March 2011 - The Business Lifestyle Magazine Digital Edition

Fort Bend/Katy

Volume 29 • No. 3

THE BUSINESS LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

MARCH 2011

“Dentistry for the entire family” provided by the Fort Bend Dental Associates since 1987 INSIDE STORIES

n Fort Bend Banking & Finance n Newsworthy / Names in the News n Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter n Real Estate Cycle Opportunities Take Advantage of Them! $4.95

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SAVE LIVES WITH THE TEXAS DIRECT AUTO

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Texas Direct Auto, the nation’s largest independent car dealership, is asking area citizens to donate blood Monday, April 11th, between 12 noon and 6 p.m., at their location in Stafford, Texas. The Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center mobile unit will be at their dealership, 12053 Southwest Freeway, at West Airport.

“We hope local citizens will donate blood and help save lives in our community,” said Jessica DeMarr, Director of Business Development for Texas Direct Auto “One donation may save three lives, such as trauma victims, surgery patients, premature babies and those with anemia and cancer.”

Potential blood donors to the Texas Direct Auto Blood Drive may register at www.giveblood.org, using sponsor code B584, said DeMarr, who is spearheading the blood drive.

More than 900 blood donations are needed every day for patients in the Texas Gulf Coast region - from accident victims to cancer patients to premature babies. According to The Blood Center, one pint of blood is needed every 1.3 seconds. Blood usage continues to increase each year, while

the eligible donor base continues to decrease because of the travel restrictions imposed by the FDA. Texas Direct Auto will provide fun for all. Local radio stations will be broadcasting the event.

There will also be lots of prizes and complimentary gifts given out during the day including ‘give a pint and get some pizza’ for those who donate or attempt to donate blood. DeMarr says ”We are expecting a large turn out from our community to help save a life and have a great time.”

Blood donors for the Texas Direct Auto Blood Drive must be 17 or older (16 with parental consent), weigh a minimum of 110 pounds (122 lbs. for age 16), in general good health without cold or flu symptoms and show a valid photo ID prior to the donation. Donors that have (partial list) a history of hepatitis (after age 11); HIV; chronic kidney disease, coronary heart disease; internal cancer requiring surgery; or uncontrolled diabetes are permanently deferred.

For further information, call 832-310-2088 or go to the web at www.texasdirectauto.com.

SELL US YOUR CAR With over $500+ Million in annual sales, Texas Direct Auto is the Largest Independent dealership in the nation and is the largest eBay Motor’s dealership in the world!

Visit us online or come to Stafford just southwest of Houston to see our huge lot and massive inventory that are sure to have exactly what you are looking for in your next car.

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

CONTENTS

Fort Bend/Katy

Cover Story “Dentistry for the entire family” provided by Fort Bend Dental Associates

Special Feature

Volume 29 • Number 3 • March 2011 For subscriptions send check for $25 to Fort Bend Business Journal

pg.

20

Fort Bend Banking & Finance.............................................. 7

Inside Stories National Fusion Soccer Club Names Sponsor...........................................................................14 As Katy EDC Future Looks Bright.................................................................................................15 Data from 2010 Census Arrives.................................................................................................18 FORTUNE Names Methodist System “100 Best Companies to Work for”....................19 Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Expands Cancer Services...............................................32 Richard Smith Joins Windstream Team...................................................................................37 Local Communicators at the Helm of Greater Houston PRSA...............................................40 Dutch-American Ties Brings 100,000 Jobs in Texas............................................................44 Catholic Charities Celebrates Grand Opening in Richmond..............................................53 Ben E. Keith Foods sets Groundbreaking...................................................................................54 EPC Inc. Opens Warehouse and Processing Facility in Stafford......................................56 Katy Chamber Present 2010 Awards at Annual Gala..........................................................58

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

PUBLISHER.................................... Beverly Carter GENERAL MANAGER............Michael Fredrickson EDITOR ...........................................Sharon Wallingford ADVERTISING DIRECTOR .............. Barbara McNeil MARKETING CONSULTANTS................ Dottie Childs Diane Strehl Ann Sturrock RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST.........................................Becky Hall COLUMNISTS...............................Alan Sandersen Tim Stubenrouch CONTRIBUTORS . .......................Wayne Chandler Kelly Ferguson Elsa Maxey John Whitmore ART DIRECTOR.................................Joey Belleza GRAPHIC DESIGNER / WEB.............Carlo Arcillas

Monthly Column Kolbe Curtice CCIM, CLS Commercial Real Estate Discusses

Real Estate Cycle Opportunities –Take Advantage of Them!.................. 39

Monthly Departments ON THE COVER Names in the News................................................................................................. 24 Data Beat...........................................................................................................26-29 Newsworthy.......................................................................................................30-31 Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter...................................................45-52 Service Directory...............................................................................................60-61 Dining and Entertainment.................................................................................62-64

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Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

Fort Bend Dental Associates Dwight D. Peccora, D.D.S. • James D. Condrey, D.D.S. Randal M. Glenn, D.D.S. • Brian K. Machart, D.D.S. Photo by Fort Bend Star

©2011 Fort Bend Business Journal Magazine No material from this publication be copied or in any way reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

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Editor’s Preview March is an active verb

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

T

he month of March is full of opportunities for Fort Bend county. Besides the moist, warmer winds, it brings Women’s History Month, National Nutrition Month, Save Your Vision Week, Texas Independence Day, and Read Across America Day to our

attention. There’s more: Girl Scout Week (remember to buy cookies!), International Women’s Day (celebrate our diversity), Mardi Gras (try the recipes), Ash Wednesday (the first day of Lent) , Saint Patrick’s Day (remember to wear green), Cesar Chavez Day (a state holiday in 8 US states), and Maha Shivaratri (fasting and applying stripes of ash to the forehead). Daylight Savings Time

Jacqueline Baly Chaumette President and CEO Baly Projects, LLC

begins on March 13 and the first day of Spring occurs March 20. We have no choice but to be active.

Our chambers of commerce are busy at the task of producing and uniting leadership in our communities. Congratulations to all of the persons and businesses that were recently honored

Louis Garvin President Emeritus Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce

for all their endeavors in 2010. Their time and energy has sustained this county’s lifeblood to reach the goals its obtained. I want to bring particular attention to the Public-Private Community Service Award County Judge Bob Hebert bestowed on retiree Stanley Kucherka, the county’s first director of the drainage district, whose contributions can still be found today at the base of the

Dee Koch Grant Officer The George Foundation

county’s continued excellence and quality of growth.

Economic development has many roles. At least three films have been produced in Fort Bend county recently. The movie “Apart” filmed in Richmond and Rosenberg is having its premiere in Austin on March 12 and 17. A horror flick brought additional revenue to Rosenberg last month

Becky Munnell President and CEO Blue Jungle Marketing

and a community flavored movie “Katy Nation” is completing its casting and is expected to begin shooting this month.

The statewide 2009 Transportation Enhancement Program awarding of stimulus funds to

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

projects in Missouri City, Sugar Land and the Richmond-Rosenberg areas are moving forward.

These are bringing millions of dollars to our communities through TxDOT, the county, the West Fort Bend Management District, and local cities. The awarding took place in Austin on July 29, 2010 and representatives in the Houston Regional office have been meeting with the awardees.

Tim Stubenrouch President First Community Bank

The three Y’s in the county - Katy, T.W. Davis, and Fort Bend - have begun their annual Partner’s campaigns. Businesses have contributed generously in years past, just ask some of the many recipients. To meet the growth needs of the county each Y has extended and expanded their common areas of service.

John Whitmore Whitmore Company

We couldn’t live, work and play in a better place. In this issue is the latest census information, the latest in healthcare, the news of the latest businesses finding us, and the great people who are making our lives better every day of the year.

Happy March!

Contact: Sharon K. Wallingford skwcountry@aol.com Barbara McNeil barbara@fortbendstar.com

4

Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

Keep those cash registers ringing, Sharon K. Wallingford

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March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

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Large and small businesses get full support in Katy’s newest business center Titan Business Suite offers short-notice office leases and day offices, meeting rooms and all virtual office services

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itan Business Suites celebrated their grand opening in February and showcased what they could provide to micro, small and traditional businesses in need of short term

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work space solutions, full time phone and mail reception and unique business services.

Established larger companies in need of extra work space, business continuity workspace, and full service office solutions are invited to tour Titan Business Suites’ offices and meeting rooms. Fully wired with Wi-Fi Internet throughout, Titan offers the Katy area’s most state-of-the-art business-class Internet hookup, plug-in ready telephone and voice mail system, as well as Video Tele-Conferencing services.

Small Businesses and Home Based Businesses throughout West Houston can take advantage of ultra-short term office rentals, meeting rooms, mail forwarding and voice-call reception as well as the full range of business services that normally command much longer leases in office buildings.

The new property is managed by Titan Management, a Houston-based real estate investment, management and development firm. Titan Business Suites is intended to meet local demand for short term office services, business continuity plans and special

Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

event hosting, as well as for simple affordable workspace and virtual office solutions like telephone reception and mail forwarding.

Extra-heavy work days or special events can now be hosted in comfort in a full-service professional space, and Titan Business Suites reports several tenants have already signed rental agreements.

Reflective of a trend toward increasing home offices and smaller more “core competency” focused enterprises, the businesses taking up short and mid-term residency at Titan Business Suites have outsourced all but the essentials, including property and facilities management. Titan offers all the core services on a pay-as-you go basis eliminating the high overhead cost of traditional office space.

Located in the heart of Cinco Ranch in Katy, it serves the business community in the West Houston, Katy and Richmond areas.

With easy access to the Grand Parkway, Interstate 10 and West Park Tollway, Titan Business Suites Business Center is next to the La Centerra Commercial Complex on Cinco Ranch Boulevard.

Fort Bend/Katy

S P E C I A L F E AT U R E

Fort Bend Banking & Finance

In Fort Bend, banking didn’t just happen Fort Bend Banking and Finance

Creative people and opportunities made it happen! event. George H.W. Bush, the nation’s vice president was the featured speaker.

When Sugar Creek National won the bidding for the top steer at the Fort Bend County Fair, it was easy to invite the neighborhood over for a barbecue. The Texas Department of Transportation was astonished when the bank asked to borrow a bridge that spanned the Brazos.

The business plan behind this party was to open the doors for Richmond and Rosenberg business. The “Bridge Party” was by any definition a rousing success which included columnist Leon Hale.

Bank officers could make a decision while the customer was at his desk. The officers were aggressive in getting new business. Sour loans, those loans that could

By John Whitmore & Sharon Wallingford

T

he number of store front branch banks in Fort Bend County today is rather interesting. To start down memory lane is to look at some of the spectacular events in Fort Bend’s history.

In 1986, traffic on U.S. 59 slowed to a creep, while thousands of people watched hundreds of volunteers raise a giant flag that would conceal the entire front of an 11 story bank building. The flag honored the 150th anniversary of the victory at San Jacinto that announced Texas as an independent Republic. Sugar Land adopted this celebration as its Sesquicentennial

or would not be paid were nonexistent.

About the time Texas was just a gleam in the eyes of a few, banks were not allowed by the government of Mexico. Only a year before the Battle of San Jacinto in 1836, the Legislature of Coahuila and Texas chartered the first bank west of the Mississippi.

One of the principals of the bank was one Samuel May Williams who earlier was associated with Stephen F. Austin.

For his services he was given large land grants in what is now Sugar Land. He turned this land over to his brothers so he could go to Galveston and set up highly profitable business ventures.

Williams and his bank helped arrange loans for the Texas Revolution and for funding the new republic.

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Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

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The state Constitution of 1845 prohibited the incorporation of banks and the issuance of paper money. The bank’s role was filled by un-regulated moneylenders. In 1859 there were some 3,000 of these moneylenders in most of the towns and villages of Texas. The Commerce and Agricultural Bank opened in 1847 as the only chartered bank in Texas before the Civil War. Both the Republic and the State of Texas chose to recognize the charter given to the Galveston bank.

The first nationally chartered bank in Texas was the First National Bank of Galveston in 1865 after the end of the Civil War. Remember, at that time Galveston was the financial and business center of Texas. By 1890 there were 189 chartered banks in Texas and by 1905 there were 440 banks scattered all over the state.

Driven by the need to provide banking services to the vast agricultural industry of Texas, the number of banks grew. The number of state chartered banks increased from 515 in 1910 to 1,035 by 1920, plus about 500 nationally chartered banks.

This meant in virtually every Texas town there was a bank or two. Generally

these banks were distinctive solidly built structures in the middle of the town or on the courthouse square.

In Richmond there was First National Bank of Richmond and Fort Bend National. In near-by Rosenberg there was Rosenberg State Bank and First National of Rosenberg. In 1933, G.A. Kunkel’s Needville State Bank opened for business.

One of the first moves made by the new owners of the Cunningham and Ellis plantations was the creation of Imperial Bank & Trust Co. in 1908 to serve the sugar company and its soon-to-be company town, Sugar Land. The name of this bank changed to Imperial State Bank and in 1955 to Sugar Land State Bank by the early 1970s great changes came that impacted Fort Bend banking. This was master planned communities discovering Fort Bend County. Quail Valley in Missouri City and Sugar Creek in Sugar Land attracted professionals and upper corporate managers to enjoy a new lifestyle.

Fort Bend County was shifting from being a laid back agricultural community to a modern high end urban mass of rooftops on houses.

These new citizens expected metropolitan banking services and did not want to just have their bank in “the city.” Local bankers were aggressive in providing “up town” services.

The major metropolitan banks introduced a new concept to serve these new potential customers while coping with Texas’ prohibition of branch banking—the so-called “group banking systems.” This was a way a major bank in downtown Houston, Texas Commerce Bank for example, could help in the creation of a new bank. Under the law, no other bank at that time, could own more than 24.9 per cent of another bank.

An interesting statistic was that by 1985, some 130 of these systems controlled almost half of the more than 1,800 separately incorporated banks and held nearly threequarters of the bank deposits in Texas.

One of these banks was the First National Bank of Stafford, created by the developers of Sugar Creek, with Texas Commerce as a minority partner. Just for historic interest, the first bank facility continued on page 10

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of the Stafford bank is now Stafford City Hall. With its heavy round bank vault intact, it probably is one of the safest municipal tax offices in the state. The bank moved from the “Island” in Stafford to a new multi storied bank building at Murphy Road and U.S. 59.

Missouri City got its name into the banking ledger with the creation of First National Bank of Missouri City in 1982. Its founders included Fred Beeler, a banker, Joe Clyde Wesendorf, a Richmond investor, and Jot Hodges, an attorney. Stewart Morris, a partner in the development of Sugar Creek and a founder of Stafford National Bank, started his own new bank---Southern National Bank---on land he owned just south of Sugar Creek National. The bank also sponsored the creation of the Museum of Southern History. For Fort Bend, and the rest of Texas for that matter, banking took a new course in history in 1987. Earlier, the Texas Legislature passed an interstate baking law permitting limited branch banking.

This action kicked off a round of bank roll-ups. The affiliated banks, those with a 24.9 per cent big bank ownership, were brought in to the big bank umbrella. For example, Stafford National Bank became Texas Commerce Bank. Relaxing the law on branch banking, the new regulations allowed non-Texas based banks to enter into play.

Along with this new banking freedom came some horrible failures.

Overextension of bank credit and loose lending to energy and energy related industries and to commercial real estate customers resulted in collapse. These lending practices by the major statewide multi-bank holding companies and a decline in world oil prices led to a near collapse of the banking industry. Seven of the 10 largest commercial

Sugar Creek National Bank celebrating the Texas Sesquicentennial of the 150th anniversary of Texas Independence Day.

banks and holding companies failed between 1987 and 1990.

Only Texas Commerce Bancshares and Allied Bancshares survived as free standing banking institutions---for a while at least. The rest were absorbed by out-of-state interests and recapitalized with help from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp.

Incidentally, of the surviving holding companies, Texas Commerce merged with Chemical Banking Corp. of New York and Allied Bancshares merged with First Interstate Bancorp of Los Angeles.

The new look also spawned a new rash of retail banking in Fort Bend, and for that matter in all of Texas. This created a new cottage industry, thinking up new names for new banks.

What will tomorrow bring? Well, wait until tomorrow and see. Let’s bet our banks continue to serve and prosper.

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Fort Bend Banking and Finance

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13811 Murphy 11390 Veterans Memorial Road Houston (FM 1092) Stafford Texas 77477 281.208.2111

Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

Texas 77067 281.537.7200

1515 FM 1960 Bypass East Humble Texas 77338 281.540.1414

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Other Locations “Coming Soon”

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Now is the time to contribute to your tax-deferred savings account Account Type

Max Salary Deferral

Additional Deferral if Over 50

Maximum Total Deferral

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

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$5,500

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SIMPLE IRA

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$2,500

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Traditional and Roth IRA

$5,000

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tion rates will remain unchanged for this year. Below are the contribution limits for 2011: Recent tax legislation extended the Bush tax cuts through 2012. This means that capital gains and qualified dividends rates will remain at 0% or 15%, depending on your tax bracket.

Also, as part of the law changes, 401k balances can now be rolled directly into Roth 401ks. These accounts require

you to make after tax salary deferrals, but withdrawals are tax free. Your age, tax bracket, and expectation for future tax rates should all be considered when deciding whether to make traditional or Roth contributions to your 401.

WJ Interests is a fee only financial planning and investment management firm in Sugar Land. For more information, please contact us at wj@wjinterests.com or 281634-9400. H

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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 401k, 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 tax-deferred contribution in 2011 is dependent on many factors; an experienced and qualified financial advisor can help you determine your eligibility and maximum contribution amounts.

Each year, the IRS updates (and generally increases) contribution limits. Since prices remained flat in 2010, contribu-

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8/5/08 6:51:43 PM March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Fort Bend Banking and Finance

Founders Bank and Vista Bank Texas merge

V

ista Bank Texas (“Vista”) and Founders Bank (“Founders”), jointly announced the signing of a definitive merger agreement which has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both banks in February. Under the terms of the merger agreement, Founders will merge into Vista, with depositors of Founders becoming depositors of Vista. Upon completion of the merger, shareholders of Founders will receive shares of common stock of VB Texas, Inc. (Vista’s parent company) and three Founders directors will join the board of directors of each of VB Texas and Vista. The merger agreement and the related merger transaction are subject to customary regulatory approvals and the approval of Founders’ shareholders.

“We are excited about the prospects of

community banking in Greater Houston.

We believe that combining two wellpositioned community banks in the market will provide our customers, shareholders and employees with additional strength and growth opportunities. Vista does not currently have a presence in Sugar Land and Founders has gained an outstanding reputation in the Fort Bend community, which we believe gives the combined bank strength to continue to gain market share in the future,” said Robert R. Franklin, Jr., Chairman and CEO of Vista Bank Texas.

Jim Sturgeon, Founders President and CEO, who will become Vice Chairman of VB Texas and Vista upon the completion of the transaction said, “Our board of directors chose to become part of Vista because of the shared values and vision of both of our organizations. We recognized

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Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

that to continue to meet our customer and shareholder expectations would require more branches and a greater array of products, both of which this merger provides. We value Robert R. Franklin relationship banking and are proud of the fact that both of our institutions are dedicated to providing the best banking experience.”

Vista’s Franklin noted, “With the dramatic changes occurring in the Jim Sturgeon banking industry, we think this merger is an excellent opportunity for both banks. Additionally, with increasing regulatory requirements including higher capital levels, we believe more growthoriented combinations like this will take place in the near future. The addition of Founders is both accretive and strategic to Vista and we will continue to look for strategic acquisitions in the future, along with the possibility of additional de novo branch offices as opportunities arise.”

The combined bank will have 7 branches that extend from FM 1960 in the north to Wharton, Texas in the south.

Vista Bank Texas is a Houston based community bank with 6 locations. The bank traces it lineage back to 1971 and entered the Houston market when the current Houston management team and shareholders purchased Commercial State Bank of Boling, Texas. Vista is highly experienced in working with both personal, professional and commercial clients to develop financial packages and services best suited to meet their needs.

Founders Bank is a three year old Fort Bend owned and managed bank, with the goal of being “the best bank ever.”

The bank takes its name from a “founders group” of Fort Bend business people and community leaders who served as the driving force behind the institution’s organization. Founders Bank is focused on serving the local community.

Terry Crockett joins NewFirst National Bank

T

om Shirley, Fort Bend President of NewFirst National Bank, is pleased to announce Terry Crockett has joined the NewFirst team as Vice President of Commercial Lending in the Fort Bend market. Terry brings with him over 20 years of unmatched banking experience and community leadership.

“Terry’s knowledge of commercial and consumer real estate transactions makes him an invaluable asset to NewFirst in the Fort Bend Market. He will office at our Rosenberg Banking Center located at 2214 Ave H which lies in the heart of Fort Bend County.”, said Shirley.

Crockett received his Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting

from the University of Houston and his Bachelor of Science in Education from Oklahoma Christian University. He is also a Certified Public Accountant in the State of Texas. Terry remains involved in many local professional and civic organizations while living in Fort Bend County for over 27 years.

Locally owned and operated since 1902, NewFirst has provided its clients the strength and stability that has earned their respect and trust. With eight area locations, NewFirst is a leading community bank with a wide range of products and services. Contact Terry at 832-3442036 or email tcrockett@newfirst.com to see how he and NewFirst can assist you with all of your financial needs.

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March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

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Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital named official sponsor of National Fusion Soccer Club

N

ational Fusion Soccer Club is proud to announce Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital as its official sponsor. The hospital will support National Fusion Soccer Club with its expertise in sports medical treatment, performance training and education.

With the partnership, players and their families receive expedited access to the Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Emergency Center, rehabilitation services at Memorial Hermann Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation and preferential scheduling with Memorial Hermann Sugar Land-affiliated physicians. Additionally, athletic training services will be made available at club events, with off-site injury clinics to be mutually agreed upon by both parties. Competitive players will also have the option to utilize the ImPACT concussion testing offered by Memorial Hermann Sports Medicine.

“With this new sponsorship, we can help players recover from injuries and give them more opportunities to excel in their sport,” said Jim Brown, CEO of Memorial Hermann Photo by Larry Pullen

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Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital CEO Jim Brown, front right, knocks knuckles with a Fusion soccer player to celebrate the new partnership between Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital and National Fusion Soccer Club. Joining the celebration from back left are Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital Sports Medicine Coordinator Steven Ramirez, other Fusion players and National Fusion Soccer Club President Keith Weber.

Sugar Land. “The sponsorship underscores our commitment to providing quality care to those in our community.”

National Fusion Soccer Club is a premier youth competitive soccer club servicing the Houston, West Houston, Katy, Richmond, and Sugar Land areas. The club provides trainer-led teams that play at the highest levels of youth play, as well as recreational options for players who want to develop their soccer skills. The Club emphasizes development of soccer players and positive citizens of the community with a focus on providing a safe, enjoyable soccer development program. Practice facilities are located in New Territory and George Bush Park.

“We are excited that Memorial Hermann Sugar Land will enhance our mission to offer a safe and enjoyable competitive soccer program that develops players both on the field and in the communities,” said Keith Weber, president of National Fusion Soccer Club.

The partnership with Memorial Hermann Sugar Land will provide the club with the quality resources necessary to help players reach their full potential.

As Katy EDC looks back, the future looks bright

By Wayne Chandler

“W

hile we ( the nation) are still in a downturn, it’s hard to tell in Katy,” said Katy Area Economic Development Council President and CEO Lance LaCour in his review of Katy business for 2010.

LaCour noted the EDC is at its “highest level of membership.”

At 150 members and employment in the Katy area reached 150,000 in 2010 (8,850 jobs last year), up from 100,000, in2006. “Our projection for 2018 is 220,000,” he adds.

Some $1.05 billion in new capital was announced in 2010 involving 2 million square feet of industrial space and 1.2 million square feet of office space.

The CEO paid tribute to the EDC’s 2010 administrative staff and the working committees: executive, nominating , membership, talent , place, and industry, and detailed names and activities during the past year from each group. He commended vice president Frank Lombard for his participation in various committees, projects and negotiations in 2010.

New home sales in 2010 totalled only four more than the previous year: Community................................... 2009.......................2010 Cinco Ranch.......................................892.......................... 817 Firethorne............................................238.......................... 254 Cross Creek.........................................161.......................... 189 Woodcreek Reserve...............................19.............................54 Total................................................. 1,310....................... 1,314 Under significant rankings, LaCour pointed to the Gadberry Group’s rating of the Katy area as Number One in the nation as the 2010 Most Notable Place in America for Growth and Relocate.

In his review of Katy area commercial sections in 2010: LaCenterra , retail space 100% leased, office space 90%, Phase II infrastructure complete; The Reserve at the Grand Parkway, infrastructure and roads complete, 92 acres developed by Vista Companies, St. Lukes Hospital located; Katy Main Street, HEB & Whataburger complete, 85 acres, 500,000 sq. ft Class A office planned: The Park at Katy Mills, retail tenants include Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Ave., Ralph Lauren, Kenneth Cole, Bass Pro Shops; The Reserve at Park Ten, 150,000 sq ft Class A office planned, 17,500 sq ft leased; West Ten Park, Class A business park, 360 acres, infrastructure under construction; Katy Green, 16-acre commercial development, 1,500 frontage; Katy Ranch Crossings, and then Freewaty Properties development announcement is coming soon.

On his industry report, LaCour cited Rooms To Go which opened and hired 350 employees, 50 more than originally anticipated. Also, StratITsphere opened the only Tier IV data center in the Greater Houston area, a $15 million capital investment with 35 jobs in Park Ten. Already in 2011 West Engineering has expanded into Park Ten with 200 jobs, and RTUI has doubled its size with a $3 million investment and 150 jobs.

March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

15

Colorectal Cancer Free Screening & Seminar - March 30

T

he month of March is dedicated to colorectal cancer awareness. Colorectal cancer affects one out of 18 Americans. According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death for both men and women in the United States.

“Because of screening tests, colorectal cancer can be caught early, increasing the survival rate for those diagnosed with the disease,” says Charles Phan, M.D., board certified gastroenterologist on staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

Colorectal cancer refers to cancer of the colon or rectum.

While the exact cause of colorectal cancer is unknown, Dr. Phan cites the following as risk factors that may increase a person’s chance of developing the disease.

Your age. The odds of developing colorectal cancer increase after age 50. Over 90% of people diagnosed with colorectal cancer are age 50 or older.

Family history. Having close relatives (parents, siblings or children) who have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer increases your risk; therefore, earlier and more frequent

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Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

Charles Phan, M.D. and Swarna Balasubramaniam, M.D.

screenings may be recommended by your physician.

Personal history of colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer. A polyp is a growth that develops on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Some polyps may become cancerous. If you’ve been diagnosed with colorectal cancer in the past, the disease may reoccur.

Other risk factors include unhealthy eating, lack of exercise, smoking and bowel disorders such as Crohn’s disease. Although some risk factors, such as your age and family history, cannot be avoided, other factors are within your control. Choosing to follow a healthy lifestyle may help lower your risk of developing colorectal cancer.

“Colorectal cancer usually does not present symptoms in its earliest stages,” shares Swarna Balasubramaniam, M.D., board certified colorectal surgeon on staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. However, as the cancer progresses, Dr. Balasubramaniam says the following symptoms may develop: • Irregular bowel habits, including constipation and diarrhea • A constant feeling that you need to have a bowel movement • Rectal bleeding or bloody stools •Anemia (low blood count; found on lab tests) • Frequent stomach pains or cramps You should consult a physician about being screened for colorectal cancer if you experience any of these symptoms.

If you or a loved one is at risk for developing colorectal cancer or exhibits symptoms of the disease, don’t hesitate to discuss your concerns with a physician. With colorectal cancer, early screenings can translate into saved lives.

Free Seminar & Screening Join us on March 30 for a free Colorectal Cancer Awareness Seminar presented by Dr. Swarna Balasubramaniam and Dr. Charles Phan. Attendees will receive a free colorectal screening kit to take home. The presentation starts at 6:30 p.m. and will be held in Conference Rooms A-D at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

Seating is limited. Reserve your seat by calling 281-274-7500.

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More coming from 2010 census data

Fort Bend County: Fastest growing in Greater Houston area, second in Texas, tenth in Texas TEXAS POPULATION GROWTH 2000-2010

By Elsa Maxey

F

ort Bend County is the second fastest growing county in Texas.

That’s what the data released last week from the U.S. Census Bureau shows for this part of the state.

That’s one notch from the top. During the previous decennial count, Fort Bend ranked third among the fastest growing counties.

Data for 2010 shows that Fort Bend County underwent a 65.1 percent growth rate since then and has an estimated population of 585,375.

“The census data confirms what all of us have known for sometime,” said Fort Bend County Judge Bob Hebert. “Fort Bend County is a dynamic, high growth county with a bright, but challenging future as we anticipate a continuation of our growth pattern through the current decade,” he said.

Fort Bend, a majority-minority county, has a population where Latinos account for 23.7 percent, Anglos are at 36.2 percent, African Americans at 21.1 percent, and Asians account for 17 percent. Judge Hebert has said that this is one of the county’s greatest assets, and he predicts that Fort Bend County could reach one million residents by 2020.

Statewide, Fort Bend County remains the 10th largest county in Texas. It is the fastest growing county in the Greater Houston area.

The first closer look at Texas population data with more to come shows rapid growth over the past decade to have taken place in major urban areas—the Metroplex (Dallas/ Fort Worth areas) as the largest, Houston’s metropolitan 10-county area, Austin and the San Antonio areas in that order . But Fort Bend’s neighbor, Houston, which grew to 2.1 million, up 7.5 percent from 2000 is the largest city in the state. Houston’s 10-county metropolitan area, which includes Fort Bend, is at almost 6 million, that’s 5,946,800 people, according to new census figures.

Texas’ population is now 25,145,561 and it represents a 4,293,741 increase or 20.6 percent increase from the 2000 census.

2000 POPULATION

2010 POPULATION

INCREASE IN POPULATION

% INCREASE POP

SHARE OF INCREASE

10,933,313

11,397,345

464,032

4.2%

10.8%

HISPANIC OR LATINO

6,669,666

9,460,921

2,791,255

41.8%

65.0%

AFRICAN AMERICAN

2,364,255

2,886,825

522,570

22.1%

12.2%

554,445

948,426

393,981

71.1%

9.2%

9,918,507

13,748,216

3,829,709

38.6%

89.2%

20,851,820

25,145,561

4,293,741

20.6%

100.0%

WHITE

ASIAN NON WHITE TOTAL TEXAS TOTAL Source: 2010 U.S. Census

TEXAS’ FIVE LARGEST CITIES HOUSTON SAN ANTONIO DALLAS AUSTIN FORT WORTH

2010 Population

Growth from 2010

2,099,451 1,327,407 1,197,816 790,390 741,206

7.5 % 16 % 0.8 % 20.4 % 38.6 %

Source: 2010 U.S. Census

TOP TEXAS GROWTH RATE COUNTIES: Growth Rate WILLIAMSON CO.

69%

FORT BEND CO.

65%

COLLIN CO.

59%

MONTGOMERY CO.

55%

DENTON CO.

53%

Source: 2010 U.S. Census

The release of the data in February to Texas by the U.S. Census Bureau represents 2010 Census population totals and demographic characteristics that were provided to Governor Rick Perry and the Texas state legislature.

The 2010 Census data will be used to apportion the 435 seats in the House of Representatives among the 50 states. State officials will realign congressional and state legislative districts in their states, taking into account population shifts since the 2000 Census. Also, the redrawing of federal, state and local legislative districts will take place in accordance with public law.

Analysts report that Texas gained four new seats in Washington due to population growth. They said that data released by the Census Bureau also consisted of totals for Texas House districts, which must be

redrawn so they have roughly the same population. Of the 150 Texas House districts, reports indicate that 54 have populations above an ideal size, largely those in the Dallas and Houston suburbs, which could mean that this number is the total to be affected by redistricting.

Following the release of this census data, the Texas Legislative Council will also announce census data broken down at the precinct level which can then be used to proposed district lines.

Texas State Representative Charlie Howard said the 2010 census data shows that Fort Bend County’s tremendous population growth means it will receive additional representation on both the state and federal level. “It is no secret that Fort Bend County is one of the best places to live in Texas,” he said. “This increased population growth presents the possibility of increasing Fort Bend County’s representation from two and a half representatives to three full representatives.”

State Rep. Howard said that as populations continue to shift in Texas, Fort Bend County has been one of the largest beneficiaries of this change and anticipates even more growth in the near future. He said his own district grew from 135,000 to 180,000 residents in the last ten years. “I look forward to working with the House Committee on Redistricting as well as the entire Texas Legislature to shape Texas’ districts in a fair and transparent manner, ensuring every resident of Fort Bend County as well as the entire state an equal voice. ”NOTE: Table for proposed use:

18

Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

A Condo for the Price of a Room

FORTUNE ranks The Methodist Hospital System among “100 Best Companies to Work for” in 2011

F

or the sixth year in a row, The Methodist Hospital System has been ranked among FORTUNE magazine’s 2011 “100 Best Companies to Work For,” remaining the highest ranked health care organization in the country and the only hospital system ranked in Texas.

Methodist is ranked No. 19 and is one of four companies in Greater Houston to receive the prestigious distinction.

FORTUNE listed 13 companies in Texas on its 2011 list.

Among the other U.S. companies listed, Methodist ranked No. 3 for the hiring of minorities, No.4 among the country’s large companies and No. 10 for work-life balance. “This extraordinary honor is a testament to our employees and physicians, whose values and dedication make a difference every day in the lives of our patients and their families,” said Ron Girotto, president and CEO of The Methodist Hospital System. “Truly, our employees and physicians make Methodist a great place to work.”

The full list and related stories appeared in the Feb. 7 issue of FORTUNE, and now at www.fortune.com.

The Methodist Hospital System, which includes a flagship teaching hospital, four community hospitals and a research institute, was awarded the high ranking for providing an exemplary workplace for employees.

Methodist was selected based primarily on a confidential survey sent to randomly selected employees, who were asked questions on the level of trust, pride and camaraderie within their workplace.

Methodist also submitted documentation about its work environment, from benefits to corporate policies to employee demographics. Methodist offers competitive benefits, diversity in the workforce, recognition for employees and a unique environment focused on integrity, compassion, accountability, respect and excellence.

The Methodist Hospital consistently is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of America’s best hospitals, ranked in 13 of 16 adult specialties for 2010-2011, the most in the state.

The Methodist Hospital System, with more than 13,000 employees, comprises The Methodist Hospital in the Texas Medical Center, Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, Methodist Willowbrook Hospital, Methodist West Houston Hospital, San Jacinto Methodist Hospital in Baytown and The Methodist Hospital Research Institute.

Methodist is affiliated with Weill Medical College of Cornell University and New York Presbyterian Hospital.

For more information on Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, visit www.MethodistSugarLand.com or call 281-274-7500 for a physician referral.

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March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

19

COVER STORY Photos courtesy of Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

“Dentistry for the entire family” provided by

Fort Bend Dental Associates since 1987

F

ort Bend Dental Associates (FBDA) has clearly stood the test of time. As one drives down Highway 6, the word “dentist” winks from every other strip center, yet this private practice has held offices in the Capital One Bank Building, across from Missouri City’s Township, for over two decades.

20

Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

Fort Bend/Katy

doctoral graduate from the University of Texas Dental Branch at Houston and also the president of his dental school class, joined the practice as an associate.

FBDA prides themselves on having all of its doctors as active members of the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, the Greater Houston Dental Society, and various national and honorary dental associations. These doctors of general dentistry, all Fort Bend County residents, came together to concentrate their practices on caring for the residents of Fort Bend County.

Over the years, FBDA’s doctors and staff have continuously supported the community with volunteer services along with several organizations such as Give Kids a Smile and Texas Mission of Mercy, to name a few.

In particular, Dr. James Condrey has served as a Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce President and on countless boards including the Fort Bend County Toll Road Authority, Fort Bend County Flood Control and Water Supply Corporation, and the Quail Valley Fund Homeowners’ Association. Dr. Glenn is a Fort Bend County Historical Commissioner and has also been an active part of the new DeWalt Heritage Center (the old Dew Plantation House) that has become East Fort Bend County’s first museum. Early in their careers both Dr. Condrey and Dr. Glenn were Assistant Professors at the University of Texas Dental Branch at Houston—Dr. Condrey in the Fixed Prosthodontic Department and

Dr. Glenn in the Department of Operative Dentistry.

Dr. Machart and his family have become an active part of the Sienna community and he also actively serves on the Board of Sienna Plantation MUD #2. With a recent move from the medical center to the Riverstone community, Dr. Peccora and his wife are excited about having the chance to come back and become an active part of the Sugar Land community that is not only a place where their businesses and extended families reside, but also where they met and grew up.

Although FBDA is proud of the many achievements and experienced doctors that are a part of their team, the silent exclamation point that speaks to their patients is the longevity of their caring and professional staff that have supported the growth and success of this business for over 24 years. Business Administrator Elizabeth Fish, Registered Dental Hygienist Betty May Williams and Registered Dental Assistant Donna Thomas, have all been with the practice individually for over twenty years with a lineup of others on staff ready to celebrate that same milestone.

Patients often comment upon the sense of security they feel with a staff that has been welcoming them back, year in and year out.

Their wealth of years doesn’t preclude the fact that FBDA prides themselves on “making your dental health our business,” continued on page 22

Fort Bend Dental Associates hygienists/ assistants from left to right: Denise Valencia, RDA, Janet Roberts, RDH, Sandra Mazoch, RDA, Betty Williams, RDH, Donna Thomas, RDA and Lori Miller, RDH. (Not pictured Andrea Burdine, RDH and Mischal Hearrean, RDA).

Two doctors, James D. Condrey, DDS, and Tony Singletary, DDS, originally established FBDA in 1987. With early successes in their practice, Dr. Randal Glenn joined the practice just one year later creating one of the largest general dentistry practices in the area at the time. Later in 2001, Dr. Brian Machart became part of the trio and just recently this past year Dr. Dwight Peccora, a more recent

Left to Right Kimmy Franks, Cynthia Ramirez, Beth Fish and Sonia Arredondo.

March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

21

Fort Bend Dental Associates entire staff from the doctors to the hygienists to the assistants to the office staff.

The doctors and staff of Fort Bend Dental Associates are committed to providing the highest quality, personalized, professional dental care that dentistry has to offer in a comfortable, friendly setting. continued from page 21 and therefore keeps abreast of the latest in dental technology from a full paperless office, digital x-rays, and even a specialty Cerec unit that enables our doctors to prepare and place permanent esthetic crowns and restorations all in the same day.

Continuing education is a priority to the doctors and staff at FBDA. By keeping up with the latest developments and improvements in the industry, patients can feel confident that they are getting the very best care possible.

FBDA provides “dentistry for the entire family,” welcoming children as well as adults and providing round the clock on call doctors even at night and on the weekends for any emergencies that the families in our community may encounter.

While preventive dentistry is highlighted with its focus on regular check-ups and cleanings, a full range of services is offered, including cosmetic dentistry -- from tooth whitening, cosmetic bonded resin restorations, porcelain veneers, implants, or even to full esthetic and functional realignment with Invisalign®.

FBDA’s Invisalign® treatment offers an

22

alternative to regular orthodontic brackets for their patients in order to best treat all types of orthodontic cases from relapse and crowding of teeth years after braces, to highly complex cases for those who always yearned for straight teeth, yet didn’t want to “wear braces”.

FBDA’s Invisalign® option straightens the teeth through a series of clear aligners, and in most typical cases can be completed within one year of treatment. Comfortable to wear, the aligners are removable so you can drink, eat, floss and brush as usual. Because of these comprehensive dental services offered, FBDA is able to give its patients the most natural, beautiful smiles in all of Fort Bend.

Unlike the “strictly business” mentality that can be prevalent in a large clinic, Fort Bend Dental’s staff focuses on getting to know their patients and accommodating the patient’s schedule when setting up appointments. For this reason, FBDA provides extended hours to its patients that include not only normal business hours from 8am to 5pm on Mondays through Thursdays, but also extended office hours on Mondays and Thursdays (7:15am to 6pm), Friday hours from 8am - 4pm, and even Saturday hours upon request.

FBDA strives to make it easy to attain the best possible dental health. The entire staff is

Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

committed to staying on time so that there is rarely a wait! The seasoned and well-trained business office staff helps with interpreting the provisions of each patient’s insurance policy and will assist in processing their dental claims.

When considering payment options, senior citizen discounts are offered to those over 65 and CareCredit financing is also available for those patients who may need to spread out their payments to cover all types of treatments.

“The doctors and staff of Fort Bend Dental Associates are committed to providing the highest quality, personalized, professional dental care that dentistry has to offer in a comfortable, friendly setting. We always strive to serve your needs with a level of personal service beyond all expectations,” is FBDA’s patient pledge. Almost a quarter of century has passed since this “tried and true” practice opened its doors. It’s obvious that they must be keeping their promise to the generations of patients who keep coming back daily! FBDA wants to thank our Fort Bend community for being so loyal to us over the years and here’s to many years of continued service to you!

To become a part of the FBDA family, contact us directly at 281-499-3541, or see us at www.fortbenddental.com.

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March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

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NAMES IN THE NEWS Fort Bend County awarded the Texas Comptroller Leadership Award for the second year in a row Fort Bend County was awarded the Texas Comptroller Leadership Circle “Gold” Award for the second year in a row for displaying a high standard of financial transparency online. “The award spotlights those local governments that are opening their books to the public, providing clear, consistent pictures of spending and sharing information in a userfriendly format that lets taxpayers easily drill down for more information.”

The Texas Comptroller describes transparency as government opening its books to the public so that taxpayers can see exactly where their money is going. Transparency ensures that taxpayer dollars are spent efficiently by

ensuring all decisions are made in the open and on the record. Transparency means that citizens can review and question policymakers’ decisions, examine documents, root out inefficiencies and Pamela Gubbels hold officials accountable for the way tax dollars are spent.

Pamela Gubbels, the Director of Budget and Finance stated, “Financial transparency is an ongoing goal for Fort Bend County. We strive to make all of our information accessible to those that are interested in viewing it and we are proud to receive this recognition.”

Dawn & Deepa announce launch of online children’s jewelry store Dawn & Deepa, LLC. announces the launch of their new online children’s jewelry store, dawndeepa.com. With a modern take on classic designs, Dawn & Deepa pieces are high in quality and intended for children to wear any day. The collection, for newborns to children age 16, includes handmade sterling silver bangles, rings, necklaces and bracelets.

“We adorn our children with pretty jewels for weddings and parties so why not for any occasion?” said Dawn Bakun, principal.

“We are trying to change the way consumers view and use children’s jewelry. We like to think of it as an everyday luxury.” Children’s jewelry has become increasingly fashionable over the last ten years. Research indicates that consumers are looking for variety and for less traditional styles when it comes to children’s jewelry. A limited selection is the most common barrier for not making a purchase.

For more information, visit dawndeepa. com or call 866-728-2775 or email to info@ dawndeepa.com.

Memorial Hermann Katy Honors Physician, Employee of the Year Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital recently honored the 2010 Physician and 2010 Employee of the Year. Physician of the Year, Jose Diaz, M.D., a neurologist affiliated with the hospital, was recognized for his dedication to patient-centered care, collaborative nature with physicians and hospital staff, and enduring smile. Employee of the Year, Jennifer Beebe, R.N., was praised by her colleagues for

24

Pictured left to right: Jose Diaz, M.D., Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital CEO Scott Barbe, Jennifer Beebe, R.N.

her warm and caring bedside manner, being a calm and confident leader during times of crisis, and her “team player” mentality.

Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

Katy Chamber 2011 board installed

The Katy Area Chamber of Commerce inducted the 2011 Board of Directors and officers at the Pine Forest Country Club.

The board includes 2011 Chairman Kerry Gilbert, Kerry R. Gilbert & Associates. Vice chairman is Ben Young, Remedy Roofing. Secretary is Steve Reichardt, Weston Lakes and the treasurer is Richard White, Granite Harbor Advisors. The Immediate Past Chair is Troy Maxwell, WoodCreek Development.

City of Katy Mayor Don Elder is Ex-Officio and Ann Hodge serves as President/CEO. The Board of Directors for 2011 are Tad Adams, Adams Law Firm, Carol Bonaccorso, Tradition Bank, Christa Clifton, Christus St. Catherine Hospital, Alton Frailey, Katy Independent School District, Kelly Gaines, Members Choice Credit Union, Lori Gunn of Katy Lifestyles & Homes, Greg Henry, XperNet Services, Woody Mann, Vista Equities Group, Edward “Nick” Nicholas, Jackson Walker, Jim Parisi, Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital, Eileen Pavlovich of Katy Scholars, Andrew Perry, Houston Executive Airport, George Purvis of HVJ Associates, Sam Schultze of Country Park Portraits, Stan Stanley of Stanley Signature Signs and Garry Willis, BP. The chamber serves as the voice for business in the Katy community and helps build a strong business environment. It advocates for the community issues of importance. The Chamber is also committed to maintaining the outstanding quality of life residents enjoy. The organization has been serving the Katy-area business community since 1962.

COMING APRIL 2011 ISSUE!

Business Women to Watch

We want you to know about the Top Fort Bend Business Women in your profession.

Take a few moments to fill out the form below and email it to Barbara@fortbendstar.com. Deadline for recommendations is Tuesday, March 15th. Results will publish in the April 2011 issue of the

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal!

RECOMMEND’S NAME: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ CITY:_______________________STATE: ________ ZIP: __________________ DATE OF BIRTH: ____________________________/_________/____________ PHONE NUMBER: (________________) _______________________________ COMPANY NAME :________________________________________________ TITLE: ____________________________________________________________

REASONS FOR NOMINATION (No more than 150 words).

Pls. provide at least 4x7 headshot photo High-resolution at 300pdi and send to Barbara@fortbendstar.com.

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 January 2011. More Assumed Names may be viewed online at http://ccweb.co.fort-bend.tx.us/RealEstate/SearchEntry.aspx. There were 466 Assumed Names with Notary Fee for month of January. There were also 81 Assumed Names without a notary fee.

Williams John (+) Action Training 25803 Bayou Arbor Ln 77494

De Silva Sonia Charles (+) D & T Speech Therapy Services 16320 Mellow Oaks Lane 77498

Pressler Kimberly Automovia Po Box 16428 77496

Phyl’s Dan Dan Phyl’s The Hair Salon 9999 Westheimer 77042

Chisholm Harry (+) Bamboo Era 3330 Breckenridge Ln 77459

Villanueva Vicente V&T Enterprises (+) 3414 Woodmere Lane 77478

Surana Shamira Trishas Den 2830 Oakland Dr 77479

Estrada Farin A Bbgministry’s 820 Berg Ave 77583

Ortiz Armando F Mando’s Lawn Maintenance 9810 Janoa Rd 77465

Dtm Horizon Inc Horizon Electrical Services 7926 Forest Haven Dr 77479

Davis Lois E Stress Management Assoc. (Sma) 3310 Cherry Creek Dr 77459

Bosak Timothy Bosak Brothers Construction Company 523 Fair Oak Dr 77477

Radcliff Houston Crossroads Embroidery Po Box 481 77476

King-Jackson Kelli Verge Consulting Group, Limited Liability Company 7511 Blue Gap 77459

Daugherty John John Daugherty Insurance Agency 12603 Southwest Freeway #190 77477 Leger Wayne Imperial Tattoo Company 3174 La Quinta Dr 77459 Springer Chanelle (+) Springer’s Gymnastics 16628 Hwy 36 77461 Flores Raul Jr Southern Comfort Custom Cycles 7106 Sunrise Hill Ln 77469 Pineda Joel A Jp Automotive Services 1121 Macarthur Street 77471 Rebolledo Miguel A (+) Miguel & Sons Lawn Service 7902 Summit Cliff Ct 77407 Young Oi Yee Corla’s Cookie Kitchen Po Box 940451 77094 Peters James R S/P Contracting 14906 Alderwick 77498 Buenrostro Ernesto (+) We Haul Moving And Storage 8406 Fm 361 77469 Rcbp Llc Houston Discount Roofing 17424 W Grand Parkway #180 77479

26

Mason Virginia W Vwm Ventures 2601 Cartwright Rd #D-341 77459 Jones Darryle Lifestyle Insurance (Lsi) 2011 Wildwood Ridge Dr 77489 C Ena Luz Laws (+) Agro Sindigo Sa 1627 Oakbury Drive 77489 Cross Heart Ranch Garcia-Lepovitz Nora M (+) 120 Serrato Lane 77469

Clasen Fred West End Car Sales 1115 Ave H 77471 Clasen Fred West End Automotive 1115 Ave H 77471

Roussell Joycene A Comprehensive Bookkeeping Service 4014 S Candy Court 77459

Harraman Megan The Festive Touch 1843 American Elm Ct 77479

Hendrix Victor C Brazos Derivatives Co 7014 Lake Haven Ct 77479

Mitchell Dorothy N Sense Of Purpose Property Managemewnt Group 12401 S Post Oak 77045

IXI Group Inc IXI Design 7205 Bellerive Dr 77036

King-Jackson Kelli The Women’s Collaborative Of Texas 7511 Blue Gap 77459 King-Jackson Kelli The Women’s Collaborative Of Greater Houston 7511 Blue Gap 77459

Bradberry Taylor Your Broad Loves Us 12107 Sturdivant 77477

Saqib Shahan Triple S Motors 2477 Barrington Place Place Dr 77478

Azinge Jude (+) Chrysmanchels 1211 Green Knoll Dr 77479

Horn Kristy (+) Sass & Sparkle 4014 Weston Dr 77441

Robinson Cedric C-R Delivery Service 1206 Misty Lane Ct 77478

Daniels James K Critter Catcher 321 Rustic Ln 77471

Harris George D Ii (+) Harris Real Estate & Investments Canales Galileo Noelia’s Transportation Systems 15726 Barbossa Dr 77083 322 Texas Ave 77583 Blackwood Everard (+) Moving Forward Transportation Creacy Darrel W Dvfit Po Box 1234 77545-1231 3510 Greenwood Dr 77478 Smith Della (+) Fowler Conswella Outside The Box Giftz 11569 Hwy 6 South #158 77498 Cut-N-Up 12343 Murphy Rd # F 77477 Niven Marites M Washington Betty (+) Tessas Jerky 6914 Grants Hollow Ln 77407 Believe Magnify & Worship Records 8222 Obsidian Ct 77583 Harris Lydia L.B. Advertise Agency Washington Betty (+) 935 Eldridge Rd 77478 Believe Magnify & Worship Publishing Company Le Cuc 8222 Obsidian Ct 77583 Modern Nails & Spa 1135 Crabb River Road Ste Jones Kristie K 140 77469 Four Corners Financial Services Holmes James H 7519 Stone Arbor 77479 Ajar Holdings, Inc. 4818 Dixie Court 77478

Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

Petrenella Joe L Petrenella’s Air Conditioning And Heating, Refridgeration 1103 Staffordshire 77477

Ginyard Cynthia M Cspac (Corporate Speech Pathology & Contracting

By Cynthia) 11418 Oak Lake Ridge Court 77498-7006 Fly And Cruise Vacations Valdez Norma J 1118 Pinecroft 77498 Greer Blake E Greer Wealth Management 311 Morton Street 77469 Pitre Allen M Ramp Medical 6403 Bennington Springs Dr 77494 Wing Misty (+) The Wildwest Ranch & Grill 2447 Hwy 90A West 77471

Tran Priority Jackson Richard Insurance Agency Llc Gulf Coast Power Brokers Priority Insurance Agency 3931 Carters Lake Drive 77406 9203 Hwy 6 South Suite 128 Mike-Irabor Adeola Sweetly Wickless And More 7614 Treeline Dr 77479

Rolsen Leonard F Friends Of Jim Hoelker 5 Ellicott Way 77479

Essone Kevin Y Domestik Goddess Products 9715 Sugarblossom Ln 77478

Rencher Charles Cri Real Estate Services 1730 Hodge Lake Ln 77478

Little Bobby L Select Agency 1910 Verdant Valley 77479

6965 Sl Inc Simon’s Korner 2 360 Short Stop 8221 Main St 77461

Townsend Brothers Platinum Design Inc 22111 Somerset Cove Ct 77494

Chiraj Llc Supercuts 8880 Hwy 6 #120 77459

Love Sakia J Exquisite Creations 9203 Floral Crest Dr 77083

Flores Adrian Houston Techs Mechanical 2513 Pecan Chase 77406

Williams Roderick Sr (+) Back To Eden Fashions 10502 Fountain Lake Dr 77477

Starr Ebony Xcaliber Travel 639 Summer Park Dr 77477

DBA (Assumed Names)

Data Beat (+) = More Names

Madden Debbie Sports Nutrition Advantage 2715 Oakland Dr 77479

Villarreal Mark Balloon ‘N Novelty 4611 South Main St #1 77477

Salazar Rachel Giggles And Grins 16910 Tranquil Dr 77498

Colbert Deshawn (+) Texas Knightz 2902 Bison Bluff 77459

Arredondo Eric Longhorn Power Supply 2303 Greens Ct 77406

Spikes Nicole Y Spikes And Company 8007 Emperors Pass 77459

Ewere Aaron Emrald Business Services 17410 Browning Trace Ln 77407

Paez Gerardo R (+) Gold-N-Memorabilia 210 Hwy W 90A 77469

Hughes Jay Hughes Furniture 15939 Darton Dr 77053

Fonseca Leonardo Leo’s Plumbing Service 2515 Glenn Lakes Ln 77459

Woods Morris Leo M And T Auto Sales (+) 14216 School Rd 77461

Segura Donna A Speedy Gonzalez Bail Bond 710 South 11Th St 77469

Universal Venture Inc Cell Phones Clinic 3102 Tecumseh Ct 77459

Fulton Harold Trendmark Wood Defense 28230 Sweet Oak Ln 77494

Gangopadhyay Subroto Houston Cardiovascular Consultants 17510 West Grand Parkway South Suite #520 77479

Transcendent Global Networks Llc Encore Outdoor Products 13327 Larkhill Gardens Ln 77498

Ehimare Iguehi (+) Ehi’s Cakes Ndukwe Emmanuel C 22136 Westheimer Parkway 77450 True Care Pharmacy 5633 Avenue I Suite #C 77471 Gao Xinhan Quattro Tap Duan Gang 82 Grants Lake Cir 77479 Golden Shield Technology, Llc 3814 Bowie Bend Ln 77494 George Beena Blue Brick Consulting Sabitu Aderibigbe (+) 1438 Middlesbrough Lane 77459 Utibas 5 Recreational Farm & Ranch Avila Iraida M 5356 Highway 60 S 77435 Atlas Construction Contractor 1407 Grand Junction Dr 77450 James L Johnson Llc Incom E-Tax Pros Brittain Adam 11123 Hundred Bridge Ln 77498 Adb Technologies 5307 Ladonia St 77583 White James L Jr C.L. White,Jr. Hopkins Ronald Rex 11123 Hundred Bridge Ln 77498 Prompt Atm Services 3115 Pennywell 77494 Sawyer Michelle Lynese Gardenworks Landscaping Uba Chukwuemeka Designs Mekzyz Inc 1426 Brazoswood Place 77406 7018 Spruce View Ct 77407 Wilcox Kenneth Davis Chelsea K&S Hotshot (+) Chelsea Davis Photography 15922 Highland Brook Dr 77083 24502 Evangeline Springs Ln 77494 Ruiz Jaime A Lasso Phanor (+) Jaca Sports Saira’s - Mobile 1722 Keelson Way 77479 7526 Rockaway Point Ln 77469 Holik Melissa Pincheck Carolyn J Saltgrass Construction Inspirations 6919 William School Rd 77461 1104 Third St 77471 Mathews Kirshina Pham Tuan A K Mat Entertainment Computer Consulting Xpress 3211 Ruffin Green 77545 25330 Sundown Canyon Ln 77494 Ellis John C (+) Johnson Kristin El Marin Services Lj Dance (+) 22607 April Springs Ln 77494 4 Palm Meadows Ct 77479 Williams Horus L Creed Sally S Hlw Trucking Co. Fort Bend Christian 803 Foxborough Ln 77489 Counseling Center 1105 San Jacinto 77471 Colbert Deshawn (+) Texas Knightz Thompson Artis Iii 2902 Bison Bluf 77459 A3 Inc. 8929 Fm 359 77469

Bermudez Chanel L Fit.Life.Body P O Box 17623 77496

Conroy Timothy P Ehm Resource Group 1829 Country Club Blvd 77478

Mccullough Linda Hoffarth Family Ranch 143 Shadow Wood Dr 77498

Ausby Charleston R Ca Sport Cycles 4524 Chisum 77020

Romero John A (+) Double Star Transport 4930 Sugar Grove #4104 77477

Myers Patsy Elaine Liz Bazaar 12219 Fieldsboro 77031

Macedo Santiago Target Roofing 9715 Gordon Row 77498

Marathon Investments & Sales, Inc. Smokers Drugstore.Com (+) 12999 Murphy Road #M13 77477

Zebulun Dow Contractor Zebulun Dow Contractor 2110 Dowling Dr 136 77469 Lasso Phanor Saira’s - Mobile 9436 N Houston 77088 Olushola Stephen Houston Auto Connection 17214 Quiet Coey Ct 77489 Kim Ki Tae (+) Kb Investments 704 Welch 77006 Kim Ki Tae (+) Trim Worx 12310 Fox Meadow Dr 77477 Kim Ki Tae (+) Ncb Renovations 12310 Fox Meadow Dr 77477 Tippen Jeffrey L Twisted Journeys 25519 Canyon Crossing Dr 77406 Cumming Gary Crafters 918 Sugardale Ct 77498 Washington Luz Yolanda Yolis Hair Design 9521 Westheimer 77063 Evans Cathy Ask Network Data & Financial Svcs 7059 Chasewood Dr 77485 Starghill Lorinzo Photography

By Lorinzo Starghill 7302 Frostview Lane 77489 C.P.V. Concrete (+) C.P.V. Concrete 2626 Blase Rd 77471

Gilbert Jeffery Gilbert Insurance 1410 Leigh Gardens Dr 77479 Perez Ma Guadalupe Rancheros Tacos House 110 Crab River Rd 77406

Marathon Investments & Sales, Inc. Stafford Battery & Supply 12999 Murphy Rd #M13 77477

Koonce Karen Karen Koonce L.M.T. 1108 Solder’s Field Dr Suite 400 77479

Cashion James P Sienna Plantation Storm Youth Baseball 3810 Emerald Lake Drive 77459

Garcia Jorge Garcia’s Lawn Service 5303 Custer Cir 77471

Davis Daniel Davis Industries 1319 Hutner Green Ln 77545

Omoyinbo Akinlolu Ghard International 5907 Stevens Creeck Ct 77489

Rutledge Manly S Jr Cornerstone Construction 3000 S Saddlebrook Lane 77494

Omoyinbo Akinlolu Tru-Tech International 5907 Stevens Creeck Ct 77469

Taylor Pauline Custom Connect 17424 W Grand Parkway Ste 286 77479

Svatek Michael Ray Svatek Event Services 2507 Bermuda Dunes 77459

Horn Carolyn Stepfriends 2415 Oakview Dr 77459

Ombogo John P Ii Professional Landscaping 1113 8Th Street 77471

Perkins Karen Fashion Among Friends Po Box 17852 77496

Ezeani Victoria Jovic Healthcare Services 2818 Dove Country Dr 77477

Welker Tom (+) Weekend In Paris / Tom & Judy Welker 711 Boren St 77478

March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

27

DBA (Assumed Names) Jin Sophia Advance Mortgage 5219 Weatherstone Circle 77479 Jin Sophia Advance Realty 5219 Weatherstone Circle 77479 Byrd Tracey D Designbyrd Graphics 7306 Chasegrove Lane 77407 Sayeeduddin Naheeda Sweet Miasma Photography 819 Featherbrook Ct 77479 Hernandez Jorge Leonel (+) G. J. S. Holding Group 6701 Hwy Blvd Ste 205 77494 Orlando Anthony All Stars Family Grill 26440 Fm 1093 Rd 77406 Alia Catherine O Daku3 1103 Thomas Jefferson Way 77459 Pace Geraldine F Pace Care 2811 Country Club Blvd 77478

Data Beat (+) = More Names

Huerell Joseph A Jr (+) Joseph’s Tech 8603 Berryvine Dr 77489

Dragon Nicholas (+) Dragon Home Solutions 7115 Tara Dr 77469

Texas Investment Firm Colbert Ball Tax Service 6603 W Fuqua Suite F 77489

Franklin Sylvia C Soul Sensations By Sylvia 16339 Hunting Dog 77489

Massey Marla Denali Construction 1602 Morton League 77406

Jenkins Joel Addison Rising Moon Publishing 5319 Manor Drive 77479

Herrera Jose Herrera’s Construction 7314 San Simeon Dr 77083

Freeman William William Freeman, Msc, Lcsw Counseling And Psychotherapy 2116 Thompson Rd #101 77469

Barnes Adrian Jr A. B Contracting 9700 Court Glen Dr 77099 Mccall Andre Mccall Contracting 9755 Court Glen #515 77099 Brown David E Jr Kds Networking 1502 Moon Shadow Ct 77479 Earls Eric (+) C And D Corporation 305 Cypress Ave 77545

Stone Joe Bill Jr Bill Stone - State Farm Insurance 1450 W Grand Parkway S Suite H 77494

By Accident Inc Platinum Motorsports Paint & Body Center 211 Austin 77469 Fonseca Italia My Princess Tutu Boutique 3206 Oyser Cove Dr 77459

Daviet Monique Caviet Photography 3703 Autumn Branch Ct 77494 Stevens Mike New Surface 16619 Broad Oak Grove 77498

Bustoz Jessie R Bustoz Services 421 Gonyo 77469

Bennett Cynthia Angel 5 Enterprise Educational Ministries 3418 Sunningdale Ln 77459

Feiner Travis Expressions Of Ink 16918 Blue Mist Circle 77498

Avila Ramon Ramon’s Sub-Services 5137 Wimer Foster Rd 77406

12475 Sugar Dale Inc Kids R Kids #17 Tx 12475 Sugar Dale Dr 77477

Amey Uriel E Vision F&B Consulting (+) 17715 Scarlett Falls Ln 77407

Johnson Carla L Duo 3419 Point Clear Drive 77459

Go Green Environmental Services Group Inc Go Green Lawn & Landscape Care 14019 Sw Freeway #301 216 77478

Miller Michael K Home Connections 6115 Grassy Haven Ln 77494

Thomas Laurie Leave It To Me Events Po Box 961 77402

Scarlato Laura Laura Scarlato, Portrat Artist.

626 Joerger Cumings Rd 77471

Gibson Harry Jr Gibson Sprinkler Systems 214 E Houston St 77545

Go Green Environmental Services Group Inc Go Green Pest Solutions 14019 Sw Freeway #301 216 77478

Commercial Building Permits Some significant building permits in cities in Fort Bend during the month of January ADDRESS

TYPE OF PERMIT

VALUE

OWNER/CONTRACTOR

ROSENBERG 503 FM 2977 4104 Avenue H 1720 B F Terry Blvd 27225 Southwest Fwy 26029 Southwest Fwy

Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building

$393,768 $280,000 $350,000 $746,982 $55,000

Mega Builders Inc Nino Robert Dura Pier Facilities Services DUB Miller Ford Inc Collision Equipment

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial & Residential)

01/01/11-01/31/11

$1,836,250

STAFFORD 4003 Greenbriar Dr B 11104 West Airport Blvd 2607 Fifth St 10555 West Airport Blvd 12818 Murphy Rd 13625 Stafford Rd 13202 Murphy Rd 11150 Cash Rd

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

$ 38,228 $ 196,800 $ 30,000 $ 150,000 $ 48,000 $ 25,000 $260,000 $ 869,000

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial & Residential)

01/01/11-01/31/11

$1,623,028

SUGAR LAND 16431 Lexington Blvd 1101 Gillingham Ln

Commercial Addition Commercial New

$12,500 $3,968,494

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial & Residential)

01/01/11-01/31/11

$3,980,994

28

Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

A & K Distributors Inc/ Piedmont Contractors Input/Output, Inc--Caryle Investors LLC/ Con-Tex Services LP BSS Enterprises Inc/ Center Tex Constructors Triumph Church Inc/ Finishing Touches Contractors Xun Wang/ Good Luck Home Remodel Advanced Concrete Surfaces Natural Stone Gallery, Inc/ Atlantic Building Consultant Affordable Tours.com/ Bass Construction Company

Ft Bend ISD/Solar City Corporation The Himalaya Drug Company/E Reed Construction, LP

Data Beat

February 2011 Sales Tax Allocation Comparison Summary Reports

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

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

County/City Fort Bend

Net Payment This Period

Comp Payment Prior Year

% Change To Date

2009 Payments To Date

2008 Payments Change

Percent

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

25,487.63 6,864.46 44,246.36 2,245.50 101,503.42 645,009.64 34,121.57 4,095.04 5,189.73 430,098.47 1,256,945.46 7,216.12 1,289,507.45 4,810,332.74 1,173.21

18,193.86 6,742.71 38,634.40 1,723.91 100,190.97 624,943.12 31,315.01 4,058.75 13,808.73 418,092.22 1,174,175.54 8,093.57 1,430,916.57 4,665,727.53 1,958.09

40.08% 1.80% 14.52% 30.25% 1.30% 3.21% 8.96% 0.89% -62.41% 2.87% 7.04% -10.84% -9.88% 3.09% -40.08%

47,802.34 11,483.26 77,475.79 3,349.56 172,623.88 1,094,792.42 61,840.04 6,760.23 10,427.21 724,692.52 2,104,006.05 12,987.69 2,324,672.44 7,775,472.58 1,173.21

42,046.86 11,874.73 64,720.05 2,770.11 173,076.93 1,061,933.39 54,183.33 7,659.05 19,668.66 738,827.68 1,946,892.13 12,114.04 2,260,690.16 7,472,344.84 3,037.91

13.68% -3.29% 19.70% 20.91% -0.26% 3.09% 14.13% -11.73% -46.98% -1.91% 8.06% 7.21% 2.83% 4.05% -61.38%

COUNTY TOTAL

8,664,036.80

8,538,574.98

1.46%

14,429,559.22

13,871,839.87

4.02%

Top 20 City Sales and Use Tax Comparison Summary - February 2011 Please note that Sugar Land is 17th in sales tax revenues in the state.

City

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

Net Payment This Period

Comp Payment Prior Year

% Change To Date

2009 Payments To Date

51,828,735.14 24,473,895.42 22,941,027.03 15,637,740.38 12,073,911.82 9,176,984.67 7,898,094.46 7,149,432.02 6,936,740.46 6,977,298.90 6,778,133.91 6,619,274.76 5,838,720.59 5,822,226.92 5,233,927.93 4,654,346.49 4,810,332.74 4,875,920.71 4,185,459.84 3,897,371.12

51,421,771.12 22,890,342.47 22,640,249.69 15,405,657.16 10,727,895.07 8,993,497.13 7,574,043.85 6,982,324.33 6,091,808.93 7,151,559.79 6,337,858.19 5,884,361.36 5,488,028.56 4,868,748.02 4,714,151.66 3,709,728.14 4,665,727.53 4,174,687.80 3,730,058.39 3,573,133.66

0.79% 6.91% 1.32% 1.50% 12.54% 2.04% 4.27% 2.39% 13.86% -2.43% 6.94% 12.48% 6.39% 19.58% 11.02% 25.46% 3.09% 16.79% 12.20% 9.07%

90,225,373.90 40,271,307.52 38,355,558.80 26,643,479.23 19,633,486.57 15,281,455.45 13,442,238.24 12,042,587.90 11,466,238.95 11,346,443.14 11,276,232.53 11,115,705.22 9,699,956.26 8,950,202.25 8,375,539.63 7,950,500.13 7,775,472.58 7,274,405.83 6,761,059.16 6,652,287.36

2008 Payments Change

85,363,874.01 37,649,698.38 37,187,482.84 25,132,050.50 17,943,180.29 14,591,127.56 12,777,406.88 11,072,539.41 11,391,411.53 11,884,788.03 10,415,016.01 9,904,836.72 9,183,031.13 7,758,392.27 7,589,280.06 6,131,576.71 7,472,344.84 6,426,443.37 5,945,570.27 5,937,455.37

Percent

5.69% 6.96% 3.14% 6.01% 9.42% 4.73% 5.20% 8.76% 0.65% -4.52% 8.26% 12.22% 5.62% 15.36% 10.36% 29.66% 4.05% 13.19% 13.71% 12.03%

March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

29

NEWSWORTHY Coal Vines coming soon to Lake Pointe Town Center Coal Vines will soon open its first Houston-area location in Lake Pointe Town Center in fall 2011. The restaurant will provide another waterfront dining option in the Whole Foods-anchored Lake Pointe Village shopping center at the intersection of Highway 59 and State Highway 6, according to Planned Community Developers, Ltd. (PCD) of Sugar Land.

Coal Vines is a full-service restaurant and bar serving gourmet pizzas, pastas, sandwiches and other fine Italian-style entrees. The restaurant currently has locations in Dallas and Southlake and two under construction in Plano and Austin.

The eatery will be located at 1550 Lake

Pointe Parkway, Suite 100 and will occupy 3,012 square feet of space.

“We wanted to bring a casual neighborhood restaurant to Sugar Land that offers coal-fired pizza and other great pasta dishes,” said Coal Vines Owner Jim Hammond. “We chose this Lake Pointe Town Center in large part due to its beautiful setting on the water.”

James Namken with The Weitzman Group represented Coal Vines in the transaction. Charles Adams, vice president of retail for PCD, represented PCD. For more information about Coal Vines visit CoalVines.com. For a full list of shopping and dining options in Lake Pointe visit LakePointeTexas.com.

VA Medical Center and Outpatient Clinics open Clinics involved include Houston, Galveston, Conroe, and Richmond The Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and Outpatient Clinics in Richmond and Conroe opened for normal operations in February.

The Galveston VA Outpatient Clinic will remain operational for walk in appointments only. Veterans will be contacted by clinic staff to reschedule cancelled appointments as soon

as possible.

Veterans who need medical advice should call the VA Network Telecare Center Hotline at (713) 794-8985 or toll-free 1-800-6395137. Registered nurses, pharmacists, and administrative clerks at the VA Network Telecare Center are ready to answer veteran health care questions 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The VA Network Telecare Center is not for life-threatening emergencies.

Veterans with life-threatening emergencies should immediately call 911.

River’s Edge Pharmacy opens convenient location on FM 359 River’s Edge Pharmacy is a new neighbor to River’s Edge Court, located at FM 359 west of Hwy 90A in Richmond. The full-service pharmacy opened in February, according to Planned Community Developers, Ltd. (PCD).

“I chose to open in River’s Edge Court because I thought it would be nice to have a more convenient pharmacy option for residents of River’s Edge,” said River’s Edge Pharmacy Owner Shantae Akpaffiong. “It is important to me to offer a friendly,

30

small-town feel when serving the community.”

River’s Edge Pharmacy will offer prescription compounding, over-the-counter medications, convenience items and other services. This is the first location for the business, which will occupy 1,501 square feet of retail space.

Charles Adams, vice president of retail for PCD, represented PCD in the transaction; Akpaffiong represented River’s Edge Pharmacy.

Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

Gordon selected as Energy Origination manager for Champion Energy Jocelyn Gordon is the newly selected Energy Origination Manager to service Fort Bend County for Champion Energy Services. She is a resident of Sugar Land.

The native Houstonian is anxious Jocelyn Gordon to the residents and business owners of Fort Bend County.

As a Chairman’s Council member of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, Champion Energy is proud to power many of the businesses at the heart of this community. We currently provide services for Wallace Bajjali Development Partners, LP; Sugar Land Ice & Sports Center; Landry’s restaurants and many more businesses and organizations. Champion Energy is a topranked electricity provider for commercial and residential services. We offer competitive electricity rates, recently awarded #1 in customer care and stable financial strength. Our corporate headquarters is located in Houston with direct contacts available for all needs.

LCISD’s Special Olympics seeks volunteers Lamar CISD’s Special Olympics is accepting volunteer applications for the Lamar CISD Special Olympics Invitational to be held Saturday, April 16, at Traylor Stadium.

All applications must be received by March 11.

The application can be obtained from the Lamar CISD website, www.lcisd.org.

Return applications to Sandy Knight at the Brazos Crossing Building, 3911 Avenue I, Rosenberg, 77471, or fax to 832-2230368.

Submit Newsworthy items to sharon@fortbendstar.com

Taxilane Juliette at Sugar Land Regional Airport to Fuel Economy A new $8 million corporate taxilane project on 10 acres at Sugar Land Regional Airport is intended to accommodate new corporate tenants.

The project is being funded through a grant from the Texas Department of Transportation Aviation Division -- Sugar Land’s share is approximately $1 million.

Completion is expected this fall. Seven lease sites for corporate aviation departments are being pre-leased, allowing time for potential tenants to develop plans for new hangars.

“There is a growing demand from the business community in the greater Houston area for this type of upscale development,” said Director of Aviation

Imperial Sugar Company declares $0.02 per share regular quarterly cash dividend Imperial Sugar Company (NASDAQ:IPSU) today announced that its Board of Directors declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.02 per share payable on March 10, 2011 to shareholders of record on March 1, 2011.

This quarterly dividend continues the regular dividend program that has been in effect since January 2005.

GOT NEWS? Email your news or press release to sharon@FortBendStar.com We love to hear from you.

Also, don’t forget to read The Fort Bend Star or visit www.fortbendstar.com Ideas & suggestions are also welcome.

Phillip W. Savko. “Future hangars will meet design standards that are consistent with the quality development and services that continue to attract corporations to Sugar Land Regional Airport.”

The airport’s fixed based operator, GlobalSelect, has been awarded Aviation International News’ prestigious “#1 FBO in the Americas” the past two years. The survey is completed by pilots and other corporate aviation experts who rate facilities in categories such as pilot amenities and services, line service, passenger amenities and facilities.

Sugar Land Regional’s focus is on corporate aviation, while maintaining a balance for our community’s general aviation needs.

The airport contributes greatly to the

local economy by providing jobs, corporate access to local markets, access to air transportation services and facilities to house corporate aviation departments. More than 100 Fortune 500 companies utilize the airport annually The airport is a self-sustaining operation; its contribution to a strong economy is made without taxpayer dollars.

Amenities at the airport include a Texasstyle 20,000-square-foot corporate aviation terminal; a state-of-the-art air traffic control tower and radar system; a reinforced, concrete runway measuring 100 feet wide by 8,000 feet in length, accommodating the largest of the corporate-type business jets; an instrument landing system and high-intensity lighting; U.S. Customs; and more.

Sponsorship deadline nears for County Judge’s Volunteer Fort Bend Awards Ceremony Sponsorship opportunities are still available for the 2011 County Judge’s Volunteer Fort Bend Awards Ceremony, which will take place on Thursday, April 28, beginning at 7:30 am, at Safari Texas Ranch. To be listed in the awards ceremony program, the deadline for corporate sponsorships is April 4.

Fort Bend County Judge Robert Hebert will present prestigious awards in recognition of Fort Bend County’s most outstanding volunteers and their accomplishments during the ceremony.

Minute Maid returns as the Presenting Sponsor for the third straight year. Other sponsorship opportunities include: Community Champion Sponsor ($5,000), Community Leader ($2,500), and Community Partner ($1,000).

The winners of the county-wide search for the top volunteers in Fort Bend County were selected by a panel of judges from more than 25 nominations received from throughout the county. These five individuals have exhibited exemplary service to the organizations for which they volunteer, and have made a signifi-

Fort Bend County Judge Robert Hebert; Volunteer Fort Bend Director Kathy Renfrow; Fred Arnold, Minute Maid

cant impact in the lives they touch.

For more information on sponsorships or tickets to the awards ceremony, call Kathy Renfrow, Director of Volunteer Fort Bend, at 281-340-1919, or send an email to kathyr@ volunteerhouston.org.

Proceeds from the breakfast will benefit Volunteer Fort Bend, an organization devoted to matching volunteers with nonprofit organizations in Fort Bend County that need assistance.

March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

31

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land expands cancer services New partnership brings national cancer research to Fort Bend County

Texas Oncology-Sugar Land is conveniently located on First Colony Boulevard near U.S. Highway 6.

C

By Nancy V. Mills, APR

Since 1992, practices affiliated with the US Oncology Research Network have contributed to the development of 43 cancer therapies approved by the Federal Drug Administration.

| Photos by Larry Pullen Photography

aring for cancer patients takes teamwork. That’s why Memorial Hermann and Texas Oncology, an affiliated practice of US Oncology, have collaborated to expand cancer care services in Fort Bend County.

Vivek Kavadi, M.D., a board-certified radiation oncologist with Texas Oncology, the medical director of radiation oncology for US Oncology and a Memorial

Hermann-affiliated physician, sees this as a significant event given the role both organizations hold as market leaders.

“We are pleased to collaborate with Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital and bring to bear the comprehensive resources of Texas Oncology and US Oncology,” said Dr. Kavadi. “More than 80 percent of all cancer care delivered in this country is provided in a community-based setting.”

The practices of Texas Oncology have provided cancer care services for 25 years. Their focus is community-based so patients can receive treatment close to home. Locally, that care is provided at Texas Oncology-Sugar Land, located at

32

Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

A Memorial Hermann-affiliated team of highly skilled medical oncologists and radiation oncologists oversees chemotherapy and radiation therapy for cancer patients at Texas Oncology-Sugar Land.

1350 First Colony Blvd., near U.S. Highway 6.

Texas Oncology includes more than 300 physicians

is the first stop for patients to discuss their preliminary diagnosis and treatment options with affiliated surgeons,

providing care at 100 sites, including those affiliated with

including specialists in breast, urological and gynecological

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land and Memorial Hermann

cancers.

Memorial City Medical Center.

“Our partnership with Texas Oncology means Memorial

Texas Oncology-Sugar Land stands apart with its gynecological oncology medical team. Gynecological

Hermann Sugar Land patients have access to comprehensive

oncologists treat cancers of the pelvis and female

cancer services, including radiation and chemotherapy in one

reproductive system including ovarian, cervical, endometrial,

location, right here in our community,” said hospital CEO

vulvar and vaginal cancers.

Jim Brown. “It also gives our patients access to nationwide

“This new surgical oncology office is further evidence

cancer research and clinical trials of promising new drugs

of Memorial Hermann Sugar Land’s commitment to

and treatments, as well as the expertise of the Texas

community cancer services,” said Brown. “We see this as a

Oncology and US Oncology nationwide physician network.”

great complement to the well-established services provided by our general surgeons and breast surgeons already on the

Comprehensive cancer care at a new surgical oncology office

Sugar Land Campus.”

Once cancer treatments begin, patients can visit their medical oncologist and radiation oncologist, complete their

It is a rare cancer patient who sees only one physician.

pre-chemotherapy lab work and fill prescriptions, all at

The majority need at least three physicians – a surgeon, a

one Texas Oncology-Sugar Land location on First Colony

radiation oncologist and a medical oncologist who oversees

Boulevard.

chemotherapy. For a patient, seeing all these physicians

“What is unique to Texas Oncology-Sugar Land is that

can be time consuming and physically draining because the

we’re the only truly integrated group providing all cancer

physicians operate independently.

care services in one setting,” said Dr. Kavadi.

Now, thanks to the comprehensive, integrated care

Mary, a Sugar Land resident who asked that only

offered by Memorial Hermann Sugar Land and Texas

her first name be used, is a Texas Oncology patient who

Oncology, area cancer patients no longer need to navigate a

truly appreciates the convenience of comprehensive cancer

confusing patchwork of fragmented care spread miles apart.

services in one location close to home. She has multiple

A new surgical oncology office and a treatment center within

myeloma, cancer of the plasma cells in the bone marrow.

minutes of each other means comprehensive cancer care is

There is no cure for this cancer, but treatment can prevent

available right here in Fort Bend County.

its progression.

The newly opened surgical oncology office in the Memorial Herman Sugar Land Professional Office Building

continued on page 34 March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

33

academic institutions and cancer centers.

One of the most promising resources available to Memorial Hermann Sugar Land cancer patients is the opportunity to participate in national clinical cancer trials conducted through Texas Oncology and the US Oncology Research Network. It is these clinical trials that contribute to advancements in the fight against cancer and upon which the national guidelines for cancer treatment are based.

Because clinical trials are offered in a community setting like Texas Oncology-Sugar Land, patients have the benefit of participating in leading-edge treatments without driving to a major medical center.

As a result, since 1992, practices affiliated with the Bob Patman, an executive director for Texas Oncology, Vivek Kavadi, M.D., medical director of radiation oncology for US Oncology and Jim Brown, CEO of Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital.

US Oncology Research Network have contributed to the development of 43 cancer therapies approved by the Federal Drug Administration. The most recent therapy developed

continued from page 33 “I started treatment with another provider” said the 50-year-old patient. “Just to get from the parking garage to the physician was easily a 1-mile walk. Plus, you had to pay for parking. If I had to go for blood work, the lab was on a different floor. It was just a pain.”

Mary is under the care of Meghana Bhandari, M.D., a Texas Oncology and Memorial Hermann Sugar Landaffiliated oncologist. Her weekly visits to Texas OncologySugar Land include chemotherapy, plus periodic onsite

Sugar Land is the parent site for national radiation research

D

r. Kavadi is particularly excited about the collaboration between US Oncology and the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG). A key clinical research

component of the American College of Radiology,

radiation therapy. Blood work is performed at the center and

RTOG is the world’s largest organization dedicated to

medication is available at the onsite pharmacy. Free parking

radiation oncology research.

is available close to the covered entrance.

“Dr. Bhandari has done a good job of checking the

To understand the significance of this relationship, one must first recognize that about half

progression of the disease,” said Mary. “She explains

of all cancer patients receive some type of radiation

everything and let’s you take an active part in treatment.”

therapy during the course of their treatment. Most

In addition to the positive, family-like atmosphere at Texas Oncology-Sugar Land, Mary appreciates the proximity of care just 3 miles from her home.

Access to newly developed cancer treatments and national clinical trials With a focus on bringing patients world-class evidencebased medicine, Texas Oncology-Sugar Land offers many new cancer treatments and access to highly qualified physicians, many of whom have trained at the country’s top

34

Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

cancer patients are treated in community settings.

Traditionally RTOG has had strong relationships with large academic centers and research hospitals.

Though community participation in RTOG has been available, the reach into the community setting and the number of patients enrolled in trials needed to be significantly enhanced. In 2008, a network relationship was established between US Oncology and RTOG to increase patient access to radiation clinical trials and expand patient diversity.

and approved by the FDA is a drug that treats patients with metastatic breast cancer who have received at least two prior chemotherapy regimens for late-stage disease.

Krisann Nething, R.N., O.C.N., is the clinical research coordinator for Texas Oncology. She explains how clinical trials evolve.

“Because of our success in enrolling a diverse group of patients in clinical trials, the drug companies ask us to compare a new drug to the standard-of-care drug because they’re seeing positive results in their research,” she said.

“Or they’ll research a drug that’s been used on one type of cancer treatment and test it on another cancer.”

Nething said the Sugar Land center typically has between 20 and 25 clinical trials open at any given time, with breast, lung, colon and prostate cancer always

Vivek Kavadi, M.D., heads US Oncology’s radiation research studies and sees patients at Texas Oncology-Sugar Land.

represented. The vast majority are Phase III studies. Clinical trials are conducted in four phases which include growing numbers of patients.

“Many times if you don’t treat patients in the community on trials, then research isn’t reflective of a wide range of patients and circumstances,” explained Dr. Kavadi. “US Oncology offers RTOG access to a significant number of cancer patients through its large network of community-based cancer centers, like the one in Sugar Land. This has increased research participation by patients who have a wider range of backgrounds and clinical conditions and live outside major medical center areas.”

Texas Oncology-Sugar Land, under the leadership of Dr. Kavadi, serves as the parent site for the US

“In Phase III studies, we’re comparing the standardof-care treatment against an investigational agent or we’re adding that investigational agent to the standard of care,” said Nething.

Kay Walker decided to participate in a Phase III national clinical trial to help fight breast cancer and because of the long-term care offered by the study. She is among 3,000 women in a study testing the effectiveness of the drug Avastin® on early stage breast cancer, as well as comparing two standard-of-care regimens. The drug is typically used in the treatment of metastatic disease, especially colon and lung cancer.

Walker was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer last

Oncology network for RTOG. Since the collaboration

year. In addition to six infusions of Taxotere® and Cytoxan®,

began in 2008, US Oncology sites have become the

the standard chemotherapy agents for her type of cancer, she

largest group contributing to RTOG research.

is receiving Avastin for a full year.

“Outside the Texas Medical Center, the

“The only negative is that I have eight additional

opportunity to participate in radiation research is

months of chemotherapy with only Avastin,” said Walker.

extremely limited,” said Dr. Kavadi, noting the benefit

“There is no hair loss or nausea though. You also stay in the

to patients who live in Fort Bend County.

study for 10 years so they keep an eye on you.”

Currently, there are 10 radiation research trials open at Texas Oncology-Sugar Land. These studies are investigating treatments for breast, prostate, brain, esophageal, lung, endometrial and head/neck cancers.

Follow Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital on Facebook to find free health screenings in the community

March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

35

What, When, Where, Why and How Commercial Real Estate is Invested in Fort Bend County

By Kelly Ferguson, CCIM

F

or a quick read on the commercial real estate market and ways to invest, consider journalism’s Five W (or, for our purposes, Four Ws and One H) maxim: What - What’s the story?

After three years of a depressed market, the real estate industry is on the road of recovery in 2011. Fundamental demand (namely employment and consumer spending) is improving, albeit tepidly.

Transaction volume has picked up pace as credit markets have loosened and investor confidence has improved. Pricing has stabilized. These factors indicate that the real estate market is on the upswing.

When - When’s the right time to invest?

The general recovery, and thus real estate recovery, has been picking up steam.

Valuations are low and economic fundamentals are improving. The bottom of the real estate cycle offers the best environment to make acquisitions, and low interest rates magKelly Ferguson nify return opportunities for investors. Lori Sowa, Vice President of NorthMarq Capital, says, “It has been an exciting start to the new year. The capital sources that we represent have increased commercial real estate allocations for 2011 and are actively competing for quality commercial properties with strong sponsorship.

There is plenty of capital out there for commercial real estate projects right now.”

Where - Where’s a good place to invest?

Fort Bend County, of course. The diversity in growing industries has fueled decades of strong growth. The increase in income levels and employment, even through the recession,

has garnered media and corporate attention.

According to Ted Jones, Chief Economist for Stewart Title, nearly 1200 jobs were created in Fort Bend County over the past twelve months. According to the Texas State Data Center, population in Fort Bend is expected to increase by over 25% in the next five years.

Why - Why real estate over other investment types?

With record-high national debt and deficit levels and prolonged low interest rates, the buzz is about when inflation will set in. We are already seeing inflation at the wholesale level and it’s only a matter of time before the broad market feels the effects. Real estate has historically proven to be an excellent hedge against inflation. And with financing (finally) available, investors can take advantage of rates that could be considered outrageously low in the future. continued on page 38

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

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

36

Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

Richard Smith joins Windstream team

R

ichard Smith recently joined Windstream as an account executive. He brings 14 years of telecom experience, and joins a team of dedicated technology professionals in Windstream’s Sugar Land office, which includes Director of Business Sales David Martin.

Headquartered in Little Rock, Ark., Windstream Corp. (Nasdaq: WIN), is an S&P 500 communications and technology company with operations in 29 states and the District of Columbia and about $4 billion in annual revenues.

Windstream provides IP-based voice and data services, MPLS networking, data center and managed hosting services and communication systems to businesses and government agencies. The company also delivers broadband, digital phone and high-definition TV services to residential customers primarily located in rural areas and operates a local and long-haul

fiber network spanning approximately 60,000 route miles.

Windstream can serve small to enterprise businesses and has industry Richard Smith expertise in areas including finance, healthcare, retail, education, government and more. The company offers advanced data and network services, including high-speed dedicated Internet, Ethernet Internet with speeds up to 1 Gbps, managed security and networking solutions.

Windstream recently expanded its network data security portfolio with the introduction of Windstream Managed Security – Enterprise to protect the entire network of large and enterprise business customers. Since this new solution is fully managed and actively monitored around the clock by Windstream, it can relieve businesses of the risks associated with managed network security internally.

This solution delivers threat management from the first day of service by means of firewalls, antivirus protection, and intrusion detection to help businesses meet and exceed industry compliance standards such as HIPAA and PCI DSS. Windstream offers local sales and dedicated account management teams, network management by industry-certified professionals and a single point of contact for customer service and support.

“With Windstream service, businesses across Texas can operate more efficiently and cost effectively,” said David Martin, Windstream Director of Business Sales.

“Customers are our number one priority and Windstream is committed to delivering reliable service and support to our customers.”

To reach Richard Smith or the Windstream local sales office, call (281) 490-9474 or e-mail richard.h.smith@ windstream.com.

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March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Date 2.16.11

Revision 1

7364_BJ_MNS_FortbendStar

37

The Breast Center Has Moved—Expanded to Serve You Better!

M

ethodist Sugar Land Hospital’s new Breast Center has just completed a significant expansion to provide even more services to Fort Bend and surrounding counties.

Since opening its doors on August 1, 2009, the Breast Center rapidly outgrew its original facility. “We are meeting a very real need in the community,” says Stephen Phillips, M.D., board-certified breast radiologist. “The center is staffed by a multi-disciplinary team of breast care specialists, working together to provide the most comprehensive care possible in one convenient location.

That is a combination that is difficult to beat and one our community is taking advantage of and using.”

In response to the increasing demand for our services, the Breast Center recently moved to its new location off

What, When, Where, Why and How Commercial Real Estate Investing in Fort Bend County continued from page 36 How - How can I invest?

There are three primary means to invest in real estate: 1) through indirect investment by purchasing shares of publicly (or privately) traded REITs (real estate investment trusts),2) through direct investment as part of an investment group such as an LLC, and 3) through direct investment individually.

REITs tend to invest in institutional properties (i.e. large, quality assets in major markets), which hit bottom in 2009.

REITs have experienced a steady increase in values since then, and many investors believe even higher valuations are justified.

If you determine that you are better able to achieve your desired returns through direct investment in local properties, whether individually or as part of a group, opportunities await. And as discussed, investors have better chances of obtaining financing. That being said, the lending environment is very con-

38

Stephen Phillips, M.D. and Sandra Templeton, M.D.

Town Center Blvd, still on the Methodist Sugar Land Hospital campus. The larger space features a warm, comforting ambiance and more comfortable, spalike furnishings to put patients at ease.

Available at the relocated Breast Center is a full range of diagnostic services, including: servative with strict underwriting standards.

Capital markets have a new reality, requiring recourse and more equity from borrowers.

But the bottom line is that savvy, wellcapitalized investors should have excellent opportunities to seize market-bottom plays.

In addition to market-bottom pricing, there should be opportunities as businesses, overleveraged investors and banks unload assets: Expect to see more sale lease-back opportunities. As more businesses enter growth mode, they may see a real-estate sale as a simpler, less expensive alternative to a corporate loan with onerous terms. (Again, while lending has improved, terms are more conservative and restrictive than a few years ago.)

Expect to continue to see assets hit the market as over-leveraged property owners cannot meet equity requirements to qualify for refinancing. Expect lenders, who have been strengthening their balance sheets, begin to recognize and dispose of troubled assets.

Kelly Ferguson, CCIM is a principal of Fort Bend Real Estate Corporation (www.fbre.net), a boutique firm that has offered specialty services in commercial and residential real estate in Fort Bend, Harris and surrounding counties since 1974.

Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

Digital mammography, breast MRI, diagnostic ultrasound, MRI-guided biopsy, Ultrasound biopsy, Stereotactic biopsy, fine needle aspirations and ductograms.

The full-time breast radiologists are exclusively dedicated to breast care and read every image and ultrasound taken in the Breast Center with the use of state-of-the-art technology. Having this full-service expertise available to patients six days a week is unique to Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. When choosing a Breast Center to meet your needs, it does make a difference where you go.

Patients who choose the Breast Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital can undergo a mammogram and, if necessary, an ultrasound or MRI often on the same day, pending insurance approval. In addition, all biopsies are sent to their on-site pathology department. “We are providing the full continuum of care – from screening all the way through surgery or radiation, if needed – all in one place,” Phillips said.

In addition to providing the only full-service breast cancer screening and care in Fort Bend county, the Methodist Sugar Land Breast Center’s technology is second to none. The powerful whole body 3 Tesla MRI machine – typically found only in the nation’s top academic medical centers – provides state-of-theart image resolution and features bilateral breast imaging and computer assisted detection. No other Fort Bend county hospital has a 3T MRI, Phillips said.

In the event of a cancer diagnosis, the Breast Center can coordinate all additional care with the hospital’s Cancer Center on campus and our skilled breast surgeons, oncologists and reconstructive surgeons on staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “As a breast surgeon at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, I work closely with the breast care team to ensure continuity of care for each patient,” says Sandra Templeton, M.D., board-certified surgeon specializing in breast surgeries and on staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “Since treatment should be as individual as patients, we are dedicated to providing a wide variety of cancer treatments from leading-edge radiation and oncology methodologies to surgical options.”

R E A L

E S T A T E

Commercial Real Estate

By Kolbe Curtice, CCIM, CLS

Managing Director Colliers International - Fort Bend

Real Estate Cycle Opportunities – Take Advantage of Them!

Recently I merged my Fort Bend commercial real estate company with Colliers International in Houston. A key competitive advantage of the merger has been the ability of our Fort Bend staff to tap into the resources of one of the largest commercial real estate platforms in the world. Colliers International has 12,750 employees in 294 offices in 61 countries throughout the world.

Those offices represent over $1.9 billion dollars in annual transaction volume. In October, I attended a Colliers International global meeting and was able to network with over 1,000 of those employees. I was then, and continue now to be impressed with the spirit of sharing and cooperation between Colliers employees and offices around the world. The Houston office of Colliers has over forty five commercial real estate professionals that specialize in a wide range of ser-

vices including investment property sales and acquisition, corporate services, hospitality property services, asset management, tenant representation, landlord representation and property management. These professionals represent some of the largest corporations and commercial property owners and investors in Houston. Our ability to tap into those resources for our clients is invaluable.

The Colliers pipeline provides a wealth of information about commercial real estate activity and pricing, both locally and throughout the world. Over the past few months I have seen a significant spike in transaction activity. Much of that activity is related to clients taking advantage of the post recession re-pricing of commercial real estate assets. Whether renewing existing leases, expanding or downsizing current facilities or investing in commercial prop-

erty, today’s market offers opportunities for significant monetary savings. I don’t know whether we have seen the bottom of the market. I do know, however, that deal velocity is increasing again and eventually that will lead to increased pricing. My advice to clients is to take advantage of the current market. If you will be operating a business in Fort Bend over the next decade, today’s market can offer business owners and property investors significant savings by locking in some of the lowest pricing we have seen in the market in years.

By Kolbe M. Curtice CCIM, CLS Kolbe Curtice is a licensed real estate broker.

He is the managing director of Colliers International – Fort Bend, a full-service commercial real estate brokerage company located in Sugar Land Town Square. He can be reached at 281494-4769 or kolbe.curtice@colliers.com. H

Understanding the Market Your Fort Bend Commercial Real Estate Experts

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

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15999 City Walk, Suite 250 | Sugar Land, TX 77479 | +1 281 494 4769 | www.colliers.com March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

39

Local communicators at the helm of Greater Houston PRSA

M

ichelle McCormick of Meyerland, is the newly elected president of the Houston Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America and its 450 members. Ed Davis of Tomball, director of media & public relations at United Way of Greater Houston, is president-elect of the Society.

Principal officers of the board are Lisa Dimond Vasquez, principal at DoubleDimond Public Relations (North Loop West),vice president; Meagan Stangle, west Houston, account executive at Hopkins & Associates (west Houston), secretary; Don Young, Katy, vice president of communications at International Facility Management

Association (Greenway Plaza), treasurer; and Stephanie Dedeaux, The Woodlands, past president, communications lead at Hess Corporation (Downtown).

Julie Fix Board members include Tricia Bentley, (Pearland), public outreach manager at Harris County Flood Control District (Northwest Freeway); Jennifer Evans, (Katy), princiJudi Martin pal at JL Evans Public Communications; Leslie Friedman, (Memorial / Spring Branch) director of public relations at the Houstonian,

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40

Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

Hotel, Club & Spa (Galleria Area); Eric Herrera, project manager at Frog Dog Communications, (Heights); Suzanne Don Young Lammers, PRSA Foundation President, (Fulshear); Dr. Barbara Langham, (Galleria area), chief executive officer at Renaissance House International/ BD Langham PR; Trazanna Jill Senden Moreno, (Southwest Houston), associate superintendent at Klein I.S.D (Spring-Cypress); and Mike Wysatta, (Kingwood), business development manager at Ryder Scott (Downtown).

Assembly delegates are Jennifer Evans Chris Bozman, (Conroe), communications manager at Shell (Deer Park); Julie Fix, Fellow PRSA, (Sugar Land), Assistant Professor, Valenti School of Communication, University of Houston; Kelly George, (west Houston), senior community relations representative at Halliburton (Southwest Houston); Aaron Woods, (Tomball), regional public affairs manager at Dupont (Tomball); and Judi Martin, ( Sugar Land) president of the JM Group.

“PRSA Houston is a key way for local public relations professionals to meet and share with their colleagues,” said McCormick. “This year we are focusing on finding ways for all our members to get directly involved in the chapter through programming and volunteerism.

We strive to provide learning opportunities to help public relations professionals develop the skills they need to be leaders in their organizations.” For additional information click www.prsahouston.org.

ATULATION R G N S! O C Natalie Clingensmith

Congratulations to Natalie Clingensmith, currently a student at Elkins High School, for winning a $1000 Scholarship sponsored by Texas Direct Auto! Natalie is currently Senior Historian for the Elkins student body, Team Captain for Volleyball, Senior Class Representative for Habitat for Humanity and President of Youth in Philanthropy, as well as active in Elkins High School DECA, Yearbook, Junior Achievement Program, AVID, National English Honor Society and many other activities. She plans to attend Texas A&M University or Texas State University and major in Education and Biology. Natalie was selected as part of Texas Direct Auto’s commitment to educational excellence through the “Scholarship Stars” program. Application details are listed below.

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March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

41

E posed

Executive

Most memorable day and why:

I’m definitely not someone who wakes up at the crack of dawn, ready for a new day! It takes me a few hours in the morning to really get into a productive place. Then, I really try to get things done in the late morning and early afternoon. I like to think I’m twice as productive during those times to make up for my slow morning.

Most productive time of day:

I like to start my day by going through all of my e-mail and returning phone calls. Then I try to plan my day by reviewing my calendar for the week to see what I need to prepare for.

My goal this year is to get out of the office daily and visit at least one or two of the hospital departments. Saying hello to everyone and keeping in touch with our staff and physicians is a very important part of my job.

First thing you do when you get to the office:

I was born in California and moved to Sugar Land with my family in 1980 when my father took the lead at Sugar Land Telephone Company. I attended nursing school at Brigham Young University and Texas Woman’s University and received my Master’s in Business Administration with a specialty in Healthcare in 2002. I am married to a wonderful guy, David Noirot (a CPA who helped me survive business school!), and have one daughter and two sons. I am also a grandmother with two exceptionally bright and talented grandsons, (don’t I sound like a grandmother!), 4 years and 2 years old. I have had very diverse experiences and fantastic opportunities. I began as a nurse working in labor and delivery and moved into education, quality, and eventually into management roles within healthcare organizations. I had the opportunity to create a Perinatal Service Line early in my career, and worked as the CEO and Regional CNO for an LTAC (long term acute care hospital) before accepting the Chief Nursing Officer position at then Polly Ryon Memorial Hospital in 1999.

Since working at OakBend Medical Center I have had the opportunity of serving as the Chief Nursing Officer, as Chief Operating Officer and currently hold the position of Senior Vice President/Administrator of the Jackson Street hospital in downtown Richmond.

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

Executive, OakBend Medical Center, Richmond www.oakbendmedcenter.org

NOIROT

Jody

Photo courtesy of Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

To advertise in Executive Exposed, call Barbara McNeil at 281-690-4201 or barbara@fortbendstar.com

I really love what I do and every day is still interesting and exciting. However, if I were to do something different, I would love to go into education. Specifically, education for nurses and perhaps some other healthcare related professions. I believe that I have a lot to offer with my diverse background, but mostly I want to inspire people to think of their careers in healthcare as “callings”. I really believe you have to go into nursing/healthcare for the right reasons. It would be great to be a part of shaping the next generation. We are going to need the very best and most committed individuals in nursing and in healthcare as they are going to face tremendous opportunities and challenges.

What you would be doing if you weren’t in your current profession:

I enjoy Yoga and try to go to class at least once a week. Recently I joined the hospital-sponsored fitness center, “LifeStyles at OakBend”. It is located right next door to the Jackson Street hospital and I am really enjoying the program. Randy Kaiser and his group make it comfortable and personally set up and supervise people in the program. It’s a great way to ease back into fitness and take it at your own pace. This year I am committed to sticking with a program!

What do you do to keep in shape?

We don’t go to the movies a lot. Recently we had a group over to the house and we all watched the HD version of Avatar. I’m not a big science fiction fan, but I really enjoyed the beauty of the film and it had an underlying social message that really spoke to me. I highly recommend it!

Title of the last movie you saw:

David and I love to travel. We enjoy going on different types of cruises.

What do you do to unwind?

It is a stressful time to be in healthcare for our community and for our country. There is a lot of uncertainty in the environment and it makes it difficult to plan for the future. I worry everyday about the number of people in our community who don’t have the resources to get the healthcare they require. Part of our organization’s mission is to serve everyone, even those without resources.

Unfortunately, that is getting increasingly difficult to do with stresses on our systems, and the future isn’t really promising to get easier.

What stresses you out the most?

I believe that what I do everyday positively impacts people’s lives. The best thing about my job other than that, are the great people I get to work with everyday. The Board, the management, and the staff of our hospital are truly exceptional people with a great commitment to our organization and to the community. They are here because they believe in what we do and the value we provide. It really doesn’t get any better than that!

What you like best about your work:

I’m going to use a “work” example! My most memorable day in my recent career was the day of the opening event for our new hospital at Williams Way and Highway 59. The opening was the culmination of many years of hard work, wishful thinking, and a fulfillment of the vision that the Board and the staff of our hospital had for many years. Celebrating that achievement and having so many of our community members there supporting us and wishing us well was something I will never forget.

Texas Ranks in 1st place among states with economic ties to the Netherlands

New Economic Report: Dutch-American ties provide for more than 100,000 jobs in Texas

H

ouston, Port Arthur and Dallas Rank in Top 20 American Cities that Trade with the Dutch Investment from and trade with the Netherlands supports more than 100,000 jobs in Texas. Across the United States, Dutch investment and trade support more than 700,000 American jobs. This solid economic partnership is detailed in a new report issued today by the Embassy.

The ties between the USA and the Netherlands pay concrete dividends in exports, imports and job creation in both countries. The top 3 states benefiting the most from this economic relationship are Texas, California and Massachusetts.

In Texas, Dutch foreign direct investment and Texas’ exports to the Netherlands supported 100,062 jobs from 20082009. This figure is equal to 7.7% of the population of Dallas. The Lone Star state exported $6.1 billion in goods to the Netherlands, making the Netherlands its 4th largest export market, while Dutch foreign direct investments totaled $9.4 billion or 7.9 % of total FDI in the state.

Economic Ties between the USA and the Netherlands reveals fascinating data on the role of the Netherlands as a contributor to the economic engine of every state. For example, of the top 20 U.S. cities that trade with the Netherlands, Houston ranks in 2nd place, Port Arthur in 12th place, and Dallas holds the 19th position. Major Dutch companies invested in Texas are Royal Dutch Shell, Akzo Nobel, and the Nielsen Company.

In order to further promote the Dutch economic ties with the state, the Netherlands has recently established a business support office in Houston that focuses on water management, renewable energy and computer gaming industries.

Nation-wide, the Dutch are the 3rd largest investor ($237.9 billion) in the United States and vice-versa, the Netherlands is

44

the no.1 destination for U.S. investments worldwide making it the largest foreign investor in the Netherlands ($471.5 billion).

The report, Economic Ties between the USA and the Netherlands: Allies in Open Markets for Mutual Prosperity provides a state-by-state breakdown of Dutch foreign direct investments in the 50 states plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico; state exports to the Netherlands; and imports from the Netherlands. Using data derived from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis and the Census Bureau, the report illustrates that Dutch companies such as AkzoNobel, Heineken, ING, Philips, Randstad, Royal Dutch Shell and Unilever supported 704,098 jobs in the United States from 2008-2009. The report includes a clickable map of the United States with state specific information on Dutch investment.

In speaking on the significance of these ties, Dutch Ambassador Renée Jones-Bos stated, “It is important to realize how many jobs depend on trade and foreign investment.

While not underestimating the importance of emerging markets, this report shows how important existing economic ties are and continue to be for growth and recovery. Our

Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

economic bond has been forged by four centuries of shared ideals, business values and a commitment to entrepreneurism.”

A Heineken representative in the USA added comments. “The United States has been an important export market for Heineken since the repeal of Prohibition,” stated Dan Tearno, Senior Vice President and Chief Corporate Relations Officer for Heineken USA. “The company’s United States presence is a significant part of its history, its heritage and its success.”

AkzoNobel also noted its commitment to the U.S. “A strong, vibrant relationship between the Netherlands and United States has - and will continue to be - vital to the long term success of our company,” said Erik Bouts - managing director of AkzoNobel’s U.S. Paints Business. “As the world’s largest paints and coatings company, our U.S. interests are significant in terms of revenue generation, employee base and AkzoNobel shareholders. And recent announcements like becoming the primary paint supplier to Walmart’s 3,500 U.S. stores with the Glidden brand provide not only near-term job creation, but more broadly, evidence that AkzoNobel has a bright future in the U.S.”

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter www.FortBendChamber.com

March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

45

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

Welcome New Members Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

A Time and Place for Everything Lisa Giesler, Organizing Consultant 5680 Hwy 6, #170 Missouri City, TX 77459 832-277-1745 Organizing Service

AFLAC Brian Lind, Aflac Agent CIT P.O. Box 3111 Pearland, TX 77588 281-217-6237 Financial Services

Aviles Engineering Ronald Ortwerth 5790 Windfern Houston, TX 77041 713-895-7645 Engineering, Consulting

Barrett Chiropractic Clinic Richard F. Barrett 2853 Dulles Avenue Missouri City, TX 77459 281-499-4810 Chiropractors

46

Benefits Unlimited / Gallagher Benefits Services Eileen Westbrook, Benefit Consultant 2333 Town Center Blvd, #200 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-243-6409 Employee Benefit Plans

Best Insurance & Financial Services Angie Mendoza, Agent/Manager 4112 Avenue I Rosenberg, TX 77471 281-342-3444 Financial Services

Calvetti, Ferguson & Wagner, P.C. Manish Seth, CPA, CE, 13105 Northwest Fwy, #1250 Houston, TX 77040 713-957-2300 Accountants

CHAIRMAN’S COUNCIL Champion Energy Services

Jocelyn Gordon, Energy Orientation Mgr 13831 Northwest Freeway , #250 Houston, TX 77040 713-548-3679 Energy Utility

DeVry University Kelly Blackstone, Center Dean 14100 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-566-6000 Educators

Eldridge Pointe Nicky Singh, Owner 138 Eldridge Rd Sugar Land, TX 77478 832-886-2900 Real Estate, Commercial

Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

H & R Block Jasmine Ledeaux, Marketing Coordinator 6261 Hwy 6 S. Missouri City, TX 77459 281-261-4156 Tax Consultants

H & R Block Jeannetta Williams, District Manager 8880 Hwy 6, ste 170 Missouri City, TX 77459 281-778-1467 Tax Consultants

HCSS Mike Rydin, President / CEO 13151 West Airport Blvd Sugar Land, TX 77478 713-270-4000 Construction Services

House of Blooms Pat Houck , Owner 16093-K City Walk Dr. Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-242-1555 Florists, Retail

ITR Technologies, LLC Elizabeth Taylor, Owner 1455 Highway 6 South, ste B Sugar Land, TX 77478 713-344-1618 Computer Business Solutions

Jericho Foundation Repairs, Inc. Cindy Duffy 9430 White Chapel Lane Houston, TX 77074 713-772-7522 Construction Services

www.FortBendChamber.com

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

April Kelly Services Theresa Elmore, Sr Supervisor 11757 Katy Freeway, #1240 Houston, TX 77079 281-496-4800 Staffing Service

Post Net Moe Adas, Manager 13837-A Southwest FWY Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-650-7403 Postal Service

Premier Custom Travel Christopher Grum, President & CEO 2299 Lone Star Drive Suite 413 Sugar Land, TX 77479 800-304-6789 Travel Agencies

Regal Ranch Mimi Nelson, Vice President 4011 S Main Street Stafford, TX 77477 281-499-9651 Meeting & Event Facilities

Sugar Creek Executive Suites Neal Singh, Owner 54 Sugarcreek Center Blvd.

Sugar Land, TX 77478 832-886-2800 Real Estate, Commercial

Trinity Risk Solutions

upcoming events

save date SAVE the THE DATE

Safari Texas Friday, April 1, 7:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

March

Community Resources Division

Chamber Young Professionals (CYP)

CYP Networking Mixer The Char House Thursday, March 03, 2011, 5:00-7:00pm

Relations Division Government Commissioner James Patterson Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Monday, March 7, 11:30 a.m.

YIP Investment in Youth Luncheon Safari Texas Tuesday, April 5, 11:30

The Grand Wine & Food Affair 2011 April 27 through May 1st

April Chamber Young Professionals (CYP)

Chamber Young Professionals (CYP)

Skeeter’s: Sugar Land’s new Baseball Team Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Tuesday, March 8, 11:30 a.m.

CYP Mixer Hyatt Place Friday, April 14, 5:00pm - 7:00 p.m.

May

Business & Professional Division

Christine Spray – “Strategically Working the Room”

Todd Tauzin 14090 Southwest Fwy #300 Sugar Land, TX 77478 713-252-3556 Insurance Agencies

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Wednesday, March 9, 11:30 a.m.

Upright MRI

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Thursday, March 10, 7:30 a.m.

Chelsea Carter, Physician Relations 2655 Cordes, Suite 150 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-494-0505 Medical Clinics

Innovative Infrastructure Conference

Community Resources Division

Children at Risk “School Rankings” Safari Texas Ranch Thursday, May 12, 7:30am - 9:30 a.m.

Infrastructure Division

Frank Simpson

June State of the City – Missouri City

Community Resources Division

Children at Risk - Future of Fort Bend Children

Government Division Friday, June 24, 7:30 am – 9:00 a.m.

Tuesday, March 28, 8 a.m. -1:00 p.m. www.FortBendChamber.com

March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

47

We Believe, in you, Thanks for 1 Year

Spartan Wealth Management Keith Borgfeldt, 281-494-1600

5 Years

Excel Urgent Care Sandra Orlando, 281-778-3660

Sugar Land Surgery Center Jill Finke, 281-274-6670

Rangleland Energy, LLC Chris Keene, 281-566-3000

AFLAC Regional Office, Larry Thames RSC Larry Thames, 281-277-7797

Texas Direct Auto Jessica DeMarr, 281-499-8200

Prosperity Bank Viki Moore, 281-902-1761

2 Years

Stafford Centre Lynda Breland, 281-208-6900

InterLinc Mortgage Services Dixie Sanders, 281-494-5626 RC Hobby Shop Matt Keller, 281-265-4844 H-E-B Food & Drugs David Solis, 281-778-1300

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Milestone Member

Anson Aviation Dana Atkinson, 281-242-2555

8 years

Fugro Consultants, Inc. Donald Anderson, 713-369-5406

6 Years

The Colonnades at Reflection Bay Christy Medlin, 713-434-3800

Perry Homes - Fort Bend Peter Easterly, 713-948-6645

The Berry Company Lori Vesely, 636-939-1547

Carino’s Italian Kitchen Katherine Alyea, 281-261-2630

Umbilicals International Robert Conners, 281-275-6620

TRS Staffing Solutions Jeff Southworth, 281-263-3560

Fort Bend Employee Federation Local 6198 Anthony Lacsamana, 281-240-1865

Cigar Cigar! LLC Jeff Bernhard, 281-240-1362 LoweryBank Gem Childress, 281-263-1100 First Colony Aquatic & Rehabilitation Center Sean M. Hayes, 281-325-0188

7 Years

Jos. A. Bank Clothiers-Town Square Catalino ‘Cat’ Soto, 281-980-1601 Fort Bend Optimist Club of Sugar Land Mike Harness, 281-236-9726

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Bob Hebert, Fort Bend County Judge Robert E. Hebert, 281-341-8608

Fort Bend Family Promise Mel Morgan, 281-403-3923

3 Years

Brazos Ranch Apartments Jennifer Hampton, 281-342-4700

Magpies on Sweetwater Patti Michalek, 281-277-9777

Prudential Gary Greene, Realtors Lane Pearson, 281-980-5050

Bekins Moving Solutions, Inc. Lois Sassin, 713-779-4100

Malcolm Pirnie, Inc. Trent Slovak, 713-840-1511

Property Acquisition Services, Inc. Paul Heidaker, 281-343-7171

Eagle’s Trace Kevin Knopf, 281-249-7099

Lone Star Pet Lodges of Missouri City Walter Darr, 281-778-5574

4 Years

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

Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

9 years

Texas Oncology, PA Sue DeMarco, 281-277-5200 Genesis Day Spa and Salon Sonnie Gohel, 281-265-6001 Links/Fort Bend County Chapter Jeanette Anderson, 281-980-1611 Business Network International Gayle Swafford, 281-343-7336 Houston Federal Credit Union / Sugar Land Tracy Stabenow, 281-243-0560 SIA Consulting Susan Ashley, 713-304-2119 Texas State Technical College Chuck Abshier, 281-239-1549

Milestone Member

10 Years

Houston Community Bank, NA Claude Leatherwood, 281-343-7700 Fort Bend Theatre Tarra L. McCain, 281-208-3333

www.FortBendChamber.com

11 Years

Sugar Lakes Family Practice John Pozzi, 281-565-2800

12 Years

StarTex Title Company Daana Blaschke, 281-340-7800 Graybar Electric Co., Inc. Larry Stryk, 281-340-5500 Zy-Tech Global Industries, Inc. Christine Spangler, 281-565-1010 Wharton County Junior College Betty A. McCrohan, 979-532-6400

Milestone Member

15 Years

Pan Tech Engineering Corporation Jim Murrill, 281-240-1220 Welker, Inc. David Fish, 281-491-2331 Fort Bend County Dispute Resolution Center Shelly Hudson, 281-342-5000

13 years

Browne McGregor Architects Jim McGregor, 713-850-1733

14 Years

JACOBS Todd Thurber, 281-575-2487 Exchange Club of Sugar Land Patrick Welsh, 281-343-0444 Drury Inn & Suites - Sugar Land Rosielee Frank, 281-277-9700

Milestone Member

15 Years

Chick-fil-A at First Colony Mall Brent Kubala, 281-494-2500 Fort Bend ISD Mary Ann Simpson, 281-634-1104 Fort Bend ISD Carlton Staffing Beth Hammond, 281-265-8900

Fort Bend Family YMCA Gladys Brumfield, 281-499-9622 Fox & Associates, LLP Attorneys at Law Bonnie Fox, 713-871-2076

Milestone Member

25 Years

16 Years

Mischer Investments Mark Kilkenny, 713-802-7900

Brown III, R.C. R.C. Brown, 281-491-3300

Dearborn & Creggs Stewart A. Jacobson, 281-277-6400

22 Years

Dealers Electrical Supply Company Joe Webber, 281-933-0797

River Pointe Church Patrick Kelley, 281-277-6767

21 Years

Harris Construction Company, LTD Susan Harris Hohnbaum, 713-690-0791 RE/MAX Southwest Realtors Jennifer Weaver, 281-207-5037

17 Years

Fort Bend Republican Women’s Club Linda Hancock, 281-467-8039 Keller Williams Southwest Judith Leather, 281-265-0000

KW Industries, Inc. James White, 281-240-0909

26 Years

Prosperity Bank John Rebeles, 281-269-7240

29 Years

Will K. Blakemore, PC Will K. Blakemore, 281-240-2727

Milestone Member

30 Years

Null-Lairson, PC John M. Null, 713-621-1515

Wells Fargo Bank Rey Diano, 281-208-6222

Windstream Communications David Martin, 281-490-9421

Assurance One of Texas, LLC Bob Young, 281-494-6400

34 Years

Milestone Member

20 Years

Scanlin Electric, Inc. Joe A. Scanlin, 281-499-7614

39 Years

George Observatory/Houston Museum of Natural Science Barbara Wilson, 281-242-3055

Frost Bank - Sugar Land Bopha Green, 713-388-7800

Become a member Today! For membership information: Contact: Jan-Michael Jenkins • 281-491-0218

www.FortBendChamber.com

March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

49

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Believing in US!

Upcoming Chamber Events

APRIL SAVE THE DATE

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Friday, April 1, 2011 7:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Safari Texas Ranch 11627 FM 1464 Richmond, TX David Dewhurst Texas Lieutenant Governor

Robert Hebert Fort Bend County Judge

HARISH JAJOO, PE, CFM Infrastructure Division Chair

CEU Credits Available

Exclusive Breakfast and Lunch Sponsorship Available

$2,000 Underwriter Premier table for 10, recognition on our marketing materials and at the event.

$1,000 Underwriter Premier seating for 4, recognition on our marketing materials and at the event.

$500 Underwriter Premier seating for 2, recognition on our marketing materials and at the event.

$1000 Corporate Table for 8

$100 Individual Registration

The Regional Conference is a program of The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce For sponsorship opportunities or more information, please contact - E-mail: info@fortbendcc.org or 281-491-0222

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Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

www.FortBendChamber.com

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Fort Bend Investment in Youth Luncheon Tuesday, April 5, 2011 Tue 11:30am -1:15 pm Safari Texas Ranch - Texas Ballroom 11627 F M 1464, Richmond The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, the George Foundation, and Safari Texas Ranch invite you to join us in our special recognition of students from Calvary Episcopal College Prep, Fort Bend ISD, Lamar Consolidated ISD, Needville ISD and Stafford Municipal School District participating in the 14th annual Youth in Philanthropy program.

Ticket proceeds, donations and all contributions benefit Youth in Philanthropy Scholarships to be awarded at the luncheon. Your attendance is validation of the importance of the studentʼs efforts.

Registration

❒ Individual Ticket $30 ❒ Corporate Table of Ten $375 ❒ Scholarship Fund Donation

Austin • Bush • Calvary Episcopal • Clements • Elkins • Foster

Youth In Philanthropy Hightower • Lamar • Needville • Stafford • Terry • Willowridge • Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce • •445 Commerce Green Boulevard • Sugar Land, Texas 77478 • • www.FortBendChamber.com • david@fortbendcc.org • • 281.491.2497 • Fax 281.491.0112 •

www.FortBendChamber.com

March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

51

Ribbon Cutting

Sara Appliance & Electronics 16820 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-277-1522

S

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

ARA Appliance and Electronics is family owned and operated and was established in Houston in 1981. SARA has prided itself on its 30 year history of exceptional customer service and personalized care for every project’s needs. SARA opened it’s doors in Sugar Land in November of 2009 and has since then been reaching out to the community to meet the needs of homeowners and commercial businesses in the areas of appliances and electronics. SARA provides services ranging from custom home kitchens, custom media and theater rooms, home automation services and installation, builder consultations, as well as basic appliance and electronics sales. They are authorized dealers for Sony, Panasonic, Pioneer/Pioneer Elite, Klipsch, GE, Sub-Zero, KitchenAid, Thermador and many more. So the next time you are

shopping for appliances or electronics, or simply have questions, please stop by our new Sugar Land location and see what SARA’s knowledgeable staff and competitive pricing can do for you. For more information please visit www.saraae.com, or call 281-2771522 - office - 281-277-1550 - fax.

Chick-fil-A at Stafford 12161 Southwest Freeway Stafford, TX 77477 281-564-0062

C

atering to busy professionals, Chick-fil-A has opened its first drive-thru only store in the local market.

The new Chick-fil-A, at 12161 Southwest Freeway in Stafford, is one of 75 new stand-alone locations the chain plans to open this year and only the thirtieth drive-thru-only location in the U.S. Royce Ballard has been selected as the franchisee to operate the new location. He is excited to be opening Stafford’s first Chick-fil-A drive-thru-only restaurant. Ballard is transferring from the Mission Bend Chick-fil-A location which he has operated since 2008. Prior to becoming an operator he served as a Chick-fil-A team member for eight years. He is a graduate of the University of Houston where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Management. Ballard is a native of Fort Bend County and is looking forward to becoming rooted in the Stafford community.

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Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

The new Chick-fil-A on Southwest Freeway features an award-winning, double-lane drive-thru and 4 walk-up windows to conveniently place your order. Outside patio seating can comfortably accommodate up to 32 guests. The new restaurant is open Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., serving a full breakfast menu until 10:30 a.m. which will feature the newly launched Spicy Chicken Biscuit. The location will also offer catering for any occasion with breakfast, box lunches, or party trays.

www.FortBendChamber.com

Center Officially Opens with a Blessing Ceremony by His Eminence Daniel Cardinal DiNardo

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston celebrates grand opening of the Mamie George Community Center in Fort Bend County

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atholic Charities of the Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston officially opened the Mamie George Community Center in Fort Bend County in January.

His Eminence Daniel Cardinal DiNardo performed a Blessing Ceremony and immediately following, His Eminence along with the trustees of The George Foundation and Catholic Charities board members and president, participated in the ceremonial ribbon cutting.

The momentous occasion was celebrated by approximately 350 guests who enjoyed refreshments and live entertainment by the Salvation Army Harbor Light Choir.

Located at 1111 Collins Road, the 26,000-square-foot community center is a hub for Catholic Charities services in Fort Bend County. The Center provides much needed services, with an emphasis on low income residents and seniors.

The Center features the following programs: • Trini’s Corner Market – an innovative, self-select food pantry for low-income families.

• Patty’s Café – offers special meals to lowincome seniors and an indoor/outdoor dining for the entire community.

• Senior Wellness Center – promotes health and well-being through a fitness area, activity rooms and health checks.

• Senior Social Work Services – promotes independence by providing comprehensive assessments and access to resources.

• Gracious Gifts – gift shop providing economical, dignified gift-giving opportunities for seniors.

Learning Library – with educational and computer classes for seniors.

• Financial Assistance Counseling Raye G. White Children & Family Services: • Pregnancy and Parenting Services

• Immigrant Legal Services – to help children and adult victims of violence.

• Financial Assistance Counseling • Foster care and Adoption Funding and volunteer commitments from the community are vital to sustaining programs that will help people facing numerous challenges move towards self-sufficiency. For more information about the Mamie George Community Center and its programs, please visit www.MamieGeorgeCommunityCenter. org or call 281-202-6200.

About Catholic Charities Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston provides a comprehensive network of social services aimed at promoting and facilitating self-sufficiency. Services include basic needs assistance, affordable home ownership and transitional housing programs, counseling, disaster recovery, HIV/ AIDS ministry, refugee resettlement, immigrant legal services, pregnancy services, adoption and foster care, and case management for seniors. Catholic Charities serves more

than 90,000 people annually throughout the Greater Houston area. Catholic Charities is a nonprofit, United Way agency. For more information visit www.catholiccharities.org.

George Foundation Left to Right: Bonna Kol, Catholic Charities President/CEO, Trustee, The George Foundation, Mike Wells, Chairman of The George Foundation, Trustee, The George Foundation, His Eminence Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, Trustee, The George Foundation, The Most Reverend Joseph A. Fiorenza, Archbishop Emeritus, Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, Trustee, The George Foundation, Dee Koch, The George Foundation

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston. Left to Right: Stan Marek, Catholic Charities Capital Campaign Chairman, Mike Wells, Chairman of The George Foundation, His Eminence Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, David Harvey, Catholic Charities Board Member, The Most Reverend Joseph A. Fiorenza, Archbishop Emeritus, Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, Bonna Kol, Catholic Charities President/CEO, Percy Creuzot, Catholic Charities Board Chairman March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

53

Begins March 22 with groundbreaking

“They’re here” Ben E. Keith Foods to develop 82 acres

By Elsa Maxey

B

en E. Keith’s more visible presence in Missouri City begins this month on March 22 with a ground breaking ceremony setting the momentum for a major food and beverage distribution center to be finished by in 2012. A total of 82 acres were bought in 2007, west of Beltway 8 and north of U.S. 90A on what is also called the “southwest side of Houston” for a project that was expected to undergo construction by 2009. “We thought we had enough property purchased from the developer to have rail access to Union Pacific,” said Ben E. Keith’s General Manager Robbie Fish, Robbie Fish who also said the company was “short just a little bit of land,” and negotiations stayed on hold for a while for the additional two acres needed.

Fish describes the situation as being akin Mike Roach to the size of a door not being big enough, and then “the economy worsened in 2009,” he said. The company then made the decision to stay on hold until the recession ran its course or until economic improvements could be seen.

Fish, who has been with Ben E. Keith Foods for 27 years, transferred from the company’s San Antonio branch where he served for 13 years. He’s living among us “to get the Fort Bend project off the ground.”

So, here we are today. Negotiations to get the land for rail access are still pending, but the groundbreaking, the symbolic occasion set for March 22,is a sign that the project will move forward because the company is said to need this operation due to overcrowding in other distribution centers in the state. It will be the very thing that will also build enthusiasm in Fort Bend County in anticipation of a new building complex, its operations and the value that

54

Ben E. Keith’s facility in Fort Bend County is to have a similar appearance to the one it owns and operates in Oklahoma. The company, headquartered in Fort Worth, is the nation’s ninth largest broad line foodservice distributor. With the Missouri City site about to undergo groundbreaking at the Beltway Crossing Business Park on March 22, Ben E. Keith will soon have seven food distribution centers servicing eleven states.

the company brings to the local economy.

When this $46-56 million facility is completed, Ben E. Keith Foods will require a workforce that exceeds 300 in occupations such as warehousemen, drivers, accounting clerks, credit managers, safety managers, sales representatives and buyers, which are a mere sampling of the many job opportunities the company brings to the Gulf Coast region.

As the company’s seventh distribution center, the Fort Bend County site in Missouri City will become its second largest, behind the headquarter facility in Fort Worth. Ben E. Keith Foods also has a truck-terminal in Conroe, and for now it is situated in other area locations, some temporary, awaiting the new permanent site. Reportedly, the company intends to hire local subcontractors for construction work involving steel, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire prevention and other types of construction related activity.

According to Fish, the operations is to be accommodated in a new 475,000-squarefoot distribution center complex dedicating 50,000 sq feet to a two-story office building, 40,000 sq feet to a two-story truck maintenance facility, and 385,000 sq feet to a warehouse with a 40-foot ceiling. “It’s going to be unique as the

Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

first distribution center that Ben E. Keith Foods has featuring automation with a computer generated ARS system for auto storage and a retrieval system,” said Fish.

Mike Roach is the President of Ben E. Keith Foods. The company is ranked as the eighth largest institutional foodservice distributor in the nation. He has been recognized for his distributor leadership and excellence in the foodservice industry for numerous aspects of the company’s overall operations. When the company announced its intentions to build shortly after the property purchase at the Beltway Crossing, Roach said that the location and proximity to the area’s major arteries align perfectly with Ben E. Keith’s plans to better serve the targeted geographic area.

“We chose this area because of its close proximity to Beltway 8, U.S. 59, and Alt 90,” said Fish. The distribution facility is expecting to have hundreds of inbound and outbound trucks daily needing access to service markets, he said, and off the major state corridors also heading eastbound towards Louisiana and southbound towards Galveston by way of the Gulf Freeway.

“We felt this location gave us ready access to-and-from, plus the rail access,” once negotiations are completed allowing the

products to also be shipped by rail, he added. Although Ben E. Keith Foods is a distributor of food service and AnheuserBusch products, local distributions will not include alcohol beverage products, but beverages such as juices, sodas, and tea.

The company, founded in 1906, is named for Benjamin Ellington Keith, a Fort Worth native that operated it as a produce house known as HarkriderMorrison Company. Keith is known as the original package distributor of the Texas Ruby Red grapefruit gift packages that were initiated back in the 1920s.

Today’s Ben E. Keith private company services 11 states in the south central region of the country through distribution centers in Fort Worth, Amarillo, San Antonio, Albuquerque, Oklahoma City and Little Rock. The Missouri City distribution center will impact a significant geographic market share of the Ben E. Keith effort. When it becomes operational, “We will serve all of southeast Texas and Louisiana, the entire Gulf Coast,” said Fish, adding, “from the Colorado River to the Mississippi River, the entire Gulf Coast region and northward encompassing the Bryan/College Station area.”

The current site has a Cravens Road address, but Fish said it’s the construction site address. The Ben E. Keith Foods permanent Missouri City address is yet to be determined.

What does Ben E. Keith bring to Fort Bend? “I think our number one value is a place for residents to work. We’re a good corporate citizen, a company that is 106 years old and takes care of its employees; we offer secure employment and long term opportunities with health paying benefits, being a good citizen and an active member of the chamber of commerce.”

Fish also said Ben E. Keith Foods is a supporter of community events and specifically mentioned joining the Great Wine and Food event that the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce hosts annually.

Restaurants, schools, hotels, hospitals, country clubs and others are among the area customers of the food and beverage products of the Ben E. Keith Food company. Specific products include produce, frozen foods, meats, refrigerated foods, dry groceries, and paper goods, as well as equipment and other supplies, for its newest neighborhoods.

COMMUNITY HEALTH CHOICE underwrites $1 Million To Improve Care For The Underserved

C

ommunity Health Choice, Inc. (CHC) underwrites $1 million to fellow non-profit organizations who share CHC’s mission to provide access to healthcare to the underserved in the Greater Houston area.

A local, non-profit Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), CHC’s unwavering commitment to the community is evident by supporting Community Clinics Funders’ Collaborative and supporting programs such as: • The Family Health Program that offers affordable care to the uninsured parents or guardians of Medicaid/CHIP Members; and

• After-Hours Pediatric Clinics that offers services at non-traditional business hours to help working moms and dads get care for their child.

CHC will continue to work with Community Clinics Funders’ Collaborative to identify programs that include Federally Qualified Health Clinics and other community clinics that need resources to better serve families in our area. “Nearly 30% of the Houston population is uninsured/underinsured,” said Ken Janda, President and CEO of CHC. “We hope our efforts will provide peace of mind to the numerous families who need healthcare assistance.”

“ We hope our efforts will provide peace of mind to the numerous families who need healthcare assistance.”

-Ken Janda, President and CEO Community Health Choice, Inc.

About CHC

Through its network of more than 4,000 doctors and 45 hospitals, CHC provides managed healthcare to over 170,000 Members in 20 Southeast Texas counties. CHC programs include: Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), the CHIP-Perinatal program and the TexHealth Harris County 3-Share Plan. An affiliate of the Harris County Hospital District, CHC is financially self-sufficient and does not receive financial support from the District or Harris County Taxpayers. For more information about Community Health Choice, please visit www.CHCHealth.org.

Healthy Choices, Healthy Families March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

55

EPC opens warehouse and processing facility in Stafford to serve Texas and southwest markets

E

PC, Inc., the largest professional electronics recycler and IT asset management firm in Missouri and one of the largest in the country, will

increase its operations to seven locations when it opens a new warehouse and processing facility in Stafford in 2011.

The new facility is a 29,000-squarefoot building located in Stafford in the southwestern part of the Houston

metropolitan area. EPC will share the location with the local sales team for its parent company, CSI Leasing. Ted Coffey is relocating from St. Ted Coffey

EPC located in Stafford Business.

Where Family Memories are made...

Exceptional Location • Championship Golf • Fantastic Amenities Call Jennifer Rushlo, Membership Director, 281.494.9131, ext. 134 membership@sugarcreekcctexas.com • www.sugarcreekcctexas.com 420 Sugar Creek Boulevard 281.494.9131

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Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

Louis and will manage the operation, which will offer asset recovery, auditing, receiving, refurbishing and online sales of used computer equipment for businesses throughout Texas.

EPC is a national leader in recycling and proper environmental handling of used IT and electronic equipment.

The St. Louis-based company, which was founded in 1984, has expanded in recent years to other areas across North America, including Kansas City, Las Vegas, Columbia, SC and Toronto as well as its E-Scrap Processing Center in suburban St. Louis.

“More companies are seeing the value of end-of-life IT services like ours,” said EPC president and founder Dan Fuller.

“The reality is that most businesses don’t want to pay to have antiquated equipment shipped very far. Therefore, it makes good business sense to continue to expand our geographical footprint.

With our existing customer base in Texas already strong, the new location in Stafford is a logical move in the expansion of our company and services.”

Fuller said that the new location will have approximately six employees when it opens. He expects to employ a dozen or more within its first year of operation.

Services include hard drive data eradication, which allows EPC’s customers to comply with data security laws; purchase of surplus equipment which retains a fair market value; and legitimate recycling of end-of-life technology, which keeps electronics out of landfills and helps EPC clientele stay compliant with the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The company’s Asset Recovery Solutions team offers a service called SecureTrack, a chain-of-custody and data security program that provides a means to safely dispose of IT equipment, securely erase sensitive data and maximize residual value from old computers. SecureTrack involves proprietary handling and wiping, to a level acceptable to the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) specification 5220.22-M, of hard drives from computers, laptops and servers.

EPC maintains a zero landfill policy and zero export of unprocessed equipment overseas. Additionally, EPC has signed the Basel Action Network

Pledge of Responsible E-Waste Stewardship. It is a member of the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries and the National Recycling Coalition.

EPC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of CSI Leasing, Inc., the largest independent IT leasing company in the United States. EPC offers a wide variety

of PC-related services, including new and used PC systems, parts and repair services, networking design, web design, web site hosting, repairs and upgrades, and IT asset management services. For more information, visit www.epcusa. com. More information about CSI is available at www.csileasing.com.

Fort Bend Chamber Gala a Success

Shashi Jajoo Mayor Jimmy Thompson, Marilyn Glover and Harish Jajoo.

New Board Members with 2011 Chair, Chris Breaux. Left to Right: Chris Breaux, Kelly Harris, Zeenat Mitha, Bob Brown, Rose Herbst, Mary Nan Holley, Ray Aguilar.

Left to Right: Jim Shaw, Tracey Shaw, Larry Street, Lucia Street, Sue Lockwood, Jim Lockwood, Celia Olson, Don Olson.

March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

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Katy chamber presents 2010 awards at annual gala Photos by Larry Pullen Photography

T

he Katy Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated its Annual Gala, “A Tribute to Katy” in February. The event was held at the Safari Texas Ballroom and included dinner as well as commemorative portraits for the guests and entertainment and dancing by the Password.

During the evening the chamber recognized the 2010 Award for Exceptional Service, Volunteer of the Year, Business of the Year and Citizen of the Year.

Exceptional Service Award Lori Gunn received the Exceptional Service Award for 2010.

With Lori’s hard work, dedication and long list of contributions, many of the most important yearly chamber events, including the Annual Gala, Katy Rice Harvest Festival and Home for the Holidays have enjoyed great success and have helped the chamber do its job in providing local businesses and the community with quality events and services.

Lori has been a Chamber member since 2004 and has served on the Board of Directors since 2005. A strong presence in the community, she is a founding member of the Katy Performing Arts Society, served as the treasurer for the Katy Heritage Society, and a board member and treasurer for

Honorees – Hon. Bob Hebert, Lori Gunn, Doyle Callender, Linda Nichols, and Rick Mac Donald

ARTreach. Her service also includes chairing and supporting the Houston Aeros Charities from 2005-2009, a current member and past secretary for P-16 West Council, and continues with a seat on the CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital Advisory Council.

In addition, she is a CAPS Foster Home volunteer and fills a vital role with Home Delivered Meals of Katy.

Professionally, Lori held the position of vice-president at Bricker + Cannady Architects for a number of years, controller for PWM Electronic Price Signs, and currently works as controller for Lamoureux Assc, Inc. She also serves as the Social Editor for Katy Lifestyles and Homes.

Volunteer of the Year The 2010 Katy Area Chamber of Commerce Volunteer of the Year is

Doyle Callender and Linda Nichols of Amegy Bank of Texas – Business of the Year

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Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

Hon. Bob Hebert Citizen of the Year

Rick MacDonald. His service to the people of the Katy area and his tireless efforts to make the lives of others better is a shining example of what makes our area such a nice place to live.

Through the Katy Home Savers Association, a non-profit organization that aids and assists disadvantaged senior citizens and disabled Katy residents by making repairs to their homes, his group has enabled them to remain in their homes and to enjoy a more comfortable and much safer environment. Repairs include anything from a wheelchair ramp to new flooring or walls.

To the Katy Cowgirls and FFA students, MacDonald has been a key figure in the support and success of those programs.

After his own daughters were Cowgirls and seeing first-hand the benefits to the kids, he has remained involved by supplying hay to those who need it, buying projects for the kids to raise, promoting and taking part in the livestock auction, and creating scholarships for Katy ISD students. He lives in Katy and is employed by El Paso.

Business of the Year With over 20 years of serving the Katy Community as a business and community partner, the chamber recognized Amegy Bank as the 2010 Business of the Year.

By partnering with the City of Katy, the Katy Police and Fire Departments, Katy Social Services and Keep Katy Beautiful, Amegy Bank has been able to raise funds to support many local projects and efforts,

Lori Gunn Exceptional Service

Rick MacDonald Volunteer of the Year

recently sponsoring the new scoreboard at Rhodes Stadium for the use of all Katy ISD Athletic departments. Last November, Amegy Bank collected toys for local children on behalf of the Katy Rotary Club.

Amegy Bank has recently added The ARC of Katy, ARTreach and the Katy Foundation to their roster of partnerships, which also includes Katy ISD FFA, the Katy Family YMCA, the National MS Society and the Juvenile Diabetes Walks in Katy. Amegy employees spend time giving back to Katy by being active volunteers in the Katy school district teaching Junior Achievement and reading during the Promise to Read annual event. During the Katy Rice Harvest Festival, Amegy Bank serves as the financial headquarters and processing center for the event.

Amegy Bank is a proud member of the Katy Business Association, KISD Partners in Education, Katy Area Economic Development Council, the Katy Heritage Society, Katy Rotary Club, and the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce. Recently, Amegy Bank has partnered with the Katy Area EDC and the Katy Area Bank Alliance to assist local businesses access financing with the hopes of creating new jobs and investment in the Katy area.

Citizen of the Year The 2010 recipient of the Citizen of the Year Award is Fort Bend County Judge Bob Hebert.

Judge Hebert is especially proud of lowering the county tax rate by nine percent and since taking office, achieving a real reduction in property taxes this year. All of this was accomplished while reorganizing and streamlining the organizational structure of county government, modernizing the IT systems, building over $200 million worth of new county roads, initiating the largest modernization and expansion of county facilities in our history, including a new precinct office at Westpark Toll Road and the Grand Parkway, a second jail tower and the new Justice Center.

Personally, Judge Hebert notes the satisfaction he received from the county’s emergency management response to the four hurricanes in three years, including Katrina, Rita and Ike, the sense of history he felt celebrating the 100th birthday of the Old Courthouse in Richmond and the friendship and affectionate responses

he gets from citizens around the county as he carries out his official duties.

Judge Hebert is a graduate of South Texas Junior College (now the University of Houston, Downtown), Pepperdine University and California Coast University.

He founded and served as Chairman and CEO of Eco Resources, Incorporated in Sugar Land in 1972 through September of 1985, when the company was acquired

by Southwest Water Company, Inc. From 1985 through the present, Judge Hebert has served as a consultant to the public and private sectors, specializing in water utility and general management issues. His broad public service background includes president and trustee of the Alief Board of Trustees; vice-president and director of the Brazos River Authority; president, chairman and director of the National Council for Public-Private Partnerships; trustee and vice chairman of the Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council as well as offices held in several area chambers of commerce and service agencies.

Judge Hebert and his wife Pat have lived in Fort Bend County for over 26 years.

Continuing Education /Certification opportunities offered to all Fort Bend County volunteers

Guadalupe

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

More pictures at

RioRatonDuplex.com book at

832-788-2294

Saturday, March 26, 2011, 8:00am to 6:00pm American Red Cross First Aid Training All materials provided by the Fort Bend County Office of Emergency Management Instructor: Ed Norman

Monday, May 16, 2011, 6:30pm to 8:30pm Summer Safety for Kids and Parents All materials provided by the Fort Bend County Office of Emergency Management Instructor: Anna Hermann Fort Bend County CERT Coordinator, FBISD Police Detective

Fort Bend County CERT Coordinator, Stafford Fire Fighter Saturday, April 30, 2011, 8:00am to 6:00pm CPR Training All materials provided by the Fort Bend County Office of Emergency Management Instructor: Ed Norman Fort Bend County CERT Coordinator, Stafford Fire Fighter

All Fort Bend County Volunteers—CERT, CST, EMROG—are invited to participate in the following training / certification opportunities. Online registration is at www.fbcoem.org.

There is no charge to participants. All materials and equipment will be provided by the Fort Bend Office of Emergency Management.

March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

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Advertising

SERVICE DIRECTORY

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

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

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

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

AAA approved auto repair.

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

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

Expert computer color matching. Custom painting & pin stripping. Honest service. 79 Years Strong and 3 Generations Proud!

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

First Tire & Automotive - 281-313-2886 www.firsttireandauto.com Craig Popp, owner,3 Sugar Land Locations. 960 Eldridge, 281-313-2886 & 2303 Williams Trace Blvd. 281-9802666 (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 Founders Bank - 281-325-5000 www.foundersbanktx.com Email: customerservice@foundersbanktx.com.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 The Gold Connection Jewelers 281-344-9900 • We Buy Gold www.goldconnection.net Full service jewelry store. Diamonds, Gold & Silver Jewelry and Watches. Repairs done on the premises.

Custom design are our specialty. Front door parking.

206 Hwy 90A, Richmond, Texas 77406.

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

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

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

Golf Carts / Mobility Scooters CBC Golf Cart Services, Inc. - 281-494-1164 Scooters by CBC - 281-494-3454 www.cbcgolfcarts.com chris1001@windstream.net, 203 Ulrich Street, Sugar Land, TX 77498 (Behind Imperial Sugar).

CBC offers Sales, Service, New & Used, Rentals and Parts for two lines of products, GOLF CARTS and MOBILITY SCOOTERS. Authorized Dealer for Fairplay and Pride Mobility products. fax 281-494-1189

Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

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

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

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

Medical Billing Complete Business Solutions 1-888-445-8609 cbsolutions@callmykate.com www.cbsbillingservices.com Complete Business Solutions, the medical billing professionals, is dedicated to improving your cash flow results. Our goals include: lower billing costs, savings of up to 50% by outsourcing with us, reduced

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

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

Open MRI Upright MRI of Sugar Land 281-494-0505 www.mri911.com CLAUSTROPHOBIC? Upright MRI is the only True OPEN MRI in Sugar Land. We scan patients standing, sitting, or lying down. For the first time, patients can be scanned in weight-bearing postures and in their position of pain.

It is ideal for patients who have difficulty lying down due to respiratory or cardiac problems. Mention this ad and receive $25 off your first scan. 2655 Cordes Drive #150, Sugar Land, 77479.

Open Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

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

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

All services available in Houston and surrounding counties.)

Pest Control - Commercial / Residential Gillen Pest Control 281-342-6969 - Fort Bend 979-532-5701 - Wharton www.GillenPestControl.com Family owned and operated in Fort Bend and Wharton Counties since 1963, Gillen Pest Control’s highly trained professionals know where bugs hide, what their eating and breeding habits are, and how to get rid of them. They try to avoid the use of chemicals inside by working with you to create a barrier on the outside of your home or business, thus keeping those unwanted pests at bay. From the first time we visit your home or business, you will recognize we are no ordinary pest control company!

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

Residential real estate sales & corporate relocation.

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

Janet Williams, Realtor 832.724.4894 Realm Real Estate Professional www.har.com/jlwilliams janetw4co@yahoo.com 14090 Southwest Frwy, Ste 102. Sugar Land, TX 77478, It’s a great time to buy a HUD foreclosure with FHA financing because you just pay $100 down payment + closing cost. Call for details. Providing services for buyers, sellers, renters. Also specialize in short sales for residential and commercial.

Remodeling / Outdoor Living Living Improvements 281-499-7000 www.living-improvements.com AWARD WINNING - 2010 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 4,000 satisfied customers.

SERVING FORT BEND & SURROUNDING COUNTIES FOR OVER 35 YEARS

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

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

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

March 2011 • Fort Bend Business Journal

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SERVICE DIRECTORY

rejection rates, faster payment of claims, average of 14 days response. To find out more about this and other services, visit our website for a FREE practice analysis and 50% off the initial set-up fee.

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

Aristotle Grill The Greeks have landed in Sugar Land! Owner Hamid Panah and his staff have just opened on the corner of Hwy 6 and Hwy 59 providing the best Greek dishes in the area! Everything from appetizers to traditional Greek salads, to plates specials and traditional Gyro sandwiches, Chicken Shawarma & Kafte Kabobs, this is the place for a nice, relaxed atmosphere and elegant Greek dining! Aristotle Grill also caters employee lunches, business meetings, and corporate gatherings. Their goal is to leave their guests impressed! Open 7 days, Sun-Thurs 11 am -9 pm, Fri-Sat 11 am -10 pm.

2109-B Highway 6 @ Highway 59 South, Sugar Land. 281-277-7787. $ WB AURA Restaurant Chef/Owner Frédéric Perrier brings over 30 years experience to his newest venture - AURA. In an upscale yet casually comfortable setting, Innovative American Cuisine reigns and is highlighted in the numerous Daily Specials. AURA features only the finest, freshest ingredients. From Lunch Salads & Sandwiches to Dinner with Crabcakes and Filet Au Poivre to Diver Sea Scallops with Boneless Braised Short Rib ‘Surf & Turf’ appetizers and Farm Raised Chilean Sea Bass. No need to go to Houston or into Sugar Land for truly high quality dining experience... you will easily find it at AURA (without ‘Big Restaurant’ prices!) at Township Square - Missouri City. Lunch Mon-Sat 11-2.

Dinner Mon-Thurs 5-9 and Fri-Sat 5-10. Please call for Reservations &/or Catering ~ 3400 FM 1092, 81-403-AURA (2872). $$ • WB

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Candelari’s Pizzeria Albert Candelari began making sausage over 50 years ago. As the years have passed the flavor remains the same, which is why Candelari’s is the “King of Sausages”! They take that delicious Italian sausage and put it in pizzas, pastas, and sandwiches.

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

7425 Hwy 6 S (Just North of Sienna) 832-9470440 / 6825 S Fry Rd (Fry & 99) 281-395-6746. www.candelaris.com. $ • FB

Fernando’s Latin Cuisine We are pleased to announce the arrival of Fernando’s Latin Cuisine-An exotic culinary adventure! Started by, Fernando Echeverria, the same owner of Los Andes by the Compact Center in Houston-Another wonderful Latin American restaurant. Fernando’s Latin Cuisine is located in the same building where Ruth’s Chris used to be. Featured dishes include Empanadas appetizer, Fileton, (Filet mignon) and Asada Y Camarones, Casually called the surf and turf. 14135 Southwest Freeway, in Sugar Land. 281-494-9087. wwww. fernandosrestaurants.com. $$ • FB

Charlie’s Restaurants and Catering, Poboys and Grill Two locations in Fort Bend. Cajun home cooked food. The “special” plate is a favorite with a choice of one meat, two sides and a roll. The meat choices range from brisket, sausage, and meat loaf, to baked chicken, turkey/dressing, ham, salisbury steak and spaghetti/meatballs. Home made desserts are a favorite feature. Catering is available for large to small functions, banquets, corporate or organization luncheons/dinners. 4719 Lexington @ Dulles, 281-499-0808 and 1250 Texas Parkway, 281-499-2233. $

Gringo’s Mexican Kitchen Since 1993, we strive to provide the highest quality Mexican food at the lowest price possible. Gringo’s offers dine-in, take out and customized catering to fit your needs. Open Sun-Thurs: 11am – 9pm and Fri-Sat: 11am – 10pm. Join us for Happy Hour (Mon-Fri: 2pm – 6pm) with $2.99 Margaritas and $1 Draft Beers. Some favorites include the Pollo Marisco, Smokin’ BBQ Pork Quesadillas, Sizzling Fajitas and Silver Star Margaritas. Located at 12330 Southwest Freeway in Stafford (59S & W Airport).

281-980-7482 (RITA) gringosmexicankitchen.com. $ • FB

Chef for You Offers take out dinners prepared from scratch by professional chefs. Online ordering; Customized Catering Menus Available; Corporate Catering for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. Homemade Cakes, Cookies, and Brownies; Soups and Salads.

New menus offered each week at www.chef4u.net • 9920 Highway 90-A, Suite B-260, Sugar Land • 281-313-CHEF (2433). $

Hickory Barn BAR-B-Q The Kiddy Brothers came to Houston with great BBQ on their minds. The first BBQ restaurant opened in 1953. Since then the family owned and operated business has been serving up great BBQ. Although times have changed, our idea of great BBQ hasn’t. Come by and see us. Catering available. • 11534 Wilcrest @ W. Belfort. 281530-9382. $

Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

J & L Café Homestyle Cookin’ like Grandma used to make!

Joy Smith and Paul Jordan are back, and they’re cooking up a delightful assortment of homemade dishes to satisfy the heartiest of appetites. Since they opened their new restaurant, they’ve been serving up family recipes handed down for 3 generations.

Stop by J & L Café and enjoy Chicken and Dumplings, Smothered Oxtails, Meatloaf, Ribs, Fried Catfish, Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes, Okra, and Cornbread Dressing, to name just a few menu items and daily specials. The assortment of Desserts includes Peach Cobbler, Cheesecake and Banana Pudding, all guaranteed to make your taste buds smile! Joy Smith, co-proprietor, worked as Personal Chef to Former Houston Juneor Lee Brown for many years. Whole Cornish Hens are available on Sundays. Breakfast served TuesdaySaturday 6-9am, Open for Lunch and Dinner Tuesday-Sunday, Closed Mondays. 1110 FM 2234 on the border of Stafford & Missouri City. 281499-9895. $ Karl’s At The Riverbend Romantic Dining in the Country, across the creek from a horse farm. Swiss Chef Karl Camenzind’s menu features Angus steaks, Prime Rib, Wienerschnitzel, Trout Almondine and other fresh fish, Rack of Lamb, Steak and other wild game, Atkins specials, a budget weeknight menu offered along with the regular menu, plus a wonderful Sunday Brunch Buffet. Company Luncheons and Rehearsal Dinners invited.

Open Tues-Sat for Dinner and Sunday Brunch 5011 FM 723 Richmond 281-238-9300 www. karlsrb.com Read our reviews at www.b4-u-eat. com. $$ • FB La Magia Cafe & Pizza If you are looking for casual dinning with an easy atmosphere then La Magia is just the place for you!

La Magia Café & Pizza recipes and menu are based on almost 30 years of Italian cooking. The dishes served at La Magia are prepared and cooked in the traditional Italian way, using fresh ingredients and herbs, giving them a home cooked flavor since 1980. In addition to authentic Italian cooking, La Magia offers popular American dishes. The pizzas are made with medium crust and cooked in a stone oven. This cooking process gives the dough a slow rise, for a true pizza flavor. All meals are prepared with extra virgin olive oil and

the freshest ingredients and herbs. Open 7 days, Sun-Thurs 11 am -9 pm, Fri-Sat 11 am -10 pm.

Lunch menu specials Mon – Fri. 3699 Highway 6 @ Settlers Way Blvd, Sugar Land. 281-5650366. $ WB Las Haciendas Mexican Bar & Grill Santos Escobar and his brother Ascension Escobar serve up dozens of heaping traditional gourmet Mexican plates. Lunch Specials run weekdays from 11am - 3pm. Great margaritas, fajitas and much more. Catering available as well as a party room for private parties. • 12821 Southwest Freeway. 281-240-3060. $ • FB Lupitas Mexican Restaurant Jaime and Lupe Garcia have lived in Fort Bend for 36 years. Twenty-three of those years have been spent in the restaurant business. If you want authentic Mexican food made from only the freshest ingredients and at a reasonable price, go to Lupitas Mexican Restaurant formerly Pico De Gallo Mexican Restaurant. The Garcias continually concentrate on customer satisfaction.

That includes the quality and freshness of their food as well as the family atmosphere of their restaurant. Dine-In, Take-out, and Catering available. 3121 Highway 6, Sugar Land • Call 281-265-6556. $ • WB Mantra Fine Indian Cuisine Discover India with exotic spices and aromatic flavors that will awaken your taste buds and lift you off your feet, we will make you feel like royalty. Mantra Fine Indian Cuisine offers Lunch Buffet and To-Go lunch options, that’s in your budget and leave you to come back for more. Mantra caters to all from spicy hot to mild flavors. We prepare our meals fresh and offer a wide selection of healthy choices. We have full menu and full bar and you can enjoy the evening out on our patio with your family or friends. Mantra also offers special catering promotions for parties and formal functions or any event any size, host in our restaurant or choosing of your choice. Hours of Operation: Monday through Thursday, Friday to Sunday, Lunch: 11a.m. to 2:30p.m. Lunch: 11a.m. to 2:30p.m. Dinner: 5:30pm to 10p.m. Dinner: 5:30pm to 11p.m.Come visit us at 15295 Southwest Freeway off of Williams Trace exit.

For more information, contact us at 281-3250071 or visit www.mantraofsugarland.com. $$ • FB

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

Explore Outback’s new menu with 15 meals under $15 including new choices, classic favorites and down under prices starting at $9.95. Our favorites include the Bloomin’ Onion®, Outback Special Sirloin with Grilled Shrimp on the Barbie, Honey Dijon Chicken with Sweet Potato Fries and much more! The local Proprietor is Anthony Antonidis.

Open Mon.- Thur. 4-10 pm, Fri. 4-11 pm, Sat. 3-11 pm, Sun 11 am-9:30 pm. Located at 15253 Southwest Freeway, (Off Highway 59 and Williams Trace Exit) in Sugar Land, Texas. 281-980-4329. $ FB Panda Garden Panda Garden Restaurant, the three times winner for Best Oriental Restaurant in Fort Bend County, located at 3563 Highway 6 in Kroger Center, provides a warm, casual environment to best service all diners. The goal of our restaurant is to offer 100% satisfactory to the customers with variety selection of popular Hunan Cuisine. “We offer fresh, made from scratch meals that is unforgettably delicious!” Manager Kenny adds. The restaurant offers accommodations for small group meetings continued on page 64

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FOOD, DRINK, ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE continued from page 63 and wonderful party tray for catering to the near by businesses and schools. Panda Garden is open 7 days a week on Mon. – Sat.: 11a.m. – 10 p.m. and Sun. 11a.m. – 9:30p.m. Delivery is available everyday with a min. of $15.00 purchase. A lunch special is offered daily as well as the full regular menu offerings. 3563 Hwy 6 @ Williams Trace, 281-265-0303. $ • WB Post Oak Grill Restaurant & Bar The Rios Family invites you to come and experience the same quality, ambiance and service that you have at the original Post Oak Gill. Join us for a wonderful culinary adventure featuring fine center-

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cut steaks, chops, fresh seafood, soups, sandwiches, salads, and outstanding wine selection. Open lunch & dinner - Monday-Thursday 11:00-9:00pm, Friday & Saturday 11:00-10:00pm. Happy Hour 3:00-6:00pm. 4524 Highway 6, Sugar Land • Call 281-491-2901. www.postoakgrillsugarland.com $$ • FB Sandy McGee’s Restaurant & Catering The “BEST” soups, gourmet sandwiches and salads in TEXAS. Casual Dining in Historic Downtown Richmond. Sandy McGee’s has a sterling reputation for “FRESH”. Mon.-Fri. 10am-9pm and Sat.Sun. 10am-3pm. 314 Morton St., Richmond. 281344-9393. $

Fort Bend Business Journal • March 2011

Tornado Burger Home of the famous Spicy Burger. Find out why Houston’s largest newspaper raves about their burgers! Read the review by the Houston Chronicle at: http://blogs.chron.com/cookstour/ archives/2007/09/burgerology.html. They make their burgers with fresh-ground chuck, and even their buns are handmade! The French fries are fresh Idaho potatoes cut right in front of you and fried to order! They compete with the multinationals with fresh food at low prices and very fast service. Their Philly Cheesesteaks are as good as Pat’s if not better! Open Mon. - Sat. 11am-10pm, Sun. 11am-9pm. Dine-In or DriveThru. 505 Murphy Rd (FM 1092) just south of Hwy 90 in Stafford, 281-403-FAST (3278). $

To Advertise Meet & Eat Food Drink Entertainment Guide Call Barbara at 281-690-4201 or email at barbara@fortbendstar.com

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See some of the ads in print in the Star every week.

back pain? neck pain?

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Stop enduring pain. Call today and begin your personal treatment plan. 281-313-BACK (2225).

Spine Center 16655 Southwest Freeway • Sugar Land, Texas 77479 281-274-7000 • MethodistSugarLand.com

LEADING MEDICINE®