UpClose Sugar Land Magazine, May 2021 - Successful Women in Business

May 2021

a is ip nd h nsh u a. t l a o o y he latien ybod rewe ur t o be y

Successful

Women in Business

Turning Dreams

M

into

iracles

M

ilagro Salons (pronounced ME-la-gro), Spanish for Miracle, is exactly what this team strives to do each day.

The idea of Milagro Salons began as a conversation in 2003.

Within one year, Mark Anthony’s vision evolved into reality. It was always his goal to help others reach their highest potential in creative hair design.

This has become the foundation of what they do at Milagro Salons.

Mark Anthony’s dad, a master barber, often encouraged Mark to follow in his footsteps. After a layoff in the oil and gas industry in the 1980s, Mark remembered his dad’s words, “You can’t get laid off from doing hair! People always need a haircut.” And well, the rest is history.

Fast forward 30+ years. Mark is creative director and an Aveda Cutting “Purefessional” educator. He loves traveling and teaching, and aspires to help others love this industry as much as he does.

Mark’s vision of helping others began with Tiffany Marroquin over 17 years ago when she was a cosmetology student. Tiffany has since become a true master of her craft. She’s learned what it takes to be a successful woman in business in the industry, and in 2020 she reached her dream and goal of Managing Director of Milagro Salons-Katy. Her clients have seen her develop professionally from a student apprentice into the talented hair designer and leader that she is today. She now strives to help her team do the same.

Jessica Page also began her journey as a cosmetology student with Milagro Salons over 12 years ago. She was a natural when it came to her craft. Over the years, Jessica has worked hard to continue growing professionally, and now enjoys mentoring cosmetology students on the

team to reach next levels. She is a great mentor, educator and leader, as well as a fine example to her teammates. Last year, Jessica was promoted to Managing Director of Milagro Salons-Sienna. Her clients have enjoyed following her journey at Milagro and are excited to see what the next chapter brings.

Mark Anthony’s dream of developing young talent into the best in the industry has not changed. With the help of his sister Eunice Soto and brother-in-law Al Soto, this family-owned business has evolved into 18 years of continued success in multiple locations!

Passing the baton to the next generation of Milagro Salons team members is exciting to see—Mark’s dream continues to stay alive!

“We appreciate the support of our guests, whom we sincerely and humbly thank for our success. We invite you to visit either of our two locations!”

Milagro salons Sienna Plantation 281-778-2500 8790 Highway 6, Ste. 150 Missouri City, Texas 77459

Cinco Ranch 281-601-9500 23120 Westheimer Parkway Katy, Texas 77494

Visit Milagro’s website at www.milagrosalons.com for new client offers!

2 ~ UPCLOSE ~ May 2021

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Something For

Everyone

K

by Amy Sharp

elley Brouillette moved to Pecan Grove when she was seventeen. After graduating from Kempner High School, Kelley left for Texas A&M, and then returned to this community after graduation. “I love it here,” says Kelley. “I started my teaching career at Kempner, and later taught at Travis High School.” Being an entrepreneur at heart, in 2011 this mom of eight opened The Grove Do-Nutz & Deli to have more time to spend with her kids...a business she later sold to focus on her growing real estate career.

It was by accident that Kelley discovered cycling after a real estate client invited her to join an MS 150 team the week before the annual ride.

Naively knowing she could ride a bike, Kelley confidently accepted the challenge with zero training. She borrowed her brother’s mountain bike and began her ride to Austin with little more than a water bottle and helmet for gear. Kelley finished the ride, and she returned her brother’s new mountain bike with bald tires and a worn out seat. After her two-day ride through the hill country, Kelley realized something: A whole new community of athletes existed, and she was eager to become a part of it. Kelley joined various community weekend riding groups and races. She says, “I started to notice that area cyclists were often gathering at random gas stations for meet-ups and water breaks.”

Kelley’s entrepreneurial spirit once again kicked in, and Spindle Cycles & Blends was born.

“I wanted to create a place where everyone feels welcome,” continues Kelley, “regardless of what type of bike they bring in for our technician to fix or diagnose. And I wanted a cool patio with free Wifi. Want a latte in the morning or a healthy smoothie while you wait for your child at the neighboring sports complex? We’ve got you covered. Need a ‘pick me up’ protein shake or muffin on your ride? We have those too!

I like to describe Spindle’s food and beverage side as ‘Starbucks meets Smoothie King.’ We want Spindle to become everyone’s local bike shop and coffee shop. Aside from basic bike repairs, our mechanics pride themselves on building the most intricate of gravel, road and race bikes, as well as keeping the serious riders and racers ready for their next grind. We build bikes in all price ranges using industry-leading Sram components.

Currently, we offer Factor Bikes and Pinarello. Spindle Cycles has some of the best gear on the market, including Black Sheep Cycling attire.”

On the last Sunday of each month, Spindle hosts a Coffee Ride. Kelley says, “Cyclists enjoy complimentary hot coffee, light snacks, and an organized longer bike route with riders in the community. We split into groups and invite riders of all levels, including newer road bike riders...I know, I was once new too! This ride always has a SAG (support and gear) car ensuring no rider is left behind. Every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, we host a dusk ride at 6pm. We hold an Open Mic Night every Thursday at 7pm on the patio. Anyone can show up with their guitar, and we provide the coffee and amp. Something for everyone! I love this community, and I can’t wait to meet you all!”

Spindle Cycles & Blends 832-222-9610 1803 First Oaks Street, Suite 230, Richmond, TX 77406 www.spindlecyclesandblends.com

Monday-Friday, 8am - 8pm Saturday & Sunday, 8am - 4pm

UPCLOSE ~ May 2021 ~ 3

Wear Shorts.

by Amy Sharp

Eat Tacos.

J

uan Carlos “Charlie” Mendoza moved here from El Salvador in 1999. He spent two years working in a restaurant, learning everything he could possibly absorb from a little lady from Puebla, Mexico. Then he struck out on his own.

In 2001, Juan Carlos opened Charlie’s Tacos in Stafford. Most mornings, he serves up more than 300 of his famous, made-from-scratch breakfast tacos...and he also has locations in Richmond and Houston.

But it gets hot here in Texas, and Juan Carlos had a problem: He was embarrassed to wear shorts. “I had inflamed varicose veins in my left leg that were big and noticeable,” says Juan Carlos. “I never wanted to be seen in shorts. My mother-in-law had the same problem, and she recommended I see Dr. Ulises Baltazar.

Dr. Baltazar had helped make her veins look better, and she thought he could help me.”

A highly regarded vein specialist, Dr. Baltazar is a leader in his field. He has extensive experience working with conditions resulting from vein or lymphatic system issues. Dr. Baltazar is board certified by the American Board of Surgery in Vascular Surgery and General Surgery. He’s a Fellow of the American College of Phlebology and a member of Houston Methodist Cardiovascular Surgery Associates’ Sugar Land Vein Clinic—a practice dedicated exclusively to the treatment of venous insufficiency.

“When I met Dr. Baltazar,” continues Juan Carlos, “I found him to be a very kind and open-hearted person. He also speaks Spanish very well, which made it easier for me to talk to him about my condition. He was comforting to speak to, and I left my first appointment with a lot of confidence about getting the procedure done. I knew I would be taken care of.”

Ulises Baltazar MD, FACS, RVT DeBakey Heart and Vascular Center, Vein Clinic 281-240-8400 16605 Southwest Freeway Ste 505 (in the Methodist Professional Building 3) 4 ~ UPCLOSE ~ May 2021

Dr. Baltazar reduced Juan Carlos’s varicose veins using a minimally-invasive laser treatment over two in-office appointments. At the first, he worked on a large vein in the left thigh, and at the second a smaller vein in Juan Carlos’s left ankle. “It hurt a tiny bit,” says Juan Carlos. “But it was really not bad! I’m very happy and grateful for the work Dr. Baltazar did. He’s fantastic, and he does a good job. I can wear shorts again! My two sisters will be visiting him next to take care of their varicose veins.”

Looking for great tacos? Visit Charlie’s Tacos at 12408 South Kirkwood in Stafford, 10330 Blackhawk Boulevard in Houston, or 1118 Minonite Road in Richmond.

To be

FEATURED in UpClose Magazine’s

On The Cover Fort Bend’s Successful Women in Business Founder and Publisher Gina Pizzini Editor Gina Pizzini gina@upclosemagazine.com

th magazine

ANNIVERSARY

COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

Business Editor Amy Sharp Layout and Design Night Sky Creative Account Executives Sharon Ballint Amy Sharp Writers Sara Adams Olivia Cane Marie Page Amy Sharp Photography J. Thomas “Jay” Ford Accounting Kaitlin Ballint UpClose Magazine is published monthly and direct mailed to 150,000 homes.

For information on having your business featured in UpClose, call

281-235-0600 A portion of the editorial content contained in this publication is controlled and contracted by the advertisers contained herein and is part of their advertisement. UpClose Magazine is not responsible for content of these editorials or advertisements.

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.

please call

281.235.0600

To advertise, 281-235-0600

UPCLOSE ~ May 2021 ~ 5

Getting It Done F

or 25 years, Alan’s Plumbing has served the residents of Fort Bend County. You call, and they answer, ready to help with any plumbing issue you throw their way.

You probably even know it’s often Jennifer Burkhalter answering the phone. But did you know Jennifer has her own office team?

“I couldn’t do what I do without my girls,” says Jennifer. “And they are all family! Cathy McFarland has been our company accountant since the beginning. We’re not related by blood, but Cathy and I met way back when our boys were in Boy Scouts together. She lives down the street, and she comes over to my house to do our taxes. My son Luke’s wife Chelsea helps me answer the phones on Thursday and Friday, and Cathy’s daughter Katie helps on Monday and Tuesday. Katie is married to our longtime employee, Jeff Johnson. It’s been super busy since February.

I could not have made it through the freeze without these ladies. We were working until 8 or 9pm for two solid weeks, and even called in Chelsea’s mom and sister to help. We’re still chipping away at it. Our appointment board

by Amy Sharp

is filled for three weeks and counting...we’re getting it done!”

Burkhalter is Luke and Chelsea’s threeyear-old son Wyatt.

“I want to give a huge shout out to both our existing customers and our new customers,” says Jennifer. “Thank Are your A/C condensation lines ready? you for hanging in there with us. We’ve Alan’s Plumbing recommends pouring bleach seen every scenario after this freeze. We down the main line to keep it from went out and capped pipes for everyone backing up. And if it does get backed up, who called, and then scheduled to go give Alan’s a call. They’ll clean it for you. back to repair or reroute new pipes. I know some went two weeks or longer Alan’s Plumbing was founded by Jennifer’s without water to their kitchen or a bathhusband, Master Plumber Alan Burkhalter. room. We diligently worked emergencies Alan’s brother, Chris Burkhalter, and Jennifer in while getting the water back on for and Alan’s son, Luke, are also Master Plumbers. all of you. Thank you for waiting, and Their son Beau is journeyman-licensed and thank you for your recommendations on studying for his master plumber license. Their NextDoor. We’ve received so many calls son Jake is an apprentice close to his journey- from that app, and you’ve graciously man license. This plumbing family includes given us a 5-star rating. We wouldn’t be journeyman-licensed plumbers Jeff Johnson here without all of you!” and Jaime and tradesman-licensed Trevor.

The Burkhalter family is super excited to have Alan’s Plumbing grown once again. Jennifer says, “Jake and Becca were married in April. Please join me in welcoming Becca to our family!” The smallest

Tip: Summer is coming!

281-261-1064 License M-18995

WWW.ALANS.PLUMBING

6 ~ UPCLOSE ~ May 2021

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NEW ROADS LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT BY CLASSIC CHEVROLET SUGAR LAND

Learn More,

Score Higher!

by Amy Sharp

F

or this special Women In Business issue of UpClose magazine, Classic Chevy (Sugar Land and HWY 6) is thrilled to feature Nayol Yi, Center Director at local Education One. Tiffany Sebastian, co-owner of both Classic Chevy locations with her husband Jeff, says, “Jeff and I love this community, including its diversity and everything it brings to our family. Nayol is a gem!”

Nayol started her career Nayol Yi as an electrical engineer with NASA. “I believe in education, and the importance of it,” says Nayol. “My goal is to help struggling kids get to where they’re supposed to be. And average kids? They don’t know the opportunities they have.

They can do better. I aim to push average kids to PAP/AP. In high school, it’s not just an A that matters, it’s what classes you take. Everything is related to college admissions. I first experimented on my own children, and it worked. All three of my children graduated from the University of Texas Honors program. One’s a lawyer, one is in computer programming, and the last is in marketing.”

“It’s been a strange year,” continues Nayol. “So many are behind with the pandemic and virtual learning. We are at a critical time, and we have the summer to make up what was missed. This is not

DOWN ROAD THE

Get Your Vehicle Road Trip Ready

and Tiffany Sebastian

just tutoring. It’s teaching.” At Education One, students can catch up, or get ahead.

The center offers personal tutoring in all subjects. Test preparation is available for the GT test, SAT, ACT, STAAR, AP exams, and more. College consultations are also available. Nayol says, “It’s time to start thinking about college admissions in middle school! We need to set a goal and work towards it.”

Education One offers both online and in-person tutoring. Get your child started today with a free consultation and/or diagnostic testing.

Education One 281-903-7478 3632 South Highway 6 Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.educate-one.com

Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land 13115 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-491-9000 www.classicchevysugarland.com

SUGAR LAND

S

ummer is quickly approaching.

And that means day trips, road trips, rainstorms, and hopefully hot sunny weather will be here soon. Make sure your Chevrolet vehicle is prepared for all that summer has in store by taking it to the Chevrolet Certified Service experts.

Before you head out, give yourself the added confidence that comes with a Multi-Point Vehicle Inspection. Our experts will check your vehicle’s tires, brakes, fluid levels, engine oil life (as needed), maintenance or repair needs.

The thorough assessment helps ensure your Chevrolet is ready for everything you have planned.

This summer, leave it to the experts.

Visit ClassicChevySugarLand.com to learn even more and find great offers from Chevrolet Certified Service.

Classic Chevrolet HWY 6 8100 HWY 6 South, Houston, TX 77083 281-201-1040 www.classicchevyhwy6.com

HWY 6

UPCLOSE ~ May 2021 ~ 7

F CUS A Godsend!

K

by Amy Sharp

rystel Seier is an award-winning voice-over artist, actress, singer, and model. You’ve likely heard her voice in radio commercials, animations, and small film production copy. She’s also a huge fan of local Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy. “I have a medication that in its traditional form, is injected as a pellet,” says Krystel. “That is just not for me! So I have the medication compounded.”

What does it mean to have a medication compounded? Dr. Lance Campbell, Pharm.D., R.Ph, founder of Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy, says, “We make the medicine for you. We mix (or compound) the individual ingredients in the exact strength and dosage prescribed by your doctor. We can compound medications as creams, capsules, gelcaps, and even flavored lollipops! It’s a win-win. You get the medicine in the correct dosage for you, and in a dosage form that works for you.”

“The pharmacist I work with at Campbell’s is Dr. Omar,” continues Krystel.

“The first time, my doctor faxed everything over to him. He’s done a great job ever since. My medication can be compounded as a cream or a gelcap...and both work for me. I’ve come to know that at Campbell’s, everything is, ‘No problem.’ They always utilize outstanding customer service to make your life easier.

If I’m in a hurry, they’re happy to bring my meds out to my car. Other times they’ve mailed them to me at no cost when I couldn’t make it to the pharmacy. They’ll even compound medication in forms that pets love, and that’s a godsend! I recommend Campbell’s to everyone!”

In addition to customized, compounded medications, Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy carries all commercially available medications.

They accept and bill insurance. As Krystel learned, they can compound meds for pets, kids...everyone in your family. Dr. Campbell says, “Life is tough enough. We take the struggle out of taking medicine. If you find yourself dreading administering Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy meds to yourself, your kids, “If our staff can’t make it… or even your pets, give us a then you probably don’t need it!” call. Together, we’ll find a Sugar Land • 281-980-2555 way to make that piece of 4760 Sweetwater Blvd. Suite 103 your life a little easier!”

Houston • 713-668-4833 6603 Kirby Dr., Houston, TX 77005 www.campbellscompounding.com 8 ~ UPCLOSE ~ May 2021

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America’s Most Trusted

F

by Amy Sharp

or the seventh year in a row, Trane has been named America’s Most Trusted Brand by Lifestory Research. The America’s Most Trusted program is a consumer-based research program based on the opinions of thousands of people actively shopping for products. Consumers gave Trane both the best reviews and best trust ratings among the most popular HVAC brands on the market.

This comes as no surprise to Brian Jackson, owner of local Jackson Air and Heat, Sugar Land’s oldest, independent Trane dealer. “We realized Tranes were the best a long time ago,” says Brian. “That’s why we partnered with them more than 30 years ago.

They’re America’s best, and they’re made here in Texas. I can tell you from personal experience that nothing beats the Texas heat like the Trane variable speed XV20i. 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. This Trane has a 22-SEER rating, making it one of the industry’s most efficient systems. You’ll experience not only perfect temps in your home, but also reduced energy costs and usage. It’s what I have in my own home.”

If allergies have had you down this spring, consider pairing your new Trane XV20i with a state-of-art Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) system. Available IAQ products include ultra violet (UV) lights, media filters, Air Scrubbers, and the Trane CleanEffects whole house filtration system. These products remove aller-

gens, dust, and viruses, making the air in your home cleaner, healthier, and easier to breath. Brian says, “The variable speed air conditioners are ideal for these systems because they run longer at a lower speed... so your IAQ product will spend more time cleaning the air in your home.” With 0% financing or instant rebates, plus the Centerpoint rebates currently available and an array of IAQ choices, you really can’t go wrong by upgrading to America’s Most Trusted HVAC system.

Brian says, “Here at Jackson Air and Heat, we’re always available to answer any questions you may have. Just ask. And if you haven’t done it already, please remember to schedule your annual A/C tune-up. Summer temperatures are right around the corner!”

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

www.Licen ens seToChi oChilll. l.us us

His Technique

is Magic

by Amy Sharp e Minh Tran started seeing Dr. Thomas Lomonte while she was in high school...more than 30 years ago! She says, “Back then, my whole family saw Dr. Lomonte. I continued to see him into adulthood. I think I left for one year. It was sometime in my 20s, and I left because of my insurance. I got a filling elsewhere... and I quickly went back to Dr. Lomonte.”

Why? “He knows my mouth, and his technique is magic!” explains Le Minh. “When I got a shot of novacaine elsewhere, it hurt! I don’t know what Dr. Lomonte does, but it never hurts. I joke with him that he keeps my candy habit alive. He does my cleanings of course, and I’ve also had numerous fillings, four crowns, two root canals, and recently a dental implant. I remember being so stressed before my first crown, but he made it easy. For the dental implant, I had bone that didn’t build quickly enough. My tooth had abscessed. It had to be pulled, and a bone graft was needed. I had no pain at all throughout the process. The dental implant did take a moment to get used to, it feels different when I floss. But other than that, it’s like a normal tooth...and I’m able to eat anything!”

Dr. Lomonte has been practicing at his same office on Murphy Road since 1982. Le Minh was one of his very first patients! Le Minh says, “Dr. Lomonte has seen me grow up.

Today, I’m a pharmacist. He knows the pressures I’m under. He tailors everything to my life. His staff, Laurie, Linda, and Lynn, have been there for at least 10 years. They know my habits! I’m always five minutes late, and they don’t bother to call anymore. They know I’ll

L

C

athy and John Wesley discovered Lone Star Floors years ago when they wanted to replace their first floor carpet with tile. Cathy says, “We got a couple of estimates.

One was from Ziad Mukhaimer and Lone Star Floors. We chose Lone Star because we found Ziad to be very personable, and the price was fair.”

The Wesleys called on Lone Star Floors again two years ago to remodel two full bathrooms (including cabinets, countertops, and shower), and to replace the upstairs carpet with luxury vinyl. “We called again because Ziad is very dedicated to projects. He’s on-site every day, and very hands-on...often doing some of the work himself. If I text or call him, Ziad responds right away. The Lone Star crews are very professional. They come when they say they will, and stay until things are finished.

They don’t like to waste time...work happens every day. Renovation is hard, but these crews get things done.”

This February, the Wesleys called Lone Star Floors once more after the freeze. “We had a pipe burst, and we had water damage in our master bedroom, bathroom, closet, and part of the living room. After the plumber finished, and we got the water out...John called Ziad on Monday. He was at our house Monday

be there. I would definitely recommend Dr. Lomonte. He has a good touch, and he knows everything. He did my teeth whitening, and I know he does Invisalign. His office is truly a one-stopshop for getting anything done.”

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

Three-peat Customers

by Amy Sharp afternoon. That meant everything to us! In the past, we’ve always gone to the showroom to pick our materials. This time I was really stressed out with getting the water out. I told Ziad I trusted him...pick something for us. He showed up with samples from the showroom, and our master bathroom turned out great!

Everything looked so good, we went ahead and had them remodel our kitchen as well!”

Lone Star Floors was opened more than 25

years ago by Ziad and his cousins, Mohamed Naser and Imad Mansour. “There’s lots of competition in remodeling,” says Cathy. “That they’ve been doing it for so long says a lot! We just think they’re the best. Our neighbor across the street recently asked Lone Star Floors for a bid because they were so impressed with how many times we’ve brought them back into our house!”

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

10 ~ UPCLOSE ~ May 2021

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

To advertise, 281-235-0600

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

Watch our Facebook page for dates and times of when vaccines are available.

Then text the word “vaccine” to 888-506-3502.

An MRI Just For

Extremities

by Amy Sharp

D

o you get claustrophobic just thinking about an MRI? Does it seem silly to you that you would have to endure going through “the tube” just to get images of your arm or foot? St. Michael’s Elite Hospital is pleased to announce its recent acquisition of an O-scan extremity MRI system.

CEO/CNO Jessica Rivas says, “The extremity MRI only does an MRI where you need it: the foot, ankle, leg, knee, hand, wrist, arm, or elbow. So many people are claustrophobic or struggle with small spaces. With the O-scan,

the entire body is outside of the machine except for the extremity we are scanning. Another advantage? An extremity MRI’s scan time is much quicker than a traditional MRI. Your time spent here, from arrival to walking out the door, is far less.”

St. Michael’s Elite Hospital is working with local primary care doctors and podiatrists to provide pre-surgery extremity MRIs on an outpatient basis. If you’re in need of an MRI to an extremity and only a traditional MRI is offered to you, you do have options. Jessica says, “We would just need an order from your PCP,

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

orthopedic surgeon, or podiatrist.

Then we’ll get you registered and schedule your appointment. We’ll have you in and out of here in no time!”

The O-scan extremity MRI is just the latest in a long line of advancements and improvements at St. Michael’s Elite Hospital. “More than 10 years ago, when Dr. Shannon Orsak and his brother Brian opened St. Michael’s as a standalone emergency room, their goal was simple: To make it as easy as possible for you to get the care you need,” says Jessica. “You’ve all come to know us as the 24-hour emergency room with no wait times and fast-tracked service. That isn’t going anywhere! As a small hospital, we’ve expanded our on-site radiology services on an outpatient basis, including extremity MRIs. We provide inpatient hospital care and short term rehabilitation. We are truly able to tailor the care we are delivering to every individual, making St. Michael’s a one-stop-shop. And we’ve haven’t lost sight of our mission. We will always make it as easy as possible for you to get the care you need.”

It’s easy to see why St. Michael’s Elite Hospital is ranked #1 in patient satisfaction. They’re here for you: 24 hours a day, 7 days week, 365 days a year.

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 KW Southwest Experience

Anne and Chad Richardson’s Story

A

by Amy Sharp

nne and Chad Richardson met Keller Williams Southwest too. We share the same values, including hard work, integrity, loyalty, (KWSW) agent Pam Shockey almost 15 years ago. Anne says, faith and family. We’ve run the gamut with Pam: We’ve sold homes, “When we were ready to sell our first home in Sienna, Pam was we’ve purchased established homes, and most recently Pam helped selling the home a couple houses down from us. We were friends us with a new build. We thought our third home was our forever with the sellers, and they highly recommended Pam. Since then, home...but I ran into Pam at HEB, and this new build was a Pam has watched our family grow and expand.” deal we just couldn’t pass up.”

“We’ve always gone back to Pam for our real estate needs Pam has been in the business for more than 20 years, and because Pam makes it easy,” continues Anne. “As we welcomed most of her experience is Sienna focused. “Pam’s knowledge our two children, Charlotte and Chase, to our family, we worked of Sienna Plantation is invaluable,” says Anne. “I always say, with Pam to buy and then sell our second home in Sienna. if I were stuck on an island and could pick one teammate, She then helped us purchase our third home in Sienna...

I would pick Pam. She’s no nonsense, well-informed, and at the time, we said, ‘This is it!’” and resourceful. She gets the job done, and she’s a real Anne calls Pam a fixture in the Sienna community. asset to this community. When I was looking to get She says, “I see Pam almost daily driving down Sienna back into the workforce, I went to Pam for advice on Parkway, and I often run into her at the grocery store. marketing and networking. I had actually forgotten What I love is that this isn’t a business relationship; that Pam was the President of the Sienna Business Pam is more like family. When I see her at HEB, it’s Network when I sought her advice! And in true Pam never a quick, ‘Hello.’ It’s meaningful dialogue. Pam fashion, she helped me in any way she could. I would KW Agent asks about my family, and I’ve come to know her children recommend Pam to anyone!”

Pam Shockey

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.

12 ~ UPCLOSE ~ May 2021

Shut. The. Front. Door.

Pest ol tr Con acts tr Con

On Door-To-Door

I

by Amy Sharp

t’s that time of year! Door-to-door salespeople are relentlessly trying to convince you to sign up for pest control. Local BUGCO Pest Control owner John Onofrey says, “The people coming to your door are just that: salespeople. They will say or do anything to get your signature on a contract and collect their commission. Often these contracts include hidden fees and a penalty for trying to get out of the contract. We want our neighbors to be aware: Never sign a contract without all prices and warranties in writing.”

But wait, don’t all pest control com-

panies require you to sign a contract?

“Actually, no,” says Chris Millward, partner at BUGCO Pest Control. “Here at BUGCO, we never enter into a contract with our customers. We create service agreements. This agreement outlines the services we agreed upon and our pricing. There are no hidden or surprise fees.

If at any point you have questions, you can give us a call or access your account through our online customer portal. Most

®

importantly, you are free to cancel the service agreement at any time without penalty.”

John and Chris started BUGCO Pest Control more than a decade ago right here in Fort Bend County. Today, the company has grown to more than 40 employees, 29 trucks, and expanded from here to Galveston to Corpus Christi to San Antonio and up to the Dallas Metroplex. It’s certified as a Service-Disabled VeteranOwned Small Business. Treatment options 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.

Chris says, “John and I built this business on integrity. We do what we say we’re going to do, and our customers keep coming back because of it...no contract.

Door-to-door pest control sales are a scam.

Google them. You’ll find dozens of 1-star reviews where homeowners are complaining about what was sold to them as part of the contract vs. what was delivered. And then they were penalized for trying to end that contract.”

So what should you do if a door-to-door sales person comes to your door? Just say, “No, I use BUGCO!” You can also report them to the police and warn your neighbors through apps like NextDoor.

John says, “If you do sign, know your cancellation rights. The Federal Trade Commission gives you 72 hours to cancel a door-to-door sale for a full refund.”

We are here to protect your home, family and business.

BUGCO Pest Control 281-240-2157 www.bugco.org 9720 Harlem Road #B3, Richmond, TX 77407

UPCLOSE ~ May 2021 ~ 13

Small With a HUGE Impact

by Amy Sharp

Jami Bertrand entered the real estate industry after leaving a successful career at a credit union downtown. “I was inspired by agents in the area.

I loved how much freedom they appeared to have. I quickly learned what the job entailed once I got licensed in 2007. I joined a big box brokerage for continued training and mentorship.

My very first transaction was a commercial lease for a medical company expanding to Texas from Georgia. We were in the middle of a recession, and residential real estate was tough. I closed many commercial leases under that brokerage.”

When Jami’s mom became ill with breast cancer, she took a year off. “I just couldn’t imagine not being by her side,” says Jami. In 2011,

Jami joined another brokerage, where she found she just couldn’t afford the fees. Her mom passed in 2012. “At that point, I had experienced a lot of life and distractions. I returned to real estate in December of 2012 after my one year hiatus....and I’ve been rockin’ and rollin’ ever since!”

In 2014, Jami opened her independent brokerage, Elite Real Estate Services, with three agents. “I’ve learned, real estate is not as easy as it looks. It takes a lot of work to sustain a real estate career. At traditional brokerages, many agents get lost in the numbers, and many offices focus on top producers. Agents need oneon-one support. There’s a difference between training and coaching. We coach. I have a Director of Training and Development on staff with proven tools that help agents grow and become successful. We offer competitive technology, including a state-of-theart transaction management system.

Making Medicare as Easy as Possible

DR.

Yezid Mora is the owner and primary care doctor at Mora Cares in Needville. He’s been referring Medicare patients to Keren Delaune at local Clutch City Insurance for more than five years. Dr. Mora says, “When patients are turning 65, they often come to me for advice when selecting Medicare. They ask what they should do, so they won’t lose me as their doctor.

I honestly have no idea. I refer them to Keren.”

“Eighty percent of my patients speak Spanish,” continues Dr. Mora.

“And Keren speaks Spanish too. That’s a huge advantage. There are so many choices, and Keren can discuss these options with my patients in their native language.

I’m old-fashioned. I want

to help manage my patients’ whole health picture.

Together with Keren, I can make that balance: I take care of providing my knowledge in health and medicine, and Keren takes care of the economic part. That part is important. Not all plans cover all medications. Keren makes sure my patients have the correct Medicare insurance options for their individual situation.”

Medicare consultations at Clutch City Insurance are always free of charge.

If you’re not happy with your current plan, Keren and her colleagues can help you review your options.

For those that are turning 65 soon, now is a great

14 ~ UPCLOSE ~ May 2021

www.upclosemagazine.com

It’s everything the big brokerages offer with less fees. Two of my original agents are still with me today.”

Together with her husband and business partner Julius, Jami has three children: Raegan and fraternal twins, Carter and Kennedy. “I know how hard it is. I’m a mom...all the way. My kids come to my office after school.

I’ve had agents bring babies to training.

We are very family-friendly.” In honor of her mom, Jami volunteered as the Race Day Chair for the Susan G. Komen Young Professionals Council.

She serves on multiple boards, and was selected by Texas Realtors to the Housing Initiatives Committee. “We’re small here at Elite Real Estate Services, but we’re making a huge impact!”

Elite Real Estate Services 800-952-4998 7070 Knights Court, Suite 202 Missouri City, Texas 77459 www.texaseliteliving.com

by Amy Sharp

time to get a jumpstart on understanding your options. “Even if you have insurance through a spouse or employer,” says Keren, “we’ll help you make an informed decision and answer any Medicare-related questions. Medicare has lots of rules. My goal for my clients is simple: I want to make Medicare as easy as possible. ” Dr. Mora says, “The feedback from my patients regarding Keren is wonderful. I often hear how she helped so much in making Medicare decisions. And if my patients are satisfied, I am satisfied! I do recommend Keren and will continue to refer patients to her.”

Clutch City Insurance Keren Delaune 281-236-1321 kerendelaune@gmail.com

What Can The Re-Modelista

DO T

For You?

by Amy Sharp

eri Gilberg (better known as the Re-Modelista) has Teri. “Since this homeowner was remodeled many, many Fort Bend homes over the doing a complete remodel, years. What can she do for you? Check out some I suggested we repipe of the exciting features in a recent Re-Modelista the house with flexible Your home remodel.

PEX pipe first. Galvanized or Let’s start with the master bathroom. Teri says, copper pipes, especially old “This bathroom features a tub to walk-in shower ones, are prone to bursts and conversion. We added a showerhead, of course, but have leaks. I wouldn’t want Specialist we also left a faucet at tub level for the homeowner you to do all this remodeling to wash the dogs. We put in a nice, long shower bench work and then experience a and shampoo niches for functionality and convenience. leak. We replaced all interior The countertops are a gorgeous Quartzite, and we added doors with barn doors or pocket lots of cabinets to organize the room. We wainscoted the doors. We even added a pocket door entire bathroom with tile to make the walls easy to clean. The floors between the hall bathroom and an adjoining are a fantastic marble.” In the adjoining master bedroom, Teri’s crews bedroom. The kitchen island has electrical installed wood floors and added a built-in desk. outlets that include USB ports. There’s just Like many older homes in the area, this home had a closed off so much you can do to make the home more kitchen. Teri says, “We opened it up to the living room with a power functional, but still beautiful.” beam, then separated the room with a large island that includes Teri’s known as the contractor who gets the ample storage underneath and an apron sink. The countertops are job done right, on time, and within budget. also Quartzite. The cabinetry is all new, and the pantry cabinet has “Don’t ever think what you want can’t be done,” pull-out drawers to make items easy to find.” says Teri. “Or maybe you’re just not sure what The living room features a wood accent wall amid the blue and it is you want. Either way, give me a call. Let’s gray color scheme. The baseboards are wider than the norm, and the see what we can do together.” crown moulding is dark. “There are so many options, and designers make this job a lot simpler,” says Teri. “It wasn’t easy to coordinate Re-Modelista: paint colors with the Quartzite countertops, so we called in Louise Your Home Renovation Specialist Ostrander with Decor on a Dime. Louse picked the perfect paint colors in less than an hour, and suggested the big light fixtures and Specializes in Kitchen and Bath Remodels “She Gets the Job Done!” 832-535-2501 • cell: 832-731-3191 recessed lighting. It’s perfect.”

“I also want to talk a little bit about things you may not see,” continues www.theremodelista.com

Bath &Kitchen

To advertise, 281-235-0600

UPCLOSE ~ May 2021 ~ 15

COOKING IT ALL

by Amy Sharp

“JUST RIGHT” FOR 45 YEARS

L

upe Garcia grew up in a family of 11.

She’s been cooking for a large crowd for as long as she can remember! “The very first thing I remember cooking is mole,” says Lupe.

For 22 years, Lupe cooked for a wellknown Tex-Mex chain...a restaurant still benefiting from her authentic family recipes.

She then spent another five years cooking for other restaurants. Eighteen years ago, Lupe took the plunge into business ownership with her husband Jaime, and Lupita’s Mexican Restaurant was born.

At Lupita’s Mexican Restaurant, you’ll find the same mole that Lupe learned to make fresh more than 45 years ago...served hot on the only mole enchiladas you’ll find in Sugar

Land. The salsa is made from scratch every day using roasted tomatoes, and it’s served warm. Both the corn tortillas and flour tortillas are handmade. All ingredients are always fresh. Jaime says, “No one makes food as good as Lupe. She’s picky, and everything has to be just right!” Hear that? There’s no need to go inside the loop for the best TexMex. It’s right here in our backyard! Even better? Lupita’s margaritas are just $4, all day, every day.

May is a month of celebration. If you have a graduation, company picnic, or even a get together with friends at home coming up, Lupita’s Mexican Restaurant can bring Lupe’s family recipes to you. Catering includes fresh, fabulous fajitas marinated with hand-

ground spices delivered to your party and kept hot in chafing dishes. “Give us a call to discuss all of your catering options,” says Jaime. “We are always available to help you throw a really fun fiesta.”

It’s been a tough year for restaurants with the pandemic. Lupe and Jaime feel blessed to have survived it. “You, our community, have kept us going.” says Jaime. “From the bottom of hearts, thank you. We are still here because of you.”

Lupita’s Mexican Restaurant

281-265-6556 3121 Highway 6 S., Sugar Land (SE corner of Hwy 6 & Williams Trace) www.lupitassugarland.com

FRESH AND AUTHENTIC

NO PASSPORT REQUIRED

Hope Begins Here!

by Amy Sharp From left: Lisa Kampwerth, Kelsey Engdorf, Belinda Lopez, Cathy Hein, Natalie Andrepont, Susan Baker (seated, center), Ruba Afifi, Kiira Sisman, Carolina Román, Carissa Ferguson. Not pictured: Olivia Pudlo.

W

hen her 26-year-old daughter, Tiffany, was diagnosed with special needs at the age of two, Susan Baker turned to personal therapy to cope. “During this process, I discovered the importance of finding the right therapist,” says Susan. “I realized that there was a need for life-altering therapy, and I wanted to provide this to my community. That was when I decided to go back to school and become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).”

Nearly five years ago, Susan opened Motivations Counseling. “For several years, I worked for another counseling agency. It was a great experience, but I wanted to offer something better. We’re different. We don’t just schedule clients an appointment with any therapist. It’s important that each individual be matched with the therapist that’s best for them and their situation.”

“Hope begins with that initial phone call,” continues Susan. “We want them to know that someone is here ready to help now. We believe it is critical that the client-therapist connection be made before the client ever sets foot in our office. Our ultimate goal is to start the therapeutic process with the client the same day they reach out to us for help.”

In the beginning, it was just Susan in Sugar Land providing therapy. Today, Motivations Counseling has grown to 11 therapists at two locations. The second location is in Katy/ Cinco Ranch. “Each therapist is hand-selected by me, to fit our model,” explains Susan.

“Our community is diverse. I want my staff to meet the needs of this community. We have therapists with a wide range of training and specializations. They speak different languages, including Spanish and Arabic. And we aren’t finished. We are still growing, and will continue to grow. I’m always looking for great therapists to add to our practice.”

Motivations Counseling treats adults, adolescents, couples, and families. Anxiety, depression, and relationship-issues are among the many mental health issues addressed. As COVID-19 changed the world, Motivations Counseling adjusted. “We now offer both in-person and telehealth appointments. All of our therapists can do telehealth if a client feels uncomfortable with in-person office visits. We are here to help in any way we can.”

Susan and her husband Rick have been married for more than 33 years. Their children, Tiffany and David, both attended FBISD schools from www.upclosemagazine.com

kindergarten through graduation. David is now in college, and Tiffany is in the day program at The Brookwood Community, an organization Motivations Counseling is proud to support.

Susan has guest lectured several times at the University of Houston-Victoria, presenting to graduate students pursuing their LPC license.

“I don’t have a ton of spare time,” says Susan.

“But when I do, I enjoy traveling, exercising, and simply spending time with family and friends.”

Your phone consultation with Motivations Counseling is free of charge. Hope begins here and now!

Motivations Counseling 281-858-3001 Sugar Land 14090 Southwest Freeway, Suite 300 Sugar Land, Texas 77478 Katy 24044 Cinco Village Center Blvd, Suite 100 Katy, Texas 77494 www.motivationscounseling.com

UPCLOSE ~ May 2021 ~ 17

It’s Time to Brush the Dust Off Those Dancing Shoes!

A

by Amy Sharp

fter more than a year of restrictions, there’s a light at the end of this tunnel! Weddings and other functions are starting to fill up your calendar once again. Are you ready? Are your dancing shoes ready?

If you’re just not feeling it, Arthur Murray Sugar Land is here to help. April Muller, co-owner of local Arthur Murray Sugar Land with her husband Chris, says, “We couldn’t be more excited about the world opening back up, and we’re ready to help everyone brush the dust off their dancing shoes. Our private or semi-private lessons are tailored to your desired dancing style and your schedule. Not sure what style you’re interested in?

We can help you figure that out too! I promise, here at our studio you are never in over your head.

Ninety percent of our students have never danced before. You can bring a partner with you to your lessons, or do them individually.

As an Arthur Murray student, you’re also invited to all of our studio-hosted dance parties at no additional cost. We break out the disco ball and have a great time. These parties provide a wonderful opportunity to get to know others in our community. ” The bottom line? Dancing is good for the soul. “It’s

therapeutic,” explains May Dancing Special April. “And after a year of isolation, we 1 private lesson for $25 all need it. This 3 private lessons for $75 is a fun activity that provides exercise and stress relief. We really get the endorphins going! In our years teaching here in Sugar Land, Chris and I have seen empty nesters rekindle their romance.

Pre-pandemic, many of our students became close friends that went out dancing together on weekends. If you do find yourself fretting over an upcoming special event, we’ve got you covered. We can help with the wedding first dance, the mother/ son dance, the father/daughter dance...or whatever it is that’s coming your way.”

The first step to getting back out there is an introductory class at Arthur Murray Sugar Land. Schedule yours today!

Arthur Murray Sugar Land 713-899-3606 16525 Lexington Blvd., Suite 170 Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.arthurmurraysugarland.com

She Keeps Your Legal Health in Shape

by Amy Sharp

After finishing law school and passing the Kentucky bar exam, Margie Connolly practiced law in Kentucky for 10 years. During that time, she moved from being a criminal prosecutor to a family law attorney, and she had three children. Then she moved to Texas.

“My husband took a job here,” says Margie. “And I declared myself retired from law. I had three kids in a new city, and I would have had to take a new bar exam.”

Not one to sit still, Margie became certified as a personal trainer and taught fitness and yoga classes. She was the Physical Fitness Director at the YMCA, and then Operations Director at Houstonian Lite. She started her own business called My Personal Fitness, which she still operates today as a free Facebook Live class.

In 2011, Margie trained for and completed the Texas IronMan triathlon.

It was then that she decided to study for the bar. “I was up for the challenge,” says Margie. “I figured if I could finish an IronMan, I could pass the Texas bar.” She passed on her first try. In 2013 and at the age of 52, Margie opened her own law practice.

Margie focuses on family law, estate planning, and probate. She helps Fort Bend families with normal family legal issues: wills, trusts, divorce, custody...things that just happen in life. “I keep my clients’ legal health in shape,” says Margie. “I help navigate the process by creating effective documents, and going through the court system as painlessly as possible 18 ~ UPCLOSE ~ May 2021

when court is involved. I also help people set up small businesses (LLCs).”

Community means everything to Margie. She’s a longtime member of the Sugar Land Rotary Club. This coming year, she will serve as an Assistant Governor for Rotary District 5890, serving Greater Houston and the surrounding areas. Margie is just finishing her term as President of Fort Bend Junior Service League Sustainers group.

For safety or convenience, Margie is always happy to meet with clients privately on Zoom in lieu of an in-person meeting. She also encourages everyone to visit her website at www. mmconnollylaw.com. “It’s a wealth of information,” explains Margie. “I promise you’ll learn something, and it costs nothing to visit the website!”

Margaret McCullough Connolly, PLLC

346-309-4236 4610 Sweetwater Blvd. Suite 200, Sugar Land, TX 77479 mmconnollylaw@gmail.com • www.mmconnollylaw.com

www.upclosemagazine.com

We’ve Experienced an

UNPRECEDENTED YEAR.

12th Annual Fort Bend

Empty Bowls Friday, June 25, 2021 6:30pm - 9:30pm Safari Texas Tickets are only $50 and include a delicious meal of appetizers, soups and desserts. Handpainted bowls and pottery will be available for purchase, as well as silent and live auctions, a wine pull, a whiskey pull, live streaming, and live entertainment. Underwriting opportunities are available.

How Can You Get Involved?

S

by Amy Sharp

ince the beginning of COVID19, East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry (EFBHNM) has provided tens of thousands of Fort Bend residents food and toiletry items to get them through this unprecedented time. Development Director Stacey Williams says, “We see at least one new family a week.

And its often not who you would expect. So many in our community have been left without jobs or anywhere to turn this past year.”

“We are not your typical food pantry,” continues Stacey. “In addition to the generous donations of individuals, churches and other groups, East Fort Bend receives regular orders of meat, eggs and fresh produce from area grocery stores and gardens. Families can receive up to four full food orders in a year, or one supplemental order a week. These orders are tailored to the size and special needs of the household, and they include laundry detergent and toiletry items. Kids snacks are included to families with children.

We distribute holiday food baskets during Christmas and Thanksgiving, and we also participate in Houston Food Bank’s Backpack Buddy Program.”

Recognizing that basic human needs include more than food, the Financial Assistance Program at EFBHNM provides help with mortgage or rent and utilities. East Fort Bend’s resale shop, Tri-City Churches Resale Shop, has been voted “Best Bargain Shopping Store in Fort Bend” by Fort Bend Focus readers multiple times. One hundred percent of the resale shop proceeds go directly to support the EFBHNM programs. This year also marks the fourth year for the annual Outrun Hunger 5K Fun Run in September. In 2019, Outrun Hunger raised more than $20,000.

Both the food pantry and resale shop are dependent on volunteers like you, plus monetary, food and resale shop donations

Sponsorship opportunities are available for in-person or virtual.

Virtual sponsors will have a party kit of their choosing to celebrate from home! are always welcome. Stacey says, “We also invite you to participate in one of our fundraising events. Empty Bowls, our largest fundraiser of the year, is coming up on June 25th at Safari Texas. Safari Texas owners Allison and Cassandra Wen helped us grow this event in the early years, and we are thrilled to return to their venue. Last year’s event was cancelled due to the pandemic, so our goal is to raise more money than ever before! It’s a wonderful evening out, and you’ll really get a chance to see what EFBHNM is all about!”

For Empty Bowls tickets, visit www.humanneeds.org/tickets.

For more information and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.humanneeds.org/sponsor-empty-bowls or contact Stacey Williams: Stacey@humanneeds.org.

281-261-1006 435 Stafford Run, Stafford, Texas 77477

www.humanneeds.org

UPCLOSE ~ May 2021 ~ 19

Quality Care You Can Count On

T

by Amy Sharp hirteen years ago, Tamara Wellington’s aunt and sister needed help caring for an elderly couple. Tamara volunteered, and a business was born.

Loving Arms Senior Assistance is a non-medical home care agency. With offices inside Lone Star Living, the staff takes care of both residents of the independent living facility, and they provide private, in-home care. It started with just Tamara and her sister. Today, Loving Arms has grown to 23 employees. “I eat, breathe, and live taking care of people,” says Tamara. “I think about each of my clients every day, and I check in on their families too. Communication is important.

I want to form a bond with both the client and their family.” Tamara still sees her very first client, Phoebe, seven days a week. “Phoebe’s my best friend. Pre-pandemic, we did ice cream dates after doctor appointments. I can’t wait to get back to that!”

Services provided by Loving Arms Senior Assistance include companionship, meal preparation, light housekeeping, transportation, medication reminders, in-home hair, nail, and skin care by licensed cosmetologists, recreational activities, and a

fitness training program geared for the elderly. Tamara says, “We provide a minimum of four hours per day of care, up to round-theclock, live-in care. Each plan of care is tailored for the individual client, and it’s changed as needed. Our mission is to improve the lives of those who are aging, have disabilities, or who are recovering from an illness, surgery, or hospitalization.”

Tamara is a licensed phlebotomist. She’ll earn her registered nursing degree in August. Her sisters, Carla and Sophie, both work with her and are studying to be nurses as well. “I look forward to adding licensed nursing to our list of services. We’ll be even more productive for our families.” The Loving Arms Senior Assistance staff has volunteered with American Carribean Chamber of Commerce, aiding in COVID-19 and HIV testing.

Originally from Jamaica, Tamara grew up in the Alief area. Her husband Scotty is her rock.

Her children, Deaunte, Tamya, Dustin and

The BEST Mother’s Day Gift?

TIME.

Jeremiah, plus fur babies Blossom and Annabell are growing up in the family business.

If you or a loved one is in need of extra help, Loving Arms Senior Assistance is here for you. Assessments are always free of charge.

Loving Arms Senior Assistance 281-901-8279 10680 Westbrae Parkway #129 Houston, Texas 77031 www.lovingarmsrasst.com

A Tropical Haven

TREAT MOM to a CLEAN HOUSE this Mother’s Day!

Mother’s Day Gift Certificates available.

Mahoney’s

House Cleaning Services 281-777-1526 www.mahoneyshousecleaningservices.com

~Tanning Beds ~Sunless Tanning ~Spa Services 911 3rd Street Rosenberg, TX 77471 atropicalhaven.com (832) 595-2820

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.

EDUCATION

The State of Education...What Do We Do Now?

H

by Amy Sharp

ow did this year go for you and your child? Do you feel as though they learned what they should have? Betsy de Vega, founder of KnILE Center, says, “I fear what the next school year will look like for some students. Many children have just been pushed forward, and lots of information is missing. The level of anxiety is at an all-time

high in the wake of COVID. In addition, the districts have not discussed whether or not they will accept credits from the families who opted to homeschool their high schoolers this past year instead of attending regular school.”

What do you do now? You have options!

KnILE Prep Academy, the private school at KnILE Center, offers a different approach to schooling. “We’re a micro school,” says

HEAV EN to S

y s t e B

Betsy. “We are a face-to-face, multicultural school with small student-teacher ratios. We follow the child’s needs, not the other way around. Most importantly, we offer a wholechild approach to learning. We do NOT just focus on academics and testing. We focus on the whole child and incorporate a SEL (socioemotional learning) curriculum into our daily routine to help students thrive and meet their fullest potential.”

KnILE Prep Academy offers full-time, hybrid, and homeschool options. “We are flexible, because we know parents’ schedules are changing too. The hybrid schedule could allow your child’s schedule to match yours.

If your child is experiencing anxiety about returning to school, this is also a great way to ‘start small.’” KnILE serves students in grades 1st-12th and has openings available.

“We want to help your child find their own path,” says Betsy. “Call today to learn more about what sets us apart from other schools.

We want to make sure our school is a good fit for you and your child. If not, we will help you find another option that is best for your child. This past year has impacted so many people. Your child’s education and well-being do not have to suffer any longer.

We are here to help.”

EduCoachNow (ECN), KnILE Center’s tutoring program, is also a great option for students to get a leg up on next school year. Betsy says, “We can spend the summer preparing your child for back to school.

Our trained ECN coaches combine cognitive skills exercises with enhanced organizational, study, and test taking strategies. ECN tutoring sessions are always one-on-one and customized to meet the child’s educational needs. ECN works with students in grades kinder to high school.”

The state of education is unclear at best.

But with Betsy and KnILE on your team, your child will not miss a beat!

Call to set up a consult TODAY to learn more about our services.

Betsy de Vega 281-761-6610 KnILE Center, LLC EduCoachNow KnILE Prep Academy (Main Campus - Inside the Kid’s Resort) 5419 Fm 762 Rd Richmond, TX 77469 www.KnileCenter.com www.upclosemagazine.com

UPCLOSE ~ May 2021 ~ 21

Realigns

Dr. Ward

Your Body to What It’s Designed to Do

The Bonus?

A Healthy Sex Life

by Amy Sharp

L

ast April, right as COVID was really taking its toll, Stephanie Wright scheduled a consult via Zoom with Dr. Julia Ward, founder of Balanced Body Functional Medicine. Stephanie says, “I had low energy...I was really sluggish. I did a detox with Dr. Ward, and she recommended bioidentical hormones. I lost 20 pounds, and I’ve kept it off. I didn’t realize just how bad I felt until I felt better.”

The following month, Stephanie’s husband Craig got COVID19. “It was a bad case,” says Craig. “Stephanie consulted with Dr. Ward. She recommended supplements to get through it, and twice she came to the house to administer a Vitamin C drip with antioxidants. I was convinced. When I got better, I told Dr. Ward that when I was in my 90s, I wanted to be on a cruise ship dancing with my wife.

I asked if she could do that. Dr. Ward said, ‘Oh yeah.

We can do that!’ I did the detox. Then Stephanie and I both did Dr. Ward’s bloodwork, micronutrient, and antigen testing. It turns out, I had a lot of inflammation.

Dr. Ward said it’s what made my COVID so bad. I had to get sick to realize I was sick. Dr. Ward’s nutritionist tweaked our diets based on the tests. I also started bioidentical hormones, the recommended supplements, and her exercise program.

Together, Stephanie and I adopted a healthy lifestyle. We both feel great, and we’re completely off pharmaceutical medications (though Dr. Ward would prescribe them if they were necessary).

I’ve lost 30 pounds, and I no longer have chronic back and neck pain.”

“Dr. Ward realigns your body to what it’s designed to do,” explains Craig. “The huge bonus, the cherry-on-top here, is the newfound frequency and intensity of our sexual interactions.

It’s like we’re teenagers again, and that’s a great way to be when you’re in your 50s!”

The Wrights call Dr. Ward a miracle worker. “Anybody who goes to see her will be shocked after the first blood test. It’s pages and pages long. We never realized just how surface level and superficial routine blood tests are. Honesty, it made us mad at established medicine. We had no idea so much information was even possible.”

“We do recommend Dr. Ward, and really encourage couples who are interested to pursue this journey together. It’s a lifestyle change, but you’ll reap the benefits. Dr. Ward and her staff—Kris, Karen, and Sharon—are deeply compassionate and dedicated professionals. They work hard to keep you comfortable. Do what they say, and you’ll get the results you want!”

a is hip and h s alt on ou y. he latien ybod rewe ur t o e b y

Balanced Body Functional Medicine Julia Ward, M.D. • 281-710-3380 • 3533 Town Center Blvd Ste 200, Sugar Land, TX 77479

www.balancedbodyfunctionalmed.com 22 ~ UPCLOSE ~ May 2021

www.upclosemagazine.com

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

STAYING ACTIVE FOR HER GRANDKIDS

D

by Amy Sharp

ebbie Hrncir has seven grandchildren, ages 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 19. “I love spending time with all of them!” says Debbie. “I’m a hands-on grandma. I like to be down on the floor to play.”

Back in January of 2019, Debbie jumped and lurched to catch one of her grandsons before he ran into the coffee table. “I caught him,” says Debbie. “But in the process, I twisted and hurt my back. I couldn’t get out of bed the next day. I didn’t want to go to the doctor and just get pain meds.

I knew it was important to get my back in alignment. My son-in-law recommended Sugar Land Health Center. I called for an appointment, and they got me in right away.”

Dr. Steve Harris opened Sugar Land Health Center in 1982. In the summer of 2019, he welcomed his son-in-law, Dr. Zack 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.

Like most patients, Debbie had x-rays done at her initial appointment. She says, “The doctors discovered I have scoliosis...which I did not know about. I also have degenerative disc disease in my neck and lower back.

I joked with Dr. Brazzell that maybe it was a good thing my grandson tripped me, because without treatment these conditions would get worse over time! We worked through a customized treatment plan, and now I know I can go back when I need them. It’s important to me because I want to stay active to help with my grandkids. I like that they use gentle impulse instrument adjustments. There is no pain, and I feel so good after...like I just had a massage. About six months ago, I tripped and fell again (caused by another grandkid!). I told Dr. Brazzell that I was surprised I was able to get up and go without a lot

Dr. Steve Harris and the newest member of SLHC, Dr. Zack Brazzell

Follow us! sugarlandhealthcenter @sugarlandhealthcenter DrSteveHarrisDC Check out our new look!

www.sugarlandhealthcenter.com

of pain. He said it was definitely because I’m keeping my back in shape with the follow-up treatment therapy I’m doing!”

“Dr. Harris and Dr. Brazzell are professional, caring, and efficient,” continues Debbie. “They care about me, and the staff at Sugar Land Health Center treats me like family. I’ve told several people about Sugar Land Health Center, including one of my daughters who recently went for her initial consult. I trust Dr. Brazzell and Dr. Harris with my back and my health.”

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: . . . . . . .HRNCIR21UP .........................

Bring this publication to receive the offer.

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

UPCLOSE ~ May 2021 ~ 23

Getting Your

ANNUAL MAMMOGRAM Is Still Important

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HOUSTON METHODIST BREAST CARE CENTER AT SUGAR LAND

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Our Breast Care Center offers:

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We know balancing life may be challenging right now, but getting your annual mammogram is still a priority — especially since early detection saves lives. At Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land, our specialists recommend women get an annual mammogram starting at age 40 — or younger, if you have a family history to help detect changes earlier.

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Early Detection Saves Lives

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• The latest diagnostic technology: 3D mammograms, breast ultrasound and breast MRIs • Board-certified breast imaging radiologists • Acceptance of most major insurance plans • Enhanced safety measures to keep patients safe during the COVID-19 pandemic

Visit houstonmethodist.org/breast-care-sl or call 281.274.7170 to schedule your mammogram today. We do not require a doctor’s order for your annual screening mammogram.