as Dr. V., has a passion to help heal his clients from the inside, so they can truly feel their best and live with abundance and happiness. He specializes in showing children, adolescents, adults and geriatrics how to reach their full potential and how to experience total health by using innovative and powerful methods of psychotherapy, counseling, neurofeedback, therapeutic hypnosis, medical meditation, relaxation therapy and yoga therapy/ breathing exercises. Psychotherapy/Counseling: Psychotherapy consists of a group of techniques for treating mental health, emotional and some psychiatric disorders. Challenges in our lives may lead to depression, anxiety, isolation and other health problems. One can explore one’s alternatives, build on his/her strengths, and develop new skills through counseling. One can cope more easily with chal-
lenges faced in life, if one can identify one’s feelings and ways of thinking. Neurofeedback: It is a safe, natural, comfortable, effortless, enjoyable, drugfree, and non-invasive approach to help one use his/her brain and central nervous system to make quick, positive, long-lasting changes in his/her life. It stabilizes the nervous system, so one can feel at peace and enjoy better sleep, memory, concentration, self-esteem, creative, athletic, academic and work performance. Meditation: Meditation can give one a sense of balance that benefits both one’s physical and emotional well-being. Research shows that these benefits continue even after a meditation session ends. If one is feeling at peace, then one’s ability to face and deal with life’s challenges increases. Some research suggests that meditation may help conditions such as: allergies, anxiety disorders, asthma, binge eating, cancer, depression, fatigue, heart disease, high blood pressure, pain, sleep
problems, and substance abuse. Therapeutic Hypnosis: It is used to improve one’s overall health and is different from “stage hypnosis” used by entertainers. No one can hypnotize one against their will. It is used to control addictions to drugs, alcohol, smoking and food. It may help with anxiety, insomnia, phobias, asthma, irritable bowel syndrome and obesity. Research has also found that it can reduce cancer-related pain, labor pain, nausea, and vomiting. Breathing Exercises: Breathing exercises have been shown to positively affect immune function, hypertension, asthma, autonomic nervous system imbalances, and psychological or stressrelated disorders (Jerath, 2006). It improves respiratory and cardiovascular function and improves physical and mental health. For further information, call (832) 5492067, email dr.anandvyas@gmail.com or visit www.anandvyas.com. H
FCCS Anand Vyas, Ph.D., LPC, NCC, CMMC www.anandvyas.com (832) 594-2067
Counseling & Consulting services
• Psychotherapy • Counseling • Neurofeedback • Clinical hypnosis • Medical meditation • Relaxation therapy • Yoga therapy/breathing techniques Our services can help with: Depression, anxiety, phobias, mood disorders, ADD/ADHD and panic attacks Developing essential skills to live an alcohol, drug and tobacco free lifestyle Reducing cravings for “unhealthy” foods and helping one who is on a special diet program/plan Preparing mentally for a successful surgery and speeding up recovery after surgery/treatment Pain, anger and stress management
Coping with symptoms of menopause Coping with labor pain and anxiety Sleep disturbances Motivating students to achieve academic success Life-success/assertiveness coaching Improving self-esteem Discovering a meaningful and inspirational life purpose Mind-Body-Emotional-Spiritual Wellness
To schedule a complimentary 20-minute consultation or to schedule an appointment, please give us a call at (832) 549-2067 or email us at dr.anandvyas@gmail.com LOCATIONS:
1) 1437 Highway 6, Suite 100, Sugar Land, TX 77478 2) 11999 Katy Freeway Suite 392, Houston, TX 77079 www.fortbend
.com • August 2011
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Advertorial
Fort Bend’s Finest In Medicine Commitment to Excellence and a Goal for Your Dental Health that will Make You “SMILE” At Smiles of Riverstone, they provide compassion, care, and understanding to their patients. The family practice treats all age groups, and the staff works well with children and people with special needs. They create a painless and positive atmosphere and utilize state-of-the-art equipment in a sterile environment. The quality of care to patients is continually improved through educating their employees. At Smiles of Riverstone, they have a commitment to excellence and a goal of your dental health. Dr. Jerri Vo is a resident of Fort Bend County and has been providing quality dental care for the residents of the Greater Houston area for the past 8 years. She received her D.D.S. degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio with top honors and awards for excellence in clinical dentistry. Dr. Vo also completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency program at the Veterans Hospital in San Antonio where she gained experience in cosmetic dentistry, dental implants and complex restorative dentistry. She is certified in various sedation techniques. Dr. Vo’s ongoing pursuit of continuing education allows her to stay abreast of the latest advances in dentistry. She is currently seeking fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry. Smiles of Riverstone provides the following services: • Digital x-rays • In-office whitening • Dental implants • Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) • Dental emergencies • Cleanings and prevention (same day treatment) • Periodontal therapy and extractions • Dentures and partials • Cosmetic dentistry • Extended hours For more information, call 281-261-3332 or visit SmilesofRiverstone.com. H
Located behind Kohl’s in the Offices of Riverstone
Family Dentistry Gentle and Relaxing Environment State-of-the-art Technology with High Quality Patient Care Extended Hours Digital X-rays Oral Sedation Speaks Spanish & Vietnamese www.SmilesofRiverstone.com
281-261-3332
Annual Promotion Returns to Sugarland Eye & Laser Center for the Summer Sugarland Eye & Laser Center, Fort Bend’s iLASIK 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 3 years, we have had great success with this promotion. It allows us to make premium iLASIK 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 in a safe and effective manner,” explains Dr. Khokhar, medical director. It’s simple. Suppose you have iLASIK. A family member or friend of yours can have iLASIK 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 iLASIK at an amazing 50% off. iLASIK is the most advanced laser vision correction available. The technology is used on the Hubble telescope. NASA astronauts and Air Force fighter pilots are approved for iLASIK. 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, 2011. Restrictions apply. H See Ad on page 5.
4706 Riverstone Blvd. Ste 100 Missouri City, TX 77459 All PPO insurances, Medicaid, and Texas Healthspring accepted.
Advertorial
Friends & Family Half-Price iLASIK Pricing Is Back
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Fort Bend’s Finest In Medicine Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists
Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists and Dr. Lee specialize in adult and pediatric reconstructive foot and ankle surgery including bunions, hammertoes, nerve decompression, ankle instability and tendon repair. We also offer in-office Ultrasound guided noninvasive foot and ankle procedures for treatment of plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, tendon injuries, joint pain and arthritis. If you experience tingling or numbness in your toes, or sometimes feel like you are walking on a pebble, you may have a neuroma. A neuroma usually forms due to an irritation of a nerve passing between the bones in your foot. Tight, narrow shoes and high-heels may aggravate this condition. Initial treatment is usually effective, simple, and non-surgical. Be sure to let our staff or Dr. Lee know if you experience this condition. We are proud to be one of the few locations in Texas to offer the new PinPointe FootLaser, recently introduced after years of research and development for Fungal nails. Most commonly seen on the large toes, these changes can occur on any or all of the nails. The laser solution was developed by researching various spectrums of light to determine the one that would pass through the nail without damaging it, yet be able to vaporize the germs and kill the fungus that lives under the nail. The PinPointe FootLaser is a major leap forward in medical technology to safely treat toenail fungus. If you experience any nail fungus symptoms such as thick, brittle or discoloration, please ask our staff for a complimentary laser consultation. For more information, contact Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists and Y. Bryan Lee, D.P.M., FACFAS at 281-242-3338 (FEET) or visit ADVANCEDFOOTDOCS.COM. H
Informed Patients Choose Board Certified Podiatrist
DR. Y BRYAN LEE For All Their Foot Health Needs We Are Pleased To Announce We Now Offer...
Patented Laser Technology Which Kills Toenail Fungus
fda
appro
Proven clinical results Painless without anesthesia No harmful UV radiation Quick and safe No drugs or side effects Usually requires only one treatment
ved
Non-Surgical Shockwave Treatment For Heel Pain High Success Rate Painless No Anesthesia Required No Down Time
(281) 242-FEET (3338)
Locations in Sugar Land & Southwest Houston
www.AdvancedFootDocs.com DENTURES -THAT-FIT! Esthetic, Natural Looking, Custom Dentures Made for Each and Every Patient by a PROSTHODONTIC SPECIALIST. SPECIALIST . 2 Locations to Serve You! Sugar Land/Richmond Area and Medical Center. thedoctor@denturesthatfit.com
713-520-8400
www.fortbend
.com • August 2011
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Advertorial
Fort Bend’s Finest In Medicine Your Doctor, Your Special Care The choice of a medical provider for you and your family is one of the most important decisions to be made! South Texas Medical Clinics understands that a doctor’s reputation and quality of care is very important in making the right decision. What do you need in a doctor? A doctor who listens and is responsive to your needs, a quality medical provider? What’s important for you at a doctor’s office? Good support staff, on-site laboratory and x-ray, convenient office hours? All that is available and more at South Texas Medical Clinics, PA! Rosenberg’s STMC office is located just down the road from BF Terry High School and Brazos Town Center. Convenient Care opens at 7 a.m. and until 9 a.m., you can walk in, without an appointment, to receive medical care for those minor inconveniences when you wake up issues like colds, flu, or stomach problems. Convenient Care is also open on Saturday mornings from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Regular medical appointments with the specialists are available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. We can take care of your entire family’s health care needs from babies to adults. Specialties at the Rosenberg office include: Family Practice, Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Gastroenterology, Nephrology, OB/Gyn, Orthopedic Surgery, Podiatry, and Surgery. STMC Rosenberg is located at 2520 BF Terry Blvd.(FM 2218), Rosenberg, 281-342-6006. South Texas Medical Clinics, PA is a five clinic, multi-specialty medical group, with over 50 providers caring for patients in Fort Bend, Wharton and Matagorda counties. Clinics are located in Rosenberg, Needville, Wharton, El Campo and Bay City. H
Your Health is OUR Business! Internal Medicine
Kimberly Coonfield, MD
Robert Satterfield, MD
Family Practice
281.342.6006 CARDIOLOGY Carlos Zorrilla, MD Majid Basit, MD FAMILY PRACTICE Khin Aung, MD Vaishnavi Reddy, MD Benita Brown, PA-C Rachel Cieslewicz, PA-C Ed Colon, PA-C GASTROENTEROLOGY Robin Ferguson, MD INTERNAL MEDICINE Kimberly Coonfield, MD Robert Satterfield, MD
NEPHROLOGY Elzbieta Daca, MD OBSTETRICS/GYNECOLOGY Karyn A. Cumberbatch, MD Jeffery Gubbels, MD Greg Keffer, MD Marc Sangalli, MD ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY Arthur Chau, MD PODIATRY Michael Krynski, DPM SURGERY Mystan Gurkin, MD
CONVENIENT CARE Khin Aung, MD
Vaishnavi Reddy, MD
Rachel Cieslewicz, PA-C
Advertorial
Benita Brown, PA-C
Ed Colon, PA-C
Monday - Friday 7am - 9am Saturday 8am - 10am sore throat • flu • pink eye • earache • fever vomiting • diarrhea • stomach ache • runny nose colds • headache • urinary tract infection congestion • allergies • rash • cough • poison ivy
Appointments Available Monday - Friday 8am- 5pm 2520 B.F. Terry Blvd. (FM 2218) fort bend
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Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates Welcomes Dr. Eddie L. Patton, Jr. Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates is proud to welcome Eddie L. Patton, Jr., M.D., to their practice. “We are very pleased to have Dr. Patton join our group,” said Jeffrey A. Jackson, M.D., with Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates. “He shares the values-based, personal approach to quality patient care that makes Methodist unique, and this relationship such a great fit. Our patients will benefit from his calm demeanor, excellent bedside manner and superb clinical abilities.” “It’s an honor to join the outstanding staff at Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates,” said Dr. Patton, a board certified neurologist with fellowship training in neuromuscular diseases from Baylor College of Medicine. “My mission is to provide quality and compassionate neurological care to my patients, and I am committed to ensuring that I keep my patients at the forefront of advances in neurological treatments and technology.” Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates offer diagnosis and treatment of the most common – and most complex – neurological disorders. From sleep apnea, migraines, epilepsy and dementia, to complex spine, peripheral neurological disorders and neuromuscular disorders, the physicians at Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates can provide answers and options using the latest technology and therapeutic techniques backed by the resources and staff of Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates is located at 16659 Southwest Freeway, Suite 131 in Medical Office Building II. To schedule an appointment, please call 281-494-6387. H
Fort Bend’s Finest In Medicine Can My Child Wear Contact Lenses? By Veronica Carrero, O.D., for Dr. George Zaibaq’s Eye Trends @ Town Square
A frequently asked question by parents is, “Can my child wear contact lenses?” There are several different factors that are taken into consideration when determining if a child is a good candidate for contacts. Age is a factor that is taken into consideration but more important is maturity. Not all kids who are the same age are at the same maturity level. Some kids are more responsible than others and that is why parents play a significant role in deciding if their child is ready to take on this responsibility since they know their children better than anyone else. Before a parent can make an educated decision on whether or not their child is ready for contact lenses, it is wise for parents to educate themselves on what is going to be the best lens option for their child. Although there are many contact lens options available, some contact lenses may not be appropriate vision correction for your child’s vision problem. It is best to discuss with your eye care professional what options would best suit your child’s visual correction as well as their responsibility level and self-care habits. The most common soft contact lenses available are disposable contacts, which mean that they are worn for a specific amount of time and then discarded. Disposable contact lenses fall into categories on how frequently they are replaced: daily, bi-weekly, monthly, quarterly or conventional. The most common recommendation for contact lens replacement in children is daily disposable. These contacts are individually packaged for one-day use. This means that a new pair of contacts is put in every morning and discarded in the evening. This lens is a great choice for children due to lower risk of infection, sterile lens every day, no fuss with
cleaning or storing lenses, ideal for allergy suffers, and they can be used when needed. Studies have shown that daily replacements have the lowest risk of infection due to fewer bacteria likely to build up the surface of the lens. The more often you replace a lens, the better.
In summary, soft contact lenses are great for children when all factors are taken into consideration. Daily contacts are the best option to help reduce infection and keep your child’s eyes comfortable and healthy. For all eye care needs, call 281-265-2000. H
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
Helping you look AND feel your best. That’s what we do. We are committed to helping our clients achieve optimal health and a natural, more youthful look using a holistic approach to health care and medically safe aesthetics procedures. Our physician and staff are regularly incorporating the latest medically safe treatments and procedures into our services. If you are committed to feeling and looking your best, then we are here to help you. Call us today to find out how you can start living a healthy life with our wellness programs and looking your best with our aesthetic procedures. Dr. Afreen Pappa Houston Top Doc 2009
www.fortbend
281.491.1151 3527 Highway 6, Suite 250, Sugar Land, TX 77478
SUMMER SPECIAL Botox® $11/unit for New Clients Only
(minimum purchase 20 units) Offers valid until 08/31/2011. Cannot be combined with other promotional discounts.
Check out our other specials on our website at www.javanimedspa.com.
E-mail: info@javanimedspa.com • www.javanimedspa.com .com • August 2011
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Advertorial
Fort Bend’s Finest In Medicine Why Men Ignore Varicose and Spider Veins Most men suffering from varicose and spider veins forgo treatment due to some common misconceptions. They may think that if they aren’t feeling sharp pains, the problem is just cosmetic. But, the abnormal blood flow causing their varicose or spider veins is responsible for the tired, lifeless feeling in their legs that has gotten slowly worse over time. Once this process has started, it will only get worse. This is one problem that the body can’t handle on its own. Patients are routinely amazed at how much lighter and ener-
getic their legs feel once their varicose and spider veins have been treated. Another misconception is that the treatment will be painful. While this may have been true for older solutions, today we use high-tech, minimally invasive procedures, such as VNUS Closure™, that are virtually painless. In fact, no more discomfort than getting a shot. These procedures are performed in our office, and most patients return to work the next day. Finally, nearly all private insurance carriers as well as Medicare cover the cost of these
procedures. To learn more, please call 281.565.0033 or visit us on the web at HamiltonVein.com. Dr. Carlos Hamilton is a boardcertified vascular and interventional radiologist who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of vein disorders, including varicose and spider veins. He is the Medical Director of Hamilton Vein Center in Sugar Land, Texas. To find out more about vein disease and treatments available, please call 281.565.0033 or visit www.hamiltonvein.com. H
TRANSPORTATION AND IN-HOME SERVICE FOR SENIORS BY SENIORS
Our helpers are available any day, any hour of the week. We can help each person stay independent and stay at home by providing essential services including: • Companionship • Light Housekeeping • Meal Preparation • Shopping
• Doctor Appointments • House Maintenance and Small Repairs • Mobility Assistance
• Overnight Stays (24-hour care) • Affordable Rates • Other Customized Services
Mike Alexander: 281.261.8107 office • 281.797.3511 cell shsftbend@msn.com • www.seniorshelpingseniors.com Insured & Bonded
Seniors Helping Seniors Getting older isn’t easy for many folks, especially when the body, or mind, or both begin to fail. Seniors want to stay in their homes but often it’s too much work for them on their own. They may be reluctant to drive but understand the necessity of visiting their family physician regularly, keeping prescriptions current, going to physical therapy, dialysis or seeking specialized doctors to assist with health care. Fortunately, those spending their Golden Years in the Fort Bend area can call on the services of Seniors HelpAdvertorial
ing Seniors, which matches seniors who want to provide help with seniors who are looking for these non-medical services. “As our senior community grows, it just makes sense to bring seniors together,” says Mike Alexander, owner of the Ft. Bend Seniors Helping Seniors franchise with his wife Barbara. “It is so much better to get assistance from someone you feel really understands what you are going through and can relate to the issues seniors are dealing with. Those who give the care and those who receive it share a relationfort bend
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ship that enriches them both – everybody wins.” Any day, any hour Seniors Helping Seniors offers help with doctors’ appointments, transportation to physical therapy or dialysis appointments. Plus we offer companionship, light housekeeping, meal preparation, shopping, recreational activities, home maintenance, overnight stays/24 hour care plus respite care for people caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Please call Mike Alexander at 281 261-8107 for a free assessment. H
Fort Bend’s Finest In Medicine
Varicose And Spider Veins Solved! - A new breakthrough approach -
The Hamilton Vein Center offers the revolutionary VNUS Closure™ procedure. Finally, a fast and virtually pain free in-office solution that requires no
downtime and delivers instant relief from the symptoms caused by damaged veins. • • • • • • • •
Leg Pain And Heaviness Gone Immediately. Walk-In, Walk-out. No Downtime. Gentle Procedure, Virtually Pain Free. Actual Procedure Takes Only 15 Minutes. Appropriate For All Vein Sizes. Hard to Heal Surface Ulcers Resolved. Convenient Sugar Land Location. Covered By Medicare And Private Insurance.
Complimentary Consultation! 832.532.2949
H a m i l t o n Ve i n . c o m
Vision Trends Eye Care The first day of school is just around the corner, and most parents are busy making their way through a list of “todos:” ... school clothes’ shopping, appointments for immunizations and physicals, and trips to the store for pencils, pens, paper and all the other “must-haves” for the classroom - all with the intention of getting students ready for school. Is a visit to the optometrist on your list? A comprehensive eye examination for students is one of the most important “to-dos” and yet one that is often overlooked. Without an eye exam, many chil-
dren have vision problems that remain undiagnosed and may even be misdiagnosed as a learning disorder. For over half a century, the Wilkinson family name has been associated with quality eye care in the RosenbergRichmond area. Dr. Jack Wilkinson started his practice in 1949 in downtown Rosenberg. In 1973, his son, Dr. Larry Wilkinson, joined his father in the practice. Dr. Jack Wilkinson has since retired; however, Dr. Ouida Middleton joined the practice in 2003 and Dr. Faris Ohan in 2004.
Vision Trends Eye Care provides routine vision care, as well as treatment of medical eye conditions. The practice specializes in contact lenses, and the optical dispensary offers the largest selection of eyeglass frames in Fort Bend County. From their budget line to an extensive collection of designer frames, there is something for everyone. Family owned and operated, Dr. Larry Wilkinson and Vision Trends Eye Care have provided friendly, personalized service since 1949. H
Family Owned and Operated since 1949 HamiltonFortBendFocus7-11.indd 1
6/13/11 1:58:27 PM
Dr. Larry Wilkinson & Associates 4000 Avenue I * Rosenberg Therapeutic Optometrist
Larry Wilkinson O.D.
Ouida Middleton O.D.
Faris Ohan O.D. www.fortbend
281-342-4664 www.visiontrends.com .com • August 2011
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$50 off Any Complete Pair of Glasses over $250
Plano or Prescription *Cannot be used with insurance *Coupon required
Expiration 12-31-11
Advertorial
Fort Bend’s Finest In Medicine A New Look for a New Smile: Halford Orthodontics
Family Practice of Fort Bend Family Practice of Fort Bend offers down to earth, compassionate, state-of-theart care. We pride ourselves on not being owned or operated by a major medical group, insurance company, or hospital. This provides us the ability to care for you and your entire family without restrictions. In fact, we even provide house calls to elderly or disabled patients who can no longer make it in to the doctor’s office. We have many families that span generations who have entrusted their care to us. We consider it a lifetime privilege to be able to make a difference in your life by providing high quality and cost-effective medical care. Dr. McClendon has been in practice for over thirty years. Dr. Galloway grew up and trained here in Sugar Land and has been in practice for one year. Besides our local roots, Family Practice of Fort Bend provides a home town feel. You will not be greeted by high rise buildings, parking garages, elevators, or crowded parking lots. We strive to keep your waiting time low and your satisfaction high. We not only handle most medical conditions but are able to guide you through the medical maze on those we do not. We also provide preventative care and treatment for weight loss, food-sensitivity testing, hormone replacement and men’s health, including low testosterone management. Most insurance plans are accepted including MEDICARE. Appointments are usually available on the same day and ‘walk-in’ patients are welcome. Book an appointment online by visiting our website at www.familypracticefortbend.com or call 281-265-3456. H
Family Practice of Fort Bend A Tradition of Caring for You and Your Family
We’re here for you when you need us... • Physicals • Immunizations • Testosterone Testing for Men. • Preventative & Acute Care. Brent W. Galloway, M.D. & Robert L. McClendon, M.D.
SERVING FORT BEND COUNTY FOR OVER 33 YEARS. Dr. McClendon has generously devoted his time and talents to the community. Dr. Galloway was born and raised in Fort Bend.
Advertorial
Medicare Accepted Same day appointments are always available.
281-265-3456 14825 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 fort bend
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Halford Orthodontics is proud to announce a very special event. On August 17th, we are hosting Invisalign Day and would like to extend to you the generous offer featured in our ad. Invisalign has made great strides with the 592 patients we have treated with this highly innovative and technologically advanced product. At Halford Orthodontics, we know that nothing is more important to you than delivering great results. Now, Invisalign is proud to introduce Invisalign G3 – innovations engineered to deliver even better clinical results. Three areas of improvement with Invisalign G3 are as follows: Precision Cuts: Invisalign aligners are now available with Precision Cuts – pre-cuts designed to help treat dental overbites and underbites, eliminating the need to manually cut aligners. Smart Force™: SmartForce™ features are attachments and aligner features engineered to achieve predictable tooth movements. Improvements to Optimized Attachments and the Power Ridge™ make them applicable to more complex tooth movements. Improved Software: The new ClinCheck 3.0 software is now simpler, more intuitive and designed to make communication easier and reduce ClinCheck treatment plan revisions with a simple, customizable design providing more viewable area for the 3D animation. Invisalign has made great advances, and we, too, have made advances by offering more amenities including: • New patient room with Smart Board Technology for more interactive case consultations with patients and parents • New gaming room featuring two XBox 360’s • Custom coffee bar • Internet Hot Spot featuring two computers for patients to access the web • A QR smart phone tag for easy access to our web site Make your appointment today by contacting us at www.halfordorthodontics. com, 281-980-8351, or scan our QR tag found in our ad. H
Fort Bend’s Finest In Medicine How to Keep Your Skin Looking its Best this Summer By Michael L. Sonabend, M.D. Heading into summer, everyone is trying hard to look their best. And, with the sun at its strongest, there is no more important time to think about your skin’s health. Here are some tips to keep your skin looking great. First, if you haven’t been screened for skin cancer, now is the time. I am amazed how many times someone comes to me for a cosmetic consultation, and we find a precancerous or cancerous spot. Just like the rest of you, your skin needs routine check-ups. It may sound obvious, but the absolute most important step in preventing photo damage is a moisturizing sunscreen every single day. The moisturizer will help keep skin hydrated to immediately minimize fine lines and sunscreen will prevent further damage. Along with sunscreen in the morning, a medication called a retinoid at bedtime is the cornerstone for reversing the aging process. Over the counter versions called Retinol are available, but the most effective versions are only available by prescription. Absolutely nothing bought in a department store can match the effectiveness of prescription retinoids. Once you are using sunscreen and a retinoid, antioxidants and glycolic acid can improve skin tone. Antioxidants prevent free radical damage while glycolic acids exfoliate the skin to give a healthy glow. Of course, if the skin has been neglected too long, more aggressive intervention may be needed. Prescription hydroquinone products can reduce pigmentation, lasers can wipe away some sunspots and fine lines, and Botox and filler can erase unwanted wrinkles. For more information, contact US Dermatology located at 15200 Southwest Freeway, Suite 150, Sugar Land, TX 77478, call 281-240-4313 or visit www.usdermatology-mg.com. H
Save the Date Wednesday, August 17
Invisalign Day • FREE Consultation and Exam. • Start Treatment on Same Day & get an iPad 2 or $500 Apple Store credit. • Call NOW to Reserve a Spot.
FREE iPad 2 with Every Treatment!
Hurry... Only 15 Seats Available! Go back to school with a new iPad 2 and a great NEW SMILE!
We’re Moblie! Send this offer to your phone:
281-980-8351
4503 Sweetwater Blvd., Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.fortbend
.com • August 2011
59
Text “NEWSMILE” to 41411 or scan QR Tag! Advertorial
Fort Bend’s Finest In Medicine The Benefits of Going to Pro
Nath Healthcare Business Solutions
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 selfesteem. 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 they should. Having this advanced training, Dr. Rimes can improve your appearance by fixing broken, discolored or missing teeth. Dr. Rimes’ training also gives patients the opportunity to switch from dentures to permanent implant supported teeth in just one day. 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 at an accredited institution beyond dental school. People seeking cosmetic, reconstructive, or implant retained 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 state-of-the-art procedures and techniques, such as: cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, complete and removable partial dentures, traumatic injuries, snoring and sleep disorders. By using his extensive training in cosmetic dentistry along with the latest techniques in dental implants, Dr. Rimes can help you create a smile that looks and feels natural and attractive. If you are considering a change to a healthy smile, please give Dr. Stuart Rimes a call at 281.313.1565 or visit our website at www.rimesdds.com. H
If you are a physician in private practice, you have many things to think about lately…. health care reform, electronic health records (EHR), ICD-10, correct coding, reduced reimbursements, the various incentives and disincentives from Medicare, RAC audits, human resources, etc…. and of course, most importantly, the well being of your patients. With ever increasing demands placed on physicians, having the right partner to maneuver these challenges is essential. Locally owned and operated by business professionals, Nath Healthcare Business Solutions is a trusted partner to many physicians in the greater Houston area for their revenue cycle management needs. Our solutions include outsourced billing and collections, web-based practice management and electronic health record (EHR) systems, voice recognition software, and IT networking and support. With our solutions, your office can check patient insurance eligibility automatically, migrate to EHR affordably and with less frustration, and get paid for every claim. Our novel approach to revenue cycle management leverages technology, processes, and people to get you the best results. If you are looking for an easier way to practice medicine, call us today at 713-772-6690 to set-up a free consultation to see how we can help. You can also visit us on the web at www.nath-mds.com. H
Doesn’t your smile deserve a specialist’s care? 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 state-of-the-art procedures and techniques, such as: cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, complete and removable partial dentures, replacing lost or loose teeth, jaw joint problems (TMD), traumatic injuries, snoring and sleep disorders, oral cancer reconstruction and continuing care.
Replacing missing, discolored teeth!
before
Restore your smile with cosmetic dentistry!
STUART RIMES, DDS, MS
CROWNS, IMPLANTS, COSMETIC, RECONSTRUCTIVE DENTISTRY BOARD CERTIFIED PROSTHODONTIST
before
15958 CITY WALK, SUITE 230 • SUGAR LAND, TX 77479 www.RimesDDS.com • e-mail: srimes@comcast.net
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Actual Patients
281-313-1565 Advertorial
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Fort Bend’s Finest In Medicine Hair Removal for Men Unwanted hair is not only a female affliction. Facial and body hair in men is often considered a sign of virility; however, excessive hair usually of the back, neck, or shoulders make some men self-conscious, especially during swimsuit season. Today there are more options for decreasing or eliminating unwanted hair. In addition to shaving and waxing, which offer only temporary solutions, there is a light therapy, IPL, which offers a permanent reduction of unwanted hair. Intense pulse light therapy is performed in the office with minimal discomfort and no down time. Darker colored hair usually responds the best. Most hair is permanently removed; any residual hair is typically much softer, finer and grows much slower. It is never too late to feel more comfortable and confident with one’s body image. For additional information or to schedule a complimentary consultation, call 281.232.6700. Victor J. Atun, MD is located in at Memorial Herman Sugar Land - Medical Plaza 1, 17510 W. Grand Parkway S., Sugar Land, Texas 77479. H
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Billing and Collections | IT Services and Support EHR and Practice Management Software
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You want to help people live longer, healthier lives. Yet running a medical practice grows more complex everyday.
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Benefiting Literacy Council of Fort Bend
713-772-6690
10701 Corporate Drive, Ste. 228 Stafford, TX 77477
Tickets & Sponsorship opportunities 281-690-4242 or www.FortBendFocus.com
info@nath-mds.com www.nath-mds.com www.fortbend
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Advertorial
Fort Bend Focus Magazine Hosts 4th Annual JEWELS of Fort Bend
Joyous, Extraordinary Women Enriching Lives
F
ort Bend Focus Magazine, the county’s premier magazine showcasing people, places and happenings, is pleased to announce their fourth annual event honoring five extraordinary women whose contributions to our community make them real gems. Fort Bend Focus Honors the JEWELS of Fort Bend is scheduled for Thursday, September 22, 2011 with a premier Luncheon and Style Show honoring this year’s Fort Bend JEWELS – five Joyous, Extraordinary Women Enriching Lives. Fort Bend Focus Magazine is pleased to introduce the five JEWELS selected for 2011: Doris Gurecky, Pat Hebert, Cari Middaugh, Judy Schmid and Lucia Street. From the Fort Bend Junior Service League to the Literacy Council of Fort Bend to the Richmond State School, these women are all committed to making our community the best place to live, work and raise our families. Fort Bend Focus Magazine is pleased to recognize their efforts while doing something that they all feel passionate about: supporting our community. Proceeds from Fort Bend Focus Honors the JEWELS of Fort Bend will be invested back into our community by supporting a vital organization: The Literacy Council of Fort Bend County. This non-profit organization’s mission is to end inter-generational cycles of illiteracy in Fort Bend County by improving adult literacy skills and generating community-wide literacy awareness. Formed in 1987, the Literacy Council serves adults who have made the commitment to help themselves change their lives. Welltrained and supported volunteers work one-on-one with adults needing help in basic literacy and on a small group basis in English language skills. Since 1987, the Literacy Council has served over 23,000 adults and has donated 591,000 tutoring and learning lab hours to assist
The 2011 Jewels of Fort Bend: Doris Gurecky, Judy Schmid, Cari Middaugh, Pat Hebert and Lucia Street.
with decreasing the 24% rate of individuals lacking basic literacy skills in Fort Bend County. (National Center for Education Statistics (NCES); January 2009) “As a publisher, literacy is vital to success of not only our business, but to the success of our community as a whole. With the illiteracy rate of Fort Bend County exceeding 20%, the valuable work of the Literacy Council is making a difference in our work force,” said Lisa Fredrickson, publisher of Fort Bend Focus Magazine. Since 1987, the Literacy Council has returned approximately $15,000,000 to the community in tutoring hours alone. “This year, the Literacy Council will spend approximately 22,000 hours tutoring citizens, and we are honored to assist with this much-needed and worthwhile program.” While the event will be the highlight of Fort Bend Focus Honors the JEWELS of Fort Bend, the September magazine will feature a beautiful spread showcasing photos and biographies of the five JEWELS along with sponsors of the event. Distributed directly to Fort Bend homes each month, as well as in rack distribution at businesses and retailers throughout the county, the special Fort Bend Focus fort bend
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Honors the JEWELS of Fort Bend section will pay homage to these special women and their community service. “Because of the efforts of the wonderful, caring individuals who devote so much of their time and talent to our philanthropies, especially these five women – Doris, Pat, Cari, Judy and Lucia – our community is a better place,” said Fredrickson. “Fort Bend Focus Magazine is proud to honor their commitment to Fort Bend County and be able to give back to the community that has so graciously supported us.” This year, Fort Bend Focus Honors the JEWELS of Fort Bend will include a raffle to further benefit the Literacy Council of Fort Bend. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the raffle will benefit the non-profit agency. Tickets for the raffle are $20 each and are available for pre-purchase or for purchase at the event. Fort Bend Focus Honors the JEWELS of Fort Bend is open to the public and will be held at Safari Texas Ranch in Richmond from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm on Thursday, September 22nd. In addition to the Luncheon and Style Show, event sponsors will be treated to a private Champagne Reception with the JEWELS prior to the event. Sponsors to date include Emerald Sponsor Safari Texas Ranch; Ruby Sponsors Alisa Murray Photography, Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land, Hardee Investment Group, J Loggins Jewelers, Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, Pamela Printing, Salon Eben and Day Spa and TexasDirectAuto.com; Corporate Gems Neil & Carolyn Banfield, Robert C. III & Carole D. Brown, County Judge Bob Hebert, Johnson Development, May W. Tape, DDS and Null-Lairson, PC and Sapphire Sponsor Sandra Templeton, M.D. Sponsorships range from $1,000 to $7,500 and include magazine advertising. Individual tickets are available for $65. For sponsorship information or to purchase tickets, contact Fort Bend Focus Magazine at 281-6904242 or visit www.FortBendFocus.com. H
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2011 Sugar Plum Market Co-chairs. Front row: Cari Middaugh & Jana Baumann. Back row: Laura Taylor, Katharine Hunton & Jill Aycock.
FBJSL Invites Sponsors to go “Walkin’ In a Winter Wonderland” for 2011 Sugar Plum Market The Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) invites the community to join them as they go “Walkin’ in a Winter Wonderland” for the 11th annual Sugar Plum Market presented by title sponsor Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. With the continued support of the City of Stafford, the event will again be hosted at the Stafford Centre Performing Arts Theatre and Convention Center. Market dates have been set for Friday, November 4th and Saturday, November 5th, with new extended hours for Preview Night on Thursday, November 3rd. This year, FBJSL is excited to treat sponsors and their guests to a fresh new Market experience. With such a positive response to its debut last year, we have extended the shopping hours for Preview Night from 6pm to 10pm. An additional VIP shopping hour from 5pm to 6pm is reserved for Market sponsors, along with complimentary package check so that our generous donors can shop more freely with fewer bags weighing them down. Many sponsorship opportunities are available, ranging in amount from $250 to $5,000 with a variety of benefits suited to both individuals and businesses. For information on sponsorship opportunities, vendors, or purchasing tickets to the 2011 Sugar Plum Market, please visit www.sugarplummarket.com, call 281636-6272 or e-mail info@fbjsl.com.
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“Our Family Serving Your Family” Funerals • Cremations Payment Plan Options 281-238-4443
Headliners Continued on page 64
Serving Fort Bend and Surrounding Counties www.fortbend
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Johanna Compean & Eddie P. Compean
Headliners Continued from page 63
Don’t Face Breast Cancer Alone! Support group sessions for breast cancer patients and survivors are now being offered monthly at the HEB Sienna Community Room, 8900 Highway 6, Missouri City, TX 77459. These life-skills sessions for women diagnosed at any stage of breast cancer are offered free of charge by Reconstruction of a Survivor, a non-profit breast cancer support and educational organization, in partnership with Susan G. Komen for the Cure-Houston Affiliate. Sessions are held from 7:00 to 8:00 pm. A light meal will be served. Upcoming dates are: August 18, September 29, October 20, November 17, and December 15, 2011. The dates for 2012 will be determined in mid-November. “The sessions help women at any stage of diagnosis and treatment understand that breast cancer affects them emotionally and spiritually, as well as physically. Our mission is to ensure through information, empowerment and peer support, that no one faces breast cancer alone,” explains
Dr. Jennie Bennett, a 15-year breast cancer survivor and founder of Reconstruction of a Survivor. The sessions will feature Reconstructon of a Survivor’s curriculum: “Navigating Life’s Roadmap After Breast Cancer.” Women from all backgrounds, ages and geographic regions who have been recently diagnosed with breast cancer or are undergoing treatment or have completed treatment are welcome at any time. Session topics include: • It’s okay to cry • Joy is around the corner • What are you afraid of: The Fear Factor • I will forgive • How can I function when I feel overwhelmed? “Many women with breast cancer have found caring support and information
Dr. Jennie M. Bennett and David Solis.
from sharing their experiences with fellow survivors. Breast cancer patients need to find others who have had a similar walk and our support sessions helps to fill this unique need,” says Dr. Bennett. Mr. David Solis, General Manager of HEB Sienna, states “I am more than happy to do what I can to help the community” and wholeheartedly supports the missions of Reconstruction of a Survivor and Susan G. Komen for the Cure. To register for the sessions, please email drjbennett@roasurvivor.org or call (713) 741-4422. H
Celebrate 20 With 20 Fort Bend Symphony Announces 20th Season To thank the community for its 20 years of support, the Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra is offering 20 percent off its 2011-2012 four-concert subscription series. This special offer for FBSO’s 20th anniversary season is good through Aug. 31, 2011. The 20th anniversary subscription series includes an exciting collection of concerts filled with audience requests: In An English Garden on Sunday, Oct. 16, 2011. Featuring music of Elgar, Walton, and the Beatles. Deck the Halls on Sunday, Dec. 4, 2011. Featuring holiday favorites. Far Away Places on Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012. Featuring music from around the world. On Broadway on Sunday, May 20, 2012. Featuring music from around the world.
The Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra. Photo by J. Steiner Roberts.
All concerts are held at 2 p.m. at the lovely 1,100-seat Stafford Centre located at 10505 Cash Road at Murphy Road in Stafford. Parking is free. Season Ticket Information Season subscriptions to the Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra’s 20112012 four-concert series are priced at fort bend
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$40, $60 and $100 and are available at fbso.org or by calling 281.276.9642. Discounts are provided for seniors over 55, military with I.D., and students. Children 12 and under are free when accompanied by an adult, but must have reserved seats. H Headliners Continued on page 66
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Norma at 832-230-7004
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To Advertise, Call: Norma Cavazos • 832-230-7004 ncavazos@fortbendfocus.com www.FortBendFocus.com
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Fort Bend Cares Gives to 29 Charities The excitement was palpable at the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce when Fort Bend Cares gathered to present grants totaling $140,000. Now entering its seventh year, Fort Bend Cares is making a powerful impact on the charities of Fort Bend County. Twenty-nine worthy organizations that serve disadvantaged children and youth of Fort Bend received a check. To date, Fort Bend Cares has distributed approximately $720,000 in designated grants. The grant applications are evaluated and put through rigorous analysis by a group of 30 local citizens who serve on the grant committee. Jill Curtis, Executive Director, said, “We are thrilled to be able to support so many committed organizations that are doing such valuable work. 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 Broth-
Fort Bend Cares presents grants totaling $140,000 to 29 Charities. ers/Big Sisters, Boy Scouts of America, Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Houston, Breath of Life Children’s Center, Casa de Esperanza de Los Ninos, Catholic Charities/Mamie George Community Center, Cinderella-Cinderfella Project, Communities in Schools, CSTEM Teacher and Student Services, Inc., DePelchin Childrens Center, East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry, ESCAPE Family Resouce Center, Fort Bend Community Partners Rainbow Room, Fort Bend County Child Advocates, Fort Bend County Womens Center, Fort Bend Family Health Center, Fort
204th TAOG – after opening the packages.
Troop 2 Troop Tens of thousands of American service members are deployed in hostile and remote regions of the world, including the Middle East, Afghanistan, and on ships throughout international waters. The physical conditions they must endure are difficult, and they may be separated from loved ones for long periods of time.
Rainbow Stars Service Unit Girl Scout Troop 147, consisting of 13 girls in the 10th and 11th grade, wanted to do something special for the men and women who are serving overseas. They wanted to lift morale and put smiles on faces by sending care packages. By way of a friendship with Command Serfort bend
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Bend Family Promise, Fort Bend Lawyers Care, Fort Bend Regional Council on Substance Abuse, Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council, Houston Museum of Natural Science of Sugar Land, Men For Change, Parks Youth Ranch, Pooh’s Panda Special Needs Academy, S.I.R.E. , Soaring Eagles Ministries, Texana Center and YMCA. Mark your calendars now for the 2012 “Road Trip to Rio – The Ultimate Lounge Experience” on Feb. 11, 2012 at Fluor in Sugar Land. More information on Fort Bend Cares can be found at fortbendcares.org.
geant Major John Ivy of 204th TAOG, they found the opportunity. The Girl Scout Troop gathered two boxes worth of goodies and added a healthy dose of morale support in the form of personal written and typed letters for the troops to read. Included in the boxes were wipes, beef jerky, soup mixes, floss, drink mix packets, cheese crackers, cookies and more. Lisa Rickert, assistant leader of Troop 147, said, “Sending the packets to the men and woman overseas seemed like a small thing, but the girls realized what a tremendous impact it had on the soldiers, especially the handwritten notes and messages.” Scouts of San Jacinto and the Rainbow Stars Service Unit serve nearly 800 registered girls and adults in New Territory- Sugar Land, Texas. Girl Scouts is a United Way Agency. If you are interested in joining the fun in Girl Scouting in New Territory, please contact Lisa Rickert at lisa@rickert.com. H
Start Early
to Get Ahead Balance is key for school readiness By Family Features Photo courtesy of Getty Images
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hat does being ready for elementary school really mean? It used to mean starting the first day of school with all the supplies on the list, but now we know so much more about how young children’s brains develop. More and more parents are aware of the positive effects of a high quality early childhood education for their child’s success. This knowledge has also led to extra emphasis on acquiring academic skills. Experts suggest parents take a step back and look for programs with a balanced approach to school readiness. “With young children, everything is connected: their minds, bodies and emotions; creativity, happiness, security and intellectual progress,” says Dr. Robert Needlman, author and nationally acclaimed pediatrician. “A balanced approach to readiness celebrates this reality about children. It’s our best hope for turning out students who can think, feel and act independently and effectively.”
What is a Balanced Approach to Learning? From birth through age five, development in all areas of the brain is rapid. Research suggests that the quality of interactions children experience during this essential time can have a far reaching effect on future learning and the formation of satisfactory relationships. It is true that early childhood education programs have become more learning-focused in light of the research on childhood brain development, but high quality programs take a broader perspective. The focus of a balanced early childhood education program should be on helping children develop physical, social-emotional, creative and academic skills. Nurturing guidance and attention to every part of a child’s development during this crucial stage helps children not only learn reading and math skills, but how to show compassion, independence, resilience and curiosity — all www.fortbend
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qualities that could be taken for granted, but that are taught and encouraged in a quality preschool setting. “Children who are confident, selfregulating and able to relate to others will have a better experience transitioning to elementary school, regardless of their exact reading or math skill level,” said Dr. Mary Zurn, vice president of education for Primrose Schools, a family of 220 private preschools across the country. “On the academic side, it is as important for children to be eager to learn, to ask questions and to be able to think as it is for them to know letter names and sounds and be able to solve mathematical problems.” When looking for an early childhood education program, research is the first step to selecting one that will provide your child with these lasting benefits. Dr. Zurn recommends looking for these five key factors in a preschool: Conitnued on page 72
Advertorial
Alpha Omega Gymnastics
Kids ‘R’ Kids
Alpha Omega Gymnastics has been providing Fort Bend County with quality gymnastics and tumbling instruction since 2002. Owner and operator Jerit Pogue is one of only 90 international gymnastics judges in the United States and has been coaching kids for 20 years. Alpha Omega Gymnastics teaches every level of gymnastics and tumbling from the very beginner to the elite level. Here at Alpha Omega, you will find a clean, safe, loving, and fun-filled place for everyone to learn and grow. We know that gymnastics is not just great for the body by building strength, coordination, and flexibility, but also for the mind by increasing self confidence and cognitive ability. All of the coaches here are well-trained, experienced, CPR, and First Aid certified The facility offers full gymnastics classes and tumbling classes for children ages 16 months and up. Whether you have a preschooler who wants to do gymnastics, or a high schooler who wants to try out for the cheerleading squad, we have a place for you. Our experienced coaches will make sure that your child reaches all of their goals and potential. You will be able to see marked progress in your child and keep track of it through our skill sheets that are handed out four times a year. Contact Alpha Omega Gymnastics at 281-639-2206 or visit our website for schedules and registration at alphaomegagym.net. H
Choosing a pre-school is without a doubt one of the most important decisions a family can make. By exploring all options, parents can make an educated decision and determine what makes each facility unique. At Kids ‘R’ Kids, children benefit from the latest in research-based, field-proven, early education training while incorporating play. Kids ‘R’ Kids implements a Planned, Purposeful, Play philosophy, an award-winning curriculum that works with children at specific age groups to build their language, physical, cognitive, social and emotional development, in accordance with early childhood milestones. Kids ‘R’ Kids also offers (in classroom) the TeachSmart™ Smart Board, an interactive touch screen whiteboard measuring 60” wide offering 1100+ learning activities in math, emergent literacy, social studies and science that mirror the Texas Pre-K guidelines, as well as national accreditation guidelines. Kids ‘R’ Kids is proud to share their love for teaching and is available to give school-wide tours. The experienced, dedicated staff shares a united focus on early childhood education. A low child-to-teacher ratio and age-appropriate classrooms ensure that every child has the opportunity to excel. Internet classroom cameras give parents a sense of ease, allowing them to view their child’s classroom from a secure internet connection. Kids ‘R’ Kids Private Preschools strive to provide the best educational environment for children and a safe and nurturing place that parents can feel great about. Stop in and tour any of the facilities and find out why Kids ‘R’ Kids is right for your family! For more information, please visit www. KidsRKidsFortBend.com. H
Advertorial
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SmartPhone Video of “Top Ten Reasons To Choose Kids ‘R’ Kids”
Each day brings new beginnings, and Kids ‘R’ Kids is ready to lead every child to a higher level of success. We know that children learn through experience, and so we teach hands on. When learning about apples, we don’t just color an apple – we sort them, feel them, taste them, describe them and chart them. Class time has changed since we were in school, and not all learning takes place on paper. Our AdvancED accredited program and curriculum meet and exceed state and national standards and excel in the preschool classroom to prepare your child for what lies ahead in elementary school. We strive every week to make your child smarter on Friday than she was on Monday.
Ten convenient schools located in Fort Bend Visit www.KidsRKidsFortBend.com for a Kids ‘R’ Kids near you.
Primrose School of First Colony At Primrose, “school readiness” means more than just learning how to add and spell. It means learning how to think critically, use mathematical concepts, share and show self-control – skills that support a positive transition to elementary school. The Balanced Learning® Curriculum blends academics, play and character development to nurture a lifelong love of learning that provides a foundation for future success. In addition to core academic subjects, the curriculum includes enrichment programs in music, physical activity, art, sign language, Spanish, technology and social skills. Parents choose Primrose because of its proven value in preparing children for success in school and in life. Nationally recognized assessment tools and our own research with Primrose parents show that Primrose pre-K and kindergarten students are advanced
in social skills and concept knowledge, and therefore more ready for school than many of their peers. The Bracken Assessment indicates that Primrose students perform at about twice the level of their peers and also show 1.3 times more yearly growth. Results from a survey of parents whose children went on from Primrose to elementary school show that parents rated their children above 90% in school readiness factors such as their ability to relate to peers, enthusiasm for learning, positive classroom behavior, concern and caring for others and ease of transition. Primrose School of First Colony gives children the foundation for a future filled with promise. To learn more about their proven readiness results, please contact the school at 281.565.2707 or admin@ primrosefirstcolony.com. H
Prmrs_64004 _ 7.25 x 4.75 - Rdns Gen Ad #1499 THIS AD CAN NOT BE EDITED
Each Primrose School is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose, Primrose Schools and The Leader in Educational Child Care are trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2011 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved.
Why choose Primrose for Pre-K and Kindergarten? ®
Just ask a mom. As an educator, I know what my children need in order to be ready “when they leave Primrose. My son, who attended Pre-K at Primrose, was more than ready for Kindergarten. ” — Augustus James’ Mom, Primrose Parent
Primrose School of First Colony 4605 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land, TX 77479
281.565.2707
www.primrosefirstcolony.com
Open House Sat. 8/13 from 10 am to 1 pm Advertorial 64004_Prmrs_Rdns_Ad_ID_1499.indd
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6/6/11 11:56 AM
The Real Deal… What makes Safety America different than all the other martial arts schools around? Self-defense! They just don’t talk about teaching it, they actually teach it. Hands on, real-life, street, self-defense! Lets face it, we live in a dangerous world today and when you give your child the gift of self-defense, you are arming him with the tools to help keep him safe for a lifetime. It all starts with kids four-years-old, believe it or not. They call them “Little Ninjas” at Safety America, (they are actually four-years-old) and when you watch them practicing their “stranger danger” defense techniques, you will understand why. “They know when and where to strike, what to yell and when to run,” says Bob Gifford, an eighth degree black belt. “These kids are smarter and faster than
you think and when you train them properly, you increase their chances for escaping a bad situation.” Gifford has been teaching martial arts for the past 40 years and has several successful karate schools all around Fort Bend County. He taught the “Stranger Danger” classes for the Sugar Land Police D.A.R.E. program for 10 years, so when it comes to kids, he knows what he’s doing. “It’s all about building a child’s confidence, and it takes time, practice and a mom’s dedication to bring him to class regularly. I have seen the personality of many kids change over the years from shy and withdrawn to self-assured and confident, carrying a whole new outlook on life.” Come and visit any of their four locations and try a FREE class. Call 281-980-3030 for more information. H
“My Dad says it’s about PROTECTION... My Mom says it’s about FOCUS... and I say it’s FUN!” Our classes will make children safer, but we focus on much, much more than just SELF-DEFENSE. We develop vital skills of CONCENTRATION and FOCUS, and we build CONFIDENCE and SELF-ESTEEM. We teach ANGER MANAGEMENT and NON-VIOLENT CONFLICT RESOLUTION.
SAFETY AMERICA KARATE
Try a FREE Class!
Classes for: Families • Adults • Kids (ages 4 & up) 3 LOCATIONS: First Colony • Missouri City New Territory
281.980.3030 www.KarateSugarLand.com www.fortbend
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Advertorial
International Preparatory School
INTERNATIONAL PREPARATORY SCHOOL Pre-Kindergarten – 8th Grade
OPEN HOUSE
Monday, August 15th • 6 - 8 pm Ongoing Registration for the 2011-2012 School Year
InternationalPreparatorySchool.com Integrity, Honesty and Service to Others
Available After School Programs: Homework Assistance • Art • Voice • Guitar • Piano Dance • Kid Fit • Math Club • Chess Club After School Program available until 6:30 pm.
For More Information Call: 281-208-1403 1717 Dulles Ave., Missouri City, TX 77459
Fax: 281-208-1426 • Full Care Available • Mon-Fri • 7 am - 6:30 pm
Start Early to Get Ahead ... continued from page 67
1. Focus on mastering concepts, not just memorization: Look for a preschool that teaches children to love learning. They develop an understanding of concepts through hands-on activities, play and by expressing what they have learned to others. 2. Physical Activity: P.E. or even recess can often get cut from public programs, but being physically active is key to curbing childhood obesity and to forming positive life skills. Purposeful instruction in motor skills and outdoor play are both part of a wellrounded preschool education. 3. Music: Did you know that early exposure to music not only enhances a child’s ability to create and enjoy music, but also fosters other aspects of brain development? Early exposure to music can improve IQ scores, motor coordination and social skills. Research shows that music potential needs to be nurtured with song, dance and play before age five or it is not likely to develop. An early childhood education music program supports the development of your child’s sense of rhythm, pitch, melody and motor coordination, all while having fun. 4. Character Development: Look for programs that intentionally and consistently teach your child to be honest, kind, compassionate and respectful. Social-emotional development during preschool is key to a successful transition to elementary school and lifelong healthy relationships. 5. Parent Resources: Finally, it’s important to remember that learning does not stop outside the classroom — your interactions with your child at home are equally important. Consider the resources, tips and tools that a school can offer parents. Frequent communication with your child’s teacher can give you insight into how your child is advancing and help you reinforce balanced learning at home. If you are still wondering if your child will be ready for school, just ask a mom who has been through the child care journey. H
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Parents have several choices when it comes to the education of their children. Those that visit the International Preparatory School are looking for something very specific. They are searching for a fresh philosophy and a renewed energy in teaching. Smaller class sizes rank as the number one concern. Why? Because this provides individual attention for students that require more support in some areas while addressing the needs of the gifted child. This all translates into a school where both the teachers and administration set common expectations in an open, interactive, understanding and energizing manner. Parents want a safe environment that maintains a high standard of discipline and respect, one that fosters a strong sense of community through school wide activities for all ages. Emphasis on well rounded education makes participation in extracurricular activities such as music and art, an integral part of the everyday curriculum. Studies demonstrate that healthy competition, be it through math or chess clubs, lead to a higher motivation in learning. Going to school should be an adventure. That adventure begins at age 4 at the International Preparatory School with a creative learning environment which continues through Elementary and Middle School. The curriculum aspires balanced academics while developing a strong social, physical, and moral aptitude. The International Preparatory School IS the choice many parents are making for their children. An environment that fosters the gifted and accelerated student as well as the under confident. If you have great expectations for your child, come by and experience the vibrant atmosphere at the International Preparatory School for yourself. For more information, call 281208-1403. H
Fort Bend Christian Academy Fort Bend Baptist Academy has an exciting story to tell. Beginning with seven students in 1987, the school has grown to over 850 students in grades PreKindergarten through 12 and is strategically located on 35 acres in the heart of Sugar Land, one of the fastest growing communities in the United States. In 2011-2012, the school will celebrate their 25th anniversary with a new name, Fort Bend Christian Academy, and a continued commitment to excellence in Christian education. A full-curriculum Christian school, grades PreK-12, Fort Bend Christian Academy is at the forefront of private educational providers in the community. Passionate about students and their future, Fort Bend Christian Academy faculty and staff are committed to influencing this next generation of leaders through a stringent academic curriculum that results
in producing young men and women of integrity. Upon graduation, Fort Bend Christian students are thoroughly trained and equipped to enter the finest colleges in Texas and the nation. In fact, 100% of the graduates of the class of 2011 were accepted to college, most to their first choice school. Over $4.4 million in scholarships were offered to the 93 member class, with $1.7 million in scholarship offers accepted. In partnership with over 550 school families, Fort Bend Christian provides well-balanced, awardwinning academic, fine arts, and athletics programs. Visit the elementary, middle, and/or high school campuses to see firsthand the Fort Bend Christian Academy difference! For more information, contact the Admissions Office at 281-263-9142, admissions@fortbendchristian. org, or http://fortbendchristian.org. H
“From Pre-K to graduation,
this is MY school!” Cayla, Class of 2011
Fort Bend Baptist Academy is now
Grades Pre-K – 12 281-263-9142 • www.fortbendchristian.org 1250 Seventh Street, Sugar Land, TX 77478
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The Gingerbread House Providing Private, Affordable, Quality Care in a Learning Environment Quality, affordable child care is closer than you think. Welcome to the Gingerbread House Learning Center where we have been providing quality, affordable child care to generations of Fort Bend County families on a charming and fullservice campus for the past 29 years. Family owned and operated, the Gingerbread House is a private learning center that offers developmentally appropriate programs for infants, toddlers and Pre-K children, as well as full day summer camps for K through 5th grade students. During the school year, the Gingerbread House also offers on-site after-school programs at LCISD’s Hutchison, Frost and Hubenak Elementary Schools. With an emphasis on providing both a safe and educational environment, the Gingerbread House features 2 Pre-K
classes, over two acres of outdoor space and six separate age-specific playgrounds in a picturesque, fun and friendly setting. The only learning center in Fort Bend featuring a full-time Speech/Language Pathologist on staff, the Gingerbread House has a standard of excellence in meeting all of your child’s needs as the premier facility for children aged infants to 5th grade. Caring for children is our first priority at the Gingerbread House, and providing them with opportunities to learn and grow as productive citizens is equally as important. The Gingerbread House family and staff believe in teaching by doing, and giving back to the community is paramount at our campus. The Gingerbread House has supported numerous community organizations including the Lamar Educational Awards Foundation,
Private, Affordable, Quality Care in a Learning Environment
Family owned and operated for over 29 years ■
the American Red Cross, the TEXANA Learning Center and Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels. We believe that community and family are key to developing a healthy, well-adjusted and educated child. Conveniently located just minutes from Hwy 59 and Hwy. 90, the Gingerbread House is only ten minutes from many Fort Bend neighborhoods including New Territory, Pecan Grove, Greatwood, River Park West and Kingdom Heights. Affordable, quality child care is worth the drive. Stop by our main campus at 2417 Fourth Street in Rosenberg for a complimentary tour, visit us online at www.GBHDaycare.com or call us at 281.232.9583. Let us show you the difference a private learning center can make in your child’s life. H
DANCE STUDIO
Developmentally appropriate curriculums
Pre-K Classes ■
Full Service Licensed Learning Center for Children 8 weeks to 12 years ■
Monday thru Friday: 6:30 am - 6:00 pm
Your Child is Worth the Drive!
After School On-Site Programs: Hutchison, Frost & Hubenak Elementary, M thru F: 2:40 pm - 6:30 pm Kingdom Heights
Hwy. 90 A
281.232.9583 2417 4th Street, Rosenberg, TX 77471
4th St.
www.GBHDaycare.com
Mons Ave.
Like us on Facebook Advertorial
fort bend
Ballet - Tap - Jazz - Lyrical Hip Hop - Leaps & Turns Zumba - Yoga Hip Hop Workout Classes 2011 - 2012 REGISTRATION August 10 & 11, 17 & 18, 24 & 25 4 - 7pm
Pecan Grove
Hwy. 36
Only 10 minutes from Pecan Grove, River Park West, Greatwood, Kingdom Heights, New Territory, Richmond and Sugar Land with easy access from Hwy. 59.
Learning Center: • Over 2 Acres of Outdoor Space • Six Play Grounds • Comfortable, Stimulating Classrooms • Low Child to Staff Ratios • Neighborhood Atmosphere
Richmond
Gingerbread House
River Park West Greatwood
New Territory
281-499-3921
Hwy. 59
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3643 Glenn Lakes Ln. Highway 6 • Missouri City
RobinsDanceStudio.com
Raising the Bar... Introducing SUGAR LAND GYMNASTICS AND DANCE!!! Sugar Land Gymnastics & Dance (formerly Bill Austin’s Gymnastics & Dance) is now open for classes. With new ownership comes a new focus and a highly energized approach to gymnastics in our community – we’re raising the bar! We take our gymnastics and dance programs VERY seriously, and we thank you for the opportunity to work with your kids. Each and every student in our program is special and appreciated. It is an honor and a privilege to instruct and train them during these developmental years. Our new Preschool and Recreational Program is all about how to learn gymnastics and have FUN!!! It starts with toddlers (mom & me) programs for kids ages 18 months to 2-1/2 years. Then, we have the tiny tots, ages 2-1/2 to 3-1/2, and the super tots, ages 3-1/2 to 4 years. And of course, we have bunches of gymnastics and dance classes for kids 4 – 14. Our competitive dance programs will feature Ballet, Jazz, Creative Movement, and Hip Hop. If high school cheerleading or drill team squads are your thing, our tumbling classes can get you to where you want to be. Our new, philosophy with our competitive boy’s and girl’s teams is also about FUN. Of course, we still have to set challenging goals, and follow through with the dedication and hard work to achieve them. These teams will define our success. It’s a whole new game… Let us help you “raise the bar” for your child. The NEW Sugar Land Gymnastics and Dance. For more information, please call 281-240-0999. H
Same Location
New Owner
Serious Fun Full Girls and Boys Programs. Professional staff to fit all levels of fun and competition!
USA Gymnastics Competitive Men’s and Women’s Teams.
• • • • •
DANCE Classes
Birthday Parties Summer Camp Tumbling for Cheerleading Moms & Tots classes Karate Classes (4yrs & up)
• Ballet • Hip-Hop • Jazz • Modern • Tap • Zumba
281-240-0999
16215 Lexington Blvd. (Behind First Colony Mall) • www.sugarlandgymnastics.com
Graduation Memories FBISD Graduates order DVDs of your 2011 commencement exercises at
www.fortbendgradvideos.com
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Southminster School
Fort Bend Family YMCA
Mind… Body… Spirit. Southminster School cares for the whole child. Founded in 1990 and accredited by SACS CASI, Southminster School serves children from eighteen months through fifth grade in a loving and nurturing Christian environment. A low student/teacher ratio, exceptional experienced teaching staff, and multi-sensory activities promote a challenging curriculum, exemplifying excellence. Southminster School maintains the highest quality education while promoting individual learning styles. The skills and attitudes fostered at Southminster School develop educated thinkers, respect for others, and strong leaders willing to make a difference in their world. Learning is a lifelong journey, and the voyage begins here…….. • Small class size to benefit students at all levels of learning • Safe, secure environment with emphasis on family • Curriculum focus on problem solving and higher-level thinking • Spanish, music, computers, library, physical education, and chapel • Fine Arts program: music, art, visiting professionals • Developmentally-appropriate, licensed preschool program • Preschool literacy and music enrichment classes • Morning and afternoon extended care with planned age-appropriate activities • After-school activities: computer club, sewing, karate, dance, art, tumbling, chess club, and fitness • Upward sports program with flag football, cheerleading, and soccer Southminster School is located at 4200 Cartwright Road at Brightwater in Missouri City. For more information, go to www.southminsterschool.org or call 281-261-8872 for tour appointments. H
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Stay for a Lifetime - Summer is full of fun, family outings, more time to work out and more time devoted to family. As we approach the new school year and the fast paced schedule begins, remember how important that time together is with your family. At the Y, family is foremost. And, what is most important is that at the Y you meet other wonderful people who become “extended family”. Health and well-being is much more than working out: it is a lifestyle of healthy choices for eating, for exercise and for relationships. The Fort Bend Family YMCA has something for everyone, whether you are a family with children, an individual adult, a student, a senior or a senior couple, you will find many activities in which to engage and enrich your life at the Y. We have a state-of the art Wellness Center and over 85 group fitness classes per week, as well as many programs for your kids throughout the school year. We also have various adult activities including basketball, volleyball, lap swim, Masters Swim Program and Adult Tap. We also have events throughout the year for you and your family. Our Back to School DJ Pool Party will be held on Saturday, August 13, from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm. Join us and plan to spend your school year at the Fort Bend Family YMCA fostering family, relationships and healthy living. Check out our website at www.ymcahouston.org/fort-bend-family or call the Y at 281-499-9622 to find out how to get involved. H
You have high expectations... and so do we. The Walden School is a dynamic NAEYC accredited school providing high quality programs and care for infants through private kindergarten. Walden also provides a low teacherto-student ratio in its private first and second grades, and stimulating before-and-after school care for children through age 12. Register now for Summer Camp and Fall 2011! Summer campers remain busy with themed weekly activities highlighted with enlightening and adventurous field trips, sports (swimming, gymnastics, and taekwondo), visiting guest entertainers, multicultural activities, art and crafts, reading and math enrichment, computers, games, nature explorations, and many more fun activities. Fall enrollment is underway. Walden families look forward to participation in programs like soccer and t-ball leagues, gymnastics, tap and ballet classes, and community service projects. Low teacher-tostudent ratios, long-serving tenured staff, and well-defined programs help keep Walden a nurturing and child friendly environment. You can visit The Walden School Monday through Friday and meet the director along with his experienced staff. Several programs are available to fit your family’s individual needs. The Walden School’s website is www. thewaldenschool.com. There you can connect with NAEYC’s website and find out more about accreditation, read monthly newsletters, and get news about what is happening on campus. For more information, please contact 281-980-0022 or visit www. thewaldenschool.com.H
The Walden School You have high expectations... and so do we. • Infants through Pre-Kindergarten • Private Kindergarten through 1st Grade
Visit us online or call about Fall Registration, Enrichment Programs and Summer Camp
Transportation to Area Schools Kindergarten through Age 13
www.rightchoiceforkids.org
16103-A Lexington Blvd. (behind First Colony Mall) • 6:15am - 6:45pm
281-980-0022 • www.thewaldenschool.com
reg iSte r for A Now f
for yoUtH DeVeLoPmeNt ™ for HeaLtHy LiViNg for SociaL reSPoNSibiLity
and Y ter scho ou ol, prog th sports rams !
Stay for a Lifetime
Your YMCA has a variety of health and wellness programs and special events to make family time a special time. There is something for everyone. Fitness, dance and martial arts are offered for adults, teens and youth as well as youth and teen programs including sports, cheer, art and tennis. Y After School programs in the Stafford MSD and Lamar Consolidated ISD ensure a brighter future for your child.
FORT BEND FAMILY YMCA 4433 Cartwright Road, Missouri City, TX 77459 (281) 499-9622 TW DAvIs FAMILY YMCA 911 Thompson Highway, Richmond, TX 77469 (281) 341-0791
ymcahouston.org YMCA Mission: To put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Everyone is welcome. text YMCAHouston to 41411
Not Just a stronger You, but a stronger Family. www.fortbend
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Community Calendar
August 2011
ALL MONTH LIBRARY AMNESTY PERIOD Turn in your overdue books to the Fort Bend County Libraries and late fees and fines – during this period only – will be waived. Call 281-341-2677. 1st, 8th & 15th MONDAYS, 1:30 – 3 PM NEEDLEWORK SEWING CIRCLE At Sugar Land Branch Library, 550 Eldridge. Those attending should bring supplies. Call 281-341-2677. 1st MONDAY, 6 PM GRANDPARENTS & GRANDKIDS Wii™ BOWLING NIGHT Teach your grandparents a few tricks at the Sienna Branch Library, 8411 Sienna Springs Blvd. Call 281-238-2900. 2nd, 9th & 16th TUESDAYS, 10 AM LEARN ABOUT KNITTING At George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview in Richmond. Attendees should bring supplies. Call 281-341-2677. 2nd – SEPTEMBER 20th TUESDAYS, 2 – 4 PM SWEDISH WEAVING CLASS At the First Colony Branch Library, 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land. Attend individual sessions or the whole series. Swedish Weaving is a stitching technique used to embellish linens such as table runners and dish towels. Reservations required. Call 281-238-2800. 2nd & 11th TUESDAY & THURSDAY, 10 AM FACEBOOK CLASS FOR SENIORS Attendees should have a basic working knowledge of computers and a personal e-mail account before attending the class. Tuesday, August 2 • Cinco Ranch Branch Library 2620 Commercial Center Blvd, Katy Thursday, August 11 • George Memorial Library 1001 Golfview, Richmond • First Colony Branch Library 2121 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land Call 281-341-2677. 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.
5th - 7th FRIDAY, 8 PM SATURDAY & SUNDAY, 3 PM THE WIZARD OF OZ Award-winning Fort Bend Theatre’s The Wizard of Oz at the Stafford Centre, 10505 Cash Rd. The entire family will be captivated as they travel over the rainbow with Dorothy, Toto and their friends. Call 281-208-3333 or visit www.fortbendtheatre.com.
7th SUNDAY, 1 – 4 PM BACK-TO-SCHOOL BIRTHDAY BASH Fort Bend Christian Academy is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a thank you party for all of Fort Bend County. Enjoy FREE admission to the Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land birthday treats and a few surprises. Visit www.fortbendchristian.org/ birthdaybash.
6th SATURDAY, 9 – 11 AM SATURDAY WITH THE MASTER GARDENERS Visit the gardens and talk to the volunteers who design and maintain them. Park at 1402 Band Road in Rosenberg. Visit www.fbmg.com.
13th SATURDAY, 10 AM – 4 PM SUMMER BOOK SALE Friends of the Missouri City Branch Library’s Summer Book Sale, located at 1530 Texas Parkway. Buy books ranging in price from a quarter to a dollar. Call 281-238-2100.
6th SATURDAY, 9 AM - NOON FORT BEND WOMEN’S CENTER ANNUAL SHRED DAY AND SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE Vista Bank Texas and the Fort Bend Star are teaming up to support children served by the Women’s Center. Have documents disposed of safely with the donation of three or more unused school supplies at Vista Bank Texas, 4690 Sweetwater Blvd. Donate backpacks, #2 pencils, rulers, notebooks, USB flash drives and more. Call 281-325-5000.
Ellen Vernotzy, Noel Mascarenhas, Jim Smith and Barbara Jones.
6th SATURDAY, 10 AM – 1 PM THE HONOR ROLL SCHOOL RIVERSTONE OPEN HOUSE The Missouri City Fire Department will be on site to teach fire safety. Kids, bring your swim suits for water activities. Also enjoy face painting and ice cream sundaes! The campus is located at 20417 S. University Blvd. in Missouri City. Visit www.thehonorrollschool.org.
13th SATURDAY, 8 PM MUSIC FEST 2011 BENEFITING THE FORT BEND COUNTY WOMEN’S CENTER Presented by Chevron. Featuring Mickey Thomas, formerly of Starship, and Bobby Kimball of Toto at the Stafford Centre. Enjoy food, wine, and music. For tickets, visit www.staffordcentre.com or call 281-208-6900. 344-5761.
6th SATURDAY, 1 – 3 PM LEARN ABOUT BRAZOS BEND STATE PARK’S WILDLIFE At the Missouri City Branch Library, 1530 Texas Parkway. See a baby American alligator and a corn snake. Learn about wildlife that visitors may see at the park, the park’s amenities, and other activities. Call 281-238-2100.
15th MONDAY, 1:30 PM CULINARY BOOK CLUB At the Sienna Branch Library, 8411 Sienna Springs in Missouri City. Share your interest with other food lovers. Enthusiasts of all ages are invited. Those attending can bring their own cookbooks and recipes. Call 281-238-2900.
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16th & 23rd TUESDAY, 10 AM RESEARCH FAMILY HISTORY At George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview in Richmond. An introduction to a online service on the 16th. Research African-American families on the 23rd. Receive a introduction to resources including online, microfilm, and print. Call 281-341-2608. 18th THURSDAY, 10 AM INTRODUCTORY BLOGGING At First Colony Branch Library, 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land. A handson introduction to basic skills to create and maintain a blog. Call 281-238-2800. 18th THURSDAY, 7 – 8 PM MASTER GARDENER MEETING Held at the Bud O’Shieles Community Center, 1330 Band Road, Rosenberg. Visit www.fbmg.com. 19th & 20th FRIDAY & SATURDAY, 8 AM 2011 BACK TO BASICS ONE WOMAN CONFERENCE Relax, rejuvenate, unwind and immerse in the knowledge you need to make your enterprise business-ready. Register with Focus on Women Magazine and receive 10% off with promo code OWC068. Call 281-213-9554 or e-mail events@mwhpublicrelations.com. Visit OneWomanConference.com. 19th – 21st FRIDAY, 2 – 7 PM SATURDAY, 10 AM – 5 PM SUNDAY, 11 AM – 4 PM 37TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF GLASS AND ANTIQUE SHOW & SALE PRESENTED BY THE HOUSTON GLASS CLUB Costs $10 on Friday (good all 3 days) or $6 Saturday or Sunday. At Fort Bend County Fairgrounds. Take US-59 to Hwy. 36 S and go 1/2 mile. Free Parking. Visit www.houstonglassclub.org. 20th SATURDAY, 10 AM FREE YOGA DEMONSTRATION At First Colony Branch Library, 2121 Austin Parkway. Call 281-238-2800.
Send your events via www.FortBendFocus.com. Deadline for submission is on or before the 10th of the month for the next month’s publication. All submissions are subject to the publisher’s approval, editing and space availability.
20th SATURDAY, 10 AM – 6 PM ROSENBERG ROUND-UP Featuring music, a kids’ bicycle parade, calf roping and watermelon seed-spitting contest. Watch for specials running throughout the day by the downtown merchants. Visit www.ShopRosenberg.net. 25th THURSDAY, 6 PM TIPS FOR HAVING A HEALTHIER BRAIN At the Sienna Branch Library, 8411 Sienna Springs Blvd. in Missouri City. Call 281-238-2900.
Community
CALENDAR Send Your Event
SUGAR LAND TOWN SQUARE www.sugarlandtownsquare.com Call 281-313-SLTS Thursday, August 4 & 18 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. Music in the Plaza Friday, August 5 & 19 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. Music in the Plaza Saturday, August 6 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. Music in the Plaza
26th FRIDAY, 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM LITERACY COUNCIL OF FORT BEND GREAT GROWN-UP SPELLING BEE At the University of Houston Sugar Land Campus, 14000 University Blvd. Visit www.grownupbee.com.
Friday, August 12 7 – 9 p.m. Cornerstone Community Bible Church – Jazz Concert
31st WEDNESDAY CALENDAR CONTEST DEADLINE Submit for the 2012 “The Many Faces of Autism” Photo Calendar Contest to raise funds for families and children affected by autism. The winner will receive a $250 cash award or complimentary photo shoot by Kimberly Oakley Photography. Visit www.HopeforThree.org.
Saturday, August 20 8:30 – 10:30 p.m. Movie Under the Moon Sponsored by Minute Maid
Saturday, August 13 7 – 9:30 p.m. Sugar Land Superstar Presented by David Taylor Cadillac
Friday, August 26 7:30 – 9 p.m. Dancing Under the Stars
UPCOMING IN SEPTEMBER 10th TEXAS MASTER NATURALIST VOLUNTEER TRAINING The Coastal Prairie Chapter is now open to applicants for Fall 2011. Volunteers are trained on eight consecutive weeks on alternating Saturdays and Thursdays, beginning September 10th with classes and field work, covering a wide range of topics including bird study, botany, ecology, fish, mammals and soil science. Applications are accepted on a firstcome, first-serve basis. Class size is limited. Call 281-239-2424. www.fortbend
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Honors the
Thursday, September 22, 2011 Benefiting Literacy Council of Fort Bend Tickets & Sponsorship opportunities 281-690-4242 or www.FortBendFocus.com
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August 2011 Winner “Lady Liberty’s torch shines bright this 4th of July!” By Kathy Knight, Sugar Land Congratulations Kathy, you’ve earned a $40 gift certificate to a 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.”
Please make sure to send some basic information about every photo you submit such as: who, where, when, a title, your name and daytime phone number. 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.
NO LIMIT TO ENTRIES To submit a digital photo, e-mail the jpeg file to Michael@ FortBendFocus.com. Digital photos must be HIGH RESOLUTION at least 300 dpi at actual size of at least 4” x 6”. fort bend
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Imperial Performing Arts presents
AUGUST 2011 AT THE IMPERIAL THEATRE
Sugar Land Choral Society Auditions Saturday, August 20 11:00 am— am—1:00 pm New Hope Lutheran Church 1424 FM 1092 (Murphy Road) Missouri City 77459
Call Daniel Sigmon, Musical Director, for info.— info.— 713.553.5631
ONE WEEK LEFT! GRAMMY AWARDAWARD-WINNING RECORDING ARTIST
Cynthia Clawson
THE IMPERIAL GALLERY is proud to present
Artist Matt Manalo VIP Opening
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3 8:00 PM
Friday, August 26 at 7:00 pm
$15 / General Admission
Friday, September 2 at 7:00 pm
CASH BAR AND HORS D'OEUVRE BY VINEYARD ON THE SQUARE
Public Opening
Call Robyn Miller, Gallery Director, for info.— info.—832.278.9763
TICKETS — theimperial.org / 281.277.7444 www.fortbend
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FORT BEND KIDS CHALKBOARD The published photos came from Press Releases submitted to Fort Bend Focus by the schools/organizations of these children. Congratulations to First Colony Swim Team members who competed in the USA Swimming Open Water Nationals. Jordan Hancock finished 5th in the 5K and 24th in the 10K. Daniel Graviss finished 43rd in the 10K and 12th in the 5K. Congrats to the other 5K swimmers: Alicia Finnigan, Corey Duke, Antoine Marc, Clement Dulac and Brett Pinfold. Pictured are Alicia Finnigan and Jordan Hancock.
Congratulations to the 14U South Texas Sliders for winning the Premier Division of the Nations Baseball South Zone State Tournament. Pictured are (bottom row) Riley Hood, Jairon Ordonez, Connor Berry, Jonathan Kastens, Kishan Patel, Jason Sellers, Tanner Schuetz; Coach Mike Horn, Zach Robinson, Nathan Weaver, Mitchell North, Alex Shaver, Bradley Greer, Austin Woodfin, Nick Anderson and Coach Matt Pierce.
Cameron Burrell of Fort Bend Ridge Point represented the USA World Youth Track & Field Team in Lille France last week and placed 14th in the Boys’ Long Jump. Cameron also ran in the preliminary rounds of the boys Medley relay and earned a Gold Medal.
James Macaluso of Sugar Land received his Eagle recognition at a Boy Scout Court of Honor. For his Eagle Project, Macaluso planned and provided leadership to a group of Spanish speaking Scouts and adults in Madrid, Spain. Macaluso is a 10th grader at Austin High School.
Congratulations to the Dulles Tennis Doubles Teams for capturing titles. Courtney Yeung and Mariam Zein were 2011 District Champs, Region III-5A Doubles Finalists and State Quarterfinalists. Nick Van Bemmelen and Jeffrey Chen were 2011 District Champs and Region III-5A Quarterfinalists. Pictured are Courtney Yeung, Mariam Zein, Coach Patty Priddy, Jeffery Chen and Nick Van Bemmelen.
The 8U select FCLL Sting won the Friendswood Firecracker Tournament! Pictured are (bottom): Riley Schebler, Tucker Wolfe, Zack Stafford, Timmy Magdall, Ty Neumann; Haden Harkrider, Brandon Epps, Girl Scouts enjoyed a 2 day event sponsored by the Rainbow Jacob Marlatt, Trace Lee, Drew Beavers, Cameron Stars Service Unit at Parkway United Methodist Church. They Holy; Coaches Ryan Schebler, Scott Harkrider, learned about the Girl Scout history and cleaned the prayer garden. Jeff Wolfe, Andy Beavers and Kevin Epps. fort bend
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By Melinda Wood
High School HOT SHOT Perfect Pitch
C
lements High School senior Daniel Perez not only has big league hopes, but the talent and determination to make those dreams come true. Daniel has played baseball since he learned how to walk when his dad started teaching him how to play at two-years-old. After that, Daniel says he just never stopped. Now, Daniel plays on the varsity team for the Clements Rangers as a pitcher and shortstop. In fact, one of his proudest memories is during last season’s semifinals where he earned a win after pitching three hitless, scoreless innings as a relief pitcher in game one against Memorial High School. When asked what was going through his head on the mound, Daniel simply says, “All I think about is the next pitch, and how to make it the perfect pitch for that moment.” Though the Rangers went on to lose that series, Daniel is proud of his team and is excited about this coming season, which will be his last in high school. “I really enjoyed last season, but I was kind of nervous at times,”
Da n i e l
Daniel shares. “This year, I just want to have some fun with my teammates, and hopefully, lead my team to the play-offs again.” To get back into postseason play, Daniel knows he and his teammates will have to work hard, but that’s something Daniel has no problem with. “When I was in little league and pony league, I was never a starter,” Daniel says. “I sat on the bench for a long time. I was always mad about that, but now I know that helped me to
“This year, I just want to have some fun with my teammates, and hopefully, lead my team to the play-offs again,” - Daniel shares. fort bend
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persevere and learn how to support my team.” He continues, “When I got older, I started working really hard and got the opportunity to start my freshman year. I’ve always played my hardest coming off the bench in order to prove myself, and it’s taught me how to be patient.” Daniel has also been lucky to have many mentors to help him along the way including his cousin, Jesse Crain, who plays for the Chicago White Sox. “He’s always been a role model, and I’d love to get to the major leagues,” Daniel says. “Seeing him play really keeps me focused and gives me that drive to get to that next level.” Daniel also adds that he has learned a lot about the game through his coach at Clements High School, Chris Carrejo. “He has been my coach throughout my high school years which is awesome. He can be tough on us, but it only makes me perform better.” When asked if he wants to go pro in baseball, Daniel says, “That’s every baseball player’s dream! At this point, I just want to keep working toward that next level. I want to at least play at a junior college, so I can get a lot of playing time. But, if I went to a Division 1 school, that would be amazing.” Though, after all this baseball talk, Daniel is more than an athlete. He loves to listen to music and also play the drums – a hobby he’s had since his mom bought him his first drum kit at four-years-old. As Daniel enters Clements as a senior this fall, he hopes to have a fun, memorable year. With his strong work ethic both on and off the field, there’s no doubt he has a great school year and baseball season ahead of him. H
CONGRATULATIONS! Ashley Okokhere
Congratulations to Ashley Okokhere, a graduate of Lamar Consolidated High School, for being selected as Texas Direct Auto’s “Scholarship Star” for August! Jessica DeMarr, Director of Business Development, presents the $1000 check. Okokhere currently volunteers at Memorial Hermann Hospital and was active in the Peer Assistance Leadership Service, Founder/President of the Scholarship Club, Debate Club, and National Honor Society at LCHS. She plans on majoring in Medicine at University of Dayton. Okokhere was selected as part of Texas Direct Auto’s commitment to educational excellence through the “Scholarship Stars” program. Application details are listed below.
Register now and win a
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Jeff Tallas, Farmers Insurance Agent in Houston, Receives Topper Club Honors
Fort Bend Christian Academy Appoints New Athletic Director Fort Bend Christian Academy is pleased to announce the appointment of Coach Bruce Lane as the school’s new Athletic Director. Coach Lane has Bruce Lane served 27 years in Christian education as a teacher and coach, nineteen of those years as an Athletic Director. He and his family moved to Texas from Georgia in the summer of 2009 after accepting the appointment as head football coach at Fort Bend Baptist Academy. He successfully led the FBBA Eagles to their greatest winning season to date (8-3) and first playoff appearance in only his second season as Head Coach. While at Augusta Christian School in Martinez, GA, Coach Lane led the football program to a State Championship (’05) and two State Championship Runner-Up seasons (’06, ‘07). Coach Lane is also an accomplished track coach, having led the Augusta Christian girls to a State Championship in 2007. He has been recognized several times as the regional “Coach of the Year” for football, tennis, and track, and has served as an officer for a number of professional associations. Over his career as a teacher, coach, and administrator, Coach Lane has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to Christ and the mission of Christian education. “Our greatest impact,” says Lane, “has been in using athletics as a method to reach kids, parents, and coaches for Christ.” Fort Bend Christian is thrilled to be appointing an Athletic Director who will continue to build upon the Academy’s commitment to Christ-centered athletics. H
Jeff Tallas, Agent with Farmers Insurance of Houston, has been inducted into the Farmers’ “Topper Club” of Farmers’ top sales producers. Tallas has been recogJeff Tallas nized by Farmers for outstanding sales achievements in 2010. “Farmers congratulates Jeff on qualifying for this year’s Topper Club. Jeff is committed to providing quality insurance coverages and industry-leading service to Farmers’ customers,” noted Farmers President of Enterprise Marketing Paul Patsis. Tallas represents Farmers Insurance locally through Farmers Insurance of Houston located at 9100 Southwest Fwy., Ste. 255. Farmers Insurance Group of Companies is the country’s third largest insurer of both personal lines passenger automobile and homeowners insurance, and also
provides a wide range of other insurance and financial services products. Farmers Insurance is proud to serve more than 10 million households with more than 20 million individual policies across all 50 states through the efforts of over 50,000 exclusive and independent agents and nearly 24,000 employees. Farmers is a trade name and may refer to Farmers Group, Inc. or the Farmers Exchanges, as the case may be. Farmers Group, Inc., a management and holding company, along with its subsidiaries, is wholly owned by the Zurich Financial Services Group. The Farmers Exchanges are three reciprocal insurers (Farmers Insurance Exchange, Fire Insurance Exchange and Truck Insurance Exchange), including their subsidiaries and affiliates, owned by their policyholders, and managed by Farmers Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries. For more information about Farmers, visit www.farmers.com or at www.Facebook.com/FarmersInsurance. H
Toll Brothers Opens New Model Home in Riverstone Toll Brothers, the nation’s leading builder of luxury homes, is excited to announce the unveiling of a professionally decorated model home located in Silver Grove, a newly opened neighborhood in the Riverstone master-planned community in Sugar Land. The luxurious single-family home designs in Silver Grove are priced from the upper $400,000s and range between 4,000 to over 5,600 square feet. Once complete, the community will feature 24 luxurious Toll Brothers homes. New home buyers are invited to tour the decorated model and learn about this premier neighborhood. The model is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. – 7 p.m. The Vallagio model home boasts an impressive stone and brick façade with well-appointed metal turret. Upon entering, the grand two-story foyer uncovers an elegant curved staircase and spacious study. The two-story family room features a welcoming fireplace which is fort bend
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framed by radiant windows. An open gourmet kitchen offers a large island, breakfast bar, walk-in pantry adjacent sunlit breakfast area and stainless steel KitchenAid® appliances. Bordering the kitchen is the secondary curved staircase followed by a wine cellar and guest bedroom. The notable master bedroom suite includes an immense walk-in closet and opulent master bath. The secondfloor showcases three bedrooms, a game room, and media room. All bedrooms include walk-in closet and bath access. Riverstone is a 3,700-acre masterplanned community offering residents attractive resort-style amenities and is conveniently located just 30 minutes from downtown Houston. The Fort Bend County development features recreational and swimming complexes, 20 miles of hiking and biking trails, expansive playgrounds, tennis courts and over 250 acres of planned lakes. For more details, call Sally Olivas, Sales Manager, today at (832) 642-4200. H
Recharge Your Fourth Quarter Sales Lunch and Learn Series with Curt Tueffert The Business and Professional Division of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce will host a must attend three part lunch and learn series, “Recharge Your Fourth Quarter Sales” with Curt Tueffert of Brick Wall Motivation – Enhancing Performance with Motivational Coaching. The lunch and learn series will be held at the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce’s office, 445 Commerce Green Blvd., Sugar Land, TX from 11:30 am - 1:00 pm on Wednesdays, - August 10, September 21 and October, 26, 2011. In the three part series, Curt will share proven tools such as “Five Stones For Slaying Giants – Motivation for the Rest of Us,” “Secrets From the Sales Tool Kit: Top tips, tools, and techniques you can use from a 60 minute lunch seminar,” and “Connectivity: Ideas” (Marketing) where you can make a connection with prospects, customers, patients, and clients. If you are not connecting, your competition is. Take advantage of this up close and personal series to help recharge your sales and make the best of fiscal year 2011. The Business & Professional Division of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce is under the leadership of Vice Chairman Glenn Smith, Owner of The Growth Coach. The mission of the Business & Professional Division is to offer business-oriented programs that help our Chamber members and local businesses develop and achieve their professional goals. Keep informed and engaged by attending this business development series. Register today online at www. FortBendChamber.com. The lunch and learn series is $65 for Chamber members; individual sessions for Chamber members are $25, and $35 for prospective members. Lunch and materials are included. For more information, contact Shauna Williams at 281.491.0277 or email shauna@fortbendcc.org. H
Houston Community Bank, N.A. Celebrates 30th Anniversary and Five Star Rating Houston Community Bank, N.A., located at 19855 Southwest Freeway, Suite 100 at the Greatwood Lakes Office Bldg in Sugar Land as well as its other locations, recently celebrated the Bank’s 30th Anniversary. In conjunction with the 30th Anniversary, the Houston Community Bank organization was recently honored with its second FIVE STAR RATING, which is the highest rating a financial institution can achieve and signifies that the bank is one of the strongest bank’s in the nation. Claude Leatherwood, Vice Chairman and C.O.O., stated, “We are extremely proud of all of our officers and
Celebrating the 30th Anniversary and FIVE STAR RATING of Houston Community Bank from left to right are: Christy Segue, Bank Teller; Claude Leatherwood; Christina Vasquez, Assistant Vice President; Diana Hernandez, Bank Teller; Brian Ellis, Banking Officer; and Deana Newton, Lobby Operations Manager.
employee’s hard work, dedication and teamwork which was instrumental in receiving this prestigious ranking.” H
Relaxing
Waterfront Living
Located on beautiful Copano Bay, this 6.27 acre property boasts an (approx.) 520 ft. waterfront. The (approx.) 5500 sq. ft. home has 4 bedrooms and 4 baths with an attached garage and a 4000 sq.ft. shop. A must see! By appointment only. $1,950,000. Mr. Jerre Ledbetter, Luce Properties 1819 Broadway, Rockport, Texas 78382 361-729-9161 jerreledbetter@yahoo.com www.fortbend
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M edical F ocus
Christopher Smith, M.D.,
Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas to Open Katy Office Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas (MOST) is expanding to Katy to better serve residents of west Fort Bend and Harris counties. The new practice, located at 18400 Katy Freeway, Suite 200, will be led by Christopher Smith, M.D., who specializes in both adult and pediatric orthopedics. The practice is on the campus of the new Methodist West Houston Hospital, between Barker Cypress Road and South Greenhouse Road. “Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas has long been a leader in sports medicine and orthopedic care in
the Fort Bend and Southwest Houston area. The Katy office is a natural extension of our practice,” says Dr. Smith. “We’ve always had patients from the Katy area who were referred to us by friends, family members and primary care providers, and now we can provide services right in their neighborhood.” Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas is one of the largest groups of board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons in Fort Bend. MOST provides a comprehensive array Continued on page 90
Affiliated Spine Center Physicians.
Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Recognized for Spine Center Campaign – Ranking Among the Nation’s Best Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s marketing team was honored with a Gold Award for the hospital’s Spine Center campaign. The campaign was ranked amongst the top 5% in the nation. The Aster Awards, one of the largest national competitions of its kind, is hosted by Marketing Healthcare Today Magazine and Creative Images, Inc. This elite program recognizes outstanding healthcare professionals for excellence in their advertising/marketing efforts for the calendar year 2010. The 2011 Aster Awards received approximately 3,000 entries from across the United States as well as Canada and South America. Participant’s entries competed against similar-sized organizations in their category. Entries must score at least in the top 16% to receive an award. Judging criteria includes creativity, layout and design,
functionality, message effectiveness, production quality and overall appeal. “It was an honor to have the number of Healthcare organizations and agencies that participated in the 2011 Aster Awards Competition. The quality of this year’s entries went well beyond the judges’ expectations,” said Melinda R. Lucas, Aster Awards Program Coordinator. “As health care marketing professionals, it is crucial we communicate within our communities what services are available to them so close to home.” said Leena Taneja, Director of Physician Relations and Marketing at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “We’re honored to receive this recognition for the hard work and dedication our team puts forth to ensure the continued communication to our community about the Spine Center and other services provided by Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. I would like to personally thank our fort bend
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Spine Center physicians and the Methodist Sugar Land marketing team who made this award happen.” Awards were issued based on the following scores: Gold Awards – Score of 95 to 99 (top 5% in the nation) Silver Awards – Score of 90 to 94 (top 12% in the nation) Bronze Awards – Score of 85 to 89 (top 16% in the nation) All winners are posted on the Aster Awards website (www.AsterAwards. com), as well as published in Marketing Healthcare Today, a national healthcare marketing magazine. For more information or to schedule an appointment at Methodist Sugar Land Spine Center, please call 281-313-BACK (2225), email SpineCenter@tmhs.org or visit www.MethodistSugarLand.com. H
Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Cancer Center Celebrates National Cancer Survivor’s Day
Cancer survivors and caregivers attending the luncheon and celebration.
Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Cancer Center recently hosted a celebration of life in honor of cancer survivors. The Center joined America’s 11 million cancer survivors around the world in observing the 24th annual National Cancer Survivor’s Day. Hundreds of communities worldwide hosted events this month to celebrate life and demonstrate that there is hope. Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Cancer Center invited all local cancer survivors, caregivers, community leaders, Methodist Sugar Land Hospital physicians and employees and anyone passionate about the cause for the National Cancer Survivor’s Day celebration. During the event, community members joined together in honoring the survivors living with a history of cancer in America today. The contributions of their families, friends and healthcare providers who support cancer survivors were also recognized. During the celebration, Dagmar Climo, a two-time breast cancer survivor, bravely shared her story and provided hope for those attending the event. “My mission is to inform women of the importance of early detection. Getting a yearly mammogram can truly save your life, as it did mine. Methodist Sugar Land Cancer Center has taken care of me since my diagnosis, and I owe them a huge debt of gratitude. The radiation team at the cancer center is awesome. It sure helped to have skilled people who are fun taking care of me and keeping my spirit up,” said Climo.
“Congratulations to Methodist Sugar Land Hospital for an excellent and uplifting celebration of cancer survivorship, every year this event continues to grow. This means two things; there are more and more people surviving cancer and Methodist Sugar Land Cancer Center is reaching and treating more people every day and giving the chance of life,” said Tommy Thompson, Executive Vice PresiCraig Butler, Chaplain; Frances Goerlich, Cancer Center Director; dent of CanCare. “We are Tommy Thompson, Can Care; Lindsey Turnau, Dagmar Climo, Breast here today to celebrate you. Cancer Survivor who spoke at the event about the importance of Thank you for your hope early detection and Melissa Lampp. and courage.” “You who are here today have come as an eternal reminder to all health care to celebrate life. You are unique indiprofessionals to work harder to find better viduals who have used your mind, soul ways to cure this disease.” and body to beat the beast. We pay trib“Thanks to the strides being taken in ute to you all. We as health care profescancer research, people like me are able sionals, from the physician to the nurse, to say, I have been cancer free for almost from the therapist to the technician are 30 years. My family and I thank the fine humbled by you allowing us to be part of doctors who have dedicated their lives to your cure, part of your life, part of your this specialty at the sacrifice of time away story,” announced Clive Shkedy, M.D., from their own families, and I am thrilled radiation oncologist and medical directhat Methodist Sugar Land Hospital has tor of Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s brought such a high-quality cancer facilCancer Center. “We also acknowledge all ity at the doorstep of Fort Bend residents,” those family members, friends and care says Debbie Markesino, cancer survivor. givers who have supported you through For more information on Methodist your ordeal. We cannot forget those who Sugar Land Hospital, visit www.Methodwere less fortunate, who have succumbed istSugarLand.com or call 281-274-7500 to their illness, yet their memory serves for a physician referral. H www.fortbend
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M edical F ocus
OakBend Medical Group Expands Cardiology Services, Welcomes Cardiologists to Community Focused Organization
Continued from page 88 of general orthopedic surgery and sub– specialty services, including sports medicine, arthroscopic surgery, total joint replacements, cartilage transplants, diseases and deformities of the spine and treatment of hand, upper extremity, foot and ankle problems. MOST also offers complete therapy and rehabilitation services, including occupational therapy and a state-ofthe-art aquatic therapy facility. Some of the area´s most skilled therapists staff the facility, providing the latest, most effective treatments, custom-tailored in conjunction with MOST physicians to deliver maximum effectiveness and a quick return to full and pain-free function. “Through our new Katy office, we’ll be able to evaluate and treat patients quickly and conveniently,” says Dr. Smith. “At the same time, we can offer the full range of MOST’s expertise, leading-edge technology and personal care and follow-up to those patients who need it.” Dr. Smith is a third-generation orthopedic surgeon who followed in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, both leaders in the local medical community. He is certified by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons and is a graduate of Texas Tech University School of Medicine. He served his residency in orthopedic surgery at University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. In his spare time, Dr. Smith works with Operation Rainbow to provide much-needed orthopedic surgery to under-served children and young adults in Central and South America. “All of us at MOST are excited about the new Katy office,” says Dr. Smith. “We look forward to being involved in such an active, growing community.” For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Smith, call MOST at 281-690-4678.
OakBend Medical Group welcomes Dr. James R. McClamroch and Dr. Dale Allen Faulkner.
Expanding the scope of services it offers in Fort Bend County, OakBend Medical Group welcomes Drs. Dale Allen Faulkner and James R. McClamroch. These highly regarded cardiologists bring decades of experience to the Group and add to its already broad range of services available throughout the community. With the addition of Drs. Faulkner and McClamroch, OakBend Medical Group will employ 17 highly qualified providers of a broad range of services including family medicine, cardiology, ear nose and throat, obstetrics and gynecology, infectious disease and geriatrics. Dr. Faulkner is a fellowship trained interventional cardiologist and internal medicine physician, who specializes in primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. Formerly Chief of Staff at Fort Bend Hospital and Chief of Internal Medicine at Memorial Hermann Fort Bend and OakBend Medical Center. Dr. McClamroch is a board certified, fellowship trained interventional cardiologist and internal medicine specialist, who has served as an OakBend Medical Center staff member and an associate of Southwest Cardiology Associates since 1983. With subspecialty board certification in cardiovascular disease, he specializes in cardiovascular disease screening and management with special interest in
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the areas of invasive cardiology, congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease and all aspects of general and preventative cardiology. Both of these highly trained and well respected physicians represent the high quality of care you can expect in Fort Bend County in the Cardiopulmonary and Coronary Care Unit at OakBend Medical Center. OakBend Medical Group is quickly becoming the primary choice for families throughout West Fort Bend County, providing general and specialized care at conveniently located state-of-the-art facilities. Services areas include: Family Practice, Infectious Disease, OB/GYN, Geriatric Medicine, Cardiology and Otolaryngology. Locations include: New Territory, Richmond Rosenberg, Sugar Land and Williams Way. Contact OakBend Medical Group at (281) 238-7870 or visit www. OakBendMedicalGroup.com. H Send your news via www.FortBendFocus. com. Deadline for submission is on or before the 10th of the month for the next month’s publication. All submissions are subject to the publisher’s approval, editing and space availability.
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FOCUS FAVORITES... Your Community Resource Guide Accounting & Bookkeeping Books With Integrity 281-978-6916 www.bookswithintegrity.net Sandra@bookswithintegrity.net Assisting small businesses with bookkeeping & payroll. Services range from onsite training to fullcharge bookkeeping. Have your receipts or Excel data turned it into a valuable resource for your business. Already have a set of books? We can ensure they are set up properly. Using QuickBooks? Let us assist you with utilizing all the software features available to optimize your bookkeeping process. We provide accuracy, professionalism & enthusiasm, allowing you to focus on big-picture issues. (07/2012)
Acupuncture LIFEnhance Acupuncture Clinic 713-661-8822 www.acupuncturetx.net www.lifenhanceclinic.com wendy4chz@yahoo.com Health insurances accepted. Our clinical services include acupuncture, acupressure, massage, evidence-based botanical medicine, dietary supplements, and special diets. We treat: Headaches (Migraine, Facial, Sinus, Muscle Pain, Trigeminal Neuralgia), Neck Pain, Shoulder Pain, Back Pain, Joint Pain, Chronic Pain due to Trauma, Bell’s Palsy, Infertility (IVF/IUI) Support, Menopause, Cancer Support, Stress/Depression, and Weight Management. We accept many health insurances. (05/2012)
Advertising/Printing/Graphics Fort Bend Focus Magazine 281-690-4242 www.fortbendfocus.com lisa@fortbendfocus.com Fort Bend’s only feature magazine direct mailed to nearly 30,000 homes, subscribers and high value homes in Sugar Land, Richmond, Katy, Missouri City and Fulshear. Complimentary at on demand distribution locations throughout Fort Bend. Subscribe for free. (10/2010) Focus On Women Magazine 281-690-4242 www.fowmag.com lisa@fortbendfocus.com Finally, the magazine that you have been waiting for. A new publication showcasing one of the best and brightest resources – our women. Full of interesting, thought-provoking stories. Focus on Women is a celebration of today’s women – their lives, their passions and their spirit. (10/2010)
Star Printing 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com michael@fortbendstar.com Professionally designed and printed flyers, postcards, brochures, magazines, newspapers and catalogs with high-quality digital graphics. (10/2010)
Children Sports/Gymnastics, Tumbling & Cheer GYMTEX Gymnastics & Cheerleading Inc 832-876-9888 www.GymtexGym.com gymtex@gmail.com Ten years in Fort Bend has allowed GYMTEX to provide families with children ages 3 to 18 quality gymnastics and cheerleading training in a safe, fun and clean environment. Not only does GYMTEX produce state champions, but they build your child’s character! Take advantage of Olympic caliber gymnastics equipment, an indoor rock wall, rope-net climbs, 40 foot trampoline and a giant foam block pit and more! Change your child’s life today with classes at GYMTEX and produce a champion for life! (06/2012)
Counseling DF Counseling Services 281-380-9518 www.dfcounselingservices.com dallaslpc@yahoo.com Change can be challenging. A positive outcome is the goal. I believe that a fulfilling life is complete with supportive relationships, feelings of selfworth, and continued personal growth. If you are struggling with some difficult life issues and need some helpful guidance, hire the Licensed Professional Counselor who is experienced, compassionate, and effective - Dallas Ferguson. Individuals, couples, and families are welcome. (11/2010)
Dentistry Texas Urban Smile 281-277-1545 www.texasurbansmile.com sara@texasurbansmile.com We care for your dental, oral health and beauty. To help you smile, we use top-of-the-line digital, low radiation x-rays, intraoral cameras, and much more. We have practiced general, cosmetic, implant and orthodontic dentistry for over 20 years. For your satisfaction, we offer a free consultation, $299 Zoom Whitening, $999 Bicon Short Implants, $2400 Invisible Braces and much more. Don’t wait! These deals will end soon. Call us and talk to one of our friendly staff and make an appointment today. (02/2011) fort bend
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Estate Planning and Probate Andreason Law Firm 281-265-1561 www.andreasonlawfirm.com kurtandreason@andreasonlawfirm.com With over 25 years experience in Texas, Kurt M. Andreason can meet your estate planning needs with everything from basic wills and disability planning documents to sophisticated estate planning strategies, including family limited partnerships, life insurance trusts and other recognized methods of estate tax reduction. Convenient Sugar Land location. Handicap Accessible. Board Certified in Estate Planning, Probate Law and Commercial Real Estate. Listed over 10 years in Best Lawyers in America. (11/2010)
Home Remodeling & Construction Services Villa Construction & Remodeling 281-344-2732 www.villaconstruction.net cindy@villaconstruction.net Villa Construction and Remodeling recognizes the privilege that you extend to us in serving your home construction and remodeling needs. We offer a full range of quality products and professional services. We have served the communities in Sugar Land and Fort Bend County since 1991. We are members of the Better Business Bureau and Texas Residential Construction Commission. We accept credit cards and insurance claim work. Please contact us for a free no obligation quote. (11/2010)
Horseback Riding Sienna Stables 281-778-7433 www.siennastables.com The premier Southwest Houston area Equestrian Facility offers horseback riding lessons for youth and adults in both English or Western styles. Other activities include kids’ camps, birthday parties, special events and therapeutic riding. For the horse owner, horses can be boarded and or trained by professionals. Sienna Stables also hosts many styles of horse shows. Nestled among centuriesold shade trees in Sienna Plantation this little slice of heaven is conveniently located in Fort Bend. (11/2010)
NEED HELP? Please call the experts from our list of Focus Favorites.
FOCUS FAVORITES... Your Community Resource Guide Jewelry Designs In Gems® 713-995-7975 www.designsingems.com brucejsnider@hotmail.com Custom Designs - Hand Made Jewelry by Designs In Gems® since 1984. “Distinctive originals redesigned from your sentimental existing gold and stones.... We make the next generation’s keepsakes.” Custom Jewelry Designer - Bruce J. Snider M.S., G.G.- GIA. Gemological Laboratory Appraisals. Graduate Gemologist - Gemological Institute of America. Listed: Jewelers Board of Trade, Member: BBB. 16180 City Walk (Town Square - Sugar Land) by appointment. (11/2010) J Loggins Jewelers 281-242-2900 www.jloggins.com For all of your jewelry needs. Come view a large selection of beautiful pieces by various designers. Expertise in original design and construction with an emphasis on providing the best in quality and value sets J Loggins Jewelers apart from all of the rest. Take advantage of the wide array of services including simple solders, repairs in all precious metals, repairs of some fashion and base metals, heirloom restorations, makeovers, engraving, watch battery replacement, restringing and appraisals. (05/2012)
Marketing & Advertising The Marketing Department 281-277-7272 www.tmdtexas.com hspencer@tmdmainstreet.com cspencer@tmdmainstreet.com TMD is a friendly retail environment where small business owners can shop for affordable marketing ideas to help grow their business. The owners, Howard and Christie Spencer, will take the time to get to know you and understand your business - at absolutely no cost to you. This free consultation results in customized marketing strategies designed to fit your needs and budget. We’ll help you sell more -- to more people, more often, for more money! (03/2011)
DID WE GET YOUR ATTENTION? Then call 281-690-4242 to have your business listed here.
Resale Shops
Orthodontics Pisklak Orthodontics 281-403-5599 www.pisklakorthodontics.com info@pisklakorthodontics.com Carrie W. Pisklak, DDS, MS, is a respected provider of orthodontic care in your community. Located in Missouri City, Texas, the practice’s top priority is to provide you the highest quality orthodontic care in a friendly, comfortable environment. Dr. Pisklak utilizes the latest technological advances, such as clear braces and Invisalign Teen, along with the latest in computer technology to ensure that you receive the most effective care possible. (10/2010)
Pest Control/Exterminator Integrated Pest Management Inc. 281-341-1761 Fax 832-451-1949 www.integratedpest.biz ipmi@comcast.net Locally owned and operated servicing Fort Bend County for 29 years, Integrated Pest Management’s knowledge and friendly staff can answer all of your pest questions. A convenient retail store located on Hwy. 90 next to the Women’s Center retail store, we are open Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. Stop by to check out our collection of snakes, exotic bugs and rodents. Save money by purchasing the materials yourself and let us educate you on how to apply them. Better yet, let us do the job for you. Thanks, Bob, Frank, Shirley, Daniel and Phil. (03/2011)
Podiatry and Cosmetic Elite FootCare of Texas, Inc. 832-539-1620 www.elites-of-texas.com admin@elites-of-texas.com Podiatric & cosmetic medical facility providing advanced foot/ankle care in a compassionate & caring environment, located in Fort Bend. Dr. Shepherd will make sure you are comfortable, satisfied & well-informed about your healthcare through the diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Services include general & cosmetic foot care, with treatments to make feet comfortable and beautiful such as: foot facials/spa and detox, toe nail bleach, treating hyperhydrosis (sweaty feet) and Stiletto Rx (high heel comfort). (03/2011)
To advertise, go to www.fortbendfocus.com and click on “Focus Favorites.” www.fortbend
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PennyWise Resale Centers Benefitting Fort Bend County Women’s Center 281-344-5770 www.fortbendwomenscenter.org Are your closets and home overfilled with unwanted, usable items? Declutter your home and donate your lightly used home furniture, housewares, clothing, appliances, computers and electronics, shoes and jewelry. We accept everything from jeans to wedding gowns and designer wear. PennyWise Resale stores (Richmond, Stafford and Mission Bend) depend on the community’s generous donations, and all proceeds assist survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault and their children. Shop for unbelievable savings.
Roofing Ameristar Roofing 281-238-4230 www.ameristarroofing.com ameristarroofing@gmail.com Ameristar Roofing is your full service roofing company, No job is too small or too big. We are a certified “Shingle Master Co” with Certainteed which authorizes us to offer 3, 4 & 5 star extended warranties. We are fully insured and bonded for your safety. At the end of every job we perform a QUALITY CONTROL INSPECTION. Our company belief is, THE CUSTOMER IS ALWAYS RIGHT. We want your recommendation because of our reputation! THANKS, JOE RANGEL, REUBEN STAFFORD & JOHN YATES, MANAGING PARTNERS. (10/2010)
Transportation The Original Trolley & Limousine Company 281-491-4911 www.originaltrolley.com otrolley@comcast.net The Original Trolley Company brings back a sense of nostalgia for groups who are looking for a truly unique transportation experience. The Trolley Company presently has three trolley cars ready for hire. The Trolleys are fully air conditioned and heated, mahogany trimmed, bar set up accommodations and have a trolley brass bell. Visit our website at www.originaltrolley.com to view our large gallery of photos. If a trolley is too large for your group, we have added a 120 inch stretch Limousine. (10/2010)
Fort Bend Loves To Dine List your restaurant here. Call 281-690-4242.
Focus on Flavor
Dining Guide
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.
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.
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 in front of your eyes. We also offer a variety of great tasting Flat Baked Pita’s, fresh salads, soups and drinks. Mon-Thur: 11am-10pm, Fri-Sat: 11am-11pm, Sun: Noon-10pm, 15810 SW Frwy., Sugar Land, (Lake Pointe Village) TX 281-494-7482
FERNANDO’S RESTAURANT What’s new in 2011: Steakhouse cuisine, new wine selection, live entertainment by Salsa Bands, special events and more! Join us for live entertainment and dancing on the weekends. Banquets for up to 300 people, casual party room and catering is available. A special thanks to Focus Readers for your continued support! Stop by and get a free Fernando’s gift card. Come celebrate with Fernando and join his VIP list at 14135 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land. For reservations call 281-494-9087. Closed on Sundays. Visit www. fernandosrestaurants.com.
BUY ANY PITA & Get the Combo for FREE fort bend
magazine • August 2011
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Focus on Flavor
Dining Guide
GODFATHER’S PIZZA • Godfather’s Pizza, with the “Thickest Pie” now open! Not just your regular pizza place, Godfather’s offers Video Games and Party Rooms, big screen TV’s, DVD rentals (one night free with first order) and ALL YOU CAN EAT LUNCH BUFFET (ADULTS $5.99, KIDS $3.99). Try the all time favorites Taco Pie or All Meat Combo. Visit godfathers.com for online ordering and delivery. Catering available. 609 Dulles, across from Dulles High, 281-208-0200. Su-Th 11am to 10pm, Fr-Sa 11am to 11pm.
$6.99 LARGE(ONE PIZZA TOPPING) Golden or thin crust only. Pick up only. Limited time offer.
LUPITAS MEXICAN RESTAURANT • Jaime and Lupe Garcia and son, Leo Rigo, have been serving homemade traditional Mexican food to the community for 6 years. Lupitas is open 7 days a week with over twenty lunch specials Monday through Friday. Don’t miss Happy Hour Monday-Thursday with $2 Domestic Beer, $2.50 Imported Beer and $3.50 Margaritas! Lupitas is now serving Angus Beef. Hours are Sunday-Thursday 11am-9pm and Friday-Saturday 11am-10pm. 281-265-6556, 3121 Highway 6, near the Williams Trace intersection. Muchas Gracias from our family to yours for your support the past 6 years!
GREAT W’KANA CAFE • (which means “harmony” in Sanskrit) is a unique dining experience with vibrant colors, friendly staff and excellent food. Authentic and contemporary Indian dishes, such as avocado naan, tandoori, and spinach and paneer (simple Indian farmers cheese) appetizer, are prepared by owner Chef Sunil and wife Anupama in an open kitchen atmosphere right before your eyes. Try the “dum” cookery, a steaming technique that in more primitive times used tightly sealed dough to cook a dish over a charcoal fire. All of the meat served is halal. Located at 11720 West Airport and Kirkwood, Great Wkana Cafe is open Mon -Thurs for lunch 11:00 to 3:00 and dinner 5:30 to 10:00, and Fri & Sat until 10:30 with a special brunch on weekends. Call 832-886-4291 or visit www.greatwkanacafe.com.
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 4-7pm. Enjoy live music Tuesday - Saturday nights. Napa Grille Urban Wine Bar is also available for private parties. Mon-Fri 11am-11pm Sat 5pm-11pm. 14019 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land, TX. Call 281-277-2599. For full menu and daily specials visit www.napagrille.net.
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.
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.
RAY’S GOURMET COUNTRY •
List your restaurant here. Call 281-690-4242.
KARL’S AT THE RIVERBEND • Offering romantic dining in the country, Swiss Chef Karl Camenzind serves a wide variety of delicious cuisine including venison, Angus beef, fresh fish and wienerschitzel. Enjoy budget dinners as well as our regular dinner menu Tuesday Thursday with the Neighborhood Menu, featuring entrees under $11.00. Regular Dinner Menu Tuesday - Saturday. Best Sunday brunch in town, including over 50 items served buffet style and featuring eggs benedict and carved roast beef. Reservations suggested, but not required. Tuesday-Thursday 5-8:30pm, Friday & Saturday 5-9pm, and Sunday 11:30am-2pm. 5011 FM 723, Richmond, TX. 281-238-9300. Visit www.karlsrb.com.
List your restaurant here. Call 281-690-4242.
www.fortbend
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. SUSHI SUN & AUTHENTIC THAI SEAFOOD • “Home of the Best Papaya Salad
in Town” located at 5211 Highway 6 in Missouri City. Try the super spicy Thai food and vegetarian meals or sit close to the action at the sushi bar to watch the experienced culinary artists. Happy Hour meal specials all day!! BYOB!! Carry out and limited delivery available. Open Monday-Saturday. 281.403.9200.
20% OFF YOUR BILL!!! Exp 08/31/11
List your restaurant here. Call 281-690-4242.
.com • August 2011
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By Alisa Murray www.AlisaMurray.com Nationally recognized portrait artist and award-winning columnist.
Living the Sweet Life:
It’s not winning or losing, but how you played your game!
I
remember when I first met Lance, and no, it wasn’t at Minute Maid Park but as I opened my back door. He had come to have pictures taken of his family, and the honor was all mine. I remember how easy going he was and not pretentious. After we finished shooting, I apologized to him for not knowing the first thing about baseball. He said to me then, and I’ll paraphrase, “That’s ok. You do photography, and I do baseball. I understand.” A few years later, he came in again, and we talked a bit about what I had been achieving as an artist and how he was doing in baseball. Afterwards, he played with the children as Cara and I selected their portraits. That was when he became “Uncle Lance” to our family, and I became “Auntie A” to his. He asked if I had any baseballs, and luckily, I did have a few for him to sign. On my ball, he then wrote: “To Alisa, my favorite portrait artist! Love You - Lance Berkman” I tucked it away for safe keeping. Many a player has come here to have me do what I do for their families, and over the years, I have become a family friend to some. My relationship with Lance though is a special one, and I see him and his family regularly. When he celebrated his birthday, Cara called and asked if I could send over the portrait I had shot of him and her saying she wanted it to be in the video. “ That one is Lance’s favorite of us.” I know Lance and Cara have had a few laughs over the years as I am “the fan of his that knows absolutely nothing about baseball.” Two funny stories stick out in my mind in particular. Once when on the rare occasion that I was at Minute Maid, the other via voicemail while scheduling their family portraits. I was in the private box of then pitcher Roger Clemens hanging out with his wife watching the game, and Cara dropped over or up to (honestly I had no idea where
Lance and Cara Berkman with Alisa. in the stadium I was!) to say hi. I wanted to go to Lance’s box, and Cara laughed at me and said they didn’t have one. I wrinkled my nose and said “Well, ya’ll should!” She said I was hysterical and just smiled. The other was when I called to check in to see when they wanted to come in, and I gave them a few dates. Cara called back laughing saying what their schedule was and the fact that I was so oblivious to the baseball schedule was funny. I do what I do, and he does what he does. They appreciated the innocence in all of that, and I, of course, appreciate them for understanding. When Lance came to see me a few weeks ago, I handed him a few questions to answer: Alisa: What would you say is your greatest success? Lance: Personally, my family. I have an awesome wife and four incredible daughters. I don’t know if I can claim success in this, but it is a blessing from God. Professionally, playing in the Major Leagues for 12 years. Alisa: How do you think baseball has changed since you were a little boy? Lance: Amateur baseball is different because in high school and college you play because you enjoy it, and the only concern fort bend
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is to win. The pro game has changed in the way guys train and the amount of media coverage. I guess I would say in one respect amateur baseball is more pure. Alisa: When you look back over your career, what stands out most in your mind? Lance: Our World Series appearance in 2005 with the Astros but also the ’04 and ’06 seasons. Great group of guys.... plenty of exciting baseball. Alisa: What is your favorite word? Lance: Incredible. Alisa: What sound do you love? Lance: I love the sound of a well-struck baseball, crackling fires and coyotes. Alisa: Is there a profession that you would not like to do? Lance: I would hate to work on a hay crew during the Texas summer. I also wouldn’t do well as a teacher from K through about 5th grade. Alisa: What would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates? Lance: Well done, good and faithful servant. Over the years of friendships with those playing professionally, I have come to recognize just how easy is to get caught up in being “a player.” As they gain points and status, their egos grow too. Lance Berkman is not one of them. He is a husband first, a father second and then, he plays great baseball loving the game and winning at being the very best he can be. Recently, he moved from the Houston Astros and has seen his career grow by having done so. He has played for a long time and if moving brings him to the status of a World Series player with the coveted ring and all that goes with it, (and hopefully a private box for his family and friends to see him play! LOL), then no one is more deserving. One thing is for sure: After all the lights of the stadium are off and each season closes, one fact remains ... Lance is a really amazing baseball player, but more important than any of that, he is a good friend. Deeply grounded by his faith and family, I am honored to call his family a part of mine. To use his favorite word, Uncle Lance you are indeed “incredible!” Take Care of You!
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