Summer 2022 - Fort Bend Focus Magazine - People • Places • Happenings

SUMMER 2022

absolutely!

e c i v r e S f l e S Above

Kid Friendly

Medical FOCUS

Leading Orthopedic Care to

KEEP YOU MOVING Our sports medicine specialists can help keep your body in motion.

8 59

At Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at Sugar Land, we know every movement matters. Our board-certified sports medicine specialists offer:

610

Aliana Sugar Land

8

Sienna

• The latest imaging and technology • Advanced nonsurgical treatments • Minimally invasive procedures • State-of-the-art physical and occupational therapy Whether you’re suffering from simple aches and pains or dealing with a complex injury, we can get you back on your feet — and keep you moving.

Houston Methodist Orthopedic Injury Clinic Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine

19 convenient locations across Greater Houston

Same-day appointments for injuries.

Schedule an appointment: houstonmethodist.org/sportsmed 281.201.0396

{Features} 12 MEDICAL FOCUS Health Care News You Can Use

18 ABSOLUTELY! KID FRIENDLY SUMMER 2022

{COVER STORY}

Everything parents need for both summer fun and back to school.

21 SIMPLE SUMMER DESSERT

Enjoy your summer and the fourth with fresh fruit like strawberries in this easy recipe.

22 HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA

Celebrate July 4th events perfect for friends, family and fun around the Bend.

{Columns} 16 THE DRUNKEN CYCLIST Recalling My Past at Ancient Peaks

24 FORT BEND STRONG Oh, Say Can You See

26 THE SWEET LIFE GARDENER Thyme

29 ON THE PORCH WITH PATTI The Nehls family: Kerri, Parker, Trever, Wyatt and Madison.

8

SERVICE ABOVE SELF TREVER NEHLS

A 33-year veteran of our Armed Forces and a 30-year veteran of Fort Bend County law enforcement, Trever Nehls and his family have called Fort Bend home since 1992. After serving two terms as the elected Fort Bend County Precinct 4 Constable, Trever has entered the private sector leading a Richmond-based biotechnology company, and now, having recognized the desperate need for leadership, he is vying for a new role: Fort Bend County Judge.

2

SUMMER 2022

Summer Breeze

30 AUTO REVIEW

2022 Toyota Tundra

36 LIVING THE SWEET LIFE Time To Be Mine

21

NEWSWORTHY

Texas Master Naturalists Complete Major Project Members of the Coastal Prairie Chapter of the Texas Master Naturalist Program recently completed a project to construct roosting racks for the incredible native birds that live and move through our community. The racks were built on an island in the middle of the Wetland Pond at Seabourne Creek Nature Park in Rosenberg, an ideal place for several species of birds that have chosen the spot as their nesting site.

The crew braved the early summer heat to ferry all the supplies across the pond via canoe. Chapter members Jerry Trenta, Don Parkhouse, Elaine Whitely, Phil Ward, Bob Naeger, Garrett Engelhardt, Sal Cardenas, Kevin Engelhardt, John Cooper and Janis Leavitt all pitched in to make this project happen.

These new roosts are not only a ben-

efit to the egrets, herons, spoonbills and countless other species of birds, they provide wonderful bird-watching and photography opportunities. Come out and visit Seabourne Creek Nature Park and explore the prairie restoration, native gardens, bird watching areas and so much more.

Texas Master Naturalists are a corps of volunteers dedicated to the beneficial management of natural resources and areas in texas. The program is sponsored by Texas Parks and Wildlife and Texas A&M Agrilife Extension. For more information about the Coastal Prairie Chapter, visit www.coastalprairie.org.

Sal Cardenas and Bob Naeger bring lumber to build the roosting racks.

Photo by Kevin Engelhardt.

Submit newsworthy items to Patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com SUMMER 2022 l

3

CONTRIBUTORS

Jeffrey M. Kralik, Ph.D. thedrunkencyclist.com Page 16

16

SUMMER 2022 VOLUME 18 | NUMBER 7

24

30

The Honorable Pete Olson Contributor Page 24 Alisa Murray www.AlisaMurray.com Page 26 & 36

26 Patti Parish-Kaminski Publisher Page 29

29 Steve Kursar Auto Enthusiast Page 30

30

absolutely! {Auto Review}

{In Every Issue}

2022 TOYOTA TUNDRA

6 EXCLAMATION POINTS!

{Newsworthy} 3 TEXAS MASTER NATURALISTS Complete Major Project

7 DULLES HIGH SCHOOL Student Chosen as State Student Hero Award Recipient

15 HOUSTON METHODIST SUGAR LAND HOSPITAL New and Expectant Moms are Invited to the Community Baby Shower

27 FORT BEND JUNIOR SERVICE LEAGUE AND MEMORIAL HERMANN SUGAR LAND Announce Partnership for 2022 Sugar Plum Market

4

28 AMATEUR PHOTO CONTEST 31 47TH ANNUAL VINTAGE GLASS AND ANTIQUE SHOW

32 OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART OF THE BEND

August 20th and 21st at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds

35 FORT BEND FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS Award Scholarships to Graduating High School Seniors

STAFFORD MSD

Names 2021-22 District Teacher and Rookie Teacher of the Year

{Business Briefs} 17 OAKBEND MEDICAL CENTER CEO Joe Freudenberger Celebrates 15 Years of Service

SUMMER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

ON THE COVER: The Nehls family: Wyatt, Kerri, Trever, Madison and Parker.

EXCLAMATION POINTS! Publisher, PATTI PARISH-KAMINSKI

Happy 246th Birthday America!

July 4th is the Super Bowl of summer holidays, and I for one am ready! Fort Bend has a plethora of fun, family-friendly opportunities to celebrate America’s birthday, and we are bringing them all to you on page 22. With the long holiday weekend, I hope you and your family can enjoy a couple of these firecracker events!

I’ve always loved the 4th of July, but after meeting and spending time with Colonel Trever Nehls learning about his 30 plus years of military service to our great country, I must confess I love this holiday just a little bit more. In my opinion, there’s no amount of “thank you’s” Ready to celebrate the fourth – and yes, that’s an original Charles Weiss painting that will ever be sufficient to express our of Old Glory on the wall – best artist gratitude to the men and women who ever! selflessly defend our great nation. They are all heroes in my book. Meet Colonel Nehls and read about what’s next in his long line of service in our cover story. And thank you to him and all of our service men and women on our nation’s birthday that we are free to celebrate because of them.

As we celebrate our nation’s birthday, it’s also a great time to remember our hard-fought freedom and the genesis of our national anthem. Pete Olson shares Francis Scott Key’s journey in writing The Star-Spangled Banner in his column on page 24. In sharing Key’s story, Pete says, “America would win the War of 1812, and we would forever have the most beautiful, inspiring and glorious national anthem the world has ever known!” I couldn’t agree more.

Happy Birthday America!

Patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

READER FEEDBACK

absolutely! focus media P. O. Box 1253 Richmond, Texas 77406

PUBLISHER Patti Parish-Kaminski AC C OUNT EXECUTIVES Kay Garrett Gena Horak A RT D I R E C T O R Grace Belleza WEB DESIGNER JOBpage Graphics S O C IA L M E D IA M A NA G E R Natalee Moore

A D V E RT I S I N G I N Q U I R I E S / E D I T O R IA L S U B M I S S I O N S Patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Dear Patti, Thank you so much for being a judge for our Ladies’ Hat Contest at this year’s Derby Party!

We knew it was going to be a tough job and that you would rise to the occasion beautifully!

Published by

Thanks again!

6

281.728.1204 WWW.FORTBENDFOCUS.COM

CONTRIBUTORS Jeffrey M. Kralik, Ph.D. Steve Kursar Alisa Murray The Honorable Pete Olson

Stay focused,

Andi Wallis Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship

Vol. 18 No. 7 Summer 2022

Heather Hernandez Sedillo and Alicen Swift preparing for the 2022 Derby Party.

SUMMER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Free Subscription.

Sign up at www.FortBendFocus.com.

Fort Bend FocusTM eZine is published by absolutely! focus media, P. O. Box 1253, Richmond, Texas 77406. Copyright© 2022 by absolutely! focus media. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Fort Bend FocusTM eZine 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 eZine welcomes editorial submissions from its readers.

NEWSWORTHY

Mayor Joe Zimmerman, Mayor of Sugar Land; Lisa Poynor, CEO of Fort Bend Regional Council; Anvi Garyali, Dulles High School student; Lawrence Allen Jr., Member of State Board of Education – District 4; and Dr. Christie Whitbeck, FBISD Superintendent

Dulles High School Student Chosen as State Student Hero Award Recipient Anvi Garyali, an incoming senior at Dulles High School, has been named a recipient of the 2022 Student Hero Award for State Board of Education (SBOE) District 4. She is among only 15 students selected from across the state for this prestigious honor.

Garyali served as a member of the Fort Bend Community Prevention Coalition and was nominated by Payal Patani, a staff member with the Fort Bend Regional Council, for her selfless service to the community. During the pandemic, Garyali founded a non-profit, Rhythm of Life, to teach seniors and teens mindfulness and health coping strategies for dealing with stress and other mental health problems.

“We are so very proud of Anvi,” FBISD Superintendent of Schools Dr. Christie Whitbeck said. “She shows what I believe to be true - to whom much is given, much is expected.”

“Not a day goes by where I don’t think about how grateful and lucky I am to do the work that I do for the people around me,” Garyali said. “Doing this is a passion of mine and I am so incredibly honored and lucky to do what I do.”

The SBOE Student Hero Award is given to students in public school who demonstrate exemplary volunteer service that benefits their fellow students, school or wider community.

Visit the Student Heroes Award webpage at https://tea.texas.gov/about-tea/ news-and-multimedia/awards/studentheroes-award for more information.

Submit newsworthy items to Patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

The Ultimate Japanese Restaurant Experience

18921 University Blvd, #900 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.903.7067

Mention Fort Bend Focus to your server when ordering and receive 15% off your entire bill!

Expires August 31, 2022; Dine in only.

SUMMER 2022 l

7

COVER STORY The Nehls family: Parker, Madison, Kerri, Trever and Wyatt.

Service Above Self T

rever Nehls is a 33-year veteran of not only our Armed Forces, but also a 30-year veteran of Fort Bend County law enforcement. He has called Fort Bend County home since 1992 where he and his wife, Kerri, have lived and raised their three children. After two terms as the elected Fort Bend County Precinct 4 Constable, Trever entered the private sector where he serves as the President of a Richmond-based biotechnology company. And now, having recognized the desperate need for leadership, Trever is vying for a new role: Fort Bend County Judge.

twin brother, then Sheriff Troy Nehls, served on the front lines during Hurricane Harvey rescuing dozens of people and pets during the flood.

Serving the Fort Bend Community Trever began his Texas law enforcement career in 1993 with the Sugar Land Police Department (SLPD). During his time with Sugar Land Police Department, he met his wife Kerri on a blind date arranged by his sister Tammy. “I vividly recall our first date,” said Trever. “I drove to her apartment in Houston, she opened the door, and I had to look up at her. The rest is history or rather the beginning – of the story. We’ve been married 22 years.”

Trever and Kerri were married in 2000 while Trever was still serving with Sugar Land Police Department. He continued with SLPD in various roles until he was elected as Fort Bend County Precinct 4 Constable in 2012. After four successful years in his first term, Trever was re-elected in 2016 where he served for an additional four years. During his tenure as a two-term elected official, Constable Nehls cut unnecessary waste in his precinct, instituted body cameras for his deputies, and kept our communities safe. He and his deputies, along with his identical

Constable Trever Nehls worked tirelessly rescuing people and pets during Hurricane Harvey.

A Family Legacy of Service Service is a way of life for the Nehls’ family as Trever comes from a long and distinguished line of military and law enforcement family professionals. At the age of 20, Trever followed in the legacy of his father’s service and enlisted in the Wisconsin Army National Guard. He, along with brothers Todd and Troy, have dedicated their lives to selflessly serving our country. His father, Edwin Nehls, served with the U.S. Army in Korea and was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, our nation’s second highest medal for heroic actions, for his

For more information about Trever Nehls, visit www.TreverNehls.com.

bravery in hand-to-hand and small arms combat exchanges in Pau-gol Korea.

Following military service, Edwin joined the Dodge County, Wisconsin Sheriff’s Office, where he became the elected Sheriff.

Always active in the community, then Fort Bend County Sheriff Troy Nehls and Fort Bend County Precinct 4 Constable Trever Nehls pinning Honorary Deputy Badges on youngsters during a community engagement event.

Trever’s older brother, Todd, also served in the U.S. Army for over 36 years retiring with the rank of Colonel. Additionally, Todd served with the Dodge County, Wisconsin Sheriff’s Office as the elected Sheriff. Trever’s identical twin brother, Troy Nehls, served in the U.S. Army for 21 years, retiring as a Major. Troy later joined the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office where he was later elected to serve as the Sheriff. After two terms as a highly successful Sheriff, Troy was elected as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressional District 22. Combined, the Nehls’ family has over 100 years of law enforcement service and over 90 years of military service. Few families can claim close to 100 years of public service, whether military or law enforcement service.

Serving our Nation A decorated combat veteran and recipient of three Bronze Star Medals, Colonel Nehls has numerous overseas deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan and the Arabian Peninsula. Throughout extended absences away from family during combat tours, Trever describes his experiences as “challenging and trying.”

When asked, how did you and Kerri get through the numerous mobilizations and stresses as a result of being away from loved ones for 9 to 12 months?

“Extended time away from family in a combat zone can be trying, especially with small children,” Trever recalled. “My first tour in 2004, Madison was three months old, and I knew that she wouldn’t remember much. I was in Iraq for 12 months, and she was walking when I returned. Missing moments like her first steps were never easy, but I knew that service to our country in its time of need is necessary.” Kerri and their firstborn drove to Fort Bragg to pick up dad, and he vividly recalls his daughter Madison not truly recognizing her father. “It took a few weeks for Madison and I to get reacquainted with one another again,” Trever said.

For Trever, it did not get any easier.

“In 2008, I deployed to Afghanistan and Kerri and I were now parents to three young children. Madison was five years old, Wyatt was three years old, and Parker was one.” At this age, Trever’s children weren’t old enough to fully grasp what was taking place – that dad was going into a dangerous combat zone. “Personally, I never put too much thought into not returning home. I was always at peace knowing God was and is in control, and I was proud to serve our great country.”

Colonel Trever Nehls with daughter Madison at a replica Vietnam Memorial Wall in Sugar Land, Texas.

As the three Nehls’ children grew older, Dad’s deployments became more challenging as they better understood the gravity of his service. “Kuwait in 2019 was probably the most difficult of the overseas tours, as I was gone nine months,” shared Colonel Nehls. “That

was during the adolescent years, and as any parent knows, that’s when they really need you.”

Rising to the Challenge The gravity, complexity and dedication of serving three combat tours in Iraq, Afghanistan and Kuwait defending our freedom as a soldier is an immense honor and responsibility. But over the course of his extensive 33-year military career, Colonel Nehls has gone above and beyond by rising among the ranks honing his leadership skills and commanding troops at the company, battalion and brigade level. Additionally, he graduated from the U.S. Army War College, the Joint Forces Staff College and the Command General Staff College in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. His extensive military experience, leadership training and abilities under the most extreme, hostile conditions earned him high praise amongst his leaders and peers, ultimately retiring with the rank of Colonel.

While Colonel Nehls describes his Iraq tour as “eye-opening for him,” due to the extremely challenging environment, he says it wasn’t nearly as complicated as Afghanistan. “Afghanistan is a country that is several decades behind Iraq.

While deployed to Afghanistan in 2008, I witnessed systemic corruption, a lack of education, a lack of governance, little to no rule of law and non-existent infrastructure. I was the senior U.S. Army officer in charge of a remote compound consisting of U.S. military personnel and civilians from the Department of State, United States Agency for International Development and the Army Corp of Engineers. I served as the liaison between the provincial governor and military forces. We experienced improvised explosive devices; it was a very dangerous time.” Colonel Nehls continued to stress the lessons learned about enemy capabilities and their ability to adapt. “The Taliban continually used primitive and brutal tactics to instill fear amongst the local population. A small amount of liquid explosive, a battery, wire and other easily accessible home goods were used as improvised explosives and placed us on a heightened state of alert wherever we traveled.”

For more information about Trever Nehls, visit www.TreverNehls.com.

after nine months in Kuwait, Colonel Nehls returned stateside, and in 2021 he retired from the U.S. Army Reserve, concluding 33 years of dedicated service to our country. And now, Colonel Nehls wants to put his extensive leadership experience to work for Fort Bend County as County Judge.

The Future of Fort Bend

In 2010, Major Nehls addressed the Zabul Provincial leaders and elders about the importance of unity and working towards a functional government.

After his return from Afghanistan in 2008, Colonel Nehls received a very important phone call: he was among a handful of Reserve officers who had been selected to attend the Command and General Staff College in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. “It was a true honor for me to be selected to attend such a prestigious college,” shared Colonel Nehls. “The tough part was I had to break the news to my wife and children I was leaving again.”

The Nehls family decided to move together to Fort Leavenworth while Trever pursued completing the Command and General Staff College and also earning a Masters Degree from Central Michigan University in Public Administration. “The time in Kansas was highly rewarding for me and my family,” recalled Colonel Nehls. “They experienced the rigors of military life. My daughter Madison remembers this time very clearly.”

Following his graduation from the Command and General Staff College in 2010, Trever was informed he would again be deploying to Afghanistan. “The situation in Afghanistan was deteriorating, especially in the Southern and Eastern regions of Afghanistan, so I was redeployed because of my extensive and valuable experience in the Zabul Province.” Colonel Nehls worked closely with his unit commander coordinating operations in remote areas and served as the liaison for his unit and an Afghan Army Commander.

While deployed Colonel Nehls recalls utilizing an interpreter equipped with a communication device, which monitored Taliban chatter, to pass a message to the Taliban telling them to stop hiding like cowards. “The Taliban were tracking my movements and knew exactly where I went. When I visited villages, the Taliban would monitor all my movements and enter the village in the dark of night posting ‘night letters’ on doors, which threatened the lives of anyone who worked with coalition forces.” Towards the end of his deployment in 2011, Trever was promoted to Lt. Colonel. “It was a distinct honor for me to be promoted in a combat zone.”

After returning from Afghanistan in 2011, Trever continued his military service stateside with two battalion commands in 2012 and 2015, and graduated from the U.S. Army War College in 2015 and the Joint Forces Staff College in 2017. In 2017, Nehls was also promoted to the rank of Colonel and board selected for Brigade command, Trever’s greatest military achievement and something he set as a goal 15 years earlier as a young Captain. In 2019, while finishing out his Brigade command, Colonel Nehls was informed he would deploy to Kuwait. In 2020

“My goal is to unite Fort Bend residents and officials with an aim to work towards a Fort Bend future,” said Nehls. “It’s my extensive leadership experience that will bring that goal to fruition. We must work together in the best interest of Fort Bend County.”

Unity toward a common goal is a recurring theme in Trever’s career. It’s the only way a mission is successfully accomplished, and he feels strongly a sense of community working together with open mindedness is essential for success. “Particularly since COVID, we have faced many challenges. Families have been torn apart as a result of information and disinformation – vaccination or no vaccination, mask or no mask, shut down your business or don’t shut down. There’s been a polarization of people based on political affiliation and very little gets accomplished in that environment. We don’t have to agree on a party’ but we need to learn to work together again.”

Trever noted the county judge has two primary responsibilities. First, as the presiding officer of Commissioner’s Court, and second, as the executive head of the Office of Emergency Management during times of disaster. “My training in law enforcement and three decades of military experience qualifies me to lead in both these areas. I witnessed the devastation of Harvey and was waist deep in water conducting evacuation operations. I’ve also worked with the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers during disasters and on military missions.”

Currently, Trever is the President of a Fort Bend-based biotechnology company where he oversees the business’s numerous employees, budget, international and domestic sales, research and development. He is a small business advocate supporting public private sector partnerships.

And now, he is ready to continue his legacy of successful service as the next Fort Bend County Judge. “The military produces some of the best leaders in the world. I want to utilize my unique combination of private and public sector leadership experience to make Fort Bend County the very best community to raise a family, start or run a business or retire.”

Major Nehls and his team providing school supplies to a girls school in hopes that a quality education would be available to both boys and girls in the Zabul Province in 2010.

For more information about Trever Nehls, visit www.TreverNehls.com.

Pol. Ad. Pd. For by Supporters of Trever Nehls.

Advertorial

Medical Focus Health Ca r e N e w s Yo u C a n U s e

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Receives - Get With The Guidelines Target: Stroke Gold Plus Achievement Award

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital

H

ouston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital has received the American Heart Association/ American Stroke Association’s Get With The Guidelines® Stroke Gold Plus, Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll awards.

These awards recognize the hospital’s commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines based on the latest scientific evidence.

Houston Methodist Sugar Land earned the Association’s Gold Plus award by meeting quality achievement measures for the diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients over the course of the past year. These measures include proper use of medications and stroke treatments aligned with the most up-to-date, evidence-based guidelines with the goal of speeding recovery and

12

reducing death and disability for stroke patients. Another measure includes patients receiving education on their health and scheduling a follow-up visit.

Houston Methodist Sugar Land additionally received the association’s Target: StrokeSM Honor Roll Elite Plus award. This award recognizes hospitals that meet quality measures developed to reduce the time between the patient’s arrival at the hospital and treatment with the lifesaving medication alteplase.

Houston Methodist Sugar Land was also awarded the Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll award. This award aims to ensure patients with Type 2 diabetes, who might be at higher risk for complications, receive the most up-to-date, evidence-based care when hospitalized due to stroke.

“We’re dedicated to improving the quality of care for our stroke patients by implementing the American Heart Asso-

SUMMER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

ciation’s Get With The Guidelines-Stroke initiative,” said Chris Siebenaler, Regional Senior Vice President and CEO. “We measure our success in meeting guidelines developed to improve our patients’ outcomes.”

“We are pleased to recognize Houston Methodist Sugar Land for its commitment to caring for those in their community who need cardiovascular care,” said John Warner, M.D., FAHA, past president of the American Heart Association and executive vice president for health system affairs at UT Southwestern Medical Center, in Dallas. “Hospitals that follow the American Heart Association’s quality improvement protocols often see improved patient outcomes, fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates – a win for health care systems, families and communities.”

According to the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association, stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of adult disability in the United States. On average, someone in the U.S. suffers a stroke every 40 seconds and nearly 795,000 people suffer a new or recurrent stroke each year.

Visit houstonmethodist.org/sugarland to learn more about the services offered at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

Medical Focus

Advertorial

Fun in the Sun Now Could Mean Problems Later

S

ummer is upon us and many of us are looking forward to enjoying some “fun in the sun.” Spending time outside is a great way to be physically active, reduce stress and spend time with loved ones. Without properly protecting your skin from the sun, you are inadvertently increasing your risk of skin cancer. Let’s not forget about other undesirable physical signs of sun damage: wrinkles, discoloration and leathery appearing skin. Your skin is your largest organ. Show it some love!

Staying out of the sun completely is the best way to avoid sun damage; however, for most of us, this is not practical. So, if you plan on going outside, use precautions: • Always wear a minimum SPF 30 sunscreen. Apply it every day. Make it a habit just as you do with brushing your teeth. Be sure to cover all exposed areas. Don’t forget your ears, eyelids, lips and back of hands. Apply every two hours while outdoors.

Apply more frequently if you perspire or get wet.

• Avoid sun in the middle of the day from 10 am to 4 pm when the ultraviolet rays which cause skin damage are strongest.

• Wear protective clothing when outdoors for long periods.

A long-sleeved shirt, pants and a wide-brimmed hat will protect your body against the sun’s harmful effects.

Genna Lubrano, MD is with the OakBend Medical Group. To request an appointment, call 281-497-0296.

SUMMER 2022 l

13

Build 25% more Muscle and Reduce 30% Fat with 4 Sessions (Average)

Medical Focus Medical Gym: Build Your Core and Floor

W

Buy 4 Sessions Emsella Package

ALL Aesthetic, Wellness & Weight Loss Packages

Schedule your complimentary consultation and receive a complimentary demo.

281.313.7435 or www.DrShel.com Contact

14

SUMMER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

hen life gets in the way, it becomes harder and harder to keep up with an exercise routine. After the age of 30, we lose about three to five percent of our muscle mass per decade. Only 55% of adults engage in enough physical activity to achieve optimal health benefits. Core to floor therapy makes it possible for those who lead busy lives to easily keep up their core and pelvic floor strengthening.

Dr. Shelena Lalji (Dr. Shel) is nationally known for bringing cutting edge treatments. “As a woman and physician, I have witnessed how this technology has improved the quality of my patients’ lives from Core to Floor.”

Core to Floor therapy utilizes two noninvasive devices that help to strengthen, firm and tone the abdomen and pelvic floor muscles. The first device is Emsculpt Neo. The Emsculpt Neo increases muscle mass by 25% and reduces fat by 30% on average. Not only does Emsculpt Neo combination therapy work on the pelvic floor muscles, but it also works to strengthen and tone the abdomen, buttocks, thighs, calf and arms. The end result is more fat reduction and enhanced muscle mass. According to Dr. Shel, “This groundbreaking device is better than anything I’ve seen in 20 plus years.

I’m so excited to give my patients what they truly deserve: strength, balance, nonsurgical treatment for mild to moderate urinary incontinence and enhanced sexual wellness.”

The second device used for Floor to Core is the Emsella Chair, which utilizes high intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) technology to stimulate deep

Advertorial

NEWSWORTHY

New and Expectant Moms are Invited to the Community Baby Shower at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital

pelvic floor muscles and restore neuromuscular control. Each Emsella session brings thousands of supramaximal pelvic floor muscle contractions, which are extremely important in re-education of your muscles. “Emsella chair is beneficial to patients because strong pelvic muscles help improve sexual satisfaction, urinary issues and erectile dysfunction for men.”

The Core to Floor therapy is ideal for women who have a common condition of abdominal separation that can happen after childbirth, leading to lower back pain and urinary incontinence. This therapy can help to strengthen and tone the abdominal and pelvic floor muscles for both men and women, and most patients need a series of four treatments.

Visit www.DrShel.com or call 281313-7435 or to schedule your complimentary consultation and receive a complimentary demo.

https://www.drshel.com/floor-to-core/

The Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Community Baby Shower Committee.

Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Sugar Land invites new and expectant moms – along with their partners and babies – to the annual Community Baby Shower from 10 am to 2 pm on Thursday, August 4th. This event is held in recognition of World Breastfeeding Week and will take place in the Brazos Pavilion Conference Center on the Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital campus.

The event will feature demonstrations on how to safely use baby carriers, presentations on the importance of safe sleeping practices, water safety, post-partum recovery and a Sugar Land police officer will speak about car seat safety. In addition, lactation support from the Childbirth Center and community partners will be available to talk one-on-one with moms and provide guidance as needed.

“This is a great opportunity for new moms to speak directly with someone who understands their concerns,” said Donna Timmer, MSN, RN, IBCLC, lactation consultant. “Our goal is to celebrate new and expectant moms, as well as help them learn techniques to provide the best care for their newborns.”

Timmer says attendees are welcome to stop by any time during the shower.

Demonstrations will be provided throughout the event and light refreshments will be offered. Attendees can also participate in numerous raffles and door prize drawings. In addition, all new and expectant mothers will receive a handmade burp cloth and nursing pads made by our community and staff.

“This is a fun event, but it’s also a great outreach program,” Timmer said.

“Sometimes a mom gets home from the hospital and realizes that she needs additional support or information, and we’re here to help.”

Visit join.houstonmethodist.org/babyshower-sl for more information about the Community Baby Shower.

For more information about Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Sugar Land, visit houstonmethodist.org/childbirth-sl or call 281.274.7080.

SUMMER 2022 l

15

the drunken cyclist

By Jeffrey M. Kralik, Ph.D.

Recalling My Past at Ancient Peaks W

hile I grew up in the heart of suburbia, my mom came from a long line of farmers, and we would spend most of our vacations on one of the farms helping to feed, milk or herd the livestock. Sure, my siblings and I all professed to hate it, seeing it as a fate worse than death.

At some point in my childhood, we stopped making those long drives out to “the country,” and I eventually came to the realization that I missed that time spent with my grandfather riding along in his tractor, bailing hay, even the smell of manure.

A couple of weeks ago on a trip to Paso Robles, part of the Central Coast wine region in California, it all came rushing back to me. Sure, I visited some of the familiar spots with their elaborate tasting rooms and refined “tasting experiences.” But it was my trip to Ancient Peaks that caused me to recall all of those summers as a youth down on the farm.

I met up with founding winemaker Mike Sinor and one of the co-owners of Ancient Peaks, Karl Wittstrom. It was the latter that evoked all of those memories within me. With his deep baritone voice and weathered hands populated with sausage-like fingers, Karl was captivating with a few stories (which no doubt are a part of a lengthy anthology) of his upbringing in the Paso Robles area.

16

The story flowed from the beginnings of the Santa Margarita Ranch (it was founded before the American Revolution and is one of the oldest continually operated cattle ranches in the country) to how the Robert Mondavi himself was the first to recognize the potential of the site to grow high quality wine grapes.

It was the Mondavi family, in fact, who eventually convinced the then owners of Santa Margarita Ranch to lease the family several hundred acres to establish the Margarita vineyard. A few years later, Karl and a couple of partners purchased the Ranch, and a couple of years after that, they bought out the original lease and quickly founded Ancient Peaks Winery, with the name honoring the Santa Lucia Mountains that tower over

Ancient Peaks Chardonnay.

Karl Wittstrom, owner.

the vineyard.

While Karl and the story of Ancient Peaks had me fondly remembering my youth, it was the quality and affordability of the wines that quickly brought me back to the present. We tried the wines over a delicious lunch in the Ancient Peaks Café (a must stop on any visit to Paso) and I have to say that I was impressed with the entire range from entry-level to wine club exclusives.

SUMMER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Here are a few of the wines that are widely available in Texas at many H-E-B, Kroger, and Whole Foods locations:

BUSINESS BRIEFS

2021 One Stone Rosé of Pinot Noir Retail $20. On the dark side for rosé, with darker red fruit (cranberry) and a violet component. Big fruit, nice acidity, good balance. Outstanding. 93 Points.

2021 Ancient Peaks Sauvignon Blanc Retail $18. Tart, fruity, tart, mineral, tart, salinity – did I mention tart? Mouth-watering and great on its own, but this even better with food.

Excellent. 91 Points.

2020 Ancient Peaks Rosé Pale salmon color with a fruity, yet also meaty nose with dark cherry predominate. Fruity, fun, with some depth and body. Excellent. 90 Points.

2021 Ancient Peaks Chardonnay Retail $18. Chardonnay with a splash of Viognier (4%).

Under screwcap. Plenty of fruit, brilliant acidity and verve, this wine punches well above its weight. While this wine did some see some oak, it is clearly in the background as the fruit is clearly the focus. Excellent. 90 Points.

2020 Ancient Peaks Cabernet Sauvignon Retail $25. Quite fruity with oodles of blackberry, plum, black raspberry and even cassis. Throw in some violet, hints of tobacco, a lovely tartness, plenty of depth and a lengthy finish. $25? It’s a steal. 91 Points.

2018 Ancient Peaks Petit Verdot Retail $50. Dark berry fruit, mocha, cigar smoke, violet and eucalyptus. Yes, it is big, brooding, even bodacious, but there is an acidity that holds it all together.

Outstanding. 93 Points.

2018 Ancient Peaks Oyster Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon Retail $60. Rich and brooding, laden with dark fruit (cassis, plum, blackberry), mocha and earth.

This wine is particularly compelling. 94 Points.

Ancient Peaks Oyster Ridge Red Blend.

OakBend Medical Center CEO Joe Freudenberger Celebrates 15 Years of Service Joe Freudenberger, OakBend Medical Center’s CEO, is excited to celebrate 15 years of loyal service. After completing his finance M.B.A. from Tulane University, Freudenberger began his career in healthcare, spending 10 years with Deloitte Consulting, working with major healthcare clients, 11 years as CFO for Joe Freudenberger two different hospitals, and the last 15 years as CEO of Fort Bend County’s independent, non-profit OakBend Medical Center.

Over the past 15 years, Joe Freudenberger has been intricately involved with the restructuring of almost every department. By shifting OakBend’s strategy to focus on excellent patient care, experienced and professional staff, state-of-theart healthcare areas, continued community involvement and support, intense marketing and public relations, diversified partner models, and financial prudence, Freudenberger and his team have made OakBend Medical Center an important healthcare beacon in Fort Bend County.

“Joe Freudenberger has been an amazing leader at OakBend,” said Dr. May Tape, Board of Directors President.

“Rarely does one get to work with someone so committed to not only the well-being of the entire OakBend system but also to our community. He attends most Fort Bend events and is always a financial supporter. He truly believes in the success of Fort Bend County and its residents.”

Some of the improvements that have been made at OakBend Medical Center over the past 15 years include: • Entire upgrading of the Jackson Street Campus • Remodeling of all patient rooms • Improving all waiting areas on the floors to family-friendly areas • Opening of the Williams Way Campus • Conversion of Wharton to OakBend • Opened 5 Ambulatory Surgery Centers • Opened 22 Physical Therapy Facilities • Opened 4 Imaging Facilities • Opened 4 OakBend Medical Group locations Freudenberger’s proudest achievements are that OakBend has been able to maintain an independent hospital and that during his time as CEO, OakBend has provided over 350 million dollars in uncompensated care to those in need in Fort Bend County.

OakBend Medical Center is very lucky to have a caring and compassionate leader like Joe Freudenberger. His door is always open, and his ears are always available for comments.

Thanks, Joe, for an amazing and progressive past 15 years.

SUMMER 2022 l

17

absolutely! Kid Friendly Tax-Free Weekend August 5th to 7th

Save the Date

T

he Comptroller encourages all taxpayers to support Texas businesses while saving money on tax-free purchases of most clothing, footwear, school supplies and backpacks (sold for less than $100) during the annual Tax-Free

weekend. Qualifying items can be purchased tax free from a Texas store or from an online or catalog seller doing business in Texas. In most cases, you do not need to give the seller an exemption certificate to buy qualifying items tax free.

This year’s sales tax holiday begins Friday, August 5th, and goes through midnight Sunday, August 7th.

The sales tax exemption applies only to qualifying items you buy during the sales tax holiday. Items you buy before or after the sales tax holiday do not qualify for exemption, and there is no tax refund available.

Qualifying Items • Clothing and Footwear • Face Masks • Backpacks • School Supplies For important information, visit https://comptroller.texas. gov/taxes/publications/98-490/.

Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Hosts Annual Student Physicals

H

ouston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at Sugar Land is offering annual student physicals from 9 am to noon on Saturday, July 30th for Fort Bend ISD, and students from surrouning school districts needing physicals.

The University Interscholastic League (UIL) requires all high school athletes to undergo and pass a physical examination prior to participating in sports. Physical evaluations include examining height, weight, vision, blood pressure, pulse, ears, nose, throat, heart, lungs, abdomen, spine and all joints in the upper and lower body. Physicians discuss the athletes’ medical history and consult with them and their parents if further evaluation is necessary prior to releasing them to participate in sports.

“I grew up in the area and attended Clements High School, so it is an honor to come back and support the players. We look forward to continuing to support these school districts,” said Kyle A. Borque, M.D., orthopedic surgeon. “We truly enjoy working with the schools in these districts.”

Houston Methodist physicians have been associated with local Kyle A. Borque, MD school districts for more than 20 years and have donated all the proceeds from the student physical events back to the athletic training programs of Fort Bend ISD schools.

“Performing physical examinations is just part of being a team physician. Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine physicians support coaches, athletic trainers and

18

players throughout the school year,” said Nish L. Shah, M.D., primary care sports medicine.

“Partnering with Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine provides a convenient, inexpensive opportunity for our athletes to complete their physical exam”, said Aimee Marotta, head district athletic trainer for Fort Bend ISD. Nish L. Shah, MD “This partnership continues to provide access to some of the finest doctors in our community and a safer environment for our amazing students as they participate in our athletic programs,” Marotta said.

The student physicals will be hosted at Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at Sugar Land, located at 16811 Southwest Fwy., Sugar Land, TX 77479. Orthopedic, sports medicine physicians will be on-site to provide additional clearance as needed.

The cost is $20 (cash only) for ages 12 through 18. Students should bring a completed medical history UIL Physical Evaluation form, which can be printed from join.houstonmethodist. org/physicals-sl along with the Houston Methodist release form. Proceeds generated from the physicals are donated back to the athletic training programs of Fort Bend ISD schools. For more information, email cmshaddock@houstonmethodist.org or call 281.275.0447. Please note that email is not a secure means to communicate confidential or health-related information, including Social Security number, date of birth, financial information, etc.

SUMMER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

absolutely! Kid Friendly Action-Packed Summer Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center Crushes Summer with Immersive Experiences For Families Ready To Vacay!

Now To August 6th

F

ort Bend Children’s Discovery Center (FBCDC) – A Very Special Project of Children’s Museum Houston – invites you to be the action hero of your very own blockbuster. Be in on the action during “Action Packed Summer,” happening now to August 6th. The Discovery Center has been transformed into the “FBCDC Studios” to encourage you to live a great story with a dash of movie magic. Choose your destiny . . . you’re the star!

Cocomelon Friday, August 5th • JJ and Melon Meet-and-Greet from 10 am to 5 pm.

Activities, events and times subject to change. For more information, visit www.childrensdiscoveryfb.org or call 832-742-2800.

Action-Packed Summer Programming Don’t miss special events exploring different movie genres. These will include interactives, demonstrations, meet-and-greets, spotlight performances and more!

Captain America and Kidpendence Day Saturday, July 2nd Sponsored by Caldwell & Steinbring Dentistry for Children • Captain America Meet-and-Greet from 11 am to 3 pm.

Who Let the Dogs Out? Dog Days of Summer Friday, July 15th • Texas Six Steppers Dancing Dogs at 11 am and 1 pm.

• Faithful Paws Therapy Dogs at 11:30 am and 1:30 pm.

Be Our Guest Friday, July 22nd • Princess Party with Ariel, Cinderella and Tiana from 11 am to 3 pm.

Jurassic Extreme Friday, July 29th • Follow the Footsteps of Walking Dinosaurs in a Day of Gargantuan Proportions at 11 and 11:30 am.

Be the hero of your very own blockbuster!

Now through August 6th

$30 OFF

Memberships with Summer Sale code: SIZZLE30WB

CHECK OUT! childrensdiscoveryfb.org/action-packed-summer-2022

832.742.2800 • 198 Kempner St., Sugar Land, TX 77498 SUMMER 2022 l

19

absolutely! Kid Friendly

Where Children Learn and Grow

Summer Fuat n

Camp

GKA Gingerbread Kids’ Academy

All-Day Summer Camp May 30th – August 19th Monday – Friday • 6:30 am – 6:00 pm Ages 6 – 10

• Supe

r Sports

acky Science •W Adventures s t f a

• Arts & Cr ment Groovy Games • Junio e v r Achie • omputers & Movie s • Video Games, C usic Madness y • Read r M a r • ing Lib ater Days W • Splis h h Splas ore!

M h • Field Trips • Muc 814 FM 2977 281-239-2110 Richmond www.gbkidsacademy.com 77469 twkaminski@sbcglobal.net 20

Gingerbread: Quality Early Education in Fort Bend County

W

ith summer in full swing, it is not too early to turn our attention to a new school year. This year, the Gingerbread Family of Learning Centers celebrated their eight year anniversary of the Gingerbread Kids’ Academy in Richmond and the 40th anniversary of The Gingerbread House Learning Center in Rosenberg.

The Gingerbread Kids’ Academy and Gingerbread House Learning Center have developed an environment where children can learn and grow. The programs are designed for children ages eight weeks to 12 years and offer a variety of activities throughout the year. In addition to their exceptional education programs, the Gingerbread Centers have implemented enhanced safety and health protocols that include daily temperature checks of students who enter the building and hourly cleaning schedules for high touch areas in the centers. During the pandemic, both locations stayed open to care for the children of essential workers in our community.

Research has shown that in order for a child to be successful in school and life, they must begin with a strong foundation in learning. Gingerbread has designed a curriculum that includes an emphasis on reading, writing, science, math, discovery and exploration, as well as social skills development. The infant and toddler programs focus on the development of both gross and fine motor skills along with basic language development. The three to five-year-old Pre-School and Pre-K programs focus on academics, peer relationships and preparation for entry into Kindergarten and elementary school. The Gingerbread afterschool programs, located onsite at Bentley, Frost, Hutchison, Hubenak and Arredondo Elementary, as well as onsite at the Gingerbread Kids’ Academy and Gingerbread House, offer homework assistance, arts, crafts, games and sports.

A new school year means new beginnings. The Gingerbread Family invites you to come by for a visit. Both locations are now accepting enrollments for the 2022-2023 school year.

Contact Tim Kaminski at twkaminski@sbcglobal.net or 281239-2110 for more information.

SUMMER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Simple Summer Dessert

E

njoy your summer and the fourth with fresh fruit like strawberries in this Easy Strawberry Shortcake recipe.

Find more recipes at www.Culinary.net.

Easy Strawberry Shortcake Recipe courtesy of Pillsbury 1 2 1/4

Can (5-8) Pillsbury Flaky Buttermilk Biscuits Tablespoons Butter, Melted Cup Sugar

Strawberry Mixture: 3 Cups Fresh Strawberries, Sliced 1/3 Cup Sugar Whipped Cream: 1/2 Cup Whipping Cream 2 Tablespoons Sugar 1/4 Teaspoon Vanilla

• Heat oven to 375 F. • Separate biscuits. Dip tops and sides of biscuits in melted butter. Dip biscuits, covering tops and sides, in sugar. Place sugar-side up on ungreased baking sheet.

Bake 13-17 minutes, or until golden brown.

Click to watch video to see how to make this recipe!

• To make strawberry mixture: In medium bowl, mix strawberries and sugar. Set aside.

• To make whipped cream: In small bowl, beat whipping cream and sugar until soft peaks form. Add vanilla and beat into mixture.

PLAY

• On plate, split biscuits and put dollop of whipped cream mixture on bottom half of biscuit. Add strawberry mixture. Replace biscuit top and dollop with whipping cream.

Source: www.Culinary.net SUMMER 2022 l

21

Richmond

Sugar Land

Independence Day Celebration Saturday, July 2nd 9 am - 5 pm George Ranch Historical Park

Red, White and Boom Celebration Monday, July 4th 6 - 10 pm The Crown Festival Park 18355 Southwest Freeway

Celebrate our great Nation at the George Ranch. Come and let Freedom Ring together! Step back in time and experience the history of an authentic American cattle ranch and learn about the local people who made this county great. Activities for the day will include square dancing with the Houston Square and Round Dancing Council, cowboy campfire popcorn and patriotic-themed paper crafts!

Buy general admission tickets today by visiting https:// www.georgeranch.org/event/park-admission.

Stafford Festival Sunday, July 3rd Stafford Centre

6:30 - 11:30 pm

Freedom Rings Concert and Fireworks Monday, July 4th 7 - 9 pm Stafford Centre Theatre Join the 2022 independence Celebration! This two day event starts with a festival on July 3rd and includes a DJ/Band, non-profit booths, kid moonwalks, hayrides and more. The festival is followed by the Freedom Rings Concert presented by the Fort Bend Symphony on July 4th.

Fireworks will begin at 9:15 pm.

For more information, visit https://www.staffordtx.gov/.

22

Enjoy an evening full of patriotic family fun with activities for all ages and a main stage area featuring a variety of local entertainment. Houston’s high-intensity music show band, Hybrid 7, will take the stage along with JoiLux Dueling Pianos. Other special guest appearances will include 2021 Sugar Land Superstar Terrence Alexander Evans, 2021 Jr. Superstar Faith Lee and DJ Babyface Williams will close out the night after one of the largest fireworks displays in Fort Bend County! Fireworks are scheduled to begin at approximately 9 pm.

Festive entertainment and activities will include a Kid Zone from 6-9 pm that will be complete with fun photo opportunities, face painting, airbrush art, trackless trains, rock walls, sports inflatables, carnival games and a variety of information stations.

The annual event is free and open to the public. No tickets are required but attendees will be limited to parking and shuttling capacities. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure their spaces onsite. Gates will open promptly at 5 pm. Once all parking is full, access to the event will be closed and remaining late-comers are encouraged to park and watch the show from their homes or from the shuttle parking lots.

A clear view of the fireworks will made available via livestream on the Sugar Land Parks and Recreation Facebook page at www.facebook.com/SugarLandParks.

A large variety of food and drink options will be available at concession areas.

Due to limited onsite parking, attendees are encouraged to take the shuttle to avoid traffic delays. Shuttle services are available at University of Houston-Sugar Land and Smart Financial Centre. All shuttle traffic will halt for the launching of the fireworks from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm.

For more information, contact 281-275-2825 or check out www.sugarlandtx.gov/RedWhiteandBoom. For other updates, follow Sugar Land Parks and Recreation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @SugarLandParks.

SUMMER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Missouri City

Rosenberg

MCTX Independence Day Festival Monday, July 4th 4 - 9 pm Houston Community College Campus 1600 Texas Parkway

Annual Family 4th Celebration Monday, July 4th 6 - 10 pm Seabourne Creek Nature Park 3831 Highway 36 South

Missouri City’s patriotic tradition offers plenty of fun and excitement for the whole family. Attendees can enjoy a variety of free entertainment, carnival games, live musical performances, tasty treats from local vendors and close out the evening with an amazing fireworks display.

Visit https://www.missouricitytx.gov/ for details.

Enjoy an evening full of patriotism, family, friends and fun with activities for all ages, including music from the hit band Electric Circus, a kid’s zone, bounce houses, horsedrawn wagon rides, informative nature talks from the Texas Master Naturalists and more! If all that fun works up an appetite, many delicious food and beverage options will be available for purchase from some of the area’s most popular food vendors. The event is free and open to the public.

The grand finale of the evening will include a new and improved twenty-minute spectacular and patriotic fireworks show which will begin at approximately 9 pm.

There are two free parking options for the event. Parking will be available immediately south of the event entrance, and event attendees can walk across the footpath into the park grounds. Parking will also be available at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds along with a free shuttle service.

The shuttle will run continuously from 5:30 pm until 10 pm, taking guests to and from the Fairgrounds and Seabourne Creek Nature Park.

Limited seating at the event will be available, so bring a chair or blanket to sit on and bug spray. Do not bring any large items that won’t fit on the shuttle or will be difficult to load off and on the shuttle.

Prohibited items include: Alcohol, drugs or any illegal substances, laser pointers, air horns, drones, remotecontrolled aircraft, cigarettes, cigars or pipes, (smoking is prohibited at Seabourne Creek Nature Park) glass and fireworks of any kind including sparklers.

Pets are allowed on leashes only. The owner is responsible for picking up after their pets. Pets are not allowed on shuttle buses.

For more information about the event or to become an event sponsor, contact Carrie at the Rosenberg Civic Center at 832-595-3520, visit www.rosenbergtx.gov or follow on Facebook @RosenbergTXGov.

Fulshear Fulshear Freedom Fest 2022 Monday, July 4th 6 - 9:30 pm Fulshear High School 9302 Charger Way in Fulshear Come out for an evening of live music from the Bag of Donuts, local food trucks, vendor booths and a spectacular Independence Day Fireworks Show. For more information, visit www.fulshearkaty.com/events.

SUMMER 2022 l

23

J

Oh, Say Can You See

uly 4, 1776, the United States of America declared its independence from the most powerful nation in the world, Great Britain.

Most of the known world thought our Founding Fathers were out of their minds. How could the people ever be trusted to govern themselves? Mr. Washington, Mr. Adams, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Madison, Mr. Hamilton and Mr. Franklin were fools. Did they actually believe they could win? Did they truly believe the common person could be trusted to vote for their leaders?

We all know what happened. Those “foolish” men created the most free, most prosperous, most tolerant nation in human history. The entire world heard the call in the words engraved on the Statue of Liberty, “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to be free.” People came. They are still coming.

There are so many things about our country that make my heart beat so strongly it feels as if it is going to explode from my chest: Coming home and seeing my beautiful wife after six months in the Persian Gulf, hearing Jim Lovell say, “Houston, 13” when the damaged Apollo 13 capsule came through the fire of reentry to splashdown safely, Al Michaels shouting, “Do you believe in miracles? YES!” as our hockey team beat the vastly superior Soviet Union hockey team in the 1980 Lake Placid Olympic Games.

Another patriotic moment I’ll always cherish is watching 27year old Whitney Houston belting out our national anthem at Super Bowl XXV in 1991. Here is the video of Whitney if you are too young to remember: https://youtu.be/dtdhxqGmWKU

24

The Star-Spangled Banner is our national anthem. The music came from a popular English drinking song, To Anacrenon in Heaven. No kidding. The lyrics were written by American Francis Scott Key. Some days during the twelve years I served in the United States House of Representatives, I felt “The Shining City on a Hill” that America always aspired to be was transforming into an old house in a flood zone. Congress was a hyperpartisan group who refused to compromise and loved to fight.

In a 2013 poll by Public Policy Polling, more Americans had a higher opinion of root canals than Congress. It wasn’t close.

Root canals 56%, Congress 32%, Not sure 12%. On the bright side, Congress whipped meth labs 60% to 21%. It is sometimes difficult to be a member of a group held in such high esteem by your bosses, the American people.

During these moments, I would remember the story of Francis Scott Key, and the creation of The Star-Spangled Banner. It is a remarkable story of love for the United States of America.

Every time I hear the song, I try to put myself in Key’s shoes.

He was born in the middle of the American Revolution – August 1, 1779. His parents were British subjects. He was always an American. The British never got over the fact American revolutionaries broke away from King George’s tyrannical rule. The British kept hassling and seizing our trade ships overseas and imprisoning American sailors. On June 18, 1812, we formally declared war against Great Britain. The War of 1812 had begun.

Once again, we were fighting the most powerful navy and army in the world. And just like the Revolutionary War, we lost all the initial battles. On August 24, 1814, the British captured Washington, D.C. and burned our Capitol Building and the White House to the ground. Their next target was one of our greatest ports – Baltimore. One of Key’s friends had been arrested by the British invaders. Key went to the flagship of the British fleet in Chesapeake Bay to negotiate his release. It was a success, but the British would not let Key and his friend leave.

They knew Baltimore was going to be attacked, and that information must not be allowed to leak to the Americans. So, Key and his friend were put on a “truce ship” in Baltimore Harbor.

The key to capturing Baltimore was taking Fort McHenry. The British kindly gave Key a “front row seat” for the destruction of Fort McHenry. The fort could be seen from Key’s “truce ship.”

He could see the huge, 30 feet by 42 feet, flag flying over the fort. Key knew as long as that flag was flying, the Americans were winning the battle.

SUMMER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

As darkness set in, Key was bracing for a sleepless night, waiting for dawn to see if our flag was down and Fort McHenry captured. God/fate was with Key that evening. The British bombs illuminated the night sky when they exploded. With every explosion, Key had one or two seconds to see if our flag was still flying over Fort McHenry. To describe his sleepless night and his pride in America, Key wrote, “And the rocket’s red glare, the bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.”

The American Battlefield Trust’s map of the Bombardment of Fort McHenry. https://www.battlefields.org/learn/maps/fort-mchenryseptember-13-14-1814 On September 13, 1814, during daylight hours in the rain, the British fleet started pouring artillery shells down on Fort McHenry. Key could see and hear the explosions over the fort.

Our flag was tattered, but it was still flying. The sun began to set. To immortalize what he was feeling and what he was seeing, Key wrote “What so proudly we hailed, at the twilight’s last gleaming. Whose broad stripes and bright stars, through the perilous fight. O’er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming.”

Rockets Red Glare by Abraham Hunter. https://www.artofthesouth.com/art-news/abraham-hunternews/78-rockets-red-glare-by-abraham-hunter As the sun rose, Key could clearly see Old Glory standing tall.

The British withdrew. Baltimore would not be captured. “Oh, say does that star-spangled banner yet wave. O’er the land of the free, and the home of the brave.” America would win the War of 1812, and we would forever have the most beautiful, inspiring and glorious national anthem the world has ever known!

On the 4th of July, while you are enjoying hot dogs, hamburgers, fajitas, potato chips, ice cream and fireworks shows with your family, you will undoubtedly hear The Star-Spangled Banner. All I ask is that you stand. if possible, take off your hat, put your right hand over your heart, reflect on the words of that sacred song, and sing our national anthem as loudly and proudly as you can.

America Strong is Fort Bend Strong!

Walter Martin Baumhofer’s The Star Spangled Banner. https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/7-unbelievableimages-of-the-bombardment-of-fort-mchenry-where-thenational-anthem-was-written/ SUMMER 2022 l

25

By Alisa Murray www.alisamurray.com

H

Thyme

ey Sweet Lifers! One of the most versatile herbs to have in your garden is thyme. There are more than 400 different species used from culinary to medicinal to just fabulously decorative. The tiny petite flowers are a pretty addition to plates, and the scent is lovely when making floral arrangements from your gardens.

The history of thyme has been documented as far back as 2750 BC. The Sumerians used it as a dried herb and prepared it with fruit to make poultices. The Egyptians used it to embalm the dead, as to be expected, and Hippocrates recommended thyme for helping to clear the lungs. It also was used as a repellent for venomous snakes, insects, and during the Black Death in the 1340s, the Europeans would wear necklaces weaved with thyme to protect them during the pandemic.

Medicinally speaking this herb contains the biocides thymol, which are substances that can destroy harmful bacteria. It has been studied and found to show correlations with test rats that there are some benefits for patients suffering from various infections both fungal and bacterial as, well as hyper tension and some cancers. Of course it has also been used to preserve foods, keeping them safe from food borne illnesses stemming from contact with Enterococcus, Escherichia, Pseudomonas

26

and Staphylococcus strains.

Additionally, there is potentially some effective protection against the bacteria that cause acne and Propionibacterium acnes, using thyme oil into a base cream for treatment.

Culinary uses are so broad it would take me much more space than I have allowed here to describe, but suffice it to state the herb thyme spans across dishes as simple as sprinkling the fresh leaves over eggs, pasta and poultry, to infusing the leaves into oils, such as olive and using on grilled mains and sides, to making simple syrups for cocktails and even adding to ice cream. I often add it to my preserves with lemon when cooking down and making blueberry jams. I never make a chicken soup without it either as it adds a richness that cannot be missed. For so many reasons, it is an herb for everyone as it is delicate and not too overpowering and can switch easily depending on what you are making from both savory to sweet! It’s also an easy one to grow, and one you should try in your own gardens.

Keep on Growing!

SUMMER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

NEWSWORTHY

The Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) is pleased to announce Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital as the Title Sponsor for their signature event, the Sugar Plum Market, which is their annual fundraiser. Thus far, Sugar Plum Market has raised $3.7 million for Fort Bend County charities. Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital has been a Title Sponsor of Sugar Plum Market since 2015.

“We are proud of our continued partnership and support as the Title Sponsor of the Fort Bend Junior Service League’s Sugar Plum Market. We share the commitment to service and giving back to our community,” commented Malisha Patel, Senior Vice President and CEO of Memorial Hermann Southwest and Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital.

FBJSL’s 2022 Sugar Plum Market will be held at the Stafford Centre Performing Arts Theatre and Convention Center with shopping days Thursday, November 3rd through Saturday, November 5th. This event will kick-off with a special Preview Night event on Wednesday, November 2nd.

Sponsorship and underwriting opportunities are still available to both businesses and individuals. The Market is also seeking donations for their Premium Raffle. Please contact sponsors@ fbjsl.com and raffle@fbjsl.com to find out more information.

Tickets will go on sale on September 1st, and visit www.sugarplummarket. com for more information. To keep up with the latest news and updates, be sure to follow @sugarplummarket on Instagram and Facebook.

Fort Bend Junior Service League and Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Announce Partnership for 2022 Sugar Plum Market

Sarah Poole, Marketing Manager; FBJSL Board Member Theresa Shmerling; CoChairs Cherie Lyne Bouterie and Monica Hasty; Matt Kelly, Vice President, Operations; Seleria Fletcher, Vice President, Chief Nursing Officer; Kristel Poffinbarger, Vice President, Chief Medical Officer; Malisha Patel, Senior Vice President, Chief Executive Officer; Robert “Chase” Ogden, Associate Vice President, Finance-Community Hospitals; FBJSL President Tanesha Mosley; Co-Chairs Chelsi Oestreich, Ashley Stephens, and Michelle Monterroso; and Karina Martinez, Marketing Specialist.

Submit newsworthy items to Patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com SUMMER 2022 l

27

A

M

A

T

E

U

R

P

H

O

T

O

C

O

N

T

E

S

T

Summer 2022 Winner “Cottage on the Water”

By Sherry Lozier Congratulations you’ve earned a gift certificate!

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

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

A WINNER EVERY ISSUE Each issue’s winner receives a gift certificate and the winning photo will be published in our magazine. To claim your prize, e-mail grace@absolutelyfocusmedia.com.

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

By submitting an entry, the photographer gives Fort Bend Focus Magazine the right to use and publish their photograph. There is no contest deadline.

NO LIMIT TO ENTRIES To submit a digital photo, e-mail the jpeg file to Grace@ absolutelyfocusmedia.com. Digital photos must be 300 dpi HIGH RESOLUTION at size of at least 10” wide.

28

SUMMER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

By Patti Parish-Kaminski, Professional Porch Sitter

It

Summer Breeze

is only mid-June, and this summer thing has gotten real. And frankly, I’ve taken this going pro thing very seriously. Being a Professional Porch Sitter is a serious business, and it’s not for the faint at heart, so I may or may not have had Mr. Kaminski install an air conditioner on my porch. Let’s go with may. In my defense, I am a middle-aged woman living in southeast Texas where heat, humidity and mosquitos reign supreme a minimum of five months out of the year, resulting in endless bad hair days, glistening upper lips and thighs that are constantly stuck together. A girl can only deal with so much.

Growing up I recall many summers without air conditioning at all. Mawmaw and Pawpaw never had AC at their house in northern Louisiana. There were a couple of old box fans, but Mawmaw didn’t particularly like turning those on due to the unnecessary spike such as that would cause in her electricity bill. If the electricity bill surged past that $20 mark, it was a pure tragedy. So, the fans were mostly for show because if company showed up, the fans still weren’t put to use. Company was escorted to the porch to sit a spell and visit and provided with a glass of sweet tea. They never stayed long. Now that I think about it, that was probably part of Mawmaw’s plan.

Getting ready for church on Sunday mornings was a feat in the summer as Mawmaw would always don a dress, and that particular garment required a girdle and stockings. Now if you are en-

SIGN UP

Sweaty summers eliminated with an air-conditioned porch. Thank God for technology! visioning some dainty, pretty little pink lingerie type thing, just stop right there.

Mawmaw was full grown. Her dress size always boasted a 2 in front of it and typically ended in at least a 6. Her girdle was composed of space-age inch thick spandex complete with military-grade stocking clasps that could put an eye out if let loose. Wrestling into this accoutrement was a battle royale that required copious amounts of baby powder to combat the sweat of the effort and promote gliding over the hills and valleys – so much so that the entire bathroom would become enveloped in a dim haze. The grunting, groaning, twisting, bending, cajoling, stuffing and powdering typically lasted a solid ten minutes, and that was just step one. With the undergarments solidly in place, Mawmaw had to take minute, sit on the tiny bathroom stool that I was al-

ways stunned held her, catch her breath in the powdered air and ready herself for phase two – all in 90-plus degree heat.

Phase two went rather quickly. Powdered face to eliminate the glisten, red lipstick – always red – comb the sweaty hair in place and spray liberally with Aquanet, then get that dress on as quickly as possible and get out. Shoes and a purse were grabbed on the way out to catch a nominal breeze on the porch.

Once in the car, the air conditioning was turned on full blast, and we could all breathe for the eight-minute ride to the church. Unfortunately, our cool respite was short-lived, because the church did not feature the modern convenience of air conditioning.

After an hour of literally hellfire and brimstone accompanied by rapid fanning – Mawmaw was Southern Baptist – we would stand in the long line to shake the preacher’s hand, remark on his wonderful sermon and get back to the much-needed arctic blast at high noon.

By the time the sticky got blown out of our clothes, we were back home peeling off our Sunday best eating dinner in 100 degrees. Point of reference: dinner is lunch in the South and supper is dinner.

Thing is I never remember being hot in the summer at Mawmaw’s house. The windows and doors were always open, my cousins were always around, we always played outside until dark and there was always plenty of amazing homemade food. We all washed dishes because we were the dishwasher. We all had to agree what to watch at night because there was one television with four channels. There were no arguments over the temperature because there was no AC. There was no issue over who slept where because there was one big room with beds that we all piled in. There was no discussion over what we wanted for supper because we ate what Mawmaw cooked. And we never argued over where we were going because we only went to my cousin’s baseball games, the grocery store or to church. That’s what I remember about the summers of my childhood – not the temperature.

See y’all next week – on my air-conditioned porch!

FREE Subscription

Emailed To Your Mailbox or Follow at www.Facebook.com/OnThePorchWithPatti

absolutely AUTO REVIEW

By Steve Kursar

2022 TOYOTA TUNDRA

T

he 2022 Toyota Tundra is all-new for this model year.

Toyota’s full-size truck was extensively redesigned from top to bottom and sports two new powertrains that deliver much better fuel economy when compared to the last generation’s Tundra. This is a truck aimed squarely at truck buyers who consider Toyota their brand.

The first generation Tundra appeared on American highways back in 1999 and was designed slightly smaller than other fullsize trucks on the market. The second-generation Tundra, introduced in 2006 as a true full-sized pickup, was the first Toyota truck built in Texas at its assembly plant in San Antonio. It was powered by the massive 5.7 liter V8 engine that was awfully thirsty at the gas pump. Although this Tundra experienced several refreshes to update its look, the underpinnings of the truck remained the same. In the highly competitive full-size pickup market, the second generation Tundra was long overdue for a complete makeover.

And now, the third-generation 2022 Toyota Tundra has emerged as an all-new pickup, and it’s a delight to drive. With a base MSRP of $35,950, the Tundra is available with two powertrains, a gas-only engine and a more powerful gas-electric hybrid engine. The base Tundra comes equipped with the gasonly 389 hp, 3.5 liter i-Force aluminum block twin-turbo engine.

For more power, the 437 hp, i-Force MAX hybrid system combines the same 3.5 liter twin-turbo gasoline engine with an electric motor/generator located between the engine and the transmission. Both gas and hybrid engines are paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission. With the base i-Force engine, EPA estimated fuel economy ratings are 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. The i-Force MAX gets slightly better street mileage with 20 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.

The new Tundra’s exterior is distinguished by a massive grill and lots of very bright LED lighting. Only two cab configurations are available, the Double Cab and the roomier CrewMax. The Tundra’s interior features Toyota’s all-new Audio Multimedia system which operates via newly designed touchscreens and an all-new Human Machine Interface that delivers improved interaction through sight, touch and voice activation.

The available 14-inch touchscreen impresses with high-quality, crisp visuals including functionality like pinch and zoom that mimic your smartphone.

The all-new Toyota Tundra is a long-overdue upgrade from last year’s model and is sure to win over new truck buyers.

30

SUMMER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

NEWSWORTHY

47th Annual Vintage Glass and Antique Show

Come on out to the 47th Vintage Glass and Antique Show and Sale on August 20th and 21st at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds, located at 4310 Hwy. 36 South in Rosenberg.

Early shopping hours are 8 am to 10 am with an admission fee of $10, which is also good for regular shopping hours both Saturday and Sunday. Regular shopping hours are 10 am to 5 pm on Saturday and 11 am to 4 pm on Sunday. Admission for regular hours is $6 and good for both days.

Dealers from across the country will feature glassware items from pre 1900 through the 1970’s including a wide variety of colorful 1930’s depression era glass, elegant glass, kitchenware, Mid-century glass, pottery and dinnerware.

The antiques building will feature one-of-a-kind antiques and collectibles. From vintage primitives, linens, jewelry, kitchen items and furniture, there is truly something for everyone.

There is free parking, air-conditioned buildings, a food and drink concession in the antique building with on-site repair of damaged glass, silver and jewelry.

Call Nancy Norman for questions and details at 281-240-0382 or visit www.houstonglassclub.org.

Tax Accountants

Auditors

Consultants

Time is Money For All of Your Accounting Needs Call 281.242.3232 or

e-mail info@cpa-tx.com for a free consultation.

12603 Southwest Freeway, Suite 165 Stafford, TX 77477 www.cpa-tx.com SUMMER 2022 l

31

OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART

Congratulations to Fort Bend Focus on Father’s Day winner Michael Allen of Richmond! Allen won the Dad’s Day Prize Package Fit for a King with gifts from The Houston Museum of Natural Science-Sugar Land, Alisa Murray Photography, Salon Eben & Day Spa, The Rosenberg Railroad Museum, Cullinan Park Conservancy, The George Ranch Historical Park, Brandani’s Burgers, Tacos & Brews and Chris Dostal’s Designs in Fine Jewelry. Special thanks to all of our participating sponsors!

OF THE BEND

Patti Parish-Kaminski surprised dad, grandad and great-grandad Michael Allen of Richmond by delivering the Dad’s Day Prize Package and had the pleasure of meeting Mrs. Dianne Allen, two daughters and two granddaughters. Special thanks to the Allen family for helping coordinate a very special delivery. We hope your Father’s Day was the best ever Michael Allen!

Congratulations to Seth & Alexander who recently launched their newest service line: S & A Wealth Advisors. The kickoff was attended by principals, the Seth & Alexander team and clients at Mercedes Benz Greenway. This new division, the fourth for Manish Seth and Manuel Alexander, will allow the team to provide customized wealth advisory solutions to clients.

Umami Japanese Restaurant’s Jennifer Park and Jessica Park with Patti Parish-Kaminski at their new restaurant located at 18921 University Blvd in Sugar Land. A locally owned restaurant by these two friends originally from Las Vegas, Umami offers the most creative and delicious sushi and Japanese cuisine – close to home.

Manish Seth, Juan Rascon, Bill Pilkington and Manuel Alexander.

32

SUMMER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital joined nearly 15.5 million American cancer survivors who celebrated the 35th Annual National Cancer Survivors Day® in June. Also recognized were the many family members, caregivers and health care providers whose support of cancer survivors help make the celebration possible. The Healing Power of Love themed Cancer Survivors Day Celebration and Resource Fair was held at the Houston Marriott Sugar Land in the Town Square. News anchor Shern-Min Chow from KHOU 11 emceed the event with keynote speaker Jason David, singer, storyteller and cancer survivor. Photos by Kelley Sweet Photography.

Stephanie Purka and Elizabeth Price.

Jason David, speaker, singer and cancer survivor, encouraged the crowd through speech and song.

Event emcee Shern-Min Chow, KHOU Channel 11 news anchor; Amy Sebastian-Deutsch, Director, Oncology & Infusion Services; Chris Siebenaler, Regional Senior Vice President and CEO at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital and Frances Goerlich, Director, Radiation Oncology.

Shern-Min Chow with mother and daughters, three of whom are breast cancer survivors, Nancy Labrada-Muras, Elva Labrada, Tamara Labrada-Carlon, Luz Yadira Labrada-Peña, Diana Labrada-Rivera and Adriana Gumbs.

SUMMER 2022 l

33

OUT &

OakBend Medical Center hosted their first Donuts and Designers benefit held at Braman Winery. Guests played ten rounds of bingo plus a Black Out game to win Designer purses. It was a huge success!

ABOUT IN THE HEART

OF THE BEND

Caylin Wright Boyd, Madelyn Herfort, Maddi West and Ali McDonald Willard.

Patti Parish-Kaminski and Ray Aguilar.

Doris Gurecky, Christy Willman and Joe Freudenberger.

Shelley Richards and Cindy Haley.

Kay Garrett, Kim Feldhoff and Wanda Kolkhorst.

Kay Danziger, Janice Knight and Tama Dorman.

Elizabeth Duff Drozd and Patti Parish-Kaminski.

34

SUMMER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

Fort Bend Friends and Neighbors Award Scholarships to Graduating High School Seniors Fort Bend Friends and Neighbors (FBFN) is a social organization bringing ladies of Fort Bend County together for fellowship and fun. The charitable arm of the FBFN social club is the FBFN Foundation. The Foundation was established in the fall of 2012 as a 501(c)3 non- profit, tax-exempt Texas organization.

The Foundation’s primary focus is to provide scholarships to graduating seniors or current college students who attend or will be attending Fort Bend County colleges. Since 2005 the Foundation has awarded $310,000 in scholarships. Applications will open again in January 2023.

The FBFN Social club is in the process of creating a cookbook with recipes from some of the finest cooks in the county who are members of the organization. All

NEWSWORTHY

FBFN 2022-2023 Sharon Svendson, Scholarship Chairperson, Kevin DeJong, Cassandra Fuentes, Bria Shepherd, Janet Meza, Emily Salgado, Sameer Goswami, Imara Karim, Jiana Ugaddan, Hiba Rizvi and Shelby Santana. net proceeds will benefit the scholarship program. Books go on sale September 29th just in time for Christmas gift giving.

Contact Joy Dowell at 281.844.4982 or dowell44@gmail.com for more informa-

tion or to order your cookbook. Go to the website to donate to the scholarship program at www.fbfn.org. For information on joining the social club, complete an application online at www.fbfn.org.

Stafford MSD Names 2021-22 District Teacher and Rookie Teacher of the Year At the close of the 2021-22 school year, Stafford MSD hosted an awards ceremony to honor employees of the year on Tuesday, June 7th. District Teacher of the Year was awarded to Meghann Adkins, a U.S. History and AP Human Geography teacher. District Rookie Teacher of the Year went to Meredith Mohr, an English Language Arts and AP Language and Composition teacher.

Both teachers were selected from Stafford High School, under the leadership of Principal Raymond Root, where nearly 1,000 students attend including over 250 seniors who graduated last weekend.

Adkins won the Teacher of the Year category at her campus, all secondary grade level campuses and district overall. Adkins originally started at Stafford Middle School and, this year, got an opportunity to teach former students once again at Stafford High School. In the classroom, she utilizes Socratic seminars to encourage students to interact and seek a deeper understanding while discussing a variety of topics dealing with humanities.

Mohr won the Rookie Teacher of the Year category on her campus, all secondary grade level campuses and district overall. From her own years in high school, Mohr has always had a passion for writing and journalism. She loves applying her real-life experience with students more than anything and firmly believes that building relationships is a major key to success in the classroom.

Superintendent Dr. Robert Bostic said, “We have stellar teachers and we’re honored to have them represent SMSD in

Region 4 and Texas. They’re outstanding educators and we are lucky to have them.”

All five campuses at Stafford MSD each selected a Teacher and Rookie Teacher of the Year, respectively. The Stafford Early Childhood Center selected Johanna Chesser and Endia Hedgepeth. The Stafford Elementary School selected Angel Porter and James Mas. The Stafford Middle School selected Byron Thompson and Melton Finley. The STEM Magnet Academy selected Carolina Sievers and Vandana Kalanee.

The district would like to express extreme gratitude to every employee including operations, support, clerical, teachers and administration. Every individual plays a significant role on campus and makes the district an exponentially better place for Spartan students and success. A collection of videos for employees of the year has been added to a playlist on the district’s YouTube channel.

PLAY

SUMMER 2022 l

35

Living the Sweet Life:

H

Time to be Mine

ey Sweet Lifers! There’s a running joke between me and my oldest and best friend about when to buy things. Not the items that everybody needs eventually like furniture, appliances and houses, but the personal stuff that makes life a little sweeter. You know the pocket books, jewelry, clothes.

And as of late, our conversations are daily leaning towards what trees and plants to buy! That, we tell each other, is because we are now able to be stewards of mother earth. Although that may be true, I seem to find myself rapidly getting older with every conversation. Amazing how these things happen!

Amy Jo has always had a problem with the sweeter stuff mainly because she is more frugal than me and also she has a faith that if she’s supposed to have it, well it will just still be waiting for her when she comes back for it.

Over the years I have more than once given her my, “I told you to go ahead and buy it” moment as she called lamenting the lavender at Lowe’s last year that she had “fallen in love with” and went back to find it all gone or that dress at Target that she actually tried on in the store, and it fit perfectly. She left and went back two days later to find it gone. These things, much to my sweet Brian’s lament, do not happen to me . . . well not as much.

I tend to see it, and buy it, and if I get home with it and it “doesn’t work,” I take it back, but I do not let something that catches my eye get left behind very often.

This requires less stress for me than wondering if that “something” might be an eye catcher for someone else too while I have abandoned it to think on if it should be mine.

Sometimes, though rarely, I am like Amy Jo. I usually find myself in this situation when it comes to a piece of jewelry.

And that is exactly what I have been finding myself dealing with in a self-induced stress over a leather cuff that for the past four years has resided in Waxhaw, North Carolina. Each year I have visited my favorite store when

36

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

traveling in to visit family, and for four years I have found the cuff laying patiently waiting to be brought to its home. I would even try it on each year and tell myself, “You don’t need this,” a rare thing for me to do indeed! This time, though, I was a lot more sentimental than usual, and with each life event, I do usually purchase a piece of jewelry. It’s always been my thing to do so, that having been a tradition I was taught as a child. My mother’s princess ring when I turned 16, a gold watch upon graduation, my mother’s emeralds that she was wearing when she was killed, marking my marriage to sweet Brian. With each life milestone, I have a “something” to remember it by, and that same “something” to pass to the next generation. Something special with meaning and of excellent quality.

So, having come home to bury our last parenting pillar, my beautiful mother-in-law, Barbara Ann, who has been my mother for 33 years and long ago out-mothered my own, it seemed fitting to go back and see if that little “something” was still there. It was. The artist has carved and molded a beautiful rendition of the dogwood blossom, the state flower. At it’s center is a cluster of rough hand cut amethyst which is my birthstone. North Carolina is where Brian and I were born and raised, and suddenly I smiled and said to myself, “It’s time to make you mine.”

Something in me felt at peace and simultaneously a sense that I was complete and ready for our next chapters without a mother. Each time I look at it, I will remember the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway, the smell of red-eye gravy over grits, the best days of my childhood and my sweet Barbara Ann! Take Care of YOU and Stay “Sweet!”

SUMMER 2022 l TO ADVERTISE, EMAIL: patti@absolutelyfocusmedia.com

What ’s new for

(Click on all titles to subscribe for FREE)

Coming directly to your inbox – the people, places and happenings of your community – now easier to access than ever before!

Sign up to receive your community news

! e e r f y l e t absolu SUMMER 2022 l

37