may 2012 - fort bend focus magazine - people • places • happenings

MAY 2012

A Community Treasure for 30 Years

Inside:Deacon’s Dugout Foundation page 35

Focus on People page 56

Senior Living Guide page 62

+ Mother’s Day Gift Guide

The Fort BendBoys ChoirRyan McNulty, Emmanuel Arredondo,Bill Adams and Bryan Pulliam

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62 Senior Living Guide: A Helpful Tool to Help You Navigate the Road to Caring for your Loved OnesAccording to the U.S. Census, the older population will burgeon between the years 2010 and 2030 as the “baby boom” generation reaches age 65. Find the resources you need now and later.

68 8 Clues to a Clutter-Free ClosetFollow some basic closet organizing rules, and your closet will keep you looking good!

70 Mother’s Day Gift GuideDelight your Mom with unique gift ideas. Who knows? You might find a little something for yourself.

F E A T U R E S

26 Love Affair With Violin Wasn’t Always SoSina Thompson doesn’t remember asking to play the violin. Today the six-time grandmother and full-time math and technology teacher is in her 16th season as concertmistress of the Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra.

35 History in the Making Gala: A Huge SuccessThe first event at Constellation Field introduced the new stadium in a big way by raising money for two Fort Bend charities, debuting Deacon’s Dugout Foundation, and of course, with spectacular fireworks.

46 Don’t Judge a Wine By Its ColorPatio season is in full swing, and nothing compliments outdoor relaxation and events like a refreshing glass of wine.

58 Dipped In ChocolatePerfect for Mother’s Day, foods dipped in chocolate take on a new level of fabulousness.

18 Fort Bend Boys Choir:A Treasure of The Community and Beyond With five performing ensembles totaling approximately 200 choristers, the Fort Bend Boys Choir is one the largest boys’ choirs in the world.

C O V E R S T O R Y

M a y 2 0 1 2

The Fort Bend Boys Choir

pg18


ON THE COVER:Ryan McNulty, Emmanuel Arredondo,

Bill Adams and Bryan Pulliam.Photo by Nesossi Studios.

I N E V E R Y I S S U E

M A Y 2 0 1 2

76 Community CalendarFun events the whole family will enjoy.

78 High School Hot ShotClair Daly enjoys making sure everyone has fun.

80 Fort Bend Kids Chalkboard

Special news and achievements from Fort Bend’s youth.

82 Medical FocusMedical news from around the Bend.

90 Business BuzzTap into the world ofbusiness in Fort Bend.

92 Focus Amateur Photo ContestA winning shot by a local photographer.

93 absolutely Delicious! - NEWYour source for places to wine and dine!

94 Focus Favorites Resource GuideLooking for a service provider? Find one here!

96 Living the Sweet LifeWhen a snake comes to the door, there is never a dullmoment.

Meet this month’s recipient on page 79!

Will HardeeHardee Investment GroupPage 22

22

Alisa MurrayAlisa Murray PhotographyPage 96

96

Nick NicholsonEntertainment EditorPage 48

48

Lauren DanteFreelance WriterPage 78

78

Sophia VassiliouSophia DesignsPage 68

68

C O N T R I B U T O R S

Whitney HenslerFreelance WriterPage 60

60

Linda K. EavesFreelance WriterPage 18

18

Stephenie Cox absolutely! Memorial Page 58

58

46

Noel BurkeenAnother Round Wine BarPage 46

Beverly Carter Fort Bend Star Page 56

56

10 Publishers PreviewA few words from our publisher.

22 Focus on FinanceHow to cope if you find yourself suddenly alone.

24 Fort Bend HeadlinersGet the scoop on the latest news and happenings.

28 Seen on the Scene Snapshots from local charitable events.

42 Focus ScrapbookA few snapshots of people, places and happenings

48 Focus Film ReviewNick Nicholson reviews The Three Stooges.

52 Fort Bend New NeighborsMeet Chef Michelle Stalling’s All About Cakes.

56 Focus on PeopleThe Hebert’s Celebrate 50 years with a blast from the past.

60 Focus CaresEd Tye has fond memories of his ESL students and his service with the Literacy Council of Fort Bend.

READERS FEEDBACK

P ublisher’s Preview

Ticket giveaways to area attractions and events.Facebook.com/FortBendFocus

Stay Focused!

Lisa [email protected]@Fortbendfocus.com

Hello Fort Bend Friends,

Michael & Lisa Fredrickson

Thank You!Ladies, Just a quick note to say “Thank you”! The article looks great. There are not enough words to

express my sincere gratitude for your support of Hope for Three and our efforts to raise awareness.

The CDC released new statistics yesterday, reporting that autism prevalence has risen to “1 in 88 children have autism, with 1 in 54 being boys.” Autism is an epidemic.

Thank you again for your generous support. It is making a difference.

Sincerely,Darla Farmer

AWESOME!!! Patti,

Got my copy of the Fort Bend Focus last night at home – all I can say is AWESOME!!! It is better than I could have ever anticipated both the story and the wonderful photography. I hope we will be able to reach out to more families and help them because of the publicity you have given to the conference and Texana’s program. We have already had a couple of people register for the conference.

We have a Board Meeting this morning so I will be showcasing the magazine there.

Thank you, thank you, thank you for working with us and know that this will make a difference in a child’s life.

Tracey Shaw

For Immediate ReleaseThere was such an extraordinary bright light over

the STAR Cinema Grill in Missouri City early the morning of Wednesday, April 11. The 2012 Fort Bend Focus JEWELS began to arrive for a spectacular, one time event. Celebrity photographer Alisa Murray and the staff of Salon Eben would prepare this year’s JEWELS for their photographs, group and individuals, for the Fort Bend Focus magazine’s September issue.

Later that morning, the light from this special aura grew even more dazzling and could be seen all over the county as precious JEWELS from the previous four years began to arrive for a five year anniversary photo session and luncheon! All were dressed in spectacular fashion with dazzling smiles and were warmly greeted by Editor/Coordinator Patti Parish-Kaminski.

For more information on this event scheduled for Thursday, September 20, benefitting CASA de Esperanza, please contact fortbendfocus.com.

In all seriousness, Patti, please thank everyone involved for their hard work, and in speaking to other JEWELS, all of you have honored us and it is a joy to be included in such a wonderful group of JOYOUS EXTRAORDINARY WOMEN ENRICHING LIVES!

Sincerely,Mary Favre

Flowers are blooming, the days are longer and a bit warmer. It’s May and spring is in the air. In May, we are always reminded of our mothers and Mother’s Day. To help you celebrate Mother’s Day, Fort Bend Focus has scoured our local retailers and created wonderful Mother’s Day Gift Guide on page 70 with some fabulous ideas to help you celebrate mom. We have also featured the 30 year anniversary of the Fort Bend Boys Choir and the man responsible for its success, Bill Adams. What dedication to these boys and to a remarkable institution!

Our focus on Senior Living brings to light the many resources available to you for aging family members and our seniors in the area. We value the wisdom and experience they offer to us, and ap-preciate their role in our lives.

The biggest news in Fort Bend last month was undeniably the opening of our new stadium – Con-stellation Field – and it’s Epic Grand Opening Gala. The event was stellar and you can read all about it and see photographs from the red carpet on page 35. The Sugar Land Skeeters opening season is well under way, and the greater Sugar Land area is all a buzz - baseball buzz. Yes, spring is here, we have our own state-of-the-art baseball stadium and our own minor league baseball team. Let’s play ball!


Publishers

Michael FredricksonLisa Fredrickson

Managing editor

Patti Parish-Kaminski

senior account executive

Jessica Kij

account executives

Robyn MillerMary DoetterlStephenie Cox

office Manager

Norma Loredo

contributors

Noel BurkeenBeverly CarterStephenie Cox Lauren Dante

Linda K. EavesMary FavreLiz FurmanWill Hardee

Whitney HenslerAlisa Murray

Nick NicholsonBrenda Perry

Sophia Vassiliou

art director

Grace Belleza

art & Production

consultant

Joey Belleza

graPhic designers

Elizabeth PaceDebi Beauregard

Web designer

Joey Belleza(JOBpagegraphics.com)

PhotograPhers Aiisa Murray Photography

Nesossi Studios

May 2012Vol. 8 No. 7

One year subscription: $25

4655 Techniplex Dr. Suite 400

Stafford, TX 77477

www.fortbendfocus.com

Single copy $2.95

To advertise call 281-690-4242TOLL FREE 1-888-430-7469Direct mailed to subscribers andhigh value homes in Sugar Land,

Richmond, Katy, Missouri City and Fulshear and picked up at demand distribution locations

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The views and opinionsexpressed by our advertisers

and columnists do notnecessarily reflect those of

the publishers and their staff.

No material from this publication may be copied or in any way reproduced without written

permission from the publisher.

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The Beginning

Bill Adams has been in the community since 1975 and considers Texas his home. He grew up in Phoenix and sang in the Phoenix Boys Choir for one year before his voice changed. He fell in love with the sound, and as an adult went on to work with the Phoenix Boys Choir. “The voice of a young boy is fleeting and haunting, lasting only about two or three years,” said the ebullient Adams.

Having a background in child psy-chology, he moved to Houston to work for Big Brothers and Big Sisters. He also worked with the Singing Boys of Houston and served part-time as vocal music minister of his church.

His wife, Becky, was a teacher in Fort Bend ISD, so they moved to the “up and

coming” county of Fort Bend. “We liked the area,” Adams said. This year marks their 35th wedding anniversary as well as FBBC’s 30th year.

At that time, Fort Bend had nothing in the way of a boys’ choir. In 1982, Adams decided to start his own choir and put the word out. Forty-five boys showed up.

“I was sold on the sound of the young

Fort BendBoys Choir

COVER STORY

By Linda K. EavesPhotos by Nesossi Studios

A treasure of the community and beyond

U nder the direction of “Mr. A,” as he is affec-tionately known to the

boys, Bill Adams and his staff have fine-tuned the vocal tal-ent of hundreds of boys enrich-ing both their lives and those of their audiences locally, nation-ally and internationally. With five performing ensembles total-ing approximately 200 choris-ters, the Fort Bend Boys Choir (FBBC) is one the largest boys’ choirs in the world.

boy’s voice. It’s a beautiful sound – unique, high and pure innocence.” Adams said he’s amazed at the dichotomy of 11, 12 and 13-year olds . . . having that boyish impishness and then singing like angels.

Singing and

So Much More

In the Fort Bend Boys Choir, boyish energy is channeled into dedication to excel, team effort, and hard work. The boys rehearse for hours and hours; they attend camp and do recording work. They become close friends and form lifelong friendships. The boys’ choir experience is unique in that there is no second string; they all participate.

Society often tells them that singing is a sissy activity. “We’re here to tell the boys they are not sissies,” Adams said. Singing is a physical activity that involves the use of many muscles for breathing and standing for long periods of time and requires thought processes.

“We never have enough boys,” said Adams. “Boys love to sing. This is the place they can sing unabashed because they’re with other boys who love to sing. It’s a creative outlet for normal, ordinary boys. That has not changed.” His motto: “Boys first, singers second. We bring a ball with us on tours. The boys play kickball in the afternoon, and then sing in the evening.”

FBBC wouldn’t be a success without its many volunteers. Parent volunteer Tour Choirboy Nathan Smith.


Fort BendBoys Choir

APRILApril 27th at 7 pmNational Anthem Performance ~ Constellation Field for Sugar Land Skeeters

MAYMay 6th at 3 pmConcert Series ~ St. Timothy Lutheran Church

May 12, 7:00 pm30th Anniversary Spring Concert ~ Grace Presbyterian Church

May 17, 8:00 pmCarmina Burana with Houston Symphony ~ Jones Hall




Fort Bend Boys ChoirUpcoming 30th Anniversary Performances

Tour Choir – 2012

JUNEJune 3rd at 11 amWorship Service ~ First United Methodist Church - Missouri City

June 10-24 ~ Tour de France

AUGUSTAugust 7-12, TBACamp Zengit Gutenproper ~ The Gordon Ranch

DECEMBERDecember 5, NoonSugar Land Rotary Club Performance ~ SweetwaterCountry Club

December 8, 7:00 pmChristmas Musicale ~ Sugar Land Baptist Church

December 15 & 16, 7:00 pmSugar Land Christmas Celebration ~ Sugar Land Baptist Church

For a complete listing of theFort Bend Boys Choir concert schedule,

visit www.fbbctx.org.

Janis Pulliam is a uniform coordinator for the entire choir, works in the office, participates in fund raisers, and works wherever she is needed. Her 13-year-old son, Bryan, started as a member of the choir 8 years ago in Music Magic and is now in the Tour Choir.

Manners, honesty, and respect of one another are stressed. “Peer pressure is a major force in kid’s lives,” said Janis. “Fort Bend Boys Choir is so much more than singing. The music is great, the vocal training has been wonderful, but having the good, strong role model of Mr. Adams and the other boys has been such a great experience for Bryan.”

Bryan said, “I have had so many memorable experiences with the Fort Bend Boys Choir. The best was the first time I left on summer tour with all of my choir friends. We spent almost two weeks in Michigan sightseeing, performing at concerts, and just having a good time.”

“Mr. Adams teaches us so many things. We receive great vocal training, but he also teaches us about honesty, respect, and responsibility. Mr. Adams has taught us to ‘take off our masks’ and be honest with ourselves and others. The boys in the choir all respect each other, and that’s why we have such good times together. Responsibility is another lesson we learn, like being on time for concerts and performances, learning our music, taking care of our personal items on tour, and helping our choir friends.”

Fort Bend Boys Choir performing at the

2011 Spring Concert at Grace Presbyterian Church.


Bryan’s advice to boys thinking of joining the choir: “Do it! It will be a wonderful experience. You’ll get to do some amazing things and meet new friends that share the same interests.”

Joyful and unique experienceS

The choir has performed for dignitaries such as Pope John Paul II and President George W. Bush and in locations such as Washington, D.C. at the Kennedy Center, in London, Mexico City and in Rome. A life-changing experience for Adams was directing the choir in the Sistine Chapel of Vatican City. Fort Bend Boys Choir was the 25th choir ever allowed to perform there.

The Sistine Chapel had just undergone a three-year project to restore Michelangelo’s paintings, and it was filmed by National Geographic. “The acoustics were wonderful and performing there was a heavenly experience that transcended the verbal. It was a unique experience that no other boy will ever experience,” Adams said.

In addition to performing before three U. S. presidents, the choir has collaborated with many well-known entertainers. The award-winning organization has gained distinction as one of the finest programs of its kind in the nation.

This year for the first time, the choir sang the national anthem at the opening night for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. FBBC performed all 18 nights – 6 live and 12 recorded performances. “It’s

opened so many doors. We’ve gotten lots of e-mails and queries,” said Adams. This summer the choir is looking forward to travelling to France.

coMMuniTy SupporT

in lean TiMeS

As a struggling non-profit, the choir relies on community support through fundraisers. When expenses exceed funds, Adams calls on generous anonymous donors to fill in the gaps. They have always come through for the choir.

Due to the downturn in the economy, FBBC has provided much more scholarship help in the last four years than previously. “We had been frugal over the years preparing for leaner times by saving money. We’ve had to use our savings and money market accounts. Weddings have been down. But lately, the choir has been getting more bookings. This year has been much better, getting

back to the way it used to be.”Expenses include tuition, camps,

touring, and a uniform. Some parents won’t send their boys to audition because of the expenses. Adams emphasizes that scholarships are available to cover the boy’s expenses. “We don’t want to turn any boy down because of money,” he said.

From the angelic voices of the younger boys to the matured voices of the older boys, Fort Bend Boys Choir creates beautiful music for all to enjoy. After 30

FORT BENDBOYS CHOIR NUMBERS

Approximately 4,800 boys have joined the ranks of the FBBC.

There are 200 current choristers.

The choir began with 45 boys in

1982.

This year marks the 30-year anniversary of FBBC.

There are 5 choirs.

2012 is the 1st year to sing the National Anthem at the 80-year anniversary of Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo all 18 nights of the rodeo – 6 nights live, 12 nights DVD shown on large screen.

years and 4,800 boys who have joined the ranks of FBBC, Adams plans to continue his winning formula as artistic director. In the community, he is frequently approached by strangers and told: “We love the boys.”

If you haven’t attended one of their concerts or public appearances, make plans now to experience one of Fort Bend’s finest treasures. For a complete listing of their concert schedule, visit www.fbbctx.org. n FBF

Tour Choirboy Philip Chong.

Tour Choirboy Emmanuel Arredondo.

Tour Choirboy Caeden Holly.

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I t was late afternoon on Friday, February 1, 1963. I was at a classmate’s house celebrating

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BACK PAIN? NECK PAIN?

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FORT BEND

HEADLINERSSend your news via www.FortBendFocus.com. Deadline for submission is on or before the 10th of the month for the next month’s publication. All submissions are subject to the publisher’s approval, editing and space availability.

Fort Bend Junior Service League (FB-JSL) has begun its membership drive for the 2012 – 2013 League year. Provisional membership is available to women ages 23 and older. Women interested in learn-ing more about the League are encour-aged to attend our annual Bring-A- Friend Social at PF Chang’s in Sugar Land on Thursday, May 24th at 6:00 p.m. Two in-formational meetings will also be held on July 12th and August 7th at a location to be announced.

Along with events such as Charity Ball and Sugar Plum Market, FBJSL mem-bers will have the opportunity to provide direct service to the following agencies:

FBJSL Seeking New Members For The

2012-2013 League Year!

FBJSL Members Volunteer at Lunches of Love. Front Row: Mimi Zaybak, Jade Green, Heather Carroll, Savita Rao and Verianese Richard. Back Row: Sheila Cooper, Marilyn Lett-Grant, Kristin Weiss, Raquel Smith and Robin Alston.

Child Advocates of Fort Bend, East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry, Fort Bend Community Partners Rainbow Room, Fort Bend County Women’s Center, Fort Bend Seniors, Houston Museum of Natu-ral Science-Sugar Land, Literacy Council of Fort Bend County, Lunches of Love, Memorial Her-mann Sugar Land and Fort Bend Teen Service League (FBTSL), a men-toring project of FBJSL.

FBJSL is an organi-zation of women com-mitted to promoting vol-unteerism, to developing the potential of women and to improving the Fort Bend County com-munity through the ef-

fective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable as well as providing an atmosphere of friendliness, good will and camaraderie for all mem-bers. For additional information about FBJSL, please visit www.fbjsl.com.

For more information about joining FBJSL, contact the Director of Provision-als, Raquel Smith, at [email protected]. H

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Sina Thompson doesn’t remem-ber asking to

play the violin. Rather, her mother told her she would. That was in sixth grade. Today the six-time grandmother and full-time math and technology teacher is in her 16th season as con-certmistress of the Fort Bend Symphony Or-chestra.

“I love the violin because you can play any genre,” said Thompson. “I’ve always enjoyed playing with other people. It has given me so many opportunities to do fun things.”

Thompson joined the Sugar Land Community Orchestra, as FBSO was originally called, in 1994 after a call for

Love Affair With Violin

Sina Thompson serves as FBSO concertmistress.

Wasn’t Always So

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musicians went out. One year later, she auditioned and won an appointment to the prestigious role of con-certmistress.

What concertgoers see on stage versus what Thompson does off stage is probably equivalent to one line of a musical score. Yes, she tunes the or-chestra and performs violin solos, but these

are a fraction of her contributions.“The concertmistress role is the most

important role one can assume in an or-chestra second only to the conductor,” said Music Director Dr. Héctor Agüero.

Not only is Thompson supposed to ful-fill the conductor role if Agüero is unable,

but she leads the string section, working with him, to solve issues that might arise during concert preparation. “Sina has the final say on all aspects of bowings and any-thing string specific,” said Agüero.

Bowing is the art and science of using the bow for artistic and musical impact. While there are logical ways to move the bows, the direction the bow is played can also affect the sound.

“If I use an up-bow it creates a cre-scendo,” explains Thompson. “If there are an odd number of pickup notes, we want to play the downbeat of the first full measure as a down-bow. There’s also the visual element.”

Although Thompson would love to sit with all principal string players and go through the bowing, as an all-volunteer orchestra, there just isn’t time. Instead, she discusses and sets the bowings in rehearsals.

For Agüero, the musical partnership he shares with Thompson makes his work easier. “Sina is very good at anticipating what I’m about to tell the strings and or-chestra,” he said.

In addition to her musical talent, Thompson possesses a charming and steady personality that makes her a natu-ral leader and endears her to others.

“I affectionately call her ‘oh, wise one,’” said FBSO Board President Amy Billasch. “Because Sina has been with the orchestra for 17 years and served as president for eight of them, I know she has the histori-cal and leadership background to give me sound guidance.”

Both Billasch and Agüero describe Thompson as the backbone of the Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra.

During FBSO’s search for a music direc-tor in 2006-07, Thompson was a vital mem-ber of the search committee helping inter-view candidates and soliciting feedback from members about potential conductors. Over the years, she has attended nearly every audition by prospective members, as well as the chair challenges between musi-cians for their placement within a section. Thompson also began FBSO’s Young Artist Concerto Competition, now in its 12th year, to encourage student musicians.

Thompson will make her final appear-ance of the orchestra’s 20th anniversary season during a concert of Broadway tunes on May 20th at the Stafford Centre. For tick-ets, visit fbso.org. H

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Go to www.FortBendFocus.comSeen on the Scene

Friday, February 17, 2012 • The Fluor Building

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Nora Sims & Joni Stinger

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Howard Spencer & Maggie Moo Mike Reichek, Dorothy Nall & Phil Klosowsky

Cliff Vacek & Bob Hebert

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Cindy Deis & Kenny WilliamsChris Breaux & Leslie Wood

Scott McClintic & Larry DeMarco

Jan Michael Jenkins & John Robson

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Gladys Brumfield & Jim Kij

Steve Griffin, Jim Shaw & Robert Kern

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Seen on the Scene

Saturday, March 3, 2012 • Sugar Land Marriott Town Square

Benefitting Lunches of LoveFBJSL Charity Ball

Gary & Cathy Dante

PJ Meyers & Roxanne D’Ascenzo

Anna Kelley with Phillip & Beth Butler

Ann Smith & Lisa FredricksonPatti & Tim Kaminski

Nancy & Joe Zimmerman

Kristin Moreno & Melissa Salies

Keely & Brian KniplingJohn & Connie Esposito

Chi & Bryan Duvan

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Maria & Derrick HuntBrittany Basilone & Iain Page

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Jessica DeMarr & Jessica Kij

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Bowling TournamentTo Raise Money For

Local Charity

Fort Bend Regional CouncilOn Substance Abuse, Inc.Aims To Raise Money For Drug-Free Programs With

Bowling Tournament

Fort Bend Regional Council on Sub-stance Abuse, Inc. (FBRC) is announc-ing it’s eight annual Fort Bend Corpo-rate Challenge bowling tournament to be held on Saturday, May 19th. For this year’s tournament, sponsored by Union Pacific Railroad Company, FBRC invites area businesses, organi-zations and individuals to gather a team and join in the fun.

The tournament will be held at AMF Stafford Lanes located at 4919 South Main from 12 to 3 p.m. Individ-ual Team Sponsorships start at $500, which includes two games for a four member team and lunch. Corporate Sponsorship levels start at $1000.

So, whether you have bowled all your life or you plan to role your first strike, this is a great event for a very important cause. Proceeds from the Challenge support FBRC’s programs, including Summer Explosion youth camp, Leadership High School, Red Ribbon Week events and other ben-eficial programs that keep Fort Bend County kids and their families safe and drug-free.

This year’s theme will be the Ken-tucky Derby, so get your team together and come Bowl for the Roses.

For more information about reg-istration or FBRC, visit at www.fort-bendcouncil.org, or call Irene Wisner at 281-207-2409. H

Photos by Brenda Perry & Liz Furman

Seen on the Scene

Saturday, March 3, 2012 • Safari Texas Ranch Texas Ballroom

Benefiting Rosenberg-Richmond Helping HandsHearts and Hands Gala

Rick & Mary Lane

Tommy Larson & Marie Lane

Lee Evans & Tom Marshall with Sharon Roberts & Jared Marshall

Gene Hamilton, Nancy Caminiti, Brian Michna & Beth Thurman

Jill & Troy NehlsLisa & Patrick Kelley

Liz Lane & Steve LarsonSusan & David Miller

Terry & Chris Siebenaler

Carol & Gary Snowbarger

Jim Richards with Laura Reynolds & Kris Allfrey

Nancy & Jim Brown

Tom & Toni LanePatsy & Mandi Martinez

Kathy & Lonnie Meadows

Kevin & Sherrill Garland

Bob & Lucia Alanis

Dan & Pat Rega


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Seen on the Scene

Thursday, April 5, 2012 • Classic Chevrolet

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Classic Chevrolet’s 2nd Annual Chili Challenge

Swatson & Kristen Kij

William Allen & Danny Cornelius

Chrissy Nolan, Leslie Wood & Brenda Pullen

Liam & Stewart McMillan

Dario Bestegui & Taryn BuddChris Thompson, Don Kerstetter & Trevor Nehls

Jessica Kij & Kinky Friedman

Jan Jenkins & John Robson Susan & David MillerDeacon Jones & Brenda Robinson

Harold Mathis, Lisa Regan & Randle Thomas

Blake Greer & Gary Gillen

Janie Head & Liz Moreno

Anthony Francis & Jess Stuart

Jennifer Gillen, Willie Drabek & Janice Gillen

John Casias, Mary & Abel Medina with Dan Moreno

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Saturday, April 7, 2012 • The George Ranch

Richmond Rotary Club

The 13th Annual Cowboys in the Caribbean Fish Fry


T he first event at Constellation Field, History in the Making, The Epic Grand Opening Gala,

was a huge success thanks to the hard work of the Sugar Land Heritage Foun-dation, the Sugar Land Skeeters, and Gala Chair Nancy Olson.

Held on Saturday, April 14th, the evening was attended by approximately 750 guests and began with a cocktail party in the stadium where guests were able to meet the 2012 Skeeters’ players for the first time. The event moved down to the field for dinner and a special cere-mony honoring Sugar Land’s rich histo-

Skeeters Youth Foundation Renamed Deacon’s Dugout Foundation

ry. The ceremony showcased the City’s humble beginnings as a company town to Sugar Land today which features the brand new $35 million stadium. The stadium opened on April 26th with the Skeeters opening day game.

A special an-nouncement await-ed guests as the Skeeters new foun-dation, formerly known as the Skeet-ers Youth Foun-dation, created to promote youth edu-cation and healthy activities for the culturally, racially,

and economically diverse populations of those underserved in Fort Bend County, was renamed Deacon’s Dugout Founda-tion. The foundation is named in honor of Deacon Jones, long-time Sugar Land resi-dent, former Major League Player and scout, and now, Assistant to the President of the Skeeters. Jones, or more commonly known as “The Deacon,” was instrumen-tal in bringing the owners of the Skeeters to Sugar Land.

“To have the foundation named af-ter me is an honor,” said Deacon Jones. “The Deacon’s Dugout Foundation will ensure the youth of Fort Bend County will not be forgotten. I am proud to leave this legacy to them.”

The evening then followed with an auction that raised money for both the Sugar Land Heritage Foundation and Deacon’s Dugout Foundation. Auction items included season tickets, game-worn opening day jerseys, and more.

Deacon Jones

The evening concluded with a fireworks show in celebration of the grand open-ing gala.

“Our goal was to introduce the stadi-um to the community in a big way while benefiting two important Fort Bend charities,” said Gala Chair Nancy Ol-son. “I think we accomplished our goal.” The event raised well over $100,000 for the Sugar Land Heritage Foundation and Deacon’s Dugout Foundation.

For more information about the Sug-ar Land Skeeters or Constellation Field, visit www.sugarlandskeeters.com. H


HISTORYIN THE MAKING

The Epic Grand Opening Gala


APRIL 14, 2012CONSTELLATION FIELD



Health Center Expands Volunteer Program

Fort Bend Family Health Center (FBFHC) is growing and expanding. In addition to the renovation of its Richmond Center and the addition of maternity services at its Missouri City Center, FBFHC has recently expanded its volunteer program.

Prospective volunteers now have a wide array of opportunities to help Fort Bend Family Health Center continue its mission of providing quality health care to the Fort Bend community. Vol-unteers can support patients by sending appointment reminders, providing as-sistance with forms, translating to pa-tients, and reading to pediatric patients in the lobby. Volunteers interested in having a career in health care also have an opportunity to shadow a doctor or dentist as part of a mentoring program.

Fort Bend Family Health Center has locations in Richmond, Rosenberg, Brookshire, Stafford, Missouri City, El Campo and Wharton. For more infor-mation about these and other volunteer opportunities, contact Community Rela-tions at (281) 633-3169. H



If you are driving around Fort Bend County, you might have noticed a lot of blue in the landscape. Child Advocates of Fort Bend’s Friends Council and Ex-change Club of Sugar Land joined forces to blanket the County in blue in April for Child Abuse Prevention Month. On Friday, March 30 Child Advocates of Fort Bend kicked off April National Child Abuse Prevention Month with their annual Light of Hope Ceremony with help from Sugar Land Exchange Club, Friends of Child Advocates of Fort Bend and Cameron and Nicole Hill.

Sugar Land Mayor Pro Tem Jacquie Chaumette was the emcee for the cer-emony which featured a live butterfly release with a corresponding poem titled “On the Wings of Hope” read by Child Advocates of Fort Bend Executive Di-rector Ruthanne Mefford. Judge Ronald Pope of the 328th Judicial District made the opening remarks, and several inspi-rational songs were performed by local recording artist Debbie Fancher. The historical story of the meaning of the blue ribbon was recited by Child Advocates of Fort Bend Board President Kurt Kirchof.

Child Advocates of Fort Bend’s ex-panded blue ribbon quilt was unveiled during the event. The quilt, spread over the steps of Sugar Land City Hall, was made by volunteers, supporters, mem-bers of the community, Girl Scouts and children served by CAFB. More than 350 area Girl Scouts participated in the ceremony by presenting squares to be added to the quilt. The event closed with squeals of delight as the Girl Scouts re-leased live butterflies thanks to support from Cameron and Nicole Hill.

Child Advocates of Fort Bend is a non-profit agency dedicated to ending child abuse by providing a voice, heal-ing the hurt, and breaking the cycle of child abuse in Fort Bend County. Through its Court Appointed Special Advocates Program (CASATM), Chil-dren’s Advocacy Center (CAC) and more than 200 trained community vol-unteer advocates, Child Advocates im-proves the lives of more than 400 chil-dren each month and has served more than 10,500 children since opening its doors in 1991. Agency partner for 2012 is the Rose-Rich Auto Mile.

Girl Scouts added to Child Advocates of Fort Bend’s blue ribbon quilt during the Light of Hope Ceremony. For more information on Child Advocates of Fort Bend or to become a volunteer, go to www.cafb.org or call 281-344-5100. Photo by Larry Pullen.

Joining Forces to Fight Child Abuse:Child Advocates of Fort Bend Hosts

Annual Light of Hope Ceremony

For more information on how you can become a voice for children and get involved with Child Advocates of Fort Bend, contact Casey Davis at 281-344-5172 or [email protected] or log onto www.cafb.org.

The agency’s annual gala and auc-tion raises much needed funds to sup-port its programs for abused and ne-glected children. This year’s Candy Land Gala will be held May 5th, at the Sugar Land Marriott Town Square. To attend the Gala, become a sponsor or for more information, visit http://www.cafb.org/Events/Gala-for-the-Children/ or contact Lisa Moore at 281-344-5108 or [email protected]. H


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Texas Community Referral Network proudly presents the 4th Annual Sugar Land BASH on May 19th in Sugar Land’s Town Square Plaza from 2 – 7 pm. The Sugar Land BASH is a collaborated effort with the businesses partners of TCRN-Sugar Land and will benefit the Snow-drop Foundation, which provides funding for pediatric cancer research at Texas Children’s Cancer Center and scholar-ships for college bound pediatric cancer patients and childhood cancer survivors. All proceeds will go to pediatric cancer patients and survivors in Sugar Land, Missouri City, Richmond, Rosenberg and Stafford, so the funds raised stay in the local community. Serving once again as the official Sugar Land BASH emcee is Michael Garfield, the High Tech Texan, from the popular talk radio show on the 950AM Radio MOJO.

Mark down May 19th in your calen-dar for a family fun event and great en-tertainment. There will be balloon art-ists, face painting, live demonstrations, concessions, plenty of outdoor games for the kids, live music and more! This year’s Grand Prize in the Sugar Land BASH raffle is a 7 night Carnival Cruise in a balcony cabin with no blackout dates and includes all taxes and ship board gratui-ties. The winner of the cruise can travel anywhere Carnival cruises! There will also be several other great prizes to win in the raffle furnished by TCRN-Sugar Land businesses. The see more details, log on to www.SugarLandBASH.org.

Raffle tickets are only $10 each and all proceeds from the event will benefit the Snowdrop Foundation assisting children in the Fort Bend County area. The raffle tickets can be purchased at six locations

Save the Date for Family Funand Support a Worthy Cause

conveniently located around the Sugar Land area: Stadia Sports Grill, Natural Pawz, First Tire and Automotive (Great-wood location), Pier 36 Seafood Restau-rant, Milagro Hair Salon and RE/MAX Fine Properties. Visit www.TCRN-Sug-arLand.com for the addresses and contact information of the six authorized locations selling Sugar Land BASH raffle tickets.

Another fun way to support this great cause is by attending the Annual Sugar Land CRAWL, which precedes the BASH. Scheduled for Friday evening, May 18th, the CRAWL features a pro-gressive dinner event with a cocktail hour at Stadia Sports Grill followed by a 4-course dinner at Perry’s Steakhouse. Proceeds from the CRAWL also benefit Snowdrop Foundation. For more infor-mation regarding the CRAWL or to pur-chase a CRAWL ticket, email [email protected]. Tickets are limited in quantity and available for a limited time. H

Golf for Greater Houston, a tourna-ment headed up by Fluor employees through the Fluor Cares initiative, raised $200,000 to benefit four local nonprofit or-ganizations, including Hope for Three, a

Pictured are (Front Row) Glenda Kirshbaum, Director of Community Development, Casa de Esper-anza; Kathleen Foster, Director, Casa de Esperanza; Laura Lavigne, Director, ARC of Fort Bend; John Schanck, Fluor, Mechanical Engineering, GFGH Chairman; Dewana Hill, Secretary, Hope for Three; Darla Farmer, President, Hope for Three; Dr. Danielle Madera, Therapist, Children’s Assessment Center (CAC); Jennifer Gibson, Development Grants Coordinator, CAC and Diane Vines, Therapist, CAC; (Back Row) Ed Smith, President Governing Board, Casa de Esperanza; Jason Kreuiter, Fluor, SR. HR Specialist, GFGH Co-Chairperson; Josh Gann, Fluor, Piping Material Engineering, GFGH Co-Chairperson; Barbara Jones, Fluor, SR. Mgr. Community & Public Affairs and Kishia Haberle, Fluor, GFGH Co-Chairperson. Photo by Mary Favre and Brenda Perry.

A 200,000 Swing for Golf for Greater Houston

Fort Bend-based nonprofit whose mission is to expand autism awareness, empower and educate families, improve early diag-nosis and connect families to the care and support they deserve. Additional ben-

efactors included ARC of Fort Bend, Casa de Esperanza and Children’s Assessment Center.

“The funds awarded to Hope for Three will make such an impact to the many families in our community with children affected by autism,” said Darla Farmer, President of Hope for Three. “Our goal is to provide help and create hope, and now, with Fluor’s help, we can do just that!”

Fluor’s John Schanck. Chair of GFGH 2012, commented “The great success of this years event is a testament to our sponsors generosity and to our Fluor employees hard work and dedication. In the first five years of our tournament, we have raised over half a million dollars for charities in the greater Houston area and we have made a lasting and recognizable impact on our community.”

The CDC recently released revised prevalence figures which estimate that one in 88 children is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder, or ASD, by age 8 – a rate that has risen far above the 2006 estimate of 1 in 110. H


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3rd Annual Fort Bend Empty Bowls benefiting East Fort Bend Human Need Ministry

Vickie Coates & Connie Esposito.

Catherine & Caroline Kubala.

Alysse Day.

The show will be held on Thursday, May 17th at Sugar Creek Country

Club. This year’s title is “Traffic” and design interpretations will be following the theme. The public is invited, free of charge, from 1 to 4 pm. Pictured are co-chairs Bonnie Steidley and Ruth

Heikkila.

Sugar Creek Garden Club’s Standard Flower Show

Festivities included fun games and prizes, delicious cuisine, dancing, and a prize for the best hat. The social/civic organization and the members visit area facilities to spread cheer and help to brighten the days of the mentally challenged, elderly and sick. Those interested in becoming a ladybug should contact Vicki Latham at [email protected]. Pictured are (Back row) Karen Miles, Era Turner, Joanne Fisher, Darlene Gallow, Gloria Foley, Bukky Rojvgbokah and Karen Reeder. (Front row) Vicki Latham, Kathryn DeMoss and Patsy Laurel.

Ladybugs of Fort Bend County Big Hat Garden Party and Fundraiser Taylor McFarland.



281.204.8088 • www.frogathome.com/windows*Offer applies to window treatments purchased by 3/31/12. Not combinable with other offers.

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Read a review or join us on……. 281-342-4766 (IRON)

Girls’ Night Out Diva Exchange at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land

Lisa Pugh, Betsy Burgess & Karen Chitty-Boe.

Nancy Colmanares, Joy Dowell & Anne Budill.

Lisa Fredrickson, Ann Kingrey, Courtney Diepraam, Lisa Pugh, Cheryl Bertrand & Karen Mawyer.

Kristen & Jessica Kij with Jeanne Garland.

Pictured are (back row) Denise Stahmer, Lisa Karr, Katherine Scarmardo, Douglas Plaeger, Karyn Jolly, Paige Kinkade, Macanda Block, Sherrie Mullikin and Karen Morris; (front row) Caroline Christopher, Rhonda

Ramon, Angela deLeon and Sommer LaShomb.

MedCare Milestones 2nd Annual Spring Bling

FotoFest 2012Exhibition at Tradition Bank

Grand Parkway

Exhibiting photographer Debi Beauregard and Ana Villaronga-Roman. Photo by Fatima Donaldson.



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June 11 – 15 K-4th gradeJune 18 – 22 5-8th gradeJune 25 – 29 5-8th gradeJuly 9 – 13 9-12th gradeJuly 16 – 20 K-4th gradeJuly 23 – 27 5-8th gradeJuly 30 – Aug. 3 9-12th gradeAug. 6 – 10 5-8th grade

Summer Acting Camps

Half-Day CampGrades K-4th

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Each camp is unique and many campers attend several sessions each Summer!

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Join us as we create our own play – from script to

stage – and perform for family and friends on Fridays!

www.FoglesFutureStars.com5503 FM 359, Ste. D, Richmond, TX 77406

832-651-8857

Ask about our After-School Programs for Fall!

The Walden SchoolYou have high expectations... and so do we.

Now Accepting Registration for FallInfants through Pre-Kindergarten

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P atio season is in full swing, and nothing compliments outdoor re-laxation and events like a nice cool

glass of wine. For those wine lovers who enjoy the multitude of white wines, the quest is easy, but perhaps you are craving a new adventure in the world of cool summer wines. If a big red is your normal indulgence, then your pal-ate might register a white wine as liquid air with a hint of citrus. Never fear, the best of both worlds is waiting to unveil a cornucopia of new flavors, refresh you in the sun, and do it with enough backbone to wrestle in the same weight class as your standard bottle of red wine.

The answer, Rosé! With the flavor and dryness of a red wine but the body of a white wine!

Yes my fellow vinofiles, Rosé is a wonderful combination of both red and white wines. Rosé originates from red grapes and is made in several different ways. The red grape varieties used typi-cally stem from what is growing in the region of origin: Grenache, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet, Shiraz, and on and on.

One of the ways Rosé is made is a method called “bleed-off.” This happens when a winemaker wants to intensify the tannins in a red wine and a portion of the juice that has been fermenting with the red grape skins is removed early. This, now dark pink, juice is rich, warm, and dense with all of the yummy flavor of the red grape skins, yet light enough in body to go down like a cool breeze in the shade. A more traditional way to make Rosé is to fill massive bins with tons of red grapes so much that they crush them-selves with their own weight. The grape juice slowly trickles down through the red skins to an opening in the bottom of the bin, and then is gathered drop by drop.

Rosé because these serious wine grad-uates feel like carrying around a glass of the “pink stuff” puts them back in with the Freshman Class.

My friends, I would ask you to re-member that wine is a part of the good life and meant to break the levity of the day; a fun relaxation that fills your sens-es with great enjoyment. Cast aside the cover of the book, and discover a new world inside that brings a great-er existence to your life. The Texas heat is upon us, and Rosé can be the cool shade in which we all find sum-mertime bliss. H

Another Round Wine Bar

Don’t Judge A Wine By Its Color

The challenge for Rosé is that its color can give consumers mixed sig-nals. Since it is “red skin-kissed” pink, it is commonly mistaken as something other than what it truly is. Sweet wine drinkers often categorize it with White Zinfandel, a Blush wine that has a high amount of residual sugars. One sip of Rosé and the sweet wine lover can get a horrible first impression never to return and discover the treasures that await them once their palate has climbed a few steps on the staircase of wine evo-lution.

Red wine drinkers generally like more than the flavor and body of their big red, and they sometimes display their degree of wine drinking like a diploma or college ring. This, too, presents a challenge for

“If food is the body of good living, wine is its soul.” Clifton Fadiman


By Noel Burkeen


You always tell your children thatthe sky’s the limit. Now show them.

Give the gift of flight.

Anson Aviation will help you discover a brand new way of life. We’re based at the award-winning Sugar Land Regional Airport. Call 281-242-2555 or visit ansonair.com.

2223 FM 1092Missouri City, Texas 77459

281-403-4994www.hbctx.org

Dr. Charles A. Murphy, Sr.Pastor

SUNDAYSunday School ................. 9:30amSunday AM Worship ..... 10:45amBible Classes ................... 6:05 pmSunday PM Worship ..... 7:00 pm

WEDNESDAYBible Study ...................... 7:00pmAwana Bible Clubs .......... 7:00pm

Schedule of Services

a place to call home

Heritage Baptist Church

Invest in your smile... the dividends are enormous!

(281) 302-62843681 Hwy 6 @ Settlers Way, Sugar Land, Texas 77478

[email protected]

Fax: 281-302-6213Laurena Moore Powell, DDS

& Marty M. Powell, DDS

Evening & Saturday Appointments

Nick Nicholson is the Film and Entertainment Critic for CNN Radio, the Fort Bend Star, Fort Bend Focus, Pearland Focus as well as Focus on Women. In addition, his reviews can be seen and heard in numerous other print/media outlets in Texas and Oklahoma. Mr. Nicholson is in great demand as a speaker to both public and civic organizations on the subject of film and the entertainment industry. He is the co-founder of the Houston Film Critics Society and is currently the President of the organization.

Left on the doorstep of an orphanage run by nuns, newborns Moe, Larry and Curly grow up finger-poking,

nyuk-nyuk-nyuking and woo-woo-wooing their way to uncharted levels of knuckle-headed misadventure. Now, out to save their childhood home, only The Three Stooges could become embroiled in an odd-ball murder plot while stumbling into star-ring roles in a phenomenally successful TV reality show.

What is the greatest motion picture comedy team of all time? Some would award that title to The Marx Brothers, others would favor Abbott and Costello, or maybe Laurel and Hardy. But for legions of fans – including children, their parents, and their parents’ parents – The Three Stooges are the classic comedy act. Larry, Curly and Moe’s raucous physical antics – pure of heart, but dim of wit – are the last word in timeless fun. Even if that word is “Nyaaaaaahhhhhhh!”

The all-new motion picture, The Three Stooges, is a contemporary take on a trio of time-honored boneheads. The film rec-reates the classic and iconic Stooge sound effects including “boinks,” finger snaps,

new arrivals are anything but heavenly. Now, years later, their Three Stooges

have left the nuns bruised, battered and bewildered. Even worse, it looks like the orphanage will be forced to close its doors due to financial difficulties. But Larry, Curly and Moe, employed as the foster home’s inept maintenance men, are deter-mined to come to the rescue. Their quest: raise $830,000 in just 30 days, or risk los-ing the only home they’ve ever known.

Out of the orphanage for the first time in their lives and making their way through the Big City streets, the bumbling buffoons encounter a hot tamale named Lydia, who offers the Stooges a chance at some easy money; all they have to do is put her poor, suffering husband out of his misery to col-lect a payday hefty enough to save the or-

and palm claps, haircuts and other Stooge-isms all the while interweaving them with modern-day attitudes, situations and pop culture references.

In the film, we meet the Stooges as new-born “angels from heaven.” That’s how the nuns characterize the three toddlers left at their orphanage. Never mind that one infant is sporting a bowl-shaped haircut, the second has two shocks of bushy hair sprouting from a bald head, and the third rocks a retro-crew-cut. But when one of the nuns, Sister Mary-Mengele, receives a fierce eye-poke from Moe, which catapults her into the next county, they suspect the

phanage. Despite their relentless clueless-ness, the Stooges smell something fishy in Lydia’s scheme, especially when they find out who the mark is – their boyhood friend Teddy, a former orphan and now Lydia’s unsuspecting spouse. As they try and save the day, Larry, Curly and Moe engage in plenty of their trademark antics, includ-ing a saturating situation involving bun-dles of wet diapers in a hospital nursery; more hallmark hilarity at a private, black-tie party at a splashy mansion; and Moe’s newfound stardom on reality television.

Starring as the troika of knuckleheads are Emmy and Tony Award-winner Sean

Hayes, who portrays the balding, sour-faced, bushy-haired Larry; Will Sasso as the rotund funnyman Curly, whose trade-mark “nyuk-nyuk-nyuk” usually invites a physical outburst from older brother, Moe; and Chris Diamantopoulos as Moe, the dark-haired leader of the farcical trio known for his distinctive bowl-style hair-cut and intolerant ire. The filmmakers surround the Stooges with an impressive ensemble including Jane Lynch, Sofía Vergara, Jennifer Hudson, Craig Bierko – and Larry David as a nun named Sis-ter Mary-Mengele. “Sister Mary-Mengele. That name is what really attracted me to the role,” offers David. “For years I said to myself, ‘if only I could play a character whose last name was Mengele. Or Goeb-bels. Or Goering.’”

Kate Upton, Jane Lynch, Jennifer Hudson and Larry David as the ever-patient and understanding nuns of Sisters of Mercy Orphanage.

By Nick Nicholson


The Three StoogesStarring: Chris Diamantopoulis, Sean Hayes & Will SassoDirector: Bobby & Peter FarrellyCompany: FoxNow Showing: In Local Area TheatresMPAA Rating: PGGrade: A-

I must admit that I have always been a huge fan of the Stooges. I still watch them today, and when I heard this feature was in the works, I was a bit skeptical of how suc-cessful the film could be. The Three Stooges aren’t going to set the world on fire, but for all fans of the comedy trio, this film is sure to put a big smile on your face and a great many chuckles into the air. Slapstick com-edy is a true art form and this film does more than just honor the classic trio. It is sure to re-energize the interest in The Stooges and the art of slap stick comedy.

The Stooges, says co-writer/director Pe-ter Farrelly, “are three of the funniest guys who ever lived. We wanted to honor them by doing this movie.”

“You can literally draw a parallel from The Three Stooges to everything that’s going on now in comedy,” adds Will Sasso. “I don’t know what physical com-edy would be like without them. If The Stooges just happened to come along now, I think they’d do well.” H

Photo Credit: Peter Iovino. TM and © Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation.

Will Sasso as Curly, Chris Diamantopoulos as Moe and Sean Hayes as Larry.

2625 Town Center Blvd. | Sugar Land, TX 77479 | 281.980.2070www.interiorsmarkettx.com

Mother’s Day Event | MAY 3-6 • Gift of one Trollbead* with the purchase of any three Trollbeads

• Receive a sterling silver bracelet with the purchase of a decorative clasp*Free bead of equal or lesser value.

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Fort Bend’s Finest Equestrian Center• Summer Camps beginning June• 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Monday - Friday• Youths aged 6 - 16 years old• Students grouped according to ability & age• Horse Show exhibition and awards for all!• Now taking reservations

Camp Dates

June 4 - 8June 18 - 22July 9 - 13July 23 - 27July 30 - Aug 3Aug 13 - 17

8255 Camp Sienna TrailMissouri City, TX 77459


Fort Bend Hope is a group of local churches, pastors and businesses who are united in reaching their community TOGETHER with acts of compassion. It is the organization’s desire to partner with other organizations and business-es to effect change in their cities and to reach across ethnic and denomination-al boundaries, and to build bridges of caring among churches, schools, busi-ness and civic organizations.

On Friday, May 4th, Fort Bend Hope will be hosting their first First Ladies of Fort Bend Luncheon and Fashion Show benefitting the Rosen-berg and Richmond Fire Departments. Ladies will be featured with firefighters from the Rosenberg and Richmond Fire Stations in a fashion show produced by the Pennywise Resale Centers.

Fort Bend Hope is looking for organ-izations and churches to help by pur-chasing a ticket or sponsoring a table at this event. The following quotation comes from The Fire Service Warrior, From We Hold These Truths to be Self-Evident, written December 27, 2010:

“If you do not want to risk your life for your neighbors please turn in your badge, your pager, your gear…”

Will you join Fort Bend Hope in giv-ing back to those who put themselves on the line for us every day? Your par-ticipation enables us to renovate these fire stations which will allow them to become a safer and more comfortable environment for our first responders who spend much of their time away from home.

For more information about Fort Bend Hope or their upcoming event, call 281-342-3801 or visit www.fort-bendhope.com. H

Fort Bend Hope Presents First Ladies

of Fort Bend Luncheon and Fashion Show

Benefiting the Richmond and Rosenberg

Fire DepartmentFirst Responders

Front row: Justin White, Patrick Neal, Jason Johns, Joy Dowell, Rev. Deb Prihoda and Thomas Brown. Back row: Eloise Lucas, Karen Chitty-Boe and Cheryl Bertrand.

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Pediatric Therapy & Nursing Services... •Physical Therapy •Occupational Therapy •Speech Therapy •Play Therapy•Private Duty Nursing•Counseling & Behavioral Health

For more information or to schedule an evaluation call... 713-995-9292Outpatient Center Locations

Stafford ~ 713-773-5100 • Northshore ~ 713-773-5110 Spring ~ 713-773-5120 • Pasadena ~ 713-773-5100

(coming in 2013)

Home-Based ServicesTherapy Nursing

713-779-9300 713-995-9292Future Location ~ Katy

Check us out on...www.medcarepediatrics.blogspot.com

MedCare is now offering a salaried option to our full time home health thera-pists that includes a company car!

Interested in a career with MedCare?We’re the ‘top’ choice in pediatric healthcare.

Send your resume to:[email protected]

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A Career with MedCareOur Team Earns Great benefits

and Countless smiles!Flexible Schedules • Multiple Locations

Growth Potential • Dynamic Team CultureAdministrative & Clinical positions availableCall Angela deLeon at 713-995-9292


Fort Bend ToyotaBlood Drive

Fort Bend Toyota is sponsoring a blood drive benefiting The Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center on Friday, May 11th from 1 - 7 pm at 20465 Southwest Freeway (Hwy 59 at 99), Richmond, Texas. To schedule an appointment, visit www.giveblood.org and log on to Digital Donor. Please use sponsor code B240 or contact Nick Landoski at 281.341.5900.

If this time or location is not conven-ient, please call Nick, and he will help make arrangements for you. H

Boots & BadgesGala 2012 to Benefit

Emergency Responders in Fort Bend County

Behind The Badge Charities, in association with Fort Bend Toyota, proudly presents Boots & Badges Gala 2012. Polish your tin star and dust off your boots for a grand ole time in the Old West on Friday, May 18th at 6:00 pm at the Stafford Centre. Behind The Badge Charities benefits all emergency responders in Fort Bend County with scholarships and emergency assistance grants and also supports youth pro-grams throughout the area. H

Fort Bend Toyota is proud to serve as the pre-senting sponsor for the Boots & Badges Gala 2012. Pictured are charity President Robert Williams, Fort Bend Toyota Fleet Manager Nick Landoski, General Manager Mike Shaw, and charity Vice President Marshall Whichard.

EYE TRENDS @ Town SquareThe Address for Exclusive Eyewear

We accept most medical & vision insurances

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Therapeutic Optometrists and Optometric Glaucoma SpecialistsDr. George N. Zaibaq & Associates


If you like reading our magazines, you’ll LOVE

working here.

Join Our Team!Call today at 280-690-4242

or send resume [email protected]

Kurt M. Andreason, Attorney-at-LawBoard Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specializationin Estate Planning, Probate Law andCommercial Real Estate.

26 years experience in Texas

4840 Sweetwater Blvd, Suite B (at rear), Sugar Land, TX 77479281-265-1561 www.andreasonlawfirm.com

The Andreason Law FirmNow you don’t have to drive to Houston for experienced Estate Planning.

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Gallery of Salons

Al e x Burton Salons 2745 D Town Center Blvd. Suite 112Sugar Land, Texas 77479

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All About Cakes, Sugar Land’s sweetest secret, has now been unveiled. Specializing in custom cake artistry as well as custom and traditionally designed cupcakes, this is the place where anything is possible. We love a challenge. Not only do we focus on the design of the cake, but also the taste. That’s what you call a winning combination!

With over 25 years of experience, we focus on providing the highest level of customer service and satisfaction.

Stop in and take a moment to explore. Once we’ve gotten your wheels turning and creative juices flowing, select from our flavor and filling menu that’s sure to awaken your senses. If you happen to not find what you are looking for; whether design, flavor or style, let us know, and we will be happy to fulfill your custom request.

All About Cakes: Sugar Land’s Sweetest Secret is Out!

We’re experts at custom art work duplications and original creations. We are also the masterminds behind our newest creation “intoxicakes!” These are gourmet miniature cupcakes soaked in premium liquors overnight. They are actual cupcake shots. For those less adventurous, stop in and try our “sophisticakes.” They are infused with either Merlot, Chardonnay, Champagne or Moscato. If you’re just in the mood for some down home goodness, stop in and try out our house flavors: Caramel

Mocha Chocolate Chip, Banana Foster, Key-Lime, Orange Dreamsicle, Red Velvet or Butter Pecan just to name a few.

To see what all the fuss is about, call 832-532-7034, visit www.All-AboutCakes.com or stop by 13134 Dairy Ash-ford, Suite 300, Sugar Land. H

Chef Michelle Stalling is enjoying sweet success at All About Cakes.


Quilts ForKids Workshop

The Richmond/Sugar Land Chap-ter of Quilts for Kids needs you! On Wednesday, May 23rd from 9 am - 3 pm, help us bring a bit of comfort, color and happiness to children with cancer, with life threatening illness, and chil-dren of abuse at our workshop at the H-E-B Community Room on Hwy 6 in Sugar Land. Volunteers are needed to cut fabric, iron, sew, and quilt, and pat-terns, fabric and instruction are sup-plied. All quilts will be donated locally and monetary and 100% cotton fabric donations welcomed. Please RSVP to [email protected]. H

Cheryl DiCamillo, Director of Quilts for Kids, Richmond/Sugar Land Chapter.



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Emilee Martin.

Three Cheers for the Red, White and Moo:

Student’s Cow has Chance to Earn $20,000 for Terry High School

Terry High School’s Emilee Martin

is one of only nine finalists in the na-tion in Lucerne’s seventh annual “The Art of Dairy” Contest. She now has a chance at the grand prize: $20,000 for her school, $5,000 for herself and $5,000 for the her teacher.

This is the second consecutive year that a Terry artist has made the finals. Last year, Terry’s Fariha Rashid came in first place and won $5,000 for the school, $2,500 for herself and $2,500 for Joan Batts, her art teacher.

As a finalist, Martin was cho-sen to paint a life-sized acrylic cow in this year’s theme “Red, White and Moo.” Martin, a so-phomore, chose to design her entry to reflect how Ameri-can’s fuel their ingenuity. One side of the cow looks like the out-side of a giant machine and the oppo-site side shows how the gears in our country work to produce fuel, in this case, milk.

Martin’s teacher, Mark Hesterlee, received $250 to buy art supplies to help create the sculpture.

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When the cow arrived, Martin said she knew she had a long way to go to make her original drawing become a re-ality on the cow. She began by sanding, smoothing and washing the cow.

“There were so many nooks, crannies and crevices – it was overwhelming,” Marin said.

She traced her original drawing on the cow, painstakingly painting the background using acrylic paints. Using tape, she marked off sections of the cow and painted in the details.

The cow is now on display at the Randall’s grocery store in Pecan Grove where it will be for the next few weeks.

For the first time ever, the public will vote for the winner via online and mobile voting. Online polls opened on April 16th at www.artofdairy.com or on the Safeway Facebook page, and voting ends May 15th.

The grand prize is $20,000 for school, $5,000 for the winning student and $5,000 for the designated teacher. One student will be come in First, earning $5,000 for their school, $2,500 for the student and $2,500 for their art teach-er. One student will win Honorable Mention and receive $1,000 and $1,000 for his or her teacher. The remaining six finalists will receive a $500 savings bond.

Martin is the daughter of David and Kendy Martin of Richmond. H

Original story by Terry Journalism teacher Denise Adams.Photos by Terry Journalism student Allie Holbert.

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$5 OFF3291 E. Broadway St.Pearland, TX 77581

281-485-4552Mon-Sat 10am - 7pm

6302 Hwy 6 South, Ste. MMissouri City, TX 77459

281-499-0936Mon-Sat 10am - 7pm

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Fort Bend County Judge Bob Hebert and wife Pat recently celebrated 50 years of putting up with each other. They asked the attendees to dress in their 60’s best. Some complied. One woman said she no longer had the two babies she carried on each hip during the 60’s.

The Heberts got married after a brief courtship and

have spent the next 50 years getting to know each

other. The cake was a replica of their original one.Bo Randall took the instructions to dress from

the 60s to heart. She is pictured with Fort Bend Business Journal editor Sharon Wallingford.

Former Superintendent James and Bobbie

Woodfin – just an old hippie couple!

Bob Wilson and County Clerk Dianne Wilson

with old friends Betty and Lee Adams.

Rosenberg Mayor Vincent Morales and

Regina Morales with Sugar Land EDC.

The Bonos, Pat and Bennie.

Former FBISD board president Lisa Rickert with attorney Lynn and Rod Humphries.

Engineer Jon Strange, school volunteer Helen Cummings, who has a school named her and Sandy Brown.

Focus on People

The Hebert’s 50 th

Mike O’Connell with Lane and Vickie Ward.

Larry and Lucia Street with Sugar

Land Council member Jacquie Chaumette.

County Attorney Roy Cordes and Gene Reed.

By Bev Carter and Doyle Reynolds


Pat and her original wedding dress. Pat wore pants, tee shirt and sneakers to the party because that’s how she spent the 60s!

By Bev Carter and Doyle Reynolds

Anniversary Party – 50 Years of Friends!

Friends David Chaumette

and John Hancock.

Pat Hebert with daughter Patsy McKnight and great

granddaughter Kate Lynne Dixon, who had on the best boots!

Justice of the

Peace Jim Richards

and his wife Laura.

Anthony and Belinda Frances.Retired Rosenberg Mayor Joe Gurecky and wife Doris with friend Joyce Lolley.

My friend Doyle Reynolds’ wife Maris was in Hawaii so Doyle acted as my reporter and wrote names down as I took pictures. It’s his fault if they are

misspelled. Doesn’t he look like Elvis?Old friends Debbie

and Wayne Penalber.

Jane and Missouri City Mayor Allen Owen.

Bob Crossar, Martha and Lou Peyton with Neil Banfield.

Joe Allen had two dates: his

mom (90!) Sarah Lewis and his wife,

Helen.

Richmond Mayor Hilmar and his lovely wife Evalyn.

Mike Phillips and Laura Wendt.



People seeking cosmetic or reconstructive dental work should do research before making a decision in order to ensure proper care. As ADA recognized specialists, Prosthodontists are qualified to offer services in state-of-the-art procedures and techniques, such as: cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, complete and partial dentures, replacing lost or loose teeth, jaw joint problems (TMJ), traumatic injuries, snoring and sleep disorders and oral cancer reconstruction.

Achieve the Smile!Ultimate

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stuaRt Rimes, DDs, msCrowns, Implants, CosmetIC, reConstruCtIve DentIstry

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before after

Replacing missing teeth in one day! Restore your smile with cosmetic dentistry!

before after

Implant Dentures in one day!

T his Mother’s Day, show your love and appreciation with an elegant gift from the heart that you made with your hands. Foods dipped in chocolate take

on a new level of fabulousness and are an excellent expression of affection. White, milk and dark chocolate can give different flavor combinations with the same foods. The possibilities are endless ... fruit, cookies, chips, nuts or candies. Melt your favorite chocolate morsels, and try some of these ideas:

SPICY GINGER COOKIES + DARK CHOCOLATE

These flavorful cookies take on a new level of awe when you give them a dunk in silky dark chocolate — all for about 100 calories. No need for guilt, thanks to this duo’s health perks: dark chocolate is antioxidant-rich, heart-healthy, and a known mood-booster, and ginger has the power to soothe your tummy.

CANDIED ORANGE PEEL + SEMISWEET CHOCOLATE

The mellowness of semisweet choco-late balances the acidity of the orange peel.

ESPRESSO BEANS + DARK CHOCOLATE

This caffeine-packed duo is loaded with pleasantly bitter flavors.

HAZELNUTS + MILK CHOCOLATE

This smooth combo is loaded with monounsaturated fatty acids, which help you lose belly fat.

MARSHMALLOWS + MILK CHOCOLATE

Think a s’more without the graham cracker. Slide marshmallows onto wooden skewers and dip.

PRETZELS + WHITE CHOCOLATE

This sweet and salty treat is a unique flavor combination that brings two con-trasting flavor profiles together. H

DIPPED IN

TIP ON CHOCOLATE DIPPINGMelt chopped chocolate

or morsels in a glass bowl in the microwave for

one-minute incrementsstirring in between

until smooth.

By Stephenie Cox


Early Voting April 30th to May 8th Election Day May 12th

Jenny Bailey For FBISD School Board of Trustee

Position 6

Accountability and Transparency... These two principles are what will guide my decisions as a Board of Trustee. The residents of this district – parents, teachers, students, taxpayers, and employees – deserve no less from their trustees. We need to do things differently. As your elected representative I will offer fresh perspectives with innovative ideas focused on the classroom and on district operations. To learn more about me and my priorities go to www.jennybaileyfbisd.com. Together we can make a difference.

POLITICAL ADVERTISING PAID FOR BY JENNY BAILEY FOR FBISD SCHOOL BOARD, JAMES BAILEY, TREASURER

Guitar • Piano/Piano Prep • Voice • ViolinMusic Preparation for Young Children 4-7

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DANCE STUDIO

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Highway 6 • Missouri City

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Call or see website for schedule

Tutu Train Express

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June 19th – 23rd

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Ed Tye was reading the newspaper when he saw it: an ad asking for volunteers to teach English, no for-

eign language knowledge necessary. Tye, a dentist who had previously lived in Germa-ny, France and Vietnam, was teaching at dental school at the time, and had “no prob-lem” teaching or speaking in front of others.

“I had a lot of free time, and I don’t do well with free time so I looked into the pro-gram,” he said. “It became an important part of my life.”

After completing a training program, Tye was certified as a volunteer in March of 1991 and began volunteering three hours a week. Initially the ESL classes, which are run by the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County, were held in different buildings around the area, including a commu-nity college, a health center, and a building behind a church. Seven years after Tye began volunteering, the program got its own building which Tye called a “big step forward.”

Now retired, Tye teaches classes every Monday, and says he has “developed close relationships” within the program. “I get more than I give,” says Tye, who often tries to recruit people to the program handing out flyers to people he meets who are illiterate, and talking up the classes at his weekly bridge game.

FORT BEND

Focus CareS

Ed Tye: Lending a Hand for Literacy

Although Tye teaches students with varying levels of ability, ranging from those who are almost completely illiterate to those who have Master’s degrees from their native countries and are looking to become more conversational, he says the motive behind taking the class is always the same. “The one word that comes up more than anything else is opportunity,” he said.

After over 20 years of teaching, some of Tye’s fondest memories come from outside the classroom: the year his class took him salsa dancing for his birthday, the field trip to the dog race track, and eating dinner at his students’ houses, where they taught

him how to cook traditional foods like plantains. Tye, an army veteran, says he’s “happy to see people who

want to work to get ahead and make the country a better place. It’s very rewarding when you can say that you helped them along the way,” he said.

For more information regarding the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County, please visit www.ftbendliteracy.org/ or call 281-240-8181. For additional volunteer opportunities in Fort Bend County, call Volunteer Fort Bend at 281-340-1919 or visit www.VolunteerFortBend.org. H

Ed Tye

By Whitney Hensler


Benefiting

W I N A C A R N I VA LC R U I S E F O R T W O !PLUS OTHER GREAT ITEMS!Purchase $10 Raffle Tickets

at any of the following locations: Sat, May 19, 20122pm- 7pmSugar LandTown Square PlazaProvide College Scholarships for Young Cancer Survivors in Sugar Land, Missouri City, Richmond, Rosenberg & Sta�ord

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The 4th Annual

Stadia Sports Grill • Natural Pawz • Milago Hair SalonFirst Tire & Automotive (Greatwood Location )Pier 36 Seafood • RE/MAX Fine Properties

Visit TCRN-SugarLand.com for business location info

Senior Living guideAdvertorial


May is Stroke Awareness Month and HealthSouth Sugar Land Rehabilita-

tion Hospital is shedding light on the potential exponential growth of Stroke sufferers and survivors.

According to the U.S. Census, the older population will burgeon be-tween the years 2010 and 2030 as the “baby boom” generation reach-es age 65. At the same time, one of the most frequently occurring con-ditions in older persons happens

to be hypertension (41 percent), a leading indicator for stroke.

Family members need to know not only the warning signs of stroke, but the recovery options as well.

For stroke survivors, Health-South Sugar Land Rehabilitation Hospital offers a unique combina-tion of both traditional and tech-nological therapeutic advances to provide individualized stroke re-covery plans based on specific pa-

Aging Population MeansStroke Numbers Could Rise:Rehabilitation Is KeyIn Recovery

tient needs. Family members and caregivers should do their own re-search, and ask the following ques-tions when looking at rehabilita-tion options following stroke:

• Does the organization use a “team approach” as the model for rehabilitation?

• Is there a rehabilitation spe-cialist leading the team?

• Are educational groups and seminars provided?

• How accessible is staff? • How many hours of therapy

are provided each day? • How many patients return

home - instead of going to nursing homes?

• How often does the doctor visit patients?

• What is the average length of stay?

• Is there a case manager who works with the family?

• Are there programs that con-centrate on activities of daily living?

• What about vocational training? • How extensive is your cognitive

rehabilitation program?At HealthSouth Sugar Land Re-

habilitation Hospital, they provide an average of three hours of ther-apy a day, five out of seven days a week depending on the patient’s level. Using a team approach, the hospital has a physician on site who makes daily rounds. The aver-age length of stay for a stroke pa-tient is 14 days with 85% or more of patients being discharged to home.

In addition, HealthSouth Sugar Land Rehabilitation Hospital of-fers new technology-based thera-py utilizing specialized computer equipment like the auto ambulator, and upper extremity therapy inter-ventions like the bioness, dynamic wrist hand splinting stations and gait assessment training systems.

While the incidents of stroke may be on the rise, HealthSouth is working hard to make sure those who experience a stroke get the

Senior Living guide Advertorial


At HealthSouth Sugar Land

Rehabilitation Hospital, we help

stroke survivors and their families

overcome the many challenges they

face through focused stroke rehabilitation

programs. Experienced therapists guide

patients in physical and cognitive therapies

to improve vital life skills like eating, dressing

and cooking, getting patients ready to return

home. We also help prevent future strokes,

educating on the importance of managing

risk factors and knowing the warning signs.

Discover the healing power of stroke

rehabilitation.

1325 Highway 6 • Sugar Land, TX 77478281 276-7574

www.healthsouthsugarland.com

A Higher Level of Care

MAY IS STROKE AWARENESS MONTH

©2012:HealthSouth Corporation:521098

therapy they need to return home and maintain an independent life-style.

HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hos-pital of Sugar Land is a 50 bed pri-vate inpatient rehabilitation hos-pital that provides a higher level of rehabilitative care to patients who are recovering from stroke and other neurological disorders, brain and spinal cord injury, am-putations, orthopedic, cardiac and pulmonary conditions. Accredited by The Joint Commission, the hos-pital is located at 1325 Highway 6 (next to Lifetime Fitness) and can be found on the Web at www.healthsouthsugarland.com.

HealthSouth is the nation’s larg-est provider of inpatient rehabilita-tive healthcare services. Operating in 26 states across the country and in Puerto Rico, HealthSouth serves patients through its network of inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, long-term acute care hospitals, outpatient rehabilitation satellites, and home health agencies. Health-South strives to be the nation’s pre-eminent provider of inpatient reha-bilitative healthcare services and can be found on the Web at www.healthsouthsugarland.com. H



Cash Alternatives:Playing It Safe, and Smart, In Uncertain

Financial Times Cash is king, as the old saying goes.

And that adage certainly seems relevant today, considering the roller coaster rides the markets have been on lately. But holding cash is never free, as it historical-ly loses value after considering taxes and inflation. This is especially true when cash yields are very low, as they are to-day. Below are a few alternatives to cash that offer higher yields with a relatively low degree of risk.

TIPSTreasury inflation-protected securities

(TIPS) are a special subset of Treasuries that are backed by the US government and include inflation protection. Both the interest payments and principal of these securities adjust to changes in inflation.

Municipal BondsMunicipal bonds are issued by govern-

ment entities, such as counties or states. They are backed by either the local tax base or the revenue generated from a public project. Municipal bond interest is tax free for federal tax purposes. Also, some bonds issued by states with an in-come tax exclude interest from state in-come tax. To minimize the risk of future inflation, only consider bonds that will mature in one-two years.

Corporate BondsCorporate bonds are issued by individ-

ual companies and, therefore, have credit risk because the bankruptcy of an issuing company would likely result in the loss of principal. Similar to corporate bonds, you should only consider securities with short maturities (one-two years) and high-quality issuers (i.e. GE, Microsoft, etc.).

Without a doubt, all investors should have some allocation to no-risk, liquid, cash-type investments. It’s only prudent when uncertainty is high and the future is cloudy.

WJ Interests is a fee-only financial planning and investment management firm in Sugar Land. For more informa-tion, please contact [email protected] or 281-634-9400. H

Providing fee-only services

to individuals, families and businesses

since 1996.

(281) 634-9400www.wjinterests.com

WJIad_4.75x4.75.indd 1 3/7/08 12:01:06 PM



Seniors Helping Seniors in home ser-vices is an exceptional program of car-ing and care. It is a very unique pro-gram which matches seniors who want to help with seniors who are looking for a little help. The service is unique be-cause providers and receivers both ben-efit. Senior receivers are able to stay in their home and live their lives with independence and dignity, plus they get the companionship of someone who un-derstands them.

The providers offer many services including light housekeeping, laundry, errand services, pet care, mobility as-sistance, leisure activities, transporta-

Welcome to Seniors Helping Seniors in Fort Bend

tion, doctor’s appointments, and most importantly, companionship. Our inno-vative program creates the support you need from people who will understand you the most. Everyone who works with us has a strong interest in helping oth-ers.

As an innovative, intra-generational companion and home help service ex-clusively for seniors, we provide:

• An experienced and credible re-source of help for older adults who want to stay in their own homes.

• Full range of home care, companion and home maintenance support servic-es from seniors who enjoy helping.

• Reasonable hourly rates for se-niors who want services and reason-able hourly wages to seniors who pro-vide them.

You may be looking for help for your-self or someone you love. We can pro-vide as much or as little support as you need. Seniors Helping Seniors in home services is the place to call for your se-nior’s personal care when you can’t be there.

For more information, contact Mike Alexander, Director/Owner, at 281-261-8107, fax 832-451-6394 or email at [email protected]. H

In-home servicefor SENIORSby Seniors

281.261.8107 office • 832.451.6394 faxMike Alexander

[email protected]

• Companionship• Light Housekeeping• Meal Preparation• Transportation• Doctor Appointments• Shopping

• Yard Work• House Maintenance and Small Repairs• Overnight Stays (24-hour care)

• Mobility Assistance• Pet Care

Our helpers are available any day, any hour of the week. We can help each person stay independent and stay at home by providing essential services including:



Varicose & Spider Veins Solved!Leg pains and heaviness gone immediately •

Walk in and walk out. No Downtime •Gentle procedure. Virtually pain free •

Covered By Medicare & Private InsurancePromotes healing of painful leg ulcers •

Improves dark skin around ankles •

Call Today For YourComplimentary Consultation

281-346-30734690 Sweetwater Blvd., Ste. 200 Sugar Land, Texas 77479

Additional locations in Bellaire and Kingwoodwww.hamiltonvein.com

Look Better, Feel Better

Four Not-So-Obvious SignsVenous Insufficiency is

Causing Your Leg Problems

Most people associate “having a vein problem” with bulg-ing varicose veins and zig-zaggy spider veins. But, there are less obvious symptoms and conditions including restless legs, night cramps, ankle discoloration (“brown ankles”), and ankle ulcers that often go undiagnosed or are treated improperly or not at all because venous insufficiency is not considered as a possible source of the problem.

Restless legs is mainly characterized by the irresistible urge to move the legs, accompanied by unusual or unpleas-ant sensations, such as creeping, pulling, and tugging. Nighttime cramps (“charley horses”) are sudden spasms or tightening of the calf muscles, thigh or foot. Both tend to strike just as you are dozing off or just waking up.

When venous insufficiency – the backward flow of blood through the veins – is left unchecked, pressure within the vein walls can build to a point where red blood cells come apart and the iron in the hemoglobin “stains” the delicate, thinner skin in the ankle area, causing it to turn brown or red. Left unchecked, the area becomes itchy, dry and prone to infection, which leads to ulcer formation. Unfortunately, it is often not until venous insufficiency has progressed to this stage that it is finally diagnosed.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms described above, a simple ultrasound of your legs can determine if ve-nous insufficiency is present or not. Today’s highly efficient, minimally invasive procedures target the insufficiency at its source to immediately relieve you of your symptoms and restore vein health. For more information, contact Ham-ilton Vein Center at 281.346.3073 or visit www.hamilton-vein.com. H

Local Resident Recognizedfor Helping to Meet the Needsof Growing Senior Population

Demetrius Flenaugh of Comfort Keepers® recently earned the designation of Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) from the Society of Certified Senior Advisors, an international organization that trains professionals to meet the changing needs of the growing se-nior population. Flenaugh received the CSA certification through extensive training regarding the health, financial and social needs of senior citizens.

“Seniors have more complicated needs than any other age group, and the CSA certification and training process does an excellent job recognizing the health, financial and social needs of this age group. Comfort Keepers Franchising, Inc. (CKFI) encour-ages individual owners to become CSAs to ensure that they stay abreast of these issues with ongoing education, training, support and communication to those of us dedicated to serving seniors,” said TJ Carter, human resource manager for CKFI and a CSA.

Flenaugh is the owner of Sugar Land Comfort Keepers, an international franchise that provides in-home care services such as Companionship, Personal Care, Alzheimer’s Care, Stroke Re-covery, Fall Risk Reduction, Light Housekeeping and incidental transportation.

The need for personal caregivers throughout the United States is greater today than at any other point in history. Currently, there are more than 34 million Americans over the age of 65, and this number is expected to double in the next 20 years. Many of these seniors need assistance with the activities of daily living.

“With more people living longer, we are seeing changes in how seniors function in our society. Comfort Keepers offer a wide range of options to Southwest Houston families by offering servic-es customized to an individual’s needs for a fraction of long term care costs,” said Flenaugh.

For more information about Comfort Keepers, call (281) 340-2078, or visit www.comfortkeepers.com/sugarland. H



F r e e d o mT E R R A C E A T F I R S T C O L O N Y

Life can be a wonderful adventure at any age, especially when you have the freedom to make your own decisions about where and how to live it. Brookdale communities are designed for those who appreciate extraordinary independence, with a carefree lifestyle.

To learn more about our exceptional community, call or visit today.

The Greatest Thing About HavingA Choice Is The Freedom to make it.

20406-ROP02-0412-GB

THE TERRACE AT FIRST COLONYIndependent Living

16900 Lexington BoulevardSugar Land, Texas 77479

(866) 675-1461www.brookdaleliving.comYour story continues here...

Silverado Hospicein Houston is Focused

on Living All of Lifeto its Fullest

Hospice is a program of care that helps patients and their families at the end of life. One approach practiced by Silverado Hospice of Houston places fo-cus on the holistic care of their patients. They address terminally ill patient’s needs and aim to relieve both physical and emotional pain. Comfort for physi-cal symptoms like pain, anxiety, psy-chological and spiritual concerns, and financial difficulties faced by patients and their families at the end of life can all be aided by the right hospice care.

Silverado Hospice takes a team ap-proach to care utilizing Registered Nurses, Nurses Aides, Spiritual Coun-selors, Social Services Providers and Physicians. Focusing on the quality of life, Silverado also uses music and pet therapy to comfort their patients. Uti-lizing the expertise of massage thera-pists and dieticians, they can provide the highest quality of life possible for those in the final days.

While all hospices can provide help for those with terminal illness like can-cer or organ failure, Silverado can pro-vide additional care for patients with Alzheimer’s and other memory-impair-ing illnesses. At Silverado Hospice in Houston, “We focus on living all of life to its fullest.”

For more information on Silverado Hospice, visit www.silveradohospice.com. H

Please see ad on page 64.

Heart

w w w. C o m f o r t K e e p e r s . C o m / s u g a r L a n dEach office independently owned and operated. • © 2012 CK Franchising, Inc.

We help seniors live happy, healthy lives in the comfort of their own homes.

14090 SW Freeway, Suite 300 Sugar Land,TX 77478

Compassionate In-Home Care, Delivered From The

(281) 340-2078

Follow us at: www.facebook.com/cksugarlandtx

HOME FEATUREBy Sophia Vassiliou

4 MAKE A NOVELTY SECTIONDon’t put all your special clothes away. Sort pieces that are not

your basics but ones that add flair to your grab-and-go garments. When is the last time you wore the satin jacket or metal-lic skirt? Hang these fun pieces in an area of your closet so you will remember you own them. Pair with your favorite jeans or informal tee for a new look.

5 ARRANGE FOLDED ITEMSClothing that will stretch

out of shape can be folded and placed on shelves. When or-ganizing folded clothing, place heavier items at the bottom of the pile and lighter ones at the top. Arrange garments by func-tion in stacks; workout tops, business tops, sleeveless tops together. Display colors – white

to nude, bright colors to black.

6 ACCESSORIES ARE IMPORTANTKeep your accessories neat, tidy, and visible. Store belts, bags,

ties, scarves, and other accessories in plain sight on hooks or racks which can be attached to the inside of your closet door. Display your accessories so you can see them. Consider a matching set of baskets or drawer storage cubes to

hold accessories. Now, instead of wast-ing five minutes searching for a belt in the mess, you can spend the time decid-ing what outfit to wear with it!

7 STORING SHOES SYSTEMChoose between a shoe rack on the floor, a hanging shoe organizer,

see-through plastic boxes, cubby box, or original shoe boxes with photographs stapled to them to identify the boxes’ contents. Place shoes you don’t wear fre-quently labeled on boxes on a high shelf, in another closet, or under your bed.

8 VALET ASSISTANCEWhat to wear? Choose your clothes the night before. Whether it is your

basic daily wear or a suit, use an over the door valet hook to hang your outfit. Dis-playing your choice makes dressing easy.

TIP: Getting dressed is easier if you be-gin from the bottom up, starting with pants, skirt or shoe. Fashion expert Rawlins Gillil-and says, “The waist down is the pedestal, the waist up is the vase. A good closet is like a well-planned kitchen, where it’s a ‘look you cook’ rather than a meal.”

Products suggestions can be found at Target, Ikea, The Container Store, or even the Dollar Store. Another great resource is organize.com. For more decorating tips, visit www. sophiadesigns.com.

T his can be the time of year when you may be anticipating travel over the summer months. So why not organize your closet now? These sim-

ple tips will get you organized for the summer. Save time by knowing what is in your closet, and save mon-ey by not buying what you already may have!

1 EDIT YOUR WARDROBETake a look at your clothes and as-sess what you wear most, least,

or not at all. Donate clothing you haven’t worn in a year or more, as well as anything that is a sentimental piece, or no longer fits. If an item is damaged, toss it out. Let seasonality and frequency of use guide you in determining what to keep in the closet and what to stow elsewhere. Store in garment bags, canvas containers, or plastic bins and label each.

2 COLOR BLOCKING Organize hanging garments by type and

color. Blouses, can be sort-ed first by sleeve length and then by shade. Do you have many pairs of jeans or black pants? Flag the side of hang-ers with a label describing the garment. Hang all suits and skirts the same way. By keeping like with like, options are clear at a glance.

3 HANG WITH EASEHaving hangers in just one style and color immediately gives your closet

a more orderly appearance. Choose wood-en, plastic or slimline hangers. The flocked, slim-line designs hold clothing in place and save closet space. There's also accessory bars for organizing belts, scarves and ties.

8CLUES TO AClutter Free Closet

Follow some basic closet organizing rules and your closet will keep you looking good!

A shelf divider will keep your closet organized and neat looking.



Contact Terese Peabody512-628-8532 office512-699-7711 cell866-894-3488 toll freewww.tpeabody.com | [email protected]

Located in Rockport, Texas on beautiful Copano Bay, this 6.27 acre property boasts an (approx.) 520 ft. waterfront. The (approx.) 5500 sq. ft. home has 4 bedrooms and 4 baths with an attached garage and a 4000 sq.ft. shop. A must see! By appointment only. $1,710,000.

RelaxingWaterfront Living

http://www.PrepaidFunerals.Texas.gov

Got Tickets?

Facebook.com/FortBendFocus

Ticket giveaways to area attractions and events.

Join us on Facebook to WIN!

“Like” Us Today!

Seven Fort Bend ISD teachers are recipients of 2012 Fund for Teachers grant awards for professional develop-ment projects they designed and sub-mitted for funding. Fund for Teachers awards fellowships for self-designed, professional growth opportunities for PreK to 12th grade teachers who rec-ognize the value of inquiry, the power of knowledge, and their ability to make a difference.

Earning individual grant awards were Naomi Brown and Lily Ann Graff-Archuleta. A team grant was presented to teachers Brooke Wilson, April Davis, Kelly Caldwell, Destiny Parker and Tawanna Evans.

Naomi Brown, GT Mentorship in-structor, was awarded $5,000 to pursue her proposed fellowship project: Cycle from “Secret Annex” in Amsterdam to Germany’s Bergen Belsen Concentration camp documenting the legacy of Anne Frank and human rights awareness.

All seven teachers will complete their projects this summer and then re-turn to school in the fall to share their new-found knowledge with students and their peers through classroom ac-tivities and workshops. H



Seven 2012 Fundfor Teachers Fellows

named in Fort Bend ISD

Naomi Brown, 2012 Fund for Teachers Fellow is pictured with Jeannette Spain, Director of Gifted/Talented and Academy Programs.

MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL Show her your love with our featured sterling silver Lagos bracelet with triple “X” caviar design. Limited quantity at a special price of $295. Open Tuesday – Friday, 10 am to 6 pm and Saturday, 10 am to 3 pm. J Loggins Jewelers, 14015 Southwest Fwy. in Sugar Land. Call 281-242-2900; www.jloggins.com.

things we

FUN FOR MOM!The Camaro isn’t just a performance car, but an extraordinary presence in a new age of precision. The all new Camaro is efficient and technologically savvy- 21st century on every level. Classic Chevrolet of Sugar Land, 13115 SW Fwy @ Hwy 90A. Call 281-491-9000; classicchevysugarland.com.

YOUNGER LOOKING EYES? IT’S IN THE BAG! Discover the Neocutis Eye Intervention System today at Sugar Land Plastic Surgery! This transforming eye duo is formulated with powerful PSP® proteins to help erase wrinkles, puffiness and under eye darkness. Sugar Land Plastic Surgery. Call 281-980-8000; www.MyBodySurgeon.com.

EMPOWER MOM THIS MOTHER’S DAYAs a woman, are you ready to feel empowered through complete health and vitality? Purchase I am Woman: Journeys to Health, Happiness, and Harmony for just $16.95 at Dr. Shel Wellness and Medical Spa, 1437 Highway 6, Suite 100 in Sugar Land or online at www.drshel.com. Call 281-313-7435.

THICKER, FULLER HAIR IS YOURSReduce hair loss by 33% to keep the hair you have longer – with our 97% naturally derived Invati™ system. Salon Eben & Day Spa, 15510 Lexington Blvd., Ste. G, Sugar Land. Call 281-980-5160; www.Salonebendayspa.com.


DISCOVERY FLIGHT WITH ANSON AVIATIONA $250 value starting at $120! The package includes one hour of flying time with one of our certificated flight instructors in a new aircraft from Anson Aviation’s modern fleet. You will take off with your instructor from Sugar Land’s convenient Regional Airport and fly the airplane yourself! Call 281-242-2555; www.ansonair.com.

TIMELESS EYEWEARStop by our optical boutique to view new spring collections including Fendi, Prada, Gold & Wood and more! Make an appointment today with one of our therapeutic optometrists. Most insurances accepted and gift cards available to make the perfect gift. Eye Trends at Town Square, 16200 City Walk, Sugar Land.Call 281-265-2000; www.drzaibaq.com.

THE DESIGN SOURCEStarting from scratch or wanting a “Home Makeover?” The Design Source can take you from bland to beautiful. Their fabulous team specializes in taking interior spaces to another level and transforming them into your dream home with a cost-effective plan that saves time and money. Visit them at 3644 Highway 6 South, Sugar Land. Call 281-242-3336; www.dessource.com.

THIS MOTHER’S DAY, GIVE MOM WHAT SHE REALLY DESERVESEndorsed by Oprah, Agraria Perfumed Oils “scent your rooms without burning, plugging in or spraying anything. Just add the reeds to the perfumed oils and inhale.” Purchase the Santa Barbara PetiteEssence™ Collection at Interiors Market, located at 2625 Town Center Blvd., Sugar Land. Call 281-980-2070; www.interiorsmarkettx.com.LUSH LASHES

FOR MOM!LATISSE® solution is a prescription treatment for hypotrichosis used to grow eyelashes, make them longer, thicker and darker. Eyelash hypotrichosis is another name for having inadequate or not enough eyelashes. Timeless Plastic Surgery, 1327 Lake Pointe Parkway #300, Sugar Land. Call 281-242-TIME (8463);www.TimelessPlasticSurgery.com.

THE GIFT OF BEAUTIFUL SKINGive your loved one the gift of beautiful, glowing skin! The Clarisonic brush uses patented sonic frequency to clean, soften and smooth the skin. Sugar Land Face and Body Plastic Surgery, 16525 Lexington Blvd. Suite #150 in Sugar Land. Call 281-313-0555; www.BeautyBecomesYou.com.


things we

BEAUTIFUL SKIN REVEALEDTake 20% Off on Obagi Products for your Home Treatment Regimen. Forever Young Skin Care by Linda, Gallery of Salons, 11333 Fountain Lake Dr., Stafford. Call 713-269-9955; lindasforeveryoung.com.

A SWEET SURPRISEWhat’s Sweeter than a sweet surprise from All About Cakes? Your mom of course! This Mothers Day give your mom custom designed gourmet cupcakes made special for her from All About Cakes designed by Chef Michelle. Call now to order! Visit them at 13134 Dairy Ashford, Suite 300, Sugar Land. Call 832-532-7034; www.All-AboutCakes.com.

PICK A GARDEN GUY GIFT CERTIFICATE FOR MOTHER’S DAYMake someone’s landscaping dreams come true. Gift certificates starting in amounts as small as $150. Visit www.garden-guy.com or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GardenGuyHouston.

KEEP MOM COOL!Keep Mom “cool” in one of many selections at Texas Direct Auto! Located at 12053 SW Freeway, Stafford. Call 281-499-8200; www.TexasDirectAuto.com.

FOOTLOOSE & FANCY FREEGive Mom the gift of bling this Mother’s Day! Yellow Box Flip Flops are comfortable and stylish! Open Monday thru Saturday from 10 am – 7 pm. Visit L&M Trading, 6302 Highway 6 in Missouri City. Call 281-499-0936; www.lmtradingus.com.



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Presales begin April 28th for Waterside at Riverstone, one of three new neighborhoods opening in the Fort Bend com-munity this spring.

The enclave will feature 18 homesites, with most border-ing a lake or central park. Fedrick, Harris Estate Homes is the exclusive builder with designs from its Royal Villa series of floor plans ranging in size from 3,600 to more than 6,000 square feet. The homes will feature tiled roofs and stucco, stone and brick exteriors. Prices will start in the upper $600,000s with a 5,500-square-foot model opening in August.

Sales have already begun in Avalon at Riverstone, a gat-ed neighborhood that has homesites situated between three lakes, Alcorn Bayou and walking trails. Taylor Morrison is the builder for the neighborhood, which has acreage for 300 homes. Base pricing begins in the $270,000s.

Opening later this spring is Auburn Manor, a neighbor-hood featuring homes priced from the $260,000s by Meritage Homes.

“The timing is perfect to open a variety of new neighbor-hoods in Riverstone,” said Tom Wilcox, general manager of the community. “The national and local housing markets are

Riverstone is introducing Waterside at Riverstone, a new neighbor-hood featuring homes priced from the upper $600,000s by Fedrick, Har-ris Estate Homes. The enclave is one of three neighborhoods opening in Riverstone this spring.


Riverstone AnnouncesAnother New Neighborhood

reviving and just in Riverstone our sales are almost double our record-breaking sales last year. It’s shaping up to be an-other stellar year.”

Riverstone is now listed among the nation’s 15 top-selling master-planned communities, according to John Burns Real Estate Consulting. For more information, visit www.river-stone.com.H


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June 2012The Wedding Issue

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May 2012Fridge Friendly

Display Me

ALL MONTHFIRST COLONY BRANCH LIBRARY SOUTH AMERICAN ART EXHIBITThe First Colony Branch Library, 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land, will exhibit a collection of artwork, courtesy of Consuelo Forray, depicting Central and South America. The exhibit may be viewed during regular hours. Call 281-238-2800.

2ndWEDNESDAY, 7 PMCOASTAL PRAIRIE QUILT GUILD Guest speaker Dea Heller will present Setting, Sashing, and Borders at the First United Methodist Church of Missouri City, 3900 Lexington Blvd. Visit www.cpqg.org.

5thSATURDAY, 8:30 AM - 3 PMRIDGE POINT HIGH SCHOOL PANTHER FEST 5K, 10K & KIDS 1 MILE RUNJoin us rain or shine at 500 Waters Lake in Sienna Plantation for this fundraiser benefiting general school funds. Run in the race and stay for a day of fun with music, games, food, shopping, powder puff football and more. Visit www.pantherfest.com.

5thSATURDAY, 10 AM – 2 PMGRAND OPENING OF NEW AQUATIC LEISURE POOLEnjoy the waterslide, lazy river, vortex pool, splashpad, and more located at 4350 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land. Free ice cream, pizza, and giveaways. Like the other FCCA pools, you will need to show your pool tags to enter. Call 281-634-9557.Woman Harvesting Cabbages en La Sierra,

Ecuador by Consuelo Forray

8thTUESDAY, 11 AM – NOONLEGAL AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION SESSIONAn informational session that will address legal and financial issues, including when to start planning for the future, will be held at First United Methodist Church of Missouri City located at 3900 Lexington Blvd. in Missouri City. Call 713.314.1313 or visit www.alz.org/texas.

11thFRIDAY, 6:30 PM LITERACY COUNCIL OF FORT BEND 22ND ANNUAL WINE & MUSIC! “A Silver Celebration” will be held at the Stafford Centre to commemorate the Literacy Council’s 25 successful years with a night of fabulous food, fine wine, live music and a live and silent auction. Call 281-240-8181 or visit www.ftbendliteracy.org.

12th SATURDAY, 9 AM – 4 PMSUGAR LAND GARDEN CLUB 13TH ANNUAL GARDEN TOURWalk away with some great ideas for you own garden rain or shine. Tickets and map are available for $12 at each garden the day of the tour. Call 281-242-1773 or visit www.sugarlandgardenclub.org.

12thSATURDAY, 3 – 4 PMMOTHER’S DAY AFTERNOON TEALearn about 1890’s Victorian tea etiquette while snacking on delicious period finger foods. Weather permitting, this historical event will be held in the beautiful Davis yard. While historical dress is not required, participants are encouraged to wear their Saturday best. Call 281-343-0218 or visit www.georgeranch.org.

6thSUNDAY, 2 PMCHINESE DANCE PERFORMANCE AT GEORGE MEMORIAL LIBRARYIn recognition of Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month, Fort Bend County Libraries will host a performance by Dance of Asian America. The program is free and open to the public. Call 281-341-2677.

6th, 13th & 20thSUNDAYS, 5 – 7 PMCONCERTS IN THE PARK Enjoy a variety of themes and musical genres. Each concert will include several family-oriented activities and other entertainment at Oyster Creek Park, 4033 Highway 6 South. The final concert on May 20th will be held at Eldridge Park, 2511 Eldridge Road. All activities are free and open to the public. Call 281-275-2885 or visit www.sugarlandtx.gov.

Photo courtesy of Dance of Asian America.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Events, schedules and information may change without notice. Please refer to the event’s contact person or check the event’s website for more information.


Pictured are the speakers and musicians for Fort Bend Salutes America 2011. Bottom row: Neil Henry, Michelle Greer, Stephen Coffee, Jimmy Lingenfelter and Andy Lingenfelter. Middle row: Major Troy Nehls, Debbie Fancher and Steve Mc-Fadden. Top row: Wayne Pflughaupt, Rob Harper, LTC Trever Nehls and Ty Miyahara.

Friday, May 47:30 – 9 PMGiving Spirits Concert Series

Saturday, May 128 – 10 PM Movie Under The Moon

Saturday, May 19Noon – 6 PM 4th Annual Sugar Land BASH

Wednesday, May 23 5 – 7:00 pmSugar Land Superstar Auditions

Friday May 257 – 8:30 PMDancing Under The Stars

Saturday, May 266:30 – 9:30 PM5th Annual World Yuanji Day

ONGOING WEEKLY EVENTS:

Thursdays, 4 – 7 PMMay 3, 10, 17, 24 Urban Harvest Farmers Market

Fridays, 9 – 11 PMMay 4, 11, 18, 25, 31 Fitness in the Plaza

Fridays, 7:30 – 9 PMMay 11 & 18Music in the Plaza

SUGAR LAND TOWN SQUARE CALENDAR OF EVENTS

17thTHURSDAY, 10 AMCOASTAL PRAIRIE QUILT GUILD Guest speaker Debbie Maddy will present No Diamonds, No Y Seams: Old Quilts, New Methods at the First United Methodist Church of Missouri City, 3900 Lexington Blvd. Visit www.cpqg.org.

Support Fort Bend Friends and Neighbors at their Scholarship Luncheon on Thursday, May 17th. Pictured are Nancy Frank, Paula Ruskan and Marilyn Davis.

Send your events via www.FortBendFocus.com. Deadline for submission is on or before the 10th of the month for the next month’s publication. All submissions are subject to the publisher’s approval, editing and space availability.www.fortbendfocus.com

CommunityCALENDARSend Your Event

STARTING MAY 18TH WEDNESDAYS, 9 AM – 1 PMSATURDAYS, 3:30 – 7 PMRICHMOND FARMERS MARKETCome shop fresh produce from local growers at the corner of Highway 90 and Second Street. Visit www.ci.richmond.tx.us/market.html.

19th SATURDAY, 10 AM – 1 PMKIDS R KIDS NORTH SUGAR LAND IS TURNING 10! Join us to celebrate our 10th birthday with free games, rides, water activities and more. Call 832-259-3421 or visit www.KidsRKidsSugarLand.com.

28thMONDAY, 9:40 AM FORT BEND SALUTES AMERICA MEMORIAL DAY EVENTFort Bend Salutes America county-wide ceremony will be held in Fulshear at 2nd and Harris Street. This beautiful ceremony will salute our countless men and women of our Armed forces who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Call Troy Nehls at 713-419-5994.

17thTHURSDAY, 10:30 AMFORT BEND FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS’ SCHOLARSHIP LUNCHEONHats-n-Heels Derby Day Soiree is the theme of the Luncheon at BraeBurn Country Club. There will be plenty of southern fare, mint julep spritzers and the sounds of My Old Kentucky Home and more. Flaunt your southern flare and style in the Big Kentucky Hat Contest and bet on your favorite hat to show, place or win! E-mail [email protected] or visit www.FBFN.org.

17th THURSDAY, 6 – 8 PM PEACE, HOPE, SURVIVE Cancer Survivors and families are invited to celebrate life at a Free Concert at the University of Houston Sugar Land. in Sugar Land. Call 713-222-CARE (2273) to reserve your space.


HOT SHOTHigh SchoolBy Lauren Dante

Clair Daly: A Class Act

A senior at Kempner High School, Clair Daly is a well-rounded, smart and talented

young lady. She is an honor roll stu-dent, an extremely talented singer and actress as well as a caring and patient person. Clair is involved with many different clubs and organizations, and through all of these activities, Clair is always willing to lend a helping hand and put a positive and energetic spin on everything she does.

As a member of Spanish National Honor Society, National Honor Soci-ety and English Honor Society, Clair is always helping to brighten others days by giving back to her commu-nity through volunteering. Whether it is making Valentines cards for the English teachers, washing cars to raise money for the Theatre program or attending the Down Syndrome Dances in Houston, Clair generously gives of her time and talents.

Every other month, Clair and a few other students attend the Down Syn-drome Dances for Spanish National Honor Society. Clair helps with set-up, entertaining the youth and cleanup. Since many of the attendees are His-panic youth, attending these dances gives Clair the opportunity to practice her Spanish. “The best part about these dances is that you make friends every time that you go,” said Clair. “Everyone deserves to have fun, and this may be the only thing that these youth attend for the month, so I really try to make sure that everyone has a great time.”

Clair’s job as the Events Coordina-tor for the English Honor Society is also to make sure that everyone has a great time. She is in charge of planning the club’s socials and getting the materials for the event. The last service project they completed was the Valentine’s Day

cards for the English teach-ers. Clair receives many of her service hours for the Honor Societies through her involvement with the The-atre program.

All four years of high school, Clair has been involved with Theatre. She has been in eight main stage performances and two student directed one-act plays. Clair’s favorite musical that she has acted in is Zombie Prom. “Zombie Prom had the musical Grease meeting the world of Zom-bies, and it was a lot of fun to perform,” said Clair. “I like performing musicals be-cause everyone gets a chance to sing, and I always enjoy working with the various casts.” In 2011, Clair attended the Na-tional Thespian Festival in Nebraska and competed the number “Razzle Dazzle” from Chicago with some members of the cast. For 2012, Clair will compete in the tap number “Forget About the Boy” from Thoroughly Modern Millie.

Theatre has taught Clair some new dancing moves, including tap dancing, but her real passion is singing. Clair has participated in Choir all four years of high

school and has been a member of the Varsity Women’s Choir for three years. In 2009 and 2011, Clair was a Pre-Area Finalist in Choir where she was judged on her ability to sight read and sing. Clair was the Section Leader of the Alto 1 section and Secretary of the Choir during her junior year. For her senior year, Clair was elected Presi-dent of the Choir.

In addition to singing at school, Clair sings at her church. Clair is ac-tively involved in the One Voice Choir that is comprised of teenagers and the selective Agape Choir. “I enjoy attend-ing the church choir practices because it is a relaxing atmosphere,” said Clair.

“We all feel comfort-able singing with each other and sing-ing for the Lord.”

For ten years, Clair has been prac-ticing piano. She be-gan participating in the National Piano Guild competitions at an early age, and is now up to a ten-piece program.

As a talented piano player, Clair

uses her skills in her duo ensemble with friend Jessika. Strings At-tached, Clair and Jessika’s band, is an exciting new venture for the girls. The two girls met in choir and de-cided to form a band. Clair plays the keyboard, tambourine and kazoo and Jessika plays the guitar while they both sing. Their signature song is Landslide from Fleetwood Mac. Cur-rently, the girls are playing at local farmers markets on the weekends and Teresita’s Cantina.

In her last few months of high school, Clair has decided to attend St. Edwards University in Austin. She is planning on majoring in Com-munications. As she finishes up her last few days of high school, we con-gratulate Clair on her many accom-plishments and wish her much suc-cess in the future! H

Jessika McFarland and Clair Daly at the Farmers Market at Imperial.

ClairPhotograph by Monica Malone.


Register now and win a

www.fortbendfocus.com

Find complete details and forms atSCHOLARSHIP!

$1,000

Congratulations to Kaitlin Noser, a senior at Terry High School, for being selected as Texas Direct Auto’s “Scholarship Star” for May! Jessica DeMarr, Director of Business Development, presents the $1000 check. Kaitlin’s academic achievements and extracurricular activities include three sports teams - volleyball, swim and water polo, where she is a 3 time varsity letterman in swimming and holds the title of MVP swimmer. Kaitlin has been named Academic All-District for the past 3 years. She is in the top 10% of her class. She was elected to Girl’s State and is active in student council, Junior Achievement, and the Little League, as well as teaching kindergarten Sunday school at her church. Kaitlin was selected as part of Texas Direct Auto’s commitment to educational excellence through the “Scholarship Stars” program. Application details are listed below.

Kaitlin NoserCONGRATULATIONS!

ATTENTION: Fort Bend

High School Seniors

The published photos came from Press Releases submitted to Fort Bend Focusby the schools/organizations of these children.

Fort Bend Kids ChalKBoard Please note:Submitted news must

include complete captions, including

names, to be considered for

publishing.

Southminster School in Missouri City sent four regional qualifiers to the Association of Christian Schools (ACSI)

regional speech championship meet in Channelview, and each of the four earned medals. Students Ryan Michlewicz, Annika

Overstreet, advisor Pat Simon, Jasmine Wright and Dylan Thomas are all smiles while displaying their awards.

Clements High School saluted the achievements of its NJROTC cadets with awards for the 2011-2012

school year. In addition to the award ceremony, the Change of Command took place. The senior officers were relieved of duty, and the new command staff

for 2012-2013 was inducted. The new command staff is Commanding Officer Christopher Mann, Master Chief Prit Dhagat and Executive Officer Edward

Alexander. Pictured are Cadet Brian Williams with Commander Minnard and SGT Major Andrews.

Congratulations to the Lamar Consolidated High School Law Enforcement SkillsUSA team for winning first place in the

SkillsUSA State Competition. The team will now represent Texas at the SkillsUSA National Competition in Kansas City this June. Pictured are (front row) Linda Efejuku, Kaylan Rogers, Ashtin

Calvin, Tracy Nwanne and Chika Iguh; (back row) Beverly Sanders, lead sponsor; Dr. Fred C. Guess, advisor and Saundra

Hill, sponsor. Not pictured is Karen Omayi.

The Sugar Land Skeeters’ mascot, Swatson, made a special visit to Fort Bend Christian Academy. Pictured are

student Carter Fredrickson and Swatson.


The Missouri City-Sugar Land Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated hosted its fourteenth Biennial Beautillion Ball. The twenty distinguished beaus presented were: Nicholas Anderson, Cameron Bell, Joshua Blount, Elijah Cherry, Camiel Guidry, III, Christopher Jackson,

Nicholas Jackson, Austin Johnson, Marcus Mitchell, Joshua Otey, Theodore Otey, Michael Rogers, Kyle Roquemore, Jr., Daryl Sherman II, Carlton

Smith, II, Kenneth Stegal, II, Mackenzie Thibodeaux, Mason Thibodeaux, Jalen Thompson and George Wyche, III.

Smith Elementary 4th grade teacher Carolyn Anderson and student Briana Lewis get a lift before the beginning of State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness (STAAR) testing from former pro football player Ekom Udofia. Udofia

was one of three athletes who visited Lamar Consolidated ISD elementary schools to provide encouragement and inspiration for the new standardized tests. Lending

support are former New York Giant Keith Davis (left) and Clarence Lee.

Congratulations to First Colony Swim

Team member Brett Pinfold for qualifying for the USA Olympic Trial meet in the 100 Free. Brett will be

FCST’s eighth swimmer to qualify for Olympic Trials in June. Brett’s

100 Freestyle time also qualifies him for the US Open meet. Brett’s

also walked away from the meet with FCST team records in 8 events as well as a new GULF record in the 50 backstroke.

Lani Waddle had been growing out her hair for Locks of Love for over a year after deciding she wanted to cut it so she could help a child with cancer. Snip Its in Sugar Land cut off 10-1/2 inches for free sinceit was going to a good cause.

Way to go, Lani!

Missouri City Mayor Allen Owen is pictured with Eagle Scout Zach Giblin and Boy Scout Troop 1852 at the April 16th Missouri City Council Meeting. Giblin was honored for his Eagle Scout Project, which was installing a brick walk at the rear of the Historic Dew House in Kitty Hollow Park. Zach donated the excess funds he collected for the project back to the Dew House. Zach, you “dew” us proud and your community thanks you!



Medical Focus Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital Honors Physicians

CEO Jim Brown with Dr. Sandip Desai.

Cancer survivors and their families are invited to celebrate life at the Peace, Hope, Survive event on Thursday, May 17th from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Univer-sity of Houston Sugar Land. Musician and cancer survivor Charlie Lustman, as part of his Musical HOPE Campaign, will be the special entertainment at a free con-cert. The event is sponsored by Texas On-cology, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, University of Houston-Victoria School of Nursing, American Cancer Soci-ety, and Amgen.

“We are with our patients during their most difficult times as they fight cancer,” said Nancy Wells, practice administrator, Texas Oncology–Sugar Land. “We believe that it’s equally as important to celebrate survivorship with them.”

Charlie Lustman brings hope and humor to cancer survivors through his music, which is inspired by his own jour-ney with cancer. Lustman was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare form of cancer, in his upper jaw bone in July 2006. Af-ter successfully undergoing treatment, Lustman returned to his love of creating

music with a focus on cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Today, he visits cancer centers, wellness communities, and schools throughout the U.S. and in-ternationally on his Musical HOPE Cam-paign to uplift spirits of those affected by cancer.

“We encourage all cancer survivors and their families to join us for this inspir-ing concert and an opportunity to meet other survivors,” said Steven J. Brock-man-Weber, MSN, RN, MS, FACHE, NEA-BC, chief nursing officer/chief oper-ating officer of Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital. “Space is limited so please call 713-222-CARE (2273) to reserve your space for this free event.”

“Sugar Land is a tight-knit commu-nity,” said Betti Guzman, regional vice president of American Cancer Society. “Events such as these provide support to cancer survivors, which is vital to their on-going healing process.”

Lustman uses music to share the story of his personal cancer journey in his one-man pop operetta, which was recorded on his CD Made Me Nuclear. His songs doc-

ument his experience with cancer from diagnosis to recovery and have songs relatable to cancer patients and their families such as, Chemo Brain and The Call. Learn more about Lustman and his Musical HOPE Campaign by visiting his website, www.mademenuclear.com.

“We are pleased to host cancer sur-vivors on the University of Houston Sugar Land campus. It’s a wonderful way to connect more with the commu-nity we serve,” said Kathryn Tart, dean and professor of University of Houston-Victoria School of Nursing.

With the improvement of treatments and rise in cancer screening programs, there are more cancer survivors than ever. Today, more than 11 million cancer survivors live in the U.S., according to the American Cancer Society.

“Amgen Oncology is committed to helping people affected by cancer, from prevention through survivorship. We are proud to be involved in such an event that gives them an evening to celebrate survivorship,” said Kathryn West, advocacy director of Amgen. H

Top honors also went to:

• Best Team Player: Joseph Dang, M.D., Internal Medicine/Hospitalist• Best Bedside Manner: Marc Sangalli, M.D., Obstetrics/Gynecology• Best Overall Documentation: Sandip Desai, M.D., Pulmonary/Critical Care• Best Attitude: Karie Praszek, M.D., Internal Medicine /Hospitalist• Most Responsive: Chau “Chantal” Nguyen, M.D., Obstetrics/Gynecology• Most Supportive: Pragnesh Shah, M.D., Internal Medicine• Best Communicators: Jin Kim, M.D., Emergency Medicine and Brian Heaps, M.D., Obstetrics/Gynecology• Best Educator: William B. Riley, M.D., Chief Medical Officer• Most Respectful: Ali R. Motamedi, M.D., Orthopedic Surgery

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital honored its top physicians during a celebration of National Doctors Day with a Casino Night at Coal Vines in Sugar Land on Wednesday, March 28th. Recognizing the importance of family members, the hospi-tal opened up the event to physicians and their spouses.

Named 2012 Outstanding Female and Male Physicians, was Crystal Kelly, M.D., Internal Medicine and Anesthesiologist Jefferson Riddle, M.D.

“The honored physicians personify the collaborative rela-tionship that we seek with our medical staff,” said Jim Brown, CEO of Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital. “They are all team players who work with our nursing staff to achieve the very best pos-sible patient outcomes.”

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land nurses and staff who work with the doctors on a daily basis nominate and vote on the honored physicians. H

Cancer Survivors Invited To Celebrate Life at Free Concert in Sugar Land


Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Rolls Out Red Carpet for Leading Physicians

At its sixth annual Doctor’s Day awards ceremony, Methodist Sugar Land Hospital literally rolled out the red carpet for their physicians including seven leading physicians, nominated and voted on by over 900 hospital employees. New for Doctor’s Day 2012 was the “Thank a Doctor” campaign to give community members and hospital employees the opportunity to thank a special doctor in honor of National Doctor’s Day and show their appreciation to a physician who has touched their life by writing him or her a short note. Over 300 physicians received an envelope containing thank you notes and comment cards at the event.

Seven physicians were recognized at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Doctor’s Day celebration and medical staff meeting. At the Oscars-style event in appreciation of physicians, secret envelopes revealed the winners. The physician winners then gave a small speech to recognize and thank those that voted and supported them throughout the year.

Physicians in leading roles for 2012 were announced in seven categories: Female Physician of Excellence, Dr.

support to their doctors. “This is a big surprise. Thank you

for making Methodist Sugar Land Hospital a great place to work. I’ve really found my home here. It has been a pleasure and privilege to be a part of the Methodist Family,” said Dr. Starr, winner for the Female Physician of Excellence award. Dr. Boon, the winner of the Male Physician of Excellence award agreed stating, “This is an unbelievable place to work. Thank you to the nursing staff for taking care of my patients. I enjoy working with you all.” Doctor’s Day is a nationally recognized day of celebration held in March every year to honor the healing and lifesaving work of America’s physicians. H

Doctor’s Day Award Winners: Dr. Uttam Tripathy, Dr. Jeffrey Wood, Dr. Nicholas Desai, Dr. John Boon, Dr. Jane Starr, Dr. Scott Rivenes and Dr. B. Keith Ellis.

Methodist Sugar Land Hospital recent-ly celebrated National Certified Nurses Day on March 19th. The hospital honored over 130 certified nurses for their knowl-edge, skills and experience demonstrated by achieving certification in a nursing spe-cialty to promote optimal health outcomes for patients.

March 19th has been declared Na-tional Certified Nurses Day to create a special day of recognition and celebration

Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Celebrates National Certified Nurses Day

Honoring Nurses at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital for National Certified Nurses Day .

Jane Starr, OB/GYN; Male Physician of Excellence, Dr. John Boon, Urologist; Best Team Player, Dr. Scott Rivenes, Emergency Medicine; Most Respectful, Dr. B. Keith Ellis, Cardiologist; Most Supportive, Dr. Nicholas Desai, Podiatrist; Best Bedside Manner, Dr. Jeffrey Wood, Orthopedic Spine Surgeon and Most Technologically Innovative, Dr. Uttam Tripathy, Cardiothoracic Surgeon.

“Our physicians bring a great deal of knowledge, skill and compassion to the residents in the Fort Bend community,” said Chris Siebenaler, CEO of Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “The awards ceremony and ‘Thank a Doctor’ campaign are just a few ways for us to recognize the incredible work our physicians do.”

“Thank you very much. This is quite the honor and I enjoy working with you all,” said Dr. Wood. Dr. Ellis stated, “Thank you administration for your support and thank you to the wonderful Cath Lab nursing staff as taking care of patients is truly a team effort.”

It was a day and evening of celebration to truly express Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s gratitude and

for certified nurses around the world. First-declared by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and endorsed by the American Nurses Association, many other nursing certification organizations have signed on to participate in acknowl-edging the importance of certification to nursing excellence.

“Certification is a formal recognition of knowledge and experience in a par-ticular nursing specialty.” explains Janet

Leatherwood, Chief Nursing Officer at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “Certification rep-resents a declara-tion of a particular individual’s profes-sional competence and a commitment to their profession-

al development and to the patients they serve. We applaud those nurses receiving their certification which not only fosters professional growth, but also promotes ca-reer development.”

Certification of nurses plays an in-creasingly important role in the assur-ance of high standards of care for pa-tients and their loved ones. A Registered Nurse (RN) license provides entry to general nursing practice, and the knowl-edge-intensive requirements of modern nursing require extensive education as well as a strong personal commitment to excellence by the nurse. Methodist Sugar Land Hospital encourages national certi-fication for all of its nurses.

Please join Methodist Sugar Land Hos-pital and the nation’s national nursing cer-tification organizations in honoring those hardworking, dedicated nurses for their professionalism and a job well done! H


Women today have more treatment options than their mothers' generation did when facing gynecologic cancers, fibroids, endometriosis, pelvic prolapse and other uterine conditions. A few years ago, a patient who needed gyne-cologic surgery faced an open surgical procedure that required a large inci-sion. Now if surgery is needed, laparo-scopic and robotic-assisted surgeries may be an option involving fewer risks and a faster recovery.

“With robotic-assisted procedures, patients typically go home the next day and recover in as few as 1 – 2 weeks, compared to a recovery time of four to six weeks after open surgery,” says Katherine Diase, M.D. board certified OB/GYN on staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “These less-invasive surgical procedures involve tiny inci-sions just a few millimeters in length compared to larger, 5 – 7 inch incisions that are common with open surgeries.”

In 2010, Methodist Sugar Land Hos-pital was the first in Fort Bend to in-corporate the da Vinci Surgical Robotic System and recently upgraded to the da Vinci SI Surgical Robotic System. “We are pleased to be the first and only hos-pital in the region to offer this ground-breaking technology to our patients

Robotic-Assisted Surgery HelpsWomen Recover Faster—Free Seminar

and community,” says Jagjit Khairah, D.O., board certified OB/GYN on staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

“The da Vinci system allows the sur-geon to operate from a console while viewing a three-dimensional image of the surgical field,” states Duc Le, M.D., board certified OB/GYN on staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “It translates the surgeon's hand, wrist and finger movements into precise, real-time movements of tiny surgical instruments inside the patient's body.”

The da Vinci SI Surgical Robotics System allows surgeons to see and as-sess anatomy better than the naked eye. “Unmatched vision, precision and control of surgical robotics are amaz-ing benefits of the da Vinci Robot,” says Jane Starr, M.D., board certified OB/GYN on staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

Whether you are facing hysterec-tomy, myomectomy (removal of uter-ine fibroids), surgery to repair vagi-nal/uterine prolapse, or treatment for endometriosis or excessive menstrual bleeding, our surgeons are skilled in ro-botic-assisted gynecological procedures that may help you heal faster so you can get back to work, family and life.

Other benefits of robotic-assisted

surgery include:• Small incisions and minimal scarring• Less pain• Less blood loss and need for transfusion during surgery• Less risk of infection• Shorter hospital stayIn addition, if follow-up treatments

are needed after surgery, such as for gynecologic cancers, women may be ready for the next phase of treatment more quickly.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Diase, Dr. Khairah, Dr. Le, Dr. Starr, or another OB/GYN in your area, please call our physician referral line at 281-274-7500. H

Women’s Health Seminar

Join us for a FREE Women’s HealthSeminar about Gynecological Disorders

and Minimally Invasive Treatments.Presented by Dr. Katherine Diase, Dr. Duc Le, Dr. Jagjit Khairah and Dr. Jane Starr.

Tuesday, May 22, 6 p.m.Methodist Sugar Land Hospital

Conference CenterRefreshments • Door Prizes

RSVP: 281-274-7500 or email [email protected]

Texas Children’s Hospital recently announced the start of labor and deliv-ery services and the arrival of its first baby, a healthy boy, at its landmark new facility, Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women. The nationally-ranked chil-dren’s hospital has now fully expanded into obstetrical and gynecological care with the completion of its 15-story, $575-million state-of-the-art hospital which is staffed, designed and equipped to be among the nation’s premier cent-ers for women’s, fetal and newborn health. Texas Children’s Pavilion for

New Era Begins as Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women Commences Laborand Delivery Services at Premier Facility for Women’s, Fetal and Newborn Care

Women can accommodate 5,000 births annually and specializes in multiple births and high-risk pregnancies.

On March 26, at 8:16 a.m., the first baby was delivered by scheduled cesar-ean section by Dr. Michael Belfort, ob-stetrician and gynecologist-in-chief at Texas Children’s Hospital and chair-man of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Baylor College of Medicine (BCM) and Dr. Susan Leong-Kee of BCM Obstetrics and Gynecol-ogy. Weighing 6 lbs. 6 oz., the baby boy, Brayten, was born to Houston res-

idents Andrea and Brandon Green. A high-risk pregnancy, the delivery went smoothly and both mother and baby are doing well.

“What an exciting day for Texas Children’s Hospital and the culmina-tion of our vision to improve the health of children by providing high quality, comprehensive care for mothers start-ing before birth,” said Mark A. Wallace, president and CEO of Texas Children’s Hospital. “This is truly a new era for Texas Children’s, because our Pavil-ion for Women is designed to care for


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women at all stages of life and we are fully committed to making a difference in women’s healthcare through treat-ment, research and education.”

Belfort pointed out that Texas Chil-dren’s Pavilion for Women was cre-ated to care for the most complicated pregnancies and critically ill newborns as well as serve thousands of normal deliveries annually. “The Pavilion for Women offers unprecedented access to leading experts offering the latest treatments and most advanced tech-nologies in obstetrics, gynecology, ma-ternal fetal medicine, fetal surgery and neonatal medicine,” said Belfort. “This is a new paradigm for children’s hos-pitals, but one that is sure to become a model for care across the country.” He added that the Pavilion is designed to facilitate the practice of family-cen-tered maternity care, an evidenced-based care model that involves the family throughout the birthing and postpartum care process and promotes better outcomes.

The completion of the Pavilion for Women culminates Texas Children’s Vision 2010 expansion, a four-year, $1.5 billion initiative that also in-cluded renovation of its Feigin Center research facilities as well as the crea-tion of the Jan and Dan Duncan Neu-rological Research Institute, one of the world’s first basic research institutes dedicated to childhood neurological diseases, and Texas Children’s West Campus, a community pediatric hospi-tal in suburban West Houston. H

GOT SOMETHING NEWSWORTHY?

Send your news via www.FortBendFocus.com.

Deadline for submission is on or before the 10th of the month

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the publisher’s approval, editingand space availability.


Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Cancer Center CelebratesNational Cancer Survivor’s Day Luncheon on June 1st

Methodist Sugar Land Hospital will join over 12 million American cancer survivors in observing the 25th annual National Cancer Survivor’s Day this year. Hundreds of communities world-wide will host events on this day to cel-ebrate life and demonstrate that there is hope. The contributions of the fami-lies, friends and health care providers who support cancer survivors will also be recognized.

The National Cancer Survivor’s Day Foundation (NCSD) administrator is encouraging everyone to participate in their community’s event. “Come join in the fun and see for yourself that life can go on, and is sometimes even enhanced by a cancer diagnosis,” says Foundation spokesperson, Paula Chad-well. “National Cancer Survivor’s Day is a great opportunity for cancer survi-vors, caregivers, friends and family to come together and affirm the possibil-ity of quality of life after a diagnosis of cancer,” added Clive Shkedy, M.D., radiation oncologist and Medical Direc-tor of Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Cancer Center.

“A ‘survivor’ is anyone living with a history of cancer – from the moment of diagnosis through the remainder of life,” as defined by the Founda-tion. Cancer survivors may face many challenges such as hindered access to cancer specialists and promising new treatments, inadequate or no insur-ance, financial hardships, employment problems and psychological struggles. “Despite these difficulties, cancer sur-vivors can live active, productive lives,” says Chadwell.

Methodist Sugar Land Cancer Cent-

Methodist Sugar Land Cancer Center Radiation Oncology Staff and Clive Shkedy, M.D., Radiation Oncologist and Medical Director of Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Cancer Center.

Dr. Kenneth Lee along with his healthcare team is excited to announce the opening of their new state-of-the-art facility conveniently located at the corner of Sweetwater and Highway 59.

With the help of a specialized healthcare design team Dr. Lee designed his new facility with the patient as the focal point taking his treatment philosophy of compassionate and innovative care into consideration. The new Modern Spine facility includes a private consult room for family involvement; spacious exam rooms with interactive education area and large digital imaging screens for viewing; onsite digital x-rays as well as

Modern Spine, PLLC- Kenneth Lee, MDMoving To New State-Of-The-Art Facility

patient education rooms. The waiting area is warm and inviting with seating custom designed by Dr. Lee specifically for our patients suffering with neck and low back pain.

Dr. Lee established Modern Spine, PLLC in an effort to transform the treatment of spinal disorders by providing conservative care and minimally invasive procedures that are evidence-based with proven outcomes. Dr. Lee is uniquely trained in Orthopedic and Neurosurgical Spine Surgery as well as Board Certified in Orthopedic Spine Surgery.

Dr. Lee has been serving Sugar Land since 2008. H

Medical Focus continued on page 88

er welcomes all local cancer survivors, caregivers, community leaders, Meth-odist Sugar Land Hospital physicians and anyone passionate about the cause to join us as we honor the survivors liv-ing with a history of cancer in America today. The Cancer Survivor’s Day Cel-ebration and Luncheon will be held Friday, June 1st, from 11:45-1:00 p.m. at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital – Conference Center. RSVP is required. Please RSVP by May 29th to Frances Goerlich by calling 281-274-7930 or email [email protected]. H

Board-certified family medicine physician Asha Kohli, M.D. has joined Memorial Hermann Medical Group in Missouri City.

Dr. Kohli completed her medical doc-torate and internship training at Lady Hardinge Medical College at the Uni-versity of Delhi in Delhi, India. She ad-ditionally completed a residency in fam-ily medicine at Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit, Michigan, where she served as an instructor and assistant residency director in the de-partment of Family Physicians.

Board certified in family medicine, Dr. Kohli practiced family medicine for 30 years before joining the Memorial Her-

Memorial Hermann Medical Group Welcomes

Missouri City Family Medicine Physician


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Getting a Leg Up on Varicose Veins—Free Seminar

They’re not dangerous. But if you’ve got varicose veins, that’s prob-ably a small conso-lation. Dangerous or not, the twisted blue bulges are not a pretty sight. However, varicose veins can be suc-cessfully treated

and there are steps you can take to ease the condition.

“Under normal circumstances, valves in the veins open to allow blood to flow toward the heart and close to keep blood from flowing back down,” says Ulises Baltazar, M.D., board certified vascular surgeon on staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “Sometimes, though, valves in the legs fail to seal properly. When that happens, blood leaks down into the vein and pools behind the valve.”

Although varicose veins are no more than a cosmetic concern for many, a feel-ing of heaviness in the legs, night cramps, skin ulcers and phlebitis are among the potential complications.

Women are more likely than men to develop varicose veins — a fact due in no small part to pregnancy, when elevated hormone levels cause vein walls to weak-en, contributing to valve failure. Heredity plays a big role, too. In fact, if your mom had varicose veins, don’t be surprised if you develop identical bulges.

Couch potatoes also are more prone to the condition. Here’s why: With each step you take, the large calf muscles contract — much as the heart does. That motion helps pump blood back toward the heart. Because sedentary people spend a lot of time off their feet, their calf muscles aren’t exercised. As a result, the muscles’ pumping action is stifled, allowing blood to pool in the legs.

Whether you have varicose veins or are trying to prevent them, here are some suggestions for keeping your legs in good shape:

• Change position. If you sit or stand for long periods of time, it’s important to take frequent breaks. Walk around, do some leg lifts, flex your ankles.

Dr. Ulises Baltazar

• Wear support hose. If you stand for long periods of time during the day, using compression stockings will help to protect your legs from varicose veins.

• Exercise regularly. Walking, swim-ming, biking and other exercises strength-en calf muscles, helping them pump blood upward.

• Shed excess weight. Extra pounds aggravate circulatory problems and con-tribute to weakened vein valves.

• Put your feet up. At the end of the day, raise your legs so that they’re about 12 inches above heart level. This allows the blood to drain from the veins and aids circulation.

Dr. Baltazar says there are treatment options for varicose veins when lifestyle changes aren’t enough. If you think your varicose veins require treatment, ask your healthcare provider about these options:

Sclerotherapy. This nonsurgical pro-cedure, which can be done in the doctor’s office, involves a series of injections that shrink varicose veins. The injected solu-tion causes irritation and eventual scar-ring within the abnormal veins, forcing them to close up.

Endovenous ablation. This is a min-imally invasive technique that is used in-stead of stripping the affected vein, which is closed with heat from a radiofrequency catheter or a laser fiber.

Surgery. In a procedure called ligation and stripping, the affected portion of the vein is tied off and removed. The surgery, which is usually reserved for very large varicose veins, is often performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia.

To make an appointment with Dr. Baltazar or another vascular surgeon in your area, call our physician referral line at 281-274-7500. H

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land has taken a giant step towards improving the health of newborns and infants by earning the Texas Ten Step facility designation from the Department of State Health Services and the Texas Hospital Association.

The Texas Ten Step Program encourages breastfeeding as the preferred method of feeding for newborns and infants. Memorial Hermann Sugar Land joins a growing number of Texas birth facilities that are supporting new mothers and their decision to breastfeed.

Based on the World Health Organization (WHO)/ UNICEF’s Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding, the program aims to assist birth facility’s support of breastfeeding mothers before, during, and after delivery; encourages them to identify breastfeeding resources for the mother after she is discharged, and encourages facilities to reach the Healthy People 2020 goal of having 82 percent of mothers exclusively breastfeeding when they go home with their newborn.

“We have worked very hard to earn the Texas Ten Step designation,” said Ann Kingrey, registered nurse and certified lactation consultant. “And, we are proud to join the other select Texas hospitals in promoting breastfeeding to our new mothers.”

For more information on the Texas Ten Step Program, call Veronica Hendrix, Program Coordinator at (512) 341-4592, or visit www.texastenstep.org. H

Medical Focus continued from page 86

Memorial HermannSugar Land Certified as a Texas Ten Step Hospital

Free Vein Seminar

Join us for a free seminar presented byDr. Ulises Baltazar about Venous

Insufficiency: the causes, symptoms,who is at risk, treatments and prevention.

Methodist Sugar Land HospitalConference Center

Wednesday, May 16, 2012—6 p.m.Certificate for Free Vein Screening

mann Medical Group in 2012. She has special interests in wellness and preven-tive medicine as well as women’s health, diabetes, hypertension and lipid manage-ment. Fluent in Hindi and Punjabi, Dr. Kohli treats patients of all ages.

Memorial Hermann Medical Group Missouri City is the newest location of Me-morial Hermann Medical Group, a physi-cian-led subsidiary of Memorial Hermann Healthcare System.

Dr. Kohli is seeing patients at 6218 Highway 6, Ste B, Missouri City. She can be reached at 281.403.6218. H


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Johnson Development Corp. Acquires West HoustonMaster-Planned Community Cross Creek Ranch

Originally designed and developed by Trendmaker Homes, Cross Creek Ranch opened in Spring 2008. In 2011, new home sales in Cross Creek Ranch placed it as one of the top 20 best-selling mas-ter-planned communities in the United States. Most recently, the west Houston community was recognized as Houston’s 2012 Master Planned Community of the Year by the Greater Houston Builders As-sociation.

Located in the top-performing area for new home sales in Houston, Cross Creek Ranch currently has close to 700 homes with another 5,000 home sites available for development over the next ten years. Approximately 200 acres in the commu-nity have been set aside for retail, com-mercial and multi-family.

The purchase of the popular master-planned community marks Johnson Development’s entry into the Katy sub-market, an area the Houston-based de-velopment company with a 30-year track record has eyed for years.

“We’ve been interested in the Katy area sub-market for quite some time,” notes Johnson Development Corp. Presi-dent Larry Johnson. “This is an exciting addition to our portfolio of highly ameni-tized communities.”

The acquisition also comes at a time when master-planned communities na-tionwide are reporting their strongest sales in three years, according to Robert Charles Lesser & Co., an independent real

estate advisory firm. Moreover, Houston currently stands at the top housing mar-ket in the United States as measured by new home starts.

Johnson Development’s collection of award-winning master-planned commu-nities includes Sienna Plantation and Riv-erstone, two of the top best-selling mas-ter-planned communities in the United States, as well as Fall Creek, Woodforest, Tuscan Lakes, Edgewater, Silverlake and the new Imperial development in Sugar Land.

Will Holder, president of Trendmaker Homes, says the company will continue to build homes in Cross Creek Ranch. He adds the sale will allow Trendmaker Homes to participate aggressively in other communities in Houston.

“We’re proud of what we started in Cross Creek Ranch and will continue to explore new areas of growth in the Hou-ston area,” says Holder.

Residents in Cross Creek Ranch enjoy a number of resort-style amenities includ-

Local Business Owner Reports 63% Growth While The Rest of His Industry Reports Losses

A local business owner reported 63% growth this year as a result of a Stra-tegic Business Owners Program led by The Growth Coach Houston. While the rest of his industry reported losses, he was approached by a larger company ex-

The Welcome Center at Cross Creek Ranch.

ing the Cross Creek Water Park, a large resort-style swimming pool with a 200-foot water slide, a wading pool and spray park. It also is home to miles of hike-and-bike trails and a fitness center and sports complex with tennis courts, basketball court, sand volleyball court and play-grounds for all ages. Plus, several parks are located within walking distance of every neighborhood in the community.

Builders in Cross Creek Ranch include Ashton Woods Homes, Kickerillo Com-pany, Newmark Homes, Perry Homes, Plantation Homes, Trendmaker Homes and Village Builders.

Families in the community currently attend schools in the Katy Independ-ent School District and eventually in the Lamar Consolidated Independent School District as well. In addition, the Cross Creek Ranch Education Foundation will fund enhanced education programs for students of all age groups.

For information about Cross Creek Ranch, go to www.crosscreektexas.com. H

pressing interest in possibly buying his business because of the internal systems that had been developed through the program.

The Growth Coach Houston led him, along with a small group of other busi-

ness owners, in completing the 2-year Strategic Business Owners Program last month. All participants reported growth and increased revenues. This process en-abled them to create a balanced life while making their businesses more valuable.


Fort Bend Cares Announces New Executive Director

Scott Breeze, Chairman of the Fort Bend Cares Board of Directors, recently announced the hiring of Laura Richard as the charitable foundation’s Execu-tive Director, replacing Jill Curtis who will be stepping down April 30th. “The Board and the Fort Bend community is very thankful for Jill’s tireless ef-forts over the past 18 months during a significant period of growth for our or-ganization. Fortunately, Jill has agreed to stay on as a member of the Board. Going forward, we are thrilled to have Laura join our organization and believe that she will be a perfect fit to help us accomplish our goals and objectives. She possesses leadership and organi-zational skills coupled with extensive non-profit experience which will posi-tively contribute to the impact we are having in serving disadvantaged chil-dren in our community,” said Breeze.

Laura has most recently served as the Executive Director of Mental Health America of Fort Bend County and has additional non-profit experience with the Fort Bend Regional Council on Sub-stance Abuse and the Fort Bend County Women’s Center. She has 20 years of management, marketing and develop-ment experience in the corporate world,

as well, working for BMC Software and IBM. Laura has deep ties to the community having grown up in Fort Bend County and graduating from Houston Baptist University with a degree in Marketing and Management. The list of organizations that she has volunteered with includes the Fort Bend Junior Service League, Child Ad-vocates, Texana, FBISD and numerous others. Laura currently resides in Sug-ar Land with her husband, Jim, and their three children.

Fort Bend Cares was founded in 2004 by long time residents of Fort Bend County who sought to assist nu-merous charitable organizations that were addressing the needs of disadvan-taged children. Grants are provided to non-profit organizations that support children and youth in areas dealing with physical, health, educational, rec-reational and emotional needs. Since its inception, Fort Bend Cares has be-stowed grants totaling approximately $720,000. H

Laura Richardson

The Trustees of The George Founda-tion recently elect-ed Don Wenzel to the board for a ten year term. Wenzel replaces outgoing Trustee Mike Wells of Houston and Fort Bend County, who was appointed to the

board in 2002 and served as chairman April 2011 through March 2012. “Add-ing the leadership and expertise of Don Wenzel to that of the current board will be an asset to The George Foundation as it undertakes strategic philanthropic initiatives critical to the residents of Fort Bend County,” said Mike Wells, retiring chairman.

Don Wenzel Elected to Trustees of The George Foundation

Submit newsworthyitems

[email protected]

The Growth Coach Houston has a proven process that helps business owners by providing guidance, account-ability, and resources, that drives them toward increasing the value of their busi-ness. This process also assists business owners to “work less and make more” by equipping them to create a system where the business is not primarily dependent on the owner, allowing them to live a more balanced life.

Business owners interested in grow-ing their business and a more balanced life can visit www.TheGrowthCoach-Houston.com or call (281) 841-6680 for more information.About The Growth Coach Houston

The Growth Coach Houston is a coaching and consulting firm designed to help business owners, sales profes-sionals, and executives improve their business and their life. The Growth Coach Houston is led by Glenn Smith who has been coaching for more than 10 years. He recently was selected as The Growth Coach’s “Coach of the Year for 2011” and was awarded the Ursula Coates Chairman’s Award for 2011 by the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce. Visit www.TheGrowthCoachHouston.com for more information. H

Wenzel was born in Needville and is a graduate of Needville High School. He lived in Booth, Texas for 30 years before returning to Needville where he current-ly resides with his wife, Lorrell.

Wenzel, a well-known community supporter, currently serves on the board of the Needville Harvest Festival, Rosen-berg Railroad Museum and the Needville High School Scholarship Fund. He is also a member of the Needville Chamber of Commerce and Lamar Educational Awards Foundation.

Wenzel also served as an active par-ticipant of the Fort Bend County business community for over 30 years as owner and operator of Uticon, Inc., a general contracting business. He continues to be active in business through his role as president of Wenzel Enterprises, a real

estate investment company.Wenzel is the father of two adult chil-

dren, Angie Davlin and Dustin Wenzel, both of whom reside in the Fort Bend County area. Wenzel admits that he spends a great amount of his time enjoy-ing his one granddaughter, Lizzie.

Serving on the Foundation’s Board with Wenzel will be Trustees Pat Mc-Donald, Bill Jameson, John Null, and Tom McNut. H

Don Wenzel


ENTER TO WINFort Bend Focus Magazine is looking for great amateur photos. Think you have a great shot? Any subject matter will be considered, black and white or color, special effects and/or edited are not necessary.

A WINNER EVERY MONTHEach month’s winner receives a $50 gift certificate to a restaurant and the winning photo will be published in our magazine. To claim your prize, call Norma @ 281-690-4242. Runner-up photos may be published in our “Readers’ Photo Album.”

NO LIMIT TO ENTRIESTo submit a digital photo, e-mail the jpeg file to [email protected]. Digital photos must be HIGH RESOLUTION at least 300 dpi at actual size of at least 4” x 6”.

Please make sure to send some basic information about every photo you submit such as: who, where, when, a title, your name and daytime phone number.

By submitting an entry, the photographer gives the Fort Bend Focus Magazine the right to use and publish their photograph. There is no contest deadline.

May 2012 Winner

“Cason Harrelson, 3-Years-Old” By Jennifer Harrelson

Congratulations Jennifer, you’ve earned a $50 gift certificate to a restaurant!

A M A T E U R P H O T O C O N T E S T


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EURO-ASIANBLU Restaurant | Lounge2248 Texas Avenue, Sugar Land281-903-7324

A new restaurant with international style and global flavors has landed in Sugar Land Town Square! BLU boasts a Euro-Asian menu from acclaimed Executive Chef Junnajet “Jett” Hurapan. With a diverse background that spans cuisine from Thailand to New American and Mediterranean, Chef Jett’s dinner menu offers an extensive array of both small and larger plates perfect for sharing. Come explore and enjoy an incredibly sumptuous 3-course lunch menu for $12 and $4 happy hour menu Tuesday through Sunday. Visit www.blusugarland.com.

INDIANGreat W’kana Cafe11720 West Airport and Kirkwood832-886-4291

Great W’kana Cafe (which means “harmony” in Sanskrit) is a unique dining experience with vibrant colors, friendly staff and excellent food. Authentic and contemporary Indian dishes, such as avocado naan, tandoori, and spinach and paneer (simple Indian farmers cheese) appetizer, are prepared by owner Chef Sunil and wife Anupama in an open kitchen atmosphere right before your eyes. Try the “dum” cookery, a steaming technique that in more primitive times used tightly sealed dough to cook a dish over a charcoal fire. All of the meat served is halal. Open Mon -Thurs for lunch 11:00 to 3:00 and dinner 5:30 to 10:00, and Fri and Sat until 10:30 with a special brunch on weekends. Visit www.greatwkanacafe.com.

GREAT W’KANA CAFEBoutique Indian Cuisine

FOCUS FAVORITES... Your Community Resource Guide

Accounting & Bookkeeping

Books With Integrity281-978-6916www.bookswithintegrity.netSandra@bookswithintegrity.netAssisting small businesses with bookkeeping & payroll. Services range from onsite training to full-charge bookkeeping. Have your receipts or Excel data turned it into a valuable resource for your business. Already have a set of books? We can en-sure they are set up properly. Using QuickBooks? Let us assist you with utilizing all the software features available to optimize your bookkeeping process. We provide accuracy, professionalism & enthusiasm, allowing you to focus on big-picture issues. (07/2012)

Acupuncture

LIFEnhance Acupuncture Clinic713-661-8822www.acupuncturetx.netwww.lifenhanceclinic.comwendy4chz@yahoo.comHealth insurances accepted. Our clini-cal services include acupuncture, acupressure, massage, evidence-based botanical medicine, dietary supplements, and special diets. We treat: Headaches (Migraine, Facial, Sinus, Muscle Pain, Trigeminal Neuralgia), Neck Pain, Shoulder Pain, Back Pain, Joint Pain, Chronic Pain due to Trauma, Bell’s Palsy, Infertility (IVF/IUI) Support, Meno-pause, Cancer Support, Stress/Depression, and Weight Management. We accept many health insurances. (05/2012)

Advertising/Printing/Graphics

Focus On Women [email protected], the magazine that you have been wait-ing for. A new publication showcasing one of the best and brightest resources – our women. Full of interesting, thought-provoking stories. Focus on Women is a celebration of today’s women – their lives, their passions and their spirit. (10/2010)

Children Sports/Gymnastics, Tumbling & Cheer

GYMTEX Gymnastics & Cheerleading [email protected] free morning gymnastics class for new students 10 months to 5 years old. Call to reserve a spot! Ten years in Fort Bend has allowed GYMTEX to provide families with children ages 3 to 18 quality gymnas-

tics and cheerleading training in a safe, fun and clean environment. Not only does GYMTEX produce state champions, but they build your child’s character! Take advantage of Olympic caliber gymnastics equipment, an indoor rock wall, rope-net climbs, 40 foot tram-poline and a giant foam block pit and more! Change your child’s life today with classes at GYMTEX and produce a champion for life! (06/2012)

Estate Planning and Probate

Andreason Law Firm281-265-1561www.andreasonlawfirm.comkurtandreason@andreasonlawfirm.comWith over 25 years experience in Texas, Kurt M. Andreason can meet your estate planning needs with everything from basic wills and disability planning documents to sophisticated estate plan-ning strategies, including family limited partner-ships, life insurance trusts and other recognized methods of estate tax reduction. Convenient Sugar Land location. Handicap Accessible. Board Certified in Estate Planning, Probate Law and Commercial Real Estate. Listed over 10 years in Best Lawyers in America. (11/2010)

Finance/Wealth Management

Hardee Investment Group713-853-0879www.HardeeInvestmentGroup.comHardeeInvestmentGroup@rbc.comWith over 85 years of collective experience, the Hardee Investment Group is your ultimate finan-cial planning resource. Our team is comprised, of five diversified professionals, working primarily with family wealth and businesses up to $100 mil-lion. Our Group has been awarded national recog-nition by RBC Wealth Management, the National Association of Board Certified Advisory Practices, the Houston Business Journal and Barron’s, a sis-ter publication to the Wall Street Journal, for our award winning service and advice. (10/2011)

Jewelry

J Loggins Jewelers281-242-2900www.jloggins.comFor all of your jewelry needs. Come view a large selection of beautiful pieces by various design-ers. Expertise in original design and construction with an emphasis on providing the best in quality and value sets J Loggins Jewelers apart from all of the rest. Take advantage of the wide array of services including simple solders, repairs in all precious metals, repairs of some fashion and base metals, heirloom restorations, makeovers, engrav-ing, watch battery replacement, restringing and appraisals. (05/2012)

Marketing & Advertising

The Marketing Department [email protected]@tmdmainstreet.comTMD is a friendly retail environment where small business owners can shop for affordable market-ing ideas to help grow their business. The own-ers, Howard and Christie Spencer, will take the time to get to know you and understand your busi-ness - at absolutely no cost to you. This free con-sultation results in customized marketing strate-gies designed to fit your needs and budget. We’ll help you sell more -- to more people, more often, for more money! (03/2011)

Medical Services

Synicare Medical281.378.8040 • Fax: 888.397.1240 [email protected] Medical is focused on providing high-quality service and customer satisfaction - we will do everything we can to meet your expectations. We specialize in durable medical equipment and medical supplies. We accept all private insurance and strive to meet the needs of every patient in a professional and caring way. If there are any com-ments or questions, please feel free to contact us.(12/2011)

Pediatrics

MedCare Pediatric Group, LP713-995-9292www.medcarepediatrics.cominfo@medcarepediatrics.comMedCare has been providing quality healthcare services to area families since 1991. Our mission is to enhance the lives of children, and our dedi-cated team carries out this vision with the utmost care & compassion. In addition to our caring team, MedCare reaches out to families in the commu-nity through our non-profit foundation, MedCare Milestones. Our MedCare services include Home Health Nursing & Therapy, and 3 Outpatient Re-hab facilities located in Stafford, Northshore, & Spring. (01/2013)

Pest Control/Exterminator

Integrated Pest Management Inc.281-341-1761 • Fax [email protected] owned and operated servicing Fort Bend County for 29 years, Integrated Pest Manage-




ment’s knowledge and friendly staff can answer all of your pest questions. A convenient retail store located on Hwy. 90 next to the Women’s Center retail store, we are open Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. Stop by to check out our col-lection of snakes, exotic bugs and rodents. Save money by purchasing the materials yourself and let us educate you on how to apply them. Better yet, let us do the job for you. Thanks, Bob, Frank, Shirley, Daniel and Phil. (04/2013)

Podiatry and Cosmetic

Elite FootCare of Texas, Inc.832-539-1620www.elites-of-texas.comadmin@elites-of-texas.comPodiatric & cosmetic medical facility providing ad-vanced foot/ankle care in a compassionate & car-ing environment, located in Fort Bend. Dr. Shep-herd will make sure you are comfortable, satisfied & well-informed about your healthcare through the diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Ser-vices include general & cosmetic foot care, with treatments to make feet comfortable and beauti-ful such as: foot facials/spa and detox, toe nail bleach, treating hyperhydrosis (sweaty feet) and Stiletto Rx (high heel comfort). (03/2011)


Resale Shops

PennyWise Resale CentersBenefitting Fort Bend CountyWomen’s Center281-344-5770www.fortbendwomenscenter.orgAre your closets and home overfilled with un-wanted, usable items? Declutter your home and donate your lightly used home furniture, house-wares, clothing, appliances, computers and elec-tronics, shoes and jewelry. We accept everything from jeans to wedding gowns and designer wear. PennyWise Resale stores (Richmond, Stafford and Mission Bend) depend on the community’s gener-ous donations, and all proceeds assist survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault and their children. Shop for unbelievable savings. (09/2011)

Transportation

The Original Trolley & Limousine Company281-491-4911www.originaltrolley.comotrolley@comcast.netThe Original Trolley Company brings back a sense of nostalgia for groups who are looking for a truly

unique transportation experience. The Trolley Company presently has three trolley cars ready for hire. The Trolleys are fully air conditioned and heated, mahogany trimmed, bar set up accommodations and have a trolley brass bell. Visit our website at www.originaltrolley.com to view our large gallery of photos. If a trolley is too large for your group, we have added a 120 inch stretch Limousine. (10/2010)

Vacation

Rio Raton Duplex832-788-2294www.rioratonduplex.comNew Braunfels - Guadalupe Riverfront on River Rd. (out-side New Braunfels city limits). First-Class riverfront du-plex. Minutes to Schlitterbahn or tube the Guadalupe. Also convenient to Fiesta Texas, Sea World, Gruene Hall, Natural Bridge Cavern and Canyon Lake. 2 units available - each unit sleeps 8. See pictures and rates, and email your dates from webpage. (10/2010)

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I n the early mornings of spring, I hear the birds chirping that were once silent, and the sun

emerges as a glimmer and then a pouring of gold through my window. Every year this happens, and the fact that I can count on certain things to just happen naturally is comfort-ing. I learned about spring from my Big Daddy and Nana. The first of the butterflies and the dragon ones would appear. I liked them both as a child, but the dragon ones used to make me nervous when they would land precariously on my arm. How did they know I was not a blade of grass? Big Daddy would just say, “Hold still little darling ... they won’t hurt you.” And, of course, I did.

One day, we were riding round and round the mountains of the Blue Ridge where the walls of the earth have opened up and streams a plenty pour non-stop and forever. We came to a special spot that I called “Mommy’s spot.” Big Daddy told me the story of how he and mama had been riding round and round and came across a great long, black snake. Big Daddy got out of the car and so did mama. He asked her, “Should I kill it?” I think back to how he raised me and her, and I now think it was a test. She replied, “No Daddy, let him live!” I know that is precisely what he wanted her to say. He was the one who told me that story and through the years together, we came across others whose lives we could have taken but chose not to do so.

Last spring on my front porch, my children and I discovered a snake. This snake had lots of personality as he squirmed into our front door wreath and looked inside the house at us, turning his head this way and that as we tapped at the glass. The plant-ers beside the door were filled with

Living the Sweet Life: By Alisa Murraywww.AlisaMurray.com

Nationally recognized portrait artistand award-winning columnist.

LIVE!

dirt and flowers and little did I realize what a nice nest it would make for a morning dove. Obviously, a young dove is quite new to this natural thing of “mothering.” It did not take long for us to figure out why this snake was so intrigued by our door! He would hold onto the wreath with his tail and sneak himself an egg when she flew off her nest. One night, Victoria Ann turned on the lights and dis-covered the snake in the dove’s nest with a baby in his mouth! This was a dreadful sight but also a wonder-ful opportunity to teach the laws of the universe. My children opened the door, and Brian batted at the snake with a broom trying to just get him to leave. The mother flew into our house and after flying into a picture and recovering, she took off out the back door! (For those of you who do not know it, there is NEVER a dull moment in our house!)

The mama dove never came back

to her nest, and by the time we got her straight and out of our house, which by the way had three very intrigued cats watching, that sneaky snake had eaten her last baby! Now at first, the children wanted to know why we had not killed the snake. I asked each of them to think about what would have happened if we had killed “Sneaky Sam.” (Yes, after watching his antics in the door for a few days, they named him!) It did not take long for them to put together that they could not have saved the babies, and the snake was just trying to do what snakes do. “No Mama,” they replied, “Let him live!”

Happy Spring! Take Care of You!

Let Him

16655 Southwest FreewaySugar Land, Texas 77479MethodistSugarLand.com

WOMEN’S HEALTH SEMINARJoin us for a Women’s Health Seminar about Gynecological Disorders and Minimally Invasive Treatments. Presented by Dr. Katherine Diase, Dr. Duc Le, Dr. Jagjit Khairah and Dr. Jane Starr.

Tuesday, May 22 • 6 p.m.Conference CenterRefreshments • Door Prizes

RSVP: 281-274-7500 [email protected].

NATIONAL CANCER SURVIVOR’S DAY

Celebration and LuncheonMethodist Sugar Land

Cancer Center welcomes cancer survivors, caregivers,

community leaders, physicians and anyone passionate about

the cause to join us as we honor America’s cancer survivors.

Friday, June 1 11:45 a.m. - 1 p.m.Conference Center

RSVP to Frances Goerlich

281-274-7930 or [email protected].

VEIN SEMINAR

Join us for a seminar presented by

Dr. Ulises Baltazar about Venous

Insufficiency: causes, symptoms, who

is at risk, treatments and prevention.

Wednesday, May 16 • 6 p.m.

Conference Center

Certificate for Free Vein Screening

Refreshments • Door Prizes

RSVP: 281-274-7500 or

[email protected].

MEDICAL SEMINARS & EVENTS at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital

may 2012 - fort bend focus magazine - people • places • happenings

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