August 2013 - The Business Lifestyle Magazine Digital Edition

Volume 31 • No. 8

THE BUSINESS LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

August 2013

Resilience, Collaboration, Spirituality and Leadership In Loving Memory Of My Husband, S.E. “Gene” Cobbin pg 26 4.95

$

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 600 HOUSTON, TEXAS

Texas Direct Auto and Houston Humane Society Announces Goal of Finding Homes for 1,000 Animals Through ASPCA $100K Challenge The organization hopes to beat its own record of adopting out the animals it shelters with help from local partner

T

his summer, the Houston Humane Society, with support from Texas Direct Auto, has the goal of adopting out 1,000 of its animals as part of the ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K Challenge, a national campaign designed to save as many animals’ lives as possible.

As one of 50 shelters selected from across the country to participate in the $100K Challenge, the Houston Humane Society is competing to break its own record of saving animals’ lives in June, July and August. The Challenge offers a $100,000 grand prize, which could assist the Houston Humane Society in sheltering even more of the City’s animals and in finding them forever homes.

The Houston Humane Society is ecstatic to have found a partner in Texas Direct Auto, the “World’s Largest Independent Dealership,” for the Challenge. In addition to selling cars and offering exceptional financing, the dealership acts as an advocate for animals and recently opened the Texas Direct Auto Dog Park. Texas Direct Auto’s Director of Business Development Jessica DeMarr is thrilled to support the Houston Humane Society in the Challenge by donating water, promotional products and various items needed during the competition.

“This is a great opportunity for both Texas Direct Auto and the Houston Humane Society to find homes for the wonderful pets located at the shelter,” DeMarr said. “I’m eager to work with the Houston Humane Society this

summer and get the community just as excited as we are to help reach the goal of adopting 1,000 animals into loving homes.”

To help achieve its goal of adopting out 1,000 animals this summer, the Houston Humane Society is planning multiple summer events, including movie nights, dog washes, animal adoption speed “dating” and much more.

Furthermore, the organization hopes that Houstonians and other surrounding communities will participate in the Challenge not only by adopting but also by spreading the word and encouraging others to visit the facility to meet the adoptables. Sherry Ferguson, Executive Director of the Houston Humane Society, believes these initiatives are imperative for the organization to reach its goal.

“I’m thrilled the Houston Humane Society is involved in the ASPCA $100K Challenge,” Ferguson said. “Our goal is and always has been to provide the highest quality of care and find homes for the animals we shelter. The Challenge will help bring awareness to this and through our summer events, the community will be able to get involved, have fun and find forever friends!”

For questions regarding the $100K Challenge and the events surrounding the summer campaign, the organization’s partnership with Texas Direct Auto or more information about the Houston Humane Society, please visit the organization’s website at www.houstonhumane.org.

Photos by E&E Animals Professional Pet Photography

SeLL US YOUR CAR!

There’s an easier way to sell your car.

WE PAY MORE. WE PAY TODAY. Fast. Easy. Fun. Yes! It’s true.

12053 SW Freeway, Stafford Texas 77477 • 281-499-8200

Texas DIRECT AUTO.com

Editor’s Preview

by Sharon Wallingford

Job centers take top priority while quality of living remains high Sharon Wallingford

Barbara J. Carlson

scan with you smart phone to launch website

I

f there’s an imbalance in jobs and rooftops in Fort Bend County, it won’t exist for long. Although Fort Bend is still considered a neighborhood community since 80% of our residents work elsewhere, county leaders are eyeing locations for new job centers, educational training solutions, and ways to lift even more the quality of living being enjoyed by our 607,000 residents. Many residents live in the Top Ten master planned communities in America, developed here, which are showing increased sales of 25 percent. As growth continues, our Realtors stay busy.

This month our cover features nationallyacclaimed Dr. Jacqueline Horton-Cobbin, CEO, at Cobbin & Associates, an independent consulting company for profit and non-profit entities around the country. Be sure to read how she conveys her deepest passions and wealth of experiences to promote ways that improve our schools.

You won’t want to miss a page of our Women in Business section. You will gain a glimpse of some of Fort Bend County’s more dynamic and successful women. We pay tribute to emeritus publisher Bev Carter, whose life touched so many in this county.

This year we celebrate the 25th anniversary of

the George Ranch Historical Park. Special events, including a golf tourney September 9 and Texian Market Days, are planned for the fall.

As summer concludes, Fort Bend shrimpers have begun throwing their nets. The harvest season is also underway for milo, cotton and soybeans. And don’t forget we’re in Hurricane season. To assist us, Servpro of West Fort Bend County is presenting an Emergency Disaster Preparedness Seminar from 8 am-Noon on Tuesday, August 13 at the Rosenberg Civic Center. The event is free and open to the public.

Sign up now for the Hearts & Hammers Golf Classic set for September 16 benefiting the Fort Bend CORPS. This year the honoree is Fort Bend County Engineer Richard Stolleis. Call 281.617.7416 for more info. This is an event that benefits the entire county.

Here’s a salute to Dr. Stanley Thompson, 95, who retired July 3 after 61+ years of dedication to his office practice and the Fort Bend County community. Thompson served in numerous state positions and was actively involved on non-profit and medical boards.

Keep the cash register ringing.

Sharon K. Wallingford

The Editorial Advisory Board

2

Kolbe Curtice CCIM, CLS Managing Director – Colliers International | Fort Bend

Becky Munnell President and CEO Blue Jungle Marketing

Jacqueline Baly President and CEO Baly Projects, LLC

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

Contact:

Dee Koch Grant Officer The George Foundation

Tim Stubenrouch President First Community Bank

Sharon K. Wallingford Sharon@FortBendBusinessJournal.com 281.690.4200 - Office

August 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

John Whitmore Whitmore Company

Barbara J. Carlson Barbara@FortBendBusinessJournal.com 281.690.4204 - Direct

FORT BEND

Realtor, GRI, CBR

Hal Elrod Top Producer

281.798.3853

Denise & Greg Houser Mike Harness & Sherry Miles

Anita Milne

Nancy Benevides

713.203.9975

Realtor, CRS, GRI, CDPE

713.725.7783

281.216.3217

Keller Williams Realty

RE/MAX Southwest

RE/MAX Southwest

RE/MAX Southwest

281.782.2111

Sugar Land’s Top Producer 2012

Jacki Pauley

Denise Hulse

281.250.7513

281.413.9732

Rick Wells

Cathy Simeone

Hank Mann Mary & Kelly

The Stewart Team

Realtor, GRI, SRES, CDPE, PMN

RE/MAX Fine Properties

713.582.1654

Top Producers RE/MAX Southwest

Realtor • 30 + Years

Beard Realty Group

281.414.8400

281.980.6849

Realtor RE/MAX Fine Properties

Selling Ft. Bend Finest Homes Coldwell Banker United

Jeanne Gregory

Top Producer

RE/MAX Fine Properties

Arlene Rolsen

Terri Kurkjian

Real Estate All-Stars The House’r Team

Grand Parkway Realty

832.274.7663

Sherry 832.978.5936 Prime Properties Mike 281.236.9726

Realtor

Realm Realty Professionals

713.628.1990

20 yrs of Real Estate Experience

RE/MAX Southwest

713.854.0923

PAGE 3

C

NTENTS COVER STORY

Resilience, Collaboration, Spirituality and Leadership In Loving Memory Of My Husband, S.E. “Gene” Cobbin

Volume 31 • Number 8 • August 2013 For subscriptions send check for $25 to Fort Bend Business Journal 4655 Techniplex Dr., Suite 300 Stafford, Texas 77477 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com Single copy $4.95

PUBLISHER EMERITUS Beverly Carter PUBLISHER

pg.

26

Michael Fredrickson ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Barbara Carlson ACCOUNTING Lisa Long

Special Features

5 Fort Bend Cosmetic Dentistry................................... pg 43 Fort Bend / Katy Women in Business........................... pg

EDITOR Sharon Wallingford MARKETING CONSULTANT Diane Strehl

MONTHLY COLUMNS

ART DIRECTOR Joey Belleza

Elsa Maxey

GRAPHIC DESIGNER / WEB Jan Carlo Arcillas

Star Digital Studios

Discusses Imprint sets future direction of Star Video...............................38

Alan Sandersen Tax Smart

Discusses Be prepared for the health care act’s “play or pay” provision...........................................................41

DEPARTMENTS Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter............. 29-36 Service Directory.......................................................... 44-46

ON THE COVER Dr. Jacqueline Horton Cobbin Cobbin & Associates, an independent consulting company for profit and non-profit

Meet & Eat - Food, Drink & Entertainment Guide.................................................... 47-48 ©2013 Fort Bend Business Journal Magazine No material from this publication be copied or in any way reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

4

August 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS

In Memory of Fort Bend County's Journalism Icon

Beverly Karen Carter 1941-2013

M

averick, trailblazer, publisher, writer, editor, teacher, mother, grandmother and friend all describe a Texas icon, a journalistic force for to be reckoned with for the past 35 years. Whether you knew her as Bev, Beverly, B.K., Mom, BB or simply the author of Bev’s Burner, Beverly Karen Carter helped put Fort Bend County on the map and in the process, left an indelible mark on the Fort Bend community.

Bev Carter, owner and publisher of The Fort Bend Star Newspaper, passed away on Saturday, July 6th after a lengthy battle with breast cancer. Bev won numerous state and national awards for her work, and served as the publisher for The Fort Bend Star, the newspaper she built with her children and a few trusted friends. At the helm of the Star, she served as the people’s voice for Fort Bend’s largest circulated newspaper for 35 years and kept local politicians in check with her weekly column affectionately known as Bev’s Burner.

Many elected officials felt the heat from Bev’s column that consistently held politicians and government services accountable to the people.

Bev founded The Fort Bend Star in 1978, a Fort Bend institution, and since that time, county residents have consistently been able to obtain in-depth reporting from the straight shooting Carter, along with her unique take on politics, policy, community, religion and virtually any other subject that intrigued her. Known for her strong sense of public integrity, Bev and her “Star” reporters pounded the pavement in Fort Bend to bring their readers insightful and concise information about their community. News without spin was the norm from Carter, and her investigative reporting brought much notoriety to the small, community newspaper that grew into a staple of the Fort Bend community. Bev was asked to share her views with the nation when she was interviewed on the television shows 48 Hours and Nightline regarding happenings in Fort Bend. Her latest interview was conducted by Discovery

Beverly Karen Carter ID’s Behind Mansion Walls and is scheduled to air this year.

Beverly Karen Carter was born on April 9, 1941. She was the daughter of J.C. Carter and Beatrice Compton Carter of Ballinger, Texas and older sister to Vance. She was raised in the West Texas town of Ballinger, which forever remained in her heart; she often referred to herself as a “West Texas Broad.” Bev left Ballinger to study at Texas Tech University in Lubbock. After college, she taught school briefly in Lubbock before moving to the Houston area where she had a ten-year teaching career at Alief ISD. While at Alief-Hastings and then, Elsik High School, Bev taught English, sponsored the school newspaper, drama club and bowling team while raising her two children Sherry Carter and Michael Fredrickson.

In 1978, Bev arrived in Fort Bend County with a dream, determination and the tenacity to do what she loved. She was feisty, determined and unflappable in her quest to give the community a voice in their government. She started the newspaper by pounding the streets, council chambers, government offices and beer joints of Fort Bend to bring her readers some insight into their community through her fledgling newspaper. As the community grew, The Fort Bend Star newspaper grew, and in 1982, she started the Fort Bend Business Journal.

In the early 1990s, Bev started the Fort Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H August 2013

Bend Community TV cable cast showcasing local news including city council, county and public meetings. The cable channel, and subsequent Star Digital Studios, was managed

by Bev’s daughter, Sherry Carter.

Bev Carter was a woman with a strong sense of public integrity. She believed those elected to serve the people were just that: servants of the people and the public trust. On more than one occasion, her personal safety was threatened, and frequently, when she printed something that angered some politician, her reputation was impugned. Bev never wavered from telling it like she saw it and exposing what she believed to be a violation of the public trust. Love her or loathe her, Beverly Karen Cater was a maverick who blazed a trail through the rough and tumble days of the Fort Bend County that eventually morphed into the gentile, planned communities of today.

Beverly was preceded in death by her parents J.C. and Beatrice Compton Carter, her brother Vance Carter and her daughter Sherry Carter. She leaves behind her son Michael Fredrickson, wife Lisa, and her beloved grandchildren, Kathryn, Carter and Jack. Bev also leaves behind her business empire, her dedicated staff, cousins, various in-laws, outlaws and a host of friends. Bev Carter was a Texas icon, a woman with courage and guts who had the gall to tell it all.

A memorial service for Carter was held on Saturday, July 20, 2013 at 10:30 am at the Stafford Civic Center located at 1415 Constitution in Stafford, Texas, 77477. Friends, colleagues and family who prefer to honor Beverly’s memory in lieu of flowers may contribute to the Beverly Carter Scholarship. Contributions will fund the Beverly Carter Scholarship Fund in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Texas State University.

Donations should be payable to Texas State University, Attn: Donor Services, Beverly Carter Scholarship JCK-480, 601 University Drive, San Marcos, Texas 78666 or call 512245-3022.

5

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT FOR LONE STAR

F

or over 30 years, Lone Star Flags & Flagpoles, Inc. has been signaling success for Fortune 500 companies, professional sports teams, churches, hospitals, cities, schools and universities around the world.

Lone Star Flags & Flagpoles, Inc., a woman-owned business, was founded in 1983 by Pam (Ludlam) Wight. In 2000 PamWight sold Lone Star to ABC Flag, a company based in Fort Worth. During the 12-year span ABC Flag owned Lone Star, Pam Wight continued to manage all Lone Star operations as President/ General Manager. In April of 2013, Pam Wight and her husband, Jim Wight acquired full ownership of Lone Star with Pam continuing to manage all Lone Star operations.

Pam Wight has been selling flags, banners, flagpoles and accessories online, through direct marketing and from Lone Star’s store location in Stafford. We are a full-service flag company, specializing in installation and servicing flags, flagpoles, street banner brackets and custom banners. We can even install your smaller flagpoles and flags for your home. “No job is too big or small for Lone Star Flags & Flagpoles, Inc.” Pam Wight says.

“We attribute our continued success and longevity to a simple approach: Customer Service, Quality Products that are made in the USA and Competitive Pricing.

People are more cognizant of products made in the U.S., and they are excited to buy an American product, keeping jobs here that are so needed. We can help you design your next custom flag or banner project or give you suggestions with the engineering of your flagpoles and/ or banner brackets. You will be pleased with the service and friendly approach on all of your flag and banner needs. We understand that you are the customer and we are here to serve you.”, Pam Wight further explains.

You don’t have to travel far to see

6

Jim and Pam Ludlam-Wight full ownership, managing and operation of Lone Star Flags & Flagpoles, Inc.

handmade products created by Lone Star Flags & Flagpoles, Inc. Just look up!

Chances are those flags and banners are attracting attention around Fort Bend County.

Lone Star Flags & Flagpoles, Inc.’s credentials are quite impressive, expanding across Fort Bend County, Harris County and globally, ranging from Fort Bend ISD, Constellation Field, the Cities of Stafford, Sugar Land, Richmond and Houston, Texas Medical Center, Houston Downtown Management District, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the Major League Baseball and National Basketball Association All-Star Games, and customers located In foreign countries including Mexico and Nigeria. Not only was Lone Star Flags & Flagpoles, Inc. the sole flag vendor for the 1992 Republican National Convention and the National Football League with the 2004 Super Bowl in Houston, but August 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

also for the 2006 and 2013 NBA All-Star Games. “What an honor to represent our country during these significant events that were held in Houston,” says Pam Wight.

One of the memorable and challenging special orders filled for the Houston Downtown Management District was the creation of a red ribbon banner and bow that stretched across the entire length of a downtown building during the Christmas season. Even with high winds, Lone Star’s banner never came loose. Lone Star Flags & Flagpoles, Inc. has been entrusted to create custom banners as far away as Disney in Europe.

“No job is too far or too difficult for us,” says PamWight.

Hopefully Lone Star will be the provider to the National Football League for the 2017 Super Bowl in Houston.

The concept of using flags and banners to market a product or broadcast

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS

FLAGS & FLAGPOLES, INC. IN STAFFORD

Lone Star Flags & Flagpoles, Inc.’s operation team.

Mario Mejorado, of Lone Star Flag & Flagpoles, Inc.’s professional installer.

a message has been around for thousands of years. Lone Star Flags and Flagpoles, Inc.’s eye catching designs, commitment to quality craftsmanship and dedication to customer service have taken the ancient form of advertising to new heights. Improved technology and highergrade materials are helping the company’s

products endure harsh weather for longer periods of time.

“During these challenging economic times, this is a less expensive but very effective outlet of advertising. Even some of our bigger customers are watching their dollars but we’re picking up new business from people who have done billboards or radio and TV and don’t have the budget right now for that but still need to get their name out there,” Pam Wight explained.

“We’re really blessed to be in a community that has so much going for it when so many cities in other parts of the country are suffering economically,” Pam Wight commented. “We’re lucky to have Skeeters’ home in Sugar Land, the Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo, and a strong Fort Bend County business community,” Pam Wight continued.

“When Lone Star started manufacturing, about 80 percent of its business was making custom, American and Texas flags, still the top-selling flags,” Pam Wight explained. “Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Election Day and Veterans Day are still the peak flag-flying times, and when school starts in the fall, sports boost our sales with spirit flags and pennants leading the way,” Pam Wight explained.

The company not only caters to businesses across Fort Bend County but also works closely with the general public.

After Sept. 11, 2001, “We had people lined up at our door on Sept.

12,” Pam Wight recalled. “We sold our entire stock of American flags in a few hours and had a lengthy waiting list.

There was a renewal of patriotism for our country, as people became more aware of our business. This is what had previously happened when we were at war in the Persian Gulf so we were already prepared,” Pam Wight explained.

“From creation to installation,” Pam Wight continued, “the company will produce any size custom flag or banner

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H August 2013

for any occasion, large or small, and for any business needing to spread the word.”

Not only is Lone Star Flags & Flagpoles, Inc. a full-service banner and flag company ready to tackle any job near and far but they are proud that they are a Fort Bend County, Texasbased company. Lone Star believes in keeping jobs here and standing behind their products. Lone Star’s customers appreciate that it has stayed a US-based company and that all of its employees work here in Fort Bend County. “ “A loyal patriotic philosophy,” one may ask? “Yes, we are deeply patriotic and offer a passionate commitment to serving this great community,” Pam Wight warmly confirmed.

Lone Star Flags & Flagpoles, Inc. 13110 Mula Ct., Suite A Stafford, Texas 77477 281-495-2900

www.lonestarflags.net

7

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Through the twists and turns of life, TEAMWORK is key

T

he word that comes to her mind when the stunning and poised Juliana Ewer is asked to think about her family-owned business is “Teamwork.” Juliana explains, “I believe this word and its meaning defines the success of business, our involvement in our community and the strength of our marriage.”

The success of a team is determined by how well people work together for a common goal while using their individual strengths to better the group as a whole.

Legacy Ford is truly a Team and a family that strives to serve the customer and the community. Ron and Juliana firmly believe that it is their job to keep their business running and growing. Juliana expounds further, “The success of our business is not only for our family, but to have the ability to provide secure careers for our employees, growth of the business for the future, and the ability and freedom to invest and give back to non-profit organizations in our community.”

Ron’s dream of creating such a place has come to fruition through Legacy Ford.

Ron and Juliana discussed a shared dream of owning a Ford dealership 19 years ago—way back when Ron and Juliana were engaged.

Yet, each step toward that dream has been woven with sacrifices and hardships and taken in prayer and faith that what the Ewers were doing would accomplish a task that would bring them closer to their goal.

Juliana stresses the importance that women understand that they are a crucial part of a team, whether they are directly involved in their family’s business or working behind the scenes. Juliana explains, “Many times, spouses allow the business to grow and succeed by managing the most important side of the team—the home and their family. Young couples starting out should realize that most successful business owners start as something else. Most people are not successful overnight and success rarely comes without hard work and taking risks.”

8

Ron & Juliana Ewer

The Ewers’ dream required a TEAM to reach their goals. All dreams require risks and investments of your time and treasure.

Calculating the risks and what Ron and Juliana were willing to sacrifice over the years was always a scary thought. Many times the journey was far from what they ever thought they could possibly survive.

When Juliana and Ron were first married, Juliana worked in the Insurance Replacement division of the rental car business. One of her favorite aspects of her job was planning the annual community golf tournament to raise funds for a local children’s charity.

Juliana’s career as a regional manager for Premier Car Rental came to an abrupt end with her first pregnancy with her son Brandon that forced her to be bedridden for eight long months. Juliana suffered from hyperemesis, which has recently been made famous by Kate Middleton’s hospitalization.

Even worse, Juliana’s allergy to the pregnancy hormone made her throw up constantly, which in turn caused her to suffer from severe weight loss and many other awful side effects.

It was during this time while bedridden that Ron began a website business—hardly August 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

anyone used the Internet in 1996—that created websites for local Ford dealers in the Dallas and Houston area. Juliana made sales calls between her nausea spells. Very quickly the website business became a profitable business that allowed Juliana’s income to be replaced. While Ron provided the “know how,” Juliana did the marketing and selling for their business. “We were a great team!”

Nine months after Brandon was born, Juliana became pregnant with their second son, Cameron. Again, Juliana was bedridden, and opportunity was knocking for Ron at a very inopportune time. The opportunity came with a price. Ron would be in Houston while the family lived in Dallas. Unable to move during a second difficult pregnancy, the Ewers made the tough decision that Ron would reside in Houston during the week and come home to Dallas on the weekends.

“We would not have been able to do this without Team Mom & Dad,” with Juliana’s parents moving in next door.

This was a difficult time, and at moments Juliana, now looking back, is not sure how they did it. “God took care of us when we couldn’t take care of ourselves. I truly believe any good team has a captain...

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS and God is our captain,” Juliana explained.

While Juliana was pregnant with their second son, Cameron, the Ewers put their house on the market so that Ron could take the Finance Director position in order to increase his knowledge of the car business.

Only two days after giving birth to Cameron, the Ewers moved to Houston, making the transition from family and familiarity to taking an enormous risk with the hope that their sacrifice would pay off.

“I can tell you that I have never felt more conflicted, alone and truly doubtful about a decision in my life,” Juliana remembers.

Only 12 short hours after the moving van unloaded the last box and placed it on their living room floor, Ron walked out the front door and into a new job to begin working 15hour days trying to lead a new team. To form a new dealership, it would require leadership.

Ron needed to be the first one in and the last one to leave every night.

“Facing a new life in a new place with two children under the age of two was discouraging, but trusting in this decision would be for the betterment of our future and our family,” Juliana stated.

It was only a short 13 months that the next promotion brought the Ewers back to Dallas. Breathing a sigh of relief in hopes that the Ewers were finally settled, opportunity knocked once again with Ron being offered the General Manager position at one of the largest Ford dealerships in the country.

Literally after unpacking the last box, packing had to begin again for the move back to Houston.

The next five years while Ron worked intensely long hours, Juliana became very involved in the community and served as the Vice-President, President and Past President for their neighborhood Women’s group, planning fundraisers and luncheons that benefited a local children’s charity and showcasing their home on the Christmas Tour of Homes benefiting that charity.

Fundraising for the Ewers’ children’s private school was Juliana’s forte in helping fund the unfinished school building.

By 2005, Ron had made a name for himself in the car business and Ford approved Ron as a prospective new dealer. Ford wanted Ron to buy a failing dealership in Edina, Minnesota at the same time that Juliana’s mother was diagnosed with advanced stage breast cancer. Juliana’s mother had been not only her best friend in her life but her rock

during these difficult years.

Juliana dropped everything and went to Dallas to be with her mother, her mentor and best friend, during two surgeries and the start of chemotherapy.

The Ewers were faced with the decision if they should move back to Ron’s home state of Minnesota or invest in a local dealership in the Rosenberg area that was quietly for sale.

Ron flew to Minnesota to walk the dealership there, and asked Juliana to think of a name for the family’s new business. Moments like this in our lives become monumental memories when we are sensitive to what’s around us. Turning down Legacy Drive in Dallas, as Juliana had done hundreds of times before, while thinking of the new risks, Juliana’s mother facing a life-threatening disease, hard choices and what FAMILY is all about weighed heavily on Juliana’s mind.

All that we leave in life is our legacy. How we do things, how we act or conduct our lives is our legacy. It was at that moment that Juliana called Ron and they settled on now the dealership’s famous name in Rosenberg— Legacy Ford. Even though the dealership in Edina was Ford’s preference for the Ewers to take over, Ron trusted that it was God’s plan that they stay in Texas close to Juliana’s mother. Life changed for the Ewers with the purchase of Dub Miller Ford, a family-owned business for 34 years, and the creation of their own “Legacy.”

Juliana beams as she explains, “I feel blessed to be in Fort Bend County. I’m a sixth generation Texan who is so happy to call Texas home. Even though the move here was very hard on our boys, we survived. I became a room mom, served on the PTO board at our sons’ private school, became a team mom for our kids sports and worked on fundraisers for their teams and schools while Ron threw himself into building Legacy Ford.”

Time passed so quickly, with the Ewer baby boys now already in high school and a family business that continues to grow while Ron and Juliana are actively involved in the community. Juliana handles business for one of their LLCs with the dealership. “I love contributing to our business,” Juliana explains, “but my favorite part of Legacy Ford is being active in our community. Legacy Ford employees are personally involved Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H August 2013

with our non-profit partners. Many of our employees also deliver meals to seniors through Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels. Legacy also employs Texana Center clients.” Ron serves on several non-profit boards, dedicated to serving and giving back to the community while both Ewer sons are volunteering at Texana Center this summer. Ron and Juliana believe volunteerism builds character, empathy and accountability. Brandon, a junior this year, is a USA Swimmer and an All State High School Swimmer. Cameron, a freshman, will be playing football and plans on starting a Science Club at the high school this year.

“I feel deeply honored and thoroughly enjoy representing our family-owned business, Legacy Ford, at fundraisers, galas and events that support our community. I currently have the privilege to raise funds for our sons’ high school athletic booster club by serving as Booster Ball Chair for the third year in a row for Ridge Point High School,” Juliana smiles.

Building a business is a continual journey. Ron and Juliana look forward to continuing to build their family business, help the community flourish while focusing on non-profits that do so much for our community.

“Ron and I are truly blessed to be part of Fort Bend County. Through the twists and turns, God had a plan and we are honored to be a part of this community,” Juliana ends.

Fort Bend would truly have lost an exceptional family that is committed to doing so much for so many if on that day long ago Ron and Juliana would have decided instead to head north to Minneapolis. Many of our lives across Fort Bend would have been impacted. Thank you for your inner peace and listening to your heart!

9

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS

The journey of Justice of the Peace Mary S. Ward

C Judge Mary S. Ward

10

ompassionate, experienced, qualified and elegant are words that come to mind when one thinks of Mary Ward, Justice of the Peace, Pct. 1, Place 2.

“I understand what it means to grow up in a single-parent home,” Judge Ward explains, “as I lost my father at only 10 years old.” He had served in WW1, and due to complications of his injuries he passed away at 64 years old.

Judge Ward’s early years began in Georgia, as she grew up on a sharecropping farm.

At 18, she left Georgia to join her husband in Africa, who was serving in the U.S. Navy.

After returning from Africa, they moved to Rhode Island for a short time and then to Camp David. “My husband was a Navy Seabee, an integral part of the Navy that employed highly skilled craftsmen who were responsible for constructing units, airstrips, or cleanup.”

As JFK’s assassination is a memorable moment in many of our lives, Judge Ward and her husband were at Camp David when President Kennedy was assassinated. They were invited to come to the White House when the President’s body was at the White House.

Judge remembers the Secret Service whispering that they couldn’t find Jackie. She had

August 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS disappeared, later to be found in Lafayette Park with Bobby, the President’s brother. “I could relate to not being able to face death because of what I had experienced at such a young age with my father. Jackie not only had to face her loss but the President was shared by millions of people also losing him, that treacherous weekend. “ I remember such loss and grief that entire weekend. It was so devastating,” the Judge recalled.

After Camp David, Judge Ward moved back to Georgia and was elected Mayor of Mount Zion for three terms. Ward was the first female elected Republican in the State of Georgia.

It was then in 1977 that Ward and her husband came to Texas. Ward went to work for the Rosenberg Police Department and again broke another barrier for women, now becoming the first female detective.

In 1982, Ward was elected Justice of the Peace. She served one term and then went on to work for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice as an Internal Affairs Investigator. It was during this time that Governor Ann Richards started the substance abuse program in the prison system, which was first established at the Central Unit in Sugar Land. It was shortly thereafter that she went into conducting administrative hearings on offenders of all five prison units in Fort Bend County.

If Ward was going to return to office, it was crucial that she understood what the young generation was experiencing and get a thorough understanding what they were feeling today as compared to what she had observed in the past. Ward immersed her in substitute teaching, giving her a wealth of information of what the new generation was experiencing. “I wanted to be able to relate to them, to understand them, and to help through tough situations, “ Ward explained.

As a police detective for five years, one is privy to some of the most gruesome scenes and becomes accustomed to seeing murder scenes, accidents, and natural deaths, but nothing prepares you for the most difficult scene as when an inquest is necessary to be made on the death of a small child. “The innocence of a small child and the loss that is felt by everyone at the crime scene with a child’s life shortened, it’s nothing you can describe fully. It is a devastating story.”

It was in 2010 that Mary Ward was reelected as Fort Bend’s Justice of the Peace, Precinct 1, Place 2. Having been accustomed

Medical mission to South Texas

Judge Mary S. Ward

to viewing some of the worst crime scenes as a detective, Ward was prepared for her role.

She had served four years prior as Justice of the Peace, 10 years as a Municipal Judge, and conducted administrative hearings on offenders in the Texas Department Criminal Justice prison units. She was ready once again to face the challenge. This time she was armed with a background of knowledge and experiences shared by others, how they have been able to cope with the difficult times in their lives. This allows you to try to understand why others do what they do and the problems that they encounter because of their actions.

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H August 2013

“Being a Justice of the Peace requires that you can handle the tough issues, that you can bear to see some of the most heartbreaking and gruesome scenes, but it also allows me the great reward of being able to help someone accomplish their goals. Perhaps they got off track and need that compassionate, experienced and knowledgeable person to guide them in the right direction. Having spent time as a substitute teacher gave me such insight coupled with my years as detective, years working in the Texas Prison System, prior Justice of the Peace and Municipal Judge as well as years as Texas State Guard. It is so interesting how your life weaves together and each step is a step forward,” Judge Ward explains.

Not only has Judge Ward given more than 22 years of service in the Texas State Guard, retiring as a Colonel, she is a member of the Ladies V.F.W. Aux 3903, Texas Business Woman of Rosenberg, a life member of the Fort Bend Fair Association and Rosenberg Lions Club member, but she enjoys time with her five grandchildren and now three great grandchildren.

Will Judge Ward be seeking reelection, as a slight indication crossed her face and a twinkle appeared in her eye? “Yes, it’s about that time that I make my announcement.” How blessed we are to have a female Justice of the Peace in Fort Bend who is compassionate, experienced and knowledgeable. She has given to the community for so many years. Do come by and say hello to Judge Mary Ward.

11

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Women’s leadership brings company to new heights!

They’re Making Connections that work!

MEET THE PRESIDENT OF CARLTON STAFFING ANNETTE MONKS, CTS Question: What have been your major milestones; can you give us some background on your successful career and your transition to Carlton Staffing?

Annette: I have been in the staffing industry for 23 years. I started as a staffing consultant/recruiter and moved up the ranks with different roles and companies which helped me gain valuable experience. I worked for the largest international staffing firms and for very successful regional firms in operations, sales, training and sales management. My largest portfolio was $100M, covering 32 sites in five states. I took a break from staffing for 18 months and re-tooled by doing sales training and consulting until I heard that the President of Carlton Staffing was retiring and they were looking for his successor. I knew that was my job!

Question: What was your biggest struggle with working your way up the corporate ladder as a woman and how did you handle it?

Annette: My biggest struggle is not uncommon with most women—balancing my family and my work. Traveling weekly made it a challenge to be involved in my son’s school and extra-curricular activities and with my husband and our hobbies.

How did I handle it? Organization! I outsourced as much as I could. When possible, I scheduled my travel midweek and left weekends for my family. I worked after everyone else went to bed, and before they woke up if I had a pressing deadline.

I conducted more conference calls, used email more, and bottom line, rarely missed any of my family events or activities for work. And, I never missed a work deadline.

Period. No one ever questioned me on this as a result.

12

Question: What do you believe is your biggest accomplishment at Carlton Staffing?

Annette: During my first full year with Carlton, we had the highest revenue year in the 34-year history of the company and we doubled the competition in growth!

This was not by accident, but it was due to implementing a new sales process for the business development team in the field and infusing the company with new exciting marketing changes that got the team fired up and ready to win!

Question: How do you approach managing and leading the company?

Annette: Communication—early and often! Our employees can handle just about anything—as long as they know what is going on—good or bad. If I want them to be on the same page with me and to have the same vision and goals, I’d better have a conversation with them about it.

And not just once! The more I keep them informed, the more trust I earn and the company earns. In return, everyone gives an honest effort to meet the company’s goals and ultimately their own personal goals as a result.

Empowerment—at all levels. I believe that we teach our employees how to do their jobs, we communicate what the company expects, we gain their buy-in, and then we get out of the way and let them work!

Sometimes they fail and that is OK, as long as they can own it and learn from it. But most of the time they hit home runs and they come up with far better ways of doing their jobs than we could ever imagine! Our employees are smart, creative and hardworking; and as long as we foster the use of their incredible talent, the better the company will become—and faster too!

Question: It is said that promoting yourself is vital. How do you go about this?

August 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

Annette Monks, CTS

Annette: Get out there! Help in the community. Get involved with your local/ national industry association, with business associations and other causes throughout the city(ies) you have locations. “Give and You Shall Receive” could not be better demonstrated than in the business and community networking world!

Question: What advice would you give someone who wants to work in the staffing industry?

Annette: First, do a self-check to determine if this business is for you. Most staffing companies will allow people who have a true interest in the business to shadow someone in recruiting or sales while they work throughout the day. Watching them will help you determine if the pace, the interaction with clients and candidates, and the overall scope of work is something you would enjoy. Next, reach out to several companies in the staffing business and interview them! Each company is unique in culture and placement specialty, so it is important to find the one that fits your

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS

personality and work style. Lastly, have fun!

If anyone is interested in getting into the staffing industry, feel free to contact us!

We are growing and are always interested in speaking with potential new team members!

MEET AN AREA MANAGER OF CARLTON STAFFING – BETH HAMMOND, CTS Question: What have been your major milestones; can you give us some background on your successful career and your transition to Carlton Staffing?

Beth: I have been in the staffing industry since 1998. I started out as an entry-level employee, and have worked my way up to Area Manager over the Southwest and Inner Loop Carlton Staffing offices. I always call staffing my “accidental career.”

Prior to staffing, I worked in retail sales and manufacturing. Had it not been for a chance meeting with a staffing industry professional, who knows which direction my career path may have taken!

Carlton’s Southwest branch has been its top performer for nine years running, and last year I was promoted to open a new Inner Loop branch, which won the “2012 Rookie Office of the Year” award from our industry association!

Question: Your leadership has led your branches to extraordinary success.

How did you achieve this?

Beth: The staffing industry can be unpredictable at times. To be successful, you have to be resilient. You’ve got to persevere through good times and bad and always remain positive. Early on in my career a mentor told me, “Never let them see you sweat!”

Here’s how: • Follow through and follow up. If I say I’m going to do something, I do it.

And then I follow up to make sure that I did it right!

• Above and beyond customer service. Whether it’s with candidates or with clients, it’s imperative that this be second nature for all of my staff.

• Lead by example. My employees know that I will drop everything and help them at a moment’s notice. They are my

Beth Hammond, CTS

most important and valued asset. I also never ask them to do anything that I’m not willing to do myself.

It’s crucial to have a tenured, knowledgeable staff and unlimited corporate support. You must have a passion for what you do. Our clients and candidates recognize this and reward us with their continued loyalty.

Question: What would be your best piece of advice to give a woman just starting out in the business industry?

Beth: Although it may be a daunting task, you must step outside your comfort zone and connect with women in your targeted industry. Ask for advice. They’re usually more than willing to give it. And who knows, you could end up with a job lead, new contact or even a job offer. Don’t let fear of the unknown prevent you from reaching for your goals.

Before I got into staffing, I had just gotten laid off from a job and, on a whim, I attended a job fair. It was the first one I’d ever been to, and I was nervous, but I forced myself to go. I met a wonderful woman who would become one of my mentors in my staffing career.

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H August 2013

Question: What do you believe has been your biggest accomplishment at Carlton Staffing?

Beth: My biggest accomplishment has been building one of the most tenured group of staffing professionals at Carlton and, dare I say it?, the entire staffing industry.

During my time at Carlton, I’ve seen some of my employees move into leadership positions, which is very gratifying. I’m so proud of my staff and all of their accomplishments. And I’m equally proud to mark my 10-year anniversary this year at a company that really fosters a collaborative and team-oriented environment.

10707 Corporate Drive, #101 Stafford, TX 77477 281-265-8900

www.carltonstaffing.com

13

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Agent Walker takes action

W

hen you meet State Farm Agent, Tracy Walker, also known as Agent Walker, you will quickly pick up on that Walker is truly a woman of action. Since 1999, Walker has single-handedly been raising her three kids while also running a successful State Farm agency right in the heart of Sugar Land. Walker began her agency back in August of 1999, the same year that she gave birth to her youngest son. “It’s been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” Walker explains, “and I’ve never looked back or felt a single regret!” Action, determination, passion and faith is the glue that molds Tracy, the reason for her success and why she’s comfortable in her own skin at this point in her life.

Tracy’s strong belief is that her agency team is only as strong as the weakest link, so she makes sure that her team continually pursues the Walker Agency Mission Statement “We as the Dream Team will exceed all Expectations.” A powerfully packed motto created by Sugar Land’s very own Dream Team!

With Shon Williams, Sandra Zequeira, Gloria Galvan, Livi Alatorre and Annemarie Tracy Walker Boyd all on board at the Walker Agency, their combined 50 years of experience in the insurance industry has been a tremendous asset to the success of the Walker Agency. Tracy adds, “They are not just a part of my ‘Dream Team’ but also my extended family.”

The newest member on Agent Walker’s Dream Team includes her eldest son, Justin Walker, after graduating from Dulles High School last year and now attending local college. “I have learned so much already from the best teacher,” Justin explains with a big smile, “and I am so proud to be part of my mom’s business that she’s worked so hard to create and the time that she’s taking to teach me the ins and outs of a complicated and competitive business.” Walker, now with her eldest son Justin on board, along with her other two children, is proudly building a family legacy. Walker’s other two children, Jennifer, now a senior at Dulles High School, and James, the youngest and a middle schooler, also help in the office. Tracy, an excellent role model and mentor for her three children, says that working with her three children has brought them even closer together. “We’ve got a tight bond. We live together, work together, play together—the whole nine yards. We keep each other going, motivate each other and support each other. That’s what’s gotten us through the difficult

14

times. I just love my kids so much,” Tracy beams. “They are my life and why I keep working so hard. They keep me going.”

Some have referred to Tracy Walker, ChFC, CLU, CASL and CPCU as “the alphabet expert,” with her numerous financial designations behind her name.

The ChFC (Chartered Financial Consultant) designation is a nine course in-depth program that polishes the skills of an insurance professional in helping in advanced financial planning needs, again, for individuals, professionals and business owners.

The CLU (Chartered Life Underwriter) is the most respected designation of insurance expertise that demands the completion of eight rigorous courses. This designation covers an in-depth study not only on insurance needs of individuals but also for professionals and business owners of all sizes.

The CASL (Chartered Advisor for Senior Living) designation requires that five rigorous and advanced courses (consisting of 300400 hours) of intensive study be completed so that one can properly assist one’s clients in preparing not only going from middle age to the retirement years but also to help them in the management, preservation and transfer of wealth of senior clients. A prerequisite before even attempting this designation is the minimum of five years of experience of having worked with senior clients.

And finally, the CPCU (Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter) designation requires nine rigorous and advanced courses that covers complex policy and coverage risk analysis on the client’s property, home and automobiles.

Because of Walker’s extensive accomplishments in her studies, she was asked by State Farm to become a State Farm Investment Advisor, which only one percent of their agents are asked. Walker’s intensive and rigorous years of advanced study have enabled her in her dedicated

Agent Walker listening to Justin Walker

August 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS

efforts in offering her clients time to discuss their dreams, goals and the opportunity to create a plan of action for each and every one of them that specifically fits their needs. “A thorough, well thought out and organized plan of action, whether it’s insurance or life related, is necessary for a successful plan,” Walker explains. Walker also keeps books on personal development in her office and hands them out to clients who are searching to better themselves, as Walker believes that “No matter what age we are, we should always be striving to improve ourselves. Age doesn’t set barriers or limitations on self-improvement.”

Ones who know Tracy say that she’s not only a woman of action but also a woman in action, one who is always on the go in the community as well. Walker has been on the Sugar Land Rotary Board for three of the six years she’s been part of the Rotary. Walker is also active in Fort Bend BNI, on the board of the Southwest Area Professional Express Network, a lifetime Athletic Dulles Booster Club member, been on the SHAC Board for Fort Bend ISD and the CBLT Board. Walker has also enjoyed the last nine years working at Christ United Methodist Church’s Vacation Bible School and also enjoys speaking at Dulles’ eighth grade Career Day. The key to success is having smart but achievable goals, the attitude of gratitude, a win-or-learn philosophy and self affirmations. Walker has a glass container of rocks on her desk with a sign that reads “Live with an attitude of gratitude.” Take a gratitude rock, put it in your pocket, and every time you touch it, think of things that you are grateful for,” Walker shares.

Walker’s passion lies within our youth. Some of Walker’s favorite discussions are “Tracy’s Teen Talk,” where she talks to her youngest customers, new teen drivers on what to do and what not to do when

involved in an accident. Walker also enjoys discussing Roth IRAs with the youth so that they know how important it is to get started saving for their future. “The youth are our future and I plan to be active in our community for a very long time,” Walker explains.

When not helping clients or donating her time in the community, she loves watching kids playing sports. Walker would rather attend sports at the children’s level than the professional level. Soccer, football, track, basketball, volleyball, hockey and dance performances have kept her active in sports watching. Walker’s family tradition of tent camping at the beautiful Garner State Park is also an active family vacation. No wonder Agent Walker can be also called Action Walker!

The Tracy Walker Agency Dream Team is here to serve you.

Experience, proficiency and a caring professional is who you want serving you. Come on by and meet the Dream Team in Action!

Family is why we do it all.

Tracy Walker ChFC CLU CASL CPCU, Agent 15510 Lexington Blvd Ste P Sugar Land, TX 77478 Bus: 281-265-0711 tracy@agentwalker.com

0907504.1

We all feel the same commitment to care for our families. Helping you meet your insurance needs is part of my commitment to you.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.® CALL ME TODAY.

State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H August 2013

15

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Becoming the true, visible you

U

pon meeting Kim Bell, owner of Red is Kim, an image and branding consultancy; I could see why people immediately gravitate towards her.

She greets everyone with an infectious smile and contagious enthusiasm.

I sat down to talk with Kim to learn more about Red is Kim. Q: Tell me about Red is Kim (RiK).

KB: I reached the pinnacle in my position as a brand-marketing executive where I oversaw everything from multi-million dollar branding campaigns to public relations and more. It was time for me to move on.

Well, one day I was shopping and noticed a woman, looking very forlorn, trying to decide between two different tops. I just couldn’t resist helping her! She told me she was shopping for something to wear to her high school reunion. Before long, I had pulled together an entire ensemble for her including

16

shoes, accessories—even lipstick! When she saw herself in the mirror she said, “Hey, I look hot! I’m going to blow everyone away when I walk through those doors!” It was priceless!

Then it hit me! I really liked working one on one with people like I had with her.

I began RiK to provide women the encouragement and direction needed to transform their image, both professionally and personally, which also includes communication and interpersonal skills and etiquette. The ultimate goal is for each woman to feel confident, capable and beautiful! I want every woman to believe in herself!

Q: Where is Red is Kim headed?

KB: I found myself constantly encountering businesswomen who also needed “imaging” for their business.

With my marketing experience, I knew I could meet their needs. RiK will be providing brand development for businesses.

The gamut of services we’ll offer is quite

August 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

significant but some examples are logo and mixed media design, customer service training, office décor, employee dress codes and more.

In case you couldn’t tell, I’m a little excited!

Q: Anything else?

KB: Yes! A lot of men I’ve spoken with have asked about helping them with their images and some have even asked if I could give them tips on communicating with others on a professional and personal level.

Well, I couldn’t exclude the guys, could I? With that said, RiK now offers image makeovers for men along with the communication training they requested as well etiquette.

Q: So what does the “red” mean?

A: Become a client and you’ll find out!

(She’s grinning as she says this.)

To become a client of Red is Kim, contact Kim Bell at 713.291.2986 or via email at kim@rediskim.com. To learn more about Red is Kim visit rediskim.com.

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Second annual Pretty in Pink event helps local patients

H

ouston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Cancer Fund is in its second year of making a difference in the lives of Fort Bend-area cancer patients, providing financial assistance to those in need.

The Cancer Fund and its primary fund-raising event, Pretty in Pink at Sugar Land Town Square, were conceived and developed by a group of long-time Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital employees in the Physician Relations and Marketing Department.

“There are many cancer charities that fund research and efforts to find cures,” says Leena Taneja, Director of Physician Relations and Marketing. “We wanted to do something different, something that could have an immediate impact on our community.”

The team brainstormed ideas and eventually, the suggestion was made for a

fund to help cancer patients pay for nonhospital expenses.

“It’s an issue most people don’t think about,” says Leena. “But patients fighting cancer can lose income due to being out from work, and their regular expenses increase, too, for items such as transportation and child care. The fund is designed to relieve some of that burden for patients in Fort Bend, so they can focus on beating cancer.”

To raise money for the Cancer Fund, the team planned and implemented the Pretty in Pink event last year at Sugar Land Town Square. More than $110,000 was raised. This year’s Pretty in Pink – presented by local breast surgeons Dr. Sandra Templeton and Dr. Kelly Dempsey – is scheduled for Friday, October 11, from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

“Last year’s event was fantastic, and we are looking forward to an even better turnout and raising more money for the

fund,” says Kaelyn Bujnoch, Marketing Coordinator. “Pretty in Pink has activities for people of all ages, and it’s free to the public. We encourage everyone to come by and be a part of this new community tradition.”

Pretty in Pink will feature a wide range of family friendly activities, including live music, kids’ games, magic shows and at sundown, Town Square will be bathed in pink lights to honor ALL cancer survivors.

“I am so proud of my team for putting on this event, while continuing to provide excellent service in their daily roles for the hospital,” says Leena.

Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is asking Fort Bend and surrounding area residents to participate by coming out to the event and/or by making an online donation. To donate or for more information, visit HoustonMethodist.org/SugarLand and click on the, “Donate Now!” button!

Methodist diagnostic cardiology of houston working together for your heart health trust your heart to board certified cardiologists—Methodist diagnostic cardiology of houston—a specialty group of physicians who are devoted to your heart health.

John Passmore, M.D. • Kesavan Shan, M.D. • Earl Mangin Jr., M.D. Ronald Mahoney, M.D. • B. Keith Ellis, M.D.

from cholesterol management to the most complex diagnostic cardiac procedures, our cardiovascular care begins with building a relationship with our patients. We are committed to providing the highest quality care with the best possible outcomes for our patients. Plus, through our affiliation with Methodist sugar land hospital, we have access to state-of-the-art technology which enables us to provide outstanding care that is close to home.

Three Convenient Locations: MethodistSugarLandDocs.com

Drs. Ellis • Mahoney • Mangin • Passmore  Medical Office Building One 16651 SW Freeway • Suite 400 • Sugar Land, TX 77479 • 713-776-9500  7777 SW Freeway • Suite 420 • Houston, TX 77074 • 713-776-9500 Dr. Shan  Medical Office Building One 16651 SW Freeway • Suite 450 • Sugar Land, TX 77479 • 281-275-0330

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H August 2013

17

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Laura Richard, Master Juggler

F

ort Bend County is home to some of the most philanthropic, generous donors in the state, as well as numerous wonderful charitable foundations. Fort Bend Cares is one of those institutions dedicated to serving disadvantaged youth with integrity and compassion.

For the past year, Fort Bend Cares has been in the capable hands of one of our very special Women In Business, Laura Richard; a true gem of Fort Bend County.

On a beautiful spring day in April, golfers participated in the 9th Annual Fort Bend Cares Golf Tournament at Quail Valley Golf Club in Missouri City, raising proceeds for grants distributed to area youth charities. With the allocation of the 2013 grants, since its inception in 2004, Fort Bend Cares has contributed over $1 million to local organizations providing services for disadvantaged children. Under Laura’s leadership, Fort Bend Cares will continue to make a huge contribution to Fort Bend County.

Laura has held executive leadership positions in corporate and non-profit organizations and managed multimillion dollar budgets. While she traveled the world in her previous job with BMC in the computer software industry, Laura maintains deep ties to this community. An only child and life-long Texan, her family got to Fort Bend County as fast as they could and her parents reside in Missouri City.

Laura attended St. Thomas Episcopal School and went on to graduate Cum Laude from Houston Baptist University with a BA in Marketing and Management.

After her marriage to husband, Jim in 1997, the young couple purchased a home in Sugar Land where they currently reside with their three elementary school-aged children.

Laura accepted the position with Fort Bend Cares after over 20 years in management, marketing and development both in profit and non-profit organizations.

Her background in fundraising management and public relations, leading

Laura Richard and Family

18

August 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

and managing cross-functional teams, and a history of working with community leaders made her the perfect candidate for the job.

This energetic mother of three has spent years offering her time and resources to the community. In an effort to learn more about how the City of Sugar Land operates, Laura took the Sugar Land 101 course and is a graduate of the Fort Bend Leadership program. She was an Ambassador for the Central Fort Bend Alliance Chamber of Commerce, served as a CASA Court Advocate, a Texana Advisory Board Member and a Fort Bend Community Prevention Coalition Member.

Laura is well known in Republican Party circles. In addition to working on multiple political campaigns, she is a member of several clubs and has served on standing committees in an effort to help her party.

In her spare time, Laura volunteers hours at her children’s school, the Fort Bend Junior Service League, Fort Bend Mental Health America, and

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS

If you are not a golfer and are interested in supporting Fort Bend Cares, the organization has partnered with PowerDecal, and is offering college and professional sports teams Power Decals for $25.00. This is a solar-powered, LED backlit decal that goes inside of your car and lights up at night.

The device turns on automatically while driving at night via sensor technology and shuts off after 2 minutes when parked; once installed you never need to touch it. You can order your favorite team’s decal by visiting the Fort Bend Cares website: wwwfortbendcares.org. Order your decal before the games begin!

Laura Richard

HHHHH other non-profit organizations.

As if raising three children and volunteering, while working a very satisfying full-time job, doesn’t command a packed schedule, Laura has spent the past year nursing and supporting her husband of 15 years as he battled brain cancer. And she didn’t miss a beat.

Laura and Jim were overwhelmed and humbled by the amount of love and support they received from their Fort Bend County friends and neighbors who rallied around the moment they heard about Jim’s life-shattering illness. The family gives credit for Jim’s recovery to the outstanding doctors and health care providers at M.D. Anderson and the

prayers that came from Fort Bend County.

Laura considers it a privilege to give back to this community that has been extremely supportive of her and her family for so many years. True to her giving nature, she wishes to repay them by taking on yet another form of community service. Laura has announced her intent to run for Fort Bend County Clerk, a position that has been ably served for many years by Dianne Wilson, who is not running for re-election.

Laura says, “I am proud to have the support of a great number of Republican Party Precinct Chairs and party leaders

countywide. I am humbled to be supported by a large number of Fort Bend County voters. I have been active in Republican Party politics for the past 20 years. I am uniquely qualified to serve in this capacity and I want to give back to my community. As in my personal life, I pledge to be fiscally conservative and remain within the budget constraints allotted to this department.”

We believe that with Laura’s excellent leadership, organization and execution skills, she can accomplish anything she puts her mind to. Best of luck with your campaign Laura.

HHHHH Mark your calendars now for the 2014 Road Trip event on February 1 at Fluor in Sugar Land.

The destination is still a surprise at this point, but sponsorship opportunities are now available.

For more information, visit www.fortbendcares.org. You may also view a list of grant recipients on the Grants Page.

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H August 2013

19

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS

A Passion for Life...

Life at Liberty Mutual Insurance is more than just sales and service. It is not just a job but also a career. Liberty Mutual Insurance is about helping people prepare for the unexpected.

There are many positive aspects about Liberty Mutual. Liberty Mutual, headquartered in Boston, MA, is now approaching 101 years in business and still growing strong. With seven branches in the greater Houston area, the Katy branch is the oldest and most established. In Katy, only three of the 15 sales agents are women.

At the Liberty Mutual office in Katy, there is a unique three generational female team.

Nancy McDowell, Preeya Mistry and Diana Salazar are at very different stages in their lives and careers and therefore, provide different insights to the team. The three women provide balance and support for each other. Their diverse experience level brings different perspectives to the client.

“Being at very different stages of our lives reminds each of us that we cannot stop the hands of time and the inevitable,“ Nancy explained.

Nancy McDowell joined Liberty Mutual 10 years ago after having graduated from Louisiana State University. During her tenure with Liberty Mutual, Nancy has achieved her LUTCF (Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow) and has also received numerous awards highlighting her outstanding performance. Nancy also enjoys being married and has a 14-year-old daughter who keeps her busy with a hectic soccer schedule. “I would never have guessed that I would enjoy selling life insurance as much as I do. It just…happened.” Nancy has had many positions at Liberty Mutual: Customer service representative, manager and now Lead Sales Representative. Nancy attributes her decade-long commitment with Liberty Mutual to both her personality and the company that she thoroughly enjoys working for. I realized very quickly that what my mother taught me was so true: “Building relationships is key to becoming successful.” Nancy continues to build relationships with Liberty Mutual, growing her client base while allowing her to help

20

Preeya Mistry, Diana Salazar and Nancy McDowell.

others meet their personal needs.

Preeya, the bubbly, fun-loving second member of the team, has been with Liberty Mutual for nine years, after graduating with honors from the University of Houston under the Program For Excellence in Selling (PES).

Preeya has also completed her LUTCF designation and has received numerous accommodations within the company. Preeya was a sales manager with Liberty Mutual Insurance in the Austin area and has recently moved back into a sales agent role when her family relocated to the Katy area. “I prefer sales over management because of the

August 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

personal satisfaction of helping my clients achieve insurance independence.” Preeya has a husband and now an adorable two-year-old son. “As a working mother of a young child, I get the satisfaction of helping other young families with their life insurance needs. I see the value every night when I go home and I am reunited with my son,” she smiles. Preeya further adds what so many working moms can relate to, “I work two full-time jobs. After helping my clients—which stretch from Dallas, Austin, San Antonio and back to Houston—I then go home to my second full-time job—the joy of spending time

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS

with my two-year-old son and being a mom.”

Diana, the third and youngest member of the all-women power trio, started her internship with Liberty Mutual in April 2013.

Diana has two children (an adorable little boy and a beautiful daughter) and is completing her degree at University of Houston while working as an intern for Liberty Mutual. “Diana is the intriguing part of our team, because she is like a sponge. To watch her grow, learn and get excited about selling life insurance means so much to both Preeya and me, as we are her mentors and want her to become a successful part of Liberty Mutual,” Nancy smiles. Diana adds, “I feel very fortunate to be part of a team with two women who have achieved so much in their careers, which I hope to mirror in my growing career.” Diana juggles two young children as a single mom while studying and interning—“very proficiently, mind you!” Nancy adds. Diana is an integral part of the team because she brings energy, new life and enthusiasm. “We enjoy watching her grow, learn and get excited about life insurance, which means so much to both Preeya and me,” Nancy explains.

The dynamic trio understands that real life situations vary dramatically (both professionally and personally) allowing them the ability to better understand the needs of their clients. The need for life insurance is the key to the survival of both families and businesses. Planning and understanding your options—while working with a knowledgeable team—is priceless to the client.

Women in the work force have garnered a more relevant position in becoming the primary breadwinner for their families, now turning the tables for the first time in history literally upside down. As recent as May of this year, PEW Research released a study that 40% of American households’ main breadwinner is the woman. Of that 40%, 63% of the women are single mothers. “That tells me that we have come a long way, baby!”

Nancy exclaims. Women have a natural instinct to take care of people. Buying life insurance is part of the plan in preparing for the future, so it becomes an easy fit for Nancy and Preeya when sitting down with a husband

and wife. No one wants to be a burden on his or her family, making the need for life insurance a priority. Many people have group life insurance through their employer and presume that coverage is all that is needed.

This is a misconception that can dangerously place the family’s financial safety net in jeopardy should a catastrophe occur. Group life insurance generally isn’t portable when leaving your place of employment. What happens between jobs if your health has faltered? At a minimum, you will pay much higher rates…if you are insurable at all. Now what? You may have put your family in a detrimental situation which could have been avoided with proper guidance, sound planning, and affordable life insurance.

Recognizing the need to have appropriate life insurance outside of work is an important component in being prepared for the unexpected.

The dynamic trio works with many families where the father has become the “stay-athome parent.” Studies are illustrating that more families are moving back in the direction of having one parent stay home as the primary caregiver. While this is usually a joint decision, it is still difficult for the couple to understand the monetary value of the stay-at-home spouse. What is the “price tag” on the stay-at-home parent? It’s a much more complicated formula than comparing it to the working spouse’s salary. Far too often the primary breadwinner does not see the need for the stay-at-home parent to have life insurance, either from being misinformed or misgauging the importance of this crucial role.

Rationalizing this role as minimal is limiting the intangible value what the stay-at-home parent contributes to the household. The working spouse may say, “We do not need a policy on my wife because she does not bring a salary into the home.” This could not be further from the truth. As an example, this threemember power team recently helped a family with small children. The father had a very successful, high paying career while the wife was a stay-at-home mom. Tragically, the non-income bearing wife was diagnosed with stage four cancer. Suddenly the primary

NANCY MCDOWELL, LUTCF

breadwinner not only had to financially provide for his family but also take on the complex role of taxi driver, counselor, cook, bookkeeper and sole decision maker for his children. Who would expect one’s life to be cut so short? This couple hadn’t planned for a life-threatening illness. They were unprepared for the dark journey that took a much different direction. They had underestimated the “value” the stay-athome mother contributed to the family.

With an increase in single parent families, this segment of clients has become an important focus for the Katy team.

Single parents have to juggle all of the demands and duties of running a home, shuffling kids to school or daycare and busy work schedules—a truly grueling task. What happens to the children if that single parent dies prematurely? Will the children be assured that they will have the bright future if their parent is no longer there? “Single parents get it. They know that if something happens to them, their children will be all alone. They see the value in life insurance.

They want to leave a legacy for their children. This gives them a sense of peace and security knowing that their children’s futures are financially provided for,” Diana explains as a single mother.

These are just three situations that Nancy, Preeya and Diana encounter on a daily basis. “If we can touch just one life, we’ve done our job,” Preeya smiles. These three ladies are passionate about what they do and how they can impact the lives of their clients. As we go through life, we need to ask the tough but most important questions: Do you have enough life insurance to meet your family’s needs?

Have you done a thorough review to determine how much life insurance is enough? Do you feel secure leaving your financial future left to uncertainty? Life insurance is the most precious gift one can give to their loved ones. While we know that life insurance may not be at the top of your gift-giving list, it is the one gift that will truly give you the most peace. Show them that you care. We do!

PREEYA MISTRY, LUTCF

23232 Kingsland Blvd., Suite D Katy, TX 77494 281.392.4333 • Ext. 59095 Nancy.McDowell@LibertyMutual.com

23232 Kingsland Blvd., Suite D Katy, TX 77494 281.392.4333 • Ext. 56205 Preeya.Mistry@LibertyMutual.com

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H August 2013

21

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Shaunna Witt ~ our business is Cookin’!

Shaunna Witt is excited about the growth of the family business, Witt’s Catering, Inc. Since 1999 Randy Witt (the good cook in the family) has been cookin’ up their family recipes for local business meetings and large family-style events. They have a NEW MENU with a wide variety of homemade items including everything from Cute Box Lunches like “The Witt’s End” to the Best BBQ in town. If you‘re at your Witt’s End and need some Good Home Cookin’ at your next event, contact Shaunna Witt for help.

Her family would love to serve you! You can check out Witt’s Catering at www.wittscatering.com or call the kitchen at 281-344-8338 or email ShaunnaWitt@wittscatering.com.

Shaunna Witt

CORPORATE CATERING www.wittscatering.com

281.344.8338

BRAZORIA • FORT BEND • HARRIS • MATAGORDA • WHARTON

NOW HIRING

10 - LVN’s - Field Nurses 7 - RN’s - Field Nurses

Must provide with application process: • College certified transcripts • License • Original Social Security Card • Two recent work references • Driver’s License / Auto Insurance Coverage

Needed In and Around: • 288 • 610 EAST • 249 • 1960 • I-10 EAST & WEST

A thorough criminal background check will be performed.

Email resume to Clinical@siercam.com, fax 281.232.9994 or apply in person.

SierCam

Healthcare Services, LLC Dana Williams, RN

22

812 3rd Street • Rosenberg, TX 77471 • www.siercam.com August 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Global investors seek business in Texas

A

s an attorney, Farha Ahmed is always looking for new ways to serve her clients. After handling several global commercial transactions, Ahmed realized immigration is not just about business, it’s all about business.

With the U.S. economy gaining strength, overseas investors are quickly finding that it’s not good business to bet against America. America always comes back, reinventing itself with its own brand of emerging industries. Today, immigration can play a strong role in business investments.

There’s no time like the present. Texas is at a crossroads of benefiting from immigration and investment opportunities for immigrants. Current laws allow those who are willing to invest in startup companies and real estate development to reap the benefits of U.S. residency. Recent studies also show some 40% of Fortune

500 firms were founded by immigrants or their children.

“Both immigrants and nonimmigrants who want to invest in U.S. businesses or startup companies have the advantage of applying for treaty investor visas,” says Ahmed. “Immigrant and nonimmigrant visas are also available.”

From an initial investment of $100,000 to $1 million (U.S. dollars), the law allows for investments in designated projects with some targeting economically needy regions. The process is laid out in conjunction with the Department of Labor and the United States Immigration Service.

Two kinds of visas are being highlighted: E-2 and EB-5 An E-2 visa benefits individuals living in countries that have a treaty with the United States. While some investments of less than $100,000 are approved, investment capital and reserves should

total $100,000-$200,000 and project an employment of three to four persons.

E-2 visas last two years and then the investor can apply unlimited times as needed. This is established by showing 50% ownership or operational control.

Once qualified, investors can enter into the U.S. to benefit in this category, while looking for other opportunities and applying for green cards and citizenship.

An EB-5 visa occurs with a $500,000 investment in the U.S. It qualifies the investor for an EB-5 Green Card. It provides Lifetime Permanent Resident status. Funds may come from any legal foreign or U.S. source, including the sale of property, gifts, loans, pension funds, trusts and inheritance.

Ahmed’s firm effectively works to bring together foreign nationals who want to invest in the U.S. and in businesses that GLOBAL, continued on page 40

Commitment to excellence COMMERCIAL TRANSACTIONS • FAMILY LAW PROBATE • CIVIL LITIGATION

In Private Practice for 20 years 2150 Town Square Place Sugar Land, Texas 77479 Tel: 281.313.3839 www.farhaahmedlaw.com

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H August 2013

Farha Ahmed

23

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Financial resources for women in business

By Shaun Coard

Business Banking Manager, Wells Fargo

T

here’s one topic we hear about most often when we talk to women who are building their own businesses: Obtaining financing can feel like a daunting task. We also talk with too many business owners who are unaware of the many resources available to help them access capital.

We want to change that and make more women aware of their options. Today there’s a growing list of government, non-profit and private organizations that provide resources for women in business. Here are a few to consider: • Financial service providers that have a special focus on women-owned businesses: More financial institutions are recognizing the importance and growth of the segment – nearly 30 percent of businesses are owned by women today. As a result, more financial institutions are adding services and programs specially geared toward helping women learn about financing options and how to obtain a small business loan. At Wells Fargo, for example, we recently committed to lend a cumulative total of $55 billion to women-owned businesses by 2020, in addition to offering numerous resources for small businesses.

• U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA): The SBA operates Women’s Business Centers across the country – a network of educational centers designed to assist women in starting and growing small businesses.

When a business owner is ready for a loan, she may want to consider an SBA loan, which is offered through banks and other lending institutions. SBA loan products, such as SBA 7(a) and 504 loans, can be good options for some creditworthy small business owners who may not able to obtain conventional loans or loan terms that meet their business needs.

• National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO): With more

24

Shaun Coard

than 5,000 members and 60 chapters, NAWBO is a valuable resource helping to propel women business owners into greater economic, social and political spheres of power worldwide.

Once you’re ready to apply for a loan, there are a few questions any lender will ask: How much do you need? What will you do with the financing? How will you pay it back?

Your success in securing a loan will depend on your answers. To help maximize your chances, before you approach a lender, make sure to do your homework in each of these key areas.

How much do you need?

This the most fundamental question.

Having a precise answer is the first step in proving that you’re prepared. If you aren’t sure how much to ask for, revisit your business plan and business financials first. Look at what you have available, and what you project you will need to reach your goals, then do the math.

Why do you need it?

This is really a two-part question. Lenders are interested in knowing whether you’re seeking financing to solve a problem, or to seize an opportunity.

You should maintain an up-to-date business plan that you revise regularly as your

August 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

business grows. If you’re just getting started, you can find plenty of guidance online, such as this step-by-step guide available at Wells Fargo’s Business Insight Resource Center: https://wellsfargobusinessinsights.com/business-stages/startup/writing-business-plan How will you repay your loan?

The last question requires the most detailed documentation. Start with your current financials to show how much cash your business generates now. Then prepare cash flow projections: your best estimates of how much you anticipate generating after you receive the loan. Include principal and interest payments in the forecasts, and keep the loan terms within bank policy guidelines.

If the loan is secured by collateral, be prepared to explain exactly what tangible assets you can offer as a guarantee. Examples are equipment, a house or a car. In addition to collateral, how much cash will you personally put into the business? When outlining your debts and assets, consider including your personal financial information as well. This will help the lender get a sense of your personal financial stability.

Once you’ve prepared your proposal and collected the necessary information and documents to back it up, you’re ready to talk to potential lenders. Be sure that you can explain clearly what you intend to do with the loan and why you expect the venture to succeed.

Finally, be prepared to discuss your own business qualifications. Because the success of a small business largely depends on leadership, your skills and knowledge are an important part of your company’s profile.

When you’ve done your research, have all your documents in order, and can credibly answer your lender’s questions, you’ve greatly improved your chances of securing capital and launching your business. Make sure to take advantage of the resources available to women business owners. The more you know about your options, the better chance of success.

Shaun Coard is a Business Banking Manager for Wells Fargo in Missouri City.

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS

00_08976 7.25x9.75 Full Page 4c

Business financing options Credit services for all your business needs

Whether you want to expand your business, purchase new equipment, acquire a new building, or increase your inventory, Wells Fargo has credit options that can help you make the most of your business.

These include loans and lines of credit that provide you with the cash you need to: • Fund real estate acquisitions • Satisfy working capital needs • Pay day-to-day operating expenses • Expand into new markets

Commercial real estate loans

Find the right loan to purchase or refinance a property when you choose from our wide array of commercial real estate loans, with terms to suit your cash flow needs.

Construction loans

Get money for new construction of your office, plant, warehouse, or production facilities with a Wells Fargo Construction Loan.

Equipment and commercial vehicle financing

Let us make it easier for you to manage an equipment and commercial vehicle acquisition with a lease, loan or line of credit, tailored to the needs of your business.

Small Business Administration (SBA) loans

An SBA loan from Wells Fargo — America’s #1 SBA lender* — is a great option for financing business growth. With lower down payments and lower monthly payments than most conventional business loans, SBA loans can be used to finance most business needs, including real estate purchases; construction, renovation, and leasehold improvements; business acquisitions; machinery and equipment; and working capital.

Call me today for more information Shaun Coard • Business Banking Manager 281-208-6220 • lashaun.a.coard@wellsfargo.com

* Wells Fargo is the #1 SBA 7(a) lender by dollars according to the U.S. Small Business Administration as of September 30, 2012.

All financing subject to credit approval and, as applicable, SBA eligibility. © 2013 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. NMLSR ID 399801 (985200_08976)

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H August 2013

25

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Resilience, Collaboration, Spirituality and Leadership In Loving Memory Of My Husband, S.E. “Gene” Cobbin

COVER STORY

D

r. Jacqueline Horton-Cobbin, CEO, of Cobbin & Associates, is an independent consulting company for profit and non-profit entities around the country. Dr. Jacqueline Horton-Cobbin, after just returning from Washington, D.C., has become a well-known and highly respected consultant and woman to be reckoned with who has accomplished so much. Dr. Cobbin received her doctorate in 1985 from Texas Southern University and was later inducted into the College of Education Hall of Fame. She served as a school administrator, director and middle school principal specialist for Region 4 Education Service Center with the responsibility of professional development and leadership training for 52 school districts. She was launched into the national level as presenter and motivational speaker and coined as “one of the most effective and results-oriented consultants in America.” Locally, Dr. Cobbin worked with University of HoustonVictoria and Lamar University-Beaumont, with recognition of having crafted one of the well-written evaluation reports for the State and has served as adjunct professor at the University of Houston-Clear Lake, as well as St. Thomas University. It was following a commencement address at a local high school, that Dr. Cobbin’s CD was created “How Will You Live Your Life When No One Else Is Watching?”, an inspiring and motivational message. Cobbin believes that “With spiritual and intellectual knowledge, students can achieve a victorious life and that your character determines your destiny.”

Dr. Jacqueline Horton-Cobbin advises, “Not only as a business owner but in one’s personal life, resilience is crucial. When confronted with adverse circumstances, one has to be able to sustain and become resilient. Tell yourself that you can make it through any situation with a higher calling so that you can inspire others,” Dr. Cobbin explains, firmly believing that we all have a responsibility when making decisions, facing challenges and creating opportunities to inspire others to move forward and improve ourselves along the way. “The recent death of my husband is a prime example of not giving up!”

Dr. Cobbin’s expertise ranges from assisting profit and non-profit organizations, keynote speaking at conferences, schools, churches, women’s groups to also serving on the Board of Directors Earth Angels, an organization of women who mentor young girls. For fun, Dr. Cobbin plans and delivers fashion shows while offering personal fashion consultation to women from all arenas. Cobbin owned Divine Closet Boutique, a “Galleria-style Store” in southwest Houston. She literally

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS wears lots of HATS!!!! But, Cobbin’s deepest passion and wealth of experience with a list of successes is with the school improvement mission.

Education is the key that opens the door to success. Helping improve schools can range from assisting high-performing schools to keep their rating, improving low-performing schools to a higher level or reconstitution of a school campus (meaning its closure or merger). Dr. Cobbin prefers serving on the school improvement side. It is Cobbin & Associates’ task, when called in by the Texas Education Agency, to bring a low-performing school up to standards and developing/ implementing the improvement plan. “For starters, schools are data driven. First, you must analyze performance data that is gathered and use the databased decision-making process to implement successful solutions,” Cobbin explains. “I’ll have the documentation to back up what has worked, such as test scores, attendance records, professional development indicators to illustrate that a specific school is successful or moving in the required improvement direction,” Cobbin further explains.

Cobbin sees a new dilemma that schools are facing. “All kids can learn, given ample time and resources, the appropriate curriculum, quality skilled-based and compassionate teachers; however, we need to educate and train our new set of parents,” Cobbin expounds. Many of the parents (with kids in low-performing schools) are young mothers who have been miseducated or oftentimes single mothers who have dropped out of school or had a negative school experience. Therefore, these young mothers do not necessarily have the skills or the knowledge necessary to assist their kids at home. At one point, it was said that kids are disadvantaged. Dr. Cobbin expounds further, “Kids aren’t disadvantaged. They lack the necessary experiences—whether cultural, not having experienced structured-preschool training, daycare or appropriate social experiences.

The gap has widened between the haves and have nots. From my vantage point as an educator, coming from a low-income home, we didn’t have a lot, but we had parents at

home that insisted that we are educated, and churches that provided the spiritual guidance to encourage positive thinking.

Adults made education a priority.” Lowperforming schools also face the dilemma of attracting quality teachers. Whether it’s a lack of resources, time or outright frustration, low-performing schools sometime cannot attract the highest caliber of teachers with a commitment to remain in that school. Give teachers the tools and training to take care of the classroom, to teach the curriculum, and then allow administrators to handle everything else. The administrator must develop parent trainings, active PTAs and partnerships with home/church/ communities/businesses,” Cobbin explains.

Community plays a key role in the success of the family unit. Churches are still one of the best resources to bring into the whole picture. “It’s like a marriage between school, children and family. We are the collaborators in bringing community together. The parent/ Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H August 2013

school relationship must be an authentic relationship in order to be successful. And we need to use the resources in our communities to do so,” Cobbin confirms.

Cobbin’s passion is about meeting the needs of kids and teachers who do not have the resources that are needed to bring the schools up to high-performing schools.

“God allows us to go through life-changing experiences to let us know that He is really in control; second, to keep us humble; and third, to keep us within His purpose. My purpose is to inspire, to motivate, to plant seeds of greatness because that’s what He did for me. He allows us to experience things in our lives so that we can use those experiences to serve others,” Cobbin profoundly explains.

The secret to Cobbin & Associates’ success is Dr. Cobbin bringing on board Masterlevel professionals who have specific skill sets to assist in meeting the needs of her clients.

Consulting is actually like matching needs with talents. “So for me, it’s important to mentor young men and women so that somewhere down the line, they have the opportunity to become an entrepreneur or mirror some of the strategies I’ve modeled.

Because of this entrepreneurial spirit that’s been taught to us in my church, we have a reason to share our expertise. So, that’s been a positive side of Cobbin & Associates, but even deeper than that, from the spiritual perspective, our success obligates me to mentor,” Cobbin explains.

Cobbin, a very spiritual woman, talks of her experiences through her career, “When God knocks, He sends His answer in such Continues...

27

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND / KATY WOMEN IN BUSINESS a profound and miraculous way, there is no way in the world we could have done it by ourselves. He works through us. Everything He has assigned me to do, it was beyond successful and more but like ‘Wow!’ He hasn’t stopped surprising me of what He can do through us.”

After Cobbin completed her doctorate, she wanted to give back, so she went to work for Children’s Protective Services for almost three years, directing the school program at Chimney Rock Center, a residential center for abused and neglected kids, and created a school program that was highlighted at the State level. That allowed Cobbin to witness firsthand some of the ills of society where our children were victims both physically and sexually, from all races and socio-economic levels.

One of Cobbin’s challenging tasks is when TEA sends her in to assist in the reconstitution of a campus. “Do you like those assignments? No, you do not. Are they necessary? Yes, they are. Are they uncomfortable and in the best interest of the children? Yes, some are,” Cobbin assures, “but I choose to serve on the school improvement side.”

Cobbin & Associates has flourished because she’s passionate that learning takes place. Sometimes organizations do not want to hear your recommendations for improvement. When you have strong moral and ethical beliefs coupled with proven experience on what’s best for children, it may not be the most popular thing to say.

So where does Cobbin see herself in

The Hortons, Charles (son), Toni (wife), Hannah and Haileigh, grandchildren. Not shown: Byron, Sonya and Christopher Cobbin.

28

five years? “I would like to have expanded my influence across the waters,” Cobbin explains. Her church, Windsor Village United Methodist Church, has an orphanage in Kenya. The Cobbins have been philanthropists since its inception, have raised money and given money but have not gone to see the kids and staff. “My immediate goal is to visit Kenya in 2014, as we are working on the library and other expansions, as our associate pastor heads up the project,” Cobbin says with a broad smile.

Cobbin also wants to expand her collaboration efforts because there is so much that can be done beyond just one consulting firm. Cobbin has just written a funding proposal for New York City’s Department of Education to train its educational leaders.

The project is so massive that it requires the whole technology piece that allows us to develop training materials and resources to be delivered virtually. Partnering with a technology consulting firm to develop that portion of services allows Cobbin to costeffectively deliver professional development.

“If we are going to impact more schools and inspire more educational leaders, it requires partnerships to deliver services in a more efficient way. The technology piece is so crucial,” Cobbin outlines.

Cobbin will continue to work at the university level because it is so important to develop administrators and school leaders who understand their responsibility and what it takes to lead.

Cobbin’s “bucket list” doesn’t stop there.

Her passion for starting a foundation runs August 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

deep so that she can give scholarships so that kids can pursue their education to catapult them to their God-given destiny. “I must be strategic enough to create new business,” Cobbin explains. Cobbin & Associates has repeat clients because of the success those clients have experienced, but the firm has to be strategic in creating new business so that those new relationships blossom. Cobbin believes that when you surround yourself with people of influence who have common passions, they can help you in meeting your goals. “It takes collaboration because the mission is far greater than just Dr. Jacqueline Horton-Cobbin, CEO of Cobbin & Associates,” Cobbin realizes. There are several books from Cobbin forthcoming.

“Success is not about financial capital although capital is necessary. Success is more about influencing human capital and of making an impact through connections around the world. It will take people of influence to move in this perspective,” Cobbin explains. “If you think that the first 10-years record of Cobbin & Associates is impressive, wait until you get to see a glimpse of our future. We’ve made a few new friends in collaborations that are propelling us into the future! Aspiring to make a greater impact and do more for others, reaching higher professional goals and expanding our Godgiven kingdom territory while leaving a legacy for my family, that’s my future” Cobbin ends with a huge smile.

To contact Cobbin & Associates, call 832-715-6830 or email at jcobbin2@ sbcglobal.net.

REGISTRATION FORM

Success is just around the Bend.

83 Legislative Wrap-Up rd

HUFFMAN & HEGAR

WHEN: Monday, September 9, 2013 Luncheon: 11:30 AM- 1:00 PM

The Governmental Relations Division of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce will host an 83rd Legislative Session Wrap-Up. Both Senator Joan Huffman from District 17 and Senator Glenn Hegar from District 18 will review the past session.

WHERE: Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd.

Sugar Land, TX 77478

Senator Joan Huffman, District 17

LUNCHEON: $800

Reserved seating for EIGHT in premier location

SPONSORSHIP

Company logo featured on all event materials

Save The Date Member Reservation: $25

Non-Member Reservation: $35

Name:

Company:

Email: Monday, November 4, 2013 Payment:

Mastercard

VISA

AmEx

Phone:

Discover

Credit Card No.

Recognition at Event

At Door: $40

For more information contact Jan-michael Jenkins 281.491.0218 or jan@fortbendcc.org

Check In Mail

Send Invoice

Exp. Date:

Security Code:

Name on Credit Card: Billing Address: State:

City:

Zip Code:

REGISTER and PAY online at www.fortbendchamber.com

Cancellations must be made 48 hours prior to event date for a full refund to be issued

2013

RETURN FORM VIA...

EMAIL Matthew Ferraro

matthew@fortbendcc.org 281 . 491 . 0277

MAIL Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd.

Sugar Land, TX 77478

FAX ATTN: Matthew Ferraro 281 . 491 . 0112

RETURN

Other Sponsors Include: Federal Maintenance The Phoenix Design Group, Inc.

www.FortBendChamber.com

St. Lukes Sugar Land Hospital Harris Construction Company, LTD.

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H August 2013

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Senator Glenn Hegar, District 18

29

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.

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Welcome New Members

30

Bricks 4 Kidz Michalyn Porter, Director 6136 Highway 6 Missouri City, TX 77459 281-778-5439 Child Care

Community Impact Newspaper Jason Culpepper, Publisher 8400 N. Sam Houston Pkwy. West Katy, TX 77064 281-469-6181 Newspapers

Charlie’s Restaurant & Catering Charles Irving, Owner 1250 Texas Parkway Suite J. Stafford, TX 77477 281-499-2233 Restaurants

Divorce Finance Analysis, Inc. Steve Pontiff, CDFA, ADPA, CRPC 4914 Rutherford Ct. Sugar Land, TX 77479 713-780-8888 Financial Services

Polka Dot Impressions Camille Rodriquez, Owner/CEO 2223 Southern Place Richmond, TX 77406 281-762-1120 Marketing Services

For membership information, contact: Jan-Michael Jenkins 281-491-0218 jan@fortbendcc.org

EST. 1910

State of the City with

Mayor Vincent Morales Presented By

Monday, September 30 - 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Safari Texas Ranch - 11627 FM 1464 - Richmond

Underwritten By

August 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

www.FortBendChamber.com

2013STATE STATE of the SCHOOLS 2013 Success is just around the Bend.

WHEN

An opportunity to address issues, share accomplishments, and look to the future of Fort Bend County public education.

Friday, September 13th Luncheon: 11:00 - 1:00PM

WHERE Charles Dupre, Superintendent

Dr. Lance Hindt, Superintendent

Sugar Land Marriott Hotel 16090 City Walk Sugar Land,TX

Dr. Thomas Randle, Superintendent

PRESENTER: $2,000

Reserved table for TEN in premier location

Company logo featured on all event materials

Recognition at Event

UNDERWRITER: $1,000

Reserved table for EIGHT in premier location

Company logo featured on all event materials

Recognition at Event

SUPPORTER: $500

Reserved seating for TWO in preferred location

Company logo featured on all event materials

Recognition at Event

LEVEL SPONSORSHIP LEVEL SPONSORSHIP

LEVEL SPONSORSHIP

Corporate Table for 8: $500

Member Reservation: $35

Name

Company

Email

Phone

Payment:

Mastercard

VISA

AmEx

Discover

Credit Card No.

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

REGISTRATION FORM

Non-Member Reservation: $45

Check In Mail

Send Invoice

Exp. Date

Security Code

Name on Credit Card Billing Address State

City

Zip Code

REGISTER and PAY online at www.fortbendchamber.com Cancellations must be made 48 hours prior to event date for a full refund to be issued

RETURN FORM VIA...

www.FortBendChamber.com

EMAIL Farrah Gandhi

farrah@fortbendcc.org 281 . 566 . 2152

MAIL Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd.

Sugar Land, TX 77478

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H August 2013

FAX

ATTN: Farrah Gandhi 281 . 491 . 0112

31

Success is just around the bend 1 YEAR

3 YEARS

2 YEARS

Colony Limousine of Sugar Land Hamid Mirabi, 281-265-5466

Texas Engineering and Mapping Company Gregory Schmidt, 281-491-2525 Catholic Charities Cynthia Colbert, 713-874-6737

IronStone Realty Advisors Barkley Peschel, 281-242-2300

Sixta & Associates Don S. Sixta, 281-485-4366

Milestone Member

ROSI Recycled Office Systems, Inc John Ofield, 281-403-4477 Benefits Unlimited / Gallagher Benefits Services Eileen Westbrook, 281-243-6409

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

DeVry University Stephanie Ross, 281-566-6000

32

Success is just around the Bend.

Milestone Member

PPG Industries Deron Patterson, 281-841-0829

5 YEARS

Prime Communications, LP Naushad Kermally, 281-275-6815 Hilton Garden Inn Houston/ Sugar Land Lailani Argao, 281-491-7777

Jos. A. Bank Clothiers Mario Olmedo, 281-980-1601

6 YEARS

Brazos Valley Schools Credit Union Ruth Keogh, 281-499-6171 River Oaks Cleaners Jack Momin, 281-491-0900

9 YEARS

Greenscapes Unlimited, Inc. Marian Kozlovsky, 281-989-1887

11 YEARS

Kindred Healthcare-Southwest David Cross, 281-275-6000

Success is just around the Bend.

Fort Bend Volunteers!

FORT BEND VOLUNTEERS! WHEN

FORT BEND VOLUNTEERS!

Fort Bend County Judge Robert Hebert RETURN FORM VIA...

We Invite You To Celebrate the Spirit Of Volunteerism As We Honor The Five Winners Of The Fort Bend Volunteers Award

Thursday, October 3rd Breakfast: 7:30 - 9:30AM

WHERE

Safari Texas Ranch 11627 FM 1464 Richmond, TX 77407

REGISTER and PAY online at www.fortbendchamber.com

Cancellations must be made 48 hours prior to event date for a full refund to be issued

EMAIL David Crowl

david@fortbendcc.org 281.491.2497

MAIL Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd.

Sugar Land, TX 77478

August 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

FAX

ATTN: David Crowl 281 . 491 . 0112

www.FortBendChamber.com

12 YEARS

Tarantino Properties David Sutton, 713-974-4292

13 YEARS

City of Missouri City Edward Broussard, 281-403-8690

Milestone Member 15 YEARS

Hamre’s Kitchen & Bath Remodeling Jamie Hamre, 281-494-9200

16 YEARS

Brooks & Sparks, Inc. Frank Brooks, 281-578-9595

19 YEARS

Wells Fargo Bank Rey Diano, 281-208-6222

21 YEARS

Fort Bend County Women’s Center Vita Goodell, 281-344-5750

22 YEARS

Fort Bend ISD Nancy Porter, 281-634-1102

24 YEARS

State Farm Insurance Richard Stegall Richard Stegall, 281-491-1111

Milestone Member 35 YEARS Flexicore of Texas Ben Carson, 281-437-5700

For membership information, contact: Jan-Michael Jenkins 281-491-0218 jan@fortbendcc.org

www.FortBendChamber.com

SAVE THE DATE AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

Business and Professional Division

Infrastructure Division

Glenn Smith’s Top 10 Marketing Trends June 19, 2013 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm

Missouri City Infrastructure Update with Ed Broussard

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce

September 26, 2013 • 7:30 am – 9:00 am

445 Commerce Green Blvd.

City Centre at Quail Valley

Sugar Land, TX 77478

2880 La Quinta Dr.

SEPTEMBER

Missouri City, TX 77459

Governmental Relations Division Governmental Relations Division

2013 State of the City: Rosenberg

83rd Legislative Session Wrap Up with Senator’s Joan Huffman & Glenn Hegar

September 30, 2013 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm

September 9, 2013 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm

Richmond, TX 77407

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

UPCOMING EVENTS

Safari Texas Ranch 11627 FM 1464

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd.

Sugar Land, TX 77478

OCTOBER

Education Division

Community Resources Division

State of the Schools 2013 Sugar Land Marriott

County Judge Hebert’s Fort Bend Volunteer Breakfast

16090 City Walk,

October 3, 2013 • 7:30 am – 9:30 am

Sugar Land, TX 77479

Safari Texas Ranch

September 13, 2013 • 11:00 am – 1:00 pm

11627 FM 1464

For membership information, contact:

Richmond, TX 77407

Jan-Michael Jenkins 281-491-0218

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H August 2013

33

Ribbon Cuttings

R. Stahl, Inc.

13259 N. Promenade Blvd.

Stafford, TX 77477 www.rstahl.com 713-792-9300

Santikos Palladium AVX Entertainment

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

7301 Grand Parkways• Richmond, TX 77407 www.santikos.com 281-239-4200

34

Tucanos Brazilian Grill

16535 SW Freeway, Suite 2001 Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.tucanos.com 281-277-5477

Chocolate Drop Café

9029 S. Highway 6, Suite 190 Missouri City, TX 77459 www.chocolatedropcafe.com 281-972-9908

August 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

www.FortBendChamber.com

Revolution Studio 2125 Lone Star Dr. Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.revolution-studio.com 281-313-0662

R

evolution Studio® is revolutionizing the idea of indoor cycling. Our 50-minute group classes are perfect for anyone looking to have fun, and mentally escape the day while getting an intense, invigorating cardio workout with proven results. By incorporating light weights and core strengthening movements into the ride, you will simultaneously tone your upper body, back, and abdominals. Owners Mitch and Kim Syma wanted to create a sanctuary for their riders, a place where they could receive an incredible workout for both body and mind.

Revolution Studio® offers flexible pricing options with

no contracts or initiation fees. A unique reservation system allows clients to select specific bikes much like reserving seats on an airplane. Client’s determine when they will go, where they will sit and with whom.

With numerous classes available to choose from each week, riders are sure to find a class at the perfect time.

Classes can be scheduled with ease and begin as early as 5:30 am and run as late as 7:15 pm. Classes are designed for all fitness levels and can be tailored to the individual rider.

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

www.FortBendChamber.com

Whataburger 340 Highway 6 Sugar Land, TX 77478 www.whataburger.com 281-494-4298

W

hataburger proudly serves a variety of menu items from delicious chicken sandwiches to breakfast items, but we’re best known for our burgers.

Whataburgers are made to order using 100 percent pure, never-frozen beef and served on a big toasted five-inch bun, just like the first Whataburger was made in 1950.

While some things about our restaurants have changed since 1950, we are still focused on providing an exceptional experience for each and every customer, every time. Our customers look forward to it, and friendly service has always been part of our culture. We like to say “we’re hardworking people serving hardworking people.”

www.FortBendChamber.com

While keeping those important constants, we also listen to our customers and develop menu items to appeal to our diverse customer base – we even calculated we offer 36,864 combinations for customers to choose from when deciding on a meal. Whataburger is continuously evolving as part of our commitment to freshness, quality and our customers, but we always preserve the company’s core spirit of loyalty and service.

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H August 2013

35

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

This is your opportunity to enhance your value personally, professionally and as a community stakeholder. This ten-month program consists of monthly sessions and retreats covering a variety of topics.

36

“The Leadership Forum allowed me to gain valuable insight into many different aspects of Fort Bend County. The relationships, networking opportunities & leadership skills I gained were priceless. I highly recommend the program to anyone looking to enhance their careers.”

-Himesh Gandhi, Sugar Land City Councilman “In 2012, Classic will graduate itʼs fourth executive from Leadership, and I intend to send at least one employees every year...more if I can spare them! I love this program so much that I am now the primary sponsor. It is a terrific program exemplifying all the best about Fort Bend County and the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce. If you want to build personal and business relationships that last, while learning about the unique, special place we live, then enroll in Leadership... it works!”

-Don Kerstetter, Owner, Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land “It all adds up. Year after year, Fort Bend Leadership Forum provides consistent return on investment for our participants, businesses and our community.”

-Christopher Breaux, Principal, Whitley-Penn, L.L.P. As a newcomer to Sugar Land, I was so grateful to find that the Fort Bend Chamber had a leadership program. Having participated in the Class of 2010, the program exceeded my expectations. Besides having a diverse class mix, the speakers were outstanding and I learned more about Fort Bend than anticipated. Now I have a greater base of colleagues to access thanks to the camaraderie of my Leadership class!

-Karen Daly, City of Sugar Land, Assistant City Manager

For information please contact David Crowl at 281.491.2497 or David@fortbendcc.org

August 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

www.FortBendChamber.com

S DIRECT AU XA

August

R TA

SCH

OL

TO

TE

CONGRATULATIONS! ARSHIP S

13

Dominique Edwards

One Thousand Dollars and 00/100

Dominique Edwards ATTENTION: Fort Bend High School Seniors Register now and win a

1,000

$

SCHOLARSHIP!

Complete details and forms at

www.fortbendfocus.com

Congratulations to Dominique Edwards, a senior at George Ranch High School, for being selected as Texas Direct Auto’s “Scholarship Star” for August!

Tom Daigle, General Sales Manager, presents the $1,000 scholarship. At George Ranch High School, Dominique is a member of National Honor Society (NHS), Principal Assistant Committee (PAC), theatre production and Lariettes.

She has received numerous awards for academic achievements including Distinguished Student, Miss Academic and AP Scholar. Dominique volunteers her time as Assistant Director over her church’s nursery and as an NHS tutor.

After high school, Dominique plans to attend University of Texas in San Antonio to pursue a degree in Accounting.

Dominique was selected as part of Texas Direct Auto’s commitment to educational excellence through the “Scholarship Stars” program. Application details are listed at www.fortbendfocus.com.

DIGITAL

STUDIO

VIDEOS

Behind the Scene

By Elsa Maxey

Executive Producer Star Video Productions

Imprint sets future direction of Star Video Successful business woman Elsa Malakoff Maxey is a multi-talented professional. With an expertise in communications backed with a Texas Associated Press award, she contributes stories to the Fort Bend Star as a reporter, the Fort Bend Business Journal and her accounts often show up in a variety of publications. As Executive Producer of Star Digital Studios a/k/a Star Video Productions, Malakoff oversees, manages and does hands-on video production work on a variety of the outputs of the video company.

Maxey assumed the role of Executive Producer shortly after the company’s founder, Sherry Carter, died in October 2011. Carter was an accomplished professional in the industry, and together with Maxey they had an extensive work history having at one time launched a joint business venture for Lone Star TV productions with program coverage throughout the state.

Last year when Maxey took over the management of the video business, it was during her first year that she expanded the

Keynote Speakers

IO

S

ES S DIVIS

Fort Bend County Judge Robert Hebert

HIST O

N OW G DIV FESS

IO LS

YO U

PRO

NA

G

I

SI

S

ON

RO

BER

DI

TxDOT Executive Director Phil Wilson

S&BI Presented by

DOWN T RIC

EN

N

Save The Save The Date!

Date!

N

BU

IN

VISION

www.CFBCA.org

38

Maxey, who has earned state awards for video productions, shares inspiring words to those unsure about their next business steps. “If you’re not making mistakes, you’re not doing anything. In the video industry, many times it’s the mistakes that give birth to some of the best creativity.”

With a bachelor of arts from the University of Texas and a master’s degree from the University of Houston in areas outside operating a business, Maxey’s dedication is showing and she credits the supportive community for the company’s success. In the end, Maxey’s advice: If you have a strong concept relating to any skill with a beginning and end, apply it to building a business and savor its success.

Maxey’s past work experience includes serving as a manager with the HoustonGalveston Area Council, Public Relations Director of Mercy Hospital in south Texas, having initiated the framework of a communications program in a municipality, and being on-the-air talent in the radio and television industry for news programming.

Ambassadors Congressman HonoraryHonorary Ambassadors Congressman and Nancy Olson, Invite YouTo To Pete andPete Nancy Olson, Invite You

EAR A R SH EA

FU

EST. 1910

L

company’s target market and was awarded a service agreement by the Spring Branch Independent School District in Houston to handle its graduation video productions at the Don Coleman Coliseum. Earlier this year, Maxey also earned the opportunity to further expand the company’s reach with the coverage of the Stafford Municipal School District’s graduation, the first ever at Constellation Field. These additions are due in part to the continuation of Star Digital Studios’ graduation video productions of the Fort Bend Independent School District, held at the Toyota Center over the past several years and initiated

by Carter in 2003.

Maxey works with a team of talented, artistic freelancers, and together they develop and create content for completed and professionally produced video products. Interns enrolled in a Los Angles, California-based company are now also a part of the wide variety of the studio’s video production earning them exposure to the field with experience outside book and skill training.

State Senator Glenn Hegar, Dist. 18

Presented by State Farm– 4 PDHs Janice Vyoral Available State Farm– for P.E.s Presented by11:00 to 6:00 Janice Vyoral VIP Reception at 11 am (Including Ethics) Just aInformation, few spots left in S&B INFRASTRUCTURE, LTD. Contact Rachelle Kanak For More the Class of 2013-14.

11:00 to 6:00 281-380-3395 or rkanak@cfbca.org Sept. 12, Rosenberg Civic Center

To Register or Sponsor, Call 281.342.5464.

Contact Jeremy at VIP Reception at 11 am jheath@cfbca.org.

Contact Rachelle Kanak For More Information, 281-380-3395 or rkanak@cfbca.org

August 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H August 2013

39

Global investors seek business in Texas GLOBAL, continued from page 23

Sugar Land 8410 Hwy 90A Stafford 3531 S. Main Missouri City 3600 FM 1092 (713) 388-7600

seek capital to grow and expand. Readily available commercial loans come few and far between. With the advantage of an investor with international reach, Texas businesses can benefit from exporting also.

As the No. 1 export state in the nation for the 11th consecutive year, Texas, with over $264.7 billion, continues to be the leader in international trade.

In fact, more than 90 percent of all Texas exporters are small businesses— and their numbers continue to grow.

With its unique strategic location, and a combination of the largest U.S. rail and road infrastructure, the most U.S. ports of entry, a multilingual workforce twice the national average, a vibrant international banking center, a diplomatic hub with a Consular Corps representing some 90 nations, as well as a concentration of corporate and financial resources, Texas is truly a global trade powerhouse.

FrostBank.com

FREE TELEPHONE SYSTEM

Show Us Your Telephone Bill!

For about the same price you’re paying AT&T, Comcast, Verizon, Windstream or any telephone company, we can install a complete VoIP telephone system.

• Free Maintenance & Programming • Free Domestic LD • Voice Mail to E-mail • Connect Multiple Offices • Auto Disaster Routing • IT Support Available — (optional) Connect Multiple Offices Caller ID Name / Number E-Fax / DID / Voicemail to Email 40

CALL FOR A QUOTE

Business Telephone Systems www.prostarcomm.com Voice Data Video

• • Serving Fort Bend County & Houston - Since 1992 Sales • Service • Intallation

ProStar Communications is an Authorized Panasonic Dealer August 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

Business Telephone Systems

281-265-3500 One Call, One Source, UNLIMITED SOLUTIONS System Moves • Voice Data Cabling Surveillance Cameras

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.

Be prepared for the health care act’s “play or pay” provision The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010’s shared responsibility provision, commonly referred to as “play or pay,” is scheduled to take effect Jan. 1, 2014. It doesn’t require employers to provide health care coverage, but it in some cases imposes penalties on larger employers that don’t offer coverage or that provide coverage that is “unaffordable” or that doesn’t provide “minimum value.”

A “Large Employer” is smaller than you might think - A large employer is one with at least 50 full-time employees, or a combination of full-time and part-time employees that’s “equivalent” to at least 50 full-time employees (FTE’s). The nondeductible penalties for those who must pay generally are $2,000 per full-time employee excluding the first 30 employees, on employers with more

receiving a premium tax credit, will pay the lesser of $3,000 for each employee receiving a premium credit or $2,000 for each full-time employee, excluding the first 30 employees.

2013 Sets the Baseline - Although the shared responsibility provisions don’t take effect until 2014, employers will use information about the workers they employ in 2013 to determine whether they’re subject to the provisions and face the potential for penalties in 2014. The rules are complex, so be sure to learn whether you might be subject to penalties and what steps you can take to avoid, or at least minimize, them.

Alan Sandersen is a columnist for the Fort Bend Business Journal and is a Partner with Sandersen Knox & Co, L.L.P., Certified Public Accountants. He can be reached at 281-2423232. www.sktx.com. H

than 50 employees that do not offer coverage and have at least one full-time employee who receives a premium tax credit. Employers with more than 50 employees that offer coverage but have at least one full-time employee

Tax Accountants • Auditors Consultants to Business Member: American Institute of Certified Public Accountants

Our professionals proudly serve Fort Bend & the Greater Houston area.

Alan Sandersen

• Taxation • Tax Controversies • Litigation Support • Audits of Commercial and Governmental entities • Construction Companies

130 Industrial Blvd., Suite 130 Sugar Land, TX 77478

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H August 2013

281-242-3232 www.sktx.com

41

FORT BEND / K ATY 5th ANNUAL KATY AREA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL GOLF TOURNAMENT Wednesday, June 19th, 2013 • Weston Lakes Country Club • Texas

Tom Gunnell, Lars Gustafson, Henry Dibrell and Frank Blackwood

John Jenkins, Corey Ferguson, Chad Craft and Kevin Drury

Alton Frailey, Bill Moore, Rick Blan and Peter McElwain

Adam Scmidt, Mark Craft, Tony Orlando and Kenyon Carroll

Byron Dean, Alwyn Reyes and Jason Culpepper

Brian Gonzales, Pat Poole, Bill Drohan and Jim Gorski

Wade Adams, Ben Scott, Gregg Clark and Gail Hasselgren

John Martin, Connie Warner, Shelly Barrett and Brian Munger

Brian Haines, Bill Myers, Leonard Merrell and Jerry Edmonson

BIG SHOTS

SPECIAL FEATURE - FORT BEND COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Kim K. Forrest, DDS, MS Sam A. Winkelmann, DDS, MS and Associates

23922 Cinco Village Center Blvd. Suite 250 Katy, Texas 77494

(281) 392-4571 • www.ForrestOrtho.com A Sugar Land Tradition... Renewed

For information on membership options, contact Kelly Buettner in our Sales and Marketing office today!

281.494.9131 x134 • www.sugarcreekcctexas.com 420 Sugar Creek Boulevard Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H August 2013

43

Accounting Terri L Sibbet, CPA 713-234-0618 Office Affordable, Accurate, Timely -Bookkeeping, Payroll, Payroll Tax Returns - Quickbooks, Financials, Sales & Property Tax Returns -Tax Return Preparation.

Advertising Fort Bend / Katy 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.

SERVICE DIRECTORY

Alterations & Tailoring

44

LIZ’S TAILOR and ALTERATIONS 281-242-3193 www.lizstailor.com 3626 Highway 6 South (In the Luby’s/Big Lots Shopping Center) Sugar Land, TX 77478 Our Alterations Service for Ladies and Gentlemen include: Full resizing of your dress or prom to make a perfect fit; hem pants & jeans, taper in and out; shorten jacket sleeves and zipper changes. We fix your clothes at affordable prices. We offer professional tailoring. We will make your clothes from a catalog or pattern. For one-day or immediate service, please call Liz at 281-242-3193. We offer free estimates or visit us at www.lizstailor.com or email us at liz@lizstailor. com.

Repair and Vehicle Detailing 281-499-1126 www.charltonsbodyrepair.com Chuck Charlton, 1131 Staffordshire @ 5th Street, Stafford, Texas 77477, Charbody@aol.com, 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 P - 281-980-4440 F - 281-261-0048 www.colonyoneauto.com Are you tired of searching for a AAA approved auto repair center? Colony One Auto Center is a familyowned and operated business, having serviced more than 210,000 vehicles since 1991. The BBB has rated Colony One Auto Center its highest score, capturing an A+ rating. Angie’s List has designated Colony One Auto Center its highest rating as a “Super Service Provider,” also garnering an A+ rating. Colony One Auto Center has a complete state-of-the-art automotive repair and maintenance facility. Your search is finally over. Bring your vehicle to Rod Tate at 1131 Dulles Avenue, Stafford, 77477.

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 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!

Auto Repair / Maintenance Economic Development Auto Central-Automotive Service & Sales 281-499-9684 www.autocentral.biz AutoCentral@verizon.net. 2526 Fifth Street, Stafford, Texas 77477, Fax: 281-499-0183, Fast, Friendly and professional automotive repair. ASE Blue Seal Certified, State Inspection Station, Diesel Repair, Open Monday-Friday 7-6pm. Saturdays by Appt. only.

Charlton’s Auto Body

The Katy Area Economic Development Council (Katy Area EDC) www.KatyEDC.org 281-396-2200 The Katy Area conomic Development Council (Katy Area EDC, a 501 (c) 6 non-profit corporation, is a full service economic development corporation representing the Katy ISD area (Katy Area). Katy Area EDC : recruits new businesses, helps retain and expand existing businesses, helps create new businesses, facilitates the construction of business infrastructure and helps improve the quality of place and quality of life of the Katy Area.

August 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

Employment Services Carlton Staffing www.carltonstaffing.com swhou@carltonstaffing.com. 10707 Corporate Dr., #101, Stafford, TX 77477. Need a job? Have an open position that you can’t fill? Carlton Staffing can help.

At Carlton Staffing, we make connections that work!

Carlton Staffing is proud to be a local company that focuses on quality over quantity. We have been in business for more than 30 years providing temporary, temp-to-hire, direct hire and payrolling services.

Catering Salata www.mysalata.com 2170 Town Square Place, Sugar Land, Texas 77479.

832-886-4582. Salata is a fresh and unique way to eat healthy and create your own freshly prepared hand tossed salad or salad wrap. Offering over 50 toppings of fruits and vegetables with the option to add chicken or seafood. Salata signature dressings made in house. We cater and deliver for any occasion including business meetings or training sessions. In a hurry? Go to mysalata.com and we’ll have your order prepared and ready to go. We are conveniently located in town square across from the Marriott and in the corridor of the Coca-Cola/ Minute Maid building. We are attached to Lone Star parking garage with free parking. For catering service contact Andrea Fidanza (cell) 337-534-3924 or Afidanza@mysalata.com.

Fax: 832-886-4591, Email: Sugarland@mysalata. com.

Country Clubs & Golf Courses Quail Valley Golf Club 281-403-8518 (Direct) 281-403-5910 (Golf Shop) www.golfquailvalley.com Quail Valley Golf Course offers 36 holes of championship golf, a full practice facility, lessons and a fully stocked golf shop. The Missouri City Community Center at Quail Valley Golf Course hosts the Bluebonnet Grille at the 37th Hole, multiple event rooms as well as the 300 seat Magnolia Ballroom. Quail Valley Golf Course and the Missouri City Community Center are the perfect sites for your next meeting or big event. For more information visit www.golfquailvalley.com Quail Valley Golf Course 2880 La Quinta Dr. is located at Missouri City, TX 77459.

To Advertise Call Barbara J. Carlson at 281-690-4204

Floral Flowers By Tiffany LLC 281-208-8681 www.FlowersByTiffanyStafford.com 13230 Murphy Road, Suite 400, Stafford, TX 77477.

281-208-8681. 2011 CMUS Power Award Winner – Internet Customer Service Award. Beautiful Flowers for all occasions, Weddings, Events, Funerals, Plants, Fruit & Gourmet Baskets. Member of the Better Business Bureau and Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce. Mention the Fort Bend Business Journal for a special discount.

Foundations / Sprinklers Root Wall Pro 832.776.2338 www.RootWallPro.com 3346 East T.C. Jester D-47, Houston, TX 77018. Stop!

Before you uproot your mature trees as the solution to your foundation issues, call us! Simply adding peers to a faulty foundation is a misguided, incomplete solution when trees are also a part of the puzzle. One needs to also address mature tree roots. We can handle any size job in solving deep root foundation structure issues. Adding a deep root watering systems to your sprinkler system or any Root Wall Pro foundation watering system is crucial. With more than 20 years experience, Root Wall Pro offers the perfect solution to faulty foundations with our perfected barrier system and root watering system. Keep your mature trees (at a distance from your home) that add value to often your biggest investments--your home and business. Root Wall Pro is endorsed by Randy Lemmon and other local engineers. We also offer financing. We’ll alleviate your worries and give you the solution you need. Call us. You won’t be disappointed and will see the results quickly!

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.

Magazine

Glass Block/Showers/Windows South Texas Glass Block 281-355-8882 www. stglassblock.com We offer complete glass block solutions, providing excellent service and product to all of our customers.

We have been in business since 1995, serving the entire Houston and surrounding areas. Our excellent workmanship is unmatched both in the commercial and residential arena. No job is too big for South Texas Glass Block.

Home Health Care Texas State Healthcare & Hospice Care 281-208-4344 or 979-323-7099 www.txstatehealthcare.com What we do: Skilled Nursing - Home Health Aide Physical/Speech/Occupational Therapies - Medical Social Worker assisting with durable medical equipment needs and helping to provide Resources & Services in the Community - Wound Care - Catheter Care - Diabetic Care Lab Services - IV Therapy and more... “Hometown Nurses Helping Hometown People” Insurance Agencies Prince Benefits Group 713-884-8399 www.princebenefitsgroup.com Partner with a strategically uncompromising and experienced insurance agency that specializes in employee benefits. We help you attract the right talent and keep them happy! The jewel in our crown of insurance is group insurance but we offer the complete spectrum of benefits for groups and individuals: health, dental, life, vision, disability, 401k, general liability, property, worker’s compensation, umbrella, commercial auto, COBRA administration, HR compliance, etc. Prince Benefits Group provides your company the leverage it needs to get what it needs.

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. 281-3415060, Fax 281-341-5558.

Jewelers Gold Connection Jewelers 281-344-9900 • We Buy Gold www.goldconnection.net We are a full-service jewelry store in your neighborhood. We offer diamonds, gold and silver jewelry and watches. Repairs are done on our premises. Custom design is our specialty. We offer front door parking for your convenience. Our hours are M-F from 10:00-6:00 pm and again on Sat from 10:00-4:00 pm. We are located at 206 Hwy 90A, Richmond, 77406. Come see our fabulous inventory!

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com Fort Bend’s ONLY business publication. Reaching over 10,000 businesses monthly. The place to advertise to reach the vital Fort Bend County business community.

Fort Bend Focus - 281-690-4242 Pearland Focus - 281-690-4242 Focus on Women - 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.

Nature’s Pest Control Nature’s Own Pest And Lawn Service 281-656-2847 www.naturesownpestcontrol.org 18035 W. Little York Rd. Ste. F, Katy, TX 77449. Using an exterminator that will practice the safest and most natural techniques for pest control can be reassuring and August be the only consideration for those who are determined to live green in every way. Natural pest control with the best guarantee in the business. At Nature’s Own, we will eradicate your bugs and make your home bug free once again. Don’t lose any sleep over these pesky bugs. Call Nature’s Own today. Mention Fort Bend Business Journal and receive a special discount.

SERVICE DIRECTORY

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.

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.

Open MRI Upright MRI of Sugar Land 281-494-0505 www.mri911.com CLAUSTROPHOBIC? Upright MRI is the only True OPEN MRI in Sugar Land. We scan patients standing, sitting, or lying down. For the first time, patients can be scanned in weight-bearing postures and in their position of pain. It is ideal for patients who have difficulty lying down due to respiratory or cardiac problems. Mention this ad and receive $25 off your first scan. 2655 Cordes Drive #150, Sugar Land, 77479. Open Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H August 2013

continued, on page 44

12 MONTHS LISTING FOR ONLY $300 45

Optometrists

Real Estate / Residential

Elissa R. Wedemeyer O.D., FCOVD, F.A.A.O 281-499-2600 www.drwedemeyer.com 6026 Hwy. 6 Missouri City, TX 77459.

Therapeutic Optometrist; Visual Perceptual / Binocular Therapy; medical management of eye infections and diseases. The office has a large selection of fashion frames.

Pharmacies Ed’s Pharmacy 281-499-4555 Ed Sziy, 3740 Cartwright, Missouri City, TX 77459, Fax: 281-499-7088.

Physicians

SERVICE DIRECTORY

Immunizations & Drug Testing IMU Southwest, The IMUnization Clinic 281-313-7468 www.houstonvaccines.com houstonvaccines@gmail.com. 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 onsite clinics available for churches and corporations.

We are now in network with Blue Cross & Blue Shield.

46

Colliers International, formerly 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 & State Highway 6, Fax: 281-4943227, Brokerage, Development, Investment & Tenant Representation, 25 years experience in Fort Bend.

Riverstone Development Co. 281-499-8700 www.riverstone.com tomw@johnsondev.com. Tom Wilcox, 4855 Riverstone Blvd, Missouri City, Texas 77459, Fax: 281-499-8704, Luxurious waterside living in Fort Bend from $200s to the many millions.

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.

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.

Remodeling / Outdoor Living

Printers / Graphics 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.

Rain Gutters Sugar Land Rain Gutters & Remodeling 713-204-4664 SugarLandRainGutters.com Sales and installation of seamless rain gutters; repairing and cleaning out existing gutters and repairing fascia boards. Free Estimates and a 15 year warranty with all new installations. Also offering Organic Gardens and Landscaping by a degreed horticulturist. (Consulting and design fees apply). Locally owned and operated in Sugar Land, Texas.

Living Improvements - 281-499-7000 www.living-improvements.com AWARD WINNING - 2010 & 2011 Houston’s BEST “Outdoor Living Space” Living Improvements’ commitment to excellence makes us the perfect fit for your building needs. We have over 200 years cumulative in-house experience in the remodeling and construction industry making us highly skilled, professional and detail oriented striving to exceed our customer’s expectations.

We feature outdoor living spaces, custom homes, interior and exterior renovations. Our commitment to excellence is just one of the reasons we have over 5,000 satisfied customers.

SERVING FORT BEND & SURROUNDING COUNTIES FOR OVER 35 YEARS.

Tree Removal / Stump Grinding / Professional Pruning and Tree Feeding R. H. Tree Service - 832-277-6947 Tree removal, stump grinding, pruning and tree feeding are procedure specific and the result can be cost prohibitive when hiring a service that does only “surface” work and lacks proper expertise.

With 20 years of experience, you can count on our consistent, reputable and professional crew. We are both insured and have excellent references. We handle all commercial and residential tree services, tree removal (no matter its height), proper procedural stump grinding, professional tree pruning and we have the experience and knowledge how to feed your trees that are undernourished or at a distressed level.

Call the professional crew that you can count on! No job is too big or too small.

Video Services Star Digital Studios 281-690-4280 www.starvideoproductions.com A full service video production studio providing all phases of video production including professional writing, videography, editing, DVD duplication, distribution; also video deposition services to the legal community. For video needed for a TV commercial, website posting, employee training, promotional DVDs, special presentations, coverage of live events/trade shows, or corporate videos, give us a call. If you are interested in something you do not see on our website, let us know and we’re ready to accommodate your needs!

Water Softening and Purification Systems R & S Water Service 281-416-9353 www.rswaterservice.com info@rswaterservice.com R & S Water Service is a Full Service Licensed Water Treatment Company. We offer Cost-Effective and Long-Lasting Water Softeners. We are 30%-50% less expensive than other water softening companies and we offer the best customer service even after the sale! Sales, Service and Installation of Water Softeners, No Salt Conditioners, Reverse Osmosis Systems, Well Water Systems, Ambassador II ChemFree Iron Filter Systems and Chloramine Removal Systems. We also can test and repair Back Flow devices. For other services or any questions please contact us. 281-416-9353 or info@rswaterservice. com. **List with the BBB. **Licensed members of the TWQA Texas Water Quality Association.

Please call Barbara J. Carlson at 281-690-4204 or 281-687-9426.

August August 2013 2013 H H Fort Fort Bend Bend // Katy Katy Business Business Journal Journal

FOOD, DRINK, ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE 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.

Aling’s Hakka Chinese Cuisine Welcome to Sugar Land’s first Hakka Chinese Restaurant! Using family recipes, Chefs Lin Motiwala and Gary Yan present this unique “Chindian” cuisine, a delicious fusion of both Chinese and Indian cookery (without the curry undertones). From savory steamed or pan fried Dumplings to traditional Indian-style Hakka dishes, as prepared in Bombay/Pune, like Chicken Lollipop, as well as American Chop Suey, each dish is prepared using the freshest ingredients to bring you a dining experience like no other. Lunch specials start at $6.95 for a 4 course meal.

Open Tuesday - Sunday. Lunch: 11am-3pm (Tues-Fri). Dinner: 5:30pm10pm (Tues-Thurs & Sun) and 11pm (Fri & Sat). Aling’s is located in the First Colony Commons shopping center at Hwy 59 and Williams Trace Blvd. between Home Depot and Office Depot. 15425 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land.

Call 281-242-0432. www.alingshakka.com. $$ 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. A three course prix fixe lunch for $12.95 to Mussles Marinieres, Roasted Red Snapper or Filet Mignon with Cognac Peppercorn Sauce. No need to go to Houston or into Sugar Land for a truly high quality dining experience... you will easily find it at AURA (without ‘Big Restaurant’ prices!) at Township Square - Missouri City. Lunch Mon-Sat 11-2. Dinner Mon-Thurs 5-9 and Fri-Sat 5-10. Please call for Reservations &/ or Catering ~ 3400 FM 1092, 81-403-AURA (2872). $$ • WB BLU Restaurant | Lounge (New Listing) BLU boasts a globally influenced, Euro-Asian menu from acclaimed Executive Chef Junnajet “Jett” Hurapan.

With a diverse background that spans cuisine from Thailand to New American and Mediterranean, Chef Jett’s dinner menu offers an extensive array of both small and larger plates perfect for sharing. Looking for a great deal, come enjoy an incredible three-course lunch menu for $12 Tues - Fri, and $4 happy hour menu Tues - Sun. BLU recently started a Live Jazz Sunday Brunch from 11am to 3pm! Visit www.blusugarland. com ~ 2248 Texas Drive - 281.903.7324. $$ • 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) 281-3956746. www.candelaris.com. $ • FB 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. 281-494-9087. wwww.fernandosrestaurants. 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. 281-240-3060. $ • 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.

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H August 2013

47

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

2pm, Sat Closed, Sun 12-3pm. Dinner Mon-Thurs 5-9:30pm, Fri 5-10pm, Sat 4-10pm, Sun 5-9pm. Phone: 281-277-9292. 12000 Southest Freeway, Meadows Place, TX, 77477, www.TradicaoSteakhouse.com. $ • WB Salata (New Listing)

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 Grill. Join us for a wonderful culinary adventure featuring fine prime beef, chops, fresh seafood, soups, sandwiches, salads, and outstanding wine selection. Open lunch & dinner - Monday-Thursday 11:00-10:00pm, Friday 11:00-11:00p.m., Saturday 4:00-11pm, Sunday 10:00-9:00pm, & Sunday Brunch 10:00-2:00pm. Happy Hour 4:00-7:00pm. 1550 Lake Pointe Parkway, Sugar Land • Call 281-491-2901. www.PostOakGrillSugarland.com $$ • FB Tradicao Brazilian Steakhouse Tradicao Brazilian Steakhouse is the best new steakhouse in Fort Bend. Tradicao, pronounced Tra-dee-son, was named after the Brazilian word for “tradition” and founded on the idea to continue this traditional way of grilling. They are a family owned and operated churracaria whose goal is to make sure your dining experience is one you will never forget. Their prixe fixe menu includes 14 cuts of perfectly grilled meats brought to your table side, a large salad bar and hot sides. Tradicao would like to invite you to come join them, sit back and relax. Lunch Mon-Fri 11am-

“The Next Generation Salad Bar” offers tossedto-order salads and wraps created from a selection of nearly 50 fresh ingredients including an array of lettuces, vegetables, fruits, cheeses, seeds, nuts, chicken and seafood. All Salata’s dressings are made in-house and are available for take-home purchase. Salata provides fast and healthy meal options for lunch or dinner 7 days a week and with outdoor seating at this location. Online ordering at www.mySalata.com. Have a training session or a business meeting and can’t get out for lunch? We will be happy to cater any occasion and bring the Salata experience to you. For catering contact Andrea Fidanza (Cell) 337-534-3924 or Sugar Land store 832-886-4582. $ • FB

To Advertise Meet & Eat Food Drink Entertainment Guide Call Barbara J. Carlson at 281-690-4204 or 281-687-9426 Barbara@fortbendbusinessjournal.com

Subscribe

TODAY

ONLY

And receive the Business Journal in your mailbox for

• DBA’s • Feature Stories • Special Features • Business Columns • Fort Bend Chamber Newsletter • Land Transactions • Building Permits Mail with your check payable to: Fort Bend Business Journal 4655 Techniplex Dr., Suite 300 Stafford, TX 77477

Fort Bend/Katy

$

25

for 12 issues (1 year)

or charge my card $25 #______________________ exp:__________ Name:_____________________________________________________ Business:__________________________________________________ Address:_ _________________________________________________ City:_ _____________________________________________________ State:________________________________________Zip:__________ E-mail:__________________________________________ cut here

48

August 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

We’re taking mammograms to a whole new dimension.

3 - D MAM MOG R AM S

Now available at St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital According to the American Cancer Society, the early detection of breast cancer saves thousands of lives each year. One of the newest tools in this effort is 3-D mammography, or tomosynthesis, which is now available at St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital.

3-D mammograms allow physicians to take images from different angles, providing sharper, better quality results and a reduction in “false positives.” The new technology is recommended for women with dense breast tissue and allows physicians to view images with pinpoint accuracy in order to detect smaller tumors earlier.

See if a mammogram is the answer for you.

Call 281-637-7001 today for an appointment.

StLukesSugarLand.com Highway 59 one block north of Highway 6 at Lake Pointe Parkway | 1317 Lake Pointe Parkway, Sugar Land, TX 77478

BACK PAIN? NECK PAIN? The Spine Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is the comprehensive, coordinated option for you in Fort Bend County.

For back and neck pain, there’s only one premier choice — Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Spine Center. Whether you’ve had pain for just a few days or several long years, you’ll find everything you need to diagnose and treat your condition in a convenient location, with access to premier spine specialists and a complete range of treatment options.

Getting started is easy. We will guide you through a customized treatment plan, with expedited access to world-class neurologists, neurosurgeons, orthopedic spine surgeons and interventional pain specialists.

Plus, physical therapy, occupational/hand therapy, and the most advanced imaging and surgical technologies in the world are available on-site.

Stop enduring pain. Call or email today and begin your personal treatment plan. 281-313-BACK (2225) or SpineCenter@tmhs.org.

16655 Southwest Freeway • Sugar Land, Texas 77479 281-313-BACK (2225) • MethodistSugarLand.com

facebook.com/MethodistSugarLand @MethodistSLHosp