November 2013 - The Business Lifestyle Magazine Digital Edition

Volume 31 • No. 11

THE BUSINESS LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

November 2013

A Sweet Reunion Atlantic Trust’s Jennifer Kane Combines Passions for Texas and Wealth Management—in Two Places She Calls Home

INSIDE STORIES / FEATURES

Attorneys Legal Eagles Fogle Manufacturing and others bid up Fort Bend “Stock” market BNSF plans $240 million improvements Seaway Crude prepares to bury 30-inch pipeline Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter Data Beat Information

$

4.95

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

Event of the Year: iFest Live 2012 Marketing Campaign of the Year: iFest Live 2012 Billboard of the Year: Home & Garden Celebration 2013

It’s Crystal Clear.

Aliana is Once Again Recognized for Crafting the Best.

Aliana continues to garner accolades, adding three more Greater Houston Builders Association trophies to our growing list of local, state and national awards. Live the best life in the best community in Fort Bend County.

Visit AlianaHouston.com today.

grand parkway at w. airport · new homes from the $190s

Editor’s Preview

by Sharon Wallingford

Rewards, awards and reunions Sharon Wallingford

scan with you smart phone to launch website

L

et our thanksgiving tables be set, traditional, tasty feasts served and blessings bestowed. Residents of Fort Bend County can be thankful for every day of the year, but this year November 11 marks Veterans Day as we salute those who protect our country and provide us our freedom and November 28 which is Thanksgiving Day and Hanukkah.

More and more gratitude can be acknowledged over our cutting edge ideas and as we reflect on all the prestigious honors our county consistently receives. We must also consider all the awards so many of our large and small businesses and employees garner and add to our professional notoriety and global way of living.

Don’t miss reading how our own Jennifer Kane returned to take her place at Atlantic Trust.

She achieved her goal by combining her passion for her home state and a wealth management career. The two sound as endeared as we Texans considered oil and gas, steak and potatoes, and rocket science and space at the tops of our lists for so many decades. Prior to that it was saddles and rodeos, cotton and sugar cane. Kane adds a new twist and has a holistic view of the future.

Continue with the highlights of the first surgery completed to restore a patient’s paralyzed face, how Fogle Manufacturing, along with other

businesses, bid up the Fort Bend “Stock” Market for youngsters at the annual fair, announcements of major expansions, trips to our global counterparts, and a visit with nature at Brazos Bend State Park located in our own backyards.

Become introduced and learn the latest about our featured Legal Eagles in the county and our good faith negotiators at Contract Land Staff when work involves right-ofway easements. And when pipelines arrive near your front door, be aware that Seaway Crude is preparing to bury a 30-inch pipeline through the middle western portion of the county to make for one unhappy neighbor. There’s still more. Does Fort Bend never sleep?

For fun and fundraising remember to swing your club in the Fort Bend Chamber Golf Challenge November 4, to vote by November 5, attend the Fort Bend Strong Celebration on November 9, ride in Bike the Bend on November 24, and see KCS’ Holiday Express when it arrives in Kendleton on November 30.

Enjoy the fall weather and take time to visit and enjoy your friends, family and co-workers.

We have places to see, work to do, and life to enjoy.

Keep the cash register ringing.

Sharon K. Wallingford

The Editorial Advisory Board

2

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

Becky Munnell President and CEO Blue Jungle Marketing

Jacqueline Baly President and CEO Baly Projects, LLC

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

Dee Koch Grant Officer The George Foundation

Tim Stubenrouch President First Community Bank

November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

John Whitmore Whitmore Company

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

We’re taking mammograms to a whole new dimension.

3 - D MAM MOG R AM S

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

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

See if a mammogram is the answer for you.

Call 281-637-7001 today for an appointment.

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

C

NTENTS Volume 31 • Number 11 • November 2013

COVER STORY

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

A Sweet Reunion Atlantic Trust’s Jennifer Kane Combines Passions for Texas and Wealth Management — in Two Places She Calls Home

pg.

PUBLISHER

32

Special Features Technical Business..................................................... pg Attorneys Legal Eagles.............................................. pg

Michael Fredrickson ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Diane Strehl Jessica Kij Jerry Poscovsky ACCOUNTING

11 15

Lisa Long EDITOR Sharon Wallingford CONTRIBUTORS

Inside Stories

B.J. Pollock

Fort Bend job growth and development reflects bright future for business..................................................................... 6 Surgery for patient’s paralyzed face improves quality of life................... 8 Fogle Manufacturing and others bid up FBCF “Stock” market........... 10 KCS’ Holiday Express to visit Fort Bend November 30th..................... 12 14th annual Bike the Bend for Literacy....................................................... 18 Memorial Hermann Sugar Land plans major expansion....................... 20 The “Good Faith Negotiator” leads Right-of-Way projects.................. 24 Seaway Crude prepares to bury 30-inch pipeline .................................. 30 Officer Captain Mike Patton retires.............................................................. 44

Julie Vrazel ART DIRECTOR Joey Belleza GRAPHIC DESIGNER / WEB Jan Carlo Arcillas

Departments Newsworthy................................................................... 36-39 Names in the News........................................................ 42-44 Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter.............. 45-52

ON THE COVER Atlantic Trust’s Jennifer Kane Combines Passions for Texas and Wealth Management — in Two Places She Calls Home

Data Beat....................................................................... 56-59 Service Directory.......................................................... 60-62 Meet & Eat - Food, Drink & Entertainment Guide.................................................... 63-64

4

November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

©2013 Fort Bend Business Journal Magazine No material from this publication be copied or in any way reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

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

Scan with your smart phone to launch website

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

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

5

Fort Bend job growth and development reflects bright future for business

By Jeff Samples President of IBC Bank-Houston

F

rom Sugar Land to Rosenberg and Missouri City to Fulshear, business is booming all over Fort Bend County, causing significant job growth across the entire region. This past March, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics announced that Fort Bend County was ranked No. 6 in the nation for job growth.

An influx of job opportunities, affordable housing and a strong community packed with exemplary schools and recreational facilities are a few reasons why businesses have continued to flock to the area.

IBC Bank is proud to invest in this community by offering financial services to Fort Bend County businesses so they can continue this upward growth. We have three locations within Fort Bend County and have been serving the Greater Houston-Area since

1997. IBC Bank’s mission is to “do more” and one way we deliver on that promise is by supplying businesses in Fort Bend County with the capital they need to continue the growth of this community. One way IBC Bank contributes to the advancement of Fort Bend County is by helping developers fund new commercial projects through construction loans and real estate loans.

This was especially important for real estate developers during the economic recession because of the impact it had on their industry locally and nationwide.

“The economic downturn we experienced starting in 2008, brought out real concerns on how our development and construction business would hold up in Texas and specifically in Fort Bend County,” said Scott Weaver of Rubicon Realty Group. “Without IBC Bank’s support throughout those years, it would have been a much more difficult time.”

IBC Bank recently assisted Rubicon Realty Group, a boutique commercial real estate firm in Fort Bend County, on a 112-acre mixed-use commercial development in Sugar Land at the corner of U.S. 90 and Highway 6. The development includes a Hilton Garden Inn, several restaurants and retailers and is anchored by HEB. For this project IBC supplied an array of services including the original land loan, individual development loans and the infrastructure for the utilities.

“Rubicon Realty Group has a certain criteria when searching for a lender for our projects,” said Scott Weaver. “We want to develop a relationship with a bank who is experienced with our type of business, in the area’s where we are actively developing projects. It is critical that our lender has a deep understanding of the commercial development process. We found a true partner in IBC Bank.”

Let Salata Sugar Land host your next catered event!

NO DELIVERY CHARGE

with any catering order over $100!

The Next Generation Salad Bar

May not be combined with other offers. Coupon must be presented. Minimum may apply. Not valid on online orders. Offer valid at Salata Sugar Land.

2170 Town Square Place ¬ Sugar Land, TX 77479 (832) 886-4582 ¬ (832) 886-4591 fax Mon – Fri 11 am– 9 pm ¬ Sun 11 am – 7 pm For more information about catering visit salata.com

Buy one gallon of Salata signature tea or lemonade with your order, receive a second gallon FREE, 11/1–12/31

6

November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

7

First of its kind in Fort Bend

Surgery for patient’s paralyzed face improves quality of life Preoperative photo of Mr. Goehring with right facial paralysis.

H

ouston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is proud to announce its first facial reanimation and rehabilitation surgery for a paralyzed face.

The procedure was performed by Dr. Jon Mathy, board certified plastic surgeon on staff at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

Gerald Goehring had been living with a paralyzed face for about a year. “When Mr. Goehring first came to see me, he was miserable,” said Dr. Mathy. “Treatment of an aggressive skin cancer required sacrifice of the nerve that allows him to move the entire right side of his face. He was grateful to have his cancer behind him, but his quality of life was poor.”

“Without muscle tone to counteract gravity, his lower eyelid slid down his cheek leaving the white of his eye constantly exposed and irritated. His cheek had fallen into his nose obstructing his breathing, and the corner of his mouth had fallen causing constant drooling. He was unhappy with his appearance and had lost the ability to express emotion with half his face.”

Dr. Mathy completed the first of a series of procedures to address these problems in early November 2012. “We sought to improve both form and function in all parts of his face. For his drooping eyebrow, we performed a brow lift. We helped him regain eyelid closure with a modified blepharoplasty, an operation to correct defects of the eyelid, including transferring a piece of cartilage from inside his nose to help prop up his sagging lower eyelid. We opened up his nasal airway by resuspending his cheek with a deep plane facelift.”

8

Jon Mathy, M.D., Gerald Goehring and Jennifer Lee, P.A.

“His lips had descended so far he was experiencing oral incompetence. He was having problems eating, and he had no ability to smile. For this, we did a functional muscle transfer. We borrowed a working muscle from another part of his face and transferred it to the corner of his mouth. This is a great procedure because it resuspends his lips and restores the capacity to move his mouth. It allows him to smile,” said Mathy.

“I already look and feel better,” said Goehring. “Dr. Mathy and the staff at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital provided me with amazing care, before and after the surgery. It’s been life-changing for me.”

Dr. Mathy’s unique background and experience allowed him to tailor Goehring’s treatment. Our faces are so important for our sense of self, for engaging socially, and for supporting vision, breathing and eating. “It is gratifying to offer procedures that can help improve normal facial form and function,” November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

said Dr. Mathy. In both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, the goal is all about improving the patient’s quality of life. “It’s been wonderful to give him back a sense of normalcy, and to offer continuity of care so close to home,” said Mathy. In addition to cancer patients like Goehring, other patients with facial asymmetry or paralysis due to stroke, trauma, or congenital deformities can benefit from this type of surgery.

Born and raised in Sugar Land, Dr. Mathy takes great pride in his community. After receiving his undergraduate degree at Duke University, his medical degree at Stanford University School of Medicine, plastic surgery training at Harvard Medical School, and additional fellowship training in head and neck surgery and microvascular surgery, Dr. Mathy returned to Sugar Land to be with his family and serve his community.

For more information about Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, visit houstonmethodist.org/sugarland.

FREE TELEPHONE SYSTEM

Show Us Your Telephone Bill!

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

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

CALL FOR A QUOTE

Business Telephone Systems www.prostarcomm.com Voice Data Video

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

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

Business Telephone Systems

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

9

Fogle Manufacturing along with others bid up county “Stock” market

By B. J. Pollock

T

o Buddy and Dorothy Fogle, investing in Fort Bend County’s leaders of tomorrow means supporting its youth today. Accomplishing that task is simple, but not cheap. In the past five years, the owners of Fogle Manufacturing, 10101 Mula Rd. in Stafford, have easily spent three-quarters of a million dollars bidding on animals in the Junior Livestock Show at the Fort Bend County Fair.

This year alone, they bid a total of about $270,000, but it wasn’t all on grand and reserve champions.

“I try to tell Buddy not to get just the grand champions because somebody’s Buddy Fogle going to buy those for sure. I tell him to save his money for the lower ones who just need $1,000 to help pay the feed bills; but the way he is, he bids on everything so I just let him do whatever,” Dorothy said with a laugh.

My, does he!

Fogle Manufacturing not only bought the Grand Champion American Steer shown

by Mason Lee of Cinco Ranch FFA for $10,000, but also bought: Needville Jr. FFA member Macie Bean’s Grand Champion Pen of Rabbits for $4,500; Kempner FFA member Allison Kubenka’s Grand Champion Swine for $3,500; Needville Jr. FFA member Mason Todd’s Reserve Champion American Steer for $5,000; and Clements FFA member Lauren Elliott’s Reserve Champion All Other Breeds Steer for $4,500.

He bought plenty of other animals that night as well, but brought the house down with a bid of $40,000 on the 46th entry, a lamb shown by Brooke Magana of Dulles FFA, and a bid of $50,000 on the last entry of the evening, No. 188, a goat shown by

10

Blake Gilbert of Needville 4-H. While the Fogles are happy to purchase the grand and reserve champions, Buddy said, “The main thing we do is we hang in there for the bottom half of the auction, where the kids don’t hardly get large bids; that’s what we focus on.”

Buddy said he knew Magana, the owner of the $40,000 lamb, but not Gilbert, the owner of the $50,000 goat.

“The last two or three years, me and somebody back there in the back got into a bidding war on the last animal, so that’s what that was about,” he said with a chuckle.

“That’s what it’s all about: We’re trying to support these kids, and one thing that would really be helpful is if the local businesses that bid on the champions wouldn’t all get up and leave after that. If they would stay and at least bid for the last half of the auction, it would be great. I bid on just about everything because it’s so hard for them to get a decent price. I open my bids high so that if that’s the only bid, at least that’s something. There are some people who stay ’til the end like we do, but not many of them buy a lot of stuff.”

The Fogles care so little about the publicity for buying the grand and reserve champions, or any of the other animals they purchase, that they don’t even pose with the sellers for the fair photographer. Instead, they leave that duty to longtime employee Steve Lieblang, who cares for their Arabian racehorses, one of a couple of other businesses the Fogles own.

Dorothy said most of the Arabians horses she owns now are “old show horses” and part of the zoo she and Buddy call “home.”

She raises and sells peacocks in every color of the rainbow - purples, beiges, greens, blues, browns, whites - and has six Australian black swans as well.

“I don’t raise horses anymore, so I decided to get peacocks,” said the jovial zookeeper. “I also have 17 cats that are all rescue cats, and then I just have two dogs.”

Caring for the animals keeps her too busy to spend much time at the manufacturing shop in Stafford, but Buddy said she wouldn’t November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

work there anyway, even if he begged her.

The two shared a laugh over that statement, but then Buddy admitted who the real boss is: “She takes care of the horses and all the animals we have,” he said, “but she’s also in charge of me, so you might say she’s over the shop.”

“To me, we were fortunate that Buddy’s business has taken off and we can afford to do things like the auction,” Dorothy said. “It’s wonderful to help these kids who work hard.

“We’ve worked hard all our lives and know that when you raise animals, its twice as hard.

It’s wonderful to think that all these kid, even the little bitty ones, are out there working all the time. It’s hard to take care of animals and make sure they’re in good health, and it costs a lot of money.”

Folks like the Fogles help ease the financial burden of raising animals for the Fair, which most children do to help fund their college educations.

Fair Manager Susan Sillivan said thanks to the Fogles and all the others who supported the Fair’s auctions, this years event was a record-breaker all the way around.

Totals for all four auction are expected to top $1 million once all the add-ons are totaled. Preliminary figures for the Junior Livestock Auction were $720,900, and freezer sale bids totaled another $71,291 before add-ons.

The Fogles first attended the auction five years ago, when the son of a contractor who was doing work for them sent a letter asking them to consider bidding on the swine he was showing.

“We did, and somehow or other word got out and I don’t know how many letters we’ve gotten every year since then,” Buddy said. “That’s the way it got started, and we’ve enjoyed it ever since.”

The Fogles moved to the Richmond area in 1986 and opened their business in Stafford the following year, making down-hole drilling tools for the oil industry. They have two daughters and five grandchildren, and love living in Fort Bend County.

Special Feature TECHNICAL BUSINESS

AN EMPLOYEE-OWNED COMPANY

713.462.3178

HELPING MAINTAIN THE QUALITY OF LIFE IN OUR COMMUNITIES IDS Engineering Group is a full service civil engineering and surveying firm. Our more than 42 years of experience has been the foundation and springboard to deliver original and complete solutions.

Through our public works practice, we provide a complete portfolio of professional engineering services ranging from preliminary planning and design through construction management.

Through our land development practice, we have successfully completed hundreds of projects ranging from single-family residential, business and industrial parks, to master planned communities.

Our services include: •

Public Works

• •

Land Development Site Development

• • • •

Utility Districts Water Resources Construction Services Surveying

•

Geographic Information Systems

8NEW NAME. SAME COMMITMENT TO QUALITY SERVICE. idsengineeringgroup.com Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

11

Fort Bend Strong Celebration

U.S. Senator John Cornyn slated to deliver keynote address

T

he Central Fort Bend Chamber, like most organizations in Fort Bend County, has greatly benefited from the leadership, creativity and ingenuity that have made the county one of the fastest growing in the nation.

The Chamber, along with Presenting Sponsors Kevin Patton State Farm and Legacy Ford, wants to show its appreciation to the individual communities throughout the county and the leaders who have facilitated their growth and success. Fort Bend Strong, a celebration of everything Fort Bend County, will take place on Nov. 9 at Safari Texas Ranch, 11627 FM 1464, Richmond.

County Judge Bob Hebert will emcee the event. KPRC 950 AM’s drive-time host Matt Patrick is a featured guest. U.S. Senator John

Cornyn will deliver the keynote, which will be focused on the lessons Washington can learn from Texas and Fort Bend County’s successful pro-growth approach.

Every mayor Sen. John Cornyn in Fort Bend County has been invited to head an individual table, which can be purchased for $3000. Underwriter tables of 10 are $2,000. Individual tickets are $125.

OakBend Medical Center, SiEnvironmental, LLC, NRG Energy, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land, Johnson Development Corp., Silver Eagle Distributors, Allen Boone Humphries Robinson, LLP; Texas Direct Auto, Twinwood (US), Inc. University of Houston

Sugar Land / WCJC, and Trammell Crow Company are City Spotlight Sponsors.

Elge, Inc., Gurecky Manufacturing Service, Inc., Finnegan Auto Group, Petra Nova, LLC, Rosenberg Development Corp., Thomas J. Crayton, CPA / Garcia-Martin & Martin, PC, Centerpoint Energy, First Victoria National Bank, Elge, Inc., HDR, SIG McDonald & Wessendorff Insurance, Amegy Bank and LJA Engineering / WJ Interests are Underwriters.

The celebration, which will start with a cocktail reception at 6:30 p.m., will also feature a video that highlights the achievements of every city in Fort Bend County, a live auction and a raffle to drive a new car every month for 12 months from Legacy Ford.

To purchase a sponsor table or an individual ticket, contact Shannan Stavinoha at 281-342-5464 or sstavinoha@cfbca.org.

KCS’ Holiday Express to visit Fort Bend in November

K

ansas City Southern (KCS) (NYSE: KSU) has announced its schedule for the 2013 Holiday Express train. In its 13th annual run, Kansas City Southern’s Holiday Express will stop in 20 communities in six states on 24 dates. At each scheduled stop, visitors can board the train, visit with Santa and his elves and tour the inside of three cars of the festive six-car train. Each event is free and open to the public.

Over 12 years, the project has raised almost $1.2 million to purchase gift cards, which are donated to the Salvation Army at each scheduled stop. These gift cards are used to purchase warm clothing and other necessities for children in the local community.

The Holiday Express was built on the tradition of the Santa Train, which ran on a

12

segment of the network purchased by KCS in 1997. In 2000, a group of warm-hearted KCS employees noticed that the Santa Train was the only Christmas some kids had, and that some kids did not even have essential items like coats, hats and gloves.

These employees were so touched that they Arrives in Kendleton at 4:00 p.m., November 30 committed to elevating the project. In 2001, volunteers transformed smiling tank car “Rudy”; a flatcar carrying a retired freight train to the experience that Santa’s sleigh, reindeer and a miniature communities throughout KCS’ U.S. service village; a ginger bread boxcar; a newly territory enjoy today. remodeled elves’ workshop; the reindeer Led by KCS’ Southern Belle business stable; and a little red caboose. Each car is train, the Holiday Express train includes a dressed in lights.

November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

LS

H E A R AR

BU

IO

N

EA

FU

EST. 1910

IN

S

ES S DIVIS

Join The Central Fort Bend Chamber for a countywide celebration of our dynamic cities, innovative leaders and cutting-edge projects.

Every mayor in Fort Bend County will be in attendance.

Emcee Judge Bob Hebert Special Guest Radio Host Matt Patrick Keynote Speaker U.S. Senator John Cornyn

U.S. Senator John Cornyn N OW

HIST O

DOWN T RIC

G DIV

PRO

FESS

IO LS

YO U

G

I

SI

BER

NA

N

S

ON

RO

EN

DI

VISION

www.CFBCA.org

Saturday, November 9 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Safari Texas Ranch, 11627 FM 1464, Richmond To secure your table contact Shannan at sstavinoha@cfbca.org or 281.342.5464.

The City Centre at Quail Valley

Celebrate Your Holidays at City Centre

is the perfect place to celebrate the holidays! Offering a Texas friendly staff along with creative and diverse menus, the Centre features elegant party rooms to accommodate groups of all sizes. Our team of experts will create your event from start to finish. Family events, business meetings and community events are all expertly executed with grace and style. Book your holiday gathering today!

Call Us Today

281.403.5910

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

13

County Judge Bob Hebert leads delegation to Turkey

I

n September County Judge Bob Hebert led a delegation of Fort Bend leaders to the Republic of Turkey. The trip was a result of coordination by the Fort Bend Global Initiative with the purpose of establishing a friendship relationship with both the Cities of Adana and Kahramanmaras.

The agreements signed by Judge Hebert and the Mayors of the both Cities of Adana and Kahramanmaras, establish friendly cooperation in the fields of economy and trade, education and training, environmental protection and cultural exchange. Both cities are eager to develop economic relationships

Pictured from Left to Right: Allison Wen, Fort Bend Global Initiative; Jeff DiLeo, University of Houston Victoria; Giti Zarinkelk, Zarinkelk Engineering Services; Fheryl Prestage, Houston Community College; Fort Bend County Commissioner Pct 2 Grady Prestage; Keri Schmidt, Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce; Fort Bend County Judge Bob Hebert; Tarik Celik, Texas Turkish American Chamber of Commerce; Beth Wolf, Fort Bend County Judge’s Office; Chris Breaux, Fort Bend Global Initiative; Jeff Blodgett, University of Houston Victoria.

with Fort Bend County. Information exchange and negotiations will continue between Fort Bend business and education leaders, and the Turkish cities to establish further relationship building and understanding in the months ahead.

Judge Hebert’s delegation to Turkey included county officials, representatives of Houston Community College and the University of Houston, the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce and the Fort Bend Global Initiative.

Judge Hebert said, “I was delighted with the friendly warmth of our reception in Turkey. This democratic nation has been a steady friend to America for many years. With the help of our local Turkish American community we were able to initiate friendship and cooperation agreements with Adana and Kahramanmaras, the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce initiated cooperation agreements with their peers in Istanbul and Ankara and the University of Houston System and the Houston Community College System, held several meetings with Turkish Universities in Istanbul, Ankara and Adana.”

The Republic of Turkey is a secular democratic, constitutional republic, and its leaders work to ensure the economic health of their country.

The cities of Adana and Kahramanmaras are located in southern Turkey and have populations of 1.6 million and 558,664, respectively. Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey and located in the north west. The Capital City of Ankara is centrally located and second to Istanbul in population.

14

November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

Special Feature ATTORNEYS LEGAL EAGLES

Commitment to excellence

Divorce Finance Analysis, Inc. Knowledgeable | Equitable | Actionable

In Private Practice for 20 years

STEVE D. PONTIFF CDFA™, ADPA®, CRPC® MBA, Finance – 1986

FAMILY LAW • PROBATE CIVIL LITIGATION

Certified Divorce Financial Analyst®

COMMERCIAL TRANSACTIONS Farha Ahmed 2150 TOWN SQUARE PLACE Sugar Land, Texas 77479 Tel: 281.313.3839 Fax: 281.313.3842 www.farhaahmedlaw.com

4914 Rutherford Court Sugar Land, TEXAS 77479-3819

713-780-8888 FAX: 713-780-8887 E-Mail: Steve@DivorceFA.com

How do you retouch a masterpiece?

Gracefully.

S

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

www.thesugarcreek.com | 281.494.9131

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

15

Special Feature ATTORNEYS LEGAL EAGLES

Small Firm, Big Results

Teamwork and dedication are the keys for a complex and lengthy litigation, including a trial like this one.

You don’t need a big firm to deliver big results.

16

November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

Special Feature ATTORNEYS LEGAL EAGLES

T

Knowledge is Power

he most important elements of an outstanding legal practice are experience, knowledge, teamwork, and community.

Amy Mitchell and Elizabeth Duff, founders of Mitchell & Duff, work hard to ensure their firm provides their clients the most effective combination of these qualities.

Amy explains, “With our broad-based knowledge of the legal field, we can assist people in Fort Bend County, whether their needs are business or personal.” Elizabeth agrees, “From defending clients in the courtroom, to adopting a child, probating a loved one’s will, or creating a business, our firm can meet the civil legal needs of everyone in Fort Bend County.”

At the core of Mitchell & Duff are the Partners, Amy Mitchell and Elizabeth Duff, who in 2009, created one of the first female owned law firms in Fort Bend County.

Amy is an experienced civil litigator with over 60 successful jury trials under her belt.

In fact, Amy recently was named a ‘Top Rated Lawyer’ in ‘Texas Legal Leaders,’ by the Texas Lawyer, National Law Journal and American Lawyer. Elizabeth also excels in the courtroom, but does outstanding work with business and transactional issues, family law, guardianship and probate matters as well. Not only are Mitchell and Duff’s clients satisfied, judges and other lawyers have recognized the firm as one of the finest: awarding an A.V. rating by the Martindale-Hubbell peer review ratings.

Mitchell & Duff enjoys a history of successful legal representation and 2013 was no exception. For example, earlier this year,

(Standing) Carla Freeman & Jennifer Chiang (Sitting) Elizabeth Duff & Amy Mitchell

the firm won a jury trial verdict in excess of one million dollars. The verdict was a big victory for their client, a local businessman who was originally sued by his own business partners. According to Amy, “Teamwork and dedication are the keys for a complex and lengthy litigation, including a trial like this one. You don’t need a big firm to deliver big results.”

Community involvement is another crucial element of the Mitchell & Duff philosophy. Amy and Elizabeth have collectively lived in Fort Bend County for

over 60 years and are proud to call it home.

Elizabeth serves on the Fort Bend County Fair and the Lamar Consolidated Education Awards Foundation (L.E.A.F.) boards, and has been an active Richmond Rotary member for more than a decade. Amy is serving her second term on Sugar Land City Council and volunteers her time with a vast number of civic organizations, ranging from the Aga Kahn Foundation to Sugar Land Exchange Club to recently chairing a major fundraiser for Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels.

Associate Attorneys Jennifer Chiang and Carla Freeman are also instrumental to the firm’s success. Carla, a fifth generation Katy resident, graduated from Texas Wesleyan University where she served on her school’s Law Review: an honor only awarded to the highest performing students. Jennifer, a Sugar Land native, holds both an M.B.A. from the University of St. Thomas and a J.D. from University of Houston. When asked why they joined the firm, Carla noted “It is great to be a part of a firm with such a diverse practice and wealth of experience. Everyone works hard and we have the knowledge to get great results for our clients.” Jennifer points out that both she and Carla have roots in Fort Bend County. “It’s a rare thing to be able to practice in the same place where you lived most of your life. You know the people, you understand their perspective, and that gives you insight on how to meet their needs.”

With this powerhouse team, Mitchell & Duff is the premier Fort Bend law firm to meet all of your legal needs.

www.MitchellandDuff.com 210 MAIN STREET • RICHMOND, TEXAS 77469 • OFFICE 281-341-1718 • FAX 281-341-5517 Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

17

14th annual Bike the Bend for Literacy

By B. J. Pollock

B

ike the Bend for Literacy isn’t just a fundraiser, it’s a BP MS 150 Recommended Ride and a fun outing for not just cycling enthusiasts, but anyone who enjoys a bike ride.

The BP MS 150 is a two-day, 150-mile ride from Houston to Austin, benefiting Multiple Sclerosis research for a cure.

Each November, Bike the Bend provides not only a training opportunity for Fort Bend residents planning to enter the BP MS 150, but also a fun way to help the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County serve the community.

This year’s event is set to begin at 8 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 24, at Foster High School, 4400 FM 723 in Richmond, and will end at the campus at about 3 p.m.

Participants can ride a 20-, 35- or 62-mile route, enjoying the scenery in the west end of the county, getting some exercise and spending quality time with family, friends and neighbors.

Christina Guerra, events and communications coordinator for the Literacy Council, said cyclists return year after to year to participate in Bike the Bend, which is strategically scheduled for the weekend before Thanksgiving.

“This is our fourteenth annual event, and this year is going to be a little different form previous years,” Guerra said. “We’ve got a local food truck, Fraiche, whose owner supports local farmers. Everything is made from scratch, and they will be there to serve brunch so there’ll be an array of items to choose for the cyclists.”

Guerra said first-rate rest stops along the route will be stocked with delicious fruits and snacks provided by Whole Foods Market, and a variety of cold beverages will fuel the ride as well.

Additional snacks will await cyclists at the finish line, along with energizing music and enthusiastic supporters.

“It’s just going to be a lot of fun,”

18

Guerra said. “It’s the same route that we’ve had before, with a choice of how many miles the cyclists want to ride.”

Sponsorship opportunities for Bike the Bend are still available for individuals and organizations, ranging in price from $250 to $7,500, and include multiple-rider entry.

To date, sponsors include: McGrath & Co.; Tax Tech, Inc.; Alliance Laboratories; Westin Homes; Cross Creek Ranch; Levee Management Services; Costello, Inc.; Allen Boone Humphries Robinson, LLP; DCH Environmental; Si Energy; Si Environmental, LLC; McCauley Architectural Reviews; Riverstone; Urban Foresters; Bio Landscape & Maintenance; TBG; EnTouch; KGA; Summus Industries; RBC Capital Markets, LLC; Sugar Land Women’s Health Center; McLennan & Associates; and Houston Fence Company.

“We are really excited about the 2013 event,” said Kelli Metzenthin, executive director of the Literacy Council. “Our sponsor drive has gotten off to the best start in the history of the event, and we are looking forward to having more riders than ever.”

Guerra said cyclists, sponsors and volunteers who participate in Bike the Bend helping the Literacy Council unlock the potential for determined adults who want to pass a legacy of literacy to their children.

Proceeds from Bike the Bend support the Literacy Council and its life-changing November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

work, with a mission to improve and enhance family, community and professional lives through adult literacy education.

Guerra said organizers are hoping for an extremely successful event this year so the Literacy Council can roll out a new volunteer program that’s in the works. In addition, the organization is in the process of upgrading its GED capabilities.

“As of 2013, the GED will be allcomputerized; no more pen and paper,” Guerra said. “We’re just trying to prepare everyone and make sure that we’re well-equipped for that new test.”

The Literacy Council is also working to add outreach locations to be able to provide more classes for those who don’t have transportation to its main office in Sugar Land.

To help the Literacy Council with its goals, sign up now for Bike the Bend. Cost is $30 for those who register by Nov. 8, and $40 for registration Nov. 9-24. Visit www.ftbendliteracy.org to register online.

Registration packets may be picked up from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, Nov. 12–14, at the Literacy Council, 12530 Emily Court in Sugar Land, or at 7 a.m. at the starting line the day of the event.

For more information about Bike the Bend, or for volunteer opportunities, e-mail cguerra@ftbendliteracy. org or call 281-240-8181.

Imperial Linen relocates to Stafford in high tech facility

F

inal preparations are being completed to construct a new, expanded, state-of-the-art facility in Stafford. This new plant has been designed and engineered from scratch to be one of the top facilities in the country.

All of the latest technologies are being employed which, when fully constructed Phase One will allow for us to triple our current production capacities. Phase Two will allow them to again double the Phase One capacity.

All of the current washroom equipment is made by Milnor, the leading manufacturer of large-capacity laundry equipment.

Imperial currently uses Continuous Batch Washing Systems and will expand use of this environmentally responsible technology into the future as required.

A mix of conventional Milnor washing

equipment is also being used to give the plant total flexibility—and most importantly, fast emergency backup capabilities.

Imperial has also installed new finishing equipment. Chicago-brand feeding, ironing, folding, and stacking machines produce a top-quality finished linen product. This equipment is also designed for seamless transition into the new plant layout.

In addition, Imperial has continued to update its entire fleet of delivery trucks.

The fleet is specifically designed with lift gates that can accommodate any customer pick up or deliver location.

Imperial meticulously maintains its fleet, enhancing their dependability even more.

Imperial Linen Services is increasing its plant production capacity in accordance with the company’s long-term plan of expansion and its continued commitment to high-quality commercial linen services in the Greater Houston area.

BRAZORIA • FORT BEND • HARRIS • MATAGORDA • WHARTON

NOW HIRING

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

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

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

A thorough criminal background check will be performed.

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

SierCam

Healthcare Services, LLC Dana Williams, RN

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

19

An artist’s rendition of Memorial Hermann Sugar Land’s three-phase expansion.

An artist’s rendition of Memorial Hermann Sugar Land’s entry after major expansion.

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital plans major expansion

A

s Fort Bend County continues to lead the state in population growth, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital is making plans for that growth with a $93 million Campus expansion. The three-phase project begins with renovations and technology additions to the current facility, followed by construction of a 100,000-squarefoot professional office building and culminating with a new 120,000-square-foot patient tower.

“The hospital’s service area is projected to grow rapidly over the next five years,” said CEO Greg Haralson. “It’s important for our hospital to grow with the community in order to continue providing our patients with quality care.”

Phase one of the project, slated to begin later this year, will add eight beds to the Emergency Center, expanding capacity to 26 beds. It will also add a new surgical suite with full digital integration affording surgeons access to patients’ records and imaging studies within the operating room.

This phase also includes shell space for four future surgical suites.

Technology additions include a new MRI and an upgraded CT scanner. Completion of this phase is expected in 2014.

Phase two of the project, a professional office building, is the second of its kind on Memorial Hermann Sugar Land’s Campus.

20

Located to the west of Medical Plaza 1, the new structure will provide 100,000 square feet of combined physician offices, expanded sports medicine and rehabilitation services, along with outpatient imaging.

Groundbreaking is set for November 2013 with completion during the summer of 2014.

Phase three of the project, expected to begin in the fall of 2014, adds a six-story patient tower on the northeast corner of the hospital grounds. When completed in early 2016, it will increase the hospital’s total bed count to 141. ICU beds will increase to 14 and an intermediate care unit will add 16 beds. Another 30 beds will bring the total to 60 new beds during this phase of the expansion.

The tower’s structural composition will allow the addition of four more floors to accommodate future growth. Other space in the tower includes preadmission and education areas, as well as a self-contained endoscopy suite offering patients a one-stop location for endoscopy procedures.

“We are seeing more esophageal and colon cancers being diagnosed in the area,” said Haralson. “This endoscopy suite will serve as the foundation for a digestive disease center, bringing patients and subspecialty physicians together in one place for diagnosis and treatment.”

This is the hospital’s first major expansion since opening in 2006 and promises the addition of more medical subspecialties on Campus.

With the opening of the patient tower, the hospital anticipates adding 160 to 180 new employee partners.

“This expansion project is a testament to all members of the Memorial Hermann Sugar Land family who consistently work toward advancing the health of those we serve every day,” said Malisha Patel, chief operations officer. “We are excited to engage our physicians, employees and community as we expand our Campus with this vision in mind.”

November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

Leading the Nation in Quality Recognized, again and again, as one of the best health systems in the nation.

Now more than ever, Memorial Hermann stands out as one of the best health systems in the country. Our clinical excellence, quality, patient safety and operational performance have all been recognized nationally by multiple organizations. In fact, we’re the only health system to receive both National Quality Forum recognition and the John M. Eisenberg Award for Patient Safety & Quality. So if you or a loved one need medical care, rely on the nationally ranked health system with deep roots in Houston: Memorial Hermann.

Learn what our recognition means for you. Visit memorialhermann.org

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

21

Brazos Bend State Park is open to public, fowl, gators and multiple wildlife

By B. J. Pollock

I

t would take a lot more than a federal government shutdown to close the gates at Brazos Bend State Park, and the friendly folks who are stewards of the facility want the public to know they’re ready to welcome everyone. In fact, all of the more than 90 state parks across Texas are open.

The federal budget impasse that precipitated the partial federal government shutdown on Oct. 1 affects national parks such as Big Bend, as well as national parks, forests and lakes operated by the U.S. Corps of Engineers, but state parks remain open.

“We are not a federal agency,” said Sharon Hanzik, park interpreter at Brazos Bend State Park claimed by Needville, Rosenberg and Richmond. “I’ve been asked that constantly over the past couple of weeks.”

Steve Killian, superintendent at Brazos Bend, said it’s “one of the top parks in the United States; and as a result of that fact, it seems like a lot of people in the greater Houston area think that we are a

22

national park. We have received hundreds of calls asking if we’re open,” he added.

“Everything is running normally.”

In fact, Hanzik said this is the perfect time of the year to view the parks; the most famous residents, the American alligator; and the plenty of other wildlife as well.

She said recent rains are reviving the park’s many lakes, but regardless, the fall’s mild temperatures provide the best time of year to spot alligators along the banks.

“As long as it’s not below 60 (degrees) and it’s sunny, they like it,” Hanzik said.

“They don’t like extremes; as long as it’s comfortable for humans, it’s comfortable for alligators.” Killian agreed, and added it’s important to remember to keep a safe distance from the gators.

“After a cool-to-cold night, ... “it’s the perfect time for taking pictures of the alligators basking in the sunshine,

November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

and for viewing all the wildlife.”

Among the critters that populate the park in the autumn are various species of water fowl.

“The bird life changes quite a bit in fall,“ Hanzik said. “In the summer you have some of the songbirds, like the painted bunting, prothonotary warbler and the northern parula. This time of year many different species of wading birds can be found.” It’s also mating season for the barred owl and great horned owl, whose calls can be heard echoing through the woods.

Deer are plentiful as well, and Hanzik said cooler temperatures provide the perfect opportunity for park visitors to get out and explore the river-bottom trails, get off the beaten path and find a new trails to discover.

She said the 13 miles of equestrian trails are the first to close due to rain, and people should be aware that they need to call the

park to make sure the trails are open before bringing their horses into the park to ride.

As do many state parks, Brazos Bend offers controlled deer hunting, during which time the facility is closed to all other visitors.

“The hunts manage the deer population, to keep them healthy. It’s been very successful here,” Hanzik said. “Only deer hunters are allowed in the park while its closed to the general public, and the hunters must stay in the stands except to go and get what they kill. They are gun-only hunts; no bows and arrows are allowed.” This year the hunts are scheduled for Nov. 12-14 and Dec. 10-12.

There are plenty of other events at the park year ’round, including A Simple Christmas, which occurs from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7.

Hanzik said the festivities will take place outdoors, weather permitting, and include plenty of old-fashioned fun and

performances by the Brazos River Pickers.

Any time of year, Brazos Bend offers fishing, hiking, biking, camping or just good, old-fashioned picnicking. A variety of programs are available each weekend, and the gift shop and Nature Center are top-notch. The park’s volunteer organization is one of the largest among Texas’ state parks, and it’s filled with dedicated folks who love what they do.

The famous George Observatory, located across from the Nature Center, is open from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturdays and for other special stargazing events.

With six lakes and 5,000-acres to explore, Brazos Bend State Park, a nature-lover’s paradise, is one of the most-visited parks in Texas. It’s located at 21901 FM 762, and is only a short drive from anywhere in Southeast Texas. Visit www.brazosbend.org.

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

23

The “Good Faith Negotiator” Visionary Leads Projects The Right-of-Way

F

ort Bend County, still the fastest growing county in the country, is the home for a company that has been an industry leader since its founding in 1985. Brent Leftwich founded Contract Land Staff (CLS) 28 years ago and the company is still going strong providing Right-of-Way acquisition services to companies across the U.S. and Canada who are building those nations’ infrastructure. Mr. Leftwich serves as the company’s President & CEO, with his wife Mazie Leftwich, Psy.D. serving as one of its Senior VP’s.

Brent began his oil and gas/right-of-way career in the late 1970s and then went solo in 1980, establishing CLS in 1985 and transforming his one-man operation into one of the largest Right-of-Way and Land Management consulting companies in the United States and Canada —now with close to 450 employees.

At only 22 years old, Mr. Leftwich had already proved his leadership skills in attaining the position of Interim City Manager in Lockhart, Texas. After that, he ventured into real estate, which led him into the Oil and Gas, then the Right-of-Way industry.

Many would describe him as an extremely innovative visionary who has brought new ideas to the energy industry, including several technologically based innovations such as the creation of Contract Land Staff’s Virtual Right of Way Department (VROW®); the development of the state-of-the-art Rightof-Way Project Management System – CLS COMPASS® and the Right-of-Way project and records management database and GIS system CLSLiNK® and CLSLiNK GIS® Viewer. These technologies have been deployed on literally thousands of miles of Right of Way projects in the US; and just recently when CLS acquired a Canadian ROW company, these technologies and other innovations are available in Canada.

“Securing the Right-of-Way, whether it’s for a pipeline, electric transmission or other linear projects, is a labor intensive, timeconsuming, expensive and complex process.

You have to have a team with the expertise to make your project successful,” Brent Leftwich

24

Contract Land Staff, LLC - President & CEO, Brent Leftwich with his wife Mazie Leftwich, Psy.D. serving as one of its Senior VP’s.

explains. “We have been doing this for a very long time and have faced virtually every scenario from having planned and managed, to the full execution of hundreds of Right-ofWay acquisition projects.”

The life cycle of a Right-of-Way project, whether one is working on records research, survey permitting, understanding the complexity of the utility’s rights or the negotiating process is intensive, extensive and, well, downright grueling. Detail, skill, accuracy and integrity are key with the field negotiators who must keep the big picture in sight and respond quickly to the clients’ and landowners’ needs. Each project is thoroughly analyzed by the CLS Management Team so that the best Project Manager is selected along with a team who can then handle the complexity and unique characteristics of the project.

Feasibility Studies, well-researched and comprehensive, are critical to the success of each project. These arm the client with the knowledge and understanding of the unique challenges that will be faced by the project so that educated business decisions and projections can be made.

Although known for handling large to extremely large linear projects, “no job is too November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

small,” explains CEO Leftwich, “as CLS maintains a Client Response Team of trained and experienced multi-disciplined team members that are available to quickly provide support to Clients on all facets of the Rightof-Way process.”

As mentioned above, CLSLiNK is Contract Land Staff’s powerful, state-ofthe-art GIS-enabled solution for managing land assets. It allows CLS’ Clients to use one integrated system for examining, tracking and forecasting all of the Client’s right-of-way needs with the combination of the Right-ofWay data alongside GIS mapping capabilities.

It brings a new dimension to accurate researching, flexibility and simplification to the Client.

Mr. Leftwich and CLS are known in the industry as the “good faith negotiators,” always working in good faith for the client and landowner. In fact, Dr. Mazie Leftwich developed a comprehensive 8 hour class on Good Faith Negotiations that she and other subject matter experts continue to teach at a variety of venues across the country.

What one may not know about Brent Leftwich aside from his professional success is that he’s been actively involved over the years in both the community and numerous

organizations like serving as a Director of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce and currently serving as the Secretary of the Sugar Land Legacy Foundation.

The other side of this dynamic duo, Dr. Mazie Leftwich, with a Doctorate in Applied Psychology, is a Senior Vice President of Contract Land Staff, LLC (CLS), and is not only a nationally recognized speaker and workshop leader but is the Officer in Charge (OIC) of the CLS Professional Development Institute. Dr. Mazie has been the catalyst behind CLS’ extensive employee training, the University of Houston Downtown College of Business Right-of-Way Certificate Program and team-excellence programs. Additionally, Dr. Leftwich is an Ordained Methodist Minister, assigned in her ministry through the Sugar Land United Methodist Church as an Extension Minister dedicated to her ministry as a Corporate Missionary. Interestingly, she was in the ministry of counseling for 30 years, Ad 3 overlapping for many years into assisting in 1/2husband’s Horizontal her business and the corporate work motivational speaking and teaching.

7.25of wide x 4.75 high She too has been involved in a large number of community organizations including Founding President of Rosenberg-Richmond Helping Hands, Inc, a 3 term President of

the Fort Bend Health Council, committee chairs in both the Rose-Rich Chamber of Commerce and the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce; and Brent and Mazie both serve as Advisory Board Members for the Fort Bend CORPS. Both Brent and Mazie are IRWA (International Right of Way Association) Certified Instructors. Due to Dr. Leftwich’s passion for teaching and nurturing the development of her students, Mazie has developed many business and Right-ofWay curricula for both CLS’ employee presentations as well as specialized and tailored curriculum for several large energy companies. With Mazie’s 30 years of accumulated counseling, psychotherapy and coaching experience, she has brought those skills and expertise into the Right-of-Way industry, allowing her to manage, lead and resolve conflict while mentoring employees and providing training for numerous national and international energy companies; all this is in addition to being a presenter at numerous Energy Industry Conferences, a multitude of workshops and writing a bi-monthly article, Right of Way Therapy, for the International Right of Way (IRWA) Journal.

In 2012, CLS was proud to announce its

partnership with the University of Houston Downtown College of Business—the first and only University-based ROW training in the nation. A dream come true initiated by Dr. Leftwich, it offers a 96-hour curriculum that has been developed and is taught by CLS professionals and other experts in the Rightof-Way field. This first-ever, one-of-a-kind Certificate Program is now available online at UHD and has been approved by IRWA for SR/WA recertification credits.

Why Contract Land Staff (CLS) and not another entity? “We’re the leader in right-of-way technologies, ROW Project Management, processes and procedures. We have industry expertise that is unequalled.

We are, indeed, the full-service provider. We have decades of management experience and knowledge. Our Management Team is actively involved in every single project.

We’re innovative. We employ the most talented and best in the industry. We offer quality, consistency, efficiency and integrity.

And most importantly, CLS has our own Professional Development Institute because we believe in enhancing the skills of our employees and we help take our employees to the highest level possible,” Brent Leftwich explains.

Now Online!

The University of Houston- Downtown College of Business is excited to announce its Right of Way Certificate Program is now available online!

The first program of its kind in the nation was developed by Contract Land Staff, LLC in cooperation with UHD College of Business, for those persons desiring a career in Right of Way, enhancing skills and/or additional knowledge.

By offering classes both online and in-person, the Right of Way Certificate Program is now available to everyone in any location!

Register Today IRWA members with an SR/WA may receive Recertification CEUs. www.uhd.edu/row Email: row@uhd.edu Call: 713.221.5015 Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

25

More people face challenge of balancing ethnic identities American-raised, Iranian-schooled woman says we should all embrace & preserve cultural traditions

W

hat does it mean to be an American? The answer to that question is changing.

It’s exemplified in stories like that of Shaghayegh “Sharon” Farsijani, raised in New York City until she was a teenager and then transplanted to Iran for her high school years. Her experience trying to balance two vastly different cultures while recognizing the beauty in both was difficult but ultimately liberating, she says.

“I was a Brooklyn girl and my parents were quite ‘American’ although they were Iranian natives. My father wanted me to live in Tehran for a few years so I could experience his culture,” says Farsijani, whose new book, “Lacking Lips of Time,” (http://lackinglipsoftime.info), puts to words her feelings from that time.

“I witnessed much beauty living in and attending school in what used to be ancient Persia, and I embraced it, but I had to do that while adapting to a much more restrictive, religiously observant, culture. It’s a fine balancing act between conforming and staying true to who you are.”

Farsijani says poetry helped her synthesize her feelings and appreciate the beauty – the people, culture and land – around her. She later went on to earn her MBA, became a noteworthy journalist in Iran and traveled extensively, eventually forging a new career in the United States.

While preserving and embracing ethnic and cultural heritage is easier in some ways in America today, she says, it’s also more

26

complicated. Farsijani shares three “snapshots” of our contemporary American “melting pot”: • Hispanics, our largest minority, represent a multitude of cultures. Fiftyone percent of Hispanic adults in the United States say they identify not with a generalized “Latino” heritage but with their family’s country of origin. And 69 percent say Latinos have many different cultures. That poses challenges for families who want to preserve cultural traditions in a nation that tends to paint diverse groups of people with a broad, homogenous brush.

“One of the beautiful things about our cultural diversity is that it enriches all of us, whether or not we share that ethnicity,” says Farsijani. “Something as basic as a dish of chicken and yellow rice can be prepared one way in Colombia and another in Costa Rica.”

By exploring and appreciating what different cultures make available to us as Americans, she says, we can help ensure traditions remain authentic and available.

• Many more people identify themselves as multi-racial. With racial differences often come cultural differences. In 2000, for the first time, the U.S. government officially recognized that some Americans identify with more than one race. That year, the Census offered us the option to check multiple races to answer the question, “What is this person’s race?”

“It’s surprising that it took 210 years to make this change, but it’s a huge step forward in helping individuals balance their November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

multiple racial and ethnic identities,” Farsijani says.

“When the government basically tells you, ‘You can only be one race,’ it’s sending a message that your other identities have no value.”

• With more diversity of immigrants comes greater religious influence. The U.S. government grants full residency status to about a million new immigrants each year. For centuries, we received wave after wave of Christian European immigrants, and those from other Western-hemisphere nations. But our melting pot has been expanding with a spike in immigrants from sub-Saharan Africa, Asia and the Middle East-North Africa region.

“There is no way to quantify the numbers because our government does not ask an immigrant’s religion,” Farsijani says. “But we can assume more pronounced diversity of religious and cultural colors on America’s family quilt, including Islamic and Hindu faiths.”

Acceptance of these different faith perspectives helps make the U.S. a stronger union, Farsijani says.

“America is beginning to look more like New York City in terms of diversity,” Farsijani says. “My hope is that we are able to appreciate our common humanity.”

BNSF plans $240 million improvements

B

NSF Railway Company (BNSF) plans to invest an estimated $240 million on maintenance and rail capacity expansion projects in Texas this year.

BNSF’s 2013 capacity improvement projects in Texas include expansion of rail capacity at Tower 55 in Fort Worth, completing replacement of the Galveston Causeway Bridge, installation of a siding extension near Somerville, expansion of the Houston Intermodal Facility, construction of a loop track facility in San Antonio and significant signal upgrades for federally mandated positive train control (PTC).

BNSF will also continue its robust track maintenance program in Texas, which will include nearly 4,400 miles of track surfacing and undercutting work,

and the replacement of about 115 miles of rail and 690,000 ties.

“BNSF’s capital investments in Texas will help ensure our network is prepared for growing demand for freight rail,” said Matthew K. Rose, chairman and chief executive officer. “We are focused on investing to meet our customers’ expectations and on expanding capacity where growth is occurring. Given the importance of a low cost supply chain to the U.S. economy, our privately funded rail infrastructure is well positioned to help Texas compete in global markets.”

The planned capital investments in Texas are part of BNSF’s record 2013 capital commitment of $4.3 billion.

The largest component of the capital plan is spending $2.3 billion on BNSF’s core network and related assets. BNSF also plans to spend approximately $1

billion on locomotive, freight car and other equipment acquisitions, many of which will serve Texas. The program also includes about $200 million for positive train control and $800 million for terminal, line and intermodal expansion and efficiency projects.

Unlike other modes of transportation, U.S. freight railroads use their own private dollars, not tax dollars, to build and maintain their freight rail networks.

Since the year 2000, BNSF has invested more than $42 billion to improve and expand its freight rail network.

BNSF Railway is one of North America’s leading freight transportation companies operating on 32,500 route miles of track in 28 states and two Canadian provinces. It is one of three major railroads serving Fort Bend County.

TECHNOLOGY YOU EXPECT FROM A BIG BANK. SERVICE YOU DON’T. We’re here with online banking, mobile banking, 1,100+ ATMs and a banker that answers the phone when you call.

frostbank.com Sugar Land 620 Hwy 6 | Sugar Land, TX 77478 Missouri City 3600 FM 1092 | Missouri City, TX 77459 Stafford 3531 S. Main | Stafford, TX 77477

MEMBER FDIC

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

27

Dr. Dennis and Lynn Halford give support to Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center

H

aving provided care for Fort Bend families for more than 20 years, Dr. Dennis Halford has seen his share of smiling faces at his orthodontics practice. Now thanks to an investment he and his wife Lynn have made in the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center, the Halford’s are ensuring future generations of Fort Bend children will always have a reason to smile.

The longtime Sugar Land residents have pledged $25,000 to the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center: A Very Special Project of the Children’s Museum of Houston.

“We love to give back to the community where we work and live,” says Lynn, who with Dennis has called Sweetwater home for the past 23 years. “It will be exciting to see our granddaughter grow and learn at the museum.”

The Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center will offer six primary exhibits

managed as platforms for learning for children birth through 12 years. Exhibits will focus on childhood questions such as “How Does It Work?,” “Where Does It Come From?,” and “Can I Solve That?”

Tracy Golden, the museum’s capital campaign manager, says financial support

Sugar Land residents Dr. Dennis and Lynn Halford present Charlene Pate, Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center Co-Chair, with their contribution of $25,000 to the museum.

The Halford’s contribution will be recognized on a column in the museum’s entry.

from the community is vital to making a local, year-round children’s museum a reality.

“We’re in the final, stretch-drive,” says Golden, adding the museum’s capital campaign committee is working to raise $1.6 million by the end of 2013 to move forward with the project. The figure represents the museum’s first three years of programming and operating costs.

The museum is scheduled to open in the new Imperial development in Sugar Land in the summer of 2015.

Those interested in contributing to the Fort Bend Children’s Discovery Center should contact Tracy Golden at 281-4940297 or at tgolden@cmhouston.org.

For more information, go to www. fortbendchildrensdc.org. Also, “like” the museum on Facebook, www.facebook. com/FortBendDiscoveryCenter.

The Halford’s contribution will be recognized on a column in the museum’s entry.

Katy Area EDC backs key bonds on the Nov. 5 ballot Encourages Katy residents to vote “yes” for both the 2013 Katy ISD Bond Authorization Package and for the Fort Bend County Mobility Bond Proposition

K

aty seeks approval on the Nov. 5 ballot to improve Katy ISD’s academic and athletic programs and to complete mobility and road improvement projects in Fort Bend County.

“Katy Area EDC believes developing a first-rate educational infrastructure is essential to improving our overall quality of life and quality of place,” said Lance LaCour, President and CEO of the Katy Area EDC. “The proposed projects for the new stadium facility, agricultural sciences facility and a science, technology, engineering and mathematics project center all play a major role in maintaining Katy ISD’s pre-eminence as the top school district in the Greater Houston area.”

Total cost for the Katy ISD bond is $99 million with no projected tax rate increase. For additional bond information, visit: http://www.katyisd.org/dept/communications/bond/ Documents/Student%20Facilities%20Fact%20Sheet.pdf Additionally, the Fort Bend Mobility Bond, also on the November

28

5 ballot, is as important as the Katy ISD bond, LaCour said. “The purpose of the Fort Bend Mobility Bond is to address increasing vehicle traffic that has accompanied the rapid economic growth occurring in both Fort Bend County and Katy,” said Lacour. The Fort Bend bond, with its estimated total cost of $185 million, will help build mobility and road Lance LaCour projects for all parts of Fort Bend County.

Pres./CEO Katy EDC The Katy area stands to gain $58 million of the total bond with several important projects. A map of the projects can be viewed by visiting the Fort Bend County Mobility Map in the Katy Area EDC map-room at http://www.katyedc.org/map-room.

Early voting began Oct. 22, with the last opportunity to vote being Election Day, Nov. 5.

The EDC has assisted in the creation of more than 12,000 jobs and more than $1.3 billion in capital investment.

November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

Katy ISD Education Foundation announces donation by Copelin Financial Advisors

T

he Katy ISD Education Foundation is pleased to announce that Copelin Financial Advisors (CFA) has provided groundbreaking support for the organization by committing to a 3-year, $10,000-per-year donation. In doing so, Copelin is providing significant resources for Katy ISD teachers via the foundation’s Inspiring Imagination grant program.

Copelin’s relationship with Katy ISD began in 1995 when company founder, Wayne Copelin, began his involvement in Katy ISD’s Community Education Department. Copelin has since taught a four-week retirement planning course every year. “Copelin Financial’s interaction with district personnel has convinced us that Katy

ISD is one of the finest school districts in the nation,” says Copelin. “We were pleased to contribute to the newly established Katy ISD Education Foundation. We celebrate the innovation and excellence of Katy ISD and look forward to a continuing relationship with the foundation and with the school district.”

Last year, in its inaugural grant cycle, the foundation awarded more than $87,000 to one hundred seventeen Katy ISD teachers for inspiring, innovative classroom projects to be implemented this school year. The foundation’s second grant cycle will begin this November with grants awarded to teachers in May 2014. To learn more and contribute, contact us at 281-396-6031 or visit www.katyisdeducationfoundation.org.

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

Copelin Financial founders Wayne and Karen Copelin and staff celebrate Katy ISD Education Foundation grant recipients, the kindergarten team from Bonnie Holland Elementary. Front, l to r: Holland Elementary teachers Elysia Tharnish; Liz Becker; Chelsey Robbin; Melanie Ewing; Annie Baker; Tricia Lyday . Back row, l to r: Jeremiah Paterson, Copelin Financial; Carra Fleming, Principal, Holland Elementary; Janet Theis, Katy ISD Education Foundation; Wayne Copelin; Karen Copelin; Chris Crockett, President, Katy ISD Education Foundation Board of Directors; Debbie Reitsema, Copelin Financial; Carolyne Ljungdahl, Holland Elementary.

29

Seaway Crude prepares to bury 30-inch pipeline

By B. J. Pollock

M

any residents in southwest Fort Bend County are not happy that a 30-inch pipeline is being buried through their properties.

Among them are Jimmie and Mary Lou Kocian, homeowners on Saddle Drive in Big Creek Estates, just off Texas 36 South, a few miles north of Needville.

The couple bought their property nearly 45 years ago, at a time when another 30-inch pipe-line was being laid across their neighbor’s land.

This time, the work started about the beginning of October and is expected to continue throughout the month and possibly in to November; but the Kocians have been going ’round with Seaway Crude Pipeline since early 2013.

“We started negotiating this probably eight months ago,” said Jimmie Kocian.

“They try to low-ball you on the price and you end up having to hire an attorney, who gets onethird of whatever you settle for.”

James Wenzel, chief of staff for Fort Bend County Precinct 1 Commissioner Richard Morrison, said Seaway Crude is laying the pipe, which generally follows existing rights of way.

He said the pipeline crosses the Brazos River behind Gulf States Tube, runs along Kroesche Road, through the Cottonwood area to Big Creek Estates, then crosses Texas 36 South to Oberrender, Old NeedvilleFairchilds, Needville-Fairchilds, Jeske, Dannhaus and Padon roads, then across FM 1994 and back to Texas 36 South

30

before heading in to Brazoria County.

Along that route are numerous signs warning drivers of the work in progress, and to look for flagmen blocking the road to allow heavy equipment to cross.

Kocian said he’s all too familiar with the equipment, much of which is tearing up his yard. He said the pipeline company has a 50-foot easement forever and another 40-foot easement for workers for a year.

“Basically, it’s like I lost that much property; and there‘s nothing we can about it. We can’t stop them; they have imminent domain,” Kocian said. “Once they run this pipeline through here, you can’t do anything with the property. I can’t build anything on it, I can’t plant any trees on it, I can’t do anything with it. So its like you have this land that you can’t do anything with.”

He also said workers told him Seaway, which is a 50/50 joint venture between operator Enterprise Products Partners L.P. and Enbridge Inc., expects to recover the cost of laying the line from Oklahoma to Freeport within five to seven years.

Seaway spokesman Rick Rainey said as mc has 450,000 barrels of oil can be pumped through the pipeline every day.

“It’s the oil companies that are making money off of it and it’s the landowners who are losing,” Kocian said. “They want to negotiate with you and they want to

November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

just give you pennies on the dollar.”

Kocian said he’s not too worried about safety issues once the project is completed, because he has been told natural gas will not be pumped through the line.

“They say these are strictly crude lines, but from what I understand, once they’re down in the ground they can run whatever they want to through it,” he said, adding the pipeline is being laid within 60 feet of his home.

However, Rainey said the line “will be dedicated to crude oil service.”

“We share the concerns, or at least the understand the importance of safety; it is our top priority in anything that we build,” said Rainey. “One of the things to keep in mind is that it will be thoroughly tested before it is allowed to operate.”

He said before any crude is pumped through the line, each weld

will be x-rayed and hydrostatic testing will be done, pumping water into the lining and pressuring it up beyond regular operating standards to make sure everything hold properly.

“We’re going to make sure it’s sound,” Rainey said. “Once it’s in service we have a very comprehensive safety program.”

An electrostatic charge will be added to the pipeline to prevent external corrosion, and internal monitoring devices that run through the pipe will check for cracks and make sure it’s maintaining its shape.

The line will be monitored 24/7 from a control center in Houston, providing Seaway with real-time data. The data is analyzed and if there are any issues, an investigation is conducted any necessary repairs are made.

“We can operate that pipeline remotely; we can punch a button in Houston and we can operated the valves remotely,” Rainey explained.

He said planes will fly over the line an average of every two weeks, checking for areas of discoloration and to make sure no one is encroaching on the right of way.

One of the biggest issues we face, as pipeline operators, is damage from third parties, so we have an educational program in which we basically inform you of what to look for,” said Rainey.

Among its highlights is 811, the “Call Before You Dig” the hotline that alerts all of the underground utility operators that someone is going to be digging, so they can make sure it’s safe to do so.

Each year, Seaway way sends brochures to homeowners living near its pipelines, reminding them of safety procedures.

The Pipeline Hazardous Material Safety Administration, a federal agency, is responsible for making sure Seaway’s lines and inspection programs comply with federal law.

The Seaway Pipeline originates in north central Oklahoma, near Cushing, then heads south to Texas, east of Dallas in a generally straight line to Waller, Fort Bend, and Brazoria counties, ending near Freeport.

Rainey said his company views its relationships with the landowners whose property the pipeline as a long-term one.

“What we try to do is, set up a good working

relationship with the landowner.

The land is still owned by the landowner; all we’ve done is worked out an agreement with them to gain access to it in case we have any kind of issue,” he said.

Rainey conceded the process makes “a little bit of a mess,” but said when it’s finished, his company re-seeds and restores property to as close as possible as it was when the work begin.

He said farmers can still grow crops on the land and ranchers can still have cattle, but no permanent structures can be built on Seaway’s right of way.

In Kocian’s case, workers had to remove seven 40-yearold trees from the yard, but were able to save the oaks.

“The guys who are actually laying the pipeline are super-nice; they are absolutely great,” said Kocian. “They understand; they’re just here making a living, like everybody else. It’s just that I don’t understand why they have to go through subdivisions and neighborhoods.”

Still, the construction has “really devastated our property.”

“They swear up and down that they’re going to put everything back like it was, but it’s sill property that my wife and I paid for and can’t do anything with.”

Visit www.seawaypipeline.com for additional information about the project.

Your full-service flag and flagpole company 50 years business experience

We can install a flag at your business or home.

Remember to get your flag for

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

COLUMBUS DAY • November 14th VETERANS DAY • November 11th MARTIN L. KING • January 20th

www.LoneStarFlags.net

281.495.2900 fax: 281-495-8727

31

a sweet 0.25”-bleed area

REUNION James Michener wrote, “Never forget, son, when you represent Texas, always go first class.” For Sugar Land native Jennifer Kane, an M.B.A. from the prestigious Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and early career success in the Windy City surely represented Texas in a first-class way. But now she’s back in Texas–in a community and a company that are “home.”

“I’ve had some success, I want to preserve what I’ve got, I want to understand the global macro environment, I want to be more familiar with risk, I want to build a legacy for my grandchildren, I need to know . . . Where do I turn now?”

According to Jennifer Kane, senior vice president in the Houston office of Atlantic Trust Private Wealth Management, that is the most common question from prospective clients, regardless of the multiple reasons that may be driving it.

It’s similar to her own situation: Earlier this year, Kane decided to move back to Sugar Land, her hometown, after nine years working and in graduate school in Chicago. Seeking the opportunity that would further her career and family goals even more, she took some of her own advice, the same simple advice she gives to clients: “Find someone you can trust.”

32

November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

That “someone” was Atlantic Trust, the firm that offered her a position as junior portfolio manager when she made the leap from Texas to Chicago, part of her plan to get experience in another region—either Chicago or New York— for her career and graduate school.

Graduating with an M.B.A. in 2006 (Kane also holds a B.A. in economics from the University of Texas), she then moved to a firm, run by a past president of what is now Atlantic Trust’s Chicago office, to get more in-depth experience investing in equity and fixed income markets. Kane served as lead portfolio manager for assets that represented one-third of the firm’s total assets under management. “It was great experience,” says Kane, who also served on the firm’s investment committee.

“But Texas was home, and I wanted to go back. My husband asked

to be transferred, and I was referred to Atlantic Trust’s Houston office by the Chicago office. We knew Sugar Land was the environment in which we wanted to raise our family and take part in a vibrant community. I spoke with many of the top wealth management firms in Houston, but ultimately, and fortunately, I was offered the opportunity to rejoin Atlantic Trust—a ‘return to the mother ship,’ I call it. And the only thing I am more passionate about than Texas is this firm.”

Atlantic Trust: A 90-Year Partnership of Trust For nine decades, our business model has earned the trust of our clients—affluent individuals, families, private foundations and endowments. It starts with being very clear on our mission, principles and what sets us apart—and holding ourselves to that every day and for every client. n

We are professional fiduciaries, and our sole focus is wealth management.

As we take responsibility for the stewardship of our clients’ assets, a key question we ask is: “What is best for our clients?”

n

We customize client portfolios and wealth plans. This means balancing your goals for capital preservation and growth with your estate planning and cash flow needs. By limiting our number of clients, we are able to provide the highest level of personalized, “boutique” service.

n

We build and implement diversified investment strategies. Through our forward-looking investment philosophy, we have established a strong track record in asset allocation and both proprietary and external investment management across asset classes.

n

Our collaborative team approach to addressing your financial, trust, estate and philanthropic goals has been key to our high client retention.

n

We have an objective and stable business model. We generally work under one transparent relationship fee that covers all services. This structure aligns our interests with clients’ interests, as our compensation is tied to the retention, preservation and growth of our clients’ assets.

A Holistic View Kane’s trust in Atlantic Trust as a home for her clients is built around one foundational principle: holistic wealth management. “There are plenty of firms that talk the talk, but don’t walk it,” says Kane. “During both of my periods with Atlantic Trust, I’ve been so proud of the fact that this firm is totally committed to this holistic, not transactional, view of a client’s financial picture. Our approach integrates clients’ asset allocation and investment portfolios with their tax, trust, estate and philanthropic needs, in a highly personal and custom way. One of the things on which I place a really high priority is understanding risk— making sure my clients understand it and that I fully understand each client’s risk tolerance.”

For more on Atlantic Trust: www.atlantictrust.com

For many of her Sugar Land-based clients, risk takes on a unique meaning.

Because the area is so energy-focused, an industry that has treated many Sugar Land residents so well, Kane often has to guide her clients away from energy investments—“It’s a simple matter of managing risk through better portfolio diversification,”* she says. “On the other hand, many of my clients know the energy industry so well that they have a good understanding of their own risk tolerance for energy-based investments.”

What’s currently on the minds of Kane’s clients is a typical concern of many people in a boom year for the market: When is the next big pullback coming?

It’s an unanswerable question, Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

33

Jennifer Kane: Need to Know The book on my bedside table is...

“On the Brink: Inside the Race to Stop the Collapse of the Global Financial System, by Henry Paulson, former Treasury secretary. It might sound more interesting to say that I read ‘escapist’ fiction, but the truth is I only read books on finance or economics. I should probably join a book group so I’ll be forced to read other genres.”

You might be surprised to know that I...

“Actually chose this career in high school. I loved my economics class and from that moment forward, never changed my focus. Finance and economics were my majors in college and graduate school.”

I couldn’t live without... ”My husband’s support. Sounds corny, but it’s true. With two small children and two careers, he has to juggle as much as I do. He’s a commodities trader, so you can imagine the exciting conversations we have at home.”

My mentor is... ”My dad. He comes from an IrishCatholic family of 14 and has always had an incredibly strong work ethic. His best advice to me has always been: ‘Take pride in what you do—every day.’”

A favorite quote is... “’Optimism is a choice.’ I don’t know if that’s really a quote, but it’s my mantra. I’m an extreme optimist.”

of course, but investors can prepare for it by using tactics that may reduce volatility and too much exposure to a single asset class. Kane suggests that clients consider alternative investments, such as hedge funds, in their asset allocation, if appropriate—yes, that “exotic” sounding investment that conjures up lifestyles of the rich and famous and colossal returns delivered by high-profile, larger-than-life managers.

“That is a lingering, but often erroneous, stereotype of what is really a group of strategies whose value proposition is as a less-correlated source of riskadjusted returns. Most importantly, even a small allocation to hedge funds can provide important diversification during turbulent markets,” says Kane.

“Transparency of both investment strategy and fees is very important to us.

Atlantic Trust uses managers we know very well and who have an attractive, historical long-term track record.”

The Houston office is headed by Scott Caven, Jr., a long-time Texan who spent three years as chairman of the board of directors of the University of Texas Investment Management Company (UTIMCO), the second-largest university system endowment fund, with more than $30 billion under management as of August 2013. Caven, an early proponent of adding hedge funds to an investment portfolio, shares Kane’s view of hedge funds.

“To help mitigate volatility during down markets, some investors may want to consider hedge funds,” says Caven. “At Atlantic Trust, we’re great believers in a well-diversified portfolio, which can help reduce risk and may add absolute return.”

Defining Family Wealth Kane’s older clients have reached the point where they need a multigenerational view of their wealth and, most importantly, their families. “It’s roots of a different type,” says Kane.

“These families not only want to preserve and pass on their wealth, they want to define what ‘family wealth’

really is. It’s the values that define their family, and the celebrations, stories and inspirations that enrich them. And our legacy planning is certainly about preparing children for the money, not the other way around.”

Atlantic Trust’s legacy planning gives families an opportunity to define, reflect on and express what wealth really means to the family, collectively and individually. For most families, it means identifying the core values that make the family who it is. For some, it is an opportunity to groom the family’s future leaders. If done well, for all families, it is what makes estate planning’s legal and tax provisions understandable and meaningful. Family wealth should be looked at holistically, but once the strategy for asset protection is developed and tactics for moving wealth down to the generations in a tax-efficient manner is begun, the holistic examination of wealth includes addressing the “from the heart” issues.

“Each family has its own issues,” says Kane, “including defining what wealth means to them. A broad definition of the family’s ‘assets’ is essential to legacy planning: What does this family hold most dear? What are their core values and core competencies? What are their promises about investing in each other?

It’s tremendously satisfying to work with the multiple generations of a family on legacy planning, because in many ways, it’s not really about the money.”

A return to her Sugar Land roots means Kane can add multi-generation planning to her own family’s portfolio. “We’re a small family—I’m an only child and have two children—but my parents are here and it is wonderful to have everyone in Texas. When we think about ‘wealth management,’ we think of it in the same way I advise my clients: It is important to construct a plan that is comprehensive and considers all generations of a family.” *Portfolio diversification does not guarantee a profit or eliminate the risk of loss.

www.atlantictrust.com

This document is intended for informational purposes only, and the material presented should not be construed as an offer or recommendation to buy or sell any security.

ROCK SOLID Independent free papers bring buyers and sellers together with more audited circulation than your daily.

During these times, it is more important to make the right advertising choice. We’re it.

We can help your business.

M

E

M

B

E

R:

Independent Free Papers of America

4655 Techniplex Dr., Suite 300, Stafford TX 77477 • Tel: 281-690-4200 Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

35

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

Trendmaker Homes presents new townhomes in Imperial Sugar Land with one and two-story floorplans Trendmaker Homes, one of the awardwinning home builders selected for Imperial Sugar Land, says its new townhomes in Sugar Land’s newest master-planned community will provide dramatic, open living concepts, ideal for young professionals and active empty nesters seeking a ‘couples lifestlye’ without the maintenance associated with a traditional single-family home.

The new one and two-story townhomes, ranging from 1,900 - 2,900 square feet with elevations made in the Acadiana style reminiscent of the French Quarter, will present completely open living spaces with dining, gourmet kitchen and family rooms all in one area, ideal for entertaining, according to Trendmaker Homes President Will Holder.

The two-story townhome floorplans will offer a master suite and living spaces on the

first floor with extra bedrooms on the second floor.

“Our new townhomes in Imperial are for those who are ready for a casual, carefree lifestyle,” says Holder. “They typically are empty nesters and young professionals who want the value of home ownership without the hassle and worry of home maintenance.”

The neighborhood’s homeowner’s association will maintain lawns and exteriors of Imperial’s townhomes, Holder adds.

“You’ll be out of the home maintenance business,” he says.

Plus, the new townhomes will be built with detached, three-car garages for added storage or an additional car, Holder explains.

The 27 townhomes to be built by Trendmaker Homes also will face Imperial Boulevard, one of the community’s signature,

Union Pacific restricts hunting on railroad property Union Pacific Railroad urges hunters to resist the temptation to hunt on railroad property this season. Wildlife will migrate and feed along the edges of freshly harvested fields, making these areas prime hunting spots. With fields adjacent to Union Pacific tracks, hunters find it very tempting.

“Too many people have been injured or killed trespassing on railroad property over the years. As part of our UP CARES public safety initiative, we want to remind hunters that walking on or near railroad tracks is extremely dangerous because you never know when a train will come along,” said Robert Morrison, Union Pacific Chief of Police.

“It can take a mile or more to stop a train, and, by the time a locomotive engineer sees you on the track, it is too late to stop,” said Dale Bray, Union Pacific

36

director – public safety.

“Locomotives and rail cars overhang the tracks by at least three feet on either side of the rail. If you are too close to the tracks, you can be hit by the locomotive or a rail car,” added Bray.

In an effort to educate the public about grade crossing and pedestrian safety, UP established the Union Pacific Crossing Accident Reduction Education and Safety (UP CARES) program, which brings together communities in a collaborative and caring effort to promote railroad grade crossing and pedestrian safety. Union Pacific is committed to fostering public safety through various outreach channels, such as community events, paid advertising and media outreach, education and enforcement activities and coordination with Operation Lifesaver.

November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

tree-lined parkways.

Details on Imperial Sugar Land’s new townhomes along with its new patio and garden homes can be found at www. imperialsugarland.com or “like” the community on Facebook at www.facebook. com/imperialsugarland.

About Imperial Imperial Sugar Land consists of 716 acres representing the largest remaining development opportunity in Sugar Land.

Imperial Sugar Company, the oldest continuously operating business in the State of Texas, processed sugar on the site for more than 160 years.

Water for Texas: Vote ‘Yes’ on Proposition 6 The following is an op-ed piece on Proposition 6 by Kenneth Dierschke, president of the Texas Farm Bureau.

Water grows Texas.

It always has. Water grows families. Water grows jobs. Water grows food.

Yet Texas is thirsty. Many years of drought have left us with withered lawns, parched pastures and shrinking water supplies. Surface water levels have dropped to 60 percent of capacity and Texas grows thirstier by the day.

A possibility that we turn on the tap and nothing comes out is finally dawning on us.

We are realizing the precious resource we’ve always taken for granted is actually limited indeed.

Nothing is more important to Texas’ future than a reliable supply of clean water.

And Texans can take a giant step toward ensuring those supplies by voting “Yes” on Proposition 6 on Nov. 5.

NEWSWORTHY

Women: Breast implants and cancer risk MD Anderson experts shares the truth about breast implants Have breast implants? Or thinking of getting implants? Many people worry implants will make it harder for their doctor to detect and treat breast cancer. No need for concern, said Therese Bevers, M.D., medical director of MD Anderson’s Cancer Prevention Center. Just take the extra precautions listed below.

Get familiar with the new breasts In about 90 percent of breast cancer cases, women find a breast lump themselves.

Checking the breasts regularly is one of the best ways to detect breast cancer early. If a woman has implants, she needs to pay extra attention to how her new breasts look and feel. “It’ll take a while to get used to your new breasts because they’ll have a different texture,”Bevers said. “They’ll also have new folds or dimples.”

But after a woman gets comfortable with her new breasts, she shouldn’t have any problems noticing changes. “Women with implants can sometimes even notice changes more easily than women without implants,” Bevers said.

“Implants tend to push the natural breast tissue closer to the surface of the breast, making a lump easier to feel.”

Take extra screening steps Most women, including those with breast implants, should start annual mammograms at age 40.

During a mammogram, images are collected by flattening the breast between two mammogram plates. Implants can get in the way of this flattening and make it difficult to see the breast clearly. So, additional pictures may need to be taken during the exam.

“After we finish the standard views, we push the implants out of the way so we can get views of the breast tissue when flattened,” Bevers said. “It’s a more complex process, but we can still see good images of the breast.”

“Get a mammogram before and within one year after your cosmetic surgery,” said Steven Kronowitz, M.D., an MD Anderson plastic surgeon with expertise in breast reconstruction.“The mammogram

Fluor and JGC joint venture awarded EPC contract by Chevron Phillips Chemical To lead Gulf Coast petrochemicals project in Texas Fluor Corporation (NYSE: FLR) and JGC Corporation have announced their 50/50 joint venture of an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract by Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LP (Chevron Phillips Chemical) for its U.S. Gulf Coast (USGC) Petrochemicals Project has been awarded. Fluor booked its share of the undisclosed contract value in the third quarter of 2013.

The project consists of the ethylene unit (cracker) and associated offsite components to be built at Chevron Phillips Chemical’s existing Cedar Bayou complex in Baytown.

Fluor’s scope includes engineering and procurement for the outside battery limit

scope as well as direct hire construction for the entire cracker project.

“This project represents the first EPC opportunity to be executed by our newly formed association with JGC,” said Peter Oosterveer, president of Fluor’s Energy & Chemicals Group. “The U.S. Gulf Coast continues to play a significant role in the chemicals market and our depth of resources and breadth of experience will create value for our client and support their success throughout the project.”

Project work is under way and will be performed from Fluor’s Houston (Sugar Land) office with assistance from its Philippines offices.

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

after you get your implants serves as a baseline for future tests.”

Kronowitz also recommends placing breast implants under the chest muscle instead of above.

“We can see more of the breast tissue during a mammogram when the implant is below the muscle, making it easier to detect changes,” Kronowitz said.

Share info on your implants Worried that flattening the breasts during the exam will damage the implants? That rarely happens, Kronowitz said.

“The benefits of getting a mammogram far outweigh the risks of implant damage,” he said.

At every appointment, women should remind her doctor, radiologist or gynecologist that she has implants, and make sure her health care provider has all the information on her breast implants, like the manufacturer, design, style and volume, before she gets her mammogram.

“Having this information helps us determine if any unusual changes are from the implant or a woman’s natural breast tissue,” Kronowitz said.

Cancer may lead to implant removal If a woman has implants and gets breast cancer, she may need to have her implants removed. This is true even if you don’t need a mastectomy (the removal of one or both breasts).

Keeping implants can be painful. Plus, the radiation treatment can change the shape of the implant, and cause infection and even loss of the implant.

Whether you have implants or not, your best defense against breast cancer is to be aware of your breasts and go in for regular breast screening exams.

For additional tips on health and exercise, visit www.mdanderson.org/focused.

To learn more about The University of Texas MD Anderson Regional Care Center in Sugar Land, visit www.mdanderson.org/ sugarland.

37

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

Colliers International completes Sugar Land office disposition Colliers International announces its recent disposition of the Hudson Products Building, a 26,230 square-foot office building on 2.36 acres, at 1307 Soldiers Field Drive in Sugar Land. The seller, SLGD of Texas, LLC, was represented by Kolbe Curtice and Corbin Janssen of Colliers International’s Fort Bend office. The purchaser, Texas Dow Employees Credit Union, was represented by Marshall Clinkscales, Greg Cizik and Edward Edson of Colliers International’s Houston office.

Texas Dow Employees Credit Union, which will occupy the entire building, is a not-for-profit financial cooperative with over 170,000 members and more than $2.0 billion in assets. The company is the fourth largest credit union in Texas and the largest in the Houston area, with 32 service locations and 25 branches.

Colliers International is a global leader in commercial real estate services, with over 13,500 professionals operating out of more than 482 offices in 62 countries. A subsidiary of FirstService Corporation, Colliers International delivers a full range of services to real estate users, owners and investors worldwide, including global corporate solutions, brokerage, property and asset management, hotel investment sales and consulting, valuation, consulting and appraisal services, mortgage banking and

insightful research. The latest annual survey by the Lipsey Company ranked Colliers International as the second-most recognized commercial real estate firm in the world.

Locally, Colliers International | Houston is a full service commercial real estate firm with offices providing integrated services to clients locally and globally since 1957. The staff of more than 87 professionals specializes

Fort Bend County Commissioners Court supports November mobility bond election Fort Bend County Commissioners Court has completed the preliminary workshops necessary to formally consider calling a mobility bond election to be held in November 5th of this year. The proposed bond amount of $184.9 million would not increase the county’s $0.49776 tax rate, and would fund the mobility projects shown listed on www.fortbendcountytx.gov. Click the link

entitled 2013 Mobility Bond Election. View the map and check the projects listed across our growing county - north, south, east, west and in between. Descriptions of the projects are provided.

Questions regarding the proposed projects may be directed to the Commissioner in whose precinct a project is located, or to the County Engineering office.

Fort Bend County Mobility Bond Project 2013

Rockport Contracting, LLC leases 3,079 SF of office space in Sugar Land Rockport Contracting, LLC has leased 3,079 SF of office space on One Sugar Creek Center Boulevard in Sugar Land.

Tawnya Dornak and Danna Sossen with ICO Commercial represented the Tenant.

38

in the sale and leasing of office, industrial, retail, multi-family, investments, and land and provides real estate, property, and project management services.

For further information, please contact Kolbe Curtice, Managing Director - Fort Bend | Colliers International, at 281-4944769 or kolbe.curtice@colliers.com. Visit their website at www.colliers.com.

November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

NEWSWORTHY SPWP Investment, LLC leases a 6,000 SF office/ warehouse space on Murphy Road in Stafford SPWP Investment, LLC has leased a 6,000 SF office/warehouse space at 13335 Murphy Road in Stafford to SOG Armory, a rifles, parts and custom lowers supplier. Lang Motes and Jane Holloway Nodskov with ICO Commercial represented the Landlord.

Dorf Ketal Chemicals, LLC leases 2,678 SF in Stafford Dorf Ketal Chemicals, LLC has leased 2,678 SF of office/warehouse/laboratory space on 13110 Mula Court in Stafford. Dorf Ketal Chemicals, LLC is one of the largest manufacturers of formulation based specialty chemicals to be used in refining, petrochemical & allied industry. Jane Holloway Nodskov and Lang Motes with ICO Commercial represented the Tenant.

Redfish Land Properties leases 2,880 SF in Stafford Redfish Lane Properties has leased a 2,880 SF industrial space to a children’s clothing manufacturer and distributor, in Stafford. Larry Indermuehle, CCIM and Jon Song with ICO Commercial represent the Landlord. Redfish Lane Properties has leased a 2,880 SF industrial space to a children’s clothing manufacturer and distributor, in Stafford. Larry Indermuehle, CCIM and Jon Song with ICO Commercial represent the Landlord.

Texana Center leases 7,214 SF office space in Sugar Land Texana Center has leased a 7,214 SF office space at 130 Industrial for an Autism Center in Sugar Land. Mike Gornek with ICO Commercial represented the Tenant.

Technip awarded substantial subsea Gulf contract for the Delta House project Technip was awarded by LLOG Exploration Offshore L.L.C. a substantial(1) contract for the development of the Delta House field, located in the Mississippi Canyon area of the US Gulf of Mexico.

This contract covers the project management, engineering, fabrication, installation and pre-commissioning of more than 200 kilometers of infield and export flowlines(2) and risers(3). The water depth of this development is comprised between approximately 100 and 2,000 meters (between approximately 360 and 6,500 feet).

Technip’s operating center in Katy will perform the overall project management.

The infield flowlines and risers will be welded at the Group’s spoolbase in Mobile, Alabama. The offshore installation is expected to be performed in the second half of 2014 by vessels from Technip’s fleet: the Deep Blue will lay the deepwater infield lines while the G1200 construction vessel will install the export flowlines.

Frédéric Delormel, Technip’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Subsea, has declared: “This new project reinforces our leadership in the US Gulf of Mexico deepwater market. It also confirms our positioning in deep to shallow export lines, following the acquisition of Global Industries.”

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™ achieves new heights as overall educational commitment exceeds $350 million Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo officials announced in October that the organization has reached another milestone by surpassing the $350 million mark in overall educational commitment to Texas students since 1932.

“For more than 80 years, the Show has provided financial support for the youth of Texas in a remarkable way,” said Joel Cowley, president of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.

“Reaching the more-than-$350-million mark in educational commitment is a great testament to the passion of this organization and its dedicated volunteer corps, which stands 28,000-plus strong — it truly is ‘The Show With a Heart.’”

After a record-breaking year in 2013, with more than 2.5 million people visiting the three-week event, the Show is able to commit more than $23 million in support for the 2014 Show season. This commitment is comprised of: • scholarships to high school seniors, and college juniors and seniors who are current Show scholars; • graduate assistantships for students at 11 different Texas universities; • educational program grants for a variety of organizations; and • support for Houston Livestock Show™ junior show exhibitors and calf scramble participants.

The new educational commitment brings the Show’s overall scholarship count for 2014 to 735, for a total of $12,418,000.

This includes 615 four-year $18,000 scholarships for students all across the Houston area and throughout the state.

39

Rice University’s Baker Institute selects Tendenci®

R

ice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy, one of the premier nonpartisan public policy think tanks in the country, has kicked its visibility efforts into high gear by launching a dynamic new website, http://bakerinstitute.org/, powered

by Tendenci (www.tendenci.com), the open source Content Management System (CMS) for cause-related organizations.

The goal of the upgrade was to redefine how the Web can be used to connect the work of think tank researchers to the array of outcomes of their work -- and tie it all back to real time events percolating around the globe.

The website, featuring more than 1,000 pieces of research, 800 videos and hundreds of events, was designed and developed by

Schipul -- the Web Marketing Company (www.schipul.com).

“We are looking to make a bold statement, build awareness and ensure our online presence conveys to the world how strong the work is that we do,” said Ryan Kirksey, director of operations and finance with Rice University’s Baker Institute. “As an open source solution, this platform gives us freedom to develop and maintain the site however we choose.”

The Baker Institute leverages many of Tendenci CMS’ unique capabilities. The organization can manage and organize website content without having to go through a third party, and Tendenci has built-in automatic search engine optimization features. The site also includes donation and fundraising management that makes it easy for users to contribute

Help shape the future of the region

Our Great Region 2040 draft plan available for public comment

M

ore than 6 million people currently live in the Houston-Galveston region, and the Houston-Galveston Area Council forecasts predict that we will grow by 3.7 million additional residents by 2040. To embrace this growth and maintain and improve quality-of-life standards, the Houston-Galveston Area Council and project partners are opening public comment on Our Great Region 2040.

The Our Great Region 2040 draft plan offers six big Ideas in the areas of economic development, environment, health, housing, transportation and resiliency. The plan also contains 15 priority goals related to people, places and prosperity and more than 75 voluntary strategies that communities, local governments and individuals can use

40

to make their communities great places to live and work. The Our Great Region 2040 draft plan spotlights six case studies from local cities and counties that highlight real-life examples of how the ideas, goals and strategies could be implemented in the Houston-Galveston region.

The draft plan is available for public comment through Nov. 15. There are ways to provide feedback: 1. Visit www.ourregion.org for a virtual tour of the draft plan, and provide feedback as you read.

2. Visit www.ourregion.org, download a PDF copy of the draft plan and send your comments via e-mail to ourregion@h-gac. com.

3. Attend an open house - Leonard E. Merrell Center – Thursday, November 7 from 4 p.m. 8 p.m., 6301 S. Stadium Drive, Katy.

November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

financially, online event management that enables the Baker Institute to quickly and easily add events to the online calendar, allow registration, take payment and access registrant information.

The new website also includes rich media management to make it easy to upload, view and search photos and videos, and responsive design to ensure users have a consistent and positive experience regardless of the device they use to access the site.

“Tendenci offered us a platform to feature our multimedia in a way that is both visually pleasing and functional,” said Kirksey. “We do more than 100 events per year, each of which is streamed online and then archived for on-demand playback, along with photos. The new website makes all this accessible to those who can’t come here to Houston to see what we do.”

Tendenci was released as an open source CMS to give cause-related organizations, including NPOs and associations, greater freedom and control over their online presence. Tendenci has more than 1 million users and powers hundreds of websites for nonprofit organizations and associations around the world, including Metropolitan New York Library Council (www.metro. org), Houston Technology Center (www. houstontech.org) and DePelchin Children’s Center (www.depelchin.org).

Schipul -- The Web Marketing Company develops and builds websites on the Open Source Tendenci CMS (www.tendenci.org) system for NPOs, a revenue generating online tool with over a half million people logging in during the past year and millions of users overall.

Schipul is headquartered in Houston with an office in Silicon Valley, and provides web marketing services to an international client base that encompasses a variety of service industries in local, national and international markets.

Schipul’s clients include DePelchin Children’s Center, Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles and Tony Chachere’s(R) Creole Foods, among many others. Additional information about Schipul is available at www.schipul. com and www.tendenci.com.

Fulshear Area Business Division hosted its second annual Champagne & Ponies Polo Blender

From left: Tim Kelly, Pecan Acres Polo Club; Leigh Ann Dawson, Central Fort Bend Chamber, and Central Fort Bend Chamber President/CEO Shanta Kuhl.

From left: Fulshear Mayor Tommy Kuykendall and Central Fort Bend Chamber President/ CEO Shanta Kuhl.

From left: Kim Stacy, Texas Insurance Agency; Randy Stacy, Texas Insurance Agency; Suzanne Loehr, Stieber Insurance Group, LLC; Lyn Sullivan, the Ad Sheet; Evelyn Martin, Martin Mortgage, LLC; Michael Martin, Martin Mortgage, LLC; Rebecca M. Hafner, Attorney at Law, PC, Independence Title Company; Juan Garcia, Victor’s Mexican Grille, and Fulshear Mayor Tommy Kuykendall.

Pecan Acres Polo Club Clubhouse.

DO IT! Video your website. Are you taking advantage of this powerful tool to set yourself apart from the competition?

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

Google and other search engines love video.

A video on your website will place you higher in search rankings.

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

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

STAR Digital

STUDIOS

GIVE US A CALL — You’ll “See” What we mean!

4655 Techniplex Dr. Suite 500 • Stafford, TX 77477• www.starvideoproductions.com Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

41

IN NAMES THE NEWS

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

Fort Bend Regional Council to host fifth annual Helen Cordes awards dinner featuring Dr. Sanjay Gupta with CNN Fort Bend Regional Council on Substance Abuse, Inc. will present the fifth annual Helen Cordes Award Dinner featuring CNN Medical Correspondent, Neurosurgeon and Best-selling author Dr. Sanjay Gupta on February 20, 2014 at the Sugar Land Marriott Town Square in Sugar Land. Dr. Gupta will be discussing “Medicine and the Media” with a focus on prescription drug use.

For millions of Americans, Dr. Gupta is the source for lucid analysis and astute insight on major developments in medicine, personal health and healthcare. A practicing neurosurgeon, he is the multiple Emmyaward winning chief medical correspondent for CNN, playing an integral role in the network’s lead reporting on breaking medical news, providing regular health reports for premiere programming and documentaries, and anchoring the weekend medical affairs show Sanjay Gupta, MD. During his tenure at CNN, Dr. Gupta

has covered some of the world’s most historic and significant events: the attacks of 9/11, Hurricane Katrina, the 2004 tsunami in Southeast Asia, the 2010 devastating earthquake in Dr. Sanjay Gupta Haiti and earthquake- and tsunami-ravaged Japan in 2011.

He also served as an embedded reporter with the U.S. Navy’s medical unit in Iraq, performing life-saving brain surgery five times himself. Among his many accolades and honors, Dr. Gupta has served as a White House Fellow and special advisor to First Lady Hillary Clinton and garnered the prestigious Peabody and DupontColumbia awards for CNN. In 2009, he was selected by President Barack Obama as the top candidate for U.S. Surgeon General but declined the nomination to continue pursuing his passion for practicing medicine and journalism.

County judge keynote speaker at Vietnamese event

County Judge Bob Hebert spoke at the Vietnamese Cultural Affair in October. The event was hosted by the Fort Bend Global Initiative and the Vietnamese American Chamber of Commerce of Houston and included traditional Vietnamese performances in music and dance. Judge Hebert addressed the group with his compliments for the tremendous tenacity of the Vietnamese citizens and the success and contribution of the Vietnamese culture to our economic health. “I frequently say that our diversity is our strength and our Vietnamese American residents reaffirm that statement every day. I greatly appreciate the contribution of these citizens to help build our great nation,” said Judge Hebert. Pictured from left to right: State Representative Rick Miller, ThuVan Ho, Tiffani Nguyen, County Judge Robert Hebert, Baby Annabelle MacGregory, Tammy Bui and Missouri City Council Member Danny Nguyen.

42

November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

The award dinner is held in honor of an individual who has given their time, experience and expertise to Fort Bend Regional Council. The Honoree for 2014 is State Representative John Zerwas, M.D. who has been an outspoken advocate on substance abuse issues.

The Helen Cordes Award was founded five years ago. Cordes served FBRC with such a sincere passion for our mission that she has inspired all who have shared the privilege of working with her.

For more information or to become a sponsor contact Mandi Bronsell at mbronsell@fortbendcouncil.org or (281) 207-2409.

Texas Tech Chancellor Kent Hance retires Fort Bend County alumni join with Governor Rick Perry on the retirement announcement of Texas Tech University System Chancellor Kent Hance: Chancellor Kent Hance’s decision to step down as head of the Texas Tech University System marks the end of an incredible era not just for the System, but for higher education in Texas.

Thanks to his leadership, higher education is more affordable and accessible to thousands of Texans. As chancellor, Hance helped the Texas Tech University System raise an astonishing $1 billion, much of it during the nation’s economic downturn. He also led the effort to hold the line on tuition increases and creation of a $10,000 degree at Angelo State University.

His legacy will be felt by countless Texans for generations to come, whether they are graduates who proudly hang a diploma on their wall from one of the System’s outstanding institutions, or anyone who benefits from the ideas, innovations and initiatives brought to life through the Texas Tech System.

IN NAMES THE NEWS

Fort Bend County welcomes new Public Health Authority Recently, Dr Mary desVignes-Kendrick was sworn in as Fort Bend County’s Public Health Authority by County Judge Bob Hebert.

Dr. DesVignes-Kendrick began with the county in 2011. As the County’s Public Health Authority she is responsible for public health matters and is also the Director of Health and Human Services.

HHS is the umbrella for other county departments including Emergency Medical Services, Animal Services, Veterans Services, Clinical Services and Social Services.

Judge Hebert said, “Fort Bend County is fortunate to have Dr. Kendrick as the County’s HHS Director and Medical Authority. Her ingenuity and expertise is an asset to our rapidly growing county.”

George P. Bush, candidate for Texas Land Commissioner, attended a meet and greet for the Central Fort Bend Chamber’s Young Professionals Division on Oct. 18 at the Club at Aliana. The Chamber’s Young Professionals Division was created in 2009 to help business professionals from 21 to 39 create stronger business relationships in Fort Bend County.

For more information about the Young Professionals Division, contact the Central Fort Bend Chamber at 281-342-5464.

Shown are County Judge Bob Hebert and Dr. desVignes-Kendrick.

Gaetti named manager of the year, Bates, Godwin and Scott receive First-team honors; Clemens, Majewski named to Second-Team The Atlantic League of Professional Baseball has announced that Skeeters Manager Gary Gaetti has been named the 2013 Atlantic League Manager of the Year. Along with Gaetti’s managerial honors, Skeeters infielder Aaron Bates, outfielder Adam Godwin and catcher Travis Scott were First-Team Atlantic League selections. Additionally, catcher Koby Clemens and right-handed pitcher Gary Majewski were named to the Second-Team Atlantic League roster for the 2013 season.

In his second season at the helm of Sugar Land in 2013, former Major Leaguer Gaetti led the Skeeters to an alltime Atlantic League-best 95-45 record (.679). The team clinched its first-ever Atlantic League playoff berth in late June, claiming the First Half Freedom Division

George P. Bush speaks to Chamber’s Young Professionals Division

title, prior to going 48-22 in the second half. The Skeeters went on to face the Somerset Patriots in the Freedom Division Championship this September and despite dropping the series, the club secured its place in Atlantic League history by surpassing Lancaster’s single-season win record of 88 victories in 2012.

The Skeeters 2014 game schedule and a list of new weekly promotions are now available on the team’s website. Game times and a full promotional schedule will be released at a later date. Season tickets for the 2014 season at Constellation Field are on sale now. For more information about Skeeters games and how to be a part of the Sugar Land baseball experience, please contact the Skeeters main office at (281 240.HITS or visit the team’s website at www.sugarlandskeeters.com.

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

Shown from left: George P. Bush, Chamber President/CEO Shanta Kuhl and Chamber Board Member Kevin Kohl.

Perry appoints three to University of Houston System Board of Regents Gov. Rick Perry appointed three members to the University of Houston System Board of Regents which also governs over UH-Sugar Land, UH- Victoria, and UH - Cinco Ranch for terms to expire Aug. 31, 2019.

Durga D. Agrawal of Houston is president and CEO of Piping Technology and Products, and director of the Agrawal Association of America. He is a member of the National and Texas societies of Professional Engineers.

PERRY, continued on page 44

43

IN NAMESTHE NEWS

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

Officer Captain Mike Patton retires Veteran law officer Captain Mike Patton has retired from his post as director of the Gus George Law Enforcement Academy.

Patton worked for six sheriffs during his time at the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office, starting with Ervin Hurta, followed

by Gus George, Perry Hillegeist, George Molina, Milton Wright and Troy E. Nehls.

Following early work in the Walker County Sheriff’s Office and the Texas Department of Public Safety, Patton moved to the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office and worked in various posts for 35 years.

The bulk of his years in Fort Bend were spent at the Fort Bend Law Enforcement Academy which became the Gus George Law Enforcement Academy later.

Patton served as Assistant Director for six years and 17 years as the Director. The academy has had three directors, including Don Martin, the founding director, and Marshall Wichard.

During his 23 years at the academy, Patton said the biggest change he has seen is the amount of hours of training required for

Texas Law Enforcement Officers.

“In the early days of the academy, a peace officer had to have about 240 hours of training. That number is now more than 600 hours, and here at the academy, we require more than 700 hours of training.”

Patton said in a two-year training cycle, the academy hosts more than 10,000 law enforcement officers taking required classes.

“When I first started at the Academy, we had two classrooms with a capacity of 20 in one and 35 in the other. Times have changed.”

The Academy moved to the new building in 2009. The facility hosts officers from throughout the Houston-Galveston Area.

The Houston-Galveston Area Council provides funding to help pay for courses taken by officers from the region.

“In addition to the amount of training officers must complete, the other biggest change over the years is the complexity of the job and the demands we place on our police officers,” Patton said. “It doesn’t compare to years ago. It’s much more of a challenge now.”

Farrah Gandhi joins the team at WJ Interests, LLC WJ Interests, LLC, welcomes Farrah Gandhi as its business development manager.

Farrah will focus on serving existing clients, developing new client relationships, and marketing and community relations.

“We are proud to add Farrah to our team,” said Jared Jameson, chief investment officer and vice president for WJ Interests. “Her skills and marketing experience will help WJ maintain its level of client service excellence as we continue to grow with Fort Bend County.”

Prior to joining WJ Interests, Farrah was the marketing director at the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce from March 2011 through October 2013. Previously, Farrah worked in the luxury retail market for 10 years, with such industry leaders as Neiman

44

Marcus and St. John Knits.

Farrah earned her bachelor’s degree in retail management from the University of Texas at Austin and is a graduate of the Leadership Forum. She and Farrah Gandhi her husband, Himesh, call Sugar Land home.

WJ Interests provides financial planning and investment management services for an array of clients, including individuals, families, businesses and foundations. Based in Sugar Land, the firm was founded in 1996.

For more information, contact WJ Interests at 281-634-9400 or wj@wjinterests. com.

November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

For the cadets who go through the Academy, the challenge is steep, too.

“We teach the tools, the laws and the certification they must have before we turn them loose on the streets,” he said.

For the fourth year in a row, the academy’s graduating class had a 100 percent passage rate on the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Stands and Education examination required to become a Texas peace officer.

“If we didn’t have the academy here, we’d have to pay to send our deputies somewhere else to take required classes,” he said.

“Through our business model, we provide a high-quality, low-cost training to the law enforcement community.”

Patton and his wife, Debbie, live in the Richmond area. Patton was born in San Antonio. His education background includes Spring Woods Senior High School in Houston, Sam Houston State University and the University of Virginia at Charlottesville. He also is a FBI National Academy graduate.

Perry appoints three to University of Houston System Board of Regents PERRY, continued from page 43

Paula Mendoza of Houston is president and CEO of Possible Missions. She is a commissioner of the Texas Ethics Commission and a board member of the East End Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

Peter Taaffe of Austin is an attorney with the Buzbee Law Firm. He is a member of the State Bar of Texas, board member of the University of Houston Center for U.S. and Mexican Law Advisory Board, and a former adjunct professor at the University of Houston Law Center.

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Upcoming Chamber Events

www.FortBendChamber.com

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

45

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

Welcome New Members ACB Solutions

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Tim White, Vice President/CTO 5503 FM 359 Richmond, TX 77406 888-238-4225 Computer, Sales & Service

46

Corrotherm International USA LLC Piers Cooper, General Manager 10225 Mula Road, Suite 100 Stafford, TX 77477 832-617-8200 Industrial Sales

DaVita Dialysis J. P. Crawford, Facility Administrator 21026 W. Bellfort Richmond, TX 77406 832-595-0187 Health Care, Dialysis

Fellowship of Love Church Donnette Brown, Business Administrator 15995 Westheimer Rd. Houston, TX 77081 281-497-1971 Churches

Gulf Coast Hospice of Houston Alethea Nelson, Executive Director 134 Eldridge Rd., Suite F Sugar Land, TX 77478 713-772-2700 Hospice

LearningRX of Sugar Land Syndee Howgate, Executive Director 14015 SW Freeway, Suite 10 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-774-8382 Healthcare

Memory Maker Vacations Sarah Thomas, Travel Advisor 1414 Meadow Branch Dr. Sugar Land, TX 77479 832-914-0668 Travel Agencies

Nelson & Co. Damien Nelson, Owner 2277 Plaza Drive, Suite 250 Sugar Land, TX 77479 832-532-7220 Web Development

November 2013 H Fort Bend Business Journal

Sans Talent Productions Tina Ho, Producer/Writer P.O. Box 1985 Alief, TX 77411 832-382-8223 Production Company, Film/Video

Sugar Land Ice and Sports Center/Sugar Land Imperials Jamie Feltus, General Manager 16225 Lexington Blvd Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-265-7465 Entertainment

Universal Title Partners, LLC Sandy St. Gemme, Manager / Escrow Officer One Sugar Creek Center Blvd., Suite 620 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-242-4736 Title Insurance

White Smiles Orthodontics, P.C. J. Christopher White, DDS, Orthodontist/Owner 7270 Highway 6, Suite 300 Missouri City, TX 77459 281-969-7106 Orthodontists

www.FortBendChamber.com

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter www.FortBendChamber.com

Fort Bend Business Journal H November 2013

47

Success is just around the bend 1 YEAR

As Women We...

Stacey Lewis, 832-886-5840

MECO Wayne Switzer, 281-276-7600

Salvation Army Tina Turner, 281-207-2530

Sleep Inn & Suites D-Andre Holmes, 281-494-2900

2 YEARS

Milestone Member 20 YEARS

Sugar Grove Church of Christ Richard A. Fancher, 281-530-9651 Sugar Land Plumbing Jeanne Edmunds, 281-242-6990

8 YEARS

Berg-Oliver Associates, Inc. Susan Alford, 281-589-0898

21 YEARS

Evolution Kids Emporium Jimmy Brown, 888-765-5515

Traffic Engineers, Inc. Rachel Carleton, 713-270-8145

Houston Community College Southwest-Stafford Fena Garza, 713-718-7748

Santikos Theatres Chris Prichard, 281-239-4200

Fertility Specialists of Houston Corinne Walters, 713-512-7048

22 YEARS

Southwest Urgent Care Baker Niazi, 281-545-2323

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

7 YEARS

Papa Murphy’s Take ‘N’ Bake Pizza Trent Thomas, 281-494-0747

Atria Senior Living Audi Mills, 281-494-4200

48

Telios Corporation Brian Peterson, 281-265-1636

3 YEARS

Service King Collision Repair Centers Clayton Geisendorff, 713-773-5000

4 YEARS

Terra Associates, Inc. Vickie Henkel, 713-993-0333

Milestone Member 5 YEARS

Umbilicals International Jeff Ceballos, 281-275-6620 Allstate - Ragle Lance Ragle, 281-265-1200

11 YEARS

Little Wonders Learning Center Nikou Fatemizadeh, 281-208-9545

13 YEARS

Federal Maintenance Tim Garcia, 281-498-0588

Milestone Member 15 YEARS Laserzone Gary Wilhide, 281-277-2900

Community Bank of Texas Philip Davis, 281-325-5000 Crossbridge Church Chuck Land, 281-313-8300

24 YEARS

Fitts, Roberts & Co., PC R. Kay Parker, CPA, CFP, 713-260-5230

29 YEARS

City of Meadows Place Charles Jessup, 281-983-2950

Milestone Member 30 YEARS

IDS Engineering Group, Inc. Tobin Maples, 713-462-3178

17 YEARS

Sienna / Johnson Development, LP Alvin San Miguel, 281-778-7777

19 YEARS 6 YEARS

Colony One Auto Center Rod Tate, 281-980-4440

John R. St. John Construction, Inc. John R. St. John, 281-494-8300

Russell & Smith Ford-Honda-Mazda Mark Rehkopf, 713-663-4111

For membership information, contact:

Mental Health America of Fort Bend County Jeanne Wallace, 281-207-2480

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

Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers Cody Frederick, 281-980-9860

November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

www.FortBendChamber.com

SAVE THE DATE NOVEMBER Programs and Special Events

2013 Fort Bend Chamber Challenge November 4, 2013 • 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Quail Valley Country Club 2880 La Quinta Dr. Missouri City, TX 77459 Business and Professional Division

DECEMBER Programs and Special Events

2013 Holiday Luncheon December 13, 2013 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Sweetwater Country Club 4400 Palm Royale Blvd.

Sugar Land, TX 77479

University Update with Renu Khator

November 6, 2013 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd.

Sugar Land, TX 77478

December 16, 2013 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Sugar Land Marriott 16090 City Walk Sugar Land, TX 77479

Infrastructure Division

JANUARY 2014

November 12, 2013 • 7:30 am – 9:00 am Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd.

Sugar Land, TX 77478

Business and Professional Division

Governmental Relations Division

State Representatives Miller, Reynolds, Stephenson and Zerwas November 12, 2013 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd.

Sugar Land, TX 77478 Chamber Young Professionals

Learning to Network with Glenn Smith

November 21, 2013 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd.

Sugar Land, TX 77478

DECEMBER

January 8, 2014 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd.

Sugar Land, TX 77478 Governmental Relations Division

State of the City of Sugar Land January 24, 2014 • 7:30 am – 9:30 am Sugar Land Marriott 16090 City Walk Sugar Land, TX 77479

SHOP Local & EAT Well Local produce & edibles Live music . Chef tastings & demonstrations . Picnic grounds

Hosted by Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce www.imperialsugarland.com for a listing of the vendors & activities.

SPONSORS

For more information on our upcoming events, please visit our website at www.fortbendchamber.com

Chamber Young Professionals

Vino, Paint and Network!

January 30, 2014 • 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm Pinot’s Palette 16170 City Walk Sugar Land, TX 77479 Programs and Special Events

December 12, 2013 • 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm Santikos Palladium AVX Entertainment 7301 W Grand Pkwy S Richmond, TX 77407

January 31, 2014 • Begins at 6:30 pm Safari Texas Ranch 11627 FM 1464 Richmond, TX 77407

www.FortBendChamber.com

HWY 90 at Imperial Development In front of the Char House & Silos

Glenn Smith’s Annual Business Plan

Chamber Young Professionals

Strikes, Spares and Beers

9am-1pm, RAIN or SHINE

Governmental Relations and Education Division

Understanding Office 365 with Charles Swihart

TxDot in 2013 with Michael Alford

OPEN Saturdays

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

UPCOMING EVENTS

2014 Chairman’s Gala

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

SUCCESS IS JUST AROUND THE BEND 49

Ribbon Cuttings

Gulf Coast Hospice of Houston 134 Eldridge Sugar Land, Texas 77478 713-772-2700 www.gchospice.com

G Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

ulf Coast Hospice of Houston has provided comprehensive hospice services to individuals and families since 2006.

We are locally owned and operated by healthcare professionals dedicated to the hospice philosophy and committed to Making Every Day Count in the lives of the families we serve. Operating locally allows Gulf Coast Hospice to quickly respond to the needs of patients without having to consult a

50

corporate office in another city or state. We are also committed to educating communities about the benefit of hospice in long term care planning. Office hours are M-F, 8am-5pm. Contact us at 713-7722700, 24 hours/7 days a week. There is no cost for an initial consultation.

PARTYlicious 5748 Highway 6 Missouri City, TX 77459 281-969-5230 www.partylics.com

P

ARTYlicious Party Supplies where you create quality parties for less. PARTYlicious is devoted to providing our customers the best service they have yet to receive. Our philosophy is to provide our customer with excellent service, various options, and ideas to throw creative, inviting, and innovative parties. We carry all sorts of Party and event dĂŠcor ranging items for new born, juveniles, teens, young adults, adults, and

even living it up seniors. We are proud owners with a lot of experience in retail, but wanted to get into a retail business that brings laughter, excitement, and enjoyment on people’s faces. At PARTYlicious that is exactly what we and you will experience. Check out our website at www.partylcs.com for more information and contact info.

November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

www.FortBendChamber.com

DaVita Dialysis

21026 W. Bellfort Richmond, TX 77406 832-595-0187

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Inside Scoop

15810 SW Freeway, Suite 300 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-277-0415

Community Impact Newspaper 8400 N. Sam Houston Pkwy.

West, Suite 200 Katy, TX 77064 281-469-6181 www.impactnews.com

Spirit of Texas Bank

12840 SW Freeway Stafford, TX 77477 281-921-8400 www.spiritoftexasbank.com

www.FortBendChamber.com

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

51

Ribbon Cuttings

Bricks 4 Kidz

6136 Highway 6 Missouri City, TX 77459 281-778-5439 www.bricks4kidz.com

Ben E. Keith

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

727 Cravens Rd. 281-498-7072 www.benekeith.com

52

STARSkaters

PO BOX 16434 Sugar Land, TX 77496 281-415-0423 www.STARSkaters.org

House of Blooms

16180 City Walk Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-242-1555 www.sugarlandhouseofblooms.com

November 2013 H Fort Bend Business Journal

www.FortBendChamber.com

S DIRECT AU XA

r Novembe

o

ne Molh

Catheri

ars and

d Doll housan

One T

R TA

SCH

OL

TO

TE

CONGRATULATIONS! ARSHIP S

13

00/100

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

1,000

$

SCHOLARSHIP!

Complete details and forms at

www.fortbendfocus.com

Catherine Molho Congratulations to Catherine Molho, a current student at The University of Texas at San Antonio, for being selected as Texas Direct Auto’s “Scholarship Star” for November! Tom Daigle, General Sales Manager, presents the $1,000 scholarship. At The University of Texas at San Antonio, Catherine is pursuing a degree in International Business while working part time at a medical imaging facility. Catherine is an active member of Sigma Kappa Sorority, where she volunteers her time to help organize philanthropic events and campus projects. After graduating, Catherine plans to work with international companies to help expand the United States business market. Catherine was selected as part of Texas Direct Auto’s commitment to educational excellence through the “Scholarship Stars” program. Application details are listed at www.fortbendfocus.com.

Farm visits help connect the dots

By Julie Vrazel

M

ilk comes from a cow, a loaf of bread starts in the field and farmers work every day.

Agritourism–the intersection between agriculture and tourism–is a growing trend fueled by you, the consumer, having an interest in learning more about the food you eat. There are agritourism locations across the state–farms and ranches that offer tours, corn mazes, wineries and more–just waiting for visitors.

The allure of the farm remains strong and the fall season offers many opportunities to dive into outdoor activities. Hay rides, picking the perfect pumpkin, fishing and strolling through the fields are just some of the fall attractions of life on a farm.

And if that’s not enough, friendly farm

animals are ready to greet those who visit.

And you’re never too old to visit a farm, because all ages can participate in various activities that help connect the dots on common questions, such as how food is grown and animals are raised.

Ask questions about the square bales used for the hay ride, the pumpkins in the patch and the corn grown for consumption, as well as the maze you try to find a way through. These are prime opportunities to strike up a conversation with the farmers and ranchers responsible for growing the food that feeds Fort Bend, Texas and America.

Through Texas A&M and the Fort Bend Farm Service Agency Fort Bend farmers were recently visited by farmers from Turkey and Afghanistan to study irrigation and water well systems for their farmlands.

Family farms, like mine, depend on the income generated from our operations–

whether it’s corn, cattle, cotton or another commodity. The welfare of livestock is a top priority for farmers and ranchers, and agritourism allows others to see us in action.

So go visit a farm, ask questions and get your hands dirty participating in farm activities. And the farmers and ranchers will be glad to share their stories with you.

Texas Instruments rated one of the “World’s Most Ethical Companies”

A

s their building nears closer to completion near the University of Houston Sugar Land, Texas Instruments has again been recognized as one of the world’s most ethical companies for 2013 by the Ethisphere Institute. This is the seventh consecutive year the company has won a spot on the list.

“This honor is a true reflection of Texas Instruments commitment to doing what’s right and exemplifies the culture and standards we’ve been building upon for more than 80 years,” said David Solomon, TI Director of Ethics. “We congratulate the other award recipients and are proud to stand among these outstanding ethical companies.”

The World’s Most Ethical (WME) Companies designation recognizes companies that truly go beyond making statements about doing business “ethically” and translate those words into action.

54

WME honorees not only promote ethical business standards and practices internally, they exceed legal compliance minimums and shape future industry standards by introducing best practices today.

This year, a record 145 companies (many with offices in Fort Bend County) made the list, which includes more than three dozen industries, from aerospace to wind power, with 43 of the WME winners headquartered outside the U.S. Since the list’s inception, 23 companies have made the list all seven years including: Aflac, American Express, Fluor, November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

General Electric, Milliken & Company, Patagonia, Rabobank and Starbucks, Texas Instruments, among others.

The group reviewed hundreds of companies from 36 industries and evaluated a record number of applications using in-depth research and a multistep analysis to develop this year’s list.

The 2013 ranking is the largest list since the award’s inception in 2007.

The methodology for the WME ranking includes reviewing codes of ethics, litigation and regulatory infraction histories; evaluating the investment in innovation and sustainable business practices; assessing activities designed to improve corporate citizenship; and studying nominations from senior executives, industry peers, suppliers and customers.

Read more about the methodology and view the complete list of the 2013 World’s Most Ethical Companies athttp://ethisphere.com/wme.

R E B

M E C

S T R A ST

DE

FORT BEND REAL ESTATE

All Star TV Show and Newspaper Section

Multi-media Real Estate Marketing

Package

WEEKLY PACKAGE INCLUDES

• Four minute agent interview in the

All Star Real Estate on demand video show linked to our website.

• Full-Color photo of agent and contact information in the All Star Section of the Fort Bend Star every week.

• Two house listings in black & white in the real estate section of the Fort Bend Star every week.

Call JERRY POSCOVSKY

281-690-4205 realestateads@fortbendstar.com

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

55

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 2013. More Assumed Names may be viewed online at http://ccweb.co.fort-bend.TX.us/RealEstate/SearchEntry.aspx. There were 434 Assumed Names for month of September.

Towne Rhueben (+) Towne Home Investors 719 Crestwood 77489

Changmal LLC JJ Cambridge LLC 601 Penny Lane 77546

Emordi Donna D L Cleaning Service 11214 Mulholland Dr 77477

MPII Inc Greenlawn Memorial Park 3900 Bf Terry Blvd 77471

Williams Jessica C (+) Wilson Cross Designs 2623 Woodwick Dr 77479

Wood Charles (+) Extreme Cycles 10130 Cash Road 77477

Chatman Roderick Party Land Express 1519 Monterra Point 77545

Addison Kenneth M U S Auto Direct LLC 714 E Hwy 90A 77406

Antes Ronald Edward Ii (+) R2 Pharmaceautical and Biopharmaceutical Consulting 8818 High Ridge Lane 77469

Gallaway Cary (+) Wathen Audiophile 7102 Autumn Bluff Ln 77407

Shah Niraj (+) AAP 2515 Willow Springs Ln 77479

Paez Pablo M Paez 1138 Desert Springs Ln 77471

Lanoix Victoria (+) Victoria’s Glass Jewels 2451 Marquette Trail 77494

Otten and Vakil Dental Services PC CR Smiles 10605 Spring Green Blvd Ste 500 77494

Taylor Latasha Divalistic Shoe Boutique 13411 Barton Meadow Ln 77583

Willis Lynn Willis Catering 16327 Goanna Court 77498 Willis Lynn J & R Sweet Meat Bbq (+) 16327 Goanna Court 77498 Hanley Daniele M (+) The Cake Man (+) 7511 Winterview Dr 77489 Vela Hector H & L Tractor Services (+) 15602 2Nd St 77498 Asumu Yolanda Purple Valley 5207 Ashmore Park Dr 77494 Scott Avery Words That Say 4614 Morning Glory 77459 Garrett Julion (+) Just General Improvements 2718 Oak Hill Dr 77459 Umair FNU Umair FNU 11419 Ashford Haven 77478 Barnard Alan (+) The Big Green Bus Katy (+) 8639 Chickasaw Plum Way 77494 Hayes Adrienne Locksmith Chick 20900 Fm 1093 Rd Ste 1305 77407

56

Taymoori Amir H Colony Flooring & Design Inc 13030 S Kirkwood 77477 Capstone Logistics LLC Lms Intellibound, LLC Dba Capstone Logistics, LLC 1 Ben E Keith Way 77459 Jules Benson John Windies Community Rx 5201 Hwy 6 South #300 77489 Woodlands Mechanical Group LLC Texas Balancing and Commissioning Agency 32815 Fm 2978 Rd Suite D 77354

Alvarado Marcel Chiq (+) Trucker Capital 13827 Britoak Ln 77079 Brewer Michelle From Our Kitchen to Yours Michelle Brewer 1306 Nails Creek 77478

Mckenzie Maurice R Abraham Temple No. 7 17138 Quail Park Dr 77489 Valencia Andres Felipe Strong Tire Shop 1604 1St Street 77471 Austin Shawona Austin Entertainment 16430 Ash Point Ln 77498 Zolkoski Michael Zee Consulting 1610 Quarterpath 77406

Horne Elizabeth Marie All For One Cares 931 Mockingbird Way 77478 Diaz Geovanni Exclusive Trade 15806 Beechnut St 77083 Malik Naveed Ahmad USASHOPS4U 4126 Harwood Drive 77479 Benton William Rose-Rich Realty 1509 Georgina Street 77471 Fletcher Tara (+) Tbh Business Consulting 25323 Sierra Woods Lane 77494 Koch Tiffany Truly Sweet Memories Photography 10543 East Aliana Trace 77407

Sanders Thomas The Houston Photobooth (+) 1019 Mill Shadow Ct 77498

Rhodes Colin Jr Newtex Property Services 16530 Pademelon Dr 77498

Young Jennifer S Y’s Acres Kitchen 5115 Diamond Springs Dr 77459

Flores Randy L Rflores Landscaping 12903 Sugar Ridge Blvd #702

Sugarland Mission Bend Emergency Center PLLC Physicianser - Mission Bend 8910 Highwy 6 S 77083

Young Jennifer S Wise Acres Kitchen 5115 Diamond Springs Dr 77459

Woldemariam Solomon Solomon Delivery 2319 Cezanne Circle 77459

Pb Opco LLC Pure Barre 4857 Sweetwater Blvd 77479 Gulama Charles Hustle and Co. 3130 Rogerdale Ste 100 77042

Hinkle Charles CLH Wares 12310 Ashford Greer Ct 77478

Gulama Charles Vxn (Vixen) House 3130 Rogerdale Ste 100 77042

Hidalgo Jesus A (+) Mentors Group Consulting 4615 Glasgow Dr 77459

Rhodes Colin Jr Newtex Property Services 16530 Pademelon Dr 77498

Witte David L Houston Executive Recruitment Services 22510 Westenfield 77450

Hancock Kevin D Hancock Oilfield Interests 3326 El Dorado Blvd 77459

Martin Calvin Cl & S (+) 3612 Nails Rd 77476

Woodlands Mechanical Group LLC Core Mechanical 32815 Fm 2978 Rd Suite D 77354

Mccord Madeleine (+) All In All Home Services 26118 Flinton Dr 77406

Schuler Richard Wayne Aps - Associated Pest Products & Services 2306 Old Dixie Dr 77406

Speer Ginger C A Womans Touch 565 So Mason Rd #217 77450 Kana Timothy (+) Katy Boxing 1508 Whispering Oaks Dr 77493

Chokshi Jharna (+) Johnson’s Mobile Home Park 14311 Sandy Ripple Ct 77498

D’istria Martha Casanelli Casanelli 13500 West Airport Blvd Ste H 77498

Momin Almas (+) Cloud 9 Spa & Salon 7909 W Grand Pkwy 77407

Sampson Shereen Bramble Skin Care 1114 Woodland Ct 77406

Nguyen Bichphuong Thi (+) Chelsea Harbour Nails 14009B Fm 1464 77498

Garcia Eva Marie Kookie’s Cakes & Pies 2311 Old Dixie Dr 77406

Tucker Steven B Sbt Pro Machine 818 Spring Valley Ct 77479

Saanumi Adeniyi A (+) Rexny Enterprise Llp 20239 Benton Springs Ln 77407

Cintron Jose (+) Ct Transport 406 Jewel Landing 77459

Lengyel Larry G Manhood Ministries 6519 Mesa Canyon Ct 77450

Cintron Jose (+) Msf Transport 406 Jewel Landing 77459

Gonzalez Samuel Emiliano’s Auto Sales 4010 West Bellfort St Apt #446 77025

November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

DBA (Assumed Names)

Data Beat (+) = More Names

Navarro Leopoldo Navarro Trucking 2220 Meyer Rd 77417

Williams Johnny J R Kids Acamedy 8222 Soledad Dr 77083

Nguyen Anny (+) A&J Boutique 14335 Berrington Dr 77083

Ruiz Luis Carlos Garza (+) Garza Remodeling and Christmas Lights 1508 Rocky Falls 77469

Tibbs Marilyn D Marilyn Tibbs Properties P O Box 1581 77545 Tibbs Marilyn D Marilyn Tibbs Properties Escrow P O Box 1581 77545 Soto-Escamilla Jose Antonio Soto’s Kitchen 8817 Hwy 6 Suite 200 77459 Chapman Gerald R Regency A/C & Heating 7819 Manzano Dr 77083

Sorurbakhsh Rocio (+) Saaleph Management 4771 Sweetwater Blvd Suite 288 77479 Costello Myra (+) Berry Hippo 24550 Springwood Glen Ln 77494

Davison Tameka Ira’s Hands 6210 Santa Christi Dr 77053

Southern Girl Speaks Sole Mates 8740 Hwy 6 Suite 130 77459

Mixon Lynda C Innovative Campaign Solutions 1819 Redwood Ct Ste 201 77498

Aviles Maria Y (+) Sparkling Pets 7135 Longvine Dr 77072

Mixon Edward Dekalb III Pop Goes The Biz 1819 Redwood Ct Ste 201 77498

Taylor Brittany (+) Designs By B. Nicole 21811 Wildwood Park Road Apt #618 77469

Kamp Kay Stellar Coastal Homes 4435 Richmond Foster Rd 77406

Garza Marco Antonio Rosenberg Auto Repair Ave I 1215 77471

Rambo Newell Rambo Architect 14415 Tierra Grande Dr 77461

Jackson Tavey N Frat Bar 7210 Stevenson Dr 77459

Fasola Mathew (+) Theunik Ventures 17202 Pecan Tree Ct 77498

Nuon Mary Snowflake Donut 4110 Ave I 77471

Ordonez Jorge L Ordonez Shoe Repair 620 Fm 1092 Ste 111 77477

Lomelin Steven Jr Veronica’s Landscape Services 2310 Baudet Dr 77406

Akpaffiong Omar Chocolate Chef’s Catering 3826 Aerial Brook Trl 77545 Bautista Maria E (+) Meb-Elite Commerical Services 1504 Tobola St #B 77471 Arhelger Randall C Fort Bend Fabrication 28525 Rose Ln 77494

Espinoza Marco A Autumn Leaf 7 31826 Fulshear Creek Tr 77441 Jaco Gerald R (+) W.J Vacuum Services 326 Gentilly Dr 77450 Dike John Ibiyeomie Aliana Cleaners 6725 S Fry Rd #305 77494 Dike John Ibiyeomie Eco Green Maids 6725 S Fry Rd #305 77494

Richie Erika Baggy T’s 1203 Lexington Green Dr 77459 Awan & Zaman Inc Shell Food Mart Wozniak Richard J 2575 Eldridge Ste A Rd 77478 Wozniak Home Inspections 2006 Hanover Springs Ln 77406 Rehman Muhammad U (+) Nr Wholesale Singh Surjit 15422 Lynford Crest Dr 77083 Usa Top Travel 11569 Hwy 6 Ste 267 77498

Rice Marcus (+) Marc Rice Or Rice Auto 818 Ave H 77471

Drigo Lewis Mikes Construction 907 Citation Drive 77477

Loos Elizabeth Elizabeth Loos Consulting Services 4810 Arrowhead Lake 77459

Nguyen Son Minh Mason Nails 3750 S Mason Rd #300 77450

Mullins Travis (+) Knot Work Guide Service 2916 A Brundrett Rd 77485

Amtex Business Consulting Inc Integrated Business Consultants 815 Fairpark Ln 77479

Mixon Edward Dekalb III Pop Biz 1819 Redwood Ct Ste 201 77498

Stillwagon Kaila L (+) Taste Of Paradise 2203 Snowy Egret Dr 77494

Weldon Clint A Weldon Realty 11806 Mulholland 77477

Clark Kimberly (+) Kmc Ranch 4103 Freedom Tree Dr 77459

Le Hoa Thi-My Christina Le (+) 950 Corbinadale Dr #100 77024

Beadle Joseph R Ace Petro Networks 8482 Fm 3126 77351

Elements Of Life LLC Weathers Transport 8435 Quail Crest Dr 77489

Norris Bryan J (+) B + B Concessions 5350 New Territory Blvd 77479

Mican Melinda A Sweet Affair Bake Shoppe 3707 Glenmeadow Dr 77471 Trimble David Scott Postal Boxes - Sugar Land 935 Eldridge Road 77478 Ostorga Noe R (+) Ostorga’s Body Shop 16300 West Belfort 77469 Martin Patricia (+) First Class Cleaning Services 14519 Windy Willow Dr 77489

Shah Raju P (+) Shahs 225 Fluor Daniel Dr Apt #9309 77479 Wardell Susan Cowboys Way Po Box 812 77441 Moore Kenneth Inwood Funding 9900 Westpark #218 77063 Woods Charles (+) Xpress Carpet Solutions 1830 Glenwild Dr 77489 Huynh Amydiem (+) Polish Nails Studio 10422 Tenneco Dr 77099 Cuzzocreo Susan (+) Wayward Wind Designs 1123 Wellshire Dr 77494 Zatarz Services LLC Zatarz Global 5327 Wolfpen Ridge Ln 77459

Martinez Sergio M.G. Records 2500 Fairway Dr Apt 705 77511 Bui Anne D (+) Rio Nails and Spa 4504 Hwy 6 South 77478 Tcc Oil Services LLC Swain Consulting 3526 Stanbury Place Ln 77494 Moton Safwan M The Big Electric Warehouse (+) 3435 Chandler Hollow Ln 77459 Floyd Deborah (+) Floyd Piano Service 23627 Certosa Dr 77406 Waggoner Guy Britt (+) Apex Valves 6623 Rosemary Knoll 77494 Lerma Antonio Jr III House Of Blades Hair Studio 2745 Town Center Boulevard Suite #115 77479 Kocian Jimmie R J.K. WaLLCovering Inc 4707 Saddle Drive 77461 Hernandez Wendy Rubio (+) S & M Scrap Metal Recycling 4723 Fm 521 77545 Adewunmi Deborah Oluwakanyinsolami Mama Africa 2400 Briarwest Blvd Apt 1310 77077 Zazzy LLC Fete 1514 S Gabriel River Cir 77478 Campbell Karen Just Math Etc. 4023 Medici Court 77459 Waqar Yasir S & A Trading 7719 Butler Lakes Ct 77469

Neloms Laura Anakor Royal Cakes & Pastries 7206 Branford Pk Ln 77407

Mujadzic Joe (+) Century Glass and Interiors 2007 Highway 90A 77489

Cage Productions LLC Integrity Fitness 903 Edgewood Dr 77469

Mujadzic Joe (+) Century Glass and Mirror Co 2007 Highway 90A 77489

Ene Maxwell Maxlucent International 11731 W Belfort #1505 77477 Cage Productions LLC Cross Fit Rose Rich Afzal Mohammad 903 Edgewood Dr 77469 Axle Plus 2330 S Main St 77477

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

Star Realty Inc Star Realty 19627 Interstate 45 North #310 77388

57

Data Beat October 2013 Sales Tax Allocation Comparison Summary Reports Sales Tax Allocation Comparison Summary reports present data about monthly local sales and use tax allocation payments to local sales taxing jurisdictions.

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

County/City Fort Bend

Net Payment This Period

Comp Payment Prior Year

Percent Change

2013 Payments To Date

2012 Payments To Date

Percent Change

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

47,111.36 11,651.29 57,665.74 1,152.56 86,019.98 593,614.60 34,468.14 3,383.82 5,324.33 360,584.08 1,134,105.77 16,608.39 1,283,926.12 3,950,431.33 2,452.34

33,796.07 7,157.30 53,230.01 899.30 87,603.52 551,779.13 57,128.35 3,499.72 4,395.19 338,568.38 1,009,992.64 28,773.73 1,154,338.53 3,388,290.86 0.00

39.39% 62.78% 8.33% 28.16% -1.80% 7.58% -39.66% -3.31% 21.13% 6.50% 12.28% -42.27% 11.22% 16.59% U/C

376,366.74 87,238.85 638,877.93 8,888.00 933,362.28 6,101,523.47 341,963.79 35,543.66 46,674.95 3,768,101.75 11,541,949.43 173,477.04 13,464,954.73 36,898,652.28 27,671.43

302,011.28 78,935.64 522,163.46 11,112.13 869,868.78 5,362,400.08 359,109.51 36,757.42 67,893.03 3,350,446.66 10,552,808.01 135,261.41 11,983,710.53 36,166,136.73 11,119.50

24.62% 10.51% 22.35% -20.01% 7.29% 13.78% -4.77% -3.30% -31.25% 12.46% 9.37% 28.25% 12.36% 2.02% 148.85%

COUNTY TOTAL

7,588,499.85

6,719,452.73

12.93%

74,445,246.33

69,809,734.17

6.64%

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

City

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

58

Net Payment This Period

48,543,138.90 22,338,132.73 18,751,502.16 13,637,766.89 9,584,515.31 7,332,410.13 6,040,263.88 6,315,027.10 5,931,431.33 5,325,219.37 5,145,060.43 4,820,502.80 5,002,002.74 4,886,429.32 4,624,849.25 4,135,560.54 3,950,431.33 3,520,690.39 3,242,603.88 2,784,595.30

Comp Payment Prior Year

46,658,819.79 19,759,284.87 18,581,080.57 13,080,594.02 8,945,799.17 7,274,923.13 5,854,583.38 6,208,534.17 5,337,507.55 4,463,362.91 4,884,772.33 4,674,560.35 4,549,085.76 4,348,653.74 3,846,870.01 3,994,391.55 3,388,290.86 3,504,639.03 3,404,658.60 2,884,682.55

% Change To Date

4.03% 13.05% 0.91% 4.25% 7.13% 0.79% 3.17% 1.71% 11.12% 19.30% 5.32% 3.12% 9.95% 12.36% 20.22% 3.53% 16.59% 0.45% -4.75% -3.46%

2013 Payments To Date

504,766,785.50 221,749,531.06 199,699,435.58 138,847,753.68 98,073,649.74 79,200,760.92 63,260,014.42 63,059,120.97 58,356,974.98 57,807,631.79 56,363,895.57 51,546,743.03 49,478,384.87 48,571,756.55 48,566,860.23 43,476,603.12 36,898,652.28 36,115,199.52 33,913,563.76 33,633,346.09

November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

2012 Payments Change

471,670,489.93 202,241,694.57 192,498,816.30 131,359,433.94 92,736,803.26 73,605,628.67 61,836,979.86 60,321,394.48 54,241,845.06 56,928,144.97 53,095,279.72 49,888,173.86 45,941,025.56 44,244,262.02 40,739,052.22 39,974,927.45 36,166,136.73 33,185,608.64 34,600,487.96 28,976,481.08

Percent

7.01% 9.64% 3.74% 5.70% 5.75% 7.60% 2.30% 4.53% 7.58% 1.54% 6.15% 3.32% 7.69% 9.78% 19.21% 8.75% 2.02% 8.82% -1.98% 16.07%

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

TYPE OF PERMIT

VALUE

OWNER/CONTRACTOR

MISSOURI CITY 931 Lo-Yang Dr 2531 Cartwright Rd 9109 Sienna Christus Dr 4710 Hwy 6 4042 North Creekmont Dr 1003 Crestmont Place Loop 927 Crestmont Place Loop 1106 Crestnibt Place Loop 3942 Amalfi Shores Ct 3943 Amalfi Shores Ct 4139 NorthCreekmont Dr 6730 Sutters Creek Trl 2922 Cypress Point Dr

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

$1,005,000 $30,000 $1,300,000 $200,000 $180,000 $156,000 $156,000 $156,000 $259,000 $320,000 $180,000 $21,380 $12,500

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial)

09/01/13-09/30/13

$4,155,978

ROSENBERG 24401 Brazos Town Crossing 6450 Reading Rd

Commercial Building Commercial Building

$275,000 $1,200,000

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial)

09/01/13-09/30/13

$1,475,000

SUGAR LAND 306 Brooks St 210 Schlumberger Dr 16535 Southwest Fwy Ste K5505 2245 Texas Dr Ste 500 1235 Lake Pointe Pkwy Ste 103 13425 University Blvd Ste 900 2110 Town Square Pl 136 Eldridge Rd Bldg 9A 136 Eldridge Rd Bldg 9C 136 Eldridge Rd Bldg 9D 13020 Dairy Ashford Rd Ste 301 9722 US Hwy 90A Ste 102 11352 Sugar Park Ln 4200 Elkins Rd 17412 W Grand Pkwy S 9920 US Hwy 90 Ste 220B 14100 Southwest Fwy Ste 200 4710 State Hwy 6 12727 W Airport Blvd 17510 W Grand Pkwy S Ste 120 16535 Lexington Blvd Ste 145 15900 Southwest Fwy 16111 Kensington Dr 3591 State Hwy 6 16035 Lexington Blvd 4645 State Hwy 6 Ste C 13333 Southwest Fwy Ste 200 15200 Southwest Fwy Ste 180

Commercial Addition Commercial Addition Commercial Addition Commercial Addition Commercial Buildout Commercial Buildout Commercial Buildout Commercial Buildout 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

$206,522 $207,943 $19,200 $200,495 $215,180 $192,948 $750,000 $47,598 $34,978 $34,978 $173,378 $65,600 $2,624,285 $664,000 $198,612 $86,000 $137,717 $100,000 $270,000 $205,473 $122,400 $170,000 $204,540 $35,000 $750,000 $10,650 $14,926 $43,458

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial)

09/01/13-09/30/13

$7,790,769

Yeh David/Millis Development & Const.

Shaw Joel P Inc/Draper & Draper Contractors Burton Construction La Paloma Blanca LC/DPR Construction, A General PA Perry Homes, LLC Gateway Land Development/Crest/Gateway Homes Building Permit Gateway Land Development/Crest/Gateway Homes Building Permit Gateway Land Development/Crest/Gateway Homes Building Permit Legend Classic Homes LTD Legend Classic Homes LTD Perry Homes, LLC Hayes Robert L & Barbara E/Patio Cover Solutions Thistlethwaite Richard F & JOD/James Colomer Construction 7 D

Pemco, Inc US Builders

Brand Eric R & Elizabeth A/Howard Contracting Group Schlumberger Technology Corp/Hammonds Construction LLC First Clony Mall, LLC/Kenmar Ventures Town Center Lakeside LTD/Trademark Construction & Remod Lake Pointe Parkway Properties/TRZ Builders LLC NNP-Telfair, LP/Robert Dering Construction Town Center Lakeside, LTD/Punditz LLC Simron Properties, LLC/New York Real Estate Inc Simron Properties, LLC/New York Real Estate Inc Simron Properties, LLC/New York Real Estate Inc Southwest Medical Village, LLC/JBD Construction, LLC Nguyen Family Partnership, LTD/Provest Group Inc Warwick Construction Ft Bend ISD/Bass Construction EMI Corp/Triad Retail Construction Dallas Mini No 46, LTD/Loggins Construction RMC Sugarcraft LP ETAL/Schulin Conracting Serv Inc DPR Construction Amerisource Bergen Corp/Kajima Building & Design Group Memorial Hermann Hospital/C A Walker, Inc APAAR Lexington Square, LC/Precon Construction Services Lake Pointe Town Center, LTD/D&C Contracting, Inc MG Capital, LLC/Jacob White Construction Co Eqyinvest First Colony Owner L/EHS Construction LP 2600 Interests, LTD/GWH Renovations Prominent Sugar Land, LLC/Timely Development LTD Sugar Creek Baptist Church/Evan Construction MOB 124 of texas, LP/Rick Behr Construction Inc

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

59

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

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

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

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

SERVICE DIRECTORY

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

Auto Repair / Maintenance

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

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

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

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

Economic Development

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

12 MONTHS LISTING FOR ONLY $300 60

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!

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

November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

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

At Carlton Staffing, we make connections that work!

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

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

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

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

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

Riverbend Country Club 281-269-2526 www.riverbendcountryclub.org triciarbcc@gmail.com. Tricia Hawks, 1214 Dulles Avenue, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Conveniently located in the heart of Sugar Land, Riverbend Country Club is just 25 minutes south of downtown Houston, Texas. Established in 1957, Riverbend continues its tradition as Fort Bend County’s only member owned club. Whether

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.

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

2515 Ave. H, Rosenberg, Texas 77471. 281-3415060, Fax 281-341-5558.

Jewelers

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

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

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

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

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

Glass Block/Showers/Windows South Texas Glass Block 281-355-8882 www. stglassblock.com We offer complete glass block solutions, providing excellent

Texas State Healthcare & Hospice Care 281-208-4344 or 979-323-7099 www.txstatehealthcare.com What we do: Skilled Nursing - Home Health Aide Physical/Speech/Occupational Therapies - Medical Social Worker assisting with durable medical equipment needs and helping to provide Resources & Services in the Community - Wound Care - Catheter Care - Diabetic Care Lab Services - IV Therapy and more... “Hometown Nurses Helping Hometown People” Home Inspection Services Armadillo Home Inspection Services 281-342-9955 Stan Snyder Licensed Professional Inspector TREC # 5285 inspectorstan@sbcgloal.net “A Home Inspection Saves You $$$!”

Ice Cream Specialties Southern Ice Cream 281-499-9837 www.SouthernIceCreamTX.com Great for all occasions! Reward your employees, clients or families. Serve delicious ice cream specialties from Southern Ice Cream in Stafford, Texas. Do you have a special fundraising project or marketing project on your mind? Schedule a push cart, ice cream truck or vintage ‘Original Good Humor’ truck to deliver these speciality deserts. Southern Ice Cream prides itself on personalized service delivering frozen treats efficiently to cool down even the hottest Houston days! It’s easy to book this unique and rewarding ice cream experience, just visit www.SouthernIceCreamTX.com or call Michelle at 281-499-9837.

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

Call us for affordable credible coverage.

Insurance Solutions of Texas 281-565-2222 • 281-341-5060 www.insurancesolutionsoftexas.com Jay Harris, Auto, Home, Business, Flood Insurance.

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

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

SERVICE DIRECTORY

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.

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

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

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

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

continued, on page 62

61

Real Estate / Residential

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.

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

SERVICE DIRECTORY

Physicians

62

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

We perform oral HIV testing also. Mobile onsite clinics available for churches and corporations.

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

Printers / Graphics Star Printing 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com We professionally design and print flyers, postcards, brochures, magazines, newspapers and catalogs in high-quality digital graphics.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Residential real estate sales & corporate relocation.

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

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

SERVING FORT BEND & SURROUNDING COUNTIES FOR OVER 35 YEARS.

November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

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

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

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

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

Water Softening and Purification Systems RS Water Service 281-416-9353 www.rswaterservice.com info@rswaterservice.com R & S Water Service is a Full Service Licensed Water Treatment Company. We offer Cost-Effective and Long-Lasting Water Softeners. We are 30%-50% less expensive than other water softening companies and we offer the best customer service even after the sale!

Sales, Service and Installation of Water Softeners, No Salt Conditioners, Reverse Osmosis Systems, Well Water Systems, Ambassador II Chem-Free Iron Filter Systems and Chloramine Removal Systems. We also can test and repair Back Flow devices. For other services or any questions please contact us. 281-4169353 or info@rswaterservice.com. **List with the BBB. **Licensed members of the TWQA Texas Water Quality Association.

12 MONTHS LISTING FOR ONLY $300

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 281242-0432. www.alingshakka.com. $$ AURA Restaurant Chef/Owner Frédéric Perrier brings over 30 years experience to his newest venture AURA. In an upscale yet casually comfortable setting, Innovative American Cuisine reigns and is highlighted in the numerous Daily Specials. AURA features only the finest, freshest ingredients. A three course prix fixe lunch for $12.95 to Mussles Marinieres, Roasted Red Snapper or Filet Mignon with Cognac Peppercorn Sauce. No need to go to Houston or into Sugar Land for a truly high quality dining experience... you will easily find it at AURA

(without ‘Big Restaurant’ prices!) at Township Square - Missouri City. Lunch Mon-Sat 11-2.

Dinner Mon-Thurs 5-9 and Fri-Sat 5-10. Please call for Reservations &/or Catering ~ 3400 FM 1092, 81-403-AURA (2872). $$ • WB BLU Restaurant | Lounge BLU boasts a globally influenced, Euro-Asian menu from acclaimed Executive Chef Junnajet “Jett” Hurapan. With a diverse background that spans cuisine from Thailand to New American and Mediterranean, Chef Jett’s dinner menu offers an extensive array of both small and larger plates perfect for sharing. Looking for a great deal, come enjoy an incredible three-course lunch menu for $12 Tues - Fri, and $4 happy hour menu Tues - Sun. BLU recently started a Live Jazz Sunday Brunch from 11am to 3pm! Visit www.blusugarland.com ~ 2248 Texas Drive 281.903.7324. $$ • WB Bombay Palace Do you want to savor some of the best Indian food in all Bombay of Fort Bend, surrounded Palace by elegant furnishings, a majestic mahogany fullservice bar and soothing background music? You can also book your very own private wine room that seats up to 14. Bombay Palace offers fine dining at affordable prices. Savor two of their finest dishes: Rack of Lamb that is skillfully marinated with ginger, garlic and our secret spices or the fabulous Chilean Sea Bass that is topped with a garlic spinach. Both dishes are served for under $20. Bombay Palace is open seven days a week for Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H November 2013

lunch: M-F – 11:00-2:00 and on Saturday-Sunday – 11:30-3:00; and then again for dinner every day from 5:30-10:00. On Saturday and Sunday, come in and enjoy either the delicious Tawa Special or Chat Corner. We cater for any sized party! Book your holiday party now. We promise you won’t be disappointed! 15295 SW Freeway, Sugar Land, 281.325.0071, www.bombaypalacesugarland. com. $$ • FB Cafe India Come enjoy the best Indian food in Fort Bend County!

Sultan Momin is not only the friendly owner but also one of the experienced chefs in this quiet, very clean family-owned restaurant. Cafe India offers an excellent, fresh lunch buffet selection from 11:002:45 every day (except closed on Tuesday). From Monday-Thursday, come in and have an a-la-carte dinner and then enjoy a free dessert! Cafe India has not only received excellent reviews but is affordable and specializes in catering for any event.

There is no better Tandoori Chicken, flavorable vegetable samosas, lamb dishes or biryani in town!

Cafe India offers an excellent meal selection for two or four people. Cafe India is also open for dinner Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 5:00-9:30 p.m., and then on Friday and Saturday from 5:00-10:00 p.m. Affordable, fresh, authentic Indian food while also offering wine and beer in a relaxed atmosphere. Cafe India is located at 2319 Williams Trace, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Call 281-565-5881 or visit www.cafeindia-restaurant.com. $ • WB continued, on page 64

63

FOOD, DRINK, ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE 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 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 Hoggs n’ Chicks At Hoggs & Chicks, we have a casual atmosphere for everyone’s dining pleasure. We serve a delicious and original French/Southern influenced cuisine that satisfies those with ‘Small Bites’ to those with a Larger Appetite. As we like to say; “Southern Fried with a French Twist” – Frédéric Perrier (chef)! Hours Monday-Thursday 11am – 8:30pm, Friday 11am – 9pm, Saturday 10:30am – 9pm, Sunday 10:30am – 8pm. 8817 Hwy. 6 Suite 900, Missouri City, TX 77459.

(281)778-4644. Visit us online at www. hoggsnchicks.com/. $$

64

Las Haciendas Mexican Bar & Grill Santos Escobar and his brother Ascension Escobar serve up dozens of heaping traditional gourmet Mexican plates. Lunch Specials run weekdays from 11am - 3pm. Great margaritas, fajitas and much more. Catering available as well as a party room for private parties. • 12821 Southwest Freeway. 281-240-3060. $ • FB Lupe Tortilla Do you want to experience the best Mexican food surrounded in the most relaxing ambiance! Then Lupe Tortilla is your choice!

With two excellent locations off I-10 at 9313-A Katy Freeway; 713.491.6165; and now in Sugar Land at 15801 SW Freeway, 281.265.7500. If you haven’t tasted our world famous lime-pepper marinated beef fajitas that are shipped overnight to our grill, you’ve truly missed out!

Visit us online at www.lupetortilla.com. It’s an experience you don’t want to miss out on! $$ Veritas Steak & Seafood The Rios family invites you to come and experience a superb quality cuisine and impeccable service combined with an elegant and warm ambiance at Veritas Steak & Seafood. Join them for a wonderful culinary adventure featuring USDA certified prime beef, chops, fresh seafood, soups, sandwiches, salads and an outstanding wine selection. They are open for both lunch and dinner Monday – Thursday 11:00 – 10:00 pm, Friday 11:00 – 11:00 pm, Saturday 4:00 – 11:00 pm, and closed on Sunday. Partake in their happy hour specials from 4:00 – 7:00 pm Monday – Saturday. 1550 Lake Pointe Parkway, Suite 500, Sugar Land • Call 281491-2901. www.VeritasSteakandSeafood.com. $$ • FB November 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

Tradicao Brazilian Steakhouse Tradicao Brazilian Steakhouse is the premier steakhouse in Fort Bend.

Tradicao, pronounced Tra-dee-son, was named after the Brazilian word for “tradition” and founded on the idea to continue this traditional way of grilling. They are a family owned and operated churracaria whose goal is to make sure your dining experience is one you will never forget. Their prixe fixe menu includes 14 cuts of perfectly grilled meats brought to your table side, a large salad bar and hot sides. Private dining and catering is available. Tradico would like to invite you to come join them, sit back and relax. Lunch Mon-Fri 11am-2pm and Sun 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. $S • FB Salata Salata is a fresh and unique way to eat healthy and create your own freshly prepared hand tossed salad or salad wrap. Offering over 50 toppings of fruits and vegetables with the option to add chicken or seafood. Salata’s Signature Dressings, Soups and Sauces are made in house and are Gluten Free. We cater and deliver for any occasion including business meetings or training sessions. In a hurry? Go to Salata.com and we’ll have your order prepared and ready to go. We are conveniently located across from the Marriott and in the corridor of the Coca-Cola/ Minute Maid building. We are attached to Lone Star parking garage with FREE parking. For catering service contact Vilma (cell) 832-2795323, Fax: 832-886-4591, Email: Sugarland@ salata.com. $ Yong’s Asian Fusion “Yong’s Asian Fusion is located at FM 1093 between Bois D’arc & Cross Creek, 29615 FM 1093, Fulshear, Texas. Delivery available SundayThursday with minimum order of $25.00.

Hours: Closed Mondays; Tues-Thurs 11-2pm, 4:30-9pm; Fri & Sat 11-10pm; Sunday 11-9pm.

Call 281-346-8196 or yongsfood1@yahoo.com $ • FB

Subscribe

TODAY And receive the Business Journal in your mailbox for

ONLY 25 $

for 12 issues (1 year)

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

Fort Bend/Katy

or charge my card $25 #________________________________________________ exp:_______________________________ Name:_ _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Business:______________________________________________________________________________________________ Address:_ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ City:__________________________________________________________________________________________________ State:_______________________________________________________________ Zip:_______________________________ E-mail:_________________________________________________________________

cut here

how can we help?

Appointments & Online Scheduling Houston Methodist Sugar Land Doctors Send an E-greeting Visit the Web Nursery Maps & Directions News & Events

how can we help?

Appointments & Online Scheduling Houston Methodist Sugar Land Doctors Send an E-greeting Visit the Web Nursery Maps & Directions News & Events