2017 02 03 katy issuu

February-March 2017

Magazine

Check Your

BACKSIDE!

Backsid Check Your

M

by Amy Sharp

arch is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and Dr. Rachel Ellsworth, head of Colon and Rectal Surgery at our very own Houston Methodist West Hospital, is asking you to “Check Your Backside!” “We are proud to be part of the National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable’s ‘80% by 2018’ initiative,” says Dr. Ellsworth. That means 80% of adults aged 50 and older will be regularly screened for colorectal cancer by 2018.

“Colon cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death in men and women combined,” continues Dr. Ellsworth. “Getting screened for Did you know? colon cancer is no different from getting a mammogram. And it’s • Colorectal cancer is the important! If we catch the cancer second leading cancer early, the prognosis is excellent. killer (lung cancer is #1).

But that changes drastically as the • Both men and women cancer moves to advanced stages. are affected equally.

Today, only about 65% of our • Colorectal cancer often population over age 50 is getting starts with no symptoms. screened. We believe that if we • 75% of all new cases achieve 80% by 2018, 277,000 occur in individuals with cases and 203,000 colorectal no known risk factors. cancer deaths can be prevented • Colorectal cancer is by 2030.” curable when detected Does this mean you need a early. Check your colonoscopy? “Not necessarily,” backside! says Dr. Ellsworth. “While Medicare and most medical insurance plans will cover colonoscopy, there are other, more accessible tests. Tests that can give peace of mind or prompt further evaluation. The 80% initiative means any kind of screening...just do it sooner rather than later.”

2 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ February-March 2017

Dr. Ellsworth grew up in Maryland and did her internship and residency at Houston Methodist Hospital. Her fellowship training was completed at The University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. She’s board certified in both general surgery and colon and rectal surgery. “My approach to care is to provide compassionate, patient-centered care. When you’re treated here at Houston Methodist West, you have the gift of our team approach.

We offer complete comprehensive care from diagnosis and treatment to survivorship. We offer the expertise and benefits of the medical center right here in our community. Our oncology team communicates and collaborates with the patient during every step of care.”

Dr. Ellsworth is married to Houston Methodist West plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Warren A. Ellsworth IV. This past year, the couple welcomed now 7-month old daughter Isabel. Dr. Ellsworth participates in screening, education and continuity of care for her patients. “I love that we have the potential to provide a durable cure to colon cancer, not just prolong a patient’s life.

That’s extremely gratifying.”

ide!

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE MYTHS AND REALITIES OF COLON CANCER SCREENINGS AND MEET DR. RACHEL ELLSWORTH. March 28, 2017 6:30pm-7:30pm Mesquite Conference Room Houston Methodist West Hospital To register, visit houstonmethodist.org/events.

W E S T HO S P I TA L

Rachel Ellsworth, MD Houston Methodist Specialty Physician Group 832-522-3240 18400 Katy Fwy., Suite 560, Medical Office Building 1 Houston, TX 77094

UPCLOSE Katy ~ February-March 2017 ~ 3

Cutting-Edge, Hometown

Orthodontics

B

Forrest Orthodontics is conveniently open Monday through Thursday from 7:50 am to 5:00 pm, with emergency appointments available on Friday mornings. “We always have someone on staff available to answer questions by phone after our regular office hours. It’s my belief that your whole orthodontic experience should be comfortable--beginning to end,” says Dr. Forrest.

Time and again, Dr. Forrest has been recognized for his commitment to excellence in orthodontics. A multitude of Top Dentist and Top Orthodontist awards line the walls of his practice, but to his patients, he is just “the cool guy” next door doing great work. Call today to schedule a complimentary consultation!

by Marie Page

y day, Dr. Kim Forrest is an award-winning orthodontist, but his Katy neighbors of nearly 20 years know him as a great dad, an awesome family man, and an all-around cool guy! His three daughters—Austin, Skyler, and Summer—all love calling Katy “home.” Dr. Forrest says, “I’m blessed to be able to practice where I live. This place has changed a lot in 17 years, but there has been one constant: this community and our schools have been so good to me and my girls.

There’s a special place in my heart for the people of Katy, TX.” This is home for Dr. Forrest. Perhaps this is why his waiting areas give each person a sense of being in the comfort of their own home—with a warm comfortable place where you can enjoy a fresh baked cookie, watch a movie in the theater, or play a video game.

It’s a cutting-edge office and, make no mistake, Dr. Forrest’s orthodontic philosophies are just as innovative. Dr. Forrest says, “We invest in some of the most advanced technology in the field to provide our patients with comfortable, efficient service.”

The latest advancement at Forrest Orthodontics is the investment in the iTero® Element™ scanner. Dr. Forrest says, “Using this digital imaging system, we can get a clear and accurate picture of the mouth. It uses optical and laser scanning to achieve high precision and accuracy...which means I have an even greater capability to see exactly what’s going on in the mouth. Therefore, I can put together a precise orthodontic plan and show each patient the final outcome of their treatment. The iTero® Element™ is one of the best in its class. The patient’s experience is great, and most importantly, we are achieving a healthy, beautiful smile!”

4 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ February-March 2017

www.upclosemagazine.com

Forrest Orthodontics 281-392-4571 23922 Cinco Village Center Blvd, Suite 250 Katy, TX 77494 www.forrestortho.com

On The Cover Check Your Backside!

Founder and Publisher Gina Pizzini Editor Gina Pizzini gina@upclosemagazine.com

Fe br ua ry

17 -M arch 20

zine Maga

Business Editor Amy Sharp Layout and Design Night Sky Creative Account Executives

Sara Adams Sharon Ballint Sarah Reno Writers 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.

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UPCLOSE Katy ~ February-March 2017 ~ 5

BRING THE FAMILY ON OVER 7th Annual

Classic Chevy Sugar Land Chili Cook-off Saturday, April 8th 4pm-8pm at Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land

C

A Saturday Afternoon Chili Cook-off Honoring Our Local Heroes

lassic Chevrolet Sugar Land is excited to announce their 7th Annual Chili Cook-Off !! With the growth in popularity and attendance over the past six years, the big event this year will be held on a Saturday!

That’s right...no more rushed Thursday evenings.

Instead of leaving work early or scurrying over after work, chili teams can arrive early on Saturday, April 8th, and start cooking.

Families will also have extra time to fully enjoy this afternoon and evening of great food, fun and games.

This year, the Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land Chili Cook-off will be honoring our entire community of Law enforcement and Fire protection—the Heroes that keep our families safe, sound and protected from the harm and dangers of our times. Honorees include: The 100 Club, Police and Fire departments from Sugar Land, Missouri City, Stafford, Richmond, Rosenberg, and Meadows Place, along with the Sheriff and Constable departments of Fort Bend County. Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land General Manager, Jeff Sebastian states “This will be Classic’s grandest event ever !”

“We’re excited about the the move to Saturday,”

adds Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land Salesperson and event organizer, Jerry Parks. “More teams, friends and neighbors will be able to attend and celebrate the many wonderful services we all enjoy.

Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land, and our entire community can triumphantly contribute even more to the individual departments and heroes that make our cities among the best in the nation.”

Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land invites everyone, including business owners, clubs, families, individuals etc., to join in this effort to support and honor our local Heroes. Space always fills up quickly...and with the move to Saturday plus adding all of our cities Finest to the event, demand will even be higher. Reserve a spot TODAY for your Chili Cook-Off team or even become a Partner–Sponsor for this Great event !!!

For more information, or to become a partner, sponsor or enter a team, contact: Patty Werner 281-263-1321, pwerner@classicchevysugarland.com Jerry Parks 832-689-4421, jparks@classicchevysugarland.com

281-491-9000 www.classicchevysugarland.com

SHOP FORT BEND

UPCLOSE Katy ~ February-March 2017

13115 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478

www.upclosemagazine.com

Traditional, Specialty and Compounding

Medications

by Amy Sharp

Dr.

At Your Neighborhood Mom and Pop Pharmacy

Maryana Attalla’s childhood dream was to be a pharmacist. “I grew up in Egypt,” says Dr. Maryana. “And with the support of my loving husband, Dr. Milad Attalla, I realized my dream in 2006 when I graduated from the University of Houston.”

Dr. Maryana spent a year working in a big box retail pharmacy. “Everyday, I came home heavy-hearted,” says Dr. Maryana. “My passion, my dream, was to help people and take care of patients. But I felt there was no time. Patients were in and out. Some were on 10 to 15 medications—and I knew it could be less—but I wasn’t able to spend the time helping them. Others we handed brand new devices with no instruction on how to operate them. I’m a diabetic educator, and I feel it’s really important to sit down with these individuals and show them how the devices work. I want to be there for them.”

Seeing his wife’s frustration, Dr. Milad Attalla—a successful businessman with a phD in Theology—had an idea. Open a pharmacy where his wife could practice her way. A place where patient care was priority and customer service was a point of pride. In 2008, Katy Pharmacy opened its doors. “It was perfect,” says Dr. Maryana. “Not only could I truly help people, but having our own pharmacy allowed for flexible family time while our kids were small. By the grace of God we stayed open, and a couple years later we opened our second location.”

In the spirit of Dr. Maryana’s dream, at Katy Pharmacy you are never just a prescription number. The staff gets to know you by name...reminiscent of the mom and pop drugstores of yesteryear. It’s a family affair. The couple’s son George is a pharmacy technician and their IT person, daughter Julie—currently a high school senior—is in technician training, and twelve year old James frequents the store too.

In addition to traditional pharmacy offerings, Katy Pharmacy is also a specialty and compounding pharmacy. “I never like to tell a patient ‘no.’” says Dr. Maryana. “With compounding, we are able to make custom medications specifically for the patients’ needs. Medications can be compounded as

The staff gets to know you by name... reminiscent of the mom and pop drugstores of yesteryear.

It’s a family affair.

liquids, topical creams, suppositories, lozenges, lollipops, even animal treats...and they can be flavored! They’re a viable alternative for the elderly, kids, cancer patients that have trouble swallowing and your pets that just won’t take their meds.”

Many Katy Pharmacy compounding patients receive customized hormone replacement therapy. Dr. Maryana says, “When I see anxiety meds, weight loss meds and depression meds together, it’s usually a sign of a hormone imbalance.” If you feel you might benefit from hormone replacement therapy, Dr. Maryana does free consultations.

Grand expansion plans underway, Katy Pharmacy is set to open inside eight Harvest Market grocery stores. Dr. Maryana says, “I want to send out a thank you to all of my great and dedicated staff.

Without them, Katy Pharmacy would not be where it is today.”

Dr. Milad and Dr. Maryana invite you to enjoy their patient-centered pharmacy. Drop in anytime and say, “Hi!” Katy Pharmacy 281-578-1515 20005 Katy Freeway Katy, TX 77450 www.katypharmacy.com

UPCLOSE Katy ~ February-March 2017 ~ 7

Renewed Zest for Life

by Amy Sharp

A

t almost 50, Terry Glasscock was having issues. “Once, I nearly fell asleep riding my Harley. Around 2pm everyday, I needed a nap.

Even though I was working out two hours a day, I had gained more than 60 pounds. Something wasn’t right.”

A mutual friend convinced Terry to do a consult with Lexie Barton, FNP at Vitality Health & Wellness—where co-owners Lexie and Lindsey Crow’s passion is helping clients feel their best. Terry says, “We did bloodwork and discovered I had a thyroid problem...which I never knew. And my testosterone was so low, I should have been shopping for women’s clothing!”

“I noticed an immediate difference with thyroid meds. I no longer needed 19 cups of coffee a day. We also started all-natural testosterone pellets and Lexie warned me...one day I would be driving down the road, and I would notice the trees were green again. Was she ever right! I was driving along, and suddenly noticed how pretty everything was. It was like I was carefree and in high school again!”

“As a male in middle age, you face sexual dysfunction and reduced sexual desire. With the testosterone pellets, those feelings all came back along with a zest for life in all areas. I’ve improved my diet and continued my workouts. Now that my thyroid is in line, I’ve cut my body fat in half. I have a very visible six pack...something I’ve never had in my life. And I’m not done. My goal is 10% body fat. It’s tremendous success with diet and exercise, and none of it would have been possible without the testosterone and thyroid meds. And that’s not all that’s changed. Along with improved energy, my focus is amazing. I suspect together with my thyroid, stress from my job was contributing to my weight gain. Today, I’m a lot more mellow. You really don’t know how bad of shape you are in until you feel better. I’m truly blessed...Lexie and all of the girls at Vitality changed my life. They are making 50 the new 30 and it feels fantastic!”

before

After!

Vitality Health & Wellness www.vitalityhealthandwellness.info

281-394-1541

21416 Provincial Blvd, Katy, TX 77450

On March 2, 1836, Texas officially declared independence from Mexico and the Republic of Texas was created. To celebrate, your Fulshear Area Chamber of Commerce is throwing a Texas-sized celebration!

MARCH 4, 2017

27043 Farm to Market 1093, Richmond, TX 77406 (behind the church)

to Celebrate Texas Independence Day!

Enjoy “Texas food” trucks Hear a reading of William B. Travis’s inspiring “Victory or Death!” letter

Watch “The Alamo” on the big screen

Enjoy award-winning, legendary Texas entertainment!

Fulshear Area Chamber of Commerce Don McCoy - Executive Director 832-600-3221 8 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ February-March 2017

PAULINE REESE 2012 Texas Music Awards Female Vocalist of the Year & Entertainer of the Year

JOHNNY RODRIGUEZ Texas Country Music Hall of Fame Member.

Recorded Fifteen #1 Country Hits

New Year,

New Resolutions!

I

by Olivia Cane

f you’re like a lot of people, you recently made a few New Year’s resolutions. Maybe you vowed to lose weight, go to the gym or to quit binge-watching “House Hunters” until 2am. Here we are in February...are your resolutions still going strong? How about making a resolution that’s easy to keep: Regular maintenance on your heating and air conditioning systems!

As the oldest independent Trane Comfort Specialist in Katy, True Fix A/C & Heating understands the value of heating that warms all corners of the house and air conditioning that cools without breaking the bank. But in order to keep your systems running at peak operating efficiency, you must perform regular maintenance on them. “FebruaryMarch is a great time to schedule your maintenance checkup,” says owner Gerald Svetlik. “You don’t want to wait until it’s 90+ outside and your system stops. Nipping small problems in the bud may protect you from major equipment failure down the line.”

“Even if you don’t suspect any problems with your heating or air conditioning,” continues Gerald, “it’s smart to have your system inspected, serviced and cleaned twice a year to make sure it will be there for you when you need it the most. As your system runs, it accumulates a lot of dust and dirt... which can gum up condensers, heating coils and air filters. The system loses its operating efficiency and then your energy bills start creeping up. The electric motor that drives the compressor is cooled by proper refrigerant levels. Low levels may cause the motor to overheat and shorten the life of the compressor.

For this very reason, inspections pay for themselves!”

And if there are major problems...do you repair or replace? Gerald says, “A general rule of thumb is to consider a new system if yours is over ten years old… so that you can take advantage of maximum operating efficiency and energy savings. Trane has some of the most efficient systems on the market, including the high-efficiency XV20i Variable Speed TruComfort technology system. As a Trane Comfort Specialist, 0% financing is available today. Here at True Fix we can help with the repair or replace dilemma. Our promise is to give you a no-pressure rundown of the information and options you need to make the best decision for your household.”

Katy area residents can rest easy knowing they are in the best of hands. True Fix is EPA and NATE certified, a BBB gold star member, and a member of the Katy Chamber of Commerce. Their reputation for service, quality of product and professionalism has earned them countless recognitions and awards, not to mention accolades from customers like M. Easton, who in a letter said, “I wanted to thank you for coming to fix my furnace. I am enjoying the heat that it now provides.

Special thanks to Daniel, Roy and Adalyd. They were all profesTrue Fix A/C & Heating sional and very nice! Good employees you have.”

281-392-9334 Ready to make good on that new resolution? The team at True Greenbusch, Katy, TX 77494 www.truefix.com Fix is waiting for you!

We

KATY!

license#TACLB004843E.

UPCLOSE Katy ~ February-March 2017 ~ 9

Get More from Lone Star Floors

No Need to Shop Around!

by Marie Page

L

ocal real estate agent Tina Yeriazarian found Lone Star Floors when they opened their doors in Katy more than 15 years ago. “I was driving by and stopped in. Co-owner Mohamed Naser and I quickly became friends. He’s just a great guy.”

Since that meeting, Mohamed and Tina have met for tea on several occasions, and Tina has contracted Lone Star Floors multiple times to do upgrades on both her current home and her previous home. “We’ve done flooring throughout my houses. They put in my new shower. They’ve done flooring at my son’s house and a shower for my sister, too. And I’m not done yet. So much more to do!”

When Tina moves on to her next home project, she won’t be shopping around. “It’s a trust thing.

The crews at Lone Star Floors never cut corners.

I’m very comfortable with the work they do, and I know they will be around tomorrow. A few years after my shower was put in, I noticed a little peeling and it needed to be regrouted. Mohamed sent someone out, and they took care of it. If I call or text about anything, someone responds right away. I trust Lone Star Floors and I trust the crews they send to my house. That’s peace of mind.”

Owned by Mohamed, together with his cousins Ziad Mukhaimer and Imad Mansour, this familyowned and operated business has enjoyed an A+ rating with the BBB every year since it’s inception.

But their biggest accolades come from customers like Tina: “I stand behind Lone Star Floors. As a real estate agent, I repeatedly use them in my own home. That speaks volumes!”

Local real estate agent

Tina Yeriazarian’s

story

Lone Star Floors ~ 3 Locations 281-398-2319 873 South Mason Rd. #300, Katy, TX 10009 Highway 6 South Sugar Land,TX 281-564-1345 24627 I-45 North Suite # A The Woodlands/Spring, Texas 832-813-0813 www.lonestarfloors.com

DENTAL Health

3 Great Ideas for Getting Your Kids to Brush Their Teeth

by Olivia Cane

1. Incorporate a favorite stuffed animal. “If ribery won’t do it. Your child you bring a toy into the bathroom, your knows the ropes and knows child can brush its teeth, too. That way, your weak spots. And no jokeyhe’ll feel less pressure rhymey routine is going to get a kid about doing something to do it either. As every child will he doesn’t want to do.” remind you in so many words, they weren’t born yesterday. So what 2. Set a timer. “We’re aiming for a full two does a parent have to do to get a minutes of brushing here, so being able to bright, charming little rascal (or rascalette) to brush their see and hear the time is very helpful to a teeth? child, especially if you let him set it.”

“The great news is it’s easier than you think,” says Dr. Faisal M. Khan, DDS of Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental. “Kids have 3. Let your child choose his own tooththeir own language, separate from adults. But once you learn brush and toothpaste. “A fun toothbrush how to speak ‘kid,’ you’re in.” does wonders. And some adult tooth“Speaking kid” is something Dr. Khan does very well, which pastes are too strong for young palates.” is why his waiting room is bursting with toys, games, a movie, and exciting nooks to explore. There’s a magical under-the-sea What else? “Come see us at Grand playland with tropical fish frolicking on the walls and a beach- Parkway Pediatric Dental. Regular checkups themed extravaganza in every room—including examination are the best way to keep your child on track.” tables masquerading as surfboards, a Turtle Room and a Dolphin Cove. “A happy patient is an easy patient,” says Dr. Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental Khan. “Going to the dentist should be a fun experience, not Dr. Faisal M. Khan, DDS something they dread.”

832-222-TOTS (8687) So what are Dr. Khan’s top three recommendations for get- 7830 W. Grand Parkway S, Suite 270, Richmond, TX 77406 ting your little pirate to brush his teeth? www.grandparkwaypediatricdental.com

B

10 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ February-March 2017

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Dream T

TRICIA TURNER PROPERTIES

by Amy Sharp

he decision to buy or sell a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make, not to mention a home is one of your biggest investments.

You want the broker best qualified to take you through the process.

You want someone to take your dreams and make them come true. You want Tricia Turner..

Tricia started her career as an apartment leasing agent at age 18. That grew to apartment management, and in 1992—at age 22—she earned her Texas real estate license. Since then, she’s worked for herself. She’s been associated with nearly every big box real estate company out there. While her kids were young, her entrepreneurial spirit led her to owning and operating a tanning salon for six years before returning to the real estate world. She has also been a licensed loan officer, earning her Loan Officer’s License in 2004. At one point she even owned and managed 24 rental properties. “But what was missing,” says Tricia, “was owning my own office. It was something I’d always dreamed of.” Today, she’s made that dream come true. Tricia completed further education and training, and obtained her real estate Broker’s license in January of this year. Tricia Turner Properties is the culmination of Tricia’s experiences and dreams.

Spend a few minutes with Tricia, and she quickly becomes your friend. She’s very transparent...an open book. “I’ve been in this business a long time. My clients are clients for life. I feel it is my responsibility to go above and beyond to make sure

www.TriciaTurnerProperties.com

Living Her

every one of them is taken care of and happy.

I wake up at 4am every morning and my mind is racing with ideas. My daughter tells me I’m obsessed with real estate. It’s true...I love what I do. I’m very blessed.”

Tricia’s a huge believer in giving back and helping people. It’s evident in the way she treats her clients, and her passionate work throughout our community. She serves on the advisory board for Texana—the organization that provides behavioral healthcare and developmental disabilities services to residents of a six county area, including Fort Bend. She also serves on the Fulshear Steering Committee for Texana. Tricia is an ambassador for Child Advocates of Fort Bend, and a member of the Brazos Rotary Club and Fulshear Area Chamber of Commerce. Tricia and her family are regulars at Parkway Fellowship and Lakewood.

Due to her many years in residential real estate, Tricia has also put together a website, which is FREE for all to use, and contains numerous local businesses to help with all of your home repair needs. That website is called: residentialservicedirectory.com Tricia, her husband Van, and children Joshua, Justin and Ava Gustafson are your Fulshear neighbors. Tricia can’t wait to open her new office...Tricia Turner Properties. “We’ll be right next to Freckles on FM359. We are set to open our doors May 1. Watch my Facebook page for events and promotions. It’s going to be lots of fun!”

Tricia Turner Properties 832-563-0916 www.triciaturnerproperties.com

UPCLOSE Katy ~ February-March 2017 ~ 11

Is Your Lawn Dead?

by Marie Page

A

lot of lawns are looking brown this February. But are they dead? Local NaturaLawn of America owner and lawn expert Bruce Granger says, “Probably not! But it’s a wait and see situation.”

“We experienced a significant freeze for our area in the middle of January,” continues Bruce. “And if your grass wasn’t brown before that, the cold probably sent it into dormancy. It’s possible you will experience some winter kill, but you won’t know for sure until the grass begins growing again.”

The other culprit? Fungus activity. “Fungus is a natural component of the soil,” says Bruce. “And when the high and low temperature in a day adds up to about 150, the likelihood of the fungus activating is high. Our falls are ‘perfect storms’ for fungus activity. Things like brown patch activate and can start turning your yard brown in a circular pattern.” The bad news? Fungus can-

Real

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not be eradicated. But you can protect your grass before the fungus activates.

“Here at NaturaLawn, we recommend the first treatment about the 3rd week in August, and retreating the 3rd week in September and again in October to limit the fungus activity. Because trying to treat fungus after you see the symptoms is like trying to get the flu shot after you have the flu. It doesn’t work.”

And if you didn’t treat fungus last fall? “No worries,” says Bruce. “Brown patch won’t kill your grass, and the grass will recover in the spring. Even if you did experience a few spots of winter kill in January...they’ll grow back in a couple of months. And don’t forget to start your fertilization program and lawn management around Valentine’s. You can do a one time low cutting to take the brown leaf tissue off and expose the soil to the sun. Then get a pre-emergent down to suppress summer annual weed growth. Pre-emergents stop weed seeds from growing. Because like fungus, weeds are much harder to control once you see them!”

NaturaLawn of America lawn care programs are customized to the needs of each individual lawn, including aeration, insect control, 100% pesticide-free lawn care and organic-based lawn care. Their goal is to work with your complete yard environment to create a naturally healthy lawn that is sustainable.

Call Bruce anytime with questions!

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

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281-578-3800 1711 S Mason Rd. Katy, TX 77450 www.redriverbbq.com 12 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ February-March 2017

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• Stationery • Hot Stamping • Invitations • Scanning • Gifts • Greeting Cards

Party Invitations Cards, Gifts and More...

281-536-4900

8030 FM 359 South Fulshear, TX 77441 Monday-Saturday 10:00 - 6:00

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Blessed at Belhaven

by Marie Page

C

West Houston Campus 281-579-9977 15115 Park Row, Houston, TX 77084 houston.belhaven.edu

athy Mitchell was once homeless and had no place to go. “Janiqua, Toya, Tiffany and the rest of my daughters have college degrees,” says Cathy. “And I thought, ‘You know what Mom...you can do it too.’” So when Belhaven University visited Cathy’s church, Cathy felt like God was speaking to her. “Here was a school where I could get an education and learn about God at the same time. Just a blessing.”

Cathy earned her associate degree from Belhaven last April. “I love the professors and the counselors.

They are very patient, willing to help, and it’s obvious their goal is to make sure you understand what you are learning. Plus, it’s a great schedule that allows me time with family, time to work, and still have the opportunity to get a degree. I love the five week classes that earn three credit hours.

On average, I have 15 to 20 people in my class... sometimes a little smaller, sometimes a little bigger.

I truly believe that education is the key to success if you put God first and I’m so thankful I found Belhaven.”

Not only was finding Belhaven a blessing, Cathy was double blessed to also find her life’s ambition.

She’s still at Belhaven, where she will earn her bachelor’s degree this coming fall. “When I started back to school, I had no direction. But about the time I enrolled at Belhaven, I began working as a paraprofessional with special needs children. What a blessing that has been. I plan to get my certification in special education. These children have a lot of heart. Many of the regular population kids at my school take life for granted. But not these kids. They are willing to learn and have hearts of gold. I love teaching them.”

Belhaven University has been repeatedly named one of “America’s 100 Best College Buys.” Located in the Energy Corridor, this program delivers accelerated adult education and both bachelor’s and master’s degrees that are tailored to the needs of busy working adults like Cathy. Financial aid is available to those who qualify.

“I’m always telling people to give Belhaven a try,” says Cathy. “It’s an all around great place, and they make it really easy to go back to school at a later age. It’s been a very positive experience for me. A blessing.”

UPCLOSE Katy ~ February-March 2017 ~ 13

Fashionable and Reasonable

with

Home Design

by Marie Page anet Byrd met Deborah Bautista, owner of Tista’s Fine Furniture and Mattresses, years ago. “Her kids grew up with my family,” says Janet. “Her daughter was a friend of my brother.”

Now with a home and kids of her own, Janet has enlisted the services of Deborah and her store on many occasions. You see, Tista’s Fine Furniture is not your typical furniture store. Deborah has a lifelong passion for home design. A passion that she honed as a young designer, designing for such luminaries as Redd Foxx, Wayne Newton, Siegfried & Roy and Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas. That fine eye for design is what Deborah now provides to her hometown of Katy.

“She’s completely redesigned three rooms for me,” says Janet.

“Most recently, my son’s room...taking it from little boy to young adult. When Deborah designs a room, she does everything: paint, furniture, accent pieces, rugs, artwork. For the wood ceiling in my son’s room, Deborah recommended we not stain, but look at a vinegar and water wash using four kinds of wood. She showed us a picture and my son loved it. Deborah provided detailed instructions that I was able to give to my painter. She’s also available to help with construction when needed. She sees the design through to fruition. She’s very good.”

In addition to full room design, Janet has turned to Deborah for help in picking out furniture and accent pieces in other rooms. “When you are looking for a piece, Deborah sits down with you to understand what it is you are looking for. If she doesn’t have something in the store, she peruses

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14 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ February-March 2017

catalogs with you to find the perfect piece. She’s very patient and her prices are very reasonable. I just love her.”

With styles ranging from Texas Hill Country, Old World, Urban Chic, Traditional and Transitional, Tista’s Fine Furniture & Mattresses not only has a wide vocabulary of home decor looks, it’s also priced 30% lower than any competitor. Like she’s done for Janet, Deborah’s job is to take your dreams and turn them into reality.

You can call to schedule a free in-home consultation with Deborah, which will include furniture, interior painting ideas, window treatments, art, mirrors, and rugs.

Janet hasn’t yet decided on her next redesign project, but she knows it’s inevitable. “My husband says he works for me to redo the house!” But one thing is for certain...when the time comes, Janet will enlist the help of Deborah. “She’s just wonderful and I absolutely recommend her. In a heartbeat!”

TISTA’S FINE FURNITURE & MATTRESSES

281-347-5289 5315 Hwy Blvd., Katy, TX 77494 (Behind Texas Tradition) www.tistashome.com

www.upclosemagazine.com

Choose

Tap

Water FOR A

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by Amy Sharp ebruary is National Children’s Dental Health Month and this year the ADA is highlighting the value of drinking tap water. Why tap water?

1. Tap water is fluoridated, and fluoride in optimal amounts is very good for teeth. It strengthens the enamel.

2. The water protects the mouth by rinsing away food debris that could lead to tooth decay.

3. Your child’s teeth receive a topical application of fluoride each time they take a drink.

4. Because your child is consuming the water, the fluoride also gets incorporated inside the tooth structure of developing teeth. This is especially important for children 12 and under...the critical years when adult teeth are developing.

An added bonus? “The price is right!” says Dr. Shilpa Chandiwal, DDS of DENTIST LOCATIONS CARE Healthy Teeth Pediatric Dentistry. “Bottled water is expensive and sugary drinks are both expensive and detrimental to your child’s teeth and health. Tap water is readily available right there in your home. Kids as young as three can grab a cup and fill it up themselves. With the exception of reverse osmosis, the fluoride stays in the water with any filtration system. It should be the drink of choice in every household!”

This month alone, Dr. Shilpa will speak to several school groups about the importance of oral hygiene. She will talk about the importance of brushing twice a day, flossing, and a healthy diet. She will encourage kids not to share food and drinks, even among family members. “I always impress upon children how important it is not to transfer germs person to person.” And she will encourage regular visits to a dentist. “The rule of thumb is to start visiting Dr. Shilpa Chandiwal, DDS the dentist around age one. But if your child hasn’t started yet for whatever reason, it’s never 5300 Ranch Point Drive, Suite #B too late. At Healthy Teeth Pediatric Dentistry, we’re here to make going to the dentist easy and Katy, TX 77494 enjoyable for your child and for you. And cavities in kids grow faster than cavities in adults...so 713-234-1002 it’s good to catch them early, and even better to take preventive measures.”

Most pediatric dentists will apply a topical fluoride during checkups. Dr. Shilpa recom- 4907 Sandhill Dr., Suite E mends a fluoride mouthwash at home for kids over six. But the easiest preventive measure of Sugar Land, TX 77479 all that benefits both the surface of the teeth and the internal structure? A cool drink of water 713-955-2100 right from your tap. www.healthyteethpediatricdentistry.com

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