Alvin L. Zimmerman & Gary J. Zimmerman

Alvin L. Zimmerman & Gary J. Zimmerman
Family Law

Dealing in divorce, custody modifications, traditional and collaborative divorce, and premarital agreements.

Alvin L. Zimmerman
(J.D. – University of Houston Law Center)
Former district judge: 269th (Civil), 309th (Family). Past Chair Houston Bar Association: Family Law, ADR Sections. Board Certified Family Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Fellow, American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.

Gary J. Zimmerman
(Fluent Spanish, J.D. – University of Texas Law School)
Volunteer for Child Advocates, Inc. Honors graduate: St. John’s School and Claremont McKenna College.

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Spencer Fane
3040 Post Oak Boulevard, Ste. 1300
Houston, TX 77056
713-552-1234 • zimmerlaw.com

Scott M. Brown

Scott M. Brown
Family Law

At Scott M. Brown and Associates, success in the courtroom is not something that’s taken lightly. Whether it’s a matter of family law, including high-asset divorce and complex child custody battles, criminal law or personal injury, Scott M. Brown and his team are steadfast in their commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for their every client. “Our number-one goal is to help our clients achieve success with their legal problems,” says Brown, who’s board certified as a family law specialist through the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, a distinction held by less than one percent of the attorneys in Texas. A 2016-2018 Texas Super Lawyer^®, Brown also holds the highest possible Avvo rating.

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Scott M. Brown & Associates
17210 Mercury Dr.
Houston, TX 77058
713-364-0321
www.sbrownlawyer.com

Larry Chamberlin

Larry Chamberlin
Family Law & Mediation

Emotional distress is difficult enough to deal with in divorce, but  a pattern of dysfunction exacerbates the turmoil. When an argument begins, leave. Just get out. If you lost your temper it may be from button-pushing: some comment or gesture, perhaps deliberate, that predictably triggered an emotional response over which you felt no control. After you have restored your sense of calm, think back to the conversation and play it back like a video. When you get to where you lost your temper, reverse the memory video. The remark or gesture the other person did immediately before you lost your temper was them pushing your button. Be on the look-out for that trigger in future conversations. You have a microsecond to choose not to react, and thereby disconnect your buttons.

Larry Chamberlin earned his Juris Doctor from Tulane Law School, where he was elected to the National Order of Barristers in 1988. He received an M.A. in International Business Management at the University of Texas at Dallas. He is Board Certified in Family Law, a member of Mensa and in 2006, while in a Juvenile Forensic Psychology Masters program, he was elected to Psi Chi, the prestigious psychology honor society.

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Chamberlin Law & Mediation
3724 FM 1960 Road W., Ste. 222
Houston, TX 77068
281-580-2222 • larrychamberlin.com
Larry@Chamberlin.com

Mary E. Ramos

Mary E. Ramos | Family Law

AT THE HELM OF THE RAMOS LAW GROUP, PLLC, WHICH SPECIALIZES IN ALL ASPECTS OF FAMILY LAW, MARY E. RAMOS IS KNOWN AS THE GLADIATOR OF FAMILY LAW. From adoptions, high-conflict divorce litigation and child custody to high-asset property division and more, the firm provides exceptional service and insight to each and every client. “From the first time I stepped into a family courtroom, my role as a family law attorney was clarified. I couldn’t see myself doing anything else with my life. Few people get the opportunity to do what they love every day, and I am blessed in being able to pursue my dreams as an advocate,” says Ramos, who’s Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization with more than 15 years of experience.

Together with her seasoned associates, Ramos is a firm believer in continuing education. To that end, the team is active in various legal organizations, with Ramos maintaining membership in the Texas Bar College, which warrants four times the education requirement for all attorneys. Membership is an honor bestowed to less than 10 percent of Texas attorneys.

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RAMOS LAW GROUP PLLC
1214 Miramar St.
Houston, TX 77006
713-225-6200 • ramosfamilylaw.com

Satvi Pinnamaneni, DDS

Satvi Pinnamaneni, DDS
Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

Oral health is a crucial component of overall health and well-being, says Dr. Satvi Pinnamaneni. Known to her patients as Dr. P, she is an avid advocate of comprehensive dentistry. She focuses on not just the cosmetic aspect of the restorations, but also the functional longevity. “My staff and I treat patients in a calm and anxiety-free environment. We strongly believe that this allows us to achieve the highest success rate for the procedures we perform. We offer multiple sedation options, and ample time at each visit that allows us to listen to and address patients’ questions and concerns,” says Dr. P.  Being a strong proponent of continuing education, Dr. P is dedicated to providing high-quality care using the latest advances in dentistry. This dedication combined with her cheerful and compassionate chair-side manner are just two of the many reasons patients travel to Cypress to seek her care.

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Satvi Pinnamaneni, DDS
26281 Northwest Freeway, Ste. 700
Cypress, TX 77429
281-758-0060
cypresslakesdental.com

Scott Young, DDS

Scott Young, DDS
Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry

At the offices of Scott Young, DDS you are not just another patient; you are treated as a prominent guest from the moment you walk in. Dr. Young’s practice is based on a foundation of providing personal attention to every guest. Personalized treatment plans ensure your comfort at every level of service including sedation dentistry, a serenity suite for relaxation, pillows, blankets and noise cancellation headphones.

“It is my goal that our patients—our guests—have no anxiety while they are under our care. We utilize advanced technology such as the 3D CT scan for planning and placement of implants,” says Dr. Young. “For those who are a little more apprehensive about visiting a dentist, we have sedation dentistry available.”

A graduate of the University of Texas Dental Branch, Dr. Young focuses on cosmetic and implant dentistry while offering the full spectrum of dental services including teeth whitening, implant supported prosthesis and full smile makeovers. Dr. Young has completed all core courses at LVI for Advanced Dental Studies. In addition, Dr. Young holds fellowship status with the American Dental Implant Association and was named a Super Dentist^® in Texas Monthly.

“With the most advanced dental technology, a warm and knowledgeable team, and all the amenities necessary to help you feel relaxed and comfortable, our office is the place to receive five-star cosmetic dentistry treatment along with the smile you’ve always wanted,” says Dr. Young.

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SCOTT YOUNG, DDS
6769 Lake Woodlands Drive, Ste. G
The Woodlands, TX 77382
832-610-3119 • woodlandsdentistry.com

Steve L. Koo, DDS and Thomas M. Weil, DDS

Thomas M. Weil, DDS and Steve L. Koo, DDS
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Piney Point Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, renowned as the city’s premier provider of dental implants, offers the ultimate in care for the teeth, mouth and face. With more than 40 years of experience, Dr. Thomas Weil and
Dr. Steve Koo are highly qualified to perform all types of oral
and maxillofacial surgery.

At Piney Point, patient needs are paramount. The staff is committed to providing the best possible care and the office is equipped with the latest technology, including cone beam and advanced digital imaging. It’s no wonder they’ve been selected as Top Docs in both H Texas and Houstonia.

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Piney Point Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
2450 Fondren, Ste. 320
Houston, TX 77063
832-924-3799 • pineypointoms.com

Anthony Perri, MD

Anthony Perri, MD
Dermatology

One of Houston’s top dermatologists, Dr. Perri has been honored as a Top Doctor in H Texas magazine for the past seven years as well as a Rising Star (2012–2014) and Super Doctor (2015–2018) in Texas Monthly magazine. “Having a father that is a melanoma survivor has certainly influenced my commitment to the early detection of skin cancer” says Dr. Perri, a board-certified dermatologist also distinguished as “Best of the Woodlands Winner” (2014–2019) in the Woodlands Online. At Perri Dermatology, with two convenient locations in Conroe and The Woodlands, he and Dermatology Physician’s Assistant Melissa Shearer, PA-C, treat many different skin conditions and are committed to ensuring that patients do not have to wait months for an appointment.

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PERRI DERMATOLOGY
Two locations:
Conroe and The Woodlands
936-522-4966 • perridermatology.com

Camille George, MD

Camille J. George, MD
Texas Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center

As a former NCAA Division 1A college athlete in both football and track, Dr. Camille J. George knows first-hand how important maintaining an active lifestyle is for his patients. Specializing in sports medicine and general orthopedics, Dr. George utilizes state-of-the-art arthroscopic, microscopic, robotic and minimally invasive open procedures to prevent scarring and to maximize recovery time, allowing his patients to return to their usual activities within the shortest and safest length of time possible. Dr. George provides operative and non-operative treatments for both general orthopedic and sports medicine conditions to all age groups as well as in office physical therapy. He is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and a member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

Having treated athletes of all ages from little league to professional sports for nearly 20 years, Dr. George has garnered a wealth of experience in the field of sports medicine. He has worked with the medical team of physicians for the Houston Energy, Houston Cyclones, Houston Rockets and the former Houston Oilers.

Conveniently located near The Galleria, Dr. George and his highly competent and considerate staff are within reach from every part of the city. In addition to providing patients with individualized attention and personalized care, Dr. George’s office staff is bilingual in Spanish and is always ready to assist patients with all of their orthopedic needs.

Education: Tulane University, BS; Tulane University School of Medicine, MD; Baylor College of Medicine, surgical internship, orthopedic residency, and sports medicine fellowship

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TEXAS ORTHOPEDIC & SPORTS MEDICINE CENTER
4126 Southwest Freeway, Ste. 800
Houston, TX 77027
713-572-0030 • sports-med.com

The Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery

The Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery

With its eight plastic surgeons holding more than 300 awards collectively, The Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery (ACPS) is one of the nation’s most awarded plastic surgery groups. Its surgeons’ game-changing contributions to plastic surgery—the techniques they’ve developed, the safety standards they’ve instituted, and the research they’ve published—have made ACPS the gold-standard in plastic surgery in the eyes of many. ACPS was named the Best Aesthetic Practice in Texas at the 2016 My Face My Body Awards, based upon the votes of an elite international judging panel.

Performing more than 8,000 face, breast and body cosmetic plastic surgery procedures a year—ACPS surgeons draw patients from around the globe because of their finesse in blending artistry with surgical precision, advanced technology and research in a caring environment. Surgeries are conducted at ACPS’s expansive state-of-the-art private surgery center, which includes 4 operating rooms and a team of highly-skilled medical professionals who’ve been hand-selected by ACPS surgeons.

ACPS offers women and men a wide variety of nonsurgical treatments for the face and body at its elegant Spa & Rejuvenation Centers, which are located at the group’s two office locations. Guests can relax and renew while ACPS’ talented aesthetic nurses and skin care specialists deliver procedures and products individually-tailored to get the best results possible with little to no downtime required.

Pictured from left to right: Dr. Courtney El-Zokm, MD, Dr. Henry Mentz, MD, FACS, FICS, Dr. Rolando Morales, MD, FACS, FICS, Dr. German Newall, MD, FACS, FICS, Dr. Paul Fortes, MD, FACS, FICS, Dr. Christopher Patronella, MD, FACS, FICS, Dr. Kristi Hustak, MD, Dr. Olivier Deigni, MD

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The Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery
713-799-9999 • mybeautifulbody.com

Memorial/Town & Country
12727 Kimberley Ln., Ste. 300
Houston, TX 77024

Galleria/River Oaks
4400 Post Oak Parkway, Ste. 300
Houston, TX 77027

Asif Chaudhry, MD

Asif Chaudhry, MD
Houston Pain and Spine

“Being in the medical field for more than 10 years, I understand that some doctors are better at certain practices than others. This is why I decided to see Dr. Asif Chaudhry for my back condition. After my consultation and procedure, I am back to my old self again. His reputation is second to none and now I understand why.”—C. Dagenais, a patient of Houston Pain and Spine.

Neck and back pain can be debilitating and cause deterioration in one’s life. Asif Chaudhry, MD and his professional interventional spine team work to alleviate and eliminate pain through minimally-invasive surgical and non-surgical techniques in order to get you back to your normal activities quickly.

Dr. Chaudhry is board certified in interventional pain management and graduated with honors from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine. He went on to complete his fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Department of Anesthesia, one of the top three training facilities for pain management in the country. In addition to his excellent education and understanding of pain management, Dr. Chaudhry is also well-loved by his patients for his compassionate care.

“We treat patients like family, taking the time to listen and understand the origin of their discomfort,” says Dr. Chaudhry. “We understand that dealing with pain is not easy, so we pride ourselves on trying to get patients seen as quickly as possible.”

Houston Pain and Spine treats patients dealing with neck pain, lower and upper back pain, sciatica, and nerve pain, as well as other less common, painful disorders.

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Houston Pain and Spine
P: 832-436-4040 • F: 832-436-4050 • houstonpainandspine.com

Bellaire Location
5420 W. Loop South, Ste. 2100
Bellaire, TX 77401

The Woodlands Location
3117 College Park Dr., Ste. 210
The Woodlands, TX 77384

Michael L. Eisemann, MD

Michael L. Eisemann, MD
Eisemann Plastic Surgery Center

Dr. Michael Eisemann is Houston’s premier triple board certified plastic surgeon, former president of the Houston Society of Plastic Surgeons and listed in the “GUIDE TO TOP DOCTORS” as a top-rated plastic surgeon in Texas. He has been practicing in the heart of the Medical Center for over 20 years. Dr. Eisemann performs advanced techniques in body contouring, liposuction, tummy tuck and breast enhancement procedures. In addition to Plastic Surgery, he is also Board Certified in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and Head and Neck Surgery, making him uniquely qualified for facial rejuvenation procedures. He has come to be known for keeping Houston’s elite looking their best by raising eyebrows and eyelids, tightening the face and neck, contouring the lips and cheeks, and reshaping the nose while improving breathing.

Dr. Eisemann uses the latest technology in video imaging, morphometric analysis and uses Anatomic Form Stable breast implants for breast augmentation with custom trial sizes. Patients may visualize their new look before surgery. Most procedures are done in his state-of-the-art, national certified Eisemann Plastic Surgery Center inside Smith Tower, conveniently connected to the Marriott Medical Center Hotel for out of town patients.

Dr. Eisemann is an assistant clinical professor at Baylor College of Medicine and Weil Cornell Medical School and is on the teaching faculty of the Methodist Hospital and Baylor Plastic Surgery Residency Programs. He was trained at Johns Hopkins in Head and Neck Surgery, Yale in General Surgery and Baylor in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He is Fellowship trained in craniofacial surgery at the Hospital for Sick Children Toronto, Canada. These are among the top national residency training programs.

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Eisemann Plastic Surgery Center
6550 Fannin, Ste. 2119
Houston, TX 77030
713-790-1771 • cosmeticsurgeryhouston.com

Wayde Fawcett, DDS

Wayde Fawcett, DDS
Cosmetic Dentistry & Dental Implants

The Art of Dentistry

Dr. Fawcett has been providing a wide range of services in general dentistry in his hometown for over 34 years, with a special focus on cosmetic dentistry, dental implants and full smile makeovers.

One of the most popular procedures he offers is Teeth-In-One-Day, a groundbreaking alternative that allows patients to receive dental implants and a full set of new teeth all in the same day. “We provide dentistry that changes people’s lives, and in doing so, we change our own, “ says Dr. Fawcett. “Our commitment to quality governs every aspect of our work and ensures that we always exceed our clients’ expectations.”

In 2007, Dr. Fawcett was among 157 dentists to be honored with the title “Master of the Academy of General Dentistry (MAGD),” considered to be one of the most respected designations in the profession. Most recently, in 2015, Dr. Fawcett received the prestigious Lifelong Learning and Service Recognition from The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), a distinction held only by 274 of the ADG’s 39,000 members, recognizing his commitment to continuing education, community service and mentorship.

Clients of Dr. Fawcett appreciate the personal attention, warmth and genuine concern he shows each individual. His fun-loving personality and compassionate chairside manner have nurtured long-lasting relationships and loyal patients from all over the world.

SERVICES: Teeth-In-One-Day • Implants • Cosmetic Dentistry • Full Mouth Rejuvenation • Smile Makeovers • Porcelain Veneers & Crowns • Porcelain Bridges & Partials • Sleep Dentistry • Gum Disease & Hygiene Programs • TMJ /Neuromuscular Dentistry • Sleep Apnea

EDUCATION: University of Texas Dental School, Houston, TX

ACCREDITATIONS: Master of the Academy of General Dentistry (MAGD) • Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (FICOI) • Graduate of the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI)

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Fawcett Center for Dentistry
13956 Cutten Road
Houston, TX 77069
281-440-6648 • DrFawcett.com

Raza Pasha, MD

Raza Pasha, MD
Pasha Snoring & Sinus Center

Dr. Raza Pasha has the unique distinction of being both Board-Certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology (Ear, Nose, and Throat-Head and Neck Surgery) as well as having specialty certification in Sleep Medicine. He holds academic appointments including Clinical Assistant Professor at UTMB School of Medicine. Dr. Pasha has focused his practice specifically on the comprehensive management of sleep apnea, snoring, allergy and sinus related disorders. Coined as Houston’s “Snoring Doctor,” Dr. Pasha has performed over 3,600 surgical procedures.

Dr. Pasha is a nationally recognized leader and innovator in his field. He has helped pioneer several procedures, including performing the first in-office balloon sinuplasty procedure in Houston as well as developing more advanced surgical techniques such as the application of the Da Vinci robot for sleep apnea. Dr. Pasha has had the privilege to lecture throughout the country to his peers and students in various academic settings. He often has colleagues and students rotate through his clinic to learn his approach. Dr. Pasha is also a prolific author having published several original journal articles but is best known for his pocket review book, now in its fifth edition, which has become a staple for residents in training.

Dr. Pasha is a strong advocate for patient outreach and is frequently featured in the press including KHOU Channel 11, KPRC Channel 2, The Learning Channel (TLC), and several radio stations. He also has a featured segment on Great Day Houston.

Aside from taking care of patients, Dr. Pasha may also be spotted on the bike trails of Memorial Park or a Mixed Martial Arts hot spot supporting his favorite fighter.

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Pasha Snoring & Sinus Center
59@Kirby
Houston, TX 77098
713-523-8800 • PashaMD.com

Kenneth Lee, MD

Kenneth Lee, MD
Modern Spine, PLLC

Spine related issues are among the most common and painful musculoskeletal conditions. Modern Spine, PLLC was established to deliver comprehensive and state-of-the-art care for all aspects of spinal disorders in order to maximize each and every individual patient’s outcome. Dr. Lee is a board-certified spine surgeon, uniquely trained in both orthopedic spine and neurological spine surgery. This dual-fellowship training is rare and considered to be the highest level of spine surgery training.

Dr. Lee’s treatment philosophy is focused on compassionate, conservative, and evidence-based care. Educating patients is of the utmost importance. Dr. Lee and his team strive to spend all the time necessary with their patients to ensure that they have a clear understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of conservative care and possible surgical intervention.

During his time with each patient, Dr. Lee works to develop a genuine relationship based upon trust and mutual respect. In that regard, Dr. Lee has been awarded the Patient’s Choice Award for several consecutive years. He has been featured in the Newsweek “The Science of Healthy Living” issue, in the “Best Doctors in Texas” section. He has also been spotlighted in H Texas magazine’s “Ask the Expert” column and selected as one of the “Super Docs” in Living magazine. In addition, he has been featured on CBS and Fox as a pioneering surgeon using the most modern and minimally invasive spine surgery techniques.

Dr. Lee is actively involved in research projects, as these endeavors help him identify and adopt new technologies and procedures to assist patients in returning to a normal and productive lifestyle. The majority of his patients improve from a multi-disciplinary conservative approach. If surgery is required, the practice specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery, with many procedures performed on an outpatient basis.

Dr. Lee and his team welcome the opportunity to provide you with personalized care using the most successful treatment and surgical options available to relieve your neck and back pain.

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MODERN SPINE, PLLC
16929 Southwest Freeway, Ste. 100
Sugar Land, TX 77479
713-SPINE-DR • ModernSpineTX.com

Meredith V. Morgan, MD

Meredith V. Morgan MD
Women’s Care at Museums’ Gate

As an experienced Board Certified physician and clinical associate professor, Dr. Morgan’s goal is to provide quality medical advice and sophisticated, personal medical care. In considering healthcare from a woman’s perspective and being empathetic to each individual’s needs, the desire is to maintain respect and compassion for each individual patient. Each woman receives the information and education she deserves in a friendly, comfortable, and relaxed environment.

Dr. Morgan has certificates from The North American Menopause Society as a credentialed menopause provider and from The International Society for Clinical Densitometry as a Certified Clinical Densitometrist.

He offers women’s care services emphasizing menopausal counseling, hormone therapy, osteoporosis counseling, bone densitometry testing and analysis; as well as, gynecology, well woman exams, wellness and preventative health, and InBody composition testing and analysis.

Patients always see Dr. Morgan—not provider extenders. Extra effort is made to provide an unhurried atmosphere where patients can talk openly without rushing through their visit. Knowing that each patient’s time is important, the staff schedules appointments accordingly.

The practice is conveniently located in the Museum District near the Texas Medical Center with free adjacent parking. Dr. Morgan has admitting privileges at Houston Methodist Hospital, The Woman’s Hospital of Texas and St. Luke’s Hospital.

Contact our office at 713-795-4145 for more information or visit our website at drmeredithmorgan.com.

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Women’s Care at Museums’ Gate
2 Chelsa Blvd.
Houston, TX 77006
713-795-4145 • drmeredithmorgan.com

Freemu Varghese, MD

Freemu Varghese, MD, FACP
Nephrology

As a Board Certified nephrologist, Freemu Varghese, MD, has been treating Houstonians suffering from complicated hypertension, kidney diseases and complicated medical conditions for more than 20 years. With a practice built not only on experience and expertise, in internal medicine and nephrology, but also on compassion for his patients, Dr. Varghese reaches out to the Houston Medical community by working with nursing homes and outpatient wound care. Certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in Nephrology, Dr. Varghese is also a clinical instructor at Baylor College of Medicine; the Medical Director for Quality Dialysis, Inc; and the Clinical Manager for Renal Access Clinic of Houston, an interventional nephrology practice. He has also served on the Harris County Medical Society Board.

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Diagnostic Clinic of Houston
1200 Binz Street, Ste. 1100
Houston, TX 77004
713-797-9191 • diagnosticclinic.com

George N. Zaibaq, O.D. & ASSOCIATES

George N. Zaibaq, O.D. & ASSOCIATES
Eye Trends

Always at the forefront of cutting edge technology and striving to gain knowledge on the latest Ophthalmic advancements, Dr. George Zaibaq & Associates have earned a reputation as one of Houston’s leading Therapeutic Optometrists. Dr. Zaibaq is a Diplomat of the American Optometry Board who specializes in comprehensive eye care, treatment and management of eye disease, glaucoma and laser vision correction co-management, as well as specialty contact lenses for warped corneas and keratoconus. He is a graduate of the University of Houston College of Optometry and completed his clinical training at the University of Houston Eye Institute and the Hebrew University Hospital Ophthalmology Department in Jerusalem. He completed his Optometric Glaucoma Certification training at the University of Texas Health Science center Houston.

Dr. Zaibaq & Associates are dedicated to providing individualized care and go the extra mile to address their patients concerns. “I cherish my patients’ loyalty and work hard to keep them well taken care of,” says Dr. Zaibaq. Along with his associates, Dr. Veronica Wong and Dr. Aisha Johnson, Dr. Zaibaq & Associates serve patients in the Galleria, Bellaire, Meyerland and Sugar Land areas.

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Meyerland Plaza
238 Meyerland Plaza
Houston, TX 77096
713-771-2020

Sugar Land Town Square
16200 City Walk
Sugar Land, TX 77479
281-265-2000

www.drzaibaq.com

Cathy Herrington Hale

Cathy Herrington Hale
Family Law and Civil/Probate Litigation

Cathy Hale is the founder of The Herrington Law Firm and has represented hundreds of clients since 1998 in family law and civil/probate disputes. She is committed, along with her team of associates and paralegals, to providing quality legal representation to her clients and obtaining the best outcome through trial or mediation. Clients often note her passion for the law, respect in the legal community and accessibility of her firm. At The Herrington Law Firm, you will receive personal service and experienced advocates in the courtroom.

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The Herrington Law Firm, PC
10190 Katy Freeway, Ste. 440
Houston, TX 77043
713-227-0050 • herringtonlawfirm.com

Retreat at the Ranch

Rancho la Puerta, a luxury wellness resort in the Baja region of Mexico, revives and reboots the mind, body and spirit, making for an unforgettable getaway with memories that will last a lifetime.

by Nicholas Nguyen

After months of back-to-back deadlines, you could say that I needed a vacation. Badly. So when I got an invitation to visit Rancho La Puerta, a resort nestled in the hills and valleys in Tecate, Mexico, it was just the ticket I was hoping for.

Little did I know just how different Rancho La Puerta was from the average Mexican getaway. Instead of the usual crowded pools and long buffet lines, the intimate resort is dedicated to wellness, to helping guests relax and recharge through a variety of classes and workshops (that of course, includes plenty of spa time and delicious cuisine). Lovingly dubbed by guests as “the Ranch,” Rancho La Puerta attracts visitors from all across the country, and from Houston, it’s a short flight to San Diego and a quick bus ride across the border.

I would never have known that the city existed around the Ranch unless I hadn’t passed through on the drive in. The lush, green grounds house hacienda-style villas, which are newly renovated and complete with gorgeous views of the hills or one of the resort’s four pools. Immediately, I was truly able to unplug from the rest of the world, especially since the resort only offers Wi-Fi and television in a few select lounges and the lobby.

On that first day, I received a folder that detailed the week’s activities and events; I had chosen to visit during a special Pilates Week. Every single day, there were activities from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.; there were so many options that often I wished I had a time machine so I could try them all. Since science hasn’t made my Back to the Future dreams a reality yet, I took a deep breath and reminded myself that I was also supposed to take this time to slow down. Here’s how I reinvigorated my mind, body and spirit in just one week.

MIND

It’s always hard for me to shut my mind off, but at the Ranch I only had myself to focus on—and no smartphone in sight—so it felt a little easier to let go. Being an artist by nature, I loved the creative outlets at the ranch, which complemented all of the physical activity.

MEDITATION AND HEALING At Rancho La Puerta, there’s no shortage of activities for decompressing and clearing your head. Guided meditation and yoga are obvious choices, but for a unique and tranquil experience, try Sound Healing. A guide plays sounds from large, resonant crystal bowls to help you completely relax and lull you into a stress-free state. At least half of the class participants dozed off midway through the session (which is fine as long as you have a friend who will poke you if you start snoring), but everyone came out of it feeling rejuvenated.

ARTISTIC ENDEAVORS The ranch invites artists and writers to help guests flex their creative muscles. Take a watercolor, sketch, jewelry-making or sculpture class to create your own custom souvenir, which is a nice break from physical activities midday or a good way to unwind after dinner. While I visited, memoirist Larry Grobel (known for his books Conversations with Capote, Al Pacino and The Art of the Interview), led writing workshops that helped attendees dig deep and jot down short, but poignant pieces about their lives.

LIFESTYLE LECTURES During my stay, a few other special guests gave talks on a variety of health-related subjects. Dr. Rubin Naiman, a clinical assistant professor of medicine at the University of Arizona, lectured on how to overcome sleep problems and opened our minds on the science and psychology of dreams. Professor Emerita Beverly Whipple spoke about sexual health and intimacy in a really relatable way.

BODY

In 2016, I started a fitness journey that included learning Pilates to stay healthy and prevent any issues that may come up as I age. Choosing to visit during Rancho La Puerta’s Pilates Week—offered several times throughout the year—was a no-brainer. In addition to the numerous Pilates classes offered, there were so many other workout options—some of which I’d never even heard before! To fuel my active schedule, I ate delicious food, and didn’t skip breakfast once (like I’m guilty of doing at home).

SWEAT SESSIONS There are too many cardio-centered classes to name, but if you want to get your heart rate pumping, Zumba, Cycling or Cardio Drum Dance—where you work your entire body while banging on giant barrels to energizing music—are some great options. After all of that action, cool off in the pools for a few laps, or take it further with a challenging water aerobics class. Even though I had trouble staying afloat and splashed around quite a bit, it was fun because I had taken it with a new friend, Ann Eshabarr, a dance teacher from San Francisco. She summed the exercise program up at the Ranch quite nicely: “The Ranch is like a well-oiled machine. They have made it very easy to navigate the classes even though the property is huge. I learned to take off in the morning with clothing for hiking, swimming, dance and Pilates so I was prepared for everything. I would be walking around and see a class I liked and drop right in!”

MIND/BODY BLISS Jennifer Lee Ho, a teacher trained in many different movement modalities from the Bay Area, led Pilates Week. I took two mat classes from her every morning—she, like many of the instructors at the Ranch, exuded a motivating, warm energy—and learned a lot about pelvic stability. (The Pilates studio at the Ranch also offers classes on the Pilates Reformer and other equipment.) A lot of my fellow Ranch-goers attended classes dedicated to stretching and tried Feldenkrais, which, similar to Pilates reinforces the mind-body connection.

ON THE MENU The Ranch’s all-inclusive program provides breakfast, lunch and dinner, all made with fresh, local ingredients; they even offer cooking classes. Like me, Jennifer has a love for food: “Though fitness is a priority in my life, eating properly (most of the time) is my other joy,” she told me. “It was fantastic to sit down for three organic and tasty meals a day with other interesting guests from all over the world.” Breakfast and lunch are buffet style, while dinner has service. At dinner, Ranch veterans let us in on a secret—you can sample both of the entrée options instead of choosing just one. I’m still dreaming about the fresh fish tacos we had for lunch one day and an amazing eggplant parmesan that was served for dinner.

SPA SERVICES There are separate spas for both women and men, along with two other treatment centers, so there’s no excuse not to treat yourself after a couple days of working out. The spa offers a wide range of massages and facials; I tried the classic Ranch massage with some aromatherapy one late afternoon, a perfect prelude to dinner. The women’s and men’s centers also have lockers for reservation so you can stash your belongings instead of lugging things around or having to return to your room.

SPIRIT

I think the reason the Ranch has been thriving for so long is because of its lingering effect on you, even long after you’ve left. I met so many people who make it a tradition to visit every few years, and even make it a spot for special occasions like weddings, anniversaries and reunions. Mothers who visited the Ranch decades ago return with their daughters to relive the magic all over again. Here’s why.

THE SENSE OF COMMUNITY I think all the classes, from creative to fitness, help people open up. There isn’t a feeling like you’re being judged or a reason to feel self-conscious, like the way you might feel at a large gym, for example. Everyone is there to learn and share. Ann agrees: “I loved the sense of community with my fellow Ranchers. This took place mostly at mealtime, and I found it very interesting and humorous how most guests would tell you how many years they’ve been coming. It was a source of pride. Just for the record, five was a low number. Since I was a rookie, everybody was happy to help me acclimate.”

BONDS THAT LAST I traveled alone, but it was easy to make fast friends like I did with Ann and Jennifer. Many visitors travel with a friend or spouse, but I also met some larger groups, like 13 women who came together to celebrate a friend’s 50th. What was most surprising to me at first was meeting people who first met at the Ranch and now make it their tradition to come back together. Now that I’ve experienced what Rancho la Puerta offers, I understand it better—it’s an experience unlike any other that can tie you to strangers, and together, you forge something new. I will never forget all the laughter with Ann and trying so many new classes with her, nor will I forget the wisdom Jennifer generously imparted. See you soon at the Ranch, Ann and Jennifer! H

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