October 2017
Magazine
THE RIGHT CH ICE
Make the right choice
Dr. Clive Shkedy Dr. Sandra Templeton
Dr. Jorge Darcourt
Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital provides collaborative, comprehensive screening, diagnosis and treatment services, all under one roof.
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t’s a scary statistic – one in every eight women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in her life. Fortunately, Fort Bend women have the perfect partner for lifelong breast health.
At Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, a dedicated team of health care professionals combines the latest technologies and techniques; individualized, compassionate care; and a unique program of support to ensure that women receive the personal attention they deserve. “No one else in Fort Bend provides comprehensive care like we do here at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital,” said Jorge Darcourt, MD,
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board-certified medical oncologist with Houston Methodist Oncoloy Partners. “We continually strive to enhance our services and be true partners with our patients – experts they can trust no matter what their breast care needs may be.”
Complete care begins with screening Most women recognize that annual mammograms – beginning at age 40 – are a key component in breast health, but busy schedules and competing priorities can make it difficult to find the time. To make scheduling more convenient, women can schedule their mammograms online at houstonmethodist.org/imaging.
MISSION RE
for breast health Plus, Houston Methodist Sugar Land offers the latest and most sophisticated imaging technology, including: • • • • • • • •
3-D mammography Breast MRI Digital mammography Diagnostic ultrasound Ductography Needle localization Stereotactic biopsies Ultrasound-guided biopsies
All imaging results are read by full-time, specially trained breast radiologists, who are exclusively dedicated to breast care.
What if you receive the diagnosis that no one wants to hear? The experts at Houston Methodist Sugar Land work together to begin treatment immediately. That level of collaboration is possible because Houston Methodist Sugar Land provides comprehensive breast care all on the same campus. Our experts include breast surgeons, radiologists, radiation oncologists, reconstructive surgeons, medical oncologists, pathologists, nurse navigators, and patient support personnel, including physical therapists, dieticians and more.
tion lumpectomies to be performed with a more cosmetically pleasing outcome. “Our team shares the belief that lifelong breast care is the foundation of our practice, and we are dedicated to helping patients understand their individual diagnosis as well as the diverse treatment options available to them,” said Templeton. Houston Methodist Sugar Land also has oncology nurse navigators dedicated to guiding patients through the entire treatment process, providing education, help with expediting appointments and identifying additional resources such as financial consultation and support groups. “A cancer diagnosis is stressful enough, so we really want our patients’ experience to be as stress-free as possible,” said Melissa De Los Santos, B SN, R N, OCN, nurse navigator for breast and gynecologic cancers at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “Our personal touch begins the minute a patient arrives for a screening mammogram and continues throughout every aspect of their care for as long as needed.”
Services that go beyond Because many breast cancer survivors have significant needs long after their formal course of treatment is over, Houston Methodist Sugar Land offers a proven, multidisciplinary program designed to help patients cope with life after cancer.
“Having everything a patient needs under one roof is a major Melissa De Los Santos, benefit for our patients. They do nurse navigator not need to go to one facility for The program includes physical and imaging, another for surgery, another for chemo occupational therapies that help overcome and yet another for radiation,” said Clive Shkedy, MD, board-certified radiation oncologist with side effects caused by breast cancer treatment Houston Methodist Cancer Center at Sugar Land. such as weakness, fatigue, difficulty with arm “Everything can be completed on the Houston range of motion, and peripheral neuropathy. Methodist Sugar Land campus, making it more It also includes certified lymphedema convenient for the patient.” therapists who can help reduce post“At Houston Methodist Sugar Land, treatment swelling of extremities. the breast care team works together and And to aid patients in dealing with the communicates frequently to customize each psychological and spiritual issues surrounding patient-specific treatment plan. We continue cancer, the hospital’s clinical social workers to collaborate closely throughout treatment and chaplains provide ongoing assistance to stay informed of updates and to ensure and resources, along with support groups the best possible outcome,” said Sandra where women can share their stories and Templeton, MD, breast surgeon with Houston learn from other survivors. Methodist Breast Surgery Partners. “Since the hospital and physicians now share an Your health – make the smart choice electronic health record, MyChart, patients do When it comes to lifelong breast health, not have to transport charts or request charts choosing Houston Methodist Sugar Land as to be faxed to multiple facilities or offices. your partner is the smart choice. When surgery is required, Houston Methodist Breast Surgery Partners offers advanced techniques, including nipplesparing mastectomies, skin-sparing mastectomies, minimal incision and oncoplastic procedures, which allow breast conserva-
You don’t have to go through treatment feeling alone or uncertain — call our nurse navigator for more information or for assistance with scheduling the right physician for you at 281.672.8585.
www.upclosemagazine.com
“Masterpieces, Music, Movement, Massage & More” Cancer Survivorship Showcase Thursday, Oct. 19 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m.
Brazos Pavilion Conference Center Local cancer survivors and their caregivers are encouraged to attend an introductory evening to sample the hospital’s unique cancer survivorship programs. Registration Required Go to events.houstonmethodist.org/ survivorship-sl or call 281.274.7500 to register.
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16655 Southwest Fwy. Sugar Land, TX 77479 UPCLOSE ~ October 2017 ~ 3
Dr. Baltazar
Keeps Me
Walking J
by Sara Adams
uan Vasquez has been a patient of Dr. Ulises Baltazar for 12 years. He laughs when he explains how he first met Dr. Baltazar. “At the time, I owned a small trucking company. We did a lot of long-distance deliveries. I took time off to take my wife, Leticia, for her procedure with Dr. Baltazar. I was wearing shorts that day and when Dr. Baltazar saw me in the waiting room, he told Leticia, ‘Your husband is the one who needs the surgery.’” “He was very friendly,” continues Juan, “but he wanted to make sure I understood the seriousness of the condition of my legs. Dr. Baltazar said, ‘You need to take care of your veins. You’re losing your veins by driving for too long without stopping. You should find a good vein doctor.’ I really liked his honesty and straightforward way of talking to me. I also knew that Leticia trusted him, so I decided to take his advice and I chose him to be my vein doctor.” In 2015 Juan sold his trucking business. He consulted with Dr. Baltazar and realized it was a good time to step away from the business. Juan says, “It was the best thing I could do. Leticia and I have two children and two grandchildren. We are enjoying life.” Juan is diabetic and maintaining proper circulation in his legs is very important. He credits Dr. Baltazar with saving his legs more than once. Earlier this year, he fell and hurt his leg. Juan says, “It was Dr. Baltazar who recognized just how serious my injury was. He scheduled emergency surgery for my leg. He came in on his day
off and saved my leg and my life. Dr. Baltazar keeps me walking.” Leticia adds, “Dr. Baltazar is my angel.” Dr. Ulises Baltazar is board-certified by the American Board of Surgery in Vascular Surgery, and a member of Houston Methodist Cardiovascular Surgery Associates’ Sugar Land Vein Clinic—a practice dedicated exclusively to the treatment of venous insufficiency. He is a highly regarded vein specialist with extensive experience working with conditions resulting from issues of the circulatory system. “Through the years I have told a lot of people about Dr. Baltazar,” says Juan. “I don’t know what would have happened to me if I had not gone with Leticia that day. Whenever I think of Dr. Baltazar, I think, ‘Thank God we met you.’”
Ulises Baltazar MD, RVT, FACS now affiliated with the renowned Methodist Cardiovascular Surgery Associates 281-240-8400 16605 Southwest Freeway Ste 505 (in the Methodist Professional Building 3) 4 ~ UPCLOSE ~ October 2017
Confidence Feels Good So why not look the way you feel? Remember, plastic surgery at its best is never noticed as “plastic surgery”. It just leaves you looking more refreshed, youthful and natural. When you’re ready to rejuvenate your look, call the cosmetic surgery team women and men have come to trust. Their combined expertise means you’re in the best of hands.
• Eyes • Brow • Face • Neck • Nose • Breasts • Liposuction • Tummy Tuck • Injectables • Lasers • Skin Care • Tattoo Removal The staff at Sugar Land Face and Body Plastic Surgery is proud to announce that we are expanding into Houston Dermatology and Plastic Surgery! To improve patient experience, we have also added two new physicians to the team: Dermatologist Dr. Filiberto Cedeno Laurent and Plastic Surgeon Dr. Olga Bachilo. With a multitude of services available, including both a variety of aesthetic and surgical procedures all under one roof, Houston Dermatology and Plastic Surgery has become the “go to” for beauty. “From consult to surgery, our patients get everything they need here in one place,” says Dr. Humble. “Rejuvenation is about making your vision of yourself a reality, so you can enjoy life to the fullest, and we are thrilled that we are able to help patients achieve their goals beautifully. For me, that’s the ultimate reward: a happy, rejuvenated patient.”
Before and After Photos available by visiting www.beautybecomesyou.com Houston Dermatology and Plastic Surgery (formerly Sugar Land Face & Body Plastic Surgery) ~ 281-313-0555 16926 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77479 | Now in Katy! 3030 South Mason Rd, Katy, Texas 77450
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Community It’s everywhere you look in Sienna Plantation.
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Where quality time and real life blend in a beautiful setting. Visit Sienna Plantation’s Sawmill Lake, with new schools, new amenities and new homes from the $280s.
See for yourself.
New homes from the $280s Sienna Pkwy at Hwy. 6
siennaplantation.com/homes Greenway
Galleria
Downtown
Med Center
As BIG as
TEXAS
Veritas Steak and Seafood—your premier location for fine dining close to home—is excited to introduce an all-new and extensive wine list! Owner Kevin Rios says, “With over 300 wines carefully selected from all over the world, we have the best wine list in the area at the best possible prices!” With these prices, there’s no need to wait for a special occasion to celebrate! Veritas is renowned for its seasonal menu offering the finest and freshest ingredients available, including USDA Prime Beef, fresh seafood brought in daily, and their popular pasta made in-house daily. Pair your favorite entree with just the right wine at just the right price and it’s perfect for dinner after work, date night or an evening out with friends!
Pk w y
READY FOR THE HOLIDAYS?
tB en d
Veritas is open Thanksgiving Day 11am-3pm offering a traditional Thanksgiving meal. And book your private holiday party now...space is filling up quickly!
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Darling . CalAtlantic . Chesmar . David Weekley . Gracepoint Highland . Meritage . MI Homes . Newmark . Perry . Shea Taylor Morrison . Toll Brothers . Trendmaker . Westin
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Steak and Seafood
Wine List Reinvented!
A strong community with neighbors you can count on. Where children grow and learn.
eritas
Veritas Steak and Seafood ~ 281-491-2901 1550 Lake Pointe Parkway, Suite 500, Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.veritassteakandseafood.com
www.upclosemagazine.com
Going the
Extra Mile
by Marie Page
H
urricane Harvey’s record-shattering flooding and rainfall wrecked more than half a million vehicles across the Texas Gulf Coast. Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land General Manager Jeff Sebastian says, “Obviously, there’s a tremendous demand for vehicles. Whether you need a vehicle repaired, need a new vehicle, or are looking to trade-in while demand is high, we are ready to help!” Taking care of people...that’s the Classic Chevy Sugar Land culture. “Here, it’s all about you: the customer,” says Jeff. “You’ll see the difference from the moment you walk through our doors. It’s in the quality of people on our team and the experience we’ve created for you.” Have a Chevy that was damaged by the storms? Classic Chevy Sugar Land has expedited extra parts to the dealership so they can get you back on the road. And if you need a car to get you around town while it’s being serviced, Classic Chevy Sugar Land has courtesy vehicles available for you. Or perhaps you need a new car. At Classic Chevy Sugar Land, you never have to worry about quality when purchasing a pre-owned vehicle. Jeff says, “We run our cars through rigorous inspections and provide warranty programs...
because we’re thinking of the folks like you who’ll be driving them. The Classic Drive Forever program allows you to purchase with confidence. This program covers the engine and transmission on each of our eligible and thoroughly inspected pre-owned vehicles, for as long as you own the vehicle. And the buying process is easy. Everyone on our team is empowered to handle your transaction from start to finish…without any running back and forth to some hidden room. We will find what you are looking for, and close the deal quickly and professionally. We treat you like you’re buying a brand new car.” And if you are in the market for a brand new vehicle, Classic Chevy Sugar Land is pulling all the stops with Hurricane Disaster Relief CASH! Jeff says, “Any Texas resident residing in Hurricane Harvey affected areas will receive an additional $1000 cash back. In addition to all existing discounts and incentives on any new Chevrolet, at Classic we’re adding an additional $300 transportation voucher to cover the cost of transportation to DFW (residency restrictions apply).” Nobody messes with Texas, not even Harvey. That’s why at Classic Chevy Sugar Land they’re rolling up their sleeves to lend a helping hand. Stop in and experience the Classic Chevy Sugar Land difference for yourself...and see how they can help YOU!
281-491-9000 www.classicchevysugarland.com
SHOP FORT BEND
13115 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478
THE ONE TO SEE
Restored Vision and Comfortable Contact Lenses
After RK Surgery! by Amy Sharp
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early thirty years ago, Ruth Hernandez had radial keratotomy surgery in Mexico City. RK surgery involves making numerous incisions into the cornea to flatten it and improve visual acuity. “My case was particular,” says Ruth. “One of the incisions on my left eye was so deep it went through my cornea. But the procedure worked. For twenty years, my vision was good.” About seven years ago, the scars from the RK surgery started making the surface of Ruth’s cornea uneven and deformed, affecting her vision. Ruth was living in Dallas at the time. She inquired about LASIK, but was not a candidate. So she started her contact lens journey. “My first optometrist unsuccessfully tried regular lenses. Then I found a doctor in Dallas that fitted scleral lenses. I could see well with the sclerals, but I could only wear them for about four hours. I also have dry eye, and getting the lenses comfortable was an issue. We tried different things, including switching up the metrics of the lenses and many different contact lens solutions. We got to where I could wear them eight or nine hours, and I wore scleral lenses for about five years.” Ruth started to notice her dry eye was getting worse, and then the RK incision scar on her left eye started opening. She was told she would have to stop wearing her left lens. Now residing in Houston, Ruth
EyePrintPRO™ is Hope Your life revolves around your vision Don’t let corneal disease stop you from living
8 ~ UPCLOSE ~ October 2017
sought many opinions. A highly regarded eye surgeon told her a cornea transplant should be her last resort, and recommended she keep looking for contact lenses. She was referred to Dr. Tom Arnold at Today’s Vision Sugar Land. Dr. Arnold is considered an
“I was desperate and depressed. I had to stop playing tennis because I could not see well with my left eye.” expert in difficult contact lens cases. Ruth says, “I was desperate and depressed. I had to stop playing tennis because I could not see well with my left eye. Dr. Arnold was very nice and friendly. He’s the kind of doctor that’s hard to find. He takes time to talk and explains everything. Dr. Arnold recommended we try EyePrintPRO lenses.” An EyePrintPRO lens is made by first making an impression of the eye, capturing the precise curvatures of the entire surface. Dr. Arnold—who was one of the first doctors in Texas to fit EyePrintPRO lenses says, “The process is precise. The patient gets the exact lens they need. These lenses are great for those with an irregular cornea due to keratoconus, corneal transplant, dry eye, LASIK or trauma. Many EyePrintPRO patients were never able to wear contact lenses before or found them difficult and uncomfortable like Ruth.” “I could tell the difference right away!” says Ruth. “Other lenses I tried were long games of trial and error. The very first pair of EyePrintPRO lenses were super comfortable. I’m now on my second pair. We adjusted my prescription and made the lenses multifocal. I can wear them all day! Thank you Dr. Arnold!” Today’s Vision Sugar Land 281-242-2020 15337 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.2020sugarland.com
Ruth Hernandez
Is Your House BEFORE
AFTER!
the Haunted House? by Marie Page
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hey’re always ugly. Spiderwebs and goblins and ghouls define a haunted house. But did you ever notice that in addition to the scary stuff, haunted houses are almost always old and outdated? You see things like:
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
A grimy, scuzzy, mold infiltrated shower A stained tub in a color so outdated, it’s an eyesore A tile kitchen counter with food particles and dirt trapped in the grout lines C hipped and cracked vanities A discolored shower pan that’s impossible to clean
Wait, does this describe your house? But we get it...you’re practical. You realize that remodeling costs both time and money, and this is an expensive list. Jonee and Paul Barnett, owners of local Miracle Method Surface Refinishing, have the answer for you: Refinish instead of replace! Jonee says, “Everyone loves a good haunted house, but scary doesn’t belong in your own home. If time has taken its toll, you don’t have to face the horror of pulling it all out and replacing everything. With Miracle Method Surface Refinishing, we can transform your tub, sink, shower pan, tile, countertops and vanity...and make all those nicks and cracks disappear!” The Miracle Method makes years of damage seem like a bad dream. Paul says, “All surface damage to tiles, tubs, and counters is cleaned, filled and sanded before we refinish. Not only can we refinish bathtubs and tile, but we can create a stylish twotoned look as well. We refinish your tub in one, solid color. Then we can refinish the surrounding tile in your tub, your shower, your sink, counter or your floor with Natural Accents™ for the multicolored appearance and texture of stone. We seal in all grout lines, making it easy to clean and maintain. We take your bathroom and kitchen from creepy to dreamy at a fraction of the cost of replacement, saving you time and money.” If your home looks ready to accommodate the Addams Family...don’t be afraid of change. Banish the creepiness with a call to Miracle Method Surface Refinishing.
Paul an d Jone Barnett e
www.upclosemagazine.com
Jonee and Paul are proud to be accredited members of the BBB, have an A rating on Angie’s List and have won the Angie’s List Super Service Award nine years in a row. “We don’t believe in living with a dreadful, nightmarish house,” says Jonee. “Call us today, and we’ll make everything new again!” Miracle Method Surface Refinishing 281-240-2284 603 Murphy Road, Stafford, TX (call for hours) www.miraclemethod.com/ houstonsw
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Next Stop...
INJURED DURING A
RESCUE ATTEMPT
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by Amy Sharp
obbie Roberson from Dayton injured his shoulder while trying to rescue his wife’s grandparents by boat during Hurricane Harvey. “Minutes after launch, we got stuck in a current. The trolling motor messed up and a telephone pole was heading toward us. As I leaned over to try and push away from the pole, we got caught by a fence under the water. I was launched onto the telephone pole.” With many issues, Robbie never made the rescue. The grandparents were rescued by authorities the following morning and taken to the George R. Brown. Back home in Dayton, Robbie was without a way out. He was trapped between the exploding chemical plant in Crosby and the flood waters. After days in severe pain, he went to a nearby hospital. “They gave me some drugs, suggested I pick up a sling at a medical supply center, and sent me home.” A week later, Robbie was not better. He says,
“I grew up with Dr. Shannon Orsak. I see him occasionally on Channel 2 news, but I had not spoken to him in thirty years. I emailed him, told him my situation and asked what I could do. Thirty minutes later he called me and requested I visit his orthopedic surgeon at St. Michael’s Emergency Rooms.” “My wife and I had never been in an ER that nice! I was seen before I ever finished my paperwork. I learned I wasn’t wearing the sling correctly...no one at the hospital had shown me how to use it. No wonder my shoulder hurt so badly! They explained everything and set me up with an MRI. I felt very comfortable when I left.” The MRI revealed Robbie’s shoulder will not require surgery...just rest and a little therapy. “St. Michael’s did everything they could to help me. It was worth the 1 ½ hour drive. Dr. Orsak needs to open one of his ER’s everywhere. It’s the best place I’ve ever been!”
St. Michael’s accepts more than 200 insurance plans, including Cigna, Blue Cross, United, and Humana. Your insurance MUST pay in-network benefits at the ER of YOUR CHOICE whether the emergency room you choose is “in-network” or “out-of-network.” At this time St. Michael’s, due to governmental bureaucratic decisions, is unable to participate in Medicare, Medicaid, or Tricare.
16062 SW Freeway (at Hwy 6) Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-980-HELP (4357) UPCLOSE ~ October 2017
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Are HGTV’s Short Timelines and Affordable Budgets Real?
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by Amy Sharp
or over a year and a half, Patricia and William Travis III wanted a new shower. Patricia says, “We talked to a lot of people, and were never satisfied. All of the bids were astronomical and the longevity of the timelines were depressing! I’ve been reading UpClose magazine forever, and for about four months I paid serious attention to articles about Teri Gilberg (better known as ‘The Re-Modelista’). Feeling good about what I read, I told my husband we really needed to call her. He was doubtful, but did it. We had tried everything else!” Teri came out to the Travis’ home to do an estimate. “William found Teri very easy to communicate with,” says Patricia. “She was to the point and down to earth, like one of the boys. I like my granite, floors and jacuzzi tub, and I didn’t want to touch them. In addition to the new shower, we wanted to paint the cabinets, take down the wallpaper and paint, and cut the mirrors down. William felt comfortable Teri understood what we wanted. She sent our bid by email, and we were afraid to open it. When we finally did, we thought, ‘What a minute, are you serious?’ We even called Teri to confirm. It was so reasonable and the timeline was only two weeks. When we realized that was in fact our bid, William just lit up like a Christmas tree!” To help choose materials, Teri recommended Patricia and William visit Christine at ProSource. Patricia says, “We took pictures and showed Christine the floor, granite and tub we were keeping. Teri gave her the measurements so she knew exactly what we needed. Without ever coming to our house,
Christine helped us match everything and ordered the right amount of materials. During construction, Teri was at our house daily communicating with both us and her workers. Everything was spot on. And start to finish, we were done in just under two weeks. It’s beautiful!” “My husband and I watch a lot of HGTV. We were starting to wonder if it was really real. Can you really redo a bathroom in a short amount of time on a budget? Are they really getting it done? Teri was the only one to give us that type of price, and she finished in less than two weeks. William and I are still talking about that! When people ask who did my shower, I tell them, ‘You will not believe it, you have to call Teri!’ I will be using her in the future. In fact, I’ve already spoken to her about remodeling my kitchen!”
Re-Modelista: Your Home Renovation Specialist Specializes in Kitchen and Bath Remodels “She Gets the Job Done!” 832-535-2501 • cell: 832-731-3191 www.theremodelista.com
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UPCLOSE ~ October 2017 ~ 11
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You want a Custom CAR, Custom BOAT, Custom HOUSE
Why not Customized MEDICINE? I
by Marie Page
n today’s world of branded and generic medications, most of us are accustomed to taking pre-fabricated pharmaceuticals in standard dosages and delivery systems. But sometimes, the one-size-fits-all approach to medication simply doesn’t work. If you happen to need a rare or hard-to-find medication, have very finely-tuned needs in terms of dosages, have allergies, or require an alternate delivery system, these pre-fabricated pharmaceuticals may not be the right medicine for you. Founder of Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy, Dr. Lance Campbell, Pharm.D., R.Ph., says, “Many people are allergic to inert ingredients such as lactose, sugar, and gluten, as well as the dyes and preservatives used in the manufacturing of many standardized medications. At Campbell’s Compounding, we can create the exact pharmaceutical compound that you need, while eliminating the inactive ingredients that may cause allergies or trigger sensitivities. For many allergy sufferers, this provides muchneeded relief from their allergy-related symptoms!” Compounded pharmaceuticals can be designed around a variety of delivery systems, depending on your needs and preferences. Dr.
Campbell says, “Many oral medications have an unpleasant flavor. We can improve the palatability of your medication without compromising its efficacy. It’s great for kids! In other cases, patients with difficulty swallowing might prefer to absorb their medications in a liquid form rather than swallow a pill or capsule. In some cases, topical applications are also available.” C a m p b e l l ’s C o m p o u n d i n g Pharmacy prides itself on customer Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy service by providing a family “If our staff can’t make it… then you probably don’t need it!” feel. In addition to custom compounded medications, they Sugar Land • 281-980-2555 stock all commercially available 4760 Sweetwater Blvd. Suite 103 medications and will accept and bill your insurance company. Dr. Houston • 713-668-4833 Campbell says, “We work hard to 6603 Kirby Dr., Houston, TX 77005 help your family feel their best!”
www.campbellscompounding.com
Local Dentist’s Daughter Recreates
“The Battle of the Sexes”
by Marie Page t’s 1973, and Houston’s Astrodome is playing host to one of the biggest pop culture events of all time, as Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs face-off in “The Battle of the Sexes” tennis match. Balls is a spectacular new work created by New York’s acclaimed One Year Lease Theater Company. It bounces the most memorable tennis event of all-time off the cultural debates it ignited. Co-written by Tony award-nominee Bryony Lavery and Stage Edinburgh award-winner Kevin Armento, Balls features a shot-by-shot re-imagining of the entire match, in a carnival-like atmosphere. And calling these shots as Movement Director is Fort Bend County native Natalie Lomonte, daughter of local dentist Dr. Thomas Lomonte, D.D.S. “One of my main goals in Balls,” says Natalie, “is to really unearth the energy and the vibrancy of the game of tennis. With Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, studying their natural athleticism, their style, their different personalities and their sheer grit, there is endless amounts of delicious source material.” Natalie’s trained in dance her entire life. First with her mom Cynde at Cynde Lomonte’s Dance Dimensions Studio in Missouri City. After she graduated from Dulles High School, Natalie studied at Marymount Manhattan College and toured with Momix, Pilobolus and the Parsons Dance Company. You may have seen her in the movie Sex and the City 2 as one of the two dancers with Liza Minelli. The world premiere of Balls is right here in Houston, October 11-29 at Stages Repertory Theatre. Then in January, Balls bounces into New York City to 59E59 Street Theatres for a six week off-Broadway run. Dr. Lomonte says, “My patients who’ve watched her Come in grow over the years, Natalie’s classmates from Dulles, and as a patient of course her mom and brother and I are all thrilled that and leave Natalie’s representing Fort Bend County in Balls. We can’t wait as a friend! for opening night!”
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To advertise, 281-235-0600
Balls World Premiere! October 11-29
Stages Repertory Theatre, Houston For information and tickets, visit www.stagestheatre.com. Thomas M. Lomonte, D.D.S.
“Come in as a patient, leave as a friend.” 12122 Murphy Rd., Stafford, TX 77477 (281) 530-1440 www.drthomaslomonte.com
Not Just Strong It’s Hard To Stop A Trane
Fort Bend Strong!
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hen Janice first heard that Hurricane Harvey was barreling toward the Texas coast, she assumed it would be a high-wind, high-water event. But nothing prepared her for the sheer devastation that followed. Within a matter of hours, most of her neighbors only two blocks away were stranded on their roofs, frightened, heartbroken, waiting to be rescued. Janice and her family waded their way to drier ground until Janice’s brother-inlaw was able to retrieve them in his four-wheel truck. For hours, all she did was make phone calls and organize rescue efforts for her friends and neighbors. When the water receded, Janice helped clean out the debris in homes that had been devastated by Harvey. She kept at it until the mold made her too sick to get out of bed. The real surprise was how long it took her own house to drain. By the time she got back in there, every stick of furniture on the first floor was ruined. Janice and her family began the long arduous process of getting their lives back together. And although her air conditioner had flooded, it seemed dry enough now. She was
by Olivia Cane
actually on her way to turn it on when one of the neighbors she’d helped told her that once an air conditioner had flooded, it was dangerous to turn on. He recommended—correctly— to have the unit inspected. Brian Jackson and his crew at Jackson Air and Heat are offering FREE air conditioner inspections to areas that have flooded. As a long time resident of the Fort Bend area, Brian feels how necessary it is to do everything he can to ensure that Fort Bend residents are safe. “If you suspect your air conditioner was flooded, do not turn it on,” urges Brian. “Call us first and let us do a free thorough inspection before you accidentally do more damage or put yourself in possible danger. If there’s a problem, we will find it. We’ve been serving the Fort Bend/Houston area since 1982 and have seen firsthand the kind of devastation water brings.” If your air conditioner needs replacing, Brian’s got you covered. “We could carry any brand of air conditioner,” explains Brian. “But we choose Trane and highly recommend the Trane XV20i with TruComfort® Technology. In fact, we are Sugar Land’s oldest independent Trane dealer, which really tells you just
how efficient, effective and cost-saving these systems are at keeping every room in the house air conditioned—without hot spots or high energy bills.” “Right now, Trane is offering your choice of 0% financing or instant rebate. At Jackson Air and Heat, we are committed to giving you the best air conditioning/heating equipment and the best professional installation with a 100% money back guarantee.” Stay strong Fort Bend! And call Jackson Air and Heat for your free inspection today.
Jackson Air and Heat, Inc. Sugar Land’s Oldest Independent Trane Dealer License #TACLB29585 281-301-1403
www.LicenseToChill.us
New Floors After the Flood
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by Marie Page hen the outer bands of Hurricane Harvey dumped copious amounts of water on Fort Bend County, the floors in Wayne Chandler’s Village of Oak Lake home were ruined. “That Saturday night we had muddy water in our garage and at the front door. Then it was in the bathroom. By Sunday night at 9 o’clock we had an inch of water in every room. A sickening thing.” The Chandlers’ laminate flooring had been installed by nearby Lone Star Floors many years ago. Wayne says, “My wife and I were up using the shop vac and mopping until 5am. I called Lone Star Floors Monday morning as soon as they opened. Ziad Mukhaimer (co-owner of Lone Star Floors) came out and did an inspection and evaluation. Within an hour he provided a price quote I was pleased with...I don’t believe I could have done better anywhere. Monday afternoon they installed dehumidifiers and large fans to adequately dry everything. After four days of drying the area 27/4, they installed our new laminate flooring. I’m so pleased with everything. They were on it quickly and did it right.” Lone Star Floors is locally owned by cousins Ziad Mukhaimer, Mohamed Naser and Imad Mansour. For 30 years, they’ve been installing flooring for neighbors like Wayne. Ziad says, “More than 75% of our business is referrals and repeats...because when you work with us, you’re never just a number. We greet you as family every time you walk through our door. We’ve been here a long time and we’ve weathered many storms. It was our pleasure to assist the Chandler family after the hurricane.” “They really are great people,” adds Wayne. “We’ve been recommending Lone Star Floors for years!”
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Lone Star Floors ~ 3 Locations 281-564-1345• 10009 Highway 6 South, Sugar Land, TX 873 South Mason Rd. #300, Katy, TX 281-398-2319 24627 I-45 North Suite # A, The Woodlands/Spring, Texas 832-813-0813 www.lonestarfloors.com
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2016 Flu Shot Toy Drive volunteers
Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Offering FREE FLU SHOTS to benefit Santa’s Exchange
W
ith fall around the corner and the holiday season not far behind, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is once again offering Fort Bend and surrounding area residents the opportunity to “give a gift and beat the flu.” Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, in collaboration with the Exchange Club of Sugar Land, Fort Bend Exchange Club, Rotary Club of Sugar Land, Rotary Club of Fort Bend and Toys for Tots Fort Bend, is offering free flu shots on Saturday, Oct. 21 to community members who participate in Santa’s Gift Exchange. Fort Bend and surrounding area residents can bring a new, unwrapped toy or clothing item to Houston Methodist Sugar Land from 8 a.m. to noon in exchange for a free flu shot. The toys and clothing will benefit local children in the Fort Bend area. “We are proud to partner again with the local exchange and rotary clubs and Toys for Tots to provide this community offering,” said Chris Siebenaler, CEO of Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “This is a great way for the community to stay healthy
while also putting smiles on children’s faces during the holiday season.” In 2016, Santa’s Gift Exchange provided toys and clothing to more than 5,000 economically disadvantaged children in Fort Bend County. “Everyone’s assistance is needed to meet the challenge of providing toys for children who will not have toys this year without our help,” said Rick Bell, chairman of Santa’s Exchange 2017. “We are looking forward to partnering with Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital for an eighth year. This is a great collaboration; get a flu shot and in return you are able to give back to the children in your community,” said Bell, a second year member of the Exchange Club of Sugar Land. “Our community is well known for its philanthropic values, so we encourage you to participate by dropping off toys or clothing even if you have already had your flu shot,” Siebenaler said.
If you would like to participate in this community event, please bring a new, unwrapped toy or clothing item to the Main Pavilion lobby of Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital between 8 a.m. and noon Saturday, Oct. 21. For more information, please visit events.houstonmethodist. org/flushot-sl or call 281.275.0751. The flu vaccine is indicated for active immunization for the prevention of influenza disease caused by influenza virus subtypes A and B. Vaccination with the flu vaccine may not protect all people who receive the vaccine. Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital will be distributing a limited supply of the influenza vaccine to persons age 18 and over with no history of GuillainBarre Syndrome or rubber latex allergy. If you are pregnant, please visit your obstetrician-gynecologist or primary care physician to have your vaccine administered.
16811 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77479
houstonmethodist.org/sugarland
www.upclosemagazine.com
UPCLOSE ~ October 2017 ~ 15
Diamonds are a Girl’s (and Guy’s!) Best Friend... by Amy Sharp ...and now everyone can have “friends for life” with Alex help you create it! “That’s right,” says Alex. “This same Dharia Diamonds, the Plaza Jewelers custom jewelry line design process—the CAD/CAM plus 3D rendering— created by Alex Dharia, Head of Marketing at Plaza Jewelers allows us to create anything you can imagine. My team has been creating custom work for over 20 and son of owners Samir and Marlene Dharia. So what inspired Alex to create his own line? “I wanted years. In addition to design, we offer diamond consultations where we help to create jewelry that appeals to my you pick your diamonds. generation,” says Alex. “These are “I wanted to create How big? What color? What’s personalized things, hip-hop jewelry, jewelry that appeals your budget? Then together bling pieces and engagement rings to my generation” we design your ring, chain, in exclusive designs that are easily bracelet, earrings...whatever accessible and readily available right you want. Then we build here in Sugar Land.” What’s hip-hop jewelry and bling? If you’ve ever longed for a ring, chain or it for you!” In business since 1991, Plaza Jewelers enjoys bracelet similar to those donned by your favorite rap star, Alex Dharia Diamonds has what you’re looking for. “It’s all a tradition of excellence. Three generations of possible because we do CAD/CAM (computer-aided design the Dharia family are integrally involved in daily and computer-aided manufacturing) and 3D wax rendering operations, and all are excited about Alex’s new right here in the store,” says Alex. “So the possibilities are line of jewelry. See the possibilities! Visit “Alex endless! From New York to LA, we’re creating pieces that Dharia Diamonds” on Facebook and Instagram (@ad.diamonds). appeal to what I call a ‘younger crowd.’” And if Alex doesn’t have what you’re looking for, he can
PLAZA JEWELERS | 713-772-2600 | 14033 SOUTHWEST FREEWAY, SUITE 705 SUGAR LAND, TX 77478 | WWW.PLAZAJW.COM
COOL RELIEF FOR THIS COLLEGE ATHLETE BY DONNA REED
One day after a morning workout, Briana De Los Santos decided she wanted to know more about cryotherapy...a treatment that uses cold temperatures to reduce inflammation, boost metabolism, and increase energy. Briana’s workout that day wasn’t far from iCRYO Sugar Land. A power forward basketball player with the University of St. Thomas, Briana has been battling knee problems—including tendonitis—which she discussed with the staff at iCRYO. They in turn explained whole body cryotherapy, where cold temperatures allow for vasoconstriction (a narrowing of blood vessels), causing new cells to grow and injured cells to heal. “They told me the benefits included helping ease muscle aches, arthritis and tendonitis. Everyone was so helpful explaining what they do, and after talking with them, I decided to try out their program.” Briana bought a three month unlimited package, where she does two whole body freezes and one NormaTec thirty minute compression therapy session a day. “Before my first whole body freeze, the staff gave me a lot of background information,” continues Briana. “They explained the safety requirements of only keeping my feet and hands covered, and how I would experience a 30 degree drop in body temperature.” Briana describes the whole body freeze as “cold...but you stay inside for only three minutes, and the staff is great the entire time. They stay with you and talk you through it.” It wasn’t painful she says, and she felt immediate improvement with her knee pain. The NormaTec therapy does not include cold temperatures, but the benefits are equally beneficial. “With the NormaTec machine, you sit on a recliner with your feet up and wear long boots that cover your legs. The machine compresses your legs and increases blood flow. It’s really relaxing.” Locally owned by Joseph Uduma, iCRYO Sugar Land offers affordable whole body cryotherapy, localized cryotherapy, cryo facials, NormaTec compression therapy and an infrared sauna. Briana says, “The staff is amazing. They connect with their customers one on one. They are very helpful, encouraging and knowledgeable on what cryotherapy is all about. And I could immediately tell the difference with my knees!”
16 ~ UPCLOSE ~ October 2017
Briana also enjoys the benefits of the Earthcraft Juicery drinks now available at iCRYO.
iCRYO Sugar Land 832-471-6842 19875 Southwest Fwy #140 Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.icryo.com
mited-time savings. Come in to SARA Appliance & Electronics for all of your appliance needs! Sale on All Major Appliances and Electronics ur Ask About O
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Sara Appliance and Electronics ~ www.saraae.com
© 2017 BSH Home Appliances. *Receive a 15% mail-in rebate when you purchase three (3) or more qualifying Benchmark™ Bosch kitchen appliances. Or, purchase at least three (3) qualifying 800 Series or above Bosch Kitchen Appliances and receive a 12% rebate of the purchase price. Or, purchase any (3) or more qualifying Ascenta, 300, 500 or 800 Series Bosch Kitchen Appliances and receive a 10% rebate of the purchase price. Products must be purchased in the same transaction between July 1, 2017 to November, 2017. Valid only at select Bosch Authorized Dealers. Not eligible at the following locations nationwide: Lowe’s, Sears or Best Buy. Eligible at Pacific Sales Stand Alone (SAS) locations in California. All other Pacific Sales/ Pacific Kitchen and Home locations excluded. Rebate via prepaid American Express® Reward card. Cards will not have cash access and can be used everywhere American Express® cards are accepted. Please visit bosch-home.com/us/special-offers-promotions.html for all Terms and Limitations.
APPLIANCE & ELECTRONICS
16820 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-277-1522 Family owned & operated since 1981
? WEATHERING ASK MARGIE
The Lawyer Who Cares
Life
the Storms
of
T
by Amy Sharp
he death of a loved one, divorce, or disability of aging parents can bring extreme stress into one’s life. Fort Bend attorney Margie Connolly specializes in assisting clients through the storms of life with compassion and a purpose, resolving legal issues as smoothly and effectively as possible. Gladi Hartman understands this better than anyone. Shortly after Margie helped Gladi and her husband Jim set up their wills and get their affairs in order, Jim passed away. Gladi says, “When we met with Margie, we had no idea things were going to move in that direction. Margie has been there for me. She’s very calming and knowledgeable. When setting up our wills, she directed us in a manner that made us feel comfortable, and ensured that we covered everything we needed to cover. Less than a year later, we lost Jim and Margie continued to guide me. All of Jim’s documents were in order and everything went nice and smooth. Very easy. Margie and I met again to change some things and make sure I continued to go in the right direction... that my children and belongings were taken care of.” Margie says, “In the days and weeks following the death of a loved one, most of us experience a sea of emotions. Unfortunately during this time, many people will also experience frustration and confusion when it comes to clearing up issues of the loved one’s estate. This process is likely not something you want to experience alone. My job is to make sure you and your loved ones are ready before the storms of life hit, and then be here as you weather the storm and move forward.” “Margie just goes above and beyond,” says Gladi. “She actually sat down with myself and my children and explained everything to them. She let them know that if there were any questions I couldn’t answer, they can always call her. She makes it a family affair, and that makes all of us much more comfortable. I absolutely recommend her.” COME SEE ME AT MY NEW LOCATION!
Margaret McCullough Connolly, PLLC
281-433-9488 • 346-309-4236 4610 Sweetwater, Suite 200, Sugar Land, Tx 77479 mmconnollylaw@gmail.com • www.mmconnollylaw.com 18 ~ UPCLOSE ~ October 2017
O
THE O
BIG DAY
GRAND OPENING
NOVEMBER 11! We’ll be celebrating and honoring our veterans. Please join us for a Veterans Day ceremony at 9am immediately followed by our Ribbon Cutting. We’ll have activities for the kids, music, a food truck and a shooting competition. Our “Texan” level and above members will enjoy a special member buffet and major giveaways. For more information on becoming a member and membership levels, visit
www.texasgunclub.com
Finally is
T
Here!
exas Gun Club officially opens its doors on Veterans Day, and General Manager Jeff Frichette and Sales Manager Ashley Shead could not be more excited! As a law enforcement handgun instructor with several certified NRA instructor ratings, Jeff is more than qualified to lead the team at Texas Gun Club. “My father took me shooting as a young boy with a .22,” says Jeff. “In my 30’s, I sought out professional training in southern Nevada, logging more than 400 hours in various firearm classes. I’ve only lived in Houston for three months, and I’m so impressed by the spirit of the community and the people on the Texas Gun Club team. So many of our employees lead out in the
by Amy Sharp
Harvey recovery efforts. It was a proud moment for me for sure. We treat our guests with that same serving spirit, like family, and we’re committed to educating our guests on firearm safety. Our mission
206 Brand Lane, Stafford, TX 77477 832-953-4GUN (4486)
is to grow shooting sports, and we’re doing that in an inclusive manner. We celebrate the legacy of our right to the second amendment and want to help our guests pass that onto their children.” Ashley landed at Texas Gun Club completely by accident. “My husband Cory and I attend church with two of the founders. They asked Cory to be a part of their Christmas promo video because he has that ‘country boy look.’ What they didn’t know is Cory is not a shooter, he sticks to fishing. I’m the shooter of the family! I learned to shoot while hunting with my dad at our deer lease. I’m so excited to be a part of Texas Gun Club. I truly believe women are reshaping the firearm industry. We’re a female-friendly range, and it’s important to us that women with no firearms experience feel comfortable walking through our doors.” Texas Gun Club is brought to you by founders Jason and Michaelle Short, Craig and April Davis, Dr. Shannon Orsak, Brian Orsak, Shannon and Kristin Tassin, and Mat Yelvington. At this brand new, state of the art facility, Texas Gun Club offers a fun, friendly and safe environment for shooters of all backgrounds...including a variety of classes for beginner shooters to more advanced tactical training classes. Meet the entire team and tour the facility at the Grand Opening on November 11!
WWW.TEXASGUNCLUB.COM UPCLOSE ~ October 2017 ~ 19
Fall into a Clean Home! E
veryone talks about spring cleaning...but what about fall cleaning? It makes perfect sense for us Texans. We’ve been holed up in the A/C all summer, and it’s time to give things a thorough freshening up when the weather finally gives us a break. Plus, with the holidays just around the corner—and the guests, parties, and decorating—there couldn’t be a better time. And there could not be better help than Mahoney’s House
by Marie Page
Cleaning Services, locally owned and operated by Imelda Mahoney and her daughter Casandra. They’re cleaning experts that do a truly professional job on your home. “Our cleaning ladies uphold the highest possible standards—yours,” says Imelda. “Nothing is ever swept under the rug, and the only cobwebs you’ll see are your Halloween decorations!” All of Mahoney’s carefully screened employees are bonded and insured, and they arrive in a company car...so you’ll know just who’s pulling up to your house. They can work on a schedule or do a one-time deep cleaning, and they’re always open to discussing your needs to make sure they’re doing the job right. Have a special project? Just ask! Casandra says, “No cleaning job is too big or too small...and we haven’t heard of one yet we couldn’t do!” Falling into a sparkling home is easy when you leave it to the professionals. Give the ladies at Mahoney’s House Cleaning Services a call!
Mahoney’s House Cleaning Services • 281-777-1526 mahoneyshousecleaning@yahoo.com • www.mahoneyshousecleaningservices.com
Imelda’s Insight
With the holidays coming up, it’s time to shine your silver. But if you hate standing at the sink for hours with the polish, there’s an easier way! Line a pan with aluminum foil, and add three inches of water and a teaspoon each of baking soda and salt. Bring it to a boil on the stove and carefully add your silver pieces. Make sure the water covers them and let them simmer for two or three minutes. All of the tarnish will be transferred to the foil and voila—shining silver with a lot less elbow grease.
TAKING IT TO THE NEXT LEVEL
M
any of you already know about Sugar Land’s hottest new training facility: Koko FitClub. It’s the “digital gym” that is on the cutting edge of fitness. After an initial assessment of your fitness level and goals, they put you on a personalized program and all of your information is loaded onto a USB thumb drive. When you walk into the facility, you always know exactly what you are going to do. So, whether you choose to have a personal trainer right by your side, or use the digital coaching, Koko takes the guesswork, frustration and intimidation completely out of the equation. As a matter of fact, before you go to the gym, you can preview your upcoming workout online and even
watch short videos showing the exercises if you’d like. Alternately, that same information is displayed on your personal touch screen TV attached right to your all-in-one training equipment as you work out. Simple, elegant and effective. But not one to leave well enough alone, Koko is stepping up their game yet again! Introducing Koko X, the free motion machine designed to work functional movement. “When you work muscles, it’s easy to undertrain certain muscles. But when you train functional movements, it’s impossible to miss muscles, especially the core,” explains co-owner Mark Malhiot. “Koko X is a fantastic workout based on time intervals rather than repetitions. It’s
going to get you up, moving and having fun!” adds Mark’s wife and co-owner Veronica. All the while, your real-time heart rate is displayed so your coach can adjust your workout to keep you burning calories at just the right intensity, making it perfect for all fitness levels. The guided, personalized workout and the Koko X functional movement training along with the Koko high intensity interval training (HIIT) makes for the perfect combination to get you to your fitness goals. It’s time to do something good for yourself...so give them a call or stop by. Mark, Veronica and their team would love to show you around and get you started on your way to being in the best shape of your life!
KOKO FITCLUB OF SUGAR LAND | 18318 UNIVERSITY BLVD., STE. 300 | SUGAR LAND, TX
KOKOSUGARLAND.COM | 281-240-KOKO 20 ~ UPCLOSE ~ October 2017
5Benefits
of Repiping Your Home by Amy Sharp
I
f your house was built before 1980, there’s a good chance you have galvanized piping. Journeyman licensed plumber Luke Burkhalter of local familyowned Alan’s Plumbing says, “In these homes with galvanized pipe, we can repipe all of your supply lines with all new PEX pipe. PEX pipe is the biggest revolution in plumbing since the flush toilet. It is made from cross-linked HDPE (high density polyethylene). The HDPE is melted and continuously extruded into a tube to form a highperforming pipe.” So why should you consider repiping? Luke says, “It’s a preventative measure that can save you a lot of money in the long run. Here are the top five benefits of repiping.”
Galvanized Corrosion This is known in the plumbing industry as “Not Good.”
We can help.
We replace galvanized pipes.
look up at water stains on the ceiling. Surprise water disasters are over. 3. Clean Water–Have you ever looked inside a galvanized pipe? If you have...you’ve probably already done a repipe! Corrosion in the pipe will only get worse as time marches on. PEX pipe is rust-free!
1. Insurance Break–Have you recently tried to reinsure your house? Be prepared for the future. Homes with galvanized pipes will be harder and harder to insure, and more expensive to insure as well. Stay ahead of the game with all new PEX pipe.
4. Pressure Increase–The corrosion in galvanized pipe can decrease pipe size by half. After replacing lines with clean, rust-free PEX, you will get your water pressure back and a complimentary pipe size increase in all attic pipes.
2. No Surprises–You don’t have to worry about coming home to sheetrock that’s falling down, walk down a hallway with water on the floor, or
5. End of Problems–After a full house repipe, all toilets will have new parts and all valves will be top-notch ¼ turn Brasscraft. Every supply line will be
replaced with braided steel lines. All pipes will be insulated and strapped. There’s nothing to go wrong, and here at Alan’s we offer a lifetime warranty on the material. Alan’s Plumbing is owned by Luke’s dad, master licensed plumber Alan Burkhalter. Luke’s uncle Chris and his brother Beau plus Jeff Johnson are also journeyman licensed plumbers. Apprentices Jaime and Trevor and Luke’s other brother Jake are all working toward their journeymen license. This crew has seen thousands of leaks in our area with galvanized piping. “Quail Valley, Sugar Creek, The Meadows and most of Stafford,” says Luke. “Most any house built before 1980 has galvanized pipes.” Even if you don’t know what kind of pipe you have, you can call 281-2611064 and Luke’s mom Jennifer will set up your free consultation. If they are galvanized pipes, your consultation will include a repiping estimate. Call today! Alan’s Plumbing
281-261-1064 License M-18995
WWW.ALANS.PLUMBING www.upclosemagazine.com
UPCLOSE ~ October 2017 ~ 21
The People Evacuated. There are 35,000 species of spiders, 27 Cockroaches species are are known to carry 33 types known to have caused human of bacteria, fatalities. 6 parasitic worms and trigger asthma attacks.
A flea can jump 130 times its height.
Bed bugs prefer to hide in cracks and crevices Termites during the cause more daytime and than $2 billion come out to in damage feed on the each year, host’s blood at more property night, usually damage than while the host that caused is sleeping. by fire and windstorm combined.
Fire ant stings can cause an allergic reaction similar to a bee sting.
The Pests Moved In!
A
ccording to Judge Bob Hebert, 49,554 structures were evacuated in Fort Bend County during last month’s Hurricane Harvey flood event. While so many of us were seeking higher ground, our homes were taking on new inhabitants. Local BUGCO Pest Control owners John Onofrey and Chris Millward say, “Insects and rodents need shelter just like the rest of us. When it floods and their habitats are destroyed, they will naturally seek out shelter to protect themselves from the elements. Unfortunately, that shelter could be your home!” Common insects that try to seek shelter in your home after flooding include ants, roaches, spiders and scorpions. “If you’ve got a problem,” says John, “we can come out and do an ‘As Needed’ treatment. After a thorough inspection of your home, we treat the interior (baseboards, plumbing areas, and entry ways) and the exterior perimeter up to three feet
away from your foundation. We also knock down reachable wasp nests and spider webs. ‘As Needed’ general pest control comes with a 60 day warranty. You can call us to come back under warranty if live activity is present after 14 days.” For long-term coverage, consider BUGCO’s Perimeter of Protection plan.“Our general pest control plan entails quarterly scheduled services. By concentrating our efforts on eliminating outside the home, we reduce the need for chemical applications inside. This ‘perimeter of protection’ provides an invisible barrier helping to prevent pests from entering your home year round!” Of course, insects weren’t the only living things seeking shelter. Rising water forces small, wild animals (think rats, mice, raccoons, squirrels, possums and even snakes) to seek higher ground in order to survive. Chris says, “If pest entry routes are open, these creatures will come in! Our pest exclusion service identifies pest and wildlife entry points, and then
BUGCO Pest Control 281-240-2157 www.bugco.org
9720 Harlem Road #B3, Richmond, TX 77407 22 ~ UPCLOSE ~ October 2017
To advertise, 281-235-0600
by Amy Sharp
we block their access. We’ll look for cracks in your foundation, gaps in your siding, openings around vents, or at the point where your utilities enter your home. We’ll check your door and window screens, check your chimney and even check the eves of your home for intact screens.” And how about these MOSQUITOES! “Our mosquito population exploded after the storm!” says John. “We can make your outdoor space livable again by installing a proven mosquito misting system that uses water-based, biodegradable pyrethrum extract from the chrysanthemum flower.” Have a pond or other water feature providing a breeding ground for mosquitoes? Call BUGCO. They also do full mosquito control strategies. BUGCO offers discounts to military veterans and first responders. Now that Harvey has taken a hike, it’s time for the pests to move out. Call BUGCO and make your home your own again!
We are here to protect your home, family and business. Top 2 Bottom Inspections 281-565-4677 www.texasinspectors.net
Out of every 1,000 mosquitoes, one female carries a disease that could be fatal to humans.
HEALTH MATTERS WITH DR. STEVE HARRIS WHERE PAIN RELIEF COMES NATURALLY
Your Future Should Include a Healthy Back
S
by Sara Adams ugar Land resident, Bill Haigh, has built a successful business selling products to the oil and gas industry. His work has taken him all over the world. At the age of 72 he is showing no signs of retiring, but he is paying more attention to enhancing and protecting his quality of life. Four years ago, Bill experienced numbness in his leg as a result of some issues he was having with the discs in his back. Although he sought minimal treatment during that time period, it wasn’t until he found out his brother had to have his back surgery redone after only two years that Bill decided it was time to be more proactive about his own back’s health. Bill chose Dr. Harris of Sugar Land Health Center after reading about him in UpClose Magazine. Together, Bill and Dr. Harris agreed on a course of treatment that would improve and maintain the integrity of Bill’s spine. With the encouragement of his wife Doris, Bill decided to go forward with the entire treatment plan. He says, “We want to be able to continue to enjoy our life together and have fun with our grandchildren.” “Working with Dr. Harris has been a good experience for me,” continues Bill. “Dr. Harris is very dedicated to his science, he works with you on all issues and you can talk to him about anything. I was also very impressed with the entire staff of Sugar Land Health Center; they are knowledgeable, attentive and caring. They make you feel comfortable and welcome, and they know their patients. Working with Dr. Harris has given me the peace of mind I was looking for. In doing spinal MRIs first to establish a baseline, Dr Harris found a growth on my thyroid I didn’t know about. I would recommend him to my friends.” Well respected among his colleagues and the community as a philanthropist and humanitarian, Dr. Steve Harris offers a wide variety of chiropractic care modalities and associated therapies to help people with chronic pain or to help improve their overall musculoskeletal function and health. He is known for incorporating new technology and techniques that complement his safe and holistic approach. Dr. Harris opened Sugar Land Health Center in 1982, and recently celebrated his 40th anniversary in his chiropractic practice. Dr. Harris offers chiropractic care, pain relief, spinal decompression, rehabilitation and so much more. If you think your future would look better with a healthy back, call Sugar Land Health Center today.
($125 value)* We take great pleasure in offering a professional and friendly experience at Sugar Land Health Center in Sugar Land. Call us today at
281-980-1050 If you live with back pain, we are here to HELP. *Does not apply to Medicare or Personal Injury.
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Sugar Land Health Center 281-980-1050 3425 Highway 6, Suite 101 (behind McDonalds near Williams Trace Blvd) Sugar Land, TX 77478
www.upclosemagazine.com
UPCLOSE ~ October 2017 ~ 23
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