August-September 2016
Magazine
It’s
Never Too
Late
It’s Never Too Late
and You’re Not Too Busy...
“I
had been thinking about pursuing an MBA for a long time. I received my Bachelor’s in Finance and Accounting from University of Houston Clear Lake back in 2009. I am an Assistant Financial Controller and I work full-time. I am also a fulltime single parent to a beautiful two year old daughter.” “A good friend of mine attended Belhaven University and she just raved about it. It is the perfect place for my situation. It is really close to my job, so traffic is not an issue. And classes start at 6pm...which is both after I am off work and a time when my parents can watch my daughter.” “I am now one year into my two year program and I have discovered other distinct advantages to Belhaven. The class sizes are very small, and everyone knows my name. The teachers know me, the office staff knows me...everyone. I also see the same people in my classes; other people like me who are pursuing their MBA. We have become good friends, and I am creating a network I will
“The class sizes are very small, and everyone knows my name.” have for the rest of my life. I know there are no guarantees, but I am hoping the MBA will further advance my career.” “I absolutely recommend Belhaven. The education and friendships are excellent and it is close and convenient—right off I-10!” ~ Leif Lopez, Belhaven University student With small class sizes (15-20 students), experienced faculty, and a career-relevant curriculum, Belhaven gives you the opportunity to develop your gifts and abilities in ways a large, impersonal university never could. With classes that meet just once a week, you can keep your life outside the classroom.
2 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ August-September 2016
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Conveniently located in the Energy Corridor, Belhaven University has been repeatedly named one of “America’s 100 Best College Buys.” This program delivers accelerated adult education and both bachelor’s and master’s degrees that are tailored to the needs of busy working adults. Enroll soon to become a successful Belhaven graduate with the tools needed to succeed in today’s global economy. Financial aid is available to those who qualify. Degree completion programs at Belhaven are the answer to fitting a degree into your busy schedule!
West Houston Campus 281-579-9977 15115 Park Row, Houston, TX 77084 houston.belhaven.edu
Finance
P
a Car...
and Enjoy the Difference!
urchasing a car is a big decision. You want the car that fits your lifestyle, and you want the best deal available. You’ve heard about the difference in car buying at Classic Chevy Sugar Land. But did you know those differences extend into the Finance Department? “I’ve been in this business for more than 15 years with different dealerships,” says Finance Manager Alex Hinojosa. “And I can tell you, here at Classic Chevy, we take care of our customers. It’s the way owner Don Kerstetter wants his business to be run. We’re competitive with any financing option out there, and we offer all incentives available. We give our customers every single thing they qualify for—no ifs, ands or buts. I recently had a customer qualify for a great rate, and with their great credit, they qualified for rebates too. They were given both. Trust me, that doesn’t happen everywhere. But here at Classic Chevy, you never have to wonder. You get everything you qualify for.” When you step into Classic Chevy, you immediately notice the laid back atmosphere. You’re greeted by a smiling face wearing shorts and a golf shirt. It’s a difference in atmosphere significant to Alex. “Wearing shorts everyday is quite a change from a suit and tie...but what I really enjoy is the true ‘difference.’ To be honest, I was out of this business. I was tired of the long thankless hours I had experienced elsewhere. I knew Classic Chevy General Manager Mark Kolon...we worked together
by Amy Sharp
years ago. When he called me about the job opening at Classic, he promised it was different. I hadn’t worked in a dealership in awhile, but I decided to give it a shot. That promise rings true. I work my hours and go home to live my life. I love the laid back and casual atmosphere. I really am relaxing and enjoying the difference! It’s easy to give great service when you love where you work.” Every individual in the Classic Chevy Finance Department has more than five years experience. Most have 10 to 15 years. They’re passionate about making sure you get the best deal out there with the most incentives. “We work with you and look at your scenario,” says Alex. “And we promise to take care of you. If you have experienced a recent job loss, divorce or other life change, second-chance financing is also available. Our team is here to help.” Visit www.classicchevysugarland.com/chevy-finance-specials to see the many financing specials currently available. And when you’re in the market for a new car, Alex and his team will make sure you get the best deal out there. Enjoy the difference!
281-491-9000 www.classicchevysugarland.com
SHOP FORT BEND
13115 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478
“She Understands the Whole Nine Yards.” by Marie Page
C
lint and Diane Bittick really love the Fulshear area. “It’s quiet, peaceful, with a small town feel. You’re out of the crazy traffic; it’s like living in the country. There are beautiful rivers, streams and huge trees everywhere.” Clint and Diane decided they wanted to explore new-build options for their new home in Fulshear. While they were going through the process, someone recommended a real estate agent that lived in the area. That Realtor was Paula Rucky. “We met Paula and we really liked her. She’s vivacious and outgoing, truly understanding the real estate market and her clients’ needs. We chose her to help us find our Fulshear home and handle the sale of our Katy home.” The Bitticks ultimately selected a new construction CalAltantic home in Fulbrook on Fulshear Creek. “One thing I really learned through this process is that real estate agents have to stay on their toes. There are so many rules and regulations, the paperwork is nearly triple what it was the last time we bought a home. Paula was the absolute right person for the job. She worked with the builder of our Fulshear home to make sure everything was done correctly. Clint is a Marine and Paula let us know about all the VA options available to us. She understands real estate procedures, the laws, the closing process ... the whole nine yards. We would recommend her to anyone!” Paula has spent the last 30 years watching and helping the Katy area grow and evolve ... an area that now includes Fulshear. “Like the Bittick’s, I’m super excited about Fulshear,” says Paula. “Lots of growth but still keeps that small town charm. My office is located on FM 1463 so I’m in the perfect place to assist you with your next home purchase. I would love to show you what’s new on the horizon. Give me a call and let’s chat!”
R E A L E S TA T E . . . R E I M A G I N E D .
A N D GR
Paula Rucky, REALTOR REMAX Hall of Fame REMAX Top 20 - Houston REMAX Platinum & 100% Club Top Producer 2008 - 2016 RE/MAX Grand Rucky Properties 281-793-5779 • paula@ruckyproperties.com ®
www.ruckyproperties.com On The Cover Belhaven University Founder and Publisher Gina Pizzini Editor Gina Pizzini gina@upclosemagazine.com Business Editor Amy Sharp Layout and Design Night Sky Creative Account Executives Sara Adams Sharon Ballint Writers Olivia Cane Marie Page Amy Sharp Photography J. Thomas “Jay” Ford Accounting Kaitlin Ballint
• Stationery Party Invitations • Hot Stamping Cards, Gifts and More... • Invitations • Scanning 281-536-4900 8030 FM 359 South • Gifts Fulshear, TX 77441 • Greeting Cards Monday-Saturday 10:00 - 6:00
www.frecklescentral.com 4 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ August-September 2016
UpClose Magazine is published monthly and direct mailed to 150,000 homes. For information on having your business featured in UpClose, call
281-235-0600. A portion of the editorial content contained in this publication is controlled and contracted by the advertisers contained herein and is part of their advertisement. UpClose Magazine is not responsible for content of these editorials or advertisements. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.
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Collaborative and Comprehensive Therapy for Your Child - Ellie’s Story
M
where they attend school for hours each week. However, parents should also be aware that the State defines school-based therapies as supportive services that a student needs in order to learn. I absolutely encourage school-based therapy, but it’s important to realize that the level of schoolbased services will not match those services provided in a medical model...or your child may not even qualify for school-based therapy when they could, in fact, benefit from therapy. That’s Ellie’s situation.” Amy was Ellie’s teacher in a public school structured learning classroom for the past three years. She’s seen first hand the benefits of continued private speech therapy for Ellie. “Ellie’s mom kept us in the loop about what Ellie was working on in therapy, and provided us things to work on...things like pronouncing multisyllabic words. We just worked these items into Ellie’s school day. I do outside tutoring with both typical and special needs students. To me, private therapy is similar. Students develop a deeper relationship with the teacher or therapist in a smaller, more comfortable environment. With the students I tutor, it’s most beneficial if tutoring correlates to what is happening in school. The same is true of therapy. The more we Co-founder Paige Kinkade can reinforce what these children are working on elsewhere, the better we
eet Ellie. She’s fifteen years old and going into the 9th grade. Ellie has Down Syndrome. She has received speech therapy from Medcare Pediatric Group for nearly nine years. She also received speech therapy through her school up until 6th grade, when she was no longer eligible for the program. Ellie’s mom still feels Ellie needs speech therapy. Is she right? The answer is “Yes.” Paige Kinkade, co-owner of Medcare Pediatric Group, says, “The State of Texas provides physical, occupational, and speech therapy through the schools to students with a need. It’s a great program and absolutely one that parents should take advantage of. Students are in a setting with their peers, working in the environment
can help them. I love the progress I’ve seen in Ellie. That’s what this is all about. Intervening and helping these children reach their potential.” “Here at Medcare,” says Paige, “our goal is simple. A higher quality of life for children with specific needs. We are more than happy to collaborate with anyone—parents, teachers, grandparents, babysitters, other therapists—that shares this same goal for your child. Ellie’s progress is thanks to many factors, including her therapy services and the collaboration of her fantastic teacher, Amy. We are here for you, just let us know how we can help.” In addition to speech therapy, Medcare offers occupational therapy, physical therapy, and pediatric private duty nursing to children aged birth to 21 years. MedCare Pediatric Group accepts Medicaid and will work with any insurance company. Call 713-9959292 today to learn more about their comprehensive range of pediatric nursing and therapy care. MedCare Pediatric Group, LP 713-995-9292 12371 S. Kirkwood Rd. Stafford, Texas 77477 www.medcarepediatric.com
UPCLOSE Katy ~ August-September 2016 ~ 5
Q: I want to buy a home, but where do I start? A: Did you know Academy Mortgage has an open-door
Mortgage? Simple as 1, 2, 3.
policy? Branch Manager Christine Boles says, “No one hesitates to walk into a bank and ask a question...but it’s the same policy here at Academy Mortgage. You don’t need an appointment, and someone is always available to talk and lead you down the right path.”
Q: If I apply for prequalification, how much
Leave the Rest to Me
Christine Boles Branch Manager
does it cost?
A: Many financial institutions charge a $400 application fee, whether or not you’re approved. “There are no hidden or upfront fees here at Academy,” says Christine. “We are always available to answer questions and run credit scores and loan applications. Even when and if we close on a loan, you’re never charged an application fee.” Q: What if my credit score is not high enough? A: “That’s the great thing about being a fully-integrated lender,” says Christine. “We are here
to assist you with all aspects of obtaining a home mortgage. From questions to closing, we are with you every step of the way. Should you need credit help, we are glad to connect you with one of our credit repair referral partners.”
Academy Mortgage prides itself on face-to-face service, start to finish. Questions— no matter how simple or complicated—are always welcome. “Our goal is to get you prequalified, find a house, and stay with you until the loan closes. We can help you. Just drop by...no appointment necessary!”
Academy Mortgage - Katy 2830 Commercial Center Blvd. Ste. 103 Katy, TX 77494 Christine Boles Branch Manager, NMLS #653543 281-773-3853 www.CABoles.com State Lic #653543 Equal Housing Lender Corp NMLS #3113 MAC716-1438490
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Countless Years of Quality Service
Taming the Texas Heat
R
by Olivia Cane
eal estate agent Gayle Huffman is the owner of Keller Williams Premier Realty—a #1 market share company in the Katy area. Keller Williams Premier has grown so much over its 17 year span, the office has moved three times. Gayle also once owned a Keller Williams location in West Houston, and together with her husband Phil she’s lived in four homes. All of these offices and homes have one thing in common...they’ve all enjoyed air conditioning maintained and serviced by True Fix A/C & Heating—Katy’s neighborhood A/C company for more than 40 years! “We started with True Fix more than 20 years ago and would not dream of using anyone else,” says Gayle. “Every new office, every new home, we’ve brought them with us. First and foremost, they are just incredibly courteous. They stay in constant communication. They call to remind me about appointments or upcoming service, and the technician calls when he’s on his way. When at the office or my home, they’re very conscientious of my property, including wearing the little blue booties to make sure my floors stay clean. The entire staff and crew are very well spoken. They do what they say they are going to do in the time they said they were going to do it. Plus, True Fix is really hands-on. We had an old building in Sealy, TX we made into a loft. The building was built for commercial purposes, not residential, but we were living there and having a tough time keeping it cool. Gerald Svetlik, the
True Fix owner, came out and made suggestions of things we could try. He also recommended a product that really worked for our situation. We’ve been very happy to have found True Fix so long ago, and worked with them at so many homes and offices.” True Fix A/C & Heating is a 2016 BBB Winner of Distinction. Owner Gerald Svetlik says, “Services began in 1972. As Gayle has learned, customer service is the pinnacle of our family-owned and operated business. We don’t use subcontractors and many of our employees have been with us for over ten years. We also belong to a prestigious group of contractors called Trane Comfort Specialists. No other air conditioner is as efficient at taming our Texas combo of heat and humidity. The new Trane TruComfort Variable Speed system maintains maximum efficiency by automatically making minor, continuous adjustments all day and all night long. And as part of our commitment to service, when we put in your system you get a 100% performance guarantee.” “At Keller Williams Premier, we recommend True Fix as one of our preferred service providers,” says Gayle. “And Phil and I always recommend them to friends and neighbors. You just don’t find this kind of service very often!” True Fix A/C & Heating
281-392-9334 Greenbusch, Katy, TX 77494 www.truefix.com license#TACLB004843E.
UPCLOSE Katy ~ August-September 2016 ~ 7
Wall to Wall Family
Get More from Lone Star Floors
by Amy Sharp or more than thirty years, Lone Star Floors has installed floors for families like yours all over southeast Texas. Owned by cousins Mohamed Naser, Ziad Mukhaimer, and Imad Mansour, the secret to Lone Star Floors’ longevity is simple: Family and Quality. This “wall to wall” family has twelve kids between them...that’s 24 pitter-pattering little feet that grew up in their stores. “We used to play games...like go count the red floor samples,” says Mohamed. “They would spend hours doing it, and they would laugh at the silliest things.” Now the kids are growing up and the grandkids are playing those same games. And the tight-knit Lone Star family extends to you, the customer, and everyone that works at Lone Star. “More than 75% of our business is referrals and repeats,” says Ziad. “Because when you work with us, you’re never just a number. We greet you as family every time you walk through our door...even if it’s ten years later. It’s the same with our employees. Many have been with us since the beginning. Part of our family.” This family-owned and operated business has enjoyed an A+ rating with the BBB every year since it’s inception. The Sugar Land store opened in 1995, and the Katy and Woodlands stores followed. Both Ziad and Imad installed flooring for ten years prior to opening the store. “For every floor we sell,” says Mohamed, “we install it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. There’s no cutting corners, no shortchanging on materials, and job preparation is done correctly. Everything by the book. And should you have a problem...give us a call and we handle it immediately. Ziad and Imad have both worked as installers, they understand both sides of the fence.” “We might have thirty years experience, but we are constantly improving,” adds Ziad. “We strive to give the best quality and experience possible.” In addition to flooring, Lone Star Floors does full kitchen and bathroom remodeling—including plumbing, shower glass, painting and granite. With more than thirty vendors at their fingertips, wall to wall, let the Lone Star family take care of your flooring and remodeling needs. Visit today!
F
Lone Star Floors ~ 3 Locations 281-398-2319 873 South Mason Rd. #300, Katy, TX 10009 Highway 6 South Sugar Land,TX 281-564-1345 24627 I-45 North Suite # A The Woodlands/Spring, Texas 832-813-0813 www.lonestarfloors.com
Be Ready for the
Unexpected I
f there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that the only consistent thing in life is change. And when change comes, it can happen with frightening suddenness. That’s why having rock solid insurance is so important. When life is unraveling all around you, the last thing you need to worry about is whether your insurance carrier has got you covered. That’s a business model Kim and Randy Stacy of Fulshear Insurance take very much to heart. “What has made us successful is putting the needs of our customers first, rather than our own,” says Kim. “If we can’t provide you with the same or better coverage for the same or lower price, we recommend you stay with your current carrier. It’s that simple. We don’t lower your coverage just to say we are saving you money and get your business. We want to know you have the right coverage, so if the unexpected happens, you can sleep (and we can sleep) knowing you’re taken care of.” Randy explains it this way. “Being an independent insurance agency allows us to offer multiple carriers to our customers. ‘One size fits all’ isn’t true with insurance. We offer home, auto, commercial and business coverage as well as flood, rental properties, umbrella, RV, motorcycle, boat, and commercial auto. There are several niche markets we service including RV parks, mini-warehouses, hunting/fishing outfitters, shooting facilities and firearms dealers.” “Some people think because we are independent, we work with no-name brands,” continues Randy. “That’s not true. We are proud to offer Travelers, Safeco (a division of Liberty Mutual), Mercury, The Hartford and many more companies including Progressive.” 8 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ August-September 2016
by Olivia Cane
Kim and Randy are very active in the community. Randy helped launch the Fulshear Area Chamber of Commerce and Kim sits on the Board of Directors for the Fulshear-Simonton Heritage Society. “We love Fulshear and have lived here for almost twenty years,” says Kim. “Give us a call and let us match you with coverage that’s precisely, exactly, 100% right for you and your family.”
FulshearInsurance 281-533-9067 30417 5th Street, Suite A Fulshear, TX 77441 www.fulshearinsurance.com
W
A Backyard Oasis Makeover with an All-Natural Look by Amy Sharp
hen Steve Goodman’s small patio upgrade turned into a major renovation including his twelve year old pool, he looked for a company that could take on the entire project. “I read about Bratton Pools in a magazine, and one day I saw their truck driving through my neighborhood. I took that as a sign and gave them a call.” “I liked Mike Bratton (co-owner of Bratton Pools) immediately,” continues Steve. “He has a great demeanor and he really took the time to explain the process and answer all of my questions. I also liked that Mike, the owner of the company, would stay involved throughout the entire project. A handshake and a nod go a long way, and I just felt good about Mike and Bratton Pools.” Steve’s hunch worked out well. “My wife and I like a natural look, but we had no idea on the materials we wanted. We had a picture in mind, and Mike was able to produce that picture. He brought over samples of tile, travertine coping and other materials, and really walked us through the process. For the plaster, he showed me pictures of pebble plaster, but I couldn’t really tell what it was...so he brought samples of that too. It feels like the ocean floor...not totally smooth, but not rough either.
We went with it and we love it. Our existing pea-gravel deck was covered with a non-slip Spray-Deck surface the color of sand. The shallow pool beach entrance continues that color until it turns to an aqua, Mediterranean blue. The water just looks radiant...it’s a nice rich color. And the new tile and coping blend perfectly.” Not only does Steve love his beautiful new outdoor living space, he loved the communication and service provided by Bratton Pools. “I’m a school teacher, so I couldn’t take off to be there during the day, and I wasn’t available by phone except for one small window each day. Mike worked with me. I never took off work during construction, and the communication with me was always precise...which I really appreciated. The same was true of the invoicing. There were no hidden fees. The invoices were easy to read and exactly the pricing and costs we had been provided and that we had agreed upon.” “I would absolutely recommend Bratton Pools to anyone doing a pool or backyard upgrade or makeover,” finishes Steve. “In fact, I plan to have them back to my own home in the near future to convert my pool from chlorine to salt!” Bratton Pools ~ 281-988-7700 www.brattonpools.com
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UPCLOSE Katy ~ August-September 2016 ~ 9
DENTAL Health
Your Dental IQ Starts with
Y
Knowing Your ABCs
our kids learn a lot at school—how to count, read, play well with others. But your kids learn most of what they know about life from you, and that includes more than just the alphabet. It means learning the fundamentals of what it takes to care for their body...from teeth to toes. It means teaching them their dental ABCs. Our first dental ABC is “Add Biannual Checkups.” “Before school starts is a perfect time to bring your kids in for a checkup,” says Dr. Faisal M. Khan, DDS, of Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental. “The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends twice a year, and there’s a reason why August is a good time to do that. Summer schedules are notoriously lax and sometimes teeth don’t get brushed as well as they should. Let us take care of any potential problems before they become bigger ones.” The next ABC Dr. Khan would like his small patients to learn is “Always Brush Carefully.” “It takes real coordination for a new tooth brusher to manage a toothbrush. Flossing, too. Kids need help with this until they’re well into grade school. And one of the best things a parent can do is model good oral hygiene. If your child sees you brushing, he or she is more likely to brush too.” And the third lesson in ABCs? “Avoid Breath mints and
by Olivia Cane Candy.” “A lot of breath mints are just candy in disguise. Tooth decay is directly linked to sugar consumption. Bacteria feed on sugar and produce acid that eats away at the structure of a tooth by depleting its calcium. There’s no upside to eating a lot of sweets.” Fortunately, there is an upside to visiting Dr. Khan and his warm, personable staff at Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental. “We mean business, but our patients have a lot of fun. Let us help you and your child with the ABCS of dental hygiene!” Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental Dr. Faisal M. Khan, DDS 832-222-TOTS (8687) 7830 W. Grand Parkway S, Suite 270, Richmond, TX 77406 www.grandparkwaypediatricdental.com
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LIFTED RIDES W
FOR ALL LIFESTYLES
ill Williams bought his first Jeep in 2007. “I’d never owned one before...I was a sports car guy. But I lived in California and wanted something that allowed me to throw my Great Dane in the backseat and go to the beach.” Will took that first Jeep and did a small lift and a tire upgrade. People noticed. “I got a ton of compliments. But what really blew me away, was its resale value. I bought it one year used for $23,000. I put about $4,000 worth of work into it and sold it five years later for $21,000. I had no idea how well Jeeps held their value!” So Will started a little side business. He bought Jeeps, outfitted and upgraded them, and then sold them on the internet. “It wasn’t long before I was making 3x my salary in Jeep sales,” says Will. “So I quit my job, moved home to Texas, and we’re building Jeeps!” “We’re not just building aggressive, overthe-top ‘macho guy’ Jeeps,” continues Will. “We also focus on developing luxurious, versatile vehicles. We have a diversified
product line which is represented best in our company motto, ‘Lifted rides for all lifestyles’... you can pick from one of our packages or build your own. A lot of our customers are housewives that just don’t want another Suburban or minivan. We build them a beautiful, one-of-a-kind, edgy vehicle with all of the comforts they’ve come to enjoy. Want all the bells, whistles and comforts of a Range Rover...you got it!” Evo Off Road builds for Jeep dealers directly and more than a dozen luxury auto dealerships. But no need to go retail, you can buy yours wholesale from Will’s shop. “90% of our builds are are in the $50,000 price range...the same price as a luxury truck or SUV. And Chrysler Capital Funding will finance 100% of the Jeep purchase and upgrades.”
When you’re ready, stop by the shop. “We’ll custom build your Jeep on paper. Then our fleet partner—AutoNation Chrysler and Jeep at US 99 and I-10— takes care of your trade-in if you have one, and that’s where your base Jeep is purchased. They deliver it to us the next day and we get to work. Each day we send you pictures of your Jeep... dramatic changes over about a five day period. You return for delivery, we open the garage doors...and watch your eyes light up. You’ll be amazed at your new toy!” Jeeps are 100% made in America and the crew at Evo is 100% United States Veterans. Evo is a family-owned and operated business. Will is in charge of sales, his wife Mercedes handles production, and his sister-in-law Ashley takes care of parts ordering. Will and Mercedes’ daughter Ariyana is at the shop everyday after school...often shooting hoops around back. “She can pretty much beat everyone in the shop at HORSE.” “I would love to show you what we do. Stop by anytime!”
Evo Off Road 844-443-8649 1810 First Oak St,, Ste. 190 Richmond, TX 77406 www.evooffroad.net
Fulshear Area Chamber of Commerce EVENTS! Calling all Cowboys and Cowgirls! It’s time to slip on the spurs and pick up the ponies to rush on over to Weston Lakes Golf Course for the 2016 Fulshear Area Chamber of Commerce Stampede of Golf! The tournament will be held on OCTOBER 10, 2016. This tournament is one of the most fun events around! With shindigs at the holes, ropin’ and ridin’ (golf carts that is), ace in the hole prizes, and more, this event promises to be better than an 8 second ride!
Win A 2016 Ford F150 Supercrew Truck From Legacy Ford Fulshear Area Chamber Of Commerce Is Selling Only 500 Raffle Tickets! For $100 (Per Raffle Ticket) You Could Win A New 2016 Legacy Ford F150 Supercrew Truck! The drawing will be held “live” at the FACC Casino Night on a date yet to be determined in February 2017. Thank you for supporting the ongoing efforts of the Fulshear Area Chamber of Commerce.
www.stampedeofgolf.com
For questions call the Fulshear Area Chamber of Commerce at 832-600-3221
Fulshear Area Chamber of Commerce Don McCoy - Executive Director ~ 832-600-3221
FRONT ROW window graphics
make a SPLASH! really made “Front Row Signs k for me!” my storefront wor hReady ac Be ~ Carol Sue of
FulshearAreaChamber.com
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12 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ August-September 2016
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Showroom: 25311 Kingsland Blvd., Ste. 130 Katy 77494
281-579-1136 www.Houston-woodfloorpros.com
YOUR
Donations
Can and Will
Help a Neighbor in Need S by Amy Sharp
ince 1980, Fort Bend Women’s Center (FBWC or Women’s Center) has been the voice for women, children and men survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in this community. Now, as the only full service emergency shelter and the only shelter assisting domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, it’s services are needed more than ever. Joy Dowell, Chief Retail Operations Officer for the Fort Bend Women’s Center, says, “Programs for the Women’s Center are funded in part by donations that are sold in the PennyWise Resale Stores. And we are thrilled to add another conveniently located donation center right here in Katy!” The FBWC PennyWise Resale Store operates off of the generosity and donations of the community, of which about 95% is used for income for FBWC life-saving programs. Not only are clients able to benefit directly from donations as they begin setting up their new lives and homes, customers receive quality benefits, too. At three shopping locations (Richmond, Stafford and Mission Bend) great merchandise and daily customer rewards can be found. “The
Pennywise stores are destination shopping for our community,” says Joy. “It’s affordable, it’s quality merchandise, and it’s fun. We have a rewards program and senior discounts...plus 50% off clothing on Wednesday and 25% off housewares on Friday. And special promos for email subscribers, too. We run it like a regular store. If you haven’t been in one of our stores, I really encourage you to come look around!” Those donations that cannot be sold on the sales floor (torn clothing, broken items, etc.) based on PennyWise quality control methods are recycled, boosting the total donation income for FBWC programs to nearly 100%. Last year approximately $100,000 worth of merchandise went directly to clients transitioning into violent-free lives, and 1300 women and children were transitioned into safety. With your help, our community can provide even more assistance. Since 100% of funds stay in our area, your gift—your donation—is a gift to a neighbor in need. The Grand Opening of the Katy Donation Center is Aug. 18th at 3pm. Stop by to learn more!
Katy Donation Center: 2721 FM 1463, Suite 800 • Mon-Sat 9-6, Sun 12-5 Drop off at any Pennywise location or call 281-344-5777 for pickup
The Fort Bend Women’s Center Hotline: 281-342-HELP (4357)
UPCLOSE Katy ~ August-September 2016 ~ 13
Expert Interior Home Design...
For FREE! by Amy Sharp
W
hen Re/Max Grand real estate agent Tim Clarkson needs help staging a house, he has one go-to person: Deborah Bautista, owner of Tista’s Fine Furniture & Mattresses right here in Katy. “Deborah can look at a home and in minutes know what it needs...she knows how to spruce it up to make it look good. She brings in furniture for unoccupied homes, and in occupied homes is able to rearrange the furniture and bring in a few accent pieces to make it flow better...which is huge when trying to sell a house. She has been staging homes for me since I got into this business. I can’t even count how many she’s done over the years. Even when it’s just rearranging furniture, her work is excellent.” So excellent, that Tim’s spent the last two years using Deborah’s expertise to decorate and furnish his own home. “She’s done every room except the kids’ rooms,” says Tim. “She just ‘gets’ what you want and what you like...and is able to provide that with the wide range of styles she carries in the store. It’s beautiful furniture and pieces at really great prices. We entertain in our home frequently and always receive compliments on its beauty.” Want Deborah to bring her interior design magic to your home? That’s Deborah’s passion...and it’s free of charge! “The needs and wants of my clients are absolutely my top priority,” explains Deborah. “My job is to take your dream and make it a reality. I will develop a functional and attractive design solution that suits the needs of your home and your family.” And with that 14 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ August-September 2016
vision in mind, you can call to schedule a free in-home consultation with Deborah, which will include interior painting ideas, window treatments, art, mirrors, and rugs. “At Tista’s Fine Furniture we have over 160 vendors, so I know we can get the exact items to fit your personality.” And with styles ranging from Texas Hill Country, Old World, Urban Chic, Traditional and Transitional, Tista’s Fine Furniture & Mattresses not only has a wide vocabulary of home decor looks, it’s also priced 30% lower than any competitor. So whether you need a few statement pieces, or a complete makeover, Tista’s has you covered. “Our secret is the best quality at the best price,” says Deborah. “That’s how we guarantee happy clients.” “I send people to Deborah and Tista’s all the time,” says Tim. “Because I know she will take care of them. Especially my clients that just bought a new house and want new stuff for their new home. Deborah can make that house look like a model home...I’ve seen her do it over and over again!”
TISTA’S FINE FURNITURE & MATTRESSES
281-347-5289 5315 Hwy Blvd., Katy, TX 77494 (Behind Texas Tradition) www.tistashome.com
www.upclosemagazine.com
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