October 2015 - Fort Bend Focus Magazine - People • Places • Happenings

OCTOBER 2015

Meet the GEMS of Fort Bend

Houston Methodist Sugar Land's Team Approach toBreast Cancer Care

FOCUS ONTHE CURESpooktacular HALLOWEENTips & Treats

Women’s CenterThe Women’s Center at CHI St. Luke’s Health–Sugar Land Hospital offers compassionate, high- quality comprehensive care to women at every stage of life in one convenient location.

Our radiology technicians are trained to perform exams such as mammograms, ultrasounds, and breast MRIs, while our radiologists are trained to interpret them. From preventative screenings to specialized care, our team of physicians are experts in helping women understand their conditions and treatment options.

Special Services for Breast Cancer Detection

3-D Tomosynthesis is similar to a traditional digital mammogram, but uses less breast compression to get results. The breast is positioned and compressed in the same way as for a mammogram, but the X-ray tube moves in a circular arc around the breast to create a 3-dimensional image of the breast. A 3-D tomosynthesis may be performed in conjunction with a traditional digital mammogram.

MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, is a supplemental tool to detect and stage breast cancer, as well as evaluateabnormalities detected by a mammography and/or breast ultrasound. The technology also is beneficial to high-risk patients with dense breast tissue. MRIs can:

• Determine extent of tumor • Search for multiple tumors prior to breast conservation surgery• Determine breast implant integrity• Determine spread of cancer beyond the surgical site after a breast biopsy or lumpectomy• Screen women at high risks for breast cancer

Breast Ultrasound is primarily used to help identify and diagnose breast abnormalities by showing all areas of the breast, including problem areas found during a mammogram or physical exam. Ultrasounds also help determine if a potential breast abnormality, such as a lump, is either a benign cyst (fluid-filled) or a solid mass.

Schedule a Mammogram Today!Take 2 Minutes to make an Mammogram appointment online at ApptASAP.org, or call 281.637.7001.

ApptASAP.org

It’s easy...Schedule Your MammogramOnline Today.

Contact Us

CHI St. Luke’s Health– Sugar Land Hospital

1317 Lake Pointe ParkwaySugar Land, Texas 77478

P: 281.637.7000

CHIStLukesSugarLand.org

Physician Referral

To request a referral to one of our physicians, call our Physician Referral Team at 832.355.3627.

It’s Real: Men & Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is usually associated with women; however, men are also susceptible to the disease. Breast cancer in men is similar to women—a malignant tumor grows in the cells of the breast and gradually invades the surrounding tissues. Men who are diagnosed with breast cancer are often at higher stages than women, since the awareness level is much lower among men.

See a physician immediately if you experience the following:

• Lump or hard knot under or near the nipple, usually painless.

• Change in size or shape of breast

• Itchy, scaly or sore rash on nipple

• Dimpling, puckering or redness of skin of the breast

• Nipple discharge

Cree

kbend Dr.

Fluor Dr

Williams Trace Blvd.

Creekway Dr.

Lake Pointe

Lexington Blvd.

Southwest Fwy.

Main

St.

Eldrid

ge R

d.

Sugar Lakes Dr.

Dairy AshfordSugar Land

N

59

59

90

90

Broo

ks St

.

Hwy. 90A

Universit

y Blvd

.

Hwy. 6

Hwy.

6

Hwy.

41

CHI St. Luke’s Health–

Sugar Land

Breast Self-Exams

• In the shower. With your fingers, move around your breasts in a circular pattern from the outside to the center. Check for any lumps, thickening, or hardening knots.

• In front of a mirror. Look for any changes in the contour, any swelling, or dimpling of the skin, or changes in the nipples. Next, rest your palms on your hips and press firmly to flex your chest muscles. Look for any dimpling, puckering, or changes, particularly on one side.

• Lying down. Place a pillow under your right shoulder and your right arm behind your head. Move your fingers gently in small circular motions for any abnormalities in your breasts and armpits. Squeeze your nipples to check for discharge and lumps. If you discover a lump, contact your physician immediately.

Source: National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.

1 American Cancer Society2 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention3 National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.

8in1(12 percent) women in the US

will develop invasive breast cancer during their lifetime1. 70

age of

3 or 4 out of every 100 women who are 60 years old today will

get breast cancer by the

98%

When breast cancer is detected early, at

a localized stage, the five-year survival rate is

3

2

Facts About Breast Cancer

2ndBreast cancer is the

leading cause of cancer death in women, exceeded only by lung cancer.1

ApptASAP.org

It’s easy...Schedule Your MammogramOnline Today.

Contact Us

CHI St. Luke’s Health– Sugar Land Hospital

1317 Lake Pointe ParkwaySugar Land, Texas 77478

P: 281.637.7000

CHIStLukesSugarLand.org

Physician Referral

To request a referral to one of our physicians, call our Physician Referral Team at 832.355.3627.

It’s Real: Men & Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is usually associated with women; however, men are also susceptible to the disease. Breast cancer in men is similar to women—a malignant tumor grows in the cells of the breast and gradually invades the surrounding tissues. Men who are diagnosed with breast cancer are often at higher stages than women, since the awareness level is much lower among men.

See a physician immediately if you experience the following:

• Lump or hard knot under or near the nipple, usually painless.

• Change in size or shape of breast

• Itchy, scaly or sore rash on nipple

• Dimpling, puckering or redness of skin of the breast

• Nipple discharge C

reekbend Dr.

Fluor Dr

Williams Trace Blvd.

Creekway Dr.

Lake Pointe

Lexington Blvd.

Southwest Fwy.

Main

St.

Eldrid

ge R

d.

Sugar Lakes Dr.

Dairy AshfordSugar Land

N

59

59

90

90

Broo

ks St

.

Hwy. 90A

Universit

y Blvd

.

Hwy. 6

Hwy.

6

Hwy.

41

CHI St. Luke’s Health–

Sugar Land

Breast Self-Exams

• In the shower. With your fingers, move around your breasts in a circular pattern from the outside to the center. Check for any lumps, thickening, or hardening knots.

• In front of a mirror. Look for any changes in the contour, any swelling, or dimpling of the skin, or changes in the nipples. Next, rest your palms on your hips and press firmly to flex your chest muscles. Look for any dimpling, puckering, or changes, particularly on one side.

• Lying down. Place a pillow under your right shoulder and your right arm behind your head. Move your fingers gently in small circular motions for any abnormalities in your breasts and armpits. Squeeze your nipples to check for discharge and lumps. If you discover a lump, contact your physician immediately.

Source: National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.

1 American Cancer Society2 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention3 National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.

8in1(12 percent) women in the US

will develop invasive breast cancer during their lifetime1. 70

age of

3 or 4 out of every 100 women who are 60 years old today will

get breast cancer by the

98%

When breast cancer is detected early, at

a localized stage, the five-year survival rate is

3

2

Facts About Breast Cancer

2ndBreast cancer is the

leading cause of cancer death in women, exceeded only by lung cancer.1

fort bend magazine • October 2015 1

1730 Williams Trace Blvd, Ste K, Sugar Land, TX 77478

Phot

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Nes

ossi

Stu

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Shannon Maguadog, Pharm.D.

N

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Hwy

59/S

outh

wes

t Frw

y

Williams Trace

Hwy 6

Lexingto

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W

Compounding Corner Pharmacy, Inc.®

SINCE 2004

MEDICATION RESULTS LOT # REPORTED MEASURED POTENCY

Gabapentin (Vet) Suspension 35mg/mL 07072015@17 35mg/mL 36.8mg/mL 105%Methimazole 50mg/mL 07292015@7 50mg/mL 51.5mg/mL 103%Itraconazole (Triple Fish) 50mg/mL 07292015@8 50mg/mL 53.5mg/mL 107%Potassium Bromide 400mg Capsule 08242015@14 400mg 404mg 101%

PROCESS VALIDATED: How do you know it’s REALLY in there? The FDA allows manufacturers a +/- 20% error (There are several narrow therapeutic index exceptions). USP allows compounding pharmacies a +/- 10% error. We’ll let our potency testing speak for itself.

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The Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board (PCAB) accreditation is the highest attainable accreditation in compounding pharmacy. Make no mistake, they are the highest standards in the nation and the most difficult to achieve. Compounding Corner Pharmacy, Inc.® is the ONLY PCAB-Accredited pharmacy in Fort Bend County.

ACCREDITED:

Pets are family. Whether dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, ferrets, fish, iguanas or exotic species, we take medication seriously. We’re really good at what we do. Give us a call: 281-494-7777

http://www.compoundingcornerpharmacy.com/

USP <795> states: “...compound preparations are to be prepared to ensure that each preparation shall contain not less than 90% and not more than 110% of the theoretically calculated and labeled quantity of an active ingredient...”. Potency determinations follow USP <621> HPLC, USP <851> Spectophotometry, and specific monograph testing procedures.

Veterinary Compounded Medications

TO ADVERTISE: 281.690.4242 or www.fortbend .com • October 2015 2

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Breast tomosynthesis is an innovative, FDA-approved digital technology that helps your physician detect smaller tumors sooner – at the earliest stages of breast cancer. The 3-D imaging capability of tomosynthesis enables radiologists to see “inside” the breast, resulting in improved accuracy in screening for and pinpointing lesions.

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C O V E R S T O R Y

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 5

KAROL BEHNE’S BREAST CANCER EXPERIENCE: Turning a Negative into a PositiveKarol Behne’s battle against breast cancer began in December 2014 after a life changing diagnosis. But thanks to the physicians and staff at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, Behne is now a breast cancer survivor, who along with her husband Henry, is raising awareness and money for people with breast cancer. The team approach employed by the program’s physicians and staff ensures that every patient receives the best possible care and treatment in a comforting, compassionate manner.

14

F E AT U R E S

28 THE GEMS OF FORT BEND: MEET THREE GENEROUS, ENTHUSIASTIC MEN SERVING These men have dedicated their time to volunteer and give back to the community, and each one will be honored at a premier event featuring dinner, live entertainment and a “chips for charity” casino benefiting the Fort Bend Family YMCA.

48 WHEN WORRY BECOMES WORRISOME: The Difference Between Normal Stress and Anxiety Disorders

53 FOCUS ON THE CURE Educate yourself and your loved ones about breast cancer awareness and detection.

69 absolutely! PRETTY IN PINK See what the community is offering to support breast cancer awareness.

C O L U M N S

20 FOCUS ON FINANCE Summertime Blues

24 LEGAL FOCUS 10 Reasons Your Estate Plan Needs to be Revised

46 HIGH SCHOOL HOT SHOT Meet Aman Patel

70 SUPPORTING THOSE AFFECTED BY DOMESTIC VIOLENCEFor 35 years, Fort Bend Women’s Center has reached across socioeconomic, religious and educational backgrounds to bring healing and hope to victims of domestic and sexual violence.

96 LIVING THE SWEET LIFE: Halloween Portraits

Breast cancer survivor Karol Behne ringing the bell celebrating the conclusion of her chemotherapy treatments.Photo by Nesossi Studios.


CONTRIBUTORS

O C T O B E R 2 0 1 5 | V O L U M E 1 1 | N U M B E R 1 2

a b s o l u t e l y !A U T O R E V I E W

22 2016 FORD FUSION

N E W S W O RT H Y

72 12TH ANNUAL GULF COAST International Dragon Boat Regatta

73 FORT BEND COUNTY PANHELLENIC ALUMNAE Announces Events for the Year

76 THE FORT BEND JUNIOR SERVICE LEAGUE AND SPONSORS Partner for 15th Annual Sugar Plum Market

88 PARKS YOUTH RANCH Announces Cowboy Up 2015

FORT BEND RESIDENT CHRONICLES THE INTEGRATION OF ATHLETICS At the University of Houston in the 1960s

N E W T O T H E N E I G H B O R H O O D

75 BLAZE FAST FIRE’D PIZZA Brings Artisanal Eats to Sugar Land

M E D I C A L & B U S I N E S S

78 SUGAR LAND COUNCIL MEMBER HARISH JAJOO Announces Mayoral Campaign

86 MEDICAL FOCUS

a b s o l u t e l y !D E L I C I O U S

91 THE ARTIST’S PALATE Brandani’sRestaurant & Wine Bar

92 HOW TO HOST A Mad Scientist Halloween Party

I N E V E RY I S S U E

10 EXCLAMATION POINTS!

50 SEEN ON THE SCENE

80 AMATEUR PHOTO CONTEST

82 OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART OF THE BEND

94 COMMUNITY EVENTS

ON THE COVER:Jorge Darcourt, MD; Clive Shkedy, MD; Sandra Templeton, MD and Karol Behne.Photo by Nesossi Studios.

70

Zeenat Kassam MithaCultural Correspondent Page 70

46

Joan FrancesContributor Page 46

30

Patti Parish-Kaminskiabsolutely! focus mediaPage 30

Kerstin BrownTMS Serenity CenterPage 48

48

Steve KursarAuto Enthusiast Page 22

22

Alisa MurrayAlisa Murray Photography Pages 91 & 96

91

Will HardeeHardee Investment Group Page 20

20

T. Aaron DobbsRoberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey P.C. Page 24

24

Tim Cashion, DDS Teresa Cody, DDS

Call us now!281-377-3402

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WWW.FORTBENDFOCUS.COM

Fort Bend FocusTM Magazine is published by absolutely! focus media, 4655 Techniplex Dr., Ste. 700, Stafford, TX 77477. Copy-right© 2015 by absolutely! focus media. All rights reserved. Re-production without permission is strictly prohibited. Fort Bend FocusTM Magazine does not knowingly accept false or mis-leading advertising or editorial, nor do the publishers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Fort Bend FocusTM Magazine welcomes editorial submissions from its readers.

Vol. 11 No. 12October 2015

EXCLAMATION POINTS!THE INSIDE SCOOP STRAIGHT FROM THE TOP

Subscription requests are free to all Fort Bend addresses. Annual paid subscription

of $25 required outside the Fort Bend area.

Publishedby

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief, PATTI PARISH-KAMINSKI

Once Upon a Time . . .

Patti Parish-Kaminski

P U B L I S H E RE DI TOR- I N - C H I E FPatti Parish-Kaminski

A S S O C IAT E P U B L I S H E RJessica Kij

M A NAG I N G E D I T O R Sarah Bearden

AC C OU N T E X E C U T I V E SJennifer Elliott

Molly Ellis Kay Garrett

Andrea Rigamonti Suzanne Stiles

A RT DI R E C TOR Grace Belleza

G R A P H IC DE SIG N E RApril Roseberry

W E B DE SIG N E R Joey Belleza

O F F I C E A D M I N I S T R AT O R Adrienne Boring

P H O T O G R A P H E R Nesossi Studios

C O N T R I BU T O R S Kerstin Brown

T. Aaron DobbsJoan FrancesWill HardeeSteve Kursar

Zeenat Kassam MithaAlisa Murray

I N T E R N Santiago Ceballos

I N Q U I R I E S281-690-4242

E D I T O R IA L SU B M I S S I O N [email protected] FEEDBACK

Dear Patti,

On behalf of Fort Bend Pets Alive!, thank you for publishing an ar-ticle about our organization in your July 2015 issue of Fort Bend Focus. The public exposure greatly helps us in our mission of increasing posi-tive outcomes for companion animals in our county and city shelters.

Again, thank you for supporting our organization and the animals in our county who so need it!

Best,Cynthia Castaldo-WalshDirector, Fort Bend Pets Alive!

October is my absolute favorite month out of the year, and one thing that I look forward to each Octo-ber is sharing some personal, poignant stories about outstanding members of our community with our readers. For eight years, we have produced commu-nity events – first the JEWELS, now the GEMS – hon-oring amazing men and women in our community who give. I love getting to know these community servants and sharing their stories. I hope you will join us at GEMS this year benefitting the Fort Bend Family YMCA on Thursday, October 22nd. It’s a GEMS and jeans casino-themed evening, and it’s a tribute honor-ing Bob Hebert, Don Kerstetter and Steve Onstad – a fun-filled evening that you won’t want to miss!

Other stories that we share each October are part of our Focus on the Cure Breast Cancer Awareness section. Our cover features Karol Behne’s story and how she and her husband turned a negative into a positive with their racing boat Lucky Draw 777. These two are literally racing for the cure! Read about the amazing Methodist Sugar Land Hospital doctors who took “Team Behne” to the finish line. And, take a moment to read about early detection and the amazing resources we are fortunate to have in our community. These stories can save lives.

No October issue would be complete without some Halloween stories. We have some “spooktacular” recipes for the trick or treaters, and best of all, check out Liv-ing the Sweet Life for the most amazing Halloween transformations! Alisa Murray has a long-standing Halloween tradition called Theatrical Spooktacular where she transforms little ones into their dream characters. In honor of Halloween, Alisa shares some of her amazing portraits from her personal collection.

American poet Muriel Rukeyser said, “The universe is made of stories, not of atoms.” I hope you enjoy our stories as much as we enjoy bringing them to you.

Stay focused,

[email protected]

Facebook.com/FortBendFocus

Photo by Alisa Murray.


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In November 2014, the recently retired Behne had just fin-ished crossing off the first item on her list when she received word that a recent mammogram required further testing. She was referred to Dr. Sandra Templeton, a board certified breast surgeon at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, and her battle against breast cancer began.

Behne had long been a believer in annual mammograms because of her family history of breast cancer. Her mother is a breast cancer survivor, diagnosed in 1974 at the age of

44. Her treatment consisted of a radical mastectomy – there was no chemotherapy or reconstructive surgery. Today, phy-sicians have a wide range of tools at their disposal. And Beh-ne, fortunately, had the technological resources, as well as a compassionate, knowledgeable staff at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Cancer Center on her side.

As a young retiree – she retired from Lamar Consolidated ISD in July 2014 to care for her elderly mother – Behne had a bucket list of activities she wished to achieve. The initial item on that list was giving her first devotional to the ladies’ Bible study at her church, with a focus on not letting obstacles in your life define you.

“I was very nervous about giving the devotion,” Behne re-called. “Right before Bible study started, I got a phone call from my doctor’s office. I thought, ‘I can’t be distracted by this; I need to focus.’

After the opening devotional, Behne listened to the mes-sage from her doctor’s office saying the mammogram showed

Karol Behne’sBreast Cancer Experience:

T hanks to the physicians and staff at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, Karol

Behne is a cancer survivor who can keep working on her “bucket list.”

Turning a Negative into a Positive


Breast cancer survivor Karol Behne ringing the bell celebrating the conclusion of her chemotherapy treatments with Radiation Therapists Jennifer Pakeltis, Winston Phillips and Megan Hopkins.

Phot

o by

Nes

ossi

Stu

dios

.

microcalcifications, and she was being referred to Templeton for further testing. She immediately shared the news with her small study group and was so happy that she could im-mediately be placed on a prayer list.

When Behne picked up the results of her mammogram to take them to her appointment with Dr. Templeton, she looked at her report. Despite the medical terms she didn’t understand, she zeroed in on some key words: “microcalcifi-cations of the breast most likely malignant.”

“It took my breath away,” she said. “I couldn’t call my husband fast enough to tell him what I had read.” The words literally took Behne’s breath away. Her husband Henry did his best to calm her fears over the phone.

Behne’s mother was able to go with her to the initial appointment as support and as a second pair of ears. Her husband and mother remained her strong support system throughout her treatment.

A Life Changing Diagnosis

At the doctor’s office, Behne noticed the images of differ-ent stages of breast cancer and asked, “What stage am I?

Dr. Templeton said I was stage 0, and I thought, okay this is doable.” How-ever, once Behne told her about a tender lump un-der her arm – which she had just discovered over the weekend – everything changed.

Dr. Templeton per-formed an ultrasound in her office and was con-cerned with her findings. She immediately referred Behne to the Houston

Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land for a mam-mogram, an ultrasound of both breast and lymph nodes, and ordered biopsies of both areas.

“They have state-of-the-art technology but more impor-tantly, specialized radiologists who only image and diagnose breast diseases,” said Templeton. “This combination, as well as the team approach to treatment all in one place, make Houston Methodist Sugar Land the ideal facility to receive breast health care.”

“My initial appointment was on Monday, December 1st and biopsies were taken on Tuesday with an appointment scheduled on Friday to discuss test results. When I received a call Thursday evening from Dr. Templeton to tell me that the biopsy of the breast was malignant and that I had two malignant lymph nodes, I was shocked.

“Dr. Templeton wanted me to have this information be-fore I came in the next day so I could formulate any ques-tions. I was so appreciative of this,” Behne said. “The first thing you do is cry.”

Dr. Templeton explained the next day that she also need-

Dr. Sandra Templeton


ed additional testing to make sure the cancer had not metas-tasized or spread. Thankfully, the testing revealed that the cancer had not spread to other parts of her body.

Behne was diagnosed with right breast invasive duc-tal carcinoma. ER-positive, PR-positive and Her2-negative. Stage: T2N1. Her treatment plan would consist of six months of chemotherapy, then surgery and six weeks of radiation. Her first thought was, “This is going to be a long year.”

Team Approach to Care

It is not just technology and training that sets the Hous-ton Methodist Sugar Land Oncology Program apart. It’s the team approach employed by the program’s physicians and staff, who work together to ensure that every patient is re-ceiving the best possible care and treatment in a comforting, compassionate manner.

Dr. Jorge Darcourt, board certified in hematology and oncology and medical director of the Infusion Center, began Behne’s chemo treatment on December 22, 2014. “I didn’t want it to start that fast,” said Behne. “My son is in the Air Force, and he was about to be deployed to Iraq. And it was Christmas! However, I trusted Dr. Darcourt’s expertise. He explained what to expect with the chemotherapy and made sure all of my questions were answered. He is an amazing doctor. I never felt that he didn’t have my best interest at heart. Each time I met with him, all my questions – emo-tional and physical – were answered. I never felt like I was in the dark during this stage of my treatment.”

Karol and Henry Behne.

Phot

o by

Nes

ossi

Stu

dios

.

Dr. Jorge Darcourt

Dr. Clive Shkedy

T he Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land is excited to offer the latest in breast cancer screening ad-

vances, called low-dose radiation tomosynthesis, or 3D mam-mography. Utilizing advanced breast tomosynthesis technol-ogy improves the ability to detect breast cancer at the earliest stages while using the lowest radiation exposure available in the market.

Tomosynthesis provides clearer images and a more accurate screening than traditional mammograms, especially in women who have dense breast tissue. Radiologists pull images from varying perspectives to examine anything suspicious, reducing callbacks for further imaging.

The Genius™ 3D mammogram at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital requires no additional compression and takes just a few seconds longer than a traditional 2D mammogram. The low-dose 3D mammogram is the only breast tomosynthe-sis system approved by the FDA as clinically superior to con-ventional mammography.

Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land is committed to the fight against breast cancer. In offering 3D mammograms, the Breast Care Center provides the latest and most effective imaging tools for breast cancer screening.

“We are thrilled to offer tomosynthesis to our patients,” said Stephen W. Phillips, M.D., Medical Director of the Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land. “This new tech-

nology aids in early detection and strengthens the Breast Care Center’s fight against breast cancer.”

The Breast Care Center offers the most comprehensive services in the Fort Bend area, including all-digital mam-mography, molecular breast imaging, breast ultrasound, breast MRI, ultrasound biopsies, stereotactic biopsies and MRI-guided biopsies, all under one roof. If cancer is de-tected, the center provides access to clinical trials and the most advanced treatments available, such as chemothera-py, hormone, drug and radiation therapy. Innovative surgi-cal techniques and breast reconstruction surgeries are also available.

Breast Care Center manager and patient navigator Ja-mie Prinster said, “We are leading the fight against breast cancer. In addition to the state-of-the-art equipment, any-one who comes to Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land can expect to be treated as family. Our highly trained and dedicated team is devoted to walking our pa-tients through each step in their care. Should our patients receive a life changing diagnosis, we have a certified navi-gation team in place to provide support and education to ensure that we are continuing to provide the highest level of care from diagnosis to survival.”

For more information about this important breast health exam, contact Jamie Prinster, Breast Care Center man-ager and patient naviga-tor, at 281.275.0586. To schedule a mam-mogram at Houston Methodist Breast Care Center at Sugar Land, visit houstonmethodist.org/online-scheduling or call 281.242.PINK (7465).

By that spring, Behne was ready to celebrate with her team at Hous-ton Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Cancer Center. “On May 26, 2015, I was able to joyfully ring the bell in the

Infusion Center celebrating the end of my chemotherapy treatments. My hus-band and my mother were there with me to celebrate this huge accomplish-ment.”

Following chemotherapy, Temple-ton performed Behne’s breast surgery as the next part of her treatment plan. Dr. Clive Shkedy, radiation oncologist and medical director of Houston Meth-odist Sugar Land Hospital’s Cancer Center, played a pivotal role in Behne’s recovery by helping her with her treat-ment decision and radiation therapy. He made sure Behne felt like more than just another case.

“Providing a supportive, nurtur-ing environment and making patients feel at home is very important to their

well-being and eases the stress of go-ing through cancer treatment,” Dr. Shkedy said. “Behne received her treatment on our new TrueBeam ra-diation system.” Considered the gold standard in radiation treatment, True-

Breast Care Center

Low-Dose Radiation 3D Mammograms Now Offered at the



Henry Behne racing in Lucky Draw 777, which features a pink ribbon.

Beam advances cancer treatments by allowing doctors to de-liver powerful cancer treatments with pinpoint, 4D precision.

“Everyone there was fabulous,” Behne said of her experi-ence at the Houston Methodist Sugar Land Cancer Center. “Over the six-week span, I really built a relationship with the radiation therapists. They treated me like family and gave me so much more than radiation therapy – they helped me maintain a positive attitude during this difficult time.”

On August 26, 2015, Behne completed her treatment and rang the bell with her radiation care team and husband by her side. Behne is a breast cancer survivor and reminds ev-eryone of the importance of their yearly mammogram. The American Cancer Society guidelines for early detection of breast cancer consist of a combination of regular clinical breast examinations for women beginning in their 20s and an annual mammography beginning at age 40.

Supporting Breast Cancer Patients

Behne’s husband Henry is a professional dragboat racer with the Southern Dragboat Association and Lucas Drag-boat Series. When the Behnes received the breast cancer di-agnosis, Henry quickly turned to their Knotty Racing team Facebook page for prayers of healing. Within an hour, there

were 200 plus boating families responding to this call for prayer.

This amount of support sparked an idea for Henry to turn a negative into a positive by using his passion of boat racing to raise money for people with breast cancer. He went before the director and board of the Southern Dragboat Association and gained their sup-port. As a result, this year 25 percent of gate prices at all boat races will be given to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

The Behnes had T-shirts made and gave them to their team of doctors – Dr. Sandra Templeton, Dr. Jorge Darcourt and Dr. Clive Shkedy. They also had a pink ribbon painted on their boat and trailer to raise awareness of breast cancer. “We’ve definitely turned something negative into something positive,” Henry said.


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Welcome to Fort Bend’s newest and most innovative1,300 acre, master-planned community.

Thirty acres of waterways, 280 acres of greenbelts and open spaces,

50 acres of parkland, miles of nature trails, and sustainable community

gardens connect you to new friends and neighbors. With award-winning

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and Sugar Land via the Grand Parkway…

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Grand Pkwy.

WestparkTollway

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Summertime Blues

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S ummertime is here, and the market is doing its usual swoon. Long-time investors recognize

that May through September usually marks the low for the year while Janu-ary through April usually marks the high. This summer is no different. In particular, energy related stocks had a very difficult July as oil prices dropped over $10 a barrel. Exxon has dropped over 8% in the last six weeks and 23% since last October. Chevron is off over 14% and 28% respectively. This has been even more evident in the master limited partnerships where the index is down over 12% for six weeks and over 35% since last October.1

In the last three weeks, I’ve listened to over 30 company quarterly confer-ence calls, and for the most part, man-agements are becoming ultra conserva-

tive in their outlooks as they plan on lower oil prices for longer. However, all is not doom and gloom. Gasoline prices are dropping and might even see $2 a gallon this fall. Chemical companies continue to report very strong earn-ings as their feed stock costs drop. Cer-tain MLPs such as Calumet and Glo-bal Partners that use energy reported very strong earnings, and management paints a bright future. However, even these stocks are being treated like the others – shoot first, ask questions later.

Here is where we believe the op-portunity presents itself every sum-mer. The Macy’s Red Apple 2-for-1 sale has started. To buy low is never easy, because there is pain associated with it. Again, the themes of energy us-ers, growth over value and cybersecu-rity haven’t escaped from the summer

sell-off. These themes should reassert themselves in the next few months and make for a bright spring as rising earn-ings should bring rising prices. Therein is the opportunity to cure the “Sum-mertime Blues.”

This article provided by H. H. “Will” Hardee, AWM of the Hardee Investment Group and a Fi-nancial Advisor and Senior Vice President at RBC Wealth Management in Houston, and was pre-pared by or in cooperation with RBC Wealth Man-agement. The information included in this article is not intended to be used as the primary basis for making investment decisions nor should it be con-strued as a recommendation to buy or sell any spe-cific security. RBC Wealth Management does not endorse this organization or publication. Consult your investment professional for additional infor-mation and guidance. RBC Wealth Management does not provide tax or legal advice. RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC.*

1. Source: Thompson One quote screen.


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T he 2016 Ford Fusion looks and drives as fresh today as it did when it first appeared on Ameri-

can highways four years ago. This five- passenger family car is no boring, mid-size sedan that disappears into the scenery. The Fusion won’t get lost in the crowd with the rest of those ho-hum ve-hicles waiting in line at any school car-pool lane.

The 2016 Fusion is the second of its generation but the first mid-size Ford sedan that is a truly global vehicle. The first generation was sold only in North America, but previous Ford CEO Alan Mulally started the trend of introducing European models into American dealer-

ships. This second generation Fusion, marketed as the Mondeo in Europe, is characterized by two aspects crucial for all car buyers on the other side of the At-lantic: fuel economy and lively handling. And for 2016, there are several different engine options that make the Fusion an amazingly versatile performer.

The base 2016 Fusion has an MSRP of $22,110 and comes equipped with a 175 hp, 2.5 liter, four-cylinder engine that gets 22 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. Once you move up in the model’s line up, you have the op-portunity to opt for the lively 181 hp, 1.5 liter, four-cylinder Ecoboost engine that gets 25 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on

the highway. If you need more oomph, the top-of-the-line sporty engine is the 240 hp, 2.0 liter, four-cylinder Ecoboost with fuel economy numbers of 22 mpg city and 33 mpg highway.

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All Fusions feature Ford’s state-of-the-art Sync connectivity system, which allows the driver to not only make and answer hands-free phone calls but con-trol the climate, entertainment and navi-gation with just the sound of your voice. The 2016 Ford Fusion continues to deliv-er a complete package for the consumer that demands a stylish ride but wants a choice of either a family sedan, a sporty sedan or a green sedan. Take your pick!

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#10: Your Will was not drafted in Texas. Your will may be valid if it was drafted in another state, but those in-volved in probating your will in Texas can anticipate having to jump through additional legal hurdles – which likely also means additional attorney’s fees.

#9: Your marital status has changed. You will want to revise your will if you have gotten married, divorced or become widowed. Failing to update your will to remove a di-vorced or deceased spouse or to include a new spouse may have unintended consequences. This becomes all the more critical if you remarry and you or your new spouse has chil-dren from prior marriages.

#8: You had or adopted children. You may consider placing your child’s inheritance in a trust until he or she is mature enough to handle it appropriately. You may also for-mally designate a person to care for your children and to ad-minister their inheritance while they are young.

#7: A person named as a beneficiary or executor in your Will has died or is incapacitated. If the named executor dies or is unable to serve, attorneys and the court may become involved in appointing another person to serve. Likewise, should your will name a beneficiary who is now deceased, that beneficiary’s share may pass to someone you had not intended.

#6: Your estate has significantly increased or de-creased in value. If your estate has grown substantially, your current will may not include provisions designed to mitigate estate taxes. On the other hand, because Congress has made changes to tax laws, your estate no longer may be subject to estate or other transfer taxes. As a result, your will may include tax-planning features that are now unnecessary

and administratively burdensome.#5: You have a beneficiary with special needs. Proper

planning is critical to ensure that your beneficiary does not lose eligibility for essential government benefits as a result of receiving an inheritance from your estate.

#4: Your power of attorney is more than a couple years old. The Texas Legislature recently changed the laws relating to statutory durable powers of attorney. You run the risk of having a third party – like a bank – refuse to honor the power of attorney because it is not consistent with cur-rent law.

#3: You have purchased real property located out-side of Texas. If you own real property in multiple states, your will may have to be probated in each of those jurisdic-tions. However, your estate planning attorney can help you create a plan to avoid multiple time-consuming and costly probate proceedings.

#2: You are about to sell or transition away from your business. It can be difficult to operate a business upon the death or incapacity of a business owner. You can work with your estate planning attorney to mitigate future issues by taking steps now to update your business documents to include succession planning or redemption provisions.

#1: You do not yet have an Estate Plan! Without an estate plan, you give up control of how your estate will be dis-tributed and who will be your executor. When a person dies without a will, state law dictates these decisions.

10 Reasons Your Estate Plan Needs to be Revised

By T. Aaron Dobbs

Legal Focus

T. Aaron Dobbs is board certified in Estate Planning and Probate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and leads the Estate Planning, Probate and Trust practice of Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey PC from its Sugar Land office.

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Special Thanks to Our Official GEMS Sponsors

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Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land Bob & Pat HebertThe Swinging Door / S&S Steaks & SpiritsVincent Morales for Commissioner - Pct. 1

Safari Texas RanchHouston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital

Thursday, October Twenty Two, Two Thousand and Fifteen6:30 - 10 pm

Safari Texas Ranch Lodge11627 FM 1464 Richmond, Texas

Steve OnstadBob Hebert Don Kerstetter

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WEDDINGS | GALAS | CORPORATE MEETINGS | SPECIAL EVENTS

Safari Texas RanchA Gem of a Venue

Congratulations to the

GEMS of Fort Bend


F ort Bend Focus and absolutely! Brazos Magazines are proud to announce the 2015 GEMS of Fort Bend sched-

uled for Thursday, October 22nd. GEMS – Generous, Enthu-siastic Men Serving – is an annual absolutely! focus media initiative honoring three male role models whose contribu-tions to our community make them shine.

The 2015 GEMS were introduced at a brunch hosted by Joe and Doris Gurecky at their Historic Ebell House, which is the oldest brick home in downtown Rosenberg. The 2015 GEMS were joined by 2013 and 2014 GEMS, JEWELS of Fort Bend and community and event partners. The 2015 GEMS – Bob Hebert, Don Kerstetter and Steve Onstad – will be honored at a premier event featuring dinner, live entertainment and a “chips for charity” casino during the October 22nd event at the Safari Texas Ranch Lodge located in Richmond.

Proceeds from the evening event will be invested back into the Fort Bend community by supporting a non-profit organization whose mission is vital in our community: Fort Bend Family YMCA. The Fort Bend Family YMCA’s mission is to put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all. The Y is a cause-driven organization that is for youth devel-opment, healthy living and social responsibility because a

strong community can only be achieved when we invest in our kids, our health and our neighbors.

This is the third year Fort Bend Focus and absolutely! Brazos Magazines have hosted the GEMS of Fort Bend. Last year’s event was sold out and raised over $15,000 for its ben-eficiary, Texana Center. Over the past seven years with both the GEMS and JEWELS of Fort Bend events, Fort Bend Focus and absolutely! Brazos Magazines have contributed nearly $150,000 to eight Fort Bend non-profit organizations.

“Continuing our mission of giving back to our com-munity is paramount to our organization,” said Patti Parish-Kaminski, publisher of absolutely! focus media, the publishing company for Fort Bend Focus and absolutely! Brazos Magazines. “Honoring these three amazing men who have contributed to our community in extraordinary ways through GEMS is an honor for us. These men have helped mold our community into an exemplary place to live, work and raise our children. We are humbled by their stellar ex-amples of the true meaning of the word service.”

The GEMS of Fort Bend is open to the public. The GEMS and jeans themed event kicks off with the casino and cock-tails at 6:30 pm followed by dinner and live entertainment. Tables and individual tickets are available by contacting ab-solutely! focus media at 281-690-4242.

Fort Bend Focus andabsolutely! Brazos MagazinesHost the GEMS of Fort Bend


The 2015 GEMS of Fort Bend:Bob Hebert, Steve Onstad and Don Kerstetter. Photography shot on location by Nesossi Studios at the Vogelsang Antique Emporium.


Thank you for everythingyou do to make our community

a better place to live!

Neil & Carolyn Banfield

Congratulations 2015 Gems!

2014 GEM of Fort BendNeil Banfield

2010 JEWEL of Fort Bend Carolyn Banfield



GEMof

Fort Bend

Bob Hebert

By Patti Parish-Kaminski

S ome people have big jobs, and some people have really big jobs. For this GEM of Fort Bend, overseeing 2,700

employees, a $300 million budget and serving 710,000 resi-dents of one of the fastest growing counties in the nation is a really big job, but it is all in a day’s work. With a life de-voted to leadership and service, he began giving of himself, his time and his talents, long before he arrived in Fort Bend, and he’s never looked back.

Born in the Texas Panhandle, Bob Hebert grew up in the land of wheat and cattle. His dad worked for the railroad and made certain that his son had a good education. “I re-ceived a very good Catholic education, and I’m very thank-ful for that,” said Hebert. “The nuns helped prepare me for success.”

Following his graduation from Pampa High School in 1959, Hebert began his life of service by enlisting in the United States Navy where he trained and served as an Avia-tion Electronics Technician. As an Aircrewman with the Air-borne Early Warning Barrier Squadron, Pacific, he flew over 2,000 hours on patrol over the northern Pacific Ocean. He was on active duty for two years when he transferred to the University of Texas (UT) in Austin for a brief stint in college. That’s when his life changed forever.

He met Pat Pickler on a blind date at a UT football game filling in for a friend of a friend who at the last minute de-cided to cancel. “Pat’s blind date wanted to go out with a girl he had been chasing, so a friend asked me if I wanted a date to the football game. That sounded like a fine idea to me.”

Two weeks later, the two were engaged, and six months later, the newlyweds moved to Hawaii. “I knew she was the girl I wanted to marry. I married way above my paygrade,” laughed Hebert. Honoring his commitment to the Navy,

Hebert returned to the fleet for 20 months to complete his service. “Pat joined me in Hawaii. It was a great first year of marriage there.”

With a newborn daughter and another on the way, Hebert was discharged from the Navy, and the family returned to Houston. Hebert was enrolled at the University of Houston, but with another baby coming, he dropped out to provide for his growing family. Within a year, they bought a house in Alief. “We thought that house was the greatest thing in the world,” said Hebert of their 930 square foot home. “We loved it. I still drive by it every year or so.”

With a toddler, a new baby and a new home, Pat decided that it was time to get involved in their new community. “As Bob likes to tell it, we had gotten our first home in Alief, and he was sitting on the couch. The community was trying to form a homeowners association (HOA), and I told Bob that I’d really like for him to go. He went to the meeting, came back as president of the new HOA and the rest is history,” said Pat.

After becoming HOA president, Hebert helped start the Alief Community Volunteer Fire Department. “We had a 25 year-old fire truck loaned to us, and we parked it at a service station close to our house. There were two of us who drove the truck, and when the bell rang, we headed for the station, got the truck and sat there until Pat advised us by radio where were going,” recalled Hebert. With Pat as dispatcher and Bob driving the truck, team Hebert served the volunteer fire department for seven years. Hebert was working during the day and at night, he was attending South Texas Junior College trying to obtain his Associate’s Degree, a three-year program, so he could attend South Texas College of Law and become an attorney. When he graduated with his degree, the Texas legislature changed the law, and a four-year degree was required for admission to law school, changing Hebert’s plans.

Trained in electronics in the Navy, Hebert worked for Xe-rox as a new product technician. Perhaps one of the most historic projects he worked on was the Apollo launch. He oversaw the Xerox machine that printed out pre-flight data on manned mission launches. With this technology in place,

NASA no longer had to fly the data to Mis-sion Control at 4 am; the data was printed out on-site with the technology similar to a fax machine. “Once I saw the pre-flight data was working and all was clear, I went home, but until the data was released, I sat there

Bob and Pat Hebert on their wedding day,April 6, 1963.


in Building 30 at Mission Control.”

In 1972, a unique problem presented itself to Hebert. “I was active in our community, and we had a problem in our wa-ter district,” said Hebert. “Neighbors asked me if I would put something to-gether to assist with our water issues, and so as a favor to our neighbors, I did.”

This “favor” was ECO Resources, Inc. While be-ing a homeowner led to a great deal of success for Hebert in the community, it was also the catalyst to assisting him with starting ECO, as he used the equity in his home to finance his new venture. He ran the company, which operated and managed more than 125 Municipal Utility Districts, for 13 years, continued his education “as best he could,” and retired at 44.

But retirement did not agree with Hebert. In 1985, the Heberts had moved to Fort Bend. “By 45, I had a non-com-pete as a consultant with ECO, I volunteered with the Small Business Administration to help small businesses during the recession and I graduated with a Master of Business Ad-ministration from Pepperdine University.”

When Hebert’s five year non-compete expired, he did what he did best: founded another small service company. “It took off within a year doing very well.” The company that purchased ECO bought Hebert’s new company – now South-west Water Company – and contracted him to serve as a senior consultant in management.

Working in the water industry, Hebert’s vast business ex-perience led him to do something he had always done: serve. He served for seven years as Vice Chair of the Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council, Chairman of the Na-tional Council for Public-Private Partnerships in Virginia, co-founded Global Initiatives and stepped in for the City of Arcola when they needed his help. “I served eight years as Receiver for the City of Arcola when they got into financial difficulty. I was able to help them get back on their feet. It was a very positive outcome for the City.”

Fast forward to 2003 when Hebert was elected as Fort Bend Constitutional County Judge, and the positive out-comes, along with his commitment to the community he pre-sides over, are vast. “It is unique that Bob as a judge does so much community service, but that’s nothing new to him,” said friend and business associate Bob Brown, who has known Hebert since 1977. “Bob has always been involved and supportive of our community long before he was judge.

He understands the importance of stewardship both profes-sionally and personally.”

While Hebert supports a vast number of community or-ganizations, he does have a few that are close to his heart. “I support many causes but anything to do with raising the status of women and protecting women and children is im-portant to me – the Women’s Center, Child Advocates. My wife and three daughters raised me and molded me into what I am today.”

Of course, Hebert has never limited his support to those areas. “I understand that there is a broad level of need. We have a duty to give back, and I am pleased to do it. I am con-vinced that the satisfaction I get out of giving pays dividends that can’t be measured in dollars and cents.”

Another meaningful part of Hebert’s life that cannot be measured in “dollars and cents” is his family. “I’m most proud of having the good sense to marry my lovely wife. Without her, I would not have achieved much of what I have achieved in life and certainly would not have been as happy.” The family-oriented Heberts raised three daughters, and their daughters raised five “excellent young men and good Ameri-cans.” Two of Hebert’s grandsons have followed in his grand-father’s footsteps of service. Robbie McKnight served four years active duty in the United States Navy, and CWO Nick Hannes is an Army Apache pilot serving in the Middle East. And now, there’s a great-grandson, Kayson McKnight, to add to the Hebert clan.

Hebert’s philosophy is simple: “I tried to leave every orga-nization I worked with better off. If you can do that, I think that’s a success.” For his devotion to leadership and service, for perhaps having the biggest job of them all in Fort Bend and for his commitment to giving – both in and out of office –absolutely! Brazos and Fort Bend Focus Magazines are proud to honor Bob Hebert as a GEM of Fort Bend.

Bob Hebert speaking at a Fort Bend County Leadership Presentation in 2009.

Ray and Patsey McKnight, Ernie and Cindy Layman, Shelley and Bud Hannes and Bob and Pat Hebert.


We applaud your outstanding service to the community.

713-995-260010025 Southwest Freeway • Houston, Texas 77074

Congratulations 2015 GEMS of Fort Bend


There’s Wealth in Our Approach.™

The Hardee Investment Group would like to send a special “thank

you” to Bob Hebert, Don Kerstetter and Steve Onstad for being

the “GEMS” of our community! Your dedication, generosity and

enthusiasm are an inspiration to us all.

Proud supporters of the Gems and Jeans gala event!

© 2015 RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC.

Congratulations!

H A R D E E I N V E S T M E N T G R O U P

Hardee Investment Group

(713) 853-0879 Toll Free: (800) 838-0757www.hardeeinvestmentgroup.com

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Houston, TX 77002

15-HC-462_7.25x9.75 ad c.indd 1 8/31/15 1:32 PM fort bend magazine • October 2015 33


GEMof

Fort Bend

Don Kerstetter


It is human nature to want to make a difference in whatever you do – to be a positive influence and cause change for the

better. For this GEM of Fort Bend, making a difference is more than just a saying; it’s a way of life. You see, when he arrived in Fort Bend, he chose to make a difference – in a big way – by creating a business that not only cares about community but demonstrates it with unbridled support for many organizations and causes.

When you hear the words, “Relax…and enjoy the differ-ence,” Don Kerstetter and Classic Chevrolet immediately come to mind. It’s a brand – and a business – he’s built by embody-ing the values instilled in him as a young man by his father: hard work, a good education and a generous heart. “One of the earliest things I remember my dad telling me was that I was going to go to college,” said Kerstetter. That was a tall order for the son of an USAF Master Sergeant who worked three jobs to support his family and educate his children. Eventually, all six Kerstetter kids from Columbus, Mississippi earned college degrees.

After graduating from Ole Miss in 1987, Kerstetter went into sales. “I recognized an industry that was starved for talent because they were always advertising for good people.” This industry was the automobile industry. “I got into the car busi-ness and immediately figured out how demanding it truly was. I applied the same principles of martial arts into selling cars – positive mental attitude, discipline, focus, determination and the grit to bounce back up when you get knocked down.”

Kerstetter was working with Classic Chevrolet in Grape-vine, Texas selling cars in the summer of 1994 when he received a phone call that changed his life. He had met a young lady in Dallas and began dating her in 1990. By 1993, Jackie had become his wife. “There I was, scrambling to make a sale one day when Jackie called me and said, ‘Guess who’s pregnant? We are!’ After I came back to earth, I immediately got on the

phone because I knew with a baby coming, I needed to get a job in management. I received three prospects and an offer and quickly took it. When I left, I made it known that I would return immediately if a management opportunity at Classic became available.”

That opportunity came just 90 days later. “Happily, I was hired as a manager at the best Chevy dealership in the Unit-ed States owned by the finest dealer group in the country.” Through hard work and determination, Kerstetter became leader of the finance department, and 10 years after he began his career with Classic, he was informed that he would be con-sidered for partnership when the right time came along. “That opportunity was still five years down the road, and I had to con-tinue to prove myself over and over. Eventually, I received the best opportunity of all.”

That opportunity was to take over a large dealership in Sug-ar Land with a questionable reputation. “For a few years, the number one Chevy dealership in the entire United States was located in Sugar Land. They were first in sales and absolute dead last in ethics and customer satisfaction. We were watching the store closely, hearing complaints from both customers and General Motors’ employees. We knew that there were issues, but we truly had no idea just how bad the prior owners had abused the community’s trust. Our Grapevine location passed the Sugar Land store in 2006 and became the highest volume Chevy store in the United States. Three years later, I bought the Sugar Land location when the customer abuse – and the worst recession in 40 years – put them out of business perma-nently.”

As soon as Kerstetter arrived in February of 2009, he be-gan hearing the horror stories as the community was not shy about sharing their bad experiences. “One of the first days I was here, I went to the bank to cash a check. I told the two bank tellers helping me that I had bought the Chevy dealership in Sugar Land. They literally recoiled turning their backs on me.” Kerstetter asked the ladies, who shared their bad experience, for a chance. “I asked them to give me a chance – I had literally just got here! I promised them that I was committed to making a difference.” Fortunately, the ladies did give him a chance, and both soon became customers.

“I had no idea – it was stunning how unbelievably negative literally everyone’s perception of the dealership was despite new ownership,” recalled Kerstetter. “I worked six days a week, 12 to 14 hours a day to turn that perception around and make

Jackie, Grace, Don and Jacob Kerstetter.


Classic Chevrolet a business that Fort Bend would be proud of.”Kerstetter’s efforts concentrated not only on customer ser-

vice – in 2015 Classic was named a Chevrolet Dealer of the Year for the fifth consecutive year – but community service. He vis-ited with community leaders and soon had a plan. “Dee Koch was one of the most influential people I spoke to. She told me that I needed a plan because everyone would ask for money, and I couldn’t afford to give to everyone.” Kerstetter joined the Ex-change Club and went through the Chamber’s Leadership Pro-gram. “Meeting people and participating in groups helped me develop a better understanding of the obstacles I inherited from the previous owner.” One day early on, Commissioner James Patterson came by the dealership to meet Kerstetter. “Com-missioner Patterson was, and still is, instrumental in helping me understand the needs of this community. I have learned so much about people and about Fort Bend from him.”

High School during my first week here,” said Kerstetter, who gave the school $3,000 for new batting cages. “I know I can’t give large amounts to all organizations, but I can give small amounts to many. I just don’t like saying ‘no.’ I made a career out of saying ‘yes’ to people.”

Kerstetter and Classic Chevrolet have served as primary sponsors for the annual Fort Bend Women’s Center event, The Arc of Fort Bend’s annual golf tournament and the Exchange Club of Sugar Land’s annual event. “Exchange taught me a lot about giving back. There isn’t a more generous group of people in the whole county.”

While Kerstetter gives to many charitable organizations, those helping women and children have his heart. “Before my mother married my father, she was a victim of an abusive mar-riage in 1949. At only 18 years old and with an infant son, she possessed an incredible mental and spiritual strength that gave her the courage to walk away. The reason I am here is because she had the courage to do that. This is one of the reasons why I feel so strongly about the Fort Bend Women’s Center.”

With his family’s military service, Kerstetter has a great love and respect for serving and retired members of the U.S. Armed Forces. In September, this culminated with Classic Chevrolet, in partnership with Operation Finally Home and Tilson Homes, awarding a mortgage free, new home to a disabled combat vet-eran. “All I asked of Operation Finally Home was that they lo-cate the home for a veteran and their family in Fort Bend. It was a privilege for me to be a part of that ceremony.”

Law enforcement is another arena that Kerstetter is pas-sionate about. “The negative atmosphere created by the media over the last year or two regarding law enforcement has reso-nated strongly with me and has reinforced my commitment to local law enforcement. We have strong community support for them and raised over $50,000 this year for the Sugar Land Po-lice Officer’s Association at our annual Classic Chili Cookoff.”

Kerstetter and Classic have come a long way since that day in 2009 when Kerstetter landed in Sugar Land. He was seek-ing to revitalize a failed business that had totally alienated the entire community. “I think the hardest thing that I have ever done was changing this community’s viewpoint of what a Chevy dealer should be. The community was embarrassed by the for-mer dealership and rightly so. Today, I am proud that I provide employment for 250 employees and help make their lives better. The fact that my employees – and the community – depend on me motivates me as much as anything.”

Kerstetter’s philosophy for business and community go hand in hand. “If you do a good job and the community supports you, charitable leadership is absolutely essential. It demonstrates faith in your community, as they have demonstrated their faith in you. Giving back is vital for your own mental and spiritual health, as well as for the health of your community.” For his tenacity to turn a negative into a positive, for his willingness to say “yes” as much as possible, and for his commitment to making a difference, absolutely! Brazos and Fort Bend Focus Magazines are proud to honor Don Kerstetter as a GEM of Fort Bend.

Don Kerstetter with John Robson and Betty Baitland at theSugar Land Exchange Club Spaghetti Cook-Off.

While Kerstetter was making an effort to change the com-munity’s perception of the dealership, not everyone was easily won over. “I met Bob and Carole Brown in April of 2009, and Bob told me he would never buy a car from this dealership.” Bob concurred. “I told Don that he had a big job to do and a lot of problems to solve. There were a lot of people very upset over how they were treated.” Bob told Kerstetter that he could go far by getting involved in the community, and that’s exactly what he did.

“Bob Brown has been a mentor. I knew that I could sure mess things up by not learning from people as revered and loved as Bob and Carole. They are true role models and always lead by example. I knew that it would be a great challenge, but it was obvious that if I could win Bob over – reassure him that I was a businessman to be trusted – then I would be in good shape.”

Kerstetter has what he refers to as “his most treasured pos-session,” a note from the Browns congratulating him on his first year. “Don’s done everything and more that he said he was going to do,” said Bob. “We are proud to have him in our community.”

But did Kerstetter win Bob over enough to do business with him? “My family has bought eight trucks from Don,” said Bob. “He doesn’t just listen; he does.”

When Kerstetter “does,” he “does” in a big way. He has sup-ported numerous Fort Bend organizations from local churches to law enforcement to youth organizations. “I supported Dulles





GEMof

Fort Bend

Steve Onstad


B ar-b-que is a staple in Texas cuisine, and most Fort Bend residents know that there’s a down home, back to basics

restaurant complete with its own dance hall that serves some of the best bar-b-que that the state has to offer. They might even know the proprietor and chef behind this great food and Fort Bend institution, but what they might not know is that this GEM of Fort Bend gives, not to one organization, but to many and has for nearly 40 years.

Steve Onstad moved to then rural Richmond as a young boy with his family. The Richmond of Onstad’s youth was not like the Richmond we know today. “Moving to Richmond was a big culture shock,” recalled Onstad. “There were no sidewalks, no neighbors. We learned to ride horses, raise ani-mals, and it was big time to go to Schultz’s store to get a Coke and an ice cream sandwich.”

The barn-shaped house that Onstad and his four siblings were raised in still stands today on FM 359 next to his res-taurant, which is a Fort Bend landmark: The Swinging Door. Living in the country taught Onstad many lessons, the most important of which was to help your neighbors. “Growing up, we weren’t just part of a family; we were part of a neighbor-hood. Everybody knew everybody, and one of the first things my dad taught me was that when somebody was sick or need-ed help, you helped out. It was standard issue to help your neighbors in times of trouble.”

Onstad graduated from Lamar High School and left for then Southwest Texas State University. After two years of “social studies,” he decided to change course. “Dad said get a job or join the service, so I went to work.” In 1973, Onstad and his dad, Ward, built a small, wood frame business on FM 359 in anticipation of a 1,000 acre subdivision scheduled to be built by Friendswood Development in the area. The devel-

opment project fell through, but when Pecan Grove sprang up a few years later, Onstad’s business took off.

The Swinging Door opened Labor Day in 1973. “I started out with 12 chairs inside and a little patio. It was a dinky little place, but it was mine. Dad and I built it, and I ran it.”

It wasn’t long before the business grew, and Onstad added on building an adjacent dance hall. His dad was in the Real Estate business at the time, and he ran the dance hall while Onstad ran the growing restaurant. “During the late 70s and into the 90s, we were kind of far out. To make it worth peo-ple’s while to drive out, I decided to make The Swinging Door a complete package where folks could eat, dance and listen to live music.”

Much like another large dance hall during the same era – Gilley’s – The Swinging Door became a popular destina-tion for Houstonians including many famous ones. “The Oil-ers would come out on Thursday nights, sit in the back and hold court,” said Onstad, who became friends with many of the players during the “Luv Ya Blue” days including Dan Pastorini and Giff Nielsen. “I would close off the back of the restaurant so they could sit back there and drink beer.”

The Monday Night Football crew – Don Meredith, How-ard Cosell and Frank Gifford – all came out to The Swing-ing Door, and Earl Campbelll spent the night celebrating after he became a Houston Oiler at the Richmond institution with buddies. “Giff brought the entire Osmond family out one time, and we’ve had our share of politicians and Saudi princes join us over the years.”

Friend Dan Pastorini brought a special guest out one night when he was on a date, and the restaurant was closed for a private party. Onstad led the party of two to the back, and his customers “like to fell out of their chairs when those two walked in.” Pastorini’s date was Farrah Fawcett. “She was just as pretty in person as in her photos and so nice. Mo-ments like that were kind of special to me.”

Steve Onstad with his son David Carriere and daughter Michaela Filla.


Other special moments during Onstad’s career revolve around his long list of community service. A past president and member of Rotary Club of Richmond for nearly 40 years, Onstad has made his mark with food not only at The Swing-ing Door, but at charity events for years. One of the Rotary Club’s largest fundraisers each year is selling turkey legs at the Fort Bend County Fair during the 10 day event, and Onstad is the man in charge. “Steve almost unilaterally gets everything together for our booth at the fair – supplies, food, equipment – literally everything,” said fellow Rotarian and long-time friend Elizabeth Duff-Drozd. “Steve’s generosity and willingness to do anything for the community and our charitable organizations is what makes him special. He’s not afraid of hard work and will roll up his sleeves to help out whenever he can.”

Onstad has been a “Man Who Cooks” benefitting the La-mar Educational Awards Foundation, provided dinner for the Foster and Fort Bend Museum’s events and served up his famous bar-b-que at Reading Between the Wines benefitting the Literacy Council of Fort Bend. But perhaps the groups that have had the most impact on Onstad have been his in-volvement with organizations supporting individuals with disabilities. Onstad hosted a bowling banquet for Richmond State Supported Living Center for over 10 years. The resi-dents traveled to a bowling alley then out to The Swinging Door for a good time. “To the Richmond State School resi-dents, the event was special. Seeing their joy and watching them so carefree, everyone dancing with no age, race or gen-der barriers, made it special to me. It was uplifting to watch them and be a small part of their lives.”

Onstad has also catered the ARC’s Best in the West for nearly 20 years, and when he’s not volunteering or running his restaurant, he’s acting as a mentor for the over 1,500 peo-ple – many young – who have worked at The Swinging Door

over the years. “Impacting youth in a positive way during their formative years is a special thing,” said Onstad. “I take pride in the fact that I have former employees introducing me to their children telling them that when they get old enough to work, this is the first place they would let them work.” Many of Onstad’s former employees have expressed their ap-preciation as a positive influence on their lives, and some of his employees are third generation employees.

While Onstad has served as a role model to many, his role model was his dad. “Dad was a worker; he believed in hard work and getting it done. That’s how he had to live, and that’s how he raised five kids. We were well taken care of, but he sacrificed a lot so we could have the things we had.”

The Onstad philosophy of working together has trans-lated into the next generation of family. Onstad’s daughter, Michaela Filla, is in the food business with her dad running The Swinging Door at the Fort Bend Country Club. The third generation – Onstad’s three grandsons – love running around the restaurants. “The boys do run the show,” said Onstad of his grandsons, ages 10, eight and six. “Reed, the 10 year-old, is taking culinary lessons at his school. He likes being in the kitchen. It would be neat to get a third generation involved down the road.”

Onstad’s philosophy of service is straight forward. “I’ve always been willing to help out when I could for the right cause, and I tried my best to make a positive difference in the community.” For his willingness to help, his passion for mentoring youth and his 40 plus years of giving whenever and however he could, absolutely! Brazos and Fort Bend Fo-cus Magazines are proud to honor Steve Onstad as a GEM of Fort Bend.

Steve Onstad at The Swinging Door.

Robert and Michaela Filla, David Carriere, Marci Moss, Steve Onstad and Jackson, Reed and Noah Filla.

Photos by Hartwell Photography


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Meet Aman Patel

By Joan Frances

Aman

HOT SHOTHigh School

D ulles High School “success-fully prepares all students for the 21st century by

building character, developing tech-nology skills and creating lifelong learners through a tradition of ex-cellence and rich cultural diversity.” The teachers and administration at this Fort Bend ISD high school graduate seniors of the highest caliber of education. One senior who has a great passion for learning and an impressive resumé is Aman Pa-tel.

Aman is a student at the Math and Science Academy. He is a straight “A” scholar in all Advanced Place-ment (AP) and honors level classes. His discipline has brought him to achieve unprecedented success every year of his high school career. Since his freshman year, Aman has been a member of Dulles High School Phys-ics Bowl Team and placed first in the Texas and New Mexico Region. This past year, his team placed third in the United States, and Aman placed 96th in individual score globally.

As a member of the Dulles High School National Science Bowl Team for the past two years, Aman and his team placed first at the Texas A&M Regional and seventh at the

national competition this year. Aman also placed first in science in both the University Interscholastic League and Texas Math and Science Coaches Association (TMSCA) state science competitions and achieved high scores in both Biology and Chemistry Olym-piads. At the Academic World Quest this year, Aman placed first at the regional competition. He is the recipi-ent of the National Geographic Learn-ing’s AP Student of the Year Award.

In addition to his commitment to academics, Aman plays competitive tennis and is a recreational cello play-er. He is also devoted to school clubs and activities. He is the founder and president of SciNOW Club. This orga-nization supports high school students in starting after-school science enrich-ment programs at local elementary schools with the mission of cultivating a lifelong interest in science. Last year, the club served over 120 students.

When asked what value he lives by, Aman said, “I always make it a point to engage in activities I am pas-sionate about. I love science, commu-nity service and sports, and as a result, these are very important parts of my life. Although my schedule is extremely busy, I look forward to and enjoy every activity.”

Aman is vice president of the Sci-ence National Honor Society and an inducted member of Mu Alpha Theta, Spanish Honor Society and National Honor Society. Aman said, “Many experiences go into truly be-coming a leader, and one of the most fulfilling parts of leadership is the ability to share those experiences with others. Regardless of the activ-ity – whether it is teaching science to elementary school students, orga-nizing a district-wide science compe-tition or representing Dulles High School at a national event – leader-ship necessitates a huge personal investment. When the outcome is favorable, however small, the result-ing feeling is unparalleled.”

In his free time, Aman is engaged in several enrichment activities. He is a tutor, a member of the Fort Bend Astronomy Club and a volunteer at the Houston Museum of Natural Sci-ence. He is also involved in research relating to malaria at the University of Houston.

Aman plans to major in a scien-tific field and is currently narrowing down which college he will attend. Congratulations on your extensive accomplishments Aman, and good luck in your future endeavors.

“Many experiences go into truly becoming a leader, and one of the mostfulfilling parts of leadership is the ability to share those experiences with others.” - Aman Patel



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functional,” stated Dr. Cress. “You feel like it’s affecting your relationships, work and ability to enjoy yourself. You can’t turn it off.”

How do you know whether this is typical stress or worry or if you have GAD? Dr. Cress noted some major dif-ferences:

Normal Worry: • Worrying does not interfere with

your relationships, job or social life.

• You feel that your concerns are controllable and can be dealt with at a later time.

• Your worries cause only mild distress.

• A specific cause initiated your worrying.

• Worry only lasts for a brief period with a beginning and an end.

• Worry isn’t usually accompa-nied by physical or psychological symptoms.

GAD: • Worrying significantly interferes

with work or social activities.• You feel that your worrying is out

of your control.• Your worries are very distressing

and pervasive.• Worrying began for no reason.• Three or more physical or psycho-

logical symptoms occur with your worrying, such as sleep prob-lems, irritability, tense muscles, problems concentrating, fatigue or restlessness.

Chronic worry and stress can also trigger a host of health issues. The problem occurs when fight or flight is triggered daily by excessive worrying and anxiety. The fight or flight response causes the body’s sympathetic nervous system to release stress hormones, such as cortisol. These hormones can boost blood sugar levels and triglycerides (blood fats) that can be used by the

Y ou’re worried about X, Y and Z. You obsess about them for hours every day, maybe for

weeks. It’s safe to assume that most of us have experienced stress in one form or another, whether it’s a deadline at work, a family conflict or an important decision. But, contrary to popular be-lief, there is a difference between nor-mal stress and anxiety.

Dr. Kimberly Cress, Medical Direc-tor at the TMS Serenity Center, says the main difference between worry and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is that the symptoms start to cause dys-function and are more frequent with GAD. Excessive stress and worry about a variety of everyday problems that is disproportionate to the events and that linger six months or more can indicate GAD. One recent study found that people without GAD tended to worry an average of 55 minutes a day, while those with GAD worried for 310 min-utes each day. That’s one hour of worry compared to five.

Stress and worry are the body’s reactions to a circumstance or situa-tion that requires a physical, mental or emotional adjustment or response. While people typically associate stress with negative responses, it can be caused by any change – even positive ones.

Anxiety is a general term for several disorders that cause nervous-ness, fear, apprehension and worry. Anxiety disorders are the most com-mon mental illnesses in America, af-fecting around 18 percent of the United States’ population in any given year and almost 30 percent of American adults across their lifespan. The aver-age age of onset is 31 years-old and af-fects twice as many women as men.

Anxiety can become a problem when your worry flip switch gets stuck to the “on” position. “It starts to become dys-

body for fuel. The hormones also cause physical reactions such as:

• Difficulty swallowing• Dizziness• Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)• Fast heartbeat• Fatigue• Headaches• Irritable bowel with diarrhea

and/or constipation• Irritability• Muscle aches• Muscle tension• Nausea, knots in the stomach• Nervous energy• Rapid breathing• Shortness of breath• Sweating• Trembling and twitchingWhen to Get Help:Many will see their general physi-

cian numerous times to address their physical complaints, but they are not aware that GAD is the cause. When in-dividuals struggle with multiple physi-cal symptoms throughout the body, the common denominator is anxiety.

GAD is typically treated with psycho-therapy, medications or both. However, when an individual cannot tolerate medications due to side effects, or they continue to suffer from anxiety despite numerous medications, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Therapy is a great treatment option.

If you’re struggling with overwhelm-ing anxiety, don’t hesitate to seek help. Contact a mental health professional if you are feeling overwhelmed by stress, excessive worry or if you feel stress is affecting your health. “We’ve had great success treating patients who suffer from anxiety with TMS Therapy,” Dr. Cress stated. “We’re able to turn the worry switch ‘off’ and get patients back to enjoying their lives again.”

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When Worry Becomes Worrisome: The Difference Between

Normal Stress and Anxiety Disorders

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the second-deadliest cancer affecting American women. As oncologists, we often hear misconceptions about the disease from patients. It’s important to have the facts and dispel common myths surrounding breast cancer.

Myth No. 1:You’ll only get breast cancerif you have a family history.

A higher risk of developing breast cancer can be inherited through gene mutations. “Only five to 10 percent of cancers are from inherited gene mutations, and many women diag-nosed with breast cancer do not have a family history of the disease,” said Dr. Michelina Cairo, medical oncologist, Texas Oncology–Houston Memorial City.

If you have a strong family history of cancer, genetic test-ing can identify your risk for certain cancer types, including breast and ovarian. Reducing risk and detecting cancer early are the most important things people can do to protect their health.

Myth No. 2: If you are diagnosed with breast cancer,

you must have your breasts removed.

A breast cancer diagnosis does not automatically result in a mastectomy. The type and stage of the cancer will im-pact the need for a mastectomy or lumpectomy. Treatment

options, often used in combination, can include radiation, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, bone-directed therapy or hormone therapy.

A clinical trial may offer the best approach to fighting can-cer. Texas Oncology, through its affiliation with US Oncology Research, has contributed to the approval of more than 50 FDA-approved cancer-fighting drugs, nearly one-third of all cancer therapies approved by the FDA to date.

“Patients interested in participating in a trial should con-sult with their oncologist to determine eligibility, benefits and risks,” said Dr. Frankie Ann Holmes, medical oncologist, Texas Oncology–Houston Memorial City.

Myth No. 3: Lumps in your breasts

mean you have breast cancer.

Many conditions may cause breast lumps, including be-nign conditions. It’s important to pay attention to other less-known symptoms of breast cancer, including change in breast size or shape; thickening of breast or underarm; nipple retraction or discharge; dimpled skin near the breast; ten-derness or pain in breast or nipple; a lump under your arm or around the collarbone or irritation, redness, scaliness or swelling on the breast, nipple or skin near the nipple.

While these are symptoms of breast cancer, changes in your breasts can also indicate non-cancerous conditions. “Consult your physician immediately if you experience any of the symptoms above,” said Dr. Holmes.

Myth No. 4: Breast cancer only affects women.

Breast cancer is more common in women; however, men can also be diagnosed. About one in 1,000 men will be diag-nosed with breast cancer in his lifetime. Breast cancer can have a huge impact on the lives of those diagnosed and their families. While it cannot be completely prevented, there are steps women can take to decrease their risk.

“Regular exercise, limiting alcohol intake and maintain-ing a healthy body weight may reduce your breast cancer risk,” said Dr. Cairo. “With regular screenings and advanced technology and treatments, more people than ever are sur-viving this disease.”

Dr. Michelina CairoTexas Oncology–

Sugar Land

Dr. Frankie Ann HolmesTexas Oncology–

Sugar Land


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FOCUS ON THE CURE

Early Detection: Having a Mammogram Could Save Your Life!

Y ou’ve heard the statistics before. One in eight women will be diag-

nosed with breast cancer in her life-time. You might think you’re safe from breast cancer if no one in your family has had it, but family history is only one of the factors that determines your risk for the disease.

“Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States,” said Dr. Stephen Phillips, breast radiologist and medical director of the Breast Care Center at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “It is very important for all women to in-crease their awareness about their per-sonal risk of breast cancer.”

Did you know breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in wom-

en, regardless of race? Although Asian, Native American and Hispanic women have lower odds of developing breast cancer and dying from the disease, Caucasian women are more likely to be diagnosed, and African-American women are at greater risk of dying from breast cancer.

If your mother, sister or daughter has had breast cancer, your risk is dou-bled. But if that’s not the case, you’re not necessarily in the clear. Less than 15 percent of women diagnosed with breast cancer have a family history of the disease, which means it’s impor-tant to schedule the screenings that are right for your age.

“Monthly breast self-exams are something every woman should do starting in their 20s,” said Phillips. “Women should know how their breasts normally look and feel and report any breast change promptly to their phy-sician.” Additionally, a clinical breast exam should be performed every three years for women in their 20s and 30s and annually for women 40 and over. Yearly mammograms are recommend-ed starting at age 40 and should con-tinue for as long as a woman is in good health.

Putting off your routine mammo-gram because you think your risk is

lower now that you’re older is not a good idea. Among older women, wait-ing five years or more between mam-mograms increases your risk of dying from breast cancer. The majority of women diagnosed with breast cancer are older than 50, and the risk increas-es as you age. What’s more, two of ev-ery three invasive breast cancers found are in women 55 and up.

So, now you understand the impor-tance of yearly mammograms. But of equal importance is where you have your mammogram. The Breast Care Center at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital offers women a life-saving difference. Staffed by renowned breast radiologists, the Breast Care Center is the leading breast imaging facility in Fort Bend County and pro-vides some of the best diagnostic ser-vices available, including 3-D Mam-mography, Digital Mammography, Diagnostic Ultrasound, Breast MRI, Molecular Breast Imaging, MRI-guid-ed Biopsy, Ultrasound Biopsy and Ste-reotactic Biopsy.

Should your care need to extend be-yond your yearly mammogram, a dedi-cated breast care navigator will guide you through the emotional and complex journey from diagnosis to survivorship – so you can focus on healing.

Stephen Phillips, MDHouston Methodist

Sugar Land Hospital


houstonmethodist.org/spg

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FOCUS ON THE CURE

Recognizing the Risks of Breast Cancer

W hen I perform annual well-woman exams, I talk to my patients about breast cancer awareness. Women

should do breast self-examinations to be aware of how their breasts normally feel and look. If they notice any changes, such as lumps, discharge or other abnormalities, they should seek medical attention immediately. They shouldn’t wait un-til their next well-woman exam a year later.

Breast cancer has both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. Also, it’s important to know that the disease can ul-timately affect a woman’s chance to conceive in the future.

Modifiable Risk Factors

Some breast cancer risk factors are modifiable, like eat-ing a healthy diet, maintaining a good weight, lowering the amount of alcohol intake, not smoking and being physically active. A higher body mass index (BMI) and obesity are as-sociated with postmenopausal breast cancer. Be sure your diet is rich in fruits and vegetables. The American Cancer Society recommends 45 minutes of physical activity at least once a day for five or more days a week. By taking care of themselves physically, women can decrease certain risks of breast cancer.

Breastfeeding is also a modifiable factor. Planning for the first birth prior to age 30 or breastfeeding for at least six months after delivery can decrease the risk of breast cancer. Avoid or limit hormonal therapy during menopause.

Non-Modifiable Risk Factors

Gender, genetics, age, race and personal history are non-modifiable risk factors of breast cancer. It’s estimated that five to 10 percent of breast cancers are due to heredity and genetic defects inherited from their parents.

Women with the breast cancer gene BRCA1 or BRCA2, or who have a strong family history of the disease, have a 50 percent chance of inheriting the disease. All women should discuss guidelines for breast cancer screening with their phy-sicians, even without a family history of the disease.

Based on a patient’s personal history and family history, I recommend my patients undergo genetic testing. Though we can’t change our genetics, we can detect cancer early. The earlier their breast cancer is detected, the better chance women have of surviving.

Fertility Challenges

Many of my patients who have won the battle or are in the midst of fighting breast cancer experience fertility challenges from chemotherapy treatment. As a result of cancer medica-tion and chemotherapy, most women experience hormonal and menstrual cycle irregularities, as well as early meno-pause, and temporary or permanent infertility. The duration of the transient infertility cannot be predicted.

Consult a Physician Today

If you’re considering having a family, speak with your phy-sician about your fertility options or schedule a well-woman exam at St. Luke’s Medical Group Caritas Women’s Care in Sugar Land.

Brooke Jemelka, MDOB/GYN, Caritas Women’s Care

St. Luke’s Medical Group Sugar Land


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FOCUS ON THE CURE

Improved Breast Awareness Through Wellness Education:The Lymphatic Drainage System

T he most underrated purifying system in the human body is the

Lymphatic System, an integral part of the immune system. It is a person’s “Life Flow System.” This system and all of its capillaries are a major part of the body’s cleansing of excess toxic waste. The body contains three quarts of blood and 12 quarts of lymph. The lymphatic system moves approximately 45 per-cent of the waste through the body as it helps drain debris from 17 glands and organs in the endocrine system. Move-ment pumps the lymph system.

Lymph flows through a network of vessels, nodes and other organs. This system drains fluid from the body’s tis-

sues into the blood stream, transports fats from the gastrointestinal tract to the blood stream and fights infection. Inside the lymph nodes, white blood cells and antibodies filter out foreign substances such as bacteria.

The lymph system is completely in-dependent from the blood system and its capillaries. Blood moves quickly through capillaries, but lymph moves slowly through the capillaries. It will move even slower if one has shallow breathing patterns and very little exer-cise in their daily life. Blood takes nu-trients to the cells, and lymph picks up toxins and waste and takes them away from cells. The lymph system should be cleansing the body constantly to keep one disease-free and healthy.

The lymph moves only in one direc-tion – from the feet up to the chest and down from the top of the head and face into the Thoracic Duct. The body is cov-ered with lymphatic highways, espe-cially in the breast area, and constant movement to keeps it flowing. Deep Breathing and Lymphatic Drainage

Therapies, along with Colon Hydro-therapy, will facilitate cleansing. When keeping the body from autointoxica-tion, your life force and daily existence should maintain a high quality of liv-ing through healthier foods, yoga, deep breathing, rebounding on a trampoline, power plating, stretching, jump roping, high frequency or manual lymphatic drainage.

The tissues of the body, including the organ systems, are made up of a million cells. If diseases block the flow, it cannot discharge its toxic material. Left unchecked, the Lymph system continues to fill up and eventually the body swells with its own waste matter. It is very important to rid the over-flow of toxins from the body for future health and longevity. When the cells become balanced, the body regains its defense mechanism. Only a detoxified body has the power and potential for healing.

This article is intended to for educational pur-poses only. It is not to be construed as diagnostic or prescriptive. Joyce Long Wellness Institute does not prescribe or diagnose.

Fighting Breast Cancer: Early Detection Is Key

B reast cancer is the most com-mon cancer in women, with skin

cancers being an exception. Screening tests and early detection can find can-cer early when chances for survival are highest.

It is important to know your risk for breast cancer. Talking to both sides of your family is important so you can become familiar with your family his-tory. It is also important to talk to your

doctor about which screening tests are best for you.

MammogramsBeginning at age 40, women should

have a mammogram every year if you are at average risk. Beginning at age 20, women should schedule a clinical breast exam at least every three years and annual exams every year starting at age 40.

Self ExamsBe familiar with your body and

what is normal for you. The best way to do this is by performing monthly self breast exams. If you notice any of the following changes in your breast, con-tact your physician immediately:

• Lump• Hard knot or thickening inside

the breast or underarm area• Swelling

• Warmth, redness or darkening of the breast

• Change in the size or shape of the breast

• Dimpling or puckering of the skin• Itchy, scaly sore or rash on the

nipple• Pulling in of the nipple or other

parts of the breast• Nipple discharge that starts

suddenly• New pain in one spot that

doesn’t go away Making healthy lifestyle choices is

also a good preventative for breast can-cer. A key component in a healthy life-style is maintaining a healthy weight and adding exercise to your routine. Limiting alcohol intake and menopaus-al hormone use can also help reduce your risk.

Dr. Eric HumbleSugar Land Face & Body

Plastic Surgery

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M any abnormalities found on a mammogram are not nec-

essarily cancer, but rather are be-nign conditions like calcium depos-its or dense areas in the breast. If the radiologist or a doctor notes ar-eas of concern on a mammogram, further testing may be needed. This can include additional mam-mograms known as compression or magnification views, as well as ultrasound imaging. If further imaging is not effective, a biopsy, wherein a sample of breast tissue is taken, will be sent to a labora-tory for testing. In some instances, an MRI may be taken when mam-mography or ultrasound results are negative and it is still not clear what is causing a breast change or abnormality. Source: www.metrocreativeconnection.com

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The Difference Between Knowing and Doing

A s the rain pelted from the sky, cooling off the summer heat, we

stood at the airline counter as the rep-resentative informed me, “Your flight has been cancelled. The first availabil-ity I have to your destination is tomor-row.” She encouraged us to return in one hour to check in for the full flight tomorrow, lest we be at the back of the plane. We settled on lunch at the air-port as we waited for time to pass. As I approached the food counter, I looked for healthy lunch options. Salad at a barbecue joint always seemed suspect, and that loaded baked potato looked tempting!

After we checked in, we returned home in the pouring rain. My mind quickly made a list of things I had been meaning to do. That exercise class I had been planning to start was at the top of the list. Why was it so hard to do what I know I should?

Acting contrary to self-interest has been present since ancient times. The apostle Paul lamented in Romans, “I

don’t understand myself. I want to do what is right, but I do not do it. In-stead, I do the very thing I hate.” We all struggle with conflicts and good in-tentions. Admitting that we fail at do-ing what is ultimately good for us is an important beginning.

Immediate pleasure has a stronger effect on maintaining behavior than long-term consequences. Our primitive brain alerts us of immediate threats and pulls us to instant gratification. Only our developed brain allows for executive functioning that can override the pull to immediate pleasure and car-ry out goal-oriented behavior. This al-lows us to imagine future consequences and craft potential solutions. I am to an age where I can imagine that if I don’t eat healthier and exercise more, I won’t be able to do certain things in 20 years.

The risk for cancer is a combination of genes, environment and lifestyle choices. Some of these things we can control, and some we can’t. Experts conclude that 40 percent of cancers could be prevented by lifestyle choices. Two of the most important controllable factors for breast cancer are maintain-ing a healthy weight and exercise. Breast cancer has an indirect relation-ship with obesity and is a risk factor for breast cancer after menopause. Addi-tionally, overweight women who have had breast cancer have a higher risk of recurrence. Exercise, even moderate amounts, can decrease the risk of post-menopausal breast cancer.

While lifestyle choices can decrease our risk for breast cancer, unfortunate-ly, our two largest risk factors – getting

older and being female – can’t be miti-gated. That is why early detection is important. Advancements in screening with digital and 3D mammograms find cancers at earlier stages. Half of in-sured women who are eligible for mam-mograms have not had a mammogram within the last two years. Additionally, one in seven cancers are missed on mammograms. For this reason, a phys-ical exam is an important adjuvant to screening mammograms.

Women who have a high risk of breast cancer based on precancerous breast cells or a strong family history can decrease their risk of breast cancer by 50 percent with medication. None-theless, the vast majority of women of-fered these medications decline.

Choosing a healthy lifestyle, getting recommended screening and taking advantage of advanced medications all make a significant difference. So many people simply don’t do the things they know are good. To do what I should do comes from the inspiration of God, the love of family and friends and at times, my husband’s prod. We all can make important choices that can significant-ly increase our chances of surviving cancer. But will we?

Breast Care for Life is the under-standing and monitoring your indi-vidual risk, finding abnormalities as early as possible, receiving a timely cancer diagnosis, providing expert sur-gical treatment and monitoring you after cancer treatment is complete. It’s about improving the survivability of breast cancer both before and after a cancer diagnosis.

Sandra Templeton, MD, FACSDiseases and Surgery of the Breast

Breast Care for Life


FOCUS ON THE CURE

W hen a person is diagnosed with breast cancer, tests are then

conducted to study the cancer cells. According to the National Cancer In-stitute, such tests are used to deter-mine how quickly the cancer may grow and the likelihood that the cancer will spread throughout the body. These tests also may help doctors determine

Did You Know?

a course of treatment and if a patient is likely to experience a recurrence of the cancer down the road.

One such test is the estrogen and progesterone receptor test, which mea-sures the amount of estrogen and pro-gesterone receptors in cancer tissue. The cancer may grow more quickly in patients who have more of these recep-

tors than normal. In addition to mea-suring the amount of these hormones in the cancer tissue, an estrogen and progesterone test can determine if a treatment aimed at blocking estrogen and progesterone may prevent the can-cer from growing.

Source: www.metrocreativeconnection.com


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Improving the survivability of breast

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FOCUS ON THE CURE

Breast Pathology

N o cancer diagnosis is made with-out a biopsy, which is a small

sample of the patient’s tumor, typi-cally removed by a radiologist or sur-geon. The physician who examines the biopsy is a pathologist. Following col-lege and medical school, the budding pathologist undertakes a minimum of four years of residency training to be-come board certified and enter practice.

Contrary to the popular image, few pathologists perform autopsies on dead bodies. Modern pathologists are mostly concerned with the care of living pa-tients. Interpreting biopsies is both art and science. In addition to determining the patient has cancer, the pathologist must classify the tumor into one of sev-

eral categories and ascertain how ag-gressive the cancer is.

Entire textbooks have been written on breast pathology, so there is no way to give it exhaustive coverage here. However, there is a current issue with breast biopsies that the public needs to be aware of. The most common type of breast cancer is invasive ductal carci-noma. The cells that become malignant begin as normal cells lining the tiny ducts that convey milk from where it is produced to the nipple. When one of these cells turns malignant, it loses its normal inhibition to grow and divide. It multiplies uncontrollably, making mil-lions of other cells that escape the duct, produce a lump, invade nearby tissues, get into lymph vessels and spread to lymph nodes and other organs. The di-agnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma is relatively straightforward, and pathol-ogists almost always agree with each other on the diagnosis in a given case.

Advancements in medical imaging have given us the ability to identify a subset of patients who do not yet have invasive ductal carcinoma. In this group, the abnormal cells are dividing and multiplying, but they have not yet become malignant enough to escape

their duct and invade other tissues. There is spectrum of abnormal-

ity that these “intraductal” cell pro-liferations exhibit. The most benign diagnosis in this spectrum is “duct hyperplasia.” The most malignant is “ductal carcinoma in situ,” or DCIS. In between the two is an intermedi-ate grey zone, dubbed “atypical duct hyperplasia,” or ADH. Most physicians and patients see the word “carcinoma” in DCIS and view that as “cancer,” while the ADH diagnosis is some-thing less than or better than cancer. The DCIS patient may be offered a lumpectomy or mastectomy, while the ADH patient is followed and observed. This approach is logical in concept, but in reality, there is a significant prob-lem with categorizing a given biopsy. It turns out that for these intraductal lesions, the distinction between ADH and DCIS is poorly reproducible, and disagreements between pathologists are common.

The takeaway lesson is that it is always a good idea to get a second pathologist’s opinion when presented with a diagnosis of DCIS or ADH. Any disagreement needs to be resolved be-fore treatment, not after.

Ed Uthman, MDLaboratory Medical Director

OakBend Medical Center



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B reast cancer can affect both men and women and is one of

the most common forms of cancer. Thanks to increased awareness and screenings, many cases are di-agnosed early and treated success-fully. Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) is the most common form of breast cancer, accounting for about 80 percent of all breast cancers. Although IDC can affect women of any age, it is most common among women age 55 or older. The good news is that this type of cancer is highly curable, provided it has not spread outside of the ducts to other breast tissue. Survival rates for any breast cancers diagnosed in the early stages are excellent.

Source: www.metrocreativeconnection.com

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Breast Reconstruction

John T. Nguyen, MD, FICSPlastic and Reconstructive Surgery


B reast reconstruction is one or more operations performed to restore

all components of the breast of women who have undergone mastectomy or removal of the entire breast. Breast reconstruction after mastectomy has evolved over the last century to become an integral component in the therapy for many women with breast cancer. A complete breast reconstruction in-cludes recreating the breast mound, the nipple and areola complex so that the breasts are symmetric with regard to pigmentation, shape, size, projection and position.

The Goals of Breast Reconstruction:

To provide permanent breast contour.

To make the breasts look balanced. To give the convenience of not

requiring an external prosthesis. Breast Reconstruction

Can Be Performed Using: Artificial material (a silicone shell

filled with either silicone gel or sa-line) placed under the skin.

The woman’s own tissues (skin, muscle, fat) from another part of the body (flap reconstruction).

Pedicled flap: In this type of flap reconstruction, the tissues remain connected to the area of the body from which they are taken. Specifi-cally, the blood supply to the trans-planted tissues is not interrupted.

Free flap: In this type of flap reconstruction, the tissues are cut

buttock, to the chest area, where it is shaped to form a new breast mound. Like the implant surgery, this opera-tion can be performed at the same time as the mastectomy, or it can be delayed.

Advantages of Flap Reconstruction:

May eliminate the use of foreign material in the body.

Reconstructed breast usually looksand feels more natural.

Will last the woman’s life span. When successful, requires minimal

touch-up or redo operations throughout a woman’s lifetime.

Disadvantages of Flap Reconstruction:

Increased complexity and length of the surgery.

May require a longer recoveryperiod if muscle is included in thereconstruction.

Additional donor site scars.Some women may require an im-

plant, in addition to the flap recon-struction, for recreating the breast. If flap reconstruction is the selected op-tion for reconstructive surgery, then the surgeon must decide from which part of the body the required tissues are taken. The tissues for breast recon-struction can be taken from the back, abdomen, buttock or thigh.

Reconstruction of theNipple and Areola

Once the breast mound has been re-constructed, the nipple and areola (pig-mented area around the nipple) can be recreated approximately two to three months after the first breast reconstruc-tive surgery. A nipple can be created us-ing skin from the inner thigh, behind the ear, reconstructed breast or labia.

The skin can be tattooed to match the other nipple and areola. The recon-structed nipple and areola have very little sensation. Women who decide not to have nipple and areola reconstruc-tion performed can consider the option of nipple prosthesis.

off from the original area and graft-ed to the chest, and a new blood supply is created for the grafted tissues.

A combination of artificial material and the woman’s own tissues.

Timing of Breast Reconstruction: Immediate Versus Delayed

Immediate breast reconstruction is reconstruction that is performed at the same time as the mastectomy. Delayed breast reconstruction is reconstruction that is performed weeks, months or years after the mastectomy.

Surgeons differ in their opinions about when breast reconstruction should be performed. If radiation therapy needs to be administered after mastectomy, then breast reconstruc-tion is generally delayed until the skin in the treated area has healed. Excel-lent results can usually be achieved by either immediate breast reconstruction or delayed breast reconstruction.

Reconstruction Using ImplantsImplants are designed to recreate

the original breast shape and contour. A breast implant is a silicone shell filled with either silicone gel or saline. A tissue expander or balloon is inserted beneath the skin and chest muscle ei-ther during the mastectomy procedure or at a later operation. The surgeon pe-riodically injects saline into the balloon to gradually fill it over several weeks or months so that the overlying skin can expand. After the skin over the breast area has stretched enough, the tissue expander is removed in a second opera-tion and a permanent breast implant is inserted. Some women do not require tissue expansion before receiving an implant; for these women, the surgeon inserts an implant directly.

Flap ReconstructionFlap reconstruction is a reconstruc-

tive surgery in which a flap of skin and fat with or without muscle is trans-planted from a part of the body, such as the lower abdomen, back, thigh or

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Fort Bend’s ultimate one-stop holiday shopping destination with vendor booths from 1893 Salsa2 Sisters2Shelleys-Wearable SafetyAdorn 512All Stars DipsAmy’s Unique BoutiqueAnything Bling BoutiqueApplicious TreatsBaby Bin BoutiqueBalletForteBe Loved DesignsBNR DesignsBunnies and BowsCall Me GourmetCharity’s Chic BoutiqueCharmmen JewelryChina BaroqueClassy Cowgirl DreamsClassy Sassy CoutureClaudiaG Collection Cloud MineCobblestone CottageCowboy JunkieCross My HeartCRU HomeD&K HairwareDoor Décor by Christine

D’s Iron DesignsDudes & DaisiesD’Vine Styles Décor, LLCE B DazzledFabulous YouFancy Girl Bow-TiqueFancy Schmancy DécorFig Tree Jewelry Fleur de CFour B’s BoutiqueGeorgiann’s DesignsGina’s JewelsGlitter Flops and CapsGot to HaveGourmet Texas PastaGrateful Chics Inspirational GiftsHerta’s WreathsHouston Landmark GalleryImagination UnlimitedInitially YoursJack and Jill’s Children’s BoutiqueJARMZ DesignsJewels by JeanetteKaty Barrel CompanyKid’s AnthemLa Raye’s Bar-B-Que Sauce, Inc.Laredo Designs

Latte TotsLaugh Out Loud ExpressionsLeigh Leigh’s Little LagniappeLunches of LoveLuxe Heavenly BodiesMadi’s ClosetMajeza Jewelry CleanerMallory Et Cie JewelryMayfield’s MD Anderson Cancer Center Children’s Art ProjectMis-Tee-V-UsNectar of the VineNew Hope CandlesNothing Bundt CakesOne Hip MomOne Minute ManicureOrazure Hand Roasted CoffeePens by Mike Personal Creations by EmilyPink Eyed SissiesPure & Simple Soy CandlesRed Bird DesignRewined CandlesRoqqua JewelrySavory Fine FoodsScentsy Wickless Candles

ShannieGirlSisters Three BoutiqueSmock Candy ClothingSnoBall HutSouthern Sister DesignsSwedenburg DesignsSweet Nut’hings - Twilight Imports LLCTexana Décor and MoreThe Crooked AntlerThe Great Texas Pecan Candy Co.The Lipstick LadyThe Little Pink BagThe Rusty BarbThe Shine ProjectThe Silver AcornThe Wired CanaryThird Coast Gifts & GourmetTrends & Traditions BoutiqueTres ChicTutti BelloTwenty-Two Fifty InteriorsUnique Garden AccentsV’s Floral Décor and MoreWill’s WoodworksWrapped to WearZanny Louise Southern Vintage Design

FOCUS ON THE CURE


FOCUS ON THE CURE

Cancer Doesn’t Mean We Have to Stop Living:Regain Your Energy and Vitality!

T oday, there are 14 million cancer survivors in the United States.

Many continue to suffer from the side effects of cancer and cancer treatments as long as 10 years after completing treatment. These patients are looking for help to restore and maintain their health. Oncologists are focused on pa-thology and destroying cancer cells but are not usually the source of strate-gies to restore and maintain healthy function. There are natural solutions to help survivors regain their energy, vitality and quality of life after cancer.

Nutritional Testingand IV Therapy

Having the proper balance of essen-tial nutrients is important to feel well, have energy and help prevent the re-occurrence of cancer. This is especially important for cancer patients, since the treatments for cancer can deplete the body of key nutrients. Nutritional Defi-ciencies Testing is a means to identify which vitamins, minerals, amino acids

and antioxidants a person is deficient in so that they can supplement appro-priately.

IV Therapy is a method of deliver-ing important nutrients directly into the bloodstream. By bypassing the di-gestive system, a person can get the benefit of 100 percent of the nutrients, since they do not have to bypass the digestive system. Some of the most important nutrients that are vital for the prevention of cancer include glutathione, which is the body’s master antioxidant; vitamin C, which helps re-duce inflammation in the body and the Myers Cocktail, which can help with energy and overall wellness.

Supplementation with high quality, medical grade supplements are also important. Some of the more important supplements for breast cancer survi-vors are DIM, which is important in helping to remove unhealthy estrogen metabolites, and N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC), which helps the body produce more of the antioxidant glutathione.

Inflammation, Gut Healthand Food Sensitivities

Inflammation is one of the primary causes of cancer and all diseases, for that matter. Inflammation in the body originates from the gut. One of the pri-mary causes of an unhealthy gut is the overgrowth of a yeast called candida albicans. Candida overgrowth can com-monly occur due to the overuse of anti-biotics that kill off the good bacteria in the gut that are essential to keep the candida from taking over.

Another common cause of gut in-

flammation is food sensitivities. Most people are aware of food allergies, but food sensitivities are much more com-mon and commonly go overlooked, since they do not cause an anaphylac-tic reaction. The most common food sensitivities are corn, wheat, dairy, soy and eggs. Food Sensitivities Testing is an important part of identifying food sensitivities so that a person can avoid foods causing inflammation in their body.

MonaLisa Touchfor Vaginal Atrophy

A woman’s sexual wellbeing is also an important part of a life of vitality. Unfortunately, a condition called Vulvo Vaginal Atrophy (VVA) can commonly occur in women after undergoing can-cer treatments. Breast cancer treat-ment increases the prevalence of VVA, because the surgical and chemothera-peutic agents used in its treatment can cause or exacerbate VVA. A revolution-ary treatment for VVA called Mona-Lisa Touch can restore the vagina to a healthy state and greatly reduce the symptoms associated with VVA, which can include vaginal dryness, irritation and painful intercourse. This proce-dure is highly effective, fast, painless and completely safe for breast cancer survivors.

Restoring a life full of health, ener-gy and vitality can be achieved with a combination of these natural solutions. Be your own health advocate, and edu-cate yourself on integrative treatments to ensure long-term health that is can-cer free!


Dr. Shelena C. LaljiDr. Shel Wellness

& Medical Spa

absolutely

Power through with pink tourmaline. This beautiful, sterling silver braceletby Sara Blaine is handcrafted with atoggle clasp. The stones are individuallyprong set in the leaf motif undercarriage. J Loggins Jewelers, 14015 Southwest Freeway inSugar Land. Call 281-242-2900; www.jloggins.com.

Johnny Was new jackets and sweaters have arrived at Treasure Hunters Gallery, each featuring a unique twist in detail, material or pattern in the signature Johnny Was aesthetic. Purchase a Johnny Was item, and 10% of sales will be donated to breast cancer research. Treasure Hunters Gallery, 204 Morton Street in Historic Downtown Richmond. Call 281-239-0043.

Saturday, October 3rd is Tough Enough to Wear Pink night at the 79th Annual Fort Bend County Fair & Rodeo. Fairgoers are invited to wear pink to help raise awareness of breast cancer, and a donation will be made to the Fort Bend County American Cancer Society. Fort Bend County Fair & Rodeo, 4310 Highway 36 South in Rosenberg. Call 281-342-6171; www.fortbendcountyfair.com.

Plant pink in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month. Add pink to your garden with Wave Petunias and Bubblegum Supertunias, Pink Dianthus, Wendy’s Wish Salvia, English Daisies, Winter Flock and all kinds of pink roses. Visit Enchanted Forest to find your pink inspiration. Enchanted Forest,10611 FM 2759 in Richmond;Enchanted Gardens,6420 FM 359 in Richmond.Call 281-937-9449 or 281-341-1206;www.myenchanted.com.

Shop at The Vintage Pearl for meaningful, custom handstamped jewelry created with any names, dates or inspirational words – made just for you! Save 20% off your order! (exp. 10/31/15)The Vintage Pearl,16049 City Walk inSugar Land Town Square. Call 281-325-0169;www.thevintagepearl.com.


By Zeenat Kassam Mitha

Fort Bend Women’s Center Board President Mindy Gross, Executive Director Vita Goodall and Board Member Doug Heath.

TO SHARE YOUR IDEASfor upcoming cultural stories and events, contact Cultural Correspondent Zeenat Kassam Mitha [email protected]

This year, FBWC celebrates 35 years of Healing and Hope. The center was started in 1980 as a crisis hotline for those living with domestic violence or sexual assault in Fort Bend Coun-ty. Over the years, their mission has remained focused on helping these individuals and their children. Their programs have grown to meet the com-munity’s increasing needs.

O ctober is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Domestic Violence occurs in

every culture, country and community and affects people from all socioeco-nomic, religious and educational back-grounds.

“Most of us know someone who has been affected, whether we realize they have been affected or not,” said Vita Goodall, Executive Director, Fort Bend Women’s Center (FBWC). What is heartbreaking is that children are also affected by domestic violence, even if they are not physically abused or do not witness it directly. “Children who grow up in domestic violence often may grow up to be abused or as abus-ers, and we’d like to stop that cycle now,” stated Goodall.

According to the United States De-partment of Justice, women are 90 to 95 percent more likely to be victims of domestic violence than men. Women who come to shelters for assistance tend to be those with less capital or greater perceived vulnerability. This includes girls and those experiencing physical or psychiatric disabilities or living below the poverty line. “Often, women who seek assistance have men-tal health issues, such as post-trau-matic stress, anxiety and depression caused by the abuse they experienced,” said Goodall.

Currently, FBWC includes a resi-dential shelter and an extensive range of services for those affected by do-mestic and sexual violence and their children. Their crisis hotline now runs 24 hours a day, seven days a week, throughout the year. In 1989, the FBWC opened PennyWise, a resale center, as a means of providing funds for their growing services. Today, they operate three stores across Fort Bend. The PennyWise stores not only gener-ate much needed income, they also pro-vide their clients with emergency cloth-ing and the necessities for their new homes when they leave the shelter.

In 1992, transitional housing as-sistance was introduced, recognizing that many of FBWC’s clients need temporary help to live independently as they work towards self-sufficiency. This program, which includes in-home visits from their team, as well as rental and other assistance, has reduced the rate of clients returning to their abus-ers from 65 to 10 percent. “The 20 plus

Boogie 2014 Chair Dorine Craig and Auction Coor-dinator Kathy Ebeck.

Volunteers Debbie Maynard, Don Barkheimer and Vivian McDowell at Boogie 2014 benefiting Fort Bend Women’s Center.

innovative programs and services we offer are interrelated to culminate in empowering women and their chil-dren to live independent, violence-free lives,” said Mindy Gross, FBWC Board of Directors President. Amongst many things, these programs help women with safety, rebuilding confidence and self-respect.

In 2001, FBWC added an on-site clinic, a learning resource center and improved recreational facilities for their residents’ children. They ex-panded their services with the launch of their education and outreach pro-gram, which aims to prevent abusive relationships from the start, working from elementary to college level and in community settings across Fort Bend County. “We’re here to help, confiden-tially and free. There’s no judgment here, just help and support. You can be a survivor, and we can help. Call our hotline, 24/7 at 281-342-HELP (4357) and talk to us. We’re here for you,” said Goodall.

Supporting Those Affected

by Domestic Violence


As part of their 35th anniversary cele-bration, actress, activist and humanitar-ian Ashley Judd will join the celebration on October 1st at 6:30 pm at The Junior League of Houston. Call 281-344-5750 or visit www.fortbendwomenscenter.org to volunteer or support or for more information on events to raise funds for FBWC, such as Boogie, Gillman Golf and Girlfriends Giggle.

Upcoming Event


• Celebrating 23 years in Landscape Design and Installation

• 14-year FIRST COLONY and FORT BEND COUNTY resident


Downtown Rosenberg Autumn Festival

October 23rd – 25thA Weekend Full of Autumn Fun

Live Music, Food & Fun2 Live Theater Performances by Cast Theatrical Company

Sunday, October 25th

Trunk or Treat 2 – 4 pm

Saturday, October 24th

Grand Opening of the new 3rd Street Art Park with its new murals and sculpture10 am

“Bark in the Park” Doggie Festival 11 am – 3 pm

A sanctioned Art Show of the Art League of Fort Bend (Noon - 5 pm), with a live music concert continuing into the evening to honor the winners.

Friendly, gentle and caring staff

Offering Oral and I.V. Sedation

Most major insurances accepted

Specialist in dentistry for children from 6 months to 17 years of age

Ask About NO INTEREST PAYMENT PLANS

Se Habla Español

Little MonstersCostume Contest

New patientswelcome to enter

Now offering reversal to dental numbness

12th Annual Gulf Coast International Dragon

Boat Regatta

It’s been nearly a year since dragons have been seen on Brooks Lake, but they will return on October 24th and 25th from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm for the 12th Annual Gulf Coast International Dragon Boat Regatta. Over 40 teams have al-ready registered, including paddlers from all across the United States, as well as Canada. The nationally ranked Steers, just off victories at the 12th World Na-tions Championships in Welland, Cana-da, will work with local teams to enhance their paddling experience.

David M. Mandell, Executive Director of the Texas Dragon Boat Association, and his team are planning a weekend of fun and excitement that you won’t want to miss. There is still time for teams and individuals to register to participate. The event is free to the public and a great family event held on the waters of Brooks Lake at Fluor Daniels Campus in Sugar Land. Over 5,000 people are expected to attend this wonderful weekend Regatta. There are also a few spaces available for product sales and food vendors.

Email [email protected] or visit www.texasdragonboat.com for more information on sponsorships, ven-dors, committee and volunteer opportu-nities.

NEWSWORTHY

Yang Si, Zeenat Mitha, Beth Arlington, Isis Smalls, Varun Gupta, Eve Ruhlman, Himesh Gandhi, Li Qiangmin and Eugene Lee at the 2014 opening ceremony.

Photo by Randy Kozlovsky.


You Live.Love Where

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Our design professionals are here to help you select

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Fort Bend Panhellenic is thrilled about plans for the upcoming school year and extends an invitation to all National Pan-hellenic Conference alumnae sorority women in the Fort Bend area to join and be a part of the excitement. Their 2015-16 upcoming events include a fine arts performance at Creative Dreams Out-reach Center on October 15th, Kendra Gives Back to benefit the Panhellenic Scholarship Fund on November 10th, a Women’s Health and Nutrition Seminar in January 2016, a social at Pinot’s Pal-ette in February, a recruitment workshop on March 5th and the group’s traditional Bunco Party to finish the year. Fort Bend Panhellenic’s focus this year is “Focus-ing on Philanthropy.”

Fort Bend Panhellenic hosts two very special events each year: a scholarship program for active collegiate sorority members and a spring recruitment infor-mation workshop for high school senior and collegiate girls and their parents. Both are beneficial events that support girls in the community.

Membership in Fort Bend Panhellenic is open to initiated alumnae of any of the 26 national sororities that make up the National Panhellenic Conference.

Visit www.fortbendpanhellenic.org for more information. Join their Facebook group under Fort Bend Alumnae Panhel-lenic or email your name, sorority and email address to [email protected] to stay up to date on Fort Bend Panhellenic’s activities.

Fort Bend County Panhellenic Alumnae

Announces Eventsfor the Year

2015-2016 officers for the Fort Bend Panhellenic Board Lucia Jackson, Barbara DiBlasi Marlin, Liz Stegall and Courtney McCollister.


Treasure Hunter Gallery No Tricks, Just Treats.

Announcing the return of old favorites in our clothing lines:

Johnny Was Collection JWLA

Judith March

Historic Downtown Richmond304 Morton St.

Richmond, Texas 77469281-435-1191

Unique Items Found and Souled

Open: Mon. – Sat. 10:00 – 5:30

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Blaze Fast Fire’d Pizza, the fast-ca-sual artisanal pizza concept known for its chef-driven menu and casually hip restaurants, opened its first Houston area location in Sugar Land on July 30th. The new restaurant, which features a thoughtfully designed 2,300 square-foot interior with seating for 60 inside and an outdoor patio, is located at 16100 Kensington Drive.

Blaze Pizza is a modern day “pizza joint” serving up artisanal pizzas that are both fast and affordable. Since its first restaurant debuted in 2012, Blaze has quickly become one of the nation’s hot-test restaurant concepts, with fans lining up each day for the custom-built piz-zas, fresh salads, orange lemonade and s’more pies.

Each restaurant features an open-kitchen format that allows guests to customize signature pizzas or create their own, choosing from a wide selec-tion of fresh, artisanal ingredients – all for about $8. The generously-sized per-sonal pizzas are then sent to a blazing hot, open-flame oven, where dedicated pizza-smiths ensure that the thin-crust pies are fast-fire’d and ready to eat in just 180 seconds.

Blaze Pizza uses a dough recipe developed by critically-acclaimed Ex-ecutive Chef Bradford Kent, a.k.a. the “Pizza Whisperer.” The recipe requires a 24 hour fermentation period to produce his signature light-as-air, crisp crust. For pizza fans with specific dietary needs, Blaze Pizza offers gluten-free dough and vegan cheese. The Sugar Land restau-rant also features a selection of wine and craft beer.

For more information, call 281-491-0275 or visit www.blazepizza.com.

Blaze Fast Fire’dPizza Brings Artisanal

Eats to Sugar Land


The Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) and Memorial Hermann invite the community to join them as they “Let it Snow” during the 15th Annual Sugar Plum Market. The event will be held at the Stafford Centre Performing Arts Theatre and Convention Center Friday, November 6th and Saturday, November 7th. Preview Night has been set for the evening of Thursday, November 5th.

Last year’s Market raised a record-breaking $258,000, which benefited 18 charitable organizations in Fort Bend County. “The reach of the Fort Bend Junior Service League spans through-out our community with their mission of service and giving, and there is no event where this is more evident than their annual Sugar Plum Market,” said Patti Parish-Kaminski, Publisher, absolutely! focus media. “The scope of this event and the support provided to our com-munity as a direct result is phenomenal. We have been privileged to serve as a sponsor of this event for several years,

The Fort Bend Junior Service Leagueand Sponsors Partner For

15th Annual Sugar Plum Market

Kim Zeiner, Kimberly Hays Camp, Dana Clement, Greg and Alison Haralson, Patti Parish-Kaminski, Cheryl Bertrand, Andrea Faz, Pam Spencer, Jamie Hill and Jim Brown.

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Sugar Land: 1201 Creekway Dr. • Suite BSugar Land, Texas 77478

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and it is an honor to support these ladies and their work. We look forward to many more years of working together all for the common good: our community.”

Sponsorship and underwriting op-portunities are available ranging from $250 to $10,000 with a variety of ben-efits suited to both individuals and busi-nesses, such as event signage, website and program recognition, plus Preview Night tickets with early sponsor entry. In addition to the Sugar Plum Market’s title sponsor, Memorial Hermann, top spon-sors to date include the City of Stafford, Pamela Printing, Fort Bend Lifestyles & Homes, absolutely! focus media, Trustmark Bank, and H-E-B.

General Admission tickets are $12, and a limited quantity of Preview Night tickets are available for $75. Both are available for purchase online at www.sugarplummarket.com. General Admis-sion tickets may also be purchased at local Randalls stores and at the door on Market days.

For information on sponsorship op-portunities, visit www.sugarplummarket.com or call 281-636-6272.


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Sugar Land City Council Member Harish Jajoo has announced his candi-dacy for mayor of Sugar Land in the May 2016 general election. A fiscal conserva-tive who believes in low taxes and disci-plined spending, Jajoo is a strong advo-cate of public safety and has served on City Council representing District 4 since June 2011.

“It has been my honor and privilege to serve on City Council, and I want to continue serving the residents of Sugar Land as mayor of our great city.” Cur-

Sugar Land Council Member Harish Jajoo Announces Mayoral Campaign

rent Sugar Land Mayor James Thomp-son is term-limited and cannot seek re-election.

During his tenure on Council, Jajoo has overseen several economic devel-opment projects such as Constellation Field, recruitment and retention of major employers such as Texas Instruments, Nalco, the future relocation of the Fluor Corporation and the transition of UH-Sugar Land to a branch of the Univer-sity of Houston’s Tier I central campus. Jajoo also helped shepherd critical infra-

structure projects to completion, such as the surface water plant, expansion of University Boulevard and Dulles Avenue and the city’s sidewalk and pavement re-habilitation program.

A registered civil engineer and urban infrastructure professional, Jajoo served 29 years as an executive with the City of Houston’s Department of public prior to holding elected office in Sugar Land. “I am running because I know that to-gether we can make Sugar Land an even more prosperous, friendly and exciting

•in Historical Downtown Rosenberg•

Wed-Sat 10-5 Sun 12-5 • 801 2nd Street281-232-0035 or 832-595-9600

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place to live, work and play,” said Jajoo, “As mayor, I will work to ensure that Sug-ar Land maintains a high quality of life, a business-friendly environment and an efficient road and traffic system.”

Jajoo, his wife Shashi and their family have called Sugar Land their home for the past 30 years. They have been in-volved in various civic, community and non-profit organizations. For more infor-mation, visit www.JajooForSugarLand.com. 281.265.2250 • F: 1.877.402.0210 • www.twentytwofiftyinteriors.com

2250 Lone Star in Sugar Land Town Square

VSA & Chan Luu JewelryBella Notte Linens

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20% OFF DURINGHOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

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Mark Roberts Fairies,Nativities & Ornaments

Custom Holiday Florals and Trees

Thursday, October 29th ◆ 10am - 6pm ◆ Lite Bites & Drinks

Scheduling In Home Holiday Decorating today! Please call 281.265.2250 to schedule!

Holiday Open House

Sugar Land City Council Member Harish Jajoo.


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 Adrienne at 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 Fort Bend Focus Magazine the right to use and publish their photograph. There is no contest deadline.

October 2015 Winner

“Solitude in Wrangell, AK” By Joe Schmitt

Congratulations Joe, 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


281.277.3555 www.lemkeortho.com4907 Sandhill Dr., Suite B • Sugar Land, TX 77479

Dr. Katia Lemke, DMDOrthodontic Specialist

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• Flexible After School Hours• Free Orthodontic Exam & Consultation• Insurance & Flexible Financing Available

You are invited to the 21st annual American Girl Fashion Show

at the Junior League of Houston

Saturday, November 14 Breakfast—10:00 a.m.

Lunch—1:00 p.m.

Sunday, November 15 Lunch—1:00 p.m.

Tea—4:00 p.m.

Enjoy elegant refreshments, enter to win prizes, and learn how clothing has changed over the years to reflect history, culture and girls’ individual styles

during this fun-filled presentation of historical and contemporary fashions.

Birthday Packages available starting at $2,000 Runway Tables available starting at $1,650

Individual Tickets available starting $50 VIP Model Packages available for $150

Purchase Online or by Phone: www.hitsfashionshow.com

Phone: 713.904.3777

Benefiting

Benefiting HITS Theatre 311 W. 18th Street Houston, TX 77008 www.hitstheatre.org

®


IN THEHEART

O F T H E B E N D

OUT&ABOUT

The Fort Bend Junior Service League welcomed new members at its Annual Sustainer New Member Coffee at the Sugar Land home of CeeCee and David Parker.

Wanda Sdao, Vanessa Vara, Dorine Craig and Kate Johnson-Patagoc.

Laura Richard and Andi Wallis.

May Tape and Sue Fagan.

Lucia Street and Mary Favre.

Texana’s People Assisting Life-Changing Services (PALS) mingled during a relaxing evening with great friends, wine and hors d’ouevres, and Kate Johnson-Patagoc shared her wisdom on the art of bringing out the best in people.

Norma Petrosewicz and Jessica Kij.

Laura Leatherwood and Liz Furman.

Vickie Coates and Linda Day.June Joseph-Steele and Cee Cee Parker.

Sandra Templeton and Betty Baitland.


Allison Wen and Nell Ciancarelli.

Lois Kolkhorst and Rebecca Fox.

Bill Jordan, Kevin Hermis and Frank Petras.

Carol Evans, Claude Leatherwood and Brenna Cosby.

Dave Rosenthal, Mike Siwierka and Doug Calame.

Larissa Pennington Plunto with Jim and Lois Kolkhorst and Amy Mitchell.

State Senator Lois W. Kolkhorst hosted a Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting for her new district office in Katy.

The 16th Annual Fort Bend Education Foundation’s Back to School Scramble Golf Tournament was held at Sweetwater Country Club. Thanks to the generosity of this year’s participants, the event netted $115,500 for the Fort Bend Education Foundation. The 256 golfers who played in the tournament enjoyed lunch from Chick-fil-A and an awards banquet at the end of the day.

Stanley Stein and Norward Richardson.

Terri Wang, Sam Golden, Lynn Halford and Peggy Jackson.

Melinda Henry and Nell Clingman.

Wade Hanegan, Charles Dupre and Kay James.

Photos by Paul Gor and Kay Jam

es.


IN THEHEART

O F T H E B E N D

OUT&ABOUT

The Fort Bend County Fair and Grapes on the Brazos with the Rosenberg Arts Alliance hosted the Downtown Stomp in Historic Downtown Rosenberg. The downtown shops offered extended hours for shopping and wine tasting.

Tim and Patti Kaminski.

Carl Drozd and Larry Deats.

Karen Mullins, Kristin Sillavan, Susan Sillavan Forbes, Barbara Magana-Robertson and Brenda Sillavan.

Jimmie Kocian, Linda Rulau, Wanda Kolkhorst and Margie Nowak.

Kay Garrett and Judy Deats.

Sue Syverton and Jules Fuchs.

Quartermaster 3rd Class Cole Murphy from Jamaica, New York and Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Justin Coomes from Stafford steered USS Porter during a replenishment-at-sea with USNS Bighorn in September. Porter, an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, forward-deployed to Rota, Spain, was on a routine patrol.

Phot

o by

Sea

n M

cDew

.


Qaisar Imam, Kevin Barker, Ike Mitha, Suleman Lalani and Farha Ahmed.

Amy Mitchell, Harish Jajoo and Murad Ajani.

Peta Gay-Ledbetter, Tracy Faulkner, Paul Pass, Teresa Cox-Reading and Kaberi and Ruchi Mukerjee.

The Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) Southwest Region’s Stronger Together Luncheon at the Ismaili Jamatkhana and Center recognized the host committee and emissaries to promote the September AKF Sugar Land 5K Run at Sugar Land Memorial Park.

Dennis Halford, Sanjit Juneja, Eric Moa, Richard and David Denny, Michael Stephan, Michael Rowe, Noah Silva, Sydney Guy, Emily Christman, Charlene Pulvinar, Claire Walters, Leah Hotze, Joy Stephan, Gracie Workman, Meredith Daulton, Sofia Souza, Madison Silva, Noah Arnell, Samantha Doherty, William Bradford, Justin Rowe, Ashlynn and Brooke Sems, Hunter and Hannah Hotze, Grayson Stapp, Trace Scheffer, Brandon Stapp, Cade Doherty, Henry Norton, Ryan Rowe, Amy Dalton, Tammy Scheffer, Melissa Silva, Deepak Jagannath, Allyson Martinez, Meybelin Bueso and Janie Fritsch.

Sugar Land Orthodontist Dr. Dennis E. Halford treated his Halford Helpers to a private viewing at Star Cinema in August. Halford Helpers is a summer program that allows patients to come into the office to “work” and learn about orthodontics for a few hours one day. The patients love getting to help Halford and his staff.


Sugar LandSERIES

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MEDICALFOCUS

With the holiday season around the corner, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is once again offering Fort Bend residents the opportunity to “give a gift and beat the flu.” In collaboration with the Exchange Club of Sugar Land, Fort Bend Exchange Club, Rotary Club of Sugar Land, Rotary Club of Fort Bend and Toys for Tots Fort Bend, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital will offer free flu shots on Saturday, October 24th to community members who participate in Santa’s Gift Exchange.

Fort Bend and surrounding area resi-dents can bring a new, unwrapped toy or clothing item to the main lobby of Hous-ton Methodist Sugar Land Hospital from 8 am to noon in exchange for a free flu shot. The toys and clothing will benefit local children in the Fort Bend area.

“We are proud to partner with the lo-cal exchange clubs and Toys for Tots once again to provide this community offering,” said Chris Siebenaler, CEO of Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hos-pital. “This is a great way for the com-munity to stay healthy while also putting smiles on children’s faces during the holiday season.”

In 2014, Santa’s Gift Exchange pro-vided toys and clothing to more than 4,000 economically disadvantaged chil-dren in Fort Bend County. “Everyone’s help is needed to meet the challenge of providing toys for our children who will not have toys this year without our help,” said Jim Kij, co-chairman of Santa’s Ex-change 2015. “We are looking forward to partnering with Houston Methodist Sug-

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital

Offers Free Flu Shots to Benefit Santa’s Exchange


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

27 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.

SWEETWATER/BEST VIEW OF GOLF COURSE/PECAN HOLE #1Barbara Lee Cochran

Realtor

281-565-5626

Stately home on a PRIME SWEETWATER GOLF COURSE LOT with spectacular, expan-sive views! On #1 on the Pecan Course. 5 Bedroom, 4 full & 3 half baths. Solarium breakfast room overlooking awesome 20x40’ pool & spa. SubZero, huge granite is-land & 5 burner cooktop. Awesome master bath, Whirlpool, steam shower, bidet. Dry Sauna. 2 staircases. Cedar closet. Dramatic 2 story living room w/wet bar. Warm wood paneled study w/2nd fireplace. Huge game room up w/2nd wet bar & balcony views! All windows energy efficient! Driveway gate. Porte cochere. FBISD/Clements HS! $950,000.

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ar Land Hospital for a sixth year. This is a great collaboration. Get a flu shot, and in return, you are able to give back to the children in this community.” Kij is a 14 year member of the Exchange Club of Sugar Land and a past president.

“Our community is well-known for its philanthropic values, so we encourage you to participate by dropping off toys or clothing even if you have already had your flu shot,” Siebenaler said.

The flu vaccine is formulated to pro-vide protection against three different flu viruses – H1N1, H3N2 and influenza B. Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital will distribute a limited supply of the in-fluenza vaccine to persons age 18 and over with no history of egg or latex al-lergy. If you are pregnant, please visit your OB/GYN or primary care physician to have your vaccine administered.

For more information, call 281-274-7972.

David Alexander, Doerthe Gottschalk, Jim Kij, Marcia Barham, Jessica Gilbert, Laura Littlejohn, Leena Taneja and Melissa Montemayor.

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NEWSWORTHY

Parks Youth Ranch Announces Cowboy Up 2015

The Parks Youth Ranch (PYR) Board of Directors is once again saddling up for success! Cowboy Up, PYR’s annual fundraiser, will be held on Saturday, October 3rd at The George Ranch Historical Park Arena. Since the inaugural event in 2012, Cowboy Up event supporters have donated more than $500,000 to fund operations at the emergency shelter for at-risk and homeless children.

The Fred and Mabel R. Parks Youth Ranch opened its doors in March 2011 to address a gap in services for abused, at-risk and homeless youth. PYR is a 20 bed emergency shel-ter located in Fort Bend County that is able to accommodate 10 boys and 10 girls ages seven to 17. PYR’s mission is to provide emergency shelter, counseling and life-changing ser-vices to these children. 2015 has been a very important year for PYR’s mission! The organization is extremely pleased to have provided over 28,000 nights of peace and security to our most vulnerable population.

“Strapping on their spurs” as Honorary Chairs for 2015 Cowboy Up are Carole and Robert C. Brown, III. Longtime Sugar Land residents, Bob and Carole have deep roots in Fort Bend County. Both have donated countless hours for various

charitable organizations in their 60 plus years together, and Bob has served on the PYR Board of Directors since 2009. Joining Bob and Carole at the event are local radio personality Michele Fisher as event emcee and Ray Aguilar as the event auctioneer. New features this year include live music by The Rankin Twins, a spirit pull and bourbon tasting, plus exclusive handcrafted PYR pottery. There will be lots of great food and fun, boot-wor-thy dancing for all to enjoy!

Here’s your chance to put on your boots and hat and party with a purpose. A variety of sponsorship and underwriting op-portunities are available from $250 to $15,000. General admis-sion tickets are also available for $75 each. Join PYR for a very special evening benefiting the future of at-risk and homeless youth. PYR is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization providing a “home for today” and “hope for tomorrow.”

For more information on sponsorship or general admis-sion tickets, visit the PYR website at www.parksyouthranch.org or contact Parks Youth Ranch Executive Director Shannon Bloesch at [email protected].

Shannon Bloesch, Dick Hogan, Holly Kaminga and Mary Favre, Bob and Carole Brown and Shanna Wozny.

Photo by Liz Furman.

Fort Bend Resident Chronicles the Integration of Athletics at the

University of Houston in the 1960s

Retired history instructor and longtime Fort Bend resident Robert D. Jacobus, formerly at Foster High School in Richmond and Wharton County Junior College, wrote a book entitled Houston Cougars in the 1960s: Death Threats, the Veer Offense and the Game of the Century, to be published by Texas A&M University Press on October 23rd.


Houston Cougars in the 1960s fea-tures the first person accounts of the players, coaches and others involved in the integration of collegiate athletics in Houston, telling the gripping story of the visionary coaches, courageous athletes and committed supporters who blazed a trail, not only for athletic success but for racial equality in 1960s Houston.

Coach Guy V. Lewis integrated the University of Houston basketball pro-gram in 1964, when he recruited two young black men from Louisiana, Elvin Hayes and Don Chaney. By their senior season in 1968, Hayes and Chaney led the Cougars to a victory over the mighty University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Bruins in college basketball’s “Game of the Century” in the Houston Astrodome on January 20, 1968.

Also in 1964, College Football Hall of Fame Coach Bill Yeoman, a Sugar Land resident for the last 40 years, recruited running back Warren McVea from San Antonio to integrate the football pro-gram. By McVea’s senior season in 1967, the Cougars led the nation in total offense and also blazed a trail of integra-tion throughout the South.

Robert Jacobus will hold book signings at the following Fort Bend loca-tions in December:

Sunday, December 6th2 – 4 pm Barnes and Noble First Colony MallSugar Land, TX 77479

Saturday, December 19th 10 am – Noon Mugz Coffee Bar503 FM 359, Suite 190Richmond, TX 77406

presented byF o rt B e n d J u n i o r S e rv i c e L e a g u e &

M e M o r i a L H e r M a n nPreview Night

Thursday, November 5th6 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Friday, November 6th9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Saturday, November 7th9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Stafford Centre Performing Arts Theatre & Convention Center

This advertisement generously underwritten by absolutely! focus media

www.sugarplummarket.comSchedule your mammogram at the Sugar Plum Market.

Stop by the Memorial Hermann booth to sign up and receive a free gift!

15th Anniversary


Vote for yourfavs in our annualReaders’ Choice of Fort Bend’s Favorites, and see who wins the titleof Focus Fav in the December 2015 issue.

Visit website atfortbendfocus.com

What’s your favorite?


By Alisa Murray

Ron Brandani, Alisa Murray and Claire Brandani

Brandani’sRestaurant& Wine Bar

Crab Cake topped with crispy leeks

W ell folks, I am a southern gal from North Carolina, and one thing I know is

my fried chicken. Brandani’s not only has the best in Texas, but in North Carolina as well. There’s a special sauce that owner and Executive Chef Ron Brandani makes called jalapeño gravy, and I lovingly refer to it as “crack,” because it’s past good – it’s amazing! Initially, that is what drew me in to visit this power couple’s new restaurant, and the rest has been every bit as delish.

Ron and Claire Brandani remind me a lot of Brian and me in that their business is a family affair. They each play a pivotal role in creating both an experience of fine dining and amaz-ing dishes that are beautifully plated and seasoned to perfection. Ron, a Galveston native, cooked with Danish Chef Tommy Broberg, who is in part credited with inspiring Ron to become the amazing chef he is today. Claire is a third generation Houstonian. Their menu is filled with seasonal fresh veg-etables, and the couple uses local farm-ers and supports our community by giving back.

Ron likes cooking things he knows and that has proven to please his friends and family. I asked him about his style. “I like big flavors. I don’t think you should have to season your food when you go out to eat. My dad taught me how to make homemade red sauce when I was five, so I feel most of my food has an Italian heart.”

I had the Breakfast for Dinner, which is smoked deviled eggs, potato latke and Ron’s famous candied bacon. By the way, that bacon is Mrs. Patti’s favorite! The Crab Cake is second run-ner-up for me as the best of his menu. I have had many off the coast of South Carolina and Georgia, and none can compare to his! Ron makes it with panko breadcrumbs, jumbo lump crabmeat, lemon beurre blanc and crispy leeks.

There are several salads on the menu. Brandani’s Salad consists of mixed greens, apples, dried cranber-ries, pine nuts, tear drop tomatoes, chicken, croutons and avocado ranch dressing. As for main entrées, I have had many of his pasta dishes, and they are all amazing. The Salmon and Ri-sotto is delicious with infused saffron and leek risotto, asparagus and tear drop tomatoes, drizzled with a roasted tomato vinaigrette. The Snapper is equally delightful. Wild caught Gulf Snapper finished with an orange chili sauce with kumquats is served with sautéed baby kale and gingered sweet potatoes. Then there’s the chicken served with mashed potatoes and that jalapeño gravy!

Ron’s favorite is his 16 ounce Porter-house Pork Chop. He cold smokes and then pan sears a porcini crusted pork

chop, finishes it with a gorgonzola dolce and porcini cream sauce and serves it with mashed potatoes and roasted veg-etables. The S’mores Silk Pie – James Edward’s favorite – is made with a gra-ham cracker crust, chocolate ganache, chocolate mousse and toasted marsh-mallows. The Pumpkin Spice Cake is a family recipe of Claire’s. The couple offers a full wine bar and has regular tastings and pairings, so check out their events schedule.

The atmosphere at Brandani’s is both family-friendly and well appoint-ed for fine dining. The walls are graced with oil paintings by Ron’s mother. One painting she did long before Ron and Claire made the decision to become restaurateurs is a scene of Brandani’s Restaurant. Sometimes, parents catch the vision for their children long before it becomes a reality. That’s something else I have in common with this lovely couple.

Dine at Brandani’s, and ask for some jalapeño gravy to go! Bon appétit!

Brandani’sRestaurant & Wine Bar

3340 FM 1092, Suite 160Missouri City, TX 77459

832-987-1313

Salmon and Risotto drizzled with a roasted

tomato vinaigrettePumpkin Spice Cake

absolutely!DELICIOUS

• 6 Cups favorite cake recipe or mix• 4 Cups Wilton White Ready-To-Use

Decorator Icing (4.5 pound tub) System

• Black icing pouch with tips • Large candy eyeballs

Prepare cake mix according to box instructions, and make two layers using 6 inch round pans. Bake and cool on cool-ing grid.

Prepare Spring Green icing using this color tint formula from the Color Right Per-formance Color System: 4 cups icing + 30 Y + 6 B. Stack layers on cake plate for a two-layer cake, using leveler as needed. Ice cake sides smooth with green icing.

Use black pouch icing without tip to cover top of cake. Use tip of spatula to cre-ate spiral effect. Use black pouch icing with star tip to pipe pull-out bangs around top edge and two hair strands on cake top.

Prepare a disposable decorating bag with green icing; cut a hole in point of bag the size of tip 3. Attach candy eyeballs with dots of green icing. Pipe green eyelids.

Use black pouch icing with round tip to pipe dot nose and neck bolts, outline mouth and stitches.

In large pitcher, combine club soda, apple juice, Warm Cinnamon Graham and Vanilla Custard flavors and colors. Whisk until well combined. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.

How to Host a Mad Sc ientist Halloween Party

T ransform your house into Frankenstein’s lab with a few party tricks and Halloween treats. Set the scene with a mad scientist-themed sweets table, and carry it home with a crazy good menu featuring

frightfully yummy appetizers, mocktails and of course, treats. For more Halloween party ideas and inspiration, visit www.wilton.com.

TOOLS• 6-by-3-inch round pan• 10-by-16-inch cooling grid• Cake plate• Cake leveler• Angled spatula• Disposable decorating bags

Frankenstein CakeServes 12

Apple Pie PotionMakes 8 to 10 servings

• 1 Liter club soda, chilled• 5 Cups apple juice, chilled• 7 Drops Wilton Treatology Warm Cinnamon Graham Flavor Concentrate• 3 Drops Wilton Treatology Creamy Vanilla Custard Flavor Concentrate• 4 Drops Wilton Yellow Color Right Performance Color• 1 Drop Wilton Blue Color Right Performance Color

T he Guest of Horror: You can’t have a mad scientist Halloween party without Frankenstein. This easy buttercream cake makes a big statement, a fantastic centerpiece for your sweets table and will

make others green with envy over your decorating skills.

L ittle Monsters Mocktail: Play mixologist with a perfect potion recipe fea-turing a few easy ingredients: apple juice, club soda and delicious drops of Treatology flavor concentrates in taste-tempting Cinnamon Graham and

Creamy Vanilla Custard flavors.


Heat oven to 350°F. Prepare two muffin pans with vegetable pan spray.In large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir flour into butter and cook 2 minutes on medium heat, stirring constantly.

Gradually whisk milk into flour mixture and cook until thickened, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and stir in cheeses, onion powder, dry mustard and pepper. Stir in cooked pasta.

Divide evenly into prepared pans. Bake 15 minutes or until bubbly. Cool in pans 15 minutes.Meanwhile, in saucepan, heat chili according to package directions. Serve each macaroni cup on top of 1/4 cup chili. Tip: To make ahead, refrigerate macaroni and cheese cups in muffin pans after baking. When ready to serve, remove

from pans and microwave 30 to 45 seconds each until heated through.

Mac and Cheese Cups with Chili

Makes 24 servings

• 2 Tablespoons butter• 1/4 Cup all-purpose flour• 2 Cups milk• 8 Ounces white American cheese, shredded

• 1 Package (8 ounces) Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

• 1/4 Teaspoon onion powder• 1/4 Teaspoon dry mustard

• 1/4 Teaspoon ground black pepper• 1 Package (16 ounces) elbow pasta,

cooked and kept warm• 2 Cans chili, 25 ounces each

Candy Corn CupcakesMakes 2 dozen cupcakes

Heat oven to 350°F. Prepare muffin pans with baking cups.In large bowl, beat cake mix, egg whites, water and colors with electric mixer at low speed 30 seconds. Scrape bottom

and sides of bowl; beat at medium speed 2 minutes. Divide batter evenly among baking cups, filling about 2/3 full.Bake 18 to 20 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool cupcakes in pans on cooling grid 5

minutes. Remove from pans; cool completely on grid.In medium microwave-safe container, combine Candy Corn Candy Melts Candy and heavy cream. Microwave at 50

percent power 1 minute. Stir. Microwave on half power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until melts are almost melted. Stir thoroughly until mixture is smooth. Cool slightly.

In large bowl, beat shortening with electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add Candy Melts mixture and beat until smooth. Beat in honey and vanilla. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar and beat until light and fluffy. Pipe or spread onto cooled cup-cakes. Top with candy corn, if using.

• 1 Package (16.25 ounces) white cake mix• Egg whites, water and vegetable oil to prepare mix• 17 Drops Wilton Orange Color Right Performance Color• 3 Drops Wilton Yellow Color Right Performance Color• Package (10 ounces) Wilton Limited Edition

Candy Corn Candy Melts Candy

• 1/4 Cup heavy whipping cream• 2/3 Cup solid vegetable shortening• 2 Tablespoons honey• 1 Teaspoon Wilton Imitation Clear Vanilla Extract• 2 Cups confectioners’ sugar • Candy corn for garnish, optional

C hili Mac Cup Concoction: Use a regular muffin pan to bake mac and cheese cups – a fun twist on the kids’ favorite. The macaroni cups are the perfect chili topper for a hearty fall favorite.

C andy Corn Craze: Halloween wouldn’t be the same without candy, especially candy corn. Wow guests with your inventive use of the iconic Halloween flavor.

Source: Family Features



October 2nd – 3rd, 11 amFort Bend County Fair and Rodeo Championship BBQ CookoffDon’t miss this culinary competition as teams fire up the pits in pursuit of the Grand Champion BBQ team title at the Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo, located at 4310 Highway 36 South in Rosenberg. The Fair runs through October 4th, and proceeds help contribute to scholarships and other opportunities for the youth of Fort Bend County. Visit www.fortbendcountyfair.com.

E V E N T S

October 3rd, 9 am Walk in Concert with the Fort Bend Boys Choir!The Fort Bend Boys Choir is gearing up for its 12th walk-a-thon! Walk in Concert will be held at Oyster Creek Park, located at 4033 Highway 6 in Sugar Land. Participants will complete a three-mile walk and receive a walk-a-thon t-shirt. Proceeds will help support the Fort Bend Boys Choir’s music programs, including scholarships for young boys in need. To sponsor, pledge or participate, call 281-240-3800 or visit www.fbbctx.org.

October 3rd, 6 – 11 pm Fall Classic Charity FundraiserJoin the Sugar Land Rotary Club for a happy hour, bid board, live auction, fantastic food and fellowship at Sweetwater Country Club, located at 4400 Palm Royale Boulevard in Sugar Land. As Sugar Land Rotary’s only fundraiser, the event allows guests to have fun while supporting many local Fort Bend County non-profit organizations and the Rotary Foundation’s international initiatives. Visit www.rotaryfallclassic.com.

October 9th, 6:30 – 9 pmFamily Fun Night: Bugs You’ll LoveThe Fort Bend County Master Gardeners and Missouri City Green will be on hand to teach participants about helpful insects, spread the word about Missouri City’s new recycling initiative and share cool bug displays, including an outdoor black light exhibit! Families will also enjoy bug themed activities, crafts and snacks at Missouri City’s Recreation and Tennis Center, located at 2701 Cypress Point Drive. Call 281-403-8637 or visit www.missouricitytx.gov.

October 10th, 10 am – 1 pm Rebuilding the American Dream: Home-Buying 101The First Colony Branch Library, located at 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land, will present a panel discussion about the process of buying or refinancing a home. Learn about the importance of budgeting for down payments and closing costs, house payments, homeowners insurance, property taxes and other expenses that come with owning a home. Call 281-238-2800.

October 10th, 10 – 11:30 amHeritage Tour Join the historic walking tours of Old Sugar Land beginning at the Sugar Land Heritage Foundation, located at 198 Kempner Street in Sugar Land. Ticket fees are $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 12 to 18. Children under 12 are admitted free. To make a reservation or schedule a private tour, contact [email protected] or call 281-494-0261.

October 10th, 2 – 4 pmHear About Space ExplorationThe Missouri City Branch Library, located at 1530 Texas Parkway, will have a special program on the past, present and future of space exploration. Don Cooper, a retired NASA physicist, will discuss the history of United States rockets, his role in designing technology that helped make space travel possible and his experiences with Apollo 11 and Apollo 13. Then, Leonard Ferguson of the Fort Bend Astronomy Club will discuss NASA’s New Frontiers program. Visit www.fortbend.lib.tx.us.

October 12th, 1:30 – 2:30 pmFall Marionette Puppet Show In celebration of autumn, the First Colony Branch Library, located at 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land, invites families with children of all ages to a Fall Marionette Puppet Show featuring exquisitely handcrafted marionettes from the Carranza Puppet Theater. This marionette variety show features music and surprises, from a one-eyed purple people eater to dancing pumpkins! Call 281-238-2800.

October 15th, 6 – 7:30 pm Senior Bingo NightSenior citizens ages 50 and up are invited to fellowship with their peers, enjoy refreshments and play competitive rounds of bingo for great prizes at the Recreation and Tennis Center, located at 2701 Cypress Point Drive in Missouri City. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the door. Call 281-403-8637or visit www.missouricitytx.gov.

October 17th, 9 am – Noon Sugar Land 5K and Team Hope WalkWalk in support of Huntington’s Disease Society of America’s (HDSA) mission to improve the lives of everyone with Huntington’s disease. Thousands of families, friends, co-workers, neighbors and communities walk together each year to support HDSA’s fight to improve the lives of people affected by HD and their families. This community walk takes place at Oyster Creek Park, located at 4033 Highway 6 in Sugar Land. To register, visit www.hdsa.org/teamhope or call 212-242-1968, extension 218.

Gabriel Cote, William R. Adams and Alex Dewey.

Carranza Puppets.


SUGAR LAND TOWN SQUARE CALENDAR OF EVENTS

www.sugarlandtownsquare.comCall 281.313.SLTS

E V E N T SOctober 17th, 7 – 11 pm Couture for the Cause: “A White Haute Affair”The 6th Annual Couture for the Cause will be a fun-filled evening that includes a fabulous pool-side fashion show featuring chic fashions presented by models whose lives have been touched by cancer. Show your support by participating in the Champagne and Diamonds raffle for your chance to win a gorgeous piece of diamond jewelry, replenish your wine cellar with wines from the Wine Pull or honor a loved one who has been affected by cancer. Email [email protected] or call 713-706-5684.

October 18th, 7:15 am Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Try Andy’s TriThe 23rd annual triathlon will take place at the First Colony Aquatic Center Pool, located at 4350 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land. The event includes a 300 meter open water swim, a 10 mile bike ride and a three-mile run. To register, call 281-242-7700 or visit www.slfinishlinesports.com.

October 18th, 2 pm Impossibly PossibleThe Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra will celebrate the diverse world of musicians with disabilities featuring guest artist Daniel Stover on his specialty one-handed saxophone at the Stafford Center, located at 10505 Cash Road. Call 281-276-9642 or visit www.fbso.org.

October 24th, 4:30 – 7 pm Tricks and Treats in the ParkDress up in your Halloween costumes and enjoy an evening of family fun at Buffalo Run Park, located at 1122 Buffalo Run in Missouri City. The event kicks off with a Monster Mile Fun Run, and free t-shirts will be provided for race participants while supplies last. Registration is not required. The race will follow with the Tricks and Treats Trail, which includes hay rides, a petting zoo, games, moonwalks, a pumpkin patch photo station and more! Email [email protected] or call 281-403-8637.

October 24th, 6 – 10 pm Flick-nic on the LawnEnjoy a family-friendly evening at Fort Bend Community Church, located at 7707 Highway 6 in Missouri City. The movie Big Hero 6 will be shown outdoors, and there will be food available for purchase from popular food trucks, as well as inflatable moonwalks for the kids. Admission is free. Visit http://english.fbcchome.org or call 281-499-2131.

October 31st, 8 amFort Bend County Walk to End Alzheimer’sAll funds raised through the 5K walk further the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association. The walk takes place at Constellation Field, located at 1 Stadium Drive in Sugar Land. Call 713-314-1346 or visit http://act.alz.org.

Every Saturday, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, rain or shine

Presented By:

198 Kempner St. at Imperial Sugar Land

Water Treatment Specialists

ENVIRONMENTALPROTECH

Country on City Walk: Live Music Friday, October 2nd 7:30 – 9:30 pm

Flying Saucer Beerfeast Saturday, October 3rd1 – 6 pm

Giving Spirits Concert Series Friday, October 9th 7:30 – 9:30 pm

Movie Under the Moon Saturday, October 10th 6 – 9 pm

Dancing Under the Stars Friday, October 16th 7 – 9 pm

Music in the Plaza Saturday, October 17th 7:30 – 9:30 pm

Music in the Plaza Friday, October 23rd 7:30 – 9:30 pm

38th Annual Concours D’Elegance Car ShowSaturday, October 24th 10 am – 3 pm

The City of Sugar Land’s Halloween TownSunday, October 25th 4 – 8 pm

Hauntcert – Live Music From the Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra Friday, October 30th 7:30 – 9:30 pm

Haute Halloween: A Michael Jackson ExperienceSaturday, October 31st 8 – 9 pm


By Alisa Murraywww.AlisaMurray.comNationally recognizedportrait artist and award-winning columnist.

Living the Sweet Life:

ver the years, I have been inspired to create different

collections. Halloween is, of course, one such time that gives so much opportunity.

I began my Theatrical Spooktacular series a few years back. This has transformed not only my littles into their dream characters, but it has made for some super spectacular art for their homes as well! Here are just a few from my own collection of my daughter,

Victoria Ann, and my son, James Edward.

Happy Halloween!Take Care of You!

Halloween Portraits

Scheduling online is easy — go to houstonmethodist.org/online-scheduling or call 281.274.7170.

One in eight women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. And

85 percent of those women have no family history of the disease. At

Houston Methodist, we know the numbers may be scary, so we’re here

to help you. We offer the latest in breast cancer screening technology

and encourage all women to talk with their doctor about scheduling

their mammogram.

TAKING A LITTLE TIME IN YOUR DAY MAY ADD YEARS TO YOUR LIFE.SO wE MAKE SchEDULING A MAMMOGRAM EASIER.

Houston Methodist Sugar Land now offers 3-D mammography.

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October 2015 - Fort Bend Focus Magazine - People • Places • Happenings