Fulshear Magazine

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Coming this summer. A master planned community in the heart of Fulshear by DHK Development Inc. www.dhkdev.com





TO OUR READERS,

06 PUBLISH ER’S LETTER

It is truly exciting to be able to bring you this, our third issue of Fulshear Magazine. I say that because when George Lane approached my wife, Jenni and me about creating a magazine to showcase the greater Fulshear area, we knew the reward would be the excitement of getting to know more about our community every day - and we have. We also knew that Fulshear Magazine would have to continue in our commitment to provide entertaining and informative content for our readers and to showcase our advertisers respectfully each and every issue. I am proud to say that our writers, photographers, and our art director have worked tirelessly to exceed your expectations through their work.

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Since our previous issue, we have continued to receive tremendous support from our readers as well as our advertisers regarding the quality of Fulshear Magazine and the content presented in it. The comments and feedback remind us of the importance of this publication to the community and of our responsibility to represent the greater Fulshear area well. We intend to keep doing just that. In this issue, we are pleased to bring you great articles and information from interesting people and businesses in and around our community that impact and benefit life in the greater Fulshear Area. You may have heard of some of them and others may be brand new to you. Either way, I’m sure you will enjoy learning more about them and how they influence the Fulshear lifestyle. One last thing - this magazine would not be possible, were it not for the support of our advertisers. Thanks to the commitment they have made to advertise in this publication, we are able to provide you with the enduring resource that Fulshear Magazine has become. Please support our advertisers with your business - and do so as often as you can. Also, please tell them thank you from us if you don’t mind. On behalf of my business partner George Lane, my wife, Jenni and the entire staff at Fulshear Magazine, we invite you to dig into the depth that you’ll find within the pages of this publication. We sincerely hope you enjoy this issue of Fulshear Magazine. See you this winter! Respectfully,

Daniel McJunkin

PUBLISHER - FULSHEAR MAGAZINE

Photo by Katie Mecham



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MAGAZINE STAFF

On the Cover FC

Photo by Nancy Jones Photography

Letter from the Publisher 06 By Way of Polo 12

A Glimpse Into A Local Polo Player’s Life

Texas Mountain Lions 18 Fulshear Area Cemeteries 23

Our Silent Link to Fulshear’s Historic Past

Fusion At Its Best 30 Fulshear Is My Favorite Subject 34 Put-ter There, Partner! 40 A Place to Call Home 44 Art Inspired By Scripture 50 Awesome Alligators 52 Making Fitness Personal 56 From Veteran Navy Pilot 60

To Veteran Congressman, Meet Pete Olson

DAN M c JUNKIN Publisher

KATIE MECHAM Art Director

JENNI M c JUNKIN Media Director

NANCY JONES

Director of Photography

JACLYN RITTER Staff Writer

KRISTOPHER ELLIOTT Editor

ALLISON CLOWER Business Development Manager

DON M c COY

Chamber Consultant

PRODUCTION STAFF SHAY TIDWELL Production Manager

BONNIE M c FERREN Bookkeeping

EFREN GARCIA Accounting

JOSEPH SONNIER IT Consultant

Cheesy Butternut Squash Cavatappi Bake 63 Fall Recipe

Furniture With A Story 64 Experts Say Right Exercise 66 Can Boost Brain & Body

My War With Water Hyacinths 68 River Cruising 72 Fulshear Area Chamber 74 of Commerce Chamber Directory 75 Advertiser Directory 78

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS JOE DOGGETT CJ McDANIEL TERRI OLIVER DOUG PIKE MARCIA SIMMONS BRENDA BEUST SMITH

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS NANCY JONES PHOTOGRAPHY KATIE MECHAM JACLYN RITTER KIT JONES

FULSHEAR MEDIA PARTNERS, LLC GEORGE LANE & DANIEL M c JUNKIN Principals

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FULSHEAR MAGAZINE 281-973-0633

4017 Penn Lane, Fulshear, TX 77441

© Copyright 2015 - Fulshear Media Partners, LLC All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

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BY WAY OF POLO

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BY WAY OF

POLO

F ULSHEA R MA G A ZIN E

A G L I MPSE INTO A LOCAL P R O F E S S I ONAL POLO PLAYER’S LIFE

Photos by Kaylee Wroe


Marcos Villanueva

Photo by Nancy Jones Photography

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hile the exact origin of polo is unknown, it is safe to say it was being played over two thousand years ago, making it the oldest team sport. This powerful, often beautiful sport is a physically and mentally demanding one, both on the horse and rider. It is a balance of strength and finesse. Marcos Villanueva, a Fulshear resident, knows the extent of this first hand. Having played professionally for over twenty years, Marcos knows what it takes to succeed on and off the polo field.

It does not hurt that they lived in the polo mecca either. The best players and horses come out of Argentina. In fact all 10 goal handicaps (see side bar for explanation) call Argentina home. Many in the sport agree, however, that the best players come from a family of players. Passing on the skills, knowledge and understanding of the sport is priceless. Marcos learned early how to find the soul of horse, a horse that has the heart for the sport. This kind of understanding and appreciation is passed down through generations. “I couldn’t have done it without my dad,” adds Marcos.

LEARNING & EXPLORING

Polo is not played professionally in Argentina. Argentina is the place to go to buy horses, train and better your game. Players have to look outside of the country if they want to make the sport a career. Marcos came to America for the first time at age 15. He was invited to play polo in Midland, Texas, for the duration of his summer vacation. He returned again at the age of 17 and played another season. Upon returning to Argentina he finished high school. Marcos entered college hoping to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a vet. This was the only thing, other than the sport of polo, he could see himself doing for a career. Meanwhile, his brother Guillermo was playing professionally and received an offer to play in England. When he invited Marcos to join him, Marcos jumped at the opportunity. Two years later, while playing a game in England, they met the Crown Prince Hassan of Jordan. They were invited to return with him to Jordan and play for a few seasons.

THE ART OF POLO Born and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Marcos was introduced to the sport of polo early. His father, Guillermo, is one of his greatest inspirations. Guillermo played polo professionally, all while attending college to become a vet. “Horses were my life from the beginning,” says Marcos. “If I wasn’t watching my dad play polo or train horses, I was with him on vet visits.” Marcos’s older brother, also named Guillermo, caught the polo bug early. While Marcos was playing rugby, his big brother was flying up and down the polo fields. By age 12 Marcos joined his brother on the field for some healthy sibling competition. Together they trained with one of the world’s greatest players, their very own father.

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WRITTEN BY JACLYN RITTER PHOTOGRAPHY BY NANCY JONES PHOTOGRAPHY & KAYLEE WROE


Marcos never looked back when he left the university. Marcos notes that, “the opportunities university provides you in Argentina are not as great as in the states.” “I’ve gotten to travel the world with polo.” Just some of the places the sport has taken him include: England, Thailand, Jordan, Dubai, Egypt, Israel and France. Marcos chose to follow his dream, a dream that has taken him around the world and earned him an impressive 5 goal handicap at the young age of 20.

BY WAY OF POLO

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FINDING A HOME IN

FULSHEAR In 2010, Marcos and his wife, Amanda, were ready to start a family of their own and were in search of a way to stay within the polo community without the constant demands of travel. Marcos took an offer to work for Fulshear residents Carl and Kelly Price. Marcos and Amanda feel blessed they met the Price family. It is because of them they have been able to settle down and make a real living out of what they love most. Marcos is responsible for managing their farm which includes buying, selling and training horses. They currently have 27 polo ponies in training. Marcos and his team feed the horses early in the morning and then take them out for hour long sets. Sets involve riding one horse while having two other horses on either side. This is a way to exercise multiple horses at one time. In the afternoons all 27 ponies are fed and taken on sets once again. Marcos gives each and every horse top notch training, conditioning and feed. “They are athletes to us, they perform as an athlete.” Training is Marcos’s favorite part of the job. “It’s amazing to see how horses can go from knowing nothing to being able to play the demanding sport of polo.” It takes a lot of time and dedication to get a horse to the level of a polo pony. These horses have to have the perfect combination - the speed of a racehorse with the agility of a cutting horse. Marcos has perfected this process and is now highly respected within the polo community. In fact, he has dependable buyers who know his dedication to the sport and the consistent quality of his horses. When Marcos sells a horse he often tracks them and their accomplishments. Seeing how the horse has grown gives him a sense of pride. “That is a success for me because that is something I was a part of.”

FOR THE LOVE

Photos by Nancy Jones Photography

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OF THE GAME While Marcos keeps busy managing the farm and training ponies, he has not let up on the game itself. Carl Price, Marcos’s boss and sponsor, is also his teammate and friend. They play together two to three times a week on the Rocking P Polo Team. “The adrenaline of playing polo is incredible,” says Marcos, who admits he still gets nervous before a match. A way Marcos eases those nerves is through prayer. Before every match Marcos takes a moment to reflect on all of the ways God has blessed him and his family.


Polo is their livelihood. Being able to combine your passion with your everyday job is a true gift. Marcos is also known to be seen drinking mate, an Argentine drink closely resembling an herbal tea, before the start of a match. More of a social experience than a thirst quencher, Marcos enjoys sharing a bit of his culture with his team. This drink is meant to be shared out of respect and as a way of coming together as equals. Marcos plays position number three, this position is usually occupied by the individual with the greatest handicap and most experience. However, a polo player is only as good as their best horse. Marcos is quick to reference the relationship that is formed between a player and their horses. While he takes up to nine ponies for each match, he admits his longtime favorite mare is a horse by the name of Argentina. “Everybody says that I play my best polo when I ride her.” Marcos goes on to say that, “with her you feel like you can win a game, like you are invincible.” In the sport of polo you follow the good weather. Texas in the summertime is simply too hot for the horses. The two families ready their trailers, complete with 27 horses and a bunch of tack, and head towards Jackson Hole, Wyoming. There they join other polo families fleeing from the extreme heat. Marcos enjoys the relaxed Jackson

Hole lifestyle. While he likes the competitiveness of the sport, he admits that for two months out of the year he welcomes the friendly and peaceful life that Wyoming brings. The families use every game as an excuse to throw a BBQ! In a way it is seen as a celebration of the team’s hard work and dedication to the closing polo season.

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LIVING THE DREAM “My home is where my family is,” says Marcos Villanueva. “I could live anywhere as long as I am with my wife and girls.” “I am extremely grateful to the Price family for the freedom they have given me to live such a rewarding life.” Marcos loves being able to raise his two young daughters surrounded by loving people and a barn full of furry friends. He hopes to pass on all the knowledge and love for horses that his father bestowed on to him. This hardworking, honest and humble man feels privileged to be able to share his passion with others. “Everything in our life is a blessing and gift from God.” Out of all the places polo has taken Marcos, the United States remains his favorite. “It is here you can live doing what you love.” By way of polo, Marcos has lived his dream. d For more information about the sport of polo go to www.sportpolo.com To find a local polo schedule go to www.thehoustonpoloclub.com

BASIC RULES OF POLO A team is made up of four polo players who are designated as “attack” or “defense.” The object of the game is to move the polo ball down the field and drive it into the opposing team’s goal. A polo match usually lasts about one and a half hours and is divided into six periods called chukkers. Each chukker is seven minutes long. An official begins the match with a throw-in. A throw-in is also done at the beginning of a new chukker and after each goal. Players change horses between chukkers to give them time to rest and avoid injury. The line of the ball is a “right of way” established by the path of a traveling ball. During half time, spectators go onto the field and participate in “divot stomping,” a tradition that helps replace the divots created by the horse’s hooves.

T EAM POSITIONS

O NE

TWO

THREE

FOUR

Focuses on SCORING goals – must be an accurate hitter

Scorer, but puts more concentration of DEFENSE than number One

Generally the captain of the team, good at determining STRATEGY

Focused primarily on DEFENSE – also referred to as a “back”

P OLO HANDICAPS A polo handicap is a system created by Henry Lloyd Herbert, the first president of the United States Polo Association (USPA), so that teams using players with varying abilities could be more evenly matched. Polo players, both male and female, are ranked yearly by their peers and the USPA on a scale of -2 to 10 goals. The term “goal” does not refer to how many goals scored in a match, instead it indicates the player’s value to the team. This rating takes into account the player’s horsemanship, team play, knowledge of the game, strategy and horses. Handicaps range from -2, referred to as “Novice”, up to a 10-goal which is considered “Perfect” play. IT IS SO DIFFICULT TO EARN A 10-GOAL HANDICAP THAT THERE ARE FEWER THAN 12 IN THE WORLD ROUGHLY TWO-THIRDS OF ALL USPA RATED PLAYERS ARE RATED AT 2 GOALS OR LESS A RATING OF 5 GOALS AND ABOVE OFTEN BELONG TO PROFESSIONAL PLAYERS ALL 10-GOALERS TODAY ARE ARGENTINE

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Each player on the team wears a numbered jersey, one through four, that indicates their position and responsibilities on the field.




TEXAS MOUNTAIN LIONS

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MOUNTAIN

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NOW YOU SEE THEM. NO, YOU DON’T. WRITTEN BY DOUG PIKE

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ccording to scientific data collected over decades by really smart people, there aren’t a lot of mountain lions in Texas. According to folklore, only a couple dozen Texans, half of whom arrived yesterday, have not yet seen a mountain lion.

Law enforcement, rightfully, tends to err on the side of caution where mountain lions and people cross paths. Even if struck squarely with a tranquilizing dart, an adult male mountain lion could still be strong enough to do some damage before the sedative kicks in.

The real deal, of course, a bona fide mountain lion, is hard to mistake for something else – for anything else.

To reiterate, however, legitimate sightings are quite rare, even in Texas. Most game wardens, police officers and county sheriffs never will be called upon to deal with a cougar. Despite what people think they’ve seen, it’s usually something else.

North America’s largest wild cats grow to roughly three feet in body length, maybe a little longer, and that’s before you tack on nearly as much tail. They stand roughly two feet tall, as well, which separates them by significant margin from the continents other cats.

The only way to absolutely confirm where the tawny cats have been in Texas is to mark where there has been valid mountain lion mortality. From the 254 counties in which they have been sighted, only 67 have this type of confirmation.

Casual mention of mountain lions in May, on my radio show (weekend mornings on SportsTalk790 in Houston), generated several calls from listeners who all were certain, beyond doubt, that they’d seen mountain lions here or there across southeastern Texas.

I’m not opposed to the hunting of mountain lions where it is lawful, either for sport or as a means of protecting livestock, but I have no desire to hunt them myself. There’s something about these animals that evokes in me a special level of respect and acknowledgement of their position in the wild food chain.

In fact, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, with over 20 years of data collection, has reports of mountain lion sightings in each and all of the state’s 254 counties – and in the same paragraph qualifies that sightings are not the same thing as confirmed sightings.

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Mountain lions are elusive, solitary animals that, on the whole, do their absolute best to avoid human contact. They’re not always successful. In California this past year, an adult mountain lion wandered into a fairly large city and had to be removed (the hard way, at least on the cat). There and elsewhere, whenever big cats stray too close to human populations, wildlife officers have only two choices. The best-case outcome is a tranquilized cat that’s relocated far, far off the beaten path. Otherwise, to protect human life, the cat must be killed before it even has the chance to shred someone.

That, and they’re just really cool animals. An adult male can weigh 150 pounds and live longer than a decade. Either sex, if necessary, can leap from a standing start high enough to settle onto a second-floor balcony. Cougars are the continent’s most capable and formidable predators south of grizzly country. They eat most anything they can catch, including everything from rodents to elk. They can exist, even thrive, as well in extreme cold as in extreme heat. Their hunting territories are expansive, and they’re respectful of each other’s territories except during breeding periods that seldom last a full week.


Attacks on people, despite our spending millions of hours traipsing through lion country, are nearly as rare as credible sightings. Through 110 years of record keeping on the subject, there have been fewer than 100 documented attacks, and only 17 of those resulted in fatality. For comparison, since the 1960s, there have been 40-something unprovoked shark attacks along the U.S. coastline annually. There are many things on this continent that can kill you and even more that can scratch you up pretty good, but a mountain lion is highly unlikely to be what ultimately does either. And that’s almost equally true whether you hike remote areas daily or spend the better part of your time on a couch. Across southeast Texas specifically and the entire state generally, my single hunting buddies are more likely to encounter two-legged cougars than four-legged ones. Mountain lion sightings make great stories, but next time someone shares such a tale, ask to see the pictures.

Running or turning your back is what rabbits and deer do, and we know what happens to them. Don’t do either.

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AND IF THE COUGAR DOES ATTACK, FIGHT BACK WITH EVERYTHING YOU’VE GOT. Find the eyes or throat if you can navigate past the teeth and claws; make the situation more unpleasant for the cat than even for yourself. That’s your best chance, and it’s a good one. The alternative is unthinkable. d

PUT UP YOUR DUKES In the unlikely event that you find yourself whiskers-to-beard with an ears-back, growling mountain lion, says the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, keep cool. (Easier said than done, I’ll admit.)

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Make yourself large, raising your arms or waving a stick, and maintain eye contact. Speak calmly, and scoop up the kids to keep them from moving suddenly and possibly sparking an attack.

Photo: ©iStock.com/gatito33





FULSHEAR AREA

CEMETERIES

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Our Silent Link to Fulshear’s Historic Past WRITTEN BY DANIEL McJUNKIN, PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL McJUNKIN

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t may be appropriate to say that the last place on earth that any of us wants to find ourselves is at a cemetery. But, unless our ashes are to be scattered elsewhere or our bodies donated to science, a visit to the cemetery will likely be our final option.

FULSHEAR’S FINAL RESTING PLACES We can learn more about our area’s past and witness the relationships that existed between the founders and the early settlers of the area by visiting Fulshear’s local cemeteries. The lives, thoughtfully memorialized through the headstones and monuments found in these traditional community cemeteries, stand ready to tell of the birth, death and in many cases, document the family relationships of those interred there.

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Fulshear has a number of cemeteries across the area. Some are accessible from public roads and streets and are easy to get to. Some are on private land, requiring landowner’s permission for access. All of the area cemeteries are proof of an earlier time.


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Fulshear Cemetery

THREE ACTIVE PUBLIC

CEMETERIES Fulshear has three active public cemeteries, at least two of which are considered to serve specific ethnic groups. As uncomfortable as it makes us, in this day and age, to define a location based on the ethnicity of its population, such distinction appears to be customary when considering final resting places.

F ULSHEA R MA G A ZIN E

FULSHEAR BLACK CEMETERY

FULSHEAR SPANISH CEMETERY

According to the historical marker placed on the site, this historic cemetery is believed to have been founded by slaves who worked on Churchill Fulshear’s original plantation. Burial is reserved for those of AfricanAmerican heritage that are descendants of historic Fulshear area families.

in this cemetery are actively maintained with gardens of live plants, flowers, beautifully constructed memorials, and even mementoes left in honor of those buried there. As the majority of the 287 known gravesites found here are well cared for, it is clear that many families remain close to their loved ones buried here.

An active cemetery, this three acre site has over 87 graves. According to the historical marker, the earliest known grave is that of Rebecca Scott and dates back to 1915. The family plots and individual graves are somewhat spread apart. The headstones range in type and style with some having been cast by hand and some created of chiseled stone. One of the more notable Fulshear family names there is that of the Gordon family.

According to Fulshear native, Mr. Herc Meier, this cemetery was originally known simply as “The Catholic Cemetery”. It is actually a section of the Fulshear Public Cemetery, which is described below. It serves as a reminder of the diversity of Fulshear’s cultural history. The earliest known burial is November 12, 1910.

The Fulshear Black Cemetery is managed by lifelong resident and former Fulshear Mayor, Mrs. Viola Randle of the Fulshear Black Cemetery Association. It can be found just to the west of Fulshear along the south side of FM 1093. This cemetery is accessible to the public.

FULSHEAR SPANISH CEMETERY If a cemetery can be considered as “alive”, then the Fulshear Spanish Cemetery is a great example of a “living” cemetery. Many of the graves and family plots

You will find the Fulshear Spanish Cemetery, located along the west side of Wallis Street on Fulshear’s north side, just south of the Fulshear Cemetery. There is no historical marker present, however this cemetery is accessible to the public.

FULSHEAR CEMETERY According to the historical marker placed on the site, this cemetery was originally known as the “Union Chappel Cemetery”. Per the historic marker, the six acre tract of land was donated to the “Methodist Episcopal Church South” by Churchill Fulshear, Jr. in 1851.


With over 508 gravesites, its population represents some of the earliest settlers in the Fulshear area. Interestingly, a number of those interred here represent some of Fulshear’s founding families. Here you will find the family plots for members of the Bentley, Briscoe, Dozier, Harris, Huggins, Mayes, Meier, and Walker families, as well as many more with historic ties to Fulshear’s past, such as Sethora West. Mrs. West was a lifelong Fulshear resident and beloved Texas historian whose lineage dates back to Texas’ “Old 300”.

The Goss Cemetery is an active cemetery comprised of a mix of ethnicities. As small as it is, it has 58 known graves. The earliest grave is March 29, 1916. This cemetery is accessible to the public. There is no historical marker present.

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PLEASANT HILL MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH CEMETERY Also known as the “Pleasant Hill Cemetery”, this two-acre site has at least 81 known graves. This active cemetery is affiliated with the historic Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church. It is located at the intersection of Bois d’Arc Road and Redbird Lane on Fulshear’s south side. According the historical marker placed on the site, the land was conveyed by J. G. Mayes from the Mason Briscoe estate in 1910. The earliest known burial here is that of Will Brown in 1933. As with other church-affiliated cemeteries, the cemetery sits neatly behind the church. It is an active cemetery and it is accessible to the public.

FULSHEAR CEMETERY Although the Fort Bend County Historical Commission lists this cemetery’s “main name” as the “Fulshear White Cemetery”, the Fulshear Cemetery Association refers to it as the “Fulshear Cemetery.” There is no ethnic limitation regarding its use. According to the historical marker, the earliest grave is that of Mahalia Sparks who died July 22, 1850.

RANDON BOTTOM CEMETERY According to area researcher Mr. Clifton Aldrich, Weston Lakes is home to a cemetery, which is presumed to have been founded by the decedents of slaves or sharecroppers that had lived and worked on or near the “Harris Plantation”. This .68 acre cemetery is known as the “Randon Bottom Cemetery” because it is located within the original land grant known as the “Randon League”.

The Fulshear Cemetery is managed by The Fulshear Cemetery Association. It is located along the west side of Wallis Street on Fulshear’s north side, just north of the Fulshear Spanish Cemetery. This cemetery is accessible to the public.

OTHER HISTORIC

CEMETERIES

GOSS CEMETERY Also known as the “Blakely Farm Cemetery”, this site is located along Winner-Foster road, just to the south of Fulshear. It is a half-acre cemetery, which is perhaps its most interesting feature. Its odd shape is interesting as well, as it appears to be simply carved out of a farmer’s field.

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FULSHEAR FAMILY CEMETERY This cemetery is the original family plot reserved for the Churchill Fulshear Family. It is located on the site of Churchill Fulshear Jr.’s mansion on the north side of FM 1093, near Fulshear’s downtown area. There are ten known graves in this private plot and it is no longer an active cemetery. The earliest date is October 7th, 1859. Access requires the owner’s permission.


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Fulshear Black Cemetery

WADE FAMILY CEMETERY

The Fort Bend Historical Commission records that there are 71 known known burials in this inactive cemetery. According to Mr. Aldrich, research of death certificates indicates that the cemetery was used from 1905 to 1972. Through the research, Mr. Aldrich has been able to identify 36 of the people buried there. He notes that that burials prior to 1905 were probably never recorded. Military veterans within the Weston Lakes community honor the three veterans buried there by maintaining American Flags on their graves and by placing flowers on Veteran’s Day and Memorial Day. The Weston Lakes Property Owner Association owns and maintains the cemetery area. Access requires admittance to the private roads of this gated community.

This historic cemetery is located north of Fulshear on the west side of FM 359 near Brookshire. It is in Waller County on land once owned by William Wade. A historic marker on the site says that Mr. Wade was a large landowner and that he owned over 11,000 acres. The cemetery has two sections. One section serves primarily as the final resting place of the Wade family. The other section is where some of the people that worked for the Wade family throughout the years are buried. The two sections are on land that is now owned by Mr. Ed McMahon. As he tells it, he was surprised to discover the cemetery after he purchased the property. It was in a state of total disrepair. Acting as a conservator for the historic site, Mr. McMahon rehabilitated the site using his own money. Access requires the owner’s permission.

WALKER FAMILY CEMETERY

This historic cemetery is located near Bois d’Arc Road on Fulshear’s South Side. It is situated on land currently being developed by DHK Development. Due to area construction, the cemetery is not currently open to the public.

OTHER AREA CEMETERIES

F ULSHEA R MA G A ZIN E

There are a handful of other small cemeteries that exist in the immediate Fulshear area. Most of these are not active and have no public access. The Fort Bend County Historical Commission maintains records about these cemeteries on their web site. d ACKNOWLEDGEMENT This article was possible due to input, documentation, and review provided by certain groups and people that added valuable details that may not have been known without their input. “Thank you” to Mr. Bob Crosser with The Fort Bend County Historical Commission, Mrs. Viola Randle of the Fulshear Black Cemetery Association, Mr. Herc Meier of the Fulshear Cemetery Association, Clifton Aldrich, and Mr. Ed McMahon for their sharing their input and providing their patient assistance.

WADE FAMILY CEMETERY

WANT TO KNOW MORE? To learn more about the cemeteries referenced in this article, please follow this link. www.fulshear.com/?p=15520.




Rachel Durham

Nancy King

Erin Kugler (281) 818-0853

(713) 819-4174

Asha King

Angie Maxwell

Christy Bohlen

Joe Heckman

Tracy Gremillion

Becky Rosser

Kathie Lauhoff

Tricia Gustafson

(832) 857-4550

(281) 788-0511

(281) 723-9890

(713) 503-5171

(832) 651-5521

(832)330-7476

(832) 795-1915

(713) 562-8502

Fran Dahl

(281) 684-4992

(832) 563-0916


FUSION AT ITS BEST

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Fusion at its Best WRITTEN BY JACLYN RITTER, PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE MECHAM

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hen it comes to satisfying the whole family’s cravings, Yong’s Asian Fusion and Sushi is the place to go. Located on FM 1093 in Fulshear, Yong’s offers a little something for everyone – Korean, Chinese, Japanese, hand rolled sushi and even some good ‘ol American classics. No one will leave disappointed!

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Restaurant owner, YONG KOLKMAN, grew up in South Korea. At an early age Yong was exposed to restaurant life. Her cousin, and greatest influence, ran the kitchen at her Aunt’s restaurant. Having spent a lot of time observing and helping wherever needed, she picked up on the skills and techniques needed to be a good restauranteur. “Cooking has always been my passion,” notes Yong. After following her husband, Dean, to Burlington, Iowa, where he worked as a corn and bean farmer, she knew it was time to start her own restaurant. Her first business was so successful that after only two years she was able to move to a new, much larger location. When it came time for Dean to retire, they settled on Fulshear, Texas, a welcomed change after the frigid temperatures of the North. The Kolkman’s plan was to retire together, only Yong was not quite ready to put aside her love of cooking and running a restaurant. In December of 2012 Yong’s Asian Fusion and Sushi opened in Fulshear. This family friendly restaurant caters to everyone! Try her General Chicken, Bulgogi Beef Ribs (Korean marinated beef rib), and an impressive line of Sushi. Yong’s personal favorite, the house stir fry 3-meat combo platter. In a nod to her Asian culinary roots, Yong smiles and says “I like my dishes spicy.” Having recently experienced a high demand for her Korean Bulgogi Beef, Yong has happily responded by adding more varieties of this Korean staple to the menu.


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Consistency is key to any successful restaurant. With three outstanding chefs, Cassey, Tory, and Crystal, you can count on good quality and delicious flavor each and every time you visit. Many families take advantage of the catering and delivery options. In fact, 40% to 50% of sales are from delivery and pickup alone. No matter whether you dine in or carry out, you are sure to get a top notch meal.

Yong’s famous sauce collection.

Chefs Cassey, Tory, & Crystal, Yong and her husband Dean.

“I love pleasing people with my food. ” Yong continues by saying, “I really enjoy seeing people’s faces when they try something of mine for the first time.” One of the most common feedback received from diners is about her delicious homemade sauces. In 2012 she began bottling her three most popular ones, her Soy Sauce, Miso Salad Dressing and Teriyaki sauce. “The soy sauce has been in my family for generations.” All three can be purchased at the restaurant, as well as at the Fulshear farmers market. When the time comes for Yong to retire, she hopes to shift her focus toward the sauces and get them distributed to local grocery stores and Buc-ee’s locations.

Yong is the first to admit that her success is largely due to the overwhelming support of both her husband Dean and the Fulshear community. “My husband is the most wonderful man, not once has he missed a call to my restaurant at closing time just to check in.” Together 35 years, Yong mentions that he has been her biggest fan from the very beginning. Every evening she returns home with a hot meal just for him. Yong’s Asian Fusion and Sushi is a restaurant that prides itself on serving the freshest ingredients with homemade sauces. The menu truly has something for everybody. “Thank you to everyone in the community for your unconditional support. I feel really blessed.” Yong is happy to share her talents and passion with the city and even happier to call Fulshear home. d Special thank you goes out to Mr. George Lane for giving me the opportunity to express my vision!

29615 FM 1093 #9, Fulshear, TX 77441 • (281) 346-8196 • www.yongsasianfusion.com Open 7 Days a Week • 12:00pm - 10:00pm Yong’s delivers to Fulshear, Cross Creek Ranch and surrounding areas!




FULSH EAR IS MY FAVORITE SUBJECT

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FULSHEAR is My Favorite Subject

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WRITTEN BY DANIEL McJUNKIN

t the Fulshear “State of the City” Address, 2014, Cheryl Stalinsky was presented with Fulshear’s “Impact Award” by Mayor Tommy Kuykendall. She received this award as acknowledgement for her work, in the Mayor’s words, as “Someone who has had a tremendous effect on the City of Fulshear”, and “For going above and beyond for branding and marketing a positive image for the City of Fulshear.”

good marketing began with good branding, she took every opportunity to tell the world the good news that Fulshear was family-friendly and ready to do business.

Building the Brand of Fulshear

One of the first things that Cheryl did was host public events that would showcase both the upscale vision and easy country charm of Fulshear. She presented Fulshear as a traditional hometown community while encouraging the highest of business development standards. When it came to development ideas, her goal was to encourage the kind of sustainable economic growth that would attract the best residential developers and business to the growing community. Cheryl decided that she needed to bring people to Fulshear’s unique downtown. She was able to accomplish this through savvy, determination and grit. Working with local volunteers and businesses, she planned “Fulshear Friday Nights”. This would be a monthly series of evening events, intended to support Fulshear’s young downtown businesses.

While recognition is certainly the welcome fruit that follows achievement, the path to success is where character is revealed. How Cheryl earned her award is an interesting tale.

Starting From Scratch

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When Cheryl Stalinsky accepted the job of Economic Development Director in 2007, planning for Fulshear’s economic growth was a relatively new concept for the small but growing city of just over 900. While Fulshear certainly had an involved and active Mayor and City Council, the city had until that time been more focused on the immediate pressures of preparing for the growth that was just beginning to emerge. For her part, after she came on board, the world of Economic Development in Fulshear became Cheryl’s to conquer, though it would be no small task. Just deciding what to do first was an accomplishment. With many opportunities and few restrictions, Cheryl dug right into the job that would consume her every waking hour and even define her legacy as a public servant. As Fulshear’s newly-appointed “Chief Cheerleader”, Cheryl’s job became one of promotion and presentation. She lost no time pursuing her new career. Knowing that

It did not take long for Economic Development to begin focusing on larger public events. Soon, with the planning and logistic support of many local volunteers, Fulshear began hosting an annual Christmas Tree Lighting, initially followed a week later by a Parade of Lights. March would bring a fun and mildly-irreverent St. Patrick’s Day event. Independence Day would become the largest celebration in Fulshear‘s agenda. It would be the one to ultimately put Fulshear’s event schedule on the map.

Understanding the Market

Cheryl found herself working closely with newly-elected Mayor Tommy Kuykendall and City Administrator C. J. Snipes to monitor, research, and analyze the changing demographics of the area. Working with professional demographers to prepare presentations, she helped to produce documentation and other materials that showcased Fulshear’s unique blend of population, businesses, land positions, development opportunities, and future city plans. This was all done in order to attract desirable types of development and businesses that would support and benefit the city.

The Fulshear Area’s Own Chamber of Commerce

During her tenure as Fulshear’s Economic Development Director, Cheryl was determined that Fulshear needed to be represented by a Chamber of Commerce. After initially


Cheryl Stalinsky FULSHEAR’S OWN “CHIEF CHEERLEADER”

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Photo by Nancy Jones Photography


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organizing with a regional chamber of commerce, Cheryl was ultimately able to achieve her goal for Fulshear to have its own chamber representation. In 2013, with Cheryl’s direction and encouragement, a handful of Fulshear area business owners began to organize their own Chamber of Commerce. The Fulshear Area Chamber of Commerce was chartered to represent the greater Fulshear Area and include Weston Lakes and Simonton. In less than 18 months, the newly-minted chamber had grown to over 247 members. Once the Chamber came online, Cheryl’s attention shifted a bit. This was because the Chamber took on the responsibility of hosting the events that Cheryl worked so hard to establish. By working with the Chamber of Commerce, the city now gets much more “bang for the buck” than ever before.

Recognizing Opportunities

There are many variable aspects that impact a city’s growth – many of which a city has no specific authority to control. By working with the many individuals and groups that sought her out, Cheryl’s job has been to recognize the opportunities while representing the best interests of the City and citizens of Fulshear. By working with Mayor Kuykendall, City Administrator, C. J. Snipes and Fulshear’s two economic development boards, Cheryl has worked to encourage, anticipate, and to some degree control the right kind of sustainable development and growth – the kind that Cheryl has worked to foster on the city’s behalf.

long-term visionary approach complement

A city must have a to economic development if its growth is to be sustainable. This approach should the culture, lifestyle, and heritage of those that live within the community. Cheryl has, by all indications, done her part to set Fulshear in the right economic development direction. This will certainly be her legacy in Fulshear.

The Interview

I had the opportunity to ask Cheryl some specific questions about her job as Economic Development Director. Here is what she said.

What year did you begin working for the city as Economic Development Director? CHERYL: “I started working on “Contract” in 2006 and went full time in 2007.”

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How do you see your role of Economic Development? CHERYL: “Given my political background, I see everything as a candidate. I saw Fulshear as a candidate for growth and a candidate for people who want to make this place their home and a candidate to bring in the right kinds of businesses to sustain our growth.” What was the focus of the City Planning and Zoning Commission as compared to Economic Development? CHERYL: “Their main goal was to have development standards that would bring the right kind of development to Fulshear architecturally – the type that would last the test of time. While the planning commission was there to protect the city, my job has been to promote it.” Why did Fulshear need Economic Development? CHERYL: “At the time, I am not sure that anyone knew they needed it. My job just evolved into that. It began with the

events that I planned. As the developments grew, and as I had events and receptions, the people that came in drew retail and they needed someone to talk with. I happened to be the one that had the connections with the retailers that wanted to come into town and I developed the relationship with them.” What was in the works when you came to work for the city of Fulshear? CHERYL: “The first thing that was going on and was in the works when I came on board was “Town Center”, Doug Konopka’s development downtown.” Before you came in, was the city doing anything to actively promote the city? CHERYL: “No, not that I am aware of. There were only three employees at City Hall.” The city of Fulshear has two economic development corporations. Are you involved in both of them? CHERYL: “Yes. They fund part of my department. I report to each of them. I am not a board member.” Why did you want to host events in Fulshear? CHERYL: “I think that people long for a family friendly community. The reason that I started the events was that when I was 13, we moved to the small town of Marlin, Texas.


What jobs do you do as Economic Development Director? CHERYL: “I meet with potential businesses, recruit businesses, and attend conferences. I present power point presentations to realtors, title companies, banks, businesses and developers that want to come into town. I show them our presentation and give a copy of it. It is on our web site, as well. It tells them the demographics and everything about the development in the community that they would want to know. I sit on several boards as well. The main ones are Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council and the Fort Bend Historical commission where I serve as Commissioner. I am an advisor to the Chamber and serve as a liaison to the city. I am a member of several other boards, as well.” When you started, what were your priorities for Economic Development? CHERYL: “To promote the city and make sure they had the most positive reputation and presentation that it could have and to present Fulshear in a good light so that everyone would want to be here.” How have your proprieties changed? CHERYL: “We have shifted from the rooftop development to looking at more sustaining businesses, retail and light industrial to sustain Fulshear.” What is the next step for Economic Development in Fulshear? CHERYL: “We have shifted focus to the newly annexed property, over 1000 acres, at I-10 and Woods Road between Woods Road and Igloo Road to bring in light industry. It surrounds ‘Rooms to Go’. We feel that developing that property on I-10 will sustain Fulshear economically. Small stores are great, but we need things that are going to sustain after the development of the rooftops has ceased.”

maintain our charm and not look like every other suburb around Houston.”

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How much control does city government have on which businesses locate here? CHERYL: “That is the difficult part. We are a property rights state. Other than ordinances we have for controlling the hours that alcohol is sold, sexually oriented businesses, or gambling, if a developer or anyone buys a piece of property and they develop within our ordinances and our architectural controls, they can pretty much develop the type of business they choose.”

“I hope that when I leave, people can say I left Fulshear better than when I found it.”

How has your involvement changed Fulshear? CHERYL: “When I started we had three businesses and we were known as the storage building capital of Fort Bend County. Now we are known as Fort Bend County’s premier address. I think we have come a long way and done it the right way. The Mayor and our City administrator have supported my efforts and been there every step of the way. I could not have done it without them.” What about recent economic activity in Fulshear? CHERYL: “Our biggest coup is our HEB that we are going to have on 1463 and the fact that right now we have 390,000 square feet of retail scheduled for development on FM 1463.” What have been the major milestones in Fulshear’s economic growth? CHERYL: “One of the biggest milestones was our Chamber. I worked long and hard to get that going and was fortunate enough to stumble on Don McCoy who became the Executive Director of the Chamber. Other milestones include the two EDCs, ETJ Expanding, the thousand on the north was a huge coup that we never expected.

What is it like working with government leaders? CHERYL: “We are fortunate to have a wonderful relationship with our state Representative and our state Senator, - CHERYL STALINSKYas well as our Congressman and Senator. They have all helped a great deal. The fact that I have a political background has helped us stay in Do you consider yourself to be Fulshear’s touch legislatively. I have been able to “Chief Cheerleader”? contact them during this session and write letters to them CHERYL: “I do. They call me ‘the face of Fulshear’ and about things that we are concerned about and that has ‘Ms. Fulshear’. I have been embarrassed by that, but then been helpful.” I thought, ‘You know, I am really proud of what I have accomplished and what Fulshear has turned into – what a What has been your greatest success? lovely community with excited and engaged people who CHERYL: “Aside from all of the retail development and love where they live.’” beautiful housing developments I would say the Fulshear Area Chamber of Commerce.” What would you consider the right kind of growth to be for Fulshear? What do you think your legacy will be? CHERYL: “We always use the word “guided growth”. I would CHERYL: “I hope that when I leave, people can say I left prefer to stay away from having a myriad of strip centers. I Fulshear better than when I found it.” d would like to see lots of mom and pop stores come in along with some of the larger businesses as well. I hope we can

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They had parades and everyone in town got to participate. The kids would get so excited and I thought that is the kind of thing that I want for my grandchildren. That is the reason we started the events, so that our children and grandchildren had a place to come together and enjoy their home town




PUT-TER TH ERE, PAR TNER!

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PUT-TER THERE, PARTNER! WRITTEN BY CJ McDANIEL

MANAGING PARTNER, CRENSHAW GOLF

Of all the tools in the golfer’s sack none is as personal to him as his faithful trusty putter.

GOLFER BOBBY JONES

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Photo: “Classic Instruction” American Golfer, 1998

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obby Jones, when he won the Grand Slam (the British Open and Amateur and the US Open and Amateur) in the same year, did it with the help of a special friend he called Calamity Jane, a hickory shafted stick with three narrow bands of whipping at the base. Those little wisps of thread might have made all the difference to Bobby Jones, but subsequently did little for anyone else when the design for Calamity Jane was mass produced. Calamity Jane is probably the best known of all putters used by great golfers. And as much as Bobby Jones loved it…and as well as it worked for him, it was rusty and sort of beat up, and no doubt had several owners before it ever got to him he once said. Charles Price, one of golf’s most revered writers once said, “It is the worst putter I have ever held in my hands. If a pro left it in a barrel of clubs in his shop at a dollar apiece, nobody would buy it.” Bobby Jones using it was akin to Vladimir Horowitz performing on a dusty, out-of-tune piano in an Elks Club basement.


“IF YOU CAN FIND THE PERFECT CLUB, YOU CAN MAKE THE PERFECT SHOT.” ARNOLD PALMER

Some golfers are known to buy a new putter every month and with it continue to knock the ball harmlessly by the hole, usually never even scaring the cup. American golfers purchase putters like jelly beans. According to DataTech, sales of putters in 2012 was $152,000,000. No, I did not add too many zeros, I meant million! Thinking about this in terms of cash…I was told that 10,000 one hundred dollars bills can fit into a briefcase and weigh about 20 pounds. Let’s see, that would be 152 briefcases; not even Southwest Airlines will let me on with that many bags for free. The average price of a putter in 2014 was $145. I have a friend who bought 13 used putters last year.

So, here we are in the age of social media, high technology, exotic metals, new kind of polymers and every shape you might imagine on a putter. There have been so many designs over the years that the ruling bodies of golf, the United States Golf Association and the Royal and Ancient Golf Society have established guidelines for putter design. I definitely won’t bore you with the details, but there is an entire section in the Rules of Golf dealing with all the elements of the putter.

BOBBY LOCKE

So what about Ben Crenshaw, the best putter in the modern era. He has putted with the same putter for a career. He started using “Little Ben” when he was 15 years old and won 21 times with it on the PGA Tour including the 1984 Masters. That’s a pretty special relationship with such an inanimate object. Over that time it has been stolen, lost and even kicked a few times. But, has always found its way back to Gentle Ben. The model is actually a Wilson 8802. Charlie Crenshaw, Ben’s dad said of the original 8802, “It was just a putter in Harvey Penick’s shop. Ben felt it and waggled it around for a while. ‘Dad, I’d like to have it,’ he said, so I bought it for him. That club’s been the best provider in the family.” The putter cost Crenshaw’s dad $20.

And me? Well, I started playing with a used set that came with a putter that had a brass head that looked kinda like a putter head. The shaft was some kind of fiberglass or resin, but definitely not hickory or metal. It had a leather grip that had to be 35 years old and had one wrap of dirty white medical tape around the top. And you know what….I putted great with that putter. I used it the entire time I was learning the game (which at 70, I am still doing). But along the way, I ended up with one of those famous old 8802s like Little Ben…and I used it from 1970 until 2005 when I finally decided that maybe this technology stuff would help me make more putts. Guess what? The only thing that will help me make more putts is to make the hole bigger. Lee Trevino told me once, “listen, partner, it’s not the arrow, it’s the archer.”

Solheim’s Anser putter - a revision of the original PING - was used by Julius Boros to win the Phoenix Open in 1967, and sparked a

Photo: bencrenshaw.com

I know exactly what he meant. Equipment has helped many of us, but the talent is the key. But, that is not what makes golf so great. Having played the game since I was 21 and having had the fortune of being involved in many different facets of golf, I can say without any hesitation that it truly is the game of a lifetime, whether you are a good putter or not and whether you have an old rusty putter or a bright new Scotty Cameron. What other sport can you play well into your 80’s with people BEN CRENSHAW your own age or even younger and Technology in putter design never entered the picture until an have pure enjoyment of the game in common. There is just unknown named Karsten Solheim came along in the 1960s. He something about the fresh air and the smell of fresh cut grass was an engineer at General Electric and somewhat a golf nut. that makes a golf course special. His engineering background and his passion for golf combined in his Phoenix garage where he began working on his putting I was told that the easiest shot in golf is the fourth putt…the game not by practicing his stroke, but by creating a new good news is I don’t ever remember that happening….maybe putter. Though he made several playable prototypes, only one it did and for my own good, I blocked it out. But, I do know made it out of his garage in the end: the original PING putter, that our goal in our company is to help people to enjoy the so named by his wife because of the sound the putter made game more. Ben Hogan told me once, “As you walk down the when it struck a golf ball. He received a patent on the original fairway of life, you must smell the roses, for you only get to play PING way back in 1959. one round.” And remember, “Golf is a game invented by the same people who think music comes out of bagpipes.” d

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The infamous Bobby Locke is regarded as maybe the best putter of all time. At age nine, he was given a putter by an old professional, T. D. Lighthouse. It was a hickory-shafted steel blade putter that he used until 1960 (32 years) and he finally replaced it with an identical club.

trend that’s continued to this day: heel-toe weighting in putters (and perimeter weighting in all other clubs). Solheim’s PING putters spread the weight towards the heel and toe to minimize distance loss on off-center hits, effectively enlarging the sweet spot. Almost every putter today uses heel-toe weighting.

Photo: Art.com

I’m told that of the more than 12,000 clubs in Arnold Palmer’s collection, more than 2,500 of them are putters. Arnold once said in an interview, “if you can find the perfect club, you can make the perfect shot.” When asked if he had found the perfect putter, his response was a quick “not yet!” And, Mr. Palmer is now 85 years old.

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A PLACE TO CALL H OME

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A Place to Call

HOME WRITTEN BY JACLYN RITTER

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he place we choose to call home is so much more than the house itself. The trees, parks, nature and neighbors contribute to the feeling and sense of “home.” Our home is an extension of ourselves. Weston Lakes is that place for a lot of families. Nestled along the Brazos River, this picturesque community combines top notch amenities like golf and fitness, with the relaxed feel of country living. Weston Lakes is certainly not your typical suburban community, it is oneof-a-kind!

time, Mary Rose Zdunkewicz, a resident since 1985, has served as the city’s mayor. “It has been an honor and privilege to serve the citizens of Weston Lakes since our incorporation,” says Mayor Zdunkewicz. “Having lived in the community for over 29 years I have seen all of the growth that has taken place, and I am pleased to be part of a community that is not like any other in the area. I have watched with pride knowing we have not lost our identity.” Since 2008 the city has never instituted any taxes on its residents.

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Change and Growth Originally developed in 1984, Weston Lakes was referred to as the “River Oaks” of West Houston. Due to limited road access at the time, Weston Lakes was widely considered a retirement community for some time. Many would buy lots with the intent of building their “dream home” in the future. With the development of the Westpark Tollway in 2005, suddenly Weston Lakes was accessible to other areas of West Houston. Builders flocked to the community faster than ever before. In fact, home construction increased from roughly 5-8 homes per year, to 50-75 homes per year. Younger families with children now saw this as the prime location to raise their children. The average age of the community went from the mid 60’s to the mid 40’s. Located in the awardwinning Lamar Consolidated ISD, residents are now excited about the new middle school and high school being built within 2 ½ miles from the community.

What Sets Weston Lakes Apart?

In an effort to maintain the lifestyle that Weston Lakes had grown to enjoy, and in order to maintain their ability to self-govern, Weston Lakes’ residents voted in 2008 to incorporate the community into its own city. Since that

One of the primary reasons people seek homes in Weston Lakes is their 24 hour fully staffed guard gate. This offers residents a strong sense of security. Without a lot of through traffic, the community remains quiet and personal.


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Photo by Nancy Jones Photography

says Shannon, “and have decided this is the place for my family to put down roots.” Thanks to Shannon and his dedicated team, Weston Lakes boasts some of the best manicured greens in town. The golf course was designed to be challenging enough that you would want to play every day without fear of getting bored, yet still allows for an enjoyable round no matter your handicap. While memberships are offered to both residents and non-residents, the course is rarely crowded. The course allows its players to enjoy the sport and good company amongst the natural beauty the community has worked so hard to preserve. Weston Lakes Country Club is home to an 18-hole Championship Golf Course designed by PGA Tour Champion Hale Irwin. Shannon Donaway, the Golf Course Superintendent, has worked at many highend clubs around Texas and Arizona and is very well respected. “I work and also live in the neighborhood,”

The country club also offers a ballroom and wine room for private events, such as weddings, parties and fundraisers. Waterside Grill, the community’s very own restaurant, serves up some of the best food in town. Other club amenities include a brand new fitness center, two swimming pools and tennis courts.

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The average lot size in Weston Lakes is between 1/3 and ½ acre. This is substantially larger than the typical subdivision lot. While some lots are as large as 2.5 acres, the community also offers smaller patio lots for those who do not want the extra upkeep. Only in Weston Lakes can you find golf course lots, wooded lots, park-like lots, and waterfront lots all in one community! The beauty the large pecan and oak trees provide is irreplaceable. The residents in homes along the Brazos River, Pecan Lake and Oxbow Lake are able to enjoy fishing and watching all the other wildlife. Unlike the man-made lakes created by many developers, Weston Lakes has been laid out to enhance these natural waterways.


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“Like many communities, Weston Lakes has activities year round for kids, the junior golf program, swim team and tennis, but what really makes Weston Lakes stand out is the multitude of adult activities,” explains Weston Lakes resident Kay Surface, who along with her husband Mike also owns and operates the Weston Lakes Country Club. With the Garden Club, Car Club, multiple bridge clubs, Weston Lakes Women’s Association, Men’s Golf Association, Ladies’ Golf Association and Senior Men’s Golf Association, just to name a few, there is something for everyone. It is because of these clubs, as well as events held by the country club, that Weston Lakes has the small town charm. Resident Dusty Martin comments, “It is the people who live here that make it so great, we love our neighbors and the friendliness of everyone we meet.”

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People love the community so much that many have multiple generations living within the neighborhood. “My parents moved into Weston Lakes when it first opened. When I married, my wife and I bought a home here because we wanted to raise our kids in the safety of this peaceful, guard gated community with the amenities of a vacation resort,” says Ron Frank, a 30-year resident. “My in-laws came to visit and fell in love with the 100 year old pecan trees and large lots and moved in also. We now have the whole clan here!”

Continual Growth Over the past few years, lots that once were in great abundance in Weston Lakes, have become extremely scarce. In response to the diminishing availability of lots, country club owner and developer Mike Surface purchased 90 acres of ranch land along Bowser Road, adjacent to the Riverwood Forest section of the neighborhood. This new section, Reserve at Weston Lakes, will include over 170 lots and home construction is already underway. All lots are being sold directly to 9 approved builders, most of whom currently live and build in Weston Lakes. In the near future there are also plans to add a 5-acre Brazos River park that will include walking trails and picnic facilities for the entire neighborhood to enjoy. Jason Hall, Weston Lakes Project Manager, commented, “We are very excited to offer these new sections of Weston Lakes. It’s obvious the ‘Weston Lakes lifestyle’ is very much in demand because we had over 25 homebuilding companies interested in buying lots. There’s something special about our community, and once people come see it for themselves they understand.” Weston Lakes is not your typical cookie cutter suburban community. Every home is different and unique to that particular family. Because of the variety of large trees, water views and golf course views, every lot is different than the lot next to it. Weston Lakes Membership Director, Jennifer Miles, shares her favorite part of the place she calls home, “As my husband and I sit on our patio watching our two boys and the neighborhood kids swim, we realize we have the best of country living, complete with wildlife and fishing, yet we are in a gated community with the benefits of being so close to our many friends.” There is no doubt that those who live in the community are proud to call it home. d


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FM 1093 Westh



Fort Bend Ranchers’ Ball saddle up for the

October 24, 2015 • 6-11 PM • SAFARI TEXAS RANCH • 11627 FM 1464, RICHMOND, TX 77407

You’ll make a difference When great people come together for a worthy cause they can make a difference in many lives. That’s why Fort Bend County Commissioner Andy Meyers is hosting the Inaugural Fort Bend Ranchers’ Ball which will benefit Fort Bend Charities, Inc. a 501 (c) (3) charitable organization. Through your committed financial support of this great event, you’ll enable us to continue providing funding for some of Fort Bend County’s most impactful groups, each of which have a direct benefit and payback within our area.

Which groups? Lone Star Veterans Association

Helping in the transition from military life

Katy Christian Ministries

Serving needy families in the Katy area

Simonton Christian Academy

Offering excellent education to area youth

Fort Bend County Fair Association & Katy FFA Providing educational scholarships

And Others

Special Guests Honorary Chairman Comptroller Glenn Hegar State Representatives Rick Miller, Ron Reynolds & Phil Stephenson; Fort Bend County Judge Bob Hebert; Fort Bend County Commissioners Richard Morrison, Grady Prestage & James Patterson

Save the date The Fort Bend Ranchers’ Ball is scheduled for October 24th, 2015 at Safari Texas Ranch. It will be your best opportunity to show your commitment to Fort Bend County and the families that make it great. Whether you can buy one seat, a whole table, or perhaps become a sponsor, we need your support. Your caring tax-deductible contribution will absolutely make the difference for families in Fort Bend County.

HOST COMMITTE CHAIRS: CJ & Dr. Gary Aber, Fort Bend County Precinct 3 Commissioner Andy Meyers, Robert & Synda Frost • Photo: Nancy Jones Photography

Don’t wait - Reserve your sponsorship today Become a corporate or individual sponsor of the Inaugural Fort Bend Ranchers’ Ball today. We ask that you dig deep as you consider how you may help our Fort Bend families in need. Your sponsorship is the only way we’ll have the resources to answer these needs, many in time for Christmas.

Want to learn more?

For information about this great charitable organization, visit

fortbendcharitiesinc.org or call 281-391-3366


N

ELL BEDNARZ, a highly accomplished local artist, is inspired by nature, cultural heritage and Holy Scripture. Her work can be found in private collections in the US, Mexico, Venezuela, Australia, New Zealand, the Middle East and Europe.

AR T INSPIRED BY SCRIPTURE

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Raised on a cattle and cotton farm near Lubbock, Texas, Nell Bednarz studied wildlife and photography while earning a degree in agronomy from Texas Tech University. For several years she worked as a conservationist. Nell took after her father, a cotton farmer, in his love for nature. However, Nell’s mother, an artist and writer, enhanced that love by introducing a way to capture those awe inspiring moments. Having grown up in a house filled with art, she learned to appreciate it at an early age. School was difficult for Nell. Suffering from dyslexia left her with a lot of anxiety about whether she would be able to succeed in anything. While she wanted to excel in her art class, she struggled going beyond stick figures. It was her seventh grade art teacher who took the time to show her how to see as an artist sees. Nell learned that art is all about decision making, and with the help of her teacher, by the end of the school year she was able to make these decisions confidently. “It was then that things began to make sense for the first time,” says Nell.

ART

INSPIRED BY

SCRIPTURE F ULSHEA R MA G A ZIN E

WRITTEN BY JACLYN RITTER PHOTORAPHY BY NANCY JONES PHOTOGRAPHY

Nell currently enjoys exploring several art mediums: drawing, painting, photography, assemblage sculpture and fine art jewelry. Each of these forms allows her to express her devotion to God.

“I feel like I am God’s tool. God shows me things about his purpose for each of us, as well as the beauty He has always intended for our lives,” Nell expresses. Her photography is vivid and stores memories. Her paintings are vibrant and real. Her jewelry is stylized and simple. To keep herself organized, she writes down all of her experiences and ideas, along with sketches, in a journal. “If I didn’t keep notes like this, most of my designs would not take form.” Another thing that keeps her organized is her house, which is a piece of art all in itself! Not only does she have her own studio, but the house was built in a way that would showcase her art. Specific walls have extra interior blocking to make hanging different sizes and styles of art a breeze, while also having the appropriate lighting to illuminate her masterpieces. Her home is a gallery that showcases her best and most meaningful work. Nell Bednarz was selected to be featured in the International Contemporary Masters, Vol.8, by World Wide Art Books. Two of her pieces from this publication will be exhibited at the Southern Nevada Museum of Fine Arts in Las Vegas this year. In September, Nell will be the featured artist for the Bastrop Fine Art Gallery. While Nell has accomplished this and much more over her career, she still makes time to serve on the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo School Art Committee where she works as an art judge. And even closer to home, some of Nell’s smaller works can be seen at the Red Potato Market in Simonton. Inspiration for her art comes from everything around her, even the little things that seem insignificant. “You can feel the ephemeral nature of things. Life is so short and so sweet that you really have to drink it in.” Nell attributes the scripture Philippians 4 verses 8 and 9 as a saving grace at numerous points in her life. It remains a constant reminder to focus on the good in life, the miracles and wonders God has created, not the bad. Through her art, Nell Bednarz is able to capture the beauty that surrounds us, while acknowledging that often times beauty and danger live side by side. d

To learn more about Nell Bednarz and see more examples of her art, visit her website at nellbednarz.com


“Song of Life: Brazos Bend Natives” BY NELL BEDNARZ

Featuring the American Alligator and the American Lotus, both found at Brazos Bend State Park. Danger and Beauty live side by side in nature.

WW W.FU LSHEA R. CO M

51


AW E S O M E

AWESOME ALLIGATORS

52

ALLIGATORS WRITTEN BY JOE DOGGETT

ALLIGATORS SHARE ONE THING IN COMMON WITH LARGE FISH & ALL SNAKES

THE MORE THE STORY IS TOLD,

F ULSHEA R MA G A ZIN E

THE BIGGER THEY GET

Like many outdoor enthusiasts in southeast Texas, I have seen hundreds of rough-scaled, snaggle-toothed, bulbous-nosed alligators, mostly along weed-choked shorelines of sloughs and ponds and in brackish canals. Most of these ‘gators were between four and eight feet. In North America, the thin-nosed tropical crocodiles are native only to extreme south Florida. Unlike alligators, these rare saurians can thrive in straight saltwater. Despite campfire and clubhouse embellishments, American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) taping over Photo: ©iStock.com/Strannik_fox

an honest 10 feet are not common sightings. Big Boys topping 12 are downright rare. At least, this has been my observation and I believe the overall population numbers would back me up. Keep in mind that an alligator twice the height of a full-grown man might be 40 or 50 years old. The odds of such a borderline dinosaur surviving in proximity to the ever-expanding crush of civilization are slim. But the occasional mondo-giant ‘gator does exist. And these are the ones that continue to inspire lore and legend. And fact. Although the facts sometimes get a bit muddled. Several years ago, Justin Wells and several friends caught and killed a 14-foot, 8-inch, 880-pound brute from Chalk Creek in East Texas. The massive alligator reportedly was documented by officials from Safari Club International. And, in 2013, while taking part in a public alligator hunt on the Daughtrey Wildlife Management Area (near Choke Canyon Reservoir), Braxton Bielski caught an alligator measured at 14-3. The beast apparently weighed 800 pounds. It is credited by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department as the official state record.


Take your pick, but 14-foot-class ‘gators do survive in Texas. And they are trumped by the benchmarks in several southern states. Alabama reportedly documented a 15-9 that scaled 1,011 pounds. Florida has sketchy reports of a long-ago 17-5 from the Everglades, but the official record for the Sunshine State stands at 14-feet, 5/8-inch. Still, Florida being Florida, you have to believe that some awesome alligators have reached full maturity in the low-country latticework of swamps and rivers.

SOUTHERN LOUISIANA IS THE MOTHER LODE FOR

ALLIGATORS

Based on a recent survey, the Pelican State boasts more than one million alligators. But Texas can’t be far behind, with an on-going growth of alligator numbers since the reptiles were placed on the state’s protected game species list in 1985 (prior to that, they were off-limits under the 1973 Texas Endangered Species Act). But, back to Louisiana. Rumors persist of a titanic 19-2 scaling approximately one ton that was taken near Vermillion Bay; however, the story of the mega-gator originated in 1890. For all I know, it was hashed up by several Cajuns sitting around a jug of ‘shine. I’d be more inclined to accept such a report if it had been documented by, say, Raymond Ditmars, the famed turnof-the-century herpetologist at the New York Zoological Park. On the subject of Ditmars, his classic book, Reptiles of the World (1910), substantiates several species of the crocodile family in the 20-foot-plus club. They include the Indian gavial, the saltwater crocodile, and the black caiman. Keep in mind that such huge reptiles surely were more common 100 years ago. Ditmars credits the American alligator at 16 feet, with no mention of the alleged Louisiana monster; however, another well-respected book published half a century later, A Field Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians (Roger Conant, 1958), pegs the maximum length at 19 feet, 2 inches, an obvious nod to Vermillion Bay. Well, maybe. That’s awfully big - like a 9-foot man.

The female alligator deposits 30 or 40 three-inch eggs in soft shoreline loam or sand and builds a large mound to protect them. The babies hatch in about two months. During the incubation period, the scaly, swarthy, snaggly mamma is apt to hover near, guarding the clutch, which is not exactly what the nearest berry picker or bird watcher or perch jerker needs to hear.

53

Alligators are normally not as aggressive as most species of crocodiles, and unprovoked attacks on humans are rare - but they have occurred. And, frankly, they may increase as wild alligators living in or near expanding urban areas increasingly lose fear and caution. For example, regularly feeding a big alligator in a neighborhood lake is not a good idea. “Old Fred” the resident ‘gator starts associating people with food. He eases up looking for another handout and maybe gets the wrong idea if a foot is dangling off the dock. Allowing a dog to run free along a marshy or brushy bank known to harbor alligators can be a heartbreaking mistake. This especially is true early and late in the day, and during the warm-weather months when coldblooded reptiles are most active. Even during winter, a mild trend can re-juice a sluggish ‘gator. And you really cannot blame the alligator if you allow a pet to roam within its kill zone. The dumb brute is acting from natural impulse to grab a meal - same thing with a nutria or a turtle or a garfish. Experts maintain that the larger alligators tend to become loners, more territorial, while the smaller one often congregate more-or-less according to size. In other words, if you see a ‘gator of double-digit length, the odds are good that smaller ones are not in the area. The Big Boy either routs them or eats them. Of course, a sustained flood can reshuffle alligator populations. The aquatic reptiles either wander, seeking new habitat, or they get washed downstream along with trailers, SUV’s and other flotsam. The record-breaking rains of May scattered alligators all over southeast Texas, causing them to show in the most unlikely places. For example, during early June Doug Pike and I were wading waist-deep in the Quintana Beach surf for speckled trout. The tide was green and the mullet were popping and the gulls were wheeling. Everything was looking great. Well, until a displaced six-foot alligator popped up about 10 yards in front of us. d

WW W.FU LSHEA R. CO M

Regardless of top-end potential, all alligators start as runts, little more than chubby lizards (in fact, the name evolved from the Spanish, lagarto, for “lizard”). They hatch during late spring and average 9 or 10 inches in length.

Photo by Katie Mecham




MAKING

MAKING FITNESS PERSONAL

56

P

E

R

S

O

N

A

L

WRITTEN BY JACLYN RITTER

Krishtian Buescher, owner of Buescher Personal Fitness in Fulshear, is proud to share her story of recovery with her clients. This wife, and mom of two, is dedicated to helping her clients change the way they see themselves.

G

rowing up, Krishtian struggled with her weight. That insecurity seeped in to all aspects of her life. What made those insecurities even harder was the fact that as her longtime boyfriend, James Buescher, began to emerge as a successful racecar driver, she too was stepping out in the public eye. She felt the overwhelming pressure to look and act a certain way. At the age of 18, Krishtian began working out, only she took it too far. It turned into more than just a desire to be fit and healthy, it quickly became a need for unattainable perfection. For two years Krishtian struggled with anorexia. With the help of a nutritionist and personal trainer she was able to change her mindset and focus on the importance of balance. It ultimately came down to her becoming her own greatest motivator and supporter. She chose to hold herself accountable for her own wellbeing.

It is when we are content and accepting of ourselves that we find life’s greatest joys.

F ULSHEA R MA G A ZIN E

2012 will forever stand out to Krishtian as a special year. It was the year she and James married, the year she watched him win his first NASCAR championship, and the year she earned her personal trainer license.

“If you work doing what you love, you never work a day in your life.”

This is a quote that resonates with Krishtian. While she had enjoyed traveling the NASCAR circuit with her husband, it was time for her to make a name for herself. She found a way of turning her passion into a career. In January of 2013 Buescher Personal Fitness was born. Krishtian and her team of trainers offer small group classes, buddy training and one on one training. They also offer at-home workout plans emailed to you


What Krishtian loves most about her job is “watching someone transform their body and their mind.” The change is often gradual, and it should be in order for it to truly be a lifestyle change. The transformation goes beyond the physical, it is the mind, our inner thoughts, the way we see ourselves, that has to change. Krishtian often sees new moms tackling the pressure of losing the dreaded baby weight. Having been there herself, she reminds moms that “our children, even very young, pick up on what we are doing. It is important to demonstrate, through everyday example, making healthy choices

and establishing smart habits.” With our busy schedules it is easy to skip out on exercise, or grab the quick and often unhealthy snack, but Krishtian reminds us that “it is ok to put yourself first once and awhile.” She continues by adding that “if you are not feeling good about yourself, you are not able to be your best you for your loved ones.”

57

Krishtian Buescher has created her business, Buescher Personal Fitness, as a way to share her story and her life lessons with others, in hopes that they too can discover their best and happiest self though exercise and good nutrition. Both of these things have a lasting effect on how we feel about ourselves and life in general. “Getting started is a decision you ultimately have to make on your own,” says Krishtian. She made that decision and has never looked back! d

281.346.8006

WWW.BUESCHERFITNESS.COM

29810 FM 1093 SUITE C • FULSHEAR, TX 77441

WW W.FU LSHEA R. CO M

directly – an option that is popular among new moms who find it hard to get to the gym. On the company’s website you can browse a variety of healthy recipes that are sure to get your mouth watering. The team also shares nutrition information, from developing food plans to healthy food swaps. What sets them apart from the rest? “We are there for you more than just the hour you are in the gym, we are there for you every single day,” notes Krishtian. “We text, email and call to help keep you on track and hold you accountable.”




MEET PETE OLSON

60

FROM

VETERAN

NAVY P I L O T

WRITTEN BY DANIEL McJUNKIN

TO VETERAN CONGRESSMAN

F ULSHEA R MA G A ZIN E

M E E T

PETE OLSON

P

ETE OLSON is the United States Representative elected to represent the 22nd Congressional District of Texas. In 1985 he

received his BA from Rice University. Three years later, in 1988 he earned his law degree from the University of Texas. Upon completing law school and taking the Texas bar exam, he immediately joined the United States Navy, where he flew the P-3c Orion. Pete went on to work for the Joint Chiefs of Staff and subsequently served as a naval liaison officer to the United States Senate. Following his military career, Pete gained political experience serving as a legislative aide under Texas Senator Phil Graham and as Chief of Staff for Senator John Cornyn. He was then elected to Congress in November of 2008. Pete has actively pursued his commitment to his district. When not in Washington DC, he regularly attends local events, such as Fulshear’s annual Independence Day “Freedom Fest” celebration. Seeking input from local community and business leaders, Pete has given considerable attention to issues facing the three cities of Fulshear, Weston Lakes and Simonton. His attention to our area has yielded increased consideration in our nation’s capital of our area’s unique needs as well as our opportunities.


RECENTLY, I HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO ASK PETE SOME QUESTIONS THAT MIGHT BE OF INTEREST TO OUR READERS. HERE IS WHAT HE SAID. ON ENERGY

ON WORKING WITH LOCAL CITIES

CONGRESSMAN OLSON: “Houston is the energy capital of the world. As Vice Chairman of the Energy and Power Subcommittee, I’m proud to advocate for strong energy policies that strengthen our economy and ensure abundant, reliable, and affordable sources of energy. Texas regulators understand that producing energy and protecting the environment are not mutually exclusive. I’m pushing to make sure federal regulators understand that balance as well by crafting bills that rein in federal regulations that hinder job growth and domestic energy production.”

CONGRESSMAN OLSON: “A strong partnership between my office and cities like Fulshear is critical for our mutual success. I love hearing from y’all and depend on that relationship to cut through federal red tape on your behalf. My staff holds mobile district offices throughout the district to give easier access to folks who need help at the federal level.

Houston is known as the energy capitol of the world. How can Congress promote a healthy energy economy and the jobs that depend on it?

Olson tours Forge USA in Houston 3/31/14

ON TAXES AND GOVERNMENT SPENDING

Where do you stand on the idea of a balanced Federal budget? CONGRESSMAN OLSON: “The federal government must be forced to live within its means like the State of Texas and families across America must do. That’s why I have voted for and cosponsored legislation to support a Balanced Budget Amendment to the US Constitution. We simply cannot trust the President or Congress for that matter, to limit spending. We must take the necessary steps today to protect our children and grandchildren’s future tomorrow.”

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What can you and your staff do to support the goals and needs of local communities, such as Fulshear, Weston Lakes, and Simonton?

A good partnership was our joint effort to address the thousands of undocumented children that crossed into Texas from Central America via Mexico last year. The federal government has failed to secure our borders and we bear the brunt of it. Once the kids were here, the federal government scrambled to locate them. They were placed in towns across America, many in Texas. This has a real impact on our communities through higher healthcare, housing and education costs. Working with the local mayors, I drafted legislation – the Our Communities, Our Choice Act - to give them a voice in determining where unaccompanied children would be located. This bill requires the government to notify and consult with mayors and local elected officials if they intend to open a shelter in their cities on nonfederal property. They must wait at least 90 days before taking action to give mayors time to determine if they can handle this burden. The bill was widely supported by local mayors and I’m proud to work with them to provide common sense, conservative solutions.”

(L-R) Alvin Mayor Paul Horn, Simonton Mayor Daniel McJunkin, Rosenberg Mayor Vincent M. Morales Jr., Meadows Place Mayor Charles Jessup, myself, Missouri City Mayor Allen Own and Fulshear Mayor Tommy Kuykendall at the press conference for Our Communities, Our Choice

CONCLUSION

CONGRESSMAN OLSON: “I’m blessed to represent the greatest folks in the greatest state in the greatest country in the world. It’s an honor to serve you and my door is always open. Fulshear is known as the premier address in Fort Bend County and I thank God every day for the opportunity to serve you!” d TO LEARN MORE ABOUT CONGRESSMAN OLSON, VISIT: Olson view at House Energy and Commerce hearing 6/16/15

olson.house.gov

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What would you like to say to the voters in your district?



C H E E S Y BUTTERNUT

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SQUASH

CAVATAPPI BAKE

s fall approaches and the kids return back to school, our weekly menu naturally shifts toward easy and fulfilling dishes that are kid friendly. Let’s face it, this is a crazy time of the year! We do not have time to slave in the kitchen, a summer salad no longer fills us up, and the kids return home with an enormous appetite. I came across this recipe in a Better Homes and Gardens magazine a few years back. You would think it had been a few decades back given how worn the torn out recipe has gotten. This variation on a classic macaroni and cheese is top notch! The butternut squash adds a noticeable creaminess to the dish that results in a vitamin A enriched dish. The squash also takes the place of some of the cheese, making it so you do not feel guilty reaching for that second helping! While you may want to stick to your comfort zone and substitute the fontina cheese for the familiar cheddar, I urge you to try it at least once. Fontina is a semi-soft cow’s milk cheese that comes from Italy. When baked it takes on an earthy taste that enhances the mushrooms.

And if I have not sold you on this recipe yet, just wait…..my kids absolutely love it! In fact, they ask for it weekly. Even my father in-law, who insists that he does not like squash, had two helpings before I told him what was in it. This recipe is a great variation on a classic comfort food. It is one that both you and the kids can get excited about and feel good about! d

3 cups peeled and cubed butternut squash (save time by buying pre-cut butternut squash)

10 oz. dried cavatappi noodles 1 Tbsp. butter 8 oz. cremini or button mushrooms, sliced 1 sweet onion, chopped 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour 1 cup milk 6 oz. fontina cheese, shredded (do not buy pre-shredded, buy the block and shred it for optimal creaminess)

2 slices reduced-sodium bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional) Green onions (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Lightly coat a 2-quart rectangular baking dish with nonstick cooking spray; set aside. 2. In a medium microwave-safe bowl combine squash and 2 Tbsp. water; cover with vented plastic wrap. Microwave on high for 4 minutes; stir. Microwave covered about 4 minutes more or until squash is tender. Carefully remove plastic wrap and mash the squash; set aside. 3. Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions and drain. In a medium saucepan heat butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and onions. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle flour over mushroom mixture. Cook and stir for 1 minute. Add milk and ¼ tsp. of salt and a ¼ tsp. of pepper. Cook and stir over medium heat until thickened and bubbly. Remove from heat; stir in squash. Add pasta. Gently fold to combine. 4. Transfer half of the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the cheese. Add remaining pasta mixture and cheese. Top with bacon, if desired. Bake, uncovered, 20 to 25 minutes or until heated through and cheese is melted. Top with green onions if desired. Makes 6 servings.

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A

WRITTEN BY JACLYN RITTER


FURNITURE WITH A STORY

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FURNITURE with aStory WRITTEN BY JACLYN RITTER, PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIT JONES

A F ULSHEA R MA G A ZIN E

rt tells a story. Alan Macik’s work is no different. Many may not see a kitchen table and consider it art, but I challenge you to take a look at one of Alan’s creations and not be in awe. He has the talent and creativity needed to turn old structures and fallen trees into a well-crafted masterpiece. These are timeless furnishings that last a lifetime.

“I’ve always done wood working,” says Alan. It started with taking architecture in school. Out of high school Alan took a job with a custom home builder in town. He remembers helping him build the Methodist church in Fulshear. Years later, in 2011, Alan and the builder’s two sons helped remodel the church. “It was kind of neat tearing apart the walls I put up decades earlier and seeing where I had written my name as a teenager,” chuckles Alan. But his heart was with furniture making. For years he made pieces for friends and family. In fact, one time he sold his own dining room table right out from underneath dinner! In late 2008 Alan had an epiphany, “Let’s not buy our lumber, let’s harvest our own lumber.” By the end of the year he had purchased his own sawmill. Alan now does it all, from cutting the trees, sawing, milling and even drying the lumber with a solar kiln he built himself. RUSTIC KUTS FURNITURE opened in downtown Rosenberg in 2009. Between then and now they have been in three different locations within one square block of town, each

location bigger than the last. Up until this last year Alan worked on his own from his garage. Alan recently hired a man by the name of Jamie Nickerson, an artist by trade. “We think a lot alike,” notes Alan. “We are able to bounce ideas off of each other and end up with an even better finished product.” Just some of the things offered at RUSTIC KUTS FURNITURE include dining room tables, coffee tables, sofa tables, end tables, mantles and mirrors. They even sell western art, bedding, hides, accessories for the kitchen and bath, as well as an array of other rustic furniture for further furnishing the home. In addition, Alan crafts beautiful crosses that look great on the wall or simply displayed on a surface. He is proud to mention that the store is comprised of pieces made from local products. Pecan is highly used throughout his work because it is readily available in Ft. Bend County. Alan also likes to use long leaf pine, mesquite and hackberry. While the latter is often considered a poor type of wood, Alan has found select pieces that look amazing when cut and positioned the right way.


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Both Jamie and Alan take pride in the quality of their work. “To me, what we do is not a job, it’s fun,” notes Alan. That love and passion becomes apparent to anyone who enters the store. Alan’s eyes simply light up when he shares the story behind each piece. One customer had an old tree that had been on his family’s property for years and had recently died. “We took that sentimental tree and gave it a new life as a piece of furniture,” says Alan. Everything is screwed and glued – absolutely no nails! They even leave the character of the wood, like knots and divots. Over the years Alan has learned neat tricks that help accentuate the wood’s natural uniqueness. Just one of those tricks is his use of epoxy to create a water like look within a natural crack in the wood. With up to 16 hours of labor dedicated to one table alone, it is of no surprise that each and every piece is of top notch quality. Want something in particular? Alan welcomes you to the store to see his work and brainstorm the open possibilities from there.

THE FURNITURE FOUND AT RUSTIC KUTS FURNITURE IS UNLIKE ANYTHING YOU CAN PURCHASE AT A BIG BOX STORE – IT IS UNIQUE. “You cannot duplicate these,” says Alan’s wife Sandra. “You can make something similar, but it will never be the same.” It is all about the source, the grains, colors and bits of character. Each tree has a different origin with a different story. “If you buy a piece here we can guarantee that no one else is going to have it!” RUSTIC KUTS FURNITURE is Alan’s showroom. “I’m just an old guy who loves what he’s doing.” Alan and Sandra have been known to donate pieces of furniture to local charities and fundraisers that are meaningful to them, namely the leukemia foundation. They give back to the community the same way the city of Rosenberg and surrounding areas have given so much to them over the years. Custom, quality furniture is hard to come by nowadays. If you want that one-of-a-kind piece that stands out, RUSTIC KUTS FURNITURE is the place to go. Alan’s passion for what he does is evident in his work. Art is not reserved only for a stretch of wall, it can fill a room in the form of highly crafted, solid wood furniture. d

828 3RD ST, ROSENBERG, TX • (281) 232-6033 W W W . R U S T I C K U T S . COM

A N A D D E D B O N U S - There is a boutique located within Rustic Kuts Furniture! Make sure you save time to browse the chic western inspired clothing and accessories when you visit.


EXERCISE

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EXPERTS SAY RIGHT EXERCISE CAN BOOST BRAIN & BODY

E

very morning most of us wake up and think about the day’s activities. For many, that includes exercise to keep the body fit. But what about mental fitness?

Just as we build muscle strength to keep our bodies fit, studies show that we need to build cognitive reserve to help our brains ward off memory problems and keep our minds active. Research indicates that mental fitness activities, along with a healthy diet and an exercise regimen that includes a combination of aerobic and strength-training, can help to build new neuro-connections in the brain and improve cell function. It is this cognitive reserve that aging adults can draw on to maintain brain function. “Several years ago we began developing programs that could engage brain and body in ways that are both fun and therapeutic,” said Beverly Sanborn, LCSW, gerontologist for Belmont Village Senior Living. “We continue to evaluate and enhance, and we’ve seen measurable differences for our residents and their quality of life.”

Changes in the brain can start decades before symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease begin to show. Simultaneously engaging mind, memory and body movement on a regular basis could mean delaying the onset of memory loss for people in their 50s and 60s. For people in their 70s and 80s, who may already be experiencing some memory loss, a carefully planned and structured day of activities may slow the progression and help maintain function and quality of life. “A lot goes into a successful program, but most important are to make sure that you’re learning something new and that you’re challenging yourself mentally. Those are the opportunities we create daily for our residents.” said Sanborn.

Belmont Village Senior Living is a leading national provider of assisted living and award-winning memory care. For more information please call 713-781-1505 or visit belmontvillage.com.



F ULSHEA R MA G A ZIN E

MY WAR WITH WATER H YACINTH S

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M Y

W A R

W I T H

Water Hyacinths WRITTEN BY SYNDA FROST, PHOTOGRAPHY BY NANCY JONES PHOTOGRAPHY


I

t all began so innocently back in the spring of 2008. A visiting friend noticed a pretty little flowering plant floating near our dock on Bessie’s Creek near Simonton. Being well versed in plants, she mentioned that I might want to investigate the plant, as it appeared to be a water hyacinth. I didn’t bother. It looked so sweet and harmless.

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After several weeks, I noticed a few more of the little plants and took delight in picking them out of the water by hand. Then there were more... and more...! I soon found myself motoring over in my boat to pick out entire clumps of them, eventually resorting to pulling an additional dinghy behind to totally fill with the plants. I needed a new plan.

HOW DID THEY GET HERE?

Thought to be native to the Amazon River basin of South America, water hyacinths were introduced to the United States in 1884 at the Cotton States Exposition in New Orleans where plants were given to visitors as souvenirs. As I would learn, they are the gift that keeps on giving.

MANY IMPACTS

Mature plants rapidly produce new daughter plants, allowing the entire population to double in as little time as 6-18 days! At this rate, a single water hyacinth can reach as many as 500,000 plants in five months. One flower spike, with up to 15 beautiful lavender flowers, may produce up to 3,000 tiny seeds that can remain viable for 15-20 years. The plants harbor two species of mosquitoes for breeding and cause water loss through evapotranspiration up to 13 times that of open water evaporative loss. Large mats can exacerbate the effects of flooding and cause flood waters to recede slowly. They crowd out boating, swimming and fishing, and will kill entire fish populations when infestations become sufficiently dense.

EDUCATION AND ERADICATION

Our county extension agent pulled together a program to educate residents about the water hyacinth, and the war was on! As mats of hyacinths float to and fro, I realized it would be necessary to cut the lake into segments for spraying, and a number of us purchased and installed commercial aquatic booms. We also found success using a small boat with a trolling motor and a 25-gallon, battery-powered sprayer, adding Turf Marker to dye the areas that had been sprayed. Twinwood, the largest landowner, used helicopter spraying initially

and cleaned up stragglers by boat. Through a huge, concerted effort, we successfully eradicated all of the hyacinths in Bessie’s Creek, at least below 1-10.

THEY’RE BACK

Yes, those are water hyacinths you see floating in Bessie’s Creek now as you cross over the dams on FM 1489. My recent internet research revealed that the seeds enjoy a period of drought for germination (probably another gift from our drought of 2011), growing into plants when moist conditions and warm temperatures return.

THE BATTLE RAGES

In an effort to stem the tide of this pesky plant, I strung up my old boom on the north property line to serve as a sentinel for stragglers that made it over the dam. When they did appear, we made many efforts to spray them from the boat, but recent flooding has since made it impossible to get over or under the boom to reach them, and they are expanding exponentially. Twinwood, a neighboring property owner, has made numerous efforts to tamp down the spread but has yet to get control of them. I have reached out to Texas Parks and Wildlife biologists, who are coming soon to advise us.

SUCCESS WILL BE MEASURED IN YEARS

I hope that there is a successful conclusion to my war with the water hyacinth, because if my old boom fails, the water hyacinths will certainly continue downstream through Fulbrook, Fulshear, and eventually into the Brazos River. At that point they may be almost impossible to control. This will be a long-term battle. Even if it is possible to eradicate all of the plants this time, it will be necessary to monitor Bessie’s Creek for the 15-20 years that the seeds can remain viable. I am glad that my friend alerted me about my first water hyacinth back in 2008, though my war with this beautiful and prolifically invasive plant continues today. I can say that since that time, I’ve learned a lot about responsible plant ownership. My advice to water gardeners? When it comes to water hyacinths and other exotic invasive aquatic plants, just say “no”. d

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IN SECOND PLACE

By this time, the plants had my full attention and other neighbors were concerned about them, too. I decided to do a little research on the pretty little plant and was stunned to learn that it was a water hyacinth. It is the second worst aquatic weed, second only to giant salvinia! It has become such a problem in Texas that it is illegal to intentionally possess or transport them in the state.




RIVER CRUISING

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River Cruising WRITTEN BY TERRI OLIVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE MECHAM

O

F ULSHEA R MA G A ZIN E

ne of the fastest growing segments in the travel industry is river cruising, which is of no surprise to those who have had the pleasure of taking one of these wonderful journeys. As with any kind of travel, many of us hear “buzz” from various and sundry sources including friends, acquaintances, commercials, the internet, etc. When some people hear the word “cruise” they automatically have preconceived notions based on ocean going cruises. The main areas of commonality are that the major means of travel is water conveyance and that the vessel acts as a sort of floating hotel and restaurant. After that, the similarities diverge and that is where we will take the path leading us to the river cruise. The focus will be on European cruising, although river cruise itineraries can be found on almost every continent.

A number of factors come together to attribute to the river cruise’s burgeoning popularity. At the time that Europe was being settled, rivers were the highways of the day. Exploration and settlement made river access a must for many reasons, both economic for trade and needed water for agriculture and survival. Thus, river itineraries follow these ancient paths and lead through the European continent to the very midst of the cities along their banks. Those who have traveled through Europe or elsewhere on land based tours know the meaning of “hit the ground running.” Once you arrive after your flight, there is a fairly strict timetable to adhere to—unpacking, repacking, having your luggage beside your hotel door at 6am and


boarding a coach at 7am to drive to the next town. Self-driving tours can be more leisurely if you are comfortable driving in a foreign country and navigating highways and roads you have not driven before. The river cruise usually begins after a brief transfer to the ship and you unpack once and begin your adventure.

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There are many river cruise companies, and with their growth in popularity, new companies and ship expansion within existing companies is the order of the day. Additionally, there are an exciting array of river itineraries including the European Christmas markets in November and December. There are also holiday river cruises that feature once in a lifetime events such as New Year’s Eve in a Viennese palace. Your travel consultant can help you decide based on your personal tastes and budget. Of those that have taken a river cruise, 85% plan to take another one in the near future. Recently we embarked on a river cruise in Italy, focusing on the region around Venice and the Po River. The ship was our floating hotel. It provided breathtaking views of a moonlit Venice at night and panoramic views of the ancient, colorful architecture during the day. Most river cruises include some type of daily excursion itinerary. A private night time opening of St. Mark’s basilica was part of our trip and was hosted by an art historian. As our small group sat down in the semi-darkness inside, our breath was taken away as the lights slowly came up to reveal the utter magnificence of this most historic church. The size and splendor and the hopes and dreams of the people who created this material edifice to inspire awe and reverence within became a palpable reality to me. I was both amazed and humbled. The food was a culinary experience of the first order being sourced by our chef at local markets. I had never tasted prosciutto, mozzarella, cantaloupe, or many other foods that had so much flavor in and of themselves. Every evening dinner was expressly designed to engage all senses. The ship’s décor also reflected our locale by featuring an exquisite chandelier from the nearby Murano glass factory as well as other touches of beauty and elegance. Finally, we were treated to impeccable service on every level. Our needs and wants were anticipated so that we could focus on savoring every moment on board. However, the atmosphere was anything but stuffy as we met and dined with wonderful fellow passengers that made the trip even more memorable.

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There is most certainly a river cruise that will provide a fabulously memorable travel experience for you. Finding the right fit and planning early are the keys to ensuring success and we all know that anticipation is all part of the excitement and inspiration of travel. d


Fulshear Area

CH AMBER OF COMMERCE

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CHAMBER of Commerce

“Fulshear needs its own Chamber”…

“I think Fulshear is ready for a Chamber of Commerce”… “When is Fulshear going to start a Chamber” … “Let’s start our own Chamber!” These are the words I started hearing over and over in early 2013 from the local business community in Fulshear. Business owners like myself, were starting to see the beginnings of the growth Fulshear is now experiencing and we were ready to take the first steps to ensure that there was going to be an organized and effective advocate for the local business community. At that time a small number of local businesses were becoming active in a Chamber of Commerce outside of Fulshear. We quickly saw how an organized advocate for the business community could be a great asset. But because we were operating as a “division” of another Chamber we felt our best interest could be better served and with an organization that was ours and one that would give 100% to its members. With encouragement from Cheryl Stalinsky, Economic Development Director – City of Fulshear, several business leaders started to meet and brain storm about how to get a grass roots organization off the ground. It was decided early on that we wanted to set ourselves apart from other Chambers in the area and be as unique as the City we call home. In December of 2013 a plan was put into action and the effort began to create the Fulshear Area Chamber of Commerce.

become recognized as a strong advocate for our members and the City of Fulshear as a whole. The Chamber now is host to three Downtown Festivals, the annual State of the City Address, a golf tournament, a casino night and an educational piece called “How to Win Wednesdays” held every second Wednesday of the month. Monthly membership meetings are held every first Wednesday. The Chamber gives members an opportunity to hold mixers and open houses to further promote their business and as a new member of the FACC each business schedules a “Rope Cutting”, yes, Rope Cutting! FACC is always looking for ways to set ourselves apart from the crowd and a rope cutting instead of the traditional ribbon cutting. It is just one of the unique features of the FACC. The rope symbolizes the strength of the Chambers members that binds us all together. The very popular and recognizable FACC logo harkens back to Fulshear’s past and Churchill Fulshears’ love of horses.

THE FUTURE OF THE FACC IS VERY BRIGHT! With the population growth in the area and the continued efforts of leadership and members, the Chamber will continue to grow and become an even stronger advocate and asset to the area business community as time goes on.

On December 15, 2013 The FACC hired Don McCoy as its Executive Director. Don brought the energy, creative skills, loyalty and enthusiasm that we were looking for in a Director. He has been an incredible asset and driving force behind the rapid success of our Chamber.

There are many plans in place for this growth and we will continue to increase the benefits of being a member of FACC. We welcome any business in the Fulshear area to experience what a close knit, dedicated and enthusiastic advocate like the FACC can be for their business.

In January of 2014 the membership elected the first Board of Directors. I was honored to be elected to the Board along with Rebecca Hafner, Terry Crockett, Tricia Wright, Mark Ball, Nancy King and Michael Martin.

I would like to thank all who have given of their time and resources to make the first two years of the Fulshear Area Chamber of Commerce the success it has been and I look forward to many, many years of increased success for the Fulshear area business community!

I have had the privilege of serving as the President of the Executive Committee for the first two years. It has been extremely rewarding and also very challenging. With the dedicated efforts of our Executive Director, Board and Members we have seen the Chamber grow to over 250 members and we have quickly

Sincerely,

Randy Stacy | BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT 832-600-3221 | www.FulshearAreaChamber.com

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DYNAMIC VISION CENTER

(281) 220-2100 - www.katytxhomes.com

(281) 394-2933 - www.brazosoms.com

MARTIN MORTGAGE*

BROWN & GAY ENGINEERS, INC.

ECO2 OFFICE

BUESCHER PERSONAL FITNESS*

EDWARD JONES*

CAMP BOW WOW KATY, TX

EFTEX BUSINESS SERVICES, LLC*

CARING4KATY

ELKO CONSULTING, LP DBA IMPROVE IT! CONSULTING & TRAINING*

FULSHEAR REAL ESTATE PARTNERS L.P. (713) 302-0555

INDEPENDENCE TITLE COMPANY* (281) 533-9922 - www.independencetitle.com

KATY LIVING/GOOD CENTS ADVERTISING* (281) 239-3971 - www.goodcentsad.com

KATY REAL ESTATE ENTERPRISES DBA: KELLER WILLIAMS PREMIER REALTY

(281) 533-9952 - www.martinmortgageonline.com

MEMORIAL HERMANN (832) 229-6662 - www.memorialhermann.org

NEWFIRST NATIONAL BANK* (832) 344-2036 - www.newfirst.com

PRO IMAGE* (713) 806-3016 - www.proimagepromotional.com

RANDLE LAW OFFICE LTD., L.L.P.* (281) 657-2000 - www.jgradyrandlepc.com

SECOND BAPTIST CHURCH (713) 465-3408 - www.second.org

SEVERN TRENT SERVICES (281) 646-2364 - www.stservices.com

STATE FARM INSURANCE - TODD SHIPP*

(281) 407-4844 - www.AthensCapitalLending.com (281) 392-2050 - www.autumnleaves.com (281) 346-1432 - www.fortbend.lib.tx.us

(281) 712-1047 - www.katy.bookkeepingexpress.com

(281) 558-8700 - www.browngay.com (281) 794-3220 - www.buescherfitness.com (281) 849-3647 - www.campbowwow.com/katy (409) 673-9802 - www.caring4katy.org

CASA DE NUEZ*

(281) 533-9457 - www.casadenuez.com

CASEY POPE PROPERTIES*

(281) 346-1100 - www.caseypope.com

CATHY CRAIG PROPERTIES (832) 449-2320

CENTRAL FORT BEND CHAMBER (281) 342-5464 - www.cfbca.org

CHAMPION RESTORATION

(713) 464-4255 - www.toddshipp.com

(281) 395-9000 - www.ChampionRestoration.com

TAYLOR MORRISON

(713) 463-4815 - www.schwab.com

(281) 780-4652 - www.taylormorrison.com

TESTAROSSA MOTORS 2 (281) 901-4167 - www.testarossamotors.com

TEXAS INSURANCE AGENCY - FULSHEAR* (281) 533-9067 - www.FulshearInsurance.com

WAGGIN’ TAILS PET RANCH* (281) 533-0500 - www.waggintailspetranch.com

BRONZE

CHARLES SCHWAB & CO., INC CHUCK BUCEK, CPA P.C.

(832) 471-6144 - www.chuckbucekcpa.com

CHUCKWAGON BBQ & BURGERS

(281) 394-7784 - www.chuckwagonbbqburgers.com

CINCO TIRE & AUTO

(281) 392-4900 - www.cincotireandauto.com

CINCOAUTO2

(281) 394-9170 - www.cincoauto.com

CLASSIC CHEVROLET (281) 491-9000

CLEAN SWEEP PROPERTY SERVICES

1ST TEXAS HOME HEALTH*

(281) 533-6000 - www.arayaclean.com

3SOURCE GROUP*

(713) 462-3242 - cobbfendley.com

5 STAR REAL ESTATE*

(281) 392-3440 - www.colburnspestcontrol.com

ACB SOLUTIONS*

(281) 238-1430 - www.Rob.Cook@fortbendcountytx.gov

AFLAC

(713) 730-9991 - www.conciergecaffe.com

AGELESS MED SPA

(281) 341-0900 - corralwesternstore.com

ALL-TERRA ENGINEERING

(713)-783-7788 - www.costelloinc.com

(281) 829-9314 - www.first-texas.com (832) 278-5524 - www.3sourcegroup.com (281) 346-1412 - www.wlakes.com (888) 238-4225 - www.acbsolutions.net (832) 207-5243 - www.aflac.com (281)-392-3700 - agelessmedspakaty.com (713) 574-2371 - www.all-terra.com

COBB, FENDLEY & ASSOCIATES COLBURN’S PEST CONTROL SERVICE, INC.* CONSTABLE ROB COOK CONCIERGE CAFFE

CORRAL WESTERN STORE COSTELLO, INC

COUNTY JUDGE BOB HEBERT (281) 341-1454

(281) 533-0909 - dekkersmesquitegrill.net (281) 814-8533 - www.deborahdavid.com (281) 346-1411 - www.doziersbbq.com (281) 744-2669 - www.dreamlandscapedesign.com (281) 665-3274 - www.dynamicvc.net (832) 437-3204 - www.eco2officekaty.com (281) 242-3307 - www.edwardjones.com (832) 315-1165 - www.eftexllc.com

(281) 799-0930 - www.improveitsolutions.com

EMPLOYERS ONE SOURCE GROUP (281) 492-9292 - www.eosg.com

ER KATY*

(281) 395-9900 - www.erkaty.com

FIRST CHOICE EMERGENCY ROOM (972) 899-6662 - www.fcer.com

FIRST CUP CAFE

(281) 989-1171 - www.yourfirstcupcafe.com

FIRST FULSHEAR UMC*

(281) 346-1416 - www.firstfulshear.org

FIT SENSE, LLC

(832) 600-4474 - www.fitsense-llc.com

FOREVER FULSHEAR* (713) 703-4129

FORT BEND CARES FOUNDATION

(832) 819-2005 - www.FortBendCares.org

FORT BEND COFFEE ROASTERS

(281) 732-4716 - www.fortbendcoffee.com

FORT BEND COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE (281) 341-4664 - www.fbcsheriff.org

FRONTIER TITLE COMPANY

(281) 391-9181 - www.frontiertitletexas.com

FULSHEAR BOUQUETS AND BLOOMS*

(281) 533-9468 - www.fulshearbouquets&blooms.com

FULSHEAR FAMILY MEDICINE*

(281) 346-0018 - www.fulshearfamilymed.com

FULSHEAR GRAPHICS*

(832) 244-2411 - www.fulshear.graphics

FULSHEAR OUTREACH & DEVELOPMENT (832) 492-5136 - www.FulshearOutreach.org

FULSHEAR - SIMONTON LIONS CLUB

(281) 346-4156 - www.fulshearsimontonlionsclub.org

FULSHEAR - SIMONTON FIRE DEPARTMENT (281) 346-2800 - www.fsfd.org

FULSHEAR TREE SERVICES

(713) 302-0555 - www.fulsheartreeservices.com


FULSHEAR POLICE DEPARTMENT

MD ANDERSON

STEWART TITLE COMPANY*

GABY’S*

MEDINA ORTHODONTICS

STIEBER INS GROUP LLC*

GALLERY FURNITURE

MELISSA MARSHALL KELLER WILLIAMS PREMIER

TEMPERATUREPRO OF FORT BEND

GNA INSPECTIONS, PLLC

TERRA POINT REALTY, LLC

GRAND WINDOWS & INTERIORS*

MICHAEL T. McCANN FOUNDATION, INC BIKE FOR MIKE - camccann@me.com MILAGRO SALONS

HALO PROFESSIONALS

MIMOSA ROSE*

TEXANA CENTER*

HANDLEBAR CYCLERY

MINDFUL ART*

TEXAS COUNTRY PROPERTIES*

HEALTHONE 24 HOUR EMERGENCY CARe WEST CAMPUS*

MKM PHOTOGRAPHY & DESIGN*

TEXAS ORTHODONTIC SPECIALISTS

MOSQUITO DEFENSE SOLUTIONS

THE BUNKER ICEHOUSE*

NANCY JONES PHOTOGRAPHY

THE ESCAPE SPA AND WELLNESS CENTER

NANCY KING - KELLER WILLIAMS PREMIER REALTY*

THE EXOTIC URN

NATURALAWN OF AMERICA*

THE GROWLER SPOT

NEW CREATION LUTHERAN CHURCH

THE GYM STATION WEST CINCO*

NORTH FORT BEND WATER AUTHORITY

THE SALONS OF FULSHEAR / THE LYME LEOPARD

OLD FOSTER COMMUNITY MUSEUM

THE SPORTS MARKETING COMPANY

OMNI ONLINE SOLUTIONS

THE SWEET TOOTH SHOPPE INC.*

ORIGAMI OWL

THRIVE CHURCH*

PARKWAY FELLOWSHIP

TOM DUTKA AGENCY*

JOHN PHAM KELLER WILLIAMS PREMIER REALTY

PATHPOINTS TO WELLNESS HEALING ARTS & RETREAT CENTER*

TOPMARK REALTY

KATHIE LAUHOFF KELLER WILLIAMS PREMIER

PAYCHEX*

KATY CONTEMPORARY ARTS MUSEUM

PHYSICAL THERAPY CARE & AQUATIC REHAB OF FORT BEND

(281) 533-0220 - www.gabysetc.net (281) 687-1263 - www.galleryfurniture.com (832) 567-3293 - GNAInspections.com (281) 342-9160 - www.grandwindows.com (281) 860-2535 - www.haloalarmshouston.com (832) 437-7584 - www.handlebarcyclery.com

(281) 232-1600 - www.healthonehouston.com

HOME INSTEAD SENIOR CARE

(281) 882-9453 - www.homeinstead.com/252

HOPE FOR THREE*

(800) 317-0787 - www.hopeforthree.org

HOUSER ROOFING

(979) 472-9176 - www.houserroofingtx.com

HOUSTON CHRONICLE

(713) 362-5163 - www.houstonchronicle.com

HOUSTON PEDIATRIC DENTAL SPECIALISTS, PC (281) 346-8326 - www.smilesgonewild.net

IMAGINE REALTY INTERNATIONAL

(832) 444-2363 - www.imaginerealtyinternational.com

INFINITE NETWORK TECHNOLOGIES* (540) 207-6778

INTEGRATED CHIROPRACTIC & WELLNESS (281) 346-8023 - www.ichirowellness.com

ITALIAN MAID CAFE

(281) 341-1587 - www.italianmaidcafe.com

JDC FIRETHORNE

(281) 395-1440 - www.firethorne.info (832) 477-1089 - www.johnpham@kw.com (713) 562-8502 - www.kathielauhoff.com (832) 541-7981 - www.katycam.com

(832) 334-3738 - www.mdanderson.org (281) 394-9300 - www.medianbraces.com (281) 386-9772 - www.navigatemymove.com

(281) 778-2500 - www.milagrosalons.com (281) 392-8594 - www.mimosarose.com (713) 303-4381 - www.mindful-art.com

(281) 750-2551 - mkmphotographydesign.zenfolio.com (281) 889-8499 - www.Mosquito-Defense.com (815) 546-9458 - www.nejstudio.com (713) 503-5171 - www.nancykingrealty.com

(281) 392-2990 - houstonwest.naturalawn.com (832) 492-5136 - www.NewCreationFulshear.org (713)-488-8253 - nfbwa.com

(281) 239-2178 - www.fostercommunitymuseum.org (713) 825-8868 - www.omnionlinesolutions.com (713) 703-1554 - www.carmenizzo.origamiowl.com (832) 222-8282 - Parkwayfellowship.com

(832) 461-6936 - www.pathpointstowellness.com (832) 914-3721 - www.paychex.com

KATY FAMILY YMCA

(281) 347-8900 - www.ptcare.net

KATY LIVING/GOOD CENTS ADVERTISING*

(281) 574-8674 - www.ProsperityBankUSA.com

KATY MEDIA ROOMS, LLC

(832)-474-8369 - www.rafterbipm.com

KATY PAIN SPECIALISTS

(713) 503-6247 - www.mgramey1@gmail.com

KATY PLANTATIONS HANDCRAFTED SHUTTERS

(281) 533-0099 - raysgrill.com

KELLY BELL - KELLER WILLIAMS PREMIER REALTY

(281) 533-9863 - www.redpotatomarket.com

KEN BRANCH AND ASSOCIATES

(281) 346-0222 - www.movewest.net

KRENEK LAW OFFICES

(281) 346-8032

LANIER PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES LLC

(281) 391-8555 - www.remedyroofing.com

LATHROP DENTAL CENTER*

(281) 342-6969 - ww.JohnZerwas.com

LAW OFFICE OF KAREN VAN HOLTEN*

(713) 294-9691 - www.seetimsell.com

LAZIT INDUSTRIES

(281) 346-8189

LEGAL SHIELD

(281) 793-5779 - www.paularucky.com

LEGEND POOLS

(281) 979-5507 - www.legendpools.com

www.facebook.com/pages/Saenz-of-The-Time/ 1418420968395669

LEONETTI GRAPHICS INC.

SANDEFUR CPA, P.C.*

(281) 499-4959 - www.leonettigraphics.com

(281) 533-0911 - www.sandefurcpa.com

LEVIN & ATWOOD, LLP

SAM’S CLUB

(281)-579-6044 - www.levinandatwood.com

(281) 202-0337 - www.samsclub.com

LIBERTY STAR MORTGAGE a branch of SecurityNational MC NMLS 3116*

SCENTSY* - (832) 545-8121

LISA ANGELL, LMT* - (713) 530-1763 LITTLE V VIETNAMESE BISTRO*

(979) 251-7888

LIVING MAGAZINE

SERVPRO OF WEST FORT BEND COUNTY* - (281) 342-5326

(281) 392-5055 - www.ymcahouston.org/katy (281) 239-3971 - www.goodcentsad.com

(281) 780-9383 - www.katymediarooms.com (281) 665-8552 - www.katypain.com (281)-402-1280 - www.katyplantations.com

(713) 201-7537 - www.homesearchkatytx.com

( 281) 346-1715 - www.kennethanddeloisbranch.com (281) 578-7711 - www.tkthompson@kreneklaw.com (713) 504-3755 - www.drstaceylanier.com

(832) 437-3849 - www.lathropdentalcenter.com (713) 865-0229 - www.vanholtenlaw.com (281) 334-9969

(281) 750-5317 - www.legalshieldassociate.com

(281) 558-0004 - www.libertystarmortgage.com

(281) 394-9888 - littlevbistro.com

(972) 882-1300 - www.livingmagazine.net

LJA ENGINEERING, INC.*

(713) 953-5131 - www.ljaengineering.com

LOUETTA AUTOMOTIVE

(281) 304-2517 - www.louettaauto.com

MADAM DJ

(713) 714-7357 - www.madamdj.com

MAPP CONSTRUCTION

(281) 582-3696 - www.mappconstruction.com

MAS SOLUTIONS LLC

(281) 494-4874 - www.masquality.com

MCFRUGALS DRY CLEAN DEPOT

(832) 589-2885 - www.mcfrugalsdc.com

(281) 346-1333 - www.stewart.com/houston (281) 341-7141 - www.stieberinsurance.com (281) 616-5999 - www.temperatureprofortbend.com (281) 346-2112 - www.terrapointrealty.com

TERRELL ROOFING AND CONSTRUCTION

(832) 535-9211 - www.terrellroofingandconstruction.com (281) 239-1427 - www.texanacenter.com (281) 346-1136

(281) 346-8326 - www.texasorthodonticspecialists.com (281) 923-8833

(281) 202-4271 - www.theescapespa.net (281) 533-9599 - www.theexoticurn.com

(832) 600-5856 - www.thegrowlerspot.com (281) 394-7844 - www.gymstation.com (281) 533-9332

(832) 945-2220 - www.thesportsmarketingcompany.com (281) 533-0477 - www.sweettoothshoppe.com (979) 884-7483 - thrivechurch.cc (281) 633-0630 - agents.allstate.com (281) 698-7787 - topmarkrealty.com

TRACY BOGIEL BETTER HOMES & GARDENS GARY GREENE* (281) 646-1136 - www.ilovefulsheartx.com

TRACY GREMILLION - KELLER WILLIAMS PREMIER (281) 723-9890 - www.isellkatytx.net

PROSPERITY BANK

TRICIA TURNER PROPERTIES / A RE/MAX EXPERIENCE

RAFTER B IPM LLC

UPCLOSE MAGAZINE LLC

RAMEY REALTY

VAN HOLTEN LAW FIRM*

RAY’S GRILL

VICTOR’S MEXICAN GRILLE* - (281) 533-0040

RED POTATO MARKET

VISION INSPIRED EYE CARE

RE/MAX REALTY WEST*

VOTE WAYNE THOMPSON

REAL LIVING KARAPASHA REALTY*

W.A. “ANDY” MEYERS

REMEDY ROOFING, INC.

WATERCREST CRUISE TRAVEL

REPRESENTATIVE JOHN ZERWAS M.D.

WESTERN VIEW REAL ESTATE / KW PREMIER

RHONDA POHLMAN KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY

WESTHEIMER LAKES DENTAL

ROCK PAPER SCISSORS HAIR STUDIO

YAHLEI BARRIOS*

RUCKY PROPERTIES - REMAX GRAND

YONG’S ASIAN FUSION*

SAENZ OF THE TIME - (713) 876-5680

www.sharonsensationalscents.scentsy.us

SENATOR LOIS KOLKHORST SEND OUT CARDS

(281) 772-3971 - www.sendoutcards.com

www.servproofwestfortbendcounty.com

SHALYE ENTERPRISE DBA NATURALAWN OF AMERICA*

(281) 392-2990 - houstonwest.naturalawn.com

SHOWALTER LAW FIRM

(281) 341-5577 - www.showalterlaw.com

SILPADA DESIGNS*

(469) 826-3564 - www.silpada.com

SJR FAMILY PARTNERSHIP, LTD* - (281) 468-3588 STATE FARM INSURANCE - JEFF GILBERT* (281) 347-6200 - www.yourareaneighbor.com

STATE REPRESENTATIVE JOHN ZERWAS M.D. (281)-342-6969 - www.JohnZerwas.com

(832)-563-0916 - www.har.com/TriciaG

(281)-235-0600 - UpCloseMagazine.Com (713) 865-0229 - www.vanholtenlaw.com www.victorsmexicanrestaurant.com

(281) 394-2877 - visioninspiredeyecare.com (713) 202-2252 - www.votewaynethompson.com (281) 238-1400 - www.andy.meyers@fortbendcountytx.gov (281) 533-4101 - www.watercrestcruisetravel.com (832) 857-4550 - www.westernview.kwrealty.com (281) 394-7581 - www.westheimerlakesdental.com (832) 628-7866 - www.liveinfulshear.com (281) 346-8196 - www.yongsasianfusion.com

MMEMBER EMBER D IRECTORY DIRECTORY

(281) 346-2202 - www.facebook.com/FulshearPolice


F ULSHEA R MA G A ZIN E

ADVER TISER DIRECTORY

78

ADVERTISER

PG

PG

ADVERTISER

Arts Fulshear

58

IFC

The Johnson Development Corp.

Belmont Village

39

32

Independence Title Company

Better Homes & Gardens, Gary Greene

10

28

Keller Williams Premier

Blessington Farms

54

38

Law Office of Karen Van Holten

Briscoe Manor

21

62

Martin Mortgage

Brookshire Hardware

70

BC

Memorial Hermann

Cammarata Pediatric Dentistry Group

42

01

NewFirst National Bank

DHK Development Inc

02

66

Pediatric Dentist of Katy, PA

ER Katy

39

43

Rucky Properties - RE/MAX Grand

First Cup Cafe

67

48

Second Baptist Church

Fort Bend Charities, Inc

49

27

Steinhauser’s

Freeman Salem Mortgage Team

71

16

Superior Farm & Ranch Realty LLC

Fulshear Area Chamber of Commerce

74

22

Sunset Pools

Fulshear Family Medicine

66

55

Texas Custom Patios

Fulshear Flower Shop

80

IBC

Fulshear Tree Service

17

07

Texas Orthodontic Specialists

The Gayle Bowen Team

20

04

Trend Development

Houston Methodist West Hospital

09

33

Westheimer Lakes Dental

Houston Pediatric Dental Specialists

59

03

West Side Realty

Texas Insurance Agency


WW W.FU LSHEA R. CO M

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Photo by Katie Mecham





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