January 2014 - The Business Lifestyle Magazine Digital Edition

Volume 32 • No. 1

THE BUSINESS LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2014

What Makes a Family?

Family to Family Adoptions has options see page 24

INSIDE STORIES

Contribute now to your tax-deferred savings account City of Richmond restructures to prepare for ‘smart growth’ Fort Bend Newsworthy & Names in the News Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter Data Beat Information 4.95

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At St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital, the specialized cardiology team can help in the diagnosis and treatment of heart-related conditions. The team, led by board-certified cardiologists, is dedicated to excellence in cardiovascular care, including diagnostic and interventional heart and peripheral procedures, all while utilizing the latest medical technology. Plus, we’re conveniently located right here in the heart of your community.

Cardiac Services: - Diagnostic Testing - Heart and Peripheral Procedures - Electrophysiological Procedures

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For more information about the available Cardiology services, call 281-637-7000.

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

Texas Direct Auto Proudly Supports Women In Need

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n their ongoing commitment to community support, Texas Direct Auto is a proud sponsor of the 9th annual Girlfriends Giggle, benefitting the Fort Bend County Women’s Center. This year’s event, described by past party-goers as the ultimate “Girl’s Night Out,” will be held on Thursday, February 6th from 6:30 to 11:00 p.m. in the Diva Den at Fluor Corporation in Sugar Land, Texas.

Girlfriends Giggle is a celebration of female friendship in support of local women in need. Billed as a “grownup girl pajama party,” attendees can enjoy top local restaurant fare and a martini bar, participate in live and silent auctions, boutique shopping and dance lessons, compete in a pajama contest and indulge in spa luxuries like manicures, massages and hair styling – all in the name of helping survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault achieve safety and self-sufficiency.

On Texas Direct Auto’s decision to sponsor the event for a second consecutive year, Jessica DeMarr, Director of Business Development, says, “The Fort Bend County Women’s Center provides such a vital and important service to our community. Assisting survivors of domestic violence and providing them with the resources to start a new life is a mission we are proud to support.”

Tickets for Girlfriends Giggle are only $67 – the same amount it costs to shelter a survivor of domestic violence or sexual assault for a day at the Fort Bend County Women’s Center’s 65bed emergency center. Over the past 30 years, the non-profit agency has helped more than 35,000 local women and children achieve violencefree lifestyles, but they could never have done it without the generous contributions and support from the local Fort Bend community – caring people just like you!

Last year’s event sold out with 1,000 “gigglers” in attendance and raised a record-breaking $127,650 for the Fort Bend County Women’s Center. This year the goals are even higher, so Texas Direct Auto urges all the lovely ladies of Fort Bend to grab your girlfriends and head out to One Fluor Daniel Drive on February 6th for a fabulous evening of female fun in support of a very worthy cause.

Tickets to Girlfriends Giggle can be purchased online at fortbendwomenscenter.org or in person at Texas American Title, The Design Source or J. Loggins Jewelers. For information on becoming a sponsor at the event, contact Leah Crawford at (281) 935-8072 or Melissa Evans at (281) 221-3117.

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Preview

by Sharon Wallingford

Hold on to your seats, a new year is on the way Sharon Wallingford

scan with you smart phone to launch website

L

et’s welcome the 14th year of the third millennium, the 14th year of the 21st century, and the 5th year of the 2010s decade: 2014.

While the United Nations has designated 2014 as the International Year of Family, Farming and Crystallography, you may be asking what is Crystallography? It is the science that examines the arrangement of atoms in solids. A more comprehensive definition is: “Crystallography is the science of condensed matter with emphasis on the atomic or molecular structure and its relation to physical and chemical properties.

So hold on to your seats, Fort Bend County is always involved in the action. Some how, some way, some process.

Our January issue begins with Family to Family Adoptions: Making a difference in service to the community, the children, and families. This century the 501(c)3 has placed 350 children into adoptive homes.

Beginning on page two, we’ll tell you what they can do and how they have completed lasting relationships.

Stafford Dialysis Renal also configures family while performing high quality patient care. Using state of the art technology and employing certified professionals, they prioritize the care they provide with high ethical standards and education.

This year as even more healthcare changes occur and the field becomes more patient focused, we are likely to learn about multiple performance recognitions

and hospitals and physicians leading in their fields by announcing their innovative, preventive procedures that lead clients to wellness.

Both Houston Methodist Sugar Land and Memorial Hermann Sugar Land have announced expansions to be completed this year. Kelsey-Seybold has announced its Accountable Care Organization. It’s predicted families and individual consumers will gain higher satisfaction, lower total cost of care while being guided to more preventive outcomes.

Farming - your backyard neighbor - is facing changes and challenges. Water will play a huge factor.

The farming and ranching industries are facing FDA changes over the coming three years which should result in improvements for generations of consumers to come.

Efforts to solve growing hunger are being studied locally and globally. Congress has yet to sign a farm bill.

We have misinformed critics on both ends of the political and philosophical spectrum who don’t understand the unintended consequences of tampering too much with the bill. It is the formula that has done so much to secure our national food supply. It has also generated more jobs than any other jobs bill ever passed and helps the local economy in dozens of ways. And so we must wait.

So as the world turns, let’s bring cheers to the new year!

Keep the cash register ringing.

Sharon Wallingford

The Editorial Advisory Board

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

Becky Munnell President and CEO Blue Jungle Marketing

Jacqueline Baly President and CEO Baly Projects, LLC

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

Dee Koch Grant Officer The George Foundation

Tim Stubenrouch President First Community Bank

January 2014 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

John Whitmore Whitmore Company

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

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H January 2014

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C

NTENTS Volume 32 • Number 1 • January 2014

COVER STORY

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

What Makes a Family?

Family to Family Adoptions has options pg.

PUBLISHER

24

Michael Fredrickson ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Diane Strehl Jessica Kij Jerry Poscovsky ACCOUNTING

Inside Stories

Lisa Long

Contribute now to your tax-deferred savings account.............................. 6 Stafford Dialysis “Quality Care For A Quality Life”.................................... 8 How much do area local governments owe?............................................ 10 Houston Community College bond construction program gains momentum.............................................................................. 14 Richmond, Rosenberg, approved lawsuit against Fort Bend Subsidence District.................................................................... 15 New US Headquarters in Katy supports KOBELCO Construction Machinery............................................................. 16 Performing Arts Center milestone met ....................................................... 18 City of Richmond re-structuring to prepare for ‘smart growth’........... 20 Abraham and Salas appointed by governor.............................................. 21 Perry appoints leaders to Texas State Technical Board of Regents....... 28 Memorial Hermann tabs January 26 for USA FIT Marathon................ 30

EDITOR Jean Sandlin CONTRIBUTORS Karen Daniels Betsy Dolan Sharon Wallingford ART DIRECTOR Joey Belleza GRAPHIC DESIGNER / WEB Jan Carlo Arcillas

Departments Names in the News........................................................ 21-23 Newsworthy................................................................... 28-30 Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter.............. 31-38 Data Beat....................................................................... 40-43 Service Directory.......................................................... 44-46 Meet & Eat - Food, Drink & Entertainment Guide.................................................... 47-48

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January 2014 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

ON THE COVER Family to Family Adoptions Debbie Seiler, Director of Development & Maxine Seiler, Executive Director

©2014 Fort Bend Business Journal Magazine No material from this publication be copied or in any way reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

FIND YOUR NEXT CAR Search new and used car inventories online - easy, simple, fast

Scan with your smart phone to launch website

LIST YOUR CAR FOR SALE ONLINE FREE www.UsedCarLover.com

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H January 2014

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Contribute now to your tax-deferred savings account

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t’s a new year and another opportunity to contribute to your tax-deferred savings accounts. When you contribute to your 401(k), IRA or other tax-deferred savings account, the government is essentially matching your contribution at your marginal tax rate, and your contribution grows tax-free until it is distributed.

Whether you qualify to make a taxdeferred contribution in 2014 is dependent on many factors. Consulting an experienced and qualified financial advisor can help you determine your eligibility and maximum contribution amounts.

The IRS updates contribution limits every year. For 2014, limits remain the same as those in 2013. Below are the contribution limits for 2014: Changes to the tax code for 2014 are minimal when compared to previous few years. The much discussed individual

mandate from the Affordable Care Act comes into effect, with a penalty of $95 per uninsured person or 1 percent of household income, whichever is larger. These penalties increase in 2015 and 2016, so be sure to confirm that your insurance qualifies as

Account Type

All Defined Contribution Plans (401k, 403b, etc.)

SIMPLE IRA

Traditional And Roth IRA

Max Salary Deferral

$17,500

$12,000

$5,500

Additional Deferral if Over 50

$5,500

$2,500

$1,000

Maximum Total Deferral

$23,000

$14,500

$6,500

ď‚&#x;

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minimum essential coverage under applicable healthcare law.

WJ Interests is a fee-only financial planning and investment management firm in Sugar Land. For more information, please contact us at wj@wjinterests.com or 281-634-9400.

January 2014 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

Join us in honoring our members and stakeholder cities for their

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STAFFORD DIALYSIS “Quality Care For A Quality Life”

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he mission of Stafford Dialysis Renal Inc. is to promote delivery of the highest quality care and treatment for patients with chronic renal disease. It is of utmost importance to provide a proper, comfortable and friendly environment for our patients, where patient care is our first priority.

Stafford Dialysis Renal Inc. has committed itself to creating renal care service with the most innovative State of the Art technology and certified

professionals. Stafford Dialysis Renal Inc. prioritizes providing for our patients with the highest of ethical standards and education related to kidney failure.

Stafford Dialysis Renal Inc. is a brand new, twenty (16) chair station for Hemodialysis equipped with flat screen TV, and WI-FI internet service. Our clinic is open Monday, through Friday from 6:00AM –8:00PM. We have a nurse available to answer questions and assess the needs of our patients with excellence twenty-four hours a day.

Stafford Dialysis Renal Inc. is certified through Private Insurance, Medicare, and

The friendly staff of Stafford Dialysis

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January 2014 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

the Texas Department of Health. Our team includes a dedicated staff of Board Certified Nephrologists, Nurses, Bio-Med Technicians, Social Workers, Dieticians, Nurses and Patient Care Technicians who are experienced and well trained in meeting the special needs of our renal patients.

Beginning dialysis in the center involves being among a clinical team that monitors care to make sure treatment progresses smoothly. It takes 3-4 hours to undergo dialysis and this is done three times a week. Stafford Dialysis exceeding industry standards. For every

The friendly staff of Stafford Dialysis

four patients, we have one patient care technician, and for every eight patients one Registered Nurse. Stafford Dialysis has one of the highest rates of succefully transplanted patient.

What’s key and illuminating at Stafford Dialysis is a deep and compassionate perspective to treating its patients. This inspiration come from the primary founder, a former renal dialysis patient and kidney transplant success story. She makes it a point to visit, encourage and talk to each patient from the heart, as she has truly “been there.�

Referrals to Stafford Dialysis come from numerous nephrologists, other physicians, hospitals case workers and word of mouth support for the services at a facility, which is central to the area.

Stafford dialysis is located on Murphy Road right off Beltway 8 and US. 59.

Since the nature of the dialysis services require essential care and treatment to avoid death or disability, for emergency operations the Stafford Dialysis Center is set up to operate for months with a backup generator. It also has a backup water

supply system with a top priority status for water furnished by the Fort Bend County Water Control and Improvement District # 2.

Stafford Dialysis continuously strive to deliver care to each patient that is patient/family centered, individualized, and consistent with current professional knowledge; that achieves desired outcomes, which includes less than 10% of patients with a catheter > 90 days and at least 90% of patients with an AVF for vascular access; and that achieves CMS thresholds.

Stafford Dialysis establish and maintain a dynamic quality assessment and performance improvement program that evaluates the care provided and identifies opportunities for and continuously works to improve care delivered.

Stafford Dialysis clearly delineate and respect the rights and responsibilities of both the patient, family, significant others, and the facility while promoting patient/family-centered care and engagement.

Stafford Dialysis assess and refer, in

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H January 2014

a timely manner, medically suitable patients to treatment modalities that increase habilitation and independence, including in-center self-care, home selfcare, and transplantation.

Stafford Dialysis is recognize by the Network 14 as a FIVE-DIAMOND for Patient Safety Program.

For more information on STAFFORD DIALYSIS visit www.stafforddialysis.com or call 281-568-9911

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Your other debt

How much do area local governments owe?

By Elsa Maxey

I

n an effort to make it simpler in Texas to look at the finances of local governments, the State comptroller’s office has web pages intended to inform citizens of the outstanding debts.

“The Internet is the new town square, and we want to give busy Texans easy and quick access to information to help them get involved in government,” said State Comptroller Susan Combs when the website was released. The Debt at a Glance website with a header aptly named -Tell the Truth Texas, also has cities in Fort Bend and the county among the state’s 20 most populous with Sugar Land and Missouri City making it into the listing. So, what are we looking at locally relating to government finances?

To start off, the general sentiment in Fort Bend County is that the economy in this area is doing well against what many call the dysfunction of the federal government.

After all, in October at the national level there was a 16-day shutdown due to the nation’s elected officials’ inability to come to an agreement on passing a federal budget for its fiscal federal year, Oct 1 - Sept 30.

Regular operations, including automatic pay back for all federal employees, resumed mid-month in October under what is called a Continuing Resolution, but it will last until January 15th. Some have said, “this is not our issue,” but it is because the federal budget is tied to a taxpayer debt as are the local government budgets in Fort Bend County, when elected officials authorize the issuance of debt for projects intended to be paid with future funds.

Let’s take a look at the City of Sugar Land With an estimated population of 84,618 in the 32.73 square miles of the

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city limits, Sugar Land’s current fiscal year’s budget in effect between October 1, 2013 – September 30, 2014 amounts to $207,565,577 and the city’s tax rate is $0.30895 per $100 valuation, one of the lowest rates in the state. It has a sales tax rate of $0.020000.

The annual budget shows that more revenue will come from property taxes than last year in an amount of $1,090,741, a 3.59 percent increase. Commercial values are reported to have increased by 7.2 percent based on the 2013 certified tax rolls and residential valuation increased by 3.9 percent since the average home value went up by 2.4 percent.

Of the total approved budget of $207.57 million, $169.71 million goes for operations, and $37.85

January 2014 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

million is for capital projects.

According to the adopted budget, bond proceeds account for 15% of total revenues for the City at $30.96 million and the city anticipates $15.10 million in new debt during this operational year for General Capital Improvement Projects and $15.65 million for Utility Capital Improvement Projects.

Debt Service represents 18% of total expenditures at $37.97 million and includes principal and interest payments.

The city’s debt issued directly and debt assumed from MUDs has what it calls 32 current issues including Property Taxbacked, Utility, Airport, Surface Water and Corporation debt. A portion of the tax rate is directed to the Debt Service Fund to meet debt backed by taxes.

UH Sugar Land aligns training and business strategy

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he University of Houston Executive Master’s in Human Resource Development (ExHRD) program and the City of Sugar Land hosted a luncheon to offer an educational opportunity to local business leaders while building awareness of the ExHRD Program at the Sugar Land Campus.

The key note speaker was Dr. Robert O. Brinkerhoff, Ed.D., an author of 16 books on evaluation and training. He discussed the pitfalls of employee training and the ways it can impact a business’s success.

The event at the Sugar Land Marriott Town Square was attended by 17 Sugar Land businesses that included Fluor, Methodist Sugar Land Hospital and Team Industrial Services. Council Member Himesh Gandhi, City Manager Allen Bogard and staff from the Office of Economic Development were also in attendance.

In addition to local business, other notable companies from the Houston region included Center Point, Chevron, Samsung and Weatherford. Approximately 40 companies were represented at the event. The showcase event advanced the program’s efforts to engage the local business community. The Office of Economic Development helped to underwrite the event to encourage workforce training as part of its business retention program. The luncheon was offered at no cost for companies to attend.

Pictured at the event are Brinkerhoff, UH College of Technology Dean William Fitzgibbon, UH Sugar Land Associate Vice Chancellor Dick Phillips, Sugar Land Director of Economic Development Regina Morales, UH ExHRD Program Facilitator Bonnie Rogers, UH ExHRD Program Coordinator Consuelo Waight, UH Human Resource Development Associate Professor Holly Hutchins and UH College of Technology Human Resource Development Advisor Torrence Sparkman.

Sugar Land’s economic development retention program is dedicated to connecting businesses with the degree programs offered at UH Sugar Land and has previously collaborated with the ExHRD program by assisting in its ongoing Brown Bag Series. The series offers an opportunity for local business leaders to engage with fellow business and academic professionals in discussions regarding organizational leadership, change and training.

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H January 2014

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Law firm merger creates Texas legal powerhouse Union joins two veteran law firms, giving rise to premier Texas law practice

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anuary 2014 began with Roberts Markel Weinberg P.C. and Butler | Hailey merging to establish a new law firm, bringing together two well established Texas practices, both rated by Martindale-Hubbell as preeminent law firms.

The combined entity, which will operate as Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey PC (RMWBH), will have offices in Houston, Sugar Land, Austin, San Antonio and Dallas. The five principals, Jeffrey Roberts, Marc Markel, Gregg Weinberg, Rick Butler and Roy Hailey, are each board certified in their respective practice areas by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

The new law firm will offer experience in many areas of civil law with a continued emphasis on labor and employment, professional liability, directors and officers litigation, fiduciary litigation, commercial litigation, energy arbitration, real estate and corporate transactions. Community association law will be a particular focus as the new firm will have more attorneys dedicated to this field than any other practice in Texas. Butler, Markel and Hailey are among the most experienced practitioners in this practice area and together bring more than 100 years of combined experience.

“We are very proud to combine the resources of two of the leading firms in the industry,” Markel said. “Our two practices have long had an enduring respect for each other, and we are excited to join forces to be able to offer clients so many choices regarding their legal needs and to further our goal of expanding this area of practice throughout Texas. Together, our combined practices will offer an expanded breadth of knowledge and the benefit of our

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cumulative experience while still providing personalized service to each of our clients.”

In addition to the broad depth of experience and the robust menu of capabilities to come from the merger, RMWBH will bring another notable distinction to its clients. The firm will offer a specialized, Web-based portal to provide community association clients with realtime status reports and 24/7 access to their information. The program incorporates stateof-the-art computerized collection systems, providing associations with maximum efficiency, accessibility and accountability.

“This union brings together the best elements of two highly regarded, successful firms for the benefit of all our existing and prospective clients,” Butler said. “When we are combined, it will be a great challenge to find another law firm that has done as much, taught as much, or prepared as much in the arena of community association law.

What’s more, the talent that this firm will have in other areas of civil law means that the service levels accessible to our clients will be among the best available.” Hailey added,“Simply stated, good just got better.”

As a merged firm, RMWBH will represent more than 1,000 community associations, homeowners associations, property owners associations and condominium associations, including some of the largest master planned communities in the state. The firm’s representation of these associations will center around assisting them with their day-to-day needs including collection of assessments, opinion letters, modification and enforcement of governing documents, and litigation involving the association and its volunteers.

“I have known Rick, Marc, and Roy

January 2014 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

for over 20 years and I’m excited that they have combined forces,” said Sandy Denton, General Manager of Sienna Plantation Residential Association. “I cannot imagine a problem that faces our industry that they have not addressed and mastered.”

The firm will also continue to represent some of the largest real estate developers across the state of Texas.

“For years we have relied on Roberts Markel Weinberg P.C. to provide us legal guidance on many of the unique and challenging issues facing master planned communities in Texas,” said Doug Goff, COO of Johnson Development Corp.

Roberts Markel Weinberg P.C. was founded in 1981 and has grown to comprise five offices throughout Texas, focused on numerous areas of civil litigation and transactional law. Butler | Hailey was founded in 1980, and developed a practice heavily emphasizing community association law and real estate development. The principals at both firms are all rated AV Preeminent® by Martindale-Hubbell peer review ratings. The AV Preeminent® rating reflects a lawyer’s ranking by his or her peers at the highest level of professional excellence.

New Hampton Inn & Suites Hotel opens in Missouri City for business

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ampton Hotels, Hilton Worldwide’s global brand of more than 1,900 mid-priced Hampton Inn, Hampton Inn & Suites, and Hampton by Hilton hotels, has announced the official opening of its newest property, the 64room Hampton Inn & Suites Missouri City, located at 4909 Highway 6.

“Hampton combines quality, innovation, comfort and plenty of valueadded extras, making it the brand of choice in the marketplace today,” said Mercedes Borobia, general manager, Hampton Inn & Suites Missouri City. “Quality accommodations and amenities combined with proactive, friendly service from our team members - all backed by the 100% Hampton® Guarantee - make us highly

competitive in the Missouri City area.”

The hotel is owned and operated by JSN Hospitality Group, Inc. It is the fourth Hampton property in the Missouri City area and the 163rd in the state.

Hampton Inn & Suites Missouri City provides easy access to US-59 and a variety of shopping malls, restaurants and entertainment options. Local attractions include the Sugar Land Town Square, Sugar Land Ice Rink

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H January 2014

and the Houston Museum District and Reliant Stadium - home of the National Football League’s Houston Texans.

Guest rooms are equipped with modern amenities. Hampton fosters a unique culture of hospitality - called “Hamptonality.”

This term describes each hotel’s approach to friendly customer service, anticipating guests’ needs and providing travelers with helpful suggestions about area attractions, historical facts and fun things do around town.

Additionally, hotels are infused with local photography and art work, highlighting each property’s connection and support to its own community.

For more information or to make reservations for the Hampton Inn & Suites Missouri City, please visit www. hampton.com or call 1-281-2087901.

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Houston Community College bond construction program gains momentum

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ouston Community College continues to make progress in its $425 bond program – a capital improvement program that involves 14 construction projects at all six HCC colleges.

One of the nation’s largest community colleges, HCC announces an aggressive Small Business Enterprise (SBE) goal of 35 percent for the Bond Program. The college will host an SBE education and meet and greet kick-off event mid-January 2014.

Most recently, HCC issued its

Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Bond Construction Managers-atRisk project. This follows decisions on construction project managers and architectural/engineering firms – see complete list below. HCC will announce the recommendation to award decision regarding its choice for Construction Managers-at-Risk firms in February 2014.

HCC is using the Construction Manager-at-Risk project delivery method for the Bond program, allowing HCC to select, at the early stages of the design process, the firms that will act as the general contractor for the projects. The

Monthly sales tax revenue of $580 million distributed to local governments

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exas Comptroller Susan Combs announced that state sales tax revenue in November was $2.41 billion, up 2.8 percent compared to November 2012.

“State sales tax revenue continues to grow at a moderate pace as expected,” Combs said.

“Sales tax collections have increased for 44 consecutive months.

Revenue from sectors such as wholesale trade, services industries and restaurants contributed to the most recent increase.”

Combs will send cities, counties, transit

systems and special purpose taxing districts their December local sales tax allocations totaling $579.6 million, up 5 percent compared to December 2012.

The sales tax figures represent October sales reported by monthly tax filers.

For details of December sales tax allocations to individual cities, counties, transit systems and special purpose districts, locate the Monthly Sales Tax Allocation Comparison Summary Reports on the Comptroller’s Web site at www. window.state.tx.us/taxinfo/allocsum/ compsum.html.

LOCAL SALES TAX ALLOCATIONS (DECEMBER 2013) Recipient

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Dec. 2013 Allocations

Change from Dec. 2012

Year-to-date Change

Cities

$$377.1m

p4.5%

p6.1%

Counties

$38.2m

p2.6

p5.4%

Transit Systems

$131.3m

p4.8%

Special Purpose Taxing Districts

$33.0m

p13.8

p12.1%

Total

$579.6m

p5.0%

p6.4%

%

p6.4% %

January 2014 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

Construction Managers-at-Risk will work alongside the Program Manager, Project Managers and the project Architects/ Engineers, ensuring team collaboration during the development of project drawings and specifications.

Texas law requires that Construction Managers-at-Risk select their subcontractors using a publicly advertised competitive procurement process at the end of the design phase. The subcontractor procurement process ensures that projects are constructed by the trade contractors who offer the “best value” to the project, taking into account both quality and price.

The following core team is working with HCC staff to ensure the best value approach applies to all projects in the Bond Program: • Program Manager • Jacobs Program Management Co. • Bond Program Legal Consultation • Rogers, Morris & Grover, L.L.P. HCC Southwest College Team • Project Manager: Jones Lang LaSalle • Project Architect: Kirksey Architecture • Future Construction/Next Steps As the design phase is completed for each project, the Construction Managersat-Risk will begin the subcontractor procurement process. This process is anticipated to begin in the summer of 2014, and will continue through the fall of 2014, as each project’s drawings are finalized.

About the Bond Program HCC’s bond program provides each of HCC’s six colleges with new or renovated facilities and the technology to meet student needs, especially in high-demand areas such as health sciences, as well as science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education. The $425 million bond program was overwhelmingly approved by voters in November 2012, garnering 67% of the vote.

Richmond, Rosenberg, approve lawsuit against Fort Bend Subsidence District

By Betsy Dolan

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n the ongoing battle over how best to meet groundwater reduction rules by 2016, the cities of Richmond and Rosenberg have decided to sue the Fort Bend Subsidence District (FBSD).

At issue is the district’s recently amended regulatory plan which the cities say limits their options to explore alternative water sources and steers them toward building an expensive surface water treatment plant.

“The FBSD Board has previously been made aware that the cities would pursue legal action if the District’s regulatory plan was amended in such a way that would eliminate available options for alternative water sources,” said Rosenberg Mayor Vincent M. Morales, Jr. According to Patrick Lindner, the cities’ legal counsel on the item, the purpose of

the suit is to “protect the rights of the cities and their citizens and water customers.”

The FBSD had no public comment on the proposed lawsuit.

All large water users in Texas must convert 30% of groundwater usage to an alternate source by 2016, and 60% to an alternate source by 2025.

Richmond and Rosenberg want to hire Houston-based Electro Purification LLC to drill 10 commercial wells in Austin and Waller counties.

But area ranchers, farmers and the city of Simonton are concerned that removing large quantities of water--20 million gallons a day-- will increase the threat of subsidence, or land sinking, which can lead to flooding. There are also concerns about a diminished and lower quality water supply.

In addition, the Fort Bend Subsidence District, which oversees compliance with the state mandate, is encouraging the use

of surface water. The FBSD amended their 2003 Groundwater Reduction Plan in August by changing their own definition of an “alternative water source”.

“Groundwater withdrawn from any county outside the district does not qualify as an alternative water supply unless the permittee can demonstrate that the groundwater withdrawals will not cause groundwater level declines,” the amendment stated.

The subsidence district’s board of directors in November denied the two cities’ request for rehearing on amendments it made in August.

“The filing of this lawsuit is emblematic of our dedication to our citizens and our communities’ futures”, said Richmond Mayor Evalyn Moore. “We are committed to securing a water supply that will provide for development and independence well into the future.”

How do you retouch a masterpiece?

Gracefully.

S

ugar Creek Country Club has embarked on a new era with a $2.5 million renovation of its 27-hole golf course and clubhouse. Join now and experience this exciting transformation firsthand.

www.thesugarcreek.com | 281.494.9131

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H January 2014

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New US Headquarters in Katy supports KOBELCO Construction Machinery USA’s fast paced growth

W

hen KOBELCO Construction Machinery USA relaunched its popular line of crawler excavators as an independent brand earlier this year, the company never imagined how quickly they’d reestablish a footing in North America. The signing of more than 50 dealers in its first six months drove a significant demand for KOBELCO excavators, a demand that KOBELCO worldwide has diligently worked to support throughout 2013, and one that has helped the company regain market share within its first year of independent operation.

“We couldn’t be more pleased with the early results of our brand relaunch” states Pete Morita, President and CEO of KOBELCO Construction Machinery USA. “In just a short time period we’ve hired some of the industry’s most qualified personnel, opened our temporary headquarters and parts warehouse and partnered with our dealers to provide quality, competitively priced products. All of these initiatives are just the beginning of what we have planned for the North American marketplace.”

KOBELCO Construction Machinery’s fast paced growth has resulted in expedited plans to build a permanent US based

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headquarters. The company originally anticipated to build within 5 years, but started making it a priority this summer, scouting and selecting a location before the close of their first business year. In early December, the company will break ground on their new facility in Katy, TX, having signed a 9 year lease agreement with plans to occupy the building by September 2014.

This new, expansive 101,300 square foot facility will not only server as KOBELCO’s North American headquarters, but also as the company’s training center and parts distribution location for all of the United States, Canada and Latin America. The investment being made in this building by KOBELCO signifies the company’s long term commitment to the North American marketplace.

According to Ron Hargrave, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for KOBELCO Construction Machinery USA, “The new facility being built will allow us to continue our rapid growth. We are pleased to once again be offering our products as an independent brand and are working diligently to ensure KOBELCO positions itself to gain continued market share moving forward. We are Driven By Passion to be a market leader of crawler excavators.”

Further supporting the company’s long term commitment to the North American market is its significant investment in ConExpo/ConAgg 2014. A 165’ x 210’ outdoor exhibit in silver lot booth #4408,

January 2014 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

will mark the company’s homecoming to the show as an independent brand after a 10 year hiatus. The exhibit will not only feature KOBELCO’s popular line of crawler excavators, but also a new line of demolition machines. In addition to equipment, the booth has been designed to create a memorable experience for attendees, one the company hopes their dealers, customers and prospective customers will remember for many years to come.

“We’ve been planning our ConExpo exhibit for quite some time,” states Jordan Lumpkins, Marketing Manager for KOBELCO Construction Machinery USA. “Our booth is celebratory in nature.

The show’s audience will allow us to communicate the KOBELCO story to customers, the media and prospective customers from around the world, while offering visitors the ability to kick the tires and get into the operator seats of some of our most popular models.”

KOBELCO Construction Machinery USA is dedicated to producing a full

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H January 2014

range of crawler excavators in the 3,000 lb. to 180,000 lb. classes for the rental, landscape, construction, aggregate, roadbuilding, material handling, site preparation, recycling and ancillary markets, including zero tail swing, standard, long-reach and compact models. KOBELCO is well-known worldwide as excavator perfectionists for its steadfast focus on improving and enhancing its singular line of products.

KOBELCO machines are well-regarded for their advanced technologies, including an innovative noise and dust reduction system, advanced hydraulic circuitry for reduction of pressure loss and superior fuel efficiency.

For more information on KOBELCO Construction Machinery USA or KOBELCO’s 2014 ConExpo exhibit please visit www.KOBELCO-USA.com or www.

KOBELCOunleashed.com.

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Performing Arts Center milestone met

A

Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) agreement that includes pre-construction services in the amount of $98,500 with Linbeck Group, LLC has been approved for Sugar Land’s new performing arts center.

The approximate 6,500-seat venue will be located on a portion of 38.5 acres of city-own property in the Telfair commercial district, southeast of U.S. Highway 59 and University Boulevard.

Utilizing a CMAR process will enable Sugar Land, the design team and the construction manager to work together to ensure design decisions can be efficiently implemented into the construction project within an established budget and project timeline.

The CMAR team will work to ensure Sugar Land’s venue incorporates industrywide best practices, durable construction, a layout that’s easy to operate and maintain the acoustics and sightlines that accommodate a wide range of performances. The process will result in a guaranteed maximum price for construction.

Preconstruction services include scheduling, cost estimating, value engineering, general coordination, budget and cost consultation and construction planning.

The selection of Linbeck was the result of a process that began in August with a formal request for qualifications. A short list of five firms was identified, and Linbeck was selected after a comprehensive evaluation and interview process.

In the past six years, Linbeck has completed more than $3 billion in construction projects utilizing the CMAR process. A few recent projects include: • Verizon Theater in Grand Prairie; • Tobin Center for Performing Arts in San Antonio;

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• Bill and Margo Winspear Opera House in Dallas; and • Nancy Lee and Perry R. Bass Performance Hall in Fort Worth.

The economic development strategy for Sugar Land’s performing arts center was structured to establish Sugar Land as a destination location for culture and entertainment as well as creating an amenity that is commercially self-sustainable.

Construction is expected to begin late next summer and take about 24 months.

Development near the venue will include a public plaza surrounded by commercial, office and entertainment projects.

A 2008 Market Analysis and Feasibility Study and an updated 2012 study performed

by CSL International identified that the Houston market did not have a 6,500-seat live entertainment venue and concluded that market demand would support the first financially feasible and commercially January 2014 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

sustainable venue of its size in the region.

The studies also supported that the performing arts venue in Sugar Land will promote capital investment, create new jobs, enhance educational opportunities and create unique destination activities attracting local and regional visitors.

Based on voters’ approval of the financing tools in 2008 and the City’s goal to create a financially feasible, operationally self-sustaining venue, the estimated $83.6 million performing arts center will be funded through a unique package of special funding sources.

The City’s partner, ACE, will make a $10-million equity contribution to the project. A portion of sales tax revenues that may only be used for economic development purposes and a portion of hotel occupancy tax funds that are restricted to tourism initiatives will be dedicated to the project.

Rent revenues generated by the facility will also fund the Performing Arts Center.

No general fund tax dollars will be spent on the project that is expected to create an iconic venue for the region.

A development agreement was approved on July 23 with ACE SL, LLC (ACE), whose parent company is ACE Theatrical Group, for the design, development and construction of a future Performing Arts Center.

TWC sets employer tax rates for 2014

T

he Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) announced in December the average Unemployment Insurance (UI) tax rate for all employers will be 1.66 percent for Calendar Year (CY) 2014, down from 1.82 percent in CY 2013.

The average tax rate for experience-rated employers is 1.54 percent for CY 2014, and is down from 1.71 percent in CY 2013. The standard minimum UI tax rate paid by Texas employers in CY 2014 will be 0.51 percent, which is down from 0.54 percent in CY 2013.

These employer-paid UI taxes replenish the Texas Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund, which provides temporary income for Texas workers who lose their jobs through no fault of their own. Lower employer UI tax rates reflect the continued economic expansion in Texas.

The minimum tax rate is paid by 262,808 employers, which represents 64.7 percent of

experience-rated employers. An experience rating is determined by the amount of an employer’s taxable wages and the amount of UI benefits that have been paid to former employees and charged to the employer’s account for the last three years. An employer paying the standard minimum tax will pay $45.90 per employee in CY 2014 compared with $48.60 per employee in CY 2013. The maximum UI tax rate, paid by 5.4 percent of Texas employers, will be 7.41 percent.

In setting tax rates for CY 2014, TWC sought to minimize the effects of any increases and exercise the authority given to it by state law to hold the tax rates to the lowest and most predictable rates possible.

TWC is dedicated to finding ways to lower the financial impact of UI taxes on Texas employers. TWC and its 28 local workforce boards also are committed to helping UI claimants return to work as soon as possible.

The components of the CY 2014 tax rate are as follows:

• The general tax rate is based on claims against an employer’s account.

If TWC has paid benefits to former employees who were laid off or separated through no fault of their own in the past three years, then those employers will pay a general tax.

• The replenishment tax rate is charged to all experience-rated employers to cover unemployment claims not charged to a specific employer. This tax tends to rise following economic slowdowns when claims increase and businesses close.

• The employment training assessment is charged to all employers who are eligible for a computed tax rate to finance the Skills Development Fund.

The employment training assessment calculation is a separate line item on the Employer’s Quarterly Tax Report.

• The obligation assessment tax rate is collected to repay bond obligations. This tax is experience-rated and based on an employer’s 2013 tax rate.

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City of Richmond restructures to prepare for ‘smart growth’

By Betsy Dolan

R

ichmond’s early days were a virtual “who’s who” in Texas history: Stephen F. Austin’s Old Three Hundred, Deaf Smith, Mirabeau B. Lamar, Jane Long and the George family were all influential in shaping Richmond’s beginnings.

But now the city of nearly 12,000 is looking at a new chapter in its history and a chance to redefine who they are and where they are headed.

With land still available on both sides of the Southwest Freeway near FM 762, the ongoing residential growth along 359 and the untapped potential of development along U.S. 90A, Richmond finds itself in a very promising position.

“We’re at a moment of great importance”, said Gary Gillen, one of three elected city commissioners. “The potential for growth can overwhelm us or we can prepare for it.”

Richmond voters approved a change to the city’s charter from general law to home rule earlier this year and ok’d a planning and zoning board which will be appointed by May. The changes mean Richmond can now use its city charter to govern its own affairs rather than rely on state statues.

In addition, citizens can push for change through the petition process and the city now has increased annexation powers.

“The greatest opportunities for growth are in our extraterritorial jurisdiction which covers roughly 42 square miles,” said Evalyn Moore, Richmond’s mayor.

“We want to annex those areas that have the greatest potential for business expansion.

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Mayor Evalyn Moore stands in front of Richmond’s City Hall. Richmond is in the process of restructuring its city government to capitalize on growth and economic development opportunities.

But, Moore warns, it needs to be strategic and selective.

Richmond has hired a firm to help them draft a new Comprehensive Master Plan that will influence the city’s growth, development, infrastructure, housing and economic development for the next 20 years.

“If we do things right now, we can bring in sales tax dollars, increase services and reduce our property tax rate,” said Gillen. Richmond’s property tax rate is currently $.78, among the highest in Fort Bend County.

Already change is happening in

January 2014 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

Richmond. Apartments are going up on land the City owns near the Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital along the Southwest Freeway.

Commercial development will be built in that location in the next year or two.

And Richmond is in the process of hiring an Economic Development Director to handle what everyone knows is coming.

“We want new jobs, new residents and to improve our economy”, Moore said.

“Our greatest challenge will be managing the growth while maintaining Richmond’s unique character because our citizens want us to remain as such.”

IN NAMESTHE NEWS

GOT NEWS? Send your press release to editor@fortbendbusinessjournal.com

Perry joins Katy Area EDC & GEICO officials to announce the opening of claims office in Katy

G

overnor Rick Perry joined GEICO Chairman Tony Nicely and Lance LaCour, President and CEO of the Katy Area Economic development Council, have announced the opening of a GEICO claims office in Katy.

The office is located at 21420 Merchants Way in Katy. GEICO expects the office to employ 400 associates by 2015 and up to 1,000 associates within the next three years. The company will fill positions for entry-level claims representatives, degreed candidates for liability claims representatives and college graduates for GEICO’s fast-track management development program with a

Lance LaCour, president and CEO of the Katy Area Economic Development Council joined Tony Nicely, chairman and CEO, the Honorable Rick Perry, Governor of Texas, the GEICO Gecko and Tara Carthew, general manager.

Photo courtesy of GEICO

focus on claims operations.

“Whenever we hear about a major employer expanding or relocating to Texas, it affirms what we’ve been telling people all these years,” Gov. Perry said. “When you create a place that rewards innovation and hard work, and frees people to do their best in

Abraham and Salas appointed by governor Texas Gov. Rick Perry has appointed five members to the One-Call Board. The board has authority over “Call Before You Dig” systems that notify underground facility operators of excavation plans so pipelines and utility lines can be marked to prevent accidents. Among the five are Thomas Abraham and Cynthia Salas, both of Sugar Land.

Thomas Abraham is president and CEO of Transtar A/C Supply Inc. He is former Sugar Land mayor pro-tem and a past member of the Sugar Land City Council.

He is a member of the Exchange Club of Sugar Land, Texas Municipal League, Rotary Club of Sugar Land, Fort Bend Independent School District Education Foundation and KVVV Channel 15 Houston Media Outreach and Awareness. He is also a past board member of the Fort Bend Boys Choir of Texas. Abraham received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Tampa and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Delhi in India. He is appointed for a term to expire Aug. 31, 2016.

Cynthia Salas is director of land and field services for CenterPoint Energy. She is vice president of the Geographic and Land Information Society and a member of the American Gas Association Working Groups, Houston-Galveston Area Council Geographic Data Committee, Houston Community College Advisory Board, Southeast Texas Damage Prevention Council, Common Ground Alliance, Chartwell Outage Communications Committee, Chartwell Utility Advisory Committee, Edison Electric Institute Pole Attachment Group, Telvent Executive Advisory Board, American Congress on Surveying and Mapping, and American Business Women’s Association. She is also past president of the Geospatial Information and Technology Association, a past member of the National Geospatial Advisory Committee, and a former officer of the Esri Electric and Gas User Group. Salas received a bachelor’s degree from LeTourneau University. She is appointed for a term to expire Aug. 31, 2016.

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H January 2014

pursuit of their dreams, good things happen.

Like many cutting-edge companies, GEICO knows that Texas is a great destination for innovative companies looking to excel,” Gov. Perry concluded.

“We are energized by GEICO’s decision to establish its Houston Claims Center and 1,000 new jobs in Katy, Texas,” said Lance LaCour, president and CEO of the Katy Area Economic Development Council (EDC). “Katy Area EDC’s targeted focus on recruiting quality companies, such as GEICO, will produce a strong economic impact to the Katy area. When fully staffed, GEICO will be one of the top 20 employers in the Katy area, which includes a part of the Energy Corridor. Katy’s dynamic and energetic talent pool, great business climate and available spec buildings were surely key ingredients for GEICO’s decision,” LaCour added. “We know the greater Houston area has built a thriving economy because of the outstanding professionals who make it their home,” said GEICO Chairman Tony Nicely.

“We hope to offer them the kind of career opportunities that will appeal to them as we continue to attract more and more customers and grow our business.”

GEICO’s relationship with Texas dates back to its origins, having been founded in Fort Worth by Leo and Lillian Goodwin in 1936 to provide auto insurance for federal employees and members of the military.

GEICO has maintained a regional office in Dallas since 1986 and has more than 2,200 associates supporting the regional operation.

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IN NAMES THE NEWS

GOT NEWS? Send your press release to sharon@fortbendbusinessjournal.com

Hope for Three receives grant from Ecolab Foundation Hope for Three Development Director Angie Wierzbicki and Board Chairman Patrick LaRue accept a $5,000 grant from Nell Ciancarelli (far right) of Nalco Champion, an Ecolab Company. This award was the first time Ecolab Foundation provided grants to non-profits in the Fort Bend area. Its grant program was established to support 501c3 non-profit organizations in communities where Ecolab employees live and work, such as Fort Bend County.

Ciancarelli said, “Nalco Champion is thrilled to be involved in the Ecolab Foundation’s grant process and we are happy to be able

to give back to the Fort Bend County community where we work, play and live.”

Hope for Three is a Fort Bend nonprofit and autism advocacy group providing resources and financial assistance to families with children on the autism spectrum. The grant award will be used to partially fund a Family Assistance Coordinator position to enhance delivery of programs and services.

To volunteer, donate or learn more on how Hope for Three provides help, while also creating awareness and acceptance in the community, call 800-317-0787 or visit www. hopeforthree.org.

TxDot Executive Director Phil Wilson departs for Lower Colorado River Authority position “Phil has directed a number of significant changes and improvements in operations at TxDOT during his two years as executive director,” said Texas Transportation Commission Chairman Ted Houghton. “His leadership, strategic skills, business acumen and ability to assemble a talented team helped the agency increase efficiencies while continuing to provide safe modes of transportation for the citizens of

Texas. We are sorry to see him leave, but wish him success in his next challenge.”

Wilson became executive director of TxDOT in October 2011, coming from Luminant, where he served as senior vice president of public affairs and as a corporate officer.

Wilson will assist in the transition of leadership at TxDOT and is expected to start at LCRA Feb. 1, 2014.

James Echols named Vice President of Commercial Real Estate for NewFirst National Bank James Echols (Jimmy) has accepted the position of Vice President of Commercial Real Estate Lending for NewFirst National Bank.

Jimmy comes to NewFirst from Triumph Savings Bank where he served as the EVP of a subsidiary focused on investing in and operating multifamily properties.

Prior to Triumph Jimmy served as a Vice President of Acquisitions for Fowler Property Acquisitions.

Jimmy is a graduate of Texas Christian University with a BBA in Finance and Real Estate and Texas A&M with a Masters

22

of Land Economics and Real Estate. Jimmy will apply his broad experience working with private equity, pension funds, and commercial lending across all real estate classes and James (Jimmy) Echols product types to help lead NewFirst in its goal of further enhancing their commercial real estate loan portfolio.

Jimmy offices in the Sugar Land branch of NewFirst located at 50 Sugar Creek Center Blvd, Suite 100. He can be reached at 832-344-2078 or jechols@newfirst.com.

January 2014 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

Photo by Brenda Perry

Shown l-r are: Angie Wieeeerzbicki, Patrick LaRue, and Nell Ciancarelli.

Texas Department of Transportation names top 40 destinations in Texas Starting with its January issue and continuing with each monthly issue of 2014, the Texas Department of Transportation’s Texas Highways magazine today announced it will reveal the state’s Top 40 destinations as ranked by readers.

Today’s announcement places Lubbock at No. 40 among the state’s top destinations.

Also included are Top 40 destinations Marble Falls (39), Bastrop (38), Caddo Lake State Park (37) and Houston (36). Read more on Texas Highways’ website. The readers’ choice for favorite destination will be revealed in the December 2014 issue.

“Texas Highways magazine has been an icon in the landscape of Texas travel for 40 years and we are pleased to continue that tradition,” said Phil Wilson, TxDOT executive director. “Tourism is an important part of our economy and we are grateful for the many attractions that lend Texas its hospitable charm.”

In 2012, Texas welcomed 220 million domestic travelers and 8.2 million international travelers to destinations across the state. Those visitors spent a total of $65.7 billion, supported 568,000 jobs and generated $4.4 billion in state and local taxes.

IN NAMES THE NEWS

Police Detective Moats of Missouri City named Fraud Fighter of Year Detective Bruce Moats of the Missouri City Police Department has been named the 2013 Greater Houston Fraud Fighter of the Year by the Houston Chapter of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners. Detective Moats, in the process of investigating the identity theft of a Missouri City victim, discovered that a local volunteer on-air radio station personality had, over the course of six plus years, stolen over 400 Houston area personal identities and purchased an estimated several million

UT Health faculty members elected to prestigious scientific association Two professors at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) – Barry Davis, M.D., Ph.D., and Kevin Morano, Ph.D. – have been elected fellows into Barry Davis, M.D., Ph.D. the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), the world’s largest general scientific society and publisher of the journal Science.

Davis, a Sugar Land resident, is recognized for his leadership to advance public health and his contributions to clinical trials especially in high blood pressure and Morano for his investigations into mechanisms underlying Alzheimer’s disease and other conditions.

Davis, a biostatistician, led a landmark study of blood pressure medications, which found that diuretics or water pills matched or outperformed higher priced medications.

More than 42,000 people participated in the study called the Antihypertensive and Lipid-Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack Trial (ALLHAT).

dollars worth of merchandise with the stolen identities.

The fraudster obtained the ID’s from donors to the radio station. Detective Moats laboriously investigated internet IP addresses and merchandise shipping addresses to track down the fraudster. The defendant has been charged with fraudulent use of identification, a first degree felony, and sits in the Harris County Jail, unable to post his $200,000 bail.

Sergeant Russell D’Oench of the Missouri City Police Department stated that

“Detective Moats consistently demonstrates a high level of investigative prowess as the Lead Fraud Investigator for the police department. It is no surprise to me that he was able to crack a case that had eluded other investigators.” The Houston Chapter of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners issues the Greater Houston Fraud Fighter of the Year award annually to the investigator, public or private, whose investigation exemplifies determination, perseverance and commitment in the fight against fraud.

Brian Ellis joins NewFirst National Bank as Vice President of Commercial Lending Brian Ellis has joined NewFirst National Bank as Vice President - Commercial Lending. Brian has 8 years of local banking experience and offices in the Rosenberg location of NewFirst.

He will focus on commercial operating credits as well as owner occupied and investment real estate loans.

He graduated from Sam Houston State

University with his BBA in Banking and Finance.

He is a 2010 graduate of Leadership Fort Bend and is active in the Fort Bend Chamber Young Brian Ellis Professionals Division.

Brian can be reached at 832-344-2035 or bellis@newfirst.com.

WCJC recognizes Legislative Recognition Group

Wharton County Junior College recently held a Legislative Reception at its Richmond Campus.

WCJC President Betty McCrohan recognized legislative officials for their continued support of community colleges. Pictured, left to right, are Texas State Representatives Phil Stephenson, Rick Miller, Ron Reynolds, John Zerwas, M.D., WCJC President Betty McCrohan, and Congressman Pete OIson.

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H January 2014

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What Makes a Family?

Family to Family

From left to right: Heather Burrell LCSW, Director of Foster Care Debbie Seiler Director of Development Casey Hokanson Foster Care Supervisor Eloisa Molina Director of Maternity Services Jennifer O’Leary LBSW, Director of Adoption Services Maxine Seiler Executive Director

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COVER STORY

By Karen Daniels

F

ounded in 2000, Family to Family Adoptions, is a nonprofit, private adoption agency with a profound dedication to broadening adoption access to more families “based on values of tolerance, understanding, and inclusiveness.”

Maxine Seiler, LCSW, Executive Director

January 2014 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

and founding member, started the agency after working within the court system conducting home case studies involving divorce. She recognized that the agencies were being overly selective in whom they let adopt, ignoring wonderful couples and individuals that would also make wonderful parents. Maxine vowed to change that. “We are about service and making a difference in the kids and families lives.”

It is her philosophy that taking time to get to know everyone involved: birth mothers, adoptive parents, as well as

Adoptions has options siblings, and place children with the most compatible families available, is what sets her agency apart. The agency prides itself for their wide range of acceptance, and do not discriminate on the basis of age, race, religion, marital status, or life style. Other agencies treat adoption like a business.

Family to Family Adoptions is an agency that believes in treating adoption like family.

This past June, Family to Family was licensed to facilitate foster care through their agency and are now looking for dedicated people interested in providing a safe and loving home for at-risk children.

Heather Burrell, LCSW, Director of Foster Care, says the perfect candidates for this life-enhancing event are, “flexible, child advocates with a big heart, but an understanding that in addition to love these kids need guidance, consistency, structure and routine.” Casey Hokanson is Foster Care Supervisor and handles parent recruitment.

There are required steps for those who are interested, such as attend an orientation, receive 30 hours of training, participate in a home study that involves personal interviews with everyone in the home, extensive background checks, CPR and first aid, and reference checks.

Right now, families for ages 6 and up are needed the most. Studies show that families who have children in the home receive mutual benefits when welcoming a foster child. They learn empathy, compassion, and acceptance. These kids will also witness the resilience that foster children typically possess. Length of approval times vary, but generally takes

Casey Hokanson and Heather Burrell

30-45 days. The length of stay will range depending on the need.

Interested in Adoption? The adoption process of an infant begins with similar steps to that of fostering. Interviews, documents, preparation. During this process you will get to know Jennifer O’Leary, LBSW, Director of Adoption Services. Approximately 30 – 35 babies (sometimes twins!) are placed in homes during the course of a year.

After the prospective adoptive parents are approved, their profile is placed in a book. Birth mothers look through these to assist in finding the right family for their baby and the type of contact wanted after the birth—open, semi-open, closed. When the birth mother makes her decision, a meet and greet is set up to get to know one another. If both parties agree, an adoption match is made.

Jennifer explains that, “All of our families

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H January 2014

are home-study approved and are open to contact after placement.”

Family to Family Adoptions places special significance on helping single mothers and young couples with an unplanned pregnancy understand their options. Placing a child up for adoption is one of the hardest decisions they will every make. If adoption is the best choice, Eloisa Molina, Director of Maternity Services, works with the birth mothers to help develop an individual adoption plan that best suits her needs and desires.

“It is my personal goal, responsibility and pleasure to guide each birth mother and adoptive family through this amazing process.”

The immediate needs of the birth mother will be met, such as, Medicaid,

CONTINUES...

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doctor’s appointments, counseling, food, housing, allowance, and transportation for the duration of the pregnancy and a few weeks past. The majority of adoptive families want to share pictures with the birth mother and give letters of updates about how well the child is doing. Good counseling and the opportunity to develop a real relationship is the key to making sure the biological mother, the child, and the adoptive family have a successful and healthy adoption.

Placement statistics at the agency are 70% married couples; 24% same-sex couples, and 6% singles. Interestingly, 12% of these couples have adopted a second child through the agency.

The average wait time for adoption is slightly less than one year.

Since opening their doors, Family to Family Adoptions has placed over 350 children into adoptive homes.

Another type of adoption available at Family to Family is embryo adoption. When couples who have previously struggled with fertility have successfully completed their family through IVF, remaining frozen embryos are often placed for adoption.

This avenue is available for certain couples who have also struggled with fertility or may have genetic factors to consider.

Family to Family Adoptions conducts the home study so that these individuals and couples can become a family, too.

If you have more questions, another key member in the Family to Family - family, is Debbie Seiler. She is Director of Development and co-founder of the agency. “There is no greater joy than placing a child with an adoptive family. Adoption is very near and dear to my heart and making sure your adoption journey is joyous and fulfilling is my personal goal. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you!”

Family to Family Adoptions is a 501(c)3 organization located at 1000 Austin Street, Suite B, Richmond, Texas. There are other ways to support this great cause. In order to continue to help send birth parents to school, help adoptive families who qualify pay for an adoption, and to provide Christmas for birth parents and their children; they need your help. The 2014 calendars are available. Call Debbie at 281-342-4042 or go to their website www.fam2fam.org to make a difference in the lives of others.

UPCOMING EVENTS: Foster Care: OPEN DOOR Information meetings each Wednesday from 10:00am to Noon in our office

ORIENTATION Thursday, January 9th and 23rd at 6:30pm at our office RSVP: casey@fam2fam.org

Adoption: Adoptive Family Workshop Saturday, January 18th • 10:00am to 2:00pm RSVP: max@fam2fam.org Seating is limited. Light lunch is served.

w w w. f a m 2 f a m . o r g 24-Hour Birth Mother Hotline Call Now or Apply Online 1-800-385-6301 Family to Family Adoptions Inc. 1000 Austin Street, Suite B • Richmond, Texas 77469 281-342-4042 Phone • 281-342-4099 Fax

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Jennifer O’Leary, LBSW, Director of Adoption Services

January 2014 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

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Enrique Ramirez Congratulations to Enrique Ramirez, a current freshman at The University of North Texas, for being selected as Texas Direct Auto’s “Scholarship Star” for January! Todd Yarbrough, Manager, presents the $1,000 scholarship. Enrique is a 2013 graduate of Stephen F. Austin High School, where he was an active member of Spanish National Honor Society and National English Honor Society, a charter member of S.W.A.G.G. (Save the World and Go Green) Club and a member of Austin High School Boys’ Baseball and Golf Teams. Enrique is an avid volunteer in the Fort Bend community, where he has contributed his time to Star of Hope Mission, Second Mile Mission and Texana Center. At The University of North Texas, Enrique is pursuing a degree in elementary education. Enrique was selected as part of Texas Direct Auto’s commitment to educational excellence through the “Scholarship Stars” program. Application details are listed at www.fortbendfocus. com.

NEWSWORTHY GOT NEWS? Send your press release to editor@fortbendbusinessjournal.com

Dignitaries open bridge connecting Sienna Plantation and Riverstone A crowd of local officials gathered to officially open a new bridge over the Flat Bank Creek Diversion Channel to connect Fort Bend’s two premier master-planned communities, Sienna Plantation and Riverstone.

The new bridge connects Sienna Springs Road in Sienna Plantation to LJ Parkway in Riverstone, thereby creating a regional

connection to both communities and an alternative to Highway 6. LJ Parkway is named after Larry Johnson, founder of The Johnson Development Corp., the developer of both Sienna Plantation and Riverstone.

The structure officially opened when Larry Johnson and Fort Bend County Judge Bob Hebert each drove golf carts across the bridge for the ceremonial “first drive.” Residents Larry Johnson, founder of The Johnson Development Corp., takes the first drive over a new bridge connecting the Fort Bend master-planned communities of Sienna Plantation and Riverstone. Along for the ride are Larry Wong with Jardain Capital (front row), Missouri City Mayor Allen Owen and Charlie Pence (second row l. to r.) and Rocky Lai (back) with Jardain Capital.

A crowd stretches a banner across a new bridge connecting the Fort Bend master-planned communities of Sienna Plantation and Riverstone. The new bridge extends over the Flat Bank Creek Diversion Channel.

Perry appoints leaders to Texas State Technical Board of Regents The appointment of Ivan Andarza and Keith Honey to the Texas State Technical College System Board of Regents for a term to expire Aug. 31, 2019, was recently announced by Governor Rick Perry.

The Governor also honored chair Ellis Skinner II with a reappointment to the Board. They join TSTC Vice Chair Joe M. Gurecky of Rosenberg, Executive Committee Place 1 Linda McKenna of Harlingen, Penny Forrest of Waco, John K. Hatchel of Woodway, Joe K. Hearne of Dallas, and J.V. Martin of Sweetwater.

The TSTC Board of Regents establishes policies to direct and govern the Texas State Technical College System and to assure compliance with legislative intent. A satellite campus for TSTC is located at the Fort Bend Technical Center in Richmond.

“For nearly 50 years, TSTC has

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been governed by a board of Texas leaders who bring invaluable experience and state-wide influence. Serving for six-year terms, the Regents become a significant part of the TSTC family.

Regents Gene Seaman of Corpus Christi and Mike Northcutt of Longview leave TSTC stronger. The whole system has benefitted from their lasting and positive influence,” said Mike Reeser, Chancellor.

“We also look forward to another six years with Chairman Skinner and are thankful for the fresh perspective that Regents Andarza and Honey bring to the Board,” added Reeser. The TSTC System is governed by a nine-member Board of Regents and operated under the direction of a system wide Chancellor. These Regents, who provide a statewide perspective, are appointed by the governor to six-year terms.

January 2014 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

from both Sienna Plantation and Riverstone also were on hand to express their support of the bridge that is expected to significantly reduce commute times.

“It’s going to make a huge difference in the drive to our schools, shopping areas and employment centers,” noted Sienna Plantation resident Richard Muller. “It’s a life changer for residents of both Sienna Plantation and Riverstone.”

The bridge also provides a second route to the Fort Bend Parkway which currently is being extended from Highway 6 to Sienna Parkway, just south of the Sienna Springs Road intersection.

Sienna Plantation and Riverstone, both of The Johnson Development Corp., are among the nation’s top-selling masterplanned communities. Riverstone ranked #8 and Sienna Plantation #13 in the mid-year 2013 report by Metrostudy of the nation’s top 20 master-planned communities for new home sales.

For more information, visit www. siennaplantation.com. Families also can follow the community on Facebook, www. facebook.com/siennaplantation.

NEWSWORTHY Hebert speaks at West Houston Association’s Tri-County Issues Forum County Judge Bob Hebert spoke at the West Houston Association Tri-County Issues Forum on Monday, December 2, 2013, at the Westchase Marriot in Houston.

A panel of County Judges including Hebert, Judge Emmett of Harris County and Judge Beckendorff of Waller County spoke to a group of stakeholders about current issues and recent successes in their respective counties.

Harris County, Fort Bend County and

Waller County are three adjacent counties that work together to accomplish projects and solve problems that cross county lines.

Judge Hebert said, “I look forward each year to the West Houston Association Tri-County presentation. Judge Emmett and Judge Beckendorff keep me on my toes by always giving an excellent review of their counties.”

Please visit www.fortbendcountynews. info for more information pertaining to local events and updates.

Pictured from left to right: Fort Bend County Judge Bob Hebert; Waller County Judge Glenn Beckendorff and Harris County Judge Ed Emmett

Sugar Land completes largest capital improvement project The city's new $69 million surface water treatment plant near the intersection of Voss and Burney Road in the Gannoway Lake area is operational.

The plant has the distinction of the being the largest capital improvement project ever completed by the City. Construction began in June 2011, and work included an administration/membrane building, chemical building, maintenance building, sludge dewatering building and various treatment units.

The plant was built to meet the Fort Bend Subsidence District's state mandate that 30 percent of the city's water supply must come from a non-groundwater source, a requirement intended to reduce subsidence that contributes to flooding in the area. Subsidence literally means the sinking of land surface. In the greater Houston area, subsidence is largely caused by pumping groundwater from aquifers, which results in the compression of many layers of clay beneath the land surface.

Water suppliers who produce more than 10 million gallons of water per year must establish a plan resulting in a 30 percent reduction of groundwater consumption by 2014 and 60 percent by 2025.

The surface water treatment plant will supply 9 million gallons per day with the capacity to expand to 22 million gallons per

Residents who participated in a taste test on Nov. 8, 2008, returned to sample the final product after Sugar Land placed its new surface water treatment plant in service. Pictured (L-R) are Assistant City Manager Karen Daly; Councilmembers Steve R. Porter and Himesh Gandhi; resident Jim Kij; City Councilmember Harish Jajoo; residents John Novak, Yaffa Steubinger and Tom Coughlin; City Manager Allen Bogard; Senior Project Manager Michael Fox; and resident Jane Goodsill.

day in the future. The city has obtained water rights in Oyster Creek to supply the plant.

Treated surface water leaving the plant will be pumped to two existing groundwater plants and mixed with treated groundwater before entering the citywide distribution system.

"Mixing the two types of water before distribution ensures our customers will

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H January 2014

receive the same high quality, superior tasting drinking water they are accustomed to having flow from the tap," said Assistant Director of Water Utilities Jessie Li. The city has seven groundwater plants, but the surface water treatment plant will be the first plant in the city's potable water system that treats raw surface water to drinking water standards.

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NEWSWORTHY GOT NEWS? Send your press release to editor@fortbendbusinessjournal.com

Fort Bend Commissioner's Court approves occupancy agreement with Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels Fort Bend County Commissioners Court has approved an Occupancy Agreement between Fort Bend County and Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels.

The Bud O’Shieles Community Center has been home to Fort Bend Seniors for 15 years. This new agreement will allow for renovations of the community center that will include the expansion of the current kitchen and the addition of an administrative building.

The occupancy agreement is a $1.5MM commitment to Fort Bend County to be fulfilled by Fort Bend Seniors by 2023.

“This new agreement will allow the Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels to have a place to call their own and enable Fort Bend Seniors to provide so many new services to our cherished generation in Fort Bend County.

The renovations and new construction will eventually allow for new programs, such as: Computer Classes, Exercise Room, Nutrition Education, Crafts and Immediate Service on Hot Meals and Frozen Meals.”

Manuela Arroyos, CEO Fort Bend Seniors.

“This agreement would not have happen without the dedication of the Fort Bend Seniors’ Board and the continued collaborative effort made by the Fort Bend County Commissioners Court with

Commissioner Morrison championing the effort. Commissioner Morrison’s vision and dedication to this project was the keystone to its success”, said David Vasquez, Chairman of the Board, Fort Bend Seniors.

Shown are back row L to R: Rick Forlano (FBS Board Member, Assistant Secretary) Eric Robbins (FBS Board Member), Fort Bend County Commissioner Richard Morrison, Jim Coppedge ((FBS Board Member); front row L to R: Joe Guereky (FBS Board Member, Wanda Sdao (FBS Board Member), Manuela Arroyos (FBS CEO), David Vasquez (FBS Chairman of the Board), and Ray Aguilar (FBS Board Member, Secretary).

Memorial Hermann tabs January 26 for USA FIT Marathon The Memorial Hermann USA FIT Marathon will take place Sunday, January 26. This 8-hour event allows all levels of athletes to participate - from walkers to fast runners. The flat and fast course is certified and produces many runners who qualify for the Boston Marathon.

Participants travel along University Blvd. and over three bridges, each with a slight incline.

The course design allows each participant great visibility so that they can see other participants on the course and meet up with their support crew of friends and family. This out and back route also offers easy access for spectators with several vantage points for viewing the race.

The 13.1 mile route runs from the

30

University of Houston Campus into the beautiful tree-lined subdivisions of Avalon and Telfair. Marathon participants will make a second loop.

Marathon and Half Marathon Participants will receive a finisher’s medal and finisher’s shirt. There are $500.00 cash prizes for Overall Male and Female in the Full Marathon.

The post-race party is incredible with a huge “Food Court”, plenty of drinks, music, and this year - sausage on a stick!

Of course, there will be plenty of healthy foods available too.

The race “Charity of Choice” is the Fort Bend Education Foundation, a 501c3 non-profit. The Foundation provides grants for teachers and schools January 2014 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

in Fort Bend ISD (FBISD) for innovative teaching items or tools that are not part of the normal FBISD budget. The USA FIT Marathon has donated $64,000 to the Foundation.

In this day & age, it is so important to promote a healthy lifestyle - we feel that the USA FIT Marathon event is doing just that through our interaction with athletes of all ages and abilities!

The 6th annual event includes the Memorial Hermann USA Fit Marathon, the USA Fit Half Marathon, and the My Fit Foods 5K, starting and finishing at the University of Houston, Sugar Land campus, 14000 University Blvd., Sugar Land, TX 77479. For information, to register, or to volunteer visit www.usafitmarathon.com.

Upcoming Chamber Event

OF THE CITY STATE Sugar Land Friday, January 24, 2014 7:30 am to 9:30 am

City Manager Allen Bogard

Mayor James A. Thompson

Easy online registration and payment available at www.FortBendChamber.com or fill out and return the registration information below.

REGISTRATION INFORMATION $600 - Corporate Table with seating for 10 and Priority Placement $450 - Corporate Table with seating for 8 $25 - Individual Member Reservation ____number of attendee(s) Attendee(s):

Company Name:

PAYMENT OPTIONS: (circle one) Invoice Me

Check

AmEX

Discover

MasterCard VISA

Contact: Phone: Email: Card Number: Expiration Date: Cardholder Name: Signature: Amount:

Success is just around the Bend.

Please contact Mary Von Tungeln for reservations or information at mary@fortbendcc.org or 281.566.2152 , fax 281.491.0112 Cancellations must be received in writing and confirmed by 3pm Wednesday, January 22nd in order to receive a refund.

www.FortBendChamber.com

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H January 2014

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Sugar Land Marriott Town Square 16090 City Walk - Sugar Land

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

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Welcome New Members

32

Advance Oncology

Clayton Oaks Living

Bushra Cheema, Medical Doctor 16605 SW Freeway, Suite 530 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-201-2355 Physicians, Oncology

Patty Walker, General Manager 21175 SW Freeway Richmond, TX 77469 832-595-0341 Senior Living

Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc.

DePelchin Children’s Center

Thomas Ballard, Houston Complex Director 2277 Plaza Dr., Suite 650 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-494-2800 Financial Services

Jenn Cole, Program Coordinator 10435 Greenbough Ste 101 Stafford, TX 77477 713-730-2335 Health & Wellness

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Houston - Fort Bend

Felix Garcia, Certified Business/ Executive Coach 15015 West Airport Blvd. # 1213 Sugar Land, TX 77498 281-639-8738 Consultants, Professional Training

Raul Garcia, Recruitment Manager 6437 High Star Dr. Houston, TX 77074 281-207-2330 Associations

BurgerFi Michael Ghirardi, General Manager 16535 SW Freeway, Suite 2610 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-494-1196 Restaurants

Focal Point

French Fry Heaven Nikesh Jasani, Owner 16535 SW Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77479 832-928-6264 Restaurants

Jennifer Whitis, CPA PLLC Jennifer Whitis, Certified Public Accountant 7320 Highway 90A, Ste 130 Sugar Land, TX 77478 832-532-0191 Bookkeeping

KBRZ Sports Radio 1460AM & 95.1FM 6-10PM Shana Sonnier, Marketing & Sales 10614 Rockley Road Houston, TX 77099 281-575-1270 Advertising Services

MemberSource Credit Union Frances Ward, Business Development Director 10100 Richmond Ave. Houston, TX 77042 713-244-1146 Loans

National Senior Care Home Health

Reformed Body Rachel Hosea, Founder, Co-Owner 3527 Highway 6 Suite #220 Sugar Land, TX 77478 832-532-7986 Fitness Center

Shear Inspiration, Inc. Courtney Mosquinski, Owner/Hair Dresser 15315 SW Freeway, Suite 156/157 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-207-4121 Salons, Hair

Solid Green Systems David Carolan, Founder and CEO 12400 Hwy 71 West, Suite 350 Austin, TX 78738 (512) 634-8996 Building Material

Zprepay Parvez Jasani, CEO 4252 Bluebonnet Dr. Stafford, TX 77477 281-415-7375 Telecommunications

Kelli Walleck, Account Executive 6150 Richmond Ave., #Suite 214 Houston, TX 77057 713-780-2390 Home Health Care

January 2014 H Fort Bend Business Journal

www.FortBendChamber.com

MALISHA PATEL Chief Operations Officer, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital

MARY ANN WENDT General Manager, Community Impact Newspapers

KAMAL ARISS Vice President, JE Dunn

JONATHAN PURSCH Vice President, Frost Bank

AMBER STEVENSON Agent, McDonald & Wessendorf

MIKE DOBERT Owner, HR in Alignment

MONROE ASHWORTH Vice President|Branch Operations Manager, Stewart Title

SHAY SHAFIE General Manager, Imperial by the Johnson Development Company

MARK KOLON General Sales Manager, Classic Chevrolet

JENNY SMITH SVP – Business Development/Facilities Smart Financial

NONA AUSTIN-KING Senior Marketing Manager, Minute Maid DAVE LOWE Director of Public Works, Brown & Gay Engineers, Inc.

ATUL DHINGRA COO & Managing Partner, Spheir ER CHRISTINA HAWKINS President, Globalspecs, Inc.

BARKLEY PESCHEL President, Ironstone Realty Advisors

BEN PRESSENTIN Market President West Houston, BB&T

SHAUN COARD Senior Vice President, Wells Fargo Bank

CHIP SUTTON Partner, Linebarger Goggin Blair & Simpsons

www.FortBendChamber.com

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce is pleased to welcome our newest members to the 2014 Board of Directors.

We are grateful for their leadership and the combined talents and experience they bring to the Chamber.

Fort Bend Business Journal H January 2014

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Success is just around the bend 1 YEAR

SWE Pamela Daniel, 281-240-3586 Deseo at Grand Mission Marie Compton, 281-344-0055 Westin Homes and Properties, L.P. Patrick McHugh, 281-240-1551 Quail Valley Golf Course Tyson Stittleburg, 281-403-5910 Ogle School Hair Skin Nails Michelle Merchant, 281-494-0106 Pursley, McNamara and Flint, PLLC Mallorie McNamara, 281-969-5452

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Ibn Sina Foundation, Inc Shahnaz Ajani, 281-438-7462

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American Cancer Society Betti Guzman, 713-706-5690 Radley Management, LLC Cody Radley, 281-513-1419 BHGRE Gary Greene Linda Bell, 281-684-9112 Associated Testing Laboratories, Inc. Priti Singh, 713-748-3717 Chicago Title Rebecca Haass, 281-565-1027 Turquoise Grill & Bar Yilmaz “Jim” Dokuyuca, 281-937-7481 Sugar Land Skeeters Kyle Dawson, 281-240-4487 SugarLandPC.com Charles Swihart, 281-494-0894

Kindercare - Greatwood Sheri Crochet, 281-343-9979

Post Oak Bank Brian Tave, 713-439-3900

Laura Gallier CPA, PC Laura Gallier, 281-460-7197 Churrascos Nicole Green, 832-532-5300

Milestone Member 5 YEARS

SIG/McDonald & Wessendorff Insurance Services Dan McDonald, 281-342-6837

2 YEARS

Out of the Box Design, LLC Keron Weathered, 713-269-5475 Braman Winery Sean Heyl, 281-762-1375 PW Stephenson & Co., P.C. Phil Stephenson, 979-532-5964

Molina Walker Architects, Inc. Mary Walker, 713-782-8188 Team Sansone - RE/MAX Fine Properties Lizz Sansone, 281-753-0333 BHGRE Gary Greene Debbie Marcell, 281-782-2102

9 YEARS

The Mathis Group Joseph H. Mathis, 281-265-6028 McDonough Engineering Corporation Ranney McDonough, 713-975-9990

3 YEARS

AAAron Property Investments Apurva Parikh, 281-935-3119

The Old Trading Post Dave Vogelsang, 281-545-8064

8 YEARS

6 YEARS

Emerus 24 Hour Emergency Room Toby Hamilton, 281-277-0911 Hillwood Communities Lisa Chahin, 972.201.2934

7 YEARS

SERVPRO of Stafford/Missouri City Kristyn Hollen, 281-403-2256

LaBarge Inc. Michelle Peterson, 281-207-1357

Omni Flow Computers, Inc. Daniel Stoller, 281-240-6161

Jamail & Smith Construction Jim Jamail, 281-461-7075

January 2014 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

Milestone Member 10 YEARS Frederick P. Forlano, Attorney at Law Frederick P. Forlano, 713-621-6611

11 YEARS

Willie’s Grill & Icehouse #6 Jonni Ann Moore, 281-242-2252 Princeton Classic Homes / Legend Homes Carly Crawford, 281-671-9000 Star Furniture Company Bill Barnum, 281-342-7827 Sugar Land Marriott Town Square & Conference Center Erica Seigneur, 281-275-8400

12 YEARS

Inter-Active Health Care, Inc. Wilma Narvacan, 281-892-2000 Rosenberg-Richmond Helping Hands, Inc. Accounts Payable , 281-232-4904

www.FortBendChamber.com

Sugar Lakes Family Practice Dr. John Pozzi, 281-565-2800 Sugar Lakes Family Practice Dr. John Vanderzyl, 281-565-2800 The Terrace at First Colony Justin Morin, 281-903-2000

14 YEARS

Thai Cottage II Ken Torprasitkul, 281-313-0707

Milestone Member 15 YEARS River Pointe Church Beth Harborth, 281-277-6767

Denny’s Raymond G. Sewell, 281-208-2231 Storage Choice C.W. Walsh, 281-313-3000

16 YEARS

Hampton Inn / Stafford Joseph Sherfield, 281-565-0559 Baker Petrolite Jim Lockwood, 281-276-5400 Nectron International, Inc. Mark Kardoush, 281-240-2222 Quail Valley Church Curry Juneau, 281-499-0594

HDR Engineering, Inc. James Andrews, 713-622-9264

18 YEARS

APAD First Colony LLC Allison Woodall, 281-243-7000

19 YEARS

Cy Sanders, CPA Cy Sanders, CPA, 281-491-9100 Fastsigns Jenifer Castro, 281-491-7446 TBG Partners John L. Wallace, 713-439-0027 Studio 6 Joe McDonald, 281-240-6900

22 YEARS

Houston Assoc. of Realtors Fort Bend Branch Rhonda Flowers, 713-335-4240 David Taylor Cadillac / Buick / GMC Rick Frazier, 713-777-7151

24 YEARS

Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels Manuela Arroyos, 281-633-7049 Ed’s Pharmacy Ed Sziy, 281-499-4555

Milestone Member 25 YEARS AccessHealth Carol Edwards, 281-342-4530

Fort Bend Regional Council on Substance Abuse, Inc. Lisa Poynor, 281-207-2400

26 YEARS

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

27 YEARS

Garrett-Boyd, DDS, MS, Inc. F.A. Garrett, 281-980-3900 KW Industries, Inc. James White, 281-240-0909 Jerdon Enterprise, LP Bruce White, 281-261-5000

28 YEARS

Stafford Municipal School District Lance Hindt, 281-261-9200

29 YEARS

Brown & Gay Engineers, Inc. David Lowe, 281-558-8700

Milestone Member 30 YEARS John M. Thomas, PC John Thomas, 713-201-9905

32 YEARS

Whitley Penn, LLP John M. Null, 713-621-1515

39 YEARS

Stewart Title Mary Alice Gonzalez, 281-491-7050

17 YEARS

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

For membership information, contact:

PerryLee Home Health Care Services, Inc. Marion Tresvant, 281-491-2200

www.FortBendChamber.com

25 YEARS

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

13 YEARS

Jan-Michael Jenkins 281-491-0218 jan@fortbendcc.org

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H January 2014

35

Ribbon Cuttings Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop 2228 Texas Drive Sugar Land, Texas 77479 (281) 242-4300 www.capriottis.com

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

C

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apriotti’s aims to share our passion with others, one sandwich at a time. This company was founded over 30 years ago in Wilmington, Delaware by Lois Margolet who wanted to share her love of food and family. Named after her grandfather, Philip Capriotti, Lois and her family began slow roasting whole turkeys each night and shredding them by hand the next morning. This concept is still carried on to this day and is a measure of what sets Capriotti’s apart from others. We pride ourselves on serving only the freshest of ingredients. Each sandwich is made-to-order with the best quality meats and cheeses,

and fresh rolls baked daily. Capriotti’s strives to ensure that each guest receives extraordinary service and an unforgettable sandwich. Our commitment to excellence and high quality ingredients has earned Capriotti’s countless awards over the past few decades including “Greatest Sandwich in America”

by AOL’s Lemondrop readers. Capriotti’s is open seven days a week and is located in the Sugar Land Town Square at 2228 Texas Drive.

Solid Green Systems

12400 Highway 71 West, Suite 350 Austin,, TX 78738 512-634-8996 www.solidgreensystems.com

BurgerFi

16535 Southwest Freeway, Suite 2610 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-494-1196 www.burgerfi.com

January 2014 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

www.FortBendChamber.com

www.FortBendChamber.com

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H January 2014

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

www.FortBendChamber.com

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Upcoming Chamber Event OUT OF THIS WORLD!

CHAIRMAN’S GALA 1 31 2014

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

presented by

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LAUNCH LOCATION: SAFARI TEXAS BALLROOM 11627 FM 1464 RD RICHMOND, TX N 29’ 38.769’ - W 095’ 40.6004’

LIFT OFF 06:30:00 PM MISSION: FUN & FRIVOLITY

COMPLIMENTARY LIBATIONS NO AUCTION GUARANTEE DINNER AND DANCING BLACK TIE OPTIONAL

Mission Control Sponsor - $3,000

Premier craft seating for 10 Hyatt Place Sugar Land package for 2 Recognition in marketing materials

Lunar Landing Sponsor - $2,000 Featuring Live Musical Entertainment by

FRIED ICE CREAM

Seating for 8 Recognition in marketing materials

Astronaut Crew Sponsor - $1,000 Seating for 8

Passenger Ticket - $100 Hyatt Place Sugar Land Package - $100

Deluxe room, Transportation to/from Gala

FortBendChamber.com January 2014 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

www.FortBendChamber.com

SPECIAL FEATURES FEBRUARY 2014 H FORT BEND / KATY BUSINESS JOURNAL

FAMILY OWNED BUSINESSES

TECHNOLOGY AND COMMUNICATION

Fort Bend County has many entrepreneurs.

February’s issue will highlight these businesses, you have the opportunity to be part of this feature. Make readers aware of your business and possibly share some success secrets to help others.

We cannot live in today’s world without it!

Every day is new in the world of technology.

Your business can be highlighted in this feature. Many companies need to know where they can turn for upgrades, repairs and information.

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Fort Bend/Katy

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H January 2014

39

DBA (Assumed Names)

Data Beat (+) = More Names

This is a sample of the Assumed Names (DBAs) filed at the Fort Bend County Clerk’s office for November 2013. More Assumed Names may be viewed online at http://ccweb.co.fort-bend.TX.us/RealEstate/SearchEntry.aspx. There were 354 Assumed Names for month of November.

Rothschild Bryan (+) Broths1222 24200 Southwest Freeway Suite 402 #200 77471

G & W Consultants LLC The Tutoring Center (+) 2001 Katy Mills Blvd Ste F 77494

Siddiquie Tariq Equus Texas 10403 Centennial Bridge Ct 77498

Portillo Jose (+) Lluvia Investments 7011 Descartes Drive 77407

Upper-Class Logistics L L C Upper-Class Collision 13530 Mcgrath Rd Ste E 77047

Marroquin Mark Anthony (+) Anthony’s Concrete Works 2510 Bridge Hampton Way 77479

Vargas Stephen Frederic Steve’s Auto Repair 1300 Avenue H 77471 Weston Michael (+) Hawk Haven 34021 Fulshear Farms Rd 77441 Torres Ben Whatahubby Handyman Srvcs 319 Center St 77477

Richfield Real Estate Corporation Richfield 10001 Westheimer Rd Suite 2888 77042

Shao Sherry (+) Mon Cherie Macarons 15106 Snow Hill Ct 77498

Hartifield Drysdale Inc (+) Lawn Doctor of Sugar LandRichmond 20502 Autumn Terrace Ln 77450

Saranathan Kas (+) Meenakshi Theaters 4606 Millstone Canyon Ln 77479

Hartfield Drysdale Inc (+) Lawn Doctor of South Katy 20502 Autumn Terrace Ln 77450

Tlh Enterprises Inc Rent-A-Center of Rosenberg #1 4020 Avenue H 77471

Beckham Kevin D (+) Energy Resource Solutions of Texas 22555 Bristolwood Ct 77494

Tlh Enterprises Inc Rent-A-Center of Rosenberg #2 3801 Avenue H 77471 Loughlin Jasmine (+) Ink With Purpose 10703 Garden Place Dr 77498 Ifeanyi Casmir Chinedu Greenfield Autos 19202 Opul Trails Ct 77407 Murphy Melissa (+) Blessed and Distressed 17227 Maple Hollow Dr 77498 Abdul Wahab Hammed A (+) Hamex Investments Limited 19002 Missouri Park Drive Apt 1124 77407 Suku Sunil Neil Productions 1258 Spinnaker Way 77498

40

Fiesta Mart Inc Fiesta Market Place 13883 Southwest Fwy 77478

Guerra Jeremy (+) A-1 Athletix 6560 Greatwood Pkwy #1200 77479

Avt Trading LLC Lonestar Sinks 15511 Hwy 6 77583

Debose Durwin T D-One Tha Chosen 9423 Tooley Dr 77031

Comodet Inc Optimal Sports Performance 867 Dulles Ave 77477

James Rhonda Renee’s Transportation Srvc 1202 River Rock Dr 77489

Debose Durwin T Street Money Entertainment/Promotions 9423 Tooley Dr 77031

Burkett Derrick Alpha Detailing 10707 Corporate Dr Suite 126 77477

Le Lisa Od Pa (+) Texas State Optical Telfair 13425 Universety Blvd Ste 800 77479

Clark Francile Ocean Water Publishing 8807 High Ridge Lane 77469

Oasis Tran Inc Oasis Super Wash 12415 Sugar Dale Dr 77477 Araissi Ghezala (+) Adams Auto Gallery 7557 Fairbanks N Houston Rd 77040 Mwangi Roselyn Wanjiru Grand Trucking Corporation 1502 Phoenician Drive 77494 Watson Sheena Sheena Watson Photography 7913 Short Rd 77461 Guerra Maria S (+) Sofi Guerra Photography 1302 Bridle Path 77471 Ames Thomas A Heirloom Rosary Studio 5427 Whitmore St 77441

Le Lisa Od Pa (+) TSO Telfair 13425 University Blvd Ste 800 77479 Le Lisa Od Pa (+) Primevision 13425 University Blvd Ste 800 77479 Mcwashington Nillie (+) Ne Mo Entertainment 1015 Riverchase Drive 77469 Sellers James D Optimal Sports Performance 867 Dulles Ave 77477

1988 Cody Allen LLC Dot’s Liquor #1 12207 Hwy 6 Ste B 77545

Parker Marilyn (+) Parker-Lavalais Family Reunion Po Box 516 77459

Meade Karen Heritage Carriage Company 9911 Providence 77461

Rodriguez Manuel Jr Rodriguez Painting 14206 Clear Forest Dr 77498

Le Ngoc-Cam Thi (+) Kay Le 11333 Fountain Lake Dr Suite E4 77477

Solaiman Sandra Holistic Shine Health Coach 54 Azure Lake Ct 77494

Castaneda Esther A (+) The International Plate (+) 1707 Post Oak Blvd #504 77056 Bazile Elton Joseph Jr Bazile Trucking 2111 Silverloaf Dr 77489 Alvarez Joel Vintage Road Kitchens Zaka Nashib 5716 Jensen Dr 77026 Zaka 2515 E Pebble Beach 77459 Redmond Charmaine P (+) Soigne Boutique Houston Honore Jordan A Po Box 16463 77496 Platinum Collection Company 162 Kingsway Dr 77477 Aspirations & Mentoring Inc College Nannies & Tutors Gloria Lilian Sugar Land TX 1610 Lake Charlotte Ln 77406 Dolcerella’s Sugar Creations 7326 Chasegrove Ln 77407 Showen Fairrus What’s The Occasion 1111 Judy Terrace 77489

Viazanko Kurt M (+) The Wizard Information Technology (+) 14231 Fm 1464 Apt 6208 77498 Rafique Muhammed (+) A J Motors 6820 South Hwy 36 77471 Certos LLC Unishippers 9510 Amethyst Arbor Ln 77494 Elsaadi Faten Decor and Antiques 3202 South Main 77477

January 2014 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

Mcclung-Hetz Alicia (+) Wegonnagetya Legal Srvcs 3130 Grants Lake Blvd #20014 77496 Pike Megan Ravel 13723 Brightfield 77498 Davis Brenda (+) Qt Home Services Plus 7311 Castleview Ln 77489 Porter Taylor Rae Texmark Industries 3518 Cat Springs Lane 77459 Olivares Jesus (+) J. O. Landscaping (+) P O Box 742451 77274 Howard Jacob Rockology Music Academy 3530 Junction Bend Ln 77494 Goodspeed Pest Solutions Goodspeed Pest Solutions 3102 W Heatherock Circle 77479 Morgan Kathy Morgan Consultants 13003 Murphy Rd Ste 4 N3 77477 Ak Education LLC Best In Class 3750 S Mason Road 77450 Ak Education LLC Best In Class Education Center 3750 S Mason Road 77450 Cerf William L Jr (+) Lincoln Transport 3127 Thomas Paine 77459 Romeo Barbara Ann (+) Synergy Health For Life 13427 Fm 442 77461

DBA (Assumed Names) Bizchise Advisors LLC Transworld Business Advisors of Houston 22136 Westheimer Pkwy 77450

Data Beat (+) = More Names

Price Nicholas L (+) Lmc Medical Transportation 8325 Broadway St. #202-97

Hernandez Oscar E.S.3 Technology 4619 Leicester Way 77459

Love Jonathon Toxik 7514 Winterview 77489

Jamison Keisha Soldiers In Spiritual Warfare 3410 Danbury Chase Trl 77545

Dominguez Chris J C & J’s Floor Care (+) 3515 Heartland Key Ln 77450

Alvarado Katrina Jaso Madam DJ 23027 S Waterlake Dr 77406

Emmaus Road Church Emmaus Road Church 14806 Delbarton Dr 77083

Hobbs D’shyra A Heart For Haili Foundation 8327 Chelsea Bend Ct 77083

Berlin Nathan (+) Vintage Rehab 29019 Davenport Dr 77494

Upton Kevin M Envy Lawn Coloring 7607 Crescent Lake Ct 77469

Gonzales Mary Lorraine Malogo’s Bowtique 6527 Tamarind Sky Ln 77441

Ke Shi Vivitro 2631 Turning Row Ln 77459

Willis Ashley (+) Best Response CPR and First Aid 20115 Turtle Brook Ln 77407

Tran Tanya Bellagio Nail & Spa 1129 University Blvd 77478

Harrison Renee Designing Windows 1542 Brookstone Lane 77479

Walters Andrew (+) Ravenworks West 20019 Cape Clover Trl 77407

Jan Aziz A To Z Auto Inspection 13510 West Belfort Ave #C11 77498

Missouri City Chamber of Commerce Foundation Missouri City Chamber of Commerce Foundation 16531 Lacey Lane 77489

Clay Lacresha Buckn’ Entertainment and Events 15727 Corsair Rd 77053

Ahmed Nargis Fatima Muslim Democratic Caucus of Texas - Great Houston 15323 Black Falls Ln 77498

Timpano Marty Lifestyle Properties 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd Ste H120 #213 77494

Rodriguez Yamila TX Trucking 19700 Fm 1093 77407

Salih Holdings & Acquisitions LLC Oblique Networks LLC 11569 Hwy 6 South Ste 149 77498

Missouri City Chamber of Commerce Missouri City Chamber of Commerce 16531 Lacey Lane 77489

Wu Jie Peace Insurance Agency 5911 Willowfield Ct 77479 Phelps Sherry (+) Cindy’s Silver Linings 1411 Alderwood Dr 77479 Thomas Barbara Ann Destinations Meetings Travel Agency 1703 Stone Lake 77489 Baig Shahina S. Baig Financial Services Po Box 780 77492

Caston Katrina M Sole of A Diva 14001 Fondren Rd 77489 Plihal Jennifer Three Sisters Farm 14025 Oak Lake Village Dr 77461 Martinez Beatriz E Rnfa (+) Sugar Land Supportive Healthcare Services 13003 Brynwood Lane 77498

Littleton Raymond (+) Lsh Petroleum Services 7322 Southwest Freeway Ste 472 77074 Mata Jesse Fort Bend Postal Center 310 Morton St 77469

Sb Tax & Accounting Pllc S. Baig Financial Services Po Box 780 77492

Jacobus James Robert Champion Education Resources 17424 W Grand Parkway South # 403 77479 Perm

Stokes Vonda Lee (+) Feather Your Nest 900 S 3Rd Street 77471

Santos Melissa Anne Breakthrough Productions 25502 Clover Ranch Dr 77494

Krishi, Inc Jay Patel 5414 Gable Meadows Dr 77479

Schiffer Magdalena Pt Dpt (+) Icare Physical Therapy 2400 Old South Dr Apt 2428 77406

Boyt and Grubbs Construction LLC Custom Stone Countertops 810 Misty Ridge Ct 77479 Randal Jeffrey (+) Northern Beacon Financial Solutions 8822 Diamond Lake Ln 77083

Bisiriyu Olufemi Energac Limited 14914 Honeymoon Bridge 77498 Trinh To Quyen (+) Grand Alkes Nails & Spa 6920 S Fry Rd #E 77494 Hubbard Yvonne Christanity Financial Srvcs LLC Thompson William M (+) Prime Electronic Recycling Company 10101 Fondren Rd Ste 244 77096 Khoury Michael Mbk - Chuckwagon Deli 12053 Southwest Frwy 77477 Murphy Gail Y Gail Made It Designs Jazz’n Gail Jewelry 1814 Plantation Dr 77406 Refugio Apollo Bikol Express Transport Inc 11935 Brighton Lane 77477

White John Scott (+) In Demand Tickets 1860 Fm 359 Pmb 165 77406

Maherali Shiraz Sims & More 518 Taskwood Dr 77469

Garcia Blanca E Zumbalicious Dance Fitness 4619 Leicester Way 77459

Esaklul Ahmed Running Hot Curb Painting 6018 Starbrook Creek Dr 77494

Neveu Sandra Distinguished Concepts 3503 Carmine Glen 77459 Neveu Sandra Pristine Clean Mini Maid Service 3503 Carmine Glen 77459 Davis Vickie Davis Property Management 20411 Drakewood Dr 77449 Lopez Fabian H M Auto Sales 16723 Sentinel Dr 77053 Sabzghabaian Keeyan Keeyan Sabz 1650 Hwy 6 South Ste 350 77478 Wellington Tamara Wellington Fashion Inc. 7302 Tower View Ln 77489 Ruggiero Jan Donkar Blue Jean Christmas 24418 Bella Veneza Dr 77406 Tall Zac Entertainment Get Money Team 3303 Confederate Ct 77459 Breedlove Freddie III (+) Breed Designs 19002 Larkspur Hill 77433 Ena Professional Services LLC Ena Services 17424 W Grand Pkwy S 251 77479

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H January 2014

Duru Ifunanya B Concept Home Health Services 8901 Riverwell Circle - W 77083 Smith Valarie (+) Rockjoy 3226 The Highlands Dr 77478 Wharton Wendy G To-Do: Ta-Da! 11026 South Auden Cir 77459 Nzams Charles Epie Zams 710 Summer Trace Ln 77406 Mpanugo Adaku Thrift Vava 1006 Ruverchase Drive 77469 SSC Richmond Operating Company LLC Brazosview Healthcare Center 2127 Preston 77469 Ssc Richmond Operating Company LLC First Colony Health and Rehabilitation Center 4710 Lexington Blvd 77459 Jafrani Holdings Inc Dove Elder Care 1006 Mockingbird Way 77478 Katy Gentle Smiles Pllc Designer Smiles Dentistry 5011 Highway 6 77459 Healthgenix LLC Healthgenix 19607 Norfolk Ridge Way 77407 Healthgenix LLC Healthgenix Care 19607 Norfolk Ridge Way 77407 Castaneda Martha Photo Dreams 26122 Parkman Grove Dr 77406 Moutra Johnnie V III All-Star Recording Parties PO Box 1339 77545 Gilani Nizamuddin Global Novelty Wholesale 5556 New Territory #3208 77479 S M I L E Ministries S.M.I.L.E. Ministries 1720 Southmore Blvd 77004 Darby Angelic Serenity’s Automotive Wheels & Tires 1703 Texas Pkwy 77489

41

Data Beat

December 2013 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

Percent Change

2013 Payments To Date

2012 Payments To Date

Percent Change

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

53,853.73 8,772.35 69,281.92 918.61 103,280.83 563,367.72 35,731.26 3,669.48 5,155.37 345,497.25 1,198,751.60 14,311.32 1,302,740.59 3,888,594.31 0.00

37,946.80 6,822.41 54,311.56 750.21 82,804.78 551,428.89 33,722.52 3,448.33 4,158.92 320,761.87 1,067,245.28 13,171.63 1,212,565.30 3,652,193.54 0.00

41.91% 28.58% 27.56% 22.44% 24.72% 2.16% 5.95% 6.41% 23.95% 7.71% 12.32% 8.65% 7.43% 6.47% U/C

467,470.01 108,104.67 792,188.38 11,191.79 1,136,755.22 7,361,682.28 413,299.82 43,104.52 56,652.38 4,513,943.06 14,064,922.26 198,242.52 16,105,601.68 45,101,880.18 28,447.77

377,504.54 93,711.88 649,843.57 12,576.77 1,043,312.37 6,566,631.29 430,523.63 43,422.42 76,311.96 4,067,934.79 12,816,054.26 177,691.56 14,591,700.12 43,557,020.27 11,119.50

23.83% 15.35% 21.90% -11.01% 8.95% 12.10% -4.00% -0.73% -25.76% 10.96% 9.74% 11.56% 10.37% 3.54% 155.83%

COUNTY TOTAL

7,593,926.34

7,041,332.04

7.84%

90,403,486.54

84,515,358.93

6.96%

Top 20 City Sales and Use Tax Comparison Summary - December 2013 Please note that Sugar Land is 17th in sales tax revenues in the state.

City

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

42

Net Payment This Period

48,830,150.05 22,765,300.51 20,006,216.69 13,502,914.99 9,614,926.64 6,649,158.27 5,962,659.11 5,897,100.17 5,726,184.80 5,427,402.24 5,474,730.90 4,386,122.11 4,630,549.69 4,976,355.45 4,667,963.48 4,326,718.67 3,888,594.31 3,404,318.16 3,048,018.14 3,378,601.81

Comp Payment Prior Year

46,536,300.86 19,643,441.70 18,853,929.67 13,735,937.24 9,341,901.97 6,795,341.36 5,893,480.89 5,989,260.30 5,253,519.87 5,020,194.50 4,707,720.57 4,622,358.50 4,742,960.05 4,498,371.28 4,308,512.81 3,869,647.68 3,652,193.54 3,481,399.01 3,072,171.65 3,317,308.32

% Change To Date

4.92% 15.89% 6.11% -1.69% 2.92% -2.15% 1.17% -1.53% 8.99% 8.11% 16.29% -5.11% -2.37% 10.62% 8.34% 11.81% 6.47% -2.21% -0.78% 1.84%

2013 Payments To Date

608,189,684.14 269,947,329.76 242,456,290.49 167,597,269.54 118,919,448.63 94,043,809.70 76,088,455.43 75,831,659.92 70,744,050.95 69,804,508.62 67,452,273.11 60,646,913.43 59,737,582.68 59,047,699.71 58,676,772.13 52,937,004.75 45,101,880.18 43,486,338.29 40,530,208.36 40,348,338.91

January 2014 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

2012 Payments Change

569,942,545.15 244,094,371.26 232,445,766.10 158,855,260.91 112,745,846.61 88,941,229.13 72,581,730.33 74,164,329.40 65,386,226.61 68,410,251.45 62,834,141.02 59,167,296.36 55,916,147.14 53,702,908.47 49,889,488.45 48,912,322.17 43,557,020.27 40,815,462.01 41,225,156.87 36,450,650.51

Percent

6.71% 10.59% 4.30% 5.50% 5.47% 5.73% 4.83% 2.24% 8.19% 2.03% 7.34% 2.50% 6.83% 9.95% 17.61% 8.22% 3.54% 6.54% -1.68% 10.69%

Data Beat

Commercial Building Permits

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

TYPE OF PERMIT

VALUE

RICHMOND 1305 Clay Street

Commercial Building

$1,053,382

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial)

11/01/13-11/30/13

$1,053,382

26111 Southwest Fwy 1209 Avenue I

Commercial Building Commercial Building

$700,000 $2,500

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial)

02/01/13-02/28/13

$702,500

STAFFORD 1115 Staffordshire 12802 Murphy Road 10203 Mula Circle 112 Avenue F 13701 Stafford Point Dr 4434 Bluebonnet 12950 South Kirkwood 4659 Wright Road 13645 Muprhy Road 13119 Mula Court 4727 South Main

Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building

$15,000 $200,000 $8,000 $5,000 $1,952,033 $18,000 $375,425 $13,000 $75,000 $19,000 $21,000

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial)

11/01/13-11/30/13

$2,701,523

SUGAR LAND 4523 LJ Parkway 6520 US Hwy 90A 130 Eldridge Rd Bldg 14A-F 7616 Branford Pl 13302 Alston Rd 1226 Museum Square Dr Ste 300 13425 University Blvd Ste 800 555 Industrial Blvd HCS Bldg 13425 University Blvd Ste 600 3 Sugar Creek Center Blvd Ste 550 4427 State Hwy 6 Ste F 13425 University Blvd Ste 1000 2245 Texas Dr Ste 290 14100 Southwest Fwy Ste 430 1550 First Colony Blvd 16535 Southwest Fwy Ste K5587 16535 Southwest Fwy Ste K5556 13017 Jess Pirtle Blvd Ste 100 One Fluor Daniel Dr Bldg B5 16535 Southwest Fwy PAD 2004 16562 Southwest Fwy 3528 State Hwy 6 4945 Sweetwater Blvd 77 Sugar Creek Center Blvd Ste 200 1200 Soldiers Field Dr 14141 Southwest Fwy Ste 160 300 Schlumberger Dr Ste 100 17510 W Grand Pkwy S Ste 550 12645 W Airport Blvd 1327 Lake Pointe Pkwy Ste 500

Commercial New Commercial New Commercial New Commercial New Commercial New Commercial Buildout Commercial Buildout Commercial Buildout Commercial Buildout Commercial Buildout Commercial Buildout Commercial Buildout Commercial Buildout Commercial Buildout Commercial Addition Commercial Addition Commercial Addition Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel

$1,500,000 $600,000 $245,000 $1,500,000 $1,950,000 $131,500 $48,500 $353,000 $50,790 $651,464 $3,950 $48,950 $335,588 $51,500 $430,000 $34,720 $10,000 $21,500 $604,398 $425,000 $45,100 $115,422 $36,800 $120,000 $136,800 $589,072 $228,015 $41,511 $161,331 $37,033

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial)

11/01/13-11/30/13

$10,522,882

ROSENBERG

OWNER/CONTRACTOR Attack Poverty Public Assembly Complex/Rosenberger Construction Company

CNG America CPV

Cable & Supplies/Jeff Buis Modern Optical/Eliazar M Chacko IES Residential Rogelio Ortega Abraham Grocery & Wholesale Robert Macey LIT Industrial Cooper Valves Park Greenbriar Ltd Inland Electric Joe Salvide

Suntech Building Systems, Inc Hwy 6 & 90, LTD/Arrowmont Constructors New York Real Estate Inc Ft Bend LID #17/American Commercial Contractor Alief Church of Christ/McCollum & Associates NNP-Telfair, LP/HM General Contractors NNP-Telfair, LP/TK Design & Construction LLC Vector Cable Co/Southern Facility Srv Const NNP-Telfair, LP/Fusion Trens Business LLC American National Insurance Co/Byrd Interior Construction, LP Colony Professional Plaza, LP/JC General Contractors LLC NNP-Telfair, LP/Provest Group Inc Town Center Laqkeside, LTD/O’Donnell/Snider Construction RMC Sugarcraft LP ETAL/Ruppel Construction NNN Healthcare/Office Reit Tri/Blanco Electric LTD Co First Colony Mall, LLC/AGW Interiors, Inc First Colony Mall, LLC/See’s Candies Monticello Houston Properties/New York Real Estate Inc Lakepointe Assets, LLC/Hammonds Construction LLC First Colony Mall, LLC/Royal Seal Construction, Inc Inland Western Sugar Land Colo/Ming Construction HSMEP William Trace, LP/Target Design and Management Columbia Retail Sweetwater Plz/Stillo Construction LLC NNN Sugar Creek Center LLC ETA/Canon Enterprise, Inc Third Cross Copperstone, Inc/Energy Prospecting Technology California State EMP RET System/Turner Construction Company Schlumberger Technology Corp/Hammonds Construction LLC Memorial Herman Hospital/Meridian Constructors, LLC Texan Petrolite LTD Partnership/Benchmark Houston Builders, LP Dr. Hernandez/Strain Construction Services

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H January 2014

43

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

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

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

Alterations & Tailoring

SERVICE DIRECTORY

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

44

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

Charlton’s Auto Body Repair and Vehicle Detailing 281-499-1126 www.charltonsbodyrepair.com Chuck Charlton, 1131 Staffordshire @ 5th Street, Stafford, Texas 77477, Charbody@aol.com, Fax: 281-499-1694, Complete collision repair. Frame & Unibody straightened. Expert computer color matching. Custom painting & pin stripping. Honest service. 79 Years Strong and 3 Generations Proud!

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

First Tire & Automotive 281-313-2886 www.firsttireandauto.com Craig Popp, owner, 3 Sugar Land Locations. 960 Eldridge, 281-313-2886 & 2303 Williams Trace Blvd.

281-980-2666 (First Colony), 20015 Southwest Freeway. 281-343-5666 (Greatwood), Diagnostic testing and evaluation, Manufacturer’s routine recommended maintenance, domestic and foreign vehicle repairs, AAA approved, ASE certified. Ask about our Fleet Service!

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

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

Catering Salata www.salata.com Salata is a fresh and unique way to eat healthy and create your own freshly prepared hand tossed salad or salad wrap. Offering over 50 toppings of fruits and vegetables with the option to add chicken or seafood.

Salata’s Signature Dressings, Soups and Sauces are

January 2014 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

made in house and are Gluten Free. We cater and deliver for any occasion including business meetings or training sessions. In a hurry? Go to Salata.com and we’ll have your order prepared and ready to go. We are conveniently located across from the Marriott and in the corridor of the Coca-Cola/ Minute Maid building. For catering service contact Vilma (cell) 832-279-5323, Fax: 832-886-4591, Email: Sugarland@salata.com.

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

For more information visit www.golfquailvalley. com Quail Valley Golf Course 2880 La Quinta Dr. is located at Missouri City, TX 77459.

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.

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

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

12 MONTHS LISTING FOR ONLY $300

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

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

Golf Carts / Mobility Scooters CBC Golf Cart Services, Inc. 281-494-1164 Scooters by CBC 281-494-3454 Fax 281-494-1189 www.cbcgolfcarts.com; www.mobilityscooters.com chris1001@windstream.net, 203 Ulrich Street, Sugar Land, TX 77498 (Behind Imperial Sugar). CBC offers Sales, Service, New & Used, Rentals (daily, monthly or yearly) and Parts for two lines of products, GOLF CARTS and MOBILITY SCOOTERS. Authorized Dealer for Merits and Pride Mobility products. We rent all sizes of golf carts from 2-8 seaters and also shortand long-cargo boxes.

Glass Block/Showers/Windows South Texas Glass Block 281-355-8882 www. stglassblock.com We offer complete glass block solutions, providing excellent service and product to all of our customers. We have been in business since 1995, serving the entire Houston and surrounding areas. Our excellent workmanship is unmatched both in the commercial and residential arena.

No job is too big for South Texas Glass Block.

Home Health Care Texas State Healthcare & Hospice Care 281-208-4344 or 979-323-7099 www.txstatehealthcare.com What we do: Skilled Nursing - Home Health Aide Physical/Speech/Occupational Therapies - Medical Social Worker assisting with durable medical equipment needs and helping to provide Resources & Services in the Community - Wound Care - Catheter Care - Diabetic Care Lab Services - IV Therapy and more... “Hometown Nurses Helping Hometown People”

Home Inspection Services Armadillo Home Inspection Services 281-342-9955 Stan Snyder Licensed Professional Inspector TREC # 5285 inspectorstan@sbcgloal.net “A Home Inspection Saves You $$$!”

Ice Cream Specialties Southern Ice Cream 281-499-9837 www.SouthernIceCreamTX.com Great for all occasions! Reward your employees, clients or families. Serve delicious ice cream specialties from Southern Ice Cream in Stafford, Texas. Do you have a special fundraising project or marketing project on your mind? Schedule a push cart, ice cream truck or vintage ‘Original Good Humor’ truck to deliver these speciality deserts.

Southern Ice Cream prides itself on personalized service delivering frozen treats efficiently to cool down even the hottest Houston days! It’s easy to book this unique and rewarding ice cream experience, just visit www.SouthernIceCreamTX. com or call Michelle at 281-499-9837.

Insurance Agencies Prince Benefits Group 281-325-0384 www.princebenefitsgroup.com Insurance Agency, that works with individuals & companies to purchase health, dental, vision, life & 401K. We represent Aetna, BCBS, United Healthcare, Guardian, Humana, Principal and many others. Don’t pay a 2014 TAX Penalty for being uninsured due to the new Healthcare Reform laws. Call us for affordable credible coverage.

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.

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

Live Music musicSource, Inc. 281-242-3049 281-204-7716 - Cell ramusica@windstream.net Set the mood with LIVE MUSIC at your next event.

Vince Ramos and The Continental Combo will provide music for your Gala Event or a casual Oldies Party.

One Man Band to 8 pc. MusicSource, Inc. will provide Acoustic Music and any genre including Rock-n-Roll, C&W, Jazz, Dixieland and Holiday Music. European and Hispanic International Theme Music? Luau, Pool Party, Margarita Party.......etc. Let’s have Fun. Give us a call.

Outdoor events? No problem, we have portable power.

Call or e-mail Vince Ramos 281-242-3049 ramusica@ wndstream.net.

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

SERVICE DIRECTORY

Foundations / Sprinklers

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

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

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.

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H January 2014

continued, on page 46

45

Open MRI

Real Estate / Residential

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.

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

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

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

SERVICE DIRECTORY

Physicians

46

Immunizations & Drug Testing IMU Southwest, The IMUnization Clinic 281-313-7468 www.houstonvaccines.com houstonvaccines@gmail.com. 3727 Greenbriar Dr., Suite 403, Stafford, TX 77477- Vaccines for children and adults for school, fertility, work, immigration, or travel needs. Daytime, Evening, and Saturday hours and no wait appointments available. Vaccine titers and Drug Testing for individuals or corporations. Certified Drug Testing Center & CDC Designated Yellow Fever Provider.

We perform oral HIV testing also. Mobile onsite clinics available for churches and corporations. We are now in network with Blue Cross & Blue Shield.

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.

Angie Snyder 281-787-8718 Office: 281-265-5533 X 1282

Hall of Fame, ABR, BROR, GRI, SRES RE/MAX Fine Properties.

Angie@HoustonHomeSales.net Celebrating 20 years in Real Estate Home Staging Specialists!

Colliers International, formerly Curtice Commercial Real Estate 281-494-4769 kcurtice@curticecommercial.com. Kolbe M. Curtice, CCIM, CLS, 15999 City Walk, Suite 250, Sugar Land Square located at U.S. Highway 59 & State Highway 6, Fax: 281-494-3227, Brokerage, Development, Investment and Tenant Representation, 25 years experience in Fort Bend.

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

Jeanne Gregory, CRS, GRI 281-344-8918 www.jeannegregory.com jeannegregory@earthlink.net.

14905 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, Texas 77478, Fax: 281-242-6754, Re/Max Southwest.

Residential real estate sales & corporate relocation.

Jennifer Weaver, ABR, CRS, GRI 281-207-5037 www.jenniferweaver.com RE/MAX Southwest, 14905 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, Texas 77478. Residential sales and corporate relocation since 1979.

Remodeling / Outdoor Living Living Improvements - 281-499-7000 www.living-improvements.com AWARD WINNING - 2010 & 2011 Houston’s BEST “Outdoor Living Space” Living Improvements’ commitment to excellence makes us the perfect fit for your building needs. We have over 200 years cumulative in-house experience in the remodeling and construction industry making us highly skilled, professional and detail oriented striving to exceed our customer’s expectations. We feature outdoor living spaces, custom homes, interior and exterior renovations. Our commitment to excellence is just one of the reasons we have over 5,000 satisfied customers.

SERVING FORT BEND & SURROUNDING COUNTIES FOR OVER 35 YEARS.

January 2014 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

Tree Removal / Stump Grinding / Professional Pruning and Tree Feeding R. H. Tree Service - 832-277-6947 Tree removal, stump grinding, pruning and tree feeding are procedure specific and the result can be cost prohibitive when hiring a service that does only “surface” work and lacks proper expertise. With 20 years of experience, you can count on our consistent, reputable and professional crew. We are both insured and have excellent references. We handle all commercial and residential tree services, tree removal (no matter its height), proper procedural stump grinding, professional tree pruning and we have the experience and knowledge how to feed your trees that are undernourished or at a distressed level. Call the professional crew that you can count on! No job is too big or too small.

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

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

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.

Bombay Palace Do you want to savor some of the best Indian food in all of Fort Bend, surrounded by elegant furnishings, a Bombay majestic mahogany full-service bar and soothing Palace background music? You can also book your very own private wine room that seats up to 14. Bombay Palace offers fine dining at affordable prices. Savor two of their finest dishes: Rack of Lamb that is skillfully marinated with ginger, garlic and our secret spices or the fabulous Chilean Sea Bass that is topped with a garlic spinach. Both dishes are served for under $20. Bombay Palace is open seven days a week for lunch: M-F – 11:00-2:00 and on Saturday-Sunday – 11:30-3:00; and then again for dinner every day from 5:30-10:00. On Saturday and Sunday, come in and enjoy either the delicious Tawa Special or Chat Corner. We cater for any sized party! Book your holiday party now. We promise you won’t be disappointed! 15295 SW Freeway, Sugar Land, 281.325.0071, www.bombaypalacesugarland.com. $$ • FB Cafe India Come enjoy the best Indian food in Fort Bend County! Sultan Momin is not only the friendly owner but also one of the experienced chefs in this quiet, very clean family-owned restaurant. Cafe India offers an excellent, fresh lunch buffet selection from 11:00-2:45 every day (except closed on Tuesday). From Monday-Thursday, come in and have an a-la-carte dinner and then enjoy a free dessert! Cafe India has not only received excellent reviews but is affordable and specializes in catering for any event. There is no better Tandoori Chicken, flavorable vegetable samosas, lamb dishes or biryani in town!

Cafe India offers an excellent meal selection for two or four people. Cafe India is also open for dinner Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 5:009:30 p.m., and then on Friday and Saturday from 5:00-10:00 p.m. Affordable, fresh, authentic Indian food while also offering wine and beer in a relaxed atmosphere. Cafe India is located at 2319 Williams Trace, Sugar Land, TX 77478.

Call 281-565-5881 or visit www.cafe-india-restaurant.com. $ • WB

satisfies those with ‘Small Bites’ to those with a Larger Appetite. As we like to say; “Southern Fried with a French Twist” – Frédéric Perrier (chef)! Hours Monday-Thursday 11:00am – 8:30pm, Friday 11:00am – 9:00pm, Saturday 10:30am – 9:00pm, Sunday 10:30am – 8:00pm. Saturday and Sunday Brunch 10:30 – 2:00pm. We now have Shakes, Smoothies, and Frozen Lemonades.

8817 Highway 6, Suite 900, Missouri City, Texas 77459. 281-778-4644. Visit us online at www.hoggsnchicks.com/. $$

continued, on page 48

Sultan Momin, Owner and Lead Chef

Cafe India

281.565.5881

2319 Williams Trace • Sugar Land www.cafe-india-restaurant.com

LUNCH

From 11:00-2:45 p.m.

Closed Tuesdays

Tandoori Chicken

DINNER

Hoggs n’ Chicks At Hoggs & Chicks, we have a casual atmosphere for everyone’s dining pleasure. We serve a delicious and original French/Southern influenced cuisine that

Mon, Wed,Thurs & Sun from 5:00-9:30 p.m.

Friday and Saturday from 5:00-10:00 p.m

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H January 2014

47

FOOD, DRINK, ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE 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 QQ China Cafe QQ China Cafe, a family owned Restaurant, has been serving a variety of oriental cuisines for over 3 years, Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin, and Mongolian. Only 100% vegetable oil is used and you will never find MSG. Located between Sienna Pkwy. and Fort Bend Pkwy. on Highway 6 in Missouri City., QQ China Cafe is open 7 days a week. Visit for a quiet, quaint, enjoyable lunch or dinner and take out is always available. Sunday Thursday, 11AM - 10 PM, Friday and Saturday 11Am - 10:30PM, 10330

Guadalupe

RIVERFRONT DUPLEX Each duplex can accommodate four adults and four children or rent both for groups.

More pictures at

RioRatonDuplex.com book at

48

832-788-2294

Hwy. 6 #G Missouri City, TX . 77459. Call 281-431-7777 or 281-4317773. www.QQchina.webs.com $ Veritas Steak & Seafood The Rios family invites you to come and experience a superb quality cuisine and impeccable service combined with an elegant and warm ambiance at Veritas Steak & Seafood. Join them for a wonderful culinary adventure featuring USDA certified prime beef, chops, fresh seafood, soups, sandwiches, salads and an outstanding wine selection.

They are open for both lunch and dinner Monday – Thursday 11:00 – 10:00 pm, Friday 11:00 – 11:00 pm, Saturday 4:00 – 11:00 pm, and closed on Sunday. Partake in their happy hour specials from 4:00 – 7:00 pm Monday – Saturday. 1550 Lake Pointe Parkway, Suite 500, Sugar Land • Call 281491-2901. www.VeritasSteakandSeafood.com. $$ • FB Tradicao Brazilian Steakhouse Tradicao Brazilian Steakhouse is the premier steakhouse in Fort Bend. Tradicao, pronounced Tra-dee-son, was named after the Brazilian word for “tradition” and founded on the idea to continue this traditional way of grilling. They are a family owned and operated churracaria whose goal is to make sure your dining experience is one you will never forget. Their prixe fixe menu includes 14 cuts of perfectly grilled meats brought to your table side, a large salad bar and hot sides.

Private dining and catering is available. Tradico would like to invite you to come join them, sit back and relax. Lunch Mon-Fri 11am-2pm and Sun 123pm. Dinner Mon-Thurs 5-9:30pm, Fri 5-10pm, Sat 4-10pm, Sun 5-9pm.

Phone: 281-277-9292. 12000 Southest Freeway, Meadows Place, TX, 77477, www.TradicaoSteakhouse.com. $S • FB Salata Salata is a fresh and unique way to eat healthy and create your own freshly prepared hand tossed salad or salad wrap. Offering over 50 toppings of fruits and vegetables with the option to add chicken or seafood. Salata’s Signature Dressings, Soups and Sauces are made in house and are Gluten Free. We cater and deliver for any occasion including business meetings or training sessions. In a hurry? Go to Salata.com and we’ll have your order prepared and ready to go. We are conveniently located across from the Marriott and in the corridor of the Coca-Cola/ Minute Maid building. We are attached to Lone Star parking garage with FREE parking. For catering service contact Vilma (cell) 832279-5323, Fax: 832-886-4591, Email: Sugarland@salata.com. $

January 2014 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

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