October 2010 - The Business Lifestyle Magazine Digital Edition by Fort Bend Business Journal

Fort Bend/Katy

Volume 28 • No. 10

THE BUSINESS LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

OCTOBER 2010

Memorial Hermann Southwest sets the standard in laparoscopic Heart & Vascular Institute Southwest Heart & Vascular Institute surgical procedures Southwest INSIDE STORIES

n Busy LaCentrerra Plans Phase II Development n Where Are You In Your Life? n Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter n There’s an Exciting Raceway in Katy General surgeons George Peterkin, M.D., Guillermo Ponce De Leon, M.D., John Fisher, M.D., Charles Aramburo, M.D., Michael Kleinman, M.D., and Michael Todd Wood, M.D., celebrate HealthGrades ranking Memorial Hermann Southwest’s General Surgery department in the top 5 percent of U.S. hospitals for three consecutive years. Photo by Larry Pullen Photography

$4.95

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

Treat yourself to the gift of good health. At OakBend Medical Center, we believe that one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself is the gift of good health. That’s why we encourage women to pamper themselves—and their health—by practicing regular self-breast exams and scheduling annual physicals and mammograms.

A special gift from OakBend & Spa 3-5-9 In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, every patient who receives a mammogram during October will receive a special discount at Spa 3-5-9 PLUS be entered to win a facial gift certificate and a basket of skin care products. To schedule your exam, please call (281) 341-4817.

TEXIAN MARKET DAYS GROWS AS TEXAS DIRECT AUTO SIGNS ON AS MAJOR SPONSOR

he 27th annual Texian Market Days are scheduled for October 23, 2010 and a new major sponsor for the event is Texas Direct Auto! This familyfriendly living history festival is the perfect setting for the nation’s largest independent car dealership to partner with the Fort Bend community in reliving its proud heritage. Texian Market Days documents various historical events for southeast Texas including lifestyles of the Fort Bend County area dating back to the 1830’s. Texas Direct Auto, conducting business in Fort Bend County since 2003, may not have the long-storied history being reenacted by volunteers during the event, but they have established themselves as the nation’s largest independent car dealership! Education among students is a vital asset of the community and portions of the proceeds from the event are dedicated to educational programs offered yearround by the Fort Bend Museum. Texas Direct Auto Director of Business Development Jessica DeMarr stated, “In our system of marketing, we’ve proven that it takes a commitment to excellence in order to achieve our corporate goals, so assisting students in achieving their educational goals creates a win-win for them and the community. We’re proud to be a part of their growth!”

With a mission to educate, entertain and inspire, Texian Market Days is a combination of historical reenactments about the colorful history of southeast Texas and is coordinated by the Fort Bend County Museum Association. Not only is the festival fun for visitors, a Civil War camp and battle reenactments are staged by volunteers. Other events include historic home tours, archeological digs, food and live entertainment. “The Fort Bend County Museum Association is deeply grateful for the generous support of Texas Direct Auto as the ‘Presenting Sponsor’ of Texian Market Days,” added Candace Jones, Executive Director of the Fort Bend County Museum Association. “Funds raised during this festival support our year round educational programs and preservation efforts. We are very proud that Texas Direct Auto recognizes the importance of our mission, and we commend them for their outstanding legacy of community support.” The event will be held at the 480-acre George Ranch Historical Park located at 10215 FM 762 in Richmond, Texas. The park is divided into four clearly-defined historical sites and loosely follows these eras: 1830’s Jones stock farm, 1860’s Ryon prairie home, 1890’s Davis Victorian mansion, and a 1930’s George cattle complex.

SELL US YOUR CAR With over $500+ Million in annual sales, Texas Direct Auto is the Largest Independent dealership in the nation and is the largest eBay Motor’s dealership in the world! Visit us online or come to Stafford just southwest of Houston to see our huge lot and massive inventory that are sure to have exactly what you are looking for in your next car. 12053 SW Freeway, Stafford Texas 77477 • 281-499-8200

C O N T E N T S

Fort Bend/Katy

Cover Story Memorial Hermann Southwest sets the standard in laparoscopic surgical procedures

Volume 28 • Number 10 • October 2010 For subscriptions send check for $25 to Fort Bend Business Journal

pg.

Special Feature

Breast Cancer Awareness...........................................................................................

PUBLISHER.................................... Beverly Carter GENERAL MANAGER............Michael Fredrickson EDITOR ...........................................Sharon Wallingford

Inside Stories

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

The Ewers to Lead Fort Bend’s 2011 Red Cross Super Ball X........................................ 5 Busy LaCenterra Plans Phase II Development.................................................................... 6 Ron Reynolds Readies for State Representative District 27 Duties............................... 8 Triumph Hospital Raises the Bar and Adds New Faces ............................................... 10 Mom Knows Best Among Easy Riders............................................................................... 12 There’s an Exciting Raceway in Katy.................................................................................. 14 Texas Scenic Cities Recognized - Missouri City & Sugar Land among 14................ 15 Keeping Track: Celebrating Rail in Fort Bend County.................................................... 22 National Night Out in Fort Bend........................................................................................... 30 BIG SHOTS - Rotary Club -Shrimpfest - Fort Bend County Fair & Rodeo Houston Community Bank Pre-sponsor Party................................................................. 45 Mobility and Safety Bring New Vitality to FM 359............................................................ 57 Tim Stubenrouch

Monthly Columns

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

Money Talks

MARKETING CONSULTANTS................ Dottie Childs ...................................................... Roxanne Gray ...................................................Jerry Poscovsky ........................................................Ann Sturrock RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST.........................................Becky Hall COLUMNISTS.................................. Kolbe Curtice ....................................................Alan Sandersen ..................................................Tim Stubenrouch CONTRIBUTORS . .......................Wayne Chandler .......................................................... Elsa Maxey .......................................................Sonya Packer ..................................Barbara Magana Robertson .............................................................Dori Wind ART DIRECTOR.................................Joey Belleza GRAPHIC DESIGNER / WEB.............Carlo Arcillas

Discusses Where Are You In Your Life?........... 11

Alan Sandersen

Kolbe Curtice CCIM, CLS

Tax Smart Discusses

Commercial Real Estate

3 Uncomplicated Retirement Benefits Options for Small Businesses............ 7

Discusses Feeling Better About Feeling Better!.............................. 13

Monthly Departments Fort Bend Chamber Newsletter.......................................................................... 37-44 Data Beat........................................................................................................... 46-49 Newsworthy....................................................................................................... 50-53 Service Directory............................................................................................... 54-55 Names in the News........................................................................................56 & 58 Dining and Entertainment................................................................................. 61-63

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

ON THE COVER General surgeons George Peterkin, M.D., Guillermo Ponce De Leon, M.D., John Fisher, M.D., Charles Aramburo, M.D., Michael Kleinman, M.D., and Michael Todd Wood, M.D., celebrate HealthGrades ranking Memorial Hermann Southwest’s General Surgery department in the top 5 percent of U.S. hospitals for three consecutive years. Photo by: Larry Pullen

EXCLUSIVE OFFER FOR PANASONIC TELEPHONE SYSTEM OWNERS OR PURCHASERS Switch to ProStar Communications I.P. Telephone Service and get features such as... • Caller ID Name & Number • Free Long Distance • Voice Mail to Email • Free Maintenance & Programming Changes • E-Fax • Disaster Routing • Discount on Panasonic Parts • In-House Financing for Equipment

Call today for a free no obligation quote 281-265-3500 One Call, One Source, UNLIMITED SOLUTIONS System Moves • Voice Data Cabling Security Cameras

Business Telephone Systems www.prostarcomm.com Voice • Data • Video Serving Fort Bend County Sales • Service • Intallation & Houston - Since 1992

ProStar Communications is an Authorized Panasonic Dealer

IT’S HERE! Business Telephone Systems Voice • Data • Video Sales • Service • Intallation

Video. On Demand. 24/7. On your website. Are you taking advantage of this powerful tool to set yourself apart from the competition? You can now have your commercial playing around the clock to a global audience. Google and other search engines love video. A video on your website will place you higher in search rankings. And your customers love video. It’s dynamic and engaging. At Star Video Digital Productions, we can help you from conception to completion with your video marketing. Whether you need high-quality video for your website, a TV commercial for traditional cable or broadcast or a promotional video on DVD to deliver to potential customers, we can help.

October 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Editor’s Preview by Sharon Wallingford

The Editorial Advisory Board Kolbe Curtice CCIM, CLS Curtice Commercial Real Estate

October is best! all is my favorite time of the year. It’s my hope you enjoy it as well. The juggling of football and hockey schedules, along with the preparation of favorite dishes, a drive in the country to capture nature in the completed harvests before they are shipped to various parts of the world, visits to bazaars and

festivals, and get-togethers with friends and business associates are all welcome activities when temperatures cool. It’s time to think about fall gardens. Most birds begin their journey south and many

Jacqueline Baly Chaumette President and CEO Baly Projects, LLC

before they go consume many of the weed seeds that would otherwise damage our backyard landscaping. This month the journal brings you timely announcements, the latest on healthcare techniques, and beneficial columns that will help you set the pace for our improving

Louis Garvin President and CEO Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce

economy. Read how Fort Bend continues to stay on schedule with transportation needs such as the improvements to FM 359 funded by federal stimulus money and what Missouri City resident Ron Reynolds is doing in preparation to taking his seat in the House

Dee Koch Grant Officer The George Foundation

of Representatives in Austin in January. Want to know who’s on the short list for designing and building Sugar Land’s ball park? Become aware what your city is planning for National Night Out. All the activities

Becky Munnell President and CEO Blue Jungle Marketing

are listed on page 30. Turn another page to find what your local chamber of commerce has planned that can profit your business and to discover the new businesses in your neighborhood. Enjoy October!

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

Ching. Keep the cash registers ringing. Tim Stubenrouch President First Community Bank

Sharon K. Wallingford

John Whitmore Whitmore Company

The Buzz Box

Sharon,

Contact: Sharon K. Wallingford skwcountry@aol.com

I saw that you have taken the job as Editor for the FBBJ. Congratulations on the new endeavor. I like the magazine a lot and read it every time it comes to the office.

Dean West dean@fortbendstar.com

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

Mario A. Martinez

The Law Offices of Mario A. Martinez, PLLC

The Ewers to lead Fort Bend’s 2011 Red Cross Super Ball X

ort Bend’s American Red Cross Super Ball X committee is ready to kick off a new season. Ron and Juliana Ewer will serve as the Honorary Chairmen for the anniversary event scheduled for Saturday, January 22, 2011 at Safari Texas Ranch in Richmond. The Ewers, owners of Legacy Ford Lincoln Mercury located in Rosenberg, have been long-standing supporters of the American Red Cross. As community leaders and employers in Fort Bend County, Ron and Juliana recognize the importance of the life-saving training that the American Red Cross provides and have invested resources in not only supporting the American Red Cross Super Ball, but in ensuring that their staff are trained to save lives and prevent illness. The Ewers have been active community partners since they came to Fort Bend just a few years ago, and their support has made a substantial impact on the community. “Ron and Juliana are always among the first to step up to the plate when we kick off Super Ball each year, and with this being our 10th anniversary event, we are pleased to honor the Ewer’s as this year’s Honorary Chairmen,” said Sandra Startz, Managing Director of the American Red Cross. “We are delighted to recognize them for their commitment and support of the American Red Cross’ mission. This year’s proceeds from the American Red Cross Super Ball X will support service delivery, program operations and general operating needs for the American Red Cross Southwestern Branch and sponsorships range from $1,000 to $10,000. In addition to receiving tickets to the event, sponsors at the $2,500 and above level receive Standard First Aid with Adult CPR Courses for their employees. Sponsorship levels outlining benefits and forms are available online at www.houstonredcross.org/super-ball or by contacting the American Red Cross office at 281.342.9480. To purchase tickets to the American Red Cross Super Ball X, to serve as a committee volunteer, donate an auction item or to participate as a sponsor to the event, contact the American Red Cross Southwestern Branch at 281.342.9480 or e-mail sstartz@ghac.org.

Taking the front seat are Juliana & Ron Ewer. Serving in their second season as Head Coaches for the event are May W. Tape, DDS, Carol Whileyman, and Cindy Reaves. October 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Busy LaCenterra plans Phase II development By Wayne Chandler

oody Mann cheered when all the results of a market research survey were reported for LaCenterra, the lifestyle center at Cinco Ranch in Katy. “We had a terrific response from our questions about what to add (to LaCenterra),” said Mann, the Vista Equities Group developer who created LaCenterra in 2007. Requests from the responding businesses and residences were for more retail, office and some housing for the remaining half of the 35-acre property. “We’re at 100 per cent capacity on retail,” Mann said, “and we’ll chug along as this economy will let us.” He expects all new development to be complete no later than the fall of 2012. This addition to this upscale center will be Phase II and will add about 130,000 square feet of retail space, about 70,000 square feet of office space, and some 240 upscale apartment units to the south end of the property. Phase I has 170,000 square feet of retail and 90,000 square feet of office space . “There’s a need for Class A apartments,too,” Mann said, which will be priced at $125 per square foot and up.” New housing continues to thrive in the Katy area as more families seek the Katy school district for their children. Mann, chairman of the Katy Area Economic Development Council, stressed the need for voter approval of the Katy ISD bond referendum this November 2. Mann pointed out that the school district enrollment continues to grow at more than 4 per cent each year even though the economy’s growth rate is less than that. Recent additions to LaCenterra’s tenant roster include boutiques, restaurants and specialty food retailers, along with business offices, totaling 20,700 square feet. New retailers include Berripop Frozen Yogurt, Fit N Fresh Gourmet, Otto’s Deluxe Grille, and Paper Lane Stationery and Gifts,Too. Relocating businesses to LaCenterra include Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate, the law office of Scott P. Callahan,P.C., and Woodco Fund Management.

Franchisee Justin Schoeneman of Katy leased 1,540 square feet for Berripop. Partners Mike Rizutto of Sugar Land and Al Gross of Round Rock have leased 2,000 square feet for Fit N Fresh. Houston’s noted Otto’s Barbecue and Hamburgers is opening a new concept restaurant with 2,6487 square feet. Mother and daughter-in-law Janice and Chris Therrien have leased 1,475 square feet for Paper Lane. Anderson Properties has leased 3,534 square feet of retail space for Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate agents and brokers. The Callahan law firm has just relocated from its Galleria location. Woodco Fund relocates to Katy from its Dairy Ashford space in Houston. Mann said that Vista has commitments from three other retailers which will be announced soon. Phase I tenants include Ann Taylor Loft, Chico’s, Eddie Bauer, J.Jill, Talbots and Luke’s Locke5r. Restaurants include Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille, Kenzo Sushi Bistro, Baker Street Pub & Grill and Las Alamedas Mexican restaurant. Mann said this mixed-use town center development will pick up speed as the econ-

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

omy improves. He noted that the Katy area has escaped much of the national economic downturn. There still is interest from national retailers, “but when you’re sitting in an office in Chicago (or other parts of the nation) you can’t always believe what he have,” Mann said. Vista Equities, with Denver-based Amstar Group, started LaCenterra , at Cinco Ranch Boulevard and Grand Parkway, three years ago within the 7,600-acre master planned Cinco Ranch community. LaCenterra’s clock tower has become a community identifier. While LaCenterra admits to an immediate captive market within a three mile radius, Mann said that the center attracts customers continuously from within a 10-mile radius. “Our retailers tell us that they have regulars from Brookshire, Sealy, Houston and Sugar Land.” Mann said. With its open-air shopping center, courtyards and landscaping, LaCenterra uses its public spaces for community events for mothers, teachers and other groups. There’s a special farmers’ market on Saturdays. Mann said “We’re very positive about the future. We’re very blessed.”

Y O U

A N D

Y O U R

Tax Smart

T A X E S

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

3 Uncomplicated retirement benefits options for small businesses For small business owners, a 401(k) plan may be impractical for a variety of reasons. Yet helping employees save for their retirement is a perk for many businesses and a great way to retain valuable employees. So what can you do? Three possibilities exist, and two of them allow employees to save quite a bit more than they can with a traditional IRA. Remember, contributions to a traditional IRA are limited to $5,000 for 2010 or $6,000 if the employee is 50 or older. Here are the three options: 1. The SEP plan. This allows you the employer to contribute more money to an employee’s IRA account than otherwise allowed under the standard IRA rules. For 2009, the employer can contribute and deduct up to 25% of an employee’s compensation up to

$245,000, or $49,000, whichever is less. IRS rules exclude SEP contributions from pay and you won’t include the contribution amount on the participant’s IRS Form W-2. Strict eligibility rules apply. 2. The SIMPLE IRA. This option is generally available to employers with no more than 100 employees who earned compensation of $5,000 or more, so this is the first hurdle you will face. The maximum employee contribution for 2010 is generally $11,500. Employers must make either a standard matching or nonelective contribution each year to maintain a SIMPLE IRA. Again, strict eligibility rules apply. 3. The payroll deduction IRA. This involves you the employer merely setting up the program with a financial institution and

encouraging its employees to make contributions. These IRAs are no different from “outside” IRAs except that the employer can withhold the money and submit it directly from payroll into the IRA. In addition to clearing the psychological hurdle of actually writing a check to an IRA, this allows for smaller contributions by the employee. The main difference between these alternatives is the contribution limits. Consider these options as part of your overall tax and business planning and then ask a plan sponsor to see if one of these three plans is a good fit for your business. Alan Sandersen is a columnist for the Fort Bend Business Journal and is a partner with Sandersen Knox & Co, L.L.P., Certified Public Accountants. He can be reached at 281-2423232. www.sktx.com. H

The most experienced

20-year-olds in the business. 713.690.0000 CaldwellCos.com Development | Brokerage | Investments | Asset Management | Educational Facilities October 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Ron Reynolds readies for State Representative District 27 duties By Dori Wind

n January 1, 2011, Ronald E. Reynolds will take over the office of State Representative of District 27 of the Texas House of Representatives. He defeated incumbent Dora Olivo, who had been the district representative since 1997, in the March Democratic primary and does not have a Republican opponent in the November election. Reynolds is enthusiastic about being both a listener and orator for his constituents. He explained that the reason for his candidacy was because: “It is my belief that to whom much is given, much is required. Much has indeed been given to me, and as a result, I have devoted my life to public service. As State Representative of District 27, I will serve the residents and business owners in Fort Bend County by advocating for high-quality education and economic empowerment for our community. These will be my top two priorities when I go to Austin in January.” In preparing for his new job, Reynolds said, “I have attended numerous school board meetings and met with superintendents, school boards and teachers to learn about their needs.” He indicated they were extremely pleased that someone was willing to come to their campuses and offices to learn about their issues. Reynolds pointed out that Texas may have an $18 billion dollar shortfall this next biennium so it will be very important to find creative ways to make certain that education remains a priority despite any economic adversity. To empower economic development in the county, Reynolds noted that he has also met and talked with Jeff Wiley, president of the Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council, to hear about business issues in the county. He also met and talked with chambers of commerce around the county. District 27 includes representation of residents in Fresno,

Arcola, the City of Houston, Missouri City, Richmond, Rosenberg, Stafford and Sugar Land. Reynolds emphatically stated that, “for the county to continue to Ronald Reynolds be an economic leader in Texas we must have an educated workforce. “Education and business development are necessary components to continuing the high quality of life that we currently enjoy in Fort Bend County,” he continued. “I intend to encourage small businesses to be active in the development community and to learn about programs such as HUB (Historically Underutilized Businesses) and the SBA (Small Business Administration). I believe there are many ways we can help the business and academic communities and I will carry that message to Austin. “I am also very interested in working with other fellow legislators, including Republicans and Democrats, to achieve these goals. To that end I have had discussions with US Congressman Pete Olson, State Senator Joan Huffman and with members of the Houston legislative delegation so that together we can make sure that Fort Bend County receives its fair share of resources and continues to be one of the best places to live in the entire country,” stated Reynolds. A product of Fort Bend public schools and Texas colleges, Reynolds is a personal injury and employment law attorney. As a partner in the Houston law firm of Brown, Brown and Reynolds, PC, Reynolds also has first hand experience in being a small business owner. He received his bachelor’s degree with honors magna cum laude in Public Affairs with a concentration in Administration of Justice from Texas Southern University, in Houston. Reynolds received a Doctor of Jurisprudence from Texas Tech University School of Law, and is licensed by the Supreme Court of Texas

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

to practice law in all state courts in Texas. He served as an Associate Municipal Judge for the City of Houston and as an adjunct professor at Texas Southern University. He currently serves as General Counsel for the Houston Black Expo and a non-profit organization benefiting sickle-cell research. As testament to his dedicated legal and civic engagement, Reynolds has received numerous awards. These awards include: “Houston’s Top Attorney” by H Texas Magazine, American Red Cross Humanitarian Award, Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce “Business Pinnacle Award”, Ever Ready Lodge 2007 Trailblazer’s Award, MLK Drum Major for Justice Award, EEOC Civil Rights AllStar Award, NAACP ALEX Award for Legal Excellence, Missouri City Juneteenth Community Service Award, Senator Rodney Ellis “Texas Leader of the Future Award”, YMCA Minority Achievers Award, Rolling Out Magazine “Houston’s Top 40 Leaders Under 40”, Black Business Houston Magazine named him “Best of the Best Attorney”, Who’s Who in Law and Who’s Who in Black Houston. Reynolds has been a past president of the Houston Lawyers Association and current president of the Missouri City & Fort Bend Branch NAACP. He is also an active member of numerous professional organizations, including: Houston Trial Lawyers Association, Texas Trial Lawyers Association, State Bar of Texas, Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Mason, Prince Hall Ever Ready Lodge and 100 Black Men of America. Missouri City is home to Reynolds, his wife, Dr. Jonita Reynolds and their seven-yearold daughter, Lacey. They are active members of Brook Hollow Baptist Church in Houston and civic groups in the Fort Bend County area. To discuss issues or ideas with Reynolds for the upcoming legislative session, contact him at (832) 721-2667 or by email at ron@ brownreynolds.com.

Join the thousands of Fort Bend neighbors who have decided to become “One Among Many.” This November, VOTE as though your very Liberty depends upon it…because it does.

VOTE Conservative! www.fortbendcountyteaparty.com Political ad paid for by the supporters of the Fort Bend Tea Party

Deadline: October 15

OVEMBER

Special Feature To Advertise Call Dean West

281-690-4201

cell 713-899-0643

Dean@fortbendstar.com

Fort Bend Attorneys

Legal Eagles October 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Triumph Hospital raises the bar and adds new faces

riumph Hospital-Sugar Land is raising the bar when it comes to customer service, technology and patient care, according to David Cross, chief executive officer, Triumph Hospital-Southwest in Sugar Land. “We have made a number of changes in the hospital’s leadership, which has elevated the skill set and experience of the management team. We are bringing Triumph to a higher level not only in leadership but also in care for our patients. These changes will continue to benefit our patients and the community as a whole,” Cross said. The new staff members are Sandip Desai, M.D., Director of Pulmonology and Intensive Care; Gregory Burton, M.D. Director of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation; Faisal Khan, M.D., Director of Neurology Services; Viren Shah, M.D., Chief of Staff; Mark Murray M.D. Director of Pharmacy and Therapeutics; Johnson Agu, M.D., Director of Clinical Education and P. K. Shah, M.D., Vice Chief of Staff. The Chief Clinical Officer, Roberta Consolver, who arrived from Hawaii, also joined Triumph in January 2010. Cross is also new to the hospital, taking residence in the CEO’s office in September 2009. In his position, as part of the executive leadership team, he oversees the

Left to Right Back Row David Cross, CEO; Roberta Consolver, Chief Clinical Officer; Dr. Faisal Khan, Director of Neurology; Dr. Sandip Desai, Director of Pulmonology and Intensive Care; Dr. Viren Shah, Chief of Staff; Dr. Pankaj K. Shah, Vice Chief of Staff.

South group of Triumph, which includes Triumph Hospital Southwest, Triumph Hospital Town and Country and Triumph Hospital Central Houston. Cross has over 20 years of healthcare experience as both a clinician and a leader. He recently worked as the CEO/Michigan Area Director for Select Medical Corporation and his clinical leadership roles have included Director of Case Management for Integris Baptist Medical Center and Director of Nursing and Clinical Services for Select Specialty Hospital, both in Oklahoma City. In his previous position as a corporate leader, Cross increased employee satisfac-

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

tion, improved hospital quality and performance, and was very active in fundraising endeavors in the community. Cross’s primary focus and responsibility will be Triumph Hospital Southwest, in Sugar Land. Both Cross and Consolver have been impressed with the manicured landscaping of Sugar Land, the friendly and gracious people and all the amenities. “All of us who are new to Sugar Land have received a warm welcome and it is an honor to serve this community. We are looking forward to a long tenure, becoming more involved in area activities and getting to know our neighbors,” Cross said. “Triumph Hospital is a long term acute care hospital, which is a level of care many people are unfamiliar. We provide specialty care in many areas with state-ofthe art equipment and technology, highly trained and experienced nursing teams and physicians and our patient care is second to none. We are also ranked in the top sector for wound care, respiratory and cardiac care and ICU,” Cross said. Patients are referred to a Triumph Hospital for the continuation of acute medical care due to the severity and complexity of their condition precludes them from being accepted into a rehabilitation hospital or a skilled nursing facility. “From elderly persons suffering from pre-existing conditions that complicate their course of treatment to technologydependent individuals requiring ongoing intensive nursing care, every patient at Triumph is treated with dignity, respect and compassion,” Cross said. Triumph Hospital-Sugar Land has been part of the city’s horizon for the past eight years. The facility is located at 1550 First Colony Blvd near Hwy 6 and has easy access from Memorial Hermann-Sugar Land, Memorial Hermann Southwest, Methodist, Oak Bend, St. Luke’s and others, Cross said.

Money Talks by Tim Stubenrouch / First Community Bank

Where are you in your life? Someone once said that life is a series of lessons and challenges that help us grow. If you are like me you probably feel that you would like to stop growing for just a little while if it would mean that you would have fewer challenges in your daily life! And wherever you are in your life, there are financial matters to consider. Consider the stages of life from infancy, toddler, and preschool to school children, adolescence and young adult, then full adulthood and finally the “mature adult.” As I researched these a little more I found the age spans and realized that I am in full adulthood approaching “mature.” That was encouraging until I read the psychological crises for these stages and found that I am in “stagnation” and approaching “despair.” A major consideration for all of us in order to avoid falling into those psychological

crises is sound financial standing. For the infancy stage, families should consider starting savings early. Continuing this through the toddler and following stages will help to provide for future education needs. Teaching the children in our lives about money is very important as well and should include earning money, saving money, and good spending habits. As children grow they also need good information about credit and how to avoid identity theft and fraud. Young adulthood may bring marriage, the birth or adoption of a child and / or home ownership. And our adult years may have other life events such as divorce, partnering, or the death of a family member. Today’s economy makes the life events of losing a job or starting a new one especially significant, and throughout our adult years we need to be planning for retirement.

All that can be overwhelming. Fortunately there are excellent resources to help you. In 2008 the FDIC published “Money Tips for All Ages” that can be found at www.fdic.gov/consumers/consumer/news/cnspr08/ and www.mymoney. gov/life-events has guides for financial planning for specific life events. It is not always comfortable to think about life events, but being prepared financially can make the reality of our lives more opportunity than challenge. Tim Stubenrouch is a columnist for the Fort Bend Business Journal and is with First Community Bank, N.A., President - Fort Bend, 13135 Dairy Ashford, Suite 250, Sugar Land, TX 77478. He can be reached at 281-242-2262, fax: 281-242-1522, or email at stubenrouch@firstcommunitybank. net. H

Tax Accountants • Auditors Consultants to Business Member: American Institute of Certified Public Accountants

Our professionals proudly serve Fort Bend & the Greater Houston area.

• Taxation • Tax Controversies • Litigation Support

Alan Sandersen

• Audits of Commercial and Governmental entities • Construction Companies

130 Industrial Blvd., Suite 130 Sugar Land, TX 77478

281.242-3232 www.sktx.com

October 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Mom knows best among easy riders By Wayne Chandler

hen Patti Williamson came home from her day job one evening three years ago she told her husband, Wayne, that she wanted to buy a Yamaha motorcycle franchise in Katy. “The hell you say…” was Wayne’s response. But he soon knew that this blonde spitfire partner of some 37 years wasn’t fooling. It was a bold step, where few women have dared to venture. But Patti, for the previous 12 years, had moved from part time to full time business manager for Houston Motor Sports, Inc., a highly successful dealer of some 14 years on FM 1960 in northwest Houston. Her bosses, David Lednicky and Bob Harvey, told her that there was a motor sports dealership available in the Katy area. They offered to be her business partners in this new venture. These two men told her that they weren’t interested in another franchise on their own, but that they had confidence in her. After a while as Patti started showing her business sense they called her “Yama Mama.” Patti took charge. She liked the Katy potential. Patti confidently bought the huge inventory, moved it to a more attractive retail space on I-10 between Fry and Westgreen Roads, in September 2008. “What I didn’t know was that Hurricane Ike was about to hit,” Patti said. While overall damage to the 14,000 square foot showroom and offices was minimal, power knocked out communication for days. But, Patti didn’t miss a lick. She passed around her own cellphone as her associates needed it, and Katy Yamaha did a “checks and cash” business until all facilities were restored. “We’ve experienced a satisfying growth in these two years, ” Patti sighed. “I was confident that I could handle most any business. It didn’t have to be motorcycles.” “I knew that my family and associates would help me, “she said. Wayne soon became

her business partner and their son, Branden, joined too. “They both have contributed greatly,” she said, “as have all of our staff.” Wayne’s business acumen came from 16 years with TxDOT’s Motor Vehicle Division, and operating two successful businesses for the next 16 years. Branden’s business experience came from seven years with Lowe’s Home Improvements in inventory control/ loss prevention, and with Discount Tire as an assistant store manager. The total staff is at 11 now, as sales totaled $3 million this past year. The Williamsons have established the largest single-line “Pro Yamaha” dealership in Texas, with a showroom of more than a hundred vehicles, one of every kind of Yamaha motorcycle, sport bike, sport and utility ATV, and increasingly popular personal watercraft WaveRunner, which is amounting to about 50 per cent of the store’s sales. The Williamsons are proud that it has become a family business. Motorsports has become a family market, too. The family welcomes browsers and only offers comments or answers when the customer asks.

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

“We have families come in where one will want a dirt bike, another may want a fourwheeler, another may want a Waverunner,” Patti said. The Williamsons are improving and developing the parts and accessories business, and offer full service to all bikes, makes and models. Patti is heartened by the special Katy location which she has established, out of a busy downtown environment, out where suburban families can find time for recreational sports. It’s at 20235A Katy Freeway. The store is open Tuesday-Friday, 9:30 to 6:30, and Saturday from 9 to 6. For a detailed check, call 281-944-3190 or go to www. katyyamaha.com. Frank Lombard, Katy Area Economic Development Council vice president, summarized, “Proving again that ‘Mom’ knows best, Mrs. Williamson is a shining example of the type of entrepreneurial leadership that many women in the Katy area are bringing to our business community.” Katy Yamaha is on a good ride because of one brave lady.

Commercial Real Estate by Kolbe Curtice CCIM, CLS

Feeling better about feeling better! Being sick is no fun! Last Christmas I had probably the worst cold that I have had in a decade. Everything hurt. I think I felt a little like the guy on Monday morning after lining up against Mario Williams on Sunday afternoon. I think Mario has sent more than a few opponents to the hot tub and massage table the day after a game. My wife was my “trainer” last Christmas, nursing me back to health with combinations of cold remedies and encouragement. Although I was a terrible patient, she put up with me and brought me back to the land of the living. I can remember my frustration, however, with her “you’re looking better” comments while I still felt like my head was about to explode.

What does this have to do with commercial real estate? The above is the best analogy I can give for what we have been facing while trying to get our financial and real estate markets to recover. There isn’t enough room in the business journal to debate which “medicine” or policy is the most effective to accomplish that. Just as I did when I was sick last year, however, I am beginning to see some encouraging signs. There are literally hundreds of indices for the measurement of economic health. Although many of these show continued cause for caution, like my wife last Christmas, a number of them recently have started saying, “you’re looking better”. Just as when I was sick, however,

they don’t mean a lot when you are still hurting. In the greater Houston area, we face the proposition of losing jobs due to the Continental Airlines merger, the offshore drilling moratorium, and cutbacks at NASA, etc. Just this month a major NASA subcontractor announced that they are vacating their 160,000 SF headquarters building in Clear Lake. In Fort Bend, however, real estate activity this past month has been robust. A 40,000 +/- lease was inked in Sugar Creek with an international shipping company that will relocate positions from their

KOBLE CURTICE... continued on page 58

You see the glass half full.

So do we.

Katy - Cinco Ranch 281.395.0440 Missouri City - Sienna Plantation 281.778.0098 Sugar Land - Sugar Creek 281.275.5111 Sugar Land Town Center 281.275.5151 Richmond Downtown 281.344.0693 Rosenberg - Brazos Town Center 281.341.1100

firstcommunitybank.net

Different. Better. October 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

There’s an exciting raceway in Katy By Wayne Chandler

he competition is fierce, and it can get noisy, as race cars whiz by at speeds difficult to follow. The sleek, precision-built cars may hit speeds of 100 miles per hour, and maneuver sharp up-and-down turns on double oval tracks. The drivers are dead serious. Some of the drivers may be six years old. Some may be 80! The races can happen six nights a week. Race times are 7 p.m. The scene? Slot Cars of Katy at 517 South Mason Road just north of Kingsland Blvd. This venue is one of the very few remaining in the entire Greater Houston area, which once had a dozen or so thriving operations. The most serious of these “drivers” may be P.A. Watson, the 58-year–old owner (with his wife Kathleen) who doesn’t compete against his local enthusi-

asts, but he does compete. In late August he traveled to Tulsa and took second place in a big regional event. He led the entire series of races -- ahead by four laps in the finale-- when his car’s engine konked out. Don’t lament, Watson is one of the best in the world. In 1987 he won the international championships in Toulouse, France, worth $10,000. He won the nationals in 1986,’89,’91 and ’93. Watson hosted the nationals in 2008 at a nearby Mason Road location and came in fourth among some 214 racers from all over the nation. State titles? He’s probably won 25, but who’s counting. While it can be a serious sport for some, it’s mostly just fun and/or a hobby to most slot car racers. Watson has a host of regular enthusiasts, some of which may come several miles for the challenge –“ for the thrill of victory, the agony of defeat.” At a recent Saturday afternoon birthday party, it was obvious that most of the

P.A. Watson owns Slot Cars of Katy

youngsters had never operated the slots, but with 10 minutes or so of practice, some advice from Watson, and a fiveminute practice race, the young drivers were controlling the pace and the quick turns. There was an “official” race—two 5-minute heats. Parents and grandparents helped retrack cars when they crashed. The digital computer screen, which only has been available in the past decade, accurately records every performance. The racer completing the most laps wins. There were shouts of joy, and also some tears from a couple of losers. . .the agony of defeat. Watson encourages youngsters who may often be introduced to slot car racing through such parties or some other special event. Watson has the cars and all of the gear necessary. He has a generous amount of trophies to award the younger participants, too. “Sometimes these kids get hooked on it and make it a good hobby,” Watson said. “That’s what happened to me.” Watson recalls that when he was 10 years old in Pasadena, his aunt took him and her sons to a slot car venue, and young P.A. wanted to play, but his slightly older cousins wanted all the action. But his aunt insisted that her young nephew get a whirl at it. “I caught on to it, and here I am today, nearly 50 years later,” Watson said. continued on page 16

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

Texas Scenic cities recognized Missouri City & Sugar Land among 14 Certification earned for high-quality development requirements

issouri City and Sugar Land have earned bronze and silver certificates, respectively, from the Scenic City Certification Program for community excellence as Texas cities implementing high quality scenic standards for public roadways and public spaces aimed at improving the image of their cities. The Scenic City Certification Program is a project of Scenic Texas. Scenic Texas has identified a direct correlation between the success of a city’s economic development efforts and the visual appearance of its public spaces. The program recognizes Texas cities with strong scenic standards and serves to provide incentives to others for implementing criteria proven to enhance economic development, improve quality of life and foster a sense of place. In a news release from Missouri City, it reports that the program recognized the city’s recent focus on revitalization plans for the Texas Parkway/Cartwright Road Corridors and its emphasis on the removal of litter and graffiti. The scenic program uses over 70 criteria to measure city certifications in 13 categories. Partners in the certification program include the Houston-Galveston Area Council of Governments, Texas Municipal League, Houston Council of Engineering Companies and the American Planning Association—Houston Section. Cities in Texas are eligible to apply for certification, which is effective for five years.

Darron Drago Senior Vice-President

Jeff Samples President

Jay Rogers Chairman and CEO

Scenic Cities 2010 Flower Mound

Gold

Westlake

Gold

Georgetown

Gold

Belton

Gold

Keller

Silver

Sugar Land

Silver

Mesquite

Silver

Granbury

Silver

Missouri City

Bronze

Irving

Bronze

University Park

Bronze

Bastrop

Bronze

Horseshoe Bay

Recognized

South Padre Island

Recognized

Delores Hansen Senior Vice-President

Craig Bunk Senior Vice-President

Tradition of Trust. With more than 40 years of experience, reliability and commitment to the community, IBC Bank’s sustained strength and stability are second to none. Let us show you how you can use our expertise to help your business succeed. Stop by IBC Bank and talk to us, or better yet, call us and we’ll come see you.

713-526-1211 • www.ibc.com MeMber FDIC/InternatIonal banCshares CorporatIon

October 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Betting on an exciting time in Katy continued from page 14 By the time that Watson was 26 he was a regular at a slot car place in Pasadena, and, as the owner retired, Watson bought the entire operation where he kept it for another three years. Then he moved to a location in Baytown for four years, then to Clearlake for three years, and then for 16 years behind Almeda Mall. Some good friends encouraged him to move to Mason Road three years ago. Slot car racing was all the rave nationally in the 1960s. There were more than 3,000 tracks across the country, but the hobby sport became just a fad for many, and today there are fewer than 300 tracks in the U.S. ”Kids today have so many options… they jump from one hobby to another,” Watson noted. Slot car racing has been a subject in some films—Pulp Fiction—with John Travolta. Also, Charles Bronson and

Anthony Hopkins have been in movies involving slot cars. Years ago, Watson was featured on Ray Miller’s Eyes of Texas television show on Houston’s KPRC. Slot cars still holds considerable fascination in Europe and South America, Watson said. Some of the best players are from Brazil. Slot Cars of Katy has two tracks – one 50 fifty and the other 40 feet in length in a 50 by 85 foot area plus, a party room

and showcases with the six-inch stylish cars, accessories and trophies. There’s no admission, but most visitors don’t want to watch, they want to play. The slot cars are purposely-designed for miniature racing. They’re electrically powered. The “driver” holds a pistollike gadget (a controller) and the harder he pulls the faster the car speeds along this eight-lane track, guided by grooves or slots in the track. Some enthusiasts “scratch build,” creating their own mechanisms and bodies from basic parts. Each car only has rear wheels, with tires made from a special rubber. Watson customizes the size and fit on most of his car tires. Slot Cars of Katy is open six days: Tuesday-Friday, noon to 9 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday, 1 to 9. For more information, call P.A. Watson at 281-599-9040. P.A. can tell you anything that you wish to know about slot cars.

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

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

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

Special

1,000

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

ANSWERING OUR PHONES. To us, everyone is important. So we answer our phones in person and never charge customers for a call with a Frost banker. Frankly, we believe that driving a technological stake between people and answers is no recipe for success. Call us on it. f r o s t b a n k . c o m

Business Cards • Full-color on BOTH sides • U.V. coating on BOTH sides

we’re from here

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

Join Riverbend and get in on the Excitement! The Only Members Owned Club in Sugar Land. Membership Benefits

+ tax includes all full-color graphics & printing

832-788-2294

A Championship Golf Course Expanded Luxurious Men’s Locker Room 4 Outdoor Lighted Tennis Courts Olympic Size Swimming Pool New Fitness Facility Social Activities Private and Casual Dining

Riverbend Country Club is a traditional, private, full service Members Owned Country Club located in the heart of Sugar Land, just 25 minutes south of downtown Houston, Texas

For information about membership, please contact Tricia Hawks at 281.269.2526 or Triciarbcc@gmail.com

www.riverbendcountryclub.org

October 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Fort Bend/Katy

COVER STORY

By Nancy V. Mills, APR | Photos by Larry Pullen Photography

Memorial Hermann Southwest sets the standard in laparoscopic surgical procedures

ust as a well engineered race car, capable pit crew and talented driver all contribute to winning races, having state-of-the-art surgical equipment, a knowledgeable surgical team and an experienced surgeon help contribute to successful outcomes for patients who undergo surgery. At Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital, a highly skilled surgical team uses advanced laparoscopic technologies to deliver

a high level of care not usually available outside major medical centers. This progressive technology in the hands of accomplished surgeons and nursing staff has resulted in a depth of experience and a diversity of procedures unmatched in the region. Surgeries that once required several large incisions, or open surgery, are now performed with advanced laparoscopic procedures, often with just a single incision. Todd Wood, M.D., a general surgeon

Urologists Ned Stein, M.D., Steven Maislos, M.D., and Lawrence Baum, M.D., regularly use the da Vinci robotic-assisted technology or advanced laparoscopic, hand-assisted procedures to Bend perform prostate surgery. Fort Business Journal • October 2010

affiliated with Memorial Hermann Southwest, attributes these advancements to the right combination of technology and surgeon experience. “Scopes are smaller and more flexible so surgeons can bend the tip and look around corners for better views,” he says. “The video quality is amazing and provides a better view than even the large incisions used in open surgery. We’re using this technology to improve patient care.” Laparoscopic, or minimally invasive, surgery benefits patients through more rapid recovery, shorter hospital stays and less pain and scarring. The surgical team at Memorial Hermann Southwest has performed more than 10,000 minimally invasive procedures, making the hospital a recognized leader in laparoscopic surgery. In addition to laparoscopic removal of the gallbladder, appendix and adrenal glands, the hospital’s affiliated surgeons have laparoscopically repaired hernias and the valve between the esophagus and stomach. They have also performed laparoscopic surgeries on digestive and urinary organs that some hospitals are unable to perform in a minimally invasive way. Some of these procedures include bowel resection, the partial removal of the pancreas and liver and the complete removal of the spleen and kidney.

Heart & Vascular Institute Southwest Heart & Vascular Institute Southwest

Urologists Kevin Nickell, M.D. and Zvi Schiffman, M.D. have used da Vinci technology to perform robotic prostatectomy for several years. It allows them to perform maneuvers that are impossible with conventional laparoscopic tools and makes bleeding almost nonexistent for patients.

“We wouldn’t dream of doing most procedures any way other than laparoscopically,” says George Peterkin, M.D., a Memorial Hermann Southwestaffiliated general surgeon. He appreciates the hospital’s three dedicated laparoscopic surgery suites with built-in laparoscopic equipment and an operating room team that routinely works together. Acknowledging the fastidiousness of surgeons, Dr. Peterkin said he particularly values the nurses at Memorial Herman Southwest because they know the laparoscopic equipment. “When you work with the same nursing team all the time, it makes a difference.”

Leaders in robotic surgery The synergy of faster computers, improved optics and more experienced surgeons means that complex procedures can be performed

with increased precision and better results for patients. One acclaimed example is the da Vinci® Surgical System, which allows advanced laparoscopic surgery using roboticassisted technology. Memorial Hermann Southwest is the first hospital in southwest Houston to install this remarkable tool and its surgical team has the most experience using it. The da Vinci system integrates high-resolution 3-D imagery and intuitive motion control, which provides a greater range of motion than even the human wrist. As a result, surgeons can perform maneuvers that are simply impossible with conventional laparoscopic tools. Memorial Hermann Southwest-affiliated urologist Kevin Nickell, M.D., says the $1.8 million machine is an investment in quality patient care. “It’s not like the hospital gets paid more to perform robot-assisted rather than traditional incision surgery. This is a quality

service that Memorial Hermann Southwest decided to offer its patients.” Both Dr. Nickell and urologist Steven Maislos, M.D., consider da Vinci their first choice for prostatectomy, the removal of the prostate gland. When the procedure is performed robotically, bleeding is almost nonexistent. Dr. Maislos, a Memorial Hermann Southwest-affiliated physician, says da Vinci has revolutionized prostate surgery. “The robot offers a significant advantage as we’re able to get into tight corners and operate more precisely around delicate structures that control erection and urination. Magnified views and superhuman wrist articulation allow experienced robotic surgeons to perform delicate maneuvers that help to spare vital structures and give patients better quality of life while curing their cancer.” According to Dr. Nickell, the goal for prostate cancer surgery is to cure the patient’s cancer while maintaining good urinary and sexual function. He has seen improved continence in his patients who have undergone robotic prostatectomy, but cautions against having higher expectations of robotic surgery. “Some 60 percent to 70 percent of men are cured of prostate cancer from the surgery itself,” he said. “The vast majority of men will regain urinary control, though it may take a few months. Sexual function is complicated because it depends on the type and location of the cancer and whether or not you can spare one or both nerves.” Both urologists consider the robot an impressive tool but emphasize the surgeon’s experience. “The robot is not a magical tool,” said Dr. Maislos, a fellowship-trained robotic surgeon who has performed more than 200 robotic prostatectomies. “If it is used correctly and the surgeon has significant experience and performs this procedure regularly, it can provide better patient outcomes.” Most men are candidates for robotic prostatectomies unless they have multiple adhesions from previous abdominal surgeries. Some patients require radiation therapy following their surgery. ............................ ..................continued on page 20

October 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Dr. Prestidge attributes his high cure rate to careful technique, as well as established eligibility criteria. To be a good candidate for brachytherapy alone and not as part of combined therapy that adds limited externalbeam radiation, men must have early-stage cancer and less-aggressive cancer cells.

Heartburn treatment now includes surgical options

Radiation oncologist Bradley Prestidge, M.D., holds a vial of tiny pellets used in prostate seed implantation.

Brachytherapy – an alternative to the surgical treatment of prostate cancer

Memorial Hermann Southwest is setting the standard in laparoscopic surgical treatment of heartburn or GERD, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease. GERD occurs when stomach acid or bile leaks backward from the stomach into the esophagus. As the condition worsens, the acid can irritate and inflame the lining of the esophagus, and even lead to esophageal cancer. A procedure known as the Nissen fundoplication aims to recreate the natural angle of the valve connecting the stomach and esophagus to stop the backward flow of stomach fluids. Dr. Wood said this procedure resolves symptoms for approximately 94 percent of patients within one year and allows most to stop taking their acid reflux medication. The newer transoral incisionless fundoplication, or TIF, is performed through an endoscope inserted into the mouth. This procedure reduces the risk of developing a hernia at the incision site and allows patients to more rapidly resume their normal activities.

Advocating an alternative to prostatectomies and external-beam radiation to treat prostate cancer is Bradley Prestidge, M.D., a radiation oncologist affiliated with Memorial Hermann Southwest. He has performed more than 4,500 prostate seed brachytherapy procedures over the past 20 years with a 92 percent cure rate. An international expert in brachytherapy, he has trained hundreds of physicians in the procedure, including surgeons at well-known cancer hospitals. He feels seed implant therapy isn’t always considered because it’s performed by radiation oncologists rather than urologists who perform the diagnostic biopsy. Yet his patients’ experience with brachytherapy shows fewer long-term complications with incontinence and impotence. During prostate seed brachytherapy, miniscule seeds containing carefully prescribed amounts of radiation are strategically implanted into the tumor. The outpatient procedure is conducted by inserting a needle into the patch of skin between the base of the scrotum and the front of the rectum. Scalpels are not used. Dr. Prestidge says patients with early stage prostate cancer have an equal chance of cure Heartburn Hotline 713.456.HBRN regardless of whether they choose laparoscopic Part of the new comprehensive heartburn program at or robotic surgery, external-beam radiation or Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital. One call and the seed implant. you’ll be connected to a physician who can help with He counsels patients to look beyond your specific heartburn issue. the treatment type. “Your second, and Symptoms of Advanced Heartburn maybe more important decision, is where • Laryngitis • Persistent cough you’ll have the procedure performed and by • Difficulty swallowing • Chest pain whom. Treatment results greatly depend on the experience of the team and the doctor performing the procedure.” Depending on the type of isotope Dr. Experience counts Prestidge and his patient select for implantation – iodine, palladium or cesium – delivery of Quality is a core value at Memorial Hermann Southwest, driving the staff to provide the best half the radiation dose can take from as few as possible outcomes for patients. This commitment has lead HealthGrades to rank the hospital’s 10 days to as long as two months. This allows General Surgery department in the top 5 percent of U.S. hospitals for three consecutive years. patients to customize treatment to fit their So if you or a loved one is facing surgery, consider the winning combination offered by lifestyles. Memorial Hermann Southwest – expert affiliated surgeons who have performed more than “The type of isotope is not as important 10,000 minimally invasive procedures and a technologically advanced hospital staffed with highly as performing the implant properly,” he said. skilled surgical and radiologic oncology teams.

Reach local buyers with Search Engine Marketing available from your Local Newspaper!!! plus 26 other search engines If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re thinking about getting more business from local online searches, call the Fort Bend Star. We are the local marketing experts - online as well as in print. Since LOCAL searches on the top national search engines out number searches in yellow page directories, you need your business to get your share of these LOCAL business category searches.

281-690-4221

Email: Michael@FortBendStar.com October 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Fort Bend Business Journal

Keeping track: Celebrating rail in Fort Bend County

Rosenberg Railroad Museum sets October 23 for gala

he Rosenberg Railroad Museum – a museum for all of Fort Bend County, will host its annual fundraising gala from 6:30- 10:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 23 at the Safari Texas Ranch in Richmond. The Honorable Leonard Scarcella, Mayor of Stafford, has hopped aboard as Honorary Chair for the event, “Celebrating Rail in Fort Bend County,” and will be the keynote speaker. Stafford businessman and private rail car owner Patrick Henry will be serving as the evening’s Master of Ceremonies as well as donating a luncheon for 10 onboard his private rail cars. Museum board member and author of Railroads of Fort Bend County Jim Vollmar will be in attendance and proceeds of his book sales will benefit the museum. Over the past eight years the Rosenberg Railroad Museum has grown from a dream into a major tourist attraction for Fort Bend County. Thousands of guests visit the museum each year from all over the nation. Programs and services

are continually being added and the museum has five certified Operation Lifesaver presenters who work in cooperation with Texas Operation Lifesaver, a program that teaches railroad Leonard Scarcella safety to citizens of the Gulf Coast region. To coincide with the 100th year anniversary of Boy Scouting in America, the museum is instituting two new merit badge programs: the Railroad Merit Badge Patrick Henry and the Heritage Signaler Merit Badge. The museum also added “Tot Spot,” a hands-on learning center and children’s library that was designed and constructed by a local Eagle Scout. Museum Executive

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

Director Jerry Hoover is committed to keeping the museum’s exhibits and programs growing. Rail has always been a critical component of Fort Bend County. The first 20-mile rail trip in Texas occurred in 1853 when a train trip ran from Harrisburg in Harris County to Stafford’s Point in Fort Bend County. Today, freight rail operations are prominent in Fort Bend County especially down the U.S. 90A Corridor. There are also significant expansion plans by Union Pacific Railroad and other freight rail carriers to increase their activities within the county. “The Rosenberg Railroad Museum deserves significant commendation for keeping the focus on rail - both freight and passenger – in our county,” said Mayor Scarcella. Fort Bend residents and businesses are encouraged to attend the gala or make a donation. The museum is a private nonprofit institution with 501(c)(3) status. All donations are tax deductible. Tickets and sponsorship information are available at www.rosenbergRRmuseum.org/gala.

Recession proof giving helps to revive the economy By guest writer Sonya Packer

he state of the American economy has sent a wave of uncertainty across our nation. To some degree, everyone has been affected. Jobs have been lost, and salaries have been cut. The individuals lucky enough to retain employment live with a nagging fear that at any moment they too could be downsized. As a result we are all cutting our budgets and tightening our purse strings. Perhaps the most affected are the local charities and churches. Ironically, it is times like these when more and more people are seeking their services, while the charitable contributions necessary to fund these organizations is declining. Many factors are to blame for this

decline; however, the economy is in fact the primary culprit. One local church reports a drop in the level of giving by 14 percent when compared to a year ago, yet attendance is up nearly 10 percent. Debbie Smith, the Director of Business Services for Second Mile Mission, describes a change in the clientele currently seeking assistance - previous contributors are now the very ones in need. Smith admits, “Donations have gone down but we are seeing bigger signs of God working.” While we are all feeling some degree of financial strain, we cannot disregard our civic responsibilities. Begin by focusing your attention on the needs of your local community. Volunteer your time Giving one or two hours of your time assisting with administrative tasks, sorting

donated items, or restocking pantry shelves can really make a difference to an organization. Donate your unused items Despite financial hardships most of us still possess an excess of “stuff” that we do not need. Do a little spring (summer, fall, or winter) cleaning and donate what you do not need to a local charity. They will benefit from your donation and you will benefit by eliminating clutter. Shop thrift stores Charity run thrift stores are a great resource when trying to pinch pennies. You will be supporting local charities and at the same time saving money. Adversity is more easily met when we unite, and by extending a helping hand we create stronger more resilient communities.

IS YOUR BANK A FIVE STAR RATED BANK? Are you looking for CONFIDENCE and REASSURANCE in your Bank? HCB is the Bank you can TRUST!

Come meet our experienced team! Brian Ellis Greatwood

Jeff Smith Stafford

Banking Officer - HCB 5 Years of Experience

iversa

President - HCB 33 Years of Experience

Vice Chairman / COO - HCB 39 Years of Experience

KC Curtis Greatwood

Executive Vice President - HCB 24 Years of Experience

Houston Community Bank, N.A. 19855 Southwest Freeway Ste 100

Claude Leatherwood Greatwood

Greatwood Lakes Office Building Sugar Land Texas 77479 281.343.7700

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

Texas 77067 281.537.7200

1515 FM 1960 Bypass East Humble Texas 77338 281.540.1414

22240 Farris Green Porter Texas 77365 281.540.1414

houstoncommunitybank.com

Other Locations “Coming Soon” October 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Breast Cancer Awareness

Family Practice of Fort Bend welcomes Dr. Galloway Welcome home Doc!

ighlands and Colony Bend Elementary, First Colony Middle School, and Clements High School all

Dr. Galloway with patient.

had a young student by the name of Brent Galloway walk their halls. Brent could even be found on a Friday or Saturday night during his high school football season wearing the #62 Rangers jersey. The strong education and experiences that he received here in the Fort Bend county area prepared him to leave home after graduation from Austin College in Sherman, Texas and then continue on to U.T. Medical School at San Antonio. Today, after completing his medical residency in Sugar Land, he has planted roots in his home town and is joining Family Practice of Fort Bend as a practicing physician. Dr. Galloway joins the office with Dr. Robert McClendon where there is a strong tradition of caring for families.

His passions are pediatrics and sports medicine. Dr. Galloway said, “I have achieved a childhood dream to graduate from medical school and be able to practice in my home town.” Dr. Galloway and his wife Jacqueline attend Quail Valley Church and are enjoying raising their two young children, Ethanael, 17 months and Atalie, 3 months right here in Sugar Land where they know from experience that life is sweet! You can be seen at your convenience: whether it’s before work, during lunch, after school, or after work. Please call for more details. To contact Dr. Galloway, please call Family Practice of Fort Bend at 281-2653456. His office address is 14825 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land.

FAMILY PRACTICE WELCOMES OUR NEW “HOME TOWN” BRENT GALLOWAY, M.D. Physicals • High School Athletic Injuries • Annual & Comprehensive Examinations • Weight Loss • Diabetes • Hypertension • Flu Shots • General CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION

Family Practice of Fort Bend

NEW

“Treating you like family, not a number”

Extended Hours: You can now be seen before you go to work or

school, during lunch, or after work or school. Call for an appointment

Easily accessible free parking • No waiting for appointments “Coming to their office felt like home. Even though I felt bad, I was very comfortable. The staff was warm and friendly and the doctors were down to earth” - Brenda S.

Dr. Brent Galloway

281-265-3456

14825 Southwest Freeway 24

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

Breast Cancer Awareness

Tracking your PSA: Be proactive MD Anderson recommends men monitor PSA scores to trends

xperts at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Katy advise men to keep a record of their prostate specific antigen (PSA) test results to help determine if they are at increased risk for prostate

cancer. “Recent reports have debated the usefulness of the PSA test, but men should not write off this exam,” says John W. Davis, M.D., assistant professor in MD Anderson’s Department of Urology. “It’s still an effective way to track trends in your prostate over time,” he says. Doing this increases the chances that your doctor will find prostate cancer as early as possible, when it’s most successfully treated.”

Most men age 50+ should get tested The prostate specific antigen, or PSA, test is a simple blood test. It measures the amount of PSA in a man’s bloodstream. PSA is a protein produced by the cells of the prostate gland. “Starting at age 40, all men should talk to their doctor about the PSA test,” Davis said. Recent guidelines by the American Cancer Society stress that men should talk to a doctor before getting tested. A doctor can explain the possible benefits and risks of prostate cancer screening and treatment. MD Anderson recommends that men age 50 and older, with no family history of prostate cancer, get a prostate cancer screening exam every year. African-American men and men with a family history of prostate cancer should begin annual screening exams at age 45. Both a digital rectal exam and a PSA blood test should be performed.

Sugar Land Medical Associates

Quality healthcare for the entire family

s the premier healthcare service providers in the Sugar Land area, we would like to take the liberty of introducing our healthcare practice to you. At Sugar land Medical Associates, we focus on preventive medicine and health maintenance by providing wellness exams, routine and sports physicals, and many more services. We help our patients share in the responsibility of exercising good health practices for themselves and their families. Our healthcare practice offers “same-day” appointments with 24-hour coverage in case of emergency--and easy referrals to other physicians, as needed. Our highly experienced physician’s have been exclusively serving our community for well over 30 years and we pride ourselves on an extremely friendly and service-oriented bilingual (Languages spoken - English, Spanish, Malayalam) staff with over 43+ combined years of experience. We provide medical care for most primary care conditions including, but not limited to, heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disease, etc. - including: Our facility is uniquely designed for all your diagnostic testing since lab services are provided in our office. Our highly skilled staff, combined with the latest technology and equipment, helps Alan Reichman, MD ensure the most accurate results on lab results. We accept most major insurance coverage providers. Rest assured we strive to assure the same high standards of quality, technical skills and customer service. Please feel free to contact us at (281) 5652140 or visit our website at www.sugarlandmedicalassociates.com for more information on your Abraham Peringol, MD medical needs.

Cancer Awareness & Prevention Month All people deserve a fighting chance to live a healthy, productive life. Don’t let cancer catch you unaware…

Men

There’s more to a man’s cancer check-up than just a prostate exam. Get the facts about some of the common cancers that affect men, and learn what you can do to lower your risk. Start making your own plan of action to help prevent or detect cancer, come by our SMA office or call us to see how we can help!

Women

Mammograms and Pap tests are already part of many women’s regular health checks. But some common women’s cancers are much harder to detect. Learn what symptoms to watch out for & what steps you can take to protect yourself. Call us today to set up your individual consultation, and let us care for you!

Sugar Land Medical Associates 14815 Southwest Freeway • Sugar Land, Texas 77478 P: (281) 565-2140 • F: (281) 565-2174 www.sugarlandmedicalassociates.com October 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Breast Cancer Awareness

Expertise & technology sets Methodist Breast Center apart “We take a very active role in patient care,” says Dr. Phillips. “We spend a good deal of time talking with – and listening to – our patients, because it helps them understand not only the tests we are performing, but also the options of care that are available to them if necessary.” “We take a lead role in working with the patient’s referring physician should there be a need for additional testing or diagnosis. This level of care and coordination means that a patient can undergo a mammogram and, if necessary, an ultrasound or MRI often on the same day, pending insurance approval.”

A special thank you to the Fort Bend Junior Service League members who are the faces of our Women’s Health Campaign.

ethodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Breast Center offers women a life-saving difference. With renowned breast radiologists, the latest in technology and a patient-centric focus on personal care and communication, the Breast Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is a valuable community resource that is unmatched in Fort Bend County. Choose wisely At the Breast Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, a multi-disciplinary, highly skilled team of breast care specialists provides the most comprehensive and compassionate diagnostic and therapeutic service possible, all in one comfortable, convenient setting. This means that women undergoing an annual screening can have confidence that Methodist breast radiologists – devoted fulltime to breast imaging – have the expertise to properly evaluate their results. And for those women who need further testing and follow-up, there is comfort in knowing that their care will be provided quickly, conveniently and most importantly, effectively – with a focus on communication and emotional support.

Expertise makes the difference At many other facilities, staff radiologists are responsible for everything from mammograms to broken bones. But not at the Breast Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. Dr. Stephen Phillips and Dr. Correna Terrell – world-class breast imaging specialists – are devoted full-time to breast care. These two physicians have extensive experience in breast imaging and they share a patientcentric, communications-based approach to their care. Dr. Phillips joined Methodist Sugar Land Hospital from the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. He is board-certified in diagnostic radiology and fellowship trained in breast imaging and intervention. He is a Fellow in the American College of Radiology and has a long history of teaching, researching and writing for medical journals on breast radiology. Dr. Terrell is board-certified in diagnostic radiology. She served a four-year residency at Cleveland Clinic in diagnostic radiology and breast imaging and was chief of breast imaging at Wilford Hall Medical Center in San Antonio, the U.S. Air Force’s largest medical facility.

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

Technology plays a key role In addition to top-quality physicians, the Breast Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital also employs the most sophisticated technology, including: • Digital mammography • Breast MRI • Diagnostic ultrasound • MRI-guided biopsy • Ultrasound biopsy • Stereotactic biopsy When there is cancer In the event of a cancer diagnosis, patients have direct access to Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Cancer Center. Methodist Sugar Land Cancer Center provides a wide range of treatment options, including high-dose radiation (HDR) brachytherapy, which reduces the time needed for treatment to five days rather than six weeks. In addition, patients have access to skilled breast surgeons, oncologists and reconstructive surgeons on staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, who work closely with the breast care team to ensure continuity of care. Find out more Your annual mammogram is an important screening tool. And it does make a difference where you have it done. To learn more about the Breast Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, or to schedule an appointment, call 281-242PINK (7465).

Breast Cancer Awareness

Making Cancer History® in Sugar Land The Woodlands

Katy Bellaire Sugar Land

Texas Medical Center Bay Area

• • • •

Chemotherapy Radiation Surgery Lab and Pharmacy

On the Campus of St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital 281.566.1800 • 877.293.8127 (toll free) • mdanderson.org/sugarland

October 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance Ribbon Cuttings Longhorn Construction Services (25635 Southwest Freeway, Rosenberg): From left: Teresa Nolasco, First Community Bank; Robert Bookout, Robert Bookout & Associates; Georgia Flynn, Avant-Garde Solutions, Inc.; Alicia Casias, Alicia Casias Agency; Brian Ellis, Houston Community Bank; Lisa Matthews, ServPro; Belinda Suarez, Alicia Casias Agency; Andi Wallis, Texana Center; Rocky Lane, Lane Real Estate; Sollie Davis, First Victoria Bank; Terrance Martin, Longhorn Construction Services; Mayor Joe Gurecky, City of Rosenberg; Matt Fielder, Rosenberg Development Corp.; Ryan Taylor, Financial Advisor; Linda Richard, Prudential; Katie Higgins, New York Life; Tom Wilson, Reading Road Storage; Ricardo Aguilar, Lenny’s Sub Shop; Mia Monroe, Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance, and Cathy Pitts, ANCO-McDonald Waterworks.

Frank Burdick – Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. (2277 Plaza Drive, Suite 650, Sugar Land): From left: Terry Crockett, Houston Community Bank; Heidi McCaulley, Liberty Mutual; Rocky Lane, Lane Real Estate; Frank Burdick, Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc.; George Boyum, American PromoPrint; Gail Parker, Chamber President/CEO; Dora Moore, Moore Admin Services; Linda Richard, Prudential; Tom Wilson, Reading Road Storage; Judy LaLonde, American PromoPrint; Mia Monroe, Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance.

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

Richmond Executive Offices (907 Morton Street, Richmond): From left: Katie Higgins, New York Life; Tom Wilson, Reading Road Storage; George Boyum, American PromoPrint; Rocky Lane, Lane Real Estate; Judy LaLonde, American PromoPrint; Cathy Pitts, ANCO-McDonald Waterworks; Brian Kennedy, Richmond Executive Offices; Johanna Compean, Compean Funeral Directors; Ashley Kennedy, Richmond Executive Offices; Mike McCroskey, First General Services of Fort Bend; Lisa Matthews, ServPro; Ginger Dudjak, Richmond Executive Offices; Dallas Warren; Scott Dudjak, Richmond Executive Offices; Brian Ellis, Houston Community Bank; Georgia Flynn, Avant-Garde Solutions, Inc.; Dora Moore, Moore Admin Services; Charlie Braun, bizINTOUCH; Kevin Patton, State Farm; Ricardo Aguilar, Lenny’s Sub Shop; Robert Bookout, Robert Bookout & Associates; Teresa Nolasco, First Community Bank; Manny Reyes, Houston Federal Credit Union, and Alicia Davis, Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance.

ATULATION R G N S! O Josh Nava C

Josh Nava, a senior at Foster High School in the Lamar CISD, receives a $1,000 check from Texas Direct Auto Director of Business Development Jessica DeMarr. Nava was selected as part of Texas Direct Auto’s commitment to educational excellence through the “Scholarship Star” program. Application details are listed below.

1,000

SCHOLARSHIP! Find complete details and forms at

www.fortbendstar.com/scholarshipstar.doc

October 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

National Night Out in Fort Bend Public safety & city officials to visit neighborhoods By Elsa Maxey

he 27th annual National Night Out (NNO) involves thousands of communities and is an event sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch as a crime and drug prevention event. NNO’s official observance in Texas is on Oct. 5. It’s the state’s big party against crime! NNO is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support and participation in crime efforts, strengthen neighborhood spirit and police community relations, and send the message that your neighborhood is a safe place to live. Unless otherwise noted, the NNO events throughout Fort Bend County will be held on Tues., Oct. 5 from 6 – 9 p.m. Stafford – Good neighbors get together Stafford will have a mix of registered and impromptu parties for National Night Out. The Mayor, city council members, and representatives of the fire and police departments will make it a point to stop by all planned activities. For more information, call Stafford PD Sgt. Dustin Claybourne, 281-261-3950. Sugar Land – Lights Up Neighborhoods throughout Sugar Land join forces to ‘Light Up Sugar Land’ by turning on their outside lights and joining thousands of communities for the annual crime and drug prevention event. Neighborhoods, blocks or streets will register parties, and police officers, firefighters, the mayor, city council members and other city officials will visit as many parties as possible. For more information, contact Crime Prevention Officer Harris Johnston of the SLPD at 281-275-2580.

Meadows Place – Solidifies Partnership 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Residents having parties can advise the police department about when, where and what time they will take place. City officials, the Mayor, City Council and public safety personnel will be going out to solidify their partnership with residents during this important crime prevention event. For more information, call Meadows Place PD Officer Kelly Davis, 281-983-2900. Missouri City - Hosts 2 kick-offs & NNO event Tues., Oct. 5, 6 pm – 9 pm Missouri City police and fire departments will be at two locations on Sat., Oct. 2, to kick-off the NNO observance. The new pre-NNO event feature will be at the Target parking lot on Highway 6 at Murphy Road from 4 - 6 p.m., and at the Texas Parkway Shopping Center next to Wells Fargo from 7 p.m. to dusk. Target, which sponsors the event, also will have team members on-hand to meet with residents and provide refreshments. Area law enforcement officers and firefighters will join with city officials. For more information and to register NNO parties, call MCPD Community Liaison Officer Dan Flagg, 281403-8705. Katy – Food, Fun & Fellowship 5:30- 8:30 p.m. The Katy Police Department will host its NNO event at Katy City Park. The community and public safety partnership will be about fun, food, and fellowship. For more information, call Katy PD Sgt. Jack Feilds, 281- 391-4848.

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

Richmond – Events at all police beats 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. The Richmond Police Department will be hosting 11 events, one at each police beat. The main event will be at the Wal-Mart parking lot on 5330 FM1640, from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. It’s being billed as a NNO commercial event with the participation of retailers in the area. There will be food, drinks, a DJ, and all kinds of giveaways. For more information, contact Richmond PD Master Sgt. Lowell Neinast, 281-342-2849. Rosenberg – Businesses & citizens together 7 p.m. until dark Businesses and residents will be part of this NNO event. This is an opportunity for mingling among business community partners, residents and public safety police and fire department officials. There will be a business merchants event at Brazos Town Center at the Target parking lot. Individuals may call to register their block parties events. Contact Assistant Police Chief Dallis Warren, 832595-3710. Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office The Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office is participating in the statewide crime prevention effort to encourage community members and the business community to celebrate Texas National Night Out. This will be a “meet and greet” opportunity for local law enforcement personnel and community members to talk about concerns for law enforcement and community partnerships. Sheriff’s deputies will visit residents in the unincorporated areas of Fort Bend County. For more information, contact Deputy Gerard Argao, Crime Prevention Unit, 281-238-1536 to schedule a visit.

HAVE YOUR OWN

WEBSITE WITHOUT SPENDING A FORTUNE!

• A CUSTOM WEBSITE ADDRESS

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

• A TOLL-FREE NUMBER

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

• ACCESS TO SITE STATISTICS

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

for you to make quick and easy changes to your site whenever you want... and as often as you want

• CUSTOM EMAIL ADDRESSES

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

Brought to you by your local community newspaper

• NEW AND IMPROVED DESIGNS

with lots of great features (look inside for details) • SEARCH ENGINE OPTIMIZATION

helps in delivering traffic to your site with site enhancement efforts

281-690-4221

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

• WEEKLY AD

• WEBSITE

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

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

• VIDEOS

• COUPONS

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

• PHOTOS

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

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

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

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

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

• CALL TRACKING Track and quantify your calls! We will assign a phone number that will forward calls to your business while capturing the info on the call. Reports can be generated to tell you how many people responded to your print and/or online ads. You will be able to see the numbers of the callers, the duration of each call, and even listen to every single call if you wish (to monitor your own customer service internally). All at no additional cost! This feature is easily worth $50-$60/month all by itself, but it is included in the price of your Power Site!

ALL THIS! AT AN AFFORDABLE

per week

Brought to you by your local community newspaper

281-690-4221

WE GIVE YOU THE

POWER TO BUILD YOUR OWN BUSINESS!

HOW MANY OF THESE GREAT FEATURES WILL YOU USE TO HELP GROW YOUR BUSINESS? • Your “OWN” Unique Multi-Page Website & Email Address • Logo, Address, City, State, Phone Numbers, Business Hours • 24/7 Administrative Access To Make Changes • 10 Custom Email Addresses

ORDER A POWER SITE NOW, AND YOUR PROFESSIONAL DESIGN AND SITE SETUP IS INCLUDED IN THE LOW PRICE!

281-690-4221

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

NFL player rewards Sugar Land scholars

By Dori Wind

his is the second year the As One Foundation rewarded local scholars for their civic as well as academic achievements. The foundation was created in 2007 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization by Devard Darling and his family to make a difference in the lives of others. This year 10 Sugar Land students from local high schools received $1,000 checks each to help defray college costs this year. Recently, the foundation hosted a luncheon at the Marriott Hotel in Sugar Land Town Square to recognize the scholarship recipients and provide information about the charity. Devard presented checks to each student individually and congratulated them on their wonderful accomplishments. The students were a diversified group with varied goals, including the study of medicine, music, business, engineering, theology, psychology and education. Each student spoke about how the money would assist them in their life plans and thanked Devard for returning home to Sugar Land to give back to the community. Darling established the foundation in memory of his identical twin brother, Devaughn Darling, who was an excellent student in the classroom, an exceptional football player on the field, and a person of great character. Through its works, Devard is determined to change the world by giving underprivileged youth more opportunities through athletic endeavors, educational programming, and spiritual enrichment. The vision of the foundation is to support and enhance youth development by providing youth-centered activities and opportunities to develop character, values, sportsmanship, responsibility and positive relationships through a foundation that is supported and valued both nationally and internationally. The foundation celebrates the life of the twins. Until their actual birth, the doctor heard only one heartbeat. The logo of the foundation shows two hearts locked together as one. Born in the Bahamas, the twins watched American football on television, scrimmaged with neighborhood children and dreamed about the day they would play for the NFL. In addition to fostering educational objectives, the foundation also holds the Devard and Devaughn Football Camps for youth in the Bahamas during the summer. When the twins were 12 years old, their parents moved to Texas and they began their football careers in middle school. They played at Austin High School in Sugar Land and

then received scholarships to play for Florida State University. While at FSU, tragedy struck when Devaughn collapsed and subsequently died from football-related complications. Controversy swirled around his death when the FSU coaches said his demise was related to sickle-cell anemia, but the official death certificate said it was overexertion from excessive, exhaustive workouts. Devard explained: “Losing my brother was devastating. We had been inseparable until the day he died. I lost half of myself that day.” To make matters worse, Devard was discouraged from playing football at FSU because the school was afraid he might also have medical problems. Devard knew he was healthy and that now, more than ever, he was determined to get to the NFL. He transferred to Washington State and continued playing football. Even though he was an excellent player, medical rumors continued to plague him. Would the NFL draft him or pass him over? Finally, in a third round of the 2004 NFL draft, he was chosen to play for the Baltimore Ravens. He has played wide-receiver at Baltimore for four years (2004-2007); Kansas City for two years (2008-2009); and is currently signed with the Omaha Nighthawks. As Devard’s dream to play professional football came to fruition, he took his brother with him in spirit and soul. He taped a picture of Devaughn, over his heart, underneath his football padding for every game. As One is an acronym for Athletics, Spirituality, Opportunity Need Education. Funding for the charity includes donations from the Darling family, NFL charities and numerous individual contributors. For more information about this philanthropic organization, to obtain scholarship applications, or to make a tax deductible donation, contact Executive Director Tomia Austin by phoning 832-308-9984, emailing Tomia@ AsOneFoundation.org or visiting the website at www.AsOneFoundation.org. In addition to contributing online through the website, donations can be mailed to 6725 S. Fry Rd., Ste. 700#296, Katy, TX 77494.

October 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

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:_________________________________________________________________

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

cut here

Upcoming Chamber Events

10 EVENTS Sept.25-Oct.27

THE GRAND SOIREE

Indulge in jewelry, dining, shopping, art & parties!! EVENT!

FF KICK OCouture for the Cause

Kathy Womack, artist . kwomack.com

benefiting American Cancer Society Sienna Plantation Resort Lagoon Sat., Sept. 25 l 8pm l $100

Internationally Renowned 3D Chalk Artist: Tracy Lee Stum in Riverstone Oct. 6-8 l Watch Her Work l $5 Oct. 9-17 l View Masterpiece l $5

THE GRAND SOIREE a Collection of Stylish Events

Join us for the hottest new annual event

to hit Houston! Showcased in Fort Bend and the surrounding cities, The Grand Soiree is all about style, and will be your new favorite “go to” place for what’s happening in the home, fashion and jewelry industries. Many events are limited attendance—tickets will sell quickly!

TheGrandSoiree.com

. KiEscape ck-off Eventto Sept. 25th Treasure Island ‘Couture for the Cause’ benefiting American Cancer Society at the Sienna Plantation Resort Lagoon

Sponsored by:

TheGrandSoiree.com

Artful Living with Neiman Marcus in Riverstone special guest Tracy Lee Stum Fri., Oct. 8 l 7pm l $75

Fort Bend Goes to the Fall Design Market

Houston Design Center Wed., Oct. 13 l 9:30am-1:30pm Bus Tours l $40

Vineyard Style

Lunch at the Vineyard of the Square Fri., Oct. 15 l 11:30am-1:30pm l $40

International Risotto Festival Houston Design Center Sun., Oct. 17 l 2-6pm l $65

Art Gallery Showing with Kathy Womack

in Riverstone Mon., Oct. 18 l 4-6pm l $15

Women & Wine art dinner with Kathy Womack

Aura Restaurant Mon., Oct. 18 l 6:30pm l $75

Fire & Ice

Post Oak Grill—Sugar Land Thurs., Oct. 21 l 6:30pm l $150

Mix It Up at the M Lounge

Bartender’s Challenge Wed., Oct. 27 l 6:30pm l $40

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

www.FortBendChamber.com

Fort Bend Chamber Membership

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

Welcome New Members ADP Total Source

Hector Silva, District Manager 13141 NW Freeway Houston, TX 77040 713-851-1052 Human Resource Services

AT&T / Missouri City Valeria Montgomery, Store Manager 6215 Hwy 6 Missouri City, TX 77459 281.403.1883

Atrac Solutions

Charlie Smith, Owner 713-208-0234 www.atracsolutions.com Software

Azuma on the Lake

Ryan Snyder, General Manager 15830 SW Freeway, Suite 100 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-313-0518 Restaurants

The Caring Circle Adult Daycare Center Artencia Raffington, Owner 869 Dulles Ave. suite D Stafford, TX 77477 281-499-9922 Adult Day Center

CodeMark Productions, LLC Mark Garay, CEO PO Box 17864 Sugar Land, TX 77496 832-693-3261 Advertising Services

Lippke Cartwright & Roberts Inc.

Scott Maham, Sr. Project Manager 7322 Southwest Freeway, Suite 1717 Houston, TX 77074 713-800-5309 Engineering, Civil

Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ambrosio & Menon, LLP Usha Menon, Partner 10260 Westheimer Rd, ste 465 Houston, TX 77042 713-975-0800 Attorney(s) at Law

Dorf Ketal Chemicals Specialty Catalyst, LLC Nigel Dias 3727 Greenbriar, #114 Stafford, TX 77477 281-243-4487 Chemical Company

Fantastic Sams

Yanira Orellana, Owner 5614 W. Grand Parkway S., Suite 105 Richmond, TX 77406 281-394-0530 Salons, Hair

PPG Industries

Deron Patterson, Sales Development Manager 1007 Oakland CT Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-841 0829

S & G Firearms, LLC

Mario Gehret, Owner 3219 Greenridge Dr Missouri City, TX 77459 713-364-4867 Retail

Skanska U.S.A.

Allan Williams, Vice President 1776 Yorktown St., Suite 690 Houston, TX 77056 713-401-5200 Commercial Construction

www.FortBendChamber.com 38

Fort Bend Business Journal â&#x20AC;˘ October 2010

Welcome New Members Spring ER

Kia Deville, Manager of Business Development 2600 Cordes Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-269-6800 Health Care

Sugar Land Trading Co. LLC Travel Leaders N K Shah, Owner 647 Doscher Lane Sugar Land, TX 77479 713-445-6550 Export & Import

Haifa Catarineau, Owner 4759 Sweetwater blvd Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-277-5999 Travel Agencies

Staples Store

Linda Connlley, Marketing Dir 14404 Hillcroft #100 Houston, TX 77085 508-253-4113 Office Products

Ron Reynolds Monday, October 11, 2010 Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd - Sugar Land 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Individual Reservation $15

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

For membership information, contact: Jan-Michael Jenkins - 281-491-0218 www.FortBendChamber.com October 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Fort Bend Business Journal

We Believe in You, Thanks for Believing in US! 1 Year Grace School Shannon Woodruff, 713-782-4421 Facelogic Drew Fenton, 281-242-3442

Richmond Bone & Joint Clinic, P.A. Cheryl Bertrand, 281-344-1715

Dorf Ketal Chemicals, LLC Nigel Dias, 281-491-3700

MECO Wayne Switzer, 281-276-7600

Aveda Concept Salon Eben & Day Spa Dario G. Beistegui, 281-980-5160

Airgenerate Rick Pal, 713-574-6729

State of Texas, District 28 State Representative John Zerwas, 281-346-1314

Staples Dave Leach, 713-777-0614

Michael Rose, CPA, P.C. Michael Rose, 281-403-0730

2 Years Lina T. Ramey & Assoc. Lina Ramey, 713-972-0200

Caldwell Companies Todd Johnson, 713-690-0000

Cornerstone Christian Academy Rachel Matthys, 281-980-0842 FileControl Partners, Ltd. Nash Dhanani, 713-830-9553 Brazos Valley Schools Credit Union Pat Wlecyk, 281-342-8245 Brazos Valley Schools Credit Union Anna Warren, 281-238-9336 Hilton Garden Inn Houston/Sugar Land Lailani Argao, 281-491-7777

7 Years Second Mile Mission Center Sarah White, 281-261-9199 Allen Boone Humphries Robinson LLP Joe B. Allen, 713-860-6402

Verizon Wireless Jayson Camacho, 281-313-6500

Panera Bread Ryan Cerret, 281-242-7323 (24-BREAD)

Fort Bend Cares Jill Curtis, 832-392-1983

Binkley & Barfield Engineers, Inc Brett Binkley, 713-869-3433

Milestone Members 5 Years

Whitney National Bank Elizabeth Jones, 713-951-6170

First Community Bank Sugar Creek

Tim Stubenrouch, 281-242-2255

8 Years Triumph Hospital-Southwest Michele Dionne, 281-275-6001 Hooters David Shetsky, 281-242-9464 9 Years Texans Insurance & Financial Group, Inc. Basil Housewright, 281-277-7800

Sterling Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Sterling L. Carter, 281-240-3140

Traffic Engineers, Inc.

3 Years Crossbridge Church Chuck Land, 281-313-8300

The Reserve at River Park West

Federal Maintenance Services, Inc.

Carol Bridges, 281-232-3680

Tim Garcia, 281-498-0588

Chili’s Bar & Grill

City of Missouri City

Billy Merchant, 281-499-0227

Frank Simpson, 281-403-8500

6 Years Firethorne Wayne Meyer, 281-395-1440

The Terrace at First Colony

Sugar Cycles Kyle Davenport, 281-261-2900 Global Geophysical Services, Inc. Charles Gregston, 713-972-9200 4 Years LaBarge Inc. Liz Jordan, 281-207-1357 H. Bradley Whatley, PC Brad Whatley, 281-494-8200

Rachel Carleton, 713-270-8145

Lone Star Medical Products, Inc. Marc Gelnett, 281-340-6010 My Flooring AMERICA John Collins, 281-208-4949

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

Milestone Members 10 Years

Todd Werthman, 281-903-2000 11 Years Gomez & Company Benjamin Gomez, 713-666-5900

We Believe in You, Thanks for Believing in US! 11 Years The Grand Parkway Association David Gornet, 713-572-1731 Huitt-Zollars, Inc. Gregory R. Wine, 281-496-0066 12 Years Chief RV & Boat Storage Patti Cooper, 281-575-8555 Titanium Engineers, Inc. Mitchell Dziekonski, 281-265-2910 Sugar Land Rotary Raleigh Bailes, 281-499-2925 Fairfield Industries Incorporated Debera Fontenot, 281-275-7814 Denny’s Raymond G. Sewell, 281-208-2231 13 Years Early, McClintic & McMillan, LLP Richard Early, 281-491-5260 AAA Texas, LLC Bill Clifford, 713-284-6522 Williams Trace Baptist Church Phil Lineberger, 281-980-4431 14 Years PerryLee Home Health Care Services, Inc. Marion Tresvant, 281-491-2200 HDR / Claunch & Miller, Inc. James Andrews, 713-622-9264 Brazos Valley Schools Credit Union Lu Beth Cloudt, 281-980-1850

Milestone Members 15 Years

East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry, Inc. Vickie Coates, 281-261-4902

First Colony Mall

Donna Molho, 281-265-6123

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

First General Services of Fort Bend

Costello, Inc. Stephen Costello, 713-783-7788

Michael McCroskey, 281-9331244

University of Houston System at Sugar Land

Susan Reynolds, 281-275-3331

Tallas Insurance & Financial Services Jeff Tallas, 713-271-2000

17 Years HLS Enterprises of Texas, Inc. Stephanie Christison-Marks, 281-494-1818 Sterling Classic Homes Tom R. Neyland, 281-932-4881 Trent Internationale School Uttara Rangraj, 281-980-5800 18 Years Hrbacek & Associates, PC Dean Hrbacek, 281-240-2424 19 Years Colony Eye Care Center Robert A. Salchak, 281-265-2020

21 Years The Swinging Door Steven Onstad, 281-342-4758 Ed’s Pharmacy Ed Sziy, 281-499-4555 Southwest Exterminating Company Nick Spillios, 281-498-3232 22 Years Fort Bend Regional Council on Substance Abuse, Inc. Lisa Poynor, 281-207-2400 Marion, Montgomery, Inc. Natalie Rivera, 713-523-7900 23 Years Freedom Automotive Services, Inc. John Miller, 281-499-4797 36 Years Stewart Title Mary Alice Gonzalez, 281-491-7050 38 Years Stafford Chiropractic Clinic John A. Felker, 281-499-2424

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

www.FortBendChamber.com CUTT

RIBBON

INGS

Fantastic Sams

5614 W. Grand Parkway S., Suite 105 Richmond, TX 77469 281-394-0530 We welcome this location to the Fantastic Sams family of over 1,350 salons located throughout five countries. Our full-service salons can satisfy the entire family’s hair care needs, from cuts and styles to waves, curls and color. Fantastic Sams also offers an exclusive line of fantastic hair care products, which include quality shampoos, conditioners, styling aids and treatments, in addition to carrying a wide array of other professional hair care brands. Owned and operated by Yanira and Ermis Orellana. Yanira (Yani) is a hair stylist herself with 11 years of experience of which 6 have been with Fantastic Sams. Our newly opened Fantastic Sams salon is located: 5614 W. Grand Parkway S. Ste. 105, Richmond, Texas, 77406 and is open Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Stop by for a visit, or call the salon at 281-394-0530 if you have any questions. No appointment is necessary!

S & G Firearms

3219 Greenridge Dr Missouri City, TX 77459 713-364-4867 S & G Firearms, LLC provides handguns, rifles, shotguns, various ammunition and accessories, and concealed handgun license (CHL) courses at a fraction above cost. This is due in part to the low overhead costs. S & G Firearms, LLC’s business philosophy is customer-focused and responsive to change, balanced by a clear understanding that value and quality guide our decision-making. S & G Firearms is owned and operated by police officers (Mario Gehret and Matthew Schlosser, whose combined law enforcement experience is over 22 years) and is committed to providing high quality products backed by lifetime warranties. Our office hours are by appointment only. You can reach us at 713.364.GUNS (4867) or 281.305.TCHL (8245). You can also e-mail us at sngfirearmsllc@gmail.com.

www.FortBendChamber.com 42

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

www.FortBendChamber.com CUTT

RIBBON

INGS

Senior Trust Alliance

19901 Southwest Freeway, Suite 245 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.207.5359 As many seniors know first-hand, planning for retirement includes much more than getting a 401K in order. With this in mind, a group of local professionals has come together to ensure that seniors can find trusted and professional services to meet their financial, legal, residential, personal care, organizational and even moving needs. These resources are specifically geared to the senior community, providing expertise to an often confusing array of services for an under-served population. This group of professionals has formed the Senior Trust Alliance, serving the Fort Bend County and surrounding areas. What makes this group distinctive is their wholehearted mission to provide seniors with a trusted source for competent and ethical services by compassionate and respected professionals dedicated to the specific needs of the senior community. The Senior Trust Alliance will strive to perform these services fairly and reasonably, with honesty, trust, timeliness, and consistency. The Senior Trust Alliance members are available to speak at local gatherings of seniors and their families, business events or church programs. To learn more about the Senior Trust Alliance, visit www.seniortrustsralliance. com or contact Ron Norsworthy at 281-207-5359, ron@homehelpersfortbend.com

The Caring Circle 869 Dulles Ave. suite D Stafford, TX 77477 281-499-9922

The Caring Circle Adult Day Care is located at Sugar Creek Plaza in Sugarland, owned and operated by Charles & Artencia Raffington and their two lovely daughters Tishana and Jillian, a team of Chartoni Inc. a family corporation. The Caring Circle is doing the right thing by giving back to the community especially to those with special care needs. It’s an activity based daytime solution serving residents of Fort Bend, Harris and neighboring communities, serves as respite and support to family and caregivers offering them a break during the day. “We provide high quality professional care and service that helps enhance social and motor skills using innovative approaches to help keep minds alert”. We work hard to create a friendly and fun environment that is viable, clean & secure. We offer day activities and health services from life enrichment to nutritional assistance, entertainment and transportation to and from our facility with wheelchair accessible and so much more.

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

Upcoming Chamber Events

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

SOCIAL MEDIA BOOT CAMP A Workshop/Seminar Series for Fort Bend Business

SOCIAL MEDIA BOOT CAMP

✍ PART I - WHAT’S NEW WITH FACEBOOK?

✍Thursday, PART I -Sepember WHAT’S NEW WITH FACEBOOK? 16 - 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Thursday,bySepember 16 - 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Presented Lach Mullen Presented Mullen •What’s new by withLach FB Places?

•What’s FB Places? • What’s newnew wihwith FB Boxes? • What’s new wih FB Boxes? • What’s new with FB Pages?

What waiting What are are you you waiting for? for?

• What’s new with FB Pages?

✍✍ PARTPART II - IIPROFESSIONAL - PROFESSIONALNETWORKING NETWORKING ONLINE ONLINE Thursday, October 2121- 11:30 Thursday, October - 11:30a.m. a.m.- -1:00 1:00 p.m. p.m. Presented by Glenn Smith Presented by Glenn Smith& &Lach LachMullen Mullen • Establishing maintainingyour yourOnline OnlineIdentity Identity • Establishing andand maintaining • Leveraging power LinkedIn • Leveraging the the power of of LinkedIn • Making Online groups workforforyou you • Making Online groups work

- SOCIAL MEDIAMARKETING MARKETING ✍✍ PARTPART III -IIISOCIAL MEDIA

Thursday, November - 11:30a.m. a.m.--1:00 1:00 p.m. p.m. Thursday, November 1818- 11:30 Presented by Glenn Smith Presented by Glenn Smith • Generating new leads

✍

Learn your organization can benefit from the explosion Learn howhow your organization can benefit from the explosion of powerful new social media. Utilize twenty-first of powerful new social media. Utilize twenty-first centurycentury advertising marketing to boost your bottom PR,PR,advertising andand marketing to boost your bottom line. line. Experts in Social Media will present this series lunch and Experts in Social Media will present this series of lunchofand learn sessions: learn sessions: GlennGlenn Smith,Smith, GrowthGrowth Coach Coach Lach Public Information Systems Administrator LachMullen, Mullen, Public Information Systems Administrator FortFort BendBend County Emergency Management County Emergency Management

• Generating • Turning new Leadsleads into Qualified Prospects • Turning Leads into Qualified Prospects

✍

PART IV - SOCIAL MEDIA - ONLINE SECURITY & SAFETY

PART Thursday, IV - SOCIAL MEDIA - ONLINE December 9 - 11:30 a.m. - SECURITY 1:00 p.m. & SAFETY Thursday, December - 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Presented by Lach 9Mullen • Phishing Media Presented by over LachSocial Mullen

• New privacy tools • Phishing over Social Media • New privacy tools

SIGN ME UP!!!

All workshops are held at the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, 445 Commerce Green Boulevard, Sugar Land All workshops are prospective held at themembers Fort Bendor Chamber Commerce, $20 members and $25 walk ins forofeach workshop

445 Commerce Green Boulevard, Land ❏ September 16 - What’s New with Facebook? October Sugar 21 - Professional Networking Online $20 members and $25 prospective members or walk ins for each workshop December 9 - Online Safety and Security ❏ November 18 - Social Media Marketing

❏ September 16 - What’s New with Facebook? October 21 - Professional Networking Online Cancellations❏ mustNovember be received18 in writing & confirmed by 5:00 pm on the Wednesday prior9to- the event.Safety Thereafter, payment is due. - Social Media Marketing December Online and full Security Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce • 445 Commerce Green Boulevard • Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281.491.0216 • Fax 281.491.0112 • Keri@fortbendcc.org • www.fortbendchamber.com

Cancellations must be received in writing & confirmed by 5:00 pm on the Wednesday prior to the event. Thereafter, full payment is due. Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce • 445 Commerce Green Boulevard • Sugar Land, Texas 77478 281.491.0216 • Fax 281.491.0112 • Keri@fortbendcc.org • www.fortbendchamber.com

www.FortBendChamber.com 44

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

FORT BEND Fort Bend County Fair & Rodeo festive party

Claude Leatherwood, center, vice-president & COO of Houston Community Bank, hosted a social for county fair volunteers, queen candidates and sponsors. Claudia Wright, left, President of the Fort Bend County Fair.

A pre-sponsor event at Houston Community Bank for the Fort Bend Fair brought out county fair volunteers and enthusiasts as the event nears its kickoff. (l-r) Kaylay Mills, of the fair queen candidates, takes a moment to visit with Amy Mitchell and Marilynn and Ed Scanlin.

Susan Sillavan, Fort Bend County fair manager, is joined by Mark and Tracey Schmid, county fair sponsors, along with Elizabeth Duff Drozd, president of the Fort Bend County Fair Association at the festive party hosted by Houston Community Bank.

Fort Bend County Fair pre-sponsor party held at HCB

Mark Millis, Jeff Council, Fair President-Elect William Carter, and Don Dulin enjoyed the festive pre-sponsor party held at the Houston Community Bank.

Judy Detas, Jenny Ferrell and J.C. Haigh were among those at the pre-sponsor party for the Fort Bend Fair at the Houston Community Bank.

Claude Leatherwood and Karen and Craig Wright salute those generating the momentum for the 2010 Fort Bend County Fair. Kona Grill provided the refreshments.

Sugar Land Rotary Club Shrimpfest

A Marilyn Monroe look alike takes a moment to visit with friends at the Sugar Land Rotary Club’s 21st Annual Shrimpfest, the civic group’s one fundraising event that is very popular in the community

Brian Barnes of Classic Chevy in Sugar Land (left) hands over the keys to Paul Dobb (center), who won the Victory Red 2010 Chevrolet Camaro at this year’s 21st Annual Shrimpfest sponsored by the Sugar Land Rotary Club. General Sales Manager Mark Kolon (right) gives Dobb a big congratulatory handshake.

Sonny Johnston, the reputable cook of the Sugar Land Rotary Club has done it for all of the club’s 21 Shrimpfest events. Now that’s really a cook who’s been in the “kitchen” for a while!

BIG SHOTS

Data Beat DBA (Assumed Names)

(+) = More Names

This is a sample of the Assumed Names (DBAs) filed at the Fort Bend County Clerk’s office for August 2010. More Assumed Names may be viewed online at http://ccweb.co.fort-bend.tx.us/RealEstate/SearchEntry.aspx. There were 392 Assumed Names with Notary Fee for month of August. There were also 103 Assumed Names without a notary fee. Orozco Javier Javier Orozco Drywall 202 Broadmore 77545

Scott Linda South West Living Center 16107 Kensington Dr 77479

Elemeuwa Brittany Excellence-N-Learning 17331 Edgehaven Dr 77489

Wellness Leasing Inc Natural Balance 16659 Sw Freeway 461 77479

Derbes Tina (+) All-Out Extreme Electronics 4438 Topaz Trail Dr 77479

Tge Group Llc Traylor Associates 24043 Hackberry Creek 77494

Saw Chiu-Pin Saw’s Welding & Fabrication Co 9022 Hwy 36 77461

The Malayalee News Inc (+) The Malayalee News (+) 610 Fm 1092 #112 77477

Garay Adrian (+) Tacos La Chipocluda 22107 Winter Sky Ln 77469

Gibbons Frank Frosty Air Conditioning 2414 Oakview Dr 77459

Hasan Oana (+) Pampicakes 11039 Dellrose Crossing Dr 77406

Lovelady Vonzell Strongg V Entertainment 3350 Hwy 6 154 77478

Lemke John Earl Pearl Energy Services 605 Ironwood Ct 77469

Tge Group Llc Traylor Group 24043 Hackberry Creek 77494 Silas James G.O.D. Transportation 1234 Myers Mill 77489 Vital Stephanie D Loving Your Hair From Inside Out 6306 Drayton Hall 77459 Simpson Sharetha Nicole Phenomenal You 1722 Teal Bend Ct 77545 Boukheir Elie Boukheir Tennis 26311 Westheimer Pkwy 77494 Scott Bennie Scotty Handyman Service 15619 Briargate Ct 77489 Owens Gayle Got Mum 11127 Overland Trail Drive 77406 Runge Dayna Oh Boy! Photography 5415 Marble Ravine Dr 77407 Nash Leslie Thankful 506 Richer Ln 77469

Capolingo Dennis J Eco 2 Copy 403 West Grand Parkway Suite F 77494 Jones Joseph Jones Pallets And Plastic Company 1615 Tower Grove Ct 77489 Scott Rebecca Resumes For Less 17002 Midnight Dawn Dr 77407 Scott Rebecca Resumes & Resources 17002 Midnight Dawn Dr 77407 Lehmann Kurt Lehmann Consulting Services 2319 Ern Bend Lane 77494 Adams Janet E (+) Flowers By Janet 21232 Cherrington Dr 77450 Gingrich Diane L (+) Creditchek 25 Beacon Hill 77479 Kalombo Arthur K Ttb Enterprises 2631 Cardinal Elm St 77545

Robinson Jon M K3 Performance Sailing 6407 Scarlet Ridge Ct 77479

Jung Leslie Lynn Lynn Jung, Southwestern Fine Artist 5010 Grove West Blvd #1601 77477

Tr’lane Catering, Inc. (+) Good To Go 23144C Cinco Ranch Blvd 77494

Gibbons Frank Chilly Bear Air A/C And Heating 2414 Oakview Dr 77459

Matthews Kendric K Prince Porn Movie Star Supermodel Producer - Co 2020 Rocky Falls 77469

Gibbons Frank Fairlane A/C And Heating 2414 Oakview Dr 77459

Parks N Pauline Thomas Progressive Solutions 7531 Winterview Dr 77489

Matthews Kendric Karl Conversation Analysis Expert Sociology Relationship 2020 Rocky Falls 77469

Monkeybug Llc Strata-One Counsulting P O Box 17021 77496

Vb2 And Associates Llc Quail Valley Pharmacy 2244 Fm 1092

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

Kalejaiye Olufunmilayo Gray Stacey V Grovee Party Rentals Gray’s Good Eats 21207 Granite Trail Lane 77407 3919 E Teal Estates Cir 77545

Ballard Lawrence (+) Lb Transport Llc 170 Shiloh Dr 77469

Wafer Diedra J Wafer Transportation Services 5411 Raintree Dr 77459

Mesecke Alton (+) Mesecke Water Well 8102 Leroy Rd 77469

Elkins Weston Archon Communications Consulting 2400 Old South Dr Apt 1122 77406

Mytyz Llc Bullpen Pizza & Sports Bar 14019 Southwest Fwy Suite 204 77478

Along The Brazos Investments Llc Richmond Executive Offices 907 Morton St 77469

Elkins Weston Infinity Speech Writing 2400 Old South Drive Apt 1122 77406 Pelle Charlesworth W Cwp Company 2918 Feather Green Trail 77545 Pelle Charlesworth W Texas Reliable Lawn Service 2918 Feather Green Trail 77545 Pelle Charlesworth W Texas Reliable Tax Service 2918 Feather Green Trail 77545 Shead G Layne Shead Insurance 2602 Glen Lakes Ln 77459 Davis Carlos Country Lane Grooming & Rescue 2611 Charles Ln 77498 Johnson Gay Gay Jones Art 1214 Pecan Ave 77469 Green Rayvonnia Rayvonnia Green 7015 Castleview Lane 77489 Dewitt Daniel T State Trade Trucking 7211 Trogon Ln 77083

Daniels Charles W Daniels Pilot Service 8511 Woodland Willows Dr 77083

Surratt Shannon (+) Signature Remodeling & Design 1530 Stone Trail Dr 77479

Stephens Kyle Innovative Home Repair 3350 Hwy 6 422 77478

Jacson Elizabeth (+) Sanctuary Interiors International 17424 W Grand Parkway 220 77479

Stephens Kyle Distinct Contracting 3350 Hwy 6 422 77478

Rashad Brian Bjnr Entertainment 4418 Galesburg St 77051

Allison Jason (+) Match Cut Media 17017 Mercado Dr 77083

Foteh Carmen (+) Carmen’s Floral Designes 3706 Oakwick Forest 77459

Scott Wallace R Jr Eps Photography 8219 Talons Way 77459

Weams Cheryl Lynn Dmb’s Catering Services 206 Avenue E 77498

Jaramillo Gonzalo Iii Trinity Paving Construction 1010 Surrey Cir 77476

Weams Cheryl Lynn Children’s Outreach Ministry 206 Avenue E 77498

Wang Feixue Wang’s Granite Llc 4675 Sweetwater Blvd 77479

Frazier Jeffrey L (+) Pro-Tex 17366 Candela Dr 77083

Breedlove Donna Mom & Pop’s Pit Stop 936 Fm 359 77406

Wilson Robert A (+) Bob Wilson Raw Talent Enterprise 1803 Arbor View Drive 77479

Jones Donna M (+) Jones’ Loving Arms 9351 Eaglewood Glen Trail 77083

Bosarge Joshua Cody (+) C&C Landscaping (+) Po Box 17854 77496

Mays Bryan Good Music Family Gmf Records 5525 Reading Rd Apt #603 77471

Thorne Jaron Miles Mechanical 5842 Silver Oak Dr 77459

Wilson Elliott L Benola Music Publication 5410 Raintree Drv 77459

Data Beat DBA (Assumed Names)

(+) = More Names

Murphy Gail Y Gailmadeit Designs 1814 Plantation Drive 77406

Ngo-Maul Melissa (+) Simply Bliss Photography 4710 Cedarfield Rd 77494

Kayes Andrew Gregory Renovations 3306 Golden Tee Ct 77459

Teagle Erin Colour U 16210 Samoa Way 77053

Lyons Monique Nicole The Lyons’ Den P O Box 410 77469

Paryl Anita Ab Speech Services 2143 Morning Park Dr 77494

Orr Jerbri Geo Travel Services 6211 Canyon Park 77450

Amaan Associates Inc Az Auto Title Loan (+) 209 Lane Dr 77471

Rgi Building Maintenance Llc Gold Star Services 19901 Southwest Frwy 77479

Dennis Lewis Ministries Inc Dennis Lewis Ministries Inc P O Box 803 77406

Shackleford Donovan Fung Gilbert Advanced Digital Imaging Solutions Cki Event Productions (+) 7806 Foster Brook Lane 77407 8 Old Windsor Way 77479

Ballard Lawrence Lb Transport (+) 170 Shiloh Dr 77469

Paredes Nelson A Pr Advertising Specialties 18122 Surrey Lake Ln 77407

Alvarado Armando Jarocho’s Disco 2403 1St Street 77471

Greims Rodney Greims Enterprises 3903 S Mason Ro #716 77450

Johnson Keith Dj One Sports And Entertainment Group 1706 Lake Charlotte Ln 77406

Fkc Holdings Incorporated Fkc Holdings 9894 Bissonet Suite 100 I 77036

Meza Rogelio 360 Recruiting P O Box 1293 77487

Choi & Shim Inc Beauty Zone 503 Texas Parkway 77489

Bose Tina Infused Performing Arts 2938 S Main St 77477

Chandler Precious Precious Youth Transportation 1919 Appleton Dr 77489

Sampath Harini Simha Travels 4414 Della Creek Way 77459

Nguyen Vuong Minh Vn Air Conditioning & Heating Residential & Commercial 5710 Berwick Ct 77479

Agbor Christin A.G.B.O.R. House 16018 Chimney Rock 77489 Agbor Christin Safe House 16018 Chimney Rock 77489

Lewis Keila M Bounce-A-Round Moonwalks 1919 Hawthorne Brook Lane 77545

Guidry Brandy P Gloarious Gifts 5707 Story Book Trail 77459

Castro Denise Eminent Concierge Services 13502 Naples Bridge Rd 77478

Capilongo Family Corp Inc Eco2 Copy 403 West Grand Parkway 77494

Mayfield Mark Mc Solutions 4310 Whickham Drive 77441

Argueta Jose J Argueta Home Remodeling 7702 Windy Lea Ln 77407

Mathews Katherine Heights Chamber Players 6407 Winding Cove Ln 77450

Keep Enterprises Inc Affordable Quality Plumbing 2809 Longwood Dr 77581

Hamilton Joseph A Hamilton Insurance Company 15503 Gateview Ln 77489

Miller Robert G Ofoeyeno Prince E.G Garza & Assoc - Rent Account Tendercare Pediatric Therapy 714 Grillo Way 77471 8819 Corbridge Drive 77469

Zerber Derek Student Tutor 1103 Dulles #1204 77477

Keep Enterprises Inc Keep Home Services 2809 Longwood Dr 77581

Mundle Edna May (+) M&J Personal Care Home 4802 Cotter Lane 77471

Scott William J Club Crystal 13043 Loop 541 77451

R & R Ventures Inc Budget Windshield Repair 4614 Springfield Lakes Dr 77479

Kimble Calvin (+) Antonio’s Mexican Resturant Seafood - Bbq - & Tacos 9511 Hwy 36 77464

Grice Tena M Heart & Soul Personal Home Care 4319 Oak Forest Dr 77459

Rhodes Buford Dusty Rhodes Vending Serv. 807 Wheel House Dr 77477

Hardy Michael (+) Trione Coffee 8031 Crescent Knolls Dr 77406

Gonzalez Rolando (+) Aztec Heritage Painting 219 Sunset Colony Dr 77583

Seahorn Samuel D Picture My Vision Entertainment 927 Whispering Pine Dr 77489

Du Xiaotao Zpower Company 2119 Wedgefield Place 77479

Black Gregory (+) Trim Worx 12310 Fox Meadow Dr 77477

Abraham Roy (+) Precision Cardiovascular Diagnostics 2822 Colonial Dr 77479

Mathews Carl Glyn Jr Mathews Tractor Service 5010 Fm 723 77406

Siddiqui Izhar A (+) Izee Inc Dba R.S. Smart Cellular 2115 Thompson Rd 77469 Woodson Gary L Whirlaway Health Service Nurseing & Rehab 2202 Whirlaway Dr 77477 Manning Michael Buddy Boy Woodberry & Carl Coleman Barbeque & Restaurant 4419 Cory Lane 77459 Huerta Albino L Albino Trim Service 2123 Rittenmore Dr 77489 Wilcox Sonya (+) Kinfolks Cafe Llc 8740 Hwy 6 S 77083 Jackson Kay Gibson Seven Equal Seven Ministry 10888 Hunnington Estate Dr 77099

Woodson Gary L Whirlaway Personal Care Homes Degraffenried Dianne (+) 2202 Whirlaway Dr 77477 All Critters Great And Small Pet Sitting Svc. Manning Michael Jr 2919 Plantation Wood Ln 77459 Sjs Dba Sterling Janitorial Service 4423 Cory Lane 77459 Okorafor Nena (+) Unc Star Healthcare Services Guice Richard A 7515 Boxwood Ridge 77407 Rsj Consulting 7210 Timberlake Dr 77479 Hnq Enterprise Llc Maiberry Sugar Land Bernard-Wood Marie A 16535 Southwest Fwy Alexandre’s Etiquette Advantage Suite 75 77479 9203 Hwy 6 South Ste # 127-404 77083 Moore Corine M All Student Shuttle Reid Kathryn 17615 Lakes Of Reid Business Solutions Pine Forest Dr 77084 707 Annies Way 77479 Nwanna E Chinyere Callaway Brett W Houston Family Medical Clinic Close Your Eyes 6200 Savoy Dr Ste 240 77036 4515 Misty Hollow Dr 77459 Robinson Tamintris Anderson Karen K (+) T R Notary & Associates Shedazzle 809 Stafford Springs Ave 77477 3210 E Farmington Lane 77479

Mccarble Anthony Greeways Today 1819 Cedarwood Ct 77498 Rockly Creek Dental Care P C My Dentist 6701 Highway 6 Suite 170 77459 Kwong Patrick K G Construction And Management (+) 21431 Beverly Chase Drive 77406 Wood Tarretta (+) Home Depot Services 9200 Westheimer Rd 77065 Badri Corporation Edible Arrangements 8740 Highway 6 Ste 110 77459

Rankin Elaina E Rosarank 4958 N Cancun Dr 77045 Thayer Patrick Lone Star Landscaping And Maintenance 1906 Legion Way Ct 77406 Xu Qi Seaborne Consulting 5418 Montbury Ln 77450 Akinola Iyabo Funke Dammy International Enterprise Usa 20019 Juniper-Berry Dr 77407 Kibe Wanda All In The Family Soul Food Restaurant 816 Leonard Ave 77469

October 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Data Beat

SEPTEMBER 2010 Sales Tax Allocation Comparison Summary Reports Sales Tax Allocation Comparison Summary reports present data about monthly local sales and use tax allocation payments to local sales taxing jurisdictions. These net payments represent monies identified for the local jurisdictions since the previous monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s distribution. These reports will allow you to compare current year sales and use tax payments with the previous year. When used with other local economic indicators, they may help indicate present and future trends. County/City Fort Bend

Net Payment This Period

Comp Payment Prior Year

% Change To Date

2009 Payments To Date

2008 Payments Change

Percent

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

21,602.48 7,532.30 28,522.23 1,147.81 78,783.06 482,825.56 26,777.96 4,056.65 4,787.24 323,478.48 921,506.14 15,985.62 992,406.57 2,749,220.47 1,322.93

28,930.20 15,142.30 21,422.85 1,189.24 68,431.67 472,409.97 0.00 5,764.06 3,582.54 317,893.92 810,834.20 4,458.10 949,184.39 2,945,279.75 1,197.03

-25.32% -50.25% 33.13% -3.48% 15.12% 2.20% U/C -29.62% 33.62% 1.75% 13.64% 258.57% 4.55% -6.65% 10.51%

178,811.42 48,196.87 279,886.99 11,990.71 729,685.45 4,534,479.87 266,474.28 33,203.43 59,245.84 3,114,942.18 8,453,214.90 85,612.90 9,740,165.72 28,372,943.87 25,926.26

238,903.50 67,146.82 263,606.75 11,554.68 793,389.29 4,485,739.96 258,139.40 37,948.14 32,621.35 3,198,524.93 7,964,020.87 38,704.90 10,561,811.82 29,896,679.14 12,252.42

-25.15% -28.22% 6.17% 3.77% -8.02% 1.08% 3.22% -12.50% 81.61% -2.61% 6.14% 121.19% -7.77% -5.09% 111.60%

COUNTY TOTAL 5,659,955.50

5,645,720.22

0.25%

55,934,780.69

57,861,043.97

-3.32%

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

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

Net Payment This Period

Comp Payment Prior Year

36,211,769.26 16,640,047.69 15,112,011.23 10,630,899.03 8,908,974.19 6,315,270.35 5,269,587.41 5,109,873.30 4,223,667.30 4,591,248.25 4,440,730.82 3,877,347.95 3,704,685.92 3,165,287.01 3,168,486.87 2,749,220.47 2,975,770.98 2,745,810.04 2,476,752.92 2,613,396.93

35,701,446.45 15,666,439.65 15,012,681.07 9,805,952.40 7,121,483.68 6,422,960.68 4,865,778.90 6,158,133.68 4,291,266.96 4,384,429.24 4,396,248.12 4,024,049.01 3,799,166.73 3,667,977.43 2,910,104.19 2,945,279.75 2,861,705.68 2,400,826.80 2,313,035.79 2,538,535.47

Fort Bend Business Journal â&#x20AC;˘ October 2010

% Change To Date

1.42% 6.21% 0.66% 8.41% 25.09% -1.67% 8.29% -17.02% -1.57% 4.71% 1.01% -3.64% -2.48% -13.70% 8.87% -6.65% 3.98% 14.36% 7.07% 2.94%

2009 Payments To Date

2008 Payments Change

355,743,616.65 157,351,053.98 154,160,405.31 103,480,610.74 74,817,862.44 61,995,175.32 51,700,852.03 47,533,223.42 44,242,734.17 42,726,035.82 41,669,930.43 41,270,367.35 37,139,789.63 33,118,515.64 30,299,949.48 28,372,943.87 27,131,418.99 26,155,932.45 25,523,757.75 25,116,323.05

375,814,473.48 153,873,793.43 157,762,410.74 99,027,305.67 74,222,000.91 60,232,935.56 49,005,447.78 44,795,033.61 41,681,396.23 43,265,869.63 44,030,958.45 41,370,482.52 37,015,548.51 35,713,172.55 28,237,732.79 29,896,679.14 26,988,506.93 26,896,395.77 24,068,991.96 26,769,558.79

Percent

-5.34% 2.25% -2.28% 4.49% 0.80% 2.92% 5.50% 6.11% 6.14% -1.24% -5.36% -0.24% 0.33% -7.26% 7.30% -5.09% 0.52% -2.75% 6.04% -6.17%

Data Beat

Commercial Building Permits

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

TYPE OF PERMIT

VALUE

MISSOURI CITY 2803 Dulles Ave 6261 Hwy 6 300 5706 Hwy 6 6215 Hwy 6 300 1522 Texas Pkwy

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

$60,000 $375,000 $60,000 $75,000 $1,000,000

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial & Residential)

08/01/10-08/31/10

$3,219,641

ROSENBERG 828 3rd St 828 3rd St 3326 Avenue 1 28000 Southwest Fwy 6323 Irby Cobb Blvd 4011 Avenue H 2128 1st St 2304 Bamore Rd

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

$175,000 $175,000 $52,000 $150,000 $400,000 $60,000 $42,000 $284,000

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial & Residential)

08/01/10-08/31/10

$1,657,428

RICHMOND 2900 Thompson Rd

Commercial Building

$4,480

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial & Residential)

08/01/10-08/31/10

$4,480

STAFFORD 12161 Southwest Frwy 11151 Cash Rd 10323 Greenland Ct 10635 Brighton Ln 12613 Executive Dr 12603 Executive Dr 220 FM1092

Commercial New Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel Commercial Remodel

$500,000 $775,000 $180,000 $114,000 $161,550 $254,400 $285,000

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial & Residential)

08/01/10-08/31/10

$2,334,250

SUGAR LAND 3430 State Hwy 6 56 Sugar Creek Center Blvd Ste 300 13135 Dairy Ashford Rd Ste 100 500 Dulles Ave 2277 Plaza Dr. Ste 650 3400 State Hw 6 500 Dulles Ave 19900 Southwest Fwy 816 Park Two Dr 4690 Sweetwater Blvd Ste 280 16535 Lexington Blvd Ste 150 15870 Southwest Fwy Ste 400 15035 Southwest Fwy 16605 Southwest Fwy Ste 220 927 Julie Rivers Dr One Fluor Daniel Dr Bldg C-2

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

$1,400,000 $137,700 $112,000 $2,245,044 $71,377 $334,986 $100,000 $609,519 $110,700 $60,000 $182,286 $65,000 $70,144 $118,805 $605,785 $623,900

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial & Residential)

08/01/10-08/31/10

$13,338,453

OWNER/CONTRACTOR Pecan Holdings LLC/Level Pro Home Scvs. B & C Constructors, LP Riverstone Retail Partners LTD SDI Missouri City Holdings LLC/B & C Constructors, LP Missouri City Hall

Butler William C/Butler Commercial Properties Butler William C/Butler Commercial Properties Ake Investments LLC MMP Services Inc Lennar Homes Reliant Energy/Prime Electric BMH Holdings LLC, Mike Lerma Construction SLM Construction Services

Del Webb/Ridgewood Landscaping

Chick-Fil-A/Owner/Occupant Parker Hannafin/Angler Construction Teledyne Geophysical Instruments/Deem Commercial Construction Maxim Silencers, Inc./ Hilco Metal Roofing Supply CB Richard Ellis Facilities Management/Baro Companies DCT Tx 2004 RN Portofolio LLP/ Empire Roofing Companies Ashcraft/European Bakery/ StarTex Construction

HSMEP William Trace, LP/Axiom Construction Company LLC Sugar Creek Opportunity Fund I/Generation Builders GPI-M Sugar Creek, LP/O’Donnel / Snider Construction Ft. Bend ISD/Gamma Construction Company Town Center Lakeside, LTD/D E Harvey Builders, Inc First Community Credit Union O/Lagrone Services Ft. Bend ISD/Gamma Construction Company EMI Corp/HEB Grocery Company Park Two SL, LLC/Capital Reconstruction Inc FCB Fort Bend Holdings, LLC/Crossmark Devel & Const LLC Sugar Land Lexington Square LT/Precon Construction Services Lake Pointe Town Center, LTD/United Constructiors of TX, Inc Nuevo Suspects , LP/Mission Constructors, Inc Methodist Hospital/South Coast Const Services Inc August Companies Lakepointe Assets, LLC/Burton Construction Company

October 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

NEWSWORTHY Learn job-search survival tips at First Colony Branch Library Have you been searching for a job and not having any luck? Maybe it’s time for a change in your game plan. Fort Bend County Libraries’ First Colony Branch Library, 2121 Austin Parkway in Sugar Land, will present a free, three-part series of “Job-Search Survival Tips,” beginning on Monday, October 18, from 5:30 to 8:45 p.m., in the Meeting Room of the library. The series will continue on October 19 and 20, at the same place and time. Different topics are discussed each night. The three-part series is designed to help all job-hunters, from those applicants applying for a position at a fast-food restaurant to executives looking for a position in a large company. The tips that are presented can help any applicant plan a more efficient job hunt and make a more favorable impression.

Learn tips on writing a better resumé, researching prospective employers, interviewing and non-verbal skills, making a great first impression, networking, and much more. By developing an organized plan of action, the applicant is able to experience a more efficient job hunt with an increased chance of success. In the series, a team of 10 professionals, with decades of experience in corporate America between them, will share their insight and the experiences they themselves have had in the business world – from the perspective of the employer doing the hiring as well as the employee looking for a job. Led by head business coach, Mickey Mixon, the job-search survival team includes business owners, financial and mortgage advisors, computer consultants, sales and marketing

professionals, and advertising and communications executives – all of whom volunteer their time for this workshop. “During these recessionary times, with more candidates competing for fewer available positions, it is imperative that those in the job-search scramble learn to effectively communicate their experience, skills, accomplishments and personal attributes in order to ‘sell’ themselves to potential employers,” says Mixon. “Our aim is to equip each participant in our program with the necessary skills to accomplish that goal.” The sessions are free and open to the public. Registration is not required, and late arrivals are welcome. For more information, call the libraries’ Public Information Office at 281-341-2677.

CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital presents $60,000 grant to Christ Clinic of Katy CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital has made a $60,000 grant to Christ Clinic of Katy through its CHRISTUS Fund, a grant program sponsored by CHRISTUS Health that provides funding to community initiatives focused on the poor and underserved. “Christ Clinic is grateful to the CHRISTUS Fund for once again providing us with much needed resources to continue serving our community,” says Carolyn Works, Clinic Manager for Christ Clinic. “This grant will allow the clinic to hire medical staff and to purchase medical supplies to continue our mission as a reflection of God’s love and healing grace.” Christ Clinic is a charity health clinic with pharmacy services for the uninsured people in the Katy community. It provides care for both the physical and spiritual needs of its patients. Christ Clinic depends upon community support for its activities and services, including countless hours of time donated by dedicated volunteers. Funding for the Clinic comes from grants and donations from various foundations, such as the CHRISTUS Fund, as well as from churches, hospitals, companies, and individuals throughout the Katy and Houston area. The intent of the CHRISTUS Fund is

to provide resources to not-for-profit agencies and groups whose vision, mission and goals are consistent with CHRISTUS Health’s mission, values and philosophy of a healthy community. Organizations that meet these criteria are allowed to submit proposals for programs that support community planning and/or community-based programs which reflect local community priorities. The resources available through the CHRISTUS Fund are

in addition to the money traditionally spent by CHRISTUS facilities for charity care and community health programs. Since it opened its doors in 2000, Christ Clinic has served more than 15,000 patients. The clinic is located at 5504 First Street in Katy. Its hours of operations are Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, visit www.christclinickaty.org or call (281) 391-0190.

Kublai Khan Crazy Mongolian Stir Fry coming soon to Lake Pointe Town Center Lake Pointe Town Center is gaining a new retail tenant. Kublai Khan Crazy Mongolian Stir Fry will open a restaurant in Lake Pointe Village, the Whole Foodsanchored shopping center at the intersection of Highway 59 and State Highway 6, according to Planned Community Developers, Ltd. Kublai Khan will feature create-yourown Mongolian-style stir fry, bringing to Sugar Land a unique twist to this popular style of cooking. This is the third location

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

for the restaurant, the others are located in Katy and Houston. Located at 15830 Southwest Freeway, Suite 200, Kublai Khan occupies 3,190 square feet of retail space. The restaurant is scheduled to open in late 2010. Kyle Geary of Richland Investments, Inc. represented Kublai Khan in the transaction. Charles Adams, vice president of retail for PCD, represented PCD. For more information about Kublai Khan visit KublaiKhanStirFry.com.

Submit Newsworthy items to sharon@fortbendstar.com

Accredo Packaging Inc. to expand manufacturing facility in Sugar Land Accredo Packaging, Inc.,a company specializing in the design and manufacture of flexible packaging products, has opened Phase I of its state-of-the-art, flexible packaging facility in the Sugar Land Business Park. The present facility, designed to LEED Silver certification standards, was the first of its kind in the United States, utilizing traditional materials, as well as cuttingedge environmentally friendly materials, to produce the latest in high performance packaging solutions. The plant provides a showcase for the latest in advanced equipment and production methods, minimizing waste, pollution and carbon emissions, while utilizing 100 percent wind-generated electrical power and the facility recently received regional recognition as a finalist in the Houston Business Journal’s 2010 Landmark Awards. On Sept. 21 a tax abatement agreement was approved for the company by Sugar Land City Council. The agreement will provide a tax abatement on new real property improvements and personal property for a planned 171,000-square-foot expansion. The expansion is being designed for LEED Silver certification and will add more than $9 million in real property investment, $22 million in personal property, $1 million in new inventory value and a minimum of 100 new jobs to the community. Janak Sheth, executive vice president and chief financial officer of API Realty, said: “The expansion of the Accredo facility will allow for increased productivity and efficiency which will ultimately benefit our customers. We will continue to embrace the sustainable building concept in our current expansion so as to minimize environmental impact.”

Pink Elementary benefits from donation from Fluor employees “Using Common Threads to weave a tapestry of success” is the motto of Common Threads, Lamar CISD’s program that assists families in needs with donations of clothing, school supplies and even toiletries. The employees of Fluor, a Sugar Land

Representing the employees of Fluor are Community Relations Manager Cynthia von Tesmar and Senior Project Director Richard Meserole (back row, left to right). Accepting the donation are (front row, left to right) Chaianne Bee, Pink Elementary principal Chandra Woods, Common Threads Coordinator Jill Duban and Breanna Castillo.

engineering firm, made the tapestry a bit richer recently, with a donation of $8,100 to Common Threads to be used for the students at Pink Elementary in Richmond. “Fluor employees are strong supporters of the local community and education and we are proud to support the great things LCISD is doing,” said Richard Meserole, a senior project director for Fluor. “We hope that in some way our donation helps to continue that success.” Meserole also credited Pink principal Chandra Woods and her staff. “They have shown for several years that given any situation in life, the children can excel in school with the proper teaching environment and support from the community.” “It’s been a tough year for a lot of families,” said Jill Duban, Common Threads Coordinator. “This money will help many students with the basics needed for education: glue sticks, crayons, notebooks and backpacks.”

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land emergency center recognized TEAMHealth, one of the nation’s largest providers of hospital-based clinical outsourcing, recently chose Memorial Hermann Sugar

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Emergency Center team pictured left to right: (Back Row) Rajan Popat, M.D., Christine Callander, RN, Carolyn Hudson. (Front Row) Jean Smith, RN, Jin Kim, M.D., Pam Schaeper-Noe, RN, and Pamela Scott, RN.

Land Hospital Emergency Center among hundreds nationwide as one of its top-performing Emergency Centers. “We are honored to be recognized for the quality of care that we provide in the Memorial Hermann Sugar Land emergency center,” said Jin Kim, M.D., director of the emergency center. “It reflects the tremendous effort by our team of physicians, nurses and administrators to provide the best care for all of our patients.” Recognition is based on patient satisfaction, timeliness, core measure compliance, community reputation, growth, staff engagement / teamwork and physician and nursing leadership. For more information on Memorial Hermann Sugar Land, visit www.memorialhermann.org or call 281.725.5000.

October 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

NEWSWORTHY Missouri City welcomes Larry Foos as Parks & Recreation Director Missouri City announces the appointment of Larry Foos as the community’s new Director of Parks & Recreation. Confirmed at the Sept. 7 city council meeting, Foos comes to Missouri City from Wichita, Kansas and his first day on the job was Monday, Sept. 27. He succeeds Kelly Snook, who accepted the position of Assistant Director with the Austin Parks and Recreation Department this summer. Randy Troxell, Missouri City’s Assistant Parks Director, has served in the interim. “We have an excellent parks and recreation program and are very pleased to find such a great person to join our team,”

Fort Bend County breaks ground for University Branch Library Fort Bend County officially broke ground for Fort Bend County Libraries’ new University Branch Library, at 14010 University Blvd in Sugar Land, in September. The new library is a result of a partnership with the University of Houston System at Sugar Land, and will be the second joint-use facility in the Fort Bend County library system. Designed by Bailey Architects of Houston, the 2-story building will be approximately 40,193 square feet in size. E.E. Reed Construction, L.P. of Sugar Land is the general contractor. The library is part of a $130-million bond referendum approved by voters in May 2006, which included $24.5 million for three county library projects: the Sienna Branch Library, in partnership with Houston Community College; the University Branch Library, in partnership with the University of Houston and Wharton County Junior College, and renovations to the George Memorial Library in Richmond. The groundbreaking ceremony was officiated by County Judge Bob Hebert and County Commissioner James Patterson who were joined by other county, college and local officials in celebrating the start of construction. Completion of the project is expected in late 2011 or early 2012.

Mayor Allen Owen said. “His experience in Kansas overseeing multiple recreation centers and parks gives us the experience we need as we move into our major projects building our Larry Foos community, recreation, and tennis centers.” Foos is an accomplished professional with 26 years of experience and brings a wide-range of expertise to the position, having served most recently as Superintendent of Parks and Recreation in the City of Wichita, Kansas for the past 6 ½ years. During his tenure there, he oversaw 10 recreation centers, 11 swimming pools, three sports complexes, two spray parks, a nature center, a tennis center, youth and adult recreation and athletic programs, special events and the Wichita Ice Center. His department will include 15 employees in three divisions, with a Fiscal Year budget of approximately $2.4 million. Foos

will oversee the maintenance, operation and development of the area’s 20 developed parks, which cover a vast 354 acres. He will also handle a wealth of other responsibilities. Foos, who has also spent a significant number of years supervising parks and recreation programs in the Texas cities of Odessa and Midland, says he is “looking forward to becoming a part of the Missouri City community”, meeting citizens and learning the nuts and bolts of the department. “A big part of what we do is determined by the public, whether through community meetings or people contacting me, I look forward to seeing what the public wants to do,” he said. Foos is a member of the National Recreation and Park Association and the Kansas Recreation and Park Association. He will be joined in Missouri City by his wife, Carrie, and two daughters, Abigail, 7, and Rebekah, 5. The couple also has a grown son, Daniel. Carrie Foos is a Texas native, and was raised in the Odessa area. Her mother lives in San Angelo.

Texas Back to Work reaches 5,000 new hires Texas Back to Work has surpassed a milestone by helping more than 5,000 individuals secure employment to date. Funded by the Texas Legislature and supported by Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst, the initiative provides up to $2,000 in wage subsidies to Texas employers per qualified new-hire employee. Qualified individuals include those who are currently receiving or have received Unemployment Insurance benefits within the last year. “I’m pleased to see this innovative new program helping so many Texans get back to work,” said Lt. Gov. Dewhurst. “Texas Back to Work is not only providing job opportunities, income and training for thousands of newly hired employees; it’s also helping small businesses, growing our economy, and saving Texas taxpayers money in the process.” To date, 5,184 individuals have secured jobs with 1,511 employers who have received wage subsidies for hiring qualified out-ofwork Texans. “Texas Back to Work is one tool in TWC’s

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

arsenal to help qualified Texans re-enter the workforce,” said TWC Chairman Tom Pauken. “We would encourage other Texas employers to participate in the Texas Back to Work initiative.” Employers can sign up for Texas Back to Work by contacting their local workforce development boards. Local contact information is available at http://www.twc.state.tx.us/ svcs/txback2work/txback2work.html. TWC’s 28 local workforce development boards provide employers with workforce recruitment assistance, pre-screening of qualified applicants and training programs. More than 1.8 million customers were served in more than 240 workforce centers across Texas last year. Employers also are encouraged to take advantage of WorkInTexas.com, TWC’s online job matching website where more than 250,000 employers already are registered to post job openings and find great employees. Visit WorkInTexas at http://www.twc.state. tx.us/jobs/job.html

Submit Newsworthy items to sharon@fortbendstar.com

CHEMICO International moves to Katy area CHEMICO International, Inc., a specialty chemical blending company, is a major new addition to the Katy area business community. Founded more than 20 years ago in Corpus Christi, CHEMICO International has steadily built a reliable reputation nationally and internationally among companies manufacturing major base chemicals. Sam Owens, CHEMICO president and CEO, says his decision to transfer the company’s headquarters to the Katy area from Corpus Christi was based on the company’s rising international reputation, the Katy area’s proximity to a major international airport, more operating space at a reasonable cost, and the warm welcome CHEMICO received from the Katy Area Economic Development Council. “Katy Area EDC was the first to take a really good look at us,” says Owens, who also considered Victoria and San Antonio as potential sites for relocation, but says he occasionally ran into business leaders who did not fully appreciate what the company could offer. “The location we’ve selected has 21/2 to 3 times as much as space as our previous location, and less cost per square foot,” Owens says. continued on page page 58

Sugar Land Town Square retailer outfits beauty pageant contestants

Last weekend, women from all over the state competed in the 2011 Miss Texas USA Pageant in Houston. Sugar Land Town Square retailer Wardrobe – the Boutique dressed 26 of the 99 contestants, including the top five finalists. Boutique Store Director Ephraim Danforth has worked with contestants in pageants of all levels, from local to international, by providing dresses/wardrobe/council. The store features prom, gala, pageant and bridal gowns, shoes, swimsuits and accessories and offers personalized consultations. Pictured left to right are fourth runner-up Miss Fort Worth Kathryn Dunn, Store Director Ephraim Danforth and Miss Gulf Coast USA Christine Nwabeke. For more information on Wardrobe and Sugar Land Town Square, visit WardrobeTheBoutique.com or SugarLandTownSquare.com.

Designs In Gems opens in Sugar Land Town Square Designs in Gems to Sugar Land Town Square. Recently opened, the store features the sale, manufacture, repair and appraisal of diamonds, gemstones and other jewelry. It also offers custom jewelry design. Designs in Gems owner Bruce J. Snider chose to move his store from Houston, its previous location for 26 years. “I chose to relocate my business because I am from the area and enjoy the family atmosphere offered in Sugar Land Town Square,” said Snider, a graduate gemologist from the Gemological Institute of America. According to Planned Community Developers, Ltd. the store is located at 16180 City Walk. It occupies 1,198 square feet of retail space and boasts an Asian influenced design. Charles Adams, vice president of retail for PCD, represented PCD in the transaction; Snider represented Designs in Gems. More information on Designs in Gems can be found at DesignsInGems.com.

Hypoxi Therapy Studio opens at Sugar Land Town Square International Company Chooses Sugar Land for its second U.S. Location

GOT NEWS? Email your news or press release to sharon@FortBendStar.com We love to hear from you. Also, don’t forget to read The Fort Bend Star or visit www.fortbendstar.com Ideas & suggestions are also welcome.

A new retail tenant, Hypoxi Therapy Studio, will open in Sugar Land Town Square later this month. Hypoxi uses a combined system of cardio training and vacuum therapy services for targeted weight and size loss and cellulite improvement for both men and women. With approximately 2,000 studios located throughout the globe, the Sugar Land location represents the company’s first location in Texas and only its second in the United States. “Sugar Land Town Square is a great fit for the targeted age group that we are looking for,” said Hypoxi Therapy Studio Owner

Caroline Marache. “It is also very accessible from any other location in Houston.” Located at 2178 Texas Drive, Hypoxi occupies 3,200 square feet. The retail space will be built out to reflect the modern styling of Hypoxi’s machines. Marache represented herself in the transaction. Charles Adams, vice president of retail for Planned Community Developers, Ltd., represented PCD. For a complete list of Sugar Land Town Square retailers visit SugarLandTownSquare. com. Additional information on Hypoxi may be found at Hypoxi.net.

October 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Banks

To Be Listed Call

SERVICE DIRECTORY

281-690-4201

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

Auto Repair / Maintenance Auto Central-Automotive Service & Sales 281-499-9684 www.autocentral.biz david@autocentral.biz. David Fauvelle, 2526 Fifth Street, Stafford, Texas 77477, Fax: 281-499-0183, Fast, friendly and professional automotive repair. AAA approved auto repair. Charlton’s Body Repair 281-499-1126 www.charltonsbodyrepair.com. Chuck Charlton, 1131 Staffordshire @ 5th St., Stafford, TX 77477, Fax: 281-499-1694, Complete collision repair. Frame & Unibody straightened. Expert computer color matching. Custom painting & pin stripping. Honest service. 79 Years Strong and 3 Generations Proud! Colony One Auto Center 281-980-4440 www.colonyoneauto.com Rod Tate, 1131 Dulles Avenue, Stafford, TX 77477, Fax: 281-261-0048, Complete state of the art automotive repair & maintenance facility. First Tire & Automotive 281-313-2886 www.firsttireandauto.com Craig Popp, owner, 3 Sugar Land Locations. 960 Eldridge, 281-313-2886 & 2303 Williams Trace Blvd. 281-980-2666 (First Colony), 20015 Southwest Freeway. 281-343-5666 (Greatwood), Diagnostic testing and evaluation, Manufacturer’s routine recommended maintenance, domestic and foreign vehicle repairs, AAA approved, ASE certified. Ask about our Fleet Service!

Founders Bank 281-325-5000 www.foundersbanktx.com Email: customerservice@foundersbanktx.com. Fax: 281-325-5050. Fort Bend County only. Locally owned and managed bank. 4690 Sweetwater Blvd., Sugar Land 77479 The State Bank of Texas 281-494-6686 www.tsbot.com nbb@tsbot.com. Nicki Black, 13010 Murphy Road, Stafford, TX 77477, Fax: 281-494-6747, , Locally and independently owned - our prime interest is you! Sterling Bank - Fort Bend 281-277-0100 12840 Southwest Freeway, Stafford, TX 77477, Fax: 281-277-0223, Serving owner-operated businesses with local decision makers.

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

Country Clubs Riverbend Country Club 281-269-2526 www.riverbendcountryclub.org triciarbcc@gmail.com. Tricia Hawks, 1214 Dulles Avenue, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Conveniently located in the heart of Sugar Land, Riverbend Country Club is just 25 minutes south of downtown Houston, Texas. Established in 1957, Riverbend continues its tradition as Fort Bend County’s only member owned club. Whether you’re looking for championship golf, fine dining, pools, tennis, fitness facilities or a wide variety of social and golf activities Riverbend is definitely the place to belong. The Houstonian Golf & Country Club 281-494-4245 www.houstoniangolf.com Nicole Scarbrough, Membership Private golf & country club, *Limited membership available.

Fire Extinguisher Service Gillen Fire Extinguisher Service Commercial/Residential 281-342-6969 www.GillenServices.com Gillen Fire Extinguisher Service provides a full line of fire extinguisher inspections, sales and services, as well as lighted exit sign inspections and service. Our highly trained staff can even provide fire extinguisher training for your employees. For all of your safety needs, call Gillen Fire Extinguisher.

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

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

Golf Carts / Mobility Scooters CBC Golf Cart Services, Inc. 281-494-1164 Scooters by CBC 281-494-3454 www.cbcgolfcarts.com chris1001@windstream.net, 203 Ulrich Street, Sugar Land, TX 77498 (Behind Imperial Sugar). CBC offers Sales, Service, New & Used, Rentals and Parts for two lines of products, GOLF CARTS and MOBILITY SCOOTERS. Authorized Dealer for Fairplay and Pride Mobility products. fax 281-494-1189

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

Insurance Agencies Insurance Solutions of Texas 281-565-2222 • 281-341-5060 www.insurancesolutionsoftexas.com Jay Harris, Auto, Home, Business, Flood Insurance. 14140 Southwest Freeway, Suite 150, Sugar Land, Texas 77478. 281-565-2222, Fax 281-565-3333. 2515 Ave. H, Rosenberg, Texas 77471. 281-341-5060, Fax 281-341-5558.

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

Magazine Fort Bend Business Journal • 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com Fort Bend’s ONLY business publication. Reaching over 10,000 businesses monthly. The place to advertise to teach the vital Fort Bend County business community. Fort Bend Focus - 281-690-4242

Pharmacies

Staffing / Recruiting / Job Seeking

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

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

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

Printers / Graphics 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.

Optometrists Elissa R. Wedemeyer O.D., FCOVD, F.A.A.O 281-499-2600 www.drwedemeyer.com 6026 Hwy. 6 Missouri City, TX 77459. Therapeutic Optometrist, in house optical with a large selection of frames and contact lenses, medical management of eye infections and diseases.

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

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

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

Real Estate / Residential Colliers International, formerly Curtice Commercial Real Estate - 281-494-4769 kcurtice@curticecommercial.com. Kolbe M. Curtice, CCIM, CLS, 15999 City Walk Suite 250, Sugar Land Square located at U.S. Highway 59 and State Highway 6, Fax: 281-494-3227, Brokerage, Development, Investment & Tenant Representation, 25 yrs exp. in Fort Bend. Riverstone Development Co. - 281-499-8700 www.riverstone.com tom@riverstone.com. Tom Wilcox, 4855 Riverstone Blvd, Missouri City, Texas 77459, Fax: 281-499-8704, Luxury waterside living in Fort Bend from $200s to the many millions. Jeanne Gregory, CRS, GRI - 281-344-8918 www.jeannegregory.com jeannegregory@earthlink.net. 14905 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, Texas 77478, Fax: 281-242-6754, Re/Max Southwest. Residential real estate sales & corporate relocation. Jennifer Weaver, ABR, CRS, GRI - 281-207-5037 www.jenniferweaver.com RE/MAX Southwest, 14905 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, Texas 77478. Residential sales and corporate relocation since 1979. Janet Williams, Realtor – 832.724.4894 Realm Real Estate Professional www.har.com/jlwilliams janetw4co@yahoo.com 14090 Southwest Frwy, Ste 102. Sugar Land, TX 77478, It’s a great time to buy a HUD foreclosure with FHA financing because you just pay $100 down payment + closing cost. Call for details. Providing services for buyers, sellers, renters. Also specialize in short sales for residential and commercial.

Technical ProSource Meeting Your IT Staffing Needs 713-272-8800 www.TechnicalProSource.com Serving Fort Bend companies since 1989 by providing all levels of IT personnel, contract, contract to direct hire and direct-hire. We are the IT experts! To save our clients time we offer Video Resumes that allows the client to move faster through the interview process. Recognized in Forbes magazine as a leading Staffing Firm Provider. Recognized in Texas Monthly as Most Dependable Staffing Firm and voted Best of Staffing by CareerBuilder. We look forward to helping with your staffing needs.

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

Help people find your business here! To Advertise Call 281-690-4201 List your business in the Fort Bend/Katy Business Journal’s SERVICE DIRECTORY for only $300 for the whole year.

October 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

SERVICE DIRECTORY

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

NAMES IN THE Contract Land staff welcomes Wendy Brown Wendy Brown has joined Contract Land Staff, LLC in Stafford as vice president of business development. Brown brings over 15 years of successful sales and executive management experience in the software and energy industries. Her focus will primarily be on technology, CLSLiNK® and CLSLiNK GIS™ Viewer, CLS’s proprietary right of way technology solutions offering land records management, tracking and GIS mapping software solutions utilizing the latest server and web technology from ESRI. She will drive the sales strategy for Contract Land Staff - building on the company’s leadership position in the Right of Way industry. “This is an exciting time in the energy

industry and Wendy’s track record of building successful sales organizations and increasing market share will be a valuable asset in the support of the company’s business initiatives and Wendy Brown strategic growth plan” said Laurie Markoe, President and COO. Brown graduated with a B.S. in Marketing from the University of Phoenix and was most recently director of business development at APX, Inc. Founded in 1985, Contract Land Staff, LLC is one of the leading land management and right of way consultants in the United States. With over 400 employees,

CLS provides a combination of land and property management solutions including right of way acquisition and IT consulting services, training, staffing, and land and real estate administration services. CLS’s proprietary right of way technology solutions include web-based GIS enabled CLSLiNK®, and the Virtual Right of Way Department. Together these right of way data management solutions represent the most comprehensive land records management, tracking, and GIS digital mapping software solutions in the industry. CLS serves pipeline, utility, power and electric transmission, rail, public sector, solar and wind generation, and telecommunications clients nationwide.

Salute to Mason Briscoe II The 2010 Fort Bend County Fair & Rodeo was dedicated to Mason Briscoe II for his more than forty years of dedication and service to the fair. He was one of the forefathers that lead the Fort Bend County Fair & Rodeo to where it is today. Mason Briscoe II was born in 1924 at the family home in Richmond. He graduated from Richmond High School at the age of 14 and began college at Texas A&M University of the young age of 15. His college career was postponed due to World War II when he served in the Army. After serving his country, he returned back to

Texas A&M and graduated in 1947. His career involved working with people and children when he became Assistant County Agent in Harris County. He Mason Briscoe II continued to serve as County Agent in Dewitt and Matagorda counties. Later he served as Livestock Supervisor for the entire Texas Prison System. For a short time he ran a feed mill and sold insurance before coming back to the Richmond-Rosenberg area to

Hill hired by Lamar CISD In its regular September meeting, the Lamar CISD Board of Trustees approved the hiring of Jeremy Hill as an assistant principal at Lamar Consolidated High School. Hill has a bachelor’s in Secondary English Education from the University of Wyoming and his master’s in Administration and Supervision from the University of Houston – Victoria. He has 13 years of teaching

experience in Wyoming, Fort Bend ISD and Lamar CISD. He has been a theater and speech teacher, as well as the UIL Academic Coordinator, at Lamar Jeremy Hill CHS since 2005. Hill also is on the Executive Board of the Texas Thespians, an educational theater association.

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

relocate his family and raise cattle. In 1967, he purchased Fort Bend Feed and Farm Supply which is still owned and operated by the Briscoe family. Mason still enjoys visiting with old friends from store days and showing newly hatched baby chicks to all the children. Briscoe served on the Board of Directors for the Fort Bend County Fair and as Fair President in 1967. He is a Lifetime Vice President of the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo where he served on the Commercial Steer Committee for 56 years and the Breeders Greeter Committee for over 30 years. In addition to serving as Past Chairman of the Board of the Federal Land Bank for nine years, he served on the Lamar CISD School Board for six years. He has always assisted children and helped exhibitors with information about animals, feed rations or whatever was needed. He is and has been a huge supporter of the youth of Fort Bend County by purchasing animals at the livestock auctions. Hats off to the 2010 Fair Fort Bend County Fair Honoree --- Mason Briscoe II for his years of dedication to the Fort Bend County Fair.

Submit Newsworthy items to editor_fbbj@fortbendstar.com

Mobility and safety bring new vitality to FM 359

By Barbara Magana Robertson

ong ago, FM 359 was the perfect scenic route for a drive in the country. Sprawling pastures with cattle and horses lined the rural roadside. In the early 70’s, families would make special trips to eat award winning barbecue at the iconic Swinging Door restaurant. However, job growth and master plan communities have changed the landscape of western Fort Bend County. The area is bursting with businesses and master-planned homes. Now, FM 359 is undergoing a major expansion project to help improve traffic congestion in the area. A project that many residents and businesses feel is way overdue. The construction project is transforming a 2 ½ mile stretch of FM 359 into a four lane boulevard. From US 90A to Jones Creek, FM 359 will have two lanes of traffic in each direction with a raised esplanade. The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2011. “Our goal is to enhance mobility and safety for the residents,” says James Hunt, district engineer for the Texas Department of Transportation. He has been overseeing the project since it began in April. TxDOT officials have worked hard to keep businesses in the area operating as construction is being completed. “We want to be good neighbors,” say Hunt. All businesses have been accommodated with a least one accessible driveway. And in some cases a temporary gravel driveway has been built. A turning lane has been temporarily created to help the traffic flow in and out of the subdivisions and businesses. “We have not had any problems from the construction,” says Melinda Frey, the

office manager for MDC Roofing. “It’s just a minor inconvenience but all our employees and customers have had access to our parking lot,” explains Frey. MDC roofing and other businesses in the area have been thankful that the construction has not caused a complete closure. “We have done our best to minimize the disruption and have really worked with each business,” adds Hunt. The area has seen major growth. Several new subdivisions, schools, restaurants and even a new fire station have been constructed within the past couple of years. “We see at least one or two new housing constructions every several weeks,” says Robert Haas, building official for the City of Richmond. “In the past seven years there has been major development in the area.” Pecan Grove, once the only residential subdivision in the area, is now joined with the Rio Vista, Crystal Lake Estates, and River’s Edge subdivisions. All four neighborhoods have main entrances off FM 359. “I am very fortunate to live near my job…I know traffic could be much worse,” says Frey. She adds, “My family eats out, shops and plays sports all along this area.” One new business on FM 359 is Tuesday’s Sports Bar and Dancehall. Live music and karaoke can be found there on most weekends. “The construction I think has hurt us a little bit….one of our driveways was taken away…which took access to some of our parking space,” says Kenny Burns, co-owner. “Our customers are mainly from the surrounding neighborhoods. I am really looking forward to it being completed…in the long run it will be nice.” Sandy Jones, who is owner of a massage therapy business, does warn drivers to be

careful. She says, “While driving along FM 359 in the construction area some drivers stop abruptly, so you just have to be extra careful.” FM 359 currently has 19,000 vehicles traveling along its route daily. It is predicted by the year 2030 the traffic will increase to 28,000 vehicles daily. According to TxDOT officials, 50% of the drivers on FM 359 turn to Farmer’s Road while the other 50% stays on and heads west. Construction plans for this area will give FM 359 an entire new look. The curve design will be changed to a “T” intersection. “We found the current design’s geometry does not function and the new design is safer,” says Hunt. “Whenever we can enhance additional capacity and safety… we do it.” Future projects may include widening Farmer’s road or adding an overpass at the Southern Pacific Railroad crossing where FM 359 and US highway 90 meet. For now, TxDOT is working with utility companies on the relocation of utility lines and overhead power lines. Improvements in the landscaping and architectural design along FM 359 comes under the guidance of the West Fort Bend Management District design standards. “Our goal is to continue to set a precedent for roadway enhancements that will showcase the natural beauty and economic vitality of the corridor,” says Vincent Morales, board president. Enhancements, traffic and construction seem to go together with progress and growth. Businesses and residents will reap the rewards of the development. Fort Bend County will continue to be a leader in being the place to live.

October 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

NAMES IN THE Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce names new president Fort Bend Chairman Bridget Yeung officially announced that Keri Curtis Schmidt was unanimously approved by the board of directors today to assume Louis Garvin the role of president of the Fort Bend Chamber. As one of Fort Bend County’s esteemed community leaders, Louis Garvin will retain the role and title of chief executive officer with

the 1,000 member chamber and continue to serve the Fort Bend business community. Yeung said that Keri Schmidt, who has more Keri Schmidt than 10 years of experience with the chamber and currently holds the title of vice president, is well qualified for the job. Keri has directed several of the successful signature programs. She is a recent graduate

of the United States Chamber of Commerce Institute of Organizational Management at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, their premier four-year professional development program. Prior to joining the chamber, Schmidt was senior vice president with a national bank for over 16 years and managed branch operations. Schmidt says, “I am honored and truly excited to serve as the president of the Fort Bend Chamber.”

Fort Bend County resident appointed director of HMNS at Sugar Land For a proud Fort Bend County native like Susan Buck, her city and education have always played a major part in her life. Buck has had a long- standing career as a classroom teacher and librarian within the Fort Bend Independent School District for 29 years. With Buck’s tenure in education, it was nothing less than a natural transition when she joined the Houston Museum of Natural

Science main campus in 2004 and created the Youth Education Sales Department. As the Director of Youth Education Sales, Buck has been responsible for curriculum development, promotion, scheduling and evaluation of school field trips to the Museum, consequently yielding an annual attendance of 450,000 students. To highlight Buck’s instrumental contri-

CHEMICO... Lance LaCour, president and CEO of the Katy Area EDC, says CHEMICO is rising in stature nationally and globally, and is a welcome addition to the Katy area business community. “CHEMICO is poised to experience considerable growth in the coming years, and we’re pleased and proud they’ve selected a growing community like ours as the new headquarters,” says LaCour. Raquel Benitez, Leasing Agent for Whitestone REIT, shared LaCour’s vision to find the perfect fit for CHEMICO’s new home base after learning of their impending move to the Katy Area. “We are excited that our Westgate Community met their exacting standards,” says Benitez. “At Whitestone, we welcome growth oriented entrepreneurial firms such as CHEMICO International, who thrive in our community centered business model.” CHEMICO International was founded for the purpose of creating and pro-

butions to the Houston Museum of Natural Science, she has now been appointed as Director of the Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land, a satellite facility, which has been open for almost a year. Buck, a resident of Quail Valley, continues to educate and inspire within the city of Sugar Land through new programming like “Second Saturdays.”

KOBLE CURTICE... continued from page 53

continued from page 13

viding safe water treatment products for industrial uses. The company designs safe water treatment methods for cooling towers, boilers, closed loops, chilled loop systems and water treatment bases. Comprised of a core staff of six people — including Owens, CHEMICO relies on subcontracting for much of its production. The company also maintains an innovative research and development lab to provide the highest quality products at the lowest possible cost to its clients. For the last four years, CHEMICO has held a patent on a water conservation specialty for cooling towers that has been key to the company’s rapidly growing reputation, Owens says. “We anticipate steady growth through a number of new contacts,” he says. “One thing we’ve noticed is how many people have come by to initiate contact and express interest in what we offer.”

offices in New York. In Sugar Land Town Center, Planned Community Developers leased a full floor of their new office building on Highway 6 to a local company relocating. Our Fort Bend Office has been very busy this month and that activity is carrying over into October. Although much of this activity has consisted of new service-retail and office leases, we are also working with several “new construction” clients for the first time in a while. Just as hot tubs around the NFL have put Mario’s Sunday opponents back on the field, a few more monthly doses of this type of monthly real estate activity will have me feeling a lot better about our local economic recovery. Go Texans! Kolbe M. Curtice is a licensed Texas real estate broker. He is the Managing Director of Colliers International - Fort Bend, a full service commercial brokerage company located in Sugar Land Town Square. He can be reached at 281-494-4769. H

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

Search complete new and used car inventories online - easy, simple, fast

Go to

www.FortBendAutoMarketplace.com

See some of the ads in print in the Star every week. October 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Fort Bend Business Journal

Sixth Annual Regional Infrastructure Conference October 5 Conference moves to new venue to accommodate growth

Judge Robert Hebert

Rep. Bill Callegari

James Edmonds

he Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance (CFBCA) and the organization’s Infrastructure Department, chaired by Justin Ring of Edminster Hinshaw Russ & Assoc., have just released the schedule of speakers for their Sixth Annual Fort Bend Regional Infrastructure Conference. The event, presented by S & B Infrastructure and HCSS Construction Software, will take place Tuesday, October 5 at the Marriott Hotel & Conference Center in Sugar Land Town Square at 7:30 am - 6:00 pm. Now known as one of the leading resources for updates, forecasts, technical information and project leads on area roads, highways, rail, ports, natural resources and environmental issues, and attracting some of the state’s foremost authorities on those subjects, the conference relocated to a larger venue this year in order to accommodate the high attendance demands. Ravi Yanamandala, president of Geotest Engineering, Inc., who attended in 2009 and immediately signed up to sponsor the 2010 event, enthusiastically noted that there was “a lot of good information offered, and a great opportunity for vital contacts to be made.” Three keynote speakers will anchor the event with information focused on varying aspects of infrastructure in Fort Bend and Harris counties. Leading the day with a breakfast presentation will be County Judge Robert E. Hebert, who will discuss the effects of county growth on transportation and mobility. State Representative Bill Callegari, District 132, vice chair of the House Committee on Natural Resources,

Glenn Hegar

Allen Owen

Leonard Scarcella

and also a member of the House Committee on Transportation, will discuss “Key Water Issues for the 2011 Texas Legislature”. Rounding out the day, James T. Edmonds, Chairman of the Port of Houston Authority Commission, will offer an update on the Port of Houston, with a view of things to come. Other speakers include Senator Glenn Hegar, District 18 speaking about “Transportation in Fort Bend & Beyond”; a panel discussion of Commuter Rail featuring area Mayors Allen Owen of Missouri City, Leonard Scarcella of Stafford, and Joe Gurecky of Rosenberg; Jeff Wiley, President of the Greater Fort Bend EDC providing an update on the economic forecast for Fort Bend County; Vic Suhm, with the Transportation Advocates of Texas, Inc., who will speak on resources for transportation funding; an “Ethics in Engineering” class taught by Kerry Williams, JD, PE and Julia Calnek, JD, both of Chamberlain, Hrdlicka, White, Williams & Martin LLP; Robert Adair and David Batts, with the Houston Land and Water Sustainability Forum, discussing “Low Impact Development Efforts in the Greater Houston Area”; and Alfredo Armendariz, the Regional Administrator for the U.S. EPA, Region 6, who has been invited to provide information on the federal environmental laws (not confirmed at the time of this printing). Conference attendees will receive a comprehensive conference binder, breakfast, lunch, morning and afternoon break snacks, and admittance to the cocktail reception immediately following the closing keynote

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

Joe Gurecky

Jeff Wiley

address. Professional engineers who register for continuing education credits will receive two PDH units for attending the conference, plus one additional if they select the Ethics class as a break-out session option. New this year will be a special vendor booth area where the morning and afternoon breaks will be held. Other businesses also sponsoring the symposium are: Dannenbaum Engineering Corporation; E3 Electric, Ltd.; LJA Engineering & Surveying, Inc. and Brown & Gay Engineers, Inc.; Edminster Hinshaw Russ & Associates; Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP; Del Webb and Caldwell Companies; Geotest Engineering; CivilCorp LLC; CMC Construction; AECOM; HDR/Claunch & Miller; Lina T. Ramey & Associates; Zarenkelk Engineering Services, Inc.; Allen Boone Humphries Robinson, LLP; CenterPoint Properties; Costello, Inc.; Huitt-Zollars, Inc.; IDC Engineering, Inc.; Klotz Associates; Lippke Cartwright & Roberts; McDonough Engineering; Othon Inc. Consulting Engineers; Pate Engineers, Inc.; Terracon Consultants, Inc.; Traffic Engineers, Inc., and Trendmaker Development. Limited premium sponsor opportunities are still available, with an unlimited number of general conference sponsorships and vendor booths offered. Registration for individuals has already begun, and is $150 for Chamber members and $225 for non-members. For information on sponsorships or registration, contact the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance at 281-342-5464, www. CFBCA.org or email gparker@CFBCA.org.

FOOD DRINK GUIDE

ENTERTAINMENT

Aristotle Grill The Greeks have landed in Sugar Land! Owner Hamid Panah and his staff have just opened on the corner of Hwy 6 and Hwy 59 providing the best Greek dishes in the area! Everything from appetizers to traditional Greek salads to plates specials and traditional Gyro sandwiches, this is the place for a nice, relaxed atmosphere and elegant Greek dining! Aristotle Grill also caters employee lunches, business meetings, and corporate gatherings. Their goal is to leave their guests impressed! Open 7 days, Sun-Thurs 11 am -9 pm, Fri-Sat 11 am -10 pm. 2109-B Highway 6 @ Highway 59 South, Sugar Land. 281-277-7787. $ WB AURA Restaurant Chef/Owner Frédéric Perrier brings over 30 years experience to his newest venture - AURA. In an upscale yet casually comfortable setting, Innovative American Cuisine reigns and is highlighted in the numerous Daily Specials. AURA features only the finest, freshest ingredients. From Lunch Salads & Sandwiches to Dinner with Crabcakes and Filet Au Poivre to Diver Sea Scallops with Boneless Braised Short Rib ‘Surf & Turf’ appetizers and Farm Raised Chilean Sea Bass. No need to go to Houston or into Sugar Land for truly high quality dining experience... you will easily find it at AURA (without ‘Big Restaurant’ prices!) at Township Square - Missouri City. Lunch Mon-Sat 11-2. Dinner MonThurs 5-9 and Fri-Sat 5-10. Please call for Reservations &/or Catering ~ 3400 FM 1092, 81-403-AURA (2872). $$ • WB Candelari’s Pizzeria Albert Candelari began making sausage over 50 years ago. As the years have passed the flavor remains the same, which is why Candelari’s is the “King of Sausages”! They take that delicious 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

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

Charlie’s Restaurants and Catering, Poboys and Grill Two locations in Fort Bend. Cajun home cooked food. The “special” plate is a favorite with a choice of one meat, two sides and a roll. The meat choices range from brisket, sausage, and meat loaf, to baked chicken, turkey/dressing, ham, salisbury steak and spaghetti/meatballs. Home made desserts are a favorite feature. Catering is available for large to small functions, banquets, corporate or organization luncheons/dinners. 4719 Lexington @ Dulles, 281-499-0808 and 1250 Texas Parkway, 281-4992233. $ continues...

October 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

Chef for You Offers take out dinners prepared from scratch by professional chefs. Online ordering; Customized Catering Menus Available; Corporate Catering for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. Homemade Cakes, Cookies, and Brownies; Soups and Salads. New menus offered each week at www.chef4u.net • 9920 Highway 90-A, Suite B-260, Sugar Land • 281-313-CHEF (2433). $ Fernando’s Latin Cuisine We are pleased to announce the arrival of Fernando’s Latin Cuisine-An exotic culinary adventure! Started by, Fernando Echeverria, the same owner of Los Andes by the Compact Center in Houston-Another wonderful Latin American restaurant. Fernando’s Latin Cuisine is located in the same building where Ruth’s Chris used to be. Featured dishes include Empanadas appetizer, Fileton, (Filet mignon) and Asada Y Camarones, Casually called the surf and turf. 14135 Southwest Freeway, in Sugar Land. 281-494-9087. wwww.fernandosrestaurants.com. $$ • FB Hickory Barn BAR-B-Q The Kiddy Brothers came to Houston with great BBQ on their minds. The first BBQ restaurant opened in 1953. Since then the family owned and operated business has been serving up great BBQ. Although times have changed, our idea of great BBQ hasn’t. Come by and see us. Catering available. • 11534 Wilcrest @ W. Belfort. 281-530-9382. $ Incredible Pizza Company All-You-Can-Eat Buffet is Made Fresh, From Scratch, Every Day. Enjoy 30 varieties of Pizza, 3 Styles of Pizza Crust, Meatballs & Spaghetti, Piping Hot Baked Potatoes with All the Toppings, Soups, Fresh Pasta with a Choice of Sauces, a Salad Bar Featuring Over 80 Items Including 9 Different Homemade Salad Dressings, and Desserts. Pies, Cobblers, Bread Pudding, Cinnamon Rolls, Ice Cream, Cookies & Much More for only $6.99 per person. Corporate Events, Team Building, Lock-ins, Birthday Parties, and Every Day Fun! In addition to the Incredible Food, the 20,000 Square Feet of Play Space is a Blast for Kids and Kids at Heart. www. ipcsugarland.com Open Sunday-Thursday 11am-9pm, Friday & Saturday 11am-10pm, 3412 Highway 6 South @ Williams Trace, 281-313-0631. $ J & L Café Homestyle Cookin’ like Grandma used to make! Joy Smith and Paul Jordan are back, and they’re cooking up a delightful assortment of homemade dishes to satisfy the heartiest of appetites. Since they opened their new restaurant, they’ve been serving up family recipes handed down for 3 generations. Stop by J & L Café and enjoy Chicken and Dumplings, Smothered Oxtails, Meatloaf, Ribs, Fried Catfish, Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes, Okra, and Cornbread Dressing, to name just a few menu items and daily specials. The assortment of Desserts includes Peach Cobbler, Cheesecake and Banana Pudding, all guaranteed to make your taste buds smile! Joy Smith, co-proprietor, worked as Personal Chef to Former Houston Juneor Lee Brown for many years. Whole Cornish Hens are available on Sundays. Breakfast served Tuesday-Saturday 6-9am, Open for Lunch and Dinner Tuesday-Sunday, Closed Mondays. 1110 FM 2234 on the border of Stafford & Missouri City. 281-499-9895. $

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

Karl’s At The Riverbend Romantic Dining in the Country, across the creek from a horse farm. Swiss Chef Karl Camenzind’s menu features Angus steaks, Prime Rib, Wienerschnitzel, Trout Almondine and other fresh fish, Rack of Lamb, Steak and other wild game, Atkins specials, a budget weeknight menu offered along with the regular menu, plus a wonderful Sunday Brunch Buffet. Company Luncheons and Rehearsal Dinners invited. Open TuesSat for Dinner and Sunday Brunch 5011 FM 723 Richmond 281-238-9300 www.karlsrb.com Read our reviews at www.b4-u-eat.com. $$ • FB La Magia Cafe & Pizza If you are looking for casual dinning with an easy atmosphere then La Magia is just the place for you! La Magia Café & Pizza recipes and menu are based on almost 30 years of Italian cooking. The dishes served at La Magia are prepared and cooked in the traditional Italian way, using fresh ingredients and herbs, giving them a home cooked flavor since 1980. In addition to authentic Italian cooking, La Magia offers popular American dishes. The pizzas are made with medium crust and cooked in a stone oven. This cooking process gives the dough a slow rise, for a true pizza flavor. All meals are prepared with extra virgin olive oil and the freshest ingredients and herbs. Open 7 days, Sun-Thurs 11 am -9 pm, Fri-Sat 11 am -10 pm. Lunch menu specials Mon – Fri. 3699 Highway 6 @ Settlers Way Blvd, Sugar Land. 281-565-0366. $ WB Las Haciendas Mexican Bar & Grill Santos Escobar and his brother Ascension Escobar serve up dozens of heaping traditional gourmet Mexican plates. Lunch Specials run weekdays from 11am - 3pm. Great margaritas, fajitas and much more. Catering available as well as a party room for private parties. • 12821 Southwest Freeway. 281-240-3060. $ • FB Lupitas Mexican Restaurant Jaime and Lupe Garcia have lived in Fort Bend for 36 years. Twentythree of those years have been spent in the restaurant business. If you want authentic Mexican food made from only the freshest ingredients and at a reasonable price, go to Lupitas Mexican Restaurant formerly Pico De Gallo Mexican Restaurant. The Garcias continually concentrate on customer satisfaction. That includes the quality and freshness of their food as well as the family atmosphere of their restaurant. Dine-In, Take-out, and Catering available. 3121 Highway 6, Sugar Land • Call 281-265-6556. $ • WB Mangola’s Fine Italian Restaurant Serving fine Italian food to Southwest Houston and Fort Bend Country for more than 20 years. Conveniently located at 11786 S. Wilcrest @ Highway 59 S. Open for Lunch and Dinner 7 Days a week. Check out our website www.mangolasrestaurant.com. Call 281-498-6790 for reservations or to schedule your special event. Mantra Fine Indian Cuisine Discover India with exotic spices and aromatic flavors that will awaken your taste buds and lift you off your feet, we will make you feel like royalty. Mantra Fine Indian Cuisine offers Lunch Buffet and To-Go lunch options,

that’s in your budget and leave you to come back for more. Mantra caters to all from spicy hot to mild flavors. We prepare our meals fresh and offer a wide selection of healthy choices. We have full menu and full bar and you can enjoy the evening out on our patio with your family or friends. Mantra also offers special catering promotions for parties and formal functions or any event any size, host in our restaurant or choosing of your choice. Hours of Operation: Monday through Thursday, Friday to Sunday, Lunch: 11a.m. to 2:30p.m. Lunch: 11a.m. to 2:30p.m. Dinner: 5:30pm to 10p.m. Dinner: 5:30pm to 11p.m.Come visit us at 15295 Southwest Freeway off of Williams Trace exit. For more information, contact us at 281-325-0071 or visit www.mantraofsugarland.com. $$ • FB Old Hickory Inn Barbecue More than 40 years in business in the Houston and Fort Bend area, Old Hickory Inn Barbecue is famous for their Old Fashion Hickory Smoked Barbecue and numerous Homemade Side Dishes, made fresh daily. They are available to cater your next event, for up to 3000 guests. In addition to great Barbecue, they make an awesome Gyro (Greek wrap featuring beef & lamb), and feature fruit cobbler, cream pies, rice pudding and cheesecake for dessert A casual dining experience in 3 convenient locations, with a drive-through window at the Highway 6 location. Open 7 days a week, Sunday-Thursday from 11am-9pm, and Friday & Saturday 11am-9:30pm. 3334 F.M. 1092 @ Hwy 6 Missouri City 281-499-8904 / 8000 Hwy 6 @ Beechnut 281-983-5020 / 5427 S. Braeswood @ Chimney Rock 713-7238908. $ • WB

Outback Steakhouse Inspired by Australia’s spirit of adventure, Outback Steakhouse has been an innovator in the culinary world by creating big, bold flavors using only the freshest ingredients. Voted #1 Best Steak in the 2009 Zagat Survey of National Full-Service Restaurant chains, Outback’s mission is to provide high quality fresh dishes at affordable prices. Explore Outback’s new menu with 15 meals under $15 including new choices, classic favorites and down under prices starting at $9.95. Our favorites include the Bloomin’ Onion®, Outback Special Sirloin with Grilled Shrimp on the Barbie, Honey Dijon Chicken with Sweet Potato Fries and much more! The local Proprietor is Anthony Antonidis. Open Mon.- Thur. 4-10 pm, Fri. 4-11 pm, Sat. 3-11 pm, Sun 11 am-9:30 pm. Located at 15253 Southwest Freeway, (Off Highway 59 and Williams Trace Exit) in Sugar Land, Texas. 281-9804329. $ FB Panda Garden Panda Garden Restaurant, the three times winner for Best Oriental Restaurant in Fort Bend County, located at 3563 Highway 6 in Kroger Center, provides a warm, casual environment to best service all diners. The goal of our restaurant is to offer 100% satisfactory to the customers with variety selection of popular Hunan Cuisine. “We offer fresh, made from scratch meals that is unforgettably delicious!” Manager Kenny adds. The restaurant offers accommodations for small group meetings and wonderful party tray for catering to the near by businesses and schools. Panda Garden continues... October 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

is open 7 days a week on Mon. – Sat.: 11a.m. – 10 p.m. and Sun. 11a.m. – 9:30p.m. Delivery is available everyday with a min. of $15.00 purchase. A lunch special is offered daily as well as the full regular menu offerings. 3563 Hwy 6 @ Williams Trace, 281-265-0303. $ • WB Pappa La Rosa Flying Pizza and Restaurant Pappa La Rosa Flying Pizza and Restaurant is a warm and inviting family owned and operated restaurant where pizza, pasta and subs are available on the menu, with daily specials. Catering, a private party room and birthday packages are also available. Dine in or take out. Open for lunch and dinner Tuesday – Sunday. • 16227 Lexington Boulevard, Sugar Land • Call 281313-3500. $ • WB Post Oak Grill Restaurant & Bar The Rios Family invites you to come and experience the same quality, ambiance and service that you have at the original Post Oak Gill. Join us for a wonderful culinary adventure featuring fine center-cut steaks, chops, fresh seafood, soups, sandwiches, salads, and outstanding wine selection. Open lunch & dinner - Monday-Thursday 11:00-9:00pm, Friday & Saturday 11:00-10:00pm. Happy Hour 3:00-6:00pm. 4524 Highway 6, Sugar Land • Call 281-491-2901. www.postoakgrillsugarland.com $$ • FB Sandy McGee’s Restaurant & Catering The “BEST” soups, gourmet sandwiches and salads in TEXAS. Casual Dining in Historic Downtown Richmond. Sandy McGee’s has a sterling

reputation for “FRESH”. Mon.-Fri. 10am-9pm and Sat.-Sun. 10am-3pm. 314 Morton St., Richmond. 281-344-9393. $ Tacone Flavor Grill Fresh. Fun. Handmade. Unique Environment. Tacone is a Casual Quick Serve Restaurant with gourmet flavor at not so gourmet prices. Rated Best Gourmet Wrap Restaurant by Restaurant and Resorts. This franchise based company from Los Angeles, CA has unique gourmet wraps, hot pannini sandwiches, salads, and smoothies. There is a BBQ Chicken Quesadillas waiting for you at Tacone. Make your other senses jealous! Sugar Land Town Square, 2228 Texas Drive, Sugar Land, 77479; 281-313-2300, fax: 281-313-2305. www.tacone.com. $ Tornado Burger Home of the famous Spicy Burger. Find out why Houston’s largest newspaper raves about their burgers! Read the review by the Houston Chronicle at: http://blogs.chron.com/cookstour/archives/2007/09/ burgerology.html. They make their burgers with fresh-ground chuck, and even their buns are handmade! The French fries are fresh Idaho potatoes cut right in front of you and fried to order! They compete with the multinationals with fresh food at low prices and very fast service. Their Philly Cheesesteaks are as good as Pat’s if not better! Open Mon. - Sat. 11am-10pm, Sun. 11am-9pm. Dine-In or Drive-Thru. 505 Murphy Rd (FM 1092) just south of Hwy 90 in Stafford, 281-403-FAST (3278). $

is looking for YOUR CLUB If you want your club’s information published in our newcomer guide, please e-mail us today. send your e-mail to editor@fortbendstar.com

Subject Line: Needs to have “Club’s or “Association” or “Organization” We are going to press and want to make sure every club is included. 64

Fort Bend Business Journal • October 2010

Call:

281-690-4200

10% Off

Everything!

Oct 1st & 2nd

Your Neighborhood Boutique Wine & Spirits One Stop Shop Come on in Monday-Saturday 10am til 9pm Sorry, we’re closed on Sunday. 16535 Lexington Boulevard • Suite 150 • Sugar Land www.topshelfsugarland.com 281.240.WINE (9463)

Grand Opening Friday October 1st Ad 7.25 X 10.75.indd 1

9/23/10 8:08:19 PM

You’ve spent hours on the phone together — and months planning a girl’s get-away. Now do something else together — schedule a mammogram. State-of-the-art BreaSt CanCer DiagnoStiCS: Digital Mammography Breast Ultrasound Breast MRI MRI Guided Biopsy Ultrasound Biopsy Stereotactic Biopsy A special thank you to the Fort Bend Junior Service League members who are the faces of our Women’s Health Campaign.

Reminding a friend to schedule a mammogram could save her life. According to The National Cancer Institute, the most effective ways to detect breast cancer early are getting a high-quality screening mammogram and having a clinical breast exam on a regular basis. You can rest assured that at the Breast Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital you and your friend will receive the high-quality mammogram you need. It is the only full-service center of its kind in Fort Bend County that women can rely on for dedicated breast radiology expertise, state-of-the-art technology and compassionate care.

Call 281-242-PINK (7465) to schedule a mammogram at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

LEADING MEDICINE® Spine BreastCenter Center

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