December 2018 - Fort Bend Focus Magazine - People • Places • Happenings

DECEMBER 2018

6 Annual th

E C I O H C ' S R OF F E D A RE

Favorites 2018

C hristmas M agic P roject N oel

Sounds of The Season Hometown Hero:

MARY Favre Holiday

Gift Guide

Highlighting the people, places and happenings of Fort Bend each month for nearly 15 years

Est. 2004

Proudly introduces our newest business-to-business publication in partnership with the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce

Premier Issue

success around the bend

October/November 2018 CHRIS SIebenaleR

Inside

Political Profile

Cruz vs. O’Rourke

FBISD

Bond Proposal

Post 1Year HARVEY

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Leading Medicine in Fort Bend

• Business • Politics • Development • Economics • Finance • Profiles • Technology • Career

For a complimentary copy of any of our magazines or to advertise,

visit absolutelyfocusmedia.com or call 281.690.4242.

Proud publisher of community magazines for nearly 15 years

Why wait for the new year for a new you? Start now!

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• Cellulite Reduction & Body Contouring • Coolsculpting / Vanquish Fat Reduction • PRP Hair Restoration & Micro-Needling • Botox / Juvederm / Radiesse / Voluma • Pain-Free Laser Hair Removal • Ultherapy Skin Tightening • Laser Tattoo Removal • Microblading

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Dr. Anne Marie Ponce de Leon

Ask us about: • Special savings on select Hunter Douglas operating systems • Free measuring • The Hunter Douglas Lifetime Guarantee 707 Avenue E Stafford, TX 77477 M-F: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Sat: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Evenings by Appointment 281-403-6733 www.jlblinds.com

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Please contact our Certified Hunter Douglas Consultant Mary O’Connor to learn more about our wide selection of window fashions for your home!

Mary O’Connor mary@jlblinds.com

Voted Fort Bend Focus Readers’ Choice Favorite Home Improvement Store

DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

DECEMBER 2018

{COVER STORY}

{Features} 24 Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital

Patient Authors The Big Discovery

to Help Children Understand Breast Cancer

32 The Richmond State Supported

Living Center Preserves Christmas magic through Project Noel

Since 1973, the grounds of the Richmond State Supported Living Center have been transformed into a winter wonderland by staff and residents. Today, it’s a community affair with more than 60 Christmas-themed scenes on the 241-acre decorated campus.

Project Noel is free nightly until January 1st – a perfect holiday outing for both young and old.

36 HoLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 50 SUGAR PlUM MARKET PREVIEW NIGHT

This annual holiday shopping extravaganza

kicks off the holiday season and benefits Fort Bend County charities.

54 CULLINAN PARK CONSERVANCY

2018 Photo Contest Winners

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6th Annual Focus favS READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

In August, we invited readers to our website to take an online survey to tell us who their favorites are in Fort Bend in eight different categories: Food, Shopping, Entertainment, Pet Services, Care Services, Home Improvement, Professional Services and Auto Services. See who won this year’s Fort Bend Focus Favs Readers’ Choice Awards, and congratulations to all of our winners!

First Place Wildlife “Incandescence”

By Anika Patel

DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

HOUSTON METHODIST UROLOGY ASSOCIATES

Dr. Laura Martinez and Dr. Neel Srikishen with Houston Methodist Urology Associates at Sugar Land, are dedicated to the treatment of the entire genital and urinary tract. They combine their clinical expertise with the advanced technology at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital to treat the following conditions: • • • •

Bladder disease Erectile dysfunction Female urology Incontinence

• • • •

Infertility Kidney stones Prostate issues Urologic cancers

To schedule an appointment, call 281.746.6611 or visit houstonmethodist.org/spg to learn more about the practice.

Dr. Laura Martinez Dr. Neel Srikishen

16659 Southwest Fwy. Medical Office Building 2 Suite 401 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.746.6611

houstonmethodist.org/spg

CONTRI B UTORS

DECEMBER 2018 Volume 15 | number 2

Joan Frances Contributor Pages 28 & 48

28

{Newsworthy}

Alisa Murray Alisa Murray Page 38 & 64

38

38

23 Sounds of The Season

Holiday Luncheon

Presented by The Fort Bend

Chamber of Commerce

{In Every Issue}

25 Sugar Land

Branch Library

”Art and Culture” Series

8 EXCLAMATION POINTS!

Focuses On Gothic Cathedrals

26 Fort Bend Boys Choir

Kicks Off Holiday Season

42 SEEN ON THE SCENE 58 OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART OF THE BEND

Fort Bend Boys Choir Hosts Open Auditions

61 AMATEUR PHOTO CONTEST

30 Fort Bend ISD VoteRS

Approve Bond Referendum 46 Family Musical for the Holidays

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

Jr. kicks off the holiday season at Inspiration Stage.

62 COMMUNITY EVENTS

{Travel} 38 GLOBETROTTING:

49 Intellectual Property Rights

University Branch Library

{Medical Focus} 53 Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital

Welcomes Electrophysiologist

Apoor Patel, M.D.

6

Hyatt Ziva’s Caribbean Gem: Rose Hall in Montego Bay

{Columns} 28 HOMETOWN HEROES:

Mary Favre

48 HIGH SCHOOL HOT SHOT:

Meet Brazil Bartholomew

64 LIVING THE SWEET LIFE:

A Few Years in Review

DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

On the Cover: 6th Annual Focus Favs Readers’ Choice Awards

Fri., Dec. 14th Sat., Dec. 15th

Drop off site

Visit LOGGINSJEWELERS.COM for holiday hours.

Mention this ad and receive 15% off your holiday purchase.

FINE JEWELRY I CUSTOM SETTINGS JEWELRY REPAIR I Engraving HOLIDAY INSTALLMENT PLANS AVAILABLE 14015 SOUTHWEST FWY., SUGAR LAND, TX 77478 281.242.2900 I LOGGINSJEWELERS.COM

Exclamation Points!

Publisher, Patti Parish-Kaminski

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

Vol. 15 No. 2 December 2018 4655 Techniplex DR. Ste 700 Stafford, Tx 77477 281-690-4242

www.FORT BENDFOCUS.com

It’s absolutely the most wonderful time of the year! There’s great food, great friends, great family time, great presents and most important of all, gratefulness for all of our blessings. I’m grateful for so many things, and Christmas – the celebration of our Lord and Savior – is the perfect time to reflect on everything we have to be thankful for each and every day.

So many of our local businesses touch our lives on a daily basis, and in this issue, we bring you one of my favorite things: our Focus Favs Readers’ Choice Awards. Check out the 12 pages of our readers’ favs while you are getting your Patti and Tim Kaminski at the Houston Museum of home spruced up for the holidays or Natural Science’s Jingle Tree. while doing your Christmas shopping.

We at absolutely! focus media have so much to celebrate and be thankful for this holiday season. First and foremost, our advertisers, readers and subscribers are the reason we are able to do what we do: bring you the people, places and happenings in our community. For their support, we are eternally grateful. Our amazing team and our families who support us during our hectic deadlines of multiple magazines, community events and general monthly mayhem. We couldn’t do what we do without their support.

Above all, we are blessed, and we know where our blessings come from. From our family to yours, we wish you blessings, love and peace this most holy of seasons.

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

– Luke 2: 13-14 Stay focused and Merry Christmas!

olutely!

An abs

Merry

Publisher Patti Parish-Kaminski A SS O C IAT E P UBLISHER Jessica Kij A C C O U N T E X E C U T I V ES Michelle Cardiff-Feild Kay Garrett A RT D IRE C T O R Grace Belleza W EB D ESI G N ER Joey Belleza cont r i b u to r s M.G. Angulo Joan Frances Alisa Murray I N Q UIRIES 281-690-4242 e d i to r ia l SUB M ISSI O N S Patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Christmas to You!

Patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com Subscription requests are free to all Fort Bend addresses. Annual paid subscription of $25 required outside the Fort Bend area.

Fort Bend FocusTM Magazine is published by absolutely! focus media, 4655 Techniplex Dr., Ste. 700, Stafford, TX 77477. Copyright© 2018 by absolutely! focus media. All rights reserved.

Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Fort Bend FocusTM Magazine does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial, nor do the publishers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Fort Bend FocusTM Magazine welcomes editorial submissions from its readers.

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DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

is proud to welcome

Dr. Mirtha Gonzalez Dr. Mirtha Gonzalez is Nicaraguan by birth, Texan by choice, and Plastic Surgeon by training. Exposed to medicine at an early age through her father’s pediatric practice, Dr. Gonzalez knew early on that she would become a doctor. Dr. Gonzalez obtained her Bachelor of Science degree with honors from the University of Houston. She received her Doctorate of Medicine from UT Southwestern Medical School in Dallas. Inspired by the technical demands of the operating room and the ability to change lives with her hands, she pursued and completed a general surgery residency in the prestigious Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery at Baylor College of Medicine. Fulfilling a life-long passion to treat patients and to help improve their physical and mental well being, she elected to continue her training and completed her plastic surgery residency at the University of Miami/ Jackson Health System. After completing her training she decided to return home to Houston area, where she lives with her husband, Dr. Geoffrey Konopka.

Dr. Gonzalez is bilingual (English and Spanish) and she strives to provide excellent medical care to her patients with the wish to help change their lives by allowing them ACCEPTING to feel more comfortable and happy in their skin.

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SMART FINANCIAL CENTER

In August and September, we invited readers to our website to take an online survey to tell us who their Fort Bend favorites are in eight different categories:

FOOD ENTERTAINMENT SHOPPING AUTO SERVICES HOME IMPROVEMENT PROFESSIONAL SERVICES PET SERVICES

CARE SERVICES And boy, did they come through! With nearly 800 votes, readers voiced their opinion on their favorites. Take a look and see who won this year’s Fort Bend Focus Favs Readers’ Choice Awards!

6 Annual

2018 Voting for the 2018 Fort Bend Focus Favs Readers’ Choice Awards was conducted online at www.FortBendFocus.com from August 1 to September 30, 2018. The results were collected and tabulated using PollDaddy.com. In the event of a tie, all winners are listed.

th

Our Readers Voted for Their Focus Favs in Fort Bend Favorite Burger:

FOOD

TIE Guru Burgers & Crepes 2268 Texas Dr Sugar Land, TX 77479 AND

Local foodies spoke up loud and clear voting for their favorite eateries – yum!

Five Guys Burgers and Fries 2 Locations in Fort Bend Favorite Italian Restaurant: TIE

Favorite Brunch: The Egg & I Restaurant 9920 Highway 90-A Suite 150C Sugar Land, TX 77478 Favorite Pub: Flying Saucer Draught Emporium 15929 City Walk Sugar Land, TX 77479 Favorite Wine Bar: Vino & Vinyl 15977 City Walk Sugar Land, TX 77479 Favorite Margarita, Happy Hour & Favorite Mexican Food: Berryhill Baja Grill 13703 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478

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Corelli’s Italian Cafe 3229 Highway 6 Sugar Land, TX 77478 AND Antonia’s Italian Ristorante 4849 Sweetwater Boulevard Sugar Land, TX 77479 Favorite BBQ: Spring Creek Barbeque 4895 Highway 6 Missouri City, TX 77459 Favorite Diverse Dining: Thai Cottage 4723 Sweetwater Boulevard Sugar Land, TX 77479 Favorite Frozen Treats:

Favorite Martini

Marble Slab Creamery 4 Locations in Fort Bend

& Favorite Steakhouse:

Favorite Food Truck:

Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille 2115 Town Square Place Sugar Land, TX 77479

Cousin’s Maine Lobster 1449 W Loop S Houston, TX 77027

Favorite Pizza:

Favorite Bakery:

Grimaldi’s Coal Brick-Oven Pizzeria 16535 Southwest Freeway #2500 Sugar Land, TX 77479

Mystic Dessert Bar 13837 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478

DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

Our Readers Voted for Their Focus Favs in Fort Bend Favorite Coffee Bar: Favorite Healthy Eatery/Market: bellegreen 15903 City Walk Sugar Land, TX 77479-6542 Favorite Caterer: TIE Brandani’s Restaurant & Wine Bar 3340 FM 1092 Road #160 Missouri City, TX 77459 AND Safari Texas Ranch 11627 FM 1464 Richmond, TX 77407

Starbucks 18 Locations in Fort Bend

Fort Bend Fascinating Facts Tucked away off of FM 1464 in Richmond, Safari Texas Ranch is a special event facility that is uniquely special. The Ranch features eight event venues and six gazebos. Just this year, the Ranch introduced their newest ballroom – Infinity – that accommodates nearly 1,200 guests. The Ranch is also home to 48 animals including peacocks, zebra, deer and donkeys.

DECEMBER 2018 l

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Our Readers Voted for Their Focus Favs in Fort Bend

Favorite Movie Theatre:

RTAINMENT ENTE

AMC First Colony 24 3301 Town Center Boulevard S Sugar Land, TX 77479 Favorite Man Cave:

From theatres to outdoor recreation, readers got serious about voting for their favorite entertainment!

Favorite Fitness Gym: QUADRUPLE TIE Fort Bend Family YMCA 4433 Cartwright Road Missouri City, TX 77459 AND Koko FitClub 18318 University Boulevard Sugar Land, TX 77479 AND Lifetime Fitness 1331 Highway 6 Sugar Land, TX 77478 AND LA Fitness 2 Locations in Fort Bend Favorite Live Entertainment: TIE Sugar Land Town Square 15958 City Walk Sugar Land, TX 77479

The Flying Saucer Draught Emporium 15929 City Walk Sugar Land, TX 77479 Favorite Kid’s Entertainment: Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land 13016 University Boulevard Sugar Land, TX 77479 Favorite Country Club: Sweetwater Country Club 4400 Palm Royale Boulevard Sugar Land, TX 77479 Favorite Event Hall: Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land 18111 Lexington Boulevard Sugar Land, TX 77479

Fort Bend Fascinating Facts Hosting national music and comedy artists, family shows, theatrically-staged Broadway productions, as well as cultural and performing arts attractions, the 200,000-square-foot Smart Financial Centre put Sugar Land on the map as an entertainment mecca. With 14 luxury suites, corporate hospitality areas and the latest sound, light and video technology, artists such as Christina Aguilera, Willie Nelson, Tony Bennett and Martina McBride have all performed at Sugar Land’s favorite entertainment venue.

AND Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land 18111 Lexington Boulevard Sugar Land, TX 77479

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DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

Our Readers Voted for Their Focus Favs in Fort Bend

SHOPPING

ER AUTO S VICES

’Tis the season to shop ’til you drop!

Check out these favorite shopping spots.

When it comes to auto services, car enthusiasts aren’t shy about voting for their favorites.

Favorite Gift Shop/Holiday Shopping:

Favorite Auto Dealer:

TIE

TIE

First Colony Mall 16535 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77479

Audi Sugar Land 10330 US-90 ALT Sugar Land, TX 77478

AND

AND

Magpie’s Gifts 4837 Sweetwater Boulevard Sugar Land, TX 77479

Classic Chevrolet 13115 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478

Favorite Bargain Shopping: HomeGoods 2 Locations in Fort Bend Favorite Grocery Store & Wine Selection: H-E-B Texas Grocery 6 Locations in Fort Bend Favorite Shoe Store: DSW 2745 Town Center Boulevard N Sugar Land, TX 77479 Favorite Jewelry Store: Loggins Jewelers 14015 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land.

DECEMBER 2018 l

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Our Readers Voted for Their Focus Favs in Fort Bend

IMPROVEMENT HOME

From appliances and flooring to landscaping and design, check out readers’ go-to services for making their homes beautiful.

Fort Bend Fascinating Facts J & L Distributors, providing a myriad of custom home window treatments from blinds to motorized shades to draperies, has been a Fort Bend staple for homeowners for over 30 years.

They offer certified consultants to assist customers with the latest in window treatment options.

Favorite Pool Services: TIE Anthony & Sylvan Pools 24515 Katy Freeway #200 Katy, TX 77494

Favorite Home Improvement: J&L Distributors 707 Avenue E Stafford, TX 77477

AND Maddox Landscaping & Lawn Care 2105 Spacek Road Richmond, TX 77469

Favorite Appliance Store:

Favorite Plumbers:

Lowe’s 3 Locations in Fort Bend

Doug Turner Plumbing Co. 9945 Mula Road Stafford, TX 77477

Favorite Flooring Store:

Favorite Garden/Landscaping Company: Enchanted Nurseries & Landscape 6420 FM 359 Road Richmond, TX 77406

Lone Star Floors 10009 S Texas 6 Sugar Land, TX 77498 Favorite Heating/Air Conditioning Services: Custom Comfort Air 1821 Cottonwood School Road Rosenberg, TX 77471 Favorite Home Designer: The Design Firm 13013 Southwest Freeway Stafford, TX 77477

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DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

Our Readers Voted for Their Focus Favs in Fort Bend

PROFE

Fort Bend Fascinating Facts

SSIONAL SERVICES

Known for innovative and environmentallysensitive master planning, Johnson Development Corporation’s communities often rank among the nation’s top-selling. In the 556,160 acres of Fort Bend County, over 21,000 acres are award-winning Johnson Development communities.

Whether it’s building a home or ordering flowers, leave it to these favorite professionals!

Favorite Real Estate Agent:

Favorite Developer:

Denise McLarty – Keller Williams Southwest 1650 Highway 6 #350 Sugar Land, TX 77478

The Johnson Development Corporation 5777 Sienna Parkway, Suite 100 Missouri City, TX 77459 Sugar Creek • Sugar Land

Thank you Fort Bend for another successful year! I wish you and your loved ones a wonderful holiday season and a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!

WHAT A VIEW! Located on a quiet street in family friendly golf community of Sugar Creek, this treasure offers stunning curb appeal, mature landscaping, and breathtaking water front views in the backyard. Well maintained, this two story traditional brick home is updated and has a spacious kitchen, granite counter tops, and tons of windows to show off the backyard paradise with private dock and custom patio area. This extra large lot also has a nice side yard perfect for family fun. This home has High ceilings, two large living areas downstairs. Great Open and bright floorplan that offers one bedroom downstairs (currently being used as an office),and Master and two additional bedrooms upstairs with gorgeous pedestal bathtub. Spacious Gameroom with hardwood floors and wet bar. Balcony off of Master Bedroom, Plenty of storage throughout!

Fieldstone • Richmond

Denise McLarty 1650 Highway 6 713.876.0233

Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.har.com/DeniseMcLarty dmclarty@sbcglobal.net

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Stunningly gorgeous, gently lived in K Hovnanian Home has 6 bedrooms, 4 full baths home with a Formal dining room, huge covered porch with Second bedroom/Office with attached bathroom downstairs. Two-story Great room has a corner cast stone fireplace and is open to the Dining area and Sunroom. The Chef’s kitchen has upgraded BEAUTIFUL Granite countertops with beveled subway backsplash, oversized tile flooring, GE appliances, 42” upper cabinets, and a Custom Pantry door. Large owner’s suite with luxurious owner’s bath and large walk-in closet. 2nd floor includes 4 extremely spacious bedrooms and 2 full baths. Custom lights throughout have been added, Recessed lights added, solar screens, push button garbage disposal, Three car garage with tandem plus floored attic storage added in 2 areas, Sprinkler system front and back added. NO “BUILDER GRADE” HERE! Put this one on the TOP of your list!

DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

... for voting us “Fort Bend’s Favorite Developer” once again!

2016, 2017 & 2018

Our Readers Voted for Their Focus Favs in Fort Bend Favorite Home Builder: Darling Homes 6951 Overlook Hill Lane Sugar Land, TX 77479 Favorite Attorney/Law Firm: Law Office of Larry P McDougal 809 Houston Street Richmond, TX 77469 Favorite Bank/Credit Union: Wells Fargo 17 Locations in Fort Bend

We would like to thank our clients and thank those who voted us

Fort Bend Focus’ Favorite Real Estate Company!

Favorite Financial Services: TDECU Mortgage 9109 Sienna Christus Drive Missouri City, TX 77459 Favorite Insurance Agency: Jeremy Adams State Farm Insurance Agency 9722 US 90A Suite 103 Sugar Land, TX 77478

281.242.2600

1226 Museum Square • Sugar Land Favorite Real Estate Company: TRIPLE TIE Coldwell Banker 1226 Museum Square Drive Sugar Land, TX 77479 AND Keller Williams Southwest 1650 Highway 6 #350 Sugar Land, TX 77478 AND RE/MAX Fine Properties 4500 Highway 6 Sugar Land, TX 77478 Favorite Florist: Flowers By Adela 2 Locations in Fort Bend

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DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

Our Readers Voted for Their Focus Favs in Fort Bend

PET SERVICES

With the holidays around the corner, have your four-legged friends taken care of at Fort Bend’s finest!

Favorite Day Care/ Boarding Services: TIE Lone Star Pet Lodges 3207 Williamsburg Lane Missouri City, TX 77459 AND Fondren 5 Star Pet Resort 14420 Fondren Road Missouri City, TX 77489 Favorite Grooming: Woof Gang Bakery and Grooming 3 Locations in Fort Bend Favorite Veterinarian: Lake Olympia Animal Hospital 20413 S. University Boulevard Missouri City, TX 77459

DECEMBER 2018 l

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Our Readers Voted for Their Focus Favs in Fort Bend

ER CARE S VICES

Where Children Learn and Grow

Get an Early Start to Your Child’s Education

Our readers don’t trust their kids to just anyone. From preschool to college, check out their favorite child care services.

Favorite Day Care: Children’s Learning Adventure 5320 Highway 6 Missouri City, TX 77459 Favorite Private School: Gingerbread Kids’ Academy 814 Minonite Road Richmond, TX 77469 Favorite College/Technical School: University of Houston – Sugar Land 14000 University Boulevard Sugar Land, TX 77479

I’m Ready to Learn!

Quality, Affordable Early Childhood Education Programs

Attention Readers: Are there some categories for your favs that you would like to see in our 2019 Fort Bend Focus Favs Readers’ Choice Awards?

Let us know!

E-mail your favorite categories to Grace@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Convenient Access to Hwy 59 281-239-2110 www.gbkidsacademy.com

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DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

Focus Favs in Fort Bend

NEWSWORTHY

2018 Sounds of The Season Holiday Luncheon Presented by The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Where Children Learn and Grow

Infants Toddlers

Monday thru Friday 6:30 am to 6:30 pm

3 and 4 year-old Private, Full-Day Pre-K Programs K-5th After-School Programs for Drop Off and Pick-Up from Thomas, Williams, Arredondo and Carter Elementary Thank You to Our Families and Friends for Supporting Our New Location

Contact Tim Kaminski for a tour at

814 FM 2977 281-239-2110 Richmond www.gbkidsacademy.com twkaminski@sbcglobal.net 77469

Jerome Love

The holiday season is upon us – let’s celebrate! It is that time of the year to get out of the office and spread some holiday cheer. The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce will host its annual Sounds of the Season Holiday Luncheon on Friday, December 7th from 11:30 am – 1 pm at Sweetwater Country Club. This festive holiday luncheon is a great way to celebrate this year’s successes with clients, staff and friends.

Help us welcome special guest, Jerome Love, successful entrepreneur and award-winning author of five books, including best-seller, Get Up, Get Out and Get Motivated. The life lessons Jerome has experienced has helped drive his entrepreneurial spirit and sincere passion for helping others succeed. His vivid stories will make you dig deep within to discover the motive that fuels your motivation.

Prior to Jerome taking the stage, guests will be welcomed with seasonal songs by the Stafford High School Choir and Sheila Garcia of Life as She Does It. Do not miss this joyous Fort Bend Chamber tradition!

Presenting sponsorship includes a table for 10, logo inclusion on marketing materials and recognition at event for $2,500. Reserve your seat today with corporate tables at $500 (table for 10) or $400 (table for 8) or individual tickets are $35. Contact Juliette Nessmith for reservations: 281-566-2161 or juliette@fortbendcc.org.

DECEMBER 2018 l

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FEATURE

A

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Patient Finds Unique Way to Help Children Understand Breast Cancer

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital patient with a long family history of breast cancer used her experience to write a children’s book, with the goal of helping youth understand the disease and its impact on the women in their lives.

Ashley Dedmon’s book, titled The Big Discovery, is an educational tool that helps families, especially children, navigate the difficult journey that breast cancer presents. The book’s foreword, or preface, was written by board-certified breast surgeon Sandra Templeton, M.D. of Houston Methodist Breast Surgery Partners.

As a young woman, Dedmon lost her mother to breast cancer and watched her father battle prostate cancer. With a family history that includes three generations of women affected by breast cancer, Dedmon decided to undergo genetic testing and discovered she was BRCA 2 positive, a leading marker for the disease. After undergoing extensive cancer monitoring for a decade, Dedmon sought out Templeton to discuss other options. Together, they developed a plan to prevent a possible occurrence of cancer – a bilateral prophylactic mastectomy, which Templeton successfully performed in December 2016.

Inspired by the outstanding care she received from Templeton and the staff at Houston Methodist Sugar Land, Dedmon made the decision during her recovery to write The Big Discovery.

“There were times I felt so helpless, trying to make my two-year-old understand why I couldn’t hold her or pick her up,” Dedmon recalled. “It reminded me of when my mother was sick and how she felt trying to explain her cancer journey with me. I also reflected on my time as a teacher when I found that students who faced difficult life

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Sandra Templeton, M.D., F.A.C.S. with Ashley Dedmon, MPH, CHES® author of The Big Discovery.

challenges needed someone to explain things to them in a way they could understand.”

The Big Discovery includes sections on early detection, testing and the diagnosis of breast cancer, as well as inspiring stories from survivors and open-ended questions to help prompt discussions with children.

“Ashley had to make a difficult decision for her own health and well-being, and she did so with courage and grace,” said Templeton. “But she didn’t stop there – she decided to use her experience, and those of other women in her life, to write The Big Discovery and help others face their own challenges.

DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

It’s a valuable tool for woman fighting breast cancer who have young children or grandchildren, and I’m proud to have been involved.”

Dedmon is now the founder of Pink Legacy 50/50, a platform that educates, equips and empowers individuals who are impacted by breast and ovarian cancer or who are at high-risk for cancer. Visit pinklegacy.com to order a copy of The Big Discovery.

To learn more about Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, visit www. houstonmethodist.org/sugarland or for the latest news, events and information follow our Facebook page at fb.com/methodistsugarland.

NEWSWORTHY

Sugar Land Branch Library’s “Art and Culture” Series Focuses On Gothic Cathedrals Fort Bend County Libraries’ Sugar Land Branch Library will have an educational series focusing on “Art and Culture.” The first program in the series, “Art and Culture: Gothic CaSheba Akhtar thedrals,” will take place on Saturday, December 15th, from 2 to 4 pm, in the Meeting Room of the library, located at 550 Eldridge.

In this segment in the series, former architecture professor Sheba Akhtar will talk about Gothic architecture and art, which flourished in Europe during the High and Late Middle Ages, originating in 12th-century France and lasting into the 16th century.

Hear about how characteristics of the Gothic period, including urbanization, economic prosperity, professional guilds, the crusades (1095-1291), and the veneration of the Virgin Mary, influenced the design of structures such as the Basilica of St. Denis, Chartres Cathedral, and Notre Dame Cathedral. Akhtar will also talk about Abbott Suger and the incorporation of stained-glass windows in structures.

Akhtar received her Master of Architecture degree from the University of Pennsylvania and taught art and architecture history for 20 years. She has practiced as an architect in the United States, England, Scotland, Jordan, and Pakistan. She is the author of “Of Colour and Form” and numerous articles on art and architecture.

The series will continue in January and February with programs on Renaissance Art and Impressionism.

The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call the Sugar Land Branch Library at 281-2382140 or 281-633-4734.

May Joy be your gift at Christmas & may Faith, Hope & Love be your treasure in the New Year!

Sending Christmas Love to all – Arlene

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Fort Bend Boys Choir Open Auditions

NEWSWORTHY

Kick Off your Holiday Season with a Fort Bend Boys Choir Concert Boy . . . can they sing! You can hear (and see) for yourself at the Fort Bend Boys Choir’s annual Christmas Musicale concert on Saturday, December 1st at 7 pm at the First United Methodist Church – Missouri City. Three treble choirs – Training, Town and Tour – will be showcased along with Music Magic, the organization’s class of six-and seven-year-olds.

Tickets are available on the choir website or at the door.

Adult admission is $15 and children 12 and under are $5. All proceeds from the Christmas Musicale are used for program support, operational expenses and scholarships. Visit the Fort Bend Boys Choir’s website at www.fbbctx.org or call 281- 2403800 for more details.

Malachy Marshall and Benjamin Ninan.

Boys age eight and older with unchanged voices who love music and singing can audition. No previous experience is necessary. Open auditions will be held at the First United Methodist Church Missouri City, 3900 Lexington Blvd., in Missouri City from 9 am – 12 Noon on Saturday, December 8th. Special appointments are available if a boy cannot attend the open audition date. Scholarships and carpooling assistance are available! Be sure to also ask about Music Magic, the choir’s music enrichment class for six-and sevenyear-old boys starting March 2019!

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DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

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Brought to you by

Hometown Heroes:

Mary Favre

T

By Joan Frances

here are residents in Fort Bend County who have magnetic qualities that draw people to them. They are modest, positive and generous with their time, committed and engaged in contributing to the community. Our Hometown Hero fit this description and much more: meet Mary Favre.

Favre moved from Houston to Sugar Land in 1994, the day she was diagnosed with breast cancer, and she knew this area would help her heal. She and her husband, Carl, raised one granddaughter as their own, Zoe. Favre has two stepsons, Chris and Nick, who are married Mary Favre with children. They started the C&M Favre Foundation over 10 years ago as a vehicle to give back to the community. Their passion for devoting their time to helping other people came from Matthew 25:40, “I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.”

Carl passed in 2015. Locally, he was the real estate “legal eagle” for Sugarland Properties, Inc, the developer of First Colony, for over 20 years. Favre explained, “In fact, we announced our engagement at the December 1993 association board meeting – he was serving on the board at the time.

Now, 23 years later, I was asked by members to serve on the board. It has been a joy.”

Favre is a talented and insightful photographer. “Over the course of many years, I have taken pictures for various non-profit organizations and through this path, I have really grown to appreciate our neighborhood and getting to know so many personal stories. We live in an amazing community, and I am just a piece to the puzzle.”

For the past 10 years, because of Favre’s extensive volunteering in the community and highly respected photography skills, she has been acknowledged by many organizations. In 2004, she Mary Favre and Ray Aguilar. was honored to be Volun-

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teer of the Year at Colony Meadows Elementary and in 2009, awarded the Media Person of the Year by Child Advocates of Fort Bend.

She was also bestowed the Fort Bend Blue Ribbon Award from Child Advocates in 2012.

Favre received the True Believer Award from Parks Youth Ranch in 2014, and last January, she received the Chairman’s Award from the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce.

Favre explained, “I take pictures for the Chamber, but I’m not a member, I am ‘Citizen’ Favre. The little story about that was everyone was giving out their titles, and I really don’t have a title, so I just said ‘Citizen’ at every Chamber event, my nametag has my name and ‘Citizen’ as my title. My involvement in our community has been recognized, but truly I am the one who is blessed.”

“A Little Help From My Friends” makes it so much fun!,” said Mary Favre.

Mary Favre with Randy Kozlovsky, Liz Furman and Elsa Maxey.

Currently, Favre serves on the board of two organizations: First Colony Community Services Association (FCCSA) and Parks Youth Ranch. FCCSA is First Colony’s home owner’s association and Parks Youth Ranch is the emergency shelter for homeless teenagers in Fort Bend County.

Favre’s real passion has always been history, including genealogy. This last year in collaboration with the First Colony Community Services Association, Favre helped produce a video showcasing First Colony’s history. “Producing the video with the FCCSA was to help celebrate our rich history and educate citizens about the undertaking of developing a master-planned community with nearly 10,000 acres of commercial and residential properties. It was fun interviewing citizens and businesses and understanding why they chose to live in First Colony and remain engaged in our community.”

Thank you Mary Favre for your undeniable generosity and magnanimous fortitude. You are helping to make Fort Bend County a better place to live for everyone.

DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

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DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

Fort Bend ISD Voters Approve $992.6 Million Bond Referendum Fort Bend Independent School District (FBISD) voters approved a $992.6 million bond package Tuesday, amounting to the largest bond program in the growing District’s history. According to the unofficial results, 74 percent of Fort Bend ISD voters supported the bond proposal. Projects included in the bond referendum included funding for the construction of new schools and classroom additions, safety and security enhancements, renovations to address maintenance and adequacy throughout the District, and transportation and technology.

The District currently serves more than 76,000 students, with enrollment expected to reach 85,700 by the year 2027.

“The approved 2018 Bond Program marks a significant investment in the future of Fort Bend ISD, and will support achievement of our mission and vision.

I am thankful for the community’s ongoing engagement and support on behalf of our students,” said FBISD Superintendent of Schools Dr. Charles Dupre.

“While a large portion of the program is allocated for the construction of new schools, our community has also shown a willingness to ensure that our current students at existing schools throughout the District have the same access to quality learning environments, safe spaces and technology resources. We are excited to move forward on this important work.”

The FBISD Board of Trustees called for the November 6 bond election at its August 13 Board Meeting.

The bond package included:

• $403.4 million for new construction, rebuilds and additions • $396.5 million for life-cycle deficiencies and facility adequacy, including auditorium updates, orchestra hall additions, and turf and track updates at many schools • $14.9 million for safety and security upgrades and investments • $10.6 million for transportation • $142.6 million for technology • $19.7 million for future land purchases • $5 million for program contingency Notable projects included in the bond package include construction of three new elementary campuses, the design of one middle school, construction of one high school, the rebuild of Lakeview Elementary and Meadows Elementary, and additions at Madden Elementary and Neill Elementary. While the successful bond election will not necessitate any immediate change in the tax rate of $1.32, a potential three penny increase may be needed during the duration of the three-year program, with the earliest increase not anticipated until 2020.

Following voter approval of the $992.6 bond program, Fort Bend ISD will now begin a concerted and expedited process to move forward on the projects included in the bond program.

Construction is already underway on Elementary 51 in the Aliana community, and the District has engaged architects to begin designing a new Lakeview Elementary and Meadows Elementary, to be built at their current sites.

“The passage of this bond comes on the heels of the 2014 Bond Program – and we are excited to be able to build upon its success,” said Board President Jason Burdine “As a district, we have learned many lessons that will lead to a more deliberate and efficient program delivery. Our community members want to see progress at their school quickly – and we look forward to making these projects a reality and keeping our stakeholders informed along the way.”

A Bond Oversight Committee made up of community members of various backgrounds will meet on an ongoing basis throughout the program’s delivery to receive updates and provide oversight of the projects included.

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Chaplain Billy Guerrero, John Valimattathil, Steve Hathaway and Paige Adelaide.

By M.G. Angulo Photos by Alisa Murray Photography

The Richmond State Supported Living Center

Christmas magic Project Noel

Preserves

through

A

mid a now highlycommercialized holiday season, hope is found in Richmond. Hope for Christmas nostalgia. Hope for a continuation of classic community. Hope for finding joy in the beautiful but simple things in life.

Just as it has been the case since 1973, the Richmond State Supported Living Center (RSSLC), formerly known as the Richmond State School, will again host its annual Christmas tradition, Project Noel, which will open at 6 pm on Friday, November 30th.

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Project Noel will run, for free, from 6 pm to 9 pm nightly from November 30th through January 1st, but on the first two weekends – November 30th – December 2nd and December 7th through December 9th – visitors will have a chance to meet a very special guest. Santa will be at Project Noel and visitors can take photos with him after completing the tour.

“There will also be food trucks with hot chocolate during those two weekends,” said Judy Schmid, a Richmond State Supported Living Center Volunteer Services Council board member who has been involved with the center since 1981, the enthusiasm for the special holiday project clear in her voice.

DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

Hosted by the center’s Volunteer Services Council, Project Noel is a collection of sparkling lights and more than 60 Christmas-themed scenes that range from Star Wars and the Grinch to classic favorites like Mr. and Mrs. Claus and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Guests can view the decorations and scenes from the comfort of their car as they cruise the 241-acred decorated campus at 2100 Preston Street in Richmond.

“It started out with just large Christmas cards on the light poles,” said Schmid. “And over the years, it evolved into what it is today. We have three-dimensional displays and animated ones, too. I just love this project

Thirty-year volunteer BJ Donegan and 27-year volunteer Donna Wasser at the Country Store.

so much. I enjoy watching it go up. I enjoy greeting people at the gates when they arrive. I enjoy all the memories I had helping make displays years ago.”

The memories of each former holiday season are still fresh with Schmid, and when she thinks of each one, each with its own quirks and lessons, she cannot help but laugh sweetly. “It is something we have a lot of fun doing,” she said of the yearly construction of Project Noel.

“And it’s done with love.”

er Volunte es niti u t r o p p O

50 Years of Service

Although seemingly tucked away in its own world, the Richmond State Supported Living Center in Richmond is a root that runs deep in the Fort Bend community. In April the center celebrated 50 years of service with a special celebration that featured state representatives, senators and judges from Austin, Brazoria, Chambers, Colorado, Fort Bend, Galveston, Hardin, Harris, Jefferson, Matagorda, Orange, Waller and Wharton counties, all of which the center serves.

The center opened April 15, 1968 as a result of state legislation and The George Foundation. It was in 1961 that the Texas Legislature approved the establishment of the state school for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the Gulf Coast area, and following that approval, a group of local residents asked The George Foundation for support in funding a local center.

Judy Schmid and resident of RSSLC Walter Wingo.

Richmond State Supported Living Center

T

he Richmond State Supported Living Center offers opportunities, through its Volunteer Services Council, for the community to get involved, including the following:

Displays for Project Noel: Construct, paint or repair exhibits displayed during the Christmas holidays. New displays can be constructed of wood, metal, paper mache`, etcetera. Also, many of the older displays are in need of re-construction.

Wrap Parties: Each man and woman residing at the center will receive birthday and Christmas gifts each year. This equates to more than 1,000 gifts. The center needs service groups of no more than 10 people per two-hour shift to help wrap these gifts. Parties begin the first week in November and last to the middle of December.

Play Santa or His Elves: Help is needed to play Santa and/or his elves during Project Noel. Costumes are provided for volunteers.

Visit with Individuals: Read stories, play games and assemble puzzles, assist with various arts and crafts projects and assist an individual in creating a scrapbook.

The Campus Resale Shop: Sort through donations and operate all aspects of the Country Store, including helping individuals shop. Hours of operation are Tuesdays and Fridays from 10 am to 2:30 pm.

Assist at the Therapeutic Riding Center: SIRE is a non-profit organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life for people with special needs through therapeutic horsemanship activities and therapies and educational outreach.

Vegas Texas Style Volunteers: Volunteer for the Vegas Texas Style fundraising event.

Personal Advocate for an Individual: Become a friend to an individual that encourages the person to make clear and rational decisions.

Guardian Ship Committee: Volunteers will be a resource for people interested in becoming a guardian for an individual residing at the center.

Human Rights Committee: Ensure the safety, welfare and protection of human, constitutional and special/additional rights of individuals receiving services at the center.

Assist with Religious Services: Assist with ongoing faith services and important celebrations for individuals to include Catholic, Jewish and other religions, or volunteer to take individuals to area churches for community integration experiences.

Stage Concerts or Theatrical Performances: Sing and/or play musical instruments with a group or individually for the people living at the center.

Party with the Individuals: Host a party for one or more homes on campus, or host a campus event for all individuals.

Adopt a Flower Bed: Place your name and/or your organization’s name in a flower-bed that you maintain or help individuals maintain.

To become a volunteer at the Richmond State Supported Living Center, 33 DECEMBER 2018 l visit www.govsc.org/get-involved.

Baylee Byrd with Santa (James Marshall), Mrs. Claus (Luella Marshall) and Shelby Byrd.

The foundation agreed and donated the very land that the center currently sits on. Construction on the center began in October 1965, and when it opened in 1968, 40 residents called it home. Today the center serves more than 300 residents, has a staff of more than 1,250 full-time employees and is Fort Bend County’s sixth largest employer.

Progress with the times is a trend evident at the Richmond State Supported Living Center, but with that progress, the center has preserved many traditions, including its most treasured one: Project Noel. What makes this annual tradition so unique, however, is that children who grew up in the early 1970s, when Project Noel made its debut, also took their children and then their grandchildren to the Christmas tour. And when those grandchildren got older and started families of their own, they, in turn, began taking their children.

And the beautiful cycle continues. “So many generations have enjoyed Project Noel, and it’s still as magical as that first time,” said Schmid. “I know I still look forward to it every single year.”

A Tradition Preserved

The idea for Project Noel was born in 1970, starting with the decision to decorate all of the light posts at the school like candy canes. The goal was to introduce a morale booster of sorts to the staff, allowing them a chance to unite and be creative over something fun and wholesome that they, as well as the residents, could enjoy.

Three years later, Rick Manuel, the center’s former maintenance technician, decided to enhance the effort by turning Project Noel into the popular tradition it is today. Manuel remained in charge until he retired, which is when the Volunteer Services Council of the Richmond State Supported Living Center took over the annual program.

Residents of the center eventually began helping staff with the Christmas displays, taking the opportunity to show-

34

case to the surrounding communities the talent found at the center. Talent to make the holiday season tangible. Talent to evoke a precious wistfulness for times long gone.

“It used to be, in the olden days, that we were the only place to go for Christmas displays like that,” Schmid added.

“But of course, over the years, neighborhoods starting doing that.”

But instead of dividing itself from the community, the Richmond State Supported Living Center opened its arms, welcoming Christmas displays from the public. “It has been great getting the community involved,” Schmid said. “Last year people from the community created some scenes from us, and yes, they were amazing. And some others are making displays this year.”

This, Schmid said, is what being a part of a community is all about. And in light of a massive influx of people to Fort Bend who did not grow up in the Richmond-Rosenberg area, the Richmond State Supported Living Center is trying to increase knowledge about Project Noel, so that those who did not grow up with it are informed of its existence. “I think there are a lot of people who don’t know about what we do here, and as a result, Project Noel has taken a bit of a back seat,” shared Schmid. “But we want the new people in our community to see what we have to offer.”

And what Project Noel offers is a chance to make warm and pure memories that can impact people for decades to come. It offers a reminder of what the season is all about — love, community and finding the simple pleasures in life.

“When we greet people at the gates of Project Noel, I always hear some of them say: ‘My grandmother used to bring me when I was a kid,’ or something like that. That’s always nice to hear.”

Just like every year before, Schmid finds herself getting excited about this year’s event. And if anyone visits Project Noel on the second weekend, chances are he or she will see Schmid’s smiling face at the gates. “I love the atmosphere of Project Noel, and I love seeing families come back again and again.”

For more information about the Richmond State Supported Living Center or Project Noel, visit www.govsc.org.

Setting up Christmas displays: John Valimattathil, Steve Hathaway, Andrew Deleon and Mark Springer.

DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

Kristin Lytle is

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Thank you to clients & friends for a great year.

Happy Holidays!

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The Most Wonderful Gifts of The Year DECEMBER 2018 l

35

HOLIDAY

VIRGINS, SAINTS AND ANGELS

Loggins Jewelers debuts a new affordable line: Virgins, Saints and Angels

by Cheryl Finnegan. A blend of unique styles that reflect fashionable and trendy jewelry starting at $99, for Christmas and every day – the look is Loggins.

Loggins Jewelers, 14015 Southwest Freeway in Sugar Land.

Call 281-242-2900; www.logginsjewelers.com.

The Gift of Pure Relief

Pamper the ladies on your holiday list with the gift of smooth and nourished skin. Aveda products are a touching gift for hands and feet.

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Ride in Style

Get a hot new ride this holiday season.

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Triple Essential Elixir

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Salman Aly, MD PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN • Board Certified in Internal Medicine • Experienced in Geriatric and Hospital Medicine • Botox, Dermal Fillers, Low T Syndrome • Hyperbaric & Advanced Wound Care For appointments call:

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Perfect for the Pilot

The Pilot Shop at Anson Aviation is loaded with great ideas for airplane lovers! Visit Anson Aviation at Sugar Land Regional Airport.

Anson Aviation, Call 281-242-2555; www.ansonair.com.

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TRAVEL

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Fun for the Entire Family

Hyatt Ziva’s Caribbean Gem:

Rose Hall in Montego Bay

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ocated in the Caribbean, this all-inclusive and all ages resort boasts luxurious amenities for all ages to enjoy. The Rose Hall property in Montego Bay offers 277 spacious all-suite accommodations. Guests will find suites with signature swim ups, including well-appointed butler service suites for the discriminating traveler.

Activities for all ages at the Hyatt Ziva abound. The KidZ Club offers supervised activities for all ages daily, while the Tranquil ZEN Spa, beach cabanas and fitness center offer activities for adults. With thirteen specialty restaurants and gourmet buffets to appease any appetite, Hyatt Ziva concierges will book not only meals but excursions for adults and children on both land and sea.

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Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall’s catamaran.

DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

The indulgence of island life could not be more simple as everything is included when staying at Hyatt Ziva’s Rose Hall resort. Guests can set sail on a kayak, reserve a catamaran – my personal favorite – or drop into the crystal waters of the Caribbean and snorkel. The property has both a relaxation pool, as well as a larger pool that hosts fun, friendly and engaging activities and events each day. Guests will never be bored with all that this property offers. The staff offer dance lessons and chef-led cooking classes amongst other sports, such as water ping pong to pass time away. At the KidZ club, each day brings more fun for exploration for all ages, such as beach games, art and fun activities. Kids can even go to a pajama and disco party while the teens play video games.

Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall’s one bedroom ocean view swim-up butler suite terrace.

Each evening after soaking up the sunshine and enjoying a sunset cocktail, guests will be further pleased to find a full entertainment schedule. From dance shows to theatrical and musicals – and even acrobatics – the international artists complete your vacation beautifully by making memories well into the night.

For those wanting the ultimate in pampering and relaxation, the ZEN Spa offers it all. A full-service spa with everything from body wraps and massages to exclusively Caribbean inspired healing therapies, unique hair braiding and manicures, the ZEN Spa is the perfect place to unwind.

The vast variety of restaurants offered insures that each family member will be satisfied and in some cases, entertained, In addition to the main restaurants, the resort boasts a coffee house and six bars. Di Roza offers old world Italian cuisine with private rooms and roaring fireplaces. Homemade pastas and wood fire pizzas are a guest favorite. The Blue Grill at Calypzo offers seafood caught

Give a Gift Certificate from Anson Aviation

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We’re based at the award-winning Sugar Land Regional Airport.

Call 281-242-2555 or visit ansonair.com.

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DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall’s one bedroom ocean view butler suite.

fresh daily. Fuzion is modern Asian inspired cuisine where the chefs create tantalizing meals on grilling stations and offer a specialized menu for children’s younger tastes. Brazil is where guests will find a churrascaria style array of various grilled meats and fish caught fresh that day accompanied by a buffet style salad and cold cut bar. For guests who want to just grab and go, CHOICEZ is the perfect fit – flaky pastries, classic Jamaican fare and the evening gets more charming with a themed presentation.

There’s also a Jerk Shack, and for those with a the sweet tooth, there’s BITEZ serving ice creams and coffee amongst other sweets. Guests can also grab a beer and watch a game at Union Jack’s.

Offering Minimally Invasive, State-Of-The-Art, Endovascular Solutions for Various Medical Conditions in Fort Bend County Conditions treated:

Jaideep Barge, MD Diplomate of the American Board of Radiology

Vascular and Interventional Radiologist

• Peripheral Vascular Disease • Venous Disease • Retained IVC Filters • Symptomatic Uterine Fibroids • Symptomatic Scrotal Varicoceles • Painful Thoracolumbar Spinal Fractures • Liver Cancer and Metastatic Disease to the Liver

Procedures offered: • Angioplasty, Atherectomy and Stenting • Uterine Fibroid Embolization • Scrotal Varicocele Embolization • Percutaneous Balloon Kyphoplasty for Spine Fractures • Transarterial Chemoembolization of Liver Cancer • Transarterial Radioembolization (Yttrium-90) of Liver Metastasis • Complex IVC Filter Retrievals

713-242-4046 • www.houstonrad.com Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital 17500 W. Grand Pkwy. S. • Sugar Land, TX 77479

Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall’s Barefoot Jerkz.

When booking a family vacation, it is always important to plan something with everyone in mind. For families who have both small children and teens, or even love traveling with grandparents, sometimes finding a perfect fit for everyone is a little daunting. The Hyatt Zilva property in Rose Hall, Montego Bay really has something for everyone. With plenty of activities, nightly entertainment, luxury fine dining, as well as a conscious staff catering to the taste of smaller visitors, guests will leave relaxed with everyone remembering their adventures together for years to come!

Dr. Y Bryan Lee Informed patients choose Board Certified Podiatrist Dr. Y Bryan Lee for all their foot health needs.

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Seen on the Scene Hope Endowment 8th Annual Gala Benefitting Hope Endowment’s Children in India September 15, 2018 • Sugar Land Marriott

Photos by Danny Nguyen.

The Unique Jewelry Boutique 1

Pratima 22k Carnelian Pendant and Handmade Chain

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Tanzanite Stunning Blue Earrings Mounted in 18k White Gold

Louis Glick Fabulous Fancy Yellow Diamond Ring

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MALL RING RD.

1 Roopam Patedar with Veena & Rohit Desai & Prerna Patedar 2 Joel Kneitz & Gaylynn Thomas 3 Pierre & Kay Chevray 4 Satin & Seema Sanghi 5 Bindoo & Surendra Patel 6 Leslie Woods, Deanna McDonald, Patsy Collins & Patti Parish-Kaminski 7 Tanya & Rick Pal 8 Stuti & Niraj Patel 9 Amy Mynderse & Divya Reddy 10 Benjamin & Karen Yeager

DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

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Join us for a special event!

Featuring Jewelry by

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Friday December 7th 4 pm – 8 pm

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& Meera Kapur 18 Tejash & Beejal Patel 19 Molly Mathew & Molly Philip

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Saturday December 8th 10 am – 6 pm

Plus a full complement of silver & gold fashion jewelry, colored gemstones, pearls & giftware.

2735 Town Center Blvd. N, Suite E • Sugar Land 281-313-0600 Huttonsjewelers.com DECEMBER 2018 l

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Seen on the Scene Fort Bend Seniors Presents the Mad Hatter Adventure “Totally 80’s Throwback” Benefitting Meals on Wheels October 12th, 2018 • Safari Texas Ranch

Coming January

Here Comes the Bride

Submit your info today and have your wedding details and photos published in print and online in our magazine.

If you or your children have recently married and you would like to enter for a chance to be featured in our Here Comes the Bride, all you need is at least ten high-resolution photos of the ceremony and/or reception. It doesn’t matter where the wedding took place, as long as it was in the last year and you or your parent/s reside in Fort Bend area. Photographers are also welcome to submit photos.

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1 Freddy Lopez, Paul & Janice Knight & Ray Aguilar 2 Leah Ghobrial & Liz Toomey 3 Katie Lindeman & Kelli Walleck 4 Michelle Lovelace & Linda Nolty 5 Loretta Rodriguez & Amber Kay 6 Marion Pope & Rick Branek 7 Kelly Pepping & Meghan Parson 8 Rick & Sharon Forlano 9 Tiffany McNeal, Valerie Bellaci &

Sandra McNeal 10 Hector & Angela Vasquez

DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

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NEWSWORTHY

Seen on the Scene Fort Bend Education Foundation Hosts 4th Annual Sugar Shindig October 26, 2018 • Safari Texas Ranch

Family Musical for the Holidays at Inspiration Stage

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Sugar Land’s national award-winning community theatre, Inspiration Stage, offers a family-friendly show for the holidays at the historic Sugar Land Auditorium, located at 226 Lakeview Dr. In cooperation with and at the special invitation of iTheatrics and Music Theatre International (MTI), Inspiration Stage will cooperatively develop, produce and present the junior adaptation of the musical version of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, JR., Inspiration Stage’s second pilot production of the season. iTheatrics adapts main stage Broadway musicals so they can be performed by kids in school and after-school settings. They create these adaptations for a distinguished list of clients, including MTI, one of the world’s leading theatrical licensing agencies. Through the pilot process, the new Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer JR. adaptation will eventually be available for all theatres to license in the future.

“We’re thrilled to have been chosen to pilot a second iTheatrics/MTI show this season, after our successful Matilda JR. pilot production in October,” said Mandy Seymore-Sensat, Inspiration Stage’s artistic director. “It’s a huge honor and a lot of fun to get to pilot this fastmoving, fun, musical presentation of a holiday classic.”

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer JR. offers eight shows over two weekends, November 30th – December 9th.

The title role has been double cast with 10-year-old Holden Hagelberger appearing in half the shows and 11-year-old Jaxon Daniel in the other half.

“I am excited to play Rudolph in this pilot production because I love the story of Rudolph, and I can’t wait to bring him to life onstage,” said Hagelberger, an Avalon at Riverstone resident and Austin Parkway Elementary fifth grader performing in his thirteenth Inspiration Stage show.

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1 Allison Wen, Brenna Cosby, Matt Minor & Gary Pearson 2 Karen & Ed Vaughn 3 Vernon & Carolyn Madden 4 Allison Bernstein, Kelly Fao & Claire Evans 5 Angie Wendel & Azuzena Tovias 6 Hillary Dunn & Carol Evans 7 Jessica Knox & Niza Saeed 8 Jennifer Sutter, Jane Smith, Leeanne

Hrebenar & Courtney Robertson 9 Jim Rice 10 Leigh & James Mattson

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NEWSWORTHY

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11 Edie Drake, J’Mal Stewart & Jennye Gorrosquieta 12 Paula Brown as Olaf 13 Cathy & Dale Temple 14 Heather Anderson & Evelyn Alexis 15 Jessica Kij & Suzanne Fotorny 16 Porsha Dudley, Michelle Menon

& Patricia Ray 17 Pete & Nancy Olson 18 Kathy & John Robson 19 Charles & Seeju Dupre 20 Stephanie Clayton &

Sarah Kumar 21 Lee & Lynette Bishop

Daniel, a Heritage Colony resident and also a fifth grader at Austin Parkway Elementary, is relatively new to theatre, having performed in five Inspiration Stage productions since beginning theatre less than a year ago.

“Rudolph is one of my favorite characters in one of my favorite Christmas TV shows, so I am very excited about this role,” Daniel said. “Inspiration Stage is fun and you get to meet new friends. I like to sing, act, and dance and the directors there teach you and care for you.”

The musical has all of the favorite characters from the special including Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and of course, Rudolph. It’s an adventure that teaches us that what makes you different can be what makes you special, and it speaks to the misfit in all of us.

The new junior musical is based on the animated television special Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and the stage production directed and conceived by Jeff Frank and First Stage.

Sienna Plantation’s Abby Deloney, 11, a sixth grader at Thornton Middle School, is one of the young actors cast as Clarice, and the role was double-cast with Pecan Grove’s Ashley Gilberg. She is excited to be in her fifth Inspiration Stage production.

“I am excited about being in this pilot production surrounded by my friends and amazing directors,” Deloney said. “It is even more exciting that I was chosen to play Clarice, because Rudolph is one of my favorite classic Christmas shows! It is so fun to be in the musical version of a show I have grown up watching every Christmas.”

Visit inspirationstage.com/shows/ for tickets and more information.

Inspiration Stage is a national award-winning performance arts studio located in the historic Sugar Land Auditorium at 226 Lakeview Dr. The 2018/2019 season includes youth and adult productions, as well as acting and production classes. Tuition assistance is available to qualifying participants. For tickets and information, visit www.inspirationstage.com.

Submit newsworthy items to Patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

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High School HOT SHOT

By Joan Frances Photos by XXXXXX

Meet Brazil Bartholomew

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ightower High School continues to prepare students to graduate and to consider the next step to a productive future. One senior who has achieved a successful four years in academics, extracurricular and sports activities is Brazil Bartholomew.

Bartholomew has a high performing grade point average (GPA) as a Medical Science Academy student and aspires to engage to study Neuroscience, Neuropsychology, Alzheimer’s and mental health. She is a two-time Student Council President, holding office last year and this year. “Being a leader in Student Council helps me contribute to the direction, achievement and goals of myself, my school and my community. The thing that I treasure most about my high school career is the opportunity to be a leader. This has not only helped me evolve in my networking and engagement skills, but it has taught me collaboration and influence on a much larger scale than I could imagine at this age.”

Bartholomew is a member of the National Honor Society, Future Business Leaders of America and National English Honors Society. She is a Representative for the Internal Medicine Industry and the Hugh O’Brian Youth (HOBY) Leadership Alumni Vice President. She also received Honorable Mention at the Regional Science Fair.

Bartholomew’s favorite teacher is Dr. John Ramon, her Chemistry and AP Chemistry teacher. “He taught me how to challenge myself and was a constant reminder of pure passion.

Dr. Ramon loves teaching and more importantly leaving an impact on each and every student he encounters. He is

Brazil the reason why I have been so successful in my science fair projects and has also been my advisor all throughout my high school career.”

In addition to her academic commitments, Bartholomew played volleyball, was a member of the band and is an allstar swimmer, 8th in the region, with the swim team.

One value that Bartholomew holds most high in her everyday life is honesty. “In any circumstance or situation, no matter how challenging it is, honesty is a factor that has the power to change the entirety of the outcome. Being an honest person is what I hold as a core value and is a moral that I live by.”

Bartholomew is a unique individual, has an influential and powerful personality. “My approach to situations is what I feel makes me unique. Each and every situation I enter requires much thought and contemplation, and I use this characteristic as a checking point to ensure that my results are benefi-

cial, successful and the best choice. I also feel that my traits of versatility as an athlete and student leader, as well as community volunteer, showcases my willingness to try new things and perfect them.”

When she is not busy at school, Bartholomew devotes her time to volunteering. She participated in a marathon for Childs Rights in You and was selected to learn from medical students at Baylor Saturday Morning Science 1 and 2. “I have had a lot of personal challenges recently; however, my friendships and volunteerism has kept my eyes set on my future successes. I have a very large family with four siblings, and my parents value discipline, dedication and happiness. I feel that the core values instilled in me through my father’s West Indian Heritage has shaped me into the person that I am today and will be in the future.”

Bartholomew is interested in attending Stanford, Rice, University of California Los Angeles or Brown University and will major in Neuroscience and/or Political science. Congratulations Brazil Bartholomew on your strength and fortitude. Good luck as you benefit this world in your future.

“In any circumstance or situation, no matter how challenging it is, honesty is a factor that has the power to change the entirety of the outcome. Being an honest person is what I hold as a core value and is a moral that I live by.” – Brazil Bartholomew 48

DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

NEWSWORTHY

Learn About Intellectual Property Rights Fort Bend County Libraries’ University Branch Library will present a program for entrepreneurs called “Know Your Intellectual Property Rights: How Business Owners Can Protect Their Brands” on Friday, December 14th, beginning at 10:30 am, in Meeting Room 1 of the library, located at 14010 University Blvd in Sugar Land, on the UH campus.

SCORE representative Usha Menon will talk about how entrepreneurs can protect their business names, logos, designs and inventions. She will provide a basic introduction to intellectual property, explaining what it is and how it is protected. Learn about the differences between patents, trademarks, and copyrights. Get tips on simple steps that can be taken to protect product or service names.

Menon is a registered patent attorney in the Sugar Land area. She has more than 13 years of experience in the patent-law field representing individual entrepreneurs, small corporations, large publicly held corporations, and venture capitalists.

The material presented in this program provides a general guide to the U.S. patent and trademark process and laws, and additional resources will be shared for further study. Information discussed via this forum will not create an agent-client/attorney-client relationship, nor is it a substitute for professional advice regarding a specific transaction or the laws of a particular jurisdiction.

This program is presented in partnership with SCORE, the non-profit mentoring arm of the U.S. Small Business Administration. Those attending this program will learn about resources that are available through SCORE and how to draw on the experience of other SCORE members.

The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call the University Branch Library at 281-6335100 or the library system’s Communications Office at 281-633-4734.

DermSurgery Sugar Land Your Skin Care Experts!

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Friday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

For before and after photos, visit Dr. Riahi’s Facebook or Instagram page @ryanriahimd

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Presented by:

Fort Bend Junior Service League and Memorial Hermann Preview Night Thursday, November 1st Stafford Centre

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Proud Media Sponsor

DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

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Submit your request and get the next issue of Fort Bend Focus delivered to your mailbox!

Get your copy - Subscribe Now

Go to www.FortBendFocus.com and request a FREE Subscription.

-OR-

Fort Bend Focus Magazine wants to provide readers with the best community feature magazine possible. We want to focus on our READERS and mail exclusively to residents who invite us into their home. free* to addresses within these zip codes: 77477, 77478, 77479, 77489, 77498.

Name:____________________________________________________ Address:_______________________________________________ City: ________________________________ Zip: _________________ Signature: _________________________________________________ Request Date: _____________________________________________ E-mail: ___________________________________________________

12 issues a year – Delivered Free!

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Mail completed form to: 4655 Techniplex Dr., Ste 700, Stafford, TX 77477 * Annual paid subscription required outside the listed zip code areas. Call 281-690-4242.

DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

MEDICAL FOCUS

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Welcomes Electrophysiologist Apoor Patel, M.D. Board-certified cardiologist and electrophysiologist Apoor Patel, M.D. is joining Houston Methodist DeBakey Cardiology Associates in Sugar Land.

Patel specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of irregular heart rhythms via electrophysiology testing and ablation – a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat or cold to create scarring in heart tissue that stops abnormal electrical signals and restores normal heart function. He also specializes in the WATCHMAN™ procedure, an Apoor Patel, M.D., implantation of pacemaker and defibrillators.

Electrophysiologist Patel comes to Houston Methodist Sugar Land from New York, where he served as director of complex ablations and attending physician in cardiology/electrophysiology for North Shore – Long Island Jewish Hospitals. He also served as assistant professor at Hofstra University School of Medicine.

He earned his medical degree with honors at UCLA Medical School in Los Angeles and completed his residency in internal medicine at Harvard Medical School/Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. He then completed a fellowship in cardiology/electrophysiology at Weill Cornell Medical School/New York Presbyterian Hospital in New York City.

Patel’s office is located on the Houston Methodist Sugar Land campus in Medical Office Building 3 at 16605 Southwest Freeway, Suite 420.

“I am thrilled to be at Houston Methodist Sugar Land and excited about the opportunity to contribute to the thriving cardiology services that the hospital and my new colleagues have created,” Patel said.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Patel, call Houston Methodist DeBakey Cardiology Associates at 281.326.9195.

Visit houstonmethodist.org/sugarland to learn more about Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, and for the latest news, events and information follow Facebook page at fb.com/methodistsugarland.

Dr. G. Byron Janik joins Dr. Stuart Rimes in Sugar Land Town Square!

Dr. Janik has been practicing in Fort Bend County since 1987.

He and Dr. Rimes complement each other in their practices resulting in a win-win for their patients.

Submit newsworthy items Patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Achieve the

Ultimate Smile!

Replacing missing teeth in one day!

281-313-1565 Stuart Rimes, DDS, MS G. Byron Janik, DDS

before

Stuart Rimes, DDS, MS and G. Byron Janik, DDS 15958 City Walk, Ste. 230, Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.RimesDDS.com • e-mail: info@rimesdds.com www.gbyronjanikdds.com

We are now in network with your insurance

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Restore your smile with cosmetic dentistry!

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First Place Flora

“Lotus Blossom with Spider”

By William Maroldo

2018 Photo Contest Winners 54

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ullinan Park Conservancy (CPC) announced its 2018 Photo Contest winners at the Second Annual “Picnic For the Park” fundraising luncheon, presented by Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, on October 19th.

The contest, which ran from July 15th – September 21st, had four categories – Flora, Landscape, Visitors and Wildlife. The contest also featured an age category with submissions accepted for those under age 21 separately to be judged together, and 21 and over, with 110 entries submitted in all. The contest was underwritten by Johnson Development, while community members from Fort Bend sat on the judging committee.

All photos were taken at Cullinan Park.

For the age category of 21 and over, the following entries won first place in their respective categories: Flora, “Lotus Blossom with Spider” by William Maroldo of Sugar Land; Landscape, “Fishing Deck” by Ifran Ali of Sugar Land; Visitors, “Serenity” by John Donaho of Missouri City; and Wildlife, “Mid-day Reflections” by Rosemary Brooks of Houston.

Anika Patel, a 15-year-old from Sugar Land, swept the under 21 categories with her first places for Flora, “Luminous Lotus,” Landscape, “Reflection,” and Wildlife, “Incandescence.” There were no entries for the Visitors category submitted from this age group.

The winners, in addition to the 2nd place winners, each received a ticket to the luncheon and a copy of their winning photo printed on canvas. Johnson Development also received a set of the winning photos to display at various locations on their properties.

Cullinan Park Conservancy hosted the photo contest to highlight the diversity of the natural scenery, including a variety of flora and fauna, at the 754-acre Joseph S. and Lucie H. Cullinan Park in Sugar Land. The Conservancy works to enhance the natural beauty of the Park for all by raising funds for capital improvements.

To see more photo entries or more information on the Park or Conservancy, visit www.cullinanparkconservancy.org, or visit the Conservancy’s Facebook page, email cullinanparkconservancy@gmail.com or call 281-616-7860.

DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

Over 30 Category First Place Visitors “Serenity”

By John Donaho

First Place Landscape “Fishing Deck”

By Ifran Ali

First Place Wildlife

“Mid-day Reflections”

By Rosemary Brooks

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Under 30 Category

2018 Photo Contest Winners

First Place Wildlife

“Incandescence”

By Anika Patel

First Place Landscape “Reflection”

By Anika Patel

First Place Flora

“Luminous Lotus”

By Anika Patel

Cullinan Park Conservancy is located just north of Sugar Land Regional Airport at 12414 Highway 6 South in Sugar Land.

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DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

Presents

The

20

th Anniversary

Platinum Jubilee Honoring

Ann Smith Saturday, January 19, 2019 6 pm Safari Texas Ballroom Richmond, Texas Benefiting arts programming for and continued development of Sugar Land Auditorium.

Entertainment By

Entertainment Sponsor

Title Sponsor

Proud Media Sponsor

For tickets or sponsorship opportunities: Cathy Stubbs Sponsorship Chair 713.582.4486 • info@cathystubbs.com

OUT &

Twenty-Two Fifty Interiors recently hosted their annual Holiday Open House featuring great Christmas gifts, custom florals and trees, home decorations and so much more.

ABOUT IN THE HEART

OF THE BEND Brian Uhlig and Teena Caldwell.

Lauren and Matt Worsham.

Jan Mott and Yolanda Webb.

Virginia Valentine and Martha Hernandez.

The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce held its monthly Network Nites & Bites at the Sawmill Lake Club in Sienna by Johnson Development. Â Those who attended had the opportunity to make new business and community connections while enjoying complementary appetizers and libations.

Deanna Packard, Jill Roe, Nancy Colmenares and Jenn Watson.

Stacy Bynes, Allison Bond and Juliette Nessmith.

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Darrell Mather and Mike Redix.

DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

Lane Pearson and Jessica Kij.

The Fort Bend Women’s Center recently held their annual Hope and Healing in observance of October being Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The guest speaker was film star and long time domestic violence advocate Victor Rivas Rivers. The event focuses on bringing healing and hope to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.

Robin Crowell and Amy Cummins.

Vita Goodell and Liz Morales.

Becky Watts and Chad Bridges.

Jessica Kij and Victor Rivas Rivers.

Wanda Sdao, Doreen Craig and Linda Wilson.

Courtney Diephram and James Patterson.

Sugar Land Health Center recently held their “Doctor with a Heart” event benefitting Free the Captives and Elijah Rising. Patients were given complementary chiropractic consultations, exams and x-rays in exchange for voluntary donations.

Sophie Brazzell, David Gamboa and Steve Harris.

Liz Grillo and Jessica Walulik.

Joyce Walter.

Sophie Brazzell and Faith Prasatik.

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OUT & ABOUT

OakBend Medical Center held a reception to unveil their newly renovated 5th Floor. Â Those attending were treated to great food and libations while taking in the new surroundings. Hospital CEO Joe Freudenberger presented the comments for the event.

IN THE HEART

OF THE BEND

Bob and Pat Hebert.

Tara Johnson, Farah Awan and Crystal Lewis.

Susan Carruth and Anna Marie Webster.

Heather Reichert and Alicen Swift.

Vickie Lynn Tonn and Milton Wright.

Marion Wright and Donna Ferguson.

Kristin Weiss and Joe Freudenberger.

May Tape and Jim McClellan.

Tom and Sandy Chapman.

Jessica Kij and Ivan Mefford.

Jon and Lee Ann Andersen.

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December 2018 Winner “View from St. Charles Bridge Prague, Czech Republic”

By Regina M. Dill Congratulations Regina you’ve earned a gift certificate!

ENTER TO WIN Fort Bend Focus Magazine is looking for great amateur photos.

Any subject matter will be considered, black and white or color, special effects and/or edited are not necessary. The entry must not have previously appeared in any publication.

A WINNER EVERY MONTH Each month’s winner receives a gift certificate and the winning photo will be published in our magazine. To claim your prize, e-mail grace@absolutelyfocusmedia.com or call 281-690-4242.

Please make sure to send some basic information about every photo you submit such as: who, where, when, a title, your name and phone number.

By submitting an entry, the photographer gives 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 Grace@ absolutelyfocusmedia.com. Digital photos must be 300 dpi HIGH RESOLUTION at size of at least 10” wide.

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E vents

December 1st, 11 am – 1 pm Take Selfies with Santa

December 3rd, 6:30 pm – 8 pm Giant Menorah Lighting Celebration

Sweets in the Sky cupcakes and ice cream is hosting a free holiday extravaganza at their shop on 4747 Highway 6, Missouri City (near Star Cinema Grill). Take selfies with Santa, enjoy discounts on sweets and meet and greet special guest author Tonya Duncan Ellis of the Sophie Washington book series! There will be door prizes for the first 20 guests and free face painting for kids. Stop by for this fun family event.

For more information, call 281-969-7098.

Come celebrate Chanukah and the lighting of the giant menorah with Chabad of Sugar Land!

There will be a greeting by dignitaries, arts and crafts for children, Israeli food, performances, music and dancing.

For more information, call Rabbi Mendel Feigenson at 832-758-0685.

December 2nd, 9th and 16th, 1 – 5 pm Free Photos with Santa Sponsored by Imperial Sugar Enjoy a free holiday photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus! Photos will take place in the lobby of 16190 City Walk. Since it is the season of giving, Santa will be collecting new stuffed animals for the Fort Bend Rainbow Room’s Christmas Project.

All donations will go to children and adults referred by caseworkers from Texas Department of Family and Protective services. In order to allow Santa to get back to the North Pole on time, the last photo will be taken at 5 pm.

For more information, visit sugarlandtownsquare.com/events.

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The Heart and Soul ensemble is a female vocal group with fierce passion and talent. This powerful performance group brings heart and soul to the stage in abundance and is happy to bring you a fun-filled holiday performance.

For more information, visit sugarlandtownsquare.com/events.

December 8th, 8:15 am Snowfest Shuffle

December 1st, 5 – 7 pm Holidays in the Plaza Featuring Houston Show Choir Kick off the Christmas season with performances

by Houston Show Choir. This is the perfect opportunity to preview their end-of-season repertoire along with special performances by small groups of singers. Whether you want to sing along to carols or chase away your scrooge-blues, we’ve got a show that will make you smile.

For more information, visit sugarlandtownsquare.com/events.

December 7th, 6:30 – 8:30 pm Holidays in the Plaza Featuring Heart & Soul Ensemble

December 7th, 5:30 – 9 pm Snowfest Festival Pre-festival entertainment will kick off the event at 5:30 pm and will follow with the tree lighting ceremony and fireworks. From 6 – 9 pm, guests are invited to enjoy the array of event activities including the 3-lane snow hill and photos with Santa. To support area families in need this holiday season, the Missouri City Police Department will be onsite to collect unwrapped toys for the annual Blue Santa Toy Drive. All donations can be dropped off by the Christmas tree. The free event will be held at City Hall Complex, located at 1522 Texas Parkway in Missouri City. Event parking is available at Thurgood Marshall High School. Free event shuttles will be running throughout the event.

For more information, call 281-403-8637 or visit mctxparks.com.

DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

Runners of all levels and ages are invited to participate. In lieu of a registration fee, participants are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy for the Missouri City Police Department Blue Santa Toy Drive. Registration is available online at http://apm.activecommunities. com/missouricitytx/Activity_Search/1541 or by calling 281-403-8637. Check-in will be from 7:30 – 8 am at the Rec & Tennis Center, located at 2701 Cypress Point Dr., in Missouri City, and the 1 mile fun run will begin at 8:15 am. The race route will start and end at the Rec & Tennis Center.

Following the race will be a post race party in the Rec parking lot and a watch party for the parade.

For more information, call 281-403-8637 or visit mctxparks.com.

December 8th, 9 am Snowfest Parade Join the 35th annual Snowfest Parade.

The two-mile long procession will feature floats decorated in holiday themes and various organizations on foot. The parade will begin at the Public Safety Headquarters located on the corner of Cartwright Road and Murphy Road in Missouri City.

For more information, call 281-403-8637 or visit mctxparks.com.

E vents December 8th, 11 am – 4 pm Holiday Dance Showcase Enjoy a holiday dance showcase by local dance companies at the plaza.

For more information, visit sugarlandtownsquare.com/events.

December 14th, 6:30 – 8:30 pm Music & Mistletoe Concert Featuring RPC’s Warehouse School of Music Bring your friends and family to the Plaza for an evening of holiday entertainment from River Pointe Church’s (RPC) Warehouse School of Music.

For more information, visit sugarlandtownsquare.com/events.

December 15th, 5 – 7 pm Holiday Music with First Colony Church of Christ First Colony Church of Christ’s band will be warming up Town Square with the sound of its blended contemporary and classic Christmas music as it performs modern and acappella versions of your favorite carols and fun Christmas favorites. Enjoy a great family night out as we rock around the Christmas tree!

For more information, visit sugarlandtownsquare.com/events.

December 8th, 7 pm Sugar Land Christmas Celebration at Sugar Land Baptist Church Enjoy a Fort Bend Holiday favorite – Sugar Land Christmas Celebration presented by the Christmas Choir, the Orchestra at Sugar Land, and Ballet Grace. Reserved Seating tickets are $20. General Admission is free and no ticket is required. Free childcare for children 5 and under by reservation.

For tickets and more information, visit sugarlandbaptist.org/slcc or call the box office at 281-275-6503.

December 8th, 7 pm – 9 pm Holiday Movie Under the Moon It’s a holiday tradition! Bring your family, friends and lawn chairs to the Plaza to enjoy a free Movie Under the Moon, sponsored by First Colony Church of Christ. This month’s movie is holiday favorite Elf, and there just might be a “real” one in attendance passing out candy canes.

For more information, visit sugarlandtownsquare.com/events.

December 13th, 6:30 – 8:30 pm Holidays in the Plaza Featuring Travis High School Orchestra Get into the spirit as the Travis High School Orchestra takes the stage to play your favorite holiday tunes!

For more information, visit sugarlandtownsquare.com/events.

December 2018 Entertainment Lineup

www.smartfinancialcentre.net

Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land, located at 18111 Lexington Boulevard, features a dynamic entertainment roster of high profile performers throughout the month of December An Evening With The Clintons

Tuesday, December 4th • 7:30 pm

December 16th, 6:30 – 11 am 31st Annual Fort Bend Kia 30K

The Price is Right Live

Join the 31st Annual Fort Bend KIA 30K Run! Get the early bird special.

For more information, visit sugarlandtownsquare.com/events.

Peppa Pig Live

Thursday, December 6th • 8 pm

Friday, December 7th • 6 pm

December 21st, 10 am – 4 pm MD Anderson Cancer Center Blood Drive MD Anderson cancer patients require approximately 200 units of red blood cells and 600 units of platelets every day, which is why donors are the most important part of the process!

Giving blood and platelets provides hope for cancer patients who depend on the support of their family and friends and on the generosity of donors just like you. Be a hero – donate blood to their blood bank and save lives.

For more information, visit sugarlandtownsquare.com/events.

December 21st, 6:30 – 8:30 pm Christmas Carol Sing-A-Long Deck the halls and sing along to a jolly holiday performance from The Living Christmas Card Carolers!

For more information, visit sugarlandtownsquare.com/events.

December 25th Merry Christmas!

Martina McBride The Joy of Christmas Tour Saturday, December 8th • 8 pm

Jason Mraz & Toca Rivera “Live in Stereo” With Special Guest Greogory Page Friday, December 14th • 8 pm

The Roadshow Christmas Tour Sunday, December 16th • 6 pm

IL Divo Timeless Tour Thursday, December 20th • 8:30 pm

Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker Saturday, December 29th • 7 pm

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas

By Chip Davis Sunday, December 30th • 7:30 pm

New Year’s Comedy Jam Monday, December 31st • 8 pm

DECEMBER 2018 l

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Living the Sweet Life:

By Alisa Murray www.AlisaMurray.com Nationally recognized portrait artist and award-winning columnist.

A Few Years in Review

H

ow many of you are sitting with your presents wrapped and your hot chocolate in hand wondering like me, how did 2018 fly by so fast? I am sure I am not alone in my feelings, and as each year passes more quickly, I find myself feeling quite old. I typically write down a list of things to accomplish in January, but now I believe we’d all better get a jump start and make that list right now!

For the better part of my life, I have been a driven person, and for those who are close to me, they sometimes get overwhelmed with all of the things I want to accomplish. I remember when I had my first child, a close friend said to me, “Why can’t you just be happy being a mother?” I might have been content if the good Lord had given me a different temperament but having been born with this mind of mine, I can be at times my worst enemy or my best coach depending on the day of the week. In my impatience to “get things done,” I encourage you to hold tight to your dreams and desires because it takes about ten years to accomplish some of the big goals. I hope that you’ll trust me on this, so you can avoid that aggravation yourself. I have been trying for at least that long to figure out a way to diversify my name, my brand and feel more accomplished as a person.

I have dreamed of writing books, being famous, doing stand-up comedy, being a real estate mogul and a luxury brand influencer. I have thoughtfully pondered, “How in the world can I sit on a beach and plan vacations for my clients?”

I have wondered just how long I can continue to be creative in my fine art of expecting mothers, newborn babies, children as they grow and families as they are formed? I think all of

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us likely have similar thoughts. Once in a psychology class, I was taught to dream the elephant, break it down and take tiny steps daily to get accomplish that big goal. For me it feels like swimming in a sea of dreams of high self-imposed expectations, sometimes feeling like the ship has lost its way, while other years feeling like I am taking on everything all at once.

Three years ago, my father-in-law passed and a legacy in real estate literally dropped back into our hands. We came to Texas in 1991 to actually do real estate, and in my true “Alisa” style, I just couldn’t live in the shadow of something already done. I got my real estate license in 1992 and attempted to work in the family business, but it just wasn’t my own. Hence the birth of the photography studio and building from the ground up a brand.

For the better part of 15 years, I was coasting out to sea, and my world was content. After Daddy’s death, however, something began to weigh on my mind. I wondered if I would ever be more, do more or finish strong. I realized I was no spring chicken, and if I was to get more accomplished, I had better get on it. I wondered if I could even get my license again, and if I really wanted to?

I began classes this year and that lead to the juggle of relearning things while continuing to build the studio and make a living. I wasn’t sure how I would accomplish all this, but I had a burning desire. All of the goals I had been working towards suddenly came together all at once – at least it felt that way this year. I opened the travel division in May, got licensed in June as a Realtor and just kept rolling. Seriously, it has been a long journey.

One thing I realize is that accomplishing your dreams never comes fast. It never comes when you want it, and sometimes you don’t even realize it has already come until it has gone. That last one scares me to death, because there’s not enough life given to any of us to waste a second not becoming and working towards whatever it is we dream to be! So now as I prepare for 2019, I am thinking about finally writing that book, challenging myself to do stand-up because I am scared to do it, and I don’t want to leave this earth being scared of anything! I know that it might take a few more years, but if you have a dream and make every day count, eventually you will live that dream. Just don’t give up, and don’t be foolish about recognizing the blessings as they come into your life!

Take Care of YOU!

DECEMBER 2018 l TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 l www.fortbendfocus.com

CODE: SANTAFOCUS