UpClose Magazine by Jay Ford

Magazine

KEEPING YOU

July 2012

KEEPING YOU

Maximum Comfort at Work and at Home Mike’s or a business with over forty employees, we know that it’s crucial to keep you cool this summer!” Fort Bend Toyota promises “Whether you shop online or come in person, we promise that you will be treated as a guest in our home.” Mike wanted guests at Fort Bend Toyota to be as comfortable as guests at his home...so he called All Out A/C and Heating.

Mike Shaw, the General Manager of Fort Bend Toyota and Bryan Bellamy of All Out A/C and Heating

ant to save money and be more comfortable at the same time? Mike Shaw, the General Manager of Fort Bend Toyota, had All Out A/C and Heating replace the two systems at his house two years ago. Since then he’s seen a fifty percent reduction in his electric bill! Not only that, but while the work was being done, the team at All Out loaned him two portable air conditioners, so his family wouldn’t suffer any discomfort. Mike knew firsthand the way All Out A/C and Heating does business, so when it was time to get work done on the air conditioning systems at Fort Bend Toyota, he knew who to call! Plenty of people here in Fort Bend know that Chance Kamp and Bryan Bellamy, owners of All Out A/C and Heating, have a team that can meet your residential heating and cooling challenges. Now they’re spreading the word that All Out A/C’s just as skilled at keeping commercial settings cool and comfortable! Bryan says, “We’d like our local businesses to know we combine a personal touch with the technical skill to handle any number of systems...like the twenty-four at Fort Bend Toyota!” If two new air conditioning systems and smarter duct work can save a homeowner up to 50 percent on an electric bill...imagine what a difference it could make to the bottom line of your business. Bryan says, “We’ll analyze your commercial building to ensure that the right size air conditioner is selected for optimum cooling, comfort, and cost-effectiveness. Our All Out A/C technicians work with your schedule, show up on time, and never leave a mess. Whether we’re working with a family with four kids like

281-238-9292

626 Highway 90A, Richmond, TX 77406

www.alloutacandheating.com

floor Passing the Test of Time

This’ll

you!

he day after your carpet is installed or your tiling is finished, it may look great...but you won’t truly know its quality until you put it through the test of time. One local woman, Sonja Childs, says, “Five years ago I went to All About Carpet and Flooring and they did all the upstairs carpet for me. They did a great job and I was really pleased with the quality of the products they use. In fact, that carpet still looks so good that I’ve just had them redo the carpet in my master bedroom, too!” They say the best recommendation is a repeat customer! Sonja says, “I always like to use neighborhood business when I can, and All About Carpet’s been here for years! The second time I called them was for a major remodeling project, my first big one! In addition to redoing the master bedroom carpet, they redid my entire bathroom. I had always hated the glass in my shower, so they pulled the shower out and tiled it, took out my old counter tops and replaced them with new

granite, and did new tile on the floor. They installed granite around my tub and they put glass tiles around the edge of that so the look really came together.” You don’t have to be an interior designer to redo the look of your bathroom or kitchen... you just need an expert to show you the possibilities! Sonja says, “I had to ask for a lot of advice about the shower, and Bob was great. He showed me all kinds of pictures so I could see the different options and really get an idea of how they would work together. That helped me make a decision! Then when Angel came out to do the tile work, he had an occasional question about what I wanted. He clearly knew what he was doing and could make suggestions or give me some ideas, so that made it really easy for me to tell him what I wanted done. He was just awesome!” “The products that Bob, Renee and Shaun have in their showroom are really good quality and their advice was extremely helpful. In fact,” Sonja adds, “I’m so happy with the carpet from five years ago and the work they did for me on this big job that I would absolutely use them again and would recommend them to anyone!” Bob, Renee, and Shaun invite you to come to their showroom and see the possibilities for yourself. Bob says, “We’d like to be your store for flooring, counters, and tile for years to come!” All About Carpet and Floors 281-265-3700 3145 Highway 6 South (next to Shipley’s) www.allaboutcarpet.com

To advertise, 281-235-0600

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“Patients usually come to see me because their varicose veins are painful and embarrassing, but varicose veins are a vascular health problem,” says Vascular Surgeon Ulises Baltazar, MD.

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When (and Where!) to Look for Help

ore than 12 million Americans suffer from varicose veins. You know, those blue, bulging veins that can make us self-conscious about wearing shorts or a cute summer dress. But did you know they’re more than an aesthetic problem? “Patients usually come to see me because their varicose veins are painful and embarrassing, but varicose veins are a vascular health problem,” says Vascular Surgeon Ulises Baltazar, MD. “When the valves in your veins are unhealthy, blood can then flow backward and pool inside the vein, so it swells...leading to venous diseases like spider veins, varicose veins and venous stasis ulcers.Varicose veins increase your chance of blood clots in the superficial system called thrombophlebitis and can be associated with potentially lethal clots in the deep system called deep venous thrombosis (DVT)...so it’s crucial to seek help.” Once you decide to seek help for your vein problems, where should you go? While an “occasional” vein doctor may be able to treat a simple problem, wouldn’t you rather go to a doctor who can recognize and treat more uncommon or subtle vein problems? A “part-time” vein doctor, who primarily practices in a specialty other than phlebology, might not recognize the pitfalls and complications that may occur. Not only that, but choosing a vascular surgeon guarantees you’ll have an expert with the dexterity and skill to tie off and divide a vein well below the skin level, if needed. Dr. Baltazar says, “Most procedures we use for varicose veins are minimally invasive. We might start with compression stockings, then consider scelrotherapy, vein stripping, or laser ablation. At Sugar Land Vein Specialists, I have a range of solutions with a single goal... to provide you healthy relief from varicose veins!”

Winner of the 2011 Patients’ Choice Award, Dr. Baltazar’s been board-certified by the American Board of Surgery in General Surgery with special certification in Vascular Surgery for over a decade. He was one of the pioneers of endovascular surgery at East Tennessee State University and performed the first case of Mechano-Chemical Ablation (MOCA) in Texas. He’s had years of training, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the arteries and veins and extensive experience in placing needles, guide wires, using lasers, ultrasound and the latest technology and techniques. Why does Dr. Baltazar keep up with all the latest vascular developments? Because veins are more than his profession...they’re his passion. He says, “I believe your elegant circulatory system deserves special attention from a specialist! If you’re interested, I hope to see you at one of my Free Vein Seminars at the Methodist Hospital. I have information on my website and our Facebook page!”

Ulises Baltazar MD,RVT,FACS Sugar Land Vein Specialists 281-201-6052 16605 Southwest Freeway Ste 505 (in the Methodist Professional Building 3) http://www.slveins.com/

Body by Ahmadi T

Make a Splash in Your Swimsuit!

ired of feeling self-conscious at the pool or less-than-hot at the beach? The secret to a bikini body is tightening up and smoothing out bumps and bulges for a naturally curvy figure. Easier said than done? Not with the expert artistry of Dr. Ahmadi at Avante Plastic Surgery. Dr. Ahmadi is double-board certified, with certifications from the American Board of Surgery as well as the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the only specialty recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties to provide all aspects of cosmetic surgery. With his expertise flat abs, a trim waist, and a look you’ll love are all within your reach!

love seeing how our patients’ lives are changed for the better!” Another happy Avante patient writes: “I was extremely nervous about having my procedure at first, but was put at ease by Dr. Ahmadi and his staff. They are very friendly, helpful, and they took great care of me. Dr. Ahmadi did not rush me through my consultation, he wanted all my questions answered and he explained fully what the procedure would do for me. He seemed to have a genuine concern for my overall health. I feel quite fortunate to have found Dr. Ahmadi and am very happy with my results!”

Ready to make your summers sizzle again? Once you love the way you look, you’ll enjoy amazing confidence that will kick your life into high gear. Dr. Ahmadi has received recognition for his trademarked Lipotuck™ procedure, which combines a tummy tuck and liposuction to create a firm, curvy figure. One of Dr. Ahmadi’s patients writes: “My experience at Avante has been wonderful! The best part of it all is that I feel like the real me now. My selfconfidence is back. Lipotuck is the best decision I’ve made! Thank you for all you’ve done. Can’t wait for summer...to finally be comfortable enough to wear a bikini for the first time!” Ready to make your summers sizzle again? Once you love the way you look, you’ll enjoy amazing confidence that will kick your life into high gear. Dr. Ahmadi has received recognition for his trademarked Lipotuck™ procedure, which combines a tummy tuck and liposuction to create a firm, curvy figure. Dr. Ahmadi says, “Whether a patient starts at a size 2 or a size 16, the Lipotuck™ is completely-customized, so that each individual patient gets the very best results possible. My team and I don’t want you to put your life on hold until you look the way you’ve always dreamed. Our combination of artistry and surgery can make your dreams come true. We

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How long have you been dreaming of making a splash in your swimsuit? Make this the summer you take the plunge...and Dr. Ahmadi will make your dreams come true!

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

www.265BODY.com

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Do You Know the Three “P’s” of Good Health?

n school they teach the three physician and the pharmacist.” Why do physicians love working with R’s––Reading, ‘Riting, and If you, as a patient, think a comcompounding pharmacists? Because good pounding pharmacy might be the ‘Rithmatic––but for your health you’ll need a different set compounding pharmacists like Dr. Campbell right choice, it’s important to be and his team are problem-solvers. your own advocate. Dr. Campbell of three. Dr. Lance Campbell, offers informational sessions and Pharm. D., R.Ph. says, “Faceto-face collaboration between one one-on-one appointments with physiPhysician, one Patient, and one compounding Pharmacist cians to answer any questions. He says, “We make it easy makes up the triad of compounding. That personal relationfor doctors to work with us and easy for patients to comply ship between these three “P’s” ensures that there’s accuwith their doctor’s recommendations. We might mix a cream rate, clear communication between you, your doctor, and for people with RA or joint problems, compound height/ your pharmacist. Better communication means less chance weight-appropriate pediatric medications, injections for of mistakes, better safety, and better patient compliance... impotency, medications for veterinarians, or provide alternafor better health!” tive dosage options for hospice patients. In every single case, Why do physicians love working with comthe ultimate goal is to help the phypounding pharmacists? Because good compoundsician and patient achieve patient ing pharmacists like Dr. Campbell and his team compliance. We work with physiare problem-solvers. Dr. Campbell says, “We can cians for the benefit of patients.” mix a cream that helps with nausea and vomiting If you’re looking for personaland has a six-month shelf life, so a doctor’s office ized health solutions, remember can have it on hand. If a patient needs a specific the three “P’s.” Dr. Campbell says, dosage of medication for thyroid or hormonal “First, the patient has to have a problems, we can compound something customneed, then the physician makes a tailored to a physician’s requirements. If a patient diagnosis, and the pharmacist comhas trouble swallowing pills, we can suggest other pounds a solution. All three parts options like creams, transdermal gels, or flavored work together for you!” chews. Many doctors in our community call up and tell me a little bit about a patient’s history, their age, the nature of their injury, and any speCampbell’s Compounding Pharmacy cific challenges...and then I’ll throw out some 281-980-2555 ideas. Ultimately, the doctor chooses the best 4760 Sweetwater Blvd. Suite 103 option for the patient. Nothing is compounded www.CampbellsCompounding.com without all three parties involved: the patient, the

Sarah Warburton

At Your Service

lassic heroes like Batman and Spiderman defeat the villain to save the day, but sometimes you need a Classic Super Hero to defeat your problems and save your ride. Fortunately for Fort Bend, Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land has been awarded the Houston Chevrolet Service Hero Award for the 3rd Straight Quarter! Don Kerstetter says, “We all take deep, personal pride in knowing that our service department took 1st place out of 53 dealers based on new Vehicle Customer Retention, Service Leads, On-time Response, Service Training Standards completion, and Customer Satisfaction Index scores.” You don’t have to drive a Chevrolet to love Classic Chevrolet’s stellar service. One Classic customer writes: “After Saturn closed I started taking my Outlook to Classic, since they’re an authorized Saturn repair shop. I’ve been there for oil changes, a repair, and to the collision and restoration center after a hit-and-run. Classic’s customer service, thoroughness, communication, and price are consistently top notch! Customer Service and Price can’t be beat. I recently priced around to have the headlamp replaced on my daughter’s Mazda3. I got estimates at the Mazda dealership, a local independent shop and then Classic. The Classic Collision Center’s estimate is HALF the

cost of the other two. Keep up the fabulous work, Classic!” We all know someone who’s backed into the garage door or had a “driveway accident.” Another Classic customer writes, “My wife hit my car backing out of the garage. I thought it would cost me a fortune out of pocket, since I could not claim it on my insurance. I took my car several places to get estimates and Classic Chevy Houston gave me the best price! They had my car looking like brand new in no time and they treated me extremely well. The advisor called me regularly to let me know what was going on and the final cost was actually less than what I thought it was going to be, that has never happened to me before!. I will always take my vehicles there from now on! Classic Chevy Houston has the best collision center in Houston. Thank you Classic!” Does your car needs a little pick-me-up or does your pick-up need major repairs? Don says, “Whether we’re talking about our sales, our service, or our collision center, we’re committed to offering your friendly, dependable Classic service!” Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land 281-491-9000 13115 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.classicchevysugarland.com

Classic Chevrolet’s Collision & Restoration Center has been awarded the prestigious “2011 AutocheX Premier Achiever” designation for excellence in customer service and satisfaction. The repair facility at Classic Chevrolet in Sugar Land is one of only 400 Premier Achiever Award winners in 2011, representing the top 1% of nearly 50,000 repair facilities in the U.S. and Canada.

Next Stop...St. Michael’s! Always the Best for Your Friends and Family Courtney McIlvoy hen Sugar Land city councilwoman Amy Mitchell needed an emergency room for her mother, she turned to St. Michael’s Emergency Rooms. Founded by Dr. Shannon Orsak and his brother, Brian, St. Michael’s was started by a family, and will treat you like family in any emergency situation, big or small.

As Amy thinks back to her first experience with St. Michael’s, she remembers having dinner with her mother. “Her face suddenly turned pasty white and she couldn’t speak coherently...I thought of Dr. Orsak, who I had met on the campaign trail. I knew he’d be kind to her,” Amy says. She was not disappointed upon arriving at St. Michael’s. “It’s a very attractive setting. Somebody greets you when you walk in. It’s very comfortable,” Amy says. “The best part is, you really don’t have to wait at all!” When they walked into St. Michael’s, Amy’s mother was seen immediately and cared for by a highly trained staff. Amy describes the staff at St. Michael’s as, “professional, qualified, caring, competent, and exceptional.” Whether you’re a first time or returning patient, St. Michael’s strives to make patients and their families as comfortable as possible in stressful situations.

“Her face suddenly turned pasty white and she couldn’t speak coherently... While it was the first, the incident with her mother was not the last time Amy has taken a loved one to St. Michael’s. When her best friend called to say that she dislocated her shoulder, Amy immediately thought of St. Michael’s. “She tripped on something and landed on her shoulder. Although another emergency room was closer, I drove all the way from Richmond and made her go to St. Michael’s because I knew they’d take the best care of her,” Amy remembers. Once again, the patient was taken in and treated quickly. “It was prompt and it could not have been a more pleasant experience for something so unpleasant,” Amy says. “They also sent her home with all the information she needed for any follow-up visits with her own doctor. The doctors and nurses at St. Michael’s are completely professional and extremely conscientious.” Not only do they have quality care, experienced staff, and no waits, St. Michael’s loves to give back to the community. “They support the community in every possible way, giving to schools, sports teams, the women’s shelter, and other worthy causes. Dr. Orsak and the staff at St. Michael’s really believe in giving back,” Amy says. In an emergency, make your next step St. Michael’s Emergency Rooms. You’ll never look back!

Iris Mitchell, Amy Mitchell and William Loose-Mitchell

St. Michael’s Emergency Rooms Dr. Shannon Orsak and his brother, Brian. St. Michael’s was started by a family, and will treat you like family!

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16062 SW Freeway (at Hwy 6) Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-980-HELP

9000 Westheimer Houston, TX 77063 713.343.0911

26226 I 45 N. Spring, TX 77386 281.419.2911

www.StMichaelsER.com www.upclosemagazine.com

Smile...You’re On Camera!

Custom Smile Cam

Sarah Warburton

Come in as a patient and leave as a friend!

hen you’re laughing with friends, you’re not worried about your smile. “And you shouldn’t be,” says Dr. Thomas Lomonte, DDS. “Fishing with your buddies, hanging out with friends, or taking your kids to a ball game are times for having fun and making memories. If someone snaps a photo of your smile or we catch you on our “Smile Cam” at a Skeeters game, we want you to love the way you look. Give us a call any time, and we’ll help you love flashing the world your smile.” Smile and the world smiles with you...and Fort Bend’s been smiling with Dr. Lomonte’s help for the last twenty-eight years! Why do people say they come in as a patient and leave as a friend? Dr. Lomonte says, “We’re serious about giving you a healthy beautiful smile...but we don’t believe in frowning at work! Having a good time with the people I see makes every day a good time!” Patients feel the same way! One says, “I had good laughs and the best time I ever had at a Dentist’s office. Great staff with a sense of humor. My teeth look good also. Like a painless party!” Looking for the perfect present for a recent graduate, a bride-to-be, or a summer treat for yourself? Nothing sets off a tan (real or spray-on) like a gleaming white smile.If age, genetics, drinking coffee, tea, or red wine, eating blueberries, or using tobacco have dulled your smile, Dr. Lomonte says, “We recommend in-office Colgate Visible White to remove both surface and embedded stains from teeth...for a smile that’s six to eight shades lighter in a single treatment!” Not only will you feel like a friend in Dr. Lomonte’s office, you’ll want to see his friendly face out and about. He says, “Stop by our booth at a Skeeter’s game or look for me around town and we’ll give you a coupon for $75 off an in-office whitening. Not only that, but we’ll enter you in

a drawing to win a completely free teeth-whitening treatment in July. Of course, you can always call the office to schedule a free smile consultation or come in to enter the drawing. I can’t wait to see you smile!” Thomas M. Lomonte, D.D.S. 12122 Murphy Rd., Stafford, TX 77477 (281) 530-1440 www.drthomaslomonte.com

Seasonal Tips to Save Your Plumbing

Sarah Warburton very summer your plumbing’s under pressure. Whether you see water spilling into the street or dripping from your ceiling, choosing a locally-owned, familyrun plumber can save you money! For years Fort Bend’s favorite Master Plumber Alan Burkhalter, has solved our plumbing problems

with his two brothers Chris and Brian, his three sons, and fellow team member Zach. Alan’s sons Beau, Luke and Jake have been riding the truck with their dad and uncles since they were only eight or nine and Alan’s wife Jennifer or his mom answers the phone when you call. This year Jake graduated from Clements and will be playing football at Howard Payne University in the fall. Alan’s Plumbing keeps their overhead low to pass those savings on to you! A tip for minimizing the dangers of a cracked foundation and pressure on those pipes is to water your foundation so the soil never gets completely dried out and the ground won’t shift so much. When soil contracts under drought then expands with sudden rainfall, the water main beneath a home can crack just like your foundation. It’s the homeowner’s responsibility, not the city’s, to fix a broken water main under a home. If you shut off your water main but water continues to pool around your sprinklers, shut off your vacuum breaker and call Alan’s Plumbing. If you see water dripping through your light fixtures or your bar sink

To advertise, 281-235-0600

keeps gurgling or fills up with water, call Alan’s Plumbing. Your air conditioner can get clogs in the condensation line which pipes into the main plumbing. Alan and his team don’t blow out the lines, instead they’ll use a cable and flush it with bleach. Before you leave town on vacation, set your water heater on “vacation mode” to conserve energy...but don’t turn off the water to your house. If you do that you could get junk in your pipes and have to call Alan’s team to unclog your ballcock and flapper. Remember to give your neighbor your spare key...and the number for Alan’s Plumbing at 281-261-1064. They’ve got the can-do attitude and practical plumbing sense to save you dollars and cents! Alan’s Plumbing 281-261-1064

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Staying Power Becca Bragg

f you’re new in town, you but someone who can diagnose your might think that all air A/C or heat problems, then recommend conditioner companies and implement solutions. Whether it’s a are created equal.The truth simple repair or a new Trane A/C system, is, too many homeowners We’re always just a phone call away!” Jackson Air’s got the experience to go have been burned by fly-bynight companies that installed the distance. Winners for the second year in a row of the BBB Award low-end systems. When those of Excellence and the Angie’s List Super Service Award, customers rave air conditioners conked out about this locally-owned, family-run business that does the job right. One in five years, the companies customer writes: “Our upstairs unit went out in the midst that installed them “We’re not new were long gone! of record breaking 100 degree plus temps the night before we were due to leave for a trip. Choose an A/C players at this game. daughter was staying in the house, so I was company with We started Jackson Air My staying power. panicked. I called Connie at 5 pm, and she Brian Jackson of Conditioning in 1982. sent someone out first thing the next day. My dad met the technician, and they rigged our Jackson Air says, “We’re not new players at this dying unit to work temporarily until we got home. They took care of game. We started Jackson Air everything in such a professional manner, and made it possible for us Conditioning in 1982. We know through experience that Trane has the to enjoy our anniversary trip despite the A/C problems. When we got quality, reliability and technology needed to keep our customers comfort- back, we took advantage of Jackson Air’s interest-free financing plan. able no matter how hot and humid this summer gets...and today we’re the Everyone was very helpful, professional, efficient and honest! And they treated us like family!” oldest Trane Comfort Specialist in Sugar Land!” If you want your toilet fixed, your pool cleaned, or your termites treated, this isn’t the company for you. Jackson Air specializes exclu- Jackson Air and Heating, Inc. sively in air conditioning and heating systems and they love what Sugar Land’s Oldest Independent Trane Dealer they do! Brian says, “When we send a technician to your home, we’re 281-240-1037 sending an expert. Not an exterminator, not a pool boy, not a plumber www.LicensetoChill.us

Working long hours at the computer? Sarah Warburton hey say that the “eyes are the windows to the soul,” but they’re also your window to the world. If life’s looking a little blurry, it’s time for your annual optometric appointment. Missouri City’s Anh Doan says, “We use the most up-to-date vision care technology to protect the health of your eyes and the quality of your vision. Whether you’re an athlete, a homebody, working long hours at the computer or planning a vacation road trip, we’ve got the right lens for you!” Are your glasses up to date? Dr. Doan says, “We’ve got frames in shapes and styles to flatter every face...and lenses have come a long way from a choice between single vision and bifocals. Progressive lenses have three different prescription strengths without any visible lines. Aspheric and atoric lenses are 30 to 45 percent thinner than standard lenses. Polycarbonate lenses are impact-resistant and great for sports, safety, and children! High index plastics are substantially thinner than plastic lenses. Then we can treat those lenses

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to be anti-reflective, polarized to block glare, scratch resistant, UV protective, or (if you don’t want to keep switching your sunglasses and regular glasses), you might choose Photochromic lenses that change from light to dark and back by responding to UV light and temperature. We even have lenses designed specifically for computer work! You

www.upclosemagazine.com

can express your personality and enjoy your life with the right frames and lenses!” Whether your sport’s baseball, swimming, or online Fantasy Football, the right eyewear can improve your game. Dr. Doan says, “Some contact lenses are designed to give you extra clarity for specific sports and offer UV filters. We have bifocal contacts, lenses for people with astigmatism, even ones you can wear night and day for a few weeks! If you play sports, please choose safety goggles. Your regular glasses can shatter and damage your eyes. Either wear protective sports goggles over your contacts or let me fix you a pair of prescription goggles. I can treat them to offer UV protection just like sunglasses...perfect for sunny summer games” “The key to seeing clearly,” says Dr. Doan, “is seeing me yearly for your annual exam. We’ll keep your ‘windows to the world’ strong and healthy!” Dr. Anh Doan, O.D. Vision Source! 4725 Highway 6 South 281-261-2647 www.visionsource-missouricity.com

Four Hours to Fabulous D

Amy Sharp oes your honey-do list include a weather-beaten front door? Is the HOA “beating down your door” to get it refinished? What if you could have it finished and crossed off that list in four short hours?

The craftsmen at Rick’s Front Doors can do just that! Whether your door is wood or fiberglass, they take your door from distressed to fabulous without it ever leaving your driveway. Owner Rick Davis says “Our team really loves getting to know people and doing the job right. We’re celebrating over five years in the business and were pleased to be winners of the 2011 Angie’s List Super Service Award for Excellence. We’re also

members of the BBB, and we offer one hundred percent total satisfaction.” Let’s face it, come drought or flood or summer sun, the Texas weather is brutal to your door. Rick’s proven process can restore it to its original beauty. After removing the door from its hinges, the team strips it down, repairs any minor damage, thoroughly sands and stains it in the color of your choice. Then four coats of Helmsman UV protecting spar urethane are applied to your door. All of this protection from the elements is included, plus at this time Rick is offering to install a FREE weather strip if your door needs it, to keep out the heat and the critters! The team then reinstalls to door to its hinges and you have a fabulous front door! Your team will even install new hardware if you provide it! Your fiberglass door may be durable, but its finish may fade, crack, and peel just like the finish on a wooden door. Rick’s team can handle fiberglass doors just as well as wooden ones, and they have a special trick to defeat sun damage. Rick says, “By adding two additional coats of UV-Protective Armor Coat to your beautiful wooden or fiberglass front door, you’re extending the life of your door’s finish, saving money in the future, and adding value to your home!”

Visit Rick’s Front Door’s Facebook page and you’ll see what a difference four hours could make. (You may even see some photos of Rick’s team taken by happy customers). Then, call Mrs. Terry and cross “Refinish Front Door” off your to-do list. Rick’s skilled professionals only need four hours to make your front door fabulous! Rick’s Front Door Refinishing 713-427-2487 www.aprettydoor.com

METHODIST SUGAR LAND NEUROLOGY ASSOCIATES Personal attention, high-tech care for your peace of mind Dr. Eddie Patton, Jr., and Dr. M. Faisal Khan are pleased to welcome Larry Tran, M.D., to Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates. Together they offer diagnosis and treatment of the most common — and most complex — neurological disorders. From sleep apnea, migraines, epilepsy and dementia, to complex spine, peripheral neurological disorders and neuromuscular disorders, the physicians at Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates can provide answers and options using the latest in technology and therapeutic techniques, backed by the resources and staff of Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. Regain your quality of life. Call Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates today.  Larry Tran, M.D., Eddie L. Patton Jr., M.D. and M. Faisal Khan, M.D.

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Board-certified neurologists with a special emphasis on neurophysiology, neuromuscular disorders and sleep medicine. Located on the Methodist Sugar Land Hospital campus in Medical Office Building Two, Suite 131. Call 281-494-6387 to schedule an appointment.

Medical Office Building Two 16659 Southwest Freeway, Suite 131 Sugar Land, Texas 77479 • 281-494-6387 MethodistSugarLandDocs.com

To advertise, 281-235-0600

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Updating a Home’s ‘80s Decor

Sarah Warburton hen it’s time to put your house on the market and your realtor insists you make all those little changes you’d been putting off...you realize how great your home could have looked all this time! If you’ve been living with the same tacky wallpaper or out-dated color scheme the previous owners inflicted on your house, it’s time for a change. Jonee and Paul Barnett, owners of Miracle Method Surface Restoration, say, “The only miracle it takes to change your kitchen or bathroom completely is the Miracle Method. Give us just a few days and we’ll give you the home of your dreams!” If your bathroom is a flashback to the eighties and your kitchen’s like a time capsule, you don’t have to wait for a miracle––go out there and get one! Miracle

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12 ~ UPCLOSE ~ June 2012

Method transforms porcelain, ceramic, laminate, acrylic, or cultured marble countertops, tubs, and tiles without ripping them out. After your original counters are cleaned, scratches and chips repaired and grout lines sealed, you can custom-create the perfect shade for your finish, choose a finish that looks like natural stone, or request a “color match” to coordinate with your décor. That’s how corporate clients like Disney and Hilton keep their décor current...and DIY Network, This Old House, and the Today Show are believers, too! You don’t have to budget time and money for years to make big changes in your home. Miracle Method saves up to 75 percent over the cost of removal and replacement...and even the biggest jobs and multiple surfaces take less than a week. Paul says, “Usually we’re in and out in just a day or two. I can’t tell you how many customers say, ‘If I’d known how easy this was and how good it would look, I would have done it ten years ago!’ Honestly, we love making big changes without a lot of fuss for you!” Why not enjoy a “ready-to-show” look in the home you’ll live in for years? Jonee says, “Whether you’re getting a house ready to put on the market or making a new home into your own, we’ve got a miracle for you! Call us for a free estimate and visit our website to see the miracles we’ve made.” Miracle Method Surface Refinishing 281-240-2284 603 Murphy Road, Stafford, TX (by appointment only) www.miraclemethod.com/houstonsw

www.upclosemagazine.com

Make Every Day Sparkle

by Sarah Warburton

f you’re tired of trying to mop the floor after the kids are asleep, struggling to squeeze cleaning into your daily routine, or greeting your guests with dishwater hands, call on the professionals! Max McCammond, owner of Professional Maid Service says, “Our Professional Maids are bonded and insured, have undergone thorough background checks..and actually enjoy cleaning with name-brand products! We offer no-hassle key drop-off and pick-up to put a little extra sparkle in your life!” You can relax and enjoy your celebration, knowing the professionals handled the cleaning! One client writes: “When having a house cleaned for a big party, we called The Professional Maid Service. We were definitely not disappointed. Not only was the house spotless, but the staff was exceptional. The staff really took pride in their work and we were impressed with their use of the highest quality cleaning products. They also use knee pads to clean the floors - this just gives you an idea

about their attention to detail. The end result was a spic-andspan house!” Whether you’re putting your house on the market or just trying to keep on top of the day-to-day cleaning, put the Professionals on your speed dial. Susan Engelking writes, “Professional Maid Service did an outstanding job at my home. I’m so excited to have them that I’m recommending them to all my friends.” Elizabeth Starns adds, “I would highly recommend giving Professional Maid Service the chance to come and turn your world around!” Another happy client says, “I never thought I’d actually look forward to cleaning day. Thank you, Professional Maids, for making it my favorite day of the week!”

Cleaning to the “Max” Max’s Cleaning Tip: Cleaning to the Max Tip: Do your “windows to the world” need some work? Save time and money with this professional tip. Get a professional squeegee at any hardware store. Add a drop of dish soap to bucket of cool water and use it to wash the window with a microfiber rag. Remove all water with the squeegee, then wipe up any water left behind with a paper towel. Now enjoy the sparkle of your

Professional Maid Service 281-342-6500 www.professionalmaidservice.com

super-clean windows!

We Specialize in Children ...because kidz are people too

Art Skin The

Complete Skin Care, Skin Enhancements & Treatments. 1112 Soldiers Field Dr., Sugar Land, TX 77479

281-265-2639

❋ Specialist in dentistry for infants, children and adolescents ❋ Now offering Braces and Orthodontic services ❋ Offering Oral and I.V. Sedation ❋ Se Hablo Espanol ❋ Most major insurance accepted ❋ Ask About NO INTEREST PAYMENT PLANS 4706 Riverstone Blvd., Suite 200, Missouri City, TX 77459 Located behind Kohl’s in the Offices at Riverstone

www.littlepeoplesdentistry.com To advertise, 281-235-0600

281.261.0020 UPCLOSE ~ June 2012 ~ 13

“Income tax has made more liars out of the American people than golf.”~Will Rogers

Amy Sharp ut are you a liar? Just how many strokes did you take at the sand trap? Are you sandbagging your handicap? And once you’re home from that relaxing

game of golf, are you sure the “home office” where you store the golf clubs is deductible? It may only be July, but it’s never too early to have a tax plan in place. Unlike the ageold game of golf, taxes are a game of ever-changing rules. With the changing tax code, you could be a liar and not even realize it! The professionals at local firm Trevathan CPA take a proactive vs. reactive approach to tax services. Owner John Trevathan says, “By keeping current on new tax laws and legislation, we are in a position to identify key tax planning opportunities that minimize both your current and future tax liabilities. We provide our individual and business clients with the taxation expertise and knowledge that they deserve throughout the year. For example, it might actually pay for you to forego your college child’s exemption and give her the exemption and the tuition deduction. Some of your home improvements might be a medical deduction. We stay afloat of all the John and friends at The FBC 2012 Celebrity Golf Tournament ins-and-outs and changes to the

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coming year’s tax code….and we’ll help it make sense to you!” Don’t gamble with your tax return. Offthe-shelf tax software is a practical solution if your return is simple and you understand the lingo. But complicated tax issues require analysis and decisions based on the current tax code. John says, “It’s probably worth the price of the return to get it done right. We use the best-in-the-business tax research software to get the best answers to those prickly issues. Then we’ll scan and store all your data and tax return copies in the ‘clouds’, so you’ll be good to go.” Whether you are a small business or individual, don’t let the IRS and changing tax code make a liar out of you. Let Trevathan CPA make taxes an honest breeze…and you can keep the little white lies out on the golf green. John Trevathan, CPA, PLLC 281-207-1333 19901 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.cpajet.com john@cpajet.com

Pre-K to 8th Grade

Extended Hours available until 6:30PM for registered students Homework Assistance Program Registering for the 2012-2013 School Year.

Extracurricular activities include: *Piano *Voice *Guitar *Art

*Chess *Math *Student Council

Private School Interscholastic Assoc. Member 1717 Dulles Ave., Missouri City, TX 77459

Member of

281-208-1403

www.InternationalPreparatorySchool.com 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.

The Simple Secret to Beautiful Skin

Sarah Warburton unshine, stress, and the passing years can take a toll on your skin. What’s the secret to keeping your glow? Simple maintenance! That’s what keeps your car running smoothly, your teeth strong and healthy, and it’s necessary for your skin, too. Starting preventive skin care maintenance early in life protects and preserves your complexion, so you’ll look and stay healthy year after year! What’s the secret to a healthy and youthful looking face? Skin that is hydrated, evenly toned, textured and supple. Bailey Huber, Esthetician Manager at our Sugar Land Kalologie says, “A personal skin analysis and customized maintenance program can combat and even reverse signs of aging like dehydration, fine lines and wrinkles, skin discoloration, large pores, and loss of elasticity and fullness. Just like you take a multi-vitamin or brushing your teeth, care for your skin on a regular basis, too!” Even with a hectic work schedule, crazy kids, and a completely booked calendar, making time for your skin care routine is simple...with a Spa Membership from Kalologie!

The monthly Classic Facial ($59 with membership, $90 without) will repair your skin and provide essential nourishment and protection with a deep pore cleansing and an antioxidant-rich mask. Take your skin care to the next level with a Spa Pass Membership for $89 a month that allows you to choose from one of Kalologie’s four signature facials–– the Signature Facial, the ClearSkin Facial, the Age-Defying Facial or our Vitamin C Facial (normally $120 each). Bailey says, “We take pride in offering comprehensive specific skin care solutions in one convenient location.

Spa Pass Members receive 10% off all medical services, 10% off Kalologie Lab products, Botox at $10/unit (normally $12/unit), and Juvederm for $450/syringe (normally $500/ syringe)...anytime during your membership.” Hollywood-tested, mom-approved! Named one of the top ten skin clinics in the US by “Elle Magazine,” Kalologie has won dedicated celebrity followers including Eva Longoria, Victoria Beckham, Usher, Eric Dane, and Sophia Bush. With a Spa-Pass membership, skin-care maintenance is easy and affordable for everyone, so call Kalologie to schedule your free skin analysis today!

$89 Intro Dermasweep treatment Sign up for a membership and receive your 1st facial FREE Exp 08-01-12

Kalologie Skincare/Medspa 281-265-0880 15890 Southwest Freeway Whole Foods Shopping Center Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.kalologie.com

Established in 1990, we offer 9 locations throughout Fort Bend County. We pride ourselves in making the most delicious fresh pizza, pasta, wings, subs, salads, and desserts using 100% natural ingredients. A Fort Bend Original Voted Best Pizza, we never sacrifice great flavor. By using allnatural ingredients and untreated, unbleached wheat flour, we maximize it! Taste one bite and you will always choose Pepperoni’s for your family.

PIZZA-IT’S ALWAYS A PARTY! 10% OFF

15% OFF

Orders $15 or more Online Code: Pep10

Orders $30 or more Online Code: Pep15

Deliver, Dine-in or Carry-out. Please print this coupon and present to the cashier. One Coupon per person. Offer not good with any other special offers.

Order online, call in, or drop by one of our local stores at your convenience. We are always glad to hear from you at Pepperoni’s.

www.pepperonis.net

First Colony (281) 265-5555 • Sienna (281) 778-7888 Greatwood (281) 545-3333 • Brazos Town Center (832) 595-0550 Pecan Grove (281) 239-6565 • Fulshear (281) 533-0000 New Territory (281) 277-5555 • Riverstone (281) 261-6665 Woodbridge (281) 498-6677

To advertise, 281-235-0600

UPCLOSE ~ June 2012 ~ 15

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/hand therapy, and the most advanced imaging and surgical technologies in the world are available on-site.

Stop enduring pain. Call or email today and begin your personal treatment plan. 281-313-BACK (2225) or SpineCenter@tmhs.org.

16655 Southwest Freeway • Sugar Land, Texas 77479 281-313-BACK (2225) • MethodistSugarLand.com

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