November 2019
Magazine
EXPERIENCE the MAGIC
by Amy Sharp
EXPERIENCE the MAGIC
“I
love that during Christmas folks feel a deep need to connect with the story of Christ’s birth,” says Sugar Land Baptist Church Senior Pastor Taylor Sandlin. “And here at Sugar Land Baptist, we provide lots of opportunities to do that!” The festivities kick off on December 6th with “Night in Bethlehem: An Interactive Nativity.” “Night in Bethlehem is designed to engage children,” says Taylor. “We set up a multisensory experience in the gym where children visit different booths. They have the opportunity to meet the different characters in the Christmas story. There are crafts and games. Associate Pastor of Preschool and Children, Amy Sims, does a really wonderful job...it’s a great way to engage your children in the Christmas season in early December.” On December 14th and 15th, Sugar Land Baptist’s traditional large musical program will take the stage. “This year’s program is titled ‘Living Portraits: A Sugar Land Christmas,’” says Taylor. “The church has been putting on this musical program for about a decade. However, this is the very first one for Associate Pastor of Worship and Arts, Clint Kimmel...and it will be
Merry Christmas!
a great one. The show features our fantastic choir and orchestra, a guest performance by local dance company Ballet Grace, and an eye popping, new, dramatic, artistic element that you’ll have to come to the program and see for yourself!” Sugar Land Baptist also realizes that for some this time of great joy is also a time of great grief. Taylor says, “December 18th is our Service of Consolation. This service is designed for anyone struggling to find joy in the season—missing loved ones, divorce, job loss and other crises. Anyone who has lived any amount of time has experienced grief. This service is a safe space to acknowledge that grief.” At Sugar Land Baptist, every Sunday service in December is an in-depth look at the Biblical characters in the Christmas story. This series culminates with the Christmas Eve service. “Our sanctuary is always beautiful,” says Taylor. “But it’s especially beautiful at Christmas. We invite your entire family to celebrate His birth on Christmas Eve, where you can partake in our communion service for all and a candlelight singing of Silent Night.” All are invited to experience the magic at Sugar Land Baptist this Christmas season!
CELEBRATE HIS BIRTH! NIGHT IN BETHLEHEM: AN INTERACTIVE NATIVITY FOR CHILDREN DECEMBER 6 AT 5PM SUGAR LAND BAPTIST GYM LIVING PORTRAITS: A SUGAR LAND CHRISTMAS DECEMBER 14 AT 7PM DECEMBER 15 AT 3PM GENERAL ADMISSION IS FREE. $20 RESERVED SEATING IS AVAILABLE.
SERVICE OF CONSOLATION DECEMBER 18 AT 6PM CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE DECEMBER 24 AT 5PM
Sugar Land Baptist Church 281-980-4431 | 16755 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77479 | www.sugarlandbaptist.org Sunday Morning Worship Service is at 9:45am. This service can also be watched live at live.slb.church. 2 ~ UPCLOSE ~ November 2019
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How Far Would You Drive
To See The
New Corvette L
ucky for you, you don’t have to drive far at all. On November 4th and 5th from noon till 8pm each day, Classic Chevy Sugar Land is honored to be the first stop in the Houston area (and only the second in Texas!) on the new mid-engine 2020 C8 Corvette preview tour! Jeff Sebastian, who owns Classic Chevy Sugar Land with his wife Tiffany, says, “We’ve converted our used car building into a Corvette Center. That’s where we will have
it’s the first mid-engined Corvette. It’s built like the Ferrari, Lamborghini and McLaren, but it’s an affordable sports car at under $100,000. And as Jeff said, it’s fully
2020 C8 Mid-Engine Corvette PREVIEW
November 4th and 5th Noon till 8pm Classic Chevy Sugar Land Open to the public. Stop by to see the new Corvette and all of its amazing options!
the all-new mid-engine 2020 C8 Corvette on display, alongside interactive displays and vehicle specialists. We’ll also be highlighting official customizable parts, including seats and wheels, and showing other ways to personalize the C8.” “This new C8 is phenomenal,” says Operations Manager Jerry Parks, “because
customizable...you pick everything and we build it from the ground up. People are calling from as far away as Austin and San Antonio to get a look at it during our reveal on November 4th and 5th. You’ll get to see
by Amy Sharp
it, feel it and ask questions, but unfortunately we are unable to offer test drives as part of this event. We will also have a food truck on site...so if you stop by during your lunch hour, we’ve got you covered.” And once your new Corvette arrives, you’ll be taken care of in style. The new Corvette Center at Classic Chevy Sugar Land is a valet-type service center exclusively for Corvette clients as well as pre-owned, luxury vehicle clients. “We’ve moved our used cars into the main building, and remodeled that building into a relaxing environment for our Corvette and luxury, pre-owned vehicle customers,” says Jerry. “With Wifi and games, you’ll enjoy yourself while your Corvette gets serviced.” Classic Chevy Sugar Land is the largest Corvette dealer in the Greater Houston Area and the second largest Corvette dealer in Texas. The 2020 C8—the new generation Corvette—is a can’t miss. Take a look for yourself at Classic Chevy Sugar Land’s Corvette Preview event. We’ll see you there!
281-491-9000 www.classicchevysugarland.com
SHOP FORT BEND
13115 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478
“Oh Yeah, by Sara Adams
S
haron Pendley had been looking for a vascular doctor for about four years. Not satisfied with her previous experience with a Houston doctor, Sharon was hoping to find a local doctor she could trust. After some research, she decided she would make an appointment with Dr. Ulises Baltazar. Once she made her decision, she decided to ask a few of her friends if they had heard of Dr. Baltazar. It turns out that several women in her Bible study class were his patients. Sharon says, “Every time I would mention Dr. Baltazar’s name, someone would say,Adams ‘Oh yeah, he’s my doctor!’ And by Sara then…they couldn’t say enough good things about him.” Dr. Ulises Baltazar is a highly regarded vein specialist. He has extensive experience working with conditions resulting from issues of the circulatory system and is a leader 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. Sharon leads a very active life. She volunteers at the Tri City Churches Resale Shop, attends a weekly Bible study class, sews with a quilters group that meets twice a month to make quilts that are donated to needy people all over the world, and she helps her friend Carolyn Tarver, creator of Project SMILE (Stan’s Memory includes Loving Everyone). And then of course, she likes to dance. Sharon met her husband Greg Pendley in 2001 at a country western dance and they have been dancing ever since. This past September Sharon saw some red spots on her legs that looked like freckles. On closer inspection, she could see that they were spots of blood pooling under her skin. In addition to the red spots, Sharon noticed a roll of skin forming just above her ankles and her ankles were extremely painful. This latest development caused her to make her first appointment with Dr. Baltazar. Sharon says, “The whole experience was very relaxing. The office has a calming atmosphere, and Dr. Baltazar and his entire staff were kind and caring.” Sharon was diagnosed with lipedema and venous insufficiency. “Dr.
He’s My
Doctor!”
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 2019
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Baltazar explained everything I needed to do to take care of myself. He was the only doctor who talked to me about the pain in my ankles. I will tell anybody and everybody to go see him. If anyone asks me if I know Dr. Baltazar, I am going to say, ‘Oh yeah, he’s MY doctor!’”
Congratulations! 9th Annual 2019 Classic Chevy Sugar Land Chili Challenge Winners Benefitting Fort Bend First Responders CHILI – TEXAS 3rd Place Los Palomeros 2nd Place Skeeters Champion Chili 1st Place Sugar Land Rotary
On The Cover Experience the Magic - Sugar Land Baptist Church Founder and Publisher Gina Pizzini Editor Gina Pizzini gina@upclosemagazine.com Business Editor Amy Sharp Layout and Design Night Sky Creative Account Executives Sharon Ballint Writers Sara Adams Olivia Cane Marie Page Amy Sharp Photography J. Thomas “Jay” Ford Accounting Kaitlin Ballint 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.
CHILI – SPECIALTY 3rd Place Access Health 2nd Place Texas Car Doctor 1st Place Fort Bend DA Office CHILI – SPICY 3rd Place Team Chevy 2nd Place Bugco Pest Control 1st Place S&P Cookers CHILI – FIRST RESPONDERS 3rd Place Sugar Land Professional Fire Fighters 2nd Place Stafford Fire Department 1st Place Stafford POA CHILI – BEAN 3rd Place Fort Bend Hispanic Heritage Forum 2nd Place Flighttime Cookers 1st Place Los Palomeros BAKE 3rd Place Stafford MSD 5th & 6th Periods 2nd Place Stafford MSD 1st & 2nd Periods 1st Place This Cake By Kris DECORATED BOOTH 1st Place Civilian Ft Bend DA Office 1st Place First Responders Sugar Land Professional Firefighters 1st Place Bake This Cake By Kris CROWD FAVORITE Chili UpClose Magazine Bake This Cake By Kris www.upclosemagazine.com
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(Located at the Old Trading Post in Booth—just minutes from Greatwood!) 713-560-1804 114 Agnes Rd, Richmond, Texas
UPCLOSE ~ November 2019 ~ 5
A NEW Upstairs for Guests
J
by Amy Sharp
We had a lockbox so they could anelle and Rick Ohmstede are empty nesters. “All come and go as needed, but of our kids have graduated college and moved they also let us know when out with real jobs and their own places,” someone would be here so says Janelle. “So it was time for Mom and Your we could tie the dogs. Each Dad to redo the upstairs. We wanted new day before they left, they paint and carpet in the bedrooms, wood cleaned up. There is really flooring on the stairs, and to redo both nothing worse than taking upstairs bathrooms.” Specialist on remodeling and turning In the bathrooms, Janelle and Rick wanted your house upside down. I was the cabinets painted, new countertops, new dreading it, but Teri made it a hardware, the mirrors framed, new fixtures and lot less painful and actually pretty new flooring. A major facelift for both. Janelle also enjoyable. She’s on the ball and does wanted to remove the tub in the jack-and-jill bathroom not mess around; always on top of it. Our and put in a walk-in shower. She first contacted interior designer Louise Ostrander with Decor on a Dime for help. “I can project was on schedule and on budget.” Janelle and Rick love how their new easily make decisions,” says Janelle. “I had gathered names of paint colors I liked and saved pictures. I needed Louise to reaffirm upstairs turned out. “Everyone that walks what I was thinking, and to make sure my ideas flowed with the upstairs says, ‘Wow, it’s just gorgeous!’ The rest of the house. It was Louise who got me in touch with Teri kids asked why we waited until they were gone, and I said, ‘I love you to death but you Gilberg (better known as the Re-Modelista).” “Teri was great and had lots of suggestions,” continues Janelle. are slobs.’ Now I have beautiful bedrooms “She also helped me save money when I wanted to do things and bathrooms where I can host guests, and that she thought were not necessary. For example, at one point maybe I will let the kids spend the night up I wanted to repaint or replace all of the staircase spindles. Teri there too. But no food!” told me, ‘No.’ She said they looked good, and the paint was not in Re-Modelista: bad shape. When I wanted to have the carpet installed by my own Your Home Renovation Specialist people, Teri said no problem. She is just delightful to work with.” “During construction, both Teri and her project manager Specializes in Kitchen and Bath Remodels Christian were fabulous. They were always on time and kept in “She Gets the Job Done!” 832-535-2501 • cell: 832-731-3191 touch with me constantly. The project took about six weeks. www.theremodelista.com
6 ~ UPCLOSE ~ November 2019
&
Kitchen Bath
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UNCOMPROMISING EYE CARE. EXCLUSIVE EYEWEAR. MEMORIAL EYE C E N T E R
NO MORE CONTACTS AND
NO MORE GLASSES
W
by Amy Sharp
hen Laura Millis began to notice a slight need for reading glasses back in 1995, she looked to her husband Mark for an eye doctor recommendation. “Mark had been a patient of Dr. Tom Arnold for years. He had always received excellent care,” says Laura. “I have a history of melanoma and was aware of the importance of yearly eye exams. After meeting with Dr. Arnold and his staff, receiving his care, and learning he had state-of-the-art equipment, I felt at ease that I was in good hands. I knew Memorial Eye Center at Sugar Land would be my home for eye care.”. As the years progressed, Laura’s prescription changed from an occasional need to wear reading glasses to a necessity on a daily basis...and she needed correction for distance as well. “Over the years, I tried contacts,” says Laura. “They gave me problems due to my allergies and occasional dry eye. I shared my frustration with Dr. Arnold about the difficulty of wearing my contacts and the vanity of not wanting to wear glasses. At that point, Dr. Arnold began to explain a procedure called premium intraocular lens exchange. He thought I would be a good candidate.” Dr. Arnold says, “Due to a number of disqualifying factors, many people over 40 may not be good candidates for LASIK. Intraocular lens exchange is a possible alternative, especially
for patients like Laura experiencing a change in their vision do to the natural aging of the eye. What happens in intraocular lens exchange is your eye’s natural lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens. This surgery is identical to cataract surgery, except that here a clear lens is replaced rather than a lens that has become cloudy due to a cataract.” Laura says, “After much research, I decided to have the procedure in July of 2017 with Dr. Jeffrey Whitsett. The procedure was pain-free and I didn’t have any complications at all. I have loved the results. My reading vision is 100% without glasses as is my distance. No more contacts and no more glasses. If I were asked if I would do it again, I would certainly say, ‘Yes!’” The Memorial Eye Center at Sugar Land team of doctors—including Medical Director Dr. Arnold, Dr. Jocelyn S. Horiszny, Dr. Kristyn Reed and Dr. Joseph A. Janes—takes great pride in offering every patient the absolute best in vision care. Dr. Arnold says, “You, the patient, are our highest priority. That’s why we always take the time to answer all of your questions, explain all possible treatment options, and provide the highest quality of eyecare services available. What can we help you with today?” Together, Laura and Mark Millis own and operate The Millis Group Inc, a local
Drs. Jocelyn S. Horiszny, Tom Arnold, Kristyn Reed, and Joseph A. Janes
development corporation and construction company producing unique and distinctive properties including Sovereign Shores, The Retreat of Sovereign Shores, Kingdom Heights, Royal Lakes Manor and The Offices of Greatwood. For more information, visit www. millisgroup.com. Memorial Eye Center at Sugar Land 281-242-2020 15337 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.memorialeyecenter.com
UPCLOSE ~ November 2019 ~ 7
Very Reputable and Good People
W
by Amy Sharp
hen Don Sheffield was ready to upgrade his kitchen and bathroom countertops, his relatives recommended family-owned Lone Star Floors. Don says, “I knew I wanted granite, so I stopped by the showroom and looked at samples, which they let me take home to see how they looked. It worked really well, and I was happy with the price. On the day of installation, they showed up on time, did the work in one day, cleaned up, and left everything looking fabulous.” Happy with his countertops, when Don was ready for new entryway and bathroom flooring, he again turned to Lone Star Floors. “I talked to people that had similar work done. Lone Star Floors just gets good reviews from everybody! This time, I knew I wanted to replace the carpet with tile that looks like wood. I just wasn’t sure if I wanted porcelain or ceramic. Lone Star Floors was very helpful in making that decision. For various reasons, I went with porcelain. Again, I was able to take home samples to see how it would look in my home. This project took four days to complete.’ In business for nearly 25 years, Lone Star Floors is locally owned and operated by cousins Mohamed Naser, Ziad Mukhaimer and Imad Mansour. While they started out as a flooring store, Lone Star Floors has grown to include full kitchen and bathroom remodeling—including plumbing, shower glass, painting and granite. “I would recommend Lone Star Floors to anybody,” says Don. “They’re very reputable and stand by their word...good people. Now that I’ve tiled the entryway, the kitchen floor doesn’t quite look right. It needs the same tile. I will be calling Lone Star Floors for a phase two of flooring, including my kitchen, breakfast area and formal dining room!”
Lone Star Floors • 3 Locations • www.lonestarfloors.com Sugar Land: 281-564-1345 10009 Highway 6 South Sugar Land, TX
Katy: 281-398-2319 873 South Mason Rd. #300 Katy, TX
Woodlands: 832-813-0813 24627 I-45 North Suite # A The Woodlands/Spring, TX
G E T
M O R E
F R O M
LONE STAR
FLOORS
No Muss, No Fuss
A
re you ready for the whirl of holiday parties and family visits? Take the stress out of party prep by giving yourself the best hostess gift ever...a home cleaning by the Mahoney’s House Cleaning. Imelda Mahoney, owner of Mahoney’s House Cleaning, says, “We offer regularly scheduled cleanings and special help for special occasions, too! We want you to enjoy your holidays...and leave the cleaning to us!” You don’t have to be a holiday hostess to call
Mahoney’s House Cleaning. Folks all over Fort Bend love knowing they can go to work, run their errands, and come home to a home that’s sparkling clean. No-hassle key drop off and pick up means you can cross “cleaning house” off your to-do list for good! These maids are bonded and insured, have undergone thorough background checks, and arrive neatly uniformed in a clearly-labelled company car, so you can have complete confidence. Schedules start filling up in November and things stay crazy right through New Year’s. Give yourself or a friend a little extra “ahhhhh” with regular home cleanings by Mahoney’s House Cleaning. If you’re getting ready for major Thanksgiving festivities, let Mahoney’s House Cleaning 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 House Cleaning. Imelda's daughter Casandra 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 the professionals!”
Mahoney’s House Cleaning Services • 281-777-1526 mahoneyshousecleaning@yahoo.com • www.mahoneyshousecleaningservices.com 8 ~ UPCLOSE ~ November 2019
Imelda’s Insight Make one big batch of cookies and freeze individual portions in ice cube trays. If you’re using shapes, freeze already cut out dough on a cookie sheet until cold, and then transfer to a freezer bag. You might need to bake the frozen dough for a few minutes longer than the recipe calls for, but it’s totally worth it.
KELLERWILLIAMS REALTY SOUTHWEST ®
The Champions For Charity mission: KW Southwest Agents embracing the Keller Williams philosophy by serving their clients and charitable organizations “giving where we live.” KWSW is home to more than 500 agents who embrace this philosophy of giving back. UpClose magazine and the KWSW Facebook page will be featuring a different charity each month presented by one of KW Southwest’s Champions for Charity!
A Keller Williams Experience
Darin Pinto and Anjana Bhakta’s Story by Amy Sharp
I
t was a hot day, and KW (Keller Williams) turned into a second kitchen.” Shortly after the purchase, Darin and Anjana’s Southwest agent Verna Koleosho-Johnson was doing a purchase tour at Lakeview Retreat, a daughter made a surprise entry into the world... new construction community in Richmond. Darin so they decided to put their previous home on the Pinto was also there that day. He and his wife Anjana market as-is. “It did not sell in 1 ½ months,” says Bhakta were expecting their first child and looking Darin. “Verna suggested we take it off the market to build a bigger home...a home that included five and make some changes, including laminate floors bedrooms, a media room, and an area they could and granite countertops. She assured us we would set up as a second kitchen for Anjana’s parents. “I recoup the price on both. Within weeks of going back on the market, we had several offers!” stopped in to check the price range on the Anjana and Darin call their new home a homes,” says Darin. “But no one was there blessing. “We’ve already recommended Verna to help me. Verna and I started talking, and to several people. We are very happy with she answered some of my questions. I know what she has done for us. Going forward, several real estate agents, and Verna seemed Verna will be our go-to real estate agent.” confident in what she did.” Several weeks later, Darin reached out to Verna to help. Anjana and Darin looked at several existing homes with Verna. “We soon realized together that the area where I met Verna was The Literacy Council of Fort Bend where we needed to be,” says Darin. County provides literacy programs “Verna identified a partially-built that empower adults. These include home that matched what we wanted. KW Agent basic literacy, ESL (English as a Second Verna KoleoshoIt was almost perfect, in our price Language), GED preparation, US citizenship Johnson range, and the study could be easily
A Champion for Charity
preparation, transitions to post-secondary education, and basic computer skills. KW Southwest Agent Verna Koleosho-Johnson says, “In honor of Literacy Month, KWSW is collaborating with the Literacy Council to hold a local author book fair to promote literacy, encourage book purchases, create an environment for local authors to network amongst each other, and educate and inspire aspiring authors. All are welcome to join us!”
The Author Amongst Us November 18th, 6 - 7:30pm KW Morris Training Room (inside KWSW office) Free Admission - Open to the Public Get inspired by our vibrant literary community and walk away with a new favorite author! Hosted by KWSW and Literacy Council of Fort Bend (www.ftbendliteracy.org).
281-265-0000 • 1650 Highway 6, Ste 350 • Sugar Land, TX 77478
Your local destination for your real estate needs. KWSW.com provides comprehensive school, master planned communities, and neighborhood information on homes for sale in our hometown.
To advertise, 281-235-0600
UPCLOSE ~ November 2019 ~ 9
Corelli’s Italian Cafe
Book Your Holiday Parties NOW in our Beautiful
Celebrate the Holidays with Your Favorite Neighborhood Italian Spot by Amy Sharp
Wine Room I
SAVE
A TURKEY!
EAT
n Italy, food is more than a means of supplying the body with essential nutrients to stay healthy and grow. Food—amazingly fresh Italian food—is something to be proud of. And food is prominent in the celebration of every occasion in Italy, especially the holidays! Lucky for us, we don’t need a passport to partake in high-quality Italian food this holiday season. Corelli’s Italian Cafe has been cooking up the best, made-from-scratch Italian right here in Sugar Land for more than twenty years. Family and friends alike gather at Corelli’s for the fabulous entrees, including the mouth watering lasagna and the everpopular pork chop. This is why Corelli’s gift cards are the perfect fit for everyone on your list! General Manager Sean Kennedy says, “Starting the day after Thanksgiving through December 31st, we are giving you a $25 bonus card for every $100 in gift cards you purchase. This bonus card has no restrictions...you can use it for yourself, gift it to someone, or whatever you like.” Planning a holiday party? The quaint Corelli’s wine room is the perfect setting for your soiree! “We can accommodate up to 36 people in the wine room (minimum of 10),” says Sean. “Just give us a call to book and talk to a manager. We will work with your budget and create an incredible experience for your private party guests. Here at Corelli’s, we love the holidays. It’s our favorite time of year!” Voted Best Italian Restaurant in Sugar Land/Fort Bend County three years in a row by Fort Bend Star Readers Voted Best Italian Restaurant in Sugar Land/Fort Bend County 2017 by Fort Bend Focus Readers Voted Best Italian Restaurant in Sugar Land 2017 by Living Magazine Readers
MORE
PASTA!
WE CATER SINCE 1997
3229 HWY 6 @Williams Trace
281-491-8900 www.corellis.com 10 ~ UPCLOSE ~ November 2019
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Corelli’s is consistently recognized by Fort Bend ISD for supporting local schools. Corelli’s also supports many of our local charities, churches and religions, and many local private schools. And keep an eye out for Corelli’s at many local events, including the Sugar Land Food and Wine Affair and Girlfriends Giggle. Corelli’s Italian Cafe 281-491-8900 3229 Highway 6 @Williams Trace www.corellis.com
, e c n o t a l l a d an d e s p a l l o c r e m sum . l l a f o t in R WILDE A C S O —
F
by Olivia Cane
all is a delicious time of year in Sugar Land. It’s a time of pumpkin-spice lattes, your kids’ school art projects (why is it always a construction paper pumpkin?), and big fluffy sweaters. Since the nights will be getting chillier, fall is also a time to get your furnace running again. Yet using your furnace without a recommended annual inspection can be dangerous. Fire departments respond to an average of 72,000 carbon monoxide poisoning incidents each year, and some of those are fatal. But are annual furnace inspections really necessary? “In a word, yes,” says Brian Jackson, HVAC expert and owner of Jackson Air and Heat, the oldest TRANE comfort specialist in Sugar Land. “Furnace manufacturers often caution homeowners that damage caused by improper maintenance is not covered under warranty—and, in fact, can void the warranty altogether. More important though is the safety of your family. I’ve inspected furnaces so rusty, they were practically belching carbon monoxide into the house. These are preventable dangers that
don’t cost a lot to avoid, but cost a lot once have you spent toggling the temperature they’ve turned into a full-blown emergency.” controls from heat to air? A lot! “If it’s time for a new furnace we can do What are some of the things homeowners should look for in an HVAC inspector? that too,” says Brian. “You’ll be glad to “Unfortunately, there are no industry stan- know that TRANE is offering fantastic deals dards for a furnace tune-up,” says Brian. right now on TRANE XV20i Variable Speed “That’s why it’s important you ask your units with TruComfort technology. You heating contractor up front what services can take advantage of their 0% financing or you will be receiving. At Jackson Air and generous instant rebate offers. Once you’ve Heat, we spend a lot of time and effort experienced the TRANE difference, you will going through an entire punchlist of safety never go back to your old brand again.” “Give us a call and we’ll come out and items, from amp-draw tests to wiring inspections, burner adjustment to the all important do our all-points safety inspection on your heat exchanger inspection. If you want your furnace. Our job is to keep you both cominspection done properly, it pays to go with fortable and safe!” pros like us who’ve been in the business for Jackson Air and Heat, Inc. over thirty-seven years. We know what we’re Sugar Land’s Oldest doing, and we do it right. Your safety and Independent Trane Dealer the safety of your family are at stake.” License #TACLB29585 During the holidays especially it pays to 281-240-1037 keep both your heating and your air conditioning up to par. With so many friends and family members going through your house, you can sometimes switch from heat to air conditioning within the span of just a PROUD SPONSOR OF THE HOUSTON TEXANS few hours. How many winter holidays
www.LicenseToChill.us
?
ASK MARGIE The Lawyer Who Cares
THIS MONTH’S TOPIC:
Your Legacy by Amy Sharp
Your Legacy Should Be as Unique as Your Story
R
on Putterman’s life is nothing short of incredible. This Wisconsite moved to Houston in 1969 to run the cameras in mission control during Apollo 11. As a director with KPRC, 22-year-old Ron volunteered Friday nights screening films at a home for dependent and neglected children. “One day, a little boy climbed in my lap to watch the movie. We had a connection. It wasn’t something I searched out or even thought about, but Alan adopted me long before I adopted him.” The year was 1972. After a long legal battle, Ron became the first single man in the US to adopt a child. This heartwarming story is documented in Ron’s book and a CBS movie available on YouTube, both titled To Find My Son. When Ron built his Sugar Lakes home in 1994, he wanted to put in a movie theater. “No one knew how to do it or where to purchase items,” says Ron. “I went to commercial theaters and checked lights, signage and marquees for manufacturer names that I then contacted. Thinking I couldn’t be the only one looking for these types of things, I put
20 items up for sale. They sold immediately. My company, Home Theatre Interiors (www. hometheatreinteriors.com), became the first company online selling premier home theater decor and accessories.” Today, Home Theatre Interiors continues to thrive. Ron fills his days as a light designer for local theaters and school drama departments. A few months ago, Ron realized he had not updated his will since Alan first married. “I now have three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. I know firsthand what my siblings and I went through when my parents passed. I wanted to make sure everything was taken care of, and I wanted to specify what happens in the event I can’t make decisions. I contacted Margie Connolly to help. It’s not something anyone wants to talk about, but Margie made it very easy to get all of my documents in place. She had answers to all of my questions...she is great!” “Estate planning is not one-size-fits-all,” says Margie. “Together, Ron and I created a legacy to fit his unique story. How can I help you plan your legacy?”
Margaret McCullough Connolly, PLLC
281-433-9488 • 346-309-4236 4610 Sweetwater Blvd. Suite 200, Sugar Land, TX 77479 mmconnollylaw@gmail.com • www.mmconnollylaw.com
A team of leaders in
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Drs. Laura Martinez and Neel Srikishen, board-certified urologists with Houston Methodist Urology Associates in Sugar Land, are dedicated to the treatment of the entire genital and urinary tract. They combine their clinical expertise with the advanced technology at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital to treat the following conditions: • Erectile dysfunction • Kidney/bladder • Prostate issues conditions • Female urology • Urinary symptoms • Kidney stones • Infertility/vasectomy • Urologic cancers
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SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT 16659 Southwest Fwy. Medical Office Building 2, Suite 401 Sugar Land, TX 77479
houstonmethodist.org/spg 281.746.6611
Laura Martinez, MD Urology
12 ~ UPCLOSE ~ November 2019
Neel Srikishen, MD Urology
www.upclosemagazine.com
Full Service Outdoor Living Design and Construction
by Amy Sharp
B
ratton Pools & Outdoor Living, locally-owned by Michael and Kryshon Bratton and Brent Appelt, enjoys an unmatched reputation for quality and reliability. “We aim to create the backyard of your dreams,” says Michael. “This is full service backyard design and construction. Pools, covered patios, outdoor kitchens, pergolas, fire pits, etc. are all in the scope of what we do.” So you’re ready for a new backyard. How does it work? “We come out to your home, take a look at your space, and get a feel for what you are wanting,” continues Michael. “Then we come up with 3D plans where you can really see your ideas come to life. We pay great attention to fine detail, because in this business measurements, tolerances, schematics and blueprints must be accurate. Then we invite you to our Design Center, where we can help you select everything: coping, tile, decking, plaster, lighting...the possibilities are endless! We play with what you like in our 3D rendering of your backyard and pool. Together we make changes and tweaks until we’ve created exactly what you want.” In addition to a pool, an outdoor kitchen and/or any structure you can imagine, landscaping can also be included in your package. “We work with several landscape architects to incorporate landscaping into our pool and outdoor living designs,” says Brent. “We can even wrap the cost of landscaping into your contract so
your loan covers the entire backyard. And we are very hands-on. Mike and I both actively manage projects, we supervise the process directly every step of the way.” Maybe you already have a pool and it’s stuck in the dark ages. “A big part of our business,” explains Michael, “is total pool makeovers. We renovate pools—including decking, plaster, edging and equipment—bringing them up to date. I’ve been working around pools since 1989, so my experience really comes into play here. And after we’re done...most people think it looks like a brand new installation.” Michael, Kryshon and Brent all grew up right here in Fort Bend County. This locally-owned and operated business maintains an A+ rating with the BBB. If your backyard isn’t looking the way you wish it could, give Bratton Pools & Outdoor Living a call. They’ll bring your outdoor living dreams to life! Bratton Pools & Outdoor Living 281-988-7700 Design Center 403 S 5th Street #B, Richmond, TX 77469 www.brattonpools.com
To advertise, 281-235-0600
UPCLOSE ~ November 2019 ~ 13
USE IT OR LOSE IT USE your dental insurance benefits before Dec 31st or you LOSE them!
by Amy Sharp
Come in as a patient and leave as a friend!
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. 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
14 ~ UPCLOSE ~ November 2019
www.upclosemagazine.com
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-of-the-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
Non-invasive. Non-surgical. Pain-free.
IMMEDIATE
Results!
CHANGE YOUR
LOOK
by Amy Sharp
IN TIME FOR THE
HOLIDAYS!
H o l i day S p e c i a l !
$298 “Ultimate Look” reg $895 targeted fat and cellulite treatment
U
$258 “Ultimate Lift”reg $645 for the face and neck
Before After
ltimate Beauty owner Joslyn M. Johnson was a Licensed Vocational Nurse early in her career. Then she became a police officer and worked her way up to Lieutenant with the Houston Police Department. She says, “My husband was killed in the line of duty, and I was back on patrol. My adult children did not want me on the streets, so I retired. I’ve always wanted to be an entrepreneur, and I’ve always been interested in beauty and helping women. Gravity starts to take its toll, and there are so many new things out there that do not require going under the knife.” Joslyn’s life changed when she flew out to California and tried this amazing “Ultimate Look” three step state-of-the-art radio frequency cellulite and fat reduction system. “I lost inches immediately,” says Joslyn. “And I kept losing them. It really worked...so I bought the system, got trained and brought it home!” An “Ultimate Look” three-step treatment at Ultimate Beauty consists of targeted fat and cellulite loss with Lipo Sculpt Lite and Ultrasonic Cavitation, and skin tightening with Therma-Lift. All procedures are non-invasive and pain-free with no down time, and the results are immediate! Joslyn says, “Your only job is to do 30 to 45 minutes of cardio within 24 hours of treatment. We can treat any body part, and we also offer Ultra-Lift for the face and neck. All treatments are done in a salon environment, and we offer complimentary aromatherapy, mini facials and hand massages for your pampering and relaxation. When you’re done, the results are immediate and
To advertise, 281-235-0600
you can go about your day! Maximum results are achieved with repeated treatment. This is easy and affordable, and we offer care credit packages to maintain and enhance results.” Joslyn loves life with her children and three grandchildren. She enjoys comedy shows, plays, live music and dancing. Let Joslyn help you regain your youthful body of yesterday effortlessly with this easy radio frequency treatment featured on Dr. Oz, Good Morning America, and more. It all starts with a consultation. Schedule yours today! Ultimate Beauty 832-886-0700 Located in Tuscany Village Salons 4807 Highway 6 #17 Missouri City TX, 77459 www.ultimatebeautyskinandbody.com UPCLOSE ~ November 2019 ~ 15
Is Your Toilet
by Amy Sharp
A
gurgling toilet may seem somewhat insignificant, but it might be the sign of a much larger problem—a sewer line clog or crack. Local Alan’s Plumbing Master Plumber Luke Burkhalter says, “We get called out frequently when the sewer line has backed up into the entire house. You don’t want this to happen. It’s costly and messy. But there are signs to look for...signs you may have a problem with your sewer line.” Signs of a Sewer Line Problem • Strange gurgling noises coming from your first floor toilets •Lack of water in your toilets •Flooding around base of toilets •Slow draining bathtub or failure to drain • Noticeable backup in your toilet, tub or shower “If you are experiencing any of these signs,” continues Luke, “you can further investigate by locating your sewer line clean out. It’s a 4 inch
pipe access point located a few feet from your house. Take the top off. If you have a downstream clog, the clean out will be holding water. In this instance, you have time. You can use minimal water until you get a plumber to your home. If the clean out is not holding water, stop using all water sources. The clog is upstream, under your house...and has no release. Call a plumber immediately.” “What we see most often are cracks and roots in the sewer line. We can diagnose this by running a camera down the access point to locate the roots or the problem. Here at Alan’s Plumbing, we carry a sewer machine with a root cutter on every truck. We can take care of this issue on the spot.” But what if your toilet is gurgling and you can’t find the access point? Luke says, “These access points often get buried. If you don’t know where it is...give us a call. We’ll find it for you. We are all happier when we find the clog before it floods your entire home with sewer!” Alan’s Plumbing is owned by Luke’s dad,
Master Plumber Alan Burkhalter. At this family-owned and operated business, Luke’s mom Jennifer answers the phones. His Uncle Chris is also a master plumber, his brother Beau is journeyman-licensed and studying for his master plumber license, and his brother Jake is an apprentice close to his journeyman license. Journeyman-licensed Jeff Johnson and apprentices Jaime, Trevor and Christian round out this incredible crew. If you have a plumbing issue—or even just need to ask a question—the family at Alan’s Plumbing is always just a phone call away.
Alan’s Plumbing
281-261-1064 License M-18995
WWW.ALANS.PLUMBING
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www.upclosemagazine.com
F CUS
Alternative Medicine That
Tastes Great Too!
Sebastian’s
Story
by Amy Sharp
V
anessa Alvarado learned her son Sebastian had the extremely rare Hypoplastic Right Heart Syndrome while he was still in utero. Because of this condition, Sebastian was born in Houston instead of his hometown of Ingleside, near Corpus. Vanessa says, “After Sebastian was born, he had two heart surgeries and a G-Tube placed. He needed a medication to help keep his blood vessels open. Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy was able to work with the doctor to find an alternative medication that would only cost $65.” After months in the hospital, Vanessa and Sebastian were ready to move home. “I panicked,” says Vanessa. “There’s a good chance Sebastian will need this medication for the rest of his life, and there’s no Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy in Ingleside. I spoke with Dr. Omar Alkazzaz at Campbell’s, and he offered to mail Sebastian’s medication to me. So that’s what we’ve been doing. At times I’ve almost run short. It’s liquid and Sebastian takes less than one mL at a time...so it’s sometimes difficult to see how much is left. But I just call Campbell’s and they overnight it. Everyone there is so helpful!” Sebastian is now two years old and Vanessa is working on feeding Sebastian by mouth instead of through the G-Tube. “Dr. Omar offered to flavor his medicine for me. Sebastian loves every flavor we’ve tried, and taking his medicine orally is really helping him learn to swallow. Campbell’s truly has Sebastian’s Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy “If our staff can’t make it… best interest at heart. It’s very cool and I’m so then you probably don’t need it!” grateful for them. They are wonderful!” Dr. Lance Campbell, Pharm. D., R.Ph, Sugar Land • 281-980-2555 founded Campbell’s Compounding 4760 Sweetwater Blvd. Suite 103 Pharmacy to provide patients with many more alternatives to improve Houston • 713-668-4833 their quality of life. What can 6603 Kirby Dr., Houston, TX 77005 Campbell’s do for you? Stop in today! www.campbellscompounding.com To advertise, 281-235-0600
UPCLOSE ~ November 2019 ~ 17
That’s Mine! Property Division in Divorce Olivia Cane by
T
he hardest time to remember that change is only a temporary loss of security is when you’re right in the middle of a change. Divorces are a big change—and an even bigger loss of security— but they aren’t half as tragic as staying in an unhappy marriage. Experts now put our chances of getting divorced at about 39% in the U.S.... and there is zero shame if you or someone you know wants out of an unsatisfactory relationship. But there are a number of hurdles to overcome, and you will need a compassionate, knowledgeable, and tough negotiator working on your behalf. Ronique Bastine Robinson, founder of Bastine Law Group, has been protecting the rights and interests of her clients for over twenty years. “There are a lot of psychological factors at play in divorce propertysettlement negotiations,” explains Ronique. “That’s why division of property is one of the most challenging parts of the divorce process.” “Researchers call it the ‘endowment effect,’ which is when we rate something
(i.e., a pair of silver candlesticks, a car, an item of antique furniture) as important just because we own it—or more importantly—we feel as though we own it, whether that’s objectively true or not. When emotions are running especially high, couples can weaponize the ownership of things against each other. All too often when we can’t have love, we settle for power. And what greater power is there than ownership of property? Part of your attorney’s job is to help you navigate the psychological and legal complexities of your case. Believe me, they impact each other and ultimately determine your outcome.” Ronique Bastine Robinson is counted among a small group of Texas Board Certified Family Law Specialists. She is an Associate Municipal Judge for the City of Stafford, a published author, and formerly an adjunct professor at Thurgood Marshall School of Law. But it is her commitment to excellence that has made her law firm one of the most sought-after in the Fort Bend area. “Sometimes the person you marry is not the person you divorce,” says Ronique. “Give us a call. We’d love to help you come out on top.”
281.240.7979
www.bastinelaw.com 12603 SW Frwy Suite 571 • Stafford, Texas
We Repair & Refinish in 2 Days or Less! BEFORE
Ugly Colors Cracked, Chipped Tile Stained, Moldy Grout Leaking Shower Pan
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Ronique Bastine Robinson Managing Partner
FAMILY LAW
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everywhere! Call for your Rodent Inspection Today!
® We Also Repair & Refinish: Over 1,000,000 • Bathtubs & Tile Walls Satisfied Customers • Kitchen Countertops Since 1979 • Sinks & Vanities Estimates are Always FREE • Fiberglass Tubs & Showers Each Miracle Method franchise is independently owned and operated.
18 ~ UPCLOSE ~ November 2019
Stop by to see our new showroom location! 12705 S Kirkwood Rd Suite 203, Stafford, TX 77477
281-240-2284 www.MiracleMethod.com
www.upclosemagazine.com
BUGCO Pest Control 281-240-2157 www.bugco.org 9720 Harlem Road #B3 Richmond, TX 77407
Discover the
Ancient Therapy
by Amy Sharp
R
Reflexology
of
eflexology therapy has a more than 3000 year history in Oriental medicine. The Chinese believe that reflexology stimulates the body into healing itself by improving circulation, reducing stress and pain, and restoring natural balance. Today, reflexology is an extremely popular and effective massage treatment, and it’s the practice of choice at the all new Wei Foot Relax located on Hwy 6 in Missouri City. Wei Foot Relax therapists describe this ancient therapy as “a combination of acupressure, energy work and massage all-in-one.” And don’t let the name fool you, it’s more than merely a foot massage. “There are more than 7,000 nerve endings found in the human foot. When these areas are targeted during reflexology treatment, the stimulation works to restore unbalanced energy levels, as well as help heal a host of health ailments. Since the treatment uses pressurepoint massage to restore the flow of energy throughout the body, the focus is not just on the foot...but also the head, neck and back. The benefits include cleansing the body of toxins,
boosting the immune system, increasing circulation, reducing headaches, promoting health and balancing energy,” All Wei Foot Relax therapists are reflexology-certified and have more than 10 years experience. Massages take place in an open area, and clients remain fully-clothed. For clients that cannot travel, house calls are available for $100. Traditional reflexology foot massages (including head, neck and back) are $25, but right now Wei Foot Relax is offering a 40% off Grand Opening special. That’s $15 for a massage! While this fabulous price won’t last forever, the $15 rate can be extended by purchasing a super coupon, either six massages for $90 or 10 for $150. Appointments can be booked by calling or visiting www.weifootrelax.com.
Grand Opening
Special Offer Foot Reflexology Massage (includes head, neck and back)
l5
$
Wei Foot Relax 281-937-8000 or 281-383-0185 4899 Highway 6, Suite 210C, Missouri City, Texas 77459 www.weifootrelax.com
/hr UPCLOSE ~ November 2019 ~ 19
From Chair Yoga to Competitive Yoga. No Surgery!
S
by Amy Sharp
eventy-three-year-old Peggy Fox-MacKay has been an athlete all her life. When she was 28, she felt a slip in her lower lumbar while running. In 1992, Peggy was in a head-on collision that took the C-curve out of her neck. “I managed my pain by seeing a chiropractor. Then in 2009, while training for a half marathon, my 4th lumbar moved off the column. I couldn’t even sit after that, and I had minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery.” Last October, during a 10 mile hike, Peggy’s leg went numb and gave out. “My posture had been so compromised, it collapsed. I was offered surgery or lifelong pain meds. I did not want to face either.” Peggy and her husband Doug attended a free seminar at Centeno-Schultz Clinic in Denver, a regenerative medicine practice that uses advanced stem cell and blood platelet procedures to provide non-surgical treatment options for musculoskeletal and spinal issues. “I loved the idea that this is a mostly holistic approach where the patient is a partner in getting their health back. At my consultation, Dr. Azuike did an extremely thorough physical FREE Seminar examination and ordered an MRI. She was Using Your Own very honest with me. She told me that due to Stem Cells to Help the time I waited to seek treatment, my age, and the amount of degeneration in my back, I Heal Your Body would likely require more than one injection. November 19th She worked with me on the most cost-effective 6:30pm - 8:00pm way to do that.” Texas Interventional Orthopedics After the injections, Peggy went from excruciating pain to rarely having lower back pain. She experienced and Regenerative Medicine immediate relief in the neck, and her range of motion increased by 30%. She says, “Earlier this year, I could only Learn more about Texas do chair yoga. After the injections and using the Escosgue Interventional’s unique stem cell Method of exercises to strengthen my back, I’m now and blood platelet procedures. training for a yoga competition!” Everyone welcome! Today, Dr. Ugochi Azuike practices regenerative medicine
at Texas Interventional Orthopedics and Regenerative Medicine here in Fort Bend County. “I can’t say enough good things about Dr. Azuike. I recommend her and her method. Regenerative medicine is realistic, it’s not magic, and includes clear instructions on what to do to recuperate and what you need to do for the rest of your life. I feel extremely lucky to have found Dr. Azuike, and plan to visit her in Texas for refresher injections!” Texas Interventional Orthopedics and Regenerative Medicine 281-601-1321 7110 Hwy 6, Ste. B, Missouri City, Texas 77459 www.texasinterventional.com
The Heart of Care
L
by Sara Adams
ead CNA, Mercy Adofo, has been at The Auberge at Sugar Land since the assisted living residence became one of the first memory-care-only communities in Sugar Land 18 years ago. Having worked in a hospital for five years, Mercy admits she was hesitant at first...so she agreed to work part-time in the beginning. It didn’t take long for Mercy to fall in love with the residents and the familyoriented, team approach to care. Mercy says, “The entire staff gets really attached to our residents. For me, everyone I take care of, I treat as if they are my own parent. I just love them. Every day before I start my shift I pray, ‘Give me the strength to take care of the people I work with.’ And at the end of the day, I thank God for all that He has done. When I leave to go home, I feel like I’ve given something to someone.” As much care as Mercy has given through the years, she says she is the one who has received so much. “The joy they bring me is with me forever. What that does for me, I can never pay back.” 20 ~ UPCLOSE ~ November 2019
Watching Mercy in action, smiling and patiently working with the residents and hearing about how she likes to mentor and help younger co-workers, it’s no wonder that the Texas Assisted Living Association (TALA) named Mercy Adofo their 2010 TALA Hero. She was given the honor of Outstanding Caregiver in recognition of her superior performance, dedication and excellence. The entire staff at The Auberge at Sugar Land is dementia-care certified. They are trained to meet the residents as they are today; celebrating their abilities and successes, while supporting them as their normal life continues to change and evolve. Formerly known as Silverado Memory Care, The Auberge at Sugar Land provides a safe and peaceful haven that blends compassion, innovation and clinical excellence in an unmatched living environment for those with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.
The Auberge at Sugar Land 281-277-1221 1221 Seventh St. Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.aubergesugarland.com *The Auberge at Sugar Land was voted Best Memory Care in Fort Bend County 3 years in a row.
NEW LOCATION.
THE BEST TECHNOLOGY. SAME CLOSE-KNIT FAMILY CULTURE. by Amy Sharp
CORE
Realty—Fort Bend’s boutique realty firm where it’s all about you—has expanded! Admin Manager Ella Guinhawa says, “We are excited about our new and expanded convenient location, right on Sweetwater Blvd. While we are proud to be with the times in regards to the latest technology, including paperless transactions and client apps, we love that we have maintained the culture of a people person real estate agency. A one-on-one culture. Agents are on-site and available.”
CORE Realty Grand Opening December 7 at 6pm
4675 Sweetwater Blvd. Ste A Sugar Land, TX 77479 Join the Core Realty agents, owners and their families for light bites and friendship. Children welcome. “That’s right,” says agent/co-owner Avinash Thadhani. “There is nothing virtual here, as you see popping up in new agencies. We are a close-knit, family-oriented agency. We take care of our agents, and we take care of you. I worked for 15 years in the big corporate side of realty. It was always quantity, quantity, quantity. A few hundred dollars, they would say, ‘Don’t worry, it’s just a few hundred, not worth the time.’ This is not the culture at CORE, instead it’s quality. We will fight for you, yes, even if it’s just a few hundred dollars. We are with you from start to finish: showings, negotiations, working with the mortgage company, inspections, appraisal and closing. It takes more time and effort on our end, but again, we do things differently and this is why many of our clients are referrals and repeats. Recently, we expanded into property management. Maybe you are already leasing a home and tired of collecting rent, taking repair calls and finding a contractor. Or
maybe you are looking for a property to lease out. We take care of it all. We screen applicants, provide a dedicated property manager and have a portal for tenants and owners...allowing for electronic requests and payments. Hearing ‘check is in the mail,’ and then needing to go to the bank? Forget about that!” Nothing speaks louder about character than community involvement. In 2018, CORE Realty broker and owner, Nelvin Adriatico, was awarded the Texas Association of Realtors Good Neighbor Award for his community service, including the Back to School program. Through a partnership with Alliance Multicultural Community Services, for the past 10 years Nelvin has distributed free backpacks and school supplies as part of this program. Avinash says, “The number of backpacks has grown from 500 to almost 10,000. Only ONE agent in the state is chosen for this award. We are so proud of Nelvin!” Want to know more? Meet the CORE Realty team at the Opening Celebration for the new location on Saturday, December 7th. Ella says, “We will host our party in the lovely courtyard adjacent to our new office...we invite all to join us for bites, wine and great conversation. See you there!” Until then, call or stop by the CORE Realty new location for all of your real estate desires!
To advertise, 281-235-0600
CORE Realty 281-494-0000 4675 Sweetwater Blvd. Suite A Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.CoreRealtyTX.com UPCLOSE ~ November 2019 ~ 21
Next Stop...
A Frequent Flier R by Amy Sharp
aleigh Bailes, Jr. has a go-to emergency room: St. Michael’s Elite Hospital. “My son Braden has a severe nut allergy, and he has come into contact with nuts several times. We always administer the EpiPen and go straight to the ER. We quit going to a big hospital after waiting for several hours. At St. Michael’s, they take you right back and you are seen by a doctor or nurse immediately. It’s like a concierge
ER. We’ve been taking our family there for about nine years.” While many of those visits were with Braden, during two it was Raleigh’s life that was saved. In 2017, Raleigh went to St. Michael’s when he was experiencing severe pain in his side and back. “They first thought it was my kidneys or kidney stones, but a scan showed it wasn’t. Then the doctor suggested
a scan of my lungs. I had two pulmonary embolisms and pneumonia.” “My second visit was this August. I was feeling really bad after a workout. I was about to run a Rotary meeting (Raleigh is President of Sugar Land Rotary), but a fellow Rotarian thought I should go to the ER. I had rhabdomyolysis.” Rhabdomyolysis is a serious syndrome due to a muscle injury. The dead muscle fibers release their contents into the bloodstream and serious complications can result, including kidney failure. “That time, I spent about 23 hours at St. Michael’s. Like always, they took great care of me.” St. Michael’s Elite Hospital has been providing top-notch emergency care for 13 years. Recently, they expanded to include inpatient hospital services. Founder Dr. Shannon Orsak says, “As a standalone emergency room, the amount of time we monitored Raleigh—about 23 hours—was the longest we could keep a patient before admitting them to a hospital. Today, with eight emergency room beds, two triage rooms, and seven inpatient beds, we are able to provide extended inpatient care should a patient require it.” Raleigh Bailes, Jr. is a practicing CPA and managing partner at Bailes Bates and Associates. He’s also a partner and financial advisor with Wealth Management Investment Advisors. For more information, visit www.bailesbatescpas.com.
St. Michael’s
The Grand
Expansion
bills all insurances, including Medicare. Your insurance MUST pay in-network benefits at the ER of YOUR CHOICE whether the emergency room you choose is “in-network” or “out-of-network.”
St. Michael’s Elite Hospital 16000 SW Freeway (at Hwy 6), Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-980-HELP (4357)
www.24hrer.com
HEALTH MATTERS WITH DR. STEVE HARRIS, DOCTOR OF CHIROPRACTIC WHERE PAIN RELIEF COMES NATURALLY
SCIATICA? HOW DO YOU SPELL RELIEF?
L
by Sara Adams
ast year Roi Swirczynski had such intense pain in the middle of the night that it woke him up. “I’m a fairly strong guy,” he says. “I take care of myself, and I maintain a pretty healthy lifestyle. When this pain came from out of nowhere, I was not thinking it was my back.” Over the course of two weeks, Roi lost about forty pounds and could barely walk or drive. At one point he was in so much pain he ended up in the emergency room, and that’s where he learned he was having an attack of sciatica. The emergency room doctors recommended Roi see a chiropractor. At the age of 47, Roi had never seen a chiropractor. He chose Dr. Steve Harris because he was really impressed with the online reviews he had read about Dr. Harris and Sugar Land Health Center. Sugar Land Health Center offers chiropractic treatment for people of all ages. Dr. Harris opened Sugar Land Health Center in 1982 and has been in practice for over 40 years. He offers a wide variety of chiropractic care modalities and associated therapies to help people with neuropathy and chronic pain. Dr. Harris helps his patients improve their overall musculoskeletal function and health by incorporating new technology and techniques that complement his safe and holistic approach. Through his years as a chiropractor, Dr. Harris has developed his own methods and treatments for every layer of the body to promote healing. His natural, noninvasive, gentle approach promotes relief from pain. By his first appointment, Roi couldn’t drive. He says, “I had to have my seventy-two-year-old mother take me. Everything was off. I hadn’t shaved. I could barely walk, even sitting was painful. The nerves in my entire body were crazy. But then, I get to Sugar Land Health Center and everyone was very welcoming. It is a soothing environment. When Dr. Harris worked with
me my pain immediately went down by 50%. Within the first week I was able to walk on my own. I felt so good. I told them on my way out, ‘Tell the miracle worker I’ll be back.’ I couldn’t believe the results were so fast.” Roi did go back to see Dr. Harris, who he now calls, “Doc.” His treatment plan included decompression, laser, electrical, and the Spinalator. Roi says, “Doc got me going. He gave me a different outlook on my health and has reversed the clock on my back. My mom and sister are talking about seeing Dr. Harris and I have recommended him to my friends. I'm amazed how this has improved my life.”
New Patient Special
COMPLIMENTARY Exam & Consultation
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(. .$125 . . . . .VALUE . . . . . . . .) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . If you live in pain, we are here to help.
281-980-1050 - Does not apply to Medicare or Personal Injury. - X-rays at regular charge. - Additional charges may apply.
Follow us! sugarlandhealthcenter @sugarlandhealthcenter DrSteveHarrisDC Check out our new look!
www.sugarlandhealthcenter.com
www.upclosemagazine.com
. . . . . . . . . . .CODE: . . . . . . .SWIRCZYNSKI19UP ............................ Bring this publication to receive the offer.
Sugar Land Health Center 281-980-1050 3425 Highway 6, Suite 101 (behind McDonalds near Williams Trace Blvd) Sugar Land, TX 77478 UPCLOSE ~ November 2019 ~ 23
OUTSMARTING CANCER in Sugar Land
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From screenings and diagnosis to the most advanced treatments, our leading cancer care is available in Sugar Land. We offer personalized guidance and support, so you can focus on healing, surviving and thriving.
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Our nationally recognized specialists are finding new ways to outsmart cancer.
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Sugar Land 281.205.4514 houstonmethodist.org/cancer-sl