Interviews

Powerhouse Gym Fitness Center
A Passionate Blend of Body, Mind & Spirit

First things first, the team at Powerhouse Gym Fitness Center would like to wish First Colony a happy New Year and thank the community for the overwhelming response and warm welcome received since opening their 30,000 square foot facility at the corner of Lexington and Dulles. Second, They would like to encourage the few (and you know who you are) who have not visited, to take the opportunity to come out, meet the team and experience first hand the difference this gym has to offer. You see, the only resolution they've made for this year is helping you keep YOUR resolution. Powerhouse is so confident in this endeavor, they are backing it with a 30 day, 100% money back guarantee!

So I had to ask...how does Powerhouse plan on getting me off my comfy couch and in that 7:30pm Pilates class? General Manager, Roger Maul explained, "That's easy....it all centers in what we provide with our memberships. Our clients are presented with a complete and total fitness experience that covers all aspects of health and well being. We not only offer members a variety of unique, personalized services from meal management to private showers, but our staff is highly trained in educating clients on lifestyle changes that aim for success. This positive direction keeps members motivated and enthused which ultimately results in goal achievement while having a lot of fun in the process." He then quickly introduced me to Group Fitness Director, Nichole Taylor, who is directly in charge of all this fun and motivation.

Nichole has been in the fitness industry for over 4 years, specializing in mind/body exercise formats. Her credentials are more than impressive with certifications through various organizations including the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA), The Aquatic Exercise Association (AEA), Turbokick, Resist-a-ball, and completing over 85 hours of Yogafit¨ training. Dedicated, and sharing a passion for fitness and education with her staff of 15 instructors, Nichole ensures a positive and enjoyable experience for all members attending classes. From 5:15am until 8:30pm, there isn't much room for boredom with exciting and power-packed choices such as pilates, strength training, group cycling, bootcamp, kickboxing, step aerobics and yoga. Plus, they offer guilt-free childcare where parents can now drop off the kids in a supervised play room generously equipped with computers, tv & video, playscape, interactive learning zones, homework and arts and crafts stations. A separate infant room is available for children aged 8 weeks to 2 years. The best part...no extra fees, it is all free with membership!

The management team also recently welcomed Assistant Fitness Manager Josh Shine to their dedicated team of professionals. Josh has three certifications, two with the Cooper institute in Dallas. A physical fitness specialist who attended the National Academy of Sports Medicine, Josh provides optimal performance training. He also has extensive experience with the handicapped and disabled, easily addressing those members requiring any special needs.

Ok, so they have everything you could possibly want...cutting-edge equipment, a quick circuit workout designed especially for women, a separate olympic, power-lifting room for the more serious lifter....still not motivated...then how about contests! Yes, you heard it right. You may be the winner in various monthly contests with prizes that include cash and trips to fun-filled destinations. How's that for getting you off the couch!

Last, but not least, Powerhouse Gym Fitness Center wants you to remember that goals are only dreams with deadlines. Stop in, sign up, and for the first time, start watching that New Year's resolution become a reality.

Located at 4799 Lexington Blvd., they are open 24 hours, 7 days a week. Calls are always welcomed at 281.208.9080.

SugarWood Gymnastics Academy

If only I could go back in time, and be young again! This was my first thought as I walked through the doors of SugarWood Gymnastics Academy. All those children with big grins, laughing, and obviously having a great time, made me wish I could be ten years old again. Unknown to these innocent faces, they were not only having fun, but developing important physical, social, and emotional skills as well.

Owner Louise Lorfing, "Miss Louise" greeted me, and shared her formula for success. "This is a non-competitive center that focuses on the child as an individual, allowing them to grow and learn at their own pace. We only use positive motivation, validating their accomplishments, no matter how small. This type of encouragement helps them develop a positive self image." That explains all the smiling faces!

And Miss Louise plans to expand all this fun with another 5,000 square feet of regulation size equipment, in-ground tumble track and trampoline, and a regulation size, pit spring floor. This will be her third expansion since opening five years ago in June. She currently employs a staff of 14, all active in gymnastics, cheerleading, or tumbling.

Elaine De La Torre regarded the programs at SugarWood so highly that she left the corporate world to take the position of Gym Manager. Miss Elaine wanted parents to know that SugarWood also provides activities for non-members. "We have a MomÕs Day Out every Friday, 9am-1pm for those busy parents who would like to get a few errands done, or just get a few hours of relaxation in." Their most popular community service has been Parent's Night Out. "The last Friday of each month we open the gym from 7pm to 11pm," she states, "and for a small fee, parent's can drop off the kids for a night of fun and entertainment. The parents love it almost as much as the kids! Also our Summer Camp program is now underway and we have all kinds of exciting activities planned from arts & crafts, to magicians and movies." She smiles, "And its not too late to sign up." In addition to all this, they host incredible birthday and holiday parties, the largest being the Mayfest celebration. However, their main focus is on the gymnastic programs and here is a short summary of what they offer:

Mom and Me (18 Months-3 Years)

Once a week, Toddlers as young as 18 months old participate in this program that lasts about 45 minutes. Please donÕt let the name fool you, any guardian (that means dad, grandma and even grandpa) can join in and work with the child on a variety of skills that improve motor coordination. Divided off from the rest of the gym, they use the same olympian equipment adults use, only sized down for little hands and feet. This is a wonderful program that helps youngsters develop the necessary skills for physical and psychological growth. Plus everyone has a whole lot of fun!

Preschool (3 Years-5 Years)

At a six to one ratio, these children work on the same skills as the Mom and Me program, but with a coach. The focus is on learning to follow directions, and socializing with other children and adults. Although the activity only lasts one hour, parents insists their child's smile lasts all day!

Kindergym (5 Years)

Graduating to the main floor of the gym, these youngsters also work at a six to one ratio with a coach.

Developmental Boys & Girls (6 Years & Up)

Working at their own pace, the children in this program begin to develop the physical skills needed to perform on the high, uneven, and parallel bars, floor and tumble track, pommel horse, and vaulting. Miss Louise points out that, "The children are not pushed, but encouraged to challenge themselves. Their progress is all up to them, and how far they want to take it." From here, they will be evaluated for the Elite program, which will prepare members for competing, if that is the direction they choose to take.

That is how 8 year old Kristian De La Torre worked his way up to participating in the state championships, where he walked away with one silver and three bronze medals. This amazing student was SugarWood's first enrollment five years ago, when at the age of 3, he talked his mother (Miss Elaine) into signing up before the gym was even opened! Working-out five days a week, Kristian also helps the coaches with warm-ups, and can be often seen assisting with the personal training of other young hopefuls. Come by and meet Kristian, and you'll agree with my prediction that SugarWood has a future Olympian in their midst.

Miss Louise plans to celebrate the center's 5 year anniversary with a huge party on June 24th. She would like to invite the community to come join in the fun, and see for themselves why this academy has been voted number one in Fort Bend. See you, and your family there...and plan to do alot of smiling, laughing and wishing you were ten years old again!

Old Fashioned Service With A Contemporary Twist..
Dr. Richey Provides His Patients With One-Of-A-Kind Service And Care

The smiling must be infectious! How else could you explain all the happy faces in the Advanced Family Eye Care office. Greeted by a friendly, courteous staff, I begin to browse the beautiful displays of designer eyewear..Ralph Lauren, Tommy Bahama, Calvin Klein, Giorgio Armani, and Kate Spade... Did you know that Fisher Price makes a line for the littlest of eyes?

Dr. Richey introduces himself, casually wearing a grin that has become a familiar fixture in this office. I now realize the real reason behind everyone's smile. Rare in today's hurried society, it is this warm and caring atmosphere that sets Dr. Richey and his staff apart from other vision centers. It doesn't matter whether you are a mom bringing in a first-time toddler, or a senior citizen seeking treatment for glaucoma, ultimately all these patients will receive personalized care that is tailored just for them.

"By the time I was a freshman in high school, I knew that Optometry was the field I wanted to pursue," states Dr. Richey. "Since then I have dedicated most of my life to helping people with every aspect of eye care health." He elaborates, "The emphasis has always been on establishing a long term relationship with my patient. I feel that in order to truly understand a person's needs, a doctor must be willing to do comprehensive evaluations." He also stresses education, and the importance of life-long preventative care. "From performing annual exams to minor surgical treatments, such as foreign body removal, my office is fully equipped with the latest in vision technology." He continues, "We can provide all members of your family with many quality services, including the treatment of allergies, infections, and inflammations of the eye. I am also a participant of the Eye Center Of Texas Referral Network, and have access to top Houston professionals that specialize in major surgical procedures, including Lasik." In addition, his optical department boasts a variety of stylish lens options; from progressive and photochromics, to hard or soft contacts under a guaranteed success program. An exclusive 2 year frame and lens warranty is also available. Plus, Advanced Family Eye Care now carries the latest in vision correction, the Ortho-K lenses! These gas-permeable lenses actually correct nearsightedness while you sleep! Safe for children and teenagers, this is a reversible solution for those seeking an alternative to laser surgery.

Most insurance policies, including Medicare are accepted. Call for more details, or visit Dr. Richey's website at drrichey.com. Better yet, come in, and experience first hand the extraordinary blend of modern technology and old fashioned care. And don't forget to bring your smile!

My Dentist
Dr. Bhatti Wants You To Feel At Ease..

Maybe it is the thought of hearing bad news about your teeth. Or perhaps it can be the fear of having to receive complex dental work to correct that bad news. Whatever the reason, not many people look forward to going to the dentist. Dr. Bhatti and her staff at My Dentist understand these fears, and would like to ease any apprehension that might be felt about making that much needed visit.

Dr. Bhatti was born in Chicago, Illinois, but she came to Texas as fast as she could! She attended Houston Baptist University, and earned her dentistry degree at UT Dental School in Houston. For the past eight years she has been dedicated to serving the Houston area, and is truly devoted to making your experience as painless and worryfree as possible. The most common problem Dr. Bhatti encounters is "cavities." She says, "some require root canals or extractions, while others are small enough where I can treat them with fillings." She notes, "Good oral hygiene, and regular six month check-ups are the best way to prevent cavities from developing into a circumstance requiring a major procedure." However, if a procedure is necessary, Dr. Bhatti ensures that she will do her best to calm your nerves. "I strive to develop a trusting rapport with my patients. I want them to understand that alleviating their fear is a top priority." She elaborates, "I normally use inhalation sedation (laughing gas), but can prescribe other medications if the patient's level of anxiety is not able to be managed with the gas."

In addition to providing exceptional dental care, Dr. Bhatti is also known for her expertise in performing extraordinary cosmetic procedures. She retains the services of a superior lab, which allows her to offer a five year warranty on all restoration work. "I love the aesthetic nature of this business," she proudly states, "it is extremely gratifying when I have been able to help someone show off a beautiful new smile!" She is also Invisalign certified for those wanting to straighten their teeth without the hassle and appearance of old fashioned braces.

Want to quickly improve your look? Office whitening and home bleaching kits are available for achieving that beautiful, white smile that graces the covers of all the fashion magazines. Because the home bleaching kit utilizes a 9% hydrogen peroxide gel versus the old 16-22% carbamide peroxide gels, this new formulation offers a shorter wear time with really dramatic results.

It is during your initial visit to My Dentist, that Dr. Bhatti will gain a thorough understanding of your needs and desires. "I really take the time to get to know my patients, and they really appreciate this personalized service." Dr. Bhatti and her friendly staff would like to make your experience enjoyable and painless. Easy payment plans, and the acceptance of most dental insurance makes the financial aspects of the visit bearable. Then add the quality of work, the special care, and attention you receive at Dr. Bhatti's office, "My Dentist" is sure to become your dentist!