june 2016 - absolutely brazos magazine

JUNE 2016 Serving Richmond, Rosenberg, Fulshear

& Needville

Fort Bend'sCULTURALHERITAGE

Lone StarSTOMP

Great Gifts for DADS & GRADS

Taylor Wleczyk

BlushingBridesBlushingBrides

INSIDE FRONT

You’ve spent months balancing your chakras and your diet.

It’s time to be a VIP.

Family Birthing Center

Here, you’ll get the Very Important Pregnancy treatment.

Sign up to be a VIP and schedule a tour at VeryImportantPregnancy.org/SugarLand

At the new Family Birthing Center at CHI St. Luke’s Health–Sugar Land Hospital, we believe everyone deserves to get exceptional care in an atmosphere that feels more home than hospital.

R Couplet Care

R Nurse Navigator

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Eric Humble, M.D.Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Voted Top Doc 3 years in a rowBeautyBecomesYou.comLike us on

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J U N E 2 0 1 6 | V O L U M E 4 | N U M B E R 7

F E AT U R E S

30 DADS & GRADSThings We Love – Just for Dads & Grads!

CONTRIBUTORS

C O V E R F E A T U R E

9 BLUSHING BRIDES Real Weddings of Brazos

These five blushing brides – and their beaus – have ties to the Brazos area. Peruse the pages, view their wedding details and even get some ideas for your big day!

Aaron & Moriah Hlavaty.Photo by Fulleylove Photography.

20

Joan FrancesContributorPages 20 & 32

ON THE COVER:Taylor Wleczyk.

Photography by Impressions By Leslie.

C O L U M N S

20 HIGH SCHOOL HOT SHOTMeet Amanda Vignes

32 A LITTLE PIECE OF HISTORYFort Bend County: A Fusion of Culture and Traditions

N E W S W O R T H Y

24 OAKBEND MEDICAL CENTERAnnounces 2016 Patchwork of Life: Mending Lives Stitch by Stitch

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

6 EXCLAMATION POINTS!

21 COMMUNITY EVENTS

22 SEEN ON THE SCENE

26 OUT & ABOUT IN THE HEART OF BRAZOS

31 COMMUNITY MARKETPLACE

Primary Care. Where you go makes a differenCe.

Easily schedule online at houstonmethodist.org/pcg or call 713.394.6638.

Houston Methodist Primary Care Group is dedicated to providing high quality and compassionate care to the Fort Bend community. These physicians have extensive training and experience in diagnosing and treating patients with a caring, hands-on, family-oriented approach.

Our practices offer:• Online scheduling• Patient portal for secure

communication with your care team

• Same day appointments• Convenient locations

SCHEDULE TODAY!

Kerry Laursen, MD Family Medicine

Adelola Ashaye, MDFamily Medicine

Jessen Rajan, MDFamily Medicine

Malayalam & Spanish

8330 Hwy. 6, Suite 110 Missouri City, TX 77459

Adrianne Scruggs, MDInternal Medicine

4660 Sweetwater Blvd. Suite 210


Deepshikha Sharda, DOFamily Medicine

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Vandana Khera, MDInternal MedicineHindi & Punjabi

Now Located in Riverstone 18717 S. University Blvd., Suite 105



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

4655 TECHNIPLEX DR. STE. 700STAFFORD, TX 77477

281-690-4242WWW.ABSOLUTELYBRAZOS.COM

Vol. 4 No. 7June 2016

absolutely! Brazos Magazine is published by absolutely! focus media, 4655 Techniplex Dr., Ste. 700, Stafford, TX 77477. Copyright © 2016 by absolutely! focus media. All rights reserved. Reproduc-tion without permission is strictly prohibited. absolutely! Brazos Magazine does not knowingly accept false or misleading adver-tising or editorial, nor do the publishers assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. absolutely! Brazos Magazine welcomes editorial submissions from its readers.

Subscription requests are free to West Fort Bendarea addresses. Annual paid subscription of $25

required outside West Fort Bend area.

P U B L I S H E R Patti Parish-Kaminski

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

S E N I O R AC C O U N T E X E C U T I V E Jessica Kij

AC C O U N T E X E C U T I V E S Jennifer Elliott

Molly Ellis Kay Garrett

Andrea Rigamonti Suzanne Stiles

A RT D I R E C T O R Grace Belleza

G R A P H I C D E S I G N E RMarinela Taylor

W E B D E S I G N E R Joey Belleza

C O N T R I BU T O RJoan Frances

O F F I C E A D M I N I S T R AT O R Alexa Goldstein

I N Q U I R I E S 281-690-4242

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

Publishedby

Publisher, PATTI PARISH-KAMINSKI

Summertime: Making Memories

READER FEEDBACK

Nice article about Oakbend’s Acute Care of the Elderly (ACE) Unit in the April issue of absolutely! Brazos.

Owen Capocyan

Thank you Dr. Capocyan. We loved working with you and OakBend!

Tim and Patti Kaminski at the Lone Star Stomp benefiting the Fort Bend County Museum Association.

Just as June marks the beginning of summer, it also marks a tradition of blissful memories at abso-lutely! Brazos: our summer wedding issue. I love this issue where we feature the beautiful brides and wed-dings in our community. Over the years, I’ve heard so many words of wisdom passed down from generations regarding what makes a successful marriage. One of my favorites isn’t necessarily about sustaining a good marriage; it’s about the attitude going in. Winston Churchill said, “My most brilliant achievement was my ability to be able to persuade my wife to marry me.” The Churchill’s were married for more than 56

years with Winston preceding his beloved Clementine, mother of their five children, in death. Personally, I think appreciating what you have goes a long way!

Appreciating Dad is what June is all about! As we celebrate dads this month, take a peek at our Dads & Grads Gift Guide on page 30. You’re sure to find something special to show Dad how much he’s appreciated all year long.

To all of our Brazos Dads, we absolutely wish you a wonderful Father’s Day. Relax, take the day off and make some memories. You’ll be glad you did!

Absolutely! yours,

[email protected]

absolutely! focus media was honored to receive special recognition for their contribution to the Fort Bend Family YMCA at the organization’s 2016 Annual Campaign event. The Fort Bend Family YMCA was the beneficiary of the 2015 GEMS of Fort Bend event.

www.absolutelybrazos.com l JUNE 2016 7

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Restore your smile with cosmetic dentistry!

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Achieve the Smile!UltimateUltimatePeople 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.

Crowns, Implants, CosmetIC, reConstruCtIve DentIstry BoarD CertIfIeD prosthoDontIst

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Compassionate, Comprehensive Care for Women

Brian R. Heaps, MDBoard Certified Ob/Gyn

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• Adult & Adolescent Gynecology• Minimally Invasive Surgery/Robotic Surgery• Reproductive and Pelvic Health Issues

Women’s Center

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Wedding Couple: Ryan & Gina CallardPhoto by Lindsay Elizabeth Photography

Ryan & Gina CallardMay 2, 2015

Jerry & Beverly VillarrealOctober 3, 2015

Bradford & Danielle HarrisonAugust 28, 2015

Aaron & Moriah HlavatyJuly 25, 2015

If you or your children have married within the last year and reside in the Brazos area, and you would like to enter for a chance to be featured in our next Here Comes The Bride, complete the “Wedding Form” at www.absolutelyBrazos.com and e-mail at least 10 high-resolution photos of the ceremony and/or reception to [email protected]. To guarantee your wedding details make it into our next Here Comes The Bride, place your engagement or wedding announcement in absolutely! Brazos. Photographers are also welcome to submit photos.

Nick & Taylor WleczykNovember 14, 2015


Bride’s Full Name: Gina Marie RaimondoGroom’s Full Name: Ryan Jon CallardWedding Site: St. John’s Methodist ChurchReception Site: The Swinging DoorRehearsal Dinner Site: Cafe AdobeVideography: Pocket Square FilmsWedding Planner: The BrideOfficiant: Ben TrammellGown: Tara KeelyVeil: Handmade by Mother of BrideShoes: Ivory Heels with Pearls, Crystals and RhinestonesJewelry: Nadri Pearl and Zirconia - Dillard’s Hair: Makeup TexasMakeup: Makeup TexasBridesmaid Dresses: David’s BridalFormalwear: Men’s WearhouseInvitations: Designed by Brother of the Bride Andrew Raimondo Flowers: Ivory Roses and White Hydrangeas - Kroger FloralCatering: The Swinging DoorCake: Three-Tiered White Cake - Kroger BakeryMusic: MixDoctors DJFavors: Can Koozies Designed by Brother of the BrideAccommodations: Hampton Inn RichmondHoneymoon: Sandals Whitehouse - Jamaica

Ryan & Gina CallardMay 2, 2015Photos by Lindsay Elizabeth Photography

Details



Safari Texas Ranch281.277.7888

11627 FM 1464, Richmond, Texas 77407www.safaritexasballroom.com | e-mail: [email protected]

WEDDINGS | GALAS | CORPORATE MEETINGS | SPECIAL EVENTS

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Bride’s Full Name: Moriah Ann ButlerGroom’s Full Name: Aaron Blake HlavatyWedding Site: Bethel Church of HoustonReception Site: Minute Maid Park, Union StationRehearsal Dinner Site: Pappasito’s CantinaOfficiant: Nathan HansenGown: Weddings By DebbieVeil: Weddings By DebbieShoes: Pink Paradox LondonJewelry: Charming Charlie and Pearl Necklace from MotherHair: Vance LeeMakeup: Shades SalonBridesmaid Dresses: Weddings By DebbieFormalwear: Calvin Klein Invitations: GatheringsFlowers: A Particular EventCatering: AramarkCake: Edible Designs by JessieMusic: Jonny Black ProductionsFavors: Cracker JacksTransportation: The Original Trolley & Limousine CompanyAccommodations: The Westin Houston DowntownHoneymoon: Sandals Ochi - Jamaica

Aaron & Moriah HlavatyJuly 25, 2015Photos by Fulleylove Photography

Details



A Special Placefor Special People

Oral Health Education • Sealants • Intravenous SedationHigh Speed Digital X-Rays • Ora Verse Anesthesia Reversal

Laser Soft Tissue Removal • Accepting New Patients

Specializing in Dentistryfor Children and those

with Special Needs

Larry Caldwell, D. D. S.A N D A S S O C I A T E S

Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry15200 SW Freeway • Sugar Land, TX 77478

281.565.KIDS (5437)www.larrycaldwelldds.com

Check us out on Facebook!

Bride’s Full Name: Danielle Nicole GarciaGroom’s Full Name: Bradford Davis HarrisonWedding Site: Camp Lucy - Ian’s ChapelReception Site: Camp LucyRehearsal Dinner Site: Chuy’sVideography: George Street BridalWedding Planner: Kim HuntOfficiant: Katrina BaechetGown: Essence of AustraliaVeil: Houston Bridal GalleryShoes: GuessHair: April Monroe and AssociatesMakeup: April MonroeFormalwear: Men’s WearhouseInvitations: MintedFlowers: Camp LucyCatering: Best Wurst, Camp LucyCake: Sweet Treets BakeryMusic: Infinity Sound LabHoneymoon: Excellence Playa Mujeres - Mexico

Bradford & Danielle HarrisonAugust 28, 2015Photos by George Street Bridal

Details



CAMPBELL GARRETTD I S T I N C T I V E H O M E S

Your Land. Our Expertise.

207 Morton Street • Richmond, TX • Call: 832-865-3444 • www.CampbellGarrett.com

Plan design service, builder showroom & precision craftmanship...

Campbell Garrett Distinctive Homes

makes it easy for you to build the perfect place to call home.

Building throughoutFort Bend County,

Houston and beyond!

houstonmethodist.org/sugarland

Disorders and diseases of the brain and spine require specialized expertise and a multi-disciplinary approach to diagnosis and treatment.

At Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Neuroscience & Spine Center, our board-certified physicians work together to provide comprehensive, personalized care, designed to help patients return to a productive lifestyle.

We offer expedited appointments, including second opinions, with our highly regarded specialists.

TO BEGIN YOUR PERSONAL TREATMENT PLANCALL: 281.274.7979 • EMAIL: [email protected]

A COLLABORATIVE, INNOVATIVE APPROACH TO NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS AND SPINE CARE.

Our team of neurosurgeons, neurologists, orthopedic spine surgeons andinterventional pain specialists treat a wide variety of disorders including:

• Alzheimer’s and Memory Disorders• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)• Back and Neck Pain• Brain and Spinal Tumors• Epilepsy and Seizures• Migraines and Headaches• Multiple Sclerosis (MS)• Muscle and Nerve Injuries

• Muscular Atrophy• Myasthenia Gravis• Neuromuscular Disorders• Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders• Peripheral Neuropathy• Sleep Disorders• Stroke

Please note, email is not a secure means to communicate personal identification,i.e. social security number, date of birth, financial information, etc.

Bride’s Full Name: Beverly TorresGroom’s Full Name: Jerry VillarrealWedding Site: Holy Rosary Catholic ChurchReception Site: East Bernard Riverside HallWedding Planner: Beverly TorresOfficiant: Father Bill BartniskiGown: Organza Ruffle Skirt Ball Dress by Oleg CassiniVeil: David’s BridalShoes: De Blossum CollectionJewelry: Hairlooms of Mother and GrandmotherHair: Alyss MataMakeup: Alyss MataBridesmaid Dresses: Casa VictoriaFormalwear: Men’s WearhouseInvitations: Sandra VasquesFlowers: Lucy’s Florist & TuxedoCatering: Ben’s ChuckwagonCake: Lucy’s Florist & TuxedoMusic: DJ AllstarsFavors: Red Rose Petals, Red and White CrystalsTransportation: 2014 Dodge ChargerHoneymoon: Corpus Christi, San Juan and San Antonio, Texas

Jerry & Beverly VillarrealOctober 3, 2015Photos by Sandra Vasques

Details



8030 FM 359 South, Fulshear, TX 77441Phone: 281-536-4900

www.frecklescentral.com

Fathers = Boundless LoveCards, Gifts and More...

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Comprehensivepediatricdentalcareforinfants,childrenandteens

Thehigheststandardofexcellenceinbothcleanlinessanddentalservices

1601 Main St. #307Richmond, TX 77469Located next to OakBend Medical Center on Hwy. 90

Most PPO Insurances AcceptedLaughing Gas, Oral Sedation, IV Sedation,

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Got Tickets?

facebook.com/AbsolutelyBrazos CommunityMagazine

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Win ticket giveaways to area attractions and events!

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Bride’s Full Name: Taylor TondreGroom’s Full Name: Nick WleczykWedding Site: Holy Rosary Catholic ChurchReception Site: Needville KC HallRehearsal Dinner Site: Ol’ Railroad CafeVideography: Rhyne AcuffOfficiant: Father Jamie AbercrombieGown: Impression BridalShoes: DSWHair: Visible ChangesBridesmaid Dresses: Alfred AngeloFormalwear: Men’s WearhouseInvitations: David’s BridalFlowers: Flowers By AdelaCatering: Schulze’s Bar-B-QueCake: Bessie’s Bakery - Kathy WarneckeMusic: Jeannie BryantDecorations and Rentals: Elegant OccasionsAccommodations: SpringHill SuitesHoneymoon: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Nick & Taylor WleczykNovember 14, 2015Photos by Impressions By Leslie

Details



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

Wharton: 979-282-6151 • 10141 US 59 • Wharton, Texas, 77488

Now Accepting New Patients At Both LocationsIn Sugar Land And Wharton

Salman Aly, MDPRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN

Sarfraz Aly, MDINFECTIOUS DISEASE

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For appointments call:

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• Board Certified in Internal Medicine

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832-363-12274716 FM 359 Richmond, TX www.fcvethospital.com

providing loving expert careState-of-the-Art Medical & Surgical Equipment Highly Skilled & Caring ProfessionalsEarly Disease Detection Program

to keep your pet healthy & happyComplete Wellness CareDentistry & SurgeryDiagnostic & Medical CareEarly Morning Drop-offs

Hours: Mon. and Fri. 7am - 8pmTues. - Thurs. 7am - 6pm Sat. 8am - 1pm

Dr. Michael Moore Dr. Mark Buvinghausen Dr. Megan Dunn

Meet Amanda Vignes

HOT SHOTHigh School

“Human connection is one of the things that mean the most to me, sobeing a leader at Mustang Playhouse and the thespians is absolutely priceless.”

– Amanda Vignes

L amar Consolidated Inde-pendent School District sets the bar high for students to

graduate with the highest standard of education. With highly qualified teachers, Lamar Consolidated High School takes pride in assuring stu-dents learn from a well-rounded curriculum. One senior who has achieved an impressive resume is Amanda Vignes.

Amanda has taken Advanced Placement (AP) classes all of her high school career. Her forte is theater, and she has devoted her four years of high school to perfecting the craft. As an actress, Amanda has participated in play production and set design at school. She was engaged in the Uni-versity Interscholastic League (UIL) One Act Play and was awarded Best Actress at the district competition last year, as well as Best Actress for her performance at Mustang Play-house. She was also given Honorable Mention All Star Cast at the One Act Play competition and was a national qualifier at the International Thespi-an Society competition last summer. Amanda was vice president of the thespians and a High School Leader-ship participant.

When asked what being a leader means to her, Amanda said, “To me, it means being able to make a dif-ference in my fellow artists’ lives, and that is priceless. To take part in another person’s artistic process is incredibly humbling. When you are engaged in a process like that, you become part of that person. As I have watched underclassmen grow over the past two years, they

have claimed a special place in my heart. They’ve become some of my best friends, and they trust me and come to me for advice both on stage and off. The fact that they trust me enough to make me a part of their lives both profession-ally and personally means the world to me. Human connection is one of the things that mean the most to me, so be-ing a leader at Mustang Playhouse and the thespians is absolutely priceless.”

One value that Amanda lives by is humility. “Growing up, my parents always taught me to appreciate every-thing that has been given to me, so as I have gone on this rollercoaster called high school, I have always kept that in mind. I am blessed to have amazing people by my side who have guided me through this journey, and I hope to al-ways have people like them in my life. They have been absolutely amazing to me, and I never want to take that for granted.

“I have had two major influences in my life, Mr. Thomas Oliver and Ms. Julie McCain. Both of these teachers believe in me and who I am as a student and person. Without them, I would not be the person I am today. I had Mr. Oliver, my So-cial Studies teacher, at the begin-ning of my high school career, and he shaped me into a student who wants to learn, who is tolerant and has a deeper understanding for people be-sides what they simply appear to be. Ms. McCain taught me during my ju-nior year in her English III AP class, and I learned how to be confident in who I am and in my academic ac-colades. These two are the dynamic duo. If you take one course, you have to take the other. They are two of my absolute favorite people, and I plan to stay in contact with them as long as possible.”

In the fall, Amanda will attend-ing Fairleigh Dickinson University in New Jersey. She will major in act-ing but also will work in design. Con-gratulations on your talent and in-sightful qualities Amanda, and good luck as you fulfill your dreams.

By Joan Frances

Amanda



June 3rd and 4th, 11 am – 1 pmTea Parties at the1883 Historic Moore HomeJoin the Fort Bend Museum’s annual tea parties at the historic 1883 home of Congressman John and Lottie Moore, located at 500 Houston Street in Richmond. Guests will receive lessons in the history of tea and proper tea etiquette, life in the Moore Home during the Edwardian Period, a tour of the historic house and more while sampling a delicious array of savories and sweets. The cost for this event is $15 for Museum members and $18 for non-members. Contact 281-342-6478 or e-mail [email protected].

EVENTS

June 6th, Noon Bookworm Book ClubJoin in the discussion of Joan Harris’s book Five Quarters of an Orange at the Albert George Library, located at 9230 Gene Street in Needville. Visit www.fortbend.lib.tx.us.

June 20th, 10:30 amThe Arc of Fort Bend Golf ClassicSupport The Arc of Fort Bend with their Golf Classic event at the Weston Lakes County Club, located at 32611 FM 1093 in Fulshear. Get a team together and enjoy a day of golfing while supporting an amazing organization. Visit www.acroffortbend.org/golf.classic.

June 24th, 7 – 9 pmMusic in the ParkBring the whole family to the Wessendorff Park Gazebo, located at 500 Preston Street in Richmond, for music by Sean Heyl! Bring your chairs, blankets and snacks to enjoy an evening of music. Visit www.richmondtx.gov.

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Seen on the Scene2016 Reading Between the WinesBenefiting the Literacy Council of Fort Bend CountyApril 1, 2016 • Safari Texas Ranch

1 Manish & Namita Asthana2 Kay & Barry Beard3 Lawren Eckhardt & Ray Aguilar4 Patti & Tim Kaminski5 Len Roslen, Mary Karr & Arlene Rolsen6 Jackie & Don Kerstetter7 Steve Metzenthin with Lillie & Chris Beaux8 Amy Mitchell & Gordon Berkstresser

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• Super Sports

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OakBend Medical CenterAnnounces 2016 Patchwork of Life:

Mending Lives Stitch by Stitch

NEWSWORTHY

The2016PatchworkofLifeeventissetforThursday,October 13th at Safari Texas Ranch. This year’s benefi-ciary is theEmergencyCareCenteratOakBend’sJack-sonStreetlocation.Thefundraisinggoalforthiseventis$300,000,butthecommitteeledbyMayTape,DDSandBethWolfhopestoraisemore.

ThefundsraisedwillbringthemostadvancedconceptsforahealingenvironmenttotheJacksonStreetEmergen-cyCareCenter.Almost20,000patientsaretreatedatthislocationeachyear.Ahospitalcanbeascary,stressfultime–particularlyduringanemergency.Studiesdemonstratethathospitalscanreducestressandimprovepatientout-comesbycreatingawarmersetting.Bycreatingthistypeofenvironment in theEmergencyCareCenter,OakBendcanbetterservethepeopleofFortBendCounty.

ThePollyRyonMemorialvolunteershavebeennamedasthehonoreesfortheOctoberevent.Eachday,thevol-unteers can be found working throughout the hospital,greeting patients, transporting patients and volunteeringinvariousdepartmentssuchaspharmacy,obstetrics,out-patientsurgeryandmuchmore.

PatHeberthasbeennamedasthehonorarychairforthe2016PatchworkofLifeevent.Lastyear,HebertwasnamedthehonoreefortheeventandwasthechairforthefirstandsecondPatchworkofLifefundraisers.

Visit www.oakbendmedcenter.org/patchwork-of-life tobecomea sponsor, donoror topurchase tickets for theevent.

Patchwork Committee members Alicen Swift, Libby King, Norma Petrosewicz, Becky Valadez, Joe Freudenberger, Rachelle Kanak, Beth Wolf, Linda Drummond, May Tape, Monica Mondrik, Noell Myska, Donna Jameson, Carolyn and James Steenbergen, Deidre Doggett and Jesse Regalado.

Seen on the SceneThe Lone Star StompBenefiting the Fort Bend CountyMuseum AssociationApril 16, 2016 • George Ranch Historical Park

1 Laurel Wendt & Mike Phillips2 Regina & Vincent Morales3 Jennie & Roger Adamson4 Heather Hernandez & Alisa Merritt5 Carol Kalinowski, Diane Cario & Larrell Wenzel6 Donna Kay Tucker & Billie Wendt7 Janice & Justin Klump8 Jim & Kay Garrett

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9 Claire Rogers & Jennifer Farrell 10 Mandi & Chris Bronsell11 Keith & Ammie Blahuta12 Suntera Scott & Walleen Williams13 Carl & Judy Cox14 Sylvia & John Zerwas15 Joe & Doris Gurecky with Janice & Bill Knight16 Wes & Teri Vela

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IN THEHEARTB R A Z O S

OUT&ABOUT


OUT&ABOUT

Friends of Child Advocates of Fort Bend hosted Mission & Martinis, an evening with martinis, camaraderie and light bites at the Sienna Plantation home of Fheryl and Grady Prestage. Attendees learned about the mission of Friends of Child Advocates of Fort Bend and enjoyed a spring fashion show.

Peggy Jackson, Alison Haralson and Linda Day.

Anne Bulan and Linda Page.

Mary Favre, Mary Worley and Lisa Moore.

Fheryl and Grady Prestage.

Carol McDonough, Gail Pawlowski and Jessica Kij.

Dorine Craig and Zeenat Mitha.

The Gingerbread Kids’ Academy helped sponsor the Rosenberg Police Explorers Post 2120’s trip to Austin for the Explorer competition. The Explorers group is comprised of youth ages 14 to 20 who wish to “explore” a career in law enforcement and gain leadership skills and community service experience. The Gingerbread Kids’ Academy appreciates the service these young men and women provide for our community.

Jose Ramirez, Tim Kaminski, Davon Ramirez, Sabas Cortez, Alexis Dimas, Gabriella DeLeon, Tomas Ramirez, Billy Hammack and Daryl Segura.


AccessHealth volunteers and staff kicked off the 2016 Heart of Fort Bend with a reception at Fernando’s Steakhouse in Sugar Land. The event is scheduled for Thursday, October 27th at Safari Texas.

Betty Baitland and Hillary Goldstein.

Sharonda DeBose, Kay Garrett and Barbara Benes. Carol Edwards.

Patti Parish-Kaminski and Cindy Reaves.

Alexa Goldstein and David Timmermeyer.

Evalyn Moore and Tim Kaminski.

On March 21st, the YMCAs of Fort Bend County, which include the Fort Bend, Katy and TW Davis YMCAs, held their 10th Annual Spring Golf Classic and Auction. Over 130 golfers participated in the event, which netted the YMCA a record-breaking $63,000 for its local Annual Support Campaign.

Jessie Parkins, Stella Gaskin, Zharia Clark, Maggie Ochoa, Ed Conner, Barbara Jones, Pam Filip, Martin Morcho, Holly Kaminga, Jess Stuart, Thomas Gonzales, Bill Myers, Rose Gonzales and Victoria, Corrion and Mia Brasher.


•in Historical Downtown Rosenberg•

Enjoy The Sights & SoundsWhile You Shop Around!

D&S Antiques & Collectibles Mall

Come shop with us, then explore Historic Downtown’s 3 restaurants and 12 other antique & boutique shops.

D&S Refinishing & Restoration

Like Us or Follow Us

• Caning • Weaving • Some Reupholstery• Complete Repair and Refinishing Shop

• Sewing Machine Repair• Scissor Sharpening Full Line of Howard

Wood Care Products

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


OUT&ABOUT


OUT&ABOUT

Fort Bend leaders recently gathered with others throughout the state at the 6th Annual Republican Party of Texas Austin Legislative Dinner held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Austin.

Amy Clark, Dan Patrick, George P. Bush, Glenn Hegar, Christi Craddick, Ken Paxton, Ryan Sitton, Tom Mechler, Regina Morales, Greg Abbott and Vincent M. Morales, Jr.

Legacy Ford supported the 2016 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (HLSR) by purchasing school art by talented Houston area students and championship wine in the HLSR auctions, helping to provide funds for scholarships for deserving Texas students.

Ron and Juliana Ewer proudly displayed Tough Love by student Marcos Garcia and Pondering on the Prairie by student Amy Yang at Legacy Ford for customers to view.

Photo by Bob Daemm

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Historic Downtown Rosenberg’s BR Vino hosted a reception featuring an art exhibit by local artist Cisco Kolkmeier.

Patti Parish-Kaminski and Cisco Kolkmeier.

Cathey Olenick, Janelle Kucera, Deborah Kappes and Diane Box.

Donna Ferguson, Sally Baskey and Linda Drummond.

The volunteers of OakBend Medical Center hosted Power of the Purse to raise funds for the renovation of the hospital’s Skilled Nursing Unit. The event featured lunch and a silent auction of 28 purses. Keynote speaker Sally Baskey brought out her alter-ego Ida Mae Fudpucker to poke fun at some of the guests and encourage them to give generously. With over 100 attendees, the event raised over $17,000.


& GradsDadsThingsWeLove-JustforDads&Grads!

DRIVING IN STYLEIt’s just what dads and grads always wanted: 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 the perfect gift for Dad.Texas Direct Auto, 12053 Southwest Freewayin Stafford. Call 281-499-8200;www.TexasDirectAuto.com.

GRADUATION BLOOMSSend your congratulations and best wishes for the future to that special grad with a custom made bouquet from LC Floral Designs.LC Floral Designs, 204 Highway 90A East in Richmond. Call 281-342-8839; www.lcfloraldesigns.com.

CLARISONIC SMART PROFILEThis Smart-enabled, multipurpose cleansing device cleanses 11 times better than hands alone for smooth, clean skin from head to toe. It provides a powerful, professional cleanse at the push of a button. Sugar Land Face & Body Plastic Surgery, 16926 Southwest Freeway in Sugar Land. Call 281-313-0555; www.beautybecomesyou.com.

A CUTTING EDGE GIFTEvery dad should have a great knife. This Father’s Day, treat Dad to a new pocket or hunting knife from D & S Antiques’ wide selection. D & S Antiques, 801 2nd Street in Historic Downtown Rosenberg. Call 281-232-0035.

LETTERS TO DADFrom first time fathers to grandfathers or whoever you celebrate on Father’s Day, let Freckles help you find that perfect gift.Freckles Stationery and Gifts, 8030 FM 359 South in Fulshear. Call 281-536-4900; www.frecklescentral.com.

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W hen settlers came to live along the Brazos River in Fort Bend County in the

early 1820s, the 300 families who re-ceived land grants from the Spanish Government had one thing in common: They were all a part of the Anglo-Amer-ican colonization of Texas. This vague classification did not define the depth of nationalities that began to set roots and share in the multicultural heritage and traditions among the settlers.

By the time the British arrived in the New World, Spanish settlers al-ready inhabited much of Texas. Along with Portugal, Spain dominated New World exploration and settled in Texas for a time. They left a deep mark of cultural diversity. The Spanish lan-guage influenced the names for many of the rivers, towns and counties that

A LI T TLE P I ECE OF HISTORY

By Joan Frances

still exist, and Spanish architecture is still prevalent. Natives of Ireland were among the first settlers of Spanish-ruled Texas. Four signed the Texas Declaration of Independence, and at least 100 were listed on the rolls at San Jacinto. In fact, many Irish were part of the original Old Three Hundred.

When Fort Bend began to grow and plantation economies developed, Afri-can American slaves were widespread. By the 1850s, Fort Bend was one of six counties in the state with a majority African American population. By 1860, Fort Bend’s slave population was 4,127, more than twice the white population of 2,016. After slavery was abolished, many African Americans remained in the Rosenberg and Richmond areas.

By the 1900s, cultures that led to the state’s diversity included Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, Swiss, Syrian, Leb-anese, Polish, French, Italian, Greek, Jewish, African American, Belgian, Indian, German, Norwegian, Spanish and Czech Texans. Along with shar-ing religious beliefs, business practices and traditions, residents took pride in sharing the unique food preparation of these cultures.

Today, numerous cultures commem-orate their heritage in some celebrato-ry fashion throughout the area. Early German colonists hosted festivals with beer, sausage, waltzes and polka bands, and the tradition continues today with Wurstfest and Octoberfest celebra-tions. Tortillas, tacos and enchiladas were a gift from Mexican citizens, and Cinco de Mayo is the day of praise. The Italians brought pizza, pasta and red wine and continue to celebrate during

Fort Bend County: A Fusion of Culture

and TraditionsDennis and Martha Victori with Marvin Adamek at the annual Czech Kolache-Klobase Festival in 2015.

religious holidays. Korean and Viet-namese residents brought dishes that are still sampled at Asian-American festivals. The Chinese shared fried rice and egg rolls, and the Chinese New Year is celebrated as a day of thanks. Greek festivals today boast delectable gyros, souvlaki, lamb, spanakopita, pastitso and more.

One event Fort Bend residents highly anticipate is the annual Czech Kolache-Klobase Festival held in East Bernard. As early as 1882, Czech immi-grants came to the Fort Bend area op-timistic and determined to start a new life. They settled near Germans and Poles with whom they shared tastes in food, music and politics. Czechs are very loyal to their traditions, teaching the language to their families and re-maining devout Catholics.

For the past 26 years, East Bernard has hosted the Czech Kolache-Klobase Festival to share the traditions and food with the public. This year’s festivi-ties will take place from 10:30 am to 8 pm on Saturday, June 11th at River-side Hall in East Bernard. “Kolache,” which means “pocket,” is the term for the famous circular tart made of dou-ble-risen dough with a center topped or filled with a sweet sauce made of cot-tage cheese, prunes, peaches or other fruit filling.

One of the fastest growing counties in the country, Fort Bend is home to over 685,000 people of many different cultures. Every ethnic community is respected and appreciated. With such remarkable support, sharing its mul-ticultural heritage will continue for years to come. Deborah and Michael Loque.

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june 2016 - absolutely brazos magazine

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