November 2017
Magazine
LIFE-SAVING CARDIAC CARE
LIFE-SAVING
Dr. Kabir Rezvankhoo
Dr. Cullen Hebert
Paul Haines, Survivor
Dr. Darrell Alley
Collaboration and teamwork are key to saving cardiac patients at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital
W
hen Paul Haines went to work that fateful day in August 2016, the 36 year old had no idea he would need the lifesaving team of experts at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, but they were ready for him.
While at his job in Sugar Land, Haines suffered a serious cardiac emergency – what Houston Methodist Sugar Land physician Cullen Hebert, M.D., calls a “sudden death episode.” He was revived by paramedics but never regained consciousness. When he arrived at Houston Methodist Sugar Land, he was treated by one of the hospital’s full-time intensivists, also known as critical care specialists, Darrell Alley, M.D., with therapeutic hypothermia, the deliberate cooling of his internal body temperature, to counteract the brain-destroying impacts of cardiac arrest.
That quick response, and three weeks of ongoing, roundthe-clock care from a team of Houston Methodist Sugar Land specialists, nurses and staff, not only saved Haines’ life, but also enabled him to leave the hospital with normal neurological function. “Most people don’t realize how rare a full recovery like that is,” said Hebert, the hospital’s lead intensivist. “Roughly 450,000 Americans have an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest every year, and only a third of those that survive have minimal or no neurological deficits. But the hypothermia protocol we used on Mr. Haines, along with the enhanced teamwork of our staff, is helping us improve those statistics.” Each year, roughly 40,000 cardiac arrest patients are treated with therapeutic hypothermia nationwide; 32 percent survive, with nearly 50 percent of those suffering no permanent neurological damage.
Celebrating a Decade of Excellence in Heart & Vascular Care In April 2007, physicians at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital performed the first-ever open heart surgery in Fort Bend County. That groundbreaking procedure kicked off a decade of unparalleled achievement in providing the most advanced cardiac care, close to home.
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When you’re in need, count on our: • State-of-the-art Heart & Vascular Center • 24/7 interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery services • Nationally accredited chest pain center In a cardiac emergency, there’s only one place you need to be — Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.
CARDIAC CARE Using cold to slow the body When a patient suffers cardiac arrest, biological mechanisms in the brain continue long after the heart is restarted. Those changes cause the body to release chemicals that actually kill brain cells, continually worsening neurological function even as the patient’s heart is recovering. Therapeutic hypothermia slows down body functions and reduces both cell death and brain inflammation, which can make a significant difference in the amount of neurological damage suffered. Over time, as the risk of brain function damage lessens, the body is slowly warmed back to normal temperatures. That technique is just one of the life-saving measures that Houston Methodist Sugar Land employs with cardiac patients. Just as important is a fully collaborative approach that involves physicians and staff across a wide range of specialties working together to ensure that each patient is receiving proper round-the-clock care. “In complex cases such as these, communication is the key,” said intensivist Kabir Rezvankhoo, M.D., another physician involved in Haines treatment. “We’ve worked hard to develop channels of communication that ensure information flows all ways, from the physician to the nursing and ancillary staff and back again. When you are dealing with a patient who has suffered cardiac arrest, there are all kinds of complications due to the combination of low blood pressure and the lack of oxygen that organs receive. The more perspectives and insight we can get from our team throughout the patient’s stay here, the better.”
More than the heart Haines’ treatment is an example of the difficulty involved in treating cardiac patients even after normal heart function is restored. “There were eight different physicians from a broad spectrum of specialties involved in this case, along with a whole team of nurses, respiratory, physical and occupational therapists; nutritionists; pharmacists and more,” said Alley. “That’s not unusual, but it’s mind-boggling to people who aren’t familiar with the amount of coordination and communication that cardiac patients require.”
Leading medicine in Fort Bend Houston Methodist’s Heart & Vascular Center at Sugar Land has achieved an impressive list of Fort Bend “firsts” throughout its 10 year history: the first carotid artery stent procedure; the first rotational atherectomy surgery; the first minimally invasive coronary artery bypass grafting procedure; the first minimally invasive aortic valve replacement; and the first hybrid coronary intervention. In 2014, the hospital was among the first in Texas to offer patients a new implantable cardiac monitor. The hospital’s significant investment in technology has supported these innovations. For example, in 2014, Houston Methodist Sugar Land opened a new hybrid operating room – the first in the U.S. – with an advanced operating table that was integrated with a C-arm robotic system for angiography to enable physicians to quickly transition patients to cardiac surgery if necessary.
Call 9-1-1
immediately if you experience any of the following:
• Chest pain or pressure (may radiate down arm) • Shortness of breath • Nausea, vomiting and/or severe indigestion • Breaking out in a cold sweat Most recently, Houston Methodist Sugar Land became the first hospital in Fort Bend to utilize the life-saving Impella CP external heart assist device to improve blood flow and minimize organ damage during complex cardiac cases. Houston Methodist Sugar Land’s intensivist program, which puts critical care and other specially-trained physicians in the ICU 24/7, is another significant investment in care that makes a measurable difference in patient outcomes. Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is the only hospital in the Fort Bend area to provide 24/7 interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery services. “Today when a patient is on the way to the hospital after suffering a cardiac arrest, we are alerted by paramedics and we literally meet the patient in the ER, ready to use all our resources to save his or her life and, in the process, minimize the long-term damage they may incur,” said Rezvankhoo. “It takes a full team working together who are committed to the best possible outcome for that patient, and everyone plays a critical role.” For more information about Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, visit houstonmethodist.org/sugarland or call 281.542.3492 for a doctor in your area. To see Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s world-class team of cardiologists, surgeons, specialists and support staff in action, visit bit.ly/heartvideo-sl.
16655 Southwest Fwy. Sugar Land, TX 77479 houstonmethodist.org/sugarland
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J
oseph Novajosky has been fortunate, he says that he has experienced good health all of his life. Still very active at 74, he enjoys working in his garden, various projects around his house, and helping his neighbors. He says, “It keeps me young.” Earlier this year, Joseph noticed some swelling in his lower legs that would not go away. He consulted his primary physician and when medication did not improve the situation, she referred him to Dr. Ulises Baltazar. Dr. 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 in his field. Board-certified 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.
“I never felt rushed or hurried.”
In Good
Hands
The first time Joseph met Dr. Baltazar he knew he was in good hands. He says, “Dr. Baltazar is a top notch guy. He has a great bedside manner. He took the time to listen to me and he thoroughly explained each step in my treatment plan. His staff is fantastic too...I never felt rushed or hurried.” After diagnosing Joseph’s lymphedema, Dr. Baltazar explained the multi-step treatment to Joseph. First they would address the venous insufficiency in his right leg with mechanochemical ablation (MOCA). Then they would deal with the swelling with complete decongestive therapy (CDT) that included manual lymphatic drainage, a gentle type of skin massage that encourages the extra lymph fluid to move away from the swollen area so it can drain normally. Dr. Baltazar also prescribed a pneumatic pump with a customized sleeve that gently compresses the leg, causing excess fluid to move up the leg and into the lymph system. Additionally, Joseph was encouraged to wear compression stockings to keep the fluid from collecting in his lower extremities. Dr. Baltazar says, “For the best results in managing lymphedema, the patient needs to be committed and carefully follow instructions in order to get better. Lymphedema management is a team effort and active patient participation is the key to a successful team.” Joseph and his wife have joined forces with Dr. Baltazar and his staff to create their own lymphedema management team. If you would like Dr. Baltazar and his staff to be a part of your lymphedema management team, call today. You’ll be in good hands.
by Sara Adams
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 ~ November 2017
Confidence Feels Good So why not look the way you feel? Remember, plastic surgery at its best is never noticed as “plastic surgery”. It just leaves you looking more refreshed, youthful and natural. When you’re ready to rejuvenate your look, call the cosmetic surgery team women and men have come to trust. Their combined expertise means you’re in the best of hands.
• Eyes • Brow • Face • Neck • Nose • Breasts • Liposuction • Tummy Tuck • Injectables • Lasers • Skin Care • Tattoo Removal The staff at Sugar Land Face and Body Plastic Surgery is proud to announce that we are expanding into Houston Dermatology and Plastic Surgery! To improve patient experience, we have also added two new physicians to the team: Dermatologist Dr. Filiberto Cedeno Laurent and Plastic Surgeon Dr. Olga Bachilo. With a multitude of services available, including both a variety of aesthetic and surgical procedures all under one roof, Houston Dermatology and Plastic Surgery has become the “go to” for beauty. “From consult to surgery, our patients get everything they need here in one place,” says Dr. Humble. “Rejuvenation is about making your vision of yourself a reality, so you can enjoy life to the fullest, and we are thrilled that we are able to help patients achieve their goals beautifully. For me, that’s the ultimate reward: a happy, rejuvenated patient.”
Before and After Photos available by visiting www.beautybecomesyou.com Houston Dermatology and Plastic Surgery (formerly Sugar Land Face & Body Plastic Surgery) ~ 281-313-0555 16926 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77479 | Now in Katy! ~ 832-913-1751 ~ 3030 South Mason Rd, Katy, Texas 77450
UPCLOSE ~ November 2017 ~ 5
November 2017
Founder and Publisher Gina Pizzini
Writers Olivia Cane Marie Page Donna Reed Amy Sharp
Business Editor Amy Sharp
Wine List Reinvented!
Layout and Design Night Sky Creative
Photography J. Thomas “Jay” Ford
Account Executives Sara Adams Sharon Ballint Dior Burns Sarah Reno
Accounting Kaitlin Ballint Editor Gina Pizzini gina@upclosemagazine.com
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.
To read an issue online:
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As BIG as
TEXAS
Veritas Steak and Seafood—your premier location for fine dining close to home—is excited to introduce an all-new and extensive wine list! Owner Kevin Rios says, “With over 300 wines carefully selected from all over the world, we have the best wine list in the area at the best possible prices!” With these prices, there’s no need to wait for a special occasion to celebrate! Veritas is renowned for its seasonal menu offering the finest and freshest ingredients available, including USDA Prime Beef, fresh seafood brought in daily, and their popular pasta made in-house daily. Pair your favorite entree with just the right wine at just the right price and it’s perfect for dinner after work, date night or an evening out with friends!
READY FOR THE HOLIDAYS?
Veritas is open Thanksgiving Day 11am-3pm offering a traditional Thanksgiving meal. And book your private holiday party now...space is filling up quickly! Veritas Steak and Seafood ~ 281-491-2901 1550 Lake Pointe Parkway, Suite 500, Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.veritassteakandseafood.com
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by Trusted homeowners
everywhere! Top 2 Bottom Inspections 281-565-4677 www.texasinspectors.net
BUGCO Pest Control 281-240-2157 www.bugco.org 9720 Harlem Road #B3, Richmond, TX 77407
Honesty. Integrity.
Dependability. by Amy Sharp
W
hether you have a busy, activity-filled holiday or plan to relax and enjoy a lazy holiday, nothing changes the course of your day or week faster than a plumbing emergency. With water everywhere, it’s a moment of panic and you need the right guys to fix the problem quickly and correctly. Who do you call? The team you’ve seen around town...Alan’s Plumbing! Serving the residents of Fort Bend County for nearly 20 years, Alan’s Plumbing is a family-owned and operated business that really cares about their customers. Owner and master plumber Alan Burkhalter, along with his brother Chris, believes in honesty, integrity, dependability, and quality workmanship. These values are the cornerstone on which they built their business and are the secret of their years of success!
Your Alan’s Plumbing experience starts with that initial, possibly panicky, phone call…where you’ll be greeted by Alan’s wife Jennifer. She’ll take the time to listen to your problem, provide quotes where possible, and most importantly provide you with a time frame that you can count on. And when these guys show up, the job is done right! All of Alan’s licensed plumbers are fast, friendly, and meticulous experts in their trade…a lineup that now includes talented journeyman licensed plumbers Jeff Johnson and Alan’s sons Beau and Luke, and apprentices Jaime and Trevor along with Alan’s other son Jake. Not only is the problem fixed quickly and correctly, Alan’s crews also take the time to educate you on how to prevent future catastrophes. And as part of their hallmark courtesy and cleanliness, when they
leave…any mess leaves with them! The family at Alan’s Plumbing is committed to exceptional plumbing services at reasonable prices. Their customer service is second to none…they understand that your time is valuable, and their professionals are dedicated to making sure that your plumbing needs are taken care of as efficiently as possible and to your complete satisfaction. At Alan’s Plumbing, they promise to treat you and your family or business as if you were a member of their own! For all your plumbing problems, call the family team you’ve seen around town...they’re always here to help you! Alan’s Plumbing
281-261-1064 License M-18995
WWW.ALANS.PLUMBING www.upclosemagazine.com
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F CUS
Focus on Your Blessings... Not Your Pain!
by Marie Page
A
re you ready for Thanksgiving? With your guest list, your grocery list, and your to-do list growing longer every day, you can’t afford to let anything cloud your mind. Local pharmacist Dr. Lance Campbell, Pharm.D, R.Ph says, “The holidays are hard enough without dealing with pain...or the serious effects of pain medication. At Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy, we offer a variety of solutions so you can focus on your family and enjoy your holidays to the fullest!” “I know more and more patients are afraid to seek help because of the stigma and side effects associated with narcotic pain medications,” continues Dr. Campbell. “But that doesn’t mean you have to suffer in silence. We can compound creams that deliver pain relief to the specific area where you need it most, without nausea, mental impairment, or social stigma! These pain-relief creams are almost one hundred percent covered by insurance. We also offer auto-refills and free shipping...but we’re always happy to have you stop by, get to know us, and talk to us about your concerns!” When you really think about it, we all enjoy countless everyday blessings––family, health, and our freedom.
Legally, you have the freedom to choose where you will get the medication prescribed by your doctor...so why not choose the pharmacy that combines convenience and personal attention? Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy accepts major prescription and insurance plans for commercially available medications and specially compounded medications. More importantly, they look out for you as if you were a member of their own family. Dr. Campbell says, “We promise to be alert to the signs of over or under medication in you and your family Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy members. If we see any red flags, “If our staff can’t make it… we’ll contact your doctor. Working then you probably don’t need it!” closely with our patients means we can deliver the personal service that’s Sugar Land • 281-980-2555 crucial for your health!” 4760 Sweetwater Blvd. Suite 103 “Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Campbell’s Compounding Houston • 713-668-4833 Pharmacy. Caring for you is one of 6603 Kirby Dr., Houston, TX 77005 our greatest blessings!” www.campbellscompounding.com
$5 OFF YOUR FIRST ONLINE ORDER Requires a minimum purchase of $25 Not valid with any other offer.
Online Coupon Code: online14
$5 OFF 8 ~ UPCLOSE ~ November 2017
You Can’t Buy Love... But You Can Rescue It!
Adopt T
You too can rescue love today! For more information about adoptions or pet care, visit: Fort Bend County Animal Services 1210 Blume Road Rosenberg, TX 77471 281-342-1512
by Amy Sharp
hinking of adding a pet to your family? Classic Chevy Sugar Land and General Manager Jeff Sebastian remind you that there are a variety of wonderful pets at our local community shelters just waiting for a good home like yours. “Rescue is our favorite breed!” says Jeff. The Sebastian family—Jeff, Tiffany, Grayson, Alivia and Arica—count two rescue dogs among their family members. “Six or seven years ago, we volunteered to foster Buddy,” says Tiffany. “Next thing we knew, we were adopting him. Hunter came to us about four years ago. Just skin and bones. He was afraid to go in a door...any door. The vet said he probably had been hit or kicked for trying to go inside. He still puts the brakes on near doors, but he is doing so much better. We love that we were given the opportunity to give these two a second chance after their difficult start in life.” The Sebastian kids add, “They have filled our home and hearts with love we didn’t even know we were missing.”
Missouri City Animal Control 3849 Cartwright Rd Missouri City, TX 77459-2443 281-403-8707 Rosenberg Animal Control 1207 Blume Rd Rosenberg, TX 77471-4071 832-595-3490 Sugar Land Animal Services 101 Gillingham Ln Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-275-2364 City of Stafford Animal Control 2702 S Main St Stafford, TX 77477-5599 281-261-3950
281-491-9000 www.classicchevysugarland.com
SHOP FORT BEND
13115 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478
?
ASK MARGIE
The Lawyer Who Cares THIS MONTH’S TOPIC:
He Saw the Sign
by Amy Sharp arthik and Sapna Kashyap postponed putting together their wills for a long time. “We just didn’t think it was essential,” says Karthik. “But fellow BNI member Margie Connolly changed our minds. Everyone needs a will...because you never know what’s going to happen.” The Kashyaps have one child named Amogh. They also own a business: Dream Signs and Graphics. Karthik says, “We are not from the United States, and weren’t sure of the laws. Margie was very educational throughout the process. She explained everything we needed to know. Our biggest scare was if we passed on, who would take care of our estate. And we absolutely had to make sure Amogh was taken care of. We needed to sort things out and be prepared...unwind our threads in compliance with the law. A will ensures our wishes are carried out exactly. Our case was a bit complex...we own property both here and in
India. Margie was able to make recommendations for our situation. She also gave us time when we needed time to make sure our trusted sources were aware of what we were doing.” Margie is an experienced family law and estate planning attorney. She was admitted to the Kentucky Bar in 1986 and the Texas Bar in 2013. She’s also an extremely active member of our community, and has helped numerous Fort Bend families prepare for the future. Karthik and Sapna created Dream Signs and Graphics after a frustrating trip to California. They couldn’t find their rental car company...it was located inside a hotel. There were no signs or directions. Realizing the importance of signage, their company creates graphics and every kind of sign imaginable. Karthik says, “We help convey messages in the most efficient and concise manner.” A sign is a picture worth a thousand words. A will is your only word after you leave this world. Can Margie help create yours?
K
Margaret McCullough Connolly, PLLC
281-433-9488 • 346-309-4236 4610 Sweetwater, Suite 200, Sugar Land, Tx 77479 mmconnollylaw@gmail.com • www.mmconnollylaw.com
Use it or lose it! dental benefits
Use your to maintain your oral health and reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
Schedule your dental appointment today!
W
ould you rent a beachfront condo in a tropical place and never go there? Would you rent a car and leave it in the driveway or garage to collect dust? Would you fill your fridge with food and let it all expire? Silly questions, right? So, why do so many people pay for dental care all year they never end up using? “Many insurance policies run on a calendar year instead of a fiscal one,” says Dr. Thomas
Lomonte, D.D.S. of Stafford. “That means the slate gets wiped clean on January 1st. On that day, three very important things may happen: 1) Your “yearly maximum” benefits reset--the $200-$1000 or more to which you have access will probably NOT roll over. That is money you will never see again. 2) Your deductible will reset. If you have paid this deductible this year, you’re in the clear until New Year’s day! 3) January 1st is a popular day for fee increases.
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Today’s $50 co-pay may be next year’s $60-75. The point is, you should be benefiting from the services for which you are already paying a monthly premium.” Even if you set aside the financial reasons for a moment, it’s just smart thinking to go to the dentist before the end of the year. A basic cleaning and checkup can alert your dentist to any problems before they get out of hand. Filling today’s minor cavity can avoid needing an expensive root canal six months or a year from now. Thank goodness your neighborhood dentist, Dr. Lomonte, is ready to take your end-ofthe-year appointment calls. A proud native Texan, Dr. Lomonte grew up in Beaumont, TX, got his undergraduate degree from Lamar University and his D.D.S. from the University of Texas Dental Branch in Houston. Generations of Fort Bend families have been trusting Dr. Lomonte with their smiles--from kids to moms and dads to grandparents--since 1982. Worried about finding the time to see him? “Ask yourself,” says Dr. Lomonte, “if you can really afford to throw that money away? Take advantage of your benefits and protect your smile!”
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
Why Football
Is A Lot Like
It’s Hard To Stop A Trane
An Annual Furnace Inspection
A
by Olivia Cane ll summer you’ve been waiting for it. You’ve had misty-eyed fantasies about it. At work, at home, with friends and with strangers, you discussed it and made feverish predictions about when it might arrive. Now it’s here. Are
you ready? It’s finally cold enough to turn on the furnace! And here you thought we were talking about football. Yet before you start celebrating in the end zone—or turning on your furnace—it might be a good idea to call in special teams. In this case...Brian Jackson of Jackson Air & Heat. “In honor of football season, we call it the TEXANS Equation,” says Brian. “Because it’s easy to remember and because here at Jackson Air & Heat we are proud sponsors of the Houston Texans.” The six reasons you need to have your furnace inspected before you turn it on are:
T: The longer you put off having your annual inspection done, the more likely there will be expensive repairs. And nobody wants that. E: Efficiency is compromised when dust and
dirt settle on moving parts. Your furnace has had a whole summer to accumulate dust. X: Exchangers in your furnace can crack, which release deadly carbon monoxide into your house. You won’t know it because carbon monoxide is odorless. In addition to installing carbon monoxide detectors outside every bedroom, the best thing you can do is have a qualified professional inspect your furnace. A: Air filters are an essential part of a wellmaintained furnace. During our inspection, we either clean or replace all existing filters. N: Negating a warranty is no joke. Some manufacturers require their furnace owners to maintain a regular maintenance schedule—and a verified record of it. Don’t leave yourself vulnerable. S: Schedule your furnace inspection now before it gets too cold and we’re booked solid with homeowners who are not as far ahead of the game as you are! During the holidays when everybody’s home, you can expect a lot of traffic through your house. And sometimes you’ll be switching from heat to air conditioning within the span of a few hours.
If it’s time for a new air conditioner, Jackson Air & Heat is the oldest Trane dealer in Sugar Land. With instant manufacturer’s rebates or 0% financing, right now is also a great time to take advantage of off-season prices on all new variable-speed Trane systems. So if you want to watch your holiday football games without having to bundle up, shivering, on the couch—your fingers too cold to even operate a remote control—you’d better call Jackson Air & Heat to schedule your appointment. As Brian says, “Keeping you comfortable is my business!”
Jackson Air and Heat, Inc. Sugar Land’s Oldest Independent Trane Dealer License #TACLB29585 281-301-1403
PROUD SPONSOR OF THE HOUSTON TEXANS
www.LicenseToChill.us UPCLOSE ~ November 2017
New Carpet. New Pet. No Problems!
A
by Donna Reed
my Barta and her family couldn’t be happier with the service and new flooring provided by locally owned Lone Star Floors. “Mohamed Naser (one of the owners) was incredible,” says Amy. “He researched every carpet we were looking at, even getting samples from other stores when his store didn’t have it in stock. He was so warm and caring. Our two and four-year-old kids were running around like crazy in the store. While we looked at samples, Mohamed had them measuring things with measuring tape. My daughters wanted to hug him every time they saw him!” Lone Star Floors completed the Barta’s carpeting in one day. “And it was a lot of carpet!” says Amy. “A total of five rooms: four bedrooms, one upstairs gameroom, plus the stairs. They were an amazing crew. They started at 9am and were done by 4pm...just crazy fast!” After the carpet was installed, Amy decided to go ahead and replace the tile in her home as well. “The tile was also done in one day. There was minimal dust, and everything was super clean after installing tile in two full baths, one half bath and the laundry room.” The family is enjoying their new floors, and also a new addition to the family! “I belong to an animal rescue group, and only recently wanted to foster a dog. It went so well that I went from fostering her
Get More from to adopting her in about five hours!” laughs Amy. Any worries about new carpeting and a new pet? “Our new pet Nori is more potty-trained than our two-year-old! We’re not worried!” Everything moves fast in the Barta home, from carpet installation to pet adoption. The fast and friendly service provided by Lone Star Floors has given their house a fresh makeover. Amy says, “Going to a flooring store where the people are as informed and helpful as everyone at Lone Star Floors is the best way to make all of your flooring choices!” Lone Star Floors ~ 3 Locations 281-564-1345• 10009 Highway 6 South, Sugar Land, TX 873 South Mason Rd. #300, Katy, TX 281-398-2319 24627 I-45 North Suite # A, The Woodlands/Spring, Texas 832-813-0813 www.lonestarfloors.com
IT’S ALL IN THE RECOVERY Sabrina Cox and her husband Stephen are true athletes. Trail races (also called trail running) is their sport of choice. “We are part of an organization called ‘Trail Races Over Texas.’ We run marathons and races at state parks on trails instead of cement...so it’s been easier on our bodies,” Sabrina says laughing. While Sabrina admits she has always worked out, she, unlike her husband Stephen, is truly “new to the sport of trail racing.” Staying in shape is key for both the newbie and the experienced trail racer. So is recovery. Sabrina and Stephen were familiar with cryotherapy. When they saw the new iCRYO location in Sugar Land, they visited as soon as it opened. Cryotherapy is a treatment that uses cold temperatures to reduce inflammation. The results have been amazing! “We run a couple of times a week. Before going to iCRYO, we had sore muscles for days. The full body cryotherapy immersion and the NormaTec compression therapy speed up our recovery process...so we can run more often. Plus, the staff is so nice. We love all of them...they are so friendly and informative. Since a cryotherapy session is so cold initially, they talk to you the whole time to keep your mind off what’s going on!” Today Sabrina is training for a marathon in December at Brazos Bend State Park. She will do the standard 26.2 mile run, and Stephen will run a 50 mile marathon. Count on them visiting iCRYO both before and after that race. “I do the spot treatment and NormaTec compression therapy, because there’s a place in my leg that tends to bother me after longer distances. After six to seven minutes, I feel immediate improvement. I have more range of motion, and can put a lot more pressure on my leg. Stephen does the
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BY DONNA REED whole body package...he goes to iCRYO every single day!” iCRYO Sugar Land is locally owned by Joseph Uduma. In addition to whole body and NormaTec compression therapy, they offer localized cryotherapy, cryo facials, an infrared sauna, and even perfectly-portioned meals, a salad bar and smoothies. Sabrina says, “I’ve been to quite a few places like this, but iCRYO is the best!”
iCRYO Sugar Land 832-471-6842 19875 Southwest Fwy #140 Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.icryo.com
THE ONE TO SEE
“There’s really
W
NO question as to why people by Amy Sharp
hen Chuck Jewell and his wife moved to the area from Johnstown, PA, they were on the lookout for new doctors. Chuck says, “When we needed an eye doctor, Dr. Tom Arnold at Today’s Vision Sugar Land came highly recommended from someone my wife knew. That was more than ten years ago. Dr. Arnold has been our eye doctor ever since!” So what makes someone keep going back after ten years? “Dr. Arnold is good at what he does,” says Chuck. “He knows his stuff and pays great attention to detail. At one of my visits, Dr. Arnold told me, ‘Hey, you know you’re starting to get cataracts in both eyes. We should do something sooner rather than later.’ I actually did let it go for a couple of years. But when the cataracts started to affect my vision, Dr. Arnold suggested a specialist and we got my cataract surgery done. Same deal when I had retinal detachment. I was
Dr. Tom Arnold
lying in bed one night and saw a black area in the right part of my right eye. It scared me. Dr. Arnold got me in the next day—a Thursday. He took one look and told me I had retinal detachment. I had an appointment with a retinal specialist the following day (Friday), and I was in
keep going back!” surgery Monday morning.” Dr. Arnold has been practicing optometry at this same location since 1992. He is committed to investing in the newest technology, and has a reputation for having an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. Chuck says, “Without Dr. Arnold’s expertise and attention to detail, who knows how long my retinal detachment would have gone on. Thanks to his quick diagnosis, I’m back to 20/20 in my right eye.” The philosophy at Today’s Vision Sugar Land is personalized care based on value. “Today, Dr. Arnold and I are good friends,”
www.upclosemagazine.com
says Chuck. “But even in the early years, if I stopped in to grab a pair of sunglasses and Dr. Arnold saw me, he would greet me and call me by name. He didn’t need a chart to look up my name. His staff is just as great. Today’s Vision Sugar Land is a happy and friendly place that’s been around a long time. There’s really no question as to why people keep going back!” Today’s Vision Sugar Land 281-242-2020 15337 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.2020sugarland.com UPCLOSE ~ November 2017 ~ 13
Imelda’s Insight Once the turkey’s out of the oven and onto a serving platter, fill the roasting pan with soapy water. Put it back in the oven and let it soak at 250 degrees while you and your guests enjoy the meal. When you’re ready for kitchen cleanup, the baked-on juices from the turkey and stuffing will be softened up and easy to rinse off. Happy Thanksgiving!
Give Yourself a Hostess Gift W
by Marie Page
hen the house is sparkling and the guests arrive bearing flowers and wine, everyone’s ready for a good time. Take the stress out of party prep by giving yourself the best hostess gift ever...a home cleaning by Mahoney’s House Cleaning Services. Owner Imelda Mahoney says, “We offer regularly scheduled cleanings and special help for special occasions too. We want you to enjoy hosting friends and family this holiday season...so leave the cleaning to us!” Imelda started cleaning houses when her children were little. It was the perfect job, she could be with her kids both before and after
school. Imelda launched her company in 2007. Today her daughter Casandra helps her run the business. Casandra says, “She actually started with a few ladies on our street, and another neighbor watched all the kids. It was family helping family. Even as Mom added employees...if they didn’t have a place to leave their kids or their own sitter was sick, they knew our neighbor would pitch in.” Fully bonded and insured, with Mahoney’s House Cleaning Services all of the “extras” you pay for with other services—blinds, baseboards, ceiling fans, etc.—are standard. “We always go above and beyond to exceed your
expectations,” says Casandra. “We guarantee our services and work hard to make sure our clients feel they have chosen the best company to clean their house.” If you’re preparing for Thanksgiving festivities, let the ladies at Mahoney’s give you a helping hand. They’ll make your house look as fabulous as the feast itself! Then spread the joy the next time you’re a guest. Instead of giving another bottle of wine to share at the party, give the gift of a cleaning by Mahoney’s. Imelda says, “We want you to be thankful for your home, your family, and the extra time you’ll enjoy when you leave the cleaning to us!”
Mahoney’s House Cleaning Services • 281-777-1526 mahoneyshousecleaning@yahoo.com • www.mahoneyshousecleaningservices.com 14 ~ UPCLOSE ~ November 2017
www.upclosemagazine.com
A Beautiful New Kitchen and Flooring In Less Than Three Weeks! by Marie Page
P
eggy Haase and her family have lived in their home for 20 years. Peggy says, “With our kids now in college, we will probably downsize in three to five years. Our kitchen really needed updating. We decided to get it done now, so we can enjoy it!” A friend of Peggy’s had remodeling work done by Teri Gilberg (better known as ‘The Re-Modelista’). “We were impressed by her work,” says Peggy. “We had also seen her in local magazines, and she has great ratings on Angie’s List.” Peggy contacted one other contractor for a bid in addition to The Re-Modelista. A “must-have” in Peggy’s new kitchen was removing a pony wall peninsula and putting in an island. Peggy says, “Not only was the other contractor’s bid significantly higher than Teri’s, he completely excluded the island. His bid included ‘shoring up’ the pony wall that I wanted to get rid of! Maybe he forgot my wishes?” The decision was easy. Peggy chose The Re-Modelista to do the work. In this remodel, the tile in the kitchen, foyer, entryway and laundry room would all be replaced. The kitchen would receive new drawers and cabinets, new countertops and backsplash, and new lighting. And of course, the pony wall would be replaced with an island. “I had a general idea of what I wanted,” says Peggy. “But putting colors together and design is not my forte. Teri was very helpful. She went shopping with me quite a few times. She let me mull things over when I just wasn’t sure, and she was helpful and patient when I changed my mind three times. She also gave me a list of people she recommended for different things that was very helpful. When I decided
what countertops I wanted, she secured them for me.” The bid for Peggy’s renovation was three weeks. “That’s 600 square feet of tile,” says Peggy. “Plus the kitchen! The crews were here everyday, all day. Seven days the first week and six days the second week. Teri came over and checked in twice a day. When I had questions, she followed up and got back with me quickly. The work was finished in two and a half weeks.” And the finished product? “It’s awesome and we love it. It’s honestly better than we ever expected! We are still working on getting everything back in the cabinets, but we are really enjoying the kitchen. I very highly recommend Teri. She’s great!”
Re-Modelista: Your Home Renovation Specialist Specializes in Kitchen and Bath Remodels “She Gets the Job Done!” 832-535-2501 • cell: 832-731-3191 www.theremodelista.com
www.upclosemagazine.com
UPCLOSE ~ November 2017 ~ 15
r e t h g i r B Shining in Sugar Land
16 ~ UPCLOSE ~ November 2017
by Amy Sharp
I
magine if you could do it all in one store? Purchase designer clothing and shoes for the entire family, get new eyeglasses, be fitted for a pair of running shoes, and enjoy a cup of coffee while you’re doing it? Our very own First Colony Mall Macy’s just underwent a major overhaul...and you won’t believe the changes! Macy’s VP and Store Manager Elwyn Mapps says, “The first full service Starbucks in the mall is inside of Macy’s, as well as LensCrafters and Finish Line Sports. We want to better serve the needs of our customers. It’s first class service right here in Sugar Land!” Not sure where to start? Schedule an appointment online with a “MyStylist,” Macy’s personal shopper. This is an all-encompassing stylist program. Whether you need an outfit for a big event, or just want to walk the store with the stylist and refresh your wardrobe, you’ll be taken care of. The selection at Macy’s is fresh and full of ideas and inspiration, including Macy’s exclusives DKNY, Tommy Hilfiger and INC. Men and women alike can be fitted head to toe (including shoes, accessories and jewelry) with career wear, casual wear, activewear, or whatever “wear” you happen to need. In addition to personal styling, you’ll enjoy a private fitting room and private cash register...all free of charge. Personal shopping services can also include assistance with housewares and bed ensembles. Need a fresh face to complement your fresh new wardrobe? Schedule a complimentary makeover and consultation. Elwyn says, “Our cosmetics department
The All Star Team at Macy’s Sugar Land
is no longer product driven. All beauty advisors are cross-trained on all products. With more consulting stations and more testing stations, we are focused on helping you find exactly what you need!” And once you’re in the Macy’s “MyClient” system, you’ll receive invites to special artistry events and giveaways. What else? The list is endless! The furniture area has been expanded to include a more modern assortment. The mattress selection has doubled. And for the shopper that enjoys the thrill of the hunt, you must visit Macy’s Backstage on the second level. Here you’ll find oneof-a-kind deals on clothing, handbags, toys, beauty, home decor...everything. Elwyn says, “We are the only Macy’s Backstage in Houston. These are the greatest bargains and deals in the store!” They’ve rolled out new carpet and updated the lighting. The women’s restroom and the fitting rooms have been completely renovated. A brand new Customer Service desk takes care of all needs and questions. Macy’s is truly shining brighter in Sugar Land. Drop in, grab your favorite drink at the in-store Starbucks...and check it out today!
Macy’s First Colony Mall 281-243-7600 16511 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land, TX 77478
l.macys.com/sugar-land-tx
Introducing An UpClose Look
SpecialNeeds at
S
ince 1995, UpClose Magazine has been your behind the scenes look at the people behind our locally-owned businesses. Inspired by two area moms, sisters Dior Burns and Tiffany Nachefski, this new section—An UpClose Look at Special Needs—will be dedicated entirely to businesses that provide services to children with special needs. Both of these Clements graduates are raising kids with special needs. Each has pursued a path to help other parents in situations like their own. Dior is the founder of the nonprofit organization Reach For Kids (www.reachforkids.com). She says, “When my son Cameron was nine months old, without warning he started having 20 seizures/day. We did everything under the sun to help him...the Mayo Clinic, ECI, a gamut of doctors and many therapists. Today he has been seizure-free for six years. He has a diagnosis of autism and ADHD. I believe there is a reason we went through this journey. We need to use our experience to help someone else. Most special needs moms are just trying to survive the day...there isn’t time to research resources. Reach For Kids is a onestop-shop to find those resources!”
18 ~ UPCLOSE ~ November 2017
Tiffany’s son Wyatt has severe, nonverbal Autism, Epilepsy, and also suffers from Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis (a rare type of allergic condition) that makes him frequently get sick to his stomach. When Tiffany couldn’t find a weighted blanket that she could wash frequently, she made one herself. This and other improved weighted sensory products blossomed into her small business: Wyatt’s Weighted Wonderland (www.TryMyBlanket.com). Tiffany says, “My blankets are made with machine-washable duvet covers and fully customized to the individual— including weight, fabric and optional aromatherapy. Want the blanket to feature Thomas the Train in a special size? We can make it!” There are many businesses like these that accommodate kids with special needs. “An UpClose Look at Special Needs” will provide you with behind the scenes looks at: What dentist should we see? Can I take my special needs daughter to dance class? Who can I see locally for therapy? And if you know of a local business that should be spotlighted in this section, contact UpClose Magazine at gina@upclosemagazine.com, or call 281-235-0600 today!
To advertise, 281-235-0600
Recommended by
Real Estate Professionals by Marie Page aren and Ted Rao have been in real estate for more than 20 years. They both work for REALM Real Estate Professionals. Karen says, “The bathrooms in our own home needed some work. In the master bath, the shower floor had lost its finish and was slippery. It needed to be retextured. Our master vanity had the old seashell cultured marble and we wanted to update it. In the other bathroom, we had removed the sliding glass door from the tub and shower enclosure. Removing the door left holes where the screws had been, and there was tacky glue that we couldn’t get off...no matter what we tried.” “We had seen the work of Miracle Method Surface Refinishing, locally owned by Jonee and Paul Barnett, in several of our clients’ homes. We were impressed. I asked one of my clients about the longevity. She had been told five to seven years, but then said she knew someone that’s had it 15-20 years and it still looks great!” At the Rao’s Miracle Method Surface Refinishing consult, Karen asked a lot of questions. “I needed to know every detail before we got started,” says Karen. “Paul and Jonee were very professional. They answered every question I had. Their customer service level is very impressive. Our only reservation was we typically like to clean with bleach, and you cannot use bleach on refinished surfaces. We moved forward, and Paul and Jonee provided a list of cleaners that would be safe on our new surfaces.” The Rao’s two bathrooms were refinished in two phases. Karen says, “For each bathroom, we had a different technician. We were equally impressed with both, they were efficient and polite. Each covered the floor, taped everything off, and was overcautious to not overspray or make a mess. I’m an old Dutch girl and leaving a mess really irritates me. There wasn’t a mess with Miracle Method Surface Refinishing.” “The finished product is lovely. In the master shower, we only did the shower floor. They did such a great job, you can’t tell where it fades and transitions to the old surface. Our updated seashell master vanity looks great! In the other bathroom, the technician first filled the holes left by the shower door and sanded down the glue spots. Then it was refinished to pure white to match the sink and toilet we had put in a few years ago. It looks brand new! We are very impressed with the entire pro-
K
www.upclosemagazine.com
Paul an d Jone Barnett e
cess and very pleased with the results. We absolutely recommend Miracle Method Surface Refinishing and will continue to do so!” Ready to update your bathrooms (or kitchen!) at a fraction of the cost of replacing? Call Miracle Method Surface Refinishing for a free consultation today! Miracle Method Surface Refinishing 281-240-2284 603 Murphy Road, Stafford, TX (call for hours) www.miraclemethod.com/ houstonsw
UPCLOSE ~ November 2017 ~ 19
When Your
Foot Pain Needs More Than A
Band-Aid Your feet are in good hands Complete foot and ankle care
by Olivia Cane
D
o you have heel pain? You’re not alone. Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain among the middleaged, but also in younger people who are athletic or spend a lot of time on their feet. It starts out as a strain in the ligament that supports the arch of your foot, causing pain or swelling, but can slowly progress into something far more serious. If your feet roll inward when you walk (it’s called pronation), if you have high arches or flat feet, if you are overweight, wear ill-fitting shoes or have particularly tight calves or Achilles’ tendons, you are at a greater risk for plantar fasciitis. Until recently, the condition was treated with steroid injections. The injections reduced inflammation for a few months, but did nothing to assist in the healing process. Steroid injections also had a tendency to degrade surrounding tissue in the foot, which sometimes led to a complete rupture of the plantar fasciitis. What podiatrists and research scientists kept searching for was a solution, one that would address the inflammation but also help support the regenerative healing process. That solution is here. It’s called Clarix Flo. “Clarix Flo is one of the best ways to prevent foot surgery,” says Dr. Marco Vargas at Foot & Ankle Associates. “It’s a virtually pain-free proce-
dure that uses amniotic fluid to treat a number of immobilizing conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, degenerative arthritis, tendonitis, ligament damage and wounds. Because it’s a stem-cell therapy, it effectively jumpstarts your body’s own cells into repairing your injured tissue.” What’s in Clarix Flo? “It’s a combination of amniotic tissue and umbilical cord donated by consenting mothers from live, full-term births,” explains Dr. Vargas. “The material is handled, screened and processed based on the Food and Drug Administration’s own requirements and is perfectly safe. Patients report pain relief in just a few days and are able to return to their normal activities very quickly.” Unfortunately, foot pain can put you on the sidelines of your own life, and many times it just won’t go away no matter how much ice, aspirin and rest you give it. Clarix Flo doesn’t just treat your symptoms. It promotes actual healing in the body so you can enjoy your life again! If you or anyone in your family needs a bilingual, solutionfocused podiatrist, Foot & Ankle Associates has the answers—and the cutting-edge technology— you’re looking for. 90% of Dr. Vargas’s patients say they feel better after their first visit! Call or visit www.thefootpros.com to make your appointment today.
“Clarix Flo is one of the best ways to prevent foot surgery.”
20 ~ UPCLOSE ~ November 2017
ELIMINATE PAIN WITH A SIMPLE INJECTION Mention this article and receive $100 OFF Clarix Flo! Foot & Ankle Associates 281-313-0090 Memorial Hermann Southwest 7737 Southwest Fwy., Suite 500 Houston, TX 77074 Sugar Land 15200 Southwest Fwy. Suite 130 Sugar Land, TX 77478
www.thefootpros.com
“You will never go back to a regular massage.” by Amy Sharp
W
hen John Sequeira was in the corporate environment, his job was long hours and high stress. “I was getting periodic massages for relaxation. I happened to schedule an appointment at Therapeutic Thai Massage because it was in close proximity to my house. I discovered Thai massage is a whole different level of massage! It’s a very releasing and relaxing experience...much more intense, and I decided to stick with it.” John started with weekly one hour massages, then 90 minutes, and today John does a two hour massage each week. He has been a client of Therapeutic Thai Massage for more than seven years. So what puts a massage at Therapeutic Thai Massage on a different level? Therapeutic Thai Massage is the first authentic Thai massage spa specializing in age-old Thai practices along with contemporary procedures. This massage combines acupressure and assisted yoga stretches—gentle ones!—to relieve tight muscles, chronic tension and to promote overall health and happiness. John says, “At 63 years old, I need to take care of my body. Physically, these massages take care of my aches and pains. I exercise regularly, and this is a release for that. I can ask my therapist to focus on different places if needed. There’s also a mental benefit. The environment at Therapeutic Thai Massage brings calmness to our crazy world. It feels like an escape. I’m keeping my body in a good place both physically and mentally.” Therapeutic Thai Massage owners Theo and Mona Vora are proud to bring the ancient healing art of Nuad Thai Boran to the Texas area. Mona is formally trained and licensed in both Thailand and Texas, and she was John’s first therapist. John says, “From that first appointment, I realized how therapeutic this was. Mona’s skill level as a therapist is exceptional. She is extremely upbeat and positive, and maintains high expectations. As a leader, all of these qualities transcend to her incredible staff.” While the specialty at Therapeutic Thai Massage is authentic Thai massage, this spa also offers Swedish massage, deep tissue, hot stone, and Thai herbal ball massage. John regularly recommends Therapeutic Thai Massage to others, and his wife is also a client. “My wife and I both agree: Once you have a Thai massage, you will never go back to a regular massage. It’s invaluable in dealing with the stress of daily life, and a welcome escape to an incredibly calm environment.”
thaimassagehouston.com
Open Daily 10am - 10pm • Walk-ins & Appointments • Gift Certificates Available KATY 1548A S Mason Rd Katy, TX 77450 (281) 395-5652 License # ME2393
GREENWAY 3913 Richmond Ave Houston, TX 77027 (713) 208-8625 License # ME3256
SUGAR LAND 4787 Sweetwater Blvd Sugar Land, TX 77479 (281) 310-1787 License # ME2308
www.upclosemagazine.com
ENERGY CORRIDOR 13346 Briar Forest Dr. #150 Houston, TX 77077 (281) 752-9256 License # ME2712 UPCLOSE ~ November 2017 ~ 21
Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital achieves prestigious Magnet Recognition ®
H
ouston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital has earned Magnet® Recognition — the highest and most respected national honor for nursing excellence – from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Houston Methodist Sugar Land is the only hospital in Fort Bend and one of just 42 in Texas to receive Magnet designation. Nationwide, just 461 hospitals hold the prestigious honor, which is awarded to hospitals with superior nursing professionalism, teamwork and patient care following a rigorous credentialing process. “This is a tremendous honor and a welldeserved recognition for our staff, which exemplifies the very best in nursing care every single day,” said Janet Leatherwood, vice president and chief nursing officer. “Achieving Magnet recognition is a lengthy, challenging journey, and one that we’ve worked on for several years. At the heart of the process, however, are the day-to-day interactions we have with each other and with our patients. The patient care and commitment to quality that our nurses and interprofessional staff demonstrate is second-to-none, and all of us are grateful for the ongoing support of our entire leadership team, physicians and staff.” The credentialing process evaluates a
22 ~ UPCLOSE ~ November 2017
number of factors related to nursing, including the quality of nursing leadership; coordination and collaboration across specialties; and processes for measuring and improving the quality and delivery of care. Research shows that hospitals that earn Magnet recognition have increased patient satisfaction, higher levels of patient safety and care, and higher rates of job satisfaction among nursing staff. The hospital’s designation will remain in place through September 2021, and can be renewed at that time. “Magnet designation is recognition of the culture of excellence that we have worked so hard to build and maintain here – the cornerstone of how we serve the community,” said Chris Siebenaler, senior regional vice president and chief executive officer. “It is the ‘gold standard’ for nursing excellence and acknowledgement of the outstanding care that our patients receive every day. I am extremely proud of our team!” Visit houstonmethodist.org/sugarland to learn more about Houston Methodist Sugar
Land Hospital. Visit our Facebook page at fb.com/methodistsugarland for the latest news, events and information.
About ANCC’s Magnet Recognition Program The Magnet Recognition Program — administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, the largest and most prominent nurses credentialing organization in the world — identifies health care organizations that provide the very best in nursing care and professionalism in nursing practice. The Magnet Recognition Program is the highest national honor for nursing excellence and provides consumers with the ultimate benchmark for measuring quality of care. For more information about the Magnet Recognition Program and current statistics, visit nursecredentialing.org/magnet.
16655 Southwest Fwy. Sugar Land, TX 77479
houstonmethodist.org/sugarland
O CELEBRATE O
GRAND OPENING
NOVEMBER 11! We’ll be celebrating and honoring our veterans. Please join us for a Veterans Day ceremony at 9am immediately followed by our Ribbon Cutting. We’ll have activities for the kids, music, a food truck and a shooting competition. Our “Texan” level and above members will enjoy a special member buffet and major giveaways. For more information on becoming a member and membership levels, visit
www.texasgunclub.com
Veteran’s Day by Amy Sharp
WITH A BANG! H
onor our veterans this Veteran’s Day by dropping by the Texas Gun Club Grand Opening. Craig Davis, Director of Marketing & Sales, says, “We built this place to celebrate the legacy of our right to the second amendment. Veteran’s Day is the perfect day to kick off that celebration. We’ll have activities for the kids, music, a food truck and a shooting competition. It’s a fantastic opportunity to check out our facility.” This state of the art facility has 20 indoor shooting lanes, 3000 sq. ft. of retail space, three fully-equipped training rooms, a firearms simulator and gaming center, a snack shop and a members lounge. You really have to stop in and
by Amy Sharp
see it to truly appreciate how nice it is! Even better...they are equipped to teach you. “We especially want to welcome first-time shooters,” says Craig. “If you’ve never fired a handgun before or think you
206 Brand Lane, Stafford, TX 77477 832-953-4GUN (4486)
might need a refresher course, Handgun 101 will give you two hours of hands-on training on the basics of firearm safety and marksmanship. You’ll receive professional coaching on how to safely handle, load, fire and maintain most types of revolvers and semi-automatic pistols.” And because sometimes the way you carry or conceal a firearm can be ladyspecific, and some ladies prefer to learn in the company of other ladies...Texas Gun Club offers ladies-only classes. Craig says, “We count a fantastic group of ladies among our founders and management team—including Kristin Tassin, Michaelle Short, Brittanee Montalbano, April Davis, Ashley Shead, Michele Baugher, Sara Orsak and Mary Orsak. Ensuring our facility is lady-friendly has been a top priority from the beginning.” Purchase any membership before Texas Gun Club opens on November 11th, and you’ll receive huge savings and be recognized as a Founding Member in the Founder’s Guild. There are four membership options to fit every shooter, including The Republic lifetime membership. Craig says, “The Republic provides access for up to four people. It’s more than a lifetime membership, it creates a family legacy. It’s fully transferable. You can put it in your will, sell it, or give it as a gift. We will only sell 100 Republic memberships. When they’re gone, they’re gone!”
WWW.TEXASGUNCLUB.COM UPCLOSE ~ November 2017 ~ 23
It’s Fashion, It’s Glitz
and It has a New Date! by Amy Sharp
I
n light of the Hurricane Harvey recovery and rebuilding efforts, the Couture for the Cause Chairs and the American Cancer Society decided to postpone last month’s “Garden Glitz” event. Save the date! The premier Fort Bend County affair benefitting The American Cancer Society—a fashion-filled night of food, fun and philanthropy—is now set for April 14, 2018! Emceed by Ryan Chase of 104.1 KRBE’s Roula and Ryan Show, this year’s theme is ‘Garden Glitz.’ The event will be held at the Farmhouse in Richmond’s Harvest Green—Houston’s first farm-centric community by Johnson Development. As in years past, there’s a fashion show featuring couture models—many of whom are cancer patients or survivors—seizing their own opportunity to give back. In addition to the fashion show, you don’t want to miss the wine pull (make a donation, draw a cork, win a bottle of wine!), Big Board (unique auction items available for bid), “Baubles & Bubbles” raffle sponsore d by Plaza Jewelers and fabulous food from local restaurants, including The Rouxpour, Pacific Coast Tacos, The Slanted Frog, Sammy’s Steakhouse, Hickory Barn BBQ, Veritas Steak & Seafood, Lupe Tortillas, Lomontes Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria, Keeper’s Japanese Restaurant, Japaneiros. Sponsorship Chair Debbie Marcell says, “We have some new faces this year. We are happy to have them join our cause! We realize there are a lot of worthy causes in our community, and we’re especially thankful for the people and businesses that step forward on this one.” Current sponsors include: Johnson Development (this year’s presenting sponsor), Houston Methodist West and Sugar Land Cancer Centers, HCSS Innovative Software, Classic Chevy Sugar Land, Fred and Mabel R. Parks Foundation, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gary Greene, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Plaza Jewelers, UpClose Magazine, Mike & Toni Baches, Houston Dermatology & Plastic Surgery,
24 ~ UPCLOSE ~ November 2017
Westin Homes, Money Management International, WJ Interests Wealth Advisors, West Law Firm, Balanced Body Image, Discount Hitch & Truck Accessories, Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey, Newmark Homes Houston, The Millis Group, and American Textile Recycling Service,
Griswold Home Care, Ashley and Jim VanHoozer, Maxx Builders/Miss Pakistan 2017 Hira Khan, Renew Laser & Skin.
GARDEN GLITZ for the CAUSE Couture harvestgreentexas.com American Cancer Society
April 14, 2018
Doors open at 7:00pm, show starts at 8:00pm
The Farmhouse at Harvest Green,
a Johnson Development Community - Richmond, Texas
Event tickets are $125. 100% of the proceeds benefit The American Cancer Society and their mission. For more information on tickets or sponsorship opportunities contact Tiziana Triolo at (713) 706.5657 or Tiziana.Triolo@cancer.org.
Bling on the Holidays
W
ith Fort Bend’s largest selection of fine jewelry, Plaza Jewelers makes gift giving easy this holiday season. Imagine your sweetheart holding a perfectly wrapped box. Now imagine that inside that box is the most perfect piece of jewelry you have ever seen. Giving the gift of jewelry ensures this will be a holiday to remember. Know how you can make this holiday extraordinary? Give her the gift no one else has...a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry. Plaza Jewelers custom builds jewelry on-site using CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing) and 3D wax rendering. Alex says, “This technology allows us to create anything you can imagine. My team has been creating custom work for over 20 years.
by Amy Sharp
HO L IDAY
S P E C IA L S
In addition to design, we offer diamond and gemstone consultations where we help you pick your diamonds and stones. How big? What color? What’s your budget? Together we design your ring, chain, bracelet, earrings... whatever you want. We work with you to make sure your ideas come to life, customizing a piece for you so that you know you’ll be giving your special someone the only one like it… anywhere! Then we build it for you!” Ladies (and guys!)...if there is a piece of bling or maybe a watch you’ve had your eye on for awhile, create a Plaza Jewelers Wish List. It makes the shopping easy for your family and loved ones. With financing and gift certificates available, a stop in to Plaza Jewelers is the perfect way to “bling” on the holidays. Drop by today!
PLAZA JEWELERS | 713-772-2600 | 14033 SOUTHWEST FREEWAY, SUITE 705 SUGAR LAND, TX 77478 | WWW.PLAZAJW.COM
Look Your Very Best This Holiday Season by Amy Sharp
R
osenberg Dermatology—the Fort Bend satellite location of highly-esteemed Heights Dermatology & Aesthetic Center—is here to guide you in putting your best face forward this holiday season. Whether you’re discouraged by the “eleven” wrinkle between your brows, the “crow’s feet” on the outside of your eyes, “marionette lines” around your mouth, “smile lines,” dark circles, acne scarring or sunspots, Certified Physician Assistant Celia Vaclavik can help you achieve the skin you’ve always dreamed of. Celia says, “Because each individual is different and each face needs something different, we offer a wide range of aesthetic services. Botox and Xeomin are great for the eyes and above. Fillers like Juvederm, Radiesse and Voluma take care of dark circles, and lines below the eye and around the mouth and nose. Microneedling is a fantastic more natural option for those that would rather not have anything inserted into the skin. The microneedling procedure uses fine needles to stimulate collagen production. It’s a great option for acne scarring on the cheeks and anti-aging... it can erase fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots. We also offer a variety of chemical peels—including glycolic acid, the Jessner Peel and the TCA peel—to exfoliate and improve the appearance of your skin.” Not sure where to start? Celia will work with you to find the best solution for your skin. Not only is Celia your consultant...all aesthetics procedures are
performed by Celia, a Certified Physician Assistant. In addition to aesthetic services, Rosenberg Dermatology is excited to offer clinical skin care lines, including iS Clinical for anti-aging and Glytone for both acne prone skin and anti-aging. Look your very best this holiday season... schedule a free skin consultation with Celia today!
Give Thanks For Beautiful Skin!
15% off all chemical peels!
*Consultation required prior to treatment
$50 off per syringe of filler!
(Juvederm® UltraXC, Juvederm ® Ultra PlusXC, & Juvederm® Voluma) *Consultation required prior to treatment
Brought to you by Rosenberg Dermatology Offer ends November 30th
Rosenberg Dermatology • 713-730-2000 • 5219 Reading Road, Rosenberg, TX 77471 • www.heightsskin.com
Wrap up your holiday décor now and save. Pirouette® Window Shadings
$100
REBATE
*
ON QUALIFYING PURCHASES OF HUNTER DOUGLAS WINDOW FASHIONS
Make sure your home is holiday ready by ordering beautiful new Hunter Douglas window fashions today. Rebate savings are available on select styles, 9/16/17 through 12/11/17. Ask for details.
Grand Windows Grand Windows & Interiors 1405 Avenue I I, Rosenberg, TX 77471 1405 Avenue M-F: 9:00 amam - 5:00 pm pm M-F: 9:00 - 5:00 Sat: ByBy Appointment Sat: Appointment Sun: Closed Sun: Closed 281-342-9160 281-342-9160 www.grandwindows.net www.grandwindows.net
www.grandwindows.com
26 ~ UPCLOSE ~ November 2017
* Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 9/16/17—12/11/17 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. Rebate will be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card and mailed within 6 weeks ofs rebate Fundsfor do qualifying not expire.purchases Subject tomade applicable *Manufacturer’ mail-inclaim rebatereceipt. offer valid law, a $2.00 monthly fee will be assessed against card only. balance 6 months 9/16/17—12/11/17 from participating dealers in the U.S. Rebate after card issuance and each month thereafter. Additional limitations will be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card and mailed within 6 apply. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form. ©2017 weeksmay of rebate claim receipt. Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the law, aproperty $2.00 monthly feeDouglas will beorassessed againstowners. card balance 6 months of Hunter their respective 17Q4MAGPIRC1
after card issuance and each month thereafter. Additional limitations may apply. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form. ©2017 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners. 17Q4MAGPIRC1
THE
PHILOSOPHY
A KW (Keller Williams) Southwest Experience
J
Joe Francisco’s Story
oe Francisco is a local recruiter for The Academy of Art University. He also works part time for the Houston Astros and Houston Rockets with their game production crews. Joe explains “I could be in Pearland one day, Kingwood the next and Sugar Land the next...so a home in a central location like Midtown was essential.” To help him sell his home and find a new home convenient to his busy lifestyle, Joe counted on Mary Kate Torlincasi of Keller Williams Southwest (KWSW) in Sugar Land. He feels confident he would not have found what he was looking for had it not been for Mary Kate. “We looked at different parts of town, near where I worked, the commute time, the amenities I was looking for and so on. I wanted a home in Midtown with restaurants and grocery stores in walking distance.” Joe kept the house hunting slow at first. “I looked while my home was listed and still on the market, because if I found a house which was available, and my house didn’t sell—what was the point? So until we got a couple of offers, that’s when we started to really look. Mary Kate is very efficient and personable. Even though we lived far from each other, I felt like I was her main client. Time was never an issue for her. She wanted me to find a
by Donna Reed
new home. She was always available and made the time to help. We listed my home for a few months, and I think we viewed at least 16–20 houses overall.” “Mary Kate always followed up with phone calls and emails,” continues Joe. “She was constantly asking me, ‘Hey, what do you think about this?’ (regarding a new listing) or ‘How about that or this part of town?’ She gave me options and explained the process of selling my home, and all the details about buying a home, too.” Joe found what he was looking for: a Midtown home close to amenities that were important to him. And for his dog Luna...he now lives across the street from a dog park! Joe can’t say enough great things about KWSW. “Mary Kate and I are friends. The fact that KWSW hired Mary Kate and knowing the type of people they represent says a lot about the KWSW team in Sugar Land and their organization!” What’s important to you when buying or selling a home? The team at KWSW can help turn your dreams into reality! Call 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 ~ November 2017 ~ 27
FRESH HOT FOOD
FOR HARVEY’S HEROES by Amy Sharp
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n August 29th, in the midst of Fort Bend County’s Hurricane Harvey flood event, Lupita’s Mexican Restaurant sent this message via social media: “We are open today for police and first responders. Come in for a free hot meal. The Garcia’s are thankful for everything y’all are doing and please be safe. Y’all are in our prayers.” Our heroes enjoyed the Garcia family’s authentic, made-from-scratch Tex Mex. The gesture would not go unnoticed. Mayor Joe R. Zimmerman personally thanked the Garcia family in a letter dated September 25th. He said, “I greatly appreciate the time, efforts, and resources that you so willingly gave during an event of this magnitude. Your diligence helped the city continue to function and serve our residents in a time of great need.” If you haven’t stopped into this local establishment and tasted it for yourself, you need to. In addition to an unwavering support of our community, for the fourth year in a row Lupita’s Mexican Restaurant has earned a spot on food critic Alison Cook’s prestigious Houston Chronicle Top 100 Restaurants list. Why? Because the Garcia family—Jaime, Lupe, Rigo and Leo—have remained true to handed down family recipes made using the highest quality and freshest ingredients possible. Jaime says, “Lupe and I opened Lupita’s fourteen years ago with little more than a desire to share great food with our wonderful neighbors. That’s our promise to you and it has never changed. We serve hot and fresh food all the time, and it was our pleasure to provide that food to our community’s first responders. Happy Thanksgiving to you all and we’ll see you soon!”
Lupita’s Mexican Restaurant ~ 281-265-6556
3121 Highway 6 S., Sugar Land (Southeast corner of Hwy 6 & Williams Trace) www.lupitassugarland.com 28 ~ UPCLOSE ~ November 2017
“
I’d drive to Sugar Land just for the handmade flour tortillas at Lupe Garcia’s family-run restaurant, a local favorite that deserves attention for any scholar of Houston Tex-Mex. For 14 years now, this color-drenched spot has been supplying its regulars with superior nachos, stand-up fajitas and assorted other necessities of life. Those flour tortillas? Pliant, layery and freckled from the griddle, they can make a simple spinach quesadilla into something elegant. Even the small details here shine, from the toasty red table salsa to the complimentary cupful of frijoles a la charra, mined with smoky pork and a hit of pico de gallo. ~Houston Chronicle
”
Give the Gift They’ll Never Outgrow
H
it all the right notes this Christmas with a gift that will enrich your child’s life for decades to come: the gift of music! You’ll find the perfect instrument and skilled, dedicated instructors at Fort Bend Music Center. Rick Cochran, President of Fort Bend Music Center, says, “A gift certificate for an instrument, music, or lessons is the perfect fit for everyone!” Where does Santa shop for pianos? With two locations, Fort Bend Music Center has two magnificent showrooms and showcases an incredible lineup of pianos for every home and budget, including new, used, rebuilt, digital, and even player pianos. Fort Bend Music Center is the only authorized Yamaha dealer in the Houston area. They also carry W.M. Knabe & Co., Seiler, Schimmel and Bosendorfer pianos. Buy a piano for Christmas this year, and you might be listening to Christmas carols on it next year! Were you pulling your hair out last year trying to get your hands on a Hatchimal? Make this the year you
by Marie Page
“We teach students as old as 18 months and as young as 99.” abandon the struggle to find the perfect toy, because they’ll only outgrow it in a year or two anyway. Music lessons are a gift that really rocks...and as Bruce Springsteen, Taylor Swift, or Paul McCartney will tell you, it’s a gift they’ll never outgrow! Fort Bend Music Center offers group lessons for beginners in piano, guitar, drums, and voice and private lessons in every instrument and musical style imaginable! Tuck a gift certificate into a holiday card, and your loved one can www.upclosemagazine.com
pick the perfect time and be ready to start lessons in January. For nearly thirty-five years, familyowned Fort Bend Music Center has been our one-stop-shop for band and orchestra instruments, pianos, and lessons for aspiring rock musicians, lovers of classical music, eager kids and adults alike. If you already have a musician in the family, they can use a Fort Bend Music Center gift certificate for sheet music, put it towards a new instrument, or buy accessories. Rick says, “We’re a complete full-line music store...and everyone here is passionate about helping you tap into the music in your heart. We believe that music is the greatest gift you can give anyone at any age!” Fort Bend Music Center 281-494-5885 12919 SW Freeway, Ste 160 Houston 832-500-4320 3133 Southwest Freeway www.fortbendmusiccenter.com UPCLOSE ~ November 2017 ~ 29
A GYM SHE CAN by Amy Sharp
I
STICK WITH
n the past, Fort Bend Christian Academy High School nurse Lisa Lucik had trouble sticking with a gym. “I would join,” says Lisa. “Then go for a few months and stop. I never knew what I was supposed to be doing or how much weight or reps.” Just over a year ago, Lisa read about Koko FitClub in a magazine. She was intrigued. “I stopped by one day and talked to Mark Malhiot (co-owner of Koko FitClub with his wife Veronica). I decided to try the 30 days for $30 deal. I absolutely loved it! I knew after the first week that I would be joining when my 30 days were up!” So what’s different about Koko FitClub? Lisa says, “It’s like having a personal trainer, except it’s not as expensive as a personal trainer. Each time, I just plug my Koko Key into the machine and it tells me what to do...including how many reps, how much weight and how fast. It’s individual to me, and always feels like an effective workout. Plus, there are incentive programs built in. I can earn points for different colored lanyards. I also participated in the strength medallion program. Once I was three or four months in, I didn’t want to skip a month and start over! That created a workout habit.” And with a habit of working out comes results...Lisa is stronger! “My husband was doing work on the house and needed the 10 foot ladder. I went in the garage, picked it up, and lifted it (safely!) over the
cars. My shocked husband said, ‘How did you do that? You’re getting strong.’ My twenty-year-old son now teases me that I’m so strong...I can do anything!” “It’s a great workout and Koko FitClub is like Cheers,” adds Lisa. “No matter which Fit Coach is there, they say, ‘Hello Lisa,’ when I walk in the door. It’s pretty nice that they know who you are. I’ve recommended Koko to many friends!”
KOKO FITCLUB OF SUGAR LAND | 18318 UNIVERSITY BLVD., STE. 300 | SUGAR LAND, TX
KOKOSUGARLAND.COM | 281-240-KOKO
Full Plate this Thanksgiving? LET HICKORY BARN DO THE COOKING! HOLIDAY PACKAGE $79.99 To Go
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expires 11-15-2017
HEALTH MATTERS WITH DR. STEVE HARRIS WHERE PAIN RELIEF COMES NATURALLY
“I never thought I would be pain free.”
W
by Sara Adams
hen you deal with chronic back pain for years, it becomes the steady background hum that you try to manage or ignore. You start out thinking, “How can I make this pain go away?” Then, as time goes by and the pain remains, you begin to think, “I’m having some constant low-level pain, but it’s not too bad.” That’s how it was for Shawn Blaylock. Shawn moved to Sugar Land thirteen years ago when he married his wife, Raji Aiyer. He suspects his rodeo days in junior high contributed to the chronic back pain he has dealt with off and on for many years. The pain starts in his lower back and becomes more intense when standing. Through the years, the background hum of pain would get too loud to ignore and Shawn would seek professional help. Shawn says, “About three years ago, I finally reconciled myself to the fact that I would have some pain for the rest of my life.” Earlier this year, when Shawn’s pain was so severe it caused him to fall down, he consulted Dr. Steve Harris at Sugar Land Health Center. Shawn describes one important office visit, “At the beginning of each appointment and before you begin treatment, you are asked to mark where you are experiencing pain and rate the level of the pain. I’ll never forget the day I wrote on my chart, ‘No Pain.’ For the past three years I had been in constant pain. Not unbearable, but always a 2-3 level. I never thought I would be pain free.” Well respected among his colleagues and the community as a philanthropist and humanitarian, Dr. Harris is known for incorporating new technology and techniques that complement his safe and holistic approach. Dr. Harris opened Sugar Land Health Center in 1982, and recently celebrated his 41st anniversary of practice. Dr. Harris offers chiropractic care, electrical muscle therapy, laser treatment, spinal decompression, rehabilitation and also treats chronic pain, sciatica, headaches, disc herniation and degeneration cases. Shawn adds, “I really like Dr. Harris. He’s a great guy, and he has the most wonderful office staff. Everyone is so friendly, helpful, caring and conscientious. Rather than just live with pain, why not let Dr. Harris see if he can help you like he helped me.”
Follow us! YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/user/DrSteveHarrisDC Facebook: www.facebook.com/sugarlandhealth Instagram: @sugarlandhealthcenter
www.sugarlandhealthcenter.com
www.upclosemagazine.com
New Patient Special Free Exam and Consultation ($125 value)* We take great pleasure in offering a professional and friendly experience at Sugar Land Health Center in Sugar Land. Call us today at
281-980-1050 If you live with back pain, we are here to HELP. *Does not apply to Medicare or Personal Injury.
Sugar Land Health Center 281-980-1050 3425 Highway 6, Suite 101 (behind McDonalds near Williams Trace Blvd) Sugar Land, TX 77478 UPCLOSE ~ November 2017 ~ 31
OUTSMARTING CANCER TAKES LEADING MEDICINE.
At Houston Methodist Cancer Center, our teams of nationally recognized specialists are finding new ways to outsmart cancer, while delivering the most advanced treatments and comprehensive care available. From screenings to diagnosis and treatment, every aspect of our cutting-edge cancer care is available at all seven locations across Greater Houston, so you can focus on healing, surviving and thriving.
The Woodlands
Willowbrook
Baytown
West Houston-Katy
Visit houstonmethodist.org/outsmartcancer or call 281.205.4514 to find a doctor in your area.
Texas Medical Center
Sugar Land
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Houston Methodist Cancer Center at Sugar Land 16655 Southwest Fwy. Sugar Land, TX 77479