October 2013 - The Business Lifestyle Magazine Digital Edition by Fort Bend Business Journal

Volume 31 • No. 10

THE BUSINESS LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

October 2013

MARKETING TOOL KIT FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS

INSIDE FEATURES / STORIES

Oil & Gas Industry Asian-Owned Businesses Braman Winery - Where To Be Seen AccessHealth - Your Community Health Center Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter Data Beat Information

4.95

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

Texas Direct Auto Joins Walk MS 2013 Helping the National Multiple Sclerosis Society Reach a World Free from MS

exas Direct Auto, the largest independent dealership in the world, is proud to help support the National MS Society as they strive to find a cure for this disabling disease, which affects the central nervous system. “We at Texas Direct Auto are excited to sponsor and unite with local Sugar Land resident, Raquel Smith, at the Walk MS to be held on October 26, 2013 in Sugar Land Memorial Park,” said Jessica DeMarr, Director of Business Development. Raquel was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis on April 1, 2013. “Initially, this diagnosis was difficult to handle emotionally and physically. I had so many different stages of grief, but my biggest challenge was how I would tell my three beautiful boys and would they understand. I am now determined to join the cause to end this disease. Today I am living with multiple sclerosis, but with your help and support, over 68,000 Texans affected by multiple sclerosis and I can look to the future of a world free of MS,” stated Raquel Smith. The National MS Society addresses the challenges of each person affected by MS. To fulfill this mission, the So-

ciety funds cutting-edge research, drives change through advocacy, facilitates professional education, collaborates with MS organizations around the world, and provides programs and services designed to help people with MS and their families move forward with their lives. In 2012 alone, the Society invested $43 million to support 350 research projects around the world while providing programs and services that assisted more than one million people. The Society is dedicated to achieving a world free of MS, and Texas Direct Auto is eager to help. For more information on how you can help or participate, please visit www.walkmsTexas.org.

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Editor’s Preview by Sharon Wallingford

Fall is Here! Sharon Wallingford

Barbara J. Carlson

scan with you smart phone to launch website

ctober has finally arrived so we can begin enjoying more outdoor activities, events, and travels. Even though it is becoming more difficult to do with 627,000 area residents traveling and infrastructure projects being addressed in all directions. To have a better understanding of how to better maneuver your way go to www.fortbendcountytx.gov, click on the link entitled 2013 Mobility Bond Election, there is map and a link to the projects with descriptions. This month our cover features Blue Jungle Marketing. Their purpose is to help you gain business success. Special features also include the oil & gas industry, where to be seen, and Asianowned businesses with articles like Knowing the Power of the Customer, What’s your Retirement “Contingency Plan?”, do you have one? You won’t want to miss a page learning about AccessHealth; Fort Bend County’s reliable health center with locations around the county. For a quiet, cozy, get together with friends for a glass of wine visit Braman Winery located on FM 359 in Richmond. The Fort Bend County Fair is upon us once again and this year the Fair is hosting the 2nd Annual Exceptional Rodeo. Bring your family and friends out to cheer on the children

and young adults of Arc of Fort Bend County on Friday, October 4, 2013, at 10:00 a.m. in the O.D. Tucker Arena. The Exceptional Rodeo pairs intellectually and physically challenged children and young adults with professional cowboys, cowgirls, and volunteers for a fun-filled, non-competitive, rewarding rodeo experience for all. The Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Discussion on Water Funding with Jace Houston, General Manager for the San Jacinto River Authority. Houston will talk about Proposition 6 that establishes a State Water Implementation Fund for Texas. The breakfast will be held at the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, October 10, 2013, from 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Register today at www.FortBendChamber.com or contact David Crowl at (281) 491-2497 or david@fortbendcc.org. Also, on October 10th is the Rosenberg Railroad Gala with the theme of “The Circus is Coming to Town.” The annual quilt fundraiser for Oak Bend Hospital will be held on October 17. Keep the cash register ringing. Sharon K. Wallingford

The Editorial Advisory Board

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

Becky Munnell President and CEO Blue Jungle Marketing

Jacqueline Baly President and CEO Baly Projects, LLC

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

Contact:

Dee Koch Grant Officer The George Foundation

Tim Stubenrouch President First Community Bank

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

October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

John Whitmore Whitmore Company

Barbara J. Carlson Barbara@FortBendBusinessJournal.com 281.690.4204 - Direct

FORT BEND

281.782.2111

Top Producer

281.798.3853

Jeanne Gregory

Hal Elrod

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Keller Williams Realty

Denise & Greg Houser

RE/MAX Southwest

713.203.9975

Realtor, CRS, GRI, CDPE

RE/MAX Southwest

The House’r Team

Grand Parkway Realty

832.274.7663

Sherry 832.978.5936 Prime Properties Mike 281.236.9726

Realtor

Realm Realty Professionals

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Jacki Pauley

Realtor, GRI, CBR

RE/MAX Southwest

Mike Harness & Sherry Miles

Anita Milne Sugar Land’s Top Producer 2012

Stephen Rentz

Denise Hulse

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281.413.9732

Nancy Benevides

Cathy Simeone

Hank Mann Mary & Kelly

The Stewart Team

Realtor, GRI, SRES, CDPE, PMN

RE/MAX Fine Properties

713.582.1654

Top Producers RE/MAX Southwest

Realtor • 30 + Years

Beard Realty Group

281.414.8400

281.980.6849

Realtor RE/MAX Fine Properties

Selling Ft. Bend Finest Homes Coldwell Banker United

Rick Wells

Top Producer

RE/MAX Fine Properties

Arlene Rolsen

Terri Kurkjian

Real Estate All-Stars

Realtor

Champions Real Estate Group

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NTENTS Volume 31 • Number 10 • October 2013

COVER STORY

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

Blue Jungle Marketing Marketing Tool Kit For Business Success pg.

PUBLISHER

Special Features Oil & Gas Industry....................................................... pg Where To Be Seen...................................................... pg Asian-Owned Businesses.......................................... pg

Michael Fredrickson

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER / SALES Barbara J. Carlson

12 16 22

Inside Stories

ACCOUNTING Lisa Long

EDITOR Sharon Wallingford

ART DIRECTOR

Back to Basics: The Power of Knowing The Customer........................................ 6 What’s Your Retirement “Contingency Plan”?......................................................... 8 AccessHealth is Fort Bend’s Reliable Heath Center...........................................10 Hometrust Mortgage & Candace Jo Cagle — Your Logical Choice..............20 26 Annual Rangerette Market Day............................................................................29 Red is Kim Expands with SHOP.COM.....................................................................36 Photo ID Now Required For Voting In Texas.........................................................39 UHV School of Business Administration Proudly Serves Fort Bend................... 40 New Formed Technology Incubator — West Houston.......................................42 Let Your Business Be Seen It’s The Expectation Today.....................................53

Joey Belleza

GRAPHIC DESIGNER / WEB Jan Carlo Arcillas

Departments Newsworthy................................................................... 37-39 Names in the New............................................................... 44 Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter.............. 45-52

ON THE COVER Blue Jungle Marketing Marketing Tool Kit For Business Success

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

October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

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

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

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

Back to Basics: The power of knowing the customer By Jay Rogers Chairman and CEO IBC Bank-Houston

hroughout my four decades of banking experience, I have seen amazing innovations – new ways to serve customers faster, new products to help families and businesses succeed – but the one constant in this ever-changing industry is that it all comes back to the basic principle of strong relationships. From mobile and online banking to text and email, customers can reach bankers with little to no face-to-face interaction. While the ease of communication through technology has revolutionized the industry, a strong professional relationship with our customers is still at the root of the business. Truly getting to know a person, making a phone call or scheduling a meeting, benefits not only the banker and his or her ability to serve customers, it also increases the customer’s satisfaction. Customers who trust their banker can in turn feel confident

that the recommended services and products will best fit their unique situation. “At IBC Bank it is our top priority to ‘Do More’ for our customers, and Jay Rogers establishing that personal connection ensures we can give them meaningful advice and services,” said Jeff Samples, President of IBC Bank-Houston. “We have three branches in Fort Bend County and at all Jeff Samples three branches IBC Bank employees live and work in the community that they serve. They take getting to know their customers to another level.” Taking the time to build the relationship proves to customers that we are listening and are here to help them prosper. In fact, 82.9 percent of customers with a positive banking experience feel that their banks have good knowledge of their needs,

according to the Capegemini and Efma, 2013 World Retail Banking Report. “IBC Bank has been incredible to work with,” said Scott Weaver of Rubicon Realty Group. “Although Jeff is not technically a part of the Rubicon Realty Group, he makes us feel like he is just as committed to our team as he is to IBC Bank. He takes the time to understand the core of our business and finds just the right financial solutions.” IBC Bank–Houston is a division of International Bancshares Corporation (NASDAQ: IBOC), an $11.6 billion multi-bank financial holding company headquartered in Laredo, Texas, with 216 facilities and more than 320 ATMs serving 88 communities in Texas and Oklahoma. IBC Bank-Houston has been serving the area since 1997 and has a retail branch network of 19 locations. More information is available at www.ibc.com. Visit us on our YouTube channel, IBCBankWeDoMore. MEMBER FDIC / INTERNATIONAL BANCSHARES CORPORATION.

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Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

What’s your retirement “contingency plan”?

ou probably have thought about what you’d like to do during your retirement years. But all your plans probably depend, to at least some extent, on your financial situation. What happens if you reach the age at which you wish to retire and you just don’t have the money you thought you’d have? If this occurs, it’s time for “Plan B.” What does that look like? Here are a couple of possibilities: 8

October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

SEE BELOW TO FIND THE LOCAL EDWARD JONES OFFICE NEAR YOU

SUGAR LAND

Paul J Matatall 15510 Lexington Blvd Ste L 281-980-6610

From top left to right: Jonathan Hoegemeyer, Jim Hanks, Richard Patton, Paul Matatall. Bottom left to right: Dalyn Hoegemeyer and Sandra Harrell.

• Continue working. If you like your job, you may not mind working an extra year or so. You’ll be bringing in more income and contributing more to your 401(k) or other retirement account — and, perhaps almost as importantly, you may be able to avoid tapping into these retirement accounts, thus giving them more time to potentially grow. (However, once you turn 701/2, you’ll need to begin taking withdrawals from your 401(k) and a traditional IRA.) But if you are really not enamored with the idea of working any longer, you might find that even the ability to “beef up” your retirement plans for another couple of years isn’t much consolation. • Adjust your retirement lifestyle. It’s pretty simple: If you don’t save as much as you had planned for retirement, you probably can’t do all the things you wanted to do as a retiree. For example, you may not be able to travel as much, or pursue your hobbies to the extent you’d like. Clearly, you’d like to avoid these “retirement contingency plans.” To do so, though, you’ll need to take steps well before you retire. And the most important move you can make may be to contribute as much as you can possibly afford to your IRA and your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan. During the last several years before you wish to retire, you may be in a strong position to “max out” on these plans because, at this stage of your life, your income may be at its highest point, your children may

be grown and you may even have “retired” your mortgage. If you still have money left with which to invest, you may want to look at other tax-advantaged vehicles that can be used for retirement. But while it’s important to put in as much as possible to your retirement accounts, you need to do more than that — you also must put the money in the right investments within these accounts. Your exact investment mix should be based on your individual risk tolerance and time horizon, but, as a general rule, these investments must provide you with the growth potential you’ll need to accumulate sufficient resources for retirement. Of course, as you know, investments move up and down. You can’t prevent this, but you’ll certainly want to reduce the effects of volatility as much as possible when you enter retirement. Consequently, during your final working years, you may need to adjust your retirement accounts by shifting some of your assets (though certainly not all) from growth-oriented vehicles to incomeproducing ones. It’s a good idea to have contingency plans in place for virtually every endeavor in life — and paying for your retirement years is no different. But if you can make the right moves to avoid the contingency plans in the first place, then so much the better.

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Richard J Patton II, AAMS® 9029 Hwy 6 Suite 130 281-778-6499 MISSOURI CITY

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This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

AccessHealth is Fort Bend’s reliable health center

Carol Edwards Chief Executive Officer

Cindy Reaves Director of Marketing and Development

ith so much uncertainty related to the health care industry it is good to know that AccessHealth will be here to meet the needs of the Fort Bend community. Having been in business for over 37 years, AccessHealth (formerly Fort Bend Family Health Center), has continuously evolved to meet the needs of the community we serve. With a mission to provide quality health care that is affordable to everyone, AccessHealth accepts most major insurance plans, Medicare, Medicaid, Children’s Health Insurance Plans and for those that are uninsured, AccessHealth operates on a sliding fee scale. The sliding fee scale provides discounted services for those 200% below the poverty level; which amounts to just a little over $47,000 annual income for a family of four. This encompasses at least 28% of the total population of Fort Bend County. In November of 2012, as part of a rebranding initiative, Fort Bend Family Health Center began doing business as

AccessHealth; which more accurately describes the mission of the organization to the community. “We feel that the name is much more representative of what we provide to the communities we serve. Access to health care is so important and we provide that access to both our clientele with insurance and those who qualify for our services at a reduced rate,” stated Carol Edwards, Chief Executive Officer. Since becoming CEO of AccessHealth,

MISSION AccessHealth is dedicated to excellence in providing integrated health care services to improve the quality of life in the communities it serves.

October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

Carol Edwards has made it a priority to increase awareness of the organization, constantly mindful that the organization cannot help those who do not know what is available to them. AccessHealth provides adult and children primary health care, women’s services, behavioral health services, chronic illness management and dental services in Fort Bend County. Family practice medicine is provided in Brookshire. AccessHealth administers and operates 12 WIC (Women, Infants and Children) sites in five counties including Fort Bend, Austin, Brazoria, Colorado and Wharton. The largest of these facilities is located in Rosenberg. The WIC Program is a nutrition program that helps pregnant women, new mothers, and young children eat well, learn about nutrition, and stay healthy. WIC provides nutrition education and counseling and nutritious foods to low-income women, infants, and children up to the age of five. AccessHealth is pleased to be an approved Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), meeting quality measures and exceeding the very stringent guidelines. Our board certified provider staff is dedicated to providing excellent care to all of our patients. AccessHealth has a team of qualified and certified individuals who are available to assist a family or small business in understanding what resources are available and how to sign up for the Health Care Marketplace once this option is available. Providing quality, convenient health care is the mission of AccessHealth. For more information call (281) 633-3169 or visit www.myaccesshealth.org.

Family Medicine â&#x20AC;˘ Pediatric Medicine Chronic Illness Management â&#x20AC;˘Behavioral Health Assistance Obstetrics and Gynecology Dental Services - (available in Stafford) AccessHealth is now offering co-payments ranging from $5-40 for those patients who qualify for our sliding fee scale services. Medicare patients who are eligible may have those co-payments waived or discounted.

For Appointments 281.342.1746 www.myaccesshealth.org

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

SPECIAL FEATURE - OIL & GAS INDUSTRY

Source Power & Gas – continues to exceed its retail electric customers’ expectations

f you haven’t heard of Source Power & Gas, then let us reintroduce you. Back in May, we introduced them as a company “Driven to Make a Difference in Retail Electricity.” Source Power & Gas (Source) is a retail electricity provider that serves residential and commercial markets throughout all deregulated areas in Texas. Since May, Source has doubled its customer base in Texas and they will continue to expand into several additional states next year. Source’s growth, in part, is fueled by their passion to utilize technology to bring their goods and services to their customers, so they are proud to announce the launch of their online enrollment portal for small commercial customers. “We are continually exploring new ways to increase efficiencies to bring the best value to our customers and we believe this is a great example of a win-win situation for our customers and our company,” says John Werner, President of Source.

“

Source [is] proud to announce the launch of their online enrollment portal for small commercial customers.

”

Many retail electric providers offer the ability for a residential customer to enroll online, but this has not been the case for small commercial customers. So Source asked, why not offer this for small business customers as well? Utilizing proprietary technology, Source did just that – with the launch of the small commercial enrollment

(l-r) Qadir Khan and John Werner of Source Power & Gas.

flow, these customers now have the ability to enroll their business online quickly and efficiently, just as residential customers do. “In the past, sales channels such as ‘feet on the street’ or call centers have been utilized to acquire these customers, but these sales channels cause complaints and are expensive, so marketing to them online makes sense. We’re offering something unique for this customer class – the ability to chose an electric plan and enroll online anytime, day or night, directly with the retailer,” says Werner.

You can find out more about Source Power & Gas by visiting www.SPGEnergy.com or by calling (888) 557-0065 for electric supply for your home or (888) 317-7015 for electric supply for your business.

If you’re wondering why the same idea doesn’t apply to large commercial customers – there’s good reason. “There are too many variables involved in pricing large commercial customers; with smaller customers we just don’t have the variability. For the larger customers, Source does offer customized solutions uniquely tailored to the specific needs of the business. In addition to the customized quote, we provide an assigned account manager to answer all of their questions and help manage their account. All large customers don’t need this kind of attention, but some do, and we’ve been successful meeting our customers’ needs, whatever they may be,” adds Qadir Khan, Source’s Chief Operating Officer.

“

We’re offering something unique for this customer class – the ability to chose an electric plan and enroll online anytime, day or night, directly with the retailer, says Werner.

”

The passion to continually improve their product and service offerings has resulted in a whole suite of options tailored to all customer classes. Whether a large business or small, homeowner or renter, Source Power & Gas has the right option for you. Add local customer service and years of experience in the business and you’ve got the perfect combination. Enroll today at www.spgenergy.com!

October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

SPECIAL FEATURE - OIL & GAS INDUSTRY

At Source Power & Gas, we are prepared to earn your business by saving you money on your electricity costs and helping you find the products and services right for you. Contact us today!

LOOKING FOR RESIDENTIAL SERVICE? WE DO THAT, TOO!

PUCT# 10206 Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

Making an imaging appointment is easy with Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s new online scheduling system

eep forgetting to call about scheduling your outpatient imaging exam such as a mammogram, MRI, CT, ultrasound, etc.? Thanks to Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s new online scheduling system, making an appointment just became a whole lot easier. Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital has unveiled its new user-

Another wAy we’re leAding medicine: introducing dr. tArriK ZAid Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is pleased to welcome Dr. Tarrik Zaid to Houston Methodist Gynecologic Oncology Associates. Dr. Zaid has extensive training and experience in gynecologic cancer, including the completion of a fellowship in gynecologic oncology. Dr. Zaid joins the experts at Houston Methodist Gynecologic Oncology Associates in providing compassionate, individualized care for the treatment of uterine, ovarian, cervical and other female reproductive system cancers. This team of leading physicians is supported by the state-of-the-art technology and caring, knowledgeable staff at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

Call 281.275.0880 today to sChedule an appointment.

Medical Office Building Three 16605 Southwest Freeway, Suite 450 Sugar Land, Texas 77479 281. 275 . 0880 methodistsugarlanddocs.com

October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

friendly online scheduling tool for patients. The new system makes it possible for patients to view available appointments, select one that fits their schedule and confirm their appointment with just a few clicks. “There are many people who have limited access to a telephone during the day for personal calls, or they continually forget to call because of hectic lifestyles,” said Chris Siebenaler, Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, Chief Executive Officer. “Our new online system gives everyone the freedom to go online at any time of the day or night – including weekends and holidays – and make their appointment quickly and easily.” The system is accessible from the Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital website. Patients can go online at houstonmethodist.org/sugarland and click the “Appointments & Online Scheduling” button on the right side to access appointment times. The new system provides pertinent information about the appointment and offers reminder emails regarding the appointment. “Making it more convenient for our patients to schedule diagnostic tests such as mammograms, MRI, CT, ultrasound, etc. is just one of the many ways that we are using technology to make scheduling appointments easy,” said Siebenaler. For more information or to schedule, visit houstonmethodist. org/sugarland and click the “Appointments & Online Scheduling” button on the right side of the screen.

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SPECIAL FEATURE - WHERE TO BE SEEN

Braman Winery – cozy, wine tasting... and so much more

f you haven’t spent an evening at the Braman Winery, conveniently located off of FM 359 in Richmond, you are truly missing out! Spacious, warm and an Italian/European flare are words that have been uttered from its loyal customers. The parking lot is spacious and the warm, beige stucco with excellent lighting creates a unique ambiance. Braman Winery has so much to offer its Fort Bend residents with its very own tasting room, private party room to book your holiday/corporate/birthday parties, local artist and ladies night, its very own year-round Christmas store and even open mic night! There is something for everyone and “the place” to be seen at whether you have a private event hosted at Braman Winery or come out to meet new friends. Braman’s Tasting Room is open every Tuesday from 2:00-9:00 pm; Friday and Saturday from Noon-midnight and again on Sunday from noon-5:00 p.m. Wednesdays are for the extrovert who wants to partake in our open mic night. It’s a

fun, festive and delightful evening! Thursdays we offer the opportunity for our local musicians to share their talent. We also offer Ladies Night every Thursday evening. Friday and Saturday evening is our live music entertainment. We have a packed house, so come out early to get a seat! The first of every month we offer our Sip & Shop events. This is a great time to check out our wine boutique for that special person in your life, your upcoming holiday gifts and entertaining or even that special gift for yourself. If you don’t have time to stop by every month, we offer online shopping through our newly updated wine store. Due to numerous requests, we have added our “Gourmet Wine Club” that gives our customers special discounts, early bird shopping opportunities on our new wines, and even a 20% in-store discount! All you have to do is join us at bramanwine.com or sign up when you’re here enjoying a glass of wine with us. It’s that simple! Braman Winery’s newest addition is its very own colorful, warm and inviting yearround Christmas store for all of you Christmas

October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

SPECIAL FEATURE - WHERE TO BE SEEN

lovers that enjoy shopping early! The Christmas Store features such companies as RAZ, Demdaco, Craig Bachman Imports, Mud-Pie, and so much more. All displays are for sale! The Christmas store’s cozy and welcoming room can also be booked for a private party, equipped with a bar. Let us design custom gift baskets for all your gift giving needs too! Braman Winery is excited to announce its newest expansion that will be taking place in the next year. “We love it here and the people have been so supportive!” Joe Braman, Owner, exclaims. “We love our regulars and love it when we see new faces, too! Sharing the Braman Winery story and then given the chance to show people wines from all over the world are fun and enjoyable. We now have wines from Texas, California, New Mexico, Spain and Greece,” Braman continues. Chris Caldwell is Braman Winery’s winemaker. Caldwell enjoys the entire process of grape growing, to winemaking all the way to marketing. Caldwell is a true asset to Braman Winery and has brought the winemaking process to a new level. With the addition of Caldwell, Braman Winery has decided to embark on an 18, 000 square foot building, which will house a state-of-the-art winery with a winemaking facility, tasting room, barrel room for party rentals and wine dinners,

outdoor pavilions, wine boutique and a live music venue. “We are just thrilled about the expansion! So much so that we are adding Braman Brewing Co. to the Braman Brands family.” Ashly Kubicek, VP/Marketing Director exclaims. More on the Brewing Co will come later,” Kubicek teases. Mr. Braman is truly excited about this new venture and promises to make this a destination location like no other! Book your holiday parties early with us to secure available dates and offer your clients, coworkers and friends a memorable experience! Join our newsletter today at bramanwine. com for all of our upcoming events and special discounts! 3333 FM 359, Richmond, Texas

281-762-1375 www.BramanWine.com

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

Joe is “Everybody’s Friend”

Joe Rangel, Founder and Owner of Allegience Roofing.

oe, the wind and hail damage expert, is known throughout Fort Bend as “Everybody’s Friend.” It’s that time of the year again…hurricane season, torrential rains, wind and severe hail damage may be wrapping its wrath across Fort Bend County. Get to know your “go-to” guy before the damage occurs, who is known throughout Fort Bend as “Everybody’s Friend.” Who doesn’t know Joe Rangel? And better yet, who doesn’t thoroughly enjoy doing business with this more than 50-years in combined business, an A+ rated roofer with the BBB, an elite Select Shingle Master and an entire staff that is amongst only the top 1% roofers in the entire country with this designation, and a man who is so confident of his estimates that he advertises free no-obligation inspections and estimates for all of his potential jobs? “Be ahead of the storm and the claims adjuster,” Joe suggests, “that way you have already done your due diligence, you have an expert standing there on your behalf when the claims inspector arrives, and

a contractor who is truly working on your behalf to get your claim resolved quickly, efficiently and one who will take care of you.” Rangel also points out the importance of choosing the right contractor. “Over the years I have not only heard horror stories and have seen firsthand, entire landscaping that was totally destroyed and trash left behind that is both hazardous to lawn equipment and potential injury to the homeowner and/or their guests. That is unacceptable workmanship,” Joe explains. “It’s like getting into a car accident with two fenders seriously damaged and hanging off of the vehicle and the vendor decides to fix only one fender, still leaving a damaged fender hanging from the vehicle. The policyholder has not only been upcharged and taken advantage of, but the vehicle has been left in a dangerous situation—while moving or parked. It’s crucial when giving an estimate that the contractor completes the entire job and not leave nails, trash or debris behind that then can cause a flat or injure someone later. When the job is completed, the homeowner needs to be satisfied that the work has been performed and that they have experienced a stressfree situation.” When asked what suggestions Rangel can make to homeowners across Fort Bend, Rangel offered excellent advice, “Everyone stocks their pantry and fills their gas tanks in preparation for severe weather but ignores checking their roofs for any weak points, leaks or damage that could be catastrophic if unnoticed. Our entire team has received the elite certification of the ‘Select Shingle Master Company,’ and we are here to help you stay ahead of severe damage to your roof and your personal belongings and put your mind at ease with a proactive approach.” If you don’t see Joe fixing or replacing a roof, applying Hardie Siding, replacing windows and doors or perhaps painting, perhaps you’ll see him sponsoring the numerous Little League and softball teams. Be ahead of the curve and call Joe, the wind and hail expert, the guy who, well, always has a smile on his face and so many know him as “Everybody’s Friend.”

www.allegianceroofing.com

October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

Let us be the solution to your Wind and Hail Damage. Call today for a FREE roof Inspection. Dear Homeowner, do yourself a favor and do your homework when choosing a contractor. Check their BBB rating, Google them for complaints and search for good and bad reviews. Be sure to get a notarized lien release once you have paid in full. The last thing you want to have to deal with is having a Mechanic’s Lien placed against your property because your contractor didn’t pay their material bill to their supplier.

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www.allegianceroofing.com

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

Hometrust Mortgage and Candace Jo Cagle

Your Logical Choice

Hometrust offers the best and the brightest of loan officers

estate agent and the buyer simply finding a house but much more than that. The standard now is that the buyer needs to decide on the loan officer, seek approval and present supporting documentation even before writing up the sales contract. The approval process is incredibly important to real estate agents. Hometrust Mortgage has built their reputation on solid approvals.

ometrust Mortgage prides itself on attracting mortgage professionals like Candace Jo Cagle, who are educated, compassionate and dedicated to their clients. Hometrust Mortgage, a top-tier correspondent lender, scooped up Candace Jo not only for her compassion for her clients, her expertise on educating her clients, her love for Family, Community and Faith, but also for her experience in the mortgage industry in Mississippi, New York and Texas. Candace holds a specialized certification, as a Certified Mortgage Planning Specialist. Candace Jo specifically wanted to work in the Stafford location because of the expert team led by Mary Titel and long-time friend Dawn Spiccia. Cagle says that the deciding factor of this location was the strong processing department led by Caroline Wijangco. A lender is only as good as their processor. Wijangco is phenomenal and there is rarely a situation that Spiccia, Titel and Cagle have not seen. “…I have known Candace for the last 10 years as she helped me with my very first loan when I became a licensed real estate agent. Candace goes beyond the call of duty and services her clients with the utmost care and attention. Never have I seen more dedication loyalty, integrity, enthusiasm and hard work than what she gives her clients. They are always happy with the experience and I would highly recommend her to any of my buyers!” —Katie Thompson Keller Williams Realty 832-492-8322

“Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence wins championships.” —Michael Jordan

WHO IS CANDACE JO CAGLE

CANDACE JO CAGLE, NMLS: 878436, CERTIFIED MORTGAGE PLANNER SPECIALIST

How We Do It Simply, Hometrust Mortgage offers SERVICE at its finest through a top-notch team of professionals who are educated, on the cutting edge of technology and understand the need of teamwork and service in this ever-changing Real Estate Environment. Life-long relationships have become crucial in the real estate industry. The home buying process has now flipped upside down. It’s not only about the real

October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

Candace Jo is a Certified Mortgage Planner at Hometrust Mortgage. She will tailor each transaction to each agent after working with them a couple of times. Tell her your hot buttons and her team can make sure to meet all your expectations. Candace loves teaching agents and buyers about the mortgage industry and in her opinion what is the best for them. The working “team” is big. “The loan officer or Real Estate is the quarterback, as I like to explain to my clients,” Candace Jo smiled. “It’s about bringing the real estate agent, processor, underwriter, surveyor, closer and Title Company all together. It must be effortless, flawlessly managed and harmoniously executed so that the buyer feels good at closing,” Candace Jo explained.

“Candace’s dedication and compassion to her clients is what makes her such an incredible loan officer. She cares about her clients’ finances and their families and the emotional process of buying a home. Candace has helped my husband and I transition from army life to civilian life. She goes above and beyond your expectations.” —Corenthal & Monica Love A passionate subject to Candace Jo is the importance of showing earnest concern and compassion for our men and women who have served us in the military. Veterans need compassion and understanding not pity and neglect and by helping them understand their VA benefits. And by educating them on the VA products, it allows them to return to a quality civilian life. “We can never forget about our men and women who keep us safe,” Candace Jo exclaimed.

Family, Community and Faith “Candace and Ray changed the course of my life when they took me in to raise me at 15 years old. An exchange student from the Czech Republic would never have thought I would find a family that would love me and support me through high school, college, medical school and most importantly give me an American Family with such incredible integrity for community and country. Her commitment to Family, Community, faith and Excellence run through her viens.” —Dr. Silvia Olejnikova

southern accent says, “My father protected us from most things. I was never aware of the fact that we had money or did not have money. Our GDP existed in the garden and our monetary currency was, ‘charge it to my daddy.’ “Mother taught us most everything else, and that was how to be a family, and that was teamwork when you have a big family. We woke up every morning wanting to do well, to be a good sister and child. “We were a team: Mom, dad, Cassie, Carinda, Candace, Carmen and Christie. We were the Cagles. We learned to work together and not abuse power. We were a team. Everyone had a job and the outcome was in direct relationship with how each individual participated as a team member. I still believe that,” says Candace.

Simply, Hometrust Mortgage offers SERVICE at its finest, through a top-notch team of professionals who are educated, on the cutting edge of technology and understand the need of teamwork and service in this ever— changing Real Estate Environment. HOMETRUST MORTGAGE ATTRACTS ONLY THE BEST HOW HOMETRUST GET IT DONE

Candace is a member of Exchange Club of Fort Bend Faith United Methodist Church National Association of Professional Women Sugar Land Chapter of Public Speakers Association

NMLS:149932

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce

10707 Corporate Drive, Suite 139 Stafford, TX 77477 Office: 281-565-7525 Cell: -281-239-9967 Fax: 281-579-9817

Women’s Council of Realtors

ccagle@hometrust.com

www.candacecagle.com

Candace grew up in Mississippi with her mom, dad and four sisters. Candace says the worst thing you could do in her home was show disrespect, not saying yes ma’am and yes sir, and bad table manners got you on the back door steps with your dinner and the dogs. She promises she knew nothing about money until she was 18. Candace and her

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

SPECIAL FEATURE - ASIAN-OWNED BUSINESSES

A Councilman, a businessman takes his community service to a new level by Speaking, Coaching, and Inspiring

ow does one describe Danny Nguyen; a man who validates what our country offers a penniless immigrant who initiated his own success as a commercial real estate broker and eventually, a respected local elected official. Danny is taking his entrepreneurship in yet further unchartered water with enthusiasm, excellent leadership skills and the desire to give back to the country and community that has blessed him so much. “My new found passion as an inspirational speaker has taken off,” Councilman Nguyen says. “I want to give back to the community and inspire others to succeed. There is no better country in the world that offers such opportunity. We now live in the most diverse county in the country—perhaps in the world—and I want to help others become as successful as I have been able to achieve. It is my turn to help others benefit from our freedom and flourish.”

Danny Nguyen speaks at one of the events where he receives an award of achievement.

Danny’s story is heartwarming, inspiring and powerful as he details his three-year journey in coming to America for freedom and opportunity. “If a political war refugee boy from Vietnam with nothing can accomplish his dreams, what stops anyone from realizing their own?”

Danny Nguyen’s DNC office.

Danny questions or usually challenges his audience. Too often immigrants from around the world spend their lives dwelling on the perceived threats they feel by being here in a foreign land and amongst strangers. Instead, Nguyen looks at his life as an opportunity in the making. Having a successful life actually boils down to strong mentality and character,” Danny explains. Danny Nguyen, as many know in the commercial real estate sector, has established a strong presence for the last 20 years, a profession he chose after graduating from Texas A&M University. Nguyen began as an agent, then a broker, then opened his first business, which led to opening his first franchise REMAX Commercial and now his own brand Danny Nguyen Commercial, parented by Danny Nguyen International, LLC. “I’m so grateful for this career not only for its monetary rewards but because it’s so fulfilling. I get to help develop people as a whole and impact my clients and even our communities in a huge way,” Nguyen explains. “I loved it when I first entered real October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

estate decades ago and still love doing what I do everyday,” Nguyen smiles. The key to being successful in the commercial real estate field is having the vision, especially the entrepreneurial vision, a strong passion and determination to succeed and the ability to put all the right players together to turn a vacant piece of land into buildings, shopping centers, companies or many other income producing opportunities for people. “We are fortunate to be doing so well as compared to other parts of the country. We have a lot of talent here. I love being in America. I am grateful to be in Texas. And it is great to be in Fort Bend!” Nguyen exclaims. Nguyen is now getting ready to complete his retail project, a 35,000 square foot shopping center. “Adversity introduces a man to himself” and “problems always breed opportunities.” These are the two motivational phrases that got Nguyen going strong and encouraged him to work harder than ever during the tough economic times. Being more than just an advocate of opportunities, Nguyen now offers an apprentice program for a few of those who have a burning desire, especially residential

SPECIAL FEATURE - ASIAN-OWNED BUSINESSES

DNC Office meeting with staff and agents. Photo by composurestudios.com

real estate agents, who want to get into this lucrative commercial industry where he will share with them business opportunities (both international and domestic), training, coaching and help to expand networking opportunities, meeting new people and places, and giving back to the communities. The timing has never been better. With the expansion of the Panama Canal, the strategic location of the Port of Houston and the increased amount of people coming to Texas every day, it’s even better! The future is bright!” Nguyen further explains. Councilmember Nguyen has been active in the greater Houston Region for a very long time, and is now coming up on his third term on Missouri City’s City Council. Nguyen has been active in both educating and changing the perception of the importance of international business opportunities we have right here in our own backyard. “Diversity can be mutually beneficial to all sides,” Nguyen explained, “if we know how to nurture it. Especially if everyone has the genuine desire to use his or her unique or specific skills, experience, knowledge and inspiration, to make our city or country a better place.” Nguyen is also known for his stand on the privilege and the power of voting, becoming involved in government and advocating its importance. “Not only is it a privilege but it will impact our lives. It is crucial that we speak up, that we have the right representation for us, as freedom is

not free,” Nguyen tells his audiences, “What good is freedom of speech when we don’t speak when it’s most needed?” Often Nguyen’s core message is about promoting a strong trade collaboration and building the synergy and strong relations between differing communities. His actions and achievements in the past speak loudly: • Founder of Entrepreneurial Club at TX A&M University; • Founder and Board Chair of the Vietnamese American Chamber of Commerce; • Radio Talk Show Host at 900AM “Business Forum” to advocate Free Enterprise where he interviewed several success stories of Vietnamese Americans in TX; • He has taken several outbound trade mission trips to different countries with other government and business leaders to encourage bilateral trades to his country and City…among others. The word has gotten out that Councilman Danny Nguyen, commercial real estate mogul, the man who immigrated to America decades ago with nothing besides the clothes on his back is already speaking at numerous events. Some of the recent feedback from Nguyen’s latest speaking engagements have been: “He’s empowering!; “He’s effective while being very entertaining”; “He’s so insightful!”; “His real life experience is so humbling yet I felt such a connection with his story!”; “ He brings to the table such enthusiasm and energy!”; “ He has such a positive outlook on life even after all the hurdles he’s faced, he never gave up!” Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

So what else does this humble man who has been such an inspiration, a positive mentor and role model to so many in the community still want to accomplish? Recently, Nguyen has been invited and featured to sing the National Anthem and Gob Bless America at different occasions and events. “To me singing the National Anthem is like saying ‘I love you’ to a country,” Nguyen respectfully explains. This month Danny was invited to sing the National Anthem at the Ronald Reagan Republican Women for the First Lt. Governor Candidates Forum. Danny Nguyen, the man from such a modest beginning who never gave up and never allowed someone to tell him that he couldn’t become successful in the greatest land of opportunity, an inspirational leader of our community, is giving back to our community on an even higher level. When asked what occasions and what organizations or groups do you want to speak to, Nguyen smiled and enthusiastically replied, “People who appreciate this country, who value freedom and the endless opportunities she offers and who NEED a little encouragement. I will be there! Recently, many also heard him on the radio with talk show Host Senator Dan Patrick to speak about freedom and opportunities. Another radio Host Michael Barry also praised Danny for his hard work ethics and contribution to this country. Want to have a speaker with a powerful message for your organizations? Want to learn more about Commercial Real Estate career? Danny Nguyen can be reached at DannyNguyen@DNcommercial.net; or 713 478-2972

9999 Bellaire Blvd., Suite 909 Houston, Texas 77036

713.270.5400

www.quocdoan.com www.dncommercial.net 23

SPECIAL FEATURE - ASIAN-OWNED BUSINESSES

Sunbelt Medical Corporation Innovative and Creative Thinking Leads to International Success

ow often have we heard “What is one man’s junk is another man’s treasure?” How can such a simple thought lead to so much innovation and success while customers are offered quality, dependable and cost-effficient products? Sunbelt Medical Corporation (SMC) was the creation of Sunny Sharma in 1989. So, how and why was Sunbelt “born”? Sunny grew up in India, receiving his undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering. After coming to the United States, Sunny went on to receive both a Master of Science degree in Industrial Engineering from Mississippi State University and also a Master of Business Administration from the University of Houston. In 1974, Sunny started his career as Management Engineer at St. Joseph Hospital and later became Director of the Management Engineering Department for St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital, Texas Children’s Hospital and Texas Heart Institute. Sunny was responsible for effectiveness, efficiency and cost containment in the various areas of the hospitals. To impact the global healthcare community, in 1983, Sunny co-founded and became Vice President and CFO of Medical Enterprises International, Inc., an independent service organization which maintained and serviced all types of medical equipment. The company was sold in 1987 to Systems Support Inc. where Sunny served as Clinical Director. With a keen eye to detail over the years, Sunny had seen equipment that was still fully operational but was being retired due to newer models being released, end of leasing terms or obsolescence and saw the potential to rebuild costly medical equipment and the opportunity to resell it.

Sunny Sharma, Founder and CEO of Sunbelt Medical Corporation (SMC), with his son, Dr. Rajan Sharma.

When his current company did not buy into the concept of selling “PreOwned” equipment, Sunny decided to start on his own and SMC was born in 1989. Sunny has fine-tuned his concept that is now internationally recognized, with clients all over the world. SMC offers equipment consultation, acquisition, installation and maintenance for healthcare facilities worldwide. SMC sells new and refurbished equipment to physicians’ offices, imaging centers and hospitals. In addition to medical equipment, Sunbelt also supplies new and pre-owned medical furniture and upholstery services. In a highly competitive medical field, SMC has been successful in providing cost-effective solutions to customers without any sales or marketing personnel. Not surprisingly, October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

SMC has been the only company to furnish a 50-bed General Hospital in West Africa with all refurbished equipment and a 40-bed Specialty Hospital here at home with all new equipment on a “turnkey” basis. Headquartered here in Houston, SMC is a privately-held independent sales and service organization. Sunny believes that, “A company is only as good as its people.” He explains that the following principles sum up nearly 25 years of the company’s success: “We believe in serving our clients more effectively, economically and with more quality than any other firm; we maintain a high ethical standard; we operate our company with a sense of competitive urgency; we stay abreast of state-of-the-art healthcare and medical electronics equipment fields; we make

SPECIAL FEATURE - ASIAN-OWNED BUSINESSES

our company the most exciting company within which to work; and, we strive to earn the respect of the global community. Even in today’s technologically-driven world, reality is that actual performance is still dependent upon people. SMC has the expertise to “clear away the fog” that surrounds these large expenditure decisions. Whether it’s consulting on new or existing equipment systems, repairs or maintenance, refurbishing or upgrading, acquisitions or dispositions or training and technical support, SMC is the go-to expert to tie that relationship with. In being an independent organization, SMC is able to provide an invaluable and unbiased evaluation to its clients. With medical costs continuing to increase, health-care providers are looking for ways to save wherever they can. SMC offers the flexibility of choosing refurbished equipment over new. Not only does this refurbished equipment look and perform like new but it provides a cost savings from 50-80% as compared to purchasing a new system. Sunny remembers convincing some of his doctor friends that used equipment, if properly maintained, can provide the same quality as it did before it was taken out of service. He cited the success of a heart transplant at a local hospital by replacing a 62-year-old ailing heart with a 24-year-old man’s heart that died in an accident. “That was a used heart,” said Sunny “and it saved a life.” A new physician can now rent particular medical equipment to test the market before making an expensive purchase. What is considered obsolete in our country is quite often considered state-of-the-art technology in third-world countries. With over 40,000 square feet available, SMC purchases all types of medical equipment and provides a facility the means of removing or relocating any broken or obsolete equipment. Sunny has served on the Supervisory board of the World Trade Division of Greater Houston Partnership. He has been on several boards including West Fort Bend American Heart Association, Sister Cities of Houston, Indo American Foundation and Houston Abu Dhabi Sister city Association, to name a few. Sunny was appointed by the Mayor of Houston to serve on the

Lansana Conte, President of Guinea, (Second from the left), Al Edwards, State Representative from Houston (next to Sharma), and Sunny Sharma, CEO/Founder of Sunbelt Medical Corporation.

Board of Mayor’s International Trade & Development Council for Middle East and North Africa for 2012-14. He also serves on Sugar Land Legacy Foundation. He was elected as District Governor of Rotary District 5890 for 2010-11 and received several awards. Sunny and his wife, Rashmi, were honored as “Fort Bend Humanitarian of the Year” in 2003. Sunny has been recognized in the community for his adjunct faculty member classes he’s taught, been sought after as a speaker, and has written and published numerous healthcare articles. Sunny has a huge sense of social responsibility to the community. He feels that basic medical technology should be affordable to all human beings and often donates good pre-owned medical equipment to third-world countries. He led a team of Rotarians in Haiti and started a Bio Medical Equipment Repair Training program following the devastating earthquake in 2010. The country has a lot of broken equipment but hardly any trained personnel to repair or maintain it. After two years of basic training, 24 Haitians are empowered now to repair equipment such as autoclaves, suction pumps, vital signs monitors, clinical laboratory, anesthesia machines, etc. A second class of 22 students is already under way and Sharma is exploring the options to make this program sustainable. Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

“But what has been most rewarding is the opportunity to help a medical institution that, for the first time, can now afford to offer MRI, CT Scans and Ultrasound services to their patients. In third-world countries, they can now have working sterilizers and use of other medical modalities that were unaffordable in the past.” Sunny explains. “We are saving lives and making a difference,” he further adds, “which warms my heart. That’s what it’s all about.” From bed pan to CAT scan, SMC is your turnkey healthcare solutions provider. “If you haven’t come by and visited SMC, come on by and visit us,” Sunny warmly smiles, “we’re here to serve you.”

SUNBELT MEDICAL CORPORATION 2040 Johanna, Houston Texas 77055

713-956-9500 713-956-2635 fax www.sunbeltmedical.com 25

SPECIAL FEATURE - ASIAN-OWNED BUSINESSES

Five Star Dentists Grand Opening Celebration

4th Five Star Dentists office serving Houston-Pearland area

ive Star Dentists is excited to announce the grand opening of our 4th dental office located in the Houston-Pearland area. With the success and growth of our dental offices currently serving residents of Rosharon, Fresno, Missouri City, Sugar Land, Rosenberg, and Houston, we are pleased to continue the growth and extend our excellent dental services to the Houston-Pearland area. We celebrated the Grand Opening Event of the new office location with many of our family members, friends, business friends, our staff and their families and friends, as well as our patients and their families. We were honored to have Missouri City Council, Mr. Danny Nguyen, as our special guest at the Event.

Keeping the guests entertained and wowed, Five Star Dentists celebrated the event in style with dragon dance and Kung Fu show, moon walk for the kids, live radio station, and lots of food and fun activities. Everyone get to tour the new state-of-the-art facility housing beautiful and luxurious patient treatment rooms, a large and comfortable patient lobby with a soothing water fall, and a kids-friendly, McDonald’s like “play-place” for the children. Each patient room is equipped with top of the line ADEC dental chair that is super comfortable, and each chair has a built in TV with Direct TV programming for patient’s viewing enjoyment while getting dental works done. Each room has its own color theme and luxurious decoration to make you

feel as relaxed and as comfortable as possible. There is also a large decorative mirror on the wall in each room for you to see your “Star” smile, after your dental appointment ! The children play area has a 3D touch screen game machine with over 500 games to choose from. There is also a mini soft playground that keep the children fun and entertained and make them forget all about the “anxiety” or “fear” of the dentist right away ! Dr. MinhLy Nguyen, Dr. Andrew Tran, and the entire Five Star Dentists staff greatly appreciate the trust and support of all of our patients, families, and friends, which allowed us to continue to grow our business and bring more excellent dental services to more and more patients.

Fresno Office 281-431-8909 • Rosenberg Office 281-232-4446 • Houston Office 713-781-7827 Houston-Pearland Office 713-734-782 • www.5stardentists.com

October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

SPECIAL FEATURE - ASIAN-OWNED BUSINESSES

Five Star Dentists is proud to introduce TOOTH IQ JR. app! Now available on the Apple App Store! Created by our very own doctors, Dr. Andrew Tran and Dr. MinhLy Nguyen, this app is packed with fun features and valuable dental education info. Accompanied with an illustrated graphic style, narrated animations, an interactive tooth doctor game and a mini-braces game, both children and parents will enjoy the benefits of this app. Download the app today and join Toothy Dino in learning about tooth anatomy, whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in the mouth, what causes cavities, and the importance of brushing and flossing. Get it for FREE** at your next checkup or dental appointment at Five Star Dentists. Call now to schedule your appointment.

** To receive the FREE download code, you

must be an active patient or a family member of an active patient of Five Star Dentists.

Your Smile. Your Success. 5StarDentists.com 281.431.8909

Learn more at

TOOTHIQJR.COM

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

SPECIAL FEATURE - ASIAN-OWNED BUSINESSES

Sultan Momin, Owner and Lead Chef

Commitment to excellence

Cafe India

In Private Practice for 20 years

281.565.5881

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

FAMILY LAW • PROBATE CIVIL LITIGATION

LUNCH

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

Tandoori Chicken

COMMERCIAL TRANSACTIONS Farha Ahmed

DINNER

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

Mon, Wed,Thurs & Sun from 5:00-9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday from 5:00-10:00 p.m

How do you retouch a masterpiece? Gracefully.

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

www.thesugarcreek.com | 281.494.9131

October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

26th Annual Rangerette Market Day

would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself; my name is Chelsea Marie Gonzales and I was born on October 18th, 1995. I’m a senior at B.F. Terry High School in Rosenberg, Texas and am so very fortunate to be a part of the prestigious Rangerette drill team dancers. I first discovered my love for dancing at around three years old and would spend hours dancing around the living room with my brother and cousins. We would pretend that we were competing in a dance contest and would choreograph dances together. Those were some of my very best, carefree childhood memories. I didn’t know it then, but my life would soon be turned upside down. I was forever changed when my father was diagnosed with cancer in 2000. My brother and I would come home and help our mother care for him and try to make him as comfortable as possible & I knew there was no place I’d rather be than caring for my daddy. He would call me his little nurse while my mother continued to work and support our family. I wish more than anything he could be here to see everything I have been able to accomplish since his passing but I am so blessed to know that he’s smiling down on me and watching from above. One of the memories I cherish is when I played baseball with RRNLL and can still remember my dad looking on and smiling with such pride. In the summer of 2005 I decided to be a cheerleader for the Rosenberg Roughnecks, something that my father had always wanted for me but was unable to see. He passed away mid-way through the year on July 4, 2005. I was about to start the fourth grade and my brother was going into junior high. I was absolutely devastated and I didn’t know if I really wanted to continue cheering, but my mother was my constant cheerleader and encouraged me to never give up on what I wanted to accomplish in life. I mustered up the courage and continued on for 3 little league football seasons. This endeavor

We are gearing up for our 26th annual Rangerette Market Day, set for 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday November 2nd at B.F. Terry High School, 5500 Ave. N. Rosenberg, Texas. Admission is free and booth space is available. The show features homemade arts and crafts, homemade wood work and etc. This is a perfect time to come out and start looking for a great Christmas gift for your love ones, friends or co-workers. We will have concession available and drawing for a door prize. So come out and support our Rangerette. If you are a vendor we have some open spots available to set up a booth for you and if you are interested to learn more, you can email Lisa Gonzales at speedygonzo66@yahoo.com or you can go to our website www.bfterryrangerette.org then go to important documents and you will be able to pull the application for our event if you would like a booth. Please come out and support our Rangerette dance team.

Chelsea Marie Gonzales

led me to play softball for a team that one of my uncles was coaching even though I wasn’t quite old enough for the age division. I played softball for three years and learned so much about myself and my strengths. I continued down the road less traveled by trying out and making the wrestling team my sophomore year. While we didn’t have very many girls participating, it was still a very interesting experience overall. Finally, Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

during my spring semester I took a step towards a goal I had wanted for a long time, a step towards a passion I had since I was just three years old. I went ahead and tried out for the drill team. Becoming a Rangerette was one of the very happiest days that I had in a long time. I was taking regular dance classes which help me decide to try out for the Rangerette’s. I’m even taking extra dance classes in Sugar land just to improve myself. All of my hard work had finally paid off and I can’t help but think that it was in part due to my dad’s unfailing love and pride and my mom’s constant encouragement and faith in following my heart. I am forever working to improve myself and my abilities. I am now preparing for the next step in my life – leaving for college and continuing my education. I’m not quite sure of the path I will take, but I know that I will find the perfect fit for me and, all the while, my dad will be guiding my every step of the way.

Below Fort Bend’s surface: Raising awareness as county grows By Tim Cumings

he new signposts began popping up across Fort Bend County toward the end of 2009. They are still in place, and more will follow. Planted within the county roadside right-of-way, each sign bears the name of a cemetery. It also displays the county government’s official seal, along with the citation “Health and Safety Code, Chapter 711.” The unmistakable message is that there is a cemetery, whether visible or not, lying somewhere in the vicinity. Upon seeing the signs appear inside or close by their neighborhoods, some residents and homeowners’ associations have made inquiries. The people who initiated the signpost program are happy to talk about what’s behind it. They explain that the signs are about raising awareness… that the fast-growing Fort Bend County of today needs to respect and care for what’s left of those who came before. In some cases, the discovery of “lost” cemeteries has come too late to save them from what Bob Crosser terms “obliteration by development.”

Crosser is a Richmond resident who is dedicated to historical preservation. An avocational archeologist, he was instrumental in organizing the Fort Bend County Archeological Society. He currently chairs the Cemetery Committee for the Fort Bend County Historical Commission (CHC), a non-paid appointive body of the county government. He is passionate about protecting local historical and cultural assets, and at the top of that list are old cemeteries. “Putting up the signs was the idea of (Fort Bend) County Clerk Dianne Wilson,” said Crosser, who embraced the concept and ran with it. Brian Fields of the county’s Road and Bridge Department designed the signposts and that department is also doing the installations. Chapter 711 of the state’s Health and Safety Code contains general provisions relating to cemeteries. Section 711.035(f) says that once property is dedicated for cemetery use it cannot be used for any other purpose unless the dedication is removed by state district court action. Crosser pointed out that the simple act of interment suffices to dedicate a gravesite in perpetuity. “A single grave constitutes a cemetery,” he noted. And there are many spots within the county, he October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

added, where no trace remains of small single- and multiple-grave cemeteries. Sometimes the traces have disappeared because there were never permanent markers on the graves, Crosser explained. “We don’t have much rock here,” he said, “and wooden markers rot over time.” Unchecked vegetation growth, erosion and the work of varmints have also damaged or destroyed graves. Crosser has concluded that at least two small burial sites actually sloughed off into the Brazos River. One of the earliest graves in the county is marred by the growth through it of what is now a mature tree. But Nature is not solely to blame. Fort Bend County continues to go against the national economic trend by enjoying phenomenal growth. Native residents under the age of 40 have seldom witnessed anything else. New rooftops appear as if by magic on the prairies and former pasture land. Infrastructure construction is pressed to keep up. All of which can have negative consequences – usually but not always unintended -- for the frequently unmarked, often invisible smaller cemeteries. Crosser is aware of instances in which gravesites were determined to exist only after development had redirected the use of the land.

Those who came before There appear to have been few if any permanent residents within the county prior to the coming of the Americans. The Karankawas and other Native American tribes left some signs of their early presence but no signs of settlement. Although Texas lay within the boundaries of colonial Spain and later Mexico, the major Spanish/Mexican ranching activity of those times appears to have taken place south and west of our county. Stephen F. Austin brought American settlers – the pioneers known as “The Old 300” -- into the region in 1822. It is from this date forward that the soil of the upper Gulf Coast began receiving human remains in real numbers. Among the Texas luminaries interred in Richmond’s historic Morton Cemetery are Mirabeau B. Lamar, second president of the Republic of Texas and acknowledged “Father of Texas Education;” Jane Long, “Mother of Texas;” and Walter Moses Burton, born in slavery and later a member of the Texas Senate. Today, the CHC’s Cemetery Committee lists 155 known cemeteries. Yet those cemeteries which are readily identifiable (fenced, signage, grave markers) represent only a fraction of the total. That the remainder of the cemeteries made the list at all is a testament to the dedication and hours spent by volunteer researchers.

Finding the unseen Long before Bob Crosser became involved, local genealogists were at work compiling the names found on every legible tombstone and in every available cemetery inventory. In a massive and tedious undertaking, genealogists assembled the data that today fills six thick volumes. But they always knew that the results coming solely from those sources would be incomplete. Numerous older graves and grave clusters had no headstones and weren’t included on any inventory. The next step was to tackle local and state records, as well as privately held research data, and to extract information on deaths and burials. This effort is ongoing on several fronts: • A little-known state law requires

anyone who discovers an unrecorded cemetery to file a notice of discovery with the county clerk’s office. The existence of Burnside and Shipman’s League cemeteries became public knowledge because the CHC filed such notices. • County government is responsible for the burial of paupers as well as unidentified remains. Volunteers have combed the minutes of county commissioners’ court sessions for information on these burials. (There have indeed been burials of unidentified remains, most infamously the headless and limbless torso of a murdered man whom lawmen referred to privately as “Stubby.”) • Examination of the county’s deed records is also ongoing, with 17 of the record books searched to date. Perhaps no aspect of the cemetery research efforts better illustrates the dedication of those conducting them than the perusal of deeds. Nineteenth-century deed records were recorded by hand, and as volunteer Virginia Scarborough commented, “Some of the handwriting is beautiful and some of it is pretty bad.” Scanning the deed records may produce only scant success, as sometimes an entire volume yields nothing of value. Sometimes the relevant data that researchers do find is not new, although it reinforces the existence of cemeteries already uncovered. Even after these and other public and private sources of information have been exhaustively searched, the end is not yet. Bob Crosser’s continuing interest in archeology has led him to tap modern technology for further help.

Below the surface Thanks to the generosity of a local foundation, the CHC early this year became the proud owner of a groundpenetrating radar (GPR) instrument. Once the training and practice phases are completed, searches for unmarked graves will resume with a new and powerful tool. This renewed effort will be directed by commission member Bruce Grethen. The device resembles a rotary push mower without the blades. As it travels over the ground, images are captured that tell whether the earth underground has been disturbed. Grave shafts can thus be detected. Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

Soil type influences how deep the penetration reaches; sand is much easier to search than clay. Crosser emphasized that no non-intrusive system employed to find graves is “100 per cent accurate.” However, an early test run over unmarked graves at a Fulshear cemetery brought promising results. The Cemetery Committee has also harnessed technology for another purpose. In doing its initial inventory a couple of decades back, volunteers used standard driving directions in describing where each cemetery was located. “Roads and landmarks can change,” Crosser noted. “GPS (Global Positioning System) coordinates don’t.” Cemetery location data is now augmented by GPS coordinates. As new sites are discovered and old ones more precisely located, the Fort Bend County Engineering Department continues to build and update a master map of cemeteries using its GIS (Geographic Information System) capability. Finding and recording these historical remnants doesn’t end the responsibilities assumed by Crosser and the Cemetery Committee. Protection from both unintentional and deliberate threats of damage is also being addressed with a subcommittee that monitors the condition of cemeteries. “We have determined that some cemeteries may be at higher risk than others,” Crosser said. “We’ll inspect them more often.” He noted that anyone seeing an act of destruction or desecration taking place in a cemetery should call 911. Such acts are crimes in progress and can reach the status of state jail felonies. Not every landowner is thrilled when notified that a hitherto unsuspected cemetery has been discovered -- or is at least suspected of being located – on his property. State law, however, makes it clear that cemeteries must be made accessible. If resistance to access is prolonged, the Cemetery Committee will consult with the Fort Bend County Attorney’s Office to acquire additional leverage. While most of the participants in the cemetery projects are CHC appointees, non-members are welcome to serve. Those interested in helping should phone (832) 471-2525 and leave their name, contact information and reason for calling.

TURN-KEY MARKETING SOLUTIONS COVER STORY

lue Jungle Marketing, a locally owned and operated business in Fort Bend County, has been servicing businesses and organizations throughout this area and the U.S. for the past 12 years. Founders and owners, Becky and Jim Munnell, have developed a team of dedicated, customer centric associates. This team of professionals has been assisting many businesses, service organizations and non-profit groups throughout the greater Houston area with the products and services they require to effectively market their respective brand or service. The company recently partnered with HALO Branded Solutions, a leading promotional product distributor in the $18 billion per year promotional products industry. Blue Jungle Marketing offers a variety of marketing services, including promotional products and apparel, embroidery and screen printing, graphic design, printing and large format printing (signs and banners). “As a professional in the marketing, communications and promotional products industry, we are constantly striving for solutions which allow us to service our clients more effectively. HALO is a full service merchandising and marketing company with offices from coast to coast. By partnering with HALO, we now have access to new resources, greater buying power and

The marketing team at Blue Jungle Marketing: Robert Prejean, Kathleen Lobue, Liliana Gamez, Becky Munnell, Abbey McDonald, Lisa Wood and Jim Munnell.

more in-house services and support,” said Munnell. If you are looking for a promotional product that is tailored to your business, Blue Jungle Marketing can find the right product for your company. With a choice of over 100,000 key promotional pieces, businesses can shop online or visit their showroom for the latest trends. “We are very responsive to our clients’ needs with creating not just a promotional product for giveaway, but a product that ties directly back to our clients’ business,” said Munnell. “We differentiate ourselves from other October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

promotional product companies by not only offering superior customer service but also a unique creative approach for our clients. Our objective is to provide our clients with a creative product or solution that conveys a positive message that builds awareness and increases sales.” Blue Jungle also has an in-house design team for printing needs. Blue Jungle can develop eye-catching creative brochures or collateral. Good design just doesn’t happen. It comes with a solid understanding of your business, your goals and your customer. It begins with an idea and ends with a product

BRAND POWER Promotional products evoke positive emotions.

The Power of Promotional Products WHY PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS? Promotional products are useful, long-

Looking for a unique way to measure results with social media? Combine a promotional product for added value and steer your customers to your page. “Like us” at Blue Jungle Marketing’s Facebook page and find out how you can win a iPAD.

that will deliver a message with a lasting impression. The team of designers at Blue Jungle will work with you to develop a look that reflects your business and products. Another advantage to working with Blue Jungle is that they can create an entire marketing program that encompasses marketing collateral, promotional products, social media and web-based marketing. Currently Blue Jungle Marketing is celebrating its 12-year anniversary with a marketing campaign piggybacked off of an earlier successful program. In 2008, when Blue Jungle moved to Stafford, they sent out a direct mail piece with a branded blue monkey, announcing their move and name change. “Our blue monkey promotion was so successful that we have decided to have a ‘Name the blue monkey’ contest. We will be promoting it through social media, along with a very unique direct mail piece to key clients. We will be giving away an iPAD to the person who comes up with our monkey’s name,” Munnell said. Tying in promotions with social media is a newer trend in marketing and it can give a business measured results. To find out more information about the contest, go to Blue Jungle’s Facebook site and “like us.” Continues...

lasting and appreciated. These costeffective tools can have a measurable impact with a high perceived value and easily can be used to complement other Reach your target audience with a more permanent message for a fraction of the cost with promotional products.

advertising media.

PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS ARE APPRECIATED

• 83% of American consumers like receiving a promotional product with an advertising message

• 48% would like to receive promotional products more often

• 38% feel promotional products serve as a constant reminder of the

Ear buds are one of the most popular tech items this year. Use these with Smart phones, iPADs and computers.

advertiser

PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS HAVE AN EXCEPTIONALLY HIGH RECALL RATE

• 90.4% of consumers surveyed possess a promotional product received within the

Have your employees sporting the latest corporate apparel. Blue Jungle carries name-brand and generic apparel.

last 24 months

• 94% of those consumers could recall the promotional product

• 89% could recall the advertiser

• 78% could recall the message

PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS MOTIVATE CONSUMERS TO TAKE ACTION When asked which medium has the greatest ability to provide someone an incentive to take action, consumers Use catch phrases on promotional items such as “We’ve Got You Covered” on an umbrella to gain value-added results. Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

overwhelmingly favored promotional products.

BLUE JUNGLE MARKETING PARTNERS WITH HALO BRANDED SOLUTIONS

Blue Jungle Marketing’s sister company, Embroidecor, provides embroidery, apparel decorating, signs and banners from the Stafford location.

Along with the promotional products and design, Blue Jungle Marketing has a sister company, Embroidecor, that is located at the same site. Embroidecor was founded in 2011 after the acquisition of PDQ Marketing. Embroidecor is a contract embroidery and garment decorating company that provides custom services to companies locally and nationally. These services are provided by a team of experienced personnel averaging over 20 years in the garment decorating industry utilizing the latest in computerized high-speed production equipment. Embroidecor also offers large format printing, which includes signs, banners, wall graphics and tradeshow graphics. No matter what your marketing needs may be, Blue Jungle Marketing can build your entire marketing tool kit for your business success.

HALO Branded Solutions, the country’s largest exclusive distributor for promotional products, has announced a new partnership with Stafford, Texas-based Blue Jungle Marketing. Blue Jungle Marketing’s sales team has over 12 years of experience in promotional marketing, developing and implementing corporate branding initiatives for their local and nationwide customer base. Operations will continue in Texas with HALO providing additional support out of their corporate office in Illinois. According to Becky Munnell, president of Blue Jungle Marketing, “By combining our creativity and experience with HALO’s buying power, corporate program solutions and product safety initiatives, we will be able to provide our customers with more flexible solutions, limitless merchandise options and increased satisfaction on every order.” About HALO Branded Solutions HALO Branded Solutions, with operational headquarters in Sterling, Illinois, is a leading promotional products distributor in the $18 billion per year promotional products industry. The Company has a growing nationwide sales force and expects to continue its profitable growth by offering innovative client solutions, priced competitively, and supported by world-class operations and customer service.

Visit our showroom and meet with one of our consultants to help with your marketing projects.

10700 Corporate Drive, Suite 100 Stafford, Texas 77477-4002

281-240-6700

info@ bluejunglemarketing.com

bluejunglemarketing.com 34

Custom signs, banners and tradeshow graphics are designed and produced on site.

October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

S DIRECT AU XA

October

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Randy Torres Congratulations to Randy Torres, a recent graduate of George Ranch High School, for being selected as Texas Direct Auto’s “Scholarship Star” for October! Tenneka Moore, Supervisor of Guest Services, presents the $1,000 scholarship. At George Ranch High School, Randy was a member of National Honor Society (NHS) and the band. Determined, dedicated and committed, Randy regularly serves the Fort Bend Community by volunteering at Bethel Ministries. Randy plans to attend the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio to pursue a degree in pharmacy. Randy was selected as part of Texas Direct Auto’s commitment to educational excellence through the “Scholarship Stars” program. Application details are listed at www.fortbendfocus.com.

Red is Kim expands with SHOP.COM

“I

t was a natural fit for Red is Kim (RiK), an image and business branding consultancy, to team up with veteran e-commerce site SHOP. com,” says RiK founder, Kim Bell. “One of the most important facets to RiK, is providing quality goods at great prices to meet my customers’ needs and also stay within their budget. SHOP.com enables me to do just that.” Bell partnered with SHOP.com so that RiK customers, family, friends and associates could also enjoy the tremendous benefits she extends to her clients and then some. The timing of the launch of SHOP.com is no coincidence either, “I wanted to help people truly enjoy their holidays and not stress over their expenses. Not only do they have access to exclusive savings offers but they also earn cash back and I don’t think there’s anyone who wouldn’t like that!”

Bell went on to explain, “Through Red is Kim’s SHOP.com site (shop.com/ rediskim or via the link on rediskim. com), my customers can now shop millions of items from over 6,000 stores and at the same time, earn 2-50% cash back to put towards future purchases. What’s also great is that my clients now have access to over 3,000 of SHOP.com’s exceptional private label products like Isotonix health supplements, Lumiere de Vie skin care, Motives make-up - just to name a few.” Of course, the limitless income potential with SHOP.com didn’t hurt either. Bell not only considered SHOP. com’s unique business model as an additional means of income for herself, but for her clients as well. “Many of my clients are looking for ways to improve their lives and earn more for themselves rather than someone else. I understand people want a better

October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

quality of life – hence RiK teaming up with SHOP.com. To put it simply, there are three ways to earn income through SHOP.com: first is 30% - 1,000% on those amazing private label products (you determine the retail price); second, cash back on your individual purchases and third, cash back from all purchases made on your own SHOP.com page.” Bell went on to say, “By partnering with SHOP.com, I’m able to help customers put money back into their pockets. It’s the ultimate gift with purchase!” Clearly, Bell has achieved her goal of giving back to her customers through the addition of SHOP.com to her branding consultancy, Red is Kim. To get started saving and earning cash back, visit SHOP.com/rediskim. To learn more details about the income potential with SHOP.com, call Kim Bell at 713.291.2986 or visit rediskim.com.

NEWSWORTHY

West Fort Bend Management District announces new leadership The Board of Directors of the West Fort Bend Management District has selected Bob Ray of Ray Glass Company to serve as board president for the upcoming year. Ray, who has served on the board since 2011, took the position at the August district board meeting. For the past two years Ray has served on the District’s Variance Committee. His leadership has included review of a variety of development projects such as OCuSOFT, Raceway, Frito Lay and the renovation of several existing buildings along Highway 90A. Ray is a life resident and small business owner in Rosenberg. In addition to selecting a new president, the board also welcomed returning board members Lane Ward and Joey Dupuis, as well as, welcomed two new directors; Todd Johnson and Anthony Sulak. Add Sulak and Johnson info - about four lines. Johnson joins the board as vice president and will oversee the District’s Standards Committee. Sulak will serve as assistant secretary and will serve on the District’s Variance Committee. thanked the members for their service and welcomed the new members. “Serving on the board of a rural management district requires

dedication, time, and a commitment to improving our communities,” Board Chairman Bob Ray said. “It is exciting to welcome new members to the board, Bob Ray who bring with them a fresh perspective and a different personal approach. I know that their service will provide tremendous benefits to the organization.” The West Fort Bend Management District is a special district of the State Todd Johnson of Texas. The goal of the district is to support a thriving economic climate in and around the cities of Richmond and Rosenberg that ensures sound commercial development and improves the quality of life of the community. The District meets monthly to review development issues and receive progress reports on its existing projects. The public is welcome to attend these meetings, which occur on the third Tuesday of the month at 3 pm, at the City of Richmond City Hall Annex. More information on the District and its meeting schedule can be found at www.wfbmd.org.

Sugar Land Town Square welcomes Jupiter Pizza & Waffle Jupiter Pizza & Waffle Co. is now open for business in Sugar Land Town Square. Jupiter, the newest fusion concept from the owners of Japaneiro’s and GURU Burgers + Crepes, offers a variety of pizza, waffles, barista-grade coffee and local microbrewery draft beers and wine. Jupiter is located at 16135 City Walk, and occupies 4,582 square feet of space. The menu features such items as the Angry Rooster Pizza with pulled pork, jalapenos

and yard egg and the Sure-e Waffle with chimichurri grilled chicken and gruyere cheese. The restaurant is open from 5-10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 10 a.m.10 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Jupiter is closed for business on Mondays. More information about Jupiter Pizza & Waffle Co., including a complete menu, may be found online at JupiterPizzaAndWaffles. com.

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

NRG Employees donate to L.E.A.F.

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

Employees at the W.A. Parish power plant are helping Lamar CISD students take a trip to a brighter future, with a generous donation to the Lamar Educational Awards Foundation (L.E.A.F.) Because of the $3,000 donation from the NRG Employee Charitable Fund, fifthgrade students at some Lamar CISD schools will be touring university campuses in the Houston area, showing them that a college degree is closer than they think. “This is an opportunity to expose them to education opportunities that exist after high school,” said L.E.A.F. Executive Director Janice Knight “Hopefully, by planting this seed of awareness, these students will grow to realize that they can accomplish anything.” “We are so appreciative of the employees at W.A. Parish for approving this donation again this year to help our students see the need for higher education,” said L.E.A.F. board President Judi Vernon. L.E.A.F. was created to encourage teachers to develop creative instructional strategies in the classroom. District teachers are given the opportunity to make their creative ideas a reality and positively impact student learning. L.E.A.F. awarded more than $217,000 during the 2012 funding period and has awarded more than $1.6 million in 13 years. Follow us @LEAFGrants on Twitter or like us at Lamar Educational Awards Foundation on Facebook.

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

Texans to vote on nine proposed constitutional amendments November 5 Pursuant to Sections 274.001 and 274.002 of the Texas Election Code, the propositions for the joint resolutions will appear as follows: PROPOSITION 1 “The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for an exemption from ad valorem taxation of all or part of the market value of the residence homestead of the surviving spouse of a member of the armed services of the United States who is killed in action.” PROPOSITION 2 “The constitutional amendment eliminating an obsolete requirement for a State Medical Education Board and a State Medical Education Fund, neither of which is operational.” PROPOSITION 3 “The constitutional amendment to authorize a political subdivision of this state to extend the number of days that aircraft parts that are exempt from ad valorem taxation due to their location in this state for a temporary period may be located in this state for purposes of qualifying for the tax exemption.” PROPOSITION 4 “The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for an exemption from ad valorem taxation of part of the market value of the residence homestead of a partially disabled veteran or the surviving spouse of a partially disabled veteran if the residence homestead was donated to the disabled veteran by a charitable organization.” PROPOSITION 5 “The constitutional amendment to authorize the making of a reverse mortgage loan for the purchase of homestead property and to amend lender disclosures and other requirements in connection with a reverse mortgage loan.” PROPOSITION 6 “The constitutional amendment providing for the creation of the State Water

Implementation Fund for Texas and the State Water Implementation Revenue Fund for Texas to assist in the financing of priority projects in the state water plan to ensure the availability of adequate water resources.” PROPOSITION 7 “The constitutional amendment authorizing a home-rule municipality to provide in its charter the procedure to fill a vacancy on its governing body for which the unexpired term is 12 months or less.”

PROPOSITION 8 “The constitutional amendment repealing Section 7, Article IX, Texas Constitution, which relates to the creation of a hospital district in Hidalgo County.” PROPOSITION 9 “The constitutional amendment relating to expanding the types of sanctions that may be assessed against a judge or justice following a formal proceeding instituted by the State Commission on Judicial Conduct.”

2013 Employment and Training grants available The U.S. Department of Labor, through its contractor IMPAQ International, announced the availability of approximately $80,000 in funding for the 2013 Employment and Training Administration’s Research Papers Program. As the department celebrates the program’s fifth year, 10 awards are expected to be granted on a competitive basis to doctoral and post-doctoral students to carry out relevant research on policy related to employment and training topics that are aligned with Employment and Training Administration’s Five-Year Strategic Research Plan for 2012-2017. The application deadline is Nov. 11, 2013. Eligible topics include, but are not limited to: • Understanding Changing Labor Markets • Identifying Effective Strategies • Improving Workforce System Infrastructure • Addressing the Needs of Special Populations • Building Research Infrastructure and Support Through the Research Papers Program, the department continues to build the collective knowledge base of which practices successfully connect workers with employment opportunities and career pathways, as well

October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

as support emerging researchers who are interested in this field. Award recipients will be expected to present their findings to the Department of Labor’s leadership and staff. Additionally, the department expects final papers to be published in peer-reviewed journals. Successful applicants must demonstrate the following: • Methodological soundness and sophistication of the proposed research project that will add to the literature on evidencebased policy • Policy-relevant research questions and topic areas • Comprehensive work plan, including identification and involvement of an academic advisor • A record of academic accomplishment and research aptitude Prospective applicants are encouraged to view ETA’s Five-Year Strategic Research Plan for 2012-2017 at http://www.dol. gov/_sec/stratplan/2014outreach/. And additional information related to the 2013 Research Papers program, such as details on application procedures, is available on the program’s website at http://www. ETAResearchPapersProgram.IMPAQINT. com.

NEWSWORTHY

SKYWARN training set for October 10 in Missouri City Severe Weather Spotter Training will be held Thursday October 10, from 6:30— 9:00 p.m. at the Missouri City Public Safety Building, 3845 Cartwright Road in Missouri City. SKYWARN is a freetraining program sponsored by the Houston-Galveston National Weather Service Office in conjunction with Fort Bend County Office of Emergency Management. Volunteers are trained to watch the skies during severe weather then relay reports back to the local Emergency Management Office and/or the Houston-Galveston National Weather Service (NWS) Office. These volunteers provide valuable information to

the NWS to improve the warning program which could save lives and prevent property damage in your community. For more information please contact Fort Bend County Office of Emergency Management at 281-342-6185 or alan. spears@co.fort-bend.tx.us. To register log-on to: http://www.fbcoem.org/go/ survey/1528/1243/ Volunteers will learn: • Basics of thunderstorm development • Fundamentals of storm structure • Identifying potential severe weather features

Photo ID now required for voting in Texas Texas Secretary of State John Steen has announced that photo identification will now be required when voting in Texas elections. His announcement follows a decision made in June by the U.S. Supreme Court that cleared the way for photo ID requirements in Texas, originally passed by the Texas Legislature in 2011, to take effect. “My office is committed to making sure Texans have all the information they need to vote, including what forms of identification they need now that photo ID requirements are in effect,” said Secretary Steen. A voter will be required to show one of the following forms of photo identification at the polling location before the voter will be permitted to cast a vote: • Texas driver license issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) • Texas concealed handgun license issued by DPS • Texas personal identification

card issued by DPS • Texas Election Identification Certificate issued by DPS • United States military identification card containing the person’s photograph • United States citizenship certificate containing the person’s photograph • United States passport With the exception of the U.S. citizenship certificate, the identification must be current or have expired no more than 60 days before being presented at the polling place. The new requirement does not change the process for voting by mail. Election identification certificates are now available only for voters who do not already have a required form of photo identification. There is no fee for the certificate. Information on how to obtain an election identification certificate can be found at www.dps.texas.gov. You may also contact DPS by telephone at (512) 424-2600. To review frequently asked questions and answers, visit www.votetexas.gov.

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

Fort Bend Regional Infrastructure Conference The conference, which featured TxDOT Executive Director Phil Wilson, was a comprehensive resource for forecasts, technical information and updates regarding developing projects in Fort Bend County. Attendees received first-hand information from some of the area’s most respected authorities on water, transportation, public-private partnerships, and economic forecasting throughout the region. Four Professional Development Hours were available to professional engineers, including ethics. The breakfast keynote was Fort Bend County Judge Robert Hebert, gave an overview of current and future infrastructure projects that will affect local taxpayers. The luncheon keynote was Wilson, who discussed how decisions made in the 83rd State Legislature will affect regional and statewide infrastructure projects. The Fort Bend County Commissioners closed the conference with a panel, providing information about the potential projects in the upcoming mobility bond that will be on the November ballot.

Katie Yount, Co-Chair of the Central Fort Bend Chamber Infrastructure Department; JR Reddish, S&B Infrastructure; Phil Wilson, Executive Director, TxDOT; Chamber President Shanta Kuhl; Mayor Vincent Morales, City of Rosenberg; Justin Ring, Co-Chair of the Central Fort Bend Chamber Infrastructure Department.

UHV School of Business Administration proudly serves Fort Bend

or the past 15 years, Fort Bend County residents seeking to advance their business careers have successfully turned to the University of Houston-Victoria School of Business Administration. “Although our residential campus is in Victoria, the majority of our 900 MBA students and 1,100 undergraduates live in the Greater Houston area,” said Farhang Niroomand, dean of the UHV School of Business Administration. “Most of our face-to-face classes are held at teaching sites in Sugar Land and Katy.” The business school offers undergraduate programs in accounting, ﬁnance, health care administration, international business, management, marketing and supply chain management. Graduate students can pursue a Master of Business Administration or a Master of Science in Economic Development & Entrepreneurship. All programs are accredited by AACSB International – The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the highest accreditation business schools can achieve. “Getting my Bachelor of Business Administration means so much to me personally,” UHV alumna Lisa Schmidt said. “I learned a lot about the full picture of business – from management to ﬁnance. Getting my degree from UHV has enriched me. I’m so glad I accomplished this.”

UHV expands to Sugar Land/Katy UH Sugar Land, 14000 University Blvd., was founded in 1995 as a teaching center for the UH System. The UH System at Cinco Ranch, 4242 South Mason Road in Katy, became a system teaching center in 2001. UHV offers programs at both locations and also teaches some classes at the Houston Community College Katy campus. Massoud Metghalchi, a UHV finance professor, remembers when the university expanded to Fort Bend in the 1990s. The first business courses were taught at a rented office in Stafford. “The program grew fast,” Metghalchi said. “We moved from Stafford to Sugar Land about four years later.”

Farouk Shami, founder and chairman of Farouk Systems, speaks to students at a UHV Master of Business Administration Conference. The school has experienced tremendous growth since then. To keep up with student demand, the school has hired additional faculty members. Since Niroomand took over as dean in 2009, the faculty size has grown from 27 to 45, 40 of whom have ofﬁces at UH Sugar Land. In 2009, UHV faculty members moved into Brazos Hall, a new building on the Sugar Land campus.

UHV alumnus Chris Pemberton, right, discusses a project with MBA student Hong Thai.

Student success Chris Pemberton, director of information technology infrastructure for Situs Holdings, said earning an MBA from UHV in 2008 helped him make a transformation in thinking. “It helped me think like a business owner instead of like an employee,” he said. “If you are trying to climb the corporate ladder, regardless of discipline, you need to think like a business owner. Participating in marketing classes, among others, helped my career.” Several alumni recently launched the UHV MBA Student & Alumni Association. The goal of the new organization is to create an October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

active professional network to further promote the MBA program, extend the number of partnerships with local companies, and increase opportunities for current students and alumni. “What we want to do is support the school and its present and former students in all facets,” said Pemberton, who is president of the organization. “We want to help students and alumni obtain good-paying jobs that are long-lasting and enjoyable.” The school has approximately 4,000 alumni, about 1,000 of whom live in Fort Bend County or Katy.

University of Houston - Victoria School of Business Administration V i c t o r i a • S u g a r L a n d • K at y • On l i n e

Travis Chaka, left, Megan Randle, Ayisha Zaidi and Dwayne Zatopek celebrate their first-place win in the spring 2013 UHV Bachelor of Business Administration Conference.

A leader in online education A key factor in the SBA’s growth was its move into online education. The school was among the ﬁrst to do so, and it became so adept at this mode of instruction that in 2010, an AACSB Peer Review Team described it as a “national model for distance education and online delivery.” “The ﬂexibility of being able to take classes both face to face and online is one of the reasons why I chose UHV,” said Ben Gonzalez, a recent MBA graduate. “The other reasons were the quality and affordability of the program.” High-quality distance learning is vital for students with hectic schedules, such as Deborah Whitehead, who has a 15-year-old daughter who is active in many extracurricular activities. Whitehead also is due in January to have a second child. “Fortunately, the online offerings at UHV make it easier for me,” Whitehead said. “I can get to my daughter’s functions and my doctor’s

UHV students participate in a UHV MBA conference that included a case-study competition, luncheon and speech.

appointments without missing classes.” College publications have noted the school’s accomplishments. Recent honors include rankings in the following business publications: • Princeton Review – No. 2 Greatest Opportunity for Minority Students, and No. 10 Most Family Friendly • Entrepreneur Magazine – Top 5 Greatest Opportunity for Minorities • Fortune Small Business Magazine – No. 3 for best college aspiring entrepreneurs •GetEducated.com Best Buy in Distance Learning – No. 4 Global MBA and No. 6 BBA Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

Special events One of the unique features about the business curriculum is the case competition that all students participate in prior to graduation. Students work all semester in teams to analyze a particular company. They present their findings to a panel of judges during the competition. “The MBA and BBA conferences are the most exciting events of the school year,” Niroomand said. “Students have to use everything they learned to develop meaningful recommendations. They put a lot of time and energy into preparing these presentations. It’s great practice for real-world situations.” With financial support from the Willis Group – a Houston professional staffing firm – the school recently began a Distinguished Speaker Series. Past speakers include Farouk Shami, founder and chairman of Farouk Systems; Steven Kaufman, president of Zeus Mortgage; Herber Lacerda, president and CEO of Regency Nursing & Rehabilitation Centers; Jim McIngvale, owner of Gallery Furniture; and Michael T. Willis, chairman of The Willis Group. In an effort to make Greater Houston businesses more aware of UHV, the school hired its first executive in residence in January. Steve Ferguson, a Houston banking executive and consultant with 30 years of business experience, is helping with student internships and class projects, and with facilitating class projects for area companies. “UHV MBA students provide businesses with research, thinking and innovation,” Ferguson said. “We are developing education programs that are responsive to the needs of those businesses so that our graduates come well prepared.” To that end, the faculty is planning to implement four new MBA concentrations in fall 2014. The concentrations are oil and gas, health care administration, supply chain management and human resource management. “UHV business faculty will be working with industry professionals in these sectors to develop additional courses that will provide our students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in these areas,” Associate Dean Jeff Blodgett said. “The reception from firms we have talked with has been very positive.” For more information about the UHV School of Business Administration, call 361-570-4231 or toll-free at 877-970-4848, ext 4231, or visit the school online at www. uhv.edu/bus.

Newly formed Technology Incubator West Houston aims to build area’s entrepreneurship, job growth

iming to sustain the kind of entrepreneurial ventures likely to generate new jobs, the newly formed Technology Incubator West Houston, is set to open its doors for business in Katy on Tuesday, October 1, 2013 at 438 FM 1465, in the Brazos Valley Schools Credit Union building. Technology Incubator West Houston (TIWH) is a branch of the Katy Technology and Education Foundation (KTEF), a 501(c)(3) foundation, and its purpose is to expand Katy Area and West Houston’s support network for very early-stage businesses and cooperation with the region’s academic institutions to promote greater job growth and economic development. Meanwhile, by working directly with new West Houston-Katy area businesses, TIWH’s directors intend to position these client companies as attractive candidates for capital investment, recruitment of human resources, and the achievement

of a sustainable level of pre-tax cash flow within a two-year time frame. Lance LaCour, President and CEO of the Katy Area Economic Development Council, expressed great expectations about TIWH’s efforts to assist new area companies. “We expect Technology Incubator West Houston to have a profound impact on job creation and economic growth throughout the region for years to come,” said LaCour, who also serves on the KTEF Board of Directors, and the TIWH Board of Advisors and Mentors. The TIWH is perfectly suited for early-stage entrepreneurs such as IToriented professionals who are eager to grow their ideas and capabilities without the confines of a large corporation. It will also appeal to corporate veterans nearing retirement age who want to pursue longtime entrepreneurial goals that would require hiring their own employees. Prospective clients of TIWH are required to formally apply for assistance, submit a business plan for review and send a consultation October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

fee of $250. Within two weeks, applicants meeting the key requirements will be invited to a working session with members of the TIWH’s Board of Advisors and Mentors. Prospects accepted as TIWH clients are eligible for low cost office space and professional mentoring services. “Small business is what drives the economic engine in the U.S.,” said Art Beatty, executive director of the TIWH. “At TIWH, we want to help equip start-up companies with the tools and resources necessary to help them be successful in today’s challenging global economy. By being successful, the result is increased economic growth and job creation.” About the Katy Area EDC Founded in 2003, the Katy Area EDC’s mission is to establish the Katy area as the premiere location for families and businesses through planned economic growth and economic development. Since its inception, the Katy Area EDC has grown to 170 members and assisted in the creation of more than 12,000 jobs and more than $1.3 billion in capital investments.

Save the Date

H E A R AR

Special Guest Radio Host Matt Patrick Keynote Speaker U.S. Senator John Cornyn

EST. 1910

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

Emcee Judge Bob Hebert

ES S DIVIS

U.S. Senator John Cornyn

HIST O

N OW BER

G DIV

Safari Texas Ranch, 11627 FM 1464, Richmond

O LS

YO U

FE PRO SSI

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

DOWN T RIC

VISION

www.CFBCA.org

Every mayor in Fort Bend County will be in attendance. To secure your table contact Shannan at sstavinoha@cfbca.org or 281.342.5464.

TODAY

ONLY

And receive the Business Journal in your mailbox for

• DBA’s • Feature Stories • Special Features • Business Columns • 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

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or charge my card $25 #______________________ exp:__________ Name:_____________________________________________________ Business:__________________________________________________ Address:_ _________________________________________________ City:_ _____________________________________________________ State:________________________________________Zip:__________ E-mail:__________________________________________ cut here

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IN NAMESTHE NEWS

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

Rocket scientist to give behind the scene accounts of Apollo launches NASA launched Apollo 11 to the moon 44 years ago. What exactly did it take to accomplish this successful, history-making mission? Hear a behind-the-scenes account from one of the NASA scientists who helped make that dream a reality, at a special program at Fort Bend County Libraries’ Missouri City Branch Library on Saturday, October 19, beginning at 2:00 pm, in the Meeting Room of the library, located at 1530 Texas Parkway. In the program “Have Rocket, Will

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from earth orbit to the moon. His career then led him to Houston’s Johnson Spaceflight Center, which would later become known as the Johnson Space Center. During his years there, Cooper worked on eight Apollo missions, the Atlas Centaur, the Air Force Dyna-Soar, and the Mars rocket Retired NASA Physicist Don Cooper NOVA. For the Apollo Travel,” retired NASA physicist Don 13 mission, he provided the trans-lunar coast Cooper will share his experiences creating abort options to Houston Mission Control. the technology that helped launch Apollo 11 Cooper retired from NASA in 2002, in 1969, and the efforts that his team went and soon found a new calling – that of through to successfully bring the Apollo encouraging a new generation of students to 13 crew home safely in 1970. Cooper will pursue a future in the physical sciences. He also discuss the history of U.S. rockets, and enjoys speaking to youth groups, community his role in designing the Saturn V ascent organizations, schools and colleges, hoping guidance and trans-lunar targeting equations to inspire the technology leaders of the that would help make space travel possible. future. An Oklahoma native, Cooper became “Students do not know much about fascinated with math and science while still in Apollo since it all happened before they high school. He attended Oklahoma Baptist were born,” says Cooper. “My objective is to University, where he majored in physics and show them how it happened, emphasize that mathematics with a minor in chemistry. His education is essential, and show how math career after college took him to Huntsville, and physics solve real-world problems.” Alabama, where he worked at the George The program is free and open to the C. Marshall Space Flight Center on NASA’s public. For more information, call the branch Apollo program, developing the targeting library at 281-238-2100 or the library’s equations to guide the manned spacecraft Public Information Office at 281-341-2677.

Texas Environmental Excellence Awards accepted until October 4 Applications for the 2014 Texas Environmental Excellence Awards are now being accepted. The awards mark the highest environmental honor in the state and recognize exceptional environmental projects from all over Texas. Companies and organizations that prioritize environmental stewardship, folks who devote themselves to conserving water October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

and energy and reducing waste, communities using new ideas to keep our air and water clean; all are encouraged to apply in any of our nine diverse award categories. For questions or a sample of a winning application, call 512-239-3143 or e-mail awards@tceq.texas.gov. Apply online today at www.TEEA.org. The deadline to submit is October 4, 2013.

Sponsored By: STONEHENGE COMPANIES

www.FortBendChamber.com

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Upcoming Chamber Events

Success is just around the bend 1 YEAR

Executive Building System Kimmett Brigham, 281-261-4700 Southwest 59 Sunrise Rotary Club Conrith Davis, 832-642-3091 Community Health Choice, Inc. Karen Love, 713-295-5195 Murphy Business & Financial Corporation Paul Hammonds, 832-377-6555 Strayer University Marilyn Ishler, 281-701-5333

2 YEARS

Coal Vines Steve Marques, 281-491-0464

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Town Square Office Suites Joni Stinger, 281-566-2500

Kelley’s Country Cookin’ Loretta Kelley, 281-277-3367 JR Bullion John R. Wotford, 281-302-5448 Taco Cabana Trung Nguyen, 281-980-9683 Conditioned Air Scot Varnau, 281-561-6911

3 YEARS

The Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land Adrienne Barker, 281-313-2277 x101 Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Mu Kappa Omega Chapter Tara McDowell, 832-563-0424 Sugar Creek Auto Performance Nick Dixon, 281-208-9100 Autumn Leaves of Riverstone Luis Carrillo, 713-252-7056

4 YEARS

McGrath & Co., PLLC Mark McGrath, 713-882-6572

Milestone Member 5 YEARS

Renaissance Physician Organization - Southwest IPA Richele Rainosek, 832-553-3576 Plantation at Quail Valley Emmie Lukish, 281-208-4470 Veritas Steak & Seafood Kevin Rios, 281-491-2901

6 YEARS

Emerus 24 Hour Emergency Room Toby Hamilton, 281-277-0911 Post Oak Publishing, Inc Michael Blalock, 713-952-1916 Primrose School of First Colony Lorrie Clark, 281-565-2707

7 YEARS

The Growth Coach Glenn Smith, 281-841-6680 Engineered Construction Specialists, Inc. Leonor Poindexter, 713-627-3622 CVR Energy Angie Dasbach, 281-207-7711 H. Bradley Whatley, PC Brad Whatley, 281-494-8200 Gordon Richardson and Associates Gordon Richardson, 713-821-1700 Fort Bend Cares Laura Richard, 281-433-3363 x250

8 YEARS

Perry Homes - Fort Bend Jessica Peterson, 713-948-6645 G & A Partners David Vasquez, 713-784-1181

October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

Milestone Member 10 YEARS

Camden Sugar Grove Rosie Gonzalez, 281-240-3900 Shell Oil Company Lorri Henry, 713-546-8608 AUTOARCH Architects, LLC Michael M. Sabouni, 713-952-3366

11 YEARS

Business Network International Alva Winston, 281-343-7336

12 YEARS

Silverado Senior Living Le Riggs, 281-277-1221

13 YEARS

Noble Corporation & Noble Drilling Services Inc. Tom Madden, 281-276-6100

14 YEARS

RBC Capital Markets Jan Bartholomew, 713-651-3342

Milestone Member 15 YEARS Titanium Engineers, Inc. Mitchell Dziekonski, 281-265-2910

16 YEARS

Early, McClintic & McMillan, LLP Richard Early, 281-491-5260

18 YEARS

MetroBank, NA Mohammad Tariq, 281-565-7766

19 YEARS

SES Horizon Consulting Engineers, Inc. Epi Salazar, 713-988-5504

www.FortBendChamber.com

20 YEARS

ServiceMaster SouthWest Paulette Janak, 281-242-5777 Trent Internationale School Uttara Rangraj, 281-980-5800

23 YEARS

31 YEARS

Milestone Member 25 YEARS

32 YEARS

Literacy Council of Fort Bend County Kelli Metzenthin, 281-240-8181

Fort Bend County - Judge Brady G. Elliot Brady G. Elliott, 281-341-8610 Fluor Corporation Jim Wilkins, 281-263-1000

Marion, Montgomery, Inc. Jayme Chalkley, 713-929-6900

Contract Land Staff Brent Leftwich, 281-340-3309

Milestone Member 35 YEARS

Fort Bend Driving School, Inc. Gary Adams, 281-242-7366

21 YEARS

Fort Bend Star / Fort Bend Business Journal Michael Fredrickson, 281-690-4200

27 YEARS

Sprint Waste Services Will Swinbank, 281-277-5404

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

22 YEARS

For membership information, contact:

28 YEARS

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

Better Homes and Gardens CHAMBER OF COMMERCE S U Estate C C E S S Gary IS JUS T AROUND THE Real Greene Nikki Owen, 281-980-5050

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

BEND.

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Milestone Member

INFRASTRUCTURE BREAKFAST

DISCUSSION ON WATER FUNDING San Jacinto River Authority General Manager Jace Houston

Jace Houston, currently serves as General Manager for the San Jacinto River Authority, a public agency created by the legislature in 1937 for the purpose of developing, conserving, and protecting the water resources of the San Jacinto River basin. Prior to his appointment as General Manager, Mr. Houston was one of the Authorityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two deputy general managers and was responsible for overseeing the administrative functions of the river authority including legal, finance and accounting, information technology, risk management, and human resources, and he was also responsible for the authorityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s legislative and public relations programs.

WHEN:

Thursday, October 10th Breakfast: 7:30 - 9:00 AM

WHERE:

Fort Bend Chamber 445 Commerce Green Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77478

EVENT UNDERWRITER:

Member Reservation: $25 www.FortBendChamber.com Name Email

Non-Member Reservation: $35 Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013 Company Phone

At The Door: $40

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 Active Pest Control

Capriottiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Hand and Stone

Allstate The Richardson Agency

Consolidated Home Health

Kyle Stephens

Forever Families, Inc.

Llano Contractors, LLC

Beacon Developments, LLC

Garvin P. Stryker, Attorney at Law

Luminous Trends

Big Ben Tavern

Hamp Team

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Ted Lieb, Operations Manager 16107 Kensington Dr., PMB #144 Sugar Land,TX 77479 (281)313-0654 Pest Control

Leonard Richardson, Exclusive Agent 614 Texas Parkway, Suite 500 Missouri City,TX 77489 281-208-2800 Insurance Agencies

Altus Hospice

Mike Zazzara, Executive Director 11233 Shadow Creek Parkway, Suite 123 Pearland,TX 77584 281-493-9744 Hospice Shaz Ramji, Manager 8191 SW Freeway, Suite 201 Houston,TX 77074 713-777-2654 Real Estate, Commercial Ken Head, Partner 636 Highway 6, Suite 1000 Sugar Land,TX 77478 832-532-7855 Restaurants

Jennifer Burnett, Operating Partner 2228 Texas Dr. Sugar Land,TX 77479 (281) 242-4300 Restaurants Jonathan Willman, Client Care Coordinator 8410 Hwy 90-A, Suite 200 Sugar Land,TX 77478 281-238-8775 Home Health Care Sophia Davis-Fields, Program Director 12125 Highway 6 Ste E Fresno,TX 77545 713-661-2626 Adult Day Center

Garvin Stryker, Attorney 14090 Southwest Freeway, Suite 300 Sugar Land,TX 77478 281-340-2026 Attorney(s) at Law Rodney Hamp, Principal 2245 Texas Dr. Sugar Land,TX 77479 281-937-9800 Real Estate, Residential

October 2013 H Fort Bend Business Journal

Rafael Marquez, Owner 16525 Lexington Blvd. Suite 150 Sugar Land,TX 77479 281-265-0065 Massage Therapy Kyle Stephens, Principal 3350 Highway 6, Suite 422 Sugar Land,TX 77478 713-851-8442 Business Consultants Luis Garcia, President 2827 Cottonwood School Rd. Rosenberg,TX 77471 866-960-9451 Construction Services

Mehul Atit, Managing Director 15475 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land,TX 77479 832-500-4685 Retail, Home Furnishings

PARTYlicious Party Supplies Irfan Ali, President 5748 Highway 6 Missouri City,TX 77459 281-969-5230 Party Supplies

www.FortBendChamber.com

Physicians ER Mission Bend Julie Carr, Director of Operations 8910 Highway 6 S Houston,TX 77083 832-764-9717 Health Care

Scott & Jane Orthodontics Jane Lu, Owner 5418 Highway 6, Suite 215 Missouri City,TX 77459 832-539-6388 Orthodontists

Sleep Number

Ariel Thomas, Store Manager 16535 SW Freeway, Suite 270 Sugar Land,TX 77479 281-491-0956 Retail

STARskaters

Jim O’ Neill, Executive Director PO Box 16434 Sugar Land,TX 77496 281-415-0423 Associations

Texas Green Giant

Ayaz Ali, CEO/Co-Founder 12600 Exchange Dr., Suite 204 Stafford,TX 77477 281-201-8933 Recycling, Waste Disposal

Transamerica Logistics Inc.

Shahid Momin, President 12705 South Kirkwood Rd., Suite 150 Stafford,TX 77477 281-497-1116 International Shipping

Verizon your Wireless Colony Lakes

Charlene Moran, Area Manager 6266 Highway 6 Missouri,TX 77459 281-979-7927 Cable Television

www.FortBendChamber.com

SAVE THE DATE OCTOBER

DECEMBER

Community Resources Division

Programs and Special Events

October 3, 2013 • 7:30 am – 9:30 am Safari Texas Ranch 11627 FM 1464 Richmond, TX 77407

November 4, 2013 • 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Quail Valley Country Club 2880 La Quinta Dr. Missouri City, TX 77459

Education Division

Business and Professional Division

October 4, 2013 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Fort Bend ISD Annex Building 3119 Sweetwater Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77479

November 6, 2013 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77478

Infrastructure Division

Governmental Relations Division

County Judge Hebert’s Fort Bend Volunteer Breakfast

Update on School Finance Litigation with David Thompson

Discussion on Water Funding with Jace Houston October 10, 2013 • 7:30 am – 9:00 am Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77478

2013 Fort Bend Chamber Challenge

Understanding Office 365 with Charles Swihart

State Representatives Miller, Reynolds, Stephenson and Zerwas

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

UPCOMING EVENTS

November 12, 2013 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77478

Business and Professional Division

How to Maximize Your Website and Improve Functionality October 23, 2013 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77478

Infrastructure Division

TxDot in 2013 with Michael Alford November 14, 2013 • 7:30 am – 9:00 am Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77478

Chamber Young Professionals

Brew Tour at Fort Bend Brewing Company

October 24, 2013 • 5:30 am – 7:00 pm Fort Bend Brewing 13370 S. Gessner Rd. Missouri City, TX 77489

Chamber Young Professionals

Learning to Network with Glenn Smith

November 21, 2013 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Fort Bend Brewing 13370 S. Gessner Rd. Missouri City, TX 77489

Governmental Relations Division

Texas A&M Chancellor John Sharp

October 28, 2013 • 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77478

Fort Bend Business Journal H October 2013

For membership information, contact: Jan-Michael Jenkins 281-491-0218

Ribbon Cuttings

Beacon Developments LLC 1226 Museum Square Dr. Sugar Land, Texas 77479 713-777-2654

T Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

he Shops at Museum Square is a new retail development located off of New Territory Blvd near the University Blvd intersection, in Telfair. This retail center, undertaken by Beacon Developments LLC, is expected to be completed by Winter 2013 and is designed to provide “Class A” retail space to serve the numerous emerging residential developments in the Telfair market. Beacon Developments and its principals (pictured), Saahir Ramji, Shaz Ramji, and Irfan Umatiya, are dedicated to building quality real estate in underserved locations. A leading Houston-based vertically integrated development firm, Beacon Developments has over 15 years of combined experience in

commercial real estate. A few of the tenants that have signed on are: Telfair Dental, Rita’s Shaved Ice, Mr. Donut & Kolache, amongst others. Financing provided by Phil Davis and Michael Moleski of Community Bank of Texas (also pictured). For leasing information please contact Brian Kaplan of RADIUS Realty at 713-337-3350.

Verizon Your Wireless Colony Lakes 6266 Highway 6 Missouri City, Texas 774759 281-969-7927

one are the days when you could walk into a cellular phone store and just ask for a phone. Now, we are your technology destination. Your Wireless Inc, a Verizon Wireless Premium Retailer offers a wide variety of products. From smart phones to internet devices anywhere you go, Your Wireless has everything a customer could want to complete their wireless needs. Mobile broadband and connected devices are the way of the future and the future is here at Your Wireless! Your Wireless has a very unique business philosophy. We are a very family and community oriented company. Over the last year and a half, Your Wireless has grown leaps and bounds. With our family friendly atmosphere, customer service skills and community outreach (Both business networking and backing charitable organizations), Your Wireless has taken this model and enhanced it all over the country. From New England down to Texas, the locations Your Wireless puts up are meant to be the crown jewel of the community. Our goal is always to make sure our store is a store the community feels comfort in and are proud off. A store where they will get an experience like no other, the “Your Wireless Way”.

Looking around at the retail industry, Your Wireless figured out there was something missing. The connection between the stores and the community was not as high as we thought it could be. Countless retail stores were looked at to see what we could do better and what can we do to grow. By implementing the “Your Wireless Way”, we have grown by almost 40 locations from last February to today. All up and down the east coast extending to Louisiana and Texas. Our inspiration is the community and serving it with class and dignity. No other wireless agent is as involved in the community as we are. From the Chamber of Commerce, charitable organizations to the different business networking groups we are apart of, Your Wireless backs the community it is in and the communities have reciprocated in kind. The love and support we have received throughout the country has been amazing and it will only keep rising as we open more locations.

October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

www.FortBendChamber.com

Success is just around the Bend.

Fort Bend Volunteers! WHEN

Thursday, October 3rd Breakfast: 7:30 - 9:30AM

FORT BEND VOLUNTEERS!

WHERE

Safari Texas Ranch 11627 FM 1464 Richmond, TX 77407

We Invite You To Celebrate the Fort Bend Spirit of Volunteerism Fort Bend County Judge Robert Hebert

REGISTRATION FORM

Success is just around the Bend.

COMMUNITY LEADER: $5,000

Reserved table for TEN in premier location

Company logo featured on all event materials

Recognition at Event

COMMUNITY PARTNER: $2,500

Reserved table for TEN in premier location

Company logo featured on all event materials

Recognition at Event

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

Upcoming Chamber Events

MAXIMIZE YOUR WEBSITE AND IMPROVE FUNCTIONALITY

LEVEL SPONSORSHIP

CORPORATE UNDERWRITER: $1,000

Reserved table for TEN Company logo featured Recognition at Event in premier location on all event materials LEVEL SPONSORSHIP Learn the top ten essentials for a great website. From readability to usability, your website WHEN: is more crucial now than ever. With the ever growing impact of social media, a good website Wednesday, October 23rd Corporate Table for 10: Reservation: $50 is what makes or breaks any marketing campaign. It is$500 the tie that binds the elements

Luncheon: 11:30 - 1:00 PM together; your email newsletter, the postcard you mailed out, the twitter posts you sent, Cancellations must be made 48 hours prior to event date for a full refund to be issued and even your business card. Where do you send them to learn more or take an action? A WHERE: website can work for you or against so make sure your MAIL websiteFort bestBend represents EMAIL Davidyou Crowl Chamberyour of CommerceFort Bend Chamber FAX ATTN: David Crowl of Commerce RETURN 445 Commerce Green Blvd. companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brand and marketingdavid@fortbendcc.org goals. 281 . 491 . 0112

FORM VIA...

281.491.2497

Sugar Land, TX 77478

The top 10 essential points for your website using real world examples The one change you can make to get more conversions The #1 mistakes website designers make Two quick tweaks to get more subscribers on your website for future Christina Hawkins founded GlobalSpex, Inc. internet marketing in 1999 after working in various technical and marketing positions. She has been successful in business as a leading internet marketing strategist with many small businesses. She has maintained the same clientele for over 10 years, which is a testament to her customer service and her results. She has been a speaker and teacher for many organizations and companies helping individuals understand the intricacies of internet marketing.

LUNCHEON: $500 SPONSORSHIP

www.FortBendChamber.com

Member Reservation: $25

Reserved table for EIGHT in preferred location

Company logo featured on all event materials

445 Commerce Green Blvd. Credit card only Sugar Land, TX 77478

Christina Hawkins, GlobalSpex, Inc. Recognition at Event

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

Non-Member Reservation: $35

At Door: $40

Success is just around the Bend

2013 Fort Bend

Chamber Challenge

Monday, November 4, 2013 $5,000 - Title Sponsor(s) Underwriter

SOLD

$3,500 - Golf Glove Sponsorship $3,500 - Golf Cooler Bags Sponsorship

SOLD

$2,000 - 12oz Tumbler Glass Sponsorship* $1,500 - Cotton Golf Towel Sponsorship*

SOLD

$1,200 - Golf Ball Sponsorship*

SOLD

Early Registration Discount Ends September 30th!

$1,000 - Custom Ball Marker Sponsorship* SOLD

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Newsletter

$750 - Golf Tee Sponsorship*

$750 - Raffle Prize Sponsor*

$100 off Corporate Teams

$350 - Greens Host Sponsor*

$150 - Hole Sign Sponsor*

*(Team not included)

Hole Sign to read: _______________________________

$800 - Corporate Team - Includes 4 players, Cart, Lunch, Dinner, Drinks and Driving Range $200 - Individual Player - Includes Cart, Lunch, Dinner, Drinks and Driving Range Team Contact___________________ Company Name__________________________ Phone_______________________ Name ________________________________ Glove size____ Hand____ Email_________________________________ Name ________________________________ Glove size____ Hand____ Email_________________________________ Name ________________________________ Glove size____ Hand____ Email_________________________________ Name ________________________________ Glove size____ Hand____ Email_________________________________ Payment Options (Circle One): Amex Discover MC Visa Invoice Me Card Number:_____________________________ Exp. Date:________ City:_____________ CCVCode:______________ Cardholderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Name:_________________________________ Amount:____________ Signature: ___________________

REGISTER and PAY online at www.fortbendchamber.com Cancellations must be made 2 weeks prior to event date for a full refund to be issued

RETURN FORM VIA...

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

MAIL Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 445 Commerce Green Blvd. Sugar Land, TX 77478

October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

FAX

ATTN: Jan-Michael Jenkins 281 . 491 . 0112

www.FortBendChamber.com

DIGITAL

STUDIO

VIDEOS

Behind the Scene

By Elsa Maxey

Executive Producer Star Video Productions

Let your business be seen... it’s the expectation today

ideo has shifted the dynamics of business…its operations and of course, the way it is marketed. Its use offers an unprecedented reach, both internally and externally. Whether is posted for viewing on You Tube, a website, or shown in a variety of ways, this is a powerful tool that has taken communications to the level no longer considered new, but the expectation. Above all, keep it brief. People’s attention span is getting tested more and more each day and sometimes one’s focus becomes limited. Take a moment to recall what the average length is of a commercial these days. It’s about thirty seconds. More than that and it seems to take an eternity to wait to see it all in its entirety. So, its important to be impactful with content. Your business has powerful messages. Get them out there with

video, but do make it brief. Consider a series of succinct communications. For each of them, it’s important to be clear about the purpose of your video. Also, ask yourself, who do you want to see it and how will they see it? Will it be narrated, will there be interviews, when do you want it out, and also, what’s your budget? We’ve arrived at a time when a “show me” request is unspoken and a way of engagement. Let your business be seen and it with video. Star Video Productions in Fort Bend County is here to help you. Give us a call for a free consultation. Elsa Malakoff is a contributor to the Fort Bend Business Journal and Fort Bend Star and a Exevutive Producer of Star Video Productions. She can be reached at 281-690-4280. Go www.Starvideoproductions.com or email us elsamaxey@starvideoproductions.com.

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

MEMBER FDIC

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

Contracts provide new surge capacity, maintain stockpile for public health emergencies

HHS replenishes nation’s supply of anthrax antitoxin

he nation’s supply of anthrax antitoxin will be maintained until 2018 under Project BioShield contracts issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR). Orders placed today will replenish the stockpile of anthrax antitoxin as doses currently in the Strategic National Stockpile expire. The contracts also establish, for the first time, a surge capacity to produce antitoxin if an anthrax attack occurs. Project BioShield is the chief mechanism through which the U.S. government supports the advanced development and procurement of new medical countermeasures – drugs, vaccines, diagnostics, and medical supplies – to protect health against chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear threats. Through the Project BioShield Act of 2004, ASPR’s Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) has supported the development and procurement of two anthrax antitoxins to treat people with anthrax disease and an anthrax vaccine, as well as drugs or medical products to protect health against smallpox, botulism, and radiation injury. “Project BioShield’s long-term funding and planning encourage companies to partner with the federal government on products like anthrax antitoxin that they otherwise would not pursue, but that our nation would need in a crisis,” said BARDA Director Robin Robinson, Ph.D. “The acquisition of additional anthrax antitoxin to replenish expiring stocks will provide for greater national health security against this threat through 2018 and beyond.” Anthrax antitoxins, vaccine and antibacterial drugs will be needed to protect health in an anthrax attack. In 2001, when anthrax-laden letters were sent through

the mail, antibacterial drugs were the only products available to treat people who had been exposed to anthrax but were not yet showing signs of illness. HHS awarded the Project BioShield contracts, valued a minimum of $100,000, to Cangene Corporation of Winnipeg, Canada; Elusys Therapeutics Inc. of Pine Brook, N.J.; Emergent Product Development of Gaithersburg, Md.; GlaxoSmithKline in Research Triangle Park, N.C., and PharmAthene of Annapolis, Md. Under these contracts, HHS will order approximately $196 million in antitoxin from GlaxoSmithKline. In addition, HHS will purchase materials to manufacture antitoxin. The materials include blood plasma from Cangene for approximately $63 million and a total of $1.6 million in cells from GlaxoSmithKline, PharmAthene, and Emergent. PharmAthene and Emergent have antitoxin at earlier stages of development than the GlaxoSmithKline and Cangene products. Today’s actions build on efforts by all five companies and the federal government to develop anthrax antitoxins. Human Genome Sciences (acquired by GlaxoSmithKline) and Cangene began delivering antitoxin to the stockpile in 2009 and 2007, respectively. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved GlaxoSmithKline’s Raxibacumab, in December 2012 to treat inhalational anthrax in combination with other antibiotics in people exposed to anthrax spores. The drug also is approved to prevent inhalational anthrax infection when alternative therapies are not available or cannot be used. Cangene’s Anthrax Immune Globulin Intravenous (AIGIV) could be used with emergency use authorization from the FDA. The development of both products was supported by Project BioShield funds. To create surge capacity, the contracts October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

allow HHS to place future delivery orders if an anthrax attack occurs, in addition to replenishing the current stockpile as needed over the next five years. The cost of future orders would be determined on a caseby-case basis, up to a maximum of $350 million per order. To receive a future order, the company must have antitoxin that is eligible for emergency use authorization or is FDA-approved at the time of the order. The replenishment and surge capacity are part of a government wide effort to prepare the nation to respond to security threats from chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear weapons. Federal agencies, including HHS agencies and the departments of Homeland Security, Defense, and Veterans Affairs coordinate closely to ensure programs and requirements are aligned. BARDA provides a comprehensive integrated portfolio approach to the advanced research and development, innovation, acquisition, and manufacturing infrastructure for vaccines, drugs, therapeutics, diagnostic tools, and nonpharmaceutical products for public health emergency threats. In addition to chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear weapons, and these threats include pandemic influenza and emerging infectious diseases. HHS is the principal federal agency for protecting the health of all Americans and providing essential human services, especially for those who are least able to help themselves. ASPR is an HHS leader in preparing the nation to respond to and recover from adverse health effects of emergencies, supporting communities’ ability to withstand adversity, strengthening health and response systems, and enhancing national health security. For more information on national public health and medical preparedness, visit www.phe.gov.

SPECIAL FEATURES NOVEMBER 2013 H FORT BEND / KATY BUSINESS JOURNAL

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Fort Bend/Katy

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

DBA (Assumed Names)

Data Beat (+) = More Names

This is a sample of the Assumed Names (DBAs) filed at the Fort Bend County Clerk’s office for August 2013. More Assumed Names may be viewed online at http://ccweb.co.fort-bend.TX.us/RealEstate/SearchEntry.aspx. There were 482 Assumed Names for month of August. Mty Imperial LLC (+) Soller Roger William Regal Seafood House & Lounge Sollerphd 12350 Southwest Fwy 77477 13615 Laurel Terrace Ln 77498

Vasquez Yadira C (+) Yadi’s Mobile Notary 2514 Quail Valley East 77459

Fayyaz Jamshad Jimmy & G Auton Tech 3704 Ave H 77471

Kresse Matthew A Fairchilds Farms 10305 Oberrender Rd 77461

Chakravarty Kshetra Manash Manash Chakravarty - Builder 914 Mahogany Run Dr 77494

La & To Company LLC (+) Footopia & Nails 4120 Washington 77007

Howard Yolanda Norene (+) H And T Trucking 5103 Denoron Dr 77048

Echols Canaan (+) Under Grace Records 7102 Brockington Dr 77494

Decell Meghan (+) Md Marketing And Consulting 26107 Kingsgate Lane 77494

Fant Danny Skies Entertainments and Records 1714 Foxwood Ct 77489

Nguyen Ngoc M (+) NBA Design & Manufacturing 7819 Gable Bridge Ln 77407

Echols Tymon (+) Under Grace 7102 Brockington Dr 77494

Obilana Deborah Adunduwa Trinity Chrisitan International Schools - T.C.I.S.S 1234 Birchston Drive 77459

Olagunju Olufunmilola Tolat Ventures 21207 Knollblossom Ln 77407 Caldwell Charles E III (+) Caldwell Nursery 2436 Band Rd 77471 Soudek Adera M (+) The Shopping Cart (+) 33302 Pecan Hill Dr 77423 Temitope Alabi Ondo Corporation 16746 Quail Briar Dr 77489 Sanders William Chad Apache Fence Company 6128 Fm 723 77406 Mersiovsky Dana Dm And Associates 7915 Riverine Terrace Dr 77406 Mendez Raymond Yellow Dog Embroidery 2610 Ave F 77471 Po Hopper (+) Serve-All Services 20900 Fm 1093 Rd #14305 77407 Blue Island Pa (+) Dr Hs Cosmetic Spa 5610 Regency Dr 77479 Menifee Regina House Of Faith Realty 16726 Missionary Ridge Ln 77083 Menifee Regina Express Notaries Inc. 16726 Missionary Ridge Ln 77083 Grace Renewal Ministries Inc (+) Faith Hepsibah Fund 3211 South Main St 77477

Springs International Ministry Inc Divine Heartbeats 610 Fm 1092 #109 77477 Varughese Pulimoottil Daddy’s Pizza 610 Fm 1092 #109 77477 Springs International Ministry Inc (+) Springs Of Life Study Center 610 Fm 1092 #109 77477 Lewis Tammi (+) 3 West Campus Morale Committee 18200 Katy Freeway 77094 BBBC Business Brokers Inc (+) BBBC 610 Fm 1092 #109 77477 Ha Misun Aga Photo Studio 1249 Blalok #202 77055 Hebert Frank Jr Blue Collar Cookers 13723 Shirebrook Dr 77498 Fortees Hospitality LLC Desi Sabzi Mandi 11920 S Highway 6 Ste 600 77498 Abraham Joyson Chacko 3 R Properties 4515 Westray Drive 77459 Jimenez Yanelly Popo Rich-Rose Seamstress 310 Morton St 77469 Marsters Vanessa (+) Ikristal 2607 Old River Ln 77406 Harris Kelly C (+) Knm Interests 19901 Sw Frwy #106 77479

Downey Andrea A Tillotson Tyra IN2IT Property Investments, LLC Modern Vintage 4711 Owens Glen Ct 77545 3115 Hunters Glen Dr 77459 Ekwealor Patrick I (+) Comfort Living Homes 1138 Turtle Creek Dr 77489 Musani Muntaz (+) Phone Supply 518 Taskwood Dr 77469 Solano Kennie Hair By Kennie Barber 23930 Westhaimer Pkwy 77494 Meisgeier Constance (+) Southwest Center For Christian Studies 7218 Rolling Meadow Dr 77469 Jolivette Damien K Beyond The Performance 746 Turtle Creek 77489 Lionel Agnellus F Palace Curbing Designs 1217 Westwood Dr 77471 Ramirez Carlos By Faith Resale 2 2015 Ave H 77471 Jackson Services (+) Jackson And Son’s Lawn Service And More 3522 Cresswell Ct 77459

Gardner Stephen (+) Gardner’s Guide Service Loc 1423 County Rd 107 77488 Diversified Solutions Group LLC Pappa Charlies Barbeque LLC 6915 Springcrest Ct 77479 Alvarado Joel Joel’s Landscaping 2423 California St 77545 Gamble Sandra R (+) Mallex Realty 16107 Kensington Dr Ste 413 77479 Kraatz Alvie B III Kraatz & Associates 5314 Fairwick Ct 77450 Stiles Maghan The Insurance Coordinator (+) 3103 Cypress Point Dr 77459 Leblanc Jason Hyson (+) Lsu Tiger Tailgate - Katy 27130 Ashley Hills Ct 77441 Bowman Brenda G (+) R N R Bow-Tique 1307 Cristelia Circle 77406

Jackson Regina (+) Jackson Services 3522 Cresswell Ct 77459

Ridley Thomas Daniel (+) Whatzuppup.Com 2106 Streamhurst Ln 77479

Hajovsky Jeremy (+) Katy Coins And Collectibles 6725 S Fry Road Ste 700-351 77494

Ridley Thomas Daniel (+) Midnight Computer Services 2106 Streamhurst Ln 77479

Dela Calzada Rac Rac Services 4031 Calabria Bay Ct 77459

Leblanc Michelle Vixen Outdoors 14402 West Bellfort #514 77498

October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

Quach Yen V Yen Marble, Granite and Tile Co. 7206 Rocky Ridge Ln 77407 Thomas Philip A Philips Auto Sales 203 Present St 77489 Cowans Mitchell Keep Trucking 4611 Parkview Ct 77459 Sannoh Martin S Sierra Mobility Care & General Enterprises (Smcge), LLC 13319 Mesquite Stone Ln 77407 Lacsamana Anthony Advocation - Fort Bend 3130 Grants Lake #18631 77469 Anand Vipul Versatile Safety Products 1726 Country Club 77478 Opara Ijeoma A Fanezer El-Jireh 23918 Micazzo Drive 77406 Clarke Ventures LLC (+) Clarke Ventures 2114 Country Club Blvd 77478 Aliyev Kenan (+) Turkish Kitchen Authentic Grill 2109 Highway 6, St B 77478 Gibraltar Monex Centurion Service Ltd He Principal Trust 8303 Southwest Freeway #900 77074 Gibraltar Monex Centurion Srvice Ltd Tax Redux Network/Tax Redux Network.Com 8303 Southwest Freeway #900 77074 Grice Tracy (+) H&G Transporting 2515 School St 77461

DBA (Assumed Names)

Data Beat (+) = More Names

Jones Christie Crazycurlywonderful 23730 Hackberry Dr 77494

Mcrae James Andrew (+) Needville Blue Wahoos 14211 Cally Circle 77461

Chapa Reggie (+) Green Room Resale Po Box 19593 77496

Chatman Arthur Jr Armed Security On Bikes.Com 16402 Amy Ridge 77053

Arevalo Nicholas Road Rage Autosports 20527 Fm 1093 Ste A10 77407

Hayes John J Hayes Automotive 2410 S Main 77477

Morgan Alan H (+) GRB Properties 2607 Valley Field Drive 77479

Walker Vernell M Meloncon (+) Detrell’s Delight 910 Sycamore Ct 77489

Miles Delores M (+) Chosen Wings Travel LLC 2907 Field Line Drive 77479

Wakefield Charles Kelsey Kelsey Wakefield Allstate 101 Southwestern Blvd Ste 135 77478

Bell Rosa L (+) Bell Dedlivery 9612 Johnson Rd 77485

Coleman Tonya (+) Diamond Elegance Boutique 9319 Eaglewood Spring Dr 77083 Rice Jana (+) Katy Smash Kids 24507 Screech Owl Ct 77494 Clarke Iroro Joseph Clarke Investments 2114 Country Club Blvd 77478 Afanoukoe Miranda H Beauty Palace Hair Braiding Salon 3443 Addicks Clodine #1308 77082 Menjivar Raul J (+) Arian’s Auto Repair 16234 Pasadero Dr 77083 Clayton Stacy A (+) Righty And Tighty 22136 Westheimer Parkway #531 77450 Lumpkin Peyton (+) J. P. Enterprise 2207 Blue Water Bay 77494 Strahan Chase Michel Cut To The Chase 3735 Rocky Ledge Ln 77494 Riley Janet Jr Consulting Services 22415 Cascade Springs Dr 77494 Washington Roshonda (+) Combined Glory Assisted Living Facility 11569 Hwy 6 S Pmb #62 77498 Mathew Silas Elisha Tours & Travels 6003 Clymer Meadow 77459 Dean A Hrbacek Pc Hrbacek & Associates 130 Industrial Blvd Ste 110 77478 Katy-Fulshear Dental Center PLLC Lathrop Dental Center 28103 Huggins Heritage Ln 77441

Bravo Carlos Hernan (+) TLC Autos (+) 19930 Roycroft Ln 77407 Rodgers Robert (+) Triple B Publishing 12250 S Kirkwood Rd #1638 77477 Ell Maria S (+) Prissy’s Jewelry 3015 Clear Water Park Dr 77450 Raia Mary Lynn Carduni’s 1721 Country Club 77478 Torres Jesus J.T. Electric Company 509 Reinhard St 77471 Mbaezue Nich Chinedu Primetrust Global Technologies 14202 Ayers Rock Rd 77498 Tripp Jerry (+) Tripp Limo 13706 Fernhill Dr 77498 Brewer Elizabeth (+) Positive Transitions 3615 Shorview Ln 77459 Pastrana Alma R A & R Construction (+) 6903 Krause Dr 77489 Hudanich Jon Patrick Nthwave Industries 13710 Greenway Dr 77498 Spencer Pamela J Lone Star Sisters 2410 Hopewell Court 77406 Sheker Corp Jei Learning Center Katy - Richmond 14111 Silver Glade Ln 77498 Mystini Sunless Tanning Bar & Spa LLC (+) Mystini 78 Big Trail 77459

Duncan Curtis Ray Curt’s Car Owners Manuals 15818 Darton St 77053 Cooper Mercedes (Sf) Stay Fresh Stay Fly (Swavof) (S.F. Ent) 1918 Tower Bell Ln 77489 Morrow Steven Edward (+) Mother Nature And Friends 4800 Dogwood Dr 77471 Kashif Syed Mohammed (+) Core Enterprise 15307 Truslow Point Ln 77478 Eleos Enterprises LLC (+) Shavewise Products Company 6140 Highway 6 South Ste 80 77459 Cabral Amanda Tide Baseball 26718 Wild Orchard Ln 77494 Patterson Yolanda Premier Roofing & Construction 2403 Fall Meadow Dr 77459 Jones Jimmy Fire Um Up Pest Control 10420 Synott Rd 77498 Oilnet Field Services Inc Green Field Serivices 3526 Stanbury Place Ln 77494 Cao Nhat All Glass LLC 6302 Highway 6 Ste N 77459 Baylor Lisa A (+) Lb Designs 22136 Westheimer Pkwy #626 77450 Alba Michael C (+) Wt Cafe Sugar Land (+) 12007 Alston Dr 77477 Hershey Jason A (+) Houston Appraisal Source 2106 Barronett Bend 77478

Fraley Angela Mint Pearl Boutique (+) 4710 Topaz Trail Dr 77479 Harbour Michael D (+) Employee Benifits Of Texas 12703 Brandon Bend Dr 77489 Wozniak Chris Woz Technologies 6814 Springcrest Dr 77479 Borroto Yosvany First Reponse Towing Services 15934 Old Richmond Rd 77478 Kashif Syed (+) Core Investments 15307 Truslow Pont Ln 77478 MKM Automotive Inc Auto Max 7118 Sagewalk Lane 77479 Merchant Lamar J (+) Plam Gear Company (+) 15015 W Airport Blvd #1013 77498

Davis Priscilla (+) Prenatal Mothers Fitness 2400 Old South Drive #1324 77406 Seymore Amanda Inspiration Stage 104 Industrial Blvd Suite Q 77478 Kyila’s Corporation It’s All About U Boutique 906 Fm 359 77406 Kyila’s Corporation Be-U-Tiful Boutique 906 Fm 359 77406 Armstead Terrance (+) Wildboiz 1804 Carver Ave 77469 Armstead Terrance (+) Hood Kandy 1804 Carver Ave 77469 Hernandez Monique Bronze Ur Bod 4807 Tx-6 Suite #19 77459 Haughton Charles E Ace Contractor 3415 Argos Ct 77459 Anthony Eucharia E.Com Products 1214 Hollowood Ln 77489 Yan Lili Rainbow Promise Trading, LLC 4902 Mulberry Cir 77459

Harding Deandre D&M’s Home To School Transport (+) 9311 Eaglewood Glen Trl 77083

Esia Janet J E Shutters/J E Window Coverings 6519 Monrovia Lane 77479

Mitchell-Lott Jason The Mitch Look (+) 2007 Autumn Field Ln 77469

Redcast LLC Adventure Kids Playcare 4825 Sweetwater #20 77479

Morris-Wishart Marni L Marni Wishart 27503 Hurston Glen Ln 77494

Garcia Susana Andrade’s Auto Care 7020 Paso Del Sol #5 77083

Dellit Fawn (+) F. Dellit Designs 1702 Surrey Ct 77406

RSNN LLC Energize You Etrm 74 Bees Creek Road 77459

Turrubiate Tony (+) Tnl Total Fitness 2421 Freeway Manor Dr 77471

Garza Raquel TLS 716 Damon St 77471

Melton Frank III (+) Meltone’s Productions 4019 Dogwood Bough 77545

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

Kazemi Amir S Dr Apex Physical Rehabilitation & Wellness (+) 4610 Sweetwater Blvd Ste 120 77479

Data Beat September 2013 Sales Tax Allocation Comparison Summary Reports Sales Tax Allocation Comparison Summary reports present data about monthly local sales and use tax allocation payments to local sales taxing jurisdictions. These net payments represent monies identified for the local jurisdictions since the previous 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

Percent Change

2013 Payments To Date

2012 Payments To Date

Percent Change

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

39,532.09 9,573.67 69,469.94 947.01 102,627.95 607,961.31 36,181.65 3,480.80 4,580.24 335,449.36 1,120,856.92 17,223.83 1,313,603.80 3,451,125.75 4,265.78

34,125.16 6,856.52 44,450.37 2,526.12 94,147.79 523,632.27 34,733.46 7,815.46 5,459.20 416,974.63 995,313.41 15,165.43 1,113,525.33 3,354,559.71 0.00

15.84% 39.62% 56.28% -62.51% 9.00% 16.10% 4.16% -55.46% -16.10% -19.55% 12.61% 13.57% 17.96% 2.87% U/C

329,255.38 75,587.56 581,212.19 7,735.44 847,342.30 5,507,908.87 307,495.65 32,159.84 41,350.62 3,407,517.67 10,407,843.66 156,868.65 12,181,028.61 32,948,220.95 25,219.09

268,215.21 71,778.34 468,933.45 10,212.83 782,265.26 4,810,620.95 301,981.16 33,257.70 63,497.84 3,011,878.28 9,542,815.37 106,487.68 10,829,372.00 32,777,845.87 11,119.50

22.75% 5.30% 23.94% -24.25% 8.31% 14.49% 1.82% -3.30% -34.87% 13.13% 9.06% 47.31% 12.48% 0.51% 126.80%

COUNTY TOTAL

7,116,880.10

6,649,284.86

7.03%

66,856,746.48

63,090,281.44

5.96%

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

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

Net Payment This Period

49,457,598.28 22,830,271.31 19,273,275.23 13,185,259.90 9,252,530.35 7,291,223.07 5,718,812.97 6,285,086.93 5,506,374.24 5,840,743.26 5,704,037.45 4,782,006.14 4,506,062.22 4,770,531.64 4,478,903.97 3,894,522.60 3,451,125.75 3,431,974.97 2,734,082.42 3,172,953.56

Comp Payment Prior Year

48,321,626.03 20,264,382.68 20,171,774.66 13,387,849.58 9,057,283.84 6,956,665.60 6,070,364.82 6,099,182.42 5,265,948.08 5,161,904.00 4,926,324.31 5,054,809.00 4,323,746.25 4,130,279.97 4,736,348.34 3,827,163.25 3,354,559.71 3,284,275.49 2,663,183.59 3,182,443.56

% Change To Date

2.35% 12.66% -4.45% -1.51% 2.15% 4.80% -5.79% 3.04% 4.56% 13.15% 15.78% -5.39% 4.21% 15.50% -5.43% 1.76% 2.87% 4.49% 2.66% -0.29%

2013 Payments To Date

456,223,646.60 199,411,398.33 180,947,933.42 125,209,986.79 88,489,134.43 71,868,350.79 57,219,750.54 56,744,093.87 52,482,412.42 52,425,543.65 51,218,835.14 46,726,240.23 44,476,382.13 43,942,010.98 43,685,327.23 39,341,042.58 32,948,220.95 32,594,509.13 30,848,750.79 30,670,959.88

October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

2012 Payments Change

425,011,670.14 182,482,409.70 173,917,735.73 118,278,839.92 83,791,004.09 66,330,705.54 55,982,396.48 54,112,860.31 52,464,782.06 48,904,337.51 48,210,507.39 45,213,613.51 41,391,939.80 36,892,182.21 39,895,608.28 35,980,535.90 32,777,845.87 29,680,969.61 26,091,798.53 31,195,829.36

Percent

7.34% 9.27% 4.04% 5.86% 5.60% 8.34% 2.21% 4.86% 0.03% 7.20% 6.23% 3.34% 7.45% 19.10% 9.49% 9.33% 0.51% 9.81% 18.23% -1.68%

Data Beat

Commercial Building Permits

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

TYPE OF PERMIT

VALUE

RICHMOND

1305 Clay Street Commercial Building $1,053,382 Grand Total Valuation (Commercial)

08/01/13-08/31/13

$1,053,382

ROSENBERG 2001 1st Street 5404 Reading Rd 4316 FM 2218 639 Blume Rd 6400 Koeblen Rd

Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building

$300,000 $370,621 $220,000 $23,000 $10,000

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial)

08/01/13-08/31/13

$923,621

SUGAR LAND 2150 Town Square Pl Ste 100 16535 Southwest Fwy Ste K5552 306 Brooks St 210 Schlumberger Dr 1250 Seventh St 16730 Creek Bend Dr 15625 Southwest Fwy 16929 Southwest Fwy Ste 200 16535 Southwest Fwy Ste 2610 2110 Town Square Pl 15455 Southwest Fwy 136 Eldridge Rd Bldg 9A 136 Eldridge Rd Bldg 9B 136 Eldridge Rd Bldg 9C 136 Eldridge Rd Bldg 9D 770 Brooks St 142 Eldridge Rd Bldg 11A-F 11929 University Blvd 12946 Dairy Ashford Rd Ste 301 3701 B State Hwy 6 3699 State Hwy 6 1600 State Hwy 6 13135 Dairy Ashford Rd Ste 250 3149 State Hwy 6 4857 Sweetwater Blvd 3311 State Hwy 6 15989 City Walk 3569 State Hwy 6 14090 Southwest Fwy Ste 300 16659 Southwest Fwy Ste 371 13333 Southwest Fwy Ste 110 13135 Dairy Ashford Rd Ste 500 4660 Southwest Blvd Ste 170 4656 State Hwy 6 Ste L 9920 US Hwy 90A Ste 220B 14100 Southwest Fwy Ste 200 4710 State Hwy 6 12727 W Airport Blvd 1307 Soldiers Field Dr 16535 Lexington Blvd Ste 145 3591 State Hwy 6

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

$10,600 $35,000 $206,522 $207,943 $23,800 $35,000 $37,500 $350,000 $422,000 $750,000 $48,290 $47,598 $16,500 $34,978 $34,978 $11,821,179 $245,000 $2,978,433 $6,420 $66,320 $120,000 $47,250 $503,697 $41,500 $85,000 $150,000 $25,865 $4,008 $119,000 $97,588 $11,040 $597,507 $32,000 $20,000 $86,000 $137,717 $100,000 $270,000 $118,000 $122,400 $35,000

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial)

08/01/13-08/31/13

$19,856,633

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

Eagle Paving Addicks Services, Inc. Self Martinez Dream Homes MTZ Electric

Town Center Lakeside, LTD/N&P Sign System First Colony Mall, LLC/PCS Internation Inc. Brand Eric R & Elizabeth A/Howard Contracting Group Schlumberger Technology Corp/Hammonds Construction LLC Fort Bend Baptist Academy/Generator Supercenter (GC) Sugar Land /HP, LLC/Enertech Resources LLC (GC) Fort Bend MB Land, LP/Crossmark Devel & Constr LLC Sugar Land Properties, Inc/Steel Crete LLC First Colony Mall, LLC/Longhorn Builders Town Center Lakeside, LTD/Punditz LLC Covington First Colony Acquisition/Federal Maintenance Services Simron Properties, LLC/New York Real Estate Inc. Simron Properties, LLC/New York Real Estate Inc. Simron Properties, LLC/New York Real Estate Inc. Simron Properties, LLC/New York Real Estate Inc. Planned Community Developers Inc./Integrated Constr Concepts LP Simron Properties, LLC/New York Real Estate Inc. Rare Rosa USA, LP/Burton Construction Company Gupta Sugar Land Plaza Limited/Houston Remodeling Inc. Old Mill LP/Nirman Inc. Kroger Company #268/Daniel Romero KBS Offices at Kensington, LLC/Cannon Enterprises, Inc. GPI-M Sugar Creek, LP/O’Donnell/Snider Construction Eqyinvest Outparcel Owner, LTD/JIA Cheng Development Columbia Retail Sweetwater Plz/Worldwide Installation Inc. Eqyinvest First Colony Ownder L/Punditz LLC Town Center Lakeside, LTD/Vivas Contractors, Inc. Eqyinvest First Colony Ownder L/Diversified General Contractor Colonial Green LLC ETAL/Textron Construction Company TMH Medical Office Buildings/South Coast Const Services Inc. Sugar Creek Baptist Church/Evans Construction GPI-M Sugar Creek, LP/O’Donnell/Snider Construction FCB Fort Bend Holdings, LLC/Crossmark Devel & Constr LLC Prominent Sugar Land, LLC/GT Insulation & More Dallas Mini No 46, LTD/Loggins Construction RMC Sugarcraft LP ETAL/Schulin Contracting Serv. Inc. DPR Construction Amerisource Bergen Corp/Kajima Building & Design Group SLGD of Texas, LLC/Houston Remodeling Contractor APAAR Lexington Square, LLC/Precon Construction Services Eqyinvest First Colony Ownder L/EHS Construction LP

Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

Accounting Terri L Sibbet, CPA 713-234-0618 Office Affordable, Accurate, Timely -Bookkeeping, Payroll, Payroll Tax Returns - Quickbooks, Financials, Sales & Property Tax Returns -Tax Return Preparation. Advertising Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com Fort Bend’s ONLY business publication. Fort Bend Focus 281-690-4242 www.fortbendfocus.com Fort Bend’s ONLY feature magazine Direct mailed to almost 40,000 homes every month in Fort Bend’s most affluent subdivisions. Fort Bend Star 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com We have been delivering a free community newspaper to homes throughout Fort Bend County longer than ANY OTHER Newspaper.

SERVICE DIRECTORY

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

Colony One Auto Center P - 281-980-4440 F - 281-261-0048 www.colonyoneauto.com Are you tired of searching for a AAA approved auto repair center? Colony One Auto Center is a familyowned and operated business, having serviced more than 210,000 vehicles since 1991. The BBB has rated Colony One Auto Center its highest score, capturing an A+ rating. Angie’s List has designated Colony One Auto Center its highest rating as a “Super Service Provider,” also garnering an A+ rating. Colony One Auto Center has a complete state-of-the-art automotive repair and maintenance facility. Your search is finally over. Bring your vehicle to Rod Tate at 1131 Dulles Avenue, Stafford, 77477. First Tire & Automotive 281-313-2886 www.firsttireandauto.com Craig Popp, owner, 3 Sugar Land Locations. 960 Eldridge, 281-313-2886 & 2303 Williams Trace Blvd. 281-980-2666 (First Colony), 20015 Southwest Freeway. 281-343-5666 (Greatwood), Diagnostic testing and evaluation, Manufacturer’s routine recommended maintenance, domestic and foreign vehicle repairs, AAA approved, ASE certified. Ask about our Fleet Service! Banks The State Bank of Texas 281-494-6686 www.tsbot.com nbb@tsbot.com. Nicki Black, 13010 Murphy Road, Stafford, TX 77477, Fax: 281-494-6747. Locally and independently owned - our prime interest is you! Economic Development

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

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

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

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Employment Services Carlton Staffing www.carltonstaffing.com swhou@carltonstaffing.com. 10707 Corporate Dr., #101, Stafford, TX 77477. Need a job? Have an open position that you can’t fill? Carlton Staffing can help. At Carlton Staffing, we make connections that work! Carlton Staffing is proud to be a local company that focuses on quality over quantity. We have been in business for more than 30 years providing temporary, temp-to-hire, direct hire and payrolling services. Catering Salata www.salata.com Salata is a fresh and unique way to eat healthy and create your own freshly prepared hand tossed salad or salad wrap. Offering over 50 toppings of fruits and vegetables with the option to add chicken or seafood. Salata’s Signature Dressings, Soups and Sauces are made in house and are Gluten Free. We cater and deliver for any occasion including business meetings or training sessions. In a hurry? Go to Salata.com and we’ll have your order prepared and ready to go. We are conveniently located across from the Marriott and in the corridor of the Coca-Cola/ Minute Maid building. For catering service contact Vilma (cell) 832-279-5323, Fax: 832-886-4591, Email: Sugarland@salata.com. Country Clubs & Golf Courses Quail Valley Golf Club 281-403-8518 (Direct) 281-403-5910 (Golf Shop) www.golfquailvalley.com Quail Valley Golf Course offers 36 holes of championship golf, a full practice facility, lessons and a fully stocked golf shop. The Missouri City Community Center at Quail Valley Golf Course hosts the Bluebonnet Grille at the 37th Hole, multiple event rooms as well as the 300 seat Magnolia Ballroom. Quail Valley Golf Course and the Missouri City Community Center are the perfect sites for your next meeting or big event. For more information visit www.golfquailvalley. com Quail Valley Golf Course 2880 La Quinta Dr. is located at Missouri City, TX 77459. Riverbend Country Club 281-269-2526 www.riverbendcountryclub.org triciarbcc@gmail.com. Tricia Hawks, 1214 Dulles Avenue, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Conveniently located in the heart of Sugar Land, Riverbend Country Club is just 25 minutes south of downtown Houston, Texas. Established in 1957, Riverbend continues its tradition as Fort Bend County’s only member owned club. Whether

Floral Flowers By Tiffany LLC 281-208-8681 www.FlowersByTiffanyStafford.com 13230 Murphy Road, Suite 400, Stafford, TX 77477. 281-208-8681. 2011 CMUS Power Award Winner – Internet Customer Service Award. Beautiful Flowers for all occasions, Weddings, Events, Funerals, Plants, Fruit & Gourmet Baskets. Member of the Better Business Bureau and Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce. Mention the Fort Bend Business Journal for a special discount. Foundations / Sprinklers Root Wall Pro 832.776.2338 www.RootWallPro.com 3346 East T.C. Jester D-47, Houston, TX 77018. Stop! Before you uproot your mature trees as the solution to your foundation issues, call us! Simply adding peers to a faulty foundation is a misguided, incomplete solution when trees are also a part of the puzzle. One needs to also address mature tree roots. We can handle any size job in solving deep root foundation structure issues. Adding a deep root watering systems to your sprinkler system or any Root Wall Pro foundation watering system is crucial. With more than 20 years experience, Root Wall Pro offers the perfect solution to faulty foundations with our perfected barrier system and root watering system. Keep your mature trees (at a distance from your home) that add value to often your biggest investments--your home and business. Root Wall Pro is endorsed by Randy Lemmon and other local engineers. We also offer financing. We’ll alleviate your worries and give you the solution you need. Call us. You won’t be disappointed and will see the results quickly! Golf Carts / Mobility Scooters CBC Golf Cart Services, Inc. 281-494-1164 Scooters by CBC 281-494-3454 Fax 281-494-1189 www.cbcgolfcarts.com; www.mobilityscooters.com chris1001@windstream.net, 203 Ulrich Street, Sugar Land, TX 77498 (Behind Imperial Sugar). CBC offers Sales, Service, New & Used, Rentals (daily, monthly or yearly) and Parts for two lines of products, GOLF CARTS and MOBILITY SCOOTERS. Authorized Dealer for Merits and Pride Mobility products. We rent all sizes of golf carts from 2-8 seaters and also shortand long-cargo boxes. Glass Block/Showers/Windows South Texas Glass Block 281-355-8882 www. stglassblock.com We offer complete glass block solutions, providing excellent

service and product to all of our customers. We have been in business since 1995, serving the entire Houston and surrounding areas. Our excellent workmanship is unmatched both in the commercial and residential arena. No job is too big for South Texas Glass Block. Home Health Care Texas State Healthcare & Hospice Care 281-208-4344 or 979-323-7099 www.txstatehealthcare.com What we do: Skilled Nursing - Home Health Aide Physical/Speech/Occupational Therapies - Medical Social Worker assisting with durable medical equipment needs and helping to provide Resources & Services in the Community - Wound Care - Catheter Care - Diabetic Care Lab Services - IV Therapy and more... “Hometown Nurses Helping Hometown People” Home Inspection Services Armadillo Home Inspection Services 281-342-9955 Stan Snyder Licensed Professional Inspector TREC # 5285 inspectorstan@sbcgloal.net “A Home Inspection Saves You $$$!”

Insurance Agencies Prince Benefits Group 281-325-0384 www.princebenefitsgroup.com Insurance Agency, that works with individuals & companies to purchase health, dental, vision, life & 401K. We represent Aetna, BCBS, United Healthcare, Guardian, Humana, Principal and many others. Don’t pay a 2014 TAX Penalty for being uninsured due to the new Healthcare Reform laws. Call us for affordable credible coverage. Insurance Solutions of Texas 281-565-2222 • 281-341-5060 www.insurancesolutionsoftexas.com Jay Harris, Auto, Home, Business, Flood Insurance. 14140 Southwest Freeway, Suite 150, Sugar Land, Texas 77478. 281-565-2222, Fax 281-565-3333. 2515 Ave. H, Rosenberg, Texas 77471. 281-3415060, Fax 281-341-5558. Jewelers Gold Connection Jewelers 281-344-9900 • We Buy Gold www.goldconnection.net We are a full-service jewelry store in your neighborhood. We offer diamonds, gold and silver jewelry and watches. Repairs are done on our premises. Custom design is our specialty. We offer front door parking for your convenience. Our hours are M-F from 10:00-6:00 pm and again on Sat from 10:00-4:00 pm. We are located at 206 Hwy 90A, Richmond, 77406. Come see our fabulous inventory!

Magazine Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com Fort Bend’s ONLY business publication. Reaching over 10,000 businesses monthly. The place to advertise to reach the vital Fort Bend County business community. Fort Bend Focus - 281-690-4242 Pearland Focus - 281-690-4242 Focus on Women - 281-690-4242 www.fortbendfocus.com Fort Bend’s ONLY feature magazine Direct mailed to almost 40,000 homes every month in Fort Bend’s most affluent subdivisions. Nature’s Pest Control Nature’s Own Pest And Lawn Service 281-656-2847 www.naturesownpestcontrol.org 18035 W. Little York Rd. Ste. F, Katy, TX 77449. Using an exterminator that will practice the safest and most natural techniques for pest control can be reassuring and October be the only consideration for those who are determined to live green in every way. Natural pest control with the best guarantee in the business. At Nature’s Own, we will eradicate your bugs and make your home bug free once again. Don’t lose any sleep over these pesky bugs. Call Nature’s Own today. Mention Fort Bend Business Journal and receive a special discount.

SERVICE DIRECTORY

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

Newspaper Fort Bend Star 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com We have been delivering a free community newspaper to homes throughout Fort Bend County longer than ANY OTHER Newspaper. Open MRI Upright MRI of Sugar Land 281-494-0505 www.mri911.com CLAUSTROPHOBIC? Upright MRI is the only True OPEN MRI in Sugar Land. We scan patients standing, sitting, or lying down. For the first time, patients can be scanned in weight-bearing postures and in their position of pain. It is ideal for patients who have difficulty lying down due to respiratory or cardiac problems. Mention this ad and receive $25 off your first scan. 2655 Cordes Drive #150, Sugar Land, 77479. Open Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

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Real Estate / Residential

Optometrists Elissa R. Wedemeyer O.D., FCOVD, F.A.A.O 281-499-2600 www.drwedemeyer.com 6026 Hwy. 6 Missouri City, TX 77459. Therapeutic Optometrist; Visual Perceptual / Binocular Therapy; medical management of eye infections and diseases. The office has a large selection of fashion frames. Pharmacies Ed’s Pharmacy 281-499-4555 Ed Sziy, 3740 Cartwright, Missouri City, TX 77459, Fax: 281-499-7088. Physicians

SERVICE DIRECTORY

Immunizations & Drug Testing IMU Southwest, The IMUnization Clinic 281-313-7468 www.houstonvaccines.com houstonvaccines@gmail.com. 3727 Greenbriar Dr., Suite 403, Stafford, TX 77477- Vaccines for children and adults for school, fertility, work, immigration, or travel needs. Daytime, Evening, and Saturday hours and no wait appointments available. Vaccine titers and Drug Testing for individuals or corporations. Certified Drug Testing Center & CDC Designated Yellow Fever Provider. We perform oral HIV testing also. Mobile onsite clinics available for churches and corporations. We are now in network with Blue Cross & Blue Shield. Printers / Graphics Star Printing 281-690-4200 www.fortbendstar.com We professionally design and print flyers, postcards, brochures, magazines, newspapers and catalogs in high-quality digital graphics.

To be listed call Barbara J. Carlson

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

Hall of Fame, ABR, BROR, GRI, SRES RE/MAX Fine Properties. Angie@HoustonHomeSales.net Celebrating 20 years in Real Estate Home Staging Specialists!

Colliers International, formerly Curtice Commercial Real Estate 281-494-4769 kcurtice@curticecommercial.com. Kolbe M. Curtice, CCIM, CLS, 15999 City Walk, Suite 250, Sugar Land Square located at U.S. Highway 59 & State Highway 6, Fax: 281-494-3227, Brokerage, Development, Investment and Tenant Representation, 25 years experience in Fort Bend. Riverstone Development Co. 281-499-8700 www.riverstone.com tomw@johnsondev.com. Tom Wilcox, 4855 Riverstone Blvd, Missouri City, Texas 77459, Fax: 281-499-8704, Luxurious waterside living in Fort Bend from $200s to the many millions. Jeanne Gregory, CRS, GRI 281-344-8918 www.jeannegregory.com jeannegregory@earthlink.net. 14905 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, Texas 77478, Fax: 281-242-6754, Re/Max Southwest. Residential real estate sales & corporate relocation. Jennifer Weaver, ABR, CRS, GRI 281-207-5037 www.jenniferweaver.com RE/MAX Southwest, 14905 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, Texas 77478. Residential sales and corporate relocation since 1979. Remodeling / Outdoor Living Living Improvements - 281-499-7000 www.living-improvements.com AWARD WINNING - 2010 & 2011 Houston’s BEST “Outdoor Living Space” Living Improvements’ commitment to excellence makes us the perfect fit for your building needs. We have over 200 years cumulative in-house experience in the remodeling and construction industry making us highly skilled, professional and detail oriented striving to exceed our customer’s expectations. We feature outdoor living spaces, custom homes, interior and exterior renovations. Our commitment to excellence is just one of the reasons we have over 5,000 satisfied customers. SERVING FORT BEND & SURROUNDING COUNTIES FOR OVER 35 YEARS.

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Tree Removal / Stump Grinding / Professional Pruning and Tree Feeding R. H. Tree Service - 832-277-6947 Tree removal, stump grinding, pruning and tree feeding are procedure specific and the result can be cost prohibitive when hiring a service that does only “surface” work and lacks proper expertise. With 20 years of experience, you can count on our consistent, reputable and professional crew. We are both insured and have excellent references. We handle all commercial and residential tree services, tree removal (no matter its height), proper procedural stump grinding, professional tree pruning and we have the experience and knowledge how to feed your trees that are undernourished or at a distressed level. Call the professional crew that you can count on! No job is too big or too small. Video Services Star Digital Studios 281-690-4280 www.starvideoproductions.com A full service video production studio providing all phases of video production including professional writing, videography, editing, DVD duplication, distribution; also video deposition services to the legal community. For video needed for a TV commercial, website posting, employee training, promotional DVDs, special presentations, coverage of live events/ trade shows, or corporate videos, give us a call. If you are interested in something you do not see on our website, let us know and we’re ready to accommodate your needs! Water Softening and Purification Systems RS Water Service 281-416-9353 www.rswaterservice.com info@rswaterservice.com R & S Water Service is a Full Service Licensed Water Treatment Company. We offer Cost-Effective and Long-Lasting Water Softeners. We are 30%-50% less expensive than other water softening companies and we offer the best customer service even after the sale! Sales, Service and Installation of Water Softeners, No Salt Conditioners, Reverse Osmosis Systems, Well Water Systems, Ambassador II Chem-Free Iron Filter Systems and Chloramine Removal Systems. We also can test and repair Back Flow devices. For other services or any questions please contact us. 281-4169353 or info@rswaterservice.com. **List with the BBB. **Licensed members of the TWQA Texas Water

12 MONTHS LISTING FOR ONLY $300

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

Aling’s Hakka Chinese Cuisine Welcome to Sugar Land’s first Hakka Chinese Restaurant! Using family recipes, Chefs Lin Motiwala and Gary Yan present this unique “Chindian” cuisine, a delicious fusion of both Chinese and Indian cookery (without the curry undertones). From savory steamed or pan fried Dumplings to traditional Indianstyle Hakka dishes, as prepared in Bombay/ Pune, like Chicken Lollipop, as well as American Chop Suey, each dish is prepared using the freshest ingredients to bring you a dining experience like no other. Lunch specials start at $6.95 for a 4 course meal. Open Tuesday - Sunday. Lunch: 11am-3pm (TuesFri). Dinner: 5:30pm-10pm (Tues-Thurs & Sun) and 11pm (Fri & Sat). Aling’s is located in the First Colony Commons shopping center at Hwy 59 and Williams Trace Blvd. between Home Depot and Office Depot. 15425 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land. Call 281-2420432. www.alingshakka.com. $$ AURA Restaurant Chef/Owner Frédéric Perrier brings over 30 years experience to his newest venture AURA. In an upscale yet casually comfortable setting, Innovative American Cuisine reigns and is highlighted in the numerous Daily Specials. AURA features only the finest, freshest ingredients. A three course prix fixe lunch for $12.95 to Mussles Marinieres, Roasted Red Snapper or Filet Mignon with Cognac Peppercorn Sauce. No need to go to Houston or into Sugar Land for a truly high

quality dining experience... you will easily find it at AURA (without ‘Big Restaurant’ prices!) at Township Square - Missouri City. Lunch Mon-Sat 11-2. Dinner Mon-Thurs 5-9 and Fri-Sat 5-10. Please call for Reservations &/ or Catering ~ 3400 FM 1092, 81-403-AURA (2872). $$ • WB BLU Restaurant | Lounge BLU boasts a globally influenced, Euro-Asian menu from acclaimed Executive Chef Junnajet “Jett” Hurapan. With a diverse background that spans cuisine from Thailand to New American and Mediterranean, Chef Jett’s dinner menu offers an extensive array of both small and larger plates perfect for sharing. Looking for a great deal, come enjoy an incredible threecourse lunch menu for $12 Tues - Fri, and $4 happy hour menu Tues - Sun. BLU recently started a Live Jazz Sunday Brunch from 11am to 3pm! Visit www.blusugarland.com ~ 2248 Texas Drive - 281.903.7324. $$ • WB Cafe India Come enjoy the best Indian food in Fort Bend County! Sultan Momin is not only the friendly owner but also one of the experienced chefs in this quiet, very clean family-owned restaurant. Cafe India offers an excellent, fresh lunch buffet selection from 11:00-2:45 every day (except closed on Tuesday). From Monday-Thursday, come in and have an a-la-carte dinner and then enjoy a free dessert! Cafe India has not only received excellent reviews but is affordable and Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal H October 2013

specializes in catering for any event. There is no better Tandoori Chicken, flavorable vegetable samosas, lamb dishes or biryani in town! Cafe India offers an excellent meal selection for two or four people. Cafe India is also open for dinner Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 5:00-9:30 p.m., and then on Friday and Saturday from 5:00-10:00 p.m. Affordable, fresh, authentic Indian food while also offering wine and beer in a relaxed atmosphere. Cafe India is located at 2319 Williams Trace, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Call 281-565-5881 or visit www.cafe-indiarestaurant.com. $ • 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 Fernando’s Latin Cuisine We are pleased to announce the arrival of Fernando’s Latin Cuisine-An exotic culinary adventure! Started by, Fernando Echeverria, continued, on page 64

FOOD, DRINK, ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE the same owner of Los Andes by the Compact Center in HoustonAnother wonderful Latin American restaurant. Fernando’s Latin Cuisine is located in the same building where Ruth’s Chris used to be. Featured dishes include Empanadas appetizer, Fileton, (Filet mignon) and Asada Y Camarones, Casually called the surf and turf. 14135 Southwest Freeway, in Sugar Land. 281-494-9087. wwww.fernandosrestaurants.com. $$ • FB

Hoggs n’ Chicks At Hoggs & Chicks, we have a casual atmosphere for everyone’s dining pleasure. We serve a delicious and original French/Southern influenced cuisine that satisfies those with ‘Small Bites’ to those with a Larger Appetite. As we like to say; “Southern Fried with a French Twist” – Frédéric Perrier (chef)! Hours Monday-Thursday 11am – 8:30pm, Friday 11am – 9pm, Saturday 10:30am – 9pm, Sunday 10:30am – 8pm. 8817 Hwy. 6 Suite 900, Missouri City, TX 77459. (281)778-4644. Visit us online at www.hoggsnchicks.com/. $$ Las Haciendas Mexican Bar & Grill Santos Escobar and his brother Ascension Escobar serve up dozens of heaping traditional gourmet Mexican plates. Lunch Specials run weekdays from 11am - 3pm. Great margaritas, fajitas and much more. Catering available as well as a party room for private parties. • 12821 Southwest Freeway. 281-240-3060. $ • FB Lupe Tortilla Do you want to experience the best Mexican food surrounded in the most relaxing ambiance! Then Lupe Tortilla is your choice! With two excellent locations off I-10 at 9313-A Katy Freeway; 713.491.6165; and now in Sugar Land at 15801 SW Freeway, 281.265.7500. If you haven’t tasted our world famous lime-pepper marinated beef fajitas that are shipped overnight to our grill, you’ve truly missed out! Visit us online at www.lupetortilla.com. It’s an experience you don’t want to miss out on! $$ Veritas Steak & Seafood The Rios family invites you to come and experience a superb quality cuisine and impeccable service combined with an elegant and warm ambiance at Veritas Steak & Seafood. Join them for a wonderful culinary adventure featuring USDA certified prime beef,

chops, fresh seafood, soups, sandwiches, salads and an outstanding wine selection. They are open for both lunch and dinner Monday – Thursday 11:00 – 10:00 pm, Friday 11:00 – 11:00 pm, Saturday 4:00 – 11:00 pm, and closed on Sunday. Partake in their happy hour specials from 4:00 – 7:00 pm Monday – Saturday. 1550 Lake Pointe Parkway, Suite 500, Sugar Land • Call 281-491-2901. www.VeritasSteakandSeafood.com. $$ • FB Tradicao Brazilian Steakhouse Tradicao Brazilian Steakhouse is the premier steakhouse in Fort Bend. Tradicao, pronounced Tra-dee-son, was named after the Brazilian word for “tradition” and founded on the idea to continue this traditional way of grilling. They are a family owned and operated churracaria whose goal is to make sure your dining experience is one you will never forget. Their prixe fixe menu includes 14 cuts of perfectly grilled meats brought to your table side, a large salad bar and hot sides. Private dining and catering is available. Tradico would like to invite you to come join them, sit back and relax. Lunch MonFri 11am-2pm and Sun 12-3pm. Dinner Mon-Thurs 5-9:30pm, Fri 5-10pm, Sat 4-10pm, Sun 5-9pm. Phone: 281-277-9292. 12000 Southest Freeway, Meadows Place, TX, 77477, www.TradicaoSteakhouse.com. $S • FB Salata Salata is a fresh and unique way to eat healthy and create your own freshly prepared hand tossed salad or salad wrap. Offering over 50 toppings of fruits and vegetables with the option to add chicken or seafood. Salata’s Signature Dressings, Soups and Sauces are made in house and are Gluten Free. We cater and deliver for any occasion including business meetings or training sessions. In a hurry? Go to Salata.com and we’ll have your order prepared and ready to go. We are conveniently located across from the Marriott and in the corridor of the Coca-Cola/ Minute Maid building. We are attached to Lone Star parking garage with FREE parking. For catering service contact Vilma (cell) 832279-5323, Fax: 832-886-4591, Email: Sugarland@salata.com. $ Yong’s Asian Fusion “Yong’s Asian Fusion is located at FM 1093 between Bois D’arc & Cross Creek, 29615 FM 1093, Fulshear, Texas. Delivery available SundayThursday with minimum order of $25.00. Hours: Closed Mondays; Tues-Thurs 11-2pm, 4:30-9pm; Fri & Sat 11-10pm; Sunday 11-9pm. Call 281-346-8196 or yongsfood1@yahoo.com $ • FB

October 2013 H Fort Bend / Katy Business Journal

We’re taking mammograms to a whole new dimension. 3 - D MAM MOG R AM S

Now available at St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital According to the American Cancer Society, the early detection of breast cancer saves thousands of lives each year. One of the newest tools in this effort is 3-D mammography, or tomosynthesis, which is now available at St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital. 3-D mammograms allow physicians to take images from different angles, providing sharper, better quality results and a reduction in “false positives.” The new technology is recommended for women with dense breast tissue and allows physicians to view images with pinpoint accuracy in order to detect smaller tumors earlier. See if a mammogram is the answer for you. Call 281-637-7001 today for an appointment.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month! St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital invites you to take charge of your health by scheduling your annual mammogram.

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