December 2010 - The Business Lifestyle Magazine Online Edition

Fort Bend/Katy

Volume 28 • No. 12

THE BUSINESS LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

DECEMBER 2010

At Home for the Holidays...

The Gift of Home Healthcare INSIDE STORIES

n How The Average U.S. Consumer Spends Their Paycheck n CEO Exposed: Joe Freudenberger n Spread The Word: UH Systems Are Meeting A Vital Need n Nearly 1,000 Jobs Coming to Missouri City $4.95

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

OakBend Medical Group OakBend

Medical

Group consists

of

a

community-minded group of physicians who provide services in the heart of Fort Bend County. We offer many locations for the convenience of our patients.

Our services are provided by excellent physicians whose specialties include Family Practice, Infectious Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ear Nose and Throat, Geriatrics, Weight Loss, Home Visits, Nursing Home Visits and Hospice Care.

We currently have office locations serving: New Territory • Sugar Land • Richmond Rosenberg • Williams Way

Coming Soon: Morton Road / Grand Parkway • Fulshear

Dr. John Butler • Dr. David Sycamore • Dr. Henry Garza III • Dr. Douglas Thibodeaux • Dr. James Pearce • Dr. Owen Capocyan Dr. Karen Rakers • Dr. Lorelei Capocyan • Dr. Joe Anzaldua • Dr. Irene Ejedepang-Koge • Dr. Robbyn Franklin

Physician Referral: (281) 341-4800

CO N T E N T S Fort Bend/Katy

Cover Story At Home for the Holiday... The Gift of Home Healthcare

Volume 28 • Number 12 • December 2010 For subscriptions send check for $25 to Fort Bend Business Journal

pg.

Special Feature

10

CEO Exposed: Joe Freudenberger.....................................................................

32

GENERAL MANAGER............Michael Fredrickson

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR ....................... Dean West

How The Average U.S. Consumer Spends Their Paycheck............................................. 5 New Renderings, Time Line For Minor League Baseball Stadium................................. 9 Katy Home Development Still Defying The Odds............................................................ 13 Texas Employers Add 47,900 Jobs in October............................................................... 14 Hertz and NRG Energy Inc. Sign Agreement to Begin Build-out of TEVI................... 15 Big Shots - What’s Up Doc................................................................................................... 17 Spread The Word: UH Systems Are Meeting A Vital Need............................................ 20 Nearly 1,000 Jobs Coming To Missouri City..................................................................... 30 Texas and Florida Beaches Remain Inviting And Oil-Less Getaways......................... 36 Friday Night Lights... Camera...Action!............................................................................... 46 Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame Inducts Local Cowboys....................................... 52

Monthly Columns

MARKETING CONSULTANTS................ Dottie Childs ...................................................Jerry Poscovsky ........................................................Ann Sturrock RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST.........................................Becky Hall COLUMNISTS.................................. Kolbe Curtice ............................................... Dr. Henry Garza, III ....................................................Alan Sandersen ..................................................Tim Stubenrouch CONTRIBUTORS . .......................Wayne Chandler .......................................................... Elsa Maxey ..................................Barbara Magana Robertson .............................................................Dori Wind ART DIRECTOR.................................Joey Belleza

Alan Sandersen

Tim Stubenrouch

Tax Smart Discusses

Money Talks Discusses

Real Estate Cost Segregration Can Yield Bid Deductions............... 19

End 2010 With A Successful Plan.......................... 35

Dr. Henry Garza, III

Kolbe Curtice CCIM, CLS

Medical Talks Discusses

Commercial Real Estate Discusses

New Techniques Reducing Need for Hysterectomy.................. 29

Fort Bend Commercial Real Estate Velocity Increasing............... 54

Monthly Departments Newsworthy....................................................................................................... 22-23 Fort Bend Chamber Newsletter.......................................................................... 37-44 Data Beat........................................................................................................... 48-51 Service Directory............................................................................................... 56-57 Dining and Entertainment................................................................................. 60-64 Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

PUBLISHER.................................... Beverly Carter

EDITOR ...........................................Sharon Wallingford

Inside Stories

2

4655 Techniplex Dr., Suite 300 Stafford, Texas 77477 281-690-4200 TOLL FREE 1-888-430-7478 www.fortbendstar.com Single copy $4.95

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

ON THE COVER Texas State Healthcare From bottom Left: Pootiebear, Vicky Piwonka, director of nursing, Pat and Connie Fodrie, owners, Elda Pedraza, alternate administrator, Ms. Erika Cavazos, former patient

©2010 Fort Bend Business Journal Magazine No material from this publication be copied or in any way reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

Golden Oldies Honor All Veterans

By Betty Frazier (President, Residents Association)

Jim Hoelker “Impact A Hero” organization

SSG Matthew Lammers, Veterans of the War on Terrorism

The Terrace at First Colony (an 269 Apartment, Independent Senior Living Community, located at 16900 Lexington Blvd., Sugar Land, Texas 77479, Phone Number 281-903-2003) proudly honored veterans of all conflicts past and present. About one-third of the residents are veterans, spouses, and family members of veterans.

Hon. Mayor James A. Thompson of Sugar Land was the keynote speaker and presented a history of Armistice and Veterans Day. Mayor Thompson’s actions as a 9 year airman flying C-130 aircraft in the midst of conflict reminded residents that his valiant actions matched his stirring words.

Jim Hoelker of the organization, ‘Impact a Hero,’ humbly introduced SSG Mathew Lammers. Matthew, born in Korea, demonstrated a love for his adopted homeland by defending its freedom and in the process losing both legs and a hand when an IED blew up his Hum-Vee. He now awaits new prosthetic limbs so that he can walk again.

Residents realized that they too wish to walk with Matt.

Resident Dora Zinn was celebrated being born on November 11, 1918, Armistice Day of World War I. Remembrance of courageous men and women, like ours concluded with the playing of ‘Taps’ played by Grady Manning (Fmr. Marine Corpsman).

It took a village of volunteers, residents, the Terrace management and community members to justly honor all veterans through this program. Even more importantly it took the lives of men and women valiantly lived, now remembered by pictures, medals, uniforms, and flags that once draped a loved one’s casket, to make this Veterans Day possible.

SSG Matthew Lammers, being presented a poem written and read by resident Betty Frazier

Todd Werthman, Executive Director residents Betty Tanner & Dora Zinn & Sugar Land Mayor Jame A. Thompson

Veterans Memorabilia

Veterans Memorabilia

16900 Lexington Boulevard Sugar Land, Texas 77479 Resident Grady Manning playing taps.

281-903-2000 December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

3

Editor’s Preview

by Sharon Wallingford

The Editorial Advisory Board Kolbe Curtice CCIM, CLS Managing Director – Colliers International | Fort Bend

Jacqueline Baly Chaumette President and CEO Baly Projects, LLC

Happy Holidays to all of you May your New Year be prosperous Lots of exciting things occur in our county. In this issue, we offer two legendary

Yes, our state is home to some of the

cattlemen being inducted into Hall of

world’s most prestigious universities in

Fame status, new technology, cost cutting

the world, but particular academic areas

solutions to higher education, healthcare

need improvement. Our undergraduates

choices, an update on the minor league

are below the national average in history,

ballpark for Sugar Land, and several of the

government and economics courses taken

many dining destinations that offer great

during college.

food and entertainment.

Louis Garvin President Emeritus Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce

Dee Koch Grant Officer The George Foundation

Becky Munnell President and CEO Blue Jungle Marketing

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

Tim Stubenrouch President First Community Bank

John Whitmore Whitmore Company

Healthcare issues still surround us.

As we wrap up another year of business,

Our healthcare insurance regulations are

we can see once again that Fort Bend and

subject to 58 mandates which help our state

Texas were fortunate partners. Unlike many

to rank as one of the country’s five most

of the other states and counties, Texas’ pro-

heavily regulated.

growth, low tax environment plan has

in Texas increased 40 percent in five years,

led the state to becoming an economic

the third highest rate in the nation. As a

powerhouse. Our economy has propelled

result, smaller to medium-sized employers

the state to be the 11th largest economy in

struggle to provide affordable insurance for

the world and we are expected to grow

their employees.

Before the year is over we’ll probably

2011. With a global eye focused on us, The

hear more about telecommunications taxes

Greater Fort Bend Economic Development

and deregulation, energy efficiency and

Council set a goal this year to bring 800 new

the regulation of markets, water supply

jobs within our perimeters and at the last

and groundwater and surface water rights,

count that column totaled 880.

juvenile justice and overcriminalization,

Although the state is tied for the most

property rights, tort reform, and educational

Fortune 500 companies headquartered in

issues may top the list. Make your own lists.

any state (57) with several located in our

For the moment, let’s enjoy the

county, we know we still have room to

holidays, along with visits among families

make more improvements in workforce

and friends.

We’ve

learned

the

six-year

graduation rate at Texas universities is only Contact:

about 49 percent. We’ve also learned that

Sharon K. Wallingford skwcountry@aol.com

Texas students gain only 2.9 percent of their

4

Insurance premiums

even faster than the American economy in

training.

Dean West dean@fortbendstar.com

college career.

civic knowledge over the course of their

Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

Shop locally and keep the cash registers ringing.

Sharon K. Wallingford

How the average U.S. consumer spends their paycheck

T

he average consumer has a budget that is split into a large number of monthly and yearly spending.

The average consumer spends $49,638 a year on a range of necessary and desired expenditures. These expenditures come out of an annual household income of $63,091 per year on average, before taxes. The average consumer owns 1.9 vehicles, and 67 percent of them are homeowners with loans.

Households average 2.5 people and 1.3 earners reside in each.

The largest expenditure of the average household is housing. This takes up an average 34.1 percent of the yearly budget of households. This is an average of $16,920 spent on housing. This amount includes $10,023 spent on shelter, $3,477 spent on public services and utilities, $984 spent on household operations, $639 spent on housekeeping supplies and 3.6 Percent spent on household furnishings and equipment.

The second largest expenditure for the average consumer is transportation. The cost of vehicles purchased is an average of $3,244 per year, making it 6.5 percent of the average budget. The cost of oil and gas for vehicles costs the average consumer $2,384 per year, for an average of 4.8 percent of the total yearly budget.

Combines, the cost of vehicles and their maintenance costs consumers an average of $8,758 per year. This is a total of 17.6 percent of the yearly budget.

Another large expenditure is healthcare. The average consumer spends $2,853 on healthcare each year. Another physical necessity, food, costs consumers an average of $6,133 per year. An average of $3,465 of that is spent on food that is consumed at home, and $2,668 of it is spent on food consumed away from home. Combines, the money spent on food is 12.4 percent of the entire yearly household budget.

Insurance and pensions are important financial considerations and they cost the average consumer $5,336 per year. This is a total of 10.8 percent of the annual budget. $5,027 f this, 10.1 percent of the yearly budget, is spent on social security and pension contributions. In addition, the average consumer pays an average of $309 each year, making up 0.6 of the annual budget.

Other expenditures include a yearly average of $945 spent on education, making up 1.9 percent of the annual budget. Consumers pay an average of 3.8 percent of their annual income, $1,881, on clothing and related services. Personal care items add up to $588 per year for a total of 1.2 percent of the annual budget.

Entertainment costs $2,698 yearly, making up 5.4 percent of the average consumer’s income. Purchasing reading materials makes up 0.2 percent of the average income, or $118 per year. The average consumer spends $1,821 per year on cash contributions. This makes up 3.7 percent of the consumer’s annual income.

Alcoholic drinks cost an average of $457 per year, or 0.9 percent of the budget. Tobacco and related tobacco supplies cost an average of $323 of the average consumer’s budget, for a total of 0.7 percent of the yearly income. Miscellaneous expenses make up the remaining 1.6 percent of the budget with $808 per year.

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FOR

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» approx. 1,500 sq. ft. » will subdivide » prime location » easy US 59 access

» phone & internet bundle available

John Novak 281-494-4769

December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

5

Fort Bend County to open employee medical clinic The new facility will serve employees, dependents and retirees

F

ort Bend County today announced it will open a new employee health and wellness center. The new center will be operated by Concentra, and offer primary, preventive, and wellness services exclusively to county employees, their dependents, and retirees. The new employee medical clinic is slated to open next year, delivering a range of health and wellness services direct to employees. The center will feature approximately 4,000 square feet of space, complete with exam rooms, a nurse’s intake station, and collection lab. Primary, urgent, preventive and wellness care services will be available at the health and wellness center, in addition to health risk assessments and health screenings. Services provided through the clinic will be free to all county health insurance plan members.

“Fort Bend County is committed to improving the health and well being of its employees by providing high quality and convenient access to medical services,” said Judge Bob Hebert. “By establishing an on-site health care clinic that is centralized and geared toward

providing comprehensive medical services, we hope to positively affect the overall wellness and productivity of our workforce.” The center will be staffed

by Concentra, with one overseeing physician, a Bob Hebert physician assistant, and two medical assistants.

Employees will have access to full-service health and wellness offerings with the ease and convenience of services managed through the new center. The clinic will support the Mike McCollum county’s long-term goals to improve access to quality health services, reduce overall health care spending, and promote a culture of health and wellness.

“We want to revolutionize employer health and wellness programs, delivering

comprehensive medical services directly to employees when and where they need them,” said President of Concentra Health Solutions Mike McCollum. “We are pleased to be part of an innovative health care program that works to improve the health and well-being of employees.” Counties continue to face rising health care costs, while the level of coverage available for employees diminishes. This trend is a driving force behind the need for improved health care systems in the nation.

About Concentra Concentra is a leading health care company focused on improving America’s health, one patient at a time. Through its affiliated clinicians, the company provides occupational medicine, urgent care, physical therapy, and wellness services to workers and the general public from more than 300 medical centers in 40 states. In addition to these medical center locations, Concentra serves employers by providing a broad range of health advisory services and operating more than 250 worksite medical facilities.

Through this complement of services, Concentra intends to raise the standard of health by putting individuals first, treating them with clinical excellence, and focusing on their ongoing wellness.

For more information, visit www.Concentra.com.

Whirlpool adds new spin to West Fort Bend progress

W

hirlpool Corporation, the world’s leading manufacturer and marketer of major home appliances, with annual sales of approximately $17 billion in 2009, 67,000 employees, and 67 manufacturing and technology research centers around the world, is bringing a 1.4 million-squarefoot distribution complex to the CenterPoint Intermodal Center located along US 59 in the Beasley-Kendleton area. The company markets Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, JennAir, Amana, Brastemp, Consul, Bauknecht and other major brand names to consumers in nearly every country around the world.

“This Fortune 500 company is coming to do business in West Fort Bend County,” says Commissioner Richard Morrison. “The intermodal park’s status as a free trade zone

6

will allow companies to not pay taxes on goods until they reach a final destination point.”

Some $35 million is projected to be spent on construction. The first phase includes a 750,000-square-foot Richard Morrison facility on 41 acres of the 800-acre intermodal site. This phase is expected to be completed late in 2013. The second phase is designed for an additional 750,000-square-foot to be completed in 2018. A total of 220 employees are expected to be hired.

Whirlpool has been recognized as one of the Top 500 American Companies to be listed among the greenest large companies in the

Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

United States and globally.

PulteGroup, Inc., one of the nation’s largest home builders, announced in September it has selected Whirlpool Corporation as its exclusive appliance supplier. Under this multi-year contract, Whirlpool Corporation will supply appliances to PulteGroup’s Pulte Homes, Del Webb and Centex communities in 29 states and the District of Columbia.

Founded on November 11, 1911, Whirlpool Corporation has influenced home and family life during the last century. The company is driven by the belief that everyone needs a comfortable place to call home and has a 100-year history of creating better ways of cooking, cleaning, refrigerating and storing.

Whirlpool Corporation is focused on improving lives one person, one family, one home, one community at a time.

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Promotions, reorganization address streamlined operations

S

ugar Land City Manager Allen Bogard recently announced several organizational changes intended to ensure efficient operations in providing current services during uncertain economic conditions that are expected to continue during the current budget cycle.

Community and Environmental Services Director Mike Goodrum was promoted to fill the vacant position of director of public works. As director, Goodrum will continue to have responsibility for the oversight of many of the Community and Environmental programs but will also assume the responsibility for the Public Works department.

Goodrum started with the City as a Parks and Recreation intern in 1999. He was hired as Parks and Recreation development coordinator in 2001, later serving as parks administrator, parks administrative manager and management assistant in the City Manager’s

office. He was promoted to community and environmental director in 2006 where he developed and led the City’s rental registration program.

Goodrum earned a bachelor’s degree in Allen Bogard political science from Texas A&M University and is currently working toward a master of business administration from the University of Houston.

Doug Schomburg has been promoted to City Planner to lead the City’s planning efforts. He previously served as assistant city planner, a position that will not be re-filled.

Schomburg has worked for Sugar Land since 1999, serving as a planner, senior planner, assistant city planner and interim planning director. He also served as a planner with

the City of Abilene for four years. Schomburg earned a bachelor’s degree in geography and planning (urban and regional planning) and a master’s degree in land development and management from Texas State University.

He is a member of the American Planning Association and the American Institute of Certified Planners.

The City’s new streamlined structure eliminates two management positions, building on the reduction of 11 full-time positions in October. The FY2011 budget includes the elimination of 20 positions totaling $1.4 million from the general fund. This is being accomplished through attrition (without layoffs) utilization of technology and reallocation of workload amongst existing employees.

Sugar Land experienced a decline in revenues compared to budget estimates during the last year. The main impact has been in sales tax and interest income.

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New renderings, time line for minor league baseball stadium

S

ugar Land recently began the process to select a final design-build contractor for the construction of a minor league baseball stadium northeast of State Highway 6 and U.S. Highway 59. A final decision is expected in late January.

Architectural renderings have been prepared and are available at www.sugarlandtx. gov. Construction is expected to begin in the spring of 2011 to have the stadium ready for opening day in April 2012.

Sugar Land City Council approved on Oct. 5 the lease and development agreements with Opening Day Partners, LLC to bring professional minor league baseball to Sugar Land. ODP -- an experienced communityfocused operator that emphasizes year-round community events and activities at their stadiums -- will own and operate Sugar Land’s baseball team, an Atlantic League expansion

team.

The $30 million stadium will be funded with a portion of sales tax revenues that may only be used for economic development purposes. No general fund tax dollars will be spent on the stadium. In addition to the sta-

dium serving as a community amenity, a conservative cost-benefit analysis performed by Conventions, Sports & Leisure International conservatively estimates the project will provide an annual benefit of $7.7 million, or a return of $169 million over 30 years.

STRENGTHENING

a winning team!

Dr. Mark Maffet joins Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas The team at Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas (MOST) welcomes another all-star!

Board-certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Mark Maffet brings in-depth expertise and skill in a wide range of sports medicine specialties to his new position on the MOST staff. Dr. Maffet is a leader in knee and shoulder arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery, with a long history of helping athletes of all levels return to full health following injury or illness.

Don’t live with the pain. See Dr. Maffet – or one of the other board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic specialists at MOST – and get back in the action!

Call 281-494-MOST (6678) for a personal appointment today.

1201 Brooks Street • Sugar Land, Texas 77478 • 281-494-MOST (6678) • MethodistOST.com

December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

9

Fort Bend/Katy

C

COVER STORY

At Home for the Holidays…

The Gift of Home Healthcare

hristmas is a time of giving and sharing. There are a lot of people who are alone. Perhaps you have a neighbor, a clerk in your local store you see each week, a family member who’s feeling grief of loss or someone who is sick and unable to move about freely. Some are unable to enjoy the pretty lights and decorations that are put up for Christmas all around the neighborhoods every year. Be supportive. If someone you know needs help getting out, take them for an evening ride

ft: Pootiebear, From bottom Le tor of nursing ec dir , ka on Piw Vicky Fodrie, owners Pat and Connie administrator ernate Elda Pedraza, altvazos, former patient Ms. Erika Ca

ssell Autrey

Photo by Ru

10

By Dori Wind

Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

and show them the lights. Light up their life!

We all know Christmas is mainly about children, but what about those “Seniors” who made Christmas all about “us” when we were young? Keeping the Spirit of Christmas alive in yourself, your home and your workplace will be all the festivity of the season that you and those around you will need. What better gift to give your loved ones than to stay at home during the Holidays with help from Texas State Healthcare. Spread a little Happiness this Holiday Season.

Texas State Healthcare has numerous clients who are pleased to attest to the loving, competent care they have received in their time of need: WILLIE B., Patient

My name is Willie B., and I have been a paraplegic for twenty-two years, but I could do everything for myself; I drove, I dressed myself, shopped and traveled. I lived an independent life with my wife until I had a stroke three years ago. I lost the use of my right arm and my speech. As a result, I could do nothing for myself. I was bed ridden.

It was then that Texas State Healthcare came into my life. They showed genuine care and concern when they came to our home to evaluate me. Texas State Healthcare provided professional Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Speech Therapists, Nurses and Healthcare Aides. They all treated me with patience, dignity and empathy. There was not one of them that I did not like. Because of their help, I am now able to transfer to my chair with minimum assistance. I can sit up all day. I speak better and I am able to do some of the things I use to do.

But what really proved to me that Texas State Healthcare is the best was when I developed a stage four bed sore. That is the worse bed sore you can get and can lead to an untimely death. Texas State Healthcare did not waste any time. Their caring nurses and the doctors, immediately went to work using all the latest technology and techniques and within four months, my bed sore was healed! Because of the wonderful care I have received, I wholeheartedly recommend Texas State Healthcare to all who need a helping and caring hand in these critical times.

ESTELLE W., Patient

I give thanks to my God daily that at age 94, I am still living in my own home and blessed by the sweet care provided to me by the Texas State Healthcare family. Each morning as I drink my coffee at my own kitchen table, I am blessed. Each night as I lay myself down on my own bed, I am grateful. If it were not for the medical care and personal dignity shown to me by Texas State Healthcare’s staff each week, I most likely would be in a nursing home, not living out my days in my very own home. I love em’!

JOHN F., Patient Texas State Healthcare is a good example of a company where management has recognized the need for fine personnel. Their nurses, Elma, Jamie and Cynthia, are such pleasant, caring people and their cheerful demeanor has erased all of my early fears and distaste of medical people.

ROBERT W., Patient

The staff of Texas State Healthcare are warm, caring, professional people. They help me considerably. Because of Texas State Healthcare’s help, I am able to continue to live independently as they assist me with my medical needs. I look forward to each of their visits as we all have become friends. Thank God for Texas State Healthcare!!

BOBBIE R., Patient

Last year after a nine week stay in the hospital, I returned home only to find that I no longer had home healthcare. A new agency was immediately contacted, Texas State Healthcare.

Jamie S., LVN, was sent to care for me. Let me say that she has truly been a blessing. With her expert care and tender touch, I have been able to receive the excellent care that I needed. She always has a smile on her face that makes her visits something I look forward to. Jamie will always be welcome in my home.

ALICE H., Patient

We were so lost, but now we have a home. July 5, 2010, I brought my Mother from California to Missouri City. Mom is 84 years old with dementia. I had no idea continued on page 12 December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

11

continued from page 11

how to get the kind of help she so desperately needed until I was referred to the “Texas State Healthcare.” They were so wonderful and caring, took the time to listen to me while I was so frustrated trying to find help. Their professionalism and knowledge took so much pressure off of me that I can’t thank them enough.

My mother gets the professional in home nursing care done

by Elma C., Supervising RN, and Gina, RN, along with the Physical Therapy treatments which have improved her mobility (PT’s Maryann and Tori). Since my mother has become a client of Texas State Healthcare, I don’t worry about her health as much, knowing that the nurses and PTs keep me abreast of what to expect physically and mentally.

I am truly thankful. Their administration and healthcare professionals are awesome. God bless you all and continued success.

We love you. Truly, Alice H., Patient & Jeannetta W., Daughter/ Client

JO S., Patient

Question: Where can you find a Nurse, Home/Personal Care Nurse’s Assistant, Occupational Therapist, Physical Therapist, appropriate medical equipment/ apparatus, total access to this team of professionals, continual communications between care team nurse and attending physicians?

Answer: Texas State Healthcare. In addition to professionalism, competence, and highly developed expertise, the personnel are caring, concerned and able to answer questions and exchange information. They are amicable and have a good sense of humor (they laugh at all my jokes).

Question: Where can you go to get all this….”The Best of Care?”

Answer: Texas State Healthcare. They’re…. “The Best of Care!”

Signed by Joe Smith, Patient

FELIX M., Patient

My husband, Mr. Felix M., had a hobby of wood work and he loved to cut out holiday items. He had a stroke two years ago that left him paralyzed on his right side.

Texas State Healthcare and all the staff that come to give him nursing and therapy do a great job. The nurses are great. He did not walk for about four months, but with all the nurses, his children and some friends, he was encouraged to fight. Thank you Texas State Healthcare for taking care of him and all the other patients in your care!

TRUMAN Y., Patient

Texas State Healthcare has displayed exemplary concern for my well being.

Immediately following my patient evaluation, this company took a valued and proactive role in my healthcare.

They established a custom plan for me that included professional therapy sessions that have improved the quality of my life and overall outlook. They have assisted me with the acquisition of needed equipment and have accommodated me with my special supply requirements. Their office and field staff work together attentively to make sure that I am provided the best possible care and assure that I am safe and comfortable. Having Texas State Healthcare as a provider is like having an extended family of compassionate and professional individuals which allows me to stay in the family home and be independent as possible.

“Bringing Healthcare Back Home...

Where It Belongs!”

CALL TODAY: 281-208-4344 or 979-323-7099 • Skilled Nursing • Home Health Aide • Physical • Occupational

• Speech Therapies • Medical Social Workers • Provider Services • Diabetic Management

• Injections • IV Therapy • PT/INR Monitoring

w w w.t xs t a te h e a l t h c a r e .c o m

• Lab Services • Catheter Care & specializing in WOUND CAR

Katy home development still defying the odds

By Wayne Chandler

T

he nation’s fastest growing residential area isn’t likely to slow down any time soon.

In the face of a general housing market slowdown throughout the United States, Cinco Ranch developers last month announced that they’ll build 1,200 more homes on a newly-acquired 492 acres, which should increase the number of homes in Cinco Ranch to 14,000, within three years.

And land broker Kirk LaGuarta, with partner Duane Heckmann, said they’ll market a 747-acre property just west of the new Cinco Ranch addition, called Tamarron Lakes, which they recently bought at auction.

These bold ventures come on the heels of strong building in Cross Creek Ranch and Firethorne, on the west side of the City of Fulshear.

Four other active subdivisions—Silver Ranch, Pine Mill Ranch, Westheimer Lakes North and Willow Creek Farms – are expected to make the total number of homes in this North Fort Bend/Katy area to total some 10,000 new homes within a decade. That’s the prediction by Population and Survey Analysts, College Station, who provide most of the data on which Katy and Lamar Consolidated ISD s are relying, in hopes of staying ahead of the

influx of schoolchildren.

Katy’s share of the total new homes in the Greater Houston market now is at 11 per cent, according to David Jarvis, Houston director for the real estate research firm Metrostudy.

Katy’s share four years ago was five percent.

“That shows how strong the demand has been for this corridor,” Jarvis said.

Laguarta adds, “When the rest of the world was falling apart, they (Katy development) went up. It’s by far the strongest market in the nation…”

The four other active subdivisions adding to this impact: • Silver Ranch, along Roesner Road off Katy-Gaston Rod just south of I-10. Someday it will total 1,500 home, 340 by 2014; • Pine Mill Ranch, also off Katy-Gaston Road and just west of Cinco Ranch, a 528acre community with projections similar to Silver Ranch;

• Westheimer Lakes North by Meritage Homes is on the north side of FM 1093, east of Fulshear, in the process of building 1,130 homes • Willow Creek Farms is Ryland Homes’ newest community at Pederson Road and Kingsland Boulevard, will have 600 homes by 2015. It’s mostly in Waller County, with its east tip in Fort Bend.

Economic experts claim that this whole area has been blessed by master-planned communities (MPCs).

Jeff Wiley, Greater Fort Bend County Economic Development Council’s CEO, stated: “Master planned communities are a cornerstone of Fort Bend’s success over the past 30 years. They are magnets for families that are characterized by working adults that are typically highly educated and involved citizens….MPCs offer investment protection and a high quality of life for their residents through deed restrictions and amenity-rich living environment. With three of the top 10 MPCs in the country (Cinco Ranch No. 1, Telfair No. 4 and Sienna Plantation No. 10) Fort Bend County is nationally known as a leader in master planned community development. Cross Creek Ranch, Firethorne and others will help this county remain a leader now and in the future.”

December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

13

Texas employers add 47,900 jobs in October Texas unemployment rate remained at 8.1 percent

T

exas total nonfarm employment was up by 47,900 jobs in October representing the addition of 172,800 jobs in the last year. The Texas unemployment rate remained at 8.1 percent in October and continued to trend well below the U.S. unemployment rate for October at 9.6 percent.

“Every major industry added jobs in October with notable increases in Construction employment,” said Texas Workforce Commission (TvWC) Chairman Tom Pauken. “Texas recorded its second month with an unemployment rate at 8.1 percent, the lowest rate of 2010.”

Construction industry employment increased by 8,800 positions in October, the largest monthly increase since April 2010. Mining and Logging added 1,200 jobs in October representing job growth of 30,800 over the past year. Employment in Manufacturing increased by 1,100 jobs in October for a total of 26,400 jobs added since October 2009.

“Job growth continued in October creating opportunities for Texas workers,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Ronny Congleton. “For those qualified Texas workers who remain unemployed, TWC and the 28 boards across the state stand ready to assist job seekers.”

Professional and Business Services employment increased by 4,200 jobs in October representing the addition of 50,600 jobs since last year. Employment in Education and Health Services increased by 5,400 jobs in October for a total of 38,800 jobs over the year.

“Texas employers displayed confidence by adding jobs in all industries in October, and the majority of industries are recording gains over the year as well,” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Andres Alcantar. “Staff at TWC and the 240 workforce centers across the state remain committed to providing recruit-

14

ment assistance to Texas employers and job-search services for workers.”

In October, Leisure and Hospitality employment increased 2,400 positions; Trade, Transportation and Utilities was up 1,300 jobs; Information employment increased by 1,000 jobs; and Financial Activities employment increased by 800 positions. Government experienced an increase of 19,100 jobs in October, but

remained down 4,500 positions over the year.

The Midland Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) had the lowest October unemployment rate in the state at 5.1 percent. The Amarillo MSA had the second lowest unemployment rate in October at 5.4 percent, followed by the Lubbock and College Station-Bryan MSAs at 5.9 percent (not seasonally adjusted).

Please note that the unemployment estimates for the United States and Texas in this chart are “Not Seasonally Adjusted” for purposes of comparison to the “Not Seasonally Adjusted” Metropolitan Statistical Area data.

Civilian Labor Force Estimates for Texas Metropolitan Statistical Areas Not Seasonally Adjusted (In Thousands)

United States State of Texas Abilene Amarillo Austin -Round Rock-San Marcos Beaumont-Port Arthur Brownsville-Harlingen College Station-Bryan Corpus Christi Dallas-Fort Worth -Arlington Dallas-Plano-Irving MD Fort Worth-Arlington MD El Paso Houston-Sugar Land-Baytown Killeen-Temple- Fort Hood Laredo Longview Lubbock McAllen -Edinburg-Mission Midland Odessa San Angelo San Antonio-New Braunfels Sherman-Denison Texarkana Tyler Victoria Waco Wichita Falls

C.L.F. 153,652.0 12,158.6 84.5 133.9 915.3 187.1 157.4 119.2 213.0 3,222.3 2,148.0 1,074.3 311.9 2,889.7 168.0 95.6 111.7 146.9 308.9 74.4 71.0 54.6 986.2 57.8 66.0 103.1 58.8 118.3 73.4

October 2010 Emp. Unemp.

139,749.0 13,903.0 11,193.4 965.2 79.2 5.3 126.7 7.2 852.6 62.7 167.7 19.4 139.9 17.5 112.2 7.0 196.2 16.8 2,965.3 257.0 1,975.8 172.2 989.5 84.8 281.0 30.9 2,651.7 238.0 155.3 12.7 87.8 7.8 103.7 8.0 138.3 8.6 274.1 34.8 70.6 3.8 65.7 5.3 51.1 3.5 914.4 71.8 53.1 4.7 61.3 4.7 95.3 7.8 54.5 4.3 110.1 8.2 68.1 5.3

Rate 9.0 7.9 6.3 5.4 6.8 10.4 11.1 5.9 7.9 8.0 8.0 7.9 9.9 8.2 7.6 8.1 7.1 5.9 11.3 5.1 7.4 6. 3 7.3 8.1 7.1 7.6 7.3 6.9 7.2

September 2010 C.L.F. Emp. Unemp.

153,854.0 139,715.0 14,140.0 12,165.5 11,209.2 956.3 84.8 79.5 5.3 133.7 126.6 7.1 915.3 853.4 61.9 187.0 167.6 19.4 157.1 139.9 17.2 117.7 110.8 6.9 212.0 195.3 16.7 3,228.7 2,973.6 255.1 2,154.1 1,983.3 170.8 1,074.6 990.3 84.3 311.7 281.4 30.3 2,890.4 2,654.7 235.7 168.1 155.5 12.6 95.5 87.8 7.7 111.3 103.4 7.9 148.2 139.6 8.6 305.8 271.3 34.5 75.0 71.2 3.8 70.7 65.5 5.2 54.9 51.5 3.4 986.4 915.8 70.6 57.9 53.3 4.6 65.6 60.9 4.7 102.5 95.0 7.5 59.2 54.9 4.3 118.5 110.4 8.1 74.0 68.7 5.3

Rate 9.2 7.9 6.2 5.3 6.8 10.4 10.9 5.8 7.9 7.9 7.9 7.8 9.7 8.2 7.5 8.1 7.1 5.8 11.3 5.1 7.4 6.2 7.2 8.0 7.1 7.3 7.2 6.8 7.2

October 2009 C.L.F. Emp. Unemp.

153,635.0 139,088.0 14,547.0 12,014.4 11,056.1 958.3 83.5 78.4 5.1 131.5 124.2 7.3 894.2 830.3 63.9 184.1 165.2 18.9 152.0 136.7 15.3 116.4 109.7 6.7 208.8 193.2 15.6 3,190.5 2,930.1 260.4 2,127.4 1,953.6 173.8 1,063.1 976.5 86.6 310.2 281.4 28.8 2,869.3 2,635.7 233.6 163.5 151.9 11.6 94.4 86.1 8.3 109.9 101.3 8.6 146.0 138.1 7.9 299.8 267.5 32.3 74.1 69.6 4.5 70.8 64.3 6.5 53.8 50.2 3.6 971.9 904.1 67.8 57.1 52.3 4.8 64.7 60.3 4.4 101.5 93.5 8.0 58.1 53.6 4.5 115.6 107.8 7.8 72.4 66.8 5.6

Rate 9.5 8.0 6.1 5.5 7.1 10.3 10.1 5.7 7.5 8.2 8.2 8.1 9.3 8.1 7.1 8.8 7.8 5.4 10.8 6.1 9.1 6.7 7.0 8.3 6.8 7.9 7.7 6.8 7.8

TEXAS NONAGRICULTURAL WAGE AND SALARY EMPLOYMENT SEASONALLY ADJUSTED+ INDUSTRY TITLE TOTAL NONAG. W&S EMPLOYMENT TOTAL NONGOVERNMENT** GOODS-PRODUCING

Mining & Logging Construction Manufacturing

Oct. 2010*

Sept. 2010

10,401,200 10,353,300 8,570,800 8,542,000

Oct. 2009 10,228,400 8,393,500

Sept. '10 to Oct. '10 Absolute Percent Change Change 47,900 0.5 28,800 0.3

Oct. '09 to Oct. '10 Absolute Percent Change Change 172,800 1.7 177,300 2.1

226,600 573,300 843,800

225,400 564,500 842,700

195,800 560,400 817,400

1,200 8,800 1,100

0.5 1.6 0.1

30,800 12,900 26,400

15.7 2.3 3.2

2,044,100 187,900 628,800 1,281,400 1,398,500 1,023,000 363,400 1,830,400

2,042,800 186,900 628,000 1,277,200 1,393,100 1,020,600 360,800 1,811,300

2,047,100 201,100 624,300 1,230,800 1,359,700 999,200 357,700 1,834,900

1,300 1,000 800 4,200 5,400 2,400 2,600 19,100

0.1 0.5 0.1 0.3 0.4 0.2 0.7 1.1

-3,000 -13,200 4,500 50,600 38,800 23,800 5,700 -4,500

-0.1 -6.6 0.7 4.1 2.9 2.4 1.6 -0.2

SERVICE -PROVIDING

Trade, Trans. & Utilities Information FinancialActivities Profess. & Business Svcs Education & Health Svcs Leisure & Hospitality Other Services Government

Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

Hertz and NRG Energy Inc. sign agreement to begin build-out of Texas Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Companies support nation’s first privately funded, comprehensive Electric Vehicle EcoSystem

T

he Hertz Corporation (NYSE:HTZ) has partnered with NRG Energy Inc. (NYSE: NRG) to support development of a charging infrastructure and services for electric vehicles (EV) in Texas. As part of the agreement, Hertz will support NRG’s plans to create and manage a network of NRG’s eVgotm branded charging stations across five Texas cities (Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin and San Antonio) by supplying vehicles, research and expertise to promote the adoption of EVs and plug-in electric vehicles (PHEVs) in Texas and beyond.

“Our partnership with NRG illustrates how industry players can come together to encourage electric vehicle trial and adoption. This partnership will provide consumers and businesses with an economical and convenient option for using electrical vehicles,” said Mark P. Frissora, Hertz Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “Hertz and NRG are committed to expanding the Texas model to other cities, supporting the creation of EV infrastructure platforms nationwide, a critical next step in further developing the EV infrastructure.”

The agreement is part of Hertz’s strategy to enter into partnerships that will help scale up electric vehicle and plug-in hybrid usage for the general public. As part of its partnership, Hertz and NRG will work to advance Hertz’s Texas EV fleet and jointly develop the charging infrastructure through the eVgo network.

“Hertz, with its vast network of car rental and servicing facilities across Texas and the nation, has a critical role to play in giving EV owners the ‘range confidence’ and distance driving flexibility of conventional vehicles,” said David Crane, President and CEO, NRG Energy. “As such, we are very pleased to work with Hertz as a launch partner in bringing the value of electric vehicles to Houston and soon, across Texas and the nation.”

The first eVgo high-powered rapid charging stations are expected to be installed in February 2011. Through this important contribution to the network, Houston’s EV drivers will always have a charging station within easy access along major thoroughfares within 25 miles or more of city center. The agreement also provides opportunities to expand the partnership to other markets as NRG finalizes its plans for future eVgo cities.

In addition to NRG, Hertz is forming strategic partnerships with manufacturers, charging station providers, municipalities, NGO’s, corporations and other stakeholders. To date, the company has said it will supply EVs and PHEVs from a range of manufacturers including Nissan, GM, Toyota and Mitsubishi. In Europe, Hertz EVs have already been introduced in London and Zurich, with additional cities adding EVs this autumn.

Hertz will be the first to provide a range of all-electric vehicles (EV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) and charging stations on a rental and car-sharing basis at this scale.

December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

15

Hyatt Place Houston/Sugar Land to celebrate opening with community open house 214-room hotel opens for business in Lake Pointe

H

yatt Hotels & Resorts and Woodbine Development Corporation are opening Hyatt Place Houston/Sugar Land, marking the largest Hyatt Place property to date and the 21st Hyatt Place in Texas. The community is invited to celebrate during a public Holiday Open House at the hotel, 16730 Creek Bend Drive in Sugar Land from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 9 and Friday, Dec. 10, and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11.

“The Sugar Land area has become home to many major corporations and businesses, and with its proximity to downtown Houston, it is a top destination for both business and leisure travelers,” said Michael Gleeson, general manager, Hyatt Place Houston/Sugar Land. “We are excited to introduce our hotel to the area, and we know that guests will appreciate the comfortable and functional amenities, such as free Wi-Fi, made-to-order fresh food around the clock and the StayFit@Hyatt fitness center.”

Hyatt Place Houston/Sugar Land’s location in Lake Pointe Town Center is just minutes from major businesses, including Fluor, Schlumberger, Imperial Sugar, Minute Maid and Texas Instruments. Just 20 miles from downtown Houston, the hotel also is accessible to several top tourist attractions, such as the Houston Galleria, Houston Museum District, the Houston Zoo, the Museum of Natural Science Sugar Land, the George Ranch Historic Park and many others. For sports enthusiasts visiting the area, the hotel is surrounded by several arenas for professional sports teams, including the Houston Astros, Houston Rockets and Houston Texans. The hotel is also close to shopping and dining outlets within Lake Pointe Town Center and is less than a mile from Sugar Land Town Square, a vibrant, multi-functional development featuring 1.4 million square feet of retail

16

A recent reception at the Post Oak Grille in Lake Pointe Town Center served as a Fort Bend “Hello” for Michael Gleeson, General Manager of the Hyatt Place Sugar Land. City elected officials and other community leaders greeted him and his wife at the hors d’oeuvres and cocktail affair. (l-r) Tracy and Michael Gleeson, SVP Managing Director Richard Gordon with Hyatt Hotels, and Sugar Land’s Director of Economic Development Regina Morales.

and office space.

More than 4,000 square feet of flexible, high-tech meeting/function space, a lakeside pavilion with 2,000 square feet of function space, 24/7 Guest Kitchen serving made-to-order snacks and entrees, intimate Bakery Café featuring Starbucks® specialty coffees, premium beers and wines, and a scenic lakeside setting with access to

Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

a pedestrian bridge and walking/jogging trails.

“With Sugar Land being the largest economic center of Fort Bend County and one of the fastest growing cities in Texas, we are excited to be a key addition to the community landscape,” said King Scovell, Woodbine’s director of development ventures with Hyatt. “Hyatt Place Houston/ Sugar Land provides a perfect mix of style, service and amenities that we hope will exceed guest expectations.”

The hotel is under the leadership of General Manager Michael Gleeson. He is directly responsible for managing the dayto-day operations of the hotel, including overseeing the hotel’s 45 associates and ensuring guests encounter the purposeful service for which Hyatt Place is known.

Gleeson is joined by Director of Sales Linda Cahue, who is responsible for providing sales service and support to travelers and meeting planners frequenting the Greater Houston/Sugar Land area.

Specially trained hosts are on hand to offer assistance with everything from directions to check-in to a freshly made meal.

FORT BEND Photos by Elsa Maxey

This Oakbend Medical Center group was center stage at the recent hospital-hosted evening of entertainment. (l-r) Ivan Shulman, Dr. Larry O. Baum, Oakbend Medical Center CEO Joe Freudenberger, and Vice-Chairman Marvin Marcel.

The buffet at the Texas Safari was its customary “delightful” and Kenneth Stalinsky was among those enjoying it at the recent event hosted by OakBend Medical Center.

Steve Atchison along with Bruce and Linda Webb demonstrate their enjoyment of the evening of fun at the recent Oakbend Medical Center event.

Red Cross Executive Sandra Startz, Grace Stuart and Texas Safari’s Allison Wen were among those enjoying annual program presented by OakBend Hospital.

OakBend Medical Center Cardiologist Dr. Mayank Parikh, shares the limelight with Richmond Mayor Hilmar Moore, Bob Brown, and Mark McGhee at this fall’s What’s Up Doc Event? highlighting the expanded services of the OakBend Medical Center hospitals.

Dee Koch, Ashley Berg and Carol Tralie were among those enjoying the What’s Up Doc? evening at the Texas Safari presented by OakBend Medical Center.

Sharing a moment during the evening at the Texas Safari during the What’s Up Doc? event was Jane and Warren Espey with Susan McCann.

BIG SHOTS

Fort Bend Focus Magazine’s

Check Presentation from the Jewels of Fort Bend Event

Honors the

Jewels of

Fort Bend Fort Bend Focus Magazine would like to thank the sponsors who made the Jewels of Fort Bend 2010 a success!

Emerald

Safari Texas Ranch

Ruby

Fort Bend Focus publishers Michael and Lisa Fredrickson presented Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels with a check for $15,000 as beneficiaries of the Jewels of Fort Bend. Pictured are: Paul Friesen and Manuela Arroyos, Fort Bend Seniors; Alison Wen, Safari Texas Ranch; Michael and Lisa Fredrickson, Randy Briones and Kristin Weiss, Fort Bend Seniors and Jan Loggins, J Loggins Jewelers.

Will and Lena Hardee / Hardee Investment Group Alisa Murray Photography Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land J Loggins Jewelers Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Pamela Printing Salon Eben and Day Spa Dr. Shel Wellness & Medical Spa

Corporate Gem Neil & Carolyn Banfield Billy & Tammy Brown Robert C. Brown, III & Carole D. Brown Lee & Peggy Duggan Dennis E. Halford, DDS MS PB & J Pavement Marking, Inc. Richmond Bone & Joint Clinic May W. Tape, DDS Texas Direct Auto

Sapphire KJ Poetry wrote an original poem in celebration of the 2010 Jewels of Fort Bend. The poem was recited and presented to each Jewel at the check presentation at J Loggins Jewelers. Pictured are: Cassandra Wen, Peggy Duggan, KJ Poetry, Lynn Halford, Brigit Engleman and Carolyn Banfield.

18

Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

Adbright Healthcare Services Inc. Champion Technologies Gurecky Manufacturing Service, Inc. Mayor Hilmar & Evalyn Moore Mr. & Mrs. Jack Wendt

Y O U

A N D

Y O U R

Tax Smart

T A X E S

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

Real estate cost segregation can yield big deductions One item that often jumps out at me with new clients is depreciating the entire cost of the building that houses a business over a 39-year period.

It is true that business buildings generally have a 39-year depreciation period. However, some items of property that are, seemingly, “part of the building” can, nevertheless, be depreciated over a period far shorter than 39 years. Generally, the speedier depreciation is available for items that service the machinery or equipment used in a building, but isn’t available for items that are used for the overall operation and maintenance of a building.

Thus, for example, the costs of your building’s electrical system, to the extent that the costs are allocable to running your business equipment, could have been deducted over a 7-year period, instead of over 39 years. I have seen some very significant tax benefits as well as improvements in various rates of return calculations

for lessors of real property resulting from this tax approach.

Fortunately, it isn’t too late to get the benefit of speedier depreciation if you so desire, either for the electrical system costs discussed above, or for the costs of any other items that were incorrectly assumed to be part of your building for depreciation purposes. You don’t have to amend your past returns (or meet any deadline for claiming tax refunds) to claim the depreciation that you could have already claimed. Instead, you can claim that depreciation by following procedures, in connection with the next return that you file, that will result in “automatic” IRS consent to a change in your accounting for depreciation. Among the results of the process will be a one-time downward adjustment in your income, equal to the amount of the unclaimed depreciation.

There are, however, some things to consider before beginning the process.

3.99

One consideration is that some work is required, probably with the help of your contractors or other construction experts, of identifying and substantiating the qualifying costs. Another consideration is that, before starting that work, it is wise to judge whether the work will result in overall tax savings greater than the costs of the work itself. The second is consideration is timing. The depreciation will be the same over the life of the project, but the timing of when any “catch up” depreciation is taken can make a significant difference when marginal tax rates and the time value of money are taken into consideration. This could be particularly important when considering 2010 v. 2011 incremental tax rates so plan carefully.

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.

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December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

19

Spread the word: UH Systems are meeting a vital need

By Wayne Chandler

annual tuition at UT Austin is $9,418, UH main campus $8,997 and at Texas A housands of Fort Bend County & M College Station $8,387. Not countstudents (and parents) are recing room and board, four year tuition costs ognizing that there an everwould range from $33,548 to $35,988. increasing number of opportu“Compare that to two years at Wharton nities for gaining higher education, right in County Junior College ($4,440) and two their own back yards. years at UH-Sugar Land ($11,208), the total In hard economic times they’re finding would be $15,648,” Phillips notes. Staying that local education centers are convenient, at home and attending the local campuses less expensive, and offering quality curricula could save you $17,900 to $20,340 in and degrees. tuition and fees alone on a four-year pro“Most every student dreams of going to gram in this comparison. Plus, room and a major university for the complete college board would be an additional $34,000 on experience, “ says Richard D. (Dick) average at these institutions.

Phillips, associate vice chancellor “Your kids don’t want to know all of University of Houston System – this, by the way,” Phillips grins.

Sugar Land and Cinco Ranch. “That Phillips is quick to point out that includes pledging, football games, costs aren’t the whole consideration. living independently and maybe “I’m always asked about quality,” even dormitory living and cafeteria Phillips adds. “Quality is a somewhat food. Anyone with the resources and Richard Phillips personal impression, but in academia desire to have that ‘complete college experiwe generally measure by such things as ence’ should do so… accreditation. For instance, the business pro“But on the other hand… particularly gram offered at UHSSL is accredited at the if money matters to you, there are alternahighest level by the Association to Advance tives,” Phillips suggests.

Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB Phillips gives the example of a student International), recognized as the premier seeking a bachelor’s degree in business. In measure of quality in the business education 2010, the latest available figures listed on world.” the College Board web site show that the Phillips knows that, staying at home and

T

20

Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

commuting to college is not usually a college student’s first choice. “ On the other hand, you could buy a pretty nice car for the commute with the savings,” he said.

“Bottom line, from my perspective, is that a college education is worth the investment, period,” the associate vice chancellor said.

Phillips cites statistics that show that a person with a bachelor’s degree earns an average of more than $1 million in lifetime earnings, compared with someone with a high school diploma or less. “But that’s just the money side,” he said. “The type of job, the personal fulfillment, and the quality of life in general are benefits, as well. I’ve yet to have someone tell me they regret having a college degree… ” he said.

By the local enrollment counts, more and more students are availing themselves of the some 30 undergraduate and graduate degrees available in addition to associate degees , either at UHS Sugar Land or UHS Cinco Ranch in the Katy area. The enrollment at UHSSL for fall 2010 was approximately 3,600 with approximately 1,200 students at UHS and 2,400 at Wharton County Junior College. The UHSSL campus opened in 2002 with a little over 1,000 students enrolled. The current Cinco Ranch campus, at 4242 S. Mason Road, really got

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its start 30 years ago when UH established the UH West Institute in Spring Branch as a center for continuing education studies. With transition to teaching centers, in 2000, the name was changed to UHSCR. The UHSSL currently has two huge three-story buildings on a sprawling 250 acres at U.S. 59 South and University Boulevard, with parking lots to accommodate the thousands of students who shuffle in and out of these facilities from early mornings to late evenings.

And a new 40,000 square foot Fort Bend Count University Branch Library is scheduled to open next fall, serving the community, the university and the junior college needs in a unique display of partnership.

Thanks to the foresight, generosity and genuine interest of a number of individuals, local governments and private companies, the UHSSL was created. Phillips attributes much of the heartwarming story that led to this facility to the Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council and UH Chancellor and former Lieutenant Governor William P. Hobby Jr. who urged TXDOT to grant this acreage to UH. The City of Sugar Land, Fort Bend County, the George Foundation and a host of other agencies and private firms also contributed to these facilities.

Before coming to his current role Phillips had served various leadership roles at UH-Victoria since 1994. Prior to that he served as vice president for enrollment management and institutional advancement at a multi-campus university system in Iowa, and held the same position at a private school in Missouri. Prior to that Phillips served 10 years as a principal, teacher and coach, all at the high school level.

He’s in his 40th year in the education field.

Phillips is a super salesman on the merits of partnerships between the centers and county and private interests.

And, more and more local students are benefiting.

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December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

21

NEWSWORTHY Master of Memory classes set for December

Two health publications Two health publications are also available: The New American Heart Association Cookbook and Medicare & Health Insurance - Survival Guide by Toni King . The American Heart Association has released a new version of its original, most comprehensive cookbook— a must-have for your kitchen. Check out at www.americanheart.org. The Medicare Survival Guide can be purchase by emailing King at info@medicaretruths.com, or by calling 281-830-3896.

Many people believe that memory loss and aging go hand-in-hand: as a person gets older his or her memory begins to fail.

Not true!

Texas AgriLife Extension Service, Fort Bend County will begin offering “Master of Memory,” a six-lesson class series that will help you understand how your memory works and what may affect your memory.

Medical conditions, medications, diet and

exercise, among other things, may all play a role in how your memory works.

“Master of Memory” will also help you identify and use strategies to improve your memory function. A three week series will be held on December 2, 9 and 16 from 10:00 a.m. until noon at the Mamie George Community Center located at 1111 Collins in North Richmond. This program is free and open to the public.

Missouri City awarded grants for High-Tech Emergency Response System Missouri City is taking the first steps toward implementing a high-technology radio system that will provide residents with more efficient and effective responses from both the police department and fire and rescue service.

A total of $463,917 in federal grant money awarded to the City will allow the Police Department and Fire & Rescue Service to purchase radio consoles that enhance the implementation and coordination of emergency response communications.

The funds, received from the Department of Homeland Security’s Urban Area Security Initiative grant program, will help improve first-responder communications. The grant is funded 100 percent by UASI and does not require a local match from the City. The

money will be used by the Fire and Police Departments to start the replacement of radio consoles used to dispatch firefighters and police officers to emergency scenes.

At their Nov. 15 meeting, City Council members approved the purchase and installation of the new equipment, which signals the beginning of the City’s transition to a mandated digital radio system for the City’s emergency communications systems.

Fire Chief Russell Sander and Police Chief Joel Fitzgerald noted that the grants “will greatly assist our departments in enhancing the City’s 911 communications center.”

For updates, please watch Council agendas on the City’s website, www.missouricitytx.gov.

Richard named executive director for MHAFBC Laura Richard has been named the Executive Director for the Mental Health Association of Fort Bend County (MHAFBC). Laura has 20 years of experience in management, marketing and development both in profit and non-profit organizations.

She brings to MHAFBC experience in fundraising management and public relations, leading and managing cross-functional teams, and a history of working with community leaders. Laura has deep ties to the commu-

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Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

nity having grown up in Fort Bend County. She received her degree in Marketing and Management from Houston Baptist University. Laura and her husband are members Laura Richard of many Fort Bend based volunteer organizations and consider it a privilege to give back to the community. She currently resides in Sugar Land with her husband and 3 children.

Submit Newsworthy items to editor_fbbj@fortbendstar.com

Holiday gift books Already at most bookstores, a new Sugar Land history book by Bruce Kelly and the City of Sugar Land will be featured in a book signing event on Dec. 18, from 1-3 p.m., at Barnes & Nobles, 16535 Southwest Freeway.

The Images of America- The City of Sugar Land begins with Stephen F. Austin’s earliest settlers and goes all the way to the current achievements Sugar Land has earned as a nationally recognized city.

Railroads of Fort Bend County is a book authored by Richmond resident and Fluor engineer Jim Vollmar.

In 1853 railroads began to play a role in the county’s transportation system. The

Buffalo, Brazos, and Colorado Railroad Company, completed its first 20-mile segment to Stafford’s Point. Eight separate railroad were chartered and operation by 1900.

The Katy Area Chamber of Commerce Health & Wellness Elder Care Committee has published a Cook Book to benefit the Katy Home Delivered Meals program. The Cook Book entitled “Recipes of the Heart” features recipes from local residents as well as winning recipes from recent Rice Harvest Festival Cooking Contests.

The books are $20.00 each and may be purchased at the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce.

Channel 13 Food Drive set for December 10 The annual Channel 13 Food Drive is set for 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, December 10 at B. F. Terry High School in Rosenberg.

The drive will be telecast live from 9-10 a.m. To help in some way as a volunteer or to box or deliver contact Bill Benton with the Rosenberg Lions Club at bbbentontx@sbglobal.net.

“All the food proceeds stay in Fort Bend County,” says Benton. “We can use volunteers, donations, sponsors, and food items. We can always use help setting up, sorting, boxing and delivering.”

Missouri City Women’s Club dinner

Turquoise Grill & Bar opens mid-January

Russ Clark visits with former FBISD Superintendent Betty Baitland during the recent Missouri City Women’s Club dinner at The Grille.

Clark was the featured entertainment at the event closing it out with his rendition of the patriotic song known as Proud to be in American. Clark is an instructor with the Elkins High School Fine Arts Department.

Turquoise Grill & Bar is opening its doors in Sugar Land Town Square. The restaurant offers a wide variety of heart-healthy, Mediterranean and Turkish-inspired foods cooked daily.

“I am from the area and wanted to be the first to bring a Fort Bend/Katy Mediterranean concept infused with a Turkish flare to Town Square,” said owner Jim Dokuyucu. There is currently one other location for the restaurant and bar in the Upper Kirby district of Houston.

Scheduled to open mid-January 2011, Turquoise Grill & Bar will Email your news or press release to be located at 16019 City Walk and will occupy 3,175 square feet of retail space. The restaurant will feature an upscale contemporary editor_fbbj@FortBendStar.com Mediterranean theme that will attract both fun-seeking and sophisWe love to hear from you. Also, don’t forget to read ticated diners.

Dokuyucu represented Turquoise Grill & Bar in the transaction; The Fort Bend Star or visit www.fortbendstar.com Charles Adams, vice president of retail for Planned Community Ideas & suggestions are also welcome.

Developers, represented PCD. For a complete list of Sugar Land Town Square restaurants visit SugarLandTownSquare.com.

4655 Techniplex Dr. Suite 300 • Stafford, TX 77477 • 281-690-4201

GOT NEWS?

December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

23

ATULATION R G N S! O C Victor Ihezukwu

Victor Ihezukwu, currently a student at Elkins High School in the Fort Bend ISD, is the winner of a $1,000 Scholarship sponsored by Texas Direct Auto! Ihezukwu is active in Elkins High School YIP, Harris County Hospital Junior Volunteer, Elkins High School B.P.A club, D.I.C youth Basketball, and numerous other activities and groups. His plans are to attend Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas. He was selected as part of Texas Direct Auto’s commitment to educational excellence through the “Scholarship Stars” program. Application details are listed below.

Register now and win a

1,000

$

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24

Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

HAVE YOUR OWN

WEBSITE WITHOUT SPENDING A FORTUNE!

• A CUSTOM WEBSITE ADDRESS

that you can promote on your business card (and elsewhere) which sends people directly to your own website

• A TOLL-FREE NUMBER

and analysis reporting of calls (at no additional cost) for your business so you can see results.

• ACCESS TO SITE STATISTICS

View, track, and print out reports related to visits and searches to your site • 24/7 ADMIN SITE ACCESS

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• CUSTOM EMAIL ADDRESSES

up to 10 email addresses of your choice (at no additional cost) using your Power Site domain name

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• MENU What’s for dinner? Let customers see what’s on your menu before they come. Upload an image of your menu, making it easy for prospects to feel great about the dining experience in advance.

• WEEKLY AD

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Make sure you have lots of photos on your site so prospective customers can learn more about you. Some businesses will want to display before and after photos to show what great work they do!

You can choose your own web address. It will link directly to your Power Site and, in effect, becomes your own. Promote this web address on your business cards and in your business so customers will know how to reach you on the web. They can e-mail you directly from your Power Site. You will also have 24/7 access to the admin portion of your website to make changes as needed.

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Use your Power Site to showcase any print ads, increasing your advertising exposure and viewer interest.

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If a picture is worth a thousand words, then a video should be worth a million. Have a current TV commercial here or produce a custom video (or ask us how we can do one for you). Online videos will bring more people to your business.

• MAP Partnering with Google, we will provide visitors to your site with a map of your location, making it very easy for them to find you.

People love coupons!! Use Power Sites to display them and be sure to showcase “Internet Only” offers. We can set up your expiration dates to auto advance for low maintenence. This is a great way to bring in new customers!

• CUSTOMER COMMENTS If you would like, customers and the general public can come to your site and post thoughts or reviews of your business. These comments mean a lot to new visitors to your site that are thinking of doing business with you.

• CUSTOM EMAIL ADDRESSES Obtain up to 10 custom email addresses at no extra cost using your Power Site domain name (like bill@billspizza.com and/or customerservice@ billspizza.com, etc.)!

• CALL TRACKING Track and quantify your calls! We will assign a phone number that will forward calls to your business while capturing the info on the call.

Reports can be generated to tell you how many people responded to your print and/or online ads. You will be able to see the numbers of the callers, the duration of each call, and even listen to every single call if you wish (to monitor your own customer service internally). All at no additional cost! This feature is easily worth $50-$60/month all by itself, but it is included in the price of your Power Site!

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• Free Call Tracking Number • Photos Of Your Business Or Products • Google Map Of Your Location • Events, Job and Property Postings • Printable Coupons • Custom Pages • Customer Comment Link • Custom Videos

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Medical Talks

by Dr. Henry Garza III / OakBend Medical Center

New techniques reducing need for hysterectomy Medical advances and a broader understanding of the human body have today resulted in a far less invasive approach to many traditional surgical treatments. In the field of obstetrics and gynecology, these findings are dramatically changing the outcome for women suffering from common female problems such as heavy bleeding during menstruation.

Traditionally, a hysterectomy was recommended to eliminate this type of problem despite its potentially invasive affect on the female body and delicate hormonal balance. And while new technology has refined the procedure, a less invasive approach that preserves the

female anatomy is proving preferable in many cases.

Heavy periods, which are something many women between the ages of 30 and 50 will experience, are a common complaint that often launches the discussion of a hysterectomy. The reasons for a heavy period may vary, as should the treatment options. A review of the patient’s history and a physical exam, possibly including lab tests and a pelvic ultrasound or sonogram, will help determine which treatment option would be most appropriate.

Less invasive treatment may include hormone treatments, a hormone releasing intrauterine device (IUD), or endometrial ablation.

The endometrial ablation is an option for which many women are opting, because it is performed in the office and requires very little recovery time. Our results are indicating that 70 to 80 percent of the candidates for this procedure will be very satisfied with the outcome.

Approximately 20-30 percent of these patients will no longer have a period.

The ablation is performed under a light or local anesthetic and takes only 30 to 60 minutes. A lighted instrument known as a hysteroscope is used for viewing and together with other instruments

HENRY GARZA III... continued on page 55

IT’S HERE! Video. On Demand. 24/7.

On your website. Are you taking advantage of this powerful tool to set yourself apart from the competition?

You can now have your commercial playing around the clock to a global audience.

Google and other search engines love video. A video on your website will place you higher in search rankings.

And your customers love video. It’s dynamic and engaging.

At Star Video Digital Productions, we can help you from conception to completion with your video marketing. Whether you need high-quality video for your website, a TV commercial for traditional cable or broadcast or a promotional video on DVD to deliver to potential customers, we can help.

December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

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Nearly 1,000 jobs coming to Missouri City’s Texas Parkway/Cartwright Road Corridor

By Elsa Maxey

E

conomic development times are tough for many cities, but Missouri City is experiencing a boom in commercial business interest. The city’s Economic Development Coordinator Bob Graf highlights the latest in the developments unfolding as he focuses on the Texas Parkway/Cartwright Road Corridor.

Approximately 800 to 1,000 jobs will be coming to Missouri City as a result of the redevelopment efforts the city has underway both on and near that corridor. Announcements of developing economic opportunities in Missouri City are reported to have had a positive affect on business land sales with the Beltway 8/U.S. 90A industrial area reported to be one of the hottest areas being considered for commercial development.

Three new companies recently selected Missouri City, and two of those are operating in the Lakeview Business Park, a Trammell Crow owned enterprise that transformed the former Willowisp Country Club property bordered by Fondren Road and Buffalo Run into a thriving industrial business hub.

Kusha foods purchased a 38,000 sq. ft. spec building at Lakeview Business Park and is setting up a distribution site for the entire southwestern portion of the U.S. Based in Southern California in Irvine, Kusha is the nation’s distributor of basmati rice products grown in India. Planning for the interior build out is expected in early December.

Flair Flexible Packaging has situated itself in another building at Lakeview’s business park. The Canadian company purchased a 50,000 sq ft building to house plastic packaging operations. The company will be handling packaging for

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all the southern portion of the U.S., Central America and South America at this distribution site. It manufactures pieces of plastic and makes all types of bags such as coffee bags and clear plastics for any type of item that needs packaging.

The company will begin by doing manufacturing and distribution, and it intends to later expand as its business. Future plans call for removing the roof off the back of the building it purchased and to extend it some 60 feet upward to allow for the accommodation of equipment needed to manufacture their bigger products.

Bob Graf Economic Development Coordinator, Missouri City

Star Precision Fabrication, a precision metal fabrication company that uses state of the art laser technology, purchased 10.6 acres on South Gessner Road for a twophased project. The tract of land is split by a drainage canal offering facility development on both sides of the property. Plans call for the immediate construction of a 30,000 sq ft structure that is expected to be operating by June. The second phase to be constructed on the other side of the

Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

canal will be a larger building, an 80,000 – 100,000 sq ft structure. Plans may be modified as the business continues to grow. The first phase will see construction on the ground beginning this year, and the second phase is planned for sometime in the future. Already the company, which is located in northwest Houston, has undergone three expansions. It is currently in a 55,000 sq ft building and is expected to make its move to Missouri City in about two years.

Ben E. Keith, a food distribution center, is moving forward with its plans.

To be housed in seven different buildings comprising 500,000 sq ft, the company will be located on the land it purchased about two years ago. One of the buildings is planned to be a fully automated, refrigerated main facility. Construction is expected to begin by the first quarter of next year and it will take 18 to 24 months to complete the entire project. The value of the project is estimated to be between $80 to $100 million when it is completed, and for the city, that will be an exceptional piece of developed property to add to the city’s tax base.

In another part of the city, the southern portion at the Sienna Village area where CVS is located, there’s a new Mexican restaurant coming to town. Julio’s Mexican Restaurant will have its fourth location at this site.

The business centers in front of Lowe’s Shopping Center on SH 6, also in the same part of town, are undergoing construction and will have three new tenants, Castle Dental, Einstein Bagels, and an H&R Block. Carl’s Jr., a burger eatery, is also under construction at that location.

The La Quinta Hotel, just a tad off SH 6 and Williamsburg Lane is presently under construction. Featuring 55 rooms, it is the first hotel to establish itself within

the city and is expected to become operational by March.

The turn of the century Dew House relocated and now at Kitty Hollow Park will be opening to the public in January.

It is expected to impact the retail center activity on SH 6 across near the Sienna Plantation area.

Additional developments include: Texas Pkwy//Cartwright Rd: Two new retail centers are adding tenants. Auto Max also recently opened on this corridor.

South Gessner Area: Fort Bend Corp moved into its new facility. Professional Packaging added 59,000 sq ft and now occupies almost 100,000 sq. ft.; Mission Foods occupies 20,000 sq ft. of leased space.

Sienna area shopping centers: Popeye’s, Petco and Firestone additions were announced.

Under development – Talks with NewQuest and Metro are underway for 200 parking spaces for a park ride to the Texas Medical Center from the Kroger Center at Sienna.

WE HAVE NO SHORTAGE OF STATE-OF-THE-ART AUTOMATION. WE JUST DON’T THINK IT SHOULD BE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

ANSWERING OUR PHONES. To us, everyone is important. So we answer our phones in person and never charge customers for a call with a Frost banker. Frankly, we believe that driving a technological stake between people and answers is no recipe for success.

Call us on it. f r o s t b a n k . c o m

we’re from here

Sugar Land 8410 Hwy 90A | Stafford 3531 S. Main Missouri City 3600 FM 1092 | 713.388.7600 MEMBER FDIC

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

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

December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

31

E posed

CEO

Play racquetball and walk wherever I can.

What you do to stay in shape:

The day Laura and I got married. Our wedding day signified to me the start of the best part of my life.

Most memorable day and why:

E-mail

The one business tool you can’t live without:

Lunch: Pier 36, Richmond; Dinner: Goode Company Seafood on Kirby

Favorite restaurants:

All day. That might sound unrealistic, but I really love my job and find it invigorating, such that I am energized pretty much all day.

Most productive time of day:

I have breakfast in the Hospital Cafeteria and do rounds in the Hospital.

First thing you do when you get to the office:

I am originally from New Orleans where I met my wife of 26 years, Laura, with whom we have had three great children, David, 22, Ellen 20 and Jake 18. All three of which are now in college, David and Jake at UT and Ellen at A&M. I spent the first 10 years of my career, after moving to Houston in 1986, as a healthcare consultant with Deloitte & Touche, after which I took a position as a hospital CFO for a couple of hospitals from 1996 to 2007 until I joined OakBend Medical Center in June 2007 and became the CEO later that year.

Tell us about yourself, your business background, how did you get where you are today:

CEO, OakBend Medical Center, Richmond • www.oakbendmedcenter.org

FREUDENBERGER

Joe

Photo by Ashley Smith

To advertise in CEO Exposed, call Dean West at 281-690-4201 or dean@fortbendstar.com

80% of the employees at OakBend Medical Center live in the communities we serve. We are committed to our patients, not just because they have entrusted their care to us, but because they are our friends, neighbors and family.

What sets your hospital apart form others in the area?

High quality healthcare provided locally.

We are the only advanced trauma program in Fort Bend County, we are one of only two American Stroke Association accredited Gold Plus Stroke Programs in the ENTIRE Houston area, our cancer program is accredited by the American Cancer Society with commendation, we have an award winning obstetrical service and our respiratory therapy department has been rated in the top 10% of respiratory therapy departments nationwide for the last 5 years running by the American Respiratory Association.

What do you consider the most important thing that OakBend has to offer this community?

The indisputable healthcare system of choice for West Fort Bend County.

Where would you like to see OakBend in the next 5 years?:

The people. Healthcare is in my opinion the most people oriented industry in the world. Everything we do has people treating people. That creates a very exciting and challenging environment, with real meaningful results, the health of our patients. Leading the organization such that we work as a cohesive team to provide the most important service you, as a patient, will ever receive provided by a very diverse group of healthcare professionals is the most rewarding experience I could ever imagine. I think I would have made a tragic mistake working with machines in manufacturing instead of people in healthcare.

What you like best about your work:

FORT BEND Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance’s 2010 Celebration Ball at Safari Texas Ranch, celebrates the Chamber’s 100th anniversary

Joe and Laura Freudenberger, OakBend Medical Center.

Outgoing Chamber Board Chair Dan McDonald, ANCO-McDonald Waterworks, passes the gavel to Incoming Chair Kamal Ariss, JE Dunn Construction.

County Commissioner Richard Morrison and Alyson Morrison.

Mike Shaw, Fort Bend Toyota, Debbie Shaw, Gail Parker, President/CEO, Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance, and Randy Parker.

Carl Drozd, Elizabeth Duff Drozd, Laura Leatherwood, and Claude Leatherwood, Houston Community Bank.

Fort Bend County Treasurer Jeff Council and former Chamber President Cliff Terrell.

Emma Sexton, Patrick Sexton, Legacy Ford Lincoln Mercury, Ron Ewer, owner Legacy Ford Lincoln Mercury, and Juliana Ewer.

Terry Ricklefsen, Gena Ricklefsen, Affairs with Flair, Tracey Shaw, Texana Center, Jim Shaw, Indermuehle & Co.

Carl Drozd, Elizabeth Duff Drozd, Mithcell & Duff, Amy Mitchell, Mitchell & Duff, and Jake Messinger.

Kay Beard, Barry Beard, Post Oak Bank, Wade Perry, and Dena Perry, Fort Bend Focus.

Bob Brown and Allison Wen, Safari Texas Ranch.

Bob and Carole Brown

BIG SHOTS

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Money Talks

by Tim Stubenrouch / First Community Bank

End 2010 with a successful plan We are already approaching the end of 2010. While we wish that we had more time to accomplish everything we had planned for the year, we are also ready for the year to be over and a new fresh one in front of us.

Planning for this year end will help us be successful in the coming year both personally and professionally.

For businesses if you have not already signed up for the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS), the time is now.

There is a mandate coming that all Federal tax deposits including payroll tax payments will have to be paid electronically effective the first of the year. Information on who is required to enroll in EFTPS and how to enroll if you are required can be found at www.irs.gov.

Speaking of taxes, if you are considering purchasing business assets you may qualify for

bonus depreciation if you purchase in 2010; this tax break ends this year. At the time I write this we still do not know if the Bush tax cuts will be extended. Keep an eye on that and shift your income and expenses to maximize your tax savings. If you need help with financing to maximize you’re your business or personal we are here at your local community bank with both personal and business loans available.

Regardless of what Washington does if you have losses to take it may be to your advantage to take them this year. You may also want to take any gains, as the tax on long-term capital gains is scheduled to increase in 2011. Make the most of deductible spending, both in your business and personal finances. If you have a personal flexible spending account for health or childcare benefits, be sure to check how

much you have and how long you have to use the money. Some accounts may expire at the end of the year; others may give you until March.

We started 2010 with resolve to have a successful year. As 2010 comes to a close we should all take time to celebrate whatever successes we had during the year, both in our businesses and personal lives; and to plan how we can end this year in the best financial position possible while working to a successful 2011.

Tim Stubenrouch is a Columnist for the Fort Bend Business Journal and is with First Community Bank, N.A., President - Fort Bend, 13135 Dairy Ashford, Suite 250, Sugar Land, TX 77478. He can be reached at 281242-2262, fax: 281-242-1522, or email at stubenrouch@firstcommunitybank.net. H

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December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

35

Texas and Florida beaches remain inviting and oil-less getaways

By Dori Wind

I

magine you are walking in soft, white sand with each step taking you closer to a turquoise colored ocean. Suddenly you are walking and swimming in fresh salt water surrounded by waves bouncing you back and forth. The saltwater is rejuvenating at just the right temperature, a little on the cool side, but not cold enough to shock the system. Salt water is known for its exfoliating and other healthful properties.

Have you ever dreamt about relaxing, surfing, shelling, bird watching, jogging, walking, boating, or playing on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches? Thanks to the BP oil spill scare, the beaches of central Florida and Texas are accessible and affordable for all.

While Florida beaches were fast becoming a refuge for wealthier snowbirds from the northern United States, Canada, and areas of Europe, they now resemble abandoned islands, except for the large flocks of nesting terns, blue herons, turtles, pelicans and seagulls. The traditional snowbirds that flocked to the beaches for their annual winter migration have all but disappeared. Store owners and small businesses hold out hope that the snowbirds will still emerge with families in tow for a great vacation.

October to March is the season for the snowbirds to flock to the beaches, but whether that will hold true for this year is yet to be

36

determined. The beaches are ghost towns of what used to be. The real estate bust was the first strike against the beach areas, but the BP oil spill has devastated the hotel, motel, timeshare, restaurant, tourism and economy that would be thriving, except for the belief that beautiful pristine beaches are now covered with oil. At the very least BP should be spreading the word that a beach vacation is still extremely desirable and not a drop of oil can be found on the white blanket of beaches.

The beaches of the St. PetersburgClearwater area are ranked as some of the best in the country. One secret of the Florida beaches (of which Texans may not be aware) is that Florida has a beach re nourishment plan that involves blowing sand out of the ocean every 25 years or so, to recreate the white sands that have eroded over time. While nature may have created the first beaches, in Florida man continues to recreate and enlarge them on a sustained basis.

National travel television shows rank these beaches as being comparable to those of Hawaii, Australia and numerous islands.

Florida’s Caladesi Island and Fort Desoto Park have been placed in the top ten lists of the country’s must visit beaches on several annual rankings of the best beaches in the country.

So, it is especially disheartening that families have canceled their trips to the beach, foregoing their irreplaceable memories of wonderful

Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

times.

A trip to the Florida and Texas beaches can also be full of fun surprises. You just may be invited to see a Tampa Bay Rays game free of charge. Due to the economy in the area, many fans were cutting back on discretionary spending, so Matt Silverman, the youthful president of the Rays, in concert with the Rays organization, decided to offer 20,000 free tickets on a first-come basis to fans in the bay area. Florida’s Clearwater Beach was also the backdrop for the National Speed Boat Race Championships. Watching the turbo-charged boats speed through the water was a unique experience reminiscent of the grand prix auto races that used to be in downtown Houston, only these are water-based.

In Galveston a trip to the strand can be a bargain hunting full day shopping trip.

You can have fun at Moody Gardens or Schlitterbahn Galveston; enjoy a good meal at a local restaurant and see a show at the Grand 1894 Opera House. Also there are tours of beautiful period homes and museums for history buffs.

So whether you visit Galveston and Padre Island or the white sands of Florida, some time at the beach is a pleasure not to be missed.

This is also a great time to invest in beach real estate as the prices have plummeted, but may rise in the future. Several condos in Galveston have held auctions recently to increase sales.

Upcoming Chamber Events

������ SEEKING ING� A Workshop/Seminar Series for Fort Bend Business

For membership information, contact: Jan-Michael Jenkins - 281-491-0218

www.FortBendChamber.com December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

37

www.FortBendChamber.com

Fort Bend Chamber Membership

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

Welcome New Members AXXIOM

Jody Schuster, Controller 11927 South Hwy 6 Fresno, TX 77545 281-431-0581 x 5105 Manufacturers

Bio Skin & Laser

Genworth Financial

Thomas Rice, Registered Representative 14090 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-668-8886 Insurance Providers

HDK Enterprises, Inc.

Elvia Quintana, Director of Marketing 14019 SW Frwy Suite 408 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-325-0100 Medical Spa

Harish Katharani, CEO 7700 Main Street #250 Houston, TX 77030 713-660-8888 Health Care

Classic Messaging LLC

Dominic Cashiola, President 2277 Plaza Drive, Suite 461 Sugar Land, TX 77479 291-494-6250 Telecommunications

HR in Alignment, LLC Michael Dobert, President 16331 Blossomwood Ln Sugar Land, TX 77498 281-494-2985 Human Resource Services

Papa John’s Pizza

DJ Anderson CPA

David Anderson, PO Box 17507 Sugar Land, TX 77496 281-732-3367 Financial Services

Toni Burns, Owner / Operator 1480 Crabb River Road suite 100 Richmond, TX 77469 713-995-4040 Restaurants

Emb88dy Fitness Center

Pro Med-Rx

Raul Cardenas, GM 4799 Lexington Blvd.

Missouri City, TX 77459 281-208-9080 Fitness Center

Rod’s Residential Services Rolando Rodriguez, Owner 707 Aqua Vista Ln Richmond, TX 77469 832-473-0715 Home Improvement

Software Consulting, Inc

Mike Sarda, CEO 3526 Orchard Blossom Dr Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-265-0204 Computer Systems Consultants

State Farm Insurance / Bowers Jr John Bowers Jr., Agent 1650 Highway 6 #450 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-242-4800 Financial Services

The Marketing Department Howard Spencer, Owner & Managing Director 4550 Sweetwater Blvd, ste B Sugar Land, TX 77478 832-434-7244 Advertising Agencies

Sacha Betts, Pharmacy Manager 13134 Dairy Ashford Rd #900 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-313-0730 Pharmacies

www.FortBendChamber.com 38

Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

We Believe in You, Thanks for Believing in US! 1 Year Storm Water Solutions, LP Charles Beyer, 281-587-5950 Paragon Hospice Melissa Trevino, 281-277-1151

Carino’s Italian Kitchen

Nectron International, Limited Michael Kardoush, 281-240-2222

6 Years Greenscape Associates, LLC Vincent Morales, 281-341-9975

Oyster Creek Rotary Club Mike Baker, 281-770-0060

Katherine Alyea, 281-261-2630

Fort Bend CORPS Brandy Leonhardt, 281-340-1934

Lawton Publications Gerrie Cook, 877-452-9866

14 Years Sienna / Johnson Development, LP Michael Smith, 281-778-7777

Canon Business Solutions Carol Busbey, 713-300-5466

City of Sugar Land Thomas Abraham, 281-275-2707

The Design Source Jeanne Garland, 281-242-3336

2 Years City of Sugar Land Jacquie Baly-Chaumette, 281-565-0390

7 Years Sign A Rama of Sugar Land Randy Spicher, 281-565-7446

LJA Engineering & Surveying, Inc. Calvin T. Ladner, 713-953-5200

Ruthie’s Mexicana Restaurant Ruthie Pabon, 281-491-7884 Fort Bend Mechanical, Ltd. Eric Medford, 281-403-4822 3 Years Waterstone Place Apartments Marta Garcia, 281-261-7775 St. Michael’s Emergency Rooms Kathleen Beach, 281-980-4357 Blue Sky Development, Inc. Nichole Killingsworth, 281-980-9494 City of Sugar Land Donald G. Olson, 281-275-2707 4 Years University of Houston-Victoria School of Business Farhang Niroomand, 800-687-4293

Milestone Members 5 Years

Kevin Riles Real Estate Kevin Riles, 281-403-3700

Prudential Gary Greene, Realtors Debbie Marcell, 281-782-2102

Milestone Members 15 Years

Prestige Car Wash Buddy Gray, 281-261-3100 Frederick P. Forlano, Attorney at Law Frederick P. Forlano, 713-621-6611

Michael Lavelle, 713-224-2047

Glen E. McClure, Ph.D. Glen McClure, 281-494-6800

17 Years Sugar Land Plumbing Jeanne Edmunds, 281-242-6990

City of Sugar Land Russell Jones, 281-275-2707

19 Years Fort Bend ISD, Community Partnerships Mary Ann Simpson, 281-634-1108

8 Years City of Sugar Land Michael Schiff, 281-275-2707 City of Sugar Land Jimmy Thompson, 281-275-2714

21 Years Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels Manuela Arroyos, 281-633-7049

Chiang, Patel & Yerby, Inc. Sanjay Ram, 713-532-1730

Milestone Members 25 Years

9 Years Wal-Mart Charles Smith, 281-340-0900 11 Years Shadow Creek Ranch Development Gary Cook, 713-436-0003 Karl’s at the Riverbend Susie Camenzind, 281-238-9300

Professional Service Industries, Inc.

Prudential Gary Greene, Realtors Nikki Owen, 713-465-6644 29 Years Fluor Corporation Matt McSorley, 281-263-1000

13 Years CFI Mechanical, Inc. Chuck Fell, 832-467 8200

www.FortBendChamber.com December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

39

www.FortBendChamber.com CUTT

RIBBON

INGS

AT&T

6215 Hwy 6, suite 500 Missouri City, TX 77459 (281) 403-1883 AT&T opens updated 3,500 square foot state of the art retail store in Missouri City.

AT&T recently announced that it updated and relocated its retail store in Missouri City. The updated store has moved from its previous location along Highway 6 to the 6200 block of Highway 6, Suite 500.

“Our updated and relocated downtown Missouri City store redefines the sales experience,” said Chris Penrose, Vice President and General Manager, AT&T South Texas.

“Customers can try out our newest line-up of quick messaging devices and smartphones, as well as AT&T’s U-verse TV services when they visit this location.”

Hours of operation are Monday through Friday 9 a.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Top Shelf

16535 Lexington Blvd., Suite 150 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-980-0234 Owners and Sugar Land residents Manmeet & Paul Likhari and Harry Munday invite you to come and enjoy their truly unique inventory of hand selected wine, spirits, and chilled beer—many of which are not available at other local liquor stores—set in a fun retro atmosphere. Wine and spirit specialists Stuart Montgomery and Josh Male are gladly available to educate and assist you in selecting the perfect pairing to a special meal or occasion, an unforgettable gift, or something new to expand your palate. They are happy to order your favorite items not available in-store.

In addition to its wide selection of high-end items, Top Shelf offers a vast array of value-priced items suitable to any wine and spirit enthusiast’s budget. Also available is an exciting collection of entertaining accessories including glassware, napkins, decanters, swizzle sticks, wine/cocktail books, and seasonal items perfect for gift-giving.

Top Shelf’s tasting bar will be holding special events including tastings, product showcases, and more. For more information on upcoming events, please visit www.topshelfsugarland.com or follow them on Twitter @TopShelfSL. Top Shelf is located at 16535 Lexington Blvd. Suite 150, and is open Monday-Saturday 10 am – 9 pm.

40

www.FortBendChamber.com Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

www.FortBendChamber.com CUTT

RIBBON

INGS

Old Republic Title

4690 Sweetwater Blvd., Suite 290 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-565-6655 Old Republic Title has relocated to a new office location in the Founders Bank Plaza building at 4690 Sweetwater Blvd, Suite 290. With over 40 years of cumulative experience the Sugar Land team of highly trained professionals are experts in both residential and commercial closings.

Old Republic Title’s operating strategy focuses on providing clients with an exceptional closing experience.

Old Republic maintains four direct branch offices serving the Sugar Land, Galleria, Champions and Kingwood areas of Houston. The Old Republic Title Insurance Group is one of the largest title insurance groups in the United States and is committed to being the most financially sound title insurer in the industry. Since 1992, it has earned the highest financial strength ratings in the title insurance industry. No group has equaled its consistent high ratings, which reflect the ORTIG’s strong capitalization; favorable operating performance; conservative investment strategy; strong commitment to technology, and its strategic relationship with its Chicago-based parent, Old Republic International Corporation.

Bio Skin & Laser

14019 SW Frwy, Suite 408 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-325-0100 Bio Skin and Laser is a medical spa designed for men and women that is the ultimate source for the most effective esthetic and beautification procedures.

Using a unique combination of cutting edge technology and customized procedures along with client education we help you, our client, meet and surpass your own expectations.

At Bio Skin & Laser you can be assured of safely receiving superior results in a warm, comfortable and welcoming atmosphere.

Some of the services we offer to help make you look your best include: Zerona Body Slimming , Laser Hair Removal, HydraFacial, GloFacial, Microdermabrasion, Chemical Peels, Body Treatments, Radiesse.

The results are astonishing!! You will see and feel the difference! Call, click on www.bioskinandlaser.com or come by and visit us.

www.FortBendChamber.com December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

41

www.FortBendChamber.com CUTT

RIBBON

INGS

Staples

14404 Hillsroft Ave. #100 Houston, TX 77085 713-729-3455 Staples Inc., the world’s largest office products company, celebrated the opening of its tenth Houston store with a $10,000 donation to the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Houston.

On Monday, Oct. 25, elected officials, business and community leaders, and area residents gathered at the new Staples store, located at 14404 Hillcroft Ave. to officially welcome their new neighbor into the HoustonFort Bend community.

At noon, Harris County Precinct 2 Commissioner Grady Prestage and Fort Bend County Chamber of Commerce President Keri Curtis Schmidt joined store General Manager John Waddilove in a unique “ribbon-shredding” ceremony to officially open the new Staples store. An aide from the office of Houston City Council Member Wanda Adams also attended.

Classic Messaging LLC 2277 Plaza Drive, Suite 461 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-494-6250

Classic Messaging LLC provides Emergency Mass Messaging services to water districts, municipalities and other organizations that need to reach their residents or customers in just a few minutes. In the event of water outages, system failures, etc. Classic Messaging sends a pre-recorded phone message, a text message and an email to their client’s contact list.

Classic Messaging LLC is owned and operated by Sugar Land residents Dominic Cashiola, Rodney Vannerson and Ken Dulin Jr. All three company members bring key experiences that make Classic Messaging LLC the right solution for Emergency Mass Messaging.

Mass messaging technologies are not new to the market. However, Classic Messaging has designed its service to include fully managed emergency messaging operations. Emergency situations are the worst time for community leaders to be worried about how to use a messaging platform. We make it easy to notify thousands of people in just a few minutes.

You can find us at www.classicmessaging.com or call 281-494-6250.

www.FortBendChamber.com 42

Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

Upcoming Chamber Events

Thursday, December 9, 2010 Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd Sugar Land

7:30 am

Member Reservation $10 Non-member Reservation & Walk-ins $20 Breakfast Sponsored by:

Reserve online at www.FortBendChamber.com or contact Jaine Garvin at 281.491.2407 or jaine@fortbendcc.org for more information

www.FortBendChamber.com December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

43

Upcoming Chamber Events

Oh What a Night!

A Fort Bend Chamber Celebration Saturday, February 5, 2011 Safari Texas Ranch

11627 FM 1464 Rd Sugar Land, TX 77498

Cocktail Reception - 6:30 p.m.

Dinner - 7:30 p.m.

Programs, Recognition & Premier Enertainment Live Entertainment & Dancing Black Tie Optional Complementary Valet

For more information contact Jaine Garvin 281.491.2407 or jaine@fortbendcc.org

www.FortBendChamber.com 44

Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

Fort Bend/Katy

Update Friday Night Lights…Camera…Action!

Football stars, band members and cheerleaders aren’t the only students shining on friday night

O

n Friday nights in Katy ISD, it’s game time. But not all stars on the field are football players as a key element to a night at Rhodes Stadium are students from Katy ISD’s Miller Career & Technology Center’s Media and Technology class. These students have spent weeks preparing to run the one thing at the game that will be watched just as much - if not more - than the game itself; the new Live Action Media Broadcast System, or LAMBS for short.

As the newest feature at Rhodes Stadium this year, heads are turning toward the south end of the stadium throughout the night to catch instant replays; see close-up shots of the bands; cheerleaders revving up the fans; and advertisements from local businesses. And it’s all operated by students.

“We arrive about two hours prior to the games to set-up cameras, perform sound checks and make sure everyone is in place,” said Justin Sanchez, senior at Seven Lakes High School and one of this year’s LAMBS student operators.

Through the Media and Technology course offered at Katy ISD’s Miller Career & Technology Center, students are trained to use live action cameras, run instant replays, play commercial runs, splash videos and participate in technical direction. All students are trained in each of the positions and, with an 11-student crew, work the LAMBS system during district games and activities. Students work about six hours per week and get paid to do it.

“I’ve worked the field cameras, camera one, two and three, and I trained for click effects; but what excites me the most is the entire opportunity we’re getting through this

46

experience,” says Ali Gould, senior at Katy High School and LAMBS student operator.

Gould, who aspires to work in the film production industry, added, “I think the film industry will be hard to break into, but I think I’ll be ahead of the pack with this experience.”

The media and technology class was first introduced at MCTC during the 20082009 academic year. Since its inception, a total of 58 students have graduated in Apple Certified Pro’s Cut Pro Level 6 and 7. The course currently has 63 students enrolled for the 2010-2011 academic year, up 16 students compared to last year.

“To our knowledge, this is the most any program of our kind has graduated in the nation,” said Jack Degelia, Media and Technology Instructor at Katy ISD’s Miller Career & Technology Center. “Most high school and even college campuses will run one, maybe two, live action cameras. In Katy ISD, we run five live action cameras during games. We’re approaching network standards with what we’re doing, and this experience will provide our students with a unique advantage as they leave high school.”

Preparing Students for Careers The Media and Technology course is one of 11 “career academies” of the 16 Federal Career Clusters. These programs are geared specifically to prepare students for careers after graduation. Some of the most popular courses are Auto Tech, Cosmetology and Culinary Arts. Through these programs, 370 certifications were earned by MCTC students last year.

“Our goal at Miller Career and Technology

Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

Center is to provide a learning environment that incorporates cutting-edge industry standards with high academic expectations,” said Dr. Anna Webb-Storey, Principal at Miller Career & Technology Center. “This is possible through partnerships with the business community and the parents. We prepare our students for the transition from high school to post-secondary education and ultimately career success.”

Recently, an informal study was conducted to compare the total start-up cost of the Media & Technology course to other programs such as Auto Tech, Cosmetology and Culinary Arts. The study showed that it cost approximately $705,000 to jump start the Media & Technology course, compared to $3.2 million, $1.2 million and $1.6 million for Auto Tech, Cosmetology and Culinary Arts respectively.

“One of the criticisms we hear is about the LAMBS. What people need to know, however, is that students are using the LAMBS to get real world experience much like they do with other career and technical offerings,” says Joe Kelly, Katy ISD Assistant Superintendent, Area 3. “The number of students in the Media and Technology course, when you compare it to the other courses offered by Miller, is right in line both in terms of cost and number of students impacted.”

Revenue Generator While much of the focus has been placed on the cost of the LAMBS, $743,000, what has been overlooked is the fact that the system is a revenue generator. To date, the district has sold $177,000 of advertising for the current season – with contracts in place that will

generate $522,000 over the next three years.

“The Live Action Media Broadcast System provides multiple opportunities for local businesses to advertise through signage, commercial, and broadcast capabilities,” explains Ben Rolens, Katy ISD’s General Manager of Facilities who oversees Katy ISD’s marketing and corporate development efforts. “We expect that over the course of the year, that more than 200,000 people will enter the gates of Rhodes Stadium to enjoy football, soccer, UIL marching band compe-

titions, and other special events.”

At the current rate of advertising, district officials project that the LAMBS will pay for itself in approximately five years. If advertising revenue increases, it will pay for itself even sooner. Afterwards, revenue generated by the LAMBS will go directly into the district’s General Operating Fund. Over the next 10 years, the LAMBS could generate as much as $1.5 million in revenue for the district above its purchase cost.

While advertising revenue is definitely a plus, the primary focus is still on the students and the skills they will learn throughout the

course of the season.

“Our first priority is the education of our students,” says Alton Frailey, Katy ISD Superintendent. “When we are able to link advanced technologies and real-life experiences to teaching and learning, we enhance the overall educational experience and open new doors for our students.”

Gould couldn’t agree more, “I think the LAMBS definitely allows for many opportunities, like getting into film school. It may even help us get jobs at college stadiums since we already have this training that many students don’t yet have at our age.”

December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

47

Data Beat DBA (Assumed Names)

(+) = More Names

This is a sample of the Assumed Names (DBAs) filed at the Fort Bend County Clerk’s office for October 2010. More Assumed Names may be viewed online at http://ccweb.co.fort-bend.tx.us/RealEstate/SearchEntry.aspx. There were 340 Assumed Names with Notary Fee for month of October. There were also 91 Assumed Names without a notary fee.

Philip George Pathanamthitta District Association 203 Present St 77489

Howard Naoma N & H Janitorial Services 2046 Green Crest 77489

Stein Whitney Paige 78 33398 Reynolds Road 77476

Hou Fu Joseph Wuling Engineering 1730 Northshore Dr 77459

Boland Chalmene Elite Beauty Social Society Club 3880 S Gessner 77063

Stein Joyce Mcree Mcree’s 33410 Reynonds Rd 77476

Mathews Kirshina Roberts Family Reunion 3211 Ruffin Green 77545

Bobb Eric Ez Promotion’s 2431 Bradford 77489

Mcmillan Brenda Brenda Mcmillan Photography 7214 Timberlake Dr 77479

Jones Carlos C Ii The Way Church 703 Hawthorn Place 77459

Rodriguez Ricky Houston’s 4G 3210 Reeh Rd Lot E 77461 Herman Millicent Flourish Po Box 3161 77487 Mclean Antoine Houston Silver Coins Exchange 8403 Running Bird Ln 77489 Sklar Matthew Ink’s Remodeling 347 Dukes Bend 77477 Churchman Dantoine T D & C General Services 7311 San Pablo 77083 Anthony Sherryl Judah Ware Po Box 935 77406 Ngo Tuyet Snow Ispa Nails 4645 Hwy 6 Ste A 77478 William Gwendolyn C Brightstar Enterprise 1020 Brand Ln #412 77477 Patel Atulkumar R Eehaaradio 1230 Berrystone Tr 77459 Burkins Lasonya Sonya’s Cleaning 1647 Meadow Green Dr 77489 Crawford Jon The Service Company 6731 Pickett 77469

48

Prasad Bindiya Mayura Dance Academy 2943 S Main 77477 Ramirez Antonio P Ramirez Home Renovations 3500 Avenue N 77471 Falaye Moyosore Isntiteasy 1055 Belknap Dr Suite 118 77498 Henderson Ralphard Mr. Henderson’s Blessed Detailing & Windshield Repair 16619 Lonesome Quail 77849

Hansen Brandon Hansen Services 3006 Moffett Ln 77489 Domingue Sabrina S & D Enterprise 1719 Ocotillo Ct 77494 Watson Mary Catherine Mcw Gallery 28207 Wild Mustang Ln 77441 Boskey Allen Franklin Boskey Gunworks 17803 River Oaks Road 77430 Romero Maria C Painting Crew 2027 Quail Valley East Dr 77459 Shannon-Muniz Brenda Shannon-Muniz & Associates 20610 Winlock Trace 77450 Smith Roscoe Sinner Turn Saint Records 5411 Ingamar Way 77053

Kalejaiye Olufunmilayo Groovee Party Rentals High Achievers LLC Dba 21207 Granite Trail Lane 77407 Salon One Salon One Bean Novella 2248 Fm 1092 77459 Willnola Services 7426 Daylight Ln 77095 Edmund D Samora Llc First Colony Taxi Mickey Winborne Po Box 1475 Rosenberg 77471 Refrigeration Inc Winborn Refrigeration Edmund D Samora Llc & Construction Sugarland Taxi 12950 S Kirkwood Rd Po Box 1475 77471 Ste 100 77477 Seivom Healthcare Najera Veronica Associates Inc Play Gym Baby Sugar Land Fit Body Boot Camp 4303 Stonebrook Ln 77459 6560 Greatwood Pkwy #1200 77479 Elege Vivian M & K Healthcare Services Benge Margo 7015 Garnet Lake Ct 77407 Miracles 2722 N Doral Dr 77459 Anyigbo Frances Afena Healthcare Services Williams Sheryl 11014 Raniev Dr 77031 The Youth Empowerment Source-Project (The Y.E.S. Project) (+)

Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

3603 Liberty Square Tr 77545 Excellent Medical Services Inc Ari Autos 4535 Magnolia Ln 77478 Frontline Care The Way Church 703 Hawthorn Place 77459

Fountain Diana Terese Fountain Marketing 115 Selkirk Dr 77479 Ware John C T&C Urban Wear 2007 Ruffian Ln 77477

Wan Investment Llc New Heavenly Washateria 5102 Beacon Pointe 77479

Mintor Nicole Todd Superior Inflight Services Texas 1013 Sycamore Rd 77406

Shamez Holdings Inc Niko’s Fusion Grill 16754 Sw Freeway 77479

Guajardo Rolando Mypicsation (+) 104 Industrial Blvd Ste Q 77478

Atlas Construction Contractor Inc Atlas Global Solutions 14760 Memorial Dr #205B 77079

Akintunde Folasade Nissi Therapeutic Services Po Box 807 77411

Neubauer Shari Neubauer Insurance 12603 Sw Frwy Ste 630 77477

Ighile Efosa (+) Navio Media 4118 Bluewater Drive 77459

Smarr Kimberly Nelms (+) The H.O.P.E. House (+) 4106 Ludwig Lane 77477

Harrison Melodi Results Online P O Box 261 77479

Broussard Jonathan Wesly Bruzhard Publishing 8406 Bird Run Dr 77489

Brooks Karina Ingenio Consulting 5406 Moon Indigo Lane 77494

Posey Travis B Iii Ace Consumer Finance 12869 Capricorn St 77477

Houston Jamal Two Season’s Air Conditioning & Heating 1803 Millbury Dr 77489

Mcgriff Wilfred Overflow Trucking 4706 Owens Glen Ct 77545 Harvey Lorna Commodities Direct 4522 Wavertree Dr 77459 Leviathan Enterprise Group L.E.G. Consulting Team 2626 S Loop West Suite 150 77054 Mccumber Caleb National Roofing 1931 Foster Leaf Lane 77406 Vicki Hiep Lam/Rtv Vlam Property/Road To Victory 9555 W Sam Houston #160 77099 Campbell Gloria Exquisite Kinks 1789 Texas Pkwy 77489

Roberts James N Autumn Creek Music Services 215 Autumn Creek Ln 77406 Roberts James N Autumn Creek Music Studios 215 Autumn Creek Ln 77406 Roberts James N Autumn Creek Music 215 Autumn Creek Ln 77406 Gonzales Maverick Trik Durt Construction 806 Riveredge Dr 77406 Glasper Terron Maximum Fitness 19202 Summer Island Way 77407 Rana Abdul R Texas Title & Licensing Services 4311 Margate Dr 77479

Data Beat DBA (Assumed Names)

Etuk Ofonime Skute Healthcare 7315 Tara Blue Ridge 77469

Rnc Enterprises Inc Grandlakes Nails & Spa 6920 S Fry Rd 77494

Kaltsas Nickolas Nick’s Italian Restaurant 11511 Fm 1464 77407

Adebayo-Alabi Elizabeth (+) E And A Truelove Trucking 15015 W Airport Blvd #722 77498

Lopez Alaina Sanderson Heart 2 Heart Counseling And Consulting 2307 Chelsea Vale Dr 77545

Sartain Mark Dynamite Club Volleyball 14019 Southwest Frwy Ste #301-212 77478 Taylor Tawaki L Jus Because 15270 Voss Road #215 77498

Dasgupta Rana 3D Ventures 1803 Mustang Crossing 77459

Jacobson Scott Rjs Enterprises 3415 Double Lake Drive 77459

Whigham Charles Jr Fed Beatz 10826 Silkwood 77031

Risdon Daniel Alan (+) Hix Construction Services 7406 Maple Run Dr 77479

Mertz-Terry Michele (+) Texas T Ranch 4830 Fm 1952 77485

Hohn Brittany Diamondback Contracting 5131 Avondale Dr 77479

Briggs Queen Owunari Hair Grove Beauty Empire 3507 Carmine Glen 77459

Mertz-Terry Michele (+) Texas T Ranch Wagyu 4830 Fm 1952 77485

Mcmonagle Michael R Houston Home Tech 16543 Dawncrest Way 77498

Geores Cheryl Mail Box Art (Mba) Cheryl 2307 Oakview Dr 77459

Sheppard Darnell L Sr (+) Larry’s Landscaping 119 Anvil Rock Lane 77469

Colbert Emma Sims Eco Hair 4807 Hwy 6 Suite 21 77459

Diep Pham Dds Inc Diep Pham Dds 3939 Lexington Blvd 77459

Luna Jose 24/7 Security 9850 S Kirkwood 77099

Sugar Land Education Group Llc Begineers Academy 13610 W Airport Blvd 77498

Diep Pham Dds Inc Lexington Dental Center 3939 Lexington Blvd 77459

Mahmood Kashif Younez International 19218 Desert Calico Ln 77407

Awami Grocers Inc Awami Markaz 2 1730 William Trace 77478

Stanton Kendall C (+) K & S Professional Carpet Cleaning 21214 Granite Trail Ln 77407

Tibbetts Kelly Star & Stripes Pressure Washing 610 Hardin Rd 77471

Lee Todd Alan Heritage Remodeling & Repairs 4642 Brazos Bend Dr 77459

Right Of Way Driving School Llc Seven Lakes Driving School 23144 Cinco Ranch Blvd Ste D 77494

Veira Renee Agape Adult Day Services 8888 Benning Dr #173 77031

King Mike (+) King’s Tree Service 16 Pinehurst 77459

Deleon Lee Texas B.Y.S. Services 2218 Leaman Ave 77471

Alexander Edwina (+) Kidzone Learning Center 7446 Maczali Dr 77489

Right Of Way Driving School Llc Katy Driving School 23144 Cinco Ranch Blvd Ste D 77494

Tennessee Sklar My Angels Christian Academy 5930 Nine Mile Ln 77459

Children Of The Word Ministry Missouri City House Of Prayer 14807 Rich Valley 77498

Abila Ernesto American Technical Consultants 16038 Old Richmond Rd 77498

Fadugba Adebayo (+) E’clante (+) 5903 Saber River 77479 Jordan Robin J Diversified Services 2914 Jane Long League Dr 77406 Pohlman David C Capital And Financial Advisors 2138 Morning Park Dr 77494

Harvey Kenneth N The A&I Store (+) 36824 Lariat Lane 77476 Gagan Shakil Al - Muqaddim International Trade Corporation 4126 Harwood Dr 77479

(+) = More Names

Maestas Joe M (+) Sales & Leadership Development 22510 Blue Canyon Dr 77450

Morin Arturo Iii The Honey Do Man (+) P O Box 1464 77545

Smyser Cassandra The Balloon Lady (+) 1610 Jo Ann Lane 77498

Jones Deborah Judora Deb-B Travull Trezurz 5134 Ridgeton Dr 77053

Ennen Kesa (+) Ribbonistas’ Boutique 7647 Village Mill Ln 77407

Marez Jamie Exclusive Framing And Detail 3007 Deer Lodge 77459

Alvis Richard Richmond Pressure Washing 103 Land Grant Ct 77406

Guerrero Gilberto B (+) American Iron & Design 1803 Grand Park Dr 77489

Crist Richard Andrew Rac 3014 Cape Blanco 77459

Jpcl Management Corp Takbo P O Box 18873 77496

Booker Andre Andre’s Hair Studio 27450 Town Center Blvd 77479

Jpcl Management Corp Beehive P O Box 18873 77496

Marez Aaron Exclusive Framing And Detail 3007 Deer Ldg 77459

North American Business Ent Inc Crescent Construction 12603 Sw Freeway #670 77477

Bryant Stephanie Watts (+) Stylistic Designs 2626 South Loop W 77054

United Dry Clean Quail Valley Cleaners 1300 Turtle Creek 77489

Edwards Sharon (+) Texas Investment Firm Lp 6507 Taimer Ct 77479

Khilnani Gul Satellite Guy 18731 Parfield Ln 77084

Texas Investment Firm (+) Louisiana Financial Consulting Firm 6603 W Fuqua 77489

Waite Gina L Tobbles 21607 Lakeview Rd 77430

Texas Investment Firm (+) Presidential Tax Service 9898 Westpark 77035 Texas Investment Firm (+) Presidential Nails Ii 9898 Westpark 77035 Texas Investment Firm (+) Colbert/Ball Tax Service 6603 W Fuqua 77489 Clarke Whitfield Auto Collision 8519 Richard Road 77053

Peirce James E Jam Motorsports 13003 Murphy Rd E-1 77477

Flores Justin Lee Justin Lee Photography 6140 Highway 6 #291 77459

Demetrio Arcira Industria Equipment 2203 Trail West St 77478

Schier Mark E Tables 5727 Ames Crossing 77479

Flores Justin Beloved Apparel 6140 Highway 6 #291 77459

Brown Bryant C3 Enterprises 6230 Clay Ridge 77053

Williams Tanya L T’s Cheesecake And More 5606 Sage Willow Ln 77583

Mcgrew Jason Van Mcgrewonline 7023 Brockington Dr 77494

Dostal Nedra D-Bowz And Accessories 5140 Baker Rd 77461

Lott Marvalette Mother Nature Naturals P O Box 1171 77497 Dawson Alice Lavish Lavish Designs By Dawson 20610 Rainbow Granite 77407 Villarreal Jennefer C (+) A Family Affair Treats 9215 Gene St 77461 Garcia Santiago (+) Garcia’s Landscaping 5923 Jerry St 77583 Surette Arthur A Ii Art Surette Electric 610 Kyle Street 77478 Smi Roofing Inc Cmt 4814 Plato Park Dr 77479 White Richard F Custom Commercial Custodial & Construction Services 1126 San Jacinto St 77471

December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

49

Data Beat

NOVEMBER 2010 Sales Tax Allocation Comparison Summary Reports Sales Tax Allocation Comparison Summary reports present data about monthly local sales and use tax allocation payments to local sales taxing jurisdictions.

These net payments represent monies identified for the local jurisdictions since the previous month’s distribution. These reports will allow you to compare current year sales and use tax payments with the previous year. When used with other local economic indicators, they may help indicate present and future trends.

County/City Fort Bend

Net Payment This Period

Comp Payment Prior Year

% Change To Date

2009 Payments To Date

2008 Payments Change

Percent

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

21,522.48 7,127.64 37,462.82 1,262.24 87,640.48 551,749.76 36,906.41 4,103.81 4,122.04 365,096.74 1,028,603.10 11,634.11 1,248,703.81 3,437,055.78 0.00

26,263.00 7,720.17 40,025.19 1,546.51 89,496.95 574,551.35 31,533.66 4,062.03 2,969.61 347,382.84 947,971.47 5,293.19 1,218,608.55 3,509,651.20 1,250.71

-18.05% -7.67% -6.40% -18.38% -2.07% -3.96% 17.03% 1.02% 38.80% 5.09% 8.50% 119.79% 2.46% -2.06% -100.00%

221,476.80 61,921.66 349,992.00 14,633.05 894,618.42 5,549,624.46 332,641.27 43,701.90 66,940.78 3,808,702.92 10,319,738.00 106,422.65 11,935,298.43 34,734,097.41 25,926.26

281,643.06 82,141.51 330,948.49 14,289.47 958,412.74 5,521,281.41 289,673.06 46,002.73 39,051.90 3,861,677.57 9,752,153.60 55,004.05 12,693,727.36 36,324,370.94 15,255.01

-21.36% -24.61% 5.75% 2.40% -6.65% 0.51% 14.83% -5.00% 71.41% -1.37% 5.82% 93.48% -5.97% -4.37% 69.95%

COUNTY TOTAL

6,842,991.22

6,808,326.43

0.50%

68,465,736.01

70,265,632.90

-2.56%

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

City

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

50

Net Payment This Period

Comp Payment Prior Year

% Change To Date

2009 Payments To Date

44,081,062.67 19,156,526.86 19,881,050.34 12,515,048.49 10,139,874.84 8,073,235.73 6,126,633.09 5,056,967.67 6,164,278.98 5,310,154.56 5,439,021.83 4,754,626.13 4,562,023.98 4,515,833.45 3,893,131.66 3,437,055.78 3,417,730.69 3,580,321.31 3,464,828.22 3,164,191.42

41,803,741.27 18,090,812.86 18,575,523.07 11,624,687.95 9,198,605.72 7,917,026.34 5,545,766.14 4,880,768.64 5,503,560.68 4,951,139.96 4,777,761.73 4,356,869.16 4,444,628.59 4,405,893.23 3,426,965.45 3,509,651.20 3,430,670.64 2,985,447.91 3,181,772.21 3,067,006.65

5.44% 5.89% 7.02% 7.65% 10.23% 1.97% 10.47% 3.61% 12.00% 7.25% 13.84% 9.12% 2.64% 2.49% 13.60% -2.06% -0.37% 19.92% 8.89% 3.16%

436,912,296.75 192,600,902.62 189,515,003.79 126,748,006.29 92,844,640.33 76,415,416.77 63,117,726.18 57,119,299.63 54,670,531.86 52,500,874.68 51,704,853.51 50,034,465.61 45,745,260.04 41,041,038.42 37,376,676.37 34,734,097.41 33,300,007.00 32,881,883.92 31,487,530.05 30,988,918.94

Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

2008 Payments Change

452,429,854.86 187,645,917.00 190,917,037.60 120,855,330.96 90,787,813.26 74,401,188.64 59,393,292.76 54,099,136.93 51,297,388.58 52,427,014.12 53,081,558.13 49,700,079.72 45,354,345.18 43,338,114.24 34,464,291.33 36,324,370.94 33,172,975.70 32,346,778.55 29,491,719.31 32,279,008.64

Percent

-3.42% 2.64% -0.73% 4.87% 2.26% 2.70% 6.27% 5.58% 6.57% 0.14% -2.59% 0.67% 0.86% -5.30% 8.45% -4.37% 0.38% 1.65% 6.76% -3.99%

Data Beat

Commercial Building Permits

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

TYPE OF PERMIT

VALUE

OWNER/CONTRACTOR

Juvenile Detention Center/SLI Group

RICHMOND 122 Golfview Dr

Commercial Building

$40,000

1601 Liberty St

Commercial Building

$275,000

500 Houston St

Commercial Building

$42,000

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial & Residential)

10/01/10-10/31/10

$365,000

6801 Diotics Research Dr

Commercial Building

$2,252,600

24108 Soouthwest Fwy

Commercial Building

$100,000

AOB Commercial Construction

5192 Avenue H #A

Commercial Building

$150,000

Weingarten Realty Investors/Horizon Retail Construction

24102 Commercial Dr #102

Commercial Building

$20,000

Art Star Construction Inc.

1420 Avenue H

Commercial Building

$11,900

Whitten Jeffrey L & Jennifer A/Duran’s Carpentry & Roofing

1415 8th St

Commercial Building

$12,100

Taeco 14 LLC.Antonio’s Home Remodeling

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial & Residential)

10/01/10-10/31/10

$2,568,404

12620 W Airport Blvd Ste 130

Commercial Addition

$82,554

ARI-Sugar Land Business Park L/Westpoint Electric

1470 First Colony Blvd

Commercial Addition

$35,000

API Realty, LLC/Generators of Houston

1235 Lake Pointe Pkwy Ste 202

Commercial Buildout

$40,180

Lake Pointe Parkway Properties/Hatimi Construction Inc.

1235 Lake Pointe Pkwy Ste 201

Commercial Buildout

$42,140

Lake Pointe Parkway Properties/Hatimi Construction Inc.

1235 Lake Pointe Pkwy Ste 101

Commercial Buildout

$47,500

Lake Pointe Parkway Properties/Hatimi Construction Inc.

16655 Southwest Fwy Ste 100

Commercial Buildout

$851,000

TMH Medical Office Buildings/Gen-Tech Services LLC (GC)

1447 State Hwy 6 Ste 130

Commercial Buildout

$265,170

Embree Construction Group, Inc.

12620 W Airport Blvd Ste 130

Commercial Buildout

$1,583,000

2245 Texas Dr Ste 200

Commercial Buildout

$702,325

Town Center Lakeside, LTD/D E Harvey Builders, Inc.

15870 Southwest Fwy Ste 300

Commercial Buildout

$42,500

Lake Pointe Town Center, LTD/JT Commercial Group

15830 Southwest Fwy Ste 200

Commercial Buildout

$230,000

Lake Pointe Town Center, LTD/American Allied Construction

927 Julie Rivers Dr

Commercial New

$992,505

August Companies

13126 Jess Pirtle Blvd

Commercial New

$2,700,000

200 Gillingham Ln

Commercial Remodel

$46,511

Schlumberger Technology Corporation/Southern Facility Srv & Const

16535 Southwest Fwy Ste 415

Commercial Remodel

$48,000

First Colony Mall, LLC/Quality Cabinets and More

1403 State Hwy 6 Ste 600

Commercial Remodel

$39,000

Silverlake Ventrures, LLC/Eaton Homes Inc.

2210 Lone Star Dr

Commercial Remodel

$30,000

Town Center Lakeside, LTD/Imperial Performing Arts, Inc.

1600 State Hwy 6 Ste 400

Commercial Remodel

$47,053

KBS Offices at Kensington, LLC/Preferred Contracting Services

16722 W Grand Pkwy S Ste A

Commercial Remodel

$46,000

Global Millennium Partners

2022 Colonist Park Dr

Commercial Remodel

$342,819

16535 Southwest Fwy Ste 770

Commercial Remodel

$39,200

First Colony Mall, LLC/L & L Construction, LTD

15140 Southwest Fwy Ste 110

Commercial Remodel

$51,003

One Sugar Lakes Professional C/Livving Improvements

16659 Southwest Fwy Ste 235

Commercial Remodel

$31,985

TMH Medical Office Buildings/South Coast Const Services, Inc.

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial & Residential)

10/01/10-10/31/10

$8,526,704

Polly Ryon Hostpital/Owner Fort Bend Museum Assoc., Inc./Owner

ROSENBERG Biotics Building Partnership

SUGAR LAND

ARI-Sugar Land Business Park L/Meridian Design Build LLC

Tifflyn Comp/Chain Group, LLC

Ft Bend ISD/Divisionone Construction LP

December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

51

Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame announces local inductees

By Barbara Magana Robertson

By Barbara Magana Robertson

F

ort Bend County has seen its share of sports’ heroes. Home to NFL legends, Olympic Gold medalists and NBA AllStars, now, two of Fort Bend’s life-long residents will be inducted into the Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame. Sam Magana and Joe “Smokey” Davis have been announced as inductees into the Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame at the Fort Worth Stockyards. Both men have been life-long friends and have shared a commitment to the sport of rodeo.

The Texas Rodeo Hall of Fame honors those who have competed at an elite level, served as ambassadors of the sport and those who continue to contribute to the western lifestyle. “We are fortunate to be able to induct two men with such a rich history - two living legends,” said Texas Rodeo Hall of Fame Board President Don Howell.

“This year, we had more nominations then years past. The 2011 inductees are a remarkable group”.

Sam Magana’s trail to the Hall of Fame started at the tender age of 13. He broke, bred, trained and rode horses for a living. As a teenager, he began riding bucking bulls at rodeos and soon started earning money for his efforts. His rodeo career spans several decades, and he was a lead contender in the original Southern Rodeo Association. “I was doing what I knew to do. It was just the way I lived my life,” said Magana. He competed in rodeos all over the country in the bull riding and saddle bronc riding events. He also competed in Madison Square Garden, Kansas City and in countless rodeos throughout Texas. Magana was able to support his wife and eight children on his winnings. “Times were tough. When my third son was born, I was able to pay the hospital bill with my rodeo earnings,” recalled Magana.

Smokey Davis’s road to the Hall of Fame is a family tradition.

Sam Magana in 1963.

Big Thank you! Here Smokey Davis is being honored for his 20 plus years of dedication to the FBCFA.

52

Sam Magana in 1963.

His father, Joe Davis, was inducted in 2001. Smokey and his family ran the Rafter “D” Rodeo Company for years. Four generations of the Davis family helped produce rodeos for county fairs, professional cowboy associations and for numerous dignitaries. “I think it’s a real honor,” said Davis. “What a great thing this is.”

Smokey’s rodeo roots go back to the days of his rodeo career. He competed in calf roping, steer wrestling, steer roping, bareback riding and bull riding. But, his passion was to produce rodeos. In 1978, in a joint venture with his father, they started Rafter “D” Rodeo Company.

Magana and Davis are patriarchs of their respective families.

The families have known each other a lifetime, coming together at numerous rodeos throughout the years. Both men are quick to give credit to their wives and children for their accomplishments. “I could not have done it without my wife. She is the true backbone of all my successes,” credited Sam of his wife Delia Magana. Smokey admitted, “I could not have done it without my family. Everyone had a part in making our rodeo company what it is.”

The Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo recently honored both men for their continued dedication to the youth of the county and the sport of rodeo. “We were just thrilled to be able to honor both Sammy and Smokey thanking them and being able to recognize them for all they have done,” said Fort Bend Fair and Rodeo Executive board member, Brad Bowman. “They deserve it.”

World champion cowboys such as Fred Whitfield, Joe Beaver and Cody Ohl have at one time or another borrowed a horse, a rope or have been given some type of help by Sam Magana throughout the years. In fact, Magana helped so many youths during the late 70’s and early 80’s, he was affectionately known as “Coach” around the rodeo arenas. All of the eight Magana children rodeoed at the youth level and some continued into the collegiate and professional Continued on page 82

Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

level. “Dad raised all of us to rope, ride and respect. Those were his 3 R’s of life,” said Magana’s son, Rick Magana. “It did not matter if you were a son or daughter - rodeo was just part of growing up in our family.”

Davis and his Rafter “D” Rodeo Company have seen scores of World Champions come to their rodeos. “All the cowboys would come to my rodeos,” said Davis. “Times are different now. Back then, my rodeos were for the cowboys. We put on an honest and fair rodeo.” Smokey is thankful to all the committees and boards that supported his rodeo business through the years. One of Smokey’s favorite rodeos was Rosenberg. He was the stock contractor for the Fort Bend Fair and Rodeo for over

Sam Magana and Smokey Davis.

20 years. “Rosenberg was a big rodeo, by far one of my best rodeos,” said Davis. “Dad ran a good rodeo, but he prided himself on being a friend to the cowboys,” said Davis’ son Ronnie Davis. “We grew up having an extended family - our rodeo family.”

The two men are honored and humbled by their pending inductions scheduled for April 2011. “It’s just wonderful and exciting being able to go into the Hall with Sammy.

We have been friends since the 1940’s. Not many people can say that,” shared Davis.

Sam added, “As children, we lived less than a mile from each other. We never dreamed as kids about something like this.”

For both rodeo cowboys, they are living the dream. Their induction is the first to be held in the new home of the Texas Rodeo Hall of Fame in the historical Cowtown Coliseum in Fort Worth. For event information on the induction ceremony or events, visit www.texasrodeocowboy.com. H December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

53

R

E

A

L

E

S

T

A

T

E

Commercial Real Estate

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

Fort Bend commercial real estate velocity increasing For the most part, commercial real estate practitioners in Fort Bend held their breath in 2009 as the wave of economic uncertainty spread over our market. Over the past decade, we had enjoyed one of the more robust real estate markets in the country. Economists have described the collapse of 2008 as a “perfect economic storm” or an “economic tsunami”. Its’ resulting impact on banking and the availability of real estate capital brought real estate development activity to a standstill in Fort Bend and throughout the country.

History had shown that a real estate downturn was inevitable and is part of

“the real estate cycle” that is taught in every first year economics class. In robust economies and markets, real estate development activity continues to expand until the market reaches a point of excess supply. When the market reaches a point where there are more buildings on the ground than there are companies willing to pay the asking prices to occupy those buildings, prices begin to adjust and the contraction phase of the real estate cycle begins. Fortunately, the commercial real estate markets in Houston and Fort Bend were fairly stable compared to other areas of the country (supply did not significant-

ly exceed demand) when we were hit by the economic tidal wave in late 2008. Due to that, we are well positioned for a recovery. We have basically “treaded water” over the past two years. Although a number of property owners and tenants struggled to remain in the black, real estate activity continued, albeit at a much slower pace.

The majority of that was leasing activity and was comprised primarily of existing companies resizing and relocating.

We are starting to see signs, however, that the tide is beginning to turn. Our office has seen measurable surges in the velocity of commercial real estate activity

Understanding the Market Your Fort Bend Commercial Real Estate Experts

Now

Colliers International is the second largest commercial real estate service provider in the world with 480 offices in 61 countries.

Kolbe Curtice

30 Years Experience Multi-Discipline

Jim Pratt

25 Years Experience Office/Industrial

John Novak

7 Years Experience Medical/Office

Jason Dillee

5 Years Experience Land/Industrial

Jason Scholtz

1 Year Experience Office/Retail

Call us for assistance with Fort Bend office, retail, industrial or commercial land sales and leasing.

Accelerating success.

15999 City Walk | Suite 250 | Sugar Land, TX 77479 | +1 281 494 4769 | www.curticecommercial.com

54

Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

in Fort Bend over the past few months. Although less than the robust activity of a few years ago, the activity of late has been within all commercial property categories, including office, retail, industrial and land. More importantly, it has consisted of 1) not only leasing activity, but also an increased volume of sales and new development activity; and 2) new companies entering the market.

The clearest indicator of an improving commercial real estate market is an increase in the sources of capital that is available for business expansion. For that reason, I have become increasingly more optimistic through 2010 as a greater number of commercial lenders and mortgage brokers have contacted and forwarded us information on their newly available commercial financing programs. We are seeing that improvement in the capital markets translate into real deals. For the first time in over two years, a number of clients in our deal “pipeline” are looking to acquire land for new construction. This spike in property sales and new construction activity is significant as it confirms the increased availability of funds from lenders. That will be the key to sustained market activity.

Over the years I have always tried to look at the proverbial glass of water as being half full rather than half empty. I think that philosophy has served me well in this business. I will continue to take that approach this year as we enter the holiday season. I am optimistic that the economic storm clouds will continue to clear and we will see improvement in the year ahead.

Have a wonderful holiday season and a profitable 2011!

Kolbe M. Curtice CCIM, CLS is a licensed Texas Real Estate Broker and is the Managing Director of Colliers International - Fort Bend., 15999 City Walk, Suite 250, Sugar Land, Texas, 77479. He can be reached at 281-494-4769 phone / 281-494-3227 fax / kolbe. curtice@colliers.com. H

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OFFICE SPACE starting

per month

Up to 5000 sq. ft. Available Ready to Move-In on Hwy 90 Call: 281-494.7410 www.FBOffice.net

se nd For Leaancliff Sugar La6,000 SF Flex Space Immediately Avail.

St 10700

Property Features Rent: $12.50 MG TI: Negotiable Parking: Ample Parking

281-931-7775

Location: Near Sugar Land with great access to Beltway 8 & Hwy 59 Amenities: Grade Level Loading Dock, Building Renovated in 2009 with beautiful finishes 650 North Sam Houston Pkwy E., Suite 108, Houston, Texas

OFFICE SPACE

HENRY GARZA III... continued from page 29

work to destroy, or ablate, the uterine lining, or endometrium.

The procedure is very safe and yielding excellent results.

For additional safety, we also request that patients bring someone along to provide a ride home. And even though this is a minor office procedure, we do emphasize that follow-up is important - approximately two weeks following the procedure.

An additional benefit is that many insurance carriers require only an office co-pay for the procedure.

The procedure should not be considered as a form of contraception and we generally prefer that the patient is done with childbearing before we consider her a candidate.

A board certified physician of obstetrics and gynecology, Dr. Henry Garza III is a graduate of Baylor College of Medicine and has been in private practice for over 12 years. He is currently the Chairman of the OB-GYN department at OakBend Medical Center. Dr. Garza has a particular interest in minimally invasive Gynecology and office-based procedures. He lives in Fort Bend County with his wife and sons.

399

$

FOR

L EASE

» approx. 1,500 sq. ft. » will subdivide » prime location » easy US 59 access

» phone & internet bundle available

John Novak 281-494-4769

December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

55

Banks

To Be Listed Call

SERVICE DIRECTORY

281-690-4201

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

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

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

Auto Repair / Maintenance Auto Central-Automotive Service & Sales 281-499-9684 www.autocentral.biz david@autocentral.biz. David Fauvelle, 2526 Fifth Street, Stafford, Texas 77477, Fax: 281-499-0183, Fast, friendly and professional automotive repair.

AAA approved auto repair.

Charlton’s Body Repair 281-499-1126 www.charltonsbodyrepair.com.

Chuck Charlton, 1131 Staffordshire @ 5th St., Stafford, TX 77477, Fax: 281-499-1694, Complete collision repair. Frame & Unibody straightened. Expert computer color matching.

Custom painting & pin stripping. Honest service.

79 Years Strong and 3 Generations Proud!

Colony One Auto Center 281-980-4440 www.colonyoneauto.com Rod Tate, 1131 Dulles Avenue, Stafford, TX 77477, Fax: 281-261-0048, Complete state of the art automotive repair & maintenance facility.

First Tire & Automotive 281-313-2886 www.firsttireandauto.com Craig Popp, owner, 3 Sugar Land Locations.

960 Eldridge, 281-313-2886 & 2303 Williams Trace Blvd. 281-980-2666 (First Colony), 20015 Southwest Freeway. 281-343-5666 (Greatwood), Diagnostic testing and evaluation, Manufacturer’s routine recommended maintenance, domestic and foreign vehicle repairs, AAA approved, ASE certified.

Ask about our Fleet Service!

56

Founders Bank 281-325-5000 www.foundersbanktx.com Email: customerservice@foundersbanktx.com.

Fax: 281-325-5050. Fort Bend County only.

Locally owned and managed bank. 4690 Sweetwater Blvd., Sugar Land 77479 The State Bank of Texas 281-494-6686 www.tsbot.com nbb@tsbot.com. Nicki Black, 13010 Murphy Road, Stafford, TX 77477, Fax: 281-494-6747, , Locally and independently owned - our prime interest is you!

Sterling Bank - Fort Bend 281-277-0100 12840 Southwest Freeway, Stafford, TX 77477, Fax: 281-277-0223, Serving owner-operated businesses with local decision makers.

Blinds / Window Coverings Budget Blinds - 281-416-8499 www.budgetblinds.com bdimmitt@budgetblinds.com. Bob Dimmitt, 1306 FM 1092, Suite 401, Missouri City, TX 77459, Fax: 832-220-8051, Custom window coverings, personal style consultant, “expert fit” measuring and installation.

Country Clubs Riverbend Country Club 281-269-2526 www.riverbendcountryclub.org triciarbcc@gmail.com. Tricia Hawks, 1214 Dulles Avenue, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Conveniently located in the heart of Sugar Land, Riverbend Country Club is just 25 minutes south of downtown Houston, Texas.

Established in 1957, Riverbend continues its tradition as Fort Bend County’s only member owned club.

Whether you’re looking for championship golf, fine dining, pools, tennis, fitness facilities or a wide variety of social and golf activities Riverbend is definitely the place to belong.

The Houstonian Golf & Country Club 281-494-4245 www.houstoniangolf.com Nicole Scarbrough, Membership Private golf & country club, *Limited membership available.

Fire Extinguisher Service Gillen Fire Extinguisher Service Commercial/Residential 281-342-6969 www.GillenServices.com Gillen Fire Extinguisher Service provides a full line of fire extinguisher inspections, sales and services, as well as lighted exit sign inspections and service.

Our highly trained staff can even provide fire extinguisher training for your employees. For all of your safety needs, call Gillen Fire Extinguisher.

Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

Financial Products & Services Sugar Creek Financial Group 281-565-2266 www.sugarcreekgroup.com robroy@windstream.net. Robert H. Roy, ChFC, Fax: 281-565-2277, 12946 Dairy Ashford #430, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Life, Health, Pensions, Investments for businesses and individuals.

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

Home Health Care Texas State Healthcare 281-208-4344 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 Insurance Solutions of Texas 281-565-2222 • 281-341-5060 www.insurancesolutionsoftexas.com Jay Harris, Auto, Home, Business, Flood Insurance.

14140 Southwest Freeway, Suite 150, Sugar Land, Texas 77478. 281-565-2222, Fax 281-565-3333.

2515 Ave. H, Rosenberg, Texas 77471. 281-341-5060, Fax 281-341-5558.

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

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

Medical Billing Complete Business Solutions 1-888-445-8609 cbsolutions@callmykate.com www.cbsbillingservices.com Complete Business Solutions, the medical billing professionals, is dedicated to improving your cash flow results. Our goals include: lower billing costs, savings of up to 50% by outsourcing with us, reduced rejection rates, faster payment of claims, average of 14 days response. To find out more about this and other services, visit our website for a FREE practice analysis and 50% off the initial set-up fee.

Nails P&L Nails – Sugar Land • 281-277-5072 PL Nails – Sienna Plantation • 281-778-8558 PL Nails - Katy • 281-347-1122 www.plnails.com Providing the most luxurious service available, PL Nails has Fort Bend county covered with locations in Sugar Land, Sienna Plantation, and Katy. Whether it be nails, body waxing, massage, or lots more, the expertly trained staff at PL Nails is committed to making your experience most pleasurable! Located at 4777 Sweetwater Blvd in the Kroger Shopping Center, Sugar Land, 281-277-5072. Located at 8880 Hwy 6 South, Suite 110 in the HEB Center, Missouri City, 281-7788558. Located at 25681 Nelson Way in the HEB Center near Katy Mills Mall, Katy, 281-347-1122.

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.

To Advertise Call 281-690-4201

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, in house optical with a large selection of frames and contact lenses, medical management of eye infections and diseases.

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 and State Highway 6, Fax: 281-494-3227, Brokerage, Development, Investment & Tenant Representation, 25 yrs exp. in Fort Bend.

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

All services available in Houston and surrounding counties.)

Pest Control - Commercial / Residential Gillen Pest Control 281-342-969 - Fort Bend 979-532-5701 - Wharton www.GillenPestControl.com Family owned and operated in Fort Bend and Wharton Counties since 1963, Gillen Pest Control’s highly trained professionals know where bugs hide, what their eating and breeding habits are, and how to get rid of them. They try to avoid the use of chemicals inside by working with you to create a barrier on the outside of your home or business, thus keeping those unwanted pests at bay. From the first time we visit your home or business, you will recognize we are no ordinary pest control company!

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

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

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

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.

Janet Williams, Realtor – 832.724.4894 Realm Real Estate Professional www.har.com/jlwilliams janetw4co@yahoo.com 14090 Southwest Frwy, Ste 102. Sugar Land, TX 77478, It’s a great time to buy a HUD foreclosure with FHA financing because you just pay $100 down payment + closing cost.

Call for details. Providing services for buyers, sellers, renters. Also specialize in short sales for residential and commercial.

Staffing / Recruiting / Job Seeking Technical ProSource Meeting Your IT Staffing Needs 713-272-8800 www.TechnicalProSource.com Serving Fort Bend companies since 1989 by providing all levels of IT personnel, contract, contract to hire and direct-hire. We are the IT experts! To save our clients time we offer Video Resumes which allow you to move faster through the interview process.

Recognized in Forbes magazine as a leading Staffing Firm Provider. Recognized in Texas Monthly as Most Dependable Staffing Firm and voted Best of Staffing by CareerBuilder. We look forward to helping with your staffing needs.

Video Services

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.

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

December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

57

SERVICE DIRECTORY

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.

Amici serves superb Italian dishes

F

lames leap into the air as Jeff Vallone prepares one of his signature dishes for a patron at Amici in Sugar Land. Vallone is the son of celebrated restauratuer Tony Vallone and grew up around the kitchens of the famous Tony’s restaurants owned by his father. Vallone reminisces about the three Tony’s that existed in Houston – one on Sage, one on Post Oak and the most recent “over the top Tony’s” on Richmond.

The food, service, and ambiance are all in the Tony’s tradition – although the Rauschenberg artwork featured in the Tony’s on Richmond has not quite made it to Sugar Land. Vallone and his good friend, Chef Bruce McMillian, worked at Tony’s and Grotto in Houston before embarking on their venture in Sugar Land. By the size of the crowds on Sunday evenings, Amici, is certainly loved in the community. Families with young children, dating couples, husbands and wives, and friends all make up the informal crowd for dinner.

Amici, which means friend in Italian, is the perfect venue to enjoy a family gathering or the right place to experience a special celebration. An extensive wine selection is offered to diners and Bruce and Jeff provide Amici Special Selections that are superior in both quality and value, and are specially picked to complement menu items. Wines can be purchased by the glass or bottle and prices range from $7 a glass or $20 per bottle to $315 for Dom Perignon Champagne. A wine/private party room is available for gatherings of 25-50.

Antipasti, zuppa & insalata, handmade pasta, pizza & calzone are some of the Italian favorites featured at Amici. While waiting for your appetizer or entrée, servers bring baskets of delicious pumpkin seed bread and Italian sourdough accompanied by a zesty olive oil garlic dipping condiment. The Stracciatella, soup with spinach, egg, pasta and wonderfully flavored chicken meatballs in Brodo is a good beginning for your meal. The Tomatoes & Mozzarella di Bufala with freshly made Mozzarella and an

Fabulous selection of wines at Amici.

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Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

Amici’s mountainous selection of wines.

excellent savory vinaigrette dressing is also a great start to your entrée.

Whether you order the salmon special of the day or Veal Marsala, dinner is extremely colorful and inviting. The orange salmon is accented with bright red cherry tomatoes, yellow peppers, fresh lightly-browned garlic, and carrots, all atop a bed of dark green garlic infused spinach. The salmon texture is perfect with a slightly crunchy crust and melt-in-your-mouth fillet. The Veal Marsala is also plated on a bed of dark green garlic spinach covered in oversized brown mushroom slices and covered with Marsala Sauce.

Dessert is a tough choice to make with Crème Brulee, Elizabeth Vallone’s Cheesecake, Blackberry Crostata with Vanilla Gelato and Blackberry Sauce, Gelato Caprino with fresh strawberries and strawberry sauce, Tiramisu Cappuccino, Cannoli and others offered on the menu. The Cappuccino Cake is affirmed by server Brenna, as being one of the all time favorites.

Located in Sugar Land Town Center, Amici caters to the lunch and dinner crowds, with a brunch on Sundays. For busy Minute Maid executives, the restaurant offers an Express Lunch at a great price. Amici is uniquely located on Sugar Land’s vibrant Town Square looking out on the city plaza. You can dine under the stars at outdoor tables or in the beautiful relaxing blue-lit dining room.

Jeff and Bruce share a desire to make every visit perfect. With their passion for superb food and flair for the artistic, they desire to make sure that first time visitors will become regulars and regulars will be like family. For more information on Amici, visit the restaurant at 16089 City Walk Drive or access the website at amicitownsquare.com.

AURA: Cuisine with an “inch” of French

By Elsa Maxey Infused American and French cuisine. That is what AURA, a charming restaurant with a lot of character, focuses on at its location at the Township in Missouri City. Referred to as a refined dining experience, the décor of the restaurant compliments the creative dishes, part of daily specials that may change from time to time listed on a tall, elegantly framed blackboard. The restaurant’s innovative talent making this possible comes from French Chef Frédéric Perrier. He’s really French not just a French chef, and he offers flavors from his native country in every bite of what he serves. AURA’s menu features creations such as beef tenderloin with Cognac peppercorn sauce and pan-seared foie gras with apples and port wine caramel created by the talented and popular food connoisseur. There is also a standard-- truffled mac and cheese. All this almost makes one say “ooh la la!”

Renowned for his mastery of French classical and bistro cooking, Chef Perrier is widely acclaimed for his creativity and inventive nature.

You see, he’s also introduced Southwestern, South American, and Asian influences to his cooking. This interpretive ability to create dishes for the Southeast Texas regional palate has garnered him a loyal following.

Chef Perrier’s most recent moment in the limelight recognized his beloved AURA as one of Houston’s Top Ten new restaurants. The best part of it, he says is “enjoying career-high word of mouth advertising.”

He also enjoys “attracting ‘groupies’ from three counties with his new AURA. “And why not…he’s got wine tasting events accompanied by hors d’oeuvres and cheeses with over a dozen wines from around the world to be sampled at a time. He also has a Sunset Menu on Sunday that is available for viewing online and even sent by email to those registering on the restaurant’s website.

Chef Frédéric a native of Lyon, France, relates memories of his first apprenticeship that led him to his artistic passion for cooking. All this started when he was fifteen. He was mentored by a high profile restaurateur. “By Georges Blanc, the renowned chef-owner of the eponymous restaurant in Vonnas,” states Chef Frederic.

Then Chef Frederic went to Paul Bocuse near Lyons, where he enhanced what had already piqued his interest. This was followed by L’Oasis on the Cote d’Azur and other Michelin two and three-star restaurants before spending a year on the island of Saint Barthelemy in the French West Indies. He did this before moving to New York City.

In the Big Apple Chef Frederic worked in several restaurants and he gained national recognition as Executive Chef of La Cité, an acclaimed French restaurant in midtown Manhattan. He was highly praised in Gourmet, Bon Appetite, The New Yorker, Food & Wine, Esquire, and the Wall Street Journal, among many other publications.

Following La Cité, he opened F•Stop, also in New York City. He did it at the same time that he served as the private chef for the French Ambassador to the United Nations. It was a four year stint and during this time, Chef Perrier was the requested chef for many private dinner

Chef Perrier

parties hosted by and for numerous celebrities and political figures from around the world.

When Chef Perrier arrived in Houston about 13 years ago, the culinary skills he brought with him became part of the scene at Grille 5115, which he co-owned. He also served as executive chef there. Other exciting ventures then took him to Café Perrier in Houston in 1999, and Perrier Seafood in Missouri City, both of which opened to rave reviews from the Houston area and Texas press. This kind of exposure further helped establish him as a premiere chef and culinary artist.

His latest enterprise is represented by the opening of the AURA Restaurant in 2007, and the neighboring Meat and Greet Boutique, a European style butcher shop and gourmet deli he opened about a year ago. With the cuisine he offers in this part of Fort Bend County, he says he has come to be known for “innovative American (food) with an ‘inch’ of French.”

Special momentous occasions for Chef Perrier include serving “as a special guest chef to the James Beard House,” he says. This is where has was named a Rising Star in American Cuisine in 1991.

In November Chef Perrier opened Hoggs n’ Chicks, across from Sienna Plantation on State Highway 6. Another new eatery owned by him. With a casual atmosphere, it will feature chicken, pork, beef and other delights that go by the name of naked dogs, fried shrimp with Tabasco pulp remoulade and others. There will be desserts like peach cobbler with vanilla ice cream and also profiteroles. “It’s all fresh,” he advises. “If we don’t have something you want today, come back,” adds the chef.

Community-wise, Chef Perrier is generous with his time and talent and assists numerous charitable events. He and his wife, Michelle, a native Houstonian, have been married for 14 years. They met in New York City, when they both worked together at a restaurant. They now live in Sienna Plantation and have two sons, Freddie, 13; and Lex, 11.

As for Michelle’s role in Frederic’s business life, “she’s the boss,” he says.

During the interview at AURA, a couple looked over his way and appreciatively said, “absolutely wonderful.” Frederic’s more than appropriate response…”merci beaucoups!”

December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

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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.

Aristotle Grill The Greeks have landed in Sugar Land!

Owner Hamid Panah and his staff have just opened on the corner of Hwy 6 and Hwy 59 providing the best Greek dishes in the area! Everything from appetizers to traditional Greek salads to plates specials and traditional Gyro sandwiches, this is the place for a nice, relaxed atmosphere and elegant Greek dining! Aristotle Grill also caters employee lunches, business meetings, and corporate gatherings. Their goal is to leave their guests impressed! Open 7 days, Sun-Thurs 11 am -9 pm, Fri-Sat 11 am -10 pm. 2109-B Highway 6 @ Highway 59 South, Sugar Land. 281-277-7787. $ WB AURA Restaurant Chef/Owner Frédéric Perrier brings over 30 years experience to his newest venture - AURA. In an upscale yet casually comfortable setting, Innovative American Cuisine reigns and is highlighted in the numerous Daily Specials. AURA features only the finest, freshest ingredients. From Lunch Salads & Sandwiches to Dinner with Crabcakes and Filet Au Poivre to Diver Sea Scallops with Boneless Braised Short Rib ‘Surf & Turf’ appetizers and Farm Raised Chilean Sea Bass. No need to go to Houston or into Sugar Land for truly high quality dining experience... you will easily find it at AURA (without ‘Big Restaurant’ prices!) at Township Square - Missouri City.

Lunch Mon-Sat 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 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 60

Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

Italian sausage and put it in pizzas, pastas, and sandwiches.

Enjoy appetizers, salads, pastas, sandwiches, pizzas and desserts in there dining room, large patio, or full bar with large screen TV’s. Happy hour is Monday - Thursday 3 to 7pm. This casual dining experience is available at two locations in Fort Bend.

Call either location for take-out or delivery. 7425 Hwy 6 S (Just North of Sienna) 832-947-0440 / 6825 S Fry Rd (Fry & 99) 281-395-6746. www.candelaris.com. $ • FB Charlie’s Restaurants and Catering, Poboys and Grill Two locations in Fort Bend. Cajun home cooked food. The “special” plate is a favorite with a choice of one meat, two sides and a roll. The meat choices range from brisket, sausage, and meat loaf, to baked chicken, turkey/dressing, ham, salisbury steak and spaghetti/meatballs. Home made desserts are a favorite feature. Catering is available for large to small functions, banquets, corporate or organization luncheons/dinners. 4719 Lexington @ Dulles, 281-499-0808 and 1250 Texas Parkway, 281-499-2233. $ Chef for You Offers take out dinners prepared from scratch by professional chefs. Online ordering; Customized Catering Menus Available; Corporate Catering for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

Homemade Cakes, Cookies, and Brownies; Soups and Salads.

New menus offered each week at www.chef4u.net • 9920 Highway 90-A, Suite B-260, Sugar Land • 281-313-CHEF (2433). $ Fernando’s Latin Cuisine We are pleased to announce the arrival of Fernando’s Latin Cuisine-An exotic culinary adventure! Started by, Fernando Echeverria, the same owner of Los Andes by the Compact Center in Houston-Another wonderful Latin American restaurant.

Fernando’s Latin Cuisine is located in the same building where

Ruth’s Chris used to be. Featured dishes include Empanadas appetizer, Fileton, (Filet mignon) and Asada Y Camarones, Casually called the surf and turf. 14135 Southwest Freeway, in Sugar Land. 281-494-9087. wwww.fernandosrestaurants.com. $$ • FB Hickory Barn BAR-B-Q The Kiddy Brothers came to Houston with great BBQ on their minds. The first BBQ restaurant opened in 1953. Since then the family owned and operated business has been serving up great BBQ. Although times have changed, our idea of great BBQ hasn’t. Come by and see us. Catering available. • 11534 Wilcrest @ W. Belfort. 281-530-9382. $ J & L Café Homestyle Cookin’ like Grandma used to make! Joy Smith and Paul Jordan are back, and they’re cooking up a delightful assortment of homemade dishes to satisfy the heartiest of appetites. Since they opened their new restaurant, they’ve been serving up family recipes handed down for 3 generations. Stop

by J & L Café and enjoy Chicken and Dumplings, Smothered Oxtails, Meatloaf, Ribs, Fried Catfish, Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes, Okra, and Cornbread Dressing, to name just a few menu items and daily specials. The assortment of Desserts includes Peach Cobbler, Cheesecake and Banana Pudding, all guaranteed to make your taste buds smile! Joy Smith, coproprietor, worked as Personal Chef to Former Houston Juneor Lee Brown for many years. Whole Cornish Hens are available on Sundays. Breakfast served Tuesday-Saturday 6-9am, Open for Lunch and Dinner Tuesday-Sunday, Closed Mondays.

1110 FM 2234 on the border of Stafford & Missouri City. 281499-9895. $ Karl’s At The Riverbend Romantic Dining in the Country, across the creek from a horse farm. Swiss Chef Karl Camenzind’s menu features Angus steaks, Prime Rib, Wienerschnitzel, Trout Almondine and other fresh fish, Rack of Lamb, Steak and other wild game, Atkins specials, a budget weeknight menu offered along with the regular menu, plus a wonderful Sunday Brunch Buffet. Company Luncheons and Rehearsal Dinners invited. Open Tues-Sat for Dinner and Sunday Brunch 5011 FM 723 Richmond 281-238-9300 www. karlsrb.com Read our reviews at www.b4-u-eat.com. $$ • FB La Magia Cafe & Pizza If you are looking for casual dinning with an easy atmosphere then La Magia is just the place for you! La Magia Café & Pizza recipes and menu are based on almost 30 years of Italian cooking.

The dishes served at La Magia are prepared and cooked in the

traditional Italian way, using fresh ingredients and herbs, giving them a home cooked flavor since 1980. In addition to authentic Italian cooking, La Magia offers popular American dishes. The pizzas are made with medium crust and cooked in a stone oven.

This cooking process gives the dough a slow rise, for a true pizza flavor. All meals are prepared with extra virgin olive oil and the freshest ingredients and herbs. Open 7 days, Sun-Thurs 11 am -9 pm, Fri-Sat 11 am -10 pm. Lunch menu specials Mon – Fri. 3699 Highway 6 @ Settlers Way Blvd, Sugar Land. 281-5650366. $ WB 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 Lupitas Mexican Restaurant Jaime and Lupe Garcia have lived in Fort Bend for 36 years.

Twenty-three of those years have been spent in the restaurant business. If you want authentic Mexican food made from only the freshest ingredients and at a reasonable price, go to Lupitas Mexican Restaurant formerly Pico De Gallo Mexican Restaurant. The Garcias continually concentrate on customer satisfaction. That includes the quality and freshness of their food as well as the family atmosphere of their restaurant. Dine-In, Take-out, and Catering available. 3121 Highway 6, Sugar Land • Call 281-265-6556. $ • WB Mangola’s Fine Italian Restaurant Serving fine Italian food to Southwest Houston and Fort Bend Country for more than 20 years. Conveniently located at 11786 S. Wilcrest @ Highway 59 S. Open for Lunch and Dinner 7 Days a week. Check out our website www.mangolasrestaurant. com. Call 281-498-6790 for reservations or to schedule your special event.

Mantra Fine Indian Cuisine Discover India with exotic spices and aromatic flavors that will awaken your taste buds and lift you off your feet, we will make you feel like royalty. Mantra Fine Indian Cuisine offers Lunch Buffet and To-Go lunch options, that’s in your budget and leave you to come back for more. Mantra caters to all from spicy hot to mild flavors. We prepare our meals fresh and offer a wide selection of healthy choices. We have full menu and full bar and you can enjoy the evening out on our patio with your family or continued on page 63

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A Journey brings Fernando’s Latin Cuisine

By Elsa Maxey

E

l “Jimmy” Alcalde. It’s a beef tenderloin filet and baked jumbo shrimp named in honor of Sugar Land Mayor James Thompson that can be found at Fernando’s Latin Cuisine.

The restaurant with a romantic flair offers culinary flavors from Spain, Italy, Mexico and South America, and some of the menu entrees are named after who’s-who iconic personalities in Fort Bend such as County Judge Bob Hebert and other notables.

The force behind Fernando’s Latin Cuisine is Fernando. Fernando Echeverria is the owner of the restaurant with a neighborhood-feel. He is the chef, sometimes the host, the waiter and at times, the bus boy, he said. He mentioned that the restaurant’s catering capabilities will be expanding. Who knows, he just might make a delivery or two. Fernando is so hands-on that he’s the kind of person that will also personally wait on tables and take care of his guests.

One can tell his heart and soul is in the establishment of the eatery he founded in 2005 in Sugar Land. He talks about upand-coming new offerings like a salsa band promising to entice us to move about on the restaurant’s dedicated dance floor. He also takes particular pleasure in offering weekend diners live music performances until 10 p.m.

Just last month, Fernando’s Latin Cuisine celebrated a six year birthday under the lead of this local entrepreneur, whose restaurant continues to enjoy the patronage of those after Latin fusion dishes and pastas that are among favorites.

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Fernando, a native of Ecuador, shares his journey into the restaurant industry made possible when he came to the U.S. in 1974 by way of New York City. “I was only 13 when I arrived at JFK airport,” he said, when he was accompanied by his older brother “and stepped into this wonderful country with no idea of what our future held.” His mom met them at the airport. “I was so overwhelmed with emotions, happiness to finally be here,” he said, and worried about a language he did not speak.

Shortly thereafter when he was in high school, he started working at a restaurant.

“Three months later I was promoted to the salad/desserts department,” he proudly relates, and about seven months later, he began to

Fernando Echeverria plays the drums during and evening of entertainment.

Fort Bend Business Journal • December 2010

prepare and cook food. “By sixteen I was the assistant chef and even on my day off, I worked inside the main dining room, where I learned how to make and serve drinks along with many other restaurant details.” He later worked for a friend, who owned an Italian restaurant in Flushing, Queens, and says he learned the kitchen well, “but was even more enamored of the dining room and all the customers.”

Fernando then moved to Texas and first went to Dallas “where I worked in the sanitation department, collecting garbage.” Good pay, he said, but he missed the restaurant business, moved to Houston “and the fun began.” It started at Ninfa’s, “where I was the first waiter to make queso flameado tableside,” then he went on to Paesano’s Italian Restaurant, Carrabas, and then Rao’s, where he met many celebrities and became what he calls the unofficial waiter for the Houston Rockets. Fernando then took a leap of faith and bought his first restaurant in 1993 at the Greenway Plaza together with other business partners. He said that the restaurant’s name was changed to Los Andes in 1994, when the

Rockets won the NBA Championship, and quips about how they did so because of his cooking.

He decided to buy out all the partners and the restaurant was his. He then looked over this direction towards Fort Bend county and selected Sugar Land as his new home, celebrated for its acclaimed school district, where he would enroll his children. “I was left with little money and a lot of debt and it has taken me five years to catch up and get where I am today.”

In admiration of what was the former Ruth Chris Steak House site, where Fernando’s Latin Cuisine is now located,

Fernando says “not a day goes by that I don’t thank God for it.” He boasts about the restaurant’s ZAGAT certificate from 2008-2010, a coveted restaurant rating placing it in a highly respectable place in the dining industry.

After two weeks into the restaurant’s opening, Fernando said that with no advertising budget, “we got our first mention by a local newspaper, the Star.” Other media outlets followed and even a review in the Houston Chronicle last year voted the restaurant the “ultimate place to dine and dance.” The editor of Texas Monthly, says Fernando, sent him a letter of appreciation and it just may have precipitated the exceptional local review.

continued from page 61

friends. Mantra also offers special catering promotions for parties and formal functions or any event any size, host in our restaurant or choosing of your choice. Hours of Operation: Monday through Thursday, Friday to Sunday, Lunch: 11a.m. to 2:30p.m.

Lunch: 11a.m. to 2:30p.m. Dinner: 5:30pm to 10p.m. Dinner: 5:30pm to 11p.m.Come visit us at 15295 Southwest Freeway off of Williams Trace exit. For more information, contact us at 281-325-0071 or visit www.mantraofsugarland.com. $$ • FB Old Hickory Inn Barbecue More than 40 years in business in the Houston and Fort Bend area, Old Hickory Inn Barbecue is famous for their Old Fashion Hickory Smoked Barbecue and numerous Homemade Side Dishes, made fresh daily. They are available to cater your next event, for up to 3000 guests. In addition to great Barbecue, they make an awesome Gyro (Greek wrap featuring beef & lamb), and feature fruit cobbler, cream pies, rice pudding and cheesecake for dessert A casual dining experience in 3 convenient locations, with a drive-through window at the Highway 6 location. Open 7 days a week, Sunday-Thursday from 11am-9pm, and Friday & Saturday 11am-9:30pm. 3334 F.M. 1092 @ Hwy 6 Missouri City 281-499-8904 / 8000 Hwy 6 @ Beechnut 281-983-5020 / 5427 S. Braeswood @ Chimney Rock 713-723-8908. $ • WB Outback Steakhouse Inspired by Australia’s spirit of adventure, Outback Steakhouse has been an innovator in the culinary world by creating big, bold flavors using only the freshest ingredients. Voted #1 Best Steak in the 2009 Zagat Survey of National Full-Service Restaurant chains, Outback’s mission is to provide high quality fresh dishes at affordable prices. Explore Outback’s new menu with 15

Fernando and his wife, Carmen, have been married for 30 years and have lived in First Colony since 1987. They have three daughters, Michelle, 26; Nicole, 22; and Tiffany, 15. Slight variations of the girls’ names are those of the three private dining rooms at the restaurant that Fernando says are available for private parties and events accommodating sizeable groups of up to 100 individuals.

If you’re looking for a savory Latin menu with what has been described to be had with Old World service, think of Fernando’s, and think of his restaurant journey that brought him to a place he calls home.

meals under $15 including new choices, classic favorites and down under prices starting at $9.95. Our favorites include the Bloomin’ Onion®, Outback Special Sirloin with Grilled Shrimp on the Barbie, Honey Dijon Chicken with Sweet Potato Fries and much more! The local Proprietor is Anthony Antonidis. Open Mon.- Thur. 4-10 pm, Fri. 4-11 pm, Sat. 3-11 pm, Sun 11 am-9:30 pm. Located at 15253 Southwest Freeway, (Off Highway 59 and Williams Trace Exit) in Sugar Land, Texas. 281-980-4329. $ FB Panda Garden Panda Garden Restaurant, the three times winner for Best Oriental Restaurant in Fort Bend County, located at 3563 Highway 6 in Kroger Center, provides a warm, casual environment to best service all diners. The goal of our restaurant is to offer 100% satisfactory to the customers with variety selection of popular Hunan Cuisine. “We offer fresh, made from scratch meals that is unforgettably delicious!” Manager Kenny adds. The restaurant offers accommodations for small group meetings and wonderful party tray for catering to the near by businesses and schools. Panda Garden is open 7 days a week on Mon. – Sat.: 11a.m. – 10 p.m. and Sun. 11a.m. – 9:30p.m.

Delivery is available everyday with a min. of $15.00 purchase.

A lunch special is offered daily as well as the full regular menu offerings. 3563 Hwy 6 @ Williams Trace, 281-265-0303. $ • WB Pappa La Rosa Flying Pizza and Restaurant Pappa La Rosa Flying Pizza and Restaurant is a warm and inviting family owned and operated restaurant where pizza, pasta and subs are available on the menu, with daily specials.

Catering, a private party room and birthday packages are also continued on page 64 December 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

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continued on page 64

available. Dine in or take out. Open for lunch and dinner Tuesday – Sunday. • 16227 Lexington Boulevard, Sugar Land • Call 281-313-3500. $ • WB Post Oak Grill Restaurant & Bar The Rios Family invites you to come and experience the same quality, ambiance and service that you have at the original Post Oak Gill. Join us for a wonderful culinary adventure featuring fine center-cut steaks, chops, fresh seafood, soups, sandwiches, salads, and outstanding wine selection. Open lunch & dinner - MondayThursday 11:00-9:00pm, Friday & Saturday 11:00-10:00pm.

Happy Hour 3:00-6:00pm. 4524 Highway 6, Sugar Land • Call 281-491-2901. www.postoakgrillsugarland.com $$ • FB Sandy McGee’s Restaurant & Catering The “BEST” soups, gourmet sandwiches and salads in TEXAS. Casual Dining in Historic Downtown Richmond. Sandy McGee’s has a sterling reputation for “FRESH”. Mon.Fri. 10am-9pm and Sat.-Sun. 10am-3pm. 314 Morton St., Richmond. 281-344-9393. $

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Tacone Flavor Grill Fresh. Fun. Handmade. Unique Environment. Tacone is a Casual Quick Serve Restaurant with gourmet flavor at not so gourmet prices. Rated Best Gourmet Wrap Restaurant by Restaurant and Resorts. This franchise based company from Los Angeles, CA has unique gourmet wraps, hot pannini sandwiches, salads, and smoothies. There is a BBQ Chicken Quesadillas waiting for you at Tacone. Make your other senses jealous! Sugar Land Town Square, 2228 Texas Drive, Sugar Land, 77479; 281-313-2300, fax: 281-313-2305. www.tacone.com. $ Tornado Burger Home of the famous Spicy Burger. Find out why Houston’s largest newspaper raves about their burgers! Read the review by the Houston Chronicle at: http://blogs.chron.com/cookstour/ archives/2007/09/burgerology.html. They make their burgers with fresh-ground chuck, and even their buns are handmade!

The French fries are fresh Idaho potatoes cut right in front of you and fried to order! They compete with the multinationals with fresh food at low prices and very fast service. Their Philly Cheesesteaks are as good as Pat’s if not better! Open Mon. - Sat. 11am-10pm, Sun. 11am-9pm. Dine-In or Drive-Thru. 505 Murphy Rd (FM 1092) just south of Hwy 90 in Stafford, 281403-FAST (3278). $

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