July 2025
Magazine
I
Your smile matters. Your health matters. Your confidence matters.
Expertise matters.
“W
by Alisha McMillen
hat we do in orthodontics crowns and other work,” Dr. Mehta says. “Dr. can influence facial and Herrera and I create the most appropriate airway development treatment plan for each patient together. at an early age. For the Patients can see either of us when they come in best results, your child’s because we’ve both worked on the plan.” first evaluation should be done by age seven, With the practice’s 30 team members if not earlier,” explains Dr. Srishti Mehta, being mostly women, Indigo Orthodontics founder of local Indigo can relate to busy mom Orthodontics. “We can life! Each doctor has two influence the development daughters of their own. of the face, jaw, and airway, “Moms ‘get’ moms. Our improving issues such as own girls are involved in snoring, mouth breathing, after school activities, so and restless sleep.” we understand the time During the early challenges moms face,” evaluation, Dr. Mehta Dr. Mehta says. “We and her partner, Dr. even have select Saturday Angelica Herrera, also “Our trusted team is committed appointment availability.” to great patient care.” look for dental crowding. The orthodontists at “The idea is to create Indigo Orthodontics enough space for adult credit their strong teeth to come in naturally and reliable team with without needing teeth contributing to the success removed. Sometimes your of the practice. “With dentist needs bite and such a dedicated team, teeth adjustments before operations run smoothly 2 ~ UPCLOSE ~ July 2025
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and our patients feel the appreciation and consideration conveyed by the staff every day,” Dr. Mehta says. “Our team is as committed to the patients as Dr. Herrera and I are. We just want to help create happy, confident smiles for everyone who walks through our doors.” “For me, orthodontics was personal. I had a not-so-beautiful smile when growing up. I love orthodontics for the change it can make in people’s lives, not just aesthetically, but also for your health,” Dr. Mehta concludes. Dr. Mehta and her team have been creating happy, confident smiles since 2017. To request your complimentary Indigo Orthodontics consultation at the state-ofthe-art practice on Grand Parkway, visit www.indigoortho.com or call 281-201-2087. No referrals are required. Indigo Orthodontics 281-201-2087 7623 West Grand Parkway S. Richmond, TX 77407 indigoortho.com
Lifestyles & Living
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What’s in the Space between Sugar and Land?
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he space between Sugar and Land represents a rich history of a company town, a town built around a diverse base of residents, a prison town … a city in its own right, not just a suburb of Houston. “That space holds a lot of pride, a sense of ownership and a history of hard workers dedicated to holding onto the meaningful aspects of our past,” says Realtor Cathy Stubbs, the leader of The Cathy Stubbs Team. “It’s a city where every pantry has a bag of Imperial Sugar in it, where people are used to hearing the whistles of dozens of trains that travel through the city every day, and where oldtimers are used to avoiding hitchhikers when driving on Hwy 90 through the former prison land.”
Here’s just a few of the things that define that space between Sugar and Land. Imperial Sugar – Sugar Land became a company town after Isaac H. Kempner of Galveston and William T. Eldridge of Eagle Lake acquired the Ellis and Cunningham plantations and the Cunningham Sugar Company. Between 1918 and 1923, Imperial Sugar built an elementary school and built and staffed its own hospital and fire station to accommodate the needs of Sugar Land’s residents. “I still have some canvas Imperial Sugar sacks I bought at a Heritage Foundation sale. I just love the history behind them,” Cathy says.
Festival on the festival grounds near the Brazos River. As the lead singer repeatedly shouted about performing in Sugarland, the crowd chanted back “Sugar Land, with a space! It’s Sugar Land!” It took a few minutes, but the Commodores leader finally got it. “Oh, it’s Sugar Land, not Sugarland!”
If you’re looking for a home in a city rich with history, a sense of pride that is both earned and learned, and you want to be outside of Houston but still just 12 minutes to the Galleria area, give Sugar Land a look. Let Cathy and her respected team of Realtors help you find your dream home. Just make sure your change of address cards say Sugar Land, not Sugarland.
Historic Black Cemeteries and Sugar Land 95 – The Sugar Land 95 are 95 African-American individuals unearthed during a construction project. Archaeologists found evidence that the 95 individuals belonged to the state of Texas’ convict leasing system and were buried in the unmarked gravesite. The Sugar Land 95 is just one of the historic Black Cemeteries in Fort Bend County. State Prisons – The Central Unit was a Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) men’s prison in Sugar Land on Highway 90A near Highway 6. You can still see many of the buildings from this unit. Most notably, the Houston Museum of Natural Science in Sugar Land converted the 1939 Central State Farm Prison Building into the 43,000-square-foot Museum of Natural Science annex. According to the City of Sugar Land, the earliest written record the Heritage Foundation has on file is the 1860 Census, where Sugar Land is spelled properly with two words. When building the Dust Estate for Sugarland Industries in 1919, the document from the attorney used the one word spelling. It wasn’t until the city’s incorporation in 1959 that the two word spelling for the city was cemented. This past May, the famous band, the Commodores, performed at the Sugar Land Jazz
Cathy Stubbs Team | www.cathystubbs.com | 281-967-6149
On the cover:
Publishers John & Alisha McMillen Business Editor Alisha McMillen Layout and Design Night Sky Creative Account Executives John McMillen Gina Pizzini Writers Alisha McMillen Amy Sharp Nicole Grace Photography J. Thomas “Jay” Ford UpClose Magazine is published monthly and direct mailed to 75,000 homes. For information on having your business featured in UpClose, call
832-567-9712 john@upclosemagazine.com
On the cover: For the team at Indigo Orthodontics, YOUR smile, health, and confidence matter. And THEIR expertise matters when creating better smiles.
A portion of the editorial content contained in this publication is controlled and contracted by the advertisers contained herein and is part of their advertisement. UpClose Magazine is not responsible for content of these editorials or advertisements. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.
Collaborating for the Community F ort Bend’s premier newspaper, the Fort Bend Independent, and the county’s leading magazine, UpClose, have partnered to provide Fort Bend residents with timely and relevant news and features that are important to its residents. The Fort Bend Independent serves 20,000 weekly readers in our community. It is supported by local community members and was conceived by experienced journalist Seshadri Kumar, with his decades-long contacts and professional experience with the Fort Bend communities. The Independent is a valuable supplement for people who rely on the media for information. General manager of the Fort Bend Independent, John Sazma, has his finger on the pulse of the county. UpClose Magazine is published by John McMillen and his wife, Alisha. It is distributed to 75,000 homes on the first of every month in Fort Bend County – from Sugar Land to Missouri City to Richmond/ Rosenberg. The magazine gets Fort Bend residents up close and personal with neighboring businesses, sharing the information they need to know to make informed choices for their homes and lifestyles. This year, UpClose and the Fort Bend Independent have joined forces to sponsor Fort Bend’s Best of 2025 awards. The county’s best service providers, restaurants, and businesses will be reported jointly by the two publications in the coming months. The first installment of awards are being announced this month in both the newspaper and the magazine. “Together, UpClose Magazine and the Fort Bend Independent want to help our readers when making purchase decisions by sharing the businesses their neighbors love and trust,” John Sazma says. “With so many combined years of publishing under our belts, John and I are familiar with the businesses readers prefer and wish to share that knowledge with
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by Nicole Grace
our neighbors.” The Fort Bend Independent and UpClose have also collaborated to offer advertisers bundled deals to run ads in both publications. “The newspaper and magazine share some readership overlap, but each publication also offers exclusive readership to every end of Fort Bend County,” John Sazma says. “Our combined history with Fort Bend’s most frequented and respected businesses gives our readers new and exciting features every week and month, with the added benefit of the hard news that our neighbors need to read.” For more information about the awards program or the collaboration, contact John Sazma at 832-668-9299 or John McMillen at 832-567-9712.
The Fort Bend Independent 832-668-9299 fbindependent.com UpClose Magazine 832-567-9712 upclosemagazine.com
It’s Summer! by Alisha McMillen
F
Time for a
Sparkling Clean
Pool
or years, Jeff Owens worked out in the Texas oilfields. “Valves, pumps, motors – anything flowing comes natural to me after my time out in the oilfields,” he explains. “So, I decided to make the full-time switch to pool maintenance and service, where I work with motors and pumps every day.” That was more than a decade ago. For 11 years, the owner of JSO Pool Service and Maintenance, has been keeping Fort Bend County pools crystal clear and ready for play. “I started by helping a family member. I love working with my hands and tinkering with things,” Jeff says. “The repair side is what I really love.” JSO Pool Service and Maintenance is a one-stop shop for all of your pool-related needs. “I offer service, maintenance, remodels, and new construction,” he continues. “I’m licensed to do repairs. I’m always honest with my clients – if I don’t think they need something replaced, I’ll tell them to save the money.” Born and raised in the Houston area, Jeff, a fisherman and pool player, now
lives and works in Richmond. He is a girl dad, with two daughters – a 23-year-old nurse who lives in Corpus Christi, and a 16-year-old junior at Travis High School. “I love working for myself and setting my own hours. I can be around to help my family when they need it,” he explains. “But I do love to work. I take on a lot because I like to stay busy.” “This business has helped me forge a lot of good friendships. I get to learn about my clients’ lives and watch their kids grow up,” Jeff continues. “I’ve also made great friends in the industry and we help each other … we bounce ideas off of each other.” JSO Pool Service and Maintenance serves residential pools in the Richmond, Sugar Land, Missouri City, and south Katy areas. Let Jeff take care of your pool, so you can just relax and enjoy the refreshing, clear waters with your family! JSO Pool Service and Maintenance 832-628-6071 Facebook: JSO Pool Services
Congratulations to Fort Bend’s Best!
Best Sushi: Keepers Japanese Restaurant & Bar Best Personal Injury Attorney: James Amaro of the Amaro Law Firm UpClose Magazine and the Fort Bend Independent are excited to announce the winners of the first round of the Best of Fort Bend County for 2025.
Best Animal Clinic: Sugar Creek Animal Clinic
Thanks to everyone who voted in this round. Please vote in future rounds for your favorite neighborhood businesses!
Best A/C and Heating: Taurus Mechanical
Vote online: fbindependent.com To advertise, 832-567-9712
Best Chinese Restaurant: Hunan Garden Rosenberg Best Veterinarian: James Cox, DVM UPCLOSE ~ July 2025 ~ 5
KAUSHI KNOWS SUGAR LAND’S MEDICAL LANDSCAPE
by Alisha McMillen
M
edicare can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. “I’ve always been in the health insurance industry and I love helping seniors,” says Kaushi Shah, a provider of Medicare and healthcare solutions for Sugar Land’s seniors. Kaushi’s KS Insurance is a part of Clutch City Insurance. Clutch City Insurance sells health insurance, specializing in Medicare supplemental insurance for people aged 65+. Clutch City’s main office is in Houston, but Kaushi’s office is right here in Sugar Land. “I’ve been in Sugar Land for 28 years – I raised my children here,” Kaushi explains. “I am local, and I know the doctors in our area and the plans they accept.” “Insurance is very complicated, especially for seniors,” she continues. “When my mom hit that age, I wanted to help her understand everything related to Medicare to ensure she chose the right coverage. Picking the right plan is different for everyone, but is so important.” Kaushi was born in India and speaks English, Hindi, and Gujarati. “It’s very nice working with seniors in our local Indian community. I speak their language and create a comfort zone for them,” she says. Involved in the local community, she attends health fair events in Sugar Land to reach more people and share her knowledge. She participates in the local temple, and she runs educational seminars in Sugar Land and Missouri City. “Annual enrollment starts October 15,” Kaushi says. “I can help seniors by reviewing their plans now.” “Our agents help seniors decide which plan fits their individual needs, including doctors, hospitals, and prescription drug coverage,” says Andrew Cheng, owner of Clutch City Insurance. “In late summer, Kaushi will begin offering educational Medicare 101 seminars to help seniors
understand their options.” Stay tuned to the Clutch City website for details of seminars in your area. Kaushi concludes, “I live in Sugar Land, I work in Sugar Land, and I know all the doctors in Sugar Land. I understand the medical landscape of our community and want to share that with our seniors.”
KS Insurance 832-282-3515 4807 Sugar Grove Blvd., Ste 404 Stafford, TX 77477 Clutch City Insurance 713-870-5044 10333 Harwin Drive, Ste 265 Houston, TX 77036 ccihou.com
Ultra-fast Kinetic Fiber Internet has arrived in Sugar Land. Get 99.9% network reliability and more than 25x faster upload speeds than cable internet. Fiber plans start at
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Kinetic Gig Speed Fiber has up to 1 Gig upload speed, which is more than 25x faster upload speed than the best advertised 1 Gig cable internet speed, which has 30-35 Mbps upload speed as of June 2024. Kinetic by Windstream: Offer expires 6/25/25. This nontransferable offer for residential customers may not be combined with other promotions. Subject to: availability, credit restrictions, Windstream Terms and Conditions (www.windstream.com/terms), and Windstream Acceptable Use Policy (www.windstream.com/about/ legal/acceptable-use-policy). *$24.99 Fiber Internet Eligibility: To be eligible, must be a new Kinetic Broadband Internet customer (i.e., you have not received Kinetic Internet service within the past 30 days) to qualify. Advertised rate is for 1 year and is based on 100Mbps service (and includes $5/mo. AutoPay bill credit). After the advertised rate period, the then current standard rate will apply. Printed bills incur a $2/mo. charge for paper billing (excluding MN, NE, NM, NY, OK, PA, TX, or otherwise prohibited). Promotional credit applicable at sign-up; AutoPay requires separate enrollment. Register for AutoPay though the Go Kinetic Portal[www.windstream.com/gokinetic] or by calling a service representative at 877-807-9463. After enrollment, $5 AutoPay bill credit may take up to two billing cycles to reflect on the bill. Customer is responsible for payment of applicable taxes, fees, and surcharges, as these are not included in promotional or standard rates. Additional restrictions may apply. Kinetic Internet: Kinetic cannot guarantee specific upload/download speeds, uninterrupted service, or error free service. Speed availability, capabilities, and provisioning vary depending on several factors: network and terrain conditions; Internet, website, or network congestion; effect of wi-fi use; number of concurrent users; device limitations; and customer location. Speeds ≥25 Mbps are provisioned in a range, including a minimum and maximum speed. Kinetic will provision the fastest speed within that range but may be less than the maximum. Equipment: Monthly equipment fees may apply. Kinetic-provided modems support in-home Wi-Fi, actual device speeds may be lower than advertised or service plan speeds. Modem equipment must be returned upon termination, a $100 fee may apply if not returned. Reward Card Offer: Value of Reward Card varies based on broadband speed selected; not all broadband speeds qualify for a Reward Card: $100 for 1 Gig Service, and $200 for 2 Gig and up Service. Kinetic Reward Prepaid Mastercard: After eligibility has been confirmed by Kinetic, which is determined in Kinetic’s sole discretion, customers will receive a redemption email and can choose immediate electronic delivery or a physical card by mail. If physical card delivery is selected, a $3 shipping and handling fee will be deducted from the amount of the card and the card will ship within 5-7 business days. There is a maximum of one prepaid card per household. Use your card anywhere Mastercard is accepted in the U.S. This card is issued by The Bancorp Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International. Mastercard and the circles design are registered trademarks of Mastercard International Incorporated. The Bancorp Bank, N.A.; Member FDIC. This is not a gift card. This card is issued for loyalty, award or promotional purposes. 99.9% Service Availability: As measured by Windstream from March 2023 to January 2025, Kinetic service reliability is calculated by dividing Available Customer Hours by Total Customer Hours, excluding planned maintenance, emergencies (like hurricanes, winter storms, floods), and other uncontrollable events. ©2025 Windstream Intellectual Property Services, LLC. All rights reserved. Kinetic and Windstream are registered service marks or trademarks of Windstream Intellectual Property Services, LLC. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.
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4/16/2025 8:41:34 AM
It’s
NEVER
too Early or too Late to START PLANNING
by Alisha McMillen
I
f something happened to you, is your family prepared to plan your service, distribute your belongings, and organize your money? “I can help provide the tools for the Executor to plan the funeral and manage the tasks associated with being the Executor,” says Gina Klein with Planned with Purpose. “You’ll need an attorney for the legal requirements, and a funeral home or cremation company, but my tools can help you make informed decisions with confidence.” Planned with Purpose provides digital questionnaires and forms that, when complete, fill a custom binder that covers: Funeral Questionnaire – record details like preferred funeral home, pallbearers, music, cremation versus burial, and desired music. Financial Asset Form – include retirement funds, real estate, and bank accounts. Personal Property Asset Form – provide details about family jewelry pieces, recipes, crystal and china, and other meaningful possessions. Family history questionnaire – provide your family tree, list important people in your life, and share your first memory as a child. Free Obituary Writer – a free tool to help you write your own obituary.
Gina’s knowledge has grown through the years from helping family members conduct end-of-life planning. She started helping her parents in 2010. “I learned that ‘location, location, location’ is a true statement when it comes to funeral homes. An in-town funeral home may cost $14,000, while its counterpart further outside of town only costs $10,000,” she explains. “I helped my aunt and uncle, who wished to be cremated, and learned that I could purchase their urn from Amazon at a much cheaper price than purchasing it directly from the funeral home,” Gina continues. As one might expect, Gina has designed her own end-of-life celebration using Planned with Purpose. “I want a trip to the beach with our closest friends and family using my recipes for a cookout. Instead of a traditional obituary, my To advertise, 832-567-9712
family will pass out a recipe card with my favorite recipes,” she explains. Gina designed the binder with resources and tools to initially get through the first five days after a loved one’s death (and beyond). “The first few days are a very difficult time full of big decisions,” she continues. “When my mom passed during Covid, within an hour and a half, the hospital asked me where they should transport her. I was surprised with how quickly I had to make this decision while I was still in shock. Luckily, I had that information at my fingertips in my mom’s binder.” A resident of Sugar Land since 1996, Gina sourced all of the items in her binder, including the foil-printed binder itself, right here in the Houston area. “You’re buying American when you buy from me,” she says. “Grief clouds clear thinking and families can be complicated,” Gina concludes. “Read my blog on my website for even more information. My goal is to help people … to make a difficult time for them easier. I want folks to start thinking outside the box and making things more personal.” Planned with Purpose can be found on all social media platforms. Planned with Purpose 713-887-3650 plannedwithpurposellc.com
UPCLOSE ~ July 2025 ~ 7
S
A/C Repair or Plumber? by Nicole Grace
ummer in Houston means your air condi- you add that sludge to typical items that tioner is running constantly and A/C repair go down your sink drain – hair, soap scum, businesses are working overtime. You may toothpaste – your A/C drains can back up not realize, but an overworked A/C can and overflow. cause problems that only a plumber can fix. “Every summer brings regular calls regarding How to prevent overflowing A/C drains A/C condensate lines,” says Katie McFarland, • Flush the A/C condensate line in the attic – “We part of the administrative team at Alan’s recommend flushing the condensate line twice Plumbing. Katie takes calls, evaluates prob- a year,” says Luke Burkhalter, longtime plumblems, and assigns plumbers to jobs. er and son of the company’s namesake, Alan. The air conditioning unit itself is A/C, while “Pour a half-gallon of bleach into the line in the every drain line coming off the unit is techni- attic, and flush thoroughly with hot water.” cally plumbing. A/C units • Flush the sink drain that the A/C line have a condensate drain Pro Tip: is connected to (the bathroom sink line routed into some type Pay close attention to your referenced above) – “If you can’t get of plumbing drain, typically secondary into your attic, pour one-half galbathrooms, a bathroom sink. lon of bleach down the sink drain, especially if you rarely “Have you ever seen a use that area. The A/C flush thoroughly with hot water,” weird looking black rubber line is typically in a guest Luke continues. hose under your lavatory bathroom sink. In two• After your A/C company completes sink?” Katie asks. “That’s story homes, A/C lines are any maintenance, call Alan’s Plumbing the A/C condensate line!” for a drain check-up – “It’s best to often routed into a second If you find water sitting floor bathroom. have Alan’s Plumbing follow up after in your sink, your sink drain an A/C company has been out to needs to be cleared out to ensure no build up was pushed into allow the A/C condensate to drain properly. the lines. The lines may need to be cleared out A/C condensation has a sludgy texture. When before they cause a problem,” Luke concludes.
“I taught my plumbers everything I know about professionalism in plumbing. It’s tough work, but it’s truly rewarding,” Alan says. For nearly 30 years, Alan’s Plumbing has been the go-to, honest, licensed plumbing company here in Fort Bend. In the early days, the team consisted of only Alan and his wife, Jennifer. Today, Alan’s brother, Chris, works alongside Alan’s two oldest sons, Beau and Luke, and plumbers Jaime, Christian, and Anthony. Apprentices Nick, Noah, and PJ round out the plumbing team, while Alan’s wife, Jennifer, manages the administrative responsibilities with the help of Katie and Katy. (The youngest Burkhalter brother, Jake, is in plumbing sales).
Alan’s Plumbing
281-261-1064 License M-18995 RMP Alan Burkhalter
WWW.ALANS.PLUMBING
8 ~ UPCLOSE ~ July 2025
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Happy Employees
Make Happy Customers
A
by Alisha McMillen
t Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land, everyone is doing their jobs to take care of customers so they can relax and enjoy the difference. What makes it easier for employees to put their best foot forward every single day? When managers show employees that what they’re doing is appreciated. “We’re a tight-knit family at Classic,” says Patty Werner from Classic’s Human Resources department. “And we show our teams how much we appreciate them in so many fun ways. When your managers and co-workers appreciate you, you take good care of the customer. We show up every day and work together as a team.” Classic has recognition programs for their sales, service, and parts departments. “We also have holiday luncheons, including a Halloween costume contest and a
Christmastime ugly sweater contest, both with monetary awards,” Patty says. “We just love to get together and laugh with each other.” Some of the most meaningful celebrations are conducted by department managers. “Our managers like to bring out the flattop and the grill to cook for their employees as a way to show their appreciation for the employees’ hard work,” Patty says. “They are out there cooking and sweating just to show our employees how appreciated they are.” “I love firing up the flattop for the team— there’s something about sharing a hot meal that brings everyone together,” says Sales Manager Renee Saenz. “It’s my way of showing appreciation and reminding them that their hard work doesn’t go unnoticed. When people feel valued, morale goes up, teamwork gets stronger, and that positivity shows in every customer interaction. Happy
teams take better care of people, and that’s what it’s all about.” Like the entire Classic team, “our service department is a very strong family. We pride ourselves on it,” says David Alexander, Fixed Operations Director for the Classic service department. “My service manager, Ronnie, likes to make hamburgers and hot dogs for them. When your top managers are cooking and serving food to you, it makes you feel special. And when you feel special, you want to be sure your clients feel special too.” Thanks to Classic’s committed employees, the dealership has earned Dealer of the Year for 14 consecutive years. Appreciated employees result in better customer service. Whether buying a new car or servicing the vehicle you have now, you’ll feel the difference at Classic Chevy Sugar Land.
Classic Chevy Sugar Land 13115 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-491-9000 www.classicchevysugarland.com
Classic Chevy 8100 HWY 6 South Houston, TX 77083 281-983-9807 www.classicchevyhwy6.com
Classic Buick GMC 16835 Katy Freeway Houston, TX 77094 281-579-4300 www.classicelitebuickgmc.com
To advertise, 832-567-9712
UPCLOSE ~ July 2025 ~ 9
Exchange Club Welcomes New President and Board Members by Alisha McMillen
J
uly 1st marks the start of a new fiscal year for the Exchange Club of Sugar Land, which brings new faces in essential positions within the club. Juli Fournier, with Stephenson Fournier Law Firm, steps into the role of President, while four members – Bridget Yeung of Fort Bend Financial, Michael Andrade with Maverick Benefit Advisors, John McMillen of UpClose Magazine, and Prateek Verma with The Bridge Group – join the board. “When I learned about the Exchange Club of Sugar Land, I was immediately drawn to the mission of serving the community through projects that promote patriotism, support families, and uplift those in need,” Prateek says. “But it was Field of Honor that truly captured my heart. Seeing thousands of American flags waving in perfect formation, each one representing a hero, a memory, a sacrifice, left a lasting impression on me. I knew I had to get involved.” The patriotic month of July puts the club in
mind of the Field of Honor, which occurs in November around Veteran’s Day. Planning has already begun for the event – a panorama of United States flags flying in a solemn formation at the University of Houston Sugar Land campus that brings the community together in a patriotic tribute to honor heroes. Flags are sponsored to honor individuals currently serving in our military, veterans, fallen servicemen and women, first responders, educators, coaches, clergy, and other heroes in our lives. Bridget adds that the club also helps the children in our community, particularly with prevention of child abuse, the project for the National Exchange Club, of which the Sugar Land club is a part. “Through its fundraising and philanthropic efforts, the Exchange Club helps so many of our community’s disadvantaged children,” she says. John McMillen, UpClose Magazine’s publisher, is excited to be working with the board to make Sugar Land a better place to live. “Having seen the impact we have on a daily basis, I’m excited to engage in a
leadership role in helping the deserving people in our community,” he says. “At the Exchange Club, I find myself surrounded by passionate, like-minded individuals who don’t just talk about making a difference – they live it,” Prateek Verma Prateek says. Prateek is a Realtor with The Bridge Group. Founded on the philosophy of ‘treating every client like our only client,’ they are proud of the five-star service – their motto is developing ‘relationships’ over transactions. It’s their mission to connect buyers to a place they can call home, helping people achieve their dreams. You can reach Prateek at 832-451-8667 or visit www.bridgegrouptx.com.
EXCHANGE SUGAR LAND, TEXAS Exchange Club of Sugar Land ecsl.org president@ecsl.org Meetings every Wednesday morning, 7 am Sugar Creek Country Club
Mark Your Calendars for one of our biggest issues of the year! TACL B018036E
Residential A/C & Heating O 39 years in business
O Voted best A/C and Heating
in Fort Bend O Locally owned and operated O Residential maintenance and installation
August - the DOC
Cell (832) 731-5256
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(281) 242-6858
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TaurusHVAC.com 10 ~ UPCLOSE ~ July 2025
To be featured in this UpClose special issue, get in touch now!
832-567-9712
John@UpCloseMagazine.com
Serving the Fort Bend Community with Pride
AMARO T
by Alisha McMillen
he attorneys at Amaro Law Firm are committed to treating clients with respect, guided by their client service standards of assurance, compassion, and empathy. “These standards are a result of 20 years in the industry, dealing with clients who are in unthinkable positions,” James Amaro explains. “We just want to see life-changing results for those who deserve it.” From the Community WHY is James Amaro the best Personal Injury Attorney in the county? (Names withheld for privacy.) “James is one of the most selfless human beings I have ever met. He made me feel valued, and he made me feel important, and it was heartwarming. It was a traumatic experience and to have someone guide you every step of the way was nice. I had a wonderful experience from beginning to end.”
CONGRATULATIONS
JAMES AMARO Voted BEST
PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY in Fort Bend County!
“The Amaro Law Firm took a lot of initiative. They were very attentive to my care and my treatment. They helped me a lot and even when I would forget to give them a call or would not be on time to things, they were always there on top of things to make sure I was getting the proper treatment. I feel like, overall, throughout the entire case, they were really great.”
“If I could describe the Amaro Law Firm with one word, I feel like it would be purposeful. They have a lot of purpose in what they do. They took great care of me and everyone was pleasant and super helpful. I always say this, if I’m working somewhere – how would I like my family and my friends to be treated in an establishment? The way I was treated here is the way I would want someone else to be treated.”
“I had life-changing damages and I wanted to be sure my case was handled correctly. The thing I felt like the Amaro team did the best was they kept me informed about what was going on. They never made me feel like I wasn’t getting answers to my questions.” From Amaro Law Firm “Our number one core value is to be used and useful to others,” Amaro says. The firm does this every day for their clients, but also serves the community in a variety of ways including its annual scholarship program for local students. The scholarship opens each spring and is available to eligible graduating seniors from Fort Bend ISD and Lamar CISD pursuing higher education. “We understand the financial burden of continuing education. Our Amaro Law Firm scholarship helps support students pursuing their academic goals,” Amaro explains. “We give back to the great community that supports us. We’re here to help.”
The Amaro Law Firm 713-864-1941 Sugar Land: 322 Brooks Street Houston (Principal Office): 2500 E. TC Jester Blvd., Suite 525 amarolawfirm.com For more information: fortbendvip@amarolawfirm.com
To advertise, 832-567-9712
UPCLOSE ~ July 2025 ~ 11
One team One focus YOU
F CUS
The Benefits of Compounded Progesterone by Amy Sharp
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rogesterone is one of many hormones manufactured by the body that plays a pivotal role in a woman’s reproductive system. Progesterone is released by the ovaries and is particularly important for a normal menstrual cycle, ovulation, and for a healthy pregnancy. It prepares the lining of the uterus for implantation and maintains the pregnancy. Dr. Lisa Mathew, compounding pharmacist at local Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy, says, “Here at Campbell’s, we partner with area OB/GYN offices and fertility specialty clinics to compound progesterone replacement therapy for patients that require it.” Why compound? “Perhaps the number one reason to compound progesterone is dosage,” continues Dr. Mathew. “Since we are custom-making the medication, we can tailor the dose to the patient. For example, to maintain pregnancy, progesterone needs to be at an optimal level … and the required supplemental dose is not the same for everyone. We do not want to underdose or overdose. By compounding, we can get the progesterone dose just right.” “Administration form is another reason to compound,” continues Dr. Mathew. “We can compound progesterone as an
injectable, a vaginal suppository, or an oral medication. The beauty of this versatility is that if one dosage form doesn’t work for you, we can try another route.” “Finally, allergies. The oral form of manufactured progesterone contains peanut oil. It’s no secret that peanuts are near the top of the allergy list. We can create a progesterone supplement without peanut oil (or any other undesired ingredients!),” she concludes. Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy was founded in 2003 by Dr. Lance Campbell, Pharm.D., R.Ph. For irregular cycles, missed periods, obtaining and maintaining pregnancy, and more, Campbell’s works with your doctor to create progesterone replacement therapy in the dosage and form that works for your body. Because it’s important!
“If our staff can’t make it… then you probably don’t need it!” Campbell’s Compounding Pharmacy Sugar Land 281-980-2555 4760 Sweetwater Blvd., Suite 103 Sugar Land, TX 77479 Houston 713-668-4833 6603 Kirby Dr. Houston, TX 77005 campbellscompounding.com
DESIGN INSPIRATION
2025
Step into your own SPA! Reinvent your bathroom. Let Lone Star Floors make your vision a reality. Visit one of our three showrooms or call/text us at 713-240-9766 to discuss your remodel today!
Lone Star Floors • 3 Locations • www.lonestarfloors.com Sugar Land: 281-564-1345 10009 Highway 6 South Sugar Land, TX
12 ~ UPCLOSE ~ July 2025
Katy: 281-398-2319 873 South Mason Rd. #300 Katy, TX
Woodlands: 832-813-0813 24627 I-45 North Suite # A The Woodlands/Spring, TX
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F R O M
LONE STAR
FLOORS
DENTAL Health: Pro Tips for Parents
Special Care
for
Special Teeth
by Nicole Grace
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any parents of children with special needs put off taking their child to the dentist for years because they may require more attention than others. Dr. Faisal Khan, founder of local Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental, says, “Many individuals with special needs are at higher risk for developing dental and oral diseases. We do not recommend delaying routine dental care.” “We can accommodate most special needs kids in our office,” continues Dr. Khan. “My staff understands that some kids have limitations. Tell us about your child’s limitations, and we’ll do our best to accommodate them.” Some of the situations Dr. Khan’s team is adept at dealing with are: •Kids who are sensitive to touch; •Children who are nervous around new people; and •Patients who don’t adapt well to a change of environment or routine. “Depending on the situation, we have mild sedation options available,” Dr. Khan continues. “For kids with needs that just can’t be met in a dental chair, we offer hospital dentistry. Sometimes it’s the most compassionate approach for children who struggle with medical or emotional challenges.” It’s not just special needs children who need the extra care that Dr. Khan and his team provide. For example, one patient, now in her thirties, continues to visit Dr. Khan for check-ups after she entered adulthood because she’s so comfortable with him. Her grandmother says, “My granddaughter has high anxiety, and Dr. Khan knows just how to deal with it. We couldn’t ask for a better dentist.” Dr. Khan completed his general practice residency at Montefiore Medical Ctr/Albert Einstein Medical School. He then pursued a fellowship at Albert Einstein Medical School in Special Care Dentistry, which involved extensive training working with children with various complicated medical and physical
disabilities. He has expertise in behavior management, sedation, and a variety of other techniques to make sure your special needs child is comfortable throughout each visit, based on their health needs. While all children yearn for gentle and caring dental care, caring for a special needs patient takes extraordinary amounts of compassion and understanding. Dr. Khan and his team, including Dr. Priyanshi Ritwik, Dr. Annie Zheng, and Dr. Khadija Khan, are committed to making your child’s dental care as comfortable and easy as possible.
Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental Dr. Faisal M. Khan, DDS 832-579-0960 7910 W. Grand Parkway S., Suite 100 Richmond, TX 77406 grandparkwaypediatricdental.com Memorial Pediatric Dental Dr. David Tang, DDS 281-822-6600 791 Town & Country Blvd., Suite 210 Houston, TX 77024 memorialpediatricdds.com
To advertise, 832-567-9712
UPCLOSE ~ July 2025 ~ 13
the
Scene Be seen in
Fort Bend Regional Council May 22 12th Annual Helen Cordes Luncheon
East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry June 13 Fort Bend Empty Bowls
Exchange Club of Sugar Land May 25 A Night to Remember, Honoring our Fallen Heroes
14 ~ UPCLOSE ~ July 2025
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A Bathroom Designed for Aging in Place by Alisha McMillen
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retired Missouri City couple, in their home for 30 years, decided the time was right to update their primary bath. “When we met Teri (Gilberg, the Re-Modelista), we Your immediately felt like she’s a nice and trustworthy person,” the homeowner says. “We love our home and our neighborhood. We want to stay here, so we Specialist made a few changes to age in place.” ‘Age in place’ refers to the concept of remaining in your home and community as you age, rather than moving to a nursing home or assisted living facility. It emphasizes maintaining independence and comfort in a familiar environment. This often involves making necessary modifications to the home and accessing supportive services to ensure safety and well-being. “We added a bench in the shower, which is actually handy for all ages,” the homeowner continues. “We also added several grab bars. I was comfortable with the layout, so I wanted to keep the basic floor plan the same. It’s within my comfort level.” To complete the update, Teri’s team took down wallpaper, retextured walls, painted, and installed new tile, sinks, marble countertops, and fixtures. She also offered three hours working with a designer. Together, they picked out countertops and flooring. “(The designer) Louise has seen all of the products used in other projects so she knows what works. A good designer is worth their weight in gold,” the homeowner says. “We picked an Italian tile – it’s very sophisticated and rich, but also simple with some movement. The color on the walls is Ginger Root … it’s what we’ll put in the rest of the house when we update it. With our colors and textures, you can just change out the art and have an entirely different look.” “Teri’s people are amazing. They’re all so nice and really work hard,” she continues. “It’s scary to hand over cash to a contractor. You have to know you can trust them. And I felt comfortable with all of them in my home.” The homeowners love the entire bathroom, but their favorite part is the walk-in shower. “It’s functional, but also beautiful. And it drains well,” she explains. “The shower bench, new cubby for toiletries, and grab bar really make my life easier. It’s perfect for aging in place.”
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Kitchen Bath
As far as the process, it was much quicker, easier, and less dusty than the homeowners thought it would be. “I had such a great experience with Teri,” the homeowner explains. “She would call every day. If a subcontractor was going to be late, she’d communicate that with us. It makes a huge impression to communicate delays or issues in a timely manner.” “You can spend the same amount of money on an ugly bathroom,” she continues. “You spend so much time at home, it has to be comfortable. The colors and layout should make you happy. I’m thrilled with the final product, thrilled with the workers, and thrilled with Teri.”
Did you know? The Re-Modelista provides three hours of design services by a professional designer on every project at no charge! Whether you’re struggling with design, or you have a great idea that you’re just not sure how to complete, complimentary design services will bring your remodel to life in a way you're sure to love.
The Re-Modelista Your Home Renovation Specialist Serving Fort Bend County For More Than 10 Years NEW OFFICE LOCATION in Feather & Nest Interiors 3711 Raoul Wallenberg Lane Missouri City, TX 77459 832-731-3191 theremodelista.com
To advertise, 832-567-9712
UPCLOSE ~ July 2025 ~ 15
THEIR ORTHOPEDIC EXPERTISE KEEPS ME MOVING When an injury puts you on the sidelines, your Houston Methodist orthopedic team puts expertise into play. We’ll customize a minimally invasive treatment plan to get you back out there — doing the things you love.
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That’s the difference between practicing medicine and leading it. For you.
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