April-May 2018
successful LOCAL
WOMEN
IN BUSINESS
Handling Harvey: FULSHEAR
by Amy Sharp
What We’ve Learned
W
hen Hurricane Harvey entered the During Harvey, the Gulf, Fulshear Insurance Group, Fulshear Insurance Group Inc.—family-owned and operated by team did evacuate. “By Randy and Kim Stacy—was ready. “We executed our evacuation plan,” says Sunday — day three — Kim. “With the storm brewing, I made reservations we were taking claim info in Dallas for our team to relocate if needed. There’s a by phone at our remote likelihood of losing phone, power and internet when location and submitting a storm hits...all things we need to serve our clients. We have a box ready with a small printer, scanners to the carriers.” and telephones that ring anywhere with a CAT5 secure connection. I relocate with the team, and Randy stays here in town to monitor the situation.” During Harvey, the Fulshear Insurance Group team did evacuate. “By Sunday—day three—we were taking claim info by phone at our remote location and submitting to the carriers. With the river rising, we knew the situation was not good. Ultimately, we were gone eight days. In addition to filing claims, we followed up and provided claim numbers, and let our clients know when an adjuster could get to them. We also gave tips on minimizing the damage...which if you didn’t realize is the homeowner’s responsibility! Here at home, Randy worked in the community helping people, gathering supplies and facilitating rescues.” What have we learned? “That it’s important to be prepared. There were a lot of families who were not ready. You can’t carry flood insurance for six or seven years and then let it go because you haven’t used it. These storms are unpredictable, and once it’s in the Gulf...you can no longer buy insurance. And the right coverage is important. Realize there are other types of flood insurance besides FEMA. FEMA has limits that haven’t been updated in decades, so it may not be enough. Private flood policies offer higher
2 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ April-May 2018
www.upclosemagazine.com
limits and additional coverage such as additional living expenses. We can make sure you have what you need. It’s our job. Honestly, you have a policy hoping you’ll never have to use it. But if you do—as so many did during Harvey—it needs to be right for your family.” And if catastrophe does strike again, not only would you have the right coverage, you would also have Fulshear Insurance Group working—possibly from a remote location—to make sure your needs are met. Schedule a consultation today!
FulshearInsurance 281-533-9067 30415 5th Street, Suite E Fulshear, TX 77441 www.fulshearinsurance.com
T
h e
O
n e
to
S
e e
OBSESSEDwith M
DESIGNER Glasses by Amy Sharp
ariana Ramirez, owner of MYLUX MedSpa, has known Dr. Mostaghimi of Today’s Vision Cinco Ranch for years. “We had mutual friends more than 15 years ago. When my family and I learned he was opening an office in Cinco Ranch, we started seeing him for our eye care needs. I’ve been a patient for 10 years!” Dr. Mostaghimi has fitted Mariana in daily contacts and glasses. “The daily contacts are really comfortable, and a lot less work than other contacts. I can just throw them away. I have really dry eyes, and Dr. Mostaghimi has prescribed special gel drops that have really helped. Because of the dry eye, I don’t always wear my contacts...which is ok because I’m obsessed with glasses!” And Today’s Vision Cinco Ranch is the perfect place to find fabulous glasses. It’s the only office in Katy to offer hot-off-
Dr. Ali Mostaghimi
the-runway eyewear, the kind you can only find in department stores or exclusive collections. “Glasses are the ultimate fashion accessory,” says Dr. Mostaghimi. “Our experienced and professional optical staff is trained to choose a frame that’s right for you. For every face and occasion, we offer a very extensive selection of designer eyewear, including Fendi, Dior, and Gucci Runway Pieces, and now Cartier!” “I ALWAYS get compliments on all of my glasses,” says Mariana. “I have Runway Diors, limited edition RetroSuperFuture, Tom Fords, Balenciaga sunglasses, Pradas, Oliver Peoples... the list goes on. The staff always lets me know when they have something new in! They are always on top of the latest trends and brands, and can get their hands on almost any style. This team is sweet, knowledgeable and helpful. They know my style preferences...making my decision process a lot easier. I love this place!” In addition to an exciting selection of designer frames for children and adults, as a board-certified optometrist Dr. Mostaghimi diagnoses and treats refractive errors and eye diseases such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and low vision. Ocular emergencies, specialized contact lenses and LASIK consultations are all part of the vast array of services available at Today’s Vision Cinco Ranch. Mariana treats herself to fantastic glasses because they make her look her best while feeling confident and happy. It’s the same philosophy she carries for her clients at MYLUX MedSpa. “We provide the ultimate in medical aesthetic treatments, including laser hair removal, cellulite reduction, body contouring and facials at competitive prices. Our comprehensive treatments can improve appearance quickly...because everyone should feel confident in the way they look and feel.” Visit www.tvcincoranch.com and www.myluxmedspa.com to learn more about these Katy establishments! Today’s Vision Cinco Ranch 281-347-EYES (3937) 23701 Cinco Ranch Blvd Suite #170 Katy, TX 77494 www.tvcincoranch.com
UPCLOSE Katy ~ April-May 2018 ~ 3
April-May 2018
GARDEN GLITZ for the CAUSE Couture harvestgreentexas.com American Cancer Society April 14, 2018
On The Cover Katy’s Successful Women in Business 2018 Founder and Publisher Gina Pizzini
Doors open at 7:00pm, show starts at 8:00pm
Editor Gina Pizzini
a Johnson Development Community - Richmond, Texas
Business Editor Amy Sharp
FEATURING
Layout and Design Night Sky Creative
FABULOUS FOOD from local restaurants.
Account Executives Dior Burns Meghan Courtney
The Farmhouse at Harvest Green,
“BUBBLES & BAUBLES” CUSTOM DIAMOND RING RAFFLE sponsored by Plaza Jewelers BIG BOARD AUCTION WINE PULL KENDRA SCOTT JEWELRY PULL SPIRIT TASTING RAFFLE win a CUSTOM FORMAL DINNER/SPORT JACKET Margot Sayre, Stylist J. Hilburn Men’s Clothier and CUSTOM SHOES Leather Lately
Writers Olivia Cane Marie Page Donna Reed Amy Sharp Photography J. Thomas “Jay” Ford Accounting Kaitlin Ballint
2018 CHAIRS are Monique Bossett, Susan Ley-Novosad, Debbie Marcell, Michelle Royster, Margot Sayre and Gina Pizzini. Honorary chairs are Scott and KK West. presenting sponsor:
Event tickets are $125. 100% of the proceeds benefit The American Cancer Society and their mission. For more information on tickets or sponsorship opportunities, visit www.CoutureForTheCause.org or contact Tiziana.Triolo@cancer.org or 713-706-5657.
Next Month’s Feature is Successful Men in Business To have your business featured please give us a call. UpClose Magazine is published monthly and direct mailed to 150,000 homes. For information on having your business featured in UpClose, call
281-235-0600. A portion of the editorial content contained in this publication is controlled and contracted by the advertisers contained herein and is part of their advertisement. UpClose Magazine is not responsible for content of these editorials or advertisements. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.
To read an issue online: www.UpCloseMagazine.com 4 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ April-May 2018
www.upclosemagazine.com
Is it Time to
Repair or Replace
Your AC?
M
by Marie Page
aybe you’ve enjoyed the unseasonably cool (and even a little snowy!) winter. Or maybe you’re ready for it to be over. Either way, you can bet there will be nothing “unseasonably cool” about our upcoming summer! No need for a weatherman to know the forecast is HOT HOT HOT with high humidity! Is your A/C cool with that? “Head off A/C issues before they become a way of life,” says Gerald Svetlik, owner of True Fix A/C & Heating. “April is a great time to get ready for summer. You don’t want to wait until it’s 90+ outside and your system stops. We strongly encourage a maintenance inspection every spring. And definitely call if something is ‘not quite right.’ Decreased air flow, strange noises, moldy odors, ice on the unit or pipes, water dripping outside, constantly tripped breakers or blown fuses, and shorter than usual A/C cycles are all symptoms of a system not in good working condition. Nipping them in the bud may protect you from major equipment failure down the line. Plus, poorly functioning systems are typically accompanied by a higher utility bill. All the more reason to get it checked out!” But do you repair or replace? Gerald says, “A general rule of thumb is to consider a new system if yours is over ten years old...so that you can take advantage of maximum operating efficiency and energy savings. A new system can pay you back in utilities over time. Here at True Fix, we’ll give you a no-pressure rundown of the information and options you need to make the best decision for your household.” True Fix was established in 1972 and has been located in the Katy area for more than 40 years. It’s family-owned and operated and has received many awards for customer service. True Fix belongs to a prestigious group of contractors called Trane Comfort Specialists. “Backed by more than 100 years of innovation, Trane products are the best on the market,” says Gerald. “We pair Trane’s quality products with our own 100% performance guarantee. If you decide to replace your system, right now is a great time to take a look at the Trane XV20i with TruComfort® Technology. It’s the most cutting edge product available because it always gives you just the right amount of air conditioning you need with no hot spots, costing you less to run and it removes humidity like a giant dehumidifier. You can also take advantage of 0% financing or instant True Fix A/C & Heating rebates, plus rebates from Centerpoint. The savings are considerable.” 281-392-9334 Want to know if you should repair or replace before summer? Greenbusch, Katy, TX 77494 www.truefix.com Schedule an inspection with True Fix today! license#TACLB004843E.
UPCLOSE Katy ~ April-May 2018 ~ 5
“The T-Shirt Dad”
Takes Care of Katy
W
by Amy Sharp
hen Mike Forsyth (“The T-Shirt Dad!”) decided to take on the role of stay-at-home Dad in 2008, he had no idea the direction his life was headed. “I started printing stuff,” says Mike, “making goofy shirts for our church. I was encouraged by friends and family to start my own print company. An awesome guy, Chauch, offered to train me in the printing business...and 10 years later, here we are.” Word of mouth spread quickly. Mike developed a client base and earned a reputation for quick turnaround, quality products and an unparalleled commitment to giving back to the community. It wasn’t long before Mike had to move out of his garage and into his own shop! Today, Revolution Screening offers full package identity for your business, school and sports team. That’s shirts (embroidered or screen printed), pens, water bottles, banners...whatever you can think of! Not sure of your design? Revolution Screening will walk you through the process and help you come up with a concept. “We make it easy,” says Mike. And if you are a school or sports team that offers sponsorships, Revolution Screening is all in! “We deduct the price of a sponsorship from the order when you partner with us,” says Mike. “I believe in the community business, and we all benefit by working together. We see our clients as family.” Revolution Screening is a proud member of the Katy Chamber of Commerce and the Katy Hispanic Chamber, maintains an A+ rating with the BBB and stays ahead of the printing curve with current PPAI, Sage and UPIC certifications. A large part of Revolution Screening’s business is referrals. They are a Katy ISD registered vendor and Mike is now with the Rotary Club of Katy. He loves life in Cinco Ranch with Melissa and their kids Alexis and Caleb. Mike is frequently spotted coaching softball and helping out at Williams Elementary. He helped spear a T-Shirt fundraiser with Beth at the school after Hurricane Harvey that financially assisted 48 affected families. In fact, his work in his kids’ schools over the years has earned him “The T-Shirt Dad” moniker! Become part of the Revolution Screening family by working together on your next project. Check out the new showroom. It’s truly a one-stop-shop for all of your custom goods...and so much more!
6 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ April-May 2018
www.upclosemagazine.com
Revolution Screening 281-944-9110 21811 Katy Freeway, D-112 Katy, TX 77450 infotexas@revolutionscreening.com www.revolutionscreeningtexas.com
The Perfect Cars
Alexis and Sara off to college in 2012
A Classic Congratulations! This year, both girls will be graduating in May.
for College and Beyond
W
hen Ray and Diana Aguilar’s twin daughters Alexis and Sara needed a car for college, they turned to the place where Dad works: Classic Chevy Sugar Land. Ray says, “This was way back in 2012. We wanted a car they could drive their senior year at Travis High School, and then take to college. Both are softball players, and they were set to play on scholarship at Kilgore College in northeast Texas.” The family chose the Chevy Equinox for the girls, because it had lots of room and it gets great gas mileage. It was perfect. Alexis and Sara moved themselves to Kilgore College in the Equinox, along with their softball gear, microwave, and all of their boxes. And the 3.5 hour drive only used half a tank of gas! For two years, the girls drove the Equinox around Kilgore. The small SUV had so much room, several of their softball teammates ended up buying the same car. And the girls spoke so highly of their Dad and Classic Chevy Sugar Land, their softball coach came all the way to Sugar Land to buy a pickup truck from Classic Chevy Sugar Land! In 2015, it was time for the girls to move into their respective programs. Sara
by Amy Sharp
was going to Texas A&M to major in Animal Science, and Alexis to Panola College in Carthage to study nursing. Ray says, “It was up to them who kept the Equinox, and they decided Alexis would take it to Panola College. I started keeping my eye out for a car for Sara. A pre-owned Mini Cooper came in to Classic Chevy Sugar Land. As we do with all pre-owned vehicles, our mechanics thoroughly checked it out. It had been serviced well and was a great vehicle. Sara chose the Mini Cooper to drive to A&M.” Today, both girls are graduating in May. “We are so proud of them!” says Ray. And each will take their respective vehicle with them as they move to the next chapter in their life. “Safety is everything,” says Ray. “These are not new cars. In fact, the Equinox is six years old. But they have a lot of life left, and I feel very confident sending my girls out into the world in them!” It’s graduation season! If you have a graduate heading off to college soon, Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land can help ensure your precious cargo (your child!) is safe. General Manager Jeff Sebastian says, “We have a large selection of both new and pre-owned vehicles. I’m certain you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for at the right price. Stop in today!”
281-491-9000 www.classicchevysugarland.com
SHOP FORT BEND
13115 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478
Teaching Success
S
by Amy Sharp
earch Institute of Minneapolis has identified 40 building blocks that help young children grow up healthy, caring, and responsible. “Raising Highly Capable Kids”—the class hosted by Family Hope and facilitated by volunteer instructors Linda Newsome Johnson, Bill Hogan and Cristina Ledezma—is partially based on these 40 Developmental Assets, and provides a targeted demographic of parents with tools and skills to help their children succeed. “This is a crash course in being able to talk to your kids,” says Bill, a retired Air Force pilot and Pastor at WordServe Church. “Kids need to have substantial conversations with their parents. A favorite example of mine is discipline vs. punishment. Punishment is short term and kind of a ‘do back’ from the parent. In discipline, there is communication and a goal, and the child is shaped and developed as a result. We encourage parents to pick one asset and start there, maybe an asset they’re already good at. That way they experience success and a confidence boost. Then pick number two, three and four and start to fix the holes.” 8 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ April-May 2018
“I believe in all of the assets,” says Linda, who holds a Master’s in Library Science and an MBA. “But the most important is ‘Positive Identity and Positive Personal Future.’ Our youth are under such negative pressures. To remain positive through it all is a challenge. Helping parents see how to support their children to effectively build and see themselves with a positive future is worth time and investing resources. And I can speak to the circumstances. I grew up in Simonton. Way back when, someone let me know that curiosity for learning was ok...even though none of my family had done it.” All classes are taught in English and Spanish, with translation by Cristina Ledezma. “Many of these families are from completely different cultures,” says Cristina. “We are helping these parents understand what is expected of their children at school and in our culture, and in the process teaching them how to raise successful children.” The next “Raising Highly Capable Kids” class will be the third weekend of September. Family Hope Executive Director, Dr. Dale Olson, says, “We are so
www.upclosemagazine.com
ONE WORD
AT A TIME
proud to have these classes taught by our community leaders. They are people whom students can access again.” In addition to “Raising Highly Capable Kids,” Family Hope is excited to bring “upWords”— the 16 hour class focused on improving a child’s early language development—to Fulshear. Dr. Olson says, “Parents can actually increase the intelligence of their children just by the amount of words they use. This class begins in August and is open to anyone!” Family Hope is able to sponsor these parent classes thanks to a grant from The George Foundation. Dr. Olson and his wife Alene have devoted their lives to ministry. Alene teaches piano lessons at the couple’s home (one of the 40 Assets!) and is a chaplain for David Weekley Homes. Contact Family Hope to learn more about these and other programs!
Fourth Annual
FAMILY HOPE
GALA
Friday, April 27, 2018 Hemi Hideout in Brookshire Tickets and Sponsorship opportunities available at www.familyhopefulshear.org/gala All proceeds benefit Family Hope’s mission and programs.
FAMILY HOPE ~ 832-492-5136 29810 FM 1093, Fulshear, TX 77441
www.familyhopefulshear.org UPCLOSE Katy ~ April-May 2018 ~ 9
Not Just Flooring...An Entire First Floor!
A
by Amy Sharp
fter the flood waters of Hurricane Harvey, Aaron and Erin Weaver needed to rebuild their entire first floor. Erin says, “On the recommendation of a neighbor, we stopped into Lone Star Floors to look at flooring. We spoke with Sam and Terry, and learned not only do they offer flooring, but they do everything! We invited them to do an estimate on our first floor rebuild—including flooring, baseboards, the drywall up to four feet, cabinets, granite, backsplash, the bathroom counters, bathtub and shower, the fixtures, our wood steps and railing, the fireplace and painting. We got other estimates as well. However, not only did Lone Star Floors have the best price, we felt they were nice, honest and upfront with no upselling. So we made the decision to have them do the job.” “I’m indecisive,” continues Erin, “and they helped so much with design. I’ve never built or remodeled, so this was my first time. Sam, Terry, Frank, Imad and Ziad were wonderful in helping figure out my likes and my taste. I couldn’t have done it without them!” During construction, the Weaver family lived upstairs. “Lone Star Floors was very considerate of both our work schedule and our kids and big dog. They always came when they said they would, and cleaned up before leaving every day. There was practically no noise. At one point I told them they could play music...it was so quiet I didn’t know they were downstairs! They were very respectable, considerate,
500 20+ HOMES to TOUR
FABULOUS
EVENTS
14
friendly and nice. They waited to do the stairs until we were out of town, so we did not have to spend money on a hotel.” Like many Harvey victims, the Weavers still have not received 100% of their insurance money. Erin says, “Lone Star Floors has been very understanding and patient with spacing payment until the money comes in. They told us they didn’t want to leave us strapped for cash. We couldn’t have asked for a better company!” And the finished first floor? “We love it! It’s a new look and totally different. It looks so much better than before!”
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
EVERY
WEEKEND
AMAZING COMMUNITIES
during
APRIL
Dazzling! Inspiring! Exciting! The April Drools Home Tour is definitely a walk on the ‘wow!’ side. Come see jaw-dropping, drool-worthy designs from renowned home builders. Plus, you’ll love getting a closer look at how wonderful life can be in Greater Houston’s most desirable communities from Johnson Development.
For details visit
Get More from
HoustonHomeTour.com
l i r Ap ls! o o r D
JOHNSON DEVELOPMENT
presents
Largest
HOUSTON’S HOME TOUR
MORE TOP-SELLING MASTER-PLANNED COMMUNITIES THAN ANY OTHER DEVELOPER IN THE NATION! Willow Creek Farms
April Drools Upclose Magazine Katy_7.875x5_MECH2.indd 10JOHCO-0073 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ April-May 2018
1
www.upclosemagazine.com
3/15/18 4:43 PM
Twenty
YEARS in the Making T
by Amy Sharp
aylor Robichaux is set to graduate with her MBA from Belhaven University this May. It’s an endeavor she began nearly 20 years ago. “I started my Master’s program right after getting my undergraduate degree,” says Taylor. “I was nearly finished with my graduate studies when I was offered a full time leadership position that required me to relocate.” With her priorities shifted to learning her new role and raising her young children, time got away from Taylor. She was promoted rapidly throughout her career and relocated a few more times. “Despite multiple attempts, I didn’t complete my degree. I cringe when I think of all the money I’ve spent,” says Taylor. “I had invested in myself and had nothing tangible to show for it.” New to Houston and intrigued by a Google ad advertising Christian universities, Taylor did a search of Christian schools in this area. “Both of my adult children were at Texas Christian University, and I thought there must be a quality Christian school here. Before I knew it, I was having a conversation with Belhaven University about admissions.” Three surprises awaited Taylor about Belhaven: They gave scholarships, books were included in the price of tuition, and the education was of the highest quality. “It’s challenging,” says Taylor. “And only students that can handle the rigor and content of the program are admitted. This was important to me, and this time, I was committed to finishing my MBA. The Dean taught my very first class and he set the bar very high. He exuded the mission of the university: To prepare students academically and spiritually to serve Christ Jesus in their careers, in human relationships, and in the world of ideas. I loved that he made this so clear! I’m a former pastor’s daughter, and this was important to me. It complemented a foundation I had already established.” Taylor was so energized that first semester, she spoke to the school about serving as a student ambassador. “I wanted others to experience the level
of passion and emotion I was feeling.” A self-proclaimed workforce solutions architect, Taylor is the founder of Plane and Simple HR, LLC—a faith-based, niche human resources consultancy created to “propel people and organizations to higher altitudes .” The firm identifies and delivers human capital and organizational effectiveness strategies to aviation service providers, travel management companies, business executives, and senior-level leaders desiring to optimize their corporate and individual talent capabilities. In her role as a Human Resources executive, Taylor’s found it disheartening to witness companies who don’t operate in an ethical manner. “The Belhaven program reaffirmed that I have a moral and spiritual obligation to encourage organizations to operate in an ethical and just manner while meeting profitability goals.” Thrilled to finally finish what she started so many years ago, Taylor highly recommends Belhaven University. “It’s a no-brainer,” she says. “This is a high-quality, Christian education at a fraction of what other programs cost. I’ve enjoyed every moment of my experience at Belhaven!” SM
West Houston Campus 281-579-9977 15115 Park Row, Houston, TX 77084 houston.belhaven.edu
UPCLOSE Katy ~ April-May 2018 ~ 11
before she was an employee, she was a client. “This is a place that goes above and beyond,” says Caroline. “In my previous organization, I worked with them extensively. I was impressed with their commitment to family, community and customer service. Now that I work here, I can tell you they back up everything they say. Whether it’s a $3 job or a $3000 job, every customer is given the respect and dignity they deserve. I fell in love with Front Row Signs long before they started paying me!” For the third year in a row, Front Row Signs is proud to support many local nonprofits. “We are a small business too,” says Patti. “I would not be able to sleep at night if I didn’t feel that what we are doing here was helping this community.” Caroline adds, “I’m so blessed to work with a company that has the same values as me.” Patti and Caroline would love to meet you! Give them a call or stop by Front Row Signs!
Helping You Build Your Business by Amy Sharp
F
ront Row Signs is your Fort Bend County go-to for custom commercial business signs and graphics. But as they say, the buck doesn’t stop there! Patti Snyder, who co-owns Front Row Signs with her husband Jim, says, “We live where we work. We see you at church and in the school carpool line. We’re your neighbors and we are here to help you build your business.” How? It starts with the Front Row 11 Step Process, that includes not only making your signs, banners, vehicle wraps, etc., but so much more. “We want to know exactly what it is you are trying to accomplish, and then figure out what solution we can provide,” says Patti. “When we understand your business, we can better serve you. And we always promote our clients. This includes referrals, social media shoutouts and helping get the word out about special offers you might have.” Caroline Bordelon is the Project Manager at Front Row Signs. But
832-222-9385 1810 First Oaks St., Suite 160, Richmond, TX 77406 www.frontrowsigns.net
DENTAL Health: Pro Tips for Parents
Walk in With a Smile, Walk Out With a Smile D o you put the “pro” in procrastinate? Don’t feel bad—a lot of people do. And we’re especially good at putting off chores and errands we dread doing, like rounding up the kids, wrangling them into the car, and taking them to the dentist. Unless, of course, your kids’ dentist happens to be Dr. Faisal M. Khan, DDS, of Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental. Because the minute you say those exact words, as if by magic, all children stampede toward the car. How, you ask, is this possible? “We go out of our way to make sure visiting the dentist is fun,” says Dr. Khan, whose own three kids constantly remind him of what “fun” actually looks like. “As a Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist and Diplomat of Pediatric Dentistry, I’ve had three years of specialized study in child psychology. That’s why we work so hard to make your child’s experience of seeing a dentist as stress-free as possible. Happy kids make for happy patients. And it’s a lot easier to look inside a mouth that’s smiling than a mouth that’s yelling.” In the spirit of kid-worthy fun (and who knows more about fun than your kids do?) the first thing you’ll see when you walk into Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental is a floorto-ceiling undersea mural. Exam tables are never institutional or scary. Instead, they’re orange-and-white surfboards. Teeth cleanings happen beneath ceiling-mounted TV screens and dental procedures are done in the “Turtle Hut” and “Dolphin Cove.” Toys and games are everywhere and no opportunity overlooked to employ a delightful bit of kid-approved whimsy. “An incredible amount of progress has been made in pediatric dentistry,” says Dr. Khan. “Not just in terms of silent drills and painless procedures, but the psychological component of making your kids feel relaxed and happy. And that means parents are happy too.”
12 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ April-May 2018
by Olivia Cane “One of the best times to schedule an appointment with us is at the beginning of the summer. Kids are out of school. It’s not as hectic battling rush hour traffic to get places. And now you have nothing to fear and no reason to procrastinate. Come see us! Your whole family will leave here with a smile.”
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
To advertise, 281-235-0600
Fun and Affordable Family
Fitness by Amy Sharp
A
shlie Holdorf grew up dancing and playing sports. She’s taught dance and has been a certified personal trainer since she was 18 years old. She says, “I worked in different personal training studios and I managed group fitness facilities. I had the chance to learn what other studios were doing wrong. They were always overpriced and felt intimidating. Fitness studios should be fun and have a come as you are type vibe... you should be excited to go. This alone will increase your chances of success. I’ve seen people fail just because of the environment. I wanted to change that.” With this in mind, Ashlie created VIBE Fitness: a boutique group fitness studio offering fun and unique classes you’re sure to enjoy! “We do strength classes on surfboards, dance classes, a ‘POUND’ class where you drum your way to cardio fitness, aerial silks classes and so much more. Parents can let the little kids play in our playroom and the older kids are invited to join class if they like. Each class is a different style (with more than 10 styles available!) and I love that it’s affordable for families.” How affordable? The entire family can join in the unlimited fun for less than $100/month. Then just pick your classes and make your reservations through the VIBE Fitness app. The concept is so popular, VIBE Fitness recently expanded their space. In addition to a bigger studio, there’s now a hairstylist, massage therapist and esthetician on-site. “You can get in a fun workout, get waxed and get your hair done before a meeting,” says Ashlie. “A one-stop-shop.”
Ashlie and her husband Luke have lived in Houston for almost ten years. Twelve-year-old Lindsay loves VIBE’s children’s aerial silks class and four-year-old Isabella likes the mommy and me version. Little Natalie was born during Hurricane Harvey. Take advantage of the VIBE Fitness 5-day trial pass and try as many classes as you like. Ashlie says, “It makes my whole life when people who feel like they CAN’T, come in here and then feel amazed and excited that they did it. It’s great seeing that!” For a complete list of classes, visit www. vibewithustexas.com.
VIBE Fitness 832-419-5397 1800 S. Mason Rd, #220 Katy, TX 77450
www.vibewithustexas.com UPCLOSE Katy ~ April-May 2018 ~ 13
Heel Pain? M
by Dr. Jeanna Mascorro
any people suffer with heel pain daily. It is one of the most common problems seen in our office. If left untreated, it can continue to get worse and linger for years...or possibly a lifetime. The good news is most patients require nonoperative treatment. The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, or inflammation of the ligamentous band in the arch of the foot. Plantar fasciitis is typically seen in people with abnormally low or high arches. Plantar fasciitis is also caused by walking or standing on hard surfaces and wearing non-supportive shoes or going barefoot—all things that our feet were not made for! Stretching everyday and wearing shoes with support are important. For women, shoes with a heel or wedge are best (1-2 inches only) and it is best to avoid flats. Supportive running tennis shoes are recommended and will likely require an over the counter insert in them. Do not wear low profile front to back tennis shoes— these keep me in business! We carry VIONICS: flip flops, wedges, dress shoes, and slippers that are made for plantar fasciitis and they have amazing arch support. If you have a health savings account, you can use it to purchase them from our office. Some patients may also have a heel spur, or bony growth, at the fascia insertion into the heel bone. This is due to tension and pulling
ALLIES IN INFORMATION DESTRUCTION
of the fascia and does not actually cause the pain. The inflammation of the fascia itself is what causes pain. Other causes of heel pain are less likely but must be considered. They include a stress fracture, tendonitis, arthritis, cyst, tumor or nerve irritation. In children, heel pain is likely caused by Sever’s disease—a growth plate issue that also requires treatment or the pain can be severe and occur for years. Whatever the cause, it is important to be evaluated and start treatment as soon as possible to begin living pain free once again! We are also offering stem cell injections to treat the problem if needed.
Fulshear Foot and Ankle 281-391-1212 7609 Tiki Drive, Suite D, Fulshear, Texas 77441 www.fulshearfootandankle.com
Wellness Plans as low as $20/m Contact us for Details
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
KatyVet.com
281-398-1551
Typhoon Texas 555 S. Katy Fort Bend Road Katy, TX 77494
Hosted by Typhoon Texas 14 ~ UPCLOSE Katy ~ April-May 2018
www.upclosemagazine.com
The Best Cat Hull
s xa Te F in
by Amy Sharp
ishing is in Dave Kveton’s blood. “I’ve fished saltwater all my life,” says Dave. “At three, my dad would take me out to Port Bolivar in boats he built. My own son mastered the rod and reel by five. In 1995, I opened El Pescador Lodge in Port O’Connor so I could spend my days doing what I love best.” But a boat ride with a friend in 1999 changed Dave’s career path. “It was the best ride I’d ever had,” says Dave. “So good in fact...I bought the company. (But don’t worry...I still find plenty of time for fishing!)”
Today El Pescador Boats offers the fastest catamaran hull (cat hull) shallow water boat in it’s class. “There’s a lot of players in this space,” says Dave, “and we waited...looking at the good and the bad before we designed one ourselves. The hull is constructed with the most up-todate composite available (no wood!) and it does it all. It runs shallow, comes up shallow, and it’s an extremely dry and comfortable ride. Even in 20-30 mph winds...you can fish. Just today I was running with my three anglers from Baffin Bay back to Flour Bluff in a northeast wind 25+ mph all the way. It was a fast, smooth and dry ride with a 2 ft chop and never got a drop
of water on anyone.” And these cats—favorites of professional guides, serious sports fishermen, and weekenders alike—aren’t mass produced. They’re custom built. “Come in and we can put together a design, then build to your specifications. Choose your Evinrude E-TEC G2, pick a color (or two!)...then outfit as you wish. We can do power poles, GPS, stereo and trolling motors.” Have a new idea? “Show it to us and if it works...we’ll build it.” Call Dave for a demo ride today and experience the best cat hull in Texas for yourself!
El Pescador Boats ~ Dave Kveton ~ 979-292-5144
www.elpescadorboats.com UPCLOSE Katy ~ April-May 2018 ~ 15
EL PESCADOR RECOGNIZED AS TEXAS’ PREMIER CUSTOMIZED BOAT
24CAT New 21CAT Now Available THE SMALLER VERSION OF OUR 24CAT
Experience the Ultimate
Fast, Dry, and Smooth Ride with El Pescador Boats - 24 or 21CAT
SPECIFICATIONS • Overall length 24’4” • Beam - 101’
• Draft - 7.5” • Will run in 4”
• Will get up in 10” • Hull weight 1620 lbs.
• Maximum 300HP • Fuel capacity - 60 gallons
For more information or a demo ride, call
979-292-5144
ElPescadorBoats.com