October 2015 - Fort Bend Focus Magazine - People • Places • Happenings

OCTOBER 2015

Houston Methodist Sugar Land's Team Approach to Breast Cancer Care

Meet the

GEMS of

Fort Bend FOCUS ON THE CURE Spooktacular HALLOWEEN

Tips & Treats

Women’s Center The Women’s Center at CHI St. Luke’s Health–Sugar Land Hospital offers compassionate, high- quality comprehensive care to women at every stage of life in one convenient location.

Our radiology technicians are trained to perform exams such as mammograms, ultrasounds, and breast MRIs, while our radiologists are trained to interpret them. From preventative screenings to specialized care, our team of physicians are experts in helping women understand their conditions and treatment options.

Special Services for Breast Cancer Detection 3-D Tomosynthesis is similar to a traditional digital mammogram, but uses less breast compression to get results.

The breast is positioned and compressed in the same way as for a mammogram, but the X-ray tube moves in a circular arc around the breast to create a 3-dimensional image of the breast. A 3-D tomosynthesis may be performed in conjunction with a traditional digital mammogram.

MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, is a supplemental tool to detect and stage breast cancer, as well as evaluate abnormalities detected by a mammography and/or breast ultrasound. The technology also is beneficial to high-risk patients with dense breast tissue. MRIs can: • Determine extent of tumor • Search for multiple tumors prior to breast conservation surgery • Determine breast implant integrity • Determine spread of cancer beyond the surgical site after a breast biopsy or lumpectomy • Screen women at high risks for breast cancer Breast Ultrasound is primarily used to help identify and diagnose breast abnormalities by showing all areas of the breast, including problem areas found during a mammogram or physical exam. Ultrasounds also help determine if a potential breast abnormality, such as a lump, is either a benign cyst (fluid-filled) or a solid mass.

Schedule a Mammogram Today!

Take 2 Minutes to make an Mammogram appointment online at ApptASAP.org, or call 281.637.7001.

Facts About Breast Cancer

18

3 or 4 out of every 100 women who are 60 years old today will get breast cancer by the

in

(12 percent) women in the US will develop invasive breast cancer during their lifetime1.

2

age of

70

Breast cancer is the

1

American Cancer Society

2

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

3

National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.

nd

leading cause of cancer death in women, exceeded only by lung cancer.1

2

When breast cancer is detected early, at a localized stage, the five-year survival rate is

98

%

3

Breast Self-Exams • In the shower. With your fingers, move around your breasts in a circular pattern from the outside to the center. Check for any lumps, thickening, or hardening knots.

• In front of a mirror. Look for any changes in the contour, any swelling, or dimpling of the skin, or changes in the nipples. Next, rest your palms on your hips and press firmly to flex your chest muscles.

Look for any dimpling, puckering, or changes, particularly on one side.

• Lying down. Place a pillow under your right shoulder and your right arm behind your head. Move your fingers gently in small circular motions for any abnormalities in your breasts and armpits.

Squeeze your nipples to check for discharge and lumps. If you discover a lump, contact your physician immediately.

Source: National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.

It’s Real: Men & Breast Cancer Breast Cancer Awareness Month is usually associated with women; however, men are also susceptible to the disease. Breast cancer in men is similar to women—a malignant tumor grows in the cells of the breast and gradually invades the surrounding tissues. Men who are diagnosed with breast cancer are often at higher stages than women, since the awareness level is much lower among men.

See a physician immediately if you experience the following: • Lump or hard knot under or near the nipple, usually painless.

• Change in size or shape of breast • Itchy, scaly or sore rash on nipple • Dimpling, puckering or redness of skin of the breast • Nipple discharge

It’s easy...

Schedule Your Mammogram Online Today.

ApptASAP.org Contact Us

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To request a referral to one of our physicians, call our Physician Referral Team at 832.355.3627.

Compounding Corner Pharmacy, Inc. ®

SINCE 2004

Veterinary Compounded Medications ACCREDITED: The Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board (PCAB) accreditation is the highest attainable accreditation in compounding pharmacy. Make no mistake, they are the highest standards in the nation and the most difficult to achieve. Compounding Corner Pharmacy, Inc.® is the ONLY PCAB-Accredited pharmacy in Fort Bend County.

ENDORSED: United States Pharmacopeia (USP) <795> and <797> are the actual standards that compounding pharmacies are held to. PCAB is endorsed by USP, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and more than a dozen other professional organizations.

PROCESS VALIDATED:

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.

MEDICATION RESULTS

LOT #

REPORTED

MEASURED

POTENCY

Gabapentin (Vet) Suspension 35mg/mL Methimazole 50mg/mL Itraconazole (Triple Fish) 50mg/mL Potassium Bromide 400mg Capsule

07072015@17 07292015@7 07292015@8 08242015@14

35mg/mL 50mg/mL 50mg/mL 400mg

36.8mg/mL 51.5mg/mL 53.5mg/mL 404mg

105% 103% 107% 101%

USP <795> states: “...compound preparations are to be prepared to ensure that each preparation shall contain not less than 90% and not more than 110% of the theoretically calculated and labeled quantity of an active ingredient...”. Potency determinations follow USP <621> HPLC, USP <851> Spectophotometry, and specific monograph testing procedures.

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Shannon Maguadog, Pharm.D.

Pets are family. Whether dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, ferrets, fish, iguanas or exotic species, we take medication seriously. We’re really good at what we do. Give us a call: 281-494-7777

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1730 Williams Trace Blvd, Ste K, Sugar Land, TX 77478 fort bend

magazine • October 2015

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.com • October 2015

2

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TOMOSYNTHESIS

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Book your time online for a 3-D mammogram, the latest in early breast cancer detection.

Breast tomosynthesis is an innovative, FDA-approved digital technology that helps your physician detect smaller tumors sooner – at the earliest stages of breast cancer. The 3-D imaging capability of tomosynthesis enables radiologists to see “inside” the breast, resulting in improved accuracy in screening for and pinpointing lesions.

For the location nearest you, visit memorialhermann.org/schedulenow

COVER STORY OCTOBER 2015

F E AT U R E S 28 THE GEMS OF FORT BEND: MEET THREE GENEROUS, ENTHUSIASTIC MEN SERVING

These men have dedicated their time to volunteer and give back to the community, and each one will be honored at a premier event featuring dinner, live entertainment and a “chips for charity” casino benefiting the Fort Bend Family YMCA.

48 WHEN WORRY BECOMES WORRISOME:

The Difference Between Normal Stress and Anxiety Disorders

53 FOCUS ON THE CURE

Educate yourself and your loved ones about breast cancer awareness and detection.

69 absolutely! PRETTY IN PINK

See what the community is offering to support breast cancer awareness.

COLUMNS

Breast cancer survivor Karol Behne ringing the bell celebrating the conclusion of her chemotherapy treatments.

Photo by Nesossi Studios.

20 FOCUS ON FINANCE Summertime Blues

14 KAROL BEHNE’S BREAST CANCER EXPERIENCE: Turning a Negative into a Positive Karol Behne’s battle against breast cancer began in December 2014 after a life changing diagnosis.

But thanks to the physicians and staff at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, Behne is now a breast cancer survivor, who along with her husband Henry, is raising awareness and money for people with breast cancer. The team approach employed by the program’s physicians and staff ensures that every patient receives the best possible care and treatment in a comforting, compassionate manner.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • October 2015

24 LEGAL FOCUS

10 Reasons Your Estate Plan Needs to be Revised

46 HIGH SCHOOL HOT SHOT Meet Aman Patel

70 SUPPORTING THOSE AFFECTED

BY DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

For 35 years, Fort Bend Women’s Center has reached across socioeconomic, religious and educational backgrounds to bring healing and hope to victims of domestic and sexual violence.

96 LIVING THE SWEET LIFE: Halloween Portraits

6

CONTRIBUTORS

OCTOBER 2015

|

VOLUME 11

|

Will Hardee Hardee Investment Group Page 20

NUMBER 12 20

absolutely!

AUTO REVIEW 22 2016 FORD FUSION

NEWSWORTHY 72 12TH ANNUAL GULF COAST

International Dragon Boat Regatta

73 FORT BEND COUNTY PANHELLENIC ALUMNAE

Announces Events for the Year

76 THE FORT BEND JUNIOR SERVICE LEAGUE AND SPONSORS Partner for 15th Annual Sugar Plum Market

88 PARKS YOUTH RANCH

Announces Cowboy Up 2015

FORT BEND RESIDENT CHRONICLES THE INTEGRATION OF ATHLETICS At the University of Houston in the 1960s

NEW TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD

Steve Kursar Auto Enthusiast Page 22

MEDICAL & BUSINESS 78 SUGAR LAND COUNCIL MEMBER HARISH JAJOO

22

Announces Mayoral Campaign

86 MEDICAL FOCUS

24

T. Aaron Dobbs Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey P.C. Page 24 Patti Parish-Kaminski absolutely! focus media Page 30

absolutely!

DELICIOUS

30

91 THE ARTIST’S PALATE

Joan Frances Contributor Page 46

Brandani’s Restaurant & Wine Bar

46

92 HOW TO HOST

Kerstin Brown TMS Serenity Center Page 48

A Mad Scientist Halloween Party

IN EVERY ISSUE

48 Zeenat Kassam Mitha Cultural Correspondent Page 70

10 EXCLAMATION POINTS! 50 SEEN ON THE SCENE

70

80 AMATEUR PHOTO CONTEST 82 OUT & ABOUT IN THE

HEART OF THE BEND

Alisa Murray Alisa Murray Photography Pages 91 & 96

91

94 COMMUNITY EVENTS

75 BLAZE FAST FIRE’D PIZZA

Brings Artisanal Eats to Sugar Land

ON THE COVER: Jorge Darcourt, MD; Clive Shkedy, MD; Sandra Templeton, MD and Karol Behne.

Photo by Nesossi Studios.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • October 2015

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Ask These 10 Questions To Make Sure Your Dentist Stacks Up 1

6

2 7 3

8 4 9 5 10

Tim Cashion, DDS

Teresa Cody, DDS

mydentist@candcdental.com A $25.00 flat fee for an x-ray & consultation A $74.00 value Low cost way to find out whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wrong (Does not include cleaning)

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Call us now!

281-377-3402

EXCLAMATION POINTS! THE INSIDE SCOOP STRAIGHT FROM THE TOP Publisher/Editor-in-Chief, PATTI PARISH-KAMINSKI

Vol. 11 No. 12 October 2015

Once Upon a Time . . .

Stay focused,

Patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Photo by Alisa Murray.

October is my absolute favorite month out of the year, and one thing that I look forward to each October is sharing some personal, poignant stories about outstanding members of our community with our readers. For eight years, we have produced community events – first the JEWELS, now the GEMS – honoring amazing men and women in our community who give. I love getting to know these community servants and sharing their stories. I hope you will join us at GEMS this year benefitting the Fort Bend Family YMCA on Thursday, October 22nd. It’s a GEMS and jeans casino-themed evening, and it’s a tribute honorPatti Parish-Kaminski ing Bob Hebert, Don Kerstetter and Steve Onstad – a fun-filled evening that you won’t want to miss!

Other stories that we share each October are part of our Focus on the Cure Breast Cancer Awareness section. Our cover features Karol Behne’s story and how she and her husband turned a negative into a positive with their racing boat Lucky Draw 777. These two are literally racing for the cure! Read about the amazing Methodist Sugar Land Hospital doctors who took “Team Behne” to the finish line.

And, take a moment to read about early detection and the amazing resources we are fortunate to have in our community. These stories can save lives.

No October issue would be complete without some Halloween stories. We have some “spooktacular” recipes for the trick or treaters, and best of all, check out Living the Sweet Life for the most amazing Halloween transformations! Alisa Murray has a long-standing Halloween tradition called Theatrical Spooktacular where she transforms little ones into their dream characters. In honor of Halloween, Alisa shares some of her amazing portraits from her personal collection.

American poet Muriel Rukeyser said, “The universe is made of stories, not of atoms.” I hope you enjoy our stories as much as we enjoy bringing them to you.

4655 TECHNIPLEX DR. STE 700 STAFFORD, TX 77477 281-690-4242

WWW.FORTBENDFOCUS.COM

PUBLISHER E D I T O R- I N - C H I E F 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 April Roseberry WEB DESIGNER Joey Belleza O F F I C E A D M I N I S T R AT O R Adrienne Boring PHOTOGRAPHER Nesossi Studios CONTRIBUTORS Kerstin Brown T. Aaron Dobbs Joan Frances Will Hardee Steve Kursar Zeenat Kassam Mitha Alisa Murray INTERN Santiago Ceballos

www.FortBendFocus.com Facebook.com/FortBendFocus

INQUIRIES 281-690-4242

READER FEEDBACK

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

Dear Patti, On behalf of Fort Bend Pets Alive!, thank you for publishing an article about our organization in your July 2015 issue of Fort Bend Focus.

The public exposure greatly helps us in our mission of increasing positive outcomes for companion animals in our county and city shelters.

Again, thank you for supporting our organization and the animals in our county who so need it!

Best, Cynthia Castaldo-Walsh Director, Fort Bend Pets Alive!

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • October 2015

10

Published by

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

Fort Bend FocusTM Magazine is published by absolutely! focus media, 4655 Techniplex Dr., Ste. 700, Stafford, TX 77477. Copyright© 2015 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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.com • October 2015

12

JOHN HARDY

J LOGGINS J

E

W

E

L

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S

1 4 0 1 5 S o u t h w e s t F w y ( C o r n e r o f H w y 5 9 & S u g a r C r e e k ) S u g a r L a n d , T X 7 74 7 8 • P h 2 8 1 . 2 4 2 . 2 9 0 0

Photo by Nesossi Studios.

Breast cancer survivor Karol Behne ringing the bell celebrating the conclusion of her chemotherapy treatments with Radiation Therapists Jennifer Pakeltis, Winston Phillips and Megan Hopkins.

Karol Behne’s

Breast Cancer Experience:

Turning a Negative into a Positive

T

hanks to the physicians and staff at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, Karol Behne is a cancer survivor who can keep working on her “bucket list.”

In November 2014, the recently retired Behne had just finished crossing off the first item on her list when she received word that a recent mammogram required further testing.

She was referred to Dr. Sandra Templeton, a board certified breast surgeon at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, and her battle against breast cancer began.

Behne had long been a believer in annual mammograms because of her family history of breast cancer. Her mother is a breast cancer survivor, diagnosed in 1974 at the age of TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

44. Her treatment consisted of a radical mastectomy – there was no chemotherapy or reconstructive surgery. Today, physicians have a wide range of tools at their disposal. And Behne, fortunately, had the technological resources, as well as a compassionate, knowledgeable staff at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Cancer Center on her side.

As a young retiree – she retired from Lamar Consolidated ISD in July 2014 to care for her elderly mother – Behne had a bucket list of activities she wished to achieve. The initial item on that list was giving her first devotional to the ladies’ Bible study at her church, with a focus on not letting obstacles in your life define you.

“I was very nervous about giving the devotion,” Behne recalled. “Right before Bible study started, I got a phone call from my doctor’s office. I thought, ‘I can’t be distracted by this; I need to focus.’

After the opening devotional, Behne listened to the message from her doctor’s office saying the mammogram showed .com • October 2015

14

A Life Changing Diagnosis At the doctor’s office, Behne noticed the images of different stages of breast cancer and asked, “What stage am I? Dr. Templeton said I was stage 0, and I thought, okay this is doable.” However, once Behne told her about a tender lump under her arm – which she had just discovered over the weekend – everything changed.

Dr. Templeton performed an ultrasound in her office and was concerned with her findings.

Dr. Sandra Templeton She immediately referred Behne to the Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land for a mammogram, an ultrasound of both breast and lymph nodes, and ordered biopsies of both areas.

“They have state-of-the-art technology but more importantly, specialized radiologists who only image and diagnose breast diseases,” said Templeton. “This combination, as well as the team approach to treatment all in one place, make Houston Methodist Sugar Land the ideal facility to receive breast health care.”

“My initial appointment was on Monday, December 1st and biopsies were taken on Tuesday with an appointment scheduled on Friday to discuss test results. When I received a call Thursday evening from Dr. Templeton to tell me that the biopsy of the breast was malignant and that I had two malignant lymph nodes, I was shocked.

“Dr. Templeton wanted me to have this information before I came in the next day so I could formulate any questions. I was so appreciative of this,” Behne said. “The first thing you do is cry.”

Dr. Templeton explained the next day that she also needfort bend

ed additional testing to make sure the cancer had not metastasized or spread. Thankfully, the testing revealed that the cancer had not spread to other parts of her body.

Behne was diagnosed with right breast invasive ductal carcinoma. ER-positive, PR-positive and Her2-negative.

Stage: T2N1. Her treatment plan would consist of six months of chemotherapy, then surgery and six weeks of radiation.

Her first thought was, “This is going to be a long year.”

Team Approach to Care It is not just technology and training that sets the Houston Methodist Sugar Land Oncology Program apart. It’s the team approach employed by the program’s physicians and staff, who work together to ensure that every patient is receiving the best possible care and treatment in a comforting, compassionate manner.

Dr. Jorge Darcourt, board certified in hematology and oncology and medical director of the Infusion Center, began Behne’s chemo treatment on December 22, 2014. “I didn’t want it to start that fast,” said Behne. “My son is in the Air Force, and he was about to be deployed to Iraq. And it was Christmas! However, I trusted Dr. Darcourt’s expertise. He explained what to expect with the chemotherapy and made sure all of my questions were answered. He is an amazing doctor. I never felt that he didn’t have my best interest at heart. Each time I met with him, all my questions – emotional and physical – were answered. I never felt like I was in the dark during this stage of my treatment.”

Photo by Nesossi Studios.

microcalcifications, and she was being referred to Templeton for further testing. She immediately shared the news with her small study group and was so happy that she could immediately be placed on a prayer list.

When Behne picked up the results of her mammogram to take them to her appointment with Dr. Templeton, she looked at her report. Despite the medical terms she didn’t understand, she zeroed in on some key words: “microcalcifications of the breast most likely malignant.”

“It took my breath away,” she said. “I couldn’t call my husband fast enough to tell him what I had read.” The words literally took Behne’s breath away. Her husband Henry did his best to calm her fears over the phone.

Behne’s mother was able to go with her to the initial appointment as support and as a second pair of ears. Her husband and mother remained her strong support system throughout her treatment.

Karol and Henry Behne.

magazine • October 2015

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Dr. Jorge Darcourt

By that spring, Behne was ready to celebrate with her team at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Cancer Center. “On May 26, 2015, I was able to joyfully ring the bell in the

Infusion Center celebrating the end of my chemotherapy treatments. My husband and my mother were there with me to celebrate this huge accomplishment.”

Following chemotherapy, Templeton performed Behne’s breast surgery as the next part of her treatment plan.

Dr. Clive Shkedy, radiation oncologist and medical director of Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Cancer Center, played a pivotal role in Behne’s recovery by helping her with her treatment decision and radiation therapy.

He made sure Behne felt like more than just another case.

“Providing a supportive, nurturing environment and making patients feel at home is very important to their

Low-Dose Radiation 3D Mammograms Now Offered at the

Breast Care Center

T

he Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land is excited to offer the latest in breast cancer screening advances, called low-dose radiation tomosynthesis, or 3D mammography. Utilizing advanced breast tomosynthesis technology improves the ability to detect breast cancer at the earliest stages while using the lowest radiation exposure available in the market.

Tomosynthesis provides clearer images and a more accurate screening than traditional mammograms, especially in women who have dense breast tissue. Radiologists pull images from varying perspectives to examine anything suspicious, reducing callbacks for further imaging.

The Genius™ 3D mammogram at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital requires no additional compression and takes just a few seconds longer than a traditional 2D mammogram.

The low-dose 3D mammogram is the only breast tomosynthesis system approved by the FDA as clinically superior to conventional mammography.

Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land is committed to the fight against breast cancer. In offering 3D mammograms, the Breast Care Center provides the latest and most effective imaging tools for breast cancer screening.

“We are thrilled to offer tomosynthesis to our patients,” said Stephen W. Phillips, M.D., Medical Director of the Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land. “This new techTO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

well-being and eases the stress of going through cancer treatment,” Dr. Shkedy said. “Behne received her treatment on our new TrueBeam radiation system.” Considered the gold standard in radiation treatment, True-

Dr. Clive Shkedy

nology aids in early detection and strengthens the Breast Care Center’s fight against breast cancer.”

The Breast Care Center offers the most comprehensive services in the Fort Bend area, including all-digital mammography, molecular breast imaging, breast ultrasound, breast MRI, ultrasound biopsies, stereotactic biopsies and MRI-guided biopsies, all under one roof. If cancer is detected, the center provides access to clinical trials and the most advanced treatments available, such as chemotherapy, hormone, drug and radiation therapy. Innovative surgical techniques and breast reconstruction surgeries are also available.

Breast Care Center manager and patient navigator Jamie Prinster said, “We are leading the fight against breast cancer. In addition to the state-of-the-art equipment, anyone who comes to Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land can expect to be treated as family. Our highly trained and dedicated team is devoted to walking our patients through each step in their care. Should our patients receive a life changing diagnosis, we have a certified navigation team in place to provide support and education to ensure that we are continuing to provide the highest level of care from diagnosis to survival.”

For more information about this important breast health exam, contact Jamie Prinster, Breast Care Center manager and patient navigator, at 281.275.0586.

To schedule a mammogram at Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land, visit houstonmethodist. org/online-scheduling or call 281.242.PINK (7465). .com • October 2015

16

Beam advances cancer treatments by allowing doctors to deliver powerful cancer treatments with pinpoint, 4D precision.

“Everyone there was fabulous,” Behne said of her experience at the Houston Methodist Sugar Land Cancer Center.

“Over the six-week span, I really built a relationship with the radiation therapists. They treated me like family and gave me so much more than radiation therapy – they helped me maintain a positive attitude during this difficult time.”

On August 26, 2015, Behne completed her treatment and rang the bell with her radiation care team and husband by her side. Behne is a breast cancer survivor and reminds everyone of the importance of their yearly mammogram. The American Cancer Society guidelines for early detection of breast cancer consist of a combination of regular clinical breast examinations for women beginning in their 20s and an annual mammography beginning at age 40.

Supporting Breast Cancer Patients Behne’s husband Henry is a professional dragboat racer with the Southern Dragboat Association and Lucas Dragboat Series. When the Behnes received the breast cancer diagnosis, Henry quickly turned to their Knotty Racing team Facebook page for prayers of healing. Within an hour, there were 200 plus boating families responding to this call for prayer.

This amount of support sparked an idea for Henry to turn a negative into a positive by using his passion of boat racing to raise money for people with breast cancer. He went before the director and board of the Southern Dragboat Association and gained their support. As a result, this year 25 percent of gate prices at all boat races will be given to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

The Behnes had T-shirts made and gave them to their team of doctors – Dr. Sandra Templeton, Dr. Jorge Darcourt and Dr. Clive Shkedy. They also had a pink ribbon painted on their boat and trailer to raise awareness of breast cancer.

“We’ve definitely turned something negative into something positive,” Henry said.

Henry Behne racing in Lucky Draw 777, which features a pink ribbon. fort bend

magazine • October 2015

17

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Summertime Blues

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ummertime is here, and the market is doing its usual swoon.

Long-time investors recognize that May through September usually marks the low for the year while January through April usually marks the high. This summer is no different. In particular, energy related stocks had a very difficult July as oil prices dropped over $10 a barrel. Exxon has dropped over 8% in the last six weeks and 23% since last October. Chevron is off over 14% and 28% respectively. This has been even more evident in the master limited partnerships where the index is down over 12% for six weeks and over 35% since last October.1 In the last three weeks, I’ve listened to over 30 company quarterly conference calls, and for the most part, managements are becoming ultra conserva-

tive in their outlooks as they plan on lower oil prices for longer. However, all is not doom and gloom. Gasoline prices are dropping and might even see $2 a gallon this fall. Chemical companies continue to report very strong earnings as their feed stock costs drop. Certain MLPs such as Calumet and Global Partners that use energy reported very strong earnings, and management paints a bright future. However, even these stocks are being treated like the others – shoot first, ask questions later.

Here is where we believe the opportunity presents itself every summer. The Macy’s Red Apple 2-for-1 sale has started. To buy low is never easy, because there is pain associated with it. Again, the themes of energy users, growth over value and cybersecurity haven’t escaped from the summer

sell-off. These themes should reassert themselves in the next few months and make for a bright spring as rising earnings should bring rising prices. Therein is the opportunity to cure the “Summertime Blues.”

This article provided by H. H. “Will” Hardee, AWM of the Hardee Investment Group and a Financial Advisor and Senior Vice President at RBC Wealth Management in Houston, and was prepared by or in cooperation with RBC Wealth Management. The information included in this article is not intended to be used as the primary basis for making investment decisions nor should it be construed as a recommendation to buy or sell any specific security. RBC Wealth Management does not endorse this organization or publication. Consult your investment professional for additional information and guidance. RBC Wealth Management does not provide tax or legal advice. RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC.* 1. Source: Thompson One quote screen.

TrusT and ConfidenCe Since 1977, we’ve been providing families and business financial guidance that’s In The Client’s Best Interest. By listening to you and understanding your objectives, we build long-term relationships based on trust and integrity, and help ensure you and your family are well-positioned to meet your financial goals.

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he 2016 Ford Fusion looks and drives as fresh today as it did when it first appeared on American highways four years ago. This fivepassenger family car is no boring, midsize sedan that disappears into the scenery. The Fusion won’t get lost in the crowd with the rest of those ho-hum vehicles waiting in line at any school carpool lane.

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to deliver 44 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. Then there’s the Fusion Energi, a plug-in hybrid vehicle with a larger battery that can be driven as a pure electric vehicle on short trips and then as a hybrid for longer journeys.

All Fusions feature Ford’s state-ofthe-art Sync connectivity system, which allows the driver to not only make and answer hands-free phone calls but control the climate, entertainment and navigation with just the sound of your voice.

The 2016 Ford Fusion continues to deliver a complete package for the consumer that demands a stylish ride but wants a choice of either a family sedan, a sporty sedan or a green sedan. Take your pick!

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By T. Aaron Dobbs

Legal

Focus

10 Reasons Your Estate Plan Needs to be Revised #10: Your Will was not drafted in Texas. Your will may be valid if it was drafted in another state, but those involved in probating your will in Texas can anticipate having to jump through additional legal hurdles – which likely also means additional attorney’s fees. #9: Your marital status has changed. You will want to revise your will if you have gotten married, divorced or become widowed. Failing to update your will to remove a divorced or deceased spouse or to include a new spouse may have unintended consequences. This becomes all the more critical if you remarry and you or your new spouse has children from prior marriages. #8: You had or adopted children. You may consider placing your child’s inheritance in a trust until he or she is mature enough to handle it appropriately. You may also formally designate a person to care for your children and to administer their inheritance while they are young. #7: A person named as a beneficiary or executor in your Will has died or is incapacitated. If the named executor dies or is unable to serve, attorneys and the court may become involved in appointing another person to serve.

Likewise, should your will name a beneficiary who is now deceased, that beneficiary’s share may pass to someone you had not intended. #6: Your estate has significantly increased or decreased in value. If your estate has grown substantially, your current will may not include provisions designed to mitigate estate taxes. On the other hand, because Congress has made changes to tax laws, your estate no longer may be subject to estate or other transfer taxes. As a result, your will may include tax-planning features that are now unnecessary

and administratively burdensome. #5: You have a beneficiary with special needs. Proper planning is critical to ensure that your beneficiary does not lose eligibility for essential government benefits as a result of receiving an inheritance from your estate. #4: Your power of attorney is more than a couple years old. The Texas Legislature recently changed the laws relating to statutory durable powers of attorney. You run the risk of having a third party – like a bank – refuse to honor the power of attorney because it is not consistent with current law. #3: You have purchased real property located outside of Texas. If you own real property in multiple states, your will may have to be probated in each of those jurisdictions. However, your estate planning attorney can help you create a plan to avoid multiple time-consuming and costly probate proceedings. #2: You are about to sell or transition away from your business. It can be difficult to operate a business upon the death or incapacity of a business owner. You can work with your estate planning attorney to mitigate future issues by taking steps now to update your business documents to include succession planning or redemption provisions. #1: You do not yet have an Estate Plan! Without an estate plan, you give up control of how your estate will be distributed and who will be your executor. When a person dies without a will, state law dictates these decisions.

T. Aaron Dobbs is board certified in Estate Planning and Probate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and leads the Estate Planning, Probate and Trust practice of Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey PC from its Sugar Land office.

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Fort Bend Focus and absolutely! Brazos Magazines Host the GEMS of Fort Bend

Generous, Enthusiastic Men Serving

The 2015 GEMS of Fort Bend: Bob Hebert, Steve Onstad and Don Kerstetter.

Photography shot on location by Nesossi Studios at the Vogelsang Antique Emporium.

F

ort Bend Focus and absolutely! Brazos Magazines are proud to announce the 2015 GEMS of Fort Bend scheduled for Thursday, October 22nd. GEMS – Generous, Enthusiastic Men Serving – is an annual absolutely! focus media initiative honoring three male role models whose contributions to our community make them shine.

The 2015 GEMS were introduced at a brunch hosted by Joe and Doris Gurecky at their Historic Ebell House, which is the oldest brick home in downtown Rosenberg. The 2015 GEMS were joined by 2013 and 2014 GEMS, JEWELS of Fort Bend and community and event partners. The 2015 GEMS – Bob Hebert, Don Kerstetter and Steve Onstad – will be honored at a premier event featuring dinner, live entertainment and a “chips for charity” casino during the October 22nd event at the Safari Texas Ranch Lodge located in Richmond.

Proceeds from the evening event will be invested back into the Fort Bend community by supporting a non-profit organization whose mission is vital in our community: Fort Bend Family YMCA. The Fort Bend Family YMCA’s mission is to put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

The Y is a cause-driven organization that is for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility because a

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strong community can only be achieved when we invest in our kids, our health and our neighbors.

This is the third year Fort Bend Focus and absolutely!

Brazos Magazines have hosted the GEMS of Fort Bend. Last year’s event was sold out and raised over $15,000 for its beneficiary, Texana Center. Over the past seven years with both the GEMS and JEWELS of Fort Bend events, Fort Bend Focus and absolutely! Brazos Magazines have contributed nearly $150,000 to eight Fort Bend non-profit organizations.

“Continuing our mission of giving back to our community is paramount to our organization,” said Patti Parish-Kaminski, publisher of absolutely! focus media, the publishing company for Fort Bend Focus and absolutely!

Brazos Magazines. “Honoring these three amazing men who have contributed to our community in extraordinary ways through GEMS is an honor for us. These men have helped mold our community into an exemplary place to live, work and raise our children. We are humbled by their stellar examples of the true meaning of the word service.”

The GEMS of Fort Bend is open to the public. The GEMS and jeans themed event kicks off with the casino and cocktails at 6:30 pm followed by dinner and live entertainment.

Tables and individual tickets are available by contacting absolutely! focus media at 281-690-4242.

.com • October 2015

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2014 GEM of Fort Bend Neil Banfield

2010 JEWEL of Fort Bend Carolyn Banfield

Congratulations

2015 Gems!

Thank you for everything you do to make our community a better place to live!

Neil & Carolyn Banfield fort bend

magazine â&#x20AC;˘ October 2015

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Generous, Enthusiastic Men Serving

GEM of Fort Bend

Bob Hebert

By Patti Parish-Kaminski

S

ome people have big jobs, and some people have really big jobs. For this GEM of Fort Bend, overseeing 2,700 employees, a $300 million budget and serving 710,000 residents of one of the fastest growing counties in the nation is a really big job, but it is all in a day’s work. With a life devoted to leadership and service, he began giving of himself, his time and his talents, long before he arrived in Fort Bend, and he’s never looked back.

Born in the Texas Panhandle, Bob Hebert grew up in the land of wheat and cattle. His dad worked for the railroad and made certain that his son had a good education. “I received a very good Catholic education, and I’m very thankful for that,” said Hebert. “The nuns helped prepare me for success.”

Following his graduation from Pampa High School in 1959, Hebert began his life of service by enlisting in the United States Navy where he trained and served as an Aviation Electronics Technician. As an Aircrewman with the Airborne Early Warning Barrier Squadron, Pacific, he flew over 2,000 hours on patrol over the northern Pacific Ocean. He was on active duty for two years when he transferred to the University of Texas (UT) in Austin for a brief stint in college.

That’s when his life changed forever.

He met Pat Pickler on a blind date at a UT football game filling in for a friend of a friend who at the last minute decided to cancel. “Pat’s blind date wanted to go out with a girl he had been chasing, so a friend asked me if I wanted a date to the football game. That sounded like a fine idea to me.”

Two weeks later, the two were engaged, and six months later, the newlyweds moved to Hawaii. “I knew she was the girl I wanted to marry. I married way above my paygrade,” laughed Hebert. Honoring his commitment to the Navy,

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Hebert returned to the fleet for 20 months to complete his service. “Pat joined me in Hawaii. It was a great first year of marriage there.”

With a newborn daughter and another on the way, Hebert was discharged from the Navy, and the family returned to Houston. Hebert was enrolled at the University of Houston, but with another baby coming, he dropped out to provide for his growing family. Within a year, they bought a house in Alief. “We thought that house was the greatest thing in the world,” said Hebert of their 930 square foot home. “We loved it. I still drive by it every year or so.”

With a toddler, a new baby and a new home, Pat decided that it was time to get involved in their new community. “As Bob likes to tell it, we had gotten our first home in Alief, and he was sitting on the couch. The community was trying to form a homeowners association (HOA), and I told Bob that I’d really like for him to go. He went to the meeting, came back as president of the new HOA and the rest is history,” said Pat. After becoming HOA president, Hebert helped start the Alief Community Volunteer Fire Department. “We had a 25 year-old fire truck loaned to us, and we parked it at a service station close to our house. There were two of us who drove the truck, and when the bell rang, we headed for the station, got the truck and sat there until Pat advised us by radio where were going,” recalled Hebert. With Pat as dispatcher and Bob driving the truck, team Hebert served the volunteer fire department for seven years. Hebert was working during the day and at night, he was attending South Texas Junior College trying to obtain his Associate’s Degree, a three-year program, so he could attend South Texas College of Law and become an attorney. When he graduated with his degree, the Texas legislature changed the law, and a four-year degree was required for admission to law school, changing Hebert’s plans.

Trained in electronics in the Navy, Hebert worked for Xerox as a new product technician. Perhaps one of the most historic projects he worked on was the Apollo launch. He oversaw the Xerox machine that printed out pre-flight data on manned mission launches. With this technology in place, NASA no longer had to fly the data to Mission Control at 4 am; the data was printed out on-site with the technology similar to a fax machine. “Once I saw the pre-flight data was working and all was clear, I went home, but until the data was Bob and Pat Hebert on their wedding day, April 6, 1963. released, I sat there

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in Building 30 at Mission Control.”

In 1972, a unique problem presented itself to Hebert. “I was active in our community, and we had a problem in our water district,” said Hebert.

“Neighbors asked me if I would put something together to assist with our water issues, and so as a favor to our neighbors, I did.”

Bob Hebert speaking at a Fort Bend This “favor” was ECO County Leadership Presentation in 2009.

Resources, Inc. While being a homeowner led to a great deal of success for Hebert in the community, it was also the catalyst to assisting him with starting ECO, as he used the equity in his home to finance his new venture. He ran the company, which operated and managed more than 125 Municipal Utility Districts, for 13 years, continued his education “as best he could,” and retired at 44.

But retirement did not agree with Hebert. In 1985, the Heberts had moved to Fort Bend. “By 45, I had a non-compete as a consultant with ECO, I volunteered with the Small Business Administration to help small businesses during the recession and I graduated with a Master of Business Administration from Pepperdine University.”

When Hebert’s five year non-compete expired, he did what he did best: founded another small service company.

“It took off within a year doing very well.” The company that purchased ECO bought Hebert’s new company – now Southwest Water Company – and contracted him to serve as a senior consultant in management.

Working in the water industry, Hebert’s vast business experience led him to do something he had always done: serve.

He served for seven years as Vice Chair of the Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council, Chairman of the National Council for Public-Private Partnerships in Virginia, co-founded Global Initiatives and stepped in for the City of Arcola when they needed his help. “I served eight years as Receiver for the City of Arcola when they got into financial difficulty. I was able to help them get back on their feet. It was a very positive outcome for the City.”

Fast forward to 2003 when Hebert was elected as Fort Bend Constitutional County Judge, and the positive outcomes, along with his commitment to the community he presides over, are vast. “It is unique that Bob as a judge does so much community service, but that’s nothing new to him,” said friend and business associate Bob Brown, who has known Hebert since 1977. “Bob has always been involved and supportive of our community long before he was judge.

fort bend

He understands the importance of stewardship both professionally and personally.”

While Hebert supports a vast number of community organizations, he does have a few that are close to his heart.

“I support many causes but anything to do with raising the status of women and protecting women and children is important to me – the Women’s Center, Child Advocates. My wife and three daughters raised me and molded me into what I am today.”

Of course, Hebert has never limited his support to those areas. “I understand that there is a broad level of need. We have a duty to give back, and I am pleased to do it. I am convinced that the satisfaction I get out of giving pays dividends that can’t be measured in dollars and cents.”

Another meaningful part of Hebert’s life that cannot be measured in “dollars and cents” is his family. “I’m most proud of having the good sense to marry my lovely wife. Without her, I would not have achieved much of what I have achieved in life and certainly would not have been as happy.” The family-oriented Heberts raised three daughters, and their daughters raised five “excellent young men and good Americans.” Two of Hebert’s grandsons have followed in his grandfather’s footsteps of service. Robbie McKnight served four years active duty in the United States Navy, and CWO Nick Hannes is an Army Apache pilot serving in the Middle East.

And now, there’s a great-grandson, Kayson McKnight, to add to the Hebert clan.

Hebert’s philosophy is simple: “I tried to leave every organization I worked with better off. If you can do that, I think that’s a success.” For his devotion to leadership and service, for perhaps having the biggest job of them all in Fort Bend and for his commitment to giving – both in and out of office – absolutely! Brazos and Fort Bend Focus Magazines are proud to honor Bob Hebert as a GEM of Fort Bend.

Ray and Patsey McKnight, Ernie and Cindy Layman, Shelley and Bud Hannes and Bob and Pat Hebert.

magazine • October 2015

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Congratulations 2015 GEMS of Fort Bend We applaud your outstanding service to the community.

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10025 Southwest Freeway • Houston, Texas 77074 TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • October 2015

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Congratulations!

The Hardee Investment Group would like to send a special “thank you” to Bob Hebert, Don Kerstetter and Steve Onstad for being the “GEMS” of our community! Your dedication, generosity and enthusiasm are an inspiration to us all.

Proud supporters of the Gems and Jeans gala event!

Hardee Investment Group (713) 853-0879 Toll Free: (800) 838-0757 www.hardeeinvestmentgroup.com

HARDEE INVESTMENT GROUP

First City Tower 1001 Fannin, Suite 1200 Houston, TX 77002 There’s Wealth in Our Approach.™ © 2015 RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC.

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8/31/15 1:32 PM

Generous, Enthusiastic Men Serving

GEM of Fort Bend

Don Kerstetter

By Patti Parish-Kaminski

I

t is human nature to want to make a difference in whatever you do – to be a positive influence and cause change for the better. For this GEM of Fort Bend, making a difference is more than just a saying; it’s a way of life. You see, when he arrived in Fort Bend, he chose to make a difference – in a big way – by creating a business that not only cares about community but demonstrates it with unbridled support for many organizations and causes.

When you hear the words, “Relax…and enjoy the difference,” Don Kerstetter and Classic Chevrolet immediately come to mind. It’s a brand – and a business – he’s built by embodying the values instilled in him as a young man by his father: hard work, a good education and a generous heart. “One of the earliest things I remember my dad telling me was that I was going to go to college,” said Kerstetter. That was a tall order for the son of an USAF Master Sergeant who worked three jobs to support his family and educate his children. Eventually, all six Kerstetter kids from Columbus, Mississippi earned college degrees.

After graduating from Ole Miss in 1987, Kerstetter went into sales. “I recognized an industry that was starved for talent because they were always advertising for good people.” This industry was the automobile industry. “I got into the car business and immediately figured out how demanding it truly was.

I applied the same principles of martial arts into selling cars – positive mental attitude, discipline, focus, determination and the grit to bounce back up when you get knocked down.”

Kerstetter was working with Classic Chevrolet in Grapevine, Texas selling cars in the summer of 1994 when he received a phone call that changed his life. He had met a young lady in Dallas and began dating her in 1990. By 1993, Jackie had become his wife. “There I was, scrambling to make a sale one day when Jackie called me and said, ‘Guess who’s pregnant?

We are!’ After I came back to earth, I immediately got on the TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

phone because I knew with a baby coming, I needed to get a job in management. I received three prospects and an offer and quickly took it. When I left, I made it known that I would return immediately if a management opportunity at Classic became available.”

That opportunity came just 90 days later. “Happily, I was hired as a manager at the best Chevy dealership in the United States owned by the finest dealer group in the country.”

Through hard work and determination, Kerstetter became leader of the finance department, and 10 years after he began his career with Classic, he was informed that he would be considered for partnership when the right time came along. “That opportunity was still five years down the road, and I had to continue to prove myself over and over. Eventually, I received the best opportunity of all.”

That opportunity was to take over a large dealership in Sugar Land with a questionable reputation. “For a few years, the number one Chevy dealership in the entire United States was located in Sugar Land. They were first in sales and absolute dead last in ethics and customer satisfaction. We were watching the store closely, hearing complaints from both customers and General Motors’ employees. We knew that there were issues, but we truly had no idea just how bad the prior owners had abused the community’s trust. Our Grapevine location passed the Sugar Land store in 2006 and became the highest volume Chevy store in the United States. Three years later, I bought the Sugar Land location when the customer abuse – and the worst recession in 40 years – put them out of business permanently.”

As soon as Kerstetter arrived in February of 2009, he began hearing the horror stories as the community was not shy about sharing their bad experiences. “One of the first days I was here, I went to the bank to cash a check. I told the two bank tellers helping me that I had bought the Chevy dealership in Sugar Land. They literally recoiled turning their backs on me.”

Kerstetter asked the ladies, who shared their bad experience, for a chance. “I asked them to give me a chance – I had literally just got here! I promised them that I was committed to making a difference.” Fortunately, the ladies did give him a chance, and both soon became customers.

“I had no idea – it was stunning how unbelievably negative literally everyone’s perception of the dealership was despite new ownership,” recalled Kerstetter. “I worked six days a week, 12 to 14 hours a day to turn that perception around and make

Jackie, Grace, Don and Jacob Kerstetter. .com • October 2015

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Classic Chevrolet a business that Fort Bend would be proud of.”

Kerstetter’s efforts concentrated not only on customer service – in 2015 Classic was named a Chevrolet Dealer of the Year for the fifth consecutive year – but community service. He visited with community leaders and soon had a plan. “Dee Koch was one of the most influential people I spoke to. She told me that I needed a plan because everyone would ask for money, and I couldn’t afford to give to everyone.” Kerstetter joined the Exchange Club and went through the Chamber’s Leadership Program. “Meeting people and participating in groups helped me develop a better understanding of the obstacles I inherited from the previous owner.” One day early on, Commissioner James Patterson came by the dealership to meet Kerstetter. “Commissioner Patterson was, and still is, instrumental in helping me understand the needs of this community. I have learned so much about people and about Fort Bend from him.”

Don Kerstetter with John Robson and Betty Baitland at the Sugar Land Exchange Club Spaghetti Cook-Off.

While Kerstetter was making an effort to change the community’s perception of the dealership, not everyone was easily won over. “I met Bob and Carole Brown in April of 2009, and Bob told me he would never buy a car from this dealership.”

Bob concurred. “I told Don that he had a big job to do and a lot of problems to solve. There were a lot of people very upset over how they were treated.” Bob told Kerstetter that he could go far by getting involved in the community, and that’s exactly what he did.

“Bob Brown has been a mentor. I knew that I could sure mess things up by not learning from people as revered and loved as Bob and Carole. They are true role models and always lead by example. I knew that it would be a great challenge, but it was obvious that if I could win Bob over – reassure him that I was a businessman to be trusted – then I would be in good shape.”

Kerstetter has what he refers to as “his most treasured possession,” a note from the Browns congratulating him on his first year. “Don’s done everything and more that he said he was going to do,” said Bob. “We are proud to have him in our community.”

But did Kerstetter win Bob over enough to do business with him? “My family has bought eight trucks from Don,” said Bob. “He doesn’t just listen; he does.”

When Kerstetter “does,” he “does” in a big way. He has supported numerous Fort Bend organizations from local churches to law enforcement to youth organizations. “I supported Dulles fort bend

High School during my first week here,” said Kerstetter, who gave the school $3,000 for new batting cages. “I know I can’t give large amounts to all organizations, but I can give small amounts to many. I just don’t like saying ‘no.’ I made a career out of saying ‘yes’ to people.”

Kerstetter and Classic Chevrolet have served as primary sponsors for the annual Fort Bend Women’s Center event, The Arc of Fort Bend’s annual golf tournament and the Exchange Club of Sugar Land’s annual event. “Exchange taught me a lot about giving back. There isn’t a more generous group of people in the whole county.”

While Kerstetter gives to many charitable organizations, those helping women and children have his heart. “Before my mother married my father, she was a victim of an abusive marriage in 1949. At only 18 years old and with an infant son, she possessed an incredible mental and spiritual strength that gave her the courage to walk away. The reason I am here is because she had the courage to do that. This is one of the reasons why I feel so strongly about the Fort Bend Women’s Center.”

With his family’s military service, Kerstetter has a great love and respect for serving and retired members of the U.S. Armed Forces. In September, this culminated with Classic Chevrolet, in partnership with Operation Finally Home and Tilson Homes, awarding a mortgage free, new home to a disabled combat veteran. “All I asked of Operation Finally Home was that they locate the home for a veteran and their family in Fort Bend. It was a privilege for me to be a part of that ceremony.”

Law enforcement is another arena that Kerstetter is passionate about. “The negative atmosphere created by the media over the last year or two regarding law enforcement has resonated strongly with me and has reinforced my commitment to local law enforcement. We have strong community support for them and raised over $50,000 this year for the Sugar Land Police Officer’s Association at our annual Classic Chili Cookoff.”

Kerstetter and Classic have come a long way since that day in 2009 when Kerstetter landed in Sugar Land. He was seeking to revitalize a failed business that had totally alienated the entire community. “I think the hardest thing that I have ever done was changing this community’s viewpoint of what a Chevy dealer should be. The community was embarrassed by the former dealership and rightly so. Today, I am proud that I provide employment for 250 employees and help make their lives better.

The fact that my employees – and the community – depend on me motivates me as much as anything.”

Kerstetter’s philosophy for business and community go hand in hand. “If you do a good job and the community supports you, charitable leadership is absolutely essential. It demonstrates faith in your community, as they have demonstrated their faith in you. Giving back is vital for your own mental and spiritual health, as well as for the health of your community.” For his tenacity to turn a negative into a positive, for his willingness to say “yes” as much as possible, and for his commitment to making a difference, absolutely! Brazos and Fort Bend Focus Magazines are proud to honor Don Kerstetter as a GEM of Fort Bend.

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Generous, Enthusiastic Men Serving

GEM of Fort Bend

Steve Onstad

By Patti Parish-Kaminski

B

ar-b-que is a staple in Texas cuisine, and most Fort Bend residents know that there’s a down home, back to basics restaurant complete with its own dance hall that serves some of the best bar-b-que that the state has to offer. They might even know the proprietor and chef behind this great food and Fort Bend institution, but what they might not know is that this GEM of Fort Bend gives, not to one organization, but to many and has for nearly 40 years.

Steve Onstad moved to then rural Richmond as a young boy with his family. The Richmond of Onstad’s youth was not like the Richmond we know today. “Moving to Richmond was a big culture shock,” recalled Onstad. “There were no sidewalks, no neighbors. We learned to ride horses, raise animals, and it was big time to go to Schultz’s store to get a Coke and an ice cream sandwich.”

The barn-shaped house that Onstad and his four siblings were raised in still stands today on FM 359 next to his restaurant, which is a Fort Bend landmark: The Swinging Door.

Living in the country taught Onstad many lessons, the most important of which was to help your neighbors. “Growing up, we weren’t just part of a family; we were part of a neighborhood. Everybody knew everybody, and one of the first things my dad taught me was that when somebody was sick or needed help, you helped out. It was standard issue to help your neighbors in times of trouble.”

Onstad graduated from Lamar High School and left for then Southwest Texas State University. After two years of “social studies,” he decided to change course. “Dad said get a job or join the service, so I went to work.” In 1973, Onstad and his dad, Ward, built a small, wood frame business on FM 359 in anticipation of a 1,000 acre subdivision scheduled to be built by Friendswood Development in the area. The devel-

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opment project fell through, but when Pecan Grove sprang up a few years later, Onstad’s business took off.

The Swinging Door opened Labor Day in 1973. “I started out with 12 chairs inside and a little patio. It was a dinky little place, but it was mine. Dad and I built it, and I ran it.”

It wasn’t long before the business grew, and Onstad added on building an adjacent dance hall. His dad was in the Real Estate business at the time, and he ran the dance hall while Onstad ran the growing restaurant. “During the late 70s and into the 90s, we were kind of far out. To make it worth people’s while to drive out, I decided to make The Swinging Door a complete package where folks could eat, dance and listen to live music.”

Much like another large dance hall during the same era – Gilley’s – The Swinging Door became a popular destination for Houstonians including many famous ones. “The Oilers would come out on Thursday nights, sit in the back and hold court,” said Onstad, who became friends with many of the players during the “Luv Ya Blue” days including Dan Pastorini and Giff Nielsen. “I would close off the back of the restaurant so they could sit back there and drink beer.”

The Monday Night Football crew – Don Meredith, Howard Cosell and Frank Gifford – all came out to The Swinging Door, and Earl Campbelll spent the night celebrating after he became a Houston Oiler at the Richmond institution with buddies. “Giff brought the entire Osmond family out one time, and we’ve had our share of politicians and Saudi princes join us over the years.”

Friend Dan Pastorini brought a special guest out one night when he was on a date, and the restaurant was closed for a private party. Onstad led the party of two to the back, and his customers “like to fell out of their chairs when those two walked in.” Pastorini’s date was Farrah Fawcett. “She was just as pretty in person as in her photos and so nice. Moments like that were kind of special to me.”

Steve Onstad with his son David Carriere and daughter Michaela Filla.

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Steve Onstad at The Swinging Door.

fort bend

Photos by Hartwell Photography

Other special moments during Onstad’s career revolve around his long list of community service. A past president and member of Rotary Club of Richmond for nearly 40 years, Onstad has made his mark with food not only at The Swinging Door, but at charity events for years. One of the Rotary Club’s largest fundraisers each year is selling turkey legs at the Fort Bend County Fair during the 10 day event, and Onstad is the man in charge. “Steve almost unilaterally gets everything together for our booth at the fair – supplies, food, equipment – literally everything,” said fellow Rotarian and long-time friend Elizabeth Duff-Drozd. “Steve’s generosity and willingness to do anything for the community and our charitable organizations is what makes him special. He’s not afraid of hard work and will roll up his sleeves to help out whenever he can.”

Onstad has been a “Man Who Cooks” benefitting the Lamar Educational Awards Foundation, provided dinner for the Foster and Fort Bend Museum’s events and served up his famous bar-b-que at Reading Between the Wines benefitting the Literacy Council of Fort Bend. But perhaps the groups that have had the most impact on Onstad have been his involvement with organizations supporting individuals with disabilities. Onstad hosted a bowling banquet for Richmond State Supported Living Center for over 10 years. The residents traveled to a bowling alley then out to The Swinging Door for a good time. “To the Richmond State School residents, the event was special. Seeing their joy and watching them so carefree, everyone dancing with no age, race or gender barriers, made it special to me. It was uplifting to watch them and be a small part of their lives.”

Onstad has also catered the ARC’s Best in the West for nearly 20 years, and when he’s not volunteering or running his restaurant, he’s acting as a mentor for the over 1,500 people – many young – who have worked at The Swinging Door

over the years. “Impacting youth in a positive way during their formative years is a special thing,” said Onstad. “I take pride in the fact that I have former employees introducing me to their children telling them that when they get old enough to work, this is the first place they would let them work.”

Many of Onstad’s former employees have expressed their appreciation as a positive influence on their lives, and some of his employees are third generation employees.

While Onstad has served as a role model to many, his role model was his dad. “Dad was a worker; he believed in hard work and getting it done. That’s how he had to live, and that’s how he raised five kids. We were well taken care of, but he sacrificed a lot so we could have the things we had.”

The Onstad philosophy of working together has translated into the next generation of family. Onstad’s daughter, Michaela Filla, is in the food business with her dad running The Swinging Door at the Fort Bend Country Club. The third generation – Onstad’s three grandsons – love running around the restaurants. “The boys do run the show,” said Onstad of his grandsons, ages 10, eight and six. “Reed, the 10 year-old, is taking culinary lessons at his school. He likes being in the kitchen. It would be neat to get a third generation involved down the road.”

Onstad’s philosophy of service is straight forward. “I’ve always been willing to help out when I could for the right cause, and I tried my best to make a positive difference in the community.” For his willingness to help, his passion for mentoring youth and his 40 plus years of giving whenever and however he could, absolutely! Brazos and Fort Bend Focus Magazines are proud to honor Steve Onstad as a GEM of Fort Bend.

Robert and Michaela Filla, David Carriere, Marci Moss, Steve Onstad and Jackson, Reed and Noah Filla.

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High School HOT SHOT

By Joan Frances

Meet Aman Patel

D

ulles High School “successfully prepares all students for the 21st century by building character, developing technology skills and creating lifelong learners through a tradition of excellence and rich cultural diversity.”

The teachers and administration at this Fort Bend ISD high school graduate seniors of the highest caliber of education. One senior who has a great passion for learning and an impressive resumé is Aman Patel.

Aman is a student at the Math and Science Academy. He is a straight “A” scholar in all Advanced Placement (AP) and honors level classes.

His discipline has brought him to achieve unprecedented success every year of his high school career. Since his freshman year, Aman has been a member of Dulles High School Physics Bowl Team and placed first in the Texas and New Mexico Region. This past year, his team placed third in the United States, and Aman placed 96th in individual score globally.

As a member of the Dulles High School National Science Bowl Team for the past two years, Aman and his team placed first at the Texas A&M Regional and seventh at the

Aman national competition this year. Aman also placed first in science in both the University Interscholastic League and Texas Math and Science Coaches Association (TMSCA) state science competitions and achieved high scores in both Biology and Chemistry Olympiads. At the Academic World Quest this year, Aman placed first at the regional competition. He is the recipient of the National Geographic Learning’s AP Student of the Year Award.

In addition to his commitment to academics, Aman plays competitive tennis and is a recreational cello player. He is also devoted to school clubs and activities. He is the founder and president of SciNOW Club. This organization supports high school students in starting after-school science enrichment programs at local elementary schools with the mission of cultivating a lifelong interest in science. Last year, the club served over 120 students.

When asked what value he lives by, Aman said, “I always make it a point to engage in activities I am passionate about. I love science, community service and sports, and as a result, these are very important parts of my life. Although my schedule is extremely busy, I look forward to and enjoy every activity.”

Aman is vice president of the Science National Honor Society and an inducted member of Mu Alpha Theta, Spanish Honor Society and National Honor Society. Aman said, “Many experiences go into truly becoming a leader, and one of the most fulfilling parts of leadership is the ability to share those experiences with others. Regardless of the activity – whether it is teaching science to elementary school students, organizing a district-wide science competition or representing Dulles High School at a national event – leadership necessitates a huge personal investment. When the outcome is favorable, however small, the resulting feeling is unparalleled.”

In his free time, Aman is engaged in several enrichment activities. He is a tutor, a member of the Fort Bend Astronomy Club and a volunteer at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. He is also involved in research relating to malaria at the University of Houston.

Aman plans to major in a scientific field and is currently narrowing down which college he will attend.

Congratulations on your extensive accomplishments Aman, and good luck in your future endeavors.

“Many experiences go into truly becoming a leader, and one of the most fulfilling parts of leadership is the ability to share those experiences with others.”

- Aman Patel

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When Worry Becomes Worrisome: The Difference Between Normal Stress and Anxiety Disorders

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ou’re worried about X, Y and Z. You obsess about them for hours every day, maybe for weeks. It’s safe to assume that most of us have experienced stress in one form or another, whether it’s a deadline at work, a family conflict or an important decision. But, contrary to popular belief, there is a difference between normal stress and anxiety.

Dr. Kimberly Cress, Medical Director at the TMS Serenity Center, says the main difference between worry and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is that the symptoms start to cause dysfunction and are more frequent with GAD. Excessive stress and worry about a variety of everyday problems that is disproportionate to the events and that linger six months or more can indicate GAD. One recent study found that people without GAD tended to worry an average of 55 minutes a day, while those with GAD worried for 310 minutes each day. That’s one hour of worry compared to five.

Stress and worry are the body’s reactions to a circumstance or situation that requires a physical, mental or emotional adjustment or response.

While people typically associate stress with negative responses, it can be caused by any change – even positive ones.

Anxiety is a general term for several disorders that cause nervousness, fear, apprehension and worry.

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses in America, affecting around 18 percent of the United States’ population in any given year and almost 30 percent of American adults across their lifespan. The average age of onset is 31 years-old and affects twice as many women as men.

Anxiety can become a problem when your worry flip switch gets stuck to the “on” position. “It starts to become dys-

functional,” stated Dr. Cress. “You feel like it’s affecting your relationships, work and ability to enjoy yourself. You can’t turn it off.”

How do you know whether this is typical stress or worry or if you have GAD? Dr. Cress noted some major differences: Normal Worry: • Worrying does not interfere with your relationships, job or social life.

• You feel that your concerns are controllable and can be dealt with at a later time.

• Your worries cause only mild distress.

• A specific cause initiated your worrying.

• Worry only lasts for a brief period with a beginning and an end.

• Worry isn’t usually accompanied by physical or psychological symptoms.

GAD: • Worrying significantly interferes with work or social activities.

• You feel that your worrying is out of your control.

• Your worries are very distressing and pervasive.

• Worrying began for no reason.

• Three or more physical or psychological symptoms occur with your worrying, such as sleep problems, irritability, tense muscles, problems concentrating, fatigue or restlessness.

Chronic worry and stress can also trigger a host of health issues. The problem occurs when fight or flight is triggered daily by excessive worrying and anxiety. The fight or flight response causes the body’s sympathetic nervous system to release stress hormones, such as cortisol. These hormones can boost blood sugar levels and triglycerides (blood fats) that can be used by the

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body for fuel. The hormones also cause physical reactions such as: • Difficulty swallowing • Dizziness • Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) • Fast heartbeat • Fatigue • Headaches • Irritable bowel with diarrhea and/or constipation • Irritability • Muscle aches • Muscle tension • Nausea, knots in the stomach • Nervous energy • Rapid breathing • Shortness of breath • Sweating • Trembling and twitching When to Get Help: Many will see their general physician numerous times to address their physical complaints, but they are not aware that GAD is the cause. When individuals struggle with multiple physical symptoms throughout the body, the common denominator is anxiety.

GAD is typically treated with psychotherapy, medications or both. However, when an individual cannot tolerate medications due to side effects, or they continue to suffer from anxiety despite numerous medications, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Therapy is a great treatment option.

If you’re struggling with overwhelming anxiety, don’t hesitate to seek help.

Contact a mental health professional if you are feeling overwhelmed by stress, excessive worry or if you feel stress is affecting your health. “We’ve had great success treating patients who suffer from anxiety with TMS Therapy,” Dr. Cress stated. “We’re able to turn the worry switch ‘off’ and get patients back to enjoying their lives again.”

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October is

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Educate yourself and your loved ones about awareness and detection.

Learn about treatment options available in our community.

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magazine â&#x20AC;˘ October 2015

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FOCUS ON THE CURE

Common Breast Cancer Myths: The Truth About Breast Cancer

Dr. Michelina Cairo Texas Oncology– Sugar Land

Dr. Frankie Ann Holmes Texas Oncology– Sugar Land

options, often used in combination, can include radiation, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, bone-directed therapy or hormone therapy.

A clinical trial may offer the best approach to fighting cancer. Texas Oncology, through its affiliation with US Oncology Research, has contributed to the approval of more than 50 FDA-approved cancer-fighting drugs, nearly one-third of all cancer therapies approved by the FDA to date.

“Patients interested in participating in a trial should consult with their oncologist to determine eligibility, benefits and risks,” said Dr. Frankie Ann Holmes, medical oncologist, Texas Oncology–Houston Memorial City.

Myth No. 3: Lumps in your breasts mean you have breast cancer.

W

hile early detection and advances in treatment have created millions of breast cancer survivors, it remains the second-deadliest cancer affecting American women. As oncologists, we often hear misconceptions about the disease from patients. It’s important to have the facts and dispel common myths surrounding breast cancer.

Myth No. 1: You’ll only get breast cancer if you have a family history.

A higher risk of developing breast cancer can be inherited through gene mutations. “Only five to 10 percent of cancers are from inherited gene mutations, and many women diagnosed with breast cancer do not have a family history of the disease,” said Dr. Michelina Cairo, medical oncologist, Texas Oncology–Houston Memorial City.

If you have a strong family history of cancer, genetic testing can identify your risk for certain cancer types, including breast and ovarian. Reducing risk and detecting cancer early are the most important things people can do to protect their health.

Myth No. 2: If you are diagnosed with breast cancer, you must have your breasts removed.

A breast cancer diagnosis does not automatically result in a mastectomy. The type and stage of the cancer will impact the need for a mastectomy or lumpectomy. Treatment

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Many conditions may cause breast lumps, including benign conditions. It’s important to pay attention to other less-known symptoms of breast cancer, including change in breast size or shape; thickening of breast or underarm; nipple retraction or discharge; dimpled skin near the breast; tenderness or pain in breast or nipple; a lump under your arm or around the collarbone or irritation, redness, scaliness or swelling on the breast, nipple or skin near the nipple.

While these are symptoms of breast cancer, changes in your breasts can also indicate non-cancerous conditions.

“Consult your physician immediately if you experience any of the symptoms above,” said Dr. Holmes.

Myth No. 4: Breast cancer only affects women.

Breast cancer is more common in women; however, men can also be diagnosed. About one in 1,000 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer in his lifetime. Breast cancer can have a huge impact on the lives of those diagnosed and their families. While it cannot be completely prevented, there are steps women can take to decrease their risk.

“Regular exercise, limiting alcohol intake and maintaining a healthy body weight may reduce your breast cancer risk,” said Dr. Cairo. “With regular screenings and advanced technology and treatments, more people than ever are surviving this disease.”

.com • October 2015

54

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FOCUS ON THE CURE

Early Detection: Having a Mammogram Could Save Your Life!

Stephen Phillips, MD Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital

Y

ou’ve heard the statistics before.

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. You might think you’re safe from breast cancer if no one in your family has had it, but family history is only one of the factors that determines your risk for the disease.

“Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States,” said Dr. Stephen Phillips, breast radiologist and medical director of the Breast Care Center at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “It is very important for all women to increase their awareness about their personal risk of breast cancer.”

Did you know breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in wom-

en, regardless of race? Although Asian, Native American and Hispanic women have lower odds of developing breast cancer and dying from the disease, Caucasian women are more likely to be diagnosed, and African-American women are at greater risk of dying from breast cancer.

If your mother, sister or daughter has had breast cancer, your risk is doubled. But if that’s not the case, you’re not necessarily in the clear. Less than 15 percent of women diagnosed with breast cancer have a family history of the disease, which means it’s important to schedule the screenings that are right for your age.

“Monthly breast self-exams are something every woman should do starting in their 20s,” said Phillips.

“Women should know how their breasts normally look and feel and report any breast change promptly to their physician.” Additionally, a clinical breast exam should be performed every three years for women in their 20s and 30s and annually for women 40 and over.

Yearly mammograms are recommended starting at age 40 and should continue for as long as a woman is in good health.

Putting off your routine mammogram because you think your risk is

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lower now that you’re older is not a good idea. Among older women, waiting five years or more between mammograms increases your risk of dying from breast cancer. The majority of women diagnosed with breast cancer are older than 50, and the risk increases as you age. What’s more, two of every three invasive breast cancers found are in women 55 and up.

So, now you understand the importance of yearly mammograms. But of equal importance is where you have your mammogram. The Breast Care Center at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital offers women a lifesaving difference. Staffed by renowned breast radiologists, the Breast Care Center is the leading breast imaging facility in Fort Bend County and provides some of the best diagnostic services available, including 3-D Mammography, Digital Mammography, Diagnostic Ultrasound, Breast MRI, Molecular Breast Imaging, MRI-guided Biopsy, Ultrasound Biopsy and Stereotactic Biopsy.

Should your care need to extend beyond your yearly mammogram, a dedicated breast care navigator will guide you through the emotional and complex journey from diagnosis to survivorship – so you can focus on healing.

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FOCUS ON THE CURE

Recognizing the Risks of Breast Cancer Breastfeeding is also a modifiable factor. Planning for the first birth prior to age 30 or breastfeeding for at least six months after delivery can decrease the risk of breast cancer.

Avoid or limit hormonal therapy during menopause.

Non-Modifiable Risk Factors

Brooke Jemelka, MD OB/GYN, Caritas Women’s Care St. Luke’s Medical Group Sugar Land

W

hen I perform annual well-woman exams, I talk to my patients about breast cancer awareness. Women should do breast self-examinations to be aware of how their breasts normally feel and look. If they notice any changes, such as lumps, discharge or other abnormalities, they should seek medical attention immediately. They shouldn’t wait until their next well-woman exam a year later.

Breast cancer has both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. Also, it’s important to know that the disease can ultimately affect a woman’s chance to conceive in the future.

Modifiable Risk Factors Some breast cancer risk factors are modifiable, like eating a healthy diet, maintaining a good weight, lowering the amount of alcohol intake, not smoking and being physically active. A higher body mass index (BMI) and obesity are associated with postmenopausal breast cancer. Be sure your diet is rich in fruits and vegetables. The American Cancer Society recommends 45 minutes of physical activity at least once a day for five or more days a week. By taking care of themselves physically, women can decrease certain risks of breast cancer.

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Gender, genetics, age, race and personal history are nonmodifiable risk factors of breast cancer. It’s estimated that five to 10 percent of breast cancers are due to heredity and genetic defects inherited from their parents.

Women with the breast cancer gene BRCA1 or BRCA2, or who have a strong family history of the disease, have a 50 percent chance of inheriting the disease. All women should discuss guidelines for breast cancer screening with their physicians, even without a family history of the disease.

Based on a patient’s personal history and family history, I recommend my patients undergo genetic testing. Though we can’t change our genetics, we can detect cancer early.

The earlier their breast cancer is detected, the better chance women have of surviving.

Fertility Challenges Many of my patients who have won the battle or are in the midst of fighting breast cancer experience fertility challenges from chemotherapy treatment. As a result of cancer medication and chemotherapy, most women experience hormonal and menstrual cycle irregularities, as well as early menopause, and temporary or permanent infertility. The duration of the transient infertility cannot be predicted.

Consult a Physician Today If you’re considering having a family, speak with your physician about your fertility options or schedule a well-woman exam at St. Luke’s Medical Group Caritas Women’s Care in Sugar Land.

.com • October 2015

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Take

2 Minutes

to schedule your Mammogram online.

Early detection is key to surviving breast cancer.

Do something good for yourself.

Schedule your mammogram online today.

Join us in support of breast cancer research!

During October, purchase one of our Breast Cancer Awareness Flamingos on display at participating mammography locations.

Your $15 donation will benefit those diagnosed with breast cancer.

Five Convenient

CHI St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Health

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Baylor St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Medical Center Patients Medical Center Sugar Land Hospital The Vintage Hospital The Woodlands Hospital

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FOCUS ON THE CURE Fighting Breast Cancer: Early Detection Is Key doctor about which screening tests are best for you.

Mammograms

Dr. Eric Humble Sugar Land Face & Body Plastic Surgery

B

reast cancer is the most common cancer in women, with skin cancers being an exception. Screening tests and early detection can find cancer early when chances for survival are highest.

It is important to know your risk for breast cancer. Talking to both sides of your family is important so you can become familiar with your family history. It is also important to talk to your

Beginning at age 40, women should have a mammogram every year if you are at average risk. Beginning at age 20, women should schedule a clinical breast exam at least every three years and annual exams every year starting at age 40.

Self Exams Be familiar with your body and what is normal for you. The best way to do this is by performing monthly self breast exams. If you notice any of the following changes in your breast, contact your physician immediately: • Lump • Hard knot or thickening inside the breast or underarm area • Swelling

• Warmth, redness or darkening of the breast • Change in the size or shape of the breast • Dimpling or puckering of the skin • Itchy, scaly sore or rash on the nipple • Pulling in of the nipple or other parts of the breast • Nipple discharge that starts suddenly • New pain in one spot that doesn’t go away Making healthy lifestyle choices is also a good preventative for breast cancer. A key component in a healthy lifestyle is maintaining a healthy weight and adding exercise to your routine.

Limiting alcohol intake and menopausal hormone use can also help reduce your risk.

Improved Breast Awareness Through Wellness Education: The Lymphatic Drainage System

Joyce Long Joyce Long Wellness Institute

T

he most underrated purifying system in the human body is the Lymphatic System, an integral part of the immune system. It is a person’s “Life Flow System.” This system and all of its capillaries are a major part of the body’s cleansing of excess toxic waste.

The body contains three quarts of blood and 12 quarts of lymph. The lymphatic system moves approximately 45 percent of the waste through the body as it helps drain debris from 17 glands and organs in the endocrine system. Movement pumps the lymph system.

Lymph flows through a network of vessels, nodes and other organs. This system drains fluid from the body’s tis-

sues into the blood stream, transports fats from the gastrointestinal tract to the blood stream and fights infection.

Inside the lymph nodes, white blood cells and antibodies filter out foreign substances such as bacteria.

The lymph system is completely independent from the blood system and its capillaries. Blood moves quickly through capillaries, but lymph moves slowly through the capillaries. It will move even slower if one has shallow breathing patterns and very little exercise in their daily life. Blood takes nutrients to the cells, and lymph picks up toxins and waste and takes them away from cells. The lymph system should be cleansing the body constantly to keep one disease-free and healthy.

The lymph moves only in one direction – from the feet up to the chest and down from the top of the head and face into the Thoracic Duct. The body is covered with lymphatic highways, especially in the breast area, and constant movement to keeps it flowing. Deep Breathing and Lymphatic Drainage

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Therapies, along with Colon Hydrotherapy, will facilitate cleansing. When keeping the body from autointoxication, your life force and daily existence should maintain a high quality of living through healthier foods, yoga, deep breathing, rebounding on a trampoline, power plating, stretching, jump roping, high frequency or manual lymphatic drainage.

The tissues of the body, including the organ systems, are made up of a million cells. If diseases block the flow, it cannot discharge its toxic material.

Left unchecked, the Lymph system continues to fill up and eventually the body swells with its own waste matter.

It is very important to rid the overflow of toxins from the body for future health and longevity. When the cells become balanced, the body regains its defense mechanism. Only a detoxified body has the power and potential for healing.

This article is intended to for educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as diagnostic or prescriptive. Joyce Long Wellness Institute does not prescribe or diagnose.

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any abnormalities found on a mammogram are not necessarily cancer, but rather are benign conditions like calcium deposits or dense areas in the breast. If the radiologist or a doctor notes areas of concern on a mammogram, further testing may be needed.

This can include additional mammograms known as compression or magnification views, as well as ultrasound imaging. If further imaging is not effective, a biopsy, wherein a sample of breast tissue is taken, will be sent to a laboratory for testing. In some instances, an MRI may be taken when mammography or ultrasound results are negative and it is still not clear what is causing a breast change or abnormality.

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FOCUS ON THE CURE

The Difference Between Knowing and Doing

Sandra Templeton, MD, FACS Diseases and Surgery of the Breast Breast Care for Life

A

s the rain pelted from the sky, cooling off the summer heat, we stood at the airline counter as the representative informed me, “Your flight has been cancelled. The first availability I have to your destination is tomorrow.” She encouraged us to return in one hour to check in for the full flight tomorrow, lest we be at the back of the plane. We settled on lunch at the airport as we waited for time to pass. As I approached the food counter, I looked for healthy lunch options. Salad at a barbecue joint always seemed suspect, and that loaded baked potato looked tempting!

After we checked in, we returned home in the pouring rain. My mind quickly made a list of things I had been meaning to do. That exercise class I had been planning to start was at the top of the list. Why was it so hard to do what I know I should?

Acting contrary to self-interest has been present since ancient times. The apostle Paul lamented in Romans, “I

don’t understand myself. I want to do what is right, but I do not do it. Instead, I do the very thing I hate.” We all struggle with conflicts and good intentions. Admitting that we fail at doing what is ultimately good for us is an important beginning.

Immediate pleasure has a stronger effect on maintaining behavior than long-term consequences. Our primitive brain alerts us of immediate threats and pulls us to instant gratification.

Only our developed brain allows for executive functioning that can override the pull to immediate pleasure and carry out goal-oriented behavior. This allows us to imagine future consequences and craft potential solutions. I am to an age where I can imagine that if I don’t eat healthier and exercise more, I won’t be able to do certain things in 20 years.

The risk for cancer is a combination of genes, environment and lifestyle choices. Some of these things we can control, and some we can’t. Experts conclude that 40 percent of cancers could be prevented by lifestyle choices.

Two of the most important controllable factors for breast cancer are maintaining a healthy weight and exercise.

Breast cancer has an indirect relationship with obesity and is a risk factor for breast cancer after menopause. Additionally, overweight women who have had breast cancer have a higher risk of recurrence. Exercise, even moderate amounts, can decrease the risk of postmenopausal breast cancer.

While lifestyle choices can decrease our risk for breast cancer, unfortunately, our two largest risk factors – getting

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older and being female – can’t be mitigated. That is why early detection is important. Advancements in screening with digital and 3D mammograms find cancers at earlier stages. Half of insured women who are eligible for mammograms have not had a mammogram within the last two years. Additionally, one in seven cancers are missed on mammograms. For this reason, a physical exam is an important adjuvant to screening mammograms.

Women who have a high risk of breast cancer based on precancerous breast cells or a strong family history can decrease their risk of breast cancer by 50 percent with medication. Nonetheless, the vast majority of women offered these medications decline.

Choosing a healthy lifestyle, getting recommended screening and taking advantage of advanced medications all make a significant difference. So many people simply don’t do the things they know are good. To do what I should do comes from the inspiration of God, the love of family and friends and at times, my husband’s prod. We all can make important choices that can significantly increase our chances of surviving cancer. But will we?

Breast Care for Life is the understanding and monitoring your individual risk, finding abnormalities as early as possible, receiving a timely cancer diagnosis, providing expert surgical treatment and monitoring you after cancer treatment is complete. It’s about improving the survivability of breast cancer both before and after a cancer diagnosis.

FOCUS ON THE CURE Did You Know?

W

hen a person is diagnosed with breast cancer, tests are then conducted to study the cancer cells.

According to the National Cancer Institute, such tests are used to determine how quickly the cancer may grow and the likelihood that the cancer will spread throughout the body. These tests also may help doctors determine

a course of treatment and if a patient is likely to experience a recurrence of the cancer down the road.

One such test is the estrogen and progesterone receptor test, which measures the amount of estrogen and progesterone receptors in cancer tissue.

The cancer may grow more quickly in patients who have more of these recep-

tors than normal. In addition to measuring the amount of these hormones in the cancer tissue, an estrogen and progesterone test can determine if a treatment aimed at blocking estrogen and progesterone may prevent the cancer from growing.

Source: www.metrocreativeconnection.com

I mproving the survivability of breast cancer before and after a cancer diagnosis by better understanding your individual risk, finding abnormalities as early as possible and receiving coordinated personalized treatment.

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Professional Building 3 16605 Southwest Freeway, Suite 220 Sugar Land, Texas, 77479

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magazine â&#x20AC;˘ October 2015

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FOCUS ON THE CURE

Breast Pathology

Ed Uthman, MD Laboratory Medical Director OakBend Medical Center

N

o cancer diagnosis is made without a biopsy, which is a small sample of the patient’s tumor, typically removed by a radiologist or surgeon. The physician who examines the biopsy is a pathologist. Following college and medical school, the budding pathologist undertakes a minimum of four years of residency training to become board certified and enter practice.

Contrary to the popular image, few pathologists perform autopsies on dead bodies. Modern pathologists are mostly concerned with the care of living patients. Interpreting biopsies is both art and science. In addition to determining the patient has cancer, the pathologist must classify the tumor into one of sev-

eral categories and ascertain how aggressive the cancer is.

Entire textbooks have been written on breast pathology, so there is no way to give it exhaustive coverage here.

However, there is a current issue with breast biopsies that the public needs to be aware of. The most common type of breast cancer is invasive ductal carcinoma. The cells that become malignant begin as normal cells lining the tiny ducts that convey milk from where it is produced to the nipple. When one of these cells turns malignant, it loses its normal inhibition to grow and divide. It multiplies uncontrollably, making millions of other cells that escape the duct, produce a lump, invade nearby tissues, get into lymph vessels and spread to lymph nodes and other organs. The diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma is relatively straightforward, and pathologists almost always agree with each other on the diagnosis in a given case.

Advancements in medical imaging have given us the ability to identify a subset of patients who do not yet have invasive ductal carcinoma. In this group, the abnormal cells are dividing and multiplying, but they have not yet become malignant enough to escape

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their duct and invade other tissues.

There is spectrum of abnormality that these “intraductal” cell proliferations exhibit. The most benign diagnosis in this spectrum is “duct hyperplasia.” The most malignant is “ductal carcinoma in situ,” or DCIS. In between the two is an intermediate grey zone, dubbed “atypical duct hyperplasia,” or ADH. Most physicians and patients see the word “carcinoma” in DCIS and view that as “cancer,” while the ADH diagnosis is something less than or better than cancer.

The DCIS patient may be offered a lumpectomy or mastectomy, while the ADH patient is followed and observed.

This approach is logical in concept, but in reality, there is a significant problem with categorizing a given biopsy.

It turns out that for these intraductal lesions, the distinction between ADH and DCIS is poorly reproducible, and disagreements between pathologists are common.

The takeaway lesson is that it is always a good idea to get a second pathologist’s opinion when presented with a diagnosis of DCIS or ADH. Any disagreement needs to be resolved before treatment, not after.

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Did You Know?

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reast cancer can affect both men and women and is one of the most common forms of cancer.

Thanks to increased awareness and screenings, many cases are diagnosed early and treated successfully. Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) is the most common form of breast cancer, accounting for about 80 percent of all breast cancers.

Although IDC can affect women of any age, it is most common among women age 55 or older. The good news is that this type of cancer is highly curable, provided it has not spread outside of the ducts to other breast tissue. Survival rates for any breast cancers diagnosed in the early stages are excellent.

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magazine • October 2015

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FOCUS ON THE CURE Breast Reconstruction

John T. Nguyen, MD, FICS Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

B

reast reconstruction is one or more operations performed to restore all components of the breast of women who have undergone mastectomy or removal of the entire breast. Breast reconstruction after mastectomy has evolved over the last century to become an integral component in the therapy for many women with breast cancer.

A complete breast reconstruction includes recreating the breast mound, the nipple and areola complex so that the breasts are symmetric with regard to pigmentation, shape, size, projection and position.

The Goals of Breast Reconstruction: To provide permanent breast contour.

To make the breasts look balanced.

To give the convenience of not requiring an external prosthesis.

Breast Reconstruction Can Be Performed Using: Artificial material (a silicone shell filled with either silicone gel or saline) placed under the skin.

The woman’s own tissues (skin, muscle, fat) from another part of the body (flap reconstruction).

Pedicled flap: In this type of flap reconstruction, the tissues remain connected to the area of the body from which they are taken. Specifically, the blood supply to the transplanted tissues is not interrupted.

Free flap: In this type of flap reconstruction, the tissues are cut

off from the original area and grafted to the chest, and a new blood supply is created for the grafted tissues.

A combination of artificial material and the woman’s own tissues.

Timing of Breast Reconstruction: Immediate Versus Delayed Immediate breast reconstruction is reconstruction that is performed at the same time as the mastectomy. Delayed breast reconstruction is reconstruction that is performed weeks, months or years after the mastectomy.

Surgeons differ in their opinions about when breast reconstruction should be performed. If radiation therapy needs to be administered after mastectomy, then breast reconstruction is generally delayed until the skin in the treated area has healed. Excellent results can usually be achieved by either immediate breast reconstruction or delayed breast reconstruction.

Reconstruction Using Implants Implants are designed to recreate the original breast shape and contour.

A breast implant is a silicone shell filled with either silicone gel or saline.

A tissue expander or balloon is inserted beneath the skin and chest muscle either during the mastectomy procedure or at a later operation. The surgeon periodically injects saline into the balloon to gradually fill it over several weeks or months so that the overlying skin can expand. After the skin over the breast area has stretched enough, the tissue expander is removed in a second operation and a permanent breast implant is inserted. Some women do not require tissue expansion before receiving an implant; for these women, the surgeon inserts an implant directly.

Flap Reconstruction Flap reconstruction is a reconstructive surgery in which a flap of skin and fat with or without muscle is transplanted from a part of the body, such as the lower abdomen, back, thigh or

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buttock, to the chest area, where it is shaped to form a new breast mound.

Like the implant surgery, this operation can be performed at the same time as the mastectomy, or it can be delayed.

Advantages of Flap Reconstruction: May eliminate the use of foreign material in the body.

Reconstructed breast usually looks and feels more natural.

Will last the woman’s life span.

When successful, requires minimal touch-up or redo operations throughout a woman’s lifetime.

Disadvantages of Flap Reconstruction: Increased complexity and length of the surgery.

May require a longer recovery period if muscle is included in the reconstruction.

Additional donor site scars.

Some women may require an implant, in addition to the flap reconstruction, for recreating the breast. If flap reconstruction is the selected option for reconstructive surgery, then the surgeon must decide from which part of the body the required tissues are taken. The tissues for breast reconstruction can be taken from the back, abdomen, buttock or thigh.

Reconstruction of the Nipple and Areola Once the breast mound has been reconstructed, the nipple and areola (pigmented area around the nipple) can be recreated approximately two to three months after the first breast reconstructive surgery. A nipple can be created using skin from the inner thigh, behind the ear, reconstructed breast or labia.

The skin can be tattooed to match the other nipple and areola. The reconstructed nipple and areola have very little sensation. Women who decide not to have nipple and areola reconstruction performed can consider the option of nipple prosthesis.

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1893 Salsa 2 Sisters 2Shelleys-Wearable Safety Adorn 512 All Stars Dips Amy’s Unique Boutique Anything Bling Boutique Applicious Treats Baby Bin Boutique BalletForte Be Loved Designs BNR Designs Bunnies and Bows Call Me Gourmet Charity’s Chic Boutique Charmmen Jewelry China Baroque Classy Cowgirl Dreams Classy Sassy Couture ClaudiaG Collection Cloud Mine Cobblestone Cottage Cowboy Junkie Cross My Heart CRU Home D&K Hairware Door Décor by Christine

D’s Iron Designs Dudes & Daisies D’Vine Styles Décor, LLC E B Dazzled Fabulous You Fancy Girl Bow-Tique Fancy Schmancy Décor Fig Tree Jewelry Fleur de C Four B’s Boutique Georgiann’s Designs Gina’s Jewels Glitter Flops and Caps Got to Have Gourmet Texas Pasta Grateful Chics Inspirational Gifts Herta’s Wreaths Houston Landmark Gallery Imagination Unlimited Initially Yours Jack and Jill’s Children’s Boutique JARMZ Designs Jewels by Jeanette Katy Barrel Company Kid’s Anthem La Raye’s Bar-B-Que Sauce, Inc. Laredo Designs

Latte Tots Laugh Out Loud Expressions Leigh Leigh’s Little Lagniappe Lunches of Love Luxe Heavenly Bodies Madi’s Closet Majeza Jewelry Cleaner Mallory Et Cie Jewelry Mayfield’s MD Anderson Cancer Center Children’s Art Project Mis-Tee-V-Us Nectar of the Vine New Hope Candles Nothing Bundt Cakes One Hip Mom One Minute Manicure Orazure Hand Roasted Coffee Pens by Mike Personal Creations by Emily Pink Eyed Sissies Pure & Simple Soy Candles Red Bird Design Rewined Candles Roqqua Jewelry Savory Fine Foods Scentsy Wickless Candles

ShannieGirl Sisters Three Boutique Smock Candy Clothing SnoBall Hut Southern Sister Designs Swedenburg Designs Sweet Nut’hings - Twilight Imports LLC Texana Décor and More The Crooked Antler The Great Texas Pecan Candy Co. The Lipstick Lady The Little Pink Bag The Rusty Barb The Shine Project The Silver Acorn The Wired Canary Third Coast Gifts & Gourmet Trends & Traditions Boutique Tres Chic Tutti Bello Twenty-Two Fifty Interiors Unique Garden Accents V’s Floral Décor and More Will’s Woodworks Wrapped to Wear Zanny Louise Southern Vintage Design

Stafford Centre Performing Arts Theatre & Convention Center Buy your tickets online:

www.sugarplummarket.com y nniversar 15th A

Schedule your mammogram at the Sugar Plum Market.

Stop by the Memorial Hermann booth to sign up and receive a free gift!

This advertisement generously underwritten by absolutely! focus media

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magazine • October 2015

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FOCUS ON THE CURE

Cancer Doesn’t Mean We Have to Stop Living: Regain Your Energy and Vitality!

Dr. Shelena C. Lalji Dr. Shel Wellness & Medical Spa

T

oday, there are 14 million cancer survivors in the United States.

Many continue to suffer from the side effects of cancer and cancer treatments as long as 10 years after completing treatment. These patients are looking for help to restore and maintain their health. Oncologists are focused on pathology and destroying cancer cells but are not usually the source of strategies to restore and maintain healthy function. There are natural solutions to help survivors regain their energy, vitality and quality of life after cancer.

Nutritional Testing and IV Therapy Having the proper balance of essential nutrients is important to feel well, have energy and help prevent the reoccurrence of cancer. This is especially important for cancer patients, since the treatments for cancer can deplete the body of key nutrients. Nutritional Deficiencies Testing is a means to identify which vitamins, minerals, amino acids

and antioxidants a person is deficient in so that they can supplement appropriately.

IV Therapy is a method of delivering important nutrients directly into the bloodstream. By bypassing the digestive system, a person can get the benefit of 100 percent of the nutrients, since they do not have to bypass the digestive system. Some of the most important nutrients that are vital for the prevention of cancer include glutathione, which is the body’s master antioxidant; vitamin C, which helps reduce inflammation in the body and the Myers Cocktail, which can help with energy and overall wellness.

Supplementation with high quality, medical grade supplements are also important. Some of the more important supplements for breast cancer survivors are DIM, which is important in helping to remove unhealthy estrogen metabolites, and N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC), which helps the body produce more of the antioxidant glutathione.

Inflammation, Gut Health and Food Sensitivities Inflammation is one of the primary causes of cancer and all diseases, for that matter. Inflammation in the body originates from the gut. One of the primary causes of an unhealthy gut is the overgrowth of a yeast called candida albicans. Candida overgrowth can commonly occur due to the overuse of antibiotics that kill off the good bacteria in the gut that are essential to keep the candida from taking over.

Another common cause of gut in-

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flammation is food sensitivities. Most people are aware of food allergies, but food sensitivities are much more common and commonly go overlooked, since they do not cause an anaphylactic reaction. The most common food sensitivities are corn, wheat, dairy, soy and eggs. Food Sensitivities Testing is an important part of identifying food sensitivities so that a person can avoid foods causing inflammation in their body.

MonaLisa Touch for Vaginal Atrophy A woman’s sexual wellbeing is also an important part of a life of vitality.

Unfortunately, a condition called Vulvo Vaginal Atrophy (VVA) can commonly occur in women after undergoing cancer treatments. Breast cancer treatment increases the prevalence of VVA, because the surgical and chemotherapeutic agents used in its treatment can cause or exacerbate VVA. A revolutionary treatment for VVA called MonaLisa Touch can restore the vagina to a healthy state and greatly reduce the symptoms associated with VVA, which can include vaginal dryness, irritation and painful intercourse. This procedure is highly effective, fast, painless and completely safe for breast cancer survivors.

Restoring a life full of health, energy and vitality can be achieved with a combination of these natural solutions.

Be your own health advocate, and educate yourself on integrative treatments to ensure long-term health that is cancer free!

absolutely

Plant pink in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month. Add pink to your garden with Wave Petunias and Bubblegum Supertunias, Pink Dianthus, Wendy’s Wish Salvia, English Daisies, Winter Flock and all kinds of pink roses. Visit Enchanted Forest to find your pink inspiration.

Enchanted Forest, 10611 FM 2759 in Richmond; Enchanted Gardens, 6420 FM 359 in Richmond.

Call 281-937-9449 or 281-341-1206; www.myenchanted.com.

Power through with pink tourmaline.

This beautiful, sterling silver bracelet

by Sara Blaine is handcrafted with a toggle clasp. The stones are individually prong set in the leaf motif undercarriage.

J Loggins Jewelers, 14015 Southwest Freeway in Sugar Land. Call 281-242-2900; www.jloggins.com.

Shop at The Vintage Pearl for meaningful, custom handstamped jewelry created with any names, dates or inspirational words – made just for you! Save 20% off your order! (exp. 10/31/15) The Vintage Pearl, 16049 City Walk in Sugar Land Town Square.

Call 281-325-0169; www.thevintagepearl.com.

Johnny Was new jackets and sweaters have arrived at Treasure Hunters Gallery, each featuring a unique twist in detail, material or pattern in the signature Johnny Was aesthetic. Purchase a Johnny Was item, and 10% of sales will be donated to breast cancer research.

Treasure Hunters Gallery, 204 Morton Street in Historic Downtown Richmond.

Call 281-239-0043.

Saturday, October 3rd is Tough Enough to Wear Pink night at the 79th Annual Fort Bend County Fair & Rodeo. Fairgoers are invited to wear pink to help raise awareness of breast cancer, and a donation will be made to the Fort Bend County American Cancer Society.

Fort Bend County Fair & Rodeo, 4310 Highway 36 South in Rosenberg.

Call 281-342-6171; www.fortbendcountyfair.com. fort bend

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By Zeenat Kassam Mitha

Supporting Those Affected

by Domestic Violence

O

ctober is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Domestic Violence occurs in every culture, country and community and affects people from all socioeconomic, religious and educational backgrounds.

“Most of us know someone who has been affected, whether we realize they have been affected or not,” said Vita Goodall, Executive Director, Fort Bend Women’s Center (FBWC). What is heartbreaking is that children are also affected by domestic violence, even if they are not physically abused or do not witness it directly. “Children who grow up in domestic violence often may grow up to be abused or as abusers, and we’d like to stop that cycle now,” stated Goodall.

According to the United States Department of Justice, women are 90 to 95 percent more likely to be victims of domestic violence than men. Women who come to shelters for assistance tend to be those with less capital or greater perceived vulnerability. This includes girls and those experiencing physical or psychiatric disabilities or living below the poverty line. “Often, women who seek assistance have mental health issues, such as post-traumatic stress, anxiety and depression caused by the abuse they experienced,” said Goodall.

Volunteers Debbie Maynard, Don Barkheimer and Vivian McDowell at Boogie 2014 benefiting Fort Bend Women’s Center.

This year, FBWC celebrates 35 years of Healing and Hope. The center was started in 1980 as a crisis hotline for those living with domestic violence or sexual assault in Fort Bend County. Over the years, their mission has remained focused on helping these individuals and their children. Their programs have grown to meet the community’s increasing needs.

Boogie 2014 Chair Dorine Craig and Auction Coordinator Kathy Ebeck.

Currently, FBWC includes a residential shelter and an extensive range of services for those affected by domestic and sexual violence and their children. Their crisis hotline now runs 24 hours a day, seven days a week, throughout the year. In 1989, the FBWC opened PennyWise, a resale center, as a means of providing funds for their growing services. Today, they operate three stores across Fort Bend.

The PennyWise stores not only generate much needed income, they also provide their clients with emergency clothing and the necessities for their new homes when they leave the shelter.

In 1992, transitional housing assistance was introduced, recognizing that many of FBWC’s clients need temporary help to live independently as they work towards self-sufficiency.

This program, which includes in-home visits from their team, as well as rental and other assistance, has reduced the rate of clients returning to their abusers from 65 to 10 percent. “The 20 plus

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Fort Bend Women’s Center Board President Mindy Gross, Executive Director Vita Goodall and Board Member Doug Heath.

innovative programs and services we offer are interrelated to culminate in empowering women and their children to live independent, violence-free lives,” said Mindy Gross, FBWC Board of Directors President. Amongst many things, these programs help women with safety, rebuilding confidence and self-respect.

In 2001, FBWC added an on-site clinic, a learning resource center and improved recreational facilities for their residents’ children. They expanded their services with the launch of their education and outreach program, which aims to prevent abusive relationships from the start, working from elementary to college level and in community settings across Fort Bend County. “We’re here to help, confidentially and free. There’s no judgment here, just help and support. You can be a survivor, and we can help. Call our hotline, 24/7 at 281-342-HELP (4357) and talk to us. We’re here for you,” said Goodall.

Upcoming Event As part of their 35th anniversary celebration, actress, activist and humanitarian Ashley Judd will join the celebration on October 1st at 6:30 pm at The Junior League of Houston. Call 281-344-5750 or visit www.fortbendwomenscenter. org to volunteer or support or for more information on events to raise funds for FBWC, such as Boogie, Gillman Golf and Girlfriends Giggle.

TO SHARE YOUR IDEAS

for upcoming cultural stories and events, contact Cultural Correspondent Zeenat Kassam Mitha at zeenat@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

• Celebrating 23 years in Landscape Design and Installation • 14-year FIRST COLONY and FORT BEND COUNTY resident

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NEWSWORTHY

12th Annual Gulf Coast International Dragon Boat Regatta

Specialist in dentistry for children from 6 months to 17 years of age Friendly, gentle and caring staff Offering Oral and I.V. Sedation Now offering reversal to dental numbness Most major insurances accepted

Little Monsters Costume Contest

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Se Habla Español

Downtown Rosenberg Autumn Festival October 23rd – 25th A Weekend Full of Autumn Fun Live Music, Food & Fun 2 Live Theater Performances by Cast Theatrical Company

Grand Opening of the new 3rd Street Art Park with its new murals and sculpture 10 am “Bark in the Park” Doggie Festival 11 am – 3 pm

Sunday, October 25th

Trunk or Treat A sanctioned Art Show 2 – 4 pm of the Art League of Fort Bend (Noon - 5 pm), with a live music concert continuing into the evening to honor the winners.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • October 2015

72

Photo by Randy Kozlovsky.

Saturday, October 24th

It’s been nearly a year since dragons have been seen on Brooks Lake, but they will return on October 24th and 25th from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm for the 12th Annual Gulf Coast International Dragon Boat Regatta. Over 40 teams have already registered, including paddlers from all across the United States, as well as Canada. The nationally ranked Steers, just off victories at the 12th World Nations Championships in Welland, Canada, will work with local teams to enhance their paddling experience.

David M. Mandell, Executive Director of the Texas Dragon Boat Association, and his team are planning a weekend of fun and excitement that you won’t want to miss. There is still time for teams and individuals to register to participate. The event is free to the public and a great family event held on the waters of Brooks Lake at Fluor Daniels Campus in Sugar Land. Over 5,000 people are expected to attend this wonderful weekend Regatta.

There are also a few spaces available for product sales and food vendors.

Email texasdragonboat@yahoo.com or visit www.texasdragonboat.com for more information on sponsorships, vendors, committee and volunteer opportunities.

Yang Si, Zeenat Mitha, Beth Arlington, Isis Smalls, Varun Gupta, Eve Ruhlman, Himesh Gandhi, Li Qiangmin and Eugene Lee at the 2014 opening ceremony.

Love Where You Live.

2015-2016 officers for the Fort Bend Panhellenic Board Lucia Jackson, Barbara DiBlasi Marlin, Liz Stegall and Courtney McCollister.

Fort Bend County Panhellenic Alumnae Announces Events for the Year Fort Bend Panhellenic is thrilled about plans for the upcoming school year and extends an invitation to all National Panhellenic Conference alumnae sorority women in the Fort Bend area to join and be a part of the excitement. Their 201516 upcoming events include a fine arts performance at Creative Dreams Outreach Center on October 15th, Kendra Gives Back to benefit the Panhellenic Scholarship Fund on November 10th, a Women’s Health and Nutrition Seminar in January 2016, a social at Pinot’s Palette in February, a recruitment workshop on March 5th and the group’s traditional Bunco Party to finish the year. Fort Bend Panhellenic’s focus this year is “Focusing on Philanthropy.”

Fort Bend Panhellenic hosts two very special events each year: a scholarship program for active collegiate sorority members and a spring recruitment information workshop for high school senior and collegiate girls and their parents.

Both are beneficial events that support girls in the community.

Membership in Fort Bend Panhellenic is open to initiated alumnae of any of the 26 national sororities that make up the National Panhellenic Conference.

Visit www.fortbendpanhellenic.org for more information. Join their Facebook group under Fort Bend Alumnae Panhellenic or email your name, sorority and email address to fortbendpanhellenic@ hotmail.com to stay up to date on Fort Bend Panhellenic’s activities.

Our design professionals are here to help you select from every style and top brand of flooring, counter-top, cabinet and tile you need at prices you’ll love.

Visit our showroom today or schedule a personal appointment 1116 E HWY 90 A • Richmond, Texas 77406 • (281) 762-9999 www.idealcarpetandflooring.com

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magazine • October 2015

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STARTING AT

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Join us on Facebook Facebook.com/FortBendFocus

Announcing the return of old favorites in our clothing lines:

Johnny Was Collection JWLA Judith March

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Historic Downtown Richmond 304 Morton St. Richmond, Texas 77469 281-435-1191 Open: Mon. – Sat. 10:00 – 5:30

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Win ticket giveaways to area attractions and events!

Blaze Fast Fire’d Pizza Brings Artisanal Eats to Sugar Land Blaze Fast Fire’d Pizza, the fast-casual artisanal pizza concept known for its chef-driven menu and casually hip restaurants, opened its first Houston area location in Sugar Land on July 30th.

The new restaurant, which features a thoughtfully designed 2,300 square-foot interior with seating for 60 inside and an outdoor patio, is located at 16100 Kensington Drive.

Blaze Pizza is a modern day “pizza joint” serving up artisanal pizzas that are both fast and affordable. Since its first restaurant debuted in 2012, Blaze has quickly become one of the nation’s hottest restaurant concepts, with fans lining up each day for the custom-built pizzas, fresh salads, orange lemonade and s’more pies.

Each restaurant features an openkitchen format that allows guests to customize signature pizzas or create their own, choosing from a wide selection of fresh, artisanal ingredients – all for about $8. The generously-sized personal pizzas are then sent to a blazing hot, open-flame oven, where dedicated pizza-smiths ensure that the thin-crust pies are fast-fire’d and ready to eat in just 180 seconds.

Blaze Pizza uses a dough recipe developed by critically-acclaimed Executive Chef Bradford Kent, a.k.a. the “Pizza Whisperer.” The recipe requires a 24 hour fermentation period to produce his signature light-as-air, crisp crust. For pizza fans with specific dietary needs, Blaze Pizza offers gluten-free dough and vegan cheese. The Sugar Land restaurant also features a selection of wine and craft beer.

For more information, call 281-4910275 or visit www.blazepizza.com.

OUR

NEWEST DOCTOR WILL SEE

YOU NOW Naureen Ahmeduddin, D.O. Family Medicine

To make an appointment, call 281.277.0695 or schedule online at mhmg.memorialhermann.org Memorial Hermann Medical Group Sweetwater 16550 Southwest Freeway, Suite B Sugar Land, TX 77479

Integrity, Honesty, and Service to Others

INTERNATIONAL PREPARATORY SCHOOL Pre-K3 – 8th Grade

Currently Registering for the 3 Year Old Program Available After School Programs:

For More Information

Call: 281-208-1403

Homework Assistance • Art • Voice Guitar • Piano • Chess Club Private School Interscholastic Association Academic Competitions After School Program available until 6:30 pm.

www.ipspanthers.com 1717 DULLES AVE. • MISSOURI CITY • TX 77459 • FAX 281-208-1426 fort bend

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NEWSWORTHY

The Fort Bend Junior Service League and Sponsors Partner For 15th Annual Sugar Plum Market

Kim Zeiner, Kimberly Hays Camp, Dana Clement, Greg and Alison Haralson, Patti Parish-Kaminski, Cheryl Bertrand, Andrea Faz, Pam Spencer, Jamie Hill and Jim Brown.

Comprehensive, compassionate and cutting edge care for women of all phases.

Minimally Invasive & Robotic Surgery Adolescent Gynecology Routine and High Risk Obstetrics Wellness Exams & Contraception Evaluation & Treatment of Pelvic Pain Treatment of Menopausal Symptoms Preconception & Infertility Counseling Ann Bertles, MD Board Certified Ob/Gyn

4D Ultrasound in Office

Second Opinions Welcome

832.437.9690 (p) | 832.437.9694 (f) 23232 Kingsland Blvd., Ste. E, Katy, TX 77494 www.myobgynofkaty.com TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • October 2015

76

The Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) and Memorial Hermann invite the community to join them as they “Let it Snow” during the 15th Annual Sugar Plum Market. The event will be held at the Stafford Centre Performing Arts Theatre and Convention Center Friday, November 6th and Saturday, November 7th. Preview Night has been set for the evening of Thursday, November 5th.

Last year’s Market raised a recordbreaking $258,000, which benefited 18 charitable organizations in Fort Bend County. “The reach of the Fort Bend Junior Service League spans throughout our community with their mission of service and giving, and there is no event where this is more evident than their annual Sugar Plum Market,” said Patti Parish-Kaminski, Publisher, absolutely! focus media. “The scope of this event and the support provided to our community as a direct result is phenomenal.

We have been privileged to serve as a sponsor of this event for several years,

and it is an honor to support these ladies and their work. We look forward to many more years of working together all for the common good: our community.”

Sponsorship and underwriting opportunities are available ranging from $250 to $10,000 with a variety of benefits suited to both individuals and businesses, such as event signage, website and program recognition, plus Preview Night tickets with early sponsor entry. In addition to the Sugar Plum Market’s title sponsor, Memorial Hermann, top sponsors to date include the City of Stafford, Pamela Printing, Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes, absolutely! focus media, Trustmark Bank, and H-E-B. General Admission tickets are $12, and a limited quantity of Preview Night tickets are available for $75. Both are available for purchase online at www. sugarplummarket.com. General Admission tickets may also be purchased at local Randalls stores and at the door on Market days.

For information on sponsorship opportunities, visit www.sugarplummarket. com or call 281-636-6272.

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BUSINESS BRIEFS

Sugar Land Council Member Harish Jajoo Announces Mayoral Campaign

Sugar Land City Council Member Harish Jajoo has announced his candidacy for mayor of Sugar Land in the May 2016 general election. A fiscal conservative who believes in low taxes and disciplined spending, Jajoo is a strong advocate of public safety and has served on City Council representing District 4 since June 2011.

“It has been my honor and privilege to serve on City Council, and I want to continue serving the residents of Sugar Land as mayor of our great city.” Cur-

rent Sugar Land Mayor James Thompson is term-limited and cannot seek reelection.

During his tenure on Council, Jajoo has overseen several economic development projects such as Constellation Field, recruitment and retention of major employers such as Texas Instruments, Nalco, the future relocation of the Fluor Corporation and the transition of UHSugar Land to a branch of the University of Houston’s Tier I central campus.

Jajoo also helped shepherd critical infra-

structure projects to completion, such as the surface water plant, expansion of University Boulevard and Dulles Avenue and the city’s sidewalk and pavement rehabilitation program.

A registered civil engineer and urban infrastructure professional, Jajoo served 29 years as an executive with the City of Houston’s Department of public prior to holding elected office in Sugar Land.

“I am running because I know that together we can make Sugar Land an even more prosperous, friendly and exciting

D.I.Y. PizZa BLAZE PIZZA. YOU NAME IT, WE BUILD IT.

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D&S Antiques & Collectibles Mall •in Historical Downtown Rosenberg•

Enjoy The Sights & Sounds While You Shop Around!

D&S Refinishing & Restoration • Caning • Weaving • Some Reupholstery • Complete Repair and Refinishing Shop • Sewing Machine Repair • Scissor Sharpening Full Line of Howard Wood Care Products Like Us or Follow Us

Wed-Sat 10-5 Sun 12-5 • 801 2nd Street 281-232-0035 or 832-595-9600 Come shop with us, then explore Historic Downtown’s 3 restaurants and 12 other antique & boutique shops.

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.com • October 2015

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Holiday Open House

Thursday, October 29th

20% OFF DURING

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE (some exclusions apply)

◆

10am - 6pm

◆

VSA & Chan Luu Jewelry Bella Notte Linens & Lili Alessandra Bedding

Lite Bites & Drinks Mark Roberts Fairies, Nativities & Ornaments Custom Holiday Florals and Trees

Sugar Land City Council Member Harish Jajoo.

place to live, work and play,” said Jajoo, “As mayor, I will work to ensure that Sugar Land maintains a high quality of life, a business-friendly environment and an efficient road and traffic system.”

Jajoo, his wife Shashi and their family have called Sugar Land their home for the past 30 years. They have been involved in various civic, community and non-profit organizations. For more information, visit www.JajooForSugarLand. com.

281.265.2250 • F: 1.877.402.0210 • www.twentytwofiftyinteriors.com 2250 Lone Star in Sugar Land Town Square Scheduling In Home Holiday Decorating today! Please call 281.265.2250 to schedule!

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A

M

A

T

E

U

R

P

H

O

T

O

C

O

N

T

E

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October 2015 Winner “Solitude in Wrangell, AK”

By Joe Schmitt Congratulations Joe, 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 Adrienne at 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 • October 2015

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Dr. Katia Lemke, DMD Orthodontic Specialist

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Insurance & Flexible Financing Available

281.277.3555 www.lemkeortho.com 4907 Sandhill Dr., Suite B

Benefiting

®

You are invited to the 21st annual

American Girl Fashion Show at the Junior League of Houston

Saturday, November 14 Breakfast—10:00 a.m.

Lunch—1:00 p.m.

Sunday, November 15 Lunch—1:00 p.m.

Tea—4:00 p.m.

Enjoy elegant refreshments, enter to win prizes, and learn how clothing has changed over the years to reflect history, culture and girls’ individual styles during this fun-filled presentation of historical and contemporary fashions.

Birthday Packages available starting at $2,000 Runway Tables available starting at $1,650 Individual Tickets available starting $50 VIP Model Packages available for $150 Purchase Online or by Phone: www.hitsfashionshow.com Phone: 713.904.3777 311 W. 18th Street

Benefiting HITS Theatre Houston, TX 77008 www.hitstheatre.org fort bend

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•

Sugar Land, TX 77479

OUT & ABOUT

Texana’s People Assisting LifeChanging Services (PALS) mingled during a relaxing evening with great friends, wine and hors d’ouevres, and Kate Johnson-Patagoc shared her wisdom on the art of bringing out the best in people.

IN THE HEART

May Tape and Sue Fagan.

OF THE BEND

Wanda Sdao, Vanessa Vara, Dorine Craig and Kate JohnsonPatagoc.

Laura Richard and Andi Wallis.

Lucia Street and Mary Favre.

Laura Leatherwood and Liz Furman.

Sandra Templeton and Betty Baitland.

June Joseph-Steele and Cee Cee Parker.

Vickie Coates and Linda Day.

The Fort Bend Junior Service League welcomed new members at its Annual Sustainer New Member Coffee at the Sugar Land home of CeeCee and David Parker.

Norma Petrosewicz and Jessica Kij.

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend

.com • October 2015

82

The 16th Annual Fort Bend Education Foundation’s Back to School Scramble Golf Tournament was held at Sweetwater Country Club. Thanks to the generosity of this year’s participants, the event netted $115,500 for the Fort Bend Education Foundation. The 256 golfers who played in the tournament enjoyed lunch from Chick-fil-A and an awards banquet at the end of the day.

Photos by Paul Gor and Kay James.

Dave Rosenthal, Mike Siwierka and Doug Calame.

Stanley Stein and Norward Richardson.

Bill Jordan, Kevin Hermis and Frank Petras.

Melinda Henry and Nell Clingman.

Wade Hanegan, Charles Dupre and Kay James.

Carol Evans, Claude Leatherwood and Brenna Cosby.

Terri Wang, Sam Golden, Lynn Halford and Peggy Jackson.

State Senator Lois W. Kolkhorst hosted a Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting for her new district office in Katy.

Allison Wen and Nell Ciancarelli.

Larissa Pennington Plunto with Jim and Lois Kolkhorst and Amy Mitchell.

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Lois Kolkhorst and Rebecca Fox.

83

OUT &

The Fort Bend County Fair and Grapes on the Brazos with the Rosenberg Arts Alliance hosted the Downtown Stomp in Historic Downtown Rosenberg.

The downtown shops offered extended hours for shopping and wine tasting.

ABOUT IN THE HEART

OF THE BEND Jimmie Kocian, Linda Rulau, Wanda Kolkhorst and Margie Nowak.

Photo by Sean McDew.

Karen Mullins, Kristin Sillavan, Susan Sillavan Forbes, Barbara Magana-Robertson and Brenda Sillavan.

Quartermaster 3rd Class Cole Murphy from Jamaica, New York and Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Justin Coomes from Stafford steered USS Porter during a replenishment-at-sea with USNS Bighorn in September. Porter, an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, forward-deployed to Rota, Spain, was on a routine patrol.

Carl Drozd and Larry Deats.

Kay Garrett and Judy Deats.

Tim and Patti Kaminski.

Sue Syverton and Jules Fuchs.

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The Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) Southwest Region’s Stronger Together Luncheon at the Ismaili Jamatkhana and Center recognized the host committee and emissaries to promote the September AKF Sugar Land 5K Run at Sugar Land Memorial Park.

Amy Mitchell, Harish Jajoo and Murad Ajani.

Qaisar Imam, Kevin Barker, Ike Mitha, Suleman Lalani and Farha Ahmed.

Peta Gay-Ledbetter, Tracy Faulkner, Paul Pass, Teresa Cox-Reading and Kaberi and Ruchi Mukerjee.

Sugar Land Orthodontist Dr. Dennis E. Halford treated his Halford Helpers to a private viewing at Star Cinema in August. Halford Helpers is a summer program that allows patients to come into the office to “work” and learn about orthodontics for a few hours one day. The patients love getting to help Halford and his staff.

Dennis Halford, Sanjit Juneja, Eric Moa, Richard and David Denny, Michael Stephan, Michael Rowe, Noah Silva, Sydney Guy, Emily Christman, Charlene Pulvinar, Claire Walters, Leah Hotze, Joy Stephan, Gracie Workman, Meredith Daulton, Sofia Souza, Madison Silva, Noah Arnell, Samantha Doherty, William Bradford, Justin Rowe, Ashlynn and Brooke Sems, Hunter and Hannah Hotze, Grayson Stapp, Trace Scheffer, Brandon Stapp, Cade Doherty, Henry Norton, Ryan Rowe, Amy Dalton, Tammy Scheffer, Melissa Silva, Deepak Jagannath, Allyson Martinez, Meybelin Bueso and Janie Fritsch. fort bend

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JOIN US FOR THE 2015-16 SUGAR LAND SERIES.

MEDICAL FOCUS

Andrés Orozco-Estrada, Music Director

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Offers Free Flu Shots to Benefit Santa’s Exchange

3-CONCERT SERIES FOR AS LOW AS $69 Subscribe Today! houstonsymphony.org | (713) 224-7575 Houston Symphony’s Sugar Land Series is held at Sugar Land Baptist Church.

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With the holiday season around the corner, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is once again offering Fort Bend residents the opportunity to “give a gift and beat the flu.” In collaboration with the Exchange Club of Sugar Land, Fort Bend Exchange Club, Rotary Club of Sugar Land, Rotary Club of Fort Bend and Toys for Tots Fort Bend, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital will offer free flu shots on Saturday, October 24th to community members who participate in Santa’s Gift Exchange.

Fort Bend and surrounding area residents can bring a new, unwrapped toy or clothing item to the main lobby of Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital from 8 am to noon in exchange for a free flu shot. The toys and clothing will benefit local children in the Fort Bend area.

“We are proud to partner with the local exchange clubs and Toys for Tots once again to provide this community offering,” said Chris Siebenaler, CEO of Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “This is a great way for the community to stay healthy while also putting smiles on children’s faces during the holiday season.”

In 2014, Santa’s Gift Exchange provided toys and clothing to more than 4,000 economically disadvantaged children in Fort Bend County. “Everyone’s help is needed to meet the challenge of providing toys for our children who will not have toys this year without our help,” said Jim Kij, co-chairman of Santa’s Exchange 2015. “We are looking forward to partnering with Houston Methodist Sug-

281-242-FEET (3338) Call Today to schedule your visit

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We Treat Many Common Foot Problems Including:

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David Alexander, Doerthe Gottschalk, Jim Kij, Marcia Barham, Jessica Gilbert, Laura Littlejohn, Leena Taneja and Melissa Montemayor.

ar Land Hospital for a sixth year. This is a great collaboration. Get a flu shot, and in return, you are able to give back to the children in this community.” Kij is a 14 year member of the Exchange Club of Sugar Land and a past president.

“Our community is well-known for its philanthropic values, so we encourage you to participate by dropping off toys or clothing even if you have already had your flu shot,” Siebenaler said.

The flu vaccine is formulated to provide protection against three different flu viruses – H1N1, H3N2 and influenza B. Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital will distribute a limited supply of the influenza vaccine to persons age 18 and over with no history of egg or latex allergy. If you are pregnant, please visit your OB/GYN or primary care physician to have your vaccine administered.

For more information, call 281-2747972.

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27 years experience in Texas fort bend

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NEWSWORTHY

Parks Youth Ranch Announces Cowboy Up 2015 Photo by Liz Furman.

The Parks Youth Ranch (PYR) Board of Directors is once again saddling up for success! Cowboy Up, PYR’s annual fundraiser, will be held on Saturday, October 3rd at The George Ranch Historical Park Arena. Since the inaugural event in 2012, Cowboy Up event supporters have donated more than $500,000 to fund operations at the emergency shelter for atrisk and homeless children.

The Fred and Mabel R. Parks Youth Ranch opened its doors in March 2011 to address a gap in services for abused, at-risk and homeless youth. PYR is a 20 bed emergency shelter located in Fort Bend County that is able to accommodate 10 boys and 10 girls ages seven to 17. PYR’s mission is to provide emergency shelter, counseling and life-changing services to these children. 2015 has been a very important year for PYR’s mission! The organization is extremely pleased to have provided over 28,000 nights of peace and security to our most vulnerable population.

“Strapping on their spurs” as Honorary Chairs for 2015 Cowboy Up are Carole and Robert C. Brown, III. Longtime Sugar Land residents, Bob and Carole have deep roots in Fort Bend County. Both have donated countless hours for various

Shannon Bloesch, Dick Hogan, Holly Kaminga and Mary Favre, Bob and Carole Brown and Shanna Wozny.

charitable organizations in their 60 plus years together, and Bob has served on the PYR Board of Directors since 2009. Joining Bob and Carole at the event are local radio personality Michele Fisher as event emcee and Ray Aguilar as the event auctioneer.

New features this year include live music by The Rankin Twins, a spirit pull and bourbon tasting, plus exclusive handcrafted PYR pottery. There will be lots of great food and fun, boot-worthy dancing for all to enjoy!

Here’s your chance to put on your boots and hat and party with a purpose. A variety of sponsorship and underwriting opportunities are available from $250 to $15,000. General admission tickets are also available for $75 each. Join PYR for a very special evening benefiting the future of at-risk and homeless youth. PYR is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization providing a “home for today” and “hope for tomorrow.”

For more information on sponsorship or general admission tickets, visit the PYR website at www.parksyouthranch. org or contact Parks Youth Ranch Executive Director Shannon Bloesch at smbloesch@parksyouthranch.org.

Fort Bend Resident Chronicles the Integration of Athletics at the University of Houston in the 1960s Retired history instructor and longtime Fort Bend resident Robert D. Jacobus, formerly at Foster High School in Richmond and Wharton County Junior College, wrote a book entitled Houston Cougars in the 1960s: Death Threats, the Veer Offense and the Game of the Century, to be published by Texas A&M University Press on October 23rd.

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Houston Cougars in the 1960s features the first person accounts of the players, coaches and others involved in the integration of collegiate athletics in Houston, telling the gripping story of the visionary coaches, courageous athletes and committed supporters who blazed a trail, not only for athletic success but for racial equality in 1960s Houston.

Coach Guy V. Lewis integrated the University of Houston basketball program in 1964, when he recruited two young black men from Louisiana, Elvin Hayes and Don Chaney. By their senior season in 1968, Hayes and Chaney led the Cougars to a victory over the mighty University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Bruins in college basketball’s “Game of the Century” in the Houston Astrodome on January 20, 1968.

Also in 1964, College Football Hall of Fame Coach Bill Yeoman, a Sugar Land resident for the last 40 years, recruited running back Warren McVea from San Antonio to integrate the football program. By McVea’s senior season in 1967, the Cougars led the nation in total offense and also blazed a trail of integration throughout the South.

Robert Jacobus will hold book signings at the following Fort Bend locations in December: Sunday, December 6th 2 – 4 pm Barnes and Noble First Colony Mall Sugar Land, TX 77479

presented by Fort Bend Junior Service League & MeMoriaL HerMann

Preview Night Thursday, November 5th 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Friday, November 6th Saturday, November 7th 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Stafford Centre Performing Arts Theatre & Convention Center

www.sugarplummarket.com y nniversar 15th A

Schedule your mammogram at the Sugar Plum Market.

Stop by the Memorial Hermann booth to sign up and receive a free gift!

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Saturday, December 19th 10 am – Noon Mugz Coffee Bar 503 FM 359, Suite 190 Richmond, TX 77406

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What’s your favorite?

Vote for your favs in our annual Readers’ Choice of Fort Bend’s Favorites, and see who wins the title of Focus Fav in the December 2015 issue.

Visit website at fortbendfocus.com

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90

Brandani’s Restaurant & Wine Bar

Crab Cake topped with crispy leeks

By Alisa Murray

W

ell folks, I am a southern gal from North Carolina, and one thing I know is my fried chicken. Brandani’s not only has the best in Texas, but in North Carolina as well. There’s a special sauce that owner and Executive Chef Ron Brandani makes called jalapeño gravy, and I lovingly refer to it as “crack,” because it’s past good – it’s amazing! Initially, that is what drew me in to visit this power couple’s new restaurant, and the rest has been every bit as delish.

Ron Brandani, Alisa Murray and Claire Brandani

Ron and Claire Brandani remind me a lot of Brian and me in that their business is a family affair. They each play a pivotal role in creating both an experience of fine dining and amazing dishes that are beautifully plated and seasoned to perfection. Ron, a Galveston native, cooked with Danish Chef Tommy Broberg, who is in part credited with inspiring Ron to become the amazing chef he is today. Claire is a third generation Houstonian. Their menu is filled with seasonal fresh vegetables, and the couple uses local farmers and supports our community by giving back.

Ron likes cooking things he knows and that has proven to please his friends and family. I asked him about his style. “I like big flavors. I don’t think you should have to season your food when you go out to eat. My dad taught me how to make homemade red sauce when I was five, so I feel most of my food has an Italian heart.”

Salmon and Risotto drizzled with a roasted tomato vinaigrette

I had the Breakfast for Dinner, which is smoked deviled eggs, potato latke and Ron’s famous candied bacon.

By the way, that bacon is Mrs. Patti’s favorite! The Crab Cake is second runner-up for me as the best of his menu.

I have had many off the coast of South Carolina and Georgia, and none can compare to his! Ron makes it with panko breadcrumbs, jumbo lump crabmeat, lemon beurre blanc and crispy leeks.

There are several salads on the menu. Brandani’s Salad consists of mixed greens, apples, dried cranberries, pine nuts, tear drop tomatoes, chicken, croutons and avocado ranch dressing. As for main entrées, I have had many of his pasta dishes, and they are all amazing. The Salmon and Risotto is delicious with infused saffron and leek risotto, asparagus and tear drop tomatoes, drizzled with a roasted tomato vinaigrette. The Snapper is equally delightful. Wild caught Gulf Snapper finished with an orange chili sauce with kumquats is served with sautéed baby kale and gingered sweet potatoes. Then there’s the chicken served with mashed potatoes and that jalapeño gravy!

Ron’s favorite is his 16 ounce Porterhouse Pork Chop. He cold smokes and then pan sears a porcini crusted pork fort bend

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Pumpkin Spice Cake

chop, finishes it with a gorgonzola dolce and porcini cream sauce and serves it with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables. The S’mores Silk Pie – James Edward’s favorite – is made with a graham cracker crust, chocolate ganache, chocolate mousse and toasted marshmallows. The Pumpkin Spice Cake is a family recipe of Claire’s. The couple offers a full wine bar and has regular tastings and pairings, so check out their events schedule.

The atmosphere at Brandani’s is both family-friendly and well appointed for fine dining. The walls are graced with oil paintings by Ron’s mother.

One painting she did long before Ron and Claire made the decision to become restaurateurs is a scene of Brandani’s Restaurant. Sometimes, parents catch the vision for their children long before it becomes a reality. That’s something else I have in common with this lovely couple.

Dine at Brandani’s, and ask for some jalapeño gravy to go! Bon appétit!

Brandani’s Restaurant & Wine Bar 3340 FM 1092, Suite 160 Missouri City, TX 77459 832-987-1313

absolutely!

DELICIOUS

T

How to Host a Mad Scientist Halloween Party

ransform your house into Frankenstein’s lab with a few party tricks and Halloween treats. Set the scene with a mad scientist-themed sweets table, and carry it home with a crazy good menu featuring frightfully yummy appetizers, mocktails and of course, treats. For more Halloween party ideas and inspiration, visit www.wilton.com.

Prepare cake mix according to box instructions, and make two layers using 6 inch round pans. Bake and cool on cooling grid.

Prepare Spring Green icing using this color tint formula from the Color Right Performance Color System: 4 cups icing + 30 Y + 6 B. Stack layers on cake plate for a two-layer cake, using leveler as needed. Ice cake sides smooth with green icing.

Use black pouch icing without tip to cover top of cake. Use tip of spatula to create spiral effect. Use black pouch icing with star tip to pipe pull-out bangs around top edge and two hair strands on cake top.

Prepare a disposable decorating bag with green icing; cut a hole in point of bag the size of tip 3. Attach candy eyeballs with dots of green icing. Pipe green eyelids.

Use black pouch icing with round tip to pipe dot nose and neck bolts, outline mouth and stitches.

T

he Guest of Horror: You can’t have a mad scientist Halloween party without Frankenstein. This easy buttercream cake makes a big statement, a fantastic centerpiece for your sweets table and will make others green with envy over your decorating skills.

Frankenstein Cake Serves 12

TOOLS • 6 Cups favorite cake recipe or mix • 4 Cups Wilton White Ready-To-Use Decorator Icing (4.5 pound tub) System • Black icing pouch with tips • Large candy eyeballs

• 6-by-3-inch round pan • 10-by-16-inch cooling grid • Cake plate • Cake leveler • Angled spatula • Disposable decorating bags

L

ittle Monsters Mocktail: Play mixologist with a perfect potion recipe featuring a few easy ingredients: apple juice, club soda and delicious drops of Treatology flavor concentrates in taste-tempting Cinnamon Graham and Creamy Vanilla Custard flavors.

Apple Pie Potion Makes 8 to 10 servings

• 1 Liter club soda, chilled • 5 Cups apple juice, chilled • 7 Drops Wilton Treatology Warm Cinnamon Graham Flavor Concentrate • 3 Drops Wilton Treatology Creamy Vanilla Custard Flavor Concentrate • 4 Drops Wilton Yellow Color Right Performance Color • 1 Drop Wilton Blue Color Right Performance Color In large pitcher, combine club soda, apple juice, Warm Cinnamon Graham and Vanilla Custard flavors and colors. Whisk until well combined. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.

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C

hili Mac Cup Concoction: Use a regular muffin pan to bake mac and cheese cups – a fun twist on the kids’ favorite. The macaroni cups are the perfect chili topper for a hearty fall favorite.

Mac and Cheese Cups with Chili Makes 24 servings

• 2 Tablespoons butter • 1/4 Cup all-purpose flour • 2 Cups milk • 8 Ounces white American cheese, shredded

• 1 Package (8 ounces) Monterey Jack cheese, shredded • 1/4 Teaspoon onion powder • 1/4 Teaspoon dry mustard

• 1/4 Teaspoon ground black pepper • 1 Package (16 ounces) elbow pasta, cooked and kept warm • 2 Cans chili, 25 ounces each

Heat oven to 350°F. Prepare two muffin pans with vegetable pan spray.

In large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir flour into butter and cook 2 minutes on medium heat, stirring constantly.

Gradually whisk milk into flour mixture and cook until thickened, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and stir in cheeses, onion powder, dry mustard and pepper. Stir in cooked pasta.

Divide evenly into prepared pans. Bake 15 minutes or until bubbly. Cool in pans 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, in saucepan, heat chili according to package directions. Serve each macaroni cup on top of 1/4 cup chili.

Tip: To make ahead, refrigerate macaroni and cheese cups in muffin pans after baking. When ready to serve, remove from pans and microwave 30 to 45 seconds each until heated through.

C

andy Corn Craze: Halloween wouldn’t be the same without candy, especially candy corn. Wow guests with your inventive use of the iconic Halloween flavor.

Candy Corn Cupcakes Makes 2 dozen cupcakes

• 1 Package (16.25 ounces) white cake mix • Egg whites, water and vegetable oil to prepare mix • 17 Drops Wilton Orange Color Right Performance Color • 3 Drops Wilton Yellow Color Right Performance Color • Package (10 ounces) Wilton Limited Edition Candy Corn Candy Melts Candy

• 1/4 Cup heavy whipping cream • 2/3 Cup solid vegetable shortening • 2 Tablespoons honey • 1 Teaspoon Wilton Imitation Clear Vanilla Extract • 2 Cups confectioners’ sugar • Candy corn for garnish, optional

Heat oven to 350°F. Prepare muffin pans with baking cups.

In large bowl, beat cake mix, egg whites, water and colors with electric mixer at low speed 30 seconds. Scrape bottom and sides of bowl; beat at medium speed 2 minutes. Divide batter evenly among baking cups, filling about 2/3 full.

Bake 18 to 20 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool cupcakes in pans on cooling grid 5 minutes. Remove from pans; cool completely on grid.

In medium microwave-safe container, combine Candy Corn Candy Melts Candy and heavy cream. Microwave at 50 percent power 1 minute. Stir. Microwave on half power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until melts are almost melted. Stir thoroughly until mixture is smooth. Cool slightly.

In large bowl, beat shortening with electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add Candy Melts mixture and beat until smooth.

Beat in honey and vanilla. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar and beat until light and fluffy. Pipe or spread onto cooled cupcakes. Top with candy corn, if using.

Source: Family Features

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EVENTS October 2nd – 3rd, 11 am Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo Championship BBQ Cookoff Don’t miss this culinary competition as teams fire up the pits in pursuit of the Grand Champion BBQ team title at the Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo, located at 4310 Highway 36 South in Rosenberg. The Fair runs through October 4th, and proceeds help contribute to scholarships and other opportunities for the youth of Fort Bend County.

Visit www.fortbendcountyfair.com.

October 9th, 6:30 – 9 pm Family Fun Night: Bugs You’ll Love The Fort Bend County Master Gardeners and Missouri City Green will be on hand to teach participants about helpful insects, spread the word about Missouri City’s new recycling initiative and share cool bug displays, including an outdoor black light exhibit! Families will also enjoy bug themed activities, crafts and snacks at Missouri City’s Recreation and Tennis Center, located at 2701 Cypress Point Drive. Call 281-403-8637 or visit www.missouricitytx.gov.

October 10th, 10 am – 1 pm Rebuilding the American Dream: Home-Buying 101

Gabriel Cote, William R. Adams and Alex Dewey.

October 3rd, 9 am Walk in Concert with the Fort Bend Boys Choir!

The First Colony Branch Library, located at 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land, will present a panel discussion about the process of buying or refinancing a home. Learn about the importance of budgeting for down payments and closing costs, house payments, homeowners insurance, property taxes and other expenses that come with owning a home. Call 281-238-2800.

October 10th, 10 – 11:30 am Heritage Tour

The Fort Bend Boys Choir is gearing up for its 12th walk-a-thon! Walk in Concert will be held at Oyster Creek Park, located at 4033 Highway 6 in Sugar Land. Participants will complete a three-mile walk and receive a walk-a-thon t-shirt.

Proceeds will help support the Fort Bend Boys Choir’s music programs, including scholarships for young boys in need. To sponsor, pledge or participate, call 281-240-3800 or visit www.fbbctx.org.

October 3rd, 6 – 11 pm Fall Classic Charity Fundraiser Join the Sugar Land Rotary Club for a happy hour, bid board, live auction, fantastic food and fellowship at Sweetwater Country Club, located at 4400 Palm Royale Boulevard in Sugar Land.

As Sugar Land Rotary’s only fundraiser, the event allows guests to have fun while supporting many local Fort Bend County non-profit organizations and the Rotary Foundation’s international initiatives. Visit www.rotaryfallclassic.com.

Join the historic walking tours of Old Sugar Land beginning at the Sugar Land Heritage Foundation, located at 198 Kempner Street in Sugar Land.

Ticket fees are $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 12 to 18. Children under 12 are admitted free. To make a reservation or schedule a private tour, contact slheritage@slheritage.org or call 281-494-0261.

Carranza Puppets.

October 12th, 1:30 – 2:30 pm Fall Marionette Puppet Show In celebration of autumn, the First Colony Branch Library, located at 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land, invites families with children of all ages to a Fall Marionette Puppet Show featuring exquisitely handcrafted marionettes from the Carranza Puppet Theater. This marionette variety show features music and surprises, from a one-eyed purple people eater to dancing pumpkins!

Call 281-238-2800.

October 15th, 6 – 7:30 pm Senior Bingo Night Senior citizens ages 50 and up are invited to fellowship with their peers, enjoy refreshments and play competitive rounds of bingo for great prizes at the Recreation and Tennis Center, located at 2701 Cypress Point Drive in Missouri City. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the door. Call 281-403-8637 or visit www.missouricitytx.gov.

October 10th, 2 – 4 pm Hear About Space Exploration

October 17th, 9 am – Noon Sugar Land 5K and Team Hope Walk

The Missouri City Branch Library, located at 1530 Texas Parkway, will have a special program on the past, present and future of space exploration. Don Cooper, a retired NASA physicist, will discuss the history of United States rockets, his role in designing technology that helped make space travel possible and his experiences with Apollo 11 and Apollo 13. Then, Leonard Ferguson of the Fort Bend Astronomy Club will discuss NASA’s New Frontiers program.

Visit www.fortbend.lib.tx.us.

Walk in support of Huntington’s Disease Society of America’s (HDSA) mission to improve the lives of everyone with Huntington’s disease.

Thousands of families, friends, co-workers, neighbors and communities walk together each year to support HDSA’s fight to improve the lives of people affected by HD and their families.

This community walk takes place at Oyster Creek Park, located at 4033 Highway 6 in Sugar Land.

To register, visit www.hdsa.org/teamhope or call 212-242-1968, extension 218.

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EVENTS October 17th, 7 – 11 pm Couture for the Cause: “A White Haute Affair” The 6th Annual Couture for the Cause will be a fun-filled evening that includes a fabulous pool-side fashion show featuring chic fashions presented by models whose lives have been touched by cancer. Show your support by participating in the Champagne and Diamonds raffle for your chance to win a gorgeous piece of diamond jewelry, replenish your wine cellar with wines from the Wine Pull or honor a loved one who has been affected by cancer.

Email valerie.marun@cancer.org or call 713-706-5684.

October 18th, 7:15 am Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Try Andy’s Tri The 23rd annual triathlon will take place at the First Colony Aquatic Center Pool, located at 4350 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land.

The event includes a 300 meter open water swim, a 10 mile bike ride and a three-mile run.

To register, call 281-242-7700 or visit www.slfinishlinesports.com.

October 18th, 2 pm Impossibly Possible The Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra will celebrate the diverse world of musicians with disabilities featuring guest artist Daniel Stover on his specialty one-handed saxophone at the Stafford Center, located at 10505 Cash Road. Call 281-276-9642 or visit www.fbso.org.

SUGAR LAND TOWN SQUARE

October 24th, 4:30 – 7 pm Tricks and Treats in the Park

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Dress up in your Halloween costumes and enjoy an evening of family fun at Buffalo Run Park, located at 1122 Buffalo Run in Missouri City. The event kicks off with a Monster Mile Fun Run, and free t-shirts will be provided for race participants while supplies last. Registration is not required. The race will follow with the Tricks and Treats Trail, which includes hay rides, a petting zoo, games, moonwalks, a pumpkin patch photo station and more! Email kcarter@missouricitytx.gov or call 281-403-8637.

October 24th, 6 – 10 pm Flick-nic on the Lawn

www.sugarlandtownsquare.com Call 281.313.SLTS Country on City Walk: Live Music Friday, October 2nd 7:30 – 9:30 pm

Flying Saucer Beerfeast Saturday, October 3rd 1 – 6 pm

Giving Spirits Concert Series Friday, October 9th 7:30 – 9:30 pm

Movie Under the Moon

Enjoy a family-friendly evening at Fort Bend Community Church, located at 7707 Highway 6 in Missouri City. The movie Big Hero 6 will be shown outdoors, and there will be food available for purchase from popular food trucks, as well as inflatable moonwalks for the kids. Admission is free.

Visit http://english.fbcchome.org or call 281-499-2131.

Saturday, October 10th 6 – 9 pm

Dancing Under the Stars Friday, October 16th 7 – 9 pm

Music in the Plaza Saturday, October 17th 7:30 – 9:30 pm

October 31st, 8 am Fort Bend County Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Music in the Plaza

All funds raised through the 5K walk further the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association. The walk takes place at Constellation Field, located at 1 Stadium Drive in Sugar Land. Call 713-314-1346 or visit http://act.alz.org.

38th Annual Concours D’Elegance Car Show

Friday, October 23rd 7:30 – 9:30 pm

Saturday, October 24th 10 am – 3 pm

The City of Sugar Land’s Halloween Town Sunday, October 25th 4 – 8 pm

Presented By:

Hauntcert – Live Music From the Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECH Water Treatment Specialists

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

magazine • October 2015

Haute Halloween: A Michael Jackson Experience Saturday, October 31st 8 – 9 pm

198 Kempner St. at Imperial Sugar Land

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Friday, October 30th 7:30 – 9:30 pm

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Living the Sweet Life: Halloween Portraits

ver the years, I have been inspired to create different collections. Halloween is, of course, one such time that gives so much opportunity.

I began my Theatrical Spooktacular series a few years back. This has transformed not only my littles into their dream characters, but it has made for some super spectacular art for their homes as well! Here are just a few from my own collection of my daughter, Victoria Ann, and my son, James Edward.

Happy Halloween!

Take Care of You!

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

TAKING A LITTLE TIME IN YOUR DAY MAY ADD YEARS TO YOUR LIFE. SO wE MAKE SchEDULING A MAMMOGRAM EASIER. One in eight women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. And 85 percent of those women have no family history of the disease. At Houston Methodist, we know the numbers may be scary, so we’re here to help you. We offer the latest in breast cancer screening technology and encourage all women to talk with their doctor about scheduling their mammogram.

Scheduling online is easy — go to houstonmethodist.org/online-scheduling or call 281.274.7170.

Houston Methodist Sugar Land now offers 3-D mammography.