November 2010

PEOPLE

6th Year Anniversary Issue

•

PLA C E S

•

H A P P E N I N G S

NOVEMBER 2010

Ballet Forte’s 15th Anniversary Performance

The Nutcracker What’s Inside

$

2.95

• 12 Days of Christmas Preview • Holiday Entertaining & Dining • Scenes from Jewels of Fort Bend

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID DALLAS, TX PERMIT NO 2337

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Dr. James Pearce • Dr. Robbyn Franklin • Dr. Joe Anzaldua • Dr. Karen Rakers • Dr. Owen Capocyan

OakBend Medical Group consists of a community-minded group of physicians who provide services in the heart of Fort Bend County.

We offer many locations for the convenience of our patients.

Our services are provided by excellent physicians whose specialties include Family Practice, Infectious Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ear Nose and Throat, Geriatrics, Weight Loss, Home Visits, Nursing Home Visits and Hospice Care.

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Coming Soon: • Morton Road / Grand Parkway • Fulshear

Compounding Corner ® Pharmacy, Inc. THE ONLY PCAB-ACCREDITED COMPOUNDING PHARMACY IN FORT BEND COUNTY PCAB IS ENDORSED BY THE AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION AND THE AMERICAN VETERINARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION.

DON’T HAVE YOUR COMPOUNDED PRESCRIPTIONS WITH US YET? NOT A PROBLEM. GIVE US A CALL AND WE WILL TRANSFER THEM FOR YOU. YOUR SOURCE FOR BIO-IDENTICAL HORMONE REPLACEMENT. Reasons you should transfer your business to us:

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• SAME DAY PROCESSING: We finish everything the same day. (Ok - Disclaimer time: If you don’t have refills, you will have to wait until your doctor approves it. If we have to order an ingredient, it will be made when it arrives.

We close at 6:00 PM. If we finish it after 6:00 PM, it’ll be ready for pickup or shipping the next business morning.)

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Excludes corvettes, synthetic oils and Diesels

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GREG PAGANS Body Shop Manager

General Motors: 281.342.4200 Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge: 281.342.9318

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        

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     www.fortbend

.com • November 2010

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features 20 Decorated Army Veteran Receives Medals Vietnam War veteran and Rosenberg resident Bud Toll receives long overdue honors: seven medals he earned while serving his country over 40 years ago.

20

30 Preview Fort Bend County’s 12 Days of Christmas

From the Sugar Land Tree Lighting to a Christmas Musicale, get a sneak-peek of the best attractions and events happening this holiday season.

54 Wolf Creek Ski Lodge 30

Gorgeous views and a laid-back atmosphere coupled with more than 400 inches of snow-fall each year make this lodge a perfect vacation spot for Fort Bend families.

64 The New Imperial Theater Debuts with ‘Steel Magnolias’ 54

Imperial Performing Arts brings world-class performance arts to Sugar Land’s Town Square as it opens the doors of it’s intimate Imperial Theater.

68 Building Family through Fitness

Local wife and mother Jennifer Breedlove brings her family together in the gym and the pay-off is priceless.

64

73 Major League Baseball Executive Jimmie Solomon Hits a Home Run... in his Home Town Solomon returns home to stress the importance of education to FBISD students and how it leads to the major leagues in success.

74 The Jewels of Fort Bend

The 2010 Joyous, Extraordinary Women Enriching Lives

83 Shop Fort Bend for the Holidays 68

The ultimate guide in holiday gift giving.

fort bend

magazine • November 2010

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COVER STORY 16 BalletForte’s 15th Anniversary Celebration of The Nutcracker

departments

Experience the magic of the holiday season with dazzling choreography, a live orchestra and spectacular costumes in this enchanting rendition of The Nutcracker that is sure to delight the young and old alike.

24 Focus on Finance 26 Focus on Health 28 High School Hot Shot 32 Caring for the Community 34 Seen on the Scene 40 Fort Bend Headliners 48 Community Calendar 52 Focus Cares 58 Fort Bend New Neighbor 66 Focus Film Review 70 Focus Scrapbook 71 Focus Photo Winner 82 Fort Bend Kids Chalkboard 86 Medical Focus 90 Focus Favorites - NEW!!!

92 Focus on Flavor Dining Guide 96 Living the Sweet Life

Celeste Herweck and Isabel Araujo are both dancing the title role of Clara in this year’s BalletForte production of The Nutcracker.

Photo by Michael Banigan fort bend

magazine • November 2010

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Some friends are great on road trips. Some friends are great at dinner parties. Some friends will get breast cancer. Get a mammogram.

State-of-the-art BreaSt CanCer DiagnoStiCS: Digital Mammography Breast Ultrasound Breast MRI MRI Guided Biopsy Ultrasound Biopsy Stereotactic Biopsy A special thank you to the Fort Bend Junior Service League members who are the faces of our Women’s Health Campaign.

Reminding a friend to schedule a mammogram could save her life. According to The National Cancer Institute, the most effective ways to detect breast cancer early are getting a high-quality screening mammogram and having a clinical breast exam on a regular basis.

You can rest assured that at the Breast Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital you and your friend will receive the high-quality mammogram you need. It is the only full-service center of its kind in Fort Bend County that women can rely on for dedicated breast radiology expertise, state-of-the-art technology and compassionate care.

Call 281-242-PINK (7465) to schedule a mammogram at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

LEADING MEDICINEÂŽ Spine BreastCenter Center

16655 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, Texas 77479 281-242-PINK (7465) MethodistSugarLand.com

P

ublisher’s Preview www.fortbendfocus.com

Hello Fort Bend Friends, I cannot believe I am saying this but, Happy Holidays everyone. WOW, what a whirlwind of a year, 2010! We have plenty to share with you this month. Fort Bend Focus has put together a preview, page 30, for our annual 12 Days of Christmas that everyone finds so helpful when planning their family traditions for the holidays.

This is our 6th anniversary issue, and we decided to celebrate along with the 15th anniversary of Ballet Forte’s The Nutcracker performed at the Stafford Centre. We are so excited to feature them on our cover this year. Congratulations to all of the dancers.

We are also so proud of our veterans. Fort Bend Focus was honored to cover one of our veterans, Bud Toll, who after 40 years, finally received his medals that he so richly deserved. What a special Veterans Day this will be for him. Read all about it on page 20.

If you have not seen or heard about Fort Bend’s own Imperial Performing Arts opening up in the

November 2010 Vol. 7 No. 1 4655 Techniplex Dr. Suite 400 Stafford, TX 77477 To advertise call The Focus Magazines’ Team headed up by Lisa Fredrickson at the 2010 Susan G. Komen Race For The cure.

Sugar Land Town Square, please take time to read about their inaugural production, “Steel Magnolias,” this month on page 64.

Have a great holiday season, and we will see you back here next month for December, People, Places, and Happenings!

Stay Focused!

281-690-4242

TOLL FREE 1-888-430-7469 Direct mailed to subscribers and high value homes in Sugar Land, Richmond, Katy, Missouri City and Fulshear and picked up at demand distribution locations throughout Fort Bend.

Single copy $2.95 PUBLISherS Michael Fredrickson Lisa Fredrickson MANAGING eDItor Patti Parish-Kaminski

Lisa Fredrickson

Lisa@Fortbendfocus.com

SeNIor ACCoUNt eXeCUtIve Jessica Kij ACCoUNt eXeCUtIveS Dena Perry April Lambert Shanna Sanders

READERS FEEDBACK Touched by our October cover story Dear Lisa, I wanted to express my gratitude to you on being honored to be on the cover for the October issue of Fort Bend Focus. Many of our fellow citizens in the community acknowledged how our story touched them.

However, the most profound response came to me from a stranger who stopped me in the store Party City on Friday, October 1. She was there to buy Thank You cards. She expressed how she had read the cover story the night before and was very moved and encouraged. That Friday was the first day out of her house since her breast cancer surgery the week before. She is the mother of twin, 6 1/2 year olds, and is beginning to understand that it is for most, a manageable disease and to not let it define who she is. Also, I want to encourage our fellow citizens to lift up families who are challenged by any chronic or terminal illness and become a source of information and hope to friends, family and neighbors, (and your magazine is a great source). This in turn makes our community one where we all will want to continually live.

I hope the Fort Bend Focus understands that your coverage of a challenging subject has allowed your readers to be inspired by the entire magazine and I applaud your efforts to continually serve our wonderful community in so many ways--ways that you may never hear but none the less are truly accomplishing...

Sincerely, Mary Favre fort bend

Our October issue is the most informative...

Hi Lisa, This October issue of Fort Bend Focus is the most informative issue to date on Breast Health and Awareness! It has it all - from inspirational SOS members Melanie Frederick, testimonies to guiding Rosemary Herron & Marilyn Seiler women in pursuit of at the 2010 Susan G. Komen Race For The Cure. better breast health and diagnostics! Thank you for the article about my support group, Survivors Offering Support (SOS) which has officially become part of the Methodist Hospital Sugar Land family. You also featured an article about my dear SOS sister and founder of SOS, Janet Ely. She has been continually giving to the BRCA community since the day she was diagnosed and is the reason so many of us survivors have a positive attitude. Thank you for sharing her story. You are one of our staunchest supporters and we are blessed by your dedication to providing the best, most accurate information to the Fort Bend Community.

Blessings, Rosemary Herron Correction: We apologize for the misprint of Dr. Sandra Templeton’s telephone number on our October issue, page 48. The correct telephone number should be 281-494-3000. For more information on her practice, please visit templetonbreastcare.com. magazine • November 2010

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oFFICe MANAGer Norma Loredo CoNtrIBUtorS Will Hardee Alisa Murray Nick Nicholson Dr. Peter Osborne Tanya Sterling Melinda Wood Art DIreCtor Grace Belleza ASSoCIAte Art DIreCtor Joey Belleza GrAPhIC DeSIGNer Elizabeth Pace WeB DeSIGNer Joey Belleza (JOBpagegraphics.com)

oN

the

Cover

Ballet Forte’s The Nutcracker Cover Photo:

Bruce Parsons

The views and opinions expressed by our advertisers and columnists do not necessarily reflect those of the publishers and their staff. c 2010

One year subscription: $25

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The Imperial Medical Center 1111 Hwy Land, TX 77478 Hwy 6, 6,Suite Suite185 185• Sugar • Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.fortbend

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.com • July 2008

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TEXAS DIRECT AUTO MAKES MAJOR COMMITMENT TO PARKS YOUTH RANCH IN RICHMOND

n a move that is sure to have long lasting implications, Texas Direct Auto has made a commitment to provide substantial financial assistance for habitants of the new Fred & Mabel R. Parks Youth Ranch currently under construction in Richmond. This is another in a growing number of commitments by Texas Direct Auto, the nation’s largest independent car dealership located in Stafford, to assist youth in Fort Bend County.

According to Linda Shultz, Parks Youth Ranch Director, “It was a welcome surprise when Texas Direct Auto called me and offered to help Parks Youth Ranch help homeless youth. They generously offered to help organize and underwrite the cost of the Grand Opening of the Fred and Mabel R. Parks Youth Ranch and then also offered to provide the Thanksgiving Dinner and Christmas decorations for the new shelter. We greatly appreciate all they are doing to help at-risk youth in our community.”

The Parks Youth Ranch is the brainchild of several hardworking members of St. Laurence Catholic Church, who in 2004 began to research homelessness in Fort Bend County, study shelters elsewhere, conduct a survey of homeless teens in school, and develop collaborative partnerships with other agencies. As tragic truths were unveiled, they realized the need for a Fort Bend County youth shelter for homeless and at-risk youth.

The ranch will offer vulnerable teens in Fort Bend County two methods of assistance: The George Counseling Center

and The Ranch Shelter. The George Counseling Center will provide on-site counseling intervention, consultation and assessment surrounding family issues/crisis for youth and their families.

The Ranch sheltering will provide up to 90 day licensed emergency shelter for youth ages 13-17.

Referrals for temporary housing may come from the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, Juvenile Probation and voluntary, private placements from the community (teachers, counselors, religious leaders, friends, etc).

Parks Youth Ranch has asked Arrow Child and Family Ministries (Arrow) to become a partner and operate the shelter program. Arrow has developed, implemented and operates various disciplines of social service programming in order to serve vulnerable children and families in communities across the U.S. and abroad.

Texas Direct Auto Director of Business Development Jessica DeMarr stated, “Our commitment to the youth of Fort Bend County will never be more evident than our relationship with the Parks Youth Ranch. We encourage other businesses throughout the county to take a step of faith and join us as we conquer the situations that these children face.”

Parks Youth Ranch is a 501(C)(3) non-profit organization.

All donations, large or small, are critical to meeting the needs of these youth. Parks Youth Ranch relies on donations from individuals, churches, civic organizations, corporations and foundations. For more details, visit www.parksyouthranch.org.

SELL US YOUR CAR With over $500+ Million in annual sales, Texas Direct Auto is the Largest Independent dealership in the nation and is the largest eBay Motor’s dealership in the world!

Visit us online or come to Stafford just southwest of Houston to see our huge lot and massive inventory that are sure to have exactly what you are looking for in your next car.

12053 SW Freeway, Stafford Texas 77477 • 281-499-8200

CREATE A FESTIVE MOOD WITHOUT LIFTING A FINGER.

SAVE $50 PER UNIT* ON SELECT MOTORIZED WINDOW FASHIONS. NOW THRU DECEMBER 15TH

This holiday season, receive a $50 mail-in rebate with your purchase of select Hunter Douglas window fashions with patented PowerRise® or PowerGlide® motorized systems. Precisely adjust your shades by remote control and set the mood for any occasion. Ask for details.

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SAVE PER UNIT $25 on Duette® Architella Honeycomb Shades $35 on Vignette® Modern Roman Shades $50 on Silhouette® or Pirouette® Window Shadings $100 on Luminette® Privacy Sheers, Skyline Gliding Window Panels or Duette® Vertiglide Honeycomb Shades

$200 on Duette® Vertiglide Honeycomb Shades with Duolite® Offer expires December 15, 2010. *Rebate offer valid for purchases made 9/25/10 – 12/15/10. Limitations and restrictions apply. Ask for details. ©2010 Hunter Douglas. ® and TM are trademarks of Hunter Douglas.

fort bend

magazine • November 2010

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COVER STORY

| By Tanya Sterling l Photos from The Nutcracker 2008 l Photos by Bruce Parsons

CLARA AT THE PARTY SCENE (Sasha Parsons)

BalletForte’s

Once Upon A Time...

There was 15th Anniversary Celebration of The Nutcracker!

D

azzling choreography, a live orchestra, spectacular costumes, sold-out shows...welcome to BalletForte’s 15th anniversary celebration of The Nutcracker ballet performance!

BalletForte, one of Fort Bend County’s premier pre-professional ballet companies, is in full rehearsal

mode for it’s highly anticipated, full-length Nutcracker ballet with performances scheduled to start in December. Known for their expressive choreography and eye-catching costumes, BalletForte’s Nutcracker performances will mesmerize attendees.

The coveted role of Sugar Plum will be shared by Lauren Jarrell, Sarah fort bend

magazine • November 2010

16

Dewees, Carley Franklin, and Mallory Mehaffey. Originally written for the Imperial Ballet in St. Petersburg, Russia, the story spins the tale of a young girl, Clara, who dreams about a handsome young prince imprisoned by a magic spell within the figure of a nutcracker. This ballet continues to enchant--transforming realists into romantics, cynics into dreamers, and

SNOWFLAKES (Chrystelle LeRoux, Sarah Dewees & Lauren Jarrell)

DEW DROP FAIRY (Carley Franklin)

CHINESE DANCE (Libby Hollan, Jeiron Wong & Kayla Hyde)

adults into the young at heart.

BalletForte’s rendition of The Nutcracker has been so compelling and popular that they were the first ones to sell out the 1100-seat Stafford Center, based in Stafford, Texas.

“We are anticipating an unforgettable 15th anniversary Nutcracker performance,” said Michael Banigan, co-founder and artistic director of BalletForte. “It’s actually like we are performing for the first time because the kids and staff still feel the same excitement as we did 15 years ago. The faces may change throughout the years, but the spirit of the ballet doesn’t change.”

Established in 1996 by Michael Banigan and Dianne Jarrell, BalletForte’s mission is to increase public awareness of the arts and to promote and foster an appreciation for excellence in classical ballet through education and performance opportunities. Four years after starting BalletForte, the duo founded the Fort Bend Academy of Dance, a dance studio that provides training for beginners through professionals in classes such as Classical Ballet, Pointe, Variations, Pas de Deux, Men’s Technique, Jazz and Tap. “The Fort Bend Academy of Dance was primarily established to provide a training ground and quality performing opportunities for serious, talented dancers seeking professional dance careers.” said Banigan. “However, a dancer does

ARABIAN DANCE (Sarah Dewees & Jeiron Wong)

not have to be a member of the Fort Bend Academy of Dance to dance with BalletForte.”

Auditions for The Nutcracker typically start in late August and are open to all area dancers ranging from 6 years old and up. Leading up to the performance, dancers rehearse 5 to 6 days a week in addition to costume fittings. Adding to the excitement is the addition of new costumes in observance of their anniversary.

“We rehearsed our first Nutcracker performance in three months and approximately twenty dancers performed. I think each dancer had about eight roles,” laughed Jarrell.

“Today, we have about 140 dancers that make up this spectacular production.”

Another feature of this 15-year celebration is the addition of a live 18-member orchestra. In the past, BalletForte has partnered with a live symphony orchestra on annual performances. This year, the company created its own live orchestra, under the direction of Dr. Wayne H. English, Banigan’s high school orchestra director.

“Everything I know about music is from Dr. English. He is talented and has a wonderful energy about him,” said Banigan. “There is nothing like entering the theatre and the orchestra is warming up. There is that noise of anticipation!”

Continued on page 18 www.fortbend

.com • November 2010

17

BalletForte’s Performance Dates for The Nutcracker and Clara’s Nutcracker Tea Clara’s Nutcracker Tea Sunday, December 5th, 2010 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Safari Texas – The Grand Texas Ballroom 11627 FM 1464, Richmond, Texas Admission is $28.00 per guest, and tickets are available by calling 281-799-7554.

Seating is limited and reservations will be accepted through November 29th.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

The Nutcracker Performance Schedule: Friday, December 10th at 7:30 pm Saturday, December 11th at 2:00 pm Saturday, December 11th at 7:30 pm Sunday, December 12th at 2:00 pm The Stafford Centre 10505 Cash Rd., Stafford, Texas 77477 Accompanied by the BalletForte Orchestra directed by Dr. Wayne H. English.

Tickets to BalletForte’s production of The Nutcracker may be purchased by the following methods: 1) In person at the Stafford Centre Box Office 1 hour prior to the performance.

2) By calling 281-799-7554 to reserve tickets with a credit card.

3) In person at Fort Bend Academy of Dance located at 18551 Old Richmond Rd., Sugar Land, TX 77498.

Ticket Prices: Group discounts are available for parties of 15 or greater.

Balcony $14.50 • Mezzanine $20.00 Orchestra $27.50 • Box (4 seats) $150.00 CLARA (Sasha Parsons)

The anticipation and excitement surrounding BalletForte’s Nutcracker performances and Clara’s Nutcracker Tea is palpable.

CLARA AT THE PARTY SCENE (Sasha Parsons)

Continued from page 17

On Friday, December 10, elementary and middle school students in Title I schools in Fort Bend, Lamar, Stafford and Houston are offered a field trip to observe day performances of The Nutcracker which includes an educational “behind the scenes” element.

“One of the many high points for BalletForte is when we host performances for Title I schools. Over 2000 kids and youth attended last year. Usually the magic of the shows happens behind the curtains, but when these students visit us, we open up the curtains and allow them to see what really happens before, during and after the dancing,” said Jarrell. “If it inspires a child to work behind the scenes or dance, that’s great. Their reaction to the actual performance is always satisfying and amazing which is neat because this is the first exposure most of the kids have had to an actual ballet performance.”

Adding to the celebration is a reunion performance of The Nutcracker. On Saturday, December 12th at the 7:30 p.m. show, past company members are invited to help celebrate the anniversary with on-stage recognitions and a reception. Numerous alumni from all over the region will be in attendance.

In addition to the four, full-length performances of The Nutcracker, BalletForte also performs in Clara’s Nutcracker Tea. BalletForte Guild, the non-profit arm of BalletForte, will open the holiday season with the 11th Annual Clara’s Nutcracker Tea on December 5 at the Safari Texas Ranch. The Nutcracker cast will bring the story to life with excerpts from the ballet. Alisa Murray, nationally recognized portrait artist and award-winning columnist, will narrate this classic tale.

“As an artist in the community, it is my pleasure and honor to participate in the story of Clara and The Nutcracker especially since I danced for 12 years and always looked forward to attending The Nutcracker each year as a child,” said Murray.

The 2010 Claras are 13-year-olds Celeste Herweck and Isabel Araujo. BalletForte is inviting the past Claras to the tea in celebration of this anniversary year.

Clara’s Nutcracker Tea has grown into quite an event in Fort Bend County with over 500 attendees last year. There is a high-energy buzz in the Grand Texas Ballroom as girls get dressed up, take pictures with Clara and meet the dancers.

Finger sandwiches are also served as well as lemonade flowing from champagne fountains.

The anticipation and excitement surrounding BalletForte’s Nutcracker performances and Clara’s Nutcracker Tea is palpable. This 15th anniversary celebration of classical ballet, live music and exceptional story-telling is a must-see for the young and old. Let’s not keep the Sugar Plum fairy and Clara waiting! FBF fort bend

THE BATTLE SCENE

POLICHINELLES

WALTZ OF THE FLOWERS (Standing: Christine Perry, Teresa leachman & Rebecca Cheney.

Floor; Mallory Mehaffey, Kelly King & Kayla Hyde)

magazine • November 2010

18

for more information and to purchase tickets visit sugarcreek.net/christmas2010

Veteran’s Day

More Special Than Ever to Decorated Fort Bend Veteran Bud Toll

By Don Maines

Glenda Toll, Walter “Bud” Toll and Brittney Harbison.

T

his Veteran’s Day, November 11th, Vietnam War veteran Walter “Bud” Toll III will be blessed seven-fold.

He’ll be fully dressed with seven medals the Army failed to give him 40 years ago.

The Rosenberg resident will celebrate the occasion at Needville Elementary, where his granddaughter, Samantha “Sam” Preuss, is in second grade. “I’ll see some of the same kids I saw last year, and they’ll say, ‘I remember you,’” said Toll. “It’s stuck with them. That’s what’s amazing. That warms your heart. Sam gets the biggest kick out of it all,” Toll said.

When Toll returned from Vietnam in November 1970, he knew he was missing a good conduct medal that was due him. Last February, he contacted a veterans’ case worker from the office of U.S. Congressman Pete Olson, District 22, after she had told a meeting of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) of TriCounty Chapter 233 that she could check into such matters.

Her research revealed there were actually seven honors Toll hadn’t received.

In addition to the good conduct medals,

he also was due to receive three bronze stars, the Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation with Palm, an expert badge with auto rifle and the Vietnam Civil Actions Honor Medal, First Class.

Olson’s office arranged a ceremony and reception last June in which Toll was presented the overdue honors. Many of his family and friends attended the event at the National Guard Armory in Rosenberg.

The medal ceremony gave the Toll family – including their adult children, Stacey Teague, Miranda Preuss and Dustin Toll - a perfect opportunity to open a discussion about Toll’s military service.

The recognition helped Toll cope fort bend

magazine • November 2010

20

with some of the sting he’s felt about how civilians have treated Vietnam vets compared to American soldiers who fought in other conflicts. “It was an unpopular war, and to me, they treated us bad,” said Toll, 58, who joined the U.S. Army at age 17. He volunteered to serve his country at a time when many his age were protesting the war and trying to avoid the draft.

Seven years ago, Toll joined the local DAV chapter as a support group. His wife, Glenda, belongs to the group’s auxiliary, along with three grandchildren who live with them: Brittney Harbison, 16; Cody Harbison, 15; and Tylar Harbison, 14.

Glenda Toll said, “We explained to (the

grandchildren) that we were doing this as a family to really support Dad. They enjoy it. They’re always eager to participate,” in DAV activities, which range from decorating bags that are auctioned off at conferences to dressing up like reindeer at the annual Christmas party at the Veteran’s Administration hospital and nursing home in Houston.

Toll’s disability is post-traumatic stress disorder from his tour of duty in Vietnam. He often shot a machine gun as a door gunner on helicopters trying to take supplies to the infantry and pick up wounded soldiers in jungle combat zones. The lingering disorder affects his marriage and home life, said Toll.

“My wife has been to Vietnam as many times as I have,” he said. “You fight every day with your memories. You fight to maintain your sanity.”

Glenda Toll said, “It’s a shame what happens. The previous generation - many of them live with anger – but they suffer in silence. It makes me want to break down and cry because there’s help out there.

Then, there is the new generation, I call it.

At the V.A., we see some of them coming back without their limbs.”

Like her husband, she looks forward to Veterans Day each year. “I feel like it’s a day to put it all aside. It brings all veterans together, and all branches of the service. It is a good day to see Bud happy and be proud.” H

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TACLB27392E

MD Anderson now offering cancer surgery in Sugar Land

T

he MD Anderson Regional Care Center in Sugar Land is now offering cancer surgery as they welcome surgical oncologist Richard A. Ehlers, M.D., FACS to their team.

Dr. Ehlers will focus on the surgical management of multiple cancers, including breast, colorectal cancer, and melanoma. As a fellowship trained surgical oncologist, Dr. Ehlers is uniquely qualified to perform surgery on all cancers.

The addition of surgery provides options for those in the Sugar Land and surrounding communities with suspicion of cancer or a cancer diagnosis. They can seek consultations and second opinions at the MD Anderson location in Sugar Land, where Dr. Ehlers and the team will work together to create customized treatment plans for each patient.

Dr. Ehlers joins the Sugar Land team, which includes medical oncologists Amit Sarma, M.D. and Janet Tu, M.D. and radiation oncologists Isidora Arzu, M.D, Ph.D. and Shalin Shah, M.D. They work closely with each other and their expanded team, all located under one roof, enabling the doctors and support team to communicate regularly and easily about each patient’s care.

Richard A. Ehlers, M.D., FACS, joins the team at the MD Anderson Regional Care Center in Sugar Land.

“We can assist patients with the diagnosis in a timely manner and coordinate with other fellowship trained, boardcertified oncologists all in one practice,” Dr. Ehlers says. “This means that patients can receive fort bend

magazine • November 2010

22

the highest quality of care with the greatest speed of access.”

Dr. Ehlers enjoys being a part of the community. “You have a close connection with your patients. You will end up seeing patients at church and

Patients want an expert, but they also want someone who realizes they are a person, shows them they care, and has fundamental compassionate skills.

Richard A. Ehlers, M.D., FACS Assistant Professor, Surgical Oncology

the grocery store, and get physician referrals from within the community. ” He also believes in a full range of cancer care.

“Patients want an expert, but they also want someone who realizes they are a person, shows them they care, and has fundamental compassionate skills.”

A native Texan, Dr. Ehlers received his undergraduate degree from Rice University, his medical degree from The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston and

performed his surgical oncology fellowship at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. He’s excited to join both the Sugar Land team, as well as the MD Anderson Regional Care Center in Katy.

The MD Anderson Regional Care Center is located on the campus of St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital and offers radiation oncology, outpatient chemotherapy, laboratory and pharmacy in addition to cancer surgery.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 281.566.1800 or visit FindYourMDAnderson.com

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www.fortbend

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23

on

Finance

Provided by RBC Wealth Management and H. H. “Will” Hardee

‘Tis the Season for Spending: Plan Ahead to Avoid Holiday Debt

A

s shoppers get ready to start the annual frenzy over holiday shopping, retailers are strapping in for what is likely to be a bumpy ride. According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), total holiday retail shoppers for Black Friday weekend in 2009 went up by over 20 million people to an estimated 195 million shoppers. However, the average dollar amount spent per person dropped to $343 compared to $373 two years ago.

In tougher economic times, especially for many, the holiday season means spending more than they can afford, leading to a financial holiday hangover come January.

As you make your holiday lists and head to the mall, setting a spending limit should be your first priority. Ask yourself how much you can afford to spend without going into debt. Going to the store without a budget in mind can be costly – especially with most Americans carrying five or six credit cards.

Making a list of the people you want to buy for is also helpful. Include everyone you are shopping for – even those who will receive small gifts such as teachers or newspaper deliverers. The small gifts tend to be the ones you have not budgeted for and can really add up. Money spent on

Christmas cards, holiday parties or other holiday-related items and events also should be included on this list.

After you’ve made your list, decide how much you will spend on each person or item. You’ll want to add everything up and make sure you are not above your overall spending limit. In addition, it may help to decide what you will buy each person and where you might find these gifts.

Thinking this through ahead of time will allow you to comparison shop and look for sales featuring these items.

Another option is to shop on-line. You will be able to avoid the lines as well as the last minute “impulse” buying that can break the budget. In addition, you will not spend any money on gas. E-retailers are now offering special online deals and free shipping.

If you plan on using credit, other considerations apply as well. Remember – it’s usually easier to spend more when using a credit card, so sticking to your budget can be more challenging. When planning your budget, it helps to keep in mind how much you would pay if you were only going to use cash.

Additionally, you should make plans to pay off your card in full when the bill arrives. If you know this is not possible,

you may want to reconsider your budget, or at least make sure you are using a credit card that is going to allow you a few months with no interest on the purchases. Also, be sure to keep your receipts and compare them with your monthly bill, and promptly report your problems to the credit card issuer.

After the holidays are over, January can be a good time to implement your spending strategy for next year. As part of your New Year’s resolution, consider creating a holiday gift fund to help save small amounts of money throughout the year.

Putting a little money aside each month can really help when it’s time to start drafting the holiday gift list all over again.

For more information on Will Hardee and the Hardee Investment Group, call 713-853-0869, click HardeeInvestmentGroup.com or listen live every Thursday from 11 – noon on CBS Talk 650 AM Radio!

This article is provided by H. H. “Will” Hardee, a financial consultant at RBC Wealth Management’s Houston Center office 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. H

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Sugar Land Vein Specialists The practice is dedicated exclusively to the treatment of venous insufficiency that can cause painful visible varicose veins, leg swelling and even venous stasis ulcers. We are the vein clinic of choice in Fort Bend County. We dedicate 30 to 45 minutes during the first visit, which includes a detailed interview, physical examination and an ultrasound. Our goal is to make every patient feel comfortable and safe, allowing plenty of time for questions.

When compared to large practices with multiple physicians, there is no need to reintroduce yourself to the doctor on call as you will always be taken care of by the same physician.

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A few weeks later I had my procedure. Literally, I was in and out of the office in an hour. The procedure recovery was absolutely a breeze. I was in no pain or discomfort at all during or after the procedure. I was so excited about the results that I have scheduled to have my other leg done. Dr. Baltazar certainly has this down and my 48 year-old legs, aside from some toning issues, look 16 again! I am so happy and excited! All I can say is, Thank you Dr. Baltazar!”

A.T. Sugar Land, TX www.fortbend

.com • November 2010

25

on

Health

By Dr. Peter Osborne

Breast Cancer Prevention

W

ith more than 200,000 cases diagnosed per year, breast cancer rates in the U.S are one of the highest in the world. One in every eight U.S. women will develop this cancer, and 44,000 women die each year. Last month, I discussed the supine position of the National Cancer Institute and the American Cancer Society on prevention of breast cancer. In this article, I would like to educate you on actions you can take to help prevent this deadly disease.

There are two major areas a woman can have evaluated in order to reduce the risk of breast cancer. These are listed below.

1. Environment 2. Genetics Environment: Multiple factors in the environment can contribute to breast cancer. Major modifiable contributors include: 1. Chronic stress 2. Lack of exercise coupled with sedentary lifestyle 3. Air and water pollution 4. Chemicals added to food.

5. Chemical byproducts used to package or store food 6. Medication use 7. Poor nutrition - to include vitamin, mineral and other nutrient deficiencies, as well as foods that provide calories without nutrients Chronic stress has been shown to bring about chemical changes in the body that have the ability to turn on cancer promoting genes. Lower levels of stress and fatigue have been shown to improve the survival rates of women diagnosed with breast cancer. Excessive chronic stress is all too common in today’s fast paced society. Doctors

have the ability to measure stress hormones like cortisol, epinephrine, norepinephrine, & more to help assess the severity of the problem but just as importantly to monitor treatment approaches. There are a number of tools that can be used to help better cope with stress. Physically- yoga, massage, pilates, resistance training, and tai chi are a few suggestions. Mentally- prayer, meditation, & maintaining positive, nurturing relationships are important. Plentiful sleep, nourishing food, & adequate sunshine exposure are vital for re-establishing a normal stress response.

Lack of exercise coupled with jobs that do not require much in the way of physical activity also contribute to breast cancer risk.

A number of medical studies have found that regular exercise can reduce the risk of breast cancer by as much as 80%. The keys to a successful exercise program are consistency over time. I personally use a 10 minute rule. This means that no matter what day it is, or how much of a hurry I am in, I always perform weight bearing exercise for at least 10 minutes. If I have more time, I do more. Push-ups, pull-ups, squats, and lunges can be done a variety of ways in very little time, with very little equipment in the comfort of your home. Emphasis is placed on weight bearing exercise over cardiovascular exercise because it has a greater long term benefit in reducing cancer risk. Contrary to popular belief, taking the stairs instead of using the elevator or parking further from the store is not exercise. Don’t deny your body the physical attention it deserves.

There is no health enhancing substitute for adequate exercise.

Air and water pollution and chemicals

commonly added to foods (i.e. pesticides, herbicides, etc.) are known carcinogens (cancer causing agents). A quality HEPA air filter combined with a low level ozone generator can help reduce a number of these pollutants in your air. To avoid ingestion of food based chemicals, the best advice is to avoid packaged and processed food items. Avoid eating and drinking from styrofoam or plastic containers. Use glassware as an alternative.

Purchase a whole house water filter system to avoid getting exposure to these chemicals in your drinking and bathing water (www. chemicalfreewater.net).

Diet and proper nutrition plays one of the largest environmental roles in the risk for the development of all cancers. Statistics with the CDC have shown that the incidence of cancer has continued to increase over the last 100 years despite medicines best efforts.

This trend coincides with the radical food processing technologies developed in this century. Diets with consistent consumption of refined processed foods are a major cancer inducer. Dietary staple foods should consist of brightly colored organic fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, and healthy grass fed lean meats and.

Summary: Play your part in breast cancer prevention. Stay informed. If you know that you are at risk, have your doctor run preventative labs to measure your hormones and nutrient levels. Supplement your diet and lifestyle appropriately. If you don’t know your risk, have genetic testing performed along with preventative labs. Accommodate your lifestyle to your genes. Don’t be an innocent bystander turned victim. The solution to breast cancer is pro-active intelligent prevention. H

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High School HOT SHOT

By Melinda Wood

Kickin’ it up a Notch

S

he swims. She spikes. She uses fancy footwork. Truth be told, there isn’t much that star athlete and honor student Kasey Surratt doesn’t do.

As a senior this year, Kasey runs cross country and plays on the volleyball and soccer teams at Lamar Consolidated High School. In the summer, she swims and serves as assistant coach for the Greatwood Geysers.

Though she loves playing all sports, she admits that soccer holds a special place in her heart. “I’ve done soccer since I was little,” Kasey says. “I started out at the YMCA and then played competitively. When I first started, I was always on teams with my friends. That’s what really got me into it. When I moved on to a competitive team it was fun because we traveled all over and we were really good!”

She continues, “When I got to high school, I had to adjust a bit. It’s a completely different season; it’s in the winter. But now, the adrenaline gets me and I don’t even realize how cold it is.”

A four-year varsity letterman in soccer, Kasey is serving as team captain this year and is excited about soccer starting up after Thanksgiving. “I’m looking forward to soccer this year. Knowing that I’m a senior and captain on the team and getting to lead everyone,” Kasey shares.

In addition, Kasey and her team-

Kasey

mates led the Lady Mustang volleyball team to the playoffs this year. She also enjoys coaching the Geysers during the summer.

“I love coaching the swim team,” she says. “Seeing all the little kids and watching them grow throughout the season is really fun. I’ll go visit my little brother at his school and see some of the kids from the team. It’s really cool how excited they get when they see me.”

However, Kasey is more than a gifted athlete; she’s also an honor student. In fact, her proudest high school moment wasn’t won on the field but in the classroom.

“I’m most proud of being accepted into National Honor Society,” she says. “It felt really great because there are a lot of smart students at our school. Knowing

that I was in the top ten percent to make it in was pretty cool.”

She also spends time volunteering at Hutchison Elementary School through the Peer Assistance and Leadership program, PALS. “In PALS, we go to the elementary schools twice a week,” Kasey says.

“We go around and help kids with their work. Sometimes we’ll read to them. It’s cool because we give them someone else to talk to about their schoolwork and anything else that might be bothering them.”

Between playing three sports and keeping up her grades, Kasey has a lot to juggle and does her best to stay organized. “After practice, I go home and that’s when I have my family time,” she explains. “After dinner, I’ll do my homework. On the weekends, I normally have a game on Friday night. On Saturday is when I hang out with friends and family. Sunday is my homework day.”

She spends her free time shopping and love to cook. “I actually love to cook spaghetti and meatballs from scratch. My family requests it all the time,” she shares. Kasey has a great relationship with her family and looks up to her mother as her inspiration.

“I look up to my mom,” Kasey starts.

“When she had kids, she quit working, but now that we’re old enough, she’s gone back to work. I know it’s a lot for her to balance, but she’s always makes it to all of our games. It means a lot to me because I know she does have a lot of stress on her.”

Kasey hopes to attend Texas A&M University next fall and major in business and accounting. H

“I’m looking forward to soccer this year. Knowing that I’m a senior and captain on the team and getting to lead everyone,” Kasey shares. fort bend

magazine • November 2010

28

TEXAS OCULOPLASTIC & PLASTIC SURGEONS, PA PLASTIC SURGERY

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houstoncommunitybank.com

Coming This December

Fort Bend’s 12 Days of Christmas 1

st

One of the best parts about the holidays in Fort Bend County is the guarantee that if you want to frolic in the snow, there is a 100 percent chance of snowfall at both Missouri City’s Snowfest and Sugar Land Town Square’s Tree Lighting. If you’d rather stay indoors, there are ballets, choirs, tours and shopping sure to make your holidays bright. Follow Fort Bend Focus through the 12 days of Christmas at local festivals and events and put the “wonderful” into the holiday season for both you and your family.

Day

Christmas Tree Lighting December 2, Thursday

5

th

Day

Miracle on Morton Street December 4, Saturday

9

th

Day

The Nutcracker December 10, Friday

2

nd

Day

3

Candle Light Tours December 3, Friday

6

th

Day

FBSO’s “Deck the Halls” December 5, Sunday

10

th

Day

Christmas Memories in the Park December 10, Friday

rd

Day

Christmas in Rosenberg December 4, Saturday

7

th

Day

CASA Christmas Home Tour December 10, Friday

11

th

Day

Missouri City Snowfest December 11, Saturday

4

th

Day

Princess Christmas December 4, Saturday

8

th

Day

Campfire Christmas December 10, Friday

12

th

Day

FBBC Christmas Musicale December 11, Saturday

Look for further information including complete dates and times in our December issue. fort bend

magazine • November 2010

30

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Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital

Caring for the Community De-stress with chair massages and laughter

J

ust in time for the holiday season, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital will host a special Girls’ Night Out on Tuesday, Nov. 30 to pamper the ladies of Fort Bend County.

Stress will melt away beginning at 6 p.m. with chair massages from the Memorial Hermann Wellness Center, hors d’oeuvres and refreshments and other enjoyable offerings from local businesses.

At 6:30 p.m., get ready to laugh and be inspired as author Linda Gayle Thompson shares from her latest release now available at Amazon.com, Hookers, Midgets, and Fire Linda Gayle Trucks – An Invitation Thompson to Our Party.

Acknowledging that her book title is politically incorrect, she said, “The words in this title, though possibly offensive to some, are exceptionally near and dear to my heart. They are written with love, humor and a bizarre wackiness, which will unfold in the pages of my life.”

While Thompson wants to save the origin of the book title for her Girls’ Night Out presentation, she says it is analogous Advertorial

to life and how we never know who or what is going to show up to the party, our life. By sharing the challenges she has faced, Thompson wants to encourage others.

“I hope to inspire; I hope to make folks laugh,” said the self-proclaimed country girl. “No matter how tough their journey, this book and this presentation will give them hope.”

Thompson’s memoir chronicles her life growing up in east Texas. As an insecure child she didn’t realize her strength until she married Mike, a quadriplegic, and became his sole caregiver. Adjectives

abound as she talks of him as her hero, teacher and best friend and how “this incredible man” made her a better person.

With gentle, southern charm, Thompson expresses her boundless gratitude for the journey she shared with Mike before his untimely death in 2004. It is Mike’s playful spirit, his belief in her and his passion for life that she eagerly imparts.

Describing the wacky life they lived with their four children, Thompson laughingly tells how Mike made them bungee-cord him, in his wheelchair, to the mast of a sailboat so he could accompany them on a snorkeling trip in Cozumel.

“Mike didn’t let anything stop him,” says Thompson as she effortlessly infuses “sweetie” and “hun” into the conversation. “He saw life with such enthusiasm and promise.”

Other crazy stories that showcase Thompson’s ability to blend sarcastic and zany real-life humor with a passion to motivate others from her lessons learned involve dead pigs in bathtubs, a topless donut shop and giant chicken suits.

Come experience Thompson’s infectious humor, wit and honest connection with people at this special Girls’ Night Out. Following the presentation, she will be available for book signings. As always, Girls’ Night Out is a free event, but registration is required and can be made by calling 713.222.CARE (2273). H

A night of pampering • Featuring author Linda Gayle Thompson sharing from her latest release, Hookers, Midgets, and Fire Trucks – An Invitation to Our Party • Chair massages • Other offerings from local businesses Tuesday, November 30 Memorial Hermann 6 – 8 p.m.

Sugar Land Hospital Free event, but registration required.

17500 W. Grand Parkway South Please call 713.222.CARE (2273). at U.S. Highway 59 fort bend

magazine • November 2010

32

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Fort Bend Friends and Neighbors 30th Anniversary Celebration

Luncheon and Cookbook Debut Thursday, September 16 • Safari Texas Ranch

Nancy Frank & Celia Olson

Adele Booth, Joann Eck & Nancy Wood

Gail Grace, Sandra Boyd & Nancy Frank

Pam Fryer, Toni Lane, Michelle Broussard, Pilar Tafares, Brenda Stevenson & Arlene Rivenes

Sue Horsnell & Nelly Abdo

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35

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on the

Scene

Go to www.FortBendFocus.com Pictures are available online for this month only, download now. Compliments of Fort Bend FOCUS.

The Grand Soiree Event ~ Escape To Treasure Island

Couture For The Cause Benefiting The American Cancer Society Saturday, September 25 • Resort Lagoon, Sienna Plantation

Gay & Jim Thompson

Dennis & Joy Dowell

Eric & Lin Humble

Keri Schmidt, Becky & Jim Munnel

Jay & Maggie Horgan

Rakel Campbell, Sara & Susie Orsok

KK & Scott West

Carrie Colbert & Brendan Lyons

Jim Settles & Martcella Arroyo

Susie & Doug Goff

Bo Sommer & Shannon Orsak

John & Nancy Benevides

Cynthia Von Tesmar, Chrissy Nolan, Kelly McPherson & Micah Morrison

David & Christen Johnson

Nicole & Cameron Hill

Debbie & Marvin Marcell

Tom & Jackie Wilcox

Fran Knueppel, Peaches & Captain Bob

Neptune & Ursula - Greg Ruhe & Rebecca Bivens

Fort Bend’s CustomBegins Jeweler Where Forever 14015 Southwest Freeway at Sugar Creek

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Harry Bailey & Courtney Gillmore

www.jloggins.com HOURS: TUES-FRI. 10-6 • SAT. 10-3

Lisa Fredrickson, Karen Mawyer & Patti-Parish Kaminski

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37

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on the

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Go to www.FortBendFocus.com Pictures are available online for this month only, download now. Compliments of Fort Bend FOCUS.

The Grand Soiree Events Neiman Marcus in Riverstone with Chalk Artist Tracy Lee Stum

Fall Design Market Houston Design Center

Friday, October 8 • Riverstone

Wednesday, October 13 • Houston

Stacy & Robert Swift

Larry Wong, Paula Moss & Rocky Lai

Lynne Jones & Sheri Roane

Zooks Campbell & Barbara Von Vliet

Jaime Virkus & Carolyn Williams

Vianne De Young, Ofe Mendez & Mike Young

Johnnie Wright, Rebecca Howard & Carolyn Williams

Cathy Koehl & Hilde Panasuk

Trey & Heather Reichert

Himesh & Farrah Gandhi

Stephanie Hilburn, Joyce Page-Williams & Nancy Tebbetts

Deborah Montz & Gentre Bradford

Chuck & Becky Peterson, Debbie & Gary Bradbury

David & Christen Johnson

Jenn Osborn & Anita Nunez

Linda Bell & Sherry Dansby

Beth Butler, Melanie Slagle & Mitzi Euel

Betty Clark & Judy May

Brooke Livingston & Melissa Hayslip

KK West, Christen Johnson & Jessica Kij

Holiday

cheer in the

Square

YIP Food drIve

Saturday, November 13 • 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Sponsored by C.H. Robinson Worldwide Fort Bend County’s Youth in Philanthropy high school students will build structures out of canned goods in the Plaza with all food benefiting local food pantries. Bring non-perishable food items to support the efforts of a county-wide food drive and enjoy live music.

ImPerIal PerFormIng arts PrevIew oF Hansel & gretel Friday, November 19 • 7 - 8 p.m.

Start your evening with a performance by Victorian Carolers and enjoy a preview of Hansel & Gretel by Imperial Performing Arts. For more information, visit ImperialPerformingArts.org.

PHotos wItH santa

Every Sunday, November 28 - December 19 • 1 - 5 p.m.

Sponsored by University of Phoenix.

Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus at Town Square for your holiday photo opportunity. Located in the lobby of 16190 City Walk.

CItY oF sugar land’s 8tH annual tree lIgHtIng Thursday, December 2 • 5 - 8 p.m.

Join us for holiday themed activities for the whole family in Town Square.

ClassiC Holiday Movie NigHts • 7 - 9 p.M.

Saturday, December 4 - It’s a Wonderful Life Saturday, December 11 - Vote online at SugarLandTownSquare.com Saturday, December 18 - Elf

CItY oF sugar land’s new Years eve Friday, December 31 • 7 p.m. - 1 a.m.

The City of Sugar Land will once again mesmerize the crowd by ringing in the New Year at Town Square.

Children’s Celebration 7 - 9 p.m. • Adult Celebration 9:30 p.m. - 1 a.m.

For more information, visit SugarLandTX.gov or call 281-275-2885.

new Year’s daY ConCert wItH moodaFaruka Saturday, January 1, 2011 • 7 - 9 p.m.

Continue your New Year’s celebration in Town Square enjoying the music of Moodafaruka, a mixture of Flamenco, Middle Eastern, Spanish and Western sounds.

For more information, visit sugarlandtownsquare.com

FORT BEND

HEADLINERS Send your “Fort Bend Headliners” via e-mail to Lisa@FortBendFocus.com. Be sure to send only “high resolution” digital pictures as an “attached” jpg. Make sure your camera is set to “fine” or “high” in the setup screen. Digital pictures that have not been previously published are preferred. Please do not embed jpg in any page or layout program.

Articles are subject for editing and space availability.

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25 years experience in Texas fort bend

magazine • November 2010

Sugar Land Councilwoman Jacqueline Baly Chaumette has been named an ABC/13 Woman of Distinction for the 2011 Winter Ball, benefiting the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) Houston Gulf Coast / South Texas Chapter.

An ABC/13 News photographer and a contingent of friends staged a surprise announcement at the University of Houston, where Councilmember Chaumette serves as an adjunct professor. The Winter Ball, in its 24th year, is one of the premier social events in Houston, and the largest fundraiser for the CCFA Houston Gulf Coast / South Texas Chapter. Major sponsors include ABC/13, Saks Fifth Avenue and Emirates Airlines, along with CenterPoint Energy, Gittings, Locke Lord Bissell & Liddell, LLP, Momentum Jaguar, Northern Trust, and Tiffany & Co. The Winter Ball, chaired by Jan Carson and Virginia Reisman, with Honorary Chair Mary Ann McKeithan, will be held on Saturday, January 22, 2011 at the Hilton-Americas Hotel Houston. All proceeds benefit critical research programs funded

by CCFA to find a cure for debilitating digestive diseases. Celebrity guest Rolf Benirschke, former San Diego Charger’s place-kicker and ulcerative colitis patient, is spokesman for CCFA’s Great Comeback Awards Program.

Tickets for the 2011 Winter Ball start at $500 and tables are available starting at $5000 up to $50,000. For more info, visit: www.WinterBall2011.com, email: WinterBall@ccfa.org, or call 713.572.2232.

Headliners continued on page 42

40

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Family Medicine Group 16605 Southwest Freeway, Suite 400 • Sugar Land, TX 77479 Medical Office Building Three 281-275-0800 • MethodistFMG.com

www.fortbend

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Headliners continued from page 40

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fort bend

magazine • November 2010

42

Fall is here and so is one of the season’s traditions in Fort Bend - The Best in the West dinner, dance and auction benefiting ARC! The ARC of Fort Bend and returning key underwriter Prosperity Bank, joined by fellow underwriters Aliana, Sprint Landfill and Sugar Land Rotary, invite you to the 32nd annual Best in the West dinner, dance and auction benefiting persons in our county with mental retardation and developmental disorders. Proceeds enable ARC to provide unique opportunities and services to these special citizens. Festivities will begin at 6 pm on Saturday, November 20th at the George Ranch Historical Park.

Causing much excitement this year is a raffle with a very special grand prize: a restored 1966 302 V8 red and black Mustang donated by KR Mustang and Kevin Casey. Only 500 raffle tickets are being sold, and tickets are $100 each.

The Swinging Door will serve a delicious bar-b-que dinner, and entertainment will be provided by The Triumphs.

Many silent auction corrals hosted by area companies and organizations will offer opportunities for early holiday shopping while the legendary live auction promises fabulous travel, hunting, fishing, sports and rodeo packages.

Tickets are $50 each and reserved tables of ten are $500. Tickets and tables can be purchased by contacting Theresa Bathe (281-879-1158) or Ann Smith (281-240-1313). H

American Red Cross Super Ball X Signs Up Sponsors for Anniversary Event of Food, Football and Fun!

Leading the team to victory are Head Coaches Carol Whileyman, Cindy Reaves and May W. Tape, DDS along with Head Coach Elect Goldie Leinweber and sponsor Chip Sutton of Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP.

The American Red Cross Super Ball X scheduled for Saturday, January 22nd at Safari Texas in Richmond, promises to be the biggest – and best – indoor tailgate party in town! Celebrating their tenth anniversary, Super Ball X benefits the American Red Cross Southwestern Branch.

Sponsorships are currently available for the tenth anniversary event, and they range from $1,000 to $10,000. Sponsorship opportunities include tickets to the event, recognition in the program and invitations, and on-site recognition at the event.

The event features a tailgate-themed buffet, a Half-Time Dance with music

by The Spiffington’s and a midway. The American Red Cross Super Ball X’s auctions are always a crowd-pleaser, and this year’s live auction features an exclusive item courtesy of Super Ball X’s Honorary Chairmen Ron and Juliana Ewer owners of Legacy Ford. The Ewers have donated a new car each month for an entire year to kick off the live auction.

“The American Red Cross provides such a vital service to our community,” said Ron Ewer, owner of Legacy Ford and Super Ball X Honorary Chairman. “We are delighted to be a part of this annual event benefiting an organization that does so much for our community. The American Red Cross is there for everyone not only in times of crisis, but every day as they help prepare our community for the future.”

Tickets to Super Ball X are $75 per person or $130 per couple and are available by contacting the American Red Cross at 281.342.9480. Underwriting opportunities can be found at www. houstonredcross.org/super-ball. For more information, call 281.342.9480 or visit www.houstonredcross.org/super-ball.

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Headliners continued from page 43

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magazine • November 2010

44

Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation “Taking the Stage!” Gala Offers Live and Silent Auctions A live and silent auction will be one of the highlights of the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation’s 2011 Founder’s Ball gala, set for Saturday, January 15, 2011 at Safari Texas Ranch.

The 2011 gala will continue the tradition of having community leaders sponsor live auction packages and an early list of this year’s donors include packages put together by Marilyn Glover and Jan Meyer.

The live auction is being co-chaired by SLCAF board member Donna Molho and Jeff Tallas. The silent auction co-chairs, Nancy Frank and Celia Olson, are assembling a 50 item silent auction that will be top quality merchandise and services.

“The goal of this year’s gala is to raise the funds to bring first class performances to Lakeview Auditorium, where they will be ‘Taking the Stage!’ following the completion of the current renovations”, says Bridget Yeung, SLCAF board vice president.

The auditorium is currently under construction including a 900-square foot backstage addition, creating ample space for future Lakeview Auditorium performers. The new section includes dressing rooms, restrooms, a green room, storage rooms, a loading dock and handicap access to the stage. In addition, the exterior is being renovated as well as the rooftop balustrade being restored, which will return the building to its original state.

The gala is the Foundation’s most important annual fund-raising event. Sponsorships are currently available. Sugar Land Mayor, James Thompson and SLCAF board member, Bridget Yeung are Sponsorship Co-chairs. Tickets are also available for $100 each, or $1000 for a reserved table of 10. For tickets contact Donna Hine at 281-898-4518 or donna@ slcaf.org. Visit www.slcaf.org for further information.

FBJSL Extends Deadline for Event Beneficiary Applicants The Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) has extended the deadline for charitable organizations interested in applying to become a 2011 – 2012 FBJSL event beneficiary. Event Beneficiary applications must be received by the FBJSL Beneficiary Review Committee on or before January 7, 2011. The Event Beneficiary application and accompanying instructions can be found on FBJSL’s website, www.fbjsl.com.

To be eligible for consideration, applicants must have 501(c)(3) status and provide services within Fort Bend County.

FBJSL selects beneficiaries that demonstrate a history of support within their own organizations, match the League’s vision for Fort Bend County and encompass one or more of the League’s position statements.

Event Beneficiaries for the 2009-2010 League year included: Child Advocates of Fort Bend, East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry, Fort Bend Community Partners Rainbow Room, Fort Bend County Women’s Center, Fort Bend Lawyers Care, Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels and Literacy Council of Fort Bend County.

FBJSL is an organization of women

committed to promoting volunteerism, to developing the potential of women and to improving the Fort Bend County community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Their purpose is exclusively educational and charitable as well as providing an atmosphere of friendliness, goodwill and camaraderie for all members. To learn more about FBJSL, please visit www.fbjsl.com.

Headliners continued on page 46

FBJSL held a Food Drive benefiting East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry at its September general meeting. EFBHNM was a beneficiary of the 2010 Pancakes & Pajamas event. Pictured are Pam Spencer, Sarah Boyd, Connie Esposito and Cyndi Cook.

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Gift Certificates may be purchased in store or online.

Franchises Available

Headliners continued from page 45

Elissa R. Wedemeyer O.D., FCOVD, FAAO

Therapeutic/Optometric Glaucoma Specialist Board Certified in Vision Therapy Reading/Visual Skills Program For the past 21 years, Dr. Wedemeyer has been dedicated to providing the best possible care to every patient, and places a strong emphasis on individual attention and quality time to meet patient needs.

L-R: Sunday Coffman, Debbie MacDonald, Colleen Flint, Patty Ward, Cheryl Suter, Jill Curtis, Kathy DeWitt, Mary Rey, Denise Allen Zwicker, Karen Nemesi, Elvis Presley, Cindy Gazouleas, Angela Mason, Sonja White, Barbara Adcock and Gail McClendon.

Support Fort Bend Youth by Attending ‘Road Trip to Las Vegas’ February 12

• Medical Management of Eye Diseases • Children’s Visual Perceptual Testing and Therapy • Co-Management of Laser Surgery • Contact Lenses • Complete Line of Fashion & Professional Frames • SPORTS WEAR: Swimming Goggles, Sunglasses & High Tech Sports Glasses

281-499-2600

6026 Hwy. 6 • Missouri City, TX 77459 • www.drwedemeyer.com

The public is invited to Road Trip to Las Vegas, the Ultimate Lounge Experience, Saturday, February 12, at Fluor, One Fluor Daniel Drive, in Sugar Land.

Fluor’s large cafeteria will be transformed for the evening into a Las Vegas-style lounge, with sumptuous food, dancing and both silent and live auctions.

Fort Bend Cares, a charitable foundation, will host the party. Its proceeds fund grants to organizations that serve disadvantaged Fort Bend youth. Sponsors are welcome at all levels. To date, sponsors for the February 12 party include Richmond Bone and Joint; Lifechek Drugs; Rice and Gardner Consultants; Gregg Engineering; Grant Thornton, LLP; and Fluor. Individual tickets cost $75.

The dress for the evening is “jeans and jewels.” The party will feature a variety of foods donated by area restaurants. Master of ceremonies Rowdy Yates will keep the crowd lively. An Elvis impersonator and disc jockey will spin the platters for an evening of dancing and singing along to old and new favorites. Partygoers will likewise have a chance to spin the roulette wheel for a chance to donate to their favorite charity.

Fort Bend Cares, a charitable foundation, supports organizations and programs that serve disadvantaged children and youth in Fort Bend County.

For more information and to become a sponsor, call 832-392-1983 or visit www.

FortBendCares.org.

Headliners continued on page 50 fort bend

magazine • November 2010

46

South Texas Medical Clinics Board Certified OB/Gyn Team

Jeffery Gubbels, M.D. • Karyn Cumberbatch, M.D. • Greg Keffer, M.D. • Marc Sangalli, M.D.

October 28 through November 7, 2010 shop. save money. save lives.

STMC’s OB/Gyn team is now closer to your home!

We’re ready to keep you healthy or work with you to solve your health issues.

Appointments now available in the Rosenberg Clinic for all women’s services: Pregnancy Well-Women Visits Women’s Health Problems Speciality Care for Women of all ages

2520 B.F. Terry Blvd. (FM 2218) Rosenberg 77471

281-342-6006

The Holiday Shopping Card is your opportunity to both give and receive this holiday season. When you purchase the Holiday Shopping card for a minimum donation of $70, you can use your card to receive a 20% discount at more than 700 of the finest stores in Houston and the surrounding areas from October 28 through November 7, 2010.

TO ORDER YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING CARD: call 713.266.2205, visit holidayshoppingcard.com, or visit one of our participating merchants.

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The right place to find that perfect item.

Enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee and a “puzzle cookie” while you shop.

Once Again 801 3rd Street Rosenberg • 281-232-3955 www.shoponceagain.com

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Community Calendar

November 2010 6th SATURDAY, 1 PM FREE-MOVIE SATURDAY Held at George Memorial Library, located at 1001 Golfview in Richmond.

Enjoy a 1986 action-packed film starring Tom Cruise as Maverick, a Navy pilot at Miramar Naval Air Station’s advanced fighter-pilot school.

For more info, call 281-341-2677.

On Saturday, November 13, support Fort Bend Cares by participating in the Republic Harley Davidson Motorcycle Ride.

2nd TUESDAY, 6:30 PM LEARN EARLY SIGNS OF ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE Learn about the early signs of Alzheimer’s at Fort Bend County Libraries’ Sienna Branch Library at 8411 Sienna Springs Blvd. The program will be repeated on November 13, beginning at 2:00 pm, at the Sugar Land Library, located at 550 Eldridge Road. For info, call 281-341-2677.

4th THURSDAY, 10 AM - 4 PM SUGAR CREEK WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION “HOLIDAY TREASURES BOUTIQUE” Enjoy this spectacular annual boutique, “Holiday Treasures” at the Sugar Creek Country Club, 420 Country Club Blvd. More than 40 vendors will provide a vast variety of items for holiday shoppers. Entry is $5. For info, call 281-494-9131.

4th THURSDAY, 6 PM FREE MILITARY MOVIE SHOWING In recognition and celebration of Veterans Day, the Sienna Branch Library will show an award-winning military drama. Call 281-238-2900.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Events, schedules and information may change without notice.

Please refer to the event’s contact person or check the event’s website for more information.

6th SATURDAY, 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM GREATER HOUSTON ADOPTION/ ORPHAN CONFERENCE Sugar Creek Baptist Church will be hosting an informational conference to help people learn more about adoption, foster care, and the global orphan crisis. For info, visit www.sugarcreek.net/adoption or e-mail abbasheartscbc@gmail.com.

6th SATURDAY, 9 AM 7TH ANNUAL WALK IN CONCERT WITH THE FORT BEND BOYS CHOIR Held at Oyster Creek Park in Sugar Land, participants will complete a 3-mile walk and receive a walka-thon t-shirt. Proceeds will help fund the FB Boys Choir’s programs and scholarships. To pledge or participate, call 281-240-3800.

6th SATURDAY, 10 AM - 3 PM 5TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL Entertainment will be provided by schools and various local programs.

Area restaurants will provide a sampling of international cuisine.

Visit www.fortbend.k12.tx.us/ foundation/Festival.cfm. fort bend

magazine • November 2010

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8th, 22nd MONDAYS, 6:30 PM FALL FAMILY MOVIE NIGHTS Sienna Branch Library will feature a free Fall Family Movie Series located at 8411 Sienna Springs Blvd. The first movie is about an undercover CIA superspy who decides to give up his career in espionage to settle down. On November 22, the series continues with an animated film about a lazy, irreverent slacker panda whose dreams of being a Kung Fu fighter.

Both movies are rated PG. For info, call 281-238-2900.

8th MONDAY, 6:45 PM LEARN HOW TO COMMUNICATE WITH SOMEONE WITH ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE In recognition of National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month in November, Albert George Branch Library in Needville will present “Reconnect: Communicating with Persons with Dementia,” located at 9230 Gene Street. The program will be repeated on November 9, at 6:00 pm, at the First Colony Branch Library in Sugar Land; and on November 16, at 6:30 pm, at the Sienna Branch Library. For info, call 979-793-4270.

9th TUESDAY, 10 AM LEARN HOW TO USE MILITARY RECORDS FOR TRACING FAMILY HISTORIES Learn how to use military records to trace family history at a special program at George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview in Richmond. Seating is limited and reservations are required.

Register online at the library’s website at www.fortbend.lib.tx.us or call 281-341-2608.

10th WEDNESDAY, 6 PM ICAN CENTER MIX & MINGLE Job-hunters who are interested in networking will have an opportunity to network, exchange ideas and business cards, and to establish relationships that may assist them in their job-hunting. Held at Fort Bend County Libraries’ Missouri City Branch Library, 1530 Texas Parkway.

For info, call 281-499-4100.

11th THURSDAY VETERANS DAY 13th SATURDAY, 8:30 AM REPUBLIC HARLEY DAVIDSON MOTORCYCLE RIDE BENEFITING FORT BEND CARES Registration will open the day of the ride at 8:30am. A $25 donation, plus $10 for passengers is tax deductible.

The ride will travel 45 miles into Fulshear’s new town center. No bike?

No problem! To rent a bike from Republic Harley Davidson, call 281295-1000. For info call 832-392-1983 or e-mail info@fortbendcares.org.

13th SATURDAY, 9 AM - 4 PM 21ST ANNUAL HEARTWARMING CRAFT SHOW Held at Holy Covenant United Methodist Church, 22111 Morton Rd. in Katy. Over 68 artisans featuring a variety of handmade items. Sandwich Shoppe and Tea Room with homemade baked items. Silent Auction Baskets.

Proceeds support local missions.

Call 281-579-1200, ext. 329 or visit www.holycov.org 13th SATURDAY, 10 AM - 12 NOON AUTISM PLAY GROUP For children with Autism ages 1-12yrs & their families. Meetings are at Lost Creek Park, 3703 Lost Creek Boulevard in Sugar Land. Drinks, snacks and door prizes are provided.

Cost is FREE but donations are appreciated. RSVP is required. For info, e-mail susan@susangar.com or call 281-726-2665.

13th SATURDAY, 10 AM - 4:30 PM FROST’S HOLIDAY MARKET Get an early start on your holiday shopping! Enjoy a fun filled day of entertainment, food, raffles and over 75 vendors for your shopping pleasure.

Frost Elementary School, 3306 Skinner Ln. in Richmond.

13th SATURDAY, 11 AM - 1 PM GLUTEN FREE FOR THE HOLIDAYS Join the quarterly Gluten Free/ Grain Free meeting at the Sugar Land Branch Library, 550 Eldridge in Sugar Land. No entry fee however participants are required to bring a grain free dish including the recipes.

Call 281-240-2229 to RSVP. Visit glutenfreesociety.org for info.

13th SATURDAY, 7:30 PM TAYLOR SEARS CHAMPION THE CURE BENEFITING CYSTIC FIBROSIS Held at Mercedes-Benz of Sugar Land, this event will include complimentary valet parking, live music, cocktails, food tastings from local restaurants as well as donated items to be auctioned off. Call 713-621-0006 or visit www.txgulf.cff.org/ TaylorSearsChampion.

14th SUNDAY, 2 PM FORT BEND BOYS CHOIR TO PERFORM AT GEORGE MEMORIAL LIBRARY Enjoy a performance by the Town Choir of the Fort Bend Boys Choir of Texas at George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview in Richmond.

Refreshments will be served. For info, call 281-341-2677.

18th THURSDAY, 10 AM BEGINNERS DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY Held at George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview in Richmond, enjoy a hands-on introduction to basic skills using computer programs. Seating is limited and reservations are required.

For info, call 281-341-2604. www.fortbend

.com • November 2010

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21st SUNDAY, 8 AM BIKE THE BEND FOR LITERACY Ride Bike the Bend benefiting the Literacy Council of Fort Bend and help adults in Fort Bend County learn to read, speak English or earn their GED! Bike the Bend is a BP MS 150 ride starting and finishing at Foster High School, 4400 FM 723, in Richmond. There are 19, 32, or 59 mile routes. Riders will enjoy first rate rest stops stocked with delicious snacks from Whole Foods Market Sugar Land as well as a variety of cold beverages supplied by Minute Maid to fuel the ride. Registration is just $30.

Visit www.ftbendliteracy.org 25th THURSDAY THANKSGIVING DAY

SUGAR LAND TOWN SQUARE EVENTS www.sugarlandtownsquare.com Call 281-313-SLTS Saturday, November 6 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

5th Annual International Festival Friday, November 12 7 – 9 p.m.

Concert performance presented

by The Clements High School Chamber Strings Saturday, November 13 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Youth in Philanthropy Food Drive & Canned Food Sculpting Saturday, November 13 7 – 9 p.m.

Movie under the Moon Friday, November 19 7 – 8 p.m.

Imperial Performing Arts Preview Night Saturday, November 20 7 – 9 p.m.

Concert in the Plaza presented

by Quail Valley Church Sunday, November 28 1 – 5 p.m.

Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus

Headliners continued from page 46

KICK OFF THE HOLIDAY SEASON WITH

Fitzgerald Honored for Exemplary Service to Citizens

BILL AUSTIN’S GYMNASTICS

& Academy of Dance Breakfast With Santa, Mrs. Clause, Nutcracker & Friends Saturday November 27th, 2010 10 am - 12 pm at Bill Austin’s

December 11th 2:30 and 7:30 pm

HBU’s Dunham Theatre

Chief Joel Fitzgerald Photo courtesy of Missouri City

100 Youth Ages 5 through 21 Enchanting music of Tchaikovaky Singing, Acting & Dancing

Breakfast Buffet, Pictures, Sing A Long, Crafts and MORE!

Celebrating 32 Years of Service to Fort Bend!

Registering Now For Winter/Spring Classes • Foam filled training pits • Ages 18 months 18 yrs.

• Moon walk-Air tumble trak • Classes for girls & boys • In-ground trampolines • Moms & tots classes • Fun filled colorful tot gym • Tumbling for cheerleading • Award Winning team programs • Comfortable waiting room • Great Birthday Parties • Safety Certified Welcome Our New Coach!

• Fully air conditioned Lorenzo Martinez Dance & Gymnastics Teachers Needed

30 Years Experience as Gym Owner and Coach

Gymnastics 281.240.0999

REGISTER FOR SPRING BY DEC. 18TH and receive

$40 OFF Tuition

$25 OFF Tuition

for New Students

for Current Students

Under New Direction!

Come Meet

Monroe Moore

Our New Director of Dance

Dance Academy 281.565.5327

16215 LEXINGTON BLVD. (Behind First Colony Mall) • www.billaustinsgymnastics.com

Thomas P. Arnold, OD Melissa C. Moeller, OD and Associates Therapeutic and Pediatric Optometrists 15337 Southwest Frwy.

Sugar Land, TX 77478 Williams Trace @ Hwy 59

281-242-2020

www.2020sugarland.com

Frank Lee, OD Mary Ghoubrial, OD, and Uyen Tran, OD

Therapeutic and Pediatric Optometrists 8817 Hwy 6 Ste 100 Missouri City, TX 77459

Sienna Parkway @ Hwy 6

281-416-2010

www.todaysvision.com

In honor of his exemplary service to the citizens of Missouri City as Chief of Police, Joel Fitzgerald, Sr. has been awarded the 2010 President’s Award from the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People’s Missouri City & Vicinity Branch.

“Chief Fitzgerald is most deserving of the award for his hard work and dedication to reducing the crime rate in our community,” said State Rep. Ron Reynolds.

“He has also been a role model for young African-American men that desire to become police officers. We look forward to continuing to work with Chief Fitzgerald in the near future.”

Since joining the “Show Me City” in April 2009, Fitzgerald has created and implemented many innovative crime-prevention programs, working closely with residents to emphasize a combination of enforcement and education. One of the most proactive measures is the Police Department’s partnership with homeowners’ associations to combat and curtail crime.

Additionally, he has helped the Department earn recognition as one of 18 “Recognized Law Enforcement Agencies” in the State of Texas; a statewide award conveyed by the Texas Police Chiefs Association Foundation Recognition Program.

With his guidance, the department has also launched several technology-driven and community-oriented programs, created a Hotspot/Gang Unit, the Anti-Gang/ Gun/Drug/Violence program for elementary school children, and increased use of highly visible bike patrols. Officers are also utilizing online software to identify patterns and predict crimes.

“We are proud of Joel’s accomplishments,” City Manager Frank Simpson said. “He has an unwavering commitment to our citizens and with his leadership the Police Department continues to provide the superior safety services our residents have come to expect.”

Headliners continued on page 56

fort bend

magazine • November 2010

50

The MOST Complete ORTHOPEDIC CARE for FORT BEND COUNTY Christopher K. Smith, M.D.

Adult & Pediatric Orthopedics

Jeffrey B. Wood, M.D.

Diseases & Deformities of the Spine

Mark W. Maffet, M.D. Sports Medicine

Kenneth M. Renney, M.D. Sports Medicine

Carl A. Hicks, M.D.

Joint Reconstructive Surgery

Timothy C. Sitter, M.D. Sports Medicine

Ray R. Valdez, M.D.

Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas

Foot & Ankle

Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas (MOST) physicians are recognized as some of the finest board-certified physicians in the specialty of orthopedics.

They provide comprehensive, world-class orthopedic care under one roof right here in Fort Bend County — from sports medicine to joint replacement, hand and wrist to ankle and spine care. They perform on a higher level, so you can, too.

Anthony J. Muffoletto, M.D.

Diseases & Deformities of the Spine

Eddie T. Matsu, M.D. Adult Orthopedics

Vincent C. Phan, M.D.

Hand & Upper Extremities

Same day appointments available by calling 281-494-MOST (6678).

1201 Brooks Street • Sugar Land, TX 77478 • 281-494-MOST (6678) • MethodistOST.com

Christmas Wonderland Party

“A Boutique for the Home”

Thursday, November 4

Pre-Kindergarten through 8th Grade

10 am - 2 pm 2 - 8 pm 12 - 2 pm

Open House January 12, 2011 6 pm - 8 pm

’ Mimosas and Pastries ’ Wine and Cheese ’ Trunk Show with Vintage Verse

Featuring: ’ Lynn Haney Santas ’ Mark Roberts Fairies & Nativity Scenes ’ Virgin Saints & Angels Jewelry ’ Sweet Dreams Pillows ’ The GG Collection

Integrity, Honesty and Service to Others Available After School Programs:

Make your appointment today for custom in home Christmas Decorating by the Twenty-Two Fifty Interiors Team.

After School Program available until 6:30 pm.

F: 1.877.402.0210

For More Information Call: 281-208-1403 1717 Dulles Ave., Missouri City, TX 77459

NOW OPEN! 2250 Lone Star Sugar Land Town Square Sugar Land, TX 77479

Homework Assistance • Art • Voice • Guitar Piano • Kid Fit • Math Club • Chess Club

Fax: 281-208-1426

281.265.2250

www.twentytwofiftyinteriors.com

Full Care Available • Mon-Fri • 7 am - 6:30 pm www.fortbend

.com • November 2010

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InternationalPreparatorySchool.com

We invite you to our first

INTERNATIONAL PREPARATORY SCHOOL

FORT BEND

Focus CareS

Apollo, born July 5, 2009

photos: roy kasmir

photo: saraheevansphotography.com

Apollo’s Story

Experience a peaceful country setting like no other at the George Ranch Historical Park. With several historic venues and countless custom package offerings, the possibilities are as wide as the blue Texas sky. www.georgeranch.org/rentals 10215 FM 762 in Richmond (281) 343-0218 • events@georgeranch.org fort bend

magazine • November 2010

52

Hi!

My name is Apollo. I’m a Vizsla and in training to be a volunteer guide dog for a visually impaired person when I grow up. I come from Southeastern Guide Dogs, Inc (SEGDI) in Palmetto, Florida.

I’ve been learning basic commands and going places only a volunteer guide dog in training can go since my puppy raiser got me from the kennels where I was born. She’s a very special person because she came all the way to my home in Florida to get me and bring me back to Texas. I’ll live with her and her family for 14 months.

I must be very smart because I get to go to Puppy College with my friends who are Labrador and Golden Retrievers or short-hair Collies. Yes, they make great volunteer guide dogs too!

I love my puppy raiser; she helps me practice good manners! She takes me to work, to stores, and even to her special restaurants. When I go into a restaurant, I never eat “people food” and prefer to go under the table, lay down by my puppy raiser’s feet and

take a good nap while she eats and talks.

I’m am hoping to find some very special families to be puppy raisers close to my home in Houston or the surrounding areas, especially Sugar Land, so more of my friends can be raised in Texas. I enjoy going places and know it would be really fun if we had more puppies and puppy raisers to go places with us. You have to complete an application, have a background check, attend meetings where you learn to teach special, age appropriate commands and be able to do special things at home so we can grow up to be the best volunteer guide dogs possible. You also must have a home inspection and be approved by Southeastern Guide Dogs before you get a puppy.

Interested?

You can e-mail my puppy raiser at guidepuppy@sbcglobal. net.

Check our website at www. guidedogs.org , SEGDI’s Facebook page or Twitter! For additional volunteer opportunities in Fort Bend County, visit www.VolunteerFortBend.org or call 281-340-1919. H

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F AMILY T RAVELS

Wolf Creek Ski Area Offers Old-Fashioned Charm, Hi-Tech Communication and Snow.... Lots and Lots of Snow....

By Sherry Carter | Photos by Scott DW Smith

W

olf Creek. It’s the kind of name that conjures visions of ancient Native American rituals. But for skiers, it’s a name that’s synonymous with snow. Lots and lots of snow. In fact, the most in Colorado. Skiing lore holds that when no one else has snow, the Wolf Creek Ski Area has snow. With an average annual snowfall of 465 inches, and excellent powder skiing, it seems more than just lore.

Our group traveled to Wolf Creek last March for spring break. We definitely had plenty of snow. It snowed the day before we arrived, and then again on one of our ski days. We took our German foreign exchange student, Katarina, with us and she taught us all the German word “riefe” which is what we call spring snow. You know, the stuff that comes down in soft, small balls instead of flakes. Heavy, wet and great for spring skiing and snowboarding.

Nestled between the towns of Pagosa Springs and South Fork in southern Colorado, the Wolf Creek Ski Area has something for every level of skier. From long, gentle slopes that wind down the side of the mountain for the novice, to the most challenging tree trails for experts.

Wolf Creek is one of those laid-back Colorado ski areas that I thought had all but disappeared. There are several lodges arrayed at the base of the mountain where you can store your shoes and sack lunches in wooden cubbies, or take advantage of lockers for your valuables.

If you don’t want to make your lunch, you can buy a delicious hamburger, fresh off the grill, as well as a variety of other menu choices. And, when the mountain gets to be too much, the lodges offer a comfortable respite to sip a cup of hot chocolate or enjoy a snack. They also provide a great place to meet up with other members of your party to compare notes and tell fish stories.

They provide tissues for your constantly running nose, and the water fountains by the door have courtesy cups to help you stay hydrated. The boot warmer machine was the best quarter I spent on the whole trip.

Seven different lifts serve a variety of trails for skiers and boarders of all ability levels.

There’s a high-speed quad chair that serves at least half the trails on the mountain, including a good cross-section of green (beginner), blue (intermediate) and black (expert) runs.

The Raven lift takes you up to the Raven’s Nest, which is an upper mountain lodge, with many of the same amenities found at the base. And, the beginner’s lift, the Nova chair, also serves the ski school students at the base.

Bowl skiers and boarders can take the Alberta lift for expert runs and tree trails. Two other chair lifts serve intermediate and expert trails at the top of the mountain. Although the first day was rather crowded (it was after all, the first day of spring break), the variety of lifts kept the waiting to a tolerable amount. The other days, we had hardly any waiting at all. fort bend

Beginning skier’s have a variety of options for learning, from private one-on-one lessons to larger groups, and for the little ones, there is the Wolf Pups program. We had two Wolf Pups on our trip, and they learned how to put on their skis and “make a pizza,” which is ski school parlance for the snowplow. They had their own Magic Carpet lift, which is like the moving sidewalk you see at the airport. It just goes uphill.

The Wolf Pups program also includes lunch, snacks and lift tickets. There’s an extra charge for equipment rental.

There are three main airports that serve Southern Colorado: Denver, Albuquerque and Colorado Springs. Santa Fe has also recently resumed service if you don’t mind flying through Dallas-Ft. Worth. There are also local fields for those with private planes at Durango and Alamosa.

The only way to really get to the ski area; however, is via car, although there is a carpool service for those who want to share the ride. There are several levels of parking and a shuttle bus runs from the parking areas right to the front of the mountain base. Additionally, there’s a trail that lets you ski to your car at the end of the day (provided you can carry everything you brought on the last run down).

One morning, a very nice Wolf Creek employee helped us carry our skis from the upper parking lot up the hill to the lodges. And, on another occasion, a woman in the ski rental shop (located in the Sports Center building), carried my skis back to the ski storage area. I’m told that this is typical of the treatment guests receive from the Wolf Creek workers.

That may be because “it’s a family-run ski area, and we’re a family of skiers,” according to Rosanne Haidorfer-Pitcher, vice president of Marketing and Sales. Her father-in-law, Kingsbury Pitcher, now 92, took over the ski area in 1976, and the family has been running it ever since. Rosanne’s husband, Davey Pitcher, is the CEO and various other family members are, or have been, involved in everything from food service to trail maintenance to waste-water treatment. In fact, the third generation has recently begun to move into positions at Wolf Creek.

One of the biggest changes that Rosanne has seen over the years is “the way people communicate with each other and get information.” She adds that they’ve recently upgraded their website to provide even more up-to-the-minute information and cell phone service has vastly improved over the last few years. In fact, I was amazed at how easy it was to communicate with other members of the party via our cell phones.

Other changes this year include remodeling the upper lodge and widening of the Bonanza trail. Of course, they continually do trail work in the off-season. Improvements to the soil mean better conditions during the early part of the season.

So if you’re looking for a good family skiing vacation spot, Wolf Creek offers a laid-back atmosphere that caters to serious skiers and beginners alike. ■ FBF

magazine • November 2010

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Skiable Acres ................................... 1,600 Vertical Drop ............................1,604 feet Base Elevation .......................10,300 feet Summit Elevation ..................11,904 feet Slopes Beginner ...............................20% Intermediate .........................35% Advanced ..............................25% Expert ......................................20% Longest Run ........Navajo Trail - 2 miles Annual Snowfall .. 465 Natural Inches “The Most Snow in Colorado”

Lifts 1 Double, 2 Triple, 1 Quad, 1 Quad Detachable, 1 High Speed Poma Lift 1 Magic Carpet

Location San Juan/Rio Grande National Forest; Highway 160, Wolf Creek Pass;Between Pagosa Springs and South Fork, CO 80 miles east of Durango, CO 65 miles west of Alamosa, CO

Half Day ........................................12:30pm Season.. Early November - Early April Lift Capacity....................................... 8,480 Crowd......................................4,500 skiers

Operating Hours Ticket Office .............8:15 AM - 4:30 PM Lift Hours ...................8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

www.fortbend

.com • November 2010

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Fannin Pediatrics, PA P

Headliners continued from page 46

Pictured top row, left to right: Debbie Mark (PetVet), Chris Owens (OYO Geospace), Jacki Breckon (Giggle Co-Founder), Cynthia von Tesmar (Fluor Corporation). Middle row: Elizabeth Alexander (CoChair), Doc Mark (PetVet), Erica Noyes (Co-Chair).

Front row: Stefani Fitzgerald (Co-Chair) and Nancy Piazza (Co-Chair).

Victoria L. Regan, MD Angela Chia, MD Steve Alley, MD Julia Conlon, MD Christa Filak, MD

UT Physicians Sienna Village

Texas Medical Center

713.486.1200

713.790.9220

STARS Kicks Off “Girlfriends Giggle” with Pampered Feet

6400 Fannin, Suite 2110 Houston, TX 77030

8810 Hwy 6, Suite 100 Missouri City, TX 77459

Hello, Fulshear H Simonton 2011/2012 NEWCOMER GUIDE AND VISITOR DIRECTORY

have a great shot?

Enter ouronCteosvte!r Photo C

ENTER TO WIN Richmond-Rosenberg Fulshear-Simonton Newcomer Guide is looking for a photo to be used as the 2011 cover image. The photo should focus on people, places or happenings around Richmond, Rosenberg, Fulshear or Simonton.

Deadline: January 31, 2011 WINNER OF THE YEAR Only one winner will be featured on the cover; however, other entries may be used throughout the publication. This is a fantastic opportunity for amateurs and professionals. Have your work distributed all over town- on the cover! You will receive photo credit!

NO LIMIT TO ENTRIES To submit a photo, e-mail it to Grace@fortbendfocus. com with a subject line of “RR-FS Photo Contest.”

Photos must be HIGH RESOLUTION- at least 300 dpi and an actual size of at least 4”x 6”. Please include some basic information about the photo such as: who, what, where, your name and phone number.

By submitting an entry, the photographer gives Richmond-Rosenberg Fulshear-Simonton Newcomer Guide the right to use and publish their photograph.

Published by Focus Magazines fort bend

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The Fort Bend County Women’s Center and its STARS Auxiliary have begun planning the 6th Annual Girlfriends Giggle. The event will take place on Thursday, February 24 at Fluor Corporation’s “Diva Den” from 6:30pm to 11pm in Sugar Land, Texas.

Fluor Corporation, OYO Geospace, and PetVet have recently committed to return as Sponsors for 2011.

Girlfriends Giggle is a grown-up girls’ pajama party, where guests celebrates female friendships with local food and drinks, dancing, shopping, and indulgences such as massages and manicures. Last year, the event raised nearly $100,000 for the benefit of the Women’s Center. In the past 28 years, the Center has assisted more than 28,000 women and children victims of domestic and sexual violence.

“The Women’s Center assistance and programs serve a large need in Fort Bend County helping domestic violence victims and their children achieve violence-free lifestyles and get back on their feet. Our committee of local women works passionately to build this event into Fort Bend County’s ultimate Girls’ Night Out.” says Girlfriends Giggle Co-Chair Nancy Piazza.

For information on Girlfriends Giggle or the Women’s Center, please visit www.fortbendwomenscenter.org or call Stefani Fitzgerald at 713-515-5779. H

FORT BEND NEW NEIGHBOR The Autumn Leaves Difference in Specialized Alzheimer’s Assisted Living Communities Choosing an Assisted Living (AL) community for your family member is one of the most important decisions you will make as a caregiver. Choosing the right place becomes even more important when your loved one is living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of memory impairment. Understanding the differences between facilities that specialize in Alzheimer’s and dementia care from other facilities that don’t, can assist you in making the best decision for your family.

Autumn Leaves Alzheimer’s and Memory Care Assisted Living Communities are qualified leaders in providing specialized dementia care in a home-like environment and incorporate care practices that are specifically designed for individual’s living with memory impairment. Each community has an on-site licensed nursing staff with specialized expertise in dementia care and Life Enrichment Coordinators that are dedicated to providing dementiaspecific group and individual activity programs. Individual dietary management

and care plans are developed for each resident and focus on enhancing quality of life.

“We understand how memory impairment affects individuals and this knowledge plays a vital role in the way we develop our communities. We make sure that every element in our system works together to create a secure, home-like environment for our residents”, said Jodie Massey, Director of Sales for Autumn Leaves “Our motto is ‘Our Family Caring For Your Family’ and we try to instill that in everything we do every day.” Each of our Autumn Leaves communities feature elements totally focused on our resident’s emotional, physiological, dietary and social needs with: • Expert care provided by dedicated and trained caregivers • Life Enrichment activities designed specifically for our residents • On-site licensed nurses with specialized expertise in memory care • Fresh, quality meals balanced for our resident’s nutritional needs

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.com • November 2010

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• Specially designed communities that provide a home-like environment • Ask about our Day Stay and Respite Care Program Family-owned and operated, Autumn Leaves communities combine a warm, home-like environment with the highest quality care available. All facility designs, details, and features are extensively researched in order to provide specifically designed living spaces for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of memory impairment. With nine Autumn Leaves communities in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, three locations in the greater Chicago area, one currently operating in the Houston area and three more in development, and a new project in development in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Autumn Leaves is quickly becoming the gold standard for Alzheimer’s and Memory Care Assisted Living. For more information about Autumn Leaves view www.AutumnLeavesLiving.com or call 1-888-662-8886.

“Our Family Caring for Your Family.” H

FORT BEND NEW NEIGHBOR Designs In Gems® in Sugar Land Town Square

The Hamilton Vein Center is Now Open in Sugar Land

Designs In Gems® - Bruce J. Snider M.S., G.G.- GIA, NAJA - a Custom Jewelry Designer and Graduate Gemologist from the Gemological Institute of America has opened up a new location for Designs In Gems® at 16180 City Walk in the Sugar Land Town Square on the corner of Hwy 6 and 59. Bruce has been in business in Houston since 1984 and is moving from his location at 14441 Memorial Drive #8. He is a member of the Better Business Bureau, The National Association of Jewelry Appraisers and is listed with the Jewelers Board of Trade.

Designs In Gems® is a full service jewelry shop that offers a gemological laboratory for jewelry, diamond and gemstone appraisals, onsite jewelry repair as well as watch repair, diamond and bullion brokerage and especially - Custom Jewelry Designs.

Bruce is also the owner of Metallurgical Repair Laser Services, Inc. that specializes in the micro-laser welding and assembly of metals - titanium, surgical, tool and cobalt stainless steels, aluminum 4000 series as well as platinum, gold and silver objects – on such items as race car and motorcycle parts to heat sensitive components on high-end jewelry, purses and shoes.

Please visit his website at: www.brucejsnider. com and call 713 995-7975 for your appointment. Normal business hours are Monday - Saturday from 10-6 and by appointment.

The Hamilton Vein Center is now open and conveniently located in the Sugar Land area near the junction of Hwy 6 and the Southwest Freeway. The Center, under the direction of founder and interventional radiologist Dr. Carlos Hamilton III, provides a comprehensive approach to the diagnosis and treatment of varicose and spider veins. These vein Carlos R. Hamilton III, M.D. conditions affect approximately 55% of women and 45% of men in the community and are increasingly being recognized by the medical community as more than just a cosmetic problem. Dr. Hamilton applies his expertise in diagnostic ultrasound to determine the root cause of unsightly and painful varicose and spider veins. The center offers the latest and most innovative treatment options including endovenous ablation, a minimally invasive and virtually pain free alternative to the classic vein stripping procedure.

This treatment is covered by Medicare and most private insurance plans. The treatment takes about an hour and patients are back to work and their normal activities the following day.

The Center is open Monday through Friday from 8-5 and free screenings are offered on Saturdays.

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FORT BEND NEW NEIGHBOR Extreme Pita Opens in Sugar Land Looking for a quick, delicious meal to go that isn’t dripping with grease and fat? Then visit Extreme Pita, Sugar Land’s newest fresh, fast and fun way to satisfy the individual tastes of the health conscious customer! Located at 15810 Southwest Freeway, Suite 400, Extreme Pita offers customers a variety of lunch and dinner choices as well as Pierre Daniel catering options for your Franchisee next party.

Menu items range from fresh salads and soups to delicious, customizable, made-to-order pita wraps.

Enjoy pitas such as the Extreme Club, Philly Cheese Steak or Grilled Chicken, all combined with a choice of different vegetable varieties served fresh or sautéed to perfection right when it’s ordered. Expecting company? Choose from a variety of pitas to make a convenient party tray that can feed up to 15 people each! Not serving a full meal, but want something guests can nibble on? Check out the garden vegetable or fresh fruit tray available in two sizes to meet any entertainer’s needs.

Extreme Pita is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 am to 10 pm and Fridays and Saturdays from 11 am to 11 pm. To order from Extreme Pita, visit the store, call in your order to 281-494-PITA or order online at www.extremepita.com.

Top Shelf Wine & Spirits, Your Neighborhood Boutique Wine and Spirits One Stop Shop!

Owners and long-time Sugar Land residents, Manmeet and Paul Likhari and Preet and Hardeepak Munday invite you to come and enjoy their truly unique inventory of hand-selected wine, spirits, and chilled beer, many of which are not available at other local liquor retailers, set in a fun colorful and retro atmosphere - Top Shelf Wine & Spirits, your neighborhood boutique wine and spirits one stop shop! Top Shelf is located at Lexington Square Shopping Center at the intersection of Austin and Lexington in the heart of First Colony opposite First Colony Mall.

Wine specialist Stuart Montgomery and spirits specialist Joshua Male will be glad to educate and assist you in selecting the perfect pairing to a special meal or occasion, an unforgettable gift, or something new to expand your palate. If you have a specific request, they will be happy to order your favorite items not available in-store. In addition to its wide selection of high-end items, Top Shelf offers a vast array of value-priced items suitable to any wine and spirit enthusiast’s budget. Also available is an exciting collection of entertaining accessories including glassware, napkins, decanters, swizzle sticks, wine/ cocktail books, and seasonal items perfect for gift-giving.

Top Shelf’s tasting bar will be holding weekly special events including tastings, product showcases, and more. For more information on upcoming events, please visit www.topshelfsugarland.com or follow them on Facebook and Twitter @TopShelfSL. The grand opening of Top Shelf was held on Friday, October 1st, 2010.

U.S. CARPET & FLOORS

Travertine • Laminate • Wood • Slate • Tile • Caesarstone • Granite Counter Tops COMPLETE REMODELING OF KITCHEN, BATH, FIRE PLACE & STAIRS

INTEREST FREE FINANCING UNTIL 2011 WE WARRANTY OUR JOBS. 18 YEARS IN BUSINESS.

12705 S. Kirkwood Suite 211 Stafford, TX 77477

281-277-1515

12230 Westheimer Suite 65 Houston, TX 77077

281-531-9344

Mon-Fri: 9-7 • Sat: 9-5 • Sun: By Appointment Only www.fortbend

Contact Us For Our Monthly Specials.

.com • November 2010

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HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING AND DINING Top Shelf Wine & Spirits

Karl’s at the Riverbend

At Top Shelf Wine & Spirits, Your Neighborhood Boutique Wine & Spirits One Stop Shop, our goal is simple: sell good wine, spirits & beer that have been hand selected to our customers. We specialize in low production wineries, wines that don’t have the marketing or recognition they deserve, as well as popular and respected favorites that truly deserve all the hype and recognition they obtain. You will find something that will surprise you on every shelf. Whether you are searching for a bold Cotes du Rhone, a slatey and graceful Spanish Priorat or an extracted and complex Howell Mountain Cabernet, we will have something for you. We feel that our Scotch selection will mesmerize the well-versed Scotch lover, our wine selection that will appeal to every wine lover of the graceful art, and our global beer selection will find the Beer Buff reaching into our chilled beer section!

In addition to our wide selection of high-end items, Top Shelf offers a vast array of value-priced items suitable to any wine and spirit enthusiast’s budget. Also available is an exciting collection of entertaining accessories including glassware, napkins, decanters, swizzle sticks, wine/cocktail books, and seasonal items perfect for gift-giving.

Top Shelf’s tasting bar is specifically designed for multiple weekly special events including tastings, product showcases, and more. For more information on upcoming events, please visit www.topshelfsugarland.com or follow them on Facebook and Twitter @TopShelfSL. Top Shelf is located at 16535 Lexington Blvd. Suite 150, and is open Monday-Saturday 10 am – 9 pm. The grand opening of this fun, colorful and retro experience was Friday, October 1. See Ad on page 2.

Coming to Karl’s during the holidays reminds us of the old song, “Over the River and Through the Woods”. It starts at Thanksgiving with a huge buffet feast. In December, there is always a big, freshly decorated Christmas tree, poinsettias and other holiday decorations.

Karl’s is a great place for office parties, client meetings and family gettogethers. We have semi-private areas when we are open, or we can host private luncheons or dinners at other times, including the daytime.

Our Dinner Menu, offered Tuesday through Saturday, includes delicious aged steaks, wild game, chicken, milk-fed veal, pork and off-the-menu specials, such as Rack of Lamb, Fresh Trout Almondine, Cedar-Plank Combo (Salmon, Filet and Prawn) and Prime Rib. A second menu, the Neighborhood Menu, is available Tuesday through Thursday night, and features comfortfood and budget dinners with entrée prices below $11.95.

Sunday Brunch is a buffet with more than 50 breakfast, lunch and dessert items. All of Karl’s desserts (Cheesecake, Double Chocolate Brownie and others) are made fresh, and Karl’s Apple Streudel is available for sale in a 35-ounce size that comes gift-packaged and can be shipped Priority Mail to distant friends and relatives.

Gift Certificates are also available and make great gifts. Look us up on our website at www.karlsrb.com or on FaceBook for more information and pictures. Located 7 minutes from Pecan Grove, 10-15 from Cinco Ranch and 25 minutes from First Colony, Karl’s at the Riverbend makes a good central location for far-west Houston parties.

Karl’s at the Riverbend Romantic Dining in the Country

European & American Cuisine served Tuesday through Saturday for dinner

Lavish Sunday Brunch Reservations Recommended

Susie and Karl Camenzind, Proprietors

Just in time for the Holidays!

Wild Game • Prime Rib Black Angus Steaks Wienerschnitzel • Fresh Fish Extensive Wine Cellar

Karl’s Apple Streudel - Order Today!

281-238-9300

www.karlsrb.com RESERVATIONS SUGGESTED Advertorial

5011 FM 723, Richmond, TX fort bend

magazine • November 2010

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HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING AND DINING Chef for You Chef for You is your solution for holiday entertaining at the home, office, and weekly dinners to go. In business since 1994, Chef for You began by providing daily dinner solutions for busy people.

They post their weekly menus online for convenient ordering. Due to customer demand, Chef for You began catering events in 2000. Chef for You has been named best caterer in Fort Bend for the five consecutive years. Their annual Thanksgiving Menu is posted at www.chef4u.net and the deadline to order is November 20. The menu consists of Herb Roasted Turkey Breast with Homemade Gravy, Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Roasted Bananas and Candied Pecans, Spinach Casserole, Traditional Cornbread Stuffing, Classic Mashed Potatoes, Strawberry Banana Jello Salad, Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, Homemade Cranberry Sauce, Cranberry Fruit Relish, Green Beans Almondine, Green Bean Casserole, and their signature cakes and pies, including Chocolate Pumpkin Cheesecake, Kaluha

Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie, Traditional Pecan Pie, and Pumpkin Pie. Orders include easy heating instructions. Pick up times are Wednesday, November 24, 3-7 PM and Thanksgiving Day, 8:30 AM-12 PM. Corporate Thanksgiving luncheon will be available November 17-19 and must be booked in advance.

Dates for December are filling up quickly so please call now to secure your

holiday celebration. Staff, tables, linens, décor, flowers, and entertainment can be arranged to ensure a successful event.

Contact Marcie or Crissy at 281-313-2433, email Marcie@chef4u.net, or fill out the online catering request form at www. chef4u.net.

Chef for You is located at 9920 Highway 90 A, Ste. B-260 Sugar Land, TX 77478.

ORDER YOUR COMPLETE THANKSGIVING DINNER BY NOVEMBER 20TH Pick up times: Wednesday Nov. 24, 3-7 pm or Thanksgiving day 8:30-12 pm

Orders include easy detailed heating instructions

Order online at www.chef4u.net

Nora Anne’s Flower Shoppe

Holiday Cooking Dinners To Go Corporate Catering Social Catering Call now to book your office holiday luncheon 20 Guest Minimum

9920 Highway 90A Ste. B 260 | Sugar Land | 281-313-2433 Tuesday - Friday 10-7 | www.chef4u.net

Le t us do your next special event cake!

281-491-5858

www.noraannesflowers.com 5858 New Territory Blvd.

Sugar Land, TX 77479

We have a lunch menu as well as healthy salads.

Dine in or to go.

Receive a small cupcake with cake order.

Bring in this ad.

www.fortbend

Cupcake CAFE

16525 Lexington Blvd.

281-242-2744 www.cupcakecafeoftexas.com

.com • November 2010

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Advertorial

2936_FtBendFOCUS.pdf

1

10/18/10

5:47 46PMCDT

HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING AND DINING

Raising Cane’s At Raising Cane’s we’re all about ONE LOVE – chicken finger meals.

We’re committed to serving the highest quality chicken finger meals as fast as we can, in a friendly, clean restaurant, and having FUN while doing it.

When Todd Graves opened the first Raising Cane’s location, he had a vision that the restaurant would provide a place in the community where people could receive high quality food served by a friendly crew in a clean, safe and fun environment.

The community response was overwhelming and he wanted to make sure Cane’s gave back to the community that was supporting his dream. This began the Raising Cane’s commitment to supporting the community that supports us.

As we grew Raising Cane’s into Sugar Land, we have continued to be true to that commitment – that Raising Cane’s gives back to the communities where we are located. This means right here in our city. Our crewmembers allow us to follow through on this commitment when they work hard to make our business successful. Their hard work generates the resources we use to support local schools, churches, charities, and via sponsorships and donations.

We enjoy improving the lives of those whom make our company the success that it is, and we believe this sets our business apart from just another restaurant chain in Sugar Land.

We are working to become an integral part of our community, and we thank you, our customers, for allowing us to make that goal a reality.

Advertorial

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HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING AND DINING Napa Grille It has been two years already since we opened the doors at Napa Grille.

Where has the time gone?! It has not been an idle time for Jim and I. We have recently expanded our restaurant to include a beautiful new lounge area where you can sit and relax with a nice glass of wine or your favorite martini from our full service bar. Hungry? Enjoy one of our many delicious appetizers. If it’s live music and dancing you like, join us five nights a week, Tuesday through

Saturday at 7:30.

Have a business meeting you need to set up? Or maybe someone’s birthday celebration? Our full menu is available Monday through Friday 11 am until 11 pm and Saturday 5 pm until 12 am. You can start with a cup of homemade soup, to a fresh salad and then a mouth watering bleu chesse burger or maybe a tender filet mignon. Top it all off with a delicious dessert made fresh in our kitchen. We offer Daily Specials

Join Us in Our New Napa Lounge

which include Monday Steak and Lobster, Tuesday Dinner for Two and Saturday Prime Rib. And, there’s always the Chefs Selection to check out! Don’t forget the holidays are coming up fast!

Book your holiday party here at Napa Grille.

Jim and I, new to the area, have been embraced by the support and friendship of so many here. We are looking forward to many more years in your community.

Thank you Sugar Land!! – Bonny

Specials

Monday $ 24.95

Steak and Lobster 6oz. Filet Mignon & 6oz. Lobster Tail With Choice of Potato and Vegetable of the Day

Reserve your Holiday Parties Now

Food~Drinks and More

Tuesday $49.90

Dinner for Two

Choose from the Chef ’s Menu

Monday-Thursday 11am - 11pm Friday 11am - Midnight Saturday 5pm - 1am Closed Sunday

14019 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, Texas 77478 • Call 281-277-2599

www.fortbend

.com • November 2010

Wednesday Live Jazz 7:30pm to Close

Thursday Martini Night with Entertainment by Frank and Brenda

Saturday $17.90

Appetizer Dinner Selection for 2 Dessert Bottle of Wine

King Cut $25.90 Prime Rib Of Beef

Entertainment by Mark Houston

Bring Disco Shoes for Live Music

See our Menu @ www.NapaGrille.net

Full Bar & Live Music Tuesday - Saturday

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Advertorial

The Imperial Performing Arts Christens New Theatre with ‘Steel Magnolias’

By Melinda Wood

A

fter two years of planning, preparing and crossing fingers, Imperial Performing Arts is moving into its permanent home at the Sugar Land Town Center and is delighted to kick off its 2010-2011 inaugural season with “Steel Magnolias.” For more than a year now, the organization has brought quality, professional productions to Sugar Land through donated performance spaces.

Executive Director of the Imperial Performing Arts, Edward Cromwell, is

thrilled about the upcoming opening of the new theatre. “It’s kind of like birthing an elephant,” Cromwell said with a laugh.

“I personally did not expect that we would have accomplished all of this in two years.

We’re very grateful.”

Cromwell, his wife and friends have dreamed about this moment for years now. They had a vision for a cultural district and set their sights on Sugar Land.

“This concept is an unusual thing,” Cromwell started. “There’s not really a fort bend

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model for this. Our idea was that the city of Sugar Land was an ideal location for a professional performing arts location. We wanted to ultimately develop Sugar Land as a destination for the arts. We knew a city this size would probably not be able to support full season companies, but they would be able to support one company that would take on the full range of the arts.”

This year, patrons can expect to see plays, operas, orchestras and much more at the new theatre. The organization also strives to provide arts education to the community by offering workshops and private lessons in voice, music and acting.

Guests to the new Imperial Theatre can expect an intimate atmosphere, Cromwell said. The staff has worked hard to transform the old Swoozies storefront into a 140-seat theatre complete with a lobby, box office and dressing rooms for cast members.

He also shares his excitement about what Imperial Performing Arts has brought and will continue to bring to the Fort Bend area.

“It’s going to bring Sugar Land residents the opportunity to enjoy fully professional and wonderfully entertaining performances in their own community,” he said. “There is also a tremendous benefit to the quality of life to a city when it has a healthy arts community. In these kinds of economic times, the arts are a wonderful escape from the day-to-day.”

“Steel Magnolias” will open November 4th and will run through November 14th. Ragan Courtney, the play’s director and an acclaimed playwright, has been with the organization from the beginning along with his wife. Courtney encourages residents to come out to see the inaugural production.

When asked to describe the play, Courtney recites a line direct from the script.

“Laughter through tears is my favorite emotion,” he quotes.

Courtney continues, “The play gives a wonderful feeling of the Deep South that’s not cliché but sweet and nostalgic. It has a sense of tenderness and strong family ties.”

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit imperialperformingarts.org or call the office at 281-277-7444. Tickets are priced at $30 for adults and $25 for seniors, students and military. H

Open Weekends & Select Holidays – Galveston Island, Texas Free Parking Free Tubes e Picnics Welcom

ohol, please.

No glass or alc

Open Weekends and Select Holidays* 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

September 25, 2010 THROUGH December 31, 2010 *Visit schlitterbahn.com for the complete operating schedule.

Prices, attraction availability and operating schedule are subject to change without notice.

schlitterbahn.com 409.770.WAVE Roar down thrilling speed slides.

Brave the Torrent Tidal Wave River.

Soar through enclosed tube slides.

Splash into three different kid’s areas and MORE!

Over a Dozen Heated Attractions!

SAVE up to $18!

SAVE $3 EACH! Present this coupon prior to purchase at any Galveston Island ticket window on an Indoor Season operating day and SAVE $3 each on up to 6 full-price, all-day tickets. Not valid with any other offer, discount, special price, prepaid, afternoon, group, two-day, or season tickets.

Tickets must be purchased at Schlitterbahn and used the same day. Coupon not applicable to online discount tickets. Coupon has no cash value and is not for resale. Prices, operating schedule and attraction availability subject to change without notice. Coupon expires December 31, 2010. ® 2010 Waterpark Management, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

www.fortbend

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By Nick Nicholson

S

tieg Larsson began thinking about writing detective novels back in the early 90’s, according to co-worker Anna-Lena Lodenius in an interview with the Swedish newspaper Veckans Affärer. He had always been interested in particularly Anglo-Saxon literature and knew the works of Elizabeth George, Minette Walters and Sara Paretsky very well. He knew what ingredients a good detective story should have, and he even reluctantly decided to spice it up with a bit in many ways. What Stieg Larsson did was create the Millennium Trilogy - a series of three books that focus on a not so everyday

heroin who should never be underestimated. All three books have been made into films that have been released this calendar year. The first, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo; the second, The Girl who Played with Fire; and the final installment, The Girl who Kicked the Hornet’s Nest. This series of books and films are arguably the finest trio of films since Star Wars hit the big screen.

Without question, Larsson saved the best for last in this final edition to the series that defines dark film and picks up immediately after the second film concludes. The star of the film, Lisbeth Salander (Noomi Rapace), is in the process of being transported to the hospital with a brain injury. Her best friend and co-worker, journalist Mikael Blomkvist (Michael Nyqvist), is under the gun to clear Lisbeth of the charges against her - as well as work to help keep her safe and alive. As their combined enemies work to destroy them and the evidence in the case, chaos comes from all directions with multiple plot lines and story arcs converging together into one of the most fascinating endings to a film I have seen in years.

The performance of Rapace as Lisbeth is clearly a defining role that should be recognized with an Oscar. Her ability to exude the multitude of emotions, even while confined to a hospital bed without speech, is simply unequaled. As she works to regain her trademark paranoia and screw the world mentality, her transformation is mesmerizing. The performance of Blomkvist is also inspiring, but clearly Rapace steals the film and every scene in which she so much as sniffs. The film’s director, Daniel Alfredson, brilliantly pieces the film together keeping the pacing of the film moving forward with the interest of the viewers completely intact. Pay attention at the end as the film will be over before you know it and you won’t realize just how special the ending of this film actually is until the credits role. This is arguably the best film series of all time.

The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet’s Nest Starring: Noomi Rapace & Michael Nyqvist Director: Daniel Alfredson Company: Music Box Films Now Showing: in Local Theaters MPAA Rating: R Grade: A+

Nick Nicholson is the Film and Entertainment Critic for CNN Radio, the Fort Bend Star, Focus Magazine, Pearland Focus as well as Focus on Women. In addition, his reviews can be seen and heard in numerous other print/media outlets in Texas and Oklahoma. Mr. Nicholson is in great demand as a speaker to both public and civic organizations on the subject of film and the entertainment industry. He is the co-founder of the Houston Film Critics Society and is currently the President of the organization. fort bend

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Gruen-Bradshaw Wedding

M

iss Carly Joy Gruen and Mr. Chad Monroe Bradshaw were united in marriage on Sunday, July 4, 2010 at half past six o’clock in the evening at the Mandola Estate Winery in Driftwood, Texas just outside of Austin. Mr. Brett Rodgers conducted the ceremony.

Heritage Baptist Church a place to call home Schedule of Services SUNDAY Sunday School................. 9:30am Sunday AM Worship ..... 10:45am Bible Classes ................... 6:05 pm Sunday PM Worship ..... 7:00 pm WEDNESDAY Bible Study...................... 7:00pm Awana Bible Clubs .......... 7:00pm

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jack Molho of Sugar Land, Texas, and Mr. Larry Gruen of Tampa. The groom is the son of Ms. Patti Bradshaw of Dallas and Mr. and Mrs. Mark Bradshaw of San Antonio. Grandparents include Ms. Barbara Batten and Mr. and Mrs. Carlton Batten of Sugar Land; Mr. Jack Gruen; Mr. and Mrs. Warren Bradshaw; Mr. and Mrs. David Crawford; and Mr. Jack Grimm.

Given in marriage by her parents and escorted by her father, Carly wore a vintage lace gown accented with hand-sewn crystals. Life-long friend Kiley Lubojasky of Austin served as the Maid of Honor.

Bridesmaids included Amy Dunlap and Lindsay Sullivan of Sugar Land, cousins of the bride; Rachel Moise of Austin; Allie Perry and Hayrelyn De Jesus of Sugar Land; and Lara Williams from London, England.

Flower girls included Mackenzie Gholson and Sophie Sullivan of Sugar Land, Alli Crawford of San Antonio, and RaeAnne Bradshaw from Dallas.

“Honored Women included Debbie ” Dunlap, the bride’s aunt; Mollie Williams, great aunt, Catherine Molho, sister of the bride, Lori Caban and Jules Thomas, sisters in spirit, and Angie and Mica Crawford, the groom’s aunt and cousin.

Serving as the groom’s best man was Cotton Dowdy from Austin. Chase and Colton Bradshaw, brothers of the groom, served as groomsmen.

Anthony Adamson of Houston, Hector Garza and Andrew Threlkeld of Austin, and Zach McManus of College Station also served as groomsmen.

The ceremony musicians were Maggie Amini and Elliott Goudge of San Antonio. Ushers included Tyler Dowdy, Russell Hene, Brad Ratliff, John Simmons, and Mason Thomas.

Brothers Charlie and Chris Molho escorted family members.

Carly is a graduate of the University of Texas, receiving her undergraduate degree in 2008, a Bachelor of Science in Communications. She received her Master’s Degree in May of 2010 in Social Work. Carly is working for the Literacy Coalition of Central Texas in Austin. Chad received his Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology from University of Texas in May, 2010.

He teaches and hopes to coach high school sports.

Dr. Charles A. Murphy, Sr. Pastor

281-403-4994 www.hbctx.org

The couple resides in Austin.

2223 FM 1092 Missouri City, Texas 77459

To advertise your engagement / wedding, call 281-690-4242. www.fortbend

.com • November 2010

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on

Fitness

By Sharon Hilburn Sr. Director, Wellness & Membership, YMCA

Local Family Builds Healthy Spirit, Mind and Body at the Fort Bend Family YMCA

I

t is always inspiring to see a family with a strong bond. At the Fort Bend Family YMCA, we have many families that spend quality time together and participate in the many free activities at the YMCA. One family in particular sets the example as a family who represents the YMCA’s mission of putting Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

Jennifer and Anthony Breedlove joined the Fort Bend Family YMCA in October of 2009, and they have experienced the many benefits that the YMCA provides to families. What makes this family so special, you may wonder? The entire family participates in group fitness classes and events together.

When Jennifer Breedlove began her wellness journey at the YMCA, she joined as a family membership. Her family includes Jennifer, and her husband, her biological girl and boy twins, Taylor and Tyler, now age 13, Autumn,

age 4, Ashton, age 3, as well as, her mother, Joan Harris. This three-generation family is active, involved and a pleasure to know.

When Jennifer, age 34, initially joined last October, she described herself as overweight and overwhelmed.

Besides having two small girls and not being able to lose weight, her selfesteem was as low as her energy level.

She decided that she was going to get back into shape and bring her family with her. At that time, less than a year ago, she came to the Body Combat and Cardio Strength Endurance classes as a size 18 and stayed at the back of the room wearing a black and white floppy hat and frumpy clothes. Now, Jennifer is a size 8. She feels more beautiful and confident and is an example for others.

Not only is she a health success story, she has included her entire family in the makeover.

Anthony, age 33, loves the Cycle and

The Breedloves: Tyler, Anthony, Jennifer, Joan Harris and Taylor.

Taylor Breedlove won the Sienna Superstar competition and appeared in the Sienna Plantation commercial!

Body Combat classes and working out in the Wellness Center, and Jennifer and the twins take a variety of classes together. It is wonderful to see a threegeneration family all working out together in a Body Combat class and lov-

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ing it. Everyone’s health has improved.

Plus Joan, Jennifer’s mom, has a friend who joined and works out with them consistently.

“The staff is friendly, courteous and professional. The group fitness instructors are so motivating and inspiring.

They get you moving and are always willing to show modifications so every person in a class can participate and feel successful,” says Jennifer. “The instructors know what they are doing and the modifications enable beginners to participate without it being too strenuous. They helped me not feel ashamed and instead be inspired in the positive environment to reach my goals. They challenged me to do more and it built my self-confidence. The YMCA helped me get plugged back into society.”

“We have all built up our endurance,” says Jennifer. “My son, Tyler, was born with a condition called an Arterial Switch or transposition of the great vessels in the heart. He had open heart surgery when he was just eight days old. He was even on a pacemaker for a while. He has been empowered in the hospitable environment to push and finish the group fitness classes. Since he has been working out at the YMCA and taking group fitness classes and playing basketball, he is much stronger. It has strengthened his confidence as well. I took him back for his check-up, and the doctor said he can do everything.”

“I love the Kid Zone where Autumn and Ashton play with loving, positive counselors in a safe, clean environment,” says Jennifer. “There are lots of things for the kids to do and they keep the room sanitized. The counselors share stories about the children’s activities in Kid Zone while I was working out. Every parent wants that.”

“Taylor and Tyler, who both sing, enjoy the free family events, such as Karaoke night. I love the hours as well as the location, which is not far from Sienna Plantation where we live. Even the members are friendly and supportive.

They notice when I miss a day and ask me where I’ve been.” According to Jennifer, Anthony believes it is most important that everyone does activities together in a happy environment, and the Fort Bend Family YMCA makes that possible. H

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.com • November 2010

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CASA Christmas Home Tour Kick-off

Kelly Buettner & Cari Middaugh.

Nancy & Bill Frank.

Tom & Kelly Gaines.

Jim McClellan & Ruth Anne Mefford.

Irene Wisner & Kelly Metzenthin.

Carol Albers & Kaelyn Stohlhand.

Susie & Doug Goff.

Teena & Lauren Caldwell.

Fort Bend Cares Volunteer Social

Colleen Flint, Kathy DeWitt & Sonja White.

Mary Papavasiliou, Jill Curtis & Grayle James.

Sugar Land Shrine Club Participates in Fort Bend County Fair Parade

Gail McClendon & Farha Amed.

Sugar Land Shrine volunteer Julius Baumann poses with Karen and Fort Bend County Judge Candidate Jeff McMeans just before this years Fort Bend County Fair Parade. The Shrine Club of Sugar Land will hold their annual “Shrine Circus” at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds from April 27 thru May 1, 2011.

Angela Mason & Mary Moorman. fort bend

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November 2010 Winner “Still Lake”

By Sarah Shimek Congratulations Sarah, you’ve earned a $40 gift certificate to a Fort Bend restaurant!

ENTER TO WIN Fort Bend Focus Magazine is looking for great amateur photos. Think you have a great shot? Any subject matter will be considered, black and white or color, special effects and/or edited are not necessary.

A WINNER EVERY MONTH Each month’s winner receives a $40 gift certificate to a restaurant and the winning photo will be published in our magazine. To claim your prize, call Norma @ 281-690-4242. Runner-up photos may be published in our “Readers’ Photo Album.”

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

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

NO LIMIT TO ENTRIES To submit a digital photo, e-mail the file to Michael@FortBendFocus. com or send a CD or DVD by mail. Digital photos must be HIGH RESOLUTION at least 300 dpi at actual size of at least 4” x 6”. www.fortbend

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Great Grown Up Spelling Bee benefiting the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County

Asians Against Domestic Abuse’s “Harmony: Experience East Asia” Event

Erum Rami & Farha Ahmed.

Rashmi Sharma & Shanta Raghuthaman.

Vita Goodell & John Healey.

Todd Crosswhite, Ron Lewis & Joan Vogan.

Nancy Olson & Donna Tyler.

Allison Wen, Dee Koch & Harish Jajoo.

Sherry Carter, Ann Sturrock & Sharon Wallingford.

Jeff & Ann Council with David Wallace.

Mary Walker, Jim Rice, Emcee Daniella Guzman & Patti Parish-Kaminski.

Leslie Smith, Bruce Mercer, Shanna Sturgeon, Hema Frazier & Aurora Pecero.

Fort Bend Women’s Center STARS Meeting

Jim Rice, Jill Curtis & Tim Jenney.

Tri City Womens Club member on Great Day Houston

STARS is an auxiliary branch of the Fort Bend County Women’s Center comprised of women in the Fort Bend community who exhibit the strong will to lead and serve through volunteerism and fundraising. Their primary cause is helping the Women’s Center fulfill it’s mission to assist survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault through a high level of commitment of knowledge, resources and finances that directly impact the residents of the Women’s Center’s shelter. fort bend

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Debra Duncan with Delores Patterson on the set of Great Day Houston for breast cancer awareness month.

From Thompson’s Bottom to Major League Baseball Jimmie Lee Solomon Hits a Home Run

By Don Maines

J

immie Lee Solomon has a flair for the dramatic. Speaking to students on the importance of education, he saves the best for last: the fact that he’s now Major League Baseball’s Executive Vice President, Baseball Development.

The slow buildup – from growing up “in the country, a little black boy in Thompson’s Bottom” off the Brazos River through graduation from Harvard Law School – Solomon makes his ascension to “overseeing America’s pastime” all the more impressive to wide-eyed students.

About his presentation to the first group of seniors at last spring’s Career Day at Lamar Consolidated High School, Solomon said, “I wanted to make them understand that I had sat in the same rooms and walked the same halls as they do.

It doesn’t matter how much they’ve got, they’ve got a shot.

“If you apply yourself, you might make it,” he said to the students. Word quickly spread, and students in the next five sessions entered the auditorium eager to hear what Solomon had to say.

“My origins are the most important in the world to me,” Solomon said. His father was a laborer, and his mother a domestic in people’s homes. He went to a segregated school until the fifth grade. It would be two years later before his family home got indoor plumbing. “Those are the things that molded me.”

In sixth grade at Deaf Smith Elementary School, a white student told Solomon about the summer vacation her family had taken. I remember thinking “Wow!” He asked his mother why they didn’t take vacations. He laughs, “She said, ‘Are you out of your mind?’”

His mother brought home a set of encyclopedias and told her son, “Read every day and take a trip every day.” The books

Photo courtesy of Lamar Consolidated High School.

opened up whole new worlds for Solomon.

When Dartmouth College tried to recruit him because of his football prowess at Lamar, Solomon knew a lot about the prestigious Ivy League University. Dartmouth’s interest in him “made me feel special,” he said.

Solomon dug deep and studied hard at Dartmouth to earn a Bachelor of Arts with history as his major. Then, with a law degree from Harvard, he became a partner in the Washington, D.C. office of the Baker & Hostetler law firm. For 10 years, he represented and provided counsel to a combination of corporate and sports industry clients.

A football and track star in high school and college, Solomon joined Major League Baseball in 1991. He was named the head of baseball development in June 2010.

Solomon is especially proud of Reviving Baseball in Inner-cities (RBI), a program that Major League Baseball developed to provide disadvantaged youth in urban areas an opportunity to learn and enjoy the game of baseball.

In April, Solomon helped open the Houston Astros MLB Urban Youth Academy at Sylvester Turner Park in north Houston. He calls it “a bricks and mortar extension” of the RBI program.

Until the park opened four years ago, www.fortbend

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the community didn’t even have a baseball field. Now, it boasts a field; permanent seating for 500 fans, with space for an additional 1,800 fans; dugouts and lights; one auxiliary field; two little league/softball fields; and 1,500 square feet of office space and other facilities.

“I believe the more baseball our kids play, the better our society will be,” said Solomon.

Houston’s RBI program began in 1997.

In August, Houston defeated Los Angeles to claim the Senior Division (ages 16-18) title at the 18th RBI World Series in Jupiter, Florida. That was about the same time that the Pearland Little League All Stars advanced to the 64th Little League Baseball World Series in South Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

Solomon said that Major League Baseball also supports Little League International, both financially and with two program executives serving on its board of directors.

“I watched the playoffs,” said Solomon.

“I thought Pearland was a good team. I was pleased with their performance and think they represented Texas well.”

Just like Jimmie Lee Solomon has represented Fort Bend County well, and continues representing well by sharing his story with youth from his home team. H

VIP

Magazine

Honors the 2010

Champagne Reception Thursday, September 23, 2010 • Safari Texas Ranch

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magazine • November 2010

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The Jewels were treated to a one of a kind “Jewel” charm bracelet created by J Loggins Jewelers. Photos of the Jewels were displayed by Alisa Murray Photography. The reception was generously underwritten by Will and Lena Hardee of The Hardee Investment Group.

Download Photos at www.FortBendFocus.com • Photos By Mary Favre & Brenda Perry

Magazine

Honors the 2010

Jewels Luncheon Generously Underwritten by Allison and Cassandra Wen of Safari Texas Ranch Thursday, September 23, 2010 • Safari Texas Ranch

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Download Photos at www.FortBendFocus.com • Photos By Mary Favre & Brenda Perry

Magazine

Honors the 2010

Jewels Style Show Clothes provided by Dillard’s • Hair and Make Up by Salon Eben & Day Spa Thursday, September 23, 2010 • Safari Texas Ranch

fort bend

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Download Photos at www.FortBendFocus.com • Photos By Mary Favre & Brenda Perry

Magazine

Honors the 2010

Thank You Thank you to all of our sponsors and volunteers who helped make this year a huge success! See you all again next year!

Download Photos at www.FortBendFocus.com • Photos By Mary Favre & Brenda Perry

Fort Bend Focus Magazine’s

Check Presentation

Honors the

Jewels

from the Jewels of Fort Bend Event

of

Fort Bend Fort Bend Focus Magazine would like to thank the sponsors who made the Jewels of Fort Bend 2010 a success!

Emerald

Safari Texas Ranch

Ruby Fort Bend Focus publishers Michael and Lisa Fredrickson presented Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels with a check for $15,000 as beneficiaries of the Jewels of Fort Bend. Pictured are: Paul Friesen and Manuela Arroyos, Fort Bend Seniors; Alison Wen, Safari Texas Ranch; Michael and Lisa Fredrickson, Randy Briones and Kristin Weiss, Fort Bend Seniors and Jan Loggins, J Loggins Jewelers.

Will and Lena Hardee / Hardee Investment Group Alisa Murray Photography Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land J Loggins Jewelers Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Pamela Printing Salon Eben and Day Spa Dr. Shel Wellness & Medical Spa

Corporate Gem Neil & Carolyn Banfield Billy & Tammy Brown Robert C. Brown, III & Carole D. Brown Lee & Peggy Duggan Dennis E. Halford, DDS MS PB & J Pavement Marking, Inc. Richmond Bone & Joint Clinic May W. Tape, DDS Texas Direct Auto

Sapphire KJ Poetry wrote an original poem in celebration of the 2010 Jewels of Fort Bend. The poem was recited and presented to each Jewel at the check presentation at J Loggins Jewelers. Pictured are: Cassandra Wen, Peggy Duggan, KJ Poetry, Lynn Halford, Brigit Engleman and Carolyn Banfield.

www.fortbend

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Adbright Healthcare Services Inc. Champion Technologies Gurecky Manufacturing Service, Inc. Mayor Hilmar & Evalyn Moore Mr. & Mrs. Jack Wendt

FORT BEND KIDS CHALKBOARD

Sponsored by:

The published photos came from Press Releases submitted to Fort Bend Focus by the schools/organizations of these children.

Missouri City recently participated in National Night Out in an effort to promote neighborhood spirit and improve police-community partnerships.

Pictured above is Firefighter M. Jester and resident Julius Barkoh.

Pictured left is Drew Molenarr checking out a city fire truck.

St. Laurence Catholic School welcomed over 700 guests to celebrate Grandparent’s day. Grandparents and special guests had an opportunity to visit their grandchildren’s classrooms later that morning.

The Clements High School Stars Dance Team is proud to present it’s annual Winter Extravaganza on Monday November 15th at 7pm in the CHS auditorium.

Admission is FREE! Pictured are Alishba Sadiq, Krystal Kwong, Grace Chen & Melinda Taylor of the current Stars Dance Team.

Clements High School Marching Band and Color Guard recently competed in the 2010 Lamar CISD Invitational Marching Band contest where they won Best in Class, Outstanding Drum Major, Outstanding Percussion and Outstanding Auxiliary. Pictured are Drum Majors Jasmine John, Eric Lane and Karimah Browne holding their trophies.

The Lamar Legends 9U select baseball team finished in second place in their first tournament, the Fall Classic, in Spring. Pictured are (bottom row): Heath Cook, Tyler Diamond, Jackson Jobes, Jeffrey Greer, Will Dolan, and Nick Cassapo. Second row: Ty Maida, Ryan Grace, Hunter Shultz, Michael Imhoff, Brandon Kostelnik, and Kam Mohmand. Top row: Coach Jason Jobes, Coach Sam Maida, Manager Greg Imhoff, and Coach John Cassapo. fort bend

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NORA ANNE’S

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If you or your children have recently married and you would like to submit your wedding, all you need is at least eight photos of the ceremony and/or reception.

It doesn’t matter where the wedding took place as long as it was in the last year. You or your parent/s must reside in Fort Bend.

Fill out the “wedding form” at our website www.FortBendFocus.com and email photos to grace@fortbendfocus.com.

Magazine

Photographers are welcome to submit photos.

Deadline for submission: December 6th. www.fortbend

.com • November 2010

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ONCE AGAIN

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MEDISPA & NAILS

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L & M TRADING

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Chan Luu bracelets will compliment any outfit! holiday candle from Aveda 13115 SW Fwy @ Hwy 90A 2250 Lone Star, Sugar Land, TX 77479 15510 Lexington Ste. G, Sugar Land 281-265-2250 • www.twentytwofiftyinteriors.com 281-980-5160 www.Salonebenanddayspa.com 281-491-9000 • Classicchevysugarland.com

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DAVID W. POWELL, M.D. DERMATOLOGY “If your skin is not becoming to you, then you should be coming to us” 281-494-0050 www.powelldermatology.com

DR. SHEL WELLNESS & MEDICAL SPA TOWN CENTER WELLNESS Obagi ELASTIderm® Eye Treatment— A one of a kind topical eye treatment that really works 1437 Hwy 6 Suite 100, Sugar Land 281-313-SHEL (7435) • www.Dr.Shel.com

FRANK’S NURSERY

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J LOGGINS JEWELERS

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M edical F ocus Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Offers Free Flu Shots to Benefit Santa’s Exchange

Front Row: Amy Saenz; Leena Taneja. Back Row: Eva Short; Jackie Freeman; Kaelyn Stolhand.

Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, in collaboration with Fort Bend and Sugar Land Exchange Club and the Sugar Land Rotary, will provide free flu shots on Saturday, November 13 to community members who participate in Santa’s Gift Exchange. Fort Bend residents can bring a new, unwrapped toy or clothing item to Methodist Sugar Land Hospital from 8 a.m. to noon in exchange for a 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 once again to provide this community offering. This is a great way for the community to stay healthy while also putting smiles on children’s faces during the holiday season,” said Chris Siebenaler, CEO of Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

In 2009, Santa’s Gift Exchange provided toys and clothing to more than 3,000 economically disadvantaged children in Fort Bend County. Organizers of Santa’s Gift Exchange 2010 are anticipating an equal or greater number of qualifying families due to recent economic downturns. “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 Jennipher Cole, Chair of Santa’s Gift Exchange 2010. “We are looking forward to partnering with Methodist Sugar Land Hospital for a third year. What better way than to get a flu shot and in return you are able to give back to the children in this

community,” says Amy Mitchell, President of Sugar Land Exchange Club.

“Our community is well known for it’s 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.

If you would like to participate in this community event, please bring an unwrapped, new toy or clothing item to the new main lobby of Methodist Sugar Land Hospital between the times of 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 13th.

The flu vaccine is formulated to provide protection against three different flu viruses – H1N1, H3N2 and influenza B. Methodist Sugar Land Hospital will be distributing a limited supply of the influenza vaccine to persons age 18 and over with no history of egg and/or latex allergy. H

Pain Management Improves Quality of Life - Free Seminars Everyone experiences pain. It’s not pleasant, but fortunately, for most of us it’s temporary. For those who experience chronic pain, though, it can be debilitating. Cheryl White, M.D., and Abraham Thomas, M.D., two of the board certified pain specialists at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, answer some common questions about treating pain.

Q: Why is pain management so important?

Dr. White: Chronic pain can affect every facet of a person’s life. If someone is in pain, it can damage their family relationships, their performance at work, their enjoyment of life and their ability to sleep.

Managing pain is very important, and yet, in general, patients experiencing chronic pain don’t always seek medical attention.

Q: What’s the psychological impact of chronic pain?

Dr. Thomas: Stress and pain go handin-hand. If you have pain, you often become stressed out, and then the stress makes the pain worse. But if we can alleviate the pain through treatment, a patient’s outlook brightens. Managing pain can improve quality of life.

Q: What are some of the most common causes of the pain you treat?

Dr. White: We treat a variety of conditions associated with pain, including shingles, fibromyalgia, spinal stenosis, fort bend

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degenerative disc disease, post-surgery pain, chronic regional pain syndrome, and back and neck pain. Because there are so many types of pain – and also because each patient reacts differently Cheryl White, M.D. to treatments – we take an individualized approach to each case.

Q: What treatments do you use?

Dr. Thomas: Epidural steroid injections are a common and effective treatment for many patients. In some cases we use medications including muscle relaxants, nerve pain medicines and antiinflammatory medications. We also rely on a variety of procedures to relieve pain, such as radio frequency lesioning (RFL), which burns some of the sensory nerves to block pain transmission, or spinal cord stimulation, a cutting-edge procedure in which electrodes are used to block pain transmission. We may refer patients to physical therapy or have the patient consult a surgeon.

Q: When should a patient seek further treatment?

Dr. White: While not all pain can be cured, it can be managed – especially if back or neck pain is keeping you from taking part in everyday activities. Our team of pain specialists at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Spine Center will perform a thorough evaluation and formulate a treatment plan specific to your condition.

The new Spine Center is located on the Methodist Sugar Land Hospital campus with easy access off Town Center Boulevard. Patients with primary care physician referrals, as well as those without referrals, are welcome. For more information or to schedule an appointment at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Spine Center, please call 281-313-BACK (2225).

Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is hosting two FREE Pain Management Seminars. Attendees will learn about innovative treatments and the latest technology.

Refreshments will be served. Seating is limited; call 281-274-7500 to register.

Wednesday, Nov. 3, Abraham Thomas, M.D., is presenting. Located in conference rooms A-D in the Main Pavilion of the hospital at 6 p.m.

Wednesday, Nov. 10, Cheryl White, M.D., is presenting. Located in medical office building 1, suite 410 at 6 p.m. H

The New Face of Triumph Hospital - Sugar Land Triumph Hospital - Sugar Land is raising the bar when it comes to customer service, technology and patient care, according to David Cross, chief executive officer, Triumph Hospital-Southwest in Sugar Land.

“We have made a number of changes in the hospital’s leadership, which has elevated the skill set and experience of the management team. We are bringing Triumph to a higher level not only in leadership but also in care for our patients.

These changes will continue to benefit our patients and the community as a whole,” Cross said.

The new staff members are Sandip Desai, M.D., Director of Pulmonology and Intensive Care; Gregory Burton, M.D. Director of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation; Faisal Khan, M.D., Director of Neurology Services; Viren Shah, M.D., Chief of Staff; Mark Murray M.D. Director of Pharmacy and Therapeutics; Johnson Agu, M.D., Director of Clinical Education and P. K. Shah, M.D., Vice Chief of Staff.

The Chief Clinical Officer, Roberta Consolver, who arrived from Hawaii, also joined Triumph in January 2010.

Cross is also new to the hospital, taking residence in the CEO’s office in September 2009. In his position, as part of the executive leadership team, he oversees the South group of Triumph, which includes Triumph Hospital Southwest, Triumph Hospital Town and Country and Triumph Hospital Central Houston.

Cross has over 20 years of healthcare experience as both a clinician and a leader.

He recently worked as the CEO/Michigan Area Director for Select Medical Corporation and his clinical leadership roles have included Director of Case Management for Integris Baptist Medical Center and Director of Nursing and Clinical Services for Select Specialty Hospital, both in Oklahoma City.

In his previous position as a corporate leader, Cross increased employee satisfaction, improved hospital quality and performance, and was very active in fundraising endeavors in the community. Cross’s primary focus and responsibility will be Triumph Hospital Southwest, in Sugar Land.

Both Cross and Consolver, the new comers to the area, have been impressed

with the manicured landscaping of Sugar Land, the friendly and gracious people and all the amenities.

“All of us who are new to Sugar Land have received a warm welcome and it is an honor to serve this community. We are looking forward to a long tenure, becoming more involved in area activities and getting to know our neighbors,” Cross said.

About Triumph “Triumph Hospital is a long term acute care hospital, which is a level of care many people are unfamiliar. We provide specialty care in many areas with state-of-the art equipment and technology, highly trained and experienced nursing teams and physicians and our patient care is second to none. We are also ranked in the top sector for wound care, respiratory and cardiac care and ICU,” Cross said.

Patients are referred to a Triumph Hospital for the continuation of acute medical care due to the severity and complexity of their condition precludes them from being accepted into a rehabilitation

Dr. Pankaj K. Shah, Vice Chief of Staff

Dr. Johnson Agu, Director of Clinical Education; Dr. Faisal Khan, Director of Neurology; Roberta Consolver, Chief Clinical Officer; Dr. Gregory Burton Director of Rehabilitation Services and David Cross, CEO.

hospital or a skilled nursing facility.

“Our location at 1550 First Colony Blvd is a perfect location not only for the community but in regards to working with the other well-respected hospitals in the community such as Memorial HermannSugar Land, Memorial Hermann Southwest, Methodist, Oak Bend, St. Luke’s and others,” Cross said. H

Hello, Fulshear H Simonton 2011/2012 NEWCOMER GUIDE AND VISITOR DIRECTORY

New Issue Coming April 2011

. . . n i e s i t r e v d A THE Official BOOK! (2010-2011 Issue)

Call for Advertising Rates

281-690-4242 Deadline to place an ad: March 4, 2011 (2009-2010 Issue)

www.fortbend

.com • November 2010

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M edical F ocus

Bullying…It’s More Than Sticks And Stones Keynote message November 13th, Care 2 Chat About Teen Health

Serenity Center for Depression Under the Direction of Dr. Kimberly Cress Serenity Center for Depression, under the direction of Dr. Kimberly Cress, now offers an innovative and effective treatment for depression. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Dr. Kimberly Cress was FDA approved for treatment of depression in October 2008. TMS is a safe alternative for those who have not found relief from other anti-depressant therapies or have experienced side effects from medications.

TMS uses a magnet similar in strength to the one in an MRI. It is placed on the left front portion of the head. This magnet turns on and off rap-

idly, generating a highly concentrated magnetic field. The pulsed magnetic field stimulates nerve cells within the area of the brain thought to control mood. When these nerve cells are activated, they release chemicals (neurotransmitters) that are naturally found in the brain, such as Serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. These are the same chemicals provided by anti-depressant medications, but with TMS, there is not the risk of side effects seen in anti-depressants. Individuals stop medication due to the side effects such as sexual dysfunction, weight gain, and nausea compared to little to no side effects with TMS. For more information, contact Serenity Center at myserenitycenter.com or 281-240-4322. H

Your Doctor, Your Special Care The choice of a medical provider for you and your family is one of the most important decisions to be made! South Texas Medical Clinics understands that a doctor’s reputation and quality of care is very important in making the right decision.

What do you need in a doctor – a doctor who listens and is responsive to your needs, a quality medical provider?

What’s important for you at a doctor’s office – good support staff, on-site laboratory and x-ray, convenient office hours?

All that is available and more at South Texas Medical Clinics, PA! Rosenberg’s STMC office is located just down the road from BF Terry High School and Brazos Town Center. Convenient Care opens at 7 a.m. and until 9 a.m., patients can walk in, without an appointment, to receive medical care for those minor inconveniences when you wake up - issues like colds, flu, or stomach problems. Convenient Care is also open on Saturday mornings from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Regular medical appointments with

the specialists are available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. We can take care of your entire family’s health care Dr. Karyn Cumberbatch needs from babies to adults.

Specialties at the Rosenberg office include: Family Practice, Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Gastroenterology, Nephrology, OB/Gyn, Orthopedic Surgery, Podiatry, Surgery and Urology.

STMC Rosenberg is located at 2520 BF Terry Blvd.(FM 2218), Rosenberg, 281-342-6006. South Texas Medical Clinics, PA is a five clinic, multi-specialty medical group, with over 50 providers caring for patients in Fort Bend, Wharton and Matagorda counties. Clinics are located in Rosenberg, Needville, Wharton, El Campo and Bay City. fort bend

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With bullying receiving so much media attention, don’t miss popular psychotherapist Mary Jo Rapini, LPC as she presents “Bullying…it’s More than Sticks and Stones” during the 3rd annual Mary Jo Rapini Care 2 Chat (C2C) About Teen Health on Saturday, Nov. 13. The event begins with early bird shopping and breakfast at 8 a.m. and ends at noon at the University of Houston System at Sugar Land.

C2C is a free, half-day health symposium featuring short, informational talks and inspirational messages for girls – ages 12-18 – and their mothers or other key women in their lives.

Rapini says bullying can lead to low self-esteem and other destructive behaviors and is more prevalent with today’s digital technologies. “Cyber attacks leave kids feel defeated, fearful and alone,” she said. “Young victims look to their parents and other adults in their lives for validation, appreciation and protection.”

Rapini will discuss the warning signs and what parents need to do if their child is being bullied. She will also talk about when your child is the bully, noting that children mimic bully behavior if they learn it from their parents and siblings.

C2C also features Erika D. Gentry, M.D., a family practice physician with Affinity Family Medicine, presenting “Happy to Be Me” and Kelli Burroughs, M.D., an OB/GYN presenting “OMG! My First Pap!” Beth Newman will present “First Style Fashionista,” a lively style show for teens of all ages. Another high energy session includes sisters Tina Pennington and Mandy Williams presenting their wit and wisdom in “Does Mother Always Know Best? Two Sisters Talk About Thinking Before Spending.”

C2C is sponsored by Memorial Hermann Sugar Land and Focus on Women Magazine.

Seating for Care 2 Chat is limited to 300 and fills quickly. The event is free, but pre-registration is required at 713.222.

CARE (2273). H

ATULATION R G N S! O C Brett Lazarine

Brett Lazarine, currently a student at Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas, receives $1,000 from Jessica DeMarr, Texas Direct Auto director of business development. Lazarine, a 2009 FBISD graduate, is in his first year at A&M and is working towards acceptance into the A&M School of Veterinarian Medicine. He was selected as part of Texas Direct Auto’s commitment to educational excellence through the “Scholarship Stars” program. Application details are listed below.

Register now and win a

1,000

$

SCHOLARSHIP! Find complete details and forms at

www.fortbendstar.com/scholarshipstar.doc

www.fortbend

.com • November 2010

89

FOCUS FAVORITES... Your Community Resource Guide Advertising Fort Bend Focus Magazine 281-640-4242 www.fortbendfocus.com lisa@fortbendfocus.com Fort Bend’s only feature magazine direct mailed to nearly 30,000 homes, subscribers and high value homes in Sugar Land, Richmond, Katy, Missouri City and Fulshear. Complimentary at on demand distribution locations throughout Fort Bend. Subscribe for free. (10/2010) Focus On Women Magazine 281-640-4242 www.fowmag.com lisa@fortbendfocus.com Finally, the magazine that you have been waiting for. A new publication showcasing one of the best and brightest resources – our women. Full of interesting, thought-provoking stories. Focus on Women is a celebration of today’s women – their lives, their passions and their spirit. Subscribe today. (10/2010)

Counseling DF Counseling Services 281-380-9518 www.dfcounselingservices dallaslpc@yahoo.com Change can be challenging. A positive outcome is the goal. I believe that a fulfilling life is complete with supportive relationships, feelings of selfworth, and continued personal growth. If you are struggling with some difficult life issues and need some helpful guidance, hire the Licensed Professional Counselor who is experienced, compassionate, and effective - Dallas Ferguson. Individuals, couples, and families are welcome. (11/2010)

Estate Planning and Probate Andreason Law Firm 281-265-1561 www.andreasonlawfirm.com kurtandreason@andreasonlawfirm.com With over 25 years experience in Texas, Kurt M. Andreason can meet your estate planning needs with everything from basic wills and disability planning documents to sophisticated estate planning strategies, including family limited partnerships, life insurance trusts and other recognized methods of estate tax reduction. Convenient Sugar Land location. Handicap Accessible. Board Certified in Estate Planning, Probate Law and Commercial Real Estate. Listed over 10 years in Best Lawyers in America. (11/2010)

Orthodontics

Home Remodeling & Construction Services Villa Construction & Remodeling 281-344-2732 www.villaconstruction.net cindy@villaconstruction.net Villa Construction and Remodeling recognizes the privilege that you extend to us in serving your home construction and remodeling needs. We offer a full range of quality products and professional services. We have served the communities in Sugar Land and Fort Bend County since 1991.

We are members of the Better Business Bureau and Texas Residential Construction Commission.

We accept credit cards and insurance claim work.

Please contact us for a free no obligation quote.

(11/2010)

Horseback Riding Sienna Stables 281-778-7433 www.siennastables.com The premier Southwest Houston area Equestrian Facility offers horseback riding lessons for youth and adults in both English or Western styles.

Other activities include kids’ camps, birthday parties, special events and therapeutic riding. For the horse owner, horses can be boarded and or trained by professionals. Sienna Stables also hosts many styles of horse shows. Nestled among centuriesold shade trees in Sienna Plantation this little slice of heaven is conveniently located in Fort Bend. (11/2010)

Jewelry Designs In Gems 713-995-7975 www.designsingems.com brucejsnider@hotmail.com Custom Designs - Hand Made Jewelry by Designs In Gems¨ 1984. “Distinctive originals redesigned from your sentimental existing gold and stones....

We make the next generation’s keepsakes.” Custom Jewelry Designer - Bruce J. Snider M.S., G.G.- GIA, NAJA. Gemological Laboratory Appraisals. Graduate Gemologist - Gemological Institute of America, Member: National Association of Jewelry Appraisers, Listed: Jewelers Board of Trade, Member: BBB. 16180 City Walk (Town Square - Sugar Land) by appointment. (11/2010)

Pisklak Orthodontics 281-403-5599 www.pisklakorthodontics.com info@pisklakorthodontics.com Carrie W. Pisklak, DDS, MS, is a respected provider of othodontic care in your community. Located in Missouri City, Texas, the practice’s top priority is to provide you the highest quality orthodontic care in a friendly, comfortable environment. Dr. Pisklak utilizes the latest technological advances, such as clear braces and Invisalign Teen, along with the latest in computer technology to ensure that you receive the most effective care possible. (10/2010

Printers / Graphics Star Printing 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com michael@fortbendstar.com Professionally designed and printed flyers, postcards, brochures, magazines, newspapers and catalogs with high-quality digital graphics. (10/2010)

Roofing Ameristar Roofing 281-238-4230 www.ameristarroofing.com ameristarroofing@gmail.com Ameristar Roofing is your full service roofing company, No job is too small or too big. We are a certified “Shingle Master Co” with Certainteed which authorizes us to offer 3, 4 & 5 star extended warranties. We are fully insured and bonded for your safety. At the end of every job we perform a QUALITY CONTROL INSPECTION. Our company belief is, THE CUSTOMER IS ALWAYS RIGHT. We want your recommendation because of our reputation! THANKS, JOE RANGEL, REUBEN STAFFORD & JOHN YATES, MANAGING PARTNERS. (10/2010)

Please call the experts from our list of Focus Favorites. fort bend

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Transportation The Original Trolley & Limousine Company 281-491-4911 www.originaltrolley.com otrolley@comcast.net The Original Trolley Company brings back a sense of nostalgia for groups who are looking for a truly unique transportation experience. The Trolley Company presently has three trolley cars ready for hire. The Trolleys are fully air conditioned and heated, mahogany trimmed, bar set up accommodations and have a trolley brass bell. Visit our website at www.originaltrolley.com to view our large gallery of photos. If a trolley is too large for your group we have added a 120 inch stretch Limousine. (10/2010)

Continuing our promise of staying focused on our community as we celebrate our

6

th

Year

Anniversary

Vacation Rio Raton Duplex 832-788-2294 www.rioratonduplex.com New Braunfels - Guadalupe Riverfront on River Rd. (outside New Braunfels city limits). First-Class riverfront duplex. Minutes to Schlitterbahn or tube the Guadalupe. Also convenient to Fiesta Texas, Sea World, Gruene Hall, Natural Bridge Cavern and Canyon Lake. 2 units available - each unit sleeps 8. See pictures and rates, and email your dates from webpage. (10/2010)

Video Production Star Video Digital Production Services 281-690-4280 Full-service video taping, editing and special effects for your business. Professional writing for commercials, training DVD’s, and corporate videos. (10/2010)

Do you have an area business service such as health, dental, finance, legal, insurance, remodeling, air conditioning, plumbing or auto service that you would like to have reach 60,000 readers in Fort Bend and increase the growth of your business?

Kudos to our readers, newsmakers and advertisers!

Magazine

Call 281-690-4242

www.FortBendFocus.com www.fortbend

.com • November 2010

91

MUCHAS GRACIAS FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS FOR YOUR SUPPORT THE PAST 6 YEARS!

Lupita’s

Mexican Restaurant

Join us for Happy Hour

Try our Lunch Specials

Monday - Thursday ALL DAY

Served

Fri., Sat. & Sun. 4 - 7:30 pm

Monday - Friday 11am - 3pm

Now Serving Angus Beef

281.265.6556 • 3121 Hwy. 6 S., Sugar Land, TX 77478

Focus on Flavor ANTONIA’S • Celebrating our 3rd Anniversary!

Come in and enjoy our wine and dinner specials and help us celebrate. Famous for our Awe-inspiring Hospitality and Great Food, our reputation is that we are a family oriented, family run business. This has been “Our Recipe For Success.” As we grow, we continue to stay close to our roots, always grateful for what we have, remembering where we came from.

Thank you, for choosing Antonia’s for your dining experience. We appreciate your business. Two locations: Antonia’s Cucina Italiana: 2001 Katy Mills Boulevard, Suite. A, Katy, Texas 77494, call 281-644-6000/Fax: 281-6446001. Antonia’s Italian Cantina: 26281 NW Freeway, Ste 950, Cypress, TX 77429, call 281-256-2796 / Fax: 281-256-2790. www.antonias.us.

ARISTOTLE GRILL • The Greeks have landed in Sugar Land! Owner Hamid Panah and his staff have just opened on the corner of Hwy 6 and Hwy 59 providing the best Greek dishes in the area!

Everything from appetizers to traditional Greek salads to plates specials and traditional Gyro sandwiches, this is the place for a nice, relaxed atmosphere and elegant Greek dining! Aristotle Grill also caters employee lunches, business meetings, and corporate gatherings. Their goal is to leave their guests impressed! Open 7 days, Sun-Thurs 11 am -9 pm, Fri-Sat 11 am -10 pm.

2109-B Highway 6 @ Highway 59 South, Sugar Land. 281-277-7787. fort bend

Dining Guide BLUE FISH HOUSE II – SUSHI & GRILL A Great Sushi, Great Hot Plates & Vegetarian Choices, Great Value, Fantastic Happy Hour Specials Best of Sushi by Citysearch 2010.

Enjoy life after work! We have a great selection of happy hour menu items served Monday through Saturday from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. It is a superb way to enjoy your favorites or try out new menu items all at great price.

For more information, call 281 295 0707 or www.bluefishhouse.com GREAT DOUBLE DEALS WITH HAPPY HOUR MENU. Buy 4 Rolls in Happy Hour Menu; get one free Appetizer or Salad or Soup or Drink ($3.50 Value). Sugar Land Location only. Exp 11/30/10

BULLPEN PIZZA & SPORTS BAR Patio is now open!!! All sports, UFC fights, pool tables, darts, golden tee, NASCAR, golf, free wi-fi, great food, awesome pizza, huge lake front patio.

Open Monday-Sunday, 11:00 am - 2:00 am (Food Until 1:00 am). Call 281-242-0190, located at 14019 SW Fwy, Suite 204, Sugar Land, TX 77478. For menu, please visit www.bullpenpizza.com.

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Old Hickory Inn Catering & Bar-B-Que

Serving Real Old Fashioned Bar-B-Que Since 1963 Holiday Feasts also available including sides and dessert.

PRE-ORDER YOUR

CAJUN FRIED or SMOKED TURKEY FOR THE HOLIDAYS CATERING & CUSTOM COOKING 3334 FM 1092 @ Hwy 6, Missouri City

281-499-8904 8000 Hwy 6 @Beechnut

281-983-5020 5427 S. Braeswood @ Chimney Rock

713-723-8908

Dining Guide

Focus on Flavor CUPCAKE CAFE • New Owner / New Pastry Chef. Come try our huge cupcakes!

We have new flavors as well as your traditional favorites. We also offer gourmet sandwiches, soups and salads, and we offer catering and make custom wedding cakes. We can fill that order for your next special event with our cakes and cupcakes. We are located at 16525 Lexington Blvd., Ste. 160, Sugar Land, TX 77479. Contact us by phone at 281-242-2744. Our hours are: 9:30 am - 7:00 pm Monday - Saturday. Closed Sunday.

DUMAR’S MEDITERRANEAN GRILL It’s a great new place serving middle eastern favorites with an outdoor patio and some of the friendliest service in town. The owner, Mr. Bashar F. Dumar and his wife, Ilham are natives of the Middle-East and make everything fresh daily. The Kebeh Balls, Hummus, Taboulih, Babaghanouj and Baklava. In addition to a full line of Middle-Eastern groceries, Dumar’s also features fresh feta cheeses, several types of brined Olives, Gyro Sandwiches, Greek Salads and Spinach pies. Now serving Beer & Wine.

Also, Party trays available. 4518 Hwy 6, Sugar Land. Mon-Thur 10am8:30pm and Fri-Sat 10am-9:00pm, 281-313-1893.

CHEF REY • Known for his amazing gourmet cheesecakes, Chef Rey is always professional and most importantly passionate about every dish he prepares.

He pays attention to every detail in preparing a mouth watering meal that is presented with style and class. His dedication is evident with every aspect of ensuring each customer is satisfied. Seeking a new spot that offers American Cuisine with professionalism and style together with an ambience that is exquisitely quaint and personal? Then visit Chef Rey’s, 2865 Dulles Avenue, Missouri City, TX 77459. Call 281-403-2900, visit www.chefreynolds. com. Open Thurs. 5-10, Fri-Sat. 5 -11 and Sun 10-4. Restaurant is available for private parties and catering. Gift Certificates available.

EXTREME PITA • We’re fast, fresh, fun and full of flavor. In addition, we’re EXTREME when it comes to our commitment to creating a unique product bursting with healthy ingredients. Lunch, dinner and late night menu items include our Extreme Club, Philly Cheese Steak, Grilled Chicken, Gyros and Falafel, all served with your choice of different vegetable varieties served fresh or sautéed to perfection right in front of your eyes. We also offer a variety of great tasting Flat Baked Pita’s, fresh salads, soups and drinks.

Mon-Thur: 11am-10pm, Fri-Sat: 11am-11pm, Sun: Noon-10pm, 15810 SW Frwy., Sugar Land, (Lake Pointe Village) TX 281-494-7482

www.fortbend

BUY ANY PITA & Get the Combo for FREE

.com • November 2010

93

J & L CAFE “Home of the Best Peach Cobbler in Texas”

BUY ONE MEAL, GET ONE HALF OFF

1110 Texas Parkway, Stafford, 77477 281.499.9895 OPEN TUES - SUN 11am -7pm WE OFFER CATERING MENU CHANGES DAILY, CALL US

Expires: 03/01/2011 Valid Tues - Sat Only Half off on lowest priced meal. Excludes Oxtail Meals.

Not valid with any other offer or specials.

Focus on Flavor

Dining Guide

ITALIAN MAID CAFE • ‘Where the locals go!’

Gourmet cuisine, priced affordably in the heart of Historic Downtown Richmond. Owners, Chef Alex Ciocca and sister Lanie Alvarez invite you to a unique dining experience. Try our delightful old world sauces over pasta, thick-crust pizza, zesty house salad dressings, flavorful soups, mouth watering desserts and of course, our great house wine. Perfect for business lunches or a romantic dinner. We serve nightly specials including creatively prepared fish, chicken and beef.

Pot Roast on Tuesday night. Located 2 blocks North of the Fort Bend County Courthouse on 300 Morton Street. Call for reservations or for more info at 281-344-8955 or 832-433-0032 for catering. www.italianmaidcafe.com.

KABOB CAFE • The warm and cozy Kabob Cafe is located at 4635 Hwy 6, corner of Dulles Ave in Sugar Land. We serve over 10 different Kabobs (wraps and entrees). Our Happy Lunch Hour is Monday - Thursday from 11am-2:30pm, Happy Munch Hour from 2:30pm to 5:00pm, and Family Nights with kids eat free on Mondays and Tuesdays. Check us out on Facebook for specials, and our website, TXkabobcafe.com, for menu and directions. 281-903-7373.

J & L CAFÉ • “Home of the Best Peach Cobbler in Texas” located at 1110 Texas Parkway in Stafford. Serving a homestyle menu that changes daily! Open Tuesday - Sunday 11am-7pm. Call us for our changing menu, 281-499-9895.

KARL’S AT THE RIVERBEND • Offering romantic dining overlooking the water, Swiss Chef Karl Camenzind serves a wide variety of delicious cuisine including venison, Angus beef, fresh fish and wienerschitzel. Enjoy discounted fare on Tuesdays and Thursdays with the Neighborhood Menu featuring entrees under $11. And don’t miss the best Sunday brunch in town, including over 50 items served buffet style and featuring eggs benedict and carved roast beef. Reservations suggested, but not required. Tu-Th 5-9pm, Fri & Sat 5-10pm & Sunday 11:30am-2pm. 5011 FM 723, Richmond, TX. 281-238-9300.

BUY ONE MEAL, GET A LESSER ONE FOR HALF OFF

Excludes meals $9.95 & up, not valid on Sundays or with other offers. Present this coupon. Exp. 06/3/2011 fort bend

Buy one entrée and get the second one

50 % OFF

Second entrée is equal or less value. Not valid with other offers.

magazine • November 2010

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Dining Guide

Focus on Flavor

Fort Bend Loves To Dine List your restaurant here. Call 281-690-4242.

FERNANDO’S RESTAURANT Celebrating 6 years in Sugar Land. Expect the unexpected! DINE AND DANCE ON WEEKENDS (FRIDAY AND SATURDAY) LIVE MUSIC. Look for new menu items, new events and new hours. Come celebrate with Fernando and join his VIP list at 14135 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land. For reservations call 281-4949087. Closed on Sundays. Visit www.fernandosrestaurants.com.

NAPA GRILLE URBAN WINE BAR Combines a warm, cozy atmosphere, excellent wine variety and an exceptional cuisine to provide the ultimate dining experience. Now open and serving lunch & dinner in Sugar Land, just off 59 and Sugar Creek. Come join us for Happy Hour from 4-7pm. Enjoy live music Tuesday - Saturday nights. Napa Grille Urban Wine Bar is also available for private parties. Mon-Fri 11am-11pm Sat 5pm-11pm. 14019 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land, TX. Call 281-277-2599. For full menu and daily specials visit www.napagrille.net.

LA COCINA • Is proud to be serving the Fort Bend Community fine Mexican dishes for 13 years. Since our beginning in Rosenberg in 1997, quality and value has been our motto. At La Cocina we understand that to be successful in the food and beverage business, we have to execute a great product and a great dining experience as well as contribute and support our county. We are proud to say that we have raised over $60,000 for “Meals on Wheels.” We invite you to come try our wonderful and exciting new dishes. Call La Cocina for your next event, to-go or catering is available or reserve our banquet room for any occasion. Don’t miss our Breakfast Sat & Sun 8-12, Happy Hour 11-7 pm. 515 FM 359 in Richmond, 281-238-0872 www.lacocinarestaurant.com.

OLD HICKORY INN BARBECUE • More than 40 years in business in the Houston and Fort Bend area, Old Hickory Inn Barbecue is famous for their Old Fashion Hickory Smoked Barbecue and numerous Homemade Side Dishes, made fresh daily.

3 convenient locations, with a drive-through window at the Hwy 6 location. Open 7 days a week, SundayThursday from 11am-9pm, and Friday & Saturday 11am-9:30pm. 3334 F.M. 1092 @ Hwy 6 Missouri City 281-499-8904 / 8000 Hwy 6 @ Beechnut 281983-5020 / 5427 S. Braeswood @ Chimney Rock 713-723-8908.

LA MAGIA CAFE & PIZZA • If you are looking for casual dinning with an easy atmosphere then La Magia is just the place for you! La Magia Café & Pizza recipes and menu are based on almost 30 years of Italian cooking. The dishes served at La Magia are prepared and cooked in the traditional Italian way, using fresh ingredients and herbs, giving them a home cooked flavor since 1980. In addition to authentic Italian cooking, La Magia offers popular American dishes. The pizzas are made with medium crust and cooked in a stone oven. This cooking process gives the dough a slow rise, for a true pizza flavor. All meals are prepared with extra virgin olive oil and the freshest ingredients and herbs. Open 7 days, Sun-Thurs 11 am -9 pm, Fri-Sat 11 am -10 pm. Lunch menu specials Mon – Fri. 3699 Highway 6 @ Settlers Way Blvd, Sugar Land. 281-565-0366.

RAISING CANE’S • We’re all about ONE LOVE - chicken fingers. Our simple menu focuses on fresh, never frozen chicken tenders, warm, buttery Texas toast, creamy coleslaw and crinkle cut French fries. Our legendary Cane’s sauce is made in-house daily and provides the perfect compliment to our cooked-to-order chicken fingers. Don’t forget a cup of our freshly squeezed lemonade or freshly brewed sweet tea for the road. What are ya...chicken? 1529 HWY 6 in Sugar Land. Sun-Thurs: 10:30am-10:00pm, Fri-Sat: 10:30am-12:00am, Phone: 281-980-9860. Stay connected with us on twitter.com/CanesSugarLand & facebook.com/CanesSugarLand.

LUPITAS MEXICAN RESTAURANT • Jaime and Lupe Garcia and son, Leo Rigo, have been serving homemade traditional Mexican food to the community for 6 years. Lupitas is open 7 days a week with over twenty lunch specials Monday through Friday. Don’t miss Happy Hour Monday-Thursday with $2 Domestic Beer, $2.50 Imported Beer and $3.50 Margaritas! Lupitas is now serving Angus Beef. Hours are Sunday-Thursday 11am-9pm and Friday-Saturday 11am-10pm.

281-265-6556, 3121 Highway 6, near the Williams Trace intersection. Muchas Gracias from our family to yours for your support the past 6 years! www.fortbend

RAY’S GOURMET COUNTRY •

A unique concept of a neighborhood bar and grill with a “field to table” menu specializing in recipes made from the highest quality of seasonal and organic inspired ingredients. Daily Specials and menu selections are created based on the local availability of organic fruits and vegetables, Natural Select meats and wild game and seafood. All seafood is purchased direct and filleted in-house to ensure the freshest quality. The restaurant and bar are available for private parties and a catering menu. Located at 8502 FM 359, Fulshear, TX 77441. Call 281-533-0099, www.raysgrill.com.

.com • November 2010

95

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

Living the Sweet Life:

Like Father like Daughter

O

n the way to New York City, I watched the movie, “How to Train Your Dragon.” I highly recommend it. It is a story about a boy who desperately wants to be like his father, in this case, a warrior Viking, and cannot kill a dragon. Despite this, he creates a devise to trap one and actually does trap the most feared dragon in all the land. However, when he tries to kill it he cannot and so, he discovers how to train it. He finds that everything he believed he wanted to be is false and in finding himself, he also gains the respect of his father in his own way. I’ll not spoil the details more than that but you should see it.

Appropriately, I remember being a little girl, and my own father was a surgeon. He would go to the hospital and see patients. He would deliver babies and everywhere we went in our small town, be it school, church or shopping, we never left without seeing someone he knew. I was very proud to be his daughter, and when the time came to go to school and learn stuff, I was pretty disappointed to discover that I really did not do well in math and science, and further, would get very sick and light-headed at the sight of blood. Despite this, I pursued other things and as all children do, sought his unwavering approval.

The year my father died, I was pregnant with James Edward, and although I had started the studio, I had not gained the success in my photography that I enjoy today. I had not been featured on television nor had I created the Art and Medicine projects for breast cancer and childhood cancers. I had pretty much just begun, and he never saw these things with me.

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital named a Labor and Delivery room after me last week. I cut blue and pink ribbons draping over a doorway to the largest room on the floor. They handed me surgical scissors just like the ones my Daddy had used to cut umbilical cords with. It was a joyous moment, and a very

Alisa, along with her children Victoria Ann and James Edward, cuts the ribbon on the Alisa Murray Labor and Delivery Room at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital.

enlightening one as well. I had finally “made it” in my own mind. The approval of those at that hospital of my work as an artist to name something after me that after I die will still be named after me was a very big deal. Bigger still the fact that I have made it my own life’s work to create and capture newborns and pregnant women, and I was being honored in such a way that was poignant and touching and meant a lot to me. I was reminded of two things. How I had tried to gain my daddy’s approval all those years, and after making the choice to do what I love and not what I could do to make the most money had paid off. I had found a way to do almost the same thing. Who I am is legitimate and similar to him except I did not have to get into medical school or see blood (ick) or have to pay malpractice insurance (I’m laughing)! Many people who have interviewed me over the years have drawn similarities to my choices of my subjects in my work and to the fact that my father was an OBGYN. I saw the similarities mostly as coincidental, but now, I am not so sure.... it pays to turn 40! Lot’s of reflection..... blah blah blah.....

It is cool though, I must admit and yes, of course Daddy had influence. What parent cannot have influence on their children? fort bend

magazine • November 2010

96

The second, and probably most telling, was while I was at the reception, I began referencing a special plaque that hangs in the lobby at Carolina Medical Center in Monroe, North Carolina. There, in the small hallway, is a tribute to a man who gave his entire life to delivering babies in Union County. It is small, and unless you are passing down that hall, you would never even know it is there. It was not given until after he died and only his children could attend the ceremony. Want to guess who was honored on that plaque?

Yep, my Daddy.

It goes without saying that I know he’s proud of me, and while I am still here, I wanted to let you know how blessed I am to be honored by such a lovely hospital and how proud I am of a sweet little OBGYN now looking down on me from heaven.

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