UpClose Magazine by Jay Ford

UpClose Magazine

February 2011 ~ $1.95

Home Court

Dreams Can Come True

Donnielle Carter

ocal athlete, Courtland Harrison has competed in team sports for as long as he can remember. When he discovered wrestling he said, “I just loved the sport. I can be a part of a team and yet personally challenge myself as an individual competitor.” Early on Court dreamed of wrestling for a Division 1 Big Ten University. He credits his family for inspiring him and encouraging him every step of the way. His mother, Jill Byler-Harrison, no stranger to competition, won the World Championship in Powerlifting for NASA, the Natural Athlete Strength Association when he was only 6 months old. Court’s skill and dedication to wrestling earned him the position of Captain on The Kinkaid School’s wrestling team. It was Kinkaid’s Coach, Mark Pearson who called in a favor with a former University of Michigan wrestling teammate to arrange training sessions with Joe Warren, Mixed Marshall Artist and Greco-Roman World Champion. As his skills improved, Court found himself traveling more to compete with more

experienced wrestlers. Placing at Nationals 4 years ago strengthened his resolve to wrestle for a Division 1 Big Ten University. With the support and encouragement of his family, his Uncle Troy, and Coach Joe Warren (who has become just like family and continues to train him); Court has competed across the United States, earning several National titles. He has lived in Ohio and Colorado, training at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs. This year, he realized his

dreams of competing in wrestling with a Division 1 Big Ten University. The National Wrestling Coaches Association’s Coach of the Year, Coach Barry Davis said, “We would love to have Court wrestle for us at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.” We asked Court what kept him going. He said, “My mom talks to me all the time about staying focused and being disciplined. My family has been a great motivation for me; they have always been there to lead me to the next level. I feel so lucky to be at the University of Wisconsin-Madison with the support of the coaching staff and fellow teammates.” Jill Byler-Harrison and her husband, Glenn Gagnon, have been training and inspiring

people of all ages and skills; professionals, amateurs, and homemakers. Jill earned her certification in personal training from Rice University and has 23 years experience in weight training and nutrition; and Glenn, with a degree in Health and Kinesiology from Texas A&M, has 23 years experience in weight training and nutrition. Their active healthy lifestyle has inspired many people through the years, including their two sons, Courtland and David. If you feel you need a little help achieving your dreams—no matter how big or small, then The Fitness Retreat is for you. The Fitness Retreat is set among shade trees in a beautiful countryside setting, just minutes away from anywhere in Fort Bend County. This state-ofthe-art gym with luxury spa services is a true inspiration for the athlete in all of us. Let the team at The Fitness Retreat help you to find your enthusiasm and achieve your dreams! 281-499-6067 1206 A Hagerson Rd Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.thefitnessretreat.com

Get

TurnedOn! Drop one of these in any room of your house.

Immediately have access to practically any music from anywhere.

Set Your Music Free

Celebrate.

Sarah Warburton

one are the days when you need a CD to play a song. Now you can listen to whatever you like in any room of your house. No, you don’t need to struggle with complicated wires or suffer through delayed downloads. What’s the secret? We asked our local home theater experts, Richard Machemehl and Scott Crain of Home Theater Evolutions how they set the music free. Imagine having any song you own—or any song in the world—available in any room in your house. Richard says, “We’re really pleased with the new Sonos music system. It uses a wireless mesh network and ZonePlayers to make it easy for you to play your own music from your iPod or CD player, your MP3s or iTunes library, online music providers like Pandora, Rhapsody, Napster, or Sirius…as well as over 100,000 radio stations, shows and podcasts in every room of your house. Free of charge. The mesh wireless network gives the range and performance you need for fantastic sound without any loss of audio quality.” Listening to your favorite song or your favorite radio station (from anywhere in the world) has never been so simple! Scott says, “We really prefer solutions that deliver great results while making life easier. Setting up the Sonos system is amazingly straightforward. You’ll plug the ZoneBridge or a player into your router…and then it’s just a matter of plugging the other players in. You can choose between ZonePlayers that work with your existing stereo system, ones that have an amplifier and work with your existing speakers, and ones that have both an amplifier and speakers. No matter how many ZonePlayers

you add to your home, you can control them all from a touch screen controller for Mac or PC. And if you have an iPhone or iPad, download a free app and they’ll work as Sonos music controllers, too.” Maybe you want to listen to the BBC in the kitchen, have Jazz playing in the study, and have rock playing in your son’s bedroom. You can control the music (and the volume!) in every room with the touch of a finger. Want every zone playing the same song for a party? Couldn’t be easier…and you can still adjust the volume in each room. Richard says, “I think our customers will be as amazed by the options, the ease of use and most of all the affordability of the Sonos music system. It offers exactly what we look for when we choose to include a product here at Home Theater Evolutions—excellent performance at a reasonable price. Come in to our showroom…we’d love to show it off!” Set your music free with a music system that offers the same personalized service you’ve always gotten from Home Theater Evolutions. Scott says, “We want to make life easier for you. That’s why we offer free in-home consultations, up-front pricing, and personalized attention. Tell us what you want and we’ll put together a package that fits your goals, your space, and your budget!” Home Theater Evolutions 281-980-2300 3157 Highway 6 at Williams Trace www.htevo.com

he buzzer goes off and your body reacts instantaneously: you’re moving – the race has begun! You’re focused on one thought – to get to your final target. You move your legs faster to get there on time. You reach your destination but only the first leg of the race has been completed. Pushing aside the pain and burning sensation you continue on and win the race. Now, the race is over and you take a much-desired seat. You remove your shoes but the remnants of the race remain…your legs are swollen, itch, burn and are completely fatigued. But you completed the race! Your objective has been met. This scenario could be a marathon runner anxious to break through the tape at the finish line or a football player with ball in hand running towards the endfield to score the winning touch down. Yet this used to describe every day of Gracy Zachariah’s life. And, Gracy’s objective? To be there for her patients, to see to their needs and make sure they not only survived but were comfortable. Gracy is a nurse. Gracy has spent over 18 years taking care of others. She spends her days walking from patient to patient doing whatever is required. By the time her shift is over, Gracy’s legs are extremely fatigued, swollen and painful. As a nurse she knows that varicose veins are an indication of improper blood flow but can be an indication of, or lead to, more serious health conditions. Her research led her to Dr. Baltazar. Like Gracy, Dr. Baltazar has one goal in mind: to assist people to walk and live without pain. Dr. Baltazar is certified by the American Board of Surgery in both General and Vascular Surgery and is dedicated exclusively to the treatment of varicose veins. Unlike many practices, Dr. Baltazar will personally see you at each visit so there is no need to re-tell your story to a different doctor every time. Knowing about varicose veins but not much about the actual procedure, Gracy received a free consultation and Dr. Baltazar explained in complete detail what was going to happen and what she could expect. Two weeks later, Gracy returned for her procedure. “I really liked that he was able to do it in his office as an outpatient procedure.” During the actual procedure Gracy said that she was very comfortable and her recovery was quick. “I had very little pain the first 48 hours. And now you can hardly see anything of the veins and it looks fabulous!” So what does Gracy, as a medical professional, say about Dr. Baltazar? “He is the #1 doctor I recommend. He’s friendly and really knows what he is doing.” So if you are running your own daily leg race with painful varicose veins, take the graceful way and call Dr. Baltazar today. Delight in your race, don’t suffer it.

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A Grace-ful Leg Race

Before

After

Before

After

Ulises Baltazar MD, RVT, FACS Sugar Land Vein Specialists 281-240-8400 4660 Sweetwater Blvd Ste 130 www.slveins.com

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Why Weight?

Donnielle Carter

or so many people in the United States and Texas, weight is a consistent hopeless battle that seems to never end. That was the case for one Sugar Land mother. After giving birth in 2005 she immediately gained a significant amount of weight. So much weight that she sought out and went to one of those weight-loss and diet clinics to lose it. She did succeed in losing 20 of those pounds but quickly gained some of it back. “I was miserable. I was constantly gaining and losing until my husband saw an interview with Dr. Ahmadi discussing the Lipotuck™ procedure. I knew immediately that this was the procedure for me!” Dr. Ahmadi is a double board certified plastic surgeon and Diplomat of the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Plastic Surgery. At Avante Plastic Surgery, he performs procedures such as; facelifts, nose reshapings, breast augmentations, reductions, and lifts. However, Dr.

before

after

Ahmadi’s signature miracle procedure is the Lipotuck™. The Lipotuck™ is a one-stage procedure that combines liposuction with tightening of the skin, to provide a flatter stomach and a more streamlined waistline. Dr. Ahmadi says, “This procedure also addresses the upper abdomen, hips and love handles area that a traditional tummy tuck does not.” It provides a superior result with a quicker recovery time. Check out the before and after pictures on the website and you will be amazed. Completely happy with the results, this local woman goes on to express her gratitude for Dr. Ahmadi and his staff at Avante Plastic Surgery, “You all were there for me, were always professional, kind and caring.” No longer fraught with her weight she proclaims, “I am a completely different person now. My confidence has returned and I feel great. I would recommend this surgery to anyone struggling with their body.” Does this mother’s daily fight with weight sound familiar? Do you or someone you know battle with their body?” Call for your appointment today with Dr. Ahmadi and Avante Plastic Surgery and see if this procedure is the miracle you were looking for to end the struggle and win the battle. Why weight? What have you got to lose?

To advertise, 281-235-0600

Avante Plastic Surgery 281-265-2639 (BODY) 1112 Soldiers Field Dr. Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.Lipotuck.com

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Craving Parenthood T Sarah Warburton he quest for parenthood can be a long and difficult journey. Even the strongest couples with the best relationships struggle with the stress of infertility. Dr. Subodh Chauhan of the Fertility Specialists of Houston says, “According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 7.3 million Americans—or one in every eight couples of childbearing age—are infertile. This condition can be incredibly hard for a couple to deal with emotionally. Our goal is to find a solution, if possible, and to give couples access to the support they need… whatever the outcome.” Don’t pr olong your agony because you’r e afraid of the unknown. If you’re under the age of thir ty-five and have been tr ying to conceive for a year or more or you are over the age of thir ty-five and have been tr ying for six months… come see Dr. Chauhan! He says, “Sometimes the answer can be amazingly simple, once we understand the tr ue problem. The earlier you see a

fer tility specialist, the sooner we can evaluate your case and determine your treatment options.” Whether men are from Mars and women are from Venus (or not), men and women have different ways of handling the stress of infertility. The Fertility Specialists of Houston are committed to helping you through the dark days of your journey, as well as the good times. Spending time together and opening the lines of communication can actually strengthen a relationship. Dr. Chauhan says, “Many couples find comfort and perspective in support groups like those offered by Resolve (The National Infertility Association). At FSH we also offer patient support services like educational classes and counseling with a licensed clinical psychologist, Dr. Irena Milentijevic, who specializes in infertility and reproductive issues. All of us understand the strength of your desire to have a family, and we’ll do everything we can to help you manage the stress of the situation and find balance while we work

towards a solution.” “Infertility is not a life-threatening disease,” says Dr. Chauhan, “so the best course of action is always the one you are most comfortable taking. I promise to listen to you, support you, and always put my experience and my resources to work in the hope of making your dream come true.” Fertility Specialists of Houston 4724 Sweetwater Blvd, Ste 105 Sugar Land, TX 77479 832-553-5IVF (5483) www.fshivf.com Email Dr. Chauhan your questions at schauhan@fshivf.com

Getting Into Hot Water? Sarah Warburton

nly polar bears like to start off a cold winter day with a dip in some chilly water. If your hot water heater isn’t doing its job, you need a plumber to take over with the best service at a fair price. Our hometown heroes at Alan’s Plumbing will get you out of hot water…and get hot water back into your home. Master Plumber Alan Burkhalter says, “Every hot water heater has a life span. We’ll take a look and let you know if it’s time for a new one and what type would work best for your family.” Does your hot water heater run cold two minutes after you get into the shower? Or do you get a blast of icy water that never warms up? Alan says, “Gas hot water heaters last around ten years and electric ones may go a little longer. Signs that your hot water heater may be ready for retirement include rust colored water from your hot water tap, moisture around the base of the hot water heater, and hot water that doesn’t get very hot, gets cold quickly, or never heats up at all. I can’t tell you how many calls we get from people who found out the hard way—through a

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freezing shower—that their hot water heater needed replacement.” Ready to warm up? Alan’s Plumbing can help you choose the perfect hot water heater for your home. Alan says, “The first step is figuring out the most hot water your family would use in an hour. We’ll consider showers, the dishwasher, the laundry, and anything that would affect your water usage to decide what size tank and what FHR or first hour rating you need. I’d recommend you replace your gas or electric hot water heater with another gas or electric.” You’ll never get a lukewarm reception at Alan’s Plumbing where they’re always happy to help you…and it shows! Alan says, “If your hot water heater’s over ten years old and making lots of noise, give us a call. We can hook you up with a topquality self-cleaning Rheem hot water heater, with a new pan and new connections that’ll bring the heat for another decade.” For honesty, integrity, excellent service and genuine warmth, call Alan’s Plumbing at 281-261-1064. Alan’s Plumbing 281-261-1064

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The Picture of Health Sarah Warburton

hen you need diagnostic imaging like an ultrasound, a mammogram or bone-density test, you’ve got an important decision to make. Where do you want to go and how do you want to be treated? Get informed about your health by asking questions about cost, about quality of care, and about convenience. Gail Burleson, R.T. of Mammography and Ultrasound Specialists says, “Our patients are surprised at how quickly they can be treated here, how low our self-pay costs are, and how pleasant we make their experience. We love taking care of your health…and we hope it shows!” Nobody has a huge chunk of time to spend on diagnostic screening or testing…and you won’t need more than a few minutes at Mammography and Ultrasound Specialists. This fully-accredited, state-of-the-art medical imaging center can get you in and out and on your way! Gail says, “We’ve got easily accessible parking and you won’t have to cool your heels in our waiting room or hang around for results. Most of our tests take about twenty minutes from walking in the door to walking out. Some patients come in on their lunch break to get their testing done. Of course, we’re friendly here…so we won’t rush you out if you’re enjoying a chat!” Making health decisions on autopilot could cost you money! One patient who didn’t meet the deductible for her insurance was charged more than $1500 for diagnostic imaging at another facility. Mammography and Ultrasound Specialists offers an extraordinary experience that can save you money. Gail explains, “We accept a wide range of health insurance and we offer more

than competitive self-pay prices. That’s especially important if you have a high deductible to meet for your insurance or if you’re always a self-pay patient. Being a free-standing facility means we have low overhead and we pass those savings to you!” Why not get your mammogram, ultrasound, or bone density test done in an environment that’s as warm and inviting as a home? Gail says, “All the imaging and diagnostic specialists at Mammography and Ultrasound Specialists enjoy making your experience worth remembering. We’ve been woman-owned and woman-friendly for over sixteen years and we welcome you to reclaim your health and check us out!” . Mammography & Ultrasound Specialists 281-240-0448 1403 Hwy 6, Suite 700 www.houstonmammo.com

Best New Kitchen Upgrade

Sarah Warburton ooking for the best way to upgrade the most-used room in your house? We sifted through the latest kitchen products to find one that saves you time, money, and trouble…and offers a simply irresistible spruce-up. We found the winning combination featured on the Today Show and we couldn’t wait to share this amazing solution with you! What’s got the experts on HGTV, “This Old House,” and the diy network all excited? The same secret you can find right here in Fort Bend County…the simple, durable beauty of the Miracle Method. Owners Jonee and Paul Barnett say, “The Miracle Method makes it easy to completely change the look of your kitchen. Switching up a big surface like a countertop makes a big impact…especially on a popular room like

Before

your kitchen!” Now it’s as easy as pie to whip up a kitchen that looks brand-new…using the secret recipe of the Miracle Method. Forget the dust, delays, and expense of a major remodel! Miracle Method can refinish almost any countertop. Solid surfaces such as laminate, Corian®, and Formica® as well as ceramic tile countertops, can be refinished at significant cost savings over replacement. After the countertop is cleaned using a special two-step process and any repairs are made, you can select the perfect finish for your counter from more than 20 different natural stone finishes. The sky’s the limit! You can even add a bullnose edge to create a more custom look. Big names like Disney and Hilton know that it pays to check the price…and that’s why they use the Miracle Method. This process saves up to 75 percent over the cost of removing your old counters and replacing them. Paul says, “Just because it’s affordable doesn’t mean it won’t last. We have the experience and the professional training to make sure your After surfaces are properly prepared

To advertise, 281-235-0600

and the finishes are correctly applied. In fact, we offer a five-year warranty against peeling or adhesion problems…that’s how confident we are that the Miracle Method can stand the test of time!” Ready to give your kitchen a Miracle Method makeover? Jonee says, “Call us for your free estimate. Give us just a few days…and we’ll give you a kitchen that looks like new!” And don’t forget, Miracle Method also transforms all types of bathtubs, showers, fiberglass, tile, acrylic, and cultured marble …without ripping them out. Call today. Miracle Method Surface Refinishing 281-240-2284 603 Murphy Road (by appointment only) Stafford, TX www.miraclemethod.com/houstonsw

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Party on the Boardwalk Sarah Warburton

he Tooth Fairy’s throwing a party on the boardwalk this month…and you’re invited! Not only is February National Children’s Dental Care Month, but it’s also the second anniversary of Little People’s Dentistry. Dr. Bianca Sanchez says, “We’d like to thank all our amazing patients and invite everyone to visit us for an appointment during the month of February…and if you have dental insurance, we’ll wave your deductible as our birthday gift to you!” Every day feels like a party at Little People’s Dentistry. Kids ages 1-17 and those with special needs love this awesome office that’s just for them! Tiny children and too-cool teens all dig the “back from the beach” vibe. Kids explore the mysterious “discovery boxes” in the waiting room and play with toys hanging from skateboard-shaped hooks. A movie’s always playing, there’s a tank of colorful fish to watch, and a funhouse mirror sure to get the giggles going. And wait ‘til you set eyes on the “California cool” hygiene room! See the waves around the ceiling, the silhouette of the Ferris wheel and the surfboard-shaped counter? Your kid will slip on some shades and relax while dental tools like “Mr. Whistle,” “Mr. Bumpy,” and “Mr. Thirsty” do their work. All the x-rays are digital, so parents don’t have to worr y

We will wave your deductable as our birthday gift to you! about radiation levels and kids (and Dr. Sanchez) can see pictures of their teeth right away. Ever y excellent dude and surfer girl gets a “gold” coin for good dental habits…good

for a treat from the vending machine over by the arcade games. Kids come in with a grin and leave with a balloon filled with helium from a clown-shaped dispenser. Do you know the difference between a skateboard, a trickboard, and a longboard skateboard? Dr. Sanchez says, “We have a little short skateboard, the kind you use for tricks, for Diego…when he’s older! My husband and I enjoy the longboard skateboard. Just like a paddleboard is longer and wider than a surfboard and uses a pole-like paddle, you pole a longboard skateboard. My patients get a kick out of hearing all about it. I try to make it really fun to get a solid start on good dental hygiene. After all, to be an excellent pediatric dentist you have to stay on top of the latest in dentistry…and in touch with your inner child!” Little People’s Dentistry 281-261-0020 4706 Riverstone Blvd., Suite 200 (behind Kohl’s) Missouri City, TX 77459 www.littlepeoplesdentistry.com

Speak Up When You’re Down Sarah Warburton or nine months you look forward to the day when one tiny infant will fill your life with joy…but after your baby is born, you may find yourself crying for hours and completely overwhelmed. Dr. Leslie Cohan of The Woman’s Place says, “Don’t panic if you feel irritable and sad instead of blissful. After all, childbirth puts your body through a lot. Your hormone levels drop, your milk comes in, and you’re exhausted. Not only that, but your entire life has changed…and that’s a big transition. Most new mothers experience a letdown a few days after giving birth, but rest and take care of yourself and the ‘baby blues’ will go away within the first two weeks.” If the baby blues are pastel blue, postpartum depression is dark as midnight. This darker shade of blue interferes with your life and usually begins between a week and several months after delivery. Dr. Cohan says, “If you experience Dr. Cohan and her a change in appetite daughter Kailey

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and sleeping habits, anger, panic attacks, feelings of helplessness, worthlessness and guilt, loss of interest in things you previously enjoyed, nausea, crying, the inability to make decisions or concentrate or a loss of energy, you may have developed postpartum depression (PPD). In this case, and especially if you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts or thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby, call a friend, family member or neighbor to come over and contact your doctor immediately. PPD is not your fault and we can get you all the help you need.” If you can’t sleep when your baby sleeps, that could be sign that you have postpartum depression. Dr. Cohan says, “Although any woman can develop PPD, women with a family history of depression or thyroid problems and women undergoing additional life changes like marital or financial difficulties are especially vulnerable. It’s normal to get the weepies. It’s almost abnormal not to get them. It’s normal to want to smack your husband (wonderful as he is) upside the head. It’s abnormal to want to hurt yourself or your baby. The best thing you can do for yourself is to get help. Talk with me and I’ll review your symptoms, refer you to a specialist, and recommend treatment.

Pre-K to 8th Grade

COLONY HAIR

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Highly Specialized in Double & Triple Hi lites, Color Correction and Texture Cuts!

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The Woman’s Place (affiliated with the Woman’s Hospital of Texas) 713-795-0349 16552 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77479 http://drcohan.womanshealthgroup.com/

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Member of

To advertise, 281-235-0600

3632 Highway 6, Sugar Land www.ColonyHair.com

UPCLOSE ~ February 2011 ~ 9

Cute and...

Not so cute I

Come in as a patient and leave as a friend!

s that gap-toothed grin the cutest thing ever? Actually, kids are just downright cute despite missing teeth…not because of them! Missing a tooth will make an adult feel awkward and selfconscious. Dr. Thomas Lomonte says, “We’ve got solutions for missing teeth or gaps between your notas-pearly-as-you’d-like whites. The Snap-on Smile is a simple, completely reversible procedure that’s perfect for patients of all ages with crooked, stained or missing teeth who want a dramatically better smile quickly. We can also replace missing teeth with par-

tial dentures, dental bridges, or the most durable alternative, dental implants. We can do Invisalign for crooked teeth or whitening for stained, discolored ones. You deser ve a smile that shows the world how wonderful you are!” Thomas M. Lomonte, D.D.S. 12122 Murphy Rd. Stafford, TX 77477 (281) 530-1440 www.drthomaslomonte.com

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10 ~ UPCLOSE ~ February 2011

Visit our website or contact us by phone for a free in-home estimate

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A Stellar School for Stellar Students W

Sarah Warburton

e asked one local woman, Carol Appelbaum, what drove her to create and open the Turning Point Academy. She says, “In a word? My daughter…and the other bright motivated students like her who needed a different kind of educational experience.” “In elementary school my daughter waited for others to grasp a subject or watched as kids misbehaving took much of her teachers’ time and attention. By middle school, we were ready for a change. Twenty years ago my husband and I co-founded a world-renown teacher training company, www.atiseminars.org that now trains over 50,000 teachers annually…so we had a clear idea of the kind of educational and social setting we wanted for our child. Unfortunately, it just didn’t exist.” “At the Turning Point Academy, we combine our knowledge of education with New College Preparatory Academy’s (NCPA) brilliant curriculum. Our curriculum meets very high standards and is proven to engage and inspire students. Although TPA is in our large, ‘boutique style’ home in Sugar Land, it is considered a private school because we use the NCPA’s College Board certified private school curriculum.” Looking for an alternative to traditional models, conventional curriculums, and “mandated timeline” education? Carol has your answer, “Since our students progress through subjects at their own pace, they make better grades, score higher on the PSAT, SAT, and

ACT, and qualify for college scholarships. Through Toastmasters our students learn to articulate their thoughts and ideas. We incorporate digital assignments, webinars, blogs, and digital coursework to prepare our students for a techsavvy future. Our students also run their day like they would run their own business…with life-skills like goal-setting, planning, and mentoring.” “Since schoolwork is meant to be done at school, our students DO NOT HAVE HOMEWORK. Turning Point Academy students have time for after school activities like sports, scouting, or volunteering. Team sports available to public school students are also available to our students. After the school season ends some play club volleyball, AAU basketball, ice skate competitively, or participate in the arts. “Our daughter is doing so well in her schoolwork at age fourteen,” says Carol, “that she could walk into any college classroom today and hold her own. And I’d like all parents to know that we don’t allow any negative interactions among students, so your sons and daughters will learn in a positive, supportive, and challenging environment that will give them inner strength and confidence for life. Seeing the difference this school has made for our students

To advertise, 281-235-0600

makes me so proud! I hope you’ll reserve your seat at our Open House, February 16, 2011 at 6:00pm or schedule an appointment for your child (5th through 9th grade) to shadow our students for a day…and see what we’re all about!” Check our website to see what Channel 2 News reported about this “boutique style” private school in an educator’s luxurious Sugar Land home. www.theturningpointacademy.org. The Turning Point Academy 281-780-8713 www.theturningpointacademy.org

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New Age Accounting

There is a reason for not still doing it like this! Sarah Warburton

he days when an accountant wore a green eyeshade and crunched numbers in an old-school ledger are over. John Trevathan, CPA says, “New age accounting is more than pencil-pushing. Now we’re able to offer our clients full-service, round the clock accounting and business services hosted on a website that allows you access any time, day or night. Business moves at the speed of light these days, and we’ll stay current with your business all year long. Not only will that make you more effective and efficient, it’ll make tax season a breeze!” When it comes to your money, timing is everything! With new age accounting from Trevathan, your accounts will exist “in the clouds,”

Old way vs New way completely secure and available to you whenever you need them. Your own personal client portal will keep your scanned documents safe, backed up daily and tightly secured with your password. Ditch your filing cabinets for bill processing via scanned invoices that live in your “virtual file room.” You’ll have access to on-line downloads to your books from banks and credit card companies on a regular basis. And new age accounting from Trevathan includes tax return preparation using the very best tax software from Thomson Reuters and great CPA’s, all backed up with your data to

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your private portal “in the clouds.” Time is money, and nobody can afford to waste either one! If you’ve got an accounting problem on a Friday, you don’t have to wait until Monday to get it straightened out. John says, “We’ll do what you need us to do and train your people, too. Having online access to your system allows your clerk or bookkeeper to keep working instead of backing up files for the CPA that might be in the office in a day or two. We can sign into your system and fix the problem now…not two days from now!” Tax time is right around the corner…are you ready? It’s not all business at this locally owned and operated accounting firm. Get your personal taxes done quickly with the professionals at Trevathan. After all, the sooner you file, the sooner it’s over…and with Trevathan, you’ll know it’s done right! Enjoy the new age of accounting… with Trevathan, CPA, PLLC. Trevathan, CPA, PLLC 281-207-1333 19901 Southwest Freeway john@cpajet.com www.cpajet.com

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Loose 30 pounds in 30 days! Cara Smith

o you know what hCG is, or what it stands for? For starters, it’s a special hormone that’s the critical component of Kalologie’s MD Weight Loss program, a scientificallybacked diet regime that’s helping men and women see serious results in just a few short weeks. Technically, hCG stands for human chorionic gonadotropin (say that three times fast)—but as far as you’re concerned, it should stand for hot, curvy (or cut, for all you men out there), and gorgeous! That’s because the MD Weight Loss program not only helps you lose weight, but it can actually reshape your body into a fabulous figure. When the hCG hormone is coupled with a calorie-restricted diet, it helps your body burn fat reserves so you’ll see noticeable results in a small span of time—in fact, you’ll be done in just 9 weeks! Even better, it helps you lose weight in the places that really count. If you’ve tried other diets but can’t get rid of stubborn fat around your belly and bottom, then MD Weight Loss could be the ticket for you.

And there’s no more supportive and friendly an environment in which to undertake a weight loss program than Kalologie. “The people who come to us are motivated, but we know it still takes commitment,” says Jennifer. All it takes to get started is some simple blood work to be reviewed by Kalologie’s medical director, Dr. Patrick Wong. The diet is easy to follow, meals are planned, and you won’t have to do any more exercise than you usually do. In just nine weeks, you’ll have lost weight and retrained your metabolism to help keep it off. Give the team at Kalologie a call to get started. You still have time to get results to look your best for the holidays—and show everybody what hCG really stands for…HOT, CURVY, GORGEOUS! Kalologie Skincare / Medspa Whole Foods Shopping Center 15890 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478 (281) 265-0880 www.kalologie.com

50% off the hCG Weight Loss for the month of February

Are You Showing Your Age? Y

Sarah Warburton our home doesn’t care about your laugh lines or a stray grey hair…but you should care when your roof starts showing signs of aging. After all, your roof protects the framework of your house as well as the people living inside. You need to know it’s up to the job. Joe Rangel, owner of Ameristar Roofing says, “We’re always happy to come out and do a free inspection to look for signs of aging, but it doesn’t hurt to familiarize yourself with the signals that your roof may need to be replaced.” How long can you expect your roof to last? Joe says, “Honestly, it depends on the type of roof you have and the kind of weather we get. Usually asphalt shingles last between fifteen and twenty years, slate lasts over thirty, and metal lasts between fifteen and forty. Of course, when you have wind storms, hail, and crazy Texas weather, it knocks years off your roof. That’s why it’s important to get an inspection. If you do need a new roof, our guys have earned the elite certification of CertainTeed Quality Master

Installers, so we can offer you CertainTeed’s 3 Star, 4 Star, and 5 Star Extended Warranties— something only one percent of roofers nationwide can offer!” Catching the signs of an aging roof early can save you a whole heap of headaches down the line. If you see curling or buckling tiles, damaged flashing, ceiling spots, missing shingles, blistering and increased algae growth, your roof could need repair or replacement. You don’t even have to go outside to see some signs of aging like water marks or rain spots on your inside walls that touch the roof. Give Ameristar a call, and you’ll know for sure. Joe says, “We pride ourselves on being straight w i t h our customers. We’ll give you our honest opinion each and every time.” If you see your roof needs some TLC…call the professionals at Ameristar. Joe says, “Our motto for every job is: We want your recommendation...because of our reputation!”

To advertise, 281-235-0600

www.ameristarroofing.com (281) 238-4230 3821 F.M. 359 Richmond, TX 77406

UPCLOSE ~ February 2011 ~ 13

Making Smarter Choices

Sarah Warburton aking the right choices could add years to your life. Local expert and new father Dr. Manoj Bhardwaj of Internist Associates of Houston says, “So many health problems—diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, osteoporosis and even cancer—are affected by our lifestyle. I really strive in everything I do to educate and empower my patients to make better choices for their long-term health.” Living a long, healthy life starts with the decisions we make every day…exercising, eating, and sleeping. While a new baby at home can make that last one a challenge for Dr. Bhardwaj, he has some advice. He says, “Thinking about lifestyle changes can be overwhelming, but it’s okay to start small. Choose more vegetables, fruits, whole grains and eat fewer processed foods. Start with walking just ten to twenty minutes a day, three times a week and build up to between thirty and sixty minutes most days of the week to help prevent heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis, and depression. And even though it’s difficult, getting six to eight hours of sleep a night will help you feel great!” The best way to achieve wellness? Don’t wait until you’re sick to visit your doctor! Dr. Bhardwaj will work to keep you healthy. He’s completed residencies in family medicine and internal medicine. In addition, he’s completed

internships in pediatrics, dermatology, general medicine, general surgery, OB/ GYN, and anesthesiology and is certified by both the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Board of Internal Medicine. He says, “Regular blood pressure checks, cancer screenings, and immunizations are critical to maintaining your health. Remember to update your tetanus shots every ten years, get an annual flu shot, update your pertussis and (for those over age 65) consider a shingles vaccine.” What’s the best thing you can do for your health? Dr. Bhardwaj says, “Get educated about your blood pressure, your cholesterol and your weight…and be proactive about choosing to be healthy. That’s my wish for all my patients!” Internist Associates of Houston 713-797-9933 16552 Southwest Freeway At The Woman’s Place Sugar Land, TX 77378 www.internistassociates.com

EEGs Offer A Glimpse Of Activity In The Brain

s you go about your day, there is constant activity in your brain — even when you’re asleep. Brain cells communicate with each other by producing tiny electrical impulses. These brain waves come in frequencies and create patterns that can be measured by a test called an electroencephalogram (EEG). An EEG can detect problems in the electrical activity of the brain. “EEGs are most often used to help diagnose and monitor seizure disorders, such as epilepsy or convulsions,” states M. Faisal Khan, M.D., board certified neurologist with Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates. “They also may be used to find causes of confusion and to evaluate head injuries, tumors, infections, degenerative diseases (such as Alzheimer’s disease) and abnormal changes in body chemistry that affect the brain. EEGs may also be used to evaluate sleep disorders.” An EEG causes no pain or discomfort. A technician applies 16 to 25 electrodes in different positions on the scalp. “The electrodes are connected by wires to an amplifier and a recording machine. This machine converts the electrical impulses into patterns that can be seen on a computer screen,” Dr. Khan says. Patients undergo-

ing an EEG may be asked to do certain things during the recording, such as breathe deeply and rapidly or look at bright flashing lights. “Sometimes the lights and altered breathing trigger a seizure in those with seizure disorders. The technician performing the test is trained to take care of the patient if this happens,” Dr. Khan emphasizes. Some EEGs are done while the patient is asleep. EEG services available at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital: • Outpatient — Adult and pediatric EEGs (for children as young as 5 years old) are offered on an outpatient basis. A routine outpatient EEG takes 30 minutes and is typically scheduled with a referral from your primary physician or your child’s pediatrician. • Ambulatory Outpatient — AmbulatoryEEG (aEEG) monitoring allows prolonged EEG recording outside the hospital or clinic. An aEEG uses portable technology allowing the patient to go home and can take place over 48 to 72 hours. • Inpatient — Routine EEGs take 30

Dr. Faisai Khan minutes and are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for hospital patients. Diagnostic reports are generated within 24 hours. • Inpatient/Critical Patients — The use of continuous EEG monitoring (cEEG) in the Intensive Care Unit and Emergency Department for critical patients with acute brain injuries is available 24/7. To schedule an EEG at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, please call 281-274-7170. A physician’s referral is required.

A portion of the editorial content contained in this publication is controlled and contracted by the advertisers contained herein and is part of their advertisement. UpClose Magazine is not responsible for content of these editorials or advertisements. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.

This’ll

floor

What “Wood” You Prefer?

you!

ould you rather have floors that look fantastic for a few weeks, a dozen months, or fifty years? Knowing the truth about wood flooring makes all the difference. The first step is deciding between luscious colors like Red Oak, Yellow Birch, Brazilian Cherry, Santos Mahogany, and Hard Maple…but that’s only step one. You need the best installation and proper finish for floors that will go the distance, especially in our climate. Keep reading and ask yourself, “What ‘wood’ you prefer?” Anybody—“Big Box Stores,” warehouses, even your uncle—can sell you wood flooring, but without good installation, you’re selling yourself short. Bob and Renee McKelvey at All About Carpet and Floors started out as certified flooring inspectors and saw firsthand the damage done by improper installation. Bob says, “Renee and I travelled all over the county, looking at flooring that hadn’t performed. What did we learn? Nine times out of ten, improper installation caused the problem and voided the warranty. We took what we learned and we applied it to All About Carpet and Floors. That’s why we use installers we trust (most have been with us for over ten years). Different materials perform differently, so we’ve got a tile crew, a carpet crew, and a crew for wood. Just like all our installers, our wood installers are certified and pride themselves on doing quality work…and we back all our installations with a warranty.” How many times have you heard the phrase, “it’s not the heat, it’s the humidity?” Knowing our climate makes a huge difference in the installation and performance of your wood flooring. Bob says, “Only one out of one hundred homes in our area have true solid wood floors, because our humidity makes them an interesting challenge. Also, solid wood floors have to be nailed down, not glued like engineered wood. That means that cement slabs are not inviting to true solid wood floors…but that doesn’t mean you can’t have them.” Get stunning wood floors that will last from All About Carpet and Floors, a local company with over twenty years of selecting and installing flooring in our swampy Texas climate.

Bob says, “Manufacturers like Johnson, Mannington and Mirage have engineered floors created to thrive in our humidity. These floors have an aluminum oxide finish applied in the factory, so they come with a separate warranty on the finish that’s good for fifty years. We really understand how wood expands and contracts in our area, and that makes a difference in the products we carry and the installation we provide. As an inspector, I have seen solid wood floors exposed to moisture…and it had pushed out the walls off the foundation!” Why knock on wood and hope for the best? Start with the best from All About Carpet and Floors to get gorgeous, gleaming wood floors with a warranty that’ll last for years. Stop by the All About Carpet and Floors showroom anytime MondaySaturday 10:00am-6:00pm and see how Bob and Renee can assist with flooring that lasts. All About Carpet and Floors 281-265-3700 3145 Highway 6 South (next to Shipley’s) www.allaboutcarpet.com

To advertise, 281-235-0600

UPCLOSE ~ February 2011 ~ 15

Ouch. When you end up flat on your back, Sugar Land Spine and Disc will get you back on your feet.

t only takes a second for an accident to happen. A car accident, a slip on the stairs, or reaching just a little too far in a baseball game…and you’ve got a back injury. Suddenly working on your laptop, hugging your daughter, even answering your phone is agony. How long will it last? Could be a few days, a few months, or a few years. Don’t let the “ouch” take the fun out of your life. If your pain persists more than a few days, come to Sugar Land Spine and Disc. Maybe you’ve been living with pain so long you can’t remember how it all started. No matter how it started, most back pain can be traced to problems with your spine. Instead of messing around with heat packs and cold compresses, back braces and OTC medication; why not go after the underlying cause? At Sugar Land Spine and Disc, you’ll start treatment by getting an MRI to determine whether a degenerated or herniated disc could be the root of your pain. If it is, you’re in the right place! Whether you had a scary accident like getting hit by a car or a silly one like slipping on a banana peel, back pain is no laughing matter. Dr. Stacy says, “The Lordex works by creating a slight vacuum to open up the space between the vertebrae and relieve the disc pressure. Once blood and nerve flow to the injured area is restored, your body begins

to heal…and you’ll feel so much better! At Sugar Land Spine and Disc, our Lordex decompression system treats problems like low back and neck pain, herniated or bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, facet syndromes, sciatica, failed spinal surgery, and spinal stenosis. Patients are amazed at the results it delivers!” Are you worried about taking care of your kids, getting your work done, or just getting through the day? Your back pain should be a distant memory, not a fact of life! Why not try the non-invasive Lordex? You won’t need narcotic medication or any bed rest like you would with surgery, so you can keep living your life while you’re undergoing treatments. You do a half an hour on the machine and then a half an hour of exercises to stretch and build the weak muscles around your spine. Dr. Michele says, “We’ll fix your pain for the short-term…but we’ll also correct the problem so it doesn’t reoccur again!” “You don’t have to wait until you’re desperate,” says Dr. Stacy. “I’ve seen so many patients excited and happy to be free of the back pain they thought they’d always have. You really can feel good again. All you have to lose is the pain! Give us a call and schedule a free consultation and evaluation.”

Call Sugar Land Spine & Disc today for your Complimentary Patient Information Packet!

281-491-DISC (3472) Need a Chiropractor? Call Sugar Mill Chiropractic - 281-494-1690

Silent Thief of Sight Sarah Warburton

Normal vision and same scene as viewed by a person with glaucoma.

recommends an annual dilated eye examination for people at risk for glaucoma as a preventive eye care measure. I can’t stress enough the importance of detecting this disease early…because once fluid and pressure buildup and damage your sight, it’s gone forever.” Are you at risk for glaucoma? Those who are predisposed to the disease include people with a family history of glaucoma, African Americans over the age of 40 and Hispanics over the age of 60, those with thinner corneas, chronic eye inflammation, and those using corticosteroids or medication that affects the pressure of their eyes. Dr. Doan says, “Because this disease is painless and can strike anyone, many people just don’t realize they’re developing glaucoma…that’s why it’s the second leading cause of blindness in the U.S. But there’s good news! With early detection and treatment, we can control the internal pressure in your eyes; reduce the chances of damage, and usually save your sight.” How can you keep an eye out for this devious disease? Remember to see Dr. Doan for your annual eye exam…anyone can see that it’s crucial for your health! As Dr. Doan always says, “To see clearly, get a check-up yearly!”

When you come in for an eye exam, Dr. Doan looks at more than can be seen with the naked eye. She says, “Glaucoma is an eye disease in which the internal fluid pressure of your eye rises to a point that the optic nerve is damaged. During your eye exam I’ll measure the internal pressure of your eye to check for high pressure. I’ll also check your visual acuity and your optic nerve. The American Optometric Association also

Dr. Anh Doan, Therapeutic Optometrist Vision Source! 281-261-2647 4725 Highway 6 South www.visionsource-missouricity.com

o matter how long you stare in the mirror, this is one disease you’ll never see coming. There’s no pain, no warning signs, and no way to know you have it…without a little professional help. Dr. Anh Doan of Missouri City’s Vision Source says, “Glaucoma affects more than 2.2 million Americans aged 40 and older and nearly half don’t even know they have the disease. A comprehensive eye exam is the only way to detect glaucoma…and early detection is the only way to control it and help preserve your sight.”

Pick up YOUR

FREE TCRN Preferred Customer Card at any of the businesses found in the Business Directory, and start saving money immediately. The card is yours to keep for endless savings! Just look for the TCRN Preferred Customer Card by the different listings in the Business Directory, and you will see the Exclusive Savings available with your TCRN Preferred Customer Card!

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To advertise, 281-235-0600

UPCLOSE ~ February 2011 ~ 17

Offering Our Special Brand of Care for Patients in Fort Bend County Our goal is to provide a high standard of care to every patient, every day. At St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital, we combine expertise, quality and technology with our special brand of caring for the whole person – body, mind and spirit – to serve the patients of Fort Bend County.

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Heart diseases is the leading cause of death in the United States. Please visit StLukesSugarland.com for scheduled events to learn more about heart disease prevention.

StLukesSugarland.com St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital • 1317 Lake Pointe Parkway • Sugar Land, TX 77478 • 281-637-7000

Just Flat Out Hurts!

Sarah Warburton an you feel pain running from your foot up the inside of your ankle? Our local orthopaedic lower extremity (and all-around bone and joint) specialist Dr. Mark Vann, MD says, “The first and clearest sign of symptomatic flat feet is pain running from your arch up the medial (inner) side of your ankle…and the sooner I diagnose the problem, the more solutions I can offer!” If flat feet cramp your stride, the first step you should take is to Dr. Vann’s office. He’ll

start you off on the most conservative path and take you forward one step at a time until you’re free from pain. He says, “Flat feet can be extremely painful. I usually start individuals with an anti-inflammatory medication and shoe orthotics. If we don’t see any progress, we’ll consider more aggressive options like ankle bracing or immobilization in a cast if symptoms are severe. If the problem isn’t better or continues to worsen in the upcoming months, we may consider surgery.” Surgery for flat feet has made amazing strides. Dr. Vann says, “During my fellowship at the Michigan International Foot and Ankle Center, I had the privilege of working with an amazing mentor who pioneered new techniques in flat foot reconstructive surgery. If the problem hasn’t gone too far we can usually save your joints, and overall foot flexibility, with a joint-sparing surgery that gives you better function while eliminating your pain. The other choice is a joint-fusing surgery which also gets rid of your pain, but leaves you with a stiffened foot.”

Even if you’re not flat on your back from the pain, don’t wait before seeking help for a problem that flat out hurts! Timely diagnosis can make the difference between simple treatment and surgery involving a joint-sparing versus joint-fusing approach. Dr. Vann says, “Catching a problem early gives us more choices for treatment. My goal is always to find a solution that will work the best for you!” Mark Vann, MD Board Certified, Fellowship Trained, Orthopedic Surgeon Lower Extremity Specialist Sugar Land Medical Plaza 1327 Lake Point Parkway, Suite 520 Sugar Land, TX 77478 713-876-6518 www.MarkVannMD.com

New Year – New Choice!

Donnielle Carter

wise man named Benjamin Franklin once said, “A ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” While this can be directed to many areas of your life how many of us actually take the time to stop and think about the upkeep of our heating and air conditioning systems? We hit the magic switch and the temperature in our home becomes what we desire. But what happens when we hit that switch and NOTHING happens? Another wise man Brian Jackson, owner of Jackson Air & Heat which has been family owned and operated for 29 years and is this area’s most trusted and reliable Trane Comfort Specialist, says, “It is important to remember that your air conditioning & heating system requires routine maintenance just like your car does. And if it is neglected long enough, it will eventually break down or become dangerous to operate, requiring costly repairs.”

A little preventive maintenance will prolong the life of your system and will save on your utility bills. Brian says “The average air conditioner in our climate lasts only 8 to 12 years, this is why we teamed up with Trane over 25 years ago. Trane are made in Tyler, Texas and they are made to take our extreme summers. We have found Trane will last twice as long and has the latest technology to keep your home comfortable.” Upgrading to a new system like the Trane XL20i can be 60% more efficient than your old air conditioner. Now is the best time for a new a/c & heating system, you will be ready for a long hot summer, plus take advantage of low off season prices and the new 2011 tax credit.

To advertise, 281-235-0600

So the choice is yours. Continue on with your old HVAC unit unchecked and watch your utility bills get bigger and the quality of your air deteriorate or call the experts at Jackson Air & Heat and have them perform a maintenance check on your heating and air conditioning system or upgrade to a new system that can lower your utility bills and improve the quality of the air in your home. Jackson Air & Heat a family owned business with a cool reputation – so cool they have a license to chill! Jackson Air 281-240-1037 www.LicenseToChill.us

UPCLOSE ~ February 2011 ~ 19

2011 Pro Grad Fashion Show and Dinner Event

ome out for an enchanted evening of “Sugar and Spice and Ever ything Nice, a night of fun, fashion, and food.” Parents and students with Kempner High School Project Graduation 2011 will entertain

you with a dazzling Fashion Show, Dinner, and Auction on Februar y 5, 2011 star ting at 6:00P.M. The “sweet” event will be held at the Great Hall at the Sugar Land First United Methodist Church on 431 Eldridge Road. The evening will star t with silent and live auctions. The auction will include baskets with a “sweethear t” theme, a round of golf at Sweetwater Countr y Club, a hand-made quilt, and items per fect for taking to college. Following the silent auction, Telfair by Newland Communities is sponsoring a tasty Italian dinner, and Imperial Johnson, LLC and Chambers Painting & Remodeling, LP are sponsoring the delicious dessert, all catered by Teresita’s. Senior students

will model formal fashions from Men’s Wear House, Als’s Formal Wear, Caché, The Wardrobe, the Formal Galler y, Par vani V ida, Urban Rendezvous, Banana Republic, and David’s Bridal. The evening will be topped of f with the raf fling of beautifully decorated jars of candy! Tickets for the event go on sale Januar y 18, 2011 at Kempner High School during lunch in the Commons Area. For pre-sale tickets contact Wanda Sdao at 281.242.2496 r wsdao@yahoo. com or Karen Daly at sldaly@comcast. net 281.330.2166. The cost for this full evening of entertainment is only $20.00. Please come show your support for the Senior Class of 2011!

Have It Your Way You order something as simple as a burger the way you like it: pickles and mustard, hold the onions please…and depending on your appetite you can get small, medium or super size. Why not have the same options with something as important as your Medicine?

At Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy Dr. Lance Campbell, Pharm. D., R.PH and his team of registered compounding experts focus on preparing customized prescriptions based on what your doctor has ordered specifically for you, whether it is bioidentical hormones or a special thyroid preparation. Generally, because the prescription requirement is patient-specific, there aren’t available manufactured agents that can fulfill the order.

Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy 20 ~ UPCLOSE ~ February 2011

281.980.2555 4760 Sweetwater Blvd.,Suite 103

www.CampbellsCompounding.com www.upclosemagazine.com

Are You Ready for Spaghetti? C

lassic Chevy wants you to eat a big bowl of spaghetti…but not in your Chevy! It’s time for the annual Exchange Club of Sugar Land’s Spaghetti Cook-off. This annual event is more than a palate-pleaser, it’s also an amazing fundraiser that helps the Exchange Club support local causes including Fort Bend Crime Stoppers, the Fort Bend ESCAPE Family Resource Center, the Fort Bend Family YMCA, and others. Classic Chevrolet’s owner, Don Kerstetter says, “We’re so pleased to be a premier sponsor of this fun, family-friendly event for the second year in a row. We believe it’s crucial for local businesses to support our community and the charitable organizations like the Exchange Club that really make a difference right here in Fort Bend.” Who knew making a difference could taste

Don Kerstetter

so delicious? The “best spaghetti outside of Italy” will be prepared for you right here in Sugar Land by local law enforcement agencies at the Sugar Land Exchange Club’s Annual Spaghetti Cook-off on Friday,February 18th at 5pm in the cafeteria of the Fluor building on Highway 6. Look for crazy costumes to lure you to some booths and the amazing aroma of garlic and spices to win you over to others. Chairman Doug Earle says, “We’ll also have a silent auction, a raffle, face painters, children’s games, music from talented local folks, and fun for the whole family! In the past, we’ve raised over $100,000 to help local organizations and events. All our proceeds go to worthy local causes like Fort Bend Crime Stoppers, the Fort Bend ESCAPE Family Resource Center, the Fort Bend Family YMCA, CASA Gala for Child Advocates, Boogie for the Fort Bend Women’s Center, Best of the West for ARC, the Boy Scouts, and Santa’s Exchange.” Who makes a difference in our community? Ordinary people with generous spirits like the dedicated volunteers of the Sugar Land Exchange Club. Exchange is known across the country as America’s Service Club. Members develop leadership, networking, and organizational skills that contribute to success in business, family and personal endeavors. More importantly, they share their time and talents to help others…reaching out to an abused child who needs love and affection, helping organize a community crime prevention

program, or wielding rakes in a clean-up project. Doug says, “Our annual Spaghetti Cook-off is an affordable way for families to give back to the community… while getting a great meal and having lots of fun, too!” An Exchange Club member himself, Don Kerstetter says, “We’ve always believed that any business that wants to be part of people’s lives for generations has to reach out and really take part in the community. Everyone at Classic Chevrolet is inspired by the spirit of giving we see here in Fort Bend and we’re proud to continue to be a premier sponsor of the annual Exchange Club of Sugar Land’s Spaghetti Cook-off. Hope to see you all there!” You can pick up tickets for Dinner and/or the Raffle during regular business hours at Classic Chevrolet or through its employees. For more information about the Exchange Club and the Spaghetti Cook-Off visit www. ecsl.org or call 281-242-2214. Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land 13115 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Sales: (866) 498-5485 Service: (866) 500-1660

orthopedic pain

should never be a way of life.

Dr. Christopher Smith is a leader in adult and pediatric orthopedics. Let him help you begin to live pain free. Do you have orthopedic issues related to joint pain, carpal tunnel or a nagging sports injury? As one of the leading, board certified orthopedic surgeons in Texas, Dr. Smith specializes in orthopedic conditions for both children and adults. His experience and use of state-of-the-art technology allow for quicker recovery times. Let Dr. Smith give you or your child the tailored treatment you need to live free of orthopedic pain. From total joint replacement and difficult fractures to high-impact sports injuries, Dr. Smith provides leading orthopedic care right here in Fort Bend County.

Call 281-494-MOST (6678) for a personal appointment today.

L E A D I N G M E D I C I N E SM 1201 Brooks Street Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281-494-MOST 22 ~ UPCLOSE ~ FebruaryMethodistOST.com 2011 www.upclosemagazine.com

Love is in the Air Sarah Warburton ebruary’s the perfect month to show your family how much you love them. Give the ones you love cleaner, safer air to breathe and the promise of year-round comfort with the pros at All Out A/C and Heating. Owners Chance Kamp and Bryan Bellamy and their ace team will help your family breathe easy from Valentine’s Day through the Fourth of July and back to Christmas again. Love is in the air…but that might not be the only thing. If allergies keep your kids sneezing and wheezing, your air needs cleaning. Bryan says, “Indoor air pollution levels may be 100 times higher than the air outdoors…and that can make your family sick. We recommend RGF’s Guardian Air to filter particles, kill microbials and aggressively kill odors and gases. If your family suffers from respiratory allergies, we recommend AccuClean, which works with your heating and cooling system to filter the air in your entire home. AccuClean is 8 times more effective than the best HEPA room appliance and removes up to 99.98 percent of particles and allergens. Winter’s a great time to improve the air quality in your home…and these solutions will work from flu season right through high pollen counts this summer.” Write a love letter to your home with a new, energy efficient air conditioner. Kicking that old A/C unit to the curb in the off-season has all kinds of benefits. You can take advantage of seasonal discounts, you won’t have to wait for service, and you’ll be comfortable—not too hot!—while your air conditioner is being replaced. Bryan says, “Even better, energy efficient air conditioners really do pay for themselves over time. You’ll see savings on your electric bill month after month. In fact, the newest two-speed equipment runs at a lower capacity during the spring and fall and a higher one in the summer

for comfort when you need it…perfect for our Texas climate!” “We love delivering excellent service, education, and value to our customers,” says Chance. “Mention this article and receive a fifteen percent discount on a complete high efficiency air conditioning and heating replacement system from All Out A/C. Call us for a free evaluation and we’ll go all-out every time…to get you the comfort you deserve!” Visit www.alloutacandheating.com for more information in All Out’s online knowledge center, seasonal specials, and Comfort Membership. All Out A/C and Heating 281-238-9292 626 Highway 90A Richmond, TX 77406 www.alloutacandheating.com

What’s Making Your Family Sick… Allergies? Asthma?

Sarah Warburton ne cough spews 100,000 droplets full of bacteria or viruses and one sneeze produces over ten million microscopic particles. Even worse, some viruses remain in your air up to 48 hours. Now think about the air in your home. Due to modern day construction, our houses are built air tight and re-circulate air every 15-30 minutes. Even if you don’t breathe that bacteria, virus, mold or pollen the first time, it’ll keep coming back around. How can you keep your family healthy? Mike Busby of American Ultraviolet Products says, “As the father of three beautiful kids, not only was I relieved to learn there’s an affordable, practical way to make the air they breathe safer, I approached the company and

Not exposed to UV-C light

owner Julian “Kiki” De Ayala to become an Account Executive. How much time and money do you spend every year driving to the doctor, the clinic, or the allergist? Get to the root of the problem and take the bacteria, viruses, pollen and mold out of the air your family breathes with the same technology used in hospitals, universities, and gov’t buildings. This technology has been around for over a hundred years, but it’s only recently become economically feasible for residential homes. Call us at American Ultraviolet and we’ll install a UV-C light inside your existing HVAC system. As the air flows over the coil in your air conditioner, the UV-C light will purify your air and kill ALL DNA-based airborne contaminants before they flow through your ducts and into your lungs. According to the EPA, 90% percent of colds are caught indoors and the air inside your home is up to 70 times more polluted than outside…shouldn’t you make your home as healthy as possible? American Ultraviolet Products offer solutions that sterilize bacteria and viruses safely. Mike says, Exposed to UV-C light

To advertise, 281-235-0600

“We swabbed a sample from an ordinary, clean-looking AC coil…and it grew a Petri dish full of ick within four days. We repeated that experiment on a coil treated with an American Ultraviolet light and nothing at all grew. That’s what I want in my home!” Why should this proven technology only be available in hospitals and corporate buildings? Well, its not!! Mike and American Ultraviolet Products provide this medical grade Air sterilization product for your home at affordable prices. Please call us for a free consultation. “I really think everyone—seniors, kids, busy professionals and parents—deserve to breathe the best air possible in their own home…don’t you?” American Ultraviolet Products 713-984-9300 1670 West Sam Houston North Houston, TX 77043 www.amairtech.com

UPCLOSE ~ February 2011 ~ 23

back pain? neck pain? The Spine Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is the comprehensive, coordinated option for you in Fort Bend County. For back and neck pain, there’s only one premier choice – Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Spine center. Whether you’ve had pain for just a few days or several long years, you’ll find everything you need to diagnose and treat your condition in a convenient location, with access to premier spine specialists and a complete range of treatment options. Getting started is easy. We will guide you through a customized treatment plan, with expedited access to world-class neurologists, neurosurgeons, orthopedic spine surgeons and interventional pain specialists. plus, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and the most advanced imaging and surgical technologies in the world are available on-site.

Stop enduring pain. Call today and begin your personal treatment plan. 281-313-BACK (2225).

Spine Center 16655 Southwest Freeway • Sugar Land, Texas 77479 281-274-7000 • MethodistSugarLand.com

LEADING MEDICINE® 24 ~ UPCLOSE ~ February 2011