Fort Bend Lifestyles and Homes Dec 2015 by Lifestyles & Homes Magazines/Fort Bend Publishing

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DECEMBER 2015

CASA CHRISTMAS HOME TOUR!

PETERSON HOMEBUILDERS Presents the 2015

ASID Holiday Showhouse in The Woodlands!

This Holiday Season the Look is Loggins J. PAMELA PHOTOGRAPHY, INC.

Real People, Real Homes, Real Style…Real Fort Bend Living www.fortbendlifestylesandhomes.com

10707 Corporate Dr #170 Stafford, TX 77477-4092

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THORNWOOD GALLERY

Thornwood Gallery has earned a reputation of providing high quality artwork by international, national and local artists for homes and businesses. Our extensive inventory represents a wide variety of styles from abstract to impressionism and realism.

2643 Colquitt St. • Houston 77098

www.thornwoodgallery.com

713.528.4278

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Actual SmileTexas Patients

A New Smile In Time For The Holiday Season!

Two Visit Smile Makeover.

Smile Texas™ was created over a decade ago to offer

a one-stop solution for those in search of a healthy, beautiful smile. We deliver state-of-the-art cosmetic and implant GHQWLVWU\ LQ D VLQJOH RIÀFH 7KLV DOORZV XV WR FRUUHFW DQ\ smile imperfection from staining, crooked teeth, gaps and spaces, or chipped teeth. For the most severe conditions, when natural teeth cannot be saved, Dr. Kline offers his DPD]LQJ 7HHWK E\ 7RQLJKW VROXWLRQ 7KLV SURFHGXUH allows Dr. Kline to place dental implants and an entire set RI QHZ À[HG LQ SODFH WHHWK in just one procedure. Recovery time is minimal and the results look and feel completely natural. Over the years, many of our guests have told us that Dr. Bret Davis they had simply stopped smiling due to the condition Dr. Rick L. Kline of their teeth. We helped Founder of SmileTexas them conquer their fear and achieve a new smile that allows them to live life to the fullest.

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For the

y a s t look tha

!” E M O H s, “I’m

From our family to yours, Merry Christmas. The Burt Family

1247 FM 359 • Richmond, TX 77406

281-341-7788

www.plantationfurniture.com

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Model Homes Open Daily

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Only Waterfront Lots remaining to design and build your Dream Home!

• Award Winning Luxury Custom Home Builders • Easy Access to Hwy 59 & 99 • Excellent Schools

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CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION alexandra hampson

Each office is independently owned and operated.

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COUNT ON US WHEN MINUTES COUNT In a cardiac emergency, a fast, comprehensive response can be the difference between life and death. That’s why our Heart & Vascular Center offers the most advanced cardiac care program in the area. In fact, we’re the only hospital in the Fort Bend area to provide 24-hour-a-day, seven-day-a-week interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery services. Also, because we consistently exceed national standards in the most critical components of cardiac care, we’re a nationally accredited chest pain center. In a cardiac emergency, there’s only one place you need to be — Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. That’s the difference between practicing medicine and leading it.

CALL 9-1-1 IMMEDIATELY if you experience any of the following: t $IFTU QBJO PS QSFTTVSF (may radiate down arm) t 4IPSUOFTT PG CSFBUI t /BVTFB WPNJUJOH BOE PS TFWFSF JOEJHFTUJPO t #SFBLJOH PVU JO B DPME TXFBU For more information or GPS B QIZTJDJBO SFGFSSBM WJTJU IPVTUPONFUIPEJTU PSH TVHBSMBOE PS DBMM

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ur o Er Y t M e fo G O y H ead R

se ts u G y a d i ol H

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VonWhere Boeckmann , D.D.S. New Smiles are Always Welcome Cosmetic | Implant | General Dentistry | Invisalign BEFORE

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2016 kia optima

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Wardrobe The Boutique A Treasure Trove of - Evening Gowns - Cocktail Dresses - Daily Wear -

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Women Specializing in the Fertility Care of Women ANOUNCING

GRAND OPE THE NING OF OUR NEW SUGAR LAND LOCATION

Established 1987 NO PART OF THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE PUBLISHER

DIRECT-MAILED MONTHLY TO OVER 39,000 PREMIER HOMES AND BUSINESSES IN FORT BEND COUNTY Including Sugar Land, Missouri City, Richmond, Stafford Businesses and Trade Professionals (GHBA, ASID members)

facebook.com/Lifestyles.Admin fortbendlifestylesandhomes.com founder and publisher Bill and Linda Anderson

Editor Linda Vaughan Anderson editor@lifestyles-magazines.com

Office Manager Linda Peterson

Contributing Editors

Infertility Testing • Insemination Family Balancing • In Vitro Fertilization Pre-Implantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD)

Cheryl Alexander • Mara Soloway Kelly Foss • Cathy Gordon • Judy Latta Dr. Lori • Denman Moody Melanie Saxton • Cindy Ziervogel

Social Editor Cari Middaugh

Photographers J. Pamela Photography, Inc.

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For more information call

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REACH OUR FULL CIRCULATION: Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes Houston Lifestyles & Homes Katy/Fulshear Lifestyles & Homes The Woodlands Lifestyles & Homes Cy-Fair Lifestyles & Homes SUBSCRIPTIONS: $18 per year FORT BEND PUBLISHING GROUP

Sonja Kristiansen, M.D. Fertility Specialist

SUGAR LAND 2205 Williams Trace Blvd., Ste. 106 HOUSTON 9055 Katy Fwy., Suite 450 16 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

10707 Corporate Drive, Suite 170 • Stafford, TX 77477 Tel: 281.240.2445 ext. 128 E: editor@lifestyles-magazines.com

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Contents

DECEMBER 2015

{74} Time for the CASA Christmas Home Tour! Holiday décor celebrates the reason for the season Interview by: Cheryl Alexander Photography by: J Pamela Photography

{22}

HAPPENINGS Mark your calendar for upcoming concerts, activities, and charitable events.

{66}

Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation Ball A night of entertainment on Jan. 23.

18 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

{42} SCENE IN THE BEND! Parties, galas and celebrations. See what the Fort Bend County movers and shakers are doing!

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Contents

DECEMBER 2015

The Good Life

In Store Now

{104 TRAVEL} The Jewel of the Golden Isles. {108 WINE} Great Values. {110 DINING GUIDE} A listing of Fort Bend area restaurants. {114 MEMORABLE WEDDINGS}

{46 DISCOVERIES} New and unique finds for your home and lifestyles. {48 BOOKS} New releases on decorating, cooking, health and more. {50 FASHION} What to wear now and a look at new styles for the upcoming season. {54 NEW AUTOS} Reviews of the Nissan Maxima and Lexus NX.

Newlyweds share their special day.

Community News

Home Inspirations Inside &Out {82} INTERIOR DETAILS Kitchen Design Winners Set High Standards

More Features

Flair and Function shine in NKBA annual competition

{90} HOME IMPROVEMENT Spruce Up Your Exterior Doors Care for this important focal point before your holiday guests arrive.

{92}

{84}

HOME IMPROVEMENT

INTERIOR DETAIL

RESOURCES

Health & Well-Being

{128} Inspiring Student: Stacy Tao Uses Artistic Talent to Give to Others Generosity and caring are major aspects of her identity.

{94} Love Your Neck Skin rejuvenation for the neck and chest.

{98} Diet and Physical Activity What is the cancer connection?

{56}

{100} Medical Directory {102} Family Health Resources

Highway 6: The Road More Traveled Reflects the changing face of Fort Bend County.

{68}

Holiday Gift Guide!

{60} Sergeant David Blalock Surprises Daughters Upon Return from Deployment

local business climate and its leaders.

{126 AROUND THE BEND} Community f

groups and people making local news. {130 CAMPUS} Achievements and activities of area schools and students.

Middle schoolers get a sweet surprise

{62} Mary Joyce Enters City Council Race Long-time Sugar Land resident.

{64} Madden Elementary School Dedication Ceremony Namesakes on hand for memorable event.

{120 BUSINESS BRIEFS} Keep up with the

{24} This Holiday Season the Look is Loggins

20 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

{28} Peterson Homebuilders Presents the 2015 ASID Holiday Showhouse in The Woodlands

Columns {72} ARTS & ANTIQUES BY DR. LORI

10:00 am – 3:00 pm SCollecting Advent 10:00 amCalendars. – 5:00 pm S 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm

{136} Historical Let’s Go Shopping!

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SUGAR LAND TOWN SQUARE HOLIDAY EVENTS

(L-R): Michelle Beeson, BRC member; Dana Clement, FBJSL president; Audra O’Neal, BRC member; Kavita Self, BRC member; Markisha Venzant-Sampson, BRC member; Tanya Pal, BRC chair; Becky Zachary, BRC member; Laura Taylor, FBJSL president-elect; and Mary Lovely, BRC member.

FBJSL Now Accepting Event Beneficiary and Scholarship Applications The Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) is currently accepting applications from charitable organizations interested in benefiting from an FBJSL event to be held in the 2016 – 2017 League year. Event Beneficiary applications must be received by the FBJSL Beneficiary Review Committee on or before Jan. 8, 2016. The Event Beneficiary application and accompanying instructions can be found on FBJSL’s website at fbjsl.com/requesting-oursupport. The FBJSL Beneficiary Review Committee (BRC) reviews event beneficiary applicants based on the needs of those agencies and the goals of the organization. FBJSL selects beneficiaries that will thrive due to its support, and match the League’s vision for meeting the needs of the Fort Bend County area. To be eligible for consideration, applicants must have 501(c)(3) status, provide services within Fort Bend County and encompass one or more of the League’s position statements. Additionally, the FBJSL is offering two scholarship programs to assist women in Fort Bend County who desire to further their education. The deadline to submit scholarship applications is Feb. 1, 2016. For the FBJSL Volunteer Scholarship, the applicant must be an outstanding Fort Bend female high school senior who has completed at least 100 hours of high school community service, has a minimum GPA of 2.5 and desires to pursue higher education in the 2016-2017 school year. For the FBJSL New Beginnings Scholarship, the applicant must be a Fort Bend woman who has a specific degree or career advancement goal in mind and who has had a significant break in her education following high school graduation, completion of her GED, or last full-time semester at an accredited college, vocational school or university. Four Volunteer Scholarships will be awarded at a value of $1,000 each and one New Beginnings Scholarship will be awarded at a value of $2,000. To learn more and obtain a copy of the application, visit fbjsl.com/scholarships. All event beneficiary and scholarship applications and required supporting documents must be sent via email to brccom@fbjsl.com.

22 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

On Thursday, Dec. 5 from 5-8 p.m., Santa Claus comes to town for Sugar Land's Christmas Tree Lighting. Santa and Mrs. Claus will share some holiday cheer and pose with guests for a free souvenir picture. Guests can also enter a 15-foot inflatable snow globe for a great photo opportunity. There will be holiday arts and crafts, stilt walkers, juggling elves and performances on Santa's Helpers Stage. Then attendees will gather around the spectacular 40-foot Christmas tree to welcome the holiday season. Ring in 2016 on Thursday, Dec. 31 with the New Year's Eve on the Square celebration. The countdown to midnight will feature the event's signature 3D video projection show coupled with jaw-dropping fireworks. This celebration is divided into two segments to ensure attendees of all ages are able to celebrate the New Year. The children's celebration begins at 7 p.m. with music, entertainment, street performers and a fireworks show ending the night at 9 p.m. The party resumes at 10 p.m. with the adult New Year's Eve celebration. Alcohol will be available for purchase until 1 a.m. All City of Sugar Land events are free and open to the public. Parking is available in the Texas and Lone Star garages. A free shuttle service will be available for Halloween Town, Christmas Tree Lighting and New Year's Eve on the Square from Mercer Stadium, 16403 Lexington Blvd., during the event hours. Everyone is encouraged to take advantage of the shuttle service, as parking in the garages is limited. For more information about these events or to become an event sponsor, contact the Sugar Land Parks and Recreation Department at 281275-2885. For a complete listing of the City of Sugar Land's events, visit sugarlandtx.gov/SpecialEvents.

THE ARC COMMUNITY CALENDAR The Arc of Fort Bend’s webpage, aka SNEAK Community Calendar, was developed to advertise events and activities for persons with disabilities. Anyone can browse through the community calendar. Agencies, organizations, therapy groups, etc. that serve persons with any type of disability or organizes an event or activity for persons with special needs is invited to register the company and add events to the calendar. SNEAK has the ability to handle reoccurring events, including monthly support groups or trainings. No fundraising events accepted. The website is arcoffortbend.org.

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Will You Sleep Better on the $6,000

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ATLANTA•DALLAS•HOUSTON•PHOENIX•PHILADELPHIA•VIRGINIA•CHICAGO www.thedump.com | FRIDAY 10-9 SATURDAY 10-9 SUNDAY 11-7

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HBU Schola Cantorum with Director Dr. John Yarrington.

Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra Holiday Concerts, Dec. 6 “Deck the Halls” is a seasonal tradition for Fort Bend County families. HBU’s acclaimed choir, Schola Cantorum, is back by popular demand to perform in accompaniment to the Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra in two concerts on Sunday, Dec. 6 in the Stafford Centre at 2 p.m. and again at 7 p.m. The orchestra will perform traditional favorites, the American “Sleigh Ride,” and the Russian “Troika” by Prokofiev. The Russian theme continues with McKechnie’s “Deck the Halls with Trepac” (also known as “The Russian Dance” from The Nutcracker). New this year, “A ‘Texified’ Night Before Christmas” brings a new twist to the beloved poem. “White Christmas” and the “Hanukkah Festival Overture” complete the orchestra’s solo performance. Schola Cantorum gives voice to FBSO’s music for the medley “Christmas on Broadway” including “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas,” “Toyland,” “My Favorite Things,” “We Need a Little Christmas,” and “God Bless Us Everyone”, continuing with “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,”

26 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

and “Sing We Now of Christmas.” The choir performs a cappella for “Ding, Dong Merrily on High” and “Gloria (Movement 1)”. The 2 p.m. performance features a special guest — Santa Claus! The winner of the Houston Music Teachers’ Association Concerto Competition, accompanied by FBSO, treats guests at the 7 p.m. performance to a piano concerto. Prior to each performance and at intermission, guests can shop at the FBSO Holiday Market, featuring handcrafted gift items made by orchestra members. Last year’s most popular selections included scarves, ornaments, jewelry, paper goods, small paintings, and more. All proceeds from the sale benefit FBSO. There is no charge to visit the Market. Tickets begin at $15 for adults; children 12 and under are $5 and teens $10 each. There are discounts for college students, seniors 55-plus, military personnel, and groups of 10 or more. Get tickets at fbso.org or by calling 281-276-9642.

Austin HigH scHool ProgrAd HolidAy HAyrides The AHS ProGrad Holiday Hayride is a fun family activity for the holidays. Dates scheduled are Dec. 4, 5, 11, 12,18 and 19 (Friday and Saturday nights) from 7-9 pm. This oldfashioned attraction includes a delightful ride on a sound-equipped hay trailer through Pecan Grove (meeting place Randall’s in Pecan Grove), a neighborhood that will be transformed into a winter wonderland filled with huge light displays, decorated trees and homes, bridges and brooks. The hayride will last about 40 minutes and is choreographed to all the favorite songs of the season. After the hay ride, warm up with a cup of cocoa or even have your picture taken with Santa.The hay ride is $5 per ticket and children under 2 years old are admitted free; $125 to reserve an entire trailer for a private party. Reservations are recommended for parties of six or more. Proceeds benefit AHS Project Graduation 2016 evening activities. For more information, contact Marty Brinkman at mbrinkman1@msn.com or call 713-254-7889 (text messages preferred).

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TerriKurkjian Your Specialist FORT BEND HOME

Homes For The Holidays FORT BEND THEATRE PRESENTS PRINCESS CHRISTMAS, DEC. 5-22 Fort Bend Theatre will present Princess Christmas, Dec. 5-22, Saturdays and Sundays at 3 p.m. at the theatre, located at 2815 N. Main St. in Stafford. Everyone’s favorite princesses — Cinderella, Belle, Jasmine, Sleeping Beauty, Rapunzel, The Little Mermaid and Snow White — are all back by popular demand to show everyone the true meaning of the holiday season. All the mean school girls think they have what it takes to be a princess, until the Real Princesses show the girls what it really takes in this enchanting holiday tale. Everyone in the audience who attends wearing their princess/prince costume will receive a special holiday treat! Get tickets for the show online at FortBendTheatre.com. For more information or for group rates, call 281-208-3333. The Theatre’s Musical Theatre Camps will be offered at the Theatre during school break. THis year’s camp is “Tribute to Frozen”. Classes are for ages 5-10 and are held Monday through Friday, Dec. 28-Jan. 1 from 1-5 p.m. There will be a free showcase at the end of camp for friends and family. Camp fee is $200. Register online at the website above.

Sienna Plantation - $1,299,900

Riverstone - $629,900

Sweetwater - $849,900

COMPLIMENTARY MEALS FOR SENIOR CITIZENS Catholic Charities Mamie George Community Center offers daily complimentary hot meals to senior citizens at Patty’s Café, open Monday through Friday 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Dining is available both inside and outside, with free wireless Internet access. Enrollment in the meal program is required at the Mamie George Community Center, 1111 Collins Road in Richmond. For more information, call 281-202-6200.

Riverstone - $549,000

Office: 281.980.6849 Mobile: 713.582.7911 www.terrikhomes.com Each office independently owned and operated. re/MAx Fine Properties 281-265-5533

Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015 | 27

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Visit the ASID Holiday Showhouse featuring an iconic 12,000 sq ft estate home on Lake Woodlands. This Home has been designed and furnished by some of the most talented designers from the Texas Gulf Coast Chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers and renovated by Peterson Homebuilders. The halls will be decked for the holidays, so you won't want to miss it!

West Isle

Lake Woodlands

E Panther Creek

Lake Woodlands Drive Windsail Pl

N I-45

54 N Windsail Place The Woodlands, TX 77381

Woodlands Parkway

December 5 -6 • 10-13 • 17-20 Thursdays & Fridays: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm Saturdays: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Sundays: 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Pre-Sale Tickets through Dec.4 are $12.00; $15.00 at the door. To purchase your tickets visit

http://asidholidayshowhouse.eventbrite.com For more information, asidtgcc.org/holidayshowhouse or visit

petersonhomebuilders.com

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Is a showcase renovation on your holiday WISH LIST? It takes more than wishing to get a great home renovation. You need a guarantee that the design, quality and craftsmanship you envision will come true.

Let Peterson Homebuilders oversee your renovation or build your new custom home. Who better to trust than a company that understands homes from foundation to roof — an award winning custom home builder that collaborates with the best architects, designers, craftsmen and developers in the industry. Visit our website and view the work we have been doing in Houston’s best neighborhoods for 27 years.

Peterson Homebuilders, Inc. petersonhomebuilders.com

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Philip Chong (left) and Derek Cyprian.

Fort Bend Boys Choir Christmas Musicale and Auditions

GEOF NESOSSI

It’s the most wonderful time of the year with the Fort Bend Boys Choir’s annual Christmas Musicale on Saturday, Dec. 5. Three performing choirs – Training, Town and Tour – will be showcased at Sugar Land Baptist Church, 16755 Southwest Freeway in Sugar Land at 7 p.m. Special guests include Music Magic, the organization's music class for 6and 7-year-olds. Tickets are available by calling the choir office, from any choir member or at the door. Adult admission is $15 and children 12 and under are $5. All proceeds from the musicale are used for program support, operational expenses and scholarships. Open auditions for the Fort Bend Boys Choir will be held at the First United Methodist Church Missouri City, 3900 Lexington Blvd. from 9 a.m.-noon on Saturday, Dec. 12. Young boys from all over the Fort Bend and Houston metropolitan area have the opportunity to learn more about music and singing as well as many of life’s important lessons like leadership, making friends and building self-confidence. Boys age 8 and older with unchanged voices are invited to audition. No previous singing experience is necessary. Scholarships and carpooling assistance are available. Be sure to ask about the Music Magic class that starts in late February. Find out more by visiting fbbctx.org or call 281-240-3800 to schedule an alternate audition time. The North America Youth Chinese Orchestra.

Chinese Musical Performance At University Branch Library, Dec. 12 Fort Bend County Libraries will host a musical performance of “Asian Melody” by the North America Youth Chinese Orchestra on Saturday, Dec. 12, at 2 p.m. at the University Branch Library, located at 14010 University Blvd. in Sugar Land, on the UH campus. Directed by Changlu Wu, the orchestra consists of talented young ChineseAmerican student musicians who are passionate about their culture and its music. Using the violin and clarinet, as well as Chinese instruments such as the pipa, guzheng and zhong ruan, the musicians will perform a variety of traditional Chinese musical pieces. The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call the University Branch Library at 281-633-5100.

30 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

FROST FEST AT SIENNA PLANTATION DEC. 5-6 Parkas and gloves will be needed in Sienna Plantation, as the forecast calls for snow and fun at the community’s Frost Fest. Event-goers can frolic in 30,000 pounds of snow from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 5 and 6, at Sienna’s Village of Sawmill Lake. Inflatables will add to the fun and people will be able to take holiday pictures in a life-sized snow globe. Radio station Sunny 99.1 will be on-site playing Christmas music. On Sunday, visitors can don free ice skates and practice their spins as an ice rink will be staged at the model home park in the Village of Sawmill Lake. “A mountain of snow, ice skating and other yuletide activities are sure to spark the holiday spirit,” said Christen Johnson, marketing director for Sienna Plantation. Also helping set the mood will be holidayscented rooms in all model homes in Sienna, including the 13 new models in the Village of Sawmill Lake, Sienna Plantation’s newest collection of neighborhoods. “While touring our many luxurious models, visitors will be greeted by scented rooms, all in holiday fragrances,” Johnson said. “It will add a festive air to the model home tours.” Frost Fest visitors also can purchase raffle tickets for one of the 16 lavishly decorated wreaths that will be on display in the models. All wreaths will be raffled and proceeds will benefit Child Advocates of Fort Bend, which provides a voice for abused and neglected children through therapy, mentorship and advocacy. Two homes in Sienna Plantation will be among the residences showcased during the annual CASA Christmas Home Tour, slated for Dec. 11 and 12. The decorated wreaths will be on display and raffle tickets available at the Sienna Homefinder Center, 5777 Sienna Parkway, after Frost Fest.

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32 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

The ASID Holiday Showhouse will be open for visitation select dates in December.

asid holiday showhouse, dec. 5-6, 10-13 and 17-20 The Texas Gulf Coast Chapter (TGCC) of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) has announced the dates for its Holiday Showhouse located at 54 North Windsail Place in The Woodlands. This home will be designed and furnished by some of the most talented designers from TGCC ASID. The open house will take place on Dec. 5-6, 10-13 and 17-20 with the hours as follows: Thursdays – Fridays, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; and Sundays, noon–5 p.m. The showhouse will close after tours on Sunday, Dec. 20. ASID has presented showhouses across the Houston metroplex since beginning in 1975 and first showcased a home in The Woodlands in 1998. This will be the fourth Woodlands holiday showhouse and the first major renovation of an estate home. The other three showhomes in The Woodlands were new construction. A design committee works with all of the designers to maintain a flow to the home while at the same time allowing each designer to bring their own creativity to the project. This home and its setting are unique in that the land is over an acre and boasts over 300 feet of lake frontage. Additionally, the back of the home faces east, so the home is basked in light. The three-story home resembles a castle sitting amidst beautifully manicured lawns, complete with water features and bronze statues to a negative edge pool and a floating boat dock. The halls will be decked for the holidays, so you won't want to miss it. Pre-sale tickets are available for $12. Ticket prices will go up to $15 on Dec. 5. Visit asidholidayshowhouse.eventbrite.com to purchase tickets. For more information, visit asidtgcc.org/holidayshowhouse.

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GET HOLIDAY BOW-MAKING TIPS AT MAMIE GEORGE BRANCH LIBRARY, DEC. 9 Get ideas for new ways to dress up your holiday packages at a special program, “Curly, Twirly, & Bow: Holiday Bow-Making Techniques,” at Fort Bend County Libraries’ Mamie George Branch Library, 320 Dulles Avenue in Stafford, on Wednesday, Dec. 9, from 10-11 a.m, in the makerspace area of the library. Learn how to create a variety of bows that can be used to adorn packages or hair clips. Ribbon will be provided and those attending the program will leave with at least one completed bow. The program is free and open to the public. Seating is limited, however, and reservations are required. To register online at the library’s website (fortbend.lib.tx.us), click on “Calendar,” select “Mamie George Branch Library,” and find the program. Participants may also register by calling the library at 281238-2880, or by visiting the library.

DEW HOUSE QUILT EXHIBIT AND WASSAIL, DEC. 6 Coastal Prairie Quilt Guild members Cheryl Jacobs, Susan Bozart and Barbara Young, were literally on hand at Dew House to show and teach visitors quilting techniques such as "paper patch" and "yoyo" in October. Mark your calendars for the Annual Dew House Holiday Wassail to be held Dec. 6 from 1-4 p.m. where Santa will be on hand to hear wishes from kids of every age. School groups such as the Scanlan Oaks Elementary Whistlestops and the Elkins Knightbeats will be there to entertain guests as they enjoy cookies and wassail. This event is free to the public. The Dew House is located at the back of Kitty Hollow Park just off Highway 6. For more information, visit fortbendmuseum.org/dewalt-heritage-center.html.

INKY PANELS BOOK CLUB AT MISSOURI CITY BRANCH LIBRARY The Inky Panels Graphic-Novel Book Club meets on the fourth Monday of every month at 5 p.m. in the library’s Conference Room. The book club is free and open to the public. For more information, call the branch library at 281-238-2100.

Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015 | 33

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Child Advocates Of Fort Bend CASA Christmas Home Tour, Dec. 11 and 12 The Fred and Mabel R. Parks Foundation, Child Advocates of Fort Bend (CAFB) staff, committee members, decorators and homeowners are gearing up for the 24th annual CASA Christmas Home Tour, scheduled for Friday, Dec. 11 and Saturday, Dec. 12. Neighborhoods confirmed for 2015 include Sienna Plantation and Imperial. “Fred and Mabel R. Parks Foundation has had a long-standing relationship with this agency and with our Home Tour. We are so excited that they came forward to kick off the sponsor drive again this year as our Event Underwriter,” said CAFB CEO Ruthanne Mefford. Proceeds from the Christmas Home Tour help CAFB advocate for the needs of abused and neglected children in this community. Through its two programs, Court Appointed Special Advocates and the Children’s Advocacy Center, the agency touches the lives of more than 400 young victims each month. A Fort Bend holiday tradition, the tour offers guests the opportunity to view beautifully decorated homes in Fort Bend County while helping to raise needed funds to support CAFB’s programs. Tour hours are 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. on Dec. 11 and 12 with a candlelight tour on Dec. 11 from 6-9 p.m. Sponsors and volunteers are needed to support the tour. If you would like to participate, contact Lisa Moore at 281-344-5108 or lmoore@cafb.org. For updates on home locations and ticket sales, go to cafb.org/Events/Home-Tour. The wreath raffle will take place again this year. Wreaths decorated by each of the decorators on the tour will be raffled during the tour. Images of the wreaths will be available on the website, but guests may view the wreaths in person at the homes. Raffle tickets will be available at all of the home tour homes and at the Special Tour Lunch.

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AUTISM PLAY GROUP OF FORT BEND COUNTY MEETING, DEC. 12 This group provides social opportunities for children with autism ages 1-12 years and their families while building a support network in Fort Bend county. Members meet six times per year at various locations. The December meeting will be held from 10 a.m. to noon at Duhacsek Park, 17034 Old Richmond Road in Sugar Land. Thanks to local sponsors, drinks, snacks and door prizes are provided. Attendance is free but donations are appreciated and RSVP is required. For more information, contact Susan at susan@susangar.com or call her at 281-726-2665.

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ANNUAL WINTER WONDERLAND, DEC. 12 The Imperial Park Recreation Center invites parents to bring their little one to the fifth annual Winter Wonderland on Dec. 12, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., at the Imperial Park Recreation Center, 234 Matlage Way. This event offers an opportunity to get some last minute holiday shopping done, take some time alone or have lunch with friends. Children will have a day packed with hours of fun activities including entertainment, crafts and lots of real snow. Santa will even stop by for a visit. Registration is now open to children ages 5-12. Imperial Park Recreation Center members can sign up their children for $5 each and non-members can sign up for $20 per child. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Snacks and lunch will be provided, and each child will receive a free event t-shirt. The general public is invited to stop by from 2-4 p.m. to play in the snow, warm up with hot chocolate and watch an authentic Hawaiian Christmas show performance from 2-3 p.m. For more information, call 281-2752885 or visit sugarlandtx.gov.

TRAVIS HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAD HOLIDAY HAYRIDES , DEC. 3-20 Travis High School Prograd holiday hayrides will be held Dec. 3 through Dec, 20 on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings, with proceeds benefitting the THS ProGrad 2016 Celebration. Hayrides will run from 6:30 p.m. until 10 p.m. and will leave from Pecan Grove Elementary School parking lot. Rides are $5 per person with children 2 and under free. Reservations are highly recommended, but walk-ups are welcome! Visit TravisTigerProGrad.com and click on the fundraiser tab to make reservations, or email pghayride@gmail.com. Hot chocolate and cookies will be available. Bring your family and friends, support THS ProGrad, and enjoy the lights of the season!

36 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

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GEORGE RANCH HISTORICAL PARK AND FORT BEND MUSEUM, DECEMBER EVENTS Join the Fort Bend Museum Docents on Friday, Dec. 4 from 6-8 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 5 from 2-8 p.m. for the annual Candlelight Tours of the 1883 John M. Moore home. This year’s theme is “To Grandmother’s House We Go: A 1950s-era Moore Family Christmas.” Guests are invited to experience the sights and sounds of a mid-century Christmas during this year’s tours, and each room in the historic home will be decorated with all the trimmings of the season. Complimentary wassail and cookies will also be served. Group tours can be arranged during regular museum hours in December. Tickets are $6 for adults, $5 for seniors and $4 for children. For more information, visit fortbendmuseum.org or call 281-3426478. The Fort Bend Museum is located at 500 Houston Street in Richmond. The annual Candlelight Tours are sponsored by the Fort Bend Museum Docents and all proceeds benefit the educational and preservation efforts of the Fort Bend Museum. Visit “Christmases Past” at the George Ranch Historical Park’s annual Campfire Christmas event. Set for Dec. 11, 12, 18 and 19, the event features hearty food, Texas traditions and Christmas cheer on the ranch. First, guests will enjoy a multi-era holiday meal complete with 1930s cowboy music. After dinner, guests will jump back in time to visit a “newly-built” log cabin on Christmas Eve 1825. “Old 300” settlers Henry and

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Specializing in Dentistry for Children and those with Special Needs Nancy Jones will share what life was like as a Texas pioneer on the wild frontier and will teach visitors about the early Welsh Christmas traditions of their ancestors. Next, guests will jump forward 44 years to an 1869 campfire as the local cowboys pay a visit to the neighboring sharecropper for the evening. Hot cider and coffee will be served as the conversation turns to the growing systems of sharecropping and cattle drives of the era. The evening’s final stop will be the Davis Victorian Mansion, which will be decked out for a festive family Christmas in 1888. “Guests will learn about the changes the family underwent in this critical year – and about special Victorian traditions,” said Director of Programs Krystal Willeby. Reservations are required and are nonrefundable. Tickets are $50 for adults and $45 for children, seniors and groups of 10 or more. Note: Campfire Christmas is recommended for adults and children ages 8 and up. For younger children, a special Children’s Campfire Christmas event will be held on Thursday, Dec. 17. Children’s Campfire Christmas begins at 6 p.m. and includes a light dinner, Christmas crafts, a hayride through the Park and singing Christmas songs around the campfire. Tickets for Children’s Campfire Christmas are $30 for adults, $25 for children ages 5 to 15 and $10 for children 4 and under. The George Ranch Historical Park is located at 10215 FM 762 in Richmond. Operating hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit georgeranch.org or call 281-343-0218.

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String Theory String Orchestra Holiday Music at First Colony Branch Library, Dec. 12 Live holiday music by talented local musicians in the String Theory String Orchestra will be featured when Fort Bend County Libraries presents “Music to Inspire Your Christmas Spirit” on Saturday, Dec. 12, at 2 p.m., at 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land. String Theory String Orchestra is an all-string ensemble of violins, violas, cellos and a bass violin. The group, which consists of professional and semi-professional musicians from Fort Bend County, will perform a variety of seasonal music, from pops to classical. String Theory String Orchestra was founded in the summer of 2012 by a group of individuals who love to play chamber music and who wanted to explore the abundance of great string music this is often missed if one performs solely with a symphony orchestra. The performance is free and open to the public. For more information, call First Colony Branch Library at 281-238-2800. “Sleeping Beauty” marionettes.

George Memorial Library Hosts Marionette Show,Dec. 30 The Youth Services department at Fort Bend County Libraries’ George Memorial Library will present two performances of a special marionette puppet show, “Sleeping Beauty and the Handsome Prince,” on Wednesday, Dec. 30, at 3 p.m. and again at 4 p.m., at 1001 Golfview in Richmond. Master puppeteer Jean Kuecher, producer of Marionette Playhouse, will entertain children of all ages with her handcrafted marionettes on an elaborate stage, with music and lighting. In this puppet show, the Good Fairy helps the Handsome Prince battle the Wicked Witch’s dragon, but then the prince can’t remember how to awaken the Princess Sleeping Beauty. After the performance, stay to learn some of the backstage secrets. The delicately handcrafted, 1/3-life-sized marionettes are built by Kuecher, who also designs their beautiful costumes and majestic scenery. The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call George Memorial Library at 281-342-4455.

40 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

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Sugar Land Home & Garden Show,Jan. 30-31 The 6th Annual Sugar Land Home & Garden Show returns to the Stafford Centre, located at 10505 Cash Road in Stafford, for its sixth annual event on Saturday, Jan. 30 and, Sunday, Jan. 31. Homeowners interested in modifying their home space – indoors or out – will have an opportunity to meet with experts who can provide the right product or guidance, whether for a successful remodel or a new build. From appliances to patio pavers, and sunrooms to countertops, the show is certain to provide something for everyone. “This year’s Sugar Land Show will provide two cooking stages featuring demonstrations from Molly Fowler, The Dining Diva, as well as chefs from local restaurants,” said Tony Wood, president of Texwood Shows Inc., producer of the home and garden shows in Sugar Land, Cy-Fair and The Woodlands. Homeowners who enjoy outdoor living must not miss the “Texas Room,” which will be built by Sunspace Texas to showcase its WeatherMaster Plus stacking door system. Custom-designed to provide protection for sunrooms or covered patios, as well as those using them, from inclement weather, blistering sun and insects, the doors can be quickly and easily closed to safeguard property and guests against the unpredictability of the Gulf Coast’s spring and summer weather, and are just as easily reopened when the threat passes. If a new patio or outdoor kitchen is on a homeowner’s wish list, the Belgard Outdoor Living Ideas semi-truck, loaded with pavers, experts and ideas will be on-site both days. And gardeners with spring planting questions can find solutions at the Ask the Master Gardeners Booth, which will be staffed by Fort Bend County master gardeners throughout the two-day event. Returning to the 2016 show is Sensational Color’s Kate Smith, a color expert who will offer private color consultations by appointment, as well as to walk-up attendees, schedule permitting. For more information, or to sign up for a private session visit the show website. Smith suggests bringing electronic photographs, color swatches and room measurements. Keeping pace with the growth of technology in interior design, Hunter Douglas will feature its PowerView Motorization/Automation App, allowing homeowners to schedule automatic operations or operate window treatments remotely – all from a mobile device. To be demonstrated at the show by Custom Décor Solutions,the PowerView App can help homeowners create scenes to balance different lighting and privacy needs throughout the day, and adjust window treatments for temperature, privacy and security from across the room or across the world. “The Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center, which will hold its grand opening in May, has once again been selected as the show’s charity partner,” said Wood. “Volunteers will be on-hand both days to provide more information about this special project of the Children’s Museum of Houston.” Show hours are from 9 a.m.-7 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are cash only at $9 for adults, $8 for seniors, and free for children 12 years and younger. Free parking is available. For more information call 832-274-3944 or visit SugarLandHomeAndGarden.com, where tickets and a downloadable discount coupon for $2 off admission are available.

MIDNIGHT IN PARIS NEW YEAR’S EVE AT THE SAN LUIS RESORT The San Luis invites you to ring in the new year at “Midnight in Paris,” an all-inclusive evening of music, food, celebration and more. Attendees will enjoy an award-winning chef’s four-course meal, generously hosted premium bar, entertainment by Password Band, Champagne toast, balloon drop, party hats and favors. Interested parties can book luxurious overnight accommodations and two extravaganza event tickets from $599 per couple. The New Year’s Eve celebration event is $199 per person. For more information or to book your ticket, call 409-744-1500.

North Pole Christmas returNs to Quail Valley The elves of Quail Valley invite you to meet Santa and enjoy the festivities at the North Pole Christmas on Dec. 11-13 and Dec. 18-24 from 6:30-9 p.m. The North Pole is a must stop to prepare for the holidays with a band, a children's handbell choir, carolers and good neighborly fun. Christmas lights on Boca Raton and Kiamesha streets lead the way to Boca Court and Santa. Just follow the lights! On very cold nights the North Pole has a heater to keep Santa, his helpers and visitors warm. North Pole Christmas began more than 20 years ago when neighbors living in the Boca Court cul-de-sac in Quail Valley, led by Head Elf Jim Hays, created a unique, fun Christmas tradition as a gift for their neighbors. Adults who were brought to the North Pole as children now bring their own families. All ages enjoy the North Pole tradition and having their picture taken with Santa. Over the years, the youngest visitor was less than a month old and the oldest visitor was over 100. Don’t forget your camera and your letter to Santa to go in the mailbox!

Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015 | 41

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CAFB Garden Party 1

Scene in The Bend

CAFB Garden Party Child Advocates of Fort Bend held a Garden Party in the lovely home of Sandy McGee and Terry Gaul. Sandy made the delicious food and Jan and Lee Leaman donated the amazing wines. Guests also sampled special homemade cheeses from Dr. Ivan Mefford. Valerie Lee sang for the guests. As a special treat, pianist David Syme performed a mini concert to everyone’s delight! Syme is an alumnus of Julliard and Indiana University and a protégé of the legendary Jorge Bolet. Photo Credit: Child Advocates 1) Mary and Phil Hulsizer 2) Brooke Thomspon and Lauren Goonan 3) Betty Baitland and Regina Morales 4) Deborah and Richard Mazzola

by Cari Middaugh FOR GALAS, PARTIES, LUNCHEONS Email: cari.fblifestyles@gmail.com

FOR SCHOOL & STUDENT NEWS AND OTHER HAPPENINGS: editor@lifestyles-magazines.com

BEERFEST

42 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

River Bend County Club recently celebrated the month of October with its 4th Annual BEERFEST hosted by Sugar Land’s own “High Tech Texan, “ Michael Garfield. Club members and the public were welcomed in to sample unique beers and brews from some of Houston’s best breweries, including Saint Arnold’s, Buffalo Bayou, Karbach, Southern Star, No Label and 8th Wonder. Photo Credit: Cari Middaugh 1) Robb Taylor, Jamie Wing, Michael Garfield, Birdie Gooch and Cari Middaugh 2) Members Stan Bucek and Craig Stephens 3 Garrett Hart with Lauren and Chris Traina, event sponsors from CWT Construction 4) Emma with 8th Wonder Brewery, Tricia Hawks, RBCC and David Federline.

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American Cancer Society Couture for the Cause 5

American Cancer Society Couture for the Cause The American Cancer Society’s Couture for the Cause — A White Haute Affair, presented by Wealth Design Group, was recently held at the beautiful Sugar Land home of Brenda and Randy Bartley. Each year this event raises thousands of dollars for cancer programs and services as well as for the soon to be built Hope Lodge Houston. The event was centered around a dazzling style show produced by Lenny Matuszewski and featured guest models who are either currently fighting or have won their battle against cancer. Photo Credit: Mary Favre and Liz Furman

1) The 2015 Couture for the Cause Committee 2) Glory and Wes Craft 3) Doug and Susie Goff with Mary Favre 4) Co-Chairs Amy West and Julissa Duran 5) RV and Amy Brinkerhoff, Veronica Vela, Nok Davis, Maria Garza and Birdie Gooch 6) Joan and Neal Vogan 7) Meichelle Benard and Ruth Ann Mefford 8) Michael Garfield and Cari Middaugh 9) Valerie Marun, Amy West and Brett Beach 10) Brenda Bartley and Amy West

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Parks Youth Ranch Cowboy Up Cowboy Up, the annual fundraiser for the Parks Youth Ranch, was a huge success this year with over 600 tickets sold! Presented by the Fred and Mabel R. Parks Foundation, the event raised over $225,000 in proceeds. A highlight of the evening was the Carl Favre True Believer Award given to the St Laurence Social Concern Ministry. Photo Credit: Mary Favre and Liz Furman

1) Lacey and Lee Perez 2) Dick Hogan, Pennie DeGroot and Mary Favre - 3 years of True Believers Award Recipients 3) Honorary Chairs Carol and Bob Brown 4) Zoe, Chris, Mary, Nick and Amber Favre 5) Sydney Bloesch and Courtney Townsend 6) Pat and Brad Somers 7) Co-Chair Shanna Wozny, PYR Executive Director Shannon Bloesch and Co-Chair Holly Kaminga 8) Lacey and Lee Perez, Holly and Scott Kaminga and Jamie and Aaron Fish l

Parks Youth Ranch Cowboy Up

44 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

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FINE ACCESSORIES, ARTS AND AREA RUGS

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STEPPED BRIDGET RUG Couture Craft. Knotted by hand from lustrous banana silk with natural jute accents. Neutral and variegated colors and simple patterns let the craft speak for itself. These rugs are the strong silent type—a fab foundation for your floor that is packed with style. Each one takes a craftsman 4-6 weeks to make. jonathanadler.com

SNOW DAY HOLIDAY PILLOW A joyful snowman greets a snowy day with outstretched arms in this whimsical design by Joan Anderson of A&B Designs. Standing out white against a red felt background, the snowman is detailed with hand-guided machine embroidery. Pillow reverses to solid red. Decorative pillows include your choice of a plush feather-down or lofty down-alternative insert at no extra cost. crateandbarrel.com

AMANDA BRISBANE ORANGE BLAZE GLASS BOWL The Orange Blaze Glass Bowl, an exclusive of Neiman Marcus, is a floriform bowl by artist Amanda Brisbane, who has been hailed as the United Kingdom's foremost sandcasted-glass artist. neimanmarcus.com

SAN VINCENT SANTOS Saint Vincent de Paul was a Catholic priest who dedicated his life to serving the poor and is the patron saint of charitable societies. This rustic statue commemorates him, cast in lightweight resin with a hand-painted finish. Add him to your collection in honor of his extreme generosity and compassion. This San Vincent Santos is a hand-painted depiction of the charitable Saint Vincent. Showcase solo or alongside other religious iconography. wisteria.com

ELSIE TABLE LAMP Because occasionally you need a little backup to light up the room. The Elsie, with its bold glass globe base, is certainly up for the task. Turquoise glass base. katespade.com

46 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

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48 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

CROSSWORDS FOR CHRISTMAS

EAT SMART RESOLUTION

The release of The New York Times ‘Tis the Season Crosswords means that it’s time for cocoa, Christmas trees and winter holidays. St. Martin’s Press, home of the classic New York Times Crosswords and Sudoku collections, and internationally treasured puzzle creator Will Shortz present the newest edition of puzzles for insatiable puzzle addicts. This collection showcases 165 of America’s favorite puzzles in a beautiful spiral bound, wintertheme package and is a perfect gift for family, friends and coworkers.

The revised and expanded bestseller The World’s Healthiest Foods hits shelves just in time for New Year’s resolutions. This award-winning nutritional blockbuster offers the definitive guide for a healthy lifestyle through eating the right foods. Author George Mateljan, a longtime leader in the healthy eating revolution, focuses on the top 100 foods needed to maximize health, including fruits and vegetables, eggs and dairy, seafood, nuts and seeds, legumes, grains, meats and flavorings to help you eat smart.

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Written by American songwriter James Lord Pierpont for Sunday-school children to perform at an 1857 Thanksgiving concert, “Jingle Bells” is now an irreplaceable part of Christmas traditions around the world. Jingle Bells: A Magical Cut-Paper Edition, Niroot Puttapipat’s exquisite edition, with his silhouetted illustrations both bold and delicate, follows a sleigh ride across a snowy landscape. Featuring scenes that change on every spread and a stunning 3-D pop-up at the end, this holiday keepsake captures the thrill of a winter adventure and the magic of the season.

GIN: The Manual, by Dave Broom, covers 120 gins that Dave has tasted individually and also in four different preparations – with tonic, with Sicilian lemonade, in a Negroni and in a Martini – and then scored as to how each stands up to the four preparations. There are also recipes to help explore the joys of gin in myriad other ways, such as in a Martinez and Gin Fizz. In addition, each gin is categorized according to a flavor camp system, which highlights its core properties and allows drinkers to understand how to find the gin best suited to taste preferences and how to best drink and enjoy it.

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• Unique and designer clothes • Fabulous jewelry • Boots and Yellow Box shoes • Round Top Yard Art • Infant and Children’s clothes • Tyler candles • Gifts galore • Plus Sizes

TINY TREASURES Cozy hats, tiny jackets and “blankies” kids can’t live without are tiny treasures when knitted by someone who loves them. With One-Skein Wonders for Babies, a cute collection of 101 knitting projects for outfitting infants and toddlers using one skein of yarn, knitters can make precious items easily, sometimes even in one day. Editor Judith Durant has gathered 101 of the sweetest designs from top knitwear designers to offer every level of knitter an inviting variety of styles, including practical leg warmers, huggable stuffed animals, baby bootees and more.

GLOBAL LIBATIONS From the Lower East Side of New York to Paris, London and the beaches of Ibiza, the collection of 85 very special cocktail recipes included in the pages of Experimental Cocktail Club takes inspiration from classic American and French cocktails, served with an unmistakable Experimental Cocktail Club (ECC) twist and flair. Authors Romee de Goriainoff, PierreCharles Cros and Olivier Bon include recipes for Stockholm Syndrome, Tete de Mule, as well as ECC’s take on classics such as the Negroni, Margarita, Moscow Mule and Strawberry Daiquiri. These are cocktails with decidedly global appeal.

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Style } file

Lifestyles & Homes } Fashion + Beauty } What’s in store now.

Stella McCartneyAlana Dress from the Green Carpet collection in black lace and floral print silk. stellamccartney.com

Fendi- Crazy Carats stainless steel topaz watch with white diamond bezel. neimanmarcus.com

Missoni- Short-sleeved dress with small ruff high neck, slightly rolled at the waist, in knit with embossed stitch. missoni.com

Oscar de la RentaRadzimir & Duchess Satin Strapless Cocktail Dress has a sensual back cutout. oscardelarenta.com

Armenta- Sueno Cross Enhancer with Diamonds in 18-karat yellow gold. bergdorfgoodman.com

Miu Miu - Multi-color metal and crystal earrings. miumiu.com

Valentino GaravaniLove Latch pumps in red and black leather and patent leather. farfetch.com

Fendi-Baguette peach calfskin shoulder bag is decorated with crystal buckle and logo. fendi.com

50 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

Alice + Olivia- Black Hollie High Neck Embellished Short Flare Gown has strategically placed embellishments. lyst.com

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Style } file

Fendi-Rust orange wool shirt with leather details and camel trousers. fendi.com

Lifestyles & Homes } Fashion + Beauty } What’s in store now.

Fendi-Long red double-breasted coat with rust-orange collar and contrasting horizontal insert. fendi.com

Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015 | 51

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Style } file

Lifestyles & Homes } Fashion + Beauty } What’s in store now.

Oscar de la Renta- Multi Swarovski Crystal Pave Tulip Necklace is set in light Russian gold and embellished with pavé crystals. oscardelarenta.com

Fendi-3Jours sienna red soft calfskin shopping bag with contrasting multicolor raw edges. fendi.com

Gucci- Satin wrap wedge in pink satin. gucci.com

Fendi - Crystal-embellished cat-eye acetate sunglasses. net-a-porter.com

Gucci- Patent leather pump in red. gucci.com

Tracy Reese-The perfect Conrad Cardigan is a little less than a jacket and a little more than a sweater. tracyreese.com

Missoni- Knitted skirt in salmon pink. missoni.com

52 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

ETRO- Stretch jersey printed dress is finished with contrast black panel at waist. stylebop.com

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Style} file Lifestyles & Homes } Fashion + Beauty What’s in store now.

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Tory Burch-Embellished small shoulder bag in suede and smooth leather is Moroccan style with semi-precious lapis stones. toryburch.com Clover CanyonThis season Clover Canyon’s clothes conjures the fantastic with bibbed and pintucked blouses, ponchos, paisleys and sequined rainbows. clovercanyon.com

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Alexis BittarLucite double-Sided Link Station Necklace has clear cabochon accents. neimanmarcus.com

Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015 | 53

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ç By Kelly Foss mycardata.com

Nissan Maxima and Lexus NX

NIssan Maxima | Starting price: $32,500

ince 1981, Nissan has sold 2.9 million Maximas in the U.S., which means as four-door sedans go, the Maxima has been a force in the American landscape. For 2016, the Maxima gets a major redesign both inside and out. The new exterior is at once bold and conservative. Heavily sculpted and chiseled lines are a striking contrast to its more understated front and rear ends. The front fascia represents a nice balance between modern design and a little bit of glitz, and unique 19-inch alloy wheels add even more flair. It certainly stands out among its competitors such as the Toyota Avalon or Chrysler 300. Nissan has always referred to the Maxima as a 4-door sport sedan. This year, the company upped the horsepower just a bit to

solidify that claim. What lies beneath the hood of the new Maxima is a 300-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 engine that delivers a solid 261 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) it has an EPA fuel economy rating of 22/30 city/highway. Engineers reduced weight by 82 pounds through the use of more aluminum and highstrength steel, which also increased torsional rigidity by 25 percent. This adds up to be a lean, mean, fuel-efficient driving machine. So, how does it drive? In a word, tight. Many full-size sedans are plagued with that wallowy, pillow-like ride quality. That’s great if you’re regularly driving parade routes. But the Maxima is designed for those who like to engage with their car. The ride quality is solid and dynamic with just the right

Lexus NX | Starting price: 35,000

he crossover segment remains ever popular and Lexus has added to its luxury lineup with the entry-level NX. Though it is built on an entirely new platform, the NX does share some architecture with the Toyota RAV4. Lexus tells us that the NX consists of 90 percent new parts and is 20 percent more rigid than its Toyota counterpart. Beyond Utility, the NX is touted as tech-savvy. Lexus Corporate Marketing Manager Brian Bolaine says the NX is a blend of energy, technology, and modern style. Driving one, you can easily see that this vehicle holds true to those claims. Like so many other carmakers, Lexus has turned to a small turbo-powered engine for this vehicle. The 2.0-liter turbo yields 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft. of torque. It is definitely quick and the NX’s small size adds to its nimbleness and agility. Mated to a 6-speed transmission, you can opt for either front- or all-wheel drive models as well. You can also opt for the

54 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

amount of road feedback to let you know you’re in control of the situation. In fact, the Maxima almost seems to handle better under — dare I say it — a lead foot. The CVT has been tuned to behave less like the gearless transmission it is and more like a traditional transmission. Nissan’s Xtronic software takes into account six different variables — accelerator-pedal position, road grade, acceleration and cornering g’s, road speed, and braking g’s — that factor into how the CVT reacts. The driver can also select Normal and Sport modes. In other words, the Maxima is quite pleasurable to drive, and does in fact handle like a sport sedan. Inside, the Maxima offers refined styling and can get downright luxurious. Inspired by fighter jets, designers tilted the 8-inch center touch screen seven degrees toward the pilot... errr, driver. If the tilt of the screen isn’t enough, get your navigational direction via the 7-inch display located between the speedometer and tachometer. The flatbottom steering wheel is a unique and sporty touch. The platinum edition boasts mahogany trim and supportive, beautifully quilted leather seats. Ranging in price from about $33,000 to just north of $40,000, the Maxima is fun to drive no matter the trim level. With a solid 21-year reputation, the Maxima will no doubt be around for a long time to come.

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2.5-liter hybrid, which gets 35 mpg on the highway and 31 mpg in the city. The NX rides as you would expect from Lexus, with a quiet cabin and smooth operation. There is definitely a sporty feel to the NX by way of handling. Steering feels crisp and it handles curves like a sports car. Though compact, the NX carries a curb weight of 4,021 pounds, which is quite beefy. The turbo goes from 0-60 mph in 6.9 seconds, which isn’t light-up-the-track fast, but fast enough for everyday drivers. Tack on the F-sport trim, which tightens up the suspension and adds paddle shifters, and you’ve got yourself an engaging drive. Overall, the ride quality is pleasant with just a touch of sportiness. Both the exterior and interior design reflect each other: bold, aggressive, and compact. The NX was designed to capture the younger crowd, and it shows. The exterior features arrowheadshaped LED daytime running lights and body so aggressively sculpted, it almost looks angry. The interior instrument panel is busy, but intuitive. Notable features include an on-board charging station for your cellphone and a new touchpad control, which acts and feels just like the touchpad on your laptop. You can swipe, pinch, and zoom for intuitive navigation around the myriad of apps and offerings available on the display screen. The seats are body-hugging, doing a good job of holding one in place. And the back seat feels just roomy enough for two grown adults. Fold the seats down and you get about 54 cubic feet of cargo capacity, so throw a mountain bike back there and head for the hills. The NX is also capable of towing 1,500 pounds. Pricing ranges from the mid-30s for a front-wheel drive turbo, to the mid-40s for an all-wheel drive hybrid. Whatever trim you choose, this compact crossover is built for fun. For information on these and other vehicles, visit mycardata.com.l

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State Highway 6: The Road More Traveled CITY OF MISSOURI CITY

The road reflects the changing face of Fort Bend County

CITY OF MISSOURI CITY

Fort Bend Hospital on Murphy Road at HIghway 6, 1992-93.

By Michelle Johnson n Fort Bend County, State Highway 6 has become an important thoroughfare for the cities of Sugar Land and Missouri City. This stretch of highway has progressed from farms to beautifully landscaped views of master planned communities and retail establishments. The changes along State Highway 6 reflect the rapid development of the Sugar Land and Missouri City areas.

The Simple Life In the early 1970s, Highway 6 was a two-lane farm road void of street lights, businesses and traffic. The only visible movement was from cows and horses grazing the wide open fields, along with the occasional tractor and ranch hand. This land was farmed by those raising cotton, sugar cane, corn and cattle. A view of the greatly developed Highway 6 near Murphy Road today.

56 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

CITY OF MISSOURI CITY

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The Lowe’s Home Improvement store was built on the site of the former Fort Bend Hospital.

One of the larger ranches that lined this open road was the Frost Ranch. Rancher Milo Frost purchased 4,500 acres from Sugar Land Industries in 1940, establishing headquarters for the Frost Brahman Ranch located at the intersection of Dulles Avenue and Highway 6. Frost headquarters moved to a location closer to FM 1092 (Murphy Road) in 1970. Today, this area is occupied by the master planned community of Riverstone. Advancement in Community Development The first master planned community along Highway 6 started in 1976, when Sugarland Properties purchased 10,000 acres of land for the purpose of developing the area known as First Colony. The master plan was established in 1981, with a projected 7,500 to 8,000 homes for the community. In 1978 Johnson Development acquired the land for Sienna Plantation. In the mid1980s, a 10-mile-long levee system across 6,000 wooded acres was completed, providing flood protection to the area. The building phase for homes in this 10,000acre, master-planned community did not begin until 1998. Commercial Development Fluor Daniel purchased 300 acres of land from Sugarland Properties in 1981. Their facility opened in 1984, bringing new employment opportunities to the area. The area’s rising population dictated the need for a community hospital. In 1983, Fort Bend Hospital opened its facility

located at FM 1092 and Highway 6. Physician Deidre McMullen recalled, “In 1996, I served my residency at Fort Bend Hospital. After driving past First Colony, there was nothing but fields and cows. I wondered what I had gotten myself into.” The hospital was purchased by Memorial Hermann in 1993 and continued to operate until 2006, when the hospital moved to

its current facility on the Grand Parkway at Highway 59. The Fort Bend Hospital building was destroyed in 2008 to make room for Lowes Home Improvement, which opened in June 2009. The area continued to grow at an extreme pace, progressing from one hospital surrounded by open farm lands to a thriving retail and residential community. According to Milo Frost’s son, Ford, “We sold 65 acres to Walmart in 1996 and the final 309 acres to Riverstone in 1998.” Although the facade of the area was constantly changing, according to Ford Frost one thing did not change. “From the time I was very young until today, I can drive down Highway 6 in the early hours of the morning, and the look of the land with the dew rising off Oyster Creek remains. Even with all of the lights and buildings, the nature of the area looks just like it did when I was a kid.” Sugarland Properties partnered with Hines Development in 1993 to design First Colony Mall. The 78-acre location was completed in 1995. Planned Community Developers, Ltd, (PCD) was formed in 1997

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Construction in progress of Riverstone Boulevard in 2002.

by executive officers of Sugarland Properties. PCD continued with the expansion of the area in 1999 with Town Center Lakeside, at Highway 6 and Highway 59. Surprisingly, there were no supermarkets on Highway 6 for the residents in the Missouri City area. The only option Highway 6 offered was Randalls located in Sugar Land. In 1998, the expanding population of the Missouri City area brought a Kroger grocery store to the intersection of FM 1092 Murphy Road and Highway 6. A contributing factor to the rapid growth of the area was Johnson Development’s new master-planned community, Riverstone. Building of the Riverstone area commenced in 2001, with a plan for 6,000 homes on 3,700 acres. First Colony Expanded Development PCD partnered with the City of Sugar Land to further develop the area by First Colony Mall with the addition of Sugar Land Town Square. The first phase of the project opened in 2003, with retail establishments and the Marriott Hotel. Late in 2004, Sugar Land City Hall was a welcome addition to the complex. Sugar Land Town Square, completed in 2010, has become a destination for residents to live, work, shop, dine and enjoy entertainment events. It is also the home of many corporate entities, including the headquarters for Minute Maid, CVR Energy and Cosentino North America. Not only have these additions created over 2,000 jobs, but they have contributed to

58 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

city of sugar land

johnson development

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An aerial view of U.S. 59 and Highway 6 between 2006-2007.

the overall growth of the area. In 2005, PCD began development of Lake Pointe Town Center at the northwest corner of Highway 59 and Highway 6. The site is occupied by retail, restaurants and a Whole Foods Market that opened in 2007. According to Les Newton of PCD, “We worked for a long time trying to get Whole

Highway 6 continues to attract business to the area, constantly upgrading services to accommodate the growing population. Foods to open a location in Sugar Land. This was the first suburban location for them in the Houston area. They worried that a suburban site would not do as well as the larger city stores, but Sugar Land was a success.” Historical Change The year 2006 brought a major change on Highway 6. Since the early 1900s, the Dew Plantation occupied a historical spot on Highway 6. The Dew family donated the home to Missouri City, and it was moved to Kitty Hollow Park in February 2006. Restoration of the plantation home began, and the grand opening was held in January 2011. Baseball Comes To Sugar Land Constellation Field was built on 20 acres

of land formally owned by Imperial Sugar at Highway 6 close to Highway 90. In 2011, construction of the complex commenced, and it now is the home for the Sugar Land Skeeters team, which belongs to the Atlantic League of professional baseball clubs. One year after construction began, the inaugural baseball season started. The complex offers year-round entertainment and family oriented activities. Continuing Need for Expansion In the mid-1990s, State Highway 6 expanded from the original two-lane concrete road to an upgraded asphalt surface. The roadway progressed to four lanes, eventually being replaced by six lanes that now serve as a major evacuation route from Galveston and the Gulf Coast Region. With the addition of the Fort Bend Tollway in 2005, residents of the area have a more accessible route to all parts of the greater Houston area. In August 2016, construction will begin on Phase 3 of the City of Sugar Land’s planned expansion of Highway 6 from three lanes to four, between Brooks Street and Lexington Boulevard, to relieve the constant congestion of this highly traveled area. State Highway 6 has become a successful mix of medical, office retail, restaurant, entertainment and residential communities. It continues to attract business to the area, constantly upgrading services to accommodate the growing population. l

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Army Sergeant Surprises Daughters After a Year’s Deployment in Afghanistan Middle schoolers get a sweet surprise

Sergeant David Blalock with Caitlyn (left) and Camryn. • The surprise reunion.

hat would have been a typical Friday morning at Baines Middle School turned into a morning of elation as U.S. Army Sergeant David Blalock surprised his daughters, Caitlyn and Camryn, with his return home from Afghanistan. The girls, in grades 6 and 7, had no idea their dad had returned home after a year-long deployment.

The Plan Blalock had contacted Baines Principal Jennifer Roberts to share his plan for reuniting with his daughters. He wanted to surprise them but needed help in working out the details. Roberts thought it was a great idea. She and Blalock solicited the help of the girls’ mother, Jennifer Snyder, and Broadcast teacher Angie Roberts in devising the perfect plan to reunite the girls with their father. “It was my honor and the least I could do for his service to our country,” said Roberts. “When Sergeant Blalock called,

I told him I was all in. However he wanted to do it, we would make it work.” Together, Roberts and her staff devised a plan to have Blalock sneak into the school and deliver morning announcements while the girls watched from the school’s library.

Close Encounter The morning of the reunion, Roberts and her “secret agents” put the plan into motion. Only a few key people were aware of what was happening. As the first bell sounded and the hallways were cleared, Blalock stood in position outside the broadcast studio where he knew his daughter Caitlyn would be. As he waited outside one door, Caitlyn was escorted out the other, just a few feet from her father. Roberts quickly led Caitlyn to the library for a “special assignment.” Once there, Caitlyn joined her sister, Camryn, who was sitting with her sixth-grade orchestra class in front of a projection screen.

The Stall To buy time while the Blalock girls were led to their designated areas, Principal Roberts made announcements on the PA system, one of which was a reminder of early dismissal. “Just remember that even though you’re here for only half a day, there’s still classroom work to do,” she said. “And I don’t know what some of you were thinking with your choice of clothing. The dress code still applies on half days.”

The Reveal Following Roberts’ announcements, the school’s Stampede Studios production team host introduced the special guest who would lead the Pledge of Allegiance and moment of silence. Appearing on every single TV screen throughout the campus was Caitlyn and Camryn’s dad, U.S. Army Sergeant David Blalock. “I pledge allegiance to the flag,” Blalock said. Caitlyn and Camryn watched with sheer excitement and disbelief as they wondered

Appearing on every single TV screen throughout the campus was Caitlyn and Camryn’s dad, U.S. Army Sergeant David Blalock. 60 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

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LIVE The Life YOU DESERVE “Is that really Dad… here …at our school?”

The Reunion The emotions ran high among the three family members as they raced along the school hallways to each other’s arms. Even though on crutches, Camryn kept up a good pace behind her big sister, Caitlyn. With only a short distance between them, the girls cried out, “Dad!” and the reunion began. Blalock took his girls into his arms, and for what seemed like a lifetime, joined in a family hug to make up for their time apart. After a few minutes, Blalock lifted his head and shared one very important piece of news with his daughters, “I brought donuts.” Their tears of joy quickly turned to laughter. When asked what she was thinking when she saw her dad, Caitlyn said, “When I saw the Army uniform on the screen, I thought that must be someone else. Then I heard my dad’s voice and my heart just dropped. I haven’t seen him in so long. I really missed him.” Camryn admits it’s been hard for her while her dad was away. “My mom helped me feel better and I knew he was coming home so there was no need to cry,” she said. “Now that he’s back, he’ll probably spoil us because he hasn’t seen us in a year.” Camryn plans to spend as much time with her father as she can while he’s home. “It was pretty awesome to see my daughters running to see me,” said Blalock. “This was a very surreal moment for me. I don’t really have to words to express how happy I am.” “This has been one of the coolest things to make happen,” said Roberts. “You see this type of story on the news, but to see it live and in person, you almost can’t describe it. It makes you speechless and emotional. I’m so happy we could do this for the Blalock family.” l

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Mary Joyce Enters City Council Race Running for Sugar Land City Council, At Large, Position 2

ary Joyce, long-time Sugar Land resident, has announced her intent to run as a candidate for the Sugar Land City Council, At Large, Position 2. Joyce brings over 25 years of experience in finance, contract negotiations, and project management with major corporations, as well as multiple years of service in community and civic organizations in Sugar Land. She has a Master of Business Administration degree in finance from the University of St. Thomas and a Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting from Texas Tech University. “Sugar Land’s rich history, planned development, great economy, low taxes, parks and open spaces as well as a

Mary Joyce has announced her candidacy for Sugar Land City Council.

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growing arts and cultural focus makes the city a perfect place to live, raise a family, work and own a business,” said Joyce. “I want to ensure the great quality of life we have enjoyed in the past is available for our citizens in the future. Serving on leadership committees in Sugar Land for years has given me a unique and fresh perspective on the challenges facing the city and the citizens of Sugar Land in the coming decade. My education in finance and years of experience in business have prepared me to address important issues such as economic growth, mobility, taxation, public safety, aging infrastructure, historical preservation, and arts and cultural development. I have proven to be a prepared, educated, trusted, articulate leader to the citizens of Sugar Land and look forward to serving them in the future as a member of the Sugar Land City Council, At Large, Position 2 ”. Joyce is currently serving on the Imperial Redevelopment District, co-chair of the Land Use Advisory Committee, is a board member of Fort Bend Cares, and a member of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Nonprofit Leadership Class of 2016. Additionally, Joyce served on the City of Sugar Land Vision 2025 Committee, The University North Citizens Taskforce on Mobility, and as a member of the Old Sugar Land Alliance Group. She and her husband, Justin, have been married for 31 years and raised their two grown children in Sugar Land. Their daughter Kathleen and her husband live in Spring, and son Conor will graduate from Texas A&M University in December. Early voting begins Monday, April 25, 2016 and ends May 3. Election Day is Saturday, May 7. More information can be found at maryjoyceforsugarland.com. l

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Madden Elementary School Dedication Ceremony Former students, family and friends help make event memorable for school’s namesakes

unday, October 18 was a special day for Carolyn and Vernon Madden as Fort Bend ISD officially dedicated the district’s 46th elementary school named in honor of the former educators. More than 350 guests – including members of the FBISD board of trustees, district and school administrators, Texas legislators, business executives and members of the Madden Elementary “Huskies” family – filled the school’s auditorium to celebrate the occasion and the lives of Carolyn and Vernon Madden. Pamela Brown, principal of Madden Elementary School, welcomed guests to the new school. Students Brody Gonzales and Filza Momin led the Pledges of Allegiance, and the school’s fourth and fifth grade choir provided entertainment by singing Pharrell Williams’ “Happy,” a song that captured the overall feeling of those in attendance. The Maddens have dedicated their entire careers to education. They came to Fort Bend ISD in 1963, hired by Superintendent L.P. Rodgers in his front yard while he worked in his flower bed. Vernon helped open Dulles High School as a student teacher in 1962. He later served the district as a teacher, coach, assistant principal and principal of Sugar Land Junior High School. Carolyn, a former Lakeview Elementary School Teacher of the Year, taught first and second grades and art classes to students in grades 3-5. The Maddens retired in 1994 and together have 61 years of education experience. “Fort Bend ISD has been around for many years, and the Maddens have been here since it started,” said Dr. Charles Dupre, superintendent of schools. “They have worked in the district most of their adult lives and are now being honored with a school that will be here for many years to come. This has been a long awaited moment, and I can only imagine how it feels.” Honored to have a school named after them, the Maddens see this as an opportunity to extend their family. “Not only are we celebrating the dedication of the new school, but we are celebrating our

64 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

(L-R): Madden Elementary School Assistant Principal Lisa Baum, FBISD Board Member Addie Heyliger, honorees Carolyn and Vernon Madden, FBISD Board Vice President Dave Rosenthal, Madden Elementary School Principal Pamela Brown; and (back) Superintendent of Schools Dr. Charles Dupre, FBISD Board Members KP George, Jim Rice and Jason Burdine; and State Representatives John Zerwas and Rick Miller.

Carolyn and Vernon Madden are pictured with their family members.

new family of students, parents, teachers and staff,” said Carolyn Madden. “We thank the Board of Trustees and the superintendent for making this possible.” The Maddens are proud to have their two children follow in their footsteps as educators. Their daughter, Mitzi, taught

at Highlands Elementary School and currently works at a private Christian pre-school. Their son, Michael, is a teacher and coach at Clements High School and is celebrating his 25th year in the district. It was Michael, in fact, who nominated his parents for the honor.

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“I am so proud of my parents and their service to the district, and what they’ve done in reference to shaping and molding the minds of so many students over the years,” he said. “This is the most incredible day ever.” During the dedication ceremony, Principal Pamela Brown took the opportunity to share the story of a young teacher who was fortunate to have the support and encouragement of the Maddens throughout her career. In the end, Brown revealed that she was the teacher mentioned in the story. “Carolyn and Vernon Madden are true heroes to our students, and most importantly, to me as an educator,” she said. “At Madden Elementary School, we will represent their legacy well, and together, build new traditions for which they will be proud.” To help mark the occasion and commend the Maddens on their dedicated service to students and staff of FBISD, State Representative John Zerwas presented Brown with a Texas flag on behalf of Representative Rick Miller and himself. Board Vice President Dave Rosenthal had the honor of officially dedicating the school. “On behalf of the FBISD Board of Trustees,” he said, “I officially dedicate this building as Carolyn and Vernon Madden Elementary School on this 18th day of October in 2015. May it serve our community with pride.” “It is so awesome that the Maddens have a school named after them, because they have been a part of this community for so long,” said Kellie Michalek, a former student of both the Maddens. “This moment is so surreal,” said Vernon Madden. “When we entered the District, we were treated like celebrities, but this tops it all.” The Maddens plan to become regular volunteers at the school to support their new “Huskies” family – a family they feel will continue for many years to come. l Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015 | 65

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Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation 2016 Founders Ball BIG WIGS ~ A Night of Entertainment (L-R): Gala honorary chair Pat Hebert; the special honoree of the evening and founding member of the SLCAF Don Smithers; gala chair Farrah Gandhi; gala signature sponsor Don Kerstetter; and gala chair Himesh Gandhi.

ugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation (SLCAF) and Classic Chevrolet have announced the 2016 Founders Ball will be held at Safari Texas on Jan. 23. This year’s theme will be BIG WIGS ~ A Night of Entertainment and is guaranteed to be an evening of BIG entertainment and BIG fun. Inspiration Stage, SLCAF’s partner, will provide the first class entertainment for the evening with a brand new Broadwayinspired musical performance that is sure to be the toast of the town! SLCAF was founded in 1999 with the objective of promoting the arts and preserving, renovating and restoring the historic Sugar Land Auditorium. The 394-seat auditorium has been fully restored and upgraded and is now the venue of many delightful performances. The historic landmark is an original audi-

66 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

torium to Lakeview Elementary school in ‘Old’ Sugar Land located in the heart of the Imperial Sugar original homes for employees known as ‘The Hill.” These homes were built by Imperial Sugar for

The mission of SLCAF includes the preservation of the history of Sugar Land and the promotion of the arts. the employees and their families. Billy Stritch calls the area ‘home’ and has said the Sugar Land Auditorium stage was the location of his first ever performance. Sugar Land Auditorium The mission of SLCAF includes the preservation of the history of Sugar Land

and the promotion of the arts. Although the restoration of the auditorium is nearing completion, the arts are a key component to the efforts of the organization. Don Kerstetter, owner of Classic Chevrolet and lover of the arts, said, “In my view, SLCAF provides a bridge from past to present to the future of our lovely community. The City of Sugar Land has a unique story filled with wonderful history, places and people. SLCAF for me is a reflection of the home town charm of Sugar Land, combined with an artistic sense second to none. From the preservation of architectural landmarks and culture to the celebration of its finest citizens, art and music, SLCAF provides a firm foundation to move our city forward with a strong focus on the future. Inspiration Stage The primary tenant for SLCAF’s treasured Sugar Land Auditorium, Inspiration Stage, is a Fort Bend County performing arts studio and theatre dedicated to empowering and encouraging students from ages 4 to 18. As artistic director of Inspiration Stage, Mandy Seymore-Sensat choreographs, directs and manages the programs at the Sugar Land Auditorium. Broadway hits for both children and adults have included the hilarious The Producers and the majestic The Lion King to name a few of the captivating performances provided by Inspiration Stage and performed at the Sugar Land Auditorium. Seymore-Sensat and Inspiration Stage will combine these talents and captivating story-telling abilities to create the entertainment for the Founders Ball. Although the exact play list is top secret, the examples of Inspiration Stage’s past performances inspire curiosity for the evening surrounding BIG WIGS.

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Gala Honorees This year’s gala honorees are Don and the late Merle Smithers, a couple who have been a part of the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation from the beginning, even before its current status as a nonprofit organization. Don and Merle lived in Sugar Land for many years and contributed to the community in the ways that they knew best. Don was a City Council member for the City of Sugar Land and Merle, a lover of history, found her place on the team working to preserve the Lakeview Auditorium. When asked about SLCAF and his participation, Don said, “This was really Merle’s passion that came from her interest in the history and the preservation of ‘the old things’. I was drawn in by her enthusiasm…I couldn’t say no.” Their fundraising efforts began with May Fest at the Lakeview Elementary school where Don said he believed they raised about $100. They moved on to Ice Cream Socials that raised about $300 and then to a gala where they raised several thousand dollars to help with the refurbishment of the auditorium. Don is proud of the success of the organization, stating, “ We started small, but kept working toward the goal. Now phases one and two of the auditorium are complete, and we have raised over $1,000,000 to date.” Merle Smithers has passed away, but her memory lives on in her devoted husband as well as in her founding contribution to the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation. Don continues to support the foundation in the community and spends his time with his children traveling the state participating in chili competitions, and more often than not, placing in the top three. Supporters Don Kerstetter of Classic Chevrolet has always been a generous supporter of SLCAF. He said, “I continue to lend support to SLCAF because I believe in their mission to preserve the unique culture of a very special community. While it is always

The Inspiration Stage performance of The Lion King.

important to concentrate on the economic health of our community, we must also focus day after day and year after year on the beautiful artistic soul of Sugar Land. I am continually amazed and grateful when I reflect on just what a terrific job SLCAF does providing us all the framework to let our imagination and hearts soar through its commitment to the arts. It makes me very happy to play a small part in an organization that so exquisitely represents the vital heart of our community.” The Founders Ball boasts Pat Hebert as the honorary chair of the evening while Himesh and Farrah Gandhi are co-chairs. Proceeds will benefit SLCAF’s goals, which include continued improvements to the Sugar Land Auditorium, the city’s oldest public space, and the continued support of the arts in Sugar Land. SLCAF is currently accepting sponsorships for the event at varying levels, while tables for 10 and individual tickets are also available for purchase. For tickets and more information, call 281-313-0752 or contact Farrah Gandhi at info@slcaf.org.l

The Sugar Land Auditorium.

Merle and Don Smithers, founding members of the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation. Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015 | 67

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LOGGINS JEWELERS BRING COLOR TO LIFE ! Captivating collections. Fine designers. The look you’re looking for. Loggins Jewelers in Sugar Land offers selection and service you won’t find anywhere else. This holiday season, the look is Loggins. 281-242-2900 logginsjewelers.com 14015 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land

AN ALBERT LUIZ SALON AND SPA Get holiday ready at An Albert Luiz Salon & Spa! Whether you want a beautiful holiday hairstyle and makeup or a completely new look, the perfect team is ready to get you the "Glam" you need. Salon services include Balayage and Dimensional Color techniques, Brazilian Blowout and split end repair treatments to lash extensions and Nano Keratin. The full service Spa offers massages, facials, body treatments and nail services. The perfect holiday gift awaits... purchase and print gift certificates online. 2181 Texas Drive in Sugar Land Town Square. 281-565-2213 aalss.com

AFTERGLOW HOT YOGA Afterglow Hot Yoga, Fort Bend County's premier yoga studio, offers a wide variety of full-body workouts that will get your heart pumping and your sweat on in a comfortable, fun atmosphere in a clean state-of-the-art facility. Classes are appropriate for all fitness levels. The studio has partnered with Texas Fresh Juice so you are able to have a fresh organic cold-pressed post-workout juice perfect for rehydration and revitalization. Surprise a special someone with a gift card or treat them to a great outfit or juice cleanse. Visit the website or call for more information. afterglowhotyoga.com 281-778-1242 texasfreshjuice.com 281-778-9377

68 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

THE BILLIARD FACTORY Enabling all friends and families to share priceless times together, one game room at a time. It is our pledge that the Billiard Factory will work hard to earn your business, striving to provide our customers with the highest quality products and top-notch Customer service. 281-444-5740 billiardfactory.com

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THE MAGNOLIA HOUSE Find the perfect unique gifts at The Magnolia House this year. Jewelry by Waxing Poetic, Chamilia, Sorrelli, and Chan lulu; witches, fairies, elves and Santas by Mark Roberts & Karen Didion; Consuela handbags; Tyler, Aromatizue & Lux fragrances; Clothing by MissMe, Rock Revival, and so much more. Come explore their Wonderland today! Open 7 days a week. 281-208-9955 6146 Highway 6 at Murphy Road, Missouri City (in Kroger Center)

FORT BEND KIA There’s no better place to make your new-car-for-the-holidays wishes come true than Fort Bend KIA. That’s because it’s more than just a dealership. Fort Bend KIA is where you’ll find exceptional personalized service and spectacular savings on incredible vehicles – including the all-new, sleek and sporty 2016 Optima. Make your holidays happier than ever… experience the difference of Fort Bend KIA. (866) 608-2703 fortbendkia.com 26633 SW Freeway, Rosenberg

ART IN THE CITY

ALL OUT OFFROAD For over 20 years, the team at All Out Offroad has rebuilt vintage models and tricked out newer cars, trucks, jeeps, and SUVs with the latest and greatest accessories. All Out Offroad now has three convenient locations in Richmond, Stafford and Pearland, with state-of-the-art facilities and a team of experts to help you. Come in today and check out what the man in your life really wants for Christmas. alloutoffroad.com Richmond: 708 Hwy 90A, 281-341-9494 Stafford: 13261 Murphy Rd., 281-499-3806 Pearland: 2720 Westminster St., 281-485-7003 Spring/Woodlands: 6445 FM 2920, 832-717-3855 DFW: 6920 NE Loop 820, 817-849-5777

Art in the City offers an exceptional selection of contemporary art in all sizes.They will have an art clearance sale from December 4-19, with savings up to 70%. Stop by to see their wonderful array of original art and accessories. Complimentary consulting is available. 713-552-0900 artinthecity.net 3601 West Alabama

THE HEART OF A WOMAN SPA Every woman deserves to be pampered! Heart of a Woman Spa is designed to cater to every woman’s needs in a glamorous, soothing environment that encourages health and wellness. This luxury day spa is designed to fit the unique needs of women of every age, shape, and size. They embrace you, make you feel comfortable and welcome They celebrate you for being you! Give a gift that will make her feel special and receive $20 off any service 832-939-9013 heartofawomanspa.com 11929 University Blvd. Suite 2K Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015 | 69

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CORELLI’S ITALIAN CAFE SUGAR CREEK COUNTRY CLUB At Sugar Creek Country Club, members and their guests enjoy an intimate membership experience in a relaxed country club setting. Boasting a challenging 27-hole golf course along with tennis, swim and fitness amenities, there is something for everyone. And now with $3 million in recent improvements, there has never been a better time to join. Treat your loved one with a gift of membership at Sugar Creek Country Club. For information or to schedule a tour: 281-494-9131 thesugarcreek.com 420 Sugar Creek Boulevard

Corelli’s Italian Café is known for fresh Italian cooking (they don’t even own a freezer!) and their signature dishes such as Corelli’s Lasagna, Chicken Rolatine, Veal Specials, authentic pastas and pizzas. The dessert pizza even comes with a money-back guarantee. Dine in or outside on the patio, open 7 days a week with great lunch and dinner specials. Corporate and personal catering available. And Corelli’s is always BYOB! 281-491-8900 Corellis.com 3229 Hwy 6 South at Williams Trace, Sugar Land

THE VINTAGE PEARL The Vintage Pearl creates custom hand-stamped jewelry and ornaments with any names, initials, dates or words of inspiration that make the perfect Christmas gift! Enjoy 15% off your purchase! (Expires 12.31.15. Cannot be combined.) 281-325-0169 thevintagepearl.com Sugar Land Town Square, Hwy 59 & Hwy 6

SERVICEMASTER SOUTHWEST GIVE A GIFT OF TIME. A ServiceMaster SouthWest gift certificate for cleaning services makes the perfect gift for just about anyone. This gift of free time is so much more than just a present. It is a thoughtful gift that says “we deserve a choreless weekend, time to spend together and just have fun.” 281-242-5777 or 713-461-1442 servicemastersouthwest.com

70 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

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NOTHING BUNDT CAKES Their cakes are perfect for the holidays — whether a decorated cake for a sweet finish to a family gathering, a personally portioned bundtlet for clients or coworkers, or bite-sized bundtinis for school parties, they have you covered. And with a wide variety of flavors available, they are sure to hit anyone’s sweet tooth! Trust them, when you show up with a treat this yummy, they guarantee your cake won’t be ‘round for long! 1531 Hwy 6, #125, Sugar Land 281- 491-2253 Facebook.com/NothingBundtCakes

ROCK2ROYAL GOLD CONNECTION JEWELERS Come to the Holiday Open House – December 2nd and 3rd from 10AM to 8PM and find a meaningful piece of jewelry that she never wants to take off. You are sure to find the perfect gift and a great time to take advantage of the storewide savings. Gold Connection is a full service, family owned store known for their custom designs and a wide selection of beautiful diamonds, colored stones, gold and silver jewelry, and watches. 281-344-9900 goldconnection.net 206 E. Hwy 90A, Richmond

New to Fort Bend, Rock2Royal is a family-owned Gallerialike store carrying women's, plus size, and tweens clothing. Their flip flops are embellished with Swarovski crystals that can be custom-made as well as rain boots for women and children. They also carry jewelry, handbags, evening clutches, and various gifts for the home. Upcoming trunk shows will feature Roma Boots and Hats, Rock'N Karma Clothing (sizes 0-20), Caroline Rocha cuffs and handcrafted evening bags by Jeffrey Levinson as seen on the Red Carpets. Follow on Facebook and the website. Opening in November for the holiday season. Rock2Royal.com 8800 Hwy 6, Suite 140, Missouri City Sienna Village Shopping Center

SAKOWITZ FURS TREASURE HUNTERS GALLERY Treasure Hunters, located in downtown Richmond, has all of your holiday wishes in one store. This year, they are featuring the Lil’ Reindeer and Santa Key. You will smile and laugh as you help Santa find his way to your house on Christmas Eve. So, bring it home, hang it onto the door knob or sit it by the door to bring you presents and much more. Merry Christmas and thanks from your friends at Treasure Hunters. They are your one-stop shop. Monday-Saturday 10-5:30. “Unique items found and souled.”

The hottest fashion trend this winter is the fur vest. It is warm and fuzzy fun that will spice up any outfit. Perfect for Texas weather, a vest will go with everything in the closet. Dress it down with Jeans and boots or Dress it up with a suit. You can go sleek with a black sheared mink vest or fluff it up with a fox. Sakowitz Furs has a huge selection at great prices. 713-622-7947 Sakowitzfurs.net 5026 Westheimer, Houston

281-239-0043 304 Morton St., Richmond Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015 | 71

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ç By Lori Verderame

Collecting Advent Calendars ‘Tis the season for the countdown to Christmas

rom the Latin term adventus, Advent means “the arrival.” For centuries, Advent has been a time of spiritual reflection for Christians in anticipation of the birth of Jesus Christ. It is believed that the period of Advent has been observed since about the fourth century A.D. In the early days of observing Advent, the timeframe lasted from the feast day of Saint Martin on Nov. 11 until Christmas Day on Dec. 25. Similar to the springtime season of Lent, Advent once included a six-week-long fast for believers; however, that has since been discontinued. By the sixth century, Advent no longer had a fasting ritual, and the season was reduced to only four weeks. Today, the season of Advent is a time of devotional prayer and anticipation of Christmas. Like many holiday collectibles, objects relating to Advent, such as wreaths and candles mark the days leading up to Christmas. Advent wreaths, a circle of evergreens symbolizing eternal life, are widely used. The four red candles represent the four Sundays of the Advent period, and a fifth white candle in the wreath’s center is called the Christ candle. The Christ candle is the last one to be lit on Christmas Day. Quite possibly the most recognized tradition is the popular Advent calendar. For many collectors, the chronological countdown to Christmas Day comes in the

Advent calendar as a freestanding house.

form of an Advent calendar of antique or vintage paper, lithography, felt, painting on canvas, or mixed media. The calendar is popular with children, many of whom spend the greater part of December patiently awaiting the arrival of Santa Claus and counting down the days by opening doors of an Advent calendar. According to legend, the first known Advent calendar was handmade in 1851. By the 1880s, the Germanic tradition of the Advent calendar began to spread across Europe to North America. Typically made of printed images on paper or cardboard, Advent calendars boast 24 small numbered doors to be opened daily in anticipation of Christmas. Snow covered houses, holiday scenes and winter wonder-

72 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

lands were common imagery used as the backdrop for the miniature doors. Each door is opened to reveal a holiday image, a Bible passage, a piece of candy, or a small gift starting on Dec. 1 and continuing until Christmas Eve. The “father” of the modern Advent calendar was a German printer named Gerhard Lang, who produced small colorful, religious images on paper and cardboard from his Munich printing office. Each image corresponded to 24 days in December up to Christmas Eve. Circa 1908, Lang produced the first Advent calendar with cardboard doors that opened to reveal an image. Throughout much of the early 20th century, Advent calendars were exchanged as gifts around Thanksgiving in

anticipation of Christmas. When it comes to value of Advent calendars, the characteristics you should look for are its condition (good, with no rips, tears or stains), design (intricate patterns or images of a winter scene or holiday events in bright colors), and the printmakers (famous ones are Lang, Sankt Johannis and others). Advent calendars have evolved from lithograph printed images on cardboard to free-standing dollhousestyle collectible calendars with hinged doors to hide small gifts, money or candy. Some of these contemporary holiday collectibles are made of pressed board, masonite and even wood. Expect to pay $50 to $500 for some of the traditional paper Advent calendars and several thousand dollars for handcrafted ones. Happy holidays! l

Dr. Lori Celebrity Ph.D. antiques appraiser, Dr. Lori hosts antiques appraisal events worldwide. Dr. Lori is the star appraiser on Discovery channel’s Auction Kings. Visit www.DrLoriV.com, www.Facebook.com/DoctorLori, Lori Verderame on Google+ or call (888) 431-1010.

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A variety of accessories and collections from around the house – old wine jugs, vintage candlesticks, religious statues – were embellished with holiday décor to ornament the formal dining room.

74 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

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Holiday décor celebrates the reason for the season Text by: Cheryl Alexander Photography by: J Pamela Photography Holiday Design by: Teena Caldwell and Flora Chakra, Twenty-Two Fifty Interiors Floral Design by: Nora Anne’s Flower Shoppe Outdoor lighting by: Perfect Light

Time for the

CASA

Christmas Home Tour! December 11-12

or 24 years, Child Advocates of Fort Bend (CAFB) has showcased homes extravagantly decorated for the holidays in Fort Bend County’s most beautiful neighborhoods as a way of raising funds to support its programs and services, which it offers free to abused and neglected children and their families in the county. In 2014, the Christmas Home Tour raised more than $215,000 to support CAFB. With expenses at less than 6 percent, CAFB can put 94 percent of the Home Tour proceeds toward its Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) and Child Advocacy Center programs. With the help of professional decorators and florists, several homeowners decorate their homes for Christmas and open them to the public during the second weekend of December. Guests tour the homes and admire the talents of the decorators, florists and homebuilders as well as the homeowners’ personal style. Volunteer hosts greet and direct guests along a pre-arranged route through the home, and cookies and refreshments are offered at the end of the tour at many of the houses. Each year more than 2,000 guests visit the CASA Christmas Home Tour homes at their own schedule and pace. Tickets allow entrance into each home once during the two tour days, and the addresses and directions to the homes are listed on the back of the tickets in a recommended order. The CASA home featured here from last year’s tour is owned by Michael and Twana McGrath, who were approached by both Pat Somers of the CAFB board and Teena Caldwell of Twenty-Two Fifty Interiors about opening their house for the CASA tour. Since Twana regularly shops at Teena’s design shop, the collaboration to transform the home into a Christmas tour stop was fairly effortless. Teena already knew and understood the couple’s style and what they would be comfortable with in their home. Rather than haul in a sleigh-load of Christmas decorations and completely redecorate for the season, the McGraths preferred to

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THESE PAGES: The homeowner’s collection of Christmas dishes were the creative influence in the breakfast nook. Traditional Christmas red and green with fresh flowers serve as the centerpiece while fresh greenery adorns the light fixture. | Religious icons create the holiday theme in the entry and stairwell. A large Mark Roberts angel greets visitors at the base of the stairs. | Santa has landed in the backyard and makes ready to deliver the gifts. A tray on the outdoor table is accessorized with Christmas greenery, bows and ornaments. | In the formal living room a religious theme was used to incorporate the homeowner’s collection of religious pieces. A Mark Roberts Mary and Joseph was installed at the top of the tree.

keep their everyday style relatively intact and simply embellish and enhance what was already in place with a few select ornaments and adornments. For example, among the couple’s collectibles are lots of religious icons — saints, the Virgin Mary, the Holy Family — which are on display year-round. The home’s holiday theme is announced dramatically at the front entrance where the door is drenched in gold poinsettias, ornaments and fresh greenery. Sparkling crowns surround the door in a floral design and wreaths proclaim the arrival of the Holy King. A statue of a saint stands sentinel. Inside the entry, magnolia blooms steeped in gold and green garland greet guests. Angels flank the stairwell. A nativity sits serenely atop the piano, and a collection of jeweled crowns pay homage to the gifts of the Magi. The religious imagery is also used on the main Christmas tree in the living room and also in the

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Don’t Miss This Year’s Home Tour! FRIDAY December 11, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Candlelight Tour 6-9 p.m.

SATURDAY December 12, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Tickets may be purchased online at cafb.org until Dec. 8 (online purchases will be mailed to you) or at select Fort Bend County Kroger and Randalls stores. On tour days, tickets are also available at the Sweetwater Guard House on the corner of Palm Royale and Sweetwater Boulevard at the entrance to the Sweetwater neighborhood in Sugar Land. Tickets are $20 until Nov. 22 and $25 from Nov. 23 until Dec. 12. Due to scheduling conflicts, there will not be a luncheon during the tour this year.

formal dining room. A crèche rests atop the large tree, boldly declaring the reason for the season. Scattered throughout the branches are more shiny gold crowns, jewels representing the gifts of the Magi, and Mark Roberts’ ornaments that celebrate the Holy Family. Hydrangea, poinsettias, gold and burgundy ribbon and holiday greenery provide the floral flair. The dining room is impressive with a saints and angels theme. Twana’s collection provides the centerpiece and buffet adornment. “Basically we just gathered all of my saints and angels into this room and

used them as the holiday theme here by adding holiday garland and flowers,” she said. “Typically, they are used throughout my home in different places, but for Christmas time, this seemed appropriate.” The art in the dining room is a nativity scene — a 120-year-old painting the couple found at an antiques shop in Richmond. Antique wine bottle baskets from Canton and vintage candlesticks mixed in with the pine boughs and gold accents provide a perfect Old World holiday setting to any Christmas meal. The tone of the holiday décor takes a

whimsical turn in the family room, kitchen, and breakfast and game room where Santa Claus is obviously coming to town. The family room tree is decorated with the family’s Santa collection, the kids’ ornament collection, travel ornaments and photo ornaments. In the kitchen, Mark Roberts’ Christmas fairies and elves dance atop the kitchen counters and swing playfully from the lighting. A metal Christmas tree made from serving spoons is decorated with fairies. The breakfast room serves up the holidays in Christmas tablewear and stocking covers over the flatware. Roses and Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015 | 77

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THESE PAGES: The family Christmas tree in the den featured ornaments and Santas the family has collected over the years. | St. Francis, patron saint of animals and the environment, surrounded by bird statues and decor. | On the outdoor dining table, a weathered tray holds a large glass candle, Christmas greenery, bows and ornaments.

hydrangeas along with Christmas green and red berries enhance morning coffee. In the gameroom, the family’s snowman collection sets a festive stage. Red glitter bows and ribbons along with red and green burlap add to the fun and games. Candy canes burst sweetly from the treetop. Unique to this home is the trophy room, where Michael’s passion for hunting is declared with decidedly masculine flair. During the Christmas season, the theme is horns and halos. The tree stands in a water trough and its skirt is a buffalo hide. The ornaments are from natural elements and reflect Michael’s love of the outdoors. The daughters’ rooms reflect their own personal preferences. Though both are styled with a winter wonderland, subtle differ-

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THESE PAGES: The kitchen island showcased the owner’s collection of Mark Roberts fairies and elves arranged in a festive way. | In keeping with the religious icon theme throughout the home’s holiday decor, the master bedroom tree was decorated with a variety of religious symbols.

ences define each. One sports an ice queen theme in which mercury glass, icicles and silver glitter on the tree are warmed by touches of gold. The other features a snow queen theme. Her tree is flocked and decorated with white poinsettias, hydrangeas, crowns, chandeliers and sequined stars. It is skirted in burlap and snow. In the master suite, snowflakes and Santas set the holiday mood. Branches of birch, fresh white poinsettias and an explosion of evergreens were used to top the tree. Silver accents are warmed by touches of gold scattered throughout the tree branches. From the master, there is a view of the outdoor living area where a life-size Santa, bursts of bright bougainvilleas and rich red and gold foil accents extend the season’s festive spirit. Featured homes are referred through interior decorators or friends of the agency, or CAFB is contacted directly by the homeowners. To be considered, the homeowners must enjoy decorating elaborately for Christmas and be open to the public viewing their home. CAFB staff will tour the home and determine if the location and flow of the home is suitable for the Home Tour. Volunteers are also needed and welcome to serve with CAFB during the tour as more than 1,500 people are required to help with this event. For more information on volunteering at the Christmas Home Tour or perhaps hosting your home next year, contact Lisa Moore at 281-344-5108. For more information about the CASA Christmas Home Tour, visit cafb.org.

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Kitchen Design Winners Set High Standards PHOTO BY SUKI MEDENCEVIC, DESIGNER ELINA KATSIOULA-BEALL

Flair plus function shine in NKBA annual competition

3RD PLACE LARGE KITCHEN

wide range of kitchen styles garnered awards at this year’s National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) Design Competition – from Moroccan flair, elegant touches of French Provincial, a rustic farm look and feel, a cake baker’s dream, a 1940s Cape Cod appearance and more! While the winning stylings are eclectic, the kitchens all have some facets in common: increased efficiency and function, remarkable character and new and beautiful focal points for the homes. Nearly 25 inspiring winning projects were recognized at the awards ceremony held in Las Vegas prior to the opening day of the 2015 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS). Winners from across six main kitchen and bath categories and 10 specialty

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categories were recognized at the ceremony for their talent and expertise. A panel of eight experts evaluated nearly 300 entries for projects from across the U.S. and Canada. Consumers also had a say, choosing the People's Pick Winner, featured on HGTV.com. The kitchen competition categories are Small (less than 150 sq. ft.), Medium (150-350 sq. ft.) and Large (more than 350 sq. ft.). This year’s competition was sponsored by (Diamond:) Jenn-Air, (Platinum:) DuPont Surfaces, GE Monogram, and Waypoint Living Spaces; (Gold:) Delta Faucet and The Home Depot; (Silver:) HGTV, SieMatic, Wellborn Cabinet, 20-20 Technologies, RevA-Shelf and Hafele. As we have for several years, Lifestyles &

Homes once again is bringing you fresh kitchen ideas. Whether you are going to build new, remodel or just want inspiration, feast your eyes on these beautiful and innovative spaces. Watch for the NKBA Bath Design winners in our next issue. PEOPLE’S PICK and 3rd PLACE, MEDIUM KITCHEN Leslie Kalish, CID, CfYH LMK Interiors Lafayette, Calif. Co-designer: Jennifer Hobson Rustic Farm-Style Flair — A couple with a young child desired an open farm-style kitchen that accommodates everyday family living and creates an ideal space for entertaining guests. Utilizing three different

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Kitchen & Bath Remodeling cabinet finishes and a mix of feminine and masculine materials, the designer created warmth, texture and harmony in the kitchen. A large, elegant island opens up to the family room, and a rustic farm table in front of the island serves as a cozy spot for family dining and entertaining. Cabinet door panels discreetly conceal some of the built-in appliances, keeping the warmth of the cabinetry as the main focal point of the room. Low storage innovations enable the child to access the kitchen items with ease and safety. As a reclaimed 100-year-old barn wood adorns the ceiling, large white trestles add texture and beauty, while anchoring the entire space. A custom hood behind the range is the main focal point of the kitchen, and an attractive bar area makes room for casual entertaining. Glass doors, open shelving and a farm-style sink not only retain the farmhouse ambiance, but also add balance to the bar area. The designer balanced the simplicity of the rustic atmosphere with the elegance of modern style, perfectly embracing the clients’ vision for their home. 1st PLACE, LARGE KITCHEN Brigitte Fabi, CMKBD Drury Design Kitchen & Bath Studio Glen Ellyn, Ill. The Moroccan Marvel — To create a functional living space conveying a love of cooking, art and life in general, the designer drew inspiration from the homeowners’ private collection: a stunning Moroccan antique door from a trip to Marrakesh. A custom steel “I” beam was fabricated and installed to allow for an open concept in the century-old home. Interior walls within the original space were eliminated, allowing for greater traffic flow, natural light and efficiency. A banquette features a sofa and eight seats with cushions used to emphasize the Moorish textures and furniture styling. Custom veneer panels creating the banquette area was hand-stained on site and made to match the walnut cabinetry. A custom refrigerator/freezer door features glass panels with hand-etched designs. The Moorish arch around the range area

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was created using a laser cutout of the shape and covered with a dimensional vein-cut marble, and a custom walnut borders the edges. This eclectic kitchen housing many focal points and contrasting textures, serves as a functional, multifaceted space for the busy, city family!

PLANTATION FURNITURE Plantation Furniture invites everyone to their Christmas Open House on the evening of Thursday, December 3rd. Starting at 5 pm the store will be bright and merry, wreaths will be hung and the trees will be sparkling. There will be a hint of cinnamon and pine in the air, just the perfect amount to get you in the mood to decorate and celebrate! Maybe you can even taste a bit of peppermint on your tongue, part imagination and part anticipation of the jolly holiday that’s coming soon. Plantation Furniture's elves have been transforming the store for days to bring you the best decorating ideas of the season. And you may even catch that same glimpse a bit before the open house. While we are certainly trying our best to keep all the Christmas goodies contained, there’s no telling what they do when we shut off the lights and go home for the day. 281-341-7788 plantationfurniture.com 1247 FM 359, Richmond

THE DUMP America’s off-price outlet for high-end furniture, handmade mattresses and fine oriental rugs is right here in Houston. The outlet opens at 10 a.m. every Friday with an ever-changing selection of closeouts, overstocks, design samples and one-of-a-kind opportunity buys from top designers. They Dump the frills, pretense and costs of regular stores, and voila! You get high-end home furnishings at 30 to 70% off price. 281-447-2250 Thedump.com 10251 North Freeway, Houston

CASTLE FURNITURE DESIGN CENTER Castle Furniture Design Center proudly displays the finest Italian leather, marble and contemporary collections you can find in Houston. There are unique modern pieces in bedroom, dining room and living room collections. Please see store for details on financing. See for yourself the wide variety of fine furniture on display. 832-201-1000 3819 Fondren castlefdc.com

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WOOD VILLE INTERIORS Wood Ville Interiors is a unique one of a kind home décor retail store. They are direct importers of solid wood exotic furniture from India and Indonesia. Old antique doors, windows, ceiling tiles are incorporated and creatively recreated into various unique dining tables, coffee tables, one of a kind vanities, beds, entertainment units, consoles, buffets, bars, armoires, and live edge furniture. Enrich your senses by visiting their retail and warehouse location. 832-939-9786 woodvilleinteriors.com 2725-P Town Center Blvd North, Sugar Land

2nd PLACE - LARGE KITCHENS Peter Ross Salerno, CMKBD Peter Salerno, Inc. Wycoff, New Jersey Co-Designer: Julie Connors; Robert So A Touch of Elegance — In order to best cater to the client’s request for a unique, formal kitchen filled with character and personality, the designer found products from around the world to incorporate into the space. The kitchen had a four-foot hallway from the foyer to the garage on the right side, which was removed to accommodate a full refrigerator and freezer and also open up adequate space to fit two 100inch islands. The family room and the kitchen were connected by the old hallway, which, when removed, opened up the kitchen to a family room with a beautiful paneled archway that is centered with the stove, the two islands and the dramatic mirrored ceiling. The detailed rosette ceiling in the center of the room features inset antique mirrors framed in acanthus leaf moldings. The center ceiling medallion is embellished with a blue crystal chandelier. The stove wall has multiple focal points including the blue La Cornue stove, a reclaimed tin hood, two curio cabinets and a 2 ¼-inch-thick concrete counter top with a silver gray finish to match the hood. The archway leading into the family room is paneled and finished to match the cabinetry. On both sides of the arch, the designer centered two tall China cabinets with curved mullion doors. Elegant crafting and exclusive detailing enable every wall in this stunning kitchen to serve as a focal point on its own. 3rd PLACE - LARGE KITCHENS Elina Katsioula-Beall, CKD DeWitt Designer Kitchens Pasadena, Calif. Co-designer: Maria Alaverdyan The Cake Baker’s Dream — The client’s dream was to own a kitchen well-equipped

1st PLACE -MEDIUM KITCHENS Amy Yin Amy Yin Interiors, LLC Short Hills, New Jersey Co-designer: Emily O’Keefe, CKD, CBD; Chris Papaleo, AIA, LEED AP, NCARB Heart of the Home — Inspired by the historic wooden window screens from the client’s ancestral home, the design of the kitchen cabinetry’s fretwork came into place. This design motif is repeated on a different scale in the kitchen’s marble backsplash, and its curves are echoed in the silhouette of the glass pendant lighting. To achieve an inviting, updated style, gleaming white counters were balanced with gradations of warm gray cabinetry, walls, and trim. Black granite insets in the backsplash complement the black gloss enamel range, which serves as the anchor of the room. Mixed metals, mirrored accents and the mother-of-pearl insets on the backsplash provide jewellike surprises throughout the kitchen. The huge island with a seamless counter holds adequate room for family and

BEST KITCHEN WINNER

1ST PLACE LARGE KITCHEN

PHOTO BY PETER RYMWID ARCHITECTURAL PHOTOGRAPHY, DESIGNER PETER ROSS SALERNO

for painting, sculpting, baking and decorating cakes, opening up to the views outside. This led to the design of an all-white, airy kitchen with playful splashes of fuchsia and green and subtleties evoking the client’s favorite “Alice in Wonderland” theme. The former kitchen is now a spacious eating area with an expanding glass table that often doubles as an additional cakedecorating work station. In the former butler’s pantry spot now sits a triangular kitchen featuring two peninsulas stemming out of the oven and refrigeration wall. The prep and cook peninsula holds the range top and prep sink facing the folding French doors that open the living space to the garden and the views outside. The bake and decorate peninsula next to the ovens uses the front counter space to mix the dough and land the baking pans, while the backside houses all cake decorating supplies. The back wall of the kitchen triangle houses the refrigerator, double ovens, warming drawer and microwave, while a deeper counter in-between features a roll-up backsplash which conceals a roll-out commercial espresso maker. White cabinetry and counters keep the look light supported by a few splashes of color. A Fuchsia baker’s hutch with open shelving displays a bake ware collection and a focal wall is lined with recycled oval fuchsia glass tile. This pristine kitchen is truly a baker’s dream that takes the client’s hobby to the next level!

PHOTO BY ERIC HAUSMAN PHOTOGRAPHY, DESIGNER BRIGITTE FABI

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2ND PLACE LARGE KITCHEN

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HALL LIGHTING AND DESIGN Hall Lighting and Design’s 8th Annual Christmas Spectacular features an Enchanted Forest of great Christmas decorating ideas. Fully decorated trees, table top displays, ornaments, Santas, angels, one-of-a-kinds, nativity scenes, reindeer, a host of beautiful ideas. Do all your holiday shopping in one gorgeous showroom! 361-578-6221 hallelectric.com

STAR FURNITURE Star’s enduring commitment to style and quality at an affordable price is why generations of Texans trust Star to furnish their homes. Having the largest selection of fashionable home furnishings in the state isn't the only reason folks shop here! The talented staff of design experts can help you transform an ordinary room into a space you’ll love. Whether it’s a custom sofa, a fine rug, or an entire home makeover, their complimentary in-store design service will offer you an affordable solution for your next decorating project. starfurniture.com Sugar Land/Fort Bend: 19660 Hwy 59 S. 281-342-7827 Katy/W. Houston: 16666 Barker Springs Rd. 281-492-5494

THORNWOOD GALLERY, LLC Nestled in the heart of Houston just one block West of Kirby Drive between Richmond and Alabama, Thornwood Gallery has earned a reputation of providing high quality artwork by international, national and local artists for homes and businesses. Their extensive inventory represents a wide variety of styles from abstract to impressionism and realism. 2643 Colquitt St.,Houston 713-528-4278 thornwoodgallery.com

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THE DESIGN FIRM For over 30 years, The Design Firm has been Houston's most acclaimed interior design agency. Synonymous with luxury and sophistication, their philosophy has propelled them to be the watchword of interior design, not only in Houston, but across the U.S. Find them on Facebook, Twitter, and Houzz. 281-494-4433 13013 Southwest Freeway thedesignfirm.com

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This family owned business was established in 1982 and offers over 20,000 ready-made picture frames. They also have an inventory of over 1,000 styles of custom frame mouldings up to 40% off. A professional staff assists customers in appropriate custom framing design selections for all types of art work, photos, diplomas, prints, and sports items. Hundreds of original oil paintings and framed mirrors are displayed in the 20,000-square-foot warehouse showroom, at very competitive pricing. Ph: 713-974-6000 Fax: 713-974-6006 warehouseframes.com sales@warehouseframes.com 3815 Fondren Rd., Houston

CRU HOME An historic 100+-year-old home turned lovely little design shop, Cru Home offers everything from one-of-a-kind gifts to interior design services and workshops. You are invited to pay them a visit, shop and stay awhile. Their specialties include in-store and on-site interior consultations and design services, home, holiday and garden workshops, party decorating, home staging, personal shopping and gifting services. 281-969-7605 cruhome.com 6726 Highway 6, Missouri City

PHOTO BY JOHN HAYES, DESIGNER LESLIE KALISH

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THE PEOPLE’S PICK

3RD PLACE MEDIUM KITCHEN

friends to dine or help with meal preparations and also engage in hobbies. Furthermore, carefully planned base cabinet storage makes access to everyday items easy for even the family’s 4-year-old. With upgraded luxury appliances, extensive counter space and seating for four at the island, this gourmet kitchen offers a peaceful, modern and luminous setting to spend that quality time with loved ones. 2nd PLACE -MEDIUM KITCHENS Claire J. Reimann, AKBD Jason Good Custom Cabinets Inc. Victoria, British Columbia Modernism Revived — A marriage between the lush kitchen space and the spectacular views outside, this design embraces simple white materials with wood accents echoing the natural surroundings. Removing all existing partition walls to achieve one large open living area, the designer deployed durable countertops and a simple cabinet style for a modern look. Since the large island required a material without a seam, the designer incorporated a neolith porcelain countertop which is 100 percent recyclable and composed of all natural materials. American Walnut with a flat sliced grain match was specified for the eating bar on the island as

well as some of the storage areas. Lining up perfectly with the center of the range hood fan are three central skylights that bring ample natural light to the island, minimizing the need for electricity during daytime. Stainless steel countertop with a seamless welded sink provides an exceptionally durable and hygienic surface, and an oversized industrial faucet at the main sink makes a style statement while facilitating water efficiency. Bright and spacious, catering to modern conveniences, this magnificent kitchen complements the essence of the sprawling beauty outside. 1st PLACE - SMALL KITCHENS Corey S. Klassen, CKD, CBD Corey Klassen Interior Design Vancouver, B.C. A Timeless Transition — Designed to appeal to a single client who works from home and loves to entertain, this small kitchen features a clean, contemporary and functional space for socializing, dinner parties and day-to-day use. The vertical space borrowed from the dining area makes room for a wall-oven, and adding more storage space addressed the functional needs of this kitchen. The cleanup center has increased capacity, containing a single dish drawer to the right of the sink and a functional trash bin to the left. The cooking center is at Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015 | 87

PHOTO BY JOSHUA LAWRENCE PHOTOGRAPHY, DESIGNER CLAIRE J. REIMANN

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WINNER GREEN DESIGN

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PHOTO BY JASON KARMAN, DESIGNER COREY S. KLASSEN

PHOTO BY JAMES NETZ PHOTOGRAPHY LLC, DESIGNER ADRIENNE DORIG LELAND

2ND PLACE MEDIUM KITCHEN

the heart of the kitchen with an induction cooktop and pop-out hood-vent above. Recessed lighting was added throughout the space and task areas were enhanced with under cabinet lights. Custom color walls and tall cabinets in white match all the finishes and the custom bench seat. Accented by natural walnut open shelves and contrasted by the newly matched parquet floor, wood tones repeat the natural theme with the customized basket weave marble tile in the backsplash. Earthy engineered quartz creates a strong, linear working surface. The kitchen adorns a timeless look for the future of the residential investment, truly reflecting the client’s sensibilities to light, color and textures.

1ST PLACE SMALL KITCHEN

WINNER - GREEN DESIGN Adrienne Dorig Leland, CKD Dorig Designs LLC Eau Claire, Wis. Retro Farmhouse Aesthetics — It was only natural for this environment-conscious family to reduce, reuse and recycle with their remodeling project. The homeowner’s original kitchen that lacked storage, counter space and a dishwasher was reorganized by moving the refrigerator closer to the cooktop and sink, clearly defining a work zone and separating it from the path of travel from the foyer to the family room. Shifting the living room doorway made

3RD PLACE LARGE KITCHEN

PHOTO BY SUKI MEDENCEVIC, DESIGNER ELINA KATSIOULA-BEALL

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room to move the fridge to the same wall as the cooktop and also provided a better layout for the island. A fossil art from Green River Stone was placed above the sink as a focal point. Energy consumption was reduced by switching from fluorescent tracks to LED can lights and undercabinet lighting. The Energy Star rated Big Chill fridge and Kitchen Aid dishwasher further reduce energy consumption. Since all of the farmhouse’s electricity is generated from solar panels on-site, the switch from a gas stove to an induction cooktop was a sensible one. Many parts of the kitchen were reclaimed and repurposed – the cabinetry was built by a local cabinet shop from old wormy chestnut shelves rescued from a warehouse. The stained glass found at a local salvage shop was originally from an Arts and Crafts home. The booth seats were made from old pews and the table from old silo wood. Since composting was part of the clients’ lifestyle, the designer built a pullout made to fit their compost bin. The clients now enjoy a more efficient kitchen that stands in harmony with the retro farmhouse aesthetic. The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) is the nonprofit trade association that owns the KBIS®. With nearly 14,000 member companies representing more than 60,000 individuals, the NKBA has educated and led the kitchen and bath industry since its founding in 1963. The mission of the NKBA is to enhance member success and excellence, promote professionalism and ethical business practices, and provide leadership and direction for the kitchen and bath industry worldwide. For more information, visit NKBA.org or call 1-800-THE-NKBA (843-6522). l

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Spruce Up Your Exterior Doors Care for this important focal point before your holiday guests arrive

efore guests arrive for the December holidays, homeowners should take stock of their home exterior doors to renew and beautify them to assure years of long-lasting beauty and service. “Entry doors are like other key features of the home because they require routine maintenance,” says Chris Maulucci, a technical sales manager with Therma-Tru Corp. “Owners of fiberglass doors enjoy reduced yearly maintenance efforts, but there is still a checklist of items to inspect and adjust periodically on any door.” To help homeowners in knowing what to look for to maintain their entry doors, Therma-Tru has created this checklist: • Clean the exterior and interior of the door with a mild soap and water solution. • Inspect the weatherstrip and door bottom sweep for wear, and replace as needed.

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• Inspect the door’s corner sill pads for wear, and replace as needed. • Check and maintain all the door's sealants. Inspect the finish of the door and frame. • Reapply paint (for a painted door) or topcoat (for a stained door) as needed, which usually depends on the amount of outdoor exposure the door receives. • If needed, adjust the sill cap on the door. • Check and adjust the adjustable strike plate for the door as needed so that the weatherstrip is properly compressed when closed. • Check the security of the door’s hardware and tighten screws as needed to prevent looseness. • Seal the sill cap (the hardwood cap only) with a solvent based sealer, like linseed oil or an oil-based stain.

• Lubricate door hinges as needed. Just as important as the checklist of “what to do” for yearly door maintenance is the list of items that homeowners should not do. Therma-Tru offers this list of “don’ts” related to door maintenance: • Don’t leave the door unfinished. Doors must be finished (either painted or stained). • Don’t paint over a stained woodgrain door without using a compatible primer first. • Don’t use lacquer-based paints on doors. • Don’t use harsh chemicals to clean doors. A mild soap and water solution is all that's needed. • Don’t use a pressure washer on door exteriors to clean them. • Don’t clean the brick around the door with muriatic acid as it will mar the finish if any splashes onto the door.

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Live Outdoors this

• Don’t use caulk to fill in worn weatherstrip. Instead, replace the weatherstrip. • Don’t adjust the sill cap too tightly. This can cause the door's bottom sweep to bind.

Holiday Season!

• Don’t change out a doorlite (the glass insert in the door) without using an adjustable torque screw gun placed on the proper setting for the size of the doorlite. • Don’t drill holes or screws into the door to hang wreaths or holiday decorations. What to Look for in a New Door “If, while performing your annual inspection, it becomes apparent that you’re in the market for a new door, consider one made of fiberglass,” says Maulucci. “A solid fiberglass door is up to four times more energy efficient than a solid wood door, plus you get the benefits that fiberglass has to offer, including resistance to rot, rust, dents and weather.” Another factor to consider is what’s on the inside of your door. The dense polyurethane foam used in the core of Therma-Tru fiberglass doors helps the doors achieve high thermal performance values. According to Maulucci, homeowners choosing to add decorative glass to their Therma-Tru fiberglass doors can also count on energy-efficient features. The company's triple-pane construction of most doorlites and sidelites creates both a strong thermal and acoustical barrier. And, factory-coated Low-E glass, available as an option for clear glass, also delivers exceptional energy efficiency. In cold weather, the Low-E glass helps reduce the loss of heat by reflecting the heat back inside the home. In warm weather, Low-E glass reflects the sun's rays off of the glass, helping keep the interior of the home cool. Benefits of Fiberglass Doors According to the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA), fiberglass products are known for their reliability, customization aspects for style design, and energy efficiency. Fiberglass doors have an abundance of features outlined by AAMA at aamanet.org; search for fiberglass product reliability. Constructed as a complete system of components, ThermaTru fiberglass doors are designed and engineered to work together for lasting performance, security and energy efficiency. Multipoint locking systems that engage a series of locks at several places on the frame, plus the adjustable security strike plate that can withstand up to three times the force of a standard strike plate, are key factors in creating a dependable Therma-Tru entry door system. Therma-Tru fiberglass doors are also available with the exclusive Tru-Defense door system. This system integrates specific components engineered and tested to deliver outstanding protection in all kinds of weather conditions. l

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WATERSIDE POOLSCAPES With over 20 years of pool building experience, the Waterside Poolscapes team will work with you to design the perfect custom pool and spa. They can design and build for you a complete backyard experience that includes outdoor kitchens, water features, fire pits, patio covers and more. Call today for a FREE consultation. 281-690-4810 Watersidepoolscapes.com info@watersideps.com

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EZ Floors has the flooring and countertops to finish any remodeling project. Luxurious carpet in the bedroom. Elegant hardwood flooring in the living and dining rooms. And timeless tile in the kitchen, bath and entry. They highly value your complete satisfaction with their products and service. Their philosophy is very simple: if you are pleased with your shopping experience, they are confident you will share it with others and continue to use EZ Floors for all your floor covering needs. ezfloorsonline.com 20680 Westheimer Parkway, #150 281-647-0777 1557 W. Sam Houston Pkwy. N, #110 713-465-6741 See website for other locations.

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By Judy Latta ost of us obsess over our complexions, the most visible part of our bodies, and would never forget to pamper our faces with meticulously selected cleansers, exfoliators, sunscreens, toners and moisturizers. Why, then, do so many of us fail to devote the same attention to our necks and chests, also a sensitive and highly visible area of the body. Premature signs of aging can appear on the neck and chest due to care and lifestyle issues such as neglect, sun damage, harsh cleansers, excessive dead skin cells, dehydration, poor diet, smoking, repetitive motions and lack of exercise, as well as from uncontrollable factors such as heredity, gravity, environmental conditions and stress. According to the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS), caring for your neck area is one of the best ways to defy your age because it is a body part where signs of againg can develp quickly. “The skin there is thin and contains less supportive collagen compared to your face,” notes the Academy.

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94 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

Common Signs of Aging on the Neck and Chest Many different structural changes can occur in the neck and chest area as we age, such as the formation of fatty deposits under the chin, known as double chin; excess fat and skin droop in the lower face, known as jowls; loose skin; deep wrinkles across the neck; deep wrinkles down the chest, particularly in the cleavage area; and the protrusion of the vertical cords in our necks. The neck and chest can also undergo color and tone changes as we age, such as redness, dilated blood vessels, rough skin and brown spots from sun damage. Additionally, according to the AAFPRS, current technology is also taking a toll on our neck and lower face in the form of a relatively new condition dubbed “tech neck.” Plastic surgeons and dermatologists have noted that patients are experiencing new wrinkles and sagging jowls specifically related to the repetitive motion of looking down at their smartphones. “With such thin skin on the neck, looking down at your phone constantly can cause

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Prevention So how do you prevent premature aging under the collar? A good rule of thumb is that whatever skincare regimen you use for your face, you should also use for your neck and chest. The first step should always be a mild cleanser to remove dirt, grime and toxins, and to give you a fresh slate to work with. Most people use a specialized, mild cleanser for their faces, but use their regular body soap on their sensitive necks and chests. Next, a good moisturizer and occasional exfoliation will help the skin on your neck and chest to stay healthier, softer, firmer and clearer. Finally, as it is with your face, it is vitally important that you protect the skin on your neck and chest from the sun and elements. Wearing a broad spectrum sunscreen that protects you from UVA and UVB rays is the best method for preventing premature aging of the face, neck and chest. If you can, stay out of the sun, particularly during midday, or if you have to go into the sun during peak times, cover your neck and chest areas to protect them when possible.

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96 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

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Treatments While healthy living, good skin care and prevention from overexposure to the sun are the best methods of protecting the skin on our neck and chest areas, most of us have not been as vigilant over the course of our lives as we should have been and are now facing the long-term effects of damaged skin. Fortunately, modern science has provided us with a range of options, both surgical and nonsurgical, as well as prescription and non-prescription, for treating the aesthetic effects of aging. The following are some common treatments often recommended by dermatologists and/or cosmetic surgeons for necks and chests that are in need of refreshing. Surgical Treatments: Necklifts, liposuction, chin augmentation, procedures to tighten neck muscles, and the removal of excess skin are all surgical solutions available to rejuvenate the aesthetics of the neck area. The most complete and long-lasting treatment is a lower rhytidectomy, also known as a neck lift, a surgical procedure that lifts and tightens the jawline and neck. It addresses problems such as double chin, jowls, loose neck skin, and deep wrinkles. According to the AAFPRS, “Upper Neck lifts and neck tightening procedures are becoming increasingly popular for women to get rid of telltale ‘turkey waddle’ ” (loose skin under the chin). Laser skin resurfacing: Through laser resurfacing, skin imperfections such as wrinkles and age spots on the neck and chest are vaporized using pulsating beams of light. The laser beam removes the outer later of damaged skin, the epidermis, and stimulates the underlying layers to promote the growth of healthy skin cells and collagen fibers.

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Caring for your neck is one of the best ways to defy your age. Injections: Technically known as botulinum toxin, botox is injected into particular areas of the neck and chest to paralyze wrinkle-producing muscles and nerves. The effects generally last about three months and then skin reverts to its previous form, requiring regular injections to maintain the benefits. Dermal fillers, or “wrinkle fillers” as they are often known, are substances that are injected into creases in the skin to plumpup the skin’s surface to reduce wrinkles. Fillers can be human fat from your own body, collagen or other natural or synthetic substances. Most dermal fillers work only temporarily, thus regular injections may be needed to maintain the benefits. Microdermabrasion: This method of skin refinishing exfoliates, or scrapes away, the top damaged layers of skin on the chest. Peels: Also called derma peeling, this is a solution that is applied to your chest to remove the damaged layer of skin. Chemicals

and other solutions are used in different combinations and dosages to create light, medium or deep treatments depending upon your needs. Prescription treatments: Two common topical cream treatments for damaged skin that are available only with a prescrip-

tion are Hydroquinone and Tretinoin. Hydroquinone is used to fade over-pigmented skin and improve clarity. Tretinoin increases collagen production to reduce wrinkles and discoloration. Non-prescription treatments: A wide range of over-the-counter remedies are available for treating the skin on the neck and chest. Some common ones are Retinol for stimulating the generation of new skin cells, Alpha Hydroxin Acid for removing dead skin cells and Alpha-Arbutin for skin lightening. Natural remedies: Some homeopathic remedies such as soy and coconut oil can help soften and smooth skin, and some herbs such as red clover are believed to work as cleansing agents for detoxifying the skin after sun exposure. For information on these and other possible solutions to improve signs of aging on your neck and chest, make an appointment with your dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon. l

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Diet and Physical Activity What’s the cancer connection?

ow much do daily habits like diet and exercise affect your risk for cancer? Much more than you might think. Research has shown that poor diet and not being active are 2 key factors that can increase a person’s cancer risk. The good news is that you do something about this. Besides quitting smoking, some of the most important things you can do to help reduce your cancer risk are: • Get to and stay at a healthy weight throughout life. • Be physically active on a regular basis. • Make healthy food choices with a focus on plant-based foods. The evidence for this is strong: Each year, about 589,430 Americans die of cancer; around one-third of these deaths are linked to poor diet, physical inactivity, and carrying too much weight. CONTROL YOUR WEIGHT Getting to and staying at a healthy weight is important to reduce the risk of cancer and other chronic diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes. Being overweight or obese increases the risk of several cancers, including those of the breast (in women past menopause), colon and rectum, endometrium (the lining of the uterus), esophagus, pancreas, and kidney, among others. Being overweight can increase cancer risk in many ways. One of the main ways is that excess weight causes the body to produce and circulate more estrogen and insulin, hormones that can stimulate cancer growth. WHAT’S A HEALTHY WEIGHT? One of the best ways to get an idea if you are at a healthy weight is to check your Body Mass Index (BMI), a score based on the relationship between your height and weight. Use our easy online BMI calculator to find out your score. To reduce cancer risk, most people need to keep their BMIs below 25. Ask your doctor what your BMI number means and what

98 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

action (if any) you should take. If you are trying to control your weight, a good first step is to watch portion sizes, especially of foods high in calories, fat, and added sugars. Also try to limit your intake of highcalorie foods and drinks. Try writing down what and how much you eat and drink for a week, then see where you can cut down on portion sizes, cut back on some not-so-

Let’s ask for healthier food choices at our workplaces and schools. For every junk food item in the vending machine, ask for a healthy option, too. healthy foods and drinks, or both! For those who are overweight or obese, losing even a small amount of weight has health benefits and is a good place to start. BE MORE ACTIVE Watching how much you eat will help you control your weight. The other key is to be

more physically active. Being active helps reduce your cancer risk by helping with weight control. It can also help improve your hormone levels and the way your immune system works. More good news – physical activity helps you reduce your risk of heart disease and diabetes, too! So grab your athletic shoes and head out the door! The latest recommendations for adults call for at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity each week, or an equivalent combination, preferably spread throughout the week. This is over and above usual daily activities like using the stairs instead of the elevator at your office or doing housework. For kids, the recommendation is at least 60 minutes of moderate or vigorous intensity activity each day, with vigorous intensity activity occurring at least 3 days each week. Moderate activities are those that make you breathe as hard as you would during a brisk walk. This includes things like walking, biking, even housework and gardening. Vigorous activities make you use large muscle groups and make your heart beat faster, make you breathe faster and deeper, and also make you sweat. It’s also important to limit sedentary behavior such as sitting, lying down, watching television, or other forms of screen-based entertainment. Being more physically active than usual, no matter what your level of activity, can have many health benefits. EAT HEALTHY FOODS Eating well is an important part of improving your health and reducing your cancer risk. Take a good hard look at what you typically eat each day and try these tips to build a healthy diet plan for yourself and your family: • Choose foods and drinks in amounts that help you get to and maintain a healthy weight. • Read food labels to become more aware of portion sizes and calories. Be aware that “low-fat” or “non-fat” does not

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necessarily mean “low-calorie.” • Eat smaller portions when eating high-calorie foods. • Choose vegetables, whole fruit, legumes such as peas and beans, and other lowcalorie foods instead of calorie-dense foods such as French fries, potato and other chips, ice cream, donuts, and other sweets. • Limit your intake of sugar-sweetened beverages such as soft drinks, sports drinks, and fruit-flavored drinks. • When you eat away from home, be especially mindful to choose food low in calories, fat, and added sugar, and avoid eating large portion sizes. • Limit how much processed meat and red meat you eat. • Limit your intake of processed meats such as bacon, sausage, lunch meats, and hot dogs. • Choose fish, poultry, or beans instead of red meat (beef, pork, and lamb). • If you eat red meat, choose lean cuts and eat smaller portions. Prepare meat, poultry, and fish by baking, broiling, or poaching rather than by frying or charbroiling. Eat at least 2½ cups of vegetables and fruits each day. • Include vegetables and fruits at every meal and snack. • Eat a variety of vegetables and fruits each day. • Emphasize whole fruits and vegetables; choose 100% juice if you drink vegetable or fruit juices. • Limit your use of creamy sauces, dressings, and dips with fruits and vegetables. Choose whole grains instead of refined grain products. • Choose whole-grain breads, pasta, and cereals (such as barley and oats) instead of breads, cereals, and pasta made from refined grains, and brown rice instead of white rice. • Limit your intake of refined carbohydrate foods, including pastries, candy, sugar-sweetened breakfast cereals, and other high-sugar foods.

LIMIT ALCHOL INTAKE IF YOU DRINK People who drink alcohol should limit their intake to no more than 2 drinks per day for men and 1 drink per day for women. The recommended limit is lower for women because of their smaller body size and slower breakdown of alcohol. A drink of alcohol is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1½ ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits (hard liquor). In terms of cancer risk, it is the amount of alcohol, not the type of alcoholic drink that is important. These daily limits do not mean it’s safe to drink larger amounts on fewer days of the week, since this can lead to health, social, and other problems. REDUCING CANCER RISK IN THE COMMUNITY Adopting a healthier lifestyle is easier for people who live, work, play, or go to school in an environment that supports healthy behaviors. Working together, communities

can create the type of environment where healthy choices are easy to make. We all can be part of these changes: Let’s ask for healthier food choices at our workplaces and schools. For every junk food item in the vending machine, ask for a healthy option, too. Support restaurants that help you to eat well by offering options like smaller portions, lower-calorie items, and whole-grain products. And let’s help make our communities safer and more appealing places to walk, bike, and be active. THE BOTTOM LINE It has been estimated that as much as onethird of all cancer deaths in the U.S. are related to diet and activity factors. Let’s challenge ourselves to lose some extra pounds, increase our physical activity, make healthy food choices, limit alcohol, and look for ways to make our communities healthier places to live, work, and play. l Courtesy of The American Cancer Society

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ASSISTED LIVING Atria Assisted Living 1401 Soldiers Field Drive Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.494.4200

CARDIOLOGY Methodist Diagnostic Cardiology of Houston, P.A. 16651 Southwest Frwy., #400 Sugar Land, TX 77479 713.776.9500

COMPOUNDING PHARMACY Compounding Shop 11851-A Wilcrest Dr. Houston, TX 77031 281.495.2230 mycompoundingshop.com

DENTISTRY Anderson Dental Group 226 Fluor Daniel Drive 281.242.2040 6911 Highway 6 S., #202 281.498.0106 C & C Dental Timothy Cashion, D.D.S. and Teresa Cody, D.D.S. 17003 Southwest Frwy., Ste 100 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.815.4188 cashionandcodyonline.com Classic Dental Quynh Nguyen, DDS 5211 Highway 6 Missouri City, TX 77459 281-499-4467 A. Ebrahimian, D.D.S. Premier Dental 5814 New Territory Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.277.8787 PremierDentalDrE.com Jeffrey E. Fey, D.D.S. Cinco Ranch Dental 1150 S. Mason Rd #101 Katy, TX 77450 281.693.6300 Bret Davis, D.M.D. Rick L. Kline, D.D.S. 4665 Sweetwater Blvd., #450 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.265.7645 smiletexas.com

Marlo Griesser, D.D.S. 11577 Highway 6 Sugar Land, TX 77498 281.313.5700 drgriesser.com Minhly D. Nguyen, D.D.S. Five Star Dentists 12125 Highway 6, Ste. D Fresno, TX 77545 281.431.8909 5stardentists.com Pisklak Orthodontics Carrie Pisklak, DDS, MS 6218 Hwy 6, Suite C Missouri City TX 77459 281-403-5599 pisklakorthodontics.com Keith Von Boeckmann, D.D.S. 7435 South Hwy. 6, Ste. A Missouri City, TX 77459 281.499.7645 radiantsmilesoftexas.com

DENTISTRY - PEDIATRIC James R. Stamper, D.D.S. 12000 Wilcrest, Ste. 207 Houston, TX 77031 281.495.8828 stamperkids.com Larry Caldwell, D.D.S. Dentistry for Children 15200 Southwest Frwy. #320 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.565.5437

DERMATOLOGY Pamela M. Carr, M.D., P.A. Board Certified Dermatologist 1111 Highway 6, Ste. 160 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.494.0034 carrderm.com Iris S. Polinger, M.D., Ph.D., P.A. Board Certified Dermatologist The Offices at Lake Pointe 1415 Hwy. 6 South Building C-400 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.491.9278 dririspolinger.com

100 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

David W. Powell, M.D. Board Certified Dermatologist 1327 Lake Pointe Pkwy., Ste.416 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.494.0050 powelldermatology.com

INTERNAL MEDICINE & PULMONARY DISEASES Dr. Benjamin Interiano, M.D F.A.C.P., F.C.C.P 7737 Southwest Frwy. #640 Houston, TX 77074 713.988.1699

EAR, NOSE & THROAT James C. Martin Jr., M.D., P.A. Houston Ear, Nose & Throat Clinic 16545 Southwest Frwy., Ste.100 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.649.7200

FAMILY PRACTICE Deirdre McMullen, M.D. 3281 Rocky Creek Dr. Ste. 500 Missouri City, TX 77459 281.206.0068 Drmcmullenclinic.com

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MEDICAL SUPPLIES Alief Medical Sales 11845 Wilcrest (Murphy @ S.W. Frwy.) Houston, TX 77031 281.530.3232

GASTROENTEROLOGY Stanley H. Stein, M.D., P.A. Fort Bend Gastroenterology 17510 W. Grand Parkway S., Ste. 350 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.762.6300 drstanleystein.com

GENERAL SURGERY Southwest Surgical Associates, L.L.P 16651 Southwest Frwy., Ste. 360 Sugar Land, TX 77479 713.772.1200 17510 W Grand Pkwy S. Ste. 490 Sugar Land, TX 77479 713.772.1200 southwestsurgical.com

OB/GYN The Woman’s Place of Sugar Land Leslie Cohan, M.D. James R. Gullet, M.D. Catherine Holste, M.D. Tracey E. Samuels, M.D. 16552 Southwest Frwy. Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.242.0767

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ONCOLOGY INFERTILITY/ REPRODUCTIVE ENDOCRINOLOGY C. James Chuong, M.D., M .P.H. Cooper Institute for Advanced Reproductive Medicine Houston: 7500 Beechnut #308 Houston, TX 77074 Sugar Land: 16651 Southwest Frwy. #200 Sugar Land, TX 77479 713.771.9771 cooperinstitutearm.com Fertility Specialists of Houston 4724 Sweetwater Blvd. Ste. 105 Sugar Land, Texas 77479 832.553.5483 After Hours: 713.512.7900

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OPTOMETRY/OPTICAL Robert Le, O.D. Sugar Land T.S.O. 13879 Southwest Frwy. Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.277.3100

ORTHODONTICS Scott Huang, D.D.S., M.S. Jane Lu, D.M.D., M.S. Scott and Jane Orthodontics 5418 Hwy. 6, Suite 215 Missouri City, TX 77459 832.539.6388 scottandjane.com

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PEDIATRIC MedCare Pediatric Therapy MedCare Pediatric Rehab Center MedCare Pediatric Centers for Counseling and Play Therapy MedCare Pediatric Nursing 12371 S. Kirkwood Rd. Stafford, TX 77477 713.995.9292 medcarepediatrics.com

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SPORTS INJURY SOLUTIONS n Minimally Invasive Arthroscopy n Evaluation & Treatment of Knee & Shoulder Conditions n Reconstruction Surgery

STEVEN E. NOLAN, M.D., F.A.A.O.S. PODIATRY S. Nicholas Desai, D.P.M., P.A. Foot Centers of Texas 16605 Southwest Frwy. Ste. 350 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.240.3338 Y. Bryan Lee, D.P.M. F.A.C.F.A.S. Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists 56 Sugar Creek Center Blvd. #250 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.242.FEET (3338) AdvancedFootDocs.com

PRIMARY CARE – INTERNAL MEDICINE Parul R. Shah, D.O. Board Certified in Internal Medicine 5201 Hwy. 6 S., Ste. 575 Missouri City, TX 77459 281.499.5808

Voted Best Orthopedic Surgeon by the Fort Bend Sun; featured in H Texas Magazine’s “Top Doc” issues in 2004, 2008 and 2009; Memorial Hermann Sugar Land 2009 Best Surgeon

n Board Certified in Orthopaedic Surgery n Arthroscopic and Reconstructive

Surgery of the Knee & Shoulder n Fellowship in Sports Medicine

FONDREN ORTHOPEDIC GROUP L.L.P.

14861 Southwest Frwy, Suite C-302 • Sugar Land, Texas 77478

281-340-1234 • www.stevennolanmd.com

PEDIATRIC DENTAL CARE Infants thru Teens

Over 2 Over 25 5Y Years earss of E xperience of Experience

ST. LUKE’S MEDICAL GROUP SUGAR LAND 1327 Lake Pointe Parkway,Ste. 300 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-637-7695 stlukessugarlanddoctorgroup.com

PSYCHIATRY Bernadette U. Onuoha, M.D. Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry 12808 West Airport Blvd., Ste. 250 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.240.1035

RECONSTRUCTIVE/ PLASTIC SURGERY Peter Chang, M.D. , D.M.D. Ankur Mehta, M.D. Timeless Plastic Surgery Sugar Land Medical Plaza 1327 Lake Point Pkwy., Ste. 300 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.242.8463 timelessplasticsurgery.com

James James R. R. S Stamper, tamper, DDS DDS Serving Ser ving the the Fort Fort B Bend end Area Area since since 1 1979 979

12000 12000 W Wilcrest ilcrest (Murphy (Murphy Road) Road)

www.stamperkids.com w ww.stamperkids.com

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Family Malik Kutty, M.D. Luxe Plastic Surgery 4660 Sweetwater Blvd., Ste. 150 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.313.0551 luxeplasticsurgery.com

SPEECH/VOICE/ OCCUPATIONAL/ PHYSICAL THERAPY Amy Ahrens, M.S., CCC-SLP Stacy Leyk, M.A., CCC-SLP The Speech and Learning Center 5819 Highway 6 Missouri City, TX 77459 281.403.2600 Stephanie J. White, MA, CCC/SLP Sheba A. Kirmani, MSLP, CCC/SLP Cher Riles, MA, CCC/SLP Sarah Lee, OTR The Speech Enrichment Center 3340 FM 1092 Road, Ste. 150 Missouri City, TX 77459 281.403.KIDS (5437) speechenrichment.com

HOUSTON METHODIST SUGAR LAND HOSPITAL Lung cancer is the leading cause of death from cancer among men and women in the United States. More people die each year of lung cancer than colon, breast and prostate cancer combined. “Aside from giving up cigarettes, a lung cancer screening with CT is the most significant development in reducing deaths from lung cancer,” said Robert Malone, M.D., Medical Director of Radiology at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “Through screenings, we can detect lung cancer when it is small – long before it becomes symptomatic or spreads outside the lungs.” Individuals eligible for the screening are 55 to 77 years of age who currently smoke or have quit smoking in the past 15 years; have a tobacco smoking history of at least 30 “pack years” (an average of one pack a day for 30 years, two packs a day for 15 years, etc.); and receive a written order from a physician. For more information, please call their nurse navigator. 281-276-8549

SPINE ORTHOPEDIC

SOLIS MAMMOGRAPHY

Stanley C. Jones, M.D. Spine Care 7500 Beechnut, Ste. 150 Houston, TX 77074 713.773.2273

At Solis Mammography, giving women exceptional care means providing a warm, peaceful experience. With over 20 centers in Texas, Solis is now open in Katy and Sugar Land. Solis’ staff members are trained to be gentle, and their specialized breast radiologists are there to give women peace of mind about breast health. 866-686-8117 solismammo.com

SPORTS MEDICINE/ ORTHOPEDICS Arthur F. Chau, M.D., F.A.A.O.S. Fondren Orthopedic Group, L.L.P. 14861 Southwest Frwy.#C-302 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.340.1234 Steven E. Nolan, M.D. Fondren Orthopedic Group, L.L.P. 14861 Southwest Frwy. #C-302 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.340.1234

MEDICAL CENTERS & CLINICS OakBend Medical Center 1705 Jackson Street Richmond, TX 77469 281.341.3000 Sugar Land Medical Center 15300 Southwest Frwy. Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.274.6600

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Health

A D V E R T I S I N G

Azul Jaffer, M.D. 3531 Town Center Blvd. SouthSte. 102 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.980.1111 azulplasticsurgery.com

ST. LUKE’S MEDICAL GROUP HARI SUSARLA, M.D. CONTROL YOUR ASTHMA BEFORE IT CONTROLS YOU. Asthma affects nearly 19 million adults and 7 million children in the United States. In asthma, a patient’s airways tend to spasm in response to a trigger, leading to symptoms of wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness. Asthma can vary in severity, from a mild intermittent form which flares up only occasionally to more persistent forms that can cause up to daily symptoms. Typical agents that trigger asthma include upper respiratory infections, allergies, stress, acid reflux, pollen, and other allergens in the environment.

The consequences of uncontrolled asthma include absences from school or work, night time awakenings, emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and general decrease in quality of life. Thankfully, good treatments are available, and they do not require long waiting times to see a subspecialist. With proper understanding of how to manage asthma, you can learn to control your asthma before it controls you. For more information on asthma treatment options, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Susarla. Evening and Saturday hours are available. 281-637-7695 stlukessugarlanddoctorgroup.com 1327 Lake Pointe Parkway

HOUSTON FERTILITY CENTER The Houston Fertility Center, office of Sonja Kristiansen, M.D., is pleased to announce the opening of their new Sugar Land location at 2205 Williams Trace Blvd, Suite 106 on Oct. 1. Located in the heart of Sugar Land and servicing all of Fort Bend and surrounding counties, the Houston Fertility Center offers comprehensive and affordable fertility services by a double Board Certified Fertility Specialist. Their new Sugar Land location allows you private, modernized care in a tranquil setting with contemporary sophistication. At the Houston Fertility Center, they offer stateof-the-art services including in-vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), laser blastocyst biopsy, preimplantation genetic diagnosis, gender selection and fertility preservation. Their compassionate physician and staff are here to guide you through your fertility journey. 713-CallDrK (225-5375) CallDrK.com 2205 Williams Trace Blvd, Suite 106, Sugar Land 9055 Katy Freeway, Suite 450, Houston

IRIS S. POLINGER, M.D., PH. D., P.A. The aging face shows changes in all facial areas such as lines developing between the outer nose and the outer lips, lines developing around the lips, thinning of the lips and lips curling down, loss of bone and shifting of normal fat in the face. There is an increase of forehead lines and crows feet. These changes can be improved at Dr. Polinger's dermatology office by the use of muscle relaxants

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such as BotoxTM® , Xeomin® or Dysport®. They also use fillers such as Sculptra®, Voluma®, Restylane Lyft®, Juvederm®, Radiesse®, and Restylane Silk® to fill lines and cause collagen, the support protein in the skin, to regrow. Dr. Polinger is laser certified and offers a new, upgraded skin tightening laser to treat hanging neck skin and jowls. No surgical cutting is involved. The fractionated Pixel laser... Often you may use your HSA account before it expires at the end of the year. Please call for a free cosmetic consultation. 281-491-9278 dririspolinger.com 1415 Highway 6 South, Bldg. C400, Sugar Land

PAMELA CARR, M.D. SculpSure™ is the world’s first FDA-cleared laser treatment for non-invasive fat reduction! This exciting new technology will reduce areas of fat that just stubbornly won’t go away. Diet and exercise won’t always give us the body we yearn for. Time to eliminate excess belly fat, back fat, and resistant flank fat. Sculpture is a simple, external and painless 25 minute procedure. Fat literally melts away! One session with SculpSure™ and three months later experience a smooth 25% reduction in fat. Dr. Carr, right here in Sugar Land, is one of the first physicians in the nation to offer this revolutionary approach to non-invasive fat reduction. They are now prebooking patients for this state-of-the-art treatment. Why wait for New Year’s resolutions !? Begin the process to be your best now. Dr. Carr and her team look forward to helping you decide if SculpSure™ is right for you. Please call to schedule your appointment today. Let them help you “Release the Beauty Within!” 281-494-0034 carrderm.com 1111 Highway 6, Suite 160, Sugar Land

THE COMPOUNDING SHOP With more than 80 years of experience among its pharmacists, the Compounding Shop offers bio-identical hormone therapy and other customized prescriptions. Locally owned and operated since 1982, they are one of the first and most experienced compounding pharmacies in the Houston metropolitan area. The friendly, multi-lingual staff is certified and licensed, and they specialize in compounding. Providing exceptional customer service is their main goal, and they proudly stand by their products. In addition to bio-identical hormone replacement, the pharmacy offers pain management; veterinarian medicine; dental preparation; saliva hormone testing; nutritional and dietary support; consultation; and many other medications and products. The Compounding Shop is a member of the Professional Compounding Centers of America and the International Academy of Compounding Pharmacists. The Shop is open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and closed Saturday and Sunday. Come by and see what they can do for you! They now accept all Major Medical and Prescription Insurances, including Medicare Part D, for both compound and legend drugs. Note: Medicare Part D may not cover compounds. Please call for more information. 281-495-2230 mycompoundingshop.com 11851-A Wilcrest Drive, Houston

TIMELESS PLASTIC SURGERY PETER CHANG, M.D., D.M.D. Dr. Chang is considered to be one of the most educated plastic surgeons in the community, holding TWO Ivy League degrees, TWO doctorate degrees, and completing TWO surgical residencies, totaling more than 20 years of experience and training. These additional years of training have provided Dr. Chang with advanced surgical skills and knowledge enabling him to achieve excellent results. One of the procedures that appeals to many of Dr. Chang’s patients is the Timeless Lift. It is a perfect combination of facelift (rhytidectomy) and neck liposuction that can remove most of the visible signs of aging on the face and neck area. With the Timeless Lift, excess skin is removed, the muscles lying just under the skin are tightened, and excess fat in the neck is removed. Facial surgery is extremely complex and Dr. Chang has performed thousands of facial surgical procedures over the years. “My patients are looking for a natural-looking improvement,” said Dr. Chang. “They don’t want to change themselves entirely, just improve in certain areas. With procedures like the Timeless Lift, I can give them the improvement they are looking for.” His practice is the premier “concierge-type” cosmetic surgery practice that caters to each patient and his/her individual needs and desires. 281-242-TIME (8463) TimelessPlasticSurgery.com 1327 Lake Pointe Pkwy, Suite 300, Sugar Land

STEVEN NOLAN, MD FONDREN ORTHOPAEDIC GROUP Dr. Nolan specializes in the treatment of sports related injuries in the knee and shoulder and has vast experience treating these injuries with arthroscopy, a common minimally invasive procedure. Arthroscopic procedures can be performed either to evaluate or to treat many knee and shoulder conditions including torn floating cartilage, torn surface cartilage, ACL reconstruction and trimming damaged cartilage. Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery in which an examination and sometimes treatment of damage of the interior of a joint is performed using an arthroscope, a type of endoscopy that is inserted into the joint through a small incision. The surgical instruments used are smaller than traditional instruments. Dr. Nolan views the joint area on a video monitor, and can diagnose and repair torn joint tissue, such as ligament and meniscus or articular cartilage repair. The advantage of arthroscopy over traditional open surgery is that the joint does not have to be opened up fully. This reduces surgical recovery time and may increase the rate of surgical success due to less trauma to the connective tissue. The first task is to properly diagnose your problem. Call Dr. Nolan today — he has two locations for your convenience. stevennolanmd.com 14861 Southwest Frwy., Suite C-302, Sugar Land 281-340-1234; 6550 Mapleridge, Suite 108, Houston 713-661-0066

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The Jewel of the Golden Isles Sea Island offers visitors Southern hospitality that never goes out of style

The Cloister’s Main Entrance

By Noelle Valentine

ea Island – a private, coastal Georgia resort island – is an exceptional destination appealing to those who appreciate gracious service and heartfelt Southern hospitality. Home to two of the Top 10 resorts in the continental U.S., as recognized in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards three years in a row, the destination boasts four Forbes Five-Star experiences – The Cloister at Sea Island, The Lodge at Sea Island Golf Club, The Spa at Sea Island, and the Georgian Room restaurant – along with a vast array of adventures and experiences, Sea Island entices families, outdoor and activity enthusiasts, and those simply wanting to refresh and recharge. It is the only resort in the world to

have received four Forbes Five-Star awards for seven consecutive years. Sea Island lies off the southeastern coast of Georgia, halfway between Savannah and Jacksonville, Florida, and is surrounded by five miles of private, pristine beach on the Atlantic Ocean to the east and separated from St. Simons Island on the west by the largest salt marsh on the eastern seaboard. The resort is a one-hour drive from both cities’ international airports. Four miles away, McKinnon St. Simons Island Airport welcomes private aircrafts. Delta Airlines services the Brunswick Golden Isles Airport, 14 miles from Sea Island, through its partner, Atlantic Southeast Airlines. Sea Island transportation is

The Cloister’s Solarium

104 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

Cloister’s Colonial Lounge/lobby

readily available from all airports. While there are a number of reasons to love Sea Island, we’ve put together a list of the top five, counting down: 5. Southern Hospitality. Experience the South at its finest — the Sea Island Service team epitomizes southern hospitality. As soon as you arrive, the staff members go out of their way to welcome you and do whatever they can to ensure you enjoy an unforgettable stay. As you step into the lobby and are escorted to your finelyappointed, spacious, elegant accommodations, you’ll feel as though you’re taking a step back in time. Everyone is beyond courteous. After the first meeting with a staff member, you’ll be happily surprised to find that they always call you by name. Maintaining an exact attention to detail that can only be achieved by an awardwinning staff, your stay will be managed by a single point of contact dedicated to ensuring that all aspects of your get-away are flawless. 4. The Natural Beauty. Originally planted by former President Calvin Coolidge in 1928, the live oaks all over the island are now more than 80 years old and simply gorgeous — as are The Cloister’s gardens, golf courses and five miles of private beach.

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Cloister Ocean Residences

Coolidge wasn’t the only notable politician to add to the luxury hotel’s landscape; Margaret Thatcher, Gerald Ford, Tony Blair and Dwight Eisenhower and many more have planted trees in the lush, verdant landscape. As well, the fertile marshland and coast attracts masses of animals. You’ll discover the flora and fauna of the island’s maritime forest, marshes and beach with opportunities galore for birding and shelling, and the hotel even offers an adopt-a-nest program for the native loggerhead sea turtles. 3. History. The Cloister hotel has a long history dating back to the 1920s — when Palm Beach trailblazing architect Addison Mizner designed it — and has welcomed guests for over 80 years. With its opening in 1928, Bill Jones and automobile magnate Howard Coffin created “a friendly little hotel” on the southern coast of Georgia. In the decades that have passed since Sea Island’s first guest, much in has changed while much remains the same. In 2006, an extensive rebuild replaced the historic building with all with the same charm, charisma and meticulous attention to detail of the property of yesteryear. Though the resort has

evolved through the years, the simple traditions that define Sea Island have been preserved. The same children who once played on the shore years ago now bring their children and grandchildren to play on the same beach. Over the years, The Cloister also has played host to presidential figures and European royalty. The Sea Island hotel was the venue of the G8 Summit in 2004, with George H.W. Bush and other world leaders in attendance. Continuing the pattern with other previous venues of the G8 meeting, the island is remote, easily secured and has luxurious accommodations. 2. Activities and Amenities. Whether you’re 5 or 55, there is plenty to do at this Five-Star hotel, from swimming, fishing and boating (relax on the hotel’s own Cloister Belle yacht) to horseback riding, skeet shooting and squash, tennis and golf. The Sea Island Golf Performance Center is one of the resort’s signature experiences. The state-of-theart facility offers an indoor video studio, 300 yards of teeing area, target greens, short-game areas and an exclusive club-fitting service.

Cloister Ocean Residence Living Room

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Five-Star Spa - Water Atrium

Spa Fountain

Avenue of Oaks

Sea Island Golf Club’s three 18-hole championship courses – Seaside, Plantation and Retreat – are situated on breathtaking landscapes. Seaside (Par 70; six tee areas; 5,048 to 7,005 yards; 120 to 141 slope) – Situated at the southern tip of St. Simons Island, Seaside is the pinnacle of links golf. A true links-style course – linking the sea to the land – features 15 holes flanked by captivating views of the Georgia coast’s diverse landscapes. Offering Sea Island’s most demanding layout, Seaside is the host venue for the PGA Tour’s McGladrey Classic. Plantation (Par 72; six tee areas; 5,194 to 7,058 yards; 122 to 136 slope) – Unfolding from a forest of ancient live oaks, cedars and Georgia’s lush, long-leaf pines, the Plantation’s tree-lined layout brandishes breathtaking ocean views, plentiful lakes, expansive fairways and liberal sight lines between holes. The Rees Jones-designed course tempts both the experienced and novice player with a tiny hint of danger lurking in the course’s tidal creeks and lakes. Retreat (Par 72; six tee areas; 5,082 to 7,106 yards, 117 to 135 slope) – When Davis Love III and his brother Mark began renovating the Retreat Course in October 2000, they knew they had a difficult task. Fusing the players’ preferences from the previous design, the brothers created a distinctively dramatic design. The green complexes successfully combine slope, sand bunkers and undulations that challenge golfers to find a wide variety of shots. For unique activities you’ll only find at The Cloister, play a game of bingo unlike any you’ve seen at the local VFW hall. At The Cloister, bingo games are upscale, popular family affairs held in the ballroom. You may be on a secluded private island, but the best amenities are at your fingertips. Georgia’s only Five-Star restaurant and spa call The Cloister home. You easily can spend the day being pampered at The Cloister Spa. Unwind in the leafy garden atrium on your comfy chaise lounge, soak in the pool where the gushing waterfall drowns out any stresses, or reflect and relax in the onsite labyrinth. 1. A Home Away From Home. Sea Island is a home away from home for discriminating travelers and young, modern families, who have made the Sea Island Tradition their own. The Cloister Ocean Residences – Those who are looking to own a piece of this exceptional island destination will find their home away from home at The Cloister Ocean Residences, a shared ownership opportunity. “It’s a smart way to own and enjoy the best of Sea Island, with all the amenities and benefits of a Five-Star resort and none of the worries of maintaining a vacation home — all at a fraction of the initial and ongoing costs,” says Randy Burgess, project director for The Cloister Ocean Residences, who touts the $100,000 value of the Sea Island Club membership that comes with the purchase.

The Lodge at Sea Island

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The Cloister Ocean Residences are a private, gated oceanfront enclave overlooking an expansive beach. The community blends 22 elegantly furnished one-, two- and three-bedroom residences just steps from the beach. These residences are designed to free their owners from the high expenses and maintenance worries of traditional vacation homes. Owners enjoy one-fourth undivided, deeded interests in fully furnished and maintained residences, with a guarantee of one week each month. A complimentary Chairman’s Club membership for three years in 3RD HOME offers the ability to exchange weeks for vacations at thousands of other luxurious destinations worldwide. Visit www.3rdhome.com for more information. “The Cloister Ocean Residences are much more than an oceanfront real estate purchase; they provide a lifestyle of quality time spent with family and friends, creating special memories and a legacy for generations to come,” says Burgess. Shares start at $375,000 and go to $1.1 million, with an average of $700,000. If a simple vacation is more of what you desire, rental opportunities abound. Select a place from any number of the luxurious, wellappointed options available. For more information, visit www.cloisteroceanresidences.com or call 844-842-8317. The Lodge at Sea Island Golf Club – The AAA Five-Diamond, Forbes Five-Star Lodge at Sea Island Golf Club caters to guests seeking ultimate privacy and luxury. The intimate 40-room hotel and golf clubhouse offers expansive ocean views, and is surrounded by the emerald fairways of The Sea Island Golf Club. The stunning accommodations offer the feel of a classic English country manor with hand-crafted Oriental rugs, spacious marble baths with deep-soaking tubs and rainhead showers. Sea Island Cottages – Renting a cottage on Sea Island is a treasured tradition for many of the resort’s frequent visitors. Of approximately 600 privately owned Cottages on Sea Island, 150 are available for rent. Each is uniquely designed, providing guests with a selection of styles and décor from which to choose. The homes range from three to eight bedrooms and most residences offer beach, salt marsh or tidal creek views. Rental of the Cottages includes complete access to dining, golf, spa, and resort privileges at The Cloister and The Lodge at Sea Island Golf Club. Those wanting to own a second home and be a part of the Sea Island lifestyle have many options. Sea Island Properties can provide information about housing options. With interest rates at all time lows, it’s a great time to look for lots, residences, condos and shared ownership properties. From quaint smaller cottages to estate-size oceanfront compounds, you can choose from Dune, Forest, Ocean or River Cottages. Ocean or Beach Club residences offer 3-4 bedrooms, just steps from the Sea Island Beach Club. Beach Club suites offer 1- and 2-bedroom floorplans. The River Club Townhomes offer 2-5 bedroom floorplans. The newest of the Sea Island resort offerings are The Cloister Cottages. They have 4 bedrooms and are approximately 4,000 square feet with gourmet kitchens, screened porches and a plunge pool. Contact Sea Island Properties at 912-638-5161 or visit www.seaislandproperties.com. Renowned for its hospitality, unique location and opportunity to create lasting and ongoing memories, Sea Island has been creating lifelong traditions for discerning travelers and offering real estate ownership opportunities since 1928. Experience Sea Island at www.seaisland.com or call 855-231-6761. l

Beach Club Pool

Inshore Fishing

Hunting at Broadfield

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ç By Denman Moody

author, The Advanced Oenophile

Great Values Tastings with Republic, Chamelion and more winners with dinner

Former Houstonian Tim Thornhill, COO of Parducci/Moniker.

I: The quality of Rioja wines started accelerating in the ’90s, and they are still on a roll. In a recent tasting hosted by Republic National Distributing Company, here are my favorites, all recommended: Bodegas Palacio, Milflores Blanco 2013 $15; Glorioso Crianza 2010 $16.50; Bodegas Ontañon Crianza 2011 $16.50; Bodegas Antaño Reserva 2007 $13.50; Montecillo Gran Reserva 2007 $32; Marques de Riscal Proximo 2010 $10; Marques de Riscal Reserva 2005 $20; Artadi Viñedos y Vinos Viñas de Gain 2011 $26; Artadi Viñedos de Viños Tempranillo Valde 2011 $26; Palacios Remondo Blanco Placet 2011 $40; Palacios Remondo Propiedad 2010 $42; Bodegas Faustino Gran Reserva 2001 $34; Finca Valpiedra Reserva 2007 $36; Torres Altos 2012 $15; Bodegas Valdemar Finca Alto Cantabria Blanco 2012 $17; Bodegas Valdemar Gran Reserva 2005 $32; Viña Equia Crianza 2009 $13 II: Recent tasting of selections from Chamelion Distributors, my favorites, all recommended: Small Vines Chardonnay Sonoma Coast 2013 $46 and Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast 2013 $48; Hugo Family Cellars Grenache/Syrah “Misceo” Napa Valley

The McBride sisters, owners of Truvée Wines.

Hélène Seillan of Cenyth.

2010 $28; Muscardini Cellars Fortuna Red Blend BWise Vineyards $55 and Chamizal (88% Zinfandel/12% Petite Sirah) 2012 $48; Trombetta Family Wines Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast 2012 and 2013 $42 each; Macauley Chardonnay Russian River Valley Dutton Ranch 2013 and Petite Sirah Napa Valley 2012 $42; Saffron Fields Pinot Noir Yamill Carlton 2012 $48 and Heritage Clones 2013 $48; Zyme, II Bianco Veneto 2014 $25; Paternoster Aglianico Del Vulture Synthesi, Basilicate 2011 $24; Saddleback Chardonnay Napa Valley 2013 $27 and Rancher Red Oakville Napa Valley 2012 $27; Fort Ross Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast Sea Slope 2012 $34; Nimrod Kovacs Furmint (primary grape of Hungary’s Tokaji) 2011 $23 III: Recently tasted winners with dinners — three Whites and six Reds: Truvée Chardonnay Central Coast 2014 —The debut wine of Robin and Andrea McBride, sisters who grew up apart in New Zealand and California, and were reunited by their father’s last wish. This is the bestvalue Chardonnay I’ve tasted from the Central Coast. Flavors of citrus and “delicate notes of tropical fruit.” Fried shrimp with tartar sauce. Great value. $15

Moniker Chardonnay Mendocino County 2013 — From the owners of Parducci Winery, and primarily from the Estate Vineyard along The Russian River Valley. An addition of Viognier and French oak aging really perks up this wine with charm and approachability. Bright and refreshing. Sliced turkey sandwich. Underpriced. $16 Miner Chardonnay Napa Valley 2012 — “Crisp apple and ripe melon fruit with subtle citrus flavors.” Interesting by itself, it blossomed with Alaskan Cod with tartar sauce. Full and rich. The 2011 Miner Chardonnay Napa Valley Wild Yeast is also a great find. Perfect with La Vista’s crab cakes! $32 and $48 respectively. Chateau Artix Minervoise 2011 — Perfect example of my comment in The Advanced Oenophile that the Languedoc area is a treasure trove of excellent wines — mostly reds — for under $20. Deep color with alluring nose and depth of flavors, primarily from Carignan, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Beef stew. $15 Justin Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles 2013 — Attractive bottle design. A class act with blueberries, spice and everything nice. Perfectly ready to drink with lovely fruit and supple tannins. Flank steak. $26

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ç By Denman Moody

author, The Advanced Oenophile

Send Us Your Nominees!

Here are some ideas to get you started. When submitting your selections be sure to EXPLAIN WHY you chose them. EMAIL: editor@lifestyles-magazines.com or go to (fortbendlifestylesandhomes.com) and click on “Best Of Fort Bend” and submit your choices online.

Dave Miner, founder/owner of Miner Family Winery.

Travis and Catherine Vale of Experience.

Experience Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2012 — Artisticly alluring label, which I admired for some time before opening the bottle. Rich taste of blackberries, black currants and baking spices, excellent balance and long finish. From sight to smell to taste to finish, all components in harmony. Bacon cheeseburger. $28 Brandlin Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2012 — Cuvaison purchased the Brandlin property high up on Mt Veeder in 1998. The Brandlin Famiy had been farming there since 1926! Beautiful raspberry and black cherry flavors with tender tannins. For a treat, visit www.brandlinvineyard.com and click on the short video. The message is short but sweet. Great wine at the right price. Rib eye. $60 Guarachi Family Wines Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast Sun Chase Vineyard 2013 — As a wine importer, Sam Guarachi has always dreamed of his own “handselected, ultra-luxury wine from California.” Here it is!! Rich, enticing and redolent of black cherries. Roasted duck with cherry sauce. $60 Cenyth Sonoma County Red 2010 — One of the top winemakers anywhere is

Piere Seillan, who makes, among other wines, Verite, which sells for $390 a bottle at release. This is the first release for his daughter Hélène. It is a right bank Bordeaux look-alike with 54% Merlot, 34% Cabernet Franc and 12% Cabernet Sauvignon. Dark ruby color with lovely fruit flavors with a hint of spice and white pepper. I’m guessing her dad was her mentor here, as this first effort is beguiling and first-class. Veal Marsala. $60 By the way... here’s what I will be enjoying on New Year’s Eve: Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve Champagne, always outstanding and in the top two or three nonvintage sparklers. Tasting more like a late disgorged top-of-the-line $100+ wine, this has long been one of my favorites. $65 Denman Moody is the former publisher of Moody’s Wine Review, which the Washington Post said was “...certainly the best publication in this country for tracking the state of rare and exotic wines.” He was also the contributing editor on rare wines for the International Wine Review in New York from 1984-1990. He is an author, freelance wine writer and wine consultant. Denman is the Texas broker for the wines of Dr. Konstantin Frank, Finger Lakes, N.Y. TheAdvancedOenophile.com.

Food & Drink BEST Hamburger BEST Craft Beer BEST Enchiladas BEST Margaritas BEST Martini BEST Tacos BEST Steak under $20 BEST Steak over $15 BEST Italian Food BEST Sandwiches BEST Dessert BEST ___________ Community BEST Volunteer BEST Police Officer BEST Fireman BEST Place to Work BEST School Club BEST Bird Watching BEST Golfer (local) BEST Golf shot BEST Hole-in-One BEST Touchdown BEST Veterinarian BEST Homerun BEST Golf Hole BEST Place to walk your dog BEST Teacher/Coach BEST Sales Clerk BEST Clothes Boutique BEST Place to buy a gift BEST ___________

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DINING GUIDE AMERICAN

Café Express 15930 City Walk Blvd. Sugar Land • 281/980-9222

Guru Burgers & Crepes 2268 Texas Drive Sugar Land • 281/313-0026

Hoggs N Chicks 8817 Highway 6, Ste. 900 Missouri City • 281/778-4644

Cafe East Chinese Buffet 4645 Highway 6 Sugar Land• 281/491-8181

Cheesecake Factory 16535 Southwest Frwy. Sugar Land • 281/313-9500

Live Oak Grill 12935 Dairy Ashford Sugar Land • 281/491-5253

Willie’s Grill & Icehouse 945 Highway 6 Sugar Land • 281/242-2252

Cafe Goo Goo Yen 1730 Williams Trace Blvd. Sugar Land • 281/277-8383

Another Time Soda Fountain & Cafe 800 Third Street Rosenberg • 281/232-2999

Chili’s Grill & Bar 15355 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/242-5444

Ray’s Grill 8502 FM 359 Fulshear • 281/533-0099 www.raysgrill.com

Wings N Things 3375 Highway 6 Sugar Land • 281/242-2999

Japaneiro’s Sushi Bistro & Latin Grill 2168 Texas Drive Sugar Land • 281/242-1121

Beck’s Prime Sugar Land Ltd. 1822 Highway 6 Sugar Land • 281/242-6300

Five Guys 15810 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/277-7755

BJ’s Restaurant • Brewery 2231 Highway 6 Sugar Land • 281/242-0400

Flying Saucer Draught Emporium 15929 City Walk Sugar Land • 281/242-7468

Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar 12740 Southwest Freeway Stafford • 281/265-1415

Black Walnut Cafe 16535 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/565-7800

Fuddruckers Inc. 11445 Fountain Lake Drive Stafford • 281/240-9414

The Burning Pear 16090 City Walk Sugar Land • 281/275-5925

ASIAN/SUSHI Ruggles Green 15903 City Walk Sugar Land • 281/565-1175 T.G.I. Fridays 2515 Town Center Blvd. N. Sugar Land • 281/494-8400 The Grille at Quail Valley Golf Course 2880 La Quinta Dr. Missouri City • 281/403-5920

AZUMA on The Lake 15830 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/313-0518

Keeper’s Japanese Restaurant 4654 Highway 6 Sugar Land • 281/242-0389

Benihana Grill 2579 Town Center Blvd. Sugar Land • 281/565-8888

King Bo II Chinese Restaurant 4707 Hwy. 6 South Missouri City • 281/403-2222

BLU Restaurant I Lounge 2248 Texas Drive Sugar Land • 281/903-7324

Kublai Khan Mongolian Stir Fry 15830 SW Freeway Sugar Land • 281/565-7277 Orient Cafe 1852 FM 359 Richmond • 281/239-7900 Panda Garden 3563 Highway 6 Sugar Land• 281/265-0303 Pearl Dynasty 19828 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/238-5800

16100 Kensington Dr. #500 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.491.0275

Pei Wei 16101 Kensington Drive Sugar Land • 281/240-1931 P.F. Chang’s China Bistro 2120 Lone Star Drive Sugar Land • 281/313-8650 Pho Mai 16200 Kensington Dr. Sugar Land • 281/491-1528 Sabai Thai Cafe 2705 Town Center Blvd. Sugar Land • 281/325-1007 Songkran Thai Kitchen 1101-08 Uptown Park Blvd. Houston • 713/993-9096 2258 Texas Drive Sugar Land • 281/670-8525 Thai Cottage 4723 Sweetwater Blvd. Sugar Land • 281/313-0707

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BARBECUE Brookstreet Bar-B-Q 1418 Highway 6 Sugar Land • 281/313-4000 7232 Highway 6 Missouri City 281/403-3050

Baker St. Pub & Grill 15970 City Walk Street Sugar Land • 281/494-0774 Churrascos 1520 Lake Pointe Parkway Sugar Land • 832/532-5300

Old Hickory Inn 3334 FM 1092 Missouri City • 281/499-8904

Dumar’s Mediterranean Grill 4518 Highway 6 Sugar Land • 281/313-1893

Otto’s Barbecue 11222 Fountain Lake Dr. Stafford • 281/313-6886

Fernando’s Latin Cuisine 14135 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/494-9087

Spring Creek Barbeque 4895 Highway 6 Missouri City • 281/499-8222

Karl’s Restaurant & Bar 503 FM 359 Richmond • 281/238-9300

The Swinging Door 3818 FM 359 Richmond • 281/342-4758

La Madeleine 2675 Town Center Blvd. Sugar Land • 281/494-4400

Vasos Bar-B-Q 9920 Highway 90A Sugar Land • 281/242-8585

Turquoise Grill 16019 City Walk Sugar Land • 281/937-7447

CAJUN Pappadeaux’s 12711 Southwest Freeway Stafford• 281/240-5533

Zoe’s Kitchen 2260 Lone Star Dr. Sugar Land • 281/277-6215

INDIAN

Ragin Cajun Seafood & Oyster Bar 16100 Kensington Drive Sugar Land • 281/277-0704

Cafe India 2319 Williams Trace Blvd. Sugar Land • 281/565-5881

Razoo’s Cajun Cafe 12770 Southwest Freeway Stafford • 281/340-1200

Madras Pavillion 16260 Kensington Drive Sugar Land • 281/491-3672

The Rouxpour Restaurant & Bar 2298 Texas Drive Sugar Land • 281/240-7689

The Bombay Palace 15295 Southwest Frwy. Sugar Land • 281/325-0071

DESSERT Nothing Bundt Cakes 1531 Texas 6, Suite 125 Sugar Land• 281/491-2253 Inside Scoop 15810 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land• 281/277-0415

FRENCH/ CONTINENTAL/ LATIN AMERICAN Aura Brasserie 15977 City Walk Sugar Land • 281/403-2872

Shiva Indian Restaurant 2130 Lone Star Dr. Sugar Land • 281/494-2981

ITALIAN/PIZZA Antonia’s Cucina Italiana 4849 Sweetwater Blvd. Sugar Land • 281/265-4000 Carrabba’s Italian Grill 2335 Highway 6 S. Sugar Land • 281/980-4433 Coal Vines 1550 Lake Pointe Parkway #100 Sugar Land • 281/491-0464 Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015 | 111

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Corelli’s Italian Cafe 3229 Highway 6 S. @ Williams Trace Sugar Land• 281/491-8900 Grimaldi’s 16535 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/265-2280 Jupiter Pizza & Waffle Co. 16135 City Walk Sugar Land • 281/313-1008 Lasagna House 16089 City Walk Sugar Land • 281/277-3400 Mia Bella Trattoria 16535 Southwest Frwy Sugar Land • 281/240-5000 Pepperoni’s PIzza 9 convenient locations www.pepperonis.net Russo’s NY Coal-Fired Italian Kitchen 10350 Highway 6, Ste. G Missouri City • 281/431-6637

Fish City Grill 15980 City Walk Sugar Land• 281/494-3474 Catering 281-818-8937

Escalantes 15933 City Walk Sugar Land •281/242-1100

Joe’s Crab Shack 19740 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/344-2100

Fuzzy’s Taco Shop 4875 Highway 6 Missouri City • 281/261-8226

Pappadeaux’s 12711 Highway 59 S Stafford • 281/240-5533

La Cocina Mexican Restaurant 515 FM 359 Richmond • 281/238-0872

Las Haciendas 12821 Southwest Freeway Stafford • 281/240-3060 Lopez Mexican Restaurant 11606 Wilcrest Drive Houston • 281/495-2436 Lupé Tortilla 15801 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/265-7500 Lupita’s 3121 Highway 6 Sugar Land • 281/265-6556

MEXICAN Berryhill 13703 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/313-8226

Pier 61 Seafood, Oyster Bar & Grill 12106 Murphy Rd. Stafford • 281/988-4688

La Escondida Mexican Grill 7270 Highway 6 Missouri City • 281/403-3306

MEDITERRANEAN Red Oak Grill 203 Century Square Blvd. Sugar Land • 281/491-2890 5011 Highway 6, Ste. 100 Missouri City • 281/969-5074

SEAFOOD

Chipotle’s Mexican Grill 2280 Lone Star Drive Town Square Sugar Land • 281/980-6622 6245 Highway 6 Missouri City • 281/261-6305

Pappasito’s Cantina 13750 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/565-9797 Soto’s Kitchen 2899 Dulles Ave Missouri City • 832/539-1757

SPECIALTY/ SANDWICHES/ CATERING Buffalo Wild Wings 1401 Highway 6 S. Sugar Land • 281/313-9464 Earl of Sandwich 1930 Highway 6 Sugar Land • 281/240-2408 Jason’s Deli 15275 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/565-3737 Jimmy Johns Gourmet Sandwich 2276 Lone Star Dr. Sugar Land • 281/265-0808 Salata 2170 Town Square Place Sugar Land • 832/886-4582

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Schlotzsky’s 15287 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/-565-2867

Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille 2115 Town Square Place Sugar Land • 281/565-2727

Murphy’s Deli 13645 Murphy Rd. Stafford • 281/261-8069 13134 Dairy Ashford Sugar Land • 281/494-1960

Saltgrass Steak House 19720 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/232-3502

Panera Bread 1928 Highway 6 Sugar Land • 281/242-7323 Potbelly Sandwich Works 1815 Highway 6 S. Sugar Land • 281/277-2515 Quiznos 11339 Fountain Lake Dr. Stafford• 281/277-2444

Texas Land & Cattle Steak House 12710 Southwest Freeway Stafford • 281/494-8844 Tradicao Brazilian Steakhouse 12000 Southwest Freeway Stafford • 281/277-9292 Veritas Steak and Seafood 1550 Lake Pointe Parkway Sugar Land • 281/491-2901

TEA ROOM Smashburger 2623 Town Center Blvd. Sugar Land • 281/491-0380 Subway Sandwiches & Salads 6260 Highway 6 Missouri City • 281/208-3360 609 Dulles Ave. Stafford • 281/499-5353 16318 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/240-5353 3557 Highway 6 Missouri City • 281/980-5353

STEAKHOUSES Longhorn Steakhouse 16746 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/240-1018 Outback Steakhouse 15253 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/980-4329

Serenitea Tea Room & Gift Shop 13889 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land • 281/491-4588 Teahouse & Coffee Tapioca Bar 4727 Sweetwater Blvd. Sugar Land • 281/565-5856

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Meghan & Scott Text by Melanie Saxton Photos by Morgan Lynn Photography

core one point in the international romance department for University of Georgia sport scholarships. Meghan Gibbons — a young woman born and raised in The Woodlands — and Scott Alpine — a young man born and raised in New Zealand — met precisely because each ended up at the University of Georgia on such a scholarship. The rest is a happily-ever-after love story. Meghan attended the John Cooper School and played on the first and only state championship soccer team at The Woodlands High School. She also grew up playing for the Challenge Soccer Club and is now one of its trainers. She earned a business degree in marketing with a soccer scholarship at University of Georgia and works in aviation sales at Flight Aware in Houston. Scott Alpine attended St. Kentigern College in New Zealand and earned a degree in housing and consumer economics at University of Georgia while on a golf scholarship. He is a licensed pilot as well as a real estate agent at New Western Acquisitions in Houston. This past May 30, they tied the knot at The Woodlands United Methodist Church, Robb Chapel, followed by a dream-come-true reception at Chandelier Grove, an exclusive 15-acre orchard in Tomball.

Introductions and First Date Meghan and Scott had many mutual sports friends and were introduced the fall of 2010. They ran into each other at study halls and tutorials. The group of friends used “Hey Tell,” a popular voice messaging app, to stay in touch. Meghan and her friends loved listening to Scott’s adorable accent. They eventually went on a casual first date at Mirko, an Italian restaurant in Athens, Georgia. From there it was “game on,” and the two became inseparable.

Courtship They dated for just over three years, making multiple trips home to Houston for the holidays and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. They flew to New Zealand four times and also studied abroad together to earn college credits, visiting seven cities and four countries. The couple also loved Georgia football games in the fall and sorority and fraternity date nights in the spring. Scott injured his leg and had to take a break from golf, and joined the club water polo team. An absolutely stunning bride poses in her gown. • Aisles adorned with flowers frame the couple at the altar.

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Proposal Scott had already moved to The Woodlands and was living with Meghan’s parents while she finished an intern-

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Maids surround their bride the morning of the ceremony. • The bride’s attendants add a bit of laughter to the occasion as they attend to every detail. • A whimsical and lovely gown adorns the bride. • An emotional bride reads a note from her beloved. • The bridal gown hangs resplendent. • The mother of the bride glows with happiness.

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ship in Atlanta. Meghan was supposed to drive straight back to Texas to join Scott, but he suggested they meet in New Orleans, a place he had never visited. They toured the French quarter, ate beignets and explored Bourbon Street. Scott made reservations at Doris Metropolitan Restaurant and planned to have a horse-drawn carriage drop them off at Jackson Square. Unfortunately, what had been a beautiful sunny day in New Orleans turned into an drenching summer shower. In lieu of a carriage ride, they took a cab. Then it suddenly stopped raining. The tourists had cleared out due to the previous downpour, and the couple stood alone facing a church. Scott got down on one knee and proposed. “It was beautiful!” notes Meghan, who, of course, said yes.

Engagement They flew to Croatia after the proposal to meet Scott’s parents for an extended engagement celebration. They spent seven days on a boat, and Meghan studied wedding magazines while Scott helped with a complicated guest list involving nearly four dozen New Zealanders who would fly to Texas. Scott began working that fall, and Meghan began working that spring, so they had ample free time for dedicated wedding planning.

The Wedding

On his way to the ceremony with his groomsmen close behind. • The groom pulls on one of his signature socks. • Groomsmen reminisce over a funny moment at the rehearsal dinner. • Chalkboard signs add a personal flair.

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The bride envisioned an elegant ceremony in the church and a rustic venue for the reception, both with an abundance of flowers. Pastor Mark Sorenson officiated as the parents of the bride, Jim and Melissa Gibbons, joined the parents of the groom, Dave and Deirdre McAlpine, watching the ceremony. Attire: The bride’s Monique Lhuillier champagne silk beneath a white Chantilly lace overlay gown had a subtle sweetheart neckline and beaded appliques from the Bliss Spring 2015 Collection. The bottom was layered in kremlin fabric with horsehair trim. A Vera Wang veil with matching horsehair trim, a beaded belt, and a Jimmy Choo “Baxen” wedge peep toe pump in nude/gold completed the ensemble. The “something old” was the white glove that the bride’s grandmother had worn on her own wedding day, pinned inside the bride’s gown. The “something new” was her gift from the groom — diamond earrings. The “something borrowed” was her mother’s diamond tennis bracelet.

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Bridesmaids wore Monique Lhuillier long strapless dresses in chiffon with flower detail on the bodice and empire waist, custom made in the color Slate. They all wore Kendra Scott drop earrings and their own nude pumps or strappy heels. The groom wore a charcoal suit and matching vest, Georgia bulldog socks, Allen Edmond “Strand” cap-toe oxfords and matching belt, and a purple and grey striped tie. Groomsmen wore Hugo Boss slim-fit charcoal wool suits, and the same socks and shoes as the groom, and matching belts and grey ties. Bridal Party: Nicole Locandro and Kylie Cook served as maids of honor, with Sara Ellis, Emily Dunlap, Nikki Hill, Madeline Barker, Lauren Tanner and Sarah McAlpine serving as bridesmaids. Grayson Bullard was the flower girl. Brian Carter and Sam Sherning served as best men, joined by groomsmen Wes Gibbons, Jacob Gibbons, T.J. Mitchell, Joey Garber, Jim Sheffield and Neil Wethington. Hudson Bullard was the ring bearer.

Place cards are surrounded by lovely flowers. • Let the merriment begin! • An exquisite venue awaits the guests. • The couple cuts the extraordinary cake. • The ring bearer and flower girl play air guitars.

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A proud father dances with his gorgeous daughter. • Fun with sunglasses! • The newlyweds enjoy a romantic first dance. • Celebrating happily ever after. • The groom and his mother share a moment on the dance floor.

Floral and Décor: J Low Events decorated the church entrance with two large flower arrangements, and every other pew had flower arrangements with greenery. The bride favored white and purple hydrangeas, white peonies, white and purple freesia, white and purple lisianthus and white spray roses. Top Wedding Moments: The couple opted not to do a “first look,” so the bride enjoyed seeing her groom’s expression as she headed toward the altar. “I think my dad and I must have both been a little nervous, because we walked very quickly down the aisle!” she says. They exchanged traditional vows, and the crowd cheered as they kissed.

The Reception J Low Events staged different elegant looks within the venue, changing them as events changed from cocktailing to dinner and to dancing, all done without guests noticing.

The event planner also worked with the couple to incorporate personal touches into their celebration, including a “Georgia Bulldog” on 14-foot ice bar with two shot luges on the end in the shapes of Texas and New Zealand. The groom’s love of candy and Moscow Mules (Australian ginger beer — his specialty drink) shone through, and the Moscow Mule mugs were engraved with the couple’s wedding monogram. A cigar bar offered handrolling on-site. A custom backdrop photo booth displayed the wedding date and monogram. Music and dance floor items entertained guests, includ-

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ing purple, grey and white dancing sandals, blow up guitars, light-up tambourines and sunglasses. Floral and Décor: The bride loved that there were flowers everywhere from floor to ceiling, accenting the old architecture and wooden beams of Chandelier Grove and flower chandelier above the dance floor. White snap dragons, white and purple stalk, sweet pea, vendella roses, white garden roses and Sterline roses were scattered throughout. The head table was covered with beautiful white lace and beaded linens with two charger plates, one clear with the rim covered in rhinestones/crystals, and one in silver with light silver designs around the edge. The menu sat on the charger wrapped in a purple napkin. The guest tables were decorated in matte silver linens and alternating centerpieces with high flower arrangements in silver holders and low arrangements surrounded by vintage candleholders. Everyone was seated on Chiavari chairs. A chalkboard artist created all of the signs, and photos from the couple’s engagement served as the guest book, with blank spaces for signing names. The Cakes: The white-on-white, six-layer wedding cake was iced in buttercream icing with purple and white flowers between the layers. The groom’s red velvet cake was shaped like New Zealand, draped with the country’s flag, and decorated with an airplane above his home town pointing towards the U.S. and flying a “Just Married” banner. Top Reception Moments: After one lesson to learn a box step, the couple opted

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instead to “wing” their moves! Their first dance was to “Take the World” by Johnny Swim. The bride and her father danced to Tim McGraw’s, “My Little Girl.” The groom and his mother danced to “Stand by Me” by Ben E King. The band played great classics and everyone, including the groom’s grandfather, “got down!” The bridesmaids danced on stage and threw flower petals all over the dance floor! The bride and groom sang “Don’t Stop Believing” on stage with the band. The couple also “Called the Dawgs” as is done at Georgia football games. The bouquet and garter toss were also entertaining. Waffle Bus and Oh My Gogi food trucks arrived on the lawn for late-night snacks. The Exit: Mr. and Mrs. Alpine walked out through a sparkler tunnel and left in a classic Rolls Royce.

The Honeymoon The well-traveled couple plan a belated 10-day Maldives honeymoon in spring 2016. They live in Houston’s museum district with Dakota, their German shorthaired pointer who appeared in some of the bridal photos and also in a picture frame displayed by the groom’s cake. l

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Dan Wolterman

Rick Miller

‹Memorial Hermann Health System President & CEO Announces Intent to Retire As part of a long-term succession plan implemented more than a year ago, Dan Wolterman, president and CEO of the Memorial Hermann Health System announced his intention to retire in the second half of 2016. The Memorial Hermann Health System board and executive leadership have engaged Spencer Stuart, a leading executive search firm, to conduct a national search for Wolterman’s successor. The board will consider both internal and external candidates. “It has been a great honor to lead one of most respected health care systems in the nation,” said Wolterman. “It has been particularly gratifying and a privilege to work with a group of incredible employees and physicians that are among the best in the country. But it has always been my desire to retire at 60 to travel with my wife, Lori, spend more time with our family and enjoy the next chapter of our lives.” “Unfortunately, we knew this day was coming for some time now,” said Will Williams, chair of the Memorial Hermann Health System board. “So in the interest of a smooth transition, the Board and executive leadership began the succession planning to accommodate Dan’s wishes to retire in July. Wolterman joined Memorial Hermann in 1999 and was promoted to CEO in 2002. His tenure as CEO has seen Memorial Hermann achieve year-over-year double-digit growth, ascend to the largest not-for-profit health system in Southeast Texas and one of the largest in the country, while expanding to 13 hospitals with nearly 24,000 employees and 5,000 affiliated physicians, and become the country’s busiest Level 1 trauma center. Wolterman also oversaw the launch of the Memorial Hermann Accountable Care Organization, the country’s most successful Medicare shared-savings

program in each of the last two years. In 2006, Wolterman initiated Memorial Hermann’s quest to become a High Reliability Organization – where zero error is the standard – and transformed the system’s cultural approach to quality, patient safety and infection control. Now, Memorial Hermann is known across the country for its exceptional quality and safety protocols and outcomes. Wolterman spearheaded the creation of the Memorial Hermann Community Benefit Corporation, which has been instrumental in building collaboration with other healthcare providers, government, business leaders and community stakeholders in identifying and delivering viable solutions to address the access to health care problem in the Greater Houston community. “I am incredibly proud of where we have come as a System. Even as I transition over the next year, our mission to expand access to care within the Houston community will continue to be a top priority,” said Wolterman. “With more than 35 years of experience in healthcare, Dan is a trusted and influential leader in this industry,” said Williams. “An asset to this organization, the City of Houston and healthcare across our nation, Dan truly inspires everyone with his tireless work to help create solutions for the uninsured and underserved in communities across our network.”

‹Rick Miller Named Champion for Free Enterprise The Texas Association of Business (TAB) honored State Representative Rick Miller (Sugar Land) with its highest award, the Champion for Free Enterprise. This marks the second consecutive session that Representative Miller has been recognized by the Association of Business. “I appreciate the Texas Association of Business’ recognition of me as a Champion for Free Enterprise. I remain focused on making Texas an even better place to do business so that all Texans have the best opportunities for themselves and their families,” said Miller. In Texas we must continue to focus on free market solutions, elevating the public and higher education systems, improving our civil justice system, and ensure that regulations are fair and predictable.” “I want to thank Representative Rick Miller for his support of the Texas business com-

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Marcin J. Bujak, M.D. Ph.D.

munity” said TAB CEO Bill Hammond. Rep. Miller knows that maintaining a healthy business climate means continued job growth and that helps keep Texas an economic leader.” The TAB represents companies from small business to the largest multi-national corporation in nearly every community in Texas. It works to improve the Texas business climate and to help make our state’s economy the strongest in the world. Representative Miller was first elected to office in 2012 to represent House District 26. He currently serves on the House Appropriations Committee and the House Public Health Committee.

‹Memorial Hermann Medical Group Welcomes Interventional Cardiologist Interventional Cardiologist Marcin J. Bujak, M.D., Ph.D., has joined Memorial Hermann Medical Group (MHMG) and will see patients at MHMG Cardiology Southwest and MHMG Sugar Land MultiSpecialty Clinic. Bujak completed his residency training at Baylor College of Medicine and his cardiology and interventional cardiology fellowship at Yale School of Medicine / Yale New Haven Hospital. He is board certified through the American Board of Medical Specialties and provides comprehensive cardiovascular care for patients ages 18 years and older. Bujak’s areas of special interest include minimally invasive treatment of coronary, peripheral arterial and venous disorders. Bujak is now seeing patients at 7737 Southwest Freeway, Suite 700, Houston, located at Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital and 17510 West Grand Parkway South, Suite 210, Sugar Land, located at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital. Appointments may be scheduled by calling 713-272-1600.

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NEW OPENINGS ‹Clancy’s Public House

(L-R): Jeff Haley, Si Environmental, LLC; Ryan Drouet, Discovery Consulting & Computer Services, Inc.; Rhonda Klekar, Microsoft; and Cliff Scherer and Craig Dubose of Discovery Consulting & Computer Services, Inc.

Clancy's is a full bar and restaurant that opened in Richmond in early October with 30+ beers available on tap and more than 50 different bottles of beer and cider. Liquor selections range from well to highend. Happy hour takes place MondayFriday, 3-7 p.m. Clancy’s also has daily drink and shot specials. The menu includes salads, sandwiches such as reubens and paninis, hamburgers, wings with homemade sauces, hand-battered chicken-fried steaks and pulled pork. Homemade desserts include whiskey pecan pie, bread pudding and cobblers. 503 FM 359, Ste. 118, Richmond 832-847-4390 clancyspubhouse.com and on Facebook

‹Central Fort Bend Chamber Hosts Working Lunch Series The Central Fort Bend Chamber hosted its monthly Working Lunch Series at Briscoe Manor in Richmond on Oct. 15. Cliff Scherer, president of Discovery Consulting & Computer Services, Inc. shared ideas on how businesses can lower technology costs, improve business efficiency, enhance marketing efforts and gain peace of mind. His presentation focused on utilizing cloud-based services. Scherer has 22 years of experience in the IT field with distinct knowledge of how small businesses work and what they specifically need from technology. The Central Fort Bend Chamber’s Working Lunch Series, held the third Thursday of each month, features topics that benefit business owners and decision makers in Central Fort Bend County. For more information, call 281-342-5464 or email ldawson@cfbca.org.

‹City of Sugar Land Award-Winning Special Events The Texas Festivals & Events Association (TFEA) and International Festivals & Events Association (IFEA) recognized Sugar Land with eight awards in the following categories: KidsFish won first place for Best Children's Program; Eggstravaganza won first place for Best Single New Sponsorship Program; Sugar Land's Memorial Day ceremony won first place for Best Event Program; Art in the Park won first place for Best Miscellaneous Printed Material; the Parks and Recreation Facebook and Twitter pages won second place for Best Social Media; Star Spangled Spectacular won second place for Best Promotional Poster; Christmas Tree Lighting won second place for Best Event Promotional Photograph; and Eggstravaganza won second place in the IFEA category for Best Single New Sponsorship Opportunity. Winners are selected from applications submitted by organizations that host festivals and events throughout the world. "Our events offer a sense of community pride," said Briana Bachemin, Sugar Land event production manager. "It's very important when planning to make sure that the atmosphere and all elements offered are enjoyable for our attendees. We want everyone to come and have a good time!" For more information about Sugar Land special events, call 281-275-2885 or visit sugarlandtx.gov.

‹Piada Italian Street Piada Italian Street Food, one of 2015’s most “buzzed about brands” according to the National Restaurant Association and Restaurant Business magazine, debuted in Sugar Land in late October. The fast casual food is inspired by ancient Rimini, a seaside community in Italy. On the menu are pasta bowls, salads and the namesake piada, which is a thincrust, handmade dough baked on a stone grill, filled with specialty items and then rolled as guests watch. Guests create their meal by choosing three signature grill items, sauces and toppings. Grill selections include herbed chicken, spicy Italian sausage and salmon prepared with lemon and olive oil. The menu also has tascas (small Italian sandwiches), sides (including tomato basil and lobster bisque soups, two kinds of hand-rolled breadsticks) and dessert. Beverages include Italian sodas, teas alongside mineral waters. A kid’s menu is also available.Open 10:45 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. 1930 Highway 6, Sugar Land 281-491-0603 mypiada.com and on Facebook

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‹Fort Bend County Public Transportation Receives Collaboration Award Fort Bend County’s Department of Transportation was honored in September by the Mamie George Community Center for its contribution to community collaboration. Paulette Shelton, director of Fort Bend County Public Transportation, was present to receive the award. Each year, the Mamie George Community Center honors organizations that have demonstrated their desire to make a positive impact by combining their resources to benefit the programs and services at the Mamie George Community Center. Upon receiving the award, Shelton conveyed the importance of providing seniors with the ability to live independently and maintain their mobility. The Fort Bend County Public Transportation department worked with the Center in developing a transportation program specific to their needs, and when developing the newly implemented Richmond/Rosenberg bus routes, collaborated with the Center, the cities, Economic Development organizations and other community stakeholders to implement routes that would best serve constituents.

‹Sugar Land Asks Citizens to Participate in Public Art Plan Survey Sugar Land wants community members of

Clay Bailey

Deb Vangellow

any age to participate in the City's first-ever Public Art Plan survey. The plan is envisioned as a comprehensive, multi-year initiative that will further define the City's vision for public art and outline efforts to achieve the City's vision during the next 10 years. The effort is identified in the City's 2014 Cultural Arts Strategic Plan and Implementation Guide. Don't know what public art is or could be? Public art can include sculptures in a park, exciting murals, creative pathways, entrances to hike-and-bike trails or even enhancements to aging infrastructure. The City will build on previous community visioning efforts with a robust public engagement process that begins with the public art survey. The community is invited to participate at sugarlandtx.gov/PublicArt. In addition to the survey, engagement efforts will include dialogue with City departments, community and cultural organizations, regional partners and individuals through oneon-one meetings, focus groups, stakeholder meetings and public forums. The surveys allow citizen participation for those with busy schedules; sharing contact information will ensure updates are provided for future forums, events and news.

Clay Bailey

Paulette Shelton

executive committee to support the T&CP mission of golf education and the development of female professionals. Along with family and friends, thank you to our LPGA colleagues and James Brown, PGA professional, and the outstanding staff and membership at Riverbend Country Club in Houston. We so appreciate your continued support and friendship,” said Vangellow. Vangellow is an educator/coach who offers wellness-based developmental programming integrated into her “student-centered” philosophy. Her numerous awards include the 2012 LPGA National Teacher Of The Year, an LPGA and Golf Digest Woman “Top 50” Teacher, a Golf Digest and GOLF Magazine “Top Regional Teacher,” and a US KIDS GOLF “Top 50 Master Kids Teacher.” She is a longtime lead instructor in the LPGA Global Education Program and was recently inducted into the UNI Athletics Hall of Fame and the UNI School Of HPELS Hall of Excellence. Vangellow can be reached online at debvangellowgolf.com.

‹Vangellow Elected as LPGA National President LPGA Master Professional Deb Vangellow has been elected as National President of the LPGA Teaching and Club Professional (TC&P) Membership for 2016-2018. After serving as the organization’s National Vice President for the past six years, she teams up with fellow LPGA Master Professional, Vice-President Elect Karen Palacios-Jansen, to lead this global, industry-leading golf teacher education pillar of the LPGA. “Karen and I are honored to be elected to these important leadership positions in the LPGA and excited to work alongside our

(L-R) Rachel Graciamaria, Kara Wuellner, Rachel Tennant, Jennifer Meeks of The Design Firm.

(L-R): Rachel Graciamaria, Kara Wuellner, and Megan Carey at the Ruby Awards.

‹The Design Firm Wins ASID Ruby Awards The American Society of Interior Designers -Texas Gulf Coast Chapter announced its 2015 Ruby Award recipients at the 40th Annual Awards ASID Gala held on Sept. 19 at the House of Blues. The Design Firm won three awards including Best Home over 3,500 square feet, Best Media/Theatre Room, and Honorable Mention for Best Home under 3,500 square feet. ASID TGCC President Letecia Ellis said, "Each honoree made a significant contribution toward the improvement of interior design; their remarkable work continues to advance our profession and impact the greater Houston Gulf Coast area." The gala was dedicated to recognizing the best in the industry. This year, over 250 entries were judged by a national panel of ASID members.

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(L-R): Eric Johnson, John Herzog, Andrew Loessin, Rusty Campbell, Steve Sams, Dan Silvestri, Doug Goff, Ramona Ridge, C.J. Snipes, Michael Cox, Tori Torres and Jennifer Johnson.

‹Johnson Development Breaks Ground on Jordan Ranch The Johnson Development Corp. has broken ground on its latest Houston-area community, Jordan Ranch. The 1,350-acre Fort Bend community is located one mile south of Interstate 10 near the Grand Parkway, giving residents easy access to the Energy Corridor, shopping and dining in Katy, and other employment and entertainment centers. Approximately 2,800 homes are planned for Jordan Ranch, and nearly 500 homesites will be available in the development’s first phase. Home prices are expected to begin in the $290,000s with sales estimated to start in the first quarter of 2016. Builders will be announced in the coming weeks. Lakes, waterways and greenbelts will give Jordan Ranch a tranquil ambiance. The master plan also calls for retail, an on-site elementary school, parks and other amenities, including a centrally-located recreation center. Students will attend schools in the Lamar CISD. The Johnson Development Corp. is celebrating 40 years of residential development and has many of the area’s best-selling communities. Houston projects include Riverstone

(the top-selling community in Texas), Cross Creek Ranch, Edgewater, Fall Creek, Grand Central Park, Harmony, Harvest Green, Imperial, Riverstone, Sienna Plantation, Tuscan Lakes, Willow Creek Farms and Woodforest. The firm also is developing Viridian in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. For more information, visit jordanranchtexas.com.

‹SLFD Launches Fire-Based Ambulance Transport The Sugar Land Fire Department's new ambulance transport service is averaging response times of just over six minutes, according to a recent report presented by Fire Chief Juan Adame. Ambulance service was launched on Jan. 1 after years of rapid growth in Sugar Land necessitated a change in EMS delivery. City leaders, including Sugar Land's medical director, identified a need to improve response times for advanced life support calls; create a patient care reporting system than can be used by paramedics in the field to ensure local hospitals have access to information prior to the arrival of patients; build on a network of assets that provide flexibility, speed and efficiency in fire and medical response; and build an emergency medical dispatch capacity that

will send appropriate personnel and equipment to medical calls. Five state-of-the-art ambulances, increased paramedic certifications and expanded dispatch operations have contributed to improved response times that are well below the target of 8 minutes for the most serious emergency calls. "This new service literally means the difference between life and death, as seconds often make a significant difference in public safety response," said Adame. "You just can't place a value on the impact of our ambulance service to ensure we remain one of the country's safest cities." Data from the report showed that more than 94 percent of patients transported by SLFD are sent to Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, St. Luke's Sugar Land Hospital and Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital. Since 2013, SLFD hired an EMS battalion chief and 13 paramedic/firefighters, trained 10 existing firefighters as paramedics, implemented a paramedic boot camp, expanded dispatch operations, purchased equipment, established patient care protocols, implemented collection systems, created a driver safety program and established patient-care protocols with area hospitals. Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015 | 123

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Now open for touring in Sienna Plantation is a new patio home model in the Rosewood neighborhood. .

‹Darling Homes Opens New Patio Home Model in Sienna’s Village of Sawmill Lake Darling Homes has opened its new model home in Sienna Plantation’s latest enclave, the Village of Sawmill Lake, at 2218 Twin Rose Drive. The model home is one of eight patio home designs Darling Homes is constructing in the Rosewood neighborhood. Darling Homes and Trendmaker Homes are the sole builders in Rosewood, the fourth patio home community to be developed in the 10,000-acre, master-planned community. Upon completion, the neighborhood will consist of 38 homes. Darling Homes’ three-bedroom designs feature studies, media rooms, island kitchens, open-concept living spaces and covered patios. Buyers can customize their homes with wine alcoves, three-car garages and outdoor kitchens. Homes range from approximately 2,200 to more than 3,000 square feet. Prices begin in the mid-$300,000s. For more information, visit siennaplantation.com.

‹FBISD Board of Trustees Approves Designs for New Schools, Updates to Master Plan The Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees has approved schematic designs for two of the district’s newest elementary schools. Approval of the preliminary designs means the selected architectural firms will continue to their final design process. Trustees approved schematic designs submitted by architectural firm PBK for Elementary School 49 in Harvest Green and Elementary School 50 in Grand Vista, submitted by Huckabee. IBI Group, selected to design Elementary School 48 in Sienna Plantation, presented schematic designs for approval at the board meeting on Sept. 28. All

three of the schools are currently scheduled to open for the 2017-2018 school year and will be funded through the 2014 Bond Program. The district expects to recommend contractors for board approval in May of 2016. Designs for the three schools were all created under recently revised FBISD Elementary Education Specifications, which were also formally adopted during the Sept. 21 meeting. These specifications will guide designs for all future elementary schools and additions, and call for schools to be built to accommodate 850 students with classrooms organized into grade level groups and clusters. Core spaces will be sized to accommodate 1,000 students so that the school can be expanded to accommodate future growth. Newly revised Elementary Educational Specifications include 21st Century Learning Concepts to encourage creativity, collaboration and critical thinking. One example is a design that will promote inspiration, play, and discovery. To incorporate this concept into future schools, libraries in the new FBISD elementary schools will be designed as a school hub and as a place to create content, rather than only a place to consume content. In addition, FBISD will incorporate “maker spaces” at all grade levels to accommodate collaborative and creative activities. During the Sept. 21 meeting, the FBISD Board of Trustees also approved 2015 updates to the District’s Facilities Master Plan. The plan, originally adopted in April 2014, set the framework for future planning based on student enrollment projection data, campus capacity and facility condition. The updated plan reflects changes to the district’s feeder pattern structure and attendance boundary changes approved in January 2015, as well as the most recent enrollment projections.

‹FBJSL, David Crockett Ms and Sugar Land Ms Raise Funds for the Cure The Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) recently accepted checks from the David Crockett Middle School (DCMS) and Sugar Land Middle School (SLMS) girls volleyball teams totaling $1,521, representing the results of their “VolleyPink Project” fundraising campaigns. These projects are the schools’ show of support for breast cancer awareness month. FBJSL is proud to partner with DCMS,

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SLMS and other area organizations to raise funds for the FBJSL Breast Cancer Fund, established in 2009 to further the community’s fight against breast cancer. Through the fund, FBJSL works with the American Cancer Society in an effort to provide financial support for programs and services designed to provide access to breast cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, and an improved quality of life for Fort Bend County breast cancer patients. The “VolleyPink Project” is an annual fundraising event for the players, coaches, staff and families of DCMS and SLMS. The teams and coaches collect donations and change for several weeks leading up to October, breast cancer awareness month. Any school, business or organization interested in partnering with FBJSL to raise funds to further breast cancer treatment, prevention and awareness is encouraged to contact the league at info@fbjsl.com or 281-636-6272. For more information, visit fbjsl.com.

‹OakBend Medical Center Receives Komen Grant Susan G. Komen Houston recently presented OakBend Medical Center with a community grant of $30,000 for funding that will provide mammogram screenings and diagnostic imaging for underserved patients in Fort Bend County. “OakBend Medical Center is an extraordinary grant recipient organization that works endlessly to assist local women and men who are in great need of breast health services,” said Adriana M. Higgins, Ed. D., executive director of Susan G. Komen Houston. “Thanks to the devoted fundraisers in the Bayou City who support our fight to end breast cancer forever, we are able to fund breast health services and programs like this in the seven counties we serve.” According to OakBend’s Radiology Manager, Mary Chambless, “Komen-Houston has once again awarded OakBend Medical Center with a grant that will be used to provide screening mammograms and diagnostic imaging for underserved patients in the Fort Bend County community. We partner with Access Health, who screen the patients and then schedule the patients to have their imaging done here at OakBend. We have been very fortunate to have been the recipient of yearly grants from Komen-Houston.”

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Margaret Leger

Ashvin K. Dewan, M.D.

‹Lamar CISD's Mail Center Supervisor Honored The U.S. Postal Service’s Postal Customer Council has named Lamar CISD’s Mail Center Supervisor Margaret Leger as the 2015 Mail Center Manager of the Year for the Houston area. The award was presented at the National Postal Customer Council Day event held Sept. 22. Jean Lovejoy, who was the Postmaster for the Houston area until recently, wrote that Leger’s leadership has been outstanding. “You walk and live by the mission statement you created for the Lamar CISD Mail Center with its commitment to providing a variety of postal services. The center provides excellent service and consultation to support Lamar CISD communications throughout its campuses and across the community. Houston PCC is privileged to have you on their team,” Lovejoy wrote.

and assistant team physician of major league baseball’s Baltimore Orioles. In 2014, he earned the school’s Most Outstanding Resident Research Award for his work in orthopedic surgery. Dewan most recently completed a sports medicine fellowship, including training in the latest arthroscopic surgical techniques, at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, where he served as assistant team physician for the NFL’s St. Louis Rams and the NHL’s St. Louis Blues, as well as the university’s athletic teams. “We are thrilled that Dr. Dewan has chosen to come home to Fort Bend and begin his practice at Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine,” said Timothy Sitter, M.D., knee and shoulder surgeon with Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine. “He already has a tremendous amount of hands-on sports medicine experience in both professional and college athletics and his academic and medical backgrounds are outstanding.” To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dewan or another Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine physician, visit houstonmethodist.org/orthopedics or call 281-690-4678.

‹Dr. Ashvin K. Dewan Joins Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine The physicians and staff at Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine have announced that Ashvin K. Dewan, M.D., has joined the practice and is now available to see patients. Dewan – the 2001 valedictorian at Hightower High School Medical Science Academy in Missouri City – is returning to his hometown in the Fort Bend area as an orthopedic surgeon with a focus on sports-related injuries and chronic conditions. In 2005, Dewan graduated from Rice University with a B.S. degree in bioengineering. Following his 2009 graduation from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, he completed his internship and a residency in orthopedic surgery at Johns Hopkins University Hospital and School of Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland. During his time at Johns Hopkins, Dewan served as chief resident of orthopedic surgery

Professional Remodeler magazine presented the national awards for outstanding service and performance by a remodelers council. Lisa Pepitone, director of membership at GHBA, was honored as the Outstanding Council Coordinator for advising and guiding the remodelers council leadership. Pepitone is key to the health of the group’s finances and membership, organizing programs that make the remodelers council one of the largest in the nation. In the public relations category of the CADREs, the Remodelers Council of the GHBA took home the honors for their work to combat remodeling scams and educate home owners following the floods that devastated Houston in 2015. Accepting the award for the Houston Remodelers Council was its public relations chairman, Amy Ahlbrand Robinson with the Fort Bend Publishing Group. The CADRE is the NAHB Remodelers’ highest national award for work at the local level. The awards, judged by members of NAHB Remodelers’ leadership, are presented each year to local remodelers councils and individuals whose work at a local remodelers council exemplifies the best practices of the remodeling industry. For more information about remodeling, visit ghba.org or nahb.org/remodel.

‹Multi-Family Units Removed from Zoning Application

Lisa Pepitone

Amy Robinson

‹Remodelers Council at Greater Houston Builders Association Wins National Awards The Greater Houston Builders Association (GHBA) Remodelers Council was honored with a national award, the Council Award for Demonstrating Remodeling Excellence (CADREs), in two categories from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Remodelers. The awards – known in the housing industry as the CADREs – were announced during NAHB Remodelers annual awards presentation at the 2015 Remodeling Show in Chicago on Oct. 1. NAHB Remodelers and

The City of Sugar Land announced on Oct. 27 that Newland Communities removed the controversial 900 multi-family housing units from its planned development application for Tract 5, located at U.S. 59 and University Boulevard. This followed the City’s Oct. 16 announcement that it was “suspending further processing of the application as it does not meet the requirements of the Development Code.” A letter from Ted Nelson, Newland’s central region president, said in part, “We have clearly heard the concerns expressed by the citizens of Sugar Land and wish to abide by these concerns."

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(Front row, l-r): Daisy Yeung, CFO Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital; Angela Rentfro, Luke Rentfro, and daughter Addison; Darla Farmer, Hope For Three founder; Malisha Patel, COO MHSLH; Leslie Norman, VP and CNO, MHSLH; (back row): Greg Haralson, CEO MHSLH; Dr. William Riley, CMO MHSLH; Courtney Diepraam, director of business development, MHSLH; and Matt Jackson, executive director. Hope For Three.

hOpe FOr three cOngratuLateS cOmmunity partner, memOriaL hermann Sugar Land hOSpitaL Hope For Three Autism Advocates congratulates its community partner, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital (MHSLH), for being a finalist for the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, which recognizes U.S. organizations in the health care sector for performance excellence. The Rentfro family, one of Hope For Three’s “ausome” families, spoke at the closing ceremonies for the week-long national site examination at the hospital. During the closing presentation, Angela Rentfro shared a personal story about the exceptional care that her 5-year-old son, Drake, was given during an emergency room visit to Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital. This heartwarming moment exemplified the Family Caring for Family culture. Hope For Three is proud to partner with Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital to support its mission of reaching one child, one family, one community by creating awareness and providing support to families living with autism spectrum disorder. For more information, call 281-245-0640 or visit HopeForThree.org.

Sugar Land OpenS FirSt univerSaLLy acceSSibLe pLaygrOund The City of Sugar Land recently opened its first universally accessible playground at First Colony Athletic Park. A ribbon cutting ceremony included city officials, the Sugar Land Legacy Foundation and members of the Dream League. This unique 5,500 square foot playground serves as a place where all children can play together and foster friendships in a welcoming and safe environment and includes new "inclusive" equipment with longer platforms and

ramps. Other amenities include bonded rubber surfacing that makes it easier for wheelchairs and children with disabilities who need a more even surface to access the equipment. The city worked with the Dream League to identify appropriate improvements at the park and the nearby baseball complex. The Dream League was established in 2007 as a challenger division of First Colony Little League to enable children with physical and/or intellectual disabilities from all over Fort Bend County to enjoy the game of baseball. Funds were raised through a capital campaign launched by the Sugar Land Legacy Foundation, a group that collected $200,000 from a variety of private donors, granting organizations, and businesses. Combined with a contribution from the Sugar Land 4B Corporation, a total of $400,000 was collected. Donors included The Jabez Foundation, The George Foundation, The Fort Bend Junior Service League, Sugar Land Rotary Club, The Sugar Land Skeeters Baseball Foundation, Paul and Manmeet Likhari, Don and Celia Olson, the Rotary Club of Fort Bend County, Minute Maid, the National Recreation and Park Association, Longhorn Steakhouse, Macy's First Colony, MOMS Club of Sugar Land North, Chloe and Tayte Choudhury, and Tanches Global Management.

Sugar Land Legacy Foundation board members, members of Sugar Land City Council, city management and the players and coaches from the Dream League were in attendance at the new playground ribbon-cutting ceremony.

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Principal J.J. Roberts and Volleyball Coach Ashley Dedmon (back center, l-r) with volleyball team members.

FOrt bend iSd StudentS and StaFF ObServe breaSt cancer awareneSS mOnth In support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and to honor family members and friends who are battling the disease, Fort Bend ISD students and staff took part in various events and activities throughout October. FBISD Administration Building employees donned pink attire and carried “I walk for…” signs as they walked around the building to support those near and dear to their hearts. The District’s Health and P.E. division sponsored the event and more than 30 employees participated. Baines Middle School kicked off the month-long observation with its annual Lynn Armstrong Breakfast, held in memory of former Blue Ridge Elementary School principal Dr. Lynn Armstrong. The girls volleyball team welcomed guests and provided them with helpful resources. The school also hosted onsite mammograms by Mammosafe on Oct. 22, and a Breast Cancer Walk and Pink Out Day on Oct. 30. “We host these events each year to help bring light to the ugly disease and its effects on both women and men,” said Baines Middle School Volleyball Coach Ashley Dedmon. “We provide health literacy to families throughout the community so that they can be more knowledgeable about the nutrition, environment and genetic factors that play a part in how breast cancer can occur and develop. This is not just a month of pink, but a lifelong lesson on becoming health literate.” To show their support of individuals affected by breast cancer, Dulles Elementary School students and staff held a “Blow a Wish for a Cure” on Oct. 30. The group dressed in pink (to support breast cancer awareness) and lavender (for all other types of cancer).

caFb hOnOrS LegiSLatOrS with texaS caSa big vOiceS FOr LittLe texanS awardS Child Advocates of Fort Bend, one of the 72 local CASA programs in Texas that recruit, screen and train volunteers to advocate for children in court, honored Sen. Lois Kolkhorst and Rep. John Zerwas with Texas CASA Big Voices for Little Texans awards on Oct. 30 at the agency’s Davis George Center in Rosenberg. This award recognizes legislators for their outstanding leadership and dedication to improving the child protection system and ensuring our most vulnerable children’s voices were heard at the Capitol during the 84th Legislative Session. "These legislators are strong advocates for CASA and are both very deserving of this recognition,” said Ruthanne Mefford, CEO of Child Advocates of Fort Bend. Kolkhorst’s first session as a state senator was as impressive as her last as a state representative. She authored critical legislation, SB 830, which creates an independent ombudsman for children and youth in foster care housed within the Health and Human Service’s Commission’s (HHSC) ombudsman’s office. Zerwas is a leading voice on health and education issues. He sponsored SB 354, which moves administration of funding for CASA and Children’s Advocacy Centers to HHSC from the OAG. Additionally, as chair of the House Higher Education Committee, he helped advance HB 3748, the foster children education bill, through committee at a crucial point in the session. Kolkhorst and Zerwas are two of a dozen legislators Texas CASA has chosen to honor for being legislative champions and leaders this past session in partnership with the local CASA programs in their districts. "Texas CASA honors these men and women who are leading the way in helping us push the best interests of children to the forefront of our legislative process," said Texas CASA CEO Vicki Spriggs.

(L-R): Child Advocates of Fort Bend CEO Ruthanne Mefford; Larissa Plunto, Fort Bend district director in Sen. Lois Kolkhorst’s office; Rep. John Zerwas; and Texas CASA CEO Vicki Spriggs.

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Stacy Tao Uses Artistic Talent to Give to Others photo By jia li

Generosity and caring are major aspects of her identity

Stacy Tao

By Mara Soloway tacy Tao is appreciative of all she has been blessed with in her life and has for many years been using her creative talents to give to those in need. Because she has been an artist for 12 years, she publish a book that features 72 of her works of art selected from more than 400 choices. She used the book, along with an art exhibit of her and her classmate’s work, to raise money for two organizations. The Stacy Tao Charity Sale and Art Exhibit in September raised $4,000. The event in Houston was attended by dignitaries from U.S. and China. Houston’s Mayor, Annise Parker, proclaimed it “Stacy Tao Day.” Although this 17-year-old senior at Clements High School is confident about her talents and abilities, her attitude is not one of conceit. “I have this talent and can use it to fulfill my own dream of being an artist and to help others,” she said. One recipient of the art sale proceeds is the Anhui Association of Texas, a cultural

Her work “Silk Road.”

society that promotes social and educational opportunites for newcomers from Anhui province in China. Stacy’s mother, Ning Cheng, is past president. Event funds will go toward efforts to help children in Anhui pursue an education. The other recipient is the Against Malaria Foundation, which Stacy learned about from her Clements Red Cross Club activities. The proceeds given to AMF will go toward antimalarial nets for children. Stacy uses her talents for the greater good in other ways, too. She designed the mural and painted faces to raise funds at the International Festival at Clements that benefited Doctors Without Borders. She has spent the last several Thanksgiving Days at the George R. Brown Convention Center with the Clements Red Cross Club helping distribute food, clothes and gifts. Stacy shares her talents with her classmates them if they ask. She sees “mentor” as too lofty a description of her actions. “I like to think that is what friends do,” she said.

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Stacy recently began including computer programming and digital and multimedia to her artistic endeavors. “I see computer science as using creative problem-solving skills,” she said, adding that it must be in her genes — both her parents are programmers. Stacy’s work is well regarded: She has earned more than 15 awards for her artwork since 2010. Her painting “Southern Heritage” was auctioned at the 2015 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo for $10,000 and she won the Rodeo Art Show Gold Medal. Her dance performances have also won her recognition. Her life drawings expressively capture form and posture. Her paintings show a mix of themes — nature and beauty and love, landscape, cityscapes. Many have Texas and southern living themes. The reins of saddled horses in a field are held by a young man standing in between them in “Going Home.” The face of the young man in “Daily Prayer” is partly hidden by his hat; he looks

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down while his horse looks ahead. “Silk Road” is a self portrait. “This painting draws from the spirit of Chinese folkloric dance that bridges the gap between my western upbringing and Asian roots. Despite having been born and raised in the United States, I have a deep desire to stay connected with my background,” Stacy said. The Silk Road was the physical and economical connection between the western civilizations and eastern empires — a collision of culture that parallels Stacy’s experience as an American-born Chinese. “Even so, the smoky atmosphere may be my subliminal uncertainty and fear of losing that connection, which I see happen to my friends as they become less familiar with their own backgrounds.” Stacy’s digital and multimedia works have more of a visual edge to them, especially “Lifeanddeath” and “Ambivalence.” She has worked hard, becoming a very good artist through her conscientious efforts and practice. “Through imitation, observation and self-motivation, I have gained control over line, shape, color and value,” she states. She wants to dispel the notion that someone goes into art because it is somehow easier than other pursuits. “Many people underestimate the diligence and motivation needed to become an artist,” she said. Art is definitely work. Donna Reedy, AP studio art teacher at Clements, sees Stacy as an innovatively creative thinker. “We teach students to fully utilize both sides of the brain at Clements. Stacy is a higher level problem solver and an innovative thinker. She gets this from her math, science, technology, AND ART classes,” she said. This summer, Stacy had several fulfilling experiences that brought her in contact with respected artists and, just as importantly, introduced them to her. She earned a scholarship from the Houston Rodeo committee to attend a four-week Western Art Academy in July in Kerrville, pursing sculpture and painting; one of her sculptures was purchased by a camp sponsor, and a painting also sold. One of the teachers recommended Stacy for a week of classes in Wyoming sponsored by the

Susan Kathleen Black Foundation. Also this summer, she attended Columbia University's summer art camp. One of her accomplishments was a seemingly exact recreation of John Singer Sargent’s work, “Fountain.” Artist Miguel Cardenas, who is a visiting critic for the undergraduate visual art majors, was quite impressed. He told Stacy that no one would

“Many people underestimate the diligence and motivation needed to become an artist.” — Stacy Tao be able to tell the difference if her work replaced the original in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Among those who have taught and influenced Stacy is the woman who has shown her by example how to be so generous — her mother, who moved to

Houston 20+ years ago from Anhui. Stacy has seen her mother’s efforts to help those from Anhui who arrive in the U.S. and also to provide resources to those in need in the province. Ning is proud that her daughter is so passionate about her pursuits – art, dance and technology. “With a child, the personality is important, not specifically what things they practice. If she is generous and kind and focused, then we the parents have done our job.” While Stacy has been strongly influenced by her family and teachers, this self-assured and generous teen has also inspired many. Carl Stockman, her middle school art teacher, is one. “Stacy always gave an outstanding effort. I’m very grateful to have been able to get to know Stacy — she truly is a beautiful soul,” he said. To learn more about this remarkable young woman and see examples of her artwork, visit stacytao.com.l

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90 percent of the semifinalists are expected to attain finalist standing, and more than half of the finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar title. Merit Scholar designees are selected on the basis of their skills, accomplishments, and potential for success in rigorous college studies, without regard to gender, race, ethnic origin or religious preference.

(Back row, l-r): Cindy Hebert Layman, Patricia Hebert McKnight, Shelley Hebert Hannes; (front row): Judge and Pat Hebert.

OAKBEND MEDICAL CENTER RAISES FUNDS FOR NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE UNIT EXPANSION OakBend Medical Center’s fundraiser, Patchwork of Life Beautiful Beginnings, raised over $275,000 this year. The monies will be used to expand the hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), a Level II NICU designed to care for babies born as early as 28 weeks. With the increase in births, the unit needs to expand from its current ability to accommodate eight babies to being able to accommodate 12. Dr. Courtney DeJesso, the newest Neonatologist at OakBend Medical Center, said, “This is a great hospital that truly has a sense of a community. I'm sure that all of you see the growth, and with that growth comes lots of families and lots of babies. I know that it means so much to these families to be able to have their babies stay here. This NICU needs, not only the bed space to expand, but all the equipment and staff that goes along with it in order to provide all of that great NICU care for our families.” Patchwork of Life Beautiful Beginnings was held at Safari Texas with Joe and Doris Gurecky serving as this year’s honorary chairs. Pat Hebert was the honoree. The cochairs of the event were Dr. May Tape and Beth Wolf. Pat Hebert’s three daughters, Cindy Hebert Layman, Shelley Hebert Hannes and Patricia Hebert McKnight, were also on hand to pay a special tribute to their mother, who has served as the gala chair of the hospital’s fundraising event for the past two years. According to Joe Freudenberger, CEO of OakBend Medical Center, “The community has always been extremely generous in supporting our fundraising efforts and their year was no exception. The monies raised will allow us to expand the NICU and assure that we are able to help the babies that need to spend time in the neonatal intensive care unit.” For more information about OakBend Medical Center’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, visit oakbendmedcenter.org.

Author Callista Gingrich and Ellis the Elephant with (l -r) sixth-graders Sarah Williams, Lillie Matta, Maya Lenderman, Grace Stewart, and Katelyn Benoit.

CALVARy EPiSCoPAL PREP HEARS AuTHoR CALLiSTA giNgRiCH Calvary Episcopal Preparatory students, along with those from Shady Oak Christian School, were honored to have author Callista Gingrich read her new book, Christmas in America. Gingrich and Ellis the Elephant read their story and also signed books for students and answered a wide variety of the students’ questions. Calvary also had a special surprise for the author, as the school’s lyrical dancers performed an interpretive dance to “Let Freedom Ring” by Abby Anderson. The students had been preparing the number for their Veteran’s Day program on Nov. 11 and were honored to showcase the debut of their performance for Gingrich.

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Hasnain Ali

Jerry Yang

LoNgHoRN Duo NAMED NATioNAL MERiT SEMiFiNALiSTS George Ranch High School’s Hasnain Ali and Jerry yang are semifinalists in the National Merit Scholarship program. The two students now have the opportunity to compete for National Merit Scholarships, Corporate-Sponsored Merit Scholarship Awards and College-Sponsored Merit Scholarship Awards. To become semifinalists, the students competed with more than 1.5 million high school juniors in nearly 22,000 high schools across the country by taking the PSAT/National Merit Qualifying Test. The nationwide pool of semifinalists represents less than one percent of current U.S. high school seniors. More than

AuSTiN HigH SCHooL'S FiRST SENioR CoLLEgE AND CAREER DAy - The Austin High School College and Career Center (CCC) provides a variety of resources for college and career planning. The CCC, headed by Laura Jeffery, is a place where students can come to obtain information on two- and four-year colleges and universities, military and technical school information, testing and test preparation, financial aid and scholarships, career possibilities and college majors descriptions. In collaboration with the AHS academic counselors, Jeffery created Austin High School’s First Senior College and Career Day on Oct. 14. The day began with rotations through three stations: Sam Houston and HCC Mobile Bus, College representatives assisting with Apply Texas and Common Applications and College Essays, and a video presentation on “How Social Media Affects College Admissions and College Admissions: Can I Get Accepted?” After the students visited each station, they all met in the auditorium for a panel discussion answering student’s questions regarding various careers. The panel included Ameer Patel, pharmacist at CVS; Angela Vargas, nurse at Houston Methodist Hospital; Ryan Taylor, financial advisor at Merrill Lynch; Rio, KRIO Boom 92; J Mac, KBXX-FM 97.9 The Box; Jilian Davidson, engineer at Nalco Champion; Susan Heins, nurse; and Kamisha Mickey, attorney at Williams, Refuge and Mickey. Jeffery had this to say about the event, “This event was amazing for our students. It was just a small step that we will continue to take throughout the year to encourage that college and career readiness is a process to ensure continued student success. We encourage our students to focus on college and career readiness daily.” Through events like this, the AHS CCC continues to work on building a comprehensive college-going culture for all students.

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(L-R): Ethan Spendlove, Matheus Meneses and Tyler Echard.

THREE MiSSouRi CiTy TEENS EARN PRESTigiouS EAgLE SCouT AWARD - Three Missouri City teens, Ethan Spendlove (17), Matheus Meneses (18) and Tyler Echard (15) were recently awarded the Eagle Scout designation at a Court of Honor conducted at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Sienna Plantation. Friends, family and troop leaders attended the celebration. The teens belong to Troop 395 of the Greater Sam Houston Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America. Spendlove is a senior at Ridge Point High School. His Eagle Scout project was to build a shade canopy using donated and recycled materials for the Seeds of Inspiration Community Garden. People gather for gardening, yoga classes and a produce co-op at the garden. “As a Boy Scout, I enjoyed camping and learning outdoor survival skills,” said Spendlove, who earned 29 merit badges on the path to Eagle Scout. Meneses, a senior at Elkins High School, earned 21 merit badges. For his Eagle Scout project, he built a corral trap for hogs at TexasAgrilife, a nature preserve, using metal rods and wire meshwork that will contain the hogs in order to safely remove them from the property. “Scouting has given me training in many different ways, from leadership skills, time management, communication skills, and setting goals,” Meneses said. Echard is a sophomore at Ridge Point High School. Building bat houses at Camp Sienna was his Eagle Scout project, which benefited the people and children that work and play there by lowering the mosquito population. Echard, who earned 23 merit badges said, “I have learned many leadership and architectural skills. I believe that all boys should take scouting because it can build good career/job habits for their future.” Eagle Scout is the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouting program. Since the first Boy Scout earned his Eagle award in 1912, the distinction has been earned by more than two million young men. Requirements include earning at least 21 badges and demonstrating ideals of service and leadership. Fewer than five percent of Boy Scouts nationwide attain this illustrious rank.

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Stephen F. Austin High School football team with Breast Care Navigator Maria Socci.

HigH SCHooL FooTBALL TEAMS DoNATE BREAST CANCER SHiRTS - Two Fort Bend ISD high school football squads recently made generous donations to the Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s breast cancer patients. Football athletes from Clements and Stephen F. Austin donated a number of postmastectomy, pocketed shirts. The shirts are specially designed for the unique needs of women who have undergone a mastectomy; they will be given to patients over the next year. “All of us at the Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital admire the selflessness, generosity and kindness that these young men have demonstrated through their donation,” said Maria Socci, breast care navigator. “Their donation will enable us to provide these special shirts to our patients free of charge as a show of support from the community for their fight against breast cancer.” Clements Head Coach Keith Knowles began the effort three years ago, when his team captains wanted to use a portion of the money they raised to buy post-mastectomy shirts rather than more football equipment. “I always try and teach our players the importance of giving back to the community,” said Knowles. “We are fortunate to have a great deal of support, and this is one way we can pass it along. I am amazed every day at

the character and quality of our young men.” Austin Head Coach Dan Schreiber said he was impressed when his team captains suggested they use some of their funding for the post-mastectomy shirts. “The players’ willingness to make a dona-

tion like this demonstrates a great deal of maturity and compassion,” he said. “These young men recognize that fighting cancer is a difficult task, and they wanted to do their part to make it a little bit easier for women fighting breast cancer in our community.”

Clements High School football team with Breast Care Navigator Maria Socci.

132 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

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Alesondra Cruz

Katy Rodriguez

Devin Lemaster

Joseph Saad

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been named National Hispanic Scholars. George Ranch High School’s Alesondra Cruz and Katy Rodriguez, and Foster High School’s Devin Lemaster and Joseph Saad and Terry High School’s Greg Alvarez all qualified for the program. The National Hispanic Recognition Program (NHRP) identifies academically outstanding Hispanic/Latino high school students. Each year, the NHRP honors about 5,000 of the highest-scoring students from more than 250,000 Hispanic/Latino juniors who take the PSAT/NMSQT. These students are from the United States, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, the Mariana Islands and the Marshall Islands, as well as U.S. citizens attending schools abroad. Although the NHRP does not provide a financial reward, being named is an important academic recognition, and this achievement should be indicated on college applications. NHRP honors outstanding students and makes the information available to subscribing colleges and universities that are particularly interested in communicating with academically exceptional Hispanic/Latino students.

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DVICIO. Due to the persistence of Chong, DVICIO made Austin High School a major stop on their ”Lunch Time U.S. Tour.” Chong said, "Students have made global connections through music and language learning while creating memories that will last a lifetime. To witness the excitement on the students faces and hear them using the language was incredible. It was a very special day."

EVELYN SMITH

JENNIFER CHONG

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(L-R): Past Book Project chair Ann Thompson, Mission Glen Elementary School principal Kair Bruhn, Book Project chair Sue Bridges. DVICIO get their homecoming mums from Austin students (l-r) Allie Miller, Luis Gonzalvo, Nacho Gotor, Shravya Arra, Kriti Korula, Alberto Missis, Andrés Ceballos, Alex Paul, Shaheen Khimani and Martin Ceballos.

MISSION GLEN ELEMENTARY STUDENTS RECEIVE BOOKS FROM RETIRED EDUCATORS - On Sept. 9, the

LUNCH WITH DVICIO AT AUSTIN HIGH SCHOOL

TRTA local unit, Fort Bend Harris Retired Educators (FBHRE), presented over 325 new books to Mission Glen Elementary students in grades Pre-K, K, first and second grades. The Children’s Book Project is a state wide service activity carried out through Texas Retired Teachers Association. FBHRE will continue to collect books to present new books to Mission Glen Elementary third, fourth and fifth grade students next spring.

DVICIO is a band of five friends who accomplished overnight stardom in Spain with their hit single “Paraiso.” The group is hoping to be the next pop-rock sensation with a combination of talent, dedication and of course, good looks. The group’s talent is apparent with their full band ensemble and song writing skills. Their passion for music is evident and the group is now focused on taking the United States by storm with their recent “Lunch Time U.S. Tour.” As part of this tour, DVICIO visited Austin High School on Oct. 19 for an amazing opportunity for the students and for the group. Andres said,” This is one of those days that you will never forget.” When the group arrived in the auditorium at Austin High School, it looked like a Texas homecoming football pep rally – something the band had never seen before. The drumline was playing and the cheerleaders and Austin Angels dance team had made a tunnel from them to run through on their way to the stage. While on the stage, DVICIO was treated to another Texas tradition, the homecoming garter. The event was organized by Jennifer Chong, AP Spanish teacher and Adrian Rodriguez, the choir teacher. The benefits of the band’s visit were exposing the students to the music and also the Spanish students having an opportunity to meet the group as part of their preparation for the cultural portion of the AP Spanish test. The AP Spanish Language and Culture

course has been designed to provide advanced high school students with a rich opportunity to study the language and culture of the Spanish-speaking world. Chong took the task of teaching Spanish to a new level last year when through multimedia (in particular Google Hangout), she connected the Spanish classes at Austin with

Coach Ricky Tullos receives his award.

134 | Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015

GEORGE RANCH LONGHORN'S TULLOS NAMED HONDA COACH OF THE WEEK - George Ranch High School head football coach Ricky Tullos earned Houston area Honda’s Coach of the Week honors as the Longhorns continue their undefeated season. A representative of Fort Bend Honda, along with television station KUBE, presented Coach Tullos with the check and a trophy.

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Marching Band and Angels Dance Team after winning finals.

AHS MARCHING BAND WINS LONESTAR MARCHING CONTEST - The Austin HS Bulldog Marching Band and Angels Dance Team was named Grand Champion at the Lone Star Preview Marching Contest on Oct. 17 at Woodforest Bank Stadium in Conroe. Competing against 22 other bands, the AHS Band and Angels scored first place overall (in preliminary competition and finals competition) and won the captions for Outstanding Visual Performance and Outstanding General Effect. The Bulldog Band finished three points ahead of second place, Lafayette High School from Lafayette, Louisiana. This is the second time in a row AHS has won this contest having come in fifth place in 2013. The title of this year’s show was “Home of the Brave” and featured “The Pacific” by Hans Zimmer, Symphony No. 2 by Samuel Barber, Amber Waves by Morton Gould and Symphony for Organ and Orchestra by Aaron Copland. The awarding winning show this year was powerful and emotional, reaching the audience like never before. Other FBISD bands competing included Clements, Dulles, Kempner, and Travis with Clements and Kempner also making finals. Band Director Bob Chreste has been telling the students all season, “You must believe that anything is possible with hard work and dedication.” The commitment to excellence from the students was rewarded with another win. For more information or to support the AHS band, go to sfaband.org.

(L-R): Natalie Cadenhead, LCE physical education teacher; students Doris Zaki, Laurel Kelley, Milan Drummond and Clark Hewett; and Claire Rider of B.I.G. Love Cancer Care Services.

LEXINGTON CREEK ES STUDENTS SHOW “B.I.G. LOVE” FOR CANCER PATIENTS - Lexington Creek Elementary School students recently participated in the B.I.G. Love Fun Run/Walk, sponsored by B.I.G. Love Cancer Care Services, and collected nearly $5,000 in donations to support cancer kids and their families at Texas Children’s Hospital. Through B.I.G. Love Cancer Care Services, cancer kids and their families receive basic necessities and personalized care to help make their hospital stay more enjoyable. Program services include weekly wish list, new diagnosis bags, holiday gift baskets, catered meals, parking passes/gas cards, cancer clinic toy closet, family kitchen supplies and grief support services. This is the first year of Lexington Creek Elementary School’s involvement in the Fun Run/Walk. “To kick off our participation in the Fun Run/Walk, we showed students videos of cancer patients sharing their personal stories,” said Natalie Cadenhead, LCE physical education

teacher and Fun/Run event coordinator. “The stories touched the hearts of our students and they gave their full support.” The LCE students took part in the Fun Run/Walk during their outclass time. They came prepared with water bottles, healthy snacks and applications of sunscreen and bug spray. To keep students motivated, teachers played party music and lined the school track with inspirational poster boards that read “You got this!” “Way to go!” “Super Job!” and “You are Awesome!” “We appreciate Lexington Creek Elementary School students for being so supportive of B.I.G. Love Cancer Care Services,” said Claire Rider, director of development. To reward the students for their participation, LCE awarded the 20 students who raised the most money with a pizza party, and the class with the most participation in each grade level received a Kona Ice party. To support B.I.G. Love Cancer Care Services, visit biglovecancercare.org. Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes | December 2015 | 135

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