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August 2007 $1.95
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Schedule Your Child’s Appointment aybe you got a little crazy while sawing varsity horns off or your gig ‘em Today! Mgot out of hand. If so, our skilled doctors and nurses, many of whom are Aggie grads, are all here to serve you. We understand tradition. As the oldest hospital in the Brazos Valley we have been caring for Aggies for over 75 years. Along with an ER available 24/7, The Med is a full service acute care hospital with skilled doctors, nurses and technicians. We are proud of the advanced technology, new amenities and many medical procedure “firsts” Because her vision is. we have brought to the area. We invite you to see what all the hullabaloo is about. At Scott & White, we understand the importance of starting the school year off right. We proudly offer pediatric eye THE exams to ensure your child’s vision makes the grade.
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For more information or to schedule a visit 979764-5100 www.csmedcenter.com Call 979-691-3400 Official Healthcare Provider for Texas A&M Athletics www.sw.org publisher’sdesk IF YOU ARE the parent of a student beginning their senior year of high school or have a student Every Home Needs who is imminently departing for college, you have my special sympathies. If, after reading the College A Melody Bound story on page 38 you feel short of breath over all the things you haven’t done yet to ensure a successful launch of your student…don’t panic. My about-to-be sophomore college daughter and I decided we only followed about half the excellent recommendations in the story yet she had a great freshman year and her fit with the college is everything we hoped it would be. The biggest difference between the story’s recommendations and her path to college was waiting until the spring of her senior year to visit her top college picks. Because all her top choices were in the northeast, we waited until after she had her acceptance letters to visit them all in a two-week marathon. Not the recommended approach, but it worked for us. The single most important thing we did in selecting the best college fit didn’t even make the advice list, so I’d like to add it here: make sure your student spends the night in a dorm, preferably with students in their prospective major, during college A piece to enjoy visits. What your student learns from dorm chat during spring classes will tell the true tale about over a lifetime. how much support students get from professors and advisors and how hard it is to balance classes and Come by and choose from Chang, Roland, Pearl River. college life. The backwards-walking perky campus our large selection of grands, Prices & service you’ll love in tour guides won’t give you a sense of how stressed verticals, digitals, portable our convenient new location. current freshman are in coping with campus life. keyboards, Clavinovas, and Stop by today to pick out your We had no trouble arranging overnight visits even Disklaviers. The names you new or used piano. on campuses that weren’t hosting prospective want – Yamaha, Kawai, Young student events when we visited. So for everyone in the exhausting, pre-college HOLZE MUSIC CO. run-up: breathe. It gets better. I find myself with drastically reduced stress levels as she prepares Piano Gallery to head back up north on September 1. Though I Where730 E. the Villa music Maria begins! Road, Bryan, TX am a little short of breath realizing it’s only three 979-823-7800; Mon-Sat 10-6 more years until our second child is a high school senior… – Angelique Gammon
4 Insite/August 2007 contents areaevents | page 6 What’s Happening 6 12 Area events around the Brazos Valley compiled by the Insite Magazine staff 33 communityoutreach | page 12 Send Hunger Packing Food Bank to host Feast of Caring by Erin Hill Littlefield smartchoice | page 14 Earning the Grade Private schools offer education options 35 Special Advertising Section artimpact | page 16 Visualizing History 38 Artist Rodney Hill illustrates life in Qatar by Naomi Giroux medicalnews | page 18 Top Docs The best medical care from area physicians Special Advertising Section healthalert | page 33 One is Not Enough Doctors recommend a second chicken pox vaccine by The Texas Medical Association
ON THE COVER: Clockwise from top center: Audrey Johnson, Baylor naturally healthy | page 35 University freshman; Daniel Ferguson, Blinn College freshman transferring to Texas State; JaeCee Ferrell, Texas A&M University Pure Pleasure freshman; Jesse Martinez, Caldwell High School senior, planning to Sand Creek Farm offers raw milk dairy products attend Texas A&M; Hallie Gammon, Middlebury College sophomore; by Erin Hill Littlefield Alexa Cochran, Caldwell High School senior, planning to join Americorps followed by UT Tyler; Owen Foster, Caldwell High School sophomore, planning to attend UT Austin; Chaille Muzny, UT Austin advancededucation | page 38 freshman. Photo by Chandler Arden, Specialties Photgraphy. College Bound INSITE Magazine is published monthly by Insite Printing & Graphic Services, 123 E. Wm. J. Prepping kids, parents and the family budget Bryan Pkwy., Bryan Texas 77803. (979) 823-5567 www.insitegroup.com Volume 24, Number for their biggest adventure 5. Managing Partners: Kyle DeWitt, Angelique Gammon, Greg Gammon. Reproduction in any by Kelli Levey part without written permission of publisher is prohibited. Publisher/Editor: Angelique Gammon; General Manager: Carl Dixon; Account Executive: Cynthia Kauder; Production Manager: Mike Hogeboom; Prepress Manager: Glenn Richards; Graphic Designer: Alida community focus | page 41 Bedard; Office Manager:Molly Barton; Production: Anthony Battles, Steve Beatty, Linda Browning, The Other Local College Joe Campice, Don Coburn, Ricky Conchola, John Daniels, George Galloway, Connie Gosch, Erin Hagar, Brad Hillegeist, Kim Hogeboom, Maggie Irwin, Cynthia Justice, Doug Madison, Arthur Maldonado, Pam Mize, Frank Blinn offers multiple pathways to success Ramirez, Ramon Ruiz, Wendy Seward, Joey Shafer, Randy Valencia, Jimmy Welch, LaCheryl Wilson. By Kelli Levey
August 2007/Insite 5 what’shappening compiled by the Insite Magazine staff with First Fridays in Downtown Bryan. Children ages August 11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Chappell Hill 4-12 are welcome. Space is limited and reservations are Lavender Farm, in cooperation with Lillian Farms, required in advance; cost is $10 per member and $12 per The Inn at Dos Brisas, and Independence Coffee non-member. Call (979) 779-KIDS for more information. Company, will host the second annual “Chappell Hill Lavender Fest.” Both local residents and August 3 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., The Frame tourists are encouraged to experience this “getaway” Gallery, located at 216 N. Bryan Ave., will present First opportunity designed to be a relaxing day for all. Friday at The Gallery featuring more than 40 local and To enhance the experience, the Festival is adding area artists in a wide variety of media. Entertainment is live a new feature this year called Tour de Lavender. jazz and blues beginning at 6:30 p.m. with R.G. Watkins Participating businesses will have signs designating & Friends. There is a fun art activity planned for the kids. them as a stop on the tour. Destinations will include A cash wine bar is provided by Revolution. Call Greta the Bluebonnet House Gift Shop, the Chappell Hill Watkins at (979) 822-0496 for more information. Museum, Lillian Farms Bed and Breakfast, the Southern Rose Ranch Bed and Breakfast, Independence Coffee August 3-5, The Theatre Company presents Thoroughly Company and The Inn at Dos Brisas. The tour will Modern Millie. Winner of the 2003 Tony Award for Best culminate with a stop at the Chappell Hill Lavender Musical, this happy-go-lucky hit is based on the great Julie AUGUST Farm to enjoy the beautiful lavender-covered hills of Andrews musical movie about a young flapper caught in a the charming 23-acre farm. For more information, white slave trading scheme. Performances are Fridays at visit www.chappellhilllavender.com. 7 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Sundays at 2 events p.m. Ticket sales are cash or check only; the Arts Council is on this program and for a complete list of weekly programs unable to reserve tickets. For more information, contact the that’s all we do musictheatre and story time topics, call (979) 779-KIDS. Arts Council at (979) 696-2787.
August 9-12 and 16-19, the Navasota Theatre Alliance August 1 at 1 p.m., the presents August 3 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., The Children’s Museum Children’s Museum presents Moon Over Buffalo directed by Chaz Pitman. Healthy Kids! The Children’s Museum is offering a free presents the Friday Fun-For-ALL: Arctic Adventure. Tickets are $10 for adults, $7.50 for students and seniors, spine summer program to help children and parents understand On the first Friday of each month, children can visit The $6 for NTA members and $5 for children under 12. For the ease and benefit of regular exercise. For more information Children’s Museum for a drop-off program in conjunction more information, call (936) 825-3195. UÊ VÀÃÕÀ}iÀÞ UÊ >ÞÊÛ>ÃÛiÊ-«i UÊ «iÝÉ,iÛÃÊ-«i accent fabric outlet UÊ Þ>VÊ-Ì>Lâ>Ì fabulous fabrics at fantastic prices UÊÀÌvV>Ê ÃVÊ,i«>ViiÌ upholstery fabrics UÊ-VÃÃ drapery fabrics trims and tassels UÊ/À>Õ> supplies
• Hundreds of bolts of home deco fabrics in stock • Custom built furniture and upholstery • Designer fabrics at factory pricing Brazo pine • Drapery panels and linings • Over 70,000 fabrics to choose from 3201 University Drive East No need to travel to Houston or Austin Suite 255 for a huge selection of fabrics! Mukund I. Gundanna, M.D. Bryan, Texas 77802 Troy M. Duley, PA-C. (979) 774-0411 Tel 400 Lake • Bryan, TX 77801 • 979.822.4071 (979) 776-0508 Fax ,9 ÊUÊ " Ê-//" ÊUÊ , ÊUÊ," ÊUÊ ," ÊUÊ 8 www.brazosspine.com 6 Insite/August 2007 spinethat’s all we do UÊ VÀÃÕÀ}iÀÞ UÊ >ÞÊÛ>ÃÛiÊ-«i UÊ «iÝÉ,iÛÃÊ-«i UÊ Þ>VÊ-Ì>Lâ>Ì UÊÀÌvV>Ê ÃVÊ,i«>ViiÌ UÊ-VÃÃ UÊ/À>Õ>
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3201 University Drive East Suite 255 Mukund I. Gundanna, M.D. Bryan, Texas 77802 Troy M. Duley, PA-C. (979) 774-0411 Tel (979) 776-0508 Fax ,9 ÊUÊ " Ê-//" ÊUÊ , ÊUÊ," ÊUÊ ," ÊUÊ 8 www.brazosspine.com what’shappening will host their monthly meeting to plan programs and workshops for 2008. On August 28 at 7 p.m., the group will get together for their monthly stitch-in. Both meetings will be held at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1200 Foxfire, College Station. Guests are always welcome. For more information, contact Marceil Geiser at (979) 696-2292 or www.brazosvalleystitchers.org.
continuingevents
Through October 11, the MSC Visual Arts Committee will present an exhibit by Matt Brown, a painter and BFA graduate of Colorado State University, in the J. Wayne Stark University Center Galleries, located at the northeast August 9 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., The Arts Council of Brazos Valley’s “Texas Gallery,” located in the corner of the Memorial Student Center on the Texas A&M P. David Romei Center, will host an artist’s reception for Iron Earth, sculptures by James Prevost, and Cosmic University Campus. The exhibit will include a selection Energy, paintings by Theodora Saladino Krc. This show will remain up through August 29 and can be viewed of paintings based on his travels to Italy and elsewhere. during the Romei Center’s regular hours: Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday from 9 a.m. to Gallery hours are Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Arts Council is located at 2275 Dartmouth in College Station. For 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 12 noon to 6 p.m. more information, call (979) 696-2787. Admission is free. For more information, please call the Galleries at (979) 845-6081 or visit http://stark.tamu.edu.
August 9-11, 16 -18 and 23-25, presents Ticket sales are cash or check only; the Arts Council is StageCenter Through August 31, the Brazos Valley Museum of Four Dogs and a Bone. This satire about the movie unable to reserve tickets. For more information, contact At any age, be as active as Natural History presents The Popular Art of Brazil, business is full of scheming, backstabbing and cat fights. the Arts Council at (979) 696-2787. showcasing the private collection of Dr. Antonio La Performances are Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:30 Pastina. Ranging from recent works to 18th century p.m., with Thursday performances buy one, get one free. August 21 at 7 p.m., the Brazos Valley Stitchers relics, from woodcarvings to ceramics, this diverse you want to be… we’ll help you get there Karate gives children the confidence to Orthopedic Services achieve their u Total Joint Replacement goals, hopes and · In-depth education regarding pre-operative dreams. and post-operative surgical care After · Pre-Operative classes taught by Registered school programs Nurse, Physical Therapist, and Home Health available nurse for after surgical care planning · One-on-one physical therapy provided twice daily in your room Call today and ask about our Back to school program. · Spacious patient suites with attached family WADO KARATE CENTERS room with a separate TV, telephone and 2748 Longmire Drive Suite A sofa bed College Station, TX 77845 www.gowado.com u Sports Medicine Medical & Surgical Care 979.693.5420 u Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery A new way of caring Offer expires 10/1/2007 Hospital u Arthritis Care 3131 University Dr. E • Bryan • (979) 731-3100 u 8 Insite/August 2007 State of the Art Techniques www.thephysicianscentre.com At any age, be as active as you want to be… we’ll help you get there
Orthopedic Services u Total Joint Replacement · In-depth education regarding pre-operative and post-operative surgical care · Pre-Operative classes taught by Registered Nurse, Physical Therapist, and Home Health nurse for after surgical care planning · One-on-one physical therapy provided twice daily in your room · Spacious patient suites with attached family room with a separate TV, telephone and sofa bed u Sports Medicine Medical & Surgical Care u Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery A new way of caring Hospital u Arthritis Care 3131 University Dr. E • Bryan • (979) 731-3100 u State of the Art Techniques www.thephysicianscentre.com Insite.pdf 5/7/07 2:38:28 PM what’shappening collection contains many different artistic styles and 4MbQ ?[YQ 2aZ [Z 3MXbQ_`[Z 5_XMZP is sure to please the art enthusiast, anthropologist and casual observer alike. Hours are Monday through Good Times for the Summer Are Here! Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. World-Class Attractions - Sun-Filled Days to 5 p.m. For more information, contact the Museum at And 32 Miles of Beaches (979) 776-2195.
Hawthorn Suites at the Victorian Resort Through August 31, the Brazos Valley Museum of • Free Hot Breakfast Daily • Free Internet Access Natural History presents the Flying Reptiles of the • Free Social Hour Each Wednesday Evening Frithiof Collection, a display of rare fossils of flying C • Spacious one and two bedroom suites with private Gulfview balconies reptiles that lived during the same time period as, and M Two Swimming Pools for Year-Round Fun are closely related to, dinosaurs. One of Texas’ leading Y • Paradise Cove pool features a water drop mushroom, paleontological experts, “Dinosaur” George Blasing, a floating alligator, water cannon, and zero depth will unveil these spectacular specimens, including the CM entry with bubbling jets to tickle your toes only known crested Nyctosaurus (a flying reptile) found MY • Heated Waterfall Lagoon pool has a romantic rock waterfall in any collection. The hours for the Museum are Monday CY More Resort Amenities through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday CMY • Fitness Center, Lighted Tennis Court, Picnic Pavilion from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, contact the and Game Room K Museum at (979) 776-2195. Group Sales & Catering Service • We offer a wide variety of meeting opportunities for your events Through September 1, the Texas A&M Cushing Memorial Library presents an exhibit in the Mayo- 6300 Seawall Thomas Room honoring Mary and Mavis P. Kelsey. at Galveston The exhibit showcases several unique books in the Kelsey The Victorian Resort The Victorian Resort 800-231-6363 Collection. Subjects highlighted in the exhibit include & Conference Center www.hawthorn.com natural history, book illustration, Western Americana, Texana and exploration. This exhibition is open to the public on the first floor gallery. For more information, contact the Code #HSVR7 Library at (979) 845-1951 or [email protected].
Through January 21, 2008, the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum presents the spectacular White House in Miniature at the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum. Hours are Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 12 noon to 5 p.m. For admission prices and more information, call (979) 691-4006 or visit bushlibrary.tamu.edu.
planahead
September 6-8 in Caldwell, Creative Memories Quilt Guild will host its 21st annual show at the Caldwell Civic Center on Hwy. 21. There is no admission to the show, which will feature more than 80 quilts. A quilt titled “Christmas Concert” will be raffled. The show is open from 12 noon to 6 p.m. on Thursday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday; and 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday during the Kolache Festival. For more information, call (979) 567- 0000 or visit www.burlesoncountytx.com.
September 8 on the Square in Downtown Caldwell, visit the Kolache Festival from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. and enjoy Czech music, dancing, food and craft booths. Czech bands will play throughout the day. Call (979) 567-0000 for more information or visit www.burlesoncountytx.com. i 10 Insite/August 2007 BrainLAB Radiosurgery treats brain tumors with pinpoint accuracy in a comfortable, outpatient setting. The minimally-invasive procedure involves no incision, and most patients go home shortly afterwards. Many tumors and diseases not otherwise treatable, or treated only with high-risk surgery, can now be treated with radiosurgery by doctors at The Texas Brain and Spine Institute. The BrainLAB Radiosurgery program is located at the St. Joseph Regional Cancer Center. The Texas Brain and Spine Institute is dedicated to advancing Neurosciences in Central Texas.
1.800.793.9106 • www.txbsi.com Bryan College Station Brenham Huntsville Temple communityoutreach by Erin Hill Littlefield
Send Hunger Packing Food Bank to Host Feast of Caring
the 1960s, Phoenix businessman “There are people who can’t work and means they can’t make ends meet. If the In and soup kitchen volunteer John people who have worked their whole lives and primary breadwinner gets sick, “it throws the van Hengel opened a warehouse where are now retired,” she says. Many recipients are entire family into a different circumstance.” he could store donations and distribute working poor. “Everything is so connected,” Locally, some 29,000 individuals were them to charities feeding hungry people. A 1976 federal grant to develop food banks It is a misconception that the Food Bank cannot nationwide helped the concept take flight when Hengel asked stores for food that accept perishable items. If you have a garden, we would be thrown away, recounts Theresa can take the leftovers. We want to have as much Mangapora, executive director of the Brazos produce as we can. Valley Food Bank. “Enthusiastic businesses bombarded him with donations. Theresa Mangapora, Brazos Valley Food Bank “He was creating a new process,” she says, one that made its way to the Brazos she says. “Poverty is connected to living wage, assisted by BVFB partner agencies last Valley in 1985. The Brazos Valley Food to availability of jobs, and to education.” year. Based on information collected by Bank’s conception was very “grass roots,” Mangapora stresses that they are a “safety these agencies, 42 percent of those served started by a handful of concerned citizens. net.” For some families, an unexpected bill were children 18 or younger. Yet analysis of BVFB supplies a variety of partner agencies in our community, such as church pantries, the Salvation Army, Project Unity, Phoebe’s AUGUST 8: FEAST OF CARING Home and BVCASA, where people live The Brazos Valley Food Bank will give the community the opportunity to savor its onsite. Places like the Boys & Girls Club are support for the ongoing mission of ending hunger in the Brazos Valley during the 14th supplied with juice boxes and granola bars. annual Feast of Caring, to be held Wednesday, August 8 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Though we live in “a country of plenty,” at the Brazos Center. The modest meal of beans, rice, sausage and bread, prepared many people wake up each day in a state of by Epicures Catering, “depicts the largest and most nutritious meal many of our hunger, Mangapora says. She would like to neighbors have,” says Executive Director Theresa Mangapora. It’s a free meal – open dismantle the negative stereotypes of the to everybody – and a fundraising event. Donations are welcome and will support the food insecure, those who do not know where mission of the Food Bank. every meal will come from. Based on surveys “Some people write big checks, while others show their support,” says Mangapora. at the food pantries, nearly 40 percent of BVFB expects between 1000 and 1500 people to attend. Call the Brazos Valley Food individuals needing food have someone in Bank at (979) 779-3663 for more information. their household who is working.
12 Insite/August 2007 Texas in an effort to alleviate hunger. Around 14 percent of those served by BVFB partners are senior citizens, many on fixed incomes. Meals on Wheels serves 400 homebound seniors in four counties with a hot meal Monday through Friday. But when Meals on Wheels informed BVFB that “some folks split the meal” to make it last, the idea of an extra bag with the last weekday meal was born. The recipient rations it as needed over the weekend. Right now, BVFB has funds to help 100 seniors each week. For those seniors, the Meals on Wheels volunteer is “like a guardian angel,” shares Mangapora. Much of the stock at BVFB comes from reclamation and salvage. For example, shipping company Farrell Inc. may deliver a food order to a purchaser, but if “a company rejects it for whatever reason, Farrell will bring it to us so that it won’t be thrown away.” Ricky Goldsmith is a warehouse worker Other companies, like HEB, have made it Theresa Mangapora, executive director at the Brazos Valley Food Bank. part of their corporate mission to support of the Brazos Valley Food Bank food banking. poverty statistics and food stamp eligibility It is a misconception that the Food “We get produce,” she says, adding, show that they should be serving more like Bank cannot accept perishable items. Their “It is a win-win situation. We pay to ship 47,000, she says. warehouse includes multiple walk-in freezers it here, and farmers get reimbursement.” That gap is a concern. There are language and coolers, and people can drop off food Produce like oranges, grapefruit, lettuce and barriers and cultural differences that make from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. watermelon fly off the shelves. it difficult for some in need to connect with “(We are) really flexible,” she says. “If you While the food bank cannot take those who can give. “It takes some thinking have a garden, we can take the leftovers. We “homemade goods that don’t list out of the box,” shares Mangapora. want to have as much produce as we can.” ingredients,” tuna fish and peanut butter are Mangapora is excited by the Texas The backpack program at several always needed. Feeding Texas program, a grant offered from elementary schools in Bryan and College But when the school year ends and the the Department of Agriculture that connects Station is an example of such thought. BVFB students leave, hungry families remain. them to farmers in the Rio Grande Valley. provides 20-25 food-filled backpacks every Although summer brings a slow down Friday at each partner school. Sometimes in donations, hunger doesn’t go away. If there aren’t enough to go around. In schools anything, BVFB partner agencies see an where the majority of children qualify for increased need. Some families miss free free/reduced lunch, the nurses or counselors school meals; providing food for children at pick the most needy. home can drain finances. “We entrust them to know what their The Junior League just awarded the Food needs are. Our role at the food bank is to Bank the fifth and final Future Impact Gift get grant money, to have the right kinds of payment. The Junior League promised a food and deliver it. The schools discreetly distribute the backpacks.” The response has minimum of $100,000 in 2002 to retire the been phenomenal. Started in 2005 with help debt on its new facility. Instead of stopping from the United Way Youth Cabinet, the at $100,000, The Junior League effectively program receives sponsorships and grants. doubled the gift, bringing the amount to The goal is to have backpacks for all requests. $200,000 with the 2007 award. Each backpack costs about $7, yet its value to “The food bank’s building note is now less the hungry child cannot be quantified. than $5,000, which we will easily pay off by Groups that purchase supplies themselves year’s end,” says Mangapora happily. In honor and donate backpacks handout ready thrill of this generosity, the food bank named its Mangapora. The Junior League recently gave warehouse “The Junior League Center.” $5,200 to add a backpack site this fall; this Mangapora is grateful for such strong will bring the program to seven schools. community support. “We are very fortunate. BVFB also runs a senior outreach program I like to say this is the community’s food using funds from the Beaumont Foundation, bank. We couldn’t do anything without which granted $30,000 to every food bank in our partners.” i August 2007/Insite 13 Allen Academy – Where values lead our vision everyday Dear Friends, the social contexts of your relation- We look forward to meeting you. Ours is a special school, a spe- ships with people. Our program is In Service and Stewardship, cial place made possible due to an grounded in emotional intelligence Bob Meyer unwavering commitment to our core theory and is taught from Preschool Head of School values and the families who believe through the twelfth grade. so passionately in them. I invite you That, in a nutshell, is Allen Academy. Where values lead to visit our campus and to feel our vision everyday. first-hand what a values based education can provide your child and family. As you con- sider Allen Academy, I invite you to keep in mind the three core values which drive our programming: • We are exclusively col- lege preparatory. There are no tracks at Allen Academy. Every student navigates a col- lege preparatory curriculum resulting in Advanced Placement We firmly believe that a values- courses in the Upper School. This based education is the best educa- starts in Preschool and runs through tion for your children. In a values- the twelfth grade. Our philosophy is based education, your children’s that all students are capable of high vision and potential is unlimited. achievement, so we set the bar high and we help kids get there. Allen • We have focused Academy… resources for each child. a world of This is most demon- difference. strable in our class sizes. The average class size at Allen Academy is 11 and we never put more than 18 students in a class- room. We believe educa- tion is a conversation, not a communication. It is an exchange of ideas, of growth, of expression. As such, small class sizes allow us to carry on our essential conversations on a daily basis. Please call (979) 776-0731 • We have an inclusive, respon- to schedule a personal tour. sible, and transparent culture. That is a mouthful and can be defined in a variety of ways. For me, is boils down to our character development and leadership program. I can assure you that our program is one of the most innovative and effective in the state of Texas. Studies state that 80% of a person’s future success is grounded in emotional intelligence - the ability to apply what you know and learn to
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Saint Michael’s Academy Is it possible that a school exists community for its nurturing Preschool and Chuck Raymer, new Head of Saint where education is unsurpassed, afford- Nursery. That same inclusive and welcom- Michael’s Academy, shares that, “From my able, family oriented, and faith based? ing environment is one of the biggest gifts first step on the Saint Michael’s campus, Saint Michael’s Academy is just the place. our K – XII program offers its students and I was drawn to the school for its classi- Founded in 1972, this accredited Episcopal families. cal roots, unambiguous commitment to school has provided an incomparable clas- Small class size facilitates our ability high academic standards, and cultivation sical, college-preparatory curriculum for to provide personal attention, of individual worth. 35 years. and many of our faculty hold Neither is the school The education that children receive at advanced degrees in their simply resting on its SMA is individualized, based on the classi- respective fields. All enjoy history—this fall we cal method of inquiry and includes honors a work environment that is will move forward with level and AP classes; all of which produce wholly committed to the suc- the construction of a results. Fifty percent of the Class of 2005 cess of each child. new gymnasium and was named National Merit Scholars. The Saint Michael’s Academy performance venue. average range of SAT scores is consis- invites children of all faiths Now is a particularly tently high with occasional perfect scores. a n d n a t i o n s t o b e g i n a l i f e t i m e energetic time to join Recent graduates have chosen schools of enlightened understand- the Saint Michael’s such as Rice, Middlebury, Harvey Mudd ing and discernment through community. I invite and Texas A&M to call home for the next rigorous study and informed you to come tour our part of their educational journey. We are faith, according to the clas- campus and to speak proud to call these bright, hard working sical model. They learn to with Admissions students part of the Saint Michael’s com- articulate their opinions and Director Patsy Cargill munity. beliefs while being respectful of the beliefs about your child’s future.” But it takes more than stellar faculty, of others. Daily Chapel and weekly Sacred For more information about a Saint diligent students, and a classical curricu- Studies classes are a unique and enriching Michael’s Academy education, please call lum to make an excellent school. Learning part of the Saint Michael’s education, pro- (979) 822-2715. happens best in an environment that is viding a rich foundation of Christian values both nurturing and accepting, one that which teach children to grow in character will enrich and “grow” the whole child. and love for one another. Saint Michael’s is known throughout the Brazos Christian School Twenty-six years ago a group of con In the School of Grammar (Grades Nearly every graduate has gone on to cerned parents dreamed of an academic 1-5) and the School of Logic (Grades 6-8), the college or the university of their choice, environment grounded in God’s word while students cultivate the joy of learning. The furthermore, some are receive significant offering their children an advanced edu- foundational groundwork is laid which is academic and athletic scholarships to uni- cation. They envisioned a n e c e s s a r y versities such as Rice, Baylor, CALTECH school that would develop for success and TAMU. their children’s potential in the college Brazos Christian School welcomes all academically, spiritually preparatory inquiries for the 2007-2008 school year. and physically to the full- program to You are invited to the campus for a tour est and Brazos Christian follow. at 3000 West Villa Maria Road, Bryan; ask School was born. for Director of Admissions, Kelly Rogers. Fully accredited today, Call (979) 823-1000; or visit the website at Brazos Christian School www.bcseagles.org. offers Pre School through twelfth grade programs with approximately 240 students on a Students in the School well-equipped twenty-four acre campus. of Rhetoric (Grades 9-12) Highly qualified, state certified teachers receive a strong college compassionately develop Wisdom, Truth, preparatory program com and Virtue in students of the school. This plemented by logic, fine month Brazos Christian School begins cel- arts, computer skills, inter- ebrating its 26th year of providing superior national travel, community results without compromising its original service and a wide range of Christian purpose. athletics. Annual standard- First, a warm and caring Pre School ized testing places students nurtures children in their formative years. for the national norms in all Young hearts and minds eagerly learn the grades, with seniors scoring scriptures, socialize, pray in class, and considerably above average among other academic attainments, read on their SATs. upon completion of Kindergarten.
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION arthistory by Naomi Giroux
Drs.Short Weichold Timeline and Bowman Projectchose the right person for the gift they sought to present to the major benefactors of the Qatar Texas Visualizing A&M University System campus. The goal was to create a sculpture depicting the history of Arabic contributions to the world in science, engineering and invention. The History project was on a short timeline; approval of the concept was given on November 1, 2006, and the sculpture needed to be unveiled in Qatar on March 19, 2007. Hill immersed himself in the history of Artist the Arabic world and Qatar with the help of Sandy Tucker, research librarian at the Evans Library, and the internet. Hill gathered a fast-track team of artisans to complete the Rodney Hill gift. His wife, Sue, did woodcarving and final completion of the wood elements. Eric Wendt, a Texas A&M graduate and woodworker, created the walnut blanks. Illustrates Steve Baker of Timeworks cast the bronze plaques and screens, and the brass frame was done locally. The welding brought in another Aggie graduate, Kenneth Kleckley Life in of Brazos Industries. The components of the sculpture were assembled at Timeworks. A special packing team came to examine the piece and discuss ways to transport the 900- Qatar pound structure. A cradle was designed for it inside a special crate and then foam packing was added around the sculpture. Some of the smaller, more fragile pieces Hill carried with him on the flight over. you want a piece of artwork that brass Silver Taps sculptures demonstrate The 13-foot-tall sculpture was placed will represent the history of your Hill’s gift with metals. An 8-foot-tall on a reinforced, movable platform under country,If company or favorite hobbies, whom obelisk made of wood and bronze is in the Hill’s direction. Finally, the “Obelisk of do you approach? Sterling C. Evans Library. Hill’s work can Knowledge” was ready to be presented to Mark Weichold, newly appointed dean be found in churches, businesses and private His Highness Sheikh Hamad Khalifa Al- and chief executive officer of Texas A&M homes across Texas and around the nation. Thani and Her Highness Sheikha Mozah University at Qatar, and Charles Bowman, Nationally and internationally, you can find Bint Nasser Al-Missned. Her Highness liked the outgoing dean, knew just whom to call his pieces in The Texas Room of the American the Obelisk so much she gave Hill a personal with their special request. They called Texas Revolution Museum in Washington, DC, audience to thank him and invited him to A&M University College of Architecture and as public art in London. His works vary dinner at the palace with the dignitaries. professor Rodney Hill. from whimsical toilet seats to gifts for Qatar royalty to religious images and themes. HillObelisk uses the of obelisk Knowledge form to tell stories Hill is an exceptional teacher and RodneyArtist, Hill joined Teacher, the College Mentor of Architecture about Arab culture in relief on the four sides, mentor. He holds the Eppright University in 1969, but his life as a professional artist top, and inside of the structure. The Obelisk Professorship in Undergraduate Teaching goes back many years. Probably his most- stands on a base of four bronze plaques viewed works are seen by Aggies and visitors Excellence and has received many awards engraved with a verse from the Qur’an chosen to the Texas A&M Memorial Center, where for excellence, including the 2006-2007 by Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Bint Nasser seven 8-foot-by-3-foot carved wooden panels Texas A&M University Honors Program Al-Missned. It reads: “We indeed offer the depict the history of A&M. Commissioned Teacher/Scholar Award, which included Trust to the Heavens and the Earth and the for the school’s sesquicentennial anniversary, a Segway as part of the award. You can Mountains; they refused to undertake it, the original six panels were unveiled in 1976 find him riding it around campus in nice being afraid thereof: but man undertook it; after two years of work by Hill and his wife, weather. Most recently, he was awarded the He was indeed unjust and foolish,” verse 72, Sue. The seventh panel was added in 1990 as 2007 Wells Fargo Honors Faculty Mentor Surat Al-Ahzab. the University expanded. Award. One of the most telling examples The next panels depict oysters and pearls Hill works in several media. A work in of his ability to stimulate creativity and in walnut; the pearl industry was the ancient walnut hangs in the Sanders Corps Center excellence lies in the awards his students economic base for the culture of Qatar. on campus. The bronze Muster and the and past students have won. Bronze screens in Arab design are the next
16 Insite/August 2007 boat. Above the hull of the boat is a bronze representing electrical, petroleum, chemical replica of an ancient navigational device, and civil engineering. the Arabic Astrolabe. The penultimate level contains four panels The next level comprises four bronze in walnut and bronze. One panel illustrates plaques inscribed in Arabic that represent ancient medical tools (surprisingly similar to mathematical contributions to the those in use today), chemical and pharmacy world through trigonometry, algebra, symbols, and an eye representing optometry. algorithms, and decimal fractions. An adjacent panel portrays the Qatar flag. Chemistry, pharmacy, optics, and the House of Wisdom are also depicted. A tree on the third panel symbolizes the Looking upward and into a cave with Qatar Foundation for Education, Science stairs, we see a bronze replica of a celestial and Community (the Qatar Foundation armillary (a unique astronomical instrument represents the ancient House of Wisdom). developed by the Muslim astronomers) The fourth panel contains carvings of ancient suspended from a high dome representing bamboo calligraphy pens surmounted by the the sky, depicting the importance of Arabic Arabic word for “read.” contributions to astronomy and navigation. The top panels are bronze screens An authentic 19th century Persian sundial decorated by a pattern of computer circuits, and a compass are embedded in the wooden and a replica of a modern oil tanker represents panels that form the sides of the cave. Most of the 13-foot-tall, 900-pound the momentum and importance of education The sky dome is behind bronze panels sculpture was constructed locally before to Qatar as they move forward in technology depicting ancient geometric Arabic star being shipped in a special crate to Qatar. and use of natural resources. patterns. Looking down on the carved sky The crown of the Obelisk contains oil and dome reveals the earth, above which hangs level. Two bronze dedication panels in a computerized reproduction of a petroleum gas pipelines and holding tanks representing English and Arabic are attached to two sides tri-bit (a drilling tool), representing the the world position of Qatar in the field of of the screens. current oil industry. Binary code adorns natural energy. Above the screens are walnut panels the architectural mosque, representing the depicting dates and date palm leaves. control of the oil industry by computers. Naomi Giroux, M.ED., RN is a freelance Jutting out from two sides on this level Two sides of the dome contain geometric writer living in the Brazos Valley. E-mail her at are the wooden hulls of an ancient oyster Arabic patterns and mathematical formulas [email protected]
Brazos Valley College Tech Prep Partnership Can Prepare You For The Road Ahead
Contact your high school counselor or call (979) 209-7207
August 2007/Insite 17 DR. JOHN H. FOCKE, III John H. Focke, III, M.D. ’69, knew from an early After fulfilling a dream of coming back to age that he wanted to become a physician. Stricken Aggieland, in August 2006, Dr. Focke opened with Guillian-Barre’ at the age of 12, he spent a Medical Express Urgent Care. The clinic may be new, lot of time observing the workings of the medical but it quickly established itself in the community. community. An Aggie by birth, TAMU was part of Winner of the 2007 Reader’s Choice Award, Medical his plans, and he followed in his father’s footsteps Express Urgent Care fills a need for many of the in the Fightin” Texas Aggie Band. His use of a area’s residents. It lives up to its motto: “When a walking stick kept him from actually marching, but Band-aid isn’t enough and you need Quality Medical the structured regimen of the Corps served him well Care NOW!” through medical school and residency. Dr. Focke feels so strongly about the need for After over 25 years of Family Practice and Urgent Care that he was elected to the Board of TEmergency Room experience, Dr. Focke recognized Directors of the American Board of Urgent Care I a changing trend in the world of medical care. With Medicine. “At Medical Express Urgent Care,” our transient society, many people never establish explains Dr. Focke, “positive outcomes are our top a relationship with a primary care physician, and priority. We offer you the best possible diagnoses the general condition of healthcare has left many and work as a team to offer friendly service and people with nowhere to turn except the ER. The vast professional care with less expense, less wait time majority of injuries and illnesses occur as acute, non- and more compassion.” life threatening episodes in the lives of otherwise Medical Express Urgent Care is conveniently healthy people who don’t need the ER and often located on West Villa Maria between FM 2818 and can’t get in to see a physician. With Urgent Care, Traditions Golf Course. It’s open seven days a week patients have the option of being seen rapidly and with extended hours. No appointment is necessary, economically. and the clinic has in-house lab & x-ray. For more No appointments, extended hours and being information, please call (979) 821-6339. open seven days a week offer more convenience to the patient. This frees the ER to focus on true emergencies.
care nurses all come together as a team to make this CANCER CLINIC area a true cancer destination. Patients no longer have to travel great distances and every portion of In every profession there are those that stand out, those cancer treatment is available in depth locally. that rise above the average and the common place. It usually isn’t a position they seek, but something that While the vision of a cancer care destination evolves naturally from a commitment, a passion for has been achieved, nobody is resting. Dr. Tripathy, what they do. Dr. Jenkins and Dr. Fleener have recognized this In the profession of cancer area’s ever-growing demand for cancer care and care, we are fortunate to have three have carefully planned an expansion that will individuals who have achieved this accommodate patients for years to come. same level of unspoken respect and The all-new Cancer Clinic facility represents recognition. They are Drs. Tripathy, the very latest in patient comfort, convenience, and Jenkins and Fleener. Together they efficiency of design. In its final stages of completion I are simply known as The Cancer and already open for patients, the facility is symbolic Clinic. of the forward thinking and investment in patients Diverse in background, education well-being that is vital when creating a true cancer and individual specialization, these destination. three physicians have come together All of this effort has produced its share of to comprise a medical practice that recognition for The Cancer Clinic. Dr. Jenkins has is now seen by many patients as the been recognized four times by Texas Monthly as a definitive destination for advanced top cancer doctor and Dr. Tripathy was voted by cancer treatment. This destination status didn’t Eagle readers as their preferred choice for a cancer come by chance, but rather by design, care physician. Now, with this most recent Top stemming from a vision begun over 20 years ago by Doc recognition by Insite Magazine, the physicians Dr. Tripathy, the founder of The Cancer Clinic. are humbled, but at the same time proud that this Today, surgeons, medical oncologist, radiation recognition is representative of the broader mission oncologist, in-patient, out-patient, imaging services, of The Cancer Clinic – to simply be the best cancer primary care physicians and specially trained cancer care destination in Brazos Valley.
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION DR. NANCY SCHEINOST Improving the quality of life one patient at important to see a Rheumatologist as soon as a time. This is the foundation by which Dr. possible. Nancy Scheinost still practices. She has been in In most cases a referral is not required and practice in the Bryan/College Station area since you can call directly for an appointment. The 1996, working at Sadler Clinic prior to that in sooner you seek medical attention, the sooner both Conroe and The Woodlands. they can help you get control of the disease. Dr. Scheinost graduated Magna Cum Dr. Scheinost believes in practicing “state Laude from the University of Nebraska at of the art” medicine, offering on-site Remicade IOmaha with a BA in Chemistry, staying in treatments, bone density testing, and has Omaha and receiving her MD from University expanded to include total metabolism testing of Nebraska Medical Center. She went on to do and food allergy testing. Total metabolism her Internal Medicine Residency in Scottsdale testing tells not only your percentage of body Arizona at Good Samaritan Hospital and her fat and lean muscle mass, but the amount of fellowship in Rheumatology at the University calories your body actually needs for the day. of California San Diego in LaJolla. She has been This helps counsel patients on weight loss and practicing medicine in Texas for 14 years and healthy eating programs. For every pound of has helped thousands of patients improve the weight loss, it takes at least 4 pounds of stress quality of their lives. off your joints. The test also indicates if you’re This year she welcomed Amber Mick to drinking enough water. Even mild dehydration her practice. Amber is a physician assistant increases stress hormones and slows down your who comes to the practice with 22 years of metabolism. experience and expertise. Amber works full Food allergy testing is another service Dr. time for Dr. Scheinost and “loves it.” Scheinost now offers. Certain foods can actually “Dr. Scheinost is a knowledgeable and act like poison to your body. Finding out which caring physician who treats her patients and staff foods you are allergic to can relieve chronic as family and I am proud to be a part of it,” says health problems such as arthritis, chronic Amber. “Our patients are truly inspirational fatigue, inability to lose weight, and irritable and a joy to get to know personally.” bowel syndrome, just to name a few. Changing Nikki Marchant has been with Dr. your diet may help you avoid costly medications Scheinost since 2003. She is a certified medical for your health problems. massage therapist who has helped countless “We continue to grow to find new and patients and clients with muscle strain and innovative ways to help patients,” Dr. Scheinost chronic pain. explains. “It is a blessing from God to be able One of the most frequently asked to make a difference in someone’s life.” questions by patients is, “when is it time to see For more information about Dr. Scheinost’s a Rheumatologist?” Dr. Scheinost recommends services or to schedule an appointment, please that you schedule an appointment when call (979) 774-7896. symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, when over the counter medications used occasionally do not work, or if you run a fever or have severe fatigue with the arthritis. If you have a family history of arthritis, it’s also very
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION DR. DAWN STORY Educating patients is an important part of any healthcare years ago. She then met Dr. Angela Lundy healthcare professional’s daily schedule. Dr. Dawn Piper, founder of Grace Wellness Center, where she Story of Grace Wellness Center contends, however, worked as a chiropractic assistant. Dr. Lundy was that providing patients the key to a life of wellness truly a mentor for Dr. Story, encouraging her through anything but routine. Grace Wellness Center is the every step of her education and helping Dr. Story to innovative result of combining the services of Brazos focus on the clinical aspects of chiropractic care. Valley Chiropractic and Alternative Healthcare Dr. Story, a member of both the Texas and Associates. The Bryan clinic specializes in chiropractic, American Chiropractic Associations, is also a alternative healthcare and acupuncture. certified acupuncturist, receiving this designation Dr. Story, a Brazos Valley native, listens to in 2005. Acupuncture has been used for centuries the concerns of area residents and helps them to as a natural remedy for headaches, sinus problems, Eunderstand how to apply changes to their everyday menstrual cramping, chronic pain, disk problems, L lives in order to feel better. People often experience overall fatigue and much more. The procedure has pain but may think it’s a part of life or just due to been shown aid in the release of endorphins and the natural process of aging. Dr. Story strives to help immune system cells that help calm and soothe the her patients understand that they can do something body. about the headaches, low back pain or other ailments Despite the success of chiropractic care and they may be experiencing. acupuncture to repair the body, Dr. Story contends “Patients need to be educated on their general that maintenance and prevention are the keys to health and what’s going on with their bodies,” says overall wellness. Her role at Grace Wellness Center Dr. Story. “We treat patients at Grace Wellness can best be summed up as healer, healthcare counselor Center using chiropractic, acupuncture and massage and educator. therapy, but core strengthening and daily exercise For more information or to schedule an regimens help maintain that progress and contribute appointment, please call (979) 774-0055. to better overall health.” Dr. Story became interested in alternative ELMS ORTHODONTICS Since 1991, Dr. Troy N. Elms has been creating result using your own natural teeth at a fraction of the beautiful lasting smiles for both children and adults in cost of veneers or full mouth restorations. the Brazos Valley. A Diplomate of the American Board Dr. Elms and his staff would like to welcome you of Orthodontics, he is one of only two board certified to visit their office for a consultation. Completed last orthodontists in Bryan/College Station. For that reason, year and located at 1501 Emerald Parkway in College you can be certain that Dr. Elms and his staff will Station, the facility is state of the art and more. The provide you with the highest quality of orthodontic office is conveniently located right on the Highway 6 treatment available. Elms Orthodontics utilizes the Bypass. Elms Orthodontics is committed to providing most advanced treatment techniques including heat- excellent service and quality care in a fun, friendly activated memory wires, self-ligating braces, clear and healthy environment. The office is equipped with (non-staining) braces and smaller braces. All of these the latest technology in digital dental radiography, S photography and orthodontic diagnostics. Part of the enhance the process of helping you achieve the smile that you have always wished for, in the shortest amount fun includes a 14-seat movie theater, game room and of time. chair-side game systems. Recognized as the ONLY Premiere Provider for Elms Orthodontics works to be well recognized Invisalign in Bryan/College Station, Dr. Elms is ranked for excellent service and quality care in a fun, friendly in the top 5 percent of all dental professionals in the and healthy environment. Dr. Elms and his staff United States for his experience with aligner therapy. are committed to success through education, open A growing number of patients have discovered the communication and change. advantages of using these removable and invisible For more information, visit www.drelms.com. To plastic straighteners to accomplish the same goals as schedule an appointment for your child or yourself, traditional braces. Many adults who would otherwise please call (979) 693-6300 or 1-(866) 693-0656. require extensive and expensive cosmetic dentistry have reaped tremendous benefits from aligners. With no metal and no fuss, Invisalign can create a beautiful
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION BRAZOS MEDICAL ASSOCIATES Love…Wisdom…Unity. These three small is currently a member of the American words have provided a foundation for the quality Medical Women’s Association. She is healthcare Brazos Valley residents have come to bilingual in Spanish and English. She is associate with Brazos Medical Associates. married to Dr. Tom Blasingame, a Professor Founded by Drs. Haywood J. Robinson and of Petroleum Engineering at Texas A&M, Noreen Z. Johnson, Brazos Medical Associates and they reside in College Station with has expanded in recent years to include Dr. their two children. Jennifer Blasingame, Dr. Amina N. Alikhan, Amina Naqi Alikhan, Internal and Dr. Elizabeth Suarez. New to the practice, Medicine, is a native of Bryan who Dr. Alice Blount comes to the College Station received her undergraduate and medical Lpractice from Granger, Indiana. degrees from Texas A&M University. She Haywood J. Robinson, M.D., Family completed her residency at Michigan Practice, graduated from the California State University and received her Internal Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Medicine Board Certification in 1996. She Science degree and received his medical degree worked previously at Student health Center from the University of California Irvine. Dr. and University General Internal Medicine Robinson is Board Certified by the American practices in Missouri and in the Baylor Senior Board of Family Practice, is a Clinical Assistant Health Centers in Dallas. She is married and Professor of Family Practice at Texas A&M has three children. University Health Science Center and has Elizabeth Suarez grew up in Newark, presided over Brazos Medical Associates since New Jersey, graduating from Stevens Institute its inception in 1981. He is a member of of Technology with a Bachelors Degree in many professional organizations, including the Mechanical Engineering. She then received Texas Medical Association and the American her medical degree from UMDNJ Robert Academy of Family Physicians. He resides in Wood Johnson Medial School and completed College Station with his wife, Dr. Noreen Z. her residency in Family Medicine at John Johnson and has three daughters. F. Kennedy Medical Center. She went on to Noreen Zenita Johnson, M.D., was born complete a maternity and child fellowship in Trinidad, West Indies, and received both at the University of Southern California and Bachelor of Science and medical degrees from is currently board certified by the American Howard University, Washington, D.C. Her Board of Family Physicians. She is married to medical practice is now limited to Gynecology, her high school sweetheart, Phillip E. Cedeno, although she also practiced Obstetrics in the and has one child. Bryan/College Station area for 23 years. As a Alice Blount, Family Practice/Obstetrics, Board Certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist, the newest member of Brazos Medical Associates, a Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics received her Bachelor of Science degree at the and Gynecology and a Clinical Assistant University of Texas at San Antonio, and her Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Texas medical degree was earned at the University A&M Medical School, she offers the group both of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio experience and expertise. She is trained on the Medical School. She completed Saint Joseph’s DaVinci Robot for surgeons. She is married to Family Medicine Residency Program in South Dr. Haywood J. Robinson. Bend, Indiana. She has two children. Jennifer Johnston Blasingame, M.D., The physicians at Brazos Medical graduated from Texas A&M University with Associates are committed to providing both a Bachelors and Masters Degree of personalized attention to the needs of the Science. She then received her medical degree entire family and unsurpassed service to the from Columbia University in New York and Brazos Valley. For more information about completed her residency at the Baylor College the practice, or to schedule and appointment, of Medicine in Houston. Dr. Blasingame please call (979) 764-4043 or visit our website specializes in Obstetrics and Gynecology and at brazosmedical.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION and closing of the jaw. If your occlusion (bite) is DR. CRAIG SCASTA not right, it can lead to abnormal tension in these muscles- one of the several possible causes of tension The mission of the dental practice of Dr. Craig Scasta type headaches. Over activation of the jaw, head is to provide the patient with the highest quality and neck muscles can lead to pain, tension, spasm of care. This care is supported with state of the art and a chronic pain condition. This condition is a technology and delivered with genuine concern for component of TMD. the welfare of our patients. Using neuromuscular dentistry to correct this Dr. Scasta and his partner, Dr. Robert Hall have condition, the jaw is brought back into a muscularly completed advanced dental training to increase their balanced position through a very sophisticated knowledge and skills in many areas of dentistry. In particular, they have completed advanced training computer analysis. Neuromuscular dentistry is in the scientific field of Neuromuscular Dentistry the art and science of repositioning the lower jaw (NMD). NMD objectively evaluates the complex in relation to the upper jaw at a point in space relationship between the teeth, temporomandibular where the muscles are in their most relaxed and T healthy positions. Thirty years of research with FDA R joints (TMJ) and the masticatory (chewing) muscles. This neuromuscular evaluation is accomplished approval and clinical experience have proven these using advanced equipment and computerized jaw techniques to be effective in treating patients with tracking technology. Dr. Scasta and Hall have on head and neck pain. site a Myomonitor TENS unit and a Myotronics K7 Using these techniques prior to restoring your jaw tracking/EMG measurement computer. mouth with crowns or implants greatly improve the Many patients today experience a multitude longevity of the restorations as well as the natural of symptoms related to the condition commonly teeth. described as “TMD” or temporomandibular joint Dr. Scasta and Dr. Hall will be happy to disorder. TMD is not just pain in your jaw joints explain in simple terms the procedures used to or clicking and popping sounds. Migraine type provide neuromuscular treatment in their office. The headaches, tension headaches and facial and/or neck TENS application and jaw tracking measurements pain can also be related to TMD. Most patients do are a painless procedure that involves only your not realize that the muscles in the temple area of the time. Please call (979) 260-2626 today to make an forehead play an important part in the posturing appointment for your exam and consultation. DR. RICHARD POCURULL Although Rheuamtoid Arthtitis (RA) is a potentially and other medical or surgical specialties as necessary. crippling disease that can even shorten a person’s life Finally, once the therapeutic goals are met, the patients span, treatments are now available (and even more on will be referred back to their primary care doctors for the way) that can halt the progression of the disease and further management and monitoring. This program is even achieve complete remission. This means that most scheduled to start this fall. patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis may lead normal Dr. Ricardo Pocurull, of Arthritis and Osteoporosis or nearly normal lives. The key is to diagnose and treat Clinic of Brazos Valley, is the only independent, board the disease as early as possible, preferably within two certified Rheumatologist in the area. He provides a full months of the beginning of symptoms. range of services for patients with Rheumatic Diseases However, RA may be difficult to diagnose in including Osteoarthritis, Lupus, Gout, Vasculitis, the early stages. (There are over 100 different forms Back Pain, Scleroderma, Osteoporosis, soft tissue A rheumatism, and Fibromyalgia. Dr. Pocurull also keeps D of arthritis.) As a result, treatment may be delayed for months or even years. One strategy geared toward a website with general information, updates, and links identifying these patients with early RA involves as well as a blog where he addresses current issues in the establishing Early Arthritis Referral Clinics (EACs) field. Online patient-doctor communication is available which are currently being used successfully in many as well as patient-nurse or patient-staff communication centers of excellence across the United States and via e-mail. Our staff is courteous, professional, caring Europe and will soon be available in the Brazos Valley. and dedicated. You may find out more at Aocbv.com. Patients are seen every one or two weeks until To make an appointment, please call (979) 696-8000. therapeutic goals are met. This assertive strategy Dr. Pocurull’s office is located at 1721 Birmingham allows patients to have prompt pain relief and return Drive, Suite 204 in College Station. to work and other activities in a timely fashion. It also helps reduce stress and uncertainty that may be caused by delays in diagnosis. Each case will be managed in coordination with a primary care doctor
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Dr. Todd A. Maraist Respect, courtesy and compassionate care are key atmosphere and overall quality of life. elements of the College Station practice that Dr. At his College Station practice, Dr. Maraist Todd Maraist has built. Dr. Maraist has a simple evaluates and treats many conditions including philosophy that the entire staff believes in, “caring for seizures, sleep disorders, spinal disease, back people as we would want to be cared for ourselves.” and neck pain as well as movement and nerve In fact, Dr. Maraist’s choice to become a disorders. Dr. Maraist sees patients with Carpal neurologist was made in partdue to his work with Tunnel Syndrome, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s Parkinson’s patients, whose personalities and positive Disease and Alzheimer’s Disease. Intensive headache attitudes he enjoyed being around. “After that,” management and spinal pain evaluations are also states Dr. Maraist, “I knew I had found my niche.” offered. The field of neurology involves finding Dr. Maraist utilizes older, “tried and true” Rneurological problems through diagnostic approaches within his specialties, but also evaluations. As a Board Certified Neurologist, Dr. incorporates the best new technology the field has Maraist was oftentimes frustrated with only having to offer into his practice. Dr. Maraist was the first medication to offer patients in chronic pain. With physician in the Bryan-College Station area to utilize Board Certification in Pain Management, Dr. Maraist the Vagal Nerve Stimulator Implantation procedure, now gains satisfaction in seeing patients’ condition a landmark treatment of epilepsy after failed medical improve dramatically through the use of treatment treatment. regimens that cannot be performed without the “It’s rewarding,” says Dr Maraist, “to work in certification. areas where so much improvement in the patient’s Dr. Maraist began his training at a San Antonio condition can be made to improve quality of life.” medical school before returning to his hometown Dr. Maraist’s office is located at 1105 University of Beaumont to become part of a group practice in Drive E., Suite 100 in College Station. For more the area. After six years at the practice, Dr. Maraist information, or to schedule an appointment, please and his family decided to move to Bryan-College call (979) 846-4100. Station because of its school system, family oriented DR. WILLIAM MARR Dr. William Marr is proud to offer the latest in problems of this type.” multifocal lens technology for the correction of Dr. Marr has been in practice for over 22 years cataracts. Cataracts often affect those in their 60s or in the Brazos Valley. He received his undergraduate older. Those affected by the condition have blurry degree at Texas A&M University, and completed or dark vision due to the natural discoloration of his medical education at the University of Texas the eye’s lens due to aging, and if left untreated, Medical School at San Antonio. His internship in cataracts can lead to blindness. The only treatment Categorical Internal Medicine and his residency in available is a surgical procedure involving lens Ophthalmology were completed at Scott & White implants, a common procedure that has been in use Memorial Hospital in Temple. Dr. Marr is a member for 30 years. of the Texas Medical Association as well as the The lens implant procedure can usually be Texas Ophthalmologic Association and the Brazos- completed by Dr. Marr in 10 to 15 minutes, and Robertson County Medical Society. He is an active D fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology vision is restored quickly in most cases. Vision usually continues to improve in the weeks following and holds an appointment on staff at Texas A&M the procedure. The ReZoom™ Multifocal lens, Health Science Center. offered at Marr Eye Center, is a clear, foldable Symptoms of cataracts include one or more of implant made of an acrylic material that is highly the following: difficulty reading, difficulty seeing refractive. It has uniquely proportioned visual zones close objects, difficulty seeing to drive, especially at that provide it with its major advantage, full range night, changing glasses prescriptions and needing vision due to multiple focal points. Most people can bifocals. Not all patients are good candidates for see well anywhere, including near, mid-range or far multifocal lens implant technology. An examination away. at Marr Eye Center can help determine if you are a Dr. Marr explains the importance of the new potential candidate for this exciting technology. technology, “About 92% of those who received the To learn more about vision improvement and technology in the ReZoom™ Multifocal lens reported increasing your quality of life, contact Dr. Marr’s wearing glasses either ‘never’ or ‘occasionally,’ quite office at (979) 776-7564. an exciting prospect for those experiencing vision
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Dr. Scott Wenger Scott Wenger says that his interest in orthopaedics while maintaining a general orthopaedic practice started after fracturing his femur while playing at College Station Orthopaedics (1602 Rock Prairie high school football in Corpus Christi. During his Road, Ste 460). treatment, he befriended his surgeon, even shadowing Wenger, who moved here with his family in the surgeon during office visits and watching him 2004, enjoys the college-town atmosphere. “We perform surgery. “After that experience, I was have loved every minute of it,” he says. Patients hooked,” says Wenger, who did his undergraduate have loved Dr. Wenger’s dedication to his field. As work at Southern Methodist University. he says, “I maintain an active interest in the fields Building on his love of sports, he decided of orthopaedic and sports medicine both in practice during his Orthopaedic surgery residency at the as well as continuing medical education activities University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in in order to enhance my knowledge and expand my SDallas, Texas to specialize in sports medicine. skills and services.” D Wenger then studied with the renowned Dr. He treats injuries in children, joint pain Frank Jobe during a sports medicine fellowship at in adults, as well as sports injuries at all levels of the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic in Los Angeles competition. “It is my goal to restore the fullest where he worked with professional and collegiate possible functionality to my patients, and most athletes. sports injuries can be improved without surgery,” he “During this fellowship I learned techniques to says. assist athletes in recovering from injury at the time At College Station Orthopaedics, Dr. Wenger of injury in the field, at the time of surgery in the and his staff strive “to provide you with the answers operating room, and during rehabilitation,” says and care options to meet your needs.” For more Wenger. information about their extraordinary level of skill Dr. Wenger is Board Certified by the American and service, call them at (979) 696-3344 or visit Board of Orthopaedic Surgery. www.collegestationortho.com. Wenger specializes in sports medicine and arthroscopic surgery of the knee and shoulder Dr. William Whiteley Dr. William Whiteley, M.D., served as a combat Dr. Whiteley brings his twenty year’s experience surgeon in the United States Air Force during the in Orthopaedic surgery, with a specialty in total joint Vietnam War. His background has also included arthroplasty, arthroscopy of the knee and shoulder as working in major trauma centers and in private well as sports medicine, to work for residents of the practice in California. For the past five years, he has Brazos Valley. practiced at College Station Orthopaedics (1602 He holds degrees in both Chemistry and Rock Prairie Rd., Suite 460). He brings wisdom and Zoology from the University of Arizona and received perspective from these varied medical experiences. his M.D. degree from Indiana University Medical In today’s active society, there is a strong need School. He completed his internship and orthopedic for a skilled Orthopaedic surgeon like Dr. Whiteley residency at the University of Southern California as more Americans suffer sports or activity-related D Medical Center in Los Angeles, CA. He is also a injuries. Whether you play on a softball team, diplomat of the American board of Orthopedic belong to a bowling league or swim laps at the Surgery and a Fellow in the American Academy of gym, orthopaedic injury can get in the way of your Orthopedic Surgeons. participation. “Americans continue to become athletic earlier in life and stay active well into their College Station Orthopaedics is committed later years, which means an increased risk of injury,” to quality care in Bryan-College Station, with says Dr. Whiteley. Playing with injuries can cause community wellness in mind. Dr. Whiteley and permanent damage. It is better to take care of these his partners have made a commitment to ongoing injuries before they curtail your ability to do the medical education, so as to offer the finest skills and things you love. services possible. “Whether a serious athlete or weekend warrior, To benefit from Dr. Whiteley’s considerable individuals of all ages can suffer from persistent talents and expertise, or for more information or musculo-skeletal pain and should consider and orthopaedic injuries and conditions, contact College investigate these orthopedic conditions which can Station Orthopaedics at (979) 696-3344. frequently be treated successfully,” he says.
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Dr. Andrew Hansen During the seven years spent on the board of town to take a vein from the leg for a conduit the Texas A&M Association of Former students, with a scope in surgery. He uses the scope including a stint as president in 1990, and through an incision in the knee to perform during another seven years he spent serving endovein harvesting. “It’s less painful, and there on the Texas A&M Foundation, H. Andrew is less chance of infection,” says Dr. Hansen, Hansen II visited College Station frequently, to who has done over 300 of these procedures in say the least. his career. Endovein harvesting significantly After serving in the Corps of Cadets and reduces pain and leg swelling “so the patients Dgraduating from Texas A&M in 1971, Dr. can ambulate more quickly.” Dr. Hansen Hansen attended medical school at Texas Tech says that post-operative heart patients often University. He even trained under Michael complain more of leg discomfort than the chest DeBakey, the pioneering Texas heart surgeon, at incision. This minimally invasive procedure Baylor, and completed additional cardiovascular makes recovery a quicker process. surgery training in Atlanta, but always enjoyed “With such an educated lay public “seeing what was happening” in Aggieland. “I nowadays,” Dr. Hansen sees patients “driving” wanted to retire here,” he says with a chuckle. these improved procedures and uses of Finally, this year, at his wife Kathy’s urging, technology, such as EVH. “It’s what patients he relocated his five children, wife and practice want and what we want,” and ultimately, these to College Station. After a number of visits technologies help patients to return to normal with local administrators and cardiologists, Dr. life “as fast as possible,” he says. Hansen was excited to realize that he shared Dr. Hansen also performs minimally “the same vision about what the future is for invasive surgery for atrial fibrillation with the medicine” with Thomas Jackson, CEO of The daVinci robot; this new method means “we Med. don’t have to open their sternum” for patients That future includes robots. Dr. Hansen who meet the criteria, and those patients can had been doing robot-assisted surgery in expect enjoy about an 80-90% cure rate post- Lubbock, and was excited about the Med’s surgery of intermittent atrial fibrillation.. purchase of the da Vinci S Surgical System. For Dr. Hansen, opening a practice in “I’d been fortunate up there to do cutting edge College Station is like coming home. After technology in the last few years,” he says. The dreaming of returning to this community in opportunity to perform that same kind of high retirement, he’s pleased to be able to contribute tech surgery in College Station “seemed like his medical expertise now. His decision to “come the perfect fit.” here and be part of it and contribute right now” Dr. Hansen, who was recently named a means retirement is nowhere in sight, but Dr. Texas Superior Doctor in Cardiac Surgery by Hansen looks to the example Dr. DeBakey, who Texas Monthly, brings with him a vision that has yet to fully retire. “He’s still lecturing and is breathtaking in its possibilities. He looks doing all kinds of innovating things” well in forward to a day when open-heart surgery is his 90s, says Hansen admiringly. so minimally invasive that it is treated as an Dr. Hansen looks forward to what the outpatient procedure. “The technology is future decades will bring for heart patients in constantly evolving, and we can do things this community. For a chance to benefit from better and better in the future,” he says with Dr. Hansen’s extraordinary experience, call his excitement. office at (979) 764-5700. Dr. Hansen is also excited to be the first in
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Dr. Gerald Garwood
Dr. Gerald Garwood says that in today’s medical as complements to the lap band treatment. Dr. world there is little difference between an M.D. Garwood’s and Dr. Benavides’ approach has been and a D.O. However, the doctor of osteopathy, successful: “ We are proud of the favorable results which Dr. Garwood is, also has specialty training achieved after 4000 successfully completed surgical in kinesiology, or the application of structure and cases and over 7000 weight loss cases as well”, function to disease. says Dr. Garwood proudly. “I think we’ve brought The history of osteopathy is an interesting one; something to the forefront.” during a flu epidemic in the 1930s, osteopaths were His focus at College Station Internal Medicine able to do manipulative therapy on patients with (1602 Rock Prairie Rd, Ste. #2000) pneumonia, with great results. Now this commonly is Bariatrics and morbid obesity care as well as used treatment is called respiratory therapy. internal adult medicine. SDr. Garwood attended medical school at the Coming to the Brazos Valley from Houston ten R University of medicine and biosciences of Kansas years ago to help run a practice was an exciting step City. Graduating in 1969. He chose to study on that journey. He enjoys “the Texas flavor”, and osteopathy after meeting an influential osteopath believes there are many great things taking place in surgeon. It was just the first step on his medical Bryan/College Station. This is “a community that journey, which includes stints practicing in Kansas looks forward, not behind,” he says. Dr. Garwood also teaches medicine at Texas a&M as well, which City and Houston. “always provides fresh challenges”. In 2001 he took another step on his medical Dr. Garwood’s philosophy is to be “honest and journey after learning about a new approach to straightforward.” He treats all patients with respect. treating morbid obesity: a lap band with FDA As he says, “We regard their health with a great deal approval. Dr. Garwood and Dr. Richard Benavides of dignity and hope to help anyone who comes here were chosen by the company and the FDA to pioneer with their struggles.” To find out if Dr. Garwood can the approach in Texas. help you, call his office at (979) 485-0395 for more They also developed nutritional supplements information. that have become very influential and widely used Dr. Rohini Ragupathi Dr. Rohini Ragupathi is modest about her medical students are sub-specializing but that “with accomplishments, but does attribute success to an aging population,” patients still need this kind “mostly old-fashioned medicine.” In her practice of doctor. she takes the time to “sit and talk with the patient, Dr. Ragupathi provides care to many geriatric and not rush them.” This very human approach to patients in this community, even going to local practicing medicine benefits her patients greatly, nursing homes for medical appointments. Her who range in age from 18-100 plus. concern for these vulnerable patients highlights the Dr. Ragupathi attended Stanley Medical compassion that makes her such a good doctor. She College in Chennai, India and completed her internal offers them, in addition to her medical knowledge, medicine residency at the well-regarded Bronx- a listening ear and a chance to have questions DLebanon hospital in New York City. She has been answered. I in the Brazos Valley for twenty years, however, and “Older patients take time,” she says. “We give now practices at College Station Internal Medicine them the time that they need.” As the primary-care Center (1602E Rock Prairie Rd, Ste. 2400). It physician of some of these older patients, she reviews took only one night visiting in College Station to all their medications, counseling them to avoid the convince her and her husband that the Texas climate possibility of drug interactions. She helps many was more tolerable than the cold weather in New patients understand and maintain a better quality York, she laughs. of life. Dr. Ragupathi enjoys practicing general adult Dr. Ragupathi’s practice offers this old- medicine, even the challenge of having to treat nearly fashioned, and much-needed, kind of medicine to all any kind of medical problem. The broad range of its patients. To schedule a visit, contact (979) 693- ailments and patients might seem overwhelming, 1795 for more information. but she takes care of each patient individually. She notes that it is becoming more difficult to find an internal medicine specialist, because many
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Dr. Robert Levinthal Robert Levinthal, M.D., F.A.C.S. of College Station without surgery, if possible. When and if surgery is Neurosurgery (1602 Rock Prairie Rd.), is a multi- necessary, he always seeks “the most appropriate and talented micro-neurosurgeon who was one of the first safest procedure available.” Patients can be assured “in Texas to utilize image-guided navigation.” that he will explore all appropriate options with His training and credentials are impressive: them. medical school at University of Texas Health Chronic back and leg pain caused by nerve Science Center at San Antonio; Board Certified in compression and/or instability in the lumbar region Neurosurgery; Member of the American Association of the spine, is treated with non-surgical treatment. of Neurologic Surgeons, the Congress of Neurologic “This system preserves the patient’s spinal mobility Surgeons, and the North American Spine Society. and potentially allows for a shorter hospital stay,” he And to top it off, he’s an assistant clinical professor said. R In his practice, Dr. Levinthal prides himself at the Texas A&M medical school, sharing this knowledge with medical students. on open interactions with patients. “We advocate For Dr. Levinthal, it was the intellectual education and communication with our patients to excitement and technical challenges of the field that achieve optimal results,” he says. To benefit from brought him to the specialty of neurosurgery. Being this approach, call Dr. Levinthal’s office at (979) able to help those in pain is particularly satisfying. 696-2422 for more information. He understands well how debilitating spinal problems can be, and has extensive experience with the full spectrum of neurosurgical techniques, such as pedicle screw fusion, cervical and lumbar cages and other protocols. Dr. Levinthal understands what his patients want: “Most just want to get well.” His goal is to treat patients successfully and
Dr. John Lee Cochran It was John Lee Cochran’s own bout with testicular to continuing education is admirable. In 2006, he cancer at age 20 that nudged him toward a specialty completed training of urologic applications of the in urology once he was in medical school. “It got Med’s new DaVinci Robot to better help his surgical me interested,” he says with a smile. Though he patients. considered other specialties, it was urology he He enjoys that urology is “a diverse specialty” decided to pursue. involving varied medical treatments and surgeries. “One of the things I like is that I take care of His practice treats kidney problems, incontinence, both genders from birth to death,” says Dr. Cochran. stones, cancer and other urological problems. He is His practice treats a wide variety of ages as well. trained in minimally invasive surgical techniques He can work with anyone from a female child to a and performs many procedures in his office. I90-year-old man and “everybody in between” at his He credits his success to his desire to practice, College Station Urology (1602 Rock Prairie communicate effectively with that wide variety of Road, Ste # 270). patients, “empathizing with them, trying to put Dr. Cochran attended Rice University as an myself in the situation that they are in.” For Dr. undergraduate, and then studied at the University of Cochran, his desire to be honest with patients stems Oklahoma College of Medicine, graduating in 1978. from deep spiritual beliefs. “I hope I’ll never have to His completed a residency in general surgery at the stand before God and explain how I used the gift he University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, gave me,” he says. “That’s my goal in life.” then went on to a urology residency at the University To see what Dr. Cochran can do for you, call his of Kansas Sciences Center, serving as chief resident office at (979) 696-5505 to make an appointment. during his last year there. Dr. Cochran, a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, is board certified in urology, and frequently trains in new technologies, staying on the cutting edge of his profession. His commitment
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Dr. David Berzon
The best care possible is the standard set by Dr. Austin, San Antonio or Houston to see a specialist. David Berzon in treatment of his patients. With a He is proud that pulmonary critical care is now pulmonary, critical care and sleep medicine specialty, offered in his practice so that residents of Bryan/ he can treat respiratory and critical care problems. College Station do not need to drive to a larger city He finds this pulmonary critical care specialty to receive top-notch care. very exciting and life-changing for many in his care. Patients in Dr. Berzon’s care can trust in his “I have the opportunity to save people’s lives,” he integrity. “I always try to do the best I can for the says, while acknowledging the difficulty in treating patients, and then I can sleep at night knowing that many of these chronic conditions. As he says, I have given my best effort to deliver the best care “Medicine is humbling.” possible.” TDr. Berzon attended medical school at Ohio Currently, Dr. Berzon offers a sleep lab as part D of his practice, to work with those suffering from State University and completed a fellowship at Johns sleep apnea. He is working hard to develop the lab, Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland. His and plans in the future to offer an expanded sleep extensive training in several sub-areas of pulmonary clinic. care gives him knowledge of many “different In our hurried age, Dr. Berzon is known for avenues for medical care”. He treats those who have his courtesy. Patients at his College Station Medical asthma, emphysema, and lung cancer, as well as Center Office will appreciate the respect extended to other pulmonary conditions, doing both in-patient them by Dr. Berzon and his staff. Call (979) 694- hospital work and out-patient treatments. 1300 to make an appointment. In the nearly three years he has practiced in the Brazos Valley, he has been impressed with caliber of patients here. They want to know what they need to do to get better. In the past, a patient with a lung or respiratory problem might have had to travel to Dr. Joseph Roman Dr. Joseph Roman discovered his professional calling year as the chief medicine resident, a prestigious while in medical school. responsibility that meant he supervised the other He found that he thoroughly enjoyed working seventy-four residents working at the hospital. “It with adults and appreciated the range of sub- was a great honor to be the chief resident,” says specialties possible within the study of internal Dr. Roman, now in his first month as partner with medicine. He appreciates the type of people who see Dr. Philip Alexander of College Station Internal him and is positively challenged by the variety of Medicine (1605 Rock Prairie, Ste. #300). ailments by which they suffer, from routine coughs Now that he is establishing a practice in and colds to more complex chronic illnesses like College Station, he enjoys the friendliness of the hypertension, diabetes, and thyroid disorders. Dr. community and the pull of family who live nearby. DRoman also brings an understanding of wellness “It’s wonderful to work here,” he says. D (disease prevention and promotion of health), men’s Dr. Roman makes a concerted effort to provide and women’s health, substance abuse, and mental “options in medical management”, but wants the health. patient to be “the ultimate decision maker”. His Dr. Roman feels that he can really put his patients know that he is the kind of physician who medical training to good use for the patients in his discusses care options with you, so you have the care. “We run the gamut,” he says proudly. “It’s best treatment possible. He really loves his job as a easier to say who I don’t see,” he says with a laugh. physician for adult men and women, and it shows. “Pediatrics and pregnant women.” Everyone else can To make an appointment with Dr. Roman, call (979) benefit from his care. 764-1111. Dr. Joseph Roman graduated from Texas A&M in 1997 and Texas Tech University Medical School in 2003. He completed his residency at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, in Oklahoma City, and stayed on at the medical center an extra
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Dr. Bruce Hoak Dr. Bruce Hoak is a general surgeon in solo says. “That’s very satisfying.” practice in College Station (1605 Rock Prairie Rd, He is often the physician who has to break Ste. # 100), Dr. Hoak decided to pursue this General the news of a cancer diagnosis, since he regularly Surgery specialty after a six-week surgery rotation in performs biopsies and removes tumors. This kind of medical school. A general surgeon must be skilled in task is very difficult, of course, but Dr. Hoak conveys numerous procedures to meet the needs of a broad compassion and commitment to the patient. range of patients. One of the things that makes him an effective If that sounds like a tall order, Dr. Hoak isn’t surgeon is that despite the complicated procedures intimidated. Dr. Hoak did his undergraduate work he is called on to perform, he also practices good old- at Texas A&M, then attended medical school at the fashioned medicine. “Nothing flashy,” he says with a DUniversity of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in smile. “I do enjoy making people feel better.” He also enjoys the caliber of patients here in Dallas. His surgery training was completed at West the Brazos Valley. “They are very intelligent and Virginia University in Charleston, West Virginia. easy to work with,” he says. He appreciates how He performs a variety of surgical procedures on well-informed they are when coming to him. “It’s a regular basis, some fifty a month, working on gall refreshing.” bladders, hernias and abdominal surgeries, among To put Dr. Hoak’s wisdom and experience to other things. He also does surgery on breast and work for you, call his office at (979) 695-8365 for colon and skin cancers and accident trauma victims. additional information. The wide variety of procedures keeps it interesting. Dr. Hoak thinks that one of his greatest strengths is how much he likes his job. “I just really enjoy doing it,” he says with enthusiasm. In general surgery, he is often able to fix the medical problem completely. “We take care of it and they’re better,” he Dr. Ibrahim EL Nihum Dr. Ibrahim El Nihum, M.D., F.A.C.S, says, “I Dr. El Nihum’s presence in our community means was always fascinated by the brain, spinal cord, the those services are available here. As well, he is very peripheral nerves and their anatomy and function.” “interested in promoting and expanding this service This fascination with the brain led Dr. Nihum to to the children of Bryan/College Station and in the specialize in neurosurgery, he is interested in helping surrounding areas.” and treating patients with complex central and The level of training Dr. Nihum has completed peripheral nervous system diseases.” is impressive and reassuring. In addition to a general Dr. El Nihum relocated to Bryan/College Station surgery residency completed in Cleveland, Ohio, two years ago after working as a staff neurosurgeon at Dr. El Nihum performed a pediatric neurosurgery the Scott and White Hospital in Temple, Texas for fellowship at the University of Texas Southwestern Dthirteen years. He has enjoyed his practice at College Medical Center in Dallas. His neurosurgical Station Neurosurgery (1602 Rock Prairie Rd, Ste. trauma and neurosurgical intensive care fellowship 4400). “It is a good feeling to be part of this great took place at the University of California Medical medical community,” he says. Center, and he went to Halifax, Nova Scotia for his It is Dr. El Nihum’s goal “to provide an Neurosurgical residency. excellent neurosurgical care with honesty and Highly specialized and professional care is respect, and to consider every patient as one of my available in our community. To receive this care from family members.” Dr. El Nihum and benefit from his “compassion and During his time here, he has introduced to the hard work”, call his office at (979) 696-2422 for Brazos Valley the “percutanoeus balloon compression more information. for the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia, or severe facial pain.” Dr. El Nihum is also the only sub- specialty trained pediatric neurosurgeon in the area. Previously, children might have had to travel to a larger urban area to receive neurological procedures.
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Dr. Adel Massoud College Station was calling, or at least Texas Women, however, are better than men at seeking A&M University was. When the daughter of Dr. preventive measures. Men should follow their Adel Massoud was accepted into the university in example to not only strive for health maintenance, 1998, he decided to move the family to the Brazos but disease prevention.” Valley in order to be near her. He began his residency Food and exercise continue to be the two most in this area through the Brazos Valley Family Practice important factors in living healthy lives. The biggest Residency Program. He enjoyed the small town challenge for most people is sticking to lifestyle atmosphere and friendly surroundings. changes in order to become healthier. College Station was quite a change. Dr. Massoud The media and access to the internet continue to had practiced medicine in Cairo, Egypt from 1980 increase the knowledge base of most Americans, and Cuntil 1995. He had done an internship and residency healthcare is no exception. Dr. Massoud stresses the D importance of seeing a doctor when a problem occurs, there in General Surgery, receiving a degree in rather than initially consulting the worldwide web. General and Plastic Surgery. “Patients who look up information first tend Now at College Station Family Medicine Center, to have a ‘fear factor’ from gathering too much his strengths in surgical procedures come in handy, as information and from viewing worst-case scenarios,” do his years of management experience. But patient explains Dr. Massoud. “The internet is great once a interaction is his real passion. Dr. Massoud thrives doctor has diagnosed your condition. It allows you to on the relationships he establishes with his patients. become more educated about things that can improve He loves kids, and especially enjoys preventive the condition as well as your quality of life.” medicine. To find out how to improve the quality of your “In adults, preventive medicine is especially life, or to make an appointment, please call (979) important,” explains Dr. Massoud. “When you’re 693-2586 or visit www.csfammed.com for more dealing with cancer and other chronic conditions, information. any advantage we can get over the disease is a plus. Dr. Lacrecia Foster To nurture and educate, to listen and care. Lacrecia Her approachable, caring nature is obvious, and Foster, D.O., doesn’t take her vocation lightly. She she has chosen her work in the medical field to fulfill knows the responsibility a family practice physician the goals she has set in her life. Spending time caring has to patients, and strives each day to be helpful to for others at College Station Family Medicine, as well those that seek her advice and care. as through work with Odyssey Hospice, Dr. Foster “Family medicine is rewarding for me,” explains constantly gives her time and talent to others. Dr. Foster, “because I get to see all stages of life from She points out that today’s patient faces many birth to adulthood to the golden years of life. There health challenges, including stress management, is really so much to treasure and learn through each nutritional issues and situations that arise from and every step of life’s journey” personal choices. Lack of exercise, poor eating habits THer journey began fresh out of high school when and a greater sense of sexual freedom can oftentimes D Dr. Foster entered an LPN program, Oklahoma’s open the door to many health problems. counterpart to the LVN program in Texas, in order to “Education of patients becomes a key factor in pay for college and to save up enough money to go to helping them become healthier and happier,” says medical school. She continued nursing through two Dr. Foster. “An open dialogue is essential.” complete years of medical school, finally receiving To experience Dr. Foster’s compassionate her Doctor of Osteopathy degree in 1993. approach to healthcare, call (979) 693-2586 or find Today, Dr. Foster especially enjoys working out more at www.csfammed.com. with women and children at College Station Family Medicine, and she feels a special bond develop when she helps a mother or child through a difficult part of their lives. Her years of nursing have helped her become more attentive to the needs of patients, and she tries to interact with patients realizing they are individuals with their own unique set of ideas.
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Dr. Patricia Sammarelli Dr. Patricia Sammarelli has always loved to take obviously be much different than those of college care of people. It’s easy to understand, then, why she students and mature adults. Dr. Sammarelli tries to chose to become a family practice physician. help her patients focus on health issues they might Her education began at the University of have. Rome, Italy, and extensive training in Albuquerque, The staggering truth is that more and more New Mexico. Her knowledge base has been an asset Americans, including residents of the Brazos Valley, at College Station Family Medicine Clinic, where are experiencing health problems associated with she has practiced for three years. She began work obesity. According to Dr. Sammarelli, parents should in Obstetrics and Family Medicine, but now only be role models, encouraging kids to take walks, drink works in the latter in order to focus her efforts on water and make healthy food choices. her patients without interruption. Women’s and For more information, or to reclaim your D health, call (979) 693-2586. You can also visit www. children’s health issues are of special interest to Dr. Sammarelli, especially preventative medicine. csfammed.com. Patients of different ages obviously have different concerns. Concerns of teenagers will
Dr. Adil Nicolwala Dr. Adil Nicolwala’s approach to family medicine can Dr. Nicolwala has plenty of experience in patient be stated simply—strive to live in synch with nature. care. He practiced medicine in England for over 20 Nutrition, an active lifestyle and reduced stress levels years before coming to the United States ten years can promote greater health benefits than the more ago. He’s seen many changes, including increasing commonplace alternatives to these healthy choices. expectations of patients due to modern developments It’s important for the physician and the patient in the medical industry. He says so many patients to be on the same page as well. Getting to know his want a panacea for what ails them, an easy solution patients at College Station Family Medicine Clinic to their health problems. In reality, so many patients by experiencing their triumphs and suffering with fail to see the common equation. Proper diet plus them is fulfilling for Dr. Nicolwala. He explains this exercise equals healthier people. Dspecial bond, “When medicine becomes personal is “We need to think about what we ingest every when the doctor and patient are working together. day,” says Dr. Nicolwala. “Food products with additives, preservatives and alikes are all counter For Dr. Nicolwala, a big advantage of family intuitive to the normal flow of good energy. Our medicine is seeing patients of different ages and a bodies cannot function in an optimum fashion when broad spectrum of health conditions. He looks at we continue to pollute them.” medicine is an art, not a business, and he’s quick So, at the next trip to the grocery store, try fresh to point out that sometimes change is not always food instead of fast food, fruits and vegetables instead good. “There is a greater emphasis today on the art of of desserts and water instead of soft drinks. It really technology,” says Dr. Nicolwala. “The current trend will promote a healthier you. is geared towards procedures. There’s inadequate face- For more information about smart health to-face time, and not enough focus on preventative choices, please call Dr. Nicolwala at (979) 693-2586 care. The biggest challenge for modern medicine is or visit www.csfammed.com. to begin focusing more on the art of medicine and caring for people from the heart.”
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION healthalert by the Texas Medical Association panel join other national health experts in person over the age of four to get the second recommending a second shot of vaccine to shot of chickenpox vaccine. As recently as prevent the potentially deadly disease. a decade ago, many children suffered from “A two-dose series will be more effective lesions, itchiness, missed school days and than one and will reduce the number of in some cases, even death from chickenpox. breakthrough infections,” says Ari Brown, According to the CDC, more than 1,000 MD, a leading member of TMA’s Be Texans endured serious cases each year prior Wise – Immunize program. Breakthrough to the introduction of the vaccine. infections occur when the patient is partially “People have the perception that protected but not enough to prevent a mild chickenpox is not a serious disease because case of the disease from occurring. most adults remember having it as a kid,” The Advisory Committee on Immunization adds Dr. Brown. “But I had the unfortunate Practices (ACIP) and Centers for Disease experience of caring for an unvaccinated Control and Prevention (CDC) are now child in the early 1990s who died from it. recommending a second chickenpox, or It’s a disease I don’t want any of my own varicella, vaccination primarily for children children or patients to ever get.” four to six years old. However, they also Patients should double check their suggest adolescents, adults, and HIV- childhood immunization record and talk to infected children receive a second shot. For their physician if they have any questions. the past 11 years, one chickenpox vaccination In 2004, TMA launched the Be Wise — was the recommendation. Physicians suggest Immunize public health program in an effort children between the ages of four and six to increase Texas’ childhood immunization One’s Not Enough: receive the second shot at least three months rates and to educate parents and guardians Second Chickenpox Shot after receiving the first. People over the age that immunizations are important, effective Now Recommended of six can catch up by receiving the second and safe. TMA is the largest state medical shot anytime. society in the nation, representing more physicians of the Texas Medical “I have always viewed the vaccine as a win- than 41,000 physician and medical student The Association (TMA) want parents to win: Either you are completely protected members. It is located in Austin and has 120 know that one chickenpox vaccination may not or you get a milder case than you would if component county medical societies around be enough to protect their child. Physicians you were not vaccinated,” says Dr. Brown, the state. TMA’s key objective since 1853 is from TMA’s Be Wise – Immunize advisory an Austin pediatrician. She urges every to improve the health of all Texans. i
August 2007/Insite 33 hometownhealth compiled by the Texas A&M Health Science Center staff Mouthguards help program at HSC-BCD. “It is important to extended wear. The safest use of any contact protect teeth note that a mouthguard requirement in these lens is daily wear only.” sports could significantly reduce the severity Always wash your hands before handling ach year, more than two million teeth of contact injuries to the mouth.” lenses (do not use cream soaps), and carefully Eare knocked out in sports-related and regularly clean the lenses as directed by injuries, according to the American Dental Simple steps can your optometrist. Store lenses in the proper Association. Accidents can happen during prevent contact lens storage case, and replace the case every three any physical activity, even non-contact sports problems months. Also, use only products recommended such as skateboarding and cycling. Using a by your optometrist to clean and disinfect ore than 30 million Americans wear mouthguard can help prevent broken teeth lenses, with only fresh solution used to clean contact lenses, reports the Contact Lens and injuries to the lip, tongue, face or jaw. M and store them (never tap water or homemade Dentists at the Texas A&M Health Institute, and they continue to grow in saline solutions). Always replace old contacts Science Center Baylor College of Dentistry popularity. But, their ease of use doesn’t mean say properly fitted mouth protectors can people should be negligent in their care nor when you get a new contact prescription, and cushion a blow to the face, limiting the risk stay alert for potentially harmful products. do not use disposable soft contact lenses longer The MSC Bookstore Continual contact lens wear sometimes than recommended by the manufacturer. of trauma. They add mouthguards should fit comfortably in the mouth without restricting can cause corneal ulcers or infections. “Never sleep in your contact lenses, normal functions like talking and breathing. According to Samuel Fulcher, M.D., assistant regardless of make or manufacturer,” Dr. People with orthodontic braces or fixed professor of surgery at the Texas A&M Health Fulcher said. “The only solution that should bridge work are especially vulnerable to soft Science Center College of Medicine, clean and come in contact with the lens is the appropriate tissue injuries during physical activity. Mouth safe handling of contact lenses is critical to commercial solution. Contacts should not be protectors can serve as a barrier between the protecting your sight. worn during water sports, and it is best not to mouth and dental work, helping to minimize “Safe handling of the contact lens is shower in them, either.” important because this is the best way to damage to the soft tissue of the mouth and Health officials stress that contact lens fixed bridges. minimize and reduce the risk of serious users should be aware of any potential vision “Although mouthguards are mandated sight-threatening infections of the cornea, for adolescents in sports such as football and which is the No. 1 risk of contact lens wear,” problems and alert their optometrist as they wrestling, there are no such mandates for other said Dr. Fulcher, director of the Division occur. Symptoms include sudden blurred or sports in which contact and/or collisions can of Corneal and External Disease at Scott & fuzzy vision, red and irritated eyes lasting an take place, such as basketball and soccer,” said White in Temple, Texas. “Overnight wear unusually long time, pain in and around the Dr. Reginald Taylor, director and associate of a contact lens markedly increases the risk eyes, increased light sensitivity, and excessive professor of the predoctoral orthodontics of infection, even for lenses ‘approved’ for eye tearing. i
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34 Insite/August 2007 Dr. Richard E. Herron Dr. Richard Herron knew early in life that he wanted people to take charge of their health. Many modern to become a doctor. His childhood aspirations were medical advances have also allowed people to have a fueled by interactions with his next door neighbor, a greater quality of life than ever. In the Brazos Valley, great role model and family practice doctor. Although this is coupled with the close proximity of Texas times have changed since then, the concept of family A&M University and the wealth of knowledge it practice medicine remains the same, a total health provides. approach to overall wellness. “People today know, listen and read about Striving for a complete approach to healthcare health, diet, exercise,” says Dr. Herron. “Sometimes is the goal of the family practice physician, and the problem is they don’t make the time to do Dr. Herron is no exception. His areas of interest anything about it. They need to make the time range from diabetes to hypertension to cholesterol, to take care of themselves.” Dr. Herron suggests D creating down time to reduce stress. Relax, meditate, common health problems that many Americans struggle with today. Although the conditions can read, pray--whatever it takes to soothe you. be life threatening, they are very manageable with Despite the challenges, rewards come daily to proper diet, exercise and common sense. Dr. Herron, who fondly refers to his patients as his “One of the challenges as a physician is to extended family. “It’s exciting to see children and educate the public,” explains Dr. Herron, “but they families grow and fulfilling to help them through don’t have to do it alone. I think of it as a partnership problems they may encounter in life,” states Dr. in which the patient and I address their issues and Herron. concerns together.” To benefit from Dr. Herron’s years of experience Dr. Herron, a doctor at College Station Family in the holistic approach to medicine, call his office at Medicine Center, is quick to point out that today’s (979) 693-2586 or visit www.csfammed.com. patient is much more educated than in past years. The media, as well as internet access, has empowered
Dr. Gary Lambert Dr. Gary Lambert, the son of a family practice vaccine and vaccines for chicken pox, meningitis and physician, was raised in Galena Park, a suburb of influenza are helping to prevent debilitating illness Houston. He was familiar with the world of medicine and even death in many instances. and also chose it as his profession, going to medical Keeping abreast of the newest technology school and dreaming of opening a rural practice, and procedures presents a unique set of challenges. away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Patients are more informed, and chronic medical “I couldn’t see myself focusing on just one area conditions are much more commonplace today than of medicine,” says Dr. Lambert. “I wanted to be a in the past. Conditions such as reflux, diabetes and primary care doctor, a generalist. A certain level of hypertension are oftentimes the result of people trust is built through long term care.” eating more and exercising less. This combined DDr. Lambert received his Bachelor of Science with the increasing population of aging Americans degree in Biology at the University of Texas and changes the way physicians deal with patients on a attended medical school at the University of Texas day to day basis. Medical Branch in Galveston. He completed his “People are trying harder to do what’s best for family practice residency at John Peter Smith their bodies,” states Dr. Lambert, now a physician at Hospital in Fort Worth. Soon after completing his College Station Family Medicine Center. “They try education, Dr. Lambert began practicing in the to eat better foods, exercise more and de-stress, but Mineral Wells area, later moving to Gatesville. He they need encouragement to do the right thing.” continued at the rural clinic until 1992, when he and For more information, or to schedule an his family moved to the College Station area. appointment, please call (979) 693-2586 or visit In the fast-paced world of medicine, changes occur www.csfammed.com. every day. According to Dr. Lambert, technological advancements involving immunizations have had groundbreaking implications. The new vaccine for HPV to guard against cervical cancer, the shingles
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION naturallyhealthy by Erin Hill Littlefield and Alysha Godfrey, owners of Sand Creek Farm. “We wanted a farm large enough to add to our dairy and grass-fed beef herds and to have room to incorporate other animals that would work well in the farm program. We wanted a place we could raise our children with a sustainable entrepreneurial venture that one day maybe they would settle with their families and continue the dream.” Ben and Alysha Godfrey, along with their four little girls, are the proprietors of “the first raw-for-retail cow milk dairy in Texas The Godfreys’ farm still sells that kind … our goal is to produce the most nutritious of milk, raw grass-fed-only milk, which is and cleanest grass-fed-only milk that can be neither pasteurized nor homogenized. They found in Texas,” say Ben and Alysha. sell this raw milk in one-gallon containers Less than a century ago, drinking raw and offer a discount to families that want to milk was very common; people either got commit to a weekly amount.
The Godfreys use rotational grazing, soil biology management, organic foliar feeding methods and free choice organic vitamin and mineral sources to ensure the best health of the land and animals.
July of 2006, the Godfrey family it from their own cows or bought it from Why raw milk? “There are huge health In picked up their raw milk dairy and farmers. People skimmed the cream off of benefits of raw milk,” say the Godfreys. sustainable living farm, which had been in a pail of milk to use on fresh berries. Many Sand Creek Farm offers some information Kurten, and moved it to Jones Prairie in used real buttermilk in their biscuits. Back about those benefits on its website at www. Milam County (on CR 267). The reason? then, “farm-fresh” wasn’t just a dairy product sandcreekfarm.net. “Doctors have done “More land and room for expansion,” say Ben marketing phrase. studies that show that raw milk can help
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August 2007/Insite 35 naturallyhealthy test for such diseases as BLV (Bovine Leukemia Virus), BVD (Bovine Virus Diarrhea), TB Ben and Alysha Godfrey (Tuberculosis), Johne’s (similar to Crohn’s in moved with their daughters to the current humans) and Brucellosis. location of Sand Creek “Keeping tight protocols and testing new Farm in Milam County cattle prior to purchase can keep a dairy cattle to expand their raw milk herd clean and free of all of these potential dairy and sustainable hazards,” says Alysha Godfrey, who has a farm venture. The degree in Scientific Nutrition from Texas Godfreys encourage anyone interested in raw dairy products or sustainable farming A&M University. Most milk drinkers would practices to visit Sand Creek to learn more For more information about Sand Creek feel more than a little queasy to know what about their farming methods. Farm’s sustainable farm and raw dairy was actually in that gallon of Grade A store products, visit www.sandcreekfarm.net. milk before it was pasteurized, she says. a commercial kitchen to provide broth stocks The Godfreys use rotational grazing, and bread. soil biology management, organic foliar reduce lots of symptoms of allergies, among “The customers sometimes like to come feeding methods and free choice organic other things.” and harvest the wild fruits and berries on the Pasteurized milk, also known as the kind vitamin and mineral sources to ensure farm seasonally as well,” Alysha says. for sale in grocery store coolers, has been the best health of the land and animals. Tours are welcome, and people are invited heated at extreme temperatures to make The ultimate gain is the nutritious milk, to come see for themselves the benefits of sure all live organisms are dead. Commercial meat, eggs and produce provided by the dairies that use pasteurization do not farm. Grass-fed-only dairy cattle produce raw milk. Sand Creek Farm has “an open need to adhere to the same stringent cow a clean-tasting milk, high in CLAs (artery door policy,” says Alysha. “Our customers management practices as a raw dairy because cleaners) and omega-3 fatty acids. are our best source of information and of the sterilization of the milk. In a raw milk The Godfreys’ goal is “to provide all encouragement; they fuel us on to new dairy, it is of the utmost importance that the that about 80-100 families need” and they adventures, new products, and new dreams. cow be monitored on a continual basis for any plan to add butter, cheese, yogurt and “We encourage others wanting to move out potential health issues that might affect the maybe some kefir this year. Next year may onto a farm or just run their farm in a different quality of the milk. From testing annually for bring further expansion, perhaps adding way to come and see what we are doing,” she common cattle illness to weekly monitoring some whey-fed pork and pastured lamb for says. “This is a great way to raise a family: for mastitis in the cow, the Godfreys regularly customers. Down the line, they hope to add hard work, but well worth the outcome.” i Trusted by Patients and Their Families.
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www.st-joseph.org advancededucation by Kelli Levey the time, those are really key,” says Chrissy Hester, a 37-year educator and former A&M Consolidated High School principal who now serves as coordinator of administrative and student services. “That senior year you go through these feelings of, ‘But this is COLLEGE BOUND the last time I get to do these things.’ You just can’t. You’re not doing your child any PREPPING KIDS, PARENTS AND THE FAMILY favors by doing everything for them. Your job is to build your relationship with them BUDGET FOR THEIR BIGGEST ADVENTURE through the middle school and high school years so that you’re not controlling them; you’re more of a partner in their decisions. You want to be there but not too close.” Hester recommends that students take at least one course in high school that requires them to manage a budget – courses like introduction to business or life and family science, where students pretend to get married, buy books, have a car that needs repairs, pay a co-pay at a doctor’s appointment, or sign a lease and then try to get out of it. Basic computer courses are equally important, Hester says. “It’s such a faster-paced world and technology plays a huge role,” she says. “They’ve got to be technically savvy.” Students who don’t feel academically prepared can take a developmental class in their weakest area. They don’t count toward college credit but they will help improve their skill level, which Hester says is a worthwhile investment of time. When it comes time to select a college, parents can help, but they should let the students make the final decision, Henry and Hester say. Henry says it’s never too early to visit college campuses, but waiting until the spring of their senior year might be too late. High school counselors, college admissions officials and even friends and family members can help with those decisions. the places they’ll go, the things with their parents and know exactly what Henry suggests narrowing the college OH, they’ll do, the price tag for it all the expectations are.” choices to two or three during the student’s – those decisions can seem overwhelming for The most important lessons parents can junior year, then starting the application parents of college-bound teens. Balancing teach their teenagers are how to manage process in the fall of their senior year. teens’ emotional, financial and academic needs at this juncture can have lasting implications, and for parents, letting go is Surviving in college is all about relationships – do you have the biggest, and hardest, step of all. the intuitiveness and tenacity to go wait outside the professor’s “It’s just another step in the child-rearing process, though possibly the biggest one,” office and tell him you need help?...Those are the things that says James Henry, lead academic adviser at make or break a college student. Bryan High School. “The key is to make sure – while they’re in high school – the -- Chrissy Hester, CSISD students are clear about what is going to happen next and what is expected of them their money and balance their time “Hopefully by the spring of your senior year, academically, financially and responsibility- commitments. “Things like making them you’ll be getting your acceptance letter and wise. Successful students are able to function responsible for getting where they need to it will all be decided,” he says. independently but still are communicating be and not checking on their schoolwork all Fear often keeps some people from
38 Insite/August 2007 tackling this decision early, he says, but that When choosing a college and a major, key kids about it. You have to have a plan and shouldn’t stop them. “They might have fears questions are What does the student enjoy everyone has to be on board about it.” or concerns about letting their kids go away, doing? and Does that match what he is good The most common avenue for college but we encourage them to talk to people at? Where can he go where they nurture savings is a 529 plan, which caps at the campus, people in the admissions those gifts and talents? Location really contributions at $11,000 a year. In addition office and the financial aid office and when should be the least of the considerations, to tuition, the plan also covers books and possible, those who can give them a tour,” he Hester says, because the “fit” is such an room and board. The funds can be transferred says. “Familiarity helps alleviate fears.” important element. to another family member if they’re not Hester says students often base their Another aspect of easing into adulthood used. Another avenue, the Coverdell decisions on propaganda and the perceptions is the financial impact. Although the ideal account, allows annual contributions of up of others. “Not every parent has the time or time for setting up a college fund is early to $2,000; the funds must be used by the the financial resources to go visit college in the child’s life, it’s never too late to start, time the beneficiary turns 29. campuses, and not every kid wants them says Joey Boring, a financial consultant with Other options include paying children to,” she says. “But those same students will Edward Jones. “It’s just that the longer you and setting up a Roth IRA for minors, dream up a lot of attributes for a campus wait, the more creative you have to get,” which can grow tax-deferred; accessing the that are based only in their imaginations he says. “You should never panic, because parents’ IRAs for educational expenses; and and in what little information they pick up grants, scholarships and work programs are accessing some of a life insurance policy for along the way. Knowing is always better available to fill in the gaps. The main thing a return of premium, which basically is a than guessing.” is to do what you can and to talk to your reduction of the benefits.
COLLEGE STUFF: WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR DORM AND WHAT TO DITCH PACKING LIGHT IS THE WAY TO GO by Hallie Gammon hether you’re moving across town or across the country, packing for college is an ordeal: a battle of wills, an examination of priorities, a test of Wyour ability to squeeze objects into very tight spaces. Last summer, after a week of sorting, throwing out, packing and repacking, and arguing with my parents over the sheer volume of my belongings, I shipped five huge boxes off to Vermont. Less than a week after my arrival, one box went back under my bed, full of all the things my mother had correctly but futilely warned me I would have neither space nor use for, destined not to see the light of day again until I repacked everything to come home. By that time, I had accumulated so many things I’d forgotten or not realized I would need that the second round of packing was a more harrowing ordeal than the first. The following guidelines will hopefully spare you some of the agonies of decision-making and let you have fun planning your home-away-from-home.
– anything that doesn’t take up familiar with the college laundry months without a printer mostly WHAT NOT TO BRING precious space on top of your facilities. One of the most useful by mooching off my friends before Your entire wardrobe. Under no desk and dresser. As an added things I took to college was a box I broke down and begged my circumstances should you simply bonus, posters don’t collect of Shout color-catcher cloths my parents to send me one. If you dump contents of your closet much dust. grandmother gave me. It means and your roommate work and play wholesale into a box, especially you can throw your colors and well together, sharing a printer is All your books. For one thing, those hideous sweaters lurking whites all in the same load without an economical solution. If you do they’re really heavy. For another at the back that you would never fear of everything turning pink, get your own printer, it will make thing, as a freshman, you need dream of wearing. If you’re like me, an idea that might scandalize you almost as many new friends to be getting out and making you probably wear the same jeans your mother, but at college you’ll as owning a car. friends, not holed up in your have better things to do than sort again and again and ignore a large A first aid kit. This should more room. Dorm room bookshelves laundry. Industrial washers and percentage of your wardrobe. If or less replicate your medicine you’re thinking “the more clothes I are tiny, and they have to hold dryers are hard on clothes, so cabinet at home, since you’ll have bring, the less often I’ll have to do textbooks too. Bring your favorite you’ll probably want to bring a to take care of yourself if you get laundry,” think again. You’ll end up “comfort books” for when you’re delicates bag and a drying rack. sick. You can (and should) always doing laundry anyway just to get having a really bad day, but leave Or you can simply let natural go to the campus health center if to those favorite jeans, and the the complete works of Tolkien at selection determine which of your anything is seriously wrong, but closet in your dorm room is going home in favor of a good dictionary clothes are college-worthy. for average colds, stomach upset to have to store more than clothes. for any language you’ll be studying A printer. While free printing in and sore throats, you’ll want to If you don’t wear it now, don’t (including English). If you get college computer labs sounds like have medicine on hand. If you bring it (unless it’s that adorable desperate for reading material, a great deal, unless the library is don’t normally pay attention to halter top your dad won’t let you there’s always the library. right out your back door, you’ll what your mom gives you when out of the house in.) WHAT NOT TO FORGET be spending a lot of time running you’re sick, ask her to go shopping Knick-knacks. In a dorm room, around campus at midnight with you to make sure you have your decorating space is limited Laundry supplies. Unless you’ll before your paper is due, vainly everything you need and know mostly to the walls and ceiling, so be able to bring your clothes seeking a printer that isn’t out how and when to take it. Besides, bring posters, pictures, bulletin home to mom on the weekend, of paper, out of ink, or just out if you’re not 18 yet she’ll have to boards, wall hangings, mobiles you’re going to become very of sorts. I survived my first two buy your Sudafed for you.
August 2007/Insite 39 advancededucation A financial advisor can help parents still have the “safety net” of living at home. college is hindered by academic requirements make these decisions by doing a college Others opt for maintaining more control by – even straight-A students are sometimes calculation (calculators are available on the depositing funds into an on-campus account, bumped down in priority because of the Internet, as well). Financial officials on the like Texas A&M University’s “Aggie Bucks” number of students with higher grades. That’s college campuses also can help pinpoint program, which can be used for items like where involvement in student organizations precisely what the costs will be, and the meals and books. will pay off, because such involvement is student can do a lot of the legwork on “The trick is to give them an education in weighed in the application process. If you’re researching that information. managing those accounts so that the student going to be in a group, Hester recommends, To help the students ease into their financial doesn’t run out of money the first month of aim to be a leader. “Colleges are looking independence, Henry says some parents feel their semester,” he says. “I’ve seen it happen for someone who knows how to balance a comfortable setting up a checking account for too often, and it could have been avoided budget or run a meeting or rally volunteers their high school student and making them with some education up front.” for a project,” she says. “They’re looking for responsible for maintaining it while they Sometimes a student’s eligibility for initiative. Make yourself get involved.” Hester has met many student teachers who decide at that late date they’re not cut out to work in the classroom. “Then we have others who have come through the alternative certification program later in life and say, ‘I should have been doing this all along,’ and that’s really exciting,” she says. “My point is it’s just not an exact science. The students have to learn enough along the way to make the best decisions for themselves. The only way they can do that is through exposure to a lot of different things.” MONEY, MONEY, MONEY From there, it’s up to the student to learn to navigate the systems he is entering. HOW MUCH IS THIS GOING TO COST?! “Surviving in college is all about relationships – do you have the intuitiveness efore you panic over college costs, The average surcharge for out-of-state and tenacity to go wait outside the professor’s consider that according to U.S. or out-of-district students at public office and tell him you need help?” she says. BCensus Bureau statistics, people with institutions is $4,208 at two-year colleges “Those are the things that make or break a a bachelor’s degree earn nearly twice as and $9,947 at four-year colleges. college student. In fact, those are the skills much on average than those with only a you’ll have to use throughout your adult life.” high school diploma. Over a lifetime, the Some of the biggest obstacles to a gap in earning potential between a high WHO GOES WHERE student’s success are lack of preparation and school diploma and a B.A. (or higher) is • 65 percent of students enrolled at the parents nicknamed “helicopters” because more than $1,000,000. four-year colleges or universities attend they try to continue hovering around their College is expensive and costs keep institutions that charge tuition and fees of offspring even after they’ve left home. rising, but your short-term sacrifice less than $9,000 per year. Incoming college students have to be more and investment should pay long-term dedicated than high school studies required dividends. Visit the excellent website • 56 percent of full-time students and prepared to commit to spending two http://www.collegeboard.com/parents/ enrolled in public four-year colleges to three hours studying for every one hour csearch/know-the-options/21385.html and universities attend institutions that of class time, says Gena Parsons, public for a basic comparison among four-year charge published in-state tuition and fees information officer at Blinn College’s Bryan state, four-year private college and two- between $3,000 and $6,000. year community college costs. campus. They have to do more planning, she • 41 percent of all students attend two- adds, because “waiting until 10 o’clock the year colleges. The average full-time night before to write that term paper just QUICK FIGURES (2006-2007) student enrolled in a public two-year won’t cut it anymore.” college student receives about $2,200 in While the students are undergoing this Four-year private $22,218 (up 5.9 percent grants and tax benefits, which reduces adjustment, Parsons says, the parents have from last year) the average tuition and fees paid from the no place in college hallways. “In fact, our published price of $2,272 to a net price of counselors and instructors won’t even talk to Four-year public $5,836 (up 6.3 percent under $100. a parent about a student’s business because from last year) Source: Cost and aid figures are from the College it’s time for the student to deal with these Two-year public $2,272 (up 4.1 percent Board’s Trends in College Pricing 2006, issues,” she says. “And when they turn 18, from last year) Trends in Student Aid 2006, and Education there are privacy laws that help you cut those Pays 2006. apron strings. It’s hard for some parents, but in the long run, it’s better for everyone.” i 40 Insite/August 2007 communityfocus by Kelli Levey
THE OTHER LOCAL COLLEGE BLINN OFFERS MULTIPLE PATHWAYS TO SUCCESS
linn College continues to blur the of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Education automatically become full-time students at lines between high school and higher and Human Development, Engineering, Texas A&M and will not have to apply as Beducation, while making extra training Geosciences and Science as well as programs transfer students. In addition, they may be attainable for those already in the workforce. at the Galveston branch campus. able to use their combined hours to receive Truckers and construction workers soon The agreement used as its model an their associate’s degree from Blinn. will find training immediately transferable existing articulation agreement between Last year, nearly 500 students were in the to a job site, and students seeking a four- Blinn and Texas A&M called TEAM, TEAM program, compared with the typical year college path can get a leg up on the or Transfer Enrollment at A&M. In the 350-375, Voelter says. “That shows us that competition – even before graduating from TEAM program, the freshmen must be we’re on the right track, and that people high school. on A&M’s waiting list and must indicate are taking advantage of this opportunity,” Blinn was established in Brenham in their interest in the TEAM Program on he says. 1883 and has since added campuses in Bryan, the form they submitted to be placed on Blinn also is reaching to the high school Schulenburg and Sealy. The Bryan campus is that list. Once accepted into the program, level. High school dual-credit programs the largest, claiming about 10,000 of Blinn’s the freshmen must take at least 12 hours a will probably become more widespread in total enrollment of 14,000. Blinn’s enrollment continues to increase even as other junior colleges’ around the Through The Early College High School, students will have state have faltered, says Blinn President Donald E. Voelter. “We’re hoping over the the opportunity to earn up to 60 college credit hours while next couple of years we will continue to working toward their high school diploma. increase even more,” he says. Blinn is tops in Texas in sending students semester, with three to five of those hours the coming years, Voelter says, since the to four-year universities, and is continuing on the A&M campus and the rest on Blinn’s Texas Legislature made some changes that expansion of its technology and workforce Bryan campus. Participants will be able to require high schools to participate. Blinn education programs. Blinn bolstered its access most student services and programs officials have had preliminary meetings with partnership with Texas A&M University last on both campuses, and if they are eligible Bryan High school to add construction and December with a Pilot Transfer Agreement, for financial aid, they will be able to receive welding programs there. which means Blinn students who meet financial aid through Blinn College based Blinn and A&M also helped craft a new certain course and grade requirements get upon their combined hours. high school program in Bryan: The Early automatic admission to A&M. The new To successfully complete the program, College High School, which is focused on agreement streamlines the application the students must complete 45 hours at preparing high school students for college. and admission process for students from Blinn and 15 hours at A&M – maintaining Students will have the opportunity to earn up Blinn and a few other Texas community at least a 3.0 grade point average at both. to 60 college credit hours (and an associate’s colleges who are entering A&M’s colleges Those who meet the requirements will degree) while working toward their high
August 2007/Insite 41 communityfocus localnotables compiled by the Insite Magazine staff school diploma. Best of all, the college Environmental Engineering and has been a BPW member courses will be free. Low-income and first- business since 1996. BPW promotes equity for all women in the Make your Printing POP with the generation college-bound students are the workplace through advocacy, education and information targets. The first class of 100 ninth-graders and provides members with professional development programs, networking, participation in grassroots activism, will begin in August, with an additional and opportunities to support scholarships for women. B/ 100 students added each year until the briefs CS BPW has evening meetings the first Tuesday of each maximum of 400 students is reached. August 2007 month. For information, e-mail [email protected]. One of Blinn’s niches is the many technical and workforce education programs L-R: Event sponsor Brenham resident Cindy it offers. The most popular are in health Ron Schmidt of Brannon has been accredited by NEWEST care: vocational and registered nurses, Texas Commercial the Institute for Independent radiological assistants, physical therapist Waste; Senator Business (IIB). Brannon’s Steve Ogden; recent accreditation will expand assistants and dental hygienists. Criminal Representative access to the Institute’s network justice is also a popular arena. The workforce Fred Brown; President of the Chamber of Commerce of Associates in Washington and education programs are expanding, and a Royce Hickman, at a recent Chamber of Commerce Brazos counties. The Institute for Independent Business is truck-driving component will be added Inner Circle Breakfast. Senator Steve Ogden and a global not-for-profit, research, training and accreditation Representative Fred Brown spoke about initiatives they organization established in 1984 to provide “practical FASTEST this fall. Computer courses continue to be popular and Blinn has partnered with passed in Austin and informed the crowd that the Texas advice that works.” It is the largest organization of its type the local apartment association to create economy is the best it has ever been. Senator Steve Ogden with more than 4,500 executives having been accredited. a course to train heating, ventilation and explained how the State budget surplus was spent and Accredited Associates are dedicated to delivering practical Representative Brown spoke about higher education. advice and support to entrepreneurs and business owners. air conditioning service technicians. After For more information, call Brannon at (979) 421-3155 or completing the program in Brenham or L-R: Chamber email her at [email protected]. Bryan, the students can easily work in the of Commerce BESTEST(Is Bestest even a real word?) residential and commercial air conditioning, President The Benjamin Knox Gallery is opening an event center refrigeration, and heating industry. Royce Hickman; next to the existing Gallery location, which will feature live Blinn can customize its training programs Chamber of music on the weekends, wine tastings, art classes and other When it comes to Ink on Paper, you only want to fit a workplace’s needs. It is taking its show Commerce local artists exhibits. The event center will be available for on the road via a training partnership with Chairman Carol Gravis (Wells Fargo Bank); rental for receptions, meetings and other activities. For the Best. Come see the Newest, the Fastest, and Centara Building Technologies in Navasota, Community Service Award recipient, Ron Gay more information, call Sara Scott, executive director of (Scott and White Health Plan); Alumni Association the Bestest (ok, we know, it’s not a real word, where up to 150 employees will hone the BK Art Center, at 1-800-299-5669 or email director@ Award recipient, Eric Wylie (Wells Fargo Bank); benjaminknox.com. their construction skills to create modular and Incoming Chairman of Leadership Brazos but we like it) at Insite… The Komori Lithrone buildings. A Texas Workforce Commission Alumni Association, Jarrod Hix (A.G. Edwards) August 7 beginning at 6 p.m., The Bryan/College Station LS629 Press. grant totaling nearly $222,000 will help at a recent Leadership Brazos Alumni Awards Chapter of the American Business Women’s current and future employees learn about Program. Leadership Brazos is a nine-month program Association will present top-rated speaker Kay Haugen, carpentry, plumbing and electrical wiring. of the Bryan/College Station Chamber of Commerce that author of “From the Poorhouse to the Penthouse.” The Printing that Looks Better, Costs Less, and is The plant manufactures mobile and modular offers participants hands-on introductions into the working event will be held at The Holiday Inn and Suites, 2500 Earl buildings, along with GroundForce Building of Brazos County at a variety of on-site locations. To apply Rudder Freeway, College Station. For more information, call Faster from Start to Finish. What else could you for Leadership Brazos, download an application at the Systems, a movable concrete slab foundation. Rilene McCord at (979) 779-6886 or RSVP for the meeting Chamber of Commerce website, bcschamber.org, or call by email to [email protected]. possibly want? A growing number of Blinn students (979) 260-5200. rarely even set foot on campus, choosing The award-winning Outpost @ Cedar Creek Bed & instead to take distance-learning classes. Beverly Turek was recently Breakfast Inn in Round Top is one of the must-visit awarded the 2007 Women Last year’s enrollment was 600, up from choices in the new travel book 1000 Places to see in the of Technology Award for the previous year’s 496. Gena Parsons, USA and Canada before You Die. Author Patricia Schultz Excellent Achievement in spokeswoman at the Bryan campus, says researched across the United States and Canada to come up the Field of Technology the courses aren’t really recommended for with her list. This best-selling book is also the basis of a new and Service by the reality television show on The Travel Channel. The Outpost freshmen. “We like the students to get into ETA Association. Turek’s @ Cedar Creek Inn is a museum collection of early pioneer the routine of college first, but once they get company, Tureks Computer DR, also was awarded the log cabins, cottages, and guesthouses, each restored in there, it’s so much more interactive and ETA Association’s Computer Training Access 2007 Best engaging for the students,” she says. “This Company Advancing Women in Technology award in with modern conveniences and unique decor. The 1880s really is an effort to tailor the teaching to recognition of its valuable contributions to women in farmstead is located halfway between Houston and Austin, just six miles from Round Top. For more information, call their learning styles.” the technology field. For more information about Tureks (979) 836-4975 or visit www.outpostinn.com. “Twenty years ago we were expected to Computer DR and its services, call (979) 822-7305. sit and listen, to take notes and not ask too Kim Sullivan, member of Bryan/ Christine Larsen, president of the Bryan/College many questions,” Parsons says. “Today’s College Station Business & Station Junior League, recognized the League’s 2006- students are so different. They can text Professional Women’s Club, will 2007 scholarship recipients at the May meeting. Kathleen message while they’re listening to a lecture serve as President of BPW/TX for Coulson of A&M Consolidated, Elizabeth Borroni of and watching television. We have to engage the 2007-2008 year. Sullivan is the A&M Consolidated, and Veronica Villarreal of Bryan 123 E. Wm J. Bryan Pkwy. Bryan, Texas 77803 them. These classes are the direction we’re Site/Plant Manager for Legacy Site High School each received $1500 from the Junior League 979.823.5567 800.364.2665 Toll Free 979.823.3894 Fax to use for their future college attendance. moving to do that.” i Services, LLC. She holds degrees in Chemistry and i See our new website at www.insitegroup.com 42 Insite/August 2007 Make your Printing POP with the NEWEST FASTEST
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