2016 02 03 feb mar katy issuu

February-March 2016

Magazine

Keeping the

Promise

Keeping the

Promise

by Sara Adams

G

rowing up with a houseful of siblings (including an identical twin brother) in Wisconsin taught Troy Nehls a bunch about working things out. His late father, Edwin Nehls, served as a county sheriff in Wisconsin. Troy’s older brother, Todd Nehls, retired from his third term as the elected Sheriff in Dodge County, Wisconsin. Troy’s twin, Trever, retired from the Sugar Land Police Department in 2012 with 20 years of service and took over as Precinct 4 Constable. He is seeking re-election this year. Troy says, “My brother Terry’s been living here for years. Trever and I used to visit, and I knew this was where I wanted to settle down and raise my family. We love living close to Terry, Trever, and their families. Knowing our kids will grow up together, involved in this community means the world to me. My wife, Jill, and my girls Jenna, Cambry and Tori love Fort Bend as much as I do!”

Back in 2012, when Fort Bend County Sheriff Troy Nehls ran for office, he made several promises.

It was easy for him. Sheriff Nehls is a man who is comfortable making commitments and keeping his word. He has served for more than 20 years in law enforcement, as well as 21 years in the U. S. Army Reserve. Before retiring from the Army Reserves with the rank of Major, he was deployed to Bosnia, Iraq, and Afghanistan, and was awarded two Bronze Stars.

Prior to his election, the Uniform Crime Reports showed that the sheriff’s office had not solved more than 5% of burglaries in Fort Bend County in the past ten years. Under Sheriff Nehls’ leadership, the crime solution rate went up to 16%, and residential burglaries went down 32%. During that same time, overtime expenses went from $370,000/year to $86,000/year.

To summarize: overtime is down 77%, crime solution rate is up 300%, and burglaries are down 32%. All of this was accomplished by the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office while experiencing a population growth of about 100,000 residents. Nehls does not take all of the credit.

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www.upclosemagazine.com

Residential burglaries are down 32% under Sheriff Nehls leadership.

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Sheriff Troy Nehls, his wife, Jill Nehls, Principal of Jane Long Elementary, their girls Jenna, Cambry, and Tori along with four-legged family members Beau, Buddy & Boo. He is quick to say, “I surround myself with efficient, effective staff. The men and women in this organization are working very hard, I couldn’t be more proud of them.”

Delivering on another promise, Sheriff Nehls has taken the position of “team-builder” with area law enforcement agencies in order to provide the safest environment for county residents.

Improving relations between the agencies has resulted in growing the Fort Bend County Narcotics Task Force and better sharing of information and resources.

So much has been accomplished in just three years, but his greatest legacy may be S.C.O.R.E.—the Second Chance Opportunities and Re-Entry Education program in the Fort Bend County Detention Center. Utilizing commissary funds, Sheriff Nehls developed and implemented this inmate vocational trade school that offers classes in Life Skills, Basic Computer, HVAC, Electrical Training, GED and more. Inmates are given the tools and support to have a successful and productive reintegration back into the community, which can break the cycle of relapse into criminal behavior and create better outcomes for the inmates and the community.

“When I ran for office in 2012, I promised the voters of Fort Bend County that I would bring professionalism, accountability, and a culture of service to the sheriff’s office. I am pleased to report that we have done just that. I am proud of what we have accomplished, and I hope to serve the citizens of Fort Bend County for four more years.”

Your vote on March 1st will prove what we already know. Sheriff Troy Nehls is a real keeper...a promise keeper.

Troy Nehls

713-419-5994 O TroyNehls@gmail.com

www.VoteNehls.com

UPCLOSE Katy ~ Feb-Mar 2016 ~ 3

Spaghetti,

Celebrities,

and a

S

Great Cause

by Amy Sharp

ue Lockwood has known Don Kerstetter, owner of Classic without Classic Chevy!” says Sue. “They are extremely generous. From Chevrolet Sugar Land, and Mark Kolon, the General Sales storing our auction items to organizing everything...the support and Manager, for a long time. “We met through the Exchange graciousness of Classic Chevrolet is immeasurable.”

Club of Sugar Land,” says Sue. “The dealership is a longRemembering the graciousness of everyone at the standing supporter of the Exchange Club and our annual dealership, Sue turned to her friends at Classic Spaghetti Dinner.”

Chevy when looking for a new car. “Everyone was This year is no different. Classic Chevy is again one of the title sponsors just so nice,” says Sue. “It’s not a high pressure of the Exchange Club of Sugar Land’s 29th Annual Spaghetti Dinner. sales environment at all. To date I’ve bought three “It’s a really fun day and great food!” says Sue. “Local law enforcement cars from Don—two Corvettes and an Impala— agencies and firefighters—complete with eccentric costumes— compete and each experience has been the same. Wonderful. in a spaghetti sauce cook-off. Celebrity judges this year include Mike I consistently recommend them to people for an Meltser and Former Texans Player Seth Payne from Sports Radio 610. easy and enjoyable car buying experience!”

We have a children’s area with a cake walk, face painting, games and prizes. We again have a live auction with great prizes, and our silent auction will be conducted through Bid4Real.

From the comfort of your dinner table, you can find out if you’ve been outbid on your smartphone, and up your bid if you like. No more running back and forth to the auction to check your bids!”

A raffle and live entertainment complete this enjoyable evening out for a great cause. This fundraiser provides over $100,000 annually to Exchange Club of Sugar Land’s local non-profits including Child Advocates of 29th Annual Spaghetti Dinner Fort Bend, Fort Bend County Women’s Center, Friday, February 26, 2016, 5:30-8:30 PM Texana Center for Autistic Children, Fort Bend Fluor Corporation Cafeteria Seniors Meals on Wheels, Fort Bend Council on Substance Abuse, Crime Stoppers, YMCA, Dinner tickets — $25 adults, $5 children 7-12, DePelchin Children’s Center, ESCAPE Family children 6 and under eat free!

Resource Center, Literacy Council of Fort Raffle tickets — $100–Win a $5,000 gift certificate Bend and Exchange Club community service from Gallery Furniture or a Vacation Trip worth projects. $2,500. Ticket includes 2 adult and 2 child spaghetti dinners.

Don Kerstetter says, “The Exchange Club is an exemplary organization that improves the lives of all of us in Fort Bend County.

For more information and Classic Chevy is proud to support them in sponsorship opportunities visit any way we can.” “We couldn’t do the dinner

www.ecsl.org/spaghetti-dinner.php

281-491-9000 www.classicchevysugarland.com

SHOP FORT BEND

4 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ Feb-Mar 2016

13115 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478

A Global Icon and a

Katy

by Marie Page

W

hat do the Olympic Sports Complex in Athens, the Statue of Liberty, and the Kremlin have in common? You’ll find a Trane air conditioner in every single one of these historic landmarks. “Trane is a classic American success story,” says Gerald Svetlik, owner of True Fix A/C & Heating. In 1885, founder James Trane opened a plumbing shop and invented the Trane Vapor Heating System. His son Reuben, an engineer, worked with his father to create the Trane Company in 1913. Now, more than 100 years later, Trane is trusted around the world to deliver reliable comfort. True Fix is the oldest independent Trane Comfort Specialist in Katy. “We’ve been here for forty-four years, and we plan to be around to celebrate a century of service in our community!”

As a teenager, Gerald worked alongside his brother-in-law, Eugene Stepanek, who founded True Fix in 1972. Gerald took the State License exam in 1983 and received his Texas Air Conditioning Contractor’s License. He then worked many years in sales and managerial positions with other Houston businesses, including a commercial air conditioning company. But when Eugene was ready to retire...Gerald returned to his roots at True Fix to take the helm.

Like Trane, True Fix is all about giving you value over the long haul.

Gerald says, “We have been in this community for a long time. My wife Kim has been a Katy Realtor for many years. Our daughters Kathleen and Meagan, and our son-in-law Joe Kaupert are graduates of Taylor High School. Several of our employees are long time Katy residents and have been with us for many years. We will never lose sight of the fact that every person we help is our neighbor.”

“We learned early on that along with great service we needed a great product,” continues Gerald. “That’s why we teamed up with Trane, the company with over 100 years of reliability and innovation. The engineers at TRANE are the brilliant minds behind TruComfort technology...which takes a precision approach to cooling your home. The Trane XV20i gives you precise comfort by running at the exact capacity needed to keep your home comfortable. This allows the compressor, outdoor fan, and indoor fan to vary operating speed...saving you a ton of money when temperatures are at their highest. Customers rave about

Tradition

how these systems are remarkably quiet and extremely effective at removing humidity.”

True Fix is EPA and NATE certified, a BBB gold star member, and a member of the Katy Chamber of Commerce. Over the last century, Trane’s racked up countless recognitions and awards. Recently, Trane ranked highest in trust among Heating and Air Conditioning System Brands, according to Lifestory Research 2015 America’s Most Trusted Study, and Trane has been recognized by Green Builder Media for offering the “Greenest HVAC Products” in its 2015 Readers’ Choice Survey of building professionals.

True Fix customer Sharon Rhoads sums it up perfectly, “Your honest and professional approach in your work makes you the exceptional company that you are. It might be ‘hard to stop a Trane’...but it is even harder to stop True Fix. Thank you!”

Gerald adds, “The bottomline is: we know we can trust Trane...and you, our neighbors, can trust True Fix to keep you happy!”

True Fix A/C & Heating 281-392-9334 Greenbusch, Katy, TX 77494 www.truefix.com license#TACLB004843E.

UPCLOSE Katy ~ Feb-Mar 2016 ~ 5

Upscale, Yet Charmingly Texas Since 2012,

connoisseurs of upscale southern food from near and far have convened upon Dekker’s Mesquite Grill in Fulshear for fabulous food and fantastic atmosphere.

Here, Mike and Patty Knobelock have created a place to gather with friends. A place to relax and enjoy life. There’s live acoustic music Wednesday to Friday on a huge outdoor patio complete with fire pits for these chilly February nights.

Weather not cooperating? Check out the recently remodeled and extended back room. With three TVs and a second full service bar, it’s a great place to watch the game...or reserve it for your next party!

And when it’s time to eat...the food is incredible at this chef-driven restaurant.

Cooked Texas style—on a mesquite grill over an open fire—the seafood, steaks, mouth-watering hamburgers and chicken are super fresh and the portions are humongous for the price. Everything is accented with delicious sides, dressings and

sauces...all made fresh, in house.

And don’t overlook a real “customer favorite”—the specials. With five or six specials offered daily, rumor has it many of the regulars have never eaten from the menu... they always get a special! There’s truly something for everyone... including the kids.

All beef is certified Angus beef.

All fish is fresh, never frozen—the salmon is flown from Scotland and filleted in house and the seasonallyavailable giant king crab legs are brought in fresh from Alaska. The extensive wine list includes both value wines and some of the best wines on the market.

This upscale yet charmingly Texas eatery was recently voted “Best Patio in Katy” and “Freshest Seafood in Katy,” and is a “Diners’ Choice” OpenTable winner for 2015.

Dekker’s is absolutely the place to take the kids and enjoy a relaxed, yet upscale night out. Make your reservations today for any day of the week!

Dekker’s Mesquite Grill ~ 281-533-0909 8506 Syms St.Fulshear, TX 77441

www.dekkersmesquitegrill.net

Timely, Top-Notch

and Within Budget

by Marie Page

A

drian and Lisa Davilá O’Toole wanted a full update for their 1980s kitchen.

“We needed to take down a wall,” says Lisa, “opening the kitchen to the living area. Plus we wanted to rearrange the appliances, all new cabinets, granite, a gas stovetop with an updated hood, and new trim and baseboards.”

“We had a budget,” continues Lisa, “and were trying to hodge-podge the project ourselves, shopping around for flooring, cabinets and other items. We had read about Teri Gilberg, better known as the ‘The Re-Modelista,’ and we gave her a call for the construction. We talked back and forth several times. We were impressed by her thoroughness and her interest in making the finished product look excellent while staying in our budget. We showed her what we had picked during our shopping, and she gave her honest opinion. Some things we had chosen, like the floor, Teri thought was a good deal and recommended we go with it. Other items she thought we could do better. She would run and get samples for us, making sure we found exactly what we wanted.”

“We’ve remodeled before, and our experience was that you never know when crews will show up, and sometimes you have to chase your contractor down.

This time was different! Teri kept us up-to-date via text on what was going on. Her crews were sitting in our driveway at 7:45 for their 8am arrival. Teri checked in often in person, usually once early and again at the end of the day in case we had any concerns. She took on coordinating the entire project for us, even though some of it, like the floors, we had contracted ourselves. That was extremely helpful!”

When you remodel, inevitably, as the work progresses add-ons happen.

Adrian and Lisa’s home was no exception. “When we did add or change things, Teri worked with us and her highly-skilled crews made the adjustments with ease. The quality of work is really top-notch, we are very happy.

It seems like we were working on that kitchen forever, but looking back it was just about a month. That’s great for a full kitchen remodel. I’ve already recommended Teri to several friends, and I will be contacting her for the media room I have planned!”

Re-Modelista:

Your Home Renovation Specialist “She Gets the Job Done!”

832-535-2501 cell: 832-731-3191

www.theremodelista.com

UPCLOSE Katy ~ Feb-Mar 2016 ~ 7

Be Happier !

Feel Better, Look Better...

by Amy Sharp

Melanie Berglund met Lexie Barton eight years ago, when they were both emergency room nurses.

Today Melanie continues to provide ER care, and Lexie owns her own medspa, BeYoutiful Spa, right here in Katy.

“When I heard Lexie had her own medspa, I knew it was the place for me,” says Melanie. “Lexie is just so down to earth and easy to talk to—not pretentious or snobby at all. You can truly discuss anything with her, without feeling embarrassed, uncomfortable or ashamed. I’ve turned to her for hormone therapy, weight loss and skin care.”

BeYoutiful Spa is the first medspa in Katy to offer bioTE—bioidentical all-natural hormones in tiny pellets inserted just under the skin that release a steady supply of hormones into your bloodstream, adjusting with your activity levels. “It’s a complete life changer,” says Melanie. “My job is demanding, and I don’t feel the extreme fatigue and need for caffeine like I used to. I feel I have better mental clarity and I sleep better. Plus great dreams and a boost in sex-drive. It’s incredible!”

Melanie has lost 53 lbs since September on the HCG weight loss program medically supervised by Lexie. “It’s given me control...done away with my cravings for chocolate and bad food. I’m now on maintenance and I couldn’t be happier!”

And Melanie’s skin? People tell her it’s glowing! “Lexie takes care of the deep crease between my eyebrows and my crow’s feet with Botox. The Rezenerate Facials™ have left my skin more clear, my pores smaller, and faded my age spots. I just feel awesome.”

“Our mission here at BeYoutiful Spa is health, harmony, and happiness,” says Lindsey Crow, co-owner with Lexie. “We want to help you feel more like you.

As Melanie can attest, when you feel better, you look better and you’re happier. Give us a call and Lexie will walk you through everything, either over the phone or in a personal consultation...and all services are administered

by Lexie, a Family Nurse Practitioner. Let us help you feel amazing!”

BeYoutiful Spa | 281-394-1541 | 21416 Provincial Blvd, Katy, TX 77450 | www.beyoutifulspakaty.com

T U O K R O W E H DITCH T JOIN THE

just $5/class

or get unlimited classes for $70/month. No contracts and no registration fees...just fun!

will!)...that’s the icing on the cake.”

Know what’s even more fun? No commitments or contracts! At Cinthia’s Fitness Zone, whether you buy a class, a week of classes or a month, you are under no obligation to continue. And with classes offered Saturday morning, and both mornings and evenings on weekdays, you’re sure to find the time to slip a little dance party into your crazy day.

Cinthia is a native of Bolivia and has lived and taught Zumba in different countries around the world...including Mexico, Bolivia, Colombia and Indonesia. “I love that I get to deliver Zumba classes here in Katy, in the community where I live with my family,” says Cinthia. “And my commitment is to making sure the vibe of each class is charged with fun and fitness. Join us today!”

PARTY p

by Amy Shar

That’s the Zumba slogan! This Latin inspired dance workout is reportedly performed by more than 12 million people at 110,000 sites, in 125 countries around the world. Why so popular? “It’s fun, it’s for everyone, and it’s effective!” says Cinthia Valencia, owner of Cinthia’s Fitness Zone right here in Katy.

At Cinthia’s posh studio dedicated solely to Zumba, party-goers of all fitness levels get together for fun, dancing, friendship, strengthening, toning and weight loss. “The dance steps aren’t intricate or complicated,” says Cinthia, “and our instructors are never judgemental. When you come here, we want you to have fun and feel empowered. And if you get a workout in the meantime (and you 8 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ Feb-Mar 2016

y From now until March 31st, weekda , classes are

www.upclosemagazine.com

Cinthia’s Fitness Zone 832-612-0400 3815 N. Fry Rd., Katy Texas 77449 CinthiasFitnessZone.com

K

Your Project, Your Way

by Amy Sharp

evin and Stephanie Williams updated the pool at their Greatwood home and added an outdoor kitchen with the help of Bratton Pools. “It was a twophased approach,” says Kevin. “Pool renovation in the summer, outdoor kitchen in the fall. That way we got to enjoy our ‘new’ pool while the weather was still warm, and then this past fall we completed our master plan with an outdoor kitchen that incorporated design elements of the pool.”

One of the challenges on the Williams’ outdoor kitchen was space...not a lot of room in the yard. Kevin collaborated with Michael Bratton on the possibilities. “He had ideas, and I had ideas. Maximizing space was key, and together we worked out a plan that included extending the roof line off the back of the house. For me, it was crucial that the new section of roof looked like it had always been there, like it was part of the original construction.”

“Michael and the crew at Bratton Pools executed and accomplished the plan perfectly...down to the smallest details. The roof line looks incredible, and the outdoor kitchen incorporates elements—like the coping and split rock—from the pool, really tying it all together. From staining the kitchen ceiling to match

our new columns to mounting our outdoor television, every aspect of the project was taken care of and supervised by Bratton. The end result is just incredible...and we spend a lot of time out there. I love to cook anyway, and this let’s me be outside and mess around in the kitchen while watching football!”

“Michael is a really nice guy to work with and he did exactly what he promised…within my budget. I would refer Bratton Pools to anybody.”

“Your project, your way” says Kryshon Bratton, Michael’s wife and co-owner of Bratton Pools. “Everything we do is custom.

From pool construction and renovation, to outdoor kitchens, living areas, entertainment areas, fire pits and patio extensions, we help you create a backyard that fits your personality. For Kevin and Stephanie, the endeavor was a pool update, an outdoor kitchen and a seamless patio extension—in a master plan project that we split in two phases. What is your backyard vision? Give us a call and let’s get working on your design!”

Bratton Pools ~ 281-988-7700 www.brattonpools.com

UPCLOSE Katy ~ Feb-Mar 2016 ~ 9

premierlisting OFFERED AT $625,000

Tucked away in a private, secluded & gated community you will find this extraordinary lake front paradise! An entire home with a view of the breathtaking tropical waterfall, pool & lake! Large over-sized, wrapped front porch, grand entry foyer, dining room w/custom painted ceiling & chandelier, massive island kitchen w/stone wall bar opening to living area & matching stone fireplace, elegant master retreat & bath with large whirlpool tub & double-headed shower.

GRAND G WINDOWS & INTERIORS

EXPERIENCE. REFINED. RESULTS. Giesla Lazar brings a strong, 20-year successful career in Real Estate, Home Staging, Marketing, Advertising and Client Service.

281-690-0842

Giesla@lazarproperties.com

Transforming 2016 from Bland to Grand!

rand Windows and Interiors has a passion for taking your home’s design to a new level. Two-story drapery can make a phenomenal statement. Caron Lopez, owner of Grand Windows and Interiors, delivers you the style you have your heart set on! Are you looking for a spark of urban drama—contemporary, crisp, and sleek?

That’s what Douglas Hoffman and Misty Sanchez wanted. Misty says, “The draperies Caron and her team made for us are amazing! We couldn’t have asked for better quality or customer service. Even as they were at our home installing them, it was a fun and friendly experience. I recommend them to everyone.” Douglas is the branch manager of Nations Reliable Lending in Sugar Land and is a full service mortgage banker. “I know he has offered loans for gorgeous homes throughout Texas and I was excited to be a part of making his home gorgeous,” says Caron.

“In our unique two story showroom in Rosenberg we have samples sourced from around the world—thousands of fabrics and area rugs of luxurious textures and rich up-to-date colors, the latest in drapery and cabinet hardware as well as tile and granite. As a designated Hunter Douglas Showcase, our experts will give you premium service and valuable personalized advice about shutters, blinds, shades, and motorization.” How do you take your style to a new level? Take it from Bland to Grand! Call Grand Windows and Interiors—Caron and Joni will bring a special ambiance to one room or your whole home.

Grand Windows & Interiors

Anderson Properties

10 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ Feb-Mar 2016

Hunter Douglas Showcase Dealer 281-342-9160 1405 Avenue I, Rosenberg, TX 77471 Mon-Fri 9-5 or anytime by appointment grandwindows101@yahoo.com www.GrandWindows.com • www.GrandWindows.net

www.upclosemagazine.com

Bigger...It’s Not Necessarily Better!

by Marie Page

“ A stool cannot stand without all three legs,” says Bruce.

T

he two largest companies in the lawn care segment—TruGreen and Scotts Lawn Service—are now one. And you know what they say...Everything is bigger in Texas!

“I love Texas as much as anyone,” says Bruce Granger of NaturaLawn of America, “but in this case, bigger is not necessarily better. It’s no secret that in any industry, a large corporation works for the stockholders at the expense of service. But service is exactly what you need in your lawn care provider.”

When you work with NaturaLawn, customer service is of the highest priority. “Some of the other companies have received a lot of press lately for ‘ghosting’ lawns,” says Bruce. “Lawn service crews arrive at a home, do little to no work, and then charge the customer for the service ‘provided.’ That’s why NaturaLawn has a system of checks and balances in place to raise red flags. For example, we always weigh fertilizer that goes out against fertilizer that comes back in at the end of the

day. We know the square footage of the yards that were on the schedule...and if something doesn’t add up, we investigate.

Our promise is to never compromise service for the bottom line.”

NaturaLawn operates on what insiders call the ‘three-legged stool’ approach— proper watering, proper mowing, and proper fertilizing. “A stool cannot stand without all three legs,” says Bruce. “When it comes to your lawn, all three components are critical, and it’s crucial that they’re done properly. NaturaLawn not only helps you achieve the lawn you love, but we educate you in the process. Formulas exist to determine how often you should mow. Watering and fertilizer should be on a schedule... because when you do either of these too 



much or at the wrong times, it can have an adverse effect. Not only does your grass like the fertilizer and water...so do the weeds and fungus. But with the trifecta of proper mowing, watering and fertilizer...

Bruce Granger, his wife Lynn and Avalanche you’ll have the finest yard on the block.”

“We know you have a choice when it comes to lawn service, and we will go above and beyond to show you why we are the best around!”

Bruce Granger 281-392-2990 NaturaLawn of America Houstonwest.naturalawn.com

UPCLOSE Katy ~ Feb-Mar 2016 ~ 11

The Perfect Home for Your Lifestyle and Circumstances make informed decisions. Paula can handle everything. When we decided to rent out a property, Paula took care of the rental agreement, contract, etc. When we decided to build, Paula was with us every step of the way.”

Advising and helping when you have a change in lifestyle or circumstances...that’s what Paula does! “I’ve been doing this since 1984,” says Paula, “and I’ve watched the Katy area grow. There are a lot of factors to take into account when purchasing a home: which community, what school, what’s on the horizon for the area? I love that as their life changed and evolved, I was able to help Kristin and Jerry live in the perfect home again and again.”

Paula has been named a Top Producer for over 15 years, and for the EALTOR® Paula Rucky has assisted Kristin and last five she has been awarded the Five Star Real Estate Agent Award by Jerry King in both the buying and selling of three homes Five Star Professional Research. Her reputation and work ethic is evident in in Katy. her number of repeat customers like Kristin and Jerry. “I absolutely recom“Our first experience in buying and selling with Paula was mend Paula to be your go-to person for all things real estate,” says Kristin. back in 2008,” says Kristin. “Our boys were in Boy Scouts “She’s truly a nice person that really knows her stuff!” together, and we had become friends. We’ve chosen her again and again because we like her style and work ethic. She’s helped Paula Rucky, REALTOR A N D GR us choose rental properties and homes, find our family home, REMAX Hall of Fame * REMAX Top 20 - Houston and helped us downsize. Paula listens to what we are think- REMAX Platinum & 100% Club ing, taking the time to truly understand what we are looking Top Producer 2008 - 2015 * #1 Listing Agent, 2013 for. When you go out to look at homes with Paula, she has a Five Star Real Estate Agent 2011-2015 • RE/MAX Grand great feel for what we should be seeing (or not seeing!) in the Rucky Properties ~ 281-793-5779 ~ paula@ruckyproperties.com houses. Each time, we really feel her expertise helped us to www.ruckyproperties.com

R

®

8th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade And Celebration Featuring Houston’s Premier Irish Band

Godfrey’s Rangers!

The 8th Annual Fulshear St. Patricks Day Parade and Celebration, hosted by the City of Fulshear and the Fulshear Area Chamber of Commerce, is scheduled for Saturday, March 12, 2016, 4 PM – 8 PM in Downtown Fulshear. There will be authentic Irish Music, a Fly Over, Parade, Children’s activities, Shopping, and Food...this event has it all! This year’s Grand Marshall will be the New Fulshear High School Principal Daniel Ward and Fulshear H.S. Campus Athletic Director, The Fulshear Chargers Head Football Coach Oschlor Flemming.

The parade will kickoff about 4 PM beginning with a fly over by The Texas V-Tails! The parade will be moving East on First Street and then North on FM 359. Parade entries will be accepted through March 9th. All local businesses, organizations and residents are encouraged to participate.

At about 4:45 PM there will be a GREEN PIE EATING CONTEST in front of the stage sponsored by Van Holten Law. Godfrey’s Rangers will take the stage shortly after the pie eating contest about 5 PM. Godfrey’s Rangers are Houston’s premier Irish Band and longest running Celtic Act. Godfrey’s Rangers perform the traditional music of Ireland and Scotland. See history come to life in fiery jigs and reels, rousing marching songs, spirited sea shanties and stirring songs of freedom and haunting. Godfrey’s Rangers has been the official band of the Houston St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Parade Commission events for over 20 years.

If you’d like more information about this event, please contact Fulshear Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Assistant Amy Norvell at anorvell@fulshearareachamber. com or call 832-600-3221.

Parade Registrations and Vendor Forms can be found by visiting

www.FulshearAreaChamber.com 12 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ Feb-Mar 2016

To advertise, 281-235-0600

home

3

Quality Designer Furniture and Complete Home Design…

Deborah and her family have been Katy residents for more than 40 years. “My grandmother loved dolls and furniture,” says Deborah, “and I learned an appreciation for beautiful things at a very young age. I love that today I am able to help my neighbors create fabulous, unique homes that showcase the personalities of the people that live there.”

1

...all under the same roof! Tista’s Fine Furniture & Mattresses is not your typical furniture store. It’s your close-tohome exclusive venue for all things interior design!

4

At family-owned and operated Tista’s Fine Furniture, you’ll enjoy a lowest price guarantee on everything, and a 90 day sleep guarantee on all mattresses. Special styles range from Texas Hill Country, Old World, and Urban Chic to Traditional and Transitional. “Drop by the store anytime...let’s see what we can create for you!”

TISTA’S FINE FURNITURE & MATTRESSES 281-347-5289 5315 Hwy Blvd.

Katy, TX 77494 (Behind Texas Tradition) www.tistashome.com

2

“I love all things creative,” says owner Deborah Bautista.

“Here at Tista’s, our buyers shop worldwide to find very unique and wellcrafted items for your home.

We are a full service design store.

We carry everything you need, including carpets, window coverings and lamp shades. And when you shop at Tista’s, your experience doesn’t end with the sale. We offer a complimentary design service. We are here to assist with anything...single item selections to complete home interior design. Can’t decide what granite to put in the kitchen...I’ll accompany you to the yard. Can’t decide on paint color to truly showcase your new living room set, I can help! My passion is providing my customers with the absolute best customer service experience imaginable.”

UPCLOSE Katy ~ Feb-Mar 2016 ~ 13

Sugar Wars:The Cavities Awaken!

by Olivia Cane s a parent, do you find it nearly impossible to motivate your kids to take care of their teeth? Lectures on oral hygiene don’t really work on a six-year-old.

You’re pretty much guaranteed a blank stare and a yawn. Just try getting between a ten-year-old, a game controller, and a sugary soft drink!

That’s why every February, during National Children’s Dental Health month, the American Dental Association sponsors a new campaign with a cool kid-friendly slogan to help raise awareness about the importance of brushing, flossing, and avoiding sugary snacks. This year, as a tribute to the greatest cinematic event of the free world, they’re inspiring good dental habits with “Sugar Wars.”

“When kids enjoy something, it’s never a problem getting them to do it,” says Dr. Faisal Khan at Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental. “And every young Jedi needs a smile bright enough to deflect blaster fire. That’s why the secret coordinates to defeating cavities are 2min2x. That means brushing your teeth for two minutes, two times a day—once in the morning after breakfast and then again before going to bed.”

And since the fastest cruise ship in the Sugar Wars starfleet is the USS SweetSwatter, piloted by The Smileys and McGrinns and K9, it pays to remember

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that flossing once a day automatically gives you extra booster power.

“Flossing, brushing 2min2x, and limiting sugary junk foods and sodas pretty much makes you invincible,” says ever-popular Dr. Khan. “And when we as dental professionals make something fun, it’s a lot easier for us to get our point across. That’s why I encourage parents to bring their kids in for their first checkup around age one. Not that we’re expecting cavities, but this way we’re better able to make the experience something for your child to look forward to instead of dread.”

Call Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental today and see for yourself how Dr. Khan makes flossing FUN. Win the Sugar Wars once and for all!

Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental Dr. Faisal M. Khan, DDS 832-222-TOTS (8687) 7830 W. Grand Parkway S, Suite 270 Richmond, TX 77406 www.grandparkwaypediatricdental.com

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Santikos

John Louis Santikos

1927 - 2014 Visionary - Mentor - Philanthropist

by Amy Sharp

Much More than a Theatre in Your Neighborhood f you’ve driven down the Grand Parkway lately, you’ve seen the magnificent 180,000 square foot Santikos Palladium AVX. The building—with its 40 foot columns—is reminiscent of a legendary Greek palace, paying homage to the Santikos family heritage.

Santikos Theatres was founded in 1911 when Louis Santikos—a Greek immigrant— purchased a small theatre in Waco, igniting his path to becoming a pioneer in the Texas motion picture industry in San Antonio. In 1927, Louis sold much of his business and moved back to Greece with his wife. That same year his son John was born. Louis became a successful film distributor in Greece, but fear for his family’s safety was strong after Nazi occupation was followed by Civil War in Greece...and the Santikos family returned to San Antonio and Louis rebuilt his movie business.

After John graduated from St. Mary’s University, he became an apprentice to his father, ultimately taking over the business.

John learned the theatre business from the ground up. In 2013, Santikos Theatres expanded to Fort Bend County with the Santikos Palladium AVX. When you set foot inside a Santikos complex, you are immediately immersed in opulent grandeur…this is not your typical movie theatre! Fort Bend’s finest entertainment destination provides the latest advances in cinema technology. “Six of our 22 luxurious auditoriums are equipped with AVX, providing the ultimate audio and visual viewing experience and the highest standards of projection quality. This includes 4K digital projection, wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling screens and Dolby

Atmos premium sound system,” says Art Seago, President of Santikos Theatres. “These screens are 80 feet wide, making them the largest screens in Houston.”

Other amenities include 16 lane bowling with full service bar, cafés with a variety of dine-in or take-out options and Starbucks coffee. Four auditoriums feature luxury recliners and VIP Service with in-movie dining and friendly servers ready to bring your order directly to your seat.

The Santikos Palladium AVX is also the perfect location for corporate events and functions. With auditoriums that have seating capabilities of fifty to 400, it is ideal for small to large corporate events, groups, non-profit outings, birthday party celebrations, and special occasions.

“We are proud to carry on the legacy of John L. Santikos,” says Art. “His vision continues to be the driving force behind everything we do.”

Visit the Santikos Palladium AVX today for a full cinema and entertainment experience that is unique to the Houston community thanks to its leading innovation and technology.

Go to Santikos.com for more information on corporate events, show times and tickets.

Santikos Palladium AVX - West Houston Showtimes: 866-420-8626 Guest Services: 281-239-4200 7301 Grand Parkway, Richmond, TX 77407

www.santikos.com

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