UpClose Sugar Land Magazine

December 2020

LOCAL FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESSES ARE THE OF OUR COMMUNITY

heart

YOUR HEALTH MATTERS

DOCTORS: “PLEASE DON’T POSTPONE” MEDICAL RESEARCH: 1 IN 8 WOMEN WILL DEVELOP BREAST CANCER NEWS TODAY

Did You Miss Your Mammogram Due to COVID-19?

B

by Amy Sharp

ack in May, Epic Health Research Network published a study showing that preventive breast and cervical cancer screenings in the United States abruptly dropped 94% at the beginning of the COVID19 national emergency. At the time, the general instruction to the public was that we were to only schedule in-person health visits in emergency situations.

Fast forward to today, and many are still wondering when and if they should get their annual mammogram. Because of this, there is a growing concern among healthcare providers that we’re going to see more advanced stages of breast cancer than usual...because women are not getting diagnosed early.

Is it safe to get your mammogram? You have to weigh the risks. For those at a higher risk for breast cancer, the chance of catching it early likely outweighs the risk of catching COVID19 while you’re at the screening. If you know you have a BRCA gene mutation, you have a family history of breast cancer, or if you’ve felt a new or enlarging lump in one of your breasts, schedule your mammogram immediately. If your risk for breast cancer is average, but your risk for COVID-related complications is high,

it may be better to delay the mammogram longer...as long as you discuss this option with your doctor. If both your breast cancer risk and your COVID-complication risk are average, it’s likely best to get the mammogram. An abundance of safety precautions are in place to make your visit as safe as possible.

2 ~ UPCLOSE ~ December 2020

www.upclosemagazine.com

Who Needs a Mammogram?

• Women ages 40 to 44 have the choice to start annual mammograms • Women ages 45 to 54 should get mammograms every year • Women 55 and older can switch to mammograms every two years At Houston Methodist, the staff go above and beyond CDC recommendations to ensure the health and safety of each patient during their mammogram appointment. Each patient completes a COVID-19 questionnaire via text prior to their appointment. Upon arrival, each patient has their temperature checked and is required to wear a mask for the duration of their visit. While at your mammogram appointment, each patient is provided a bag for

their belongings, eliminating the need for multiuse lockers. Extensive cleaning and sterilization happens throughout your appointment.

Dr. Pierre Chevray with the Institute for Reconstructive Surgery says, “While going out to get a mammogram may seem risky during the pandemic, skipping an important cancer screening is risky also. If you’ve missed your mammogram and you’re on the fence about scheduling it, please contact your primary care physician or gynecologist to weigh the pros and cons of delaying it any longer. Early detection of breast cancer results in the best prognosis, and allows for the best outcomes when having breast reconstruction to restore a woman’s body image and confidence.”

Institute for Reconstructive Surgery has 15 surgeons with six office locations serving the Greater Houston area. Specialties include breast reconstruction, head and neck reconstruction, pelvic and genitourinary reconstruction, extremity reconstruction, facial paralysis surgery, and nerve and sports injury restoration.

Institute for Reconstructive Surgery 713-441-6100 reconstructivesurgeryinstitute.com

Next Stop...

Request a rapid result COVID-19 test at 24hrer.com/covid-pre-screen

Here to Help with COVID-19 Care and Diagnostic Testing

by Amy Sharp

L

ocal St. Michael’s Elite Hospital founder, Dr. Shannon Orsak, says, “Here in Fort Bend, we are seeing another uptick in COVID-19 cases. If you think you have COVID-19, or have been exposed to the virus, we are here to help you get answers and if necessary, get tested.”

St. Michael’s Elite Hospital offers three types of testing for COVID-19: the antigen test, the PCR test, and the antibody test.

“Both the antigen and the PCR tests diagnose the virus in a person’s body,” explains Dr. Orsak. “The swab for the antigen test is at the anterior portion of the nose, and results are ready in about 15 minutes. The PCR swab is placed in the posterior portion of the nostril, which of course causes more anxiety. PCR results are back in four to 24

hours. The antibody test is a blood draw that doesn’t test for the virus in your body. It tests an individual’s immune status to the virus.

Antibody test results are back in 15 minutes.”

Which test should you get? Dr. Orsak says, “There is a lot of misinformation out there about which is better for determining if you have the virus, the antigen test or the PCR. It depends on the time you are taking the test and your symptoms. No test is perfect, but we can help choose the test that is better for you.” As of late November, insurance companies were only covering COVID-19 testing for individuals who were exposed to the virus or experiencing symptoms.

It is important to note that some employers, school districts, etc. only accept test results from a specific COVID-19 test (antigen or PCR), so

it is beneficial to know which test your situation requires. St. Michael’s also offers company and group testing. It’s an easy way for an employer to test all employees at once.

To request a COVID-19 test at St. Michael’s, visit https://24hrer.com/ covid-pre-screen and fill out the form.

You will receive an email link to make payment and a form to submit to insurance. St. Michael’s Elite Hospital will then send a text when it’s time to head their way. Short and sweet.

As Dr. Orsak always says, “Stay healthy!”

St. Michael’s

bills all insurances.

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

A Wonderful, Compassionate Bedside Manner

by Amy Sharp

R

obyn Malone-Koch works in the image management center at Houston Methodist Sugar Land. She has known Dr. Ulises Baltazar in a professional capacity for nearly 18 years.

For the last several years, Robyn has felt heaviness, fullness, and pain in her right leg. The pain would worsen by the end of the day. “I was very apprehensive about getting anything done,” says Robyn. “So much so, I put it off for a couple of years. But it was getting worse, and finally I knew I had to do something. I chose to see Dr. Baltazar because I knew he would take care of me, and he has a wonderful bedside manner.”

Dr. 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 and General 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.

For Robyn, Dr. Baltazar recommended venous ablation in the small saphenous vein (SSV) in her right leg, the posterior vein that passes up the back of the calf.

Venous ablation is a minimally-invasive procedure where heat is used to close off the vein. Dr. Baltazar also recommended stripping of other varicose veins in Robyn’s right leg. The procedure was done in the office, in about 1 ½ hours. “The entire process was phenomenal,” says Robyn. “Dr. Baltazar controlled everything. I never felt pain. His office staff, his assistant, and Dr. Baltazar took my mind off everything. They are great communicators, very timely, and experienced providers. They actually entertained me during my procedure! I could not have asked for anything better.”

Two months after her procedure, Robyn is doing great.

“I have no problems whatsoever. My leg no longer hurts at the end of the day. I absolutely recommend Dr. Baltazar. His

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 ~ December 2020

www.upclosemagazine.com

compassionate side...it’s wonderful. I recently referred my niece to see him.

She has also had a procedure done, and she has gone down the same path as me when speaking of Dr. Baltazar and his staff. She says, ‘This is amazing!’”

A Local,

Personalized Car Buying Experience

by Amy Sharp

I

n recent years, and especially through the pandemic, more and more we’ve realized the value of investing in local businesses within our community. From boutique clothing to bike shops to bakeries, we love the intimate feel of shopping local. But did you know you can get that same, personalized shopping experience on big purchases like cars?

Tiffany and Jeff Sebastian live right here in Sugar Land. They’re raising their family here, and they’re the owners of Classic Chevy Sugar Land and Classic Chevy HWY 6. This dynamic duo has worked both together and apart in the car business for more than 20 years. At Classic Chevy Sugar Land and HWY 6, Tiffany and Jeff are hands-on owners. The Sebastians operate their businesses on the simple philosophy of “family.”

Customers are catered to as family before, during, and after the car buying experience. Jeff and Tiffany take this philosophy even further by their extended involvement in our community. They’re active supporters of our local charities. Next up is

SUGAR LAND

the third annual Toys for All toy drive benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters of America on December 6th at Classic Chevy Sugar Land. At this event, big brothers and sisters bring their littles for a fun-filled evening that includes hot cocoa, cookies, music, and a gift from Santa!

Need help finding the perfect SUV for your growing family? Or how about a reliable vehicle for your college-bound kid? Tiffany and Jeff ’s teams at Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land and HWY 6 are here to help. Jeff says, “Your kids go to school with our kids. We frequent the same restaurants that you do. You’re our neighbor, and that’s how you’re treated at our dealerships. When we say, ‘Relax and Enjoy the Difference,’ we mean it. Our staff is equipped with the training and tools they need to make your car buying experience both personal and enjoyable. Tiffany and I work onsite daily, and we are loyal to the community we serve. If you have any questions at all, you just have to ask.”

Jeff and Tiffany are proud parents of three

children—Arica, Alivia and Grayson—and two rescue dogs. Classic Chevy Sugar Land and Classic Chevy HWY 6 have the largest selection and inventory in the city, and they are open seven days a week. The Sugar Land location is open Monday-Saturday, closed Sunday. The HWY 6 location is open Sunday-Friday, closed Saturday.

Tiffany says, “Jeff and I always appreciate the chance to get to know you and earn your business.

Your family is our family. We wish each of you a very happy holiday season!”

Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land 13115 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-491-9000 www.classicchevysugarland.com Classic Chevrolet HWY 6 8100 HWY 6 South, Houston, TX 77083 281-201-1040 www.classicchevyhwy6.com

HWY 6

www.upclosemagazine.com

UPCLOSE ~ December 2020 ~ 5

A Tale of Two Local Guys

I

by Amy Sharp

n 1979, Marine John Onofrey saved a man from drowning. He was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps medal for Heroism. Honorably discharged from the United States Marine Corps in 1981, John also earned the Marine Corps Expeditionary medal, Good Conduct medal, and Sea Service deployment ribbon.

John settled in Sugar Land, where in 2005 he met Chris Millward in a local pool league. Chris was going through a hard time. He had lost his brother in Desert Storm. His family then lost his dad, their home and car, and in 2012 Chris lost his mom to cancer.

The two would become business partners.

As it happened, John’s customers at his home inspection company, Top 2 Bottom Inspections, were always looking for pest control. And Chris?

He had experience working for a big box pest control company. The two joined forces. John helped Chris get trained and licensed, and in 2013 they started BUGCO Pest Control out of the garage. Chris says, “My issue with the big box company was that it was all about making the sale, whether the customer actually needed the service or not. John and I agreed that our company would be different. We would provide honest pest control at honest prices.”

John adds, “Not only would we take care of our customers with honesty and integrity, we would

FREE OVEN OR FRIDGE

CLEANING

do the same for our employees. I’m a Marine and Chris’s entire family is military. We operate our business on the basic tenets of the military: duty, honor, commitment and chain of command.”

Today, BUGCO Pest Control has grown to more than 30 employees, 24 trucks, and expanded to San Antonio. It’s certified as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business. John and Chris continue to march on as business partners and friends. Chris says, “We are proud of our team, and thrilled to welcome two brand new members. During 2020, BUGCO employee Brandon Ham welcomed baby boy Adam, and Chris Merlos welcomed baby girl Mia. Our BUGCO family just keeps on growing!”

Treatment options with BUGCO include general pest control, roaches, termites, fire ants, bed bugs, fleas, ticks, and rodents both commercially and residentially. BUGCO also has strategies for controlling mosquitoes, including installation and maintenance of mosquito misting systems, In2care mosquito traps, truck mounted fogging, and backpack fogging.

Top 2 Bottom Inspections 281-565-4677 www.texasinspectors.net BUGCO Pest Control 281-240-2157 www.bugco.org

Sharing s p i h C Tips for Getting Through the Holidays

When you book your first holiday deep cleaning service.

Mahoney’s

House Cleaning Services 281-777-1526 www.mahoneyshousecleaningservices.com 6 ~ UPCLOSE ~ December 2020

www.upclosemagazine.com

MEXICAN RESTAURANT LupitasSugarland.com 281-265-6556

3121 HIGHWAY 6 S., SUGAR LAND (SOUTHEAST CORNER OF HWY 6 & WILLIAMS TRACE)

Like Father

by Amy Sharp

Like Son W hen Bryan Bellamy moved to Fort Bend County back in 1976, he couldn’t have imagined the impact this area would have on his family and his career.

Bryan says, “I started working in air conditioning and electrical in the early 80s. It may have been just a job back then, but the more I delved in, the more passionate I became about air conditioning. It’s such a central part of our lives here in this part of Texas, for both our comfort and our safety.”

Bryan was so passionate, in 1989 he opened his own company: All Cool A/C &

Heating. “I wanted to provide the very best in A/C installation, repair, maintenance, and service to this community that I call home. As my business grew, so did my family. I raised my children, James and Cody, right here in Fort Bend...and I quickly realized that I should instill the same values in both my company and my boys: honesty, dependability, respect, gratitude, and a tremendous work ethic.”

It’s these values that the people of Fort Bend have come to depend on for more than three decades. “We are so grateful to our customers who have allowed our team to earn their trust,” continues Bryan.

“And as every parent says, the years pass To advertise, 281-235-0600

quickly. When Cody was in high school, he wanted to be part of the company, so I had him do random jobs and deliveries.

Cody continued to work for me while attending Texas A&M University, and became a full-time team member after his graduation in 2014. Today, as VP at All Cool A/C & Heating, Cody is responsible for a variety of roles, including comfort advising, quality control checks, customer relations, and other administrative duties.

He’s my right-hand man. I’m also proud that Cody and his wife Danielle are raising their kids— Liam, Adelynn and Brooklynn— right here in Fort Bend.”

Family-owned and operated All Cool A/C and Heating remains committed to the evolving air conditioning needs here in our community. “The thing about A/C,” explains Bryan, “is it’s always improving. Today, it’s not just about pumping out cold air. Here at All Cool A/C & Heating, we are proud to offer ultraviolet sanitizing systems and whole home filtration systems that promote good indoor air quality. The Air Scrubber by Aerus with Active Pure Technology was created in cooperation with NASA to help provide clean air aboard the International Space Station. It purifies the air and reduces particles that can irritate allergies and asthma. It has also proven effective in removing some viruses from the home, including the H1N1 (swine flu) and the influenza virus H5N8 (avian-bird flu).

The Air Scrubber is low maintenance, and there’s no cleaning required!”

Check out family-oriented All Cool A/C and Heating for all of your A/C and heating needs. How can our family help your family?

All Cool A/C & Heating (281) ALL-COOL or 281-238-9292 www.allcoolac.com TACLA8300E UPCLOSE ~ December 2020 ~ 7

Open Enrollment is Now!

by Amy Sharp

F

or nearly five years, Kaushi Shah has helped individuals like you select their Medicare and Medicaid options. Kaushi explains, “This is about helping people, and giving back to the community that I’ve called home since 1997. The Medicare enrollment period is open right now, and it closes on December 7. We can revisit your plan, review it, and make sure your options are right for your situation for 2021. If not, I can assist in looking for other carriers.”

Kaushi works with Andrew Cheng, Principal at Clutch City Insurance. “Andrew is a wonderful

The Cheng Family: Andrew, Anna and their daughter Adelyn.

person that deeply cares about this community,” says Kaushi. “And working together has worked well for us.” Kaushi’s specialty is the Indian community. She understands the culture, and in addition to English, Kaushi speaks both Hindi and Gujarati. “This is especially beneficial for the elderly. I can bridge the language barrier, making sure these individuals are receiving the appropriate benefits. I work with several doctors in the area. When selecting your options, it’s important that your plan meets your needs... including making sure your selected doctors are in network.”

Kaushi and her husband live here in Sugar Land. They’re raising their two daughters here.

“We love it,” says Kaushi. “It’s a great suburb to raise a family, with great schools and everything is close by.” Kaushi is deeply involved in the local temple community and the Indian senior/ community centers, where she sponsors events to educate community members on Medicare.

At Clutch City Insurance, consultations are always free of charge. If you or someone you love is looking to enroll in Medicare or Medicaid, give them a call. They’ll help you choose the plan that’s right for you!”

Clutch City Insurance Kaushi Shah 832-282-3515 kaushi97@gmail.com

Open Enrollment Ends December 7th.

Clutch City Insurance Will Help Choose a Plan That’s Right For You!

F CUS

Family is Everything

“As

by Amy Sharp

we enter the holiday season,” says Dr. Lance Campbell, Pharm.D., R.Ph, founder of local Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy, “like many of you, I am so thankful for my family. My wife Rakel and Cole, Chloe, Caitlyn and Claire have been my rock during this crazy year.”

For many residents of Fort Bend, Dr. Campbell’s other baby—Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy—has become a rock for their families.

Dr. Campbell opened Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy in 2003 with a clear vision. He says, “Before Campbell’s, I worked in a retail pharmacy environment. No one knew the customers’ names or anything about their life and family. To me, that model was seriously flawed. That’s why at Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy we proudly provide outstanding customer service with a family feel.”

This is family service with customized medications. “What compounding means,” explains Dr. Campbell, “is that your medications are made based on your practitioner’s prescription. The individual ingredients are mixed together in the exact strength and dosage

form required...right here, onsite. No rounding it up or rounding it down. We can compound prescriptions for a variety of medications in a variety of forms—creams, lozenges, lollipops, all in different flavors. If you or even your kids hate taking medication, don’t worry, together we can find a solution for you. We can even compound medicine for pets!”

Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy also carries all commercially available medication, making it the perfect one-stop-shop. They accept and bill insurance. “When you walk through our doors, this isn’t a take-a-number then wait-in-line kind of place,” continues Dr. Campbell. “We want to get to know you.

8 ~ UPCLOSE ~ December 2020

www.upclosemagazine.com

But we also recognize that for some, coming into the pharmacy is not an option during the pandemic. That’s why we offer free shipping to all of our customers. Your medications can be delivered to your door, free of charge.”

From the Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy family to your family, “Happy Holidays!”

Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy “If our staff can’t make it… then you probably don’t need it!”

Sugar Land • 281-980-2555 4760 Sweetwater Blvd. Suite 103 Houston • 713-668-4833 6603 Kirby Dr., Houston, TX 77005 www.campbellscompounding.com

A KW Southwest Experience

KW Southwest Experience 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.

UpClose magazine and KWSW will be featuring a different client and charity each month presented by one of KW Southwest’s agents.

Champions for

Joan and Tom McMichael’s Story

J

by Amy Sharp

oan and Tom McMichael first met KW 27 days later.”

(Keller Williams) Southwest agent Cathy Today, Joan and Tom have their customStubbs when they were trying to sell their built, waterfront Sienna home on the market previous home in Riverstone. Joan says, with Cathy as their real estate agent. “We find “The house at the end of our street was also that Cathy takes a personal interest in both for sale, and we attended the Open House. you and your house,” explains Joan. “First of That’s where we met Cathy, and we were very all, she always answers the phone. If Cathy isn’t impressed by her. Cathy knew we had a house available, someone on her team is. Not only is for sale just down the street, yet she was very Cathy’s entire team very knowledgeable, they’re respectful of us. We got to know her a also extremely friendly and accommodating. little bit that day.”

Everything gets resolved quickly. Cathy offers The McMichaels home was still on help with staging. Her photographer does the market when the house right next an excellent job showcasing a home...I find door went on sale. “They also hosted that very important! The marketing an Open House, and from our piece her team puts together is very window we saw as many as nine well written. Cathy is willing to cars parked outside at any given host lots of Open Houses. For time to look at it. That’s when this home, we have chosen Tom and I decided to call Cathy. all-accompanied showings.

She came over for a consultation, This means Cathy (or someone and presented her ideas. We from her team) is present at every loved what she had to say, and showing. It’s someone intimately we engaged Cathy as our real familiar with all that the home has to KW Agent estate agent. The home was sold Cathy Stubbs offer. We are very pleased!”

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.

L

unches of Love is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to helping end childhood hunger in Fort Bend County. Many children in our community rely on school lunch as their only meal of the day. Lunches of Love helps fill the gap during extended school holidays (spring break, summer vacation, Thanksgiving and Christmas break) and weekends by offering children in need a nutritious sack lunch and a snack.

KW Southwest agent Cathy Stubbs says, “I’m honored to feature Lunches of Love as a KWSW Champion for Charity. Please consider volunteering or donating. Together, let’s make sure no child in Fort Bend is hungry this holiday season.” For more information, visit www. lunchesoflove.net.

Lunches of Love 832-586-6995 lunchesoflove@att.net www.lunchesoflove.net

UPCLOSE ~ December 2020 ~ 9

HOME for the HOLIDAYS

At Inspired Living Sugar Land, we’ll change the way you think of senior living.

But more importantly, we may just change your life.

For the better.

It all starts with our perspective. We believe that moving to a senior living community should be something we appreciate for all it brings to our lives.

• Welcome Home • Assisted Living • Memory Care Call to schedule a personal tour, a virtual tour, or to learn more about Inspired Living at Sugar Land.

Inspired Living at Sugar Land 6400 Oilfield Rd Sugar Land, TX 77479 832-769-4986 Visit us at inspiredliving.care ALF#149028

Counting the Red Floor Samples

M

by Amy Sharp

ohamed Naser smiles as he remembers raising his children, nieces, and nephews in the Lone Star Floors showrooms. “We used to play games...like go count the red floor samples. They would spend hours doing it, and they would laugh at the silliest things. Now the kids are grown, and the grandkids are playing these same games. We welcomed my newest granddaughter in September, and I can’t wait to teach her all these little traditions!”

Lone Star Floors was opened in 1995 by Mohamed and his cousins, Ziad Mukhaimer and Imad Mansour. “We are a family-owned and operated business always striving to provide your family superb service and highquality products,” explains Mohamed. “Here, a customer is never just a number. We greet you as family every time you walk through our door, even if it’s ten years later. It’s the same with our employees. Many have been with us since the beginning. They’re our family too.”

Mohamed, Ziad and Imad are on-site and involved in the everyday operation of Lone Star Floors. More than 75% of their business is referrals and repeats. Every floor they sell is installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. There’s no cutting corners, no shortchanging on materials, and job preparation is done correctly. Everything by the book. “And should you have a problem,” says Mohamed, “give us a call. Ziad and Imad have both worked as installers. They understand both sides of the fence. Any concerns you have are always handled immediately.”

In addition to flooring, Lone Star Floors does full kitchen and bathroom remodeling-

-including plumbing, shower glass, painting and granite. Mohamed, Ziad and Imad are honored to have earned an A+ rating with the BBB each and every year they’ve been in business. “We might have thirty years experience, but we are constantly improving,” says Ziad.

“Providing you the best quality and experience possible is what we do.”

Lone Star Floors • 3 Locations • www.lonestarfloors.com Sugar Land: 281-564-1345 10009 Highway 6 South Sugar Land, TX

10 ~ UPCLOSE ~ December 2020

Katy: 281-398-2319 873 South Mason Rd. #300 Katy, TX

www.upclosemagazine.com

Woodlands: 832-813-0813 24627 I-45 North Suite # A The Woodlands/Spring, Texas

G E T

M O R E

F R O M

LONE STAR

FLOORS

Generations

of

Hard Work and Integrity

by Amy Sharp

T

he San Jacinto Monument is the world’s tallest war memorial. Located in nearby La Porte, it stands 15 feet taller than the Washington Monument and honors all those who fought for Texas’ independence. If you haven’t visited, it’s worth the trip. The monument is topped with a 220-ton star that commemorates the site of the Battle of San Jacinto, the decisive battle of the Texas Revolution.

Here in Fort Bend, we live in a diverse community. Some families are new to the area, and others have called Fort Bend home for years and years. One of those families is the Burkhalter family, a family that has ties all the way back to the San Jacinto Monument.

Alan Burkhalter says, “My grandfather was an ironworker. He worked on the San Jacinto Monument back in 1936. My grandfather realized that the future of America depended on dads teaching their kids core values, including hard work, honesty, and the skills of a trade. For the past three decades, I’ve worked with my brother Chris on pipes and plumbing. Today, my three sons have joined our ranks. Some things just stand the test of time.

Here at Alan’s Plumbing, hard work is all in the family.”

Alan is a Master Plumber, and he’s the founder and owner of local Alan’s Plumbing. This isn’t one of those “who-knows-who-owns-it” companies that’ll send a stranger to your house. Alan’s brother Chris and his son Luke are also Master Plumbers. His son Beau is journeyman-licensed and studying for his master plumber license, and son Jake (recently engaged to Becca Long) is an apprentice close to his journeyman license. Alan’s wife Jennifer, Luke’s wife Chelsea, and Katie Johnson answer the phones. The team is completed by journeyman-licensed plumbers Jeff Johnson and Jaime, tradesman-licensed Trevor, and apprentice Christian.

As a family-owned and operated company, Alan’s Plumbing can keep their overhead low.

This allows Alan and his team to pass the savings on to you. Alan says, “The most important thing I taught my sons is that they need to earn your business the old-fashioned way: by doing good work at a fair price.

It’s the same work ethic Chris and I learned from our grandfather. We don’t feed you a line to get in the front door, and we never recommend work that’s not needed.”

When it comes to your plumbing, you need a company you can trust.

Get to know Alan’s Plumbing, the plumbers Fort Bend has depended on for nearly 30 years!

Alan’s Plumbing

281-261-1064 License M-18995

WWW.ALANS.PLUMBING

UPCLOSE ~ December 2020 ~ 11

A Texan-Italian Family Tradition

by Marie Page

“I

was born in Beaumont and lived all my life in Southeast Texas,” says Dr. Thomas Lomonte, D.D.S. “But my grandparents came from Italy. What my family has done is taken our Italian love of food and translated it into a Texan holiday tradition. We call it our Lomonte Family Italian Sausage-Making Party. We do it every year, and it’s a lot of fun.”

Every fall, the Lomontes get together on a warm Texas November day to mix and stuff sausage. “My Uncle Frank started the tradition,” explains Dr. Lomonte. “His son—my cousin—continued the tradition, and now it’s our rite of passage. My siblings and cousins and our kids and grandkids all participate in making delicious TexasItalian sausage. But don’t ask me how...the recipe is a Lomonte family secret!”

What’s no secret is Dr. Lomonte’s love of giving. A philosophy that extends to his dental practice of 30 years. “In the nearly four decades that I’ve practiced at this same location on Murphy Road,” says Dr. Lomonte, “I’ve built lasting relationships with all of my patients. I’m honored to now be seeing not only patients’ children, but their grandchildren too. Your trust in me and what I do has shaped my life’s work. I want everyone that walks through these doors to feel comfortable...it’s why I’m committed to keeping up with the latest and greatest in this constantly evolving field of dentistry. My job is to make sure you get the best, most advanced care possible. And where my job ends, our friendship begins. I love getting to know you and your family. I want you to walk out of this

That's my girl! Natalie Lomonte, who was raised right here in Fort Bend, showing off our delicious Texas-Italian sausage.

office smiling each and every time you visit.”

Happy Holidays to you and yours from Dr. Lomonte and his team!

Thomas M. Lomonte, D.D.S.

“Come in as a patient, leave as a friend.”

12122 Murphy Rd., Stafford, TX 77477 281-530-1440 www.drthomaslomonte.com

Expanding our team of leaders in

PRIMARY CARE Houston Methodist Welcomes Dr. Ali Sawal ALT

WELCOMING Ali Sawal, DO Family Medicine

Asisat Ope, MD Family Medicine

• Acute and chronic care

• High blood pressure

• Complete physicals

• Minor procedures

• Children’s health

• Preventive care

• Health screenings

• Women’s health

• Men’s health

T C OLONY BLVD .

SUGAR LAND

HOUSTON METHODIST PRIMARY CARE GROUP AT BROOKS STREET

59

6

59

FIRS

The physicians at Houston Methodist Primary Care Group at Brooks Street have extensive training and experience in diagnosing and treating the following:

BROOKS ST.

90

HOUSTON METHODIST SUGAR LAND HOSPITAL

1201 Brooks St. Suite 100 Sugar Land, TX 77478 houstonmethodist.org/pcg/brooks-street 281.930.6639

Our physicians are available to safely see patients in person or virtually, as needed.

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.

A Beautiful,

No-Hassle

by Amy Sharp

Master Bath Remodel

S

helley and Gale have lived in their 25-year-old of it. Teri’s foreman Tony and home for 19 years. It was time to do some his crew were wonderful. updating. This summer, they remodeled They do excellent work, the kitchen. Next up was the master and they’re very friendly.

Your bathroom. Shelley says, “We got several quotes When the dog wanted to for the bathroom, including the contractor that be downstairs with them, did our kitchen and Teri Gilberg (better known they were not bothered as the Re-Modelista). We wanted to move a at all. Our dog even got Specialist wall out 18 inches to enlarge the shower, and pets as they moved in and we wanted to decrease the vanity area. The wall out of the house! While contained a drain pipe for the upstairs bathroom, they were here, we also had and the other contractors seemed unsure if they would them change out the light over be able to move it. Teri’s guys looked at the job and didn’t our entry to a bright LED. It’s a safety freak out. They were more confident, and seemed to have more feature. Now our front porch is well lit, and experience. So we went with Teri.” we did it economically.”

To select design elements for the bathroom, Teri suggested Shelley and Gale describe their master Shelley and Gale visit local ProSource. Shelley says, “ProSource bathroom remodel as “a no-hassle project.” is a wonderful, wholesale place. We were very unsure of what “We’ve already recommended Teri to one of to pick, and they helped us choose a cool tile and a very pretty, our friends and on Nextdoor,” says Shelley. pebbled shower pan. For the vanity, we described to Teri’s “We also discovered that we’ve known Teri’s people what we wanted—including how many cabinets and father and stepmother through our church drawers—and they built it for us. Teri was able to use granite for many years. Such a small world!” we had left over from the kitchen for the vanity countertop.

That saved us money, and it looks really nice. The bathroom Re-Modelista: turned out just beautiful.”

Your Home Renovation Specialist The estimate for Shelley and Gale’s master bathroom remodel Specializes in Kitchen and Bath Remodels was three to four weeks. It was finished in three. “Teri checked on “She Gets the Job Done!” 832-535-2501 • cell: 832-731-3191 the job every day,” continues Shelley. “If we had a concern, we sent her an email. She always responded immediately and took care www.theremodelista.com

&

Kitchen Bath

UPCLOSE ~ December 2020 ~ 13

ThE JaCKSONS

Licensed to

Chill

by Marie Page

B

ack in 1982, Brian Jackson’s late father, Johnny Jackson, started a company called Jumpin’ Johnny’s. Brian says, “Back then, Dad mostly worked with real estate agents. After a home inspection, he would fix whatever needed to be fixed, including the A/C. I worked with him on weekends, and after graduation I started working with him full time. It was just the two of us. Then around 1986, we rebranded to Jackson Air and Heat...exclusively working on A/C and heating systems.”

In 2003, Johnny retired and Brian took over the company from his dad.

Johnny continued to play a prominent role until his untimely death in 2018.

Today, both of Brian’s sons—Brian and Blake—and his grandson Jordan are part of the team.

Jackson Air and Heat enjoys an unprecedented reputation for honesty and outstanding customer service. Brian says, “We’re proud of the fact that after all these years, over 80% of our new cus-

for 4 Generations tomers are still referrals from satisfied neighbors, friends and family. We like to say we have a ‘License to Chill.’ Our customers like to savor the comfort that shows how well we keep our word.”

“We are the oldest independent Trane dealer in Sugar Land,” continues Brian.

“We partnered with Trane because they are the best systems on the market.

They’re made right here in Tyler, TX. If your old system barely made it through the summer, you need to experience how good life can be with a Trane XV20i Variable Speed air conditioner. It’s what I have in my own home. Trane was the first in the industry to apply variable speed technology to residential air conditioning. What this means is no more sudden starts and stops at full speed. The variable speed compressor knows exactly when to vary the operating speed as the outdoor temperature changes. The result is no more hot spots, and no more high energy bills. Right now, we are offering off-season pricing, and 0% financing or instant rebates are available. If your

system is struggling, it’s a great time to consider an upgrade!”

From homes to workplaces, basic maintenance to complicated repairs and installations, the Jackson Air and Heat technicians possess the professional training and passion for details necessary to make sure every job is done right. This family-owned and operated business is EPA and NATE certified, an accredited member of the Better Business Bureau, and has won the BBB’s Award of Excellence for the last nine years. Brian says, “Your complete satisfaction means everything to us. Let us know what we can do for you!”

Jackson Air and Heat, Inc. Sugar Land’s Oldest Independent Trane Dealer License #TACLB29585 281-240-1037

www.LicenseToChill.us

HEALTH MATTERS WITH DRS. STEVE HARRIS AND ZACK BRAZZELL, DOCTORS OF CHIROPRACTIC WHERE PAIN RELIEF COMES NATURALLY

NO MORE

S

BACK SURGERIES

by Amy Sharp

uzie Turner has had two back surgeries. She says, “I had chronic back pain, and I was in line for another back surgery when a friend recommended Sugar Land Health Center.

That’s when I decided no more surgeries...let’s see if the chiropractor can help.”

“My initial consultation was with Dr. Steve Harris,” continues Suzie. “He knows what he’s talking about! Dr. Harris put together a treatment plan for my back. I also had plantar fasciitis, so I asked if they could help. Dr. Zack Brazzell came up with the treatment plan for my foot.”

Dr. Harris opened Sugar Land Health Center in 1982. In the summer of 2019, he welcomed his son-in-law, Dr. Brazzell, to the practice. They offer a wide variety of chiropractic care modalities and associated therapies to help people with pain find relief and improve their overall health.

Through his 40 plus years as a chiropractor, Dr. Harris has developed his own methods and treatments for every layer of the body to promote healing. Suzie’s treatment plan included chiropractic care, spinal disc decompression, laser therapy, and pressure wave therapy. Spinal disc decompression involves the use of a specialized traction machine that is controlled by a computer to relieve pressure on a patient’s spinal discs. With laser therapy, specific wavelengths of light interact with damaged tissue to accelerate the healing process. Pressure wave therapy expedites healing to a targeted area, like Suzie’s foot, using high-energy sound waves.

Suzie says, “I’ve completed my treatment plan, and now...I have no pain! I go back to Sugar Land Health Center once a month for maintenance; I feel it’s smart to care for the progress I’ve made. Not only will I never have back surgery again, my overall mobility has improved 100%, and even my sinus problems have gone away. Everything is perfect now!”

“The entire staff at Sugar Land Health Center is super nice and friendly,” continues Suzie.

“They know everyone by their first name. It’s a nice atmosphere to be in when you’re having things taken care of. On a scale of 1 to 10, I give them all a 10. I’ve already recommended Dr. Harris and Dr. Brazzelll to someone else, and they are very pleased as well. I highly recommend Sugar Land Health Center!”

Follow us! sugarlandhealthcenter @sugarlandhealthcenter DrSteveHarrisDC New Patient Special

COMPLIMENTARY Exam & Consultation

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(. .$125 . . . . .VALUE . . . . . . . .) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

If you live in pain, we are here to help.

281-980-1050 - Does not apply to Medicare or Personal Injury.

- X-rays at regular charge.

- Additional charges may apply.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .CODE: . . . . . . TURNER20UP ..........................

Bring this publication to receive the offer.

The SLHC Family.

Check out our new look!

www.sugarlandhealthcenter.com

Sugar Land Health Center 281-980-1050 3425 Highway 6, Suite 101 (behind McDonalds near Williams Trace Blvd) Sugar Land, TX 77478

UPCLOSE ~ December 2020 ~ 15

You don’t have to live with

BACK AND NECK PAIN

Our spine experts serving Sugar Land can see you safely.

59

D. LV

6

HOUSTON METHODIST SUGAR LAND HOSPITAL R

B

LV D.

Whether you are experiencing everyday discomfort or severe pain from a complex condition or injury, our specialists provide advanced, personalized care – so you can get back to an active life.

59

G TO N

BL VD

AM

LI

XI

EE TW AT ER

N

TO W

SW

C RA

B

N

C

LV D

.

EN

TE

.

LE

You can be confident that we are taking every necessary precaution to keep you safe during your visit. Our specialists are available to see patients in person or virtually, when needed.

B

FI R S TC

OL ON Y

If you suffer from back or neck pain, you have options when it comes to treatment. The specialists at Houston Methodist Neuroscience & Spine Center at Sugar Land are experts in treating back and neck disorders.

W

IL

S

E

VD BL

T

.

Learn more about our comprehensive spine care: houstonmethodist.org/neuro-sl 281.675.2491