March 2016 - Fort Bend Focus Magazine - People • Places • Happenings by Fort Bend Focus Magazine

MARCH 2016

The Goff’s

Home Sweet Home

HAPPY Birthday TEXAS! Home Is Where the Heart Is

SUMMER Fun Guide

Delivering Happy Birth Days! Our Family Birthing Center Opens February 29.

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United States Pharmacopeia (USP) <795> and <797> are the actual standards that compounding pharmacies are held to. PCAB is endorsed by USP, the American Medical Association (AMA) and more than a dozen other organizations.

PROCESS VALIDATED:

Shannon Maguadog, Pharm.D.

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Frw y

N E

W Wi llia

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POTENCY 103.3% 100.8% 103.4% 101.5% 104.4% 106.2% 103.1% 96.6% 105.4% 106.0% 100.11% 104.0% 95.0% 94.7% 90.8% 106% 102% 102.6% 100.0% 93.3%

9/S

MEASURED 0.517mg/mL 0.504mg/mL 0.517mg/mL 0.508mg/mL 0.522mg/mL 0.531mg/mL 0.516mg/mL 0.483mg/mL 16.87mg/mL 16.9mg/mL 16.02mg/mL 16.6mg/mL 15.2mg/mL 23.675mg/mL 22.7mg/mL 0.133% 102mg/mL 30.8mg/mL 1mg/mL 9.33mcg/mL

REPORTED 0.5mg/mL 0.5mg/mL 0.5mg/mL 0.5mg/mL 0.5mg/mL 0.5mg/mL 0.5mg/mL 0.5mg/mL 16mg/mL 16mg/mL 16mg/mL 16mg/mL 16mg/mL 25mg/mL 25mg/mL 0.125% 100mg/mL 30mg/mL 1mg/mL 10mcg/mL

MEDICATION RESULTS LOT# Thyroid Releasing Hormone (TRH) 03032004@4 Thyroid Releasing Hormone (TRH) 04262004@2 Thyroid Releasing Hormone (TRH) 05082004@9 Thyroid Releasing Hormone (TRH) 10262004@7 Thyroid Releasing Hormone (TRH) 12212004@4 Thyroid Releasing Hormone (TRH) 09302005@19 Thyroid Releasing Hormone (TRH) 09172008@1 Thyroid Releasing Hormone (TRH) 09032015@1 Dexamethasone Acetate 03082004@1 Dexamethasone Acetate 05172004@1 Dexamethasone Acetate 04172007@26 Dexamethasone Acetate 08232012@12 Dexamethasone Acetate 07072014@6 Methylcobalamin 10062005@1 Methylcobalamin 03232006@9 Demecarium Bromide 10152013@31 Glutathione 10282014@28 Tri-Mix 150mg/5mg/50mcg/5mL (Papaverine) 04302015@15 Tri-Mix 150mg/5mg/50mcg/5mL (Phentolamine) 04302015@15 Tri-Mix 150mg/5mg/50mcg/5mL (Alprostadil) 04302015@15

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How do you know it’s REALLY in there? The FDA allows manufacturers a +/- 20% error (There are several narrow therapeutic index exceptions). USP allows compounding pharmacies a +/- 10% error. We’ll let our potency testing speak for itself.

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magazine • March 2016

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F E AT U R E S

COVER STORY MARCH 2016

20 HAPPY BIRTHDAY TEXAS!

Fort Bend County and the Texas Revolution

41 FORT BEND ISD ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR Heritage Rose Elementary School Principal Lavanta Williams shares his roadmap to success.

45 SUMMER FUN GUIDE

As warm weather and freedom from school approaches, start planning with Fort Bend’s best in summer fun.

52 EASTER SERVICES

A Guide to Easter Services and Activities

57 HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS Use these tips and resources to turn your house into your dream home – or to find a new one!

COLUMNS 24 LEGAL FOCUS

Three Medicaid Long-Term Care Programs You Should Know

34 FOCUS ON HEALTH

Susie and Doug Goff with Scooter.

No Grain, No Pain

Photo by Larry Pullen.

36 THE FORT BEND EDUCATION FOUNDATION: A Culture of Excellence

16 THE GOFF’S HOME SWEET HOME

38 HOMETOWN HEROES:

Doug and Susie Goff’s three bedroom, 3,600 square foot home in Imperial Sugar Land sparkles with crisp whites, splashes of color and innovative ideas. Featured in the 2015 CASA Christmas Home Tour, the patio home features a life-sized mural, zebra print carpet and a spectacular outdoor view for the couple, who entertains with the same passion they bring to their philanthropy.

Frank Haines

40 KIDS’ CORNER

Co-Dependency: Affluenza Explained

44 ASK ALEX:

Downton Abbey

54 HIGH SCHOOL HOT SHOT Meet William Moen

80 LIVING THE SWEET LIFE:

March Is National Reading Month

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • March 2016

CONTRIBUTORS

MARCH 2016

VOLUME 12

Trish Johnson Contributor Page 16

NUMBER 5 16

NEWSWORTHY 25 FORT BEND AGGIE MOMS’ CLUB Raises Funds for Student Scholarships

43 BECOME ONE OF TEXAS’ MOST WANTED

At the 2016 Lone Star Stomp

50 CRAWL, CLIMB AND FLY

Amazing Butterflies at the Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land

70 COUNCIL MEMBER HIMESH GANDHI

Files for Re-election to Sugar Land City Council, At-Large Position 1

FORT BEND CARES’

3rd Annual Doggone Fun Run

NEW TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD 42 FEMINA FIT

Promotes Health and Fitness in Sugar Land

Joan Frances Contributor Pages 20, 38 & 54

MEDICAL & BUSINESS 39 STREETLEVEL INVESTMENTS Announces Purchase of Former Texas Instruments Campus

71 MEDICAL FOCUS 24

BRAIN TEASER

Kelley M. Bentley Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey PC Page 24 Dr. Peter Osborne Origins Healthcare Centers Page 34

50 IT’S SPRINGTIME!

34 Zeenat Kassam Mitha Cultural Correspondent Page 36

absolutely! AUTO REVIEW 36

56 2016 TOYOTA TACOMA

Patrick Biron Birons Youth Sports Center Page 40

absolutely! DELICIOUS

40 Alex Belt Silly Silly Girls Page 44

75 THE ARTIST’S PALATE Russo’s New York Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen

77 VINESLEUTH

Myles Mellor Contributor Page 50

Girl Scout Cookies and Wine: Two of My Favorite Things!

IN EVERY ISSUE 10 EXCLAMATION POINTS!

Steve Kursar Auto Enthusiast Page 56

26 SEEN ON THE SCENE 72 OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART OF THE BEND

Alisa Murray Alisa Murray Photography Pages 75 & 80

76 AMATEUR PHOTO CONTEST ON THE COVER:

Amy Gross wine4.me Page 77

78 COMMUNITY EVENTS 77

Susie and Doug Goff. Photo by Larry Pullen.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

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EXCLAMATION POINTS! THE INSIDE SCOOP STRAIGHT FROM THE TOP Publisher, PATTI PARISH-KAMINSKI

Vol. 12 No. 5 March 2016 4655 TECHNIPLEX DR. STE 700 STAFFORD, TX 77477 281-690-4242

Spring Has Sprung?

WWW.FORTBENDFOCUS.COM

It’s spring in Texas and that means three things: bluebonnets, unpredictable weather and of course, Texas Independence Day. This year marks 180 years since Texas won its independence from Mexico, and our rich heritage as Texans is still alive and well today. The Fort Bend County Museum Association’s mission is to preserve our history here in the Bend, and they do an amazing job of educating young Texans about where they came from and what their ancestors accomplished to make our great state what it is. In this issue, we collaborated with the Museum Association to bring you Fort Kolton and Patti Kaminski. Bend’s role in our independence. I guess there’s nothing left to say but “Happy Birthday Texas!” Celebrating milestones is something we love to share, and we have yet another amazing milestone to share with you in this issue. For their first Christmas in their new home, Doug and Susie Goff celebrated by opening up their new abode as a stop on the 2015 CASA Christmas Home Tour. And let’s just say the results were dazzling! Decorated by Susie in her unique glitz and glam style, the new Imperial Sugar Land home is both sweet and sparkling. Take a tour of Casa Goff on page 16. Speaking of home tours, our Home Is Where the Heart Is feature has something for all homeowners. Whether it’s organizational tips, relocating to a new area or finding the perfect Realtor, we’ve got you covered. Traveling through Texas in the spring is something that our family has enjoyed for years. I will say, however, that traveling through our state this time of year is an interactive sport. You never really know whether to pack swimsuits or sweats. Someone once said to me about Texas in the spring, “Let’s enjoy the gorgeous summer weather before it somehow tries to murder us.” Of course, the other wellknown quote about Texas weather also sums it up: “If you don’t like the weather in Texas, wait 5 minutes, and it will change.” Enjoy the beautiful – if unpredictable – Texas spring, and we wish you and your family a happy and blessed Easter.

PUBLISHER Patti Parish-Kaminski A S S O C IAT E P U B L I S H E R Jessica Kij M A NA G I N G E D I T O R Sarah Bearden AC C O U N T E X E C U T I V E S Jennifer Elliott Molly Ellis Kay Garrett Andrea Rigamonti Suzanne Stiles A RT D I R E C T O R Grace Belleza GRAPHIC DESIGNER Marinela Taylor WEB DESIGNER Joey Belleza PHOTOGRAPHY Larry Pullen CONTRIBUTORS Alex Belt Kelley M. Bentley Patrick Biron Joan Frances Amy Gross Trish Johnson Steve Kursar Myles Mellor Zeenat Kassam Mitha Alisa Murray Dr. Peter Osborne O F F I C E A D M I N I S T R AT O R Alexa Goldstein INQUIRIES 281-690-4242

Stay focused,

E D I T O R IA L S U B M I S S I O N S Sarah@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Published by

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

www.FortBendFocus.com Facebook.com/FortBendFocus TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • March 2016

Fort Bend FocusTM Magazine is published by absolutely! focus media, 4655 Techniplex Dr., Ste. 700, Stafford, TX 77477. Copyright© 2016 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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HOW DO I FIND THE PERFECT HOME? V I S I T W W W. E X P E R I E N C E F O R T B E N D. C O M

5522 LINDEN GROVE CT 200’s RIVERPARK 87989051 2,852 SQFT

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6006 PECOS VALLEY DR 200’s CANYON GATE 49637128 2,471 SQFT

714 TEXAS STAR DR 499K DEL WEBB 42186744 2,567 SQFT

1122 AQUA VISTA LN 200’s BONBROOK PLANTATION 25644608 2,806 SQFT

123 FM 359 RD 699k WM MORTON 44522882 4,472 SQFT

281.265.0000

W W W. E X P E R I E N C E F O RT B E N D. C O M 7726 ELDERGROVE LN 100’s TWIN OAKS VILLAGE 33401465 1,707 SQFT

21527 HAWKSPUR RIDGE 200’s LONG MEADOW FARMS 51675088 2,024 SQFT

1650 HIGHWAY 6, STE 350 SUGAR LAND, TX 77478

“We Cook, You Dine” Yes, the Chef Does Come with the Kitchen!

Buy a qualifying Thermador® appliance package and a Thermador® chef will cook a 3-course gourmet meal in your new kitchen.*

Please join us for a chef open house featuring: • Live cooking demonstration • Chef prepared appetizers • Q & A with a representative from Thermador®

When: 11 am - 3 pm, Saturday, March 26th Where: SARA Appliance & Electronics

16820 Southwest Fwy., Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.277.1522 • www.saraae.com Monday - Saturday 10 am - 7 pm & Sunday 12 pm - 5 pm *See store associates for details and qualifying products.

Friends of Old Sugar Land

! s r a e Y s e t Celebra 25 Friends of Old Sugar Land was established in 1991 for residents of The Hill, Sugar Land’s first community. Homes in The Hill date back to 1905 and were built by Imperial Sugar for their workers. Over the past 25 years, Friends of Old Sugar Land has many accomplishments.

Here are the Top 25: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

1991-2011: Dispersed Neighborhood Newsletters to all residents Collected recipes and published Neighborhood Cookbook dedicated to Mayor Lee Duggan 1995 and 1996: Held Neighborhood Day and worked on senior citizens’ homes in The Hill 1995: Coordinated with the City of Sugar Land Lonnie Green Park improvements 1997: Held “A Day for Brandon” raising $23,000 for a neighborhood boy with brain cancer Coordinated with the City of Sugar Land for installation of lamp posts in The Hill 1998: Built booths for Lakeview Auditorium “Mayfest“ fundraiser 2000: Partnered with Fort Bend Corp and Keep Sugar Land Beautiful to work on seniors’ homes Organized a Union Pacific meeting with Old Sugar Land Homeowners Alliance for quiet zones Participated in Sugar Land Crime Watch, registered homeowners’ electronics 1991: Displayed Neighborhood Yellow Ribbons for neighborhood soldier returning home Raised funds and installed “Welcome to The Hill” neighborhood entrance signs Recorded interviews with Old Sugar Landers, including T. C. Rozelle

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

Wrote and worked with Chuck Kelly and CAST Theatrical for Refined Sugar play based on senior citizens’ stories of Old Sugar Land for Lakeview Auditorium’s Historic Tour Organized meals and six months utilities for a family of eight in need in The Hill Christmas Caroling and delivering goodies to senior citizen residents in The Hill Established Block Captains and participated in National Night Out Addressed city issues and concerns as members of Old Sugar Land Homeowners Alliance Planned and held “A Night of Sweetness” for Imperial Sugar workers when Imperial Sugar closed Established Friends of Old Sugar Land Facebook page for communication, safety awareness and to share history and photos of Sugar Land Planned “Chillin and Grillin” with committee of Hill residents, including Jaime and the late Teresa Crespo, owners of Teresita’s. It was a wonderful neighborhood social gathering! Published a 2nd Edition cookbook in memory of Annette Wise, Main Street bridge artist Assisted with Lakeview Auditorium’s Historic Tours fundraiser Established “Holidays in The Hill” Christmas Decorating Contest in 2004, which continues to date. Attended meetings and provided input regarding Imperial Redevelopment

Kristin Lytle, Founder and A Friend of Old Sugar Land

Kristin Lytle, Broker Associate

4665 Sweetwater Blvd., Suite 105 • Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-414-3059 • kristinlytle@aol.com

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • March 2016

easter EXPE R I E N C E

CELEBRATE EASTER WITH US! No one expected a miracle that first Easter Sunday, but that day changed the world forever. Come celebrate Jesus with us at one of 10 Easter weekend services. At Sugar Creek Baptist Church, you’ll experience inspiring music, an engaging message from the Bible and a welcoming atmosphere. Discover the life-changing message of Easter and how it can make a difference in your family!

SUGAR LAND CAMPUS

Good Friday | March 25 at 7 PM Easter | March 26 at 5 PM, March 27 at 8, 9:30 and 11 AM

EN ESPAÑOL

Viernes Santo | El 25 de Marzo a los 7:30 PM | Gimnasio 2 Domingo de Resurrección | El 27 de Marzo a las 12:35 PM | Auditorio Principal

SIENNA CAMPUS

Good Friday | March 25 at 7 PM | Ridge Point HS Easter | March 27 at 9:30 and 11 AM | Ridge Point HS

Call | 281.242.2858

2 LOCATIONS SUGAR LAND CAMPUS

13223 Southwest Fwy., Sugar Land

SIENNA CAMPUS

Ridge Point HS Auditorium 500 Waters Lake Blvd., Missouri City

Click | sugarcreek.net

COVER STORY

By Trish Johnson

May Your Holidays Sparkle!

The Goff’s new home was featured in the 2015 CASA Christmas Holiday Tour benefitting legal advocacy for a children, a cause dear to both Doug and Susie. Photo by Larry Pullen.

The Goff ’s

Home Sweet Home

n Doug and Susie Goff’s lives, everything from philanthropy to the design and décor of their new home in Imperial Sugar Land must be glamorous, glitzy and over-the-top. “Glitzy, that’s me! The grandkids even call me ‘Glitzy,’ as in ‘Glitzy Grandma,’ ” laughed Susie Goff during a recent tour of her home. “I would describe my personal style as pretty eclectic, whimsical, eccentric.” Never one-dimensional, the Goff’s three bedroom, 3,600 square foot home sparkles with crisp whites, floor to ceiling. “No brown came into this house,” Goff said. “Not even tan, beige or any other color brown. We wanted it very open and with lots of light. Plus, I can change at a whim.” From zebra print carpet to wine corks on the ceiling, Goff and her husband, Doug, reside in a home filled with innovative ideas and splashes of color. The aqua water of the swimming pool, seen through luxuriously wide doors opening to an outside living and entertainment area, is echoed in stylishly boxy chairs in the living room and sitting area. TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

“Without hesitation, Doug says the big doors opening to the patio are his favorite feature in the house,” shared Goff. “For me, it’s the openness of the house. It’s fine for the two of us, but we can entertain here. We’ve had 300 people here at one time. And when we open those doors, we have another 2,000 square feet of living and entertaining area outside.”

Now grandparents with four grandchildren, Susie, or “Glitzy,” as the grandchildren call her, designed a room where the kids can play and visit. Photo by Steve Chenn.

.com • March 2016

The spectacular view from the patio includes the 1925 Imperial Sugar Char House and Constellation Field, where the Sugar Land Skeeters play. “We have chairs on the patio placed so we can see the fireworks from Constellation Field when the Skeeters play.” The aqua color continues in the bedroom designed for the Goff’s four grandchildren, as well as the walls of the guest room, which features the aforementioned zebra print underfoot. “I did 90% of it myself,” Goff said of the home’s décor. “After consulting with a couple of designers, I didn’t think anyone was as whimsical or glitzy as me. “We were really hands-on building the house,” she continued. “We only lived about five minutes away, so we were here almost every day. We had so much fun building it.” A huge master bedroom closet is a result of the couple’s experience living in what Goff calls “Doug’s bachelor pad” after the couple married eight years ago. “We couldn’t find half of our clothes,” she laughed. “They wouldn’t fit in the closet and so we had them stuck everywhere. I didn’t know where our clothes were. I had clothes I didn’t remember until we moved here and unpacked. We told our builder, ‘Make the closet pretty big, then add a few more feet, and make it bigger.’ ” Accentuating the ceiling of the bar next to the chef’s kitchen – Doug is the chef in the family – are a multitude of wine bottle corks collected by the couple. “We asked for wine bottle corks at every restaurant we went to,” Goff said, laughing. “We even bugged our friends to help us collect corks. We had them placed on the ceiling by Congressman Pete Olson’s 15-year-old son, Grant, who is 6’10” tall. He has a talent for cork,” Goff slyly added. There are over 25,000 corks adorning the ceiling. Perhaps the centerpiece of the house is the dining room, where a lifesized mural of the Goffs, their friends, their dog, a poodle-mix named Scooter, and their dog’s best friend overlooks an area large enough for two dining tables. “We were in a restaurant called Rocco’s in Austin,” Goff recalled, “and they had a mural on one wall of people just having fun. We both looked at it

The Goff’s expansive covered patio overlooks not only a beautiful, custom built pool but the Imperial Sugar Char House and Constellation Field. Photo by Larry Pullen.

The closet, fit for a king and queen, features regal purple lacquer drawers and walls and crystal chandeliers. Photo by Steve Chenn.

fort bend

magazine • March 2016

The Goff’s hired artist His Highness Duke Michael Peschke after seeing his work in an Austin restaurant to create a custom mural in their dining room featuring themselves and friends.

Committed to Community

Photo by Larry Pullen.

and said, ‘We have to have a mural like it.’ We tracked down the artist, who turned out to be from Austin but was now living in California.” According to Goff, the couple sent photos of everyone to the self-styled His Highness Duke Michael Peschke, who according to Goff is “quite the character.” He turned the photos into a gloriously fun mural on the dining room wall. “We were so happy with the result, we had a grand unveiling,” Goff chuckled. “No one knew what it looked like, no one had seen it, and we had everyone wear the clothes they are wearing on the mural. We had the best time.” The patio home was featured in 2015’s CASA Christmas Home Tour, an event benefitting the national Court Appointed Special Advocate Association (CASA), an organization dear to the hearts of both the Goffs. “They provide children with a voice,” Goff explained. “We are big supporters. They asked us last March, about the time we moved in, if we would be interested in putting the house on the tour. I told them we would be honored.” Among other organizations benefitting from the Goff’s considerable largesse – in both funds and time – are The Children’s Museum, Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation and Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital. “Our home is a joint effort by Doug and I,” said Goff. “We waited two years while the house was in the planning stage, but we never considered living anywhere but Fort Bend County and Imperial Sugar Land. It was never even up for discussion. Fort Bend County is where Doug lived, and he said this just looks like us.” TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

he commitment to Fort Bend County by W. Douglas “Doug” Goff and his wife, Susie, goes back more than 20 years to when Doug, serving as General Manager of Sienna Plantation, turned the 7,000 acre master-planned community in Fort Bend County into one of the top-selling communities in the United States. Even earlier, Doug – as General Manager of Markborough Development – was instrumental in the turnaround of New Territory, a 3,500 acre community also in Fort Bend County. Now, as Chief Operating Office of The Johnson Development Corp., Doug oversees the company’s portfolio of communities. Doug’s wife, Susie, retired from an award-winning marketing career at The Johnson Development Corp., now spends her time on the couple’s philanthropic efforts as well as their family, which includes three sons from previous marriages, two daughters-in-law and four grandchildren. A closeted decorator at heart, Susie’s holiday decorating efforts in the couple’s new Imperial Sugar Land home are mainly responsible for the home’s inclusion in the 2015 CASA Christmas Holiday Tour benefitting legal advocacy for children. “I decorate for all of the holidays,” Susie admitted. “My favorite holiday is the one that’s next.” Built by Partners in Building in 2015 in Imperial Sugar Land, the Goff home serves as home base for a couple who entertain with the same passion they bring to their philanthropy. “We love it here,” Susie said, explaining their decision to stay in Sugar Land and Fort Bend County. “There was never any question about where we wanted to live. Sugar Land is our home.” .com • March 2016

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16811 Southwest Frwy. Sugar Land, TX 77479

Happy Birthday Texas! Fort Bend County and the Texas Revolution

Ready, aim, fire! In this reenactment at the George Ranch Historical Park, the Texians banded together to protect their homesteads from the advancing Mexican army.

ort Bend County history is interesting, engaging and authentic. Our local history is entwined with the historic events of our great state, including perhaps the most important date in Texas history: March 2nd. On March 2, 1836, Texas won freedom from Mexico and became a sovereign nation called the Republic of Texas. Texas Independence Day celebrates the adoption of the Texas Declaration of Independence each year on March 2nd, and in Fort Bend, there is an organization devoted to preserving and celebrating our Texas heritage. The Texians defended their land and home from the advancing soldados, or soldiers.

The Fort Bend County Museum Association in Richmond is devoted to the community guaranteeing all historical records are accurate, available to the public and well-documented. The organization operates a local history museum and six historic structures in Richmond, an avocational archeological society, a downtown historic district and programs at the 480-acre George Ranch Historical Park. Chris Godbold, Chief Curator of the Museum, is a walking book of knowledge when the subject of Texas Independence is addressed. “Fort Bend County was part of the foundations of Texas independence because some of the first of Austin’s colonists settled here. They were United States citizens looking for a new start, who didn’t really want the Spanish or later the Mexican government to tightly control their affairs. More specifically, what would become Fort Bend County sent several men to the Texas Army, among them John and Paschal Borden, George W. Pleasants and Wyly Martin. Local men, such as Eli Fenn, served to guard the ferry landings on the Brazos.” These brave men helped make not only Texas – but Fort Bend County – what it is today.

By Joan Frances Photo courtesy of the Fort Bend County Museum Association. TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • March 2016

Image from The Texans.

This watercolor on ivory of Sam Houston was painted in the 1840s and is attributed to George Catlin.

The Texas Revolution is perhaps one the most thrilling stories of unprecedented victory for Texas liberty. Strategic, methodical and risky, the battle at San Jacinto was the turning point for Texians. Sam Houston, Commander-in-Chief of the Texas Army, and his troop of 910 pioneers fought the battle that lasted less than 20 minutes against Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, president and dictator of Mexico. Six years before this historical conquest, the Mexican government declared an

edict on April 6, 1830 prohibiting further immigration of Anglo Americans from the United States to Texas. After the tragic defeat in March of 1836 in San Antonio when the Alamo had fallen and its 183 brave defenders were massacred, an exodus of frantic colonists known as the “Runaway Scrape” transpired. Packing what belongings they could take in wagons and carts, on horseback or on their own backs, these people fled their homes in terror across the rain soaked country all moving eastward to Fort Bend, then to Louisiana to escape the wrath of the bloodthirsty Santa Anna. A log fort built at the bend in the Brazos River became the nucleus of the settlement, which came to be known as Fort Bend or “Fort Settlement.” The Brazos River and other local tributaries played an integral role in the outcome of the war. Santa Anna’s main army marched south along the Brazos, resting three days at the Hunter Plantation, just north of Fort Settlement. Sam Houston used the steamboat Yellowstone to ferry his army across the swollen Brazos, then traveled to the

Upcoming Events March 12th – June 25th Lost, Saved & Threatened: Historic Architecture of Fort Bend County A Special Exhibit at the Fort Bend Museum

March 12th, 15th, 16th – 19th

Spring Is Sprung George Ranch Historical Park Enjoy spring in all its glory at a rollicking spring break celebration. Learn about the chores, tasks and fun that accompanied this busy season on the ranch. A special spring break barbecue will also be held all week long! For reservations, call 281-343-0218.

Saturday, March 26th

Image from The Texans.

An Old-Fashioned Easter George Ranch Historical Park Start your Easter fun at the 1830s Jones Stock Farm with a rousing game of egg pocking, followed by dyeing Easter eggs at the 1860s Ryon Prairie Home and making cards at the 1890s Davis Victoria Mansion. Easter egg hunts will be held at 11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm with a children’s bonnet contest 30 minutes after each hunt. A special Easter lunch will be held at the 1860s Ryon Prairie Home at 12:30 pm. For reservations, call 281-343-0218.

Saturday, April 9th

Runaway Scrape George Ranch Historical Park Henry Arthur McArdle’s 1895 painting Battle of San Jacinto depicts a detailed panorama of the battle.

fort bend

magazine • March 2016

At this exciting recreation of the Runaway Scrape, the fleeing of the Texians from Santa Anna’s army, learn about this event’s impact through several generations of one Texas family. At 10:30 am and 2:30 pm, visit the 1830s Jones Stock Farm and see the Texians in action as they struggle to retreat from an invading Mexican Army. An 1830s historic lunch will be held at 12:30 at the Jones Stock Farm. For reservations, call 281-343-0218.

Photo by Roy Kasmir.

“Texians were already used to governing themselves and managing their own affairs. A fledgling Texas government was already formed by the rebelling Texians. Some changes were made as the Republic of Texas was formed, but many things continued just as they had since the first colonists arrived along the Brazos.” – Chris Godbold

Soldados checked for valuables on a Texian casualty following a skirmish during the war for Texas independence.

county with a new city, Richmond, as its county seat. The men who fought in the Texas Revolution will never be forgotten thanks to the efforts of Chris Godbold and the devoted benefactors of the Fort Bend County Museum Association. Throughout the year, lecture series are scheduled to inform the public of historical events that shaped our government, as well as special events celebrating our heritage. For a complete listing of events and activities, visit fortbendmuseum.org. Photo by Roy Kasmir.

open fields of San Jacinto. When Santa Anna traveled 60 miles south to San Jacinto, they were seen crossing Vince’s Bridge over Vince’s Bayou. John Coker, a private in Sam Houston’s calvary, suggested to General Houston that the destruction of the bridge would distract the Mexican Army. Erastus “Deaf” Smith, the chief scout against the Mexicans, was selected to take a few cavalrymen, evade the enemy and to cross and destroy the bridge. The burning of Vince’s Bridge assured no chance of retreat for the Mexican Army. On April 21st, Sam Houston’s army of only 800 men killed and captured the Mexican troops of 1,200 men by surprise at San Jacinto. Santa Anna, attempting to escape, soon came to the burning bridge and was captured. The news of this defeat and victory guaranteed independence from Mexican control and enabled Texas to become an independent republic.

Life in Fort Bend County likely did not change much after Texas gained its independence. “Texians were already used to governing themselves and managing their own affairs,” said Godbold. “A fledgling Texas government was already formed by the rebelling Texians. Some changes were made as the Republic of Texas was formed, but many things continued just as they had since the first colonists arrived along the Brazos. Celebrations of their hard fought independence ensued, but many Fort Bend residents were soon preoccupied with rebuilding their homes, farms and ranches after returning from the Runaway Scrape. Work on the farm or ranch was the same. It didn’t matter whether the flag that flew over it was Mexican or Texan.” Texas independence did bring with it development of Fort Bend County with promoters competing to form the next boom town. Robert Eden Handy and William Lusk began advertising their city of Richmond in 1837. It was incorporated by the Congress of the Republic in May of that year on the same act that incorporated Houston and Nacogdoches. To this point, Fort Bend had been split between Austin and Harrisburg County with the border being the Brazos River. However, enough people had settled in the area that the Congress Republic created Fort Bend County in December of 1837. After a year and a half of independence, the people of Fort Bend had their own

The Texian colonists prepared their weapons for battle.

Soldados advanced on the Texian farm in this battle reenactment. TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • March 2016

IR LFA E OT T N OO S ING M CO

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By Kelley M. Bentley

Legal

Focus

Three Medicaid Long-Term Care Programs You Should Know

edicaid is a health insurance program for the elderly, disabled or indigent. Since Medicare benefits do not provide adequate long-term care either in a nursing home or at the patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home, families often turn to the Medicaid program to pay for such care. Here are three long-term care Medicaid programs available in Texas: Nursing Home Medicaid: Nursing home Medicaid covers the cost of institutionalization in a skilled nursing facility or intermediate care facility-intellectual disability. Nursing home Medicaid does not cover the cost of assisted living or independent living. In order to qualify, an individual must have a medical need for licensed nursing care. In order to be eligible for nursing home Medicaid, an individual can have no more than $2,000 in countable resources and less than $2,199 of monthly income in 2016. A married couple who both need nursing home care can have no more than $3,000 in countable resources and no more than $4,398 of monthly income. If only one spouse needs nursing home care, the couple can protect a minimum of $23,844 and a maximum of $119,220. This amount may be increased, beyond the maximum, under the spousal impoverishment rules. STAR+PLUS Waiver Program: The STAR+PLUS Waiver Program helps with assisted living costs, as well as provides home-based care as an alternative to institutionalization. This program targets individuals age 21 and older who have a medical need for nursing home care but who elect home and community-based services, including assisted living, as a cost-effective alternative to institutionalization. The

STAR+PLUS Waiver Program uses the same resource (asset) limit and income cap as the nursing home Medicaid program. However, unlike the nursing home Medicaid program, the STAR+PLUS Waiver Program has limited funding, restricted enrollment and a waiting list. Medicare Savings Programs: The Texas Medicaid Program offers several Medicare Savings Plans, which provide supplemental coverage to eligible Medicare beneficiaries. These programs include the Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries (QMB) program and the Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiaries (SLMB) program. The QMB program pays the out-of-pocket Medicare cost-sharing expenses, including deductibles and co-payments. The SLMB program pays the Medicaid Part B premium. In order to be eligible for the either the QMB or SLMB programs an individual can have no more than $7,280 in resources. For QMB, an individual can have no more than $981 per month in income. For SLMB, an individual can have no more than $1,177 per month in income. Even though the Medicaid long-term care programs are means-tested benefits, an individual does not have to be indigent to qualify. A qualified elder law attorney can assist with eligibility, including the preservation of assets for the Medicaid recipient and his or her family.

Kelley M. Bentley is a certified elder law attorney by the National Elder Law Foundation and practices estate planning, probate, trust and elder law at Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey PC from its Fort Bend office.

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S E E N on the Scene

Taste of Fort Bend Benefiting Lunches of Love

Noell & Monica Myska

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S E E N on the Scene

2016 Lincoln-Reagan Dinner Benefiting The Republican Party

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S E E N on the Scene

The Founders’ Ball Benefiting The Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation

Daryl Epperson & Elissa Wedemeyer

Jeff & Tracee Tallas

Tony Clark with Stacy & Keith Borgfeldt

Lane & Beth Wolf

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S E E N on the Scene

The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 2016 Chairman’s Gala

Debbie & Bruce Mercer

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Winston & Tammy Labbe with Jennifer Goodall & Jonathon Ebizie

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FOCUS ON HEALTH By Dr. Peter Osborne

No Grain, No Pain

he following is an excerpt from Dr. Osborne’s new book, No Grain, No Pain.

Maybe you’ve been told that your pain is “all in your head.” Perhaps you’ve tried a variety of different therapies and prescription drugs without success. You’re tired, you’re hurting, and you’re fed up. It happens to countless Americans every year: patients go to doctors’ offices seeking relief and leave with a handful of prescriptions. Those medications work for a time, then stop – or they may never work at all. Millions of people risk becoming dependent on painkillers, never realizing that the very drugs they are taking to fight pain are actually interfering with their body’s own natural healing process, making them feel sicker and more depleted every day. What if there was a better option to combat pain? What if it didn’t involve drugs at all, but rather a way of healing your discomfort and pain from the inside out? This alternative approach is known as functional medicine, and it’s a methodology that’s gaining more adherents among both doctors and patients alike. Functional medicine focuses on identifying the root causes of disease rather than treating the symptoms, in order to implement meaningful prevention and treatment methods. This approach encourages a true partnership between patient and doctor. The goal is not just to return the patient to health, but also to teach him or her how to remain healthy and prevent disease, and in the process become less dependent on the doctor. It’s obvious that change is needed. Americans spend billions of dollars a year

on medical treatments and medications. Why, then, do we remain among the world’s sickest people? Some of it is due to the fact that most doctors spend very little time with patients. Medical schools don’t train physicians how to ascertain the origin of disease; instead, they are taught to eliminate symptoms with drugs that manipulate the body’s chemistry. I’m not saying that this kind of medicine (and doctors who practice it) isn’t well intentioned. But I do think there’s a different, better way. Each person has a unique set of genetics and biochemistry, and an equally unique set of environmental and lifestyle factors, all of which interact with one another. In my book No Grain, No Pain, I convey the principles of health from a functional medicine viewpoint. Instead of relying on synthetic drugs, functional medicine seeks to understand a patient’s overall medical history, lifestyle and environmental factors using specialized lab tests, as well as a comprehensive physical evaluation. In part 1, I simplify the science of why grain causes pain. We discuss how inflammation is at the root of all pain. You’ll learn how to escape what I call the “cycle of pain” and avoid “gluten-free whiplash.” You’ll also come to understand the link between your brain and your gut, as well as the role that grain plays in obesity and other metabolic diseases. Then, in part 2, we’ll move on to the actual 30 day program, which will help you rid your diet of grain and other problematic foods and make other lifestyle changes, so you, too, can start feeling better and living pain free. Read on! Get your copy today at www.NoGrainNoPainBook.com.

DID YOU KNOW?

You have one of the country’s most advanced alternative medicine clinics right here in Sugar Land n Dr. Osborne

• Is the only Board Certified Nutritionist in Sugar Land • Is a member of the ACA Council on Nutrition • Is a Doctor of Pastoral Medicine • Has held teaching appointments at Texas Women’s University and HCC’s nursing program • Lectures nationally to other physicians on the topic: drug induced nutritional deficiencies

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• Offers genetic testing to match your lifestyle and diet to your genes • Offers complete laboratory nutritional analysis to identify vitamin and mineral deficiencies • Offers traditional and specialty lab services to assist in patient diagnosis • Offers state of the art Spinal Decompression therapy to prevent back surgery • Offers genetic and laboratory testing to identify gluten sensitivity

7616 Bradford Place #110, Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-240-2229 • www.DrPeterOsborne.com TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • March 2016

NEWSWORTHY

Fort Bend Aggie Moms’ Club Raises Funds for Student Scholarships

Fort Bend’s Custom Jeweler

It’s time to put a ring on it!

Carol Gaas, Jayne Nemec, Sally Berlocher and Lynne Clark.

The Fort Bend Aggie Moms’ Club is conducting their Fifth Annual Raffle, which raises funds to provide scholarships to deserving Fort Bend students attending Texas A&M University, College Station or Galveston campuses and Texas A&M-Blinn TEAM students. This year’s first place prize is a 2016 Toyota Corolla provided by Fort Bend Toyota. Second place prize is one week of timeshare time at a resort destination valued at $2,100 donated by Tony and Eileen Scarmado. Destinations are subject to availability and include Lake Tahoe, Nevada, Chandler, Arizona, Branson or Otter Rock, Oregon. Third place prize is a round of golf for four at Golf Club of Houston valued at $700, which includes green fees and range balls. A cart rental is $20 per person, and the prize is valid Monday through Thursday only. Fourth place prize is a beauty themed gift basket valued at $700 donated by Grant’s Hair Fashions. Fifth place prize is a Houstonian Trellis Spa package valued at $500. Winners need not be present to win, and the drawing will be held on April 9th at the Texas A&M campus during Parents’ Weekend. For more information regarding scholarships provided by the Fort Bend Aggie Moms’ Club, visit fortbendmoms.aggienetwork.com. For more details on the raffle and to purchase a ticket, call Jayne Nemec at 713-306-9451 or Carol Gaas at 832-746-7739.

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By Zeenat Kassam Mitha

The Fort Bend Education Foundation:

A Culture of Excellence A

big part of excellence in education comes from the support of a devoted community and the culture created to sustain it. The Fort Bend Education Foundation (FBEF) does just that as it enriches and enhances the quality of education for all students in Fort Bend Independent School District (FBISD) through its grants to teachers and schools programs. “In 2014-2015, the foundation awarded $388,000 to Fort Bend ISD teachers and schools,” said Brenna Cosby, executive director of the FBEF. The FBEF was established in 1992 and is governed by a volunteer board of directors made up of community leaders, local businesses and trade. The foundation is endorsed by FBISD leaders, including Superintendent Dr. Charles Dupre. It also hosts events such as the Education Expedition Bike Ride, Sugar Shindig, Back to School Scramble and an annual gala to connect with the community. These events raise funds from generous local businesses and individuals and are channeled with expert precision directly to classrooms, where students are teamed with educators to achieve optimum levels of educational possibilities. Since its inception, the foundation has awarded over $32 million in grants to FBISD teachers and schools. “Through these grants, the FBEF has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to academic excellence and a dedication to resource development for the continued funding of them,” said Frank Petras, president of the FBEF’s board of directors. “We are so grateful to our business and individual community partners and our volunteers and recognize our leading donors for the last five years, which are Fluor, The George Foundation, Schlumberger and USA Fit, for their amazing support,” stated Crosby. “The Fort Bend Education Foundation is blessed to have over 600 people who make up a multicultural and diverse volunteer base to make this foundation a success.” To learn more or support the FBEF, visit www.fortbendisd. com/foundation or e-mail FBEF@fortbendisd.com.

TO SHARE YOUR IDEAS

for upcoming cultural stories and events, contact Cultural Correspondent Zeenat Kassam Mitha at zeenat@absolutelyfocusmedia.com TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

The garden grant at Quail Valley Elementary serves as a yearlong science lab for teachers and students such as Carson Null, Gabriella Linares, Tawanna Cheri and Josalyn Regino and encourages student interest in fresh vegetables, providing lifelong good eating habits.

The following are the distribution of funds raised by the FBEF: Grants for Teachers Programs: Support innovative classroom projects proposed by teachers for which conventional funding is not available. Awards range from $500 to $1,500. Founders Grants Program: Allows funding of larger needs up to $20,000 that are outside of the funding limits of Teacher and School Site Grants. School Site Programs: Offer a maximum of three grants per campus ranging from $2,000 at the elementary level to $3,000 at the secondary level for campus-wide educational improvement opportunities. New Teacher Gifts: For teachers who are just beginning their teaching career with zero years of teaching experience, the foundation also provides a gift certificate to a local teachers’ supply store to help them set up their classrooms. Professional Development Grants: The foundation liaisons with FBISD’s Organizational Development department to fund nationally recognized speakers in a broad range of educational fields on staff development days. Urgent Need Grants: Give the administrators and department heads an additional source of funding for equipment and materials of immediate need for which other funding sources are not available. Tribute Fund: Allows individuals to make contributions that honor or memorialize teachers, loved ones or other special people. Employee Giving: Offers FBISD employees an avenue to support the foundation through payroll deductions. Investment Fund: Ensures that the FBEF becomes selfperpetuating. Angels of Education Auxiliary: Established to promote community awareness and to assist with FBEF activities. .com • March 2016

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By Joan Frances

Hometown Heroes:

Frank Haines

enerosity begins with a thought and grows into an action that becomes contagious and exceedingly gratifying. There are many Fort Bend County residents who give back to the community by assisting people who have experienced difficult times. They go about their business, spending countless hours to help their fellow man and asking nothing in return. These are the people who make this world a better place to live. East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry, Inc. provides food, rent, mortgage and utility Frank Haines assistance to individual families in a shortterm crisis. The Tri-City Churches Resale Shop profits go directly to the Financial Assistance Program to help support those in financial stress. Twelve coalition churches contribute to East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry’s Food Pantry, as well as funding from grants, businesses and individual contributions in support of the ministry. This group effort satisfies the essential needs of the less fortunate. Devoted volunteers donate their time to assure that there is a consistent supply of necessities that many people take for granted every day. Without these men and women, the ministry could not survive. For 24 years, Frank Haines from Southminster Presbyterian Church has given his time to assist the organization’s Food Pantry. Haines and his wife Tish began volunteering at the Food Pantry in 1985. Back then, the pantry had just moved into its own facilities. Along with a bread line, it began expanding to add the Senior Sack and Holiday Basket programs. Haines found creative ways to increase the food supply by

hosting donation centers and fundraisers at his church. He set up a crew of workers who generously meet with him twice each month. When asked what motivates Haines to volunteer, he replied, “Matthew 25:35, which reads, ‘For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’” One of the many things Haines enjoys when he comes to the Food Pantry is working with the other volunteers. Executive Director Vickie Coates said, “Frank is a dedicated and generous individual. For as long as I can remember, he has consistently devoted his time and energy to the ministry. The people he works with love what they do, and they know it helps so many people regain confidence and self-worth. He is an asset to our organization.” Members of Haines’ crew said, “He is a great volunteer leader and is very pleasant to work with. He is inspiring and volunteers for the right reason – to help those in need.” In addition to his generous time at the Food Pantry, Haines serves on East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry’s Board of Directors, solicits contributions and even drives the truck on occasions. Haines was born in San Antonio during the Depression and lived on a ranch with his grandfather and aunt in Calhoun County. He went to high school in the city of Wharton, Texas and graduated from Texas A&M University with an engineering degree. He has been married for 66 years to Tish Cofer, who grew up in College Station. They have three children, seven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. The community is so fortunate to have people like the Haines helping to make East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry a place to continue the vocation for God.

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” – Mahatma Gandhi Food Pantry volunteers Travis Boyd, Ruth Dingman, Jane Laine, Janice Hodge, Jane Stilley, Don Sykes, Ann Hawkins, Frank Haines, Don Johnson and Sam Federwisch. TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • March 2016

BUSINESS BRIEFS

StreetLevel Investments Announces Purchase of Former Texas Instruments Campus

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After nearly two years of thoughtful planning with the City of Stafford, Dallas-based StreetLevel Investments and joint-venture partner Provident Realty Advisors, Inc. announced the purchase of 192 acres, which includes the former Texas Instruments (TI) campus. The firm will move forward with plans for the creation of an expansive, mixeduse development, a first for the city. Located at the gateway to Fort Bend County, the reinvented mixed-use destination will be the urban center of southwest Houston, connecting a dynamic group of adjoining neighborhoods. This vibrant environment will weave together a prospective 350,000 square feet of destination retail and dining concepts, 2,400 residential units, Class A office space, two fully-integrated hotels, a health club, entertainment and sweeping green space together in a walkable urban center. “The Texas Instruments campus played a major role in the lives of two generations and was a catalyst for the robust community that grew along Highway 59,” said Adam Schiller, Managing Principal, StreetLevel Investments. “We foresee this development being an engine for growth and a game-changer for southwest Houston and the more than two million people living within a 20 minute drive.” A center point of the project will be a central food hall, where artisan chefs and local purveyors will come together to create an authentic market highlighting the food and flavors of Houston. This will be a daily gathering place and year-round culinary destination. The high-end shopping options will include notable brick-and-mortar stores, as well as inspired pop-up shops showcasing one-of-a-kind and emerging retail and food concepts. The heartbeat of the development will be the central park, a community gathering and event space activated with live music, patio dining, community events and a farmers market. The development will also preserve heritage oak trees and incorporate them into the design. The finished product will include public parking garages, as well as ample street parking. Portions of the original TI buildings will be preserved and repurposed, helping to maintain the site’s authenticity. “I am confident that StreetLevel will build on the strength of our city, while being sensitive to our community’s history,” said Leonard Scarcella, Mayor, City of Stafford. “The development will create an urban core for Stafford and act as an important economic generator.” The first phase of the $500 million, multi-phase project is slated to open summer 2017.

r e n or n

C Bir ’ rick t s a id By P

Co-Dependency: Affluenza Explained

ith all of the headlines focused on “affluenza,” it is important for all parents and caregivers to

consider what might lead to such circumstances. Their legal defense that the child’s upbringing was “too affluent” for the youth to be held accountable should be laughable, and yet, it gets through court. Luckily, there’s a “vaccine” for affluenza if we practice purposeful parenting.

While the term affluenza was purposely picked for its headline potential, the real issue in that court case and many others is what psychologists diagnose as a dysfunctional family exhibiting co-dependent relationships. Co-dependency can have many manifestations, but in this sense it means that the child becomes more attuned to the parents emotions than vice versa, and the parental sacrifice reaches unhealthy and destructive levels. Let’s translate that mumbo jumbo. I have an eight-month-old, and since being born, he has been 100 percent dependent upon my wife and me. Some would say that our focus and dedication to caring for his needs – at all hours of the night, I might add – is unhealthy for us, but it is necessary and normal for his developmental stage. He’ll grow out of it. Co-dependency is when this cycle and a one-sided relationship between the parent and child is never broken, even after infancy. Once the child matures to higher maturity levels, it is up to parents to, for lack of a better phrase, cut the cord. Children aren’t infants, but if they are treated as such, they are never forced to deal with negativity or accountability on their own. For a child

in a co-dependent relationship, instead of the child altering his behavior to fix his problems, the parents or another person are expected to alter their behavior to achieve that end. The easiest way to avoid this is to allow logical consequences to happen with the child instead of swooping in to save him, as well as to ensure that the child respects the time and attention his parents dedicate to themselves and their other relationships. In reality, accountability can only be taught if a person is forced to feel and internalize the emotions that go along with reasonable punishments. It’s natural for a parent to never want their child to hurt or feel sad, but those emotions are critical for their development. I like to say we “manage and minimize” disappointment and sadness,

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meaning we don’t try to ignore or pretend they don’t exist. By allowing my sons to go through those emotions, acknowledging their reactions and talking about how to deal with them, we are preparing them to do all of that on their own. Don’t let the pendulum swing too far in the opposite direction either. Children need to feel that their parents empathize with their emotions. For my three-year-old son, it’s important for him to realize that while I love him infinitely, that does not meant that he always will get 100 percent of my attention immediately when he wants it. Sometimes when I am talking to Mommy, he has to say excuse me and just wait. If he chooses to drink all of his juice in the first 43 seconds of the car ride, I’m not stopping to buy him more. He can wait until we get home, since he chose to drink all of the juice we had and I warned him not to. It’s easier said than done, I know, because the one sure way to ruin a good plan is to add a screaming child. But, with a little commitment, both my sons and I can avoid the affluenza bug. If you have a topic or question you’d like covered or simply want more information, e-mail Patrick Biron at patrick@absolutelyfocusmedia.com.

Fort Bend ISD Elementary Principal of the Year Shares Success Roadmap

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An education-minded mother, influential teachers and a drive to make a difference has taken Heritage Rose Elementary School Principal Lavanta Williams all the way to Elementary School Principal of the Year for Fort Bend Independent School District (FBISD). Williams was raised Lavanta Williams reading to young students Emily Alvarado, Bailey by a single mother in Frazier and Jaden Cowans. Ponchatoula, Louisiana. “Learning was very important to my mother,” Williams said. “She only had a 10th grade education, but she was my first teacher. And then, as I advanced in school, I started teaching her.” Williams became the neighborhood teacher, playing school with other children when he was young and later encouraging them to stay in school. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Southeastern Louisiana University and later a master’s degree in administrative supervision, Williams wanted to have the same effect in the lives of his young students. After teaching in Louisiana for four years, Williams moved to Houston and taught fourth grade in Aldine ISD. After receiving his certification in administration from the University of Houston, he was hired as assistant principal at Ridgemont Elementary. Eventually, he was promoted to principal at Ridgegate Elementary, where he stayed four years before taking the helm at Heritage Rose Elementary, one of four primary schools serving Sienna Plantation. “Lavanta brings great enthusiasm to his work,” said FBISD Assistant Superintendent Dr. Xochitl Rodriguez. “He brings a spirit of collaboration and commitment and is a great communicator, leader and teacher.” The day after the 2015-2016 school year started, Williams was named Fort Bend’s Elementary School Principal of the Year, an honor selected by other district principals. “I couldn’t believe it, but after the initial shock, I felt really honored,” Williams said. Williams has indeed been making a difference during his short tenure at Heritage Rose, setting high standards, bettering communications and holding teachers and students accountable. “We are working toward a growth mindset,” Williams said. “We want to create an environment where students will feel like it’s okay to try and okay to make mistakes as long as we get up and try again. The kids are excited about their academic growth, and there is a dialogue now between teachers that is very exciting. This campus is moving.”

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NEWSWORTHY

Become One of Texas’ Most Wanted at the 2016 Lone Star Stomp

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Channel your inner 1930s gangster at the 27th annual Lone Star Stomp! Set for Saturday, April 16th at the George Ranch Historical Park, this year’s Stomp will be a snazzy Bonnie-and-Clyde affair, complete with live music by Shark Bait, casino tables, whiskey and vodka-tasting stations, signature cocktails and much more. The 2016 theme, Texas’ Most Wanted, comes from an obscure history fact that the infamous Bonnie and Clyde ate a meal at the Eagle Café in Rosenberg shortly before they were killed. The steering committee, chaired by Billie Van Slyke and co-chaired by Dottie Allen, Diane Elko, Lynne Humphries and Robin Rosen, is especially excited to combine the underground party vibe of the 1930s with the classic Texas feel of the Stomp. “We’re planning the most exciting event to date,” Van Slyke said. “And I hope we’ll have a huge crowd to join in the fun! It’s very important to continue to educate our children about our rich history here in Fort Bend County, and also continue to spread the word to everyone about the significant role Fort Bend County played in Texas history.” This year, the Fort Bend County Museum Association is pleased to announce NRG W.A. Parish Generating Station as the Stomp Presenting Sponsor and OCuSOFT, Inc. as the Speakeasy Sponsor. Tickets, sponsorships and underwriting opportunities are available now. All proceeds benefit the Fort Bend Museum, which helps bring Texas and Fort Bend County history alive for thousands of schoolchildren and visitors every year. For more information, call 281-342-1256 or visit www. fortbendmuseum.org/lone-star-stomp.html.

Effective

Merritt Peele, Claire Rogers, Dottie Allen, Jessica Avery, Rose Nurre and Shereen Sampson.

Ask Alex: Downton Abbey

Q A

What is the storyline of Downton Abbey?

Downton Abbey is a British historical period drama by Julian Fellows. Its original air date in the United Kingdom and Ireland was September 26, 2010. It is about a fictional Yorkshire country estate inhabited by the aristocratic Crawley Family and their domestic servants in the post-Edwardian era during the reign of King George V.

Q A

What is the history of the Abbey?

Highclere Castle, the Victorian-era English manor, was built in 1839 and is where the PBS series is shot. It is an actual working estate in the Hampshire Country. Highclere Castle currently is maintained by a staff of 70, and the estate is valued today at more than $240 million dollars.

Q A

How authentic is the set and the etiquette of the actors?

Masterpiece Theatre and PBS have come out with a DVD entitled The Manners of Downton Abbey hosted by the show’s historical advisor Sir Alastair Bruce. He is on set daily to make sure every single aspect on set is accurate of the post-Edwardian era. Bruce explains the differences between “upstairs

etiquette” and “downstairs etiquette” of these topics: how to dine, how to marry, how to behave, how to dress and how to make money.

Q A

Why did the Crawleys’ property not go to Lady Mary, the firstborn?

Family today usually refers to spouses, children, parents and grandchildren. But in the early 20th century, “family” was a much broader concept with individuals as interchangeable commodities. How else can you explain making sure that property goes only to a male heir, including probably someone you’ve never met? The present owner or occupant was merely a temporary custodian for the next family member. Matthew Crawley is related to Robert and Mary Crawley through Robert’s great-great grandfather, who may have been the 3rd Earl of Grantham. Patrick Crawley is related to Robert and Mary through Robert’s grandfather, who may have been the 5th Earl of Grantham and was higher in line of succession than Matthew to the Earldom of Grantham. Matthew Crawley is the heir presumptive to the Earldom of Grantham and would be the 8th Earl of Grantham after the demise of Robert, the 7th Earl of Grantham. Matthew is the Earl’s third cousin once removed. This means that the Earl’s great-great grandfather is Matthew’s great-greatgreat grandfather. After Matthew’s death, his son, George, became the heir presumptive,

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Photo from amazon.com

lex Belt is a mom, business owner and all around in the know kind of gal. Friends call on her relentlessly for advice on how to plan a party and what trend is “in.” In honor of the ending of the television show Downton Abbey, we’re doing what everyone else does – asking Alex!

not Mary. He can still be displaced by the birth of a male son to Robert and Cora. This law of only male heir was demolished by the end of the century. Did you get all of that?

Q A

What is the difference between a butler, footman and valet?

A butler was originally in charge of the wine, but at the time of Downton Abbey, he also organizes the maids and footmen and serves at dinner. The footman originally rode on the footplate of a carriage. Their main duty is to serve at dinner. A valet looks after clothes for the males, and the lady maids looks after clothing for the female. Here are some more fun facts about Downton Abbey: Gillian Anderson, Scully from The X-Files, was offered the role of Lady Cora Grantham, Lord Robert Crawley’s American heiress wife. Downton Abbey is the highestrated PBS Masterpiece series of all time. The Turkish diplomat storyline was based on true events. Maggie Smith, who plays Violet Crawley, Dowager Countess of Grantham, hasn’t watched a single episode. Queen Elizabeth is a fan and likes to point out errors.

1 2 3 4 5

Summer Fun Guide Summer vacations are a time for kids to kick back, relax and most importantly, have fun. And just because school is out doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean that children need to forego learning in the pursuit of having fun. There are many activities that have the potential to be learning experiences. Parents can foster learning throughout the warm-weather months. Here are numerous ideas for maximum fun. Enjoy!

fort bend

magazine â&#x20AC;˘ March 2016

Summer Fun Guide Free – or Almost Free – Summer Fun Ideas

any parents are looking for low-cost activities to keep kids busy this summer. Playing in the sprinkler, climbing trees and catching lightning bugs don’t cost a thing, but they certainly make for happy childhood memories. Make the most of the lazy days of summer without dipping into your savings account. Backyard Camping – There’s no need to send youngsters to sleep-away camps to get a taste of the great outdoors. Set up a tent in your own backyard, roll out the sleeping bags and melt marshmallows in the microwave for S’mores. The best part? If storm clouds or frightened children threaten the success of your campout, you can run inside to your own beds. Scavenger Hunt – Set up your own amazing race by sending your child or a group of children hunting for simple treasures in your house, yard or neighborhood. Because it takes a little effort to come up with the clues, enlist an older sibling or neighbor to help out. Small Business – There has never been a better time to teach your children the value of a dollar, so let kids put the “small” back in small business. The old-fashioned lemonade stand or family yard sale remain good choices. But, let your children’s interests and abilities guide them toward a fundraiser that makes sense, such as a dog wash, car wash, bake sale or lawn mowing service.

THEIR SUMMER TO SHINE Summer Programs at the Fort Bend Family YMCA

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.com • March 2016

Summer Fun Guide

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Summer Fun Guide

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BRAIN TEASER

NEWSWORTHY

By Myles Mellor

It’s Springtime!

Crawl, Climb and Fly with Amazing Butterflies at the Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land’s Newest Exhibit Photo from hmns.org.

Across 1 Yellow spring flowers 8 Wake someone up 9 Cry of a lamb 10 Place where people stay overnight 11 Touch or sight for example 13 Tree 14 Type of poem 15 Churchyard tree in “Romeo and Juliet” 16 Upbeat 18 Brought into the world 21 Full of leaves 22 Areas of water that ice up in winter and melt in spring 25 Just developed 26 Playful fish 27 Street, for short

Down 1 Girl’s name 2 Clean and healthy, like ___ air 3 Not inside the house 4 Spring flowers that are often purple 5 “The ___ Ranger” 6 Spring has more ___ days than winter 7 Making fresh again 12 Direction on a compass 13 Shape of a rainbow 17 What a painter paints on 19 ____ his arms for his sweetheart 20 Fresh water that helps the flowers grow 21 Young boy 23 Part of a tennis game 24 Word used to show “I get it” See answers on page 69.

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Transform into caterpillars and experience a life-size, interactive maze packed with amazing facts and the fun navigation of blind alleys in Amazing Butterflies, a special exhibition at the Houston Museum of Natural Science (HMNS) at Sugar Land running through May 15th. Visitors experience the challenges of being a caterpillar as it morphs into a beautiful butterfly through a hands-on maze of larger-than-life leaves, grass and trees. Along the way, discover the ways caterpillars move, what they eat and how other creatures help them achieve their transformation.

“Butterflies are considered by many to be the most beautiful and interesting of insects,” said Adrienne Barker, director and chief development officer of HMNS at Sugar Land. “One of the most amazing things about this insect is how they transform from caterpillars to butterflies. It is a remarkable occurrence in nature.” The adventure begins as museum goers look through eggs to see caterpillar friends climbing on leaves and beginning to feed. Learn to crawl like a caterpillar by slipping into a set of caterpillar legs and using teamwork and locomotion to sprint for the finish line. See why carpenter ants in Panama defend metalmark caterpillars from parasitic wasps and other predators, and feed a caterpillar its lunch through team games and contests. Once the transformation from pupa to butterfly is complete, practice flapping giant butterfly wings while avoiding spider webs that lurk around every turn. The “Nectar Food Path Puzzle” and “Squeeze and Sniff” stations explain how butterflies find food by sight and smell. Also study how butterflies select a specific plant on which to lay their eggs. Finally, mark your progress as a butterfly by stamping a souvenir garden card at eight stations before zooming out of the maze as a butterfly on “The Monarch Monorail” mini zip line. Amazing Butterflies is produced by Minotaur Mazes, Seattle, based on an exhibition created for the Natural History Museum in London, United Kingdom with their scientific input and interpretation. This exhibition is locally sponsored by the Fort Bend Junior Service League and the City of Sugar Land Tourism. Tickets for Amazing Butterflies are now on sale and may be purchased online. For more information, visit www. hmns.org or call 281-313-2227.

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.com • March 2016

ugar Creek Baptist Church invites the community to a weekend of celebration this Easter. Check out one of their Good Friday services on March 25th at the Sugar Land campus, located in the southwest corner of the intersection of Highway 59 and Alternate 90 at 13333 Southwest Freeway. An English service will be offered at 7 pm followed by a Spanish service at 7:30 pm. Or, visit their Sienna campus, located at 500 Waters Lake Boulevard in Missouri City, at 7 pm. For convenience, Sugar Creek Baptist Church offers seven Easter services on two campuses and in two languages. English services will take place at the Sugar Land campus on Saturday, March 26th at 5 pm and Sunday, March 27th at 8, 9:30 and 11 am. A Spanish service will be held at 12:35 pm on Sunday. Easter services at the Sienna campus will take place at 9:30 and 11 am on Sunday. Sugar Creek Baptist Church allows visitors to experience God in a friendly, multi-cultural setting and discover relevant, practical Bible teaching. Their weekly Sunday English worship times are at 8:15, 9:30 and 11:00 am at the Sugar Land campus, followed by a Spanish service at 12:35 pm. Weekly Sunday services at the Sienna campus take place at 10 am. Childcare is offered during all services. For more information, call 281-2422858 or visit sugarcreek.net. See ad on page 15.

Easter Services

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An Easter for Everyone

f you had asked around in Jerusalem that day, most folks would have said that it was all over. For after the seeming finality of his trial and crucifixion, it’s understandable why those who had followed the man would have been dispersed, defeated and dejected. But, the amazing aspect of it was that God wasn’t finished. For three days after his death, Jesus returned in the most spectacular comeback of all time, one so unbelievable that the authorities had to pay folks to lie about it in an attempt to “cover up” the clear miracle of Christ’s resurrection, because from that moment on, everything in the world changed and has never been the same since. That’s precisely why Easter is so amazing. The resurrection event not only altered the trajectory of the world’s history, it can change the course of lives as well, no matter how confusing or contradictory they may be. Indeed, as the old song puts it, “Because He lives, I can face tomorrow!” For those who have not yet experienced the power of God in their lives, Easter is a perfect time to find out what they have been missing. For the same force that enabled Jesus to

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rise from the dead can help people to rise up out of their situations in life as well. Why not come and discover it? For more information, contact Helen Lavie, communications director of Christ Church Sugar Land, at 318-542-1477 or e-mail helenl@christchurchsl.org.

magazine • March 2016

High School HOT SHOT

By Joan Frances

Meet William Moen

illiam P. Clements High School is one of the most prestigious schools in Fort Bend Independent School District. The school is the third best comprehensive public school in Texas and has a reputation for highly qualified teachers, a diversified curriculium and a graduating class with top scholarship offers. One senior who has achieved an impressive resumé is William Moen. William has taken Advanced Placement classes most of his high school career. He has excelled at the Scholastic Aptitude Tests and American College Testing and has earned 12 collegiate credit hours. He received the Academic Excellence and Citizenship Award and lettered in academics. One value William lives by is courage. He said, “We face the challenge of showing courage on a daily basis. I can observe different forms of courage every day in someplace as simple as school. There is an aspect of intellectual courage, emotional courage and moral courage. Most importantly, how can somebody be a leader without courage? Aristotle even understood the importance of courage, naming it the first virtue.” William has been a member of the Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training for all four years of high school. He is the executive officer of his unit and the Interim Color Guard Commander. He commanded the Color Guard to the Area 10 State Competition for the 2013-2014, 2014-2015 and now, the 2015-2016 school year. He was also the Bravo Platoon Senior Chief, Varsity Academics and Color Guard Team Commander. Wil-

William liam graduated from basic leadership training and the leadership academy and won first place in marksmanship. He received the Military Order of the Purple Heart’s Award for leadership and was also bestowed the Military Officer’s Association America’s Award for showing great aptitude as an officer of the armed forces. When asked why being a leader is so fulfilling to him, William said, “A leader’s true goal is to have others succeed. Leaders do not lead for self-gain but to see the team earn great achievements. The overwhelming feeling I experienced when one of my cadets earned an award, got recognized or simply did something that wasn’t asked of them is summed up in one word – pride. My own notoriety will always come second to the fulfillment of my followers’ needs and wants.” William is also a member of the Latin club and competed in the Junior Classic League in Roman and Greek History. Recently, he was admitted to the National Latin Honor Society. When asked about the one thing he treasures most about his high school experience, William said, “More than anything, I will treasure the amazing

people I have met along my journey. It’s these relationships built on compassion, trust and devotion that I will always treasure. The countless road trips, afternoon meet-ups, torturous school days and after-school practices will always be etched in my brain because of the wonderful community of friends that I have.” During his time outside of school, William is engaged in Episcopal Youth Community where he leads youth group once a month. He has donated over 300 hours of community service through Clements, NJROTC and his church. He also leads worship service with Greatwood Retirement & Assisted Living twice every month. William volunteers at many other organizations and attends church mission trips.

William Moen participated in Wreaths Across America, a program that honors fallen troops.

William plans to attend the University of South Carolina and major in economics. Additionally, William will enroll in the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps, which will provide him with a minor in naval science. Congratulations William on your undeniable leadership qualities and commitment to making this world a better place to live, and good luck in your future endeavors.

“A leader’s true goal is to have others succeed. Leaders do not lead for self-gain but to see the team earn great achievements.” – William Moen TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • March 2016

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magazine • March 2016

before

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absolutely! A Ua T bO s oR l uEtVe Il E yW ! ABy U TSteve O RKursar EVIEW

2016 TOYOTA TACOMA T he 2016 Toyota Tacoma mid-size pickup truck is all new inside and out, yet it retains a familiar quality that fans of the best-selling truck will appreciate. The front fascia has a new grill and rear tailgate that features the stamped Tacoma logo. But the truck’s profile is remarkably similar to the previous model. Don’t be fooled though, this third generation Tacoma is more capable, loaded with technology and better fuel economy. The first Toyota Tacoma appeared on United States highways back in 1995 as a compact pickup and grew to midsize stature when the second generation truck debuted in 2005. The Tacoma is by far a more popular Toyota truck than its

larger, full-size brother the Tundra. The newest Tacoma is all about toughness and capability. All models now get the same higher, tougher suspension package that used to be reserved only for 4x4 models, a good indicator as to what Toyota wants to do with the new truck. The 2016 off-road versions are decidedly beefier, and gone is the single cab, low suspension trim that was popular with pickup buyers looking to save some money. The base 2016 Tacoma gets the 159 hp, 2.7 liter four-cylinder engine that carries over from the previous generation model with no changes. It’s a proven, time-tested engine that is mated to a new six-speed automatic transmission delivering EPA estimated fuel economy numbers of 19 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. The new Tacoma does get a new, sophisticated 278 hp, 3.5 liter V6 engine to replace the venerable 4.0 liter. A lot of serious Toyota engineering went into giving this powertrain the ability to deliver 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway – even better fuel economy than the smaller four-cylinder engine.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • March 2016

The interior is completely redesigned to keep you connected hands-free through the Entune system and to keep your devices wirelessly charged with the iQ wireless system. There is also far more insulation, a multi-layer acoustic windshield, a sound-absorbing headliner and a floor silencer pad to make for a much quieter ride. Every new Tacoma comes standard with a GoPro camera mount affixed to the windshield. The new 2016 Tacoma is sure to win over new buyers looking for a smaller truck that’s easier to maneuver than a full-size pickup, yet is still capable of hauling a serious load and going offroad with ease. Follow Steve Kursar at KursarOnCars. blogspot.com.

absolutely

Home Living H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S

F E AT U R I N G 5 Simple Tips to Complete a Closet Makeover Garden Guy Imperial Sugar Land Lake Pointe Commons Sienna Plantation J & L Distributors Rodney Lerner Harvest Green Environmental Protech Riverstone Debbie Marcell Sara Appliance & Electronics Grand Mission Estates KW Southwest Kristin Lytle ZuhnĂŤ

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magazine â&#x20AC;˘ March 2016

H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S

Get Motivated to Get Organized

Simple Tips to Complete a Closet Makeover

t’s that time of year when you think about getting organized for a fresh new start. But how many times have you thought about finally clearing out your closet, decided it’s just too overwhelming, and simply shut the door only to think about it later? Once you make a commitment and get on board with the project, go from there with these tips from Barbara Reich, professional organizer.

Start by determining your overall goal. Are you simply organizing what you have, or do you need to purge unused items? Get rid of things you don’t need or won’t wear. Remember that items in good condition can be donated to those in need.

Once you’ve determined just how much stuff you’ll have to organize, it’s time to consider what systems will best fit your space and needs. A do-it-yourself closet organizer product is affordable, easy to install and adjustable, making it simple to create a customized design. Accessories, such as drawers and shoe shelves, help personalize the space, while fabric bins are perfect for storing handbags and other smaller items.

Before you decide exactly which pieces you need, sketch out your plan on paper or use an online design tool. ClosetMaid’s DIY Design Tool even provides a parts list to

help ensure you buy the right pieces for your design. You may also find it helpful to make a categorized list of all of the items you need to store and mark them off as you identify the right storage products for your space.

Once you install your new system, the fun really begins. Start by hanging as much as possible; this makes it easier to see what you have. Group and place like things together by category, such as pants, skirts and tops. Then within each category, group by season and by color. Take advantage of prime real estate by positioning the things you wear most often in the place that is most accessible and easiest to reach.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • March 2016

Once you have everything hung and stored in its proper place, congratulate yourself on having the closet makeover checked off your list. However, to continue enjoying your newfound organization, you must be vigilant about keeping the space organized. Have a plan in mind when you purchase new things. Ask yourself if you really need the item and determine what you can discard to make room. Call 1-800-874-0008 or visit www. ClosetMaid.com for more tips to help you get organized this year.

Source: Family Features

H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S

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• Celebrating 25 years in Landscape Design and Installation • 16-year FIRST COLONY and FORT BEND COUNTY resident

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magazine • March 2016

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H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S Creating a Private Wildlife Sanctuary

Listen to the sound of the songbirds and see the butterflies sipping nectar from wildflowers. Hear the splash of a cardinal bathing in your birdbath and see your children learning more about God’s creatures. This could be your backyard! It doesn’t matter what part of Fort Bend County you live in or how much space you have, you can create a habitat for wildlife and even get it certified as an official Backyard Wildlife Habitat site with the National Wildlife Federation (NWF). According to The National Wildlife Federation, there are few key things needed to create a wildlife sanctuary in your yard: food, water, cover and a safe place to raise young. Food sources include seeds from a plant, berries, nectar, foliage, twigs, nuts, fruits, pollen, suet, bird feeders, squirrel feeders, hummingbird feeders and butterfly feeders. Water sources include a small birdbath, a pond or a trickling water feature. Small wildlife like a place where they can feel safe. Having bushes or short shrubs where they can feel protected from humans, predators and inclement weather is a must. Spring will be here soon, and now is a great time to get a plan for creating a habitat for birds, butterflies and other amazing small creatures that visit the area. Once you have installed these elements into your yard and created a healthy and sustainable wildlife habitat, enroll in the NWF’s Certified Wildlife Habitat™ program at www.nwf.org/How-to-Help/Garden-for-Wildlife/Create-a-Habitat.aspx. Garden Guy would love to help you create and install the elements for an amazing backyard wildlife habitat! For more information, call 281-208-4400 or visit www.garden-guy.com. See ad on page 59.

New Homes Highlight Lifestyle of Imperial Sugar Land An impressive collection of new luxury lifestyle homes by two of Houston’s most respected homebuilders are now available in Imperial, Sugar Land’s premier master-planned community at Highway 6 and Highway 90A. Imperial offers Sugar Land’s newest Brownstones where active empty nesters looking to downsize or young families just starting out can enjoy these low-maintenance, elevator-ready residences by Gracepoint Homes. Ranging from 3,350 to 4,000 square feet, these three-story luxury homes with second and third-floor balconies reflect a 19th century, east coast charm. Starting in the $630s, the Brownstones offer second-floor, open-concept living and entertaining spaces with raised ceilings, a spacious gourmet kitchen, family room and dining room. In Imperial’s new section of Crown Garden, Meritage Homes has opened a temporary sales office where the five-time Texas builder has initiated pre-sales of spectacular new homes ideal for move-up, luxury and active adult buyers. Priced from the $450s, plans feature chef-inspired kitchens, open dining and family rooms, inviting master suites and outdoor entertaining spaces. Or, choose from well-designed, garden-style patio homes in gated and lakefront neighborhoods by Darling Homes, Partners in Building and Sitterle Homes featuring open-concept floor plans for entertaining, private studies, game rooms, wine grottos, private courtyards, outdoor kitchens and three-car garages. Visit Imperial’s model homes, open daily, and its weekly Farmers Market. For more information, visit www.ImperialSugarLand.com.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • March 2016

Pelican Builders’ Unparalleled Quality at Lake Pointe Commons The standard finishes and fixtures of the homes at Lake Pointe Commons are considered upgrades to most other homebuilders. Not so with Pelican Builders. Come visit the Model Home Village at Lake Pointe Commons and see what this gated community of 46 single-family homes in the Lake Pointe mixed-use development of Sugar Land is all about. The luxuriously appointed furnished models are located just minutes from Highway 59 and Highway 6, the epicenter of Sugar Land’s Town Center. Lake Pointe Commons offers luxury, convenience and access to unique lifestyle centers unlike any other community. Walk out the back gate at Lake Pointe Commons and stroll along Brooks Lake to dine at fine restaurants, grab a quick bite or shop. To date, more than half of the homes are sold, and more than 20 families are currently living in this exclusive neighborhood by Pelican Builders, which offers five different floor plans ranging from 2,313 square feet to 3,200 square feet and prices starting from $495,000. Only four lake front lots remain available, and these are some of the last remaining lake front lots in Sugar Land on which to build. With nine inventory homes under construction, there are several floor plans to choose from, and some homes are available for immediate move-in! Lake Pointe Commons offers gated access and privacy, elegant architecture and common area features including a lake front swimming pool, a cabana and lake front access. For more information, contact Lizz or Chris Sansone at 281-753-0333 or visit at www.lakepointecommons.com. See ad on page 59.

H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S

Advertorial

Living the Sweet Life! Sugar Land’s sweet life begins at Imperial,

where active empty nesters and young families enjoy patio homes, brownstones and executive homes in a one-of-a-kind community. See the Skeeters play and the fireworks soar at Constellation Field, shop the weekly farmers market, visit the soon-to-open Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center and watch Imperial Market come to life with Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, Aloft hotel, and upscale retail and eateries.

Imperial Sugar Land—Live the Sweet Life!

NEW MODELS NOW OPEN! from the $400s

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Welcome to the best of both worlds — Luxury design and low-maintenance living! Enjoy well-appointed homes from two awardwinning builders, a low-maintenance lifestyle and the vibrancy of living in one of Fort Bend’s most exciting master-planned communities.

Patio Model Opening Celebration Friday, March 4th from 4:30-6:30pm.

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Patio homes by Darling & Trendmaker from the $360s! fort bend

siennaplantation.com . Live Well. Play Hard. Have Fun.

magazine • March 2016

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H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S

New Patio Home Models Open in Sienna Plantation

FROM THE FACTORY TO YOUR HOUSE

Professional installation service from the leading manufacturer of kitchen fixtures: -Genuine 2-3CM natural stone countertop -16 Gauge stainless steel undermount sink* -Exclusive European style pull-out faucet* -Award-winning water & soap dispensers* -Designer energy efficient range hoods Lifetime warranty on all products & parts *Food grade stainless – lead free certified

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TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • March 2016

Builders have opened two new model homes in Sienna Plantation’s fourth patio home neighborhood, Rosewood. Darling Homes has opened a model at 2218 Twin Rose Drive, located in the Village of Sawmill Lake, Sienna’s newest collection of neighborhoods. Darling Homes offers eight patio home designs in Rosewood, priced from the $360,000s and ranging from approximately 2,200 square feet to more than 3,000 square feet. The three-bedroom designs offer such desirable features as open-concept living areas, covered patios and gourmet kitchens. The builder’s signature Texas basements provide 450 square feet of storage space. Trendmaker Homes’ new model at 9802 Maroon Peak highlights the builder’s contemporary luxury townhomes. Priced from the $440,000s, the one and two-story designs boast extensive outdoor living spaces, island kitchens and three-car garages. The 11 designs range from approximately 2,400 to more than 3,100 square feet. “These patio homes easily complement the many home designs available in the Village of Sawmill Lake,” said Alvin San Miguel, general manager of Sienna Plantation. “Empty nesters may prefer low-maintenance patio home living while young families may opt for a single-family home priced from the $280,000s. And luxury buyers can choose from homes in the gated Fox Bend in the Village of Sawmill Lake or another of Sienna’s upscale neighborhoods.” Thirty-eight homesites are available in Rosewood, one of 12 neighborhoods open in the Village of Sawmill Lake, which also will be home to Sienna’s fourth multi-use recreation center, a new, on-site elementary school and a middle school. Visit www.siennaplantation.com for more information. See ad on page 61.

H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S

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Rodney Lerner Offers Answers, Guidance and Service The Art of Window Dressing The art of window dressing can help freshen any home this spring and personalize a home’s interiors in a variety of ways that can also gently filter light, provide optimal views and intimate privacy. Keep the home fresh by incorporating unexpected fabrics and colors into window treatments. J & L Distributors has several products, such as Hunter Douglas Pirouettes, that offer fabric choices ranging from satin metallic to linen to shantung and everything in between. Trending colors are very neutral, in taupe, sandalwood, oat and champagne. Modern fabric choices in traditional colors can put a fresh spin on classic concepts. Valances are in again! A valance in a dining room, for example, will amp up the drama. Simple valances with soft edges can add character to spaces or tone down the busyness of any room. Valances should be hung above window frames to draw the eye upward. Split the difference between the crown molding and the top of the window when deciding where to hang it. The best trick to adding impact is to trim a curtain with color, add nail heads to valances for a tailored and more masculine effect or simply add accent pillows that draw on the colors in the window treatments. J & L Distributors can help clients choose the right treatments based on their preferences and budget. Drop by to see their full showroom or call for an in-home consultation. They look forward to serving you! For more information, call 281-4036733. See ad on page 2.

As a career Realtor with 32 years of experience, Rodney Lerner’s passion is helping his clients achieve their real estate goals, whether it be finding that perfect dream home for a buyer or advising a seller on how to best maximize the sales price. Lerner takes pride in delivering the client’s expected result while delivering the highest level of customer service. In 2015, Lerner was awarded the designation of Five Star Realtor by Texas Monthly Magazine, a direct result of feedback from his clients and his production. The year 2016 promises to be very challenging for home sales in Fort Bend County. The impact of low oil prices on the local economy combined with the drop in the stock market will have an effect on consumer confidence, not to mention 2016 is an election year, adding to consumer angst. Sellers and buyers more than ever need a strong, competent Realtor partner. Rodney Lerner consistently delivers positive results and value. Even as the market slowed in 2015, Lerner continued to perform at a level exceeding market averages, selling his listings at 99 percent of list price, while saving his buyers money closing at 95 percent of list price. He does so by advising his sellers on the proper preparation in order to achieve top dollar and correctly positioning the list price when taking the house to market. As a Certified Negotiation Expert, a designation held by only two percent of all Realtors, Lerner delivers value to his buyer clients while earning five star reviews on the HAR Client Experience Survey for his service, efficiency and market knowledge. For more information, call 713-705-1859.

Rodney Lerner Trust the Difference

Answers, Guidance & Service.

Texas Monthly Five Star Realtor Licensed Broker Associate 32 Years of Experience Commercial and Residential

713-705-1859 rodney@rod-realty.com rod-realty.com

That’s exactly what I’m offering.

Call Rodney:

16525 Lexington Blvd, Ste 260 Sugar Land, TX 77479

When you are buying or selling a home, you want an experienced, competent agent that provides -

65 RIMINA WAY

1807 OAK SHADOW

2015 WESTSHORE

This Sienna Plantation home on a large cul-de-sac lot features a 4-car garage, 2 bedrooms down, covered patio w/ outdoor kitchen, game room & media room downstairs, 2nd game room upstairs, double front doors, & high-end kitchen finishes w/ stainless steel appliances, exotic granite countertops & double ovens. Community offers many family-friendly amenities.

This is the Greatwood home you’ve been waiting for! Eight foot doors, ten foot ceilings or higher throughout, large laundry/mud room with built in cabinets & laundry chute, extra large garage with wider doors & taller ceilings. Workout room/workshop in third stall with a/c, wrap around covered back porches, speaker system, flagstone patios & much more!

Immaculate Brightwater home has upgrades galore. New roof, new HVAC up and down. Freshly painted inside with many upgrades, custom plantation shutters, & several rooms w/ built in shelving. Kitchen features granite counters, under cabinet lighting, tile back-splash. Fenced breezeway, patio space, pool & lush landscaping make for captivating outdoor entertaining.

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magazine • March 2016

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H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S

Harvest Green to Sow Big Fun at March 12th and 13th Grand Opening Homes, produce and other good things are sprouting in Harvest Green. Houston’s first farm-centric development, Harvest Green is a Fort Bend development that features an on-site farm and neighborhood and optional backyard gardens. The grand opening set for Saturday, March 12th from 1 to 5 pm and Sunday, March 13th from 1 to 4 pm will pay tribute to the community’s homegrown ambiance with a farmers market, live music, children’s activities and tours of 11 new model homes. Plus, Mix 96.5 will be broadcasting from the event. Builders were eager to take root in Harvest Green, offering an array of designs base priced from the $260,000s. Selling in the community are D.R. Horton, Darling Homes, David Weekley Homes, Highland Homes, Lennar, Meritage Homes, Newmark Homes, Perry Homes, Plantation Homes, Trendmaker Homes and Westin Homes. A fulltime, on-site lifestyle director plans a variety of resident events and has already hosted several. Plus, The Promenade – slated to open later this year – will give residents a pool, fitness center, splash pad, event lawn, lakeside amphitheater, park and playground. Edible Earth has been hired to manage the Village Farm and 300 acre Harvest Green Farm. Eventually, residents will be able to purchase weekly supplies of produce through a community farm share program and even lease their own 20x20 plots to grow their own food. Harvest Green will also have an on-site elementary school that is scheduled to open in 2017. For more information, visit www.harvestgreentexas. com.

Riverstone Keeps No. 1 Texas Ranking Riverstone has again been ranked the top-selling master-planned community in Texas, according to lists released by two independent research firms. John Burns Real Estate Consulting and Robert Charles Lesser & Co. (RCLCO) have the Fort Bend community as the highestranked Texas development with 609 homes sold last year. Both tallies have Riverstone as No. 5 among the nation’s top-selling developments. This is the fourth consecutive year for Riverstone to be ranked among the nation’s 10 top-selling communities and the second consecutive year for the development to be listed No. 1 in Texas. “Buyers are drawn to Riverstone’s Fort Bend location, outstanding amenity package, excellent schools and array of home choices offered in the community,” said Trey Reichert, vice president and general manager of Riverstone. “Texas as a whole – and particularly Houston – has a very competitive housing market, and among the many choices buyers have, Riverstone continues to shine.” The next closest Houston development on the list sold more than 160 fewer homes during 2015 than Riverstone. Riverstone is one of two projects of The Johnson Development to rank among the 20 top-selling master-planned communities in the nation. Woodforest, located in South Montgomery County, was listed as No. 20 by both firms. Seventeen builders offer designs in Riverstone with prices from the $300,000s to the millions. Residents enjoy amenities with a country club ambiance and top Fort Bend ISD schools. Visit www.riverstone.com for more information on the popular Fort Bend development.

Environmental Protech For 20 years, Environmental Protech has made it their mission to improve the quality of lives in Greater Houston. By providing high quality water treatment equipment at a fair price and keeping the customer’s interest as top priority, Environmental Protech has established itself at the forefront of the Houston area water treatment industry. Owners Robert and Mindy Kersey continually thank their success to God and the missional attitude the company encompasses. Recent projects have included support for the B.O.N.A. Foundation, which works to increase awareness in regards to childhood obesity and nutrition education. In addition, large amounts of physical, spiritual and financial support have been given to Right To Be Free and HardtHaven Home, both of which work toward freeing labor slaves on Lake Volta in Ghana while fostering children during their rehabilitation and integration. Finally, Environmental Protech TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

has supported missionaries around the world since their start in 1996. Recipients of their support have shared the Word to people on four different continents and among a multitude of people groups. Environmental Protech’s newest project is a three-year support of Elizabeth Lane as she travels to South Asia to share the Gospel with some of the least reached people groups in the world. Elizabeth has worked with the company over the course of many years and led the charge in initiating the missional aspects of the company. Her leadership and influence has inspired other employees on missions of their own, while she continues to be a beacon of light for the water industry and Fort Bend County. For more information, email iknowmyh2o@aol.com or call 281-495-4420. See ad on page 62. .com • March 2016

H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S

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com Visit our beautiful new model homes! Resort-style Amenities . Waterside Living . $300s-Millions

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Harvest Green is conveniently located on 99/Grand Pkwy minutes away from everything in Katy & Sugar Land!

D. R. Horton . Darling Homes . David Weekley Homes Highland Homes . Lennar . Plantation Homes Meritage Homes . Newmark Homes . Perry Homes Trendmaker Homes . Westin Homes

n u S & m p 5 1 t a S

New Homes from the $260s

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magazine • March 2016

H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S

Advertorial

RIVERSTONE MAJESTIC POINTE GATED COMMUNITY Luxury, Sophistication, Elegance along with superior workmanship are the cornerstones for long time highly regarded custom builder, Sterling Classic Homes. Open floor plan with dramatic high ceilings and tall windows features a media and gameroom with cleverly designed views of the gorgeous 75 acre lake from as many rooms as possible. Elegant finishes, custom art in dome ceiling in master bath. Dramatic outdoor living space on the water.

LAKE

14 Haven Shore Ln • Over 8300 Sqft. 1386 Sqft. Bonus • 4 Car Garage • MLS# 94734324 • $2,800,000 LAKE

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6 Haven Shore Ln • 7923 Sqft. 1051 Sqft. Bonus • 4 Car garage • MLS# 33407220 • $2,683,000

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Debbie Marcell Better Homes and Gardens Gary Greene

2323 Town Center Dr. Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-782-2102 (cell) 281-980-5050 (o) www.debbiemarcell.com debbiemarcell@garygreene.com

7732 Fairchild Blvd • MLS# 3512334

Debbie Marcell’s Committed Approach to Caring for Clients Armed with high energy, Debbie Marcell’s sincere commitment and dedication to her real estate clients are demonstrated in the professionalism, competency and hands-on personalized service that she provides. A longtime top producer, Marcell earned the Emerald Elite Status in 2013 and 2014, which recognizes the top two percent of agents in the Better Homes and Garden Gary Greene network. Marcell was named as a Five Star Real Estate Professional in Texas Monthly for the past three years. With over $32M in closed sales in the prior two years, Marcell has gained expertise in working through the various aspects of the process. As the listing agent for Sterling Classic Homes in Riverstone, Marcell has sold this builder’s high-end, custom homes in the exclusive Hartford Landing and Ivy Bend neighborhoods for the last three years. Most recently, she closed on the first home being built in the new Majestic Pointe lake front neighborhood, where pricing begins at $1.7M and at $2.6M on the waterfront. A longtime resident of Sugar Land and now Missouri City, Marcell is passionate about putting her extensive knowledge of the market and her valuable experience to work, assisting her buyers and sellers in all price ranges throughout the county. For more information, call 281-782-2102 or visit www.debbiemarcell.com.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • March 2016

Right here in Sugar Land, Sara Appliance & Electronics partners with multiple trusted brands, featuring Sony, GE, Thermador and many more to make customer service a priority! Co-Owner Mehul Parikh said, “We really believe in quality customer experience combined with quality products. Anyone can go to the Internet, ‘point and click’ and hope they make the right home choices. At Sara, we want to help you choose the best products for your needs and your space.” Whether customizing kitchen appliances or updating electronics, both are big projects to get right. “That’s why we help you personally,” Parikh said. “Tell us what you love and how your family will use the space, and throughout your consultation, we’ll find inspiration! From design to installation, we are with you every step of the way.” Whether a family is gathering in their customized kitchen enjoying a special dinner or in their theater room for movie night, Sara offers entry-level to high-end electronics and appliances from all major brands, as well as customized design and installation. “We want you to get the best experience, the best value and the best performance,” said Parikh. “Home theaters and custom kitchens are our specialties. If you’ve been dreaming of a new kitchen, right now Thermador has a special offer: We Cook, You Dine! We invite you to our showroom for a look at what we can do!” For more information, call 281-2771522 or visit www.saraae.com. See ad on page 13.

H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S

Advertorial

Grand Mission Estates Touts Ample Selection, Inviting Amenities Highland Homes and Plantation Homes are giving home buyers plenty of choices in Grand Mission Estates, an amenity-rich development in Richmond. Plantation Homes and Highland Homes build in the 50 and 60-foot sections of the community. Plantation Homes offers 11 designs on 50-foot homesites, priced from the $250,000s, as well as 14 plans on 60-foot properties, priced from the $300,000s. Highland Homes’ pricing also is from the $250,000s for the 13 plans offered for 50-foot homesites. Homes on 60-foot properties start from the $290,000s. The builder offers 10 designs in that neighborhood. The designs feature such coveted amenities as open floor plans, expansive outdoor living areas and island kitchens. A wealth of options and designer upgrades – media rooms, extended master suites, hardwood flooring and more – allow buyers to customize their homes to fit their specific needs. Residents of Grand Mission Estates enjoy an expansive pool complex with water slides, a lap pool, a lagoon pool with spray toys and a splash pad. Within walking distance is a second recreation area situated along the lake that includes a pool and playground. Other amenities include a fitness center, basketball court, soccer field, playgrounds, trails and community lakes. Students attend Juan Sequin Elementary, David Crockett Middle School and George Bush High School in the highly regarded Fort Bend ISD. A project of McGuyer Homebuilders, Inc., parent company of Plantation Homes, Grand Mission Estates is conveniently located south of the Westpark Tollway between the Grand Parkway and Highway 6. Visit www.GrandMissionEstatesTX.com for more information.

Models Open Daily! You’ll find everything you’ll need in Grand Mission Estates – elegant homes by respected builders, inviting amenities, top schools and easy access to shopping, dining and employment. Why sacrifice when you can have it all in Grand Mission Estates?

2 Recreation Centers 38 Acre Lake Fort Bend ISD

50’ and 60’ Homesites from the $260s

COMING APRIL 2016

MEDICAL FOCUS

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Prices subject to change without notice.

magazine • March 2016

Advertorial

H O M E I S W H E R E T H E H E A RT I S

Real Estate Professional Kristin Lytle

KW Southwest: The Real Estate Company of Choice in Fort Bend Making a cross-country move can be a daunting task. Just ask the Harris family. A Navy family from San Diego, coming off active-duty and looking to set down roots in Houston, was feeling overwhelmed by the process of house hunting and finding not only the perfect home but also the right neighborhood for their family of eight. The KW Southwest (KWSW) Team was able to quickly find the right neighborhood, get them into a lease and find the perfect home to purchase nine months later. Choosing the right team for a person’s residential or commercial real estate needs can be overwhelming. But, it doesn’t have to be. KWSW brings compassion, experience and cutting-edge technology to an otherwise transaction-based experience. Real estate is not just about transactions but about teamwork between agents, buyers and sellers. The Harris family discovered that KWSW’s knowledge of the local market, willingness to consult and approachability sets them apart from other groups. KWSW focuses on providing resources, continuing education and personal development of their agents so they can deliver buyers and sellers an experience that is consultative and personal. Clients will find that KWSW’s agents work tirelessly to meet their unique needs and strive to bring a sense of community to every interaction. KWSW has the team to advise and guide both first-time buyers and investor with buying and selling know-how through the ever-changing Fort Bend landscape to the place they’ll call home. For more information, visit www.kwsw.com or call 281-265-0000. See ad on page 12. TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • March 2016

The highest compliment for a job well done is when clients and colleagues recommend a real estate professional for the Five Star Real Estate Agent Award featured in Texas Monthly. As part of an indepth research process, real estate agents are evaluated based on customer service, integrity, market knowledge, communication and negotiation skills, closing preparation, helping clients find the right home, marketing the home being sold and scoring highest in overall satisfaction. The award recognizes three percent of the real estate agents in the local market. For the sixth consecutive year, Kristin Lytle, a broker associate with Hometown America, Inc., has received recognition as a Five Star Agent. “Thank you to all of my clients and colleagues for the confidence and trust you have placed in me. I am honored to once again receive this prestigious recognition,” said Lytle. As a real estate professional for 15 years, Lytle assists buyers and sellers in all of Fort Bend County, and her record speaks for itself. More than 90 percent of her transactions have been referrals from satisfied clients and friends. Active in the community where she lives and works, Lytle founded Friends of Old Sugar Land 25 years ago. She has also volunteered with multiple community initiatives including serving as a commissioner for Sugar Land Planning and Zoning, board member with Fort Bend Senior Citizens, secretary for Old Sugar Land Homeowners’ Alliance in addition to serving on various boards at schools her children attended. For more information, call 281414-3059 or e-mail kristinlytle@aol. com. See ad on page 14.

Zuhnë Professional Installation Services Zuhnë is a Houston-based manufacturer and distributor of premium stainless steel sinks, faucets and range hoods. Their mission is simple: Be the leading and most trusted supplier for kitchen building and remodeling projects. Continuous improvement and setting the standard in form, function and fit has ensured that they are consistently ranked as one of the top brands in all of their product categories. Now, Zuhnë is bringing quality installation services and manufacturer direct pricing to the Greater Houston area. Customers can mix and match exclusive stone countertops, highly acclaimed stainless steel sinks, water efficient faucets, energy saving range hoods and designer kitchen fittings. They guarantee competitive pricing, superior customer service and top quality. Kitchens are undeniably the heart of today’s homes. Upgrading it has the biggest impact in terms of return on investment. Now, with Zuhnë’s mix and match pricing model, the numbers have become even more attractive. Experience Zuhnë difference. Schedule a complimentary visit to get ideas and free estimates. For more information, call 855559-8463 or e-mail services@zuhne. com. See ad on page 62.

NEW LOCATION

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fort bend

magazine • March 2016

NEWSWORTHY

Council Member Himesh Gandhi Files for Re-election to Sugar Land City Council, At-Large Position 1

Council member Himesh Gandhi filed for re-election to the Sugar Land City Council, At-Large Position 1. First elected by a city-wide vote in 2012, council member Gandhi remains committed to responsible, transparent city government, superior development and smart spending to keep the City living within its means. “Since the first day I served on City Council, I have focused on improving the lives of the people of Sugar Land,” said Gandhi. “I am proud of the accomplishments our council has made to address public safety, aging infrastructure, and also for the recent mobility plan addressing future development and traffic in our region. Despite the recent struggles of the energy sector, Sugar Land has maintained low tax rates for both homeowners and businesses that have strengthened our City’s economic base. “I am indebted to the residents of Sugar Land for putting their faith in me as their at-large city council member. I am also grateful and thankful for the support of my wife Farrah as I seek another term in public service to our City.” Since his election to Sugar Land City Council in 2012, Councilman Gandhi has put his values into action to help Sugar Land continue its mission to enhance the quality of life in the community while excelling in the delivery of public service. “Sugar Land has been recognized both in Texas and nationally for the quality of live in our community,” said Gandhi. “Much of this success is due to careful long range planning and our coun-

cil’s commitment to protect the balance between economic development and the interests of our citizens.” A 24 year resident of Sugar Land, Gandhi is known for his civic and community involvement. He and his wife Farrah live in Telfair with their son Jaiden. Gandhi is a graduate of Clements High School and reHimesh Gandhi. ceived a Bachelor of Business Administration from Houston Baptist University and a Juris Doctor degree from South Texas College of Law. Gandhi is an attorney and partner with the law firm Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey PC and is also board certified in commercial real estate by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. His duties on council have included service on the Sugar Land Development Corporation, Economic Development Committee, Finance/Audit Committee, Intergovernmental Relations Committee and on the Smart Finance Centre at Sugar Land’s planning task force. In the local community, Himesh serves as a board member for both the Arc of Texas and The Arc of Fort Bend County. Gandhi has also been active with the Exchange Club of Sugar Land and has served as past legal counsel for the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce and Fort Bend Global Initiative. Gandhi recently was named a recipient of the Houston Business Journal’s 40 under 40 awards. For more information, visit www.HGSugarLand.com.

Fort Bend Cares’ 3rd Annual Doggone Fun Run Photo by Robbin Mallett.

Join Leader of the Pack sponsors Michelob Ultra/Silver Eagle Distributors and Sunoco Logistics, along with Fort Bend Cares spokesdog Freya, for the 3rd Annual Doggone Fun Run on Saturday, April 16th at 8 am at Memorial Park in Sugar Land. Spokesdog Freya was adopted from Sugar Land Animal Services in September 2013 by Sarah and Russell Black. She is a four-year-old shelter mutt who may have some Fort Bend Cares spokesdog Freya Staffordshire terrier or boxer and her owner Sarah Black. in her DNA. Although fearful when she first came to live with the Blacks, Freya is now a social butterfly and was recently described as “enthusiastically loving,” so if you see her at the Doggone Fun Run, prepare to be hugged! Freya had to overcome some challenges before she was adopted, and she loves to run, so she is “pawsitively” proud to TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

help spread the word about Fort Bend Cares Doggone Fun Run to raise funds to support non-profit organizations that serve disadvantaged children in Fort Bend County. To show support of our four-legged friends as well, Fort Bend Cares will donate a portion of proceeds from this year’s event to Fort Bend Pets Alive! The Doggone Fun Run includes a competitive chip timed 5K Run without dogs and a 5K Run and a one-mile Fun Run/Walk with or without dogs, so there is something for every person and pup! There will be medals for age group winners of the competitive 5K Run along with prizes for winners of the “canine costume competition.” Come early and stay late to peruse vendor booths, enjoy live music, watch the Unstoppable K9’s perform and more. Registration through April 14th is $30 per person or $70 for a family of three or more. Fees increase to $40 and $90 respectively for late registration on April 15th and 16th. Event swag includes a t-shirt and dog bandana while supplies last. Dog owners must ensure canine participants have a current rabies vaccine and are on a non-retractable leash. Visit www.fortbendcares.org, email info@fortbendcares.org or call 832-819-2005 for event registration, more information or to become a sponsor. .com • March 2016

MEDICAL FOCUS

According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death for both men and women in the United States. “Because of screening tests, colorectal cancer can be caught early, increasing the survival rate for those diagnosed with the disease,” said Dr. Ali Mahmood, board certified colorectal surgeon at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. Colorectal cancer refers to cancer of the colon or rectum. While the exact cause is unknown, Mahmood cited the following as risk factors that may increase a person’s chance of developing the disease: • Age – The odds of developing colorectal cancer increase after age 50. Over 90 percent of people diagnosed with colorectal cancer are age 50 and older. • Family History – Having close relatives who have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer increases the risk; therefore, earlier and more frequent screenings may be recommended by your physician. • Personal History of Colorectal Polyps or Colorectal Cancer – A polyp is a growth that develops on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Some polyps

Free Colorectal Cancer Awareness Seminar and Screening Kit

Nasrullah Manji, MD. and Ali Mahmood, MD.

may become cancerous. If you’ve been diagnosed with colorectal cancer in the past, the disease may reoccur. • Lifestyle – Other risk factors include unhealthy eating, lack of exercise, smoking and bowel disorders such as Crohn’s disease. “Although some risk factors like age and family history cannot be avoided, other factors are within your control,” said Dr. Nasrullah Manji, board certified gastroenterologist on staff at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “Choosing to follow a healthy lifestyle may help lower your risk of developing colorectal cancer.” Mahmood warned, “Colorectal cancer usually does not present symptoms in its earliest stages.” But, he added,

as the cancer progresses, the following symptoms may develop: • Irregular bowel habits, including constipation and diarrhea • A constant feeling that you need to have a bowel movement • Rectal bleeding or bloody stools • Anemia • Frequent stomach pains or cramps If you or a loved one exhibits any of these symptoms or is at risk for developing the disease, consult a physician about being screened for colorectal cancer. Early screenings can save lives. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Mahmood, Dr. Manji or another physician on staff at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, call 281-274-7500.

Free Colorectal Cancer Seminar and Screening Kit Join Dr. Ali Mahmood and Dr. Nasrullah Manji on Thursday, March 31st at 6 pm at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Conference Center to learn more about colorectal cancer and take home a free colorectal cancer screening kit. Registration is required. Register online at houstonmethodist.org/ events or call 281-274-7500.

Houston Methodist Primary Care Group Welcomes Vandana Khera, MD Houston Methodist Primary Care Group is pleased to welcome internal medicine physician Dr. Vandana Khera to the new Riverstone location. Khera joins Dr. Dr. Vandana Khera. Deepshika Sharda at the practice located at 18717 South University Boulevard, Suite 105, where they will continue to provide quality primary care to patients in the Sugar Land and Missouri City communities.

Khera earned her medical degree at Government Medical College in Patiala, India before completing both her internship and internal medicine residency at Roger Williams Medical Center in Providence, Rhode Island. She is board certified in internal medicine, treating a variety of acute and chronic conditions with special interests in geriatrics and endocrinology. In addition to English, Khera speaks Hindi and Punjabi. Prior to joining Houston Methodist Primary Care Group, Khera practiced outpatient medicine at a physician led organization in Norwood, Massachufort bend

magazine • March 2016

setts, where she collaborated with a multidisciplinary team to meet the health care needs of her patients. “I consider it an honor to be joining Houston Methodist Primary Care Group,” Khera said. “And I am fortunate that my patients trust me with their most valuable asset – their health. My purpose is to care for my patients’ physical and mental well-being by helping them achieve health goals through preventive care.” To schedule an appointment with Dr. Khera, visit houstonmethodist.org/pcg or call 713-394-MPCG (6724).

OUT & ABOUT

Matt Jackson, executive director of Hope For Three, presented the Caring Friends Award to Clements High School. Principal David Yaffie crowned student Jim Li, who is on the autism spectrum, as Homecoming King. Hope For Three, Clements High School and Jimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family honored him for being awesome!

IN THE HEART

OF THE BEND

Matt Jackson, Jim and his mother Youfeng Li and David Yaffie.

Fort Bend Cares thanked sponsors of the 11th Annual Road Trip Fundraiser at a sponsor party underwritten by The Johnson Development Corp. Guests enjoyed beverages and appetizers at the home of Scott and Juliet Breeze.

Bob and Gail McClendon with Greg Haralson.

Karen and Chip Nemesi.

Scott and Juliette Breeze.

Walt and Sonja White.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com â&#x20AC;˘ March 2016

Kate and Justin Flint.

The Fort Bend Family YMCA celebrated at their Annual Campaign Kickoff at Anson Aviation in Sugar Land. Friends and supporters learned more about how the Fort Bend Family YMCA is strengthening the community through their work in academic achievement, chronic disease prevention and water safety.

Charlie Myer and Leslie Wood.

Pam Filip, Laura LaVigne and Karl Schleicher.

Brian Haines, Walter Gerlach and James Patterson.

Glenn and Stella Gaskin.

Sandy Denton and George Hernandez.

Elvin Bethea and Ed Biles.

Clements High School seniors Jonathan Chang and Angela Lin were each awarded a $20,000 scholarship from the H&R Block Budget Challenge – an interactive simulation that teaches teens how to manage the financial life of an adult – in a special check presentation. Their business education teacher Greg Eppes also received a $2,500 grant for his classroom’s participation in the program.

Congratulations to Angela Lin, Greg Eppes and Jonathan Chang.

Photo by Bob Levey.

The Sienna Plantation Associations recently took home three awards at the Community Associations Institute Greater Houston Chapter’s inaugural awards gala, including Community of the Year in the 3,000-plus units category.

Burke Randolph and Sharon Hilburn.

Sugar Land resident and The Awty International School student Adela DePavia won second place in the Joe Foss Institute’s (JFI) 2015 Donna W. Foss Scholarship Essay Contest for her submission titled United for its compelling execution of the contest’s theme, A Proud American: What it Means to Me. DePavia’s essay illustrated the revelation of seeing America, often pulled apart by its vast amounts of diversities, come together in the face of terror and tragedy. For winning second place out of over 1,200 essay entries, DePavia will receive $2,500 from JFI to the accredited United States college or university of her choice.

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magazine • March 2016

Adela DePavia.

OUT & ABOUT

Suburban Sugar Land Women (SSLW) provides onsite services and resources to Fort Bend women and their children in transition through SSLW Cares. During a recent service project, the group provided big smiles, warm hugs, beautiful decorations, delicious food and generous gifts to those in need. It was an amazing experience for everyone involved.

SSLW’s Mable Scott Austin, Virginia Valentine and June Peggs.

IN THE HEART

OF THE BEND The Fort Bend County Museum Association recently appointed several new members to its Board of Trustees. Congratulations and thank you for your service!

Debra Greenwood-Sharp, Mary Jane Kocurek, Keely Knipling, Jennifer Chiang and Tim Kaminiski. Brett Beach and the Chris Bronsell for Constable Campaign presented a fabulous evening of food, fun and a performance by The Spazmatics at the Old Trading Post in January. Photos by Bill Robertson.

Jack Molho, Chris Bronsell and Scott Schultz.

Ty Bronsell and Kasey Bronsell.

The patients of the Skilled Nursing Unit at OakBend Medical Center recently received a special delivery of handmade beanies and blankets from volunteers of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church’s Crochet Club. “We are very thankful we can provide some warmth to our patients by their thoughtful efforts,” said Dee Holmes, Skilled Nursing coordinator.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

John Zerwas.

Robert Rosenbaum, Jr., Hattie Mae Bailey, Dee Holmes, Monica Estelle, Enedina Estrada, Kelly Jackson and Simon Garcia.

.com • March 2016

Spaghetti Di Mare.

Chicken Milanese.

By Alisa Murray

Russo’s New York Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen 10350 Hwy 6, Suite G Missouri City, TX 77459 281-431-6637

Russo’s New York Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen

t is always nice to find a spot where almost every time you walk through the door you run into a friend. Russo’s Italian Kitchen is such a place. There have been many Sundays after church or on a weekday afternoon when I drop in and not only always find something perfectly prepared and satisfying, but also warm and friendly faces to socialize with while dinning. Allyson Huston, owner of our local Russo’s New York Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen in Missouri City, offers the traditional fares that are designed for menus for the franchise by Anthony Russo, who is also a family friend. But, Huston also boasts two head chefs trained both for over 15 years in the industry and one with the very prestigious Le Cordon Bleu certification. They are a small business that also supports our community through various organizations, and they shop fresh locally to support other small farm to market businesses. Together, the trio creates off-menu specials and dining experiences that are some of Missouri City’s little secrets. Huston’s Chicken Milanese is a breaded chicken breast that is panseared with capers, fresh Roma tomatoes, Gorgonzola cheese, drizzled with her white wine lemon garlic sauce and finished on a bed of fresh arugula. The Harlem Beet Salad with sautéed shrimp, coal-fired beets, Gorgonzola cheese, romaine lettuce, cucum-

bers, kalamata olives, fresh Roma tomatoes and pistachios, drizzled with pomegranate vinaigrette dressing is one of Brian’s favorites. The salad is a complete meal, and for those of you who have people in your lives who are reluctant to eat “green,” this one is something to try! Huston’s Spaghetti Di Mare consists of fresh shrimp, clams, mussels and calamari, swirled together in a spicy Pinot Grigio marinara sauce on a bed of spaghetti. If you are a seafood lover like me, then this is the dish for you! My favorite, however, is her Spinach and Artichoke Napoletana Pizza topped with spicy Italian sausage, fresh spinach, artichoke hearts, mozzarella cheese and roasted garlic in a creamy Alfredo sauce. I ask for her to add extra fennel seeds, because that’s the way I like it.

The Chocolate Truffle Cake.

There are always lots of wonderful sweets to choose from, and when it comes to Italian desserts, it’s hard not to want to try them all! James Edward fort bend

magazine • March 2016

Allyson Huston and Alisa Murray.

loves the Chocolate Bombs and Cannolis, Victoria Ann loves the Cheesecake and Tiramisu, and Brian loves the featured cake: The Chocolate Truffle Cake. It is a real showstopper with multiple layers of dark chocolate cake sandwiched with chocolate truffle icing. I asked Huston what sets the restaurant apart. “Our signature Russo’s formula – the freshest, premium ingredients, our time-tested traditional family recipes, the sense of Old World charm and hospitality – but here in a more convivial setting and with a gourmet edge,” she said. “We make every effort to recreate this ristorante feeling of Italian cooking in its natural environment, with time-tested recipes, garden-fresh vegetables, pasta that isn’t dried and cheeses that aren’t processed.” When I asked her what she loved the most about being a restaurateur, she said what I could already see every time I walk through her door. “My guests,” she said with a pause. “Watching our guests sit down with their family and friends enjoying the food we have prepared – that is what we are here for.” Being there is just like being at home. Bon appétit!

March 2016 Winner “Bee Escapes Hungry Cactus Flower” By Mike Trivisonno Congratulations Mike, you’ve earned a $50 gift certificate to a restaurant!

ENTER TO WIN Fort Bend Focus Magazine is looking for great amateur photos. Think you have a great shot? Any subject matter will be considered, black and white or color, special effects and/or edited are not necessary. A WINNER EVERY MONTH Each month’s winner receives a $50 gift certificate to a restaurant and the winning photo will be published in our magazine. To claim your prize, call 281-690-4242. Runner-up photos may be published in our “Readers’ Photo Album.”

Please make sure to send some basic information about every photo you submit such as: who, where, when, a title, your name and daytime phone number. By submitting an entry, the photographer gives 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 HIGH RESOLUTION at least 300 dpi at actual size of at least 4” x 6”.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • March 2016

Photos from www.littlebrowniebakers.com/clipart/cookies

By Amy Gross

Girl Scout Cookies and Wine:

Two of My Favorite Things!

e’re wrapping up Girl Scout cookie time, and I know you have a few boxes just ready to be enjoyed. I bet you have a few bottles of wine also ready to be enjoyed. So, what should you do? Enjoy them together, of course! Just recently I pulled together a few friends, opened a few boxes of Girl Scout cookies and, of course, opened a few bottles of wine. We mixed and matched and compared our favorite combinations. After lots of hard work and tasting, here’s what we found to be our favorite combinations. With the Thin Mints, we liked Shiraz and Syrah the best. A few super reasonably priced ones to try are Rosemount Estate Shiraz, the Rosenbaum Cellar’s Vintner’s Cuvee Syrah and the Layer Cake Shiraz from Australia. Something about that hint of spice goes beautifully with the mint. Perfect! For the Thanks-a-Lots and Trefoils, the Pinot Noir was the biggest hit. Try Erath Pinot Noir from Oregon or the Rodney Strong Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir from California. A crowd favorite was the Peanut Butter Patties and Old Vine Zinfandel. Seriously, I think those were made to go together. Try the Renwood Old Vine Zinfandel or the Bogle Old Vine Zinfandel. You won’t be sorry – except

I’m a fan of Rieslings, and matched with the Peanut Butter Sandwiches, they do not disappoint. The Chateau St. Michelle Riesling is usually easy to find and is a fun pairing. You could also try the Hogue Cellars Riesling. Both are from the Columbia Valley in Washington. The real fun of the get-together was mixing, matching and tasting. If you want to play it safe, we’ve done the work for you with our suggested pairings, but I challenge you to open a few boxes, then pull a few wines off your shelf and give it a go with some friends. With Girl Scout cookies and with wine, you’re bound to enjoy! Cheers, friends!

after you devour too many! For the Lemonades, try some Chardonnay. If you want to feel like you are splurging on wine without spending to much, go for the Domaines Barons de Rothschild Lafite Los Vascos Chardonnay from Chile. You could also stay closer to home but spend a bit more on the Rombauer Chardonnay from California. Either one would be a good match.

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magazine • March 2016

EVENTS This bi-monthly program focuses on giving senior citizens insight into a variety of topics. This month, guest speaker Sandra Harrell will give a presentation on long-term care at Missouri City’s Recreation and Tennis Center, located at 2701 Cypress Point Drive. During this free seminar, guests will be educated about long-term care, including some options to prepare and protect their financial future. To RSVP, call 281-403-8637.

The First Colony Branch Library will present a free, two-part workshop at 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land. Different topics will be discussed each night. Learn tips on writing a better resumé, researching prospective employers, interviewing and non-verbal skills, making a great first impression, networking and much more. By developing an organized plan of action, the applicant will experience a more efficient job hunt with an increased chance of success. Call 281-238-2800.

March 5th, 8 am – 1 pm Food and Clothes Collection Second Mile will be collecting non-perishable food and clothes for families in Fort Bend County. Community members are invited to drop off items at the donation truck in Houston’s First Baptist Church Sienna Campus parking lot, located at 4309 Sienna Parkway in Missouri City. This effort to care for the needy is sponsored by Houston’s First Baptist Church Sienna Campus. Call 281-261-9199, extension 213 or e-mail volunteer@secondmile.org.

March 5th, 10:30 am Get Your Vegetable Garden Growing Seasoned gardeners, as well as beginning gardeners who might be considering starting a vegetable garden for the first time, are invited to attend the next program in Sienna Branch Library’s Bountiful Garden Series at 8411 Sienna Springs Boulevard in Missouri City. A Fort Bend County Master Gardener will provide an overview of spring vegetable gardening. Learn how to plan the layout of your garden for optimal sun, shade and drainage. Call 281-238-2900.

March 5th, 2 pm Police Officer Story Time

Photo by Mira Pavlakovic

Kids of all ages are invited to come meet police officers and hear their stories at the Sugar Land Library, located at 550 Eldridge Road. There will also be arts and crafts, and kids can view a real patrol vehicle. Visit www.fortbend.lib.tx.us or call 281-238-2140.

Photo by Ken Teegardin from seniorliving.org

March 7th and 8th, 5:30 – 8:30 pm Job Search Survival Tips

Photo by Elaine Tan

March 2nd, 2 pm Afternoon with an Expert

March 7th, 7 pm Retirement Planning Tips The University Branch Library will present an introductory financial planning program in Meeting Room 1 of the library, located at 14010 University Boulevard in Sugar Land. Mike Sofia will provide a basic overview of money management so that people understand how to manage their finances better and plan for retirement with the different available investment options. Call 281-633-5100.

Presented By:

March 5th, 9 am – Noon Edible Earth Fest Guests of all ages are invited to enjoy a morning of free nature activities at Missouri City’s Edible Arbor Trail. The family-friendly event is hosted by Missouri City Green in partnership with Missouri City Parks and Recreation and the Mayor’s Youth Commission. Parking is available at the YMCA at 4433 Cartwright Road and Southminister Presbyterian Church at 4200 Cartwright Road. E-mail info@missouricitygreen.org.

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECH Water Treatment Specialists

Every Saturday, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, rain or shine

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

198 Kempner St. at Imperial Sugar Land

.com • March 2016

EVENTS Photo from chrishirsch.com

March 19th, 10:30 am Get Tips on Basic Bicycle Maintenance Learn about steps you can take at home to ensure the safety and longevity of your family’s bicycles at Get Your Wheels Rolling with Bicycle Maintenance at the Sienna Branch Library, located at 8411 Sienna Springs Boulevard in Missouri City. Michael Donnelly will talk about general bicycle maintenance, including proper tire inflation, flat-tire replacement, cleaning and basic adjustments that can be completed at home. Call 281-238-2900.

March 11th, 6 pm Eggpalooza Join the fun at Community Park, located at 1700 Glenn Lakes Lane in Missouri City, for a free, hoppin’ good time of egg dashes and arts and crafts! Dashes will be divided by age groups and held on the Little League fields throughout the evening. Children are encouraged to bring their own Easter baskets to participate in the egg dashes. Crafts will include sand art, wax hands, face painting, bead art and more! Visit www.missouricitytx.gov or call 281-403-8637.

March 19th EGGStravaganza Egg Hunt Hop on over to Eldridge Park, located at 2511 Eldridge Road in Sugar Land, and enjoy a wide variety of free activities at the City of Sugar Land’s 32nd Annual EGGStravaganza. Children can enjoy activities such as Egg Scrambles, carnival games, a petting zoo, a foam pit and even a Hay Hop. The first 200 families had the opportunity to take professional pictures with the Easter bunny. Call 281-275-2825 or e-mail bbachemin@sugarlandtx.gov.

March 12th, 10 am Historic Walking Tours

Do you love food or have a love of cooking? Whether you are just starting out as a cook or would love to share your cooking experience, there is something for everyone at the University Branch Library’s Culinary Book Club, located at 14010 University Boulevard in Sugar Land. This month’s theme is mysterious “M” recipes. Call 281-633-5160 or e-mail krussell@fortbend.lib.tx.us.

Fort Bend County Libraries will present a special program at the University Branch Library, located at 14010 University Boulevard in Sugar Land. Sharon Hanzik, a park ranger at Brazos Bend State Park, will talk about the wide variety of birds that can be found in the Gulf Coast area and how to identify them by their markings, behaviors and habitats. Call 281-633-5100.

SUGAR LAND TOWN SQUARE

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

www.sugarlandtownsquare.com Call 281.313.SLTS Kindermusik with Sessions Music Thursday, March 3rd 9 – 10 am

Movie Under the Moon Saturday, March 12th 7:30 – 9:30 pm

The Sugar Land Heritage Foundation conducts a historic walking tour of Old Sugar Land on the second Saturday of each month beginning at the museum, located at 198 Kempner Street. The walk lasts approximately 1.5 hours, covering about 1.5 miles. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 to 18. Children under 12 are free. To make a reservation or schedule a private tour, contact slheritage@slheritage.org or call the office at 281-494-0261.

March 16th, 1:30 – 3 pm Culinary Book Club

March 29th, 10:30 am For the Birds: Learning the Basics of Bird-Watching

Texas Miss Amazing Pageant Saturday, March 19th 1:45 – 5 pm

St. Paddy’s Day Half Marathon Sunday, March 20th 7:15 – 10:15 am

Fort Bend Pets Alive Shelter Pet Expo

March 24th, 9 am Breakfast and Bingo

Saturday, March 26th 11 am – 2 pm

Senior residents ages 50 and over are invited to come fellowship with peers, enjoy breakfast and play friendly rounds of bingo for great prizes at Missouri City’s Recreation and Tennis Center, located at 2701 Cypress Point Drive. Breakfast will be available from 9 to 9:30 am, and bingo rounds will follow. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the door. Call 281-403-8637 or visit www.missouricitytx.gov.

fort bend

magazine • March 2016

Sugar Land Jr. Superstar Auditions Wednesday, March 30th 5:30 – 7:30 pm

SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS E-mail events@absolutelyfocusmedia.com. Include the event date, time, location and a short description of the event.

By Alisa Murray www.AlisaMurray.com Nationally recognized portrait artist and awardwinning columnist.

Living the Sweet Life:

March Is National Reading Month

hat’s on your nightside table? I always have several books I am working on. Right now, it’s Eve by WM. Paul Young, Euphoria by Lily King and Furiously Happy by Jenny Lawson. I have always loved books and reading because it is fun, but the bottom line is it makes us smarter! March is National Reading Month, and it’s important to not only grab a great book and read, but to also share those great works that have moved us with others so they can experience it for themselves. Today, the book industry has changed so much as we go toward a more digital world that there’s been talk of a day when libraries will shut down and bookstores will be a thing of the past. I sure hope not! One positive thing that has really changed in the publishing world is the ability for anyone to write and publish a book. With solid content and a few clicks, one can be an author who offers free e-books and print on demand. With that said, I have had a lot of friends who have done just that. Rick Gillis has published five books with his latest Promote! Likewise, Minerva Pérez and Damali Keith, both wellknown faces in our homes for years, have taken their talents as journalists to write books and share their experiences. Pérez’s I Gotta Story has been so successful that as she signs and tours, she is currently Promote! by Rick Gillis. working on a second body of work entitled More Stories. Keith’s A Great Day to Live is a wild journey through domestic abuse and raises awareness to a problem often overlooked and left to fix itself. Too often, women die at the hands of those they think love them. It probably won’t surprise you to learn that, years ago, I hired an agent I Gotta Story: My 30 and actually sent out countless queYears in TV News by Minerva Pérez. ries pitching a children’s book col-

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

lection and a cartoon series. Both are still neatly compiled in my drawers unpublished as I don’t take rejection very well and wasn’t willing to self publish because the industry was so sketchy. Today though, things are very different. I have been working on several books for a while now, and the first will come out this fall. I’ll go ahead and answer the question, A Great Day to Live “What’s the title?” with a resounding and confident, “I’m not sure by Damali Keith. yet.” When I asked Keith about the title of her next book, she smiled and said Accepting Her Life. Not me though. I am winding through some pretty traumatic stuff of my childhood, and writing those pages are like peeling back an onion and traveling through layers of my life. I know it will come to me. I can only liken it to those new parents who come see me for their maternity portraits. I ask them, “What are you naming the baby?” Some know immediately, and others contemplate and say things like, “We are waiting to meet him or her.” I know that like birthing a baby – which by the way is what this is starting to feel like – a title will come in time. It’s exciting that we are now in an age where we all can be authors. Each of us has stories to tell, and some have dreams that one day they could have careers like Stephen King or J.K. Rowling. Like David Sedaris, who is one of if not my favorite, along with Fannie Flagg, those books coming out of us all are little pieces of our souls. What makes for great reading is when writers are passionate about what they are trying to say. I hope that each of you will find a great book for your nightside table this month. If the idea of becoming an author has ever been a fleeting fantasy, I hope that this month you’ll not only be reading, but you’ll start writing too! Take Care of YOU!

.com • March 2016