August-September 2017
Magazine
theDoc Edition
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Caring for the by Amy Sharp
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Family Eyes
ore than seven years ago, John and Lisa Santo Salvo stopped into Today’s Vision in Cinco Ranch and made an appointment. Lisa says, “We were searching for an eye doctor for my parents so we stopped into Today’s Vision in Cinco Ranch and met Dr. Mostaghimi. After a positive experience, our entire family switched over and Dr. Ali Mostaghimi has been our family eye doctor ever since!” John has glaucoma and decreased vision over the years. John says, “For every condition and treatment, Dr. Mostaghimi takes time to explain the alternatives and the pros and cons of each. Then he makes a recommendation of what he thinks is best. He stays current on new technology, and that is refreshing. I was also one of the first patients Dr. Mostaghimi fit in scleral contact lenses.” Scleral contact lenses are large-diameter gas permeable lenses specially designed to vault over the entire corneal surface and rest on the “white” of the eye (the sclera). “The scleral lenses work really well for me and have improved my vision tremendously!” adds John. Lisa and the kids see Dr. Mostaghimi for yearly checkups. “I had LASIK years ago, and now Dr. Mostaghimi has fitted me in reading
glasses. The kids both have contacts, and I love the way Dr. Mostaghimi treats them. They’re at an age where they can go by themselves. I never worry about a ‘fast one’ being pulled on them. Dr. Mostaghimi is down-to-earth and knowledgeable, and I love his staff and office. I trust them 100% with our eye health.” When Dr. Mostaghimi opened Today’s Vision Cinco Ranch in 2009, he had one requirement of everyone in his office: Be nice! The Santo Salvo family has seen this philosophy in action. John says, “The kids don’t always tell us when they’re running Dr. Ali Mostaghimi out of contacts or when they have lost some and the type of contacts they wear are not always readily available. Since Dr. Mostaghimi deals with hard to fit contacts recommending their surgeon. We absolutely they have always had samples when we ran recommend Dr. Mostaghimi and Today’s short. Dr. Mostaghimi and his staff work Vision Cinco Ranch!” hard to make you feel important and to To schedule an appointment visit www. satisfy your needs. And the office is flexible. tvcincoranch.com or just give them a call. They’ve accommodated my busy schedule, Today’s Vision in Cinco Ranch will care for and I’ve taken advantage of their Saturday all the “eyes” in your family! hours. Dr. Mostaghimi is a genuinely nice person.” Today’s Vision Cinco Ranch Lisa’s parents and her sister are also patients 281-347-EYES (3937) at Today’s Vision in Cinco Ranch. “Dr. 23701 Cinco Ranch Blvd Suite #170 Mostaghimi has seen my parents through Katy, TX 77494 cataract surgery,” says Lisa, “including www.tvcincoranch.com
John and Lisa Santo Salvo along with Lisa’s parents Hermann and Antonia Groombridge, her sister Michelle and son Joe. Daughter Laura not pictured. 2 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ August-September 2017
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LEARN the symptoms. LISTEN to your bodies. ACT by seeking care. Gynecologic Cancer Care that’s Close to Home by Amy Sharp
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eptember is gynecologic cancer awareness month. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 98,000 women in the United States will be diagnosed with a form of gynecologic cancer this year. For the past three years and counting, gynecologic oncologist Dr. Joshua Kilgore has been caring for area women affected by gynecologic cancers right here at home, at Houston Methodist West. Dr. Kilgore says, “I enjoy all of it. I get to take care of my patients. This isn’t just surgery, and then I don’t see them again. I take care of these women through diagnosis, chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. Whatever’s necessary.” Gynecological cancers include cervical cancer, endometrial cancer, vaginal cancer and ovarian cancer. Dr. Kilgore says, “Cervical cancer is the most common, and the second most common cause of death from cancer in women worldwide. But it’s also one of the most preventable types of cancer. Both cervical and vaginal cancer can be detected by a screening Pap smear before more noticeable symptoms appear. This is why it’s imperative that women 21 and older make sure they have an annual gynecologic exam and Pap smear. Girls and women ages 13 to 26 should also consider the approved vaccine to prevent some of the most common types of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes cervical cancer.” Endometrial cancer commonly occurs in women who have already gone through menopause. “There are several well-known risk factors for endometrial cancer,” says Dr. Kilgore, “including obesity, diabetes, hypertension and chronic anovulation.” Ovarian cancer causes more deaths than any other cancer of the female reproductive system. Dr. Kilgore says, “This is true. But breakthroughs in treatment options have made ovarian cancer much more manageable. In fact, due to advances in technology, women with endometrial cancer, cervical cancer and early ovarian cancer are all candidates for surgery using laparoscopic or robotic approaches. The benefits of these minimally Dr. Joshua Kilgore invasive techniques over the traditional open technique include smaller incisions, decreased blood loss, a shorter hospital stay and quicker recovery. We are proud to offer these advanced surgical options to our patients at Houston Methodist West.” Dr. Kilgore grew up in Utah. His medical training took him all over the country, including New York Medical College, The University of Washington Medical Center,
WEST
SEPTEMBER IS GYNECOLOGIC CANCER AWARENESS MONTH Do you know the Gynecologic Cancers? Cervical Ovarian Uterine Vaginal Vulvar
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Meet Dr. Kilgore
at a brunch with Women’s Health Specialists at Falcon Point Hosted by Houston Methodist West Hospital Saturday, Sept. 23 | 10 a.m. to Noon The Club at Falcon Point 24503 Falcon Point Drive Katy, TX 77494 The event is free, but registration is required. Please register at houstonmethodist.org/events or by calling 832.522.5522.
and a Gynecologic Oncology fellowship in Chappel Hill, NC. Today, Dr. Kilgore is enjoying life in Fulshear with his wife and five kids. Dr. Kilgore says, “I love that I never have to send my patients far away for treatment. They’re treated right here at home with the best treatment options available at Houston Methodist West Hospital.”
Houston Methodist Gynecologic Oncology Associates 832.522.8360 18400 Katy Frwy., Medical Office Building 1, Suite 390 Houston, TX 77094 houstonmethodist.org/west
UPCLOSE Katy ~ August-September 2017 ~ 3
Ensuring You Get The Very Best
Plastic Surgery by Marie Page
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n the words of Dr. Eric Humble, founder of Sugar Land Face & Body Plastic Surgery: “My reward begins with my goal of bringing out my patients’ love of life.” And the people have responded. Patients near and far have sought out Dr. Humble’s holistic view towards the concept of beauty and rejuvenation. His practice has grown to include the very best in not only plastic surgery, but also aesthetics and dermatology. And after careful consideration and reflection, Dr. Humble is excited to welcome a second plastic surgeon to his team: Dr. Olga Bachilo. A graduate of Bellaire High School and Rice University, Dr. Bachilo attended medical school at the Texas A&M University System Health Science Center, and completed a six year residency in plastic surgery at UTMB Galveston. “I enjoyed all of my rotations in medical school,” says Dr. Bachilo. “But surgery I enjoyed the best because it gave me the ability to help the patients directly and be able to see immediate results. I also like the diversity and complexity of Plastic Surgery. There is an ability to operate all over the body and there is always more than one approach available, so it is always different.” Dr. Bachilo is pleased to join the team
at Sugar Land Face & Body. “The people here are wonderful, and Dr. Humble’s approach is in line with mine. We both believe in superb, individualized patient care. It really makes a difference. And I’m big into safety and education. I believe patients should be wellinformed about both the risks and benefits of any procedure, so they can make an educated decision about their care.” Together with her husband Dmitry Kislyuk and daughter Emma, Dr. Bachilo is excited to move home to Houston. “Dmitry has a huge family, and we just love hanging out with family and friends.” Dr. Humble says, “When my wife Dr. Lin Humble and I set out on this mission, our goal was to be a state of the art cosmetic surgery practice. We would not be where we are today without our team. We recently welcomed dermatologist Dr. Filiberto Cedeno Laurent. Dr. Cedeno Laurent is Harvard trained and fluent in Spanish. Both he and Dr. Bachilo are committed to my vision of keeping this practice a safe and welcoming place where patients can reach their
goal of finding happiness in the way they look and feel...even if the course of action means a less invasive (and less expensive) method to achieve the desired look. The first step in this process is a consultation. Give us a call to schedule yours today!”
Before and After Photos available by visiting www.beautybecomesyou.com Sugar Land Face & Body Plastic Surgery and Med Spa ~ 281-313-0555 16926 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77479 | Now in Katy! 3030 South Mason Rd, Katy, Texas 77450 4 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ August-September 2017
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Partnering to Provide
the Best
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by Amy Sharp
r. Kim Kim Forrest has built an award-winning orthodontic practice around these three fundamentals: a relaxed environment, a personable staff, and a care plan that suits an individual’s needs. Sometimes that care plan requires an oral surgeon. That’s why for more than 20 years, Dr. Forrest has maintained a working relationship with the doctors at The Katy Center for Oral and Facial Surgery (COFS). “We often collaborate with Dr. Forrest to help facilitate some of his orthodontic treatment plans,” says Chris Morris, DDS, MD. “When a patient has too many teeth for the size of his or her mouth, we may assist by removing certain teeth. Other patients may be born with missing teeth and we place implants to replace them or to be used as anchors to optimize their final smile. Sometimes the jaws actually need to be surgically repositioned. Many of these patients also return to us in their teens when it’s time for their wisdom teeth to be removed.” The Katy Center for Oral and Facial Surgery is the oldest oral and facial surgery practice in West Houston, and the only oral surgery group in Katy to cover facial trauma. Like Forrest Orthodontics, they take pride in providing the very best in both experience and technology. Dr. Morris and Justin Brock DDS, MD are both board certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the only dental surgical specialty recognized by the American College of Surgeons. For both Dr. Brock and Dr. Morris, staying up-to-date on the latest advances in oral surgery is imperative. Dr. Brock says, “We utilize 3D image techniques for orthognathic surgery planning, and perform CT guided surgery. We have extensive training and experience in anesthesia, trauma surgery, craniofacial surgery, and treating medically compromised patients.” The long-standing relationship between Forrest Orthodontics and The Katy Center for Oral and Facial Surgery is built on their common promise to provide the best care possible, and a continued commitment to treating every patient with respect and compassion. Dr. Brock says, “It’s always obvious...the kids love Dr. Forrest. He’s a great guy and a great doctor that really takes care of his patients. It’s why we love working with him.”
Dr. Brock, Dr. Morris and Dr. Forrest are your neighbors...all three are raising their families right here in Katy. They’re invested in this community. The Katy Center for Oral and Facial Surgery has been here for 35 years. Dr. Forrest has practiced orthodontics in Katy for 18 years and was a general dentist for the 17 years before that! The two practices were neighbors on Mason Road for years, and both moved to Cinco Village Center Boulevard when their current building was built. Today their offices are a mere flight of stairs or elevator ride away from each other. For more information on both practices, visit www. oralfacialsurg.com and www.forrestortho.com.
Forrest Orthodontics 281-392-4571 23922 Cinco Village Center Blvd, Suite 250 Katy, TX 77494 www.forrestortho.com
UPCLOSE Katy ~ August-September 2017 ~ 5
“Dr. Purser by Amy Sharp
truly loves the dogs.”
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racie K. competes dogs. When she moved here 10 years ago with her Belgian Malinois named Peanut, her neighbor recommended a vet: Dr. Mark Purser at Highland Knolls Veterinary Hospital. Tracie says, “It was awesome to find a great vet right from the start!” Peanut was the AKC (American Kennel Club) #1 ranked Belgian Malinois in Obedience in 2014, 2015 and 2016. Last year Peanut was inducted into the American Belgian Malinois Club Hall of Fame. “But for the first several years of her life, Peanut was a walking bio-hazard,” says Tracie. “Always sick. We thought the itchy skin was caused by an allergy, but Dr. Purser discovered it was symptoms of a deeper intestinal gut health issue. Dr. Purser collaborated with specialty vets to figure out what was going on, and brought Peanut back to optimal health. When you ask these elite canine athletes to compete at the highest level, they need great physical and mental health. Dr. Purser got us there with Peanut.” In practice since 1988, Dr. Purser opened Highland Knolls Veterinary Hospital in 1999 with one goal: To make your veterinary experience as pleasant and comfortable as possible for you and your pet. Tracie has learned this first hand. “The patient care is tremendous. Dr. Purser truly loves the dogs. He’s compassionate and extremely knowledgable. And his staff is just as wonderful and caring, with both the animals and the people part too. They’re communicative, make recommendations and always look out for the best interest of your pet. It’s great customer service.” Tracie’s younger Belgian Malinois, Jelly Bean, is also a patient of Dr. Purser. Jelly Bean was the AKC #1 overall Rally dog (all-breed) in 2016. “Competing dogs is a great hobby and stress buster for me,” says Tracie. “I can’t thank Dr. Purser enough. Dr. Purser and his team are great partners.”
Katy Area Veterinary Medical Group 281-398-1551 Highland Knolls Veterinary Hospital 20920 Highland Knolls Dr Katy, Texas 77450 Spring Green Pet Clinic 10705 Spring Green Blvd #400 Katy, Texas 77494 Value Pet Care 6734 Westheimer Lakes N. Dr. #105 Katy, Texas 77494 www.katyvet.com
Look well. Feel well. Be well.
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t Vitality Health & Wellness, the focus is you. Nurse Practitioner and owner Lexie Barton says, “I’m committed to providing a comprehensive suite of services that improve the wellbeing of both men and women. We want you to feel your best both inside and out.” Lexie has vast experience in both bio-identical hormone replacement and aesthetics. In fact, Vitality Health & Wellness was the first medspa in Katy to offer bioTE—bioidentical allnatural hormones in tiny pellets inserted just under the skin that release a steady supply of hormones into your bloodstream, adjusting with your activity levels. “Gone is the roller coaster of energy and focus you may have experienced with pills, patches or creams,” says Lexie. Lexie is certified by the National Laser Institute for Advanced Injectables and sclerotherapy, and provides dermal fillers and botox treatments. She also offers medically managed weight-loss programs. For cellulite reduction and firmer, tighter skin, Vitality is excited to now offer a quick, non-intrusive and non-surgical alternative: body contouring by technician Christina Jimenez. Christina says, “These treatments utilize heat and massage together with radio frequency to break down fat cells and cellulite while tightening the skin. Plus, it’s all natural with no down time and no needles!“ Body contouring is suitable for all body parts, including abs, thighs, arms, glutes, chin, back and facial areas. Licensed esthetician Brooke Manzano holds certifications in Lash Extensions, Chemical Peels, Corrective Facials, Advanced Esthetics Studies, and Microdermabrasion. At Vitality, Brooke also offers dermaplaning, full body waxing, lash and brow tinting, acne treatments and facelifting massages. Brooke says, “What I love most about my career is that I get to make others look and feel beautiful on a daily basis!” Finally, Nakia Jones is a skilled, dual licensed medical aesthetician and laser hair removal technician. Nakia has been in the beauty and aesthetics industry for more than 11 years and is excited to bring her expertise to Vitality. By covering many of the bases for both health and beauty, Lexie, Christina, Brooke and Nakia strive to help you not only feel your best, but look your best too. What can they do for you? 6 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ August-September 2017
www.upclosemagazine.com
by Marie Page
Vitality Health & Wellness
281-394-1541
21416 Provincial Blvd, Katy, TX 77450 www.vitalityhealthandwellness.info
Tooth be told
Love
We
Our Patients
Meet the Holtz girls by Amy Sharp
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hen the Holtz family moved to the area two years ago, they wanted a pediatric dentist for their daughters Olivia and Paige. Mom Shannon discovered Dr. Shilpa Chandiwal, DDS at Healthy Teeth Pediatric Dentistry was a dental provider on their insurance, and decided to give her a try. “We are very happy with that decision,” says Shannon. “Dr. Shilpa is patient and warm. Just fabulous.” While Olivia had seen a dentist before, Dr. Shilpa is the only dentist little Paige has ever known. “Two years ago we started with sitting on my lap and getting her teeth counted by Dr. Shilpa and brushed with a regular toothbrush. Just this week, Dr. Shilpa moved her to the big girl spin brush. Dr. Shilpa did it herself, since she was the person most familiar to Paige. I sat by her toes and held her hands. We even got full x-rays and Paige is on track for sealants this month!” Dr. Shilpa is board certified and a Columbia University’s New York Presbyterian Hospital specialist in all areas of children’s dentistry. Shannon says, “Not only does she have the DENTIST LOCATIONS CARE Not only does she have schooling and the brains, she has a great bedside manner. She knows what she’s talking about and the schooling and the brains, she has great bedside manner. does a great job communicating with a three-year-old, a sixyear-old, and a 35-year-old! We all feel comfortable. Every She knows what she’s talking six months when we go back the girls look forward to the about and does a great job movie, the little carpeted seats and the iPads. Then they communicating with a threeremember picking what color toothpaste to use. They’re year-old, a six-year-old, and a always a little cautious about the dental exam, but warm 35-year-old! up quickly to the friendly chit-chat of the staff. And this time they got to take home special kid glitter toothpaste in a Dr. Shilpa Chandiwal, DDS sackpack that also included a frisbee.” 5300 Ranch Point Drive, Suite #B The mission at Healthy Teeth Pediatric Dentistry is to provide comprehensive dental Katy, TX 77494 care for your little one in the most child-friendly way possible. It’s fun for the kids, and 713-234-1002 parents love the warmness and knowledge of Dr. Shilpa and her state of the art office. Healthy Teeth Pediatric Dentistry is completely paperless and utilizes the latest digital 4907 Sandhill Dr., Suite E x-ray technology to minimize radiation to your little ones. The entire experience is a win- Sugar Land, TX 77479 713-955-2100 win for both parents and kids. Shannon says, “I actively recommend Dr. Shilpa to others. I feel like we are in great hands!” www.healthyteethpediatricdentistry.com
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Back on Her Feet to Cheer Senior Year!
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hen 17-year-old high school cheerleader Alyssa Kunkel was experiencing foot pain after a tumbling injury, her mom Kristen took her to see the podiatrist she had seen herself in the past. “I had visited Dr. Jeanna Mascorro when I had a plantar wart. I like her. She’s extremely personable, relatable and a good listener.” Dr. Mascorro determined Alyssa’s persistent foot pain wasn’t caused by her past injury. She had congenital malformation. Kristen says, “Two of Alyssa’s bones had no cushion between them, and they were growing together. Dr. Mascorro needed to do surgery to remove part of the bone and put the space back.” Not only did Alyssa need surgery, she wanted it done right away. Waiting until summer when it would be easier to recover would mean not cheering her senior year. Dr. Mascorro understood, and Alyssa had surgery the day before Thanksgiving. On surgery day, Dr. Mascorro joked around with Alyssa. “It’s just the way she is,” says Kristen. “She can talk to anybody. She knows a patient well and understands their wants and fears. In regards to
by Amy Sharp
bedside manner, she’s probably the best doctor we’ve ever had. She listened and answered all of our questions. Alyssa even asked if she could video the surgery. She didn’t video it, but she did take a picture of the disgusting piece of bone she took out of Alyssa’s foot. She texted it to me in the waiting room and told me to make sure Alyssa gets it. That’s who she is...she listened to a 17-year-old's request and made it happen.” Thanks to Dr. Mascorro, Alyssa was out of a boot and not on crutches for cheerleader tryouts in March. “She still couldn’t tumble, so she submitted a video. But come next fall, Alyssa will get to cheer her senior year—a BIG DEAL!—and Dr. Mascorro made that happen. I’m impressed with her and her whole office. They all know you. When I had questions about insurance or medications, if they didn’t know the answer they followed up and called me back. You really don’t see that anymore. I really like Dr. Mascorro and I do recommend her!” Fulshear Foot and Ankle 281-391-1212 7609 Tiki Drive, Suite D, Fulshear, Texas 77441 www.fulshearfootandankle.com
Like a relaxing massage or a great hug... ...discover the calming effects of weighted blankets.
• Alzheimer’s • Anxiety • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder • Autism • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder • Sensory Processing Disorders • Stress ...and so many more!
Handmade by Tiffany Nachefski, the mother of a child with severe autism, these blankets are machine washable and fully customized to the individual— including weight, fabric and optional aromatherapy.
Wyatt’s Weighted Wonderland 281-818-2733 2750 FM 1463, Suite 15012, Katy, Texas 77494 www.wyattsweightedwonderland.com 8 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ August-September 2017
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ALLIES IN INFORMATION DESTRUCTION
SE-Shred Offers: - Customized Solutions since 2009 - On-Site Commercial Shredding - Residential Shredding* - Hard Drive Destruction - No Hidden Fees - Purge Confidential Documents - Eliminate Clutter - Outstanding Customer Service - Service Based on your needs * by appointment
www.SE-Shred.com 281.394.2447
Make Your House Your Home
- JEAN’S INSPIRATION -
by Marie Page ean Martin and her husband moved here from Austin in 2012. “We were done raising our kids, and we mega-downsized. But we moved everything...shoved it in trucks and our garage here was jam-packed with stuff.” “Our old house was divided into several rooms,” continues Jean. “This house is set up for entertaining. It has a very open floor plan. So I ended up with a plaid here and a floral there. It looked pretty bad. I sorted through what I had, and wanted to buy new furniture too. I hadn’t purchased anything in 10 years. I went to the usual big stores, and everything was more formal than what I wanted. I had seen a few accent pieces I liked at Tista’s Fine Furniture, and I kept coming back to them.” Tista’s Fine Furniture & Mattresses is locally owned by Deborah Bautista. Not only can you find unique pieces at Tista’s, Deborah does complimentary home design! That’s what she did for Jean. “Deb came in and looked at what we had. Then she added quality, unique pieces that gave the home an eclectic feel without blowing the budget. It’s stuff not everybody has. For my antique table in the kitchen, I wanted seating for eight. Deb helped find chairs and had cushions specially made. She worked to find a pattern for my grandmother’s sitting chair and got it done properly. Now it’s next to the piano that my mom, my aunt and my kids all learned to play on. Deb found a white, wood cabinet that beautifully displays my Dad’s pottery collection. For the bedrooms, we wanted to create something comfortable for when our kids visit using existing pieces. Deb did just that. She helped with not only the furniture, but the draperies, paint and rugs too. We went together to pick fabric
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for the upholstered chairs.” “This was a big project,” continues Jean. “And once it was pulled together...it was like a live TV show! The team came in and started installing. They installed my art as well. We like to hike and camp and wanted that sort of playfulness brought out in our house. Deb got it done. She made this house our home. It reminds us of all the good times...it’s a reflection of our lives.” Once a young designer in Las Vegas, Deb’s clients included such luminaries as Redd Foxx, Wayne Newton, Siegfried & Roy and Caesar’s Palace. Today she brings her lifelong passion for design to her hometown of Katy. “Your needs and wants are absolutely my top priority,” explains Deborah. “My job is to take your dream and make it a reality. I love that I could do that for Jean!” Call to schedule a free in-home consultation, which will include interior painting ideas, window treatments, art, mirrors, and rugs. Take your house from just a house to a home!
TISTA’S FINE FURNITURE & MATTRESSES
281-347-5289 5315 Hwy Blvd., Katy, TX 77494 (Behind Texas Tradition) www.tistashome.com
UPCLOSE Katy ~ August-September 2017 ~ 9
A Repeat Customer
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by Marie Page
.O. and Betty Clifton started a remodeling effort on their home 10 years ago. “I made a list of everything I wanted done in priority order,” says R.O. “In 2006, I had a general contractor itemize that list. When we got to my budget cutoff point, we did phase one: the kitchen.” In 2014, the Clifton’s were ready to do phase two of their remodel. “We wanted to extend the tile we had installed in the kitchen into our dining room, entryway and study. I needed to find that same tile. I googled and Lone Star Floors had it, plus their store was close by. We walked in and met a salesperson who was very helpful. In addition to the downstairs, we also wanted to tile the upstairs bath, and carpet the upstairs and stairs. The salesperson gave me an acceptable price and we went with it.” “Both the carpet and tile installers sent by Lone Star Floors were very good at their craft. The tile installer was meticulous. It’s done right and he cleaned up afterward. Betty was happy with the results...and if my wife is happy, I’m happy! This summer, we did phase three of our remodel: the master bath and bedroom. We wanted to match both the tile and carpet from 2014, so I went back to Lone Star Floors. I requested the same salesperson, but he had retired. The salesperson I worked with was just as helpful, and the same installer that put in our tile 2 ½ years ago did our master bath tile. I think it speaks well for the company that an installer has stayed that long.” “Finding a contractor or company that you trust and does a good job is always a concern,” adds R.O. “I’m happy to share my Lone Star Floors personal experiences.”
Get More from 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
Not All Brown Spots are Created Equal by Amy Sharp
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re you seeing brown spots in your yard? Bruce Granger of NaturaLawn of America says, “It could be drought stress, it could be insect activity like webworms or chinch bugs, or it could be a fungus problem. All of these conditions are affected by improper watering, such as watering your lawn for just a few minutes multiple times a week.” “What you want is to create a deep root system for better health,” continues Bruce. “When your yard doesn’t get enough water, drought stress occurs. We’ve had a lot of rain...but it’s been hit or miss. We’ve seen many lawns dying from drought stress because they’re not getting enough water, even though the sprinklers are set to water everyday three to five minutes per zone. You’re not creating that deep root system. In fact, your lawn practically gets no water.” So how much water does your lawn actually need? “One inch per week. So on a week we get at least an inch of rain...no need to water. When we don’t get rain, you need to put out about an inch of water...all at once is best, or do a half an inch twice a week. Not only are you giving your roots the water they need, heavy water or rain drowns out the chinch bugs, keeping the population down. Chinch bugs are common, but a lawn with a deep roots system will weather the infestation better. Finally, because your grass is a living thing, it needs to dry out between waterings. If you
10 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ August-September 2017
water everyday and add in our humidity, you’re creating a perfect environment for fungus growth.” To ensure one inch per week, Bruce recommends measuring how much water your system is putting out with a rain gauge. “Then you know exactly what you’re doing. And technology is great, but don’t just assume your sprinkler system is working...periodically check it. If a head is broken or has grass vining over it...you may not be watering properly even when you think you are!” Want more tips on achieving a great yard? Give Bruce a call! NaturaLawn offers aeration, seeding, insect control, 100% pesticide-free lawn care, and organic-based lawn care. And Bruce is always happy to provide tips and advice. Bruce Granger 281-392-2990 NaturaLawn of America Houstonwest.naturalawn.com
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A Common Goal: Education BINGO! September 17 1pm - 5pm (BINGO starts at 2pm)
Stardust Event Center Rosenberg All proceeds benefit Fort Bend Hispanic Heritage Forum scholarships.
by Amy Sharp
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he Fort Bend Hispanic Heritage Forum embraces all Hispanos by instilling pride and respect for the rights of people everywhere. President Joe Vera says, “We’re a Rosenberg-based, county-wide, 501(c)(3), nonprofit/non-partisan corporation founded in 2005. Each year we award scholarships to deserving college bound students. Four years ago, Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land partnered with us in our scholarship endeavor. Thanks to Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land’s generosity and involvement, in each of the past four years every deserving and qualified Fort Bend County applicant has received a scholarship. Not one student has been left out due to lack of funds!” This year, Fort Bend Hispanic Heritage Forum awarded their highest number of scholarships yet: 47! The Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land relationship with the organization started because Ray Aguilar (Classic Chevy Sugar Land Business Development and Community Relations Manager) serves on the Fort Bend Hispanic Heritage Forum board. And it’s just blossomed from there. Joe says, “Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land has really opened doors for us and helped us grow awareness about our organization. We participate in their Chili Cookoff each year. They’ve invited us to the Exchange Club Spaghetti Dinner and countless other events...always introducing us as a partner and worthy organization. And
they believe in our scholarships.” Classic Chevy Sugar Land’s involvement in the scholarships is not just monetary. At least once a quarter, Fort Bend Hispanic Heritage Forum hosts a bingo fundraiser at Stardust in Rosenberg. The event is driven entirely by volunteers and donations, so that 100% of the proceeds can go to the scholarship fund. Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land employees and family members can be seen volunteering at the event. The pizza sold at concessions is often donated in part by Classic Chevy Sugar Land, and so are many of the bingo prizes. And these are great prizes...like a free car detail or tickets for 10 to see the Sugar Land Skeeters in Classic Chevy Sugar Land’s suite at Constellation Field! Classic Chevy Sugar Land General Manager Jeff Sebastian says, “The Fort Bend Hispanic Heritage Forum supports something Classic Chevy Sugar Land strongly believes in: education. We are extremely proud to play a small part in ensuring every deserving applicant receives a scholarship. We are supporting the future of this community...and making a difference!” Visit www.hispanicheritageforum.org or Fort Bend Hispanic Heritage Forum on Facebook for information about sponsoring a scholarship or contributing to the established scholarship fund, attending or helping with upcoming events, or applying for a scholarship.
281-491-9000 www.classicchevysugarland.com
SHOP FORT BEND
13115 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478
“Never underestimate your ability to make someone else’s life better - even if you never know it.” - Greg Louganis by Amy Sharp
T
ricia Turner has built her business and her life around the concept of giving back. Her reach is vast, but these two area nonprofits have stolen her heart: Child Advocates of Fort Bend and Texana. At Child Advocates of Fort Bend, the mission is to provide a voice, heal the hurt and break the cycle of abuse and neglect for all children in Fort Bend County. Over 14,000 children have benefitted from their services in the past 25 years. This year marks Tricia’s third year as a Child Advocates of Fort Bend Ambassador. “I had never heard of them,” says Tricia, “until a representative of the organization was the guest speaker at Brazos River Rotary Club. I had no idea about the child abuse epidemic. I wanted to be a part of this immediately...be a voice for a child.” Tricia was awarded “Ambassador of the Year” after only her second year of serving Child Advocates of Fort Bend. Texana is an organization that truly pulls at Tricia’s heartstrings. Tricia’s son Justin has autism and Down syndrome. Texana provides behavioral healthcare and developmental disabilities services to residents of a six county area, including Fort Bend. Tricia says, “I was first intrigued because Texana focuses on both kids and adults with autism and developmental disabilities. Then when I heard of all the plans Texana has for Fulshear, I knew I wanted in on the ground floor!” Texana is planning an additional campus in Fulshear that will include a retail training center with coffee shop to provide training and intern positions for teens and adults with intellectual disabilities and/or autism. Second and third phases of the campus include Texana’s Children’s Center for Autism, and the Center for Learning: a new concept with a “learning atmosphere” similar to a community college or vocational school for those with autism and developmental disabilities. Tricia says, “My son is 16. He will benefit from these programs after high school, and I will benefit as a parent. This campus will serve like-minded people and train them to get 12 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ August-September 2017
www.upclosemagazine.com
into the workforce. So many of these individuals can do so many things... they just need the proper training.” Tricia serves on the Texana Advisory Board and is on the Fulshear Steering Committee for Texana. And you can catch Tricia November 18th at the 2017 Texana Trot in Cross Creek Ranch...she’s the head of the event! The new Texana campus in Fulshear is expected to break ground this fall, and there is a capital campaign underway. For more information about either of these organizations or to see how you can help...give Tricia a call!
Tricia Turner Properties 832-334-2671 8030 FM 359 Suite B, Fulshear, Texas www.triciaturnerproperties.com
you
do have what it takes
l
? e p a to esc by Amy Sharp
ast September, Scott Deweese invited his girlfriend Paula on a trip to Chattanooga, Tennessee. “I didn’t think much of it,” says Paula. “But Scott surprised me with a proposal at Lover’s Leap!” After a resounding “Yes!”, the couple and Scott’s son Daniel were ready to explore the area. The Tripadvisor #1 thing to do in Chattanooga was an escape room. Scott says, “We didn’t even know what an escape room was, but it had five-star ratings from thousands of people. Pretty incredible. By chance we drove by it on our way to the hotel, so we pulled in and tried it out.” “We did a room with people we didn’t know,” says Paula. “And we didn’t escape...but we really had a great time! When we returned to Houston, we played a few area escape rooms. We were disappointed that the experience was not the same as Chattanooga.” As fate would have it, the couple had been contemplating finding a business they could run together. They decided to create the best escape room around right here in Katy. Paula says, “We talked to my children, and together we pooled our money.” That’s how it started. Today this family— which includes two Marine Corps veterans, professional ballroom dancers, a professional photographer, a practicing doctor, a successful young businessman, homeschooling moms and a college student—is excited to bring Alternate Reality Escape Rooms to Katy! Owned by Scott and Paula Deweese, Jacey and Julian Cubelli, Jerrett and Andreina Porter, Jacob and Karly Porter and Daniel Deweese, the 4000 sq. ft. Alternate Reality Escape Rooms is Houston’s most fully immersive and technologically advanced escape rooms. Scott says, “We had our own ideas for the rooms, and we built them out. Then we brought in a company from South Dakota to build the props. This company had the connections we needed. They brought in Hollywood designers who spent seven days putting our rooms over the top! They’re spectacular!”
So how does it work? You and your group of friends have an hour to escape one of the rooms, by solving the challenging riddles and puzzles. This isn’t just locks and boxes. You interact with the props to figure out how to escape. Your teamwork, your wits and your ability to handle pressure are put to the test. And with Hollywood special and surprise effects, lighting, sights and even smells, it’s so realistic you’ll feel like you’re in the story. Visit www.alternaterealityescape.com for sneak peek video trailers of the rooms! Only open since July 1st, Alternate Reality Escape Rooms has been well received... enjoying five-star reviews and ratings across the board and over 600,000 hits on Facebook. Do you have what it takes to escape? Find out today!
281-394-7848 21788 Katy Freeway, Suite 300 Katy, TX 77449 www.alternaterealityescape.com
A College
Y
for Dad “
by Amy Sharp
field and speaks from real world experience.” adu Cervantes’ wife Shelly is a college graduate. The best part about In addition to experienced faculty and a career“We want college to be the standard in our relevant curriculum, the classes at Belhaven are house for our kids Kayla, Candyce, Courtney Belhaven is that you actually small...just 15-20 students per class. and Kyle, and son-in-law Carlos,” says Yadu. Nationally recognized for academics and “Best “Not an option, but the next goal after high have instructors that teach their school. So I decided to get my degree in Business subjects from 100% experience. Buy” affordability, Belhaven students can attend part-time or full-time earning bachelor’s or master’s Administration to help set that standard...and I knew in the process I would gain more qualified They are not talking theory. Each degrees. To further meet the needs of busy working experience for my next job.” works in their field and speaks adults, Belhaven University recently implemented Canvas software. Canvas is a Learning Management After completing an associate degree at Houston from real world experience. System that simplifies teaching and learning by Community College, Yadu was ready to work on connecting all the digital tools teachers use in one his bachelor’s degree. “I thought about University of Houston, but it’s downtown. I work retail, and needed to easy place. “With Canvas, it’s easier than ever to manage assignments accommodate my job and my family. I started researching online and and access teachers,” says Yadu. “The school is great, the people are discovered Belhaven University. It’s close to home, and at Belhaven great...and now with Canvas Belhaven is even more appealing.” As a Christian university, all Belhaven programs are taught from you take one class each five week period. That made more sense when trying to accommodate my schedule. Plus with just one class a week, a Christian worldview perspective and are guided by the mission to prepare students academically and spiritually to serve Christ I can dedicate time to one subject and really learn it.” Today, Yadu has six more classes at Belhaven and he will graduate Jesus in their careers, in human relationships, and in the world with his bachelor’s degree. “The best part about Belhaven is that of ideas. Yadu says, “You’re in class with people of the same faith, you actually have instructors that teach their subjects from 100% learning about other cultures that worship the same God. It’s an experience. They are not talking theory. Each works in their awesome experience.”
”
West Houston Campus 281-579-9977 15115 Park Row, Suite 175, Houston, TX 77084
houston.belhaven.edu
DENTAL Health
A Day at the Beach!
W
by Amy Sharp
hat if going to the dentist was relaxed, comfortable and fun? Dr. Faisal M. Khan and his staff at Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental aim to make going to the dentist a day at the beach! Dr. Khan says, “Kids are exciting. They live in the moment. I love providing a fun place for them. It’s one of the reasons I became a pediatric dentist…to live vicariously through the kids!” And he means all kids…infants, children, teens. As a Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist and a Fellow in Special Care Dentistry, Dr. Khan also understands that some kids, especially kids with special needs or dental anxiety, require unique care. Upon entering the beach-themed office, kids are treated to a floor-to-ceiling coral reef and fish mural…and a waiting room filled with toys, room to play and a movie. And the fun doesn’t stay in the waiting room. Teeth are cleaned while kids lay on orange and white “surf board” beds with TV screens mounted on the ceiling for the patient’s enjoyment. Dental procedures are performed in “Turtle Hut” and “Dolphin Cove.” Think your kid is too young? Dr. Khan says, “Like the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, I generally recommend to parents that they bring their kids around one year old. Kids that young rarely have anything wrong, so it’s just fun all around. At that age I really spend more time educating the parents about children’s teeth…and for the child, the office and staff become a familiar environment, and that alleviates a lot of what I call ‘crazy screaming dentistry.’ When kids enjoy coming in, have a good time and then leave with a smile, it’s really easier for everyone.” Dr. Khan grew up in Detroit and began practicing in New York, before relocating to the much warmer temperatures here in Fort Bend County with his wife––Sugar Land native, Samiha Zakaria. He is the past president of the Academy of Pediatric Dentists and a member of the FBISD Foundation Board of Directors. With three children of his
own, Dr. Khan understands the nervousness kids experience when going to the dentist…that’s why he’s made a visit to his office like a day at the beach for kids (and their parents). Schedule an appointment today!
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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