December 2018
Magazine
Practice makes PERFECT!
F CUS
Practice
Makes W by Amy Sharp
hen Dr. Lance Campbell, Pharm.D., R.Ph opened Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy back in 2003, he built a business plan based on pharmacies of old. “I worked in a retail pharmacy environment before I opened Campbell’s,” says Dr. Campbell. “No one knew the customers’ names or anything about their life and family. To me, that model was seriously flawed. That’s why at Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy we proudly provide outstanding customer service with a family feel.” And practice makes perfect. Dr. Campbell has built a very successful business over the past 15 years, and it isn’t the only thing he’s built. He and his wife Rakel are proud parents to Cole, Chloe, Caitlyn and Claire. Just like in the pharmacy world, Dr. Campbell was starting to feel that morals and values had gone by the wayside. So he took action with his little slice of the newest generation. Dr. Campbell started telling his kids off-the-cuff stories of kindness, values and chivalry. Stories Cole, Chloe, Caitlyn and Claire remembered and repeated again and again and again. “The light came on when Rakel and I were in ministry school,” says Dr. Campbell. “Our pastor asked what we loved. My answer was kids and children’s books. Rakel then took it a step further: Maybe we could build on the off-the-cuff bedtime stories and create better children’s books that make an impact...books that make values and morals fashionable again. It didn’t take long, and Rakel and I had written the first book: Molly No Manners. It rhymes, it’s clever and the kids love it!” From there, the idea took flight. Dr. Campbell and Rakel found an illustrator, and Molly No Manners is available on Amazon starting the first of week of December. It’s the first of many books in The Campbell Family label. “Rakel is Icelandic,” says Dr. Campbell. “So our kids are Vikings with dual citizenship, and they travel all over with us experiencing different cultures. The United States is a truly amazing place, but there are a lot of really great places out there...and no matter where you are, kindness and values are a universal language. We are drawing on that international concept in the books.” And it’s working. The Campbell Family books are gaining traction in both the United States and Rakel’s home of Iceland, where children practice English through books and television. Molly No Manners tells the story of the consequences of bad manners. In the end,
PERFECT! Molly learns that like most of life...when it comes to manners practice makes perfect. This book is a wonderful holiday gift for the children in your life. It’s a good oldfashioned book, it’s manners, it’s values and you’re supporting a local author. Purchase on Amazon today! For more information about The Campbell Family books, visit www.campbellfamilybooks.com.
Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy “If our staff can’t make it… then you probably don’t need it!” Sugar Land • 281-980-2555 4760 Sweetwater Blvd. Suite 103 Houston • 713-668-4833 6603 Kirby Dr., Houston, TX 77005 www.campbellscompounding.com
EDUCATION
Get a
Head Start From left to right: Gigi De Vega, Charles De Vega, Betsy De Vega and Alex De Vega
on the Second Semester!
N
o matter how the first semester is winding down, now is the time to formulate a plan for your child’s success in the spring. Betsy de Vega at KnILE Center—the premier educational resource center in our community—is dedicated to equipping area families with the best tools and strategies for excelling in both school and life. One way to get a head start is to enroll in Knile Center’s EduCoachNow (ECN) program before (and even during!) the holiday break. Betsy says, “ECN is our educational coaching program for students K–12th. It is one-on-one and customized. We incorporate skills like effective reading and comprehension, increased cognitive skills, organization, critical thinking, strategic study and testing skills, problem solving and goal setting techniques. And since continuity is key, your ECN program also offers personal meetings with your child’s teacher and school, if needed. We’ll kick off the second semester together ahead of the game.” The educators at KnILE also realize that academics are just one part of the equation. That’s why licensed therapist Victoria Guzman—the
by Amy Sharp
new director of ECN—is thrilled to add a life coaching option for kids and teens. Victoria says, “Our life coaching program can include wellness, health, mental illness, social drama, social media trouble, peer pressure, teen issues, anger, depression, anxiety, etc. Schedule a free consultation and I will match your child with an appropriate coach/mentor. Our aim is to help kids and teens overcome life struggles and become more resilient by providing a positive role model to help!” If a complete educational overhaul is in order this spring, KnILE Prep is a “boutique style” 3rd–12th grade self-paced, private school with full-time, part-time and homeschool options available. Betsy says, “Sometimes traditional education just doesn’t fit. Like all of our programs, our school looks at the whole child. We embrace uniqueness and work on building self esteem and self-worth...and our students hail from both sides of the bell curve. Our fully customizable curriculum allows us to serve as a resource alternative school, and we also meet the needs of those not finding themselves challenged in typical classrooms. We follow the child, the child does not follow us. Our
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primary curriculum is online, but this is a blended environment. We offer a multitude of hands-on opportunities, including PE, nutrition, theater, Spanish, art, science lab, speech, field trips and community service.” Be sure to check www.KnileCenter.com for a schedule of upcoming free seminars on different topics affecting parents and kids today. “We understand,” says Betsy. “Raising kids in our current day and age is challenging. Let us help find the absolute best resources for you and your child. For questions about any of our programs, please do not hesitate to call. We’re always here to help!”
Call to set up a consult TODAY to learn more about our services. Betsy de Vega 281-761-6610 KnILE Center, LLC EduCoachNow KnILE Prep Academy (Main Campus - Inside the Kid’s Resort) 5419 Fm 762 Rd Richmond, TX 77469 www.KnileCenter.com UPCLOSE ~ December 2018 ~ 3
The
Right Help
at the
Right
Time by Sara Adams
S
ix years ago, Keith Suchsland became the pastor of Ministry in Motion. He works closely with his wife, Jacalyn, who is an Elder in the church and one of the Ministry Directors. When you meet them you get a real sense of how much they care for those in their congregation as well as the community at large. In July of 2017, Keith and Jackie had just arrived at their home in Pearland when their primary care physician called and told them to get back in their car and go see Dr. Ulises Baltazar immediately. Their doctor had called Dr. Baltazar to explain his concerns about Keith, and Dr. Baltazar agreed to see them after hours—that afternoon. Surprised by the urgency, Keith and Jackie jumped in their car and drove to Sugar Land to see a doctor they had never met, at the end of the day when most doctors have usually left their office. Not knowing what to expect, but impressed that Dr. Baltazar was willing to wait for them, the Suchslands were overwhelmed with the warmth and care they received from both Dr. Baltazar and his entire staff. They never felt rushed during the entire visit. Keith says, “Dr. Baltazar crafted a plan from the beginning. It was weird to watch him doodle a picture of my veins on paper, but it made it very easy to understand my condition. I was relieved when he didn’t recommend surgery right away. I had a transient blood clot that he could monitor.”
Dr. Ulises Baltazar is a highly regarded vein specialist. He has extensive experience working with conditions resulting from issues of the circulatory system and is a leader his field. Boardcertified by the American Board of Surgery in Vascular Surgery, Dr. Baltazar is a member of Houston Methodist Cardiovascular Surgery Associates’ Sugar Land Vein Clinic—a practice dedicated exclusively to the treatment of venous insufficiency. Keith followed Dr. Baltazar’s recommendations and kept monthly office visits to confirm that the clot was not moving. This past January, Keith had surgery to remove the blood clot. “Through it all, Jackie and I sensed Dr. Baltazar was really invested in my health. He was communicative and honest through every phase and stage of my treatment. He even prayed with me while I was in pre-op,” says Keith. “We have shared his name with several people. Dr. Baltazar created a progression of care for me; he saw that I got the right help at the right time.”
Ulises Baltazar MD, RVT, FACS now affiliated with the renowned Methodist Cardiovascular Surgery Associates 281-240-8400 16605 Southwest Freeway Ste 505 (in the Methodist Professional Building 3) 4 ~ UPCLOSE ~ December 2018
WE ARE NOW OFFERING TWO INCREDIBLE
OPPORTUNITIES TO HELP GROW YOUR BUSINESS! UpClose Sugar Land Magazine • UpClose Katy Magazine
Direct Mailed To On The Cover
150,000 HThe Most Affluent Homes
Dr. Lance Campbell and Molly No Manners Founder and Publisher Gina Pizzini
$.009 - Less Than A Penny Per Household
Editor Gina Pizzini gina@upclosemagazine.com Business Editor Amy Sharp Layout and Design Night Sky Creative Account Executives Sharon Ballint Dior Burns Writers Sara Adams Olivia Cane Marie Page Amy Sharp
The UpClose family of magazines are designed to give readers an“UpClose” look at the individuals who run and operate local retail and service outlets. We understand that people prefer to do business with people. UpClose Magazine gives the community a chance to meet people and their businesses
Photography J. Thomas “Jay” Ford
through
our
pages. We
provide a turnkey service that includes
Accounting Kaitlin Ballint
detailed
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article,
professional photography, graphics, UpClose Magazine is published monthly
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For information on having your business featured in UpClose, call
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and smile there is a story, and we would like to help tell yours! Call us at 281.235.0600, www.upclosemagazine.com.
and is part of their advertisement. UpClose Magazine is not responsible for content of these editorials or advertisements. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.
M
a
g
a
z
i
n
e
NOW is the Time
to Buy a New Car!
T
by Amy Sharp
hey say timing is everything. If you’ve been thinking about a new car but haven’t felt ready to take the plunge, don’t put it off any longer. Jeff Sebastian, owner at Classic Chevy Sugar Land, says, “Our 2019 models are arriving and the remaining 2018s must go. It’s our annual end of year clearance, and the deals won’t get better any time soon!” Know what makes this deal even sweeter? The tangible difference in the car buying experience you’ll enjoy at Classic Chevy Sugar Land. Jeff has been in this business for more than 20 years. He says, “We’re committed to keeping car buying the fun and friendly experience it was meant to be. All of us at Classic Chevy Sugar Land want to make the process easy and enjoyable, so you’ll walk out feeling good about us and about your car. That’s why our motto is ‘Relax and Enjoy the Difference.’” You’ll notice this difference the moment you walk in the door. This sales team is approachable—not aggressive—and they genuinely want to make you happy. Jeff says, “When you deal with one of our sales people, they’re empowered to handle your whole transaction. We streamline the process, so you don’t have to wait for a lot of second-guessing and extra approvals. The person who shakes your hand when
you walk in the door will handle the whole process until you drive back home.” Not only has Classic Chevy Sugar Land been recognized by its customers as a new kind of dealership (and service center), it’s also garnering national attention. For every year they’ve been in existence, this dealership has been awarded the General Motors Chevrolet “Dealer of the Year” award. It’s an honor only given to the top one percent of Chevrolet dealers in the nation for excellence in customer service, and it’s the highest honor GM bestows. Jeff says, “Winning this repeatedly means so much for our team because to win, a dealer must not only be a top performer in sales and customer satisfaction...but also show uncompromising dedication to their customers. The amazing people we’ve assembled at Classic Chevy Sugar Land earned this award...and I’d like to thank each and every one of them!” We’ve all dreamed of the car with the big red holiday bow wrapped around it. End of year closeouts combined with the honest experience at Classic Chevy Sugar Land can make that dream a reality for someone special in your life. The team at Classic Chevy Sugar Land wishes each of you a very happy holiday season and a peaceful New Year. Relax and enjoy!
281-491-9000 www.classicchevysugarland.com
SHOP FORT BEND
13115 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478
THE ONE TO SEE
Nearly
20OF Years PERSONALIZED
CARE
L
arry Pullen is a retired airline pilot. He’s also retired from his second career as a photographer. It was Larry’s photography business that introduced him to Dr. Tom Arnold at Today’s Vision Sugar Land nearly 20 years ago. “Way back then,” says Larry, “I photographed Dr. Arnold’s business. About the same time, the old age factor started creeping in. I had some work done on my eyes, including several surgeries for a detached retina. I needed glasses after the surgeries, and my doctors in the Medical Center recommended Dr. Arnold and Today’s Vision Sugar Land. I’ve gone to them for glasses ever since.” “I have the highest opinion of Dr. Arnold,” continues Larry. “He’s a good guy with a captivating personality and he’s a family man. He and his wife visit their daughter and her family in Europe multiple times a year, which I think is just wonderful. And he’s a real jock too. He’s into running and keeps himself in top health. Like me, he also loves photography. He has even joined me at my photography group meetings several times over the years.” Today, Larry sees a specialist for his eye
by Amy Sharp
Dr. Tom Arnold
care. But he continues to visit Today’s Vision Sugar Land for his glasses. “It’s a reliable product,” says Larry. “Top of the line. My glasses don’t always get tender treatment... they get dropped a lot. These glasses are solidly built and are quite comfortable. They take their time building my glasses, and all I have purchased over the years have been exactly right.” As Larry has experienced, Today’s Vision Sugar Land enjoys a solid reputation for quality eye care. Dr. Arnold is from Sugar Land, and he opened his practice at this same location back in 1992. At Today’s Vision
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Sugar Land, personalized patient care is of the utmost priority. “Personalized patient care...that just means being nice!” says Dr. Arnold. “I care about my patients and think about them often, many times sending emails and texts to follow up.” Spend a few minutes with Dr. Arnold, and you too will realize he’s “all in”... no matter what he takes on. He’s constantly learning and investing in the latest advancements and technology in eye care to better take care of his patients. Longtime patients like Larry love Dr. Arnold’s stories of adventure, including ski trips around the world, running marathons and surfing. And he’s an avid photographer, especially macro photography of the eye. One of Dr. Arnold’s photos was a Contact Lens Spectrum contest winner in 2017. “Without reservation,” says Larry, “I recommend Today’s Vision Sugar Land. Dr. Arnold is a genuine person, and I have a lot of respect for him. I trust him.” Today’s Vision Sugar Land 281-242-2020 15337 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.2020sugarland.com UPCLOSE ~ December 2018 ~ 7
PERSONAL TRAINING AT A FRACTION OF THE COST by Amy Sharp
B
ecky Litton spent a year taking care of her mother. “During that time, I gained some weight that I didn’t like. When I voiced this to a friend, she suggested we try Koko FitClub together. I’m 53 years old and I have to work out. This is the only place I’ve found where I look forward to it and I want to go!” Koko FitClub combines technology with individualized coaching to customize your workouts. Becky started last February with a fat burning program. “I like that I can do these on my own,” says Becky. “Like a personal trainer, the machine guides me and tells me what to do. I don’t have to think. And it really pushes me! I used to work out with a personal trainer. I was paying $3000 for 50 sessions, and I went three times a week.
Those 50 sessions disappeared quickly. Koko FitClub is every bit the same thing for a reasonable monthly fee, and I go at least four times a week.” Today, Becky has moved to an exercise and strength building program to improve her tennis game. She’s also started mixing in Koko FitClub’s Koko X workouts: Koko’s free motion machine designed to work functional movement. Becky says, “Koko X might be the best workout I’ve ever had. These workouts are done with a trainer. Art, the manager at Katy Seven Meadows, guides me through the Koko X workouts. He told me if I really pushed myself, I would be able to get to balls I never imagined. Last Tuesday a deep shot went over my partner’s head. I was way on the other side, but I got to it, put my hand out, and got it over. The other team was just standing there...they did not expect me to get the ball over the net, and neither did I! It was exactly what Art had said would happen!” All three area Koko FitClubs are locally owned by Veronica and Mark Malhiot. “I love Koko FitClub,” says Becky. “It’s a place where average, normal people can go and be successful. I see people of all ages, body types and physical challenges talking about how it’s helped them. I would recommend Koko FitClub. 100%.”
KOKO FITCLUB KATY - KINGSLAND | 281-646-1000 19901 KINGSLAND BLVD. HOUSTON, TX 77094 KATYKINGSLAND.KOKOFITCLUB.COM
SUGAR LAND | 281-240-KOKO 18318 UNIVERSITY BLVD., STE. 300 SUGAR LAND, TX KOKOSUGARLAND.COM
KATY - SEVEN MEADOWS | 281-769-9833 23010 SEVEN MEADOWS PKWY. KATY, TX 77494 KATY.KOKOFITCLUB.COM
by Trusted homeowners
everywhere! Call for your Fall Rodent Inspection Today!
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Ronique Bastine Robinson
www.bastinelaw.com or www.thatsmylawyer.law 12603 SW Frwy Suite 571 • Stafford, Texas
8 ~ UPCLOSE ~ December 2018
BUGCO Pest Control 281-240-2157 www.bugco.org
Managing Partner
FAMILY LAW
9720 Harlem Road #B3 Richmond, TX 77407
It’s Really Hard to Stop A Trane.
Trust Us.
C
hances are, you’ve heard or seen a Trane commercial with the slogan, “It’s hard to stop a Trane.” But can a Texas longhorn push around a Trane air conditioner? Brian Jackson, local rancher and owner of Jackson Air and Heat, may or may not have put one of his longhorns to the test! Brian says, “Trane HVAC products undergo some of the industry’s most rigorous testing, ensuring that your system will stand the test of time no matter what the weather brings. Trane is the only product we carry at Jackson Air and Heat. It’s the only product we need to carry. Once you’ve had one, you never go back. I’ve got a Trane XV20i Variable Speed air conditioning unit with TruComfort® technology in my own house, and my family would kill me if I brought home another brand.” What people love about a Trane is the fact that it runs at exactly the right speed to keep your home comfortable. Because
We’ve Checked. by Olivia Cane of its state of the art technology, a Trane times to install a new Trane system. “Not knows exactly when to switch from air- only can you get out ahead of seasonal conditioning to heat, which means you pricing, but our schedules are more flexnever have to mess with the thermostat. ible now than they are in the summer There are no hot spots or freezing cold months when everybody’s looking for a zones. And you can forget having to new air conditioner. There’s no reason to listen to the loud rattle of your old air let your old air conditioner keep working conditioning wheezing to life every five twice as hard for three times the money minutes. A Trane TruComfort XV20i and half the result. We’ve been in Sugar Variable Speed is one of the quiet- Land for more than 36 years and counting, est air conditioners on the making sure your life is as stress-free and market. You can also con- carefree as possible. Give us a call and let trol your thermostat from us show you just how great air conditionafar with your laptop or ing can be!” smartphone, which means Jackson Air and Heat, Inc. your house is always the Sugar Land’s Oldest perfect temperature when you Independent Trane Dealer get home. License #TACLB29585 “But the thing my wife likes best 281-301-1403 of all is the fact that a Trane unit saves us a ton of money,” says Brian. “Not only is it super energy efficient, which automatically lowers your energy bill, but you can take advantage of some amazing incentives like 0% financing for 60 months or instant rebates.” Brian also let us in on this little PROUD SPONSOR OF THE HOUSTON TEXANS secret: Off-season is one of the best
www.LicenseToChill.us
?
ASK MARGIE The Lawyer Who Cares
THIS MONTH’S TOPIC:
Peace of Mind by Amy Sharp eace. It’s a theme that weaves through our festive holiday season. We all seek peace of mind as the old year ends and the new begins. That’s why now is the perfect time to examine the effectiveness of your life and plan your legacy. Your legacy is anything you hand down. As you gather with family this holiday season, take the time to notice your intangible gifts: what you have learned, your values, and giving of yourself to the world around you. But it’s also imperative to plan for your physical legacies—your assets. Dalyn Hoegemeyer, a financial advisor with a large Americanbased financial services firm, says, “I tell my clients that when you leave this earth, there are three places your assets can go: to your family, to your favorite charity, or to the government. Having the proper documentation in place to ensure your wishes are carried out is critical.” To carry out her own personal estate planning documentation, Dalyn chose Fort Bend attorney Margie Connolly. “Margie is the perfect fit...someone we can grow with as our needs change. For my family,
P
10 ~ UPCLOSE ~ December 2018
she’s created wills, financial and medical powers of attorney, medical directives, and a revocable transfer on death deed.” “Margie was able to look at my goals and my age, and create a strategy to protect my assets based on my scenario,” continues Dalyn. “That’s why she’s also one of the attorneys I refer clients to. From wills and powers of attorney to revocable or irrevocable trusts, Medicaid preparation, long term care preparation, and the various other scenarios that exist, Margie Dalyn Hoegemeyer, and I work together as a team to put financial advisor in place what is right for you. And when you work with Margie, your net worth does not matter. She does not charge a percentage of your estate to come up with a plan. It’s a flatfee for everyone. She’s truly passionate about making sure your assets are protected from going where you may not want them to go.” Your legacy is your chance to contribute positively to the future. Take this holiday season to bring yourself peace of mind by protect your hardearned physical legacy with proper estate planning documentation... because no one is guaranteed tomorrow. No one.
Margaret McCullough Connolly, PLLC
281-433-9488 • 346-309-4236 4610 Sweetwater, Suite 200, Sugar Land, Tx 77479 mmconnollylaw@gmail.com • www.mmconnollylaw.com
www.upclosemagazine.com
Trustworthy,
Budget-Conscious
and Down to Earth
Y
by Amy Sharp
moving forward. We had people ears ago, Ruston Hughes installed porcelain tile working at the house every in his home. “It just about killed him,” says his day. If something didn’t go wife Ellen. “So we knew when we redid our as planned, Teri apologized and bathrooms and kitchen, we were going to Your plowed through to get back on hire someone!” track as quickly as possible.” Ellen did her homework. She got bids from three A few things even surprised contractors. “Funny story,” says Ellen. “I was visiting Ellen. “The three projects my mother at her independent living facility. We were Specialist stayed on budget. Each cost talking about renovating, and her caregiver grabbed exactly what Teri told us it a copy of UpClose magazine and told me I should would. There was no extra and call Teri Gilberg (better known as the Re-Modelista). she didn’t nickel and dime us! For Ultimately, all three bids we received were similar in price. our kitchen cabinets, Teri sent a designer We just felt we had a good rapport with Teri. For example, we were keeping the porcelain floors that Ruston worked so hard to over to our house to sketch out our kitchen install. One contractor told us we couldn’t work with the floor color and let us design the drawers and cabinets. and create the kitchen I wanted. Teri said it was a perfectly good floor It was a nice surprise and let me tell you, a and we could make it work. She had a practical plan and we just liked pull out drawer for the trash and recycling and another for my spices has been life-changing! her. She is very down to earth.” The Hughes’ split the work into three projects. The first was to Finally, I trusted Teri’s crews in my home. I replace the shower in the small bathroom. The next was a complete didn’t feel I needed to babysit...which is a good master bath remodel, and the final was a complete kitchen remodel. thing because I do not have time for that. We “We wanted a ‘test’ project, then take a break, then move on if it went absolutely recommend Teri!” well,” says Ellen. “Needless to say, our ‘test’ was successful. Through all three projects, we were impressed with the communication. Teri Re-Modelista: started a group text with myself, my husband and her crew. We would Your Home Renovation Specialist get a text each morning telling us what would be happening that day, Specializes in Kitchen and Bath Remodels who to expect and when they would arrive. A nightly update told us “She Gets the Job Done!” 832-535-2501 • cell: 832-731-3191 progress made and next day expectations. She also kept the project www.theremodelista.com
&
Kitchen Bath
UPCLOSE ~ December 2018 ~ 11
Change Your Clothes, Change Your Life!
“Y
by Amy Sharp
our clothing has the potential either to enhance or hinder your personal brilliance,” says author of Change Your Clothes, Change Your Life, George Brescia. In his book, George explores the direct connection between what you wear and how you feel. On November 13th, our very own Mainstream Boutique of Richmond hosted George for the day. Mainstream Boutique clients were invited to sit down with George and talk about their life and fashion preferences free of charge. Then the magic happened. George selected outfits, and these lucky ladies emerged from the dressing room looking amazing and feeling more confident...simply by changing their clothes. “I believe in illuminating each person’s beauty,” says George. “And I believe fashion should be affordable for everyone. It’s what I love about Mainstream Boutique. There really IS something for everyone, no one is excluded. No matter your income, you’ll find something modern and really cool to take home…and you will always feel welcome at Mainstream Boutique.” Mainstream Boutique is a line of neighborhood boutiques dedicated to empowering, strengthening and celebrating women. Our Richmond location
Fabulous discount events are scheduled at Mainstream Boutique throughout December. Follow “Mainstream Boutique (Richmond)” on Facebook for up to date details!
is locally owned by Michael Henning, and the very fashionable Jackie Durham is our Head Stylist and Director of Business Operations. Michael says, “Jackie and I are ecstatic we had the opportunity to welcome George and share his wonderful insights on clothing and fashion with our clients.” George also does regular red carpet commentary and fashion and trend reporting for CBS, ABC, NBC and FOX. His early career included 25 years working with top names in fashion, from Ralph Lauren to Donna Karan and Tommy Hilfiger. You can follow George on Instagram: @Georgebrescia. This visit from George Brescia is just the beginning. There’s always something fun and exciting happening at Mainstream Boutique of Richmond. Follow “Mainstream Boutique (Richmond)” on Facebook to be sure you don’t miss out! Mainstream Boutique of Richmond • 832-449-3838 5530 Long Prairie Trace Suite 600, Richmond, Texas www.mainstreamboutique.com
This Holiday Season, let Lone Star Floors put something beautiful under your tree.
Lone Star Floors • 3 Locations • www.lonestarfloors.com Sugar Land: 281-564-1345 10009 Highway 6 South, Sugar Land, TX
12 ~ UPCLOSE ~ December 2018
Katy: 281-398-2319 873 South Mason Rd. #300, Katy, TX
Woodlands: 832-813-0813 24627 I-45 North Suite # A, The Woodlands/Spring, Texas
G E T
M O R E
F R O M
LONE STAR
FLOORS
THE
PHILOSOPHY
A KW (Keller Williams) Southwest Experience
W
Samantha and James Morris’ Story
hen James and Samantha (Sam) Morris relocated to Houston in 2011, Sam found KW (Keller Williams) SW agent Valerie Diaz’s bio online. Sam says, “Valerie’s from Colombia, and I’m from Panama in Central America. I just thought we would work well together. Though she knew we weren’t ready to buy, Valerie met me at La Madeleine and we drove around a few neighborhoods. When we decided to rent, I told Valerie we needed a little, uncomfortable house so we wouldn’t stay long. Valerie found the perfect rental in Katy.” Nine months later, the Morris family was ready to buy. “We were looking in Sugar Land,” says Sam. “And houses were selling in an hour! I was emotional and wanted a home. We put in offers on a few that did not go well. Valerie became my big sister, or maybe my guardian angel. She would tell me ‘not this one’ when she knew it wasn’t right and I was ready to just do it. When we saw a
‘Coming Soon’ sign in front of a house on a street we liked, James told me to call Valerie and get us in to look at it. She did. We saw it on Wednesday and it listed on Friday...and I made a decision in about 32 seconds. I hadn’t even gone upstairs! Of course, my guardian angel advised me to go through the entire house. Once we decided, Valerie took care of everything: the contract, the negotiating, and the renegotiating after the inspection.” Today, Sam is a teacher in the Briar Forest area. “My kids go to my school,” says Sam. “The commute was getting very difficult, especially as my kids get older and are doing after school extracurricular activities. I called Valerie again. I told her we needed to live as close to the school as possible. After discussing our budget, Valerie identified the areas we could afford. She set up autogenerated emails of listings in our area and price range to make it easy to preview homes. Again, she advised with our best interest in
by Amy Sharp
mind...talking me out of a house by a water plant, and another with visible power lines. We found a house six miles from school and it’s amazing! To sell our Sugar Land home, Valerie set up a timeline with goals and sent a staging consultant. We had a contract in less than a week.” “I realize after my three transactions,” says Sam, “that what real estate agents do is a craft. There are many pieces to this puzzle, and Valerie and KWSW do this craft extremely well. I recommend her every chance I get, including to my sister who purchased a townhouse in 2012 with Valerie as her agent.” Rent, buy or sell, don’t settle for an agent that doesn’t understand this craft. KWSW is committed to your best interest, always. What can they do for you today?
KW Southwest ~ 281-265-0000 1650 Highway 6, Ste 350 • Sugar Land, TX 77478
Your local destination for all real estate listings. KWSW.com provides comprehensive school, master planned communities, and neighborhood information on homes for sale in our hometown.
www.upclosemagazine.com
UPCLOSE ~ December 2018 ~ 13
Make Your Holiday Even Merrier!
I
by Marie Page
t’s the most wonderful time of the year. But for the one making it happen, the holiday stress is real. “We can help!” says Imelda Mahoney, owner of Mahoney’s House Cleaning Services. “My teams and I have been in the business for more than 10 years. Clients ask for extra help in many different ways each holiday season...so we’ve put together a list of services we can provide to help you take the edge off!” • Decorate a clean surface - There’s no better feeling than decorating your house for the holidays without having to worry about cleaning the house first. “We can come in and handle all the not-so-fun cleaning, then your family can enjoy a peaceful day decorating the tree and hanging the stockings.”
list you need to complete before the big day. Call Mahoney’s and tell them where you need help. Clean the oven and the fridge? The list is up to you. You’ll gain an entire day back by letting Mahoney’s do the dirty work. • Organize toys before Santa - Get organized before Santa brings the latest and greatest round of toys. “We can organize rooms and make sure everything has a place...and donating old, unused toys is a great way to give back during this season of giving!”
• Hosting overnight guests - If you have a room that hasn’t been cleaned in some time, Mahoney’s can come in and tidy up, making the room fresh and inviting. They’ll even take care of cleaning the fan and chasing the dust bunnies from the blinds and out from under the bed. • Post holiday cleanup - When the holidays are said and done, it’s always hard to get motivated to put away all the decorations and get rid of the many Christmas tree needles that have been pushed around the house. This might be the perfect time to try a Mahoney’s House Cleaning Services one time deep clean! From the Mahoney’s family to yours, have a wonderful holiday season and a blessed New Year!
• Host the holidays stress-free You have a never-ending to do
A Mahoney’s House Cleaning Services
gift certificate is the perfect gift for all the busy people on your list!
Mahoney’s House Cleaning Services • 281-777-1526 mahoneyshousecleaning@yahoo.com • www.mahoneyshousecleaningservices.com 14 ~ UPCLOSE ~ December 2018
A Loyal Customer for 40+ Years
by Amy Sharp
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lan’s Plumbing has been a staple here in Fort Bend County for more than 40 years...and Gibby and his wife Ruah Jane have known owner and master plumber Alan Burkhalter for even longer! “We moved into our house in January of 1974,” says Gibby. “We met Alan when he was working for another plumbing company. When he went out on his own... we went with him.” Why has Gibby stuck with Alan for all these years? “Well, I can’t find anything I don’t like about him,” says Gibby. “We get along, and I never have any problems getting service. I hear terrible stories of other plumbers from friends and neighbors. One neighbor had a plumber come on the weekend that left after an hour because my neighbor couldn’t tell them where the leak was. I recommended they call Alan’s Plumbing. Alan and his crew found the problem in less than an hour.” Alan’s Plumbing has always been familyowned and operated. Alan’s wife Jennifer answers the phones and takes care of the business. His son Luke and his brother Chris are also master plumbers. Alan’s son Beau is journeyman licensed, and his son Jake is a plumbing apprentice. This crew is completed by longtime employee Jeff Johnson who is also journeyman licensed,
cet, sink and lavatory,” says Gibby. “A year ago when we had a leak in the washroom, we repiped the house on Alan’s recommendation (moving from galvanized pipe to PEX pipe). I think the only thing we haven’t replaced is the main line to the house! I’ve already talked to Luke about what we would do if something happens to that main line, because I am 86 years old and I don’t dig anymore!” “There are a lot of people out there that use Alan’s because I told them to,” says Gibby. “If I have questions, I can call Jennifer and she gets answers for me. Jennifer and Alan have raised hard workers and this team always does quality work.” Gibby and Ruah Jane have been married 62 years. Alan and Jennifer and the entire Burkhalter family extend a huge congratulations to them, and a sincere thank you for many, many, many years of loyalty and support. “We are who we are because of clients like Gibby,” says Alan. “Thank you. We owe it all to you.”
and apprentices Jaime and Trevor. In the last 40+ years, Alan’s Plumbing has replaced most all of the plumbing in Gibby’s home. “We’ve replaced every fau-
Alan’s Plumbing
281-261-1064 License M-18995
WWW.ALANS.PLUMBING www.upclosemagazine.com
UPCLOSE ~ December 2018 ~ 15
A UNIQUE
SOLUTION
When Replacing is Cost Prohibitive
S
by Amy Sharp
ally and Jeff Seeger’s home had white 4x4 tile countertops in the kitchen. “They were old-fashioned and shiny,” says Sally. “We really wanted to modernize the kitchen. We got bids from two contractors for granite and quartz, and the cost was prohibitive. We are not going to live here the rest of our lives, and we could not sink that kind of money into the countertops and be able to get it out...so we started to look at other things. My husband actually saw an ad for Miracle Method Surface Refinishing in UpClose magazine and we thought the concept looked super cool. So Jeff gave them a call.” Jeff learned the local owners of Miracle Method Surface Refinishing, Paul and Jonee Barnett, would be at a home show in Katy. “We met Paul and Jonee at the home show, and we were really impressed with their product, their professionalism, and how eager they were to help,” says Sally. “Within a week, they gave us a call to schedule an appointment. We were super impressed with how responsive they were. Paul came out and I really liked what he showed me...and when my husband didn’t make it to the meeting, Paul came out a second time! He even gave us a reference. A couple in our neighborhood had their countertops refinished, and we could schedule an appointment to go see them in person. It’s one thing to see a sample, but something else to see it in somebody’s home. It was really nice, and I was so thankful for that opportunity. In fact, we had planned to do our backsplash and countertops in one color, but when we saw the two-tone in that house...we copied them.” The Seegers decided to go ahead and replace their appliances at the same time. Their cooktop was dropped into the countertop with a separate wall oven installed underneath. The cooktop they picked would not fit in the hole. “Not only that,” says Sally, “buying two appliances was more expensive than purchasing a freestanding range. So now we had to find somebody else to cut the countertop and the cabinets. Jeff mentioned it to Paul, and he said he could do it! We did not even think that was a possibility. But he gave us a reasonable price and Paul himself did that part of the project. It turned out beautiful.” “We are very happy with the way our finished product looks,” says Sally. “And we are real-
16 ~ UPCLOSE ~ December 2018
Paul and Jonee Barnett ly impressed with Miracle Method Surface Refinishing. They are very professional, very clean, and they did exactly what they promised. What they provide is a very unique solution that I highly recommend. We will be using them again this spring to refinish the surfaces in our bathroom!” Miracle Method Surface Refinishing 281-240-2284 603 Murphy Road, Stafford, TX (call for hours) MiracleMethod.com/houstonsw
A Whole Lot of Texas With a Little Bit of Italy
Holidays are about shared experiences with family and friends.
I
talians are known for their familycentric culture. Many families that immigrated from Italy are traditionalists by nature. Here in Texas, our annual family and friends get-togethers tend to revolve around food. There are few Texans more invested in the delicious process of making that food than proud native son, Dr. Thomas Lomonte, D.D.S. “I was born in Beaumont and lived all my life in Southeast Texas,” says Dr. Lomonte. “But my grandparents came from Italy. What I’ve done is taken my Italian love of food and translated it into Texan. We call it our Lomonte Family Italian
by Olivia Cane
Sausage Making Party. We do it every year, and it’s a lot of fun.” Each November, the Lomontes get together in the warm Texas sunshine to mix and stuff sausage, using a secret family recipe. “My Uncle Frank started the tradition,” explains Dr. Lomonte. “His son— my cousin—continued the tradition, and now it’s our turn. My siblings and cousins and our kids and grandkids all participate in making delicious Texas-Italian sausage.” “We truly love everything about the holidays, but what we love most is that feeling of doing something for others. It’s a life philosophy that extends to my dental www.upclosemagazine.com
practice. I am here to be of service to you and your family. You are my life’s work! I’ve been practicing at my same location on Murphy Road in Stafford since 1982, which has enabled me to build lasting relationships with all my patients.” When you leave Dr. Lomonte’s office, you’ll be grinning ear-to-ear. It’s what he lives for. Give him a call so he can make you smile today!
Thomas M. Lomonte, D.D.S.
“Come in as a patient, leave as a friend.” 12122 Murphy Rd., Stafford, TX 77477 (281) 530-1440 www.drthomaslomonte.com UPCLOSE ~ December 2018 ~ 17
The Best Cat Hull
s xa Te F in
by Amy Sharp
ishing is in Dave Kveton’s blood. “I’ve fished saltwater all my life,” says Dave. “At three, my dad would take me out to Port Bolivar in boats he built. My own son mastered the rod and reel by five. In 1995, I opened El Pescador Lodge in Port O’Connor so I could spend my days doing what I love best.” But a boat ride with a friend in 1999 changed Dave’s career path. “It was the best ride I’d ever had,” says Dave. “So good in fact...I bought the company. (But don’t worry...I still find plenty of time for fishing!)” Today El Pescador Boats offers the fastest
catamaran hull (cat hull) shallow water boat in it’s class. “There’s a lot of players in this space,” says Dave, “and we waited...looking at the good and the bad before we designed one ourselves. The hull is constructed with the most up-to-date composite available (no wood!) and it does it all. It runs shallow, comes up shallow, and it’s an extremely dry and comfortable ride. Even in 20-30 mph winds...you can fish. Just today I was running with my three anglers from Baffin Bay back to Flour Bluff in a northeast wind 25+ mph all the way. It was a fast, smooth and dry ride with a 2 ft chop and never got a drop of water on anyone.”
And these cats—favorites of professional guides, serious sports fishermen, and weekenders alike—aren’t mass produced. They’re custom built. “Come in and we can put together a design, then build to your specifications. Choose your Evinrude E-TEC G2, pick a color (or two!)...then outfit as you wish. We can do power poles, GPS, stereo and trolling motors.” Have a new idea? “Show it to us and if it works...we’ll build it.” Call Dave for a demo ride today and experience the best cat hull in Texas for yourself!
El Pescador Boats ~ Dave Kveton ~ 979-292-5144
www.elpescadorboats.com 18 ~ UPCLOSE ~ December 2018
HEALTH MATTERS WITH DR. STEVE HARRIS, DOCTOR OF CHIROPRACTIC WHERE PAIN RELIEF COMES NATURALLY
A
I Know it Works by Sara Adams
rchbishop Christopher Caros saw his first chiropractor when he was 24 years old. The Archbishop had unresolved pain in his lower back and neck as a result of a serious, three car collision he experienced his senior year in college. He has sought treatment for his back and neck pain for most of his life. Although he has had various degrees of success through the years, it wasn’t until he met Dr. Steve Harris of Sugar Land Health Center that he felt he received the best results. “I’m 72 years old,” the Archbishop says. “I used to run 6 days a week. In the past 4 years I have had three surgeries on my feet and I discovered I have scoliosis. I have been in a lot of pain lately, and I missed running. Seeing Dr. Harris changed all that.” The Archbishop had his first consultation with Dr. Harris at the beginning of October. He followed Dr. Harris’s treatment plan and kept up with his office visits. Through the course of his treatment he participated in several different modalities including Class IV Hot Laser Therapy and spinal disc decompression. Today he says, “Pretty soon I’ll be running again.” Dr. Harris offers a wide variety of chiropractic care modalities and associated therapies to help people with chronic pain or to help improve their overall musculoskeletal function and health. Dr. Harris opened Sugar Land Health Center in 1982, and has been in practice for over 40 years. Known for incorporating new technology and techniques that complement his safe and holistic approach, Dr. Harris offers gentle chiropractic care. Through his years as a chiropractor, Dr. Harris has developed his own methods and treatments for every layer of the body to promote healing. “I knew the first time I met Dr. Harris, there was something special about him. I felt at ease with him and his staff,” the Archbishop says. “I’ve tried to explain to people the difference in the care and the results I’ve gained by seeing Dr. Harris. What he does IS different. No one else is doing what Dr. Harris is doing. He’s really revolutionary;
Follow us! sugarlandhealthcenter @sugarlandhealthcenter DrSteveHarrisDC Check out our new look!
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he’s developed his own systems and the systems work for tough, even some surgical cases. I’m here to say, it works.”
New Patient Special
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281-980-1050 - Does not apply to Medicare or Personal Injury. - X-rays at regular charge. - Additional charges may apply.
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Sugar Land Health Center 281-980-1050 3425 Highway 6, Suite 101 (behind McDonalds near Williams Trace Blvd) Sugar Land, TX 77478 UPCLOSE ~ December 2018 ~ 19
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