September 2010 - The Business Lifestyle Magazine Digital Edition

Fort Bend/Katy

Volume 28 • No. 9

THE BUSINESS LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

SEPTEMBER 2010

Breakthroughs in Cardiovascular Care at An affiliated team of highly skilled and board-certified cardiovascular surgeons and cardiovascular anesthesiologists at Memorial Hermann Heart & Vascular Institute-Southwest offers proven success in a variety of procedures.

Heart & Vascular Institute Southwest

Photo by Larry Pullen Photography

INSIDE STORIES

n Fort Bend Successful Men in Business n More Than Just a Piece of Plastic n $4 Million For Sugar Land Town Center Mobility Project n ACHIEVE Fort Bend Sets Sept. 29 Workshop n Del Webb Sweetgrass: A Houston Area First $4.95

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

HOSPITAL EMERGENCY CARE

Without the Wait Average Wait Time 10 Minutes or Less Quality, Compassionate Care, Around the Clock Private Exam Rooms Comfortable Family Waiting Areas community hospital 5 minutes down US-59 from Sugar Land

IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR AWARD WINNING HOSPITAL SERVICES, CONTACT US TODAY.

INSIDE FRONT

Williams Way Campus 22003 Southwest Freeway Richmond, TX 77469 South on US 59 to Williams Way, 5 minutes from Sugar Land

PHONE: (281) 341-2000 PHYSICIAN REFERRAL: (281) 341-4800 www.oakbendmedcenter.org

T

Texas Direct Auto named $20,000 Cornerstone Sponsor at Fort Bend County Fair & Rodeo

exas Direct Auto, the nations’ largest independent car dealership located in Fort Bend County, has signed on as a Cornerstone Sponsor of the 2010 Fort Bend County Fair & Rodeo and has donated $20,000 in part towards the Fort Bend County Fair scholarship program!

A primary focus for Texas Direct Auto is providing opportunities for higher education to youth in the Fort Bend County community. Now, this unique partnership with the Fort Bend County Fair will help finance a number of scholarships awarded to local qualifying youth, a long standing tradition of the Fair. Annually, thirty scholarships are awarded to high school youth through the Fair.

Texas Direct Auto prides itself on taking the hassle out of car buying and believes that education is a vital part of our community and youth education is a primary focus of fair activities. Texas Direct Auto Director of Business Development Jessica DeMarr states, “In recent years, the development of the scholarship program through the Fort Bend County Fair has provided qualifying county students with scholarships to Texas colleges and universities. Our own scholarship program, ‘Scholarship Stars’ in association with the Fort Bend/Katy Business Journal and Fort Bend Focus Magazine, emphasizes how we feel about helping students increase their educational opportunities.”

2010 Fair President Elizabeth Duff Drozd spoke about the sponsorship saying, “We are very excited to have Texas Direct Auto as a new sponsor of the Fort Bend County Fair this year. Their contribution will assist our organization in supporting the youth of Fort Bend County as well as promoting the Fair activities.” Drozd added that Saturday, September 25th has been named Texas Direct Auto Day at the Fort Bend County Fair & Rodeo.

Jessica DeMarr said, “We’re also pleased to announce that Michael Garfield, the High Tech Texan and Texas Direct Auto’s official spokesperson, has been named as Parade Marshall. He will lead the opening day parade on September 24th.” In addition to their commitment as Cornerstone sponsors, Texas Direct Auto will also provide the following: • Host all Fair Queen Candidates at Texas Direct Auto ticket stop to help them sell their tickets resulting in scholarships.

• Provide food and prizes for seniors on Senior Citizens Day for the Sept. 20th event.

• Provide prizes for students on Student Fun Day for the Sept. 24th event.

• Bandanas for Special Citizens Day for the Sept. 24th event.

• Sponsor the Stick Horse Rodeo for children ages 2-6 by providing the children’s stick horses and bandanas for the October 2nd event.

• Co-sponsor and participate in the BBQ cook-off on October 1-2.

The Fair takes place September 24 through October 2 at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds. Find complete details at www.fbcfa.org.

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

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

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

Subscribe

TODAY And receive the Business Journal in your mailbox for

ONLY 25 $

for 12 issues (1 year)

• DBA’s • Feature Stories • Business Columns • Service Directory • Fort Bend Chamber Newsletter • Land Transactions • Building Permits Mail with your check payable to: Fort Bend Business Journal 4655 Techniplex Dr., Suite 300 • Stafford, TX 77477

Fort Bend/Katy

or charge my card $25 #________________________________________________ exp:_______________________________ Name:_ _______________________________________________________________________________________________ Business:______________________________________________________________________________________________ Address:_ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ City:__________________________________________________________________________________________________ State:_______________________________________________________________ Zip:_______________________________ E-mail:_________________________________________________________________

2

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

cut here

September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

3

C O N T E N T S

Fort Bend/Katy

Cover Story Breakthroughs in Cardiovascular Care at Memorial Hermann Heart & Vascular Institute - Southwest

Special Feature Fort Bend Banking & Financial Services

Volume 28 • Number 9 • September 2010 For subscriptions send check for $25 to Fort Bend Business Journal

pg.

32 9 28

. .........................................................

Fort Bend Successful Men in Business.........................................................

Inside Stories

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

PUBLISHER.................................... Beverly Carter GENERAL MANAGER............Michael Fredrickson EDITOR ...........................................Sharon Wallingford ADVERTISING DIRECTOR ....................... Dean West

Sugar Land Gets $4 Million For Town Center Mobility Project.................................................. 5 OakBend Receives Get With The Guidelines Gold Plus Performance Achievement Award.........................................................................17 First Robotic Colorectal Cancer Surgery Performed At Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.......................................................................18 Continued Growth In Katy ISD Pushes A Bond Election For November 2....................35 Fort Bend BIG SHOTS - Aliana Business Blender.....................................................................41 ACHIEVE Fort Bend Sets September 29 Countywide Workshop..........................................45 Del Webb Sweetgrass Brings Resort-Style Living For Nearly 3,000 New Residents......56 There’s A Lot Brewing With This Katy Family.............................................................................58

MARKETING CONSULTANTS................ Dottie Childs ........................................................Ann Sturrock RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST.........................................Becky Hall COLUMNISTS.................................. Kolbe Curtice ....................................................Alan Sandersen ...........................................................Linda Starr ..................................................Tim Stubenrouch CONTRIBUTORS . .......................Wayne Chandler .......................................................... Elsa Maxey

Monthly Columns

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

Tim Stubenrouch

Kolbe Curtice CCIM, CLS

Money Talks Discusses More Than Just A Piece of Plastic........................... 14

Commercial Real Estate Discusses Fort Bend Commercial Real Estate Has The Recession Created.

Value Opportunities?..................... 38

Alan Sandersen

Linda Starr

Tax Smart Discusses Over 20,000 Texas Nonprofits Will Lose Tax Exempt Status On Oct 15Th– And Many Of Them Don’t Even Know It..... 36

Certified Master Coach

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

Discusses Summer's Over!............................. 40

Monthly Departments Fort Bend Chamber Newsletter.......................................................................... 19-26 Data Beat........................................................................................................... 46-49 Names in the News........................................................................................... 50-51 Newsworthy.............................................................................................44, 52 & 53 Service Directory............................................................................................... 54-55 Dining and Entertainment................................................................................. 61-63

4

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

ON THE COVER An affiliated team of highly skilled and board-certified cardiovascular surgeons and cardiovascular anesthesiologists at Memorial Hermann Heart & Vascular Institute-Southwest offers proven success in a variety of procedures.

Photo by: Larry Pullen

©2010 Fort Bend Business Journal Magazine No material from this publication be copied or in any way reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

Sugar Land gets $4 million for Town Center Mobility Project

By Elsa Maxey

W

ith the city budget operating under a new normal, a coined expression about adapting to today’s economic conditions, the announcements of Sugar Land receiving State and federal grants totaling $4 million for a pedestrian and bicycle project in the Town Center area was great news.

“We’ve worked very hard to bring this to our City,” said council member Jacqueline Baly Chaumette. “It is no secret that I’ve been advocating for more hike and bike trails and sensible mobility for years,” she said about a project that will provide safe, convenient access for pedestrians and bicyclists within Sugar Land’s business district. This will eventually connect to a larger hike and bike trail system throughout the city, states city officials.

The $4 million are from the Texas Department of Transportation’s Transportation Enhancement and the Federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality programs. Each will contribute approximately $2 million. More specifically, these funds will be used for sidewalk and path improvements between Sugar Land Town Square, First Colony Mall and the AMC Theatre. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), which administers the federally funded programs, focused on awarding the funds to efforts representing opportunities for nontraditional transportation related activities. The project was awarded based on criteria that includes going above and beyond standard transportation activities and integrating them into the environment in a sensitive and creative manner that contributes to the livelihood of the community, also enhancing the aesthetics of the roadways.

The city improvements will also include 10-foot wide paths for bicyclists and pedestrians. They will be added on the north and south bound frontage roads along U.S. Highway 59 from Williams Trace Boulevard to Bullhead Slough, also known as “Ditch H,” reports the city. Continental-style, that is, striped crosswalks are proposed to be constructed at paths intersecting streets and driveways.

With the funds, special enhancements, including illumination and pedestrian barriers, will be added at State Highway 6 and Sweetwater Boulevard for passage under U.S. Highway 59, stated a spokesperson for the city.

The improvements will connect to the city’s existing and planned hike and bike trail network, which the city indicates will offer more recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.

According to the city, the improvements were originally identified in a 2007 study it conducted with the Houston-Galveston Area Council to improve the city’s pedestrian and bicycle safety and mobility.

Council member Chaumette serves as the city council’s appointee in her elected official capacity to the Houston-Galveston Area Council’s Transportation Policy Council. “I felt it was a personal goal to bring these dollars to our city, so that our residents and our community will benefit,” she said.

The pedestrian and bicyclist mobility project’s construction could begin in late 2011.

September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

5

Editor’s Preview

by Sharon Wallingford

September gives us a fresh start The Editorial Advisory Board Kolbe Curtice CCIM, CLS Curtice Commercial Real Estate

Jacqueline Baly Chaumette President and CEO Baly Projects, LLC

Louis Garvin President and CEO Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce

Dee Koch Grant Officer The George Foundation

T

month

of

September

This month offers the latest on banking,

seems to bring about new

healthcare, real estate, bond elections,

starts. Schools and colleges

hotels and small business developments.

are in gear to offer students

It also includes premiere presentations

of all ages a variety of new opportunities.

on Del Webb Sweetgrass, bringing the

It’s a chance to master new topics. The

latest in resort style living to the Greater

month seems to grant us permission to

Houston area in Richmond, No Label

set a fresh pace. It allows us to feel more

Brewing Company in Katy, and the

“settled down” if we are wanting to begin

more than $5 million received in federal

any planning that coincides with home,

funding for bike and transportation related

school and business projects. Its 30 days

improvements throughout the county.

of fresh energy seems to push us forward

We’ve also included the annual schedule

with list making of new clients, the need to

for the Fort Bend Symphony concerts

configure new traffic routes because of the

at Stafford Centre for your weekend

new construction that began this summer

entertainment.

or to plan for the next vacation.

Listen up -

All that planning can feed into interesting

Becky Munnell President and CEO Blue Jungle Marketing

he

conversations

and

timely,

newsworthy articles for our magazine.

Begin this fall - yes, it’s here already with your hand full of current events of

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

what is occurring in your county. The Fort Bend/Katy Business Journal is a publication

ACHIEVE Fort Bend board members need your help. Read about their progress and you will see how it can lead to success for students, taxpayers, businesses and the county if you take action now.

Next month, we’ll visit with area chefs.

Send us your requests.

focused on a wide range of issues in the local economy that keep area residents

Tim Stubenrouch President First Community Bank

Lucia Street and the

Ching. Keep the cash registers ringing.

up to date with local business news and related resources. We hope you are

Sharon K. Wallingford

following along with us.

John Whitmore Whitmore Company

The Buzz Box Hi Sharon, Enjoyed the informative article about Jacquie Chaumette in this month’s

Contact: Sharon K. Wallingford skwcountry@aol.com Dean West dean@fortbendstar.com

Fort Bend Business Journal. Had no idea she was involved in Sugar Land Town Square & Katy Freeway expansion. We’re lucky to have her on Sugar Land city council!

Keep up the good work!

Nancy V. Mills, APR

6

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

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

Go to

www.FortBendAutoMarketplace.com

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

September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

7

Free Lap-Band Seminar — Helping severely obese patients lose weight

L

osing weight through diet and exercise is easy for some people.

But for the 9 million Americans classified as morbidly obese, eating right and working out may not be enough.

There is help. Safer than gastric bypass, Lap-Band® surgery, a laparoscopic weight loss procedure, may be an effective option for some adults diagnosed as clinically obese. The Lap-Band procedure is appropriate for people with a body mass index (BMI) over 30. Most insurance plans will cover the procedure for patients who have a BMI of: • 35 with medical conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure or sleep apnea.

• 40 or greater.

The average body mass index for men and women is between 25 and 30.

“The key things about this procedure are that the Lap-Band is adjustable and the procedure is reversible,” says Guillermo Ponce

de Leon, M.D., a general surgeon on staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “Because the size of the stomach is smaller after surgery, patients feel full longer. They basically eat very small meals that keep them full.”

Dr. Ponce de Leon, along with general surgeons Kulvinder Bajwa, M.D., and Sheilendra Mehta, M.D., are board certified by the American Board of Surgery and are specifically trained to perform the FDA-approved Lap-Band surgery as a safe, long-term solution for weight loss.

The procedure is performed through five tiny incisions into the stomach. Using laparoscopic instruments, the physician places a band around the stomach creating a small adjustable pouch where food is stored.

This procedure offers a variety of advantages over stomach stapling and gastric bypass surgery. “Patients recover more quickly, it is an outpatient procedure and less expensive than the other alternatives,” Dr. Bajwa says.

While complications are minimal, the Lap-Band isn’t a “magic pill” to cure obesity.

“It is a tool to help patients lose weight,” says Dr. Mehta. “Patients also need to follow a good diet plan and exercise. The band is successful when patients are motivated to make a lifestyle change.”

Patients seeking the procedure should discuss it with their physician and then seek surgery from a physician with advanced laparoscopic skills.

Free seminar — Learn More!

Come and meet Drs. Ponce de Leon, Bajwa or Mehta on the third Wednesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, located in Conference Room A&D in the Main Pavilion. The doctors will present the latest information on Lap-Band surgery and answer your questions. Call 281274-7500 to reserve your seat.

Seminar Dates September 15 and October 20.

Looking for a top selling VoIP System We Have Them

We also provide complete IT services Microsoft / Cisco Certified

Business Telephone Systems Voice • Data • Video Sales • Service • Intallation

www.prostarcomm.com

281-265-3500

Serving Fort Bend County & Houston - Since 1992

8

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

Get the BEST PRICE from a FULL SERVICE COMPANY Call us today a FREE Communications Analysis One Call, One Source, Unlimited Solutions

Special Feature Fort Bend Banking & Financial Services

September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

9

Fort Bend Banking & Financial Services

WJ Interests, LLC, again named top advisor by Financial Advisor, Wealth Manager magazines

WJ

Interests, LLC, has again been ranked among the top financial planning firms in the United States by both Financial Advisor and Wealth Management magazines. Located in Sugar Land, this is the sixth straight year WJ Interests has been included on the Wealth Manager list and the third straight year to be listed by Financial Advisor magazine.

Both lists can be viewed at www.wjinterests.com. ‘‘We are very pleased to be ranked again,’’ said Jared Jameson, chief investment officer and vice president of the firm. ‘‘We appreciate the confidence our clients have shown in this difficult economic environment.’’

Wealth managers had to meet several criteria to be included in the rankings: a firm must be an SEC registered investment advisor with its own IARD number; have minimum assets under advisement of at least $50 million; have individuals or high-net-worth individuals as more than half of its client base; and offer financial

planning services in addition to asset management.

“The firms that participate in the annual Top Wealth Managers survey are the lion’s share of the largest, most established registered investment advisors (RIAs), in America,” according to WealthManagerWeb.com’s Editor-in-Chief Kathleen McBride.

“These are the firms our survey partner, Fusion Advisor Network President Philip Palaveev, describes as the ones every RIA wants to be when they grow up.”

WJ Interests is a fee-only financial planning and investment management firm dedicated to helping individuals, families and businesses achieve their personal financial goals. ‘‘We believe our clients’ trust is the most valuable asset we manage,’’ Jared said. ‘‘Our clients trust us with their financial future and we take that responsibility very seriously.’’ For more information, visit WJ Interests’ website at www.wjinterests.com or call 281-634-9400.

Providing fee-only services to individuals, families and businesses since 1996.

(281) 634-9400 • www.wjinterests.com

WJIad_7.25x4.75.indd 1 Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010 10

8/5/08 6:51:43 PM

Fort Bend Banking & Financial Services

Trustmark Bank provides world-class customer satisfaction and community service Trustmark’s history of meeting customers’ financial needs extends back to 1889. Through the years, Trustmark has broadened its customer base by expanding the market it serves as well as the products and services it provides. After building a statewide banking franchise in Mississippi, Trustmark entered the Tennessee market and then entered the Florida and Texas markets in 2003 and 2004, respectively.

With over 16 offices in the Houston area, Trustmark continues to expand its Houston presence. Currently, Trustmark has 4 offices serving the Ft. Bend/Katy area which is led by Trustmark’s Market President Travis Van Horn. Trustmark Southwest Freeway office is managed by Wanda Glez-Kras; Angel Pena manages the Sugar Land, Fry Road and Missouri City offices.

With over $9 billion in assets, Trustmark has become a diversified financial services partner for its customers by providing personal and business banking solutions, corporate lending, cash management services, as well as wealth management and insurance solutions.

As a company, we have distinguished ourselves from our peers by our commitment to world-class customer satisfaction, as well

as our commitment to providing leadership in the communities we serve.

Our clients understand that Trustmark is “People you trust.

Advice that works”.

Trustmark Bank Missouri City Branch

Is your bank one of the best capitalized banks in the South?

Trustmark Bank is.

For over 120 years customers have relied on Trustmark’s fi nancial strength to guide them through troubling times. In today’s economy shouldn’t you entrust your fi nancial security to a bank that remains as solid today as it was yesterday. We have 17 Houston area locations, with four offices serving the Ft. Bend/Katy area. To fi nd out more, call your nearest location.

FRY ROAD

SUGAR LAND

MISSOURI CITY

SOUTHWEST FREEWAY

7100 South Fry Road Katy, TX 77494 281.371.5300 4800 Hwy. 6 Missouri City, TX 77459 281.403.5002

1845 Hwy. 6 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281.637.4000 11709 Wilcrest Dr. Houston, TX 77099 281.983.7000

Member FDIC September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

11

Fort Bend Banking & Financial Services

Feeling more at home with LoweryBank

SIX GENERATIONS

OF TEXAS BUSINESS OWNERS HAVE SOMETHING IN COMMON:

US.

L

oweryBank great service - right in your own back yard. You feel the difference when you walk in the door. You’re greeted by friendly people - banking professionals with a “can-do” attitude who are eager to help with your individual needs. The warm efficient surroundings and personal attention let you know immediately that you’ve come to the right place.

Our staff is experienced - deeply rooted in the Sugar Land community - and we’ve been helping businesses, families and individual customers with their financial needs for years.

We offer all the usual banking conveniences such as drive-through lanes, convenient hours of operation, safe deposit

Is it expecting too much to have a decision maker in your time zone? A unique perspective based on issues specific to Texas? To do business with a safe, sound institution where your dreams can prosper? We don’t think so.

When you’re ready to expect more, we’re here. f r o s t b a n k . c o m

we’re from here

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

! k c e h c a u o y o write

We are ready t

SMALL BUSINESS AND CONSUMER LOANS

y munit m o C on Houst

A

iversa

Houston Community Bank, N.A.

ry

nn

13811 Murphy Road (FM 1092) Stafford , Texas 77477

281.208.2111 12

YOUR SOURCE FOR

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

19855 Southwest Freeway, Ste 100 Greatwood Lakes Office Building Sugar Land, Texas 77479

281.343.7700

houstoncommunitybank.com

Fort Bend Banking & Financial Services boxes, ATM and a full array of products and services to meet your needs.

LoweryBank is a family-owned, fullservice Texas bank that offers traditional commercial and consumer banking. We are a division of Huntington State Bank, established in East Texas in 1961. Because of this relationship, we have the ability to fulfill the full spectrum of banking needs for our depositors, commercial customers, and borrowers for amounts big or small.

Decisions on loans and deposits are made locally, making the process very simple and, just as importantly, quick.

You’ll enjoy the benefit of old-time personal attention from people who truly care about making your banking experience the best it can be - each and every time you call or come in.

In addition, you even have your own room. We now invite non-profits and faith-based organizations to utilize our new state-of-the-art conference room. For more information call us at 281-263-1100 or to make a reservation just knock at our door.

Visit us on the web www.lowerybank.com.

Yes, we will! make you feel right at home.

Join Riverbend and get in on the Excitement!

The Only Members Owned Club in Sugar Land.

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

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

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

www.riverbendcountryclub.org

24 hour banking

Safe deposit boxes

Home loans

Personal loans

Home improvement loans

Business loans

Home equity loans

Yes, we will!

Commercial real estate loans

make you feel right at home You even have your own room. We now invite nonprofits and faith-based organizations to utilize our new state-of-the-art conference room. For more information or to make a reservation just knock at our door.

Member FDIC

www.lowerybank.com  281.263.1100 16555 Southwest Freeway, Suite 100  Sugar Land, TX 77479 September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

13

B

A

N

K

I

N

G

Money Talks

by Tim Stubenrouch / First Community Bank

More Than Just a Piece of Plastic Credit cards were born in 1951 and when the magnetic strip was added in the 1970s they became part of our daily lives. They are easy to use, and easy to become “just a piece of plastic” if we lose sight of what credit cards really are: a convenient substitute for cash. That means that whatever we do with a credit card will require that we pay in cash.

Here are some best practices for managing our credit cards.

Avoid unnecessary fees and interest.

Pay on time to avoid late fees and interest.

Remember that cash advances usually have fees and interest that apply immediately.

Watch your account to be sure that you are within your credit limit; going over the credit limit can mean a fee and higher interest.

There are cards that do not charge interest if you pay the balance in full on time, but many

have an annual fee – be sure to weigh all your alternatives and read the fine print in your agreement with the credit card issuer.

Plan your payments. It is always best if you can pay your full credit card balance each month. That takes budgeting and monitoring what you spend using your card. If you cannot pay the full balance, budget to pay as much as you can each month and have a plan for paying the balance down. Leaving a balance will cost you interest. The Federal Reserve Bank has a repayment calculator to help you develop a timeline at www.federalreserve.gov/creditcard.

Make your credit card work with your budget. If the payment date does not fall at a convenient time for you – if it is due before your paycheck date, for instance – contact the credit card company and see if they will

change your payment date to suit your cash flow. Watch for changes in the terms of your account – they are usually in the fine print on your monthly bill and can contain unwelcome surprises.

Protect your plastic. Keep records of your account number, expiration date, and contact information for the issuing company in a safe place. Call them immediately if you lose your card or see any transactions on your account that you question. Your credit card is, after all, more than just a piece of plastic!

Tim Stubenrouch is a Columnist for the Fort Bend Business Journal and is with First Community Bank, N.A., President - Fort Bend, 13135 Dairy Ashford, Suite 250, Sugar Land, TX 77478. He can be reached at 281242-2262, fax: 281-242-1522, or email at stubenrouch@firstcommunitybank.net. H

You see the glass half full.

So do we.

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

firstcommunitybank.net

14

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

Different. Better.

Fort Bend Banking & Financial Services

Darron Drago Senior Vice-President

Jeff Samples President

Jay Rogers Chairman and CEO

Delores Hansen Senior Vice-President

Craig Bunk Senior Vice-President

Tradition of Trust.

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

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

September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

15

Fort Bend/Richmond Receive $1.3 Million in funding for transportation enhancement project

By Sharon K. Wallingford

F

ort Bend county and the city of Richmond received over $1.3 million when The Texas Transportation Commission Thursday approved $76 million in funding for 54 transportation-related enhancement projects.

Selected from over 200 applications statewide, the East region of the state which includes Beaumont, Bryan, Houston, and Lufkin received $19 million with Sugar Land receiving $1,873,286 for their US 59 Pedestrian and Bike Improvement Project and Richmond for the US 59/FM 762 Landscaping project. The North Region of the state which includes Dallas and Fort Worth received the largest portion of the funding at $35.5 million.

The federally-funded program supports transportation-related activities that promote the quality of the environment through aesthetic enhancements associated with transportation. The program provides funding for projects that contribute to the livelihood of communities, promote the quality of our environment, and enhance the aesthetics Vincent Morales of our roadways.

“These projects will provide opportunities for enhancements that will compliment the transportation system by supporting hike & bike trails, visitor centers, and beautification and restoration efforts,” said Ted Houghton, Texas Transportation Commissioner. “Local communities’ transportation experience will be enhanced through this program’s funding.”

Projects were selected on a competitive basis. TxDOT issued a program call for project nominations in October 2009.

Fort Bend County Commissioners

16

The transportation enhancement project is planned for U.S. 59 and FM 762. Construction is expected to begin in 2011.

Richard Morrison and Andy Myers were in Austin Thursday to thank TxDOT commissioners when the announcement was made.

The awarding of $1.3 million in transRichard Morrison portation improvements was secured for improvements at the intersection of US 59 and FM 762 that will cover the 44 acres of land within the TxDOT right-of-way and the West Fort Bend Management District. The property lies within Richmond’s ETJ. The landscaping project includes the forestation of 170 live oaks along the access ramps with mixtures of 1,200 red oaks, Nuttall oaks, red maples and Montezuma cypress with solar drip/bubbler irrigation system with rainwater retrieval tank. About 63,000 white oleanders planted in center spacing will

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

compliment the project as row crops that wrap the two existing park and ride pads.

“The program provides funding for projects that contribute to the livelihood of communities, promote the quality of our environment, and enhance the aesthetics of our roadways,” said Morrison.

“This project will beautify the main entrance to Richmond and Rosenberg.

“The submittal of the Transportation Enhancement Project by the county was in cooperation with the West Fort Bend Management District,” said Vincent Morales,WFBMD president. “Across the country, highway corridors are continually expanded and enhanced. This project will bring destination designation and provide connection for economic growth for both cities and the county. It will visually enhance the region which is the WFBMD’s goal.”

“The efforts of numerous people made this effort possible,” said Morales.

OakBend receives Get With The Guidelines Gold Plus Performance Achievement Award Award demonstrates OakBend’s commitment to quality care for stroke patients

O

akBend Medical Center has received the American Heart Association/ American Stroke Association’s Get With The Guidelines® Stroke Gold Plus Performance Achievement Award. The award recognizes OakBend’s commitment and success in implementing excellent care for stroke patients, according to evidence-based guidelines.

To receive the award, OakBend achieved of 85 percent or higher adherence to all Get With The Guidelines-Stroke Performance Achievement indicators for two or more consecutive 12-month intervals and achieved 75 percent or higher compliance with six of the ten Get With The Guidelines-Stroke Quality Measures, which are reporting initiatives to measure quality of care.

These measures include aggressive use of medications, such as tPA, antithrombotics, anticoagulation therapy, DVT prophylaxis, cholesterol reducing drugs and smoking cessation, all aimed at reducing death and disability and improving the lives of stroke patients.

“With a stroke, time lost is brain lost, and the Get With The Guidelines–Stroke Gold Plus Performance Achievement Award demonstrates OakBend Medical Center’s commitment to being one of the top hospitals in America for providing aggressive, proven stroke care,” said Jody Jones Noirot, Oak Bend’s Senior Vice President and Jackson Street Campus Hospital Administrator. “We will continue with our focus on providing care that has been shown in the scientific literature to quickly and efficiently treat stroke patients with evidence-based protocols,” “OakBend is to be commended for its commitment to implementing standards of care and protocols for treating stroke

L – R Bhavisha Patel, RN, Stroke Coordinator, Jody Jones-Noirot, Senior Vice President and Jackson Street Campus Administrator, Dr. Amitabh Shukla, Stroke Program Medical Director , Peggy Smith, American Heart Association Representative, Sue McCarty, Vice President and Williams Way Campus Administrator

patients,” said Lee H. Schwamm, M.D, chair of the Get With The Guidelines National Steering Committee and director of the TeleStroke and Acute Stroke Services at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. “The full implementation of acute care and secondary prevention recommendations and guidelines is a critical step in saving the lives and improving outcomes of stroke patients.”

Get With The Guidelines–Stroke uses the “teachable moment,” the time soon after a patient has had a stroke, when they are most likely to listen to and follow their healthcare professionals’ guidance. Studies demonstrate that patients who are taught how to manage their risk factors while still in the hospital reduce their risk of a second heart attack or stroke.

Through Get With The Guidelines–

Stroke, customized patient education materials are made available at the point of discharge, based on patients’ individual risk profiles. The take-away materials are written in an easy-to-understand format and are available in English and Spanish.

In addition, the Get With The Guidelines Patient Management Tool gives healthcare providers access to up-to-date cardiovascular and stroke science at the point of care.

According to the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association, stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of serious, long-term disability. On average, someone suffers a stroke every 45 seconds; someone dies of a stroke every three minutes; and 795,000 people suffer a new or recurrent stroke each year.

September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

17

First robotic colorectal cancer surgery performed at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital

M

ethodist Sugar Land Hospital brought Leading Medicine to Fort Bend County when Dr. Bartley Pickron performed the first colorectal cancer robotics case.

During the last decade minimally invasive surgery has influenced the approach used in a variety of operations, and its use and indications continue to expand. Recently, laparoscopic colectomy for cancer has been utilized for its results in decreased postoperative pain, shorter length of hospitalization, earlier return to normal functioning, and increasing demand for laparoscopic surgery from patients. However, colon and rectal cancer surgery can be technically demanding, especially rectal cancer because it is performed in the narrow pelvic cavity. Thus, the surgeon needs advanced technical skills for the laparoscopic rectal resection.

Bartley Pickron, M.D.

A minimally invasive surgical approach used for colon and rectal surgery is robotic surgery, performed on the da Vinci® Surgical System. Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is

currently one of only a handful of facilities across the country offering this minimally invasive, state-of-the-art procedure.

Using the da Vinci Surgical System, the surgeon operates while seated comfortably at a console viewing a 3D image of the surgical field. The surgeon’s fingers grasp the master controls below the display, with hands and wrists naturally positioned relative to his or her eyes. The system seamlessly translates the surgeon’s hand, wrist and finger movements into precise, real-time movements of surgical instruments inside the patient.

Traditional laparoscopy has never become widely applied outside a limited set of routine procedures. Only a select group of highly skilled surgeons routinely attempt complex procedures using a minimally invasive approach. A number of procedures that could

STRENGTHENING

a winning team!

Dr. Mark Maffet joins Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas The team at Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas (MOST) welcomes another all-star!

Board-certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Mark Maffet brings in-depth expertise and skill in a wide range of sports medicine specialties to his new position on the MOST staff. Dr. Maffet is a leader in knee and shoulder arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery, with a long history of helping athletes of all levels return to full health following injury or illness.

Don’t live with the pain. See Dr. Maffet – or one of the other board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic specialists at MOST – and get back in the action!

Call 281-494-MOST (6678) for a personal appointment today.

1201 Brooks Street • Sugar Land, Texas 77478 • 281-494-MOST (6678) • MethodistOST.com

18

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

continued on page 42

Upcoming Chamber Events

10 EVENTS Sept.25-Oct.27

THE GRAND SOIREE

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

ENT!

EV KICK OFF Couture for the Cause

Kathy Womack, artist . kwomack.com

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

Internationally Renowned 3D Street Artist: Kurt Wenner

Riverstone Showhome Oct. 4-8 l Watch Him Work l $5 Oct. 9-17 l View Masterpiece l $5

THE GRAND SOIREE a Collection of Stylish Events

Join us for the hottest new annual event

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

TheGrandSoiree.com

.

KiEscape ck-off Eventto Sept.

25th Treasure Island ‘Couture for the Cause’ benefiting American Cancer Society at the Sienna Plantation Resort Lagoon

Sponsored by:

TheGrandSoiree.com

Artful Living with Neiman Marcus in Riverstone special guest Kurt Wenner Fri., Oct. 8 l 7pm l $75

Fort Bend Goes Shopping

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

Get Charmed with Charlie

Lunch at The Vineyard with the owner of Charming Charlie Fri., Oct. 15 l 11:30am-1:30pm l $40

International Risotto Festival Houston Design Center Sun., Oct. 17 l 1-6pm l $65

Art Gallery Showing with Kathy Womack

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

Women & Wine art dinner with Kathy Womack

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

Fire & Ice

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

Mix It Up at the M Lounge

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

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

19

www.FortBendChamber.com

Fort Bend Chamber Membership

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

Welcome New Members Bancroft Plastic Surgery Dr. Gregory Bancroft, MD 4690 Sweetwater Blvd.

Suite 140 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-785-2592 Cosmetic Surgery

Colony Limousine of Sugar Land Hamid Mirabi, Owner 9731 Mula Rd. Stafford, TX 77477 281-265-5466 Limousine Service

Fort Bend Water Control Meadows Place Senior Improvement District #1 Village Fred Fogarty, President 4501 Cartwright Road #101 Missouri City, TX 77459 281-403-1818 Elected Officials

Chris Richardson, CEO 12221 S. Kirkwood Stafford, TX 77477 281-240-1932 Senior Living

Hyatt Place Houston/ Sugar Land

Senior Trust Alliance

Michael Gleeson, General Manager 16730 Creek Bend Drive Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-491-0300 Hotels & Motels

E3 Electric Ltd.

Steve Jackson, CEO 4545 S Pinemont Houston, TX 77041 713-622-1222 Electrical Contractors

Edward Jones / Horton

Knowledge-First Empowerment Center

James Allen, CEO 2651 Cartwright Rd., Suite-C Missouri City, TX 77459 281-499-8315 Educators

Peter Horton, Financial Advisor 7320 US 90 A #120 Magnolia Ambulance Sugar Land, TX 77478 Service 281-491-0244 Michael Cavazos, President Financial Services 6110 Canvasback Lane Events by Doyin Rosenberg, TX 77471 Doyin Fashakin, CEO 281-239-4030 Sugar Land, TX 77498 Transportation 832-308-7998 Event Planners

Ron Norsworthy, President Suite 245 19901 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77479 Senior Services/Resources

Staybridge Suites

Gary Hickman, General Manager 11101 Fountain Lake Drive Stafford, TX 77477 281-302-6535 Hotels & Motels

Accent Advantage

Karen Dulyunan 114 Guenther St Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-201-5419 Training & Development

www.FortBendChamber.com 20

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

Welcome New Members The Phoenix Design Group, Inc. Charlie Litchfield, Co-Owner 13406 Redfish Lane Stafford, TX 77477 281-499-0600 Audio-Video

Word of God Ministries

Edith T. Neuveaux, President 4318 Kylewood Court Port Authur, TX 77642 409-549-2626 Churches

Wholesale Services

Ronn Goodier, CEO PO Box 365 Richmond, TX 77406 832-724-6083 Advertising, Promotional Specialties

September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

21

We Believe in You, Thanks for Believing in US! 1 Year Houston Humane Society Sherry Ferguson, 713-434-5500

3 Years Waterstone Place Apartments Marta Garcia, 281-261-7775

Mr. Handyman Lester Davis, 281-313-1005

Sugar Land Rehabilitation Hospital Rob Morris, 281-276-7574

Tri-Star Advisors, Inc. Rachel Payne, 713-735-9200

Primrose School of First Colony Tina Koenig, 281-565-2707

Print Heads Ink Mark Rodriguez, 877-382-3993

RICOH Americas Corporation Shauna Williams, 281-295-4600

Spring Creek Barbeque Ellis Dyson, 281-499-8222

CRM City Fellowship Church LaQuita Carter, 281-313-1213

Loggia - food.sports.music Alfred Bonilla, 281-903-7324

4 Years Strategic Public Affairs, Inc. Andrew Biar, 713-335.099

American Diabetes Association Betsey Montle, 713-977.7706 x6086 Any Lab Test Now Elizabeth Marcos, 281-302-5674 Shell and Tube, LLC James Hartsell, 281-499-0909 Nexcar, Inc. Scot Seim, 281-977-0202 Mercyfull Home Health, Inc. Mercy Grant, 281-232-7500 2 Years The Colonnades at Reflection Bay Stefani Knox, 713-434-3800 Promptsource, Inc. John Varghese, 281-385-9988 DirectBuy of Houston SW Dan Tidwell, 281-933-1372

Personal Physicians of Sugar Land Helen Hofmeister, 281-242-2221 Fred Astaire Dance Studio Mark Adler, 281-265-0644 Sugar Land Medical Associates Abraham Peringol, 281-565-2140 Briscoe Manor Jennifer Lowrance, 281-238-4700

7 Years Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation Donna Hine, 281-898-4518 Fort Bend Community Partners Rainbow Room Tonya Lewis, 832-595-3029 The Spencer Company Troy Goodell, 713-222-6666 Sugar Land Surgical Hospital Carol Champagne, 281-243-1000 Fort Bend M.U.D. #25 Mary Hayes, 281-277-0129 x102 Sugar Land Neurology Jeffrey A. Jackson,MD, 281-494-6387 8 Years Fort Bend Junior Service League Brigit Engleman, 281-636-6272 A & S Engineers, Inc. Bill Baird, 713-942-2725 Dal-Sterling International, Inc. Nigel Oliver, 713-219-1442

9 Years Fort Bend Rheumatology Associates, Greatwood Retirement & PLLC Assisted Living Tara Hernandez, 281-980-1742 Lesha Vacarro, 281-343-8400

Milestone Members 5 Years

Whitney National Bank Elizabeth Jones, 713-951-6170

Tarantino Properties David Sutton, 713-974-4292 Fort Bend Financial Bridget Yeung, 281-277-0012 Douglas E. Koger, Attorney at Law Douglas Koger, 281-340-2050

Flowers by Tiffany, LLC Anne S. Yao, 281-208-8681

G & A Partners

Post Oak Grill - Sugar Land Kevin Rios, 281-491-2901

6 Years Vineyard on the Square Kelly Harris, 713-515-8929

Noble Corporation

Barich Inc. Justin Phy, 832-971-0313

Aguirre & Fields, LP

Best Western Sugar Land Inn Nick Bhakta, 281-232-0680

David Vasquez, 713-784-1181

Milestone Members 10 Years Kurt Hoffman, 281-276-6100

Richard A. Fields, 281-340-8900

22

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

We Believe in You, Thanks for Believing in US! Milestone Members 10 Years

Freed Advertising Gerald Freed, 281-240-4949

18 Years Heritage Texas Properties Judy Monroe, 281-240-8800

Bluebonnet Nutrition Corporation Gary Barrows, 281-240-3332

Chick-fil-A at Missouri City

Milton Kubala, 281-261-7100

Sugar Creek Center/ Property Owner’s Assn.

Don Russell, 281-242-1399

Harry M. Green Interests, Inc.

Harry M. Green, 713-953-9800 11 Years SiEnergy Robert Shockley, 281-778-6250 OTHON, INC., Consulting Engineers F. William Othon, 713-975-8555 12 Years Principal Financial Group Brian Walker, 281-494-4411 Parkside Apartments Lucy Kaley, 281-564-6700

Old Republic Title Diane McClure, 281-265-9500

Sandersen, Knox & Belt, LLP Alan Sandersen, 281-242-3232

Milestone Members 15 Years

21 Years State Farm Insurance Richard Stegall, 281-491-1111

Planned Parenthood

Marilyn Choosed, 281-494-5757

SHAH Companies

Dinesh Shah, 281-242-8464 16 Years Meridian Medical Dental Healthcare Duncan G. Foulds, 281-265-6565 17 Years Sundance Construction Company Kevin H. Harris, 281-277-1000 Heritage Texas Properties Judy Monroe, 281-240-8800

Fort Bend Habitat for Humanity Sharon D. Heldt, 281-403-0708

22 Years Tejas Surveying, Inc. Randy McClendon, 281-240-9099 24 Years RE/MAX Southwest Realtors Bette Lemon, 281-491-1776 26 Years Crown Cork and Seal Co., Inc. Michael Jansen, 281-240-4838 Animal Hospital Jeffrey P. Hauke, DVM, 281-980-8387 28 Years Fort Bend County Judge Brady G. Elliott, 281-341-8610

CUTT

RIBBON

INGS

Castle Dental Center

5414 W. Grand Parkway, Suite 120 Richmond, TX 77406 832.568.7075

Castle Dental Center is one of General Dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry and Teeth Whitening. Their business philosphy is to provide smiles for everyone, have the best customer service and happy customers.

The Houston area has 33 locations and their is a need to provide services in every area of Houston and we are happy to provide service to the Fort Bend County Area. Castle Dental Center is quality dentistry at a lower price. All Castle Dental Centers provide all specialties such as Orthodontics, Periodontal services, Oral Surgery, Endodontics, and Pediatric dentistry. Castle Dental Center offers a one stop shop for all your dental cares with easy payment plans. They are open Monday through Friday from 9am to 6pm. For more information please contact Castle Dental Center at 832.586.7075

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

23

www.FortBendChamber.com CUTT

RIBBON

INGS

TCT Enterprises, LLC 10701 Corporate Drive, Suite 190 Stafford, TX 77477 281 383-9523

TCT Enterprises believes in developing strong lasting partnerships with their clients by providing the customized and individual attention they need. They strive to work with their clients on a personal level to understand their vision or goals and provide the support and identify the necessary tools to bring success.

TCT Enterprises started because of Shirley Crews Talor’s vision to work with organizations and individuals to promote continuous learning, growth and development. Their business is personalized attention and establishing lasting relationships. TCT Enterprises sets itself apart by inspiring hope in others. They strive to create an environment of encouragement and support to help their clients reach their goals. It’s not just business for TCT Enterprises, it really is personalized attention.

Founded in 2007, TCT Enterprises, LLC is a full-service coaching and management consulting firm that provides small to midsize businesses and individuals with proven leadership in human resources, organizational development and professional development.

TCT Enterprises is open Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm. For more information please visit www.tctenterprisesllc.com or contact them at 281.383.9523 or info@tctenterprisesllc.com.

Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Spine Center 16655 Southwest Freeway Sugar Land, TX 77479 281.313.2225

To expedite surgical and non-surgical care for patients with back and neck pain, Methodist Sugar Land Hospital has opened its new Spine Center. The center will feature a unique spine care navigation service, designed to help patients receive the complete spine care they need from diagnosis and treatment through rehabilitation services — all in one convenient location.

The overall management of spine care includes imaging, diagnoses, pain management, physical and occupational therapy, and surgical procedures when necessary.

Powered by board-certified neurosurgeon and medical director, Rajesh K. Bindal, M.D., board-certified neurologist and pain specialist, Irfan Lalani, M.D., board-certified neurologist and chief of the Medical Staff, Jeffrey Jackson, M.D., board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon with Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas, Jeffrey Wood, M.D., and at the core of Spine Center is a nurse practitioner or “navigator” who will help patients get going in the right direction.

The new Spine Center is located on the Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. Patients with primary care physician referrals, as well as those without referrals, are welcome. For more information or to schedule an appointment at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Spine Center, please call 281-313-BACK (2225).

www.FortBendChamber.com 24

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

www.FortBendChamber.com CUTT

RIBBON

INGS

GHRA

12790 South Kirkwood Rd Stafford, TX 77477 281.295.5300 info@ghraonline.com The GHRA was established in 1999 for the benefit of its members who own independent Convenience Stores in and around Greater Houston area.

GHRA helps its members to achieve better rates and discounts on goods and services they purchase, through negotiations with various vendors, including fortune 500 companies like Pepsi Co., Coca-Cola and Dr Pepper. It also provides marketing and promotional opportunities to its vendors. GHRA also provides members with opportunities for professional growth through educational and service-oriented training programs.

In a very short time, GHRA has reached a phenomenal growth and success. Almost one third of all C-Stores in the Greater Houston area are members of GHRA. Its current membership stands over 1400, which spreads over 40 counties, therefore making it the largest association of its kind.

The GHRA is open Monday – Friday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. For more information please call 281.295.5300.

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

25

Upcoming Chamber Events

The premier, annual forum where the story of our public education institutions can be told. with support from

Archi-Technics/3 - Houston Community College

Fort Bend Mechanical-LTD-Jamail & Smith ConstructionLinebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP-PBK Architects,Inc.Rice & Gardner Consultans, Inc.-Thompson & Horton, LLP-P2MGDrymalla Construction Company- Molina Walker Architects- Null-Lairson,PC-

CRE8 ArchitectsU of H System at Sugar Land/WCJC- Stanley Spurling & Hamilton, Inc.-Pfluger Associates Architecs -AUTOARCH Architects, LLC-VLK Architects

*Keynote Speakers*

Dr. Tim Jenney Fort Bend ISD

H.D. Chambers Stafford MSD

Dr. Thomas Randle Lamar Consolidated ISD

PAYMENT OPTIONS: (circle one)

Presenting Sponsor $2,000 (Priority Seating for 10) Event Sponsor $1,000 (Priority Seating for 8) Event Underwriter $500 (Priority Seating for 2) Corporate Table (8) Reservation $350 Individual Reservation $35 Need Reservation for ___ attendee(s)

Invoice Me

Check

AmEx

Discover

MC

VISA

Contact: Phone: Email: Card Number: Expiration Date: Cardholder Name: Signature: Amount: $ Jaine Garvin - 281-491-2407, Fax - 281-491-0112 Jaine@fortbendcc.org Register and pay online at www.fortbendchamber.com Cancellations must be received in writing and confirmed by 2pm Friday, September 3, 2010.

Thereafter full payment is due.

Friday, September 10, 2010 Sugar Land Marriott-Town Square 16090 City Walk Dr. - Sugar Land 11:00 am

www.FortBendChamber.com 26

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

Who are the Jewels of Fort Bend?

Joyous, Extraordinary Women Enriching Lives

Peggy Duggan Carolyn Banfield

Cassandra Wen

proudly announces the 2010

Brigit Engleman

Lynn Halford

Luncheon & Style Show

Safari Texas Ranch Thursday, September Twenty Three, Two Thousand and Ten u 11:30 am - 1:30 pm Safari Texas Ranch u 11627 FM 1464 u Richmond, Texas BENEFITING

MISTRESS OF CEREMONIES

Minerva Pérez LATINA VOICES Co-Host, Executive Producer Special Thanks to Our Official Jewels’ Contributors J Loggins Jeweler - Jewels’ Official Jeweler Alisa Murray - Official Photographer

Safari Texas Ranch - Official Venue Salon Eben & Day Spa - Official Salon

Pamela Printing - Official Printer Tickets & Sponsorship Opportunities u 281-690-4242 or www.FortBendFocus.com

Fort Bend Successful Men In Business

Mitha Law Firm is your insurance, real estate and business representative

I

qbal (Ike) Mitha has been a Texas resident for 33 years and grew up in Fort Bend County.

Mitha received his Juris Doctor degree “For over 18 years, we have successfully represented from Southern Methodist University and has clients in commercial insurance matters and assisted been licensed since 1991 by the Supreme Court business owners to avoid legal problems through of Texas. preventative law practices. Visit our website at Ike Mitha Prior to opening his own practice, Mitha pracmithalawfirm.com then call us for a consultation.” ticed criminal defense law in Harris and Fort Bend Counties. He also engaged in ad litem representation in numerous cases in the Harris County Juvenile Courts. Mitha’s legal experience includes •Insurance Litigation •Business Litigation working at the United States District Court for the Southern •Personal Injury •Real Estate Transactions District of Texas.

Litigation •Estate Planning He has successfully served either as lead counsel, second-chair, or consultant in over 100 lawsuits throughout the State of Texas.

SUGAR LAND HOUSTON Mitha Law Firm’s goal is to cater to our clients’ specific 1455 Hwy 6 South 9494 SW Frwy, Ste 550 requirements. We provide creative and sound legal solutions to Contact I.S. MITHA at 713-621-4555 benefit our clients. Our clients consider us trusted and experienced advisors because of the quality of our legal services, ethics, www.mithalawfirm.com integrity, and thorough knowledge of the law. We always make By appointment only our clients our first priority.

One of the main areas of our practice is Insurance Litigation. With more than 18 years of experience in insurance matters, we have successfully represented clients against their insurance companies.

In a recent case, our client was offered $43,000.00 for damage to their commercial property due to a hurricane. Our law firm and team of experts conducted our own investigation and found that the actual damage to our client’s property was far in excess of what was offered to them. and win a We pursued our client’s insurance company and we obtained $2,450,000.00 for our client where they were being asked to settle for a mere $43,000.00. This is one of many examples. We work with nationally-recognized experts and professionals in their field of expertise to pursue what is rightfully and legally owed to our clients.

Find complete details and forms at With Mitha Law Firm, businesses and individuals can minimize disputes, injuwww.fortbendstar.com/scholarshipstar.doc ries, and damage claims, and we provide a strong defense for our clients when lawsuits are unavoidable. We look forward to providing you with professional legal services. For more information, please visit us at: www.mithalawfirm.com or call us for an appointment at: 713-621-4555.

Register now to be a

1,000

$

SCHOLARSHIP!

28

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

Fort Bend Successful Men In Business

Fort Bend Successful Men in Business — Jim Rice, LEED AP, President of Rice & Gardner Consultants

P

resident of Houston-based engineering firm Rice & Gardner Consultants, Jim Rice is firmly committed to the notion that a truly successful man balances an impressive business portfolio with an equally dedicated presence in the community. With 30 years as a business owner, Jim has found a way to synthesize his facility planning expertise with his continued passion to improving communities and the educational opportunities that shape our children’s futures.

Jim has extensive experience managing mechanical and electrical design projects for K-12 schools, as well as a strong track record overseeing $150 million in bond construction programs for area school districts. As an Accredited Professional in Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), and a commissioning authority credentialed by multiple organizations,

Jim consistently delivers high-performance, energy-efficient buildings. His representative completed work includes serving as Program Director for a $135 million project for Houston Independent School District, $47 million in HVAC upgrades for 100 HISD schools and a $35 million renovation program for 51 schools.

Dedicated to our community’s youth, Jim was recently appointed Fort Bend ISD Trustee Position 3, undertaking the responsibility of converting the current financial challenges into practical solutions.

He is Co-Founder and President of the Board for Fort Bend Cares, a non-profit foundation that supports programs that aid disadvantaged youth; Vice Chairman of the Education Division of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce; on the Board of Directors for the Literacy Council of Fort Bend County; and serves in varied capaci-

ties for the Boy Scouts including the Sam Houston Area Council Board of Directors.

Jim’s balance between his personal commitments and professional accomplishments is the undeniable measure of his success.

Rice & Gardner

High-performance, energy-efficient buildings are the hallmark of Rice & Gardner Consultants. Our services enhance life-cycle value for facilities in Fort Bend County and Southeast Texas: n

n n

Mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineering design Building Commissioning Program Management of public bond construction programs

Rice & Gardner Consultants provides innovation in engineering to: n n n

6161 Savoy Drive

n

Suite 1212

n

K-12 schools Colleges and universities Corporations

Houston, Texas 77036

n

713.482.2300

n

n n n

Government agencies Hospitals Religious institutions

713.482.2314 fax

n

www.ricegardner.com

September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

29

Fort Bend Successful Men In Business

Your Complete

Automotive Repair Center Fast Friendly & Professional

“We do not want to only repair your vehicle - we want to become your friend!”

W • EMISSION TESTING • ASE CERTIFIED TECHS • AUTHORIZED EMISSION REPAIRS Daivd & Cindy Fauvelle Owners

• LUBE AND MAINTENANCE SERVICES • FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1989

281-499-9684 2526 Fifth Street, Stafford 77477

“We want not only to take care of your vehicle but also to be your friend!” www.AutoCentralAutomotive.com

ho knew back in 1989 when David Fauvelle opened Auto Central Car Care that 21 years later Auto Central would be the successful family owned and operated business it is today? Under David’s direction Auto Central has been kept on the cutting edge of David Fauvelle auto technology and can provide the best service, maintenance, and repair for your vehicles. As the business grew, wife Cindy and daughters Cristy and Sarah joined in and assisted David in becoming one of Fort Bend county’s most successful business men.

David’s involvement in the community includes being a member and past president of the Oyster Creek Rotary Club and serving on the advisory committee for SMSD. National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation, Inc. awarded him a certificate of appreciation for time and service on the NATEF evaluation team for training programs. David Fauvelle is truly a successful Fort Bend business man!

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

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

Alan Sandersen 30

• Taxation • Tax Controversies • Litigation Support • Audits of Commercial and Governmental entities • Construction Companies

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

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

281.242-3232 www.sktx.com

Chamber’s Web Site Garners Statewide Award

T

Texas Chamber of Commerce Executives Select www.CFBCA.org Top Site

he Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance, like the businesses it serves, strives daily to keep up with technology and the times.

Its efforts to do so were recognized recently, when the Texas Chamber of Commerce Executives, a branch of the Texas Association of Business, awarded the Chamber’s Web site (www.CFBCA.org) with its highest honor.

The TCCE recently held its annual conference in Nacogdoches, and during the conference announced its 2010 TCCE Awards.

The Chamber’s Web site, which is maintained

by Chamber Communications Director Brian Lee, was awarded first place for Web design.

During the past year, Lee has converted the Chamber’s online newsletter to an interactive format, created a channel to stream video of Chamber events through YouTube, upgraded the site’s members-only and member-coupon portals, maintained the Chamber’s Facebook page and has worked relentlessly to keep the site as up-to-date and as user-friendly as possible. Since October of 2009, the site has averaged more than 10,000 unique visits per

Brian Lee, CFBCA Communications Director, accepting the award from Board of Directors President Dan McDonald and Chamber President/CEO Gail Parker.

month.

“In less than a year on the job, Brian has turned our very good Web site into a great Web site,” said Gail Parker, President/CEO of the Chamber. “He never ceases to amaze me with what he can do, and the ideas and new concepts he dreams up. The first-place award from the Texas Association of Business and the Texas Chamber of Commerce Executive organization is a testament to what I already

knew and what countless chamber members have told me – it really IS the best. And Brian is not finished – he spends at least a portion of every day updating and enhancing the site, to constantly make it a better marketing tool for our members. The Board of Directors and I are very proud of Brian and his accomplishment.”

TCCE, which started in 1906, is an organization of chamber executives from across the state, working together to improve the business climate in Texas, while developing ways to enhance the quality of life in the communities that they represent. TCCE provides leadership for chamber employees through its many publications and resources. For more than 85 years, TAB has represented companies from the largest multi-national corporations to small businesses in nearly every community of our state. TAB works to improve the Texas business climate and to help make our state’s economy the strongest in the world.

For information about Chamber events or to join the Chamber, call 281-342-5464 or visit www.CFBCA.org.

EvEnt MarkEting & ProjEct ManagEMEnt Outsource your next event for optimum results from an experienced professional.

• Special Event Planning & Management • Trade Show, Conference & Convention Management • Sponsorship Marketing • Business Development • Organizational Startup • Product Launch

Joy B. Dowell

Call the Expert: 281-844-4982 or E-mail: rpjdd@aol.com September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

31

Fort Bend/Katy

COVER STORY

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

Breakthroughs in Cardiovascular Care at Heart & Vascular Institute Southwest

During the next 30 minutes, I died five times and each time they were able to bring me back to life. Because Dr. Raul Soto and the team at the Memorial Hermann Heart & Vascular Institute never gave up on me, I left the hospital four days later with my wife.

—Timothy Maxwell

32

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

T

imothy Maxwell is lucky to be alive. After all, he was revived not once or twice, but five times after his heart stopped beating in April 2009.

The CenterPoint Energy lineman remembers feeling discomfort in his chest and arms when he reported to work that fateful Monday. Upon hearing Maxwell’s health report, his boss immediately drove him to Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital.

As soon as they walked into the Emergency Center, Maxwell collapsed and his heart stopped beating.

“During the next 30 minutes, I died five times and each time they were able to bring me back to life,” said Maxwell. “Because Dr. Raul Soto and the team at the Memorial Hermann Heart & Vascular Institute never gave up on me, I left the hospital four days later with my wife.”

This is just one example of how the Memorial Hermann Heart & Vascular Institute-Southwest is saving the lives of patients with cardiovascular disorders. Since opening as Houston’s first freestanding heart hospital in 2006, the Institute has earned an impressive array of honors for exceeding national quality standards that lead to improved patient outcomes.

The Joint Commission, the nation’s leader in accreditation and implementation of healthcare standards for U.S. hospitals, granted the Institute its prestigious certification in treating acute heart attacks. The Texas Medical Foundation honored the Institute for consistently achieving between 90 percent and 100 percent on national quality measures for treatment of heart attack and heart failure.

Additionally, HealthGrades, the leading independent healthcare ratings company, named Memorial Hermann Southwest among America’s 50 Best Hospitals because of its sustained, outstanding patient outcomes.

Even the U.S. government has given the hospital accolades, ranking it in the top 1 percent of hospitals nationwide in treating heart failure.

At the Institute, an affiliated team of highly skilled and specially trained

Call 713-456-BEAT for a physician referral or a FREE seminar on irregular heartbeat, A-Fib and other arrhythmias: Tuesday, September 21 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

cardiologists, cardiovascular surgeons and cardiovascular anesthesiologists offers proven success in diagnostic, interventional and surgical procedures. For Maxwell, this was the lifesaving placement of a stent into his heart.

New Arrhythmia Clinic offers specialized care With so many cardiovascular disorders, the Institute personalizes care for each patient, providing specialized services to achieve the best possible outcomes. With that in mind, the Institute has opened a new Arrhythmia Clinic offering expert care for patients with this condition. Even those previously treated for heart arrhythmias are encouraged by technological advances that may provide them with a cure.

Arrhythmia is an abnormal rhythm of the heart. People with untreated arrhythmia are at a higher risk for permanent heart damage and stroke.

One common type of arrhythmia is atrial fibrillation (AF or A-Fib). It is caused when electrical signals in the upper part of the heart – the atria – fire irregularly.

“The atria quiver ineffectually and the heartbeat loses its rhythm, affecting its ability to pump blood efficiently,” said Sohail Jalal, M.D., a cardiac electrophysiology specialist affiliated with Memorial Hermann Southwest.

The Institute’s team of highly experienced heart specialists offers both nonsurgical and surgical options to treat arrhythmia, including medications, cardioversion and heart surgery. With cardioversion, doctors reset the heart rhythm either chemically or electrically. Because of the serious side effects and limitations of medications, physicians often recommend catheter ablation or surgery.

During catheter ablation, the surgeon inserts a thin, flexible tube into the heart.

Energy is delivered through it to repair the faulty electrical signals that tell the

heart to contract and pump blood. This procedure usually requires a one- to twonight hospital stay.

Other surgical ablation treatments for arrhythmia include the open-chest Maze procedure that has a success rate of 90 percent or more. The innovative Mini Maze, a minimally invasive procedure, is noted for offering a shorter surgery and faster recovery.

Advanced surgical techniques lead to better patient outcomes The Society of Thoracic Surgeons has recognized Memorial Hermann Heart & Vascular Institute-Southwest for far exceeding the national average for coronary bypass results. This success in patient outcomes is due in part to minimally invasive surgeries and blood-conserving methods.

.............................................. continued on page 34

September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

33

Mark Lambert, M.D., oversees a patient in the Cardiac Rehabilitation Program at the Memorial Hermann Heart & Vascular Institute-Southwest.

...........................................continued from page 33

Johanna Higgins, M.D., a cardiovascular anesthesiologist affiliated with the Institute, said minimally invasive procedures are preferable, particularly when replacing heart valves. “With a minimally invasive procedure, we don’t open the entire sternum, but rather make an incision that is around 4 to 6 inches, depending on the person’s height. This provides better stability for our patients and allows them to breathe better. There’s also less blood loss and less pain.”

Dr. Higgins, who is board certified in transesophageal echocardiography, credits the use of this special ultrasound with better patient outcomes. During heart surgery, a probe is placed down the patient’s esophagus to guide surgeons and to monitor the heart’s pumping action.

“After surgery, we have the ability to assess the valve repair before leaving the operating room,” said Dr. Higgins. “In the old days you replaced a valve and hoped for the best.”

Blood conservation is another advanced technique offered by the Institute. As more

patients seek alternatives to blood transfusions for required surgery or other medical care, the use of blood conservation is growing because it eliminates the need for donated blood.

This innovative technique transfers a patient’s blood to a heart and lung machine.

Another device retrieves blood lost during surgery. The accumulated blood is washed and processed before it is returned to the patient’s body.

Dr. Higgins said that blood conservation not only addresses religious and personal concerns about donated blood, but also helps improve recovery for patients undergoing heart surgery because their bodies will not reject their own blood.

Cardiac Rehabilitation Program promotes strong heart health A new Cardiac Rehabilitation Program at the Institute is helping heart patients to stabilize, slow or even reverse the progression of their cardiovascular disease. This customized program of exercise and education is supervised by medical professionals who specialize in heart care.

“Our cardiac rehab program helps you set up a different lifestyle,” said Mark Lambert, M.D., medical director of noninvasive cardiology and cardiac rehab at the Institute.

The program includes a healthy dose of exercise, plus education about prescribed medications, nutrition, stress management, smoking cessation, returning to work, blood pressure and cholesterol.

“Exercise specialists and cardiac nurses will monitor you while you’re exercising,” said Dr. Lambert. “They’ll fine-tune your workout so that when you go home, you have a margin of safety with exercise.”

Group classes enable patients to exchange ideas and support. Healthcare professionals, with extensive knowledge of heart care, encourage patients in following their treatment plans. Classes meet for an hour, three times a week. A physician’s prescription is requested to participate and insurance may cover the care.

The Cardiac Rehab Program is designed for people of any age. Dr. Lambert said it is beneficial to those with congestive heart failure, angina pectoris (chest pain due to clogged heart arteries), recent heart attack, coronary artery bypass graft surgery, balloon angioplasty (PTCA), pacemakers, peripheral artery disease and other forms of cardiovascular disease.

“People will enjoy the cardiac rehab, but they have to come and participate,” said Dr. Lambert. “It’s definitely not boot camp! These are intelligent, kind people who are trying to help you get your life back.”

Size matters The Institute has one of the largest cardiology programs in Houston. With a highly dedicated team of nationally recognized heart specialists using state-of-theart technology to perform the most advanced diagnostic, interventional and surgical procedures, the Institute stands apart in its delivery of comprehensive cardiovascular care.

The Institute is conveniently located on the Southwest Freeway between Bellaire and Beechnut, just a short drive from southwest and west Houston. The Institute serves Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital and Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital, providing patients with priority access via Life Flight® air ambulance. H

Learn more about the award-winning cardiovascular care at Memorial Hermann Heart & Vascular Institute-Southwest by visiting memorialhermann.org.

Continued growth in Katy ISD behind bond election for November 2

By Wayne Chandler

K

aty Independent School District Superintendent Alton Frailey told the Katy Area Economic Development Council in August, that, for the first time, there will be more than 60,000 students arriving for fall classes. ”We’re getting ready for them (the students),” Frailey said, “but they’re coming whether we’re ready for them or not.”

The new enrollment total is a four per cent increase.

Frailey reminded attendees that the district is asking the community to exercise its right to vote on the biggest bond referendum in history on November 2.

The $459 million bond includes funding for three elementary schools, one junior high and one high school, as it strives to keep pace with an expected enrollment of 87,000 students by 2019. About half of the money would go for new construction. Some $119 million is for existing facilities, $35 million for technology and $22 million for buses, portables and land.

None of the money can be used for the 8,000 Katy ISD employees.

Katy ISD’s land area covers three counties: About 60 % Harris, 30% Fort Bend and 10% Waller, but virtually all of the growth is in Fort Bend, to the south and west.

Katy ISD’s tax rate is currently 40 cents for every $1,000 appraised property. It’s projected that the tax rate would remain the same for the next two years, then increase by a penny in 2012, and another three cents in 2013 and 2014. After 2014, the tax rate begins to decrease.

This will be the district’s eighth bond authorization vote. The last bond approval was in 2006 ($269.5 million). Previous approvals were in 2002 ($315.6 million), 1999 ($324.4M), 1996 ($130M), 1994 ($90M); 1982 ($75M), and 1980 ($39.6M).

The district delayed a bond election last year to this November because of what it considered a fragile economic climate. However, the Katy area and Katy ISD continue to grow despite downturns in the economy.

According to records in 1975, the Katy ISD enrollment was 3,285.

Projections show it’s expected to reach 125,000 students in 25 years.

A good school system is attractive to home buyers. “Realtors tell us, for every house they sell here, the buyers ask about the school system,” Frailey said.

And, for the first time in recent history, all Katy schools received either an” Exemplary” or “Recognized “ rating from the Texas Education Agency (TEA). The district missed by a hair – 0.3 of a percentage point – the TEA’s “Exemplary” rating. Katy ISD is appealing the rating.

He added the district is still frustrated about missing the TEA rating because of the misreporting of last year’s graduates. The TEA requires a 95% graduating class. In June, the district had a 94.8 Hispanic completion rate and 94.7 disadvantaged students rate, but before the 2010-11 semester began, there had been more of these students graduated, topping the 95% required. “We’ve made the appeal, but the TEA evalua-

tion will not come until later this fall,” Frailey said.

“I am extremely pleased with the way our students and teachers performed and the fact that our test scores are at the Exemplary level,” he added.

Frailey is proud of the staff statistics, too. Half of the total staff is teachers, more than 4,000, with 22.5% having advanced degrees. The average teaching experience is 5.6 years, and 41 % have more than 10 years of experience. The average 2008-09 teacher salary was $49,267, and the average student per teacher ratio was 15.

The student profile: White 49%, Hispanic 30.5%, Black 10%, Asian-Pacific 10%.

Prior to coming to Katy ISD in 2008, Frailey was superintendent of public schools in Cincinnati, Ohio, and DeSoto,Texas, a suburb of Dallas. Prior to that he held a host of administrative positions in Spring Branch ISD. He has a long list of awards and citations and always has been active in each community. He and his wife and three children live in Katy ISD. “All we ask is that people look at this (referendum) fair and square,” Frailey said, “And make the call.”

THE Solution for more affordable Business Insurance!

We can help...

GROUP HEALTH INSURANCE BUSINESS PROPERTY AND LIABILITY

281-565-2222 Nationwide®

Insurance & Financial Services Jay Harris

Nationwide Is On Your Side®

President

www.insurancesolutionsoftexas.com September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

INSURER

35

Y O U

A N D

Y O U R

Tax Smart

T A X E S

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

Over 20,000 Texas Nonprofits Will Lose Tax Exempt Status On Oct 15Th– And Many Of Them Don’t Even Know It An obscure section of the Pension Protection Act of 2006 made two important changes affecting tax-exempt organizations. First, it mandated that all tax-exempt organizations, other than churches and church-related organizations, must file an annual return with the IRS. The filing requirements vary. Second, the law also requires tax-exempt organizations that fail to be in compliance with its filing provisions automatically loses its federal tax-exempt status. Under the provisions of the act, a huge number of nonprofit organizations are currently scheduled to lose their status after having failed to meet the Act’s filing

requirements as of May 15th of 2010. Under a special one-time relief program recently announced by the IRS, nonprofits can come into compliance by Oct 15th without losing their tax exempt status. If they do not and lose their tax exempt status, then the following results will occur: • Donations made to the organizations will not be deductible as charitable expenses.

Donors may or may not be aware of this before filing.

• Revenues received by the organization may become taxable.

• The organization will have to re-file for tax exempt status in a lengthy and expensive

process which includes IRS filing fees of up to $850. Imagine getting in line nationally with 300,000 other entities….

Three Things Nonprofits Can Do Now to Save Tax Their Tax Exempt Status 1. Find out if you are on the list of thousands of organizations slated to lose their tax exempt status.

2. Find out what your filing mandate is.

3. Come into compliance before you lose your status and the charitable revenue streams you rely on.

ALAN SANDERSEN...

Understanding the Market Your Fort Bend Commercial Real Estate Experts

continued on page 60

Now

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

Kolbe Curtice

30 Years Experience Multi-Discipline

Jim Pratt

25 Years Experience Office/Industrial

John Novak

7 Years Experience Medical/Office

Jason Dillee

5 Years Experience Land/Industrial

Jason Scholtz

1 Year Experience Office/Retail

Call us for assistance with Fort Bend office, retail, industrial or commercial land sales and leasing.

Accelerating success.

15999 City Walk | Suite 250 | Sugar Land, TX 77479 | +1 281 494 4769 | www.curticecommercial.com

36

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

Offshore drilling moratorium killing area jobs

By Wayne Chandler

I

t’s believed some 200,000 jobs – many in the Greater Houston area-- are in jeopardy as the Deep Water Offshore Drilling Moratorium lingers.

That’s what Dr. Lee Hunt, president of the International Association of Drilling Contractors, told Katy Area Economic Development Council members in August.

“These major oil companies will be able to survive,” Hunt said, “but the middle-tosmall companies which support them won’t if this six-month moratorium continues. ” The big oil companies eventually will move their offshore rigs, he said.

“There’s a short supply of deep water rigs,” he said, reporting that three of these rigs already have been moved to Egypt, Africa and Brazil.

It’s costing $450,000 a day to the com-

Dr. Lee Hunt, president of the International Association of Drilling Contractors, addresses Katy Area Economic Development members in August 2010.

panies who own the other 32 deep water rigs which were ordered to close after British Petroleum’s Deepwater Horizon oil spill in April. “There are hundreds of men on these rigs who earn $60,000 to $70,000 a year by working 12 hour days for 28 days, and then

are off for 28 days,” Hunt said.

Hunt showed a map, with shaded areas in nine states including virtually all of Texas, representing nine drilling contractors and associated businesses which have a total of 11,875 employees in the Gulf of Mexico.

Hunt noted that the U.S. Department of the Interior’s decision to stop all rigs because one rig failed is costing billions of dollars, and that the Interior Department ignored a June 22 district judge’s ruling to lift the moratorium.

Interior Secretary Carol Browner’s decision was “a total shock to everyone,” Hunt said.

He noted the resolution opposing the moratorium which was approved in July by the Katy Area EDC, Katy Area Chamber of Commerce and Greater Fort Bend EDC. Meanwhile, Hunt stated that U.S. dependence on oil, from other sources, increases.

Ray Webb is Fort Bend County’s new director of Information Technology

R

ay Webb has joined Fort Bend County as its new Director of Information Technology.

He will lead the county’s Information Technology department and will report directly to the Commissioners Court.

Ray is a seasoned IT leader that can manage all aspects of an IT department, providing innovative state-of-the-art business solutions that match functionality and financial Ray Webb requirements. He has a track record of effectively using IT technology to solve problems while delivering significant reductions in the cost of doing business. Ray is a respected global IT leader of high performance teams that deliver value to their clients, and is regarded as a

key resource who has demonstrated success in relationship management with vendors, partners, peers and clients.

His work experiences include: • 16 years with the Bell System in which he held various technical and management roles in Central Office operations, Network Engineering and Customer Service. While assigned to Bell Labs, Ray played a key role in planning and implementation of systems, tools and processes that the Bell Operating Companies used after the Bell System divesture.

• 20 years with Compaq/HP in IT leadership roles, through heavy growth and worldwide expansion in the late 80’s and throughout the 90’s, including mergers with Tandem, Digital Equipment Corporation and HP. Ray concluded his work with HP by serving as the head of Global Managed Network Services pro-

viding services to HP worldwide and to external customers that had outsourcing agreements with HP. • 1 year as head of IT Infrastructure Services at Aegis Mortgage Corporation during a very difficult time for the mortgage industry in which managing cost was the top priority.

• 3 years as head of the Managed Services business unit at CHR Solutions, Inc. with P&L responsibility. This business unit provided a full range of IT consulting and IT outsourcing services for small to medium sized businesses.

Ray studied Electronic Technology at the US Air Force Technical Academy graduating with honors. He studied Business Administration at San Jacinto College.

Ray is proud to have served in the United States Air Force and is a Vietnam veteran.

September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

37

R

E

A

L

E

S

T

A

T

E

Commercial Real Estate

by Kolbe Curtice CCIM, CLS

Has The Recession Created Value Opportunities?

A number of my clients often ask me how much commercial real estate prices in Fort Bend have been impacted by the recent recession. A number of these clients are investors who are looking for value in a market that has in recent years been one of the strongest in Texas. Other clients are small business owners or professionals who are evaluating whether now is the appropriate time to transition from leasing property to ownership. I don’t feel there has been a better time since I have been involved in commercial real estate in Fort Bend County to purchase local property.

Land tracts in some of the best locations in the county are currently priced as much as 10% to 50% below where they were two years ago. Land values are determined by a

number of things. Among these are accessibility, visibility, zoning classification, deed restrictions, utility availability, development restrictions on the property, etc. The primary determinant of land value, however, is the demographic make-up (population, income, education, etc. ) of the area surrounding a property.

In many cases, property owners and developers today are selling surplus property tracts in order to utilize the proceeds to fund loan “curtailment” payments that are coming due on financing they have in place on their developments which may be struggling through the weaker economy with lower occupancy and rental rates. To generate sales activity and quick closings on these proper-

ties, these owners are reducing the asking prices on tracts.

Sales prices on a number of local improved commercial properties (shopping centers, office buildings, etc.) are dropping as well.

This is due to the higher capitalization rates being offered on weakened property cash flows and the limited sales activity due to purchasers limited access to capital. That said, a number of investors are disappointed that they are not finding the kind of discounts or bargains that they expected to be seeing in this market. The make-up of Fort Bend County has not changed over the past two years.

KOLBE CURTICE... continued on page 59

OCTOBER ISSUE

Breast cancer awareness issue Who’s Who In Fort Bend County Healthcare Chef Profiles In Fort Bend County Fort Bend/Katy

38

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

To Advertise Call Dean West Direct: 281-690-4201 • Cell: 713-899-0643 dean@fortbendstar.com

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

281-690-4221

Email: Michael@FortBendStar.com September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

39

COACHING TO INCREASE PRODUCTIVITY

Notes from the Coach

by Linda Starr / Starr/CTC

Summer’s Over!

It’s an old habit and old habits die hard.

We have been trained with our sixteenplus years of schooling to take it easy and play over the hot summer months. There is great temptation to let things slide.

Clients are over booked in an effort to make their way out of town for higher altitudes and new vistas. The weather is too hot to do much and families leave town to escape the sauna-summer of the Texas Gulf Coast.

The calendar tells us that it won’t be cooler until November first, but breaking news proclaims: Summer’s Over, and with its demise, comes the promise of a fresh new start.

We welcome a reboot to the year.

Happy New Year - Five thousand years of the Jewish calendar with its fall renewal has wrought its effect on the collective psyche. We are ready to turn a page and start afresh. The first two weeks of September is the perfect time to take a look at what has been outgrown, clear it away and create a launch pad for the final quarter.

Look at Your Last Quarter - Now is the perfect time to set the stage for the 2009 end game. We have a mere three months to accomplish whatever remains to be logged for this year. For many of us, December 15th starts the wind-down, so

it is the next ninety days that will determine how it all turns out.

Fall Checklist - Not sure where to begin? Get a clear mental picture of what you want to accomplish in these next three months.

Go quantative…write goals with numbers and deadlines. Streamline…touch everything in your office and jettison anything that will slow you down or pull you off task. Organize…put like with like and have one happy home for everything.

Ready? Set? Go for it!

Linda Starr is this area’s most experienced Productivity Coach. She can be reached at linda@StarrCTC.com.

IT’S HERE! Video. On Demand. 24/7.

On your website. Are you taking advantage of this powerful tool to set yourself apart from the competition?

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

Google and other search engines love video. A video on your website will place you higher in search rankings.

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

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

40

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

FORT BEND Aliana Business Blender

Jeffrey McLellan, CPA; Andi Wallis, Texana Center, and Robin Kalina, Sugar Creek Country Club.

On August 19, the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance and Aliana welcomed visitors to a Business Blender. It was held at Club at Aliana located at 17122 West Belfort in Richmond.

Travis Stone, Aliana, and Gail Parker, Chamber President/CEO.

Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance Board of Directors Chair Dan McDonald, Anco-McDonald Waterworks, and Austin Evans, Anco-Wessendorf Insurance Services.

Mia Monroe, Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance; Kevin Patton, State Farm Insurance; Justin Vickrey, Firt Victoria Bank, and Ricardo Aguilar, Lenny’s Sub Shop.

Anthony Francis, LJA Engineering; Jeff Council, Fort Bend County Treasurer, and Ann Council.

Marvin Marcell, Group 1 Auto, and Commissioner James Patterson.

Ron Voyles; Kamal Ariss, JE Dunn Construction; Jim Miller, and Mike O’Connell, SouthWest Water Co.

Wade Perry; Stacy Martinez, First Victoria Bank; Gilbert Limones, First Victoria Bank, and Dena Perry, Fort Bend Focus.

Travis Stone, Aliana and Lin Spear, Trendmakers Homes.

Travis Stone and the staff of Aliana.

Chef Soren Pedersen of Ray’s Gourmet Country in Fulshear.

BIG SHOTS

Methodist Sugar Land Hospital welcomes Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associate

M

ethodist Sugar Land Hospital announces a new affiliation with Jeffrey A. Jackson, M.D. and M. Faisal Khan, M.D., who have joined Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates. ““They share the values-based, personal approach to quality patient care that makes Methodist unique and this relationship such a great fit. Their patients will benefit from Methodist’s state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic technology, all right here in Fort Bend County,” said Ayse McCracken, Senior Vice President of The Methodist Hospital System and COO of The Methodist Hospital Physician Organization.

Dr. Jackson, who has been in practice in Sugar Land since 1995, has a long history of involvement in neuroimaging. Early in his career, he was selected by Baylor College of Medicine to help lead the installation of the first MRI machine in Texas. He also served on the board of the American Society of Neuroimaging and established an independent MRI center that served the Texas Medical Center.

After building one of the largest private neurology practices in the Texas Medical

Jeffrey A. Jackson, M.D. and M. Faisal Khan, M.D.

Center, Dr. Jackson opened an office in Fort Bend County and later moved his entire practice to Sugar Land. He has been on the medical staff at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital since its inception and Chief of Staff since 2006.

“I specialize in tertiary-level neurologic care and neurophysiology services, with an emphasis on providing personal attention to my patients,” said Dr. Jackson. “I’m proud to be a part of the Fort Bend community and pleased that Dr. Khan has joined me to enhance the level of care available to local patients.”

Dr. Khan specializes in a wide range

of neurological disorders, including epilepsy, stroke, headaches/migraines, sleep apnea and insomnia, movement disorders, carpal tunnel and dementia.

He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is a member of the American Academy of Neurology and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

He recently completed a sleep medicine fellowship at the prestigious Duke University.

Dr. Khan has been published in several peerreviewed national journals and collaborated in research studies with colleagues from Harvard and Duke. Most recently, he was Director of the Neurodiagnostic and Sleep Center at Gulf Coast Medical Center in Wharton.

“Neurology is a specialty that is known for constantly advancing technology and I am vigilant in staying at the forefront of advances,” he says. “By staying up-to-date on the latest techniques and treatment options, I can help patients achieve the highest possible quality of life.”

Methodist Sugar Land Neurology Associates is located at 16659 Southwest Freeway, Suite 131 in Medical Office Building II. To reach either Dr. Jackson or Dr. Khan, call 281-494-6387.

First robotic colorectal cancer surgery performed at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital continued from page 18 not be performed using traditional MIS technologies can now be performed using the da Vinci Surgical System. The advanced feature set and extensive EndoWrist® instrumentation of the da Vinci Surgical System enable surgeons to perform more procedures through 1-2 cm incisions.

By enhancing surgical capabilities, the da Vinci Surgical System helps to improve clinical outcomes and redefine standards of care. Patients may experience the following benefits: reduced trauma to the body, reduced blood loss and need for transfusions, less postoperative pain and discomfort, less risk of infection, shorter hospital stay, faster recovery and return to normal daily activities, and less

42

scarring and improved cosmesis.

Da Vinci’s advanced level of technology takes surgery beyond the limits of the human hand. “This acquisition compliments our goal of extending minimally invasive surgery to the broadest possible base of patients,” said Becky Chalupa, Associate Chief Nursing Officer. “It can be used for a multitude of procedures, including, but not limited to: prostatectomy (removal of the prostate), nephrectomy (removal of the kidney), hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), myomectomy (removal of uterine fibroids), coronary artery bypass, mitral valve repair and colorectal surgery.”

Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is initially

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

planning to use robotic surgery for gynecological, colorectal and urological surgeries.

The robot has created much excitement for many physicians who are looking forward to being part of the robotics team. “The robotics program is a continuation of Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s commitment to bringing the medical center home to Fort Bend County, as well as finding and applying the most precise, most beneficial surgical techniques to put patients on a quicker road to recovery with better outcomes,” said Dr. Pickron.

For additional information call Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s physician referral line 281-274-7500 or visit MethodistSugarLand. com.

Methodist Sugar Land Hospital celebrates new Spine Center

M

ethodist Sugar Land Hospital continues their legacy of Leading Medicine by bringing the only comprehensive back and neck pain program in Southeast Texas to Fort Bend County.

“Now residents of Fort Bend County and surrounding counties can have access to comprehensive, state-of-the-art care for back and neck pain,” said Mayor Pro Tem, Thomas Abraham.

The center features a unique spine care navigation service, designed to help patients receive the complete spine care they need from diagnosis and treatment through rehabilitation services — all in one convenient location.

It’s not uncommon for people suffering with back and neck pain to try many kinds of treatment without real relief, and it can be frustrating to wait many weeks for an appointment with a specialist. At the core

of Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Spine Center is a nurse practitioner or “navigator” who will help patients get going in the right

direction.

“We believe patients with back and neck pain should have the benefit of comprehensive care that includes easy access and a simple process from start to finish,” says Rajesh K. Bindal, M.D., board-certified neurosurgeon and medical director of the Spine Center.

“Our innovative approach to care helps all patients — walk-ins and those with physician referrals — see the right specialist they need very quickly.”

The new Spine Center is located on the Methodist Sugar Land Hospital campus with easy access off Town Center Boulevard.

For more information or to schedule an appointment at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Spine Center, please call 281-313BACK (2225). For more information on Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, visit www.

MethodistSugarLand.com or call 281-2747500 for a physician referral.

Lowell Stanton, CFO, Methodist Sugar Land Hospital; Cheryl White, M.D.; Janet Leatherwood, CNO, Methodist Sugar Land Hospital; Rajesh K. Bindal, M.D., Medical Director of the Spine Center; Maureen Lall, Nurse Navigator at the Spine Center; Lonnie Meadows, Board Member, Methodist Sugar Land Hospital and Donald Smithers, Council Member, City of Sugar Land.

WHY DID 250 COMPANIES MAKE CCR THEIR RESEARCH FIRM OF CHOICE FOR OVER 1500 PROJECTS IN 2009 ?

TRUST.

For: Telephone Surveys • Focus Groups • One-On-One Interviews • Spanish Language Interviews • Mall Intercepts Mock Jury Panels • In-store Interviewing • Taste Test Interviews • Mystery Shops • Coding/Data Entry • CATI Programming Give us a call today.

In Houston: Sajan Pillai B.J. Gerjes 877.530.9646 ccrhouston@ccrsurveys.com

EXCEEDING C

USTOMER

E

In Phoenix: Y-Vette Cave Dixie Cobos 877.906.0666 ccrphoenix@ccrsurveys.com

XPECTATIONS

F

OR

O

VER

30 Y

E A R S.

September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

43

NEWSWORTHY Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Triathlon benefits six non-profits A full field of 800 participants competed in the 13th annual Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Triathlon recently, helping to raise nearly $10,000 for six non-profits. Beneficiaries include Children’s Memorial Hermann Sugar Land, the pediatric service at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital; Cenikor, Fort Bend Rainbow Room, AutismSpeaks, First Colony Swim Team and Cherish Our Children International.

“Having a title sponsor like Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital that is community-involved, just like Finish Line Sports, enables us to distribute race proceeds to deserving charities,” said Race Coordinator Andy Stewart of Finish Line Sports.

At least 250 triathletes were first-time participants in the event, which Stewart says is one of the largest triathlons in the Houston area. The course consists of a 300-meter pool swim, 10-mile bike ride, and three-mile run.

“Memorial Hermann Sugar Land is honored to have our name associated with this triathlon and Finish Line Sports,” said Jennifer Zimmerman, director of business development for the hospital. “We are pleased to be able to extend our community outreach services to the athletes of Fort Bend County and to be on the ground at the triathlon with athletic trainers, sports medicine physicians and other volunteers.

Recent Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance Ribbon Cuttings Identity Homes (Walnut Creek, Rosenberg): Alicia Davis, Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance; Rocky Lane, Lane Real Estate; Andi Wallis, Texana; Sharilyn Scuh, Star Tex Title; Matt Fielder, Rosenberg Economic Development, Corp; Judy LaLonde, American PromoPrint; Vickie Autrey, Amegy Bank; Lisa Matthews, ServPro of West Fort Bend; Gail Parker, Chamber President/CEO; Derek Finley, WJ Interests, LLC; Chance Brown, Identity Homes; Manny Reyes, Houston Community Federal Credit Union; Tom Wilson, Reading Road Storage; Linda Richard, Prudential; George Boyum, American PromoPrint; Barbara Phillips, Sugar Land Magazine; Charlie Braun, bizINTOUCH, and Sollie Davis, First Victoria Bank Rosenberg.

Broken 9 Boutique (Rosenberg): From left: Sollie Davis, First Victoria Bank Rosenberg; Rocky Lane, Lane Real Estate; Lou Jackson; Shirley Jackson, La Casona Mexican Restaurant; Gail Parker, Chamber President/ CEO; George Boyum, American PromoPrint; Cathey Holmes, Broken 9; Kendall Litchfield, Broken 9; Cathy Pitts, Anco-McDonald Waterworks; Tom Wilson, Reading Road Storage; Barbara Phillips, Sugar Land Magazine; Linda Richard, Prudential, and Georgia Flynn, Avant-Garde Consulting, Inc.

CFB Chamber Alliance Business Luncheon State Senator Tommy Williams, Dist. 4, was the guest speaker Friday, Aug. 13, at the Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance’s August Business Luncheon at Safari Texas Ranch in Richmond. Senator Williams, who was recently appointed Chairman of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Homeland Security, discussed the present and future of transportation and infrastructure in Texas.

State Senator Tommy Williams, Dist. 4, and James Dannenbaum, President Dannenbaum Engineering (Presenting Sponsor).

Artique gifts and fine art coming soon to Lake Pointe Town Center

Andy Stewart of Finish Line Sports, center, presents a $1,000 check from the 13th annual Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Triathlon to Memorial Hermann Foundation representatives to benefit Children’s Memorial Hermann Sugar Land, the pediatric service of Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital. Accepting the gift for the Foundation are Cecelia Garcia, senior director of development, and Michelle Hildreth, director of development.

44

Artique Gifts and Fine Art is a new tenant at Lake Pointe Town Center. The specialty gift and fine art store will feature trendy silver jewelry, original art, home accessories, glass artwork and adult and children’s accessories.

Storeowner Kalpana Jain, who is an artist herself, will display original art and teach classes to adults and children.

Jain was drawn to Lake Pointe “because of its proximity to the busy intersection of U.S. Highway 59 and State Highway 6 in Sugar Land.” Open space, visibility of the

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

development and building layout were also key factors in choosing the location for her first store.

Artique Gifts and Fine Art is located at 15870 Southwest Freeway, Suite 400 and includes 1,165 square feet of retail space.

The store is scheduled to open for business in mid-September.

Jain represented herself in the transaction. Charles Adams, vice president of retail for Planned Community Developers, represented PCD.

Submit Newsworthy items to sharon@fortbendstar.com

America ranks 12th in education in the world The Call to Community Business Leaders – The Time Is Now Achieve Fort Bend County seeks mentors to help students stay in school

By Elsa Maxey

A

profound statement: “The only way we will turn around public education in Texas is for the business community to realize that their future is at stake.” Bill Hammond, President and CEO of the Texas Association of Business spoke those words recently about the dropout costs to communities. To turn those costs around Board President of ACHIEVE Fort Bend County Lucia Street is spurring on a county wide initiative committed to drop out prevention and recovery. “This is a prime motivator for ACHIEVE and I am encouraging business leaders to turn out and support the upcoming mentoring conference.”

The ACHIEVE Fort Bend County-Wide Mentoring Conference is set for 8 a.m. 2 p.m. Wednesday, September 29, at the Stafford Centre at 10505 Cash Road in Stafford. “Its purpose is to bring business and community leaders, education advocates, public safety leaders, and new and experienced mentors together in a forum for learning tips and strategies to benefit the youth of Fort Bend County,” says Street. “Perhaps, an easier way to understand what a mentor does is to use the analogy of a coach - a graduation coach. Coaches encourage, support and help individuals recognize their own skills and gifts.”

“The U.S. is the only country among 30 free-market countries where the current generation is less well educated than the previous one,” states Street. “While we score among one of the highest countries in numbers of well educated people, we also score near the top in the largest number of people at the lowest education levels.” According to Street, this reality radically affects the youth of Fort Bend County.

Towards this beginning, the aim is to help students throughout Fort Bend county graduate from high school by employing measures to help them stay in school and reach their goals. Here’s a shocking statistic: One third of all students who enter high school don’t graduate, reports ACHIEVE Fort Bend County, and the organization’s purpose is to change

James D. Rice

Joe Swinbank

Jean C. Goff

James D. Rice, LEED® AP BD+C, CxA President/FBISD Board of Trustees “Each generation stands on the vantage point created by the preceding generation. When it comes to public education, the importance of which has never been greater, it is up to us as responsible adults to determine whether our children will stand on a hill or in a hole. Please support public education and the Achieve Fort Bend Mentoring Conference.”

Joe Swinbank Sprint Waste Services, Partner “Sprint Waste would like for all students to have the opportunity to hear about the great jobs going unfilled in the industrial trades and then have those students be able to take classes in high school to prepare them for those jobs.”

Jean C. Goff Vice-President, Post Oak Bank “Learning never stops for all people, all ages, and we especially all benefit from having a mentor, someone to look up to and admire and learn from as we go. If we stop learning, we stop growing. The mind is too much of a beautiful thing to waste!”

that number by impacting the nationwide concern locally in the county. “Fort Bend business leaders are known for making things happen,” says Street.

As the organizer of the two upcoming events, ACHIEVE Fort Bend County has set its county-wide, second annual Dropout Recovery Walk for Saturday, September 11.

This will include Fort Bend ISD, Stafford MSD, Lamar CISD, and Needville ISD, with each hosting its own Dropout Recovery Walk with specific locations and times to follow.

“The Dropout Recovery Walk literally and figuratively is to show students that the community supports them and wants them to be successful,” she adds.

And she repeats: From 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, September 29, ACHIEVE Fort Bend County-Wide Mentoring Conference will be held at the Stafford Centre at 10505 Cash Road in Stafford.

Street, who volunteers her time alongside the entire membership of the organization,

Mike O’Connell

Leonard Scarcella

Mike O’Connell SouthWest Water Company “Education changes lives and futures in positive ways.

It removes barriers from the path to success and has always played a huge role in the journey toward the American dream.

ACHIEVE Fort Bend County is dedicated to making that dream a real possibility for as many young men and women as seek help. Please join our team by giving your support to the ACHIEVE Ft. Bend Mentoring Conference.”

Mayor Leonard Scarcella City of Stafford “Now more than ever, the pressure is on American businesses to become involved with the education of our students who are being challenged by youngsters around the globe.

The ACHIEVE Fort Bend Mentoring Conference will afford local businesses the opportunity to understand the importance and a means of participation in this most critical endeavor. We urge all local businesses to make arrangements to attend this conference.”

invites the business community and other community concerned leaders to participate in what can make the difference in the life of a student in as little as one hour a week. In particular, “We are really wanting businesses to recognize that helping our young people succeed in school works to their advantage as well. All businesses want an educated and skilled workforce,” and she adds, “and schools can greatly benefit from partnering relationships with the business community, which can help inspire a future workforce.”

She invites the business community and other leaders to participate in what can make the difference in the life of a student in as little as one hour a week.

Some ACHIEVE Fort Bend Board members share their own inspiring testimonials and encourage public participation of businesses and community leaders at the mentoring conference. Additional information is available at www.achievefortbendcounty.org or by calling 281.340.1991.

September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

45

Data Beat DBA (Assumed Names)

(+) = More Names

This is a sample of the Assumed Names (DBAs) filed at the Fort Bend County Clerk’s office for July 2010. More Assumed Names may be viewed online at http://ccweb.co.fort-bend.tx.us/RealEstate/SearchEntry.aspx. There were 405 Assumed Names with Notary Fee for month of July. There were also 116 Assumed Names without a notary fee.

JONES JIM Jim Jones Insurance 1802 Plantation Dr 77406

BROWNLEE MICHAEL Brownlee Car Sales 4123 Sandripple Ln 77449

WILLIAMS ELLIOTT Time To Shine 1714 Hunter Green 77545

HARRIS CATHERINE M Xlr8 Translogistics 16802 Tranquil Drive 77498

GOSS PAULINE (+) Fancy Pants 1809 Ave H 77471

NELSON SCOTT R (+) S-L Nelson Enterprises 6210 Clear Canyon Dr 77045

HARRIS MATTHEW Kidz Gone Wild 2023 Grandwillow Ln 77469

TURNER PRESTON Le Pheon 207 Boardwalk Pkwy 77477

CROATT CAROLE J Molly Maid Of Missouri City And West Ft Bend 6911 Kari Lane 77469

VASQUEZ LUIS Ace Roofing And Construction 4003 Cotton Lake Court 77407

KAMINSKI TRENTON T.K.O. Spices And Herbs 15056 First Street 77461 TURNER KIMBERLY Dynasty Creations 1611 Buckwood Ct 77545 WATTS BERTHA Gracious Floor Care 2130 Fall Meadow 77459 HARMON MELODY A My Sisters’ Keeper Ministries 6735 Pickett Drive 77469 HARMON MELODY A Day Of Perfection Wedding Services 6735 Pickett Drive 77469 GREEN TILMAN A Jr Triple T Transportation 13843 1/2 Reagar Rd 77417-9642 SCHEARER JESSICA Joppamakeover 8787 Sienna Springs Blvd #234 77459 MATTHEWS KENDRIC K Rap Star Records Executive Producer: K. Matthews 2020 Rocky Falls 77469 MCCULLOUGH ANDETRICHA Kingdom Blessings Beauty Supply 2710 Scottsdale Palms Dr 77459

46

WALKER LISA J J J Services 3202 Holly Glen Ln 77471 FAIZI RASOUL R. F Handyman 14231 Fm 1464 Apt # 18106 77498

ONEIL JEFFERY (+) Faircreditinvestigationcompany (Fcic) (+) 8800 Torricello 77407 GEX LESLIE B (+) C & L Landscaping And Powerwashing Po Box 1972 77406 HURST LATONYA In Case Of An Emergency Entertainment “I.C.E.” 7018 Mccullum 77489 MATTHEWS KENDRIC K Federal Real Estate Mansion House Lawyertaxassociate4degree (+) 2020 Rocky Falls 77469

BIEDIGER DAVID W Dwb Properties 22402 Fincastle Drive 77450 SHAH REALTY LLC Shah Realty 3610 Honey Creek Dr 77478 OKEKE GABRIEL Gabbok Ventures 1931 Oak Hollow Ct 77489 CASEY TAMANISHA Tmc Consultants 2111 Thompson Rd #202 77469

CARRILLO SHERICE S C Services 16303 Deanmont 77053

SIDNEY BUSTER L Sydney’s & Leon’s World Finest, In & Out B.B.Q. House 7129 Broadway 77581

KACAL AMANDA Rustic Diva Designs 11600 Gaston Road #1406 77494

MATHERS KEVIN High Point Construction 2603 Parrot Shell Lane 77406

KLINE EDWIN J Pristine Lawn & Yard Services BELLAND JEREMY 20922 Medallion Pointe Dr 77450 Hjt Services 2338 Barton River Ct 77469 GIGOUT TRACI L The Modern Beauty Company HINOJOSA LOUIS FREDERICK 1147 Shillington 77450 Bruce And Eddy 21546 Hank Spur Ridge 77406 PLAN CRUISE AND TRAVEL LLC Plan Cruise And Travel Llc WASHINGTON FLETCHIE H P O Box 66736 77266 Heard-Davis Family Reunion 2047 Wildwood Ridge Drive PATEL DIPIKA HITESH 77489 Sunny Liquor 20041 Katy Freeway 77450 ZAFAR FAWAD (+) Authorized Activation Center BOYKINS BRITTA C (+) 11134 Hwy 6 S #210 Boykins Fine Photography 2013 Haven Springs Ln 77469 ZAPATA ALFREDO Zapata’s Construction Co. JONES KIT 1310 East State Street 77434 Springhouse Water Management Products IVERY LEONARD 707 Main St 77469 Ivery Trucking Company 111 Nina Lane 77477 PERRO DORETTA D’medical Services BINDER MARC (+) 4127 Fisher Lake Dr 77406 Hpip Expo 2614 Double Lake Dr 77459 HARP GARY Phoenix Judgement Recovery ODUNSI ANTONIA 13723 Southline 77498 Tender Care Ambulance Services THOMPSON RAMONA 4423 Tessie Ct 77479 A Eddiag 803 Kirkwood 77477

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

BLALACK JEFFREY BARRY National Roofing Company 323 Disney St 77583

TILLMAN ARNOLD Richberg Records 603 Seabourne Meadows 77471 M & P VENTURE INC A+Mart #1 7152 Parker Road 77016 M & P VENTURE INC A+Mart #2 5455 Court Rd 77053 HAMRES INC Fort Bend Kitchen & Bath Remodeling 12603 Executive Dr Ste 800 77477 HAMRES INC Hamre’s Floors 12603 Executive Dr Ste 800 77477 HAMRES INC Fort Bend Kitchens & Baths 12603 Executive Dr Ste 800 77477 FOROUZESHYEKTA HAMIDREZA Medical Uniforms 1403 Highway 6 77479 DELAROSA PAUL E H.U.S.H. Printing 3934 Fuqua Lot B 77047

DELAROSA PAUL E H.U.S.H. - Hustle Until Something Happens Dvd 33934 Fuqua Lot B 77047 ROBERTSON BRANDY Epic Center For Dance 1027 Junction Court 77471 TORRES CORINA A A Theme Come True 3302 Sturbridge Ln 77479 OKEKE ADAORA Avenue A Enterprices 13911 Veera Ln 77498 GARBARINO VICTOR Garbarino Contracting 4707 Pin Oak Park Dr #322 77081 HOWARD JAMES STERLING All Kinos Electric Company 3435 Yellow Stone Blvd 77021 EAKIN ELZA Elza B Eakin Photography 7506 Summerdale Dr 77469 PERLA GREGORY JOSE Trompos Mexican Restaurant 2303 1St St 77471 HOWARD TITO Holiday Barbecue 10442 Caribou Cove 77459 GILES GEORGE ANDREW Drew G. Enterprises 911 Lane Dr #33 77471 FRANKLIN DEMETRIA L Sigma Omega Phi Fraternity Incorporated 5511 Parkstone Ct 77479 KUYKENDALL CARLA Pooh’s Closet 2006 Lansing Cove Dr 77545 MKM AUTOMOTIVE Automax #2 3007 Texas Pkwy 77459 MATTHEWS KENDRIC K Santa Claus, Mrs.Claus, Candy, Toy Factory Christmas Magic Woporation Work Shop Gifts 2020 Rocky Falls 77469

Data Beat DBA (Assumed Names)

PACHECO ROBERT V Rp Screen Printer 9700 Leawood #505 77099

HOULIHAN ANNABEL Country Girl Gone Crafty 16243 Paso Dobble Dr 77083

WILLIAMS DAVONDA H (+) COTTON VIVA Noelle Simone And Associates Masters Driving Academy 1411 Elden Hills Way 77494 P O Box 330991 77233-0991 DE REYES MARIA GONZALEZ 7 Star Food Mart 2425 First St 77471

HARKNESS TOM Outland Resources 34311 Hannibal Rd 77441

GARCIA LORENZO Supercut Landscaping 8383 El Munde St # 522 77054

COLE YINKA La Yink Home Care Services 3003 Bridgewater Manor Ln 77449

MEJIA MILTON M M&M Marketing Group 2835 Lost Field Ln 77406 RIMEK ROBERT SETH Rimek Investment Group 847 Sunshine Medley Ln 77469-4873 DUNCAN IOLA G D-Uncani Way, Inc. Llc 3403 Duncaster Ct 77459 WILLIAMS DIANNE Aquatic Pool Specialists 709 Dog Leg Ct 77469 TOUSANT LEON JR Miesant And Associates 7930 Belbay St 77033 ELLIOTT ERIC E. Elliott Enterprises (3E) 7402 Swan Ranch Ln 77407 RANDALL ANNA Drinkin’ Wagon Cookers 8715 Altimore Rd 77461 HERNANDEZ MICHELLE N Tejas Shirts And Signs 7911 Arbor Hill Ct 77479 BROWN DE’ADRIEN HUDSON Gap Speech Therapy & Consulting 2026 Grand Park Dr 77489 GOOCH MELANIE G Ten Shadows Farm 1108 Winner Foster 77406 OSES ELIO O Fuego Inc. 2014 Courtshire Ln 77478 CALDWELL JERRY D Pleasant Town Car Service 1724 Village Park Dr 77489

BIRD JESSICA R Lagniappe 3814 Shire Valley Dr 77459 WESTCHASE MINUTEMAN INC Minuteman Press 4519 Bermuda 77479 (SWAG) SOUTHWEST AUTOMOTIVE GROUP LLC (Swag) Southwest Automotive Group Llc 10530 Windsor Lane 77031 SABRSULA HALLIE Aw Shoot! Photography 310 S 7Th St 77417 CANNON THOMAS L (+) Bargain Hunters Consignment 5136 Avenue H 77471 HARPER CHINA N Domicile 16102 Taloncrest Dr 77083 CRAMER JOHN A Essential Vibrations 3330 Country Club Blvd 77477 TROIANO JERAMY MARK Family Tech 3227 Oak Park Ln 77459 EDWARDS TIFFANY Apexena Learning Solutions 20918 Bright Lake Bend Ct 77407 EDWARDS TIFFANY Belle Amandier Designs 20918 Bright Lake Bend Ct 77407 FATEYE OLABODE (+) Buddy Wheels Motors 9323 Danforth Way 77083 THE COFFEE CLUB LLC (+) Z Sushi & Wine Bar 9050 Hwy 6 Suite 120 77459

GREEN SHERMAN Green’s Family Landscaping & Maintenance 1208 Trenton St 77469

HOWARD DEBORAH C Angelwings Enrichment & Healthcare Services 2010 Quail Valley East Dr 77459

RAMIREZ DAVID Five Star Plastering P O Box 1327 77406

JOHNSON MONA C Mona Lisa’ Gourmet Enterprises 2027 Fairwood Knoll 77545

RAMIREZ DAVID Ramirez Brothers P O Box 1327 77406 HAAG PHILLIP Jr Psylocke 7502 Leecast Ot 77407 BALASUBRAMANIAN VIDHYA Everyday Bookkeeping Services 4514 Broken Rock Ln 77479 BYRD COURTLAND (+) Cb’s Barber Shop 2027 Hwy 90A 77489 ELKURDI KATHY LE Bh Hair Dtudio 23701 Cinco Ranch Blvd #160 77494 MCABE KELLY Texas Gulf Coast American Staffordshore Terrier Club 7211 Pigeon Cove Circle 77459 MCABE KELLY American Staffordshire Terrier Club Of Texas 7211 Pigeon Cove Circle 77459

FALTYSEK JORDAN Texas Disciples Basesball Club 20235 Chelsea Canyon Ct 77450 DELEON AURELIO Jr A. D’s Affordable Lawn Care 4514 Wild Rosehill Ln 79469 PULEO PAULINE M The Tobacco Leaf (+) 13110 Joan St 77477 SANMI TAIBAT-ORIYOMI Tommzie Home Care Provider 11710 Briar Forest #1111 77077

(+) = More Names

SINGH BALVINDER City Wide Motorcars 16339 Boss Gaston 77489 LE THU Lavender Nails 28137 Dulles Ever 77459 WOOKEY KAREN L A Quilted Treasure 1002 Country Club Drive 77469 CENTRO FAMILIAR CRISTIANO Cfc Bilingual Academy 11000 Dairy Ashford 77478 YOUNG LORENZO Penny’s Janitorials 14504 Briar Forest Drive #1026 77077 EVANS KAMBERLEY Strides 8127 Golden Harbour 77459

OSIFO MICHAEL GOODELL HOWARD LEE Jr A Medical Supply Howard Lee Goodell Jr 8414 Hwy 6 South 77083 7115 South Mason Rd #313 77407 VIRANI SALMAN GANS ALISA M Ink N Toner Factory Iamglamsports Apparel 4888 Hwy 90A Ste #500 77479 3823 Shoreview Lane 77459 TEXAS CROSSBOW PORTER LINDA ENGINEERS LLC Meadows Place Solar Screens Texas Crossbow Engineers 11822 Meadowdale Dr 77477 16419 Pecan Dr 77498 PORTER LINDA Timewarped Treasures 11822 Meadowdale Dr 77477

GRANBERRY JEAN Dickey’s Old Time Barber Shop 13414 Greenway Dr 77498

SHEPHERD BRITTANY Prince Yuuri 4335 Trailwood Dr 77479

COLLINS DAVID M (+) Dmc Transportation 16707 Quailview Ct 77489

OKONMA HENRY Miracle Ems 10100 Belknap Rd 77498

LOPEZ SAMUEL Sam’s Power Washing 10802 Garden Place Dr 77498

SANFORD CLIFFORD RAY II Fresno Power & Lawn Equipment 4719 Fm 521 Rd 77545

ESQUIVEL MARCUS B Injurylawyerforme.Com 903 Emeral Glen Ct 77479

CAMPBELL ALBERTA R (+) A & J’s Tutorial Service 3122 Apple Drive 77459 UKADIKE CHUKWUKA C-Jenico International 16607 Cold Harbor Lane 77083 SANTIBANEZ HUMBERTO H.S. Roofing & Pressure Washing 9950 Clubcreek Dr 77036 SANDERS ALLISON Smiley Steps 1906 Sutters Chase Dr 77479

MILLIL JOSEPH J (+) SIMON MYRTHA My Mobile Subtle National Pride 8321 Broadway Ste 120 77584 18114 Oakfield Crossing 77407 COBBIN CALVIN OSIFO MICHAEL Kali Kare Express Enterprise 4410 Convento Dr 77406 8414 Hwy 6 South 77083 HOLMES KENNON FIELDS ANTOINETTE Holmes’ Tasty Treats Home Experts 603 Tori 77469 3202 Confeferate Dr 77459 HEARD GREGORY (+) ZAINAB BADRUDEEN KHALFAN Not Just A Hotdog Zayn Couture 819 Merlin Roost 77494 4252 Bluebonnet Dr 77477

September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

47

Data Beat

AUGUST 2010 Sales Tax Allocation Comparison Summary Reports Sales Tax Allocation Comparison Summary reports present data about monthly local sales and use tax allocation payments to local sales taxing jurisdictions.

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

County/City Fort Bend

Net Payment This Period

Comp Payment Prior Year

% Change To Date

2009 Payments To Date

2008 Payments Change

Percent

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

16,903.47 5,187.39 45,002.76 1,493.70 95,831.15 609,784.05 39,752.42 4,375.29 5,339.93 375,303.59 1,101,515.62 8,917.75 1,251,602.82 3,611,951.61 2,246.13

22,148.15 7,340.26 34,685.24 1,435.10 102,453.29 565,491.79 32,754.56 3,137.47 4,055.17 359,986.58 1,008,383.21 5,687.75 1,302,926.51 3,598,378.89 1,592.87

-23.67% -29.32% 29.74% 4.08% -6.46% 7.83% 21.36% 39.45% 31.68% 4.25% 9.23% 56.78% -3.93% 0.37% 41.01%

157,208.94 40,664.57 251,364.76 10,842.90 650,902.39 4,051,654.31 239,696.32 29,146.78 54,458.60 2,791,463.70 7,531,708.76 69,627.28 8,747,759.15 25,623,723.40 24,603.33

209,973.30 52,004.52 242,183.90 10,365.44 724,957.62 4,013,329.99 258,139.40 32,184.08 29,038.81 2,880,631.01 7,153,186.67 34,246.80 9,612,627.43 26,951,399.39 11,055.39

-25.12% -21.80% 3.79% 4.60% -10.21% 0.95% -7.14% -9.43% 87.53% -3.09% 5.29% 103.31% -8.99% -4.92% 122.54%

COUNTY TOTAL 7,175,207.68

7,050,456.84

1.76%

50,274,825.19

52,215,323.75

-3.71%

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

City

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

48

Net Payment This Period

Comp Payment Prior Year

45,650,238.57 20,158,813.62 20,666,739.52 12,109,947.34 9,112,376.68 8,490,099.58 6,415,450.04 6,247,700.41 5,995,227.52 5,674,604.67 4,945,781.13 4,773,347.10 4,858,554.84 4,535,166.96 4,064,584.12 3,611,951.61 3,801,366.25 3,560,718.21 3,495,932.76 3,002,168.60

45,157,296.30 19,433,571.26 20,336,785.97 12,797,976.45 9,503,414.45 8,143,524.44 6,127,783.97 4,839,571.81 5,463,194.72 5,485,486.78 4,941,166.18 5,271,193.24 4,730,547.70 5,447,425.94 3,688,399.56 3,598,378.89 3,599,779.68 3,274,584.85 3,140,047.37 3,243,800.59

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

% Change To Date

1.09% 3.73% 1.62% -5.37% -4.11% 4.25% 4.69% 29.09% 9.73% 3.44% 0.09% -9.44% 2.70% -16.74% 10.19% 0.37% 5.59% 8.73% 11.33% -7.44%

2009 Payments To Date

2008 Payments Change

319,531,847.39 140,711,006.29 139,048,394.08 92,849,711.71 65,908,888.25 55,679,904.97 46,431,264.62 42,423,350.12 40,019,066.87 38,134,787.57 37,393,019.40 37,229,199.61 33,435,103.71 29,953,228.63 27,131,462.61 25,623,723.40 24,155,648.01 23,410,122.41 23,047,004.83 22,502,926.12

340,113,027.03 138,207,353.78 142,749,729.67 89,221,353.27 67,100,517.23 53,809,974.88 44,139,668.88 38,636,899.93 37,390,129.27 38,881,440.39 37,346,433.51 39,634,710.33 33,216,381.78 32,045,195.12 25,327,628.60 26,951,399.39 24,126,801.25 24,495,568.97 21,755,956.17 24,231,023.32

Percent

-6.05% 1.81% -2.59% 4.06% -1.77% 3.47% 5.19% 9.80% 7.03% -1.92% 0.12% -6.06% 0.65% -6.52% 7.12% -4.92% 0.11% -4.43% 5.93% -7.13%

Data Beat

Commercial Building Permits

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

TYPE OF PERMIT

VALUE

ROSENBERG 5021 Airport Ave 3911 Ave I

Commercial Building Commercial Building

$500,000 $16,938

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial & Residential)

07/01/10-07/31/10

$543,871

RICHMOND 1410 Williams Way Blvd Rd.

Commercial Building

$2,636,769

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial & Residential)

07/01/10-07/31/10

$2,636,769

STAFFORD 12201 Southwest Fwy 13843 North Promenade 450 10101 Stafford Centre Dr B 12560 Southwest Fwy

Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building Commercial Building

$527,000 $251,660 $48,500 $50,000

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial & Residential)

07/01/10-07/31/10

$977,255

SUGAR LAND 16754 Southwest Fwy Ste B 1521 Lake Pointe Pkwy 14141 Southwest Fwy Level 10 14141 Southwest Fwy Level 2 4690 Sweetwater Blvd Ste 140 1040 Industrial Blvd 13131 Dairy Ashford Rd Ste 390 16605 Southwest Fwy Ste 300 16605 Southwest Fwy Ste 520 7320 US Hwy 90A Ste 160 4507 State Hwy 6 13131 Dairy Ashford Rd Ste 230 1201 Brooks St Ste 100 50 Sugar Creek Center Blvd Ste 200

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

$75,000 $1,533,950 $800,298 $1,449,650 $100,000 $131,887 $64,729 $227,457 $198,607 $200,000 $42,000 $46,000 $138,248 $43,560

Grand Total Valuation (Commercial & Residential)

07/01/10-07/31/10

$17,818,008

OWNER/CONTRACTOR Holiday Builders, Inc LAMAR CISD/Bass Construction

Fort Bend County/The Turner Corporation

Texas Instruments/Owner/Occupant Cobalt Avera Freeport/Multi-Band/Angler Construction TAEP Stafford LP/Meridian /Constructors LLC Taco Bell #17354/Jerry Kachel Builders

Karim Pirani/Maya Construction Sundance Construction Co. HE Sugar Land Buildings, LP/D E Harvey Builders, Inc HE Sugar Land Buildings, LP/D E Harvey Builders, Inc FCB Fort Bend Holdings, LLC/Crossmark Devel & Constr LLC City of Sugar Land/Watlee Construction Inc of Tex GPI-M Sugar Creek, LP/Ruppel Construction Methodist Hospital/South Coast Const Services Inc Methodist Hospital/South Coast Const Services Inc Highway 90 Plaza partners, LP/Business Diversified Group Halle Enterprises L I C/Royce James Construction GPI M Sugar Creek, LP/J H Premier Construction, Inc H & G Builders & Associates Sugar Creek Opportunity Fund I/Goldshire Developers, LLC

Significant Land Transactions Some significant land transactions in Fort Bend during the month of July 2010. Land transactions can be researched on line at http:// ccweb.co.fort-bend.tx.us/search.asp?cabinet=opr. Some entries may be conveying mineral rights.

SELLER

BUYER

ACRES

Westheimer Holdings Llc Westheimer Lakes Phase 2 Lp 3.8523 Ac A574 Westheimer Holdings Llc Westheimer Lakes Phase 2 Lp 3.2119 Ac A574 Westheimer Holdings Llc Westheimer Lakes Phase 2 Lp 3.8523 Ac A574 Gulf Coast Water Authority (+) Public 0.9073 Ac A16 I-10 Poorman Investments Inc (+) Moody Simmons 1463 Ltd 0.825 Ac A157 Texas State of Cloister Development Group Ltd. 6.37 Ac A96

SELLER

BUYER

Stewart Tenna

Nnp Telfair Lp (+)

Fort Bend County Levee Improvement District No 17

Centerpoint Energy Houston Electric Llc Centerpoint Energy Houston Electric Llc Centerpoint Energy Houston Electric Llc

ACRES Part 13.5 Ac A50 1651.239 Ac A9 12.366 Ac A32

September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

49

NAMES IN THE Frito-Lay Partners with Wharton County Junior College for $500,000 Job-Training Grant Frito-Lay North America Inc. (Frito Lay) has partnered with Wharton County Junior College to provide job training using a $500,000 Skills Development Fund grant from the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC).

The grant will be used to custom train 451 new and incumbent workers on new technology upgrades to equipment and systems.

Upon completion of training, the workers will earn an average hourly wage of $18.37.

“This grant represents an investment in our future,” said TWC Chairman Tom Pauken. “We take pride in the fact that we can continue to provide businesses a ready and highly skilled workforce.”

In Fiscal Year (FY) 2009, Skills Development Fund grants created or upgraded 19,516 jobs, which paid an average hourly wage of $24.44. These grants assisted 170 Texas employers with their customized training needs. The Legislature appropriated $90 million to the Skills Development Fund for the 2010-11 biennium. Employers seeking more information about the Skills Development Fund may visit the TWC Web site at http://skills.texasworkforce.org.

Representatives Ray Brown of Frito-Lay, WCJC president Betty McCrohan. TWC chairman Tom Pauken and another Frito-Lay representative hold the $500,000 check.

50

Dr. Amitabh Shukla named medical director—Methodist Sugar Land Stroke Center Amitabh Shukla, M.D., has been named Medical Director of the Methodist Sugar Land Stroke Center.

Dr. Shukla is board-certified in neurology, psychiatry, electrodiagnostic medicine and sleep medicine. He was recently named a diplomat in vascular neurology, the only physician currently working in the Fort Bend area with this background.

Dr. Shukla is leading the hospital’s efforts toward certification as a Primary Stroke Center through the Joint Commission.

Methodist Sugar Land Hospital is also participating in the “Get with the Guidelines”

program through the American Stroke Association, which will allow the hospital to track its performance on key stroke indicators.

“A major area of focus Amitabh Shukla for the Center will be stroke prevention through education,” says Dr. Shukla. “The Center will provide community training and host awareness events to help improve area residents’ knowledge about the causes of stroke and how strokes can be prevented.”

Hyatt Place® Houston / Sugar Land announces executive appointment Hotel’s general manager offers 16 years of hospitality experience In anticipation of the November 2010 opening of Hyatt Place Houston/Sugar Land, Woodbine Development Corporation announced the appointment of Michael Gleeson as general manager.

Gleeson brings 16 years of hospitality experience to this new role, having previously worked in several general manager positions, including his most recent role as the district general manager for Hyatt Place Fort Worth/ Hurst.

Gleeson will be directly responsible for overseeingthe day-to-day operations of the hotel, including managing the hotel’s staff members and ensuring guests experience the purposeful service for which Hyatt Place is known.

“We are looking forward to welcoming Hyatt Place Houston/Sugar Land to the area, especially with such a great management team in place. Gleeson offers substantial industry and Hyatt Place brand knowledge, as well as specific hospitality experience in the Texas market, which we believe will be a key fac-

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

tor to the success of this property,” said King Scovell, Woodbine’s director of development ventures with Hyatt.

Hyatt Place Houston/Sugar Land will be located at the 190-acre Lake Pointe Town Center and will offer 214 guest rooms.

Gleeson and his family are residents of Greatwood.

A recent reception at the Post Oak Grille in Lake Pointe Town Center served as a Fort Bend “Hello” for Michael Gleeson, General Manager of the Hyatt Place Sugar Land. City elected officials and other community leaders greeted him and his wife at the hors d’oeuvres and cocktail affair. (l-r) Tracy and Michael Gleeson, SVP Managing Director Richard Gordon with Hyatt Hotels, and Sugar Land’s Director of Economic Development Regina Morales.

Submit Newsworthy items to editor_fbbj@fortbendstar.com

Michael B. Hurdle wins 2010 H.D. Vest Advisors keynote contest

Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Emergency Center recognized TEAMHealth, one of the nation’s largest providers of hospital-based clini-

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

Fort Bend man gets distinguished public service award from Houston CPA Society

Outgoing Houston CPA Society President Kathy Ploch, CPA, (center), Zientek & Co., west Houston, recently presented the Houston CPA Society’s Distinguished Public Service award to Billy M. Atkinson, Jr., CPA, Fort Bend, PricewaterhouseCoopers, and an Honorary Life Membership to Patrick L. Durio, CPA, Durio & Co. of Bellaire. Both men are former Society presidents who have remained active in the profession. Atkinson is currently the president of National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA). The 8,700-member Houston CPA Society is the third largest “local” organization of Certified Public Accountants in the country.

cal outsourcing, recently chose Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital Emergency Center from among hundreds nationwide as one of its top-performing emergency centers.

“We are honored to be recognized for the quality of care that we provide,” said Jin Kim, M.D., director of the emergency center.

“It reflects the tremendous effort by our team of physicians, nurses and administrators to provide the best care for all of our patients.”

Recognition is based on patient satisfaction, timeliness, core measure compliance, community reputation, growth, staff engagement / teamwork and physician and nursing leadership.

For more information on Memorial Hermann Sugar Land, visit www.memorialhermann.org or call 281.725.5000.

At the 24th H.D. Vest National Conference, Michael Hurdle delivered the winning keynote address to an audience of 900 H.D. Vest Advisors as part of the 2010 Advisor Michael B. Hurdle Keynote Contest. In addition to earning the respect and admiration of his peers, Hurdle will receive a one-year speaking contract with Financial Forum, Inc. and the opportunity to be published in a financial planning book. Hurdle has been an Advisor with H.D. Vest since 2006 and has been the principal at Blomstrom Hurdle Associates, LLC in Houston since 2007. He ranks in the top 75 of H. D. Vest Advisors nationally and has been recognized with the “Pacesetter” Outstanding Advisor Award in 2008, 2009 and 2010. He is a resident of Pecan Grove in Richmond.

Dr. Maffet joins Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas Sports medicine surgeon Dr. Mark Maffet specializes in knee and shoulder arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. He is certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgeons and Mark Maffet has served as team physician for Houston Baptist University for 15 years, as well as many Houston area school districts.

He previously served as team physician for the Houston Comets and Houston Thunderbears.

“My focus on sports medicine fits perfectly with the culture and history of MOST, and I am looking forward to being part of the team.”

Dr. Maffet graduated from Baylor College of Medicine and performed his internship and residency at Baylor as well. He also completed

a fellowship in sports medicine at the prestigious Kerlan-Jobe Orthopedic Clinic in Los Angeles before returning to Houston to begin his practice.

“His background treating athletes of all types – from elite professionals to ‘weekend warriors’ – will be a tremendous asset to us,” said Dr. Timothy Sitter of MOST. Methodist Orthopaedic Specialists of Texas features one of the largest groups of board-certified and fellowship-trained specialists in Sugar Land. MOST physicians provide general and sports-related orthopedic care, including sub-specialties in hand and upper extremity, foot and ankle, sports medicine, total joint replacement and diseases and deformities of the spine.

Dr. Maffet, or any of the MOST physicians, can be called at 281-494-MOST (6678).

September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

51

NEWSWORTHY Crystal Lake Estates re-opens with new developer Boutique acreage community re-opens along Richmond’s 359 corridor Crystal Lake Estates, a gated, boutique acreage community of wooded lots with numerous amenities for residents, has re-opened under the management of NewFirst National Bank. Located just east of FM 723 on FM 359, Crystal Lake Estates features lots from the 90’s.

The gated community features a beautiful lake, large hardwood trees, a community center, planned community park, fountain and more.

Under the direction of NewFirst, repairs to landscaping, fixtures, and the water system will all be completed within the next 60 days. Future residents can bring their own builder or choose from

one of the approved builders in the community, Campbell Garrett Distinctive Homes and Estates, Sagewood Homes, and Steve Fuqua Homes.

Crystal Lake Estates sits less than half a mile off of FM 359 on Bob White Dr. and enjoys a tax rate of only 1.7%. Residents of Crystal Lake Estates are served by the acclaimed Lamar Consolidated ISD and school children will attend Frost Elementary, Wertheimer Middle, Briscoe Jr. High, and Foster High School. Crystal Lake Estates is open from 10:00 – 7:00 Thursday through Monday.

For more information, visit www.crystallakeestates.com.

Gulf Coast Medical Foundation provides $25,000 to feed Fort Bend Seniors Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels announced Gulf Coast Medical Foundation has provided funds of $25,000, which will provide support for the Meals on Wheels Program for seniors citizens in Fort Bend County.

“Having nutritious meals every day helps keep the seniors healthier, which benefits the seniors and all taxpayers in Fort Bend County and in Texas. According to Commissioner Todd Staples, for every senior citizen we provide meals saves taxpayers $30,000 a year, per senior served.

The funds from Gulf Coast Medical Foundation will assist in our continuing our mission throughout the year,” said Manuela Arroyos, chief executive officer, Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels.

The Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels program allows seniors to stay in their homes as long as possible, by providing nutritious meals, programs and services.

52

Many senior citizens in Fort Bend are struggling to make ends meet due to the rising costs of utilities, healthcare, and basic daily living necessities. By providing meals to these seniors, they are able to remain in their homes.

“The seniors on our programs have no other resources and depend solely on the Meals on Wheels Program,” Arroyos said.

Those interested in providing a meal or meals to senior citizens in our community, or if you would like to volunteer a couple of hours a week or month to deliver meals to shut-in seniors, Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels welcomes your call. Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels, a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization, has been providing meals to seniors for over 35 years.

Today, the agency provides meals to over 1,000 senior citizens each day throughout Fort Bend and Waller Counties.

For more information, visit www.fortbendseniors.org or call 281-633-7057.

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

Fort Bend Symphony provides reason for office socials with 2010-2011 season The Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra provides another reason for an office social with the announcement of its 2010-2011 season.

A liberal dose of pops music and fun activities, plus a limited-time offer of buy-oneget-one-free, furnish an excellent reason to get together and can even serve as a pre-party gathering. Season tickets are now on sale for this entertaining series designed to engage young and old alike.

Hauntcert on Oct. 17, 2010 Enjoy Halloween tunes and lots of treats including a Halloween costume contest for all ages.

Deck the Halls on Dec. 5, 2010 Capture the magic of the season with all your favorite tunes and a visit by a jolly old man.

Viva Italia! on Feb. 20, 2011 Enjoy a veritable fiesta of Italian music that will have you dreaming of gondola rides and more!

Special Spring Concert on March 26, 2011 Enjoy an intimate evening of music from some of the world’s greatest classical composers.

Night at the Movies on May 22, 2011 From drama to horror to comedy, you’ll enjoy wonderful songs from the world’s greatest movies.

All concerts are at the Stafford Centre, except the one on March 26. It will be held at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church in Katy.

Season Ticket Information Tickets for the five concert 2010-2011 series are priced at $50, $70 and $100 and are available at fbso.org or by calling 281.276.9642. Discounts are provided for seniors over 55, military with I.D., and students. Children 12 and under are free, but must have reserved seats. For a limited time, the FBSO is offering buy-one-get-one free to make an office social even more affordable.

Submit Newsworthy items to editor_fbbj@fortbendstar.com

Grand Opening of Missouri City Annex Fort Bend County leaders invited residents to a grand opening of the new Missouri City Annex on August 21.

The new annex, located at 307 Texas Parkway (FM 2234) in Missouri City, is a symbol of progress, growth and concern among county leadership for Missouri City and Fort Bend county citizens.

The two-story building houses several key county departments and offices: County Clerk, Tax Assessor Collector, Social Services, Indigent Health, Veteran Services and

LCISD Trustees approve Director of Staff Development and McNeill Asst. Principal At its regular August meeting, the Lamar CISD Board of Trustees approved Kathy Mathison as the District’s Director of Staff Development. She has a bachelor’s in Education Kathy Mathison from Sam Houston State University. She earned her master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from Houston Baptist University.

Mathison has 30 years of experience in education, including six years of admin- Toron Wooldridge istrative experience in Fort Bend ISD, most recently as the Coordinator for Organizational Development.

Toron Wooldridge is the new assistant principal for McNeill Elementary. He graduated from Texas A&M University with his bachelor’s in Agriculture and earned his master’s in Educational Administration from Prairie View A&M University.

Wooldridge has five years of teaching experience in Houston ISD.

A grand opening for a new annex: Grand opening activities were held August 21. The new building houses several key county departments and a host of medical services for area residents.

the county’s Clinical Health Department, which provides low-cost immunizations for children through age eighteen. The Fort Bend Family Health Center, a local, nonprofit community health organization, will operate an Adult and Pediatric Clinic and offer annual check-ups, sick visits, and prenatal services.

“We are delighted that Fort Bend County voters supported the construction of this larger, newer annex to serve some of the most critical needs of our residents,” says Precinct Two County Commissioner Grady Prestage. “The public health facility, in particular, will make a difference in the quality of life for area citizens.”

Sugar Land Strengthens Direct Communications with Citizens “Sugar Land Responds” is a new online resource that will be utilized to communicate directly with citizens during emergencies.

Funded with a homeland security grant, www.sugarlandresponds.com is hosted offsite, with backup servers located throughout the country.

The new resource will include important instructions for citizens, including information on preparedness, response and recovery efforts.

“As we enter the 2010 hurricane season, www.sugarlandresponds.com will be an important communications tool for our citizens,” said Director of Emergency Management Pat Hughes.

The platform utilized to support www. sugarlandtx.gov is widely used throughout the nation by agencies that include the U.S. Coast Guard and FEMA. It will be one of many important tools utilized to communicate directly with citizens.

Another important communications resource is the City’s Connect CTY system, a state-of-the-art emergency notification system to quickly communicate with citizens by residential, business or cell phone; e-mail; text message; or devices for the hearing and speech impaired.

The system allows citizens to register unlisted numbers for emergency contact at www.sugarlandtx.gov or www.sugarlandresponds.com.

Citizens who need Jimmy Thompson special assistance during emergencies - including elderly and those with disabilities or health care concerns are encouraged to register now with the Texas Information and Referral Service, also known as 2-1-1. It is easy: dial 2-1-1 (or 877-541-7905 for the deaf ) to be listed on the assistance/evacuation registry.

“You must register in advance of an emergency,” said Hughes. “Do not wait until a hurricane is imminent to register.”

Once registered, staff and volunteers from the City of Sugar Land Emergency Phone Bank (281-275-2700) will call those on the list to check on their welfare.

In case of an evacuation, transportation will be provided.

The state 211 data base is purged annually at the end of January, so it’s important that citizens register for the list each year. For more information on preparedness, visit www.sugarlandreponds. com.

September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

53

Banks

To Be Listed Call

SERVICE DIRECTORY

281-690-4201

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

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

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

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

AAA approved auto repair.

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

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

Custom painting & pin stripping. Honest service.

79 Years Strong and 3 Generations Proud!

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

First Tire & Automotive 281-313-2886 www.firsttireandauto.com Craig Popp, owner, 3 Sugar Land Locations.

960 Eldridge, 281-313-2886 & 2303 Williams Trace Blvd. 281-980-2666 (First Colony), 20015 Southwest Freeway. 281-343-5666 (Greatwood), Diagnostic testing and evaluation, Manufacturer’s routine recommended maintenance, domestic and foreign vehicle repairs, AAA approved, ASE certified.

Ask about our Fleet Service!

54

Founders Bank 281-325-5000 www.foundersbanktx.com Email: customerservice@foundersbanktx.com.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

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

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

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

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

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

2515 Ave. H, Rosenberg, Texas 77471. 281-341-5060, Fax 281-341-5558.

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

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

Fort Bend Focus - 281-690-4242

Pharmacies

Staffing / Recruiting / Job Seeking

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

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

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

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

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

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

All services available in Houston and surrounding counties.)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Residential real estate sales & corporate relocation.

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

Janet Williams, Realtor – 832.724.4894 Realm Real Estate Professional www.har.com/jlwilliams janetw4co@yahoo.com 14090 Southwest Frwy, Ste 102. Sugar Land, TX 77478, It’s a great time to buy a HUD foreclosure with FHA financing because you just pay $100 down payment + closing cost.

Call for details. Providing services for buyers, sellers, renters. Also specialize in short sales for residential and commercial.

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

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

Help people find your business here!

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

September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

55

SERVICE DIRECTORY

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

Del Webb Sweetgrass brings resort-style living for nearly 3,000 new residents The first project in the Greater Houston area

By Sharon K. Wallingford

S

ome 530 acres of sloping ranch land in West Fort Bend county are being sculpted into Del Webb Sweetgrass, a neighborhood planned for residents age 55 and better who are looking for a resort-style community with an unparalleled facilitated lifestyle. In the near future expect to see the rise of rooftops of 1,500 ranch style single-family homes from 1,100-square-feet to 2,400-square-feet in a range of $150,000-$250,000. They will be surrounded and diverted by planned water features and a 50-acre lake. In addition, the acreage will support 3.8 miles in walking trails, a 28,000-square-foot clubhouse, complete with fitness, an amphitheater for concerts, both indoor and outdoor pools, bocce ball and tennis. The custom development when completed is expected to add 2,1002,800 new residents to the quaint, historic city of Richmond.

Although a grand opening is not expected until 2011, a sales office is under construction on the premises located at US 59 and FM 762 and is expected to be completed within the next two months.

Del Webb is developing the property in partnership with Houston-based Caldwell Companies.

Del Webb is owned by PulteGroup Inc. whose brand names also include Todd Johnson Pulte Homes and Centex Homes.

“Caldwell Companies thrives on building communities, not just neighborhoods,” says Todd Johnson, project manager. “During the acquisition of the land, Caldwells’ Peter Barnhart was approached by Pulte Homes about the possibility of using the land for a Del Webb community. The Caldwell’s development team’s consummate desire to cre-

56

ate communities fit perfect with the concept of Del Webb and a partnership was formed with the Pulte Group.”

Johnson notes, “Caldwell Companies and Del Webb Peter Barnhart both bring a wealth of experience in building communities. Caldwell with its expertise in the surrounding Houston area with communities such as Rock Creek, Towne Lake, and Spring Creek Ranch, and Del Webb with its 50 years of experience in active adult communities across the country created the perfect synergy to bring this experience 50 years experience to Richmond, the first Del Webb in the greater Houston area.”

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

Why Del Webb Sweetgrass? “The name imparts the community’s place within Fort Bend county,” says Jim Rorison, division president of the Houston market for Jim Rorison PulteGroup, Inc. “The community is named after a native grass that implies a design that will allow the community and our resident’s to blend in to the bucolic surroundings with an invigorating lifestyle that is deserving of active adults ready for play!

“We are incorporating the natural beauty of the Richmond area, adding significant water features, while benefiting from the many cultural, educational and medical ser-

vices that both Richmond and Houston have to offer.”

“We chose the location due to its proximity to dining, places of worship, golf, shopping and nearby family and historic destinations,” he adds. “The residents will have easy access to everything that Richmond, Sugar Land and everything the entire county has to offer.”

Caldwell Companies purchased the land about five years ago, and as the developer, has been working with city and county officials to turn the property into a valuable asset for the community. Together, with city officials they have completed the task of installing water, sewer, drainage, and paving for Phase 1 of the project (about 200 lots out of the ultimate

1,500 lots).

Currently the FM 762 landscaping and entry feature is 85 percent complete, says Johnson. As the developer, Caldwell is also responsible for establishing the municipal utility district, working with Pulte on the creation of the Homeowners Association, coordinating utility services and most importantly developing an environment people call home.

“We expect to begin VIP information sessions in November 2010,” says Rorison.

“These sessions will educate potential residents about the Del Webb facilitated lifestyle, what the community will have to offer and provide for priority placement for the first home site release.” To become a founding

resident, participation in an information session is required. Interested persons can sign a priority listing at www.delwebb.com. Sales are expected to begin during the First Quarter of 2011 with homeowners taking residence in the summer of 2011.

“Each home is Energy Star certified,” adds Rorison. “Our building science practices will give residents the latest in energy efficient operations.”

Johnson adds the community irrigation system is being master-planned by an architect to ensure the construction of the most efficient water system technology allows. “We have planned a water wise system that incorporates ‘re-use’ water sources such as on-site lake water and treated effluent water. The system is anchored by a structure of lakes that catch run-off water as the primary source.”

Included is a control system that is able to monitor water flow to detect line breaks and rain fall. “We are also incorporating natural open spaces with native grasses and plants that use less water and need fewer chemicals.”

The Caldwell Companies goal is to build a rich, community environment that compliments the area. “Fort Bend is thriving right now – and many people are moving to the area causing a large demand for new developments and neighborhoods. A community specifically for active adults, however, is missing in this area. The Del Webb community should fill this niche,” adds Barnhart, Caldwell Companies land development partner.

“We will have the most comprehensive lifestyle programming for the most discriminating active adult led by a full time, on site, Lifestyle Director,” explains Rorison. “We expect to have over 60 operating clubs catering to your every hobby or activity. We will leverage an amenity area complete with a 28,000-square- foot facility inclusive of an indoor pool, aerobics facility and a state-ofthe-art fitness area. The outdoor area will include an outdoor pool, tennis and fishing, among other amenities.

The trail system is designed to allow residents to customize their walks for a variety of lengths while taking advantage of the awesome scenery and water features.

“Our design concepts provide for curvilinear streets, abundant cul-de-sacs and meandering thorough fares that provide the opportunity to showcase the natural landscaping,” adds Rorison. “The end result will be a community that will support the casual enjoyment that active adults have earned.”

September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

57

There’s a lot brewing with this Katy family

By Wayne Chandler

L

abel…we don’t need no stinkin’ label.

That phrase on the No Label Brewing Company’s website tells you a lot about the humor, spunk and confidence which a genial Katy family has as it starts its own microbrewery. It’s the first microbrewery in the Katy area, and likely to be the only one of three in the entire Greater Houston area for years to come.

Brian and Jennifer Royo, and Brian’s parents Gilberto and Melanie , are expecting final licensing by the time you read this article.

No Label Brewing Company, from a fun-loving family with roots in both Panama and Texas, has moved out of a

garage and into a vacant rice-drying silo on First Street in Katy. It’s a bit tricky getting to this location, but beer lovers are finding it every Saturday at noon where the Royos are happy to let you sample what is on tap.

How did the name come about? Brian says, “The name was a filler name until we thought we had something better. Well, we never thought of anything better and the name fits us well. So when it came time to sign papers we signed No Label Brewing Co., and the rest is history. For other stories…well, you’ll have to come to the brewery to find out.”

Brian, an engineer, and Jennifer, a business management major, met while getting their degrees at University of Houston, and married three years ago.

Brian first started brewing up beer with his roommate in college. Then, two years

Brian and Jennifer Royo.

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

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

58

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

ago some friends gave him a home brewing kit for Christmas.

Jennifer said Brian’s beer was excellent.

They bought more equipment and the beers were so good that “we decided to take the plunge to open our own brewery,” she said.

The couple visited the owners of the other two area microbreweries, St. Arnold’s, now located in downtown Houston in its 17th year, and Southern Star Brewery in Conroe, just in its third year, and were encouraged by both predecessors.

“We’re surprised that there haven’t been more microbreweries for a place as big as Houston,” Jennifer said. “The demand is definitely here.”

Brock Wagner, owner of St. Arnold’s agrees. He attributes the popularity of microbreweries to young persons who have enjoyed the variety of flavors which are being crafted.

Brian has started with what No Label calls four flagship beers which will be available year round: “Ridgeback Ale”, a dark American amber; “El Hefe” a German light body wheat beer; “ Pale Horse”, a pale ale brewed with whole hops, and “Silo Ale,” a crisp blonde ale. He plans two initial offerings this Fall, one a Rye Oktoberfest, and a winter stout.

Brian, the head brewer, and Jennifer, the marketing manager, have attended a national brewery conference in Chicago and a Texas brewery conference in Kerrville this year as they plan ahead. They’re brewing from a half-barrel unit now, but soon will purchase a 15-barrel unit. (There are 31 ½ gallons in one barrel).

The Royos expect to be in full swing by year’s end, but currently Brian still is a fulltime project manager for a construction company. Brian’s father, Gilberto, a geologist who, with his wife Melanie, came from Panama to Katy in 1973, still is a consultant for a major oil firm. Gilberto, president of NLBC, and Melanie, the treasurer, have funded the company thus far.

Gilberto said that they may be looking for a small business loan or invite investors in the near future.

To find the brewery, take I-10 to the Pin Oak Road exit and north to Highway 90, then right to a dirt road. NLBC is hiding behind these big silos. For more information go to www.nolabelbrew.com.

Cheers!

KOLBE CURTICE... continued from page 38

The population and income that made our market attractive to retailers and business owners for so many years are not only still in place, but continue to improve every year. Commercial properties that are visible, accessible and are well located to serve strong Ft Bend demographics, continue to see strong leasing demand and have held value. On the other hand, properties which were built without regard for development fundamentals (location/visibility/access/ etc) are the ones that have seen declining occupancy and rental rates resulting in the related drops in value. In most cases, however, those drops in value have not yet been recognized.

A buzz phrase that has circulated the commercial real estate industry over the past year or so is “lend and pretend”. That refers to the perceived practice by banks and commercial mortgage companies to ignore the difficulties that a number of properties in their loan portfolio are experiencing. In those cases, financing is extended rather than the lender acknowledging fundamental problems with the property and taking appropriate action. That action may involve having the existing property owner pay down the financing to realistic value levels so that the rental rates that can be obtained will be sufficient to pay the debt service. In cases where the property owner is unable to pay down the loan, the bank will need to be willing to accept losses and “write off” the excess value of the property. The properties can then be sold and re-financed at the lower values with rental income streams sufficient to service the debt.

In the examples described above, lenders are “pretending” that the properties don’t have inherent problems (poor location, visibility, access, etc.) and are hoping that as the economy strengthens, they will see stronger leasing activity and the owners will then be able to support the project’s debt service. In many cases, however, that will not happen and the lenders really are merely “pretending”. Although it exposes these fundamental problems, a weaker economy is not the reason the properties are distressed. The initial disregard by both the developer and the lender for basic property fundamentals such as the surrounding population, income levels, property exposure, access, etc., have

made it difficult for the properties to ever be successful until re-valued and re-priced. At some point the problems will be acknowledged by the lenders and the properties will be foreclosed and re-priced at levels that will make them viable for both investors and potential tenants. Although the re-pricing will create new opportunities for investors, I think that in most cases these properties will still not offer some of the best opportunities.

Although pricing and valuation may have been corrected, they still will possess the weak fundamentals and demographics that created the problems for the properties in the first place. As a result, the “upside potential” on these properties will be limited.

In my opinion, the best investment opportunities are properties with solid fundamentals... strong demographics, good exposure, easy access, etc., yet still may offer opportunities to add value (with increased occupancy and rental rates) by remodeling and making property improvements, putting stronger management in place, improving the services offered to tenants, etc..

Opportunities to find and/or purchase these types of properties, however, are extremely rare in stronger markets like Fort Bend. I feel that other strong opportunities are available, however, with properties which, although they may be priced closer to “real market” value, are well located with strong surrounding demographics. Those demographics mitigate the risk of the property losing value, and, as they continue to improve, will offer the opportunity to obtain higher rental rates, stronger tenants, etc..

Although financing opportunities for commercial properties have contracted significantly since the economic collapse a couple of years ago, the capital markets are slowly beginning to see improvement.

We are beginning to see more closings and financing sources available for stable properties.

Feel free to contact me for more information on commercial property acquisition or disposal in the current market.

Kolbe M. Curtice is a licensed Texas real estate broker. He is the Managing Director of Colliers International - Fort Bend, a full service commercial brokerage company located in Sugar Land Town Square. He can be reached at 281-494-4769.

September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

59

Colonial Lakes Office Park 4501 Cartwright Road, Missouri City, TX 77459

Office suites for sale or lease: he Colonial architecture sits stately among landscaped walkways and lush courtyards.

Shade trees, plants, flowers and open-air seating flank the fountain courtyard and central putting green courtyard.

T

• 49,500 Sq. Ft. of professional office condominiums • Suite sizes from 765 to 1,530 Sq. Ft. and up • 100% finished out and ready to move in • 10 foot ceilings, crown moldings, granite kitchens, stainless appliances, private baths • Across street from Fort Bend Family YMCA • Fountain courtyard, landscaped walkways • Only minutes from Riverstone and Sienna Plantation For more information or to schedule an appointment contact: • Suites for sale starting at $128,000

SHANNON WORK

713.851.3628 Real Estate Development and Investments

shannonwork@comcast.net

www.WorkOrganization.com

ALAN SANDERSEN... continued from page 36

There is a website available at www.501exempt.com that allows for searches of nonprofits on the IRS at-risk list by name and also by state, city, and county as well as by zip code and radius.

Surprisingly, there are over 320,000 organizations nationwide that the IRS has identified as at risk of having this automatic revocation.

The list includes a wide variety of entities such as college high school and fraternal organization scholarship funds, organizations supporting various causes such as research or social causes, PTO’s and booster clubs, fraternal organizations, and many others. Here are some local numbers.

Harris County......................................4,321 Houston..............................................3,519 Fort Bend County..................................521 Galveston...............................................144 Galveston County..................................386 Missouri City..........................................128 Montgomery County.............................274 Sugar Land............................................118 Brazoria County.....................................250 Richmond................................................51 Rosenberg...............................................20 To find out if a particular nonprofit is at risk, go to www.501exempt.com and search or browse for your organization.

Alan Sandersen is a columnist for the Fort Bend Business Journal and partner Sandersen Knox & Co, L.L.P., Certified Public Accountants.

He can be reached at 281-242-3232. www.sktx. com. H

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

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

60

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

AURA Restaurant Chef/Owner Frédéric Perrier brings over 30 years experience to his newest venture - AURA. In an upscale yet casually comfortable setting, Innovative American Cuisine reigns and is highlighted in the numerous Daily Specials.

AURA features only the finest, freshest ingredients. From Lunch Salads & Sandwiches to Dinner with Crabcakes and Filet Au Poivre to Diver Sea Scallops with Boneless Braised Short Rib ‘Surf & Turf’ appetizers and Farm Raised Chilean Sea Bass. No need to go to Houston or into Sugar Land for truly high quality dining experience... you will easily find it at AURA (without ‘Big Restaurant’ prices!) at Township Square - Missouri City. Lunch Mon-Sat 112. Dinner Mon-Thurs 5-9 and Fri-Sat 5-10. Please call for Reservations &/or Catering ~ 3400 FM 1092, 81-403-AURA (2872). $$ • WB

FOOD DRINK ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE FOOD REVIEW: PETE & SHORTY’S Pete & Shorty’s Pete & Shorty’s, a restaurant that recently opened in the Sugar Land area, may remind you of just such a place has a full bar with special pricing on drinks all day, every day. Test the “cold beer” boast for yourself, with a Frozen Schooner of 20 ounces of your favorite brand for just $2.75, it offers is not trendy or transitory, but rather, venerable and traditional: good food at reasonable prices, served by friendly, decent people. It may not be rocket science, but Pete & Shorty shows us that creating a place where people really want to be is a science all in itself.

Pete & Shorty’s- 16549 Southwest Freeway • Sugar Land, TX 77479 Parking - parking lot What to Wear - business to casual Reservations - available but not required Seating - full bar as well as restaurant Price - $$ WHERE TO EAT NOW The following is a list of exceptional restaurants throughout in Fort Bend County & Katy Area. Prices reflect the average cost of a three-course dinner for one person, excluding drinks, tax and tip. $$$$=Very Expensive ($60 & Up) $$$=Expensive ($40-$60) $$=Moderate ($20-$40) $=Inexpensive (Under $20) FB=Full Bar WB=Serves Wine & Beer

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 Charlie’s Restaurants and Catering, Poboys and Grill Two locations in Fort Bend. Cajun home cooked food. The “special” plate is a favorite with a choice of one meat, two sides and a roll. The meat choices range from brisket, sausage, and meat loaf, to baked chicken, turkey/dressing, ham, salisbury steak and spaghetti/meatballs. Home made desserts are a favorite feature. Catering is available for large to small functions, banquets, corporate or organization luncheons/dinners. 4719 Lexington @ Dulles, 281499-0808 and 1250 Texas Parkway, 281-499-2233. $ Chef for You Offers take out dinners prepared from scratch by professional chefs. Online ordering; Customized Catering Menus Available; Corporate Catering for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. Homemade Cakes, Cookies, and Brownies; Soups and Salads. New menus offered each week at www.chef4u.net • 9920 Highway 90-A, Suite B-260, Sugar Land • 281-313-CHEF (2433). $ Fernando’s Latin Cuisine We are pleased to announce the arrival of Fernando’s Latin Cuisine-An exotic culinary adventure! Started by, Fernando Echeverria, the same owner of Los Andes by the Compact Center in Houston-Another wonderful Latin American restaurant. Fernando’s Latin Cuisine is located in the same building where Ruth’s Chris used to be. Featured dishes include Empanadas appetizer, Fileton, (Filet mignon) and Asada Y Camarones, Casually called the surf and turf. 14135 Southwest Freeway, in Sugar Land.

281-494-9087. wwww.fernandosrestaurants.com. $$ • FB Hickory Barn BAR-B-Q The Kiddy Brothers came to Houston with great BBQ on their minds.

The first BBQ restaurant opened in 1953. Since then the family owned and operated business has been serving up great BBQ. Although times have changed, our idea of great BBQ hasn’t. Come by and see us. Catering available. • 11534 Wilcrest @ W. Belfort. 281-530-9382. $ continues...

September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

61

Incredible Pizza Company All-You-Can-Eat Buffet is Made Fresh, From Scratch, Every Day. Enjoy 30 varieties of Pizza, 3 Styles of Pizza Crust, Meatballs & Spaghetti, Piping Hot Baked Potatoes with All the Toppings, Soups, Fresh Pasta with a Choice of Sauces, a Salad Bar Featuring Over 80 Items Including 9 Different Homemade Salad Dressings, and Desserts. Pies, Cobblers, Bread Pudding, Cinnamon Rolls, Ice Cream, Cookies & Much More for only $6.99 per person. Corporate Events, Team Building, Lock-ins, Birthday Parties, and Every Day Fun! In addition to the Incredible Food, the 20,000 Square Feet of Play Space is a Blast for Kids and Kids at Heart. www.ipcsugarland.com Open Sunday-Thursday 11am-9pm, Friday & Saturday 11am-10pm, 3412 Highway 6 South @ Williams Trace, 281-313-0631. $ J & L Café Homestyle Cookin’ like Grandma used to make! Joy Smith and Paul Jordan are back, and they’re cooking up a delightful assortment of homemade dishes to satisfy the heartiest of appetites.

Since they opened their new restaurant, they’ve been serving up family recipes handed down for 3 generations. Stop by J & L Café and enjoy Chicken and Dumplings, Smothered Oxtails, Meatloaf, Ribs, Fried Catfish, Roast Beef, Mashed Potatoes, Okra, and Cornbread Dressing, to name just a few menu items and daily specials. The assortment of Desserts includes Peach Cobbler, Cheesecake and Banana Pudding, all guaranteed to make your taste buds smile!

Joy Smith, co-proprietor, worked as Personal Chef to Former Houston Juneor Lee Brown for many years. Whole Cornish Hens are available on Sundays. Breakfast served Tuesday-Saturday 6-9am, Open for Lunch and Dinner Tuesday-Sunday, Closed Mondays. 1110 FM 2234 on the border of Stafford & Missouri City. 281499-9895. $ Karl’s At The Riverbend Romantic Dining in the Country, across the creek from a horse farm. Swiss Chef Karl Camenzind’s menu features Angus steaks, Prime Rib, Wienerschnitzel, Trout Almondine and other fresh fish, Rack of Lamb, Steak and other wild game, Atkins specials, a budget weeknight menu offered along with the regular menu, plus a wonderful Sunday Brunch Buffet. Company Luncheons and Rehearsal Dinners invited. Open Tues-Sat for Dinner and Sunday Brunch 5011 FM 723 Richmond 281-238-9300 www.karlsrb.com Read our reviews at www.b4-u-eat. com. $$ • FB Las Haciendas Mexican Bar & Grill Santos Escobar and his brother Ascension Escobar serve up dozens of heaping traditional gourmet Mexican plates. Lunch Specials run weekdays from 11am - 3pm. Great margaritas, fajitas and much more. Catering available as well as a party room for private parties. • 12821 Southwest Freeway. 281-240-3060. $ • FB Lupitas Mexican Restaurant Jaime and Lupe Garcia have lived in Fort Bend for 36 years. Twenty-three of those years have been spent in the restaurant business. If you want authentic Mexican food made from only the freshest ingredients and at a reasonable price, go to Lupitas Mexican Restaurant formerly Pico De Gallo Mexican Restaurant.

The Garcias continually concentrate on customer satisfaction. That includes the quality and freshness of their food as well as the family atmosphere of their restaurant. Dine-In, Take-out, and Catering available. 3121 Highway 6, Sugar Land • Call 281-265-6556. $ • WB

62

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

Mangola’s Fine Italian Restaurant Serving fine Italian food to Southwest Houston and Fort Bend Country for more than 20 years. Conveniently located at 11786 S. Wilcrest @ Highway 59 S. Open for Lunch and Dinner 7 Days a week. Check out our website www. mangolasrestaurant.com. Call 281-498-6790 for reservations or to schedule your special event.

Mantra Fine Indian Cuisine Discover India with exotic spices and aromatic flavors that will awaken your taste buds and lift you off your feet, we will make you feel like royalty. Mantra Fine Indian Cuisine offers Lunch Buffet and To-Go lunch options, that’s in your budget and leave you to come back for more. Mantra caters to all from spicy hot to mild flavors. We prepare our meals fresh and offer a wide selection of healthy choices. We have full menu and full bar and you can enjoy the evening out on our patio with your family or friends. Mantra also offers special catering promotions for parties and formal functions or any event any size, host in our restaurant or choosing of your choice. Hours of Operation: Monday through Thursday, Friday to Sunday, Lunch: 11a.m. to 2:30p.m. Lunch: 11a.m. to 2:30p.m. Dinner: 5:30pm to 10p.m. Dinner: 5:30pm to 11p.m.Come visit us at 15295 Southwest Freeway off of Williams Trace exit. For more information, contact us at 281-325-0071 or visit www.mantraofsugarland.com. $$ • FB Old Hickory Inn Barbecue More than 40 years in business in the Houston and Fort Bend area, Old Hickory Inn Barbecue is famous for their Old Fashion Hickory Smoked Barbecue and numerous Homemade Side Dishes, made fresh daily. They are available to cater your next event, for up to 3000 guests. In addition to great Barbecue, they make an awesome Gyro (Greek wrap featuring beef & lamb), and feature fruit cobbler, cream pies, rice pudding and cheesecake for dessert A casual dining experience in 3 convenient locations, with a drive-through window at the Highway 6 location. Open 7 days a week, Sunday-Thursday from 11am-9pm, and Friday & Saturday 11am-9:30pm. 3334 F.M. 1092 @ Hwy 6 Missouri City 281-499-8904 / 8000 Hwy 6 @ Beechnut 281-983-5020 / 5427 S. Braeswood @ Chimney Rock 713-723-8908. $ • WB Outback Steakhouse Inspired by Australia’s spirit of adventure, Outback Steakhouse has been an innovator in the culinary world by creating big, bold flavors using only the freshest ingredients. Voted #1 Best Steak in the 2009 Zagat Survey of National Full-Service Restaurant chains, Outback’s mission is to provide high quality fresh dishes at affordable prices. Explore Outback’s new menu with 15 meals under $15 including new choices, classic favorites and down under prices starting at $9.95. Our favorites include the Bloomin’ Onion®, Outback Special Sirloin with Grilled Shrimp on the Barbie, Honey Dijon Chicken with Sweet Potato Fries and much more! The local Proprietor is Anthony Antonidis.

Open Mon.- Thur. 4-10 pm, Fri. 4-11 pm, Sat. 3-11 pm, Sun 11 am-9:30 pm.

Located at 15253 Southwest Freeway, (Off Highway 59 and Williams Trace Exit) in Sugar Land, Texas. 281-980-4329. $ FB Panda Garden Panda Garden Restaurant, the three times winner for Best Oriental Restaurant in Fort Bend County, located at 3563 Highway 6 in Kroger Center, provides a warm, casual environment to best service all diners. The goal of our restaurant is to offer 100% satisfactory to the customers with

variety selection of popular Hunan Cuisine. “We offer fresh, made from scratch meals that is unforgettably delicious!” Manager Kenny adds. The restaurant offers accommodations for small group meetings and wonderful party tray for catering to the near by businesses and schools. Panda Garden is open 7 days a week on Mon. – Sat.: 11a.m. – 10 p.m. and Sun. 11a.m. – 9:30p.m. Delivery is available everyday with a min. of $15.00 purchase. A lunch special is offered daily as well as the full regular menu offerings. 3563 Hwy 6 @ Williams Trace, 281-265-0303. $ • WB Pappa La Rosa Flying Pizza and Restaurant Pappa La Rosa Flying Pizza and Restaurant is a warm and inviting family owned and operated restaurant where pizza, pasta and subs are available on the menu, with daily specials. Catering, a private party room and birthday packages are also available. Dine in or take out. Open for lunch and dinner Tuesday – Sunday. • 16227 Lexington Boulevard, Sugar Land • Call 281313-3500. $ • WB Post Oak Grill Restaurant & Bar The Rios Family invites you to come and experience the same quality, ambiance and service that you have at the original Post Oak Gill. Join us for a wonderful culinary adventure featuring fine center-cut steaks, chops, fresh seafood, soups, sandwiches, salads, and outstanding wine selection. Open lunch & dinner - Monday-Thursday 11:00-9:00pm, Friday & Saturday 11:00-10:00pm. Happy Hour 3:00-6:00pm. 4524 Highway 6, Sugar Land • Call 281-491-2901. www.postoakgrillsugarland.com $$ • FB

Sandy McGee’s Restaurant & Catering The “BEST” soups, gourmet sandwiches and salads in TEXAS. Casual Dining in Historic Downtown Richmond. Sandy McGee’s has a sterling reputation for “FRESH”. Mon.-Fri. 10am-9pm and Sat.-Sun. 10am-3pm. 314 Morton St., Richmond. 281-344-9393. $ Tacone Flavor Grill Fresh. Fun. Handmade. Unique Environment. Tacone is a Casual Quick Serve Restaurant with gourmet flavor at not so gourmet prices. Rated Best Gourmet Wrap Restaurant by Restaurant and Resorts. This franchise based company from Los Angeles, CA has unique gourmet wraps, hot pannini sandwiches, salads, and smoothies. There is a BBQ Chicken Quesadillas waiting for you at Tacone.

Make your other senses jealous! Sugar Land Town Square, 2228 Texas Drive, Sugar Land, 77479; 281-313-2300, fax: 281-313-2305. www.tacone.com. $ Tornado Burger Home of the famous Spicy Burger. Find out why Houston’s largest newspaper raves about their burgers! Read the review by the Houston Chronicle at: http:// blogs.chron.com/cookstour/archives/2007/09/burgerology.html. They make their burgers with fresh-ground chuck, and even their buns are handmade! The French fries are fresh Idaho potatoes cut right in front of you and fried to order!

They compete with the multinationals with fresh food at low prices and very fast service. Their Philly Cheesesteaks are as good as Pat’s if not better! Open Mon. - Sat. 11am-10pm, Sun. 11am-9pm. Dine-In or Drive-Thru. 505 Murphy Rd (FM 1092) just south of Hwy 90 in Stafford, 281-403-FAST (3278). $

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

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

Call:

281-690-4200 September 2010 • Fort Bend Business Journal

63

Fort Bend’s community tavern Pete & Shorty’s - brings good taste

T

here are tons of little neighborhood taverns in the Midwest where neighbors meet, the drinks are cheap, and the food is surprisingly tasty. Pete & Shorty’s, a restaurant that recently opened in the Sugar Land area, may remind you of just such a place.

Boasting the “coldest beer in town”, Pete & Shorty’s has a full bar with special pricing on drinks all day, every day. Test the “cold beer” boast for yourself, with a Frozen Schooner of 20 ounces of your favorite brand for just $2.75. For cocktail lovers, prices are only $3 for house brands, $4 for

64

call brands, and $5 for premium brand liquors.

Friendly faces and pricing make this a place that encourages regular visits, with its unpretentious surroundings, menu array, and fun entertainment options for the whole family. Kick up your heels and dance with live bands performing every Friday and Saturday night from 9:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m.; or come and enjoy our outdoor patio for those who smoke or enjoy dining under the stars. Reserve seating in our spacious outdoor patio, including a full bar, for your graduation parties, going away parties,

Fort Bend Business Journal • September 2010

birthdays, or just because you want to let loose.

This unassuming, little neighborhood hangout brings a note of grace and comfort to an otherwise crowded field of loud, lookat-me restaurant options. Junebe this quiet confidence stems from the knowledge that what Pete & Shorty’s offers is not trendy or transitory, but rather, venerable and traditional: good food at reasonable prices, served by friendly, decent people. It may not be rocket science, but Pete & Shorty shows us that creating a place where people really want to be is a science all in itself.

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

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

We can help your business.

M

E

M

B

E

R:

Independent Free Papers of America

4655 Techniplex Dr., Suite 300, Stafford TX 77477 • Tel: 281-690-4200

INSIDE BACK

You’ve spent hours on the phone together — and months planning a girl’s get-away.

Now do something else together — schedule a mammogram.

State-of-the-art BreaSt CanCer DiagnoStiCS: Digital Mammography Breast Ultrasound Breast MRI MRI Guided Biopsy Ultrasound Biopsy Stereotactic Biopsy A special thank you to the Fort Bend Junior Service League members who are the faces of our Women’s Health Campaign.

Reminding a friend to schedule a mammogram could save her life. According to The National Cancer Institute, the most effective ways to detect breast cancer early are getting a high-quality screening mammogram and having a clinical breast exam on a regular basis.

You can rest assured that at the Breast Center at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital you and your friend will receive the high-quality mammogram you need. It is the only full-service center of its kind in Fort Bend County that women can rely on for dedicated breast radiology expertise, state-of-the-art technology and compassionate care.

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

LEADING MEDICINE® Spine BreastCenter Center

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

BACK