October 2019
Magazine
The
p werof
teamwork
Coming Together to
At Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, a collaborative approach to breast care brings together the right physicians, the best technology and an understanding of patient needs.
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nehal Mehta thought she was too young to have breast cancer. Mehta, a Sugar Land resident, was just 42 years old when her doctor found an abnormality during her first-ever mammogram in December 2017. Her doctor recommended that she undergo more testing, including a breast biopsy with ultrasound.
Like many women, however, Mehta had a lot going on in her life. She was in the middle of a job change, and as a wife and mother to two young daughters, her home life was busy. So she put off the follow-up for three months.
“I have no family history of breast cancer,” she said. “I just thought I had time.” But the news from additional testing wasn’t good. The biopsy performed at the Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land revealed that Mehta did, indeed, have cancer. “I was totally in shock,” she said. “And I realized I shouldn’t have waited. If I had gone in for my mammogram at age 40, as recommended, I might have been able to avoid some of what I went through,” said Mehta. “It’s important that women take care of their
RadiationOncology
Board-certified radiation oncologist Clive Shkedy, M.D., utilizes the most sophisticated technology to provide state-of-the-art treatment for cancer patients from across Fort Bend County and surrounding areas.
The Radiation Oncology team specializes in external beam therapy; intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT); stereotactic radiosurgery (SBRT) and high dose rate (HDR)
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brachytherapy. These advancements allow for more targeted radiation delivery, reducing side effects and for some patients, minimizing the number of treatments necessary. The Cancer Center is close to home, and the comfortable surroundings and compassionate staff make each session as stress-free as possible.
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Beat Breast Cancer own health … and that includes regular mammograms. It can save your life.”
The power of teamwork To make up for her delay, Mehta immediately sought help from Houston Methodist Sugar Land’s experienced breast cancer team. Houston Methodist Sugar Land’s multidisciplinary team works together to develop individualized care plans that meet each patient’s unique needs – from surgery, radiation and chemotherapy to nutrition, physical therapy, emotional support and financial assistance. “Getting a breast cancer diagnosis involves so much more than just treatment, which is challenging enough,” said board-certified breast surgeon Sandra Templeton, M.D. “There are many issues that women face that can make fighting cancer even more difficult. That’s why it’s important to listen to and understand our patients so that we are providing the full range of services in a way that gives each individual woman not just the care she needs, but also the support.” The collaborative approach utilized by the hospital’s knowledgeable breast cancer team is powerful. After diagnosis and throughout treatment, team members share information and ideas to ensure that the care plan is on track, or is adjusted as needed, and that every aspect of care is being considered and included. Along the way, physicians and staff provide ongoing support and assistance, with an oncology nurse navigator who is available to facilitate appointment scheduling, serve as an information resource and connect patients to valuable services, including support groups, yoga, music therapy and more. In addition to its coordinated approach, Houston Methodist Sugar Land provides the complete range of breast care services and procedures in one convenient location – from routine mammograms at the Breast Care Center to more in-depth diagnostic procedures and finally, if needed, specialized oncology treatment at the hospital’s Cancer Center. “Our fellowship-trained breast imaging radiologists are trained to review your mammogram history and track results over time to detect changes earlier,” said Templeton. “That’s why scheduling your mammogram starting at age 40 is so important, so we can monitor any changes and address them right away.” The Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land offers the latest,
Strength in Services
Houston Methodist Sugar Land’s recently expanded and upgraded Breast Care Center offers the area’s most advanced imaging technologies in a calm, comfortable, spa-like environment.
The Breast Care Center offers: • 3D screening and diagnostic mammography • Breast MRI • Breast ultrasound • Ductography • Image-guided biopsies, including ultrasound, stereotactic, 3D and MRI • Bone density scans
Easily schedule your 3D screening mammogram online at houstonmethodist.org/imaging or call 281.436.9513. most advanced technology for accurate and detailed imaging results. It’s convenient, comforting and close to home, removing much of the stress of care. “Every time I had to come to the hospital, someone came with me to provide support,” said Mehta. “That wouldn’t have been possible had I needed to go into the medical center for treatment. My family and friends were able to rally around me because I was always close by.”
The benefits of clinical trials One of the benefits of choosing Houston Methodist Sugar Land is access to a range of clinical trials. The hospital is currently conducting 30 active clinical trials, including several related to breast cancer. After identifying Mehta’s cancer as a nonaggressive ductal carcinoma, Templeton recommended that she consider participating in a clinical trial to help shrink her tumor before surgery and perhaps avoid or shorten chemotherapy treatment. For 16 weeks, Mehta took six doses of the medication each week, along with other breast cancer medications, under the care of board-certified medical oncologist Sindhu Nair, M.D., with Houston Methodist Oncology Partners in Sugar Land. “At the end of the trial, I underwent another MRI, and the tumor had shrunk significantly,” Mehta said. During surgery, Templeton removed what was left of the tumor and surrounding lymph nodes. Because one of those lymph
nodes tested positive for cancer, Mehta eventually underwent chemotherapy at Houston Methodist Sugar Land’s Infusion Center – but she needed just four rounds, rather than the traditional 16, thanks to the clinical trial. “Having access to clinical trials – right here in Sugar Land – is a definite advantage,” said Nair. “We can offer new and promising treatments that you simply can’t get elsewhere, and for patients like Mrs. Mehta, it can make all the difference.” Mehta also had radiation treatment with board-certified radiation oncologist Clive Shkedy, M.D., at the Houston Methodist Cancer Center at Sugar Land. “Everyone at Houston Methodist Sugar Land – Dr. Templeton, Dr. Nair, Dr. Shkedy and all the nurses and staff – treated me so well,” said Mehta. “I got the best possible care from my team. They treated me like family.”
To make an appointment with Dr. Nair, call 281.201.6669. To make an appointment with Dr. Templeton, call 281.724.4276.
16655 Southwest Fwy. Sugar Land, TX 77479
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“He’s the
best!” by Sara Adams
K
athleen Saka has been suffering with varicose veins and spider veins most of her life. She was in her thirties when she first sought help for her varicose veins, and it was not a good experience. It wasn’t until her daughter Jackie grew up and had to get treatment for her own varicose veins that Kathleen found the doctor she’d been looking for. Jackie had such a good experience working with Dr. Ulises Baltazar that she called Kathleen and said, “Mom, you’ve got to come here.” Kathleen and her husband, Jim, were living in New Mexico at the time when she traveled to Sugar Land for her first consultation with Dr. Baltazar. That was fifteen years ago. Dr. Ulises Baltazar is a highly regarded vein specialist. He has extensive experience working with conditions resulting from issues of the circulatory system and is a leader in his field. Board-certified by the American Board of Surgery in Vascular Surgery, Dr. Baltazar is a member of Houston Methodist Cardiovascular Surgery Associates’ Sugar Land Vein Clinic—a practice dedicated exclusively to the treatment of venous insufficiency. Jim and Kathleen moved back to Sugar Land about five years ago. Earlier this year, she noticed her leg was swollen and it felt warm to the touch. Kathleen called Dr. Baltazar’s office and they were able to work her in right away. When Dr. Baltazar found out her husband was in the waiting room, he insisted Jim join them in the consultation while Dr. Baltazar explained the seriousness of her condition. Kathleen said that Jim felt at ease immediately with Dr. Baltazar. It was easy to establish trust. They came back that afternoon for an emergency procedure and she has felt fine ever since.
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 2019
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“Dr. Baltazar is one of the finest doctors I’ve ever met,” says Kathleen. “He feels like he is part of your family. I just felt so comfortable being there. He is professional and has such compassion for his patients. He is very respectful of his staff, too. When my husband Jim met him, he felt the same way that I do. Dr. Baltazar is a man of faith with a big heart.” When Kathleen learns that any of her friends are looking for a vascular surgeon, she says, “I tell them to go see Dr. Baltazar, he knows exactly what he is doing. He’s the best!”
Goods That
“ What a blessing Mercy Goods is to this community. Their work is amazing! Our 1st place chili winner will be awarded a handcrafted, Mercy Goods chopping block along with their trophy. Good luck to everyone!”
by Amy Sharp
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Do Good
lassic Chevy Sugar Land is thrilled to spotlight Mercy Goods, the non-profit furniture-making (and more!) business at the corner of 5th and Morton in Richmond. It all started in Austin back in 2016 when Zach Lambert and his wife April had a vision. “There are people out there who have a difficult time finding employment due to previous choices or life circumstances,” says Zach. “Our idea was to teach these people to build furniture; give them skills so they could return to living their life. But we put the idea on hold when we were called to serve and love by planting a church, and that call brought us here to Richmond.” To support the calling, Zach became selfemployed building furniture. Look no further than the cozy Blockhouse Coffee in Richmond to find some of his unique work. April took a job as an art teacher at LCISD’s Lamar Consolidated High School. In an effort to acquaint himself with the community, Zach visited Attack Poverty. “Attack Poverty actually once had a woodworking program that had fizzled because the tools kept getting stolen. Meanwhile April was seeing situations firsthand at her school. Kids that were dropping out. She had one student who was falling asleep at school because he drove a tow truck at night to support his family.” Mercy Goods is an Attack Poverty program that works with LCISD to identify students who have socioeconomic disadvantages, poor grades or
disciplinary problems. “It’s our vision brought to life,” says Zach. “Mercy Goods is a place where we can employ these kids, provide them with valuable skills, and mentor them. Our goal is to teach them that you can’t change the hand you were dealt, but you can change how you play that hand to get to where you want to be. Here we create high-quality items of excellence. Nonprofit does not have to mean hand-me-downs.” At the Mercy Goods storefront, you’ll find expertly-crafted wooden charcuterie boards, tables, desks and shelves, student-designed screenprinted Tshirts, and handmade jewelry. “We employ as many kids as we can,” says Zach. “And we invite many more to come in, learn skills, and make merchandise. Then when their item sells, they get paid.” One student recently accompanied Zach to downtown Houston to deliver the table he handcrafted to an oil company, a table that sold for several thousand dollars! Mercy Goods will have a booth set up at Classic Chevy Sugar Land’s Classic Chili Challenge and Bake Off showcasing their work. Classic Chevy owners Jeff and Tiffany Sebastian say, “What
Mercy Goods 501 Morton St. Richmond, TX 77469 www.mercygoods.co
a blessing Mercy Goods is to this community. Their work is amazing! Our 1st place chili winner will be awarded a handcrafted, Mercy Goods chopping block along with their trophy. Good luck to everyone!”
Classic Chevy Sugar Land 9th Annual Chili Challenge and Bake Off Saturday, October 19th, 3-8pm @Classic Chevy Sugar Land
Free entry! Join us for an afternoon of great chili, desserts, family, friends and fun!
281-491-9000 www.classicchevysugarland.com
SHOP FORT BEND
13115 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478
Next Stop...
TwiceasNice The Grand
Expansion by Amy Sharp
F
or 13 years, St. Michael’s has provided our community with high quality emergency care. Today, that same quality of care has expanded to inpatient hospital services. St. Michael’s Elite Hospital—located right next door to the original St. Michael’s location—is a concierge concept hospital. What does that mean for you? CEO Don Vickers says, “Individual attention, private rooms, gourmet food from local restaurants (if allowed in your diet) and no surprise billing. We have eight emergency room beds, two triage rooms, and seven inpatient beds. We talked to physicians, asked them how they want a hospital set up, then remodeled this building. And when you register for inpatient hospital care or short term rehabilitation, we divulge the price. There are no hidden charges.” Even better? The things that made St. Michael’s great haven’t changed at all! They are still a 24-hour emergency room that guarantees wait times of 15 minutes or less in a comfortable and
cozy environment. There’s still on-site radiology and lab departments allowing tests and x-rays to be done in a timely manner. “Actually,” says Don, “we have twice as much lab equipment since this building was already equipped!” St. Michael’s co-founder, Dr. Shannon Orsak, says, “We are excited about this grand expansion and look forward to working with the many high-quality physicians here in Fort Bend and the surrounding area. Our commitment to our clients remains the same: The service and health care here at St. Michael’s Elite Hospital will be the highest of quality, the best of care, and the highest of compassion. When you need emergency care or inpatient care, don’t hesitate. We are here for you.” “Dr. Orsak and his brother Brian have been doing it right all these years,” says Don. “They take care of everyone that walks through these doors like family. We will continue to grow St. Michael’s Elite Hospital in this same fashion. We will take care of you.”
St. Michael’s bills all insurances, including Medicare. 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.”
St. Michael’s Elite Hospital 16000 SW Freeway (at Hwy 6), Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-980-HELP (4357)
www.24hrer.com
UNCOMPROMISING EYE CARE. EXCLUSIVE EYEWEAR. MEMORIAL EYE C E N T E R
SAME GREAT DOCTORS. SAME FRIENDLY STAFF.
Drs. Jocelyn S. Horiszny, Tom Arnold, Kristyn Reed, and Joseph A. Janes
New NAME!
T
wenty-seven years ago, optometrist Dr. Tom Arnold opened Today’s Vision Sugar Land in the brand-new (at the time!) shopping center at US59 and Williams Trace. Built on a reputation of amazing staff and uncompromising quality of care, this practice recently took on a new name: Memorial Eye Center at Sugar Land. Dr. Arnold says, “First of all, thank you for the many years. We have grown tremendously, and our needs have changed. The healthcare environment has also become much more complex. For the benefit and betterment of our patients, we needed more resources. Memorial Eye Center is a larger entity, and has been providing the Houston metropolitan area with full-service, personalized eyecare for
by Amy Sharp
almost 30 years. And they aren’t strangers. I have a personal relationship with many of the professionals at Memorial Eye Center. Under this bigger umbrella, we can operate more cost-effectively and efficiently. We are also gaining improved insurance verification and billing, and a new sophisticated medical records program.” Long a champion of integrating the newest technology into his practice, Dr. Arnold is excited about the expanded opportunities with Memorial Eye Center. “We now have even better access to cutting-edge technology and products,” says Dr. Arnold. “Technology provides information about our patients and their eyes, and more information is good. The more we have, the more we can target
treatment...making what we do here bigger and better than ever!”” Know what’s not changing? The clinic location, the fantastic staff, and the personalized service patients all over Fort Bend have come to know and love. Medical Director Dr. Arnold is still seeing patients, as are optometrists Dr. Jocelyn S. Horiszny, Dr. Kristyn Reed and Dr. Joseph A. Janes. This team of doctors takes great pride in offering the absolute best in vision care. In the optical department, you’ll still find your favorite faces—Patrick, Sylvester, Modesta and Teresa—making sure your eyewear needs are filled accurately, easily and at a great value. From greeting you at the door to taking the time to answer all of your questions and explaining treatment options, the familiar staff that you know and trust will continue to take care of you at Memorial Eye Center at Sugar Land. Dr. Arnold says, “As always, we are your onestop-shop experience for comprehensive vision exams and designer eyeglasses, sunglasses, and contact lenses. Thank you again for trusting us with the health of your eyes over the years. We look forward to serving you again very soon!” Memorial Eye Center at Sugar Land 281-242-2020 15337 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.memorialeyecenter.com
UPCLOSE ~ October 2019 ~ 7
The Luxury of Home Improvement without Luxury Prices
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by Marie Page
ousins Mohamed Naser, Ziad Mukhaimer and Imad Mansour have owned and operated Lone Star Floors for 24 years. With an outstanding rate of return and referral business, they do the job on time and they do it right. This family-owned business takes great pride in the extensive knowledge and experience they’ve acquired over the years. Whether you choose ceramic, carpet, or hardwood floors, want to upgrade your countertops, remodel your master bathroom, or give the kitchen a facelift, the experts at Lone Star Floors are happy to sit with you and explain everything...from which brand to use to what color will give your home a lasting and inviting effect. Mohamed says, “Warm colors— such as yellows, oranges and reds—help to create a friendly and comforting atmosphere. They tend to be richer and very inviting. Cool colors—like violets, greens and blues—have a soft, calming effect. We’ll help you choose the perfect look for every room in your home!” Every item at Lone Star Floors has been selected for its superior quality. With more than 30 vendors, they offer the highest quality items upheld by manufacturer guarantees paired with exceptional customer service offerings. Imad says, “Our reputation stands on what we offer our clients; we take that very seriously.” Not only are Mohamed, Ziad and Imad available to address questions, they will visit your home to ensure that the job is done right and to your liking. Lone Star Floors is so much more than floors. They are your resource for full kitchen and bathroom remodeling— including plumbing, shower glass, painting and granite. “To be perfectly honest,” says Ziad, “most of our customers are amazed at how easy and affordable remodeling your home really can be.” Ready for home improvement without the luxury prices? Stop by one of these family-friendly, warm and welcoming showrooms Monday-Friday 9am-7pm or Saturday 9am-6pm.
Lone Star Floors • 3 Locations • www.lonestarfloors.com Sugar Land: 281-564-1345 10009 Highway 6 South Sugar Land, TX
Katy: 281-398-2319 873 South Mason Rd. #300 Katy, TX
Woodlands: 832-813-0813 24627 I-45 North Suite # A The Woodlands/Spring, TX
G E T
M O R E
FLOORS
Early detection starts with your
ANNUAL MAMMOGRAM
Advanced Breast Care Close to Home
The Woodlands
At Houston Methodist Breast Care Centers, our specialists review your mammogram history and track results over time — detecting changes earlier. That’s why scheduling your mammogram starting at age 40 — or earlier, if you have a family history — is so important. Our Breast Care Centers offer: •
The latest diagnostic technology: 3D mammograms and breast MRIs
•
Board-certified breast imaging radiologists
•
Acceptance of most major insurance plans
Willowbrook
Katy
Kirby
Baytown
Texas Medical Center
Sugar Land
F R O M
LONE STAR
Clear Lake
Schedule your 3D screening mammogram online at houstonmethodist.org/breastcare-sl or call 281.436.9513.
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.
by Amy Sharp
connecting PEOPLE WITH GOD, EACH OTHER & THE WORLD
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ugar Land Baptist Church just wrapped a very busy summer of missions. Alena Vaughn, Associate Pastor of Missions, says, “More than 50 people traveled with us this summer to Alaska, Bulgaria, Mexico and Greece. Missions are a wonderful opportunity to expand faith and fellowship with others by taking the gospel and your relationship with the Lord out into our community and the world. Globally and locally, our church has worked with some of our partners for more than 25 years. As we close 2019 and kick off 2020, we are celebrating by expanding with even more opportunities and an exciting 2020 travel schedule!” This school year, every Adult Bible Fellowship (ABF) small group at Sugar Land Baptist Church has been challenged to select a local mission (or two!) to participate in. “My favorite part,” says Alena, “is that these classes and groups are looking at what drives them: What are they passionate about? What are their gifts and talents? The ministry choices manifest very differently when the groups answer these questions. We have one group that loves to grill. That’s really cool, we can find people to cook for. With this approach, we see such growth; a passion for missions. We can really see what it is like to be part of the universal church.” Where is God calling you? Sugar Land Baptist Church Missions are open to everyone. Nonchurch members are welcome to participate both locally and globally in these exciting ministries! To learn more, contact Alena Vaughn at avaughn@ sugarlandbaptist.org.
Sugar Land Baptist Missions Local Bethel Ministry East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry Feed My Starving Children Food from the Heart (SLBC) Fort Bend Family Promise Gracewood Habitat for Humanity Helping Hands Hope for Three Human Trafficking Lifeway Loaves & Fishes Lunches of Love Medical Bridges Project Smile Second Mile Ministries Senior Care Ministry (SLBC) Star of Hope Upward Basketball and Cheerleading National and Global Bulgaria - Bulgarian Child, Inc. and Ridgway Ministries Colorado - Compassion International Greece - numerous ministries Kenya - partnership with Kahawa Sukari Baptist Church Living Water (SLBC) Mexico - Gloria al Padre Youth Mission Trips
Alena Vaughn, Associate Pastor of Missions
Sugar Land Baptist Church 281-980-4431 | 16755 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77479 | www.sugarlandbaptist.org Sunday Morning Worship Service is at 9:45am. This service can also be watched live at live.slb.church.
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F CUS
Campbell’s “Cosmetic” Compounding Pharmacy by Amy Sharp
W
hen Peter Chang, MD, DMD of Timeless Plastic Surgery started practicing in Sugar Land more than 10 years ago, he went back and forth between different pharmacies. “I was trying to find a fit for my patients’ post surgical needs,” says Dr. Chang. “Then about five years ago, I discovered Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy. I now use Campbell’s for all of my cosmetic drug purposes.” So what does Campbell’s do for Dr. Chang? “They make scar creams for me, skin lightening creams, topical anesthetics, and compounded medications that decrease swelling and bruising. Scars are inevitable post surgery, but these compounded scar creams keep surgical scars to a minimum...they make me look like an even better doctor! I often refer to Campbell’s as Campbell’s ‘Cosmetic’ Compounding Pharmacy!” Know what pairs well with great offerings? Great service! “The Campbell’s staff always caters to my patients,” continues Dr. Chang. “Medications are always ready as soon as possible. I have many patients from out of town. It’s so convenient when I can call in prescriptions and they are filled quickly. Campbell’s is very responsive to whatever a patient needs, and they work with you. Whenever possible they take care of billing insurance...and in cases where insurance cannot be billed, they offer a reduced cash payment option.” Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy was founded in 2003 by Dr. “If our staff can’t make it… Lance Campbell, Pharm.D., R.Ph. While customized medications— then you probably don’t need it!” medications mixed together in the exact strength, dosage, and form required by the patient—are this pharmacy’s specialty, they do stock Sugar Land • 281-980-2555 all commercially-available medications. No matter your needs, you’ll 4760 Sweetwater Blvd. Suite 103 enjoy personalized service at this friendly neighborhood pharmacy. Dr. Chang says, “I recommend Campbell’s all the time!” Houston • 713-668-4833 For more information on Dr. Chang and Timeless Plastic Surgery, 6603 Kirby Dr., Houston, TX 77005 www.campbellscompounding.com visit www.timelessplasticsurgery.com.
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When Others
Couldn’t Help,
by Amy Sharp Papa and Lala: Gayle and Linda Page; Dad: Jonathon Sledge; Kids: Maya, Marley and Jackson Sledge
E
ight-year-old Jackson Sledge was born prematurely. “He’s had different things crop up, and seen several specialists in his short lifetime,” says Jackson’s grandmother, Linda Page. When Jackson was five, Linda took him and his sisters to the dentist their dad had seen seen as a kid. Jackson had a mouthful of cavities. “Turns out, it’s part of his syndrome,” says Linda. “He gets cavities for no reason. That dentist had no idea what to do. I was told the cavities could not be filled in the office, and I needed to find a specialist.” That sent Linda on a wild goose chase. “It was the same pattern over and over. I would make an appointment, explain things, send his record...and then suddenly they ‘didn’t take his insurance’ or ‘weren’t equipped to handle the case.’ I started working through my contacts, and we ended up at a dental clinic in the Medical Center with the professors and experts. They tossed around ideas of what to do. Jackson’s case was discussed in faculty meetings. They would decide something, and then insurance would refuse it. Finally, when insurance again canceled our procedure last December, we were done.” In January, Linda started over...working through the insurance network to find a dentist for Jackson. “I wanted a pediatric dentist in private practice. I called hundreds of dentists in a zip code radius of about 60 miles.” Then Linda happened upon Shilpa Chandiwal, DDS of Healthy Teeth Pediatric Dentistry. “Dr. Shilpa was exactly who we were looking for. We confirmed that she took our insurance and made an appointment. She examined Jackson and confirmed that the work needed to be done in a hospital under general anesthesia. She scheduled us to the OR room she has reserved at a local hospital once a month. Just like that, Jackson would finally be taken care of. I was still worried about the insurance, but both Dr. Shilpa and her insurance lady assured me all would be fine.” Jackson’s father, Jonathon, accompanied Jackson to the hospital for the procedure. Jonathon says, “Dr. Shilpa really took care of Jackson. He has had issues with anesthesia in the past, and she was very careful to make sure all was done properly. All in all, it went great!” Last week, Jackson saw Dr. Shilpa and Linda reports he has no cavities. “His adult teeth are coming in just right, and it was just a normal visit for a kid his age. He’s now a regular dental patient! And after all he’s been through, he is not afraid of the dentist. That’s credit to Dr. Shilpa. She is really set up to take care of children, all children. I recommend her all the time!”
Dr. Shilpa
Could
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ONE DENTIST
+
TWO LOCATIONS
=
SAME CARE
Dr. Shilpa Chandiwal, DDS 4907 Sandhill Dr., Suite E Sugar Land, TX 77479 713-955-2100 5300 Ranch Point Drive, Suite #B Katy, TX 77494 713-234-1002 www.healthyteethpediatricdentistry.com UPCLOSE ~ October 2019 ~ 11
Scare The Germs Away!
by Olivia Cane piders, heights, public speaking and clean on your house like a mom. “Our teams zombies may rightly scare you, but do of eagle-eyed moms get all the sticky dust off you know what’s really scary? The dust your ceiling fans,” continues Casandra. “We bunnies that might be lurking under your remove hard water stains from your shower nightstand, waiting for your unsuspecting feet! door. We move furniture to vacuum up dirt Like a lot of people who have too much to and dust. We scour, polish, wipe, and orgado and not enough time to do it, you prob- nize not just the surfacey stuff, but the dirt ably don’t have the hours or the energy to you don’t always see, the kind that lives in attack those dust bunnies. Fortunately, there the cracks and crevices of your house. When is an army of kind, wonderful, efficient super- you come home from a hard day at work and open your front door, we want to know there cleaners who do! At Mahoney’s House Cleaning Services, will be a happy smile on your face. A clean a house isn’t truly clean until it’s been house means you can finally relax. Even if “Mahoneyed.” So, what does that mean exact- friends or family drop by unexpectedly, you’re ly? “My mother, Imelda Mahoney, started with covered! That’s why it’s our genuine pleasure nothing but her genuine desire to do right by to leave your house in better-than-showroom others,” says her daughter Casandra. “That’s condition every time we visit you. We never how she built Mahoney’s House Cleaning turn down a cleaning project. And the things Services. By teaming up with other moms in that most companies charge you extra for are our neighborhood, she was able to put her kids part of our fully-bonded and insured service, through college, including me. She is truly one including blinds, baseboards and ceiling fans. of the hardest working people I know.” We love to clean, we love to help, and we love Let’s face it—no one knows how to do a deep to be of service.”
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Call Mahoney’s House Cleaning Services today. Scare away those dust bunnies for good!
Mahoney’s House Cleaning Services • 281-777-1526 mahoneyshousecleaning@yahoo.com • www.mahoneyshousecleaningservices.com
Creating environments that celebrate life. D E V201 8 & 2019 ELO YEA PE R OF T HE
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Amazing communities. So many ways to live. At Johnson Development, we make more than just places to live; we create amazing communities for what you enjoy most. Whether you’re seasoning dinner with herbs from our Harvest Green community garden, walking the lakeside trails in Viridian or splashing at our huge waterparks in Sienna, you’re sure to find that life is special in a Johnson Development community. Houston • Austin • DFW • Atlanta
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KELLERWILLIAMS REALTY SOUTHWEST ®
The Champions For Charity mission: KW Southwest Agents embracing the Keller Williams philosophy by serving their clients and charitable organizations “giving where we live.” KWSW is home to more than 500 agents who embrace this philosophy of giving back. UpClose magazine and the KWSW Facebook page will be featuring a different charity each month presented by one of KW Southwest’s Champions for Charity!
A Keller Williams Experience
Mindi and Lance Horton’s Story
B
by Amy Sharp
ack in 2006, when Lance and Mindi Horton our family. When selling a home, he gives ideas were planning their wedding, they started but isn’t real bossy or pushy. He understands we looking for their first home. Mindi says, also have to live in the house while selling, and we “My parents lived in Greatwood at the time, so have three kids! We do recommend Todd. When we started looking there. We had no real estate my parents were thinking of moving, his name agent, just saw a house we thought we might was the first to come to mind...let’s call Todd and like and we called the selling agent. KW (Keller ask him what to do!” Williams) Southwest agent Todd Baker came out to show us the home. Todd was kind, helpful and knowledgeable in all things real estate. We decided to continue with him, looking at different properties. When we asked questions, he was Brent Weaver passed away in 2011 at the very honest in his opinions about location age of 26 after a two year battle with Ewing’s and what he felt was best for us. He always Sarcoma, a rare type of bone cancer. made sure we were looking in our price Brent was a lifelong resident of Sugar range, and was always available when Land and a graduate of Clements we needed to talk. We found a home, High School. bought it, and Todd was a guest at The Brent Event (a 5K run, 10K our wedding!” run, and 1 mile fun run/walk, Since that first purchase, the kids dash and kids carnival) is Hortons have moved twice. Todd held annually in October at Sugar helped them sell that home and buy Land Memorial Park in memory of another, and then sell and buy again. Brent. KW Southwest agent Todd KW Agent Mindi says, “We really trust what Baker says, “Keller Williams Southwest Todd says, and the direction he leads Todd Baker
A Champion for Charity
has proudly participated as a major sponsor of The Brent Event for the past four years. The Brent Event Foundation provides financial assistance to local cancer patients and their families throughout the year. Please consider supporting The Brent Event Foundation by donating, sponsoring or participating in the 2019 Brent Event.”
The Brent Event
10K | 5K | 1 Mile Fun Run | Kids Dash Saturday, October 19 8am to 11:00am (on-site registration available at 6:30am) Sugar Land Memorial Park To register, donate or learn more, visit www.brentevent.org. Early bird registration pricing ends October 4th!
281-265-0000 • 1650 Highway 6, Ste 350 • Sugar Land, TX 77478
Your local destination for your real estate needs. KWSW.com provides comprehensive school, master planned communities, and neighborhood information on homes for sale in our hometown.
UPCLOSE ~ October 2019 ~ 13
?
ASK MARGIE The Lawyer Who Cares
THIS MONTH’S TOPIC:
Scary Stories from Fort Bend County by Amy Sharp
g n i th y r e v e Where t is a you wan away. w o r th s e ston ’
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ary and John were on their way home from a family vacation in Colorado when they had a tragic car accident. Both were killed, their 10-year-old twins were severely injured, and their daughter suffered minor injuries. John and Mary did not have wills, and had not designated guardians for their children. Mary’s sister Jean and her husband Tom were now tasked with filing for legal custody of the children. They were able to take the daughter into their home, but the twins spent months in the hospital in Colorado. Jean and Tom spent thousands of dollars in legal fees to get custody of the children and a court order allowing them to move the twins to a hospital in Houston. In the meantime, John’s parents intervened and fought to get legal custody for themselves...escalating the situation. Had Mary and John made wills and designated guardians for their children, the pain, expense, delay, and disruption to the entire family could have been minimized. Carl and Doris were married for 35 years and have three adult children. After they divorced, Carl married Kristi. Carl then wrote and published a novel, earning him hundreds of thousands of dollars in royalties which Carl would continue to receive for his lifetime. After suffering a severe stroke, Carl was being kept alive only by artificial life support. He did not have a medical power of attorney or advance directive. His children asked the doctors to remove the artificial life support and allow their father to die with “dignity.” Carl’s wife objected. The doctors could not remove the artificial life support without legal consent, so Carl’s children filed a lawsuit to get guardianship of their father. Kristi filed a countersuit for guardianship. After nearly two years of litigation, the court granted the children guardianship. They were able to watch their father pass peacefully. Now deprived of the annual royalty checks, Kristi went to work as a waitress. Had Carl done proper estate planning, including medical power of attorney and advance directive documents, this story could have ended much differently for all. These are actual situations—with names changed—that could have been avoided with proper estate planning. Don’t let these scary stories happen to your family. Contact a family law attorney today!
Margaret McCullough Connolly, PLLC
Luxurious & Convenient Living in New Homes from the $300s -Millions
In Riverstone, fun is always right around the corner. That’s because it’s ideally situated right in the heart of sensational shopping and dining, and especially close to spacious parks, entertainment venues, employment centers and more. Whatever to whenever, you’re always only moments away in Riverstone. Riverstone.com | New Homes from the $300s-Millions Take 59 to Sugar Land, exit University
281-433-9488 • 346-309-4236 4610 Sweetwater Blvd. Suite 200, Sugar Land, TX 77479 mmconnollylaw@gmail.com • www.mmconnollylaw.com 14 ~ UPCLOSE ~ October 2019
RIVER-0007 Sept HMJ Ad 5x12.5in_MECH.indd 1
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Theragood Deeds “Impacting the world, one good deed at a time.”
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by Amy Sharp
ast year, Houston Police Officer Sheldon Theragood was awarded the Star of Courage Award, presented by the Houston Texans. Officer Theragood is the founder of Theragood Deeds—a youth mentorship and outreach program. “For four years, I worked in juvenile detention,” says Officer Theragood. “Those kids changed me. I worked with them for eight hours a day, listening to their stories, wondering why some kept coming back. In my second year with HPD, I saw my first juvenile murder. That’s when I knew I had to start something, I had finally found my purpose. I am here on this earth to inspire and impact our youth. At Theragood Deeds, we teach kids how to love. How to team up and make a difference...one good deed, one act of kindness at a time. We do events like bingo at nursing homes, and we give back to the less fortunate. We also do events for kids. We give, give, give. Every month.”
As part of his Star of Courage award, Heat enjoys an unprecedented reputaOfficer Theragood was awarded a free tion for honesty and outstanding cusTrane HVAC system, to be installed tomer service. by Houston Texans sponsor, Jackson “I was at my grandmother’s home the Air and Heat. It comes as no surprise day Brian and his crew installed the new that Officer Theragood chose to give Trane system,” says Officer Theragood. that system to his 95-year-old grand- “These guys are incredible, just amazmother, Belzora Easley. “God works in ing. They made my grandmother feel his time,” says Officer Theragood. “And so special. They did a beautiful thing, my grandmother’s A/C was about to and I have the highest respect for that. expire. My grandmother is my heart- Anything these guys need in the future, beat. My motivation and inspiration. She I am here for them!” cares about everyone, and treats all with Jackson Air and Heat, Inc. love. I love to see her smile. Seeing her Sugar Land’s Oldest happy means the world to me and my Independent Trane Dealer family. There was no doubt I was giving License #TACLB29585 the A/C to her, she deserves it.” 281-240-1037 Locally-owned and operated, Jackson Air and Heat is the oldest independent Trane dealer in Sugar Land. Owner Brian Jackson’s late father opened its doors nearly 40 years ago. Today, Jackson Air and Heat is multi-generational. Both of Brian’s sons and his grandson are PROUD SPONSOR OF THE HOUSTON TEXANS part of the team. Jackson Air and
www.LicenseToChill.us
A Marriage Made in Heaven by Amy Sharp
S
everal years ago, Marvin Hamilton read about Thomas Lomonte, D.D.S. in his fishing magazine. “Dr. Lomonte is a Redfish Cup winner,” says Marvin. “So I knew he might be all right!” Back when Marvin learned of Dr. Lomonte, he was at a point where he really didn’t like dentists. “I felt like I was always leaving bleeding and hurting,” says Marvin. “My initial draw to Dr. Lomonte was the fishing, but I soon learned he was both a nice guy and very competent. Since I started seeing him four or five years ago, I’ve had a root canal, a tooth pulled, and dental implants done. All were almost painless. When Dr. Lomonte was doing my root canal, I wasn’t feeling it. I finally asked how much longer, and he told me to get up out of the chair. He was done!” The fact that Marvin finds Dr. Lomonte’s office mostly pain free is no coincidence. Dr. Lomonte built his practice nearly forty years ago on these simple philosophies: education, comfort, a good experience, and a smile. Dr. Lomonte says, “My passion is keeping up with the latest in dentistry, and making sure you are educated on all of your options. We offer pain free dental solutions whenever possible for your situation...because doesn’t everyone want a dentist that is both quick and painless? And we take great pride in making sure we get to know you. We want you to walk out of here as our friend. A happy friend that’s smiling ear to ear.” Come in “I recommend Dr. Lomonte to everyone who will Thomas M. Lomonte, D.D.S. listen,” says Marvin. “My dad sees him too, and so does as a patient “Come in as a patient, leave as a friend.” my 24-year-old son. Dr. Lomonte is nice, he’s competent, 12122 Murphy Rd., Stafford, TX 77477 and leave and he can fish...that’s a marriage made in heaven right there!” 281-530-1440
as a friend!
www.drthomaslomonte.com
Corelli’s Italian Cafe Authentically
Italian. (NO PASSPORT REQUIRED)
SINCE 1997
LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR MODERATE-TO-SEVERE ATOPIC DERMATITIS AND A POTENTIAL TREATMENT OPTION Attend a FREE educational event!
When:
Wednesday, November 6, 2019
Start Time: 6:30 PM Where: Veritas Steak & Seafood 1550 Lake Pointe Parkway Sugar Land, TX 77478
Featuring:
Colleen Vaccaro, PA & an Atopic Dermatitis Ambassador
Call 1-844-387-4936, option 5 to register! Family and friends are welcome!
3229 HWY 6 @Williams Trace
281-491-8900 www.corellis.com 16 ~ UPCLOSE ~ October 2019
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Complimentary parking and light fare provided.
© 2019 Sanofi and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. All Rights Reserved. US-DAD-14762(2) Last Update: 07/2019
Fantastic Pricing. On Time.
Beautiful.
T
by Amy Sharp
For the remainder of the time, we his Perry home was built in the mid 1980s. moved to the back of the home. Beyond some flooring and paint, it had We had no issues. Teri is very not been remodeled at all. So when the easy to work with. She does owners were ready to take the kitchen not beat around the bush. and both bathrooms down to the studs, Your She’s very knowledgeable and they called Teri Gilberg (better known as the knows construction. When I Re-Modelista). had to be out of town for “We actually got two quotes, and we were not Specialist work, it was easy for my wife pleased with the other. The difference with Teri to talk to her. If we texted or was she got right back with us. She is very prompt. called, she always responded We discussed our thoughts, and she helped us pull it promptly. She also included together. Plus, her pricing is fantastic.” her subcontractors on texts so The work was substantial. The kitchen and both they could respond and be in the loop. bathrooms were stripped to the studs, including new cabinetry and lighting in all three rooms. In the master bath, the The guys she brought in were phenomenal. jacuzzi tub and shower were replaced with a huge walk-in shower The granite guy was ridiculously good, the with a big showerhead, two showerwands, and a pony wall. The plumber was great, and her foreman Tony hall bath got a new tub, new showerwand, new fixtures and was can do anything! Teri also did walkthroughs. If tiled to the ceiling. The project also included replacing the tiled something didn’t look right, it was fixed right countertop in the outdoor kitchen with granite. Teri’s estimate away. Teri estimated the project would take a month, and they got it done.” covered everything. “Our finished home is beautiful! We “We loved that Teri provided allowances for us to purchase the materials ourselves. She then backed that allowance out of the look around, and can hardly remember price. This allowed us to gain valuable airline miles on our credit what it looked like before. We very highly card to plan a trip! Teri also gave us great recommendations recommend Teri!” on where to buy our materials, including Natural Stone Gallery, Re-Modelista: ProSource, Floor and Decor, and J&K Cabinetry. When we asked to use our own painter and electrician, she was more than happy Your Home Renovation Specialist to work with us.” Specializes in Kitchen and Bath Remodels For the first week of construction, the homeowners were out of town. “She Gets the Job Done!” 832-535-2501 • cell: 832-731-3191 “We had a lockbox so Teri and her crew could come and go. She always www.theremodelista.com texted or called to let us know when someone would be in the house.
Bath &Kitchen
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UPCLOSE ~ October 2019 ~ 17
Shoulder Surgery Avoided, He’s Back on Water Skis!
S
by Amy Sharp
eventy-seven-year-old Gordon Corn has been competitively slalom water skiing most of his life. Last December, Gordon suffered tears in both rotator cuffs while chopping down a tree. Gordon says, “I couldn’t even lift my arms. Cortisone shots delayed the pain, but by January I knew I had a massive problem. I was offered reverse shoulder replacement or an arthroscopic procedure. I declined both.” Instead, Gordon attended a lecture about interventional orthopedics presented by Dr. Ugochi Azuike of Texas Interventional Orthopedics and Regenerative Medicine. What Dr. Azuike does is use your own body— platelets and stem cells—to heal and repair musculoskeletal and spinal issues. Gordon says, “After the lecture, I scheduled a consultation with Dr. Azuike. She used ultrasound to confirm the rotator cuff tears, and also FREE Seminar discovered a big tear in my left bicep. Using Your Own We discussed at length my potential Stem Cells to Help stem cell procedure success rate, cost, and downtime. I also knew that if it Heal Your Body didn’t work, I could go back to the October 22nd surgical option.” 6:30pm - 8:00pm Gordon’s regenerative procedure Texas Interventional Orthopedics (which involves only needles, no cutting!) took place the first week in March. He then underwent and Regenerative Medicine six to eight weeks of physical therapy, and continues to work with a personal trainer on a Learn more about Texas regular basis. He now has full range of motion Interventional’s unique stem cell in his arms and can do pull ups. His strength and blood platelet procedures. is currently about 80% of what it once was. “I Everyone welcome! think that is only because I am 77!” says Gordon.
By August, Gordon was back to competitive slalom water skiing... which involves holding a tow rope behind a boat going 40 miles an hour and maneuvering yourself around buoys. “I’ve been advised to be careful, but I love being back. The stem cell procedure has done wonders for me!” “I absolutely recommend Dr. Azuike. She is a tremendous doctor: focused and compassionate.” Texas Interventional Orthopedics and Regenerative Medicine 281-601-1321 7110 Hwy 6, Ste. B, Missouri City, Texas 77459 www.texasinterventional.com
In a future socialist America, Houstonians face the vicissitudes of life as a rising political/ religious movement predicts the imminent return of a vanished scientist as a medical messiah.
“A clever extrapolation of today’s sociopolitical pathologies in the next century.” — Kirkus Reviews
BUY IT TODAY at & Blue Willow Bookstop (Houston, TX) Don Johnston has lived in the Houston area since 1962, and chose the locale as the setting for the Dar Lumbre Chronicles. Scenes occur in the Texas Medical Center, Houston Zoo, Cockrell Butterfly Center, Brazos Bend State Park, and other locations in and around Houston.
18 ~ UPCLOSE ~ October 2019
www.upclosemagazine.com
ISBN 10: 0692086161 ISBN 13: 978-0692086162 Pages: 248 Publisher: Kindle Direct Publishing
Plumbing
Nightmares
that will make You Cringe B
by Olivia Cane
y the time fall weather arrives in Fort Bend, most of us have been dreaming about fluffy sweaters, pumpkin spice lattes, and the Halloween candy we plan on pilfering out of our kids’ bags when they’re not looking. What we’re not thinking about is the state of our pipes. Unfortunately, that may be the thing that comes back to haunt you! If your house was built before 1980, there’s a good chance you have galvanized pipes. What are galvanized pipes? “They’re slow leaks waiting to happen,” explains Master Plumber Alan Burkhalter of Alan’s Plumbing. “And here in our area, most galvanized pipes have reached the end of their life expectancy. You can tell there’s a problem when your water pressure starts dropping. That’s because the corrosion inside the pipe throttles down the flow of water. What’s really awful is when you come back from vacation and your house is flooded, sheetrock is peeling off the walls, and your ceiling’s falling down. By then, the problem has already gone beyond the easy-fix-it stage, and you’re looking at repipe and repairs.” So, what can you do to keep disaster from happening? “You can always keep making those small repairs, but you’re delaying the inevitable,” says Alan. “The best thing is to just plan on having your house repiped now, which will save you thousands of dollars later on. We use PEX pipe. PEX is a modern-day miracle. It’s made from high-density polyethylene, which creates the perfect, rust-free, maximum-performance pipe we need to handle our high water loads. Even better, PEX comes with a twenty-five-year manufacturer’s warranty on labor, damage and material. For one-story houses, we recommend a horizontal repipe of the pipes in the attic. For two-story houses, we recommend a full repipe.” And to be sure you’re not setting yourself up for a different sort of nightmare, always hire licensed plumbers to do a repipe (or any kind of plumbing work!). Alan says, “There’s a
lot of guys out there in ‘costume and mask’ posing as plumbers, but they are not licensed. As Master Plumbers, my brother Chris, my son Luke, and I have studied and trained for years to achieve this level of expertise. My son Beau is journeyman-licensed and studying hard for his master plumber license, and Jake is an apprentice close to his journeyman license. It isn’t just a textbook we have to learn. It’s hands-on, on-the-job training, day in and day out. In addition to me, my brother Chris and the boys, Jeff Johnson is journeyman-licensed and has been with us for a long time, as have apprentices Jaime, Trevor and Christian. We’re a good, honest, hardworking, licensed plumbing family!” “If you have any questions about your pipes, give us a call,” says Alan. “We are happy to come out, and the consultation is free!”
Alan’s Plumbing
281-261-1064 License M-18995
WWW.ALANS.PLUMBING
www.upclosemagazine.com
UPCLOSE ~ October 2019 ~ 19
HAPPENING AT SCOTTY’S SALOON
Oct 25th
ESCAPE (JOURNEY TRIBUTE BAND) Oct 5th
WADE STROTHERS BAND
Oct 11th
NIGHTBIRD
(STEVIE NICKS FLEETWOOD MAC TRIBUTE BAND)
Oct 19th TEAUGE BROTHERS BAND Oct 26th ALL 80’S COSTUME PARTY FEATURING DVS MYNDZ BAND SUNDAY FUNDAYS BANDS Oct 6th PIANO PUNCH Oct 13th STEEL COUNTRY Oct 20th JOHNNY RINGO BAND Oct 27th VINYL BREW BAND (CLASSIC ROCK)
NEW Wine and Whiskey Wednesday 4pm-2am half off ALL Wine and Whiskey
Joel Bartsch Headlines Cullinan Park Conservancy Picnic October 18
J
oel Bartsch, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Houston Joel Bartsch, President and Chief Museum of Natural Science, will dig Executive Officer of the Houston into his luminous career and the imporMuseum of Natural Science tance of conservation projects during a fundraiser benefiting Cullinan Park 11:30 while raising money for a worthy cause.” Also during Picnic for the Park, winners of a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18. the annual Cullinan Park Conservancy Photo Bartsch will delve into his experiences as a Contest will be announced and former Sugar world-traveling rock hound during the 3rd annual Cullinan Park Conservancy “Picnic for the Land Mayor James Thompson will be prePark” event that will be held in the auditorium sented the Nina Cullinan Award for his work of River Pointe Church, 21000 Southwest Fwy, in support of the park. Tickets are $50-$75 and can be purchased Richmond, TX 77469. Memorial Hermann online at www.cullinanparkconservancy.org/ Sugar Land Hospital is the presenting sponsor. A long-time Houstonian, Bartsch was appoint- Picnic. Sponsorships starting at $1,000 also ed President and Chief Executive Officer of the are available. Proceeds will go toward improvements museum in 2004 and has since seen membership for the 754-acre Joseph S. and Lucie H. and annual attendance double. He is also Cullinan Park in Sugar Land. Late last curator of the Cullen Hall of Gems and year, the conservancy was able to break Minerals. His travels have led him around ground on Phase 1 improvements, includthe world as he has pursued his passions of ing a permanent restroom, a new trail, gems and collecting. two new trailheads, a boardwalk, lake “Joel is an engaging personality overlook, interpretive signage, landand will regale the audience with scape improvements, understory stories of how antiquities and clearing and additional benches. natural wonders are being dealt with these days, as well as tell us about the international gem collecting business,” said Mike Dobert, President of the Cullinan Park Conservancy. “It Former Sugar promises to be a fun afternoon, all Land Mayor James Thompson
Thursdays Chicken Fried Ribeye Dinner Thursdays and Fridays 3pm-7pm Happy Hour!
5 OFF
$
any purchase of $20 or more
Scotty’s Saloon at the OTP
(Located at the Old Trading Post in Booth—just minutes from Greatwood!) 713-560-1804 114 Agnes Rd, Richmond, Texas
20 ~ UPCLOSE ~ October 2019
cullinanparkconservancy.org
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Making a House a Home
by Amy Sharp
W
hen this local family was ready to put in a pool, they needed a custom job. “We have a 15 foot easement in our backyard. We wanted a creative pool layout to maximize that space. We contacted several custom pool builders, including Bratton Pools & Outdoor Living. We narrowed our contractor choices down to two, and then chose Bratton Pools. We just felt their quote was more honest...that everything we wanted (pool, spa, plus landscaping, sprinklers and french drains) was included in the contract. We did not want surprise charges later.” Mike Bratton, co-owner of Bratton Pools & Outdoor Living, helped this couple design their pool using 3D software. Mike says, “How a pool can fit into your space—especially when there’s an easement involved—can sometimes be difficult to visualize. The use of 3D software allows me to bring ideas to life and show you. Then we invite you to our Design Center, where we can help you select everything: coping, tile, decking, plaster, lighting...the possibilities are endless! We play with what you like in our 3D rendering of your backyard and pool. Together we make changes and tweaks until we’ve created the pool of your dreams.” The estimate for this family’s pool was four to six weeks. “We wanted to have a 4th of July party at our new pool, and this estimate would make that deadline. Construction went well. Brent Appelt (co-owner)
was here nearly every day. When we had questions, both Brent and Mike were very attentive and responsive to our phone calls, making sure everything stayed on track. Our pool came in at the budget we were given, and our yard was back to normal on time. Everything was ready by the 4th of July!” In addition to custom pools, locally-owned Bratton Pools & Outdoor Living does full service backyard design and construction. Everything to do with the outdoors is in the scope of what they do: pools, covered patios, outdoor kitchens, pergolas, fire pits, etc. Have a dated pool? Consider a pool makeover! Mike says, “We renovate pools—including decking, plaster, edging and equipment—bringing them up to date. After we’re done, most people think it looks like a brand new installation.” Whatever you choose for your backyard, when you work with Bratton Pools & Outdoor Living, you’re sure to be happy. These new pool owners say, “We love our new pool! We’ve lived here since 2012, and now this house feels like a home!” Bratton Pools & Outdoor Living 281-988-7700 Design Center 403 S 5th Street #B, Richmond, TX 77469 www.brattonpools.com
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UPCLOSE ~ October 2019 ~ 21
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by Sara Adams
ean Rainoshek noticed that when she and her husband Dennis visited different gatherings for Alzheimer’s support groups, he became animated and enjoyed the interaction while they were there, but as soon as he got home, he would become withdrawn and not do anything. Concerned for his daily quality of life, Jean started looking for an option that would work for both of them. After an extensive search and approval from her son, Jean chose The Auberge at Sugar Land. She and her son liked the grounds, the pets and the fact that they had activities going all the time. Jean says, “When I visit Dennis, I can see that he is doing very well. He looks better and feels better. The staff are very caring people.” Anne Hanley was referred to The Auberge at Sugar Land when she needed a place for her husband Joe to go while she was at work. She liked the homelike setting and
the wide variety of activities offered throughout the day. Anne could see that Joe felt safe and cared for there. He made friends, played dominoes; the residents and staff embraced him like family. Then one day, when it was time for Joe to go home, he didn’t want to leave. After consulting with her sons, Anne made arrangements for Joe to live at The Auberge. She says, “The Auberge has been a blessing…God has put good people in place for me.” Today, Dennis and Joe are roommates. They participate in numerous activities and have been known to go on an outing or two. Both Jean and Anne have found a community where their husbands can thrive in their new normal; a place where the staff is trained to meet the residents as they are today, celebrate their successes, and support them as their normal life continues to change and evolve.
Formerly known as Silverado Memory Care, The Auberge at Sugar Land provides a safe and peaceful haven that blends compassion, innovation and clinical excellence in an unmatched living environment for those with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. The Auberge at Sugar Land 281-277-1221 1221 Seventh St. Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.aubergesugarland.com *The Auberge at Sugar Land was voted Best Memory Care in Fort Bend County 3 years in a row.
come experience STAFFORD’S BEST
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www.ElTiempoCantina.com | 346-350-5016 12710 SOUTHWEST FWY STAFFORD, TEXAS 77477
22 ~ UPCLOSE ~ October 2019
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HEALTH MATTERS WITH DR. STEVE HARRIS, DOCTOR OF CHIROPRACTIC WHERE PAIN RELIEF COMES NATURALLY
M
photo by Krytondra Mamou
THE NEW DOC ON THE BLOCK by Sara Adams
eet the newest member at Sugar Land Health Center, Dr. Zack Brazzell. Sophie, Camden and Dr. Zack Brazzell Zack Brazzell had an early interest in sports. He began playing football at six years old and by the time he graduated from the Clinical Leadership Excellence Award high school, he had earned an athletic scholarship to Lambuth University. prior to his graduation. Dr. Steve Harris opened Sugar Land While playing football in college, Zack sustained an injury to his lower back. When traditional medicine didn’t seem to help, Zack’s mom recommended he see a Health Center in 1982. In April of this chiropractor. Zack had such good results from his chiropractic treatment, he said, “By the year, he welcomed his son-in-law, Dr. Zack Brazzell, to his practice. When asked if his time I got back on the field, I could run faster and felt stronger than before my injury.” This experience inspired Zack to switch his major from Engineering to Health and Human father-in-law gave him any advice while he Performance and transfer to Middle Tennessee State was in chiropractic school, Zack said, “Dr. Harris told me that the library is the only University (MTSU). It was while he was at MTSU that Zack met and mar- place that you will find the separation of the ried the love of his life, Sophie Harris. After graduation, parts of the body. It’s so true, chiropractic is Zack decided to pursue his original passion to all about the holistic approach. We look at become a chiropractor. He and Sophie prayed the body from the feet to the head to find the together about this new direction for their lives. root causes and address them.” Zack said he chose Texas Chiropractic College (TCC) because “I wanted to bring Sophie New Patient Special back to her hometown while I went to chiropractic school.” COMPLIMENTARY During his undergraduate years, he worked Exam & Consultation multiple jobs, volunteered at church and was diligent in his studies. He says, “Those years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(. .$125 . . . . .VALUE . . . . . . . .) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . gave me more maturity; it helped me get ready for If you live in pain, we are here to help. this big responsibility of taking care of lives.” In his last year at TCC, Zack was appointed Chief Intern, 281-980-1050 leading over 30 interns at the U of H Clear Lake - Does not apply to Medicare or Personal Injury. Campus. He was on the Dean’s List and awarded - X-rays at regular charge.
- Additional charges may apply.
Follow us! sugarlandhealthcenter @sugarlandhealthcenter DrSteveHarrisDC Check out our new look!
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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 UPCLOSE ~ October 2019 ~ 23
OUTSMARTING CANCER in Sugar Land
D. LV
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HOUSTON METHODIST CANCER CENTER B R
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