PEOPLE
•
PLA C E S
•
H A P P E N I N G S
OCTOBER 2010
Mary Favre
Speaks Candidly: My Journey with Cancer What’s Inside
• Focus on the Cure • Seen on the Scene • Community Calendar $
2.95
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID DALLAS, TX PERMIT NO 2337
Sienna PLantation is opening the doors to new possibilities with our WeLcome Home tour. our WeLcome Home tour features open homes for you to enjoy every weekend from oCT. 1-NoV. 1. Come see all that Sienna PLantation has to offer with a vast array of amenities perfectly suited for Fort Bend County’s premier master-planned community, along with a collection of Houston’s finest homebuilders. Experience the NEW Sienna with our NEW Builders, NEW Models, NEW Values, NEW Schools and the NEW Sienna lagoon Waterpark. it’s just our way of saying WeLcome Home.
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don’t Miss
THE GRAND SOIREE TheGrandSoiree.com
Greenway
Downtown
Galleria Med Center
Fort Bend Parkway
from the $170s-Millions Live WeLL. PLay Hard. Have Fun.
DR Horton . Pulte . Meritage . Triumph . Highland . Ashton Ashton Woods .. Trendmaker Coventry . DR HortonWoods . Fairmont Custom Homes . Highland Newmark . Coventry . Plantation . Perry . RylandHomes . J Kyle. Estate . Regan Huntington J Kyle Homes Estate Homes . Meritage . Newmark . Northstone Builders Partners in Building . Homes Perry . Plantation . Pulte . Regan Custom Homes Custom Homes . Fairmont Custom Homes . Huntington . Northstone Builders Ryland . Sterling Classic Custom Homes . Trendmaker . Triumph . Westport Sterling Classic Custom Homes . Westport
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THE GRAND SOIREE
10 EVENTS
THE GRAND SOIREE
All Homes
Sept.25-Oct.27
Indulge in jewelry, dining, shopping,T! art & parties!!
SOLD OUT
FF EVEN KICK OCouture for the Cause benefiting American Cancer Society Sienna Plantation Resort Lagoon Sat., Sept. 25 l 8pm l $100
!
Internationally Renowned 3D Chalk Artist: Tracy Lee Stum in Riverstone Oct. 6-8 l Watch Her Work l $5 Oct. 9-17 l View Masterpiece l $5
Artful Living with Neiman Marcus in Riverstone Special Guest Tracy Lee Stum Fri., Oct. 8 l 7pm l $75
Fort Bend Goes to the Fall Design Market
Houston Design Center Wed., Oct. 13 l 9:30am-1:30pm Bus Tours l $40
Vineyard Style
Special Guest: Torie Halbert, Season 4 of HGTV’s Design Star Fri., Oct. 15 l 11:30am-1:30pm l $40
International Risotto Festival Houston Design Center Sun., Oct. 17 l 2-6pm l $65
Art Gallery Showing with Kathy Womack in Riverstone Mon., Oct. 18 l 4-6pm l $15
Homes in every price range, and one that’s just right for you!
Women & Wine art dinner with Kathy Womack
Aura Restaurant Mon., Oct. 18 l 6:30pm l $75
Fire & Ice
Post Oak Grill—Sugar Land Thurs., Oct. 21 l 6:30pm l $150
Mix It Up at the M Lounge
Bartender’s Challenge Wed., Oct. 27 l 6:30pm l $40
Dr Horton
6022 Pomme Bay Pass $184,090 • 1,644 sq. ft. 3/2/2
pulte Homes
Dr Horton
6018 Pomme Bay Pass $195,690 • 1,810 sq. ft. 3/2/2
rylanD Homes
7142 BreTon Bay Pass $230,400 • 2,572 sq. ft. 4/3/2
7023 BaiTland drive $234,900 • 1,969 sq. ft. 3/2/2
rylanD Homes
triumpH Homes
6218 mCallisTer drive $279,900 • 2,700 sq. ft. 4/2.5/2
asHton WooDs Homes 11310 red BluFF Turn $317,000 • 3,207 sq. ft. 4/3/2
triumpH Homes
7103 BrewsTer lane $338,665 • 3,864 sq. ft. 5/4/2.5
7119 BrewsTer $289,890 • 2,843 sq. ft. 4/3/2.5
pulte Homes
8206 Thunder ridge way $324,540 • 3,357 sq. ft. 4/3.5/3
pulte Homes
7115 BrewsTer lane $340,470 • 3,693 sq. ft. 4/3.5/3
Dr Horton
7138 BreTon Bay Pass $212,990 • 2,428 sq. ft. 3/2/2
pulte Homes
rylanD Homes
7118 sTevenson drive $218,000 • 2,304 sq. ft. 4/2/2
pulte Homes
7118 BreTon Bay Pass $237,070 • 2,714 sq. ft. 4/2.5/2
6011 Bridgeside lane $239,560 • 2,709 sq. ft. 5/3/2
meritage Homes
plantation Homes
10518 ginger glen $311,362 • 3,400 sq. ft. 4/3.5/2
pulte Homes
7023 BrewsTer lane $327,440 • 3,544 sq. ft. 4/3.5/3
HigHlanD Homes
3318 sunseT Field lane $391,990 • 3,859 sq. ft. 5/4/2
3503 Carmine glen $315,123 • 3,275 sq. ft. 5/3.5/2
plantation Homes
10523 heriTage Trail $329,000 • 3,275 sq. ft. 5/3.5/2.5
meritage Homes
6243 drayTon hall $394,490 • 4,629 sq. ft. 5/4.5/2.5
trenDmaKer Homes
3210 BeaCon heighTs $404,176 • 3,450 sq. ft. 4/3.5/3
trenDmaKer Homes
9206 Balsam gaP $438,873 • 4,246 sq. ft. 4/3.5/3
trenDmaKer Homes
9230 Balsam gaP $419,824 • 3,655 sq. ft. 4/3.5/3
neWmarK Homes
3015 road runner walk $439,990 • 4,363 sq. ft. 4/3.5/2
neWmarK Homes
3022 road runner walk $428,725 • 4,508 sq. ft. 5/3.5/3
trenDmaKer Homes
9226 Balsam gaP $432,095 • 4,057 sq. ft. 4/3.5/3
HigHlanD Homes
3210 sT. Charles CourT $549,990 • 3,865 sq. ft. 5/4/2
WELCOME HOME TOUR
OCT. 1-NOV. 1
8 Breathtaking Custom Homes
Huntington Homes
J Kyle estate Homes
J Kyle estate Homes 14 ComBwell garden $640,671 • 5,147 sq. ft. 5/4/3
101 Big Trail CirCle $779,990 • 5,362 sq. ft. 5/4.5/3
Westport Homes
J Kyle estate Homes
Fairmont Homes
Huntington Homes
22 waTers lake $599,990 • 4,517 sq. ft. 5/3.5/3
10 Tayside TraCk $849,000 • 5,320 sq. ft. 5/5.5/3
5 ComBwell garden $623,629 • 4,948 sq. ft. 5/4.5/3
107 Big Trail CirCle $868,207 • 5,389 sq. ft. 5/4/3 www.fortbend
42 Big Trail
$890,000 • 4,715 sq. ft. 4/4.5/3 .com • October 2010
1
Huntington Homes
68 Big Trail $1,300,000 • 4,906 sq. ft. 5/4.5/3
Treat yourself to the gift of good health. At OakBend Medical Center, we believe that one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself is the gift of good health. That’s why we encourage women to pamper themselves—and their health—by practicing regular self-breast exams and scheduling annual physicals and mammograms.
A special gift from OakBend & Spa 3-5-9 In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, every patient who receives a mammogram during October will receive a special discount at Spa 3-5-9 PLUS be entered to win a facial gift certificate and a basket of skin care products. To schedule your exam, please call (281) 341-4817.
fort bend
magazine • October 2010
2
AW AR EN ES S
Compounding Corner ® Pharmacy, Inc. THE ONLY ACCREDITED COMPOUNDING PHARMACY IN FORT BEND
The FIRST compounding-only pharmacy in Fort Bend County. The FIRST (and only) accredited compounding pharmacy in Fort Bend County. The FIRST compounding pharmacy you should do business with. Please see us for all your compounding needs including: • Compounded prescriptions • Office use compounds • Supplements - Thorne, Metagenics, Phytopharmica, Enzymatic Process, etc. • Wellness consultations • Consultations specializing in cancer including diet, supplements and stress modification We take quality and safety seriously. Year to date we have already spent over $20,000 in testing for potency, sterility and endotoxins. Has your compounding pharmacy ever done any testing of their products? Ask to see their testing results. We’ll show you ours.
281-494-7777 • 1730 Williams Trace, Ste. K, Sugar Land www.fortbend
.com • October 2010
3
www.fortbend
.com • October 2010
5
GM
Finnegan
CHRYSLER
AUTO GROUP
FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED GARY FINNEGAN
VINCE FINNEGAN
gfinnegan@finneganauto.com
vfinnegan@finneganauto.com
Come see us for all of your automotive needs – Sales, Service, Parts, Collision.
FRANK TREVINO GM Sales Manager
RANDY BOWMAN General Sales Manager
ftrevino@finneganauto.com
rbowman@finneganauto.com
JIM COOK GM Parts Manager
RICHARD OLIVER Parts Manager
jcook@finneganauto.com
roliver@finneganauto.com
AL GOMEZ GM Service Manager
GLORIA CRUZ-SANCHEZ Service Manager
agomez@finneganauto.com
gsanchez@finneganauto.com
Fridays at Finnegan
Excludes corvettes, synthetic oils and Diesels
JEFF DAVIS Chrysler & GM Parts & Service Director
jdavis@finneganauto.com
General Motors: 281.342.4200 Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge: 281.342.9318
GREG PAGANS Body Shop Manager
jpagans@finneganauto.com
Come Join The Fun At
The St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital Fall Festival Celebrating Our Second Anniversary
October 9, 2010 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Radio Disney with fun activities planned playing Radio Disney hits, interacting with kids and bringing the fun. Participants can register to win an “Extreme Halloween Makeover!”
Pointe Pkwy. Lake
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. ngton Blvd exi Hwy .6
. lvd
wy .
Brooks St.
Cree
Flu
B ce Tra
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The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center will offer patient education
or
Dr.
lli Wi
Explore the Texas Children’s Kangaroo Crew ambulance especially for kids
kbend Dr.
Dr.
Face painting and fun hairdos
es
Amusements for kids including a 22” giant slide, rock wall, bouncer, bawl crawl, sports challenge and other fun games
Sug ar L ak Creekway Dr.
Parents Health Check
1317 Lake Pointe Parkway • Sugar Land, TX 77478 • StLukesSugarLand.com
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features 38 Alisa Murray’s Parisian Exhibit “Doors to Heaven” Debuts at Amici
Renowned portrait artist Alisa Murray shares images and experiences from exploring the beauty and intrigue of the world famous Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris.
41 Focus on the Cure
From detection through recovery and even breast reconstruction, this section offers vital information every woman needs in breast cancer education.
58 The Grand Soiree: A Collection of Stylish Events
Created by the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, patrons are invited to experience this showcase of fashion and art while indulging in shopping, dining and artistry.
62 Music Duo Turns Their Dream into Reality Sugar Land natives Bruce Kalmick and Ricky Brown turn their passion for music and entertainment into a successful and continually growing management group, Ambiance Artists.
86 Music, Magic and Halloween Fun with the Fort Bend Symphony
The Fort Bend Symphony opens their season with magic and mystery as they showcase selections from popular films at this family friendly event which features a costume contest for all ages.
fort bend
magazine • October 2010
8
Ladies, Are You Ready for the Holidays?
image © 2008 www.alisamurray.com
Shelena C. Lalji MD Medical Director
National Trainer and Speaker for Lasers, Wellness, Botox and Fillers
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1437 HIGHWAY 6 • SUGAR LAND, TEXAS 77478
Learn to Look Your BEST with Dr. Shel • October 20th 5:30- 7:30 pm COME ENJOY AN EVENING TO LEARN DR. SHEL’S TIPS AND TRICKS TO LOOK YOUR BEST FOR THE HOLIDAYS. BRING YOUR FRIENDS FOR GREAT GIVEAWAYS! RSVP TO RSVP@DRSHEL.COM
COVER STORY 18 Breast Cancer Survivor Mary Favre Reflects on Her Journey
departments
Faced with her own mortality, Mary Favre found the strength to battle and triumph over breast cancer by focusing on life after the disease. More than fifteen years later, her journey continues as a survivor and volunteer.
23 Fort Bend Headliners 24 Caring for the Community 26 Focus on Finance 28 Seen on the Scene 34 High School Hot Shot 54 Focus on Health 56 Community Calendar 68 Focus Cares 72 Fort Bend New Neighbor 80 Focus Film Review 90 Focus Scrapbook 91 Focus Photo Winner 95 Focus Reader’s Photo Album 96 Medical Focus 102 Fort Bend Kids Chalkboard 104 Business Buzz 105 Focus Favorites - NEW!!!
Mary Favre, armed with her camera, is always ready to volunteer for the next community event.
108 Focus on Flavor Dining Guide 112 Living the Sweet Life
fort bend
magazine • October 2010
10
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P
ublisher’s Preview www.fortbendfocus.com
October 2010 Vol. 6 No. 12
Hello Fort Bend Friends, As I write this and we complete another successful year of JEWELS of Fort Bend, it still amazes me just how generous Fort Bend County residents really are. You will not want to miss next year’s Fort Bend Focus magazine honors the JEWELS of Fort Bend. This October is breast cancer awareness, and once again, we feature a resident that has triumphed over cancer. Mary Favre speaks candidly about her fight and how she helps her community in the process. Our “Focus on the Cure” section lets residents of Fort Bend County know that you no longer have to venture into downtown for the finest, cutting edge cancer treatments. Fort Bend has everything you need to take excellent care of you or your loved one battling cancer of any kind. Michael & Lisa Fredrickson with their children at the 2005 Komen Race. In continuing her tradition of supporting Breast Cancer Awareness, this October 2010, Lisa is racing again, this time together with her team from Focus Magazines.
4655 Techniplex Dr. Suite 400 Stafford, TX 77477 To advertise call
281-690-4242
TOLL FREE 1-888-430-7469 Lisa Fredrickson welcomes Patti Parish-Kaminski as the new Managing Editor of Fort Bend Focus and Pearland Focus magazines.
October has so many fun things happening, starting off with the ARTernative Festival on Saturday, October 4th. The Grand Soiree debuts on October 6th with a month long collection of ten stylish events featuring fashion, art, food and fun. You can preview the rest of the month’s activities starting on page 56. This month marks the end of our sixth year at Fort Bend Focus magazine. We have grown so much not just in size but in the community, so we just had to expand our reach as well. We are so pleased to announce Patti Parish-Kaminski as our Managing Editor for both Fort Bend Focus and Pearland Focus magazines. Welcome Patti, we are so excited to have you on board. Stay Focused!
Lisa Fredrickson
Lisa@Fortbendfocus.com
READERS FEEDBACK
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 SeNIor ACCoUNt eXeCUtIve Jessica Kij ACCoUNt eXeCUtIveS Dena Perry April Lambert 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
Thankful for Focus coverage... Hi Lisa, So much of our interaction is via email so I wanted to bring you a personal thank. Thank you for all your help in supporting the Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra as well as Memorial Hermann SL. Community awareness & ticket sales are higher for FBSO because of Focus coverage. With deepest thanks! Nancy Mills Cystic Fibrosis is off and running! Lisa, The Sears are kicking off their CF fundraising season. We’re happy to announce all OUR hard work is paying off. Just a few months ago a new antibiotic discovered with the funds raised by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. (We do our own research as not to get tied up in government regulating.) This new drug got rid of Taylor’s Pseudomonas in one month....He’s had it for three years!!! It also only takes 2 MINUTES to inhale vs. 40 MINUTES....that’s forever to an 11 year old boy. I wanted to thank you personally for your help. Cherry Sears fort fortbend bend
GrAPhIC DeSIGNer Elizabeth Pace WeB DeSIGNer Joey Belleza (JOBpagegraphics.com)
Receive our next issue!
oN the Cover
Mary Favre Cover Photo:
AlisA MurrAy PhotogrAPhy
Subscribe at: www.FOWmag.com
Focus on Women Magazine is a proud sponsor of this year’s KOMEN RACE FOR THE CURE.
magazine magazine••October October 2010
12
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
www.fortbend
.com • October 2010
13
281-206-4482
The Imperial Medical Center Land, TX 77478 1111 Hwy Hwy 6, 6,Suite Suite185 185• Sugar • Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.fortbend
www.cashionandcody.com www.cashionandcodyonline.com
.com • July 2008
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T
TEXIAN MARKET DAYS GROWS AS TEXAS DIRECT AUTO SIGNS ON AS MAJOR SPONSOR
he 27th annual Texian Market Days are scheduled for October 23, 2010 and a new major sponsor for the event is Texas Direct Auto! This familyfriendly living history festival is the perfect setting for the nation’s largest independent car dealership to partner with the Fort Bend community in reliving its proud heritage. Texian Market Days documents various historical events for southeast Texas including lifestyles of the Fort Bend County area dating back to the 1830’s. Texas Direct Auto, conducting business in Fort Bend County since 2003, may not have the long-storied history being reenacted by volunteers during the event, but they have established themselves as the nation’s largest independent car dealership! Education among students is a vital asset of the community and portions of the proceeds from the event are dedicated to educational programs offered yearround by the Fort Bend Museum. Texas Direct Auto Director of Business Development Jessica DeMarr stated, “In our system of marketing, we’ve proven that it takes a commitment to excellence in order to achieve our corporate goals, so assisting students in achieving their educational goals creates a win-win for them and the community. We’re proud to be a part of their growth!”
With a mission to educate, entertain and inspire, Texian Market Days is a combination of historical reenactments about the colorful history of southeast Texas and is coordinated by the Fort Bend County Museum Association. Not only is the festival fun for visitors, a Civil War camp and battle reenactments are staged by volunteers. Other events include historic home tours, archeological digs, food and live entertainment. “The Fort Bend County Museum Association is deeply grateful for the generous support of Texas Direct Auto as the ‘Presenting Sponsor’ of Texian Market Days,” added Candace Jones, Executive Director of the Fort Bend County Museum Association. “Funds raised during this festival support our year round educational programs and preservation efforts. We are very proud that Texas Direct Auto recognizes the importance of our mission, and we commend them for their outstanding legacy of community support.” The event will be held at the 480-acre George Ranch Historical Park located at 10215 FM 762 in Richmond, Texas. The park is divided into four clearly-defined historical sites and loosely follows these eras: 1830’s Jones stock farm, 1860’s Ryon prairie home, 1890’s Davis Victorian mansion, and a 1930’s George cattle complex.
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
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fort bend
magazine • October 2010
16
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3
Big events Coming toRiveRstone
Tracy Lee Stum
Kathy Womack
Oct. 6-17
Oct. 18
3D Chalk Artist
Women & Wine Artist
11am-4pm • $5
in Riverstone 4pm-6pm • $15
October 6-8:Watch Tracy Create October 9-17:View the Masterpiece
Art Gallery Showing
Aura Restaurant • 6:30pm • $75 Women and Wine Dinner
Artful Living in Riverstone with
Oct. 8
7pm • $75 • special guest—Tracy Lee Stum
Downtown
Tickets Available at TheGrandSoiree.com
Galleria
610 Med Center
8
com
en
dP k wy
8
t. B
59
Williams Trace Blvd.
6
F
From US 59 in Sugar Land, take Hwy 6 south 3 miles
Luxurious Waterside Living in Fort Bend
don’t Miss
THE GRAND SOIREE TheGrandSoiree.com
Ashton Woods . Bayou Bend . Christopher Sims Custom Homes . Coventry . Darling . David Weekley . Highland . Meritage Newmark . Perry . Peterson Homebuilders . Plantation . Sterling Classic Homes . Trendmaker . Westin . Westport
COVER STORY
| By Melinda Wood
Pink Lady
Breast Cancer Survivor Mary Favre Reflects on Her Cancer Journey
G
rowing up, Mary Favre’s mother always told her, “Life begins at 40.” Little did she know how oddly true that statement would be for Mary. In August of 1993, Mary found what every woman fears she will one day discover – a lump in her breast. Concerned, she scheduled an appointment with her gynecologist who after examining her, told her it was most likely a cyst and to take Vitamin E. Mary turned 40 in October that year and was looking forward to the upcoming holiday season. Newly engaged, Mary put her fears behind her for a while and enjoyed the holidays with her fiancé Carl. “During the holidays, Carl and I became officially engaged,” Mary shared. “We had a wonderful Christmas. In January, I went back to the doctor knowing something was wrong. She examined me and quietly left the room. She did not return. The nurse came in and gave a referral to me for a surgeon and told me that I needed to call him right away.” Mary called him immediately and scheduled an appointment.
“During that initial examination, I was told that he would attempt an aspiration. If that should fail, I would need a biopsy,” Mary said. “Well, I needed a biopsy. It was scheduled for that Friday.” “Directly before being wheeled into the operating room, they took me to the radiologist who would place a marker where the doctor would perform the biopsy. This was like a road map for the surgeon. After placing the marker, which was a painful procedure, he announced that I did have cancer.” Mary didn’t hear much after that. “I felt the blood drain from my face and felt like I was going into shock.” She went home and shared the news with Carl and the rest of her family. The following Monday, Mary called the surgeon and asked to see him. “After a physical examination, he told me that I did indeed have cancer and that I would need another surgery,” Mary recalled. “He then took a phone call and made his dinner plans. I walked out and asked Jesus to help me get to the elevator.” Taken aback by the surgeon’s apathetic bedside manner, Mary went fort bend
magazine • October 2010
18
Carl and Mary when they first met.
Mary urges patients today to not let cancer define them. “It’s a disease. It is more survivable and manageable with each passing decade.”
The Favre’s wedding day - July 9, 1994.
home feeling dejected. She instantly called Carl. “Of course I called Carl who then called his dear friend, Cassie, who immediately put things into high gear,” Mary said. “She had experienced breast cancer two years prior. She got me a new surgeon who placed me in capable hands with an oncologist who became the quarterback of my medical team.” With her new surgeon in place, Mary went through a second surgery. After her recovery, Mary began her “dreaded” chemotherapy treatments. “I managed initially not knowing that therapy would have a cumulative affect,” Mary reflected. “In fact after the second treatment, I went skiing. That’s where I left my hair — in the Rockies!” When she came back from her skiing trip, Mary refused to let her cancer stop her from living life. As her uncle says, “To live is to adjust.” And, that’s exactly what Mary did. “I came back intent on planning our wedding,” Mary said. “I do remember that Carl was also experiencing shock, and in fact, some people were surprised that we were going to still get married.” Continued on page 20
Photo by Alisa Murray www.fortbend
.com • October 2010
19
Continued from page 19 During this time of mixed emotions, Mary started to notice that Carl didn’t seem himself and began to worry that he too was not in the best of health. “Somewhere after my third treatment, I urged Carl to get a physical,” said Mary. “Would you believe that he too would be diagnosed with cancer? Our initial response to this shock was numbness. Of course the jokes went something like ‘what water are y’all drinking?’ Yet, through it all, our family, church family, friends and co-workers were very supportive. Carl had surgery followed by radiation.” Despite Mary’s chemotherapy and Carl’s radiation, the pair was still determined to walk down the aisle and exchange vows. “As I was nearly finished with my chemotherapy, the wedding invitations went out and then my good doctor decided I was not able to take another round without delaying it for a week,” Mary said. “My counts were miserable. Heck, I was miserable. I had anticipatory nausea, and I was begging him to let me have my chemo. I insisted that the wedding was going to take place with a week left for me to recover!”
Carl, Mary and Zoe.
Mary with Kelli Metzenthin, Development Director, Child Advocate of Fort Bend.
Looking back, Mary knows how frightening that time in her life was. “Cancer is a considered by many to be a dream robber,” she said. “For a while, it was hard to imagine what it would be like to grow old together, to experience all things on our wish list, but we realized that this was also a gift to live life for today, yet plan for tomorrow. I wondered if I would see my daughter marry, and today we are raising Zoe, our granddaughter.” She continued, “God revealed to us His plans for our lives and His timing is perfect. We were given so many gifts and our experiences made us aware of our response would be to give back.” Mary urges patients today to not let cancer define them. “It’s a disease. It is more survivable and manageable with each passing decade.” She also encourages patients to take charge of their health care and treatment plans especially since her initial experience was very difficult. “That first round of care I experienced sounds like something that happens in rural America, but it was here in our very own medical center in Houston,” she said. “I wondered how many others had experienced something similar?
Photo by Brenda Perry
On July 9, 1994, Mary and Carl were married just six months after her diagnosis. “Carl finished radiation treatment, I finished chemotherapy and we were married on time,” Mary said. “We would later joke because shortly after our abbreviated honeymoon, I landed in the hospital recovering from a lousy undiagnosed fever, but Carl promised to take me on a honeymoon for every anniversary thereafter. He’s kept that promise.” The happy couple soon became cancer-free and began their life together. “We experienced this dreaded disease together,” Mary shared. “We survived when several thought we wouldn’t. We thanked God for our blessings and the gift of faith. We also believe that cancer gives back. We accepted the gift of recognizing our personal mortality. We accept the gift of clarity, which has enabled us to prioritize and live life more fully and allow us to have a keener sense of compassion and double dose of realities.” fort bend
Mary with Wende Lewis-Buckley, President, Fort Bend Rainbow Room.
magazine • October 2010
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Continued from page 20
My initial mammogram was not a certified place, my gynecologist was not board certified, and my surgeon seemed to want to perform two surgeries and was not the one who informed me of my diagnosis!” She went on to say, “I suggest that anyone who has a health issue to keep a log of your doctors, medical tests and health records. Keep someone with you while you are in the hospital, keep on accepting assistance from family and friends and accept that we are all frail – no matter if it is a physical or mental or spiritual situation or crisis.” Mary also strongly believes in giving back to the community and with Carl, has volunteered throughout Fort Bend. “After healing and starting our life together, Carl and I volunteered to support people who experience a diagnosis of cancer,” Mary said. “We were trained and matched up with people who were recently diagnosed with our type of cancer. We also supported the local cancer fun runs and the golf tournaments as well as other charity events.”
Irene Wisner, Mike McGrath, Debra Marfin, Fred and Mabel R. Parks Foundation; Bill Rohrbach; Dick Hogan, President; Mark Eyring; Mary Favre, Favre Foundation; Jim Kij and Kolbe Curtice at the groundbreaking for the Parks Youth Ranch.
Mary served as the photographer for Fort Bend Cares “Road Trip to Key West.”
A photographer, Mary also assists charities in the Fort Bend area by donating her services. She has taken well over 100,000 pictures. She has taken pictures for Child Advocates, Asians Against Domestic Abuse, Fort Bend Literacy, Fort Bend Cares, Fort Bend Education Foundation, The Monarch School, Pink Ladies Golf Tournament, Parks Youth Ranch, Rainbow Room, Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation, Salute to Fort Bend, Volunteer Fort Bend and Youth in Philanthropy, and many more. When she does shoot pictures for a for-profit, she donates the funds to her favorite charity. Recently, her good friend, Brenda Perry, has joined her in donating time, energy and effort in assisting charities of Fort Bend County. Her camera has taken places she never dreamed before including a picture with First Lady Laura Bush and dinner with Governor Rick Perry. Throughout her cancer experience, Mary kept a positive outlook on life. After all, just as Mary’s mother said many years ago, life begins at 40! FBF
After healing and starting our life together, Carl and I volunteered to support people who experience a diagnosis of cancer. ~ Mary
Mary photographed the 2010 CASA Gala where they celebrated “The Wizard of Oz.”
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magazine • October 2010
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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.
The Art League of Fort Bend Plans Grand Opening of New Art Gallery The Art League of Fort Bend is celebrating the opening of the Fifth Street Gallery Saturday, October 9th from 6:30 pm until 8:00 pm. Fifth Street Gallery is located in the Gates Fine Arts Center at 2205 Avenue I in Rosenberg with the entrance on 5th Street. The public is invited to attend and wine and food will be served. The A Touch of Brass brass quintet will provide music. The Art League of Fort Bend (ALFB) is an organization of artists and art lovers of Fort Bend County formally located at the Morton Street Gallery in Richmond. Members of the League represent artists from across Fort Bend County. Some artists are professionals and may be represented by other galleries, some are winners of state and national awards, some are teachers while others are students. The gallery’s exhibits will change throughout the year. The Fifth Street Gallery will be open weekdays from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm except for holidays. Much of the exhibited work is for sale. Prospective buyers should contact the artist with information attached to the art in the gallery space. The ALFB office, also located in the Gates Fine Art Center, is often open during the week as local artists gather to work, teach critique and socialize. Visitors are welcome.
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TACLB27392E www.fortbend
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Care 2 Chat
About Teen Health Information, inspiration and insights for teen girls, 12 to 18, and their moms Saturday, Nov. 13, 2010 8 a.m. to noon UH System at Sugar Land 14000 University Blvd. at Highway 59
Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital
Caring for the Community Care 2 Chat provides relaxed setting to explore teen health
Nurse practitioner Janine Sherman and psychotherapist Mary Jo Rapini will present “Start Talking” and Rapini will present “Bullying…It’s More than Sticks and Stones.”
I Erika Gentry, M.D. “Happy to Be Me”
Kelli Burroughs, M.D. “OMG! My First Pap”
Sisters, Red and Black “Open Your Eyes Before Your Wallet”
Beth Newman “First Style Fashionista” Presented by Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital
Free event, but preregistration required at 713.222.CARE (2273). Seating limited to 300.
nformation, inspiration and insights await teen girls, ages 12 to 18, and their mothers during the 3rd annual Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital Care 2 Chat (C2C) About Teen Health on Saturday, Nov. 13. The free 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. Erika D. Gentry, M.D., a family practice physician with Affinity Family Medicine, will present “Happy to Be Me.” Her goal is to help girls understand their body mass index (BMI) and how factors like body fat and muscle mass can present a different picture of health than the mirror shows. “Someone may look thin but have more fat than muscle,” said Dr. Gentry. “You can’t always tell by looking at someone if they’re healthy.” Dr. Gentry wants to encourage teens to adopt healthy eating habits and activity levels so their BMI numbers fall within normal ranges. Teen girls will have an opportunity to obtain their BMI from the Memorial Hermann Wellness Center during the event. C2C also features Kelli Burroughs, M.D., an obstetrician-gynecologist with Sweetwater OB/GYN, presenting “OMG! My First Pap.” She recommends women have their first Pap test within three fort bend
magazine • October 2010
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years after their first sexual intercourse or age 21, whichever comes first. In addition to explaining the wellwoman visit, Dr. Burroughs will talk about sexually transmitted diseases and preventing them through abstinence. “Teen girls should have happy memories of many of their firsts, like a car or prom, not a sad first memory like a sexually transmitted disease,” she said. Other speakers include Beth Newman who will present “First Style Fashionista,” a lively style show for teens of all ages. Another high-energy session addresses personal finances as the witty Red & Black Sisters present “Open Your Eyes Before Your Wallet.” Psychotherapist Mary Jo Rapini and nurse practitioner Janine Sherman will share ideas from the book they co-authored about improving motherdaughter communication. Rapini will end C2C with “Bullying…it’s More than Sticks and Stones,” as she discusses the warning signs of a bullied child. She will also address when your child is the bully, noting that children mimic bully behavior if they learn it from their parents and siblings. Seating for Care 2 Chat is limited to 300 and fills quickly. The event is free, but preregistration is required at 713.222. CARE (2273). ★ Advertorial
Headliners continued from page 23
Presenting Sponsor Jim McClellan of the Fred and Mabel R. Parks Foundation, Neighborhood Chair Ann Malone, and Child Advocates of Fort Bend Event Marketing Specialist Irene Wisner. Photo by Mary Favre.
Child Advocates of Fort Bend Gathering Forces Committee members, decorators and sponsors are gearing up for the 19th Annual CASA Christmas Home Tour. A Fort Bend holiday tradition, the Tour offers guests the opportunity to view six beautifully decorated homes in Fort Bend County, while helping to raise much-needed funds to support CAFB’s programs serving abused and neglected children. This year’s tour will feature homes in First Colony, Riverstone and Lakes of Williams Ranch. Guests at this year’s CASA Christmas Home Tour will be dazzled by some of the most exquisite holiday décor and home designs, entertained by area talents, treated to homemade cookies and hot apple cider – all by purchasing one ticket. Tickets will go on sale starting November 1 - $15 presale; $20 day of the event. For more information on tickets or the Home Tour, go to www.cafb.org. If you are interested in making a difference in the life of an abused child by sponsoring this festive holiday event, please contact Kelli Metzenthin at 281-344-5106. For other information, contact Irene Wisner at 281-344-5108. Proceeds from the Christmas Home Tour help Child Advocates of Fort Bend (CAFB) advocate for the needs of abused and neglected children in this community. Headliners continued on page 36 www.fortbend
.com • October 2010
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on
Finance
Provided by RBC Wealth Management and H. H. “Will” Hardee
Surviving a Financial Crisis Due to Illness
W
hen you get sick and can’t work or can work only on a reduced schedule, it’s likely that your biggest worry apart from your health is how you will survive financially. This is particularly worrisome to people who are single, people who are the primary breadwinners for their family, and people who expect to recover slowly from their illnesses. It’s hard to know sometimes how long your illness will last even though statistically, most disabling illnesses or injuries last less than 12 months. That’s still a long time to survive financially if you can’t work. The key to staying afloat financially when you’re sick is to take advantage of all the sources of income available to you and to cut expenses where possible. Sources of Income Disability Benefits Many people think of disabilities as crippling injuries. However, disabilities can also be caused by illness (both physical and mental). Basically, any illness or injury that lasts a certain amount of time and limits your ability to work and earn income may potentially be considered a disability, at least for insurance purposes. You may be eligible to receive disability benefits from a group disability insurance policy through your employer, an association, or lending institution; through an individual disability insurance policy; or from a government benefit program. If you are entitled to benefits, however, don’t expect them to completely replace your lost earnings; most disability benefit programs aim to replace only 50-70 % of your pre-disability gross earnings. Workers’ compensation Every state has workers’ compensation laws designed to pay benefits to workers who
are disabled as a result of work-related illnesses or injuries. An accidental injury is a compensable injury only if your job was the source of the injury and the injury occurred during the course of employment. An illness is considered work-related only if it qualifies as an occupational disease. To qualify as occupational, the illness must result from employment and be caused by conditions specific to that employment or occupation. If your injury or illness is not work related, you can’t receive workers’ compensation benefits, and you’ll have to seek other sources of disability income. Check with your employer regarding your state laws if you think you may be entitled to disability benefits under workers’ compensation. Social Security Disability Benefits Two programs administered by the Social Security Administration pay disability benefits. The Social Security disability insurance program pays benefits to qualified individuals who are under age 65, regardless of income. The other program, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), pays benefits to qualified individuals who are either over age 65 or blind or disabled and who have limited income. Neither program covers partial disability; both programs strictly define disability. The impairment must prevent you from earning a substantial income, must be medically determined, and must last or be expected to last 12 months or more, or result in your death. Like other Social Security benefits, disability benefits are based on your Social Security earnings record. Tip: If you are entitled to receive Social Security disability benefits, you may eventually be entitled to receive Medicare benefits if your disability is long-lasting. If you are eli-
gible to receive benefits under SSI, you may be entitled to receive Medicaid benefits. Other government disability benefit programs If you are an active-duty service member, a disabled veteran, an employee of the federal, state, or local government or if you reside in certain states (for example, California, Hawaii, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, or Puerto Rico) you may be covered by a government-sponsored disability benefit program. Disability benefits from individual or group disability insurance policies If you were employed when you became ill or you own an individual or group association disability policy, you may be able to receive disability benefit payments. If you are covered by an employer-sponsored plan, you should have received a certificate of coverage from your employer and you may be paying part of the premium cost. However, it’s wise to check with your employer just in case. If you are covered by an individual or group association disability policy, file a claim right away with your insurance company. To make sure you and your family are financially prepared, contact The Hardee Investment Group today. You may call 713853-0869, click HardeeInvestmentGroup. com, or listen live every Thursday from 11 a.m. to noon on Talk 650 AM. We look forward to hearing from you! Let us introduce our financial family to your family. 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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Go to www.FortBendFocus.com Pictures are available online for this month only, download now. Compliments of Fort Bend FOCUS.
21st Annual Fort Bend County Fair & Rodeo Style Show
Benefiting Youth and Education in Fort Bend County Saturday, August 28, 2010 • Safari Texas Ranch, Richmond
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Fair Queen Candidates
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Go to www.FortBendFocus.com Pictures are available online for this month only, download now. Compliments of Fort Bend FOCUS.
Red, White and Blue Jean Bash
West Fort Bend Women’s Charity Benefiting Helping A Hero Saturday, September 4, 2010• Swinging Door Dance Hall • Richmond, Texas
Michael & Denise Herrera
Richard & Karen McCarter
Glenn Ward & Julie Laskoskie
Andreas Novoa & Rachael El-Saadi
Linda Hancock & Tim Kaminski
Terri & Jess Stuart
Denise Herrera & Alicia Casias
Justin Perryman & Kate Diehl
Freddie & Laurie Landaverde with Matt & Kellie Farmer
Helping A Hero Check Presentation
James & Sandra Zequeira
Bert & Dusty Skoruppa
Pat & County Judge Bob Hebert
Susan Cannata & Janice Gillen
Kim & Jimmy Bates
Gary Pearson & Robert Engelbrecht
Jane & Robby Stockton
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Seen
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Scene
Go to www.FortBendFocus.com Pictures are available online for this month only, download now. Compliments of Fort Bend FOCUS.
Sugar Land Town Square - The Catwalk on City Walk
Benefiting the Fort Bend County Women’s Center Thursday, September 9, 2010• Sugar Land Town Square
Cathy Ebeck, Michelle Wohlwend & Liz Molgren
Les & Ann Newton
Cherie Bauch, Marisa Stahl & Mercedes Pilegge
Sandy Lamb & Pam Spencer
Heather Callison, Carolyn Gilgen & Jennifer Pace
Yolanda Green, Thedrial Jackson, Teresa Preza & Jigynay Patel
Dawn Renee & Diane Kennedy
Steve & Julie Ewbank
Channing & Serrena Adams with Haley, Calmar & Jaden
Karen Daniels & Janice Stanford
Jared Jamison & Stuart Rimes
Arnold Vaquez, Sami Shbeeb & Starling Sanchez
Pooja Sammeta & Summer Elliott
Kathy Thompson & Zooks Campbell
Arnetta Yardbrough & Robin Alston
Shannon Bloesch & Shayne Newell
Thedrial Jackson & Grace Kubecka
Roni Carter, Lynell Decker, Murial Martins & Kellen Holthausen
Sheila Skipper & Annette Bain
for some Family Fun! let the Fall Festivities Begin. Taste of Town Square
Saturday, October 9 • 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. We’re kicking off Restaurant Week! Come enjoy a special tasting event and live concert, featuring the Ezra Charles Texas Blues Band, in the Plaza. concert SponSored by david taylor cadillac buick GMc
Restaurant Week at Sugar Land Town Square Sunday, October 10 - Saturday, October 16 • Amici • Escalante’s Fine Tex Mex • Fish City Grill • Japaneiro’s Sushi Bistro & Latin Grill • Olives Martini Bar & Grille
Sit down to a three-course meal from participating Sugar Land Town Square’s restaurants for just $25, and $5 from each meal will go directly to Fort Bend Junior Service League. Additionally, 1905 Pizza Bar, Baker Street Pub & Grill and Shogi Hibachi Express will offer special family packages during the week.
Pumpkin Decorating Workshop Friday, October 15 • 5:00 - 7:00 pm
Pick out your very own pumpkin to decorate from the Plaza Pumpkin Patch courtesy of Whole Foods Market. Limited to the first 400 children.
• Shiva Indian Restaurant • Taisho Japanese Bar & Bistro • The Rouxpour • Vineyard on the Square Wine Bar & Bistro
Halloween Town preSented by the city of SuGar land
Saturday, October 30 • 4:00 - 8:00 pm Free games, entertainment and pounds of candy for trick-or-treaters!
Sign up for our newsletter and follow us on
&
SLTownSquare
For more information visit SugarLandTownSquare.com 10SLTS253_Fall Focus Ad_7.25x9.75.indd 1
www.fortbend
.com • October 2010
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9/9/10 4:39:47 PM
High School HOT SHOT
By Melinda Wood
Facing the Music
A
s an aspiring musician, Kempner High School senior Nathan De Jesus sings every chance he gets. Nathan, the 2009 winner of Sugar Land Superstar, participates in high school’s choir and also sings at his church. As president of the men’s choir at Kempner High School, Nathan devotes much of his time to the organization and is glad to do it. “I have been singing since I was little, and it is something I love to do and that I hope I can make a career out of,” Nathan said. “I love the fact that in choir and theatre no matter who you are or where you come from, you’re accepted. You become one big family.” Nathan started singing at a young age and remembers singing at his church every Sunday growing up through an organization called Kid Jam. Now, Nathan has many proud moments to look back on including his big win at Sugar Land Super Star in 2009. “My favorite memory of all time would have to be winning Sugar Land Superstar in 2009,” Nathan said. “I had never done a competition that big and winning just made that year incredibly fun and amazing with all the opportunities that came after winning.” As involved with music as Nathan is, he also stays busy serving as student council president for District 13. Nathan says that being elected to the position is one of his proudest moments.
n a h t a N
With all of these commitments, Nathan works hard to balance his time. “High school has proven to be very tough on both my school life and my personal life,” Nathan starts. “I make sure my schoolwork is done because education is very important. I also make time to hang out with my family and friends. I mean, I am just a kid, and you really can’t stress yourself out too much.” When he’s not singing, studying or serving in student council, Nathan has plenty of hobbies to occupy his free time. “In my spare time I like to hang out with my friends,” Nathan says. “I like to write music. I like to listen to music. I love singing with my best friends Kelli Valdez and Alisha Pace. I like to go to sports games and cheer my school on. I like to
hang out with my family. I like going to the beach, playing sports, and dancing.” Through it all, Nathan credits his parents as his inspiration. “[My parents] have worked so hard to provide for my sister and I, and they have shown that hard work pays off.” Nathan said. “They are always behind me in everything I do cheering me on. They brought me into this world and have raised me to become the person I will be today and in the future.” As for the future, Nathan is beginning his college search. “I definitely want to go to college, because like my mom says, you never know, God could take that voice, but if you go to college you will have something to go back on,” Nathan said. “I want to go to Texas A&M and study nursing there. Another option is I want to go to Prairie View A&M to get a minor in music engineering and major in the nursing field. If the opportunity arose for me to become a famous singer, I would definitely take that opportunity. I could see me making music for all my years because it is something I love to do.” But for now, Nathan is concentrating on his senior year. Nathan shares, “I am looking forward to making my senior year one of the best years I have had at Kempner High School.” H
“I definitely want to go to college, because like my mom says, you never know, God could take that voice, but if you go to college you will have something to go back on,” Nathan said. fort bend
magazine • October 2010
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STRENGTHENING
a winning team! Dr. Mark Maffet joins Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas The team at Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas (MOST) welcomes another all-star! Board-certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Mark Maffet brings in-depth expertise and skill in a wide range of sports medicine specialties to his new position on the MOST staff. Dr. Maffet is a leader in knee and shoulder arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery, with a long history of helping athletes of all levels return to full health following injury or illness. Don’t live with the pain. See Dr. Maffet – or one of the other board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic specialists at MOST – and get back in the action!
Call 281-494-MOST (6678) for a personal appointment today.
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Headliners continued from page 25
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The BalletForte Guild invites you to celebrate the magic of the holiday season at the 11th annual Clara’s Nutcracker Tea. In a beautiful holiday setting, watch the story of The Nutcracker come to life. Enjoy delectable treats from the Kingdom of Sweets, have your picture taken on Clara’s throne and collect autographs from the beautifully costumed cast members. Join Clara and the cast for this magical event on December 5th, 2010, from 3 to 5 pm at Safari Texas Ranch, located at 11627 FM 1464 Richmond, Texas 77469. Tickets are $28.00 each and are available by calling 281-7997554. 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.
Headliners continued on page 40 fort bend
magazine • October 2010
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Alisa Murray’s Parisian Exhibit “Doors to Heaven” Debuts at Amici
From Alisa Murray’s original exhibit “Doors to Heaven” shot at Pére Lachaise Cemetery in Paris, France, this limited edition photograph depicts an ancient door from a family tomb. “Doors to Heaven” is on exhibit at Amici located in Sugar Land’s Town Square.
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ationally renowned portrait artist and photographer Alisa Murray has captured the beauty and intrigue of one of the world’s most famous cemeteries with her photography exhibit “Doors to Heaven” featured at Amici in Sugar Land now through December 31st, 2010. Murray, one of Texas’ most sought after portrait artists, traveled to the Pére Lachaise Cemetery in Paris, France where many well-known artists are laid to rest including Fredric Chopin, Gertrude Stein, Oscar Wilde and perhaps the cemetery’s most famous resident – the late Jim Morrison of The Doors’ fame. Murray, mesmerized by the delicate details of the centuries old doors to many of the tombs, was inspired to capture the uniqueness of the art. “Artistically speaking, I knew that there was probably only a few, if even a handful, of artisans that would have been talented enough to make these very special doors,” said Murray. Murray’s interpretation of the doors is as unique as the individual pieces. “I was amazed that in each door, there was a hot spot mostly in the center to the top of each space. I began researching the actual cemetery and found that unlike here, the graves at Pére Lachaise are actually a mass grave for each family as they are placed together in a continuous grave. This means that each grave has many
Jeff Vallone and Bruce McMillian of Amici with artist Alisa Murray as the debut of the “Doors to Heaven” exhibit is installed at their restaurant. “Doors to Heaven” is on exhibit at Amici located in Sugar Land’s Town Square through December 31st, 2010.
persons buried there and the finding of some energy in those spaces is by no means unusual, at least not by my way of interpreting the universe.” Murray chose to interpret the images through a colored filter that allowed her to capture the art, as well as the spirit, of the ancient artifacts. The exhibit contains 54 pieces, and the artist’s first release of ten pieces are on currently on exhibit at Amici located at 16089 City Walk in Sugar Land’s Town Square now through December 31st, 2010. While Murray’s adaptation of the historical treasures of Pére Lachaise focused on the tomb doors, other images of the cemetery are included in the exhibit including two monument statues entitled “Angels are Waiting” and “Angels are Offering.” Murray’s interpretation of the symbolism of the ancient artifacts is conveyed in her one-of-a-kind exhibit. “The doors represent our lives,” said Murray. “Each of us has a door that leads us to the path we are to follow. The doors beckon us to seek and find our path.” The photographs in “Doors to Heaven” are each a limited edition of 250 signed by the artist and are framed and matted fort bend
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with an image size of 11” x 14”. The prints are available for purchase for $175 by contacting Alisa Murray Studios. Additional pieces from “Doors to Heaven” will be on exhibit in the greater Houston area next year. For more information on Alisa Murray or “Doors to Heaven,” contact Murray at www. alisamurray.com or 713.598.2207. About Alisa Murray Nationally renowned for her innovative style capturing newborns and expectant mothers, portrait artist Alisa Murray has become one of Texas’ most sought after photographers. Her artistic portraits are in essence snapshots of her subject’s spirit and have been featured on numerous magazine covers, in her nationally distributed calendars, Hope and Inspiration: Surviving Mothers of Breast Cancer and Small Miracles, and now, in the book, Always Hope, a collection of inspirational stories featuring portraits by Murray published in 2010. Murray is also an award-winning columnist for her original Living the Sweet Life column that is featured monthly in Fort Bend Focus Magazine, and her photographs have been featured in Texas Monthly, Modern Luxury and Popular Photography. Annually, her work is featured on the covers of six Houston area magazines. Murray lives with her husband, Brian, and children, Victoria Ann and James Edward in Fort Bend County. H
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The Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) and presenting sponsor Sterling McCall are pleased to announce that The Fred and Mabel R. Parks Youth Ranch has been selected as the beneficiary for the League’s 2011 Charity Ball scheduled for March 2011. Parks Youth Ranch will open its doors to homeless and at-risk youth in Fort Bend County early this fall. Located in Fairchilds, the 20-bed shelter will provide temporary housing for boys and girls between the ages of 13 and 17. In addition, the George Counseling Center will provide therapeutic services to children ages 10 to 17 and their families at the ranch. Referrals will come from the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, Fort Bend County Juvenile Probation and local school districts. Proceeds from the 2011 Charity Ball will be used to convert an existing barn into a recreation center. Mark your calendar for Saturday, March 5, 2011, when the 2011 Charity Ball ~ Vintage Vegas will return to the Sugar Land Marriott Town Square. For more information, please email charityball@fbjsl.com or call 281-6366272.
Headliners continued on page 61
October is
Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Educate yourself and your loved ones about awareness and detection. Learn about treatment options available in our community.
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FOCUS ON THE CURE Expertise & technology sets Methodist Breast Center apart
“We take a very active role in patient care,” says Dr. Phillips. “We spend a good deal of time talking with – and listening to – our patients, because it helps them understand not only the tests we are performing, but also the options of care that are available to them if necessary.” “We take a lead role in working with the patient’s referring physician should there be a need for additional testing or diagnosis. This level of care and coordination means that a patient can undergo a mammogram and, if necessary, an ultrasound or MRI often on the same day, pending insurance approval.”
A special thank you to the Fort Bend Junior Service League members who are the faces of our Women’s Health Campaign.
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ethodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Breast Center offers women a lifesaving difference. With renowned breast radiologists, the latest in technology and a patientcentric focus on personal care and communication, the Breast Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is a valuable community resource that is unmatched in Fort Bend County. Choose wisely At the Breast Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, a multi-disciplinary, highly skilled team of breast care specialists provides the most comprehensive and compassionate diagnostic and therapeutic service possible, all in one comfortable, convenient setting. This means that women undergoing an annual screening can have confidence that Methodist breast radiologists – devoted full-time to breast imaging – have the expertise to properly evaluate their results. And for those women who need further testing and follow-up, there is comfort in knowing that their care will be provided quickly, conveniently and most importantly, effectively – with a focus on communication and emotional support.
Expertise makes the difference At many other facilities, staff radiologists are responsible for everything from mammograms to broken bones. But not at the Breast Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. Dr. Stephen Phillips and Dr. Correna Terrell – world-class breast imaging specialists – are devoted full-time to breast care. These two physicians have extensive experience in breast imaging and they share a patient-centric, communications-based approach to their care. Dr. Phillips joined Methodist Sugar Land Hospital from the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. He is boardcertified in diagnostic radiology and fellowship trained in breast imaging and intervention. He is a Fellow in the American College of Radiology and has a long history of teaching, researching and writing for medical journals on breast radiology. Dr. Terrell is board-certified in diagnostic radiology. She served a fouryear residency at Cleveland Clinic in diagnostic radiology and breast imaging and was chief of breast imaging at Wilford Hall Medical Center in San Antonio, the U.S. Air Force’s largest medical facility. fort bend
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Technology plays a key role In addition to top-quality physicians, the Breast Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital also employs the most sophisticated technology, including: • Digital mammography • Breast MRI • Diagnostic ultrasound • MRI-guided biopsy • Ultrasound biopsy • Stereotactic biopsy When there is cancer In the event of a cancer diagnosis, patients have direct access to Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Cancer Center. Methodist Sugar Land Cancer Center provides a wide range of treatment options, including high-dose radiation (HDR) brachytherapy, which reduces the time needed for treatment to five days rather than six weeks. In addition, patients have access to skilled breast surgeons, oncologists and reconstructive surgeons on staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, who work closely with the breast care team to ensure continuity of care. Find out more Your annual mammogram is an important screening tool. And it does make a difference where you have it done. To learn more about the Breast Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, or to schedule an appointment, call 281-242-PINK (7465).
FOCUS ON THE CURE Are You at Risk for Breast Cancer?
Shelena C. Lalji, M.D. Medical Director
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id you know that simply being a woman and getting older puts you at risk for breast cancer? Dr. Shel is a supporter of the American Cancer Society and strives to educate her patients each day about the risks that can trigger breast cancer as well as healthy changes to lower their possible risk. The National Cancer Institute estimates that, based on current rates, 13.2% of women born today will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some time in their lives. Even though extensive research and studies have been conducted, it is difficult to pinpoint the exact causes of breast cancer since they can vary from patient to patient. Research has shown that women with certain risk factors are more likely than others to develop breast cancer. Some of these risk factors are as follows: • Personal history of breast cancer: A woman who had breast cancer in one breast has an increased risk of getting cancer in her other breast. • Family history: A woman’s risk of breast cancer is higher if her mother, sister, or daughter had breast cancer. The risk is higher if her family member got breast cancer before age 40. • Certain breast changes: Having certain types of abnormal cells (atypical hyperplasia and lobular carcinoma in situ [LCIS]) increases the risk of breast cancer.
• Gene changes: Changes in certain genes increase the risk of breast cancer. These genes include BRCA1, BRCA2, and others. Gene testing can sometimes show the presence of specific gene changes in families with many women who have had breast cancer. NCI offers publications on gene testing. • Reproductive and menstrual history: The older a woman is when she has her first child, the greater her chance of breast cancer. Women who never had children are at an increased risk of breast cancer. • Race: Breast cancer is diagnosed more often in white women than Latina, Asian, or African American women. • Being overweight or obese after menopause: The chance of getting breast cancer after menopause is higher in women who are overweight or obese.
• Drinking alcohol: Studies suggest that the more alcohol a woman drinks, the greater her risk of breast cancer. Other possible risk factors are constantly being studied such as: the effect of diet, physical activity, stress, and the effect of certain substances in the environment to help women lower their risk. Not all risk factors such as family history and genetic predisposition can be eliminated, but many can be reduced if women are properly educated. Dr. Shel has always been an advocate for yearly mammograms (starting at age 35 to determine a baseline) along with reducing your risk by promoting a healthy diet and ideal weight, exercising, maintaining balanced hormones, and reducing stress from your life. Call Dr. Shel today to schedule your complimentary wellness consultation so she can help you live your healthiest life possible, 281-313-7435, www. drshel.com.
Dr. Shel with patient Cynthia Von Tessmar.
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FOCUS ON THE CURE Mammograms: Saving Lives at Every Age
Anne Kushwaha, M.D. Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital
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he best apple pie recipe. Your prized heirloom teapot. You’ve gotten a lot from the older women in your family. Give back to them by sharing advice that could lengthen their lives: Encourage them to keep getting mammograms. “A woman’s risk for breast cancer increases with age and is highest after she reaches age 60,” says Anne Kushwaha, M.D., a breast radiologist affiliated with Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital. “By age 80, one out of 24 women will have been diagnosed with the disease.” Women at any age who do not get regular screenings are more likely to have larger tumors and later-stage cancer by the time the disease is detected. “Healthy women should continue to get screened for breast cancer every year into their 80s and beyond,” says Dr. Kushwaha. Get the Conversation Started Need a hand convincing mom or grandma to make an appointment? Try these tips:
• Help her find a doctor who will talk openly about mammograms. Studies show that a doctor’s orders hold the most sway with older women. • Remind her that money isn’t an object. Medicare pays for most of the cost of one mammogram per year for all women ages 62 and older. High-Tech Breast Imaging, Close to Home The Memorial Hermann Southwest Breast Care Center offers several advantages over conventional screening facilities, including specially trained, board-certified breast radiologists to read your mammogram, the latest technologies and techniques for diagnosis, and short wait times for appointments. These advantages ensure accurate results and reduce patient anxiety when a suspicious area is found. Dedicated Breast Radiologists Traditionally, general radiologists read breast mammograms. The Memorial Hermann Southwest Breast Care Center uses only board-certified breast radiologists specially trained to read your mammogram and perform breast procedures. Their experience and expertise brings patients the highest quality of care available in southwest Houston. Stay up-to-date on your breast health. Talk with your doctor about an annual mammogram. To schedule your mammogram at Memorial Hermann Southwest, call 713.456.4584.
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FOCUS ON THE CURE Breast Cancer Screening Essential for Women
Jamie Elizabeth Terry, M.D. Texas Oncology–Sugar Land
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ver the past decade, news and information about breast cancer has helped increase overall awareness about the disease tremendously. Every October, the color pink adorns everything from ribbons to household items. While awareness of breast cancer has improved, it unfortunately remains the seconddeadliest cancer among American women. Early detection stands as the single most effective way to combat the disease. As physicians, we know that the earlier we can detect breast cancer, the more likely the patient will survive. When detected early before it spreads, women have a 98-percent survival rate after five years. While this all may sound very simple, in my own practice at Texas Oncology–Sugar Land, I see many women with more advanced stages of breast cancer. It is estimated that this year alone, 359 women in Fort Bend County will be diagnosed with breast cancer, and 62 women will die from the disease. Many of these deaths are preventable with yearly mammograms, especially for women over the age of 40. However, a National Health Interview Survey found that women age 40 and over getting mammograms actually declined from 70.1 percent to 66.4 percent from 2000 to 2005. While mammograms will detect 80-90 percent of breast cancer in women who don’t have symptoms,
they are not the only way to detect the signs of breast cancer. Women can screen themselves for signs of breast cancer through monthly breast self-exams, which they should begin to administer in their 20s. Any irregularities or concerns that are detected should immediately be reported to a physician. Clinical breast exams are recommended for women in their 20s and 30s every three years and every year for women over 40 for the early detection of breast cancer. Finding breast cancer in early, more treatable stages leads to higher survival rates. Screening is especially important for women who have increased risk factors for breast cancer. However, it is important to remember that even women without clear risk factors should have regular screenings and mammograms. Risk factors may include: • Age: Approximately two-thirds of breast cancers occur in women over age 55, though it can occur at any age. • Family history: If a woman’s mother, sister, or grandmother had the disease, that woman potentially has an increased risk for breast cancer. • Race: Breast cancer is the most common cancer and leading cause of cancer death in Hispanic women. Hispanic women are more likely to be diagnosed with late-stage and larger tumors, and more likely to die of breast cancer than white women. • Weight: An unhealthy body weight increases your risk for breast cancer. While screenings may detect cancer early on, it’s also important to watch out for warning signs and symptoms, including: www.fortbend
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• Change in breast size or shape • A lump or thickening in the breast • Swelling, warmth, redness, or darkening of the breast • New pain in one spot • Dimpling or puckering of the skin • Itchy, scaly sores, or a rash on the nipple • Pulling in of the nipple or other parts of the breast • Nipple discharge that starts suddenly • A lump in the underarm If any of these symptoms are detected, contact a physician immediately to start receiving the proper medical care. Researchers continue to make advances in the fight against breast cancer every day. Until a cure is found, regular screenings, awareness, and healthy lifestyle choices such as eating well and exercising regularly are among the best tools a woman can have to reduce her risk and survive the disease. Dr. Jamie Elizabeth Terry is a breast surgeon at Texas Oncology– Sugar Land, 1350 First Colony Blvd. in Sugar Land, Texas.
FOCUS ON THE CURE Cancer Does Not Spare The Eye
of the eyelids of the elderly and left untreated can invade the eye socket or lymph nodes. Although they make up only 1% of malignant eyelid tumors, malignant melanoma accounts for many deaths. Melanoma of the eyelids is usually detected by changes in the pigment, color, of the eyelid skin. 5 Elissa R. Wedemeyer O.D., FCOVD, FAAO
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hanks to the cancer societies and ad campaigns led by celebrities like Lance Armstrong and Katie Couric, through education of the general public, many lives have been saved each year from cancer due to early detection. As an optometrist, it continually surprises me when my patients ask me what I am looking for when I use my biomicroscope to examine their eyelids and eyes in general and why I need to dilate their pupils to look inside the eyes. The vast majorities of patients have no idea that the eyes are just as susceptible to their own cancers and metastatic cancers, as the rest of the organs and tissues of the body. Cancers of the Outer Eye Most of the cancers of the eyelid are prominent in elderly fair-skinned people and usually grow in the inner portion of the lower eyelid.1 Basal cell carcinomas are by far the most common, making up about 85-95% of all malignant eyelid tumors.2 These tumors most commonly appear as a raised pearly bump, vascularized and with a depressed middle. Basal cell tumors can be invasive but do not metastasize, spread to the rest of the body.3 Squamous cell carcinomas have similar location and patient profile and if neglected can spread to the lymph nodes in the neck.4 Sebaceous cell carcinomas originate in the glands
Intraocular Cancers Choroidal melanomas originate from the pigmented cells of the choroid and can spread to other parts of the body. They can only be detected by retinal examination by the doctor. Metastatic cancers from other parts of the body can cause choroidal metastasis. The primary cancer of origination in women is breast cancer and in men is lung cancer.6 Retinoblastoma is a malignant tumor of the retina that occurs predominantly in young children. Retinoblastoma accounts for only 3% of childhood cancers. It can be a single tumor and usually occurs in one eye. It can metastasize throughout the body. It is usually detected by a white reflection in the pupil of the eye and can cause visual problems, crossedeyes, and over-all irritation around the eyes.7 Orbital Cancers The orbit is the bony socket that contains the eye, the muscles that move the eye, the optic nerve and all the related nerves and blood vessels. Sarcoma, a malignant tumor that grows from the connective tissue and metastasis from other parts of the body can cause the eye to bulge and cause vision loss, double vision, and pain. 8 Early Detection The take home message here is that all children and adults need to have comprehensive eye examinations for the early detection of cancer in and fort bend
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around the eye that could be vision or life threatening. You don’t have to need glasses to see an eye doctor. We are the primary care doctors of the eyes , and with our specialized equipment, can provide early detection, treatment, and proper referral when necessary to provide complete health care to your eyes.
References: http://www.eyecareamerica.org/eyecare/ conditions/eye-tumors/index.cfm,The Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, Eyelid and Orbital Tumors D.J.Spalton, R.A. Hitchings, P.A. Hunter. Atlas of Clinical Ophthalmology 1984 , 2.12 http://www.eyecancermd.org/eye_cancers. htmlBascom Palmer Eye Institute: Eye Tumors http:/medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary. com/Retinal+cancer/Retinoblastoma
1,2,4,5,8,
3
6
7
Nodular pigmented malignant melanoma of the conjunctiva.
Small, vascular squamous cell carcinoma of the conjunctiva. Pictures from: http://eyecancerinfo.com/ Pages/conjunct.htm
FOCUS ON THE CURE Breast Reconstruction after Mastectomy
Victor J. Atun, M.D. Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
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econstructive plastic surgery for breast cancer is performed to replace skin, breast tissue and the nipple and areola complex removed during a mastectomy. The amount of missing tissue varies with each mastectomy. The ultimate goal of reconstruction is to restore symmetry of the two breasts. The choice that is right for one woman will not necessarily be right for another. That is because the long-term prospects of living without a breast or part of a breast affect every woman differently. After having a mastectomy, a patient may choose to wear an external breast form or pad or make no attempt to alter her appearance. Continual improvements in plastic surgery techniques offer better results today than ever before and make breast reconstruction an excellent option for most women facing a mastectomy. The decision, however, is a personal one and often not easy to make. Restoring the breast is considered reconstructive, not cosmetic, sur-
gery. Therefore, health insurance companies usually pay the major portion of the cost of the procedure. Breast reconstruction not only changes a woman’s physical appearance, but has psychological benefits as well. It can help promote a sense of wellness for the patient and her family. Whenever possible, plastic surgeons encourage women to begin breast reconstruction at the same time as they are having their mastectomy. For many women, immediate reconstruction reduces the trauma of having a breast removed as well as the expense, discomfort, and anesthesia risk of undergoing two major operations. However, it is also possible to reconstruct a breast months or even after a mastectomy. A variety of reconstructive techniques are available which offer cosmetically appealing results. Multiple factors, such as the patient’s goals, medical condition and previous surgery, are
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considered when choosing among reconstructive options. Some of the options include using breast implants or transferring a “skin and muscle flap” (TRAM Flap) of the patient’s own tissue from the abdomen to the chest to reconstruct the breast. Once the breast reconstruction has healed, the nipple and areola can be reconstructed. This is usually performed in the office by tattooing the areola and reconstructing the nipple with local tissue. The average length of hospital stay can vary from one to six day depending on the type of reconstruction performed. Breast implants typically allow for shorter hospital stays, while TRAM flaps often require longer stays. Most women return to normal activities within six weeks after surgery. The shape of the reconstructed breast will gradually improve over the months following the reconstruction. The patient will be asked to return for regular checkups at first. If a temporary expander was implanted, it will be expanded with saline once a week, on average, until the desired size is obtained usually within 3 to 4 office visits. Breast reconstruction has no bearing on cancer recurrence or surveillance, and generally does not interfere with chemotherapy or radiation treatments. Dr. Victor J. Atun is a board certified plastic surgeon in Sugar Land, Texas, who has extensive training and experience in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. For an appointment in one of three convenient locations, please call 281-232-6700 or visit www.topsdoc. com.
FOCUS ON THE CURE
What Matters Most?
Sandra Templeton, MD, FACS Diseases and Surgery of the Breast
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was just getting home from a long day at the hospital when I received a phone call from a woman in her 50’s who had just been diagnosed with breast cancer. She was frightened, unsure what her diagnosis would mean for herself or her family. This woman was unsure why cancer had chosen her because no other members of her family had breast cancer. Unfortunately, she did have the two most common variables associated with breast cancer which are being female and getting older. Most women who have breast cancer do not have a significant family history. Because we can’t always predict who will get breast cancer, mammograms help effectively screen. Most women if they don’t have a strong family history should get a baseline mammogram from 35-40 years of age, and a yearly mammogram after 40. Fortunately, she was vigilant about getting her mammograms. Although mammograms will not prevent breast cancer, they will find many cancers when they are small. This women’s tumor was still very small. So small it could not be felt; only seen by her yearly
mammogram. The size of a tumor and the extent of spread throughout the lymph nodes and the body are very important factors in determining a women’s survival. In fact, data from National Cancer Institute suggests that 98% of women with breast cancer localized to their breast are alive 5 years from their cancer diagnosis, yet only 23% of women with breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body are alive at 5 years. A number of factors, including other tumor characteristics, a person’s age and general health, can also affect outlook, but the size and spread of the tumor matter most. I spent the next few weeks vicariously walking through this woman’s many doctor visits, further tests, and many decisions. One of the main decisions she had to make was what type of surgery to have…a lumpectomy versus a mastectomy. This is a very personal decision. Before 1982, all women with breast cancer received a mastectomy for any size cancer. In the 80’s several randomized trials showed that women
who had a lumpectomy and radiation had the same survival as women who had a mastectomy. In 2002, follow up of these women who participated in these trials in the 80’s became available. They still after 20 years had the same survival despite which operation they chose. Today, the majority of cancers can be treated with a lumpectomy and radiation. She recently celebrated her 11 year cancer-free anniversary. Currently, she travels the country in her RV with her husband, plans a yearly family reunion, spends many hours caring for her neighbors and family, and walks every year in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. Over the past 20 years, this woman has been my friend, loved me through life’s triumphs and valleys, and been grandmother to my children and a mother to me even though she is actually my mother-inlaw. I’m thankful she was vigilant with her mammograms and breast exams. For more information, please contact 281-493-3000 or visit www. templetonbreastcare.com.
Fink Family on a Disney Christmas 2009 Tour.
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FOCUS ON THE CURE
Breast Reconstruction
John T. Nguyen, MD, FICS Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
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reast reconstruction is one or more operations performed to restore all components of the breast of women who have undergone mastectomy (removal of the entire breast). Breast reconstruction after mastectomy has evolved over the last century to become an integral component in the therapy for many women with breast cancer. A complete breast reconstruction includes recreating the breast mound, the nipple and areola complex so that the breasts are symmetric with regard to pigmentation, shape, size, projection, and position. The goals of breast reconstruction include the following: • To provide permanent breast contour, • To make the breasts look balanced, • To give the convenience of not requiring an external prosthesis. Breast reconstruction can be performed using the following: • Artificial material (silicone shell filled with either silicone gel or saline [a saltwater solution]) placed under the skin. • The woman’s own tissues (skin, muscle, fat) from another part of the body (flap reconstruction). • Pedicled flap: In this type of flap reconstruction, the tissues remain connected to the area of the body from which they are taken. Specifically, the blood supply to the transplanted tissues is not interrupted. • Free flap: In this type of flap reconstruction, the tissues are cut off from the original area and grafted to
the chest, and a new blood supply is created for the grafted tissues. • A combination of artificial material and the woman’s own tissues. Timing of breast reconstruction: Immediate versus Delayed Immediate breast reconstruction is reconstruction that is performed at the same time as the mastectomy. Delayed breast reconstruction is reconstruction that is performed weeks, months, or years after the mastectomy. Surgeons differ in their opinions about when breast reconstruction should be performed. If radiation therapy needs to be administered after mastectomy, then breast reconstruction is generally delayed until the skin in the treated area has healed. Excellent results can usually be achieved by either immediate breast reconstruction or delayed breast reconstruction. Reconstruction Using Implants Implants are designed to recreate the original breast shape and contour. A breast implant is a silicone shell filled with either silicone gel or saline. A tissue expander (balloon) is inserted beneath the skin and chest muscle either during the mastectomy procedure or at a later operation. The surgeon periodically injects saline into the balloon to gradually fill it over several weeks or months so that the overlying skin can expand. After the skin over the breast area has stretched enough, the tissue expander is removed in a second operation and a permanent breast implant is inserted. Some women do not require tissue expansion before receiving an implant; for these women, the surgeon inserts an implant directly. Flap Reconstruction Flap reconstruction is a reconstructive surgery in which a flap of skin and fat with or without muscle is transplanted from a part of the body (for example, the lower abdomen, back, thigh, or buttock) to the chest area where it is shaped to form a new breast mound. Like the implant www.fortbend
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surgery, this operation can be performed at the same time as the mastectomy or it can be delayed. Advantages of flap reconstruction include the following: • May eliminate the use of foreign material in the body. • Reconstructed breast usually looks and feels more natural. • Will last the woman’s life span. • When successful, requires minimal touch-up or redo operations throughout a woman’s lifetime. Disadvantages of flap reconstruction include the following: • Increased complexity and length of the surgery. • May require a longer recovery period if muscle is included in the reconstruction. • Additional donor site scars. Some women may require an implant, in addition to the flap reconstruction, for recreating the breast. If flap reconstruction is the selected option for reconstructive surgery, then the surgeon must decide from which part of the body the required tissues are taken. The tissues for breast reconstruction can be taken from the back, abdomen, buttock, or thigh. Reconstruction of the nipple and areola Once the breast mound has been reconstructed, the nipple and areola (pigmented area around the nipple) can be recreated approximately 2-3 months after the first breast reconstructive surgery. A nipple can be created using skin from the inner thigh, behind the ear, reconstructed breast, or labia (the skin folds of the vulva). The skin can be tattooed to match the other nipple and areola. Reconstructed nipple and areola have very little sensation. Women who decide not to have nipple and areola reconstruction performed can consider the option of nipple prosthesis. For more information, visit www. mybodysurgeon.com.
FOCUS ON THE CURE
Beating Cancer – One Race at a Time
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nown for her warm smiles and cheery disposition as a nurse in the Texas Medical Center for the past 25 years, many people would never assume that Lynda Terry is a woman on a mission when it comes to educating others about breast cancer. Lynda is a breast cancer survivor in the most extreme sense of the phrase – at the age of 48, she has been diagnosed twice with three precancerous masses. Due to her family history of breast cancer, she has kept a close eye on her health and was able to detect the masses early. After her second diagnosis, Lynda decided to break the cycle in her family and make sure that she did all that she could to ensure that money and research was available for her daughters so they could be well-prepared to learn about and identify breast cancer. Since that time, she has been a participant in the Komen Houston Race for the Cure®, helping to raise funds for local and national breast cancer education, research and treatment. “My mother and grandmother both passed away from breast cancer, and after my diagnosis, I decided it was up to me and all the other people who support ending breast cancer to be a part of this Race,” said Lynda. The Komen Houston Race for the Cure® is the largest generator of funding for the Komen Houston Affiliate, allowing them to grant millions of dollars each year to research, treatment, education, and screening both globally and right here in
Southeast Texas. In its 20 year history, the Komen Houston Affiliate has granted $7 million nationally and $22 million in its seven county service area. “The reason that I participate in the Race each year is simple,” said Lynda. “It warms my heart to see the women and men with breast cancer and those supporting them actually running, walking or riding it out in wheelchairs, or simply sitting at the side of the road waving at us. I feel if they can show their appreciation, the least that I can do is show my support back.” To Lynda, the Race for the Cure® is all about hope. By continuing to do her part in participating in the Race to help find a cure, there will be hope for her fort bend
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daughters and others in the future. Though it has been painful to watch loved ones pass with the same disease, Lynda wants to break her family’s cycle and train a new generation of young men and women on how to care for themselves. She currently shares her stories and lessons on breast cancer with Girl Scout Troops, daughters, and others ready to hear her message. “I’m proof that breast cancer can be overcome – and from now on, I’m willing to do my part in helping others overcome it, too,” said Lynda. With over 32,000 participants expected, the Komen Houston Race for the Cure® will be held Saturday, October 2 in Sam Houston Park in Downtown Houston. The Komen Houston Affiliate is hoping to raise more than $4,000,000 on Race day to be used for screening treatment and education, 75% of which will be used for local organizations in Southeast Texas with the other 25% going to global research. Participants for this year’s Race may run in the Family Walk / Kid Run (approximately ½ mile), a 5K Timed Competitive Run, a 5K Non-Competitive Run and 5K Race. Entry fees are $30 for adults, $25 for survivors, $15 for children and an additional $5 for any competitive Race. Participants unable to attend are still encouraged to support the event through the Sleep in for the Cure®. For more information about the Komen Houston Race for the Cure®, visit www.komen-houston.org.
Making Cancer History® in Sugar Land The Woodlands
Katy Bellaire Sugar Land
Texas Medical Center Bay Area
• • • •
Chemotherapy Radiation Lab and Pharmacy Leading Cancer Experts
On the Campus of St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital 281.566.1800 • 877.293.8127 (toll free) • mdanderson.org/sugarland
FOCUS ON THE CURE
Using Surrogates to Become a Mother as an Option for Breast Cancer Survivors
C. James Chuong, M.D. Medical Director, Cooper Institute for Advanced Reproductive Medicine
M
any breast cancer patients have sought medical advice regarding the safety of becoming pregnant after successful breast cancer treatment because 10-20% of patients are women of childbearing age. More cases are expected due to a notable trend toward pregnancy in older women, in whom the incidence of breast cancer is also higher. Physicians have stressed the complete rehabilitation of the breast cancer patient including reconstruction and psychosocial aspects. The patient, on completion of therapy, may wish to resume and continue her life roles, including that of BECOMING A MOTHER. The main concern is the possibility of cancer recurrence once the patient becomes pregnant. It has been documented that the initiation and promotion of breast cancer is influenced by the female hormone estrogen. During the pregnancy, the expected elevation of estrogen in the circulation may result in cancer recurrence. Besides the ovarian reserve, or the ability of the ovaries to produce quality eggs, usually decreases following the treatment frequently including chemotherapy. As a result, the patient needs to undergo
ovulation induction agents to improve the quality and to increase the number of eggs in order to get pregnant. These agents usually stimulate the estrogensensitive tissues including breast, thus putting the patients at an increasing risk of having recurrent cancer. Although successful pregnancies have been reported in patients completed therapies for breast cancer without evidence of recurrence following delivery, it remains a challenge for cancer survivors to go through pregnancy worrying that the possibility that cancer will return given the fact that the body is under the long term exposure to the intense gestational hormones including estrogen. With the development of new reproductive technology, an alternative and for breast cancer survivors to become mothers is the use of a surrogate or gestational carrier. The intended parents work with a surrogate who is willing to have embryos created by their eggs and sperms implanted, carry the pregnancy and give birth. The creation of embryos involves the technologies including in vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), embryo freezing, etc. It is also imperative and
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important to address the psychological, legal, and ethical concerns at the same time. We are pleased to report here a case of a successful pregnancy and delivery through the use of a surrogate in a cancer survivor. She was in her early 30s and never pregnant. Following the intense treatment regimen including surgeries, radiation therapy and chemotherapy, she and her husband decided to pursue the fertility. In collaboration with her oncologist, we carefully administered a controlled ovarian stimulation regimen to improve the quality and increase the number of eggs. During the first treatment cycle, 5 eggs were obtained resulting in 4 embryos via the techniques of IVF and ICSI. The embryos were frozen for “banking” purposes. During the second cycle, again 4 embryos were obtained. Two better embryos from both cycles were selected and implanted into the womb of a surrogate, who had a positive pregnancy test in 10 days. The surrogate had an uncomplicated pregnancy course, and the intended parents became one of the most joyful couples when a healthy baby boy was delivered at term. The new reproductive technology has helped many couples have their dream of building a family come true including those who are breast cancer survivors who will otherwise remain infertile. It takes a team approach and combined efforts involving physician, embryologist, scientist, nurses, psychologist, attorney, ethicist and social worker, to achieve this goal. By: C. James Chuong, M.D., Medical Director, Cooper Institute for Advanced Reproductive Medicine, 7500 Beechnut St., Suite 308, Houston, TX 77074. Visit www.cooperinstitutearm.com.
on
Health
By Dr. Peter Osborne
Breast Cancer Prevention (Are You Doing Your Part?)
O
ctober is National Breast Cancer Awareness month. As such, increasing awareness about prevention and common myths is the major focus of this article. Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosis in women. Rates in the U.S are one of the highest in the world. More than 200,000 cases are identified and approximately 44,000 die each year. The risk for developing breast cancer has increased from 1 in 20 women to 1 in 8 over the last 50 years. To date, the focus on breast cancer has been early detection. No emphasis has been placed on prevention. The motto for Breast Cancer Awareness Month is “Early Detection is Your Best Protection.” In 1995, the National Cancer Institute stated that “Breast cancer is simply not a preventable disease.” In 1997 this philosophy was fortified by the American Cancer Society’s announcement that “there are no practical ways to prevent breast cancer …”1 This is a very supine attitude as cancer is known to be contributed to by numerous preventable environmental factors. AstraZeneca spearheaded the creation of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in 1985. This is the same company that produces the controversial breast cancer drug, tamoxifen. All print, radio, and TV ads for Breast Cancer Awareness are paid for and must be approved by AstraZeneca. What should be known is that this same company is the owner of a chemical
plant that is the third largest source of potential cancer causing pollution in the U.S. Every year, 53,000 pounds of known carcinogens are put into the air by this plant.2 These pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides have direct links to cancer in the medical literature. Removing them from use in Israel led to an 8% reduction of breast cancer for women of all ages. 3 Beyond AstraZeneca’s interests in chemical production, tamoxifen grosses more than $500 million per year. This medication is commonly prescribed to reduce the recurrence of those with a history of breast cancer. However, according to the National Institute for Environmental Health Sciences, tamoxifen is a known carcinogen.4 A study published in the journal Science showed that 2-5 years of tamoxifen use initiated the growth of breast cancer. Additionally, tamoxifen is associated with an increased risk for uterine cancer, blood clots, stroke, eye damage, and menopausal symptoms. That being said, it is curious that AstraZeneca sponsored Breast Cancer Awareness Month focuses on detection while completing ignoring non pharmaceutical based prevention. Detection vs. Prevention: Radiation contributes to cancer. It should be known that mammograms are a source of radiation. Breast tissue in premenopausal women has been shown to be highly susceptible to radiation dam-
age. Additionally, mammograms can yield false positives ranging from 5-15% of the time. This can lead to additional radiation exposure as well as unnecessary stress and surgery. A variety of environmental factors play a role in the risk for breast cancer. Certain antidepressants and hormone replacement medications are known to increase the risk for breast cancer.5,6 Lack of exercise, chemical exposure to herbicides, pesticides, plastics, and other commonly used household chemicals have all been linked directly to breast cancer.7 High carbohydrate diets and poor abnormal insulin levels have been linked to breast cancer.8 Prevention is the most crucial aspect to fighting the war on breast cancer. Self education is critical. If we lose sight of it we are wasting excessive time, money, and resources in the wrong direction. Check back next month to learn more about what you can do to help prevent breast cancer. Want to Learn More? Visit www. TownCenterWellness.com H Epstein, Samuel E, M.D. The Politics of Cancer, East Ridge Press, USA1998, P 539. Batt, Sharon, “Cancer, Inc “, Sierra Magazine, September-October 1999, p. 36 3. J. Westin and E. Richter “ Israeli Breast Cancer Anomaly”, Annals of the New York Academy of Science 609 (1990). 269-279. 4. “U.S. Report Adds to List of Carcinogens” The New York Times , May 16, 2000 5. Journal of the National Cancer Institute February 16, 2000;92. 6. Am J Epidemiol. 2000 May 15;151(10):951-7. 7. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2001;10: 287-301 8. International Journal of Cancer April 20, 2005;114(4):653-658. 1.
2.
DID YOU KNOW?
You have one of the country’s most advanced alternative medicine clinics right here in Sugar Land n Dr. Osborne
• Is a Diplomate and the Executive Secretary of the American Clinical Board of Nutrition • Is the only Board Certified Nutritionist in Sugar Land • Is a member of the ACA Council on Nutrition • Has held teaching appointments at Texas Women’s University and HCC’s nursing program • Lectures nationally to other physicians on the topic: Drug Induced Nutritional Deficiencies
n Town Center Wellness:
Dr. Peter Osborne
• Offers genetic testing to match your lifestyle and diet to your genes • Offers complete laboratory nutritional analysis to identify vitamin and mineral deficiencies • Offers traditional and specialty lab services to assist in patient diagnosis • Offers state of the art Spinal Decompression therapy to prevent back surgery • Offers genetic and laboratory testing to identify gluten sensitivity • Offers chiropractic care
4724 Sweetwater Blvd. Suite 102, Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-240-2229 • www.TownCenterWellness.com Advertorial
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Community Calendar
October 2010 9th SATURDAY, 2 - 4 PM HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH Enjoy traditional dance and music at Fort Bend County Libraries’ Missouri City Branch, 1530 Texas Parkway. For info, call 281-499-4100. 11th & 25th MONDAY, 6:30 PM FALL FAMILY MOVIE NIGHTS Fort Bend County Libraries will feature a free Fall Family Movie Series at the Sienna Branch Library located at 8411 Sienna Springs Blvd. in Missouri City. For info, call 281-238-2900.
On Sunday, October 24, approximately 1,000 athletes will compete in the 18th Annual Katy Triathlon. ALL MONTH HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH TRIBUTE Fort Bend County Libraries will feature a photographic tribute to the Salón Zaragoza, a Mexican-American dance hall in Rosenberg that was home to many celebrations in the early 1900’s. The exhibit will be at George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview in Richmond and may be viewed during regular hours. Call 281-341-2677. ALL MONTH WHIMSICAL HOLIDAY TEAPOTS ON DISPLAY At the Fort Bend County Libraries’ Mamie George Branch Library, 320 Dulles Avenue in Stafford. The exhibit may be viewed during regular hours. For info call 281-491-8086. 2nd SATURDAY, 4 TO 8 PM ARTERNATIVE FESTIVAL In collaboration with the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation, Fresh Arts Coalition and Spacetaker are hosting the first ARTernative Festival in Sugar Land’s Town Square Plaza. This is a FREE, family-oriented event. For a complete schedule and more about the ARTernative Festival, visit www.arternative.org. 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.
8th FRIDAY, 7 - 9 PM PUPPET SHOW IN THE PLAZA Bring the whole family to enjoy a free concert and award winning puppet show in Town Square. Enjoy a variety of sounds by The Matchsticks. This show is brought to you by Fort Bend Regional Council and “Skip the DrugFree Pup.” 9th SATURDAY, 8 - 10 AM 2ND ANNUAL PAWS FOR A CAUSE DOG WALK Join the First Colony Community Association for their charity dog walk benefiting the Sugar Land Animal Shelter. Held at Sugar Land Memorial Park, 15300 University Blvd. For info call 281-634-9555 or visit www.firstcoloy.org. 9th SATURDAY, 10 AM - 12 NOON AUTISM PLAY GROUP This group provides social opportunities for children with Autism ages 1 to 12 years & their families while building a support network. Drinks, snacks and door prizes are provided. RSVP is required. Held at Sugar Land City Park‚ 225 7th Street. For info, e-mail Susan at susan@ susangar.com or call 281-726-2665.
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12th TUESDAY, 7 PM HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH Enjoy traditional Mexican dance and music at Fort Bend County Libraries’ George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview in Richmond. Dancers from Guadalupe Ballet Folklórico will perform. For info, call 281-341-2677. 14th THURSDAY, 1 PM FREE BREAST CANCER AWARENESS SEMINAR The University of Texas MD Anderson Regional Care Center in Sugar Land will host a free seminar on breast cancer awareness at the City of Sugar Land Senior Center. The event is free and open to those at least 55 years old. For info call (281) 275-2893. 14th THURSDAY, 7 - 9 PM GREEN THUMB SEMINAR: RAINWATER HARVESTING Join us for “Rainwater Harvesting” at Parkway United Methodist Church, 5801 New Territory Blvd in Sugar Land. For info, call 281-341-7068 or visit www.fbmg.com. 16th SATURDAY, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM 7TH ANNUAL GULF COAST INTERNATIONAL DRAGON BOAT REGATTA Held at Brooks Lake (at Fluor) in Sugar Land. For info, visit www.texasdragonboat.com.
16th SATURDAY, 9 AM - 4 PM PICK-A-DILLY CRAFTS FAIR Held at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church, 20775 Kingsland Blvd in Katy. Enjoy craft booths, silent auction, pumpkin patch, bake sale and food. Call 281-492-8031 ext 377 or visit www.stpeterskaty.org. 16th, 23rd & 30th SATURDAY, 10 AM & 1 PM “RETURN TO HOGWARTS” MOVIE MANIA Fort Bend County Libraries will feature a free “Return to Hogwarts” Movie Mania series at George Memorial Library. The series begins on October 16 with the first two movies. On October 23, see the third and fourth films in the series. On October 30, see the fifth movie in the set. Drinks are provided. For info, call 281-341-2677. 18th MONDAY, 5:30 - 8:45 PM JOB-SEARCH SURVIVAL TIPS Fort Bend County Libraries’ First Colony Branch Library, 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land, will present a three-part series beginning on Monday and contining on October 19 and 20, at the same time. Registration not required. Call 281-341-2677. 19th TUESDAY, 10 - 11:30 AM FRIENDS OF CHILD ADVOCATES’ ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP COFFEE Join us at 834 Bel Mar in Sugar Land. Enjoy an informal presentation by Twenty-Two Fifty Interiors and Gifts. For info, contact Pam at 281-494-1012 or pamdg@wt.net. 19th TUESDAY, 7 PM LEARN ABOUT CAREERS IN UNIFORMED SERVICES Representatives from various branches of the military, local fire and police departments will provide an overview of careers in their fields at a “Uniformed Services Career Program” at FBC Libraries’ Sienna Branch Library at 8411 Sienna Springs Blvd. For info, call 281-238-2900.
21st & 28th THURSDAY, 7 PM HEALTHY HOLIDAY COOKING Come to “Merry Morsels: Healthy Holiday Cooking,” at Fort Bend County Libraries. On the 21st, get tips at the Sugar Land Branch Library located at 550 Eldridge. On the 28th, the program will be repeated at George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview in Richmond. Sandra Fry, will demonstrate various holiday dishes that taste great and are easy to make. For info, call 281-341-2677. 21st THURSDAY, 7 - 8 PM HIGH DENSITY GARDENING Hear LeeAnn Barton with Dave Wilson Nursery speak about “High Density Gardening”. Located at 1330 Band Road, Rosenberg, 77471. Call 281-341-7068 for info. 22nd FRIDAY, 6 PM - MIDNIGHT DENIM & DIAMONDS DINNERDANCE AND CASINO NIGHT Enjoy over 20 casino tables and games of chance with the opportunity to win fabulous prizes provided by local businesses. A buffet dinner and DJ round out a fun filled night. A big thank you to Richmond Bone & Joint Clinic, P.A. for being the title sponsor. Proceeds benefit Antoinette Reading Junior High School PTO. E-mail fundraising@readingpto.org. 23rd SATURDAY, 12 NOON FOREIGN FILM SERIES AT FEATURES CHINESE DRAMA The Adult Foreign Film Series at Fort Bend County Libraries’ Sienna Branch Library continues with a Chinese drama. The movie is shown in Mandarin Chinese, with English subtitles. For info call 281-238-2900. 24th SUNDAY, 7:30 - 11 AM 18TH ANNUAL KATY TRIATHLON The 2010 race hopes to draw 1,000 participants! Registration is open and continues through October 20. The complete fee structure and deadlines are posted on www.katytriathlon.com. www.fortbend
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29th FRIDAY, 6 - 10 PM PARENTS NIGHT OUT AT ALPHA OMEGA GYM Enjoy gymnastics, games, pizza, arts & crafts, movies and more! Ages 3 and up. Cost is $30 for the first child, $15 for additional siblings. Register at www.alphaomegagym.net. 30th SATURDAY, 9 AM - 3 PM 10TH ANNUAL GIFTS GALORE AT GREATWOOD CRAFT SHOW This year’s show features over 100 vendors. Held at 7110 Greatwood Parkway, Sugar Land. For info call 281.937.0144 or e-mail giftsgaloreatgreatwood@yahoo.com.
SUGAR LAND TOWN SQUARE EVENTS www.sugarlandtownsquare.com Call 281-313-SLTS Friday, October 1 6:30 - 8 pm Radio Disney’s Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam Party Thursday, October 7 7 - 9 pm Thursday Night Jazz in the Plaza Saturday, October 9 7 - 9 pm The Taste of Town Square Friday, October 15 5 - 7 pm Pumpkin Decorating Workshop Saturday, October 16 7 - 9 pm Movie under the Moon Friday, October 22 7 - 9 PM Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra Saturday, October 23 10 am - 4 pm Jaguar Club of Houston’s Annual Concours D’Elegance Show Friday, October 29 7 - 9 pm Concert in the Plaza Saturday October 30 4 - 8 PM Halloween Town
THE GRAND SOIREE
A semi-finalist on HGTV’s Season 4 Design Star, Torie Halbert is the special guest at The Grand Soiree’s Vineyard Style scheduled for Friday, October 15 at Sugar Land’s The Vineyard. Tickets for the luncheon and speaker are $40 and are available at www.TheGrandSoiree.com.
a Collection of Stylish Events
T
he Grand Soiree, a collection of stylish events scheduled for September 25th through October 27th, takes the greater Houston area by storm with an original series of showcased events all about style. Created by the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, along with title sponsors Sienna Plantation and Riverstone, The Grand Soiree is the ultimate collection of stylish events designed to deliver excitement, luxury and elegance while indulging in jewelry, dining, shopping and art. With a unique focus on fashion, design, art and luxury lifestyle, developing The Grand Soiree was a natural for the Fort Bend Chamber and Fort Bend’s two premier Master-Planned communities: Sienna Plantation and Riverstone. “Both Sienna Plantation and Riverstone have enjoyed a productive, long-standing relationship with the Fort Bend Chamber,” said Susie Goff, Marketing Director for Sienna Plantation. “Six years ago, we co-developed the Sienna Sip & Stroll, which takes place in our community as one of the feature events of The Grand Wine & Food Affair. It’s a unique and extremely well-attended event that we enjoy hosting so it was easy for us to see the potential and play a
major role in creating The Grand Soiree.” The ten stylish events – The Grand Soiree – featuring fashion, designers and artists kicks off in September with Couture for the Cause - Escape to Treasure Island, a private-themed fashion show benefiting the American Cancer Society held at the Sienna Plantation Resort Lagoon. The remaining events are scheduled throughout the month of October, and they are designed to showcase what’s happening in the home, fashion and jewelry industries. Internationally Renowned 3D Chalk Artist Tracy Lee Stum Hosted by Riverstone, visitors are encouraged to bring their cameras and interact with the work of internationally acclaimed 3D chalk artist Tracy Lee Stum, the focal point for The Grand Soiree’s first October event. Considered one of the world’s foremost street artists, Stum will create a new 3D masterpiece inside a newly completed, multi-million dollar custom estate by Sterling Classic Homes in Riverstone. Stum’s work launches a two-week showcase of the home where visitors will be able to watch the artist create her work of grand illusion October 6th through
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Internationally acclaimed 3D chalk artist Tracy Lee Stum will create an original masterpiece during The Grand Soiree at a multi-million dollar custom estate home in Riverstone. October 6 through 8, guests can watch Stum create her masterpiece that will be debuted October 8th at Artful Living with Neiman Marcus. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.TheGrandSoiree.com.
8th. The artwork will be on display as the showcase continues October 9th through 17th. Tickets for both periods are $5 each with a portion of the proceeds benefitting various local charities. Stum’s work has been featured on ABC’s “Good Morning America” and in the BBC documentary “King of the Strip” about the making of the Venetian Hotel and Casino for which she created an over 11,000-square-foot trompe l’oeil ceiling mural. Currently, Stum holds the Guinness World Record for the largest street painting by an individual for her interpretation of Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper,” commissioned for the DVD release of the film “The Da Vinci Code.” Artful Living with Neiman Marcus For The Grand Soiree, Stum will be creating a waterfall and cliff illusion inside the Riverstone custom home, and
while countless visitors will be able to view the masterpiece October 9th through 17th, only 250 tickets will be available for an exclusive VIP preview with the artist, Artful Living with Neiman Marcus. During Artful Living on Friday, October 8th, Stum will be on hand to visit with guests, and Neiman Marcus will showcase a sampling of the latest home décor design trends. Guests attending the VIP event will also receive a copy of “The Book,” Neiman Marcus’ signature catalogue. Tickets to the VIP event are $75. Fort Bend Goes to the Fall Design Market Mid October brings three additional Grand Soiree events spotlighting the area’s finest in home design, fashion and food. Touted as the complete source for the best in home and commercial design, guests will have the opportunity to visit The Houston Design Center’s exclusive Fall Design Market via a luxury bus tour departing from Fort Bend. The event celebrates the newest in design trends with 30 exciting showrooms featuring furniture, antiques, rugs, art, lighting, fabrics and more. Guests can mingle with some of the area’s top designers in the 15-acre design center. The event is scheduled from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm on Wednesday, October 13th, and tickets are $40. Vineyard Style Vineyard Style, scheduled for Friday, October 15th, features lunch at Sugar Land Town Square’s The Vineyard and special guest Houston designer Torie Halbert. Halbert, known for her stint as a contestant on season 4 of HGTV’s Design Star, will give guests a “behind the scenes” look at her time on the popular reality show. With a lounge, bistro, tasting room and wine shop, the bistro offers an array of gourmet dishes that pair nicely with the restaurant’s wines which guests will sample during lunch. Tickets for the luncheon and speaker are $40. The International Risotto Festival Perfect for a Sunday afternoon, October 17th features The International
Risotto Festival at the Houston Design Center. Enjoy a delicious afternoon of food, fun and festivities with some of the area’s finest chefs competing with one another in a risotto challenge. Participating restaurants to date include Carmelo’s Branch Water Tavern, Grotto, Mockingbird Bistro, Pesce and Trevisio. Guests will be able to sample the risotto creations and enjoy live music, tours of the Houston Design Center’s designer showrooms, tastings of award-winning wines and family entertainment. The event is 2 to 6 pm and tickets are $65. Women, Wine and Womack Artist Kathy Womack, best known for her original Women and Wine® series paintings, travels to Fort Bend for an exclusive art gallery showing in a custom home in Riverstone, a Johnson Development community. The showing will feature an array of Womack’s work including paintings from her Women and Wine® series. A mother of three from Austin, Womack “lives vicariously through her paintings” and describes her inspiration for her well-known series. “My life is very full, just not glamorous. So, there’s this little piece of me that screams to put on some strappy sandals, an evening frock and hit the town. See the girls, have a glass of wine . . . or two!” Womack’s Gallery Showing is scheduled for Monday, October 18th from 4 to 6 pm, and tickets are $15. Immediately following the showing, guests can attend the Women & Wine Art Dinner with Womack at Aura Restaurant at 6:30 pm. Tickets for dinner with the artist are $75 and include dinner and wine. Fire & Ice Great food, fabulous wine and sparkling jewels are the perfect collaboration for the Fire & Ice Vintner Dinner at the The Post Oak Grill in Sugar Land. Scheduled for Thursday, October 21st, the evening will feature a gourmet meal and wines from Alexander Valley Vineyard and Dry Creek. A special “jeweled” dessert created by Courtney Goff, recently from Washington DC’s number one rated restaurant, Kumi, will finish off the meal.
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Renowned for their culinary skills and service for over twenty years, The Post Oak Grill’s newest location in Sugar Land provides the perfect setting for Fire & Ice: elegance and good taste. To add some sparkle to the night, fabulous jewels will be on display. Tickets for the evening are $150. Mix It Up at the M Lounge The final event in The Grand Soiree lets you mix it up on Friday, October 27th. The newly opened, posh M Lounge in Sugar Land is the setting for an evening of creative libations. Mix it Up at the M Lounge features a bartender’s challenge where guests are judges. David Allan, bartender and writer of the blog “Tipsy Texan,” is collaborating with the region’s top mixologists at this cocktail challenge. Sample original cocktails and vote for your favorite in Fort Bend’s newest hot spot. Tickets are $40. Tickets for The Grand Soiree events are limited, and they are available at www. TheGrandSoiree.com. Facebook fans will receive the latest updates, and event photos are posted regularly. Indulge yourself in this incredible showcase of luxury and extravagance celebrating good taste: The Grand Soiree. H
The Grand Soiree’s Mix It Up at the M Lounge features top mixologists creating their favorite cocktails in a competition on October 27th at Sugar Land’s posh M Lounge. Tickets are $40 and are available at www.TheGrandSoiree.com.
INTERNATIONAL PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Focus Magazines Name Managing Editor
InternationalPreparatorySchool.com
Photo by Alisa Murray
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Integrity, Honesty and Service to Others Available After School Programs:
Homework Assistance • Art • Voice • Guitar Piano • Kid Fit • Math Club • Chess Club
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After School Program available until 6:30 pm.
For More Information Call: 281-208-1403 1717 Dulles Ave., Missouri City, TX 77459 Fax: 281-208-1426
Full Care Available • Mon-Fri • 7 am - 6:30 pm
ENGAGEMENT &
WEDDING
ANNOUNCEMENTS Have your life’s greatest news published in our magazine. See how to guarantee your wedding details are featured in our “Real Weddings” issue. Published in print and online.
To advertise, please call
281.690.4242
Fort Bend Focus and Pearland Focus Magazines are pleased to announce the addition of Patti Parish-Kaminski as the new Managing Editor. Parish-Kaminski’s career in the fields of communications, public relations and special events has spanned over twenty-two years, and she has served as a contributor to the magazines writing various cover and feature stories for nearly four years. Over the past year and a half, Parish-Kaminski has served as Editor in Chief of Focus on Women Magazine, a new women’s magazine published by Michael and Lisa Fredrickson, publishers of Fort Bend Focus and Pearland Focus Magazines. “We are thrilled to have Patti on board as our Managing Editor,” said Lisa Fredrickson, Publisher. “Her work to benefit our community along with her wealth of experience in communications and in the publishing industry makes her a valuable asset to our team.” After graduating from the University of Texas’ School of Communications, Parish-Kaminski began her career at a Houston advertising agency where she served as a media buyer and publicist. She returned to Austin, Texas to serve on the Communications Staff of then Texas Agriculture Commissioner Rick Perry as an Events Specialist. Parish-Kaminski coordinated special events throughout the state for the Texas Department of Agriculture and transferred into the Marketing Division of the agency where she served as the Coordinator for Advertising and Special Events responsible for the department’s “Buy Texas” program. In 1999, Parish-Kaminski started her own firm specializing in marketing communications, events and public relations in Fort Bend. Parish-Kaminski & Associates’ clientele has consisted of numerous non-profit agencies, publishing companies including Farm & Ranch Publishing, Regency Publishing and three Focus Magazine titles, various professionals and political candidates. Parish-Kaminski is married to Fort Bend County native Tim Kaminski. They have lived in Fort Bend for fifteen years, and they have two children, Kassidi, age 13 and Kolton, age 11.
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Headliners continued from page 41
Dazzle your friends and family.
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FBJSL introduces Preview Night in Honor of the Sugar Plum Market’s 10 Year Anniversary Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) is pleased to announce the debut of Preview Night at the 2010 FBJSL Sugar Plum Market presented by Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. In honor of the 10th anniversary of both the Market and FBJSL, the League is excited to add Preview Night on Thursday, November 4th, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Patrons will be given a unique opportunity to be among the first to shop the Market while enjoying cocktails, light hors d’oeuvres provided by a variety of local restaurants and a festive holiday atmosphere. Preview Night tickets are $50 and can be purchased by contacting tickets@sugarplummarket.com. Shopping for this year’s “A Holly Jolly Christmas” themed event will continue on Friday, November 5th from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Saturday, November 6th from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the beautiful Stafford Centre Performing Arts Theatre and Convention Center. Proceeds from this year’s Market will once again benefit charities serving Fort Bend County. For more information, visit www.sugarplummarket.com, call 281636-6272 or e-mail info@fbjsl.com. Headliners continued on page 63
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Music Business Duo Hail From Sugar Land By Tanya Sterling
Bruce Kalmick of Ambience Artists Management with Brandon Rhyder.
W
hen it comes to music, Texans are especially proud. Even though the rest of America may associate Texas with country superstars, natives know there is a wide variety of music that this state nurtures. From Janis Joplin to Stevie Ray Vaughan to Brandon Rhyder and Whiskey Myers, Texans produce music that reflects their unique culture. The Texas music scene is dynamic, full of talent and Ricky Brown and Bruce Kalmick of Ambiance Artists Management are an integral part of this musical revolution. Based in Austin, Ambiance Artists Management is a management firm whose current roster includes the Josh Abbott Band, Brandon Rhyder, the Kyle Bennett Band, Courtney Now, Whiskey Myers, Ben Danaher and Charlie Shafter fort bend
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& The Gnomes. The company was founded by Fort Bend County natives, Bruce Kalmick and Ricky Brown. Both attended First Colony Middle School and Clements High School where they graduated in 2000. “Sugar Land is certainly my hometown,” says Kalmick. “While at Clements, I lettered in soccer and played basketball and football. I was also the sports editor of the school newspaper, Ranger Review.” “I lettered in basketball,” says Brown. “I was also in a rock band, reminiscent of the band 311, which was a big part of solidifying my love for music.” Friends at Clements, Brown and Kalmick went off to Texas State University in San Marcos where they were college roommates. They graduated in 2004, and the duo were determined to successfully make it in the entertainment world. After brief work stints in the industry, Kalmick and Brown got serious about starting a booking agency of their own. “Ricky and I always had the entrepreneurial spirit,” says Kalmick. “So, one day we met up at a restaurant and put together a business plan about starting our booking agency. I’m not sure what we were thinking back then as we had no money, no trust funds, but we were determined.” “After a three-hour planning session and a couple phone calls to the folks, KB Talent was formed and running on pure motivation to succeed. It’s been hard work but we wouldn’t change a thing,” added Brown.
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Want to have a little fall fun? The Clements Star Dance Team is hosting their 6th Annual Clements Cuties Calendar Contest at 7 pm on Friday, October 15th, in the CHS Auditorium. The 2010 participants will consist of two lucky young men from each club or organization determined by the senior class. These 24 contestants will show off their skills in the talent, question, and modeling portions of the program that evening. The audience members will then cast their ballots to decide who will be the twelve “Cuties” featured in the calendar. The package of one admission ticket with one calendar is $15. Calendars alone are $12 each, and individual tickets are $5 each. Purchase your ticket from any CHS Stars Dance Team member beginning October 1st, or during lunch the week of the event in the Commons. Tickets will be $8 at the door. All proceeds go toward the Star’s Dance Team competition season expenses. Come cheer and support your favorite calendar cutie. For further information on this event, please contact Anne Saunders at mamasaund@aol. com, or 281-240-5793.
“It was the time of roses. We plucked them as we passed.” - Thomas Hood
Clements Stars Cuties Calendar Contest, Oct. 15th
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“Though an old man, I am but a young gardener.” - Thomas Jefferson
Come to the Clements Stars Cuties Calendar Contest, Oct. 15th. Pictured are: (front) Nasim Heydari, Lauren Castiglioni; (top) Michelle Shutter, Morgan Davis, Katherine Saunders.
“May your garden be a place where you can find peace - where time stands still.”
Continued from page 62
Ambience Artists Management owners and Sugar Land natives Ricky Brown and Bruce Kalmick at the Josh Abbott Band and Kyle Bennett show. It didn’t take long for Kalmick and Brown to sign their first real national act, The Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash, and the rest is history. With the success of KB Talent, these Sugar Land natives then ventured into management, launching Ambiance Artists approximately 18 months ago. “We have had a lot of success but, as with everything else, there is so much behind-thescenes work that must always be done, “says Kalmick. Ambiance Artists Management is preparing to move into new offices in October, now has eight full-time employees plus interns. “We are very proud of our internship program. As we are a small firm, our interns get a lot of hands-on experience and get thrown right in the middle of the action. They certainly experience job responsibility,” says Brown. “As a result, we have professors from all over the state and neighboring states referring college students to us.” Two of the duo’s clients include Whiskey Myers and Brandon Rhyder. Both will be performing at the Fort Bend County Fair this year which concludes on Saturday, October 2nd in Rosenberg. Brandon Rhyder, who is a staple on the Texas music scene, will close out the Fair on Saturday, October 2nd at 9 pm. He recently released his second single, “You Burn Me,” and it placed in the Top Ten on the
Texas Music Star Brandon Rhyder Slated to Perform at Fort Bend County Fair Texas Regional Radio Report. “We are so excited to have both Brandon Rhyder and Whiskey Myers play in our hometown,” says Brown. “Bruce and I will definitely be at both shows!” “We consider our artists as family and support them one hundred percent,” adds Kalmick. “It’s going to be extra special having them play at the Fort Bend County Fair as both Ricky and I regularly attended the fair back when Pat Green was performing.” Brown and Kalmick both live in Austin. Kalmick is married and the couple recently bought a new home in the Lake Travis area. Brown is in a long-term relationship and just moved into a new condominium with his girlfriend. Both entrepreneurs also have two dogs each and travel a lot. “Bruce and I travel approximately 50% of the year,” says Brown. “We are either on the road with artists or in Nashville. However, we are excited about traveling back to our hometown of Sugar Land to see Whiskey Myers and Brandon Rhyder at the Fort Bend County Fair!”
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Music lovers have come to know Brandon Rhyder’s name and songs over the last few years. Regionally, he’s a popular fixture on the Texas scene. Rhyder released his second single, “You Burn Me,” in April, and it placed in the Top Ten on the Texas Regional Radio Report. The song is off his new album, Head Above Water, and is a follow up to his recent No. 1 hit, “Rock Angel.” Head Above Water includes twelve songs and a bonus DVD featuring an exclusive behind-the-scenes documentary about the making of the disc. Brandon Rhyder performs at the Fort Bend County Fair in Rosenberg on Saturday, October 2nd on the Brazos stage at 9 pm. For more information on Rhyder, visit his website at www.brandonrhyder.com.
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Flanking Fr. Drew Wood, pastor of St. Laurence Catholic Church, and founding parishioners Arlene (driver) and Joe Catania, owners of Southern Ford. They are joined by the 2010 Bazaar Co-Chairs, (left to right, in truck) Tim Lootens, Michelle Archer, Tom Nork, Scott Day, Kenny Priesmeyer, and (standing in front) Tami McGuire.
Celebrating 25 Years ‘In His Hands’ at the 18th Annual St. Laurence Church Bazaar
Victoria L. Regan, MD Angela Chia, MD Steve Alley, MD Julia Conlon, MD Christa Filak, MD
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St. Laurence Catholic Church in Sugar Land is the place to be for great family fun at their 18th annual parish bazaar the weekend of October 16-17, 2010. This popular bazaar features lots of food, games, activities, rides, bingo, live music and a raffle. This year, St. Laurence marks the 25th anniversary of the founding of their parish and they invite everyone to join them at the bazaar to celebrate “25 Years – In His Hands”. The bazaar will be held Saturday evening, October 16 from 5:00-10:00 p.m., and all day Sunday, October 17 from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m on the grounds of the St. Laurence Religious Education Center on the corner of Sweetwater Blvd. and Austin Parkway in First Colony. Entrance is free; food, activity and raffle tickets are available for purchase at the event. A 2010 Ford F150 STX Pickup provided by Southern Ford, plus nine other amazing prizes, will be raffled at the close of the bazaar on Sunday night; raffle tickets are available for purchase at the bazaar and in advance at the parish office. Proceeds benefit the continuing operation of the parish and enables St. Laurence to continue assisting numerous worthwhile charities throughout the community. Please visit www.stlaurence.org or call 281-980-9812 for a complete Mass and rosary schedule, Spanish Mass, and listing of all parish groups and activities including the parish bazaar.
6400 Fannin, Suite 2110 Houston, TX 77030
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The board of directors of the Rosenberg Railroad Museum, a museum for all of Fort Bend County, will host its 8th Annual Fundraising Gala on Saturday, October 23, 2010 from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at the Safari Texas Ranch Ballroom in Richmond. The Honorable Leonard Scarcella, Mayor of Stafford, has hopped aboard as Honorary Chair for the Gala, “Celebrating Rail in Fort Bend County,” and will be the keynote speaker. Stafford businessman and private rail car owner Patrick Henry will be serving as the evening’s Master of Ceremonies as well as donating a luncheon for 10 onboard his private rail cars. Museum board member and author of Railroads of Fort Bend County, Jim Vollmar, will be in attendance and proceeds of his book sales will benefit the museum. Over the past eight years, the Rosenberg Railroad Museum has grown from a dream into a major tourist attraction for Fort Bend County. Thousands of guests visit the museum each year from all over the nation. Programs and services are continually being added and the museum has five certified Operation Lifesaver presenters who work in cooperation with Texas Operation Lifesaver, a program that teaches railroad safety to citizens of the Gulf Coast region. New museum Executive Director, Jerry Hoover is committed to keeping the museum’s exhibits and programs growing. Fort Bend residents and businesses are encouraged to attend the gala or make a donation. The museum is a private nonprofit institution with 501(c)(3) status. All donations are tax deductible. Tickets and sponsorship information are available at www.rosenbergRRmuseum.org/gala.
photo: saraheevansphotography.com photos: roy kasmir
Keeping Track: Celebrating Rail in Fort Bend County 8th Annual Fundraising Gala
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
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FORT BEND
Focus CareS Changing Lives
S
ometimes the key to changing a life is a stern push in the right direction. Sometimes it is enduring patience. Sometimes it is setting an inspiring example. Tom Walters is a volunteer who knows when and how to use each of those keys effectively. Tom worked in Human Resources at ExxonMobil for 32 years and retired in September of 2006. After retirement, he felt a strong inclination to volunteer his time helping others. Tom soon focused on the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County (LCFBC), an organization that teaches basic literacy, English as a Second Language, and GED preparation. Tom’s willingness to step in and help coupled with his kind and patient nature, have made him an ideal tutor. When asked if there is a student or experience that really stands out to him, Tom immediately thinks of two students in particular. One of the students was his very first and contin-
Tom Walters and grandson
ues to work with him now. This student has three children, and her time is very limited. But, she knows that education is the key to her economic independence. Tom’s dedication and patience matches her own, making them an excellent team as they work towards her goal. Tom recognizes
Doesn’t your smile deserve a specialist’s care?
that the key to her success is enduring patience. Another standout in Tom’s mind is a young man who began at the Literacy Council as an English as a Second Language student. Tom recognized right away that this young man was much smarter than he knew. He needed to be challenged! Instead of using ESL materials, Tom settled on a GED curriculum and took on the “stern father” role that he felt young man needed to unlock his potential. Making this student feel good about his achievements was also a key to helping him change his life. Tom’s influence doesn’t stop at the doors of the Literacy Council. He periodically returns to ExxonMobil to visit with former co-workers and has inspired many of them to become tutors as well, thereby perpetuating the cycle of lives changed through literacy. To learn more about volunteering for LCFBC call (281) 240-8181. H
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People seeking cosmetic or reconstructive dental work should do research before making a decision in order to ensure proper care. As ADA recognized specialists, Prosthodontists are qualified to before after offer service in state-of-the-art procedures and techniques, such Actual Patients as: cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, complete and removable partial dentures, replacing lost or loose teeth, jaw joint CROWNS, IMPLANTS, COSMETIC, RECONSTRUCTIVE DENTISTRY problems (TMD), traumatic injuries, BOARD CERTIFIED PROSTHODONTIST snoring and sleep disorders, oral cancer reconstruction and 15958 CITY WALK, SUITE 230 • SUGAR LAND, TX 77479 continuing care. E-mail: srimes@comcast.net
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Thomas P. Arnold, OD Melissa C. Moeller, OD and Associates
Co-chair Scott Richardson, Uncle Ross Sears, Woody Williams, Dad Terry Sears, Co-Chair Jamey Webster and Taylor.
It Takes a Village to Find a Cure….Thank You Sugar Land!! For the past 7 years, Sugar Land has been supporting the Cystic Fibrosis families in our area by raising money to find a cure for this degenerative disease. Sugar Land, your efforts have paid off!!! This past year, a new drug was discovered and for the first time many children that have been suffering from chronic lung infections have a new medication that’s not only working but takes 2 minutes to inhale instead of 30 minutes!! That is a HUGE difference in the life of a child!! From the beginning of the October fun runs, Litton Loan Servicing has lead by sponsoring the finish line every year. Wayne Wiechert Realty – Wayne Murray Properties donates water bottles for each runner. The Phoenix Design Group sets up the moonwalks and signs for the fun run while Sweet Tomatoes and Chic-filA provide the pre-run breakfast for our runners. Fort Bend Baptist Academy, River Pointe Church and Sugar Creek Baptist have rallied around the Taylor Sears family by leading, volunteering and supporting the run and the auction and dinner. Leonetti Graphics helps us thank our sponsors each year by printing our tshirts. But none of this would happen without the many volunteers that put the events together. The CF families want to say thank you AND it’s not time to quit!!! Fun Run: October 30th, 8:00 am, Oyster Creek Park Dinner and Auction: November 13th, 7:30 pm, Mercedes-Benz Dealership, Sugar Land.
Therapeutic and Pediatric Optometrists 15337 Southwest Frwy. Sugar Land, TX 77478 Williams Trace @ Hwy 59
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Headliners continued on page 70 www.fortbend
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Presented by Fort Bend Junior Service League and Methodist Sugar Land Hospital y nniversar 10th A
Imperial Performing Arts Announces the Opening of Sugar Land’s First Professional Performing Arts Space
“A Holly Jolly Christmas”
Shopping Experience Debuting Preview Night! Featuring Three Fashion Shows! Fashion Show Contributors include Macy’s, Bobbi Brown for Macy’s, Beauty Indulgence Day Spa and Salon, and Sweet & Sassy Fashion Show Catered by Ray’s Grill/Watercress Catering
Thursday, November 4th, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Friday, November 5th, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday, November 6th, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Stafford Centre Performing Arts Theatre & Convention Center 10505 Cash Rd. in Stafford, Texas
Benefiting
Fort Bend County Charities Fashion Show tickets are $65 each. Preview Night Tickets are $50 each. General Admission Tickets are $10 each. For tickets, contact tickets@sugarplummarket.com. Beginning October 1st, general admission tickets available at Fort Bend County Randalls stores.
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The Imperial Theatre, located at 2210 Lone Star Drive in Sugar Land Town Square, next door to Z Gallerie, and across Lone Star Drive from Jos. A. Bank, is scheduled to open this fall. Sugar Land Mayor James Thompson, along with his wife Gay Thompson, serve together on IPA’s Advisory Board. “We are excited about Imperial Performing Arts. IPA will bring entertainment, education, and social and cultural development to us all. We are honored to participate in and enjoy the benefits of their success.” The Imperial Theatre is 5,446 square feet of prime retail space in Sugar Land’s most highly visible and well-traveled area – Sugar Land Town Square. The 2010-11 Season will include professional productions of opera, theatre, and concerts, film screenings, and arts education activities, and will feature local and national professional performing artists. The inaugural production will be Steel Magnolias, the stage play that inspired the award-winning film. Evening and matinee performances will run October 14 through 30. Individual tickets for Steel Magnolias will be available beginning in September. For more info, contact Edward Crowell, Executive Director of Imperial Performing Arts, at 281.277.7444, or email at ec@ theimperial.org. Visit IPA’s website at www.imperialperformingarts.org.
Elissa R. Wedemeyer O.D., FCOVD, FAAO
Therapeutic/Optometric Glaucoma Specialist Board Certified in Vision Therapy Reading/Visual Skills Program
The tea/auction committee: Front row, left to right: Gail Grace, club president, and Fran Ward. Back row left to right: Ginger Ekstrom, Mary Ann dePaula, Elizabeth Bueno, Paula Ruskan and Michelle Broussard.
Fort Bend Friends and Neighbors Fund Raiser Tea Fort Bend Friends and Neighbors presents “Taking Tea with the Mad Hatter” Thursday, November 4, 2010, 1:00-4:00 p.m. at Sweetwater Country Club. Tea and scones will be served at tables with elaborate teapot centerpieces, decorated by Cathy Gottlieb of Twenty Two Fifty Interiors in Sugar Land Town Square. The teapots will be raffled to become wonderful souvenirs of the day. A silent auction will raise funds for the scholarships to be awarded at the May luncheon to Fort Bend County students attending colleges in Fort Bend County. This is the only fundraiser for the year, so plan to buy gifts for friends and for the Christmas season. Entertainment will be provided by pianist Mary Perterson, an FBFN member and Fine Arts faculty member at HCC and active professional musician in the Houston area. She will be joined by singer Lee Chapman, a member of the Decibelles, a women’s barbershop chorus. So, dust off your old, new, or decorated hats for the hat contest and join us for the tea party and auction on November 4, 2010. Tickets are $25 for members and $30 for guests. Email Paula at waysandmeans@fbfn.org for more information.
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. • 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
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Headliners continued on page 72 www.fortbend
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FORT BEND NEW NEIGHBOR Headliners continued from page 71
2010 Fort Bend Fabulous! International Festival slated for November 6
Care to Fight Cancer Mammography and Ultrasound Specialists Move to Sugar Land With Breast Cancer Awareness month upon us, many women are thinking about their health and wellness- particularly regarding their chances of having or getting cancer. Along with receiving regular health check-ups, professionally administered breast examinations are important in early detection and successful treatment of breast cancer. Guidelines suggest that women seek their first mammogram around the age of 35, with a yearly exam beginning at the age of 40. However, women who have a family history of breast cancer are encouraged to begin exams 10 years earlier. Gail Burleson, R.T. of Mammography and Ultrasound Specialists understands the need for women to get these vital exams and offers a convenient and comfortable environment to administer them in. With Gail’s first location in Bellaire getting rave reviews, she has treated patients from around the Houston area and beyond. Now conveniently located in Sugar Land on Highway 6 near Flour Daniels, Gail and her staff welcomes anyone to make an appointment. It is estimated by the American Cancer Society that nearly 40,000 women will die from breast cancer this year. However, there are approximately 20 million survivors in the United States and currently, the rates of survival are increasing- a result of improved treatments and early detection. Mammograms and ultrasounds are the most accurate ways to detect breast cancer- both offered by Gail and her staff. Patients can make appointments with a doctor’s referral or self-referral. Patients may choose to bill their insurance and introductory discounts are available for self-pay individuals. For more information, call 281-240-0448 or visit www.houstonmammo.com.
Join Us in Our New Napa Lounge
Fort Bend Fabulous! International Festival and Model Search is now seeking models, volunteers, and entertainment groups. The 5th annual festival presented by the Fort Bend Education Foundation is scheduled to take place Saturday, November 6, 2010, from 10:00 am to 3:00 p.m. in Sugar Land Town Square. The event celebrates the tremendous diversity of cultures in the school district by highlighting the unique traditions, arts, and foods. The International Festival will showcase booths from 18 different countries from all over the world. Entertainment will be provided on the steps of City Hall by talented artists and students of FBISD schools as well as various local dance and music programs. There will be a cultural wedding/celebration fashion show featuring styles from around the world. Area restaurants will provide a sampling of international cuisines. Students will enjoy the Activities Booth where they can experience toys and games of different cultures. Elementary age children will receive a “Passport” for visiting each country and an international goody bag when they leave. The Fort Bend Education Foundation is partnering again with Page Parkes
Specials Monday $ 24.95
Steak and Lobster 6oz. Filet Mignon & 6oz. Lobster Tail With Choice of Potato and Vegetable of the Day
Full Bar & Live Music
Tuesday $49.90
Tuesday - Saturday
Dinner for Two Choose from the Chef ’s Menu
Food~Drinks and More
Monday-Thursday 11am - 11pm Friday 11am - Midnight Saturday 5pm - 1am Closed Sunday
14019 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, Texas 77478 • Call 281-277-2599 fort bend
magazine • October 2010
Wednesday Live Jazz 7:30pm to Close
Thursday Martini Night
with Entertainment by The Frank and Brenda Band
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
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“A Boutique for the Home”
• Holiday Home Decor • Call to set up an appointment for Custom Christmas Decorating • Custom Furniture • Full Service Design Studio • Unique Jewelry • One of a Kind Accessories & Gifts
Back row left to right: Mona Barai; Michael Liu; Howard Paul; Mike Chen; Nancy Huang; Stacy Bynes, FBEF International Festival Chairman; Sonal Bhuchar; Janet Sides; Kelly Metzger; Jennifer Liu; front row left to right: Nappinnai Natarajan; Abla Amin; Tracy Feng; Debra Duncan, Host Great Day Houston; Aruna Kovvali; Shefali Jhaveri; Claudia Figoli; Jane Vaucher; Linda Hancock
Corporation to conduct the model search. Page Parkes is the largest model and talent agency in the southwest United States and has been instrumental in launching the careers of many famous faces. The model search is open to children between the ages of 5-18 who reside in Fort Bend County. For an application visit our website at www.fortbendisd. com/foundation. Applications will be accepted on October 16th at Sugar Land Town Square. The model and talent search finale will take place from 12:001:00 during the festival. Representatives from Page Parkes will judge the contestants on the runway during a fashion show and on their speaking presentation. Four winners will each receive a $1,500 scholarship to Page Parkes and a professional photo shoot complete with hair, makeup, and three looks. Any individuals or groups interested in representing their country at this event should contact the Fort Bend Education Foundation at 281-634-1110. Booths are limited and will be assigned on a first come basis. The Fort Bend Education Foundation provides opportunities to enrich and enhance the quality of education for all Fort Bend ISD students through their Grants to Teachers and Schools program. Since its inception in 1992, the Fort Bend Education Foundation has awarded over $2.8 million dollars to teachers and schools in FBISD. For more information regarding the Foundation, please visit www. fortbendisd.com/foundation. Headliners continued on page 74
281.265.2250
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This award-winning elegant French chateau is truely Fort Bend’s finest! This stunning masterpiece is on one of the most beautiful 1+ acre golf course lots in all of Sweetwater. Built to the absolute highest standards with impeccable attention to details, this exceptional residence is a rare opportunity to live in the ultimate dream. $3,495,000
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American Red Cross’ Super Ball X Announces Honorary Chairmen The American Red Cross Super Ball X committee has kicked off the new season with an exciting addition to their team roster. Ron and Juliana Ewer will serve as the Honorary Chairmen for this year’s tenth anniversary event scheduled for Saturday, January 22, 2011 at Safari Texas Ranch in Richmond. The Ewers, owners of Legacy Ford Lincoln Mercury located in Rosenberg, have been long-standing supporters of the American Red Cross. As community leaders and employers in Fort Bend County, Ron and Juliana recognize the importance of the life-saving training that the American Red Cross provides and have invested resources in not only supporting the American Red Cross Super Ball, but in ensuring that their staff are trained to save lives and prevent illness. The Ewers have been active community partners since they came to Fort Bend just a few years ago, and their support has made a substantial impact on the community. “Ron and Juliana are always among the first to step up to the plate when we kick off Super Ball each year, and with this being our 10th anniversary event, we are pleased to honor the Ewer’s as this year’s Honorary Chairmen,” said Sandra Startz, Managing Director of
May W. Tape, DDS, Cindy Reaves and the American Red Cross. “We are deCarol Whileyman. All three coaches are lighted to recognize them for their comlong-time supporters of the American mitment and support of the American Red Cross. Red Cross’ mission. To purchase tickets to the American This year’s proceeds from the AmeriRed Cross Super Ball X, to serve as a can Red Cross Super Ball X will supcommittee volunteer, donate an auction port service delivery, program operaitem or to participate as a sponsor to the tions and general operating needs for event, contact the American Red Cross the American Red Cross Southwestern Southwestern Branch at 281.342.9480 Branch and sponsorships range from or e-mail sstartz@ghac.org. $1,000 to $10,000. In addition to receiving tickets to the event, sponsors at the $2,500 and above level receive Standard First Aid with Adult CPR Courses for their employees. Sponsorship levels outlining benefits and forms are available online at www. houstonredcross. org/super-ball or by contacting the American Red Cross office at 281.342.9480. Serving in The American Red Cross Super Ball X Honorary Chairmen Juliana and Ron Ewer along with Head Coach May W. Tape, DDS, American Red Cross Managing their second Director Sandra Startz and Head Coach Cindy Reaves gear up for the tenth season as Head anniversary of the best tailgate party in Fort Bend County – Super Ball X! The Coaches for the tenth anniversary event benefiting the American Red Cross is scheduled for tenth anniverSaturday, January 22, 2011 at Safari Texas Ranch. Tickets and information are available by calling 291.342.9480 or by e-mailing sstartz@ghac.org. sary event are
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Mammography and Ultrasound Specialists Full Service Women Imaging • Digital Mammography • Ultrasound
Recycle For Reuse on October 9, 2010 Donate gently used items for reuse Keep Sugar Land Beautiful (KSLB) will hold its 7th Annual Recycle for Reuse Event on Saturday, October 9 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm in partnership with the Fort Bend Education Foundation and the Fort Bend Women’s Center. Please plan to donate your gently used items for reuse including: Books, Games, Puzzles, Flash Cards, Videos, DVDs, CDs, Eyeglasses, Hearing aids, Hearing aid batteries, Clothing, Furniture, Household Items and Cell Phones. Classroom items will be donated to Fort Bend ISD teachers. Eyeglasses, hearing aids and hearing aid batteries will be donated to the Lions Club. Furniture, clothing and household items will be donated to the Fort Bend Women’s Center. Cell phones will be responsibly recycled by Keep Sugar Land Beautiful. Please bring clean, gently used items to the Fort Bend ISD Administration Parking Lot at 16431 Lexington Blvd, Sugar Land from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Saturday, October 9. For more information, please visit www.kslb.org. Keep Sugar Land Beautiful is a 501c3 non-profit affiliate of Keep America Beautiful and Keep Texas Beautiful dedicated to educating and engaging everyone to take responsibility for the environmental health of our community.
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The Address for Exclusive Eyewear
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281-265-2000 www.Eyetrendstownsquare.com
16200 City Walk Sugar Land, Texas 77479
Dr. George N. Zaibaq Voted Houston Top Doc 2009-2010 In support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, with mention of this ad, we will donate a percentage of our proceeds to cancer research.
We accept most medical & vision insurances
Headliners continued on page 77 www.fortbend
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Missouri City Girls Start First Local Teen Crohn’s Disease/Colitis Support Group
Senules – Liska Wedding
E
mily Ann Senules and Justin William Liska were united in marriage on Saturday, July 31, 2010 at three o’clock in the afternoon at St. Lukes United Methodist Church in Houston. Dr. Tom Pace officiated the double-ring ceremony. Following the ceremony, the bride’s parents hosted a reception at the Junior League of Houston. On the eve of the wedding, the groom’s parents hosted a rehearsal dinner at the Grotto Restaurant. Emily is the daughter of Ed and Denise Senules of the Woodlands, Texas. She is a 2003 graduate of Mandeville High School in Mandeville, Louisiana. She attended Louisiana State University where she was a member of Kappa Delta sorority. Emily earned her bachelors degree in biology from Texas A&M University in 2007. Justin is the son of Bill and Denise Liska of Sugar Land. He graduated from Clements High School in 2002. Justin earned his bachelor’s degree in business management from Texas A&M University in 2006 and was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. Both Emily and Justin are currently fourth year dental students at the UT Health Science Center in Houston. Following a honeymoon to Bora Bora, Emily and Justin are residing in Houston with their cat, Sergio.
To advertise your Engagement / Wedding, Call 281-690-4242
This is a Cinderella story with a twist. Once upon a time, there were two Missouri City teens that had never met, but had so much in common. Jenni McMichael and Jennifer Oates not only shared the same first name, they were two high school honor students with a passion for music. Unfortunately, that is not where the similarities ended. In the summer of 2009, both were diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease. Crohn’s is a chronic disease with no known cure that causes inflammation of the digestive track. The girls finally met earlier this year after a series of coincidences involving Jenni’s godmother. After their initial meeting, the teens felt fortunate that they could talk to a peer who understood how they were feeling both physically and emotionally. Jenni and Jennifer many times felt alone and isolated while suffering with the symptoms and life complications associated with the disease. According to the girls, their teenage peers could not sympathize with them since they did not understand the illness or the extent of the pain and constant discomfort they were experiencing. Both girls had been enduring excruciating pain, had numerous doctors’ visits, frequent and invasive medical procedures, and had an inability or lack of desire to eat. They also experienced a high number of school absences, embarrassing moments with peers, sometimes within a classroom, and missed many extracurricular activities and social events. After meeting and sharing their stories, the girls appreciated the fact that they found someone who understood what they had been experiencing as a result of Crohn’s. They also agreed that a local group was needed to provide support to teens with similar problems. Wanting to share what they gained and learned from each other, Jenni and Jennifer decided to create Texas Teens with Crohn’s/Colitis (TTCC) Support and Awareness Group. TTCC is the first local support group of its kind for teens diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease and/or colitis. The primary mission of TTCC is to encourage teens, grades nine through fort bend
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Jenni McMichael and Jennifer Oates. Photograph by Luisa O’Connor Photography.
12, who have been diagnosed, to share personal experiences and to learn ways to better manage their disease and its affect on their lives. The meetings are social in nature and held at local venues. Another goal of TTCC is to promote community awareness of the diseases in teens with the goal of providing information that could lead to early and proper diagnosis. Both girls had no known family history of the disease which made the diagnosis that much more unexpected. Since the group was formed, TTCC members, consisting of both boys and girls, have met for activities such as laser tag, bowling and ice skating. The teens may choose to share their experiences with their diseases before, during or after their activities. A Facebook page has also been set up as another vehicle that allows teens to share their thoughts, as well as learn about upcoming TTCC events. In addition to the support group, the girls formed a TTCC Team to participate in the recent Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) fundraising walk. Although not affiliated with CCFA, the girls raised $2,365.00 for the organization and Crohn’s/colitis research. Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis are both classified as inflammatory bowel diseases. Those interested in joining this teen support group can visit “TTCC (Texas Teens with Crohn’s/Colitis) Support and Awareness Group” on Facebook for further information and upcoming activities, or e-mail TTCC at texasteenswithcrohnscolitis@comcast.net.
Lone Star Exchange Club takes “Voices Of A Child Tour” The Lone Star Exchange Club of Richmond visited Child Advocates of Fort Bend to learn more about them through their “Voices of a Child Tour” last week. Ruthanne Mefford, Executive Director, opened by informing Exchangites that Child Advocates of Fort Bend had provided a voice for more than 8,000 children since 1991. She commented about the growth in the number of cases seen in Fort Bend County. Last year Child Advocates of Fort Bend served over 1,300 children which is up 30% from the previous year. All the indicators for this year are showing another 30% increase on top of the previous increase. Lone Star Exchange Club members were then given a tour of the facilities and listened to staff and volunteers relate some of the stories of the children who had been abused. Child Abuse Prevention is a major program of service for all Exchange Clubs across America, so this presentation and tour was extremely important for this newly formed Exchange Club to experience. If you would like to know more about the Lone Star Exchange Club, call 281 239 1311.
420 Sugar Creek Blvd Sugar Land, TX 77478 Main Clubhouse: 281.494.9131 Golf Shop: 281.494.9135
It’s That Time Again... book your holiday party today! Book your Holiday Party Now while dates are still available! Our space is filling up quickly. Avoid the rush, book your event now.
Call today: 281-494-9131 Whether it’s business or social, we will deck the halls and ensure that this year’s party at SUGAR CREEK COUNTRY CLUB will be one to remember!
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FIGHT CANCER Medical Oncology & Hematology Arvind Bhandari, M.D. Robert Furse, M.D. Lawrence Foote, M.D.
Caesar Tin-U, M.D. Sanjay Sethi, M.D. Meghana Bhandari, M.D.
Gynecologic Oncology
Radiation Oncology
Aparna Kamat, M.D.
Vivek Kavadi, M.D.
Breast Surgeon Chayo Huff, Tracey Shaw, Gena Ricklefsen, Yvonne Ramsey, Lori Platt & Dawn Carden of the Lone Star Exchange Club of Richmond tour Child Advocates of Fort Bend.
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Jaime Elizabeth Terry, M.D. Texas Oncology–Sugar Land 1350 First Colony Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77479 Ph. (281) 277-5200 www.fortbend
.com • October 2010
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Golf Classic Chairs; pictured left to right Rob & Bibi McDonald and Nancy & Craig Popp.
St. Laurence Catholic School 16th Annual Golf Classic Register now to play in the 16th annual St. Laurence Catholic School Golf Classic set for Monday, November 1 at Sweetwater Country Club. The St. Laurence Knights of Columbus are presenting the tournament chaired by Craig and Nancy Popp and Rob and Bibi McDonald. The entry fee includes lunch, golf and cart fees, beverages, awards reception after the tournament, and goodie bags. Foursome teams start at $1,000 and individual entries are $200. The committee is excited to premiere a new sponsor this year, Mercedes Benz of Sugar Land. The first person to get a “hole in one” on the Mercedes’ sponsored par 3 hole will win a brand new 2011 Mercedes Benz! More than $45,000 was raised last year to benefit the tuition assistance program at St. Laurence. This is the only fundraiser that is solely dedicated to tuition assistance at the school. For more information, call Laurel Keller, Development Coordinator, at 281-980-0500. Entry deadline for sign production is October 22 and for players, October 29. Brochures are available at www.stlaurence.org/school.
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The Andreason Law Firm Now you don’t have to drive to Houston for experienced Estate Planning.
Kurt M. Andreason, Attorney-at-Law Board Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in Estate Planning, Probate Law and Commercial Real Estate. 4840 Sweetwater Blvd, Suite B (at rear), Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-265-1561 www.andreasonlawfirm.com
25 years experience in Texas
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animals lack intelligence! Diane Lane is absolutely perfect as Penny Tweedy. Her performance as the intelligent and fiercely willed owner is a sure fire Oscar contender. Her chemistry with the enigmatic John Malkovich is simply brilliant from start to finish and does nothing but enhance all elements of the film. Supporting characters are just as well done, particularly Kevin Connolly’s portrayal as Bill Nack and James Cromwell in the role of Diane Lane. Babe. The film’s director, Photo by John Bramley ©Disney Enterprises, Inc. Randall Wallace, does All Rights Reserved. a tremendous job not overdoing it with the horse racing sequences. The segments we do see are extremely well done and don’t seem overtly ‘in your face.’ Wallace keeps the pacing of the film on track all the while providing the true story of arguably the greatest athlete of the modern era. Secretariat is perfect for the entire family.
By Nick Nicholson
B
ased on the remarkable true story, Secretariat chronicles the spectacular journey of the 1973 Triple Crown winner. Housewife and mother Penny Chenery (Diane Lane) agrees to take over her ailing father’s Virginia-based Meadow Stables despite her lack of horse-racing knowledge. Against all odds, Chenery, with the help of veteran trainer Lucien Laurin (John Malkovich), manages to navigate the male-dominated business, ultimately fostering the first Triple Crown winner in 25 years and what may be the greatest racehorse of all time. The film comes out of the gate with the death of Penny’s mother and father. She quickly learns the ins and outs of the horse industry, all the while taking on the management of The Meadow Stables. She constantly struggles with providing her family with the attention they deserve. Secretariat’s segments are just phenomenal and his birth is awe inspiring. The expressions from the horse, particularly his eyes, would provide a rather sound argument against those that say
SECRETARIAT Starring: Diane Lane, James Cromwell and John Malkovich Director: Randall Wallace Company: Disney Now Showing: In Local Theaters MPAA Rating: PG Grade: A Diane Lane and John Malkovich Photo by John Bramley ©Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
(L-R) Diane Lane, Nelsan Ellis, Otto Thorwarth, John Malkovich. Photo by John Bramley ©Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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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October 28 through November 7, 2010 shop. save money. save lives. 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.
A little addition. New baby means new responsibilities. Will you be ready for all this? Contact your agent today to find out how FarmersÂŽ can help. Tallas Insurance 281-935-2896 jtallas@farmersagent.com 9100 SW Fwy Suite 255 Houston, TX 77074
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Coming April 2011
2011/2012 NEWCOMER GUIDE AND VISITOR DIRECTORY
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Call for Advertising Rates
281-690-4242 Deadline to place an ad: March 4, 2011 (2009-2010 Issue)
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Texian Market Days: Historical Fun for the Whole Family! On Saturday, October 23, experience the sights, smells and activities of days gone by at the 27th annual Texian Market Days festival. Get involved in the Texian politics and skirmishes of the 1830s. Visit Civil War camps. Learn about proper Victorian etiquette of the 1890s and twirl a lasso with the cowboys at the 1930s round-up! The family-friendly living history festival, which will take place on Saturday, October 23, features interactive activities, Civil War camps and battle re-enactments, historic home tours, archeological digs, food and live entertainment. “Texian Market Days helps history come alive for our visitors—and it’s fun for the whole family!” said Executive Director Candace Jones. Held at the George Ranch Historical Park, the festival is roughly divided into four historical time periods – the 1830s, 1860s, 1890s and 1930s. Early settler life is featured at the 1830s site; activities include pioneer food demonstrations, pioneer activities, Texas Revolution battle skirmishes and ongoing tours of the “dog-trot” log cabin. Picture life in post-Civil War Texas at the 1860s site. Activities include Confederate and Union soldier camps, a Civil War battle re-enactment, historic food tasting, prairie home tours and interactive one-room schoolhouse programs. Experience Victorian splendor by vis-
Enjoy live period-correct music at the Texian Market Days festival. Photo by Roy Kasmir.
Visit a Civil War encampment and enlist to join the army! Photo by Roy Kasmir.
Learn early pioneer skills at the 1830s Jones Stock Farm site during the Texian Market Days festival. Also, get involved in Texian politics and skirmishes while you’re there!
iting the 1890s area. Visitors can tour the grandiose Davis mansion, an original structure, watch live blacksmithing demonstrations, walk through the family cemetery and learn to write with quill pens. The 1890s Sharecropper Farm is part of the 1890s complex, and portrays what life was like as a freed slave during the Victorian era. The chuckwagon camp
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is also set up with food samples hot off the open fire. The 1930s site area features a real archeological dig and tours of the George family’s original ranching home. Watch as the cowboys give cattle-roping and dipping vat demonstrations, too! The Fort Bend County Museum Association is currently seeking festival sponsors and vendors. Call (281) 342-1256 for more information. Adult volunteers are also needed Texian Market Days will take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the George Ranch Historical Park, 10215 FM 762 in Richmond. Tickets can be pre-reserved and are $10 for adults and $5 for children ages five to 15. Children four and under are free. For more information, visit www.texianmarketdays.com or call (281) 343-0218.
Accessorize for Less!
Be a Friend, Bring a Friend to the Literacy Council’s Fall Friend-Raiser We’ve all heard of a fundraiser and likely have attended one. But, what about a “friend-raiser?” The Literacy Council of Fort Bend County (LCFBC) is hosting it’s Fall Friend-Raiser to – you guessed it – honor old friends and make some new ones. The community is invited to this free event to learn more about how this important organization impacts the lives of so many. The LCFBC’s Fall Friend-Raiser is scheduled for Tuesday, October 19th from 8:30 to 9:30 am at their offices located at 12530 Emily Court in Sugar Land. Friends can tour the facility, enjoy breakfast, meet supporters and staff, and most importantly, learn about this vital organization. The event will also honor LCFBC’s donors and sponsors for the past year. The LCFBC is a nonprofit educational program dedicated to helping adults of all ages improve their lives and their communities by learning reading, writing, math and problem-solving skills. The organization is committed to ending inter-generational cycles of illiteracy in Fort Bend County by improving adult literacy skills and generating community-wide literacy awareness. Well-trained and supported volunteers work one-on-one with adults needing to strengthen their basic literacy skills and on a small group basis with those learning to speak English as a second language. Attendance to the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County’s Fall FriendRaiser is free; however, reservations are required. To reserve your friendly spot, call 281.240.8181.
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L&M Trading, Co. 6302 Hwy 6 South, Ste. M Missouri City, TX 77459 281-499-0936
Mon-Sat 10am - 7pm • Sun: Closed
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www.lmtradingtx.com • Retail/Wholesales Welcome (Tax I.D. Required) Not combined with any other offers. Exp. 10/31/10
SUGAR LAND VEIN SPECIALISTS
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Headliners continued on page 84 www.fortbend
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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
Dr. Charles A. Murphy, Sr. Pastor
281-403-4994 www.hbctx.org 2223 FM 1092 Missouri City, Texas 77459
The Finale – All the dancers and Mr. Mahesh Mahbubani, the director. Photo by Navin Mediwala.
Bollywood Blast 2010: Life is a Movie Bollywood dance is a difficult topic to discuss because it is hard to pin down. Its exact definition, geographical distribution, and stylistic characteristics are amorphous. However, in spite of all of this, it is surprisingly recognizable. Unlike the west, where the “musical” is considered to be just one of numerous genres, South Asians have a very difficult time conceiving of any theatrical endeavor that does not have music and dance. The audience at this year’s Bollywood Blast was shown just that through the original musical entitled “Life is a Movie.” Bollywood Blast, in its fifth year, was presented at Miller Outdoor Theatre on September 5, 2010 in front of an audience of approximately 7000 people which included such dignitaries as Dr. Renu Kahtur, Chancellor of the University of Houston System and Mrs. Sonal Bhuchar, President of the FBISD School Board. The characters and plot from the musical “Life is a Movie” came to life before the audiences’ eyes in this dazzling, musical stage spectacular where the audience was treated to a unique view of the “reel” fairytale of happily ever after. The stage show featured larger-thanlife set designs, to popular Bollywood songs from all ages, vivid projected backgrounds, and elaborate costumes all depicting the story of love, followed by the union of the characters in a grand Indian wedding. The two-hour musical preserved the humor and heart of happily ever after and explored the true meaning of love fort bend
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jealous adversaries to best friends with an unbreakable bond. The musical was a mega entertainer with over 75 dazzling dancers that include all emotions of human life in larger than life renditions of dramatic song and dance scenes. Dr Subodh Bhuchar returned this year as the narrator –Suby- with a special appearance by Dr Vinod Bhuchar and Dr. Ratna Kumar as the parents. Over 75 dazzling dancers performed to latest Bollywood songs portraying “Life is a Movie”. Mr. Mahesh Mahbubani, the director and main choreographer of the show, said, “The show is about celebrating the community spirit through DANCE. Every, year we raise the bar on the performance skills, and this year the students have superseded themselves. Bollywood Blast is a platform that allows us to bring people of all age groups together through the medium of live performance. This original musical was with colorful costumes, vibrant visual, and magical lighting. It was a show like no other, Bollywood Blast.” This entertaining evening for the entire family at the Miller Outdoor Theatre was presented by Samskriti-Society for Indian Performing Arts for the 5th year in a row. Samskriti Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to making the traditional performing arts of India. For more info, contact Anjali Center for Performing Arts at 281 265 ARTS or anjalicenter.org. For more info about Samskriti-Society for Indian Performing Arts, visit http://www. samskritihouston.org/.
Dr. Joe Roman III, M.D., P.A. Obstetrician and Gynecologist Board Certified, Fellow ACOG, Member TMA
Serving Katy and Fort Bend County
281-398-8770
707 S. Fry Rd., Ste 385 • Katy, Texas, 77450 www.myownobgyn.com Lone Star Exchange Club participates in ‘Walk With Pride’ The Lone Star Exchange Club of Richmond took part in their first community service project since forming earlier this summer. The Lone Star Exchangites volunteered at the Payless Store in Brazos Town Center where they escorted, measured and fitted approximately 250 of nearly 1,000 children countywide who received a pair of brand new shoes to start the school year off on the ‘right foot’. The “Walk with Pride” Shoe Program donates a new pair of school shoes for school age children from area low income families. The program is made possible through donations by a number of individuals, businesses, community organizations, the Fort Bend County’s Health & Human Services Department and Payless Shoe Stores, in Rosenberg and Sugar Land. The children left their parents at the store door and were escorted an Exchange volunteer to get measured and then pick out a pair of shoes. This was a very rewarding event for the Lone Star Exchange members. One young boy entered the store and announced it was his birthday, and he became an instant celebrity as the Exchangites cheered and sang “Happy Birthday”. He left the store with a huge smile, a new pair of Star Wars shoes and a bundle of new socks saying “I’m a very lucky boy, thank you.” At the end of the event, the Exchange Club was given a stack of handwritten thank you notes from the children. For more info about the Lone Star Exchange Club, please call 281 239 1311.
Barbara Montgomery, GRI, ABR
cell: 713-898-3938 281-980-5050
WWW.BARBARAJMONTGOMERY.COM E-MAIL: MONTGOMB@GARYGREENE.COM
VENETIAN ESTATES - A must see! Many new beautiful changes! Newly painted neutral colors. Reduced almost $100K! Gorgeous new hardwoods in master suite. Phenomenal for a family & entertaining. One of the best views in VE- see birds flock in nightly on the private reserve- no one will ever build behind you! Huge lap pool. $$$ Landscaping- huge trees- hurricane shadessport court- too may amenities!! Seller will consider lease. $ 789,500. Call Barbara Montgomery 713-898-3938.
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Headliners continued on page 87 www.fortbend
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832-788-2294
BOO!
It’s Music, Magic and a Halloween Costume Contest with The Fort Bend Symphony
P
ut on your favorite costume, grab your family and friends and join the Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra on Sunday, Oct. 17 for Hauntcert, the season opener that gives a musical nod to the magic and mystery of Halloween. Under the direction of Dr. Hector Agüero, Hauntcert begins at 2 p.m. at the Stafford Centre and includes musical selections from popular films and music videos, as well as a costume contest for all ages.
Héctor Agüero
Sunday, October 17, 2010 • 2:00 pm
Music Director
Stafford Center • 10505 Cash Road • Stafford, TX 77477
Order tickets online at
www.fbso.org
Enter to win a pair of tickets to Hauntcert Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra tuba player Coleman Locke prepares for Hauntcert, the orchestra’s season opener on October 17.
or call 281-276-9642.
at www.fbso.org/focus.
Children 12 and under FREE!
Deadline to enter is Oct. 11.
Music from Harry Potter, Michael Jackson’s Thriller, The Sorcerer’s Apprentice and much more...
Two winners will be randomly selected from all entries and notified on Oct. 12. Two e-tickets will be emailed to each winner.
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Firethorne Breaks Ground on 430-Acre Firethorne West; Katy/Fulshear Community Exceeds New Home Sale Records in 2010
FBSO flutist and “Bunny Doctor” Serena Landen and daughters Alicia and Rachel are dressed and ready for the symphony’s Hauntcert concert. Concert-goers are encouraged to wear a costume and to enter the costume contest that will be held during intermission.
Orchestra members will highlight their creativity by wearing costumes and look forward to concert-goers doing the same. A costume contest, held during intermission, will add to the fun with prizes awarded for the most creative costumes in the following categories: ages 6 and under, ages 7-12, ages 13 and up and group/family. Children and adults alike will delight in hearing the Harry Potter theme music and they’ll probably chuckle at the meow-like sounds in Leroy Anderson’s The Waltzing Cat. Other musical selections include Mussorgsky’s Night on Bald Mountain, Saint-Saens’ Danse Macabre, Dukas’ Sorcerer’s Apprentice and Michael Jackson’s Thriller. Agüero said the idea for Hauntcert came from his days at Texas Tech University where the orchestra held a yearly Halloween concert. “It was the biggest concert of the year and I’m glad that the Fort Bend Symphony can bring this fun concept to our community.” Adult tickets to Hauntcert begin at just $10 and are available at www. fbso.org or by calling 281.276.9642. Discounts are provided for students, seniors over 55 and military with I.D. Children 12 and under are free, but need to have reserved seats. Two lucky Focus readers will also win a pair of tickets. See ad for details. The Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra is now in its 19th season of enriching the lives of Fort Bend area residents with live symphonic music. The full-size, all-volunteer orchestra represents an abundant cross-section of local talent.
Firethorne, which in 2010 has exceeded all of its previous January-to-July new home sales records, has broken ground on its newest section, Firethorne West. The development’s westward expansion comprises 430 acres within the 1,400acre master-designed community in Katy/ Fulshear. “Firethorne’s steady growth in its first five years, with more than 1,000 home closings to date, paves the way for us to move forward on this next phase of development,” said Firethorne General Manager Wayne Meyer. Plans call for the construction of such premium resident amenities as a Competitive Swim Center with a regulation lap pool and clubhouse, community center, landscaped park and playground area. There will be 1,400 home sites in Firethorne West, in addition to 530 home sites on acreage under development across FM 1463 that will include three lakes with water features. Firethorne’s 178 new home sales in first seven months of 2010 compare to 147 sales over the same period in 2007, its previous record high. Meyer attributes Firethorne’s strong sales to the highly acclaimed schools and continued economic growth in Katy and Fulshear, highlighted by the local expansion of three major Houston hospitals, plus continued employee relocations in West Houston in the energy industry. Lamar C.I.S.D. (Consolidated Independent School District) will serve Firethorne West families. Meyer noted that Huggins Elementary, Briscoe Junior High, Wertheimer Middle and Foster High School rank favorably to Firethorne’s zoned Katy I.S.D. schools in the annual rankings published by the Houston Chronicle. The Firethorne West sections will feature 50- and 60-foot by 120- to 130-foot lots. The new home sites east of FM 1463 will be 70- and 80-foot by 130-foot in size. Homes in the new sections should be up by the fourth quarter of 2010. Model homes are open in Firethorne Model Parks I and II. www.fortbend
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Firethorne is breaking ground on its newest section, the 430-acre Firethorne West, which will feature such premium amenities as a Competitive Swim Center with regulation lap pool and clubhouse and community center. Firethorne West is located within the Firethorne 1,400-acre master-designed community in Katy/Fulshear. Firethorne West will have 1,400 home sites, in addition to the 530 sites on acreage under development across FM 1463 that will include three lakes with water features.
The Firethorne Competitive Swim Center further demonstrates the community’s ongoing commitment to residents’ individual and team sports and fitness. All Firethorne amenities, including the Swim Center, resort-style swimming pool, Fitness Center, regulation lacrosse playing fields and tennis courts, are open to Firethorne West residents. Firethorne, host of the Katy Triathlon at Firethorne October 24, 2010, blends with the best nature has to offer: 150 acres devoted to parks and recreational amenities, a 12-acre lake with surrounding greenbelt, hike/bike trails, parks and playgrounds, discovery-rich wildlife observation area and a natural bird habitat. Firethorne combines the vibrancy of West Houston with the small-town charm of Katy/Fulshear. It is strategically located on FM 1463 near the crossroads of the 1-10 West corridor, the Westpark Tollway and the Grand Parkway. To tour Firethorne West, take I-10 West, exit Pin Oak to FM 1463 and go west on South Firethorne Rd., call the Visitor Center, 281-693-1011, or visit www. firethorne.info. Headliners continued on page 89
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Headliners continued on page 87
Minute Maid hosts SecondAnnual Holiday Soiree during City of Sugar Land Tree Lighting Minute Maid is proud to host the second Annual Holiday Soiree during the City of Sugar Land’s Tree Lighting in Sugar Land Town Square. The community is invited to purchase tickets to the event, which will take place on the evening of December 2 on the fourth floor of the Minute Maid building. Guests will enjoy an evening of Holiday festivities with a bird’s eye view of the tree lighting below, including Santa’s entrance and the lighting of the 40’ Christmas Tree. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Minute Maid 3-Family Fund. This year’s recipients are the Fort Bend Rainbow Room, The United Way and The Wounded Warrior and Family Support Center at Brooke Army Medical Center. The Soiree will boast a sampling of sips and bites from Sugar Land Town Square restaurants, and Mayor of Sugar Land James Thompson, City of Sugar Land representatives and special Houston Astros guests of honor will be on hand to celebrate with guests. In addition to the best seats in the house for the tree lighting, a ticket to the Soiree will come with a VIP parking spot, festive activities for little ones and the opportunity to bid in a silent auction. The auction will include Sugar Land Town Square retailer gift baskets, Houston Astros memorabilia, a first pitch at an Astros game and exclusive tickets to the Houston Astros Diamond Club. All proceeds from the auction will benefit the Minute Maid 3-Family Fund. For more information, please visit MinuteMaidHolidaySoiree.com.
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Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance and Aliana Business Blender
Jeffrey McLellan, Andi Wallis & Robin Kalina.
Anthony Francis, Jeff & Ann Council.
Travis Stone & the staff of Aliana.
Mia Monroe, Kevin Patton, Justin Vickrey & Ricardo Aguilar.
Travis Stones & Gail Parker.
Wade Perry, Stacy Martinez, Gilbert Limones & Dena Perry.
Dan McDonald & Austin Evans.
Ron Voyles, Kamal Ariss, Jim Miller & Mike O’Connell.
Hyatt Place Sugar Land Meet and Greet
Jim Cihak & Linda Cahue.
Woodbine Development Corporation and Hyatt Place Sugar Land recently hosted a Meet and Greet event at Post Oak Grill in Lake Pointe Town Center to introduce new General Manager Michael Gleeson to the Sugar Land community. The hotel is scheduled to open this November. Pictured left to right are Don Smithers, Mayor Pro Tem Thomas Abraham, Don Olson, Michael Gleeson, Russell Jones, Sugar Land Mayor James Thompson, Jacqueline Baly-Chaumette, Linda Cahue, King Scovell and Allen Bogard. fort bend
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Jessica Kij & Ken Harris.
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October 2010 Winner “Cottonwood Borer” By Shari Lindsay Congratulations Shari, 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.” 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”. Please make sure to send some basic information about every
www.fortbend
photo you submit such as: who, where, when, a title, your name and daytime phone number. To submit a print or digital photo by mail, include your name, telephone number and a stamped self-addressed envelope, if you would like it returned. Fort Bend Focus Magazine Photo Contest 4655 Techniplex Dr. Suite 400, Stafford, TX 77477 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.
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“Colors and Trends” Benefiting Impact a Hero
Teacher Celebrates Retirement
Beth Schwanke, Jim Hoelker & Arlene Rolsen.
Karen Johnston, Emelia Appel & Veronica Paschall.
Kay Slack Beard recently retired from her job at Dulles High School.
Birthday Celebration for Chef Rey
Dianne Terry & Sally Morse
Happy Birthday Chef Rey!
Patti Parish-Kaminski, Chef Rey, Lisa Fredrickson & Jacquie Chaumette.
International Social Group’s “Eat, Love, Pray” Party
The International Social Group held a “Eat, Love, Pray” party which was themed from the hit movie. Guests and members arrived in attire to match countries visited in the movie and enjoyed cuisine from those regions while being entertained by an Indian dancer with a “Bollywood” type of Indian dance. This intriguing group, has worked as a team for a decade and meets monthly with socials of various themes. Participants enjoy socializing, learning about other foods, cultures and lands. Contact the coordinator atvmlatham@yahoo.com or 281-384-4006 for details on joining this interesting and dynamic social group. fort bend
magazine • October 2010
Brewing Help For Kids in Need: Friends of CAFB Fall Membership Coffee Set for October 19th
Friends of Child Advocates of Fort Bend (CAFB) is hosting its annual membership coffee on October 19th from 10am – 11:30am at 834 Bel Mar in Venetian Estates. Guests will enjoy coffee and pastries, informative tips on Fall decorating trends courtesy of Teena and Lauren Caldwell from Twenty-Two Fifty Interiors and Gifts. Pictured are Joyce Ericsson, Pat Somers, Linda McLellan, Pam Gray, Janice King and Gerri Brecker. For more information, contact Pam Duggan Gray at 713-851-7293 or email pamdg@wt.net.
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Focus Readers’ Photo Album October Runners-up to our Amateur Photo Submission See this month’s photo contest winner on page 91
“Mount Cevedale, Italian Alps, Summer 2009” By Chris Seitz
“Arenal Eruption” By Matt Diehl
“Street of Copacabana, Lake Titicaca, Bolivia” By Theresa Hollaway www.fortbend
“What you Say?” By Julia Garza .com • October 2010
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M edical F ocus
Headliners continued on page 89
Invitational for a Cure: Breast Cancer Janet Ely was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2001. The Janet Ely Invitational originated as a means to help a team member with breast cancer in 2003 celebrate her birthday. With the first invitational being such a big success, it was obvious to everyone involved that this invitational had the potential to grow into something real, something permanent. So, plans for the 2nd Annual Invitational were under way. Currently, the 7th Annual Tournament is being planned. Through this and other Janet Ely supported events; over $100,000 (with more than $19,000 being raised at the 2009 Invitational) has been donated to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Today, the Invitational hopes to honor all men and women struggling with this fight in hopes of finding a cure through research. A cure can and must be found as Ely was again diagnosed but this time as stage IV Metastatic breast cancer in 2009. Every year, over 40,000 women in the United States will lose their life due to breast cancer. There will be over 211,000 new cases diagnosed in 2010. There must be more funding for research to eradicate this deadly disease. A cure is possible with your help. The 7th Annual Janet Ely Invitational will held October 16, 2010 at The Club in New Territory (Sugar Land, Texas) during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The invitational will include a prayer vigil and balloon release (at approximately 7 pm) , silent auction from 5 pm – 8 pm followed by a live auction at 8 pm. This year, and for many years to come, the Janet Ely Invitational will have men and women participating in this event for the ultimate item, a cure for breast cancer. With the help of the Players, Corporate and Individual Sponsorships (like Extreme Pita, New Territory Residential Community Association, The Phoenix Design Group-Charles Litchfield, Wholesale Services-Ronn Goodier, and Minute Maid), more and more proceeds can be raised to help with research. The event
Back to School Immunizations - 101
is open the public and admission is free. All Ely asks in return is to have fun and perhaps make a donation towards her cause. “This event is the best way I know how to raise money and to be assured a great time while celebrating another year of life!,” says Ely. Nearly 10 years ago, three local women, one being Ely, met to talk about one disease that changed their lives forever: breast cancer. By the end of the conversation, they made it their purpose that no woman had to face breast cancer alone. Ely, Sara Plant and Ronda Goodier started a group in their living rooms to share the support and information they craved. The name of the group became Survivors Offering Support (S.O.S.) and now this group is being sponsored by Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. For more information or further dates, please contact the Spiritual Care Department at 281-2747164. So, not only does Ely raise money for research, she also gives her time to help other people survive what she has already gone through and is going through again. If you are unable to make the event, but would like to make a donation you can, go to www.komen-houston.org Make a donation - Personal Fundraising - Find A Page - Search for the Janet Ely Invitational. To find out more information about the invitational, please contact Asha C. Vaidya at vaidyas@msn.com. fort bend
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Amid school supply lists and physicals required for youth sports, parents must also address changes in required and other recommended childhood immunizations. Dr. Karen Rakers The most notable changes in immunizations affect preteens (ages 11 to 12) and include: booster shots for tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Tdap) and varicella, and a vaccine for meningitis. The boosters come after research data reports diminished protection over time and new outbreaks of once rarely seen conditions such as pertussis or whooping cough. Most Texas schools require these vaccines between the ages of 11 and 12, or before the seventh grade. With regard to the varicella booster (which prevents chicken pox), physicians are playing “catch-up.” Generally the first dose is given between one year and 15 months of age. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) now recommends a booster to be given between the ages of 4 and 6 years. Older children who did not get a second dose should receive a “catchup” dose and most schools are requiring it for students entering seventh grade unless they have had chicken pox. The meningitis vaccine protects against meningococcal meningitis which is a serious, life-threatening bacterial infection. This vaccine has been required by colleges and universities for several years and is now required for most seventh graders. Another immunization recommended by physicians and the CDC for preteen and adolescent girls (this vaccine is not currently approved for use in boys), is the HPV immunization. This is not among the required school immunizations, but a recommended one nonetheless. The benefits of this immunization, which protects young girls from the human papillomavirus - a very common sexually transmit-
ted virus, are significant. It dramatically reduces risk for cervical cancer and other serious diseases related to HPV exposure. Given in three doses, the HPV vaccine protects young girls from the most common types of HPV that can cause cervical cancer and genital warts. I recommend all of the immunizations currently required by the schools and recommended by the CDC. The reduction in many of the life-threatening diseases and conditions the immunizations were designed to combat is in itself a stellar “report card” on their effectiveness. Dr. Karen Rakers is a Board Certified family physician and member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Medical Association. Prior to joining OakBend Medical Center, she completed her residency at MacNeal Family Medicine in Berwyn, IL and practiced at the Central DuPage Physician Group in Wheaton, IL.
Advances in Breast Reduction Surgery producing better outcomes, dramatically improving quality of life Traditionally, women seeking breast reduction surgery did so because their quality of life had become so poor that the risks and less than ideal outcome were still better than continuing to live with the discomfort. These women were desperate to relieve some of the pain associated with larger breasts, which can range in severity and include chronic back pain, numbing in the arm, heat rash and bra strap grooving. And for many, the emotional impact was as distressing as the physical pain. Today, advances in breast reduction surgery are producing much better outcomes. Breast reduction procedures are more refined and produce less invasive scarring than previous techniques. It is no longer a “trade off” for patients. Women are able to relieve pain and achieve aesthetically appealing results. The breast reduction procedures we perform today very often also include
a breast lift (known as Mastopexy), so we’re not only able to help relieve physical discomfort but also achieve a more youthful appearance. We see such an improvement Dr. Ronald A. Buczek in the outlook and overall self esteem of our patients. It opens up so many new doors for them, including physical activities they had not been comfortable with prior to the reduction and a wardrobe with so many more options. Breast reduction surgery (also known as Reduction Mamaplasty) entails the removal of excess breast fat, glandular tissue and skin. It also entails the reduction of the areolas (nipples). The procedure generally requires a one night hospital stay. And while we instruct patients to rest for one to two weeks following the procedure and refrain from heavy lifting for several weeks, the relief patients feel
is immediate. That’s the most exciting thing about the procedure. Complete healing time will vary from patient to patient. The best outcomes are achieved when patients are non smokers and in overall good physical condition. We are seeing a substantial increase in the number of patients seeking breast reduction surgery. The information flow facilitated by the Internet today is not only helping to convey the strides that have been made in breast reduction surgery but also helps patients reach a greater comfort level. They are able to pour over hundreds of before and after photos, as well as read in detail what can be expected – from physicians and other patients. Ronald A. Buczek, D.O. is a fellowship trained Aesthetic Plastic, General and Hand Surgeon with hospital privileges at OakBend Medical Center. He specializes in breast reduction surgery and skin revision post bariatric surgery, as well as cosmetic and hand and upper extremity surgery.
Hello, Fulshear H Simonton 2011/2012 NEWCOMER GUIDE AND VISITOR DIRECTORY
You’re in...
THE Official BOOK and it’s FREE!! List for FREE your business* or organization in our 2011/2012 Newcomer Guide!
E-mail your listing today! E-mail: elizabeth@fortbendfocus.com with a subject line of “RR-FS Business Listing” and include the business or organization name, address, phone number and website. (Must be in Richmond, Rosenberg, Fulshear or Simonton area) *Business listings accepted in the following categories: Child Care Centers, Private Schools, Arts & Entertainment, Gardening Centers, Recreation/Golf Clubs, Churches and Restaurants.
Published by Focus Magazines www.fortbend
.com • October 2010
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M edical F ocus Breast Cancer Survivors Offering Support Methodist Sugar Land Hospital has recently partnered with two breast cancer support groups, Survivors Offering Support, and Reconstruction of a Survivor, to offer breast cancer survivors a group support system at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. The newly formed breast cancer support group, Survivors Offering Support at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, featuring Reconstruction of a Survivor’s curriculum, “Navigating Life’s Roadmap After Breast Cancer,” will begin in October, breast cancer awareness month. Women from all types of backgrounds, ages, races, and geographic regions, who have been recently diagnosed with breast cancer, are undergoing treatment or have completed treatment are welcome. The support group will help women diagnosed with breast cancer understand that breast cancer affects them both emotionally and spiritually, not just physically. It provides women a belief that they will have a better future after breast cancer—this belief is a part of the healing process. The participants of the breast cancer support group will reach toward their future with hope and realize the divine path to take and move beyond the battle with breast cancer. Examples of session topics include: It’s okay to cry; Joy is around the corner; I can’t get out of bed to work, what do I do?; 2 – 1 = I’m still a 10!; I will forgive; and How can I function when I feel overwhelmed? Founders of the group, Survivors Offering Support, Janet Ely (survivor), Sara Plant (survivor) and Ronda Goodier (this survivor sadly lost her battle with cancer in May of 2005) began the support group 10 years ago out of their homes. These three women vowed that no woman had to face breast cancer alone and thus formed Survivors Offer-
Seated left to right: Jenny Hrbacek, RN, Reconstruction of a Survivor and SOS; Melanie Frederick, SOS; Dr. Jennie M. Bennett, founder and director of Reconstruction of a Survivor; Rosemary Herron, SOS and support group facilitator; Joanna Waits, SOS and Bill Bross, Director of Spiritual Care and Values Integration at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. Standing left to right: Julia Kerner, SOS; Ann Daniel, RN Methodist Sugar Land Cancer Center and support group facilitator; Karen Platt, Chaplain at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital and support group facilitator; Janet Ely, founder of SOS; Marilyn Seiler, SOS and Marsha Yeager, SOS and support group facilitator.
ing Support. “The need for a far reaching support group was apparent, and I thought partnering with Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Spiritual Care Department would enable the group to grow even more and provide our current survivors and new members the increased opportunity to learn, meet other survivors, find support and share experiences,” said Marsha Yeager, facilitator for the group. “Merging these groups is a win-win situation, as we can now provide support for more women living in Fort Bend County.” The curriculum series, “Navigating Life’s Roadmap After Breast Cancer,” was written by Dr. Jennie M. Bennett, breast cancer survivor of 14 years and founder and director of Reconstruction of a Survivor. “The mission of Reconstruction of a Survivor is to fill the gap to serve all women diagnosed with breast cancer as they find the power within themselves, surround themselves with similar survivors, feel that nothing has been taken from them, and understand that deep down they long to explore all that is purposed for their life,” says Dr. Bennett. Reconstruction of a Survivor uses this curriculum in several locations in the Greater Houston Area. fort bend
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Bill Bross, Director of Spiritual Care and Values Integration at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital stated, “The mission of Reconstruction of a Survivor and the local Survivors Offering Support group aligns perfectly with the vision and mission of Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. We promise to cultivate a safe, spiritual, and healing environment. We look forward to reaching into the Fort Bend community to impact the lives of women at any stage of breast cancer. We believe that they can overcome the challenging diagnosis of breast cancer to have hope, possess healing, and transform their lives for a more fulfilling life and better future.” Please join Survivors Offering Support at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital on Thursdays, October 14th, November 18th and December 9th from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00, located at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital in the Main Pavilion conference room D. For more information or further dates, please contact the Spiritual Care Department at 281-274-7164. For more information on Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, please visit www.MethodistSugarLand.com or visit Reconstruction of a Survivor’s website at www. roasurvivor.org. H
New CT Scanner Reduces Radiation, Cancer Risk In the past 18 months, research study findings and major television news reports have focused on radiation exposure from computed tomography (CT) scans. A valuable diagnostic tool, CT scans provide detailed views from deep within a patient’s body. But they require much higher radiation doses than conventional X-rays, creating growing concern among researchers that CT scans may contribute to an estimated tens of thousands of future cancer cases. The new CT scanner uses less radiation to produce images, and then sharpens the images to the clarity doctors need for diagnoses. Methodist Sugar Land Hospital has taken a leading role in adopting this new technology, which became available in 2009. Since bringing the new CT scanners to Fort Bend County in November 2009, Methodist Sugar Land Hospital has been able to offer patients CT technology that dramatically reduces the amount of radiation in scans while still producing the clear images doctors need to diagnose and treat many serious health problems. Methodist Sugar Land Hospital was the first in Fort Bend County to employ this newly developed CT software—called the Adaptive Statistical Iterative Reconstruction (ASIR), by GE, that experts say can reduce the radiation dose by 30 to 40 percent. “I think it’s realistic for people to want to know more about this,” says Robert Malone, M.D., board certified radiologist at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “Five years ago, patients almost never asked about the amount of radiation. In the past year to two years, the amount of concern has increased exponentially.” “Publicity was generated about three years ago after the American College of Radiology decided to study the issue,” Malone says. And, he adds, “public interest has been further stoked by the news reports about radiation exposure from CT scans.” “In response to growing concerns about radiation risks, CT manufacturers have made improvements that lower the radiation dose, while still providing physicians the sharp images they need for diagnosis,” Malone says. The advances include a CT
Radiologists on staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital: Robert Malone, M.D.; Sudhen Desai, M.D.; Eric Longo, M.D. and Sanjay Singh, M.D.
scanner that adjusts the level of radiation used in a scan, depending in the area of the body that is being examined. For example, a lower dose is needed for the chest than for the abdomen, which has more soft tissue for the radiation to penetrate. “If you didn’t have this software, you’d need significantly more radiation to get the same image,” Malone says. “We’ve had this technology on board since November 2009 and we haven’t seen any decrease in image quality.”
Seven of the CT scanners with this capability are in operation at Methodist’s locations throughout the Houston area, and 2 of those are right here at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. To schedule Imaging Services at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, call 281-274-7170 or for a physician referral call, 281-274-7500. For more information about Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, visit MethodistSugarLand.com. H
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. www.fortbend
.com • October 2010
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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
M edical F ocus Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Partners with American Cancer Society Pink Ladies’ Golf Tournament
The American Cancer Society is proud to announce Methodist Sugar Land Hospital as its Event Sponsor for the 7th Annual Pink Ladies’ Golf Tournament on Monday, October 25, at Sugar Creek Country Club. As a result of Methodist’s generosity, the American Cancer Society is able to provide vital services for breast cancer patients, including transportation to and from treatment, as well as a breast prostheses program for Fort Bend residents in need. Methodist Sugar Land Hospital has been working diligently to get their message out to the Fort Bend community on the importance of mammography. “Partnering with the American Cancer Society through the Fort Bend Pink Ladies’ Golf Tournament is another way that we can continue that important message,” said Leena Taneja, director of physician relations and marketing at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “We understand that early detection can save lives and we are dedicated to helping women in the community understand that as well.” Methodist is also working to teach the women of the community the importance of being proactive versus reactive when it comes to their breast health. “We all know that preventative programs are the best way to ensure that any issues can be detected early,” says Janet Leatherwood, chief nursing officer at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “Being proactive is the best way that you can catch a problem that may arise and will make a bigger difference in someone’s life.” “Many cancer patients, family members and caregivers are unaware of the nonclinical programs and services
Top row from left to right: Randi Wagner; Pat Somers; Kathryn Anderson; Mary Berna; Janet Leatherwood, Chief Nursing Officer and Francis Goerlich, Director of Cancer Center, Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. Bottom row from left to right: Kaelyn Stolhand, Marketing Coordinator, Methodist Sugar Land Hospital; Terry McCutcheon, Event Co-Chair; Barbara Montgomery, Event Co-Chair and Leena Taneja, Director of Physician Relations and Marketing, Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.
available to them at their own hospital, through the American Cancer Society, and in their own community,” said Janett Pickens, community manager with the American Cancer Society. In partnership with Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, the American Cancer Society is able to provide a representative that is available at the Cancer Center every second Wednesday of the month to provide information on how to obtain free services, such as transportation to cancer-related appointments, wigs for women, as well as a makeover class. Educational materials are available at the Cancer Center’s Radiation Department for anyone needing cancer information.
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The Pink Ladies’ Golf Tournament is a 9-hole tournament geared toward novice lady golfers and women who have never played golf before. This fun-filled day also consists of a silent auction, raffle, lunch, and prizes. The event supports the American Cancer Society in its important mission to save lives and create more birthdays, by helping people stay well, helping people get well, by finding cures, and by fighting back. Last year, the tournament raised $24,000 to assist the American Cancer Society in the fight against cancer! For more information, please contact Katie Little at (713) 706-5645 or katie.little@cancer.org. H
Methodist Signs Sponsorship Agreement with New Youth Football League Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas (MOST), along with Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, are now the official health care sponsor for Fort Bend GridIron Football, a new competitive tackle league for youngsters ages 7-12. Fort Bend GridIron League and its parent organization, Fort Bend Youth Sports Association (FBYSA), were founded by former Texas A&M and Houston Oiler quarterback Bucky Richardson. The league is designed to teach proper football fundamentals in a positive, community-based environment and is affiliated with USA Football, the official youth football organization for the NFL and the NFL Players Association. “Methodist Orthopedic Specialists of Texas has a long history of being deeply involved in supporting youth sports and keeping young athletes healthy, fit and in the game,” said Chris Siebenaler, CEO of Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “Our partnership with Fort Bend GridIron Football aligns our physicians and sports medicine specialists with a league that we know will thrive in our community, making it possible for even more athletes to enjoy a positive sports experience.” As part of the premium sponsorship agreement, physicians, athletic trainers and physical therapists from Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas will comprise of a FBYSA medical advisory team, providing in-depth expertise and assistance to players and their families. During the football season, MOST will also staff two weekly walk-in sports medicine clinics for FBYSA athletes, including its Saturday morning clinic at the MOST facility that is open from August through November. In addition, FBYSA athletes, parents, administrators and coaches will receive VIP services at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s emergency, imaging and surgical departments via the MSLH Sports VIP Platinum Card. And players can receive same-day appoints at Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas and Methodist Family Medicine Group by scheduling through an assigned outreach coordinator. “As a former college and professional football player, I believe strongly
in the valuable role that sports medicine plays in keeping athletes healthy on and off the field,” said Richardson. “To me, the most important component of our partnership with Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas is the access that our players will have to the expertise, technology and health care services of the Methodist organization.” For an appointment with a MOST physician, please call 281-494-MOST (6678) or for more information about Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, visit MethodistSugarLand.com. For more information about Fort Bend GridIron Football, visit FortBendGridIronFootball.com. H
Top Row L-R: Lowell Stanton, CFO at MSLH; Bucky Richardson, founder for the league; Gary Remy, board member and coach; Alex O’Saw, coach and Sean Croft, Director of Rehab Services at MSLH. Middle Row L-R: Angela Byrd, athletic trainer at MOST, Vincent C. Phan, M.D.; Kenneth M. Renney, M.D.; Christopher K. Smith, M.D.; Carl A. Hicks, M.D. and Jerry Meins, athletic trainer at MOST. Bottom Row L-R: John Paul Richardson, Bryson Stewart, Grant Remy and Talyn O’Saw.
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)
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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.
Ten Girl Scouts from Sugar Land have received the Girl Scout Silver Award. The girls from Troop 721 were honored at a ceremony at The Club at New Territory. The Girl Scout Silver Award, a national recognition, symbolizes a Cadette Girl Scout’s accomplishments in Girl Scouting and community activities as she matures and works to better her life and the lives of others. The Silver Award projects for Troop 721 were: (Front Row) Sarah Munson, Shama Tajani, Poonam Vaidya, Prerana Jasti, and Megan Whitworth; (Back Row) Ellyn Sinicropi, Krisha Desai, Bina Patel, Samantha Lane, and Courtney Kohanski.
Boy Scout Troop 557 had their first fundraiser of the season at the Brookshire Bros. in Old Katy. The scouts earned over $400 to spend on equipment for the troop.
St. Laurence Catholic School (SLCS) kicked off the new school year with their 2nd Annual Back to School Social. Students and their families were invited to attend along with our faculty and staff to “come and catch the Spirit” before school began. Pictured are SLCS students with the mascot, Leo the Lion, at the event.
Congratulations to Alicia Finnigan of the First Colony Swim Team for breaking the Texas State Record in the 11-12 Girls 200 Fly with a time of 2:21.29. This time also broke the GULF and FCST Team Record as well as qualified her for the NCSA Junior National Meet.
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An Eagle Court of Honor was held at First Colony Conference Center for Warren Chan, Daniel Kau, Justin Lam, and Oliver Mao for their journey to the rank of Eagle Scout.
Dru Kennedy Hawkins is a 4th Grade student at St. Laurence Catholic School and runs track for Visions Track Club. Dru competed in the 2010 American Amateur Union (AAU) National Track and Field meet in Norfolk, Virginia and is now recognized as a Track and Field All American-the 3rd fastest 1500m, 9 year old in the nation.
The orthodontic office of Dr. Dennis Halford proudly announces that “Halford’s Helpers,” 2010 was a great success. With this unique “Summer Camp”, Dr. Halford and his staff extend an invitation to their young patients to come in and spend part of the day in their orthodontic office. The 25th Annual Halford’s Helpers event was celebrated with food and fun at Sugar Land’s AMC Theatre.
Congratulations to the FCST Senior swimmers who competed at the 2010 Conoco Phillips National Championships and the 2010 Speedo Junior National Championships. Congrats to Simone Manuel, Kyle Yu, Madeline Locus, Skylar Smith and Eegan Groome (not pictured).
This year, East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry helped hundreds of families in our community through the Supply our Students (aka S.O.S.) program. Brand new packets of school supplies were given out to 450 Pre-K through 12th grade students attending Fort Bend County schools. East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry, Inc. would like to thank Christ United Methodist Church, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital and Houston Apartment Association for supporting the children of Fort Bend County through another successful year for the S.O.S. program. www.fortbend
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Dumar’s Mediterranean Grill Not Only Offers Good Food but Does Jewelry Repairs On Site
The authentic and exotic foods of Middle East have returned to Sugar Land. Forget about driving into Houston to get your Hummus, Shawermas and Imported groceries. Save your gas, because you can now get all of that and a lot more right here in town. Just Head over to Dumar’s Mediterranean Grill and Grocery, a great new place serving middle eastern favorites with an outdoor patio and some of the friendliest service in town. Located on Highway 6 and Austin Parkway, in the same plaza with Sears Hardware, Middle Eastern food lovers will not be disappointed at
Dumar’s. “The secret to good middle eastern food is that it’s got to be very fresh and prepared according to tradition.” Dumar’s gets it done in both aspects. Everything is made fresh daily, from the “Kebeh Balls” (Rolled cracked wheat stuffed with meat and nuts) to the Hummus, Taboulih and Babaghanouj. The owner, Mr. Bashar F. Dumar and his wife, Ilham, are natives of the Middle East and do all of the cooking themselves. Even the Baklava desert is made by hand. They make sure everyone is satisfied including those who may require Hookah products. 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. A friendly atmosphere and a beautiful outdoor patio makes Dumar’s the place to try when
you want a taste of the Middle-East or just need to grab some imported delicacies. By the way, Mr. Dumar is also a former jeweler and does jewelry repairs on site, So bring your scrap gold or watches that need batteries. 4515 Hwy 6, Sugar Land, 281-313-1893.H
Ilham and Bashar F. Dumar Dumar’s Mediterranean Grill owners
WJ Interests, LLC, Again Named Top Advisor by Financial Advisor, Wealth Manager Magazines
WJ Interests, LLC, has again been ranked among the top financial planning firms in the United States by both Financial Advisor and Wealth Management magazines. Located in Sugar Land, this is the sixth straight year WJ Interests has been included on the Wealth Manager list and the third straight year to be listed by Financial Advisor magazine. Both lists can be viewed at www.wjinterests.com. ‘‘We are very pleased to be ranked again,’’ said Jared Jameson, chief investment officer and vice president of the firm. ‘‘We appreciate the confidence our clients have shown in this difficult economic environment.’’ Wealth managers had to meet several criteria to be included in the rankings: a firm must be an SEC registered investment advisor with its own IARD number; have minimum assets under advisement of at least $50 million;
have individuals or high-net-worth individuals as more than half of its client base; and offer financial planning services in addition to asset management. “The firms that participate in the
Bill Jameson and Jared Jameson
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annual Top Wealth Managers survey are the lion’s share of the largest, most established registered investment advisors (RIAs), in America,” according to WealthManagerWeb.com’s Editorin-Chief Kathleen McBride. “These are the firms our survey partner, Fusion Advisor Network President Philip Palaveev, describes as the ones every RIA wants to be when they grow up.” WJ Interests is a fee-only financial planning and investment management firm dedicated to helping individuals, families and businesses achieve their personal financial goals. ‘‘We believe our clients’ trust is the most valuable asset we manage,’’ Jared said. ‘‘Our clients trust us with their financial future and we take that responsibility very seriously.’’ For more information, visit WJ Interests’ website at www.wjinterests.com or call 281-634-9400. H
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 foe. 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)
Orthodontics 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)
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)
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)
Please call the experts from our list of Focus Favorites.
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?
Call 281-690-4242.
Attention All Businesses This is now your chance to target your market. List your business in
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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)
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To get you started, go to www.fortbendfocus.com and click on “Focus Favorites.”
Reach local buyers with Search Engine Marketing available from your Local Newspaper!!! plus 26 other search engines If you’re thinking about getting more business from local online searches, call the Fort Bend Star. We are the local marketing experts - online as well as in print. Since LOCAL searches on the top national search engines out number searches in yellow page directories, you need your business to get your share of these LOCAL business category searches.
281-690-4221
Email: Michael@FortBendStar.com fort bend
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ATULATION R G N S! O Josh Nava C
Josh Nava, a senior at Foster High School in the FBISD, receives a $1,000 check from Texas Direct Auto Director of Business Development Jessica DeMarr. Nava was selected as part of Texas Direct Auto’s commitment to educational excellence through the “Scholarship Star” program. Application details are listed below.
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281-533-0099 8502 FM 359, Fulshear, TX 77441
Ask about our Holiday Catering and Private Event Room
R
AY’S GOURMET COUNTRY is 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, wild game and seafood. All seafood is purchased direct and filleted in-house to ensure the freshest quality.
T
For more information including hours of operation, current menu selections and upcoming events, visit our website at
www.raysgrill.com
Focus on Flavor
he grill hosts a calendar full of events including complimentary wine tastings, chef table dinners, monthly cooking classes, wine dinners and Sunday brunches. The fully stocked bar features several plasma TV’s for viewing entertainment and sporting events, including “Monday Night Football” special bar hours. The restaurant and bar are available for private parties and a catering menu is available for on and off-site events.
Dining Guide
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.
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.
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
CUPCAKE CAFE • New Owner / New Pastry Chef. Come try our huge cupcakes! We have new as well as our familiar flavors. We serve gourmet sandwiches, soups and salads. We offer catering and 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. You can contact us by phone: 281-242-2744. Our hours are: 9:30 am - 7:00 pm Monday - Saturday. Closed Sunday.
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 fort bend
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Focus on Flavor
Dining Guide
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
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.
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.
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Great Sushi, Great Hot Plates & Vegetarian Choices, Great Value, Fantastic Happy Hour Specials
Buy 2 Regular Price Dinners &
50% OFF 2nd Lunch Entrée
Get One Free Roll ($6.95 Value)
Buy one lunch entrée get 2nd lunch entrée of equal or lesser value at 50% off
Coupon is useful for the following items: U Pick It Entrées, Udons and Udons of Noodles, Entrées, Sashimi Entrées and Sushi Combination Plate
One coupon per customer or party. Coupon may be used at Blue Fish House II – Sugar Land. May not be combined with other coupons, offers or happy hour. Please present this order to your server before ordering. Expired Date: 11/30/2010
One coupon per customer or party. Coupon may be used at Blue Fish House II – Sugar Land. May not be combined with other coupons, offers or happy hour. Please present this order to your server before ordering. Expired Date: 11/30/2010
281.295.0707
Blue Fish House II – Sugar Land • 2735 Town Center Blvd. North, Suite C • Sugar Land, Texas 77479 Join our e-mail club online at www.bluefishhouse.com • Chance to win $25 Gift Card every week…
Focus on Flavor 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.
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
Dining Guide KONA GRILL • Kona Grill puts an exciting twist on American cuisine. We prepare over 40 sauces made from scratch everyday, bringing new excitement to an incredible variety of delicious appetizers and entrees. Try our signature Macadamia Nut Chicken, Sweet-Chili Glazed Salmon or our Kona`s Big Island Meatloaf. We also serve award-winning sushi, hand-crafted daily by talented sushi chefs at our elegant sushi bar. Relax and watch our colorful exotic fish in our mesmerizing 2,000 gallon seawater aquarium. Great selection! Great atmosphere! So whether it`s for lunch, dinner or happy hour, escape to Kona Grill! Happy Hour 3-7pm M-F, Reverse Happy Hour 9-11pm M-Sat, 16535 Southwest Frwy (First Colony), 281-242-7000 www.konagrill.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 11am2:30pm, 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.
List your restaurant here! Call 281-690-4242.
Buy one entrée and get
ONE SANDWICH FREE Not valid with other offers
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Focus on Flavor
Dining Guide
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 & 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.
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.
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.
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.
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 4-6pm, $5 select wines. Enjoy live music every Friday night. Napa Grille Urban Wine Bar is also available for private parties. Mon-Fri 11am11pm Sat 5pm-11pm. 14019 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land, TX. Call 281-2772599. For full menu and daily specials visit www.napagrille.net.
RED OAK GRILL • What happens when All-American cooking collides with the flavors of the Mediterranean? Answer: Red Oak Grill. A family owned and operated restaurant, this eatery offers diners both down-home comfort foods and a taste of the exotic. What’s more, it does so at prices you’ll find very appetizing. Fresh Salads, Wraps, 1/2-lb. Burgers, Chicken Sandwiches, Chicken Fried Steak... they’re all part of the line up. But so are Gyros, Chicken Shawerma, Shish Kabobs, Beef or Chicken Kabobs and Falafel Platters. To start, sharing appetizers of Hummus, Tabouleh, Stuffed Grape Leaves and Spinach Pie is a must. Save some room, though, because the freshbaked Baklava, Eclairs, Cakes and Cookies are unbelievable! Mon-Sat 10 am- 9 pm, Located at 203 Century Square Blvd, Sugar Land, 281-491-2890, www.redoak-grill.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.
THE FISH PLACE • Great little seafood place located at 3303 Hwy 6 at Williams Trace. Open MonSat 11am-9:30pm and Sun 11am-8pm. You will find all your Cajun seafood favorites including boudin balls, etouffee, crawfish tails, gumbo and poboys. Grab the popular grilled or fried fish tacos to go, or stay for the All You Can Eat catfish and tenders. Call 281-491-0003.
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RAY’S GOURMET COUNTRY •
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By Alisa Murray www.AlisaMurray.com Nationally recognized portrait artist and award-winning columnist.
Living the Sweet Life:
Victoria Ann and James
Gone Fishing!
S
ummer’s pretty much over, and many of us went about the lazy days of the passing season doing activities with the children...summer nights filled with grilling out by the pool…..perhaps attending a swim meet or two... visiting grandparents....camp. Many of my fondest memories of my own childhood are from summertime. I had hoped that this summer, we would have a family trip that stood out from all the rest: the kind of vacation that we would be talking about when we were on a vacation many years from now with grandchildren. I had heard a consistent request from my son that he wanted to go boating and fishing. The request seemed strange since we had only taken him on a boat once, and he had never been fishing. Finally, I decided that we would take the family to Matagorda Bay for a week of vacation. I booked a house right on the water, and as the weeks went by and the day finally came to leave, my son became more and more excited about.... of all things.... fishing. We arrived at the house that overlooked the ocean and was full of promises of building lasting memories of a summer in 2010. We asked the grandparents and the nanny to come along. The house was full of family and with board games and books not yet read and canvases waiting to be painted, we anticipated an eventful vacation week. The first day, it rained. The mosquitoes were so bad that you literally could find yourself with at least ten new bites each time you ventured down to the beach. Not expected since that does not happen in Myrtle Beach. I got in the car and quickly got my bearings, as my Daddy would say. Upon further inspection, I discovered there were four restaurants all of which had different times and days they were open and none of which was in a hurry to do much. There was one place to buy fresh fish, one place to buy milk, eggs and a fishing license, and one place to buy bait. It took me less that an hour to cover the entire town. In fact, the first day I met a lady who told me the only thing to do there was to drink and “find a honey” to which I rolled my eyes. I almost packed up and headed back home... seriously. On day two, it rained, and after watching people fish off of the pier, I discovered three things about fishing. 1. There are rules for every fish as to length, and you need to know what the fish are and the rules for keeping them. 2. Some fish have
the ability to hurt you. 3. Fishing in Matagorda means baiting with live shrimp. I called a man named Captain Michael and explained to him that I needed to create a fishing experience for James Edward. He asked me to meet him with my crew at 6:30. I hesitated…6:30? I did not want to go fishing at night, and he laughed and said, “No, first thing in the morning.” I asked him what was the latest we could arrive, knowing full well to get my crew out the door and on a boat at 6:30 am would require an act of God. I told him to expect us around 7:30. I thought okay...it’s raining...we are watching movies from the homeowners DVD collection, and we are all covered in mosquito bites. BUT There WILL BE FISHING! Just hang on until Thursday! Thursday morning finally arrived and with it, a very excited little boy. He had gotten up earlier than everyone else and planned our picnic for the boat - his favorites of course - boiled eggs and ham sandwiches with purple grapes. We got out to the dock, and there was Captain Mike with a boat and eight poles sitting in holsters ready to go. The morning passed by rather quickly. We fished, and if they were too little or there were none at all, which was pretty much the pattern, Captain Mike would gather up the poles, throw into the water the half-dead shrimp and move us around for a second, third,... well you get the idea. Each time we would catch a fish, Captain Mike would take it off the hook, look at it and then without saying a word, toss it back into the water. The children began to think this was the idea of fishing all together. About mid-morning, guess who reeled in a 22” Drum? The little boy who had been promised a fishing trip! Captain Mike took James Edward’s fish off the hook, opened the cooler and tossed him in. The rest of us kept casting and reeling and getting the same old small, throw back fish. Brian made the comment that the fish would probably be enough for dinner. James Edward had been lifting the top of the cooler and peering in to look at who he had now named “Jeffrey”. He stated calmly that his mouth had stopped moving a lot. He paced about the boat and went back to check on Jeffrey with a look of despair on his face. We began to discuss fort bend
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what types of dressing we might place upon poor Jeffrey and the side dishes we would prepare to go with him. James Edward sat beside the cooler and opened the door. Everyone was quietly concentrating on catching more fish when James Edward let out a wild cry, “We are not eating him. He is going home with us to live in our fish tank!” Everyone stopped. Everyone waited for guess who to figure out what to do and to fix it! I sat down beside a now very upset little boy and asked him, “Why do we need to take Jeffrey home? Jeffrey lives in the ocean and not with goldfish in houses.” Jamesy looked at me with tears running down his face and said, “We can’t eat him! That would kill him! I didn’t want to kill him!” Suddenly, I remembered the rule. We only kill things that get into our house that don’t live with us; we do not go out into the world and kill things in their environment. That meant a spider in your bed was fair game but a spider crawling on a rock outside was to be observed and respected. James Edward was practicing the life law I had established. Brian rolled his eyes, and he knew what I was about to do. I said to Captain Mike, “Well, it looks like Mr. Jeffrey has had enough fun with our family today, and he needs to go back home and check on his children.” I winked at him and without saying a word, he opened the cooler, massaged the fish until he woke up and threw him back into the bay. James Edward immediately cheered up, and we all realized that the point of the trip was to go fishing. Period. I said, almost apologetic to Captain Mike, “I can’t believe the only fish we caught that we could keep we had to throw back.” He smiled and said, “You’re surprised at what good sportsmanship that little man of yours has? All the best throw them back!” I had hoped the last vacation of summer would be memorable, even one that might stand out in all of our memories for years to come. Who knew it would be about James Edward’s first fishing trip and that the luckiest fish in Matagorda Bay would have a name? Take Care of You!
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