November 2012 - The Business Lifestyle Magazine Digital Edition

Page 1

Volume 30 • No. 11

THE BUSINESS LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

November 2012

TAMI sets the pace to improving the aging process INSIDE STORIES

Brownwood flushed over water recycling proposal Keep business ethics front and center Hiring deaf workers can help grow a company Fort Bend Newsworthy & Names in the News Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter Data Beat Information $

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

Jacqueline Baly Chaumette President and CEO Baly Projects, LLC

Dee Koch Grant Officer The George Foundation

Becky Munnell President and CEO Blue Jungle Marketing

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

Tim Stubenrouch President First Community Bank

John Whitmore Whitmore Company

Contact: %DUEDUD &DUOVRQ Barbara@FortBendBusinessJournal.com 281.690.4204 - Direct 6KDURQ . :DOOLQJIRUG Sharon@FortBendBusinessJournal.com

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CONTENTS

Fort Bend/Katy

Cover Story

Volume 30 • Number 11 • November 2012

Texas Age Management Institute Sets the Pace to Improving the Aging Process pg.

For subscriptions send check for $25 to Fort Bend Business Journal

24

Inside Stories

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

Brownwood flushed over water recycling proposal ............................................................10

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

Farha Ahmed is the solution to tough legal decisions .......................................................12 Missouri City wins award for attracting big business to “Show Me City” .....................14 Fort Benders among Texans dominating a Disney Cruise.................................................16 Central Chamber launches Fulshear Business Division .....................................................18

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER ...............Barbara Carlson

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

The Sky’s the limit for Lone Star Banners and Flags in Stafford.....................................20

MARKETING CONSULTANTS................Diane Strehl

Hiring deaf workers can help grow a company ...................................................................22

Ann Sturrock

Katy ISD: A collective commitment to succeed ...................................................................28 33rd annual Fort Bend County Bar Association golf tournament ....................................30 Global leaders Champion Technologies & Ecolab, Inc. merging .....................................32 Igloo moves up in market it already dominates ....................................................................41

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST ........................................Becky Hall

CONTRIBUTOR ................................ Amanda Hill

First Assistant District Attorney Fred Felcman......................................................................50

Mike Barnett Wayne Chandler

Monthly Columns

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

Kolbe Curtice CCIM, CLS

Alan Sandersen

Commercial Real Estate

Tax Smart

Discusses Commercial Real Estate Decisions Growing More Challenging ............ 15

Discusses Keep Business Ethics Front And Center ................................... 17

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

Elsa Maxey Star Digital Studios Discusses Do you have a lifestyle for sale? Show it with video.......................... 19

Monthly Departments Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter 33-40 Newsworthy 44-47 Names in the News 48 Data Beat 52-55 Service Directory 60-62 Meet & Eat - Food, Drink & Entertainment Guide 62-63

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ON THE COVER Texas Age Management Institute David Jeyaraji, M.D. and Andrew Phillips

©2012 Fort Bend Business Journal Magazine be No material from this publication copied or in any way reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

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From gravely ill to going strong with breakthrough aortic valve replacement procedure

AlanTrott

Story by Nancy V. Mills, APR Photo by Larry Pullen Photography

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lan Trott was a day away from beginning hospice care, barely able to breathe. Ten weeks later he was perfecting his golf swing thanks to pioneering surgery performed at the Memorial Hermann Heart & Vascular Institute-Southwest. Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is an innovative procedure for patients with severe aortic stenosis (narrowing of the aortic valve opening) who are unsuitable candidates for traditional, open heart surgery. This less invasive technology places a new aortic valve within the diseased valve while the patient’s heart is still beating. Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital is among only a handful of U.S. hospitals performing the TAVR procedure. “TAVR put me back on earth,” said the 82-year-old Trott, who now walks 1 mile a day.

From quick decline to newfound hope Although Trott had some minor heart issues over the years, he was in good health and played golf regularly. In early 2012, that all changed. First, he started kidney dialysis. Then testing by his cardiologist confirmed an aortic valve blockage. Because he was too fragile to undergo traditional valve replacement surgery, Trott and his wife decided it was time for hospice. They set an appointment for the following week to have Trott’s primary care physician write the order. “He was a really, really, sick, weak man,” said Maureen Trott, his wife of 19 years. Waiting for the doctor’s appointment was trying, particularly as Trott found it more difficult to breathe. Then it happened. He couldn’t breathe, and an ambulance rushed him to Memorial Hermann Southwest. At the hospital, the Trotts shared their decision about hospice care with the physicians. To their amazement, they learned this might not be necessary. Tests confirmed that Trott was indeed a candidate for TAVR surgery.

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Benefits of TAVR During the TAVR procedure, a catheter is inserted into the femoral artery in the groin and guided to the heart. Then a balloon-expandable stent with an integrated bovine pericardial valve is positioned inside the diseased aortic valve and inflated. Because this technique doesn’t open the chest or stop the heart, patients experience significantly lower cardiac and respiratory complications and less blood loss. Robert Baldwin, M.D., a cardiovascular surgeon affiliated with Memorial Hermann Southwest, was part of Trott’s surgical team. He said TAVR valve function is nearly equal to the valves used in open heart surgery. Additionally, valves used in Europe for the past 10 years show little signs of deterioration. He points to shorter hospital stays and faster recovery as major patient benefits of the TAVR procedure. “During a traditional aortic valve replacement, patients are normally hospitalized for one or two weeks,” said Dr. Baldwin. “Then it’s one to three months before they start to feel robust again.” One day following the TAVR procedure, Trott received a permanent pacemaker to regulate his heartbeat – a possibility explained before the TAVR surgery. Five days later he went home. Within a few weeks he was swinging at Wiffle balls in his backyard as part of his physical therapy rehabilitation. Today Trott is delighted that he can drive himself to kidney dialysis and the golf course. He also likes the images revealed on his most recent echocardiogram. With the excitement of a child receiving a coveted toy, he said, “It was the greatest thing to watch my heart valve flutter away.”

To learn more about the TAVR procedure, visit memorialhermann. org/southwest/heartmurmur. For a referral to a cardiologist affiliated with Memorial Hermann Southwest, call 713.456.5348.

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Serious business: Direct potable water use in Texas

Brownwood flushed over water recycling proposal By Mike Barnett

T

he certainty for Texans of fresh, unlimited and cheap water is being flushed down the toilet as the recent (and current) drought has left many cities high and dry in a search to provide for their residents. A growing realization that we must act now to ensure future supplies has cities like Brownwood considering a water treatment system that will recycle what goes down the bowl through the faucet in the kitchen sink. City leaders admit it will be a tough sell to squeamish residents but they are faced with a water supply that is at record lows because of dry weather. If approved, it would be the most direct reuse of wastewater in the United States. It’s not the first time wastewater has been treated and reused. Some cities treat it to near drinkable standards, dump it into a body of water and let sit awhile before it is retreated for drinking use. This common process is called indirect potable use. Other cities like Austin use treated wastewater to water golf courses and for industrial applications. The process under consideration in

Brownwood, called direct potable use, puts wastewater in a treatment plant where it goes through many purification processes. After the water meets federal safe drinking water standards, it would pump directly into water pipes. That Brownwood is even considering the project brings home the fact that water is serious business in Texas. One of the chief critics of the proposed system, as reported by the Austin American-Statesman, says the city hasn’t instituted strict enough conservation standards, and points a finger at agriculture as a heavy water user. That’s all too familiar as water issues heat up in Texas. Three things we need to consider: Agriculture is not a water waster as reported by The Texas Water Institute. That report shows irrigation efficiency in much of the state at 88 to 95 percent. Everyone needs to remember it takes water to grow food. Take the water out of agriculture and consider where your food will come from. Take the water out of agriculture and rural communities die, people lose jobs and the state economy

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takes a huge hit. Technology is not a bad word. It has made agriculture more efficient. It can help us make more efficient use of our water through recycling, if we will let it. Conservation is important for rural and urban Texas alike. Every drop counts. Millions of gallons of water are lost every day from leaky pipes underlying city streets. We must continue to research new sources of water such as desalination. Kudos to Brownwood city fathers for thinking outside the box in an attempt to solve the city’s water problems. Some residents may have a hard time stomaching the results, until they realize the choice is recycled, purified water or no water at all. It will take that kind of vision and courage to solve Texas water woes as a growing population places increasing demands on our supply. I hope Texans are ready.

Fort Bend county deputy constable successfully undergoes new state-of-the-art heart surgery at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital

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ast year, 66-year-old Fort Bend County Deputy Constable, Corporal Al Dobson, started experiencing pain in the right side of his chest. At first, he was not concerned, but then the pain began traveling down to his right shoulder, elbow and finally became worse. Even though we most commonly hear that heart attacks cause pain and numbness in the left side of the body, Corporal Dobson knew to call 911. He was taken to Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, where staff cardiologist, Dr. B. Keith Ellis performed a coronary angiogram on him and found significant blockage in his main artery to the heart and recommended bypass surgery. “Everything happened so fast,� said Officer Dobson. “When I first heard the words heart surgery I was in shock, but Dr. Tripathy quickly calmed my fears when he told me that he was going to do the surgery using a minimally invasive procedure

Uttam Tripathy, M.D. and Corporal Al Dobson.

that required only one small incision.� The traditional method of open-heart surgery requires opening the patient’s chest wall from the front. Dr. Uttam Tripathy, cardiothoracic surgeon on staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, instead used a minimally invasive approach that requires only one small incision on his side—resulting in less pain, less potential for complications and a quicker recovery. Dr. Tripathy is currently the only cardiovascular surgeon

performing this advanced method of heart surgery in Fort Bend and surrounding areas. A year after his minimally invasive heart surgery, Corporal Dobson is enjoying life to the fullest with his wife of 39 years and their three children. As a member of the Criminal Justice System since 1969, Corporal Dobson is currently serving the Fort Bend community and has earned his certification as a Master Peace Officer. “I feel fortunate to have been treated by the finest medical team. The staff and nurses that cared for me at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital were excellent. I can’t believe how quick the recovery and rehabilitation process was. It has been over a year since Dr. Tripathy saved my life and I feel great!� explained Corporal Dobson. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Tripathy or another cardiothoracic surgeon in your area, please call the Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s physician referral line at 281-274-7500 or visit MethodistSugarLand.com.

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Call 281-276-5200 today to schedule an appointment. •

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Located on the Methodist Sugar Land Hospital campus in Medical Office Building Two, Suite 151.

Medical Office Building Two Ĺ– 16659 Southwest Freeway, Suite 151 Sugar Land, Texas 77479 Ĺ– 281-276-5200 Ĺ– MethodistSugarLandDocs.com

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Farha Ahmed, Committed to Excellence, a Lawyer’s Journey

F

arha Ahmed gets asked many times why she became an attorney. “It’s simple. I’ve always had an affinity for the little guy or the underdog. Whether it was in school, standing up against bullies or helping out a young girl caught up in an abusive relationship, it is these challenges that drove me to be an attorney. It was the attorney who championed for the rights of the individual, small business owners and the local community who I admired and wanted to become. More importantly, I also know what kind of attorney I didn’t want to be. I did not want to become the kind of attorney who would ‘nickel and dime’ my clients or not be responsive to what is best

for them, as opposed to what is best for the attorney.” Farha continues, “I have made a concerted effort to run my practice for the resultoriented and cost-effective business owner. Being a small business owner myself, I understand the concerns and issues just as well as my client. That means that I make sure we have a reasonable budget for legal costs and clients don’t have to worry about charges for telephone discussions and just sending a simple fax. Honestly, this is what I hear from many of my clients. Many of my clients come to me after having had a bad experience with their former attorney. It’s the nature of the business. If firms grow too large too fast, what takes a toll is the quality of communication and the relationship with the client.

The annual “Light of Hope” in Sugar Land’s Town Square, remembering children who are victims of abuse. Each square represents a child.

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

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

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Farha Ahmed

Advertorial

I am very selective about the kind of clients and cases that I accept. At that first visit or consultation, I am interviewing the client as much as they are interviewing me. I always ask the client to take the time and visit with two other attorneys before deciding to retain an attorney. I understand that the relationship with a client and their attorney must be able to endure the ups and downs of a lengthy commercial litigation or an emotionallytaxing case such as a divorce. I take the time to explain all aspects of the case including more cost-effective measures, which may not involve going to court.” Farha expands on her thoughts, “The personalities and work ethic of both the client and attorney must be in sync. For me, being someone’s attorney is one of loyalty and seeing that all the issues are resolved in the best interest of the client.” What one doesn’t hear often enough in the legal arena is that “As for my being an attorney, it’s a journey of doing the right thing for the right reason. The law is what I truly love and I see it in every part of our life. There is hardly an item that doesn’t have the law imprinted someplace, whether it’s the mattress tag that prohibits removal or the coffee cup that says ‘Caution: This beverage is hot,’ as an everyday example.” The law even provides us with the opportunity to give our healthcare directions. Farha explained that in Texas, the law makes it easy for people to give another adult (related or not) instructions about how they need to be medically treated if they are physically incapable of making a decision, which usually occurs when the individual is under the direction of some medical care facility or doctor. The document is called the Directive to Physicians. One should provide a signed copy to the attending physician and the hospital. For a more broad scope of healthcare decisions, not just when one has a terminal or irreversible condition, a Medical Power of Attorney allows people to appoint an agent to make those decisions. You may always override or revoke the authority by simply communicating your decisions. The Medical Power of Attorney activates only when a doctor certifies that you are not capable of making those medical decisions. None of these documents affect who can handle your finances and estate while you are incapacitated or just need help acting in your own best interest. Advertorial

Farha visiting with a senior during the Senior Meals On Wheels Program.

It is imperative that you should discuss potential health crises with your family and eventually put in writing your wishes, using some of the above-mentioned tools to ensure that your needs are respected and fulfilled. It is recommended that you are proactive in making these decisions while all parties are in a clear state of mind. The last thing you want to do is make these types of decisions hastily. Farha Ahmed has lived in Sugar Land for 20 years and has been very active in the community. Not only is she a board member of the First Colony Community Association (FCCA), a board member of the Sugar Land Exchange Club and a volunteer with Fort Bend Lawyers Care that represent clients pro bono, but she is also on the advisory council for Child Advocates of Fort Bend, while active in other non-profits. “I enjoy giving back, especially helping those out who have no one else to turn to,” Farha says. With over 15 years of experience as a Texas attorney, Farha has focused on representing her clients with zeal and compassion. “I enjoy my craft; helping people solve difficult problems while being challenged to perform at a high level of excellence,” Farha explains. Farha’s areas of practice are wide ranging, which include commercial transactions, family law, probate and civil litigation. Farha also advises domestic abuse victims and nonprofit organizations. Farha explains, “It is so important that someone educates domestic abuse victims about their options,

how to protect themselves, their children, their assets and the steps to take in order to becoming independent.” Farha continues, “Being in tune with your client is so critical when dealing with highly-charged emotional issues.” When asked what drew Farha to this aspect of her practice, she explained further, “My compassion began with domestic violence victims back in the 1980’s. Very few young female volunteers got involved because they were afraid and uninformed. They not only worried about protecting the victims, but in addition, they had to worry about protecting themselves. At the time, this was an evolving area of law that we, as women, were beginning to tackle and we were entering uncertain waters. Today the struggle is easier because we have the support of law enforcement and the district attorney’s office.” Farha is not only a woman-owned business, but she is a small business owner. Farha explains, “I feel a camaraderie with business owners throughout Fort Bend County. They value and embrace what I practice, which is fiscal responsibility. Engaging a lawyer can be a burdensome expense to a small business. We are all watching the bottom line. The longer a legal case drags out, the more emotionally taxing it becomes to the client, not to mention the precious time it takes away from the business. Finding a quick and comparable resolution benefits everyone involved.” What more could one ask for?

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Missouri City wins prestigious state award for “Team Effort” in attracting Niagara Bottling Company

Image courtesy of Missouri City

Missouri City is the proud winner of the prestigious 2012 Community Economic Development Award for the Niagara Bottling Company project. Niagara’s Missouri City plant is scheduled to be fully operational in Lakeview Business Park in the first quarter of 2013.

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issouri City’s steadfast commitment to economic development and privatepublic partnerships that promote growth was recently rewarded with the prestigious 2012 Community Economic Development Award for the Niagara Bottling Company project. The honor was bestowed by the Texas Economic Development Council and the “Show Me City” won the top award for cities with populations of 40,001 to 100,000. In making its decision, TEDC cited Missouri City’s “team effort” in partnering with the Greater Houston Partnership, the Fort Bend Economic Development Council, Fort Bend County, CenterPoint Energy Economic Development Group and Water Control and Improvement District No. 2 to interest the second largest water bottling company in the United States in opening its doors in premier Lakeview Business Park.

“We are very pleased with this achievement that involved CenterPoint, representing power, WCID number two, representing water, Fort Bend Economic Development Council, providing tax abatement assistance and the Greater Houston Partnership, which initiated the discussion,” said Mayor Allen Owen, sharing details of the recognition. Mayor Owen, City Manager Edward Broussard and Economic Development Coordinator Bob Graf traveled to Austin recently to receive the award. “The criteria used to determine the winners included, innovativeness, transferability to other communities, the number of jobs created, community commitment and added value to the tax base,” Graf said. “The Texas Economic Development Council looks at what tools were used as a community effort. For example, we were able to secure the deal with the help of other entities that will provide the resources that Niagara’s

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356,000 square foot plant will require.” In its recognition, TEDC also noted that “Missouri City attracted Niagara Bottling Company to the site of a former golf course, which had been re-developed into the Lakeview Business Park by Trammell Crow Company. Missouri City provided a 10-year tax abatement and used a Section 380 Agreement to help streamline the development process. The $60 million investment will create nearly 100 jobs.” Niagara’s Missouri City plant is scheduled to be fully operational in the first quarter of 2013. When complete, the facility will include water processing, bottle manufacturing, warehousing and a distribution facility. The local plant will be the company’s 12th location countrywide, and will serve an expansive regional market for private label bottled water. Headquartered in Ontario, California, Niagara has bottling plants in eight states including Texas.

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Commercial Real Estate Decisions Growing More Challenging The combination of an unstable economic environment and a number of upcoming proposed regulatory changes are making both short and long term planning extremely difficult for commercial real estate owners, tenants and investors. As a result, it will be critical over upcoming years to consult with appropriate professionals prior to making lease and purchase decisions. Among the upcoming new challenges that owners and tenants will soon have to deal with are: 1) New Real Estate Tax On January 1st a new 3.8% tax on some real estate investments will take effect. When the legislation becomes effective in 2013, a 3.8% tax on some income from interest, dividends, rents (less expenses) and capital gains (less capital losses) may be imposed. The tax will only be applicable to individuals with

an adjusted annual gross income (AGI) above $200,000.00 and couples filing jointly with AGI greater than $250,000.00. The new tax was enacted on March 23, 2010, just hours before the final debate on President Obama’s massive healthcare legislation began. It had not been introduced, discussed or reviewed prior to that time. The National Association of Realtors expressed strong objections, but the legislation passed on a vote that followed along party lines. The new tax is sometimes referred to as a “Medicare Tax� because the proceeds from it are earmarked to pay for over half of the total new expenditures in the new health care reform package. 2) Change in Capital Gains Tax President Obama, in his proposed 2013 budget, is calling on Congress to make a number of tax changes for individuals.

Long-term capital gains tax rate would increase to 20%, up from 15% currently. The increased tax on gains will make commercial real estate tax deferral strategies such as 1031 exchanges and installment sales even more viable. A 1031 exchange allows a seller to defer taxes on the capital gain from the sale of a property by exchanging into another (typically larger) property. There are strict criteria which must be followed for legal exchange, and sellers should consult with a qualified 1031 exchange consultant well in advance of consummating a transaction. Installment sales allow the seller to defer capital gains taxes by spreading the gain over several years as proceeds are received.

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Fort Benders among Texans dominating a Disney Cruise By Wayne Chandler

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n Disney Cruise Lines ship Magic’s second ever trip out of Galveston there were 1,424 Texans among the 2,200 guests, including scores from Fort Bend County. All found each other in the Port of Galveston. Shortly before this seven day trip, Disney and the Port of Galveston announced a terrific two year deal which commits the Magic to 38 calls to the port this year and next, extending into the Spring of 2014. “This is a wonderful thing for us,” said port director Mike Mierzwa. “It will bring at least $2.4 million in gross revenues… I’m sure there will be some spike in benefits to

Donald and one of his Texan friends, Matthew Bradley.

the City of Galveston and outlying cities and with the Strand and restaurants.” And the port and surrounding businesses also are benefiting from two Carnival ships, Triumph and its Carnival Magic, the newest and largest ship ever based in Texas, plus Royal Caribbean’s huge Mariner of the Seas, and Princess’ Crown Princess. And many of these passengers, including some from remote parts of Texas, are coming to Galveston via Houston’s two airports. But for many in the Fort Bend and Greater Houston area and beyond, it’s a cheaper cruise trip since customers can arrive by automobile and avoid the expense and hassle of air travel. While this trip was during school time, there were 609 youngsters registered for the ship’s Kids Club activities, plus many others.

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One mother who, along with her husband, had five daughters and a son on the ship, said that the children brought homework with them. Another mother quickly added that her three children “home schooled” on the ship. The Disney Magic is among the smallest of these five ships which will shuttle in and out through next Spring, but Carnival and Royal Caribbean will have ships out of Galveston all year long. Just imagine what a massive undertaking it is (and Disney Magic is just a small example) for these crews to provide three meals each day for 2,200-plus passengers and 1,000 crew members. The Magic chef’s shopping list each week includes 18,000 hot dogs, 9,000 hamburgers, 8,000 pounds of chicken plus 5,700 pounds of chicken tenders, and 3,700 pounds of french fries. Diners also consume 1,900 pounds of strip sirloin, 1,600 pounds of shrimp, 1,000 pounds of lobster tail, 1,000 pounds of beef ribeye, 900 pounds of pork ribs and 500 pounds of pork loin. Some 5,000 eggs are served every morning and 2,600 cups of coffee. Disney offers 24-hour availability of soft drinks, and the ship needs 500 gallons of Cocoa Cola syrup, 300 gallons on Diet Coke syrup, among other drinks. This last trip also included, for breakfast, some 280 dozen Krispy Krème donuts ( that’s 3,360 by single count). The ship makes 500,000 gallons of fresh water from seawater every day while cruising. The Magic weighed anchor in three ports on this trip – in Grand Cayman Island, Costa Maya and Cozumel -- and each of the four anchors weighs 14 tons, and the accompanying chain weighs a total of 70 tons. Guests are served by crew members of 62 nationalities. There are 850 staterooms, a total of 5,390 pillows, 50,000 light bulbs, 1,850 phones, etc. This ship carries 2,200 tons of fuel for its five 16-cylinder engines and has a cruising speed of about 25 miles per hour. Built in Italy in 1997, it is about 900 feet long, 105 feet wide, weighs 83,000 tons, and had its inaugural cruise July 30, 1998. It had a monumental refurbishing five years ago. Cruise director Darren McBurney said that the Magic will serve cruisers for a long, long time.

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Keep Business Ethics Front and Center With high profile wrongdoing at Enron, WorldCom, Tyco International, and others still in recent memory — many wonder if ethics still has a role in the business world. The question is even more relevant today, given the languishing economy. It doesn’t require much resolve to do the right things, such as paying suppliers on time and adhering to top-notch quality, when times are booming. But, if you’re short on cash, it can be easy to extend payables past their due date or skimp on quality. It’s in such times that emphasis on business ethics or “the principles of conduct governing an individual or group” is most important. Setting the tone at the top The phrase “tone at the top” is often used to describe both the attitude and actions of a business’s owners and executive manage-

Examining candidates’ values To maintain a culture that values ethics, hire employees who also place a premium on an ethical work environment. A job candidate who values moving up at any cost may come across as an ambitious go-getter. However, if a worker starts cutting corners and fudging results — say, by recording sales before they’re actually completed — he or she will undermine your efforts to foster an ethical corporate culture. Implementing formal policies Owners and managers should regularly discuss workplace ethics with both employees and business partners. There should also be a written policy that outlines the approach to doing business. Putting the policy in black-and-

ment.If top managers emphasize the need to act with integrity, but don’t follow through with their actions, employees will notice. For instance, a company president who stresses honesty, yet asks an employee to backdate a check so it doesn’t clear right away, conveys the message that doing the right thing is less important than achieving a particular result. Such actions can, in turn, prompt employees to act unethically. Consider this: The Ethics Resource Center’s asked participants in a recent study if they’d observed at least one form of a specific misconduct in the previous year. When it came to falsifying time or expense reports, 4% of respondents working in organizations with strong ethical cultures reported such an incident, compared with 19% in companies with weak ethical cultures.

ALAN SANDERSEN... continued on page 59

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Central Chamber launches Fulshear Business Division

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he Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance has approved the launch of the Chamber’s Fulshear Area Business Division. The FABD will be comprised of businesses in the city limits of Fulshear and its immediate surrounding areas. The Division is designed to allow Fulshear-area businesses the opportunity to maintain their own distinct identity while at the same time allowing them the benefits of Chamber affiliation. The Division’s goal will be to increase regional awareness of what the growing Fulshear business community has to offer and to serve the needs of that business community as they arise. “This is an exciting, major development for both the Central Fort Bend Chamber and the City of Fulshear,� said Chamber Member Relations Director Rachelle Kanak, who will be the

Centurion Advisors Corp. offers the following services: • Investment Services • Portfolio management based on your risk assessment • Fee-only variable annuities (no up-front commissions or surrender charges) • 401(k) / 403(b) portfolio management • 401(k) plan development and benchmarking • Comprehensive wealth management Investment Advisory Services offered through Centurion Advisors Corp. Paul B. Jackson, CFA, CIPM President

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Tommy Kuykendall

Cheryl Stalinsky

Chamber’s liaison to the Division. “Working together, we will create a more vibrant commercial climate in an already growing community. The business community has a local, very present advocate in the Chamber, and we are pleased the businesses and the City of Fulshear have been so supportive of this development.� The City of Fulshear first aligned itself with the Central Fort Bend Chamber in August of 2009, when it announced its Stakeholder status the same night the Chamber announced its name change from Rosenberg-Richmond Area Chamber of Commerce to its current title. Fulshear joined Richmond and Rosenberg as Stakeholder cities. “The City of Fulshear was excited this week about the direction the leadership at the CFBCA has taken,� said Fulshear Mayor Tommy Kuykendall. “Since bringing Fulshear in as a Stakeholder and rebranding the Chamber name to be more inclusive about three years ago, we have worked to develop a strong partnership. Fulshear’s business community has grown and has embraced the value the Chamber brings to it. With the board’s creation of the Fulshear Area Business Division, our businesses have more stake and vested interest in their future direction. I applaud the board’s vision and willingness to continually adapt and change to accommodate our rapid growth and needs. I am confident we have a stellar future facing us if we can continue to bring value to the business community we have become known for.� Since 2009, the Chamber has helped the City of Fulshear produce its annual St. Patrick’s Day Celebration and has helped with the promotion of its other annual events. Fulshear Economic Development Director Cheryl Stalinsky has become a linchpin, maintaining the connection between Fulshear and the chamber. She serves on numerous Chamber committees and acts as an advocate for the Chamber to Fulshear-area businesses. “Fulshear is honored to be an integral part of the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance,� Stalinsky said. “I feel our Fulshear Area Business Division, made up of local businesses, will work hard to represent our community. For me, it’s a dream come true.� The FABD becomes the Chamber’s third division. Both the Hispanic Business Division and the Young Professionals Division were created in 2009. For more information about the Fulshear Area Business Division or the Chamber, call 281.342.5464 or visit us online at www.cfbca.org.

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Do you have a lifestyle for sale? - Show it with video With so many businesses taking a hit these days in different parts of the country given the state of the economy, feedback shows that at times they have scaled back to a one person operation. Online tools, especially video, is what they say has helped them stay in business and in the cross hairs of those interested in buying their products. Reports indicate that there are prospective clients not just interested in buying the obvious, but what may also go along with it. That’s what can be had with video. Like for example, let’s take real estate. Showing off a house or a business is one thing, but showing off the features that are a part of the community takes the deal into another level. A business or personal lifestyle is really what’s for sale and it’s visible in next to real life images. What’s it like to live at a certain place?

What’s is like to buy a certain item that can impact other parts of a person’s life? Using short videos posted on sites such as You Tube can give people more than just a clue and what’s more, they can ultimately serve to bump us sales, rentals, interest and more, especially when they’re paired with conventional advertising. When a large business uses video, not much like smaller businesses, there are many factors to be considered. What message will the video express? How will it affect prospective customers? When should the the video be released for maximum impact? All good questions, but the bottom line is that it’s been shown that there’s real value in video. It can be about product demonstrations, and best of all...on demand. With this kind of availability, the demos are free of so much...

there’s no charge, for example, no hassle of having to go to a site, feedback does not feel obligatory, and there’s not even any pressure to buy. No question, a perspective buyer is deliberate about looking for a particular product or service that more than likely is needed. Give us a call at Star Digital Studios. We can make help make your product or service as attractive, interesting and desirable as you want it in a video. We can also make the video a fun, happy experience, if appropriate. The exposure a video has is the potential of global proportion, and a business can virtually end up with customers from all over the world. We’re told one company has over 100 videos on YouTube. These even spurred positive

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STAR Digital

STUDIOS

4655 Techniplex Dr. Suite 500 • Stafford, TX 77477• www.starvideoproductions.com 1RYHPEHU ‡ )RUW %HQG %XVLQHVV -RXUQDO

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT FOR LONE STAR BANNERS AND FLAGS IN STAFFORD

Pam Ludlam-Wight, General Manager; and Mike Tettleton, President and Co-Owner.

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or over 50 years, Lone Star Banners And Flags has been signaling success for Fortune 500 companies, professional sports teams, churches, hospitals, cities, schools and universities around the world. The company’s custom-made products have even orbited the earth with moon-walking astronaut Alan Bean. Founded in 1960, the custom flag supplier was formerly known as ABC Flag Manufacturing Co. Mike Tettleton, President and co-owner, and Mark Buechele, Vice President and co-owner, along with a silent partner, purchased the business in 1993. In 2000, the trio

acquired the woman-owned business, Lone Star Flags & Flagpoles, in Stafford from Pam Ludlam-Wight, President. The two companies, with a combined experience of over 80 years in the flag industry, “sewed up” marketing and products under the single banner, Lone Star Banners And Flags. You don’t have to travel far, though, to see handmade products created by Lone Star Banners And Flags. Just look up! Chances are those flags and banners are attracting attention around Fort Bend. Lone Star Banners And Flags’ credentials are quite impressive. Not only was Lone Star Banners And Flags the sole flag vendor for the 1992 Republican National Convention and the 2004 Super Bowl, but also for the 2006 NBA All Star Game. “What an honor to represent our country during these three significant events that were held in Houston,” says Ludlam-Wight. The Houston Livestock

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Show and Rodeo has also been a loyal customer. One of the memorable and challenging special orders filled was the creation of a red ribbon banner and bow that stretched across the entire length of a downtown building during the Christmas season. Even with high winds, Lone Star’s banner never came loose. Lone Star Banners And Flags has been entrusted to create custom banners as far away as Disney in Europe. “No job is too far or too difficult for us,” says Ludlam-Wight. The concept of using flags and banners to market a product or broadcast a message has been around for thousands of years. Lone Star Banners And Flags’ awardwinning designs, commitment to quality craftsmanship and dedication to customer service have taken the ancient form of advertising to new heights. Improved technology and higher-grade materials are helping the company’s products endure harsh weather for longer periods of time. Advertorial

Mike Tettleton, President and Co-Owner.

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

Advertorial

“We’re really blessed to be in a community that has so much going for it when so many cities are really hurting,” Ludlam-Wight commented. “We’re lucky to have Skeeters’ home in Sugar Land and The Fort Bend County Fair and Rodeo. We’ve been blessed with the Cities of Sugar Land, Missouri City, Richmond and Stafford, Fort Bend ISD, all who have been loyal customers of ours,” Ludlam-Wight continued. “When Lone Star started manufacturing, about 80 percent of its business was making custom, American and Texas flags, still the Nos. 1 and 2 topselling flags, respectively,” Tettleton said. Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Election Day and Veterans Day are still the peak flag-flying times. “Yet once school starts in the fall, sports boost our sales,” Ludlam-Wight explained, “with spirit flags and pennants leading the way.” The company not only caters to businesses across Fort Bend but also works closely with the general public. “We are already having customers coming in and completing their Christmas lists by purchasing flags for their family, friends and clients. We are seeing a strong patriotic commitment to our country,” Ludlam-Wight explained. After Sept. 11, 2001, “Both locations (in Stafford and Fort Worth)

had people lined up at our door on Sept. 12,” Ludlam-Wight recalled. “We sold our entire stock of American flags in a few hours and had a lengthy waiting list. There was a renewed interest of patriotism for our country, as people became more aware of our business. This is what had previously happened when we were at war in the Persian Gulf so we were already prepared,” Ludlam-Wight explained. “From creation to installation,” Ludlam-Wight continued, “the company, tagged ‘the flag people,’ will produce any size custom flag or banner for any occasion, large or small, and for any business needing to spread the word.” Not only is Lone Star Banners And Flags a full-service banner and flag company ready to tackle any job near and far but they are proud that they are a Texas-based company. Lone Star’s coowners believe in keeping jobs here and standing behind their products. Lone Star’s customers appreciate that it has stayed a US-based company and that all of its employees work here while helping out a tough economy. “A loyal patriotic philosophy,” one may ask? “Yes, we are deeply patriotic and offer a passionate commitment to serving this great community,” Ludlam-Wight warmly confirmed as she smiled and her eyes twinkled. Lone Star Banners And Flags 13110 Mula Ct., Suite A Stafford, Texas 77477 281-495-2900 www.LoneStarBannersAndFlags.com

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Hiring deaf workers can help grow a company Tips for blending hearing, non-hearing workforce

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here are myriad benefits to companies that hire disabled people, from gaining excellent problem-solvers with aboveaverage attendance and productivity records, to earning federal tax credits. “Unfortunately, too many companies worry that the benefits will be offset by the costs to accommodate those employees – not true, by the way,” says Sean Belanger, CEO of CSDVRS, the parent company of Stratus Video (www. stratusvideo.com), which provides On-Demand Interpreting to hospitals, and ZVRS video phone service for the deaf. While unemployment is just more than 7 percent nationally, it was 13.5 percent as of September for disabled workers, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. “At Stratus Video, 68 percent of our employees who don’t work as interpreters are deaf or hard of hearing,” Belanger says. “All of our 250-plus contractors across the country are deaf, and three of our eight company vice presidents are deaf. We’ve grown to more than $50 million in revenue and we were recently named to the Inc. 5000 list of top Tampa-metro area businesses. Thanks in large part to our diverse workforce.” Integrating Stratus Video’s hearing and non-hearing employees involved facilitating communication, which wasn’t difficult, Belanger concedes, given that’s the company’s specialty: • In-house trainers teach the hearing employees American Sign Language. • Each employee has access to a video phone and video software so all can

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communicate both visually and vocally. • The company’s Human Resources department found coverage for hearing aids and cochlear implants, not covered by insurance, to ease communication for hard-of-hearing employees. Benefits to the company have been numerous, Belanger says. His deaf employees are committed, engaged and come up with solutions to problems based on insights unique to their experience. A U.S. Department of Education study supports that assessment. It found that disabled employees in general are average or above average in performance, quality and quantity of work, flexibility and attendance. “If that’s not enough, companies that hire disabled people can also qualify for federal tax benefits,” Belanger adds. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act, a disabled person is defined for work purposes as someone who is deaf or has serious difficulty hearing; blind or has serious difficulty seeing even when wearing glasses; has serious difficulty concentrating, making decisions or doing errands alone because of a physical or mental condition; serious difficulty walking or climbing stairs; or difficulty dressing. Among the tax incentives are the Work Opportunity Credit; the Disabled Access Credit; and the Architectural Barrier Removal Credit. In addition, the Wounded Warrior Tax Credit offers incentives for hiring vets with serviceconnected disabilities. You can find out how much your company may qualify by using the Hire Gauge, a free tool at ThinkBeyondtheLabel.com.

The Victorian is an Island Favorite for Church Retreats and Reunions. Meeting Spaces Available for all Group Sizes. Ask about our special church rates. Contact Karen Allen, kallen@viccondo.com

6300 Seawall U Galveston U TX U victoriancondo.com www.facebook.com/galvestonvictorian UÊ866.204.8287 Rates based on availability and not valid holiday and special event weekends or with any other discount.

THIS IS ONE OF MANY VICTORIAN SPECIALS, CALL TODAY FOR DETAILS. 1RYHPEHU )RUW %HQG %XVLQHVV -RXUQDO

COVER STORY

with David Jeyaraj, M.D.

Texas Age Management Institute sets the pace to improving the aging process

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ant to live your best life now? At the Texas Age Management Institute, the physicians and staff are specifically trained in age management to help you restore your former youthful levels of health. The typical routine medical exams, and generic programs based on gender, age, or body-type, are simply inadequate to meet the specific needs of an individual for maintaining optimum health. The Texas Age Management Institute provides you a program that is individualized, comprehensive, evidence-based and scientifically-proven to provide effective, predictable results. Take control of your aging process • Do you have age-related diseases? (Hypertension, Type 2 Diabetes, High Cholestrol and Arthritis are common examples). • Are you dissatisfied with your level of health? Are you weaker, slower, heavier than you know you ought to be? Do you need a caffeine boost just to get through the day? • Is it taking you longer to remember things, or are you suffering from the occasional “mental fog?” • Are you starting to get stiff, inflamed, or painful joints? Slight hearing loss and visual impairment? • Are your reflexes and coordination not what they used to be? If you answered yes to any of these questions, TAMI can help you. Aging is inevitable, weakness and decrepitude are not. Youthful Aging Imagine feeling as strong and agile as you did in your 20’s. Sleep as well as you did then. Have the same endurance and flexibility as

you did in college. This is possible. Aging does NOT have to mean atrophy, senescence, and obsolescence. Specific diseases related to aging, like arthritis, cataracts, osteoporosis, Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, Alzheimer’s, none of these is inevitable. You can take steps to prevent and combat, even reverse, some of these agingassociated diseases. TAMI’s Comprehensive Age Management Program Many of us over the age of forty are familiar with aging and its symptoms- low energy, fatigue, decreased libido, changes in the body – expanding girth, weakening of the body and increased susceptibility to chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, stroke, dementia and cancer. The Texas Age Management Institute Comprehensive Age Management Program is a physician-directed medical program designed and scientifically-proven to restore your body back to the prime of youth. Overview: The program begins with comprehensive diagnostic testing: Strength, balance, stress EKG, oxygen uptake, and cognitive testing, as well as a DEXA scan to determine your body composition and bone density. We do extensive blood testing for all your hormonal levels. The program is generally composed of the following components: Hormone Optimization As we age, we experience a decline in our hormone levels: the sex hormones testosterone, estrogen and progesterone, thyroid hormones, adrenal hormones, pituitary hormones, melatonin and growth hormone.

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continues....

Texas Age Management Institute (l-r) Phillip Adrews, Carmina Catalan and Dr. David Jeyaraj.

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We conduct extensive blood testing for all your hormonal levels, and when medically indicated, we will supplement and balance out your hormonal profile to achieve levels found in youth. We use only bio-identical hormones. Bio-identical hormones are identical to the body’s own and are recognized as such by the body. Synthetic hormones are recognized as different by the body. Hormone optimization with bio-identical hormones is safe, and actually reduces your risk of developing degenerative diseases, and in some cases,and even reverse them. Nutritional Supplementation All of us need nutritional supplements because the food we eat these days are nutritionally depleted, and we are exposed to a lot of toxins in our diet and the environment. We need high quality nutritional supplements to counteract the effects of toxins. Under our Comprehensive Age Management Program, we first determine through blood analyses what your body requires for optimum nutrition, and will provide you with pharmaceutical grade vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids and antioxidants in an individually tailored supplementation package unique to each person. Personalized Nutrition Plan The TAMI nutritional program will slow down the aging process. We will teach you how to eat and the science behind it. It is not a diet. There is no calorie counting. You will eat well and often. Some foods have to be avoided and other foods have to be taken in the right proportion. As long as you follow the principles of the nutritional program, you will remain in optimal health. If you need, we can provide pre-cooked meals for you. Physical Activity Physical activity is essential for muscle maintenance and development, as well as physical and mental functioning. It increases metabolic rates, lowers the risk of heart disease, and improves posture. A conditioning program which includes weight resistance, cardiovascular activity, and flexibility training will be individually designed for your specific needs, and a trainer will work with you oneon-one to make sure you are on track with

your program goals. The Comprehensive Physical After signing up to be a patient at TAMI, you will receive a call from our phlebotomist to schedule an appointment for a blood draw early morning at your home, after a 12-hour fast. A week after the blood draw, you will arrive for a morning appointment at our office dressed in gym attire. We shall conduct the following tests: 1. Blood pressure, weight and waist circumference measurement 2. Whole body Dexa Scan – for Bone Density and body fat analysis. 3. Resting Oxygen uptake and resting EKG. 4. Maximal Oxygen uptake and stress EKG testing on a bicycle ergometer. 5. CNS vital signs- Tests of memory, attention and cognition. 6. Doppler-Ankle Brachial Index measurement. 7. Carotid Ultrasound- Measurement of Carotid artery Intimal thickness. 8. Ultrasound of Abdomen and pelvis. 9. Strength, handgrip, flexibility and coordination testing by a personal trainer, who will consult with you to design a customized work out plan. You then break for a healthy lunch catered by us. The results of the tests from this appointment will be immediately available, and you will have a three-hour meeting with a doctor. He will go over the lab results with you, talk to you about the right type of nutrition your body needs and perform a complete physical examination. Based on the collected information, he will design a supplementation and bio-identical hormone replacement program for you. Why an Age management program? People who use this program are mostly doctors and their families. They are uniquely exposed to and are aware of the advances in modern medicine that make it possible to extend youthful vitality and optimum health, and aging no longer has to mean atrophy, senescence, or obsolescence. This science is available to you. No one pill can “cure” aging. However, with a comprehensive, intelligent,

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individualized approach targeting the individual’s specific age-related condition, you can reverse some of the physiological damage on the cellular level, prevent or minimize future damage in specific areas, and restore your vitality. Generally speaking, people can gain some success in getting healthy by eating right and exercising. It’s better than doing nothing. However, in order to achieve optimal health, a working knowledge of the science of healthy eating and the right exercises is needed until it becomes a practiced routine. All you need is a physician trained in age management to figure out, based on extensive tests, the right supplements and hormones for you. You need the physician to monitor your program too. Think of it this way. If you own an expensive sports car, you would see to it that it is maintained well. Your body is a priceless asset, infinitely more valuable than a Ferrari and it deserves the best maintenance possible. Meet David Jeyaraj, M.D. Dr. Jeyaraj is board certified in Internal Medicine and has been in practice for 14 years. When he faced a personal health crisis, he at first turned to conventional medicine. He exercised, ate right, took his medications regularly. His medical conditions were controlled at a cost. The cost was feeling tired and achy all the time, poor quality of sleep, decreased libido and depression. After doing some research, he enrolled in an age management program as a patient and followed the program. The results were gratifying. In just 2 short weeks, his energy came back to the level when he was in his 20s. His other symptoms disappeared too. He takes less than a quarter of the number of medications he once took. It was an epiphany. If this program worked for him, it could work for countless others who feel as he once did. So, he transitioned from conventional medicine to full time age management medicine. Dr Jeyaraj is certified in age management by Cenegenics Institute, Las Vegas and is a member of the Age Management Medicine Group.Texas Age Management Institute is located at 10101 Southwest Freeway, Suite 205. Contact us: Tel: 713.271-0705 • info@ texasami.com • www.texasami.com.

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Katy ISD: A collective commitment to succeed From (l-r) student John Liner, Katy ISD superintendent Alton Frailey, and parent and volunteer Kym Pratt.

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ell into a new school year, Katy Independent School District gets high marks for last year’s achievements, which are envied by most school districts throughout the country. KISD Superintendent Alton Frailey is in his sixth year and gave a stirring 90-minute State of the District report last month. Frailey’s power point and film presentation was highlighted by testimonies from a student senior, and also from a dedicated parent who was one of some 16,975 volunteers who served the district in 2011. John Liner, president of Cinco Ranch High School’s student body, captain of his school’s football team, and a musician, traced his 12 years in the district, and expressed his appreciation for all of the opportunities which have been afforded him. John is a four-year member of the Student Round Table, a defensive end in football, and a trumpet player, who hopes to pursue a career in music in college and beyond. Kym Pratt, who graduated from Taylor High School and the University of Houston, stated that she could have chosen to live “anywhere in the world,� and she and her husband have reared their children in Katy ISD. Kym noted that parents and students “come here on purpose.� Frailey said that many of the district’s achievements were because of his “secret sauce.� “It’s all of our wonderful volunteers,� he smiled.

KATY ISD STAFF STATISTICS Total staff .............................................................................................7,315 Teachers ...............................................................................................2,860 Professional support personnel ............................................................ 582 Administrators......................................................................................... 212 Support staff ........................................................................................2,660 Teachers with advanced degrees .................................................... 23.5% Average years of teaching experience ................................................ 11.8 Percentage of teachers with more than 10 years experience.......... 47% Average 2011-12 teacher salary ....................................................$51,144 Average students per teacher .............................................................. 16.2

The volunteers donated their time – a total of 768,821 hours -- as business partners, mentors, and also as counselors in Junior Achievement, in addition to the Partners in Education Promise to Read program which touched 365 classrooms in 10 campuses. Frailey cited a lot of achievements from last year: • Some 4,085 students graduated from the district’s six high schools, earning more than $21.3 million in scholarships. • 18 students won scholarships from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation • 8 seniors have been listed as candidates for the U.S. Department of Education’s 2012 Presidential Scholars Program • 51 students were named semifinalists in the National Merit Scholarship Program • 2 students were among 700 in the nation to win a National Achievement $2,500 scholarship from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation • Katy ISD students met all 35 indicators for Adequately Yearly Progress under No Child Left Behind

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• 13 campuses named Higher Performing Schools by the National Center for Educational Excellence • Katy ISD named one of the “Best Communities for Music Education in 2011â€? by the NAMM Foundation • Three campuses named to the Texas Business & Education Coalition’s (TBEC) 2011 Honor Roll • Diane Winborn Elementary was among 13 public schools in Texas to receive the “High Performing Schoolsâ€? nomination for the 2012 National Blue Ribbon Schools recognition Frailey cited the Alliance for Excellent Education’s estimates of the impact of the Katy ISD 2012 class on the community: • They’ll collectively earn as much as $60 more in an average year • By midpoint in their career they’re likely to purchase homes totaling $87 million more • They’re likely to spend an additional $3.2 million on vehicles in an average year • Spending and investments combined likely will be enough to support 360 new jobs in the Greater Houston area

• They’ll probably increase federal, state and local revenues by $13 million in an average year The district’s students continue to rate higher on SAT scores than national and state averages in all areas tested – critical reading, math and writing. Frailey lauded the Katy ISD Future Farmers of America (FFA) students for their part in the Greater Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo last year. There were 475 projects last year which gained revenues of $609,565, compared to 457 projects the previous year and $499,216. The superintendent noted that the current proposed budget is up some $30 million to $583,107,706, as the district’s total enrollment is at 64,216, an increase of 1,815 more than in 2011-12. This increase was only 157 students more than the district’s projection. There are 57 schools: 35 elementary, 13 junior highs and 6 high schools. The student profile: white 42.05%, Hispanic 34.56%, black 9.49%, Asian 11.11% and Native American .24%. General revenues: local 53.8%, state 44.4% and federal 2.1%. The district’s tax base is $21.9 billion, with a general fund tax rate of $1.1266 per $100 valuation and the debt service tax rate of 40 cents per $100 valuation. Frailey noted that the tax rate has held steady since the 2006-07 school year when it was $1.485 per $100 valuation. Frailey recognized all of the 7,315 member Katy ISD staff. He said that the “collective commitment” in the community has contributed to the district’s successes. He cited parent organizations, student organizations, professional associations, civic organizations, youth sport programs, booster clubs, parents, grandparents, businesses and visitors. He asked rhetorically, How do we want to be viewed? “As the happiest place on earth to be.” Frailey said, “As I reflect on the 2011-12 school year, I see that the year was filled with hundreds of unparalleled learning experiences that we know about, and thousands that perhaps went unnoticed except to those who were directly impacted by them. Regardless of how large or small, they each played a part in making last year one of our most successful ever.”

Baker Hughes announces September 2012 rig counts aker Hughes Incorporated (NYSE:BHI) has released the international rig count for September 2012 was 1,254, down 7 from the 1,261 counted in August 2012, and up 80 from the 1,174 counted in September 2011. The international offshore rig count for September 2012 was 293, down 7 from the 300 counted in August 2012 and down 11 from the 304 counted in September 2011. The average U.S. rig count for

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September 2012 was 1,859, down 54 from the 1,913 counted in August 2012 and down 119 from the 1,978 counted in September 2011. The average Canadian rig count for September 2012 was 356, up 40 from the 316 counted in August 2012 and down 154 from the 510 counted in September 2011. The worldwide rig count for September 2012 was 3,469, down 21 from the 3,490 counted in August 2012 and down 193 from the 3,662 counted in September 2011.

About the Baker Hughes Rig Counts The Baker Hughes Rotary Rig Counts are counts of the number of drilling rigs actively exploring for or developing oil or natural gas in the United States, Canada and international markets. Baker Hughes has issued the rotary rig counts as a service to the petroleum industry since 1944, when Hughes Tool Company began weekly counts of US and Canadian drilling activity. Baker Hughes initiated the monthly international rig count in 1975. North American rig count data is scheduled to be released at noon central time on the last working day of each week. The international

rig count is scheduled to be released on the 5th working day of the month. Additional detailed information on the Baker Hughes rig counts is available from our website. Baker Hughes is a leading supplier of oilfield services, products, technology and systems to the worldwide oil and natural gas industry. The company’s 58,000-plus employees today work in more than 80 countries helping customers find, evaluate, drill, produce, transport and process hydrocarbon resources. For more information on Baker Hughes’ century-long history, visit www.bakerhughes.com.

SEPTEMBER 2012 ROTARY RIG COUNTS September 2012 EUROPE MIDDLE EAST*

Land

OS

Total

78

46

124

336

45

August 2012 Variance

September 2011

Land

OS

Total

Land

OS

Total

6

71

47

118

74

46

120

381

-7

341

47

388

255

37

292

84

24

108

-3

80

31

111

52

26

78

LATIN AMERICA

331

80

411

-6

337

80

417

341

91

432

ASIA PACIFIC

132

98

230

3

132

95

227

148 104

252

INTERNATIONAL

961 293 1,254

-7

961 300 1,261

870 304

1,174

AFRICA

UNITED STATES CANADA

1,808 355

51 1,859 1

-54

1,863

356

40

315

50 1,913 1,946

32

1,978

509

1

510

51 2,229 2,455

1

316

N. AMERICA

2,163

52 2,215

-14

2,178

33

2,488

WORLDWIDE

3,124 345 3,469

-21

3,139 351 3,490 3,325 337

3,662

* Middle East rig count for September 2011 does not include Iraq

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)257 %(1' 33rd Annual Fort Bend County Bar Association Golf Tournament Thursday, October 11 • Meadowbrook Farms Golf Club Benefiting the Fort Bend Lawyers Care, the County’s First and Only Pro Bono Legal Service

Darren Ravey, Larry Foster, Lonnie Foster and Johnny Walker having a great time at the tourny!

Hon. Jeff McMeans, Hon. Gary Janssen, Daniel Garcia and Wes Linnenbank.

Matias Adrogue, Steve Minor, Trey Witte and Stephan Kaase, enjoying their cigars.

Clarence Dettling, Oscar Pedraza, Jerry Bussell and Jay Woodard.

Hon. Jim Shoemake, Hon. Walter Armatys, Jeff Pope (who won closest to the pin and longest drive) and Hon. Ron Pope.

Brent Carpenter, Paul Romano, Robbins and Phil Klosowsky.

$10K Presentation Check from the golf fundraiser to the FB Lawyers Care, a pro bono legal service, with Melinda Knight, Will Colgin and Joshua Leal (both co-chairs of the tournament).

Lowest Score 1st Place Winning Team with a 54 golf score: Scott Divers, Danny Hoke, Jim Adams and Alton Fuller, with Mario Martinez in the background.

2nd Place Winning Team with a golf score of 56: Bill Kee, Trey Henderson, Keval Patel and Andreas Jones, with Mario Martinez who is the FB County Bar President.

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The Sweet Boutique bakery brings favorite specialties to Sugar Land and Katy

in the Sugar Land Town Square

281.302.5374 2270 Lone Star Dr. Sugar Land, TX 77479

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he Sweet Boutique bakery is a recipe of love and devotion. What originally stirred interest as a hobby developed into prime retail locations at 2270 Lone Star in Sugar Land Town Square and soon-to-be at 23501 Cinco Ranch, Suite R100, in Katy. Our shops continue to serve the community by providing thousands of delicious and breathtaking sweets to its many patrons daily. Baking is what we love and it shows in our creations. Our founder and owner, Christine Nguyen, is a self-taught baker and cake designer. She creates irresistible cupcakes, cookies, cake pops and other baked goodies but her true passion in designing amazing cakes. A true artist at heart, she has an eye for perfection. The greatest satisfaction she receives in creating a cake or an irresistible confection is the excitement and happiness it brings to the person who receives it. Whether it’s for a wedding, birthday, anniversary, shower, other special occasion, or just because someone wants to enjoy the taste, designing cakes is about making people smile. Other companies may offer similar services, but our services come with a personal touch. You can reach Sweet Boutique, Sugar Land, by phone at 281-302-5374, by email at: info@tsbcakes.com or visit our website at www.tsbcakes.com.

info@tsbcakes.com www.tsbcakes.com

• Custom Cakes • Cupcakes • French Macarons • Cake pops

$3 OFF your purchase of $6 or more From your friends at The Sweet Boutique

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BUY A $50 GIFT CARD AND RECEIVE A $10 BONUS HOURS: Sun-Thurs 11-10pm • Fri & Sat 11-11pm • Happy Hour 11-7pm • FREE Mini Buffet 4-7pm

3 GREAT LOCATIONS Stafford • 281.240.3060

South Belt • 281.484.688

NASA • 281.557.3500

12821 SOUTHWEST FRWY.

12933 GULF FREEWAY

1020 NASA RD. 1 @ 45

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Global leaders Champion Technologies and Ecolab, Inc. announce agreement to merge

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ermian Mud Service, Inc., whose principal operating companies include Champion Technologies and CorsiTech, has announced that it has entered into a definitive merger agreement to be acquired by Ecolab (NYSE: ECL). Champion Technologies and CorsiTech are leading suppliers of specialty oilfield chemistry and related services with outstanding reputations in the industry for customer service and technology innovation. The combined Champion and CorsiTech businesses, which generated more than US$1.2 billion of pro forma revenue in 2011, are headquartered in Houston, Texas and employ more than 3,300 people globally. The closing of the transaction, which is subject to conditions including the receipt of governmental and regulatory approvals, is expected in the fourth quarter of 2012. “Ecolab and its wholly owned subsidiary Nalco Energy Services share our entrepreneurial spirit, customer focus, and commitment to developing talented, innovative people. While we have similar expertise, our customers, geographic focus, technology, and products complement one another,” said Steve Lindley, Chairman, Champion Technologies and President, CorsiTech. “Ecolab has made a proven investment in our core market through last year’s acquisition of Nalco Energy Services. By merging our businesses with Nalco, we will have the expanded technology, service capability, financial resources and infrastructure we need to grow and support our customers in the fast growing oilfield chemical industry.” Douglas M. Baker, Jr., Ecolab’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer commented on the announcement, saying, “This transaction represents a rare opportunity to build on our position in a fast-growing market by improving our geographic coverage and technology offerings. As a premier

company and proven innovator committed to delivering outstanding technology and service, Champion represents a very attractive business that opportunistically became available, enabling us to acquire an outstanding operator. Champion’s technology and product strengths in the U.S. and Canada are very complementary to our innovative technology and services in the offshore and international energy markets. We are excited by the additional solutions we will be able to bring to our customers and the strong growth potential this opportunity offers for our combined operations as we continue to target the “new energy” opportunities which require significantly more of the products and services that both we and Champion provide.” Tudor, Pickering, Holt & Co. and Lazard Ltd. are serving as financial advisors to Permian Mud Service, Inc. in the transaction. About Champion Technologies and CorsiTech Champion Technologies and CorsiTech are privately held global specialty chemical companies with more than 3,300 employees in over 100 locations in more than 50 countries delivering innovative and engineered programs for drilling, upstream,

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midstream, and downstream oil and gas markets. Our integrated offerings combine sustainable chemistry, technology, and service to enhance your world. http://www. champ-tech.com, http://www.corsitech.net About Nalco Energy Services Ecolab merged with Nalco Holding Company in 2011, including the acquisition of Nalco’s Energy Services division, which provides on-site, technology-driven solutions to the global natural gas, petroleum and petrochemical industries. In addition to recovery, production and process enhancements, Nalco also delivers a full range of water treatment offerings to refineries and petrochemical plants. http://www.nalco.com About Ecolab St. Paul, Minnesota-based Ecolab Inc., a publicly held company (NYSE: ECL) with 2011 pro forma sales of $11 billion and more than 40,000 employees, is the global leader in water, hygiene and energy technologies and services that provide and protect clean water, safe food, abundant energy and healthy environments. Ecolab delivers comprehensive programs and services to the food, energy, healthcare, industrial and hospitality markets in more than 160 countries. http://www.ecolab.com.

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

QUAIL VALLEY GOLF COURSE November 5th, 2012

For more information contact Jan-Michael Jenkins at 281-491-0218 or jan@fortbendcc.org

,%')3,!4)6% 50$!4% $EVELOPMENTS IN (EALTHCARE 0OLICIES

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Whataburger Jennifer Osowski, 832-396-9695 Archi*Technics/3, Inc. Christus Powell, 713-868-0088

Andreason Law Firm, PLCC Kurt Andreason, 281-265-1561

The Wadhawan Law Firm Manik Wadhawan, 713-777-5891

ABWA Tiffany Pace, 281-835-9789

Nique Dental, PLLC Aaron Barnes, 281-565-0808

Primrose School of First Colony Lorrie Clark, 281-565-2707

Always Best Care Senior Service Chris Jones, 281-392-1222

6 Years

2 Years

Lippke Cartwright & Roberts Inc. Scott Maham, 713-800-5309

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Edward Jones Peter Horton, 281-491-0244 IronStone Realty Advisors Barkley Peschel, 281-242-2300 Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Mu Kappa Omega Chapter Tara McDowell, 832-563-0424

H. Bradley Whatley, PC Brad Whatley, 281-494-8200

7 Years

The Fort Bend Church Sonya Stevenson, 281-980-8322 Prudential Gary Greene, Realtors Debbie Marcell, 281-782-2102 Trustmark National Bank Angel Pena, 281-637-4000

9 Years

3 Years

Frederick P. Forlano, Attorney at Law Frederick Forlano, 713-621-6611

4 Years

Allen Boone Humphries Robinson LLP Jim Boone, 713-860-6404

Brazos Valley Credit Union Anna Warren, 281-238-9336

4PSLZ[VUL 4LTILY 10 Years

McGrath & Co., PLLC Mark McGrath, 713-882-6572 Brazos Valley Credit Union Pat Wleczyk, 281-342-8245

Skeeter’s Mesquite Grill Ciro Arriaga, 281-980-0066

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

4PSLZ[VUL 4LTILY 5 Years

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Chamberlain, Hrdlicka Lawrence Sherlock, 713-654-9622 TREK Janet Redeker, 713-965-1711

13 Years

RG Miller Engineers, Inc. Andrew Paderange, 713-461-9600

En-Touch Systems, Inc. Cindy Baca, 281-225-1000 Huitt-Zollars, Inc. Gregory Wine PE, LEED AP, 281-496-0066

14 Years

Denny’s Raymond Sewell, 281-208-2231

4PSLZ[VUL 4LTILY 15 Years

Fort Bend County John Healey, 281-341-4473 George Ranch Historical Park Candace Jones, 281-343-0218 Quail Valley Church Curry Juneau, 281-499-0594 Lamar CISD Christy Willman, 832-223-0332 AAA Texas, LLC John Butler, 713-284-6494

16 Years

Rosenberg-Richmond Helping Hands, Inc. Nancy Comerford Brown, 281-341-7536

17 Years

MetroBank, NA Mohammad Tariq, 281-565-7766

4PSLZ[VUL 4LTILY 20 Years Spirit Sand & Clay LLC Kyle Cain, 281-277-5404

Hrbacek &Gandhi, PC Dean Hrbacek, 281-240-2424

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Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

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

21 Years

Fort Bend ISD Nancy Porter, 281-634-1102

22 Years

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Literacy Council of Fort Bend County Brenda Bowman, 281-240-8181

23 Years

Fitts, Roberts & Co., PC R. Kay Parker, CPA, CFP, 713-260-5230 Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels Manuela Arroyos, 281-633-7055 The Swinging Door Steven Onstad, 281-342-4758 State Farm Insurance Richard Stegall, 281-491-1111

24 Years

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

5V]LTILY 2012 Fort Bend Chamber Challenge

Network Nites:

Sugar Land Surgical

November 5, 2012 8:00 am – 4:00 pm Quail Valley Golf Course 2880 La Quinta Dr., Missouri City

November 15, 2012 • 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm Sugar Land Surgical 1211 Highway 6 South, Ste. 70, Sugar Land

Chamber Young Professionals:

Business and Professional:

Cashing in on Your Website Visibility

Lunch with Leaders

November 6, 2012 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd., Sugar Land Healthcare Division:

November 28, 2012 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd., Sugar Land

Legislative Update

Seasonal Celebration

November 14 , 2012 • 12:30 pm– 2:00 pm Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd., Sugar Land

November 30, 2012 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Sweetwater Country Club 4400 Palm Royale Blvd., Sugar Land

26 Years

EPCO, Inc-Seminole Pipeline Ralph Winkler, 281-325-3200

+LJLTILY Community Resources Division Children at Risk:

Jones and Carter, Inc. Clayton Black, 713-777-5337

27 Years

Stafford Municipal School District Lance Hindt, 281-261-9236

29 Years

John M. Thomas, PC John Thomas, 713-201-9905

31 Years

Fluor Corporation Jim Wilkins, 281-263-1000

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Legislative Priorities

December 11, 2012 • 8:00 am – 10:00 am Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd., Sugar Land

1HU\HY` Community Resources Division Children at Risk:

Chairman’s Gala January 25, 2012 Safari Texas Ranch 11627 FM 1464, Richmond, TX

Future of Fort Bend’s Children Conference

January 29, 2013 7:30 am – 1:00 pm Safari Texas Ranch 11627 FM 1464, Richmond

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Whataburger Jennifer Osowski, 832-396-9695 Archi*Technics/3, Inc. Christus Powell, 713-868-0088

Andreason Law Firm, PLCC Kurt Andreason, 281-265-1561

The Wadhawan Law Firm Manik Wadhawan, 713-777-5891

ABWA Tiffany Pace, 281-835-9789

Nique Dental, PLLC Aaron Barnes, 281-565-0808

Primrose School of First Colony Lorrie Clark, 281-565-2707

Always Best Care Senior Service Chris Jones, 281-392-1222

6 Years

2 Years

Lippke Cartwright & Roberts Inc. Scott Maham, 713-800-5309 Edward Jones Peter Horton, 281-491-0244

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

4PSLZ[VUL 4LTILY 5 Years

IronStone Realty Advisors Barkley Peschel, 281-242-2300 Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Mu Kappa Omega Chapter Tara McDowell, 832-563-0424

H. Bradley Whatley, PC Brad Whatley, 281-494-8200

7 Years

The Fort Bend Church Sonya Stevenson, 281-980-8322 Prudential Gary Greene, Realtors Debbie Marcell, 281-782-2102 Trustmark National Bank Angel Pena, 281-637-4000

9 Years

3 Years

Frederick P. Forlano, Attorney at Law Frederick Forlano, 713-621-6611

4 Years

Allen Boone Humphries Robinson LLP Jim Boone, 713-860-6404

McGrath & Co., PLLC Mark McGrath, 713-882-6572 Brazos Valley Credit Union Pat Wleczyk, 281-342-8245 Brazos Valley Credit Union Anna Warren, 281-238-9336 Skeeter’s Mesquite Grill Ciro Arriaga, 281-980-0066

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

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4PSLZ[VUL 4LTILY 10 Years Chamberlain, Hrdlicka Lawrence Sherlock, 713-654-9622 TREK Janet Redeker, 713-965-1711

13 Years

RG Miller Engineers, Inc. Andrew Paderange, 713-461-9600

En-Touch Systems, Inc. Cindy Baca, 281-225-1000 Huitt-Zollars, Inc. Gregory Wine PE, LEED AP, 281-496-0066

14 Years

Denny’s Raymond Sewell, 281-208-2231

4PSLZ[VUL 4LTILY 15 Years

Fort Bend County John Healey, 281-341-4473 George Ranch Historical Park Candace Jones, 281-343-0218 Quail Valley Church Curry Juneau, 281-499-0594 Lamar CISD Christy Willman, 832-223-0332 AAA Texas, LLC John Butler, 713-284-6494

16 Years

Rosenberg-Richmond Helping Hands, Inc. Nancy Comerford Brown, 281-341-7536

17 Years

MetroBank, NA Mohammad Tariq, 281-565-7766

4PSLZ[VUL 4LTILY 20 Years Spirit Sand & Clay LLC Kyle Cain, 281-277-5404

Hrbacek &Gandhi, PC Dean Hrbacek, 281-240-2424

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Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

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

21 Years

Fort Bend ISD Nancy Porter, 281-634-1102

22 Years

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Literacy Council of Fort Bend County Brenda Bowman, 281-240-8181

23 Years

Fitts, Roberts & Co., PC R. Kay Parker, CPA, CFP, 713-260-5230 Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels Manuela Arroyos, 281-633-7055 The Swinging Door Steven Onstad, 281-342-4758 State Farm Insurance Richard Stegall, 281-491-1111

24 Years

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

26 Years

5V]LTILY 2012 Fort Bend Chamber Challenge November 5, 2012 8:00 am – 4:00 pm Quail Valley Golf Course 2880 La Quinta Dr., Missouri City

November 15, 2012 • 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm Sugar Land Surgical 1211 Highway 6 South, Ste. 70, Sugar Land

Chamber Young Professionals:

Business and Professional:

November 6, 2012 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd., Sugar Land Healthcare Division:

29 Years

John M. Thomas, PC John Thomas, 713-201-9905

31 Years

Fluor Corporation Jim Wilkins, 281-263-1000

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November 28, 2012 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd., Sugar Land

Legislative Update

Seasonal Celebration

November 14 , 2012 • 12:30 pm– 2:00 pm Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd., Sugar Land

November 30, 2012 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Sweetwater Country Club 4400 Palm Royale Blvd., Sugar Land

+LJLTILY Community Resources Division Children at Risk:

Jones and Carter, Inc. Clayton Black, 713-777-5337 Stafford Municipal School District Lance Hindt, 281-261-9236

Cashing in on Your Website Visibility

Lunch with Leaders

EPCO, Inc-Seminole Pipeline Ralph Winkler, 281-325-3200

27 Years

Network Nites:

Sugar Land Surgical

Legislative Priorities

December 11, 2012 • 8:00 am – 10:00 am Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd., Sugar Land

1HU\HY` Community Resources Division Children at Risk:

Chairman’s Gala January 25, 2012 Safari Texas Ranch 11627 FM 1464, Richmond, TX

Future of Fort Bend’s Children Conference

January 29, 2013 7:30 am – 1:00 pm Safari Texas Ranch 11627 FM 1464, Richmond

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Ribbon Cuttings

Harmony School of Science 13522 West Airport Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-265-2525 www.hsshouston.org

SL Modern Dentistry

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

19984 SW Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77479 832-595-2100 www.sugarlandmoderndentistry.com

Regus

Three Sugar Creek Center, Ste. 100 Sugar Land, TX 77478 832-335-5574 www.regus.com

Pro Pharmacy Health, Inc. 14021 SW Freeway, Ste. 409B Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-491-0767

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Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

www.FortBendChamber.com

The Children’s Place 12642 Fountain Lakes Cr. Stafford, TX 77477 201-453-6925 www.childrensplace.com

Longhorn Steakhouse 16746 SW Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-240-1018 www.longhornsteakhouse.com

Si Environmental 3420 Reading Rd. Rosenberg, TX 77471 832-490-1506 www.sienv.com

George E. Johnson Development Center 2700 Lake Olympia Blvd. Missouri City, TX 77459 713-721-5555 www.georgejohnsondev.com

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Ribbon Cutting

All About Cakes

13134 Dairy Ashford, Ste. 300 Sugar Land, TX 77478 832-532-7034 www.all-aboutcakes.com

Murphy’s Deli

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

13134 Dairy Ashford, Ste. 100 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-494-1960 www.murphysdeli.com

BLU

2248 Texas Drive Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-903-7324 www.blusugarland.com

Molto Bene

8817 Highway 6 S, Ste. 200 Missouri City, TX 77459 281-778-1474 www.moltobenerestaurant.com

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Igloo moving up in market it already dominates By Wayne Chandler

“You ain’t seen nuthin’ yet!” That’s a phrase which several entertainers have made popular through the years. It’s apropos today to Igloo Products Corporation, headquartered in Katy, which has found a new life. For decades, the name Igloo has been synonymous with ice chests or coolers, and Igloo has maintained about one-third of that national and international market. But, in the past four years, a new Igloo management team has introduced 130 new products, and set record sales each year. In fact, through last September 30, nine months in 2012, Igloo already had surpassed total sales for 2011. Executives decline to put a dollar figure on sales or profits, but they’re pleased with their new progress. It now has boosted sales in the U.S. cooler market to 45 per cent, and is challenging

Gary Kiedaisch, Igloo chairman and CEO,, left, with Jeffrey Cartwiright, President and COO.

major competitors for more. Seventy-five per cent of the growth over the past four years has been driven by Igloo products. The new team, headed by Gary A. Kiedaisch (pronounced key- dash), chairman & CEO, has invested $36 million in machinery, equipment and new product design in its two facilities, mostly in the sprawling 1.3 million SF on I-10 west of Katy. Igloo has made this sales jump by revamping its core lineup of coolers by adding sizes, colors and features to make life easier for a new area of marketing, to players, parents and fans in all areas of sports. It’s added some high-priced coolers such as its Yukon Cold Locker Line which it claims will outhaul, outlast, outchill anyone.” It includes a 5 year warranty. Igloo has aggressively added innovative hard- and soft-sided products, and even tents and camp chairs. “We’re looking to offer related products that can be found within 50 feet of a cooler, “ Kiedaisch said, including the possibly a line of portable grills. Igloo has gone along on tailgating parties for years, and now there are a dozen other items with Igloo’s name on them. All of the hard-sided products are made locally except for the Yukons, and Jeffrey Cartwright, says that the plant has organized a 50,000 SF area for roto molding and the Yukons will be made here by the end of the year. Cartwright, president and chief operator officer, was hired last December to increase efficiency. Igloo maintains its competitive edge with the hard-sided plastic products because it’s more feasible to make them in Texas than to have them made outside the country because

the cost of shipping these fairly lightweight but bulky products from overseas would be prohibitive. Igloo, at its peak shipping season, packs and loads an average of 180 semi-trailer trucks leaving its shipping docks every day for destinations all over this nation.. “Particularly in the Spring, there’s a beehive of activity here every day,” Kiedaisch said. Soft-sided products are coming from China, and Igloo is marketing them aggressively: soft-sided coolers, lunch bags, duo totes and insulated bags, some made of canvas with leather accents for the gym, beach or other recreational activities, Cartwright said. Kiedaisch and Cartwright stressed that they hope to bring some of these textile –type products back to the United States. “We’re 100 per cent American’ Kiediasch smiled. ”We’re looking to hire wounded veterans, residents on Indian reservations, unemployed craftsmen in northern Maine… any where that we can be competitive,” Kiedaisch said. Kiediasch was the man who closed the deal with the private-equity firm, New Englandbased J.H. Whitney & Co., that purchased Igloo just four years ago this month. Through the years Igloo has been owned by Cocoa Cola, Quaker Oats and Brunswick Marine, but for a decade prior to 2008 Igloo had concentrated just on coolers and had become complacent, Kiedaisch believes. Kiedaisch, a former Coleman CEO, a veteran of seven years in the military reserve, has worked with several major manufacturing firms. “I’ve moved 28 times,” Kiedaisch smiled. He spends about half his time in Katy now, and the other half working out of a Northeast office, keeping in touch with customers or looking for more customers. IGLOO, continued on page 56

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1(:6:257+< RUGGLES GREEN opens in Sugar Land Town Square Grand opening event benefited Keep Sugar Land Beautiful Sugar Land Town Square’s newest eatery, Ruggles Green, is now open for business. Ruggles Green is a locally owned restaurant offering high-quality local and organic foods in a familyFederico Marques friendly atmosphere. In addition to an extensive menu featuring salads, sandwiches, burgers, tacos, pizzas and pastas, Ruggles Green offers gluten-free and vegetarian options. Located at 15903 City Walk, Ruggles Green occupies 4,000 square feet of space, according to Planned Community Developers,

Food Manager Certification training November 5 & 7 The Food Manager Certification Training will be held November 5 & 7, 2012, at the Fort Bend County Extension Office located at 1402 Band Road in Rosenberg. Managers will learn about food safety & sanitation, food flow & HACCP, and managing the operation. The cost for the class is $115. Call 281342-3034 for more information.

Ltd. (PCD). Amenities include a private room for special events, easily accessible parking and extensive patio seating. Expected to be the greenest restaurant in the world, the Sugar Land location is 100 percent wind powered, has a 2.5 KW solar system on the roof, features extensive energy-efficient LED lighting and a state of the art energy management system.

Building amenities also include herb gardens and green wall systems both inside the restaurant and in the patio area. More information about Ruggles Green can be found at RugglesGreen.com. To learn more about Keep Sugar Land Beautiful, visit KSLB.org. For a complete list of Sugar Land Town Square restaurants and retailers, visit SugarLandTownSquare.com.

Never a bare shelf By Amanda Hill

What would it be like to go to the grocery store and none of the shelves be stocked? No cereal. No milk. No fruits and veggies. To be honest, that thought doesn’t usually cross our minds. And why should it? In America, we’ve never even come close to that problem— thanks to generations of farmers who continue to take the reins. A new crop of young and enthusiastic farmers is emerging, ready to continue agriculture’s legacy. In a time when many college graduates are left unemployed, agriculture majors have an incredible job placement rate. I’ve seen rates near the 100th percentile from major agriculture programs like Iowa State, leading students

to opt for a life on the farm over careers in investment banking and law. And younger students are taking notice, too. In fact, last week the National FFA announced its membership grew by 17,000 young people during the 2010-2011 school year. Texas led the organization in both new members and total members. In Texas, more than 86,000 young people are developing skills in leadership, personal growth and agriculture education through the FFA program. That’s great news. We need more young people to return to the farm, and we need to encourage a business climate that makes it possible. Kudos to the newest FFA members and all of the young Texans who are pursuing careers in agriculture. Thanks to you, may our grocery stores never be bare!

Fluor selected to design and construct Dow chemical company project in Freeport Fluor Corporation (NYSE: FLR) has been awarded an engineering, procurement and construction management (EPCM) contract by The Dow Chemical Company (NYSE: DOW) for a propylene production asset project in Freeport, Texas. Fluor successfully completed the front-end engineering and design (FEED) contract thereby setting the stage for this next-phase EPCM project award. Fluor will book the undisclosed value in the third quarter. “Fluor is excited to be the EPCM

contractor for the successful execution and completion of this project,” said Peter Oosterveer, president of Fluor’s Energy & Chemicals Group. “The U.S. is experiencing a significant rebound in the petrochemical sector due to the attractive price of shale gas and we look forward to helping our longtime customer Dow realize this important project.” The project is under way with estimated mechanical completion by 2015. Fluor’s Houston operations center in Sugar Land

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is leading the effort with support from its Philippines operations. Nearly 1,600 home office, construction management and craft personnel are expected to be involved on this project at its peak. Earlier this year, Fluor and Dow signed a Strategic Global Engineering, Procurement, Construction and Construction Management Agreement in support of Dow’s global capital projects program ranging across all Dow products. This includes potential new project work spanning across the globe.

Submit Newsworthy items to sharon@fortbendbusinessjournal.com

1(:6:257+< RUGGLES GREEN opens in Sugar Land Town Square Grand opening event benefited Keep Sugar Land Beautiful Sugar Land Town Square’s newest eatery, Ruggles Green, is now open for business. Ruggles Green is a locally owned restaurant offering high-quality local and organic foods in a familyFederico Marques friendly atmosphere. In addition to an extensive menu featuring salads, sandwiches, burgers, tacos, pizzas and pastas, Ruggles Green offers gluten-free and vegetarian options. Located at 15903 City Walk, Ruggles Green occupies 4,000 square feet of space, according to Planned Community Developers,

Food Manager Certification training November 5 & 7 The Food Manager Certification Training will be held November 5 & 7, 2012, at the Fort Bend County Extension Office located at 1402 Band Road in Rosenberg. Managers will learn about food safety & sanitation, food flow & HACCP, and managing the operation. The cost for the class is $115. Call 281342-3034 for more information.

Ltd. (PCD). Amenities include a private room for special events, easily accessible parking and extensive patio seating. Expected to be the greenest restaurant in the world, the Sugar Land location is 100 percent wind powered, has a 2.5 KW solar system on the roof, features extensive energy-efficient LED lighting and a state of the art energy management system.

Building amenities also include herb gardens and green wall systems both inside the restaurant and in the patio area. More information about Ruggles Green can be found at RugglesGreen.com. To learn more about Keep Sugar Land Beautiful, visit KSLB.org. For a complete list of Sugar Land Town Square restaurants and retailers, visit SugarLandTownSquare.com.

Never a bare shelf By Amanda Hill

What would it be like to go to the grocery store and none of the shelves be stocked? No cereal. No milk. No fruits and veggies. To be honest, that thought doesn’t usually cross our minds. And why should it? In America, we’ve never even come close to that problem— thanks to generations of farmers who continue to take the reins. A new crop of young and enthusiastic farmers is emerging, ready to continue agriculture’s legacy. In a time when many college graduates are left unemployed, agriculture majors have an incredible job placement rate. I’ve seen rates near the 100th percentile from major agriculture programs like Iowa State, leading students

to opt for a life on the farm over careers in investment banking and law. And younger students are taking notice, too. In fact, last week the National FFA announced its membership grew by 17,000 young people during the 2010-2011 school year. Texas led the organization in both new members and total members. In Texas, more than 86,000 young people are developing skills in leadership, personal growth and agriculture education through the FFA program. That’s great news. We need more young people to return to the farm, and we need to encourage a business climate that makes it possible. Kudos to the newest FFA members and all of the young Texans who are pursuing careers in agriculture. Thanks to you, may our grocery stores never be bare!

Fluor selected to design and construct Dow chemical company project in Freeport Fluor Corporation (NYSE: FLR) has been awarded an engineering, procurement and construction management (EPCM) contract by The Dow Chemical Company (NYSE: DOW) for a propylene production asset project in Freeport, Texas. Fluor successfully completed the front-end engineering and design (FEED) contract thereby setting the stage for this next-phase EPCM project award. Fluor will book the undisclosed value in the third quarter. “Fluor is excited to be the EPCM

contractor for the successful execution and completion of this project,” said Peter Oosterveer, president of Fluor’s Energy & Chemicals Group. “The U.S. is experiencing a significant rebound in the petrochemical sector due to the attractive price of shale gas and we look forward to helping our longtime customer Dow realize this important project.” The project is under way with estimated mechanical completion by 2015. Fluor’s Houston operations center in Sugar Land

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is leading the effort with support from its Philippines operations. Nearly 1,600 home office, construction management and craft personnel are expected to be involved on this project at its peak. Earlier this year, Fluor and Dow signed a Strategic Global Engineering, Procurement, Construction and Construction Management Agreement in support of Dow’s global capital projects program ranging across all Dow products. This includes potential new project work spanning across the globe.

Submit Newsworthy items to sharon@fortbendbusinessjournal.com

Railroad Commission shows Texas has 49 percent of all active land rigs

NRG impowers Lamar CISD students Employees at a local power plant helped some Lamar CISD students take a trip to a brighter future, with a generous donation to the Lamar Educational Awards Foundation (L.E.A.F.) Because of the donation from the NRG Employee Charitable Fund, fifth-grade students at some Lamar CISD schools will be touring university campuses in the Houston area, showing them that a college degree is closer than they think. “This is an opportunity to expose them to education opportunities that exist after high school,” said L.E.A.F. Executive Director Janice Knight “Hopefully, by planting this seed of awareness, these students will grow to realize that they can accomplish anything.” Thomas Elementary students visited the University of Houston last week. Thomas teacher Sarah Gerke overheard several students discussing plans for college. “From the moment we arrived, our students were amazed by the enormity of the campus. Our guides were amazing and did a wonderful job showing us the campus and listening and answering all of the questions,”Gerke said. “During and after the tour I heard multiple comments about wanting to attend U of H after they graduate! Thank you again for allowing our 5th graders to have this wonderful opportunity. We are

RRC Production statistics and allowables for October 2012

L to R, Rick Russell L.E.A.F. Board Member Jan Russell, Librado Reyes, Barbara Macha, Executive Director Janice Knight, and Leon Hawkins.

hoping to be able to make this a 5th grade tradition!” “We are so appreciative of the employees at NRG for approving this donation again this year to help our students see the need for higher education,” said L.E.A.F. board President Judi Vernon. L.E.A.F. was created to encourage teachers to develop creative instructional strategies in the classroom. District teachers are given the opportunity to make their creative ideas a reality and positively impact student learning. L.E.A.F. awarded more than $203,000 during the 2011 funding period and has awarded more than $1.45 million in 12 years.

Library launches new mobile public access catalog Smartphones are about to get a lot smarter! Fort Bend County Libraries announces the addition of a new feature – Mobile PAC – to its online catalog system. Library patrons can now search the catalog and manage their library accounts “on the go” with their iPhone or Android device. FBCL’s new Mobile PAC (Public Access Catalog), is a web-based public-access library catalog that has been optimized for mobile devices, including the iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Blackberry, Android, Windows Mobile phone, and many other smart devices.

There is no need to download an app. When patrons access FBCL’s website (www. fortbend.lib.tx.us) with their mobile device, the website will automatically recognize that they are using a mobile device, and will switch to the mobile view. Mobile PAC allows patrons to search the catalog, view their account, renew items, place holds, check library hours, and view new and popular titles. For more information, ask at any of the branch libraries, or call the library’s Public Information Office at 281-341-2677.

The Texas average rig count as of September 2012, was 877, representing about 49 percent of all active land rigs in the United States. In the last 12 months, total Texas reported production was 474 million barrels of oil and 7.2 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. The Commission’s estimated final production for July 2012 is 49,002,732 barrels of crude oil and 524,613,151 Mcf (thousand cubic feet) of gas well gas. The Commission derives final production numbers by multiplying the preliminary July 2012 production totals of 40,321,511 barrels of crude oil and 441,853,913 Mcf of gas well gas by a production adjustment factor of 1.2153 for crude oil and 1.1873 for gas well gas. (These production totals do not include casinghead gas or condensate.) Texas natural gas storage reported to the Commission for August 2012 was 391,994,296 Mcf compared to 353,961,061 Mcf in August 2011. The September 2012 gas storage estimate is 404,036,307 Mcf. The Texas Railroad Commission’s Oil and Gas Division set initial October 2012 natural gas production allowables for prorated fields in the state to meet market demand of 9,784,268 Mcf (thousand cubic feet). In setting the initial October 2012 allowables, the Commission used historical production figures from previous months, producers’ demand forecasts for the coming month, and adjusted the figures based on well capability. These initial allowables will be adjusted after actual production for October 2012 is reported.

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1(:6:257+< IES Residential becomes first solar business in Stafford IES Residential Inc., an electrical contractor formerly known as Houston-Stafford Electric, has become the first business in Stafford to go solar by installing a 30KW solar display on the lot in front of their business. The solar array generates power for their building with the excess power flowing into the grid which powers two electric car charging stations positioned in the front parking area.

The company was recently selected by Leviton to provide electric vehicle charging station installation services for multiple automotive manufacturers, dealerships, commercial and residential applications and regional facilities nationwide. IES and Leviton are partnering to offer a complete turnkey program including electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), site assessment, permitting with local authorities, installation, final inspection and sign-off. The strategic alliance includes the installation of the electric car charging stations at dealerships across the U.S. As part of the integrated program, IES will complete onsite installations of dedicated 120V, 15A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) receptacles for Level 1 charging and 240V, 50A circuits for Level 2 charging to support Leviton’s electrical vehicle supply equipment for residential, commercial and public plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) charging. Earlier, the company installed solar panel installations for single and multi-family housing and as “green technologies” continue to emerge will keep in step to improving residential usage. The company installed the first solar house in Missouri City years ago.

BNSF begins $199 Million capital program in Texas to maintain and expand rail capacity BNSF Railway Company (BNSF) is investing invest an estimated $199 million on maintenance and rail capacity improvement and expansion projects in Texas this year. The railroad ‘s coal and freight cars pass through Fort Bend County daily. BNSF’s 2012 capacity enhancement projects in Texas include expansion of rail capacity at Tower 55 in Fort Worth, the realignment of BNSF’s mainline for the extension of the Alliance Airport runway just north of Fort Worth, replacement of the Galveston Causeway Bridge, installation of wheel detectors in Galveston, improvements to BNSF’s Amarillo car shop, as well as significant signal upgrades for federally mandated positive train control (PTC). BNSF will also continue its robust track maintenance program in Texas, which will include 1,341 miles of track surfacing and undercutting work, and the replacement of 84 miles of rail and about 563,000 ties. “BNSF’s investments will improve our ability to provide rail freight services to Texas

businesses and communities, and will expand opportunities to create more jobs and growth for the Texas economy,” said Matthew K. Rose, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. The planned capital investments in Texas are part of BNSF’s total 2012 capital commitment of $3.9 billion. The largest component of the capital plan is spending $2.1 billion on BNSF’s core network and related assets. BNSF also plans to spend approximately $1.1 billion on locomotive, freight car and other equipment acquisitions, many of which will serve Texas. The program also includes about $300 million for federally mandated positive train control and $400 million for terminal, line and intermodal expansion and efficiency projects. U.S. Department of Commerce economic data indicates that every dollar invested in freight railroads yields $3 in economic output and according to a Department of Commerce economic model, every freight rail job supports another 4.5 jobs somewhere else in our economy.

Katy to be home to Energy Center Three GOING UP SOON -- Trammell Crow has announced plans for 20-story Energy Center Three, a 545,000 square foot office building to be built at I-10 and Eldridge Parkway, with the prospect of a sister building, Construction begins this month. Energy Center Four, being constructed in the same area at a later date. “Right now, we are focused on delivery of Energy Center Three, said Aaron Thielhorn, principal of Trammel Crow. Thielhorn said there are no committed tenants at his time but “interest has been strong and we intend to develop the project on spec.”

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Energy Center Three Building

Submit Newsworthy items to sharon@fortbendbusinessjournal.com

Texas commits to protect religious liberties for all Texas’ commitment to protecting religious liberties for all, supports Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott’s efforts to intervene in court on behalf of students at Kountze High School who want to display religious language at school sporting events. “As government leaders, we owe it to people of all religions to protect expressions of faith, to ensure everyone has the right to voice their opinions and worship as they see fit,” Gov. Perry said. “During the upcoming session, we’ll continue to find ways to preserve religious expression and explore ways to protect people of faith from this ongoing onslaught.” The case in point involves cheerleaders at Kountze High School, who paint banners with scriptures from the Bible to inspire the football team before games. After being ordered to stop by the school district, the students and their parents sued the district in state court. The attorney general is intervening in the pending lawsuit. “After receiving a menacing letter from an organization with a reputation for bullying school districts, the Kountze Independent School District improperly prohibited high school cheerleaders from including religious messages on their game day banners. Those banners, which the cheerleaders independently produce on their own time with privately funded supplies, are perfectly

constitutional,” General Abbott said. “The State of Texas intervened in this case to defend the cheerleaders’ right to exercise their personal religious beliefs - and to defend the constitutionality of a state law that protects religious liberties for all Texans.” Gov. Perry signed House Bill 3678, the Religious Viewpoint Anti-Discrimination Act, in 2007 to reiterate a student’s right to religious expression and clarify permitted religious language for teachers and administrators. The law requires a school district to treat a student’s voluntary religious expression the same as a student’s expression of any other viewpoint on a permissible subject. The legislation also allows students to express themselves in the same manner as students involved in secular or non-curricular activities. The law is aligned with the U.S. Department of Education’s Guidance on Constitutionally Protected Prayer in Public Elementary and Secondary Schools, making it clear that students may pray or study religious materials during non-instructional times. The law also allows students to express religious beliefs in homework and assignments and be judged by ordinary academic standards. Additionally, the law clarifies that religious groups have the same access to school facilities as other noncurricular groups.

Pro-business approach garners another award for Texans Texas’ pro-business approach continues to receive national recognition, and Area Development Magazine is the latest organization to take notice by naming Texas the top state to do business in their third annual “Top States for Doing Business Survey.” The award is given to the state that most exemplifies industrial competitiveness related to its business environment, labor climate, infrastructure and global access and economy.

“I am very proud of the work state leaders have accomplished to make Texas the best place in the nation to live, work, raise a family and start a business,” Gov. Perry said. “As a state, we will remain committed to upholding the pillars to our success, including low taxes, restrained spending, reasonable regulations and a fair legal system, all of which have made Texas the best state in the nation to live, work, raise a family and start a business.”

Rosenberg celebrates completion of Blume Road The City of Rosenberg celebrated the completion of the Blume Road improvement project which began in July of 2011. A ribbon cutting was held near Macario Garcia Park (716 Blume). The Blume Road Improvement Project included widening, utility and drainage improvements from Klauke to Spur 529. The completed roadway is now three concrete lanes with a designated center turn lane and curb and gutter. Sidewalks were constructed down the east side of the roadway for the full project length, and on both sides of the road in the residential sections for improved pedestrian access.

TxDOT warns to know when to pass when driving Football game days are among the heaviest days for alcohol consumption. TxDOT encourages fans to enjoy the big games but to also be responsible when it comes to game-day drinking and Know When to Pass. Always designate a sober driver if you plan on drinking, and if you are impaired, do not drive — call a taxi, use mass transit, contact the community safe ride program or call a sober friend or family member to get you home safely or simply stay where you are.

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1(:6:257+< New Mental Health resource directories now available for Fort Bend Mental Health America of Fort Bend County published a new edition of its Behavioral Health Resource Guide, “Providing Light, Giving Hope.” The guides are now available for distribution throughout the county. Fort Bend County residents now hasve a valuable tool to help link those in need of mental health resources with the health care professionals and programs that can provide much needed help. “We are pleased to announce that our resource guide is available for those families who are suffering with mental health issues. It is important to know that there are resources in the community where you can go for help,” said Dave Armstrong, Chairman of the Board of Directors for MHAFBC. MHAFBC distributes 7,000 resource guides annually to hospitals, schools, faithbased groups, and senior centers. Individuals and families can also receive a copy of the guide by contacting the MHAFBC office at 281-207-2480. The mission of Mental Health America of Fort Bend County is to promote mental wellness, eliminate mental health inequalities, and improve quality of life. The organization is committed to providing advocacy to remove the barriers to quality mental health care for those battling a mental illness. “Providing light, giving hope” is an important step towards that goal. About Mental Health America of Fort Bend County Founded in 1989 after a Mental Health Needs Assessment Project, MHAFBC was initiated to provide information, education, and training to help those who help others meet the mental health needs of Fort Bend County. Today the organization continues to provide leadership in mental health education, advocacy and service for the diverse communities of one of the fastest growing counties in the nation. Its membership, leadership and support is open to all residents.

Dotzour predicts Congress to extend all tax cuts Dr. Mark G. Dotzour, the chief economist at the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University in College Station, presented his assessment of the national financial market and budget, what’s at stake for businesses in 2013 and commented on what’s holding the American economy back from being robust in this century at the joint chamber Fort Bend Infrastructure Conference luncheon last month. “The economy began to rebound last fall,” said Dotzour, displaying numerous charts and grafts and a copy of the 2013 US Government budget to emphasize the changes. “Home sales, car sales and retail sales all showed a rebound.” He continued by adding, “Real estate construction is underway and residential housing markets are stablizing. More people are working.” What America faces, he said, is that by going over the “fiscal cliff” would cause a recession in 2013. With more drama about debt ceilings and warnings about European debt crisis and recession, with China slowing down and then Aussie goes with them, leaves America in a stirring situation. “The current slowdown is a pause, rather than a move into a new recession.” Dotzour said look for Congress to extend all tax cuts after the election, look for Congress to extend the debt ceiling. Look for the Feds to keep interest rates low and talk about more QE. “We have two outlooks: If Congress begins to balance the budget

Dr. Mark G. Dotzour

or if Congress fails again in 2013.” When FDIC insurance on accounts in excess of $250,000 goes away at the end of the year, how will depositors react?” he queried. Are they likely to buy short-term treasuries? What will the impact be on money market funds?” The Federal budget is eaten up with interest payments and will underwater, performing CRE loans stop performing?” If so, he added, Fannie, Freddie and the Federal Reserve would incur huge paper losses on mortgages they own. And all homeowners with ARM loans would lose spending power.”

Missouri City Ballet plans two events The Missouri City Ballet presents “Brunch with the Sugar Plum Fairy.” Join the cast members of The Nutcracker Ballet for brunch at the Quail Valley Country Club on Sunday, November 18th from 2pm-5pm. Mom’s and daughters delight in the holiday magic of having tea with Mother Ginger and the beautiful Sugar Plum Fairy. Call 832-387MCB1 for more info. Tickets available at www.missouricityballet.org.

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The Missouri City Ballet presents “The Nutcracker Ballet” on November 24th and 25th at the Stafford Performing Arts Centre. Bring the family to enjoy this wonderful holiday classic. Show times are Sat. Nov. 24th at 7pm and Sun. Nov. 25th at 2pm & 6pm. Special group discounts available! Tickets range from $15.00-$20.00. Purchase your tickets online at www.missouricityballet.org.

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Texas’ Fortune 500 by the numbers The Lone Star State is home to 52 Fortune 500 companies. The Journal will periodically highlight some of the facts and stats these enterprises are delivering, as they bring economic vitality to our state and take their products and services to the world. 237,000,000 – The number of monthly listeners San Antonio’s Clear Channel Media and Entertainment reaches in the United States. 40,900,000 – The number of oil and gas exploration acreage Houston’s Apache Corporation has worldwide. 28,000 – The megawatt capacity Houston’s Calpine Corporation, the largest independent power producer in the nation, provides customers in 20 states and parts of Canada. 2000 – The number of playgrounds Plano’s Dr Pepper Snapple Group will build or renovate nationwide by the end of 2013 through its “Let’s Play” initiative to get kids and families more active. 900 – The number of new products Dallas’ Texas Instruments brings to the marketplace on average every year. 540 – The number of Stripes convenience stores Corpus Christi-based Susser Holdings operates in Texas, New Mexico and Oklahoma 50 – The number of hospitals Dallas’ Tenet Healthcare Corporation operates in 11 states. 30 – The percentage that Round Rock’s Dell increased its R&D budget in 2012 to advance cloud data solutions and information delivery systems. 16 – The percentage of KimberlyClark’s $20.8 billion in net sales that comes from European customers. 1 – The rank Irving’s ExxonMobil holds on the Fortune 500. Source: Compiled from company press releases and Web resources

Sur La Table to occupy spot at Sugar Land Town Square National retailer opens fourth Houston-area location in time for the holidays Sur La Table will open its doors in Sugar Land Town Square in November. The retail destination will feature quality kitchenware, including gadgets, knives, small kitchen appliances, bakeware, glassware, barware, linens, cookbooks, gourmet food products and home furnishings. The Sugar Land location will offer a culinary program and full-sized kitchen, featuring cooking classes open to the public, taught by the store’s classically trained resident chef. Each class will fit 16 or more people, and classes will be offered throughout the week, beginning on opening day. Participants can register online at SurLaTable.com. Sur La Table will be located at 2210 Lone Star Drive and will occupy 5,840 square feet of space. The retailer expects to employ more than 20 full- and part-time employees at the Sugar Land location, announced Planned

Community Developers, Ltd. (PCD). “We are excited to open our newest Houston-area location in Sugar Land Town Square,” said Jack Schwefel, Chief Executive Officer of Sur La Table. “Over the years, we have noticed a growing customer base located in Sugar Land, and we believe that this location is a perfect match for us. The great dining options, central location of the development, and available parking attracted us to Town Square.” Jack Breard, president of UCR Urban, represented Sur La Table in the transaction; Charles Adams, vice president of retail for PCD, represented PCD. To learn more about Sur La Table, including class schedules, visit SurLaTable. com. For additional information on retailers and restaurants in Sugar Land Town Square, visit SugarLandTownSquare.com.

The DINNER TONIGHT Healthy Cooking School set for November 8 The DINNER TONIGHT! Healthy Cooking School will be held on Thursday, November 8, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at the Bud O’Shieles Community Center located at 1330 Band Road in Rosenberg. Doors will open at 5 p.m. for registration. Pre-registration and a $20 class fee is required by November 1. The class is being sponsored by the Texas A&M Cooperative programs. The DINNER TONIGHT! Healthy Cooking School will teach you easy, nutritious and economical ways to feed your family. Join us for the culinary event of the year. While there are many groups who conduct cooking schools, this cooking school has a

unique niche with demonstration recipes that are cost effective, easy to prepare and fit into a healthy meal plan. We are targeting busy people who still want to make time for meal preparation and feel good about what they are feeding themselves and their family. The goal is to promote family mealtime, teach families healthy meal planning and food preparation techniques, and promote Texas agriculture. Door prizes! Goody Bags! Exhibitors! And sample tasting of select recipes! For more information, call 281-342-3034, ext. 7024.

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Jacobs receives business award Jacobs Engineering Group Inc. announced today that it received an Award of Excellence from the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) of Greater Houston. ABC’s Business Excellence Awards recognize outstanding business practices of ABC members; including stellar management, HR, safety, community service and environmental practices. Jacobs received top honors in the large contractor category. Upon accepting the award, Group Vice President Mike Autrey stated, “We are delighted and honored to receive this award from ABC for our business practices. The culture and leadership at Jacobs focuses on delivering superior value to our clients worldwide. As such, we are committed to running an ethical, safe, cost-conscious and sustainable business; today and in the future.�

Linda Vega appointed to Family Practice Residency Advisory Committee Three Texas residents have been added to the Family Practice Residency Advisory Committee by Texas Governor Rick Perry. The committee makes recommendations to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board regarding the funding of family practice residency training programs. Among them is Linda Vega of Sugar Land, an attorney in private practice and founder of Latinos Ready to Vote!. She is a member of the State Bar of New Mexico, Federal Bar Association and American Immigration Lawyers Association. She is also a volunteer attorney for the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials, Neighborhood Centers Inc. of Houston, and City of Houston Mayor’s Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs. Vega received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas and a law degree from George Washington Law School. She is appointed for a term to expire Aug. 29, 2013.

Paul Bing, M.D. named Chief of Staff at Memorial Hermann Rehabilitation Hospital-Katy Paul Bing, M.D. has been named chief of staff at Memorial Hermann Rehabilitation Hospital – Katy. During his oneyear term, Dr. Bing will be responsible for ensuring Paul Bing, M.D. the continuation of quality medical care throughout the hospital. He also will serve as chairman of the hospital’s Medical Executive Committee and as a member of the Peer Review Team. Dr. Bing, a native of Katy, received his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Texas at Austin and worked as a consulting engineer prior to entering medical school. He received his medical degree from Texas Tech University Health Science Center in Lubbock, Texas. He then completed his internship and residency at the University of Kansas in Kansas City, and completed a Pulmonary and Critical

Care fellowship at the University of Kansas before returning to Katy in 1996 to join Medical Colleagues of Texas, LLP. Board certified in both internal and pulmonary medicine, Dr. Bing treats acute and chronic conditions, including patients who present with diseases and conditions of the chest, particularly pneumonia, asthma, tuberculosis, emphysema, and complicated chest infections. “A long-time fixture in the Katy community, Dr. Bing has excellent leadership qualities and is well respected by his colleagues and staff alike,� said Noelle Lopez, executive director of Memorial Hermann Rehabilitation Hospital-Katy. “He brings more than 20 years of clinical experience and a passion to deliver highquality care to each and every patient. For these reasons and many more, we are pleased to have Dr. Bing join our executive team.�

Dr. Cheri LaMarque Pemble awarded The Fort Bend Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) selected Cheri LaMarque Pemble, PhD, CHt, to receive the Federation of Houston Dr. Cheri LaMarque Professional Women’s “Woman of Excellence� award. The award is given to women who have made significant contributions to their organizations and community. Cheri, as she is called by her ABWA colleagues, joined the Fort Bend ABWA chapter in 2008 and quickly became involved in all chapter activities and is currently the president. She was feted and congratulated at the

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FHPW Gala at the Hyatt Regency hotel downtown, along with other professional women honorees. Cheri says it is her honor and privilege to serve as the Fort Bend Chapter’s Woman of Excellence for the 2012-2013 year. Cheri is a certified clinical hypnotherapist, with offices in Sugar Land/Galleria area. She earned her PhD in behavioral sciences, with a hypnotherapy specialty from Alpha University. ABWA, Fort Bend chapter and the Houston Federation of Professional Women congratulates Cheri for receiving this well-deserved award. Cheri is married to Roy Pemble and has one son, Ryan Raddin and two grandchildren, Collin and Kelly Raddin.

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Methodist Sugar Land Hospital joins elite group of hospitals with new residency program in physical therapy

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ethodist Sugar Land Hospital’s (MSLH) new orthopedic physical therapy residency program – one of just three in the state of Texas – has recently been credentialed by the American Physical Therapy Association. Led by the board-certified physical therapists at Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas (MOST), the program gives new physical therapists an opportunity to advance their clinical orthopedic skills while working and studying for 12 months alongside the MOST staff. “We have the only accredited program in Texas that is not affiliated with a university or academic medical center,” said Sean Croft, Director of Rehabilitation Services. “This is a tremendous achievement, and it is a testament to the skills, knowledge and experience of our physical therapy staff at MSLH and MOST. No one else in the greater Houston area has this many skilled clinicians and this level of expertise under one roof, and our team has created an outstanding curriculum for our residents.” The new program puts Methodist Sugar Land Hospital in a select group of prestigious organizations nationwide that offer PT residency, including New York University, Massachusetts General Hospital, Cedars-Sinai, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Ohio State University, University of Southern California and Kaiser Permanente. In addition to helping develop the next generation of physical therapists, the residency program is designed to benefit MOST patients by adding to available staff and assisting in the sharing of ideas and best practices. “We are bringing in the best and the brightest physical therapists – individuals who have been highly trained in modern therapy techniques and who have been caring for patients already,” said Toko

Nguyen, Supervisor, Clinical Residency Programs. “These are therapists who are ready to move to the next level and become advanced practitioners. Our new program will give them that opportunity while enhancing our ability to serve the community.” Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab services are located at Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas (Highway 6 and Brooks St.) and at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s

Top- Ben Renfrow, Clinical Residency Faculty & Toko Nguyen, Supervisor, MSLH Clinical Residency Programs; Bottom- Marie Potter, Coordinator, MSLH Sports Physical Therapy Residency; Lindsay Koller, Clinical Residency Faculty & Brian Duncan, Coordinator, MSLH Orthopedic Physical Therapy Residency.

Spine Center off Town Center Boulevard. To schedule an appointment, please call 281-201-0405 or for more information, visit MethodistSugarLand.com.

Texas unemployment rate drops to 6.8 percent in September

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exas’ seasonally adjusted unemployment rate fell to 6.8 percent in September, down from 7.1 percent in August. The state’s unemployment rate is down from 7.9 percent a year ago, and is well below the national unemployment rate in September of 7.8 percent. Texas added 21,000 seasonally adjusted nonfarm jobs in September for a total of 262,700 jobs added since last year. “We saw encouraging signs in our state’s labor market in September and a decrease in the unemployment rate last month,” said Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Chairman Andres Alcantar. “Texas continues to add jobs and we now have a record number of people employed in our state.” Seven of the 11 major industries in Texas expanded in September. The largest gain was in Professional and Business Services, which grew by 13,600 jobs. The industry has grown by 47,200 positions over the past year. “It is clear that employers are benefitting from the available skilled workers in our state,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Ronny Congleton. “I’m encouraged to see that 3,800 manufacturing jobs were added last

month, which indicates a growing demand for goods made here in Texas.” Jobs in Trade, Transportation, and Utilities grew as employers added 9,100 positions in September for a total of 54,700 positions since last year. Education and Health Services reported 6,600 additional jobs in September, totaling 39,000 jobs added in that industry since September 2011. Employment in Leisure and Hospitality increased by 3,700 jobs in September for a total of 50,300 jobs added over the year. “Thanks to low taxes, a sensible regulatory environment, and an entrepreneurial spirit, Texas remains the number one state in America to do business,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Tom Pauken. “Since last year, the Texas economy has added 272,400 private sector jobs. That’s a 3.1 percent annual growth rate for Texas compared to the national rate of just 1.7 percent.” The Midland Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) had the lowest September unemployment rate in the state at 3.3 percent. The Odessa MSA came in second at 3.9 percent, and the Amarillo MSA third at 4.4 percent (not seasonally adjusted).

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Fred Felcman, the first assistant district attorney, receives national honor

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red Felcman, the first Assistant District Attorney for the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office, has been recognized by the prestigious Association of Government Attorneys in Capital Litigation with the Board of Directors’ Trial Award for Outstanding Advocacy in Capital Cases for 2011-2012. Felcman is one of only four litigators to receive this national award. The award was presented to Felcman this year at the Association’s annual conference. “This award is a triple testament to the achievements of Fred Felcman in capital case litigation,” noted District Attorney John Healey. “I believe that Fred is being recognized for his work this year, in previous years, and most importantly, for the effect he will have on capital litigation in Fort Bend County for years to come”, Healey stated. “Felcman has been the leading capital murder litigator in this office for the last thirty-five years. With only five exceptions, Fred Felcman has been the lead or active second chair prosecutor against every capital murder defendant tried during that time.” Only fifty-nine years old, Felcman has served as a capital murder litigator for portions of five decades; beginning with the trial of James “Sugarman” Russell in 1978. By March of 2012, Felcman had been an active prosecutor in fifteen capital murder cases. In six of seven cases where the death penalty was sought, it was returned by the jury after the defendant was found guilty. A life sentence followed a guilty verdict in the seventh case. Of the remaining eight cases, most were tried as capital murder where the State did not seek the death penalty. Others, for strategic reasons, were tried as murder. In each case, a life sentence or its equivalent was imposed. None of these fifteen cases were ever reversed on appeal. Felcman’s success is marked by his common sense approach to jury selection, wherein he makes every effort to make

First Assistant District Attorney Fred Felcman.

prospective jurors feel comfortable with the legal issues involved. Felcman has a reputation as one of the toughest practitioners of the art of cross examining opposing witnesses. This was best illustrated when, during a vigorous cross examination by Felcman of capital defendant Spencer Corey Goodman’s girlfriend, Goodman lost his temper, bolted out of his chair and swiftly strode towards the door, yelling to a bailiff “let’s go.” In nominating Felcman for the award, Healey wrote that “Felcman’s toughness is offset by the tenderness he feels towards victims and their families. This was best shown by Felcman’s reoccurring reaction to a bone-chilling 911 call in preparation for a capital murder case tried in 2011. Every time he heard the 911 call made by a hysterical young daughter of the defendant in which she described the horror of watching her father kill her mother and grandmother and begged her grandmother not to die, Felcman’s eyes welled up with tears,” Healey reflected. The greatest contribution which Fred Felcman has made to capital prosecution in Fort Bend County has yet to be realized”, predicted Healey. “His methods and style continue to be imparted to an ever- growing

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number of attorneys who have worked with Fred on capital cases. Once having tried a capital case with Fred, attorneys are allowed to train future generations of prosecutors in the methods and style which have been so successfully crafted by Felcman.” Fred Felcman has seen the sun set on two completed capital murder cases during 2011-2012. During that same time, he continues to work alongside six more trial prosecutors on three capital cases to be tried between 2012 and 2013. In summarizing Felcman’s spirited future in capital murder prosecution, Healey offered an apology to those literary purists who would be offended by his modification of an Alfred Lord Tennyson poem. Healey hoped that he would be forgiven for likening Felcman to the aging King Ulysses, as he witnesses Felcman, like Ulysses, exhorting his comrades: “Come, my friends, ‘tis not too late to seek a newer world. Push off…for my purpose holds to sail beyond the sunset.... And tho’ I am not now that strength which in old days moved earth and heaven, that which I am, I am; One equal temper of heroic heart, not quite yet made weak by time and fate; still strong in will, to strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.”

Transwestern to develop 384,900-SF industrial complex in Houston’s Energy Corridor at Katy

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ranswestern’s Houston headquarters has announced a 30-acre land acquisition in Mason Creek Corporate Center for a 384,900-square-foot industrial project. The development will be constructed in a single phase with a variety of building types in order to meet the needs of various tenant types. The project will be part of Mason

Sugar Land 101 application deadline approaches

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Creek Corporate Center, a 110-acre masterplanned land development being executed by Parkside Capital, LLC. The project site is on Park Row along the north side of the corporate center, which itself is situated at the northeast corner of Interstate 10 and Mason Road, approximately one mile east of the Grand Parkway. The Transwestern project will consist of five buildings. Commencement of construction is set for early November of this year with delivery in the third quarter of 2013. The project is being developed on a speculative basis with an institutional capital partner. The architect is Munson Kennedy Partnership. “The I-10 west corridor has historically been the strongest path of growth in the Houston region, but there is a lack of high

quality, modern industrial space,” said Pete Johnston, Transwestern’s senior vice president of development services. “The completion of major improvements to I-10 coupled with continued westward economic activity makes this a compelling business plan.” Johnston, along with Carleton Riser, managing director of developments services, and Steve Kilcrease, vice president, are spearheading the design and development effort for Transwestern. Transwestern acquired land for the development from Parkside Capital for an undisclosed amount. Transwestern was represented by Bob Berry of Jones Lang LaSalle on the land acquisition and Parkside handled the transaction directly on behalf of its venture.

he City of Sugar Land is accepting applications for the next Sugar Land 101 class scheduled to begin in January

2013. Sugar Land 101 participants learn about City operations from Sugar Land’s top managers. The class also includes two citywide tours, including a behind the scenes look at City facilities. Participant Laura Richard plans to use her knowledge “to be an ambassador for the City,” and spring 2012 alumni Dan Simeone says he will “always consider (Sugar Land 101) time well spent.” Those applying for Sugar Land 101 must be a resident of Sugar Land for at least one year, a registered voter, over 21 years of age, not currently holding or running for elected office and willing to attend the 10 week session. To apply online or for more information about Sugar Land 101 and additional enrollment requirements, visit www. sugarlandtx.gov/programs/sugarland101. Enrollment is limited.

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

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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 September 2012. More Assumed Names may be viewed online at http://ccweb.co.fort-bend.TX.us/RealEstate/SearchEntry.aspx. There were 102 Assumed Names with Notary Fee for month of September. There were also 327 Assumed Names without a notary fee. Harris Archie L Mo City 2 YO City Radio Show 9898 Bissonnet Ste 390 77036

Chen Fei Yaya De Crafts 5911 Mia Rose Ct 77494

Giles Kennedy Sr Lincoln Bible Church Houston 3118 Cypress Point Dr 77459

Washington Cathy (+) The Craft Connection (+) 1815 Grove Court 77489

Muniz Robert L Robert Muniz & Associates 0610 Winlock Trace 77450

Sarwari Mohammad Zaman (+) Blue Star Limousine 1550 Katy Gap Rd #2813 77494

Winters Stormyjean Red Closet 903 Cherry Hills Dr 77459 Watson Dorian Pure Ms Po Box 347 77487 Watson Dorian Dorian Watson Music Po Box 347 77487 Steptoe Carol Hot Spot Collections 1907 Hammerwood Dr 77489 Wilson Christopher I Of The Storm Music Group 3031 S Waterlily Dr 77406 Wilson Christopher Ismg Publishing (+) 3031 S Water Lily Dr 77406 Bosarge Joshua Cody Serene Green 618 Old Colony Dr 77406 Chellaram Darshan T (+) Realistic Investments & Management 3 Sugar Creek Ctr Ste 100 77478 Gould Carrie (+) Team 2000 3619 Bailey Ct 77459 Rodriguez Valerie (+) Fit Ave. 735 Dulles Ave #203 77477

Callahan Glynella Xtradin-Hair 8614 Quail Burg Lane 77489 Kattukandathil Surendran Satic Phone Soft 733 Stafford Springs Ave 77477 Bruno Michael L Mbc Associates 4711 Laurel Chase Ln 77494 Carr Foda Carr-B-Que 14 High Meadows Dr 77479 Adams Joint Ventures LLC Laptops For Learning Foundation 9432 A Hwy 6 S 77083 Mathis Lareitha 2 U Cargo & Transportation 1614 Castle Creek Dr 77489 Iquote Direct LLC United Health And Life 6065 HiLLCroft Suite 312 77081 Rosado Rhadames Adrian Auto Sale 15919 Val Vista Dr 77083 Crawford Patrick Crawford Trucking 19 Brooks St 77478 Orta Armando Vip Digital Media 10023 Towne Brook Ln 77498

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Go Green Environmental Services Group Inc American Signature Development Co 14019 SW Freeway #301-216 77478 Botto Jason Botto’s Auto Sport 3306 S Fry Rd Apt 1126 77450 Chavarria Veronica Osiris Cleaning Services 1511 5Th Street 77489 Bowie Ebony (+) Bowie Insurance Agency Allstate 14100 Sw Frwy # 360 77478 Little Tara Nicole Tara’s Treasures 6639 Colonial Rose Ln 77469 Johnson Tenisha V. Marie’s 3001 Dove Country Drive Apt 1807 77477 Twin-Cities Group Inc Rose-Rich Alcoholics Anonymous Group 5114 Ave H 77471 SRB Inc Brilliant Sky Toys And Books 16160 City Walk 77479 Ayers Adriane A & Ayers Hair Salon 0626 Fm 1093 77489

The Our-Glass Consulting Group (+) Great Escapes Coffee & Co. 14905 Hwy 90 Main 77035

NS & Ace LLC Secure Electric Solutions 1500 W Airport #126 77498

Baison John K JLS Ventures 1622 Bedias Crk Dr 77407

NJ & Ace LLC Measured Energy Solutions 15000 W Airport Blvd #126 77498

Fikes Jessica (+) Runnin J Lawn Services 10155 Fm 2759 77469

Heshmati Shahnaz Q Cuts 718 Fm 1092 77477

Kane Rebecca L (+) Ef Williams Inc Kane And Company The Cleaning Giant Services (+) 1602 South Hearthside Drive 1306 Fm 1092 Suit 503 77489 77406-1368 All or Nothing Restaurant Concepts Inc College Sports & Wings 930 Camelot Lane 77459 Sio Louisa Universal Flooring Supply SA 13230 Murphy Road #600 77477 Johnson Twana (+) Ice Collar Manufacturing 014 Chattaroy Place 77478 Mulvany Rebecca J (+) The Eclectic Companies (+) 515 Water Rest 77479 Olanrewaju Oyinade Roxeu Emergency Management Training (EMT) 11511 Katy Fwy #330 77079

Buede Theresa 2013 Metaphysical and Healing Expo 8802 Rocky Knoll Ln 77469

Ulloa Jorge Andres Franco Texas Transportation Services. “TTS” 1800 Fm 1092 Rd Apt #114 77459

Gaines Ravon The Our-Glass Consulting Group (+) 1003 Bolton Dr 77489

Compan Elda Franky’s Hot Dogs #2 12101 Steepleway Blvd Apt 3302 77065

Kane Rebecca L (+) Home Alone Petsitters 1602 South Hearthside Drive 77406-1368 Shivguru Corporation Liquor Barn 12430 Tom Ball Pk Way 77088 Guevara Oswald O & N Services (+) 7226 Garden Field Ln 77407 Gutierrez Maritza Mmg Wireless 8002 S Gessner Dr 77036 Lowe Dorothy I I Care Home Health Care 1131 Brooks Ave 77471 Hoy-Reyna Lorraine A L’original Over-D Oog 4703 Carnation Grove Lane 77469 Urban Catalyst Inc Prestige Learning Institute 10330 Highway 6 #D163 77459 Calahan James Jc Cartage 15022 Trinity Meadow Dr 77489

DBA (Assumed Names) Debow Robert Casey Debowski Services 3115 Wagon Trail Dr 77479 Barrera Leonides First Class Alarms & Security 15030 Sugar Sweet Dr 77498 Pasagui Marichu P Novo 914 Opal Chase Dr 77469 Jorge Sergio Uriel Sergio U. Jorge Dba Srv LLC/Go! Calenders, Toys & Games/Sergio U. Jorge 5000 Katy Mills Circle 77494

Data Beat

Ste 230 143 77459 Slusher Deziree C Forever Love Birds Weddings 120 Texas Ave #2307 77003 Laird Jerry Ronald Ronnie’s Cleaning Services 6138 Wichshire Drive 77471 Ronnie’s Marketing Services 6138 Wickshire Drive 77471 Konopacky Michelle L Pink Owl Sewing Designs 8114 Rusty Hawthorne Dr 77494

Mohammadzai Latifa Nikki’s Beauty Salon 718 Fm 1092 77477

Alvarez Jose Alfredo Alpha Battlefield 110 Turtle Creek 77459

Aguilar Patricia Brite Light Headlight And Plastic Restoration 7019 Morning Sky 77494

Johnson Brenda Explosive Travels Po Box 974 77459

Greenhouse Tavis (+) Tee’s Technology 3443 Addicks Clodine Rd 7302 77082 Band Alici Band Welding Services 527 Lake Dale Ln 77406 Smith Barbara T Barbara’s Jewelry Designs 1707 Rambling Stone Dr 77406 Bueno Mabel Embryolab LLC 37106 Donigan Road 77423

Johnson Brenda Walker B B J Jewelry and Accessories (+) Po Box 172 77459 Chhin Ann K (+) Shipley Donuts 451 Fm 1092 77459 Arcos Concepcion (+) Gigi Beauty And Naturals 1415 Somerset Park Ln 77450 Hicks Cynthia (+) Achieve Physical Therapy Inc. 11569 Hwy 6 South Pmb #186 77498

Maduka Livinus U L L Motors (+) 1611 Cozy Hollow Lane 77469

Eagles Technical Supp Svcs Inc Millennium Transportation Services Inc. Po Box 367 77459

Flores Paul (+) Mohflo Event Photography 13514 Woodchester Dr 77498

Oparaji Michael Millennium Express Bus Lines 16302 Setter Court 77489

Modern Blue Custom Pools & Spas LLC Modern Blue Custom Pools & Spas, LLC 9119 Tx Highway 6

Wilson Tonya L Wilson’s Enterprise Group 4608 Jervis Drive 77471

(+) = More Names

Herren Michelle Rhwc Process Service 603 Loggers Depot 77478 Perez Tristan Jay (+) Pontz Music Group 629 Hadley Circle 77478 Palacios Carlos (+) L T S Solution (+) 3501 Cinco Ranch Blvd Suite H120 905 77494 Manzano Dennis S Manzano Building Maintenance 4326 Trafalgar 77045

Antwi George A-Mylann Group 1127 Breezy Shore Ln 77407 Marad Inc Sofi 18 Fosters Green Dr 77479 Chitty Michael D Dolange Enterprizes LLC 11838 Caprock Canyons Ln 77498 Magoulas Patty Fanciful Designs 919 Colonial Drive 77479

Raybion Lucas Texas All-Out 9719 Highland Pointe Dr 77461 Smith E Harrison (+) Fairchild Growers 9806 Old Needville Fairchild 77461 Delaney Rogers Delaney Construction 3922 Camelia Glen Ln 77545 Steptoe Vicki Steptoe’s Cleaning Services 1807 Shadow Haven Ct 77545 Digiovanni Ryan Alpha Roofing 9103 Dragonwood Trl 77083 Canamar Alesha A Inside The Looking Glass 4022 Blacksmith Ln 77479 Sharrieff Nasser Gamal Circle Spur Riding & Social Organization 7634 S Glen Willow Ln 77489 Maredia Salim R (+) Kurry Walah The Indian Restaurant 630 Colony Lake Land Estate Dr Apt 438 77477

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Data Beat

Commercial Building Permits

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

TYPE OF PERMIT

VALUE

MEADOWS PLACE 12220 SW Freeway 12002 SW Freeway 12002 SW Freeway

Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel

$1,619,034 $1,024,000 $48,000

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial)

09/01/12-09/30/12

$2,691,034

MISSOURI CITY 4524 Riversone Blvd 13219 A1 Stafford Rd 5501 Hwy 6 3334 FM 1092 Rd 410 4823 Hwy 6 1921 Parlview Ln 14810 Fairway Pines Dr 6016 Sienna Ranch Rd

Commercial Building Commercial Lease Alteration Commercial Alteration Commercial Lease Alteration Commercial Alteration Commercial Alteration Commercial New Commercial New

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial)

09/01/12-09/30/12

$4,552,865

STAFFORD 12723 Capricorn Dr 100 10225 Mula Rd 100 4659 Wright Rd 100

Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building

$20,721 $93,700.00 $10,000.00

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial)

09/01/12-09/30/12

$124,421

SUGAR LAND 12999 Executive Dr 555 Industial Blvd HCS Bldg 20010 Southwest Fwy 16535 Southwest Fwy Ste K5545 1235 Lake Pointe Pkwy Ste 200 19875 Southwest Fwy Ste 180 3030 Edgewater Blvd Ste 103 1429 State Hwy 6 Ste 104 106 Guenther St 19832 Southwest Fwy 2591 Town Center Blvd 16529 Southwest Fwy 16535 Southwest Fwy Ste 140 56 Sugar Creek Center Blvd Ste 100 One Fluor Daniel Dr Bldg D 16550 A Southwest Fwy 510 Industrial Blvd 4405 A State Hwy 6 One Sugar Creek Center Blvd Ste 700 One Sugar Creek Center Blvd Ste 800 2611 Grants Lake Blvd Bldg 22 12946 Dairy Ashford Rd Ste 360 One Sugar Creek Center Blvd Lobby 16160 City Walk

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

$3,849,033 $1,963,165 $84,244 $32,332 $536,861 $30,890 $154,500 $440,000 $167,400 $364,078 $105,104 $150,000 $70,680 $10,000 $438,273 $39,459 $48,500 $36,680 $275,241 $51,728 $67,004 $29,413 $37,573 $32,500

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial)

09/01/12-09/30/12

$8,876,783

$850,000 $49,500 $85,000 $19,365 $119,000 $20,000 $2200000 $1250000

OWNER/CONTRACTOR

Helfman Ford / Bryans A-1 Houston Auto & Air Bag Electrical TDA/W.C. Contractors, Inc.

Clearwater Utilities, Inc Pike Road-Stafford LP/Bearden Management, Inc. Wal-Mart Real Estate Business/Whaling Enterprises (BLDG) TSP Holdings LTD/LRM Services McKinney Real Estate Properties/Mission Constructors DeWalt Cemetary Foundation/CSI Wireless, Inc. Lakeview BP Land LP/Choate Construction Company To Be Determined

Adkins Services, Inc./Oilfield Audit/ Dunhill Development Corrotherm International USA LLC/ G B N C Construction LP Walong Marketing Inc/Tawa/ Echco Construction Inc

Fleishman Gerald & Eileen 1995/E E Reed Construction, LP Vector Cable Co/E E Reed Construction, LP EMI Corp/Embree Construction Group Inc First Colony Mall LLC/ The Beam Team Lake Pointe Parkway Properties/Med Tech Construction KM-TS Greatwood, LLC/PLK Services LGA&M Management LLC/Affinity Builders Inc. Fondren Investments, LTD/American Commercial Contractor Younger Roland K/Living Improvements EMI Corp/Parkway Construction & Assoc Weingarten Realty Investors /United Constructors of TX JC Penney Prop Inc/EMJ Corp. First Colony Mall, LLC/Phoenix Group American National Insurance Co/D.R. Horton Builders LakePointe Assets LLC/Hammonds Construction LLC Amreit Inc/Sage Commercial Group K W Industries Inc/Winston Construction APEX Remodeling & Construction Parkway Portfolio I, LLC/O’Donnell/Snider Construction Parkway Portfolio i, LLC/O’Donnell/Snider Construction Grants Lake Tempos Association/M & G Painting, LLC Gupta Sugar Land Plaza Limited/Houston Remodeling Parkway Portfolio I, LLC/Mahaca Construction Town Center Lakeside, LTD/Punditz LLC

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From food stamps to success

L

ife can turn on a dime, and many have found one day you can be gainfully employed, the next day applying for food stamps, and Norma Cavazos knows exactly how one day can make a difference. “I was a successful radio advertising executive for 24 years, then life took a sudden downturn and I ended up unemployed, filling out forms for food stamps and medical program for my daughter and I. This was a really hard time, nerves frayed. I had always been on the other side of the table, donating to food banks. But things got worse,” Cavazos said. A few months later, Cavazos begun receiving letters from the bank that her home was going into foreclosure. But things got even worse. “I was diagnosed with cancer,” she said. Where do you go when life falls apart? To your knees, and that is exactly where Cavazos went. “God is great and His amazing grace will carry us though, these are the words my daughter and I lived by, and now a few years later, I know God was and is with us every step,” Cavazos said. Throughout all of these rough times, Cavazos continued to see articles about how people had reinvented themselves in the business world, and she knew that was what she needed to do if she was going to survive. “My daughter has many allergies so I wanted to make a candles that was allergen

free and after researching what was the healthiest wax to burn, I came up with LolaRose Richmond Soy Candles,” Cavazos said. One of her first customers requested soy wickless candles, that are 100% soy wax that are placed in warmers and heated. The fragrance is a clean burn with no soot or allergens. “Within weeks, the candles were flying off the shelves. In January 2012, a Richmond old timer came in and asked if I would make some goat’s milk soap. I did research and found the great benefits of this product. Goats milk is a good source of calcium, amino acid tryptophan, protein, phosphorus, vitamin B2 and potassium. This would make the perfect soap, especially for those with problem or dry skin, so I got busy,” she said. Jesse Mata, owner Richmond Post Office on Morton Street, stepped up to lend Cavazos a helping hand. “Mr. Mata, has been like a father, friend, grandfather to my daughter and a true angel to me. He rented me space in the front of his Post Office.......,” Cavazos said. After months and months of hard work, Cavazos now has a contract with Walgreen’s.

Igloo moving up in market it already dominates IGLOO, continued from page 41

Two of Igloo’s biggest customers are WalMart and Academy. Cartwright, a West Point graduate with five years of military service, has had years of experience with major manufacturers, the latest with a firm in Indiana for eight years. Cartwright was brought in to control a labor force which ranges from 700 to some 1,400 employees, in a steady three-shift operation. His campus has produced 25 million coolers annually. Of Igloo’s 300 different products, there are thousands of individual

parts to make: molded bodies, lids and liners. They, literally, have an infinite number of sizes of small injection parts. Cartwright watches over some 50 blow molding systems, 48 injection molding systems, and 26 other manufacturing systems, or a total of 124 systems. More than half of Igloo’s space -- 781,850 SF --is devoted to distribution; 509,100 SF to manufacturing, and 46,200 SF to office. It has had a facility north of I-10 and West Loop since 1978, but headed west, to Katy, in 2006. There likely are other expansion moves in the prospect, executives hinted.

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“They will be carrying my products in four locations, with a possibility of expanding to other stores. The first stores to carry my products are in Richmond and Rosenberg. This has been so exciting, so heartfelt, and I believe now my daughter and I are going to be OK. I believe we have made it over a very big hill we have been struggling to get over for a very, very long time. I think we have made it,” Cavazos said. Through her faith in God and so many prayers and support of friends and loyal customers, she also has more to celebrate. “I just celebrated my first year of being cancer free. I also celebrated my 50th birthday in September, and my teenage daughter gives grace for all that she has, and while we still may lose our home, I know no matter where we end up calling home, my daughter and I are going to be just fine. Through the grace of God, we are going to survive,”Cavazos said. Walgreens will be carrying Lola-Rose products by the end of October 2012, until then, products remain available at the Richmond Post Office, 310 Morton Street, Richmond. Igloo was founded in 1947 with a simple aim, to make metal water cans for oil field workers. By 1960 Igloo started rectangular metal ice chests with plastic liners, and then went to plastic outer shells. Igloo coolers have been a popular family item throughout the country ever since. But Igloo now is offering hundreds of items in a myriad of shapes, sizes and colors, and they are causing excitement in the retail industry nationwide. Its executives believe their innovations will expand an already thriving company. “We expect to become more involved with the Katy community,” Cartwright said. “We have been well received and we plan to give back .”

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Ribbon Cuttings Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance The Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance recently conducted ribbon cuttings at Si Environmental, LLC, Mi Casa Mexican CafĂŠ and Briarwood Crossing by Long Lake, Ltd.

Si Environmental, LLC (6420 Reading Rd., Rosenberg): From left: Alicia Casias, Eric Edmunds, Tom Wilson, Lisa Matthews, Janice Knight, Ross madia, Matt Ontiveros, Melissa Tipton, Janet Scudder, Rosenberg Mayor Vincent Morales; Claude Leatherwood, Gene Hoot, Wan Alexander, Jeff Trinker, Rosenberg City Councilman Tom Sutter; Rosenberg City Councilman Dwayne Grigar; Jeff Haley, Mike Flory, Terry Crockett, Eloise Lucas, Keith Swallers, Mike McCroskey, Cynthia Bartholomew, Rick Van Dyke, Lou Jackson, Mark Foltz, Cathy Pitts, Blake Greer, Brian Ellis, Gilbert Limones, Justin Morales, Rick Marriott, Adam Traweek, Shirley Jackson, Shanta Kuhl, Kenny Kucherka, Erica Tirado, Mike Thornhill, and Jean Machann, Kelly Shelton.

Mi Casa Mexican CafĂŠ (4511 Avenue H, Rosenberg): From left: Kelly Shelton, Darrell Karnopp, Eloise Lucas, Gilbert Limones, Jennifer DeDear, Liz Moreno, Eric Edmunds, Rob Clark, Brian Ellis, Tom Wilson, Jason Brensing, Matt Ontiveros, Erica Tirado, Reynaldo Cardenas, Suzanne Loehr, Melissa Tipton, Blake Greer, Ashley Long, Lou Jackson, Amador Rodriguez, Mike McCroskey, Alicia Casias, Lisa Matthews, Daniel Diaz, Ritu Verma, Fabiola Diaz, and Shanta Kuhl.

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Briarwood Crossing (2814 Finwood Dr., Rosenberg): From left: Steve Sparks; Rob Quarles, Becky Savois, Clay Alexander, Kelly Shelton, Lisa Matthews, Lou Jackson, Eric Edmunds, Jim Craven, Adrienne Gonzalez, Tom Wilson, Michelle Moore, Liz Moreno, Barbara Gallo, Shirley Jackson, Shannon Kayfesh, Kandice Gremillion, Jeff Charbonneau, Cornerstone Mortgage, and Dave Ciarella.

ALAN SANDERSEN... continued from page 17

white and making it easily available can help prevent misunderstandings, and emphasize the point that integrity comes first. An ethics policy might include provisions that state expectations for employees regarding the proper use of the business’s assets and their duty to avoid situations that would constitute a conflict of interest, such as hiring a family member. Harnessing strong internal controls Internal controls are processes designed to provide a reasonable assurance that your financial statements are credible and accurate, that your company complies with applicable laws, and that its operations are efficient. A strong system of internal controls might seem most applicable in larger businesses, but it’s critical to smaller companies, which often are less able to withstand a fraudulent or criminal act. Internal controls help safeguard the company’s assets and ensure that decisions made by management, lenders and investors are based on accurate information. A fundamental element of strong internal controls is to segregate duties within financial

operations and reporting. While this won’t eliminate the possibility of fraud, having two people involved in an operation makes it more difficult to pull off. An employee who issues checks or payments, for example, shouldn’t

Fraud is more prevalent than you might think According to the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners’ 2010 Report to the Nations on Occupational Fraud and Abuse, businesses lose on average about 5% of their annual revenue to fraud. The median loss suffered by U.S. businesses with less than 1,000 employees was $150,000. The median loss at companies with between 1,000 and 9,999 employees was $60,000. The report, available at http://www. acfe.com, notes that smaller businesses are particularly vulnerable to fraud because they lack the internal controls typically in place at larger firms.

also be responsible for recording those transactions. When checks arrive via mail, one employee should log them and another deposit them. It’s also critical that management take a keen interest in the business’s financials. Employees should know that management regularly — and, ideally, randomly — looks in financial reports for transactions that raise a red flag, such as an unexplained spike in expenses. Sustaining an ethical workplace A tone at the top that stresses integrity, a written ethics policy, a commitment to hiring employees who take ethics seriously and a system of strong internal controls will help you develop and sustain an ethical workplace environment. Work with a business consultant and CPA to ensure that your ethics policies and internal controls are operating as intended. Alan Sandersen is a columnist for the Fort Bend Business Journal and is a Partner with Sandersen Knox & Co, L.L.P., Certified Public Accountants. He can be reached at 281-2423232. www.sktx.com. +

KOLBE CURTICE... continued from page 15

3) GAAP Accounting Rules A new standard for real estate accounting is expected to be completed later this year and enacted in 2013. The new standard will have a dramatic impact on future commercial real estate lease and purchase decisions. The standard will require that companies book leases as assets and liabilities on their balance sheets. The change will significantly impact the balance sheets of companies that lease commercial space. This could have a number of implications, including weakening companies in the eyes of investors and activating debt covenants with lenders. It could also affect company credit ratings. While many ratings agencies say they already take into consideration rent obligations, the new standard will require additional disclosures that could shed new light on lease terms. 4) Inflation and a Rising Interest Rate Environment Inflation causes money to lose value, and any investment that involves cash flows over time (rent streams) is exposed to this inflation risk. The ramifications of this can be serious. During the inflationary periods of the early and late ‘70s, real estate provided an excellent hedge against inflation. Real estate prices basically kept pace or

outpaced CPI growth during these periods while the stock market stagnated. A dollar would have been smartly invested in real estate during this time. Looking at a more recent time period (19861991), the stock market outpaced real estate price growth at almost all times (the exception being the ‘87 market crash). In this case, in hindsight, a dollar would have been more smartly invested in the stock market than in real estate. Historically speaking, however, real estate investment has been a good inflation hedge, particularly during periods of high inflation when other market growth stagnates. Commercial real estate investment, although seemingly increasingly more difficult to navigate,

offers a number of tremendous opportunities for a) attractive investment returns, b) leveraging investment equity, c) deferring taxes and d) hedging against volatility in other investment alternatives. It is more important now than ever before, however, to build a professional real estate team to assist in navigating clear of potential pitfalls. Kolbe M. Curtice CCIM, CLS is a licensed Texas Real Estate Broker and is the Managing Director of Colliers- Fort Bend., 15999 City Walk, Suite 250, Sugar Land, Texas, 77479. He can be reached at 281-494-4769 phone / 281-494-3227 fax / Kolbe. curtice@colliers.com.

ELSA MAXEY... continued from page 19

testimonials from those buying products, also on video. Who doesn’t want to know how other people use a product or service they really like and what they have to say...visually? Why, this can be better than reality TV because there’s some serious thought that goes into planning a video that ends up getting posted online. Star Digital Studios is in the business of making videos. Yours, theirs, and everybody’s, and we all know we’re in the middle

of a social media evolution. Let us help your business be more successful with video!. Elsa Malakoff Maxey is a contributor to the Fort Bend Business Journal and the Fort Bend Star. She is the Executive Producer of Star Digital Studios and can be reached at 281-690-4280. Visit www. starvideoproductions.com or email elsamaxey@ starvideoproductions.com.

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Advertising

SERVICE DIRECTORY

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

Acupuncture Mirvana Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs 281-491-0110 www.mirvacu.com Email: info@mirvacu.com. 736 Hwy 6, Suite 103, Sugar Land TX 77478. Mirvana Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs is an upscale, contemporary clinic where patients receive individualized services for a variety of conditions including Fertility, Pain Management, Stress/ Anxiety, Sleep Disorders, Menopause, and Allergies/ Asthma to name a few. The clinic is reminiscent of a spa; soothing decor and natural material enhance the relaxation and healing therapies. Mirvana Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs combines ancient medicine with modern technology including 24 hr. on-line scheduling, email reminders for appointments and an electronic patient database.

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. ASE Blue Seal Certified, State Inspection Station, Diesel Repair, Open Saturdays 8-3. Charlton’s Auto Body Repair and Vehicle Detailing 281-499-1126 www.charltonsbodyrepair.com Chuck Charlton, 1131 Staffordshire @ 5th Street, Stafford, Texas 77477, Charbody@aol.com, Fax: 281-499-1694, Complete collision repair. Frame & Unibody straightened. Expert computer color matching. Custom painting & pin stripping. Honest service. 79 Years Strong and 3 Generations Proud! Colony One Auto Center 281-980-4440 www.colonyoneauto.com Rod Tate, 1131 Dulles Avenue, Stafford, TX 77477, Fax: 281-261-0048, Complete state of the art automotive repair & maintenance facility.

First Tire & Automotive 281-313-2886 www.firsttireandauto.com Craig Popp, owner, 3 Sugar Land Locations. 960 Eldridge, 281-313-2886 & 2303 Williams Trace Blvd. 281-980-2666 (First Colony), 20015 Southwest Freeway. 281-343-5666 (Greatwood), Diagnostic testing and evaluation, Manufacturer’s routine recommended maintenance, domestic and foreign vehicle repairs, AAA approved, ASE certified. Ask about our Fleet Service!

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

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

Country Clubs & Golf Courses Quail Valley Golf Club 281-403-8518 (Direct) 281-403-5910 (Golf Shop) www.golfquailvalley.com Quail Valley Golf Course offers 36 holes of championship golf, a full practice facility, lessons and a fully stocked golf shop. The Missouri City Community Center at Quail Valley Golf Course hosts the Bluebonnet Grille at the 37th Hole, multiple event rooms as well as the 300 seat Magnolia Ballroom. Quail Valley Golf Course and the Missouri City Community Center are the perfect sites for your next meeting or big event. For more information visit www.golfquailvalley.com Quail Valley Golf Course 2880 La Quinta Dr. is located at Missouri City, TX 77459. Riverbend Country Club 281-269-2526 www.riverbendcountryclub.org triciarbcc@gmail.com. Tricia Hawks, 1214 Dulles Avenue, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Conveniently located in the heart of Sugar Land, Riverbend Country Club is just 25 minutes south of downtown Houston, Texas. Established in 1957, Riverbend continues its tradition as Fort Bend County’s only member owned club. Whether you’re looking for championship golf, fine dining, pools, tennis, fitness facilities or a wide variety of social and golf activities Riverbend is definitely the place to belong.

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The Houstonian Golf & Country Club 281-494-4245 www.houstoniangolf.com A private golf and country club providing the area’s finest golf course and golf practice facilities along with fitness, pool, tennis, spa and dining amenities. Golf and Club (non-golf) Memberships are currently available.

Floral Flowers By Tiffany LLC 281-208-8681 www.FlowersByTiffanyStafford.com 508 F.M. 1092, Suite D, Stafford, TX 77477. 2011 CMUS Power Award Winner – Internet Customer Service Award. Beautiful Flowers for all occasions, Weddings, Events, Funerals, Plants, Fruit & Gourmet Baskets. Member of the Better Business Bureau and Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce. Mention the Fort Bend Business Journal for a special discount.

Golf Carts / Mobility Scooters CBC Golf Cart Services, Inc. - 281-494-1164 Mobility 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

Glass Block/Showers/Windows South Texas Glass Block - 281-355-8882 www. stglassblock.com We offer complete glass block solutions, providing excellent service and product to all of our customers. We have been in business since 1995, serving the entire Houston and surrounding areas. Our excellent workmanship is unmatched both in the commercial and residential arena. No job is too big for South Texas Glass Block.

Home Health Care Texas State Healthcare 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”

List your business in th Fort Bend/K e Business Jo aty urnal’s SERVICE D IRECTORY for only $30 0 for the whole year.

Prince Benefits Group - 713-884-8399 www.princebenefitsgroup.com Partner with a strategically uncompromising and experienced insurance agency that specializes in employee benefits. We help you attract the right talent and keep them happy! The jewel in our crown of insurance is group insurance but we offer the complete spectrum of benefits for groups and individuals: health, dental, life, vision, disability, 401k, general liability, property, worker’s compensation, umbrella, commercial auto, COBRA administration, HR compliance, etc. Prince Benefits Group provides your company the leverage it needs to get what it needs. Insurance Solutions of Texas 281-565-2222 • 281-341-5060 www.insurancesolutionsoftexas.com Jay Harris, Auto, Home, Business, Flood Insurance. 14140 Southwest Freeway, Suite 150, Sugar Land, Texas 77478. 281-565-2222, Fax 281-565-3333. 2515 Ave. H, Rosenberg, Texas 77471. 281-341-5060, 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.

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

Medical Supplies

Pharmacies

Synicare Medical 281-378-8040 www.synicaremedical.com synicaremedical@yahoo.com. 20333 State Highway 249, Suite 200, Houston, TX 77070, Fax 888-397-1240. Synicare Medical is focused on providing high-quality service and customer satisfaction. Our entire team is committed to meeting those needs with professionalism and integrity. Synicare Medical specializes in durable medical equipment,medical supplies, and third party billing.We accept all private insurance and strive to meet the needs of every patient in a professional and caring way. Synicare Medical is owned and operated by Synicare Group LLC.

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

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.)

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 tomw@johnsondev.com. Tom Wilcox, 4855 Riverstone Blvd, Missouri City, Texas 77459, Fax: 281-499-8704, Luxurious waterside living in Fort Bend from $200s to the many millions. Jeanne Gregory, CRS, GRI 281-344-8918 www.jeannegregory.com jeannegregory@earthlink.net. 14905 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, Texas 77478, Fax: 281-242-6754, Re/Max Southwest. Residential real estate sales & corporate relocation. Jennifer Weaver, ABR, CRS, GRI 281-207-5037 www.jenniferweaver.com RE/MAX Southwest, 14905 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, Texas 77478. Residential sales and corporate relocation since 1979.

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SERVICE DIRECTORY

Insurance Agencies

SERVICE DIRECTORY

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

Remodeling / Outdoor Living Living Improvements 281-499-7000 www.living-improvements.com AWARD WINNING - 2010 & 2011 Houston’s BEST “Outdoor Living Space” Living Improvements’ commitment to excellence makes us the perfect fit for your building needs. We have over 200 years cumulative in-house experience in the remodeling and construction industry making us highly skilled, professional and detail oriented striving to exceed our customer’s expectations. We feature outdoor living spaces, custom homes, interior and exterior renovations. Our commitment to excellence is just one of the reasons we have over 5,000 satisfied customers. SERVING FORT BEND & SURROUNDING COUNTIES FOR OVER 35 YEARS.

Skin Care NeriumAD Age Defying Treatment 863-673-5256 www.shortmouthyblond.nerium.com NeriumAD improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone, enlarged pores, aging and sun damaged skin. Created by a local hospital to aide in the treatment of skin cancer the effects of this cream are beyond amazing! Join the network marketing program that is second to none - get in on the ground floor today or just experience the best anti-aging cream you will ever find!! 30 day money back guarantee! See the results for yourself at shortmouthyblond.nerium.com.

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

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

Aling’s Hakka Chinese Cuisine Welcome to Sugar Land’s first Hakka Chinese Restaurant! Using family recipes, Chefs Lin Motiwala and Gary Yan present this unique “Chindian” cuisine, a delicious fusion of both Chinese and Indian cookery (without the curry undertones). From savory steamed or pan fried Dumplings to traditional Indian-style Hakka dishes, as prepared in Bombay/Pune, like Chicken Lollipop, as well as American Chop Suey, each dish is prepared using the freshest ingredients to bring you a dining experience like no other. Lunch specials start at $6.95 for a 4 course meal. Open Tuesday - Sunday. Lunch: 11am-3pm (Tues-Fri). Dinner: 5:30pm-10pm (Tues-Thurs & Sun) and 11pm (Fri & Sat). Aling’s is located in the First Colony Commons shopping center at Hwy 59 and Williams Trace Blvd. between Home Depot and Office Depot. 15425 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land. Call 281-242-0432. www.alingshakka.com. $$ AURA Restaurant Chef/Owner Frédéric Perrier brings over 30 years experience to his newest venture - AURA. In an upscale yet casually comfortable setting, Innovative American Cuisine reigns and is highlighted in the numerous Daily Specials. AURA features only the finest, freshest ingredients. A three course prix fixe lunch for $12.95 to Mussles Marinieres, Roasted Red Snapper or Filet Mignon with Cognac Peppercorn Sauce. No need to go to Houston or into Sugar Land for a truly high quality dining experience... you will easily find it at AURA (without ‘Big Restaurant’ prices!) at Township Square - Missouri City. Lunch Mon-Sat 11-2. Dinner MonThurs 5-9 and Fri-Sat 5-10. Please call for Reservations &/or Catering ~ 3400 FM 1092, 81-403-AURA (2872). $$ • WB BLU Restaurant | Lounge (New Listing) BLU boasts a globally influenced, Euro-Asian menu from acclaimed Executive Chef Junnajet “Jett” Hurapan. With a diverse background that spans cuisine from Thailand to New American and Mediterranean, Chef Jett’s dinner menu offers an extensive array of both small and larger plates perfect for sharing. Looking for a great deal, come enjoy an incredible three-course lunch menu for $12 Tues - Fri, and $4 happy hour menu Tues - Sun. BLU recently started a Live Jazz Sunday Brunch from 11am to 3pm! Visit www.blusugarland.com ~ 2248 Texas Drive - 281.903.7324. $$ • WB Candelari’s Pizzeria Albert Candelari began making sausage over 50 years ago. As the years have passed the flavor remains the same, which is why Candelari’s is the “King of Sausages”! They take that delicious Italian sausage and put it in pizzas, pastas, and sandwiches. Enjoy appetizers, salads, pastas, sandwiches, pizzas and desserts in there dining room, large patio, or full bar with large screen TV’s. Happy hour is Monday - Thursday 3 to 7pm. This casual dining experience is available at two locations in Fort Bend. Call either location for take-out or delivery. 7425 Hwy 6 S (Just North of Sienna) 832-947-0440 / 6825 S Fry Rd (Fry & 99) 281-395-6746. www.candelaris.com. $ • FB

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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. $$ • FB Karl’s At The Riverbend Romantic Dining in the Country, across the creek from a horse farm. Swiss Chef Karl Camenzind’s menu features Angus steaks, Prime Rib, Wienerschnitzel, Trout Almondine and other fresh fish, Rack of Lamb, Steak and other wild game, Atkins specials, a budget weeknight menu offered along with the regular menu, plus a wonderful Sunday Brunch Buffet. Company Luncheons and Rehearsal Dinners invited. Open Tues-Sat for Dinner and Sunday Brunch 5011 FM 723 Richmond 281-238-9300 www.karlsrb.com Read our reviews at www.b4-u-eat.com. $$ • FB Las Alamedas Restaurant & Cantina Las Alamedas Restaurant and Bar Continues the long standing tradition of fine Mexican food and beverages that began in 1980, is now relocated in Katy at The La Centerra Center. Join us seven days a week for our warm hospitality and anything from brunch on the weekends to private corporate events and everything in between. We are a total scratch kitchen featuring an extensive selection of authentic dishes. We are family friendly with a great children’s menu. Our patios were voted one of the top two in the Houston area. Please visit our website and like us on Facebook! The only thing missing is you! We are open for lunch and dinner seven days a week and we serve brunch Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 2pm. Our bar and lounge offers full meal service from open to close. Hours of operation are, Monday thru Thursday from 11am to 10pm, Friday from 11am to 11pm, Saturday from 10am to 11pm, Sunday from 10am to 9pm. BAR 11am till closing. 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd., Suite F-140, Katy, TX 77494. 281-347-3030. Reservations accepted by phone and on line by visiting our web site www.lasalamedas.com. $$ • FB Las Haciendas Mexican Bar & Grill Santos Escobar and his brother Ascension Escobar serve up dozens of heaping traditional gourmet Mexican plates. Lunch Specials run weekdays from 11am - 3pm. Great margaritas, fajitas and much more. Catering available as well as a party room for private parties. • 12821 Southwest Freeway. 281240-3060. $ • 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

Nizam Kitchen Not your Average Indian Cuisine! Welcome to the best cuisine from two of the most vibrant cities in South Asia -- Hyderabad in India and Karachi in Pakistan. Hydrabadi Cuisine boasts of Biryani, Haleem, Mughlai and Tandoori specialities that are reminiscent of the lavish entertainment by the aristocrats. Combining the best of both of these exotic cities, you will be treated like royalty when you step into Nizam’s Kitchen. We will surely look the other way if you are tempted to lick your lips in anticipation when the aromas come wafting through and your mouth begins to water... Open TUE. - THU. 11am-3pm/5pm-9:30pm; FRI. - SUN. 11am-10pm, MON. - CLOSED. We are 100% Zabihah Halal. Located at 5211 Highway 6 south, Suite F., Missouri City, Tx 77459. 832284-7007. Nizamskitchen.net $$ Panda Garden Panda Garden Restaurant, the three times winner for Best Oriental Restaurant in Fort Bend County, located at 3563 Highway 6 in Kroger Center, provides a warm, casual environment to best service all diners. The goal of our restaurant is to offer 100% satisfactory to the customers with variety selection of popular Hunan Cuisine. “We offer fresh, made from scratch meals that is unforgettably delicious!” Manager Kenny adds. The restaurant offers accommodations for small group meetings and wonderful party tray for catering to the near by businesses and schools. Panda Garden is open 7 days a week on Mon. – Sat.: 11a.m. – 10 p.m. and Sun. 11a.m. – 9:30p.m. Delivery is available everyday with a min. of $15.00 purchase. A lunch special is offered daily as well as the full regular menu offerings. 3563 Hwy 6 @ Williams Trace, 281-265-0303. $ • WB Post Oak Grill Restaurant & Bar The Rios Family invites you to come and experience the same quality, ambiance and service that you have at the original Post Oak Grill. Join us for a wonderful culinary adventure featuring fine prime beef, chops, fresh seafood, soups, sandwiches, salads, and outstanding wine selection. Open lunch & dinner - Monday-Thursday 11:00-10:00pm, Friday 11:00-11:00p.m., Saturday 4:00-11pm, Sunday 10:00-9:00pm, & Sunday Brunch 10:00-2:00pm. Happy Hour 4:00-7:00pm. 1550 Lake Pointe Parkway, Sugar Land • Call 281-491-2901. www.PostOakGrillSugarland.com $$ • FB Tradicao Brazilian Steakhouse Tradicao Brazilian Steakhouse is the best new steakhouse in Fort Bend. Tradicao, pronounced Tra-dee-son, was named after the Brazilian word for “tradition” and founded on the idea to continue this traditional way of grilling. They are a family owned and operated churracaria whose goal is to make sure your dining experience is one you will never forget. Their prixe fixe menu includes 14 cuts of perfectly grilled meats brought to your table side, a large salad bar and hot sides. Tradicao would like to invite you to come join them, sit back and relax. Lunch Mon-Fri 11am-2pm, Sat Closed, Sun 12-3pm. Dinner Mon-Thurs 5-9:30pm, Fri 5-10pm, Sat 4-10pm, Sun 5-9pm. Phone: 281-277-9292. 12000 Southest Freeway, Meadows Place, TX, 77477, www.TradicaoSteakhouse.com.

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ATTENTION : Fort Bend High School Seniors

CONGRATULATIONS! Katherine Knake

Congratulations to Katherine Knake, a graduate of Fort Bend Christian Academy, for being selected as Texas Direct Auto’s “Scholarship Star” for November! Jessica DeMarr, Director of Business Development, presents the $1000 check. While at Fort Bend Christian Academy, Katherine served as editor-in-chief of the yearbook staff, manager of the varsity volleyball team and a member of the varsity golf team. Katherine was also an active member of the National Honors Society, National English Honors Society, Interact Club and Big Sister Little Sister Club. Katherine has received multiple awards for her academic performance, including Academic Excellence awards in Biology, Bible and Yearbook. Katherine plans to pursue a degree in Education or Communications at Texas Tech University. Katherine was selected as part of Texas Direct Auto’s commitment to educational excellence through the “Scholarship Stars” program. Application details are listed below.

Register now and win a

1,000

$

SCHOLARSHIP! Find complete details and forms at

www.fortbendfocus.com

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Dr. Pierre Chevray Reconstructive Surgeon

Dr. Clive Shkedy Radiation Oncologist

Dr. Deanna McDonald OB/GYN

Joan Yanker Breast Cancer Survivor

Dr. Sandra Templeton Breast Surgeon

Dr. Jorge Darcourt Oncologist

Dr. Stephen Phillips Breast Radiologist

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Breast Center

16655 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-242-PINK (7465) MethodistSugarLand.com

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