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Lucas Chavez

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CONTRIBUTORS

J U N E 2 0 1 4 | V O L U M E 2 | N U M B E R 7

18

Zeenat Kassam MithaCultural CorrespondentPage 18

8 MAKING MEMORIES,BEAUTIFULLY WITH WEDDING COORDINATOR EXTRAORDINAIRE LUCAS CHAVEZ Lucas Chavez, owner of LC Floral Designs in Richmond, has been successfully planning high-profile events in Fort Bend County for many years, including weddings. With creativity and attention to detail, Chavez makes dream weddings come true for couplesto cherish forever.

Lucas Chavez.Photography by Nesossi Studios.

C O V E R S T O R Y

ON THE COVER:Lucas Chavez.

Photography by Nesossi Studios.

33

Joan FrancesContributorPages 33 & 44

8

Michelle Johnsonabsolutely! focus mediaPage 8

F E A T U R E S

18 YIP YIP HOORAY!Youth In Philanthropy awarded 67 scholarships at the Annual Investment in Youth Luncheon.

21 FORT BEND WEDDINGSJune is the most popularmonth for weddings. Don’tmiss these blushing bridesand their gorgeous celebrations.

40 THINGS WE LOVEJust for Dads and Grads!

B U S I N E S S B R I E F S

30 RIBBON CUTTINGS

31 ROSENBERGPOLICE DEPARTMENTAnnounces Assistant Chief

C O L U M N S

33 HIGH SCHOOL HOT SHOTMeredith Hopkins: Passion and Drive = Success

44 A LITTLE PIECE OF HISTORYRichmond Heritage: The Darst–Yoder Home

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

38 2014 CADILLAC CTS

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

6 EDITOR’S POINT OF VIEW

12 SEEN ON THE SCENE

34 OUT & ABOUT INTHE HEART OF BRAZOS

41 COMMUNITY EVENTS

42 COMMUNITY MARKETPLACE

38

Steve KursarAuto EnthusiastPage 38


EXCLAMATION POINTS!T H E I N S I D E S C O O P S T R A I G H T F R O M T H E T O P

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Vol. 2 No. 7 | June 2014

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

Publishedby

Summer is finally here! I must say at my house we are all breathing a collective sigh of relief. We are all ready for a more relaxed, laid back pace – if only for a while.

While we enjoy a respite from our hectic schedule, for many families, June is an incredibly busy month because of a long-standing tradition: weddings. So many brides choose a date in June as their wedding date, and in this issue, we take a look at some Fort Bend weddings, some beautiful brides and the go-to guru for weddings and special events in the Bend: Lucas Chavez of LC Floral Designs. I’ve known Lucas for many years, and I can absolutely tell when I walk into an event if he has had a hand in the décor. His unique sense of style and design makes everything simply beautiful, and as Lucas says, “over-the-top glamorous.”

In June, we also celebrate dads and grads. If you’re looking for an extra special gift to celebrate, we have some ideas on page 40 with our Things We Love for Dads and Grads. And, all of the gifts are available right here in Fort Bend.

I recently attended an event that so impressed me that I felt compelled to feature it in absolutely! Brazos. I, along with over 700 guests, joined Dee Koch for the Annual Investment in Youth Luncheon. This amazing program, Youth In Philanthropy (YIP), is teaching the next generation of Fort Bend residents the importance of community and of giving back, while awarding $90,000 in scholarships to Fort Bend students. There are many ways to support YIP, and I encourage you to read about this shining star of success in our community on page 18.

To all of our Brazos dads, we wish you a Happy Father’s Day, and to all of our Brazos grads, we congratulate you on your achievements.

Absolutely! yours,

[email protected]

Editor-in-Chief, PATTI PARISH-KAMINSKI

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

Patti and Tim Kaminski at the Grand Wine & Food Affair’s Sip & Stroll at Imperial.

READER FEEDBACK

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April’s Autism and the

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The planning of this wonderful day is where things become a little more difficult. There are so many details to consider, and most brides are not sure where to begin. The best solution is to bring in a wedding consultant, a profes-sional with the ability to make a bride’s dreams a reality. These creative indi-viduals can make bridal wishes come true and relieve stress allowing brides to enjoy every moment of their big day. Fortunately, there is an extraordinary wedding consultant in Richmond whose job is to make bride’s wishes come true, seamlessly.

Making Memories, Beautifully

Lucas Chavez

COVER STORY

By Michelle JohnsonPhotos by Nesossi Studios

O ne of life's most important mile-stones is the celebration of a couple joining as one: the wedding day.

This special day brings friends and family together to witness a joyous occasion. Every bride wants the day to be perfect, one that will remain a cherished memory for many years to come. In our mind, we frame a picture of what this life-changing moment should be. Visions of everything from the dress to the reception have been memorized for future use.

With Wedding Coordinator Extraordinaire


A Variety of Services

Lucas Chavez, owner of LC Floral Designs in Richmond, has been success-fully planning and participating in high-profile events in Fort Bend County for many years, including the biggest day of a girl’s life. Wedding consultants, like Chavez, offer a variety of services for brides, grooms and their families. They can assist solely with the actual wedding day, the entire week of the wedding or provide consulting throughout the plan-ning process. “Flexibility is important when working with a bride and groom,” said Chavez. “An initial consultation helps my team and I determine what a bride wants and needs; however, a bride’s needs can change throughout the planning process. It’s critical to remain flexible and be able to provide assistance in all areas if we are needed.”

Chavez meets with brides, grooms and family members to determine exact-ly what they want, along with determin-ing their budget. He arranges details, recommends themes and colors, as well as helps select the perfect location for the big day. Chavez’s services include interviewing and hiring vendors, creat-ing schedules for the wedding day, plan-ning the rehearsal dinner, maintaining an account of expenses and monitoring the complete set-up of the ceremony and reception. This includes the seating, décor, cake, food, entertainment and rental equipment. All in all, Chavez and his team play a critical role in guiding a couple in managing and implementing all of the tasks required to host a suc-

cessful, stress-free wedding.But weddings aren’t the only events

that Chavez and his team are known for. “We strive to provide personalized services for our clients with unique and beautiful floral designs for all occasions from major events to their everyday flo-ral needs,” said Chavez. For the past 15 years, Chavez has made the fashion show for the Fort Bend County Fair beautiful with floral décor, and his regular clients appreciate that they can find exotic floral looks right here in Fort Bend.

Wedding CoordinatorExtraordinaire

“Creative” is the word used to de-scribe Chavez as a wedding consultant, florist and event planner. He is the “go-to” event planner and florist in the Rich-mond area, and as one of his long-time clients, Cindy Reaves, says, “Lucas can make anything beautiful!”

Chavez began his career studying Interior Design. “I was looking for a summer job and found work at a floral shop,” said Chavez. “I never went back to school; I just continued working from there. I went from the floral shop to em-ployment with a special events compa-ny, and after working with them a few years, I left and started my own shop. In the beginning, floral design was my main focus. Eventually, I incorporated my event consulting services into the business.”

With a focus on customer service, Chavez started LC Floral Designs in

Richmond. “At LC Floral Designs, it is important that we design to reflect our client’s thoughts. We strive to offer pre-mium quality and the best customer service possible. Our reputation is built on our customers. We are dedicated to serving our clients with respect, qual-ity of product and eye to detail that will accomplish the personal message they wish to convey.”

Chavez’s wedding consultant servic-es are in keeping with this precise atten-tion to detail. All consultations require a scheduled appointment where during the initial meeting, the level of service and budget will be discussed. Depending on the bride’s requirements, Chavez’s attention to detail brings the bride’s vi-sion to life.

With long-standing, professional re-lationships with local vendors and ven-ues, Chavez’s clients can be assured of two things: value and commitment. “We have professional relationships both in Fort Bend and in Houston with many venues and vendors,” said Chavez. “Our clients can be assured that any services we arrange will be of the highest caliber.”

Mary Ramirez, Lucas Chavez and Elizabeth Diaz of LC Floral Designs.

A signaturebridal bouquet by LC Floral Designs.

www.absolutelybrazos.com l JUNE 2014 9

According to wedding consultant Lucas Chavez, follow these tips to help create a beauti-ful and stress-free wedding day.

1. Set a wedding budget, and make sure all contributing parties are involved.

2. Do your homework prior to setting the wed-ding date to avoid conflicts with holidays,

events, etc., such as Valentine's Day when prices for flowers excel in price or a street celebration like Mardi Gras, which may delay arrival to your ceremony site.

3. Once the wedding date is set, move fast to find a ceremony site and reception

venue. Schedule and confirm immediately be-cause venues can book very quickly, especially on popular wedding dates.

4. Be smart and look for "last season's looks.” This can save you money, and

you will still look gorgeous.

5. Use vendor or wedding profes-sionals who you personally have

experience with or who friends recom-mend. Get to know them and their work, check their reviews and ask

lots of questions. The effort is re-warded when you are paired with

the right vendor to make your dream wedding come true.

Chavez compares his role as a wedding coordinator to that of a movie di-rector. “The couple goes home with a video of their day, but it is my job to coordinate every detail and insure that every person plays their part so that the story flows and a memory created that the family will cherish forever.”

Bridal TrendsAs with any industry, trends are

huge in the bridal business, especially with colors and themes. “The Great Gatsby/Roaring Twenties themes are huge this year,” said Chavez. “The color for this year is Radiant Orchid, which is a purple with pink undertones that exhibits creativity and originality. It can be used as an accessory color and goes well with neutrals, as well as bold colors.” Chavez recommends that brides can use the color for nail polish, brides-maid’s dresses, flowers, tabletop acces-sories, cake adornments, linens – virtu-ally wherever they would like a pop of color. “Radiant Orchid is a great color for brides. Golds and blues still remain strong for brides as well, and in men's wedding attire, Charcoal Grey is the new black.”

In describing 2014 themes, “Over-the-top glitz and glamour are the trends for 2014. The elegance of the Roaring Twen-ties has made a great impact on the fash-ion and themes for this year. Feathers, bling, rhinestones, pearls, sequins, gold, art deco, sparkling tabletops and lush displays are trending. Everything is big and bold, like the style of the 20s.”

According to Chavez, 2013 was a year trending with rustic theme for weddings featuring wood, outdoor type themes with lanterns, mason jars and other ac-cessories. But for 2014, bling is in.

An over-the-top theme was featured in one of the most unique weddings Chavez has seen this season. “This wed-ding was very different. Guests did not see a wedding cake at the reception. Everyone thought that the cake would be brought out onto the floor when the couple was ready, but to our surprise, the cake was lowered from the ceiling in the center of a chandelier surrounded by champagne flutes. It was brought down to the level of the bride and groom, and all of the guests were invited to come and

take a flute of champagne. Then, the cake was cut and served. After this, the chandelier holding the cake was raised leaving the space available for dancing.”

Chavez has not had the opportunity to include this type of dramatic cake en-try into a wedding, but he would love to given the chance. “It was very creative and unexpected. I love these unique situations. Everything I do is over-the-top. I can do traditional type themes and flowers, but I love cre-ating the unexpected, memorable things that people talk about.”

In April of 2013, Chavez served as wedding consultant to Erin Knight and Jared Wessel for their event featuring 350 guests. “We designed the flower arrange-ments for the ceremony with the focal point being the alter. I handled the wedding day events, which concluded with a beautiful reception at Safari Texas Ranch. The mother of the bride wanted a total trans-formation of the reception site, and we accomplished this with draped walls of ivory chiffon, purple up-lighting, beautiful table linens and flowers. Col-umns, lounge chairs and ta-bles in French motif style were brought in to complement the décor. Large flower centerpiec-es adorned the tables. For this event, I coordinated through-out the year with different ven-dors to make this celebration a success.”

A One Stop Shopfor Floral NeedsLC Floral Designs features cus-

tom floral arrangements, gift bas-kets, gourmet and fruit baskets and consultations for all types of events from a dinner for two to a wedding with more than 300 guests. They ser-vice both Fort Bend and Houston, and orders can be placed via telephone or online by calling 281-342-8839 or visit-ing www.lcfloraldesigns.com.

Located at 204 East Highway 90A in Richmond, the shop is open from 9 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday and from 9 am to 2 pm on Saturday.

Top 5 Tips forPlanning a Wedding

Chavez transformed the site of the Knight-Wessel wedding reception using draped walls of ivory chiffon, purple up-

lighting and French motif style pieces.



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A lmost 725 people filled the banquet room at Safari Texas on April 9th at the Annual Investment in Youth Luncheon, where not a dry eye was in sight. When The

Excellence in Community Service Award Recipient, Makayla Mueller, of Dulles High School, read her winning essay, you could have heard a fork drop.

“There was a room full of support for these students, and they could feel it,” said Dee Koch, Youth In Philanthropy (YIP) Coordinating Committee Member and Grant Officer of The George Foundation.

Youth In Philanthropy collected over $90,000 in scholar-ship money this year and announced the recipients at the luncheon. The students receiving the scholarships were from Calvary Episcopal College Prep, Fort Bend ISD, Lamar Con-solidated ISD, Needville ISD and Stafford Municipal School District. This is up from last year’s scholarship fund of $46,000.

The YIP Program has been in existence for 17 years, and each year cultivates student leadership allowing students to

develop and test different skill sets while making a difference in their community. YIP is comprised of Fort Bend County junior and senior high school students. It provides them the opportunity to experience how volunteerism and philanthropy coexist to serve their community. The selected students are part of a journey to strengthen their connections with their community and each other. The YIP Team participates in site visits and volunteer projects with area nonprofit organizations to increase their knowledge of the Fort Bend County nonprofit sector. The YIP students also meet and hear from some of Fort Bend County’s most inspiring leaders from business, the non-profit sector and the community-at-large.

“At the conclusion of the school year, with their new knowl-edge and understanding of the community and the many or-ganizations providing services to its residents, the YIP Team evaluates local charities and puts philanthropy into action by awarding monetary grants to participating nonprofits,” said Koch.

The students met one Saturday each month from 9 am to 3 pm for six consecutive months, including an orientation and an evaluation meeting.

In her speech, Koch thanked the nonprofit organizations, the district liaisons, community volunteers and all of the sup-porters who assisted in YIP’s success. She also recognized the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce CEO Keri Schmidt for her forward thinking leadership role and thanked her team for the organization of all the sessions.

“We are very proud to partner with the George Foundation in presenting the YIP Program. Working with the YIP stu-dents, we are able to shape the future of philanthropy in Fort Bend County,” said Schmidt.

This past year, there were 391 applications for YIP of which 165 students were selected from 20 high school campuses in Fort Bend. Together, the students provided a total of 7,680 vol-

By Zeenat Kassam MithaPhotos by Mary Favre, Liz Furman and Brenda Perry.

YIP YIPYIP YIPHooray!Hooray!

YIP scholarship recipients and supporters atthe 2014 Annual Investment in Youth Luncheon.

Dr. Thomas Randle, Lamar Consolidated ISD; Keri Schmidt, Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce; Charles Dupre, Fort Bend ISD; Dee Koch, The George Foundation; Curtis Rhodes, Needville ISD and Dr. Malcolm Smith, Calvary Episcopal College Prep.


unteer hours. Each YIP Team member worked hand in hand alongside commu-nity volunteers completing volunteer projects submitted by Fort Bend’s non-profit sector.

It is a well-known fact that nonprof-its are the heart of YIP. The quality re-sources that the nonprofit sector offer is seen as one of the merits to Fort Bend county.

“The response from the community has been overwhelming for YIP,” stated Schmidt. “We are proud to say that 67 scholarships are being distributed to students this year.”

Congratulations to all of the stu-dents and supporters who were part of this heartfelt initiative in assisting the community-at-large. Investing in the lives of students today builds a better future for all of those who will be a part of tomorrow.

For more information on YIP or how to get involved or provide support, con-tact [email protected].

B ased on their volunteer efforts throughout the Youth In Philanthropy year and with their description of their volunteer experiences through an essay, college

scholarships were awarded to the following YIP students in 2014:

Excellence in Community Service$5,000 was awarded to:Makayla Mueller Distinguished Community Service$2,500 was awarded to 11 students: Jessica Amores, Shae Blazier, Juan Buena, Mily Fulgencio, Molly Huynh, Justin Martin, Carolyn Nguyen, Denalex Orakwue, Malik Rice, Brandy Schochler and Marco Serrano.

Sponsor-Titled or Named Scholarships$1,250 was awarded to 32 students:Dubem Agu, Houston Averiett, Paris Ballard, Joshua Brooks, Aldoluis Cantu, Galia Davis, KeAnna Hampton, Savannah Howard, Zaeena Mehreen Jan, Shelby Kasberger, Jacob Khan, Raven Krobot, Aleah Legaux, Melisa Lopez, Jovany Medina, McK-enna Mitchell, Clark Morgan, Isabel Muratalla, Kyra Del Olmo, Anjanae Owens, Patrick Pecson, Bryan Poole, Adriana Quick, Hannah Richey, Jeremy Sandil, Danielle Saucedo, Jennifer Torres, Andy Tran, Isaiah Villaloboz, Sabrina Volpato, Kiana Woods and Tim Young, Jr.

Community Service Scholarships$750 awarded to 23 students:Abigail Adaramola, Nicole Aquino, Malachi Connor, Mikhail D’Mello, Muhibat Edunjobi, Melissa Grimaldo, Steffi Kaithackal, Divya Kamnani, Alyssa Kuykend-all, Morayo Lawal, John LeMaire, Nnamdi Madu, Chan’Cellore Makanjuola, Ejeh (E. J.) Okorafor, Erica Onuh, Christian Osagiede, Emmanuel Osikpa, Melissa Phan, Alyssa Rodriguez, Dawn Sajan, Nelson Santibanes, Keyon Tolbert and Paul Varghese.

Youth In Philanthropy2014 Scholarship Recipients

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WEDDINGS | GALAS | CORPORATE MEETINGS | SPECIAL EVENTS

Your Premier Event Facility

If you or your children have recently married, and you would like to enter for a chance to be featured in our next Real Weddings, all you need is at least ten high-resolution photos of the ceremony and/or reception. It doesn’t matter where the wedding took place, as long as it was within the last 18 months, and you or your parent/s reside in Fort Bend. Complete the “Wedding Form” at www.absolutelyBrazos.com and email photos to [email protected]. To guarantee your wedding details make it into our next Real Weddings, place your engagement or wedding announcement in absolutely! Brazos. Photographers are also welcome to submit photos.

Weddings

Rob & Alexa FontanaAugust 31, 2013

Kyle & Michelle PapsoApril 5, 2013

Jared & Erin WesselApril 13, 2013

Julius & Amanda JunkerOctober 19, 2013

Real

Bride Amanda Ann Junker Photography by Images by Robert T.


Kyle & Michelle PapsoApril 5, 2013Photography by Christine Meeker – Sugar Land

Bride’s Full Name: Michelle AlexanderGroom’s Full Name: Kyle PapsoCeremony Site: Amber Springs, Stonebrook Hall – Montgomery, TXReception Site: Amber Springs, Stonebrook Hall – Montgomery, TXPhotography: Christine Meeker – Sugar LandVideography: Stelly WeddingsWedding Planner: The Bride and Her MotherOfficiant: Doug TigtigGown: Vera Wang – Diana from Casa de Novia HoustonVeil: Vera WangShoes: Stuart WeitzmanJewelry: Kendra ScottHair: Demetria JonesMakeup: Alexis AbeytaBridesmaid Dresses: Bill LevkoffFormalwear: Perry EllisInvitations: Bering’sFlowers: A Touch By God – Gabriela SardinasCatering: Café NatalieCake: Cakes by GinaMusic: Rock-It Entertainment – Corey KingFavors: Candy Bar and MatchesAccommodations: La Torretta Lake Resort and Spa at Lake ConroeHoneymoon: St. Lucia

Details



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26633 SW Freeway, in Rosenberg 866.608.2703 fortbendkia.com 2014 Optima SXL, Model No. 55292. Tax, Title, License Fees and 1st payment due at signing. 12,000 miles per year, residual value is $19,602. See dealer for additional details. Picture for illustration purposes only.

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Jared & Erin WesselApril 13, 2013Photography by EE Photography

Bride’s Full Name: Erin Lee KnightGroom’s Full Name: Jared Ryan WesselCeremony Site: First Colony Church of ChristReception Site: Safari TexasRehearsal Dinner Site: Constellation FieldPhotography: EE PhotographyVideography: Eric FridgeWedding Planner: Lucas ChavezOfficiant: Ronnie NormanGown: Maggie SotteroVeil: BlingShoes: Kate SpadeJewelry: Luxor JewelersHair: Downtown StudioMakeup: Downtown Studio and Nancy BrownBridesmaid Dresses: LazaroFormalwear: Men’s WearhouseInvitations: Pressing EventsFlowers: LC Floral DesignsCatering: Safari TexasCake: The Sweet Tooth & Who Made the CakeMusic: Ceremony – Harpist Sara Shute & Reception – DJ’s UnlimitedFavors: Candy Bars provided by Debbie WesselTransportation: Colony LimousineAccommodations: Sugar Land Marriott Town CenterHoneymoon: Bora Bora – French Polynesia

Details



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Rob & Alexa FontanaAugust 31, 2013 Photography by Christine Meeker Pictures

Bride’s Full Name: Alexa Mia CervantesGroom’s Full Name: Rob FontanaCeremony Site: St. Lawrence Catholic ChurchReception Site: Briscoe ManorRehearsal Dinner Site: Grotto RistorantePhotography: Christine Meeker PicturesVideography: Luxe FilmsWedding Planner: Mother of the BrideOfficiant: Father Drew WoodGown: Ventura BridalVeil: David’s BridalShoes: DSWJewelry: Kendra ScottHair: Blush and Co.Makeup: Blush and Co.Bridesmaid Dresses: Ventura BridalFormalwear: Men’s WearhouseInvitations: The Paper SourceFlowers: Fresh Blooms of HoustonCatering: Behind the BashCake: Who Made the CakeMusic: DJU ProductionsFavors: Ceramic Hearts From Magpies GiftsTransportation: Colony LimousineAccommodations: Sugar Land Marriott Town CenterHoneymoon: Grand Caymans

Details



People seeking cosmetic or reconstructive dental work should do research before making a decision in order to ensure proper care. As ADA recognized specialists, Prosthodontists are qualified to offer services in state-of-the-art procedures and techniques, such as: cosmetic

dentistry, dental implants, complete and partial dentures, replacing lost or loose teeth, jaw joint problems (TMJ), traumatic injuries, snoring and sleep disorders and oral cancer reconstruction.

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Julius & Amanda JunkerOctober 19, 2013Photography by Images by Robert T.

DetailsBride’s Full Name: Amanda Ann WebbGroom’s Full Name: Julius Eric JunkerWedding Site: Bourbon Orleans HotelReception Site: Bourbon Orleans HotelRehearsal Dinner Site: The Court of Two SistersPhotography: Images by Robert T.Videography: Dyle FilmsWedding Planner: The Bride and Her MotherOfficiant: Rev. Robert PatinGown: Allure CoutureShoes: CaparrosJewelry: Neiman MarcusHair: Flawless BrideMakeup: Flawless BrideBridesmaid Dresses: WtooFormalwear: Men’s WearhouseInvitations: Etsy - CW DesignsFlowers: Fat Cat FlowersCatering: Bourbon Orleans HotelCake: The Royal CakeryMusic: Decades Music and The Jaywalkers of Jazzman EntertainmentTransportation: Mid-City CarriagesAccommodations: Bourbon Orleans HotelHoneymoon: Montego Bay, Jamaica



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Rosenberg Police Chief Dallis Warren recently announced the promotion of Lieu-tenant Tracie Williams Dunn to Assistant Chief of Police. With the promotion, As-sistant Chief Dunn became the highest-ranking female officer in the history of the Rosenberg Police Department.

“Tracie will continue to be an integral part of our management team, bringing new perspectives to bear as we build upon our past successes and develop innovative strategies to meet future challenges,” said Chief Warren. “I am excited to work with her in her new role as Assistant Chief.”

Dunn is a certified Master Peace Of-ficer and will begin the Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas’ Leadership Command College at Sam Houston State University in November 2014. She holds a Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Texas at San Antonio and a Masters of Administration in Organiza-tional Development from the University of the Incarnate Word.

Dunn has over 20 years in criminal justice experience, including work for the Texas Department of Protective and Regu-latory Services and as a Court Manager for the 73rd Juvenile District Court. Her last 13 years of experience have been as a li-censed peace officer.

“I look forward to working in tandem with the Department and community to make the Rosenberg Police Department an exemplary public safety organization,” said Dunn. “Not only does this promotion fulfill a dream of mine, but it also reminds me of the importance of striving each day to be a selfless leader who exemplifies good char-acter, competence and courage.”

BUSINESSBRIEFS

Rosenberg Police Department Announces

Assistant Chief

Rosenberg Assistant Police Chief Tracie Williams Dunn.


Meredith Hopkins:Passion and Drive = Success

By Joan Frances

T oday’s youth have so many opportunities to experience life in many different ways.

Technology has advanced the learn-ing process with computer use taught before writing. Children of tomorrow are way ahead in learning about life and people than 10 years ago. One highly valuable skill that has been around for centuries and is still prac-ticed every day is reading. One senior who has been an avid reader all of her life is Foster High School senior Meredith Hopkins. She has calculat-ed that since age three, she has read about 20 books a year, a total of 500 books in 18 years of life. Such exten-sive reading has opened the doors of knowledge and amazing prospects for Meredith.

time in eighth grade and continued her theater growth at Foster High School. As Meredith developed her talent, she was cast in Lil’ Abner as a sophomore, South Pacific in her junior year and this year, Beauty and the Beast. She also was in the One Act Play, The Angelina Project.

One of Meredith’s most fulfilling times in high school was her partici-pation at local and state tournaments. Since junior year, Meredith has won 20 awards in Humorous Interpreta-tion. As a result of this experience, she feels a growth in confidence, to own it when she walks in a room. Meredith is looking forward to this summer when she competes at the National Forensic Leagues National Tournament in Over-land Park, Kansas, then to Nebraska, where she will join the competition with the Thespian Group at the Uni-versity of Nebraska-Lincoln.

For the past 10 summers, Meredith has attended Camp Cho-Yeh Christian Youth Summer Camp in Livingston and Christian Leadership Training on the Pecos River for two weeks. Mer-edith is also a full-time nanny. Her pa-

tience and attention to detail makes her an excellent caregiver and a valu-able employee. She is President of the Thespians and Captain of Interpreta-tion on the Debate Team. Meredith is an engaging leader; her talent is put to use every day assisting novice stu-dents with cuttings from plays, and she truly enjoys directing. With her knowledge, students look to her for detailed evaluations on blocking and characterization.

Foster High School is home to over 1,900 students. Academically, Meredith is rated in the top 15 per-cent taking all AP or Pre AP classes. Through these advanced classes, she has already earned 10 college credits. Meredith has accepted a full scholar-ship to Baylor University and will be studying Criminal Psychology. Then, she plans to further her education with a Masters in Criminology.

Meredith

HOT SHOTHigh School

Meredith is one senior who has continued to grow in mind and spirit through creativity and exploration of the possibilities life has to offer. Congratulations to Meredith on all of her accomplishments – both now and in the future. With her passion and drive, we know she is headed toward success!

Growing up in the Lamar Con-solidated ISD with her mom, Dawn, dog named Scrappy, two cats, Spotty and Duchess, and a Hedgehog named Sharpay, has been an exciting period of Meredith’s life. She began her so-cial life as a choir member and cheer-leader in elementary and middle school and later found her passion in theater. She performed for the first


IN THEHEARTB R A Z O S

OUT&ABOUT

Bill and Chris Dostal.

The Central Fort Bend Chamber held its Annual Golf Classic at Pecan Grove Country Club. Cloudy skies didn’t stop participants from enjoying the games, food, entertainment and prizes.

Shannan Stavinoha, Jeff Haley and Shanta Kuhl.

Vickie Autrey and Alicia Casias.

The Fort Bend Museum presented a Trunk Show for Austin Elementary second graders. During the fun-filled day, students learned how to brush cotton and churn butter by hand and were shown toys from pioneer times including a stick horse, a corn husk doll and a corn cob baby.

Hill Fiser thought brushing cotton was fun but hard work.

Mackenzie Heiman, Regan Scott and Aidan Nguyen took turns churning the crank to make butter, which was later sampled and declared “very yummy” on a cracker.

Bailey Byrd brushed cotton with a smile.

Priscilla Nguyen, Val Brito and Sophie Brammer took an interest in the pioneer toys.


Second grade students at Austin Elementary presented creative posters filled with fun facts, maps and art representing various U. S. states.

Fashioned in clothing true to Louisiana and Kentucky were Peyton Ihde and Aimee Neeper.

Madelyn Meyer with Pennsylvania, Presley Newport with Mississippi and Gary Kanyuh with Minnesota proudly presented their state posters.

Jacob Shelton and Will Wleczyk showcased Hawaii and Tennessee.

The Rosenberg Railroad Museum Gala Committee hosted a Volunteer Kick Off for their 2014 Gala at the Museum in Historic Downtown Rosenberg. Committee members got busy planning for the big day, which is scheduled for Saturday, October 18th at Safari Texas. Jeff and Ann Council.

Bill Rickert and Tim Kaminski climbed aboard in support of the event.

The mayors are on board! Rosenberg Mayor Emeritus Joe M. Gurecky with Rosenberg Mayor Vincent M. Morales, Jr.

Committee members Doris Gurecky and Lisa Rickert.

Committee members Linda Canon, Lupe A. Uresti, Rosie Lemos and Janie Warstler.


IN THEHEARTB R A Z O S

OUT&ABOUT

Imperial Arts and Gallery Sponsor Classic Chevrolet presented Urban, Ink: Pop Goes the Art at the Imperial Gallery featuring the art of Charles Weiss and Sebastian Tristan, as well as music by the Rosenberg Symphonic Band. Over 400 attendees enjoyed art, music, wine and good times.

Vincent M. Morales, Jr. and Sebastian Tristan with Tristan’s piece entitled Escape.

Karen and David Showalter.David and Brenda Bowman with Charles Weiss’ rendition of Larry’s.

Vincent and Regina Morales with Charles Weissand his painting of Mayor Morales: Super Mayor.

Bob Vogelsang and Bill Dostal.

Ray Aguilar and Robyn Miller set up the Chevy Spark displayed inside the Gallery.

Richmond’s All Seasons Cottage participated in The Country Village’s Shop Hop Day. Enjoying family time were Jennifer, Ethan, Cadence and Matthew Scholes.


Gateway America School students and parents embarked on the trip of a lifetime to Italy over Spring Break.

Touring The Colosseum in Rome were Kylia Pruzansky, Elizabeth Engelbrecht, Caroline Clark, Colleen Spencer, Ali Pruzansky, Danica Woodard, Alek Graham, George Spencer, Caroline and Bobby Miller, Pamela Canavan, Andrew Huebner, Thomas Molloy, Lenny Pruzansky, Jonathan and Stacy Laube, Kesleigh Dickerson, Cole Huebner, Christopher Hamon, Ryan Molloy, Melissa and Rob Hamon, Ginger Truan, Brendon Koski, Shawn Vicknair, Christopher Fiore, Cate Truan, Nathan Pruzansky, Irina Graham, Kelli Laube, Dylan and Holly Huebner, Heidi Vicknair and Kayla Woodard.

Austin Elementary held a performance of the musical Bugz featuring first graders outfitted in creepy, crawly and very cute costumes!

Fireflies Julian Peters, Amari Brito and Hayden Stoute.

Spiders Ryan Evett and J. D. Santana.

Meredith Cervantes, Addison Fuller, Layla McAdams, Melanie Garcia, Madison Trianna, Lillie Looney, Jordyn Talbert, Kinley Niles and Riley Rayome.

Dragonflies Brady Emler, Carson Pemberton and Randall Sosnowski.


absolute ly!AUTO REVIEW

By Steve Kursar

Until recently, German car-makers have all but ruled the mid-size performance sedan

market. But an American car brand is challenging the Europeans and beat-ing them at their own game. That brand name is Cadillac, the General Motors marquee most often associ-ated with the kind of large land yachts that your grandfather had in his ga-rage. The all new 2014 Cadillac CTS couldn’t be farther from that.

This is the third generation of the Cadillac CTS. The first one, introduced in 2002, was pretty forgettable, but the second generation, which came out in 2007, was a head turner. It was raw power and covered in sharp, angled sheet metal. It showed that Cadillac could manufacture a serious performance rear-wheel drive sedan.

It wasn’t a BMW-killer yet, but it was getting close. Now we have the 2014 model which should make the BMW 5-Series engineers nervous because it’s that good.

This all new CTS is a little wider, longer and lower than the second generation model, which makes it both sportier to drive and better on the road. The new exterior design has softer angles, and the grill is much bolder. The interior design is very new Cadillac with buttery soft leather cov-ering the seats and real wood accent-ing the touch points. The Cadillac CUE system, the heart of the infotainment technology, dispenses with traditional knobs by acting more like your smart phone. One swipe, and you’ll figure it out.

But the heart of the CTS is the pow-erplant, and the 2014 model offers three op-tions. The base model, for an MSRP of $45,100, has a 272 hp, 2.0 liter tur-bocharged four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed automatic trans-mission. This base mod-el will deliver 20 mpg in

the city and 30 mpg on the highway. It’s definitely a fun car to drive but to get a real thrill out of the CTS, opt for the CTS Luxury trim, which includes the 321 hp, 3.6-liter V6 engine and an eight-speed transmission bringing in fuel economy numbers of 19 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. Move up to the V-Sport option, and you get the 420 hp, 3.6 liter twin-turbo V6, which is an absolute blast to drive. The CTS is offered as both in rear wheel and all wheel drive configurations.

The new CTS is the new face of Cadillac: luxury, style and real perfor-mance. There’s no longer an excuse to only look overseas for a superb driv-ing car.

Follow Steve Kursur at KursarOn-Cars.blogspot.com.

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DAD’S OWNOUTDOOR GETAWAY

There’s nothing Dad would like more than hisown outdoor space! Make every event an outdoor event with family and friends. Call today for afree design consultation. Texas Custom Patios. Call 281-265-1994; www.TexasCustomPatios.com.

THE KING OF THE CASTLE DESERVES 274 NEW HORSES

Give Dad the gift of performance, power and prestige with the all-new redesigned2014 KIA Optima SXL. Shop Fort Bend KIA’s incredible selection today. Fort Bend KIA,26633 Southwest Freeway in Rosenberg. Call 888-769-2233; www.fortbendkia.com.

HANDCRAFTEDLEATHER WALLET

This men's handcrafted leatherwallet is accented with a spent shotgun shell and features a great fold-over design. Its two sleevesare perfect for cards and cash.Southern Sister Designs,817 Third Street in Historic Downtown Rosenberg.Call 281-232-7737.

GOODBYE RAZOR,HELLO LASER!

In appreciation of Father’s Day, Timeless Plastic Surgery would like to offer all hairy fathers 50% off Laser Hair Removal for the month of June. Schedule your appointment today! Timeless Plastic Surgery,1327 Lake Pointe Parkway, Suite 300in Sugar Land. Call 281-242-TIME (8463);www.TimelessPlasticSurgery.com.

FORGET THE TIE!

This Father's Day, help your Dad transform hisskin with the #1 cleansing system worldwide.Now available in a masculine steel gray, theClarisonic is the perfect gift for that special manin your life. Sugar Land Plastic Surgery,16614 Creek Bend Drive in Sugar Land.Call 281-980-8000; www.mybodysurgeon.com.

AUTHENTIC ARGENTINIANCUISINE FOR DAD

Enjoy the authentic Argentinianexperience at Tierra del Fuego Tx.Receive one free chef’s specialappetizer for Dad. Tierra del Fuego Tx,2110 Town Square Place inSugar Land Town Square.Call 832-999-4045;www.tierradelfuegotx.net.


DRIVING IN STYLE

It’s just what dads and grads alwayswanted: a new toy from Texas Direct Auto,the world’s largest independent dealership. With over 2,000 automobiles in stock,Texas Direct Auto is sure to have theperfect gift for Dad. Texas Direct Auto, 12053 Southwest Freewayin Stafford. Call 281-499-8200;www.TexasDirectAuto.com.

NIGHT VISION FOR AIRSOFT

Treat your guy to a one-of-a-kind indoor shooting experience using Photon Digital Night Vision Riflescope. Xtreme Airsoft provides the ultimate experience in Airsoft guns, gear and accessories. Xtreme Airsoft, 1110 E.Hwy 90A, Suite D in Richmond.Call 281-909-0700; www.xtremeairsoft.com.

FREEZE YOUR FAT AWAYWITH COOLSCULPTING

Give Dad this clinically proven, FDAcleared, totally non-surgical treatment. All fathers receive 30% off CoolSculpting treatments throughout the month of June.Call for your free consultation!Sugar Land Face and Body Plastic Surgery, 16926 Southwest Freeway in Sugar Land.Call 281-313-0555;www.BeautyBecomesYou.com.


RosenbeRg CaRpet & FlooRingcenter Since 1958

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What’s on your floor matters. Wood Floor RefinishingWood & Laminate Flooring

Ceramic Tile FlooringCounter Tops

Commercial & Residential1006 1st Street • Rosenberg, Texas

What’s on your floor matters!

• • • • • • • E V E N T S • • • • • • •

June 2nd – 30th Summer Reading Club for AdultsAdults of all ages are encouraged to participate by registering at any Fort Bend County library or at www.fortbend.lib.tx.us. Readers will have their own online page to record their books or hours. Weekly drawings will take place at each branch, and a grand prize drawing will take place on July 28th for participants who have successfully completed the program. Call 281-341-2677.

June 7th, 9 – 11 amSaturday with the Master GardenersJoin the Fort Bend County Master Gardeners in their four acres of demonstration gardens. Learn about gardening and plants well suited to Fort Bend County, and attend an informal garden talk on native plants in the Native Garden at 10 am. Park in front of the Agricultural Center at 1402 Band Road in Rosenberg. Call 281-341-7068 or visit www.fbmg.com.

June 11th, 9 am – 3 pmCommit for Life Blood DriveThe Blood Center asks donors to commit for life by donating at least once per quarter so an adequate supply can be available at all times. Your donation can save up to three lives!The blood drive takes place the Travis Building Employee Parking Lot, located at 300 Jackson Street in Richmond. Register at www.CommitForLife.org using the sponsor code 3493FBCC.Call 281-238-3562 or e-mail [email protected].

June 14th, 11 am and 2 pmFather’s Day Frontier Survivor ClassGeorge Ranch Historical Park will celebrate dads with a special survival class at the 1830s Jones Stock Farm for hands-on activities that demonstrate how fathers provided for and protected their families on the Mexican frontier. Call 281-343-0218 or e-mail [email protected].

June 16th, 10:30 am – 6 pmThe Arc of Fort Bend County Golf ClassicThe annual Golf Classic at Weston Lakes Country Club, located at 32611 FM 359 in Fulshear, supports the non-profit organizationThe Arc of Fort Bend County. There are contests for all golfers including the Hole-in-One vehicle sponsored by Classic Chevrolet. Following the tournament, golfers and guests will enjoy a barbecue dinner and a live auction. Bid on the fantastic trips, sporting packages, outings and other unique items. Visit www.arcoffortbend.org.

281-342-21981405 Jackson Street

Richmond, Texas 77469

Mario’s Paint & Body Shop

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Jams, Jellies & SalsasHand-made in Rosenberg

Happy hour Wed-Fri 3-7pm

Boutique Wines & Craft Beer New Outside Patio

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Pre-K 1 Ages 3 & 4Pre-K 2 Ages 4 & 5CDA Certified Teacher

After-School programs onsite at Frost, Hutchison and

Hubenank Elementary.

Cosmetic & Family Dentistry

Digital denture, better fit & design

1301 FM 2218, Suite 500B Richmond, TX 77469

281-239-3900 www.smilesmart.com

Before After

Accepts Most INSURANCE Walk-ins Welcome

We See Kids Too!

SNORING & Oral Sleep Appliances Available

Joe Valadez, RPH

1221 1st Street • Rosenberg, Tx 77471 Business 281-762-1231 Fax 281-762-1232

joespharmacyhouston.com [email protected]

4819 FM 359, Richmond, 77406P 282-342-2611F 832-553-7840

[email protected]

An independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc.

YOUR SUCCESS is My Goal!

Diana CritelliRealtor

Enter As Strangers.. . Leave As Friends!Antiques H Collectibles H Fine Gifts, Etc.

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Hours: Tue – Sat 10 am-5 pm

Once Again brings together dealers, collectors & artisans to provide an all

around shopping experience.

Historic Downtown Rosenberg801 3rd Street Rosenberg

www.shoponceagain.com 281-232-3955

I I I8 East HWY 90ARichmond, Texas [email protected] Hours M-F 9am - 5pm

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Rose Rich Largest Party Store with Everything You Need for Your Next Party or Event

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A LITTLE PIECEOF HISTORYBy Joan Frances

Richmond Heritage:The Darst-Yoder Home

The Darst-Yoder home is a 14-room classical revival

structure built in 1908.

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L ook around. History is every-where. Nature displays its age through ominous trees, moss

hanging to the ground. Rivers expose years of wear through polished rocks marking the edge of the water. Rolling hills reveal jagged peaks aged with dis-coloration. Early settlers came on foot, horse and covered wagon to establish roots in the new world. Some came to farm, others to ranch with the intention of building a foundation for a family. Homes were constructed to last a life-time, detailed and meticulous. It was not uncommon for a designer to work for years on a structure that was secure inside and out using the strongest wood available. One hundred years of weath-er and time conceals the hidden beauty of these dilapidated homes until they are renovated. One fascinating story of the original owners and the path to revitalization is the Darst-Yoder home.

The Darst family, known as one of the oldest families in the state, began settling in the area as early as 1827 and were members of Stephen F. Aus-tin’s Colony. Abraham Darst married Tabitha Callaway, the granddaughter of Daniel Boone. They lived in Missouri and had five children. When Tabitha died, Abraham married Jemima

Brownfield, moved with children from both marriages to Texas and settled on the Brazos River.

Emory Holman Darst, the third son of Tabitha and Abraham, fought at the Battle of Velasco on June 26, 1832 and at the final battle at San Jacinto in 1836. He was issued 320 acres of land for serving in the army. Emory married Mary Ann Moore in 1841, and they had nine children. Robert Hodges Darst was the youngest son, born June 7, 1859. As a boy, he attended a private school in Fort Bend County and the University at Georgetown until his fathers’ death in 1880. Robert returned to Richmond to help manage his father’s estate. In 1886, he married Katie Brush, and they had three children. During this time, Robert established a reputation as one of the most successful farmers and ranchers in the Richmond area. He was immersed in the community as a director of the Richmond Cotton, De-velopment and Electric Light and Wa-ter Company, as well as the Rosenberg Gin Company. On September 2, 1894, Katie passed away. He married Pearl R. Ransom, purchased land from T.E. Pearson and built a 14 room cypress and pine mansion for his family, which still stands today.

On the corner of Ninth and Jackson Street in Richmond, this classic colonial Greek revival style home built in 1908 has 11 foot ceilings and four fireplaces. The 18 x 30 foot formal walk-in foyer and original brass chandelier invites visitors to view the fine details metic-ulously preserved through the years. When the home was built, Mrs. Darst asked for the bedrooms to have closets, unusual for the time, but a convenient asset to the house. In the early 1920s, new school teachers used the home as a dormitory. Interior walls were built but later removed to be consistent to the original floor plan. Robert and Pearl Darst built a brick wall behind the stove in the kitchen as protection against fires. Beveled and stained glass is prevalent throughout the home with an open, clear view of the outside patio, yard and street.

Mrs. Darst lived in this mansion un-til she passed away at age 94. In 1971, the home was purchased by Mr. and Mrs. Yoder who continued to maintain its authentic style and décor. Today, it stands in regal perfection thanks to the attention to detail by the newest own-ers, Faye and Paul Johnston. History is preserved in many facets of our world; awareness allows us to enjoy it.

INSIDE BACK

INSIDE BACK

BACK

BACK

Our network of affiliated physicians and experienced staff allow us to deliver better outcomes and the highest standards of care.

Now more than ever, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital stands out as one of the best hospitals in the country.

Our clinical excellence, quality, patient safety and operational performance have all been recognized nationally, and

our reputation spans decades in the Greater Houston area. So if you or a loved one needs medical care, rely on the

nationally recognized hospital with deep roots in Sugar Land: Memorial Hermann.

Learn what our recognition means for you. Visit memorialhermann.org

LEADERSIN QUALITY

june 2014 - absolutely brazos magazine

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