April 2010 - The Business Lifestyle Magazine Digital Edition by Fort Bend Business Journal

Fort Bend/Katy

Volume 28 • No. 4

THE BUSINESS LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

APRIL 2010

Texas State Healthcare “Hometown Nurses Caring for Hometown People”

FEATURES

n Fort Bend Family Owned Businesses n Spotlight on Travel & Transportation n Spotlight on Private Schools n Fort Bend Golf Courses & Country Clubs INSIDE STORIES

n Build Your Financial Future Yourself n Roth IRA Conversion For 2010 Protect Your Retirement Savings n Missouri City Unveils New Proactive Policing Policies

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April 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Fort Bend Business Journal

Publisher’s Preview by Carolyn Reed

This time it is for real...

The Editorial Advisory Board Jacqueline Baly Chaumette President and CEO Baly Projects, LLC

Louis Garvin President and CEO Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce

Dee Koch Grant Officer The George Foundation

Becky Munnell President and CEO Blue Jungle Marketing

Alan Sandersen Certified Public Accountant Sandersen Knox & Co. L.L.P.

Linda Starr Certified Master Coach Starr/CTC

really am retiring as of this issue of the Business Journal. I guess my getaway attempt back in November of 2008 just wasn’t quick enough. I want to again tell all of you how much I have truly enjoyed working with you. I feel that I have gotten to know most of you and will miss that association. I have made the decision to change directions in my life. I am going to spend some time being a wife, a daughter (my mom is 86 years young), and a grandmother (I have 2 grandsons, Preston age 10 and Patrick age 6). I have enjoyed working with a lot of wonderful people and seeing the Business Journal grow from a tabloid to a wonderful slick professional publication. Thanks to our columnists, our advertisers, our cities and our non-profits, we have seen the journal grow and grow over the years. Thank you Fort Bend Chamber and Louis Garvin for being such a staunch supporter. I am sure with all of your continued support, the Journal will continue to be a premier publication in the Fort Bend Business Community. Hopefully I will have the chance in the future to see and interact with all of you. Stay tuned for further information.

Tim Stubenrouch President First Community Bank

This issue will give you a lot of good information about private schools in Fort Bend County. We also have a feature on Family Owned Businesses which is a huge part of our economy in Fort Bend.

John Whitmore Whitmore Company

Kolbe Curtice CCIM, CLS Curtice Commercial Real Estate

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

Until next month, keep those cash registers ringing. Carolyn Reed

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April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

S Fort Bend/Katy

Cover Story Texas State Healthcare “Hometown Nurses Caring for Hometown People”

pg.

Volume 28 • Number 4 • April 2010

Special Features Fort Bend Family Owned Businesses. ............................................................. Spotlight on Travel & Transportation. ............................................................... Fort Bend Private Schools.......................................................................................... Fort Bend Golf Courses & Country Clubs. ...................................................

21 29 56 74

For subscriptions send check for $25 to Fort Bend Business Journal 4655 Techniplex Dr., Suite 300 Stafford, Texas 77477 281-690-4200 TOLL FREE 1-888-430-7478 www.fortbendstar.com Single copy $4.95

PUBLISHER.................................... Beverly Carter ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER . ................... Carolyn Reed EDITOR ...........................................Sharon Wallingford GENERAL MANAGER............Michael Fredrickson

Inside Edition

MARKETING CONSULTANTS................ Dottie Childs

TWC Recovers $903,554 In 2009 Unemployment Insurance Fraud.................................... 9 UHV Experiences Double-digit Enrollment Growth Rate................................................ 14 Intermodal Center West of Rosenberg Receives Foreign Trade Zone Designation..... 16 Texana Learning Center Bonds Sell at Low Interest Rate................................................ 20 Age-Old Tradition Inaugurates Missouri City’s High-Tech Firefighting Machine ........ 28 What Does It Take To Modify Behavior?.............................................................................. 38

........................................................Ann Sturrock RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST.........................................Becky Hall COLUMNISTS...............................Alan Sandersen ...........................................................Linda Starr ..................................................Tim Stubenrouch CONTRIBUTORS . .............................. Elsa Maxey ..................................................... Cheryl Skinner

2010 Fort Bend County Heritage Award Ceremony............................................................ 72

.............................................................Dori Wind

Roth IRA Conversion For 2010 Protects Your Retirement Savings.................................. 73

ART DIRECTOR.................................Joey Belleza

Missouri City Unveils New Proactive Policing Policies..................................................... 84

GRAPHIC DESIGNER / WEB.............Carlo Arcillas

Perry Forces Budget Cuts For Wharton County Junior College Campuses................... 87

PHOTOGRAPHER...............................Walter Hurst Hurst Photography

M O N T H L Y C O L U M N S

Alan Sandersen Tax Smart Discusses New Tax Provisions Signed Into Law On March 18, 2010............. 8

Linda Starr

Tim Stubenrouch

Certified Master Coach

Money Talks

Discusses Messy Desk? Prioritize...................... 6

Discusses Build Your Financial Future Yourself............................... 10

ON THE COVER

MONTHLY DEPARTMENTS Fort Bend Chamber Newsletter.... 39-46 Newsworthy....................52-54, 70-72 Names in the News..................... 68-69

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

Data Beat..................................... 80-83 Service Directory......................... 88-91 Dining and Entertainment........... 92-95

Connie and H.C. “Pat Fodrie Owners of Texas State Healthcare Cover Photo Hurst Photography

Memorial Hermann Medical Group opens a new practice to serve southwest Houston area residents

emorial Hermann Medical Group is expanding to meet the needs of the rapidly growing communities in and around southwest Houston. A new Memorial Hermann Medical Group led by Ruhi F. Syed, M.D. and Eleanor A. Tennyson, M.D. will be located on the Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital campus. “We are proud to welcome Drs. Syed and Tennyson to Memorial Hermann Medical Group-Southwest,” said Doug Ardoin, M.D., physician-in-chief of Memorial Hermann Healthcare System and president of Memorial Hermann Medical Group. “They bring a wealth of knowledge and experience in family medicine to our growing medical group.” A graduate of the UCLA School of Medicine, Los Angeles, Dr. Syed’s inter-

ests are women’s and pediatric health, preventative care, and family care among others. Dr. Syed is also fluent in Hindi and Urdu. She completed her residency program at Memorial Hermann Ruhi F. Syed, M.D. Southwest Hospital. Dr. Tennyson’s medical interests include family medicine and wellness for adults and pediatrics alike. She is a graduate of the University of Texas Medical School at Houston, and completed her residency with Memorial Family Medicine within the Memorial Hermann Healthcare System. Both Dr. Syed and Dr. Tennyson are board certified in Family Medicine. “Practicing within Memorial Hermann Medical Group will allow Drs. Syed and

Tennyson to focus on each patient’s personal healthcare needs while drawing on the resources, innovations and technological advancements of the neighboring Eleanor A. Tennyson, M.D. Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital,” said Dr. Ernest Bartimmo, medical director of Memorial Hermann Medical Group. The new Memorial Hermann Medical Group-Southwest practice will be located at 7737 Southwest Freeway, Suite 895, Houston, TX 77079. For more information about the new southwest practice, please call 713.456.6800 or visit www.mhmedicalgroup.org. Dr. Syed currently resides in Sugar Land. Dr. Tennyson lives in Richmond.

Get back in the game quickly with our Saturday Morning Injury Clinic. For athletes of all ages, the Saturday Morning Injury Clinic at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital offers complimentary evaluations when weekend game plans take an unexpected twist or bump. Located on the 1st floor of Medical Plaza I, the clinic offers easy access and peace of mind for sports enthusiasts of any age who are unsure about an injury. Full diagnostic and treatment services are also available to get you back to your game or regular activities. Open Saturdays from 9 to 11 a.m. For an appointment, please call 281.725.5333.

17510 W. Grand Parkway South, Suite 100 Sugar Land, TX 77479 memorialhermann.org

April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

COACHING TO INCREASE PRODUCTIVITY

Notes from the Coach by Linda Starr / Starr/CTC

Messy Desk? Prioritize Staring at a stack of papers on your desk that require action? Wondering where to start? Here is my favorite remedy to the paper-covered desk: First, gather them all together into one big stack. That’s right, one enormous pile. Sort - Now, create enough space for three separate stacks just above your single stack of everything. Picking up one piece at a time and assign it a priority of either “A” which means absolutely must be done today, “B” which means best, if done today and “C” could be done today. Sort your entire stack into these three categories.

Clear the Decks - Gather your entire “C” pile and move it off your desk. Odds are that you will not be working on this group today. My favorite place to put this stack is in the lower right drawer of my desk. Next, gather your entire “B” stack and put it out of sight. My favorite place for this group is the middle right drawer of my desk. Now, you are left with only the highest priority items which will require your attention today. Your job is to put them in the order of importance. A-1 goes on top of the stack with the others placed in order of importance as you move deeper into the pile. My favorite place to put this

stack is in the top right drawer of my desk. With all the piles out of site, you have a clear surface to attend your top priority. Pull out only the top item from your “A” drawer and focus your entire attention on it until it is completed. When you complete this task, file it away and go after your next highest priority. Moving all distractions from your line of vision allows you to focus on one thing at a time and will yield enhanced productivity and satisfaction. Linda Starr is this area’s most experienced Productivity Coach. She can be reached at linda@StarrCTC.com.

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Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

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April 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Fort Bend Business Journal

Y O U

A N D

Y O U R

T A X E S

Tax Smart by Alan Sandersen / Sandersen Knox & Co. L.L.P.

New Tax Provisions Signed Into Law On March 18, 2010 This month we are providing an overview of the key tax changes affecting business in the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment (HIRE) Act as enacted on March 18, 2010. Next month’s article will address certain tax and financial aspects of Health Care Reform. Business Provisions Extension of enhanced small business expensing (Section 179). The new law gives a one-year lease on life to enhanced expensing rules, which allow qualifying businesses the option to currently deduct the cost of business machinery and equipment, instead of recovering it via depreciation over a number of years. For tax years beginning in 2010, the maximum amount that a business may expense is $250,000, and the expensing election begins

to phase out when a business buys more than $800,000 of expensing-eligible assets. These dollar limits are the same as those that were in effect for 2008 and 2009. Payroll tax holiday and up-to-$1,000 credit for employers who hire unemployed workers. To help stimulate the hiring of workers by the private sector, the new law exempts any private-sector employer that hires a worker who had been unemployed for at least 60 days from having to pay the employer’s 6.2% share of the Social Security payroll tax on that employee for the remainder of 2010. A company could save a maximum of $6,621 if it hired an unemployed worker and paid that worker at least $106,800—the maximum amount of wages subject to Social Security taxes—by the

end of the year. As an additional incentive, for any qualifying worker hired under this initiative that the employer keeps on payroll for a continuous 52 weeks, the employer is eligible for an additional non-refundable tax credit of up to $1,000 after the 52-week threshold is reached, to be taken on their 2011 tax return. In order to be eligible, the employee’s pay in the second 26-week period must be at least 80% of the pay in the first 26-week period. Workers hired after the date of introduction of the legislation (Feb. 3, 2010) are eligible for the payroll tax forgiveness and the retention bonus, but only wages paid after the date of

ALAN SANDERSEN... continued on page 37

You see the glass half full.

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Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

Different. Better.

TWC recovers $903,554 in 2009 unemployment insurance fraud Statewide effort includes prosecution of 67 individuals in the Greater Houston Area

exas Workforce Commission (TWC) efforts led to more than $900,000 in restitution orders in Calendar Year 2009 as a result of statewide criminal prosecutions for Unemployment Insurance (UI) fraud. These funds will be returned to the Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund from which TWC pays UI benefits to those who lose their jobs through no fault of their own. TWC investigates and refers cases in which UI benefits are obtained through fraud or deception to local district attorney offices. TWC efforts have resulted in nearly $5 million returned to the state’s trust fund over the past three years through prosecutions and settlements. In addition to restitution orders, individuals who commit UI fraud can be ordered to pay fines, perform many hours of community service and some serve jail time. For a list of recent criminal dispositions listed by county, go to www.twc.state.tx.us/ui/

bnfts/prosecutiondispo.html. In the Greater Houston Area, 67 individuals were prosecuted for UI fraud and ordered to pay $382,472 in restitution for fraudulent UI claims. “All Texas employers pay the price when people cheat the system,” said TWC Chairman Tom Pauken. “It is vitally important that we protect this employer-paid fund and preserve it for those who are truly eligible to benefit from it.” TWC’s Regulatory Integrity Division is charged with detecting and preventing fraud, waste and abuse. The division enforces all regulatory statutes within the jurisdiction of the agency, including Tax, Workforce, Trade Act, Skills Development, Self-Sufficiency, Child Care and all other programs that TWC administers. Prevention, detection and elimination of fraud, waste and abuse in the UI program are top priorities, ensuring that funds are available exclusively to those who meet the eligibility requirements.

TWC administers UI benefits to workers who become unemployed through no fault of their own and are actively seeking work. TWC regularly cross matches UI claims with employer wage reports and other databases to detect possible UI fraud. If TWC discovers that claimants have received UI benefits through fraudulent applications, the agency seeks immediate reimbursement of overpayments. Examples of UI fraud include giving false information and failure to report self-employment or other earnings while receiving UI benefits. To report suspected UI fraud, call the TWC Fraud and Program Abuse Hotline at (800) 252-3642. The Texas Workforce Commission is a state agency dedicated to helping Texas employers, workers and communities prosper economically. For details on TWC and the programs it offers in coordination with its network of local workforce development boards, call (512) 4638556 or visit www.texasworkforce.org.

April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Money Talks by Tim Stubenrouch / First Community Bank

Build Your Financial Future Yourself Building on last month’s discussion of personal responsibility for our credit, our next discussion is about taking responsibility for our financial future. We all have financial goals - education for ourselves or family members, home ownership, retirement. How do we reach our goals? We take responsibility for making a financial plan. The first building block is to set our financial goals. Identify your goals, put a dollar number with each, and set a target date to achieve them. Be realistic in the process. Limiting the number of goals we set helps us keep our focus, and putting time frames and dollar amounts with each goal gives us something to measure against. Remember these are goals – not deadlines – and that as goals change we have to be flexible. We build on our goals by developing

a budget. There are two critical things to remember about a budget. The first is that unless it is in written form and not just in our minds, it does not exist. And the second is that unless we live by our budget, it does not exist. With the foundation of financial goals and a budget, we can build by saving. As we live on a budget we will find ways to cut costs. The resulting extra cash flow gives us the opportunity to put money in savings and investments. Consider all options from regular savings to retirement accounts and choose what fits best with the financial goals and you personal needs and preference. The building block beside savings is debt control. Minimize or avoid credit card debt and other loans to finance unnecessary purchases. Protect your identity to be sure

that someone else is not able to incur debt in your name. Taking personal responsibility for our credit will help us build our financial future. These are just the big building blocks in financial planning. More information is available at no charge from the Federal Reserve Bank at www.dallasfed.org – go to Community Affairs and look for “Building Wealth”, and from www.mymoney.gov under Financial Planning. Our financial future is ours to build. Tim Stubenrouch is a Columnist for the Fort Bend Business Journal and is with First Community Bank, N.A., President - Fort Bend, 13135 Dairy Ashford, Suite 250, Sugar Land, TX 77478. He can be reached at 281242-2262, fax: 281-242-1522, or email at stubenrouch@firstcommunitybank.net. H

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Rep. Pete Olson Greatly Disappointed at Passage of Largest Government Takeover in the History of our Nation

ep. Pete Olson today issued the following statement in opposition to passage of H.R. 4872, the Health Care and Education Affordability Reconciliation Act, which passed in the House today: “The legislation passed today increases taxes by $569.2 billion over ten years that will harm small businesses and middle-class families. The bill also includes Rep. Pete Olson $528.5 billion in cuts to Medicare, cutting benefits and raising premiums on seniors. The employer mandate imposes a new tax on business, which will destroy current and new jobs during a time when millions of Americans are already unemployed. “Additionally, this bill will cost the state of Texas an estimated $24 billion in new, unfunded mandates for Medicaid spending over the next 10 years. There will be an unprecedented level of government interference in the choices and quality of care that Americans can expect. This is a continuation of the Obama Administration’s agenda to give the government greater control. It is important to remember that 100% coverage by no means equals 100% access to quality care. “While this bill contains so many bad provisions, the three that stand out are; cost, content and process. This bill has been estimated to cost close to one trillion dollars over ten years- adding billions to our already sky high national debt. In 1965, Congress said Medicare would cost $9 billion by 1990. In reality it cost $67 billion—seven times more than the prediction. If this new legislation hits even half of the real cost overruns of Medicare, our nation will be in grim fiscal straits. “The contents of this legislation will have serious consequences for the wellbeing of Americans. It will place a new tax on certain health plans of middle class families and force small businesses and individuals to pay a penalty if they cannot afford to purchase health insurance. Under this new plan IRS agents will be in charge of verifying if you have “acceptable” health care coverage. The IRS will have the authority to fine you up to $2,250 or 2 percent of your income (whichever is greater) for failure to prove that you have purchased “minimum essential coverage;” and they will be able to confiscate your tax refund if you do not comply. “The process under which the Democrat Majority has brought this bill up for consideration has been wrong from the start. Republicans have not been included in drafting this legislation or amending this legislation even though we have suggestions and ideas on behalf of our constituents. Up to the last minute Democrats were rejecting Republican attempts to amend the bill and minimize the harmful components of this legislation. “However, this isn’t the end of our fight. This bill raises significant constitutional questions and several states, including Texas, have indicated they will challenge this in the Supreme Court. My colleagues and I are committed to clean up this mess and restore choice and freedom for consumers and employers and ensure that all Americans have access to affordable, quality health care.” Paid for by proud Fort Bend County Tea Party members Carolyn Reed & Ann Sturrock April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

UHV experiences double-digit enrollment growth rate

he University of Houston-Victoria’s strong enrollment growth this spring continues a pattern that has made the institution one of the fastest growing universities in Texas. Enrollment climbed 13.2 percent compared with the spring semester of 2009, bringing total enrollment from 3,260 to 3,691 students, according to unofficial numbers. Enrollment rose 12.6 percent from spring 2008 to spring 2009, and 15.2 percent from fall of 2008 to fall of 2009. “UHV has earned a solid reputation as one of the best values in higher education available anywhere,” UHV President Tim Hudson said. “An education is an investment for a lifetime with great rates of return, something worth considering in these difficult economic times.” While it will be several months before final statewide enrollment data is known, early numbers

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show UHV’s enrollment growth compares favorably with other colleges. Angelo State University reported a growth rate of 7.6 percent spring-over-spring, while Texas Tech reported about 5.6 percent growth during the same time period. UH-Clear Lake saw an increase of 6.7 percent, based on preliminary numbers. From the fall of 2004 to the fall of 2009, UHV grew by 51 percent, the second fastest growth rate in the state, according to data from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. The strongest percentage growth at UHV for the current semester came from the School of Arts & Sciences, which saw student enrollment increase by about 20 percent. “We’ve worked very hard during the last few years to create several innovative new master’s programs that can’t be found anywhere else in this region, like our new publishing degree,” Dean Jeffrey Di Leo said. “Those efforts are now bearing sweet fruit as students are taking advantage of these new opportunities.” The School of Education & Human Development enjoyed the second highest growth rate of slightly more than 11 percent. “We’ve gained a solid reputation as a place that equips students to be excellent teachers, counselors, administrators and educators,” Dean Lawrence Rossow said. “When you combine that with our flexibility that allows working teachers to continue their education and a faculty and staff who are just wonderful at giving students personal attention, growth naturally follows.” The School of Business Administration, the largest school at UHV, saw enrollment grow by almost 11 percent. “Smart entrepreneurs and business managers can thrive in any economy if they have the right skills,” Dean Farhang Niroomand said. “A growing number of people are learning they can get those skills at UHV. Our internationally accredited business degrees are designed to meet the needs of working professionals, which also makes us a popular choice among those seeking promotions within their current fields.” The UHV School of Nursing limits entrance into its programs to certain semesters during the year but continues to see strong demand for student admission. “Our enrollment is well above what we originally projected it would be by the spring of 2010,” founding Dean Kathryn Tart said. From fall of 2009 to spring of 2010, the school grew by 32.8 percent overall. The

new Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing program grew by 155 percent from fall of 2009 to this spring. UHV saw its strongest enrollment growth, 20 percent, in graduate enrollment, which rose to 1,880 students. Undergraduate enrollment grew by 7.3 percent to 1,811. “We’re seeing many professionals coming back to school to update and enhance their skills to be more competitive in a tight job market,” Hudson said. “This is a very wise decision on their part and will continue to improve the quality of their lives long after the economy begins to boom again.” Hudson predicted an upcoming spike in undergraduate enrollment. “Undergraduate enrollment could see a tremendous jump in the fall when our FIRST 200 freshmen and sophomores arrive and usher in a new era in the history of this university,” Hudson said. “I want to thank all our faculty, staff and community partners who have made all of this growth possible. Without their tireless efforts and deep commitment, none of this would be possible.” After 37 years as an upper-level institution offering junior, senior and master’s degrees, UHV was granted permission in 2009 to expand to a full destination university. “Our future looks very bright indeed,” Hudson said.

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Intermodal center west of Rosenberg receives foreign trade zone designation

A GOOD SIGN EVEN IN TIMES LIKE THESE.

U.S. Department of Commerce expands foreign trade zone to Fort Bend County

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Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

INSURER

he U.S. Department of Commerce recently approved expansion of the Port Freeport Foreign Trade Zone to include two sites along U.S. Highway 59 in Fort Bend County, including the new CenterPoint Intermodal Center – Houston Metro in Rosenberg. A joint venture between Kansas City Southern (KCS) and Chicago-based CenterPoint Properties (CPP), the CenterPoint Intermodal Center consists of 630 acres and sits directly adjacent to the newly-opened Kansas City Southern Railway intermodal shipper facility, which will be used to receive, store and disburse by rail and truck containerized cargo across Texas, other parts of the U.S. and Mexico. “This new center is potentially the largest economic development project in Fort Bend County and its surrounding communities throughout the next decade,” said Barkley Peschel, VP of Development and Operations of the Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council. “The approval of the Foreign Trade Zone makes this site more competitive with intermodal centers within Texas and other Barkley Peshcel adjoining states. In addition, the direct access to Mexico will provide new opportunities for partnerships with Mexican manufacturers.” Currently under construction, the logistics park can accommodate more than seven million square feet of industrial space and has the potential to create up to 2,000 new jobs and hundreds of millions of taxable investment for the region. The second site that received FTZ designation fronts the south side of U.S Highway 59 between FM 360 and Darst Road and is owned by GBI International. With U.S. offices in Houston and Irvine, California, GBI has proposed to develop an international business center on its 340 acres of land. “GBI has extensive success with foreign trade zones and their business contacts in Asia will be tremendous assets to the future recruitment of business to Fort Bend County,” said Jack Belt, VP of Development and Marketing for the Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Intermodal Facility near Kendleton. Council.

“We do more” at IBC BANK

exas-based IBC Bank’s philosophy, “We Do More,” is the impulse behind the convenient banking service that is provided to the Fort Bend community on a consistent basis and at a time when it is most needed. IBC entered the Greater Houston Area in 1997 with five branches. With a successful operating strategy in place, IBC now operates 43 branches, including 6 in Fort Bend County. As a continued part of our ‘Do More’ commitment, many IBC locations offer seven-day banking. This allows us to effectively serve our customers with the convenience of extended hours, allowing for account management, deposits and expanded access to bank personnel and lenders. IBC’s management consists of strategic leaders who offer customer-focused

Darron Drago Senior Vice-President

advice and community-minded direction. Andrea O’Neill, vice president and area manager in Fort Bend and Wharton counties, including Richmond, Sugar Land, Wharton and El Campo, has 10 years of experience in banking and branch management. Because of the commitment to staying abreast of local trends, lenders can ensure loan and investment decisions are made by knowledgeable professionals who are well-equipped to meet the banking needs of unique to their community. IBC-Houston is a member of Texasbased International Bancshares Corporation (NASDAQ: IBOC), an $11.7 billion multi-bank financial holding company headquartered in Laredo, Texas, with 280 facilities and more than 440 ATMs serving 104 communities in Texas and Oklahoma.

Jeff Samples President

Jay Rogers Chairman and CEO

Delores Hansen Senior Vice-President

Craig Bunk Senior Vice-President

Tradition of Trust. With more than 40 years of experience, reliability and commitment to the community, IBC Bank’s sustained strength and stability are second to none. Let us show you how you can use our expertise to help your business succeed. Stop by IBC Bank and talk to us, or better yet, call us and we’ll come see you.

713-526-1211 • www.ibc.com

April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

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Fort Bend/Katy

4655 Techniplex Dr. Suite 300 Stafford, TX 77477

Fort Bend Business Journal â&#x20AC;˘ April 2010

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Texana Learning Center bonds sell at low interest rate – a bond rating for that may be the best nationwide By Elsa Maxey

onds for additional funds to build a new Texana Learning Center facility and a service building in Rosenberg to replace the one in Sugar Land have been sold, “and at a very low rate of interest,” said George Patterson, Chief Executive Officer of the Texana Center. He said that for the Centers that expressed an interest in participating in a new Texas Council Pooled Loan Program, the Texana Center volunteered to be a trial-balloon for financing under the new bond structure. Fred R. Cornwall, President of Municipal Capital Markets Group, Inc. in Dallas informed area organization officials that the Texana Learning Center probably has the highest bond rating of any MHMR center in the country. Municipal Capital Markets Group, Inc. is a registered broker/dealer that specializes in providing long-term financing through the issuance of municipal bonds. It originates tax-

exempt and taxable municipal bond issues, and lends the money for capital expenditures. The bonds that were sold for the Texana Center are rated A1 by Moody’s Investors Services. For the bond issuance, the interest rate is fixed for a 30-year term of the loan at an average rate of 5.262%. This rate is considered to be low because of the A1 bond rating. “We believe that our new structure can be replicated for most every MHMR Center in Texas,” said Cornwall in a communication to Texana. Texana began operations in 1999, following a merger of two other healthcare organizations. It is headquartered in Rosenberg and reports an annual operating budget of over $35 million ($35,300,000) with a staff of 560. Texana serves about 4,000 individuals monthly providing behavioral healthcare and developmental disabilities services administered from locations in six counties - Austin, Colorado, Fort Bend, Matagorda, Waller and Wharton Counties.

The center is designated by the Texas Department of Aging and Disabilities Services as the local mental retardation authority and by the Texas Department of State Health Services as the local mental healthcare authority. It maintains sizeable performance contracts with state agencies, and is funded with state general revenue to provide services under those contracts. The center also provides services to those with Medicaid, private insurance, and managed care, and is the largest provider of home and community-based services in the state of Texas. A 501(3) public, non-profit organization, the Texana Center is a member of the Texas Council of Community MHMR Services, the National Council for Behavioral Healthcare Services, and Mental Healthcare Corporations of America. Dianne Wilson of Fort Bend County volunteers her time to the organization and is the Chair of a 9-member board of trustees. In her official capacity, Wilson is the Fort Bend County Clerk.

Preparations underway for 2010 Fort Bend County Fair & Rodeo

he 74TH Annual Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo will take place September 24th through October 2nd at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds in Rosenberg. The Fort Bend County Fair Board of Directors work all year long preparing for this annual event. Taking over the reins this year are the newly elected 2010 Fort Bend County Fair Officers: Elizabeth Duff-Drozd – President, William Carter – President Elect, Russell Gibson – Vice President, Brad Bowman – Secretary and Don Dulin – Treasurer. Collectively, these officers have over 20 years of experience as directors for the Fair. For 2010, the Fort Bend County Fair is going green! President Elizabeth Duff Drozd announced this year’s theme, “Conserve Our Resources, Provide for Our Future,” and the going green initiative. “In order to move efficiently forward, we need to protect our resources. We will be moving toward this goal by utilizing more recyclable items. Our hopes are to recycle aluminum, paper, plastics, cardboard, grease and animal waste. Through our recycling project, the Fair Association will save money which will mean more dollars for scholarships.” In 2009, the Fort Bend County Fair generated over $700,000 from auctions that was returned to the youth of Fort Bend County. Additionally, over $87,000 was awarded in scholarships to Fort Bend

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

The 2010 Fort Bend County Fair Officers: Vice President Russell Gibson, Secretary Brad Bowman, President Elizabeth Duff Drozd, President Elect William Carter and Treasurer Don Dulin.

County students pursuing a higher education. Drozd reminds everyone, “September will be here sooner than you realize. The board is hard at work making plans for a fantastic and exciting fair this year. This is one fair that you don’t want to miss!”

Fort Bend Family Owned Businesses

Life’s short, eat good ice cream

outhern Ice Cream is a family owned and operated ice cream wholesale and special events business in Stafford. Mike and Sharon Johnston purchased the company in 2006 from a close friend who was once an original Good Humor ice cream man. Mike has been in the ice cream business for over 30 years and is using his knowledge and his experience to grow the vending and special events business. The ice cream business is his heart and soul and he involves every member of his family! Their daughter Michelle relocated from California to join the business in 2007 and help with the special events and marketing. When Ike devastated the Houston area in 2008, Southern Ice Cream was asked to be the FEMA hub for the area, which stored and distributed water, food, ice and even ice cream to lift spirits. Mike and Sharon Johnston were rewarded for their efforts as the grand marshal’s of the Stafford Fourth of July parade! Southern Ice Cream distributes a large variety of Blue Bunny, Good Humor, and Blue Bell single serve ice cream novelties. They also specialize in dry ice and bagged ice and food service items such as 3 gallon premium ice cream and specialty ice cream desserts. They cater for any occasion that would like to have ice

Mike and Sharon Johnston

cream, such as corporate events, birthday parties, school events and much more and have added snow cone syrups and supplies to compliment your special event services. They are open 7 days a week to the public, so please go by and visit them in Stafford or check out their website at www.southernicecreamtx.com!

Life’s short, eat good ice cream

• Push Cart Rentals for Special Events Birthday Parties • Corporate Events Ice Cream Socials • Blue Bunny, Good Humor and Blue Bell Ice Cream • Ice & Snow Cone Supplies Available 13755 Greenland Dr.

281.499.9837

www.southernicecreamtx.com Email: michelle@southernicecreamtx.com April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Fort Bend Family Owned Businesses

How can the market go up from here?

t seems that as investors, our default setting is to assume the worst possible outcome. When the Dow was at 7,500, some professionals said we were going to 5,000, and when it broke through 10,000, they said we were in a false rally that would ultimately end with a “double dip.” No one knows the direction the market will go in the short term; to claim otherwise is to be foolish, arrogant or both. However, we do know what the driver of the stock market will be over the long term: earnings. Investors will ultimately judge a company by its ability to generate excess cash flow. This can be done in two ways: either through cost containment or revenue expansion.

During the last two years, businesses have been combing through their budgets looking for every ounce of savings available. Unfortunately, this has led to a high unemployment rate, but it also means that companies are running at maximum efficiency. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2009, productivity rose by 5.8 percent, while output declined by only 0.2 percent. This means that companies are making the most with what they have, and that a decrease in labor costs has not led to a significant decrease in production. This puts businesses in great financial shape for moving into the future. But where will the growth come from? The developed world (US, Europe, Japan) is weighed down by debt and consumers

Providing fee-only services to individuals, families and businesses since 1996. (281) 634-9400 • www.wjinterests.com

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

are reducing debt and consumption. That leaves the developing economies to pick up the slack. As countries such as China, India and Brazil continue to develop a middle class, those people are going to demand certain services and products. Do they have the capacity to purchase these things? The Chinese currently save about half their income. They have the ability and American companies are positioned to serve those demands. We have the technology, workforce and financial savvy to provide what the world wants. WJ Interests is a fee only financial planning and investment management firm in Sugar Land. For more information, please contact us at wj@wjinterests.com or 281634-9400..

Fort Bend Family Owned Businesses

Providing QUALITY Promotional Products/Wearables in a TIMELY Fashion and at a FAIR Price! 281-208-1100

Fax. 281-208-1111 BsnssSpirit@aol.com www.BusinessSpirit.com

Since 1980

Susan Hargarther President

435 B-1 FM 1092 #224 Stafford, TX 77477 • Travel Kits • Calendars • Stress Relievers • Rulers • Duffle Bags

Showroom (by Appt.) 2839 Hwy 90 • Stafford

• Coffee Cups • Caps • Jackets • Shirts • Food Gifts

• Golf Items • Umbrellas • Eco Bags • Chairs • Pens

• Calculators + over 485,000 more items to choose from on our web site.

Real estate agents that SELL HOMES advertise them in The Star H Local Agent H Local Advertising H Local Results

281.690.4200 4655 Techniplex Dr. Suite 300 • Stafford, TX 77477

April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Fort Bend Family Owned Businesses

From Bagels to Bathtubs – The Miracle Method Barnetts

ort Bend and Southwest Houston homeowners and businesses have a bathroom and kitchen makeover solution that won’t break the bank and takes as little as 48 hours from start to finish. It’s called surface refinishing by Miracle Method, and it’s a beautiful, durable and affordable alternative to expensive and messy removal and replacement of bathroom fixtures and kitchen countertops. Some Fort Bend residents may remember Paul and Jonee Barnett as the couple who served them breakfast at Manhattan Bagel in Sugar Land for over seven years. But in early 2003, the Barnetts sold the bagel shop and opened a Miracle Method Surface Refinishing franchise. It may seem like a big leap from bagels to bathtubs, but “customer service is what drives any business that we are involved with”, says Jonee. “So it doesn’t matter if it is bagels or bathtubs, we provide exceptional service to our customers. They know they can count on us to show up on time, pay attention to detail and save them a lot of money on their home makeover.” “It doesn’t make sense to rip out a perfectly good bathtub and tile or a kitchen countertop just because it was worn and dated. We can restore the existing surface and change colors on almost all bathtubs, tile, sinks, showers, vanities, and even kitchen countertops,” adds Paul. “The results are truly remarkable!” Whether it’s porcelain, ceramic tile, Formica®, fiberglass or cultured marble, we can repair and restore most bath and kitchen surfaces in as little as two days. Miracle Method’s latest innovation is Natural Accents™, a finish that gives countertops the look of natural stone at a fraction of the cost of granite or manmade solid surfaces. Homeowners can say goodbye to knife cuts, burns, chips and outdated colors, and it only takes a couple of days, not weeks. “The Natural Accents™ stone look finish,” says Jonee, “really adds the WOW

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

factor to kitchens and works equally well on laminate, tile, Corian™ and cultured marble surfaces. It’s not only becoming the hottest new look for countertops, but is also being used on bathroom tile walls, vanities, and tile floors. You really have to see it to believe it!” Is the Miracle Method a new process? No... homeowners as well as apartments and the nation’s largest resorts and hotels, from Hilton to Disney, have used Miracle Method’s proven refinishing process over the past 30 years. In fact, Miracle Method’s process is regularly featured on DIY’s show Bathtastic and on HGTV’s Carter Can. While there are other refinishing processes, only Miracle Method uses the company’s proprietary non-acid bonding agent, MM-4. “We will not bring dangerous acids into anyone’s home or property,” says Paul. “Not only is the acid etch process dangerous to those applying it, but it does not work as well as MM-4.” It is MM-4 and attention to detail that enables Miracle Method to offer a 5-year warranty against any peeling or failure of the new finish. With regular care and maintenance, a homeowner should enjoy 15 years or more from a surface refinished by Miracle Method. “Refinishing,” says Paul “is also a green remodeling alternative. We not only save homeowners money, but keep perfectly reusable bathtubs, fiberglass showers, vanity and kitchen countertops from clogging landfills.” Jonee Barnett handles marketing and sales for the family-owned business, while Paul is in charge of field operations along with their three technicians, Carl, Mike and Patrick. Call 281-240-2284 for a free estimate. To see pictures of refinished bathtubs, tile and kitchen countertops, log on to www. MiracleMethod.com/houstonsw.

Fort Bend Family Owned Businesses

Kitchen and Bath

Surface Refinishing at its Finest! Colors and styles for every décor!

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Our stone look finish will transform your existing countertops from tired to inspired!

See more at MiracleMethod.com

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We’re Going to Save You Money! For 50%-75% less than replacement, Miracle Method can restore your existing countertops and bathtubs to like-new...in less than 2 days! Quality and value have made us the preferred refinisher for nearly 30 years. Give us a call today to schedule a free consultation and estimate. NEW SHOWROOM! 5020 Mark Dabling Blvd. 1/2 mile north of Garden of the Gods Rd.

719-594-9091

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Licensed and insured. Each franchise independently owned and operated.

April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Fort Bend Family Owned Businesses We offer a wide variety of services related to your printing needs. From simple one-color to complex full-color work, you can depend on us. Below are a few of the many printing services we perform.

47 Years of Service Complete Corporate Solutions from purchasing to marketing departments.

• Graphic design and complete prepress/troubleshooting assistance • Stationary (business cards, letterhead, envelopes, notepads, etc.) • Flyers • Newsletters (business, neighborhood) • Brochures (small tri-fold, large fold-overs) • Cataloges • Invitations and programs • Specialty items (posters, business forms, door hangers, etc.) • Full bindery (folding, stitching, collating, etc.)

COMING MAY 2010 ISSUE

281-240-1313

550 Julie River Dr. • Suite 310 Sugar Land, TX

Special Feature

Fort Bend GO GREEN Deadline April 15

To Advertise Call 281-690-4201 26

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

Fort Bend/Katy

Fort Bend Family Owned Businesses

Home of the silent sales representative

n 1978, Bob and Susan met while working together at a major bank in downtown Houston. After they married, Susan moved to another institution as an Bob Hargarther administrative assistant to the president because Bob’s position did not allow his spouse to work in the same bank. After two years of unhappily working apart, they sought another career that would allow them to work together again. After researching five types of franchises, they elected to purchase a Kwik Kopy Printing Center in downtown Houston. That business grew and soon they added four more centers to their burgeoning organization. They found themselves in the roles of staff and production management – not their original intent. Bob and Susan wanted to work directly with their clients on special projects. After 25

years in the printing business (and some promotional product services as well) they completed their contract with the franchise. They purchased Business Spirit Inc in 1995 and ran it as a part time business, going full time in 2005. They still offer their printing services, but promotional products and wearables are the main thrust of Business Spirit. Today Susan, as president, owns and operates Business Spirit, Inc out of her office/showroom in the Cash Building in Stafford. She recently named Bob the director of her International Marketing Division. Susan Hargarther Oh yes, about the silent sales rep: every product/wearable that the Hargarthers deliver to their clients is like a sales rep screaming for business. Your name, logo, what you do and contact info can be seen in elevators, at the bank, in a restaurant,

Cash Building in Stafford, Home of Business Spirit

or at a Little League game, all selling your business without you having to say a word. The Hargarthers are often seen at various networking, chamber, social, and non-profit functions throughout Fort Bend County. This is truly a family owned and operated business with a simple mission … ....to provide quality promotional products/ wearables in a timely fashion at a fair price.

Hyatt Place Sugar Land celebrates topping out

ake a good look at the beam construction workers hoisted into place March 24 as Hyatt Place Sugar Land tops out. That piece of steel might seem silver, but it is decidedly green. Hyatt Place Sugar Land is being built with cold-forged steel framing, a material that is made of at least 25 percent recycled content and is itself 100 percent recyclable. Using steel framing rather than lumber or concrete is earth-friendly in other ways, too: • Building with steel results in less waste at the construction site, reducing scrap from 20 percent with lumber to 2 percent with steel, according to the Steel Framing Alliance. • Steel resists mold and insects such as termites and carpenter ants; lumber does not. • Steel does not off-gas or emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). • Steel is lighter than wood, so transporting it uses less fossil fuel. • The lighter weight reduces requirements for the hotel’s foundation, meaning a smaller building footprint and less disruption of envi-

ronmentally sensitive areas. A topping out ceremony marks the completion of a building’s highest point. Hyatt Place Sugar Land is a nine-story structure, and that point is 107 feet above ground. The 214-room hotel is expected to open in early 2011 and will be the first newly built Hyatt Place in the Greater Houston area, and at 214 rooms, it will be one of the largest properties to open in the fast-growing Hyatt Place brand. Hyatt Place Sugar Land will have a fresh, contemporary look that blends seamlessly with the Lake Pointe Town Center development and makes the most of a scenic location on the 37-acre Brooks Lake. The first Hyatt Place hotel opened in 2006, and it quickly has become a top hotel brand. Corporate travel buyers named it No. 1 for overall price/value relationship, in-room amenities, business amenities and business center in the Business Travel News 2010 U.S. Hotel Chain Survey. Other recent accolades include “Best Hotel Chain Value” in Entrepreneur Magazine’s 2009 Best in

Business Travel Awards and 2009 “Best Hotel Chain for the Buck” from Health Magazine. Woodbine Development Corporation of Dallas and a subsidiary of Hyatt Hotels & Resorts of Chicago formed a joint venture to develop the hotel on 3.7 acres along Brooks Lake. Woodbine also owns Hyatt Place Phoenix/Gilbert, which opened in 2009.

Woodbine Development Corporation recently celebrated the “Topping Out” of the Hyatt Place Sugar Land in Lake Pointe Town Center. (l-r) King Scovell, director of development ventures for Woodbine Development Corporation, City of Sugar Land Council Members Russell Jones, Jacquie Chaumette and Don Olson and Richard Morgan, senior VP of owned and managed operations for Hyatt.

April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Age-old tradition inaugurates Missouri City’s high-tech firefighting machine

tradition going back to the days of the horse-drawn fire trucks is still going strong in the “Show Me City” and was celebrated recently to inaugurate a gleaming high-tech firefighting machine built for the future. A “Wetting Down” ceremony for Missouri City’s new “hybrid” fire vehicle was held March 9 at Fire Station #1 on Cartwright Road. About 30 people attended the event, which featured a firefighter wetting the new truck with water from a fire hose to symbolize the way a horsedrawn fire truck was washed years ago. Firefighters handed out towels and those in attendance used them to help wipe the truck clean. Several people symbolically helped to “back up” the truck into the fire station by pushing it. The action is similar to the way horse-drawn carriages were pushed into fire stations because the horses could not go in “reverse.” The new “hybrid” truck ushers in a new firefighting era. It combines a fire engine and a ladder truck into one vehicle. Its outstanding feature is a 105-foot aerial ladder that was raised to its full extension high in the sky at the ceremony and a firefighter climbed to the top. “It’s designed especially for Missouri City to take us well into the future, with its capabilities to reach multi-story buildings,” said Fire & Rescue Service Chief Russell Sander. “The fire truck cost $803,000 and the equipment an additional $103,000. It holds a 2,000-gallon per minute fire pump, 500 gallons of water, a 20-gallon foam tank, several fire hoses totaling 2,350 feet and several ground ladders reaching a total of 159 feet.”

After the ceremony, members of City Council and the public had a chance to ride in the new vehicle. It is stationed at Fire Station #1 on Cartwright Road in Missouri City. It is already on the streets being used in the City.

Fire Chief Russell Sander showcases Missouri City’s new “hybrid” fire truck for residents. Mayor Pro-Tem Jerry Wyatt, left, also spoke at the dedication, sharing the support of Council for the purchase of the hightech firefighting machine.

Annual Police and Fire Auxiliary fundraiser yields $15,000 for Missouri City’s finest

T Photo courtesy of Missouri City

Left to right: Amy Robinson and Susan Rosen, members of the Missouri City Police and Fire Auxiliary, kept track of items up for auction at the annual fund-raising event held on March 12 at the Community Center on Texas Parkway.

he Missouri City Police and Fire Auxiliary’s annual fund-raising dinner, dance, and live and silent auction event was a big success. Approximately 400 tickets were sold for the March 12 fund-raiser, which brought in about $15,000 this year. In its 24-year history, the auxiliary has raised about $350,000 for the Police Department and Fire & Rescue Service. “It’s always special for police officers and firefighters to receive the unfettered support of the community they serve. We often view these jobs as thankless, but that definitely is not the case in our city due to the overwhelming support from our citizens,” Police Chief Joel Fitzgerald said. “Our residents show their dedication to community involvement by enrolling in the Citizens’ Police and Fire Academy, sponsoring Police and Fire Auxiliary events and volunteering for Crime Watch pro-

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

Photo courtesy of Missouri City

Among those looking over items that were up for bid at the annual Police and Fire Auxiliary fund-raiser were Warren and Pamela Leibman of Missouri City. This year’s event raised about $15,000 for both departments.

grams. I would personally like to thank them for their continuing support.” The funds are used to purchase additional equipment for the public safety departments, allowing them to better serve the citizens of Missouri City.

Spotlight on Travel & Transportation

Amazing Australia – A must visit for everyone By Dori Wind

ustralia is an amazing island, continent, country and a must visit for everyone. It is anchored amidst the Pacific Ocean, the Coral Sea, the Indian Ocean and the Great Southern Ocean. Whether you are a back packer, a luxury seeker, a mountain or bridge climber, an environmentalist, a scuba diver, a wine connoisseur, or just looking for an unforgettable vacation, Australia has it all. And, if you happen to be a southpaw, you will definitely be at home in this country. As one friendly Aussie at the airport informed my husband and me upon our arrival in Sydney, “Cars are driven on the left side of the road, light switches are turned on backwards, and the toilet water swishes from left to right. That’s why they say, ‘We come from Down Under.’” Two major Australian cities, Sydney and Melbourne, were recently listed in the top five Happiest Cities in the World according to the 2009 Anholt-GfK Roper City Brands Index. The index is the brainchild of Simon Anholt, who created his Nation Brands IndexSM in 2005 to measure the public perception of countries and cities. (Fort Bend County is a branding locality). The data was compiled from online interviews with 10,000 respondents in 20 countries. A perception of happiness is a strong incentive on the balance sheets of cities that depend on conventions, tourism and an influx of talent. In Australia, perception is definitely a happy reality. Not only do the people speak English, are polite, friendly and helpful, but the scenery is magnificent and no one can complain that life is boring. On a whirlwind Mob of Kangaroos in Melbourne park.

Sydney Opera House in Sydney Harbor

tour of four major cities in four of the six different states - Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and New South Wales - in 12 days, you experience a little bit of everything. Depending on your budget, you can visit Australia on a tour package (most expensive); you can have a travel agent like Swain Tours (www.swaintours.com) book hotels, airlines and some tours (less expensive); or you can learn as we did that all you need is your flight there and first hotel and then book the rest in Australia (much cheaper); or you can backpack through the country (very inexpensive). While the Australian dollar was actually worth less than the American dollar, the cost of living can be expensive in Australia. One Krispy Kreme donut goes for $3.20 Down Under and I was a little surprised to see all the people with a dozen boxes in their hands, which would represent an investment of at least $36.00 for donuts. Having grown up with Krispy Kremes I had to splurge on one, but for the price and quality I actually found that the scones, gelato, and TimTam cookies were at least as satisfying as the expensive donuts. American fast food places, including Subway, Kentucky Fried Chicken, McDonalds, Hungry Jack’s (home of Australia’s Whopper), as well as pubs, tea rooms and open air markets are plentiful throughout the country. Restaurants and

hotels can be found in all price ranges. If you get to Adelaide (named for a former English queen), there is a great Greek Taverna, moderately priced, with the best lamb ever served on a plate. We began our trip in Melbourne, exploring on our own for the first half-day before we fell asleep from jet lag exhaustion. The next day we joined an experienced nature guide, Roger Smith, www.echidnawalkabout.com.au, for a “Walkabout” tour of You Yangs Park, a wildlife preserve, where we explored Aboriginal sacred rock sites of the Wathaurong Tribe. Our guide explained how the people used fire to dig pits in the rocks so they could send signals, and also showed us handmade flint tools. He explained that children are brought to the sites today to still practice the native customs. We learned how to walk beside a “mob” of kangaroos so they would neither run-off, nor attack us; and to spot “furry footballs” (otherwise known as Koala bears) in the trees. After visiting the wildlife preserve, we decided to explore the frontier towns of Bendigo – noted for its discovery of gold in 1851 and Echuca where the Mighty Murray River (akin to our Mississippi) flows. Echuca was featured in the movies, “Where All the Rivers Run” I & II. We took a paddleboat continued on page 34

April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Spotlight on Travel & Transportation

Prepare vehicles before road trips to reduce or eliminate emergencies By Cheryl Skinner

undreds of families will travel by automobile this summer for the annual vacation and preparing for the trip is essential to a safe journey. The American Automobile Association says it responds to almost 7.4 million breakdowns every summer. Making preparations to be prepared for a roadside break down is essential to a good trip. The most important thing is to take care of the basics. That means check your oil, fluids, and tire pressure. If you drive a long distance when any are low you’re asking for trouble. Second, get your ride ready for your chosen terrain. A lot of people do not realize that a trip through the mountains put a totally different kind of stress on the automobile than a trip across country on flat terrain. Here’s a brief rundown of the steps to take, depending on location:

Colony One takes pride in their shop appearance.

Beaches Clean the underside of your hood. There’s probably salt and grime build–up leftover from winter. Added salt from sea air can damage electrical connections, and the fuel and brake lines. Wash and wax your vehicle with a UV protective to guard it from the sun.

Mountains Check your brakes and replace worn pads. Your breaks will overheat on the down side of the mountains as can be attested to by all those trucks and cars parked on the side of the road. Replace old wiper blades in the event of wet mountain weather. Test your battery’s remaining charge and check for corrosion. Desert Flush your coolant and replace it with a fresh supply. Used coolant loses a lot of its protective properties and can cause overheating. Inspect your belts and replace any that have significant cracks.

Rod Tate & Rick Hanson

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

Test your AC Make sure your tire treads aren’t worn. High heat can be brutal on old and new tires alike. Make an emergency box for the trunk for potential problems. What should you have on–hand in case you do run into trouble? : Fresh bottles of coolant, engine oil, and water (to mix with the coolant), jumper cables, a flashlight, and radiator hose clamps, a screwdriver, pliers, and a roll of electrical tape, a jack and a lug wrench, flares or reflective sticks, a towel to clean up with and water in plastic jug. Come see us before you hit the road for the summer vacation at 1131 Dulles Ave., Stafford, TX 77477, across from Riverbend Country Club, 281-908-4000. Check our website at colonyoneauto.com.

Spotlight on Travel & Transportation

Getting your car ready for Summer Travel? ...Don’t ASSUME the family car is as ready to go as you are, call 281-980-4440

• Complete automotive service and repair • Over 167,000 vehicles serviced since 1991 TNRCC Emission Repair Approved

Check our website at www.colonyoneauto.com

281-980-4440

1131 Dulles Ave. • Stafford, TX 77477 Across from Riverbend Country Club

FREE SHUTTLE SERVICE AVAILABLE COUNTYWIDE April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Spotlight on Travel & Transportation

Anson Aviation adds mobility to Fort Bend lifestyle

he much-desired Fort Bend lifestyle depends on convenient, enjoyable and flexible mobility. Anson Aviation, located at Sugar Land Regional Airport, adds an exciting dimension to this mobility by equipping Fort Bend County residents to use personal airplanes for business and pleasure travel. According to the president of Anson Aviation, Dana Atkinson, “We offer a number of top-quality services including flight training, but we are really a lifestyle business. Our mission is to give our customers everything they need to enjoy the thrill of flying and to use personal airplanes for practical transportation. Our customers fly themselves, their families, and their business associates to destinations from the Florida Keys to Colorado. They do it on their schedule, at their convenience, and without big-airport hassles.” Imagine driving a few miles to your award-winning local airport, walking directly to your personal airplane without long security lines, and departing to your destination when you are ready to go with no concern about airline schedules! That’s the lifestyle available in Fort Bend County at Anson Aviation. If you’re traveling for a family vacation, then the fun begins when you get to the airport. If you’re traveling for business, you can fly directly to local airports near your business appointment, conduct several meetings in one day, and be home for dinner.

COMING MAY 2010 ISSUE

According to Atkinson, “Our customers love flying and they also demand first-rate services. Everything about our business plan is focused on providing that level of quality in everything we do.” Anson Aviation offers training programs that are specifically approved by the FAA, a distinction that few flight schools achieve. They also meet the rigorous quality standards of Cessna Aircraft Corporation to hold the elite status of a Cessna Pilot Center. Anson Aviation and Sugar Land Regional Airport provide exciting mobility to Fort Bend County’s distinctive lifestyle. Anson Aviation is located at 12888 Highway 6 South, Suite 300, Sugar Land, Texas 77498 • www.ansonair.com.

Special Feature

SUMMER

Fun

Deadline April 15

To Advertise Call 281-690-4201 32

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

Fort Bend/Katy

Spotlight on Travel & Transportation

A nson A viation

12888 Highway 6 South • Suite 300 • Sugar Land, TX 77498 Sugar Land Regional Airport • www.ansonair.com • 281-242-2555 • 281-242-4984 fax

April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Spotlight on Travel & Transportation wide semicircle to stay in your lane, something unknown to American drivers. While in Adelaide, we attended an “On the Fringe Festival” in the local park. The downtown area reminded me of Miami’s South Beach, with numerous restaurants, bars and partiers. While in Adelaide, we flew to Kangaroo Island for a day trip to Seal Bay to observe the Australian sea lions’ nesting areas. Kangaroo

Remarkable Rock on Kangaroo Island

continued from page 29 ride on the river and the contrast between our boat of the 1870’s and the sleek new houseboats that dot the shores created a memorable contrast. I’m glad the steam boats are still around, but it sure looked like good living on one of those houseboats! Our next stop was Adelaide via Virgin airlines. We thought about driving between the two cities, but the left-sided roads were a bit much. A left-sided turn includes an extra

Rescued baby wallabies in Kuranda.

Island is where the continent separated from Antarctica, and where, we are told, the first free men, not prisoners, came to settle in Australia. As we climb down to see the sea lions, the weather suddenly becomes windy and freezing. To warm up, we head off to lunch and the obligatory hot tea and scones. We have lunch in Vivonne Bay and then continue on to Flinders Chase National Park, internationally renowned as a sanctuary for a host of native Australian animals – kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, echidnas, and goannas. In the park we climb down specially constructed walkways along the rugged southern coastline to Remarkable Rocks, Admirals Arch and the New Zealand black fur sea lions. The Remarkable Rocks are aptly named and truly extraordinary. The wind, rain, sand, and ocean waves have sculpted, painted, etched and carved these mammoth rocks into incredible shapes and forms. The sea lions have a great time playing on them. In recent years, Australia has become known for its wines, so we travel to the Barossa Valley for a day of wine tasting. We find an excellent sparkling rose and white

Had Enough? Long airport commutes. Fewer flights. Higher costs. Longer lines. Packed aircraft. Dwindling services. Hidden fees. Needless time away. The Solution:

Founders Aviation, Houston’s turnkey aviation services provider ensuring your company’s business travel increases productivity, eliminates needless time away, achieves your strategic objectives, and enhances your bottom line. Our services commence with in-depth consulting designed to discover what program is the right fit for your needs: • We assess your company’s travel history, and how our programs would achieve you business growth • Provide unbiased advice regarding productivity benefits, financial options, and tax & legal structures, unique to your requirements • Direct aircraft acquisition, ensuring that the aircraft has the innovative technology that takes your office airborne • Manage your aircraft operations and maintenance, including scheduling, accounting, and all logistics

The Shortest Distance to SUCCESS Call for more information on wholly-owned or shared ownership programs with facilities at Houston Executive Airport in Katy, Texas

281.497.3249 or 800.945.1880 www.FoundersAviation.com

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

Spotlight on Travel & Transportation wine to our liking, and then our guide suggests we also visit Maggie Beers, the Martha Stewart of Australia’s, Market store, where we taste jams, jellies, scones, chutney’s, crackers and more. From Adelaide we fly up to Cairns to visit the Great Barrier Reef. Seeing the reef is truly a highlight of our trip, especially since we are told how delicate this ecosystem is and whether it will continue to last. “Do not step on the reef or touch the coral,” we are warned. “You will be killing a living organism.” We put on our snorkeling gear and swim out to join the living aquarium beneath us. Our cruise ship, the ‘Ocean Spirit,’ a luxury 105 ft sailing vessel, is equipped with a submersible vehicle that takes us down through the reef. Giant clams, multi-colored fish, neon fish, stag coral, tabletop coral, and plant-like coral wiggle and wave in the water. It is an incredible sight. While in Cairns, we also take a skyrail ride over the top of the rainforest to Kuranda, high up in the mountains. Here I hold a baby wallaby and kangaroo that have been rescued by humans when their mothers were hit by cars. From Cairns , it is on to Sydney, the largest city in Australia, where we have relatives. The relatives have planned a trip to the Blue Mountains (so named because the eucalyptus trees have an oil that evaporates and clothes the mountains in a blue haze) at a quaint bed and breakfast. The next morning we are off mountain climbing, spotting a myriad of birds, strange looking lizards, waterfalls, and gorgeous scenery. Sydney is a complex city of beautiful harbor scenery, innovative architecture in the Opera House, many bridges, huge skyscrapers, and seventeenth century ornate government buildings. It is reminiscent of a clean, beautiful, much less populated New York City. In order to keep

it that way, the people of Australia are presently engaged in a debate about stabilizing its population through birth control and decreased immigration. Before we leave the country, we have one last great adventure- we climb the Sydney Harbor Bridge. It is breathtaking and we are rewarded with a picture and a certificate of this most memorable feat. One day we will return to Australia- simply because it is one of the happiest and most beautiful places on earth.

Aboriginal Art in local gallery.

Business aviation makes sense at Founders Aviation

oes it really make sense to own and operate a business aircraft? Let’s check the facts. Did you know that the approximately 85 percent of companies that own corporate aircraft are small or mid-sized businesses? Leaders and managers understand that achieving and maintaining success in today’s economy requires faster response, smarter deployment of resources, productive use of personnel, and the flexibility to be where customers are when they need you. In a 2009 study conducted by NEXA Advisors, S&P 500 companies that utilized corporate aircraft showed annual earnings growth 434 percent higher than peer-group companies that did not. Additionally, EBIT growth was 81 percent higher, EBITDA growth 32 percent higher, total stock and dividend growth 252 percent higher, and share price growth 156 percent higher than S&P 500 peer-group companies without corporate aircraft.

Most business travelers are keenly aware that commercial travel is much more challenging: fewer flights, higher costs, crowded seating, longer lines, elimination of basic services, and significantly reduced productivity while away. Increased security screenings ensures even more hassles and longer waiting times just to check in. Further, over 24 percent of commercial flights are delayed or cancelled, causing further unpredictable impacts on the efficiency and costs of doing business. If you think your company can’t afford corporate aircraft, think of what not owning one is costing you. The majority of business destinations are now located secondary markets without access to commercial airlines. Employees often end up with additional travel time, incurring overnight costs that could be eliminated with the flexibility of corporate aircraft. Additionally, when making last minute travel plans, or when meetings require the expertise of multiple team members, business aircraft offer a substantial savings over commercial fares.

Founders Aviation is an aviation services provider that works with your leadership team to review current and future operations, travel history, and business goals to determine whether business aviation offers the right solution for your business’s growth. They are experts at uncovering uses that enhance productivity and reinvigorate efficiency. Then, if a business aviation solution makes sense, Founders provides unbiased guidance through acquisition and financial implementation; recommending tax and legal structures that support your bottom line. Their turnkey services include managing operations and maintenance, scheduling, and all associated logistics; maximizing your asset’s value while minimizing your headaches. For a consultation or information about turnkey, wholly-owned or shared ownership programs that enable your team’s airport commute to be as close as the Houston Executive Airport in Katy, call Founders Aviation at 281.497.3249 or 800.945.1880 or visit www.FoundersAviation.com.

April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Doctors perform first robotic nephrectomy at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital

ethodist Sugar Land Hospital is pleased to announce that Drs. Henry Pham and John Boon are now performing minimally invasive surgery that may spare kidney cancer patients an increased risk of life-long dialysis. Using the recently acquired da Vinci® S Surgical System, Dr. Pham and Dr. Boon, urologists on staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, can remove the tumor affecting the kidney and leave the healthy tissue. Patients can then often avoid the increased risk of organ failure that results from having a single healthy kidney.

Dr. Pham and Dr. Boon performed the first robotic nephrectomy in Fort Bend County on patient Michael Gann, leaving him with a barely visible scar and a quicker recovery time. In the largest study to date, researchers at the Washington University School of Medicine in Saint Louis concluded that da Vinci nephrectomy is a safe and effective approach to kidney cancer treatment. “This robotic-assisted, minimally invasive approach may not only provide patients with excellent short-term cancer control, but for select patients, it may help them keep their kidney and avoid increased risk for life-long dialysis,” said Dr. Pham.

John Boon, M.D. and Henry Pham, M.D.

Will you develop Osteoarthritis of the Knee?

early half of Americans will develop painful knee osteoarthritis over their lifetime, suggests a large government study. In obese people, the potentially debilitating disease will strike nearly two out of three (65%). It is the nation’s most frequent cause of disability. With osteoarthritis, cartilage — a rubbery tissue at the end of bones that allows joints to move easily — breaks down. “The knee contains a small amount of fluid that lubricates the cartilage,” explains Timothy Sitter, M.D., board-certified orthopedic surgeon, with Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas. “If you have osteoarthritis, this fluid does not work as well. The knee can become painful, stiff and swollen.” Factors that increase your risk of developing osteoarthritis of the knee include: • Heredity — Some genetic mutations may play a role. • Weight — Weight increases pressure on the knee joint. • Age — The ability of cartilage to heal itself decreases over time. • Gender — Women older than 50 are at higher risk than men.

• Trauma — Previous injuries to the knee (including repetitive stress injuries) can lead to osteoarthritis. Protect Your Knees “Many people are unaware of the seriousness Timothy Sitter, M.D. of arthritis and the impact it can have on their lives,” says Dr. Sitter. “But the statistics point out the need for Americans to learn about arthritis and take action to prevent the problems that knee osteoarthritis can cause and to reduce its occurrence.” Steps you can take to head off knee osteoarthritis or minimize its effects include: • Control weight. “If you already have symptoms, losing 15 pounds can cut knee pain in half,” Dr. Sitter says. “Maintaining a healthy weight can lower your risk of developing knee osteoarthritis.” • Become active. “It’s a common misconception that physical activity can worsen arthritis,” Dr. Sitter states. “The opposite is true. Physical activity can help decrease symptoms of osteoarthritis.” • Learn techniques to manage your arthritis. A self-help program offered by the Arthritis Foundation has been shown to lead

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

to a 40% reduction in pain. Ask your doctor what you can do to manage the pain and challenges of arthritis. • Use pain medications. Your doctor can recommend over-the-counter or prescription drugs that can help relieve pain so you can stay active. Seek Medical Help - If pain becomes too severe or doesn’t respond to more conservative treatment, surgery may help you regain a normal lifestyle. Contact Dr. Timothy Sitter, an experienced joint reconstructive surgeon, at Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas at 281-494-MOST for a consultation. Free Seminar Learn more about osteoarthritis of the knee and treatment options for mild to moderate knee pain at a free seminar presented by Dr. Timothy Sitter. Join Dr. Sitter on Wednesday, April 21, at 6 p.m. at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital in conference room BC. Register today by calling 800-451-2006, ext. 3335 or visiting www.managingosteoarthritis. com. Please reference course ID # TX-0421. For more information on Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, visit www. MethodistSugarLand.com or call 281-2747500 for a physician referral.

Study co-authors reviewed data from 183 patients who underwent da Vinci nephrectomy at four centers between 2006 and 2008. Of the tumors removed, 69% were malignant and 2.7% of these showed positive surgical margins – meaning there was cancer at the edge of the specimen – a sign that the cancer may not have been taken out completely. “A da Vinci nephrectomy is comparable to both the open and laparoscopic approaches in terms of cancer control, but with minimal recovery time,” said Dr. Pham. “I expected to be in the hospital two to three days and out of work for several weeks,” said patient Michael Gann. “To my surprise, I was home the very same day with my family, and I was very pleased with the fast recovery time. I was back to

work in five days and had a much smaller scar than the normal kidney removal scar. All of this would not have been possible without the state-of-the-art technology that Methodist Sugar Land Hospital provides for our community.” Da Vinci’s advanced level of technology takes surgery beyond the limits of the human hand. “This acquisition compliments our goal of extending minimally invasive surgery to the broadest possible base of patients,” said Becky Chalupa, Associate Chief Nursing Officer. “It can be used for a multitude of procedures, including, but not limited to: prostatectomy, hysterectomy, myomectomy, coronary artery bypass, mitral valve repair and colorectal surgery.” Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is initially planning to use robotic surgery for

gynecological, colorectal and urological surgeries. The robot has created much excitement for many physicians who are looking forward to being part of the robotics team. “The robotics program is a continuation of Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s commitment to bringing the medical center home to Fort Bend County, as well as finding and applying the most precise, most beneficial surgical techniques to put patients on a quicker road to recovery with better outcomes,” said Dr. Pham. To make an appointment with Dr. Pham, Dr. Boon or other specialists using robotics technology, call Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s physician referral line 281274-7500 or visit MethodistSugarLand. com.

ALAN SANDERSEN... continued from page 8

the new law’s enactment receive the exemption for payroll taxes. Here are some additional features of the new hiring incentive: • The tax benefit of the new incentive is immediate. It puts money into a business’ cash flow immediately, since the tax is simply not collected in the first place. •n The tax benefit generally applies only to private-sector employment, including nonprofit organizations—public sector jobs are generally not eligible for either benefit. However, employment by a public higher education institution would qualify. • There is no minimum weekly number of hours that the new employee must work for the employer to be eligible, and there is no maximum on the dollar amount of payroll taxes per employer that may be forgiven. • For workers that would otherwise be eligible for the “Work Opportunity Tax Credit,” the employer must select one benefit or the other for 2010—no double dipping. • An employer can’t claim the new tax breaks for hiring family members. • A worker who replaces another employee who performed the same job for the employer is not eligible for the benefit, unless the prior employee left the job voluntarily or for cause. • For the hiring to qualify, the new hire must sign an affidavit, under penalties of

perjury, stating that he or she has not been employed for more than 40 hours during the 60-day period ending on the date the employment begins. • The incentive is not biased towards either low-wage or high-wage workers. Under the measure, a business saves 6.2% on both a $40,000 worker and a $90,000 worker. • The payroll tax holiday does not apply with respect to wages paid during the first calendar quarter of 2010, but the amount by which the Social Security payroll tax would have been reduced under the payroll tax holiday provision during the fist calendar quarter is applied against the tax imposed on the employer for the second calendar quarter of 2010. • The Act creates a similar new set of rules permitting a payroll tax holiday for railroad retirement tax purposes. • The credit for retaining qualifying new hires is the lesser of $1,000 or 6.2% of the wages paid by the taxpayer to the retained worker during the 52-consecutive-week period. Thus, the credit for a retained worker will be $1,000 if, disregarding rounding, the retained worker’s wages during the 52-consecutive-week period exceed $16,129.03. However, the credit is not available for pay not treated as wages under the Code (e.g., remuneration paid to domestic workers). Governmental Provisions

Direct payment option for certain tax credit bonds. State and local governments have the ability to issue special purpose tax credit bonds for school construction, energy conservation and renewable energy. The federal government subsidizes these tax credit bonds by providing investors in these bonds with a federal tax credit in place of interest that would otherwise be payable on the bond. In lieu of providing investors with federal tax credits, the new law allows issuers of qualified school construction bonds, qualified zone academy bonds, clean renewable energy bonds, and qualified energy conservation bonds to elect to receive a direct payment from the federal government equal to the amount of the federal tax credit that would otherwise be provided for these bonds. The impact of this act will depend on the nuances of various industries impacted. For specific information on key provisions or any other aspect of the new act please do not hesitate to call. Upcoming Next Month – Tax and Financial Impact of Health Care Reform on Businesses and Individuals. Alan Sandersen is a columnist for the Fort Bend Business Journal and partner Sandersen Knox & Co, L.L.P., Certified Public Accountants. He can be reached at 281-242-3232. www.sktx.com. H

April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

What does it take to modify behavior?

hat if we could motivate our children to study more for school, or we could motivate ourselves to exercise every day, or we could motivate our neighbors to participate in functions? What if you could work in a pleasant environment free of criticism from and fear of your supervisor? What would it take to change people’s behavior? Most of the public would be surprised to learn that there is a science of behavior called Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and the professionals with graduate degrees in this science, called Behavior Analysts, actually do know how to help people change behavior. It’s a field that is very under-utilized in spite of being around since the 1930’s when Dr. B.F. Skinner expanded the general methodological precepts and expectations that define science, to the study of behavior. ABA uses objective experimentation to learn principles of behavior which can then be applied to individuals in a way to change behavior and maintain those changes. For those who study ABA it is very exciting and awesome how people can be helped. It’s also frustrating that as a society we don’t turn to ABA to address the numerous social and individual challenges we increasingly face. Unfortunately the strength of ABA, science, is the greatest barrier to getting people to attend to it. When it comes to behavior, the general public prefers to think that it is all about personality and secrets of the soul which are hidden from man’s consciousness. The thought of scientific study of behavior conjures up visions of stern men in white coats peering and poking at defenseless people being forced to behave in ways they do not choose. We are in desperate need for massive public education on the truth about ABA and the implications of using what we know about behavior to improve the lives of people. There is much we can learn by understanding why people do the things they do. The Behavior Analyst knows how to change behavior without resorting to punishment or aversive techniques. Wouldn’t it be nice to be able to get your teen-age child to comply with your requests without having

to scream or threaten to take the car away? Studying behavior doesn’t make it any less human, it simply allows us to have effective interventions. Every individual is just that, an individual, with individual motivations and pleasures. ABA can work with people to arrange their environment in a way that allows them to achieve their goals. Through the study of behavior we know how children learn the basic skills that are necessary for everyone to live within a society, such as how to independently toilet, talk, follow directions, socialize, etc. When a child does not learn these skills like everyone else, parents and teachers will typically put a lot of effort into working with the child trying to help them learn by repeating the same general teaching methods that have worked for everyone else. What the child needs, however, is not more of the same but a systematic intervention to help them as an individual learn. A Board Certified Behavior Analyst would break the skills down into small learning steps and use specific behavioral principles including shaping, prompting, differential reinforcement, etc. to actually teach and change the behavior. It’s possible and it’s frustrating to the Behavior Analyst to see children and families continue to struggle when it is not necessary. A two year old who is developmentally falling behind his typical peers can be taught enough, using what we know through ABA, to catch up and be indistinguishable from his peers. By the time a child is fourteen he has fallen too far behind to be able to learn enough and although he can still learn a lot, he will always have intellectual and developmental disabilities and will need assistance his entire life. Over the years, ABA has been used effectively to improve the lives of many people, including those with traumatic brain injury, mental retardation, schizophrenia, and autism. It has also been used very successfully to improve job performance, reduce weight, stop smoking, and gain medication compliance. ABA is effective in changing behavior and yet people continue to put energy into trying to overcome problems without drawing on the science that could help them. It’s like trying to overcome an infection without

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

taking an antibiotic; will it maybe work? Maybe, but it may take a long time and it will probably come back again, whereas if you would have used the antibiotic initially you could be healthy today. Do most children learn through our standard family and educational environments, and are most adult successful enough in their daily lives? Sure, but most people also have hearts that beat very regularly. If their heart starts beating irregularly they don’t need to just try harder, think positively, or consult with someone whose heart does beat regularly, they need to go to an expert who has advanced knowledge about hearts – a Cardiologist. If a person struggles with learning or with a behavior they cannot change, they need to go to someone who has advanced knowledge about behavior – a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Dr. Skinner was disappointed in his last years and wrote several papers on why our society continues to struggle with issues that ABA could address. It’s all about changing behavior and interestingly enough a Behavior Analyst can actually explain why it’s so hard to get people to even look at ABA. What a different world it would be today if we would all embrace the science of behavior. We have all embraced the science that allows us to have cell phones, computers, and the cures for many illnesses. It’s time for us to present ABA to the public, because those who experience it are excited about it and see the many applications that would greatly benefit individuals and our society. Christie Enzinna is the Manager of the Texana Behavior Treatment and Training Center, supervising 9 Board Certified Behavior Analysts who provide ABA treatment to individuals with Christie Enzinna autism and/or mental retardation. To learn more about Applied Behavior Analysis go to the international professional organization, www.abainternational.org or the Texas organization www.txaba.org or the Houston area Lone Star ABA, david.whitcher@ texanacenter.com.

I L L U ST R A T I O N B Y A L L I SO N M E R R I W E A T H E R

Upcoming Chamber Events

April 21-25, 2010 A Sugar Land-Houston Celebration www.TheGrandWineAndFoodAffair.com www.facebook.com/thegrandwineandfoodaffair

www.FortBendChamber.com April 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Fort Bend Business Journal

Thank You To Our Renewing Members 1 Year American Property Tax Service, Inc. Ali A. Gilan, 281-240-0101 Bekins Moving Solutions, Inc. Lois Sassin, 713-779-4100 InterLinc Mortgage Dixie Sanders, 281-494-5626 2 Years First Community Bank, Missouri City 281-778-0098

Newmark Homes Houston, LLC Mike Moody, 713-346 0200 7 Years Crossmark Development & Construction, LLC Jeffrey A. Anderson, 281-313-1383 Glen E. McClure, Ph.D. Glen McClure, 281-494-6800 Miracle Method Surface Restoration Paul Barnett, 281-240-2284

Holiday Inn Southwest @ 59 S. & Beltway 8 Kay Hall, 281-530-1400 3 Years MDN Enterprises II Jennifer Flanery, 979-387-3180 The Original Trolley Company Annette Murray, 281-491-4911 Sugar Cycles Kyle Davenport, 281-261-2900 4 Years Danny Nguyen Commercial Danny Nguyen, 713-572-4657 Primrose School of Greatwood Bill Brown, 281-343-8889

8 Years All Seasons Storage Centers Greatwood Terry Arledge, 903-597-6400 The Millis Group, Inc. Mark W. Millis, 281-343-1400 RE/MAX Southwest Realtors Curtice Warren, 713-303-1111 SIA Consulting Susan Ashley, 713-304-2119 9 Years Amica Mutual Insurance Company Johnna Maxwell, 800-532-6422 Southwestern Insurance Center Wayne Poorman, 281-342-0444

11 Years Coldwell Banker United Realtors Marta Mohan, 713-851-2241 Fort Bend County Robert J. Kern, 281-238-3290 Safari Texas Ranch-Texas Ballroom Allison Wen, 281-277-7888 Wharton County Junior College Betty A. McCrohan, 979-532-6400 12 Years PGAL Paul Bonnette, 713-622-1444 13 Years Amegy Bank of Texas Mary Gayle Brindley, 281-494-9712 American Red Cross Sandra Startz, 281-342-9480 Bank of Texas - Sweetwater Blvd. Darrell Pevoteaux, 281-693-8750 Exchange Club of Sugar Land Patrick Welsh, 281-343-0444 TeeRoo’s Private Label Beverages Mark Poley, 281-242-6444 14 Years Auto Central-Automotive Service & Sales David Fauvelle, 281-499-9684

Wallace Bajjali Development Partners Costa Bajjali, 281-768-6700

10 Years First United Methodist Church Missouri City Dr. Lynne Settlemyre, 281-499-3502

5 Years Champion Contractors of Texas Brent Mikeska, 713-898-9817

The Houstonian Golf & Country Club Matt Barger, 281-340-7278

Julius Metals Julius Deitch, 281-499-6400

6 Years Fishers of Men Lutheran Church Jerry McNamara, 281-242-7711

Murphy Road Self Storage Gloria McClellen, 281-208-5623

Memorial Hermann Credit Union Tom Rogers, 713-456-5300

Sugar Lakes Family Practice Houston Community Bank -Stafford John Pozzi, 281-565-2800 Jeff Smith, 281-208-2111 Wal-Mart Linens by Lisa Desiree Melchor, 281-403-5000 Lisa Anhaiser, 281-498-0021

Chick-fil-A of Sugar Land Brent Kubala, 281-494-3800

Pan Tech Engineering Corporation Jim Murrill, 281-240-1220 Steve Fuqua Homes Steve Fuqua, 281-980-1010

www.FortBendChamber.com 40

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

Thank You To Our Renewing Members 15 Years Fort Bend Baptist Academy Pamela Jacobsen, 281-263-9175 IDC Inc. Jim Gonzales, 713-541-5591

20 Years Houston Automobile Dealers Association Walter Wainwright, Jr., 281-980-3434 Fort Bend Family YMCA Gladys Brumfield, 281-499-9622

16 Years First Tire & Automotive Craig Popp, 281-980-2666 Fort Bend Republican Women’s Club Linda Hancock, 281-341-6662 Keller Williams Southwest Judith Leather, 281-265-0000 RE/MAX Southwest Realtors Jeanne Gregory, 281-344-8918 17 Years Rozell Realty Michael D. Rozell, 281-980-9100 Stephen De Young, MD Vianne De Young, 281-494-1314 19 Years Fort Bend Real Estate Corporation E.G. (Bud) Friedman, 281-242-2200

22 Years Charlton’s Auto Sales and Body Repair Chuck Charlton, 281-499-1126 Living Improvements Roland Younger, 281-499-7000 Sandy McGee’s Restaurant & Catering Sandy McGee, 281-341-9151 Truitt Insurance Agency Jim Truitt, 281-499-5499 23 Years The Arc of Fort Bend County Laura LaVigne, 281-494-5959

Ronald Rich, DDS Ronald Rich, 281-980-2537 24 Years KenWood & Associates, PC Kenneth J. Wood, 281-243-2300 Lockwood, Andrews and Newnam, Inc. Anthony Boyd, 713-266-6900 27 Years Pate Engineers, Inc. Jeff E. Ross, P.E., 713-462-3178 28 Years Helfman Ford, Inc. Nason M. Feldman, 281-240-3673 Will K. Blakemore, PC Will K. Blakemore, 281-240-2727 37 Years CenterPoint Energy Steven Greenley, 281-561-3201

Freedom Automotive Services, Inc. John Miller, 281-499-4797

austin • bush • calvary episcopal • clements • dulles • elkins • foster • hightower

Fort Bend Investment in Youth Luncheon

Tuesday, April 13, 2010 11:30am -1:15 pm Safari Texas Ranch - Texas Ballroom 11627 F M 1464, Richmond

r Individual Ticket $30 r Corporate Table of Ten $350 r Scholarship Fund Donation $_____ Please contact David Crowl at 281.491.2497 or david@fortbendcc.org

kempner • lamar • marshall • needville • stafford • terry • travis • willowridge www.FortBendChamber.com April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Fort Bend Chamber Membership

The following firms have realized the importance of economic growth and development for the Fort Bend County area. They have pledged their support to the cause by investing their time and efforts in the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce. Please support your community by calling on these organizations when you have a need for products and services.

Welcome New Members Ace Merchant Processing LLC Behzad Ali 12869 Capricorn St Stafford,TX 77477 877-680-4223 Financial Services Action MMA David Crews 12621 West Airport, Suite 800 Sugar Land,TX 77478 281-277-0431 Health & Wellness David M. Rosen, Architect AIA David Rosen 4203 Alcorn Glen Lane Sugar Land,TX 77479-3257 281-731-8862 Architects Excel Urgent Care Sandra Orlando 6840 Hwy 6 Missouri City,TX 77459 281-778-3660 Medical Clinics

Computer Business Solutions Liberty Mutual Insurance Donna Shelton 2725Q Town center Blvd. North, Sugar Land,TX 77479 281-494-2700 Insurance Providers National Care EMS Brian Steinberg 13228 Brookside Sugar Land,TX 77478 713-309-0579 Ambulance Transportation Pete & Shorty’s Pete Gilbride 16549 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land,TX 77479 281-313-7383 Restaurants PMB Helin Donovan Mickey O’Neal 1330 Post Oak Blvd., Suite 1600 Houston,TX 77056 713-513-7150 Financial Services

Fastteks on site computer service Chuck Nwabuoku 14131 Berrington Dr. Houston,TX 77083 713-443-5657 Computer, Sales & Service

Servpro of Sugar Land Natalie Hart 740 Industrial Blvd Sugar Land,TX 77478 281-313-1338 Insurance Restoration Services

Southwest Surgical Center Cathy Brown, RN, MSN 6350 Hwy 90A, Suite 700 Sugar Land, TX 77498 281-494-6903 Health Care Spartan Wealth Management Keith Borgfeldt 16400 Kensington Dr. Sugar Land,TX 77479 281-491-2821 Financial Services Sweetwater OBGYN Associates Terri Morales 16545 Southwest Freeway, Suite 150 Sugar Land,TX 77479 281-242-1400 Physicians, OB/GYN WalkerCom, Inc. Christian Jacoby 2213 Garden Road Pearland,TX 77581 281-997-5705 Telecommunications ZK Homes, LP John Kirksey 4723 Ingersoll Houston,TX 77027 713-715-1454 Home Builders

Friendly Computers Store #2001 Anthony Gruetemacher 4787 Sweetwater Blvd Sugar Land,TX 77479 281-961-0051

www.FortBendChamber.com 42

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

March Milestone Members 20 Years

Houston Automobile Dealers Association Fort Bend Family YMCA

15 Years

Fort Bend Baptist Academy IDC Inc.

10 Years

First United Methodist Church Missouri City The Houstonian Golf & Country Club Murphy Road Self Storage Sugar Lakes Family Practice Wal-Mart

5 Years

Champion Contractors of Texas CUTT

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The Language Factory 4751 Lexington Blvd. M issouri City, TX 77459 281.530.5520

The Language Factory is a language education facility in the Sugar Land area that prides itself on the ability to provide superior instruction in Spanish, French, English, Arabic, Hindi, and Chinese. Courses vary from Adult Programs and Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Classes to tutoring and customized lessons to fit corporate needs. The Language Factory maximizes the learning experience by sporadically taking students out of the classroom, and into real life settings to demonstrate progress. Whether in the school, in a French cooking class, or at a Mexican restaurant, the growth made is obvious. Now is always the best time to learn a new language, The Language Factory will help you reach that goal!

www.FortBendChamber.com April 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Fort Bend Business Journal

RIBBON

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Pete & Shorty’s Kitchen & Tap 16549 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.313.7383

Pete & Shorty’s, Inc., of Clearwater, Florida, announced the opening of a new Pete & Shorty’s restaurant in Sugar Land, Texas on March 1, 2010. This nostalgic restaurant is a spot to gather for meals, drinks and conversation. The menu includes comfort food, signature dishes and our world famous Shorty Burgers. Pete and Shorty’s will also become an instant hit for crowds looking to have a little fun. “Our bar has the feel of stepping back in time from the tacky chic décor to the value pricing which will make you want to belly up to the bar and share a story or two” says Pete. Pete & Shorty’s also boasts a great outdoor bar and patio to accommodate smokers.

Post Oak Bank

1600 Highway 6, Suite 150 Sugar Land, TX 77478 713.449.1360

Post Oak Bank is pleased to announce the opening of its Sugar Land branch at 1600 Highway 6 South, Ste 150, conveniently located near Highways 6, 59 and 90. Staffing the bank is Barry Beard, Executive Vice President; Jean C. Goff, Vice President; Lynn Howell, Assistant Vice President; and Linda Lucas, Teller Supervisor. “It feels great to be part of a bank that is positioned to expand with the community, and we are appreciative of the tremendous response the community has given us upon our return. Our entire staff lives in Fort Bend County and we are thrilled to be home,” Beard said. “People can expect to have personal attention here and customer service is our first job”

Primarily Kids Pediatric Dentisty 8840 Hwy 6, Suite 140 Missouri City, TX 77459 281.778.0543

Lisa McGriff-Metz received a Bachelor of Science from the University of Notre Dame. Next, she attended the University of Maryland at Baltimore to earn a DDS degree and complete an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency. She then obtained her pediatric specialty certificate at Bronx – Lebanon Hospital Center in New York. She is a board certified pediatric dentist, and she looks forward to welcoming your children to Primarily Kids Pediatric Dentistry. Their beautiful new office was designed to meet your child’s comprehensive and emergency dental needs. They emphasize education while providing exceptional clinical care and customer service. They try to make it easy for your child to enjoy every visit and want to come back. Visit their website today at www.primarilykids.com or call 281-778-0543.

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

RIBBON

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Skin Perfect Aesthetics, LLC 1935 Lakeside Plaza Drive Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.491.0413

At Skin Perfect Aesthetics you can expect an integrated approach to age management that uses bio-identical hormones with everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s individual needs in mind. They have a physician directed weight loss program with proven results with a range of treatments to include food sensitivity testing to prevent obesity, Tumescent Liposculpture, with little downtime and no general anesthesia. They have safe and effective non-invasive laser treatments for all skin types for Skin Rejuvenation and Laser Hair Reduction. Injectables will give 10 years or more back to your appearance. Their Physician Assistant, Jillian Graham is highly motivated and trained with the latest and greatest approach to aesthetics and Integrated Medicine. Call Skin Perfect Aesthetics at 281-491-0413 for your complimentary consultation and start your youthful journey today.

Sugar Land Medical Associates 14815 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.565.2140

Sugar Land Medical Associates was established to be known for providing compassionate quality healthcare to all those they serve by offering a continuum of services and continuity of care that will enhance the health status and meet the growing needs of their community. They are committed to maintaining the highest level of professional standards of practice which respects the cultural diversities and experiences of individual families. They opened our doors May 31, 2007. The practice provides a wide range of healthcare services for the entire family from age 6 and beyond. Dr. Reichman has been in practice in the Stafford-Sugar Land area for over 30 years. His specialty is Family Practice and he is board certified in Lipidology. Dr. Peringol and his family have moved back to Sugar Land and his vast experience in Family Practice, Emergency Medicine, Urgent Care, and interest in Sports Medicine opens the doors to a variety of patients that may be seen either for illness or well-being. He is board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine. Please visit their website to get more information on the practice and their physicians at http://sugarlandmedicalassociates.com or call 281-565-2140 for details.

April 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Fort Bend Business Journal

FORT BEND

LEADERSHIP F O R U M

The Fort Bend Leadership Forum presents the opportunity to enhance your value personally, professionally and as a community stakeholder. This ten-month program, August through May, consists of monthly sessions and retreats covering a wide variety of topics. For more information visit FortBendChamber.com, or contact David Crowl at 281.491.2497 or david@fortbendcc.org.

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS! 46

Fort Bend Business Journal â&#x20AC;˘ April 2010

The State Bank of Texas the community bank that “keeps on keeping on”

lthough we were caught in the middle of a bad financial crisis and banking practices that community banks just do not involve themselves in, the crisis certainly has had a negative effect on community banks too. But we keep doing what we do best. As always, we will continue to stick to our conservative principles and still do better for our customers than the mega banks. As always, community banks will continue to work closely with their borrowers and offer loan products that they can afford to repay. We will continue to provide uncomplicated products and services…

COMING MAY 2010 ISSUE Deadline April 15

Fort Bend/Katy

basic banking services. And although the crisis has trickled down to community banks, we are surviving. Not as great as we would like to but we are still here giving our customers what our customers need. We will continue to offer products that meet the needs of small to mid-size business owners and the uniqueness of community lenders who understand those needs. We offer local services, quick responses to our borrowers, and best of all, that ongoing direct contact with our customers. Have we been tested? Of course we have! Yes the crisis has been felt. And while many community banks are gone, most of us continue to do what we do best, and our customers have stuck with us. They know that community banks will remain loyal to their customers and we will survive. We made it even through the mega bank surge when we were inundated with buy outs and mega bank branches in every corner and we will make it through this crisis. THE STATE BANK of TEXAS remains strong. We’ve been saying it all along. Stick with us - we know what your needs are. We appreciate you! April is community bank month so come by and visit with your community banker. We welcome you to bank with us and look forward to meeting new customers all of the time! The State Bank of Texas is located at 13010 Murphy Rd. Stafford, Texas 77477, 281-494-6686, and at 3330 Antoine Houston, Texas 77092, 713-681-2265 or visit our web site at www.tsbot.com.

Special Feature

Inform tion & Technology TO ADVERTISE CALL 281-690-4201 April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Fort Bend/Katy

COVER STORY

By Dori Wind

Texas State Healthcare “Hometown Nurses Caring for Hometown People”

Photo by Hurst Photography

f necessity is the mother of invention, then it is entrepreneurship that is the guardian of a free marketplace. Connie and H.C. “Pat” Fodrie, owners of Texas State Healthcare, a full-service home healthcare agency founded in 2003 in Missouri City, are such guardian entrepreneurs. When the Fodries decided to establish TSH, they drew upon their extensive business backgrounds to introduce their successful enterprise into the marketplace. As a former CEO and business owner of companies providing construction and home improvement services and discount merchandising, Connie brought a wealth of business experience to TSH. Her husband, Pat, a former U.S. Army officer, had previously been a Hospital Administrator and brought his knowledge of healthcare to the company. Together, they worked to create TSH, which according to Connie was actually born out of her necessity to find a way to provide quality care for her own aging mother. After living through the sometimes frustrating and disappointing options she found, she knew she wanted to help others have an easier time of this very difficult experience. Connie explained that she observed and learned about the industry by watching the care her mother received, but she was constantly looking for ways to improve it. She stated that the people caring for her mother were not always ideal caregivers, so she stayed after them to make certain her mother received appropriate care. Understanding

Connie and H.C. “Pat” Fodrie

that there was a niche in the market to provide quality care for aging baby boomers, or persons with acute illnesses, inspired the Fodries to fill this gap. “We know about aging first hand, about sickness first hand and about the fears you have to face when something tragic happens that you have absolutely no control over,” stated Pat. “We have been there with our own parents, and we have been there with each other. Watching someone go through a disease process and the treatments that are sometimes so horrible, but necessary, you wonder how anyone can live through it,” Connie continued. Texas State Healthcare also understands that not only do the patients need help, but

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

so do the caregivers. “A lot of people do not realize that help is available to get through the trying times if you just know how and where to look for it. We can help you, that’s what we do,” emphasized Pat. The philosophy of the company is “Together we can make a difference.” They accomplish this mandate through employing more than 50 experienced licensed nurses, physical, occupational, and speech therapists, as well as medical social workers and other dedicated healthcare professionals who are constantly reviewing client medical information, continuously checking the clients’ current recuperative status, and teaching patients about their diagnosis and how to handle any complications that may arise. When looking for a home healthcare provider for yourself or a loved one, TSH encourages everyone to ask the following questions: 1) Do you do criminal background checks on your employees? 2) Do you have references? 3) Can you explain what my insurance will cover or my Medicare will cover and if I have to pay anything? 4) Can you assist me with any medical equipment I may need, such as a hospital bed or walker? 5) Do you have someone “on call” 24 hours per day, 7 days per week in case I need to speak with a nurse? 6) Will you coordinate my care with my physician? 7) Will my services and information be kept confidential? TSH’s answer to these questions is Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes, and Yes. TSH also networks with many healthcare

professionals throughout the state and has a second location in Bay City that serves several connecting counties. They work with hospitals and physicians when a patient is discharged to make certain that the person receives follow-up care as needed. They will assist in reminding patients about future doctor visits, and remind them to get their prescriptions filled. Wound care treatment is a specialty area for TSH. Connie related that “wound care is very serious business and we understand that it requires constant attention. Our nurses are conscientious in helping persons with diabetes, bed sores and other serious issues that cannot be ignored.” Vickie Piwonka, RN, WCC, COS-C is the Director of Nursing for Texas State Healthcare. She is certified in Wound Care and has training in Advanced Wound Debridement. Through its nursing staff, TSH provides services including, but not limited to: Diabetic Management, State-of-the-Art PT/ INR, Gastro Intestinal Disease Management, Pulmonary Disease Management, Chronic Obstructive Disease Management, Congestive Heart Failure and other Cardiac conditions, including Cerebrovascular (Stroke), IV Therapies, Urology Disease Management, Neurology, Hypertension,

Arthritis, Infusion DME and Lab Services. TSH also participates in Clinical Rotation Site, Safe At Home Process, and the Vial of Life Program. TSH educates all its patients about the Vial of Life Program. Pat and Connie advocate that everyone should know about this simple life-saving program. The Vial of Life is a pharmacy pill bottle that contains a page of medical information for a patient. If the patient has an emergency and paramedics are called to the house, the paramedics can retrieve the information and immediately know what medical conditions the person has, the medications they are taking, any allergies they have, emergency contact information, who their doctor is, or other important instructions. Pat also related that the bottle can be taken to a doctors office so that if you can’t remember the names of medicines or the dosage, it is all listed right there for you. You can just hand it to the nurse or the doctor. Additionally, TSH is licensed by the State of Texas and is Medicare Certified as a professional home healthcare provider. As a home healthcare provider, it can assist with daily living tasks at the patient’s residence. Connie explained, “Our home health care services enable clients to “Age in Place.” We want them to be able to maintain their

dignity and independence in the privacy and comfort of their own home.” “Many people do not understand what home healthcare services are, or how these services can be provided to themselves or their loved ones,” Connie stated. “We invite everyone who has questions to call us so that we can discuss individual needs and circumstances.” She also noted that the services available through TSH can be paid for through Medicare, private pay, private insurance and many other insurance plans. When Connie and Pat are not hard at work at Texas State Healthcare, Pat is reading and Connie is busy writing. She is a published author, and her recent book is entitled The Eyes and Ears of Beaufort, under the penname of Scharlotte Alexander. The book is published by Xlibris and available on line at www.xlibris.com, www.amazon.com, or www.barnesandnobles.com. For more information about Texas State Healthcare, visit the website at www. txstatehealthcare.com or call 281-208-4344. Non-Discrimination Policy: Texas State Healthcare does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, or age in admission, treatment, or participation in its programs, services and activities, or in employment.

April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

“Hometown Nurses Helping Hometown People” Home Healthcare Services • Skilled Nursing • Home Health Aide • Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Speech Therapy • Medical Social Workers • Provider Services • Diabetic Management • Injections • IV Therapy • PT/INR Monitoring • Lab Services – Catheter Care and...

Specializing in WOUND CARE

281.208.4344

See us at: www.txstatehealthcare.com

Non-Discrimination Policy: This Agency does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, or age in admission, treatment, or participation in its programs, services and activities, or in employment.

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

Fort Bend/Katy

Advertising Pays! Attention Fort Bend Businesses, As experienced business professionals we all know the importance of these two words. As owners of family owned businesses we know the value of sharing our story and our philosophy with new and established customers. Whether we market our business by word of mouth or aspire to share it on a much larger scale, share it we must if we desire to exist and grow. For more than 20 years, The Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal has been in the business of business. The Journal is the only locally owned publication in the Fort Bend area dedicated to focusing on your business. Whether the Journal is highlighting the creation of new enterprises, celebrating milestones of existing entities or reporting award winning business endeavors, it is the sole publication in the area dedicated to researching and sharing business stories. The Journal has been an integral part of the phenomenal growth of Fort Bend County reporting on development opportunities, government growth strategies and regulations, and the community/ business synergies that comprise Fort Bend County. The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce prints their monthly newsletter in our publication. To be a part of the Fort Bend / Katy business story, read the Journal and decide how you want to share your own story with the community. Businesses can choose to be a cover story, part of a monthly theme focus, or to run a time appropriate ad for a specific event. The Journal also features business involvement in the numerous philanthropic projects that epitomize the county. Our knowledgeable advertising executives can discuss available business presentation options. State-of-the-art graphic designers and award-winning photographers are also available to present your visual story. The Business Journal cover stories are a testament to the professional ability of our writers. Call 281-690-4200 today to talk with our Marketing Consultant. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your business and your future. Develop it now by sharing it with others who need your services and expertise.

4655 Techniplex Dr., Suite 300, Stafford TX 77477 â&#x20AC;˘ Direct: 281-690-4200

NEWSWORTHY Groundbreaking for Lufkin Automation held in Missouri City’s Lakeview Biz Park Lufkin Automation, Inc., held a March ground breaking and, expects to complete construction of its high tech automation headquarters in Missouri City before the end of the year. The new site will replace the Houston operation on 6.2 acres with a 40,000 square foot building at Lakeview Business Park. “Its design and location will help us attract and retain the skilled workforce necessary to support the high-tech product lines produced by Lufkin Automation,” said Lufkin Industries President and CEO Jay Glick. “We liked the work that Trammell Crow did on the business park and the fact that it provides convenient access to Beltway 8, U.S. Highway 90A and the Fort Bend Parkway Toll Road that will meet our shipping needs. It’s a good fit for our business,” said Dewayne Atwell, Lufkin Automation General Manager. When completed in about six months, a total of 45 employees are expected to be relocated from the present site nearby on Beltway 8, where company manufactures products such as automation equipment for oil and gas wells.

At the March 12 groundbreaking of Lufkin Automation in Missouri City’s Lakeview Business Park are (l-r) Joe Burch, Lufkin Industries; Mark Crews, Vice President and General Manager of Lufkin Industries Oilfield Division; Fort Bend County Commissioner Grady Prestage; Lufkin Industries President and CEO Jay Glick; Mayor Allen Owen; Dewayne Atwell, General Manager of Lufkin Automation; Vincent Cordova, Manufacturing Manager of Lufkin Automation; Scott Semlinger of Lufkin Industries; and Councilmember Bobby Marshall.

Lakeview Business Park in Missouri City is a development of: Trammell Crow Company and Crow Holdings Realty IV, L.P. It is a 157-acre industrial development site with mature trees in an attractive area of Fort Bend County with neighboring lakes.

National Society of Accountants comments on IRS steps to help unemployed and others The National Society of Accountants (NSA) commented on today’s announcement by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of new steps it is taking to help unemployed Americans and others. “NSA applauds these measures by the IRS to help taxpayers who continue to struggle economically,” said NSA Executive Vice President John Ams. “NSA members are also committed to helping their clients fully understand the options and help that is available to them as they assess their tax situations. Taxpayers can learn more and locate

an accountant in their area by visiting www. nsacct.org.” The National Society of Accountants NSA and its affiliates represent 30,000 members who provide accounting, auditing, tax preparation, financial and estate planning, and management services to approximately 19 million individuals and business clients. Most members are sole practitioners or partners in small- to medium- size accounting firms. NSA protects the public by requiring its members to adhere to a strict code of ethics. For more information, visit www.nsacct.org.

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

Reduce, reuse, recycle, and rock! Sugar Land Earth Day Celebration The City of Sugar Land and Keep Sugar Land Beautiful (KSLB) will host an Earth Day Celebration at the Sugar Land Town Square on Friday, April 23. The one-day event will include free household electronics recycling, paper shredding and collection of clothing and household goods for reuse from 5-8 p.m. in the parking lot adjacent to City Hall. A series of environmental activity booths and a performance by Vocal Trash will also be featured in the plaza from 7-9 p.m. Eagle Electronic Resources will be onhand to collect household electronics, such as TVs, VCRs, stereos, computers, printers, keyboards, scanners, cell phones, digital cameras, pagers and PDAs for recycling and reuse. Both working and non-working electronic equipment will be accepted free of charge from Sugar Land residents, and each resident participating in the electronics recycling event will be entered into a drawing for a FREE 42-inch television. Residents will also have the opportunity to bring their paper, CDs, DVDs and floppy discs for shredding by On-Site Shred, a document destruction company. The shredded material will be recycled after the event. The Fort Bend County Women’s Center will accept donations of clothing and household items for resale at the Fort Bend County Women’s Center PennyWise Resale locations. Fort Bend Seniors will collect gently used items, such as small electric appliances, bed linens, towels, blankets and small tools for Fort Bend County senior citizens. The City and KSLB have partnered with Sugar Land Town Square and Republic Services to host a performance by Vocal Trash, a Texas-based group that uses recycled materials to create an unforgettable entertainment experience. During the performance, the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council will also host a series of environmental activity booths featuring face painting, arts and crafts and a recycling game. For more information, contact (281) 275-2170.

Astros’ Bill Brown forum to benefit Logos Preparatory Academy Athletics and Fort Bend County non-profits Houston Astros play-by-play television announcer Bill Brown will take the stage with KPRC Local 2 Sports Director Randy McIlvoy for the Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital Friday Sports Forum on Friday, April 9. The luncheon begins at 11:30 a.m. at the Sugar Land Marriott Town Square. The popular Friday Sports Forum, which began in 2008, provides a casual conversation between the featured guest, McIlvoy and attendees. Cost is $10 and advance registration is required. Proceeds benefit Logos Preparatory Academy Athletics and Fort Bend County nonprofits. Brown is in his 23rd season with the Astros

Exchange clubs expand to Richmond

and is a member of the Texas Baseball Hall of Fame. He is regarded as one of the greats in Major League Baseball broadcasting. “The folks who attend this Friday Sports Forum Bill Brown will enjoy visiting with Bill and getting to know a little bit about the Astros of 2010,” said McIlvoy. To register for the April 9 Friday Sports Forum, call 281.725.LOGO (5646), go online at www.fridaysportsforum.org or send an email to fridaysports.forum@memorialhermann.org. Please include your name and number of attendees.

La Cocina Mexican Restaurant partners host their annual Cinco de Mayo fundraiser benefiting Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels Join La Cocina Mexican Restaurant for the 5th Annual Cinco de Mayo Fundraiser benefiting Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels at Saturday, May 1. The event will be held at La Cocina Mexican Restaurant located at 515 FM359 in Richmond. Reserve your table VIP today and enjoy fabulous food, live music, great drinks, a live and silent auction, raffles galore and most importantly, lots of fun with friends old and new. VIP tables for four to ten people are available from $350 to $800. Individual tickets can also be purchased for $90 per person. Since 2006, Andres Novoa, owner of La Cocina, has been instrumental in organizing the Cinco de Mayo fundraiser. Through his vision and continued support, he has been able to donate over $60,000 to help feed the Seniors living in Fort Bend County. “Andres is a valued volunteer and supporter of Fort Bend Seniors,” said, Manuela Arroyos, CEO of Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels. “We can continue to feed the seniors in Fort Bend County because of him, his volunteers and his strong belief in giving back to his community.”

Picture: (l-r) Angelica Martinez - FBS, Kristin Weiss – FBS, Tammy Harvey – La Cocina Mexican, Andrea Novoa – La Cocina Mexican Restaurant, Angela Vasquez – Janssen & Associates, Johanna Compean – E P Compean Funeral Directors

To register for this event, please contact Andres Novoa at (281) 238-0872. Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels qualified under 50lC(3) of the Internal Revenue Service as a non-profit corporation, as such contributions are tax deductible to the fullest extent as allowed by law. To donate to or volunteer for Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels, please contact Kristin Weiss, Director of Development at FBS, at 281-633-7057 or kweiss@fortbendseniors.org.

The National Exchange Club, a service organization comprised of some 900 clubs and 24,000 members across the United States and Puerto Rico is building a new club in Richmond. Exchange Club members have the opportunity to develop personal and business leadership skills and network with other members while completing service projects that benefit their community. Since 1979, Exchange’s National Project has been the prevention of child abuse. Since then, Exchange has established 100 Child Abuse Prevention Centers across the country, including the ESCAPE Family Resource Center which provides child abuse prevention training in Ft Bend County. Through its Clubs and CAP Centers and programs, Exchange expends over $60 million a year on Child Abuse Prevention. Other activities that Exchange members do are scholarships for youth, senior citizen programs, holiday gifts for the less fortunate and a myriad of other activities revolving around Exchange’s Programs of Service, Youth Projects, Community Service, and Americanism. Exchange, America’s Service Club, is a group of men and women working together to make our communities better places to live through programs of service in Americanism, Community Service, Youth Activities and its national project, the Prevention of Child Abuse. Exchange’s goal is to ignite the spirit of community service throughout the nation. Founded in 1911, the organization is headquartered in Toledo, Ohio. Since adopting the Prevention of Child Abuse as its national project 25 years ago, Exchange Clubs have founded more than 100 Child Abuse Prevention centers which served 225,000 abused children, one quarter of all the documented cases of child abuse, in 2003. For more information on how to become involved in this progressive service organization or about the organizational meeting, contact Sugar Land Club President Betty Baitland at 281-242-0669 or Memorial Club President Tony Ackerman at 713-825-0710.

April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

NEWSWORTHY Literacy’s 20th Annual Wine & Music Event “Around the World in 80 Days” Your passport to food and fun! Save the date – Friday, May 21st – as the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County celebrates Wine & Music with their “Around the World in 80 Days” event! This is the 20th Annual Wine & Music fundraiser and the Literacy Council will be marking the occasion in a big way

2010 Wine & Music committee Co-chair Aimee Ordeneaux, LCFBC Executive Director Brenda Bowman, Co-chair Heather Reichert.

at the beautiful and spacious Stafford Centre. Taken from the Jules Verne novel, this year’s theme will highlight exotic locations and unique modes of travel with delicious food, fabulous music and incredible wines. This year we are thrilled to have food provided by Swinging Door, Ray’s Grill, Extreme Pita, Pier 36 Oyster Bar and more. You won’t be able to resist the dance floor as the fantastic Password band entertains with smooth jazz, high energy and pop songs from their impressive repertoire. Mark you calendars and do not miss this event – it will be your passport to food and fun! For more information please visit www.ftbendliteracy.org. or call 281.240.8181.

St. Laurence celebrates Catholic Schools Week St. Laurence Catholic School celebrated Catholic Schools Week along with over two million other students in Catholic schools across the country. SLCS was honored to have Mayor

From left to right: Student Council VP Erik Swanson, Father Drew, Principal Debra Haney, Student Council Treasurer Tyler Tumbleson, Mayor James A. Thompson, and Student Council Secretary Jacob Brown.

James A. Thompson of Sugar Land as their very special guest for the Monday pep rally in honor of “Dividends for Life: In Our Community”. He presented SLCS with the proclamation announcing Catholic Schools Week in Sugar Land. He stayed to listen to the band and to watch the younger students from the annual SLCS Cheer Camp assist the cheerleaders. On Tuesday, students appreciated a free dress day and no homework night! In addition, third through eighth grade students had the honor of meeting renowned writer Margaret Peterson Haddix. The week ended with over 30 SLCS students attending the awards ceremony at the University of St. Thomas for winners in the 2010 Archdiocesan Essay Contest. Thanks to all for making it a great week!

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

FBJSL awards $5,000 grant to Fort Bend CORPS The Fort Bend Junior Service League (FBJSL) presented a $5,000 Community Assistance Fund (CAF) Grant to the Fort Bend CORPS, which will be used to fund two programs. The first is the CORPS’ Hearts & Hammers Program which benefits low-income, elderly and disabled residents throughout Fort Bend County by helping them to complete desperately needed exterior and interior home repairs. The second program is the Neighborhood Cleanup Program, which establishes a safe and sanitary environment by addressing slums and blight that consume lower income areas throughout the county. FBJSL accepts CAF applications throughout the year for grant funding up to $5,000 per year. Applicants must be nonprofit organizations serving Fort Bend County with requests to fund a critical need, pilot program and/or expand a significant service to the community. For additional eligibility requirements or to download an application, please visit www.fbjsl.com.

FBJSL members present a check in the amount of $5,000 to Fort Bend CORPS. Pictured left to right are Brandy Leonhardt, CORPS Fiscal & Program Director, Keely Aust, CORPS Community Development Program Director, Reesa Duffin, FBJSL member, Brigit Engleman, FBJSL President, Sharon Dimicelli, FBJSL member and Ron Castillo, CORPS Executive Director.

Submit Newsworthy items to editor_fbbj@fortbendstar.com

Spotlight on Private Schools

IRIS transmits messages via multiple modes of communication to large groups of people, simultaneously and in several languages. TechRadium, Inc. has provided IRIS™ to a multitude of educational institutions including school districts, public and private universities and parochial schools across the country. In today’s world, educational institutions of all sizes cannot afford to depend on substandard communication. The IRIS system is a highly advanced and dependable solution at a competitive price. Years of experience, patented technology and consistent performance make IRIS the optimal notification system. Reach Multiple Devices:

IRIS BENEFITS:

• Notifies and updates parents in cases of scheduling changes, such as: changes in school hours; holiday closings; maintenance closings; sports schedules and cancellations; exam schedules; faculty/staff notifications for incentives and schedules and general announcements • Serves as an internal communication tool for faculty/staff • Operates as an attendance tracking monitor by sending absent and tardy notifications • Allows for swift public affairs communication such as rumor control, public integration and evacuation areas

“Children are our most valuable natural resource.” – Herbert Hoover, 31st U.S. President

IRIS provides a powerful web-based method of contact, utilizing device priority, routing and escalation rules to deliver time-sensitive alert broadcasts.

Interested in purchasing IRIS for your private school or day care? Become an IRIS user and TechRadium will offer a “special price” for all Fort Bend private schools and day cares.

• Mitigates internal and external emergencies by immediately contacting the public on: severe weather alerts; suspicious or dangerous person warning; fires and other natural disaster emergencies; bomb threats and other critical school safety events • Contacts police, fire and medical professionals for emergency response • Fast, accurate, widespread and verifiable message delivery

Please contact Susan Ley at 281-263-6369 for more information and special pricing.

One Sugar Creek Center Blvd. Sugar Land, Texas 77478 Phone: 281.263.6300 | www.useIRIS.com

April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Spotlight on Private Schools

International Preparatory School represents cultural diversity Written By Barbara Irving: IPS Parent

ost things worth having are most difficult to attain so what’s up with the International Preparatory School in Missouri City, Texas? The International Preparatory School represents a natural and exciting extension of our community in all of its cultural diversity. Upon entering the school one can’t help but get excited because the students are genuinely engaged about learning and they are magnets for their developing intellectual curiosities. Indeed that was a mouthful but just stop in and see for yourself! Founder and School Executive Director, Susan Rhorer McMahon, a Registered Nurse, followed her passion for education and founded the International School. She was the Co-Founder and served as Director of another private school in Sugar Land for thirteen years. Her goal was to create an environment of tolerance and acceptance of all people.

The single greatest resource at the International Preparatory School is its dedicated and committed group of teachers who make up the faculty. The faculty reflects an extraordinary combination of scholarship, experience, achievement, and most of all concern for their students. They demonstrate their interest in each individual student, both in and out of the classroom. These brilliant faculty members were selected for their commitment to strong academic instruction, their superior academic backgrounds, personal enthusiasm for the school, and many had a long time relationship with Susan. In addition to teaching, most of the faculty are involved with extracurricular activities and assume the roles of class advisors, coaches, and/ or club sponsors. More than half of the faculty has earned advanced degrees and average over fifteen years of teaching experience per teacher. For more information call 281-208-1403, we are located at 1717 Dulles Ave. Missouri City, Texas 77459, or visit our web site at www. intenationalpreparatoryschool.com.

Integrity, Honesty, and Service to Others Full Care Available Monday - Friday 7 am - 6 pm

www.InternationalPreparatorySchool.com

INTERNATIONAL

PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Grades Pre Kindergarten through 8th grade Full Coverage Care Week: June 7th through June 11th - 7am - 6pm 1st Session: June 14th through July 2nd Academic Camp: Monday through Friday 9am - 12 noon (Full Coverage Care available 12noon - 6pm) 2nd Session: July 12th through July 30th Academic Camp: Monday through Friday 9am - 12noon (Full Coverage Care available 12noon - 6pm) Full Coverage Care Week: July 5th though July 9th - 7am -6pm FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL: 281-208-1403 • 1717 DULLES AVE., MISSOURI CITY, TX 77459 • FAX 281-208-1426 56

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

Spotlight on Private Schools

Southminster School nurtures the whole child

t Southminster School we care for and nurture the whole child – mind, spirit, and body. Founded in 1990, Southminster School serves children from eighteen months through fifth grade. Our exceptional and certified teaching staff, low student/teacher ratio, Christian environment, and multi-sensory approach promote a challenging curriculum which exemplifies excellence. Spanish, music, computers, library time, physical education, and chapel complement our elementary curriculum. Southminster School maintains the highest quality education while promoting and utilizing individual learning styles. The preschool program uses developmentally appropriate activities in a nurturing environment to engage and educate their young students. The individual attention afforded by our small elementary and preschool classes permit us to be responsive to different learning styles and create challenges beyond the average classroom experience. Southminster School is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and is a member of the Association of Christian Schools International, the National Association of the Education of Young Children, Houston Area Independent Schools, and the Texas Association of Non-Public Schools. Our student body has children of all faiths and twenty-one different nationalities. The skills and attitudes taught at Southminster School develop edu-

GOT NEWS? Email your news or press release to skwcountry@aol.com We love to hear from you. Also, don’t forget to read The Fort Bend Star or visit www.fortbendstar.com Ideas & suggestions are also welcome.

cated thinkers and strong leaders willing to make a difference in their world. Learning is a lifelong journey and the voyage begins here... 4200 Cartwright Road at Brightwater, Missouri City; For more information see www.southminsterschool.org or call 281-261-8872 to arrange a tour.

Southminster touts small classes.

Future Leaders Begin Here Southminster School, Fort Bend County’s best, academicallyfocused private Christian School, prepares future leaders by providing students opportunities to lead, serve, and learn. To find out more, visit us online at southminsterschool.org or call us directly at 281.261.8872.

Fort Bend/Katy

4655 Techniplex Dr. Suite 300 Stafford, TX 77477

The Voyage Begins Here™ April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Spotlight on Private Schools

Innovative learning at Trent InternationalE School “The heart of a school makes the difference. At Trent, it is the heartbeat of every child. This amazing sound quells every discordant note, and is a pure reflection of the children at peace with themselves and the world around them. As educators and parents, we have been given the privilege, for a very short time, to be their guardians, to guide and encourage them so that they may face life with the courage and understanding that who they are is perfectly alright.” - Ms Reeya Raman, Founder, Trent InternationalE School

ince its founding in 1993, Trent InternationalE School has been a leader in “constructivism”, a teaching methodology that implements the tenets of Ms. Reeya’s vision for the school as quoted above. Trent continues to innovate and incorporate tools and technologies to prepare students for life in the 21st Century. By fusing the world’s best traditional teaching techniques, creative tools and modern, relevant information, Trent has composed a well balanced, comprehensive way to bring Eastern methodology and Western innovation together. Trent graduates, are capable of contributing to intellectual topics with accuracy and eloquence, behave with dignity, poise, and possess the necessary tools for becoming true leaders.

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

Trent’s digital learning program teaches students how to use Web 2.0 tools, to become truly media literate as they function in an online collaborative, research-based environment – researching, analyzing, synthesizing, critiquing, evaluating and creating new knowledge! Students participate in a wide variety of Sports ProgramsGolf, Tennis, Soccer, Track and Basketball. The Basketball Prep Team competes at a national level. Students in accelerated programs achieve honor status in many academic arenas including Duke University (SAT), NLC, NJHS, NHS and Study-Abroad programs such as Oxbridge, UK. Trent provides extra-curricular programs in the Arts, including Music, Dance, Drama, Drawing and Painting. Courses are taught by skilled artists, actors, and musicians qualified to discover, and enhance the child’s talent. Trent’s summer program offers not only academics but also an Elite Basketball Academy taught by Olympic medalists and former professional athletes. Academic classes are available for credit, PSAT and SAT Training, in high school and enrichment programs in Mathematics and English for the lower grades. Other programs Etiquette/Life Skills, Dance, Drama and Golf.

Spotlight on Private Schools

Eliminate your children’s head lice

he Texas Lice Squad™, which started their operation by way of in-home services, has been helping families since 2006. Utilizing their intensive hands-on experience, they are able to help you solve your seemingly hopeless head lice problem, getting you and your family back to a normal routine as quickly as possible. There is no need to put yourself or your children through another day of embarrassment, frustration, and missed school & work days - help is only a phone call away. The Texas Lice Squad™ is owned and run by Penny Warner, a Registered Nurse, with a Bachelors of Science in Nursing. Penny’s background includes 12 years as a critical care nurse and is Board Certified in Nursing Administration. She also served as the Director of Healthcare Improvement, Risk Management, and Patient Safety, as well as the Accreditation Coordinator for one of the largest hospital systems in Texas. Penny founded The Texas Lice Squad™ after fighting head lice on her own children. “You would think being a nurse I would have had a handle on how to eliminate head lice. It just wasn’t that easy. I knew if I was having such a hard time that I couldn’t be the only mom who needed help.” Warner explains. “I started researching head lice and was amazed at the amount of misinformation out there. What I quickly learned was that better head lice education was the real key to ending the cycle.” Now by providing hands on help while simultaneously edu-

cating their clients in proper steps towards prevention, The Texas Lice Squad™ is able to help parents safely eliminate head lice and stop the reoccurring cases. Using non-toxic, pesticide-free products and professional combing to insure the removal of all nits and lice, The Texas Lice Squad™ will provide a letter attesting that your child is free of head lice and nits so that she/he may be readmitted to school.

A Professional and Confidential Lice Removal Service

We Resolve 99% of our Clients Lice Problems with only One Treatment

“I knew about you, but thought I could handle this on my own. I really wish I had come to you 3 months ago and just gotten this over with!” – Mrs. H “I have literally spent hundreds and hundreds of dollars on products that don’t work. If I had come here when this first started, I would have saved myself a lot of money and a lot of frustration.” – Mrs. P

2881 Dulles Ave. Missouri City, TX 77459 • 281-261-5423 • www.texaslicesquad.com April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Spotlight on Private Schools

The Towne Creek School

Young Minds... Brilliant Futures

Happy children who love to learn is our goal!

he Towne Creek School has been part of the Fort Bend Community for 26 years. What is so unique about this school? Since its inception, there has been one owner, whose concept has always been a learning environment with degreed, experienced classroom teachers, a curriculum focusing on the balanced child, an atmosphere of family, an open communication between school and parents, and a strong support system for the staff. Low turnover and staff longevity add to the pride of the school, as several staff members have been with the school for over ten years. Enriching and stimulating activities on a daily basis provide a curriculum where children enjoy the learning process, use their new knowledge in everyday situations, and assimilate that knowledge into their lives. The result of this type of curriculum is a confident, happy child who is well prepared for the next school year. The facility is designed to appeal to a variety of age groups, with three developmental playgrounds, an indoor gym, a library/computer room, outdoor pool and a game room for our afterschool students. A program based on 26 years of experience and a wealth of knowledge of child development, The Towne Creek School is a program devoted to producing happy, creative, confident children who love to learn. Check us out at www.thetownecreekschool.com or call 281-4998030. You won’t be disappointed!

26 years of excellence in children’s programming • Degreed, experienced teachers • Strong foundation in child development • Part and Full Time Programs • Infants through Kindergarten • Afterschool and Summer Programs

Call today for your personalized tour and visit! 3311 Williamsburg Ln. Missouri City, TX 77459

281.499.8030

www.thetownecreekschool.com

High-performance buildings are the hallmark of Rice & Gardner. Our services deliver energy efficiency for commercial, institutional and governmental facilities in Fort Bend County and Southeast Texas: n

n n

Mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineering design Building Commissioning Program Management

Each project is led by a member of our management team, assuring you of experienced guidance in optimizing your building operations: James D. Rice, LEED AP, CxA, CBCP

Kevin G. Gardner, PE, CxA Senior Vice President

President

James E. Thornton, LEED AP, CxA, CBCP

Jason M. Feit, PE Vice President

6161 Savoy Drive

Suite 1212

Houston, Texas 77036

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

713.482.2300

Vice President

713.482.2314 fax

www.ricegardner.com

Spotlight on Private Schools

SUGAR LAND

GREATWOOD/CANYON GATE

1 1118 Highway 6 • South

1250 Crabb River Road Richmond, TX 77459 281-343-5437

Sugar Land, TX 77498 281-575-0011

NEW TERRITORY 8202 Homeward Way Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-494-5437

WATERSIDE

2000 Waterside Estates Richmond, TX 77469 832-451-1111

Our Basic Philosophy is “Children Should Be Hugged First and Then Taught.” MISSOURI CITY

2850 Colonial Lakes Drive Missouri City, 77459 281-261-6442

RICHMOND

17317 Bellaire Blvd. @ FM 1464 Richmond, TX 77407 281-491-4090

SIENNA PLANTATION 4401 Sienna Circle Missouri City, TX 77459 281-778-3600

STAFFORD

12475 Sugar Dale Drive Stafford, TX 77477 281-240-1111

April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Spotlight on Private Schools

Faith Lutheran School and Preschool

aith Lutheran School and Preschool is a religious-educational institution founded as a ministry of Faith Lutheran Church in response to Jesus’ Great Commission, “Go therefore and spread the Gospel It is owned and operated by Faith Lutheran Church, LCMS, of Sugar Land, Texas. The Preschool (for ages 2½ through Pre-Kindergarten) opened in 1975 and the School (Kindergarten through Eighth Grade) in 1981. The mission of Faith Lutheran School and Preschool is to disciple children in the ways of God. We do this by providing a safe and structured environment where the students can experience a Spirit guided balance of • Academic, physical, and spiritual discipline and • God’s love, grace, and mercy. It is our goal to help each student reach his or her own level of excellence and to meet and know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Faith Lutheran School and Preschool sees

each child as a physical-mental-spiritual being, created by God and capable of experiencing a deep relationship with Him. Our faculty and staff consider it the highest calling to witness our faith daily by ministering to all children. We desire to work with parents and families to build up the character and academic excellence in each child. We believe in a God–centered academic program that produces strong

Faith Lutheran School A great education within your child’s grasp. Faith Lutheran School is one of the 2,300 Lutheran Schools in the U.S., a system of education begun in 1847!

Preschool – 8th Grade Apply Now For 2010 Enrollment • Excellent Christian Education • Nurturing Environment • Weekly Chapel • New Gym and Middle School Classrooms • Education-degreed certified teachers • Preschool Reading Program

800 Brooks Street Sugar Land, TX 77478

Visit www.FaithLutheranSchool.org or call (281) 242-4453. 62

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

character and sets the stage for an excellent education. We recognize that our children need to be guided under scriptural principles and that this approach is needed to give our children security within bounds. Faith Lutheran School is located at 800 Brooks Street, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Contact 281-242-4453 or visit their website at www. faithluteranschoo.org.

Spotlight on Private Schools

Play, smile, and learn at The Goddard School®

hy do children at The Goddard School® look like they’re having so much fun? Because play is the foundation of learning and Goddard takes play seriously! Children explore learning centers; read in library nooks; and climb and run outdoors. Cheery classrooms and large playgrounds form the backdrop to a learning environment where children participate in enriching activities. The Goddard School located in Richmond offers a program designed to enhance the development of children from six weeks to six years of age as well as a summer program for children up to ten years of age. The Goddard School’s unique FLEX Learning Program™ is a comprehensive play-centered curriculum that was developed based on the latest research in how children learn. Qualified teachers observe and assess where each child is in all areas of development and skillfully weave in engaging learning activities that build upon what individual children can do and encourage them to try new things. In each classroom, teachers develop lesson plans and create an atmosphere where children can learn and gain the skills that will guide them toward future academic success. Making learning fun is at the core of FLEX and, each day, Goddard School children select activities and materials to discover, explore and invent in their own imaginative and creative way. The program provides

a nurturing environment where children can make many supportable choices, independently explore learning materials and develop socialization skills as they interact with others. The result is a confident learner ready for school! Choosing The Goddard School means children will make friends, discover that learning is fun, and feel safe every day. The year round program provides consistency for children, while half- or full-day schedules offer flexibility to families. To learn more about The Goddard School located in Richmond, please call 281-232-5353 or visit www.goddardschool.com.

April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Spotlight on Private Schools

Fort Bend Baptist Academy schedules tours and camps

hallenging, college prep academics, competitive award winning sports program, varied fine arts opportunities... you are invited to tour the elementary, middle, and/or high school campuses and learn more about Fort Bend Baptist Academy (Admissions, 281-263-9142, admissions@fbba.org). Get moving this summer at FBBA’s SUMMER SPORTS CAMPS for boys and girls entering grades 1-12. Each camp will be filled with fundamentals, skill drills, and competition in a positive Christian environment. Players will receive personal instruction and encouragement from our coaches and can expect to improve their game and have a great camp experience. Visit www.fbba.org for camp brochures and information.

WORKS! Dear Carolyn, Just wanted to let you know that we have had great success with our recent ad in the Fort Bend Business Journal. Print media in the past has not been very successful for our business, but the ad we ran in your journal brought us several new – and satisfied – customers! Cudos to your production team, great ad! Thank you so much! Penny Warner, RN, NE-BC President/CEO The Texas Lice Squad RN, LLC www. texaslicesquad.com

Fort Bend/Katy

4655 Techniplex Dr. Suite 300 • Stafford, TX 77477

to advertise: 281-690-4201 fax: 281-690-4270 carolyn@fortbendstar.com 64

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

Spotlight on Private Schools

Imagine...

Grades Pre-K–12 ut o k c e Ch ummer our Samps C ba.org www.f

a foundation for the future built on a rock-solid college preparatory education.

281-263-9142 • www.fbba.org 1250 Seventh Street, Sugar Land, TX April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Build it & they will come – Commercial biz center draws companies By Elsa Maxey

“T

he reason we are seeing this volume of activity is that we have product on the ground that is available for companies,” reported Missouri City’s Economic Development Coordinator Bob Graf to the City Council in March referring to the area near Beltway 8. “That gives us the opportunity to see some companies taking advantage of the space that is here in Missouri City.” Expected to bring hundreds of jobs to the area, Graf attributes this kind of projection to the recent construction of several commercial business centers and industrial business parks in the city. “This is what has enhanced our ability to draw businesses to the area that would have otherwise gone to other places.” “I have to emphasize how it really took building an industrial business park, that availability, there and ready to go, and at such a prime location accessible to major thoroughfares, that’s what did it,” Graf said. Lakeview Business Park, a Trammell Crow owned project, has also benefitted from a

development agreement with Missouri City. The agreement helped defer initial infrastructure costs, such as water lines, sewer and road construction, which reduced development startBob Graf ups costs making if more affordable to establish the business park. Graf said that Lakeview Business Park’s construction of three new spec buildings, ranging from 38,000 to 153,000 sq. ft., have already drawn strong interest from possible tenants. At the Beltway Crossing Business Park, located off South Gessner Drive, there are two new commercial buildings, one is 116,000q sf ft and the other 166,000 sq ft, “and those, too, are new prospects for developing businesses in Missouri City,” said Graf. Below are highlights and updates of economic development activity in commercial areas throughout Missouri City: Lufkin Automation, Inc., an oil well services company, which underwent groundbreaking expects to complete construction of its high tech automation headquarters before

Reinvestment zone approval amidst new business deal to bring 130 jobs

issouri City is negotiating with an unnamed company to come do business in the city. The city council’s approval of a tax reinvestment zone where it is seeking to be located will help attract it. That’s what the City’s Economic Development Coordinator Bob Graf said at the March 15 City Council meeting during a presentation. “It took building an industrial business park and having a product there ready to go,” he said about Lakeview Business Park, which has 168 acres with about 127,000 square feet of building space to benefit from the reinvestment zone designation. City Council’s final approved for the cre-

ation of a reinvestment zone inside Lakeview Business Park means that “the city can now negotiate with the business prospect for a potential tax incentive,” said Graf. Back in October, City Council approved cutting property taxes in half for six years for Lufkin Industries, which has already broken ground for its new $4 million oil and gas product automation business that will be housed at Lakeview Business Park. This tax incentive “is a step in the right direction for what will interest business developers to look our way,” said Graf. The new business prospect under negotiation which is yet to be named could bring as many as 130 jobs to Missouri City.

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

the end of the year. The new site will replace the Houston operation on 6.2 acres with a 40,000 square foot building at Lakeview Business Park. At the Beltway Crossing Business Park is the recently opened Professional Packaging Company, which has leased 58,000 square ft. Also, Charming Charlie, expected to move in by April, will have a 141,000 sq ft warehouse and distribution center to serve the entire area of Southeast Texas. Fort Bend Corps, Rental Power, a high voltage electrical construction service company and MP Ambulance will soon join the list of new businesses at Graystone Park, an industrial project located across the street from Beltway Crossing with eight buildings ranging from 3,000 to 8,000 sq ft. Construction of an 8,800 sq. ft. professional building at Sienna Village will have U.T. Physicians in the commercial area in front of Sienna Plantation. The business operation will bring 25 doctors to the area providing a wide-range of medical services. In early summer, construction will begin on the 55-bed La Quinta Inn and Suites to be located on Williamsburg Lane, close to the Township near Highway 6. Plans for the Wallace Bajali project call for a groundbreaking in April for an independent, assisted living and skilled nursing facility. There will also be an age-restricted patio home development at Murphy Road and Hampton Drive. Autumn Leaves, an assisted living facility, is at the permit stage of construction; plans call for it to be located in Riverstone. Newquest purchased 23 acres next to Highway 6 at Colonial Lakes Drive for future commercial development. The 9er’s Grille has plans to build there along Highway 6, near Spring Creek BBQ. A Fuddruckers may soon make it to Missouri City. Efforts are underway as details are worked out to locate the food eatery in the shopping center next to Spec’s in Riverstone. Ben E. Keith, a food distribution facility, which has been delayed, is still on the books and will be developing with an expanded, more automated facility at the Beltway Crossing.

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281-690-4200 April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

NAMES IN THE Texana Honors HEROES Award winner The Texana Board of Trustees presented Johnnie Hoelscher with a HEROES Award at their recent board meeting. The award is given to recognize an outstanding employee and the services he or she perform – Helping Everyone Recognize Our Exceptional Employees Service (HEROES). Johnnie happened to be walking by a Kilgore contract worker, who was working behind a generator, when he saw the worker fall onto the concrete below. Johnnie went to assist and saw that the worker had blood on his face and was having some sort of seizure, so he immediately dialed 9-1-1. PHI Air Ambulance Service arrived and took the worker to the hospital. We were later advised that the worker had a heart attack and was doing well – thanks to Johnnie’s quick action.

Johnnie Hoelscher receives his award from Angela Waligura, Texana Board of Trustees Vice Chair.

New Executive Director for pregnancy resource center of Fort Bend County Tracie Shellhouse, the new Executive Director for the Pregnancy Resource Center in Fort Bend County, brings a wealth of experience and a true understanding of what it takes to run a Tracia Shellhouse non profit pro-life ministry. Tracie, her husband and four children come to us from Alabama. In 2003, Tracie began working as a volunteer at the local pregnancy center in Birmingham. A year later, she was offered a staff position and began her career in life-affirming ministry. Prior to working in crisis pregnancy centers, Tracie spent seven years in business management in the fields of accounting, marketing and customer service. Tracie’s desire is to enable women and men to choose life for their unborn child, and explore their relationship with God. She is a great addition to our team and we want to welcome you to come to the center to meet her and learn more about what we do at Pregnancy Resource Center.

The Mills Agency receives TSPRA communications awards The Texas School Public Relations Association (TSPRA) recently honored The Mills Agency for excellence in school communications in the two categories in which the firm submitted work. The Sugar Land public relations and marketing communications firm received a Gold Star Award for a prom otional poster it created for a gala benefiting The Wharton County Junior College Foundation. It also received a Silver Star Award for a citizen’s budget guide it wrote and designed for Spring Branch ISD. The Mills Agency markets educational institutions and nonprofits, including healthcare institutions and government

agencies, to build brand awareness and support for their programs, services and needs. The agency has worked with Spring Branch ISD since 1998 and WCJC since 2001. Nancy V. Mills Nancy V. Mills, APR founded the company in 1998. Each year, TSPRA recognizes communicators in school districts, education foundations, education associations and other organizations for their outstanding work in both print and electronic media. This year’s Star Awards competition received 1,302 entries.

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

Houston Association of Realtors® announces support for Jacquie Chaumette for Sugar Land City Council, at-Large, Position 2 The Houston Association of REALTORS® Board of Directors announced its decision to support Jacqueline “Jacquie” Chaumette for Sugar Land City Council, At-large, Jacquie Chaumette Position 2 for the May 8, 2010 Election. “Jacquie Chaumette is a vital member of the Sugar Land City Council, and we value her continued support on important real estate and development issues,” said TREPAC Trustee Cameron Hill of Realm Real Estate. “Council Member Chaumette was elected to office with an overwhelming majority of the vote in 2008, and this is a true testament to her passion and dedication for working diligently on behalf of Sugar Land’s residents. HAR is very proud to be supporting her, and we look forward to working with her.” Fort Bend and Houston area REALTORS® are involved in the political process at all levels, promoting policies and supporting candidates who advocate for private property rights and home ownership in the greater Houston area, including Brazoria, Fort Bend and Montgomery Counties. Texas ranks 45th out of 50 states in homeownership while Houston ranks 71st in homeownership out of the 75 largest metropolitan areas. Electing lawmakers who understand homeowners’ concerns and act accordingly is the Association’s top priority.

Submit News Stories to editor_fbbj@ fortbendstar.com

McNutt named as new George Foundation Trustee At their March meeting, trustees elected Tom McNutt to the George Foundation Board of Trustees. McNutt replaces outgoing Trustee E. E. “Gene” Reed of Sugar Land, who was appointed to the board in 2000 and has served as its chairman since April 2008. “Gene Reed has provided great insight and leadership to the Board of Trustees on issues important to the Foundation over the past ten years. His input has been invaluable as the foundation continued its support to Fort Bend County nonprofits providing much needed services for residents, especially during the current economic downturn. His leadership will be greatly missed.” said newly elected Chairman Michael Wells. Serving on the foundation board with McNutt will be Michael Wells, Pat McDonald, Bill Jameson and John Null. Born and raised in Rosenberg, McNutt, son of Moydale and the late James McNutt, graduated from Lamar Consolidated High School. He attended college at The University of Texas at Austin, graduating in May 1972 with a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. After a short stint in Victoria, Texas with DuPont Chemical Company, McNutt returned to Fort Bend County to assume the presi-

dency of McNutt Electric in 1978 upon the death of his father. McNutt is also the founder and owner of Lights Unlimited. McNutt is currently a member of Fort Bend Tom McNutt Country Club, having served twice as the president over his six years of board service. He is a member of the Rosenberg Lions Club, serving in many executive capacities since joining the organization in 1980. McNutt also served on the board of the Rice Belt Chapter of Southwest Basketball Officials from 1989 to 1998. A resident of Richmond, McNutt and his wife of 34 years, Donna, are members of St. John’s United Methodist Church in Richmond. He and Donna are proud parents of two daughters: Madonna, who works with her father at McNutt Electric; and, Michelle, a trauma surgeon with Memorial Hermann Hospital-Texas Medical Center. McNutt is quick to point out that he and Donna enjoy many activities together such as traveling and scuba diving, but neither equals the joy they receive from spending time with family, especially with granddaughter, Kennedy.

Exchange Club of Sugar Land reaches two million milestone! Exchange Club of Sugar Land achieves the two million milestone. Exchange Club of Sugar Land President Betty Beitland presents a check to Gladys Brumfield, YMCA Executive Director. With it the club attained the two million mark in contributions to many worthy Fort Bend County charitable organizations and its continuing support to ESCAPE Family Resource Center for the prevention of child abuse. ECSL is true to its cause by making our communities better places to live. Please visit us at www.ecsl.org.

Exchange Club of Sugar Land achieves the two million milestone. Exchange President Betty Beitland presents a check to Gladys Brumfield, YMCA Executive Director. With it the club attained the $2million mark in contributions to many worthy Fort Bend County charitable organizations and its continuing support to ESCAPE Family Resource Center for the prevention of child abuse.

American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Sugar Land co-sponsored by Methodist Sugar Land Hospital American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Sugar Land chair, Helen Curd thanks Frances Goerlich, Cancer Center Director at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital for the sponsorship and ongoing support of the upcoming April 16th event. Methodist Sugar Land has once again come on board as a sponsor and as well provided meeting space for the Relay’s Team Captain University training session. Information about how to form a

team or become involved in the American Cancer Society Relay For Life is available at RelayForLife.org or by contacting Helen Curd (relayforlife.sugarland@ yahoo.com). The event will be held on April 16th at 7 pm at Oyster Creek Park. For more information about cancer, call the American Cancer Society’s 24-hour help-line at 1-800-227-2345 or visit cancer.org. Frances Goehrlich and Helen Curd April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

NEWSWORTHY Food Pantry honors George Foundation with building dedication Friends and supporters of East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry, Inc. joined together recently for an Open House and Building Dedication to mark the completion of a new facility and expansion project. Over 200 guests toured the newly constructed Food Pantry and renovated Resale Shop, and were on hand for the building dedication. The Food Pantry was dedicated in honor of Mamie George for her legacy for helping others in need, and The George Foundation for their longstanding support of East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry, Inc. “We are extremely grateful to The George Foundation for all they have done to help the Ministry,” said Vickie Coates, Executive Director. “They have been true community partners throughout the years.” The new, larger facility couldn’t have come at a better time. In the past year the Ministry has seen a 20% increase in the number for Fort Bend County residents coming to the Food Pantry for help with the basic needs of life - food to feed their families. The new building has 4,000 square feet of food storage space as well as six interview rooms where those seeking assistance meet with trained volunteers in a private and confidential setting. “We will be able to utilize our beautiful new facility to help more of our neighbors in

need,” said Vickie. Part of the building project included the expansion of Tri-City Churches Resale Shop. Located next to EFBHNM, the Resale Shop has been a mainstay for many in the community for 35 years. The profits from the Resale Shop go back into the programs and services provided by East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry. The new location for EFBHNM is 435 Stafford Run Road in Stafford, and Tri-City Churches Resale Shop is next door, at 425 Stafford Run Rd. The Capital Campaign has raised $1.6 million of the $2.8 million needed to fund the building and renovation project. Capital Campaign donations may be sent to P.O. Box 1611, Stafford, TX 77497-1611 or made online at www.humanneeds.org. East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry, Inc. has been helping families in crisis in Fort Bend County for 20 years. Last year, the Ministry helped over 41,000 people in our community who were struggling to make ends meet. For more information about East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry, or to make a donation to the Food Pantry or Resale Shop visit www.humanneeds.org or call 281-261-1006. All donations are tax deductible.

John Null, George Trustee; Vickie Coates, EFBHNM Executive Director; Dee Koch, Grant Officer, The George Foundation; Jack Moore, George Foundation Legal Counsel.

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

Tri-Star Partners plans Shoppes and Suites for Richmond

Tri-Star Realty Partners, Ltd. is developing a six-acre tract at the intersection of Williams Way (formerly Ransom Road) and Golfview Drive in Richmond. The site will offer retail building space, pad sites and office condo development. The mixed use development is located directly adjacent to the new $90 million Fort Bend County Justice Center complex and will feature a total of 30,000 sq.ft. of leasable space; 20,000 sq.ft. retail building footprint on the first level with approximately 10,000 sq.ft. of full service office space on the second level. According to Dave Lawrence, the building is designed to accommodate a drive-thru user on one end of the building. The site will offer direct cross-access with the Justice Center complex. Two pad sites will provide an opportunity for retail, fast food, convenience store or day care services. Each pad is approximately 30,000 sq.ft. of land area but can be combined for a larger user. All utilities are available for the pad site user(s). Williams Way will be improved to a four lane road with medians from the Justice Center complex to US-59 prior to the opening of the complex campus in 2011. The Fort Bend Justice Center is expected to open in May 2011. The plans for the retail shoppes show accessibility to tenants by March 2011.

SW 59 Sunrise Rotary Club announces fundraisers for Impact a Hero & The Tackling Autism Foundation Food, silent auctions, crime prevention are but a few of the offerings of a local fundraiser organized by the recently charted SW 59 Sunrise Rotary Club. Set for Saturday, May 15, the event will benefit Impact a Hero and the Tackling Autism Foundation, two notable and charitable causes in need of support from the community at large. The event will be held at the Smack Guitars Center, 6302 Highway 6 in Missouri City from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. “We’re a new club and are striving to begin our community efforts by seeking ways to improve the quality of life, especially for those in need,” said David Hamner charter member of the club. “We are very honored to be a part of a benefit that is genuinely about impacting the lives of a deserving population living among us and we’d like to celebrate their success to come with what we’re hoping will be a fun and entertaining turnout with this fundraiser.” Key sponsors of the event include Sugar Land Medical Associations, Family Practice & Sports Medicine and Southwest Water Company. Meal tickets for the fundraiser are already on sale for $5 each and may be

Members and community volunteers prepares for latest fundraisers.

purchased from club members. “We’re pleased to see the endorsement by so many and would like to encourage others to do so,” said Hamner. Among the outstanding and celebrated contributors are Mike O’Connell with Southwest Water Company, Chris Douglas with the Houston Texans and Ami Borovick, in addition to Trustmark Bank and others committing to participate in this type of worthy, charitable cause. “We’re looking for auction items and we feel that so many fortunate community businesses and leaders will gladly lend a hand,”

Style show to be held at Quail Valley Grill

Unemployed Texans will not face gap in benefits Claimants should continue to request benefits as usual The deadline for jobless Texans to file for emergency unemployment benefits has been extended from February 27 to April 3, 2010, the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) announced today. This new filing deadline allows long-term claimants to continue receiving unemployment benefits. Congress approved this deadline extension before qualified claimants faced a gap in receiving benefits. Claimants should continue to request unemployment benefit payments on their scheduled day. Claimants who are currently receiving emergency unemployment benefits may find updated information on their claims at http:// ui.texasworkforce.org, or by calling UI TeleServ at 1-800-558-8321 and pressing option 2. There is no need to call TWC to qualify for

Hamner said. One of the event benefactors, Impact a Hero, was founded as a mechanism for organizations and individuals to provide emotional and financial support for the severely wounded and disabled Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom troops. There will be other Impact a Hero activities held during the year following the one by the Sunrise Rotary Club, notes Hamner. “Help us show a grand kick-off representing our emotional and financial support to the wounded heroes that have come home.” The Tackle Autism Foundation, also a 501 (c) 3 organization, will also benefit from the generous contributions of the Rotary Club’s fundraiser. Families struggling to cover the costs of intensive autism therapy will be helped by being able to go to facilities providing services that are an important part of a child’s treatment. For more information, interested persons are asked to contact Jessica Kelley, slvrchic18yahoo.com; Dixon Eller, 713-857-2412, dixoneller@yahoo.com; or David Hamner, 281-261-5007, wdhamner@comcast.net

this extension unless claimants receive a letter telling them to call. Emergency unemployment benefits are entirely federally funded, so Texas employers will not be charged for any claims paid on this extension. Currently, approximately 385,000 Texans who would have lost their emergency unemployment benefits are eligible for continuation of emergency benefits without delay. The Texas Workforce Commission is a state agency dedicated to helping Texas employers, workers and communities prosper economically. For details on TWC and the services it offers in cooperation with its network of local workforce development boards, call (512) 463-8556 or visit www.texasworkforce.org.

Left to Right: Quail Valley Quails members Terry Colley-2nd Vice President, Bev Yellowlees, Inge-Lise Braswell-1st Vice-President & Program Chair and Sara Cornett are looking forward to the upcoming Coldwater Creek Style Show to be held April 1 at the Quail Valley Grille in Missouri City. Members of Quails will strut their stuff in the latest fashions designed to put a spring in your step. Meetings begin with a social hour from 10:00 a.m. followed by a brief business meeting and the program at 11:00 a.m. Lunch is served at noon and door prizes are awarded with dessert. For luncheon and style show information or reservations, contact Terry Colley at t.colley@ sbcglobal.net or 281-438-6234.

April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

FBC Historical Commission presents 2010 awards for historical preservation

he members and community supporters of the Fort Bend Historical Commission both realize the preservation of history can take on dramatically different forms. Sometimes, it’s achieved with a singular, high-profile action, such as salvaging a threatened historic site. More often, though, historical preservation comes as the result of years dedicated to steady, incremental research and documentation. The steady, incremental process is the type of historical preservation acknowledged at the second annual awards ceremony hosted by the commission at Safari Texas Ranch this month. More than 100 members and supporters attended the reception to honor long time members Virginia Scarborough and Willie Ann McColloch of Richmond. Fort Bend County Judge Bob Hebert

Bert Bleil, Wiilie Ann McColloch, Virginia Scarborough, TBC Judge Bob Herbert

served as the master of ceremonies and assisted Commission Chairperson Bert Bleil present the awards. “Virginia and Willie Ann have been and remain very active in historical preservation,” stated Hebert. “Their latest project while serving on the Cemeteries Committee involved

compiling the names of paupers buried by Fort Bend County. But each of these ladies has a long list of accomplishments well known to their peers.” “ Let me first say that Virginia Scarborough and Willie Ann McColloch represent the best elements of Commission membership – a strong and devoted work ethic, dedication, consistency and integrity. He briefly hit the highlights: Both of these volunteers have spent countless hours researching and gathering data on Fort Bend County graves and cemeteries. This work began well before the County Historical Commission’s current focus on cemeteries. It has consisted of not only searching the records and collecting data, but also of locating and visiting the actual grave sites and cemeteries located across the county and documenting what they found.

Oakbend Medical Center first in county to offer minimally invasive laser treatment for peripheral artery disease

akBend Medical Center is now offering a new treatment option for patients suffering from peripheral artery disease (PAD). It is the first in the area to use Spectranetics’ excimer laser ablation system, which is designed to eliminate artery blockages and restore blood flow in the legs. This treatment is the first-ever, FDA-cleared laser procedure for PAD. PAD is a cardiovascular disease that restricts or blocks blood flow in the legs. Arterial blockage, or hardening of the arteries, occurs when plaque builds up along artery walls and if left untreated, can lead to critical limb ischemia which can cause rest pain, non-healing of wounds on the legs or feet gangrene and may even lead to amputation. Those suffering from PAD are at increased risk for heart disease, aortic aneurysms and stroke. Therefore, it is important for an individual to recognize the risk factors and symptoms for PAD, and seek testing and treatment early. In an effort to provide the highest quality patient care, OakBend is now offering patients a new treatment option for PAD—laser ablation. Laser ablation is a minimally-invasive procedure that treats blockages within peripheral arteries. Spectranetics’ excimer laser produces pulsed bursts of ultraviolet (UV) light energy that vaporize blockages in the arteries. This energy is transmitted along flexible glass fibers encased in tiny catheters, which can be passed through the arteries right to the

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

Ms. Annette Bastianos, pictured immediately following the procedure with Dr. Uttam Tripathy, Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgeon, Dr. Imran Mohuiddin, Vascular Surgeon and her sister, Ms. Celeste Good.

location of the blockage. The UV light energy is then focused on the blockages that need to be treated, restoring blood flow to the limb. Laser ablation may aid in limb salvage and may improve well being. continued on page 78

Roth IRA conversion for 2010 protects your retirement savings By Dori Wind

“W

hile it is said that two things in life are certain, death and taxes, 2010 offers an incredible opportunity for the money you have in traditional IRA accounts to avoid taxes both before and after your death,” explained Robert Rolnick, local attorney and CPA. He continued, “Beginning on January 1, 2010 anyone, regardless of income, can convert a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA.” By converting a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA, these accounts may be left tax free* to your heirs at death and you and your heirs may avoid taxes on the money earned in your Roth IRA accounts in the future. The basic concept of the traditional IRA was that you could save for retirement while you were working, let the money grow tax free and then withdraw the initial contributions plus the earnings once you became age 591⁄2. At age 701⁄2 you were (and still are) required to begin to withdraw the money in your IRA account according to a percentage formula. A drawback to this savings plan was that any withdrawals are taxed. Brief History of IRA and Roth IRA In 1974, the Employment Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) created the first Individual Retirement Account which allowed tax deductible contributions of $1,500.00 per year. The major limitation of the first IRA was that you could not contribute to an IRA if you were covered by a retirement plan through your employment. The Revenue Act of 1978 established the Simplified Employee Pension Plan (the SEP-IRA) for small business owners. The popular 401(k) plan was also enacted in 1978 and much of the funds now in traditional IRA plans are the result of individuals who rolled their 401(k) accounts into individual IRAs after leaving their employer. In 1981, the Economic Recovery Tax Act allowed all employees to contribute to an IRA even if you were covered by a retirement plan. The Tax Reform Act of 1986 eliminated the deductibility of contributions for higher income individuals. Roth IRAs were created in 1997 by the Taxpayer Relief Act. These plans allowed for taxed contributions to be put into an account which could later be redeemed tax free, and also allowed for early withdrawals under certain circumstances. The major benefits of the Roth IRA were (and still are) that the money in the account can grow tax free; no requirement to withdraw at age 701⁄2; if you own a Roth IRA at your death, the beneficiary can withdraw the money in the Roth IRA account tax free, or never withdraw funds at all. The major limitation on the Roth IRA was (and still is) that higher income individuals could not take advantage of these accounts. The maximum annual amounts that could be contributed into traditional IRAs and Roth IRAs have increased over the years. Prior to 2010, conversion of a traditional IRA into a Roth IRA was allowed but was subject to an income limitation. Higher income

individuals could not convert their traditional IRA into a Roth IRA. As stated in the first part of this article, that income limitation has now been removed and anyone can convert a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA. Benefits of Conversion Benefits of conversion can be enormous. First, with a traditional IRA, you pay income taxes on the initial contribution and any growth in the account when withdrawn. With a Roth IRA, income taxes are paid on the initial contribution, but growth in the account is not subject to income taxes. Second, withdrawals from a traditional IRA are taxed at the income tax rates in effect during the withdrawal year. Tax rates will probably rise in the future. Assuming a conversion is made in 2010, you would pay taxes on the amount converted at 2010 tax rates. A third benefit is that for 2010, a one-time provision allows investors who convert a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA in 2010 to spread the tax liability over tax years 2011 and 2012. Once your traditional IRA is converted to a Roth IRA, distributions from the Roth IRA after age 591⁄2 and five years after the conversion are income tax free and completely voluntary. Therefore, if you can afford to pay the conversion taxes using assets outside the IRA and you won’t need to withdraw money from the converted Roth IRA until age 591⁄2, and five years will have elapsed from the conversion, this provision will be advantageous for you. “Remember,” Rolnick cautioned, “you should always discuss your individual situation with you tax advisor before making any decisions.” * Roth IRA accounts (and traditional IRA accounts as well) could be subject to estate taxes, depending on other assets you own at death and future estate tax laws to be enacted by congress. April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Fort Bend Golf Courses & Country Clubs

Riverbend Country Club enhances facilities By Dori Wind

ricia Hawks in Membership at Riverbend Country Club is proud to show off the newly remodeled clubhouse. “We have new carpeting, new furniture, updated lighting, new tabletops, new glassware, a beautiful stone fireplace, a gorgeous tin ceiling in the bar area, and a whole new atmosphere,” explained Hawks. “These renovations were completed in January,” she continued, “and as a result of also pushing out a wall in the main dining room, we can now accommodate 300 people at an event.” “We love hosting weddings, anniversary and birthday parties, family brunches, holiday gatherings, and corporate programs” noted Hawks. “Our Women’s Association also has its annual Spring Luncheon & Style Show and we enjoy having numerous golf tournaments and charity events,” she continued. Over the past few years the club has spent $5 million in improvements to the facilities, including renovated greens, tee boxes, practice facility, outdoor gazebo area, and an athletic facility with state-of-the-art equipment. A personal trainer is also available for hire to work with members at the athletic facility. Hours for the athletic facility are from 6:00 am until 8:00 pm Monday –Friday and 6:00 am until 5:00 pm Saturday and Sunday. Riverbend currently has over 400 members and has a goal of 450, so if golf, tennis or socializing is your game, now is the time to capture the best membership in Sugar Land on its upswing. When it reaches the 450 number, prospective members will be put on a waiting list. Established in 1957, Riverbend is the only member owned private Club in the Sugar Land area. The golf course is one of the area’s most beautiful and challenging courses, aesthetically pleasing, slightly undulated and outlined on one side by Oyster Creek. Old pecan trees and several bodies of water come into play and much of the wild life that lives on the course can often be seen. Riverbend

Riverbend Country Club Dining Area

has been committed to providing a championship quality golf course for more than 50 years. The original course was designed by legendary golf course designer Press Maxwell and is one of the finest golf destinations in the Houston area. Jeff Blume, nationally recognized golf course architect, supervised the recent renovations, paying special attention to preserving the traditional, but challenging playing experience. Blume refurbished the course with new Mini Verde Greens. In addition to golf, Riverbend also offers four lighted tennis courts, an outdoor Olympic size swimming pool, member dining and numerous social activities. These activities include: Member Theme Buffets, Bunco, Women’s Association Luncheons, Special Guest Speakers, Ladies Night Out, and Men’s and Women’s Golf Association activities. During the summer, numerous programs are also provided for the youngest members, including golf and tennis camps. Riverbend offers numerous types of memberships, so you are sure to find the right one for you and your family. In addition to full active memberships that entitle members to

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

all privileges of the club, there are: • Junior memberships for members ages 21 through 34 which allows full unrestricted use of all club facilities for themselves, their spouse and dependent children; • Athletic members who are entitled to the athletic facilities and all social activities including dining, tennis and pools; • Corporate members who have the same use of facilities as Active members, with up to ten (10) designees to a corporate membership. These are full family memberships; • Executive members who have full use of facilities but golf play is only from Tuesday thru Friday noon; and • House (Dining Only) membership that entitles members to full dining privileges From Tuesday thru Sunday, along with social activities and Dining meeting Rooms. Hawks invites everyone to come by and check out the updated amenities at Riverbend. The country club is located at 1214 Dulles Avenue in Sugar Land. You can also give Tricia a call at 281-269-2526 to schedule a tour of the facilities. To find out more information about the club, check out the website at www.riverbendcountryclub.org.

Join Riverbend and get in on the Excitement! The Only Members Owned Club in Sugar Land. Membership Benefits A Championship Golf Course Expanded Luxurious Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Locker Room 4 Outdoor Lighted Tennis Courts Olympic Size Swimming Pool New Fitness Facility Social Activities Private and Casual Dining

Riverbend Country Club is a traditional, private, full service Members Owned Country Club located in the heart of Sugar Land, just 25 minutes south of downtown Houston, Texas For information about membership, please contact Tricia Hawks at 281.269.2526 or Triciarbcc@gmail.com

www.riverbendcountryclub.org

Fort Bend Golf Courses & Country Clubs

Photos courtesy of Missouri City

Quail Valley…Experience it for the first time all over again!

*Quail Valley Golf Course host of the 1973 and 1974 PGA Houston Open

Quail Valley… experience it for the first time all over again! The newest championship golf course in the Houston area is now open! The El Dorado at Quail Valley Golf Course. The brand new Jeff Blume design featuring elevated greens and tee boxes, tree-lined fairways, 78 bunkers, water hazards on 14 holes, five tee boxes to choose from and it’s public. Everyone is invited to play the newest golf gem in the Houston market – you can call for tee times seven days in advance. Plus, the Quail Valley Grille features a full menu of food and beverages for your post-round enjoyment. Quail Valley Golf Course, home to the new El Dorado and the traditional La Quinta, is located in Missouri City – only minutes from the Med Center, Galleria and Downtown.

Pro Shop: 281.403.5910 www.golfquailvalley.com

QV3.5x4.75.indd 1

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010 3/25/10 10:45:24 AM

hen looking for the perfect putt, Missouri City’s gorgeous greens at Quail Valley Golf Course is the public’s place to play. Golfers enjoy the lure of the traditional La Quinta and the championship challenge of the exciting El Dorado. Golf Architect Jeff Blume managed the course redesign of El Dorado and it’s a popular draw regionally and nationally. Quail Valley resident, PGA Tour winner and Golf Channel commentator Billy Ray Brown has high praise for El Dorado, saying it is one of “the best public golf courses in the Houston market.” After hitting your 18th-hole on either course, we invite you to visit our fullservice restaurant, The Grille, and enjoy a hearty steak dinner or one of our pasta specials. After the end of the golf day, visitors are welcome to take a leisurely walk or jog on trails crafted alongside the beautifullymanicured courses. Quail Valley Golf Course was established in 1970 and is famous for hosting the 1973 and 1974 Houston Open. Tee times are available seven days in advance. For more information, please visit our website: www.golfquailvalley.com, or call the Pro Shop at 281-4035910. Quail Valley Golf Course, 2880 La Quinta Drive, Missouri City, TX, 77459.

Fort Bend Golf Courses & Country Clubs

The Houstonian provides finest golf & recreation facilities

he Houstonian Golf & Country Club is the area’s premier club providing the finest golf and recreation facilities and an unparalleled club experience for members and guests. The Houstonian boasts a challenging 18-hole golf course designed by Rees Jones, impeccably maintained golf practice facilities and The Golf Academy offering private golf instruction for those looking to improve their game. The Mediterranean-style Clubhouse provides a full service grille and bar, luxurious locker rooms and function space for private events. Recreation amenities include a fitness center with top-of-the-line equipment, group exercise studio offering a variety of fitness classes, tennis courts, two resort-style family pools and a childcare facility. Trellis recently made its debut as a luxurious spa offering innovative treatments and excep-

tional services for massage, face and body, nails and hair care. Members also enjoy a full calendar of golf, social and recreation events. A limited number of Golf and Club Memberships are currently available. Call 281.340.7280 to inquire about membership opportunities or visit www.houstoniangolf.com.

As you would expect… Two resort-style family pools

Championship golf course

Trellis, a luxurious day spa

Fitness facilities and programs

The Houstonian Golf & Country Club provides the finest amenities and first class services found in the area.

www.houstoniangolf.com

A limited number of Golf and Club Memberships are currently available. To inquire about membership opportunities and schedule your private tour, contact Nicole Scarbrough, Membership Director, 281.340.7280 or nscarbrough@houstoniangolf.com. April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Let an Angel help you care for your loved one

n a perfect world you would be able to take care of your aging parent in your home or theirs, relying only on family to help you. But the reality is that caring for an aging or ill parent is a full time job that can take a toll on the caregiver. Add to that the demands of raising a family, working, and other responsibilities. Chances are you will need a little assistance along the way. That is where the Angels come in. Visiting Angels is a National network of franchised non-medical homecare agencies providing senior homecare to help the elderly and older adults continue to live in their homes. These caring, experienced home caregivers provide up to 24 hour care in the comfort of your own home.

Visiting Angels works with each family to develop an individualized program to manage the daily needs of the clients such as: companionship, bathing, errands, prepare Shehnaz Vadgama meals, doctors appointments, shopping and light housekeeping. After the caregiver has been placed in your home the company continues its personalized contact through telephone check-in and home visits. For more information visit our website at www.visitingangels .com or call 281207-1259. The office is located on: 19901 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land,TX 77479.

America’s Choice In Homecare!™

Screened Bonded & Insured

Senior Homecare By Angels ®

• Up to 24 hours care • Meal Preparation • Errands / Shopping • Personal Hygiene Assistance • Light Housekeeping

• Respite Care for Families • Rewarding Companionship • Experienced Caregivers • Affordable Rates • We Respond!

19901 Southwest Freeway • Sugar Land, Texas 77479

281-207-1259

Licensed • Bonded • Insured

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

Oakbend Medical Center first in county to offer minimally invasive laser treatment for peripheral artery disease continued from page 72 An alternate procedure, open surgical bypass, requires general anesthesia during the surgery and a much longer recovery; however, the minimally invasive procedures take only a couple of hours and the patient can usually go home within a day. The typical patient is back on his feet and able to resume normal activities in about a week. “Nearly 100,000 amputations2 happen every year that could be prevented, if PAD were recognized and treated immediately,” said Imran Mohiuddin, MD. “Patients should not be subjected to a life-altering amputation procedure when a minimally invasive treatment option exists to restore blood flow to the legs and feet. The Spectranetics’ laser ablation system can help many patients get back on their feet quickly and pain-free.” One of the first patients to receive this treatment at OakBend was Ms. Annette Bastianos, pictured immediately following the procedure with Dr. Uttam Tripathy, Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgeon, Dr. Imran Mohuiddin, Vascular Surgeon and her sister, Ms. Celeste Good. “We have been here several times and have been so happy because the nurses were so friendly and the doctors that have taken care of my sister have been just wonderful. It was good for us to have this treatment here at home and not be transferred. The traffic and parking would just make that so hard for us,” said Ms. Good. About Peripheral Artery Disease Peripheral Artery Disease is a serious condition that causes blood vessels in the legs and sometimes arms, to become restricted or blocked and affects between 8 and 10 million 1, 2 Americans. PAD is progressive. Only 10% of the population has the classic symptom of claudication and up to 50% of people with PAD have no symptoms

Plantation at Quail Valley offers the ideal “Finer Things in Life” home

eniors looking for an affordable, luxurious apartment home can find an ideal choice with Plantation at Quail Valley, an active senior-living community in Missouri City, for those 55 years and better. Residents will find a lovely gated community with state- of- the- art amenities, beautiful sparkling pool and spa, social activities, catered lunches, free transportation, planned trips, bingo, bridge, Bible study, “Wednesday Lunch On Us”, games night and “Saturday at the Movies.” Residents also can relax on their private patios and balconies that over look the beautiful court yards. The Plantation at Quail Valley offers spacious one and two bedroom apartments starting from $985-$1326. Let the professional and dedicated staff help you enjoy the “Finer Things In Life” at the Plantation at Quail Valley. For details and specials call 281-208-4470

2815 Cypress Point Drive Missouri City, TX 77459

281-208-4470 www.plantationqv.com

lantation at Quail Valley offers the stress-free lifestyle that senior adults long for and deserve. Our apartment homes are stylish, bright and attractive. You may choose to enjoy our wonderful prepared meals with friends in our fashionable dining room, or your own meals prepared at home in our spacious, fully equipped kitchens. Caring for your clothes is a snap with a washer and dryer in every apartment. Lounge on our private patios or join the group in our clubhouse for fun parties, games and social events. Let us do the driving while you enjoy the view, as we take you around the town. Play in our pool or heated spa, and stay fit in our state of the art Fitness Center.

Fort Bend/Katy

4655 Techniplex Dr. Suite 300 Stafford, TX 77477

A luxurious lifestyle and much, much more at an affordable price. April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Data Beat DBA (Assumed Names)

(+) = More Names

This is a sample of the Assumed Names (DBAs) filed at the Fort Bend County Clerk’s office for February 2010. More Assumed Names may be viewed online at http://ccweb.co.fort-bend.tx.us/RealEstate/SearchEntry.aspx. There were 300 Assumed Names with Notary Fee for month of February. There were also 92 Assumed Names without a notary fee. Mendez Ernesto Jose Mendez Cleaning Services 9202 Brandon Chase Lane 77407

Bolumole Ola Tundayo Ventures 1015 Alexandra Street 77477

Prasad Pravin C D P Consulting And Re Services 706 Annies Way 77479

Ddc Holdings Llc Kaixo 75614 Durango Falls Ln 77494

James Williams Enterprises Inc Robertston Tamisha Miss Pam’s Academy Bondfire Payment Services 1535 Kenforest Dr 77489 16123 Pasadero Drive 77083

Mcclain Ellen Amazing Grace Interest 5523 Raintree 77459

Itsguru Llc Pixion Creative 10623 Sugar Trace Dr 77498

Sims Stefan S Street Genius Productions 1914 Triple Glen Ct 77545

Gonzalez Roberto Custom One Trim N Cabinets 1103 Mossridge 77489

Shaikh Saad Sachs Auto Sales 10021 Highway 6 South 77498

Itsguru Llc Algorithm Apps 10623 Sugar Trace Dr 77498

Reyes Alfredo True Techs Mechanical A/C & Heat 6815 Koeblen Rd 77469

Ray Reuben American Veterans Survices (Avs) 4627 Dagg Rd 77048

Owolabi Abdulrahman B Little Angels Village Child Care And Learning Center 8234 Solara Bend 77083

Ndukwe Tracey School At Duke Haven 13203 Dusty Grove Ln 77498 Encenx Corporation Enx Energy Services 4100 Greenbriar Dr 150 77477 Lee Ta-Tseng Lh Bellfort/Fondren Ltd 4502 Highway 6 #13 77478 Flores Dena Networklabs.Com 9302 Hillhaven Court 77469 Flores Dena Michaeljentertainment.Com 9302 Hillhaven Court 77469 Sykes Earl W Aquarius Mobile Lock Service 5606 Irish Hill Dr 77053 Walker Charles W (+) Straight Way Ministries 3001 Dove Country #208 77477 Shed Monica Aaa Transportation Svc. See Instrument Sherade Yvette Yvettes Events 10502 Long River Dr 77498 Jimenez Virginia Jamerick Seafood & Grille 7222 Parade Park Bend 77407 Arthur Claxton Greener Pastures 2330 Canyon Meadow Dr 77489 Khani Reza Persian Collections The Rug Gallery 2005 S Mason Road #815 77450 Laurel Joel (+) J&J T.V. Calibration 7770 Basalm Crossing 77433

Mendez Cornelio Cj Landscape 7715 Tierra Verde 77083

Harris Dawn Joyful Noise Productions 22400 Westheimer Pkwy #119 77450 Williams Diana F Grandma’s Hands Of Prayer And Intercession 3319 Ashmont Ln 77459 Williams Diana Yeshua’s House Of Restoration 3319 Ashmont Ln 77459 Williams Diana F Aaron And Hur’s 3319 Ashmont Ln 77459 Mcgregor Cynthia G The Perfect Figure (+) 9811 Calverton Dr 77498 Donald Jarred K Jarred K Donald Dds, Llc 14239 Ingham Ct 77498 Perez Robert Jb Gift Post 2614 Orchard Creek Ln 77494 Calvillo Leonardo Madamozelle Bartending Agency P O Box 2774 77478 Tyler Family Eyecare Pllc Cinco Ranch Eye Care 5205 S Mason Rd Suite 160 77450 Hidden Gems Home Services Mathis Deborah 4602 Saint Michaels Ct 77479 Buchanan Sandra Eastfield Meadow 2015 Estfield Cr 77459 Buchanan Sandra Ada’s Personal Care Home 2015 Estfield Circle 77459 C V International Llc C V International, Llc. 2710 Grants Lake Blvd #03 77479

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

Clay Christopher First Class Custom Catering 2531 Morning Meadow 77489 Jimenez James Alexander B (+) Kitsune Ryu Inc 9018 Sienna Sky Ct 77407 Guevara Victor G.H.V. 13906 East Creek 77498 Montoya Stephen Montlaro Furniture 5680 Hwy 6 #301 77459 Montoya Stephen Montlargo Properties 5680 Hwy 6 #301 77459 Gordon Ronald M Wallhog Fine Art And Decor 2927 Pepperwood 77479 Piano Curriculum Series Piano Music Depot 3915 Misty Morn Lane 77479 Yoon Jay D&E Cross Art 26619 Marble Falls Bend 77494 Samuel Cherie A-Top Management & Industrial Enterprises 2601 Cartwright Rd Pmb 248 Ste D 77459 Drymala Foundation Drilling Inc Drymala Foundation Drilling 3201 Band Road 77471 Velasquez Photography Llc Velasquez Photography Llc 24123 Sunset Sky 77494 Brady Jeremy F Los Carnales/La Familia Mc Fort Bend 909 Baker Rd 77471

Vasquez Luis Ace Construction 4903 Cotton Lake Crt 77469

Galdamez Jose R J.G’s Tire Shop 2217 Ave H 77471

Carter Herschel Carter Transportation 2019 Foxhill Dr 77489

Galdamez Jose R Vanessa’s Auto Sales 2217 Ave H 77471

Antiaging Management And Research The Zerona Clinic (+) 1327 Lake Point Pkwy #301 77478

Chacko George Karate Budokan International And Yoga 445 Fm 1092 Suite #500 D 77477 Caldwell-Brown Carmellia Sano Home Health Care 510 Penwood Ct 77477 Lopez Guadalupe Guadalupe Lopez Cleaning Service 2615 Alamo St 77471 Abamba Francisca O (+) Aatria Ems 1206 Satillo Ln 77469

Emerald City Delivery Services Llc Emerald City Delivery Services Llc 1819 Wooded Acres Dr 77396 Balogh Robert W Jr (+) Regal Trading 2522 Country Place 77406 Chau Kimberly Kimberly Chau Photography 8810 Shady Green Meadows 77083 Covault Michael J (+) Mjc Assurance Solutions 32410 Waterhouse Ct 77441

System 360 Enterprises Elite Medical Practice Solutions 15239 Lynford Crest Dr 77083 Schaumburg Kris Kris Schaumburg Insurance System 360 Enterprises 1125 Creabb River Rd Ste 120 77469 Quality Web Solutions 15239 Lynford Crest Dr 77083 Wallace Tiffany Tiffany’s Dance Institute Hyman Vanessa 15510 -J Lexington Blvd 77478 Lvsaks.Com 8040 Sands Point Dr 77036 Mallory Joel Mallory And Associates Rohatgi Ashok K 5510 Parkstone Ct 77479t Muskan Travels 7407 Alder Springs Ln 77494 Coleman Steven J Coleman Handyman Services Ward Samuel T 2723 Cheryl Ct 77459 Ward And Ward Realestate Investors Company Southland Star Enterprises Llc 1915 Lantern Lane 77459 Zampro 3740 Cartwright Rd #265

Data Beat DBA (Assumed Names)

Hodge Harrison Jr 1St Step Educational Consultant 2215 Bright Meadow Dr 77489

Butler Resandra (+) High Quality Cleaning 7031 Trigate 77489

Boyd Tori Healthy Touch 2003 Polo Dr 77489

Quinones Rita A Twin Cities Wheel & Tires 1321 Cumings #1 Rear B 77471

Microwave Industrial Services Inc Htsc Custom Audio Video 11001 S Wilcrest #115 77089

White Elizabeth J L & R Designs 2226 Quail Valley East Dr 77459

Kronwinkler Michael F Harley’s Air Conditioning And Heat 89 Oak Ridge Drive 77578

Scott Rebecca Smith-Yates Reunion 2803 Cumberland Dr 77459

Middleton Sheri Middleton Therapies 3374 Continental Dr 77459

Smith Danita K (+) Greater Houston Carpet Cleaning 1817 3Rd St 77471

Gutierrez Ismael Taqueria Taco Bueno 1517 Jackson St 77469

Lloyd Cassandra L P’zaz Consultatn & Personal Assistant Services Llc 2922 Blue Mist Dr 77498

Austin Connie L Tastings Unlimited 17302 Pecan Acres Dr 77498

Hopkins R Marie Bluebonnet Biewer’s 21550 Hawkspur Ridge St 77406

Briggs David E Jr Briggs Security & Investigations 5602 Brennan Ridge Ln 77450

Lee-Truselair Niya Classe’ Duz 1914 Overbrook Cir 77459

Pavelka Kacee Texas Family Swim Club 7404 Town Center Blvd #1113 77471

Wall Lindsay Lindsay Wall Photography 2114 Dolan Hills Ct 77494

Khalil Jamal Go It Services 13107 Bainbridge 77065

Hester Janice J Martha’s Attic 25210 Taylor Park Ln 77494

Cox Joseph Louis Jewelry Services And Appraisals 4743 Silverlake Drive 77479

Ufomadu Obichi-Tex Transportation (Usa) 2326 Edgewood Dr 77459

Atkinson Grant Richmond Coffee Station Cafe 210 W Highway 90A 77469

Zabihullah Ahmadi (+) Afghan Cuisine 11920 Highwy 6 S Suite 1200 77498

Microwave Industrial Services Inc Houston Technical Service Company 1101 S Wilcrest #115 77099 Dilling Melvin Protected By 12034 Sturdivant 77477 Chilo Nathaniel J (+) Universal Restoration 6931 Descartes 77407 Arguello Carlos Luis J & C Home Improvement 25238 Sterling Cloud Ln 77494 Chacon Steve R (+) Heavy Equipment & Diesel Trouble Shooter : ) 8916 Union Street 77461 Wasiq Gladys Gladiola Cleaning Services 314 Buckeye Drive 77450

Diggins Willie Worldsubmits.Com 8319 Chelsea Bend Ct 77083 Chaudary Irfan Aim Wireless 2575 Elridge Pkwy Suite B 77478 Turner Gustavia The Best Of Fish And Wings (+) 432 Fm 1092 77477 Fadimu Abimbola A Wilbur And Orville Group 16543 Great Oaks Glen 77083 Wilson Antonio Clifton Bell Real Estate Services 4511 Forest Creek Drive 77459

Optioncraze Llc Optioncraze Tax Advisors 5518 Hickory Harvest Dr 77407 Pauley J Yvonne Tilley (+) Yvonne’s Southern Kitchen Greenhouse Jeremy J 3714 Hawkins Ct 77459 Extraordinary Creations 2402 Birch Canyon Ct 77545 Wilson Barbara Bw Enterprises Han Liqing 5418 Lynbrook 77057 New Vision @ 21 21406 Penshore Place Ln 77450 Wilson Keith W & W Locators Dearmon Jeremy M 1707 Miraglen Ct 77406 Dearmon Information Technologies Welch Shamara N 3334 Oak Branch Lane 77479 Dilectabites 3906 Teal Vista Court 77545 Kranz Marie E Marie E. Kranz, Spiller Darlene Professional Dog Walker Store Junkie 21906 Great Creek Ln 77450 3614 Elmwood Dale Drive 77545

Daniels Angela M Amd Anesthesia Services 23019 N Waterlake Dr 77406

Terry James Terrys Landscape 6230 Pebble Canyon Ct 77450

Kerley Harry F Jr (+) Poppa Bears Entertainment 8018 Woodward St 77051

Gomez Roy Ajj Towing & Recovery 2703 Rastus Rd 77477

Carter Rosa L (+) Starcom Petroleum 202 Nina Ln 77477

Ehimare Iguehi Delightful Chocolatier And Bonbonier 22136 Westheimer Pkwy Suite 251 77450

Nazias Couture International Nazia’s Couture 4722 Zachary Ln 77479

Newton Charles E Newton Home Inspections 4218 Oxbow Cir E 77441

Matthews Troy Jr Tee J’s Lawn Service 16722 Sonata Ct 77053 Edokpa Destiny Skribble Kid Productions 14410 Ardwell Drive 77498 Ehimare Iguehi Too Much To Cut Cakes 22136 Westheimer Pkwy Suite 251 77450 Ehimare Iguehi Perfect Favors 22136 Westheimer Pkwy Suite 251 77450

Evanich Timothy S.A.E Construction Unlimited 11803 Demia Ct 77477

Horvath Victor Southbend Woodworking 1911 Southbend Circle 77459 Edwards-Labome Theda (+) Med-Tech Office Management (+) 15402 Blueridge Court 77489 Musani Akberali Store Fixtures Supply 5826 New Territory Blvd #201 77479 Gutierrez Jose J R Flooring Solution (+) 640 West Palm St 77545 Fisher Sha Sha’ron (+) Love & Care Senior Living Facilitys 2303 Amber Wheat Ct 77545

(+) = More Names

Lengefeld Claire Sugar Me Sweet Bakery 14231 Fm 1464 Apt #14104 77498 Gordon Christian Houstons It 13902 Emerald Forest Ct 77498 Rechner Jimmy Katy Kustom Fence Staining 3606 Park Vine Ct 77450 Tidwell Lisa D Son-Light Services 4723 Pecan Lake Court 77406 Carney Robert New Age Energy Solutions 310 Morton St Suite 88 77469 Dixon Tanjalyn Trendz By The Girlz 3412 5Th Street 77423 Mclendon Jennifer C Vintage Charisma 3507 Woodbinedr 77441 Kitchens Nikki H Deep Brown Hue Creations/ Dbh Creations 1902 Oak Hollow Ct 77489 Rao William Rao Custom Builders 152 Lakeview Cir 77356 Miles Kim R Pure Heart Personal Care Home 8619 Bird Run 77489 Gemini Girl Enterpriese Inc J Harding & Associates Po Box 2105 77459 Gemini Girl Enterprises Inc No Limit Locators Po Box 2105 77459 Peterson William Quality Home Services 16406 Quail Meadow Ct 77489 Jimenez James-Alexander B Kitsune Ryu Martial Arts 9018 Sienna Sky Ct 77407

Mund Melissa Beautiful You 3314 Schroeder 77461

Salmon Cincy Dayane Yachiru Tsunami 9018 Sienna Sky Ct 77407

Huerta David (+) Hs Partners (+) 1627 Plantation Dr 77406

Jinks Donald Jr Jinks Sweeping For Le$$ 2506 Harpers Creek Court 77545

April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Data Beat

MARCH 2010 Sales Tax Allocation Comparison Summary Reports Sales Tax Allocation Comparison Summary reports present data about monthly local sales and use tax allocation payments to local sales taxing jurisdictions. These net payments represent monies identified for the local jurisdictions since the previous monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s distribution. These reports will allow you to compare current year sales and use tax payments with the previous year. When used with other local economic indicators, they may help indicate present and future trends. County/City Fort Bend

Net Payment This Period

Comp Payment Prior Year

% Change To Date

2009 Payments To Date

2008 Payments Change

Percent

Arcola Beasley Fulshear Kendleton Meadows Place Missouri City Needville Orchard Pleak Richmond Rosenberg Simonton Stafford Sugar Land Thompsons

19,456.01 6,374.06 22,532.47 1,305.95 65,773.75 426,252.63 26,501.94 3,903.80 2,438.40 293,598.36 730,893.51 9,634.73 902,272.24 2,801,638.13 6,874.90

25,007.70 6,038.43 31,494.68 1,211.52 72,233.04 453,844.26 25,464.80 3,722.42 3,899.56 315,619.51 793,778.25 2,772.05 1,130,989.41 2,900,290.41 0.00

-22.19% 5.55% -28.45% 7.79% -8.94% -6.07% 4.07% 4.87% -37.46% -6.97% -7.92% 247.56% -20.22% -3.40% U/C

61,502.87 18,248.79 87,252.52 4,076.06 238,850.68 1,488,186.02 80,685.27 11,562.85 22,107.06 1,032,426.04 2,677,785.64 21,748.77 3,162,962.40 10,273,982.97 9,912.81

111,702.75 18,034.48 97,352.34 4,215.39 286,666.90 1,590,412.83 108,911.81 11,969.08 10,076.78 1,126,075.90 2,867,455.07 12,069.35 4,025,058.64 10,977,062.24 5,341.51

-44.94% 1.18% -10.37% -3.30% -16.68% -6.42% -25.91% -3.39% 119.38% -8.31% -6.61% 80.19% -21.41% -6.40% 85.58%

County Total

5,319,450.88

5,766,366.04

-7.75%

19,191,290.75

21,252,405.07

-9.69%

Top 20 City Sales and Use Tax Comparison Summary - MARCH 2010 Please note that Sugar Land is 16th in sales tax revenues in the state. City

Houston Dallas San Antonio Austin Fort Worth Arlington El Paso Round Rock McAllen Plano Amarillo Corpus Christi Lubbock Irving Frisco Sugar Land Tyler Grand Prairie Mesquite Midland

Net Payment This Period

Comp Payment Prior Year

35,058,255.21 15,207,990.78 14,576,956.64 10,141,851.71 7,057,355.67 6,065,012.97 4,864,424.03 4,825,814.63 3,723,422.99 4,209,196.15 3,802,375.07 3,855,031.36 3,442,723.78 3,470,328.26 2,710,123.69 2,801,638.13 2,490,399.46 2,577,378.25 2,267,375.39 2,339,417.78

39,634,609.38 15,088,597.27 14,781,619.48 9,965,861.86 7,405,481.14 5,752,278.06 4,828,618.63 4,548,981.33 4,130,785.26 4,201,093.98 4,096,110.86 4,405,764.75 3,494,125.33 3,458,085.38 2,685,460.92 2,900,290.41 2,599,190.54 2,995,579.25 2,182,654.64 2,760,070.90

Fort Bend Business Journal â&#x20AC;˘ April 2010

% Change To Date

2009 Payments To Date

-11.54% 120,422,129.22 0.79% 52,395,473.62 -1.38% 52,226,655.02 1.76% 35,273,902.21 -4.70% 25,000,535.96 5.43% 20,656,140.53 0.74% 17,641,830.91 6.08% 16,217,226.16 -9.86% 15,608,211.02 0.19% 15,281,735.56 -7.17% 14,217,391.08 -12.50% 13,759,868.08 -1.47% 12,625,754.91 0.35% 11,228,720.53 0.91% 10,299,403.75 -3.40% 10,273,982.97 -4.18% 8,873,736.11 -13.96% 8,788,771.36 3.88% 8,693,818.76 -15.24% 8,470,994.49

2008 Payments Change

Percent

139,983,848.68 57,000,672.78 53,373,470.99 34,130,942.22 25,934,480.22 20,377,849.94 17,329,821.64 15,664,116.89 15,828,300.76 15,355,561.83 15,167,499.99 16,011,138.45 12,840,218.12 11,831,550.69 10,276,503.04 10,977,062.24 9,488,371.59 8,855,081.90 8,653,789.31 10,317,838.84

-13.97% -8.07% -2.14% 3.34% -3.60% 1.36% 1.80% 3.53% -1.39% -0.48% -6.26% -14.06% -1.67% -5.09% 0.22% -6.40% -6.47% -0.74% 0.46% -17.89%

Data Beat

Commercial Building Permits

Some significant building permits in cities in Fort Bend during the month of February ADDRESS

TYPE OF PERMIT

VALUE

ROSENBURG 1220 Mulcahy St. 1600 Avenue 9 4925 Avenue H 1317 Nahlmann St. 6314 Orange Blossom Ln.

Commercial Bulding Commercial Bulding Commercial Bulding Commercial Bulding Commercial Bulding

$10,000 $80,000 $106,440 $70,660 $10,000

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial & Residential)

02/01/10-02/28/10

$297,710

STAFFORD 10311 West Airport Blvd 101 4403 Greenbriar Dr

Commercial Bulding Commercial Bulding

$28,000 $725,000

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial & Residential)

02/01/10-02/28/10

$760,500

SUGAR LAND 12890 State Hwy Ste C 17510 W Grand Pkwy S 1601 Industrial Blvd 14100 Southwest Fwy Ste 500 16535 Southwest Fwy Ste 265

Commercial New Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel

$988,929 $229,000 $50,000 $46,500 $74,000

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial & Residential)

02/01/10-02/28/10

$14,761,856

OWNER/CONTRACTOR Segunda Igelsia Bautista Katy Stone & Gravel Inc Edward & Deana Kahlenberg/Joe Ochoa Roofing Inc US Rentals Inc/Simon Roofing & Sheet Metal Chesmar Homes, LTD

Commercial Texas/G D & K Construction Dynamic Voice Data Inc/G LS&A Constructors

Longhorn Holding, LLC/LDF Construction, Inc Memorial Hermann Hostpital/Gen-Tech Construction, LLC Geka Properties, LP / O’Donnel/Snider Construction RMC Sugarcraft, LP ETAL/Wimberly Construction LLC First Colony Mall, LLC/Hunter Building Corp

Significant Land Transactions Some significant land transactions in Fort Bend during the month of February 2010. Land transactions can be researched on line at http://ccweb.co.fort-bend.tx.us/search.asp?cabinet=opr. Some entries may be conveying mineral rights. SELLER

BUYER

Fort Bend Independent North Fort Bend School District Water Authority Guo Li F (+) North Fort Bend Water Authority Family Life Christian Fellowship North Fort Bend Ft Bend County Water Authority Marek Erna Dusek Fort Bend County Drainage District Sitta Raymond E Jr (+) Fort Bend County Drainage District Hannover Estates Ltd (+) Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District No 141 Estates Ltd (+) Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District No 141 Perez Elias R (+) Fort Bend County Water Control And Improvement District No 2 D M Best Company Inc North Fort Bend Water Authority Wallis State Bank (+) Wallis State Bank (+) Sienna Plantation Levee Improvement Missouri City Of District Of Fort Bend County Texas Woodcreek Pin Oak Ltd (+) Public Rp Sasser Lllp Sugar Land City Of

ACRES

SELLER

BUYER

ACRES

Part 0.3615 Ac

The Commonwealth Civic Association Inc (+) Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District No 136 Terrabrook Cinco Ranch Southwest Lp (+) Nnp-Telfair Lp (+) Ranch Southwest Lp (+) Terrabrook Cinco Ranch Southwest Lp (+) Terrabrook Cinco Ranch Southwest Lp (+) Houston Lighting & Power Company (+) Cardiff Ranch L P (+) Cardiff Ranch L P (+) Cardiff Ranch L P (+)

Sugar Land City Of

0.0485 Ac

Sugar Land City Of

0.059 Ac

Cinco Southwest Municipal Utility District No 1 Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District No 137 Cinco Southwest Municipal Utility District No 1 Public

0.3586 Ac

Part 0.0608 Ac Part 0.2663 Ac Part 0.4153 Ac Part 0.8651 Ac Part 0.3102 Ac Hannover Part 0.0285 Ac Part 0.0027 Ac Part 1.410 Ac Part 0.496 Ac Part 5.420 Ac 0.09 Ac 0.731 Ac

Part 0.700 Ac Terrabrook Cinco 0.0411 Ac 0.0995 Ac

Cinco Southwest Municipal Utility District No 1 Houstonian Golf Ltd (+)

0.8647 Ac

Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District No 57 Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District No 57 Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District No 57

0.006 Ac

109.80 Ac

0.321 Ac 0.007 Ac

April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Missouri City unveils new proactive policing policies

aking a further step to promote partnerships with the community, the Missouri City Police Department has initiated a Crime Tip Line and an online program to help residents combat crime. The new high-tech user-friendly tools can be accessed on the City’s website, www.missouricitytx.gov. Viewers can click “Tracking Crime” under “Quick Links” to access the crime database, a crime tip form and a house watch program. “While crimes against persons have gone down, we have seen an increase in crimes against property in the past year,” said Police Chief Joel Fitzgerald. “Missouri City Police want Joel Fitzgerald all of our residents to be educated as to what is happening in our community and help us prevent crime. When it does occur, we welcome your information to help us bring these assailants to justice.” The free, crime-mapping national database, called RAIDS Online, allows residents to track all crimes including major or, as they are called, Part I crimes, using applications that group offenses by category and type, location and detailed information charts. Part I crimes include murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, larceny, motor vehicle theft and arson. By checking the “Other” box, all other crimes are shown. Citizens can select a date range, click the Map tab and then zoom in on their neighborhood or take a broader view of the City. Clicking on the colored icons on the map brings up specific information on that incident. The Data Grid tab allows viewers to look at a word table and the Analytics tab shows viewers crime in various chart forms by the date range selected. The website now includes two new forms for residents. Viewers can also log on to report offenses through a new crime tip form. Tipsters can remain anonymous while sharing important clues to help the

Photos courtesy of Missouri City

Police Department solve crimes. Another service is the house watch program, which helps police safeguard residents’ homes while they are away on business or vacation. Requests should be submitted 48 hours before departure and the length of absence should be at least three days and fewer than three weeks in duration. Homes are checked once per police shift, or three times per day. Residents can also call the police department at 281-403-8700 to request this service. Another new innovative weapon in the Police Department’s crime-fighting arsenal is their new tip line—281-403-5868. The

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

Tip Line is monitored by officers in the Criminal Investigation Division and callers can leave their contact information for officers or they can remain anonymous. “These tools allow residents to use the internet to access forms that will get quick responses from Missouri City Police,” said Fitzgerald. “We want to provide residents with all the best possible ways of getting leads to the Police Department to solve these cases.” For residents used to viewing the Daily Crime Report from the homepage, that information will continue to be posted each day under “Hot Topics”.

Violent crimes down in Sugar Land

iolent crime in Sugar Land decreased 11 percent during 2009 and investigative clearance rates improved by 4.7 percent, according to the Sugar Land Police Department’s 2009 Annual Report. Sugar Land’s violent crime rate in 2009 was 1.38 per capita, down from 1.55 in 2008, which was still well below the state’s violent crime rate of 5.08 per capita and the nation at 4.55. While Sugar Land’s overall crime rate has declined from 27.47 per capita in 2005 to 24.68 in 2009, the City’s crime rate slightly increased from 23.68 in 2008 to 24.68 in 2009. “There’s been a perception in the community fueled by a few high-profile crimes that we are experiencing a sharp rise in crime,” said Police Chief Doug Brinkley. “The data clearly shows that our overall crime rate has remained mostly flat over the last several years. The slight increase we saw last year is due to several non-violent crime categories, including shoplifting and vehicle burglaries.” The following factors contributed to a 5.3

percent increase in property crimes during 2009: • Robberies increased from 43 in 2008 to 61 in 2009. Many were shoplifting cases. • 67 percent of burglaries were in residential areas. Doug Brinkley • 29 percent of all burglaries had no forced entry (doors unlocked). • 61 percent of thefts were over $200, 18 percent were between $50 and $200, and 21 percent were under $50. • The majority of thefts involved vehicle burglaries and shoplifting. Several police initiatives were implemented last year to address property crimes, including a partnership with retail districts and neighborhoods to encourage the use cameras for security purposes. SLPD also created a task force that focused exclusively on vehicle burglaries, shopper safety and public education. “Our priority is to ensure our community is safe, and I believe we have effectively accomplished this through departmental priorities that include enforce-

ment, partnerships, technology and quality staffing,” said Brinkley. “However, it’s also important that citizens feel safe, so we have developed a plan to more effectively communicate directly with our citizens.” While the number of high-profile incidents declined from 2008 to 2009 (i.e., seven driveway robberies in 2008 compared to five in 2009 and five home invasions in 2008 compared to four in 2009), feedback from the public seemed to indicate a concern with increased crime in Sugar Land compared to other areas. To ensure the distribution of accurate, timely information, SLPD will focus additional resources toward the better distribution of crime data through direct communications with homeowner associations, SLtv 16, e-policing and the Crime Prevention Division. SLPD continues to offer crime data online through a Daily Crime Report tool that allows citizens to search for criminal activity near specific addresses. The new tool provides a visual representation of exactly where crimes have occurred in Sugar Land neighborhoods.

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April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Rosenberg Development Corporation Business Appreciation Reception a success

he Rosenberg Development Corporation (RDC) Business Appreciation Reception sported a new look in 2010, and based on the increased attendance, the event was a smashing success. More than 250 attendees packed into the Rosenberg Civic Center on Feb. 25 in search of information, networking opportunities and some of the finest food the city has to offer. The event, which was designed to show appreciation to Rosenberg businesses, provided business owners with information and resources to grow their business and answered questions for budding business owners in the process of starting a new business. The Reception offered attendees the opportunity to sample some of the finest cuisine in the city. Schultze’s Bar-B-Que, Bob’s Taco Station, Gringo’s Tex-Mex, Cracker Barrel, Another Time Soda Fountain, Texas Roadhouse, Kroger Marketplace, Chic-fil-A and Frito Lay provided complimentary tastes of their fares. Silver Eagle Distributors provided soft beverages.

More than 250 people attended the event.

Exhibitors included American Red Cross, Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance, Conrad N. Hilton School of Restaurant and Hotel Management, Fort Bend Herald, CFBCA Hispanic Business Division, Rosenberg Development Corporation, Texana Center, UH–TX Manufacturing Assistance Center,

University of Houston Fort Bend County Small Business Development Center, various City Departments, Wharton County Junior College Fort Bend Technical Center, Texas State Technical College, West Fort Bend Management District and Workforce Solutions.

The gathering of men in Fort Bend County

hursday, April 15, Army Captain Chris Plekenpol will speaks for the story triumph and tragedy in the midst of

battle. He will speak of life and death situations on the battlefield, both spiritually and physically, that will grab your attention and your heart. Chris will talk about the relationships he had with his men, some of which were full of fear and some were cynical about life and God. Chris ministered to the men who would allow it and wrote a book based on his experiences in Iraq. “Faith in the Fog of War”, a soldier’s journal. The luncheon will be held at the LYF Center of Sugar Creek Baptist Church at 11:30am. Cost is $15 to be paid at the door

by cash or check. To make a reservation if you have any question or call 281732-5646. In September 2004, Chris and his company were deployed from Korea Chris Plekenpol for duty in Iraq. Chris’s unit, the Apache Company, 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, supported U.S. Marines during the Fallujah campaign conducted in early November of that year. Chris was responsible for the lives of 100 men in Iraq where his leadership capabilities were put to the ultimate test. Oliver North, Host of “War Stories” on Fox News wrote: “Faith forged in the crucible of combat! Chris Plekenpol is a

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

warrior and he has comprised a great guide for victory in the battles we all face.” Having witnessed unparalleled horrors during his service, Chris sought the love and support of God and the Lord Jesus Christ to help him and his men endure the hardships of their military experience. Chris tells the story of several men, all who were under the stress of battle, not knowing whether or not they would survive that day. Chris will tell how God used him to speak to the hearts of his men, as the men were searching on how to be the warrior that God created them to be. Chris graduated from West Point, with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and will graduate from Dallas Theological Seminary at the end of this semester.

Perry forces budget cuts for Wharton County Junior College

uition and tax increases, are among the strategies Wharton County Junior College is proposing in response to Gov. Rick Perry’s request to identify savings totaling five percent of the state appropriation to Wharton County Junior College for the 2010-11 biennium. In a letter to the governor and other state legislators, WCJC President Betty McCrohan expressed concern about the long-term effects of such budget cuts. “The future of our state depends on an educated workforce, and reductions in educational opportunities for the growing number of unemployed and under-employed citizens could undermine the state’s ability to respond to future opportunities,” she said. State community colleges and universities, as well as all state agencies, were directed by Perry to submit plans to cut five percent from their general revenue appropriations for each of the fiscal years 2010 and 2011. Given that the 2010 fiscal year is half over, McCrohan called the timing of the request “problematic.” WCJC’s five percent reduction for fiscal year 2010 totals $421,745. “Classes are already in progress for the spring semester and most appropriations have already been obligated for instructional expenses,” said McCrohan. Compounding the request for funding cuts is increased enrollments at all Texas community colleges. WCJC has experienced unprecedented enrollment increases of 11 percent in fall 2009 and nearly 14 percent in spring 2010. McCrohan said, “Any reduction in state appropriations will impact the college’s ability to meet the increasing demand for educational services for our students, many of whom are first time in college and demonstrate unmet financial need.” WCJC’s state appropriation for fiscal year 2011 that faces the chopping block is $421,744 – one dollar less than fiscal year 2010. Because of the college’s small tax base, McCrohan says the current tax rate will not generate sufficient revenues to offset the projected reductions. Other strategies proposed by WCJC to meet the funding cuts include: • Reducing travel and limiting purchases of all but essential instructional equipment and supplies, • Postponing expansion or development of new workforce programs including those in high demand fields such as the health professions, • Reducing general institution expenditures including library hours, • Delaying implementation of special programs like tutoring, mandatory advising and learning centers targeted at improving the success of first-year students, • Reducing community service programs, • Postponing implementation of new P-16 initiatives with public schools in the WCJC serve area.

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ADVANCE RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

To be listed

Call at 281-690-4200

S E R V I C E D I R E C T O R Y

Accountants Gerald Blakemore, CPA P.C. • 281-201-1809 www.geraldblakemorecpapc.com gerald@geraldblakemorecpapc.com Tax preparation and consulting for business and individuals. Accounting and bookkeeping services. Member: QuickBooks ProAdvisor® Program. No charge for initial consultation. Douglas T. Brown, CPA • 281-265-8366 www.douglastbrown.com. doug@douglastbrown.com. One Sugar Creek Center Blvd., Suite 970, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Tax preparation and consulting for individuals, businesses, trusts and estates. Accounting and bookkeeping services for small to medium size businesses. Serving all of Houston, Katy and Sugar Land. We focus on your needs to provide exactly the service you require. Call or email for a free consultation. Dennis Fernelius, CPA • 281-342-5342 Now affiliated with Philip Hammon III, PLLC CPA’s, 2501 1st Street, Rosenberg, TX 77471, 281-342-5342 or www.philhamman.com. Continuing to serve the East Fort Bend Business community • Questions call 281-261-7551 • Personal/Business tax planning and compliance • Accounting • Popular accounting software setup and support. Sandersen, Knox & Belt, LLP • 281-242-3232 www.SKBTexas.com asandersen@skbtexas.com. Alan K. Sandersen, CPA, 13401 Southwest Freeway #101, Sugar land, TX 77478, E-mail: Fax: 281-242-3252. Taxation, financial statements, audits-business/governmental.

Advertising Fort Bend Business Journal • 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com Fort Bend’s ONLY business publication. Fort Bend Focus • 281-690-4242 www.fortbendfocus.com Fort Bend’s ONLY feature magazine Direct mailed to almost 40,000 homes every month in Fort Bend’s most affluent subdivisions. Fort Bend Star - 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com We have been delivering a free community newspaper to homes throughout Fort Bend County longer than ANY OTHER Newspaper.

Advertising, Promotional Specialties Blue Jungle Marketing - 281-240-6700 www.bluejunglemarketing.com jmunnell@bluejunglemarketing.com. Jim Munnell, 10700 Corporate Drive, Suite 100, Stafford, Tx 77477, Fax: 281-240-6711, signs, promo. products, tradeshow displays, web design, etc.

Business Spirit Promotional Products 281-208-1100 www.BusinessSpirit.com Gifts • Travel Mugs • Caps • T-shirts • Briefcases • Food Gifts • Sport Towels • Knives • Rulers • Golf Items • Awards • Pens • Calculators • Canvas Bags • Calendars • Manicure Sets • Key Tags • Mirrors • Letter Openers • Flashlights • Imprinted Plastic Bags • Journals • Radios • Crayons • Coffee Mugs • Stress Relievers • Jackets • Chocolates • Nuts • plus 475,000 other items on our website!

Air Conditioning & Heating/Sales & Service Fresh Air, L.P. • 281-499-3511 www.freshairinc.com sonnyr@freshairinc.com. Sonny Roncancio, 5702 Power Line Rd., Richmond, TX 77469. Fax: 281-3441189, Serving Fort Bend Since 1971; Residential & commercial sales/service.

Attorney At Law Law Office of Robert Hohenberger 713-680-9454 www.law-tex.com 2500 Wilcrest Drive, Suite 107, Houston, Texas 77042 Specializing in areas of Family Law, Debt Resolution, Debt Mediation, Consumer Bankruptcy and Business Bankruptcy. Board certified in Family Law, Consumer Bankruptcy, and Commercial Bankruptcy. Will help with other legal issues as well. Law Office of Melissa G. Martin, P.C. 281-343-8914 www.mgmartinlaw.com Melissa G. Martin, P.C. , 19901 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, Texas 77479. A general practice law firm in Sugar Land. Handles all legal matters including, but not limited to, business and commercial law, family law, insurance, and personal injury. Will give you the individualized attention you need. Call for a free consultation 281 343 8914. The Showalter Law Firm • 281 341 5577 www.showalterlaw.com mail@showalterlaw.com. David W. Showalter, 1117 FM 359, Suite 200 Richmond, TX 77469 Fax: 281341-5572.

Auto Repair / Maintenance AAMCO of Stafford • 281-879-0055 12103 Murphy Road, Stafford, Texas 77477. Complete Car Care Center. Lifetime Warranty Available. Specializes in Foreign and Domestic vehicle. Certified and Professionally Trained Technicians with over 40 years of experience. State of the Art Diagnostic testing equipment. Honors manufacturer’s and extended warranties. Free towing available. Free shuttle service available. FREE Nationwide Warranty. Auto Central-Automotive Service & Sales 281-499-9684 www.autocentral.biz david@autocentral.biz. David Fauvelle, 2526 Fifth Street, Stafford, Texas 77477, Fax: 281-499-0183, Fast, friendly and professional automotive repair. AAA approved auto repair.

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

Charlton’s Body Repair • 281-499-1126 www.charltonsbodyrepair.com. Chuck Charlton, 1131 Staffordshire @ 5th St., Stafford, TX 77477, Fax: 281-499-1694, Complete collision repair. Frame & Unibody straightened. Expert computer color matching. Custom painting & pin stripping. Honest service. 79 Years Strong and 3 Generations Proud! Colony One Auto Center • 281-980-4440 www.colonyoneauto.com Rod Tate, 1131 Dulles Avenue, Stafford, TX 77477, Fax: 281-261-0048, Complete state of the art automotive repair & maintenance facility. First Tire & Automotive • 281-313-2886 www.firsttireandauto.com Craig Popp, owner, 3 Sugar Land Locations. 960 Eldridge, 281-313-2886 & 2303 Williams Trace Blvd. 281-980-2666 (First Colony), 20015 Southwest Freeway. 281-343-5666 (Greatwood), Diagnostic testing and evaluation, Manufacturer’s routine recommended maintenance, domestic and foreign vehicle repairs, AAA approved, ASE certified. Ask about our Fleet Service!

Banks Frost Bank - Stafford • 713-388-1191 www.frostbank.com 3531 S. Main, Stafford, TX 77477, Fax: 713-388-7600, Three Fort Bend County locations to meet your banking needs. Founders Bank • 281-325-5000 www.foundersbanktx.com Email: customerservice@foundersbanktx.com. Fax: 281-325-5050. Fort Bend County only. Locally owned and managed bank. 4690 Sweetwater Blvd., Sugar Land 77479 Houston Community Bank - Fort Bend 281-343-7700 www.houstoncommunitybank.com cleatherwood@houstoncommunitybank.com. Claude Leatherwood, Greatwood Lakes Bldg., 19855 SW Frwy, Ste 100, Sugar Land, TX 77479, Fax: 281-343-7787. Full service community bank. Houston Community Bank - Stafford 281-208-2111 www.houstoncommunitybank.com jsmith@houstoncommunitybank, Jeff Smith, 13811 Murphy Road, Stafford, TX 77477, Fax: 281-208-4420. Community bank offering a broad range of financial services. The State Bank of Texas • 281-494-6686 www.tsbot.com nbb@tsbot.com. Nicki Black, 13010 Murphy Road, Stafford, TX 77477, Fax: 281-494-6747, , Locally and independently owned - our prime interest is you! Sterling Bank - Fort Bend • 281-277-0100 12840 Southwest Freeway, Stafford, TX 77477, Fax: 281-277-0223, Serving owner-operated businesses with local decision makers.

12 MONTHS LISTING FOR ONLY $300

Blinds / Window Coverings Budget Blinds • 281-416-8499 www.budgetblinds.com bdimmitt@budgetblinds.com. Bob Dimmitt, 1306 FM 1092, Suite 401, Missouri City, TX 77459, Fax: 832220-8051, Custom window coverings, personal style consultant, “expert fit” measuring and installation.

Business Coaching The Growth Coach • 281-841-6680 www.TheGrowthCoachHouston.com g.smith@thegrowthcoach.com The most experienced business coaching team in Ft Bend County! Our staff has over 50 years combined experience mentoring business owners. We help busy entrepreneurs to slow down, catch their breath, reflect and map out the critical changes they need to improve their businesses and lives. Our clients get results! In the end they make more money, work less, and enjoy a better life.

12 MONTHS LISTING FOR ONLY $300 Catering Chef for You Chef Service & Catering 281-313-2433 www.chef4u.net. 9920 Highway 90-A, Suite B-260, Sugar Land, Texas 77478, Call Marcie to handle your next luncheon or dinner party. Check our online Corporate Catering Menu which can be customized to meet your needs.

Chiropractors Smouse Chiropractic & Scoliosis Center • 281-494-5144 www.scoliosistreatmentctr.com doctor.scoliosis@worldnet.att.net. Gary F. Smouse, DC, and Stephanie M. Smouse, BS, DC, 14015 Southwest Freeway #9, Sugar Land, TX 77478, Fax: 281-4942975, Chiropractic care with a non-surgical treatment of scoliosis.

Computer, Sales & Services Fast-Teks On-site Computer Services Greater Sugar Land / Katy Fort Bend Area • 281-857-6227 www.fastteks.com mkirkpatrick@fastteks.com. Business & residential computer specialists. Troubleshooting, Virus Removal, DSL & Cable setup, Wireless Networking, Data Back Up and Recovery, Preventative Maintenance Agreements, Website Development and more. 281-857-6227. New Dimensions Multimedia Computing • 281-980-4106 www.newdimcomputers.com normvoss@newdimcomputers.com. Norm Voss, 1108 Soldier’s Field Court, Suite 100, Sugar Land, TX 77479, Fax: 281-980-4107, Computer Sales, Service & Networking.

Construction Material Provider Sprint Sand & Clay Dispatch 281-277-5404 www.sprintsandandclay.com Sprint Sand & Clay is a full-service construction material provider of sand and clay type material with trucking, excavation, demolition, and other construction capabilities. Sprint Sand & Clay will work with you to provide everything you will need to start a successful build project. Whether a contractor is looking for select fill, sand or mulch; Sprint Sand & Clay can provide you with the material you need, when and where you need it. P.O. Box 19129 Houston TX 77224.

Country Clubs

Hardee Investment Group @ RBC Wealth Management • 713-853-0879 www.hardeeinvestmentgroup.com will.hardee@rbc.com Will Hardee, 1001 Fannin Street, Ste. 1200, Houston, TX 77002, Fax: 713-651-3366, 800-838-0757 tollfree. Investment management, financial long term planning and consulting. Sugar Creek Financial Group • 281-565-2266 www.sugarcreekgroup.com robroy@windstream.net. Robert H. Roy, ChFC, Fax: 281-565-2277, 12946 Dairy Ashford #350, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Life, Health, Pensions, Investments for businesses and individuals.

Fitness Center

Riverbend Country Club • 281-269-2526 www.riverbendcountryclub.org triciarbcc@gmail.com. Tricia Hawks, 1214 Dulles Avenue, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Conveniently located in the heart of Sugar Land, Riverbend Country Club is just 25 minutes south of downtown Houston, Texas. Established in 1957, Riverbend continues its tradition as Fort Bend County’s only member owned club. Whether you’re looking for championship golf, fine dining, pools, tennis, fitness facilities or a wide variety of social and golf activities Riverbend is definitely the place to belong. The Houstonian Golf & Country Club 281-494-4245 www.houstoniangolf.com Nicole Scarbrough, Membership Private golf & country club, *Limited membership available.

Debt Collection Services Beta Financial Services LLC • 281-208-0656 Roger Harris, Manager. Beta Financial Services LLC, 2601 Cartwright Road D161, Missouri City Texas 77459. Office 281-208-0656. Fax 281-403-3415

Debt Resolution Services Robert Hohenberger, Attorney at Law 713-680-9454 www.law-tex.com 2500 Wilcrest Drive, Suite 107, Houston, Texas 77042. In times like these, with layoffs, reduced income, and increased interest rates, let us help you deal with your creditors to develop a plan to reduce and resolve your debt. We offer Debt Resolution, Debt Mediation, Income Tax payment plans and more. Call today for a consultation.

Financial Products & Services Cohen Jacobs Financial Services C.J. Eaden, CITRMS • 281-499-8484 www.cybercopsusa.com idtking@yahoo.com, 802 Texas Parkway Suite G, Stafford, TX 77477 Fax: 281-499-2712 Providers of Identity Theft Protection and Restoration for individuals and small business owners, including a suite of services which provides help in every phase of Identity Theft. We help small business owners comply with new Federal Trade Commission guidelines on Identity Theft. Free training and education provided.

Curves for Women Pecan Grove - 832-451-8160 Sugar Land by the Mall - 281-240-0998 Stafford - 281-564-6161 Missouri City - 281-208-9260 30 minute fitness & weight loss center for women.

Gifts Edible Arrangements – Stafford The Fountains Shopping Center 281-313-7848 (281-31-FRUIT) Fresh fruit arrangements and gift boxes for pick-up and delivery in a variety of sizes. Our arrangements are hand-sculpted fresh fruit “bouquets” that artfully resemble floral arrangements and can be customized with gourmet chocolate, plush bears, and Mylar balloons. An edible arrangement is perfect way to say thank you, happy birthday, get well or congratulations, great for any meeting or celebration.

Golf Carts/Mobility Scooters CBC Golf Cart Services, Inc. 281-494-1164 Scooters by CBC 281-494-3454 www.cbcgolfcarts.com chris1001@windstream.net, 203 Ulrich Street, Sugar Land, TX 77498 (Behind Imperial Sugar). CBC offers Sales, Service, New & Used, Rentals and Parts for two lines of products, GOLF CARTS and MOBILITY SCOOTERS. Authorized Dealer for Fairplay and Pride Mobility products. fax 281-494-1189

Identity Theft Cohen Jacobs Financial Services C.J. Eaden, CITRMS • 281-499-8484 www.cybercopsusa.com idtking@yahoo.com, 802 Texas Parkway Suite G, Stafford, TX 77477 Fax: 281-499-2712 Providers of Identity Theft Protection and Restoration for individuals and small business owners, including a suite of services which provides help in every phase of Identity Theft. We help small business owners comply with new Federal Trade Commission guidelines on Identity Theft. Free training and education provided.

Insurance Agencies Agentwalker.com - State Farm Insurance 281-265-0711 tracy@agentwalker.com - Tracy Walker ChFC, CLU, CASL. AKA Soccer Mom, Baseball Mom, Football Mom 15510 Lexington Blvd Ste N Sugar Land, TX 77478 Providing Insurance and Financial Services

April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

S E R V I C E D I R E C T O R Y

To be listed

Call at 281-690-4200

S E R V I C E D I R E C T O R Y

Assurance One of Texas, LLC • 281-494-6400 email@sugarlandinsuranceagent.com. Cherie Young, 245 Commerce Green Blvd., #110, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Members of Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce since 1993. Full Service Independent Insurance Agency specializing in the Best Customer Service available. Insurance Solutions of Texas 281-565-2222 • 281-341-5060 www.insurancesolutionsoftexas.com Jay Harris, Auto, Home, Business, Flood Insurance. 14140 Southwest Freeway, Suite 150, Sugar Land, Texas 77478. 281-565-2222, Fax 281-565-3333. 2515 Ave. H, Rosenberg, Texas 77471. 281-341-5060, Fax 281-341-5558. Mark Dalton Insurance Agency • 281-242-2333 www.mdaltoninsurance.com service@mdaltoninsurance.com. Mark Dalton, 101 Southwestern Blvd. #106, P.O. Box 1205, Sugar Land, TX 77487-1205, Fax: 281-242-9162, Auto, Home, Life, Business, Insurance. Serving Ft Bend County for 25 yrs. Dan Noltensmeyer & Associates 281-342-7200 Nationwide Insurance, 19974 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, Texas 77479, Fax: 281-342-7203 State Farm Insurance • 281-265-0707 tracy.walker.le19@statefarm.com. Tracy Walker, 15510 Lexington #N, Sugar Land, Texas 77478, Fax: 281-265-0707, Mutual funds, IRA’s, Life, Business Insurance, Auto, Home, Health.

Investment Companies Edward Jones • 281-494-3737 www.edwardjones.com Gayle.Swafford@edwardjones.com Gayle L. Swafford - Financial Advisor. 4623 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land, Texas 77479, Fax: 888-849-8932, Financial services firm specializing in helping individual investors achieve their goals. Your local source for a variety of investments and financial services.

Fort Bend Focus - 281-690-4242 www.fortbendfocus.com Fort Bend’s ONLY feature magazine Direct mailed to almost 40,000 homes every month in Fort Bend’s most affluent subdivisions.

Medical Equipment & Supplies Active American Mobility & Medical Supply, 281-265-3155 www.aamobility.com 15229 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478, Fax: 281-265-6058. Full line of mobility solutions and medical supplies.

Mortgage Realty Plus Mortgage - 281-403-3905 realtyplus@acninc.net. We have experienced loan officers to find the right mortgage. Experienced Realtors to explain the process & answers your questions to help you find a house and negotiate a contract to achieve you Real Estate goals. 2823 Dulles Ave., Missouri City, 281-403-3905, fax 281-403-1080, 1-877-405-3905. BBB Member, License No. 227

New Construction, Custom/ Planned Community Lakes of Mission Grove - 281-341-7010 www.mission-grove.com missiongrove@ev1.net. Sam Harrison, 1121 F.M. 359, Richmond, TX 77469 Fax: 281-341-5572. New Home Builders, LLC - 281-980-3390 ww.NHBrealtor.com dmiller@realtor.com. Diana Miller, 19901 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, Texas 77479, Fax: 281-9807640 Real estate firm specializing in new construction, custom/planned community.

Newspaper Fort Bend Star • 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com We have been delivering a free community newspaper to homes throughout Fort Bend County longer than ANY OTHER Newspaper.

Optometrists

Jewelers J Loggins Jewelers Fort Bend’s Custom Jeweler • 281-242-2900 www.jloggins.com info@jloggins.com. 14015 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Fax: 281-242-0839. Custom Design, Custom Repairs, Custom Makeovers. Full-Service Fine Jewelry Store, carrying famous designer lines.

Locksmith B&B Locksmiths • 281-392-5500 www.bandblocksmiths.com. bblocksmiths@consolidated.net. 624 S. Mason Rd., Katy, TX 77450, Fax 281-395-5625. Full service locksmith including safe sales & service: Commercial, Residential, and Automotive.

Magazine Fort Bend Business Journal • 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com Fort Bend’s ONLY business publication.

Today’s Vision - 281-242-2020 www.2020sugarland.com todaysvision@2020sugarland.com. 15337 Southwest Frwy., Sugar Land, TX 77478 - Williams Trace @ Hwy 59 (Next to Conns). Thomas P. Arnold, O.D., Melissa C. Moeller, O.D., and Associates. Therapeutic and Pediatric Optometrists. Elissa R. Wedemeyer O.D., FCOVD, F.A.A.O 281-499-2600 5425 Hwy. 6 #B-100 Missouri City, TX 77459. www. drwedemeyer.com. Therapeutic Optometrist, in house optical with a large selection of frames and contact lenses, medical management of eye infections and diseases.

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

Pediatric Therapy MedCare Pediatric Group, LP 713-773-5100 www.medcarepediatrics.com Occupational, Physical, Speech Therapy at home or at Rehab Center located at 12371 S. Kirkwood, Stafford, TX 77477. We also provide in home nursing services. All services available in Houston and surrounding counties.

Pest Control/Commercial ORKIN - Commercial Services www.orkin.com 713-784-2706 - April Shane-wilton (South Of I-10) 713-952-4500 - Dana Mowe (North Of I-10) Orkin services customers in a wide variety of industries, and we tailor our pest management solutions to fit your facility. Call today for a comprehensive inspection with pest pressure evaluation including quote and to find out about our “Orkin Triple Guarantee” and customized 7-step solution. VISIT OUR WEB SITE AT WWW.ORKIN. COM TO LEARN MORE.

Pharmacies Ed’s Pharmacy - 281-499-4555 Ed Sziy, 3740 Cartwright, Missouri City, TX 77459, Fax: 281-499-7088. Walgreen’s Drug Stores Hwy 6 @ Williams Trace - 281-980-5780 Lexington @ Dulles - 281-499-0231 24Hr Hwy 6 @ FM 1092 - 281-208-5904 24Hr Grand Parkway @ Hwy 59 - 281-633-0299 With more locations throughout Fort Bend to serve you better

Physicians Immunizations & Drug Testing IMU Southwest, The IMUnization Clinic 281-313-7468 www.IMUnizationclinic.org imusouthwest@windstream.net. 3727 Greenbriar Dr. Suite 403, Stafford, TX 77477- Vaccines for children and adults for school, fertility, work, immigration, or travel needs. Daytime, Evening, and Saturday hours and no wait appointments available. Vaccine titers and Drug Testing for individuals or corporations. Certified Drug Testing Center & CDC Designated Yellow Fever Provider. We perform oral HIV testing also. Mobile on-site clinics available for churches and corporations.

Plants, Interior Design Interiorscapes of Houston 281-933-0470 Alan L’ Roy, P.O. Box 218023, Houston, TX 77218, Fax: 281-277-0541, Interior plant maintenance, Serving Sugar Land & Fort Bend County, Specializing with a devotion to a degree beyond the usual.

Plumbing Supplies Morrison Plumbing Supply & Showroom 281-499-3299 10404 Cash Road, Stafford, TX 77477, Designer Quality at Clearance Prices. Your complete source for name brand faucets and fixtures at competitive prices.

Printers / Graphics Blue Jungle Marketing - 281-240-6700 www.bluejunglemarketing.com jmunnell@bluejunglemarketing.com. Jim Munnell, 10700 Corporate Drive, Suite 100, Stafford, Texas 77477, Fax: 281-240-6711, signs, promo products, tradeshow displays, web design, etc. Star Printing - 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com We professionally design and print flyers, postcards, brochures, magazines, newspapers and catalogs in high-quality digital graphics.

Real Estate / Residential Bearden Development • 281-568-4185 budt@beardendevelopment.com. 10460 W. Sam Houston Parkway S., Suite 200, Houston, TX 77099, Commercial office, warehouse and manufacturing facilities for lease or build to suit. Commercial development and investments. Curtice Commercial Real Estate - 281-494-4769 kcurtice@curticecommercial.com. Kolbe M. Curtice, CCIM, CLS, 15999 City Walk Suite 250, Sugar Land Square located at U.S. Highway 59 and State Highway 6, Fax: 281-494-3227, Brokerage, Development, Investment & Tenant Representation, 20 yrs exp. in Fort Bend. Indermuehle & Co. - Commercial Real Estate 281-240-9090 www.icotexas.com lindermuehle@icotexas.com. Larry Indermuehle, 2333 Town Center Drive Suite 300, Sugar Land, TX 77498, Phone 281-240-9090 - Fax: 281-240-9070 - 1800240-9090, Commercial real estate sales, leasing and investments. Jeanne Gregory, CRS, GRI - 281-344-8918 www.jeannegregory.com jeannegregory@earthlink.net. 14905 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, Texas 77478, Fax: 281-242-6754, Re/Max Southwest. Residential real estate sales & corporate relocation. Mimi Kwan, Realtor CRS, GRI, ABR, e-PRO, Broker-Associate 281-208-51100 www.mimikwan.com MimiKwan@Realtor.com. 4500 Highway 6 @ Austin Pkwy, Sugar Land, TX 77478-4488, Office: 281-2655533 ext. 1212 *** Toll Free 877-373-6293 ext. 1212, Direct: 281-208-5110-Fax 281-208-5151. RE/MAX Fine Properties. Each office independently owned/operated. Riverstone Development Co. - 281-499-8700 www.riverstone.com tom@riverstone.com. Tom Wilcox, 4855 Riverstone Blvd, Missouri City, Texas 77459, Fax: 281-499-8704, Luxury waterside living in Fort Bend from $200s to the many millions. Telfair by Newland Communities 281-325-0032 www.telfair.com 1310 Heritage Place, Sugar Land, Texas 77479. Fax 281-325-0051. Telfair by Newland Communities – The Art and Soul of Great Living from the $260’s to Over $1 Million.

“The Power of Three” Team 281-207-5155 www.3realtors.com Denise Hulse, Kathy Richardson & Michele Sergie. RE/ MAX Southwest, 14905 SW Freeway, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Email: info@3realtors.com. Residential Real Estate and Corporate Relocation. Jennifer Weaver, ABR, CRS, GRI 281-207-5037 www.jenniferweaver.com RE/MAX Southwest, 14905 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, Texas 77478. Residential sales and corporate relocation since 1979.

Staffing Service / Temporary Help Strategic Employer Services, LLC Professional Employer Organization (PEO) 281-277-3006 www.strategicemployerservices.com Strategic Employer Services, LLC is a Fort Bend County based PEO providing full service human resources benefits to small businesses, enabling them to compete aggressively with larger organizations to hire and retain productive employees. Our offices are located at 4411 Bluebonnet, Suite 108, Stafford, Texas 77477. (10/07)

Transportation TREKEXPRESS 281-633-RIDE www.trekhouston.org jr@trekhouston.org. Commuter bus service from Fort Bend County to Uptown/ Galleria and Green way Plaza. Managed by TREK and funded by Fort Bend County Commuter Service.

Video Services Star Video Digital Production Services, 281-690-4280 Full-service video taping, editing and special effects for your business. Professional writing to finished commercials, training DVD’s, and corporate videos.

Wash / Laundry / Drop-Off Coin Laundry @ Stafford - 281-261-6191 504–C Murphy Road@Ave. E, Large Commercial, Front load Washing machines; Wash, Dry & Fold same day service. Club welcome, both business or individuals. 7 days, 8 am-10pm

Waste Collection Services Sprint Waste Services Dispatch 281-491-7775 www.sprintwaste.com Sprint Waste provides trash collection services to a wide variety of commercial customers throughout Houston and as far away as El Campo and Victoria. Whether you are a business looking for a permanent waste solution or a general contractor with a temporary need, Sprint Waste has roll-off boxes, front load containers, and garbage compactors to meet your every need. P.O. Box 940820 Houston TX 77094.

Web Site Design & Programming DonDulin.com - 281-238-4719 www.dondulin.com don@dondulin.com, Don Dulin, P.O. Box 1840, Richmond, TX 77406, Fax: 281-239-6193, Complete web development; marketing, database, e-commerce and hosting.

Help people find your business here!

List your business in the Fort Bend/Katy Business Journal’s SERVICE DIRECTORY for only $300 for the whole year. To Advertise Call 281-690-4200 April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

S E R V I C E D I R E C T O R Y

Pete & Shorty’s open first location in Sugar Land area

ete & Shorty’s, Inc., of Clearwater, Florida, announced the opening of a new Pete & Shorty’s restaurant located at 16549 Southwest Freeway in Sugar Land. The new restaurant, Pete & Shorty’s Kitchen & Tap, will feature the bite-sized “Shorty Burgers”, the concept it is known for, as well as live music, billiards, and shuffleboard. This place has a different feeling than most restaurant/bars. You can’t describe it; you have to come see it. Pete & Shorty’s pays homage to the original location in Clarksville, Iowa established in 1934, it offers cold drinks, hot food, and a warm welcome to all who enter. In 1997, the founders of the Hooters Restaurant chain, several of whom are from Iowa, decided to take their favorite Midwest “joint” to Florida. They opened the doors to the first Pete & Shorty’s in Clearwater, Florida in 1997. Taking their own sweet time, in 2009 the second Pete & Shorty’s opened in Pinellas

Park, Florida. This third location in Sugar Land is owned by VeLags, LLC and marks the entry into the Texas market. The company will open additional locations in Katy and Willowbrook later this year. “Nobody yet has created a chain of “little joints” that, when you walk in, look like they’ve been there for a hundred years,” said partner of the Texas location, Dave “Lags” Lageschulte, “People really react to the friendliness of the, and the warm service and the overall value of the food and bar.” With a casual, comfortable atmosphere, this nostalgic restaurant is a welcoming spot for friends to gather for lunch, dinner, drinks and conversation. The food options include comfort food favorites like Country Fried Steak with Sawmill Gravy, Chicken Parmesan and Mom’s Meatloaf as well as signature dishes like Cashew-Crusted Salmon Salad, Waverly Filet Mignon and Shorty’s Skirt Steak. Pete and Shorty’s is also known for its Juicy Lucy’s;

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

two super-sliders infused with cheese and the King Sandwich which is a thinly-breaded, tender pork tenderloin which overwhelms the bun and requires a knife and fork. Pete and Shorty’s will also become an instant hit for crowds looking to have a little fun together. “Our bar has the feel of stepping back in time from the tacky chic décor to the value pricing which will make you want to belly up to the bar and share a story or two” says Lags. We will be known for our World Famous 20 Oz. ice-cold Schooners for just $2.75, and our cocktail prices of $3…$4…$5 Everyday….All Day! Pete & Shorty’s also boasts a great outdoor bar and patio for dining and to accommodate smokers. Hours are from 11am til Midnight Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 11am til 2am and Sundays from 11am til 10pm. So as Pete has been saying since 1934, “come as you are and stay as long as you like.”

FOOD REVIEW: OUTBACK

WHERE TO EAT NOW The following is a list of exceptional restaurants throughout in Fort Bend County & Katy Area. Prices reflect the average cost of a three-course dinner for one person, excluding drinks, tax and tip. $$$$=Very Expensive ($60 & Up) $$$=Expensive ($40-$60) $$=Moderate ($20-$40) $=Inexpensive (Under $20) FB=Full Bar WB=Serves Wine & Beer

FOOD DRINK

Outback Steakhouse is an Australian steakhouse restaurant. Although beef and steak items make up a good portion of the menu, the concept offers a variety of chicken, ribs, seafood, and pasta dishes. The Company’s strategy is to differentiate its restaurants by emphasizing consistently high-quality food and service, generous portions at moderate prices and a casual atmosphere suggestive of the Australian Outback.The restaurant offers a blend of South American cuisine with a touch of Italian. Outback Steakhouse - 15253 Southwest Freeway • Sugar Land, TX (Off Highway 59 & Williams Trace Exit) Parking - parking lot What to Wear - business to casual Reservations - available but not required Seating - bar as well as restaurant Price - $$

AURA Restaurant • Chef/Owner Frédéric Perrier brings over 30 years experience to his newest venture - AURA. In an upscale yet casually comfortable setting, Innovative American Cuisine reigns and is highlighted in the numerous Daily Specials. AURA features only the finest, freshest ingredients. From Lunch Salads & Sandwiches to Dinner with Crabcakes and Filet Au Poivre to Diver Sea Scallops with Boneless Braised Short Rib ‘Surf & Turf’ appetizers and Farm Raised Chilean Sea Bass. No need to go to Houston or into Sugar Land for truly high quality dining experience...you will easily find it at AURA (without ‘Big Restaurant’ prices!) at Township Square - Missouri City. Lunch Mon-Sat 112. Dinner Mon-Thurs 5-9 and Fri-Sat 5-10. Please call for Reservations &/or Catering ~ 3400 FM 1092, 81-403-AURA (2872). $$ • WB

ENTERTAINMENT

GUIDE

Special Section

ining/Hotel & Restaurant

Fort Bend/Katy

uide

TO ADVERTISE CALL 281-690-4201 April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Barry’s Pizza • Barry’s Pizza at the Fountains was opened in 1997 with the idea of creating the best pizza in Fort Bend. Barry’s customers have said that Barry’s has more than fulfilled their goals! From our dough and pizza sauce, made fresh daily, to Barry’s own signature Mozzarella Cheese, we have been thrilling the pizza lovers of Fort Bend for over 8 years. Barry’s is a full service, full menu restaurant going to great lengths to maintain excellent quality and service. • 11303 Fountain Lake Dr. • 281-494-0666. $ • WB Candelari’s Pizzeria • Albert Candelari began making sausage over 50 years ago. As the years have passed the flavor remains the same, which is why Candelari’s is the “King of Sausages”! They take that delicious Italian sausage and put it in pizzas, pastas, and sandwiches. Enjoy appetizers, salads, pastas, sandwiches, pizzas and desserts in there dining room, large patio, or full bar with large screen TV’s. Happy hour is Monday - Thursday 3 to 7pm. This casual dining experience is available at two locations in Fort Bend. Call either location for take-out or delivery. 7425 Hwy 6 S (Just North of Sienna) 832-947-0440 / 6825 S Fry Rd (Fry & 99) 281-395-6746. www.candelaris.com. $ • FB Charlie’s Restaurants and Catering, Poboys and Grill • Two locations in Fort Bend. Cajun home cooked food. The “special” plate is a favorite with a choice of one meat, two sides and a roll. The meat choices range from brisket, sausage, and meat loaf, to baked chicken, turkey/dressing, ham, salisbury steak and spaghetti/meatballs. Home made desserts are a favorite feature. Catering is available for large to small functions, banquets, corporate or organization luncheons/dinners. 4719 Lexington @ Dulles, 281-499-0808 and 1250 Texas Parkway, 281-499-2233. $ Chef for You • Offers take out dinners prepared from scratch by professional chefs. Online ordering; Customized Catering Menus Available; Corporate Catering for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. Homemade Cakes, Cookies, and Brownies; Soups and Salads. New menus offered each week at www. chef4u.net • 9920 Highway 90-A, Suite B-260, Sugar Land • 281-313-CHEF (2433). $ Fernando’s Latin Cuisine • We are pleased to announce the arrival of Fernando’s Latin Cuisine-An exotic culinary adventure! Started by, Fernando Echeverria, the same owner of Los Andes by the Compact Center in Houston-Another wonderful Latin American restaurant. Fernando’s Latin Cuisine is located in the same building where Ruth’s Chris used to be. Featured dishes include Empanadas appetizer, Fileton, (Filet mignon) and Asada Y Camarones, Casually called the surf and turf. 14135 Southwest Freeway, in Sugar Land. 281-4949087. wwww.fernandosrestaurants.com. $$ • FB Hickory Barn BAR-B-Q • The Kiddy Brothers came to Houston with great BBQ on their minds. The first BBQ restaurant opened in 1953. Since then the family owned and operated business has been serving up great BBQ. Although times have changed, our idea of great BBQ hasn’t. Come by

and see us. Catering available. • 11534 Wilcrest @ W. Belfort. 281-530-9382. $ Incredible Pizza Company • All-You-Can-Eat Buffet is Made Fresh, From Scratch, Every Day. Enjoy 30 varieties of Pizza, 3 Styles of Pizza Crust, Meatballs & Spaghetti, Piping Hot Baked Potatoes with All the Toppings, Soups, Fresh Pasta with a Choice of Sauces, a Salad Bar Featuring Over 80 Items Including 9 Different Homemade Salad Dressings, and Desserts. Pies, Cobblers, Bread Pudding, Cinnamon Rolls, Ice Cream, Cookies & Much More for only $6.99 per person. Corporate Events, Team Building, Lock-ins, Birthday Parties, and Every Day Fun! In addition to the Incredible Food, the 20,000 Square Feet of Play Space is a Blast for Kids and Kids at Heart. www. ipcsugarland.com Open Sunday-Thursday 11am9pm, Friday & Saturday 11am-10pm, 3412 Highway 6 South @ Williams Trace, 281-313-0631. $ J & L Café • Homestyle Cookin’ like Grandma used to make! Joy Smith and Paul Jordan are back, and they’re cooking up a delightful assortment of homemade dishes to satisfy the heartiest of appetites. Since they opened their new restaurant, they’ve been serving up family recipes handed down for 3 generations. Stop by J & L Café and enjoy Chicken and Dumplings, Smothered Oxtails, Meatloaf, Ribs, Fried Catfish, Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes, Okra, and Cornbread Dressing, to name just a few menu items and daily specials. The assortment of Desserts includes Peach Cobbler, Cheesecake and Banana Pudding, all guaranteed to make your taste buds smile! Joy Smith, co-proprietor, worked as Personal Chef to Former Houston Mayor Lee Brown for many years. Whole Cornish Hens are available on Sundays. Breakfast served TuesdaySaturday 6-9am, Open for Lunch and Dinner Tuesday-Sunday, Closed Mondays. 1110 FM 2234 on the border of Stafford & Missouri City. 281-499-9895. $ Karl’s At The Riverbend • Romantic Dining in the Country, across the creek from a horse farm. Swiss Chef Karl Camenzind’s menu features Angus steaks, Prime Rib, Wienerschnitzel, Trout Almondine and other fresh fish, Rack of Lamb, Steak and other wild game, Atkins specials, a budget weeknight menu offered along with the regular menu, plus a wonderful Sunday Brunch Buffet. Company Luncheons and Rehearsal Dinners invited. Open Tues-Sat for Dinner and Sunday Brunch 5011 FM 723 Richmond 281-238-9300 www.karlsrb.com Read our reviews at www.b4-ueat.com. $$ • FB Las Haciendas Mexican Bar & Grill • Santos Escobar and his brother Ascension Escobar serve up dozens of heaping traditional gourmet Mexican plates. Lunch Specials run weekdays from 11am - 3pm. Great margaritas, fajitas and much more. Catering available as well as a party room for private parties. • 12821 Southwest Freeway. 281-2403060. $ • FB Lupitas Mexican Restaurant • Jaime and Lupe Garcia have lived in Fort Bend for 36 years.

Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

Twenty-three of those years have been spent in the restaurant business. If you want authentic Mexican food made from only the freshest ingredients and at a reasonable price, go to Lupitas Mexican Restaurant formerly Pico De Gallo Mexican Restaurant. The Garcias continually concentrate on customer satisfaction. That includes the quality and freshness of their food as well as the family atmosphere of their restaurant. Dine-In, Take-out, and Catering available. 3121 Highway 6, Sugar Land • Call 281-265-6556. $ • WB Mangola’s Fine Italian Restaurant• Serving fine Italian food to Southwest Houston and Fort Bend Country for more than 20 years. Conveniently located at 11786 S. Wilcrest @ Highway 59 S. Open for Lunch and Dinner 7 Days a week. Check out our website www.mangolasrestaurant.com. Call 281498-6790 for reservations or to schedule your special event. Mantra Fine Indian Cuisine • Discover India with exotic spices and aromatic flavors that will awaken your taste buds and lift you off your feet, we will make you feel like royalty. Mantra Fine Indian Cuisine offers Lunch Buffet and To-Go lunch options, that’s in your budget and leave you to come back for more. Mantra caters to all from spicy hot to mild flavors. We prepare our meals fresh and offer a wide selection of healthy choices. We have full menu and full bar and you can enjoy the evening out on our patio with your family or friends. Mantra also offers special catering promotions for parties and formal functions or any event any size, host in our restaurant or choosing of your choice. Hours of Operation: Monday through Thursday, Friday to Sunday, Lunch: 11a.m. to 2:30p.m. Lunch: 11a.m. to 2:30p.m. Dinner: 5:30pm to 10p.m. Dinner: 5:30pm to 11p.m.Come visit us at 15295 Southwest Freeway off of Williams Trace exit. For more information, contact us at 281325-0071 or visit www.mantraofsugarland.com. $$ • FB Old Hickory Inn Barbecue • More than 40 years in business in the Houston and Fort Bend area, Old Hickory Inn Barbecue is famous for their Old Fashion Hickory Smoked Barbecue and numerous Homemade Side Dishes, made fresh daily. They are available to cater your next event, for up to 3000 guests. In addition to great Barbecue, they make an awesome Gyro (Greek wrap featuring beef & lamb), and feature fruit cobbler, cream pies, rice pudding and cheesecake for dessert A casual dining experience in 3 convenient locations, with a drive-through window at the Highway 6 location. Open 7 days a week, Sunday-Thursday from 11am-9pm, and Friday & Saturday 11am-9:30pm. 3334 F.M. 1092 @ Hwy 6 Missouri City 281-499-8904 / 8000 Hwy 6 @ Beechnut 281-983-5020 / 5427 S. Braeswood @ Chimney Rock 713-723-8908. $ • WB Outback Steakhouse • Inspired by Australia’s spirit of adventure, Outback Steakhouse has been an innovator in the culinary world by creating big,

bold flavors using only the freshest ingredients. Voted #1 Best Steak in the 2009 Zagat Survey of National Full-Service Restaurant chains, Outback’s mission is to provide high quality fresh dishes at affordable prices. Explore Outback’s new menu with 15 meals under $15 including new choices, classic favorites and down under prices starting at $9.95. Our favorites include the Bloomin’ Onion®, Outback Special Sirloin with Grilled Shrimp on the Barbie, Honey Dijon Chicken with Sweet Potato Fries and much more! The local Proprietor is Anthony Antonidis. Open Mon.- Thur. 4-10 pm, Fri. 4-11 pm, Sat. 3-11 pm, Sun 11 am-9:30 pm. Located at 15253 Southwest Freeway, (Off Highway 59 and Williams Trace Exit) in Sugar Land, Texas. 281-980-4329. $ FB Panda Garden • Panda Garden Restaurant, the three times winner for Best Oriental Restaurant in Fort Bend County, located at 3563 Highway 6 in Kroger Center, provides a warm, casual environment to best service all diners. The goal of our restaurant is to offer 100% satisfactory to the customers with variety selection of popular Hunan Cuisine. “We offer fresh, made from scratch meals that is unforgettably delicious!” Manager Kenny adds. The restaurant offers accommodations for small group meetings and wonderful party tray for catering to the near by businesses and schools. Panda Garden is open 7 days a week on Mon. – Sat.: 11a.m. – 10 p.m. and Sun. 11a.m. – 9:30p.m. Delivery is available everyday with a min. of $15.00 purchase. A lunch special is offered daily as well as the full regular menu offerings. 3563 Hwy 6 @ Williams Trace, 281-265-0303. $ • WB Pappa La Rosa Flying Pizza and Restaurant • Pappa La Rosa Flying Pizza and Restaurant is a warm and inviting family owned and operated restaurant where pizza, pasta and subs are available on the menu, with daily specials. Catering, a private party room and birthday packages are also available. Dine in or take out. Open for lunch and dinner Tuesday – Sunday. • 16227 Lexington Boulevard, Sugar Land • Call 281-313-3500. $ • WB Post Oak Grill Restaurant & Bar • The Rios Family invites you to come and

experience the same quality, ambiance and service that you have at the original Post Oak Gill. Join us for a wonderful culinary adventure featuring fine centercut steaks, chops, fresh seafood, soups, sandwiches, salads, and outstanding wine selection. Open lunch & dinner - Monday-Thursday 11:00-9:00pm, Friday & Saturday 11:00-10:00pm. Happy Hour 3:00-6:00pm. 4524 Highway 6, Sugar Land • Call 281-491-2901.www.postoakgrillsugarland.com $$ • FB Sandy McGee’s Restaurant & Catering • The “BEST” soups, gourmet sandwiches and salads in TEXAS. Casual Dining in Historic Downtown Richmond. Sandy McGee’s has a sterling reputation for “FRESH”. Mon.-Fri. 10am-9pm and Sat.-Sun. 10am-3pm. 314 Morton St., Richmond. 281-3449393. $ Tacone Flavor Grill • Fresh. Fun. Handmade. Unique Environment. Tacone is a Casual Quick Serve Restaurant with gourmet flavor at not so gourmet prices. Rated Best Gourmet Wrap Restaurant by Restaurant and Resorts. This franchise based company from Los Angeles, CA has unique gourmet wraps, hot pannini sandwiches, salads, and smoothies. There is a BBQ Chicken Quesadillas waiting for you at Tacone. Make your other senses jealous! Sugar Land Town Square, 2228 Texas Drive, Sugar Land, 77479; 281-313-2300, fax: 281313-2305. www.tacone.com. $ Tornado Burger • Home of the famous Spicy Burger. Find out why Houston’s largest newspaper raves about their burgers! Read the review by the Houston Chronicle at: http://blogs.chron.com/cookstour/archives/ 2007/09/burgerology.html. They make their burgers with fresh-ground chuck, and even their buns are handmade! The French fries are fresh Idaho potatoes cut right in front of you and fried to order! They compete with the multinationals with fresh food at low prices and very fast service. Their Philly Cheesesteaks are as good as Pat’s if not better! Open Mon. - Sat. 11am-10pm, Sun. 11am-9pm. Dine-In or Drive-Thru. 505 Murphy Rd (FM 1092) just south of Hwy 90 in Stafford, 281-403-FAST (3278). $

Sugar Land 15253 S.W. Freeway 281-980-4329 (Off Hwy 59, Williams Trace Exit) Proprietor: Anthony Antonidis

April 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

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Fort Bend Business Journal • April 2010

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Magazine

Honors the

Joyous, Extraordinary Women Enriching Lives

Luncheon & Style Show Thursday, September Twenty Three, Two Thousand and Ten • 11:30 am - 1:30 pm Safari Texas Ranch u 11627 FM 1464 u Richmond, Texas

MISTRESS OF CEREMONIES Minerva Pérez LATINA VOICES Co-Host, Executive Producer

BENEFITING

Sponsorship Opportunities $7,500 – Diamond Sponsor

As the Presenting Diamond Sponsor, you will receive two complimentary tables of ten at the Luncheon along with a full page ad on the back cover of the Jewels event program that will also run as a full page ad in the September 2010 issue of Fort Bend Focus Magazine! Your name and/or logo will appear on all event advertising and correspondence including press releases and invitations and you will receive on-site recognition at the event. You will be invited to participate in the check presentation and receive 20 complimentary tickets to the Champagne Reception prior to the Luncheon.

$5,000 – Emerald Sponsor

You will receive one complimentary table of ten at the Luncheon along with a full page ad on the inside front cover of the Jewels event program that will also run as a full page ad in the September 2010 issue of Fort Bend Focus Magazine! Your name and/or logo will appear on all event advertising and you will receive on-site recognition at the event. You will receive 10 complimentary tickets to the Champagne Reception prior to the Luncheon.

$2,500 – Ruby Sponsor

You will receive one complimentary table of ten at the Luncheon along with a full page ad in the Jewels event program that will also run as a full page ad in the September 2010 issue of Fort Bend Focus Magazine! You will receive on-site recognition at the event and 10 complimentary tickets to the Champagne Reception prior to the Luncheon.

$1,500 – Corporate Gem

You will receive one complimentary table of ten at the Luncheon along with a 1/2 page ad in the Jewels event program. You will receive on-site recognition at the event and 10 complimentary tickets to the Champagne Reception prior to the Luncheon.

$1,000 - Sapphire Sponsor

You will receive 6 tickets to the Luncheon along with a 1/2 page ad in the Jewels event program. You will receive on-site recognition at the event.

Individual Tickets - $65 Tickets & Sponsorship opportunities: 281-690-4242 or www.FortBendFocus.com

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