Rose-Rich Magazine Spring 2011 by Rose Rich Media

Volume 3, Issue 2

Spring 2011

Celebrating the Twin Cities of the Gulf South & Surrounding Areas

M A G A Z I N E

—Since 2008—

Inside...

The Legacy Ford Family

Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

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President www.indulgence pecangrove.com 832-595-6001

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New American School

Debbie Elder

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Mary Kay Cosmetics

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Family to Family Adoptions

Alicia Casias Agency Nationwide Insurance

Cornerstone Mortgage Company

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suarezb@nationwide.com 281-341-5060

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Laura is co-owner, along with her mother Anne, of Indulgence Day Spa and Salon. She is a licensed skin care specialist. Laura has been a renowned make-up artist for over 7 years, working on feature films, fashion shows, and many photo shoots.

Miryam— Hair Stylist

Madeline—Massage Therapist

Charles— Hair Stylist & Salon Director

Miryam’s warm and funny nature comes out all the time. She loves to spend time with her clients.

Facials Eye Lash Extensions Waxing Body Treatments Skin Care Visit our website for a full list of services and prices:

Madeline is a dedicated and client focused licensed massage therapist. With special skills in to calm & relax clients, she has an exceptional knowledge of trigger point’s therapy & to adjust a treatment plan to resolve client pain.

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contents

Volume 3, Issue 2 • Spring 2011

Janice Polk – In memory of the first lady of Greater Power Baptist Church. u Page 23

Caballero-Ryder – And how it all began. u Page 48

Joe Gurecky – Long-time Rosenberg mayor announced retirement. u Page 16

departments editor’s note u Page 11 area news u Page 13 school break u Page 26

texas in history u Page 53 texana talks u Page 36 lineage & legacy u Page 22

editor’s note Publisher/Founder/Editor-in-Chief: Leslie C. Ferdinand Graphic Designer Katey Arnold

Sales Executive Cyndia Rodriguez

Photographers Larry Pullen Hesma Stephens

Contributing Writers Clinton Drake Anthony Megahey Tom Wilson Diane Elko Kelly Gottuso Mortimer Funsho Fagbohun, MD

Printing Publication Printers Accounting Thomas Crayton, CPA

Dear Reader, Spring is upon us and it is a time to celebrate nature’s reawakening. The sweet scents in the air. The brilliance of the surrounding colors. The hope for a new beginning. No matter the circumstances, if we carry a shred of hope, then we have the ability to give flight to our dreams. We are happy to get another peek at Legacy Ford, Ron and Juliana Ewer’s dealership that has fast become a community institution. They, along with the staff of Legacy Ford, embody the spirit of America, family values and community service.

77471. Tel: 281-769-8321. Online at: www.RoseRich.org. Inside Rose Rich Magazine is published quarterly by Inside Rose Rich Magazine. Inside Rose Rich Magazine is distributed free of charge. Additional or back issues are available at the office for $4.00 per copy. Annual subscriptions are $16.00. Reproduction in whole or part without express permission is strictly prohibited.

Increase Your Business Today! “You were born to win, but to be a winner, you must plan to win, prepare to win, and expect to win”! —Zig Ziglar

Many years ago, Mr. Burns, my English professor in college gave us an endless array of poems, plays, and biographies to dissect and give a personal meaning to. There was, of course, Dylan Thomas’ Do not go gentle into that good night. But, William Ernest Henley’s Invictus always resonated with me. And, so as this issue wrapped up and the interviews with the Ewers and their staff wrapped up, it reminded me that, as we walk the road to wisdom and strength, we become the masters of our fates and the captains of our souls by handling our trials and tribulation with dignity, faith, and determination. Invictus

Experience more success in your business in 2010! Make the choice to utilize the “Power of Referrals”! We offer a proven success system that uniquely helps you to meet other business owners face to face, as well as, in print and on the internet! Find out how you can create strategic alliances in 2010 to grow your business through Referrals!

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Out of the night that covers me,   Black as the Pit from pole to pole,   I thank whatever gods may be  For my unconquerable soul.    In the fell clutch of circumstance  I have not winced nor cried aloud.   Under the bludgeonings of chance   My head is bloody, but unbowed.    Beyond this place of wrath and tears   Looms but the Horror of the shade,   And yet the menace of the years   Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.    It matters not how strait the gate,   How charged with punishments the scroll.  I am the master of my fate:   I am the captain of my soul. —William Ernest Henley

Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

Area News — Rosenberg, TX City Joins Downtown Merchants to Announce “Summer Fun” 2011 The City of Rosenberg is proud to join the Downtown Merchants of Rosenberg (DMOR) in announcing the line-up for 2011 “Summer Fun in Historic Downtown Rosenberg.” Events will occur the third Saturday of each month in Rosenberg’s Historic Downtown District from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and are designed to showcase Downtown and help celebrate Rosenberg’s heritage while providing free, familyfriendly activities and entertainment throughout the day. Downtown merchants will be open for business with specials running all day long, and are coordinating three of the four Saturdays to raise awareness of the diversity of shops and goods available in Downtown Rosenberg. Summer Fun will run every 3rd Saturday from June 18 to September 17. There is no admission fee for the events. June 18, “Czech Heritage Day,” will feature Cary Oswald & The Lazy Farmers Band which will take the 3rd Street Park stage along with local polka dancers throughout the day. Attendees can also enjoy a kolachebaking contest and sausage samples from Rosenberg’s own Kovasovic’s Meat Market. The Czech Heritage Society will have a booth set up to display Czechoslovakian goods, and talented musicians from Mrs.

Richmond, TX

Turner’s Music School will entertain crowds. The Art League of Fort Bend will be on hand with a display of their artwork. July 16, “Tribute to America,” will include musical entertainment by The Sugarland Brass Company, a blues and jazz band which many enjoyed during last year’s Summer Concert series Downtown, and the Touch of Brass Band. Mrs. Turner’s talented stars will be back performing throughout the day and the Downtown Merchants will be competing in a homemade ice cream contest to be judged by event attendees. If the ice cream doesn’t fill you up, be sure to try your hand at the hotdog-eating contest. The Rosenberg Police Department will offer SWAT and K9 demonstrations and the Rosenberg Fire Department will be on hand with their Fire Safety House. Artists from the Art League of Fort Bend will have a booth set up with their paintings. August 20, “Rosenberg Roundup,” will feature Texas Wild, a country and western band, along with the Brazos River Pickers as the day’s musical entertainment. There will be a children’s area for calf-roping as well as a watermelon-seed-spitting contest. There will also be a bicycle parade with prizes. Mrs. Turner’s talented stars will perform throughout the day and artists from the Art League of Fort Bend will have a booth set up to display their work.

Month and is designed to help celebrate Rosenberg’s Hispanic heritage. The Downtown event will feature Mariachi bands, dance performances and cultural exhibits throughout the day. The Fort Bend Hispanic Heritage Forum will have a booth and is helping coordinate activities and entertainment throughout the day. There will be children’s activities and food contests/samples as well. Mark your calendars for a “Summer Fun” series you don’t want to miss – every third Saturday from June through September. Bring your family and friends, and don’t forget your dancing shoes! Specific details for each event will follow as the dates draw nearer. Come down and spend time exploring Historic Downtown Rosenberg, and everything it has to offer. For more information, please visit www.RosenbergEvents.com, www. ShopRosenberg.net, or call 832-595-3520.

The Breast Center Has Moved— We’ve Expanded to Serve You Better! Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s new Breast Center has just completed a significant

September 17, “Hispanic Heritage Day,” coincides with National Hispanic Heritage

Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

Area News — Rosenberg, TX

Richmond, TX

expansion to provide even more services to Fort Bend and surrounding counties.

way through surgery or radiation, if needed – all in one place” Phillips said.

Since opening our doors on August 1, 2009, the Breast Center rapidly outgrew its original facility. “We are meeting a very real need in the community,” says Stephen Phillips, M.D., board-certified breast radiologist. “The center is staffed by a multi-disciplinary team of breast care specialists, working together to provide the most comprehensive care possible in one convenient location. That is a combination that is difficult to beat and one our community is taking advantage of and using.”

In addition to providing the only full-service breast cancer screening and care in Fort Bend County, the Methodist Sugar Land Breast Center’s technology is second to none. The powerful whole body 3 Tesla MRI machine – typically found only in the nation’s top academic medical centers – provides stateof-the-art image resolution and features bilateral breast imaging and computer assisted detection. No other Fort Bend County hospital has a 3T MRI, Phillips said.

In response to the increasing demand for our services, the Breast Center recently moved to its new location off Town Center Blvd, still on the Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Campus. The larger space features a warm, comforting ambiance and more comfortable, spa-like furnishings to put patients at ease. Available at the relocated Breast Center is a full range of diagnostic services, including: • Digital mammography • Breast MRI • Diagnostic ultrasound • MRI-guided biopsy • Ultrasound biopsy

In the event of a cancer diagnosis, the Breast Center can coordinate all additional care with the hospital’s Cancer Center on campus and our skilled breast surgeons, oncologists and reconstructive surgeons on staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “As a breast surgeon at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, I work closely with the breast care team to ensure continuity of care for each patient,” says Sandra Templeton, M.D., board-certified surgeon specializing in breast surgeries and on staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “Since treatment should be as individual as patients, we are dedicated to providing a wide variety of cancer treatments from leading-edge radiation and oncology methodologies to surgical options.” To schedule a mammogram at the Breast Center, please call 281-242-PINK (7465).

• Stereotactic biopsy • Fine needle aspirations • Ductograms Our full-time breast radiologists are exclusively dedicated to breast care and read every image and ultrasound taken in the Breast Center with the use of state-of-the-art technology. Having this full-service expertise available to patients six days a week is unique to Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. When choosing a Breast Center to meet your needs, it does make a difference where you go. Patients who choose the Breast Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital can undergo a mammogram and, if necessary, an ultrasound or MRI often on the same day, pending insurance approval. In addition, all biopsies are sent to our on-site pathology department. “We are providing the full continuum of care – from screening all the

Methodist Sugar Land Hospital—New Technology Treating Varicose Veins With Minimally Invasive Procedure Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is now treating varicose veins with a new minimally invasive procedure. This new technique delivers quick recovery times and better cosmetic results to patients than the traditional procedure. Approximately 20 to 30 million Americans suffer from varicose veins disease. Varicose veins is a progressive disease that produces

Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

symptoms such as leg fatigue, heaviness, and itchiness. Patients are often embarrassed of the noticeable diseased veins on their legs. “Out of the many who suffer from this disease, 20-25% of woman and 10-15% of men, have varicose veins that are enlarged and discolored; sometimes skin ulcers appear near their ankles. These symptoms are caused by inefficient blood circulation in their veins,” said Ulises Baltazar, board certified vascular surgeon on staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. There are several conservative options which have been used in the past to treat the symptoms of the disease. However, treatments such as wearing stockings and exercising have shown to be problematic by merely minimizing the symptoms without addressing the underlying causes of the disease. The traditional surgical procedure of stripping the superficial veins, which was introduced in the 1960s, has also been unfavorable to patients because positive outcomes cannot be guaranteed. The traditional procedure is also painful for patients and results in a longer recovery due to the 20 to 30 incisions that must be made. With the new technology now being used at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, patients can put their concerns to ease. The TRIVEX System is a comprehensive attack for varicose veins disease, clinically proven by the FDA. Dr. Baltazar received hands on training under Dr. Greg Spitz, worldrenowned vascular surgeon in Chicago. Dr. Baltazar offers this treatment only at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. This is a minimally invasive procedure which allows patients to walk out the door within one to two hours of the surgery and return back to their normal activities within only a few days. “Positive results are assured with the TRIVEX System. During the procedure, I am able to visually confirm the location of the diseased veins, using a novel technique called transilluminated powered phlebectomy. This capability allows for accurate removal of large clusters of varicose veins with a minimal number of incisions,” said Baltazar. The TRIVEX powered phlebectomy procedure is able to deliver a quicker and more accurate procedure, resulting in a quick recovery and outstanding cosmetic

Area News — Rosenberg, TX results. Patients at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital are very satisfied knowing that, with the TRIVEX procedure; varicose veins have been completely removed, and therefore and recurrence is low. To make an appointment with Dr. Baltazar or a vascular surgeon in your area, please call Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s physician referral line 281-274-7500, or visit MethodistSugarLand.com.

Somers Named Child Advocate of the Year Pat Somers was named Child Advocate of the Year for 2010 at Child Advocates of Fort Bend’s Annual Volunteer Celebration. The celebration was held February 17, at Safari Texas Ranch. The event was attended by almost 200 volunteers, partners and staff. This honor is awarded to individuals who understand what it takes to make a nonprofit grow, they actively work to increase its social capital in the community, and they demonstrate that “whatever it takes attitude”, according to Executive Director Ruthanne Mefford. “Pat sets an example for all of us every day about how caring, impactful and fun a Child Advocate volunteer can be.” Somers became a volunteer in 1992 and was a member of the agency’s very first volunteer training class. During her 19 years of service, she has advocated for 17 children, often serving as an advocate on two cases at a time. She has provided curriculum for volunteer training and continuing education, using her skills as a teacher to continually enhance the agency’s volunteer training program. She is a member of the Volunteer Council, Friends Council and Board of Directors and recently opened her home for the Friends Membership Coffee. In 2002, she was awarded Volunteer of the Decade. Since then, her contributions have even increased. “She has spent countless hours coaching our staff, attending out of town trainings and tirelessly recruiting volunteers and prospective supporters to our agency,” according to Mefford.

Richmond, TX

of the Year), Jennifer Williams (Children’s Advocacy Center Volunteer of the Year), and Robert Wolter and Paul Yasilli (Event Volunteers of the Year). To see a list of all of the honorees, go to Child Advocates of Fort Bend’s website at www.cafb.org. Child Advocates of Fort Bend’s Magic Carpet Gala will be held April 2 at Safari Texas Ranch. The Gala and Auction raises money to support the agency’s programs for abused and neglected children. To attend this event, become a sponsor or for more information contact Irene Wisner at 281-3445108 or iwisnser@cafb.org

a yearly program organized by The George Foundation and the Fort Bend Chamber to engage high school students in giving back to their community. This year, 15 area high schools are participating in the YIP Program. Each high school selects a non-profit to volunteer at for their Group Project Day and also completes two county-wide project days during the year as well. Texana Center was honored to be a non-profit selected this year and truly enjoyed working with the students from Foster High School.

The World Premiere of Apart (aka ICD-10) at the 2011 SXSW Film Festival

Left to Right: Child Advocates of Fort Bend CASA Program Director Metoyer Ellis, Brad Somers, Pat Somers and Child Advocates of Fort Bend Executive Director Ruthanne Mefford. Somers was named Child Advocate of the Year at the agency’s annual Volunteer Recognition Banquet on February 17.

Apart had its world premiere at this year’s SXSW Film Festival in Austin, TX. The movie was co-produced by Natalie Angel. Her sister, Ashlyn, served as costume designer. Please continue to check out news and updates for Apart at www.apart-movie. com. For SXSW badge/pass/ticket details, click the Apart link at the top of the page and scroll down to the bottom of the page.

Foster High School and Texana Team Up thru Y.I.P.

FBSO Presents Tribute to the Big Scree on May 22

Recently, a group of Foster High School students, who are participating in this year’s Youth in Philanthropy (YIP) Program, planted a sensory garden at the Texana Learning Center at Missouri City. The group of students and some Texana Ambassadors worked together to plant a beautiful sensory garden for the individuals with intellectual & developmental disabilities who attend the Center. A special thanks to Justin Morales with Greenscape Associates and Joey Lenderman with Enchanted Garden for all their contributions to make this project a huge success!

Experience the excitement of some of the world’s greatest movies as the Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra pays tribute to the music of the big screen with Night at the Movies on Sunday, May 22. This concert, the final of FBSO’s 19th season, begins at 2 p.m. at the Stafford Centre.

The Youth in Philanthropy (YIP) Program is

Reserved seating is only $10 and $15 for adults. Children 12 and under are free with a reserved ticket. The standard discounts for seniors, students and military apply.

Concert-goers are sure to enjoy selections from a variety of cinematic genres including Star Wars, E.T., Bridge Over the River Kwai and many others. In addition to Star Wars, FBSO will perform a generous number of compositions by John Williams, one of the film industry’s best known composers.

Tickets are available at www.fbso.org or by calling 281.276.9642.

Other honorees at last night’s celebration include Carol Holton (Lifetime Hero Award), John Healey (Champion for Children Award), Cathy Barrett (CASA Volunteer Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

Area News — Rosenberg, TX Welcome Father Bert Baetz! St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Richmond TX 77406 welcomes new Priest, Father Bert Baetz.

Rosenberg City Mayor Joe M. Gurecky Releases Statement That He Will Not Seek Re-Election in May Rosenberg Mayor Joe M. Gurecky has served the citizens and staff of the City of Rosenberg since 1995 when he was elected as Council Member of District 4. In 1999, Gurecky was elected Mayor where he has served six terms; the twenty sixth and longest continuous tenured Mayor of Rosenberg’s 109 year history. Gurecky released the following statement explaining his decision and reflecting on his years in elected office: “Announcing my decision to not seek re-election at this time is the fairest thing to do for the electoral process. During my tenure as mayor, I have focused on providing responsive, responsible leadership to the citizens of Rosenberg by employing the basic principles

of fiscal conservatism - accountability, fighting excessive spending, reducing tax rates and providing a safe, secure community. I have worked diligently to make life better and more affordable for Rosenberg citizens, and since 1998, we have been able to decrease the tax rate by 5 cents per hundred dollar valuation. While our cost of living is rapidly rising, the City of Rosenberg has been able to put dollars back in our citizens’ pockets by reducing our tax rate. We are fortunate to live in a region that is experiencing unprecedented growth. Through proper management of this growth, Rosenberg has been able to quadruple property values contributing revenue to our city - from $519 million to over $1.9 billion in the last ten years. This growth has provided Rosenberg with vital funding to invest in city services, community resources and our aging infrastructure - all while reducing the tax burden for our citizens. Listening to the wants and needs of our citizens has been my priority. I believe in conservative, compassionate leadership that supports a balanced budget, fights excessive spending and invests our taxpayer’s hard earned dollars where they are most needed to help our community. In 2006, the citizens took action on upgrading the city’s existing facilities, equipment and infrastructure by voting for an $11.5 million Bond Proposition. With this initiative, we were able to improve our roads, provide relevant incentives for businesses to relocate to Rosenberg and

Important Phone Numbers ROSENBERG City of Rosenberg—832-595-3300 Rosenberg Police Department Non-Emergency*—832-595-3700 Rosenberg Fire Department Non-Emergency*—832-595-3600 Rosenberg Animal Control 832-595-3490 Rosenberg Civic Ctr—832-595-3520 Rosenberg Municipal Court 832-595-3450 Rosenberg Public Housing Authority—281-342-1456 Rosenberg Garbage/Recycling Pickup—832-595-3500 Rosenberg Deaf Community 832-595-3322 Rosenberg Post Office 281-342-3388

Richmond, TX

RICHMOND City of Richmond—281-342-5456 Richmond Police Department Non-Emergency*—281-342-2849 Richmond Fire Department Non-Emergency*—281-232-2828 City of Richmond Municipal Court 281-342-0578 Richmond Post Office 281-633-0386

NEEDVILLE City of Needville—979-793-4253 Needville Area Chamber of Commerce—979-793-5700 Needville Police Department Non-Emergency*—979-793-4255 Needville Fire Department Non-Emergency*—979-793-4236

repair sidewalks in our Historic Downtown District. As Mayor of Rosenberg, I am proud of our successes. Investing wisely in our community has made Rosenberg one of the safest cities in our region. Since 1996, our crime rate has decreased 46%. Our citizens deserve a safe place to live and raise their families, and through specialized training and state-of-the-art equipment, our police department is one of the finest. As I reflect on the past sixteen years, it has been my great privilege and an honor to have been elected to serve the citizens of the City of Rosenberg as their Mayor. I thoroughly enjoyed representing our City, and I want to thank the citizens of Rosenberg for their encouragement and support. I leave this office with gratitude for the exceptional people I have been fortunate to meet, for the life-changing experiences that come with a job like this, and for the honor of representing and serving the people of Rosenberg. To my wife, Doris, I thank you for the numerous times you altered your personal calendar to allow me to do the demanding job required of serving as Mayor.” Gurecky’s tenure as Mayor ends in May. A native of Fort Bend County and a third generation resident of Rosenberg, Gurecky will continue serving as Chairman of the Board of Gurecky Manufacturing Service, Inc. located in Rosenberg.

Needville Post Office—979-793-4427 Needville Tax Office—979-793-4254

LIBRARIES George Memorial Library, (Richmond)—281-342-4455 Bob Lutts Library, (Fulshear-Simonton)—281-346-1432 Alfred George, (Needville) 979-793-4270

FORT BEND COUNTY Main Line—281-342-3411 Auto Registration—281-341-3709 County Clerk Dianne Wilson 281-341-8685 D.A. John Healey—281-341-4460 Fairgrounds—281-762-8818 Health Department: Clinical Health—281-342-6414,

Environmental Health 281-342-7469 Senior Citizens-281-633-7049 Social Services-281-342-7300 Tax Assessor & Collector’s Office 281-341-3710 Veteran Services—281-341-4550 Voter Registration—281-341-8670

OTHER NUMBERS Lamar Consolidated ISD 281-223-0000 Rose-Rich Chamber of Commerce 281-342-5464 Small Business Development Ctr 281-341-5027 TX Dept of Public Safety (Driver’s Licenses)—281-232-4334 TW Davis YMCA—281-341-0791

*IMPORTANT: PLEASE DIAL 911 FOR EMERGENCIES

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Individuals who are homebound due to any physical/mental conditions or patients recently discharged from a hospital that need additional treatment such as therapy, wound care, diabetic care and other services. Patients or caregivers Rosenberg and Richmond Area

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that need to be taught about their medications, illness and treatment. Patients with limited physical/mental capacities needing assistance with their activities of daily living in addition to skilled services. Bay City Area

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Servicing the following counties: Austin, Brazoria, Calhoun, Chambers, Colorado, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Jackson, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Victoria, Walker, Waller and Wharton. Non Discrimination Policy. This Agency does not discriminate against any person on the basis of color, race, national origin, disability, or age in admission, treatment, or participation in programs, services and activities or in employment.

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memorial hermann Proven Leader in Health Care

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital named Official Sponsor of National Fusion Soccer Club National Fusion Soccer Club is proud to announce Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital as its official sponsor. The hospital will support National Fusion Soccer Club with its expertise in sports medical treatment, performance training and education.

“We are excited that Memorial Hermann Sugar Land will enhance our mission to offer a safe and enjoyable competitive soccer program that develops players both on the field and in the communities,” said Keith Weber, president of National Fusion Soccer Club. The partnership with Memorial Hermann Sugar Land will provide the club with the quality resources necessary to help players reach their full potential.

With the partnership, players and their families receive expedited access to the Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Emergency Center, rehabilitation services at Memorial Hermann Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation and preferential scheduling with Memorial Hermann Sugar Landaffiliated physicians. Additionally, athletic training services will be made available at club events, with off-site injury clinics to be mutually agreed upon by both parties. Competitive players will also have the option to utilize the ImPACT concussion testing offered by Memorial Hermann Sports Medicine. “With this new sponsorship, we can help players recover from injuries and give them more opportunities to excel in their sport,” said Jim Brown, CEO of Memorial Hermann Sugar Land. “The sponsorship underscores our commitment to providing quality care to those in our community.” National Fusion Soccer Club is a premier youth competitive soccer club servicing the Houston, West Houston, Katy, Richmond, and Sugar Land areas. The club provides trainer-led teams that play at the highest levels of youth play, as well as recreational options for players who want to develop their soccer skills. The Club emphasizes development of soccer players and positive citizens of the community with a focus on providing a safe, enjoyable soccer development program. Practice facilities are located in New Territory and George Bush Park.

Designed for female baby boomers, the popular event features noted television personality, author and psychotherapist Mary Jo Rapini, L.P.C., discussing the connection between a strong immune system and sexual intimacy. Other speakers include Memorial Hermann affiliated physicians who will provide new insights into breast imaging, stress management and more. Additional breakout sessions will provide pointers on caring for aging parents, forgetfulness and other useful topics. The luncheon style show features the winners of a fun makeover contest. Seating for the luncheon is limited so reserve your place by calling 713.222.CARE (2273). Cost of the luncheon is $10, payable at the door.

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital CEO Jim Brown, front right, knocks knuckles with a Fusion soccer player to celebrate the new partnership between Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital and National Fusion Soccer Club. Joining the celebration from back left are Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital Sports Medicine Coordinator Steven Ramirez, other Fusion players and National Fusion Soccer Club President Keith Weber. Photo by Larry Pullen.

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital Hosts Women’s Health Symposium The second annual Women’s Health Symposium, hosted by Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, returns on Saturday, May 14, with free health screenings and a luncheon style show. The free event is from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the University of Houston System at Sugar Land, 14000 University Blvd.

Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

The health symposium also offers attendees complimentary health screenings to measure blood pressure and bone density, plus free chair massages. Vendors will be on hand to share health and recreational products and services. As always, there will be plenty of exciting door prizes. Check-in and free continental breakfast begins at 9 a.m. The first session kicks off at 10 a.m. To reserve your place for the free Women’s Health Symposium and/or the $10 luncheon style show, please call 713.222. CARE (2273).

Mary Jo Rapini

The best kept secret in the housing community USDA Loans Once upon a time buying a home was just one of a series of steps that we expected to accomplish as we matured. Now, because of the economy and rising cost, the dream of home ownership seems to be harder and harder to realize. Questions start to race in our minds such as, where will I get my down payment? How much more do I need for closing cost? Will I even qualify for the loan? If you have asked these questions then rest assured GreenECO is here to help. While it is true that the economy is slower than it once was, it is not true that you have to have a small fortune saved to purchase one of our homes. This is because there are many state and private programs and grants available to help first time home buyers with the challenge of saving for a 3.5% down payment on a FHA loan. One of the most helpful programs is the USDA RD Program. USDA stands for United States Department of

Agriculture and the rural development program assist first time home buyers so that they can roll the down payment into the loan amount. This means that a buyer would be financing 100% of the loan amount plus 3.5%, which would be the down payment, for a total loan amount of 103.5%. One of the best features of this USDA loan is that a mortgage company typically has slightly higher interest rates than FHA loans, but it usually has considerably lower interest rates than most bond programs. The USDA loan sounds great for everyone but there are qualifications that have to be met when going through a mortgage lender. Some of the basic qualifications are: meeting the minimum required credit score, limits to family income, and payment history. These qualifications may vary slightly depending on the lender so I recommend that you visit the sales office at Summer Lakes or speak to your lender to see if you qualify. If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t qualify, then the next step is to see what we need to do to qualify you or what other programs may suit you better. The last two questions were, how much more do I need for closing cost and will I even qualify for the loan? These two questions can also be answered by visiting the sales office at Summer Lakes or by speaking to your mortgage lender. The RosenbergRichmond area and Summer Lakes community is one of the few places near Sugarland that still has this great program available and not all areas qualify so please speak to your realtor or sales agent for details.

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In Memory of Orin Covell: Orin Covell was a kind and generous man, who never seemed to meet a stranger. He was always willing to help wherever he was needed. From the first time I met him, when he agreed to an interview for the magazine as a ‘Colorful Character’, he was down-to-earth, kind, and funny. He always gave me access, for the magazine, to the George Historical Ranch without second thought, particularly the Spring 2009 cover and the cover for our current magazine featuring the Fossum Brothers. He couldn’t make it to the photo shoot that day, but he left us in capable hands. The last time I saw him, when he spoke at the Lone Star Exchange Club, about the George Ranch and Albert and Mamie George, he asked when would he see the photos. I promised him that it would be soon. We all get caught up, sometimes forgetting not to take life to its fullest and to live for the here and now, and not for the future. With his easy grace, he accepted that he’d see the photos ‘soon’. But soon never arrived because he was gone only days later. He might not have been known the world over, but within his world he was well-known, much admired and very respected. When we lose someone important to us, someone we love, or admire, a light extinguishes, but our memories of them burn ever bright within our hearts and souls. He belongs to the nimbus of the ages now and the angels are weeping with joy as they receive him into the Heavenly Kingdom. As everyone else who had the fortune to know him, I will miss him greatly. To his family and his colleagues, please accept our deepest sympathies. Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

“kevin knows” by Kevin D. Patton, State Farm Agent Think PPP When You Think Hurricane Safety Hurricane season is almost here. Many people have survived hurricanes without any harm, and with modern technology it almost seems that the path of a hurricane can be mapped out perfectly. But don’t be so sure. All the technology in the world cannot predict what Mother Nature will do. It’s important to pay attention not to just the black line forecasters use for the storm track but also the area on either side of it. The average error during the last 24 hours is about 85 miles, according to the National Hurricane Center in Miami. A moment to plan hurricane safety can give you peace of mind and keep your family and home safe. If you want to be hurricane-safe, just follow the three Ps:

Plan It’s always important for a family to have a plan for emergencies, whether it be a fire, earthquake or hurricane. Every family member must know what to do to stay safe. When a hurricane threatens, decide if your family will move to a safer place inland, go to a designated shelter or ride out the storm in your home. Make sure you stay in touch with local authorities to know the severity of the hurricane. You should also plan an escape route in case your family needs to evacuate.

Prepare Your home should have a survival kit prepared for any emergency. It should include non-perishable food items, a first aid kit, a battery-operated radio, a flashlight, fresh batteries and drinking water. Also include other items you might need such as medication, prescription glasses or your insurance information. To ensure your home is prepared, cover up windows and doors using hurricane shutters. If you don’t have shutters, cover your windows and doors with 3/4-inch plywood. Make sure your garage door is closed and anchored. Remember that serious hurricane damage can occur when wind and debris get into your house through a broken door or window.

Protect If you decide to ride out the hurricane, protect yourself. If you don’t need to evacuate the area, stay indoors away from windows or glass doors. Put as many walls between you and the storm as possible. If you don’t have a basement, go to a closet or a bathroom. If you need to leave the area, make sure you go directly to the shelter. Take your survival kit and lock all doors and windows before you go. Let your relatives or friends know where you plan to be. Those who have a hurricane plan do much better than those who don’t. Taking a moment to plan today may help you avoid last-minute panic. It could save your home and your family.

lineage & legacy

‘The Bell of Fort Bend’ deep in Texas History By Clinton J. Drake, Member of the Fort Bend Historical Commission

“Texas has yet to learn submission to any oppression, come from what source it may,” said Sam Houston. The mind-set of relentless endurance and fierce independence exhibited in Houston’s quote would carry the Texas Army to victory in the Revolution with Mexico. The Texans were faced with situations so dire that the only course was endurance or surrender, the latter not being a viable option. Officially, Texas Independence Day commemorates the adoption of the Texas Declaration of Independence on March 2, 1836, at Washington, Texas. Now the town also hosts an important artifact representing Fort Bend County’s role in the Revolution. The bell of Fort Bend County, after traveling the Lone Star State for over a century, resides at the Star of the Republic Museum in Washington. Most of Fort Bend County was destroyed by Mexican troops; therefore, the bell serves as a tangible reminder of the sacrifice and bravery exhibited by troops from Fort Bend. On Oct. 28, 1835, at the Battle of Concepcion at San Antonio de Bexar, Mexican soldiers surprised a Texian force that was camped near Mission Concepcion during the last offensive ordered by Gen. Martin Perfecto de Cos. The 275 Mexican troops under Domingo Ugartechea and the 90 Texians under James Bowie and James Fannin engaged in a 30-minute battle that ended in a Texian victory. Stephen F. Austin reported: “The overwhelming superiority of force, and the brilliancy of the victory gained over them, speak for themselves in terms too expressive to require from me any further eulogy.” Following the Battle of Concepcion and several other attacks, the Texians were low on ammunition and several of the men in Patton’s Company of Texas volunteers, including Fort Bend County resident Samuel Damon, resolved to remove two of the bells from the Mission Concepcion with the intention of melting them down for bullets. When the men unsuccessfully attempted to melt the first bell at Horseshoe Bend on the San Antonio River, Damon hid the second bell for later collection.

After storming the city and capturing General Cos, Damon reclaimed the bell and hauled it in his wagon back to his home at Damon’s Mound in Fort Bend County (now in Brazoria County), where he stashed it in his stable for safekeeping. When Santa Anna and his troops were en route from San Antonio to San Jacinto, they entered Fort Bend County, which had been mostly deserted when residents learned of the troops’ advance. Fort Bend residents returned to a devastating scene resulting from the slash-and-burn tactics utilized by the Mexican Army: Many homes and buildings were destroyed, including the stable where Damon had stored the bell. Mexican troops either overlooked the bell or did not take interest in recapturing it, for it was left untouched amidst the ruins. Shortly after the Revolution, Damon presented to bell to David Randon, a fellow soldier, who used it as the first plantation bell in the county. Around 1854-1855, Randon presented the bell to the Richmond Academy, where it rang out over the schoolyard until William Kendall, for whom the town of Kendleton is named, purchased the school after the Civil War and restored it as a private residence.

Druggist J.J. Schott for cleaning, which he found impracticable. Schott maintained possession of the bell until it was restored on March 24th, 1888, and returned to the Texas Historical Society. At a Society meeting in 1931, members voted unanimously to donate all of its holdings, including the bell, to the Rosenberg Library. The bell remained on display there for many years until it was loaned to the Star of the Republic Museum in the town of Washington. The Bell of Fort Bend has called many places home: Mission Concepcion, Damon’s Mound, Randon’s Plantation, the Star of the Republic Museum, and now at the Rosenberg Library in Galveston. The bell has summoned worshippers, slaves and schoolchildren, and witnessed every era — gloomy and hopeful — in the dynamic history of Texas.

With the assistance of Judge William P. Ballinger, Kendall donated the famous bell to the Texas Historical Society of Galveston in the 1870s.

**The David Randon Land Grant Picture was courtesy of the Government, Land, Office of the State of Texas**

Several inquiries were made about the fate of the bell after leaving Fort Bend. Would this old bell really still be around after a century of leaving the county?

w w w. P r o t e c t i o n O n e . c o m

Nikkie Ferre of the Rosenberg Library in Galveston was able to verify the story of the bell documented by Dr. Geo. Feris and Homer Darst, and confirmed the fate of the bell after leaving Fort Bend. Ferre elucidated that around 1883, the bell was delivered from the Texas Historical Society to

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In Memory of: Janice Polk

Monday, November 15, 2010, near three in the afternoon, I was leaving OakBend Medical Center. It was raining, a light, steady stream. The day had been a gray blanket. When I turned from 762 to get on US 59S, heading home, the dismal clouds glimmered pink in a section of the sky. That staggered gray blanket that had nestled as far as the eye could see was reflecting the sun’s rays as they beamed down from somewhere above. It looked like a stairway to heaven. I imagined my aunt Janice, as she passed from this life to the next, shedding her earthly bonds. Her soul was already a light from Heaven, reflecting the love and the laughter she was known for. Janice Hazel Brickley Polk was born in New Orleans, LA on February 5, 1953. She married my Uncle Blaise on December 12, 1980 and became first lady of Greater Power Baptist Church when my uncle acquired his own church in the early 90s. Every Sunday, without fail, she sat on that first pew, next to my grandmother, lending encouragement and support, a rocksolid foundation. She, along with Uncle Blaise, reared my cousins, Marlene, Torey, Blaise, Jr, and Perry (who passed away in 2004) and saw them become productive, upstanding adults with children of their own. While they had only four children, they mentored, guided, and counseled, so many more. My aunt Janice was quite a lady with a truly beautiful smile and dimples that lit up her face whenever she smiled. Which was often because she smiled all the time. From the time I was eight-years-old, I let very few people

touch my hair. She’d graduated from Jerome’s School of Cosmetology and she had ‘growing hands’. No one could do to my hair what she did to it. It was Aunt Janice who styled my hair when I posed on the cover of the Summer 2009 magazine. I always told her if I ever landed on the Oprah Winfrey Show for any reason, she would have to come with me and do my hair. When I went on the Rachael Ray Show and I asked could she accompany me, they politely declined. She had a lot of love to give to everyone. I don’t ever remember telling her how much I loved and appreciated her. It’s ironic that as I was exiting US59, a song by the O’Jays began playing on the radio. I had never really paid much attention to it and I’d barely registered anything that was on the airwaves. My girls had been silent. My mom had been silent and I’d just tried to stay focused on the road to get us home. I picked up the words mid-verse, She was right in the door. I could see her face. But how could it be? She ran away from me. My best friend’s gone, I’m so all alone. The song is, of course, a love song, but it summed up everything I was feeling. Indeed, it summed up everything my entire family was feeling. I listened to the rest, the sad, melodic tune, the melancholy words, But how could I know She would just up and go? My best friend gone, I’m so all alone. I really miss you, Brandy. I’m so all alone, When are you comin’ back home? I really miss you, Brandy. Missin’ you every day, Are you comin’ home to stay? Whenever the smooth tenor of Walter Williams, said the word Brandy, I substituted Janice. And she’d never come back to her corporeal home, but she was home. God loved her best, so He called her home.

Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

Tom is involved in several local groups as a volunteer or sponsor: Fort Bend Women’s Shelter; Convoy of Hope Medical Services Team; WCJC Advisory Committee on Continuing Education; Ambassador for the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance; YMCA Board of Directors.

It’s Not My Job!

strange title, I admit, but I bet you have heard it before at your workplace. Maybe you even overheard someone saying “It’s not part of my job description.” To make my point, let’s start with a short story about four people: Everybody, Somebody, Anybody, and Nobody. Here is how it goes….. “There was an important job to be done and Everybody was asked to do it. Everybody was sure Somebody would do it. Anybody could have done it, but Nobody did it. Somebody became angry about that, because it was Everybody’s job. Everybody thought Anybody could do it, but Nobody realized that Everybody wouldn’t do it. It ended up that Everybody blamed Somebody when Nobody did what Anybody could have done!” It is so often said that we need to achieve high performance. That, quite often, may mean doing a job/task outside the normal job duty. Sadly enough, we cannot go to a pump and get high octane gasoline that will make us go faster and burn more efficiently. I wish it was that easy for human beings to get a shot of “high performance,” but there are things we can do to achieve high levels of action on our jobs. They are not unique, are not magical, and certainly within our reach. It takes effort, but all winners seem to follow similar guidelines as they travel on their road to success. Do you….. *Care about your job? Top performers and top achievers all seem to care about what

by Tom Wilson, Reading Road Self Storage

they are doing. They are passionate about their work, and take a genuine interest in all aspects of it. Don’t allow yourself to stagnate. Get involved, expand your knowledge base, and learn to have fun at your job. *Take responsibility? Every top performer does! If things go wrong, who do you blame? Pushing blame onto other things and people only creates defeat for you. Everyone has ups and downs in their life (that’s what makes life interesting), but some whine, complain, and blame rather than accepting responsibility and dealing with their adversity head-on. Taking responsibility requires us to be tough! You know the saying, “When things get tough, the tough get going.” *Ask for help? Those who excel are not afraid to ask for assistance. This is a way of gaining strength rather than showing weakness. It sometimes requires one to put egos on the shelf. Seek your own network of sources to help you. If you don’t know the answer to an issue, at least know where or who to go to for assistance. *Think before you act? The top performers think out a plan before acting. It’s not important to expect perfection, but rather remain flexible in thinking as a situation unfolds. An old adage reminds us to not cut off our nose to spite our face. *Work as a team player? Share your knowledge, time, ideas, and effort. Be not stingy when it becomes necessary to share these things. Take pride in the fact that your counsel is sought by others. *Act in a positive manner? Spend little time with past mistakes. A top performer keeps busy getting on to the next challenge and opportunity and uses past errors as learning experiences.

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w w w. s u m m e r l a k e s s e l f s t o r a g e . c o m

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School

Break

George Junior High’s Sullivan named Counselor of Excellence

The Gulf Coast Tech Prep Consortium recently named George Junior High’s Jennifer Medina Sullivan a “Counselor of Excellence.” The award is based on her service to students at George JH and her work with LCISD’s STEPS (Student Tailored Programs of Study) program. George JH principal Kelly Waters nominated her for the award. “Jennifer works hard to ensure all George Junior High students begin to discover how their interests and abilities can assist them in uncovering their career paths,” said Tracie Holub, LCISD’s Career and Technical Director. “She also helps identify courses that can help students gain a better understanding of the knowledge and skills associated with their career pathways.”

Lamar CISD’s website was honored Thursday night at the Texas School Public Relations Association’s annual Star Awards Banquet, earning Best of Category.

Lamar Consolidated High’s Richerson advances to state art contest Lamar Consolidated High School artists brought home 15 Gold Medals after competing with 1,530 students at the Region 4 South Visual Arts Scholastic Event (VASE), February 19 at Clear Falls High School. The event is sponsored by the Texas Art Education Association. Lamar CHS’s Stephanie Richerson is one of only 80 students to advance to State competition, April 8-9 in League City. Richerson’s aboriginal artwork is a twodimensional piece representing Romeo and Juliet. Peggy Artripe is Richerson’s art teacher at Lamar Consolidated. Terry High School artists earned nine medals at the VASE competition. Foster High students earned four medals and George Ranch High students earned two medals at the same event.

George Junior High School principal Kelly Waters, George JH counselor Jennifer Medina Sullivan and Lamar CISD Career and Technology director Tracie Holub.

LCHS artist to be part of show at Contemporary Art Museum A sculpture by Lamar Consolidated High School’s Loretta White will be on exhibit at the Contemporary Art Museum of Houston, as part of the Teen Council’s Prospectus #174, which opens in April. Peggy Artripe is White’s art teacher at Lamar Consolidated. Lamar CHS student Loretta White and LCHS principal Michael Milstead.

VASE is the equivalent of UIL for the visual arts. It is the only type of art event of its kind in the nation. Students are interviewed with their artwork by a certified, trained juror to determine the degree each artwork demonstrates originality of concept, technical expertise, understanding of the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills and the interpretation of the student’s stated intent. Lamar Consolidated High School artist Stephanie Richerson and LCHS art teacher Peggy Artripe.

Lamar CISD website named “Best” at Texas School Public Relations Association Conference

Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

The website, designed and maintained by LCISD’s Webmaster Chris Davis, competed against other school districts in Texas with more than 10,000 students, but less than 30,000. Davis, the District’s first webmaster, has been in the position for three years.

LCISD’s Willman recognized by state organization for Professional Achievement Lamar CISD Executive Director for Community Relations Christy Willman was honoured by her colleagues with the Professional Achievement Award at the Texas School Public Relations Association’s (TSPRA) annual conference, held February 23-25 in Arlington. Willman, who served as the Association’s President in 2007-2008, was nominated by her peers for the award. TSPRA rules call for the Award to go to someone who has worked in school public relations “for at least 10 years and during that time exhibited a creative, dedicated and professional approach to school communications.” Lamar CISD Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction Bonnie Walker, Lamar CISD Superintendent Dr. Thomas Randle, Lamar CISD Executive Director of Community Relations and Lynda Queen, who presented the Professional Achievement Award to Willman at the 2011 Texas School Public Relations Association Conference.

Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

books Kelly Gottuso Mortimer Perils of Publishing: “Temecula Trophy Comes in Dead Last” This being my first column, I’ll introduce myself. I’m Kelly, the Xtreme Literary Agent, the ‘Lucy Ricardo of the 21st Century.’ [Yeah, I know. Big shoes to fill. I wear an 8-1/2, so I think I’m good.] On to the nasty [the good nasty] stuff. I had a super-fun time while on an errand for Mortimer Literary Agency. Just had to order a sign and two plaques. Totally routine. No problemo. I became fab at fifty on January 10th, and planned a birthday bash at the office I share with my hubby [he’s such a sweet man], the consumer advocate attorney. While he has a kickin’ sign denoting his status, I, alas, had none. It was Wednesday afternoon, with my party slated for Sunday. Could I get a sign made in time? I’m always game for a challenge, so I hauled to Blue Thunder

[my mini-van] and jammed to Temecula Trophy. I whooshed through the door. Noting the dude at the counter was helping someone, I changed course mid-stride, aiming for the wall displaying the sample plaques. I needed to choose one for Mort Lit’s Writer of the Year award. Most were boring rectangles … wait … there! I saw one that kind of looked like a shield. Yo! Whassup with that? My company’s name was on the plaque! Then I remembered. Years back, they’d screwed up the first one I ordered. Now they’d Velcroed that puppy to the wall. Problem was, instead of engraving “Mortimer Lit-er-ary Agency,” they put “Mortimer Lit-er-acy Agency.” At least they were consistent. Beneath my client’s name: “For Her Outstanding Achievements in the Literacy Field.” [Great, so my Writer of the Year could apparently read as well as write.] While I was remarking to the other customers [--over my shoulder; I couldn’t tear my gaze from the offending ‘Idiocy’ plaque] on how tacky it looked, [and secretly bemoaning that anyone reading

said plaque would think I was running a school for ESL students], I got shocked into reality by a man who came up alongside and threaded his arm through mine. He then placed his other hand over his arm, “locking me up.” [Beastly!] He said, “What’s the problem?” as he pulled me closer. Which one? That my defective plaque is on the wall, that a strange man has hold of me and is literally in my face, or that said man has waaay bloodshot eyes, a sloppy smile, and his pores reek of alcohol? [I decided to start with the plaque.] “You put that incorrect, nasty [the bad nasty] plaque on the wall. I don’t have a Lit-er-acy Agency, I have a Lit-er-ary Agency.” His reply? “Yeah, but we spelled ‘Literacy’ right….” He moved his hands to clutch mine. [Beastly!] My hands were shaking. I wasn’t afraid; I was unnerved. “Don’t be scared of me,” he said. “I’m not gonna hurt you.” [As if! He was barely taller than I, probably weighed as much, and 50 must’ve flashed in his rearview mirror miles back.]

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books A little girl had art supplies spread on the carpet. His kid, so givin’ this guy a swift sidekick was out. I just pulled away and attempted to get down to business. It took an hour to place the order. During which, he made derogatory comments about his three ex-wives, uttered the word s#@t, dropped the F- bomb, and threw in a few JC’s for good measure. [I told him to stop praying and focus on the order.] He also entertained me by yakking with the other customers about a Depends commercial that touted blue for men, and pink for women. [I won’t go into his demonstration.] I stood there smiling as he laughed at his own jokes so loud, I berated myself for not bringing a pair of ear protectors from my firing range. The capper was when I asked him if I could get the sign by Friday, as I desperately needed it for my party. He gave me the you-want-it-when? look, then said, “What time am I pickin’ you up tonight, sweetheart?” [As if! I was a sport, and told him I’d have to check with my husband.] I rushed out the door and managed to go to Costco and Trader Joes in 20 minutes [Warning! Do not attempt this at home. You could cause serious injury to yourself! I’m a semiprofessional stunt driver….], making me only five minutes late to pick up my hubby. [He’s such a sweet man.] Close the books on Wednesday.

I wasn’t amused, and he slunk away, reminding me of Gollum from Lord of the Rings. I paced: toward the Idiocy plaque, and away. Toward, and away, each time inching closer. When we were nose-to-wood, I went for it. [The screeching sound of separating Velcro was quite satisfying.] I stuffed the plaque in my handbag. I couldn’t wait for that guy to come back, so I could tell him that was the only plaque I’d ever be leaving his shop with! That sweet child looked at me, then skedaddled to the office. “Daddy, that lady just took a plaque off the wall and put it in her purse.” [Honesty. God love her.] He emerged and hoofed it to the wall. “That’s all right, but which plaque, and why?” “My plaque,” I said. “The plaque you messed up, then put out here. I was going to tell you when you showed yourself, that I’m taking it with me.” He looked like he couldn’t fathom why I didn’t want the Idiocy plaque on the wall. [I couldn’t fathom why he wanted to use a plaque he screwed up as a representation of his work.] “But, it was just there as a sample,” he said. “Yes, I know. And you spelled ‘Literacy’ right.” I was seriously hoping he’d take a shot at retrieving said Idiocy plaque, so I could show him what happens when you get a

Thursday, they were supposed to e-mail me a proof. [Never did]. Friday morning, they were supposed to call me. [They didn’t.]

First Mount Carmel Baptist Church

At 2:30, I picked up the phone. “Hi. I’m calling about the sign I’m supposed to pick up today. Is it ready?” He hesitated, as if surprised to hear from me. “Oh, you mean the plaques?” “No, the sign I ordered that you said you’d have done by Friday.” “Hang on a minute.” He put me on hold. The next thing I hear is, “Three-thirty. We’ll have it ready for you by 3:30.” Great. That meant I had to go halfway home [a 45-minute drive] to pick up The Genius Child [my 12-year-old], then come back for the sign. He said they were only open until 5:30, but he promised he wouldn’t leave until I arrived. I retrieved my hubby [he’s such a sweet man], we picked up the kidlet, then I dropped them off at the library. I made it to Temecula Trophy by 5:00. [I told you: semi-pro….] I bounced in, said hi to his daughter, stooped to pet her puppy, then proceeded to the counter. The guy finally popped out and saw me, then dashed away. Ten minutes go by, and I heard him and the engraver joking, “It’s ‘Lit-er-acy Agency,’ right?” “Right!” [Ha. Ha.] He appeared and attempted a sheepish look [failed] and with a laugh said he came out to stall, as they hadn’t finished my sign. [Finished it? They hadn’t even started it!] I made it clear

303 North 10th Street / Post Office Box 933, Richmond, Texas ▪ 77469 ▪ (281) 804-7186

As we seek to move closer to God and fulfill His purpose for our lives, we must make room for spending time in His Word each day. It is our intent to help all of God’s children begin a daily walk with Him.

Rev. Curtis Ray Lucas, Senior Pastor

Sunday Christian Education:

Morning Worship:

Wednesday Bible Study

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Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

books Kelly Gottuso Mortimer full-blooded Italian with bipolar disorder mad at ya. [Warning! Do not attempt this at home. You could cause serious injury to yourself!] No such luck. He turned and while striding back to the great beyond, said, “Okay. We’ll just give you your sign, and you can leave,” implying they wouldn’t make the plaques I ordered. [I was devastated!][Snort.]

my handbag [containing the unwanted Idiocy plaque with the incorrect business name.][Sigh.] I jumped into Blue Thunder, muttering that I couldn’t do any errands. I had just enough time to get back to the library.

After waiting a total of thirty minutes, the engraver came out with the sign. “Is this all right?”

We arrived home, and that Einstein knock-off had left a message on our machine, that I’d better make arrangements to come and pay for my sign—and return his plaque—or he was going to call the police! [Fine. A stint downtown was lookin’ darn pressure-free to me at this point.]

“It’s fine but you guys made me late again, so I need to pay and go.” I thrust my unsheathed debit card at him, but he didn’t take it. He vanished.

He added, “I know you took the plaque. We have witnesses. My daughter saw you put it in your purse,” like we hadn’t discussed the matter! Like I snuck out with it. [As if!]

I tapped on the glass counter with the plastic. Vigorously. Four more minutes passed. I called out, “Hello! I need to pay for my flippin’ sign!” A 3rd guy was passing from the engraving room to the office. I held out my card. “Would you please take my money so I can leave?” He stopped and looked at me … then just kept on truckin’. [Beastly!]

We headed him off at the pass. [BTW, never use that phrase; it’s a cliché.] We called the police and spoke to a nice officer who advised me to return the Idiocy plaque, and if the guy put it back on the wall, to sue him in civil court.

I wasn’t going to spend another minute in that shop with The Three Stooges. That was all she wrote. [BTW, never use that phrase—it’s a cliché.] I said to the air, “Fine. If you’re just going to ignore me, I’m going to leave.” Then I gave ‘em a 10-count. “I’m outta here.” I took a last look at the sign I desperately wanted [the one with the correct business name], then patted

I told the officer there was more chance of me dying and raising myself from the dead [I do not have a God complex!], than there was of me going there and returning the thing. But being my wicked [the good wicked, and the bad wicked] self, I had a better idea. “You know, officer, I think I will send the plaque back—along with a copy of this wonderful magazine I’m writing a column for….”

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Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

Legacy Ford: Moving Forward…Becoming Stronger

hen Ron Ewer purchased Dub Miller Ford, he knew there was a lot of history at the dealership. My wife, Juliana, thought it would be fitting to call their new store LEGACY because of the history and their first house in Dallas was just off Legacy Drive. He knew what it is like to run the largest store in the nation, but he also knew what he’d give up to do it. Mr. Ewer’s goal was to take Legacy to new levels in customer service as well as employee satisfaction. They have achieved both of these but he believes they can always get better. He tries to meet clients on the showroom floor just to say “Hi,” and make sure his team is living up to the client’s expectations. He, Juliana, and their sons, moved to this area to be a part of the Fort Bend County community and they are constantly busy trying to help where and when they can. In the past 2 years, Legacy Ford has received many awards and accolades, but Mr. Ewer believes the nicest thing he’s heard is the statement, “Your dealership has done so much for the community, we thank you for all your support.” This is not just his doing, but, instead, it is his entire staff participating

with an open heart and constantly seeking out other ways to help. Married to Juliana, a True Texan for the past 16 years, he has two sons, Brandon 14, and Cameron, 12. “As a family we are very involved in swimming and baseball,” he says. “I’m an avid hunter and travel all over North America to hunt big game and any kind of bird hunting available.” Mr. Ewer grew up in Minneapolis and attended engineering trade school from 1980-1981. He knows the value of hard work, determination, and a good work ethic, having began in the automotive industry in 1991 as a car washer and a pre-delivery manager. In 1994, he became an inventory manager for 5 stores. In 1997, he moved to Houston to open and own a Ford dealership that became the largest in the world. Then, in 2005, he opened Legacy Ford in Rosenberg. A Look at Legacy Ford and Upper Management: Highlights of Legacy Ford: 2005 to Present • Increased new sales 140% YOY • Decreased loss 122% YOY

Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

“A Celebration of Family Values and Community Spirit!” • Increased Service Absorption 92% YOY • Increased Body Shop Profit 82% YOY • Customer Service Top Ten in Ford • Blue Oval Certified • Ford Motor Company’s PRESIDENT’S AWARD for 2008, 2009 & 2010 • First Motor Trend Certified Dealership in the State of Texas • 2009-2010 Chairman of the Houston Area FDAF Board and still serving on the Board • Awarded the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance’s Business Partner of the Year in 2009. Community Involvement: • Community Partners with Fort Bend County Seniors, Texana Center, CenterPoint Energy, The Child Advocates of Fort Bend County, The Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Department and numerous other businesses in Richmond-Rosenberg and surrounding areas. • Member of the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance. • Awarded the Business Person of the Year in 2009 by the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance. • Member of the West Fort Bend Management District. • Sponsor baseball fields and other youth leagues in our community and surrounding areas.

• In partnership with Lamar Consolidated School District and the Needville Independent School District for the construction of Marquees for their schools. Patrick Sexton, GM/Partner Patrick Sexton, GM/Partner of Legacy Ford for the past 3 years, has been in the automotive Industry for 19 years. He is actively involved in the community and a triathlete. His ability to set and obtain many ©2011 Larry Pullen Photography of his triathlete goals and accomplishments cross over to the sales aspect of the business. He strives for excellence and is committed to offering the best customer service possible. Since opening their doors, Legacy Ford has received many honors and awards. Mr. Sexton has played a vital role in ensuring that the dealership receives recognition for providing exceptional customer service and satisfaction. When not at work or training for Ironman Triathlons he spends time with his Wife Emma and 3 kids Ean 11, Ethan 10, Mia 9.

Brad Johnson, Sales Manager Steven “Brad” Johnson grew up in the Odessa/Midland area and attended Texas Tech University in Lubbock. “I have two beautiful daughters,” he says proudly. “Brittannia is 26 and attends Royal Veterinary College at the University of London. She will graduate in June. My daughter, Constance, lives in Spring, Texas and has three beautiful daughters of her own.” Since 2005, he has been the General Sales Manager at Legacy Ford. Highlights of Legacy Ford: 2005 to Present • Increased new sales 140% YOY • Ford Motor Company’s PRESIDENT’S AWARD for 2008, 2009 & 2010 • First Motor Trend Certified Dealership in the State of Texas Community Involvement: • Community Partners with Fort Bend County Seniors, Texana Center, CenterPoint Energy, The Child Advocates of Fort Bend County, The Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Department and numerous other businesses in Richmond-Rosenberg and surrounding areas. Goals at Legacy Ford: To continue to grow dealership and become top 10 in our region. What is the nicest thing you hear about Legacy Ford? Legacy Ford has done so much for the community, we thank you for all your support Michelle C. Whitley, Controller Michelle C. Whitley has been the Controller since 2006 at Legacy Ford and resides in Houston. She’d been married for 18 years and has one child, who is a sophomore in high school. She has received the Ford Business Management Accounting Award of Excellence every year she has

been with the company. Michelle was also awarded Legacy’s Employee of the Year award for 2010. Highlights of Legacy Ford: 2006 to Present • Awarded the Ford Business Management Accounting Award of Excellence 2006-2010 • Awarded Employee of the Year for 2010 • President’s Award for 2008, 2009 & 2010 Community Involvement: • Attend functions with Fort Bend County Seniors, Texana Center, CenterPoint Energy, The Child Advocates of Fort Bend County, The Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Department and numerous other businesses in Richmond-Rosenberg and surrounding areas. Goals at Legacy Ford: To achieve the highest level of customer service possible. What is the nicest thing you hear about Legacy Ford? The level of customer service received here at Legacy Ford always exceeds our customer’s expectations. It is a great place to due business do to the positive environment our employees strive to achieve. Gerald Powell, Parts Manager Gerald Powell, parts manager, has 20 years experience and has worked for Legacy Ford for 4 years. He brings with him 12 years of management experience to the parts department. Born in Cherry Point, NC, Gerald is married to his wife, Cathy, and has two daughters, Alicia and Dawn. A 6-year US Army Desert Storm Veteran, Mr. Powell enjoys his off time breaking young colts and is active in the community by attending functions with the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance, Texana Center, and various grass roots events at local businesses. “ My family and I enjoy being active in various roles in the community such as the Waller County Fair, 4-H Leadership roles and Relay for life. As a family, we also enjoy vacationing and going to movies.” His parts department staff is ready to help customers with their automobile needs.

Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

Highlights of Legacy Ford: 2008 to Present • Increased wholesale sales by 212% • Achieved Master Certification as Parts Manager from Ford Motor Company while working on my Service Certifications. • Blue Oval Certified • Ford Motor Company’s PRESIDENT’S AWARD for 2008, 2009 & 2010 Goals at Legacy Ford: To build the parts, service and body shop departments to become the first place people think about when they need to fix their vehicle. To grow as the surrounding grows taking care of the community’s needs. What is the nicest thing you hear about Legacy Ford Parts? Customers are happy to see the parts employees because they are locals and well known. Luis Hidalgo, Service Manager Luis Hidalgo is the Service Manager at Legacy Ford. Born in Santiago, Chile, he and his wife, Jennifer, have two child, a son, Cameron, and a daughter, Jessica. Mr. Hidalgo grew up in Houston, Texas and attended the automotive program at Houston Community College, acquiring an Automotive Repair Certificate. Luis has always had a passion for cars that many people get when they start driving. “I have yet to let go of that passion and enjoy my time off drag racing. My family enjoys racing as well and support my passion. As a family, we enjoy vacationing and going to the movies.” He first started at Legacy Ford as an Assistant Service Manager in 2007. Since then, he has become the Service Manager and has achieved his master certification for Service Manager by Ford Motor Company. For the past three years he has managed to achieve the Presidents Award with his service team. Highlights of Legacy Ford: 2006 to Present • Increased Gross $80,000.00 my first year as manager

• Decreased loss 122% YOY • Increased Service Absorption 92% YOY • Blue Oval Certified • Ford Motor Company’s PRESIDENT’S AWARD for 2008, 2009 & 2010 • Achieved Master Certification as Service Manager from Ford Motor Company. Community Involvement: • Attend functions with Fort Bend County Seniors, Texana Center, CenterPoint Energy, The Child Advocates of Fort Bend County, The Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Department and numerous other businesses in Richmond-Rosenberg and surrounding areas. Goals at Legacy Ford: To provide our clients with the best customer service possible. Provide services for the Medium Duty and Heavy Duty clients with abilities for large tire service and alignment. What is the nicest thing you hear about Legacy Ford? Recently, more and more I hear great comments about how well our clients are treated and that they are so pleased at the experiences they have had. Presidents awards is the end result. Eric Munson, Body Shop Manager Eric Munson was born in New York and resided there until 1983 when his family moved to Houston. Mr. Munson and his wife, Robin, are enjoying a 15-year marriage. “We enjoying traveling and adventure when time permits. We deeply care and respect animals and are currently members of the Texas Wildlife Rehab, where we enjoy learning and observing our Texas wildlife. Since 2009, he has been the Body Shop Director at Legacy Ford and have partnered with organizations such as Memorial Hermann Hospital, Texana Center, the Fort Bend County Fair, State Farm Agency, Texas Farm Bureau, Farmers Insurance Agency, USAA Insurance Agency, Nationwide Insurance Agency and Centerpoint Energy to provide results Continued on page 49.

Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

We A l l W a n t To B e E f f e c t i ve , B u t H o w ? by Diane Elko We always talk about how we would like to improve our effectiveness at work, at home and in our personal and social networks. Sometimes we bite off more than we can chew. There are plenty of models out here to help us achieve improvement including those related to getting us more organized in our home. If not followed, we fear that we may end up on that television show with other hoarders. Many of us need to lose weight or get in better physical shape so we join clubs, take pills or start walking. We measure effectiveness by the results achieved—both qualitative and quantitative. Do You Feel Good About Your Work Life? Are you Effective? The general plans and models for organizing our lives and maintaining a healthy lifestyle should also be accepted as generic guidelines for a healthy work life. The most important thing is to start doing something. Peter Drucker in The Effective Executive (1966) said, “Only executive effectiveness can enable this society to harmonize its two needs: the needs of organizations to obtain from the individual the contribution it needs, and the need of the individual to have the organization serve as a

tool for the accomplishment of his purposes.” Drucker’s final word was, Effectiveness must be learned. This learning must happen on both ends: You must improve and your boss must change to reach the optimum level of effectiveness. Improving our effectiveness does not just happen by taking a magical pill or waking up one morning and reaching mastery of effectiveness. It is learned— just like we learn to master a series of topics and skills that support a college degree. Much study and much planning result in our achieving the grades to pass the coursework and move to the next level of performance--practicing what we learned. But, the key to effectiveness is to never stop learning, and always keep changing. This gets more difficult as we get older, so we must work hard by planning and monitoring results. What is your personal development plan for continuous learning toward mastering personal and professional effectiveness? You must first master the essential personal skills of your own role. As a manager, you can then improve on your interpersonal relationships and lead your team to a higher level of performance. Here are 10 tips to help make it happen:

Diane M. Elko, President of Improve It! Consulting & Training in Fulshear, Texas, assists organizations with team building, process improvement, quality, and creative strategies. She is a licensed representative for Insights Personality Profiles and designs effective management systems that improve productivity and performance. Diane may be reached at 281.799.0930, dmelko@txun.net, or visit www.improveitsolutions.com.

1. Feed your opportunities and starve your problems. 2. Focus on priorities rather than attempting to do a little bit of everything. 3. Continually work on making your strengths more productive. 4. Seek excellence instead of perfection. 5. Become more proactive and less reactive. Explore the new and different. 6. Be sure you are doing the right job right instead of just doing the job right. 7. Routinely ask yourself, “What is the best use of my time right now?” 8. Seek feedback from others. 9. Based on the feedback and your assessment of your own effectiveness, seek change. Innovate. 10. Start Over, develop new actions and monitor these to support your goals.

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Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

Diamonds & Wedding Rings l Gold & Sterling Silver Jewelry Custom Designs l Jewelry Repair on Premises Appraisals l Watch Repair l Class Rings 206 E Highway 90A Richmond, Texas 77406 Tel l 281.344.9900 Business Hours Monday – Friday: 10am – 6pm Saturday: 10am – 4pm www.goldconnection.net Custom Designs Are Our Specialty!

Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

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Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

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Caballero-Ryder Funeral Home

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(281) 238-4500

Caballero-Ryder Funeral Home is dedicated to providing services to the families of Fort Bend County and surrounding counties with care and compassion. We serve every family in our community with great pride. We are able to offer a wide range of services to meet your families needs and customs. We will listen to you and your wishes to help plan a celebration consistent with your expectations. We will take the time to plan every detail and help to relieve the burden on your family during your time of loss.

Newly Remodeled Exclusive Reception Area In House Florist Open 24 Hours if Requested We Honor Pre-Arrangements from Other Funeral Homes

www.caballero-ryderfuneralhome.com Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

Be sure to visit the Fort Bend County Fair Wine Committee venue this year!

The Grapes On The Brazos Event at the Fort Bend County Fair showcased 20 fine wines in 2010. The wines were carefully selected by the entire 58 member strong wine committee. Over 80 wines were presented and the following were chosen as the best 2010 wines: Best 2010 Value Wines:

Best 2010 Premium Wines:

Alamos Chardonnay McManis Viognier Fall Creek Granite Blush Fall Creek White Riesling Messina Hof Gewurztraminer Fall Creek Ed’s Smooth Red Fleur De Lyeth Fall Creek Merlot Le Lapin Petite Syrah J. Lohr Cabernet Seven Oaks

Colterenzio Pinot Grigio Luigi Bosca Malbec Calistoga Cabernet Predator Old Vine Zinfadel DeLoach Pinot Noir Sonoma

Best 2010 Super Premium Wines: Frank Family Chardonnay 2008 Frank Family Cabernet 2007 Kathryn Kennedy Lateral 2007 Buil & Giné Toro Buil Tempranillo 2005

2011 Fort Bend County Fair September 23 through October 2 Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

Caballero-Ryder Funeral Home Phyllis Caballero was born and raised in Richmond, Texas, the only girl in a family of four. “My parents have been very supportive and wonderful. We are a very close-knit family. I had a wonderful childhood with great memories. I thank my parents for raising me to be very responsible, disciplined and persistent,” she says now.

to be a great year for us. I looked back at my business plan, on my projections for my first year, and I have exceeded my projections!” Since opening their doors in January 2010, Caballero-Ryder Funeral Home has served many families. The response from those they have served has been very promising. “Some of the comments that we have received has been along the lines of: ‘It does not look like a funeral home, it is very nice’; ‘The people here are so compassionate and caring’; ‘You all are very professional’. We have been very pleased with the comments that we have been receiving from our families.”

Married for five years with a 2 year old child, she says she’s grateful to her family and her husband, David, for being so understanding. “This job takes many hours away from my family, but I enjoy my profession. I have been in the funeral industry for about 17 years. I started with a local funeral home as a secretary in 1994.” Working and helping to comfort families during the loss of a loved one takes a kind and steady hand. As secretary, she was normally the first person a grief-stricken relative came in to contact with. It was a job Ms. Caballero didn’t take lightly. “I began to see everything that a funeral director does from beginning to end. It really fascinated me. After years of working at the funeral home, I thought to myself I should go to Mortuary College because I knew this was my calling. I went to Mortuary College and graduated in 2004 with a Degree in Mortuary Science. I am a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer. I continued to work at local funeral home while attending college and after I graduated.” The funeral home where Ms. Caballero was employed closed their doors in 2009. When that happened, she had an opportunity to purchase the building and establish a family owned funeral home. It was not as easy as I thought, but I never gave up because I wanted to fulfill my dream. Bare in mind, during this bad economy, it was very difficult to prove to financial institutions that I could be very successful.” She had to create a business plan with projections on how she thought the funeral home might do and where the

business might be in the next four years. That involved long nights till early morning hours to meet deadlines and Ms. Caballero’s mother-in-law, Maggie Ryder, who is also one of the owners, worked alongside with her in creating this business plan. Once completed, they tried various financial institutions and were turned down many times. But, they never gave up. It was then when the SBA office directed Ms. Caballero to one last institution. “Banco Herencia believed in us,” she confides. “The bank was very interested in what we had to offer and treated us with much respect and listened to us. After numerous interviews with the President and Vice President of the Bank, I then received a call that they were willing to provide us with the financial resources. I knew all the hard work and late nights had paid off. We were finally approved! We then started to remodel the funeral home and made it look inviting. Our one-year anniversary is January 25, 2011. It has turned out

Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

Caballero-Ryder Funeral Home offer affordable prices in an elegant environment. The funeral home has a chapel that seats up to 200 people. In the chapel, there are two, large 50” flat screens that used to show DVD presentations. Their website (www.caballeroryderfuneralhome.com) is very simple and easy to access. “We post our obituaries and people can send their condolences on our website,” Ms. Caballero explains. “Our website offers different backgrounds to personalize the life lived. Our lobby is spacious and modern in style. We also have a reception room that we let our families utilize during visitation. We provide coffee and water and the families bring their own appetizers. The families seem to love the reception room, they do not have to leave the funeral home for any reason. We have an in-house florist. The families really like this idea. Families can special order their flowers or we always have arrangements made ready to go. We offer fresh and silk arrangements at affordable prices. Our floral designer, John Perez, has been in the floral industry for over 25 years.” The other two owners are Maggie Ryder and Raul Rubalcaba. Mrs. Ryder has been in funeral service for 5 years. She has worked at a local funeral home as a funeral home attendant during evening visitation hours. She is present

for meeting and achieving Legacy Ford’s community involvement goals. Highlights of Legacy Ford: 2009 to present • Introduced the body shop to many community events. • Partnered with new insurance relations to continue new growth. • Achieved top 10 with customer service satisfaction • Increased organization to maximize on completing repairs from start to finish. • Process of designing and constructing a new body shop to accommodate current growth.

Ford? There are several positive things I hear and know. The most common factor would be our customer service. It is always great to hear we do a wonderful job on communicating as well as accommodate our customer’s needs. I know, I have been a customer and understand why our customer perception is positive.

Goals at Legacy Ford: The goals I have set for 2011 is to embrace the community and increase our collision facility volume. The new facility we are building will support more employees and provide better service and turn around times on repairs. I also plan to maintain my existing relations with the community and prove to them that we are never standing still.

Jeremy Ruesink, Pre-owned Sales Manager Jeremy Ruesink is the Preowned Sales Manager at Legacy Ford. He has worked at Legacy Ford for five years. He is focused on maintaining a helpful and knowledgeable sales team to assist you with your pre-owned vehicle needs. Jeremy strives to run Legacy’s pre-owned department with honesty and integrity. Offering Legacy Ford customers a quality product at a competitive price.

What is the nicest thing you hear about Legacy

Before coming to Legacy Jeremy lived and worked

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in Alaska for 10 years as a professional hunting and fishing guide. He is still a licensed hunting and fishing guide in Alaska and spends his vacation time there. Jeremy is also involved in aviation. When he is not at work he is usually at one of the local airports working towards his commercial pilot’s license. On June 16, 1903, Henry Ford launched his company in a converted factory. Not only would it become one of the world’s largest and most profitable companies, it was also one of the company’s to survive the Great Depression. Ford Motor Company has always valued family and community service. It is still one of the world’s largest family-owned companies and has been in continuous family control for over 100 years. LEGACY FORD is the personification is all that Ford Motor Company represents—family focused, community oriented, and becoming stronger as it moves forward. For more information visit, www.legacyfordtx.com. Sales hours are Mon-Sat 9-9. Service hours are MonFr 7-7 and Sat 7-4. The dealership is located at 27225 Southwest Freeway, Rosenberg. 281-342-5611.

Caballero-Ryder (continued from page 48.)

at Caballero-Ryder Funeral Home to assist the families in whatever they may need during visitation. She has another full-time job and assists at the funeral home part-time in the evenings. Mr. Rubalcaba is a retired communications technician and assists with services when necessary. He helps direct funerals and comfort families during their time of sorrow. Angel Medina is a funeral director and embalmer whom is employed at Caballero-Ryder Funeral Home. He also assist our families during their times of sorrow. He has been in funeral service for over 18 years. Other staff members who assist are Bill Ryder, Linda Rubalcaba, and Delfina Loza. Caballero-Ryder Funeral Home is dedicated to providing services to families. “We serve every family with great pride and are able to offer a wide range of services to meet the needs and customs of the families. We would like to thank all of the families that have placed their trust in our funeral home and have made us what we are today. On behalf of Caballero-Ryder Funeral Home we would like to thank all of the people that were behind us and encouraged us to never give up, including Marco Ruiz at the Small Business Development Center in Rosenberg, Banco Herencia, David Corpus and Saman Noorani as well as our family and friends.”

fitness by cyndia rodriguez

[Zumba Instructor & Personal Trainer at the TW Davis YMCA] say single mom and be done, huh? :) Before

In Transition

What was your heaviest weight? How or why you think that happend? My heaviest weight was 342lbs. I have always been overweight, and yes I do mean always. Some predispotion and some from bad eating habits and low self esteem What kind of eater are you? What have you done to redirect it? I would classify myself as a mindless eater; as in not thinking about how or what you are eating, say as you watch TV or talk with family/friends at a restuarant and eat chips and salsa. To redirect myself I try to always have something to do, multitask if you will. How long has it taken you to be at you wieght today? I began my new life style change Feb 11, 2008, as I walked into my first ever Weight Watchers meeting. A typical day in Pam’s life would be...? Could just

Typical..ok...up around 5:30am, house and kids going by 6am, kids out the door by 6:50am, finish getting my self ready for work, grab a cup of coffee, yogurt and usually a banana and head out the door to work. After work - kids, exercise of some type, housework, homework, etc, kids in bed between 9-10pm. Mom/me time (i.e. take care of anything else needing to be done or perhaps get to read, play on the computer, or scrapbook) until fall asleep hopefully by midnight and start all over again. Who has inspired you to make those changes that keep you motivated in your weight loss? Honestly, in the begining no one inspired me to do this. It was just myself deciding to make a change...I was sub teaching at the time and the Weight Watchers was be offered to meet at the school, so convienence. But now the list of motivators is quiet long: my children being number 1, then parents, and friends. All of these are great motivators but I am not doing this for them...I am

Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

doing this for me and for the person I am. I have a goal and am determined to reach it for myself. What is your goal? I started thinking that if I could just loose 20lbs I would be happy then if I can loose 40lbs and maintain then I would be happy. I finally realized that setting a goal and getting to it was not the real issue, the real issue was me being happy. I can honestly say I have reached the goal that I was seraching for when I started this lifestyle change. I am happy...took me a long time to be able to say and to really believe. Now I can say I do not have a set ultimate weight goal. I go by what I look like and how I feel. I would like to be a size 12 and I will say I am a size 16/18 now...began at 26/28. Any words of wisdom on how to stay motivated? You have to decide first and foremost that what you are doing is not a “Diet” (Diets fail and once you stop “dieting”, the weight you may have lost WILL come back). You have to decide that what you are doing is changing your entire life.

Center for Women’s Health: Advanced and Personalized Care for Women On June 18, 2001, C. Funsho Fagbohun, MD, PhD, FACOG, FACS, established the Center for Women’s Health in Richmond, Texas. With Maria Rodriguez, his one devoted assistant by his side and plenty of faith he had no way of knowing just how large his practice would grow. Now, nearly ten years later, Dr. Fagbohun continues to provide women’s health services in the Richmond/Rosenberg area with two registered nurses, one aesthetician, several medical assistants and other well trained staff by his side. Today, the Center for Women’s Health stands alone as a comprehensive care facility for women that offers a myriad of services relating to obstetrics and gynecology. These services include but are not limited to the management of low risk and high risk pregnancies, infertility, menopausal and perimenopausal issues, endometriosis, and menstrual pain and irregularities. The facility is also able to provide minimally invasive surgery, laparoscopic hysterectomy for fibroids, as well as in office procedures such as the Essure tubal occlusion and endometrial ablation. Botox injections, laser hair removal and other cosmetic procedures are also available through The Essence of Beauty Medical Spa.

office located at the Fort Bend Doctors’ Pavilion on 1601 Liberty Street, Suite A, Richmond, TX 77469. For more information regarding these events as well as the many services provided, please contact 281-342-6962.

Come Celebrate the Center for Women’s Health 10 Year Anniversary! Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Open House Friday, June 3, 2011 — 4PM to 8PM “Aloha” Community Festival Saturday, June 4, 2011 — 10AM to 2PM For more information please call 281-342-6962.

Dr. Fagbohun believes that it is through daily prayer and devotion that the Center for Women’s Health continues to grow and develop. The continued success of the practice has also afforded him the opportunity to add two exceptional physicians, Dr. Kesha S. Robertson and Dr. Cynthia I. Rios to the practice in August 2009 and August 2010 respectively. With the expertise and dedication provided by both Dr. Robertson and Dr. Rios, the practice has expanded its service to the Houston area with the recent opening of a satellite clinic on Hillcroft Avenue. The practice hopes to establish a third location in the near future. In celebration of 10 years of service to the Fort Bend community, the Center for Women’s Health will be hosting a two day event in the Richmond/Rosenberg area. The festivities will begin with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, June 3, featuring several prominent personalities in the Fort Bend community with an open house to follow immediately. The celebration will culminate on Saturday, June 4, 2011 with an Aloha themed festival for the whole family to enjoy. These events will take place at the new Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

Obstetrics Gynecology Infertility

Shannon Crowe, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. Bryan Blonder, D.O., F.A.C.O.G. Kelli V. Burroughs, M.D.

281-242-1400

Town Center Medical Building 16545 Southwest Fwy, Ste 150, Sugarland, TX 77479 www.sweetwaterobgyn.com

texas in history by Anthony P. Megahey

RUSK

April 11, 1846, with only one family living at the site, the town of Rusk is established by an act of the Texas legislature and is named after Thomas Jefferson Rusk, a military leader of the Republic of Texas, and signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence.

the purchase of 19,000-acres, the state attempts to exploit the iron-ore resources of the region, giving prisoners something to do besides cross dates off their calendars and provide state buildings with railings, banisters and hardware.

March 8, 1847, a post office is authorized. 1850, the number of residents has grown to 355, swelled by immigrants from the Old South and Europe, including the British Isles, Germany and Norway, as well as a sizeable African-American population. As of the census of 2000, there are 5,085 people, 1,306 households and 867 families residing in the city.

Rusk, located in Cherokee County about 90 miles (140 km) north of Huntsville, is home to the Texas State Railroad, a 546ft footbridge—reputedly the nation’s longest—and many historical sites. Rusk is also known as the birthplace of two Texas governors, James Stephen Hogg, the 20th governor, and Thomas Mitchell Campbell, the 24th governor.

July 29, 1857, despondent over the death of his wife and ill from a tumor at the base of his neck, Thomas Jefferson Rusk commits suicide, he was 53. 1877, the town’s economy is further spurred by the construction of the Rusk Penitentiary— the second such institution to be built in Texas. With

Anthony Megahey is a native of Northern Ireland, but has resided in the US since 1994. Currently, he works as an electrician in Houston, and is a former U.S. Navy Reservist SeaBee. He is the father of one daughter.

Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance Staff (281) 342-5464 — www.CFBCA.org 4120 Ave. H (Hwy. 90) — Rosenberg, TX

Gail Parker

Mia Monroe

Jeremy Heath

Alica Davis

Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

Yazmin Garcia

Brian Lee

Spring 2011 • www.RoseRich.org • To advertise, call (281) 769-8321 •

ocation L e c i f f Two O

Fort Bend Doctors’ Pavilion 1601 Liberty Street, Suite A Richmond, Texas 77469 6420 Hillcroft, Suite 402 Houston, Texas 77081

Obstetrics, Gynecology & Minimally Invasive Surgery

COMPREHENSIVE CARE:

281-342-6962 Mon thru Thurs: 9am to 5pm l Fri: 9am to 1pm

Management of Low Risk and High Risk Pregnancy Well Woman Examination / Pap Smears Infertility Evaluation / Ovulation Induction Menopausal and Perimenopausal Issues Urinary Incontinence Menstrual Reduction Endometriosis Therapy Lost Pelvic Support Minimally Invasive Surgery Laparoscopic Hysterectomy In-Office Endometrial Ablation In-Office Sonography In-Office Hysteroscopy In-Office Tubal Occlusion (Essure) Botox Juvaderm Laser Hair Removal

MEET OUR PHYSICIANS:

Be sure to ask us about our Aesthetic and Weight Loss Services!

C. Funsho Fagbohun, MD, PhD, FACOG, FACS Board Certified, Voted one of America’s Top Obstetricians & Gynecologists by the Consumers’ Research Council of America

Kesha S. Robertson, MD, FACOG Board Certified

Cynthia I. Rios, MD

Active Candidate for Board Certification

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